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Alief Montessori Community School

Staff Handbook 2013-2014

12013 6th Street, Houston, TX 77072

TEL: 281.530.9406 FAX: 281.530.2233

Email: amcs@aliefmontessori.org Website: www.aliefmontessori.org

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Table of Contents

Introduction …………………………………..……………….……. 3 AMCS Mission …………………………………………………….... 3 AMCS History ………………………………………………………. 3 Organization ……………………………………………………….... 4 Employment Policies ……………………………………………… 6 Faculty/Staff Responsibilities …………………………………. 11 Student Arrival /Dismissal Duties……………………………. 12 Library Use ………………………………………………………………12 Staff and Administrative Conduct ………………………….. 18 Volunteer Guidelines……………………………………………….19 Compensation/Benefits …………………………………………. 21 Student Issues ………………………………………………………… 26 Records & Reports ………………………………………………….. 29 Health & Safety …………………...…………………………………. 30 The Environment …………………………………………………….. 32 Materials & Supplies ……………………………………………….. 31 Recommended Reading ………………….………………………. 35

Acknowledgement Forms ……………………….……………….. 37 Statement of Confidentiality Form …………………………… 39

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AMCS Statement of Confidentiality Form

I, the undersigned, agree to the policy of Alief Montessori Community School (AMCS) to keep confidential all information read in documents or heard in conversation that pertains to students and AMCS staff, including school records, student records, memos and files. I will not discuss or dis-close to anyone information obtained by any means during my work in the administrative offices of AMCS.

________________________________ PRINTED NAME

________________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ Date

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INTRODUCTION As an AMCS staff member, you play an essential role in the success of our

school. This handbook provides general information on AMCS and its

employee policies, procedures, services and benefits. While all aspects of

employment at AMCS were attempted to be covered, we cannot

anticipate every situation. All unique situations will be handled on an

individual basis.

The policies and procedures set forth in this Employee Handbook are not a

binding employment contract. This handbook provides general guidelines

only and none of its provisions are contractual in nature. All employment

with AMCS is “AT WILL” Agreement, meaning that employment may be

terminated at any time, with written notice, by either AMCS or the

employee.

This handbook replaces and supersedes all earlier AMCS personnel

practices, policies and guidelines.

AMCS MISSION Alief Montessori Community School strives to provide a diverse

and supportive learning environment where our students develop

a lifelong love of learning and grow to become contributing

members of their society.

AMCS HISTORY

Nancy Lee Chieu founded Alief Montessori Community School (AMCS) as

a private school in the fall of 1981. Her graduate work in Educational

Psychology and related experiences with special needs students became

the basis for her firm belief in Montessori education for young children.

Mrs. Chieu strongly supports Maria Montessori’s belief that: “Education

is to prepare a child for life.” The goal of education at AMCS is always

the formation of the total person, and to help students develop a

lifelong love of learning.

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To better serve the community and ensure the growth of AMCS, the

school became a State of Texas public charter school in 1998 and now

serves children from age 3 through 5th grade. We are located on two

large adjoining campuses.

We are located on two large adjoining campuses with new, state-of the-

art buildings. The school office and primary campus are located at 12013

6th Street and the Elementary Campus is at 4215 H Street. Our school

serves about 250 students in 10 classrooms with natural light from many

windows, a garden for each classroom, a library, playgrounds and a

wetland nature area. We are one of the few Houston “green” schools

built with care and concern for the environment.

ORGANIZATION Organizational Philosophy

Alief Montessori Community School views itself as an educational

community rather than an educational institution. A community coalesces

around a shared vision and recognizes the interdependence of its

members. Central to our decisions and work are the needs of the child:

our vision is an environment which nurtures development and seeks

realization of the full potential of each student. When our focus narrows

or our own individual concerns dominate, we look to the needs of the

child in order to gain perspective and guidance. This manifests trust and

cooperation...a spirit of joy in our work and meaning in our lives.

Administrative Staff Alief Montessori Community School is a Texas public charter school

funded by the Texas Education Agency. According to its articles of

incorporation, it is guided by a Board of Directors in carrying out its

functions as an educational community. The Board is self-perpetuating

with members replaced, added, or dismissed according to the by-laws.

Superintendent/Principal of the School is required to hold an AMI or AMS

Montessori certification. The Principal is charged with the general

administration and active management of the educational programs of

the school.

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Acknowledgement of Receiving Handbook I acknowledge receiving the Alief Montessori Community School

Employee Handbook. I clearly understand that this handbook does not

create a contract for employment with AMCS, and that AMCS retains the

right to unilaterally withdraw or amend The Employee Handbook at any

time, with or without advance notice.

I have read and understood the policies outlined in the AMCS Employee

Handbook, and agree to be bound by the AMCS rules and regulations

during my employment with the AMCS. I understand that violating the

policies and rules set out in this handbook may lead to discipline, up to

and including termination.

_________________________ ______________ Employee Signature Date

Please sign and return this form to Administrative Assistant

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The Assistant Principal, Administrator and Administrative Assistant are

selected by the Principal to assist in all areas of school administration.

Communication Guidelines It is important to promote and enhance effective communication, always

speak directly to the correct person. Second-hand information is never as

reliable as first hand. Gossip and “second guessing” thwart creative

potential and demean the integrity of each person. Creative collaboration

develops through open and frequent communication, thoughtful listening,

and a respect for individual differences. The following chart lists common

faculty concerns or questions of an administrative nature and indicates

the person who would deal with each issue.

Principal

Pedagogical issues, Curriculum; faculty; contracts/legal; salary/benefit;

purchasing; fundraising; faculty meetings; parent education, school

policies and procedures, budget and accounting, human resource

management, teachers and teacher assistants’ performance evaluation

Assistant Principal

Personal/professional leaves, STAAR/TELPAS/TPRI trainings, student

records/(PEIMS) check, timecard check, school calendar, students

relations; discipline; faculty/assistants; parent communication, aftercare

and extended day applications, CASE attendance and expense reports,

lottery and enrolment, student and staff handbook , other duties as may

be assigned

Business Officer

Time cards and payroll, reimbursements, accounting, student fees and

collections; observations; bulk supplies; PEIMS and lunch program submission,

personnel records, facility/equipment monitoring (warranties, bills, repairs,

etc. ), arrival duty, daily scheduling, TRS/medical and dental insurance, food

service reporting, lottery and enrolment, other duties as may be assigned

Administrative Assistant/s

Timecard input, lunch program input, student attendance input, personnel

records filing, student records filing, typing, arrival duty, other duties as may

be assigned

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EMPLOYMENT POLICIES Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity

AMCS is an equal opportunity employer in all areas of employment

including, but not limited to hiring, transfers, promotions, training

opportunities, disciplinary actions, and termination.

Equal employment opportunity is without regard to race, color,

religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, marital status,

sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local, state,

or federal law. In making employment decisions, we are committed to

utilizing only those aspects, which are relevant to the job, namely:

experience, education, work performance, and on the job behaviors.

This policy applies to all areas of employment.

Americans with Disabilities

AMCS is committed to equal opportunity for persons with disabilities as

well as able-bodied employees in compliance with the Americans with

Disabilities Act (ADA), and comparable Texas laws with regard to all

aspects of employment. AMCS provides reasonable accommodation to

both applicant and employees. Any employee who requires an

accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of their job

should contact the Principal.

Personnel File

Employees are responsible for keeping the office aware of their current

address, phone numbers, emergency numbers, number of dependents,

marital status, change of beneficiary and exemptions on W-4 forms.

Personnel Requirements

All employees are required by law to obtain a tuberculosis skin test with a

follow-up or a negative x-ray with a signed statement from their physician

that the staff member is physically fit. This information will be kept in

your personnel file as well as your resume, three references and a criminal

check.

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RECOMMENDED READINGS It is strongly recommended that primary and elementary teachers familiarize themselves with contents from the following books. A study of these readings count towards the 7.5 CPE credits for self-directed training.

Primary

Kramer, Rita. (1976). Maria Montessori: A Biography

Montessori, Maria. (1943). Education and Peace.

Montessori, Maria. (1948). The Discovery of the Child.

Montessori, Maria. (1949). The Absorbent Mind.

Montessori, Maria. (1955). The Formation of Man.

Montessori, Maria. (1948). To Educate the Human Potential.

Montessori, Mario. (1966). The Human Tendencies and Montessori Education.

Elementary

Kramer, Rita. (1976). Maria Montessori: A Biography

Montessori, Maria. (1917). The Advanced Montessori Method.

Montessori, Maria. (1943). Education and Peace.

Montessori, Maria. (1936). The Secret of Childhood.

Montessori, Maria. (1948). To Educate the Human Potential.

Montessori, Maria. (1973). From Childhood to Adolescence.

Harry, Wong. (2004). The First Day of School: How to Be an Effective Teacher

Fredric, Jones. (2000). Fred Jones Tools for Teaching

Janice, Nath., John Ramsey. (2007). Preparing to Teach Texas Content Areas: the TEXES EC-4 Generalist and ESL Supplement

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Common Supplies

Some materials which are used by many teachers are ordered in bulk and

kept in a central supply. These items must be requested from the

administrative assistant and signed for on the inventory list.

Donated Materials

All materials donated by parents, assistants, other schools, etc. are the

property of the Alief Montessori Community School. Materials donated to

a teacher as a gift to that classroom remain the property of the school as

do any donated materials solicited by the teacher for the school or

classroom.

Hand-Made Materials

Material making is on-going as each teacher works to expand the

curriculum and meet specific needs of the classroom.

Teacher-owned Materials

When the teacher provides the raw material and makes the materials without parent or assistant labor, (s)he may keep the materials. Teacher-directed Materials

Materials designed by the teacher but made using raw materials provided

by the school and/or labor of assistants or parents remain the property of

the school.

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All new teachers and staff are required to receive an orientation from the

Administration about school policies, and student discipline for handling

emergencies, releasing of children and the reporting of possible abuses.

Fifteen hours of professional training is required each year for all teaching

and teaching assistant staff. It is the staff member’s responsibility to make

certain that the requirement is met. Verification of attendance must be

kept in the employee file and a log sheet completed in the office.

At Will Employment

AMCS follows at will employment policy.

The staff and the school can give a two-week advance notice to terminate

the employment relationship. If a staff member resigns, it is requested

that a letter be submitted to the Principal at least two weeks in advance.

A staff member’s final check will include all hours worked and not yet

paid. The final check may take up to a month to be issued after all

financial obligations (health insurance premium, loans, and others, etc.)

have been cleared. Staff members will be required to complete the Staff

Withdraw Form, turn in all AMCS property, including keys, credit cards,

and educational materials paid for by the school prior to the last day of

their employment.

Reasonable assurance of a job means that during the summer or any

extended holidays, employees are not eligible to file for unemployment

benefits.

Performance Evaluation

All personnel will be evaluated annually or semi-annually based on your

performance of duties and responsibilities stipulated in your employment

contract.

In the event that an employment is terminated prior to the agreed-upon

duration, employment contract will be voided simultaneously. Dereliction

of duties and responsibilities will result in the withholding of final

paycheck.

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Deficiencies in your overall performance will be discussed along with plans for

correcting those deficiencies. Agreed upon annual goals and objectives will be set

at this time. This performance review will be one of the factors used as a basis for

future employment decisions, including merit increases and disciplinary action. A

copy of your performance review becomes part of your employee personnel file.

Teachers will receive feedback from observation visits by the principal and

curriculum director, and the report will become part of the personnel folder. This

observation will include but is not limited to findings related to the teacher's

abiding by the regulations stated in the staff handbook, documentation of parent

communication, issues related to the management of the classroom, and

promotion of student involvement in curriculum related competition and

activities.

The success of a teacher is directly related to the success of his/her students.

Teachers will be evaluated based on the following domains: Commitment to

School Mission, Professional Standards, Montessori Learning Environment,

Faculty/Student Relationship, Communication. You can obtain a copy of the

Elements of Professional Excellence for Teachers form from the office.

Teachers’ Assistant will be evaluated based on the following domains:

Commitment to School Mission; Professional Standards; Lesson Planning and

Instruction; Communication and Work Relationships; Attendance and

Punctuality. You can obtain a copy of the Teacher’s Assistant Evaluation form

from the office.

AMCS STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES

Read the Student Handbook and the Staff Handbook. Have a working knowledge

of the school’s policies and procedures. The staff’s signature at the end of this

document acknowledges receipt and certifies that you agree to follow all AMCS

policies.

Statement of Confidentiality All faculty members, staff, and volunteers are required to complete a signed

statement of confidentiality as part of the employment contract. State and

Federal law prohibits sharing information about students to other parents,

community members, or anyone other than AMCS school employees.

A copy of the confidentiality form can be found at the back of this handbook.

Please read, sign, and return to Administration office.

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Daily Maintenance

Respect for the environment, as well as neatness, cleanliness, beauty and

accessibility are vital to the functioning of a Montessori class. Teachers are

expected to maintain daily the cleanliness, order, and general appearance

of their classrooms and outdoor areas. The schedule and list of duties to

be provided by the janitorial service will also be made available at the

beginning of the school year. Although assistants and children are actively

involved in many of the maintenance chores, the teacher is ultimately

responsible for their ensuring that the classroom and outdoor areas are

truly “prepared” each day.

Communicating Needs At various times during the year, teachers may need to request specific

maintenance or repairs. Teachers fill out a request form and give it to the

office for the principal’s approval.

MATERIALS & SUPPLIES Montessori Materials/Capital Expenditure

Teachers may submit requests for classroom materials for approval of the

Principal. The approved requests are then processed for ordering.

Teachers will submit a detailed inventory of the classroom materials in

May of each year.

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Hurricane Emergency Plan Strategic Planning

Keep close watch on weather warnings

Plans for immediate evacuation

Plans for communicating with parents

Plans for trimming down vegetation and covering windows

Plans for unplugging electronic devices and remove from floor

Plans for returning : clean-up, make up missed work days, communi-cating with parents about returning dates

THE ENVIRONMENT Philosophy

One of the major components of the Montessori philosophy is the care-

fully prepared environment. A key role of the teacher is to create, evalu-

ate, and maintain the environment. Montessori teachers are often re-

ferred to as “guides” or directresses to highlight their unique role in rela-

tion to the child. As guides, they seek to direct the interests and tenden-

cies of the child, serving as facilitators to the child’s own development.

Each teacher is responsible for directing her class in accordance with the

Montessori philosophy, the guidelines of AMI/AMS, and the general poli-

cies of AMCS. Teachers establish daily plans and long-term goals for each

child and the class in addition to continually striving to develop an on-

going communication with the parents of their students.

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Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination and is strictly prohibited.

AMCS defines sexual harassment as verbal or physical conduct that

degrades or shows hostility or aversion toward an employee or student

because of his/her gender.

Harassing conduct includes epithets, slurs, stereotyping, threatening,

intimidating, hostility or aversion language in oral or displayed in written

form, engaging in sexually oriented conversations, soliciting relationships

with students via all and/or any forms of communication channels,

physical contact that would reasonably be construed as sexual in nature,

and threatening or enticing students to engage in sexual behavior in

exchange for grades or other school-related benefits.

An employee who believes he/she or his/her students have been or is

being subjected to any form of sexual harassment shall bring the matter to

the attention of the principal immediately.

EMPLOYEE ATTENDANCE All AMCS staff MUST clock in upon arrival and clock out at the end of the day everyday. No one is allowed to clock in or out on behalf of another staff. Follow absence reporting procedures if you are going to be absent.

Being on time daily is important at every workplace. As a school

personnel, daily promptness to work is essential for our students’

success. Do your best to take the least amount of time off from work and

only when absolutely necessary. Habitual tardiness will result in docking

your pay. You must notify the office and your team members if you will be

late. Excessive tardiness and absences will be ground for dismissal.

Policy and Procedure for AMCS Staff to Withdraw from School 1. Give at least 2-week notice

2. Fill out the Staff withdraw Form in the office

3. Final check will be issued after all school belongings returned (keys,

books, computer, material, etc) and all financial obligations (health

insurance premium, loans, and others, etc.) have been cleared.

4. The final check may take up to a month to be issued after all matters

are cleared.

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DRESS CODE

All staff members are allowed to dress comfortably for optimum mobility and

involvement with the children. However the appearance should present a

professional image. Various modes of dress are acceptable attire for AMCS

setting: skirts, dresses, slacks, jeans, walking shorts, short heeled or flat shoes,

sandals, tennis shoes. Inappropriate clothing include: dirty cloths, beach shirts,

excessive jewelry or make-up, flip-flops, tight, low-cut pants or jeans with

holes in them or cut-offs, strapless tops, or T-shirts with advertising or written

statements. Shirts and pants must overlap so that no bare skin is exposed

when stretching or sitting.

COMMUNICATION WITH STAFF

It is important to promote and enhance effective communication. Always

speak directly to the intended individual. Second-hand information is

never as reliable as first hand. Gossip and “second guessing” thwart

creative potential and demean the integrity of each person. Creative

collaboration develops through open and frequent communication,

thoughtful listening, and a respect for individual differences.

TRAININGS

Complete 15 hours of professional development training annually (if state-

certified, 150 hours within 5 years) and accomplish an annual staff training

record on or before the last Friday of May. Online and in-house workshops/

trainings are available throughout the year and count for continuing

professional education (CPE) credits.

Only 7.5 hours of training may be self-directed such as reading books, and

journals, observations and videos. All self-directed trainings must be pre-

approved by the principal or curriculum director.

Every staff must maintain a current CPR and first aid certification. Training on

CPR and first aid do not count towards required training hours.

COST CONSERVATION

Help conserve utility costs and report water leaks, or equipment breakdowns

promptly. Please turn off all the lights and other electronic equipment when

you leave the room. Keep all doors closed during days of major temperature

fluctuations.

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Emergency Medical Procedures

CALL 911 Fire Drills Fire drills will be held once a month at different times. 1. Check all hidden areas of the classroom, especially the bathroom to

ensure no one left inside. 2. Close all doors behind you. 3. Take your roll book with you and check roll as soon as you have

reached your designated safe area. Other Evacuation and Drill Procedures

Evacuation plan for chemical release or air borne release

Turn off air conditioning/heating and ceiling fans

Close all windows and doors

Seal the doors and windows with wet towels, sheets or duct tape

Evacuation of the School

You will be notified by phone or in person

If we need to relocate, authorities may provide assistance

with transportation or staff cars may be used

If evacuation is necessary, bring the following items with

you: telephone numbers of parents, emergency medical

forms, dry foods, blankets, pillows

Evacuation plans for a tornado

Open the windows

Go to the most protected area of the building

Use blankets, pillows, rugs as covers for protection

Have flashlight and first aid kit with you

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HEALTH & SAFETY

Responsibilities/Liabilities

You are expected to have a clear understanding of the following:

Basic first aid

Know what supplies are in first aid kit and when to replenish

Know fire evacuation plan

Prepare for tornado warning alert

Know proper procedure for sending students home

Know and follow procedure for reporting child abuse

Always make a written report of all injuries whether minor or

major and have head teacher or the office review for profes-

sional writing before sending a copy home with the student.

A copy needs to be submitted to the office.

A personal phone call by the teacher before the parent re-

ceives the written accident report is essential

Under no circumstances may a group of children or a child be

left alone.

First-Aid Supplies and Procedures

Make certain that you are aware of the location of your first aid kit and that it is stocked at all times. We can use ice, soap and water and band aids. All other products are not allowed by law. Illness or Injury

Do not hesitate to ask other staff or office for help

Call the parents only after students’ needs are met

Stay calm

Stay with the student Accident Reports-Contacting Parents (day of accident)

A cut, bruise, scratch, scrape, bump, splinter or any type of mark on the body

Falling or being hit

Insect bites or human bites

Foreign objects in eyes

Always submit a reviewed report to the parents and office for situation requiring first aid.

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OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

Request assistance when having difficulty with a child, parent, or co-

worker.

Follow good health and safety habits to maintain the physical and

emotional fitness of yourself and others.

Effective use of your time at work is essential. Excessive visiting in the

offices, classrooms, socializing or doing personal tasks during school

hours will not be tolerated.

Smoking is prohibited on and around the school premises.

School tours to parents shall be referred to and subject to approval by the

school principal. All parents and visitors must check in with the office first

before going to any classroom.

Volunteer Guidelines All volunteers of AMCS must complete and adhere to requirements before working in the school. A separate volunteer handbook is available for details.

Reporting Suspected Child Abuse: Hotline # 1-800-252-5400 Each AMCS employee is required to take the Child Abuse Prevention Training on

the DFPS website. Certificate of training shall be submitted to the office on or

before the end of the first week of September. Any AMCS employee who suspect

that a student has been or may be abused or neglected should report the concern

to the campus principal. Teachers and other professional staff are required by

state law to report any suspected child abuse or neglect within 48 hours of first

suspecting that a child has been abused or neglected. The person seeing or

hearing of the abuse or neglect will make the report. Under state law, any person

reporting or assisting in the investigation of a report of child abuse or neglect is

immune from liability unless the report is made in bad faith or with malicious

intent.

Safe and Drug Free School The school prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation,

possession, or use of a controlled substance, illicit drug, alcohol and tobacco as

those terms are defined in state and federal law, in the workplace, on school

premises, or as part of any of the school's activities.

Compliance with these requirements and prohibitions is mandatory and is a

condition of employment. As a further condition of employment, an employee

shall notify the school of any criminal drug conviction the employee incurs no later

than five days after such conviction. AMCS may require faculty and staff members

to participate in the drug-testing program.

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Employee Absences & Substitute Procedure

When it is necessary for an employee to be absent, the procedures listed

below shall be followed:

All employees are expected to request anticipated absences in

advance to the office for approval as soon as possible.

Make every effort to notify the Assistant Principal before 10:00 p.m.

the night before an unexpected absence. If this is not possible,

notification must be made to the Assistant Principal between 6:30

a.m. and 7:00 a.m. on the day of the absence.

Be sure to also notify your co-workers of your absence.

For classroom personnel, make sure to secure a substitute from the

list distributed at the beginning of the school year upon your absence.

In emergency cases or after 7:00 a.m., keep calling the school office

until someone answers.

Upon returning to work, the employee must turn in absence form to

the administrative assistant for the Assistant Principal to sign/

approve.

Each teacher is required to have a substitute folder readily accessible

that contains the following:

Lesson Plans, Class Rolls

Alternative activities, if needed

Seating Charts - if applicable

Fire Drill and Disaster Routes

Name and Room Number of a staff member to answer

questions; also, names of helpful students

Special instructions unique to your location or subject area.

Procedure for Correcting Time Cards Elementary Campus: Teacher assistants will have their time cards signed by their lead teachers when they forget to clock in. For teachers and other campus staff, Ms. Martinez has been designated to sign for written time in time cards. As a matter of respect and integrity, be responsible to write in the accurate time.

Primary Campus: For teachers and staff, the Assistant Principal will sign for written time in time cards.

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RECORDS & REPORTS Permanent Files

Alief Montessori Community School keeps a permanent file of all enrolled

students. These files are updated and maintained by the Administrative

Assistant. All student records are mailed or given to the parents by the

Administrative Assistant and not the teacher.

Academic Files

Teachers must keep accurate records of each child’s progress. These

records are to be updated twice a year and must include all assessment

and progress records. These records must reflect details of lessons given

and the child’s development. Each teacher needs to submit a signed

complete list of students’ academic records at the end of the year.

Records for Transition and Transfer (lesson plans)

When a child makes a transition to the next level or transfers to another

school, the teacher updates the student’s progress record and completes

the appropriate evaluation forms. These records are submitted to the

office within one week of transition or transfer. For in school transition,

please transfer the student’s portfolio of work as complete as possible to

assist the new teacher.

Attendance Procedures

Attendance must be taken in each class between 9:30am and 10:00am

each day. Attendance sheets must be signed by the teacher only and

turned in to the office each Friday.

District Procedures Related to Special Population of Students

The administration screens all new enrollees for proper program

placement. Special programs may be offered to students in one of the

following:

Special Education

ESL

504

Compensatory Education

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Steps in Resolving Concerns, Problems Related to Student Behavior, or

Student Progress

Meet with the Principal to discuss the concern

Teacher Informs Parents of Concern

Describe observations, behaviors, and changes in behavior.

Do not give your personal judgment or opinion.

First Parent/Teacher Meeting

Parents and teacher meet to discuss their personal

observations

Design an action plan/implement the plan with the Principal

Responses to behavior

Follow-up plan

Timetable

Meeting with parents to evaluate the progress of the plan at the

conclusion of the allotted time, evaluate with parents and with written

documentation which is then distributed to the parents, teacher and the

Principal after being signed by all participants.

Field Trip Procedure

Requests for field trips must be approved by the Principal and placed on

the calendar at the beginning of the semester. Waivers of liability are

required for all students. The teacher for the trip is required to have a

waiver from each student with the parent signature. The teacher must

also have with them on the trip a copy of all the students’ emergency

medical form.

There must be at least one adult per 10 students. Teacher should secure

enough chaperones to supervise the group. All volunteers are required to

have a criminal background check completed before being with any

students.

Participating students must stay with teacher, assistants and designated

chaperones only, at all times.

Field trip fee need to be assessed with Principal’s approval. Fees need to be collected and submitted to the office.

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Employees Leaving Campus During Work Hours Faculty and staff who leave the building for a personal matter are to sign/ clock out and include information about where they are going, the time of departure and expected return. Do not leave students unsupervised at any time. Personal Calls and Items for AMCS Staff Family and friends bringing in lunches, treats or other items for staff would need to come to the office so as not disrupt classroom instruction and activities. Personal cell phones shall be put away during instruction time. Personal phone calls should only be made during lunch breaks and after school time unless in case of emergency. The use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited during work hours.

LEAD TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES Faculty/Staff Meetings

Teachers and office staff are expected to attend regularly scheduled and

called meetings and workshops. The Principal must be notified in advance

if you cannot attend or must leave early from a faculty meeting or

training.

Induction and Orientation All new elementary faculty at AMCS are inducted during the orientation meeting held two weeks before classes start. Teacher aides also attend an orientation training to discuss their duties and responsibilities.

Mentoring New Teachers Mentors will be assigned to new teachers. The Principal and/or Assistant

Principal will conduct walk-throughs and observations at least each

month during the school year.

Parent Orientation

All lower and upper elementary teachers shall schedule a parent

orientation for every new student in their class within the first four weeks

of school.

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Lesson Plans and Progress Reports/Work Plans The Montessori approach is the primary instructional method used in the

classroom. Students shall have at least a three-hour uninterrupted work period in

the morning where a series of individual, small group, and large group lessons are

carried out. Saying the pledge, class meetings, other large group gatherings and

recess shall be scheduled after the three-hour work period.

Follow-up and/or independent work on classroom materials should always be

preceded by an individual or small-group direct instruction/lesson to make

students’ practice or use of materials more meaningful and effective.

Lesson plans have always been an important tool for teachers as they plan and

prepare for guiding and assessing their students. These plans are also served as:

(1) written documentation to ensure all Texas Essential Elements/TEKS and STAAR

objectives are being presented over the school year, and (2) an aid to the heads

and/or curriculum director for effective teacher observations, and (3) plans for a

substitute.

At the beginning of the year, all faculty members will participate in a lesson planning workshop/collaboration for their grade levels. An outcome of this collaboration shall be a general outline of lessons per content area for the entire school year (six six-week period). Weekly lesson plans are submitted to either Primary Curriculum Director or the

Principal for review and record. Keep copies of your lesson plans. These will be

archived as required by state law.

Classroom Management and Maintenance The prepared environment is the responsibility of the lead teacher. Replenish, rotate, repair classroom materials and supplies. The lead teacher will set up a schedule with the TA on daily, weekly, monthly routines for the classroom. Review grace and courtesy lessons learned from primary. Establish good classroom management by developing and practicing classroom rules and procedures with your students in the early weeks of school and have ongoing enforcement and follow-up.

Train students to clean up the classroom at the end of the day. Encourage

students to take ownership and responsibility for their learning space.

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Written Communication

School Newsletter-published several times each year. Faculty

members are asked to write one article each year and to contribute

ideas and suggestions regarding content and format.

Monthly Classroom Bulletin- each teacher will send a brief monthly

bulletin or letter to all families of students in their class. Please share

events, particular themes or focus on future plans for the class.

Conferences

Arranging conferences: primary teachers must schedule a conference

with parents of new children before starting class or after their first

two weeks in class. Regular parent conferences are in October and

May with both parents attending are strongly encouraged. Parents

should observe class prior to the conference. Parents or teachers may

request a conference at any time that is mutually agreed upon.

Recommendations and Referrals: if a teacher believes that special

intervention is required the teacher should consult with the

Administrator/Principal for the proper steps before notifying the

parents.

Authorization for Releasing a Child

The names of those authorized to take a child from school other than the

parent is with the office or the staff member releasing the student and a

copy with the teacher. If it is a temporary pick-up, the parent must send a

signed note to school before pick up. The staff who release the child will

always take a copy of the person’s identification picking up the child and it

will be kept in the students’ folder.

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Employee Grievances

AMCS strives to encourage open communication with all employees.

While most concerns can be resolved informally, the grievance procedure

consists of the following steps:

Discuss the matter with the person or persons involved.

If the matter is not resolved discuss the matter with your immediate

supervisor.

If the matter is not handled to your satisfaction please put the matter

in writing to the Principal who will schedule an appointment to

discuss the matter.

If the matter is not settled with the Principal you may send a written

report of the situation to the Board of Directors. The Board will make

the final decision.

STUDENT ISSUES

Parent Communication

The teacher takes the initiative in setting the pattern for communication.

At the start of the year, give clear precise guidelines about when you are

available for discussions or conferences. It is imperative to contact

parents immediately whenever there is a problem.

Parent Meetings

Orientation sessions are held at the beginning of each school year for all

parents. Individual teachers are encouraged to plan additional meetings

or special events for parents of children in their classes. These meetings

must be approved by the Principal and coordinated with the school

calendar before notifying parents.

Student Attendance

According to Texas Education Code Sec. 25.095, if the student is absent

from school 10 or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in

the same school year or on three or more days or parts of days within a

four-week period, the student’s parent is subject to prosecution for

truancy.

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Record Keeping Primary teachers maintain student progress records which are submitted to the

Primary Curriculum Director every month for review and goal-setting. Elementary

teachers develop weekly work plan for each student and keep record of students’

progress. Monthly student progress records need to be developed and recorded in

the elementary level and submit to the Principal.

An effectively managed classroom keeps organized record of lessons, student files

and portfolios. Teachers and/or assistants must make sure to accomplish the

following for record-keeping purposes:

Updated class list (with names and birthdays)

Daily attendance and lunch count forms submitted weekly to the office.

Emergency form for every student.

Record book to tally students’ daily attendance, tardiness

Daily and weekly record of lessons given to every student

Record students’ monthly progress

Conference reports and portfolio of student work in critical areas

Parent-Teacher Communications

Establish good communication and rapport with parents regarding their child’s

activities and progress at school. Formal and informal conferences are to be

conducted. Document communication with parents regarding matters of vital

importance in behavior and/academic concerns and provide such information to

school administration as well.

Observe the following guidelines in sharing information with other AMCS staff to

ensure that confidentiality is not breached but only for problem-solving and

conflict resolution:

1. To share information so that communication reaches the appropriate AMCS

staff in a timely manner;

2. To guide and train staff in different modes of problem solving and conflict

resolution.

3. To record needed information so that concerns can be addressed properly

4. To evaluate our daily work and call attention to improve or adjust as needed.

Library Use

The library is open to elementary students and all AMCS staff. Each of the

elementary classes will be given library schedules . A library orientation will given

by a school staff for each elementary class within the first two weeks of school.

Teachers shall maintain a weekly record of books borrowed and returned by

students.

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Supervising Teacher Aides Besides the teacher aide training, lead teachers shall assist teacher aides in understanding the basic and core use of the Montessori Method as it applies to their job, daily routines, communication with the children. Inform your teacher assistants that the lead teacher is responsible for communicating with parents and guardians and that questions from parents be referred to the teacher. Teacher Aide evaluation shall be conducted by the lead teacher in December and in May.

Purchasing Supplies and Expense Reimbursement Teachers may submit a supply requisition form for materials needed for curriculum

or project related items. Once approved by the Principal, the office will purchase

the supplies on the requisition form. For reimbursement of approved travel or

other expenses, appropriate documentation (packing slip, receipts) and a

reimbursement form must be completed and submitted to the Principal.

TEACHER AIDE RESPONSIBILTIES

Monitoring The Class Assist in communication and management of the children.

Student Arrival/Dismissal Duties Arrival: Assigned staff will start receiving students at 8:00 AM sharp. All students must proceed directly to their respective classrooms upon arrival.

Dismissal: All students should be ready for dismissal by 3:15 PM. Please help to implement and monitor proper arrival and dismissal procedures .

Food Handling and Safety

All new teacher assistants shall have Food Handling and Safety training.

Sanitizing Procedure Cleanliness of materials, plates, glasses, bathrooms, rest mats, toys and sinks is

critical for the prevention of illness. Both children and adults must wash hands

after using the bathroom; staff must wash after helping a child with accidents,

vomiting, blowing nose, or cleaning a wound. Hands are washed before and after

handling food or eating. In these instances disposable gloves are provided and

must be worn. Hands must be washed after disposing of the gloves. Microwaves,

refrigerators and food preparation areas must be cleaned and disinfected at all

times.

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Other Unpaid Leave

AMCS shall grant an unpaid leave of absence for a maximum of 12 weeks

per year to all eligible employees for the birth of an employee’s child in

order to care for the child, for the placement of a child with the employee

for adoption or foster care, to care for a spouse, child or parent who has a

serious health condition, or for a serious health condition that renders the

employee incapable of performing the functions of his or her job. An

eligible employee is defined as one who is a full-time employee with a

minimum of one year employment at AMCS.

Teacher Retirement System

The part time and full time employees are eligible for participating in the

Texas Teacher Retirement System after three-month employment. The

employee’s contribution is 7.3% of one’s income with state contribution.

All employees also contribute 1.45% monthly for Medicare Taxes, but do

not participate in the Social Security Taxes.

If you retire from Alief Montessori Community School you will be paid

$50.00 per day for every unused local day up to 100 days. You must be

eligible for retirement. If you have any questions about retirement

eligibility, please meet with the Administrator.

Health Insurance

New full time employees are eligible for participation in medical insurance

plans after one-month employment. Staff member has option, per plan

provisions, to purchase dependent care coverage, the cost of which is paid

entirely by employee.

The full time employees are also eligible for participation in dental/vision

and long-term disability insurance plan.

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(5) Funerals

In the event of the death of an immediate family member—a mother,

father, husband, wife or child, a regular employee may be absent without

loss of pay and without personal leave deduction for a funeral.

Funeral leave will be paid with one day allowed for a local funeral and

three days allowed for an out-of -town or out-of-state funeral. Additional

days and absences for all other funerals are charged to personal leave.

(6) Jury Duty

The school is not required to pay for jury duty, however AMCS will pay for

one day of jury duty for each full time employee. Employees who are

summoned to federal or state jury duty or are subpoenaed as court

witnesses may be absent without loss of pay and without personal leave

deduction for one day. The employee is to provide a copy of the

subpoena or an affidavit verifying the number of days served on a jury to

the School Administrator.

(7) Professional Leave

AMCS encourages employees to participate in professional

activities. Employees may ask to attend professional meetings, training or

workshops with full pay and without a deduction to personal leave

balances. Any employee desiring such leave should submit a request to

the School Principal for approval at least ten school days in advance of the

pending absence.

Unpaid Leave

Unpaid leave for up to twelve weeks may be granted to full-time

employees with the recommendation of the School Principal and the

approval of the Board to care for a sick relative, for personal health, or

parental leave.

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Sanitization requires a 4 step process:

1. Wash items with soap and water

2. Rinse with clear water

3. Soak items in or spray on a disinfecting solution (prepared daily

mixture of 1/2 ounce of bleach with 1 gallon of water) for at least 1

minute. Rinse items that children are likely to put in their mouths

4. Allow the items to air dry

Conservation of Supplies

Use minimum numbers of paper towel for cleaning up spills.

Use only napkins for snacks instead of paper towels.

Use spray bottles with bleach water for disinfecting instead of Lysol. Handling Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and Ant Mounds Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a mixture of ground up diatoms from fossils or

lake bottoms, which can be used to combat ants as it robs insects of

moisture and breaks apart their skin. Unless directly inhaled, it doesn't

pose a threat to humans, but keep away from children and pets. Again,

look for products which contain natural DE with no other chemical

ingredients. Use garden use DE not the kind used in swimming pools.

PRECAUTION: Handle with CARE

Avoid inhaling dust by having adequate ventilation.

Wear a mask, eye protection and gloves when handling this or any

dusty powder.

Wash eyes with eyewash solutions or clean water.

Avoid contact with skin, as DE can act as a drying agent.

For ant mounds on the playground

Sprinkle 2-4 tablespoons on top of the mound. Lightly rake into the mound and

leave it alone for a couple of days. The ants will come out of the mound, so be

careful. If the ants are not gone, retreat after two days.

Do not apply when rain is expected. Rain washes the DE into the soil and renders

it ineffective.

Wash hands after use. DE is not poisonous but has a very fine powder that can

cause lung and mouth irritation.

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Physical Education/Activities

All students enrolled in Pre-K age 3 to fifth grade are required to participate in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least 135 minutes weekly. The physical activity may occur in P.E., and structured recess, in or outside the classroom. All classes shall schedule PE/recess time after at least a three-hour work

period in the morning.

P.E. Exemptions Requests from parents/guardians for students to be temporarily excused from participation in physical education shall be in writing and shall be submitted to the child’s teacher for approval. The teacher may accept a written excuse from the parent for the first three days for an obvious condition or injury. On the fourth day, the teacher shall refer the student to the principal, who in turn may excuse the student up to an additional ten school days. At the end of this period, the principal shall require written medical instructions from a physician.

Upon the written request of parents/guardians and of a recognized

religious official, a student may be excused from certain physical

education activities which may infringe upon an individual's religious

convictions. In these instances, the PE instructor and/or teacher shall plan

alternative activities within the scope of the program for the individual

student.

Personnel are encouraged to develop appropriate physical activities for

students who may have physical disabilities (a broken limb, allergies, etc.)

in accordance with medical instructions.

Playground The purpose of playground supervision is to provide children with a safe, secure, and comfortable environment in which to play. The most important factor in providing this environment is the teacher. Without alert supervision, the probabilities of student injuries, discipline

confrontations, and safety problems increase.

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(2) Personal Business

Personal business means an event or condition that requires the

employee’s presence during the workday and is of such nature that it

cannot be attended to after working hours or on weekends. Legal

transactions, such as house closings, are considered to be justification for

personal business leave. Except in the case of an emergency, a written

request for a personal business day must be submitted to the School

Assistant Principal at least 24 hours prior to the time for which the leave is

requested. When requesting the discretionary personal business day, the

employee must state the reason, the request should note that it is a

discretionary personal business day. Personal business cannot be used to

extend vacations or scheduled school holidays. After reviewing the

request, the Assistant Principal will advise the employee of his or her

decision.

(3) Family Illness

All employees may be absent with paid leave in case of the illness of a

member of the employee’s immediate family (husband, wife, child,

brother, sister, father, mother, grandparent or grandchild). In case of

absences in excess of three consecutive days due to the illness of a family

member, a medical practitioner must provide written certification

concerning the nature of the illness.

(4) Family Emergency

An employee may be absent with paid leave for a family emergency,

which is limited to natural disasters and life threatening situations

involving the employee or a member of the employee’s immediate family

or any person living in the employee’s home at the time of the family

emergency. On returning to duty, the employee must submit a written,

detailed statement to the School Principal explaining the circumstances

that necessitated the need for the absence.

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Personal Leave

All full-time employees receive five (5) days state personal and five (5)

additional days local personal leave annually. Accumulated personal leave

is carried over from one year to the next. Full time employees receive five

days of personal leave per year, a day being defined as the equivalent

number of hours worked in a scheduled day for the position. If an

employee overuses his or her personal leave, the employee will be docked

at the daily rate of pay.

Part-time hourly employees will receive 3 days leave credits. It can not be

accumulated.

Excessive leaves without good reason can be a ground for non-renewal for

future employment.

Paid personal leave categories are (1) personal illness, (2) personal

business, (3) family illness, (4) family emergency, (5) funeral, (6) jury duty,

(7) professional leave. The employee should give as much advance notice

as possible for paid personal leave days.

State and district personal days are non-transferable from other districts.

An employee may have no more than four personal days per semester and

they may not be taken before or after a holiday. Personal days may not be

taken during staff development days.

(1) Personal Illness

Employees may be absent with full pay in case of illness, injury, pregnancy,

or medical and dental appointments. It is the employee’s responsibility to

call the school to report his or her absence prior to the reporting time of

the day when he or she will be out for personal illness or family illness.

Absences under the “personal illness” category will be compensated to a

maximum of accumulated personal leave. If any employee uses all

accumulated personal leave and is still unable to return to his/her

assigned duties, the employee shall be placed on unpaid medical leave. In

accordance with state law, certification by a doctor will be required for

personal illness absences in excess of three continuous duty days.

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Playground Rules The following rules provide a structure for a safe playground environment:

1. The teacher to student ratio for supervision shall be:

For students age 5 or under: one teacher for every seventeen

students

For students age 6 to 12: one teacher for every 30 students

2. Teachers should use whistles and/or develop signals to communicate

with students.

3. While on duty, teachers should practice "vigilant supervision."

Careful attention should be focused on:

Close teacher proximity to students,

Continuous teacher circulation among students, and

Constant visual scanning of the play area.

4. Areas that include high-risk equipment such as climbing apparatus, slides,

and swings should have fewer numbers of students assigned.

5. Proper and safe usage of all playground equipment should be taught and

reinforced to students throughout the school year.

6. “Behavior Expectations” for students shall be introduced and followed

through on the playground.

7. Anyone on the playground other than school students and personnel

must have checked in at the office and wear a nametag. Report any

questionable persons to the office immediately.

8. In case of a serious injury, the teacher or PE instructor should:

apply first aid, or call 911, as needed

Lead teacher notifies parents immediately,

never leave the child until the parent arrives,

signal another adult to assist with supervision of other students

fill out the incident or accident report form and send copies to

parents and office. The head teacher must review and approve

the report before giving to the parents.

9. Each class is responsible for playground clean-up before going inside.

Use of the Multi-purpose Room for PE and/or Recess

Follow the guidelines on the use of the multi-purpose room for PE and recess.

Choose indoor games for activities and emphasize on the care of our facilities.

Students must be supervised at all times in the multi-purpose room.

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AMCS Internet Use Policy

The use of AMCS computers, networks, software, and Internet is to

support research and instruction. Content residing on school-owned

resources is property of AMCS. The use of AMCS computers, networks,

software, and Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will

result in the termination of those privileges, and/or your employment

with the school. Illegal activities (such as illegal music/movie download or

posting, etc.) are strictly prohibited.

All electronic information including e-mails, blogs, social-network

information, personal video footage, etc. are not guaranteed to be private

and can be classified as public record. Messages relating to or in support

of illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate authorities.

AMCS administrators will determine what is inappropriate internet usage,

and their decision and the consequences are final.

Disclaimer

The staff, faculty, and AMCS shall not be liable for users’ inappropriate use of electronic communication resources, violations of copyright restrictions, mistakes or negligence, or costs incurred by users. AMCS shall not be responsible for ensuring the accuracy or usability of any information found on the Internet.

Inquiries or Concerns

All concerns about the school premises, furniture and fixtures, students

and student policies, employee matters, general budget, and classroom

budget needs should be forwarded to the Principal or Principal's

designated staff responsible for such needs. All concerns about the

payroll should be directed to the Principal. It is everyone's responsibility

to help stop rumors. When confronted with issues, go directly to the

administrator that can provide you the appropriate information.

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Disciplinary Action for Personnel

The following behavior may result in immediate termination of

employment. Disciplinary action will be carried out by due process except

when immediate termination is indicated.

Physical, verbal, or emotional abuse of any child or employee

Conduct detrimental to the school’s community image

Failing to fully disclose all prior criminal history background

Excessive absences without prior approval from the Principal

Excessive is defined as 24 work hours beyond allowed leave

Coming to school under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Willfully failing to adhere to school policies or procedures

Use of mobile phone for personal calls during work hours

Progressive discipline procedures and practices of AMCS will result in the

following steps:

Counseling or verbal reprimand;

A written job in jeopardy warning;

A written notice of termination

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS

AMCS compensation philosophy is to recruit and retain highly qualified

staff and administrators and to compensate them for achieving high levels

of work performance. Personal salary information is to be kept strictly

confidential.

Payroll Procedures

Monthly payroll checks are distributed not later than the 26th of each

month (or on the last regular work day after these dates if either one falls

on a weekend or holiday). All employees must submit time sheets,

indicating the actual start and stop time. Time sheets must also include all

approved leave forms. Employees are required to complete their own

time sheets and may not complete a time sheet for another employee.

Violation of these responsibilities may result in counseling and possible

termination.