2025-2026 Student Handbook

392 Gold Hill Road

Fort Mill, South Carolina 29715

803-396-1041

Visit us on the web at: https://fhes.fortmillschools.org/

 

Flint Hill Elementary

Cub Culture: Kindness • Respect • Responsibility

Mission:  At Flint Hill Elementary, our cub community will learn at high levels by working together and building relationships in a safe and supportive environment.

Our Vision: (in progress of creating)

Our Commitments: (in progress of creating)

 

ATTENDANCE

Good attendance is essential to the academic success of students and all students are expected to be in attendance each day school is in session. Attendance at Flint Hill Elementary is traditionally outstanding.  Each year, we have excellent attendance by our students.  This is a tribute to each family’s efforts to have their child at school daily.  We appreciate this effort!

LAWFUL ABSENCES

According to SC Code of Laws 59-65-10, the following types of absences are the only ones considered lawful:

1. Serious, chronic, or extended illness of the student. ( If your child has a chronic illness or is hospitalized for an extended period of time, please submit medical verification to the principal. )
2. Serious illness or death in the immediate family.
3. Recognized religious holiday for the students of the particular religious faith when pre-arranged.
4. Pre-arranged absences for other reasons and/or extreme hardships at the discretion of the principal.

Parents must provide the school with a note identifying the reason for the absence within three (3) days of their child returning to school.  The note should be dated and specify the reason for the absence.  

Following any absence, a student is required to present a written note from the parent or guardian stating the date(s) of the absence(s), the reason for the absence(s), and the parent’s signature.  The note should be presented within two days of the child’s absence(s). If we do not receive a note explaining the child’s absence, then it will be coded as unlawful. The school will only accept a parent's written excuse for five total days of absences when the student is ill or absent for another lawful reason. Notes are kept on file by the attendance clerk.

UNLAWFUL ABSENCES

Any absence by a student with or without the knowledge of the parent not meeting one of the conditions for a lawful absence as defined above will count toward the cumulative limit of absences.  Written notification will be sent by the school for accumulated absences.  A call will be made by the attendance clerk after 3 consecutive absences.  When a child accumulates 5 absences that are unlawful or not excused by a medical note, the parents will be required to attend an attendance intervention (truancy) conference and assist the principal or his/her designee in the development of an attendance intervention plan which will be valid in any SC school district.  Excessive absences and failure to adhere to the guidelines of an intervention plan could result in a family court referral.  The school will only accept a parent-written note for five days of absence.  Following those days, doctor’s excuses are required.  All vacations and trips are unlawful reasons for a student to miss school, and will be considered unexcused.

MAKE-UP WORK FOR ABSENCES

Assignments and class work missed may be made up at the teacher’s discretion.  This is the responsibility of the student. Should assignments not be available for the entire period of the absence, the student is responsible for getting them upon his/her return in order to cover the material missed. Remember that experiments, discussions, group activities, etc. may be difficult to replicate. Grade work done or tests completed by the class while the student is absent will be made up, depending on the nature of the assignment; therefore, the student may have fewer grades at the end of the grading period. Additionally, for any tests given after the student returns, the student will be responsible for the material covered in class while he/she is absent. If any work is not made up, it may affect the student’s grade.  The work needs to be made up within two days of the absence or at the teacher’s discretion.  If the student is absent, the parent may call and request to pick up assignments after school in the office.  Please do not expect the teacher to provide assignments during the school day. Virtual/eLearning will not be available for students that are absent.

TARDIES

Our school day begins at 7:35 am. Students arriving after 7:35 a.m. are tardy and must report to the office and be signed in by their parents for admittance to class.  Tardies cost your child valuable educational instruction.  Tardies also interrupt the learning process for other students.  Be considerate of other students’ education. Excessive tardiness may result in an intervention meeting for development of an attendance plan which will remain in the child’s record and transfer to any receiving school.

EARLY DISMISSAL

Parents are requested not to pick up a child before the regular dismissal time.  This is an interruption of the educational process, not only for your child, but other children as well.  A child must be present for at least half of the school day to be considered present as related to perfect attendance. However, any portion of the day a child can attend will be to his/her benefit.  Please provide verification for medical appointments. Please schedule these as near the beginning or end of the day as possible so your child can be in school.

If parents plan to take a child from school before the close of the day, they should send a note in the morning stating the reason for the early dismissal and the time their child will be picked up.  Parents are requested to enter by the front door, come to the school office, and sign out their child. Students leaving early must be signed out in the office and be dismissed only to a parent or approved family member. This procedure is for your child’s protection – please keep information updated to facilitate this function, especially in emergency situations or early weather related school closings. In an effort to minimize disruption at dismissal time, all early checkouts must occur before 1:30pm.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

7:05 AM                Breakfast/Car Rider Drop-Off- Adult supervision begins

7:20 AM                Teacher arrival time

7:25 AM                Students admitted to classrooms

7:35 AM                Instructional Day begins- students must be in the classroom at this time

2:00 PM                Bus students dismissed, Car riders dismissed, Walking students dismissed

2:50 PM                End of workday for teachers

OFFICE HOURS

7:05 AM to 3:00 PM

Main office: 803-396-1041

Safety is our top priority.  We need your help to ensure that students are not in dangerous situations.  By following the guidelines below, we can work together to make sure our children get to school and leave safely.

BUS PARKING LOT (Left of the School)

State law requires separation of car and bus pick up areas.  Only school district buses are allowed to park in the back parking lot.  Employees have parking spaces in the bus lot.  It is dangerous for our students to be allowed to walk around buses to get to or from cars.  The buses must not be blocked as they have many routes to run.

ARRIVAL

TRANSPORTATION - CAR RIDERS

For the safety of our students we must follow a plan for loading and unloading cars. In the mornings, all children are to be unloaded in the front of the building near the front of the school entrance. In the afternoons, all students will be picked up in that same location. Parents are reminded that for safety reasons, students will not be allowed to cross lines of traffic to waiting cars; therefore please do not park across from the loading area to get your child. All cars should stay in one line of traffic; we will load your child as quickly as possible. All students should exit the car on the passenger side that is closest to the school building. Please display your car tag on the rearview mirror of your vehicle provided by the school; this will help speed the loading process. Safety regulations require separate car and bus entrances; consequently, the bus lane is closed to all cars in the morning and in the afternoon. Additionally, parents should not unload children in the teacher parking lot in the mornings.

Please do not park and leave your car unattended along the curb in front of the building in the morning or afternoon. If you need to come into the building please park in the front parking lot. Since the instructional day begins at 7:35am, no students should arrive before 7:05 (when adult supervision begins) or after 7:35am.  

If your child needs to go home a different way than normal, for example, they need to be a car rider when they normally ride a bus, you must send a note to your child’s teacher or an email. Otherwise, they will be sent home the normal way. 

Parents are encouraged to have a consistent mode of transportation for their child to eliminate confusion and the potential for a child going home the correct way.  However, we realize that there are times when a transportation change needs to be made.  In this situation, please call the office before 1:00 and send in a note to your child’s teacher.

DISMISSAL

All students will be dismissed at 2:00 pm. If you plan to pick-up your child from school, please follow the designated pick-up procedures, as there will be a lot of traffic, both cars and buses, around the school at that time. Pick-up procedures are discussed later in the handbook. Students not picked up by 2:25 will be taken to the office to wait for their ride. Students picked up after 2:25 must be signed out by the person picking them up.

Parents will be given a car tag to be placed on their rear view mirror or shown to the car rider line caller.  Without your car tag, you may be asked to present a driver’s license and wait while student records are checked to see who has permission to pick up the student. Additional cards may be acquired from the office for those authorized to pick up the student.

Students should be picked up no later than 2:25 PM.  If you are unable to pick up your child by this time, please make arrangements for your child to be picked up by someone else and notify the office of the arrangements in writing by note or e-mail.  This is extremely important. For the safety of all, we ask that drivers not talk on cell phones during pick-up and delivery. We ask that you not smoke in your vehicle or when on school premises during drop-off, pick-up, or visits to the school.  Everyone is reminded of the district policy prohibiting smoking on any school property, including buildings, grounds, and parking lots at any time.  Please be sure younger children accompanying you are supervised.  

PARENT VOLUNTEERS AND DISMISSAL

Many parents graciously volunteer their time to the school.  If you have been volunteering in the building, please follow standard dismissal procedures. If you volunteer until the end of the day, you need to sign your student out in the office.            

TRANSPORTATION CHANGES

Parents are encouraged to have a consistent mode of transportation for their child to eliminate confusion and the potential for a child going home the correct way.  However, we realize that there are times when a transportation change needs to be made.  In this situation, please call the office before 1:00 and send in a note to your child’s teacher.

Important Phone Numbers

Flint Hill Elementary– (803) 396-1041

Fort Mill School District – (803) 548-2527

Bus Transportation Office – (803) 548-1998

Special Services – (803) 548-8218

BUS TRANSPORTATION

Administrators, parents, bus drivers, and students share the responsibility for safe transportation of students.  Riding a bus is a privilege and must not be abused.  Action will be taken by district and school officials to ensure that all students conduct themselves properly.  Where there is evidence of misconduct by any student, action will be taken to correct the situation.

It is important to review the bus rules and expectations set forth by our district transportation department prior to riding on a school bus. Please note that students will not be allowed to ride a different bus home with friends without prior approval from the district transportation office. A complete list of school bus rules, policies and procedures can be found through the Fort Mill School District Transportation website.

To ensure a safe environment on each bus, the school fully supports the driver in maintaining safe bus habits.  Anyone who violates these safety standards will be subject to disciplinary action by school officials; when necessary, bus transportation will be denied. The driver will report to school authorities any offenses committed by the students on the bus. When a student is reported for an infraction of the bus rules, the school administrator will investigate the incident and take necessary disciplinary action. A copy of the incident report will be mailed to the parents. When a student is suspended from riding a bus, he/she cannot ride another bus during the suspension period.  

Students are assigned to buses at the beginning of the year, and any variation must be approved by the Director of Transportation. If your child needs to ride a different bus home than the one that picks him/her up, then a special request must be made to the district Director of Transportation. Students will be allowed to ride a different bus only as room allows.  If your child needs to ride a different bus home than the one that picks him/her up, then a special request must be made to the district Director of Transportation (802-1998). Students will be allowed to ride a different bus only if prior approval has been given. Forms for making these requests are available in the school office.

It is the desire of the Fort Mill School District that all students arrive at school and home safely. We appreciate your help in ensuring student safety.

PETS

Pets are not allowed on school property as a violation of health code, and as a courtesy to students and staff who may have allergies or anxieties related to animals.  If you should choose to bring your pet through the car rider line, then they must remain calmly in their car.  We have had small ones afraid of the loud barking of the dog, and dogs have jumped out of cars. We all love our pets, and we must remember that the primary purpose of the car rider line is to have students enter safely and happily into the school. Designated service dogs may be on school property.

POLICIES AND REGULATIONS      

RETURNING TO CLASS AFTER SCHOOL

Students are responsible for bringing home materials needed for assignments.  Should a student need to return to class after school hours, we ask for that student to report to the front office to be escorted back to the classroom. At no point should a student or adult enter a classroom after hours without an escort from the school.

FERPA INFORMATION

The Family Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.  The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the US Department of Education. The law requires that student records be managed in a confidential manner. Regulations and procedures for compliance of this act are provided through board policy. For more information about your rights under FERPA, please refer to the district’s website.

Title IX

Title IX | It is the policy of Flint Hill Elementary and the Fort Mill School District  not to discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational programs, activities or employment policies as required by the Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX may be directed to the District’s Compliance Coordinator or to the Director of the Office of Civil Rights, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington D.C.

Fort Mill School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.  The following persons has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:
Non-discrimination Inquiries (Students and Families): Cori Hustedt, Executive Director of Student Services Fort Mill School District 2233 Deerfield Drive Fort Mill, SC 29715 (803) 548-8488	Non-discrimination Inquiries (Students and Families – Disability Inquiries): Dr. Amy Maziarz, Senior Executive Director of Special Services Fort Mill School District 2233 Deerfield Drive Fort Mill, SC 29715 (803) 548-8038	Non-discrimination Inquires (Employees): Peter Olinger, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Fort Mill School District 2233 Deerfield Drive Fort Mill, SC 29715 (803) 548-2527
Additional information regarding non-discrimination policies may be obtained from:	Washington DC (Metro) Office for Civil Rights U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-1475	Telephone: 202-453-6020 FAX: 202-453-6021; TDD: 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.DC@ed.gov

 

VISITORS TO SCHOOL

Visitors and volunteers must enter by the front door and stop by the office.  Security doors to other parts of the building will be opened by an office person after the visitors log in at the computer and scan their driver’s license or official government-issued identification.  Security procedures require that badges of visitors/volunteers must be visible at all times.  Visitors must always sign in at the office and obtain this visitor badge before going to a classroom, lunchroom or school grounds.  This ensures all students’ safety by letting office and classroom personnel know who is in the building.  You are welcome to visit the cafeteria during your child’s lunch time or in the building during special events such as the book fair and classroom programs.  To ensure uninterrupted instruction time, parents will be allowed in the classroom only at the request of the teacher.  No school-age child, relative or friend may visit in your child's class; however, they are welcome to visit during lunch time.  Please be aware that if you visit your child for lunch, only your child is allowed to join you at a visitors’ table.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

Safety of our students and staff is an extremely important priority for us here at Flint Hill Elementary. We work closely with local law enforcement and first responders to create a safe learning environment for each individual.

1. Fire drills are held at least once a month.
2. Tornado and earthquake drills are held periodically.
3. Lock down and emergency procedure drills will take place at least twice a year.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT FLINT HILL ELEMENTARY  

VISITING FOR LUNCH

In order to ensure that enough food is prepared, please send a note to the teacher if you plan to have lunch with your child.  This information is needed in the cafeteria before 9AM.  Parents planning to have lunch with their child should sign in and meet their child in the foyer as they go to the cafeteria.  Because the tables are designed for students, it is difficult for adults to sit on the bench with the class. We ask that all lunch guests sit with your child at the tables that are around the perimeter of the cafeteria. Please be aware that if you visit your child for lunch, only your child is allowed to join you at a visitors’ table. Due to increased security protocols and limited seating, parents and guardians may join their child during their lunch period up to four times per year per child. Visitors coming for lunch should limit the number of adults to two per visit.

We are excited to allow parents in for lunch. Parent lunches will begin starting Monday, August 25th or after. We will also have to close lunches during testing windows and other school events.

STUDENT NUTRITION

“FOOD FOR THOUGHT!”

Our cafeteria staff serves breakfast and lunch every school day. Breakfast is an important start to our student’s day and it is served in the classroom. Lunch is served in the cafeteria daily. Menus, nutritional and allergen information are available on our website (fmsdstudentnutrition.com) and teachers post the menu in the classroom. There is also a free App available for your smartphone called LINQ Connect. Menus are planned by a Registered Dietitian and include input from parents, staff and students.  The menus must meet dietary guidelines that include calorie, saturated fat, sugar, and sodium restrictions.  We believe in giving students a variety of healthy options and we offer several fruits and vegetable choices daily.

• A lunch meal includes foods from the five food groups- 2 oz of grains,  2 oz of protein, 1/2 cup fruit, 1/2 cup vegetable, 1 cup of milk.  Students may choose all of five groups or at the minimum three food groups out of the five. One choice must be 1/2 cup of a fruit or a vegetable. Students have the option to select up to a cup of fruit and a cup of vegetable with their meal.
• A breakfast meal includes 4 items and students must select 3 of the 4 items and one choice must be a fruit.
• If a student does not take the required food components, then each item on the tray must be charged at a la carte pricing. Our cafeteria staff reminds students to take the required food groups.
• The cafeteria also offers extra sale items like milk, juice, water and snacks to purchase. If you do not want your student to purchase extra sale items, please complete the online form Opt Out for Snacks and Extras.
• All foods served by the cafeteria meets State and Federal guidelines.
• Our kitchens are tree nut and peanut safe.

PIN NUMBER

Each student is set up with a unique meal account identification number to use in the cafeteria to purchase breakfast, lunch and ala carte items. This is a 6 digit number and is the last 6 digits of your student’s PowerSchool number.  This number should never be shared with other students. Please help your student memorize their pin number.

MEAL PAYMENTS

Please take advantage of the options to prepay for your student's meals. Prepaid meal accounts help the lunch lines go faster and gives students more time to eat, relax, and play. It also gives you the peace of mind of not having to worry about meal money every day or that the money might get lost, stolen or used for items other than meals.

There are three easy ways to pay for meals and extras.

• Online via the district website’s Pay Fees lunch card features Quick Pay  . This is a free service for adding money to your student’s meal account. You are also able to see meal purchases and balances. You can set up email alerts for balances on Parent Portal.
• By a separate check made out to your school’s cafeteria. The check should not include other school fees. Please note the child's cafeteria account number on the check - if the check is written for more than one child, each child's account number and the amount to credit to each child should be noted on the check. The check must include a phone number.
• Cash is also accepted as payment but is strongly discouraged as it can be lost.
• Transfer of funds from one sibling to another is also available by completing this form: Transfer form

MEAL PRICING

Meal prices are set to cover the cost of food and labor.  Our department is self funded and our goal is to break even at the end of the school year. We depend on our students paying for their meals.  If you are unable to pay for your meals, please apply for free and reduced priced meals.

Breakfast=$1.85	Reduced Breakfast Price $ 0.30	Free to students who qualify for free
Lunch=$3.00	Reduced Lunch Price: $0.40	Free to students who qualify for free
The price for adult breakfast is $3.35; adult lunch is $5.65.

FREE AND REDUCED MEAL APPLICATION PROGRAM

Our district participates in the USDA Free and Reduced Meal Program. We encourage families to apply if they meet or fall at or below the income guidelines found on each application. Applications are printed in English and Spanish and we can provide any language needed. If another language is needed, please contact our office at 803.802.1968.

To qualify for free or reduced priced meals, students must complete a meal application and have it approved. Applications are available in the school office, cafeteria, district website and you can apply online at https://linqconnect.com/public/meal-application/new . Students must reapply each year.

CHARGE POLICY

Our cafeteria does not deny students meals and we allow students to charge meals up to $15. Automated calls, emails and letters are sent out weekly for students who owe the cafeteria money. Our cafeterias depend on meal payments to provide funding for our program.

FOOD ALLERGIES & SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS

Due to the number of food allergies, homemade or home baked foods are not allowed to be distributed to students within the classroom or applicable classroom setting.  Acceptable foods for distribution are those items that were prepared in a commercial and/or licensed kitchen, and most importantly, are packaged with a label clearly listing the contents and ingredients of the food item.  This policy (Board Policy J LCDD)is designed to provide consistency and minimize allergy risks in all classrooms, while maintaining a safe and positive learning environment for all students.   If you wish to “play it safe” the best option is to refrain from sending in food and opt for pencils, erasers, stickers, etc…

Students with Special Dietary Needs will need to have documentation of their diet changes signed by a medical provider. Please contact the school nurse for the forms to complete.

WELLNESS POLICY

Our district has a Wellness Policy (Board Policy ADF and EFE). Information on the wellness policy and how you can be a part of this committee can be found here -FMSD Wellness Policy info .

CLASSROOM CELEBRATION BASKETS

Let us help make celebrating your child’s birthday or any special occasion at school easier.
Order a Classroom Celebration Basket from the Cafeteria and we’ll take care of everything.
Celebration treats will be delivered to your child’s classroom on the date you specify. Complete the Celebration Basket Form and add money to your student’s account to purchase a basket.

CLASSROOM CELEBRATIONS

Due to a large number of food allergies, homemade or home baked foods are not allowed to be distributed to students within the classroom or applicable classroom setting.  Acceptable foods for distribution are those items that were prepared in a commercial and/or licensed kitchen, and most importantly, are packaged with a label clearly listing the contents and ingredients of the food item.  Please be mindful that if your child is in an allergy classroom, food brought in may not be allowed to go to the cafeteria and/or classroom depending upon the ingredient list.  For example, if there is a peanut allergy in your child’s classroom, the packaging must clearly state that it does not contain peanuts.  With the continued rise in severe and often life-threatening food allergies, this policy is designed to provide consistency and minimize allergy risks in all classrooms district-wide, while maintaining a safe and positive learning environment for all students.  If you wish to “play it safe” the best option is to refrain from sending in food and opt for pencils, erasers, stickers, etc. If you wish to purchase a birthday snack from the cafeteria, you can fill out the Classroom Celebration Basket request form.  All snacks sent in from home will be distributed in the classroom by the teacher, not in the cafeteria. Chewing gum is not permitted in school unless it is otherwise noted in a child’s individual plan.

Parents need to communicate with the classroom teacher in advance about snacks and birthday treats being brought in. Once the teacher has been notified, parents can bring snacks/treats to the front office where our receptionist will coordinate with the teacher when and where they will be distributed.

PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO) AND CLASSROOM VOLUNTEERS

Our school encourages your participation in PTO sponsored activities during this year.  Our PTO is an extension of the school family, and is dedicated to the support of instructional programs, teaching/learning, and safety.  This important group has one major fund-raiser each year (Fox Trot). In addition, the PTO needs volunteers to help with special programs and serve on committees.  Please consider volunteering your time to assist this organization in helping all classrooms, teachers, and students through their many beneficial projects.

Many parents and grandparents like to help in the classroom, and we value your assistance.   In order to provide a learning environment free from distractions, we ask that volunteers dress in a manner appropriate for the classroom, make other arrangements for younger siblings, check in at the office, turn off cell phones, and avoid unscheduled conferences. Volunteers should plan to attend the volunteer orientation, if they haven’t already.  Because the maintenance of copying machines can be expensive, we require that volunteers be trained by a Flint Hill staff member before using any school machines.  

Visitors and volunteers must enter by the front door and stop by the office.  Opportunities where we may have visitors include school programs, parent-teacher conferences, book fairs and other special events. Security doors to other parts of the building will be opened by an office person after the visitors log in at the computer and scan their driver’s license or official government-issued identification.  Security procedures require that badges of visitors/volunteers must be visible at all times.  Visitors must always sign in at the office and obtain this visitor badge before entering the school building. This ensures all students’ safety by letting office and classroom personnel know who is in the building.  The school will communicate events that allow parents to attend in a safe and controlled manner.

All volunteers in the building, such as making copies, working with students and chaperones for off-campus field trips MUST first be approved by our district-wide background check. This check typically takes approximately 2 weeks to complete and may be initiated by completing the Volunteer form. Once approved, chaperone status is in effect for 3 years.

Due to increased security protocols and limited seating, parents and guardians may join their child during their lunch period up to four times per year per child. Visitors coming for lunch should limit the number of adults to two per visit.

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL

All elementary schools have a School Improvement Council made up of teachers, parents, and administrators that will help to facilitate communications between the community and the school. Officers of the PTO may be elected to serve on the School Improvement Council. Additional members will be elected later in the fall.

CLASSROOM COMMUNICATION

Messages can be taken for students and teachers, but it is not always possible to deliver them immediately.  Parents wishing to confer with teachers on the phone are requested to limit their calls to before or after school hours, as teachers cannot leave their classes for telephone conferences between 7:20am and 2:25pm.  Students wishing to call home may use the school phone for health and transportation EMERGENCIES ONLY.  Forgotten snacks, improper shoes for physical education and assignments left at home do not constitute an emergency.  

The main job for our teachers is to provide quality instruction in a safe environment.  In addition, all Fort Mill Elementary Schools have a schedule of duties for teachers.  Each teacher has a short planning time on most days.  Because teachers are busy teaching and planning, please do not expect an immediate response to an e-mail that you send. A teacher may not check e-mail until school is out, so you should send any change in afternoon transportation plans to our receptionist, greggm@fortmillschools.org.  

CURRICULUM INFORMATION

Flint Hill Elementary has a rigorous academic program that aligns with the SC College and Career Readiness standards, and utilizes best practices in instruction. Curriculum offerings include language arts (reading, literature, oral language, composition, handwriting, and spelling), science, mathematics, social studies, art, music, physical education, and technology.  Teachers plan together to create long range, unit, and daily lesson plans which address the SC standards.

A hallmark of our instruction is the use of guided small groups, with the focus on differentiating for the needs of all learners.  We utilize a workshop approach for reading.  In math, we utilize a hands-on guided math approach with a focus on understanding concepts as the foundation for higher math. Our social studies and science programs are hands-on and focus on creating meaning for students through a variety of learning activities.

CUSTODY

A change in custody will require new custody papers and a change of address will require a new proof of residency. If you are separated or divorced, we need to have a copy of your custody papers on file.  If at any time you feel that a problem of abduction may occur, we need to have immediate knowledge of this in the school office.  

STUDENT CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES/Smart Watches

Student cell phones and smart watches should be kept in a book bag.  Electronic devices, including cell phones, must be turned off during the school day and while on the school grounds.  A cell phone may not be used during the day to play games or to text message.  The student may not use a cell phone to call or text a parent during the school day.

o    First Offense: Student warning and email sent home to parents

o    Second Offense: Device is taken by teacher for the day and parents are contacted

o  Third Offense: Device is given to administration and parents will need to pick up the device from the office.

The use of e-readers may be permitted under the supervision of the teacher.  It is a privilege for students to use their personal electronic device at school, and this privilege can be taken away if students act irresponsibly or violate school policy.

INCLEMENT WEATHER

The decision to close or delay schools will be made by 6:00am.  Announcements will be made via Blackboard®, and on WRHI AM radio,  CN2, and Charlotte TV stations (WSOC, WBTV, WSOC).  Delays and closings will be posted on the district website  www.fortmillschools.org and available at the district office phone number 548-2527. Information will be listed for FORT MILL SCHOOL DISTRICT #4, not York County Schools.  No breakfast will be served if school is delayed.  When weather is threatening, please be sure your child and the teacher know how he/she is to get home if school is dismissed early.  The Blackboard® phone system (803-548-8379) will leave messages about changes of schedules.  In order for you to receive these messages, we must have your up-to-date phone number and e-mail address in our PowerSchool database. It is the parent’s responsibility to contact after-school care to learn about their procedures.

ASSEMBLIES AND PERFORMANCES

Our first commitment is to classroom instruction.  Assembly programs and performances are sometimes an important part of the educational program.  It is expected that an atmosphere of respect will be maintained throughout all assemblies by presenters, participants, and members of the audience.  When visitors come to the school, it is expected that they will demonstrate polite behavior and be role models for students by staying for the entire program to avoid disruption.  For example, if attending a performance, please do not get up and leave as soon as your child’s part is over.

BOOK BAGS

Book bags are required at school. However, rolling book bags are not permitted without a written recommendation of a physician.

LOST AND FOUND

Items found at school are turned into the Lost and Found area in the cafeteria.  Parents and students are encouraged to check this area if they are missing any items.  Several times a year when the area is overflowing, we take items not claimed to a local clothing closet. Please put your child's name on clothes, lunch boxes, notebooks, etc.

SCHOOL FEES

Students must settle all fees and property owed to the school prior to the end of the school year.  This includes library books, textbooks, and teacher materials.

Fort Mill School District has implemented an online payment process.  Our goal is to keep cash and checks out of the schools and classrooms.  The online system is set up to accept payment for registration fees, lunch accounts, activity fees (i.e. field trips) and classroom fees (i.e. class t-shirts, Kindergarten snack, magazine subscriptions and yearbooks).

• Click on ‘$ Pay Fees’ on the school home page or go to https://www.studentquickpay.com/fort-mill/ and you will be able to see current fees and your child’s lunch account.  If you have not created an account and need your child’s student ID, please call the school office.

DELIVERIES

The school will not accept nor deliver to students any items before, during, or after school unless it is their lunch, of an educational nature/value, or medically necessary.  When sending balloons or flowers to a child, please use his/her home address. Do not send these items to the school.  District procedures do not allow these items on a bus.

MEDICAL INFORMATION

IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

All students in grades Pre-kindergarten through 12 are required to furnish a valid South Carolina Certificate of Immunization prior to enrollment.  School officials shall record the immunization data on the student’s health record and/or attach a copy of the certificate to the health record. For more information from DHEC, see this link.

HEALTH SERVICES

Parents will be notified if a student becomes ill or is injured during school.  When it is necessary for the student to leave school, a parent, guardian, or designated alternate must sign the student out in the office. The health and well-being of all students is of utmost importance.  We will request that you pick up your child if his/her medical condition is unstable, or if he/she is not capable of participating in the daily school activities. This decision is based upon an assessment conducted by the school nurse. In addition, the school must also follow the DHEC School Exclusion List for specific medical conditions to be in compliance with SC State Health guidelines.

If a student brings medication to school, the following requirements must be met:

 PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION

1. The Medication Consent Form must be completed and turned in with the medication.  The form must be signed by the doctor and the parent.
2. Prescription medicines must be in the pharmacy container with your child’s name on it. (Ask your pharmacist for an extra bottle in order to divide the prescription between home and school.)
3. Parents must deliver all medications to school.
4. The medication must carry a prescription label with the following information: a.Child’s name   b. Name of drug   c. dosage instructions  d. doctor name  e. CURRENT prescription date
5. Medication will be kept in a locked cabinet in the office at all times.
6. School personnel will give medication only with a completed form signed by the parent and the doctor.
7. Medication must not be sent with a child on the bus or with a child walking to school.

OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION

1. The Medication Consent Form must be completed, signed by the parent and turned in with the medication when the parent brings it to the office.
2. The over-the-counter medication must be in the original container or box (not in a plastic bag).
3. The following items will be available in the health room for first aid treatment of your child during the school day: Saline eye wash, Vaseline, Hydrocortisone 1% cream, and Aloe Vera.  If you do not wish for your child to be treated with these items, please send a written note to the nurse including your child’s name, the teacher’s name, the date, and your signature.

              4.    NO other medications are supplied by the school.

NOTE:  ASPIRIN OR PRODUCTS CONTAINING ASPIRIN CANNOT BE GIVEN OUT WITHOUT A DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION.

CONTAGIOUS DISEASES

Students with contagious diseases are not allowed to attend school.  Children should be kept at home if they have experienced vomiting or fever during the night.  Students should be fever free for 24 hours without using medicine to bring the temperature down before returning to school.

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

If medical emergencies arise, the school nurse and school administrator will enact medical care deemed appropriate to the student (i.e. call 911 or transport the student to the hospital). In these cases, the schools will make every attempt to contact the parent/guardian. Please be sure to keep your student's emergency information updated with correct phone numbers.  If a parent/guardian is out of town and has left their child in the care of another adult, written documentation should be on file with the school. This documentation will authorize the school to contact the alternate person in case of illness or a medical emergency.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical education is required by the state for all students unless the student has an excuse from a physician due to a physical disability.  If a child must be excused for a temporary illness, a note from a parent or doctor must be sent with the child.  Any illness extending more than a week must be excused by a doctor.  Children must wear athletic shoes to participate in Physical Education.

HOMEBOUND

Students who experience extended illness or injuries that result in long term absence from school may apply for homebound instruction.  Information concerning homebound may be obtained from our assistant principal, Meg Niblock niblockm@fortmillschools.org.

RISK ASSESSMENTS

The safety and security of all students is of utmost importance to our faculty and staff. Should a concern arise about a student being a danger to him/herself or others, District protocols for conducting a risk assessment (suicide and/or threat) will be followed to the extent appropriate. These assessments may include interviews with students and staff, a review of student records, and consultation with district mental health staff, local law enforcement, or other community agencies that help support our schools and students. If, as part of its assessment and response, the District determines there is an articulated and significant threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals, it may disclose personally identifiable information from education records to any person whose knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals.

RESTRAINT

For the purposes of these guidelines, physical restraint is defined as a personal restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability of an individual to move his or her arms, legs, or head freely.  This definition encompasses mechanical restraints, further defined as a device that restricts the movement or function of a child or a portion of a child’s body.

Restraint, as defined by these guidelines, does not include the following:  

1.  temporarily holding an individual to help him or her participate in education or daily living activities;
2. escorting techniques, where a student is provided limited physical encouragement to help him or her move from one location to another without rising to the level of physically forcing compliance (e.g., hand on the back or a hand on the elbow);
3.  chemical restraints (medication for safety or behavioral supports) determined by medical personnel;
4.  appropriate use of adaptive equipment or products, provided they are used in accordance with manufacturers’ recommended usage.

a. Adaptive equipment may include, but is not limited to, adaptive seating products or therapeutically prescribed devices such as weighted vests.

b. If adaptive equipment, such as a Rifton chair or weighted vest is used for the purpose of limiting mobility or as a punitive measure, its use constitutes restraint.

The use of restraint is limited to emergency situations where the behavior of the student poses a threat of imminent, serious, physical harm to self and/or others and the student has the ability to cause such harm.  Restraint may be used only as a last resort after proper positive behavioral interventions and de-escalation techniques have failed to de-escalate the risk of injury.

Restraint should never be used:

1. as punishment

2. to force compliance or address non-compliance

 3. as a substitute for appropriate educational support

 4. in response to property destruction

 5. in response to a student’s flight, escape, or running away, unless there is imminent risk of injury related to the escape

 6. in response to verbal threats and profanity that do not rise to the level of physical harm unless the student demonstrates a means of carrying out the threats

 7. longer than needed to resolve the risk of actual harm.

The use of prone restraints (face down on stomach) with the exception of approved Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) endorsed floor restraints, supine restraints (face up on the back), or any hold or maneuver that places pressure or weight on the student’s chest, lungs, sternum, diaphragm, back, neck, or throat are strictly forbidden.  Moreover, the degree of force used must not exceed what is necessary to protect the student or others from imminent bodily injury.

Necessary Documentation & Review: The use of restraint in the school setting triggers the district’s obligation to create and maintain specific documentation regarding the incident.  Documentation must include:

1. actions attempted prior to the restraint in an effort to manage or de-escalate the situation

2. a clear description of the safety concerns posed to the student or others

3. student’s behavior before, during, and after restraint

4. location of the restraint

 5. amount of time in restraint

 6. a description of the physical restraint techniques used and training personnel received prior to implementing restraint

 7. names and position titles of personnel involved with the incident

 8. date and time the administrator was notified

 9. date and time the parents were notified and by whom

 10. name and position of person(s) completing the documentation.

Training: Restraint training must be provided, and reviewed, at least annually, by a credentialed trainer through a nationally recognized, externally developed professional training program.  The training must include the following components:

1. prevention of behavior problems through a positive behavioral support climate

 2. conflict prevention and conflict management skills

 3. de-escalation skills that enable staff members to respond to students in ways more likely to calm, rather than escalate, the situation

 4. information on physical and emotional risks of escalation and restraint

 5. instruction on personal safety skills for staff who work with students who are more likely to present safety concerns

 6. prohibition on the use of prone restraints (face down on stomach) with the exception of approved Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) endorsed floor restraints, supine restraints (face up on the back), or any hold or maneuver that places pressure or weight on the student’s chest, lungs, sternum, diaphragm, back, neck, or throat.

The training program used must include some method of assessment that ensures appropriate skills are in place.  The program must also provide documentation that a participant has successfully completed the training, either through a certificate or other credential.  Fort Mill Schools must keep a list of those who have completed training, including a description of the content of the training, on file.  The school district retains discretion as to which personnel should receive restraint training.  However, training must be provided to enough staff members that the school district can ensure a sufficient number of staff is available if restraint is used.

REHABILITATIVE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES

A mental health worker from Rehabilitative Behavioral Health Services sees children on-site that qualify for the services of that agency.  Teachers or parents may refer children.  Parent permission is required for service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE

Click on this link to our Ci3T (Comprehensive Integrated 3 Tiered Model of Prevention). Our Ci3T manual outlines our academic, behavioral and social practices and expectations.

STUDENT CONDUCT

 Everyone in our building has the right to be treated with dignity, courtesy, and respect. Every child has the right to learn in a positive classroom environment. Every teacher has the right to teach all students without disruptions. The secret to discipline – we will develop relationships with our students so they know we truly care about them as an individual. As we invest in student relationships, discipline will be more effective.

Flint Hill School-wide Expectations

All students at FHES are expected to follow the same expectations throughout the school.  The matrix that teachers and staff will teach and implement is in all classrooms and settings around the school.

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports

As students follow our school wide behavioral expectations, students will have the opportunity to earn tickets. The students will be able to manage their own tickets and decide how to exchange tickets for a variety of rewards. Some examples include: tangible rewards, jobs in the classroom, school wide responsibilities, etc.

Character Program and Behavior Expectations

We have high behavior expectations for all. At Flint Hill Elementary, students are  recognized for the positive things that they do each and every day. Individual and class incentives are used to reward students who exhibit good behavior. Notes, emails, and phone calls are some of the ways our teachers and administration communicates positive behavior home. Students are also chosen each month for our Character Cub program.

A specific focus on Cub Culture behaviors and expectations will be taught, modeled and expected:

• Having Respect
• Being Kind
• Showing Responsibility

As part of our school’s plan to promote a positive, caring, and safe learning community which includes high expectations for respectful and responsible choices by all, we teach, reinforce and strengthen our Cub Culture character value of being kind, having respect, and showing responsibility.

DISCIPLINE

In order for students to have a positive school experience, an atmosphere of good behavior must be maintained; we expect our children to behave properly. While each child is responsible for his or her own behavior, we encourage parental support of the school expectations.  In the event that a student is sent to the office for a discipline referral, parents will be notified by an administrator.  Depending upon the nature of the problem, some possible consequences for inappropriate actions include parent conferences, denial of privileges, and in school or out of school suspension. Student actions that disrupt class work, involve substantial disorder, or invade the rights of others could be a basis for out of school suspension or expulsion. Examples of these student actions or major offenses are: theft, fighting, possession of weapons, damage to school property, assault of school personnel, defiance of school authority, profanity, etc.

Students are to report problems with other students immediately and are expected not to retaliate.  Any student participating in a disruption - regardless of who started the argument, fight, etc. - will be subject to consequences. Parents will be contacted regarding repeated or major problems.

We have high behavior expectations for all. Flint Hill Elementary follows a behavior matrix consisting of clearly defined expectations which are consistently and fairly enforced throughout the building. Individual and class incentives may be used to reward students who exhibit good behavior. Interventions such as verbal warnings, checklists, buddy room, mediation, taking away privileges, parent contact and/or conference, in school suspensions, and out of school suspensions may be used with students who do not follow the expectations. Reactive Plan

BULLYING

While every effort will be made to shape behavior through positive reinforcement, we must all keep in mind that every child should have the right to study, participate in class, and work in a safe environment.  Name calling, intimidation, threats, and disrespectful attitudes toward classmates, volunteers, school staff members, or visitors is not acceptable.  Bullying is intentional aggressive behavior. It can take the form of physical or verbal harassment and involves an imbalance of power.  It is not acceptable for a child to draw, write, or make threatening statements online or in person. Bullying is also an ongoing pattern of behavior, not a one-time occurrence. This behavior will be addressed through disciplinary action at the discretion of the school administrator, as per FMSD Board Policy JICFAA.

Please be aware that School Board policy and South Carolina Code 59-24-60 require school officials to contact law enforcement officers when a student engages in any activity that may or does result in injury or serious threat of injury to a person or property.

Parents are asked to support the schools in their effort to maintain discipline and high standards of conduct.  At the beginning of each school year teachers and administrators discuss with students behavior expectations, but parents are requested to discuss with children the importance and the need for good behavior and a positive attitude at school, too.  Children must learn self-discipline in order to become effective learners and good citizens.  With home-school cooperation, an environment in which all students are safe, secure, and able to learn can be created and maintained.

SCHOOL COUNSELORS

The School Counseling program strives to prepare all students for academic, social/emotional, and career success by providing data-driven, comprehensive school counseling programming. School Counselors teach core curriculum to all students to support academic, social/emotional, and career development. They offer small group and short-term individual counseling services as needed to support student success in the school environment. School counselors do not provide long-term counseling or therapy and will refer parents to outside resources for ongoing issues or issues beyond the scope of school counseling (trauma, mental health, family dynamic, etc). Parents can refer students to the school counselor by reaching out to their child’s school counselor via phone or email or in person by appointment. Students can self-refer by writing a note to the school counselor and placing it in the school counselors’ secure student mailbox. Students may inform their teacher that they would like to see the school counselor in which case the teacher would put in a referral on behalf of the student. School counselors are available to consult and collaborate with teachers and parents to help students achieve school success. They can provide information about community resources for families as well as recommendations for books or online resources upon request.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

Safety of our students and staff is an extremely important priority for us here at Flint Hill Elementary.  We work closely with local law enforcement and first responders to create a safe learning environment for each individual.

• Fire drills are held at least once a month.

• Tornado drills and Earthquake drills are held yearly.

• Lock down and emergency procedure drills will also take place at least two times a year.

DRESS CODE

Students are expected to dress in a manner appropriate for the learning environment. Students are expected to dress in clothing that abides the district dress code policy. Logos or clothing that promotes alcohol, drugs, tobacco, racism, hate, gang affiliation, nudity, or profanity is not allowed. No clothing or accessories are allowed to disrupt the educational process. The administration reserves the right to determine what is appropriate for school.

In the interests of health, safety, cleanliness, decency, and decorum, students will follow these guidelines as identified in Board Policy JICA-R.

Grades K through Five

Proper shoes must be worn at all times for safety reasons. Shoes with cleats may not be worn.

Logos or clothing that promotes alcohol, drugs, tobacco, racism, hate, gang affiliation, nudity, or profanity is not allowed. No clothing or accessories are allowed to disrupt the educational process. The administration reserves the right to determine what is appropriate for school.

Students may wear shorts, dresses, skirts, etc. which are of appropriate length. Tops must be long enough that they can be tucked into pants or shorts. Basketball jerseys must be worn with an appropriate garment (i.e. tee shirt). No headwear (hats, caps, hoods, etc.) or sunglasses may be worn in the building.

The following items are not appropriate for school:

• flip flops
• spaghetti straps
• tattered or torn clothing
• underwear that is visible
• tank tops
• muscle shirts
• t-backs and cross-backs

Violations will result in the following:

First and Subsequent Offenses: phone call to parent

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Flint Hill Elementary recognizes the importance of being a well-rounded individual.  In order to help students reach their potential, several opportunities await every child as he/she enters the doors of SCES.  Whether just beginning his/her educational journey or nearing completion, Flint Hill Elementary has something to offer all students.

Throughout our school, one will find many activities, clubs, and service organizations.  Many groups have membership based on performance criteria, and others have open membership based on common interest or enjoyment.  Whatever your choice, FHES can help meet your needs.  Activities vary from year to year based on student interest and the availability of teacher supervision.  

PERFECT ATTENDANCE

The school recognizes students who have perfect attendance. Recognition for perfect attendance for the year will accompany the final report card.

INVITATIONS

Parents/students cannot hand out invitations to out-of-school birthday parties or get-togethers unless every child in the homeroom class receives an invitation.

Classroom Activities/Celebrations – Acceptable Food Guidelines:  Homemade or home baked foods are not allowed to be distributed to students within the classroom or applicable classroom setting.  Acceptable foods for distribution are those items that were prepared in a commercial and/or licensed kitchen, and most importantly, are packaged with a label clearly listing the contents and ingredients of the food item.  With the continued rise in severe and often life-threatening food allergies, this policy is designed to provide consistency and minimize allergy risks in all classrooms district-wide, while maintaining a safe and positive learning environment for all students. It is important to note that the policy does not apply to a student’s personal lunch.

CLASSROOM PERFORMANCE AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

HIGH EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

As part of each student’s intellectual development, the administration and staff of Flint Hill Elementary School set high standards each year for its students in the areas of academic achievement.  We encourage our students to do their best in their schoolwork so that each child can achieve his/her personal best.  We also support homework as part of the learning experience.  Good citizenship and leadership are also recognized.

HOMEWORK SCHOOL POLICY

• Homework will be reinforcement activities; no new skills or material will be introduced as part of homework.
• Written homework will be such that it can be completed with a minimum of parental help.
• Teachers will send home completed classwork/homework for parental review and support.
• The teacher will check written homework assignments with pre-established consequences for noncompliance.
• Homework assignments should be such that they can be completed within a reasonable length of time taking into consideration the age and ability level of the children
• In addition, children are expected to read daily as part of their homework assignments.

HOMEWORK SUGGESTIONS FOR PARENTS

1.   Designate a homework spot and time and be available to assist if help is needed.

2.  Encourage your child to write down assignments and check on a daily basis to see what homework is due.

3.  When assistance is needed, talk your child through the problem or question until he/she can find the solution.

4.  Help your child check his homework and discuss specific problem areas.

5.  Be observant of signs of problems and if homework becomes too challenging, meet with your child's teacher.

6.  Remember to help your child balance household responsibilities, play, and study.

7.  Review the classwork that the teacher sends home.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION OF STUDENTS

Every parent and teacher would like for students to move along successfully through each grade. Our goal is to take each child, evaluate their skills at the beginning of the year, and provide instruction to ensure academic growth throughout the year.  Please examine student work that is returned for your review because it will help you to see how your child is progressing.  Parent conferences in October will provide you with another opportunity to discuss your child’s progress.  

State law requires that the school send a letter at the end of the second quarter (usually January) and at the end of the 3rd quarter (usually in March or early April) to alert parents of the possibility of retention for a student.  The final decision will be made in May, but the letters give parents a chance to work together with the teacher to make the progress needed to meet state standards for their grade.  If you receive a retention letter, it does not mean that your child will be held back because we continue to hope that she/he will improve and be ready for the next grade.  Retention can often be prevented by making sure the child completes and turns in all assignments, examining the possibility of health issues which may affect classroom performance, providing a routine time and place for the child to study daily, reading daily with the student, and making sure children have enough sleep.  If you are unsure of what your child needs to know to pass, you can visit the state website at http://www.ed.sc.gov and search for curriculum standards, or ask your child’s teacher or administrator for the information.  Many things are taken into account in determining if a child is ready for the next grade: attendance, mastery of state standards, knowledge of the English language, age, physical size, intellectual ability, previous grade placement, behavior, maturity, level of achievement, motivation and disabilities are all considered.  A Light’s Retention Scale is a normed assessment used by elementary schools in Fort Mill to assist with making this important decision. Review Board Policy IKE-R Promotion And Retention Of Students for additional information.

PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES

Academic achievement will be graded using a numerical grading scale to denote respectively, excellent, good, average, poor, and failing. The numerical ranges for grades will be as follows:

Kindergarten through second grade will be using a Standards Based Report Card. The letter will be used to denote participation in certain related arts classes.  

The letter S-satisfactory or N-needs improvement will be used to denote participation in certain related arts classes.  

FMSD Grading Key

Please remember that as the school year progresses, expectations increase.

REASSESSMENT

• Summative assessments will be reassessed.
• Projects will not be reassessed.
• Scores below 90 can have an opportunity for a retake for full credit up to a 90, meaning a student reassessing can’t earn above a 90.
• D’s and F’s will be required to retake.  B’s and C’s will have the option.
• Students will have the opportunity for a reteach and one retake on each assessment that is eligible to retake.
• PLT grade level discretion on whether a retake is using the same questions or new questions.

• Error Analysis on Multiple Choice

PARENT PORTAL

Schools in Fort Mill use a computer program called PARENT PORTAL to post grades.  By logging on to this secure program, parents will be able to check the grades of their students in grades 3-5.  Teachers will post grades within 2 weeks of the due date of the task.  

All users will need access to the student's Powerschool number. If you are unable to locate your student’s Powerschool number, please contact Donna Vidt at vidtd@fortmillschools.org and she will be happy to assist.

If you would like to view the report card in its entirety please utilize the desktop version of Parent Portal.  Report cards will only be printed and issued to parents if the parents/guardians request a paper copy.  Otherwise, please access your child’s grades using the Parent Portal.

Progress reports will ONLY be printed and issued to parents of 3rd-5th grade students IF the parents/guardians request a paper copy.  Otherwise, please access your child’s grades using the Parent Portal.  Kindergarten through second grade will be using a Standards Based Report Card.  All K-5 grades will be issued report cards on a 9 weeks grading period  as an indication of their progress and confirmation of their achievement and are expected to take them home to share with their parents.

A parent-teacher conference day will be scheduled in the first semester.  These conferences are an opportunity to learn about your child’s strengths and areas needing improvement. You need to make an appointment with the teacher to discuss your child’s progress.  Teachers are also available to meet with you before or after school if you make an appointment. Additional conferences may be requested by families or school personnel.

ANNUAL ASSESSMENTS AND SCREENERS

Updated Version 2025 - 2026

Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA) | A state readiness test given individually to kindergarten students within the first 45 days of school. Readiness skills include: Social foundations, language/literacy, math, & physical well being.

STAR Reading & Math | STAR Reading & Math is a standards-based, computer-adaptive assessment that measures students’ reading & math comprehension. These assessments are administered throughout the year and provide teachers formative data to guide instructional decisions in the classroom throughout the school year.

STAR CBM Oral Reading Fluency | A tool to measure a student's reading rate and accuracy by having them read aloud from an unfamiliar passage for one minute. This assessment is given to 1st grade students three times a year.

DIBELS Oral Reading Fluency | A tool to measure a student's reading rate and accuracy by having them read aloud from an unfamiliar passage for one minute. This assessment is given to 2nd grade through 5th grade students three times a year.

Concepts About Print Assessment (CAPs) | A foundations of literacy skill assessment on understanding how print works given individually to kindergarten students three times a year.

Phonological Awareness (PAST) | An informal, diagnostic tool that assesses a child's understanding of phonological awareness given to Kindergarten through 2nd grade students three times a year and 3rd through 5th grade as needed.

CORE Phonics Assessment | A tool for identifying which phonics correspondences and patterns a student has learned, and which ones the student needs to be taught. THis assessment is given to Kindergarten three to four times a year

LETRS Spelling Screener | A tool that assesses students' spelling abilities by recording their encoding skills based on phoneme-grapheme correspondences and orthographic patterns. This assessment is given to Kindergarten through 5th grade students one to three times a year.

COGAT | An ability test usually administered in the fall of 2nd grade to select participants for the Gifted and Talented Math and English Language Arts instruction for grades 3-5.

Iowa Assessment | Iowa testing will only be administered to students in second grade. The assessment is used to assess achievement in math and reading subtests. Students receive a NPR (National Percentile Ranking) score that serves as an estimation of his/her instructional level and will also help select participants in the Gifted and Talented Math and ELA for grades 3-5.

SC Ready (May) | The South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Assessments (SC READY) are statewide assessments in English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, and Science (4th Grade). The SC READY Assessment items measure student performance on the 2015 South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Standards.

SRSS-IE Screener | A social-emotional screener for identifying internalizing and externalizing behaviors.

SC Ready (May) | The South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Assessments (SC READY) are statewide assessments in English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, and Science (4th Grade). The SC READY Assessment items measure student performance on the 2015 South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Standards.

SRSS-IE Screener | A social-emotional screener for identifying internalizing and externalizing behaviors

FHES  Student Handbook 25-26