GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

HISTORY OF PALM BEACH DAY ACADEMY

SCHOOL ORGANIZATION - The Board of Trustees, Administration/Support Staff, Faculty

PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES/ADMISSION -  Contract, Tuition & Fee Payments,  Tuition Refund Plan, Financial Assistance, Orientation

ATTENDANCE  -  Class Sessions; Drop off Times/Punctuality, Drop-Off, Open-Door Policy, Pick-Up Authorization, After Care

HEALTH INFORMATION - Health Forms, First Aid, Illness, Medication, Lice Policy

PARENT/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION - Parent/School Communication by e-mail, Classroom Observation, Class and School Meetings,  Parent/Teacher Conferences & Progress Reports

PARENT SCHOOL COUNCIL - PSC Mission, 2010-2011 Parent School Council

PARENT INVOLVEMENT/PROVIDING SUPPORT TO PBDA - Annual Support, Capital Gifts & Bequests, Corporate Matching Gifts

WEATHER EMERGENCIES

GENERAL INFORMATION - Field Trips, School Publications, Standardized Testing, Confidentiality, Food at School, Parties & Birthdays, Holidays, Personal Belongings and Toys, Extra Change of Clothes, Smoking on Campus

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

UNIFORM POLICY

DRESS CODE

THE FOLLOWING POLICIES APPLY TO STUDENTS AT THE       Return to Index

PALM BEACH DAY ACADEMY LOWER CAMPUS.

MISSION STATEMENT

Challenged to Excel

Empowered to Act

Prepared to Lead

 The foundation of the Palm Beach Day Academy's program is the education of our students in an academically challenging and compassion rich environment that guides each child toward personal excellence of mind, body and character.  Our graduates are empowered to fulfill their individual potentials in their immediate school futures and beyond.  As they move on, they will take with them the richness of our school family. They will have

• been inspired by an environment of thoughtful excellence, humble respect, mutual care and support, and the highest expectations.
• learned the value of focused thinking and sustained effort.
• developed keen minds that will have been shaped by the twin challenges of complex thought leading to articulate self-expression.
• learned to shake the hand of an opponent, with equal dignity in victory or defeat.
• learned to extend a hand with genuine compassion.
• gained an understanding of their responsibility for the health of our planet.
• developed a realistic sense of their self-worth and their place in a changing world.
• And, mostly, they will have gained a powerful, enduring confidence that can only belong to those who have met genuine challenges through their own efforts in a supportive community. It is a confidence that allows our graduates to meet future challenges, to persevere past setbacks and obstacles, to know their own minds yet allow for differing viewpoints, to adapt to changing circumstances, to be thoughtful, generous and kind, and to choose their own paths to meaningful lives.

CORE VALUES

We believe in encouraging children to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives - academics, athletics, the arts, society, and personal character.

 We believe that children learn best when they are honored as individuals in an environment that is both challenging and supportive.

 We believe the relationship and interaction between the teacher and student is one of the most powerful factors in a student's learning, and, therefore, PBDA recruits and supports the best and the brightest to teach our children. 

 We believe that the ability to communicate when speaking, writing, or listening is important in all academic settings as well as in multiple settings throughout a lifetime.

 We believe in the importance of understanding what it is to be a part of a community and to give to others.

 We believe in modeling and teaching traits such as integrity, honesty, and responsibility that encourage our students to make good choices and pursue lives of meaning.

 We believe our changing world requires us to prepare our children for a technological and global society.

 We believe that we can and should teach children to think critically and creatively and to develop their abilities to solve problems and make decisions in preparation for living in a democratic society.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES     Return to Index

 1.  Educational Program

The educational program, for pre-school through ninth grade, is dedicated to providing students with a learning experience that exemplifies our mission:  "The cornerstone of the school program is educating the minds and spirits of its students in a challenging, vibrant community that prizes academic excellence."  Following best practices, a broad and balanced curriculum is offered to educate students who will become open-minded, thoughtful, life-long learners and who will develop the critical thinking skills necessary to achieve success in an ever-changing world.  Our goal is to provide students with exceptional opportunities for academic development, intellectual growth, artistic and physical self-fulfillment, and moral awareness.

 Students are exposed to a comprehensive experience that requires diligence and provides challenge in all aspects.  The faculty sets high standards of academic and personal performance, tempered by the knowledge that emerges from an understanding of the individual student and developmental differences.  Given the students' diverse abilities, the school has academic approaches that meet individual needs.  These approaches also support and encourage students to study and grow in classes designed to meet their academic challenges.

 Our students will learn in a supportive and stimulating educational community which values respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, citizenship and compassion.  Our purpose is to graduate independent thinkers who are balanced individuals with intelligence and integrity, who are also aware that their future will be in a diverse, global community.

 2.  Students

Palm Beach Day Academy continues to attract an academically qualified and intellectually motivated student population with a wide range of talents.  Our school values diversity in culture, race, and socioeconomic status.  We expect and require respect for others as part of school life.  The school provides an atmosphere and program that fosters the development of socially responsible, compassionate, independent, critical thinkers.

 3.  Parents, Families and Community

Our parents and families are committed to promoting an active and successful partnership between families and the school in order to facilitate the understanding, support, and implementation of the mission of the school.  The school invites all families to participate in the life of the school in a spirit of mutual respect that enhances the experience of their children.

 4.  Faculty

The faculty is the primary reason for our school's superb national reputation.  The school recruits and maintains a diverse group of highly qualified educators.  The school is committed to providing a professional atmosphere in which teachers can practice their profession.  The faculty teaches and mentors the students as they develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically.  In order to attract, inspire and retain outstanding individuals, our teachers will be provided compensation and a teaching atmosphere that provides an excellent opportunity to continue their personal professional growth, according to the best practices of independent education.  In the process, they will be accorded appropriate respect, appreciation, and remuneration.  The faculty also is afforded the opportunity of an annual evaluation of their performance.

 5.  Administration and Staff

The school attracts and retains a diverse and effective team to supervise, organize, evaluate and support all aspects of the school's operation.  The administration, led by the Head of School, articulates the vision of the school's mission, communicates sensitively and capably, and is accessible to all constituencies.

 6.  Governance

Governance of the school is guided by its By-laws, which recognize the best practices recommended by the National Association of Independent Schools.  School Vision and Mission, School Philosophy, School Goals and Objectives, the appointment and evaluation of the school head and securing the school's future are the primary responsibilities of the Board of Trustees. Palm Beach Day Academy maintains an effective and diverse board of trustees through selection, education, and evaluation of board performance.  In the process, the school governance utilizes all appropriate resources to achieve the school's mission.  The board establishes effective communication with all school constituencies and clearly distinguishes respective roles of the trustees and school administration.

 7.  Finances

A sound financial base is established to support existing and future operations and provides the financial security essential for achieving and sustaining the school's mission.  The school meets present and future funding needs, including faculty compensation and benefits, deferred maintenance, bond and loan repayment, technology advancements, and national standard financial aid.  In addition, the school plans and establishes initiative to identify and secure additional sources of funding.

 8.  Institutional Advancement

The internal and external marketing program of Palm Beach Day Academy fosters an understanding of the value of an independent education, encourages a positive school image and promotes full enrollment.  The marketing program strengthens financial support for the school and enhances the attraction and retention of students, faculty, administration and staff, and promotes the allegiance of families.  Recognizing that the long-term security of the school requires adequate capital and annual funding other than tuition, the school establishes reliable methods of support, grows the school's endowment and identifies new sources of funding.

 9.  Facilities

The facilities of the two-campus school convey the congruence between the school's image and overall program.  The school maintains the facilities and equipment of both the Lower and Upper Campuses in superior condition in order to ensure that they are supportive of and adaptive to the mission of the school.  The school is committed to the preservation and enhancement of the asset value of the physical plant.

HISTORY OF PALM BEACH DAY ACADEMY    Return to Index

Upper Campus

Palm Beach Day Academy's history began in 1921 with the establishment of two schools, the Palm Beach School for Boys and the Palm Beach School for Girls. The boys' school was founded by Willard W. Ferguson from Burlington, Vermont, and Edward M. Shields of West Chester, Pennsylvania and was located at 437 Chilean Avenue. The girls' school was founded by Ada E. Davis of Minneapolis, Minnesota. She started the school in her home at 306 Cocoanut Row. The schools were originally limited to the elementary grades, but soon, each included a kindergarten and a high school.

Both schools had a short term, from December to March, which met the needs of winter residents. During the 1920's the term was lengthened to include November and all of March to accommodate longer staying residents. The students followed course outlines sent by their northern schools so that they were able to return to their homes in the spring and rejoin classmates there.

In 1930, a group of parents combined the two schools into one and called it Palm Beach Private School. In 1931, an Art Deco style building was constructed at 241 Seaview Avenue.

As more of Palm Beach Private School families became yearlong residents, the school extended its term from September to June, but continued to accommodate winter term students. As the student body grew, so did the facilities to include the Matthews Auditorium and Wean Library, and most recently the Halmos Activities Center.

The school changed its name to Palm Beach Day School in 1966, but continued its tradition of excellent preparation for secondary school and beyond.

Lower Campus

The Academy of the Palm Beaches, formerly the Children's House of the Palm Beaches, was founded by a group of dedicated parents in May of 1981. It was their desire to provide for their children the best possible foundation for life. The founders were Mr. and Mrs. H. Loy Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. Murray Goodman, Mr. and Mrs. Faxon Henderson, and Mr. and Mrs. John F. Koons, together with Barbara Durrer, Head of School.

The School opened on September 10, 1981, for children between the ages of two and six regardless of faith, race, or ethnic background. The school was originally located at 211 Trinity Place in West Palm Beach. The facilities were leased from Holy Trinity Church.

In 1994, following the acquisition of its own facilities, the Children's House expanded its mission to encompass not only a Pre-primary program (age 2) and a Primary program (ages 3-6), but also an Elementary program (grades 1-6). The change in the mission of the Children's House precipitated the name change, which took place in September 1995. Emphasizing its commitment to developing a quality elementary school, the Board of Trustees renamed the school The Academy of the Palm Beaches. It expanded further, to encompass the middle school years, through grade 8, in 2003-2004.

Palm Beach Day Academy

On Thursday, February 16, 2006, the Boards of Directors of Palm Beach Day School and The Academy of the Palm Beaches announced their decision to merge the two schools. The decision and the announcement followed more than a year of discussions that gave careful consideration to the many aspects involved in such a merger. In the end, both boards agreed that joining the two schools would result in a new institution that was greater than the sum of its parts.

The merger became official on July 1st of 2006 and the new two-campus school has been officially named the Palm Beach Day Academy - a name that includes elements from both former names. The Lower Campus, formerly The Academy of the Palm Beaches, is located on South Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach, 1.3 miles from the Upper Campus, formerly Palm Beach Day School in Palm Beach. The Lower Campus serves children from 2 years old through 3^rd grade, while the Upper Campus serves children from 4^th through 9th grade.  Return to Index

SCHOOL ORGANIZATION

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES    Return to Index

The Palm Beach Day Academy is a non-profit, tax-exempt educational corporation governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.  The Board defines the mission and fundamental values of the School through a Strategic Plan which looks well into the future, to the children of today's students. The Board establishes policy, sets budgets, and appoints a Head of School to implement the School's mission within policy guidelines. As a matter of practice, the Board does not involve itself in the day-to-day management of the affairs of the School, but rather leaves this responsibility to the Head, who may, on occasion, consult with the Board leadership on various matters.

Scott Johnson '79 - President
Lourdes Fanjul - Vice President
Glenn Straub - Treasurer
Stephanie Carden '79 - Secretary

Michael Ainslie
John Cohlan
Frances Fisher
Jill Glazer
Lou Hager
Kevin Lamb
Donna Lloyd-George
William Matthews '67
James McCann
Christopher Orthwein
Sue Patterson
Claudia Player
Joseph Sambuco
Matthew Smith

  Ex-Officio Members
Dr. Rebecca van der Bogert, Head of School
Robert Norberg, Parent School Council President

ADMINISTRATION    Return to Index

Dr. Rebecca van der Bogert
Head of School, Palm Beach Day Academy

 Donna Tobey
Head of Lower School
Director of Curriculum & Instruction

Meghan Albanese
Director of Admission and Financial Aid

Dorothea Cvelbar
Associate Director of Admission

William Coyle
Director of Finance & Operations

Richard Tummon
Director of Communications

Sara Robinson
Director of Development

Paula Martin
Associate Director of Development 

Kathleen Emmett
Great Expectations Campaign Director

SUPPORT STAFF

Cindy Pflaumer
Administrative Assistant

Debra KaleAdministrative Assistant

FACULTY   Return to Index

Pre-Primary (ages 2-3)
Room 1
Paulette Danni, Ilkay Ozgenc

PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES    Return to Index

ADMISSION

Palm Beach Day Academy enrolls children age two through grade 9. The Lower Campus serves children from 2 years old through 3^rd grade, while the Upper Campus serves children from 4^th through 9^th grade.  The admission process begins with a completed application and application fee. Applications are considered throughout the year, but it is to the candidate's advantage to apply as soon as possible. We encourage a parent tour and interview. For all applicants to Primary and above we require complete records from their present school, including official, updated transcripts and standardized testing results. A teacher recommendation form is also required.

Applicants to grade 1 through grade 9 participate in the regular classroom experience. Class visits are a chance for the applicant to see and get to know Palm Beach Day Academy and for us to become acquainted with the applicant. All students are screened in reading and mathematics and are required to complete a writing sample. Applicants to Primary are scheduled for an assessment during school hours.  Applicants to Kindergarten are scheduled for assessment on an announced Saturday in January.

Each application is considered without regard to gender, race, religion, or country of origin. Our fundamental objective with regard to admission is to find the right fit between the child, family and school. Families are notified of admission decisions after all the necessary information and procedures have been fulfilled. Palm Beach Day Academy does reserve the right to refuse admission to any applicant.

Contract   Return to Index

The enrollment contract is a legal document, which reserves a place at Palm Beach Day Academy for your child. Each family receives a copy of the contract, to be signed by both parents or guardians, and the Head of School. We base our staffing, equipment needs and space allocations on the number of students enrolled.  When the school guarantees a space for your child, it incurs economic obligations.  For this reason, the signed enrollment contract is a legally binding and enforceable document that obligates parents or guardians to a full academic year of tuition and fees, whether or not the child attends.  Cancellation of a contract must be made in writing by registered or certified mail on or before April 29, 2011.

Tuition and Fee Payments   Return to Index

A $1,250.00 non-refundable enrollment deposit must be received with the contract.  The balance of tuition and fees are to be paid in accordance with the Tuition and Fee Schedule provided with your 2010-11 Enrollment Contract. (Please note that the schedule is specific to your child's contract.)

All tuition and fees must be current and required forms completed prior to entering the classroom.

Accounts are billed only as a courtesy reminder.  Your tuition and fee schedule provides detailed information on the schedule of payments due.  If payment is not received within 30 days of the original due date, there will be a $200 late fee charged to your account.  If an account does not remain current, the student's enrollment at PBDA can be discontinued.

Tuition Refund Plan   Return to Index

The Tuition Refund Plan ("TRP") is designed to reduce your financial commitment in the event your child does not stay at Palm Beach Day Academy for the entire school year.

 All new families and those electing the 10-month plan are automatically enrolled in the TRP for a fee, currently 2% of tuition.  The TRP enrollment fee is not credited toward tuition.  All families have the opportunity to elect to enroll.  The TRP enrollment fee is non-refundable and is not included in the refund calculation under the TRP. 

 The TRP does not provide a full refund under any circumstances. If a refund is available under the TRP, it will first be applied toward any remaining balance due for tuition and fees for the rest of the academic year. If the refund is insufficient to cover the student's remaining balance of tuition and fees, you shall remain responsible for said balance.

 All remaining tuition and fees due and owing after the refund has been calculated must be paid within thirty (30) days of the date PBDA notifies you of the refund calculation.  If payment is not made within that thirty (30) day period, you will lose the benefit of the TRP and remain responsible for the full amount of tuition and fees.

 The circumstances under which you are eligible for a partial refund and the calculations used to determine that refund are presented in the TRP document, which is provided with your enrollment contract and available in the business office.

 Financial Assistance    Return to Index

Palm Beach Day Academy administers a need-based financial assistance program open to families of all students in Kindergarten through Grade 9. PBDA subscribes to the School and Student Service for Financial Aid (SSS). SSS is the largest national needs analysis system on the elementary and secondary school level. It provides PBDA with an objective and professional approach to financial aid distribution. Families interested in applying for financial aid must complete the Parents' Financial Statement (PFS) and submit it to SSS. The School grants aid based solely upon a family's level of need as demonstrated by SSS. All applications for financial assistance are held in the strictest confidence. Each family must resubmit an application for financial aid annually. Contact Meghan Albanese, Director of Admission and Financial Aid for further information.  Visit palmbeachdayacademy.org/admaffording for timeline and requirements

Orientation   Return to Index

All Lower Campus students and their parents are invited to visit on September 2nd any time between 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. to help with the transition between home and school on the first day.

All students entering after the start of the school year will have a personalized orientation period during the first days of class.  Each student will spend these days with a teacher who will guide and assist the child in becoming acquainted with the classroom, the materials and appropriate behavior.  This orientation is designed to help the child feel welcome and secure in the new environment.

ATTENDANCE    Return to Index

All students ages 5 and above by September 1^st are required to attend the full day.  Students are not normally dismissed for lack of attendance, but may be retained at present grade level until work missed by non-attendance is mastered.

When considering a child's matriculation from level to level, the evaluation of the teaching team, as well as the standardized test scores, will prevail over an attendance record.  However, a child will not receive excessive classroom instruction to remain current to the detriment of the rest of the class.  Attendance will become an issue on an individual basis when a child cannot complete the appropriate lessons or function socially with his/her peers in a satisfactory manner.  Parents should also be aware that a child's attendance record can influence an admission decision if a student needs to transfer to another school at some point in the future.

School Hours

Lower School (Grades K-3) 8:15 a.m.-3:00 p.m. ("A" dismissal) or 3:30 p.m. ("B" dismissal)

Primary Full-day 8:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m.

Primary Half-day 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Pre-Primary Full-day 8:40 a.m.-3:15 p.m.

Pre-Primary Half-day 8:40 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Drop Off Times Location

Lower School (Grades K-3) 7:45 - 8:15 a.m. Main Breezeway

Primary 8:00 - 8:30 a.m. William Pitt Building

Pre-Primary 8:20 - 8:40 a.m. Main Breezeway

Punctuality

1.              Tardy is defined as follows:

• Lower School - after 8:15 a.m.
• Primary - after 8:30 a.m.
• Pre-Primary - after 8:40 a.m.

2.              Punctuality is essential to your child's success in the classroom as this establishes a pattern of respect in the educational process.  The breezeway gate will be locked at 8:40 a.m. to secure the campus for the safety of all children.

3.              It is absolutely necessary that you drop off and pick up your child during the designated times.

4.              Tardiness and early dismissal disrupts the classroom and affects all members of the class.

5.              Should you arrive late, proceed directly to the school office to complete a late arrival form.

Drop-off     Return to Index

Drop-off will be at the breezeway on the south side of the school for students in Pre-Primary and Grades K-3. Primary students should be dropped off at the William Pitt Building.  The school encourages all parents to remain in the car and faculty will assist the student getting out of the car.  If a parent chooses to walk a student to class, parking is in designated visitor spaces. This will maintain our safe arrival procedures in compliance with FCIS standards.

"Open-Door" Policy

Teachers are in their classrooms thirty (30) minutes before class begins.  Students may arrive during that time. This is time for the teacher to prepare his/her classroom.  It is not a time for impromptu parent/teacher conferences. For a parent/teacher conference, parents should call ahead to schedule a time. Please contact your child's teacher either by calling the office at (561) 832-8815 or by e-mailing the teacher directly. Teacher e-mail addresses are in the directory.


Pick-up   Return to Index

Students in Pre-Primary and Grades K-3 will be dismissed from the breezeway.  Half-day dismissal begins at 11:30a.m. Students in Grades K-3 will be dismissed at 3:00p.m. ("A" dismissal) or 3:30p.m. ("B" dismissal) depending on parent preference.  Parents will make this selection in August.  During dismissal, parents are asked to remain in their cars.  Faculty members will escort students to their car.  Please place the CAR SIGN that has been provided to you in the front windshield.  This helps us load the car in an efficient manner.  Any remaining students will be checked into After Care.

Full day Primary students with siblings will be dismissed from the breezeway at 3:00p.m. or 3:30p.m.  All other Primary students will be dismissed from the William Pitt Building at 11:30a.m. (half day) or 3:15p.m. (full day).

If during the year you find it necessary to come to school at a time other than regular pick-up time, please call in advance.  Your child will be in the front office upon your arrival. We discourage early pick-up, as this can be disruptive to instruction taking place.

Pick-Up Authorization

The pick-up authorization information forms must be received on or before the first day of school. The form needs to be completed and signed; anyone other than parents must be authorized to pick-up a child.  Also, the front office must have written and dated notes for any changes in regularly scheduled pick-up. A fax that includes a signature may be sent to the office at 832-3343 giving this permission.   In an extreme emergency, a telephone call to the school office will be accepted.  This policy is for your child's safety and protection.

Lower Campus After Care   Return to Index

Palm Beach Day Academy offers After Care to all Lower Campus Full Day Pre-Primary - Grade 3 students, Monday thru from 3:30p.m. to 5:30p.m.   There is no After Care offered on half-day dismissals, as well as for half-day pre-primary/primary students not picked up by 11:30a.m. 

After Care can be prescheduled for students attending on a continuous basis or it can be used on an "as needed" basis.  We offer children in first grade through third grade an opportunity to have a Study Hall/Homework time in the library from 3:15p.m. until 4:25p.m.  After 4:25 p.m., they will join the remaining After Care group.

The After Care charge is $10.00 per hour or any portion thereof.  After Care is billed and payable on a monthly basis and must be current in order for your child to continue this service.  If a student has not be picked up by 3:45, the end of Dismissal B, your child will be transferred to After Care and be charged the rate of our After Care service.

LATE PICK-UP for After Care If an emergency develops and you are unable to pick up your child prior to 5:30p.m., please call to inform the school at 832-8815.  If there has been no advance warning of arriving after 5:30p.m., be aware that you will be charged a $50 late fee and then an additional $50.00 for every 10 minutes after 5:30p.m.  If a parent is late more than three times, the school has the right to refuse After Care service for that family.

If you have any questions or concerns about the After Care program, please contact Linda Merman, Enrichment and After Care Coordinator, at 832-8815.

HEALTH RECORDS/INFORMATION    Return to Index

Health Information

In order for your child to attend school in Palm Beach County, the following forms must be in the school office prior to the first day of school: Emergency Medical Authorization, Authorization for Pick-Up, and Nutritious Snack/Food Allergy Form.  Parents must inform the School of any allergies or allergy treatment the child has.  Health emergency procedures must be outlined, in writing, and presented to the child's teacher. After the teacher has reviewed the information, it will be forwarded to the front office and placed in your child's student file.  We ask that, in order to avoid allergic reactions, children with food allergies bring their own snack.

Health Forms

Florida State Law and The Florida Department of Health require that all students' administrative files be complete with the following forms prior to entering the classroom:

a) Florida Student Health Examination Medical Form DH 3040 (issued by a physician),

b) Florida Certificate of Immunization Form DH 680.

Our files are subject to inspection by the Palm Beach County Health Department after the first day of school; therefore, students must have the required forms in order to attend school.  NO SHOTS, NO SCHOOL, NO KIDDING!

First Aid    Return to Index

Members of our staff are trained in CPR and First Aid, and the staff member closest to the incident handles medical emergencies. All parents are required to sign an Emergency Information Form before entering school.  Only first-aid treatment of a minor nature will be administered by the staff.  Parents will be notified of minor accidents by way of an accident form.  If a more serious accident occurs, parents will be notified immediately.  If you cannot be reached, the emergency contact you provided the school with will be called.  If that person is not available, we will then contact your child's physician.  If the condition is of a life-threatening nature, 911 will be called, and then the parent will be called. The child will be transported to the nearest hospital, as necessary.  No school personnel will transport a sick or injured child.  A nurse is available when needed.

Illness

Parents are required to notify the school office by 8:00 a.m. if your child will be absent from school that day. Please do not send your child to school with symptoms such as sore throat, elevated temperature, cough, rash, upset stomach, diarrhea and/or vomiting or an active cold.  A child should be free of symptoms, including a fever, for a minimum of 24 hours in order to return to school. At the discretion of the teachers, any child with these symptoms will be sent home for the protection of your child and his or her classmates.  We do not have the facilities or staff to care for children who are ill.  

Medication

Only administrative staff are permitted to administer medication (prescription or over the counter).  All prescriptions must be in the original container in order to be administered by the school.  Parents will need to bring the medication to the office and fill out a medication permission form for medicines to be given during the school day.  The medication will be locked in the office and administered there.  Whenever possible, we encourage parents to administer drugs prior to and after school hours.

Lice Policy    Return to Index

From time to time we may find that one or more of our students have lice.  The first and most important thing to remember is that this can happen to anyone and has nothing to do with cleanliness.  We need to be sure that there is no stigma associated with having lice, and we must assure our children that they should not be embarrassed by it.  At the same time, we need the families of everyone in a classroom to be aware of the issue and to be actively and openly working on treatment.

 If a student is discovered to have lice, he or she will be sent home for treatment.  Our nurse will check all students in the class and a notice will be sent home alerting parents to monitor their children.  The school will take appropriate measures to treat the classroom to prevent the spread of lice.

 Students who have been sent home must be treated and checked by a school official before re-entering class.  It is especially important that you notify the school if you discover your child has lice.  Sharing this information allows everyone to work together proactively.

 Even after treatment, you should check your child daily.  Occasionally, nits will remain after treatment, which requires parents to be diligent about removing them.  The school will recheck 7-10 days after treatment.

 Outbreaks happen in all schools, and they can be challenging.  We know the situation is time consuming for parents and we will do everything we can here at school to alert you and support you and your children.

 If you have additional questions, please feel free to call our nurse, Carrie Pateman, at the Upper Campus (655-1188).

PARENT/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION   Return to Index

 We ask parents to bring any and all questions and concerns to the administration to be appropriately reviewed. If a parent has a problem or concern at the classroom level, the parent should first go to the classroom teacher. Please do not delay as time often enhances what may be a simple misunderstanding or mis-communication.  If the issue cannot be resolved to your satisfaction, the administration stands ready to work with you at any time.

We believe that a positive and constructive working relationship between the school, a student's parents or guardian, and the student is essential to the accomplishment of our educational mission.

 The school reserves the right to terminate or not renew a student's enrollment if we reasonably conclude that the actions of the student, parent, or guardian make such a positive and constructive relationship impossible or otherwise seriously interferes with the school's accomplishment of its purposes.

 Parent/School Communication by E-mail: Every teacher has a computer with Internet access and an e-mail address which can be found on the website at www.palmbeachdayacademy.org or in the directory.  Parents should feel free to e-mail a teacher with a request for a conference or other communication. Please allow two days for a response, as teachers sometimes do not have time during the school day to respond to an e-mail.  Also, please do NOT send an e-mail to the teacher to give your child permission to go home with a friend.  Send that e-mail to Debra Kale at the school office: dkale@pbday.org.


Classroom Observation

We encourage classroom observations by parents at appropriate times.  Please contact the teacher and/or the administration to arrange observations of your child in his or her classroom setting.  Parents who wish to observe are asked to allow for an adjustment period and visit the classroom after the first week of October.  Plan to arrive 10 minutes prior to your visit time in order to check in with the front office and obtain a visitor's pass.  Please do not simply "drop-in" on your child's class; it can be very disruptive to the children.

Class and School Meetings

Parents and teachers will be invited to meet together on a regular basis.  The fundamental goal is to keep parents abreast of happenings at school and build strong ties throughout our school community. These meetings will provide a forum for parents and teachers to share their questions and celebrate their child's achievements as the year progresses.  While the purpose of each meeting may vary, the emphasis will always center on your child's progress and two-way communication.

Attendance at special occasion meetings such as "Back to School Night" is strongly encouraged as important information will be presented.

Parent/Teacher Conferences and Progress Reports   Return to Index

Pre-Primary and Primary progress reports are issued in January and June.  Lower School (K-3) progress reports are issued in December, March and June.  Parent/Teacher Conferences are formally scheduled for all children twice a year.  This year's conferences will take place on Friday, November 4^th and Wednesday, May 23^rd.  Your child's teachers will discuss with you your child's academic progress, interests, and social growth.  If a special conference with a teacher is desired, please call for an appointment.  One will be scheduled as soon as possible.  If a conference is requested by the school, we ask the parents' cooperation in scheduling it in a timely manner. Parents are asked not to try to engage a teacher in any substantive communication about a student outside of a scheduled conference.

PARENT SCHOOL COUNCIL    Return to Index

The mission of the PSC is to foster communication between parents and the school and to advance the school's mission and strategic plan.  The PSC promotes Palm Beach Day Academy and its activities and strives to create a close constructive relationship between the school, its administration, faculty, staff, parents and students. 

The objectives of the PSC are to encourage communication among all components of the school community, to have members of the Council serve the school and its students in non-academic functions, and to enrich the school experience for students by providing an opportunity and forum for parental involvement.

The PSC consists of a five member Executive Committee and a leadership council which consists of two faculty representatives (one from each campus), four parent representatives (two from each campus), up to two Trustee representatives, the immediate past President and the Head of School. 

Families are encouraged to get involved with school activities and committees.  Strong family support maintains the high standards of our school, as well as providing exciting and rewarding experiences for children and parents alike.  There is something for every parent, and we ask you to find an area in which you have experience or in which you simply have an interest.

Return to Index

Parent School Council

2011-2012

President - Robert Norberg

Vice President Lower School - Jennifer Wilson

Vice President Upper School  - Susan Elhilow

Secretary - Katie Wandoff

Program Coordinator - Elizabeth Fifield

Pre-Primary & Primary Representative - Betsy Slocum

Lower School Representative - Dana Kretschmar

Upper School Representative - Valerie Winchester

Faculty Representative/Lower School - Karie Petrovics

Faculty Representative/Upper School - Elizabeth Sheehan

Board Liaison - Lourdes Fanjul

Board Liaison & Past President - Stephanie Carden

Head of School - Becky van der Bogert

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Schools are all about relationships.  The relationship between the home and school is extremely important to a child's success.  Parents are encouraged to get involved through Parent School Council (PSC) activities and other volunteer opportunities.  There are a variety of ways for parents to be involved.  Parent Coffees held in September highlight the many opportunities.

There will be a Coffee for parents of students in Grades K-3 on September 14, and one for Pre-Primary/Primary parents on September 21.

Providing Support to the Palm Beach Day Academy    Return to Index

Independent schools have two sources of revenue: tuition and voluntary gifts derived from fundraising. Independent schools do not receive federal or state funding. Palm Beach Day Academy is a non-profit 501(c) 3 corporation, which, like other non-profit independent schools, relies on financial contributions for capital improvements and to offset annual operating costs not covered by tuition. The actual cost per student is greater than the tuition charged.  Each year there is a gap of roughly $4500 per student that must be fulfilled through contributions to the school.

Voluntary financial support comes from generous donors including trustees, parents, alumni, faculty, grandparents and friends.  Gifts to the Annual Fund provide critical support for current operations, and gifts to the Great Expectations Campaign secure the school's future plans and vitality by supporting faculty, facilities, endowment and financial aid.

Annual Giving Fund

The Annual Fund supports every aspect of daily life at Palm Beach Day Academy. It supports the faculty; it helps the school maintain quality programs and small class sizes; it enhances the library collections; it ensures that Palm Beach Day remain on the leading edge of technological innovation; and it supports the foreign language, arts and athletic programs that enrich the lives of all students at Palm Beach Day Academy.

Each year, with the help of a dedicated group of parents, the school seeks support from all members of the school community, including trustees, current and past parents, alumni, teachers, faculty and friends.  Growing the Annual Fund is vitally important to the school, and we encourage each member of the school community to contribute.  Gifts of all sizes are meaningful and participation is considered a key value in the Palm Beach Day community.  An impressive 100% of the faculty and staff contribute to the Annual Fund each year. 

The goal for Palm Beach Day Academy's 2011-2012 Annual Fund is $800,000, which will provide approximately 6% of the school's operating budget.  The Annual Fund runs from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012.

Annual Dinner & Auction

This important social fundraising event is led by parent chairs in conjunction with the Development Office and supported by school families, professional organizations, community businesses, teachers, and friends. It offers countless opportunities for your involvement. We need your assistance in obtaining:

• Corporate Sponsorship
• Live and silent auction items
• Underwriting to offset the costs of the evening's expenses
• Advertisements for the evening's program
• Supporting your child's class project

Golf Tournament

This golf tournament is for accomplished players and duffers: for parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends. This is a great way to meet fellow parents and faculty in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. You can support this event by:

• Becoming an event sponsor
• Playing in the tournament or organizing a foursome
• Sponsoring faculty members
• Donating raffle prizes

 Great Expectations Campaign

Over the past year and a half, the Board of Trustees, a faculty Advisory Committee and parents have come together to create a plan to build on the foundation of superb teaching that is the hallmark of Palm Beach Day Academy.  The plan includes the creation of state-of-the-art educational programs and innovative buildings.  We will invest in our superb faculty.  We will build an endowment to help ensure PBDA's financial stability now and in the future.  The Great Expectations Campaign is an investment in the importance of preparing young minds to lead the world.  This year, parents, grandparents, alumni and community members will be asked to support the Great Expectations Campaign, which will ensure our ability to offer students the highest quality education for generations to come.

Endowment and Planned Giving     Return to Index

Gifts to the endowment are a wonderful way of providing long-term financial support. An endowment is money that is held in perpetuity and invested to earn a steady stream of income that provides support. Because endowment gifts generate earnings each year, they play a critical role in long-term financial stability. Because an endowment provides support in perpetuity, this is perhaps the most significant way to leave a permanent legacy at the school. An endowment gift also provides tax benefits to the donor (especially if established through a gift of securities.) Please contact the Development Office for guidelines for establishing a named endowment fund. The Development Office is pleased to offer a Planned Giving Program for individuals interested in long term giving.

Method of Payment

Your gift may be made by check or credit card, or it may be billed to your school account. Gifts may also be in securities. Contact the Development Office for additional information.

Corporate Matching Gifts     Return to Index

Many corporations offer matching gift programs to their employees and their families. Matching gift support often doubles or triples an individual's gift, and all matching support is credited to you.  You can request a matching gift on line or complete the matching gift form from your company's personnel office, and mail it to the Palm Beach Day Academy's Development Office with your gift. We will then certify the receipt of the gift.

WEATHER EMERGENCIES     Return to Index

In the event of extreme inclement weather, such as a hurricane, our policy is influenced somewhat by that of the Palm Beach County public schools, but we do make independent decisions since we have greater flexibility.  If there is an occurrence that is specific to us, we will send out an ALERT NOW message via the telephone and/or email.  Please keep us informed of any changes to your phone number or email address.

 If you have any questions regarding school emergency closings, openings or hours of operations:

 First: Call the school (561)-832-8815.  Every attempt will be made to keep the school's message updated daily.

 Second: Check the school's website at www.palmbeachdayacademy.org.  Emergency information is posted there as well.

 Third: Listen to local TV and radio stations for last minute emergency information.

GENERAL INFORMATION    Return to Index

 Field Trips

Students participate in field trips to explore our community, to expand appreciation of the arts, and to further expand understanding of a topic and/or subject area.  Typically, classes will attend the theater, concerts, and art and science exhibits as an extension of classroom studies.  Attire for field trips is dress uniform, unless otherwise noted.

Guidelines for Chaperones on Field Trips

The classroom teacher is in charge of the field trip. Chaperones must follow the teacher's instructions. No student may go on a field trip without parental permission.  The only children allowed on a field trip are those in the class or classes involved.  No chaperone or teacher may partake of any alcoholic beverages while chaperoning the students.  No chaperone or teacher may smoke on a field trip in the presence of students or when there is any possibility of a student inhaling the second-hand smoke.  The teacher will carry a cellular phone at all times on the trip in case an emergency arises. Chaperones must remember at all times that chaperoning a group of students is an ACTIVE process.  Chaperones must be fully in charge and know where every one of their students is at all times.

School Publications

A school newsletter called "The Bridge" is published eight times a year. You may be interviewed, photographed or asked to contribute to these newsletters as they are developed.

Weekly newsletters for each campus are emailed home to parents every Friday.   The newsletters highlight the coming week's events, things to know, etc.  An electronic version is posted on our school's website (www.palmbeachdayacademy.org).

Standardized Testing

Standardized tests are administered to students in Grades 1 to 3 each year in April.  Attendance during standardized testing is mandatory. Due to illness or an emergency, a makeup test will be scheduled at a time approved by the administration and the teacher administering the test if feasible.  This testing is done in recognition of the need to understand how our students are progressing and to give them test-taking experience.  Parents are encouraged to view scores as only one indication of academic progress.

Results are mailed home with the final progress report in June.  Parents may schedule an appointment to review the test results with Donna Tobey during the summer.  Parents are encouraged to view scores as only one indication of academic progress.

Confidentiality    Return to Index

All student records are strictly confidential.  Parents wishing to see their child's cumulative record must make an appointment with the school administration.  A signed Records Release Authorization must be signed by a parent in order for us to release any records.

Snacks   Return to Index

Pre-Primary and Primary students receive a nutritious snack in the morning.  Your child's teacher will provide you with a snack calendar in which parents send a snack to school on a rotating basis. All other students are welcome to bring their own healthy snacks at the discretion of the teachers.

Lunch

Students have lunch between 11:30AM and 1:00PM. The lunch period is designed to be a learning experience.  Children assist with set-up and clean-up.  Teachers encourage good eating habits and table manners.  Children may order pizza on Fridays, but otherwise need to bring a lunch.  Please send your child's lunch clearly marked with his or her name on it.  Food should be cut and wrapped so the child can be as independent as possible.  Provide napkin and silverware, when necessary.  Unused food will be returned home for your attention.  Please use your best judgment in preparing lunches.  Keep in mind your child's preferences, as well as his or her appetite.  Candy, gum and sodas are not permitted.

Parties

Please help us to make parties into delightful occasions which hurt no one's feelings.  In order to avoid hurt feelings and misunderstandings, we ask you to follow these guidelines when you plan a party:

• Schedule the party so that guests will not arrive directly from school.
• Deliver invitations by mail or by phone, never by hand at school unless every child in the class is invited.
• Ask children not to discuss parties or invitations at school.
• Invite a very small group, such as one quarter of the class, or the whole class. Another alternative is to invite all of the boys or all of the girls.
• Do not schedule parties for evenings before a school day.

Birthdays

We like to celebrate the birthdays of our children in a very simple way.  The parents of a birthday child are invited to provide a healthy and nutritious birthday snack for his or her classmates and teachers during the lunch break or during the last two hours of the day.   Summer birthdays are celebrated during the last few weeks of school.  Please let your child's teacher know in advance when you plan to bring birthday treats.  Be aware that the Palm Beach County Health Department does not allow homemade items to be served.

Holidays    Return to Index

Throughout the school year, various holidays are incorporated into the classroom curriculum to explore customs, history, and social studies.  Classes focus on what can be learned, rather than the purely celebrated aspects of holidays.  At certain times during the year, parents are invited and encouraged to participate.  We ask that parents refrain from sending in party bags for each student.

Personal Belongings and Toys

Check the contents of your child's pockets and backpacks, both before and after school, for small or unfamiliar objects which may be part of the classroom equipment.  All toys are to remain at home.  Please remind your child that toys are for home, and that at school he or she is here to perform "special work." All electronic devices (including cell phones) must be stored in a locker during school hours.  These devices cannot be used during school hours.  Any violation will result in the item being removed and stored in the business office.

Extra Change of Clothes

Pre-Primary and Primary students should keep an extra change of clothing at school for emergencies.  Please include underwear, socks, pants/shorts and shirt, skirt and blouse/dress. Please send these items in a small plastic bag with the child's name printed on the outside.  Make sure each item of clothing is clearly labeled.  Accidents can and do happen, and we find this method to be an effective way to handle the situation.

Smoking on Campus    Return to Index

This is a smoke-free campus.  The Florida Clean Indoor Air Act (FCIAA) is a Florida state law which regulates smoking in public places.  The amendment to the FCIAA, effective October 1, 1992, prohibits smoking in all Florida child-care facilities, schools, and educational facilities (see Section 3867.205(2)(a) of the Florida Statues). Violators may be assessed up to a $100.00 fine for first violation and up to $500.00 for any subsequent violation.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT   Return to Index

What are the Lifelong Guidelines and Lifeskills®?  They are a set of character traits or habits that one needs to develop in order to be a successful individual and contributing member to a community.  In all, there are 22 character traits that we emphasize on a daily basis:

Using the Lifelong Guidelines and Lifeskills® as a means to character development, our students clearly demonstrate:

• Respect for self
• Respect for others
• Respect for the environment
  

Given the emphasis on character development, we have found discipline is rarely a problem because our program is designed for children to be able to succeed and feel competent.  The daily routine is consistent so the children know what is expected of them at all times.  Another important factor is that there are only a few rules which are clearly, kindly, and consistently enforced.  The rules set limits of behavior to insure the safety and dignity of everyone and everything in the school.  Within the ground rules, the children are free to be themselves - having fun, exploring and discovering, either alone or with others.  In fact, they use the ground rules happily as a structure which protects them and makes it safe for them to enjoy the classroom activities.  The children actually embrace the ground rules and remind each other of them, which minimizes the resistance often present with arbitrary rules.

Clear, effective communication is modeled and taught.  Teachers acknowledge positive behavior and do not emphasize the negative.  Children are thanked for their cooperation, their display of manners, and their show of respect.  They are encouraged to express their feelings and ideas and to make requests in kind and considerate ways. Effective communication skills reduce the frustration caused by not being heard or understood.  Also, a high standard is set so children live up to the expectation of speaking, listening, and solving their own problems.  When a conflict or problem arises, teachers do not intervene unless it becomes obvious that the children need help in finding a solution.  Otherwise, the teacher offers coaching and encouragement to the children.  The Florida State Handbook for Childcare Providers refers to this philosophy as Positive Discipline.   The handbook states that "positive discipline is a process of teaching children how to behave appropriately.  Positive Discipline is different from punishment.  Punishment tells children what they should not do, where positive discipline tells children what they should do.  Punishment teaches fear; positive discipline teaches self-esteem."

The administration will support the teachers in their effort to develop character and maintain a positive learning environment for all students.  Students will not be permitted to interfere with the rights of others to learn in a safe environment.

1.  For students who demonstrate behavior which is beyond acceptable classroom limits, the discipline may include:

Time Out

Written Evaluation of the Incident

Problem-Solving Activities

Loss of Privileges

Required Parent Conference

Also, parents must pay for any personal or school property broken or lost due to improper use or through a child's actions.

2.   Students who demonstrate behavior beyond normal classroom control will be referred to the Head of School for administrative discipline.  Administrative discipline may include:

 In-School Suspension

Out of School Suspension

Expulsion

Return to Index
For an in-school suspension, a student will be isolated for a half-day or full day, monitored by an adult.  The student will have class work to do.  There will be a charge of $80 per day for in-school suspension. Out-of-school suspension and expulsion are serious interventions which are used in cases of severe or frequent negative behavior that are detrimental to the student and to the positive atmosphere of our school.  Any breach of the student/parent contract could be considered as grounds for suspension and/or expulsion.  Due to the nature of these situations, consequences for each student will be evaluated on an individual basis.  All suspensions and expulsions are at the Head of School's discretion.

 Harassment of any kind - physical, social, emotional, sexual - is a serious violation of our policy and will not be tolerated.  If a student is found to be harassing or bullying another member of the school community, it may lead to suspension, dismissal, or other serious disciplinary action.  Students should know that the school considers harassment or bullying behavior directed at another student to be unacceptable, even if it occurs outside of school. Any attempt to intimidate or otherwise bother a student after an allegation of sexual harassment has been made will also be viewed as a serious violation of school rules.

UNIFORM POLICY for 2011-2012   Return to Index

At Palm Beach Day Academy, we feel strongly that there is a direct association between how people look and how they feel about themselves.  Neat and attractive usually means proud and confident.  Our standard of dress prescribes a uniform during the school day. Students will arrive to school in full school uniform and leave neatly dressed, unless permission is given to the contrary.

While the school encourages and accepts the principle that all students are individuals, by our traditional nature we expect our students to demonstrate that individuality in their scholarship, character and performance, rather than through extreme dress or grooming.  At Palm Beach Day Academy, we have a uniform and maintain extremely high standards of personal behavior.  These high standards are a significant part of our institutional personality and we take great pride in that.  Accordingly, extreme dress or hair styles, such as long and/or messy, or too short or shaved, are inappropriate and unacceptable.  Jewelry must be conservative by traditionally accepted standards, such as no body rings, conservative earrings for girls, and no earrings for boys.  Loose or baggy clothing and elaborately styled shoes are similarly inconsistent with the spirit of our dress standards and are therefore unacceptable.

Fashion trends in clothing, hairstyles, make up and jewelry is occasionally taken to extremes by some students.  Our high standards will sometimes be perceived as conservative, especially in regard to those trends.  Students who are tempted toward what school authorities would perceive as extreme are advised to resist that temptation.  Although such judgments are subjective, the school will make those judgments conservatively, even if it means suspending a student's privilege to attend school until the extreme is eliminated.

For the most part, our students and their parents accept and practice these standards in student dress.  That is a part of voluntarily attending an independent school.  The school presumes that families knew our standards on application and that enrollment implies acceptance of those standards for students.  Whenever students choose to make a personal, political or fashion statement via extremes, school administrators will intercede and insist on standards which we feel are acceptable.  We expect students to comply and parents to support our efforts in this regard.

LOWER CAMPUS GENERAL GUIDELINES

1.     All clothing must be plainly marked with student's name.

2.     Clothing should fit appropriately and not be oversized.

3.     Dress uniform and formal dress requires solid color (black, tan, brown) closed dress leather shoes with flat heels.  Shoes are defined, according to height, as covering the foot below the ankle joint.  Tied moccasins with substantial support may be worn.  Boots are not permitted.  Predominantly white sneakers may be worn during all other times.

4.     Dress uniforms are to be worn on Friday, except when students are specifically instructed otherwise.

5.     Any t-shirt worn under a student's uniform must be solid white, without logos or writing.

6.     Only appropriate jewelry will be permitted.  Girls' earrings should be no longer than one inch.  Jewelry should not be noisy.

7.     No makeup is permitted.  Only pastel nail polish may be worn

8.     Items of clothing that are worn, torn or have paint on them are unacceptable.

9.     Boys' hair will be no longer than the base of their collared dress shirt with their ear lobes visible.  Bangs for boys and girls should not interfere with their vision.  No hair coloring is permitted.

10.  In cold weather (55 degrees or lower at 6:00 A.M. as reported by local radio or TV), students may wear jackets to school, but may not wear them in school unless noted by the administration.

11.  Girls' jumpers, belts, blouses, gym shorts, shorts, and t-shirts are only available for purchase at P.B. Boys Club. All other items can be purchased through Lands' End, including boys' polo and dress shirts, shorts, pants and all cold weather options for boys and girls. P. B. Boys Club will offer alternatives to many items like boys' polo shirts, oxford shirts, blazers, shorts and pants.

12.  P.B. Boys Club is located at 307 South County Road, Palm Beach. Lands' End uniforms can be found at www.landsend.com. A link to PBDA's custom shopping site with Lands' End can be found on our website, www.pbday.org.

 13.  Field day uniforms are only available for purchase at Palm Beach Boys Club.