Upper Campus Handbook

By its very nature - Palm Beach Day Academy enrolls children from Pre-primary through Ninth Grade - our school is different from others in the area. We are a community of students, parents, and teachers dedicated to providing and acquiring the very best education possible in each of these crucial years of a young person's life. Our common interests and understanding of this process will assure success.

Palm Beach Day Academy is committed to the development of every child, both as a person and as a student. Because the school is a community, it is imperative that order and respect be maintained to foster the well-being of the entire community. At Palm Beach Day Academy, we believe that each member of the school community bears a share of the responsibility for making the school a better place in which to learn and teach.

A clear understanding of the school's practices via this handbook has helped us avoid unpleasantness. Students should remember that Palm Beach Day Academy is an independent school and that enrollment is voluntary. All should understand, therefore, that their presence in school is an implied consent to support the school community, its goals and objectives, its standards of conduct and philosophy.

The purpose of this Upper Campus Handbook is to assist students and their families in understanding our school's goals and standards. Also, it specifies procedures so that the faculty and students may conduct the school's primary business, learning, with minimum distractions and maximum effect. Understandably, much of the above will vary, in practice, from grade to grade within our school. Nonetheless, the principles are constant and paramount in importance. Students should know the Handbook well because it contains useful information. More important, they should realize that the spirit and intent of this guide, rather than its specific wording, make all that is written here vital to the community.

Understanding, acceptance, and commitment to this spirit will help all our students to develop the sense of pride they should feel for our traditions, our strong faculty, and our high standards of education.

MISSION / VISION Back to Index

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 Back to Index

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 Back 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 foundation of 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." 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 are 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 are accorded appropriate respect, appreciation, and remuneration. The faculty also is afforded the opportunity of regular evaluations 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

HONOR CODE Back to Index

This Code of Honorable Behavior outlines the standards that all Palm Beach Day Academy students are expected to live by at all times - both in school and out of school. Students should read the code carefully and pledge themselves to its ideals. Students and their parents will be asked to sign a statement indicating that they have read and agreed to the guidelines in this handbook. Students should understand that, when they sign that statement, they are formally committing themselves to live by this code.

CODE OF HONORABLE BEHAVIOR

Because I respect my school, family, friends and self, I pledge that my behavior will bring respect and dignity to all of those with whom I share the Palm Beach Day Academy experience. In so doing,

I accept the fact that my behavior, both in and out of school, reflects my character and attitude toward my school. Therefore, I will act accordingly so that my behavior will reflect positively on my and my school's reputation.

I will be law-abiding. I will not engage in illegal actions such as drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco, or using drugs. I will respect other people's property and will not steal, vandalize, or be a participant in any kind of illegal activity.

I will be honest and honorable, avoiding all forms of cheating.

I pledge to avoid all forms of violence, including fighting or harassing others either verbally or in writing, to resolve differences of opinion.

I understand and accept the fact that my out-of-school behavior is a matter of school concern and that, because my behavior does reflect on the school's reputation, any inappropriate behavior may result in a variety of school consequences, including suspension or expulsion.

I accept the principles detailed in the Palm Beach Day Academy Handbook. Because it is essential to the school's mission that all members of our school community work to achieve an atmosphere where everyone is truly considerate of others, I will make that my personal credo both in and out of school.

I . BEHAVIORAL GUIDELINES

A. "CONSIDERATION FOR OTHERS"

In conjunction with the Code of Honorable Conduct, the simple phrase, "Consideration for Others," is the theme for all behavioral expectations at Palm Beach Day Academy. The school community fosters discipline through trust, reason, and self-control, rather than through a system of rules based on fear or the constant threat of punishment. Students are expected to conduct themselves with consideration for others at all times. "Others" includes teachers, fellow students, parents, athletic opponents, school property and visitors, to name a few.

B. PERSONAL INTEGRITY Back to Index

At Palm Beach Day Academy, the primary responsibility for good conduct is placed with the student. All members of the school community are expected to practice, demonstrate, and encourage the following:

1. Respect for the dignity of and acceptance of differences in others: students, faculty, staff, visitors, and associates outside the school.

2. A willingness to make decisions about personal and school matters and to accept the consequences of those decisions.

3. Respect for the property of the school and others. No one should take any property belonging to others without permission.

4. A willingness to serve and contribute to the general welfare of the school.

5. A positive attitude and a constructive approach to the solution of individual and group problems.

6. The school's policies and programs to encourage consideration of others and to discourage all forms of bullying.

Student Behavior which is deemed harmful to the student, to other students, or to the school's reputation is subject to administrative action which could include suspension or dismissal.

Harassment of any kind - physical, social, emotional, sexual - is a serious violation of "Consideration for Others" and will not be tolerated at Palm Beach Day Academy. 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.

A smile, a friendly greeting, and a gesture of kindness are traditions at Palm Beach Day Academy. Together with a willingness to lend a helping hand, these qualities help make our school a better place in which to work and play. It is important that our students represent the school appropriately, on and off campus and in the community. Again, students should be considerate of others as they should expect others to be considerate of them.

C. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

The Day Academy must and will stand on principle. We pledge a determined effort to teach our students to distinguish between right and wrong regarding the integrity of their work.

The school believes that our Code of Honorable Behavior is, in part, one of the reasons that our students have behaved socially with honor and respect. Inspired partly by that success, The Day Academy has an Academic Honor Code. The Code requires students to honorably submit homework, papers, quizzes and tests that are their own work and is within the school's guidelines for academic integrity.

Students should learn early in their academic lives that "borrowing" ideas from another student or lifting a choice passage from a source without appropriate citation is both harmful and dishonest. It is also a bad habit on which the student may come to rely. To do so is plagiarism - stealing someone's ideas and passing them off as one's own. Plagiarism and cheating are serious violations of academic integrity which may result in probation, suspension, dismissal, or other serious disciplinary action.

Students should neither give nor receive assistance on homework, quizzes, tests, or exams except as authorized by their instructors. This policy does not preclude students from working together to understand the procedures of their work, however. In fact, such cooperation is encouraged when it is helpful to the learning process.

The faculty will make a determined effort throughout the year to clarify the school's standards regarding academic integrity and the significance of the Academic Honor Code.

D. DISCIPLINARY ACTION Back to Index

Ideally, no student would ever have to be disciplined. In practice, the school does occasionally have to take disciplinary action for student breaches of conduct or lack of self-discipline. Traditionally, a verbal reprimand is most often rendered. For more serious offenses, or repeated misbehavior, the school resorts to time out, an after-school detention period, in house or home suspension or, in very serious situations, expulsion. Usually, following a suspension, students return to school on a probationary status.

For certain infractions, PBDA maintains an intermediate status of "warning" to students. While a rendered warning will be short of suspension, it is considered a serious disciplinary action. A repeat of the warned action or comparable behavior will likely result in suspension or expulsion.

E. STUDENT LEADERS Back to Index

Throughout the year, students, especially Student Leadership Council members, assume various leadership roles in the school community. It is important to the quality of life at school that they receive reasonable support from the student body. Although we recognize that the judgment of student leaders will be imperfect, nevertheless we expect others to fulfill their obligations as outlined by student leaders. Furthermore, as the "senior" members of our school community, Ninth Graders have an additional responsibility to lead as positive role models for the younger students.

F. WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU DISAGREE Back to Index

Occasionally, a student may resist direction from other students, teachers, or coaches. Certainly, the right to dissent is inherent in the community, but the manner in which one disagrees is important.

A public, unattractive display of temper is immature, undesirable, and probably an ineffective way to achieve resolution of the disagreement. A better way is to find a time to talk reasonably with the other person. After class or after the game, not during, are good examples of other times. If this is not possible, a student should talk with a teacher or a friend, who is usually willing to help

II. PROCEDURES

A. SCHOOLWIDE PROCEDURES

1. Attendance: Back to IndexThe school day begins at 8:00 A.M. and concludes at 3:00 P.M. on the Upper Campus. In this era of increasing demands and competition among students for secondary school placement, academic progress requires regular attendance. Parents and students are urged to plan weekends, vacations, and secondary school visits around the school calendar so that students do not miss school. Early departures or late returns from school breaks create awkward situations for students, especially for those who receive extra attention for academic needs and for those in the upper grades where tests and other course work are missed. Requesting teachers to provide make-up instruction is neither convenient nor fair. Adherence to the school calendar and schedule is the best way to minimize problems and ensure the greatest opportunity for academic success. Requests for special permission to miss any part of the school day should be made in writing and submitted to the office at least two days in advance whenever possible.

The importance of regular and prompt attendance cannot be overstated. Students who regularly arrive to school five to ten minutes late not only make their own beginning of the day difficult, but often distract other students in a class. In addition, we discourage parents from taking their children out of school when they are not sick for trips that do not coincide with PBDA's vacation schedule. Teachers are limited in their ability to help students compensate for these absences, and so it is the children, in the end, who lose out. In the event of an illness, parents must call the school nurse at 655-2251to report the absence. Upper School students are expected to talk directly with their teachers when they return to school to devise a plan for making up both homework and classwork in a timely fashion.

a) Absences from school due to personal illness, emergency dentist or doctor's appointments, serious illness in the family, visitations to schools, religious holidays, etc., are considered excused absences and entitle the student to make-up privileges in his subjects.

b) Absences to accommodate family plans or for personal reasons can entitle the student to make up work, prior to the absence, if the parents have notified the Head of School or Division Head in writing at least three days prior to the absence. Such notice is an appropriate consideration to the school and affords timely planning.

c) Permission to attend a play or performance by a sibling within the school day must be obtained in writing at least one day in advance, from the Division Head.

d) All other absences are considered unexcused absences and the student is not entitled to make-up privileges. This is especially the case for students who have not followed the protocol for planned absences.

e) To be eligible to participate in extracurricular events such as athletics, dramatics, school dances, Upper School students must be in attendance by the beginning of 3rd period (9:45 A.M.) the day of the scheduled event unless excused by the Head of School or Division Head.

f) Students on athletic teams are required to attend all games.

g) Graduation attendance is mandatory for all students in grades 6-9. Requests for excused absence must be submitted to the Head of School in writing at least one week in advance of the Commencement date.

2. Tardiness: Back to Index Arriving late to school is a distraction to everyone and cannot be tolerated. Repeated or chronic lateness will be considered a serious matter of discipline and may result in a lowering of one's Consideration Grade in grades 4-9. If students elect to attend a late evening performance with their parents' permission, they should be prepared to follow through with daily responsibilities.

3. Chronic Tardiness and Absenteeism: Tardiness and/or absenteeism of a chronic nature present a problem for some students. Missing classroom discussion, regardless of a student's grade performance, lessens the quality of that student's learning. In the Upper School, students missing 10% or more classes in any course in any marking period may forfeit an effort grade.

4. Student Lost and Found Back to Index Bins for student property are located under the stairwell nearest the East and West Fields. All items of clothing as well as textbooks and notebooks are required to be clearly labeled with the owner's name. Non-returnable items will regularly be given to charities. Students who are frequently irresponsible about their belongings may earn lunch duty, detention and/or loss of "consideration" grade.

Strayed, Borrowed, "Stolen" and otherwise misplaced or neglected items: The consistent use of school-issued combination locks by Upper Schoolers discourages unauthorized access to personal property by others.

5. Homework: Back to Index One of the chief aims of the school is to assist each student in developing his academic potential to the fullest. Success in the academic field is greatly enhanced by efficient study habits. Much time in the classroom is spent acquainting the student with study techniques. Homework plays a major role in our school process. Managing its details and successful preparation of homework assignments are crucial to the achievement of individual and school goals. It is a part of our determination that students become self-educators. In the management of homework assignments, projects and papers, we feel strongly that the student must learn self-management. Homework and its proper completion, quality, and timeliness are student responsibilities. When extenuating circumstances occur and the homework cannot be completed, students are charged with the responsibility of notifying their teachers in a timely and appropriate manner. Parents should do so for students in 4th Grade.

Knowledge of the skills needed for successful homework preparation must work hand-in-hand with independent thinking and concentration. For this reason, the school requests that there be a quiet place at home for study and that a sufficient amount of uninterrupted time be devoted to this aspect of academic training.

Homework and independent work skills are gradually increased throughout the Upper School. Homework amounts range from 45 minutes to an hour in Fourth Grade. In the Fifth through Ninth Grades, homework is assigned in each subject almost daily. The faculty has developed Suggested Guidelines for homework amounts in Grades 5-9. Grade Five, 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes per night; Grade Six, 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes per night; Grade Seven, 1 and 1/2 hours to 2 hours per night; Grade Eight, 1 and 1/2 hours to 2 hours per night; Grade Nine, 2 to 2 and 1/2 hours per night. Honors sections usually require more time for each assignment. In practice, homework workloads will vary from the ideal, according to subject, teacher, and time of year. Learning to manage these assignments efficiently is a necessary, life-long skill for every student. Even if a student has study time during the school day, a portion of the homework usually requires home study. Every student is issued and required to have an assignment book and to write down the assignment for all courses each day.

6. Homework for Absentees: Assignments for students in the 4th Grade should be picked up in the office after 2:00 P.M. Students in grades 5-9 should contact reliable fellow students in their classes or view faculty web pages for assignments. In the event of extended unforeseen absences in the upper grades, the advisor can assist parents in coordinating the acquisition and completion of homework.

No homework will be assigned to students over school vacations (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Spring Break). This does not apply to the summer vacation, since students regularly are expected to complete assigned reading and math during the summer months. Teachers may choose to establish the date of the return from vacation as the due date for a long term assignment; students need to pace themselves accordingly.

7. Extra help Back to Index is available for all students and is intended to support learning. Individual teachers are available for extra help at least two times a week and generally schedule their sessions either before or after school. Taking advantage of extra help opportunities is especially helpful when done proactively and may eliminate the need for a tutor.

8. Back to Index In the event of hurricane or other local emergencies that develop during non-school hours, we will close school if the Palm Beach County public schools announce closing over the radio, television or Internet. Parents will be notified by our automated telephone system- Alert Now.

9. The Raymond Wean Library/Learning Center Back to Index is a very special place in school. The library's primary purpose is to further the education of all students. To do so, we want the library's resources used extensively. At the very least, it is a place to house reference and background materials for research and books to read for pleasure. At its best, it is a storehouse for ideas, learning and discovery. It functions best when students, teachers, and librarian work together. Rules for the orderly management and use of the library are necessary to achieve its purpose.

a) Books may be checked out and are renewable for two-week periods. Books more than four weeks overdue will be presumed lost. A fee of $35.00 will be charged to student accounts. If the book is recovered, the account will be reimbursed. Overdue books can result in lower Consideration grades.

b) Reference books, encyclopedias, videos and DVD's remain in the library. The school community is invited to make use of these items on library premises.

c) Current magazines also remain in the library. Back issues are available from files and may be borrowed in the same manner as books.

d) On those occasions when Upper Campus study halls are scheduled in the library, student use of the library must, of necessity, be more tightly governed. Rules designed to create a productive atmosphere during study hall will be detailed for all students at the opening of school.

e) The three basic rules are 1) No food or drink, 2) No computer games (computers are to be used for writing assignments, appropriate research, and AR testing), 3) Quiet composure is required.

f) The After School Library Program invites students from grades 4 through 9 to make use of the library's resources after school hours. The program is offered free of charge every day of the week with the exception of school half days.

g) The library opens at 7:30 A.M. and closes at 4:30 P.M.

h) The Wean Library web site may be accessed on Palm Beach Day Academy's home page. The site offers resourceful websites, a bibliographic guide to citing resource materials, Electric Library, Encyclopedia Britannica, World Book and recommended, age appropriate reading lists. (AR lists are to be found on the PBDA home page, within the Academics menu)

i) Parents who wish to use the library's facilities for school-related programs and events are invited to call the library and make a reservation.

10. Computer Software: Back to Index The U. S. Copyright Law states that it is illegal to make or distribute copies of copyrighted software without authorization. Students and faculty at Palm Beach Day Academy are expected to respect this law. Inappropriate use of Palm Beach Day Academy computer property, either at school or at home, will result in disciplinary action. All students and parents are required to sign the Contract for Use of Computer Technology and to abide by the rules set forth. Violation of any part of the Contract, in school or out, may result in serious disciplinary action, which may include loss of computer privilege, detention, suspension, or dismissal. All students are expected to exercise good judgment when using the technology at Palm Beach Day Academy, even when not directly supervised by a teacher.

11. Lunch: Back to Index All students eat at school and should remain on campus throughout the lunch period. Unless otherwise assigned, students must report to the cafeteria for the lunch period. Lunches brought from home should be transported in an insulated box, such as the Igloo. The box should be clearly marked with the student's name, and all students should store lunch boxes on the assigned shelves. For sanitary reasons, lunch boxes must be taken home at the end of each day. Parents are welcome to have lunch with their child. Parents are discouraged from bringing lunch and dessert items for other students but may, in the event of a birthday, provide a birthday treat for all students at their child's grade leel. In doing so, parents should contact their child's advisor a week in advance so that faculty on lunch duty are aware and to determine if there are scheduling conflicts.

12. Messages and Classroom Disruptions: Back to Index Everyone would agree that we teach and learn best when there are no distractions to classroom procedures. Understandably, parents and students do have occasional, reasonable and impromptu needs to communicate during the school day. Unless there is a genuine emergency or a prior understanding with a teacher, parents should not interrupt classroom procedures or go directly to classroom areas. These messages and deliveries to students should be made first through the school office. The necessary timing of delivery or connection with a student can be determined by the office. Prior and timely written notices or requests for adjustments from school routine, signed by a parent or guardian, should be a matter of course and will preclude the inconvenience and possible confusion of telephone, voice mail or E-mail transmissions. Late afternoon notices, especially after 2 P.M., can get lost in dismissal complications, despite our good intentions or efficiency. Respect for and cooperation with this policy will contribute substantially to a more efficiently managed school.

13. Telephone: Back to Index Proper planning and anticipation of needs by our students will minimize the use of school telephones. Office phones will be accessible for genuine emergencies. Faculty will work to discourage frequent and casual calling. Because cell phones offer students and families safety and convenience, students may have cell phones. During the school day, however, cell phones may only be used inside the school building with faculty permission. Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in confiscation of a student's cell phone and a possible lowering of the Consideration grade. Student use of the Fax machines can only occur with faculty permission.

14. Dismissal Procedures: Back to Index All students, parents and drivers are expected to know and follow the afternoon dismissal procedure explained on pages 16 - 17. Specifically, students may not enter a car unless it is stopped at the curb. During the dismissal time, 2:50 - 3:30, students may not enter a car that is stopped in the middle of the road under any circumstances. The school will consider students who either enter a car that is not at the curb, or who enter a car that has "jumped" the dismissal line to be in violation of school rules.

B. STUDENT PROGRESS - Grade 4 Back to Index

1. Conferences and Reports: In 4th Grade, classroom teachers and the divisional head are the primary communicators of student progress. Grade 4 issues progress reports three times a year, with a required conference scheduled in November and an optional conference available in May.

2. Evaluations: The 4th Grade uses combinations of effort marks and letter grades. Parents and students should understand that academic progress and effort are evaluated separately. The symbols used are as follows:

ACADEMIC EFFORT

A 1 Consistently Superior or Excellent Effort

B 2 Very Good Effort

C 3 Average and Acceptable Effort

D 4 Poor or Marginal Effort

F 5 Unsatisfactory or Unacceptable Effort

C. STUDENT PROGRESS - Grades 5 through 9 Back to Index

1. Academic Evaluation of Student Progress: In order for our students to progress, it is vital that they understand their teachers' assessments of their work. In the Upper School, teachers evaluate progress directly with students through conversation, blue slips, assessment of written work, traditional grading, and effort marks. The grading of work is on a numerical scale with 60 as passing. There are three grading periods, at which time grades and effort marks are given in each subject, athletics, and activities. The grading trimesters close for all students on November 23, March 2, and June 6. Trimester Tests are given to Sixth through 9th Graders at the end of the First and Second Trimesters. Final exams are administered to Sixth through Ninth Graders in June. The school feels the exams are a valuable learning experience and an appropriate way to measure student command of extensive amounts of information learned over a prolonged period. Additionally, we think it is valuable to give our students experience in managing the exam process.

An HONOR ROLL for Grades 6-9 is recognized each marking period. High Honors are accorded students with an average of 90 or better with no grade below 80. Honors are accorded averages of 85 to 89.99 with no grade below 75.

An HONOR ROLL for 5th Grade students also is recognized each quarter. 5th Grade Honors are awarded to all students with averages of 85 or better with no grade below 75.

Eighth and Ninth graders may qualify for membership in the National Junior Honor Society. The NJHS is a service organization that recognizes outstanding middle school studnets who have demonstrated excellence in Scholarshiop, Leadership, Service, and Character. To become a member and maintain their NJHS standing, students must earn and maintain: an 85 average, E-Club, at least a "2" in Consideration for Others, and 10 hours of Community Service during each trimester. In recognition of this honor, a luncheon is scheduled for qualifying students during the second trimester at which time they will receive their certificates and pins.

Effort evaluations are rendered according to the following criteria:

EFFORT CRITERIA Back to Index

Evaluation of a student's effort is always subjective. The Criteria listed below do describe the general characteristics of effort. A 3 effort rating, by definition, is acceptable, and a 2 or 1 will be rendered only when a student truly meets the criteria listed. The criteria are adjusted slightly in athletics, according to the characteristics of the program.

Rating 1 = Consistently Superior or Excellent Effort

1.     Works to capacity with sustained superior effort;
2.     Always prompt with assignments, always thorough and neatly rendered;
3.     Capable of analyzing the sources of his or her own errors and is willing to correct them; follows directions exactly;
4.     Consistently executes extra or original work;
5.     Consistently participates in class discussions and activities;
6.     Consistently demonstrates leadership in cooperation and work with others.

Rating 2 = Very Good Effort

1.     Works close to capacity at all times;
2.     Almost always prompt with assignments and follows directions; work is thoroughly and neatly rendered;
3.     Consistently analyzes the sources of his or her own errors and corrects them;
4.     Frequently executes extra or original work;
5.     Frequently participates effectively in class discussions;
6.     Frequently demonstrates leadership in cooperation and work with others.

Rating 3 = Acceptable Effort

1.     Works at a rate commensurate with ability;
2.     Usually hands in assignments on time; thoroughly, neatly, and adequately done;
3.     Recognizes, with faculty assistance, the factors contributing to errors;
4.     Regularly plans and executes satisfactory original or imaginative work;
5.     Regularly participates in class discussions and activities;
6.     Regularly cooperates with others in class.

Rating 4 = Poor Effort - Needs Improvement

1.     Works slightly below level of ability;
2.     Doesn't always hand in assignments on time; irregular thoroughness and neatness;
3.     Comes to class unprepared;
4.     Seldom plans and executes original and imaginative work; displays irregular verbalization of ideas, thoughts, or opinions;
5.     Seldom participates in classroom discussion and activities;
6.     Seldom initiates cooperation or goes beyond the minimum.

Rating 5 = Unsatisfactory and Unacceptable Effort

1.     Works considerably below level of ability;
2.     Comes to class with assignments not prepared, is neither neat nor thorough;
3.     Repeatedly makes the same error in work even when directly supervised by teachers;
4.     Never plans or submits original and imaginative work; displays frequent and avoidable errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling;
5.     Participates in class discussions only when called upon;
6.     Rarely initiates cooperation and may even be uncooperative.

2. Consideration for Others: Back to Index Each student in grades 4-9 will receive a grade in Consideration for Others at the end of each trimester. All students begin each term with a 2, and will receive this grade unless their behavior is noteworthy within the marking period. Students will be awarded a 1 for exceptionally positive consideration if they have received unanimous faculty approval. Violations of the school rules may result in the loss of a Consideration grade. Major violations may result in a drop of one, two or three grades in Consideration. Major violations or accumulated minor violations may result in probation, suspension, dismissal, or other disciplinary action. Any student who receives a 5 in Consideration is ineligible to be captain of any school team. The Consideration for Others system is administered by the Upper School Head. Consideration grades are the equivalent of:

1 - Excellent 2 - Good 3 - Fair 4 - Poor 5 - Unacceptable

3. Effort Club: Back to Index E-Club is a tradition at Palm Beach Day Academy. The tradition began as the school sought to recognize those students in grades 5 through 9 who demonstrated consistent effort. E-Club status is awarded quarterly, based on report cards, to students who earn 1's and 2's in effort with no more than one 3 in any area, subject or activity while also maintaining a 2 or better in Consideration. Any E-Club privileges will be determined periodically by the faculty.

4. Detention: Back to Index On occasion, students will be required to stay after school because of poor behavior. Detention should be viewed as a consequence to students who are not following school rules. Students should expect to receive detention for continuous minor infractions or tardiness to school or classes, or for any infraction significant enough to lower their Consideration for Others grade. Detentions may also be given for other circumstances where it is deemed necessary, such as repeated dress code violations. Usually detentions will be served on Friday afternoons and will last one hour. On appropriate occasions, community service to the school may be assigned to those serving detention. Repeated detentions may result in more severe disciplinary actions. The Upper School Head is responsible for the administration of detentions.

5. Athletics: Back to Index The school feels that physical education classes, organized athletics, and interscholastic competition play an important part in the total development of children. The playing field is a significant counterpart to the classroom at Palm Beach Day. Therefore, all students, unless excused for physical reasons, participate in our program. The school will honor a written parental request to excuse for up to three days. Any longer or prolonged excuse from the program should only be by a written doctor's request. Those so excused will be assigned to observe or to assist the coaches as is appropriate.

Interscholastic athletics is an essential part of our physical education program. Full participation allows maximum benefit. Missed games for appointments of family preferences diminish the benefit and complicate teacher/coach planning. Families are asked to consider athletic schedules in their planning. Absences may affect effort grades.

Sportsmanship, team spirit, and hard, clean play are conditions precedent to membership on athletic teams representing PBDA. We expect and will accept nothing less than exemplary citizenship and sportsmanship from our athletes. A marked lack thereof could result in the loss of the privilege of representing the school on a team.

III. BASIC RULES and SCHOOL ETIQUETT Back to Index

Good conduct is both honorable and expected of all students. In fact, good conduct and proper manners are time-honored traditions at Palm Beach Day Academy. In making a long list of unacceptable behaviors, a school runs the risk of implying that there is more one can't do than one can do during the day. At the Day Academy, we want and expect our students to use their sound judgment to determine proper behavior in myriad situations. Most of the time, they will respond to our trust and will act with propriety. When students do not, the faculty will seize the opportunities as great teaching moments.

A. BASIC RULES

Some basic rules will help clarify situations and behavior ahead of time.

1. Transportation: Back to Index Safety must be paramount in everyone's mind.

a) Buses: Bus riders are subject to all school rules and the driver's word is law. Students simply will not be allowed to misbehave. Loss of riding privileges or other disciplinary measures will result. Food, candy, or drinks are allowed on the buses only when circumstances and the drivers permit it.

b) Bikes and Mopeds: They are allowed only with parent permission and only if operated responsibly to or/and from campus. They are to be ridden only for transportation to and from school and loss of permission will result if they are used otherwise.

c) Skateboards, Scooters and Rollerblades may not be used in the building or during the school day.

d) Automobiles: Due to parking shortage, students may not drive to school.

2. Off Limits: Students should know the school is primarily for their education and most of its space is open to their proper occupancy. Some campus areas are obviously off limits without consent from faculty. They are: teachers' and staff desks, some audiovisual equipment, the offices, the kitchen, maintenance areas, and the Faculty House.

3. Off Campus: Back to Index All students must stay on campus, leaving only with permission of either the Head, Dr. van der Bogert or Upper Campus Head, Mr. Gramentine, and by proper arrangement requested by parents.

4. Gum and Candy: These are a general nuisance and can be unhealthy. They are not to be brought by students. Food purchased in the lunchroom should not be taken from it.

5. Cameras, iPODS, Cell Phones, etc.: The use of cellular phones is permitted on campus during school hours only with faculty permission. These phones should be stored in a secure location, such as the student's locker or bookbag, throughout the day. Failure to observe cell phone guidelines may result in discipinary action, which may include a one-day confiscation of the cell phone.

6. Lockers: Back to Index Students should utilize them for proper storage of school and athletic equipment, rather than leaving items in the hallways. Most lockers are equipped with locks, or students may provide their own. Therefore, students are responsible for the maintenance and security of all materials and equipment.

7. Drugs, Cigarettes, and Alcohol: With the obvious exception of prescription medicine, possession or use of any of these substances is prohibited under any circumstances. If students do so on campus or in any activity connected with the school in any way, they face suspension and/or expulsion. Prescription medicines must be taken to the school nurse to be properly dispensed.

8. After School Activities, Practices, and Extra Help: Students are required to be present on campus for the entire session, unless excused by the teacher in charge. Students should not be on campus unsupervised after dismissal.

9. School Closing: Back to Index Generally the buildings are locked at 5:00 P.M. and students are not permitted to enter after 5:00 P.M. unless accompanied by a coach or teacher. Teams returning to school after 5:00 P.M. should leave their belongings in lockers as classrooms will be locked.

B. SCHOOL ETIQUETTE Back to Index

Over the years at the Palm Beach Day Academy, our community has always been a place where everyone cared about conducting himself or herself in a proper and mannerly way. This tradition has come about because we have always valued the ethic of doing unto others as we would have them do unto us. Students should remember that the process of growing to be substantial women and men still allows them to be ladies and gentlemen. We take pride in the fact that the entire school community works toward mutual respect by following these guidelines:

1. True courtesy is based upon consideration of the rights and feelings of others. Be courteous to adults and classmates.

2. Faculty should be addressed by their surnames. Students should be addressed by their preferred names or nicknames.

3. Students should stand aside or hold doors open for faculty and other adults.

4. Loud or lewd talk, rumors, running in hallways or general rowdiness are examples of undesirable behavior and should always be avoided. The school takes great pride in its orderly, purposeful look and decorum. We like the sense of purpose conveyed by our orderliness.

5. Guests should feel comfortable and welcome at our school. Students should introduce themselves and offer assistance.

6. Special consideration and care must be given to smaller students and guests in crowded hallways.

7. At other schools and in public places, we expect students to represent their school with pride and decorum. Students should show others the kindness and consideration they hope others would show them.

V. PARENT INFORMATION Back to Index

A. SCHOOL ORGANIZATION

1. Board of Trustees

The Trustees are responsible for establishing overall goals and objectives, determining policy, and maintaining fiscal stability for the school. They also select the school head to whom they delegate the management of the school and the implementation of their policies.

The Trustees for 2011-12 Back to Index

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

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

Ex-Officio

Dr. Becky van der Bogert - Head of School
Robert Norberg - President PSC

2. Administration of School Back to Index

a) The Head is in overall charge of the school and is responsible to the Board of Trustees. Specifically, she is concerned with general policy, curriculum implementation, faculty development, school personnel, school counseling, discipline, admissions, finances, alumni, and public relations.

b) Mr. Jim Gramentine is Head of the Upper Campus. Mrs. Sara Robinson is the Director of Development and Paula Martin is the Associate Director of Development. Ms. Kathleen Emmett serves as Great Expectations Campaign Director. Mrs. Meghan Albanese directs admissions for both campuses and Dorothea Cvelbar serves as Associate Director of Admission. Mr. William Coyle is the Director of Finance and Operations. Mr. Richard Tummon is Director of Communications.

c) The Academic Department heads are concerned with the academic tone and organization of their departments.

3. Student Leadership Council Back to Index

Participating as a member of the Student Leadership Council is one of the highest privileges afforded students at Palm Beach Day Academy.

a) The Council is elected by the student body and is responsible for planning and implementing various student activities throughout the year. Its representatives are elected by students in grades four through nine in September. Two or more representatives each are elected from the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Grades, respectively. The Officers of The Council and the Ninth Grade representatives are expected to set the positive tone for the school, and to be the leaders at PBDA.

b) The time and responsibilities of serving on The Council are considerable. Eligibility requirements for either position are as follows.

1) For the previous school year, candidates must maintain records which show:

- E-club status

- no effort grade of 4 in any area

- an academic average of 70 or above (or C for Fourth Graders)

- no academic grade below 60. (or "D")

2) All candidates for or members of Student Leadership Council are subject to review by a faculty committee. Any student who falls below the standards listed above may petition the faculty for permission to stand for election, or to continue to serve the remainder of one's term.

4. The Parent/School Council Back to Index held its first meeting in December, 1992, and has been very active ever since. Its purpose, according to its bylaws, is to:

- foster communication among all components of the school community

- provide a forum for the exchange of opinions on matters of mutual interest

- serve the school and its students in nonacademic functions.

a) The P/S Council Executive Committee meets monthly during the school year. Their school-wide programs feature thematic presentations and/or open discussions on topics of general concern. Copies of the Bylaws may be obtained at monthly meetings or by request.

b) The P/S Council sponsors, or co-sponsors with the school, a number of programs and events, which may change from year to year.

1) Recent programs include the Book Fair, the Birthday Book Club, the All-School Picnic, and the Faculty Appreciation Week.

2) Room Parents are organized under the P/S Council.

3) The Auction, a major fund-raiser, is another important parent-run activity.

c) All parents of children attending the school are members of the Parent/School Council. Officers are elected by those members present at the annual spring meeting.

For 2011-12 the officers of the P/S Council are: Back to Index

President:     Robert Norberg
Vice Presidents:     Jennifer Wilson (LC), Susan Elhilow (UC)
Secretary:      Katie Wandoff
Program Coordinator:     Elizabeth Fifield
Parent Rep., Primary     Betsy Slocum
Parent Rep., Upper School:     Valerie Winchester
Parent Reps., Lower School:     Sdana Kretschmar
Past Presidents:      Stephanie Carden
Faculty Liaison:     Kari Petrovics (LC) Elizabeth Sheehan (UC)
Board of Trustees Liaison:     Lourdes Fanjul & Stephanie Carden
Head of School:     Dr. Rebecca van der Bogert

B. HEALTH INFORMATION

1. Health forms: Back to Index To comply with Health Department requirements, each student must submit current, updated health forms such as physicals and immunization records to the school nurse on or before registration day. These forms also enable the nurse and physical education teachers to ensure the health and safety of each student.

2. Notification of illness: Parents are requested to notify the school by 8 A.M. if a student is absent because of illness.

3. Return to school after an illness: All students must visit the nurse before returning to class, regardless of the length of absence. If physically fit, they will be given class admission slips. Children who have had a fever must remain home for 24 hours without a fever before returning to school. Students diagnosed with strep throat may return to school only after they have been receiving antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

4. Early dismissal: Back to Index Dismissal at noon or coming to school only for a particular test or activity is not encouraged. However, those students who return after a prolonged illness and special cases may be excused upon request of the physician or at the nurse's discretion.

5. Skin protection: Sunscreen is available and should be applied before going outside for sports.

6. Lice: Back 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 at the Upper Campus (655-2251).

C. STUDENT BULLETINS AND CALENDARS

Annual calendars are published for the entire school and are located under the "PBDA Calendar" link which is in the "School Life" menu. A Calendar Update is emailed to school families weekly and is also available on the school's website, www.palmbeachdayacademy. org. Click on the "bulletin" button. The username is "bulldog" and the password is "pbda."

D. PARENT CONCERNS Back to Index

1. If you have a concern, it is important that someone at school knows it. The best way to initiate conversation is directly with the teacher of primary involvement. Generally, the most direct approach is with classroom teachers in 4th Grade. In 5-9, either the subject teacher or your child's advisor is the best first contact.

2. The respective administrators, Mr. Gramentine (4-9 )and Dr. van der Bogert stand ready to work with you at any time, but we do feel the most efficient course is to communicate first with the teacher most directly involved. Understandably, they know best what the facts are.

E. AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY PICKUP

1. We try to estimate and publicize probable pickup times for after school activities. Most times, we are within ten minutes of the estimate.

2. Whether picking up your child after school dismissal or after a game or evening activity, it is essential that parents be prompt. Remember if you are late, it is an inconvenience for faculty and staff with other obligations. Please be prompt and considerate.

F. PARENTAL PRESENCE IN THE CLASSROOM Back to Index

One of the great traditions of our school is that we welcome parental presence and involvement. Our doors and classrooms are open. Balancing the desire to be present in the classroom with the need to be there while still honoring the teacher's need to get on with lessons without parental presence, can be problematic.

PBDA parents enjoy walking their children to classrooms in the morning. We encourage this and welcome the tradition. We do ask that parents leave the classroom as soon as possible so that the day's activities can commence, even in the time before school officially begins. All school assemblies are open to all parents and guests. When parents do attend, students should still sit with their respective classes.

G. IMPROMPTU CONFERENCES Back to Index

Impromptu conferences are another tradition at PBDA. In the classroom doorway, the hallways, playing fields, dismissal lines, even at Publix, quick exchanges can communicate useful information. There are times, however, when neither the time nor place is right. Especially in 4th Grade, just prior to and as school begins, we would appreciate it if parents would leave children quickly and allow the daily routine to commence. The administration has directed faculty to request parents to make appointments rather than initiate conferences at inopportune times and places.

H. INVITATIONS AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES

1. Traditionally, invitations to out-of-school activities have been difficult to manage without awkwardness by all parties. In order to minimize the impact on classroom routine, we do require that all invitations be mailed or emailed to each child's home. Party invitations may not be distributed at school, even if the whole class is invited.

2. We ask that parents use discretion when hosting after-school parties, for the sake of those children excluded. Ideally, there would never be a social function to which an individual or a select few were not invited. The ideal is to invite all, or only a few, but never all but a few! To avoid hurt feelings, school policy holds that parents not shepherd a party group directly from school.

I. UNIFORM ATTENTION - UPPER SCHOOL PARENTS Back to Index

The school foresees the inevitability that students will occasionally test the limits of the uniform code. Parents can help. Please take notice of your child's appearance before he or she leaves the house in the morning and advise accordingly.

J. PARENT VOLUNTEER PARTICIPATION

In countless ways, our school functions better because parents, past and present, and friends of the school volunteer their time, expertise, and energy. We simply could not function without these resources. Please respond and help. Please ask to help if you are not directly recruited.

K. TRAFFIC CONTROL

Given our continuing effort at safe, secure and efficient traffic management, we ask all school families to know and comply with our written procedures regarding A.M. Drop-off and P.M. Pickup.

1. Morning Drop-Off: Back to Index In an effort to make the morning drop-off procedure as safe and efficient as can be, we request parents to pay special attention to the following procedure:

Parents should drop students off between the west end of the Matthews Auditorium (marked by the double orange cones) and the flagpole at the Main Entrance. Students must EXIT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE ONLY. Pull up to the vehicle in front of you to allow the cars behind you to advance. Do not stop at the crosswalk if there is space to pull ahead. Parents should not move their vehicles until the students and belongings have safely reached the sidewalk. Have your child/children prepared to exit the vehicle upon arriving at the designated area. Please give your children any instructions during the drive to school rather than upon arrival.

Drivers will not be allowed to exit their vehicles for any reason.

The safety of the students is the number one concern of the school. Students and parents will be expected to follow rules and cross only at the crosswalks.

Parents who need to exit their vehicles, when necessary, to walk their children into the school must utilize the 2 hour parking at the tennis courts, the metered parking at the recreation center, or any legal parking in the vicinity of the school. Parents should be mindful of the 2 hour limit.

2. Afternoon Dismissal: Back to Index

BUS RIDERS will assemble in the Bulldog Cafeteria, and await their bus drivers, who will walk the students across Seaview Avenue to the buses at approximately 3:10 P.M. PLEASE DO NOT PARK IN FRONT OF THE BUS DRIVEWAY OR BLOCK THE CROSSWALKS.

CAR RIDERS: The dismissal line runs the entire length of the school, from the west end of the Matthews Auditorium to County Road. Please do not stop on crosswalks as they will be used during dismissal.

Parents with students in grades 4-5 will be allowed to enter the dismissal line no earlier than 2:50 P.M. Parents with students in grades 6 through 9 are encouraged to enter the line after 3:10 P.M.

Each family is issued two signs indicating family name, to be displayed as cars enter Seaview Avenue. If this is attached to the visor, simply flipping it down as you approach the corner of Seaview will do the job. These signs must be used daily, as faculty assigned to dismissal duty vary by day, and may not recognize you or your car. Please keep the sign in view until your children are in the car. In the interest of safety, please avoid using cell phones during drop-off and dismissal.

Car-riding students will assemble in the Matthews Auditorium. A traffic monitor will announce the arrival of each vehicle, via microphone, to supervising faculty in the Auditorium. If all students of any car are not ready, the car will be directed to go around the block.

Cars will pick up riders from the designated loading zone in front of the Matthews Auditorium between the two crosswalks on the NORTH side of Seaview Avenue. Be alert for directions from the Safety Officer and faculty members. Always move as far forward as possible, allowing yourself room to pull out, even if you have to proceed beyond your child. He or she will be walked to you. Drivers will not be allowed to exit their vehicles.

There is no parking allowed along the North side of Seaview Avenue, from the entrance to the West field to the corner of County Road. Vehicles are no longer allowed to park on the curbs for any period of time. Unattended vehicles parked in this area are subject to a parking citation and towing by the Town of Palm Beach Police Department.

Cars which "jump the line" to pick up students, or any vehicle obstructing the traffic lane, may be issued a citation. Students who violate the dismissal procedures are subject to disciplinary action.

Parents who park legally on adjacent streets and walk to campus may pick up their children at the rear doors of the auditorium that exit into the atrium, so as not to interfere with car loading. For safety reasons please do not congregate in this area. Parents and students must use the crosswalks to cross Seaview Avenue.

Parents are asked to call the office before 1:30 P.M. with changes from routine pick-ups.

Parents who need to set appointments or see teachers should alter their pick-up routine by parking legally in the school neighborhood.

Please do not abandon your car in the traffic line.

After school (after 3:30 P.M.) parking for games and other functions will be allowed only in spaces as marked on the streets.

Finally, and extremely important, no vehicle may back up under any circumstance, especially during dismissal. There are too many little people on the curb, and drivers' rear vision is insufficient. Please leave enough room between your car and the car in front of you so you can pull out or wait for the car in front of you to clear a path.

L. PICK-UP AFTER AWAY GAMES

Parents are encouraged to attend away games, but are asked to speak directly to the coach before leaving with any children.

M. SAFE HOME GUIDELINES Back to Index

Palm Beach Day Academy encourages parents to work together to positively influence our children, particularly regarding the abuse of drugs and alcohol. The list of Safe Home Guidelines is a helpful tool, especially when all of the homes to which any of our children may go are familiar with the guidelines and follow them.

Safe Home Guidelines

As a concerned parent, I will:

Clearly communicate my opposition to drug and alcohol abuse;

Open lines of communication with my children to discuss drug and alcohol use, misuse and abuse;

Support positive recreational opportunities and encourage participation;

Be receptive to information provided me by the school regarding my child's well-being in and out of school, especially where drug or alcohol use may be involved;

Not serve or allow to be served drugs and alcohol to other people's children;

Be present and make my presence evident at youth social gatherings in my home;

Be sure my child keeps me informed as to where he is going and with whom;

Feel free to call host parents when my child is invited to their homes;

Recognize and support the right of all parents to be informed of any behavior which might require parental attention, especially concerning drugs or alcohol.