Family Resources

At Highland, we believe that high quality assessments provide valuable information to parents and teachers about the growth and achievement of their children. It is important to remember that each child's learning rate is unique and test scores are only one measure of a student’s academic progress. If you have questions regarding your child’s test results, or our assessment process, feel free to ask your child’s teacher, or Tyra Raasch (Assistant Administrator) by calling 952-423-7595.

Use these resources to help your family get the most out of the assessment process.

Types of assessments

There are two main types of assessments; formative and summative:

• Formative assessment happens during the learning process and is often referred to as the assessment for learning. Formative assessment is used to diagnose student needs and plan instruction to meet every student’s individual needs. Feedback is provided to students while working on a test or project to improve learning.
• Summative assessment happens at the end of the learning process and is often referred to as the assessment of learning. It is used to measure the achievement on a completed task, project or course. Summative assessments are generally used for reporting.

Elementary report cards

A report card is one component of a communication system between home and school. It’s purpose is to communicate a student’s achievement, behavior, and effort based on district grade level expectations and standards at designated times throughout the year. Please confer with your child’s teacher if you have questions or comments.

• Examples of elementary report cards for kindergarten through grade 5

MARKING CODE DESCRIPTORS

• Content areas [Español]
• Language Arts [Español]
• Mathematics [Español]
• Specialist Areas [Español]
• Specialist Areas for students enrolled in Digital Academy [Español] [Somali]
• Work Habits and Social Skills [Español]
• Work Habits & Social Skills Digital Learning [Español] [Somali]

Why do we have multiple assessments?

Each of the components in the district's balanced assessment program contributes to a more complete understanding of each student and together these assessments help to monitor student progress and guide instruction in every classroom. A variety of assessments are important to answer different questions about each individual student. Data collected from assessments, when used properly, lead to improved achievement.

ASSESSMENTS ARE ONE TOOL USED TO:

• Identify student achievement levels and skill performance; and students who may benefit from intervention and enrichment programs.
• Measure student learning.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of our educational system; student knowledge and skills relative to Minnesota Academic Standards; and educational innovations and curriculum.
• Improve Instruction to guide efforts to adapt instruction to the needs and abilities of students by assisting in setting educational priorities for groups or individual students.
• Report to students, parents, teachers, district staff, school board, and community members; and to provide information on student achievement.

Download the Highland Handbook

School District 196 Mission Statement

Educating our students to reach their full potential

 

Highland’s Mission Statement

A community working together to create a safe, welcoming, respectful environment for developing curious lifelong learners.

 

Highland’s Vision

We envision a school in which staff:

•  Demonstrate accountability for each student through ongoing assessment;

•  Regularly collaborate within and between teams;

•  Address the needs of the whole child, including academic, social and emotional development;

•  Research and implement "best practices";

•  All work together toward common goals; and

•  Welcome and utilize parent/community involvement.

 

Highland's Collective Commitments

In order to attain the vision we have for our school, the following collective commitments were established by Highland Elementary staff:

• Develop and implement common assessments that are aligned with district frameworks;

• Utilize the Student Profile to analyze all testing data;

• Apply time and structure for creative teaming for all staff;

• Examine and utilize building, district and community resources to support the whole child;

• Participate in job-embedded opportunities for ongoing collaboration and professional development;

• Enhance professional skills through acquired knowledge and staff development;

• Develop agreed-upon goals directly related to student achievement; and

• Evaluate building needs to broaden opportunities for community involvement at Highland.

 

Starting and Dismissal Times

• 7:35 a.m.   –   Busers unload and enter building
• 7:35 a.m.   –   Walkers admitted to the instructional area
• 7:45 a.m.   –   Tardy bell for K-5
• 1:58 p.m.   –   DCD/CID dismissed
• 1:58-2:02 p.m.   –   Students will be dismissed using a staggered schedule

 

Anti-Discrimination

District 196 does not discriminate in employment or in any of its programs and activities, including vocational opportunities, on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, marital status, familial status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, age or genetic information. District 196 provides equal access to designated youth groups. Please see District 196 Policy Against Illegal Harassment, Discrimitation, Violence or Hazing for more information.

                  

Attendance Guidelines - Establish the Habit of Good Attendance

Consistent attendance ensures a child’s success in school. In the state of Minnesota, it is the parents’/guardians’ legal responsibility that all elementary age children attend school. Elementary age students who miss 7 unexcused days of school or more, according to the Minnesota Statutes regarding education, are considered at risk for educational neglect and their parents are in violation of the state law on compulsory education (See MN Statutes 260C.007, Subd.19.) State guidelines require schools to record absences and tardies.

We know that starting in kindergarten, too many absences/tardies can cause children to fall behind. Even if students miss just a day or two every few weeks, or are tardy for school, their social and academic progress can be negatively affected.

For safety reasons, parents must report student absences by calling the school office at 952-423-7595 as soon as possible each day their child is absent. Parents must report a reason for the absence. If the school has not received a call before school begins the office will call parents at home or work to verify a student’s absence.

Excessive absences and/or tardies will result in a letter of concern from the school. It should be noted that three unexcused tardies may be considered as one unexcused absence. In some cases the school may require a doctor’s note or a visit to the school nurse for the absence to be considered excused. Tardies are defined as being late for school or leaving before the school day is over.

Please refer to the list below to determine if your child’s absence will be considered excused or unexcused by the school.

Excused Absences:

• Illness (may require a doctor’s note for verification)
• Appointments for doctor, dentist, or mental health
• Religious holiday
• Extreme family emergency
• Planned family vacation
• Funeral
• Unique circumstances which are pre authorized by a school 

Unexcused Absences:

• Child overslept/parent overslept
• Child missed the bus
• Child does not meet state immunization law requirements
• Child is babysitting a younger sibling
• Child does not have transportation to school administrator

If you have any questions regarding District 196’s attendance guidelines please contact your child’s principal or school social worker. We want to work together so all of our students have the best attendance possible.
Please see more information on attendance: English   Spanish   Somali

Assessments

See District 196 Assessments for information on student assessments and report cards.

 

Bicycles

Students who live on the south side of 142nd Street may ride bicycles to school.  Bicycles must be walked across the intersection.  Bicycles are to be placed in racks and locked.  Bicycles are not to be ridden on school property during school hours, including the noon hour and one-half hour after dismissal of school.  Bicycles may not be left at school overnight.  Bikes are to be ridden single file on the right side of the street.  Bicycle riders are expected to follow the same safety regulations as automobile drivers.  

Please note:  Students should not walk or bike across 140th Street or Pilot Knob Road unless accompanied by an adult. These roads are considered hazardous crossings. 

Birthdays

Children may not bring food or small gifts such as pencils or stickers to share with other students.  The primary reason for this change from the past practice is to comply with our district’s wellness policy on making healthy choices as requested by Section 204 of the Child, Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004.  The change also addresses increasing concerns about students affected by food allergies, childhood obesity and economic disparities.   Classroom teachers will recognize students in special ways on their birthday.

 

Bus Students/Student Drop-offs

The Transportation Department notifies parents concerning pickup and drop-off times for students who are bused to Highland School.  School bus safety patrols are placed on every bus to assist the driver with loading and unloading safety measures.  Students are to ride on the bus assigned to them unless they have a written request from their parents, signed by the principal, which would allow them to ride another bus.  A written parental request, signed by the principal, is also necessary for students to get off at bus stops other than their own.  Students need to make these arrangements before coming to school on any given day.  Parents should use the South parking lot to drop off or pick up students.  We request that you keep the traffic flow to a single lane for the safety of our children.  Please remember to pull ahead as far as you can and do not allow your child(ren) to walk between cars.  When stopped along the yellow curb, please do not leave your car unattended.   Thank you for making the safety of our children our first priority. We created a video visual of our drop off/pick up procedure to help aide in the safety and efficiency of these processes. Here is a link to that video.

 

Communication

All of us at Highland Elementary School are very interested in promoting communication between the staff, students and parents.  We encourage you to call or contact any staff member when you have concerns or need questions answered.  District 196 believes in a multi-dimensional, comprehensive communication system which includes but is not limited to:

A. Mass Notification – You may receive telephone calls via the district’s mass notification service. This mass communication system is available to quickly inform parents of any changes in schedules, snow days, early dismissals or other pertinent information that the school district or specifically Highland Elementary feels needs to be quickly communicated to parents.   The most common use of this service at the district level will be to inform parents of changes to the school day schedule.   When there is a weather-related change to the school schedule, the district will call just the primary (home) phone number listed for each student – one call per student. Parents can review and update their contact information in Campus Parent Portal.

B. The SPOTLIGHT is published quarterly at the District Office.  The SPOTLIGHT communicates information to all citizens in the district.  Items such as a district calendar, upcoming events, summaries of Board of Education meetings, etc. are printed for your information.  If you do not receive the SPOTLIGHT, call (651) 423-7700.

C. Parent/Teacher Conferences – Formal conferences are held twice during the fall and winter.  Evening and day appointments are available.  As always, if concerns come up throughout the year, parents may wish to call the teacher to schedule an additional time to meet.  You will be asked to sign up for a conference time online twice during the school year. You will be meeting with your child’s homeroom teacher at conferences.  If you would like to meet with special teachers such as music and physical education, appointments may be scheduled at that time also.  Please try to arrange your schedule so that you may attend at the appointed time.  Also, please call the school if you need to cancel your scheduled conference.

D. Report Cards – District 196 elementary schools operate on a trimester system.  Report Cards are available on Campus Parent Portal at the end of each trimester (December, March and June).  The purpose of the report card is to communicate a student’s achievement, behavior and effort based on our district grade level expectations and standards.  A grading scale of 1-4 is used, based on rubrics with easy-to-understand descriptors of what the student is able to do in each of the four achievement levels; 1) Limited, 2) Developing, 3) Proficient and 4) Exemplary.  For more information, go to the district website, www.district196.org/elementaryreporting.

E. Grade Level Newsletters – Grade level newsletters are sent home electronically through the List Serve or if you prefer, they can be sent home with your child.  The newsletters will keep you informed of what is happening in your child’s classroom, detail further units of study and other special grade level events.  In addition, special reading and math letters are sent at the end of each unit section to give details on the upcoming material.

F. Scottie Dogs Newsletter – A quarterly newsletter will be sent home electronically through the List Serve and posted on the Highland website.  The newsletter will keep you informed of building level activities/events at Highland.

G. School Visits – Parents are always welcome to visit Highland Elementary.  Remember this is your school!  If you would like to observe in the classroom, please schedule your visit with the teacher at least 24 hours in advance.  Please check in at the office before entering the instructional areas.  All visitors are asked to wear a nametag. 

H. Highland Web Site – www.district196.org/hl - At this web site we will attempt to keep you up-to-date with information such as lunch menus, calendars and newsletters. 

Curriculum

Highland utilizes all curriculum set by District 196. See District 196 Elementary Curriculum for more information.

 

Directory and Yearbook Information

By law, District 196 must give notice to parents regarding directory and yearbook information releases. Parents have the right to deny the release of some or all directory information by completing a form entitled, “Denial of Release of Directory and Yearbook Information (Espanol).” 

 

Dress

In general, students should wear clothing that is comfortable, in good taste and appropriate for the weather. 

Students should wear clothes that are safe, do not disturb or distract other students, and are appropriate for learning. Except on special days, caps/hats are generally not worn during the school day.

Students are expected to go outside unless we have inclement weather.  During the winter months, students should be dressed appropriately.  Boots are required if there is snow on the ground.  The wind chill factor and temperature are checked before students go outside for recess.  

 

Emergency Procedures

Fire drills, tornado drills, bus evacuation drills and lockdowns will be held regularly during the school year.  Procedures for these drills will be reviewed with students so they are aware of necessary measures. See https://www.district196.org/about/policies/700-business-operational-procedures/709 for additional information.

 

Food Allergies

We have students at Highland who have severe food allergies.

Allergic reactions can range from hives, itching and swelling in and around the mouth to anaphylactic shock, a severe reaction which causes difficulty breathing, vomiting and diarrhea, and even cardiac arrest.

We are working with the parents of these children to ensure a positive and safe school experience.  Any exposure to any food allergen, especially to peanuts and nuts could result in a very serious medical emergency.  We are asking all students to follow the precautions we have established because our students often come in contact with students in other grade levels through the school day. 

If your child does have an allergic reaction, please inform us immediately so we can work with you to develop a plan that will work for your child.  We are also asking that you work with your child(ren) to make sure your child’s face and hands are washed before coming to school, especially if he/she has just eaten peanut butter or a peanut product.  If your child attends a daycare before school, please advise them of this important concern.

We want to take a proactive approach to this situation and we appreciate all of the help that you can give us.  If you have questions about peanut allergies or any other allergy, please contact our school nurse, Amy Gillis.

For the safety of all our students, the decision was made that LATEX balloons will no longer be permitted at Highland.  Latex balloons pose two significant hazards to children.  First, with repeated exposure to latex, a natural rubber found in many products, an increasing number of people are becoming sensitive to latex and developing allergies to latex.  These allergies may be as minor as a skin irritation or as life threatening as respiratory and heart difficulties.  The only way to prevent an allergic reaction to latex is to strictly avoid latex. 

Secondly, deflated or broken balloons are a choking hazard, especially to children under the age of 8 years.  For these reasons, latex balloons are no longer permitted in many public areas such as hospitals, clinics, and daycares.  As we continue to strive for a safe learning environment for all our students, latex balloons will no longer be permitted at Highland.  Thank you for your understanding of our commitment to the safety of all children. See https://www.district196.org/services/health-services/allergies for additional information.

 

Homebound

Independent School District 196 provides homebound instruction for all students who are homebound with a serious illness or injury.  Students are eligible for this instruction when it becomes apparent that they will be absent for 15 consecutive days. See https://www.district196.org/about/policies/600-educational-programs/602/602821ar for additional information.

 

Homework

Homework is a positive supplement to daily lessons.  Being aware of and interested in what your child does at school is vital to his/her success in school.  Selecting a quiet area, as well as a specific time for homework, is important for your child.

 

Insurance

The district does not carry or offer insurance for accidents at school or during school activities.  Parents may wish to explore this type of coverage independently.

 

Lost and Found

Please label all your child’s belongings so that they may be identified if misplaced.  Lost and found is located in the main hallway.  If items are left on a bus, check with the Transportation Department.  Lost items are kept on each bus.

 

Lice (Pediculosis)

It is safe to assume that one or more students may have head lice at any given time during the year. We are asking parents to take a proactive approach to prevention and treatment of head lice so our focus at school can remain on teaching and learning.

Head lice are not an infectious disease but are a tremendous nuisance. The district Nursing Department website  (http://www.district196.org/headlice) contains updated information about preventing, detecting and treating head lice. We encourage all parents to read and familiarize themselves with this information so they know how to detect and treat head lice on their own children.

It is parents’ responsibility to check their children regularly for head lice whether or not symptoms are present. It is very time-consuming for our school nurse to check students for head lice and excludes students from valuable classroom time. If a teacher believes a student is showing symptoms of having head lice, the teacher will send the student to the school nurse to be checked. If the student has lice, a parent will be contacted.

There are many places children can be exposed to head lice. School is one of the least likely places for that to happen. Play dates, sleepovers, and the sharing of brushes, combs, helmets and hats are all common ways head lice are spread. Direct head-to-head contact is almost always necessary for the spread of lice to happen.

If you have questions, please first review information on the Nursing Department website. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

 

Nurse’s Office

The nurse at Highland is Amy Gillis.  Her hours are 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Good health is essential to successful learning. The purpose of the school health program is to maintain, improve and promote the health of the school-age child. See the nurse's page on the Highland website for health information throughout the school year.

 

Make-Up Work

You may request school work for your child if he/she has missed two or more consecutive days due to illness, vacation, etc.  Please do not request homework for a child who has missed a single day of school unless it is due to unusual circumstances.

 

Maltreatment Reporting by School Officials

A state law requires that a professional or delegate who is engaged in the practice of healing arts, social services, hospital administration, psychological or psychiatric treatment, child care, education or law enforcement must report maltreatment of children. See District 196 Maltreatment Policy for more information.

 

Pet Policy

Please do not bring family pets to school for visitation/sharing.  Student allergies and uncharacteristic, nervous responses by animals create health and safety concerns at school.  (Also, please be aware that it is against district policy for any living creature [including insects] to be transported on the school bus.)

 

Meal Program

Breakfast and lunch will be served each day. If you have not already done so, please create a PayPams meal account prior to August 30. Breakfast and lunch are FREE FOR ALL STUDENTS during the 2021-22 school year because of special funding from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. As always, you may send lunch from home if you choose. More information about school meals can be found on the district's Food and Nutrition Services webpage.

 

Playground Rules

All teachers review our playground rules with their students at the beginning of each school year.  Any inappropriate behavior on the playground could result in a child losing playground time.  The only playground equipment which may be brought to school from home is any kind of soft ball (tennis balls, Nerf balls, volleyballs) and jump ropes.  This equipment is your child’s responsibility and should be labeled with his/her name.

 

Recess

The benefits of exercising and socializing with peers are important to a student’s physical and mental health as well as school performance.  In general, if your child is well enough to attend school, he or she should plan on going outdoors for recess.  Please make sure your child brings appropriate clothing (coat, snow pants, boots, hats and mittens) for the weather conditions.

At times when a child is recovering from an illness and you feel that he or she needs to stay indoors for a short period of time (less than 3 days), please provide a written note.  The note should state why your child may not go outside for recess as well as the length of time you would like him or her to stay inside.  If your child needs to stay inside for longer than 3 days, please contact the school nurse as a physician’s note may be required.

If your child has activity restrictions and may not participate in all activities at recess, he or she will still be able to go outside.  Highland staff will monitor your child to ensure he or she is following the appropriate restrictions and remains safe.

 

School Closing Information

The district will publicize school closings and make schedule change announcements via School Messenger (telephone call). You may also access this information by tuning into the following stations:

• WCCO-AM  (Radio 830 AM)
• WCCO-V (Channel 4)
• KSTP-TV (Channel 5)
• KARE-TV (Channel 11)
• District 196 Information Line – 651-423-7777

 

School Safety Patrol

Student safety patrols will be assisting students across 142nd Street before school (7:30 - 7:35 a.m.) and after school (2:05 - 2:15 p.m.) each day. Please instruct your children to obey the safety patrols and to cross the street only at the crosswalk.  The children should stay on sidewalks whenever possible.  We also need to remind students and parents that school safety patrols are not escorts to and from school, but are meant to be stationed to help students at the designated crosswalk. 

 

Security in the School

In order to ensure the safety of all children at all times, procedures have been set up in the schools.  The following procedures are in effect:  

1. All visitors to Highland are to report to the office where they will sign in and receive a name tag.  (Exceptions are school programs and conferences.)  Please sign out before leaving Highland. 
2. Parents wishing to pick up their children from school must come in to the office to do so.  At the office, the secretary will call your child to the office, and you may then sign him/her out.

 

Snacks

District 196 elementary schools follow our Wellness Policy and federal health guidelines.  Grade levels choosing to utilize snack options for their students will encourage families to provide healthy snacks with a preference of fruits and vegetables.  Snacks such as crackers, nuts, chips, etc. will not be permitted.

 

Telephone Calls by Students

Students should use the telephone at school only when absolutely necessary.  Permission needs to be secured by each child from his/her classroom teacher in order to use the phone.  Arrangements for transportation, visiting another child, etc., should be made before the student leaves home and requested by parents in writing.  We will not allow students to use the phone to arrange same-day visits with friends.

Student Cell Phones:  Student cell phones should be kept in backpacks at all times.  Since we do not have lockers in our building, we are not responsible for lost or stolen phones.  If you need to talk with your child via the telephone, please call the office and leave your message with the secretary.  We will forward the message to the child.  It is difficult to have students come to the office for telephone calls initiated by parents.

 

Telephone Calls to Teachers from Parents

Parents are encouraged to call the classroom teacher if there is ever a concern or question.  If the teacher is not available, please leave your name and number, and the teacher will return your call at his/her first opportunity.  We will not interrupt classrooms during the normal student day.  You may also contact teachers by leaving a message on their voice mail or e-mail.

 

School/Home Communication

Open communication between home and school is critical to your child's success.  We encourage you to call or contact us when you have concerns or need questions answered.  The following are some of the formal methods we will use to keep you informed about your child's experiences:

 

Site Council

The Highland Site Council consists of four parents, four staff members, the volunteer coordinators, and the principal of Highland. Members are elected for two-year terms.

The Highland Site Council advises, recommends and makes decisions in various areas that affect the operation of Highland. Fundraising and fundraising expenditures are examples of an area which the Council has decision making authority. Members of the Site Council may also be asked to serve on district-wide committees. Involvement with committees of this type will depend on the goals and priorities set forth by the district.

Our Site Council generally meets six times a year, after school. Meetings are posted on the Highland Website. Parent Forum, where parents have an opportunity to address the Site Council, is always the first part of our meeting. Parents are welcome at these meetings.

 

Volunteer Program

This fall, parent volunteers will be recruited to help at Highland.  Volunteers assist in the classroom, contribute to the basic skills program, work with computers, do clerical work and help on special art projects.  Many volunteers donate time on a weekly basis, but we welcome volunteers with a varying schedule or those who can work only at home.  In the event that you miss our fall volunteer request letter, you may call Highland at any time to volunteer your services.  Shannon Bradley and Michelle Goodman, Highland Volunteer Co-Coordinators, will be working with the Highland Site Council to coordinate the volunteer program and parent activities this year.

 

Disciplinary Policy

Highland Elementary School uses a discipline policy based on positive reinforcement and the Highland Elementary Bill of Rights. This means that good behavior will be acknowledged through individual class activities and reward days.

We feel that we have well-behaved children, but occasionally discipline problems will occur. In order for school and home to work together with these concerns, it is necessary to have some procedures outlined to create a common base of understanding. This policy outlines more specifically, the expectations and limits we at Highland Elementary have for student behavior and the procedures we use for dealing with inappropriate behavior.

Discipline is an opportunity to teach students missing skills.  Highland Elementary School uses a discipline policy based on shared power and accountability.  This means that all students are taught consistent school wide expectations that are modeled, practiced and taught throughout the school year. 

Behavior is communication and occasionally students may struggle to follow school wide expectations. To better understand trends in behavior and to support decisions regarding need for intervention it is necessary to have some procedures out lined.  This will also enable Highland Elementary staff and caregivers have procedures for a common base of understanding. This policy outlines, the expectations we have at Highland and our procedure for responding when a child demonstrates that they need some support following school wide expectations

There are minor incidents which occur each day at school that require a teacher or supervising adult to take the opportunities to help the child practice, and review what the expectations are in order to maintain a healthy learning environment.

Incidents that are considered minor include behaviors that can be managed in the classroom.  Depending on what will help the child the adult might decide too much talking, disturbing others at their seats, making inappropriate noises and not taking turns. Many times a student will respond by changing his/her behavior following a simple glance, a comment, a brief conference, a seating change, or removal from a desired activity. These techniques are used quite effectively. In order to be consistent in the above examples, as well as other incidents, we have developed the following procedure:

Adoption of a Bill of Rights, which consist of the following:

WE, THE STUDENTS AND ADULTS AT HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, HAVE A RIGHT TO BE SAFE.
This means that everyone has the responsibility to walk and keep hands and feet to oneself in order to create a safe atmosphere.

WE, THE STUDENTS AND ADULTS AT HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, HAVE A RIGHT TO LEARN.
This means that everyone has the responsibility to work quietly and independently without interrupting or disturbing others.

WE, THE STUDENTS AND ADULTS AT HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, HAVE A RIGHT TO BE RESPECTED.This means that everyone has the responsibility to be respectful and cooperative to others.

WE, THE STUDENTS AND ADULTS AT HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, HAVE A RIGHT TO HAVE ALL PROPERTY RESPECTED.
This means that everyone has the responsibility to protect all property from damage.

We feel by stating what is expected of students and staff at school, any disciplinary action that may be necessary will be more clearly understood by all those involved.

When any of the above stated rights are broken a series of warnings will take place.  If the rights are broken after verbal warnings students will be given a Behavior Reflection Form and parents will be notified.  Teachers will communicate grade level expectations and reward policies to parents and students early in the school year. 

This discipline plan is to be used in all areas of the school which are used by students.  These areas include the playground, lunchroom, library and hallways.  The classroom teachers will also include the use of the Highland Elementary Bill of Rights in setting up class rules. 

Adjustments to this policy are made for primary students (K-2).  Part of educating children is helping them develop appropriate social skills.  Teaching these kinds of skills is emphasized more at an earlier age.  As students work and progress through elementary school more responsibility and accountability for behavior are given to our students.  Therefore, we would not have the same expectations for a kindergarten student as we would for a fifth grade student.  If we can work together to understand and deal effectively with behavior exhibited, then together  we have done our job in helping our children cope effectively with their behavior and in creating a healthier climate for learning at Highland Elementary. 

 

Appropriate Behavior Counts at Highland

At Highland, we believe it is important to look specifically at how we celebrate and recognize student accomplishments. One way we celebrate is our school wide positive behavior program called Appropriate Behavior Counts. Students earn ABC tickets for demonstrating positive behaviors or random acts of kindness. Once a student earns an ABC ticket, they bring it down to the office and place it in a blue box. They then have a chance to earn an ABC pencil during a drawing at one of the assemblies during the year. Children practice and learn social and group behaviors as well as feel part of the school community during these celebrations.

 

Telephoning Parents Regarding Discipline Concerns

Telephoning a parent because of a discipline problem may be used independently of or in conjunction with any disciplinary action.  Often, a telephone call home may suffice in solving a discipline problem.  We will definitely involve parents at an early stage if we feel we need any additional information and support.

 

Sending Students to the Principal

A student will be sent to the principal whenever he/she has posed a problem in the classroom for a length of time and other disciplinary procedures have been tried.  It is intended to be used as a last resort rather than a routine procedure.  The exception to this would be a severe incident such as fighting or physically harming another student, deliberate destruction of school or personal property, possession and/or use of dangerous instruments, and flagrant disrespect for an adult in charge.

 

Rights and Responsibilities

The school district’s “Rights and Responsibilities” handbook has been mailed to all families.

Please review this information with your child(ren) because it will contain some changes from last year.  This handbook contains the school district’s discipline policy and the consequences for inappropriate behaviors.  It is important for students and parents to be aware of the contents of this policy.

 

Special Programs/Services

Assurance of Mastery
The Assurance of Mastery (AOM) Program gives assistance to students in the areas of reading, math or written language.  This daily help is given on a one-to-one basis or in a small group setting by trained Assurance of Mastery personnel.

 

Band
The instructional music program at Highland provides instruction for band instruments in small and large groups.  Instruction begins either the summer before fifth grade or at the beginning of the school year.

 

English Language Learners (ELD)
Highland's ELD Program provides students whose primary language is other than English with the opportunity to develop proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and comprehending the English language.  This program is tailored to the individual needs of each student. See https://www.district196.org/academics/english-learners for more information.

 

Gifted & Talented Program (GTD)
District 196 provides a continuum of services directed to meet the needs of gifted and talented students.  Services include curriculum differentiation provided by classrooms teachers as well as academic opportunities offered by building GTD specialists. Additional activities may also be offered after or before school in the form of competitions, classes, and fairs. Students may self-select some opportunities, while others are offered based on standardized test scores and/or recommendations by classroom teachers. Students selected for more specialized programming meet criteria that are consistent throughout all District 196 schools.  See District 196 GTD Program for more information.

 

Media Center
Library is taught by a Media Specialist.  Each grade level has specific curriculum taught to them at the media center, and children are allowed to check out books at this time.  No fines are charged for overdue books, but parents are encouraged to help their child(ren) remember to return books on time.

 

Reading Recovery
Reading Recovery is an early intervention program for first grade students.  It provides daily individual instruction for children who need extra help in reading by building on what the child can do.  Every lesson has both reading and writing activities designed to meet a particular child's needs.  The goal is to develop early reading strategies at an accelerated pace so the child can benefit from classroom instruction. 

 

Safe and Supportive Minnesota Schools
Students have the right to be safe and free from threatening situations on school property, at school activities and in district vehicles. Bullying interferes with students’ ability to learn and teachers’ ability to educate students in a safe environment. To the extent bullying affects the educational environment of the schools, it is the school district’s intent to prevent bullying from occurring, and to investigate and respond to bullying that has not been prevented.

The Safe and Supportive Minnesota Schools Act defines bullying as intimidating, threatening, abusive or harming conduct that is objectively offensive and there is an actual or perceived imbalance of power between the student engaging in prohibited conduct and the target of the behavior and the conduct is repeated or forms a pattern; or materially and substantially interferes with a student’s educational opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, services or privileges.

The Act defines cyberbullying as using technology or other electronic communication,including, but not limited to, a transfer of a sign, signal, writing, image, sound or data, including a post on a social network Internet website or forum, transmitted through a computer, cell phone or other electronic device.

Bullying behavior should be reported to a staff member. The district’s processes for reporting and responding to bullying behavior can be found on the district website. For Administrative Regulation 503.8AR, Bullying Prohibition, go to http://www.district196.org/District/schoolboardpolicies/500/503.8AR.pdf. For Procedure 503.8P, Report of Bullying Behavior, go to http://www.district196.org/District/schoolboardpolicies/500/503.8P.pdf.

School Social Work Program
The School Social Worker provides proactive educational support, as well as individual and group supportive services to help students overcome barriers to learning.  The School Social Worker works directly with individual students, students in small groups and students in the classroom setting to enhance social and emotional skills, teach problem solving skills, cope with family changes and loss, teach anger management coping strategies and help students respect themselves and others.

The School Social Worker's overall goal is to work directly with students and their families, teachers and other support staff to provide the guidance and support so essential to academic success.  The school social worker also consults and advocates for families regarding parenting strategies, connects families with community resources and assists in times of crisis.  See the Highland Mental Health Resources for more information and support.

 

Special Education Programs
Special programs are set up for students who qualify for service in the areas of learning disabilities, speech, adaptive physical education, occupational therapy, physical therapy and emotional/behavioral disorders.  Children may be referred to the child study team by parents, classroom teachers, special education staff, outside agencies already serving the child, or by the child him/herself.

The team, for an individual child, will include—1) the parent, 2) the child’s current classroom teacher, 3) appropriate special education staff and other support personnel (i.e., psychologist, social worker, school nurse and SLD personnel involved in assessment and implementing the educational plan) and 4) a school administrator or designee.

The team may also include professionals and other representatives from the community who are providing medical or social services for the child, or particular persons who are for any reason, knowledgeable about the needs of the child.  Parents are essential members of the team and will be involved in all decisions regarding the Individual Educational Plan developed for their child. See https://www.district196.org/academics/special-education for additional information.

Statewide Tests

The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) were developed by the state of Minnesota to evaluate district, school and individual student progress on the State standards.  These tests are administered to all students in grades 3, 4 and 5 in public schools throughout Minnesota.  There is no minimum passing score required on the MCAs.

Test dates are as follows:

• The reading test for students in grades 3, 4 and 5 will be given during the following testing window: March 7, 2022-May 6, 2022.The reading text includes multiple-choice and open-response questions that test skills in comprehension, interpretation and evaluation. 
• The math test for students in grades 3, 4 and 5 will be given during the following testing window: March 7, 2022-May 6, 2022 This on-line math test includes multiple-choice and open-response questions involving shape, space and measurement, number sense, and chance and data handling.
• MAP – grades 2-5
  • September 27, 2021-October 29, 2021

 

School Psychologists, School Social Workers and School Nurses are some of the school staff who are specially trained to provide mental health supports and have a specific skill set to understand school systems and learning, as well as how student’s behavior and mental health impact their overall wellbeing and academic functioning. Meet the Highland Mental Health Support Staff and see what they have to offer.

2023 Winter Highland Elementary conferences will be help Wednesday, February 8 from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM and Thursday, February 9 from 11:00 PM - 7:00 PM.  You will be notified via email when sign up begins.

Conference Sign-Up

The Highland Parent Teachers Organization launched in Fall 2022. It is headed up by an executive committee that is made up of five elected positions. The wider PTO is comprised of parents from our school community.

Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every second month - please check the Calendar for date confirmation as there is occasionally an exception to the rule due to conflicts with school events.

The Parent Teachers Organization is committed to supporting the Highland Community. This is done through financial support, volunteer projects within the school, volunteer hours during school events and our annual fundraiser held in May.

All queries should be directed to highland196pto@gmail.com

Visit the PTO Site

1:1 Parent Resources

1:1 Student Resources

Technology Help for Families

Postcards will be mailed August 16, 2021, to families of students eligible to receive transportation to and from school during the 2021-22 school year.

The postcard includes information on bus stop locations and pick-up/drop-off times. Parents and guardians who do not receive a postcard and believe their child is eligible to receive transportation can call the Transportation Department at 651-423-7685. The district also offers optional transportation service for a fee for students who do not qualify based on the current service distances; for more information, visit the Transportation Department page.

Bus stop information is also available through the Infinite Campus Parent portal. Click on “More,” then “Transportation.” This information is updated nightly to reflect any changes to bus routes and stops.

Optional transportation service for a fee is available to families whose children are not eligible for free transportation based on current service distances.

OPTIONAL BUS SERVICE IS $300 FOR THE ENTIRE SCHOOL YEAR

The annual cost is $300 per student, with a $600 family maximum. Families whose children qualify to receive free or reduced-price school meals receive the service for a discounted rate. State law requires districts to provide transportation for students living two miles or more from their school and for students who receive special education services and require transportation as part of their individual education program. Districts are allowed to charge a fee for transportation provided within the two-mile minimum radius, except transportation for individuals with special needs.

District 196 offers better service than required by state law. The starting point for elementary service is one mile from school and for middle school and high school service it is one and one-half miles. Students living within these distances from their school are not eligible for free transportation, except those who would, if they were to walk to school, need to cross a railway or roadway defined by district regulation as hazardous. Families whose children are not eligible for free transportation service based on distance or hazardous crossings have the option to purchase it.

For more information, visit the Transportation Department page or call 651-423-7685.