Bishop Elementary School

Bishop Elementary School was started in 1965 and named after Maude Mary Bishop. Miss Bishop taught in several elementary schools before joining the staff at Topeka High School where she taught Latin, Mathematics, History, Constitution, and English. She retired in 1941 after forty-three years in the classroom.

By 1969, Bishop Elementary School was already overcrowded and some students were housed in temporary portable classroom units. In 1970, the Topeka Public Schools Board of Education approved an addition to the school using the open classroom concept. Bishop now serves students in levels Kindergarten through Five with a current enrollment of approximately 300.

The primary unit consists of spacious classrooms arranged in pairs which are divided by a movable wall. The intermediate room of the school is an open, carpeted area that can accommodate as many as nine classes. Indoor planters and skylights enhance the open environment, as opposed to the usual classroom with windows, and are located throughout the building. Most recently (Summer 2002), three additional classrooms were added to the southeast corner of the building to allow for an extended day Kindergarten program to be initiated.

Parents and guardians are automatically given PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) membership status when they enroll their students. The are expected and encouraged to participate in all school activities to the extent that they have time and interest.

The Bishop Elementary School staff considers the home a vital support to the educational process, and the parent is an important partner in the childs learning. Many parents have been involved in the instructional program of Bishop students as volunteers. All community members are encouraged to become involved in the schools activities and visitors are always welcome.

Since 1970, Bishop Elementary Schools logo has been the Bulldog and the official school colors have been green and white. In 2001, a school song was adopted and is sung at each assembly or special school gathering.

During the 1997-1998 and again during the 2002-2003 school year, Bishop became an accredited elementary school through the Kansas Quality Performance Accreditation (QPA) process. School improvement initiatives are constantly being upgraded. At the present time, Bishop is addressing the school improvement process by participating in the North Central Association (NCA) process as a Cycle III school.

Bishop School Song(Sung to the Tune of Yankee Doodle)

Bishop Grade School, green and white,
we wear your colors proudly!
Students, parents, teachers, too, will
sing your praises loudly.

Bishop Bulldogs make the grade.
Bishop Bulldogs rule.
Bishops where the future made.
We love you, Bishop School!
(Repeat once)

By Kevin Han, Fourth Level Bishop Student
Adopted March, 2001

Building Wide Discipline Plan

Attached is a copy of Bishops building wide discipline plan. The plan was adopted in the fall of the 2000-2001. Each parent (Guardian), Bishop student, and classroom teacher will sign the Bishop Team Contract.

Signing the contract does not mean that you agree with it. It is documentation that you are aware that a school wide discipline plan exists and you have had the opportunity to review the procedures and content included in it.

While the school wide discipline plan covers most behavior and discipline instances, specific areas reserve the right to modify the plan as needed There have been specific rules and student expectations for various classrooms and areas of the building. They include the following:

General Expectations of Students

  • Follow adult directions.
  • Respect the space of others
  • Speak politely to others.
  • Walk quietly in the halls and restrooms.
  • Respect school property and materials.

Playground Rules

  • Follow adult directions.
  • Use and return equipment properly.
  • Speak politely to others.
  • Fighting, name calling, profanity, and teasing are prohibited.
  • Stop playing when the bell rings.
  • Walk on the blacktop, line up quietly, and quickly.
  • Remain orderly in line.
  • The tunnels are off limits to students in Levels 3, 4, and 5.
  • No tag or chasing anywhere.

Specific Outside Recess Rules

  • Stop playing when the bell rings and line up.
    Do NOT hit the ball one more time, swing one more time, shoot a basket one more time, climb one more time, dribble or toss the ball one more time, or do anything one more time.
  • Walk to the building quickly and quietly.
  • Line up on your line, along the building, or as directed quietly.
  • No tag or chasing.
  • Leave rocks, sticks, and snow on the ground.
  • Use equipment appropriately. Balls--Put back in cart or take to classroom when you are finished playing. Swings--Swing back and forth only, no twisting.
  • Do not kick balls on the hard surface playground area.
  • Soccer and tennis courts as well as tether ball poles will be assigned to grade levels.

Rules for Jacobs Ladder

  • Students may climb the ladder on their hands and feet or hands and knees. Students may not walk up the ladder like it is stairs (with no hands.)
  • Only one student may be on the ladder at a time. The next student in line may not rock the ladder back and forth while there is someone climbing.
  • When the student reaches the top, he/she have different options for getting back down:
    • back down the ladder in reverse
    • turn over and scoot down the ladder on the bottom
    • carefully climb over and slide down the red pole
    • sit down on the top rung and jump off to the side
  • Students may not stand up and jump off of the top of the ladder!

Soccer Rules

Before the soccer game starts, students need to tell the teacher who the goalie is for each team. These are the only two students who may touch the ball with their hands. Students will be placed on the wall if the break any of the following rules during the game:

  • Only the goalies may use their hands.
  • This is to be no fouling (pushing, tripping, kicking, etc.).
  • The ball should not be kicked over the fence on purpose.
  • If the ball should go over the fence, only one student should go get it.

Specific Inside Recess Rules

  • Maximum group size is 4 students.
  • Do not move from activity to activity.
  • Write on the chalkboard with the teachers permission.
  • Stay in your classroom.
  • Ask for permission to use the restroom or get a drink.

Positive Reinforcement

Verbal praise.
Positive notes and telephone calls to parents.
Certificates and awards are given to students.

Consequences

Conference with teacher and/or principal.
Loss of recesses and/or privileges.
In School Suspension.

Classroom Rules

Follow directions.
Raise your hand and be recognized before talking.
Keep hands, feet, or objects to yourself.
Walk quietly in the building. (Walk inside, run outside!)
Be ready to work when school begins.

Vocal Music Class Rules

Follow directions.
Raise your hand to respond.
Respect the space that belongs to others.
Misunderstandings that occur during class will be discussed outside of class time.

Physical Education Class Rules

Follow directions.
Raise your hand before speaking.
Respect the space of others.
Walk quietly inside the building.

Media Center Rules

Follow directions.
Enter study area quietly and sit down.
Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
Hold up your hand for permission to speak.

The following general building wide rules/guidelines have been approved by the Bishop staff:

PRIMARY (Levels K, 1, and 2)

  • Be prepared for the day
  • Listen and follow directions
  • Respect others
  • Practice safety at all times.
  • Walk quietly in the building.

INTERMEDIATE (Levels 3, 4, and 5)

  • Follow directions.
  • Walk quietly in the building at all times.
  • Be recognized before you speak.
  • Be prepared for the day by 8:30 a.m.
  • Keep hands, feet, and other objects to yourself.
  • Verbal put downs and negative body language are not permitted.
  • Talk quietly when working in small groups.

General Guidelines

Students not eating breakfast at school should arrive at school between 8:15 and 8:20 in the morning. Students are not to arrive earlier unless there has been prearrangement with the teacher and approval of the principal. Students eating breakfast at school can enter the building at 8:05 a.m.

Students are expected to go outdoors during recess when the weather permits. If a child must stay inside for health reasons, the teacher should be informed with a note or telephone call from parents.

Students in Levels 3, 4, and 5 are allowed to ride bicycles to school and park them in the bike rack in the front of the building during the school day. Locks and other safety equipment are recommended. The school will not be responsible for loss or damage to bicycles ridden to school. For safety reasons, younger students (Kindergarten through Level 2) are asked to not ride bikes to school. If a bicycle is ridden to and from school, please be safe by stopping, looking, and waiting for cars and other vehicles when necessary.

Bishop students who walk to school are asked to utilize available sidewalks in the neighborhood rather than walking across individual yards and private property to get to and from school. Bishop students who live across the creek/ditch (drainage channel) at the west end of SW 31st Street (near Atwood and 31st) are asked to walk around on the sidewalks by Twilight Drive and Stone Avenue to get to and from Bishop rather than cutting across private property (the drainage channel) as a short-cut. In addition, students are to report directly home upon school dismissal.

Students who are tardy should report to the office to be issued a pass before going to class. Tardies will be monitored closely. They should only occur on a rare occasion. Students are asked to be in school on time! When excessive tardies are recorded, students will be expected to make up lost instructional time during recess.

Students are expected to show courtesy and respect to others at all times.

Students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately in the lunchroom. Good manners should be displayed at all times.

Radios, tape players, compact discs, beepers, cellular telephones, skateboards, gum, pop, candy, and other toys or playthings should be left at home. They are not appropriate items for students to bring to Bishop. Bishop will not be responsible for personal items that are misplaced, lost, or stolen.

The school telephone is a business phone and should not be used by the students unless there is an emergency. Teacher permission is needed before a student may use the telephone.

These behavior guidelines and school rules are in effect at all times. Students participating in before or after school activities should observe all rules and act accordingly.

Students who ride the bus are expected to practice rules on the bus. Only students who qualify for district bus transportation are allowed to ride the bus. Any bus transportation changes need prior approval from the USD #501 Transportation Office. Unless special permission and/or arrangements are completed, no unauthorized students will be allowed to ride the bus.

Your child may bring treats to celebrate his/her birthday. A prepackaged treat or finger food that can be consumed in a very few minutes before dismissal may be given as a birthday treat. Balloon grams and other deliveries at school are discouraged. Such items will be held at the office until dismissal. If you send party invitations to school for distribution, all students in the classroom must be invited and receive an invitation.

Any medication given at school must be given by the school nurse, office personnel, or parent. Appropriate permission forms must be completed and filed with the office.

Students are not allowed to throw snow, pick up rocks, carry sticks, or any potentially dangerous item at any time while on school grounds.

Emergency Procedures

Procedures for emergency procedures include the following:

Fire Drill--To ensure that students and staff will respond appropriately in case of fire, a monthly fire drill will be completed.

Severe Weather WATCH--Issued when poor weather conditions exist which may produce severe electrical storms, heavy rain or snow, hail or sleet, and strong winds. Tornadic conditions are not present. The decision of completing scheduled after school events or canceling after school events is at the discretion of the Principal. According to USD #501 policy, if a weather watch or warning is issued before a scheduled event begins, it is canceled and/or rescheduled.

Severe Weather (Thunderstorm) Warning--Issued when rough weather conditions exist that are producing severe electrical storms, heavy rain or snow, hail or sleet, and strong winds. When such a warning is issued, all school events are canceled and/or rescheduled.

Tornado WATCH--If a severe weather or tornado WATCH is issued during school hours, the following procedure will occur:

  • Outdoor activities will be canceled and we will proceed with indoor activities.
  • The weather radio in the office area will be monitored by office personnel and the head building operator.
  • No after school activity or meeting will be held.

Tornado WARNING--If a tornado warning is issued during the school hours, the following procedure will occur:

  • A tornado drill emergency signal will be sounded and all students and staff must proceed promptly to the designated shelter area (the Bishop gym has been reinforced for our safety).
  • All persons will stay in the designated shelter area until an all clear has been given by the Principal or designated person in charge of the building.
  • Students will be released only to parents/guardians who must sign them out before leaving the shelter area (gym).
  • Students will be kept in the shelter area beyond regular dismissal time if an all clear signal has not been given. Once the all clear is given, students will be dismissed or return to their regular schedule.
  • When such a warning is issued, all school events are canceled and/or rescheduled.

Drop Drill--A Safety Drill Procedure

Code Word for the Drill--Drop

Procedure*

  1. The code word Drop is announced.
  2. Students and staff will drop to the floor where they are.
  3. Students and staff will get as flat as possible.
  4. Students and staff will cover their heads.
  5. Lights will be turned out if possible.
  6. Students and staff should remain silent; not drawing attention to themselves.

* The drill may be conducted on the playground periodically. The code on the playground will be three whistle blows and a hand signal of safe will be given.

A safety drill may be completed once a month similar to fire drills.

AN ALPHABETICAL LISTING OF POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND PRACTICES IN EFFECT AT BISHOP ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (FOR QUICK REFERENCE)

Accident Insurance--No district paid student accident insurance policy is carried by the Topeka Public School district, USD #501, on each student attending classes in the school system. If you are interested in purchasing an accident insurance policy for your child, please contact the USD 501 Business Office for additional details.

Activity Day/Fun Day--At the end of the school year, the physical education teacher organizes a non competitive Fun Day or Activity Day for all Bishop students. Parents, guardians, and other volunteers are needed to make the event a success. Plan now to become involved.

Advisory Site Council--Periodically, the Bishop Advisory Site Council consisting of teachers, parents/guardians, business representatives, students, and other patrons will meet to discuss school issues relating to the School Improvement Process (SIP) and state accreditation through Quality Performance Accreditation (QPA). A list of representatives will be distributed. Please feel free to contact one of them to give your input and/or attend any scheduled Advisory Site Council meeting.

Affirmative Action--Topeka Unified School District 501 is committed to affirmative action and equal opportunity for employment. No student shall, on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, handicap or national origin, be denied access to any appropriate educational program or activity provided by the district. The Title IX compliance coordinator is the General Director of Curriculum and Instruction and the Section 504 compliance coordinator is the General Director of Special Services.

After School Student Pick Ups--Please make arrangements to have your students picked up no later that 10 minutes after dismissal time. School dismisses at 3:30 p.m., Levels Kindergarten through 5. Many afternoons, staff members need to be attending meetings and/or have other school related responsibilities. Thus, supervision is not always available. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Appointments to See the Principal are Requested--If you wish to personally visit with the Bishop Principal to discuss an issue or concern, please make arrangements with the Secretary by calling the school office at 271-3735 to schedule an appointment.

Arrival of Students--Students not eating breakfast at school should arrive at school between 8:15 and 8:20 a.m. when staff supervision is provided in front of the building. As students arrive, they are asked to line up in preparation for orderly entry into the building at 8:20 a.m. Students eating breakfast at school are allowed to enter the building at 8:05 a.m. Classes officially begin at 8:30 a.m.

Asbestos--The school district has had all facilities inspected by a certified asbestos inspector. If found, an asbestos management plan includes the following: Location of asbestos-containing material, education and training of the Bishop staff, and a set of plans and procedures designed to minimize the disturbance of the asbestos containing materials, and plans for regular surveillance of the asbestos containing materials. A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan is available for your inspection at school. Inquiries regarding the plan should be directed to the Director of Topeka Public Schools Facilities Manager at 575-6755.

Attendance--Regular and prompt attendance is expected. Illness, doctor appointments, and bereavement absences are excused. You are expected to call the office (271-3735) each day that your child is absent. If no call is received, an unexcused absence will be entered in the computer. Excessive absences and/or tardies will be reported to the school district truancy officer which may result in an investigation by Social Rehabilitation Services. A student is considered truant if an unexcused absence occurs 3 days in a row, a total of 5 days during a semester, or a total of 7 times during the school year.

Attendance is Recorded as Follows--T--Tardy--Kindergarten through 5--Arrive at school after 8:30 and before 9:30 a.m. Students arriving after 9:30 a.m. are considered absent. Students who have appointments or are not in attendance due to any other reason are recorded as being absent.

Badges to be Worn by School Visitors and Volunteers--When parents/guardians, visitors, and volunteers come to Bishop, they are asked to check in and check out at the office. Each visitor will be issued a VISITOR badge to wear. This will indicate to students and staff who may not know you that your presence in the building is known by the school office. For safety and security purposes, staff members who do not see a badge have been asked to report you to the office. This is another strategy used to insure student and staff safety. When picking up students, please come to the office FIRST to register your arrival. In many instances, the office will contact the teacher and announce your arrival.

Block Parent Program--Bishop Elementary School and the Bishop neighborhood participates with the Topeka Police Department in establishing a BLOCK PARENT PROGRAM. Over 15 houses in the neighborhood have been approved to participate in the program that provides a safe place where students can go for assistance if they find themselves in an emergency situation or need help from an adult but are unable to return to school or get home. The program is designed to ensure safety while walking to and from school. Bishop students have been told and will be told that they can safely go to a home displaying the BLOCK PARENT sign any time adult assistance is needed. If you would like to participate, contact the school. Applicants are checked out by the police department and meet qualifications standards. Students will be offered an additional alternative by being told to return to the school immediately when they become confused or when they do not know what to do and need help. This is especially true if they cannot find a BLOCK PARENT house in the immediate neighborhood.

BLOCK or Leveled Reading--For a period of each school day, students will be divided according to needs and skills into appropriate reading instruction groupings. Instruction may or may not be provided by the students core or homeroom teacher. Block reading has been initiated at Bishop so that students can be taught on their instructional level. The groupings are fluid so that changes in group assignments can be completed as needed. The BLOCK READING concept was investigated by and is supported by the Bishop Advisory Site Council.

Breakfast Offered before School--Bishop Elementary School participates in the districts school breakfast program. Any student wishing to eat breakfast can pay the breakfast fee and eat. Students who qualify for free or reduced priced lunch also qualify for free and/or reduced priced breakfast. Breakfast time and schedule will be available through the office. Once the bell rings indicating that students should go to the classroom to prepare for the school day, breakfast will no longer be served that day.

Breakfast Payment--Payment for breakfast comes from the students food account. Breakfast needs to be ordered a day in advance.

Bus Evacuation Drills--In compliance with Kansas Department of Transportation regulations, the school district and bus company will conduct periodic bus evacuation drills.

Buses Allow NO FOOD to be Eaten--Food is not allowed to be eaten on a school bus. Opened food items will not be sent home on the bus and you should not send open food item to school either. Glass containers are specifically prohibited on school buses.

Cable Channel 14 Carries Topeka Public School Announcements and Programming--Announcements and special programming pertaining to Topeka Public Schools including Bishop Elementary School may be aired on Cable Channel 14. Watch this information channel for updates about various school district events, activities, and programming.

Calendar of School Events Kept in the Bishop Office--A master calendar of Bishop school events is kept in the Bishop office. If you have questions about what is happening at Bishop, please feel free to call the office at 271-3735 for clarification.

Call in Absences--When a student is going to be absent from school. Parents/guardians are asked to contact the school by telephone (271-3735) to report the absence. If the call must be made before office hours, please leave a message on the answering machine. In this day and age, verification of student safety is important. In addition, if no contact is made by you, an unexcused absence or tardy will be recorded. Unexcused absences and tardies lead to truancy and reporting to Social Rehabilitation Services (SRS).

Caring Program for Children--The Caring Program, Healthwave, a primary and preventive health benefit program for children sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield, provides for 12 office visits, yearly preventive health care checkups and immunizations, vision examination, as well as 4 emergency room visits free of charge to children 18 years of age or younger who meet federal income guidelines. School nurses and elementary school counselors have resource information and student application forms available if interested.

Chain of Command--All school concerns should be dealt with at the level which they occur. If a concern is not resolved at the teacher level, contact with the building administrator should be made. If the concern is not satisfactorily resolved at the building level, then the concern could be discussed with the Central Administration at the Administration Center for Topeka Public Schools, 624 SW 24th Street, Topeka, Kansas 66611. The telephone number is 295-3000.

CheckRite to Service Bishop Elementary School--Bishop Elementary School and Topeka Public Schools will be utilizing the services of CheckRite to collect any funds from checks that have been returned to us marked insufficient funds. Should an insufficient fund check be received, it will go directly to CheckRite. You will be required to contact the CheckRite office to satisfy your debt and/or resolve the matter.

Child Care Information--If your student goes to a day care provider before or after school, please be sure the school has that information so it can be added to our records.

Child Care Program Available--The Topeka YWCA hosts a before and/or after school child care program at Bishop. Specific details, costs, and sign up forms are available in the Bishop Office.

Circle Drive is for BUSES ONLY!--During the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on school days, the CIRCLE DRIVE in front of Bishop is designated BUSES ONLY. For the traffic safety of Bishop students, no unauthorized vehicles will be allowed to use the circle drive. Exceptions will include: vehicles using the handicapped parking spaces, USD 501 service vehicles, and/or Bishop staff members needing to leave the west parking lot. PARENTS/GUARDIANS SHOULD NOT DROP STUDENTS OFF AND PICK STUDENTS UP IN THE CIRCLE DRIVE. IT IS SUGGESTED THAT STUDENTS BE DROPPED OFF AND/OR PICKED UP ALONG THE SOUTH SIDE OF 31ST STREET AND/OR THE WEST SIDE OF ARNOLD.

Classroom Assignments--Parent requests to have their child placed with a specific teacher are not taken. Classes must be balanced with boys/girls, majority/minority, potential discipline problem/not a discipline problem, high/medium/low achieving students, non special needs/special learning needs, etc. To achieve and maintain this balance, NO TEACHER REQUESTS can be honored.

In the third, fourth and fifth level classrooms, students are assigned to a CORE TEACHER. The core grouping goes to lunch, music and physical education together. Instructionally, students may have another teacher. Depending upon the students skill level and needs, the child may move between the teachers assigned to that level.

Clothing Bank is Maintained by the Topeka Public Schools, USD #501--USD #501 maintains a clothing bank. Any student, Headstart through High School who needs clothing and attends a school in Shawnee County is eligible to obtain clothing through the school clothing bank. Referral forms are available through the school office.

Concert/Program Etiquette at Bishop--Concerts and programs are opportunities for students to shine. They are also opportunities for students to observe and learn program/concert etiquette. Your assistance is needed to provide the example for Bishop students. As a result, you are asked the following:

  1. Turn off cellular telephones, beepers, and/or alarm watches prior to the start of the program or concert.
  2. During the performance, do not talk to your friend or neighbor.
  3. Show your approval respectfully by clapping; not by yelling out.
  4. If you must leave during the program/concert, try to leave at the end of the song. When returning, enter between songs.
  5. If you are late, please sit or stand quietly at the back of the gym.
  6. Younger brothers and sisters need to sit with parents and not play outside or roam through the school during the program/concert.

Crosswalks Need to be Utilized by Bishop Students--For safety reasons, Bishop students will be asked and expected to cross the street only at marked crosswalks. It is not safe to cut between cars, buses, and other vehicles to cross the street.

Directory Information is Published Annually by the PTO--If you do not want anyone other than school personnel to have access to directory information (student name, address, telephone number, parent/guardian name, teacher, etc.) please let the office know by September 20. Directory information is published by the PTO in a booklet form for distribution and use by other parents, room mothers, and PTO representatives. If you request that directory information not be distributed on your student(s), you will not be included in the school directory. If no request is received by September 20, directory information on you and your family will be included in the schools directory.

District Citizens Advisory Council (DCAC)--Each year the Board of Education asks the District Citizens Advisory Council to give advise and recommendations on issues facing the district. The DCAC meets once a month. Bishop Elementary School has two representatives. If you would like to be considered as a potential DCAC representative, contact the Bishop Office.

Dress Code-- Students are asked to dress appropriately and respectfully. Shirts/blouses advertising alcohol or other inappropriate product, revealing tops that may have thin straps, for example, or blouses that show the abdomen (Crop Top), or clothing that distracts and interferes with the educational process such as sagging pants and tank tops with large arm holes would not be considered appropriate. When an inappropriate shirt is worn the student will be asked to wear it wrong side out for the day or a telephone call home to request that appropriate clothing be brought to school will be made. In addition, no baggy or oversized clothes, or sagging pants will be allowed.

Drive Safely--Please use extreme CAUTION when driving around Bishop. Our students are our most precious possession and we want to do everything possible to insure their safety.

Dropping Off Students and/or Picking Up Students--Parents/guardians who will be dropping their student(s) off and/or picking students up are asked to use the south side of 31st street and/or the west side of Arnold Avenue keeping next to the sidewalk for loading and unloading. It is not as safe to have students load or unload from a vehicle that requires the student to cross the street. If the other side of the street must be used, STUDENTS ARE ASKED TO USE THE CROSSWALKS AT ALL TIMES TO INSURE SAFETY.

Due Process for Evaluation by Special Education--If the parent of the child gives written consent for the evaluation, it may be initiated immediately. If written consent is not given, action shall not be taken for a period of 30 days. This period shall be for the purpose of affording the parent an opportunity to indicate the parents objections to the evaluation. If after the 30 day waiting period, the parent has not given consent to the evaluation, the local education agency shall attempt to meet with the parent and explain the need for the evaluation and answer questions of the parent. If the parent still refuses to consent to the proposed evaluation, the local education agency shall either accept the decision, or apply to a court of competent jurisdiction for an order directing the evaluation, or pursue a local education agency initiated hearing in regard to the matter.

Elementary Discipline Referral--Following (see attached page) is a sample of the type of documentation that is completed when a student visits the Principal in the office because of a teacher referral. A copy of this completed form or the computerized equivalent is routinely sent to parents so that you are kept informed. The student will be expected to be responsible for his/her own actions and develop a plan to resolve the situation.

Ethnic and Multicultural Activities at Bishop--Throughout the school year, Bishop students and staff will celebrate the ethnic and multicultural diversity within the school. Parents and guardians are welcome to participate in these celebrations.

Excused Absence--When parents contact Bishop about a student being absent, it is usually considered excused. After being absent for more than five days in a quarter due to illness, the absence may be considered excessive and the school may require a physicians statement to justify the students non school attendance.

Exit Doors to be Locked During School Hours--Another staff and student safety strategy that is implemented at Bishop Elementary School is to have the non main entry exit doors facing 31st street locked during regular school hours. All parents, visitors, and volunteers are asked to use the main, front entrance to the school when entering and exiting. Except for the main entry door in front of the school office, all outside exits are locked during the school day.

Fifth Season--Tornado season always brings with it questions regarding the districts tornado policies. If a tornado watch is announced prior to a school event getting under way, the event will be canceled or postponed. If a tornado warning is sounded during school hours, students and staff will go immediately to the schools tornado shelter. Schools schedule regular tornado drills just as they do monthly fire drills. School is not dismissed during the day because of severe weather, but parents may pick up their children any time the weather is creating an unsafe condition. All students must be checked out by a parent/guardian. The school day will be extended if a tornado warning is in effect at regular dismissal time.

First Day of School for Students--Wednesday, August 19, 2004, is the first day of class for all students in the Topeka Public Schools.

Five UP!--To get students attention, Bishop staff may vocalize and demonstrate Five Up with their hands. Five Up is the school wide signal for students to behave as follows:

  • Put their eyes on the speaker.
  • Keep their mouth quiet.
  • Be still.
  • Keep hands free and quiet.
  • Listen

Flushing Toilets After Use and Washing Hands--Bishop students are asked to flush the toilet and wash their hands after each use. This practice helps control germs and keeps restrooms fresher.

Free or Reduced Lunch Prices--If you meet the income guidelines, your student(s) may qualify for free or reduced meals at Bishop. Application can be completed at any time throughout the school year. Specific information is available from the school office.

Gift Books to Bishops Media Center/Library--Many library books have been added to the Bishop library through student birthday and other special occasions. Many families choose to honor their child on his/her birthday by purchasing a new book for the school media center. If you would like to participate, see the Library/Media Specialist for book title suggestions.

Head Coverings--Head coverings (caps, hats, and hoods) should be worn only outside the school building and are restricted inside the school and classroom.

Health Notes--During the school year, your child could be sent to the nurse because of accident or illness. You or the emergency contact person you name, will be notified if the student must go home. It will be your responsibility to get medical attention unless the situation is so great that your child must be taken immediately from school by ambulance. Then you will be notified as soon as possible. Emergency care is not given without parent or guardian permission. Therefore, it is important that the school be advised when parents are not on their regular schedule.

For the protection of all students, the following rules have been set and will be followed at all times. A student will be sent home with fever, suspected contagious disease, vomiting, diarrhea, feels too bad to function, and head lice. If your child has any of the symptoms listed during the night or in the morning before coming to school, please keep your child at home. A child with an elevated temperature should be kept home 24 hours with a normal temperature before returning to school. A child with a cold or rash should be kept home for observation.

If your child needs to take medication during school hours, a form needs to be completed by you. The physician will need to sign the form if the medication is to be taken 30 days or longer. The medication needs to be sent in a container clearly marked as to the medication contained therein, childs name, and specific instructions. If medication directions say three times a day, keep the medication at home and give before school, after school, and at bed time.

Please advise the School Nurse if your child has any health problems.

Health Insurance Program for Children--The Caring Program, Healthwave, a primary and preventive health benefit program for children sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield, provides for 12 office visits, yearly preventive health care checkups and immunizations, vision examination, as well as 4 emergency room visits free of charge to children 18 years of age or younger who meet federal income guidelines. School nurses and elementary school counselors have resource information and student application forms available if interested.

Hearing Screening--During the school year, hearing screening will be completed on the following students: Kindergarten, Level 1, Level 3, and Level 5. If your child does not pass the hearing screening, you will be contacted by the nurse. Height and Weight Records Updated Annually--Bishops school nurse annually updates all student height and weight records.

Home Language Survey--So that appropriate language services and support can be provided to students who qualify for the English Language Learners program (ELL) and such, each student who enrolls must have a Home Language Survey completed by an enrolling family member.

Hours/Length of the School Day--Regular school hours for the 2004-2005 school year will be as follows: School Begins at 8:30 a.m. School dismisses at 3:30 p.m. Thirty minutes will be scheduled for lunch and recess in the middle of each school day. If or when a half day of school has been scheduled, dismissal time is usually 11:40 A.M. and NO LUNCH is SERVED.

Immunizations--Unless an appropriate waiver form has been completed and filed with the school, all students must have required immunizations completed before school attendance is allowed. Contact your health provider or the Topeka-Shawnee County Health Department to update your students immunizations.

Intake--Students who are stranded or abandoned at school past 4:30 p.m. will be taken by USD 501 Security Officers to Intake. When the school cannot locate parents, guardians, emergency numbers and/or other contacts, Topeka Public Schools Security Officers will be contacted to take students to Intake at the Child and Adolescent Assessment Center. Intake provides care until parents can be located. Internet Availability and Student Access--Bishop Elementary School has school wide access to Internet. Teachers, parents, and students have the responsibility of using the resource appropriately. Before a student can utilize the Internet at Bishop, a form outlining the district policies and guidelines for appropriate use must be signed by the student, parent, and teacher (See attached form sample).

Internet Connection--Bishop Elementary School has access to the Internet. Bishops Home Page is available through Topeka Public Schools, USD #501s world wide web address is www.topeka.k12.ks.us

Internet Web Site Address--Bishops Internet e-mail address is as follows: http://www.topeka.k12.ks.us/bishop

Inside or Outside?--Students should always be dressed appropriately for the weather. During the winter, caps, hats. scarves, gloves, mittens, and boots should be worn. For primary students, if the wind chill or temperature is 20 degrees or lower, recess will be held inside the building. If the wind chill or temperature is higher than 20 degrees, recess will be outside. At the intermediate level, the decision of inside or outside will be made by the teachers on a recess by recess basis. Whenever something is falling from the sky, of course, recess will be held inside.

Insurance--No district paid student accident insurance policy is carried by the Topeka Public School district, USD #501, on each student attending classes in the school system. If you are interested in purchasing an accident insurance policy for your child, please contact the USD 501 Business Office for additional details.

Insurance Program to Meet the Medical Needs of Children--The Caring Program, Healthwave, a primary and preventive health benefit program for children sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield, provides for 12 office visits, yearly preventive health care checkups and immunizations, vision examination, as well as 4 emergency room visits free of charge to children 18 years of age or younger who meet federal income guidelines. School nurses and elementary school counselors have resource information and student application forms available if interested.

Intramurals--Throughout the school year, various after school intramural activities are sponsored by Bishop Elementary School and supervised by the physical education teacher. When developed for this school year, a schedule of activities, dates, what level can participate, and other information will be distributed. Participation in Intramurals is open to appropriate age students and there is no fee for participation.

Instrumental Music--Students in Level 3, Level 4, or Level 5 may participate in Strings. Students in Level 4 or Level 5 may participate in Band at Bishop Elementary School. Both band and strings sessions are scheduled in the early morning before school. Kindergarten Entrance Age--The age of entrance for students starting school (Kindergarten) is August 31. Children who have a fifth birthday on September 1 or later in the calendar year, will not be eligible to enter Kindergarten. Children must be at least 5 years old on or before August 31 of the school year to attend Kindergarten.

Kindergarten Orientation--Each spring, Bishop Elementary School sponsors a Kindergarten Orientation for in coming Kindergarten students. Parents of pre-kindergarten students are encouraged to attend. The orientation includes a short informative presentation for parents, a tour of the building, and new students get a sampling of what it is like to be in Kindergarten. The orientation session lasts approximately one hour. Your help is needed to provide names and addresses of students who will be 5 on or before August 31.

Laser Pens and Lights--Laser pens and lights are not to be brought to school. These items are considered to be dangerous by the Topeka Public Schools, USD #501 officials. Students having a laser light at school are subject to disciplinary action as described in district policy number 8125.

Leveled Math, Science, Social Studies and Language Arts--Intermediate students are involved in leveled instructional opportunities based on ability and need. Students will be assessed and divided into instructional groupings. The groupings are fluid so that changes in group assignments can be completed as needed. Since the BLOCK Reading has been so successful, it was decided to implement BLOCK or leveled instruction in all content areas. The instructional teacher may be different than the core group teacher assignment.

Lost and Found--Lost and Found items are placed in the red barrel located in the southeast playground entry. Please be sure to check the barrel for items that may belong to your child(ren).

Lunch Count--Lunch count will be taken the day before your child plans to eat. Please go over the menus with your child(ren) so they will know the day before if the wish to eat a school hot lunch or bring a cold (sack) lunch from home.

Lunch Charges--No More than 2 Lunch Charges will be allowed at Bishop Elementary School. Students will be notified of low lunch money at least two days before they run out of funds. If a student does run out of funds, he/she will be served a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a carton of milk as an alternative to charging. During the month of May, NO LUNCH CHARGES are ALLOWED!

Lunch Guests--If a student has a guest for lunch, they may choose to have lunch at a special table during lunch rather than sitting with their core group/class in the gym. This will enable them to visit privately and further enjoy the experience. Only the student and the guest are allowed to eat at the special table. Having friends sit with you and your guest will not be permitted.

Lunch/Breakfast Payments--To assist with breakfast/lunch money record keeping, please send breakfast and/or lunch money on the first school day of the week that your child plans to eat. For example, if your child plans to eat a hot lunch on Thursday, send the money on Monday! The office will not make change. Any money brought will be applied to the students food account.

Lunch Policy--No sharing or trading of food is allowed. Students are not required to eat or taste food items served. Students are expected to clear their trays when dismissed from the lunch tables and stack the dirty trays accordingly.

Lunchroom Procedure--

  • As the student enter, no talking is allowed (The lights will be low).
  • Students will go to the scanner/checker.
  • Students will announce their name to the person scanning.
  • Food served has to meet the lunch guideline standards.
  • Students will sit as directed: facing the stage first, then the back wall of the gym.
  • When all are served, the lights will come up (full lighting) and students can talk
  • If an item is forgotten and/or needed from the serving line, the student is asked to raise his/her hand and make the need known to an adult.
  • Students may raise the hand and request to use the restroom during lunch.
  • Head coverings are not to be worn during lunch.
  • Students are not to move around once seated.
  • At dismissal time, the lights will go down (low) and all talking must stop.
  • Students are dismissed by an adult table by table.
  • Students are expected to pick up all trash (napkin, straw, etc.) and take it with them to the dumpster.
  • Students walk to the center of the cafeteria and then to the dumpster.
  • Students are expected to clear their trays; if the food doesnt fall off, the student will be asked to scrape it off. An adult will be available to assist if needed most days.
  • Each student is asked to stack his/her tray into the return cart.
  • Each student then lines up on the west wall until instructed to go to recess.

Lunchroom Strikes--In an attempt to be fair, individual students who do not follow the lunchroom rules are asked to sit at a separate table. Individuals assigned to this table are dismissed from the lunchroom only when all of the paper/plastic items are picked up from the floor after everyone else has been dismissed.

However, when individuals cannot be identified for inappropriate behavior, the entire group is given a STRIKE. If three strikes are earned during the lunch period, a consequence occurs. The first consequence is that the lights do not come up during the period, thus no talking is allowed in the lunchroom. The optional consequence is standing by the wall if outside during recess or sitting with heads down at their desks if during indoor recess.

Medication at School--Medication (prescription or non-prescription) cannot or will not be given without a completed medication form and parent/guardian signature on file.

Newsletter Published Monthly--The Bishop Bulldog newsletter is published and usually distributed on the first school day of each month. The newsletter is another attempt to give you and your family important information about Bishop Elementary School. If you have items appropriate for publication, contact the office

MMR Shots--Most Level 5 students will be required to get a second MMR immunization during the spring semester of the school year. In the past, the school and the Topeka/Shawnee County Health Agency has scheduled a clinic at school to help students and their parents meet this state health requirement.

Nursing Services--USD 501 will cooperate with parents in circumstances when a student must take medication during the school day and the proper authorization to do so is provided. If your child is currently receiving medication at school or should the need arise, please follow these guidelines or the medication will NOT be given.

  1. A current permission document must be on file at school for each medication including inhalers. The school nurse and the teachers must be aware of all students having inhalers at school. This is especially important if your student participates in sports and uses an inhaler.
  2. Changes in the dose (amount of medication) and/or times to be given must be accompanied by a new permission form signed by the students doctor and parent.
  3. The medication for school must be sent in a container with the current accurate pharmacy label on it. The label should include the child’s name, dosage, and type of medication. This means that you will need two containers; one for school and one for home use.
  4. Send only the amount for one month of medication needed at school. Parents are to avoid scheduling medication given at school when possible. Medication that is to be give three times a day, for example, does not need to be given at school, except in special circumstances.
  5. Due to the potential negative reaction, a medication given for the first time will not be given at school.
  6. It is not safe to send medication, especially controlled substances, on the bus with your student.
  7. No student is to carry medication to class. If you send medication with your student, remind him/her to leave the medication with the school nurse or at the school office before going to class. The only exception is an asthma inhaler when the proper forms have been completed.
  8. With proper permission forms on file at school, students requiring inhalers may keep them on their person. They are reminded to be responsible for taking care not to leave them lying around where other students might attempt to use them. It is preferred to leave them in the Health Clinic with the school nurse.
  9. When all of the medication has been taken, the empty container will be returned to the parent to be refilled.
  10. Upon receipt of the medication at school the number of tablets will be counted by the school nurse. The parent will be notified if any problems develop.

Office Pass is Needed when Tardy--When a student must arrive at school late, he or she must obtain an Office Pass from the office before proceeding to class. This will help keep accurate attendance records and lunch records. TARDIES HAVE BEEN A PROBLEM AT BISHOP. IT IS VITALLY IMPORTANT THAT STUDENTS ARRIVE TO SCHOOL ON TIME. IF REPEATED TARDIES OCCUR, THE APPROPRIATE SOCIAL AGENCY WILL BE CONTACTED TO ASSIST WITH GETTING THE PROBLEM SOLVED.

One Hundredth Day of the School Year will be Celebrated by Bishop Primary Students--This day usually occurs in late January or early February. Primary students bring and display 100 items of their choice. The display of items is usually very interesting because of the creativity of the students.

Parent-Guardian Information Update--To keep you informed of events and activities at Bishop, you will periodically receive one sheet information updates. These updates will be sent home with all Bishop students.

Parents/Guardians Eating At School--Parents are invited and encouraged to have lunch with their student(s). Individuals wishing to eat at school with their child MUST order the lunch by 9:00 a.m. the day before you plan on eating at school. Please call the office at 271-3735 to make the appropriate arrangements. PAYMENT FOR ADULT LUNCHES WILL BE RECEIVED IN THE BISHOP OFFICE. After payment is received, an adult lunch ticket will be issued to be collected as the individual passes the scanner in the lunch line.

Parent-Teacher Conferences--Classes are dismissed at the end of the first nine week quarter and the third nine week quarter for Parent-Teacher conferences. Conferences are scheduled by the teachers and the office. You are encouraged to regularly communicate with your child’s teachers and the school. A conference can be scheduled at any time to discuss student progress or concerns.

Parent-Teacher Organization--All parents and guardians of any student who attends Bishop Elementary School automatically becomes a member of PTO. Bishop PTO officially meets on a monthly basis at the school. Parents/guardians are involved in multiple projects to support the school and the educational process ranging from annual clothing drive and candy sales, ice cream social, to the school carnival, and other social and fund raising events.

Party Planning--
Maximum Party Cost Reimbursement by Bishop PTO per Student

  • Halloween--$1.00
  • Winter--$2.00
  • Valentines Day--$1.00

Example: If there were 19 students in a class for Halloween, the maximum amount reimbursed by Bishop PTO would be $19.00

You can supplement all parties with donated items. To be reimbursed, submit receipts to the Bishop Treasurer. Examples of Donations from Parents include:

  • Craft items
  • Treat bags
  • Cookies
  • Punch
  • Candy
  • Small toys

Steps for a Successful Party

  • Verify party date(s)
  • Verify party start time(s)
  • Verify length of the party; end time(s). A party should last no longer than 1 hour.
  • Find 2 or 3 volunteers to assist you
  • Discuss initial plans with the classroom teacher
  • Finalize party plans
    • Activities
    • Crafts
    • Games
    • Treats
    • Food
      • Try to limit the amount of sugar
      • Verify food allergies with the teacher
      • One cookie per student, for example, is adequate
    • Drink - Discuss amounts and/or drink options with the teacher. Any soda used must be a Pepsi product.

On the day of the party:

  1. Prepare as much in advance as possible, Treat bags, Craft project materials, Game preparation
  2. Arrive 10 minutes early to set up
  3. Have fun!

Party Tips--For most students, the games at a party are the most important aspect. Primary teachers have game suggestions that they would be willing to share with party leaders. Teacher approval for all party games is requested. If a student art project is part of the party plans, projects that require painting or time for glue to dry should be avoided. Communication between the party coordinator, party planners, and the teacher is essential.

Payment of Textbook Fees--Please remember to pay your textbook rental fee and party fees during enrollment. If necessary, a fee payment schedule can be established.

Pedestrian and Bike Safety--Students are asked to only cross streets at corners or marked crosswalks when coming and going to and from school. DO NOT allow your student to walk between parked vehicles or down the middle of the street. Challenge your son/daughter to BE SAFE EVERY DAY!

Pets Visit School--If or when you decide to share your pet with your classmates at school for Show and Tell or some other reason, you are asked to make sure that your pet is safe from students and classmates are safe from your pet. Visiting dogs, for example, should be wearing a collar and be on a leash. All visiting pets should be shared by having a family member bring, share, care, and take home the pet. The Bishop student cannot be responsible for the pets care during the school day.

Photographs--Purchase of school pictures is voluntary. During the fall semester, an individual photograph will be taken. During the spring semester, a class group picture or class composite will be available for purchase.

Progress Reports or Grade Cards to be Distributed Quarterly--After each nine week period, parents/guardians will receive an individual student progress report or grade card documenting comprehensive progress and growth made at school.

At the end of the school year, if enrollment fees, lost or damaged textbooks, library books, or food accounts are not returned to school, paid in full and/or compensation has not been made for the loss, damage, or non payment, form number 8225-10 will be completed and filed in the student cumulative record folder. Records containing this form will not be forwarded to another school district until payment is made.

Project Topeka--In February, a community wide effort to gather food for the needy is held. Bishop Elementary School participates in this event. Each student is asked to voluntarily bring a canned good to be donated to the campaign.

Quality Performance Accreditation (QPA)--A process cycle of state accreditation focusing on building level school improvement planning and implementation.

Requirements for School Entry--All students must be age 5 on or before August 31. Proof of age (Birth Certificate), complete up to date immunization records, and a health physical must be on file in the school office. Students that do not meet the above requirements will not allowed to attend classes.

Resolving Conflicts--Student use of appropriate conflict resolution skills will be promoted to help students solves problems non-violently and non-physically.

Restroom Use--Periodic restroom breaks are built in to each teachers schedule. However, there are times when students may need to use the facilities beyond the scheduled time. All students have to do is ask. In most cases, the student will be granted permission to go to the restroom unless the teacher is in the middle of an important lesson or giving instructions, for examples. In those instances, the teacher might have the student wait until finished. In most instances, teachers will allow students to use the restroom facilities as needed with permission. In addition, students will be allowed to come in to the building to use the restroom when on recess. The student should ask an adult on playground duty for permission so that the playground teacher knows who is in the building and when.

Retention--The practice of retention is not supported by educational research and has not proved to be generally successful for students in the long run. Before retention is considered or recommended at Bishop, other options of student support will be explored. Topeka Public Schools generally promotes students opting to implement intervention and/or remediation strategies as an alternative to retention in most cases. However, the final decision concerning retention lies with the building principal.

Safety Alert--There has been concern that children who wear jackets with strings attached could catch the strings on the bus rails when the exit the bus. With the help of the Kansas Highway Patrol, all bus handrails have been modified to eliminate this problem. But you should be aware that the strings can get caught on playground equipment, too. It is recommended that the strings be cut off or tied so they will not catch on equipment.

School Information is Available--Go on the web. Topeka Public Schools address is http://www.topeka.k12.ks.us/

Science Fair--The Bishop staff and students may be hosting a science fair periodically. All Bishop students will have the opportunity to develop and display a project for display. Specific guidelines will be made available when the fair is announced so that there is some consistency among project expectations. Plan now to support your student(s) by participating. When the focus of the project will be on student work, your help and assistance will be greatly appreciated. The Science Fair is one more opportunity for you and your student to become directly involved in one of the happenings at Bishop.

Scoliosis Screening--The school nurse will complete Scoliosis screening on Level 4 and Level 5 students where applicable.

Security To Assist With Students--If a student refuses to cooperate with the teacher, staff, and principal, when asked to come to the office, for example, or demonstrates out of control behavior, school district security officers may be called to assist with the situation.

Sexual Harassment--Bishop Elementary School strives to maintain a safe and friendly school environment; one that promotes learning. Topeka Public Schools have policies and procedures for addressing Sexual Harassment. The issue is discussed with students at Bishop at all levels of instruction; kindergarten through level 5. For more information, please contact the school counselor.

Signing In and Signing Out through the Office is Requested--If your child is late arriving in the morning, please sign your student in through the school office. Likewise, when a student must leave early from school, you should come to the school office and sign him/her out. This is another procedure that will help ensure that students are accounted for and safe!

Skating Parties--Throughout the school year, Bishop PTO sponsors skating parties at Starlight West Skate Center, 8th and Fairlawn, Topeka. The parties are held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. There is a cost per skater. Specific dates and grade levels for the upcoming parties will be announced at a later date.

Smoking is Prohibited at Bishop--By state law, smoking is prohibited at Bishop Elementary School and on the school premises.

Spirit and Pride Events and Activities--Periodically, the Spirit and Pride team sponsors an event or activity. Spirit and pride gives Bishop students an opportunity to have input about some of the happenings at their school. Every Friday has been designated Bishop tee shirt, sweatshirt, and jacket day and/or Green and White (school colors) day. Students and staff are encouraged to wear clothing that promotes school spirit and pride. Special Spirit and Pride days are scheduled periodically.

Spirit and Pride Items for Sale--Vehicle bumper stickers with the saying Proud Parent of a Bishop Child are available for sale. A variety of miscellaneous items including Bishop green and white stuffed bulldogs, tee shirts, sweat shirts, jackets, etc. may be available for purchase through the Bishop Parent Teacher Organization.

Student Planners--Most Topeka Public Schools middle and high schools require students to carry planners with them at all times. To help prepare Bishop students for meeting this requirement, Bishop Elementary School asks parents of Level I through Level 5 students to purchase a specifically selected planner when the student enrolls. A different planner is used in Levels 1 and 2 than is used in Levels 3, 4, and 5. Planners are beneficial for keeping home and school communication continually flowing. Parents may be asked to sign their childs planner nightly. Your cooperation and support in this matter is most important.

Student Supplies--Teachers may have individual requests for student supplies. You will want to wait until final classroom assignments have been completed, group Parent-Teacher conferences have been held, and/or the first day of school before purchasing school supplies. Specific lists for certain grade levels or classrooms may be available.

Talent Show is Held During the Last Week of the School Year--Intermediate students participate in an annual talent show. This show is presented during the last week of the school year. Tryouts are completed. Categories of talent include: singing, instrumental, dance, etc.

Telephone Use by Students--A students teacher must issue a telephone pass (permission) before a student will be allowed to use the school telephone. Since the telephones are to be used for conducting school business, any after school or personal student arrangements need to be completed at home rather than at school.

Tardies--It is most important that students arrive to school on time. Numerous opportunities for organizing, planning, and learning are missed when students arrive late. Strive to be ON TIME. Classes begin at 8:30 a.m. Tardiness will be recorded by the classroom teachers and are recorded in the office on a daily basis. When tardies are recorded, parents/guardians will receive a written notice of the schools concern. When 5 tardies are recorded, another written reminder will be sent to parents and guardians. This letter will indicate that SRS will be notified if the tardies do not stop. On the 10th recorded tardy, Social Rehabilitation Services (SRS) will be contacted. A referral will be filed indicating a that a child may be in need of care. Parents are responsible for keeping tardies to a minimum.

BISHOP HAS BEEN DIRECTED BY THE ADMINISTRATION CENTER TO CONTINUE TO TAKE STEPS TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF STUDENT TARDIES. AS A RESULT, STUDENTS WHO RECORD MORE THAN 5 TARDIES DURING A QUARTER WILL MAKE UP THE MISSED INSTRUCTIONAL TIME DURING RECESS OR AFTER SCHOOL.

Time Out--Occasionally, students may need a time-out from their regular classroom to complete an assignment, complete a special assignment, or get their behavior under control, etc. Bishop teachers will be pairing up with another teacher in the building so that a designated place is available for time out use if needed. The student in time out may be there only a few minutes or until the specific tasks is completed. Teachers will be utilizing time out at their discretion. When time out is completed, the student returns to his/her regular classroom and schedule.

Transportation Questions?--All questions concerning district busing should be directed to the coordinator of student transportation, 295-3904.

Truant from School--Truancy is one of the first signs of trouble. Parents play a fundamental role in the education of their children. Being in school on a regular basis is one of the major keys to school success. For families and schools to work together to solve problems, like truancy, there must be mutual trust and communication.

Bishop Elementary School has a zero tolerance for truancy. Parents assume responsibility for truant behavior.

The law requires police agencies to pick up and return to school young people that appear to be truant from school if they see students out and about the community without an adult during school hours.

Updating Student Information--Any time there is a change in telephone numbers for child care, emergency contact, or other personal information, please contact the school so that records can be updated. Accuracy of personal information leads to safer students.

VIP Memberships Available--Senior citizens can attend high school events and activities free in the Topeka Public Schools as a member of the districts VIP (Very Important Person) Club. District residents who are at least 65 years of age are eligible for lifetime complimentary passes. Memberships will be issued to those living outside the district if they have grandchildren attending USD 50l middle or senior high schools. Anyone interested in obtaining this complimentary pass should present proof of age and request a VIP membership at the Topeka Public Schools Administrative Center, 624 SW 24th Street; Highland Park High School, 2420 SE California Ave.; Topeka High School, 800 SW 10th; or Topeka West High School, 2001 Fairlawn.

WEAPONS (real, look alike, and/or toy) are NOT ALLOWED on School Property--Topeka Public Schools are to be drug free and weapon free. There is a zero tolerance policy weapons on any school property or at any school supervised activity. PLEASE REVIEW THIS POLICY WITH YOUR STUDENT (S). A weapon, as defined by Board of Education policy, is defined as any device, object, or substance that, in fact, or under the circumstances and manner in which it is used, can reasonably be considered to cause serious property damage or cause serious bodily harm. Real, look alike, and/or toy weapons are treated the same according to district policy. Any incident involving a weapon or look alike can potentially result in a long term suspension of 186 school days or one calendar year.

Winter Weather--Winter weather brings with it the concern about whether or not schools will be closed. The local radio and television stations are the best and the fastest source of information should inclement weather and bad street conditions signal possible school closing. The decision to close schools is made as early as possible-preferably the night before-but not later than 6:30 a.m. on the morning of school. Once the decision is made, the news media is notified immediately. Do NOT call the schools or the radio and TV stations. The stations will announce the closings as soon as possible.

Vision Screening--Vision screening is conducted with students in Kindergarten, Level 1, Level 3, and Level 5 during the month of October. If a student fails the vision screening, parents/guardians will be contacted.

Visitor/Volunteer Check In Requested--To help ensure the safety of Bishop students and staff, all school visitors and volunteers are asked to register their presence by signing in at the school office upon arrival. A notebook on the front counter near the office is provided for this purpose. ALL VISITORS AND/OR VOLUNTEERS WILL BE ASKED TO WEAR AN IDENTIFICATION BADGE while they are in the building.

Vocal Music Programs and Performances--At least once during the school year, every student at Bishop will have the opportunity to be involved in a vocal music production.

Volunteers Wanted--Parents/Guardians are invited and encouraged to volunteer at school. There are many jobs that volunteers can do to enhance the educational process. Bishop PTO has a volunteer coordinator. To see how you can routinely volunteer time at Bishop, contact the school office at 438-4390. ALL VOLUNTEERS AT BISHOP ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A TB SKIN TEST before they can have regular contact with students. The required skin tests are given FREE OF CHARGE through the Topeka-Shawnee County Health Department, 1615 SW 8th Street, Topeka, Kansas. Call for specific times and to make arrangements

Vote at Bishop--Bishop Elementary School is an official voting place for Ward 29, Precinct 06. You may also register to vote at Bishop Elementary School. The forms that need to be completed are available through the school office.