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Contents:
Mission StatementSalmonberry School nurtures the intellectual and imaginative capabilities of each child. We provide an academically and experientially rich environment in which confidence, compassion, and responsibility are strengthened through cooperative community learning. PhilosophySalmonberry School teaches the whole child. We believe that children learn best at their own pace. We provide students with the freedom, the opportunities, and the tools to discover and pursue their passions. Our curriculum is rich in language, literature, science, craft and the arts. We integrate strong academics with active learning to bring integrated thematic units to life. This challenges and inspires students to develop as creative thinkers and doers. Our school community is based on mutual support and respect among students, teachers, and families. At Salmonberry, children thrive in an environment of cooperation and camaraderie. They develop self-respect and appreciation for the different perspectives of others. Community service projects, a strong multi-cultural focus, and deep involvement with nature's rhythms are central to our program. Through these experiences, students become informed, socially and environmentally responsible citizens. Core Beliefs, Guiding Principles and Essential PracticesChildren are inherently curious, full of wonder, and eager to learn. Therefore, Salmonberry strives to facilitate and encourage these qualities, and fosters independence, self-confidence and curiosity. Leading by action or example is usually the most effective way to teach children. Children are active participants in learning. We strive to make activities meaningful, relevant and authentic, without "busy work." Whole children are beings of mind, body, heart, and spirit. The Salmonberry program addresses, integrates and respects all of these aspects of each child. Each child is unique in his or her developmental level, learning style, multiple intelligences, interests, etc. Each child learns at his/her own pace, in his/her own style. Salmonberry is a place of peace, calm and safety. Our only class rules are be kind and be safe. We emphasize kindness, respect, nurturing, taking care, noticing, being thoughtful, and communication. Rules are clear, fair and equitably enforced. Behavioral expectations are very clear. Aesthetics are important. We use natural materials, textures and colors as much as possible. The environment is free from commercial images, stereotypical images, jarring colors, etc. Children are capable of creating beautiful, vibrant works, which are often displayed and celebrated. Rhythms, routines and rituals help to create a sense of predictability, safety and comfort. These routines are always flexible and responsive to the children. Each day has a breathing rhythm, which includes whole group, small group, individual tasks and quiet time. There is a balance between activity and stillness, teacher directed activities, independent exploration, and shared cooperative tasks. We acknowledge, study and celebrate the rhythm of the seasons, the weather, and holidays. Children are part of many communities -- family, class, school, town, island, nation, world, etc. At Salmonberry, they learn to respect and interact with one another. They learn to work out their differences with each other and with adults. They learn to be socially responsible members of their communities. Our curriculum and program reinforces children's interconnectedness and interrelatedness among themselves, natural and human communities. We emphasize cooperation and de-emphasize competition. Parents are always welcome to visit and are valued as helpers, supporters and providers of insight into strategies that are effective with their children. Teachers are facilitators, observers, and supporters. Salmonberry Preschool ProgramYoung children learn mostly through playing, doing and imitating. The preschool school day includes lots of active, imaginative play and movement. We avoid a strong focus on "academics" because preschool age children are here to play and do. The Preschool program regularly includes the following activities:
Salmonberry Elementary ProgramThematic Approach Salmonberry elementary uses and integrated, thematic approach to shape our studies each quarter. Topics have included energy, the Middle Ages, and the Middle East. Thematic topics often emerge from students interests and experiences. Each unit of study integrates many disciplines, include language arts, mathematical investigations, science, movement, dance, sport and games, art, cooking and other crafts. Guest instructors lend their expertise to our studies. Frequent local and off-island field trips enhance learning and reinforce the idea that authentic learning does not happen only within the classroom under the direction of the teacher. Basic Skills We believe that students must possess basic academic skills, learn to be excellent readers and writers, and be proficient mathematical thinkers and problem solvers. Students work individually or in small groups as they learn and practice discrete skills and gain knowledge. Skills lessons are thematically integrated whenever possible. We emphasize a constructivist approach in math and a whole language approach in language arts. Kindergarten and the Primary Classroom Kindergarteners attend school from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., four days a week. They are no less integral to the classroom community for their limited hours of enrollment. Our belief is that kindergarten can be a critical time of grounding and growth for children. We offer exposure to academic concepts and content areas, but do not expect proficiency. Our goal is not necessarily to graduate all kindergarteners as fluent readers, but as eager participants in the process of learning, and as confident community members. The hours each week without the kindergarteners allows the first and second grade students to have some special time to extend their studies in a more intimate and focused setting. This will often be a time to work on practicing skills as well as working on a deeper exploration of the theme through project work. Assessment Teachers maintain very high expectations for all students in all areas. Students are challenged to do their best. This is reflected in behavioral expectations, social awareness, and working for academic excellence. On a regular basis, teachers give students and parents feedback regarding children's progress. Parents receive narrative progress summaries twice a year. Progress is further documented by collections of work samples and portfolios. Teachers and students work hard together to identify key elements in the learning process and value each step and approximation towards an excellent final product. Elementary Graduation As a family anticipates separation from Salmonberry, either through graduation or for individual reasons, the parents are strongly encouraged to enter into a dialogue with the teacher regarding the student's future education. The teacher will work with the family to articulate and pursue specific goals to ensure readiness for subsequent placement. A Salmonberry graduate should be extremely well prepared for public, private, or home school. He or she will have strong skills, self-knowledge, social awareness, a sense of genuine caring, and a strong capacity to see connections, understand meaning, and pursue passions. A Typical Day at Salmonberry Elementary (9:00 - 3:00) 9:00 Arrival: Informal visiting and exploration 9:20 Welcome: Songs, stories, overview of the day, circle time 9:45 Work time: Choice, teacher-designed project, math groups 10:30 Outside time: Run, play, construct, try new or familiar physical activities 11:00 Work time: Language arts, reading, writing projects, journaling, drama 12:00 Students eat lunch in a multi-age group 12:30 Outside time: Renew energy for the afternoon work 1:15 Thematically integrated projects, crafts, Spanish, music 2:45 Clean up 3:00 Dismissal Each day includes a balance of quiet activities and more boisterous gross motor experiences. Classroom time includes student choice activities and those that are teacher led. Students engage in individual, small group and whole group work. Other Aspects of the ProgramA Unified Student Body We make every effort to integrate the elementary and preschool programs into a unified Salmonberry community. Typically, preschool children and elementary children have shared time outside twice each day. In addition, specialist instructors teach lessons to the entire community in a cooperative, multi-age setting when appropriate. Teachers in all of the classrooms plan together to insure that specific classroom processes as well as broad vision setting is consistent. We are developing a mentoring program whereby older elementary students will spend time in the preschool classroom engaging in cross-age peer tutoring and modeling. Teachers also regularly plan specific activities to allow all students to be integrated regardless of their age and placement. Toddler Program At times, Salmonberry offers a program for children aged 1-3 years old, accompanied by a parent. When offered, this program is from 10:00-11:30 every Friday in the preschool building and is funded by donations from attending families. The program includes songs and finger plays, stories, puppets and dramatic play, outside play, inside work with art materials, and snacks -- homemade bread or muffins are provided. Please call the school to find out about the current opportunities for toddlers and parents. A Parent Study Group We encourage enrolled parents as well as parents from the community at large to discuss parenting issues and child development. From time to time, the school hosts a series of discussion sessions. Through regular attendance and punctuality,
children establish a rhythm which enhances their own sense of security and
fosters greater cohesiveness within the school community.
Further, through their attendance practices, parents communicate to their
children a respect for the school and its practices.
It is important for children to attend school regularly and arrive on
time each day. In case of absence,
parents should call the school and leave a message for the teacher. If a parent finds it necessary to bring children late to school, the parent should notify the child's teacher. The parent and child should be extremely sensitive to the environment they are entering and the activities which are in progress. Specifically, morning circle is a special time that establishes a tone for the day. Parents should make an effort not to interrupt this gathering. The Salmonberry curriculum includes study of world religious beliefs and practices, as part of our social studies program. This may include making and eating special foods, doing crafts, playing games and other activities. The school does not foster or endorse any particular religious tradition. Children whose families observe religious holidays should notify their children's teacher in advance about days off and any special needs. The school will make reasonable accommodations. School DemeanorAt Salmonberry we strive to create a
physically safe and emotionally secure environment in which all children may
flourish and feel comfortable. All
children need to feel welcome, honored, and able to take risks within a
supportive atmosphere. Maintaining
such an atmosphere is critical to our Mission.
Any childĖs behavior which limits another childĖs feelings of
security is not acceptable. If an individual studentĖs behavior
seriously disrupts or threatens this environment, either through a continual
pattern of Ïlow levelÓ negative behaviors or through isolated serious
incidents, significant steps may needed to be taken to minimize the disruption
and honor the needs of the whole group. Ultimately a childĖs continued enrollment
will be at the sole discretion of the Heads of School.
A parent who wishes to appeal a dismissal from school may do so by
arranging a meeting with the Board of Trustees at which the teacher and Head of
child's school will outline attempted modifications and discuss their effectiveness.
The parent may request further or alternative modifications.
However, the Board will not overturn the decision of the Head of School
unless it is shown that he has acted in a biased or unprofessional manner during
the dismissal process. Children should not bring toys or other items
from home to school with the exception of items brought specifically for
donation or for Sharing. The teacher
will direct students in the appropriate use and storage of Shared items.
Children are encouraged to bring made or
found objects, artwork, or verbal accounts of experiences to share.
Toys or items exhibiting commercial television or movie images are
strongly discouraged. The community
at Enrollment & Tuition Information 2006-2007Monthly/Yearly Tuition Preschool and Kindergarten (ages 3-5/6): 4 days/week 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. $330.00/$3960.00 Elementary (grades 1-6): 5 days/week 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. $570.00/$6840.00 Future Programs For the 2006/2007 school year, we will offer a full preschool and elementary program through sixth grade. We are exploring the creation of a middle school in the future. Tuition The first of twelve tuition payments, plus the materials fee, is due on or before the start of school in September. Monthly tuition payments are due thenceforth on or before the first of each month. If you know that you will have difficulty making a tuition payment, please contact the Head of School as soon as possible to discuss options. Should a payment be more than five days late without prior arrangements, a $5 late fee is assessed for each delinquent week. If payment is not made by the end of the quarterly term in which it is due, the student may not attend the next term until the discrepancy is resolved. Should a check be returned for insufficient funds, a $30 fee is charged. Tuition payments are due regardless of attendance, school closures, or holidays. *Annual tuition is divided into twelve equal monthly installments, from September through August. Therefore, parents are responsible for tuition over holiday breaks and in August when school is not in session. If parents prefer, tuition may be paid in advance of such breaks. Materials/Program Fee There is a $250.00 fee for each student in the preschool, $375.00 for elementary students for instructional materials and special programs throughout the academic year. This fee is due on or before the start of school in September. If necessary, families may arrange to pay the fee in installments. If a deposit has been paid to secure enrollment, it may be applied to the materials fee at the start of school. Tuition
Assistance Salmonberry School's goal is to include all children who are likely to benefit from our programs regardless of ability to pay. We offer a limited program of tuition assistance. Tuition assistance decisions are based primarily upon a family's resources. In addition, the school may take into account non-monetary contributions the family makes to the school. Interested families should contact the Head of their child's school or Board treasurer for a tuition assistance application. Tuition assistance is usually awarded before school starts in the fall, but may be reviewed quarterly upon request. If a family has more than one child attending Salmonberry, the family receives a 10% discount off the tuition of each additional child. The full materials fee is due for each child, however. Admissions decisions are made without regard to a student's need for tuition assistance. Enrollment Procedure The following outlines the procedure to enroll a child at Salmonberry School. Adjustments and modifications to these procedures may be made at the discretion of the Head of School as warranted by specific circumstances. 1. Call the school administrator, Lynn White, at 376-6310 (elementary) or 376-4310 (preschool) to request information. The administrator will provide general information about the school and classroom programs. 2. A school tour and visit to the classroom will be arranged. A visit to the school allows parents to see the facilities firsthand and to freely dialogue with the teacher. The teacher will give the parent an enrollment application form and a Parent Handbook. Paul Freedman, the Head of Elementary School, and Ethna Flanagan, the Head of Preschool, will be available at any stage of inquiry to discuss the school philosophy and classroom programs in detail. 3. The teacher and parent may meet again or telephone to ask further questions or provide additional information. 4. Complete the application for enrollment and return it to school. 5. The Head of School and classroom teacher will make a decision regarding the child's enrollment. Factors affecting enrollment decisions may include availability of space, demographics of the classroom, and Salmonberry's ability to meet the child's needs adequately. Ultimately, a child's enrollment will be at the discretion of the Head of School. 6. The Head of School will notify the parents of the enrollment decision within an agreed upon time. A meeting will be scheduled with teacher and parent. At this meeting the parents will be given an enrollment agreement and will be introduced to the school's procedures and the Parent Handbook. Parents will also receive other necessary forms to complete prior to enrollment (immunization records, emergency contact form, etc.) Parents will have many opportunities to ask questions and gather information about their child's attendance. 7. Parents submit the completed enrollment agreement, all other necessary forms, and a deposit to reserve placement. Payment for the materials fee and first month's tuition is due prior to the first day of class. All forms must be completed and the first tuition installment must be paid before a child may attend class. 8. The child is enrolled. Each student who is enrolled will undergo a one-month period of evaluation, after which the school will make a decision regarding the child's permanent acceptance. Non-Discriminatory
Policy Salmonberry School admits students of any race, color, religion and national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender orientation, or national and ethnic origin in administration or education policies, admission policies, employment policies, or other school administered programs. To the extent that our resources permit, a student's ability to pay will not affect his or her acceptance into the program. Withdrawal
Policy Salmonberry makes staffing and program commitments based on the number of students enrolled. Therefore, withdrawal of a student mid-year has a dramatic effect on the school's ability to plan. A family wishing to withdraw a student during the school year must provide the school with at least 30 days written notice before the date of withdrawal. Tuition installments and other charges due and payable to the school through the 30-day period or through the end of the current quarter, whichever is longer. In the event of withdrawal at the request of the school, the 30-day period of notification is waived and any remaining tuition will be refunded to the family. In no event shall the school refund tuition for students who withdraw or are separated during the last quarter of the school year. If parents decide to take their child out of school for part of the school year, tuition payments must be made in order to reserve the child's place in school. If the family does not wish to make tuition payments during the time they are gone, they need to follow the school's procedures for withdrawal and reapplication. Salmonberry cannot hold a child's place in class without a financial commitment. The Salmonberry Community
Financial Structure Salmonberry School is a private, non-profit, independent educational institution, granted 503(c)(3) tax-exempt status by the IRS. The Board of Trustees determines the policies and the financial decisions affecting the economic health and viability of the school. The Board actively seeks and consults with the Heads of School, Faculty, Staff, and Parents in making decisions. The financial records of our parents are confidential. The general financial statements of the school are available from the Board Treasurer. The
Board of Trustees is legally
responsible for the school. The
Board consists of a President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and
at-large members. The trustees are
elected annually by the parent body. The
Board is responsible for the financial well-being of the school, including the
budget. The Board meets monthly on
the second Monday of each month. Minutes
of these meetings, as well as the by-laws under which the board operates, are
available with the Board Chairperson. The
essential responsibilities of the Board include: 1.
Articulating and supporting the
schoolĖs Mission and Statement of Philosophy 2.
Assuring the financial viability
of sustainability of the school. 3.
Setting long-term vision and
conducting strategic planning for the schoolĖs future. 4.
Hiring, evaluating, and
supporting the Head of School The
Heads of School,
one for preschool and one for elementary,
are ultimately
responsible for the day-to-day running of the school.
They set most school policy (with the exception of concerns of such an
essential nature that they rise to the Board level).
They hire, support, and evaluate all staff Ō always in conjunction
with a selected team, including at least one Board member.
They make decisions regarding enrollment (acceptance and dismissal), again
with the support of the Board and staff.
They serve as the coordinators and supervisors of all Salmonberry programs. The
Teachers are responsible for
planning and implementing school curriculum and activities, and for all aspects
of the day-to-day running of the classrooms.
The teacher will ensure the safety and well-being of the children under
his/her supervision. He/she will
communicate with the parents at regularly scheduled conferences and informally
throughout the year to update them regarding their childĖs progress.
He/she will provide a written narrative of each childĖs progress at
least twice a year and maintain a work portfolio at school.
The teacher will keep and maintain all academic records at school. The Parent Body Group is an advisory group consisting of the parents or legal guardian of each child attending the school. Parents are welcome to join their children in the classroom, at the discretion of the teachers. Parents are entitled to meet with their children during the school day at any time, in a private setting if requested. Salmonberry depends heavily
on the interest and active participation of families.
Each family is expected to have at least one member attend each parent
meeting.
Parents may also assist the teacher in the classroom or help with any
jobs articulated by teachers and/or Heads. There
are always many ways to help out, including serving on school committees. Salmonberry families are also expected
to donate an average of ten hours of volunteer time per quarter, or forty hours
each school year. This expectation is adjusted for part time students (5
hours per quarter for 2 day/week children, 7.5 hours per quarter for 3 day/week
children.) The Head of School is open to discussing options for families
having difficulty meeting this expectation. Communication The faculty at The Health and Safety
Medical Releases All families
should have an Emergency Contact form, and Immunization Record, and a Medical
Release form on file at the school for each child. Medication Policy The staff at Accidents When an accident
occurs, the school staff will assess the injury and take appropriate action.
In the event of serious injury, the parents will be contacted.
The parents can make the medical arrangements and transport the child.
In an emergency, 911 will be called. Illness Children who are
ill may not come to school. Please
keep children at home who exhibit any of the following symptoms: fever, rash,
diarrhea, head lice, pink eye, vomiting, or nose, eye, or ear discharge.
If a child becomes ill while at school, the parent or emergency contact
person will be notified and must pick up the child as soon as possible. Child Abuse Reporting Policy Families should be aware that staff at
Salmonberry School is required to immediately report to Child Protective
Services any suspicion of child abuse or neglect. Food and Nutrition We request that all food parents send to
school be nutritious. Each family is
responsible for providing a lunch for their child.
Salmonberry, with parent volunteer help, provides snacks which are
vegetarian and free of refined sugar. Whenever
possible, we include whole foods and organic ingredients.
If your child has any special dietary needs, please let your classroom
teacher know. Prohibited Substances Smoking and the use of illegal substances are not allowed on school grounds when children are present. This includes during work parties , field trips and other official school functions. Alcoholic beverages are strictly forbidden from the site during school hours. Clothing Children should be sent to school in
clothing which is appropriate for the weather and allows them to move
comfortably and safely. The children
will be spending a significant amount of time outside regardless of the weather.
Parents should provide clothing that will keep their child warm and dry.
Each child should come to school in shoes or boots which are appropriate
for the weather and can be easily taken on and off by the child.
In addition, each child should keep at school a pair of inside shoes or
slippers. Parents should also keep at school a
complete change of clothing for their child, including socks and underwear, in a
clearly labeled box or bag. Parents
should check the boxes regularly for items which have been used and replace them
as necessary. In keeping with the Cubbies Each child will have their own cubby space
to keep extra clothes, artwork, teacher notes, items for Sharing, etc.
Please empty the contents after each day. School Animals We feel that having an opportunity to observe and help care for animals is an important part of each child's growth. At this time, the school has chickens in the chicken coop. Under close adult supervision, children help feed the chickens and gather eggs, which they then use in cooking projects. We do everything that we can to keep the chickens healthy and clean, and to take care of their coop. However, there is a small risk that the birds or their environment harbor bacterial or fungal illnesses, mites and parasites; chicken feed may also attract other animals. Chicken feathers or dander may be an allergen for some people. We are monitoring the avian flu situation and will take steps necessary to protect our birds and, more importantly, our students. There is a very small chance that a child might be pecked when interacting with the birds. Anyone who has come close to the birds must wash his or her hands afterwards. Parents who do not wish their child to interact with the chickens may discuss this with their child's teacher. Field trips are an important part of the Release Information Upon enrollment, all parents should
complete a Release Form listing all the individuals who have permission to pick
up their child from school. This
form should be updated throughout the year as necessary to insure its accuracy. Photo Release We will ask each family to sign a photo release, giving the school permission to use photographs or other images of students in school promotional materials. If a family is opposed to having their child's image used in any way, they should notify the appropriate Head of School. Emergency Preparedness The school is devising a disaster preparedness plan, which will be made available to all parents. As requested by the state, we conduct regular fire drills. Salmonberry Elementary and Preschool Academic Calendar 2005-2006FALL QUARTER September 5 - November 10 (47 days) No school days: Conference Days (9/21 & 9/22) BREAK: November 13 - November 24 (includes Thanksgiving) WINTER QUARTER November 27 - February 9 (43 days) No school days: Christmas and New Years Break (12/18 - 1/1), MLK Day (1/15) BREAK: February 12 - March 2 SPRING QUARTER March 5 - May 11 (48 days) No school days: Conference Day (3/22 & 3/23) BREAK: May 14 - June 1 SUMMER QUARTER June 4 - August 1 No school days: Independence Day (7/4) 11:00 am start July 5 BREAK: August 2 - September 3
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