Trinity Lutheran School Student/Parent Handbook 2024-2025
Revised and Approved by School Board 7/3/24
Pastor Brett Jones Telephone Church: 618-495-2545
Mrs. Beth Boester, Principal Telephone school: 618-495-2246
8701 Huey Road Fax School: 618-495-2692
P.O. Box 200 bboester@trinityhoffman.org
Hoffman, Illinois 62250 www.trinityhoffman.org
Mission Statement:
We will prepare our students to be responsible members of the Christian community, strong in faith, and equipped with the knowledge and skill, to live as powerful, forgiven witnesses of Christ and His love.
Vision Statement:
We will provide our students with educational experiences designed to enhance learning which will enable them to become successful, life-long learners, equipped for service to God and others.
Core Values: Faith ~ Education ~ Service
Theme for 2024– 2025:
For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:5
Trinity Lutheran School was organized in 1875 as an educational institution of Trinity Lutheran Church, Hoffman, Illinois. The congregation is committed to the most important task of providing a Christian education for the children of the parish and the community. They have had through these many years and still have a keen sense of what is meant in the Lord’s admonition in Colossians 3:21 “Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”
Philosophy and Core Values
We believe that God the Father is the Creator of all people and the Source of all gifts. As created beings we glorify God through the gifts He has given us. We believe that Christ died for the sins of all people so that by faith in Him we are His loved and forgiven children. We believe the Holy Spirit through the Gospel brings us to faith in Christ and thereby empowers us to serve our neighbors. We believe that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God. Through the teaching and hearing of His Word, both the law and the gospel of Christ are brought into our lives. This enables us to daily grow in faith.
We believe that education must include opportunities to teach the Word of God and share the Gospel so that individuals will recognize their lives and gifts as coming from God. We believe that our role is to assist parents in the education of their children. Through this education, the children will be motivated to use their lives to the glory of God and the benefit of others.
It is the purpose of Lutheran education to develop students’ God-given abilities. Lutheran education does not only develop potential, but assists students in finding their place, meaning, purpose, and responsibilities as children of God. Children will learn that they are loved and cherished not only by the Christian community, but unconditionally by Jesus Christ.
We serve the community by providing a quality education, enhanced by God’s Word, in an environment that is conducive to the development of Christian values. This school is a highly valued mission arm of Trinity Lutheran Church. As such we are dedicated to making our Lutheran school an avenue for gaining disciples as well as for nurturing those who are already His. The faculty sees their work as a ministry to our children and their families and is committed to serving them as they serve the Lord.
We see Trinity Lutheran School not as a replacement but as a positive alternative to public school education. In our school we strive to meet the intellectual, physical, and spiritual needs of our students through a varied curriculum and spiritual nurturing. It is our desire to send our students out into the world as productive members of the Christian community, strong in faith, and equipped with the knowledge, skills, and desires to live as powerful witnesses of God and his love.
Staff and Faculty at Trinity Lutheran Hoffman
Principal Mrs. Beth Boester
Confirmation Pastor Brett Jones
Office Mrs. Rita Tyberendt
Pre-School Mrs. Dena Brammeier
Kindergarten Mrs. Heather Childress
1st & 2nd Grade Mrs. Angela Redeker
3rd & 4th Grade Mrs. Sara Kuper
5th & 6th Grade Mrs. Cindy Spenner
7th & 8th Grade Mr. Matthew Fick
Technology Coordinator Mrs. Beth Boester
Athletic Director Mr. Dave Redeker
Cafeteria Ladies Mrs. Deb Albers, Mrs. Tina Boehne
Custodian
Board of Education
Wendy Jones - chairman Kerri Beal - Secretary
Edward Toon Sara Sizemore
Melodie Ainslie Ashley Bryant
Jennifer Gazda *Carlyle Representative
School Objectives
That the student may:
1. Learn to conduct his/her life as a child of God.
2. Receive a solid background in the teachings of the Lutheran Church as recorded in the Bible and summarized in the Lutheran confessions (See Article II of the Constitution of Trinity Lutheran Church, Hoffman).
3. Learn the academic tools necessary to develop his/her potential in all areas of the curriculum.
4. Develop a desire to increase his/her knowledge through further study and experiences.
5. Develop self-respect, good character, and pride in his/her work.
6. Develop proper health, safety, and nutritional habits.
7. Learn to respect and cooperate with all people regardless of race, religion, or social background.
8. Learn to be a responsible citizen through knowledge and understanding of government.
9. Develop an appreciation for the world he/she lives in as a gift of God and accept his/her responsibilities
to make the proper use of it.
The philosophy, purpose, and objectives of Trinity Lutheran School were developed and written by the faculty of the school. In-service meetings were held to accomplish this. These documents were presented to the Board of Education for review, discussion, and adoption. The handbook is approved annually by the Board of Christian Education. Policies which affect the operation of the school are suggested and developed by the faculty, the Board, and administration and approved by the Board of Christian Education. The Principal governs the enforcement of policy which is set by the Board of Christian Education. If you have questions regarding policy, please contact the principal to arrange a meeting for your concerns.
These policies follow.
A. ENROLLMENT AND ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
Trinity Lutheran School is primarily supported by members of Trinity Lutheran Church, Hoffman and therefore most of the students naturally come from member families. However, our school is open to all children of the community and they are enrolled and served by our school as space permits according to the following priority:
Members of Trinity, Hoffman
Non-members who already have a child enrolled at Trinity, Hoffman
Lutherans of other congregations
Non-Lutherans
We maintain our school not as a substitute for the public education available, but as an alternative, that includes the promotion of the Christian faith. Other requirements for enrollment follow the policies of the public school. Children must be five years old by September 1 to enter Kindergarten*, and six years old by September 1 to enter the first grade. Health Record forms are required as prescribed by the State Board of Education.
Any prescribed state requirement pertaining to the enrollment is met by our school and we commit ourselves to this now and in the future.
*Early Entrance to Kindergarten policy available upon request.
Transfer Student Policy - Transfer students are admitted to Trinity Lutheran School Hoffman pending the receipt of records from the student’s previous school and the necessary information for enrollment. Those records and information include:
Complete school records including transcripts must be received. Disciplinary records must be supplied upon request.
Copy of official birth certificate must be made available.
All health records including immunizations must be received from the previous school.
The forms must be mailed directly to Trinity Lutheran, Hoffman from the previous school and not delivered by the parent. A transfer student must have a completed health card on file within thirty (30) days of enrollment. A transfer from Trinity, Hoffman to another school must be completed within 10 days after the request form is received from the new school.
Tuition and School Fee Refund Policy
If a child withdraws from Trinity during the present school year, the following refund policy will go into effect:
1. There will be no refund of fees once school begins.
2. In regards to tuition student withdrawal:
a. When a student is withdrawn from school, any tuition that has been paid in advance of the current month will be refunded.
b. Current month’s tuition is not refundable.
3. In case of an expulsion, no school or tuition fees will be refunded.
4. In addition, anyone delinquent with paying tuition costs at the end of that current school year or one bounced check, the Board of Christian Education has the right to assess the situation and the parents may forfeit their children’s (child's) attendance to our school. Tuition payments will be evaluated at the end of each quarter.
Trinity Lutheran School admits students of any race, color, gender, disability, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, disability, gender, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
B. PRESCHOOL AT TRINITY LUTHERAN, HOFFMAN
The Trinity Lutheran Church at Hoffman accepts applications for the fall preschool through June 15. Applications received after June 15 will be evaluated on a space available basis. The Trinity Lutheran Preschool meets Monday through Friday from 8:15 - 11: 15 a.m.
If your child is 3 on or before September 1, your child can be enrolled and must be potty-trained. The enrollment is not limited to children of the Hoffman congregation.
The program is centered around Jesus' love for the children and how special they are as God's children. There will be Bible stories, alphabet, number, shapes, color recognition, art, and coordination activities.
The cost will be $150 per month. There is a yearly $50.00 registration fee to help cover the cost of materials and supplies. This fee should be paid at registration. If you have any questions, please contact the Preschool Teacher or the school office at 495-2246. Proof of immunization will be required.
C. ACADEMICS (Grading/Honor Roll, Promotion/Retention)
Grading/Honor Roll This policy describes the method used by the faculty to determine grades and honor roll.
The grading policy for grades 1-8 is as follows:
Percent earned
Grade
Point Value
Percent earned
Grade
Point Value
100
A+
12 pts.
81-82
C+
6 pts.
95-99
A
11 pts.
72 - 80
C
5 pts.
93-94
A-
10 pts.
70-71
C-
4 pts.
91-92
B+
9 pts.
68-69
D+
3 pts.
85-90
B
8 pts.
62-67
D
2 pts.
83-84
B
7 pts.
60-61
D-
1 pt.
Students in grades 5 - 8 are eligible for the quarterly Honor Roll. All subjects will be incorporated into honor roll calculations. To qualify for the Honor Roll, a student must have a grade point average of B+(9.0) or more. To qualify for the High Honor Roll, a student must have a grade point average of A- (10.0) or better.
Church attendance will be included in the religion grade.
Midterm notification of grades will be sent home by teachers in grades 1-8. These reports are intended to provide each student with the knowledge of his/her academic progress up to that time. The report is so designed that the teacher may include comments regarding student performance.
1st and 3rd Quarter Report cards will be distributed at Parent-Teacher Conferences. 2nd and 4th Quarter Report Cards will be mailed home to parents. Iowa Test of Basic Skills Reports will be available at the end of the school year once received.
Promotion/Retention Policy
This policy establishes guidelines for retaining students. Retention is a serious matter which must be done only after very careful study by school personnel and parents. Each student must be carefully reviewed and each retention must be decided upon its own merits.
Guidelines:
1. The success of the child is our primary goal. Pre-Kindergarten testing is done for all potential Kindergarten students each spring for the following academic year. Strengths and weaknesses of the student are identified to make parents aware of their children's abilities. The staff of Trinity Lutheran School will meet with parents whose children show areas of concern. Readiness for Kindergarten will be evaluated at this time.
2. In grades K-8 Trinity Lutheran staff will meet with parents whose child shows weaknesses in learning areas. Specific concerns of retention will be discussed by the parents and the teacher by the end of the 2nd quarter.
3. Any student who is absent more than twenty (20) days during any one school year will be reviewed for retention.
4. Any student who fails two or more subjects may be promoted on probationary status to the next grade.
5. Any student who fails three or more subjects for three quarters in the school year may be retained at the grade level with the final decision being that of the principal, teacher, and parents.
D. ATHLETIC POLICY
Please refer to the athletic policy handbooks provided at the parent meeting at the beginning of each sports season for each individual sport.
Trinity Lutheran School allows student athletes to modify their athletic or team uniform for the purpose of modesty in clothing or attire that is in accordance with the requirements of their religion, cultural values or modesty preferences.
Transfer Policy: Students transferring from one school to another without a residency change, must sit out for 15 attendance days prior to being eligible for sports team participation.
Concussion and Sports
Trinity Lutheran School requires all student athletes, and their parent or guardian have signed an information document approved by the Illinois High School Association about the policy on concussion and head injuries.
Prior to practice or competition, all student athletes must have had an annual sports physical within the last 395 days. This form must be on file with the school office.
Trinity Lutheran School has an appointed concussion oversight team. At this time, the principal and the athletic director are members of this team and will oversee the implementation of the concussion protocol. This team ensures that all athletes and parents are informed of concussion related information and has established a return to play and return to learn protocol consistent with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. This protocol is followed whether the concussion occurs in sports or outside of sports. All athletes removed from play due to concussion must have a signed post-concussion consent form prior to returning to play.
Return to Play:
After a concussion, an athlete should only return to sports practices with the approval and under the supervision of their health care provider. When available, be sure to also work closely with your team’s certified athletic trainer.
Below are six gradual steps that you, along with a health care provider, should follow to help safely return an athlete to play. Remember, this is a gradual process. These steps should not be completed in one day, but instead over days, weeks, or months.
It is important for an athlete’s parent(s) and coach(es) to watch for concussion symptoms after each day’s return to play progression activity. An athlete should only move to the next step if they do not have any new symptoms at the current step. If an athlete’s symptoms come back or if he or she gets new symptoms, this is a sign that the athlete is pushing too hard. The athlete should stop these activities and the athlete’s medical provider should be contacted. After more rest and no concussion symptoms, the athlete can start at the previous step.
Step 1: Back to regular activities (such as school)
Athlete is back to their regular activities (such as school) and has the green-light from their healthcare provider to begin the return to play process. An athlete’s return to regular activities involves a stepwise process. It starts with a few days of rest (2-3 days) and is followed by light activity (such as short walks) and moderate activity (such as riding a stationary bike) that do not worsen symptoms. You can learn more about the steps to return to regular activities at: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/basics/concussion_recovery.html.
Step 2: Light aerobic activity
Begin with light aerobic exercise only to increase an athlete’s heart rate. This means about 5 to 10 minutes on an exercise bike, walking, or light jogging. No weight lifting at this point.
Step 3: Moderate activity
Continue with activities to increase an athlete’s heart rate with body or head movement. This includes moderate jogging, brief running, moderate-intensity stationary biking, moderate-intensity weightlifting (less time and/or less weight from their typical routine).
Step 4: Heavy, non-contact activity
Add heavy non-contact physical activity, such as sprinting/running, high-intensity stationary biking, regular weightlifting routine, non-contact sport-specific drills (in 3 planes of movement).
Step 5: Practice & full contact
Young athletes may return to practice and full contact (if appropriate for the sport) in controlled practice.
Step 6: Competition
Young athletes may return to competition.
Return to Learn:
Points of Emphasis To initiate the Return-to-Learn protocol, the student must be evaluated by a licensed healthcare professional and documentation must be provided to the school. The protocol emphasizes allowing the student to participate in school in a modified fashion so as not to worsen symptoms. Determining “how much is too much” may be a trial and error process. The student should be granted adequate time to complete missed academic work based on the amount of time needed for complete recovery. The student should report to the case manager daily in order to monitor symptoms and assess how the student is tolerating the accommodations (a symptom checklist is recommended), as well as assess how staff are implementing the modified learning plan. As the student’s recovery progresses through the outlined phases, teachers should be prepared to apply “mastery learning” criteria within their subject matter. By identifying essential academic work, teachers can facilitate recovery by reducing the student’s anxiety levels related to perceived volume of work that will be required once he/she is medically cleared to resume a full academic load.
Phase 1: No School/Complete Cognitive Rest Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student may experience high levels of symptoms that at best prohibit the student to benefit from school attendance and may cause symptoms to increase in intensity. During this stage, physical symptoms tend to be the most prominent and may interfere with even basic tasks. Many students are unable to tolerate being in the school environment due to severe headache, dizziness or sensitivity to light or noise. Treatment: Emphasis on cognitive and physical rest to allow the brain and body to rest as much as possible. Intervention Examples: - No School 6 - Avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms. Activities that commonly trigger symptoms include reading, video games, computer use, texting, television, and/or loud music. - Other symptom “triggers” that worsen symptoms should be noted and avoided in the effort to promote healing - No physical activity- this includes anything that increases the heart rate as this may worsen symptoms - No tests, quizzes or homework - Provide students with copies of class notes (teacher or student generated)
Phase 2: Part-Time School Attendance with Accommodations: Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student’s symptoms have decreased to manageable levels. Symptoms may be exacerbated by certain mental activities that are complex or of long duration. Often students can do cognitive activities but only for very short periods of time (5-15 minutes) so need frequent breaks to rest and “recharge their batteries”. Treatment: Re-introduction to school. Avoid settings and tasks that trigger or worsen symptoms. In the first few days of returning to school the goal is not to immediately start catching up on the missed work or learn new material. Rather the initial goal is simply to make sure the student can tolerate the school environment without worsening symptoms. This means the first few days often include just sitting in class and listening (no note-taking or reading). Once the student can tolerate this, he/she can try short intervals (5-15 minutes) of cognitive work per class. Intervention Examples: - Part-time school attendance, with focus on the core/essential subjects and/or those which do not trigger symptoms; prioritize what classes should be attended and how often. Examples: (1) half-days, alternating morning and afternoon classes every other day; or (2) attending every other class with rest in the nurse’s office, library or quiet location in between. - Symptoms reported by the student should be addressed with specific accommodations - Eliminate busy work or non-essential assignments or classes. - - Limit or eliminate “screen time” (computers, phones, tablets, smart boards), reading and other visual stimuli, based on the student’s symptoms. - Provide student with copies of class notes (teacher or student generated) - No tests or quizzes. - Homework load based on symptoms. There should be no due dates on homework assignments. This allows students to work at a pace that does not exacerbate symptoms and reduces their anxiety about completing the assignments. Many students have heightened anxiety during concussion recovery and due dates exacerbate this. 7 - Allow to leave class 5 minutes early to avoid noisy, crowded hallways between class changes. - No physical activity including gym/recess or participation in athletics - If this phase becomes prolonged and/or the student is unable to tolerate the school environment or do any work for even short periods of time, a tutor can be helpful (either in school or at home) to implement oral learning at a pace that does not worsen symptoms. A tutor can also help students organize their work and plan how they will spend their limited time studying (i.e. which assignment should I do first, second, third, etc), as many students are unable to do this basic “executive function” task during concussion recovery.
Phase 3: Full-Day Attendance with Accommodations: Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student’s symptoms are decreased in both number and severity. They may have intervals during the day when they are symptom-free. Symptoms may still be exacerbated by certain activities. Treatment: As the student improves, gradually increase demands on the brain by increasing the amount, length of time, and difficulty of academic requirements, as long as this does not worsen symptoms. Intervention Examples: - Continue to prioritize assignments, tests and projects; limit students to one test per day with extra time to complete tests to allow for breaks as needed based on symptom severity - Continue to prioritize in-class learning; minimize overall workload - Gradually increase amount of homework - Reported symptoms should be addressed by specific accommodations; Accommodations are reduced or eliminated as symptoms resolve - No physical activity unless specifically prescribed by the student’s physician or health care provider. If the student has not resolved their symptoms after 4-6 weeks, health care providers will often prescribe light aerobic activity at a pace and duration below that which triggers symptoms. This “sub-symptom threshold exercise training” has been shown to facilitate concussion recovery (14). The student can do this at school in place of their regular PE class, by walking, riding a stationary bike, swimming, or jogging. No contact sports are allowed until the student is completely symptom-free with full days at school and no accommodations, and has received written clearance from a licensed health care professional.
Phase 4: Full-Day Attendance without Accommodations: Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student may report no symptoms or may experience mild symptoms that are intermittent. Treatment: Accommodations are removed when student can participate fully in academic work at school and at home without triggering symptoms. 8 Intervention Examples: - Construct a reasonable step-wise plan to complete missed academic work; an extended period of time is recommended in order to minimize stress - Physical activities as specified by student’s physician (same as phase 3)
Phase 5: Full School and Extracurricular Involvement: Symptom Severity: No symptoms are present. Student is consistently tolerating full school days and typical academic load without triggering any symptoms. Treatment: No accommodations are needed Interventions: - Before returning to physical education and/or sports, the student should receive written clearance and complete a step-wise return-to-play progression as indicated by the licensed healthcare professional.
Trinity Lutheran School is a member of the Little Eight Conference and a member of the Southern Illinois Junior High School Athletic Association (SIJHSAA). Trinity also participates in the Lutheran Sports Association (LSA) tournaments when teams applying are eligible and accepted.
Trinity Lutheran Hoffman Eagles:
Fall
Spring
Pee Wee Basketball
(Boys & Girls 3rd – 5th grade)
Track
(Girls & Boys 4th – 8th Grade)
Little Eagles Basketball
(Boys & Girls 1st & 2nd Grade)
Scholar Bowl
(Girls & Boys 7th & 8th Grade)
Trinity Defenders Co-op Sports: (Sports Cooperative joining athletes from Trinity Hoffman with Trinity Hoyleton, and Trinity Centralia)
Fall
Winter
Spring
Baseball
(Boys 6th–8th Grade; 5th if needed)
Girls Basketball
(Girls 5th – 8th Grade)
Volleyball
(Girls 5th – 8th Grade)
Softball
(Girls 5th – 8th Grade)
Boys Basketball
(Boys 5th – 8th Grade)
Cross Country
(Boys & Girls 4th – 8th Grade)
Cheerleading
(Girls 5th – 8th Grade)
Hoffman Sports Co-op Representative Policy
Trinity Lutheran School of Hoffman is to have three voting members to the Defenders Sports Co-op. The members include our Principal, a school board member, and a parent representative.
Our Principal will be responsible to attend, participate and report Sports Co-op information to the school board, to the sport parents, and in the Trinity Times.
The school board representative must be an elected school board member or a school board representative from Ferrin or Carlyle. The school board representative for the sports co-op must be an active member on school board, attending meetings on a regular basis. The school board will elect the School Board Representative for the Defenders Sports Co-op by election, to take place at the January meeting. The term will begin in January. This term may be a one or two year term, dependent upon the amount of time remaining with their school board or school board representative term.
Parent Representative must have a child enrolled in Hoffman school and must not be employed by Trinity Lutheran Hoffman school or Defenders Sports Co-op. They will serve a two-year term, elected by the school board along with the school board representatives from Ferrin and Carlyle. Election for the parent representative will take place at the September school board meeting. The parent representative will begin attending Sport Co-op meetings immediately and will officially become the voting member representing Hoffman beginning in January. Interested parents who would like to serve in this position may submit their name to any school board member or to the principal, no later than the regular scheduled date of the September school board meeting.
If for any reason, the three members of the Defenders Sports Co-op cannot complete their term or obligation, the school board reserves the right to appoint a replacement for the remainder of the term that is being vacant.
The next election of school board representative will take place January 2025. Election of parent representative to take place September 2024 for a two-year term beginning in January 2025.
E. MUSIC PROGRAM POLICY
Band: Students in grades 4-8 are eligible to participate in the school band program.
F. DISCIPLINE POLICY
This policy establishes general discipline standards which serve as a guide for the faculty. One of the most important responsibilities you have as a student in your school is good behavior. Without good behavior, you do not learn what you should be learning, you make it hard for other students to learn, and you make it difficult for the teachers to teach.
To make sure that you and other students at Trinity know how to behave in school, a list of responsibilities and the kind of behavior that is expected have been written by the teachers and members of the Board of Christian Education.
If you do not behave as you should, disciplinary action will be taken by your teachers or principal.
Please do your part to follow the rules of the school. If you do, you will learn more and you will enjoy school more.
As students learn of God's supreme love for them and recognize Him as the source of all their gifts, they will respond by freely and happily living as children of God not only at school but in their whole life. This "love-response" is a gradual process which can happen only with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Specific Guidelines if a disciplinary problem occurs:
1. The teacher will discuss the problem with the student and disciplinary measures will be taken as necessary. Disciplinary Measures will be based upon the particular situation.
If the problem warrants, the teacher will inform the parents of the situation.
The teacher and principal will counsel the child and the parents as necessary.
In extreme cases, if the problem cannot be resolved, the principal may suspend the student from school until the parent/guardian and child agree on a means of resolving the problem. Depending upon the severity of the behavior, the principal may impose an immediate suspension, notifying the parents to come and pick up their child.
If suspensions and ensuing agreements are not successful, the principal may, with the approval of the Board of Education, expel the child from school. If the parents feel the expulsion is unjust, they may appeal the action to the Board of Christian Education for a final decision.
Disciplinary Measures
School officials shall limit the number and duration of expulsions and out-of-school suspensions to the greatest extent practicable, and, where practicable and reasonable, shall consider forms of non-exclusionary discipline before using out-of-school suspensions or expulsions. Potential disciplinary measures include, without limitation, any of the following measures:
1. Notifying parents/guardians.
2. Disciplinary conference.
3. Withholding of extra-curricular activities or privileges.
4. Temporary removal from the classroom.
5. Return of property or restitution for lost, stolen or damaged property.
6. In-school suspension.
7. Community service.
8. Seizure of contraband; confiscation and temporary retention of the personal property that was used to violate school rules.
9. Suspension from school and all school activities for up to 10 days. A suspended student is prohibited from being on school grounds.
10. Expulsion from school and all school activities for a definite time period not to exceed 2 calendar years. An expelled student is prohibited from being on school grounds.
11. Notifying juvenile authorities or other law enforcement whenever the conduct involves criminal activity, such as, illegal drugs (controlled substances), “look-alikes,” alcohol or weapons or in other circumstances as authorized by the reciprocal reporting agreement between the District and local law enforcement agencies.
12. Requiring student to receive counseling.
The above list of disciplinary measures is a range of options that will not always be applicable in every case. In some circumstances, it may not be possible to avoid suspending or expelling a student because behavioral interventions, other than a suspension or expulsion, will not be appropriate and available, and the only reasonable and practical way to resolve the threat and/or address the disruption is a suspension or expulsion.
Bullying
Trinity Lutheran School has a responsibility to ensure that the rights of its students are safeguarded. These include the right to learn in an environment that fosters a safe, supportive classroom without fear of being bullied, discriminated against or harassed.
By definition, bullying is repeated oppression, psychological or physical, of a less powerful person or group by a more powerful person or group of persons. It may be manifested in many ways e.g. harassment (verbal, sexual or psychological, by use of electronic devices …), victimization, coercion, intimidation, exclusion, and discrimination.
Any form of bullying is not acceptable behavior and results in hurt, fear, loss of confidence that the victim has been wonderfully made by God, and decreased social effectiveness. This includes cyber bullying. Cyber bullying or online bullying is the term used to refer to bullying and harassment by use of electronic devices
Steps
The following steps are a guide to dealing with reports of bullying.
1. If bullying is suspected or reported, the incident should be dealt with as soon as possible by the member of staff who has been approached, to ensure the student’s safety.
2. A clear account of the incident will be recorded and given to the Principal.
3. The Principal will then work through the school’s bullying policy.
Students
Students who have been bullied will be supported by:
Offering an opportunity to discuss the experience with a member of staff of their choice; reassuring the student; offering continuous support; and providing encouragement to form and maintain friendships with non-bullying students.
Students who have bullied will be helped by:
Discussing what happened;
Discovering why the student became involved;
Establishing the wrong doing and the need to change; and
Enlisting the support of parents/caregivers to help change the behavior and attitude of the student, where appropriate.
Teachers
Trinity Teachers will (through the word of God and inclusion in their routines) teach our students that:
1. Every individual has value in a community.
2. Every individual has the right to feel safe from bullying or harassment in all its forms.
3. Every conflict can be resolved. Victims and bullies both need help to solve conflict.
4. Every individual in a community is responsible for the safety of other individuals so that others can reach their potential in a supportive and non-threatening environment.
It is the responsibility of all Trinity staff, parents, and students to care for each other and take to heart the 5th and 8th Commandments and their meanings.
Implementation
1. Identification
A student reports bullying incidents/problems to student or staff member. The person receiving the report notifies the Principal as soon as possible. If the incident is not reported to the teacher and/or principal, it cannot be successfully handled. If your child tells you of an issue, please ask if he or she has reported it to their teacher or principal. If not, please contact the teacher first, then the principal.
2. Action
The report is documented
The report is filed in a central location.
The teacher and/or principal conducts initial interviews (the victim and bully are interviewed separately when possible).
The interviewer will make both parties aware of the bullying strategy and policy. The issues surrounding the particular incident are discussed. The bully is made aware of the effect their behavior has had on the other person(s).
The interviewer works with the students to devise strategies for conflict resolution and attempts to reach a position where both parties are satisfied with the outcome; i.e. the victim feels secure and the bully is prepared to modify his/her behavior in the future.
The victim understands that any further bullying must be reported immediately.
The strategy at this stage is not to apportion blame, or to punish; but to support the victim and make the bully aware of the school policy and of the consequences if behavior does not change.
An official warning to cease offending is made via note or call to parents and staff. Date of notification and means are documented on the report.
Subsequent Incidents
After careful investigation: Offending student may be excluded from an activity for a specified amount of time, suspension, or expelled (depending on the severity of the offense).
Truancy
Truancy will be defined as the missing of one or more class hours a day without the permission of the school or parents. Discipline of students who are truant will be as per discipline policy on page 5 of the school handbook. Teachers will not admit a student to class unless the parent has previously phoned or the student has seen the principal first.
G. FIREARMS, DRUGS, BATTERY & STUDENT INFORMATION REPORTING SYSTEM
In order to ensure a safe and orderly environment for teaching and learning and to promote the health and well being of students, Trinity Lutheran School, Hoffman endorses a substance use/abuse policy that includes prevention, assistance, and discipline. This policy extends to the regular school days and school-sponsored activities held before or after school or on weekends. It extends to the school building, the school grounds, school buses, and wherever school sponsored activities are held.
I. Prevention
Trinity Lutheran School will provide students with information and instruction about the prevention of drug and alcohol use/abuse. The health education curriculum will include instruction on current information concerning alcohol and drugs and their effects upon the body. Classroom instruction will also assist the students in making responsible decisions about the use of alcohol and drugs. Community agencies will be used to provide resources or presentations to assist the school in drug and alcohol prevention activities.
II. Discipline
A. Rules of Conduct
No student shall be under the influence of or possess, use, distribute, sell, or attempt to distribute or sell any drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products. Drugs or alcohol include substance containing alcohol, substances which are intended to alter the physical and/or mental condition, and look-alike drugs. Students shall not have in their possession a greater amount of prescription drugs than are required for that day. All medications (prescription or over-the-counter) must be brought to the teacher or the principal before the start of school.
B. Disciplinary Procedures:
1. First Offense:
Student will be suspended for three days.
Conference with the student and parents/guardians.
In the case of possession, distribution or selling the police will be informed.
2. Second Offense:
Student will be suspended for ten days.
Conference with the student and parents/guardians.
In the case of possession, distribution or selling the police will be informed.
3. Any Subsequent Offense:
Expulsion will be recommended and the student will be suspended pending expulsion proceedings.
In addition, The principal shall immediately notify local law enforcement officials of written complaints of battery committed against school personnel; and the principal shall notify the Illinois State Police within 3 days of each incident of battery through the School Incident Reporting system in IWAS.
The principal shall immediately notify a local law enforcement agency of firearm incidents on school grounds. If a student is in possession of a firearm, then the school administrator shall also immediately notify the student’s parent or guardian.
The principal shall immediately notify a local law enforcement agency of verified incidents involving drugs and/or firearms occurring on school grounds and notify the Illinois State Police of such incidents through the School Incident Reporting system in IWAS.
H. SCHOOL – HOME RELATIONSHIP POLICY
The faculty wishes to work with children and parents who are willing to walk with us in ONENESS of spirit and purpose. The home is and always will be the chief agency for the Christian training of the child. A Christian Day School does not relieve the parents of their God-given obligation. Rather, the purpose of our school is to serve as an important aid to and extension of the home in the vital work of Christian training. If the home and school are both CHRIST-CENTERED, your child is receiving the best education he or she can receive anywhere.
At times there may arise an occasion where there is a difference of opinion between the school, the teacher, the student, or the parents. Should problems arise, the procedure of rectifying these differences is as follows:
1. Contact the teacher and discuss the matter. We refer to Matthew 18:15-18, for guidance in this process.
Show respect for child/teacher relationships, authority, and class environment. We desire the spirit of cooperation.
Maintain and honor confidentiality in such matters.
2. If not resolved, the principal becomes involved:
May meet with those involved individually.
Should continue to emphasize step 1 approach as a positive way to handle the problem.
Bring those involved together to share constructive ideas and thoughts.
After all of the above and under the Principal's counsel, the Pastor may be contacted to share team direction.
If not resolved, the Board of Education, Principal, and Pastor become involved not as individuals but as an elected committee under Executive session. The Pastor sits as liaison member of the Board at the time. Called/contracted teachers or aides may be invited to attend executive session under the approval of the Board of Christian Education.
It is advised for the parents wishing to speak with a teacher to call right after school if possible. Calls in the morning or before school hours may take a teacher out of his or her room leaving children unattended. This can cause serious difficulties in the classroom. Calls and texts sent directly to the teacher concerning school matters should be kept to a minimum. Please follow the guidance provided by each teacher at the beginning of the year as to how best to contact him or her. The Board of Christian Education is always open to input from the parents. Yet, when there is a difficulty with the teacher, as Christians we are obligated to follow the procedure outlined in Matthew 18:15-20. Malicious discussion by the teacher, student, or parents of another is wholly contrary to the Words of Jesus and the Eighth Commandment. All this is done to respect one another and to speak the truth in love with the goal of reconciliation.
I. DRESS CODE
Do you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Dress appropriately and practice habits of personal cleanliness. We encourage parents to govern their child's clothing, making sure that it is within these guidelines. Exercising modesty, not wearing clothing to draw undue attention to oneself, as Christians, is expected also as students attend evening or weekend school sponsored events as well. Students who are inappropriately dressed will be sent home to change. (See the Sports Handbook for guidelines for team uniforms.)
Dressing neatly and respectfully shows respect for yourself and others. Trinity wishes its students to be appropriately attired, representing the school at all times. The responsibility for proper dress and hygiene rests with the individual and his/her parents. Students should strive to present a positive image that is not distracting in a Christian educational setting.
Shorts/Skirts/Dresses
Shorts may be worn until Oct. 31 and after March 1.
Spandex/legging style should not be worn EXCEPT under dresses.
Short length should extend to fingertips with arms straight at the side.
Dresses and skirts should have shorts underneath.
Pants
Pants should fit appropriately and not be "sagging."
Pants with holes, rips, tears, tight-fitting or frayed/torn pants will not be worn at school.
Leggings, pajama pants, yoga pants, and spandex are not appropriate school wear and will not be worn to school.
Shirts
Shirts that cover the torso, have a modest cut, and have a sleeve are acceptable.
Images and words must be appropriate and not offensive. No alcohol, tobacco or drug-related logos, or offensive words will be allowed.
At no time should undergarments, or shoulder and upper part of the arm, skin or any part of the midriff, front or back, be visible with moderate student activity.
Shoes
Sneakers are the recommended and appropriate footwear for school. Flip flops, Crocs, boots, and slides are not considered appropriate for safety reasons.
Any sandal type shoe must have a back strap.
Gym shoes should be kept at school to be worn during gym activities.
Other
Jewelry may be asked to be removed during P.E. or recess times in all grades for safety.
No excessive makeup is to be worn.
Hats, caps, or sunglasses shall not be worn in the school building on a regular school day from the time students arrive at school until they leave the building UNLESS it is a designated school function such as “hat day”.
The school does not prohibit hairstyles that are historically associated with race, ethnicity, or hair texture, including, but not limited to protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists.
J. FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are an opportunity for students to learn outside of the classroom and off of school property. Appropriate field trips will be planned by the classroom teacher and approved by the principal to enhance curricular or cultural growth of our students. Transportation for field trips may be by school bus or cars driven by parents or their designee, as upon approval of the school. Information/Permission slips about each trip will be sent home Chaperones may be necessary for some but not all trips. Bus trips are limited to classroom students and parents/guardians only (as deemed necessary by the teacher). Parents who drive must provide a copy of current driver’s license and insurance.
K. GRADUATION SERVICE GUIDELINES
The Service:
Will be held in church.
Graduation service will be held the Sunday prior to closing chapel at 4:00 in the afternoon. Time may be adjusted if necessary with Board approval.
The Valedictorian and Salutatorian are determined by the highest cumulative GPAs from 6th, 7th and 8th grade school records. Students must have attended Trinity all of 8th grade.
Ushers, Crucifer, and Acolytes: Seventh grade students will be the ushers, crucifer, and acolytes. The 7th grade students with the highest cumulative GPA’s in 6th and 7th grade will be selected. They must have attended Trinity all of 7th grade.
Eighth grade students who have an incomplete will not participate in graduation exercises.
L. HEALTH POLICIES
School physicals are required for students entering Kindergarten, fifth, and ninth grade. Immunization requirements are in conjunction with Unit 1 Schools and State requirements. Students will be excluded from school by October 15th if requirements for health examinations and immunizations have not been met.
HEALTH AND IMMUNIZATION POLICY
Any student who has not met the State of Illinois requirements for health examinations (physicals) or immunizations will be excluded from Trinity Lutheran School on October 15 of each school year. The student is welcome back to school when documented proof of the state requirements has been met.
DENTAL EXAMINATIONS POLICY
The State of Illinois requires all students in Kindergarten, 2nd, and 6th grades to have a dental examination by May 15th of each year. In order for Trinity Lutheran to meet this requirement we will require documented proof of the examination no later than May 1st of each school year.
EYE EXAM POLICY
All students enrolling in Kindergarten and new enrollments to the school must provide documented proof of an eye examination completed by a licensed optometrist or a physician licensed to practice medicine in all branches and conduct eye examinations as defined by the law. Students failing to produce documented proof of such an exam will be excluded from Trinity Lutheran School on October 15 of each school year. The student is welcome back to school when documented proof of the state requirements has been met.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE/FEVER FREE POLICY
All communicable diseases must be reported to the student's teacher and the principal as soon as the parent is aware of the illness. Students will not return to the school until they have been fever free for at least 24 hours. As flu symptoms (vomiting and diarrhea) are considered a potentially communicable illness, students with these symptoms should be kept out of school; students sent home with these symptoms shall not return on that day.
LICE and NIT FREE POLICY
The Board of Education or the principal may authorize an inspection of the children at Trinity at any time they deem necessary. The inspection will be conducted by a designated person(s). The principal or members of the Board will designate those performing the inspection. All children will be obligated to participate in the inspection.
Whenever a teacher becomes aware that a student has head lice or nits, the principal shall be immediately notified. The principal will notify the parent that they should immediately pick up their child. If unable to contact the parent, the school will attempt to notify the grandparent/emergency contact person. Information will be sent home with the parent at this time regarding treatment of the child at home.
Prior to returning to school, the child must:
Bring proof of treatment of an accepted lice treatment product.
Submit a dated certification, signed by a licensed beautician, the county nurse, or the physician on record that the child is lice and nit free.
A log will be kept and proof of the treatment dated for each child sent home. At the time of any outbreak of lice, a note will be sent home to all parents. Follow-up inspections will be made to ensure that there has not been a reoccurrence.
SCHOOL MEDICATION POLICY
It is required that a physician's order accompany all prescription drugs. The order should state that a valid health reason exists which makes the administration of such medication during school hours necessary. All medications must be in the original container and labeled with the student's name. A member of the school staff will distribute all medications unless designated otherwise. An annual action plan is requested for students with prescribed asthma inhalers. epinephrine injectors, diabetes/seizure medication and medical cannabis.
A. Trinity Lutheran School and school personnel incur no liability for injuries occurring when administering asthma medication, an epinephrine auto-injector, or an opioid antagonist. Parents or guardians must sign a statement acknowledging this protection.
B. The school allows the self-administration and/or self-carry of asthma/diabetes/seizure medication and epinephrine injectors upon receipt of the necessary documents.
C. The school has adopted a policy for the administration of a medical cannabis infused product to a student who is a registered qualifying patient. The policy/procedures allow a parent or guardian or other designated caregiver to administer the product subject to the restrictions outlined in 105 ILCS 5/22-33. The policy/procedures allow for a school administrator or school nurse to administer the product and may also allow a student who is a registered qualifying patient to self-administer the product under the supervision of a school administrator or school nurse, subject to the restrictions outlined in 105 ILCS 5/22- 33
D. The school does not allow the administration of undesignated epinephrine injectors, undesignated opioid antagonists, undesignated asthma inhalers, or undesignated glucagon.
E. The school agrees to comply with any other applicable State or federal law or regulatory requirement.
M. Attendance and Truancy
Compulsory School Attendance
Regular daily school attendance is required. Each day is planned for sequential learning and missing class time will cause your child to miss part of the learning process. Students arriving after 8:15 will be counted as tardy. Parents/guardians must sign in/out students arriving after 8:15 or leaving prior to 3:15.
If your child is well, he/she should be in school. If he/she is ill, he/she should be kept home. DO NOT send a student to school if he/she has had a fever within the past 24 hours. The student must be fever free without the aid of any fever reducing medication for 24 hours before returning to school.
If you know in advance of a family situation or commitment that necessitates your student being absent from school, arrangements must be made in advance with the school office. This requires the dates of the absence, reason for the request, and approval of the school principal to receive an excused absence and credit for make-up work. Future assignments, when possible, will be sent home with the student and should be completed before the student returns to school.
This attendance and truancy policy applies to individuals who have custody or control of a child: (a) between the ages of six (on or before September 1) and 17 years (unless the child has graduated from 8th grade), or (b) who is enrolled in any of grades kindergarten through 8 in the school regardless of age.
The parent/guardian of a student who is enrolled must authorize all absences from school and notify the school in advance or at the time of the student’s absence. A valid cause for absence includes:
illness (including mental or behavioral health of the student),
observance of a religious holiday,
death in the immediate family,
family emergency,
other situations beyond the control of the student as determined by the Board,
other circumstances that cause reasonable concern to the parent/guardian for the student’s mental, emotional, or physical health or safety, or other reason as approved by the Principal or designee.
Students absent for a valid cause may make up missed homework and classwork assignments in a reasonable timeframe.
Truancy is defined as absence without valid cause for one or more periods of the student’s school day. A truant absence is an unexcused absence. After the 9th school day (5% of regular attendance days) on which a student is absent without valid cause, he/she is deemed to be truant under Illinois law. Interventions to address truancy may include attendance letters, parent/guardian conferences, and/or involvement of the Clinton County Truancy officers and/or local law enforcement. No punitive action, including out-of-school suspensions, expulsions, or court action will be taken against a chronically truant student unless available support services and other school resources have been provided to the student, or offered to the student and refused.
Absenteeism and Truancy Program
The Principal or designee shall manage an absenteeism and truancy program in accordance with the School Code and School Board policy. The program shall include but not be limited to:
A protocol for excusing a student from attendance on a particular day(s) or at a particular time of day when his/her parent/guardian is an active-duty member of the uniformed services and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or combat-support postings.
A process to telephone, within two hours after the first class, the parents/guardians of students in grade 8 or below who are absent without prior parent/guardian notification.
A process to identify and track students who are truants, chronic or habitual truants, or truant minors as defined in 105 ILCS 5/26-2a.
A description of diagnostic procedures for identifying the cause(s) of a student’s unexcused absenteeism, including interviews with the student, his or her parent(s)/guardian(s), and staff members or other people who may have information about the reasons for the student’s attendance problem.
The identification of supportive services that may be offered to truant, chronically truant, or chronically absent students, including parent-teacher conferences, student and/or family counseling, or information about community agency services. See policy, Programs for Students At Risk of Academic Failure and/or Dropping Out of School and Graduation Incentives Program.
A process for the collection and review of chronic absence data and to:
Determine what systems of support and resources are needed to engage chronically absent students and their families, and
Encourage the habit of daily attendance and promote success.
Reasonable efforts to provide ongoing professional development to teachers, administrators, Board members, school resource officers, and staff on the appropriate and available supportive services for the promotion of student attendance and engagement.
A process to request the assistance and resources of outside agencies, such as, the juvenile officer of the local police department or the truant office of the appropriate Regional Office of Education, if truancy continues after supportive services have been offered.
A protocol for cooperating with non-District agencies including County or municipal authorities, the Regional Superintendent, truant officers, the Community Truancy Review Board, and a comprehensive community-based youth service agency. Any disclosure of school student records must be consistent with Board policy, Student Records, as well as State and federal law concerning school student records.
An acknowledgement that no punitive action, including out-of-school suspensions, expulsions, or court action, shall be taken against a truant minor for his or her truancy unless available supportive services and other school resources have been provided to the student.
The criteria to determine whether a student’s non-attendance is due to extraordinary circumstances shall include economic or medical necessity or family hardship and such other criteria that the Principal believes qualifies.
LEGAL REF.: 105 ILCS 5/26-1 through 18. 705 ILCS 405/3-33.5, Juvenile Court Act of 1987. 23 Ill.Admin.Code §§1.242 and 1.290. CROSS REF.: 5:100 (Staff Development Program), 6:110 (Programs for Students At Risk of Academic Failure and/or Dropping Out of School and Graduation Incentives Program), 6:150 (Home and Hospital Instruction), 7:10 (Equal Educational Opportunities), 7:50 (School Admissions and Student Transfers To and From Non-District Schools), 7:60 (Residence), 7:80 (Release Time for Religious Instruction/Observance), 7:190 (Student Behavior), 7:340 (Student Records)
Policy Adopted: January 11, 2023
N. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS
Students have the responsibility to:
Students are required to attend daily during the entire regular school term.
Students are welcome at school at 8:00 unless they ride a bus or if parents need to go to work early, in which case they will stay in extended care.
Students should be in their classrooms by 8:15. Students arriving after 8:15 will be marked Tardy.
Students are to be quiet and walk in the hallways and washroom at all times.
During all athletic functions at our school the children are not to run in hallways. Hallways are restricted to restroom use only. Classrooms will not be used as places to play and the band room/preschool room is also not to be disrupted.
After school (3:15) if there is any kind of extracurricular practice children must stay in the extended care until the teacher or coach arrives. This pertains to all children.
If a student is going to be absent from school, the parents shall call or write a written excuse and notify the school by 8:30 a.m. on that day. All missed classroom work and tests must be made up by the students. Anticipated Absence: No student may leave school during the day, unless he/she has permission from the principal or a note from the parents that has been turned into the office. If a student needs to leave school for any reason, he/she must be signed out by the parent or designated person picking them up before leaving the building. Sign out sheet is in the office.
If a student needs to leave early, a note should be sent in the morning and given to the teacher.
Students should:
Come to school every day and be on time. Regular daily attendance is required.
Show how the love of Jesus is directing their actions.
Do their work.
Ask their teachers for help.
Help care for books, supplies, and all school and community property.
Obey all school rules; obey all teachers and staff in both school and school-sponsored activities.
Be polite to all teachers and staff.
Be fair and kind to other students.
Use appropriate language.
Not chew gum in school building during the school day.
Not bring personal items such as toys, electronic games, personal music players or phones to the classroom.
Attain the best possible level of academic achievement.
Respect school and community property.
Take pride in the school and school activities.
Convey school messages to parents or guardians.
Not bring weapons to school. Students who do bring weapons (knives, brass knuckles, etc., ammunition, fireworks, firearms, etc., or look-a-likes of the above) to school may be suspended or expelled. (Note: Due to events of violence in school today, the principal must check out any rumors of weapons being brought to school. We do not anticipate a problem, but we need to check it out.)
Students have the right to:
1. A meaningful learning experience
2. An appropriate and challenging curriculum
3. Protection from physical and verbal abuse
4. The opportunity to practice decision-making within the democratic process
5. Be disciplined in private, if possible.
6. Be disciplined in a humane and appropriate manner
7. A school climate free of violence and disruption
8. Knowledge of the reasons for any discipline which may be administered
9. Know that Jesus forgives all of our sins daily
10. The freedom to try out for school and extra-curricular activities if qualified
O. VARIOUS FACTS AND INFORMATION
Chapel is held Wednesdays 8:40-9:15 a.m.
All K-8 students are required to take the Christian Faith Studies and Lutheran instruction.
It is the legal responsibility of all teachers to report any suspected child abuse. Each teacher is a mandated reporter.
The Parent Teachers League (PTL) meets four times a year. Every parent of a student at Trinity is a member of the PTL. The purpose of the organization is to foster communication between home and school and to provide financial support to the school.
Lost and Found (in school office): Label all items brought to school.
Telephone Policy: The office telephone may be used after receiving permission from the teacher or principal. Students are discouraged from bringing cell phones to school. Any cell phone at school should be turned in to the teacher at the beginning of the school day and picked up after dismissal. Do not expect your child to check his or her cell phone throughout the day. Please call the school office if you need to contact your child.
Damage to school property (textbooks, desks, maps, etc.) will be paid for by the parent of the student.
Any money sent to school should be in an envelope with name, grade, amount and purpose listed and given to the teacher at the beginning of the day.
Breakfast Program - Breakfast items will be provided for students who attend Morning Extended Care Monday - Friday from 7:30 am to 7:50 am. There is no charge for the breakfast program, but parents will be billed for the Extended Care supervision at a rate of $0.50/quarter hour. Breakfast items will be in compliance with our School Wellness Policy. All items must be finished prior to being dismissed to their respective classrooms.
Trinity Lutheran School has a daily hot lunch program.
Students are encouraged to use our fine lunch program. Lunch payments must be kept up to date. There is a 5 day grace period on delinquent lunch payments.
Tornado, fire, intruder, and earthquake drills are held with student participation regularly during the year. Escape route diagrams are posted in each classroom.
In case of inclement weather, a Remind message will be sent out notifying families of closure. Weather related decisions are made with consideration of local road conditions as well as decisions of CORLHS and other local schools.
Integrating the Faith and Illinois State Goals, and Common Core Standards are used as our Curriculum Guide.
Extended Care for students is provided before and after school. Hours are 7:15 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. The cost for using the extended care program is $0.50 per 15 minutes.
REMINDER: Children should NOT be at school before 8:00 a.m. unless brought to school by parents due to work requirements. Students are to be picked up after school promptly at 3: 15.
Students may not go home with another student after school unless they have written permission from their parents or guardians. In cases of emergency parents may call the school to grant permission for another person to pick up their child(ren).
Children not picked up by 3:20 must go to extended care until the parent arrives. All athletes staying after school must go to extended care unless the parents have given the school a signed permission slip allowing the athlete to leave the school grounds with another parent.
After school social functions sponsored by a coach or teacher may be held with the approval of the principal. All other social functions must be approved by the board of trustees.
Occasionally a video to expand on a current topic will be used in the classroom. Media to be used as educational material in the classroom shall be approved by the principal prior to use. No R-rated films shall be shown.
Student owned cell phones and smartwatches are not to be used during the school day and are encouraged to be left at home. Once students arrive at school, phones will be turned in and returned at the end of the day. If there is a need to call a parent the student will be able to use the school phone. If a student neglects to turn in their phone and has it out during the school day it will be taken to the office and the parent will be notified to pick up the cell phone.
P. ANNUAL ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION
Date: 8/1/24
To: all building occupants
RE: Annual Asbestos Management Plan Availability Notice
From: Trinity Lutheran School Administrator Beth Boester
The following notification is being released for compliance with the regulations of the Federal AHERA guidelines for the management of asbestos containing materials in schools.
As required, the building at Trinity Lutheran School - Hoffman, IL was initially inspected for asbestos and the findings of the inspection were documented in the School's Asbestos Management Plan. As required under AHERA rules and Regulations, Six Month surveillances and three year Reinspection are routinely conducted and any change in the condition of the asbestos materials is being documented.
The Asbestos Inspection Report and management Plan are on file in the Administrative Office and are available for public review during normal business hours. Individuals interested in reviewing the Management Plans are asked to submit a written request to the school.
Sincerely,
Beth Boester
School Administrator
Q. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY:
Trinity Lutheran School admits students of any race, color, age, gender, disability, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school. Our school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, disability, age, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, hiring practices, and athletic and other school-sponsored programs.
One of the senior members of the Board of Christian Education is responsible for ensuring that these policies are followed. Policies are reviewed annually by faculty, administration, and Board of Christian Education.
To file a complaint regarding discrimination, you may contact:
Office for Civil Rights, Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
111 North Canal Street, Suite 1053
Chicago, IL 60606-7204
(312) 886-8434; FAX# (312) 353-4888
or
Office for Civil Rights
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202-1100
1-800-421-3481
FAX: (202) 245-6840; TDD: (877) 521-2172
E-mail: OCR@ed.gov
Web: www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
Please read through this handbook and discuss it with your child(ren) as necessary. Sign and return this form signifying that you have received and read a student/parent handbook and will abide by the policies set forth within.
Lord’s Blessings,
Mrs. Boester
Parent Signature: ___________________________ Date___________
___________________________ Date___________
(Print name(s) here)__________________________________________
Student Signature: __________________________ Date___________
(Print name(s) here)__________________________________________
Use these signature lines as needed:
Student Signature: __________________________ Date___________
(Print name here)____________________________
Student Signature: __________________________ Date___________
(Print name here)____________________________