2016-2017 Student & Family Handbook
Arrival: The school day officially starts at 8:40am. If you drive your child to school, drop-off is between 8:25am and 8:35am at the front of the building. Buses and vans pull into the north parking lot starting at 8:30am. Classroom routines begin at 8:40am. Please support your child in being on time and ready to begin class at 8:40am. Early morning drop-off in the library begins at 8:00am. If your child arrives early it is mandatory for an adult to walk to the library and sign in the child in. Check our calendar for days and times of morning Chess, Unicycling and Ukulele Clubs. These activities will also require adult sign in.
Dismissal: Children board the buses at approximately 3:20pm. Walker pick-up begins at 3:10pm in the front entry. Any changes in dismissal require communication with the front office. Bus changes are authorized through the Massini Bus Company. To reach the bus company call 413-229-7962 or email massinibus1@verizon.net.
Visiting and Volunteering: All visitors MUST check in at the office and pick up a Visitor’s Pass. We welcome volunteers for short and long term projects. If you would like to volunteer please speak with Christine Kelly in the front office to complete paperwork for mandated background checks.
School Supplies: School supplies such as pencils, scissors, crayons, paper, glue, and rulers are provided by the school. Please check with your child’s classroom teacher about possible needs if you are interested in donating supplies for special projects.
Daily Snack: Please send your child to school with a healthy snack. Students are usually hungry by recess. Please do not send candy or soda and please respect classroom-specific guidelines where we are caring for students with food allergies.
Breakfast & Lunch: School Lunch (including milk) costs $2.25; just milk costs 50 cents. We also serve breakfast for $1.25 starting at 8:30am. Paperwork regarding free/reduced lunch is attached. Please do not hesitate to ask me, Nan Thompson, or Christine Kelly for support if you have questions about how to complete these forms.
Allergies: The cafeteria has a peanut-free table. We will be asking children not to sit at this table if they come to school with a lunch containing any nut products. This will help us keep those children who have life-threatening allergies to peanut products safe.
Student Belongings: Please take a few moments to label your child’s belongings. It is helpful to label backpacks, coats, lunch boxes, and even shoes. The Lost & Found is located in the cafeteria.
Footwear: Sneakers are the preferred footwear and are necessary on gym days. Please avoid flip flops, clogs, and shoes with high heels. We value children moving freely and participating in active play. If purchasing sneakers, please select a variety with non-marking soles.
Birthdays/Celebrations: Student birthdays and celebrations are an important part of our life at Muddy Brook. However, in line with our district wellness policy, we ask that you not send in cupcakes or other birthday treats to the classroom. We will find other ways to celebrate. Thank you for your support with this.
Toys/electronic games: Toys and hand-held electronic games from home will not be allowed during the learning day at Muddy Brook. There are special occasions and some other flexibility, but the general rule is to please leave toys at home.
Finally, please think about your morning routines and preparing your child(ren) for a wonderful day. Do talk with your child(ren) about your own experiences in school, making friends, and learning about a new teacher. Encourage her/him to ask questions and know that there will be times when she/he is confused. This is part of learning. Encourage your child to persist at challenging tasks and notice when this results in learning something new. Encourage active over passive activities. For example, it will almost always be a better idea to read before school instead of watching television.