ADULT AND CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION CLASSES

            Miami-Dade County Public Schools offers more than 100 programs of study in applied technology and adult education.  More than 92,799 students participate in day and evening classes at 21 adult education centers across the county. 
            The applied technology program offerings include agribusiness, business technology, family and consumer sciences, health sciences, marketing and public service education. 
The adult general education program:

• assists adults in becoming literate and in obtaining the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency.
• assists parents in obtaining the educational skills to become full partners in the education of their children.
• assists adults in completing high school graduation requirements or the equivalent.

            Adults move at their own rate through levels of reading, language, writing and mathematics.  Additionally, students may use computers with Internet access to receive instruction using an exclusive curriculum in academic or vocational program areas.
            Financial assistance may be available to low-income individuals or disabled workers.  For more information contact an adult, skill, or technical center near you, or contact the hotline at 305-558-8000.

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STUDENT ATTENDANCE

       Student attendance is a means of improving student performance and is critical to raising student achievement.  Attendance is defined as school attendance, class attendance, tardiness and early sign-out.  Absences initially will be recorded as “unexcused” and will be changed to “excused,” upon receipt of reason for absence.

       A student’s illness, medical appointment, death in the family, observance of religious holidays when it is mandated for all members of that faith, school-sponsored or educational enrichment activity approved in advance by the principal, subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance and documented absences beyond the control of the parent/guardian as approved by the principal are the only acceptable reasons for a student to be granted an excused absence. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to report and explain an absence or tardiness to the school within three (3) days upon the student’s return to school or the absence will be recorded as unexcused.

       Students with excused absences will have three days to make up all missed work.  Failure to make up assignments for excused/unexcused absences will result in the lower assessment of the student’s academic and/or effort grade. Parents and students are required to appear before an Attendance Review Committee to receive counseling and support relative to the attendance history of the student.  In addition, students may be given prescribed activities that are designed to mitigate the loss of instructional time.

       A student accumulating ten or more unexcused class absences in an annual course, or five or more class absences in a designated semester course, will have quarterly, semester and final grades(s) withheld pending an administrative screening and completion of assigned interventions by the Attendance Review Committee.
Attendance data on age appropriate students who are habitual truants (15 or more unexcused absences within 90 calendar days) is submitted to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles and the student will be ineligible to receive or maintain driving privileges. Driving privileges may be reinstated upon demonstration of 30 consecutive days of attendance without any unexcused absences.

       Specific guidelines for student attendance are reflected in The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida rule 6Gx13-5A-1.041, Student Attendance: www2.dadeschools.net/schoolboard/rules/Chapt5/5a-1.041.pdf with specific procedures delineated in the Student Attendance Reporting Procedures Handbook Grades PK-12 ehandbooks.dadeschools.net/policies/89.pdf.

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BEFORE-, AFTER-SCHOOL CARE AT ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS     

            This year, 213 public elementary schools in Miami-Dade County will offer after-school care programs on school days.  Before-school care programs will be provided as needed. After-school care programs are conducted from the time of school dismissal until 6 p.m. Before-school care programs begin approximately one hour before school starts. Parents should check with their child’s school for specific start times.

            All after-school care programs provide planned activities, which include homework assistance, indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, snack time and various recreational activities. Many programs offer reading and math tutoring, music, ceramics, chess, drama and other classes designed to provide participants with a variety of educational and enrichment experiences. Before-school care programs provide supervised, quiet activities for students.
The cost of after-school care is $30 per week; the cost of before school care is $15 per week.

            These programs are offered by one of six providers: Miami-Dade County Public Schools, the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), the Family Christian Association of America (FCAA), Concerned African Women (CAW), and Cool Kids Learn (CKL).

            Interested parents should contact the principal’s office at their child’s school to learn which programs are offered. Further information may be obtained by logging on to communityed.dadeschools.net or by calling 305-253-9920, ext. 2194.

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BILINGUAL PARENT OUTREACH PROGRAM

            Immigrant families new to Miami-Dade can find information about education, community services, and parental rights and responsibilities through free seminars, presented in Spanish and/or Haitian Creole, by the Bilingual Parent Outreach Program. This program, offered by the Division of Bilingual Education and World Languages, is an outreach service for immigrant parents, and/or limited English proficient parents. Free childcare is provided for seminar participants.
            A schedule of seminars may be obtained by calling Dr. Yvonne Lim-Petersen, Division of Bilingual Education and World Languages at 305-995-1920 or by visiting the website at http://bilingual.dadeschools.net/bewl/parent.asp.

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M-DCPS IS NUMBER ONE BLOOD DONOR IN STATE

            The District’s Blood Drive program not only educates and promotes the importance of healthy community service, but it also saves a few lives in the process.
            This school year, drives held by Miami-Dade County Public Schools employees and students, 17-years-old or older, resulted in 18,426 pints of blood donated and over 76,000 lives saved. This is the reason M-DCPS, which contracts with Community Blood Centers of South Florida (CBCSF), is the number one donor in the state.
            Schools and offices with 15 or more committed donors can call and schedule a bloodmobile by contacting Alex Martinez, CBCSF, at 786-229-8471, or Connie Rodriguez at 786-942-8904.
            For further information, please contact Diana Venturini, Director, Office of Community Services at 305-995-1300.

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CHARTER SCHOOLS

            Charter schools are public schools operating under a contractual agreement with the local school board.  They are nonprofit institutions typically run by a group of parents or teachers, organizations, municipalities, universities, and/or combinations of more than one group.
            There are 63 charter schools currently in operation in Miami-Dade County with approximately 15 additional charter schools scheduled to open in Fall 2008.
            For further information regarding charter schools, including their locations, please contact Charter School Operations at 305-438-2220 or visit the charter school web site at http://charterschools.dadeschools.net.

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CHOICE PROGRAMS

            Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) continues to develop programs and schools under post-unitary status that meet the needs of students and prepare them for the world of work. In support of the district initiative to expand choice programs that promote equity and equal access, M-DCPS has a myriad of choice programs available that include magnet programs, controlled choice, satellite learning centers, voluntary public school choice program (I Choose!), and K-8 Centers.
            Magnet programs attract students countywide to study in specialized fields. Our magnets feature challenging and stimulating education in such themes as Careers and Professions, Communications, International Education, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Montessori, and Visual and Performing Arts.
            The Controlled Choice program offers an open enrollment option to residents of specific geographical boundaries of the county instead of an assigned home school. Two satellite centers offer employees of Mt. Sinai Medical Center and Assurant Solutions the option to enroll their children and attend school at the work site. In addition, K-8 centers offer parents the option of keeping their children on the same grounds through their eighth-grade year, or moving into a traditional middle school.
            Further information, including a list of all these programs, addresses and telephone numbers, may be obtained by calling School Choice and Parental Options at 305-995-1922, or visiting http://choice.dadeschools.net.

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CITIZEN INFORMATION CENTER

            Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Citizen Information Center (CIC) is the place to go for answers to general questions about the school system.
            Located in Room 158 of the School Board Administration Building, 1450 N. E. Second Ave., the center also provides the public with documents, general information and agendas for the School Board meetings.
Citizens can contact the center at 305-995-1128 or visit Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m.
            The Citizen Information Center Website may be found at http://cic.dadeschools.net.  The CIC Website contains links to frequently viewed sites, as well as forms used to place public records requests and to request appearances before the School Board.

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CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT

            Miami-Dade County Public Schools approved a revised Code of Student Conduct (COSC). The COSC focuses on providing and maintaining a safe and positive learning environment for students, faculty, staff and community.

            A major consideration in the application of the Code of Student Conduct is cultivating a positive school climate to support academic achievement, promote fairness, civility, acceptance of diversity, and mutual respect. Toward that end, the range of corrective strategies has divided into five groups, along with both recommended and mandated disciplinary actions.

            Teachers, counselors and administrators work to use a variety of progressive corrective or guidance strategies prior to, during and after formal corrective action.

            Differences in age and maturity are recognized in determining the types of corrective action to be taken. However, the procedures outlined in the COSC apply to all students under the jurisdiction of Miami-Dade County Public Schools. The COSC is in force during regular school hours, while students are being transported on a school bus and at such times and places – including but not necessarily limited to school-sponsored events, field trips, athletic functions and other activities – where appropriate school administrators have jurisdiction over students.

            Principals are authorized to take administrative action whenever a student's behavior away from school has a detrimental effect upon other students or on the orderly educational process. Types of behaviors range from acts that disrupt the orderly operation of the classroom, school functions, extracurricular activities or approved transportation to the most serious acts of misconduct and violent actions that threaten life.

            Several types of corrective actions exist for improper conduct and behavior. These include detention, work assignments, reassignment to a special school or program, suspension or expulsion.

            The "work back" program gives students recommended for expulsion the option of returning to traditional school settings earlier than the maximum expulsion time permitted under state law.  Students must attend an alternative program, earn credit and maintain good attendance and behavior.  The work back program is not an option for students charged with Group V behaviors, which include but are not limited to: aggravated assault with a deadly weapon or possession of a firearm.

            The COSC addresses students' rights and responsibilities pertaining to the right to learn; attendance; students' records; grades; free speech, expression and assembly; and publications. It also outlines parents' rights in regard to assuring their child's opportunity for an education.

            Students or parents having problems interpreting the COSC should address concerns through the school principal. Additionally, should the concerns not be resolved at the school level, an appeal can be made at the region office and subsequently to the District.

            Parents/guardians can access the COSC in English, Spanish and Haitian-Creole on the M-DCPS’ website at ehandbooks.dadeschools.net/policies/90/index.htm or they may request a copy from their child’s school.

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COLLEGE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

       The College Assistance Program (CAP), in the Division of Student/Career Services, offers college awareness as well as financial aid and scholarship workshops for students and parents.
       In each high school, CAP advisors assist students in completing applications for college entrance exams, admission to postsecondary institutions, financial aid and scholarships.
       The annual National College Fair, which will be held February 22, 2009, is co-sponsored by M-DCPS and the National Association for College Admission Counseling. It features more than 180 colleges and universities from around the country.
       The College Assistance Program, Inc. (CAP, Inc.), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, has awarded thousands of dollars to college-bound students. 
       For more information, students should contact their school's CAP advisor in the Student Services Department or call the Division of Student Services at 305-995-1743.

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WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE?
NATIONAL COLLEGE FAIR COMES TO MIAMI, SUNDAY, FEB. 22

       South Florida students and parents can meet representatives from more than 180 colleges and universities at the 2009 National College Fair in Miami from noon-4 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 22, 2009, at the Sheraton Miami Mart Hotel (formerly the Radisson Mart), 777 N.W. 72nd Ave., Miami.

       Students, parents and others are invited to the free fair.

       The event allows students and others to meet with college representatives and get their questions answered.  Information sessions on financial aid, college planning and admission and testing requirements also will be offered. 

       Counseling and computer centers will allow students to access career interest surveys and information about college preparation, admissions and scholarships.

       The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) and Miami-Dade County Public Schools are sponsors of the event.  School Board Vice Chair Perla Tabares Hantman is co-chair of the National College Fair's local committee. Every year NACAC sponsors fairs in 48 cities across the country that attract more than 650,000 students and parents.

       For more information, contact the College Fair Hotline at 305-995-1743 or visit www.nacacnet.org.

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COMMUNITY SCHOOLS PROVIDE EDUCATIONAL
OPPORTUNITIES AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

       Miami-Dade County Public Schools has 17 community schools and 21 adult education sites offering classes in just about every subject - from yoga to foreign languages to photography - either free or at very affordable prices. Most courses are offered in the afternoon or evening.

       Over 100,000 people have taken advantage of these educational opportunities, and if a group wants to learn a new skill, Miami-Dade County Public Schools will arrange a class in a neighborhood school.

       Community schools offer classes for people of all ages, skill levels and language capabilities. Students enrolling in typing or computer classes can enhance job skills. Some courses can even be taken for college credit. For more information on the advantages of community schools, call 305-253-9920, extension 2194 or log on to communityed.dadeschools.net.

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COMPREHENSIVE STUDENT SERVICES PROGRAM MEETS STUDENTS’ NEEDS

       Miami-Dade County Public Schools offers its students and their families many support services.

       The Division of Student Services implements the Comprehensive Student Services Program, a pre-K to adult program based on a Student Development Framework that addresses each student’s academic, personal/social, community/career, and health and wellness needs. The necessary services are provided by a team of guidance counselors, College Assistance Program (CAP) advisors, career specialists, TRUST specialists, Safe Schools specialists, social workers, psychologists, the District Crisis Management Team, and health screeners.

       The goal of student services programs and services is to reduce barriers to student achievement and to provide a smooth transition for students in pre-K to adult. Key strategies include enhanced health and wellness services; maintaining an effective level of prevention, preparation, intervention, response, and recovery services; and establishing, as well as expanding partnerships with healthcare and other community-based organizations.

      For more information, contact the school guidance counselor or Student Services chairperson at your child’s school. You may also call the Division of Student Services at 305-995-7338 or visit http://studentservices.dadeschools.net.

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COMPREHENSIVE READING PLAN
K-12 COMPREHENSIVE RESEARCH-BASED READING PROGRAM (CRRP)

      Miami-Dade County Public Schools has one of the nation’s most comprehensive reading plans for all students in Kindergarten through grade 12, incorporating requirements of the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and the state’s Just Read, Florida! programs.

       The plan calls for instruction in the five essential elements of reading: phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. Assessments include initial, screening and diagnostic.

       Developed by staff with the assistance of an Ad Hoc Reading Committee, it has been identified at the national and state levels as an exemplary reading program that has resulted in significant student gains.

This State-mandated program includes the following strategies and requirements:

       • Ninety minutes of daily language arts reading instruction for students in kindergarten through grade five;

       • In secondary school: Intensive Reading or Intensive Reading + (Plus) is offered for less proficient readers;

       • Assessment of students’ reading proficiencies, using screening, progress monitoring and diagnostic assessment as needed;

       • Immediate, intensive intervention is provided as needed at all grades levels to accelerate reading achievement; and

       • Emphasis on daily, systematic and explicit phonics instruction in Kindergarten through grade three; and

       • Fluency, vocabulary and comprehension are explicitly taught in secondary schools.

       Key elements of the program are extensive professional development for teachers at all levels, a structured approach to reading instruction, and an emphasis on reading across all areas of the curriculum with expectations clearly identified at each grade level. Systematic support is provided by the school-site administrator, reading coach, Reading Leadership Team, and District personnel who synchronize effective implementation of the plan.

       The K-12 CRRP is supported by a wide variety of community organizations, higher education institutions and local agencies.

       For more information, contact the Division of Language Arts/Reading at 305-995-3122.

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DADE PARTNERS

            In 1978, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) created the Dade Partners program to link business and community resources with area schools. The program invites businesses, community leaders, local agencies and nonprofits to become decision makers and participants in Miami-Dade County public education.

            Since its inception, Dade Partners has grown to more than 3,000 entities, which have formed over 3,950 partnerships between their organization and our schools. Together these partners continue to share their expertise and provide our schools a multitude of resources, including mentorships and internships, classroom supplies and materials, as well as funding for teacher and student recognition events.

            For more information about Dade Partners, please contact Christina Scott, Supervisor, Dade Partners program, at 305-995-2775.


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NEED HELP WITH HOMEWORK?
JUST CALL DIAL-A-TEACHER

       For youngsters and their parents in Miami-Dade County’s public schools, help with homework is as close as a phone call.

       Dial-A-Teacher, at 305-995-1600, offers homework help on the phone by certified teachers from 5 - 8 p.m., Monday through Thursday, on school nights.  Help in Spanish and Haitian-Creole is also available. 

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EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

            Students must have emergency contact information on file at their schools to ensure that parents and other designated individuals may be quickly notified in the event of an emergency regarding their children.
            Parents fill out this information on a student data card when they enroll their children for the first time at a Miami-Dade County public school; it is then updated yearly. It is important, however, that parents update this information in writing during the school year should changes to names, telephone numbers or addresses occur. Additionally, the Parent Portal, one of M-DCPS’s technology initiatives allows parents to go online and make changes to telephone numbers.
            When an emergency involves a student at school or during a school-authorized activity, school officials immediately notify one of the parents. If neither parent can be contacted, a relative or friend who is designated on the student data card as the emergency contact will be called. Students will not be released to individuals who are not listed on the child’s emergency card. The rescue squad and/or the police are called to the school in the event the parent(s) or designated contact person(s) cannot be reached and the student's illness or injury is serious.

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EXTENDED FOREIGN LANGUAGE PROGRAM

      The Extended Foreign Language (EFL) program is implemented as a “school within a school” model and serves students who are interested in developing bilingual and biliterate proficiency in English and another language.  Program participants start at an early age to achieve true language fluency.  Students in the EFL program receive from one to two hours of instruction in the targeted second language, such as Spanish, Italian, French, Haitian Creole or Chinese.

       Students participating in the program for one full school year are automatically enrolled the next year at the subsequent grade level. The program provides a continuum of bilingual studies through grade 12.

       Additional information, as well as a list of all schools offering the EFL program and dual language programs, may be obtained by calling Dr. Joanne H. Urrutia, Administrative Director, Division of Bilingual Education and World Languages at 305-995-1945 or visiting the website at http://bilingual.dadeschools.net.

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FACT SHEET

(Figures based on 2007-2008 Statistical Highlights)

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THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FAIR & EXPOSITION

       The Fair will open its doors on March 26, 2009, this year to showcase students’ talents and provide families with 18 days of fun!  The Fair also provides students with a $2,000 non-renewable scholarship to attend an accredited college, university or certified trade school program. High school seniors or Adult/Vocational students must apply at their school sites. All recipients will be honored at a dinner ceremony at The Fair. 

       The Walter B. Arnold Youth Hall of Fame award offered by The Fair was created to recognize students in grades 6-12 to reward their outstanding service to their school and/or community. All finalists are honored at a dinner ceremony at The Fair and receive a $100 and a plaque. Inductees to The Youth Hall of Fame receive $1,000 each and their portrait will hang in their honor on the Youth Wall of Fame at The Fair. Students must apply at their schools.

       For more information on these and other Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition projects, exhibits and opportunities please log onto The Fair website at www.fairexpo.com, or contact Diana Venturini, Director, in the Office of Community Services at Miami-Dade County Public Schools at 305-995-1367.

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FALL REGISTRATION AND SCHOOL HOURS

       Miami-Dade County’s public schools will open their doors Monday, August 18 to start the 2008-2009 school year.

      Pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first-grade students will attend school from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Second-through fifth-graders will attend school from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. K-8 Centers will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Wednesdays, all elementary school students will be dismissed at 2 p.m. Please inquire with your child’s school to confirm opening and dismissal times, since various schools have different bell schedules.
       Middle school hours will be from 9 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.  Senior high school hours will be from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Some elementary, middle and senior high schools as well as some special K-8 and alternative-education centers will operate on individual schedules. Parents should telephone their children's schools for those hours. Various middle schools operate on senior high school hours. Please inquire with your child’s school to confirm beginning/dismissal.
       Parents who don’t know which school their child will attend should contact Attendance Services, Maps and Boundaries Department at 305-883-5651.
       Although there is no cut-off date for registering, students are urged to register early to avoid processing delays and to ensure they can attend school on opening day.

       Students entering most of the pre-kindergarten programs must be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2008.           

       Students entering kindergarten must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2008.

       To enter first grade, students must be 6 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2008 and should have successfully completed kindergarten.

        Students entering Miami-Dade County’s public schools for the first time must present the following documents:

• proof of age;
• proof of a current physical examination, including a tuberculosis clinical screening (as well as appropriate follow-up if necessary); and
• a certificate of immunization.

       Two proofs of current address are required in the form of a real estate broker’s or attorney’s statement of parents’ purchase of residence, a properly executed lease agreement, the electric deposit payment receipt or electric bill, and/or a current Homestead Exemption card. Also required is completion of a “Disclosure at Time of Registration” form, which can be obtained from Attendance Services.

       Students transferring from other school districts should provide their most recent report card or other records from the last school they attended.

      Foreign-born students will follow the same procedures indicated for the native born.  First time students, both foreign-born and transfers from other states may register at their residence schools.  For clarification regarding foreign-born student issues, parents should contact Attendance Services, Foreign Records/Student Visa Department, at 305-884-2044 for the K-12 program, or 305-883-1445 for the adult program.

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FLORIDA KIDCARE: CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM

       Florida KidCare is the state’s children’s health insurance program for uninsured children from ages 0-18. It is made up of four parts: MediKids, Healthy Kids, the Children’s Medical Services Network for children with special health care needs and Medicaid for children. At the time of application, Florida KidCare will check which program the child may be eligible for based on age and family income.

Some Florida KidCare programs may have limited space, and applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. When MediKids, Healthy Kids and the Children’s Medical Services Network are full, enrollment for these programs will close. Medicaid is always open for children who qualify.

To qualify, a child must meet income eligibility requirements and be under age 19, uninsured, a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen, not be the dependent of a state employee eligible for health insurance, and not be in a public institution.
While there is no charge for Medicaid for children, other programs incur monthly premiums, depending on household size and income. Most families pay $15 or $20 per month. If the cost is more, Florida KidCare will inform the parent(s). There may also be small charges or co-payments for some services. A child who is a member of a federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe may qualify for no-cost Florida KidCare coverage.

For an application or additional information, call KidCare at 1-888-540-5437, or visit www.floridakidcare.org.

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FREE AND REDUCED-PRICE MEALS

      Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) serves nutritious meals every day. Students may pre-pay for lunch on-line at www.PayPams.com, or in the school cafeteria with a check or cash. Breakfast is served to students in all Miami-Dade public schools daily at no charge. Elementary school lunch is $2.25. Middle and high school lunch is $2.50.

      Children from households that meet federal income guidelines are eligible for either free or reduced price lunch.  All meals must meet criteria established by the U. S. Department of Agriculture. Reduced price lunch costs 40 cents a day.

       Each school and the school system’s Department of Food and Nutrition have copies of the policies that are available to the public. M-DCPS follows the federal government’s policy of allowing students to be approved by direct certification. This provision states that students from households that receive food stamps or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families are eligible for direct certification. Students approved by direct certification are not required to have an application on file in order to receive lunch at no charge.

      Application forms are sent to all homes with a letter to parents or guardians at the beginning of each school year.  To apply for free or reduced-price meals, parents and/or guardians of students not approved by direct certification should fill out one application per family, even if children attend different District schools, and return the application to one of the schools involved. Additional copies are available in the principal’s office at each school.

       Further information may be obtained from the school system’s Department of Food and Nutrition at 786-275-0400.

       NON-DISCRIMINATION: In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC, 20250-9410, or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal-opportunity provider and employer.

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FULL-SERVICE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OFFER HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

       Twenty-three Miami-Dade public schools are designated as Full Service Schools. They integrate education, medical, and/or social and human services on school grounds to meet the many needs of children and their families.
       The Full Service Schools initiative focuses on providing incentives to schools, school districts, and state and local public and private health and human service agencies to develop collaborative relationships that improve access to services for children and their families. Also, the initiative aims to coordinate the provision of services, eliminate unnecessary duplication of services across agencies, and support children’s performance in school.

HEALTH CONNECT IN OUR SCHOOLS (HCiOS)

       The Children’s Trust, Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the Miami-Dade County Health Department along with community partners developed “Health Connect in Our Schools” (HCiOS) during school year 2005-2006 to address student health and mental health issues in an equitable fashion in all Miami-Dade County schools. Teams of professionals and paraprofessionals (health and mental health providers) will be stationed at over 165 schools during school year 2008-2009. Each successive school year thereafter, an increasing number of schools will receive a health / mental health team.  The goal is to have 100 percent of schools covered by a health/ mental health team by 2011. The aim of HCiOS is to connect students to a permanent medical/ mental health home outside of the school setting where prevention and promotion of healthy practices lead students and their families to healthier lives as well as improved student achievement.
       For more information, contact Deborah Montilla, Administrative Director, Division of Student Services, Comprehensive Health Program, Full Service Schools and Health Connect in Our Schools 305 995-7324.

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

            Students looking to graduate from a Miami-Dade public high school have three options: the standard four-year, 24-credit program or two optional accelerated graduation programs which require students to complete 18 credits within three years. Students and their parents are to select one of the accelerated graduation options no later than the end of ninth grade. If no selection is made, the student will be considered to have selected the four-year, 24-credit standard program.

            All three options require students to earn a passing grade on the Grade 10 Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) and to successfully complete the required coursework. The two accelerated graduation options are the College Preparatory and the Career Preparatory programs. A grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale is a graduation requirement for the 24-credit standard program, while a grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale is required for the College Preparatory option and a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for the Career Preparatory option.

24-credit Standard Program Requirements

            For students entering 9th grade in 2007-2008 and beyond, the graduation requirements have changed. Students will be required to complete the following in order to graduate: four credits in language arts with a major concentration in composition and literature; four credits in mathematics, including Algebra I and Geometry; three credits in science; three credits in social science; one credit in fine arts; and one credit in physical education with an integration of health.  Additionally, students will have to complete eight elective credit courses.  Four of these elective courses must be in an approved major area of interest and the remaining four elective credits may be any of approved elective courses that are offered at the school.  A community service project is also required for students in the standard four-year, 24-credit program.

            For students who entered 9th grade in 2006-2007 or before, the courses required to graduate include: four credits in language arts with major concentration in composition and literature; three credits in mathematics, including Algebra I and Geometry; three credits in science; and three credits in social science. The standard program requires additional courses, which include one semester of Life Management Skills, a full credit of Physical Education (this requirement is met by completing a semester of Personal Fitness and any other approved physical education semester course), a semester credit of Performing Fine Arts and a semester credit of Practical Arts, and 8.5 general elective credits. A community service project is also required for students in the standard four-year, 24-credit program.

18-credit College Preparatory Option Requirements

Students selecting this graduation option must complete the following requirements:  four credits in language arts with a major concentration in composition and literature; three credits in mathematics, including Algebra I and Geometry; three credits in science; three credits in social science; two credits in the same foreign language or demonstrated proficiency; three credits in elective; and at least six of the 18 credits must be dual enrollment, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate,  Advanced International Certificate of Education, or Level 3 courses. 

18-credit Career Preparatory Option Requirements

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HEALTH CARE, STATE-REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS

       Children scheduled to enter pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade for the 2008-2009 school year need to be properly immunized or they will not be allowed to enter school.

            The state’s school immunization program requires all students attending kindergarten through 12th grade to receive a second dose of the measles vaccine.

            All children entering pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade must complete a hepatitis B vaccine series in addition to already required immunizations for diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps and rubella.

            All children entering, attending or transferring into pre-Kindergarten, grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 in Florida are required to have the varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, or a history, documented on a DH Form 680, of varicella disease. This requirement also applies to students retained in grades pre-kindergarten through six.
All children entering, attending or transferring into Kindergarten are required to have two doses of the varicella (chicken pox) vaccine or a history documented on DH Form 680.  This requirement also applies to students retained in kindergarten.

            Children may attend school if they are in the process of completing their immunization series and have a valid temporary medical exemption form on file at the school. Only the Florida Department of Health Certificate of Immunization, DH Form 680, may be accepted as verification for immunization compliance.

            Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact their health care provider to schedule an appointment for children affected by the school immunization requirement. Required immunizations are covered under most health insurance policies. 

            Children whose parents cannot afford to pay for vaccines may receive immunizations under the Vaccines For Children program, which provides vaccines free of charge at all county health department centers.

            For more information, contact the Special Immunization Program Office of the Miami-Dade County Department of Health at 786-845-0550.

            Miami-Dade’s public schools provide various health screenings under the supervision of school or health-care personnel.

            Vision screenings will be conducted annually for students in grades Kindergarten, 1, 3, 6, 10, and new students to Florida in grades 2, 4 and 5. 

            Hearing screenings will be conducted annually for students in grades Kindergarten, 1, 2, 3, 6, and 10 and new students to Florida in grades 4 and 5.

            Parents of students who fail any of the screenings or appear to have a vision or hearing problem will be advised to seek care from their health care provider.

            Each year, students in grade 6 are screened for scoliosis.

            When students have long-term or chronic illnesses or disabilities that require maintenance type medication, school personnel may assist students in the administration or dispensing of the medication when the medication schedule cannot be adjusted to provide for administration at home.

            A parent or guardian must sign a consent form, and a licensed health care provider must sign a written treatment plan that explains the necessity for the medication. These authorization forms need to be filed only once during the school year. When a change in medication is required, the parent or guardian and the physician must submit new authorization forms. The principal will lock up medication in a designated area.

            For more information, contact Wilma Steiner, R.N., the school system's supervisor of comprehensive health services, at 305-995-1235.

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IMPORTANT DATES IN 2008-2009 SCHOOL YEAR

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THE K–12 MATHEMATICS CURRICULUM

The K- 12 Mathematics Curriculumis designed to drive classroom instruction that will help students to understand and use mathematics to reason, communicate, and solve problems in a technological world.

The curriculum’s goals and requirements include the following components:

• For students entering 9th grade in 2007-08 and thereafter, they will complete a minimum of four high school mathematics courses, which includes Algebra I, by grade 9; Geometry by 10th grade, and two courses equivalent to Algebra I or higher.  A recommended sequence includes Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and a Pre-Calculus course.
• Students will be actively engaged in the mathematics they are learning as teachers employ discovery methods of instruction.
• Students will be immersed in reading and writing in the mathematics classroom, which will allow them to develop into mathematically literate citizens.
• Students will be encouraged to participate in mathematics competitions such as the Elementary Math Bowl, MATHCOUNTS or Mu Alpha Theta to assist them with the growth and expansion of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Teachers will be engaged in continuous professional development that includes the latest brain research, so that they can actively engage their students in making sense of the mathematical concepts they are learning.

The math plan provides a structured approach that improves the capacity of teachers to teach mathematics and to transform teaching practices that focus on the meaning of mathematics and problem solving. 

M-DCPS is in partnership with local universities and informal mathematics institutions to provide programs that enhance professional development for teachers and design competitions and outreach programs, as well as internship and mathematics experiences.

For more information, contact Melanie Megias, Administrative Director, Curriculum and Instruction (Mathematics) at 305-995-7079.

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K-12 SCIENCE PLAN

            Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ K-12 Science Plan helps students achieve the science literacy necessary for success in post-secondary education and in the workplace.

            The plan’s goals and requirements include the following components:

• Every student who graduates from M-DCPS will have completed a minimum of three high school science courses that include Earth/Space Science, Biology, and Chemistry (or Physical Science).
• Students will be immersed in reading and writing literacy in the science courses to allow them to develop into scientifically literate citizens.
• Students will be encouraged to participate in science competitions or the science fair to assist them with the growth and expansion of scientific thinking.
• Teachers will engage in continuous professional development to advance in content knowledge and pedagogical practices.

            The plan provides a structured approach to improve the capacity of teachers to teach science and to transform teaching practices that focus on concept formation and problem solving.

            M-DCPS Curriculum and Instruction (science) is in partnership with local universities and informal science institutions to bring programs that enhance professional development for teachers, design competitions, outreach programs, internship experiences and science experiences in general.

            For more information, please contact Colleen Del Terzo, Administrative Director, Office of Curriculum and Instruction (Science), 305-995-1905.

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MENTORING PROGRAMS

Mentoring is defined as an alliance of two people that creates a space for dialogue that results in reflection, action and learning for both. Miami-Dade County Public Schools houses numerous mentoring programs that support student learning and promote social success. The listed mentor programs are managed through the Office of Community Services.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS: The oldest and largest not-for-profit youth Mentoring organization in the United States. The program was started in Miami-Dade County in 1958, serving more than 6,000 M-DCPS students. Presently, 38 schools participate in the program, providing mentoring one-on-one to over 480 students. There are presently 323 mentors entered into the Schools Volunteer Program database.

Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation Scholarship Program:  The program has been involved with M-DCPS since 2002.  CICF provided $100,000, to the original program, which was matched by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation for Citrus Grove Middle and Brownsville Middle Schools. The two schools were chosen by the foundation. In the summer of 2006, the foundation awarded an additional $50,000, in scholarships to 10 M-DCPS students. The CICF scholarship dollars are now managed by the Take Stock in Children staff at Miami Dade College.

eMentoring Dade County Bar Young Lawyers (DCBA): Approximately 30 young attorneys, who are members of the Florida Bar Association, are mentoring students one-on-one attending Miami Carol City Senior and Miami Senior High Schools. The students participating in DCBA are students from the Law Magnet Center for Legal and Public Affairs. Attorneys participating in the program periodically make presentations at the two schools. Also, during the school year the attorneys sponsor field trips to various law firms, allowing the students to be a part of the day-to-day activities in a law firm.

Listeners School Volunteer Program: The goal of the Listeners Program is to involve volunteers, students, the elderly, parents, business people, etc., with students and staff to enhance the quality of education in our schools. The program offers students the opportunity to interact with an adult who is not in a position of authority. Lacking this authority, the Listener is not expected to try to solve any problems the students might reveal. The relationship between a student and a Listener is on-going and may be terminated at the will of either the student or the Listener.

Take Stock in Children (TSIC) Mentoring Scholarship Program:  TSIC is a not-for-profit organization serving at-risk youths from low-income families with scholarships, mentors, and hope since 1995. Currently, the Miami-Dade program is serving nearly 400 students. Since starting in 1995, TSIC has served more than 1,000 students, of which, over 600 have successfully graduated from high school, and 468 graduated from college. To date, scholarships totaling $4.6 million have been spent for MDCPS students. TSIC is presently operating in 60 Miami-Dade County middle and senior high schools.

WOMEN OF TOMORROW: The Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program (WOT) is designed to inspire, motivate and empower at-risk young women to live up to their full potential through mentoring by highly accomplished professional women and scholarship opportunities. The program is presently housed in 48 schools and serves 1,100 students. To date, WOT has provided scholarships totaling $1,103,395, since 2000.  For further information regarding the mentoring programs managed at the District through the Office of Community Services, please contact Patricia Lee, Staff Specialist at (305) 995-7317 or email her at plee1@dadeschools.net.

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MIAMI-DADE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

            The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida exercises legislative authority over the school system and determines policy in accordance with Florida laws. Each elected official of the nine-member board represents a specific district within the county.
            The School Board generally meets once each month on a Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the first-floor auditorium of the School Board Administration Building (SBAB), 1450 N.E. Second Ave.  Approved dates are posted in the Citizen Information Center, SBAB Room 158, and on Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ website: www2.dadeschools.net/schoolboard/meetings/schedule_2008.asp.  Meetings are open to the public and are broadcast live on WLRN-TV Channel 17 and on WLRN-FM 91.3 as well as webcast on www.wlrn.org.
            Interested citizens may address the board on matters listed on the agenda or topics not listed on the agenda by filing a written request with the Citizen Information Center by 4:30 p.m. on the Monday before the meeting.  Matters not listed on the agenda are addressed only during public hearings, which are held immediately following the conclusion of the regular agenda, but no later than approximately 6:30 p.m.  Deadlines and procedures, which differ when the Monday deadline is not met, can be obtained by contacting the Citizen Information Center at 305-995-1128.  Anyone wishing the service of either a Spanish or Haitian-Creole interpreter when speaking before the Board must request that service in their written request to speak.
            Request for appearance before the School Board forms are available online at cic.dadeschools.net at all Regional Centers and at the Citizen Information Center, SBAB Room 158.  The fax number is 305-995-1151.
            School Board members’ offices are located at the School Board Administration Building.  Board members may be contacted at 305-995-1334.

            Members of The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida:

            • Chair Agustin J. Barrera (District 6)

            • Vice Chair Perla Tabares Hantman (District 4)

            • Renier Diaz de la Portilla (District 5)

            • Evelyn Langlieb Greer (District 9)    

            • Wilbert "Tee" Holloway (District 1)

            • Martin Karp (District 3)

            • Ana Rivas Logan (District 7)

            • Marta Pérez (District 8)

            • Solomon C. Stinson (District 2)

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NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND SUPPLEMENTAL EDUCATIONAL SERVICES (SES)

         Parents can now sign their children up for free tutoring! As a result of the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB), children can receive extra academic help in the areas of math, reading, and language arts. This free tutoring is available if a child’s school has been identified as “in need of improvement.” Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) will be holding an enrollment period for 2008-2009 State-Approved Supplemental Educational Services (SES). Parent Information Packets will be sent home to parents of students who attend eligible schools.

         Students attending eligible Title I schools and who receive free or reduced-price meals are eligible to participate in the SES Tutorial Program. SES is a tutorial program offered by private providers, approved by the State of Florida, at no cost to the parent. Services must be consistent with instructional programs of the school district and aligned with the State’s academic content standards. Supplemental Educational Services must be provided outside of the regular school day (before and after school or on weekends). Parents interested in enrolling their children in SES may complete and submit an enrollment form at their child’s school, via the District’s Parent Portal at myportal.dadeschools.net/parent/, at one of the SES Parent Choice Fairs, or via fax at 305-995-2540. The enrollment period is August 18 - September 8, 2008.

         A list of the 2008-2009 Title I schools eligible to participate in SES can be found at http://nclbchoice.dadeschools.net. For additional information, please contact 305-995-FIND (3463), Title I Administration at 305-995-4549, or ask at your child’s school.

*Parental Choice Information Fairs for SES
Fall Enrollment
2008-2009 School Year

*Please note that these dates are subject to change so be sure to reference the latest and more accurate Parent Information Fairs schedule, available at http://nclbchoice.dadeschools.net.

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THE PARENT ACADEMY
Helping Parents Help Their Children Succeed In School

The job of parenting isn’t easy. It doesn’t come with a handbook.  That’s why Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) created The Parent Academy – a source to help answer parents’ questions on topics that impact children’s lives, including helping children learn, parenting skills, financial management, and health and wellness.

The Parent Academy offers free workshops at public schools, libraries, parks, colleges, private businesses and neighborhood centers across the county.  Check for workshop offerings at www.theparentacademy.net.  Join more than 100,000 parents who have already completed a Parent Academy class!

The Parent Academy offers classes through nine subject strands, including:

• Parenting Skills
• Help Your Child Learn
• Early Childhood
• Personal Growth
• Financial Skills
• Computers & Technology
• Health & Wellness
• Arts & Culture
• Languages

The Parent Academy partners with community and cultural organizations to present exciting family learning events that encourage the entire family to learn together.  The themed events are held monthly at fun, educational and culturally enriching museums and local attractions, and combine academics, exploration and discovery while promoting positive parent-child interactions. Upcoming events are listed on The Parent Academy web site.

For additional information, please call The Parent Academy at 305-995-2680 or visit our web site at www.theparentacademy.net

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PARENT INVOLVEMENT:  THE KEY TO STUDENT SUCCESS

       As students head back to class, parents are full of hope for their children’s success. The most important thing parents can do is to become involved in their student’s education.

       Parents are encouraged to attend school activities and meetings, especially the annual Open House and Parent-Teacher Conferences. Joining the schools’ PTA or PTSA and participating in the Educational Excellence School Advisory Council (EESAC) are other excellent ways to be involved. This participation is important at every level of your child’s education, especially in the critical adolescent years. Parents need to maintain open and honest communication and to work together with the teachers to assist students in making academic decisions and planning for the future.

       Parents will find a parent resource center in every school, where they can obtain information about educational and parenting issues and learn about meetings and workshops. Many reports are provided throughout the year to assist parents in monitoring their student’s success, as well as the overall performance of the school. The School Board policy on parental involvement (6Gx13-1B-1.012, Parental Involvement – A Home- School District Partnership) delineates the rights and responsibilities of parents as they work with the school to ensure student success.

       Some other important steps that every parent should take include:

• Helping your child develop good study habits, providing your child with a quiet, well-lit area and a desk or table to do homework each evening;
  
• Making sure your child is ready to learn by being well rested, fed and emotionally prepared to study every day; 
  
• Providing encouragement and guidance so that your child is able to resolve challenging homework and social problems on his or her own; and
  
• Maintaining contact with your child’s teachers, sending written notes or email messages, and arranging for telephone conversations or in-person conferences. The school office personnel, assistant principal or counselor will assist in arranging these meetings.           

       For further information, parents should contact the school administration, or contact the Office of Parental Involvement at 305-995-1233.

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RADYO LEKÒL (SCHOOL RADIO) CREOLE PROGRAM FOR THE HAITIAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY

       Miami-Dade County Public Schools presents Radyo Lekòl, a 30-minute education news program, in Haitian Creole. Radyo Lekòl enhances communication with none English-speaking Haitians in the community.  The program airs on various stations as listed below:

• WLRN FM 91.3 Monday - Friday at 9:06 p.m.
• WRCH AM 1610 Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m.
• Mega AM 1020 Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Additionally, Radyo Lekòl presents a 10-minute school news update on:

• Planet 1580 AM Wednesdays at 4:20 p.m.

       For more information, contact Haitian Affairs in the Office of Public Relations, Carline Faustin, Director/Host, at 305-995-1188 or Simone Degraff, Media Specialist/Host, at 305-995-4247.

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REGIONAL CENTERS

       Miami-Dade County Public Schools is subdivided into four Regional Centers. Each center consists of an assistant superintendent and staff responsible for providing support and assistance to parents and students.

       Parents' questions or issues regarding their child's school that are not resolved at the school level may be addressed to a Regional Center director. If the parents are not satisfied with the outcome, they may appeal the decision to the Regional Center assistant superintendent.

       Questions relating to boundaries, attendance and transfer policies can be answered at the Regional Center. Addresses and telephone numbers of these offices are:

       Each Regional Center oversees senior high schools and their respective feeder-pattern schools. The senior high schools within each Regional Center are listed below:

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SCHOOL SAFETY

       Safety and security is of paramount importance to Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Below is information on how to report crimes that occur at school.

       To help students and staff feel more at ease in reporting school crime, they are encouraged to call 1-877-7BE-BRAVE or 1-888-432-2424, the School Crime Hotline, 24-hours-a-day, allowing anonymous reporting of actual or anticipated school crime.  For truants call 305-371-SKIP.  The toll-free hotline is answered by trained personnel who record the reported information and ensure a prompt response by the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department or other appropriate law enforcement agencies.  Similarly, the District’s Crime Stoppers Programs allows the public to dial 305-471-TIPS to disclose information while remaining anonymous. Tipsters may be eligible for cash rewards.

       In an effort to streamline the critical incident notification process, Miami-Dade County Public Schools established a hotline for principals during the 2007-2008 school year, so they can immediately notify the District about any critical incident. Once the call is received, an electronic notification is sent out to District and Regional Center personnel. This notification process has reduced the amount of calls that a principal was required to make and has allowed school level personnel to focus on the incident at hand.

       M-DCPS has a comprehensive Emergency Operation Plan (EOP) that provides school-level personnel with guidelines and procedures to address a variety of critical incidents that may occur in schools.  In addition to CIRP, the school system has a District Critical Incident Response Team (DCIRT) that is available to assist schools with any critical incident. The DCIRT meets the standards of the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

       For more information, call School Operations/Special Programs at 305-995-2710.

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SECONDARY SCHOOL REFORM

Work with our students today, and they’ll work beside you tomorrow!

            The Secondary School Reform (SSR) Plan is a roadmap for substantively altering the educational experience of all high school students in the District to assure that future graduates have the skills they will need to effectively compete in the new global workplace.  By converting to an eight-period day, delivering academic curriculum through a career academy framework and creating small learning communities, this new model is providing more options for our high school students. 

            The Career Experience Opportunity internship program serves as an opportunity to engage business and community leaders to expand learning through internships that connect to career academies.  During their junior or senior year, students can apply their academic foundations in real world settings.

            Organizations interested in providing internships should contact the Office of Community Services at 305-995-3050 or login to the Community Portal at www2.dadeschools.net/community.

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STANDARDIZED TESTING

            The achievement and progress of students in Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) are measured each year with the help of district, state and national standardized tests.  Some of the major tests are listed below.

            The FCAT Sunshine State Standards (SSS) test, designed to assess students’ proficiency on Florida’s SSS benchmarks, will be administered in March 2009.  The FCAT SSS measures students’ reading and mathematics skills in third through 10th grades and science skills in grades 5, 8 and 11.

             Tenth-grade students must earn passing scores on the Grade 10 FCAT SSS reading and mathematics tests to meet the requirements for a standard high school diploma.  Students who do not earn passing scores on the applicable subjects of the Grade 10 FCAT SSS will have additional opportunities to pass the test October 2008, March 2009 and June 2009, administered as the FCAT Retake. 

            The FCAT Writing + assesses students’ ability to organize and clearly express their thoughts in writing.  The FCAT Writing + will be administered to students in fourth, eighth and tenth grades in February 2009.

            The Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) is a nationally normed achievement test used to compare local students’ performance in priority study areas with the performance of students in the nation.  In March 2009, the SAT will be administered to first and second-grade students to assess reading and mathematics skills.

            The state’s Comprehensive English Language Learning Assessment (CELLA) is a four-skill English-language proficiency assessment that will be administered in March/April of 2009 to all students in grades K-12 classified as English Language Learners (ELL).  CELLA tests students’ ability to listen, read, write and speak English, and the results will provide information about students’ strengths and weaknesses in English and their overall progress over time.

            The grade 3 Reading Student Portfolio measures students’ proficiency in selected Sunshine State Standards in reading.  The portfolio will be administered to students in grade 3 throughout the second semester of the school year

            The District’s Interim Assessment tests will be given to students in selected schools in grades 3-11 in the fall, winter and/or spring. These tests, designed to measure Florida’s standards and benchmarks in reading, mathematics, and science will be used by teachers to identify students’ strengths and weaknesses to target instruction, and to monitor students’ progress.

            All kindergarten students are assessed for school readiness during the first 30 days of school as part of the state’s Florida Kindergarten Readiness Screener (FLKRS).  The FLKRS measures early literacy skills that are needed for success in kindergarten.

            Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) assesses the development of pre-reading and early reading skills. DIBELS will be administered to students in kindergarten through grade 3 and selected students in grades 4 and 5 in the fall, winter and spring.

            The Florida Oral Reading Fluency (FORF) assessment measures students’ reading skills. The FORF will be administered to selected students in grades 6-12 in the fall, winter and spring.

            Students also have the option of participating in the following programs offered by The College Board and ACT, Inc.:

•  The PSAT, offered by The College Board, will be administered to all students in grade 10 and to interested students in 11th grade in October 2008. The PSAT provides practice for the SAT and is also the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship program. In an attempt to build college readiness and to support more rigorous course selection among Florida’s high school students, the state of Florida has formed a partnership with The College Board to pay test fees for all 10th-grade students to participate in the PSAT. 

•   The SAT, offered by The College Board, and the ACT, offered by ACT, Inc., are optional college-entrance tests that students may take at scheduled times throughout the school year. Students taking the SAT or ACT can request that their scores be sent to the colleges or universities of their choice.

            Test results are made available in a timely fashion to students and their families. Results of district and state testing programs are sent home with students by the respective schools. Parents needing assistance in interpreting these scores should contact their children’s teachers or guidance counselors. 

               For more information about these and other tests, check the testing calendar on the district’s website at www.dadeschools.net. Additional information about each testing program is available at oada.dadeschools.net/saet/assessment.asp.

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STUDENT RECORDS AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

       The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and section 1002.22, Florida Statutes, protect the privacy of, and guarantee parents, guardians and students access to information contained in student educational records. The parent is guaranteed the right to challenge the accuracy of these records.

       These laws provide that without the prior consent of the parent, guardian or eligible student, a student's records may not be released except in accordance with the provisions listed in the above-cited laws. The laws provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement to the release of student records, which include, but are not limited to, school officials with a legitimate educational interest and lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders. To ensure compliance with these laws, the school system has published detailed instructions for maintaining and releasing student records. These instructions may be found in the Student Educational Records Manual, which is incorporated by reference in School Board Rule 6GX13-5B-1.07.

       Each school must provide to the parents, guardians or eligible students annual notice in writing of their right to inspect and review student records. Once a student reaches 18 years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education, the permission or consent required of, and the rights accorded to, the parents shall thereafter be required of and accorded to the student only, unless the student qualifies as a dependent under the law.

       Students should contact their school registrar if they wish to send transcripts to colleges or scholarship services.

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SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

       Miami-Dade County Public Schools will transport more than 62,000 students a day this school year, using a fleet of 1,600 buses on an estimated 1,370 school-bus routes. The service is for students who live more than two miles from their assigned schools, and for exceptional-education students.

       Before school begins, parents of all students eligible for bus transportation will receive a card from the school system's computer center identifying the student's bus stop and times of pickup and delivery.

       Parents interested in determining their child's transportation eligibility should contact their child's school for information.

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DISTRICT’S UNITED WAY EMPLOYEE, STUDENT CAMPAIGNS LEAD NATION

       Miami-Dade County Public Schools employees and students have contributed over $25 million to the United Way of Miami-Dade since partnering in 1974, and lead the nation in school system-run campaigns.

       For many students, participating in the campaign becomes a meaningful learning experience. This year’s United Way Campaigns run from September 29 to October 31.

       The United Way helps children and youth succeed in school and stay off the streets, ensures care and companionship for our elderly, gives families the tools they need to stay together, helps people stay healthy and well, promoting economic independence, and reaching out fast in the face of emergencies.

       For more information, please contact Diana Venturini, Director, Office of Community Services, at 305-995-1367.

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SCHOOL VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

       The School Volunteer Program currently has over 140,000 registered volunteers. School volunteers offer their services in many areas, including mentoring, tutoring, classroom assistants, field trip chaperones and much more. Volunteers have offered more than nine million hours of service, which translates to an estimated value of more than $1.7 billion.

       The School Volunteer Program online registration system offers schools a quicker way to register new volunteer applicants and monitor their clearances after the background check is completed. It offers great communication between the schools and the District’s School Volunteer Office.

       The background check that a volunteer receives is contingent upon the role of that volunteer. If a volunteer has chosen one of the following roles, they must get the fingerprint background check:

• Mentors
• Listeners/Oyentes
• Overnight Fieldtrip Chaperones
• Athletic/PE Assistants
• Certified Volunteers

       All other volunteer roles require the Level I background check, which consists of an electronic database search.

       The School Volunteer Program is growing and changing in exciting ways. To learn more about this program and how you can become involved, visit our website in the Office of Community Services at community.dadeschools.net and click on School Volunteer Program, or call 305-995-1439.

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WLRN PUBLIC TV, RADIO SERVE SOUTH FLORIDA COMMUNITY

       Public Broadcasting System (PBS) affiliate WLRN-TV Channel 17 and National Public Radio (NPR) affiliate WLRN-FM 91.3 are licensed to the Miami-Dade School Board.

       WLRN-TV Channel 17 airs more children’s programs than any other local broadcast station with more than 80 hours featured each week. Channel 17 is recognized as Florida’s leading Ready to Learn (RTL) station, combining quality PBS children’s television programs with a variety of community outreach efforts to help children build learning skills.

       RTL serves low-income families by providing free community workshops and resources for parents, teachers and childcare providers.  RTL also initiated One Picture Book, One Community, and an outreach project promoting early childhood education and literacy by inviting elementary schools to read the same book on the same day in their classrooms with a special celebrity reader.  In 2007, WLRN distributed 23,000 books to 90 Miami-Dade schools and 40 Broward schools.

       Channel 17 also broadcasts award-winning PBS documentaries, biographies and music programs, such as Nature, Nova, The American Experience and Great Performances. Viewers can watch popular public television weekly programs, including Antiques Roadshow, Globe Trekker, Charlie Rose and numerous other cooking and cultural enrichment shows.

       WLRN also produces several local programs, including the following monthly series: ArtStreet, which introduces South Florida to the arts explosion; WLRN Perspectives, which explores issues and trends that are impacting South Florida’s social, cultural and economic environment; Celebrate South Florida, which takes viewers on a journey of discovery about interesting people, places and events in our own backyard; and Class Act, which presents the exciting world of Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the positive impact it is making in the lives of children and  the community.

       WLRN- FM  91.3, Florida’s top-rated NPR station, serves a weekly audience of more than 320,000 from Palm Beach to Key West, providing programs such as Morning Edition, All Things Considered, A Prairie Home Companion and Car Talk.  WLRN Radio also broadcasts in HD radio digital format with two programming streams:  91.3-1 simulcasts the main channel programming, and 91.3-2, called “WLRN XTRA HD” , features “alternative news and talk” programming.  Both streams are available online at www.wlrn.org.  WLRN-FM91.3 also provides one of the country’s largest Radio Reading Services — a 24-hour, 7-days-a-week service to South Florida’s visually impaired residents.

       WLRN manages the district’s Video and Film Library, a lending library that loans videos supporting all phases of educational instruction throughout the school system.

       WLRN also operates and programs 20 Instructional Television (ITV) channels that provide students and teachers with a host of video choices, including video-on-demand service called, Teacher’s Choice.  For additional information, please call 305-995-1717.