Parent Handbook Summary

Curriculum & Services:

• Aligned with NYS Alternate Assessment & CDOS standards 
• Uses Unique Learning System 
• Related services: Speech, OT, PT, Counseling, Vision/Hearing, O&M, Health, Assistive Tech 
• Total communication across classrooms 

Meals & Dining:

• Federally sponsored lunch program (peanut‑free) 
• After 9 AM arrival requires parent‑provided lunch 
• Specialized diets require documentation 
• Instructional lunch daily 

Health Guidelines:

• Keep home for fever, vomiting/diarrhea, rash, eye discharge, respiratory distress 
• Medications require doctor order + parent permission 
• Peanut‑free and latex‑restricted environment
• Updated physicals and immunizations required

Attendance:

• Daily attendance required by NY law
• Written excuse required for each absence
• Notify transportation provider when absent
• Sign in/out for late arrivals and early pickups

Transportation:

• Provided by home district 
• CSE determines special transportation needs 
• No food or choking‑hazard items on buses 
• Only approved adults with ID may pick up students 

Classroom Policies:

• Comfortable, labeled clothing; closed‑toe shoe
• Extra clothes encouraged; no scented products 
• No violent or unsafe personal items

Communication:

• Email preferred for non‑urgent needs 
• Urgent matters: call main office
• Parent visits welcome; must sign in
• Progress reports issued 4 times/year

Behavior & Safety:

• Positive Behavior Supports schoolwide
• Behavior Intervention Plans created as needed
• Restraints only as last resort in emergencies
• Same‑day parent notification for incidents
• Suspension possible for threats, harm, weapons, drugs, severe disruption 

Special Education Rights: 

• Parents may request CSE review any time
• No additional payments may be requested from families