Special situations

We know that life can be unpredictable, but it’s always best to try to plan ahead for even the most special of circumstances.

Illness at school

If your child becomes ill at school, you will be called at once. Please make sure that the school has a phone number where you can be reached during the day. If you are unable to come to the school, your child will be kept at the school until the regularly scheduled departure time. If your child becomes seriously ill, he or she may be taken to a hospital and you will be called immediately.

During flu season, it’s imperative that you continue to communicate openly with your child. If you notice that he or she is exhibiting flu-like symptoms or your child tells you that he or she feels ill, keep them home from school. Get more H1N1 updates and health tips.

Student Absence

If your child is going to be absent from school for any reason, contact your child’s school immediately to make them aware of the absence.

Missing the bus

Please create a plan of action with your child in the unlikely event he or she misses the bus. What do you expect your child to do when this occurs? Be clear with your child on what actions you want him or her to take. Once you are aware of the situation and you know your child’s whereabouts, inform the school at once, if your child will be late.

Buddy up

• We encourage the use of the “buddy” system for children going to, and coming home from school. Whether walking or riding to school, two young people are not as open to danger as one may be.

• Your child should pair with another young person (preferably if they are in the same grade and classroom) for the purpose of creating a safer walk or ride to and from school. Two people following all the rules of safety create a strong web of security.

• Buddies who ride school buses can remind each other of safety violations (being in the Danger Zone, etc.), as well as provide support for each other in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

• A buddy can also inform the bus driver or bus attendant if a child has fallen asleep and may miss his or her stop.