Welcome

August 7, 2025

Dear Blue Jay Family,

As the principal of Oliver Elementary School- Home of the Blue Jays, it is my immense pleasure to welcome everyone back to the 2025-2026 school year.  We are super excited to start this new school year with the theme “Be Exceptional:  Level Up”.  “Be Exceptional:  Level Up” will take all of us working together.  As you are the first and most important educator in your child’s life, we would like to thank you for entrusting us and the opportunity to partner with you on this important aspect of your child’s journey.  Working together makes a difference in the lives of our children.  Through our extraordinary learning community of teachers, staff, students, families, and community stakeholders, we commit to achieving “excellence” every day.   

During the first few weeks of school, we will send home a copy of the school’s and district’s 2025-2026 student-parent handbook for you and your child to review, sign, and return documents.  Please take time to familiarize yourself and your child with the expectations and procedures of our school and district.  

We hope that you will find our website (https://www.myrcsd.org/) helpful and informative.  In addition, we utilize our Facebook page (Oliver Elementary Blue Jays), Class Dojo https://www.classdojo.com/ul/p/addKid?target=school&schoolID=54a0cbcf8895aff46066000d, Peach-jar- emailed flyers, and call outs to keep our parents/guardians up-to-date on important upcoming school events.  Please make sure your contact information is up-to-date in our system.  Studies show that parental involvement in a child’s education is one of the strongest indicators of student achievement.  We extend a warm Blue Jay welcome and hope you are able to attend as many school-sponsored events as possible.  Our faculty and staff are available to answer your questions or address any concerns. Please feel free to call the front office to make an appointment.  

Again, we look forward to an exciting and successful school year and working together in partnership with you. 

The Blue Jay Way!

Mission & Vision

The dedicated staff at Oliver is committed to providing students with a safe learning environment. Oliver students, faculty, and parents are asked to follow procedures to ensure that our students are safe, happy, and thriving both academically as well as socially.

We believe and expect that…

●     All students should be prepared to meet the challenges of a changing world.

●     All stakeholders have a shared responsibility for the education of our students.

●     All students should attend school daily and be on time.

●     All students can learn and should strive for excellence in all areas.

●     All students should be provided opportunities that promote their social, emotional, physical, and academic growth.

RCSD Theme: "New Beginnings: Warrior Era of Excellence"

Blue Jay Theme: "Be Exceptional: Level Up"

Vision: Inspire, Empower, and Educate with Excellence!

Mission: Our mission is to engage students in quality learning experiences that will prepare them for success in college, career, and life.

Faculty and Staff

Please see the Directory Page of the Website.

School Events

Please see the calendar page of the Website.

School Rules

Oliver Elementary School has implemented Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), which is an approach schools use to promote school safety and good behavior.  Our school community believes in conducting ourselves in the Blue Jay Way.  To help our students understand The Blue Jay Way expectations, we have implemented NEST expectations through character responsibilities such as: 

N (Noble), E (Engaged), S (Safe), and T (Taking Responsibility). 

Classroom

N- Adhere to voice, listen to your teacher, respect others, speak politely, respect classroom supplies, and teach each other

E- Face the front, pay attention, participate/ask questions, and follow directions

S- Hands and feet to yourself, use walking feet, and sit properly in your seat

T- Stay on task/be efficient, keep your space neat, give best effort, and bring personal supplies

Restroom

                N- Wait your turn, respect privacy, and dispose of all trash properly

                E- Be aware of time and pay attention

                S- Keep floors dry, use walking feet, wash your hands, and report issues to adults

                T- Use supplies wisely and GO, FLUSH, and WASH

Cafeteria

                N- Demonstrate lunchroom etiquette

                E- Pay attention to your surroundings

                S- Stand in line quietly

                T- Clean up afterwards

Hallways

N-    Be considerate of others- No talking in the hallway

E- Walk single file along the right side of the hallway

S- Walk without running, jumping, or shoving

T- No marking on hallway walls

Policies & Procedures

Dress Code 

All students should dress in good taste and in a non-offensive manner. In addition to the Russell County School District handbook dress code guidelines, we require that high heels not be worn as a safety precaution. We ask that you dress your child according to the weather.  Many times, a class will go outside when it is chilly. If the above conditions are not followed, the school may contact a parent/guardian regarding the dress. If warranted, a change of clothes will be requested as specified in the Russell County School District handbook. 

 

Absences 

Consistent attendance supports student success. If your child is to be absent from school for more than two consecutive days, we ask that you notify the office. Upon returning to school from any absence, an excuse stating the reason for the absence must be sent to the homeroom teacher within three days of the absence. Alabama State law requires us to have this verification.  

 

Attendance data is kept on each child. Students are required to provide appropriate documentation for all absences. Students with numerous absences or unexcused absences will be contacted by the Russell County Schools’ Attendance Officer and/or requested to participate in our Early Warning Program. Parent(s)/legal guardian(s) may submit up to ten (10) parent written excuses per year.  Excuses can be submitted electronically through the QR code on the Russell County School District’s website-home page, “RCSD Submit an Excuse for an Absence”.  Please refer to our Russell County District handbook for more attendance information. 

 

If your child is sick and must be absent from school for 3 or more days, you may contact the school office concerning picking up any make-up work. Please give the teacher 24 hours to gather together your child’s make-up work. For absences less than 3 days, teachers will provide work when the child returns. When a student returns from an excused absence, it is the student’s responsibility to make up any required work. Teachers are not required to provide this work unless the child is sick or the principal has approved the reason for the absence.  

 

Make Up Work   

Make-up work, which includes tests, will be administered to students whose absence was due to illness or other reasons coded as “​excused​” in the Alabama register. The student should be prepared to take missed tests and turn in assignments within three days after returning to school unless otherwise approved by the principal. It is the student’s responsibility to turn in all assignments and take any missed tests within the designated length of time. Students who have been suspended are allowed to make up missed assignments or tests for the period of suspension; however, students will be responsible for their missed assignments during their suspension. 

 

School Safety 

Your child’s safety is of utmost importance to Oliver’s faculty and staff. All parents, guardians, and visitors must enter through the double doors at the main office (at the front of the building). Upon arrival, press the bell on the gray box for general access. Someone will assist you. You must then report to the office, present identification, and obtain a visitor’s pass.  No exceptions will be made.  There are surveillance cameras on the campus to help maximize safety. No weapons, tobacco, smoking, and/or loitering are allowed on campus at any time. There should not be any trespassing on campus. 

 

School Time 

All students are to be dropped off and picked up in the designated areas. Supervision of our students is a top priority. For the students’ safety, please do​ not drop any students off earlier than 8:00 a.m.  Staff members are required to report to their designated supervision areas at 8:00 a.m. Parents that continually disregard this rule will be reported to the proper authorities. 

 

Tardy Policy 

It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to have the students arrive at school on time each day. School begins at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time). Please make sure your child arrives on time. Tardiness is harmful to the student’s educational progress and disruptive to the class. Should your child arrive after 8:30 EST, he/she must enter the school through the office and be checked in by a parent/guardian.  Excessive tardiness and early check-outs may result in a written letter of concern from the principal. 

 

Conferences 

All parents are welcome to visit our school. If you need to conference with a teacher, contact the school or the teacher at least 24 hours prior to the conference time. Your child’s education is very important to us, so keep communications open with your child’s teacher(s). Please speak with your child’s teacher first when a question arises. If you are not able to get in contact with your child’s teacher, please contact the front office. Always report to the school’s office upon entering the building to get a visitor’s pass. The office will inform the teacher you are here for a conference. We will not disrupt the instructional day by taking a teacher away from his/her classroom. 

 

Visiting 

All parents are welcome to visit our school, but you must come by the office first to get a visitor’s pass. All  visitors must enter through the front doors located by the office. We encourage parents to visit, but remember the teacher’s first responsibility is to educate the children​.  ​Always make arrangements with the classroom teacher or office prior to visiting. 

 

Check-out Procedure 

The school will check-out a student to parents, guardians, or persons listed on the student’s information form. Students shall be released only to individuals who have been identified by the parent or guardian. We request that appointments for the doctor, dentist, etc. be made after school hours if possible. Appointments that must be made during school hours must be accompanied by a doctor’s/dentist’s excuse​. ​Check outs will be recorded as unexcused until the note is presented. Students should not be checked out after 2:30 p.m. in order to avoid disruptions during preparation for the end of the day​. Please report to the office to sign-out and pick up your child. ​Picture ID is required each time a child is checked out​. Your child will be called from the classroom to meet you in the office. Please do not call the school and request your child to be called to the office prior to your arrival. Students will only​ ​be called upon your arrival. 

 

Candy, Gum, and Personal Items 

Students may not bring candy, gum, toys, cell phones or any similar items to school. The principal will hold any such items until the parent picks the items up. Personal possessions such as money, clothing, jewelry, etc. are the responsibility of the individual student and parent. If brought to school, they must be kept in their possession at all times. It is recommended that students not bring items of value to school to discourage the possibility of theft of these items. Oliver School will not be responsible for lost or stolen items. 

 

Celebrations  

Oliver adheres to the Child Nutrition Program guidelines regarding food in the classroom. Cupcakes and birthday cakes are not to be brought to school. Acceptable treats may be purchased in the cafeteria if you would like to mark a special occasion for your child’s classroom. Furthermore, balloons, flowers, etc. may not be brought to school for students. They are not allowed in the classroom or on the bus. 

 

Citizenship  

Good citizenship qualities are learned first in the home. Parents/guardians are their children’s first teachers. Just as the home and the school are partners, good grades and good behavior are partners. A good citizen is eager to learn, to work, and to play.  Being a good citizen means showing respect, kindness, and responsibility. Please review the “School Rules” page with your child and have ongoing conversations about the importance of following these guidelines. 

 

Discipline 

It is the policy of Oliver Elementary to involve parents/guardians as often as possible in discipline issues that may arise at school. We ask that you assist us in emphasizing to your child the importance of good behavior. When an issue warrants the principal’s participation, the classroom teacher completes a Discipline Referral Form and sends it to the office. 

 

Students suspended must not return to the campus (or any other school campus) during the school day or attend any school activities during the period of the suspension. The suspension will be explained in a letter and/or by phone call to the parent/guardian.  

 

Parent Concerns

Your concerns matter.  If you have concerns about your child and/or staff members, please reach out to us directly.  We will work together to resolve issues. We are committed to addressing your concerns promptly and professionally.  We appreciate your discretion in not posting identifiable information about students or staff regarding concerns. 

  

Parent Volunteers 

Parent volunteers are very important to our school. This group of willing parents provides supplemental aid to teachers, staff, and students. The services provided are very much appreciated and help to make Oliver Elementary a better place for our children to learn. The volunteer program provides a rewarding opportunity for parents/guardians. If you would like to participate as a volunteer, please contact your child’s teacher, any PTO officer, or school administrator. 

 

School-wide Communication

• Join our school on Class Dojo for notifications about upcoming events and school happenings. https://www.classdojo.com/ul/p/addKid?target=school&schoolID=54a0cbcf8895aff46066000d
• Follow our school on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/oliverelementarybluejays
• Monitor our website for calendar updates and school information
• Check your child’s weekly communication folder for paper notices, graded work, and teacher communications
• Keep current email and phone numbers on file for digital communications and phone calls

Care of School Property 

School loyalty and pride are displayed by keeping our building neat and clean. Students who intentionally deface or damage school equipment or property in any way will be required to clean the article and/or to pay for the damage done.  

 

Emergency Numbers 

In the office, we must have a record of parent telephone numbers and the telephone numbers of at least two local relatives, friends, or neighbors who can be contacted in case of an emergency. Please keep your information up-to-date in PowerSchool.  

 

Emergency Procedures 

Oliver Elementary is committed to the safety of your child. Emergency drills are conducted monthly in the school. Parents are requested not to check out students when the school is under an emergency warning. Standard emergency procedures are in place and will be followed. Please do not call the school during emergency warnings--the school telephone line must stay clear. Safety notifications will be communicated through Blackboard. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated as we aim to protect all students and staff. 

 

Field Trips 

A signed permission slip will be required prior to each field trip. Telephone calls and digital communications will not be accepted. ​The permission slip must be returned to the school no later than the day before the field trip. Misbehavior on a field trip may result in modified requirements for future participation in such activities. 

 

Homework/Class Work 

Homework is an integral part of the instructional program. It may consist of such activities as make-up work, meaningful projects, collecting materials for classroom projects, listening to or viewing suggested radio and television programs or completing work begun in the classroom. Some purposes of homework are to practice skills/standards worked on in the classroom, stimulate independent study habits, to develop responsibility/self-direction, and to reinforce school learning. It is the student’s responsibility to see that homework assignments are handed in or are ready to be checked at the time requested by the teacher.  Homework is most often an immediate need that reinforces a skill learned that day or prepares students for the next day’s lesson. Homework is also a two-way communication between home and school.  Use the homework assignments as an opportunity to communicate with teachers.  Feel free to jot notes or circle areas where your child needs extra support. All students will abide by this policy unless it is otherwise specified. The average of the homework assignments is 10% of the overall grade as specified in the Russell County School District handbook. 

 

Lost and Found 

A student’s personal possessions should be labeled very plainly with his/her name. This is especially important for items of clothing such as coats and jackets. The custodian maintains a lost and found box in the school gymnasium. It is important that students assume responsibility for personal belongings, textbooks, and other school property. In May, all unclaimed items will be dispersed to charitable organizations. If your child loses an item, please notify their teacher. 

 

Child Nutrition Program 

All students will receive breakfast and lunch during the 2025-2026 school year at no cost to parents/guardians.  This is for all students regardless of income level. 

 

Medication 

If students need medication, please adhere to the following rules: 

1. Doctor and parent signatures are required on the physician/parent authorization form. The form can be found on the Russell County School District’s website under the “Department” tab-Health Services.  
2. Medication must be in the original pharmacist's bottle with the child’s name. 
3. Written instructions as to dosage and directions of the administration of the medication should be on the physician/parent authorization form. 
4. Measuring utensils should be provided, if needed. 
5. A parent or guardian should deliver all medicine to the school nurse.  
6. If your child is to take ½ a tablet, the tablet must be broken prior to leaving it in the nurse’s office. 
7. The first dose of all medications or the first dose after a change in the dosage of medication should be administered at home. 
8. Students should not bring controlled substances to school. No medication is allowed in the classroom. No aspirin, Tylenol, or prescription drugs will be given to your child unless the medicine is sent from home with the completed physician/parent authorization form. 

Progress Reports/Report Cards 

Report cards are issued every nine weeks with a progress report scheduled midway in the quarter. See district and school calendars for dates.  Students will be responsible for delivering these documents to their parents/guardians. 1st-5th graders' grades can also be viewed through the parent portal in PowerSchool. Information will be sent home with login information.  

 

Telephone 

Students will be allowed to use the office phone only in cases of emergency. Plans for after school need to be made prior to leaving home in the morning. Students are responsible for bringing their homework and class projects to school. Please do not call the school with messages for students unless it is an emergency. Failure to bring books, homework, or other material to school is not considered an emergency. In the event of illness, the nurse will contact parents/guardians. 

 

Cell Phone Policy

The Alabama Focus Act was signed into law in May 2025. This law prohibits the usage of cellular devices by students during the school day. The law requires these devices be powered off and stored away during instruction time. We do understand that in today’s society sometimes cell phones may be needed to communicate before or after school hours. However, during school hours the phone MUST remain off unless otherwise permitted. Please note that it is not the school or district’s responsibility to look for or investigate should a phone go missing or damaged. If a child brings a device to school, they are bringing it at their own risk. The school/district will not be responsible for any stolen, damaged, or missing devices.  If brought, a cell phone (to include bluetooth capable devices)  MUST remain in a child’s book bag and powered off unless otherwise permitted by the staff member. It will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to pick up the device from the school’s main office. 

 

Testing 

The Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) will be administered to all students in grades 2nd-5th in the spring of the school year. Dates will be announced prior to testing, but will be between March 16-April 24, 2026. Results of these tests will be sent home once the state clears them for public release. Other assessments will be administered to all students in grades K-5 throughout the school year (i.e. STAR and iReady). We know that our students are so much more than test scores. These assessments give us valuable insights into their progress and help us understand their strengths and areas for growth. We ask that you assist us in encouraging your child to approach tests as an opportunity to showcase their knowledge and skills. Please remind your child to do his/her best, answer questions to the best of his/her ability, and take pride in his/her hard work. 

During state testing students’ personal electronic devices must be left at home.  They are prohibited from the testing rooms per state requirements.  Please see the note from the state department about electronics and help us meet these requirements by ensuring your students leave all digital devices at home during the testing period. This may include phones, watches, pedometers, tablets, wireless headphones, etc.

 

Textbooks/Supplemental Readers 

Initial textbooks will be issued at no cost to parents/guardians. Students must take good care of these books. Lost or damaged textbooks and library books are to be paid for by the parent/guardian. If a student loses a textbook, the parent/guardian must pay the full replacement cost of the lost book. Another textbook cannot be issued to the student until payment is made for the lost/damaged book. Individual student book orders are expected to be approved by parents/guardians prior to the order being placed. Student selected reading material should be monitored by parents/guardians before being brought to school. 

 

Technology

Russell County School district is a one-to-one device district. Technology devices are utilized to enhance learning, but they supplement, not replace, high-quality teacher instruction.  Their use will be time-limited to maximize effectiveness. Each student will receive a school issued device. Students are responsible for using technology devices properly, intentional damage to devices and/or inappropriate use can result in disciplinary action. Please refer to the Russell County School District handbook for more information on the Technology Responsibility Use Policy. 

 

Withdrawal 

In case of withdrawal, parents should give a minimum of 24-hour notice for the school to properly prepare the necessary reports.  Contact the secretary to get the withdrawal form. Email the completed form to the secretary. Return school items (Chromebooks/i-Pads, textbooks, library books, workbooks). Reports and records will be transferred to the respective enrolling school upon request.

General Transportation

In order to protect instructional time, students must bring notes for bus changes to the office before the beginning of classes. All ​transportation changes must be made in writing. A note should be sent in with the child, however, an email can be sent to your child’s teacher and our secretary. Call the office to confirm receipt of the note. No transportation changes may be made after 2:30pm.

Car Rider Transportation

As a safety precaution, parents must remain inside their vehicle and a staff member will walk your child to the car. We begin our dismissal with Pre-K from 2:45-3:00 p.m. and the remaining of our students dismiss at 3:15 p.m. We ask that drivers place a car tag (given by the school) with their child(ren)’s name(s) on it in their vehicle's front window. Do not pull out of the line to pass another vehicle, as we will have people crossing.  Thank you for your patience and your partnership in ensuring a safe drop off for all of our Blue Jay learners.

Morning Drop Off (8:00-8:30 EST):

Students may enter campus at 8:00 AM EST. All students should be in the classroom by 8:30. Breakfast is served in the morning from 8:00-8:20, so students wishing to eat should arrive before 8:15. 

1. Have students unload on the right side of the vehicle
2. Have students prepared to exit the vehicle as soon as you reach the unloading zone (i.e. backpacks, etc.)

Afternoon Departure (3:15 ET)

Departure begins at 3:15 PM EST. Car riders are dismissed first and should be picked up in the car line in front of the school. All car riders should be picked up by 3:20. Students that are not picked up by 3:30 p.m. EST will be sent to Extended Day, and a fee will apply.  Bus riders will be escorted to the buses by faculty or staff.

1. Pre-k Parents should enter the west (side) gate between 2:45-3:00. If you arrive after, you will need to enter the regular car line. If you have older students to pick up, you will pick up your pre-k student, exit campus, and circle around to the regular car line.
2. K-5th Parents-- Should enter via the normal car rider entrance. But the line will wait in the car lane BELOW the crosswalk to allow the pre-k parents to pick up students. K-5 dismissal begins at 3:15.
3. We run two lanes of car line pick-ups, so please watch carefully for pedestrians as you pull forward.

Extended Day Program

Our school offers after-school care with a fee-based Extended Day program. The program will begin on August 7, 2025-May 20, 2026. The evening hours are from 3:30-6:00 p.m. EST.  The fee is $40 per week for the first child and $30 for each additional child.  Please contact our Extended Day Director for more information.  

School Bus Transportation 

Transportation to and from school is a privilege. It is our goal to get students to and from school in the safest, most efficient manner possible. It is our expectation that all students will adhere to bus rules and policies for everyone’s safety. Please refer to the Russell County School District handbook for a complete listing of bus rules. Misconduct on the bus can result in the student losing bus privileges. Principals are authorized to suspend bus privileges depending on the severity and frequency of a student’s misbehavior. When students lose their bus privileges, the parents assume the responsibility for transportation to and from school.  

Bus Passes/ Transportation Notes 

Students are not to board an unassigned bus. Parents/guardians must request a bus pass at least 24 hours in advance from the school and the school must coordinate bus passes with the Transportation Department. Therefore, same day passes will not be granted. 

Bus Transportation Guidelines and Rules: 

1. Be at the appointed stop five minutes before the scheduled time
2. Students may only enter and exit the bus at their assigned stop
3. Remain seated at all times
4. Do not make excessive noise 
5. No eating, drinking, or candy 
6. Cooperate with the driver
7. All school rules apply to bus transportation (See Russell County District handbook)
8. The driver may assign seats 
9. Only school personnel and students may enter the bus (Specifically in Alabama, unauthorized entry onto a school bus is a Class “A” misdemeanor.  If you have a bus concern, please contact the school.)

Bus Transportation Expectations: 

1. Be ready at the stop 
2. Be there to deliver and meet your kindergarten student ( A parent/guardian must be visible for kindergarten students to be dropped off.  If not, the kindergarten student will be transported back to the school to be picked up.) 
3. Please do not put a sick child on the bus
4. Be sure that the driver has current address and emergency contact information

Physical Education Policies & Procedures

We are very excited about teaching your child physical education (p.e.) this year. Please take time to review our class rules and policies with your child. For everyone’s safety, it is crucial that all students understand and follow p.e. rules. 

Thank you, Coach Ricks & Ray-Fortenberry

Physical Education Rules: 

• Athletic shoes must be worn for physical education  (Shoes not covering the entire foot, shoes with heels, flip flops, sandals, and cowboy boots are not proper footwear for p.e. Shoes must have laces, straps, or adjustable closures to prevent them from coming off during activities. Students with inappropriate shoes will be given an alternative assignment.) 
• Always follow directions 
• Respect other students, teachers, visitors, and p.e. equipment 
• Keep your hands and feet to yourself 
• No eating or chewing allowed (For safety reasons, keep your mouth empty during p.e.) 
• When the whistle blows: Stop, Look, and Listen 
• Girls must wear shorts under dresses and skirts
• Please leave all personal things in the classroom (purses, backpacks, pens, pencils, brushes, combs, toys, etc.) 
• Never leave the gymnasium (p.e.) without permission

Consequences: 

Students choosing not to follow the rules will receive the following consequences: 

• First Offense: Verbal Warning 
• Second Offense: Time Out 
• Third Offense: Letter/Phone Call Home 
• Fourth Offense: Office Referral 
• *In extreme cases, consequences 1-3 may be skipped and go straight to number 4. 

Grades: 

Each student’s physical education grade will be 80% participation and 20% test scores. 

 

Weather: 

Please make sure that your child dresses appropriately for the weather. Physical education classes could go outside any day that the weather permits. Students will not go outside when the temperatures are below 50 degrees. Also, when the weather is hot, you may send a clear bottle pre-filled with water.

 

Medical Information: 

If a child has been sick due to minor illness and does not need to participate, parents must write a note. The note will excuse the student for up to two days only. After two days the student must have a doctor’s excuse. The doctor’s excuse must state the limitations and the number of days the student is to be excused. Please send this note to the p.e. teacher. If your child has any condition that could interfere with regular activity participation such as asthma, allergies, diabetes, sickle cell, heart condition, seizures, allergic reactions to bees, wasps, fresh cut grass, etc., please notify the p.e. department in writing. A form is provided at the back of the printed handbook for your convenience.

Media Center Policies and Expectations

I am very excited to be your child’s library teacher again this year! Please review the media center expectations and policies with your child, so all students will have the best possible year in the Media Center. I can’t wait to teach your child literacy skills this year and help you to build their love of reading!

Thank you, Kelley Knoll

Expectations: 

• Follow directions quickly
• Walk carefully
• Whisper
• Raise your hand
• Be kind
• Take care of library materials

Book Check Out:

• Students will have opportunities to check out books from the media center at least every other week
• Books previously checked out should be returned before new books may be checked out
• Overdue books do not accrue fines
• Lost or damaged books must be paid for. The lost/damage fee per book is $15
• The number of books a student may check out at a time depends on the child’s grade
  • Pre-kindergarten-1^st- One book at a time
  • 2^nd- One book at the beginning  of the year, Two books as the year advances
  • 3^rd-5^th- Two books at a time until they reach their AR goal, then they may check out three
  • On occasion, students may check out more books for special assignments

Accelerated Reader:

• Kindergarten-fifth grade students have access to Accelerated Reader (AR)
• AR is an online program that allows students to take quizzes on books they have read (The tests will assess the student’s comprehension of the book. Students will earn points as they take successful tests. The points will earn them a chance to come to a quarterly reading celebration and to earn a weekly class trophy.)
• Students may take tests on books they have read at home and from the public library
• Each quarter if they reach their individual goals, they will earn a special celebration

Library Activities:

• Reading
• Information Literacy Skills
• STEAM Activities
• Two Book Fairs
• Read Across America Activities
• Monthly Reading Logs with Prizes
• Readers of the Week
• Monthly MyOn Reader Challenges

Declaration of Independence from Bullying

We, the students at Oliver Elementary School

In order to grow to be our best selves

And to shape a future free of abuse, 

Declare our independence from bullying by saying “NO!!”

To bullying in our school!

Student Creed 

I will do my best to make this a great day. I will appreciate. I will cooperate. I will do unto others as I would have them do unto me. I think I can. I think I can. I know I can because I am somebody! I ​am somebody! My parents love me, my teachers love me, and above all, I love myself because I am somebody!

RCSD Bullying Report Form

In an effort to minimize antisocial behaviors in the school environment, the RCBOE has created a process whereby a student, parent, guardian, or bystander may report instances of bullying to the school administrator for further review and investigation. To report bullying, complete this form and it will be reported to the school. All reported incidents of bullying may be investigated, and when necessary, school administrators apply appropriate disciplinary consequences.

It is important to distinguish bullying from other unkind, mean and harmful behavior. Calling someone a name or pushing someone once, being rude or having an argument with someone is not bullying. Of course, these behaviors should be addressed but may have different consequences and interventions, which is why the distinction is critical. To be defined as bullying, all three components must be present: (1) repeated actions or threats, (2) a power imbalance and (3) intention to cause harm. If bullying is identified correctly, there are various ways to address it.

Intimidation is a threat or other action that is intended to cause fear or apprehension in a student, especially for the purpose of coercing or deterring the student from participating in or taking advantage of any school program, benefit, activity or opportunity for which the student is or would be eligible.

Bullying is a continuous pattern of intentional behavior that takes place on school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored function including, but not limited to, cyberbullying or written, electronic, verbal, or physical actions that are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any characteristic of a student, or by the association of a student with an individual who has a particular characteristic. 

For more information on the district’s policy on bullying, please refer to “Appendix V: Bullying” of the Russell County Student Academic Plan and Statement of Responsibilities.

This form can be completed online by  going to this link.

 

School Wide Title 1 Program

What is Title I?

It’s a federal program to help students in our nation’s schools. Title I is about giving all children a chance. Some children may not have all the advantages other students have. That’s where Title I comes in. Its goal is to help all children get a good education. Schools with 40% or more of children from low-income families qualify for school wide Title I programs. A good school wide program can lead to a better school. The program is designed to help all students reach the standards, challenge students to be the best they can be, and prepare students for the complex world of today and tomorrow. 

 

What are the benefits of a Title 1 Program?

Improved Programs 

• Services to help students, such as counseling or tutoring
• Teachers and other school staff 
• Resources, such as computers and workbooks 
• Variety in learning – problem solving, group activities, and skills workshops 

Parent Involvement 

School wide programs count on parent support. All parents are invited to help plan and take part in their school’s program. Parents also benefit from the special services and programs the school provides. 

A Sense of Excitement 

Improved school programs can boost school spirit. Students become more excited about learning and that helps teachers and other school staff with their jobs. 

Equal Treatment 

It is not necessary to pull students from class to receive Title I services, although students may be pulled as needed. They are less likely to feel singled out because the whole school is receiving the services. 

More Ways to Use Resources 

A school wide program has more freedom in how it can use resources. For example, Title I funds may be combined with other sources of money to help pay for new programs. 

Attention to Thinking Skills 

• Find ways to use skills in real-life situations 
• Learn through hands-on projects and experiments 

The Title I Program needs you to help: 

• Determine program goals 
• Plan and carry out programs 
• Evaluate programs 
• Work with your child at home and even in school, as a volunteer 

The annual Title I meeting is the place to start and you’re invited! It’s the perfect time to: 

• Learn more about Title I 
• Learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a Title I parent 
• Learn more about parenting skills and workshops 
• Meet other parents and teachers

Parent & Family Engagement

Describe how the school will convene an annual meeting to inform parents of the school's participation in Title I and explain Title I requirements, including the 1% set-aside, and the right of parents involved. (Sec. 1116(c)(1))

Oliver Elementary conducts an annual School/Community Title I meeting. The meeting is held in August in conjunction with Open House, and is normally scheduled in the evening when most parents are able to attend.  The purpose of this meeting is to inform parents about the Continuous Improvement Plan (CIP), as well as the requirements and offerings of the Title I Program. A presentation displaying the key elements of the CIP, as well as an overview of how our school is eligible to participate in Title I; the Title I Budget and the 1% set-aside; and the parents' right to be involved in the development of the CIP and School-Parent Compact is explained. In addition to the school's curriculum, student assessments, and student expectations for success being communicated, the following are also discussed: parents' right to be involved in decisions regarding their child's education, volunteer opportunities, and how to access the Parents’ Right to Know form. Additionally, the Continuous Improvement Plan can be located on our school’s website and in our Required Plans located in the Parents’ Resource Center (front office).  The Student Handbook, which includes  the Parental Involvement Plan and School-Parent Compact, will be distributed at the beginning of the school year . ​ 

Describe: 1) How there will be a flexible number and format of parent meetings offered, such as meetings in the morning or evening, and may provide, with funds provided under this part, transportation, child care, or home visits, as such services relate to parental involvement; 2) How parents will be involved in the planning, review and improvement of the Title I Program (Note: State the school's process for how all Title I parents have the opportunity for involvement in decision-making.); and 3) How funds allocated for parent involvement are being used in the school. (Sec. 1116(c)(2)(3))

1)​ Parent attendance for the annual community meeting is encouraged along with other meetings that are held. Various methods of communication are used to inform parents of the meetings including flyers, telephone calls, letters, bulletin boards, social media and public postings. Title I meetings will be conducted to inform parents of school programs and needs. Parent workshops are offered to help support learning and discipline. In addition, parents are members of the district’s parent advisory that meets monthly. Meetings and workshops are held in the mornings and evenings allowing flexibility for parental attendance and advance notifications of many of the meetings are located in our student handbook. 

 2)​ Oliver Elementary has a Title I Parent Advisory Committee. This committee meets annually to decide how to spend the parent portion of the Title I budget. Parent representatives also attend annual CIP Committee work session meetings in which they actively participate in the review of the plan, as well as the decision-making process in regards to use of parent involvement funds. Parent Surveys are conducted annually, allowing parents an opportunity to be involved in planning by communicating their perceptions of the school's achievements, parental involvement initiatives, and suggestions for school improvement. Input from all parents is encouraged during meetings, and they are actively involved in the revision of the Parental Involvement Plan and the School Compact.  

3​) Oliver Elementary uses funds allocated for parental involvement to cover expenses for parent contact & communication materials, parenting workshops, and events and activities to support the parenting program. The school also uses its portion of the LEA reservation funds to enhance parental support and training of parents of at-risk students. These funds may be used to secure guest speakers to address parents at workshops and training, as well as supplemental training materials. 

Describe how the school provides parents of participating children timely information in a uniform format and, to the extent practicable in a language they can understand, about programs under Title I, a description and explanation of the curriculum in use, forms of academic assessments, and achievement expectations used, and, if requested by parents, opportunities for regular meetings to formulate suggestions and participate as appropriate in decisions related to the education of their children. (Sec. 1116(c)(4)(A)(B)(C))  

Oliver Elementary promotes and supports parental involvement. Along with the Title I meetings, annual Open House, Parent Night, and scheduled PTO meetings, the school develops and distributes a parent/student handbook to provide practical information about the school and its programs. The handbook provides clear information regarding course and behavior expectations, school activities, student services, and optional programs during parenting day sessions. During Open House and Parent Night, parents visit their child's classroom and receive more information from the teacher concerning the classroom. The school provides valuable information to parents via multiple methods, such as emails, paper, text, weekly communication foldes, social media, and Class Dojo. The services of our district’s Parental Involvement Specialist are enlisted to establish programs that are helpful to parents. The school's assigned English Learner (EL) chairperson attends meetings and schedules appointments with parents of EL students to ensure understanding of their rights to involvement, as well as to ensure understanding of the extent of their child's participation in and performance on assessments. Trans Act is available to translate school correspondence to be sure parents are informed of school happenings in their native language. Translated documents are available on our district’s website. 

Describe how parents, the school staff, and students share responsibility for improved student academic achievement for participating students (How the School-Parent Compact is jointly developed with Title I parents; how it is used, reviewed, and updated). (Sec.1116(d)) 

Oliver Elementary uses the School-Parent Compact that has been developed to build and foster a school-parent partnership to help all children meet the state's high standards. The compact is reviewed annually by the Advisory Committee, which includes parents, and is revised as needed to meet grade level and school needs in sharing responsibility for improved student academic achievement. The compact will remain in the classroom to be used by the teacher in working with parents and students. It is the desire of our school that all of these individuals share the responsibility for improved student achievement, as well as a shared commitment to the means by which the school and parents will build and develop a partnership to help all students meet or exceed proficiency on state academic content standards.  

Describe procedures to allow parents to submit comments of dissatisfaction with the Continuous Improvement Plan. (Sec. 1116(c)(5))  

Oliver Elementary makes every effort to ensure that parents are full partners in the decisions that affect both children and families. Parental concerns are handled with respect and consideration. The Parental Involvement Plan, which is included in the Student Handbook, is distributed to parents for review. After reviewing the plan, concerns and questions may be forwarded to the principal or committee members for consideration. The procedures to allow parents to submit comments of dissatisfaction with the Continuous Improvement Plan includes submitting a written document to the principal or the committee members through a letter or email.  In addition, Annual Parent Surveys also provide an opportunity for parents to submit comments of concerns. 

Describe how the school will build capacity for parental involvement including how parents will be encouraged to become equal partners in the education of their children? (See ESSA Sec. 1116, requirements for building capacity and parental and family engagement.) To ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, our school: Shall provide materials and training to help parents to work with their children to improve their children's achievement, such as literacy training and using technology, as appropriate, to foster parental involvement.​

Oliver Elementary conducts an annual Title I Parent Meeting in August each year, as well as Open House and Parent Night. Information concerning the school's Continuous Improvement Plan and Title I Plan is discussed. During the Open House and Parent Night sessions parents visit with individual classroom teachers. During the school term, parents may schedule conferences to discuss individual results. Parent workshops are conducted throughout the school year. Parents receive information on how to monitor their child's progress through various methods such as progress reports, report cards, online grading portal (PowerSchool), graded assignments, and standardized test reports. The school will provide parents with resources to use at home. These resources will vary from electronic programs, library books, parenting and academic help, reading logs, etc. 

Describe how the school will build capacity for parental involvement including how parents will be encouraged to become equal partners in the education of their children. (See ESSA Sec. 1116, requirements for building capacity in parental involvement.) To ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, our school: Shall educate teachers, office personnel, and other school staff, with the assistance of parents, in the value and utility of contributions of parents, and in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners, implement and coordinate parent programs, and build ties between parents and the school. 

Oliver Elementary School will provide professional development and resources to educate and empower our faculty/staff to promote effective communication with our parents. Training will also be conducted to build awareness and knowledge of our students/families’ backgrounds. The continual development of the staff to recognize the value and utility of contributions of parents is accomplished through faculty meetings and grade level meetings.

Describe how the school will build capacity for parental involvement including how parents will be encouraged to become equal partners in the education of their children. (See ESSA Sec 1116, requirements for building capacity in parental involvement.) To ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, our school: Shall to the extent feasible and appropriate, coordinate and integrate parent involvement programs and activities with other federal programs, and conduct other activities, such as parent resource centers, that encourage and support parents in more fully participating in the education of their children.  

Parent representative(s) are involved in developing the Parental Involvement Plan and the Continuous Improvement Plan. The school will also encourage parents to participate in the education of their children by providing a welcome letter to parents with opportunities for involvement identified, such as reading to their child’s class, volunteering in the classroom, helping in the media center or gym, etc.

The school also provides a resource center, located in the front office, which is accessible to parents and family members. Information and resource materials are provided in the resource center. The school will link parents to programs and resources within the community that provide family support services such as:  Helping Families Initiative, East Alabama Mental Health, and 211 (access to community resources). 

Describe how the school will build capacity for parental involvement including how parents will be encouraged to become equal partners in the education of their children. (See ESSA Sec. 1116, requirements for building capacity in parental involvement.) To ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, our school: Shall provide such other reasonable support for parental involvement activities as parents may request.

Oliver Elementary makes every effort to maintain an atmosphere that allows parents to feel comfortable when addressing their concerns.  Parents have access to communicate with teachers through notes, emails, phone calls, etc.  Parents are encouraged to set up conferences with teachers to discuss their child’s progress. Additionally, parents may contact the school for assistance with non-educational needs. Parents’ surveys are conducted annually, so that any issues, concerns, or suggestions may be communicated and addressed. In teacher’s welcome letters they will provide invitations to visit their classrooms, ways to volunteer during the school year and how to set up conferences with the teacher.

Parents are encouraged to visit the school/classrooms as the need arises. The administrative staff is available to help. Teachers will assign homework that will encourage students to discuss and interact with their parents about what they are learning in class. Oliver Elementary constantly communicates with the parents, keeping them informed of scheduled events. This is accomplished through notices sent home with students, the school website, social media, phone calls, the use of local communication systems, and translated letters are available for parents who speak other languages.  

Describe how the school will ensure the provision for participation of parents and family members (including parents and family members who have limited English proficiency, parents and family members with disabilities, and parents and family members of migratory children), including providing information and school reports required under section 1111 in a format and, to the extent practicable, in a language such parents understand. (See ESSA Sec. 1117(f))  

Oliver Elementary has an available English Learner (EL) chairperson and support team who regularly communicates with parents to inform them of daily events and activities. Translation services are available as needed, both written and orally. The EL support team places phone calls to parents to update them on their child's progress and relays any messages or concerns of the parents to the classroom teacher. Individual student assessment results will be explained to parents by the EL chairperson/support team during parent conferences. Parents will then be able to ask any questions about the tests they do not understand. Teachers will be trained in test interpretation so they can answer any questions asked by parents. The school principal and the counselor are also available to discuss the tests and other academic concerns with parents. Each year group test results are discussed during Parent Night at the beginning of the year. Follow-up individual conferences with parents are held with the EL chairperson/support team. The support teams are available to the parents based on students’ needs (i.e. EL, IEP, or 504 chairperson). Our school and district websites are ADA compliant. Oliver strives to maintain a facility that is accessible to all people, to include handicapped accessibilities.

Handbook Agreement

Please see the printed copy of the handbook to sign the agreement and return it to the school. Thank you

Parents Right-to-Know

(Teacher Qualifications • Not-Highly-Qualified Status)

Title I Section 1111 (h)(6)(6) PARENTS RIGHT-TO-KNOW-

(A) QUALIFICATIONS- At the beginning of each school year, a local educational agency that receives funds under this part shall notify the parents of each student attending any school receiving funds under this part that the parents may request, and the agency will provide the parents on request (and in a timely manner), information regarding the professional qualifications of the student’s classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, the following:

(i) Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.

(ii) Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.

(iii) The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.

(iv) Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

(B) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION- In addition to the information that parents may request under subparagraph (A), a school that receives funds under this part shall provide to each individual parent—

(i) Information on the level of achievement of the parent’s child in each of the State academic assessments as required under this part; and

(ii) Timely notice that the parent’s child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who is not highly qualified.

(C) FORMAT- The notice and information provided to parents under this paragraph shall be in an understandable and uniform format and, to the extent practicable, provided in a language that the parents can understand.

 

July 2025  

Dear Parents:

We are pleased to notify you that in accordance with the Every Child Succeed Act of 2015, you have the right to request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teacher. Specifically, you may request the following:

• Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.
• Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria has been waived.
• The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.
• Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

If you would like to receive this information, please ask the school office for the right to know form or see your paper copy of the student handbook. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact the federal programs office https://www.myrcsd.org/departments/federal-programsesl  and they will be happy to assist you.

 

School-Parent Compact

Oliver Elementary School and the parents of the students participating in activities, services, and programs funded by Title I, Part A of the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA) (participating children), agree that this compact outlines how parents, school staff, and students will share the responsibility for improved student academic achievement and the means by which we will build and develop a partnership that will help children achieve the State’s high standards. This compact is in effect during the 2025-2026 school year​.  

We, as​ Oliver Elementary School, will support our student’s learning in the following ways:

1. Provide high-quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive and effective learning environment that enables the participating children to exceed the state’s student academic achievement standards as follows: 
   • Maintaining a faculty & staff of highly qualified and dedicated individuals
   • Collaborating on student and curriculum issues
   • Participating in staff development & providing mentoring programs to support new teachers
   • Conducting administrative observations and monitoring throughout the year
2. Hold parent-teacher conferences at least annually in elementary schools:
   • Teachers will schedule an annual conference during their planning period, on e-learning days, or before/after school
   • Additional conferences may be initiated by school faculty, parents, or students
3. Provide parents with frequent reports on their children’s progress:
   • Progress reports are issued at mid-point of each 9-week grading period
   • Report cards are distributed quarterly, according to the district’s calendar
   • Students’ work will be sent home the first school day of the week throughout the year 
   • Students’ grades may be accessed by parents using the PowerSchool Home Program (Grades 1st–5^th)
   • Teachers will update grades at least weekly
   • Testing data will be sent home to include Student Reading Individualized Plans (SRIPS), as needed 
4. Provide parents reasonable access to staff:​ 
   • Teachers are available during work hours (planning period or after dismissal) by appointment
   • Parents have access to communicate with teachers through notes, emails, phone calls, conferences, etc.
5. Provide parents opportunities to volunteer, participate, and observe  in their child’s class and throughout the school ​ as follows: 
   • Parents are welcome to schedule visits to the school to observe and/or participate in activities  
   • Parents should enter through the front doors and obtain a visitor’s pass from the office prior to going to the classroom
   • We have multiple school-wide volunteer opportunities. (Contact your child’s teacher, if interested)
6. Ensure regular two-way, meaningful communication between parents and school staff  in a language that parents can understand, to the extent practicable: 
   • Translation programs will be used to present written notices in native language 
   • Parent/teacher conferences will be held with a translator through Language Link, if needed

We, as parents, will support our children’s learning in the following ways: 

1. Having my child at school on time daily to meet attendance expectations 
2. Ensuring my child follows all rules and regulations set by the school, district, and state, so their behavior does not impede the learning and/or safety of others 
3. Being an active participant in my child’s education (volunteering, communicating, staying informed, attending meetings/events, checking and signing folders, homework, etc.)

I, as a Blue Jay Student, will: 

1. Participate, ask questions, and do my best on all assignments (take home and return school communication folder)
2. Know and follow the rules and take responsibility
3. Show respect and kindness to all students and adults