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In an effort to improve communications the district has created this format to provide people with a place to get answers to questions and to address rumors and inaccurate information that sometimes circulate through the community. NOT ALL QUESTIONS WILL BE ANSWERED. And, it may take some time to get answers to certain questions. For individual or private concerns, you should contact the school or district office by phone. We will not answer comments about specific individuals by name. However, for issues that we think impact a number of people in the community, we will provide a response on this page for all to see. Please submit your comments and/or questions in the white box on the right. Questions will be posted on this page for a couple of days, then moved to an archive page or deleted. Questions are e-mailed to the district's public information office. The PI Officer determines who could best answer the question and directs the question to that person. Once, the PIO receives the answer it is posted. Please check the archives on the right to see if a question on your topic has already been answered or to search the entire grapevine for previously asked questions, enter a keyword/topic below:
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Posted on August 30, 2010 Since schedules are not being sent out this year, is it safe to assume locker assignments and combinations won't be sent either, so the kids can't bring in their supplies during the walk-thrus?
Posted on August 30, 2010
Posted on August 30, 2010 Why are the HS Walkthrough's scheduled so early in the day? This makes it difficult for working parents to attend or bring their child.
Posted on August 30, 2010 Why did I get a letter telling me the school wouldn't send me a letter with my son's schedule on it? It seems like the same letter could have just had the schedule in it. By sending the letter saying we weren't getting letters didn't it cost the same amount?
Posted on August 30, 2010 What do Votech students do on the first day of school? How do we get to the Votech center? Does it start the same day as our school starts?
Posted on August 30, 2010 When Will Koda and Gowana get their schedules/homeroom/locker and combinations? I have heard Acadia has already gotten some of this information
Before the question is asked why is Acadia different...they are three different middle schools and that is a building level decision.
Posted on August 30, 2010 Will the 6th grade students from Koda be able to put their stuff in the lockers during the school walk through?
Posted on August 30, 2010 My daughter was part of the friendship volleyball league last year and she had heard that they were not having it this year, is this true? Why do the High School counselors seem to lack interest in straightening out schedules BEFORE school starts? I know of a number of students who have a complicated course selection, but that shouldn't make a difference when it comes to scheduling. If my son or daughter wants to take a class, who's to say they can't simply because it doesn't "fit" into their schedule. This greatly disturbs me.
Posted on August 30, 2010 My daughter was part of the friendship volleyball league last year and she had heard that they were not having it this year, is this true?
Posted on August 30, 2010 Multiple Shen football players and cheerleaders were just caught at a party by the cops, how will this be handled? The host of the party was a Shen cheerleader. These kids can't get away with this. They are held to a higher standard than others and deserve to be prosecuted.
Posted on August 30, 2010 In the past, the NYS test scores have been used heavily to assess how/where a student is placed and the opportunities available to them, including but not limited to the placement in classes and on teams, potential for advanced and/or accelerated classes, etc. With such a discrepancy between the scores last year and this year, how will the district now use the scores? For example, if a child has received a "3" by this years' standards but would have received a "4" by last years' standards, how is the district taking this into account when assessing student placement and academic opportunities? Same question applies to a "2" this year that otherwise would have been considered a "3".
Posted on August 30, 2010
Posted on August 30, 2010 My son took his earth science regents yesterday, and said it was much harder then the June one, what happens if he fails it again?
Posted on August 30, 2010 Is it true that fifth grade won't be going to Camp Chingachgook overnight this year?
Posted on August 30, 2010 I recently heard news thata substitute teacher at the High School was arrested for planning to meet up with two teen girls? Any truth behind this??
A substitute was arrested and was immediately removed from the Shenendehowa substitute list.
Posted on August 30, 2010 When can we find out what our scores were on the august regents?
Posted on August 30, 2010 Did you decide to adopt the electronic device policy used in trial at HSE towards the end of last year for the upcoming school year?
Posted on August 30, 2010 Can someone please explain to the average taxpayer what the liability will be (SHEN's part) for the bus accident in Cooperstown? We know that there is insurance to cover a situation such as this. However, with any claim that means that policy premiums increase and that would then pass along to us the taxpayers! Why does the school district put itself into such potential risk (by sub contracting out to places such as the YMCA) and does the BOE have to give some type of approval to the additional wear and tear on items that are covered in our school taxes? Are these types of items covered at BOE meetings?
Posted on August 30, 2010 Acadia's supply list specifically state no locker shelves as they tend to jam the lockers. On 8/5, you replied that they are allowed . Can that be clarified? Thanks!
Posted on August 30, 2010 Why were the Acadia tennis courts removed and do you plan on rebuilding them?
Posted on August 30, 2010 Is it true that the dress code is being modified so hoodies aren't allowed?
Posted on August 30, 2010 When is picture day at high school east? Usually they are taken on the second and third day, but the third day is a week after the second one.
Posted on August 30, 2010 I am very concerned about the halls at KODA middle school. Last year my daughter was practically run over by students getting to and from classes (with many bruises to prove it). Is there someone to speak to regarding this?
Posted on August 30, 2010 What are the limits for class size at the elementary grade levels? Is there a state law about teacher-student ratio?
Posted on August 30, 2010 No lunch was scheduled for my high school child - who can I contact to correct this schedule problem. Thank you.
Posted on August 30, 2010 Is there an available listing for each school which lists the teachers for each grade? Thanks
Posted on August 30, 2010
Posted on August 30, 2010 Where can I find the sophomore supply list?
Posted on August 30, 2010 Are 9th graders allowed to carry backpacks during school?
Posted on August 30, 2010 It would be greatly appreciated if you could add www.shenlax.com to the athletics page, being that it's not up there yet. And they did win a sectional title this year.
Posted on August 30, 2010 Is it true not all elementary schools have a ski club?
Posted on August 9, 2010 Why are we starting school with only 2 days for the week and then having 2 days off? I understand the observance of the Jewish holiday. Why not start on the 13th and take 2 days away during winter break, which we don't need? I understand State Funding, did school officials look over the calendar and thought this was a good idea.
Posted on August 5, 2010 Can some one please explain to the average taxpayer what the liability will be (SHEN's part) for the bus accident in Cooperstown last week? We know that there is insurance to cover a situation such as this. However, with any claim that means that policy premiums increase and that would then pass along to us the taxpayers! Why does the school district put itself into such potential risk (by sub contracting out to places such as the YMCA) and does the BOE have to give some type of approval to the additional wear and tear on items that are covered in our school taxes? Are these types of items covered at BOE meetings?
Posted on August 5, 2010 Is it true that shelves will not be allowed in the Acadia lockers this year? With binders and textbooks for each class, it's difficult to store everything without the added space the shelves provide.
Posted on August 5, 2010 Is it true that from grades 10-12, your child will need to provide their own agendas/planners?
Posted on August 5, 2010 With this new website, I can't find where to get on the parent portal.
Posted on August 5, 2010 When will my son's 4th grade NYS test scores be posted on the portal?
Posted on August 5, 2010 Why are more positions for administrators being filled? In this time of economic crisis, wouldn't the money be better spent on hiring teachers?
Posted on August 5, 2010 Why is a church conducting their services on school grounds? I thought there was supposed to be a separation between church and state. Shen is a public school - not private. I don't understand. Thanks
Posted on August 5, 2010 Since January Regents might not be around this upcoming school year, what will happen for the students going in to extended geometry part II?
Posted on August 5, 2010 What is being done about the bus driver that was involved in the bus accident involving YMCA campers?
Posted on August 5, 2010 Will transportation information be sent to childcare centers and providers before the start of the school year?
Posted on August 5, 2010 My son has not received his AP grades yet, who can he contact for his grades?
Posted on August 5, 2010 I heard a rumor that members of the Guidance Dept did not come to HS graduation because of a labor issue. Is this true? I saw lots of teachers there. If it is true why were they there but the counselors not?
Posted on August 5, 2010 Why didn't the Class of 2010 participate in community service activities through Senior Give Back Day?
Posted on August 5, 2010 At Why are the 1st grade classes at Karigon so big for this coming year? Orenda's first grade classes are full and you are assigning kids from Orenda to Karigon even before school starts? That doesn't seem fair to either school, kids, teachers or families. Is this true?
Posted on August 5, 2010 The Shen Events calendar on the website has Parent Teacher Conferences for Elementary students listed as Monday and Tuesday, November 1st and 2nd. The printed school calendar has the conferences Thursday and Friday, Nov. 18th and 19th. Which is correct?
Posted on August 5, 2010 What day will graduation be for the class of 2011?
Posted on August 5, 2010 When do the letters come for you to now what team you are on?
Posted on June 23, 2010 Why are beach balls and things like that not allowed at graduation? I understand that noise makers are disruptive, but i do not see how a beach ball will decrease the "dignity" of the event. Graduation is a celebration and everyone is excited. The ceremony is long enough, why not just let us, the people who are graduating aka guests of honor, have a little fun. You only graduate high school once, why not have a little fun?
Posted on June 23, 2010 My son is graduating and has money left in his Paypams lunch account. How do I transfer the balance to a sibling or get a refund? Paypams says to contact the school.
Posted on June 23, 2010 I am a S.A.D.D club member and we were informed that there will not be in s.a.d.d next year can we please have help on anyone that can be our new leader?
Posted on June 23, 2010 When is the first day of school? Its very irritating to not be able to find this date anywhere on the website when some people are traveling in the summer.
Posted on June 18, 2010 Would the district consider eliminating winter break and ending school a week early? Most schools are sweltering (unless you are in the air conditioned offices).
Posted on June 18, 2010 Does the district have a policy with regard to teachers attending student graduation parties?
Posted on June 18, 2010 Did the budget that just passed include the expansion of the middle school foreign languages program to 2 years?
Posted on June 18, 2010 Where should a FOIL request to Shen be sent?
Posted on June 18, 2010 I am a junior taking CEIP for business next year and i was curious as to when we pick a career to volunteer at?
Posted on June 18, 2010 When a child attends a daycare outside the boundaries of the child's elementary school (home school), but within the boundaries of the other schools designated for that school, how is the busing handled. Does the child switch buses, or is there a special bus that takes kids outside the home school boundaries? Or is it handled in some other fashion. Please explain.
Posted on June 18, 2010 It seems a shame that the HS students taking June Exams in the afternoon are not afforded transportation to the school. They need to take the morning bus in and wait approximately 5 hours for the test. (Unless a parent does ot work and has a vehicle or can afford to take time off to transport). Why don't the buses departing school at 10 or 11 (after morning exams) pick up the kids going in for afternoon exams. They are en route anyway and need to return to the bus garage. It doesn't seem like it would cost more.
Posted on June 18, 2010 Do you have a review process planned for next school year for replacement of the English Language Arts series / textbooks used in the Shen elementary schools?
Posted on June 18, 2010 Why are kids allowed to miss school and go to Cooperstown with Clifton park baseball? Aren't those illegal absents?
Posted on June 18, 2010 Is it legal for a school bus to stop on a main, busy road to let another school bus out of the campus or a development? I saw this yesterday and I was curious.
Posted on June 18, 2010 I'm a junior and have NO idea what to do about my teacher recommendations. I know I will have to ask them in the beginning of next year, but what do I hand to them and what should I have already done before I ask them?
Posted on June 18, 2010 Why do we have to take gym all four years of high school?! Most other schools only have you take it for one year. It seems unfair that we lose study time to go take a class that most people just stand around in.
Posted on June 18, 2010 Is it true that there will only be two teams next fall for 6th grade?
Posted on June 18, 2010 I would like to know if applying the regents exam grades for math and science and making them a 5th quarter grade that is averaged in. is a NYS requirement or is this something that just Shen does?
Posted on June 18, 2010 Who is in charge of the “healthy snack policy” Is it by state, distinct, school or classroom. Is there a list of “approved snacks” and “restricted snacks”? I ask this because I have a child almost to the point of tear because the teacher told her she could not bring in granola bars anymore because the chocolate chips in them are not healthy. Basically my child is being told that their mom is wrong and the teacher knows best.
Posted on June 18, 2010 Will 6th grade be blocked next year or follow the 40 minute period?
Posted on June 18, 2010 What is the purpose of the Middle School half day November 5th next school year?
Posted on June 18, 2010 After we graduate will our student accounts on the school computers be erased?
Posted on June 1, 2010 My son just told me that he needed $20 for his graduation cap and gown!! What???!! I'm not too happy that I have to pay for something that he will obviously have to return. Why is this fee being imposed this year??!!! ARE YOU KIDDING??
Posted on June 1, 2010 Please tell me if it is true that a high school west student who misses a phys ed class with a doctor's excuse still has to make up those classes and if so why? Also is it true that "make up" classes consist of running laps around the track instead of regular class activities?
Posted on June 1, 2010 Will 6th grade be blocked next year or follow the 40 minute period?
Posted on June 1, 2010 Is it mandatory to have a principal's aide in every building?
Posted on June 1, 2010 How many registered voters are in the district?
Posted on June 1, 2010 Why don’t you teach Italian?
Posted on June 1, 2010 I heard that the School Resource Officer (SRO) is leaving Shenendehowa. Who is going to take his place in protecting our children? Is this part of the schools "massive budget cuts"? Can you cut two paper pushers instead?
Posted on June 1, 2010 I understand elementary students receive a letter if they have been absent (excused or unexcused) from school for more than 10 days. Is there a policy for elementary teachers and the number of allowed teacher absences? Are they able to roll their unused "days off" over to the next year? Consistency is important to young children and there seems to be more substitutes in the buildings lately.
Posted on June 1, 2010 Is the cogat test given to all students or is that the same as the quest test?
Posted on June 1, 2010 Will 9th graders in HSW be able to use cell phones and electronics in lunch periods and in the hallways like kids in HSE can?
Posted on June 1, 2010 What health education does Shenendehowa offer at the elementary level? If any, what topics are covered?
Posted on June 1, 2010 How was the broadcasting of the softball game paid for?
Posted on June 1, 2010 My son was recently beat-up off campus by a Shen student is there anyway I can get the administration involved?
Posted on June 1, 2010 I know for some this is a no brainer but I could really use an answer: Does the 15 mph rules still apply to campus AFTER school hours? Thank you.
Posted on June 1, 2010 What kind of diploma do students in Alt-Ed receive? Does it say on your college transcripts that you are in the program? If a student in Alt-Ed has a 95 average, do colleges look at that the same way as a regular high school student with a 95 average?
Posted on May 24, 2010 Why are the "Silly Bands" banned?
Posted on May 24, 2010 Is it true that when high school kids miss physical ed with a medical excuse that they must still make up the missed classes even though they had a Drs. note? If so why? Also is it true that the make up classes consist of running on the track as opposed to regular gym activities?
Posted on May 24, 2010 Why are there no more physical fitness assessments in gym for high schoolers?
Posted on May 13, 2010 I have two children in school and support their education, but school taxes are out of control. How do you expect people to keep paying more and more?
Posted on May 10, 2010 The parking lot at Shen West is crazy in the morning with cars darting in every direction. This didn't happen at the beginning of the year when the security guards did a wonderful job of traffic control. Now, none of the parents use the student drop-off spots but just pull up on the circle. Any chance the security staff can get parents to follow the drop-off rules again?
Posted on May 10, 2010 Do they ever fly the flag a 1/2 staff when a student or previous student has passed away, or is it just what the states dictates? Thanks.
Posted on May 10, 2010 Can you tell me how much of Shen lunches are frozen/processed vs. made from scratch - I just watched Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution and I was wondering about Shen's food. If we do use processed food can we change it?
Posted on May 10, 2010 Please answer the following questions in advance of the upcoming budget vote: 1. Are there regulations regarding what faculty members can/cannot say to students about the upcoming budget vote? 2. If so, who dictates such restrictions (the district, the state education dept?). Thank you for your answer.
Posted on May 10, 2010 What is the "leadership in gym class" award that the 5th graders are talking about?
Posted on May 10, 2010 Is there a district rule that states a student can not be tutored by his/her teacher after school in the classroom. It is convenient for me, the teacher and more beneficial for my child. We were all advised by the principal that it could not occur. I can't imagine a school district making it that hard for a child to receive extra help as to force them to drive elsewhere or make evening arrangements. Please advise. Thank you.
Posted on May 10, 2010 Why do you need to have Middle School half day November 5th next school year? Why can't it be scheduled on the same day as elementary school kids also have a half day or day off (2 weeks later). The same question for multiple half days in June. It would be easier for parents with kids in different schools if you schedule these on the same days.
Posted on May 4, 2010 Is there a way to see the BOE Meeting videos that are older than the current one posted? I wanted to see the 3/16 meeting, but somehow I missed that being posted to the website. Thanks.
Posted on May 4, 2010 Does Shen offer lifeguarding classes?
Posted on May 4, 2010 Where can I purchase SHEN apparel? Do you have a website?
Posted on May 4, 2010 Are there any school sports activities in middle school?
Posted on May 4, 2010 There are only 2-1/2 months of school left and the Skano Administration is once again going to make another change (effective this Monday) that will affect the entire school greatly! Recess before lunch? Do all the 5th grade parents know that their children, who probably ate breakfast at around 6:30-7:00 a.m., will now not be eating until possibly 12:30-1:00 p.m.? That is 6 hours later!!! This is not "healthy" for our children! This change, 3/4 through the school year, is disruptive to our children's routines. What about the staff? Will their be coverage to watch our children? That has been an issue as well. Who will be accountable for our children inside and outside? Another change is not good for this school.
Posted on May 4, 2010 Will there still be 6th grade orchestra next year? I'm hearing about teacher cuts in that area. I rent an instrument and don't want to pay all summer to find out there won't be lessons.
Posted on April 26, 2010 It would be interesting to see nutritional information for school lunches. Could the Food Service department please post that for each day of a sample week elementary school menu? Thanks!
Posted on April 26, 2010 Hi just wondering if the new 66 passenger school buses will have L.E.D. 8 way warning lights?
Posted on April 26, 2010 Why does Shen purchase 66 passenger buses rather than 72 passenger? Thanks
Posted on April 16, 2010 Do middle schoolers get an outdoor recess? I heard only kids from Koda go outside.
Posted on April 16, 2010 Our family is considering a move that would technically require a change in elementary schools. However, the change is from one adjoining elementary school to the other. As the bus route is the same, can our children simply continue to attend the elementary school they are currently enrolled at?
Posted on April 16, 2010 As a senior who may be moving out of the Shen district before the end of the school year, but staying in the immediate area, who would I talk to about finishing my senior year in Shen?
Posted on April 12, 2010 Why has the boys basketball team gotten new jerseys three years in a row and yet other teams have had their jerseys for five plus years?
Posted on April 12, 2010 Is there any kind of policy regarding whether or not parents should substitute in the same building that their children attend school?
Posted on April 12, 2010 Is there a second opportunity to apply for National Honor Society during Senior year or just in the spring of Junior year?
Posted on April 12, 2010 This is my third try to get an answer to the following question. Approximately how much has the aquatic center added to the annual budget in terms of maintenance, personnel, utilities, and added insurance? I ask because I'd rather see the aquatic center temporarily shut down rather than see teacher layoffs.
Posted on April 12, 2010 While I think the DARE program provides some benefit to students, research has not shown it to be effective. With budgetary problems as they are, has the cost/benefit of this program been evaluated by the district? Also, how much does the district spend each year for this program?
Posted on April 12, 2010 I have heard that around $0.5 Million was left over from the Football/Track project last year. Is that money going to be used to improve other fields such as softball or baseball. Both these fields seem like they could use some work. Thanks!
Posted on April 1, 2010 My family and I thoroughly enjoyed watching the girls basketball team pursue the NYS championship title. Congratulations! I was just wondering if any of the fairly steep ticket prices $6 for sectional, $10 beyond that go back to our school or the girl's program. Given the size of the crowd, I would say that HVCC more than covered their facility cost, refs etc. It is expensive for a family of 4, so it would be nice if the girl's program benefited.
Posted on April 1, 2010 Is there a list online where we can find which students play on which athletic team?
Posted on April 1, 2010 During summer school are you allowed to leave for a week if you have a vacation already booked?
Posted on April 1, 2010 I was wondering if the rumor that for every day a student is late/absent from school as a freshman, sophomore, or junior that student is not allowed to drive in to school senior year. please explain this or point me to where I can find the answer. Thank you!
Posted on March 26, 2010 I am not aware of any district policy banning the breast cancer awareness bracelets being worn in school. To find the bracelets inappropriate or offensive is unheard of. What is more offensive is the amount of skin that is allowed to be showcased by the students, rather than the bracelets being worn for a worthy cause. When did this become a written policy? I seem to have missed receiving this. Although there is a dress code, rest assured it is not enforced. What ever happened to freedom of speech and beliefs - we do live in a democratic society, I thought.
The district is not against breast cancer awareness items of clothing in general. However, when any item of clothing has the potential of becoming a distraction in school, the principal has the discretion to take action. The issue you are referring to are the bracelets that say "I Love Boobies." This was not an issue until it started showing up on t-shirts. The concern is how far will it go...think about the potential for other types of cancers or diseases.
Posted on March 23, 2010 Do seniors have to give their guidance counselors all of their college acceptance letters, or just the one for the school they decide to go to?
Posted on March 23, 2010 This morning as I drove on campus, the end bus, parked and unloading at Tesago had its lights on and stop signs out. I was driving on the main road and stopped when I saw the bus lights on. All the cars behind me were honking at me and the car in the other direction stopped, but eventually went. I assumed the bus driver waved him on, but I was unable to see. What is the policy with this? The other buses did not have their lights on - just the one on the end. This made me believe I should stop. However, kids exited the bus on the side away from the road and got right on the sidewalk. Maybe you can clarify this for me. Thanks.
Posted on March 23, 2010 In September 2010, Rosh Hashanah Eve falls on the first Wednesday after Labor Day, are any considerations being taken since Yom Kippur falls on a Saturday?
Posted on March 23, 2010 Why does it always seem to take 4 to 8 weeks to publish BOE meeting minutes? I am on a couple of "boards" and our first order of business is always to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Is that not the practice of the Shen BOE?
Posted on March 23, 2010 My child attended the Acadia Green/White dance on 3/5. At the end of the dance the students were not allowed to wait in front of the school for their rides. So I had to walk in and pick him up. In the past there was never any problem waiting in front of the entrance. What is the big deal that they wait outside for their ride. If he is old enough to do to a dance by himself I can trust him to wait for his ride. Please do not tell me that some crazy parent had a problem with this. Of course now all of us have to suffer. Is this a new policy for dances? Just inquiring. Thanks.
Posted on March 23, 2010 Is an Accelerated class the same as an Honors class? My son is in Math 7 Honors this year and is doing well. It has been stated in a previous question regarding this that if they were to be recommended for it in 8th grade, letters would be sent home the week of March 8th correct? If I do not receive a letter should I contact the teacher then? Thank you.
Posted on March 23, 2010 Can you please explain what this means? "Complete plan for 2 years of foreign language at Middle School: $115, 998 " What change is being proposed?
Posted on March 18, 2010 Dodgeball seems to be very popular at Shen and in the general High School population. Has the schools in Section 2 Athletics ever considered creating a Varsity Dodgeball team? Could you post a link where I could suggest they do so?
Posted on March 8, 2010 When dropping students off during school hours, students should be dropped off by the doors to the right of Gowana's Cafeteria, not at the Green Gym lobby doors. Visitors and parents picking up their children should also follow this protocol. Then: Please remember to drop off your student(s) in the area designated for drop offs in the Gowana parking lot, not in the bus loop. These are in contradiction. Drop off area is by the left doors, yet they are saying to drop off by the right doors. Which is it?
Posted on March 8, 2010 What happens to the leftover food that is not used during lunch? Would it be possible to be given out to the last lunch period of the day?
Posted on March 8, 2010 Is there something special for seniors who are graduating and are enlisted in the military. I was told there was but I'm just double checking. If so what do they do for those seniors?
Posted on February 26, 2010 I have a question regarding Shen Summer
Adventures. In the past, I was told by Shen that ONLY Shen students are
eligible to attend SSA. Is this still the case? Or will Shen allow
students from other area school districts to take part in these camps?
Posted on February 26, 2010 Can you please tell me how Shen handles students that get injured participating in a school sport or activity? How is insurance handled? If a family has insurance who is responsible for the co-pays being made per doctor visit? Thank you for your help.
Posted on February 26, 2010 Did you know that Twitter is blocked from student AND faculty computers? Consequently we cannot access the Shen Twitter page. How can Shen stay abreast of the changing technology and the communication interfaces of the Internet if they continue to censor at this level?
Posted on February 26, 2010 My son is in full day pre k in private school. My concern is that I don't want him to go from full day pre k to half day kindergarten can I put him in the private school kindergarten and switch him to first grade after he is finished with his kindergarten there?
Posted on February 22, 2010 Again, I will ask the same question. How can high school faculty play sports (dodgeball tournament or gym class) with students when for insurance purposes they shouldn't? Thanks
Posted on February 22, 2010 How long has the 5 credits needed minimum for your senior year been in effect? And why had it changed... just curious
Posted on February 22, 2010 2nd request ...do faculty and staff have to pay admission at school sporting events that are held at home? Someone said you do not have to pay an entrance fee if you show your Shen ID. True ... or not ???
Posted on February 22, 2010 Should a coach or an assistant coach for a particular sport that has a child soon to be or is participating in the same sport as the parent coaching, step down as to not cause a conflict or interest and favoritism?
Posted on February 8, 2010 What does the temperature have to be outside in order for the children to be allowed outside? Is it a district wide policy or by school?
This is the recommendation of our school physician: “There should be no outdoor activity (either lunch recess or regular recess) if the ambient temperature is 20 degrees or the wind chill factor is 20 degrees or below.”
Posted on February 8, 2010 Are High school students allowed to carry backpacks with them during the school day? Thanks!
Posted on February 8, 2010 Gym clothes regulations - I have not found anything on the website that states that elementary school children are required to wear sweat pants only on gym days. Nor can I find anything that states they can't wear Velcro sneakers. My child was in Orenda for Kindergarten, Arongen for 1st and now back at Orenda for 2nd. At no time has Orenda required gym clothes regulations - or have they ever stopped my son from participating due to his wearing jeans on a gym day. I have spoken with other parents of Arongen and they have been told of the regulations as well and thought it pertained to all Shen schools. but, we haven't been able to find any guidelines that states this rule. How can 1 gym teacher have their own rules when others in Shen do not? When the gym teacher for my son last year was asked this - she stated it was a "suggestion" - then if a "suggestion" why have a perception that there is a rule being broken?
Posted on February 8, 2010 I'm interested in knowing how many other school districts in the state require 7th and 8th graders to choose between chorus and band? There are many famous musicians who are also known for their singing, but they were most likely allowed to do both in middle school. Please, Shen, consider changing this policy. Students could take chorus AND band/orchestra and omit study hall or possibly offer them after school. I would love to see a survey taken in regards to this. Not all students are sports nuts. Luckily for the athletes, they are allowed to play both football and basketball and don't have to choose one or the other.
Posted on February 8, 2010 Can you please explain the "mandated increase in retirement costs of more than $2 million dollars"? What is mandated, by who, and why is there an increase? Thanks!
Posted on February 8, 2010 It is interesting that the school district's fund balance has become a topic of discussion when it represents less than 4% of the total budget. I am sure that most households have at least 5 times that amount in reserve for "rainy days". Look at the Town of Clifton Park, it has over $14 million dollars in reserve, gained from sales taxes. Why can't the district get some of the sales taxes?
Posted on February 8, 2010 How were ninth graders chosen for NCBI? Just wondering who picked students and how/why they were picked. Thanks.
Posted on February 2, 2010 Why are OKTE students out in a snow squall at 30 degree weather? What about inside recess/gym class?
Recess is held for all students when the temperature (with the wind chill factored in) is 20 degrees or higher. On that particular day, it was only warm enough to hold recess outdoors for grades 3,4,& 5. Rain may cancel recess but snow does not.
Posted on February 2, 2010 How many times around EACH ring of the Shen track is a mile? I think the innermost ring is four?
Four laps around the track is a mile. That is measured from the inside. The further out you go on the track, the further you will be running. If you choose to start outside, look for the staggered start boxes so that you know you are running a mile.
Posted on February 2, 2010 Can teachers require students to do community service? My national issues teacher has given us a project that requires us to do community service, attended board meetings, etc. And from what I have heard, no other class has been given this assignment. Please respond...
Yes.
Posted on February 2, 2010 In middle school are the kids pulled out of regular classes for band or orchestra lessons or rehearsals or are those scheduled separately during or after school?
Band, Choir and Orchestra are scheduled during the school day and built into the schedule as a class period. Students in the instrumental program receive a weekly lesson also as part of the school day and follow a rotating schedule. The lessons are carefully structured on a 3-4 period rotating basis to provide a balance with other academics and avoid excessive absences from any one class.
Posted on February 2, 2010 I am concerned about the number of "SIS" Messages
that are e-mailed to the various e-mail accounts the school has for me
and my wife. I get them to at least 2 different e-mail accounts and also
on my Blackberry. They all need to be erased
There are two formats for sending email notifications to parents. They either come from the district office or from the individual school. Sometimes, if you have a student in more than one school you may receive the email twice. In general though, we set up the messages to go out with a "one message limit", meaning that our system scans the email list and sends only one email per guardian not per student. If, in a two guardian household, both guardians use the same email address then you will get two. If you have your email set up to go to a PDF we have no control over that. We only send email to addresses that you have given us and are in our student information system. If you need to have you email contacts changed please contact the district office.
Posted on February 2, 2010 Isn't it costly to provide transportation as well as heat and light the high school buildings for the few kids who take Regents exams in January? Has the district considered [gulp!] holding classes that week and just excusing students from class who are taking the exams?
You do make a good point. The January Regents week has been studied and will continue to be looked at as the state realign the testing schedule. However, we also use Regents week for final and midterm exams. Currently there are over 30 exams being offered that week.
Posted on February 2, 2010 The purpose of the grapevine is to help answer people's questions if not all questions are answered what happens to those people who's pertinent questions are not answered? especially if they have a deadline to meet.
There are many ways to get answers to questions you may have including phone calls, e-mail, or personal conversation with a staff member. If you have a deadline these avenues would probably be a better way to get a response. There are only a couple of reasons why questions are not answered on the Grapevine, either they have been answered before, they are inappropriate or the question has a deadline that already passed.
Posted on February 2, 2010 I would like to know who set the "outdoor recess policy" that requires kids to have outdoor recess when the temp is 20 degrees (with wind chill). Many moms I have spoke with agree that this is way too cold for the children to be outside. Many of the kids are sick in the winter and shouldn't be forced to go outside in the cold. I would like to see the policy changed to at least 32 degrees.
The guideline was set after consultation with the school physician.
Posted on February 2, 2010 My daughter won't buy the milk at Acadia. she says when she has bought it, that it is always partially frozen, and is chunky when she drinks it. Is the milk at Acadia, ever frozen?
We do not freeze milk at Shenendehowa, as a district we get a fresh milk delivery daily at all 10 of our kitchens. We do find during the winter months that milk can come in partially frozen. This is do to the packing of the trucks and the timing of our deliveries by the milk vender.
Posted on February 2, 2010 I was wondering why the middle school and high school use disposable Styrofoam trays in the lunch room (instead of the plastic ones that are used by my elementary schooler). This does not seem to be very environmentally friendly.
Currently it is a cost issue
Posted on January 22, 2010 I am currently in a tech course that I can receive college credit for from RIT. At what point do I pay the money for the course to receive the credit?
Students enrolled in Project Lead The Way courses, through the Technology Department can earn college Credit through RIT. Those students must earn an 85% average in the course and score 70% or better on parts A and C of the final exam. Students that qualifying for college credit are notified, in early July by the Academic Administrator for CTE. In the notification, students will receive two letter and a RIT registration form. The registration form must be submitted to RIT, along with payment no later than December 31 of the current year. Therefore, students who qualify for credit in June must send their registration form and payment to RIT before December 31st of 2010. RIT mails out a transcript at the end of the trimester in which the registration was received from the student.
Posted on January 22, 2010 I asked this question about two weeks ago, so I'll try again. How come girls are allowed to walk around wearing leggings with ONLY a t-shirt, therefore their butts are not covered? And don't say it doesn't happen, because it does. I see many girls in EVERY one of my classes, plus tons of girls in the hallway, wearing this "style." The dress code has only allowed skirts longer than the length of a girls fingertips (when her arm is straightened out), yet a girl can walk around in leggings with every nuance of her lower body on display. It disgusts me! I don't want to see that. HSE does a horrible job of enforcing any semblance of a school dress code to begin with, but this is just un-called for. The girls should be sent home and made to change.
As long as leggings are dark colored and are covered by a shirt or skirt, they are allowed.
Posted on January 21, 2010 Are any of the school gyms open on weekends for kids/families to play basketball? Thanks.
Posted on January 15, 2010 I am a bit confused about how the National Honor Society works. I was told you needed to be invited to apply to NHS or does the individual apply and waits to hear if they get in?
If you meet the academic requirement, you will be invited to apply.
Posted on January 15, 2010 Is it true that after elementary school, a child must choose between chorus and band?
Instrumentalists have the option of adding chorus for the second semester of 6th grade. This may be done with a note from the parent to the child's guidance counselor prior to the start of the 3rd marking period. In 7th and 8th grade students must select band, choir, or orchestra. Instrumentalists, however, may still audition for select choirs which meet before/after school. In grades 9-12, scheduling permitting, students may take choir in addition to band or orchestra as part of the regular school day.
Posted on January 15, 2010 Can you please tell me whether my 6th graders orchestra grade is counted toward her overall average? I heard that the gym grade is not even though they do receive numbered grades in both. Thank you, you do a very good job on this site
Yes, it is.
Posted on January 15, 2010 What happens if a school official acts inappropriately? How are they held accountable? By whom? Does it also become public knowledge as it does for the students?
The process for staff (school officials) is pretty much the same as students. There are rules of conduct. When the district receives a report of inappropriate behavior, it is investigated. If proven true, there are disciplinary consequences. And, just like with students, someone typically tips off the media or sends it into the grapevine and it becomes public knowledge.
Posted on January 14, 2010 What criteria is used to recommended a student for the MST academy?
Students must have passed Algebra, Geometry A and the Integrated Algebra exam. In addition they must have passed two years of science and passed at least one science Regents exam.
Posted on January 14, 2010 In what year our students inducted into the NHS? Junior or Senior ?
Both.
Posted on January 11, 2010 I have a question about the Physical Education fitness gram (which I knew absolutely nothing about until I read it on the Grapevine). Your response (January 11) states that "heights and weights are done where no other students can see what is being recorded." Is ANYONE present with student and teacher while height and weight are being measured? I think it would be in the best interests of both to have another party present.
While privacy is provided so that the actual height and weight is not heard by others, this is not a closed door type of activity and is usually carried out in a large enough room so that the student and teacher are not alone. In general, our teachers are advised not to be alone with one student in any situation. Obviously, this is for the safety of our students and the protections of staff members.
Posted on January 11, 2010 How is it underage drinking becomes a news story? Does Shen report these types of common teenage issues to the press? I find it unbelievable that these are newsworthy stories. Somehow I don't think Shen wants this type of publicity. I imagine it is a parent of a student not involved that passes this information on. This is the exact reason I pay my hard earned money to send my children to private school. Shen is not a community. It's very political and people seem to be happy when a child/children get into trouble. Just like the comment about a family party where there are pictures of children drinking with their family on the internet. Seriously, people need to worry bout themselves and stop thriving on trying to get people in trouble. I read the Grapevine every now and then because we live in the shen district. I give whoever answers the questions a huge amount of credit, because it seems like a place for people to hid and ask outrageous questions. So anyway, does the district call the news regarding the bad choices some teenagers make?
No. If asked, we will confirm that an event took place, but we do not publicize when students make bad decisions. We do not release the specifics of the investigation and we do not release how students were disciplined (that is protected by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act) Typically when the media calls they say that they received a “tip.” That is one of the reasons we created this grapevine, to provide a place for people to get answers instead of going to the media.
Posted on January 11, 2010 Do the cheerleaders that represent Shenendehowa have to adhere to the code of conduct by signing a contract like the athletes?
All athletes and participants in extracurricular activities sign a code.
Posted on January 11, 2010 For the fitness gram my daughter said that they took you height and weight. Isn't this information private? It should not be done in gym class or every at school unless done by the nurse. My daughter rather do the presidential program.
Fitness gram is the approved physical fitness assessment we use at Shenendehowa K-12. We no longer use the presidential testing. The heights and weights are done where no other students can see what is being recorded. The information is strictly between the teacher and the student, unless the student shares the information with others.
Posted on January 7, 2010 Weeks ago I asked if Shen investigate photographs
of high school students on social networks where they are drinking
alcohol with their parents? The pictures I found had not only the family
members, but children from other families within the district.
That has been answered before. We do not search social networking sites. We are not the police and do not have resources to investigate what students and/or parents are doing outside the school day. When something is brought to our attention, we will investigate and students would potentially be disciplined according to our code of conduct.
Posted on January 6, 2010 Can you please post our questions on the grapevine word for word, I found my question but it was written differently. I feel this doesn't mean anything if it is not posted how people write it.
Questions are usually posted word for word (with grammatical editing). However, references to a specific staff member are taken out. If your question was worded differently, it probably wasn't your question. It was probably asked by someone else in a different way. We often get multiple questions on a particular topic.
Posted on January 6, 2010 Would you be able to give more detailed information on how to get a cell phone text message on Twitter for school delays and closings? I set up an account but don't see any instructions as to how to add my cell phone number so that Shen can text me. Thanks.
When you log in to Twitter or sign up for an account, click on the settings link (top of page). Then click on the link that says "Mobile" and follow the directions.
Posted on January 5, 2010 Why are students marked late when they have a pass to class? Does this count as a tardy?
Posted on January 5, 2010 Why should the girls basketball team have to be punished for something that happened outside of school property, especially since almost all athletes engage in similar activities?
Posted on January 5, 2010 I've asked this so many times... if I'm a senior and drive in everyday what if someday I need to drive one of my other cars can i still drive it in even though I don't have a sticker for it
Posted on January 5, 2010 Shen is now on Twitter, however, when I click on the icon, the Shen Web Filter prohibits me from getting on the Twitter website. Please advise.
Posted on January 5, 2010 Do you think it would be possible to do a twitter update if the kids will have outside recess? Snowpants are hard fit for the bookbag every morning and it gets her hopes up that she will get to go outside.
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