Portola Springs Handbook

For the safety and comfort of our students and staff, animals are not permitted on campus, even if they are on a leash or are carried. Please be aware that pursuant to Orange County Ordinance 41.46, dogs are not to be on school grounds at any time. This includes after school events.

Bicycles

• Parents assume FULL responsibility and liability for the rider’s conduct and bicycle.
• Bicycles are allowed for students in grades 3-6 only. Bicycles must be in safe working condition. Follow IPD guidelines and law regarding motorized bikes and scooters.
• All bicycles MUST be parked in the bike rack and LOCKED.
• Helmets MUST be worn by all students riding to and from school.
• All bicycles must be walked on school grounds.
• Skateboards may be locked up in the skateboard racks near the music classrooms. Helmets must be worn.

Walking To and From School

Parents are urged to discuss safety rules and the responsibilities of good citizenship with their children in regard to walking to and from school. These points should be stressed:

• Come directly to school from home.
• Walk on the sidewalk and inside the crosswalks. Being near Portola Parkway, we need to be extra vigilant.
• Cross streets only at the corners and crosswalks and with the crossing guard who is on duty before and after school. Jaywalking is a citable offense by the Irvine Police Department. 
• Do not talk to strangers.

Driving and Parking

Portola Springs has two parking lots: the big parking lot (nearest to Portola Parkway) and the small parking lot (nearest to the fire station). There will be drop off/pick up areas in both parking lots 15 minutes before and after dismissal.

Small Parking Lot (near fire station)

• The small parking lot may only be entered only via Modjeska.
• There will be drop off areas for parents to drop off students. Parents must remain in their vehicles. Students will only be permitted to enter and exit cars from the passenger side. Exiting on the driver’s side could result in a child being hit by a car. This drop off area will be closest to Pre-K and Kindergarten rooms.

Big Parking Lot (near Portola Parkway)

• The big parking lot may be entered via Modjeska or Portola Springs at the signal. Please do not block the intersection as students will be crossing and emergency vehicles may need to exit. You may be ticketed for blocking an intersection.
• There will be drop off areas for parents to drop off students. Parents must remain in their vehicles. Students will only be permitted to enter and exit cars from the passenger side. Exiting on the driver’s side could result in a child being hit by a car.
• The large parking lot will have parking spaces for visitors during the school day.

Where can I drop off?

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Regardless of frustrations and/or inconveniences that may arise from parking guidelines and regulations, it is important to remember why they are there. When weighing drop off/pick up and parking lot inconveniences against the safety of our children, there is no argument. Please help make Portola Springs as safe as it possibly can be -- that is why we have our staff on duty before and after school -- to maintain safety for all.

Some suggestions for your consideration………

• You may park on Long Grass on the opposite side of the school.
• Park, walk, and meet your child at a pre-designated spot on campus. Please utilize the crosswalk to enter the school.
• You may park on Portola Springs past Modjeska where signage permits.
• Coordinate with other families in the neighborhood and carpool whenever possible.
• Have your children keep things like backpacks and instruments in the back seat instead of the trunk – it’s safer and it saves time.
• Plan accordingly; if inclement weather arrives, leave earlier for the unforeseen variables that may arise.
• If you live within a 10 minute walk of the school and can do so, walk your children to and from school. It is not only good for them, but good for you as well. Make it your daily exercise opportunity.

Student Valet Program

Our CUB Council, upper grade leadership students, have been trained by Irvine PD to assist with our Valet Program. In both parking lots before school, please pull forward and the valets will assist your child in opening the back passenger side door. This allows parents to remain in the vehicles and get in and out quickly. Thank you for your courtesy and safety with all our students!

Studies show that there is a direct correlation between good school attendance and student achievement. Therefore, we encourage you as parents to reinforce the importance of good school attendance and to make every effort to send your child to school on a regular basis. Please call 949-936-8801 before 8:45 a.m. each day if your child will be absent or tardy. The above line is dedicated specifically for this purpose. All tardy students must sign in at the front office before going to class.

Attendance and tardies are monitored at the District level and, per CA Ed Code, letters will be generated if your child has three or more tardies of 30 minutes or more, ten tardies of less than 30 minutes, or three unexcused absences. Per CA Ed Code, a student shall be excused from school when the absence is due to: illness, medical/dental appointments, funeral for immediate family members, observance of a holiday or ceremony of his or her religion, attendance at religious retreats, or student’s appearance in court.

Tardy/Leaving Early

Students are considered tardy if they are not in their class line at 8:15 a.m for primary, and 8:00 a.m for upper grades. If your child is tardy to school, he/she must report through the front office to allow us to update our attendance records for that day. Doors to the building are locked. Students will gain access through the office.

Should you find it necessary to schedule a medical appointment during your child’s class time, please sign out your child in the office. Do not go directly to the classroom at any time. This minimizes disruption to our instructional program and maintains student safety. Students leaving school before dismissal time must be signed out in the front office by a parent, guardian, or other adult listed in the Emergency Contacts on the computer. Students will be released only to those whose names are listed on the Emergency Contacts. Students will not be called out of class until parent arrives.

Independent Study Contracts

We realize that there are times during the school year when families are out of town for one reason or another. Independent Study Contracts can be requested 5 or more days prior to the first day of absence for absences that are 5-14 school days in duration. Contracts must be picked up and signed prior to leaving for the trip. When returned, if the student has completed the work, the absences will be marked EXCUSED. Contact our Front Office to begin the process of requesting a contract.

Portola Springs welcomes and values our volunteer assistance. In addition to the organization opportunities detailed on page 11, parents and guests may volunteer in classrooms and the library when pre-arranged with teachers/ staff.

Classroom/Library Assistance

Classroom teachers and our library staff will recruit parent help at the beginning of the school year. There are opportunities for parents to work directly with students, to complete clerical tasks, and to complete tasks at home. If you are interested in serving in this way, please contact your child’s teacher. If working in the library is of interest to you, please contact our library staff.

We want your experience as a classroom or library volunteer to be a successful one. Here are some suggestions that might be of interest to you when you come to help out:

1. Meet the students in a relaxed, friendly manner.
2. Learn student names and pronounce them correctly.
3. Let the students know that you are truly interested in them by asking about interests, friends, etc.
4. Give students your full attention. Listen to what they have to say.
5. Set an example for students by being courteous and respectful to them.
6. Build students’ self-confidence. Let them know you expect them to try and to succeed.

As you work with students, keep these ideas in mind:

1. Be consistent when working with students.
2. Learn school rules and be sure to follow them.
3. Be dependable. The teacher and students are depending on you.
4. Be prepared. Have everything ready when you start to work with students.
5. Reward students with positive praise.
6. Help students learn HOW to do their work.
7. Ask for help if you find a problem that you feel you may not be able to handle.
8. Your interest and enthusiasm as a volunteer may be the single most important part of success in learning for many students.

Confidentiality

All student information observed or obtained while volunteering is to remain confidential. Adults who breech this confidentiality expectation will not be invited to return.

Please recognize that when volunteering in the classroom, you are offering your assistance to the classroom teacher. If you are interested in observing your child’s classroom, you are allowed up to three observations of no more than one hour each during the school year, per IUSD Board Policy. Please request your desired observation in writing at least two school days in advance

At Portola Springs, we are constantly concerned for the safety and welfare of each of our students. We hold regular drills to teach children the appropriate way to safely exit the building in the event of a fire, to “duck and cover” in the event of an earthquake, and to respond to lockdowns (both for non-emergent situations and emergency situations). The school is fully equipped with search and rescue materials, first aid supplies, food, and water. Staff are assigned emergency preparedness roles and undergo specific training as needed. Our school staff is prepared to deal with a major emergency and to provide for the physical and emotional needs of students while they are under our supervision, as well as their orderly and safe release.

Access to students, in the event of an emergency, will be carefully controlled so that we may account for every child. Students will be released ONLY to adults designated on their emergency data.

In the event of an emergency, we will attempt to contact the parent community using emergency systems linked to phones and email. To assist us in this effort, we require parents to do the following:

• Keep your contact information (including home phone, cell phone, email, and emergency contacts) on the MyIUSD parent portal up to date.
• In the event of an emergency, check in at the designated student-release area to pick up / sign out students.
• The school provides water for students. No earthquake kits are needed.

• Art Specialist: all grades
• Instrumental/Choral Music: 4-6
• Vocal Primary Music: Pre-K-3
• Library/Media Center: Pre-K-6
• Brainstorm Edu– STEM education once a month from PTA
• Science Specialist: 4-6
• Peer Buddy Classes (primary and Upper as well as gen ed and Special Education classes)
• DARE Program (6th Grade): a special healthy lifestyle program for 6th grade, sponsored by Irvine PD.

One of our priorities is to have students develop personal responsibility. To this end, staff members will not accept homework or library books once school begins. The front office staff will accept forgotten instruments. Late lunches are to be labeled with your child’s and teacher’s name and placed in the late lunch cart in front of the office and must be at school by 11:15.

• Personal belongings, such as roller blades, scooters, Heelys, and hand-held laser pointers, are not permitted on school grounds.
• Cell phones in grades 5th and 6th will be collected each morning for safe keeping in the classroom. They should be turned off at this time. Students will be taught responsible technology use. Should they need to reach families during the school day, students can visit the office to use the phone.
• Students may not talk or text on their cell phones or listen to messages at any time during the school day. Cell phones for students (not in 5th and 6th) must remain OFF an in their backpacks. The school is not responsible for the devices when on school grounds.
• Any watch or device that has 2 way communication capabilities will need to be off and in the students backpack or left with the teacher during the school day. The school and/or staff will not be held responsible for the damage or loss of such devices.
• In order to minimize classroom interruptions, we also do not deliver non-emergency phone messages from the office to individual classrooms. We ask that you take care of all after-school arrangements with your child before he/she leaves for school. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. 
• Students must have a pass to be in the buildings or atriums before school, during recess, or during lunch periods.
• Closed toe shoes must be worn at all times.
• If a major discipline issue arises, administration will conduct an investigation by collecting written statements from students, then interviewing and talking with any/all parties involved. Discipline and other means of correction/support will be determined on a case by case basis. Administration will work to promote Restorative Practices and Learning opportunities, while also upholding EdCode for safe conduct at school. Families will be notified of any investigation or discipline.

A District nurse, health clerk, or office staff are available on campus to assist with the illness or injury of a child. Parents will be contacted to pick up their child if he/she needs to go home or see a physician. Information and guidance is provided to staff, parents, and students when medical conditions affect academic and/or social growth. 

When Your Child is Ill 

Germs spread very quickly. If your child tells you that he/she does not feel well, please take the time to take his/her temperature BEFORE sending your child to school. We know that a child does not always have a fever when feeling ill, but most often we find ourselves sending home children who do. Listen to your child and take their temperature! A temperature of 99.9 degrees + will result in a phone call for him/her to be picked up. 

Vision and Hearing Screenings

District nursing staff provides students with vision and hearing screenings for grades K, 2, 5, new students, or at parent or teacher request. 

Breakfast

Please make certain that your child eats breakfast before arriving at school. Often times a “sick” child is just hungry.

Part 1: Purpose Statements

For each grade level or department, articulate the purposes for which homework is assigned.

• Practice concepts and skills taught in class to check for understanding or develop mastery
• Preview assignments to prepare for subsequent lessons
• Extend assignments to transfer new skills or concepts to new situations
• Create activities to integrate many skills toward the production of a response or product
• Support creative, logical, critical, evaluative, and analytical thinking
• Develop and strengthen study habits and responsibility
• Communicate to parents the skills and concepts in class

Part 2: Appropriate Parent/ Guardian Involvement

For each grade level or department, a description of appropriate parent/guardian involvement.

• Set up a consistent organized distraction-free place for homework
• Help your child establish either a consistent schedule for completing homework or help him/her create a schedule each week that reflects that particular week’s activities
• Prompt your child by reviewing the directions and the completed work
• Encourage your child but if the work cannot be completed, contact your teacher
• If your child is practicing a skill, ask him/her to tell you which steps are easy, which are difficult and how she/he is going to improve
• There is a strong correlation between reading to or with children every day and increased student achievement
• Recognize that each child learns differently

Part 3: Informing Parents & Guardians

The means by which parents/guardians shall be informed about: homework expectations; how homework is factored into student grades, when it is factored into student grades; how to respond when homework demands feel excessive.

Informing Parents of Homework

Teachers shall communicate homework policy during Back-to-School Night, parent conferences, and grade level websites.

Homework Expectations

Upper (4th-6th) Reminders

• Provide evidence of thinking/solution attempts on all homework assignments, even if the task is not finished.
• Persevere through difficult assignments and write down specific questions to ask if you get stuck.
• Make arrangements for access to technology when necessary.
• Be mindful of due dates posted on Canvas / Google Classroom.

Part 4: Student Access

The access that students shall have to obtain: resource materials from the library media center including online materials, assistance, and/or tutoring.

• Access to the library/media center print resources occurs either when the student comes to the MC with a teacher as a class or individually with a pass. (Primary students can come individually to check out materials if they missed a class check out due to absence or small group pull-out session.)
• We have the ability to allow students to access videos that are part of the Discovery Streaming database from home if teachers choose to make that an option (cannot require it.)
• Assistance and/or tutoring
  • EL support (Instructional Assistants)
  • Extended learning (based on test scores, grades, teacher recommendation)
  • Paper (online tutoring) free access online 24/7 for students grades 4th-6th
• Ways to disseminate the above information:
  • Direct parent contact
  • Direct student instruction (library resources)
  • BTSN flyers
  • Conferences
  • Teacher website/ emails
  • School website
  • Destiny homepage

Part 5: Coordination of Assignments

The means by which teachers shall coordinate assignments so the students do not receive excessive daily homework assignments.

• Each grade level team works together to create daily and weekly homework.
• Students are encouraged to read nightly; specific reading assignments may be given.

Part 6: Excused Absences

Notification to parents/guardians that no student may have his/her grade reduced or lose academic credit for any excused absence when missed assignments and tests are satisfactorily completed within a reasonable period of time Such notification shall include the full text of Education Code 48205. (Education Code 48980)

• Students are encouraged to complete missed homework within 3 days of their absence.
• Annual Parent Notification document sent via email at the beginning of the school year and available on IUSD website.

Part 7: Student Suspensions

Notification to parents/guardians that the teacher of any class from which a student is suspended may require the student to complete any assignments and tests missed during the suspension. (Education Code 48913)

• Parent notification included in suspension letter that must be signed by both student and parent.
• General notification on district website and in annual Parent Notification document.

Part 8: Academic Breaks

A description of when academic breaks will occur that acknowledges that students need and will receive time without homework assignments.

It is recognized that homework, like all educational curriculum, should be developmental in nature. In this light, we will strive to build all academic programs from a developmental perspective beginning in early grades. Additionally, we will make every effort to progress over the years to an academic level that will help assure success at the high school level for those individuals who take advantage of the opportunities afforded them. It is further recognized that in order to accomplish this goal, students need to be nurtured in such a manner to ensure the most positive experience we can envision for each child. Clearly, children need a combination of free time and meaningful work to progress. The word balance is the key, and it is, by necessity, determined on a student by student basis.

With these constructs in mind, the following points shall serve as conditions for intersession homework across all grade levels:

• Homework assignments may include the following:
  1. Reading – Benefits include a higher aptitude for learning in general, better communication skills, as well as an ability to grasp abstract concepts, apply logic in various scenarios, and recognize cause and effect;
  2. Music Practice – To master your chosen instrument and become good players, students should aim to practice daily.
• Assignments will be available to all students.
• Students shall not be penalized for circumstances beyond their control. For example, if the student is out of town during the entire intersession break and unable to bring their instrument, his/her parent can write a note to excuse the student from music practice.
• Students will be provided with sufficient time during the quarter (whether before break, after break, or both) to complete as-signed work. In other words, additional homework shall not be assigned over the break, though students may have assignments they choose to work on during the break.
• Students failing to meet the grade level criteria may be encouraged to take remedial action with parental assistance during intersession.

The best information regarding your child’s progress and upcoming assignments can be found on your child’s classroom teacher’s website which can be found through our school website.

The Irvine Unified School District is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education. District programs and activities including membership in student clubs shall be free from discrimination based on race, color, ancestry, nationality, ethnic group identification, immigration status, age, religion, actual or potential parental, family, or marital status, or the exclusion of any person because of pregnancy or related conditions, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, or genetic information; the perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.

The District does not discriminate in enrollment in or access to any of the activities and programs available. Admission to these programs is based on age appropriateness, class space, interest, aptitude, and prerequisite coursework where applicable. The lack of English skills shall not be a barrier to admission to or participation in the District’s activities and programs. The Irvine Unified School District also does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices.*

*The full Nondiscrimination statement can be found at iusd.org and Board Policy 5145.5

A lost and found cart is located on the carts by the office. Small items, such as glasses and retainers, as well as musical instruments, are kept in the office. We encourage parents and students to check the cart regularly for lost items. Please label everything that is sent to school.

Free Breakfast and Lunches are available again this year, courtesy of the USDA. There is no need to fill out an application. Student’s Pin Number for the cafeteria will be emailed home to parent/guardian prior to the school day, or can be retrieved via Parent Portal at https://my.iusd.org.

You can find the menu for breakfast and lunch on the IUSD.org website under Nutrition Services

• Lunch Menus

Breakfast will be served during student’s AM recess time and lunch during their lunch time.

For AM Recess for 1st-6th, sitting at the tables to eat a snack is optional. If students to choose to eat a snack from the cafeteria or home, this will be done at the lunch tables. Each grade level 1st-6th will have 20 minutes at the lunch tables to eat before they are dismissed. They will also have 20 minutes to play during the lunch break.

Any time your child requires medication at school, the medication must be kept in the nurse’s office to be given by school personnel. LEGALLY, the school requires:

1. Medication MUST be in the ORIGINAL pharmacy bottle, labeled by the pharmacist.
2. The parent MUST sign a consent form prior to medication being administered. The form is available in the school office, as well as on the IUSD website under:
   1.  Health Services
3. The physician MUST sign a consent form prior to medication being administered. Medication will not be administered unless instructions are specific.
4. Medication MUST be brought to school by a parent. At no time should medication arrive at school in a lunch box, backpack, baggie, etc. 

These regulations apply to NON-PRESCRIPTION medications as well. Non-prescription drugs include aspirin, vitamins, cough syrup, cough drops, ointments, etc. The only exception would be if parent/guardian gives consent to provide first aid such as calamine lotion, eye wash, Vaseline, etc.

• Please do not send your child to school with medications of any kind in their backpack.

Please note that if a parent has a meeting on school grounds, the child should remain with the parent or have other arrangements for supervision. Supervision is not provided in the office or hallways during meetings.

The office is open 7:30am-3:30pm on school days. The school staff works hard to provide the best quality services to children, staff, and parents.

Our commitment is that we will regularly and thoroughly communicate with parents. This communication will be accomplished through a variety of methods and formally scheduled activities throughout the year.

Back to School Night

Portola Springs participates in a “flipped” Back to School Night. During the first month of school, the principal will send home a video from the teachers to present the curriculum, policies, and procedures for the year. The Back To School evening in August is a “meet and greet” and an opportunity for parents to sign up for a variety of volunteer opportunities. This is a night for adults only. Staff may discuss general information, not specific student progress.

Report Cards

Three times per year, report cards are issued for all students in grades Pre-K -6. The report card is no longer printed, but rather is available on the MyIUSD Parent Portal.

Parent Conferences

Conferences are scheduled two times per year, once in the fall and once in the spring. The fall conference is a goal setting conference to select goals for each child and to review early progress. The spring conference is optional and serves as follow-up when necessary. Teachers are always available to schedule an individual meeting to discuss concerns or issues. Please be sure to email your child’s teacher in advance to set up meeting time.

Open House

Open House is scheduled in February to showcase students’ progress. This event is an acknowledgement of the commendable efforts our students make throughout the year. Family and friends are invited to experience this popular event with their student.

Portola Springs Website

The Portola Springs website offers a plethora of information about our school program, staff, and events. Be sure to check it regularly!

Grizzly Bizz Email Blasts

The Grizzly Bizz is issued weekly to Parent/Guardian email addresses. Look in your inbox on Mondays to learn more about what is happening on campus.

Thursday Folders

In an effort to ensure that materials reach home, each child has a folder that parents/guardians should expect to be brought home every Thursday afternoon throughout the school year. The conduit might contain both school communication and schoolwork/homework. We hope that you will allow time each Thursday to review the information with your child and return the envelope or folder to school on Friday.

Email and Voicemail

All staff members have a phone message line and are requested to check it regularly. The phones in the classrooms revert to voicemail during the school day. Each staff member also has an email address, which they check at least once per day, when present at school. Staff email addresses are listed on the staff page of the Portola Springs website). Please call the office for any emergency issues as teachers will not answer the phone or check email during instructional time. Please allow staff members 24-48 hours to respond to emails.

Parent involvement is critical to the mission of Portola Springs; it supports the staff and helps reinforce the importance of education to your child. There are many ways to get involved. Following are details of organizations available for parent volunteers.

Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)

Portola Springs is fortunate to have the support of an active group of parents who devote their time and talents to promote activities and events for our students. Our PTA assists in community building, planning, and providing financial support, not available by other means, which improves the quality of learning and increases opportunities for enrichment for all students. Parents are encouraged to attend meetings, support activities, and volunteer. Dates and times of meetings and activities will be posted on the PTA link of the Portola Springs website and on the Portola Springs PTA webpage.

School Site Council (SSC)

The School Site Council is a group of parents and school personnel whose responsibility is to plan, monitor, and evaluate our School Improvement Plan. Parent members are elected by vote of all parents in the fall. Meetings are open to the general parent community and the schedule of times will be listed on the Portola Springs Website and in the Grizzly Bizz Newsletter.

English Language Advisory Committee (ELAC)

The ELAC is composed of the principal, staff, and parents of English Language Learners who meet to review our instructional support of English Language Learner students. This committee is combined with the SSC.

If you are interested in being a part of any of these organizations, please call the office at 949-936-8800.

We ask that parents keep their Parent Portal accounts with contact information up to date at all times. This information provides us your contact information and other emergency contacts in the event of your child being sick, hurt, or if there is an emergency. Students will ONLY be released to adults listed as an emergency contact.

• Parent Portal

Portola Springs G.R.E.A.T. is a school-wide commitment to positive behavior support. Identifying, teaching, and reinforcing the expected behaviors allow students to achieve academic, behavioral, and social success. Portola Springs G.R.E.A.T. stems from the University of Oregon’s Center of Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (P.B.I.S.) Portola Springs Elementary staff has undergone extensive training and has experience with the P.B.I.S. philosophies. Our staff adopted the P.B.I.S. philosophy and our first step was our behavioral statement of purpose: Portola Springs Elementary is a family of respectful and responsible learners. Together with our community we empower our students to be compassionate, empathetic citizens who make a positive difference in our world. Please see our school-wide matrix to learn more about Portola Springs Elementary’s expected behaviors. The school-wide matrix can be found on the PBIS page of the Portola Springs website.

Our PBIS slogan is … Grizzlies are GREAT!!! 

• Grizzlies are …
• Respectful
• Empathetic
• Always positive
• Truly responsible

G.R.E.A.T. Grizzly Cards

We will provide students with positive, immediate, and frequent reinforcement for these positive behaviors. When students are caught doing the right thing, Portola Springs Staff will reward them with “GREAT” cards. Other student acknowledgement opportunities will include: GREAT card drawings in the classrooms, and Grizzly Store each month where students can purchase items and experiences with their GREAT cards.

P.B.I.S. Basics and Research

Utilizing the “Systematic Change Model”, attention is focused on creating and sustaining primary (school-wide), secondary (classroom), and tertiary (individual) systems of support that improve lifestyle results for all children. This makes problem behavior less effective and desired behavior more functional. It is research-based, and it works!

Key Components

• Clearly defined school-wide expected behaviors
• Expected behaviors are intentionally taught in all school settings
• Purposeful reinforcement for demonstrating positive school -wide expected behaviors
• Consistent consequences and opportunities for re-teaching positive expected behaviors
• Use of data to make decisions about school-wide practices
• Comprehensive staff and student involvement

Goals

• Improve the academic culture through increased instructional time
• Improve the behavioral culture through a decrease in office discipline referrals
• Improve school safety and positive peer interactions

Playground supervision begins at 7:45 a.m. Students are not to arrive on campus before that time. There is no supervision after school on the playground. All students must go directly home when dismissed. Primary students who are dismissed early may wait for older siblings at the lunch tables. There is supervision for 15 minutes after dismissal at the lunch tables and in the parking lots. After 15 minutes all students will be brought to the office to call home.

The school grounds/playground are for the sole use of Portola Springs Elementary students during the school day, and are not open to siblings during school hours. Students are not permitted to bring their own balls (no tennis balls) to use during recess. The school provides equipment for recess and lunch periods.

Board Policy 5145.7

The Board of Education is committed to maintaining a learning environment free from harassment, intimidation or insult, student-to-student or adult-to-student, on the basis of an individual's actual or perceived sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression. Positive action will be taken when necessary to eliminate such practices or remedy their effects.

Sexual harassment, as defined and otherwise prohibited by state and federal statutes, constitutes an unlawful form of sex discrimination in violation of Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In addition, sexual harassment constitutes violation of the California Education Code, regulations of the State Board of Education, and District Policy. As such, sexual harassment may constitute just cause for discipline pursuant to applicable Education Code Sections.

The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the sexual harassment policy:

Portola Springs Elementary School
Megan Bricker, Principal
12100 Portola Springs
Irvine, CA 92618
949-936-8800

In addition to our outstanding general education program, Portola Springs has a variety of other programs and services.

Gifted and Talented Education Program

The GATE Program is available to identified students grades 4-6 with exceptional learning abilities. The program consists of small clusters of identified students within the general education classrooms with a teacher who has been trained in meeting the needs of the gifted student. Appropriately differentiated instruction including depth, complexity, acceleration, and novelty is taught within the core curriculum. You may obtain further information by visiting the Gifted and Talented Education page of the IUSD website at www.iusd.org. All upper grade teachers are fully trained in how to extend the thinking and challenge students.

Psychological Services

The school psychologist provides assistance for behavioral, social/emotional, and cognitive needs of students. Diagnosis of student needs, guidance for students and parents, testing, and consultation are available. Additionally, our Elementary Resource Counselors (ERC) are available to support students in navigating social and emotional needs.

Education Specialist and Learning Center Program

This program is designed to assist children who demonstrate significant deficits in academic skills. A student can qualify for this program by demonstrating a specific learning disability or a significant discrepancy between ability and academic achievement. After a student is identified as qualifying for this program, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is designed to assist the student to make reasonable academic gains utilizing his/her strengths and remediation of weaknesses. This program is designed and implemented by the resource specialist in classrooms and in a one-on-one or small-group learning situation.

Portola Springs also houses Extensive Support Needs (ESN) classes that support students with functional skills and additional supports through their IEP.

Speech and Language Pathologist

This program is designed to diagnose and provide therapy for students who demonstrate difficulty in speech, language development, and language-based skills. Students who qualify for this program have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) designed for them and receive individual or small group assistance as appropriate.

English as a Second Language

Students who have been identified as English Learners receive additional support to assist them in reading, writing, listening, and speaking standards. All teachers are trained in how to support English Learners as they develop in the English skills in the classroom. Some students may also qualify for a Newcomer Program in IUSD that assists with language acquisition for our newest English Learners.

What if I feel my child needs extra support?

At Portola Springs, we pride ourselves in working collaboratively with families. We encourage parents to discuss any concerns with their child’s teacher. Your child’s teacher will always be your best point of communication for anything academic or behavioral. Should your child need extra enrichment or extra sup-ports, Portola Springs has a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) team that gathers data to review student progress at least once a month. This team can discuss any concerns and look into any possible interventions available to your child. We strive to challenge and support every learner at school.

The MTSS team, consisting of administration, school psychologist, EL Coordinator, Intervention Lead Teachers, Tier 3 TOSA, Elementary Resource Counselor (ERC) and other members, meet regularly to evaluate student data and determine what additional supports and strategies can be put in place to support and challenge all learners.

Additionally, the MTSS team can determine if extra interventions are necessary included Extended Learning (6-8 week interventions), Elementary Resource Counselor support, Tier 3 academic intervention, and more.

IUSD makes available to parents a low cost accident and health insurance for their children. Forms are distributed to parents on the first day of school. Additional forms are available in the front office. The desirability of having such a plan can provide benefits and coverage when help is needed.

While we appreciate the joy and excitement that accompanies our students’ birthdays, we do not allow parents to bring food items to their child’s classroom to commemorate their child’s special day. Dietary restrictions, food allergies, and the varied nutritional preferences of our parent population require considerable and deliberate coordination of any event involving food, and we cannot facilitate such oversight for every student’s birthday. Party favors are seen as more appropriate for a private setting, but if strongly desired, a parent may bring non-food items such as pencils, stickers, stamps, etc. for classmates. A more lasting gesture would be the donation of a Birthday Book to our library. Our library/media clerk has excellent suggestions for choosing an appropriate Birthday Book. A special dedication card will be placed in the book. Then, the book will be shared with your student’s class. After that, the book will be placed in the school library as a continuing memory of your child’s special day.

Portola Springs Elementary School promotes a standard of appearance which enhances the learning environment while allowing for reasonable comfort and individuality for all students. With the support of the student’s guardian, each student is expected to appropriately groom and dress themselves, keeping clothing clean, comfortable, and appropriate for all elementary school activities. A student’s clothing should not be a distraction or disruption in the classroom. The following is Portola Springs Elementary School’s Dress Code:

• Shoes should be practical, appropriate and sturdy enough for all school activities, including physical education. For students’ safety, no flip flops, crocs, clogs, open toed sandals or backless shoes, or heelies can be worn at school.
• Approved hats, hoods and caps are acceptable for outside activities only. No headwear may be worn inside the building, except if it is worn for or a special event. This includes hooded sweatshirts.
• No distracting hairstyles or hair colors. No distracting makeup.
• No jewelry that distracts from the educational environment or could be unsafe during physical activities should be worn. Earrings that dangle and could become dangerous when playing. Sunglasses may be worn outside the building.
• Clothing may not contain inappropriate graphics or messages.
• Shirts must be long enough to keep the midriff covered when the arms are raised. Bare midriffs, sheer or see-through clothing, bare backs, off-the-shoulder tops, tank tops, spaghetti straps, muscle shirts, and other revealing garments are not allowed.
• Shorts and pants must be of appropriate size. Overly baggy or saggy pants will not be allowed. No short shorts or skirts. The hemlines should be no higher than mid-thigh (pockets should not hang below the bottoms of shorts).
• Undergarments or boxer shorts must be totally covered by outer clothing. Sleep and loungewear are not appropriate.\

Parents can help monitor the dress code by purchasing clothing that is in good taste; seeing that each child leaves for school properly dressed, and encouraging each child to take pride in his/her appearance. The school will monitor this dress code and inform parents in the event that a student's dress or grooming is not appropriate for school. 

Below is an excerpt IUSD’s Board Policy governing Dress and Personal Appearance: 

Appropriate dress and personal appearance at school and school-related activities shall not include any clothing, attire, or accessory that by its manner of appearance, arrangement, trademark, fit, or any other attribute, is unsafe; disruptive; unhealthful; obscene; profane; ethnically, racially or sexually degrading; libelous or slanderous; exposing undergarments; provocative or revealing; advocating unlawful behavior or illegal substances; or suggesting or promoting any affiliation with any street gang or other group that commits unlawful acts [see Board Policy 5132(a)- Dress and Personal Appearance and Board Policy 5136(a) - Gang Affiliation].

California's Constitution affirms that students and parents cannot be required to pay money to gain access to educational activities, nor can they be charged for materials and supplies necessary to participate in educational activities.

“Educational activities” has been clearly defined to include extracurricular offerings such as music, sports and some clubs. Moreover, the rules described above are believed to apply to all affiliated groups sup-porting district and school programs, including PTAs, boosters and foundations.

In 2010, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against the state over impermissible fees, charges and deposits imposed on public school students. Two years later, Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation that codified existing laws and judicial decisions while establishing reasonable enforcement measures for schools and districts. The ACLU subsequently dropped its suit.

It should be noted that IUSD was in the process of analyzing its own practices even before the ACLU suit, looking specifical-ly at funding requests that were made to help offset the cost of transportation, elective courses, summer school classes and essential supplies and equipment. The district has since worked to clarify that parent donations for most educational activi-ties are voluntary, and that students will not be denied participation if their families choose not to contribute.

For further information, please check the following link on the IUSD website.

We encourage students to wear sunscreen to school. Students participate in activities outside daily including recess and lunch, Physical Education, and learning in our outdoor learning spaces. Students are permitted to bring and apply their own sunscreen, if they are able. Staff is not permitted to assist in application. We also encourage hats and other protective clothing to be worn outdoors.

All visitors and volunteers must check in through the front office– this includes if you are on site to participate in a meeting. Upon your first visit, you will need to have your Driver’s License or Passport to be scanned through our Raptor system. Visitors that are unable to provide this information, will not be permitted on campus. Please note that high volume days (holiday performances, class parties, etc) there may be significant wait time to be scanned. Please have your ID scanned early to save time!

We understand that the location of our school may be near the natural habitat for some animals, including coyotes. To help us prevent any problems please be aware of the following:

• Our school is fully gated on 3 sides (only entrance is through the parking lot). This should discourage wildlife entering the site. A 6 foot high chain link fence, with netting at the base, surrounds the back to protect the playground area.
• The school staff and supervisors are fully trained in how to respond if an animal does enter campus. Students participate in quarterly lockdown drills and will be trained on what to do if they see an animal.
• The back chain link fencing has added netting at the base to prevent snakes from entering.
• It is paramount that your child only be on campus when supervision is present. If your child is dropped off earlier than 7:45 or picked up late, there will not be supervision.
• All food (snacks and lunches) are kept indoors. Additionally, trashcans are only accessible during snack and recess times or kept covered.