MUSIC

Our music program presents a general education to all of our students in Grades K-6. General music classes are conducted weekly by our music specialist. Additionally, we are able to support a beginning and advanced band program for students in grades 4 to 6. Our chorus (grades 4-6) gives those students with singing talents the opportunity to expand their talents. The highlights of the programs are presented to our school community at our annual winter and spring concerts.

ART

Our art specialist conducts classes on a weekly basis for all of our students. In addition, students are involved in activities related to their particular creative needs. Special art enrichment activities are afforded to students in the various art media. Students in grade 5 work on a special project involving ceramic tiles highlighting their individual likes to later be displayed permanently in the halls of McKeown.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The physical education program is an integral part of the curriculum for all students. It is a definite and functional medium of education that aims to develop the students’ physical, emotional, and mental capacities to the optimum. Physical education experiences provide students with instruction in activities and skills that have carry-over value to adult life. In an age in which leisure time is decreasing, the physical education program has a responsibility for contributing to the fuller active life of the individual. Students are encouraged to be dressed properly for participation in physical education classes. This is a required program for everyone.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER

Our Library/Media Center supports and enriches the educational programs of the school through the use of books, periodicals, pamphlets, pictures, maps, filmstrips, tapes, as well as computer software and laser discs. With our advancing technology, each student must learn to discover information from many sources. The educational and learning materials available through the Library/Media Center make it possible for students to seek answers to questions and solutions to problems independently. Students are encouraged to learn the use and care of this equipment and material. It is there for them!

SPECIAL ACTIVITIES

Students may be requested to remain after school for special programs or projects. If this is necessary, the parents will be contacted for their consent if prior written permission has not been received.

FAMILY LIFE CURRICULUM

Any child whose parent/guardian presents a signed statement to the Chief School Administrator that any part of the instructions in health or family life education, including AIDS or sex education, is in conflict with his/her conscience or sincerely held moral or religious beliefs, shall be excused from that portion of the curriculum where such instruction is being given. The student shall not be penalized in any way as a result of this request. The curriculum is available from the School Nurse and may be discussed with her if you have further questions.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

The Marian Emmons McKeown School offers complete services for students with special learning disabilities. Upon a request for an evaluation from the staff and/or parents, the Child Study Team members (the Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant, the School Psychologist, and the Social Worker) meet to determine if an evaluation is warranted. If further testing is needed, outside agencies are made available to the parents and student. Children found in need of special services can be placed in our Resource Center for part of the day, or in a regular education class with support or in a pre-school disabilities class. Sometimes it is necessary to place a child outside of our school to meet his/her special needs. We have a speech program for students who may be in need of this service. Also, a counseling program is offered to students by our school psychologist and/or school counselor. Please contact our Child Study Team should you have questions or need more information.

PUPIL ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE

All public schools offer services to students who might require extra support in or replacement of regular classroom instruction. The Pupil Assistance Committee (PAC) meets to brainstorm strategies/interventions to be used by the teacher and parents in working with the students. Please contact our Pupil Assistance Committee (PAC) Coordinator, Diane Hornung, should you require specific information on this service. Parents are informed about all PAC meetings and are encouraged to attend.

SECTION 504

It is the policy of the Hampton Township Board of Education to provide a free and appropriate public education to each student with disabilities within its jurisdiction, regardless of the nature or severity of the disability. It is the intent of the district to ensure that students who are disabled within the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are identified, evaluated, and provided with appropriate educational services. Students may be disabled under this policy even though they do not require services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Due process rights of students with disabilities and their parents under Section 504 will be enforced.