Dear Families and Patrons of Birch Elementary,

 

Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year.  It is very exciting to be starting a new school year!   This handbook contains useful information for both parents and students regarding the daily operations of Birch Elementary.  You will find information highlighting some of the school’s policies and guidelines that are necessary for the safety, welfare, and well-being of our students and staff.

 

Birch is proud to have been a part of the accreditation process this past year.  Vallivue School District received accreditation of the entire school district by AdvanceEd.   Birch met the rigorous standards for accreditation.  We are a school that tries very hard to meet the needs of every student academically as well as socially.  We strive to have a positive environment here at Birch; in the classroom, in the hallways, in the cafeteria, and on the playground, particularly by emphasizing mutual respect.  We emphasize character education and through these character traits work to give students appropriate conflict management skills.

 

Parents are the first teachers of children.  Your expertise and experiences are very helpful to us.  Communicating with teachers and staff members helps create an important partnership.  It is this partnership that produces the best results.  We welcome and encourage you to visit as this is your school.  We do ask any visitors to the building to sign in and to wear a Visitor’s Badge.  Even if you are walking your child to class or are in the building for any reason, we ask your cooperation in this matter.  If you wish to visit your child’s classroom or to visit with the teacher, please call ahead and make an appointment so you can be given appropriate attention.

 

Birch has a great staff dedicated to focusing on both academic growth and character education.  With this balance of academic and character education we feel your child will be ready for the opportunities and challenges they encounter today and in their future.  We are very excited for another great year!

 

Ms. Ihli, Principal