Norwalk Community, Parents, and Students:

As we prepare for the 2023-2024 school year, our theme of 'Belong' resonates with me on a personal level. Being new to the Norwalk School Community, it is crucial for me to have a sense of belonging and to feel like a valued member of a larger school community. Aidan Harder, our student school board representative, proposed this theme for the upcoming school year, and I greatly appreciate his efforts in this regard.

There are many reasons why 'belong' is a powerful theme. Aidan mentioned a few during his proposal to me this past spring. Belonging or becoming part of a larger community gives individuals a sense of purpose and meaning. Another powerful reason Aidan mentioned was the importance of remembering that, despite current societal tensions, we still belong to each other as Norwalk students, staff and community. As someone new to the Norwalk community, like myself, how can I create that sense of belonging? How can those who have strong connections in our school community give others a sense of belonging? Our student representative proposed a few ways: building intentional connections, seeking input from others with an open mind, and engaging in meaningful story sharing.

Our Leader In Me initiative also aligns with our 2023-2024 theme of 'belong'. Over the past few years, the Norwalk Community School District has dedicated significant efforts to implement the Leader In Me initiative, which has had a tremendously positive impact on our students and staff. This initiative focuses on developing leadership skills and empowering students to take ownership of their learning and personal growth. By instilling the principles of responsibility, collaboration, and critical thinking, the Leader In Me program equips our students with the necessary tools to thrive in an ever-changing world.

I am pleased to announce that our Lakewood Elementary building achieved Lighthouse status in the spring of 2023. This prestigious recognition is granted by the Leader In Me organization and represents the highest level of implementation and excellence in the program. It reflects the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our staff, students, and parents in creating a culture of leadership and character development within our school. I eagerly anticipate observing the positive strides our other buildings will make this year towards achieving Lighthouse status.

As the 2023-2024 school year commences, I strongly encourage open communication and active participation from our school community. I will be readily available to listen to your ideas, aspirations, and positive suggestions on how we can advance our district. Together, we can foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. In conclusion, I am deeply honored to be a part of the Norwalk Community School District. In the short time I have been a member of our community, it is evident that there is an immense sense of pride among our residents.

Respectfully,

Shawn Holloway

Norwalk CSD Superintendent

*Thursday, August 24th and Friday, August 25th are early dismissal days.

An annual registration must be completed for ALL students (returning and new). Parents can register students www.norwalkschools.org by clicking on “Menu” at the top right of the district homepage and selecting "Parent Portal" at the bottom of the page under "Quick Links" to log into their Parent Portal account.

Parents should register all students that will be returning in 23-24 by logging into their Parent Portal account. After completing the registration, go to the online fees payment link under “Quick Links” on norwalkschools.org and select “RevTrak”. The District will accept debit or credit card payments with no transaction fees.

MOVING

If you are moving and your student will be attending another school district this fall, please email enrollment@norwalkschools.org. This notification will help both Norwalk Schools and the new district of residence of your student’s pending enrollment. If you are moving within the Norwalk School District please make sure to update your new address within the online registration.

NOTICE FOR PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION

Parents enrolling a preschool or kindergarten student(s) should click on the "Add New Student" button on the "Student" tab for each PK or K student to enroll. Online registration does not recognize students as returning students until they have completed Kindergarten.

TRANSPORTATION REQUESTS, INCLUDING PAY-FOR-RIDE

Parents request transportation through online registration. Pay-for-Ride students will be processed first on a first-come-first serve basis. Fees will be applied in Revtrak's fee management system as requests are processed. Transportation requests received after 08-01-23 may not be placed on a bus route until 09-09-23. Bus passes are scheduled to be mailed on or around 08-15-23. All students are required to have a bus pass to board the bus.

All student registration fees for the household must be paid in full before parents are eligible to purchase optional school services such as Pay-for-Ride Transportation or Student and Family Activity Passes.

Click here to view student fees: 2023-2024 Student Fees

Click here to pay student fees and registration.

Revtrak Student Fee Payment System

Revtrak's student fee payment system is online. Below are the instructions to access and pay your student fees. There is also a video demo to walk you through the steps visually. 

Step 1) Go to https://norwalk.revtrak.net to access the Norwalk portal. 

Step 2) Login using your current Revtrak account. Create an account if you're a new user.

Step 3) Select the "Student Fee Payments" box. 

Step 4) On the left side toolbar select "Add student" NOTE: this step is only applicable for your first login. Once a student has been added to your account, you will skip this step. 

Step 5) Enter "Student ID" - To find a student ID number; go to the parent portal (from the Norwalk homepage), click on "Today" tab, student ID number will display immediately to the right of your student's picture at the top of the screen. 

Step 6) Enter "PIN". This will be the same number as your student ID. 

Step 7) Add fees to cart. 

Step 8) Make payment. 

To access the video walkthrough, click this link.  

If you have any questions or concerns please email revtrak@norwalk.k12.ia.us.

Transportation Change Request Form

Add/Drop/Location Changes Due August 1, 2023 to Guarantee Busing on the First Day of School 

Parents request transportation through online registration. Pay-for-Ride students will be processed first on a first-come-first serve basis. Fees will be applied in Revtrak's fee management system as requests are processed. Transportation requests received after 08-01-23 may not be placed on a bus route until 09-09-23. Bus passes are scheduled to be mailed on or around 08-15-23. All students are required to have a bus pass to board the bus.

Warriors,

If your student(s) plan to participate in student athletics or activities, please complete the athletic registration on the Norwalk Athletic Registration website.

Activity passes for adults, family and students can be purchased through RevTrak. For more information, please see the Norwalk Athletics & Activities website.

Family Activity Pass: Two Adults and Children grades K-5 - $225

Single Adult Activity Pass - $100

Single Student Activity Pass (Grade 6-12) - $50

Congratulations to our Warrior softball and baseball teams on great seasons! 

4A Third Place State Finish: Norwalk Softball Defeats Fort Dodge 5-0!

Photo Credits: Lynda Downs and Norwalk Parents

Nutrition FAQ's

Information regarding meal service and the Nutrition Department can be located on the District Webpage. Click Menu/Departments/Nutrition. However, the most frequently asked questions regarding the cafeteria are answered below.

• Where can I find the menus? Lunch menus can be located on the district website. Look for the “menu” quick link. However, due to supply chain disruptions, Nutri-Slice will contain the most up to date menu options. 

• What is Nutri-Slice? Nutri-Slice is a district related app that shows common food allergens and specific nutrient information for the food we serve. Look for more detailed information under the Nutrition tab of the website.

• How do I make meal payments? Online credit card or debit card meal account payments are made at norwalk.revtrak.net. You will click Cyber-Soft Food Service Payments on the left-hand side of the screen. Each student has their own meal account. Cash or check payments can also be made in the cafeterias for grades 6-12 during meal service and at each elementary school office. (Please be sure to include the student’s name/lunch money on the outside of the envelope.)

• What is School Café? School Café is a tool that allows parents to apply for meal assistance benefits, set meal account restrictions, register for low balance email alerts, and monitor your student’s transaction history. Middle School students will be located under Norwalk High School when adding your student to your School Café account due to the shared cafeteria.

• K-12 Student Breakfast: $2.15 Reduced Priced Breakfast: K-12 $.30 Adult Breakfast: $2.60

• K-5 Elementary Lunch: $3.10 Grades 6-12 Lunch: $3.20 K-12 Reduced-Priced Lunch: $.40 Adult Lunch: $4.85

• How do I reach the Nutrition Department? Our direct telephone line is 515-981-9876. We are here to help!

WE ARE HIRING!

The Nutrition Department would love to hire smiling, positive and upbeat employees to join our nutrition team. Currently, our open positions are listed on our district website: https://www.applitrack.com/norwalkcsd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Nutrition+Services

Minimum starting pay is $16.60 per hour, or more depending on experience. Full-time positions include benefits. Hours are great for parents/grandparents/guardians of school-aged children. No experience is necessary. Please apply online. Both full and part-time openings are available. If you have any questions, please contact: DeeAnna Serres, Nutrition Department Director at deeanna.serres@norwalkschools.org or via telephone at (515) 981-9876. 

Our local Wellness Committee is also seeking interested students/parents/community members to participate on our School Improvement Advisory Committee/Wellness. If you are interested, please reach out to Wellness Committee DeeAnna Serres (deeanna.serres@norwalkschools.org) for more information.

Kindergarten Parents

Parents of 2023-24 kindergarten students - the Iowa Immunization Law requires that immunizations be on file with the school before your child enters school on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. If you have not already done so, please bring this to the District Office dropbox (right outside the front door) as soon as possible OR upload the immunization through the online registration process.

Student Immunization Records Required This School Year

Per the Iowa Department of Public Health, each student attending school in Iowa must obtain all the State required vaccinations and provide records before starting school.

Norwalk CSD will enforce this law this coming school year. Therefore, if immunization records are not completed and submitted to your child’s school nurse, your child will NOT be allowed to attend school until such records are provided.

The only exceptions are if a parent/guardian provides one of the following:

1. a medical exemption form
2. a religious exemption form
3. documentation that their child has received at least one dose of the required vaccines but has not completed all the required immunizations. A provisional certificate may be written by the school nurse. (Note: This provisional enrollment only lasts up to 60 calendar days, after which exclusion would still occur if no records are received.)

Remember, this must be done by the time school starts (August 23) otherwise your child will not be allowed to start school until the required immunization forms, exemption forms, or provisional forms are completed and received by the school nurse.

If you need more information, please visit the NCSD school nurse webpage, contact your child’s school nurse, or contact Aimee Rhode, Director of Student Services at aimee.rhode@norwalkschools.org at the district office.

PARA INTERVIEW DAY

July 31st & Aug. 2nd

The NCSD Para Interview Day will be hosted again this summer at Orchard Hills Elementary on July 31st & Aug. 2nd! If you love working with children and enjoy education, consider being a paraeducator and making a difference in a child’s life!

When: July 31 & Aug 2 from 9 AM-6PM. Please RSVP for an appointment, walk-ins are accepted. 

Where: Orchard Hills Elementary School, 1130 W. North Avenue, Norwalk, IA 50211

Pay Range: $15.50-$16.50 (based on experience) Benefits offered to full-time employees.

Apply online at www.norwalkschools.org 

Questions: Tiffany Yacovazzi, HR Generalist

tiffany.yacovazzi@norwalkschools.org

District Notices and Policies

Corporal Punishment, Restraint, and Physical Confinement

Iowa Law (IAC 281 - 103.7) has established rules preventing school districts from using corporal punishment. Additionally, these rules establish parameters by which students can be restrained or confined - namely to prevent imminent harm to persons (oneself or others)

or property.

In the rare instance a student needs to be restrained or confined, the law limits why, how, where, and for how long a school employee may restrain or confine and detain a child. Additionally, the district must maintain documentation of such events as well as attempt to

provide notice to the child’s parents the same day and provide documentation within three school days.

A complete text of the law and additional information is available on the Iowa Dept. of Education website: https://educateiowa.gov/pk-12/learner-supports/seclusion-and-restraint

If you have questions about this state law, please contact Aimee Rhode, Director of Student Services at the district office: (515) 981-0676 or aimee.rhode@norwalkschools.org

SIAC Committee

The School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) has been one of the great leadership opportunities for parents and citizens in the Norwalk School District. Many avenues exist to look at our programs and suggest improvements through SIAC.

SIAC is composed of over 120 citizens and staff. Most of the “big picture” changes in Norwalk come from recommendations from these groups. There are two major meetings each year for the entire group and several smaller meetings for subcommittees.

If interested, please contact Superintendent Shawn Holloway at (515) 981-0676 or

shawn.holloway@norwalkschools.org

Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination

BP102.E1

It is the policy of the Norwalk Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Dr. Jody Ratigan, 380 Wright Road, Norwalk, IA 50211, (515) 981-0676, jody.ratigan@norwalkschools.org

Title IX BP106

In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, the Norwalk Community School District prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment as defined by the regulations implementing Title IX against any individual participating in any education program or activity of the District. This prohibition on discrimination applies to and protects students, employees, and applicants for employment. BP106.

*All school board policies can be found by clicking on “District” then “School Board” then “Board Policies.”

Norwalk Community School District Equal Education Opportunity Policy

It is the goal of the board to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in the students enrolled in the school district. Each student attending school will have the opportunity to use its education program and services as a means for self-improvement and individual growth. In so doing, the students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that assures each student the same educational opportunity.

The Norwalk Community School District does not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. The belief in equal educational opportunity serves as a guide for the board and employees in making decisions relating to school district facilities, employment, selection of educational materials, equipment, curriculum, and regulations affecting students. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Dr. Jody Ratigan, Norwalk Community School District, 380 Wright Road, Norwalk, IA 50211, (515) 981-0676, jody.ratigan@norwalkschools.org.

How to File a Harassment/Discrimination Complaint:

*The Norwalk CSD will follow all Title IX regulations. For questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Jody Ratigan, Human Resources,  jody.ratigan@norwalkschools.org

**For a complete list of our School Board Policies, please go to our website**

Release of Student Records

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. More information about the release of students records may be found here:

Board Policy 506.01 EDUCATION RECORDS ACCESS

Board Policy 506.01E8 ANNUAL NOTICE

Board Policy 506.02 RELEASE OF STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION

Abuse of Students Notice

Physical or sexual abuse of students, including inappropriate and intentional sexual behavior, by employees will not be tolerated. The definition of “employees” for the purpose of this policy includes not only those who work for pay but also those who are volunteers of the school district under the direction and control of the school district. Employees found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge. The school district will respond promptly to allegations of abuse of students by school district employees by investigating or arranging for the investigation of an allegation. The processing of a complaint or allegation will be handled confidentially to the maximum extent possible. Employees are required to assist in the investigation when requested to provide information and to maintain the confidentiality of the reporting and investigation process. The school district has appointed a Level I investigator and alternate Level I investigator. The school district has also arranged for a trained, experienced professional to serve as the Level II investigator. The Level I investigator will be provided training in the conducting of an investigation at the expense of the school district. The names and telephone numbers of the investigators shall be listed in the student handbook, published annually in the local newspaper and posted in all school facilities.

If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Aimee Rhode, Director of Student Services at 380 Wright Road, Norwalk, IA 50211, (515) 981-0676, aimee.rhode@norwalkschools.org or Dr. Jody Ratigan, Human Resources at jody.ratigan@norwalkschools.org.

**For a complete list of our School Board Policies, please go to our website**

Bullying Information

“Bullying” is a term that is often used in today’s society to describe many situations. As a parent, or a student, it is difficult to know what bullying is and whether or not it is occurring in the social interactions your child is experiencing.

Norwalk CSD has developed a bullying webpage to help students and parents better understand what bullying and harassment are and what to do if either is happening. Concerns about bullying or harassment are taken seriously and will be dealt with in a timely manner.

It is vital that parents and students work together with school staff to help resolve these concerns.

Please visit the following webpage for more information: https://www.norwalkschools.org/anti-bullyingharassment/

Students In Extreme Living Situations

Do you know of a child or family who lives in any of the following situations:

• Doubled up with other people due to loss of housing or financial hardship
• In a shelter
• In a motel or campground due to the lack of an alternative option
• In a car, park, abandoned building, or bus or train station

If so, the school-age child may qualify for certain rights and protections under the federal McKinney-Vento Act. Please contact Aimee Rhode, Director of Student Services at 981-0676 x 4011 at the district office for more information and help.

Questions about FERPA or the PPRA should be direct to the Family Policy Compliance Office of the U.S. Department of Education at (202) 260-3887 or FERPA@ED.Gov.

Model notification of rights under FERPA (to be sent to families of elementary and secondary students): https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/resources/ferpa-model-notification-rights-elementary-secondary-schools

Model Notification of Directory Information under FERPA: https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/resources/model-notice-directory-information

Model Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA):

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qfgd0E0HZC0FxCQJnZICq4ytf3HcxE8H/view?usp=sharing

Norwalk Schools Pest Management Spraying Notification

The Norwalk Schools implements an integrated pest management program for all school owned green space. This program includes aerating, dethatching, mowing trimming, mulching and spraying for pests. Spraying for pests includes fertilization, pre-emergent crabgrass control, post & pre-emergent weed control, and weed control along all fence lines and buildings. Any resident that has property that is adjacent to school property and wishes to be notified 24 hours in advance of any pest control should contact Karin Stewart, Buildings and Grounds Administrative Assistant at karin.stewart@norwalkschools.org or Richard Sleeth, Buildings and Grounds Director at richard.sleeth@norwalkschools.org. All individuals or groups that might use school grounds for any function should watch for “keep off chemically treated” signs. These signs are placed on treated green space for 24 hours after treatment.

If you see these signs you should stay off that particular green space until the signs are removed. We take this task seriously and have a commitment to keep our environment safe. The district has two licensed pest treatment employees. Pest treatment is always our last line of defense and we use it sparingly in our integrated pest management program.

Medication in School Policy

Only a Certified Medication Administrator or the School Nurse will administer prescribed medicine to students.

1. Some chronic health conditions, allergies, and illnesses may require students to take medicine at school. In such cases, the nurse will need written notification signed by the family physician or prescription label and note from parents.

2. Medication must be brought in the original container labeled with the child’s name, name of medication, dosage, time to be administered, and route of administration.

3. The child should bring only the prescribed amount of medicine for that illness. Over the counter medications will be given only with written permission from parents.

4. Forms for giving medicine at school, including non-prescribed medication, may be picked up at any building or copied from the district website www.norwalkschools.org under the “Parent” and “School Nurse Information” tabs, or contact the school nurse directly in your child’s school building.

Parents will need to be responsible for bringing, and picking up medication to and from the nurse’s office/school office. Please do not assume that the student will bring medication to the office. If you choose to send medication to school with your student, please notify

the school nurse before sending. Before sending medication to school, please check the label; If ordered three times a day - please give before school, after school, and at bedtime.

**For a complete list of our School Board Policies, please go to our website**

During this time of uncertainty, we know that many families and staff in your district may have questions about and be looking for child care options for the upcoming fall semester. We understand as you make plans to resume school this fall, however that may look for your district, you may have teachers, staff, and families with child care questions and concerns. We can help!

CCR&R is your resource for all things child care. Our free and confidential Parent Referral Team can assist families in trying to find a child care provider that meets their individual needs and schedules. Families can also access free educational materials to aid in their child care search such as sample interview questions to ask, health and safety things to look for in programs and information on quality initiatives for child care programs. We also work with child care home programs, Department of Education Preschool programs and DHS licensed centers and school age programs and may be able to help answer questions about opening or expanding child care options. Parent Referral services can be accessed at 855-244-5301.

Our website www.iowaccrr.org can also provide more information about all the services we provide to parents, child care programs and communities.