Questions from the Parent Information Meeting
Q. How many days a week will WOLF students be in class and how many will they be “in the field?”
A. It is anticipated that students will spend at least 3 days a week engaged in field experiences designed to study and explore the Ozarks’ natural resources.
Q. What measures will be in place to ensure student safety in the classroom and during field trips?
A. As it is at each of our schools, safety of all those involved in WOLF will be a priority. Because WOLF students will be in surroundings and situations not encountered in a traditional classroom setting, teachers will ensure students are properly trained in relevant safety procedures. Additionally, students and teachers will benefit from the expertise and guidance of various professionals with wide-ranging skill sets.
Q. May parents volunteer at WOLF?
A. Volunteers provide critical support at all our school sites. WOLF will be no different. In order to volunteer, all individuals must be registered and submit to a background check. The volunteer registration form is available at http://sps.k12.mo.us/communication/volunteerprogrammain.htm.
Q. Will WOLF students be able to participate in the school lunch program?
A. Yes. The Food Services Department offers lunch service to several programs that do not have full-service kitchens on site. If students choose to participate, lunches will be delivered to WOLF. However, since students will frequently be “in the field,” they will likely receive sack lunches on those days.
Q. Are there extra fees or supply costs required for WOLF students?
A. There are no special fees to participate in WOLF and the district will supply all instructional equipment and supplies needed on a day-to-day basis. However, students will need appropriate all-weather footwear and clothing for their many outdoor activities. For example: rain gear, waterproof boots, waterproof gloves and sturdy walking shoes. These may amount to more than you normally spend for clothing your child.
Q. Once accepted, if a WOLF student withdraws from the program will he or she be replaced?
A. This will be a decision made by the teachers if and when it occurs based on how far it is into the school year among other factors. If a student is replaced, it will be by another student of the same gender.
Q. Will WOLF students be required to take MAP tests?
A. Yes. They will participate in the same academic testing required of other district 5th graders.
Q. Who will be the principal?
A. This decision has not yet been determined. It likely will be a principal from a nearby school.
Q. Is there a deadline to accept or decline a position at WOLF?
A. It is important for WOLF candidates to decide as soon as possible whether they will participate so confirmed students and their parents can attend meetings and begin preparing for the first day of school.
Q. Can WOLF students continue to participate in their “home” school’s activities?
A. WOLF will be the home school for the 50 students who participate in the program.
Q. Will afterschool tutoring and afterschool childcare be available?
A. If there is sufficient need or interest, these programs may be offered. This will be determined after the candidates are selected and the number of students desiring these programs is known.
Q. Will WOLF students have recess?
A. There are several areas available indoors and outdoors at the WOW Educational Center that are currently being considered for recreational use.
Q. How will the actual WOLF classroom be set up?
A. The physical appearance of the classroom will be similar to a middle school science lab. It is also likely that the two classrooms will be joined by a moveable partition to allow the classes to collaborate when appropriate.
Q. Will there be a way for parents to identify others for potential carpooling efforts?
A. Once candidates are selected, an informational meeting will be held for parents and students. At this time, parents will have an opportunity to identify others interested in carpooling.
Q. Will WOLF students who currently receive special services (special education, WINGS, tutoring etc.) continue to receive those services?
A. If a student currently participating in special services is selected for WOLF it is likely a conference would be set up with the parents, WOLF teachers and special services staff to determine how best to meet that specific student’s needs.
Q. Do grades factor into a student’s eligibility for WOLF?
A. A student’s grades will neither help nor hinder his or her chances of being admitted to WOLF. Eligibility is based solely on satisfactory attendance and behavior.
Q. How will WOLF students be graded?
A. WOLF teachers will assess the performance and progress of WOLF students based on the same standards they would use in a typical 5th grade classroom.
Q. If my child participates in WOLF instead of WINGS during his or her 5th grade year, may he or she return to the gifted program in 6th grade?
A. Once a student qualifies for gifted education he or she may reapply for participation in WINGS at any time. The student does not have to be reevaluated. Students who want to participate in the Middle Years Scholars Program beginning in 6th grade must apply during their 5th grade year. In the fall, letters are sent to parents of all 5th grade students who have qualified for gifted education in the past. This letter will outline the procedures for application. If you do not receive the letter by Oct. 1, contact Phelps Center for the Gifted, 523-3300, to request an application packet.
Q. Will there be a school computer lab and library available at WOLF?
A. It has yet to be determined how these services will be provided to WOLF students. However, they will receive the same advantages of library, computers, art, music, physical education, etc. that other 5th graders receive.
Q. If my child has been involved in KUBS or participated in another educational program that does not provide a traditional grade card, what alternative information should be attached to the WOLF application?
A. Ask the student’s teacher or person responsible for the student’s education to complete and sign the Supplemental WOLF Application. Submit the completed form along with the student’s WOLF application by 5 p.m. Friday, April 4.