Learning Policies at New Schools

We have just moved from Chicago to Dallas. I am worried that when school starts we will not know what the school policies are and what services are offered. How will I find out this information? -- Puzzled
Answer: You definitely need this information, but might not get all of it until after school starts. Most schools put all this information in their handbooks, which are distributed at the beginning of the school year. Fortunately, many now put this information on the school's website. If it is not on the website, you may be able to pick up the handbook when you register your children for the new school year.
When you receive the handbook, read it carefully. Look for answers to the following questions:
--What is the attendance policy?
--How are absences and tardies treated?
--What are the dress and conduct codes?
--How does the school handle discipline problems? What are the punishments for breaking rules? Who carries out disciplinary actions?
--What are the school's policies for keeping parents informed about school schedules, events or problems?
-- How are parents contacted in emergency situations?
--Is there a newsletter?
--What facilities does the school have? Is there a library? What are its hours? How many books does the library have? What kinds? What types of reference books are available for students? Is there access to computers?
--What types of special services does the school offer? Does it offer testing programs for vision, hearing and learning disabilities? Is there a guidance counselor? Is a school nurse available? Is there any kind of supervised before-school or after-school program for students?
--What extracurricular activities are available?