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School Handbook
Lus Hmoob
Recreation Program through Madison School & Community Recreation |
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Lynn Winn |
PTA/O President(s): Jackie Woodruff, (608) 233-6315; Cindy Siefert-Raw, (608) 274-8313; PTO Web Site; falkpto@charter.net
Parent Contact(s): Jackie Woodruff, (608) 233-6315; Cindy Siefert-Raw, (608) 274-8313
High School Attendance Area: Memorial
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The mission of Falk School is to help students develop their maximum potential as independent learners by providing opportunities which challenge, nurture, and promote an understanding of diversity. School-Wide ThemeThis year our theme is "Courage Counts at Falk School." |
[ Site Characteristics ||
Academic Programming ||
School Climate ]
[ Partnerships ||
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Links ]
Falk is a K-5 elementary school located in the Memorial High School attendance area on Madison's southwest side. Two early childhood classes are also housed at Falk School.
Enrollment is approximately 360. The SAGE (Student Achievement Guarantee in Education) grant from the state keeps kindergarten through third grade classes at 15 students.
Students have the option of bringing a lunch or purchasing hot lunch, a prepacked meal including milk. On-site after school care is run by MSCR (Safe Haven).
Falk is primarily a neighborhood school where approximately 90% of the students walk to school.
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Falk students have made significant progress in both primary reading and 3rd grade reading tests.
The Falk curriculum emphasizes basic academic skills and provides enriching experiences to enhance learning. The language arts program involves listening, speaking, viewing, reading, and writing. Mathematics instruction instills skills in problem solving, reasoning, connections to daily living, and the ability to communicate in mathematical terms. The social studies curriculum helps students become informed of a culturally diverse, democratic society. Learning in science is accomplished through high interest, hands-on activities. All aspects of the curriculum stress student inquiry, critical and creative thinking, and the ability to become independent, lifelong learners.
The fully networked computer system is used to support and extend learning in all curricular areas. Students and staff access technology through a computer lab, the library, classrooms, and school office. Students use the World Wide Web, simulations, KidPix, word processing and writing software as well as keyboarding practice, on an age-appropriate basis. Students and staff use the "quick take" camera, scanners, and video editing for expanded classroom opportunities.
The goal of Talented and Gifted (TAG) programming is to make certain K-12 students consistently have learning opportunities that are challenging, systematic and continuous based on learning profile, readiness and student interest.
Student learning experiences include a broad range of opportunities that pushes students to their next level of challenge and allows them to develop their talents. TAG programming may occur in the classroom, or in other settings. TAG programming is determined by ongoing evaluation and assessment of individual student needs. Each school has TAG resource support for ongoing consultation.
Teacher specialists in art, music, and physical education provide regular instruction. REACH (Reinforcing and Enriching Achievement for All CHildren) extends and supports classroom curriculum with computer technology. The library media specialist teaches research skills and provides story time experiences. Fourth and fifth graders may participate in the strings program.
Falk offers full-day kindergarten, Reading Recovery, Title I, special education services, and English as a Second Language (ESL) programming. In addition, support services are provided by the speech/language clinician, psychologist, social worker, nurse, occupational and physical therapist.
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The playground is supervised by staff members 15 minutes before school and during all recesses. An adult crossing guard assists children at the intersection of Hammersley Road and Prairie Road.
Starting in kindergarten, Falk staff teach the skills of empathy, impulse control, social problem solving, and anger management. The importance of appreciating individual differences is emphasized in every grade. Open communication and the use of cooperative activities are encouraged in all classrooms. When differences between children occur, conflict mediation is used. In 5th grade, the COPS program gives students tools to resist violence and drugs.
Falk's "Peace Program" teaches and reinforces expectations of conduct and attitudes that help keep the school a safe and friendly place with a positive learning environment for all.
Special reading programs at Falk include the Vista Schools of Hope volunteers and Reading Buddies. Other programs include Battle of the Books, author visits, library pages and safety patrol. The PTO sponsors a wide variety of cultural arts programs.
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Many Falk parents and guardians volunteer to assist teachers or share their talents and interests in classrooms. Additionally, the Falk PTO is instrumental in supporting numerous special programs such as Book Fair, Fun Fair, Ice Cream Social, Popcorn Friday, and Market Day. To become better informed about school programs and influence school policy, parents meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. for PTO meetings. The meetings include guest speakers on special topics.
Area businesses, organizations, and churches donate time, materials, and support.
In connecting with community organizations, Falk offers numerous after-school programs for students and families.
Falk has a long history of providing quality teacher education for future teachers through the UW-Madison School of Education. UW student teachers, tutors, medical and work-study students contribute to the excellence of the school's academic program.
We welcome prospective students and their families to visit Falk School any day. For more information, call the school office, 204-2180, to arrange a tour.
For answers to any question, or to request materials such as curriculum standards, handbooks, lunch menus, newsletters, etc., call the Falk principal at 204-2180, or fax your request, 204-0479.
We encourage you to talk with parents of our students to learn more about our school. Please see the Principal/Parent Contact information on this web site for current names and phone numbers.
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"Falk School feels like an extension of our family."
-- Falk Parent"The staff has been superb. They seem to work together to create an environment that works well in educating our kids."
-- Falk Parent"I learned so much at Falk. Teachers provided many games, projects, and experiences to make learning come alive. I appreciate the friendships that have lasted for years."
-- Falk Graduate and College Honors Student"It's a great place to make friends."
-- Falk Student"As a parent of two Falk graduates and a second grader, I'm happy with teacher dedication. As a professor in education, I give Falk an 'A.'"
-- Falk Parent"Falk was a great place to develop my creative side. I appreciate the arts recognition I was given."
-- Falk Graduate and College Student"What I'll remember about Falk is the way the faculty cared about the students and made learning fun."
-- Falk Graduate and College Student
Remember, you're "At Home At Falk Elementary School!"
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http://www.madison.k12.wi.us
Last Updated: 2007-07-30
