Below are answers to questions often asked by Davis School Parents. This list will grow throughout the school year.

Why are the assistants sometimes called upon to substitute when a teacher is out of the classroom for the day?

We are very happy when our own staff members can fill in for a teacher who is absent. Having an adult who knows the routines and the students helps to make for a much more productive day for all the children involved.

When the teachers know that their own assistants will be substituting, they design plans which one adult can easily manage to accomplish with the group of children.

It is also important to note that it is not easy at all to find qualified and reliable substitutes for our schools. We are fortunate to have a small group of great subs at the moment but there are never enough each day to fill the needs of the entire school system. Using the assistants to augment the roster of substitutes allows us to cover all classes each day.

If I am picking my child up, what time should I arrive at school?

If you are picking your child up on a regular school day, you should plan to be waiting in the cafeteria at 3:10 pm. We begin our dismissal at that time so that we have all the children ready to go when the busses arrive at about 3:20.

If you are picking your child up on an early release day, you should plan to be waiting in the cafeteria by 1:40.

It is very helpful to us if you are here waiting for your children so that we can get the cars out of the parking lot/driveways before most of the busses arrive for the rest of the students. Please remember to park only in designated spaces so that traffic can pass freely and safely at this very busy time of day!!!

Why are parents asked not to walk their children to the classroom at the beginning of the school day?

Our teachers have asked that parents not come to the classroom at the beginning of the school day so that they can make it their priority to greet the children and assist them with making the transition to school. When our students arrive, they often have lots to say...lots to bring...lots to ask...and even sometimes are upset or concerned about something. Teachers really want to focus on their needs as they arrive in order to make the beginning of the school day smooth for all of the children. If a parent arrives with a question or concern (or even just to say hello) this can cause the teacher to feel torn - between speaking with the parent and paying attention to the children. So, we find it is much easier to respond to a note or phone call when we can give you our best attention. Additionally, one of our overall goals is promoting and fostering independence in our students. Having students walk to their classroom is another way to provide an opportunity for them to practice doing so!!