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FAQ'S

What is the school's main telephone number?
 
The main number for the Elementary School is (210)368-8800

What time does school begin and end?

The school day begins at 7:45 a.m. and dismisses at 3:10 p.m. Children should not arrive at school before 7:15 a.m. because there is no supervision until this time.

What are the student check in and sign out procedures?

Check in: Students entering the building after 7:45 a.m. must check in with a parent in the office.
 
Check out: When picking up your child(ren) for appointments during the school day, you must stop in the office, one of the secretaries will help you by asking your child to come to the office.
 
Please keep in mind that the last 10 to 15 minutes of the day is a time when most teachers are summarizing the day's activities, planning for the next day and making important announcements. Please do not request that your child(ren) be dismissed after 2:30 p.m.
 
If someone other than the parent is taking the student or there is a change in transportation from school, there must be a signed note from the parent releasing the student to that person.
 
My child forgot his/her homework and I want to drop-off birthday goodies for his class. What should I do with them?
 
Whenever you come to school, whether it be to drop something off or pick up your child, remember, you must stop in the office. One of the secretaries will help you by asking your child to come to the office or seeing that your materials are delivered. If you need to meet with or talk to the teacher, just call them using our online directory as a reference or email them to establish a conference time. They would be happy to meet with you when they can devote all of their attention to you and any questions or concerns.
 
What do I do if I am visiting the school or volunteering? (Volunteers must be approved prior to arrival and only for scheduled events)

We require all students, parents, and visitors enter the building through the front door. Parents and visitors must stop in the office first, sign in using our self-service computer stations, and pick up a visitor/volunteer badge. We appreciate your cooperation and support.
 
We welcome your involvement and encourage you to volunteer in the school and become involved in school and PTO activities. If you are unable to volunteer your time during the school day, there are plenty of other ways to show your support. The Fort Sam Houston Elementary PTO works closely with the staff and plays a valuable role in our total school program. Your membership in support of the PTO is welcomed. Without volunteers, a lot of what we do in school would not be possible.

What if my child is absent? 

It would be great if you could leave a message for your child(ren)'s teacher or send them an email. That way the teacher knows your child will not be coming to school.
 
In addition, due to a directive from the Department of Education, an excuse must be on file for each time your child is absent. If we do not receive a written excuse, the absence will be coded as unexcused. Absence is excused for student illness (specify the reason), death in the family, medical or dental appointments, religious observation and instruction, and educational trips. Please note that absence for personal reasons is NOT excused. Excuse forms are available for your convenience, but any note with the child's name, date of absence, reason for absence and your signature is fine. Please help us by sending a written excuse as soon as your child returns to school after an absence.
 
Can my child take medicine during the school day? 

School district policy requires that parents send a doctor's statement to school, as well as a written statement from the parent, in order for children to take prescribed medication at school. All medications are required to have written documentation stating the dosage requirements. Please contact Nurse Nolen with any questions. 

What should we do if we are moving? 

Please notify the school office (210) 368-8800 as soon as possible.

Can I eat lunch with my child? (Parents are encouraged to check their child out and eat in the front picnic area)
 
Not inside the school building, parents are welcome to eat lunch with their child outside in the picnic area. You can inquire at the office about checking your child out.