FAQ

My child is sick and is not in school today, what should I do?

Call the main office only if the absence lasts two or more days. If your child is absent for three or more consecutive days, please be sure to send a note explaining the reason for the absence when your child returns to school.  When appropriate, include a doctor’s note indicating the reason for an extended absence. Sending a note does not erase the absence, it just provides information so that the absence can be properly coded.  

I need to pick my child up before dismissal.  What should I do?

Parents must come to the Main Office and sign their child out by 2:00 p.m. Students are only released to adults who are listed on the child’s blue emergency card. Please try to schedule doctor and dental appointments after school hours. Children miss important instruction when they are out of school.

Where are students dismissed?

Pre-K students are dismissed at 2:35. All other students are dismissed at 2:40 PM.  For dismissal locations and procedures CLICK HERE.

I have questions regarding my child, what should I do?

Always address classroom questions or concerns with your child’s teacher. Please send in a note requesting a meeting/phone call.  Let the teacher know the best way to contact you (phone, email, etc.) and days/times you are available. Please do not try to talk to the teacher at arrival or dismissal.  Teachers begin instruction immediately following arrival. In the afternoon, teachers should not be interrupted while they are responsible for safely dismissing their students.

If your concerns are not classroom-related, please contact the Main Office to be directed to an Administrator that can help.

How can I keep abreast of important school dates and upcoming events?

The PTA sends out a weekly Eblast with reminders about important school dates, such as photo day, testing days or days off school–as well as PTA events such as the Fall Festival or Auction. To receive the Eblast, please send an email to the YCS Main Office at mainoffice@yorkvillecommunityschool.org

How can I find out what is going on in my child’s classroom?

At the beginning of the year, you will receive a letter of introduction from your child’s teacher with routines and plans for the upcoming school year.  Other ways to keep in touch are by checking your child’s Take Home Folder every day and joining us for events such as Family Friday and Curriculum Night. You will also have the opportunity to schedule a Parent-Teacher conference in November and March.  Class Parents liaison between the teacher and classroom families and will send out important emails and flyers about upcoming school events.

How can I keep track of my child’s attendance, test scores, etc.?

Use your NYC Schools account to access key information about your child’s progress in school, including attendance, report card grades, general student information, and test scores (new) in one of ten languages on a computer, phone or tablet. To access your account, contact the YCS Main Office at mainoffice@yorkvillecommunityschool.org for your child’s ID number and a temporary password (for first time log in). Log in at: http://schools.nyc.gov/myaccount.  

 Can I volunteer to help in the classroom or at school?

Yes! Parent engagement is vital to the success of our school and there are a variety of ways you can join us in making YCS great. Parents with limited time can volunteer at specific short-term events (like our Cupcake Social or Fall Festival) or help in an ongoing way as a class parent, library volunteer, etc. To learn more and get involved email mainoffice@yorkvillecommunityschool.org.

Can my child have school lunch once in a while and how do I pay?

As of September 2017, breakfast and lunch is free for all students. 

Please note that ALL parents must fill out the Lunch Program application in order for YCS to receive the appropriate allocation of federal Title 1 dollars and to determine the eligibility of children for certain rights and services under the No Child Left Behind Act. CLICK HERE for more info. to complete the form online.

What time does my child have lunch/recess this year?

GRADE

LUNCH

RECESS

KINDERGARTEN

10:35 – 11:00

11:00 – 11:25

FIRST

11:00 – 11:25

10:35 – 11:00

SECOND

11:25 – 11:50

11:50 – 12:15

THIRD

11:50 – 12:15

11:25 – 11:50

FOURTH

12:15 – 12:40

12:40 – 1:05

Is recess outside every day?  What about days when the temperature is below freezing?

The NYC DOE states that outdoor play is permitted regardless of the temperature when weather and yard conditions are appropriate. If it is cold outside, please make sure your child has appropriate outerwear for outdoor play (hats, gloves, etc.).  In the event of rain or snow, indoor recess is in our gym.

How can I join the YCS PTA?

Every parent is automatically a member of the YCS PTA and is welcome at all PTA General Membership meetings (noted on the school calendar).  There are no fees or annual dues to join. The PTA does ask each family for a contribution that helps support YCS enrichment programs.  No donation amount is too small–please give what you can. Our goal is 100% participation!