Student-Parent Handbook
Transcription
Student-Parent Handbook
Snowy Range Academy Student-Parent Handbook 2015-2016 SRA Guiding Philosophy As parents, we are responsible for our children's education . . . choose wisely. SRA is guided by its core philosophy and curricula, described in our charter. We value how children learn in different stages of development. Therefore, we use the early years to impart knowledge and literacy skills as a foundation for advanced problem-solving and thinking skills. Briefly, these are the standards we seek to maintain in our school: Our Academic Program: The main goal of our curriculum and teaching is to sustain high academic standards and to enable students to achieve their fullest intellectual potential. We believe that class time should focus on academics (language arts, science, music, art, math, history, geography, and foreign language). We believe in a phonics-first language arts program (Spalding). The priority for grades K-2 is to build children's foundation in literacy. We value "high time on task," which means arranging classroom instruction to maximize student learning and minimize distraction. Daily instruction is planned and organized. Teachers continually seek to engage all students. The majority of delivery should utilize the Direct Instruction method--teacher is teaching or actively directing and guiding student activities. Teacher ensures that all class activities have a curricular focus. Teachers aim to "teach to the top third," which means setting high expectations so that all students are challenged and support is provided for struggling students. Teacher uses high level questioning of students during instruction, and assignments challenge students to demonstrate knowledge of content. Teachers coordinate with next grade level teacher to ensure that expectations appropriately increase each year. Teachers teach and scaffold organizational skills, especially in grades 3-9. Struggling students are supported through before or after school tutoring, parent support at home, one-on-one teacher/literacy teacher support during specials and recess, and individualized reading plan. We believe that academic instruction is the school's main job, that teachers are the most important part of the school, and that parents and the administration must support teachers in their delivery of content. The administration supports teachers through competitive compensation and professional development. Teaching time is reserved for the delivery of content, with a minimum of interruption for assemblies or other non-academic activities. Teachers should plan and direct the educational program for their classes following the requirements of SRA's curriculum. High expectations and high time on task should be consistent in every subject and every classroom. Teachers should use before-and after-school time to assist students with reaching their educational goals through tutoring and one-on-one time. We believe that SRA's consistent, school-wide discipline system is a valuable element in maintaining effective classroom environments and encouraging the development of good character. Character Education, Discipline, and Parent-School Responsibility: We believe that children must be deliberately instructed to good behavior. While it is the parents' role to address certain social and moral issues at home, we believe it is the role of this school to define and expect high standards of character and behavior. SRA has an established set of values and virtues to which students, teachers, staff members, and volunteers are expected to adhere. Behavioral expectations are consistent throughout the school and must not vary from teacher to teacher. Character development should occur as part of the academic program (for example, reflecting on the values of historical figures or literary characters). Teachers, administrators, and parents should model, encourage and reinforce our values through their own actions. We believe that SRA's "ticket/signature" system of discipline is the best way to preserve the academic atmosphere of the classroom, balance parent responsibility with school requirements, and encourage the development of self-discipline in children. We expect parents to learn how the system works, and to support teachers in using it. We believe teachers must teach the Core Knowledge sequence in an unbiased, factual manner, leaving personal opinions out of the lesson, and encouraging students to discuss controversial topics with their parents. Teachers will communicate regularly with parents about academic content being covered, upcoming projects and tests, and their students' progress. Parents will take responsibility for staying abreast of school activities. Teachers will communicate, and parents will take responsibility for being aware of, the introduction of potentially controversial academic topics (such as human sexuality, world religions, drugs/tobacco/alcohol use, etc.). SRA was started by parents, and the majority of governing board are parents. We believe that SRA's future is ensured when parents step up to assume responsibility for protecting the school's distinctive mission and vision by learning about the history, philosophy, and organization of the school, and by serving as Board members, committee members, and activity volunteers. 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................................. 4 SECTION I: GENERAL INFORMATION .......................................................................................... 6 SCHOOL PERSONNEL......................................................................................................................................... 6 ADMINISTRATION ................................................................................................................................................................... 6 INSTRUCTORS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6 SUPPORT STAFF ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6 TELEPHONE NUMBERS ...................................................................................................................................... 6 WEB ADDRESS .................................................................................................................................................. 6 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ...................................................................................................................................... 7 DAILY SCHEDULE............................................................................................................................................... 7 SECTION II: OVERVIEW OF SNOWY RANGE ACADEMY ........................................................... 9 PHILOSOPHY ............................................................................................................................................... 9 VISION STATEMENT ................................................................................................................................................................ 9 MISSION .................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 MISSION STATEMENT: Academic Excellence, Character Education, and Fairness for All. .......................................... 9 PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS ...................................................................................................................................................... 9 CHARTER SCHOOLS .................................................................................................................................... 9 ACADEMIC PROGRAM .............................................................................................................................. 10 CORE KNOWLEDGE................................................................................................................................................................ 10 SPALDING METHOD LANGUAGE ARTS ............................................................................................................................... 10 SAXON MATH .......................................................................................................................................................................... 11 SPECIAL PROGRAMS .............................................................................................................................................................. 11 ELECTIVES .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11 9TH GRADE CURRICULUM .................................................................................................................................................... 11 MIDDLE SCHOOL CREDITS ................................................................................................................................................... 11 TEACHERS AND PROFESSIONALISM................................................................................................................................... 12 STUDENT ACCOUNTABILITY ................................................................................................................................................ 12 SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES ......................................................................................................................................... 12 TUTORING SERVICES ............................................................................................................................................................ 12 PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT/VOLUNTEERS........................................................................................................................... 13 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ................................................................................................................................................ 14 SECTION III: SCHOOL POLICIES ................................................................................................. 15 ACADEMICS-FOCUSED SCHOOL DAY.................................................................................................... 15 ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY ............................................................................................................. 16 SNOWY RANGE ACADEMY HONOR CODE .......................................................................................................................... 16 CODE OF CONDUCT............................................................................................................................................................... 16 VIOLATIONS OF THE HONOR CODE ................................................................................................................................... 18 THE HONOR BOARD .............................................................................................................................................................. 18 SCHOOL POLICIES .................................................................................................................................... 20 ATTENDANCE AND TARDINESS ........................................................................................................................................... 20 BATHROOM ACCIDENTS ....................................................................................................................................................... 21 BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL ............................................................................................................................................ 21 4 BOOKS ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 CHILDCARE POLICY FOR SCHOOL EVENTS ....................................................................................................................... 23 COMMUNICATION .................................................................................................................................................................. 24 DISCIPLINE POLICY AND SCHOOL RULES ......................................................................................................................... 25 DRUG OR ALCOHOL OFFENSES ........................................................................................................................................... 30 ELECTIVES .............................................................................................................................................................................. 30 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................................................. 31 ENROLLMENT, WAITING LIST, AND LOTTERY.................................................................................................................. 32 FIELD TRIPS............................................................................................................................................................................ 34 GRIEVANCES ........................................................................................................................................................................... 36 HARASSMENT/HAZING/BULLYING ...................................................................................................................................... 38 HEALTH .................................................................................................................................................................................... 41 HOMEWORK ............................................................................................................................................................................ 46 JEANS DAY .............................................................................................................................................................................. 48 LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS ............................................................................................................................................... 49 LIBRARY POLICY .................................................................................................................................................................... 49 LOCKERS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 49 LOST AND FOUND.................................................................................................................................................................. 50 LUNCH...................................................................................................................................................................................... 50 PARKING LOT PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................................ 51 PROMOTION POLICY AND GRADES .................................................................................................................................... 53 RECESS .................................................................................................................................................................................... 53 RETENTION POLICY .............................................................................................................................................................. 53 SCHOOL PICTURES ................................................................................................................................................................ 55 SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS POLICY ......................................................................................................................................... 55 SECURITY ................................................................................................................................................................................ 55 STUDENT PLANNERS ............................................................................................................................................................. 55 SUSPENSION & EXPULSION ................................................................................................................................................. 55 TECHNOLOGY CONDITIONS, RULES AND ACCEPTABLE USE ......................................................................................... 56 TOBACCO-, DRUG-, AND ALCOHOL-FREE CAMPUS .......................................................................................................... 59 TOYS, MAKE-UP, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AT SCHOOL ............................................................................................ 59 TRANSPORTATION ................................................................................................................................................................ 59 UNIFORM CODE ..................................................................................................................................................................... 61 VISITS TO SCHOOL ............................................................................................................................................................... 68 WEAPONS AT SCHOOL .......................................................................................................................................................... 68 SECTION IV: SCHOOL GOVERNANCE .......................................................................................... 68 SECTION V: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ................................................................................. 70 ASBESTOS FREE FACILITY ................................................................................................................................................... 70 THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) ................................................................................ 71 THE CHILD CARE WEATHER WATCH CHART ................................................................................................. 73 ***PLEASE NOTE: All revisions for 2015-2016 are bold and underlined. 5 SECTION I: GENERAL INFORMATION SCHOOL PERSONNEL To leave a voice mail message for a staff member press: ADMINISTRATION Principal Operations Manager Office Manager INSTRUCTORS Kindergarten A Kindergarten B 1st Voice Mail Ext. E-MAIL 11 wilsond@acsd1.org 33 mrovani@acsd1.org 22 chubenthal@acsd1.org Mrs. Dawn Wilson Mrs. Margarita Rovani Mrs. Cheryl Hubenthal 13 28 15 sdonner@acsd1.org atoll@acsd1.org tjacobsen@acsd1.org 16 17 msmerud@acsd1.org mswitzer@acsd1.org 18 37 37 35 36 19 36 K-6th Spanish 7th-9th Spanish Art Music Physical Education Library Speech/Language Resource Room Literacy Technology Para- K Para- 3-4 Mrs. Shelly Donner Ms. Amanda Toll Mrs. Patricia Jacobsen Mrs. Brianna Wagman Mrs. Megan Smerud Ms. Megan Switzer Mrs. Brianna Wagman Mrs. Darian Thrailkill Mrs. Brianna Wagman Ms. Kristy Palmer Mr. Eric Wright Mr. Karsten Hiser Mrs. Samantha Suter Ms. Samantha Cripps Ms. Kristy Palmer Mrs. Jessica Arnold Ms. Anne Hedderman Mrs. Angela Sholty Mrs. Amy Wright Mr. Reynold Candelaria Ms. Catherine Symchych Ms. Andrea Bloom Mrs. Roxane Todd Mrs. Patricia McGrew Ms. Samantha Cripps Mrs. Deborah Grace Mrs. Abigaile George-Edling lthrailkill@acsd1.org bwagman@acsd1.org kpalmer@acsd1.org ewrightl@acsd1.org khiser@acsd1.org ssuter@acsd1.org scripps@acsd1.org kpalmer@acsd1.org jarnold@acsd1.org ahedderman@acsd1.org asholty@acsd1.org awright@acsd1.org rcandelaria@acsd1.org csymchych@acsd1.org abloom@acsd1.org rtodd@acsd1.org pmcgrew@acsd1.org scripps@acsd1.org dgrace@acsd1.org aedling@acsd1.org SUPPORT STAFF Nurse Office Assistant/ASP Custodian Mrs. Peggy Ferguson Mrs. Janet German Mr. Jeff Ernster 12 10 School Phone Numbers School Fax Line ACSD#1 Bus Garage (307) 745-9930 (307) 745-9931 (307) 721-4470 2nd 3rd 4th 5th Lang. Arts/Soc. Stud. 5th Math/Science 6th-9th Language Arts 6th-9th Social Studies 6th -9th Science 6th -9th Math 29 29 24 38 32 26 34 30 27 36 TELEPHONE NUMBERS (307) 745-9932 WEB ADDRESS www.snowyrangeacademy.org 6 pferguson@acsd1.org jgerman@acsd1.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair/Parent Member Vice-Chair/Community Member Treasurer/Community Member Secretary/Parent Member Parent Member Parent Member Parent Member Emeritus Member Principal Operations Manager Employee Representative Michael Duff Aaron Tomisich Pennie Weir Karen Bienz Laura Peterson Rodney Weakly Stacy Holzwarth Bruce Cameron Dawn Wilson Margarita Rovani Catherine Symchych 307-742-9441 307-742-7896 307-745-6082 307-721-2968 402-416-1436 307-742-9376 307-760-1228 307-399-5983 307-745-9930 307-745-9930 307-745-9930 mduff1@uwyo.ed atomisich@laramielaw.com pweir_7@yahoo.com mtacwyo@hotmail.com petersonlauralynn@yahoo.com rweakly@rewsoft.com earlybirder1@msn.com unsw@uwyo.edu wilsond@acsd1.org mrovani@acsd1.org csymchych@acsd1.org DAILY SCHEDULE 8:15 8:20 9:45 10:00 11:15-12:00 11:45-12:30 12:00-12:30 3:15 3:15-5:15 School starts, First Bell Tardy Bell Primary (K – 2nd) Recess Intermediate (3rd – 4th) Recess Primary Lunch and Recess (K– 2nd) Intermediate Lunch and Recess (3rd – 4th) Middle School Lunch (5th – 9th) School Dismissed After-school Program School dismisses at 11:15 a.m. on half days. 7 2015-2016 School Calendar 18-24 Staff Development 19 SRA Board Meeting 20 Back to School Night 25 First Day of School HALF DAY 28 M&M #1/Saxon Testing 14 15-16 21 23 28 30 Parent-Teacher Conf. HALF DAY Parent-Teacher Conf. NO SCHOOL SRA Board Meeting End of1st Quarter M&M #3/Saxon Testing Report Cards AUGUST ‘15 S M T W Th SEPTEMBER ‘15 F S S M 1 21-31 Happy Holidays Laramie SRA Board Meeting M&M #5 Winter Break W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 7 16 23 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30 30 31 S M T W 24 28 NOVEMBER ‘15 OCTOBER ‘15 F S S M T W Th F S 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 F S S M 6 7 13 Th JANUARY ‘16 T W F S 1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 17 20 21 22 23 24 27 28 29 30 31 Labor Day- NO SCHOOL SRA Board Meeting Progress Reports M&M #2 Spalding Night Staff Development NO SCHOOL 3 Th DECEMBER ‘15 5 16 T S M T W Th 1 2 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Staff Development NO SCHOOL 18 SRA Board Meeting 24 Progress Reports M&M #4 25-27 Thanksgiving Break 1 15 18 22 Winter Break End of 2nd Quarter Staff Development NO SCHOOL SRA Board Meeting M&M #6/Saxon Testing Report Cards Home 2 14-18 23 25 30 30 Enrollment Open House Spring Break SRA Board Meeting End of 3rd Quarter Report Cards M&M #8/Saxon Testing 20 31 FEBRUARY ‘16 15 17 17 24 Staff Development HALF DAY SRA Board Meeting Progress Reports M&M #7 S M T W Th MARCH ‘16 F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 S M S M 20 27 SRA Board Meeting Progress Reports W Th W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 F S APRIL ‘16 T T MAY ‘16 F S S M 1 2 T W Th 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 29 30 31 8 PAWS Testing March 7 – 25 4 5 18 19 25 26 27 Annual Meeting Spring Sing SRA Board Meeting Core Knowledge Music Festival M&M #9/Saxon Testing Field Day 9th Gr. Commencement Last Day of School Awards Assembly HALF DAY SECTION II: OVERVIEW OF SNOWY RANGE ACADEMY PHILOSOPHY VISION STATEMENT Our goal is to help every child strive for excellence –in academics, character, and citizenship within a rich intellectual environment. To achieve this: Students will come prepared to learn Teachers will maintain high expectations Parents will assist with the children’s education and support the school through service The Administration and Board will provide strong, effective leadership MISSION The mission of Snowy Range Academy is to offer an academically rigorous, content-rich integrated educational program grounded in a common foundation and sequence of study. Snowy Range Academy will provide excellence and fairness in education by operating according to policies based on values of inclusiveness, personal responsibility, honesty, self-reliance, and courtesy. Snowy Range Academy recognizes the leadership of teachers in the classroom, and will develop a school structure emphasizing how students, parents, administrators and other relevant parties can support the teachers in their delivery of academic content. Within the context of the goals listed here, Snowy Range Academy will endeavor to instruct students in skills that they can use for the rest of their lives. The result will be a student body that has attained high levels of academic competence, comprised of individuals who are motivated to continue to develop their knowledge and skills. MISSION STATEMENT: Academic Excellence, Character Education, and Fairness for All. PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS The foundation for Snowy Range Academy’s educational vision is built upon the following elements: A structured and disciplined, academics-focused classroom and school environment High time on task Teacher-directed classroom High standards and expectations for all students Strong emphasis on literacy, critical thinking, and shared cultural knowledge through Spalding Language Arts and Core Knowledge curricula Character education School-wide uniform code CHARTER SCHOOLS Snowy Range Academy (SRA) is a charter school within Albany County School District #1. A charter school is a public school that operates largely independent of the District’s administrative structure, although it receives state funds and must follow state and federal law for public schools. Since SRA is a public school, it is tuition free for all students in Albany County, and it has no religious or political orientation. SRA is part of the District, and operates with ACSD#1 oversight, but it uses a different curriculum, has a separate budget, and has an independent governance system. SRA’s operating guidelines are laid out in Wyoming’s Charter School Act (Wyoming Statutes 21-3-301 through 21-3-401), and in the five-year charter signed with the District. A copy of the charter, contract, and bylaws are available for review on the SRA website. 9 ACADEMIC PROGRAM CORE KNOWLEDGE In 2014, Snowy Range Academy became a Core Knowledge School of Distinction as designated by the Core Knowledge Foundation. This accolade ensures that SRA uses the Core Knowledge Sequence with fidelity and exemplifies what it means to be a Core Knowledge School. The Core Knowledge Sequence is distinguished by a planned progression of specific knowledge in history, geography, mathematics, science, language arts, and fine arts. Children learn by building on what they already know. Thus, it is important for them to begin building foundations of knowledge in the early grades when they are most receptive to attaining an organized body of knowledge. Children are by instinct driven to construct a contextual view of the world. Thus, it is important to provide them an educational framework that assists them in developing the constructs upon which their viewpoints will be based. Academic deficiencies in these areas in the first nine grades can permanently impair the quality of later schooling. By specifying the knowledge that all children should share, all students can achieve equal access to that knowledge. At risk children especially suffer from low expectations, which often translate into watered-down curricula. In schools using the Core Knowledge Sequence, however, all children are exposed to a coherent core of challenging, interesting, interwoven knowledge. This knowledge not only provides a foundation for later learning but also defines a common heritage and establishes a common ground for communication and cooperation in a diverse society. The Core Knowledge Sequence introduces major world religions beginning in the first grade. Classroom units explore the similarities and differences of each religion, and are presented in strictly an informational format. The students learn about beliefs, holiday customs, and symbols that represent each of these religions. They will recognize that religion did shape the history of civilization. Activities will integrate the Core Knowledge connections to the language and math content areas. Parents with specific objections may opt out of individual lessons and assignments by requesting permission from the teacher. This request must be in advance and in writing. Students who opt out are still expected to know the Core Knowledge material covered in class. SPALDING METHOD LANGUAGE ARTS The Spalding mission is to develop skilled readers, critical listeners, accomplished speakers, spellers, and writers who are lifelong learners. Students will receive explicit, systematic phonemic awareness, phonics instruction and regular assessment with individual progress closely monitored. Children are provided deliberate, coherent, direct instruction in letter-sound correspondences. Practices that teach children to rely on word-memorization and guessing are avoided. Cursive Students in grades 4 and up are expected to complete all work in cursive unless otherwise directed by the teacher. 10 SAXON MATH Saxon Math adds topics incrementally, while continually reviewing what students already know. Topics are never dropped but are instead increased in complexity and practiced every day, providing the time required for concepts to become totally familiar. SRA will attempt to challenge each student to an ever-increasing level of math proficiency. The goal is to combine “automatic” confidence in basic calculation (memorizing the basic arithmetic facts of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) while preparing students for more complex mathematical processes. SRA implements an enhanced version of the Saxon Math program that is accelerated by one year. SPECIAL PROGRAMS At SRA, we consider these special areas an integral part of students’ education. Spanish, Art, Music, and Technology are closely integrated with the Core Knowledge curriculum. Physical Education will be integrated with the curriculum, and based on age-appropriate learning of lifelong skills. Because we recognize the value of second-language learning at an early age, Spanish will begin in Kindergarten and continue on a regular basis through every grade. ELECTIVES Middle school students choose from a variety of electives at the beginning of each semester. Please see “Electives” section for the policy regarding participation, and drop/add guidelines. 9TH GRADE CURRICULUM Since the Core Knowledge Sequence ends at 8th grade, SRA offers a modified version of the International Baccalaureate’s Middle Years Programme™ (MYP) for 9th grade. The 9th grade curriculum features: Geometry/Algebra I/Algebra II, Biology, Physical Education and Health, Spanish, Civics and Contemporary World Issues, and Language Arts. A wide variety of electives are also offered. This curriculum dovetails nicely with the K-8 Core Knowledge Sequence, as it challenges students to evaluate information critically, enables them to take responsibility for their own learning, and encourages them to take an active role in their community thereby encouraging responsible citizenship. The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program has been aligned to Wyoming standards and benchmarks, and courses taken by SRA students are eligible for Hathaway credits toward meeting graduation requirements. MIDDLE SCHOOL CREDITS The academic year at SRA will consist of two semesters. Completion of one semester of a course with a passing grade will earn 0.5 credits. A full load in an academic year is 7 credits. Course credits for Middle School are converted to standardized Carnegie units of credits (or Carnegie credits). All coursework completed with a passing grade in 6th through 9th grades will appear on the student’s transcript and will be used to calculate the student’s grade point average (GPA). Points are assigned to each letter grade as follows: A=4 points; B=3 points; C=2 points; D=1 point; and F= 0 points. The average of the points earned for all the courses taken is the grade point average (GPA). Courses in which a student did not receive a grade, such as pass/fail and audited courses, do not factor into the GPA calculation. 11 TEACHERS AND PROFESSIONALISM Teachers are at the center of every successful school. Without dedicated and competent teachers, the best of educational practices will never bear fruit in the classroom. Research on effective schools reveals that after individual ability and effort, the school’s organizational structure is most influential in determining academic achievement. SRA’s teachers are expected to implement SRA’s academic mission. In the classroom, the teacher is in charge. The central role of teachers in the classroom deserves respect. All teachers have a different style of teaching—the unique blend of classroom characteristics that enable them to give the best of themselves to the education of their students. The teacher's style sets some basic parameters for the parents as well as the children. Within those parameters, and at the teacher's discretion, parents have the opportunity to assist the teacher. SRA encourages parental involvement, and teachers are expected to incorporate parental volunteer efforts in the classroom as much as is reasonably possible. Parents with children in a classroom will have the priority for volunteer opportunities in that class. STUDENT ACCOUNTABILITY Students are expected to accept responsibility for their own education and behavior by arriving on time, turning in homework and class work on time, being prepared with class supplies, and taking responsibility for their actions. The philosophy and practices of SRA considers young people to be accountable for their actions. Our policies will encourage discipline, hard work, cooperation, decision-making and acceptance of the consequences for decisions made. Such policies, along with a clear understanding of academic expectations, help our students in their quest for intellectual and personal growth. To help create this climate, students and their parents must read and adhere to the Student/Parent Contract signed upon enrollment, as well as the Honor Code and Internet Agreement signed at the beginning of each year. SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES Albany County School District #1 has a continuum of all special education services as required by state and federal legislation. Programs are provided for children with learning disabilities, speech and language disabilities, visual/hearing disabilities, to the educable mentally disabled, severely/multiple disabled, physically disabled, and emotionally disabled. Some of the above programs are provided in each of the schools in Albany County, while other programs are available only at selected sites. A parent or staff member may initiate referrals for placement in a special education program. No child is placed in a special education program without parent permission. SRA follows best educational practices by ensuring that all students are instructed in the least restrictive environment. All special education services at SRA are provided and overseen by ACSD#1 staff. TUTORING SERVICES When children need additional help, teaching assistants and/or parent volunteers will help teachers provide the aid before and after regular school hours. Parents may be asked to bring children in early, or arrange for them to stay late, in order to get the help they need. Students who enter SRA with gaps in their academic skills, or who enroll during the school year, may be 12 required to attend special tutoring at school. This may be for several weeks or for several months, depending on how long it takes the student to gain the skills needed to be successful in the classroom. If a student falls behind on his/her work, the parent/guardian will be notified that tutoring is strongly recommended. The parent/guardian may be responsible for providing transportation for tutoring. SRA will also provide a chance for parents to attend a Spalding Language Arts mini-course in order to assist their children at home. Course times and dates will be announced. A summer school program will be provided for incoming students who may benefit from additional Spalding and Saxon instruction. PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT/VOLUNTEERS A strong volunteer program is a vital aspect of SRA. Every family is encouraged to donate time to help develop school/home partnerships that will result in an increased quality of education for the students. Parents are strongly encouraged to volunteer one hour each month in the school. Parents are encouraged to participate in parent committees, coaching, preparing materials, special events, library, and lunch. Parents work in conjunction with the staff to ensure the most effective education possible for their children. Lastly, parents are encouraged to attend and participate in SRA’s monthly board meetings held on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. Parents who volunteer will be expected to comply with SRA volunteer guidelines by completing the volunteer application/information form, and adhering to the rules in the Volunteer Guidelines posted on the school website and sent out at the beginning of each year. Snowy Range Academy Background Checks for Volunteers All individuals who volunteer to assist with school activities under the following circumstances must undergo screening through the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) and through a nationwide database selected and used by the Albany County School District #1: 1. Any individual who will accompany students on an overnight trip; or 2. Any individual who will accompany students on an activity or field trip off school premises and will be alone with a student or small group of students without a Snowy Range Academy employee being within visual contact of the volunteer for more than a few moments. All volunteers falling into the above two categories will be asked to complete the District’s “Volunteer Information Form”. The principal may require any volunteer to be screened through DFS and a nationwide database used by the Albany County School District #1 whether or not the volunteer is subject to mandatory screening as outlined above. A volunteer will only need to undergo the screening one time unless the principal requests that it occur more frequently. 13 The results of the screening will be submitted to the principal and will remain confidential to the greatest extent possible; however, the Snowy Range Academy reserves the right to provide such information to other Snowy Range Academy or Albany County School District #1 personnel or to law enforcement officials as is deemed necessary, consistent with legitimate educational interests, including but not limited to school safety requirements. The principal will review the results of the background checks and determine the suitability of a volunteer. If necessary, the principal will discuss the results with other Snowy Range Academy or Albany County School District #1 personnel, or law enforcement officials as the principal determines necessary, and may discuss the results with the volunteer. The screening results must be received prior to allowing a volunteer to participate in an overnight trip with students or on a field trip during which the volunteer will be alone with a student or a small group of students. An individual who is required to have a background check may volunteer on school premises for up to three days before the results of the background check are received by SRA if the following conditions are met: 1. The volunteer completes the “Volunteer Information Form” to self-report any prior criminal problems, and 2. the principal approves the volunteer being in the school, and 3. the volunteer will be monitored by a teacher, sponsor, or administrator. Snowy Range Academy retains the right to reject or refuse the offer of any person to serve as a volunteer at any time for any reason or no reason at all. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT We have received much support from individuals and businesses within our local community. Community relations will continue to be important to us, and we are all goodwill ambassadors for SRA. We hope to continue creating partnerships with local businesses and pursue grant opportunities. Any information or expertise you can offer in this area is greatly appreciated. SRA may recruit individuals from the community to provide supplementary educational experiences for the students. SRA aspires to provide an educational system that serves the needs of the students, parents, and the community. This provides an unprecedented opportunity for parents and community to participate in the students’ educational process. SRA has community board members to obtain broad, non-parental, community-based input regarding the direction and operation of the school. 14 SECTION III: SCHOOL POLICIES ACADEMICS-FOCUSED SCHOOL DAY The major responsibility of the teaching staff is to ensure that there is instructional time for the teaching of reading, writing, mathematics and the Core Knowledge curriculum. Class time will focus on education (which includes a variety of learning activities). Non-academic activities will be limited during class time. At SRA, students are taught predominantly by the teacher as a whole group. If a child needs extra help, this may be received before and after school, during free times or practice time in the classroom, or through tutoring when required by the teacher. Daily Schedule School starts at 8:15 a.m. and dismissal time is 3:15 p.m. On half days school dismissal is at 11:15 a.m. SRA follows the academic calendar issued by ACSD#1. Field Trips will be planned to enhance learning, and will correspond with grade level curricula. All field trips must be approved by the principal. Written permission from a parent/guardian is required before children are allowed to participate. SRA’s goal for field trips is to maximize opportunities for learning. See FIELD TRIP section for guidelines and policies. Holiday and Birthday Parties Children are recognized by their teachers on their birthdays; however, during class time no other treats or birthday recognition by parents are permitted. Birthday treats may be brought in to share with the class during the lunch hour or after school. Similarly, we will not use class time to celebrate holidays (Halloween, Christmas, or Easter, for example). Birthday parties and holiday parties may be held after school hours. Invitations distributed at school must include every student in your child’s class. Special deliveries such as balloons or flowers will be held in the office and delivered just prior to dismissal. We will make every attempt to incorporate as many different cultures and holidays into our after school program as there are parents who are interested in volunteering to host them. If you are interested in hosting an after school party, please contact the principal. Children are not required to attend any of these after-school events. School Directory Snowy Range Academy will attempt to supply an annual student directory. The decision to publish a directory is dependent on the percentage of families consenting to publish being a majority. It is our intention to provide this directory as a courtesy to the SRA community for personal use only, such as playdates or birthday invitations. Every effort has been made to compile complete and accurate information. Phone numbers and emails provided are those designated when each family registered. Families may reserve the right to opt out of providing any/all information for directory publication. The names and information in the directory are considered classified and may not be used by anyone for business or solicitation purposes, advertising, mass mailings, or to establish independent data files. This includes businesses operated by SRA members as well as outside businesses. 15 ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY SNOWY RANGE ACADEMY HONOR CODE We become well educated through hard work and honest effort. As members of the Snowy Range Academy community, we commit ourselves to academic and personal integrity, upholding the values of honesty, justice, respect, responsibility, and trust. Honesty is truthfulness in word and deed. Justice means giving each person his or her due. Respect is treating others politely and kindly. Responsibility is doing our part for the groups to which we belong. Trust means that we can rely on each other’s integrity, ability, and character. All members of the SRA community accept the responsibility of upholding this Honor Code. We have an Honor Code so that students, teachers, staff, and parents understand SRA’s expectations. The strong values and good behavior that students acquire through their actions constitute one of the most valuable gifts a school can give, and it is a gift that will benefit them long after graduation. True success comes when each person desires to be good for the sake of being good, and to do the right thing even when no one is looking. The intent of the Honor Code is to set a standard that the entire SRA community can embrace. By agreeing to the Honor Code, we hold ourselves to a high standard of integrity and achievement. CODE OF CONDUCT At SRA, all submitted work, as well as everyday behavior, must be guided by the Honor Code. The highest standards of honesty must apply to our actions. Any act of dishonesty affects the entire school community. SRA’s Vision Statement proclaims: “Our goal is to help every child strive for excellence – in academics, character, and citizenship within a rich intellectual environment.” While the entire school community is expected to sign and adhere to the Honor Code, the Honor Board and specified remedies for Honor Code violations listed in this policy are intended for grades 5-9 only. Violations of the Honor Code by grades K-4 will be addressed by the principal. Specifically, in relation to classroom activities, both teachers and students have responsibilities in the following areas: Preparation for Class In order for the teacher and student to be actively involved in a worthwhile classroom experience, Teachers will: Within the context of an orderly and high-expectation classroom environment, foster a classroom environment that allows for open communication, dialogue, and discussion among all present. Be precise about expectations regarding student requirements for classroom work. Students will: Bring all necessary materials to class. 16 Come to class with homework assignments that they have prepared as assigned. Make sure they understand teacher’s expectations for upcoming classes. Ask questions about anything they do not fully understand. Be actively involved as they prepare assignments for class. Formulate questions they might have about the material. In Class Teachers will: Begin class promptly. Answer questions to the best of their abilities and honestly acknowledge when they do not have the answers. When these cases arise, they will investigate answers and provide responses for students in a timely fashion. Encourage honest, open, and fair classroom discussion, being respectful of differing views. Periodically check with collaborative groups, where applicable, to ensure that each is functioning effectively. The teacher will make recommendations, offer advice, and/or redirect the group, if necessary. Students will: Be in class on time. Make good use of class time by being focused on the lesson, avoiding side conversations. Be respectful of the teacher and fellow students. Take responsibility for carrying out his/her particular assignment in a collaborative situation, where applicable. Assessments Teachers will: Be available to help students prepare effectively. Develop questions that will be a meaningful test of the course content. Create an atmosphere conducive to fair and honest testing. Carefully monitor the exam to prevent cheating. Give due and careful consideration to student answers when evaluating them and assigning grades. Address issues of dishonesty, should they arise. Students will: Come prepared and put forth their best efforts. Read and follow directions carefully. Rely on their own preparation as they take the test; make an honest effort. Accept responsibility for what they know and what they don’t know. Assignments Teachers will: Develop fair assignments with expectations delineated. Clearly specify when collaboration with other students is permitted on an assignment. If collaboration has not been specified as permissible, the assignment must be the student’s individual honest effort. Devise meaningful assignments that enhance and further the work done in the 17 classroom. Give due and careful consideration to the student’s work when evaluating it and assigning a grade. Address issues of dishonesty, should they arise. Students will: Be good time managers; be realistic about the workload and plan ahead. Read and follow directions carefully. Seek only appropriate help from others. Give full and proper credit to sources. VIOLATIONS OF THE HONOR CODE Violations of the Honor Code include, but are not limited to, the following areas (as defined by the course teacher) *: Cheating includes the actual giving or receiving of any unauthorized aid or assistance or the actual giving or receiving of any unfair advantage on any form of academic work including translating software, or attempts thereof. Plagiarism includes the deliberate and intentional copying of the language, structure, programming, computer code, ideas, and/or thoughts of another and passing off the same as one's own original work, or attempts thereof. Fabrication includes the statement of any untruth, either verbally or in writing, with respect to any circumstances relevant to one's academic work, or attempts thereof. Forgery includes falsely making or altering a writing by which the legal rights or obligations of another person are apparently affected; simulated signing of another person's name to any such writing, whether or not it is also the forger's name. *If a student is unclear as to whether or not his or her action(s) are in violation of the Honor Code, then it is that student's responsibility to clarify any ambiguities with the appropriate administrator or instructor. THE HONOR BOARD The SRA Honor Board is comprised of three individuals: the principal, the employee representative to the SRA Board of Directors (BOD), and another member of the SRA BOD. Honor Board members are responsible for upholding the Honor Code through personal example. All cases of academic dishonesty will be referred to the principal. If a student is suspected of violating the Honor Code, the teacher will notify the principal in writing. The principal will determine the merit of the case based on the evidence presented. The principal will then meet with the teacher, the student and the parents. The student will choose from one of two options on the referral: The student may admit to the violation and accept the sanction. The student will be given the opportunity to address the Honor Board in person, as well as to provide a written statement. The student may deny the violation, at which point an investigation will take place by the 18 principal, whose findings will be brought to the Honor Board. The student will be given the opportunity to address the Honor Board in person, as well as to provide a written statement to the Honor Board. Parents may attend the hearing of the Honor Board. If the student either admits to or is found to have violated the Honor Code with regard to academic affairs, the following are consequences that the Honor Board may impose: First Offense: The assignment receives a grade of zero. Student will be excused from any honor societies of which he/she is a current member as well as from Student Council. Student may not apply to any honor societies or run for any student office for remainder of the school year following the first offense. Three points will be given, following SRA’s Discipline Policy. Second Offense: The assignment receives a grade of zero. The student will be assigned 15 school service hours. Student will be excused from any honor societies of which he/she is a current member as well as from Student Council. Student is ineligible to apply for any honor societies or run for any student offices for the remainder of the current and following school year. Four points will be given, following SRA’s Discipline Policy. Third Offense: The assignment receives a grade of zero. He/she will be assigned 20 school service hours. Student is ineligible to apply for any honor societies or run for any student offices for the remainder of his/her school career. Five points will be given, following SRA’s Discipline Policy. All SRA students and parents are required to read and sign the Honor Code and Academic Integrity policy before the start of each school year. Snowy Range Academy acknowledges the following sources used in the development of the SRA Honor Code: the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Honor Code; the Mountain Lakes High School Honor Code; the Girard College High School Honor Code; The Webb School Honor Code. 19 SCHOOL POLICIES ATTENDANCE AND TARDINESS Attendance Policy Regular attendance at school is vital to learning. SRA discourages vacations, trips, doctor appointments and other non-illness-related absences when school is in session. When that is unavoidable, students are responsible for any make-up work during their absence. Assignments that are not made up, according to time restrictions set by the teacher and school, will be reflected in student grades (see HOMEWORK section for specific policies regarding make-up work). A call is required to the school’s office before 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. Excused Absences shall include approved absences for school-sponsored activities, and approved absence for illness, medical and dental appointments that cannot be held after school, family emergencies, court appearances, and pre-arranged absences as approved by the administration. A doctor’s verification may be required in cases of illness. If a student accumulates ten (10) excused absences within any year, verification of further excused absences may be required, i.e., doctor’s excuse. Students without verifications for further absences may be referred to the Truant/Youth Officer of the Laramie Police Department. After ten (10) consecutive days of absences, a student will be dropped from the rolls. The student will need to re-enroll. Exceptions will be made in the event of a prolonged illness when homebound instruction is provided by the school district, W.S. 21-4-402. Cited information from Wyoming Education Law 21-4-101 through 21-4-107 and 21-4-402, 2000 Edition. Unexcused Absences will include appointments other than medical, such as business appointments, hair appointments, job interviews, shopping, recreational activities, needed at home for chores and baby-sitting, oversleeping, missing the bus, car trouble, staying home to study or prepare school lessons. If a student is absent or tardy, a call is required to the school’s office before 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. A written note or a telephone call from home at the time of the absence stating the nature of the absence may excuse the absence. If we do not receive the written note or telephone call by 9:00 a.m. stating the reason for the absence and asking for the absence to be excused, the absence may be recorded as unexcused. When five (5) unexcused absences have been recorded for any student during any school year, the matter may be referred to the Truancy/Youth Officer of the Laramie Police Department. Homework will not be sent home nor will credit be awarded for any work done during periods of unexcused absence. Teachers are given the discretion of accepting work assigned prior to the absence from students returning after an unexcused absence. Tardiness will include any student who is not seated and ready for work by 8:20 a.m. If a student is not in class and seated by 10:00 a.m., the student will be marked absent for that day. If a student comes before 10:00 a.m., the student will be marked as tardy. A tardy student must report to the office for a tardy slip before going to class. After three tardies a letter will be sent home to inform the parents. Any tardies thereafter will have a consequence that may include an after-school detention. 20 In the afternoon, if a child leaves at or before 2:00 p.m., that child will be marked absent for half a day. After 2:00 p.m. the absence is considered to be an early dismissal and not counted as an absence. Compulsory attendance regulations do not apply to Kindergarten students. Habitual Truant: As defined by law, a habitual truant is any child with five (5) or more unexcused absences in any school year. It is the duty of the Board and those persons who serve as its attendance officers to investigate and initiate legal proceedings against parents and guardians whose children are habitual truants under the legal definition, W.S. 21-4-101. Unexcused absences may be referred to the Albany County Youth Officer. Request to Leave Parents planning to take their children on a trip are requested to complete a “Request for Absence” form at least one week prior to the trip. These forms are available at the SRA Front Office and on the school website. Trips that cause children to miss class time can be detrimental to a child’s education. It becomes the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with teachers for any missed assignments. Teachers will save the student’s work and present it to the student upon their return. The student will have one day to complete the missed work for each day missed from school. Students who miss a test during their absence will take the test within two days of their return. In fairness to the teacher’s planning time, no exceptions will be made to this policy. SRA encourages families to consult the school calendar and avoid planning trips during state assessments, as it is not always possible to provide make-up dates for these mandated tests. A copy of the “Request for Absence” form will be given to the teacher, and any assignments that are ready to give the student prior to the vacation will be enclosed. Upon return to school, the student will hand in all completed assignments to the teacher. BATHROOM ACCIDENTS When an Accident Occurs The student will be dismissed to the nurse’s office (or the SRA Front Office if the nurse is not present) and the nurse or office personnel will assist the student, signing out a set of dry clothes (located in the nurse’s office) and providing a plastic bag in which to place the soiled clothes. The nurse or office personnel will wait outside the nurse’s office while the student changes clothes and then will send the student back to class, depositing the bag of soiled clothing in the student’s backpack with a note informing the parents that an emergency uniform was provided to the student for that day. This procedure will also be followed when a student’s clothing is wet or muddy from recess. All loaner clothes should be washed and returned to school in a timely manner. Students will be allowed the use of one set of loaner clothes at a time. For any incident requiring additional sets of clothing, the parent will be called and asked to bring suitable uniform attire. BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL We strongly recommend that students arrive at school no earlier than 8:05 a.m. No child may be dropped off before 7:45 a.m. unless they are involved in a supervised “before-school” activity. 21 Parents picking up their child at the end of the school day should arrive promptly at 3:15 p.m. and either wait in the parking lot or the school lobby area. All children who are not being supervised by a parent must be picked up by 3:30 p.m. If the child is not picked up by 3:30 p.m. the parent will be called. If there is room in the After-School Program (ASP), the parents can agree to ASP drop-in placement. If no parent can be reached, if the family has an outstanding balance of over $75, if parent declines ASP, or if ASP has no room for drop-in children, the district Youth Officer will be called to pick up the child. Drop-ins will be charged a fee of $14/child if paid at the time of pick-up, $17/child if SRA has to bill you for this service. Students whose parents call notifying the office that they will be later than 3:30 will also be placed in the after-school program. For all after school activities (tutoring, orchestra, detention, drama, etc.) children must be picked up no later than 15 minutes after the activity dismisses. Children not picked up on time will be sent to the After-School Program, and charged the drop-in fee. There will be a charge for all students who are placed in ASP. Because ASP is not offered on half days, if the child is not picked up by 11:30 a.m., the parent will be called. If no parent can be reached, the district Youth Officer will be called to pick up the child. After-School Program As a service to parents, SRA offers an After-School Program for students who need supervision after school. The program operates every day school is in session, from 3:15-5:15 p.m., but not on half days or school vacation days. The program includes snack-time, recess, study hall, and group or individual reading time followed by an activity time. If you wish to utilize this service you must register your child one (1) week in advance of the first day of program participation. Please see the Office for a registration form. The fee schedule, also available from the Office, is based on a comparison with existing Laramie child-care programs and includes monthly and sibling discounts. Balances in excess of $75 shall be turned over to a collection agency. Please note that there is no adult supervision for students after school is dismissed unless you enroll your child in the After-School Program. SRA’s Before- and After-School Program is open to SRA students only. After-School Program Behavior Consequences SRA After-School Program (ASP) uses a ticket system to enable the director to enforce rules. All disciplinary infractions and resulting consequences that occur in ASP will have no bearing on the child’s school day and will not carry over to consequences at school. Likewise, tickets that accrue during the school day do not carry over into ASP consequences. Due to the truncated time in ASP, all students will begin each day in ASP with four (4) tickets. Each successive infraction against the school rules results in one ticket being “pulled” by the director. Except in unusual circumstances, the following consequences will be adhered to in ASP: 1st Level Warning from ASP director 2nd Level Green Ticket Blue Ticket 3rd Level Pink Ticket 4th Level Purple Ticket 10 minute detention during free play and a discussion with the parent by the ASP director Parent contacted for immediate pick up. Student will wait for arrival. 5 minute detention during free play 22 To prevent repeat offenses of minor infractions, a point system will also be adhered to. Points are only given for the highest level reached for that day. Students will receive points for the following reasons: 1 point 2 points 3 points Reaching 2nd Level Reaching 3rd Level Reaching 4th Level Consequences for receiving points will be as follows: 6 points Parent, student, ASP director and principal will have a conference 9 points Temporary suspension from the After-School Program. Length of time to be determined by ASP director and SRA principal. The point system begins over at the start of each month. The ASP director and staff may administer other consequences for disciplinary infractions when necessary. Attending SRA’s After-School Program is a privilege. Students with continued or serious infractions may be asked to leave the program. BOOKS All books are on loan to students for their use during SRA’s school year. Books are to be kept clean and handled carefully. Students are responsible for the return of all books and materials that are issued to them during the school year. Materials shall be returned in a timely manner and in good condition. Students will be charged for materials returned damaged and/or materials that are not returned. In addition, students who do not return or pay for lost books will have their library privileges revoked. Replacement costs for lost or damaged books: NEW Books 1 year old 2+ years old FULL cost of book 80% cost of books 50% cost of original CHILDCARE POLICY FOR SCHOOL EVENTS At certain evening or weekend events, SRA may provide childcare for families. The purpose of this service is to provide SRA families with a safe environment to leave their children, allowing everyone the opportunity to enjoy the event. Childcare will be housed in the kindergarten classroom and will service children from age one year through third grade. The following requirements must be adhered to: 23 A parent will be required to drop a child off, sign the child in, and leave a cell phone number where he/she can be reached. Parents will be called for all diapering and behavioral issues. At the end of the event, the parent must come and sign the child out. No child will be dismissed from the room without a parent present. This will be the only supervision available during the event. Children not attending childcare must remain with their parents during the event. The childcare room will be staffed by students from the UW Honors Program. These students are prospective educators and have passed all required background screenings. There will be an SRA staff member overseeing the room and will check on the children periodically. If families choose to participate in evening or weekend events, the parents must attend with their child. Students may not attend evening or weekend events without parental supervision. COMMUNICATION Communication between school staff and parents/students is crucial for overall school success. Parents may use e-mail for teacher communication, or leave notes to be put in teacher mailboxes. Teachers and staff are very busy right before and after school hours, so please schedule a faceto-face meeting ahead of time to allow sufficient time to talk. Response timeline: Once you have contacted an SRA employee, you can expect a timely response. Administrators (principal or operations manager) – should respond no later than three business days Faculty – will make every effort to respond within 1 business day, and no more than 2 business days Staff: SRA Front Office – you will receive a response from someone in the office within 1 business day Paraprofessionals – questions should be directed to the classroom teacher, who will discuss the matter with the paraprofessional before responding Recess/Lunch Monitor, Substitute Teacher – please contact the principal Custodian – please contact the operations manager Most, if not all, SRA communications will be sent electronically to the greatest extent possible, unless otherwise requested. Communications may include but are not limited to: classroom and monthly newsletters, teacher and administrative notices, permissions slips, conference information, and special-event fliers. Homework assignments and the school lunch menu are available on the SRA website. Other important communications may be sent home at any time as needed. Parents should provide a preferred email address, and are responsible for keeping their contact information current, notifying the SRA Front Office of any changes. Parents are expected to regularly check for emails and written communications. Paper copies of email notifications may be posted in the front lobby. 24 Messages to Students Parents are encouraged to make arrangements with their student for activities, rides, etc. prior to dropping them off at school. We understand that there are times when situations change and it is necessary to leave a message for your child(ren) at school. We make every effort to deliver those messages to students in a timely manner. However, we cannot guarantee that messages for students called in to the office after 2:30 p.m. will be delivered, as it is a very busy time of day for the office secretary. Student Phone Use/Cell Phones Students may use the office phone with permission from a staff member. Students may not use the school phone for arranging after-school play dates or other personal matters. Students may not carry cell phones with them at school. If it is necessary for a student to have a cell phone, it must remain in the student’s locker or backpack, turned off for the entire day. If a student’s cell phone is confiscated, it will be given to the principal and a parent/guardian will need to pick it up. On the third time a cell phone is confiscated, the principal will require the cell phone to be left at home. Contacting Teachers In order to have proper time to address concerns, please refrain from impromptu meetings with teachers during the school day. Parents are encouraged to use email, voicemail, or write a note in their child’s planner to schedule meeting times with teachers. Teacher Conferences Parent/Teacher conferences are scheduled in the fall and are mandatory. Parents will be notified of the specific schedules for the conferences. Arrangements for additional conferences may be made with your child’s teacher before or after school hours. A spring conference may be held at the teacher’s discretion. Midterm Reports and Report Cards Student report cards are issued every nine weeks. The parents should examine the report card, then sign and return the envelope to the teacher. Additionally, halfway through each grading period the teacher will issue individual student progress reports. These must also be signed and returned to school. Board Communications All Board of Directors meeting times, agendas, and minutes are posted on the school website. DISCIPLINE POLICY AND SCHOOL RULES A very structured and consistent learning environment characterizes SRA. The program operates on the concept of mutual respect between students and faculty, common courtesy, friendliness and cheerfulness. Its purpose is to create a calm and orderly atmosphere in which to teach children the academic skills. There are specific consequences for inappropriate behavior that will be enforced by the staff. We consider our discipline program as a caring stand. We believe children have a right to learn, teachers have a right to teach and parents have a right to be parents. At no time will school personnel use corporal punishment. Our behavior program is truly meaningful when parents reinforce the school expectations at home. 25 General School-Wide Behavioral Expectations: Settle disagreements without fighting or threatening to fight. Use only wholesome and courteous language. Show respect to adults and fellow students. Show consideration to property and others by not throwing rocks, snowballs, or any other objects, other than using play equipment (balls) in an appropriate manner. Play games which do not require grabbing, pulling, or hitting other students. No tackle football. Tolerate and accept physical, mental, and cultural differences among others. Do not leave the school grounds without parental consent and permission from the office. Do not bring personal play items to school. Play only in designated play areas. Respect other’s possessions and do not take items belonging to others. Do not run, bounce the balls, or talk loudly until out on the playground. Observe the specific rules for the various playground equipment as given by the playground monitors. No gum, food, or candy is allowed in the classroom, the hall, or on the playground. Snacks may be allowed as directed by the teacher. Always talk in a quiet voice in the hallways and lunchroom. Act mannerly in the lunchroom. Do not throw food. When the bell rings to come off the playground, stop play immediately and report to the designated area. Do not destroy, write on, or deface school property. Realize that the teacher’s lounge, workroom, staff bathrooms, and offices are for parents and staff only. Follow rules on all district buses, observing safe ride practices and courtesy to drivers. Playground Rules: Obey Playground Supervisor Always! 1. Keep your hands to yourself. 2. Respect others at all times. 3. Use good language. 4. Rubber chips and rocks stay on the ground – NO Throwing! 5. Ask permission to leave the group. 6. Do not climb on fences or top of equipment. 7. Do not jump off playground equipment. 8. Do not hang on or misuse tetherball. 9. Do not swing tetherball after bell rings. 10. Do not dig in rubber chips in or under slide. 26 Serious Offenses: The following will be considered a SERIOUS OFFENSE if they take place anywhere on school property or during a school event and will result in a written citation. The consequences are 1 point and a letter to the parent, which must be signed and returned the next school day. If the letter is not signed and returned by the end of the third day, the child may receive one day of out-of-school suspension. 1. Fighting, wrestling, provoking fights, kicking, hitting and/or any other form of assault, provoked or unprovoked. 2. Obscenity or profanity, in any form. 3. Insubordination, talking back, or other disrespect of authority. Elementary Discipline: Grades K-4: The following rules apply for all elementary classrooms: 1. Follow directions. 2. Stay in your seat unless given permission to leave. 3. Raise your hand to speak and wait to be called upon. 4. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself. 5. Bring necessary homework, books, notebooks, paper, and pencils to class. 6. Show respect for teachers, staff members, adults, and fellow students. Consequences: SRA uses a ticket system to enable teachers to enforce rules. Students in grades K-4 begin each day with all five (5) tickets. Each successive infraction against the rules listed above results in one ticket being “pulled” by the teacher. Except for unusual circumstances, the following consequences will be adhered to in all classrooms: 1st Level 2nd Level 3rd Level Green Ticket Blue Ticket Pink Ticket 4th Level Red Ticket 5th Level Purple Ticket Warning from teacher or supervisor 5 minute detention during recess 5 minute detention and a call to the parent by the classroom teacher. A call to the parent followed by a conference with the child, parent, classroom teacher, and principal after school or before school begins on the next day Child sent immediately to the principal. Child will be sent home for the remainder of the day. If the fifth level is reached prior to lunch, the child may return the following morning. However, if the fifth level is reached after lunch, the child may not return to class until after lunch the following day. A conference with the child, parent, classroom teacher, and principal will be required before child returns to school the next day. Child is expected to complete and turn in all homework missed. See HOMEWORK policy. 27 To prevent repeat offenses of minor infractions, and to address more serious offenses that may take place anywhere on school grounds, a point system will also be adhered to. Points are only given for the highest level reached for that day. Students will receive points for the following reasons: 1 point 2 points 3 points Reaching 3rd Level, or any SERIOUS OFFENSE Reaching 4th Level Reaching 5th Level Consequences for receiving points will be as follows: 6 points 10 points 14+ points Parent, student, classroom teacher and principal will have a conference prior to the student attending class on the following day Temporary suspension – 1 day out-of-school suspension (OSS) Principal’s discretion – Could include OSS or other appropriate action The point system begins over each quarterly grading period. The teachers and staff may administer other consequences for disciplinary infractions when necessary. Suspended students will not be on the honor roll for that quarter. Suspensions may render a student ineligible for field trips and other activities. Suspension is defined as any incident resulting in a student being sent home for any length of time as a disciplinary measure. Middle School Discipline: Grades 5-9: The following rules apply for all middle school classrooms: 1. Follow directions. 2. Stay in your seat unless given permission to leave. 3. Raise your hand to speak and wait to be called upon. 4. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself. 5. Bring necessary homework, books, notebooks, paper, and pencils to class. 6. Show respect for teachers, staff members, adults, and fellow students. 7. Adhere to SRA uniform code. Consequences: For middle school students in 5th – 9th grades who travel from class to class each period, teacher signatures will replace tickets. One signature will be comparable to a 1 st level ticket, two signatures will be the same as a 2nd level ticket, etc. In addition, infractions and points will accumulate daily. Detentions must be served on the day the detention was earned. Students will serve detention from 3:30-4:00 p.m. Parents are expected to pick up their student from detention by no later than 4:00 p.m. Students that are not picked up in time will be sent to the After School Program, and parents will be required to pay the $14 or $17 drop-in fee (see section for before- and after-school). 28 The purpose of detention is to be both a deterrent and a consequence for continued infractions. In the event that a student earns 5 or more detentions in a quarter, it will be determined that the traditional afterschool detention is not effective for that student. In these rare instances the parent and principal will work together to determine additional consequences for the student in an effort to help correct the behavior. All consequences must be mutually agreed upon by the parent and the principal. If no agreement can be made, detentions and consequences will continue according to policy. See below for specific middle school consequences for infractions. Middle School Consequences: 1st discipline signature 2nd discipline signature 3rd discipline signature = 2 points Warning from teacher or supervisor Warning from teacher or supervisor A call to parent followed by 30 minute after school detention to be served the day earned. 4th discipline signature = 3 points A call to the parent followed by a conference with the principal, teacher(s), and parents. The conference must take place after school on the day the 4th signature was given, or before school begins the following morning, at which time additional discipline may be administered. This may include but is not limited to community service, lunch detentions, or additional after school detentions. Student sent immediately to the principal. Student will be sent home for the remainder of the day. If the fifth level is reached prior to lunch, the student may return the following morning. However, if the fifth level is reached after lunch, the student may not return to class until after lunch the following day. A conference with the student, parent, classroom teacher, and principal will be required before student returns to school the next day. Student is expected to complete and turn in all homework missed. See HOMEWORK policy. 5th discipline signature = 4 points To prevent repeat offenses of minor infractions, and to address more serious offenses that may take place anywhere on school grounds, a point system will also be adhered to. Points are only given for the highest level reached for that day. Students will receive points for the following reasons: 1 point 2 points 3 points Reaching 3rd Level, or any SERIOUS OFFENSE Reaching 4th Level Reaching 5th Level 29 Consequences for Receiving Points will be as Follows: 6 points 10 points 14+ points Parent, student, classroom teacher and principal will have a conference prior to the student attending class on the following day Temporary suspension – 1 day out-of-school suspension (OSS) Principal’s discretion – Could include OSS or other appropriate action The point system begins over each quarterly grading period. The teachers and staff may administer other consequences for disciplinary infractions when necessary. Suspended students will not be on the honor roll for that quarter. Suspensions may render a student ineligible for field trips and other activities. Suspension is defined as any incident resulting in a student being sent home for any length of time as a disciplinary measure. DRUG OR ALCOHOL OFFENSES In case of drug/alcohol or controlled substance possession/use, the student will be suspended from school for 10 days. During this suspension, the student and parents will be encouraged to attend a counseling session centered on drug/alcohol use and abuse. If the student and parent sign a contract in which they agree to attend the recommended meetings, a student will be allowed back in school after a five-day suspension from school. In the event a second drug/alcohol possession and/or use offense occurs within a school year, or in cases involving extraordinary circumstances, the student will be suspended from school for 10 days with the possibility of an expulsion recommendation after an administrative review. Should a student be involved in the delivery, buying or selling of alcohol or drugs on school grounds, that student will be suspended for 10 days with the possibility of expulsion recommendation after an administrative review. In all drug/alcohol related incidents, the police will be notified. ELECTIVES SRA middle school students (grades 6-9) may take two electives each semester beyond their normal load of core subjects (language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science). We offer these electives in order to begin introducing students to the concept of course selection which is common in most middle and high school programs, and also to enrich student learning. That being said, we do not want participation in electives to interfere with or diminish a student’s success in their core subjects. As such, SRA’s policy regarding participation in electives is as follows: If a student has received a D or an F on his/her report card, s/he will be required to drop an elective class and enroll in Academic Prep. If a student receives more than one D or F on her/his report card, s/he will automatically be disenrolled from both electives and enrolled in two Academic Prep classes. Students may re-enroll in elective classes at the beginning of a new semester. 30 Students may enroll in electives one week before the start of each semester. Students who do not return their elective selection forms by the posted due date will automatically be enrolled in two (2) Academic Prep classes. Students may change electives only one time, and only within one week after the start of classes. No changes will be granted beyond the one-week period. Parent approval is required for all elective sign-ups and any subsequent change requests. Electives will be credited only one time. If a student repeats an elective by choice, rather than to improve a failing grade, the course will be considered non-credit and will not count toward GPA or accumulated transcript credits. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Crisis Plans and Drills Crisis intervention plans have been developed at the school and District levels to deal with emergency and crisis situations. Monthly drills are conducted to enable students and staff to practice responding to different emergency situations. In order to ensure the safe management of your child, each family must complete an Emergency Contact Form. This form must be updated whenever there is a change in address, home or work phone numbers, email, or emergency contacts. It is vital that parents keep the SRA Front Office up-to-date with this information in case of personal or school emergencies. Emergency Closing Please listen to the following local radio stations for school closure and early school dismissal announcements (KMIX 96.7 FM, and KRQU 98.7 FM). SRA will follow District-wide decisions made about school closings for emergencies and bad weather. Parents can subscribe to ACSD#1’s email alert system at http://www.ac1.k12.wy.us/ to receive messages about district school closures, delayed starts, or other important information. It is absolutely essential that SRA have current contact phone numbers and emails, along with emergency phone numbers for each family, so that emergency closings can proceed as quickly and efficiently as possible. Emergency Relocation In the event that students and staff need to be relocated to an alternative site for safety reasons, they will go to the Hampton Inn, SRA’s designated relocation site. The Hampton Inn is located immediately west of SRA at 3715 E. Grand Avenue; the phone number is 742-0125. If an emergency relocation occurs, parents will be notified through the automated notification system. Emergency Phone/Email Notification SRA will utilize an automated phone/email system to quickly relay information to all parents about school closures and/or school emergencies. Parents are expected to provide a preferred email/phone contact, and are responsible for keeping their information updated, notifying the school of any changes. Secure Campus In order to ensure the safety of students and staff, all exterior doors will remain locked except during student arrival and dismissal. Visitors to the building during school hours will be allowed admittance via security camera/intercom system. 31 ENROLLMENT, WAITING LIST, AND LOTTERY Admission Children who will be five years old on or before September 15 in the year of the school entry are eligible for Kindergarten. Children must be six years of age on or before September 15 to enter the first grade that year. A child who has completed a full year of Kindergarten the preceding year in the public schools of another district may qualify for enrollment in grade one on a probationary basis, regardless of age. Please bring your child’s birth certificate, and physiciansigned immunization record for registration. Students have thirty days in which to be caught up on immunizations or to inform the school of a verifiable appointment date for immunizations. Legal guardianship papers are required for any child living with someone other than biological or adoptive parents. General Policy It is the policy of SRA that every child will have equal access to a free and appropriate public education. Any K-9 child residing in Albany County may attend SRA on the basis of availability of openings. The number of students allowed to enroll in SRA is limited by contract. In order to comply with federal and state charter school statutes, a lottery must be used for enrollment in the event more students apply for admission to SRA than can be admitted. If such is the case, then a random lottery process will be instituted for student selection. Federal statute allows priority to be given to the following students: children who completed the previous school year at SRA, children of administrators, teachers and staff, and siblings of currently enrolled students. These students will be enrolled in classrooms based on the date of receipt of their letter of intent. Enrollment Process The school will accept and record, on an on-going basis, letters of intent for children whose parents desire to enroll them. Potential students may be added to the enrollment pool at any time during the year. To be included in the enrollment pool for the upcoming school year, parents must submit the letter of intent form no later than April 1st. The lottery will be held for each classroom in which demand exceeds supply on April 15th. This lottery determines the initial enrollment for the upcoming school year. Names may be drawn again before the start of school, if other openings occur. If parents/guardians are not present during the lottery drawings, they will be notified by phone or email of each child’s admission status. All enrollment/registration will be online using the ACSD#1 registration service, InfoSnap. Parents will be provided with a link via email, and will have fourteen (14) calendar days after the date of the email notification to complete the online enrollment process. If this registration is not complete by the two-week deadline, the child’s admission space will be given to the next eligible candidate. Students are not officially enrolled until all online enrollment is complete. Parents who will not be available at the phone or email listed on the letter of intent form during the notification period should contact SRA to make alternate arrangements. All paperwork required by state and/or federal law, including birth certificate and immunization record, must be submitted within 30 days of the first day of school. If documents are not 32 provided by that date, the student will not be allowed to attend SRA until such items are produced. Any student not submitting paperwork requested by SRA including, but not limited to, Honor Code and Internet Agreement, and/or payment of planner and locker fees may face consequences including out-of-school suspension, being prohibited from computer use, denied ability to check out library materials, etc. upon the discretion of the principal. Newly Enrolling Students Every attempt will be made to administer placement tests to each incoming student (in grades 19) prior to enrollment. The goal is to place the student in a grade level that will provide an academic year that is challenging and enriching, yet not excessively overwhelming. If new students are found to be reading more than one grade level behind their existing peer group, it will be recommended that the student enroll in the grade level deemed appropriate by the teacher and principal. If the parent chooses to keep the student in the original grade level against the advice of the teacher and principal, the parent will be required to sign a document stating their full understanding of the discrepancy, and agreement that the student may be retained the following year if promotion criteria is not met. This document will become part of the student’s cumulative file. Age is another criterion for placement in a grade level at SRA. A student must fall within District guidelines to enter a grade: A student must be 5 years old on or by September 15 to enter Kindergarten, and 6 years old on or by September 15th to enter first grade. Mid-Year Vacancies Vacancies during the school year may occur whenever the number of students enrolled in class is below that class’s capacity. When a vacancy occurs during the school year, that vacancy may or may not be filled at the school’s discretion. If SRA chooses to fill the vacancy, the prior lottery list has been exhausted, and there are more applicants in the enrollment pool than spaces available, the spaces will be filled by lottery among those students currently in the enrollment pool, with the exceptions listed below. Siblings In the case of lottery, to avoid splitting families, the oldest child will be entered in the lottery, and if that child is selected for admission, any younger siblings will be automatically admitted to their respective grade levels, if there is space. If the oldest child is not selected, the next younger siblings will be entered into the lottery for his or her grade level, and so forth. Delayed Kindergarten Enrollment If the parents/legal guardian of a Kindergarten student who is selected for enrollment at SRA chooses to delay enrollment to the next year, the child will be guaranteed placement in the next year's Kindergarten class. Removal from Enrollment Pool Names will be removed from the enrollment pool only after SRA office personnel verify the parent's/legal guardian's desire to have a child's name removed. Verification may be accomplished in person, by a phone call to SRA, or by receiving notification through the mail. 33 Lengthy Absence A family having a child or children in attendance at SRA may request the Board to make an exception to the waiting list/lottery policy to allow their child to reserve a space in SRA after a one-term or one-year absence. Any such exception shall be made on a case-by-case basis by the Board, in consultation with the principal. During the absence, the parents must re-sign their children, or otherwise notify the school in writing of their intent to re-enroll for the following school year. If the school has not received written notification from the parent by April 1 of the year the parents wish to re-enroll their child, the opening will no longer be available. Non-Resident Students Students who reside outside of the School District shall not be admitted to the School until all applicants who reside in the School District and who qualify for admission have been enrolled. Students who reside within Wyoming but not in Albany County must have an acceptable agreement with their district of residence and the School District in accordance with W.S. § 21-4502. If they reside outside of Wyoming they must pay tuition in accordance with W.S. § 21-4-505. FIELD TRIPS Snowy Range Academy recognizes the value of educational field trips to maximize learning. At the same time it is understood that the school is not and cannot be responsible for all student travel, and that parents and other community organizations can provide these kinds of experiences for children as well. SRA faculty requesting field trips should consider opportunities which provide significant contribution to instructional purposes but weigh the benefit against other factors such as efficiency, convenience and cost. Parents should feel free to suggest field trip ideas to faculty or the principal. Field Trip Guidelines All field trips must meet specific educational requirements prior to approval. In the event parents have questions about the relevance of the trip, they are encouraged to ask the SRA faculty sponsor(s). Note: All academic and school-related field trips during regular instructional time will be funded by SRA based on limitations of the school budget. This includes: transportation, activity costs, lodging and meals beyond the first meal of the trip. Cell phones and other electronic devices that are brought on the field trip must be kept turned off and in the student’s backpack during the activity. Ipods, MP3 players, or cell phones may be used during the bus ride at the discretion of the teacher. SRA is not responsible for loss or theft of personal items. Student Eligibility Field trips are a privilege. Students are ineligible for field trips and extracurricular activities if they have two D’s or one F in any subject. Behavioral misconduct will also render a student ineligible for these activities: one suspension in a quarter or three in one semester will render a student ineligible for any field trip or extracurricular activity for the remainder of that quarter, four or more suspensions will render the student ineligible for all field trips, extracurricular activities, and 34 school functions for the remainder of the year. Exceptions to this policy are at the discretion of the principal. Parents may choose not to authorize their child’s attendance for any field trip. In the event it is a full day trip, parents will be required to keep child home that day. If a student is not attending the trip by parent choice, s/he will be given an excused absence and additional assignments to complete. Permission Slips No student will be allowed to attend a field trip unless the form is returned by the designated deadline, as noted on each individual form. Verbal permission over the phone will not be accepted. Siblings Siblings from other classes will not be excused from class to attend the field trip, nor are other siblings allowed to attend the field trip due to liability purposes. All field trips are for currently enrolled SRA students only. Meals The first meal of the day (lunch or dinner) is provided by the participant. Students eligible for free/reduced lunch may obtain a sack lunch through food services if advance notice is given. Subsequent meals are then provided by SRA or included in the cost of participation. Chaperones for Day Field Trips All field trips shall be supervised and chaperoned by at least one certified or contracted school employee on any trip. The chaperone to student ratio must be a minimum of 1:6 for grades K-3 and 1:10 for grades 4-9. Any persons, either school or non-school personnel, serving as chaperones shall be approved by the principal or designee after a successful background check has been conducted. The purpose of the chaperone is to maintain close supervision for SRA students. As such, siblings will not be permitted to attend field trips. Transportation The District shall provide transportation and drivers for approved field trips. The use of private vehicles for transporting small groups of students may be authorized by the principal in certain instances. Whenever approved volunteer parents are driving, each driver must complete the Volunteer Field Trip Driver Application which includes submitting a copy of his/her driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance a minimum of one week in advance. Guidelines for Extended (Overnight) Field Trips Extended (overnight) field trips must be approved by the SRA Board. Funding for such trips will depend on annual budget limitations and may require parent contributions. Extended field trips shall be directly related to a course or area of study in accordance with established curriculum guidelines and shall be based upon clearly stated, educationally related objectives. The field trip shall include instruction by an SRA staff member and/or tour guide. Such instruction will begin prior to departure and must be accounted for upon submitting a final report to the SRA principal. 35 Middle school students participating in extended field trips will receive course credit and a letter grade that will appear on their report card. Male and female chaperones will be present on overnight trips if students of both genders are participating in the trip. In selecting adult chaperones, priority will be given to SRA staff members. Ordinarily, a sufficient number of adult chaperones must accompany the extended field trip to ensure the safety and good conduct of students. The recommended ratio is one adult chaperone for every 10 or fewer students in grades 4-9. SRA faculty sponsors are responsible for informing accompanying adults of their duties and responsibilities. The principal is responsible for final approval of all adult chaperones. SRA staff members, parents, and other adults may accompany students on extended field trips provided they receive prior approval from the principal or designee to do so. These participants may not share lodging with SRA students unless written permission has been granted by the principal. All participants are expected to follow the same tour itinerary, comply with the same behavioral expectations that apply to SRA students, and pay their own expenses. Participants who are not SRA faculty, staff, or students must be registered SRA volunteers and have completed a background check as required by SRA and ACSD#1 for all volunteers. All parent participants must be willing to serve as chaperones. Exceptions to this policy are at the discretion of the principal. Students whose conduct is disruptive to the trip or in violation of the trip requirements may be disciplined or sent home by the SRA faculty sponsor(s). A student may not, however, be sent home without prior arrangement with the principal or designee and the student’s parents/guardians. The student’s family is responsible for any additional cost incurred in sending a student home early. Students who misbehave may be barred from future field trips at principal’s discretion. GRIEVANCES Communications from Parents We encourage parents to communicate quickly with teachers, administrators, and staff of SRA when they have a question or concern. The best communication is a face-to-face meeting, which you can set up by e-mail, placing a note in the SRA office (the office manager will deliver it), or voice mail. All parents should be aware that the purpose of the grievance policy is to resolve problems. Your use of the policy, where appropriate, will not be viewed negatively. It is an important tool in the school’s problem solving tool kit and helps us to address issues of concern falling within the policy. Teachers and staff are very busy right before and after school hours, so please schedule a faceto-face meeting ahead of time to allow sufficient time to talk. Response timeline: Once you have contacted an SRA employee, you can expect a timely response. Administrators (principal or operations manager) – should respond no later than 36 three business days Faculty – will make every effort to respond within 1 business day, and no more than 2 business days Staff: SRA Front Office – you will receive a response from someone in the office within 1 business day Paraprofessionals – questions should be directed to the classroom teacher, who will discuss the matter with the paraprofessional before responding Recess/Lunch Monitor, Substitute Teacher – please contact the principal Custodians – please contact the operations manager Parent Suggestions, Questions, and Complaints SRA's core curriculum and educational philosophy are established in our charter, and cannot be changed by the administration or Board. Specific instructional materials and detailed policies are constantly reviewed for improvement, and SRA values parent input on these. An important element of the accountability process is to provide an avenue for parent suggestions and concerns that both satisfies the parents and improves the operation of the school. Here is the procedure for parent suggestions and complaints about school curriculum and policies: 1. The concern should be referred to the lowest administrative level to resolve the conflict in the shortest time possible. This referral should be done via a scheduled appointment with the teacher, administrators, or appropriate staff member. This person should summarize the results of the concern and convey them to the appropriate administrator. 2. If the parent is not satisfied with the response from the initial meeting with teacher or staff, the parent should next schedule a meeting with the appropriate administrator. The objectives of this meeting shall be to clarify and resolve the matter in a timely fashion. The administrator shall respond in writing to the parent within seven business days. 3. If the parent is not satisfied with the written response from the administrator, the parent may file a written complaint ("grievance") to the BOD. If more than one complaint is filed and the complaints are substantially alike, they shall be treated as one complaint. The parent should attach the written response from the administrator to the parent complaint material. The complaint material shall be submitted to the Chair of the SRA Board. Following receipt of the complaint, the following action will take place: o The SRA Board shall meet and confer about the complaint at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting o Within seven business days after the meeting, the Board Chair shall communicate the decision in writing to the administrator, teacher, and parent. 4. Informal questions or minor concerns can be raised during Audience Communications at a regular Board meeting. However, note that this only allows brief comments, and that the Board will only listen to audience comments; it will not make decisions at that time. The Board has the option of referring topics of concern to an appropriate committee, or of taking it up for discussion at a later meeting. 37 Parent Complaint About SRA Personnel Out of respect for the SRA community, complaints should be resolved at the first level (that is, as close to the source of the problem as possible). The complaint must go through the proper administrative steps before it may go to the Board (otherwise, the Board will return it to the first levels to be handled). If you have a concern or complaint about an SRA employee, follow this procedure: 1. The complaint should first be discussed directly with the SRA employee in a personal meeting. While an appointment may be scheduled via email or phone, the actual appointment itself should be face-to-face. The employee should respond in writing to the parent, summarizing the meeting results along with agreed upon solutions. This written response should be sent within seven business days of the face-to-face meeting with the parent. If the solution is to ‘agree to disagree’, this solution should be documented by the employee along with a short rationale of the decision. The employee will share this information with the appropriate administrator. 2. If the parent's concern is with an administrator, or if Step 1 did not resolve the complaint with the employee, the parent shall schedule an appointment with the administrator. The objectives of this meeting shall be to clarify and resolve the matter in a timely fashion. The administrator shall document the date of the face-to-face meeting and shall respond in writing to the parent within seven days regarding his/her decision. 3. If the parent is not satisfied with the written response from the administrator, the parent may file a written complaint. If more than one complaint is filed and the complaints are substantially alike, they shall be treated as one complaint. The parent should attach the written response from the employee and administrator to the parent complaint material. The complaint material shall be submitted to the SRA Board. Following receipt of the complaint, the following action will take place: o The SRA Board shall meet and confer about the complaint at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting and the meeting shall take place in Executive Session. o Within seven business days after the meeting, the Board Chair shall communicate the decision in writing to the administrator, employee, and parent. HARASSMENT/HAZING/BULLYING Our students should expect to be in a school environment that promotes positive interactions between students and adults. In addition to being a reasonable expectation, an environment free of harassment, hazing, and bullying is the law. We expect our students to follow the law and to be sensitive to the feelings of both children and adults. We will not tolerate any less than that. SRA adheres to ACSD#1’s policy, which states: 38 Policy Prohibiting Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying The Albany County School District #1 (ACSD) is committed to a safe and civil educational environment for all students, employees, volunteers, and patrons free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. ACSD prohibits harassment, intimidation or bullying of students at school. "Harassment, intimidation, or bullying" is defined as any intentional gesture, or any intentional electronic communication, or any intentional written, verbal or physical act initiated, occurring or received at school that a reasonable person under the circumstances should know will have the effect of: Harming a student physically or emotionally, damaging a student's property or placing a student in reasonable fear of personal harm or property damage; Insulting or demeaning a student or group of students causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the schools; or Creating an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment for a student or group of students through sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive behavior." (W.S. 21-4-312) Harassment, intimidation or bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendos, demeaning comments, drawings, cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written, oral or physical actions. "Intentional acts" refers to the individual's choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the action(s). "School" includes a classroom or other location on school premises, a school bus or other school-related vehicle, a school bus stop, an activity or event sponsored by a school, whether or not it is held on school premises, and any other program or function where the school is responsible for the child (21-4-311 (a)(i)(C)(ii). In the event of any ambiguity, this policy should be interpreted in conformity with the Wyoming Safe School Climate Act W.S. 21-4-311 through 21-4-315. This policy is not intended to prohibit expression of religious, philosophical, or political views, provided that the expression does not substantially disrupt the educational environment. Many behaviors that do not rise to the level of harassment, intimidation or bullying may still be prohibited by other district policies or building, classroom, or program rules. This policy is a component of the district's responsibility to create and maintain a safe, civil, respectful; and inclusive learning community and is to be implemented in conjunction with comprehensive training of staff, including the education of students in partnership with families and community. Employees, in particular, are expected to support the dignity and safety of all members of the school community. Depending upon the frequency and severity of the conduct, corrective action, including but not limited to intervention, counseling, correction, age appropriate routine school discipline and/or referral to law enforcement will be used to remediate the impact on the victim (student) and the climate and change the behavior of the perpetrator (student, staff, school volunteer or patron). 39 This includes appropriate intervention, restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the violation. Retaliation for reports of harassment, intimidation or bullying is also expressly prohibited. "Retaliation" means any verbal or physical action taken against any person who reports, files a complaint, or participates in an investigation. Retaliation is considered a serious violation of board policy, independent of whether the underlying complaint is substantiated. The possible consequences for retaliation are the same as for harassment, intimidation or bullying. Alleged perpetrators and anyone involved in the investigation will be told that retaliation is prohibited and the potential consequences of retaliation. School personnel may contact law enforcement or take such other reasonable steps as may be necessary to protect participants from retaliation. False accusations, reports or complaints of harassment, intimidation or bullying shall also be regarded as a serious offense and will result in disciplinary action as stated above. The Superintendent is authorized to direct the development and implementation of procedures addressing the elements of this policy, consistent with W.S. 21-4-311 through W.S. 21-4-315, 21-4305, and 21-4-306. SRA works hard with students through the character education program to teach them about bullying and bully prevention. However, it is still possible for bullying to occur. In the event that a student or parent would like to file a formal report about bullying, this report must be made in writing to the principal. The SRA principal then has three school days to investigate the claim. This investigation may include interviews with students, staff and parents and will be used to determine the validity of the allegation. At the end of the investigation, the principal will notify the original reporter about the outcome of the investigation (substantiated or unsubstantiated) but will not disclose specific information about the interviews or consequences. As necessary, the principal will also meet with parents of other students to discuss the outcome of the investigation and to provide consequences. These consequences can include detention and/or suspension based on the severity of the findings. It is the expectation of SRA that parents will support the outcome of the investigation as well as any consequences that may be required. Sexual Harassment and Discrimination SRA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its educational programs or activities. Inquiries concerning Title VI, Title IX and Section 504 may be referred to the principal, operations manager, or Wyoming Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights Coordinator. SRA does not condone or tolerate sexual harassment or discrimination of students by employees, other students, or non-employees. Any employee or student who engages in sexual harassment of students will be subject to disciplinary action. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment. 40 HEALTH Illness Policy Do not bring sick children to school. Please refer to the following informational chart to determine if/when children should be kept at home. If your child is absent because of illness or an appointment, for which we have not been notified previously, please call to make us aware of this situation before 9:00 a.m. If your child is ill, homework may be sent home with a sibling, or picked up between 3:30 and 4:00 p.m. If you need to take your child out of school early, please provide a note to the SRA Front Office at the beginning of the school day. The teacher will not interrupt class time to give homework assignments for the day. Middle School students in grades 6-9 are responsible for collecting their homework upon their return to school. Middle School homework is also posted on PowerSchool, as well as the school website. NOTE: The following chart is intended as a GUIDELINE for parents. This document has been reviewed and approved by designated staff of Children’s Colorado. It is intended to supplement, not replace, medical information provided by the healthcare provider. Adapted from: Children’s Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Avenue B 215, Aurora, Colorado 80045 • 303-281-2790. The School Health Program of Children’s Hospital Colorado provides school and child care health consultation and services in a variety of settings in Colorado. ILLNESS POLICY – HOW SICK IS TOO SICK? There are three main reasons to keep sick children at home: 1. The child doesn’t feel well enough to take part in normal. 2. The child needs more care than teachers and staff can give, and still care for the other children. 3. The illness is on this list and staying home is recommended. Children with the following symptoms or illness should be kept home (excluded) from school: SYMPTOMS Child Must Be at Home? DIARRHEA frequent, loose or watery stools compared to child’s normal ones that are not caused by food or medicine FEVER with behavior change or other illness Yes - if child looks or acts sick; if child has diarrhea with fever and isn’t acting normally; if child has diarrhea with vomiting; if child has diarrhea Yes, when the child also has a rash, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, behavior changes, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, etc. “FLU-LIKE” SYMPTOMS Fever over 100°F with a cough or sore throat. Other flu symptoms can include tiredness, body aches, vomiting and diarrhea Yes - for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone, without the use of medicine that reduces the fever COUGHING Note: Children with asthma may go to school with a written health care plan and the school is allowed to give them medicine and treatment Yes - if severe, uncontrolled coughing or wheezing, rapid or difficulty breathing and medical attention is necessary 41 Mild RESPIRATORY OR COLD SYMPTOMS No - may attend if able to take part in school activities stuffy nose with clear drainage, sneezing, mild cough Keep home if symptoms are severe. This includes fever and the child is not acting normally and/or has trouble breathing. RASH WITH FEVER Note: Body rash without fever or behavior changes usually does not need to stay home from school, call the doctor Yes – call the doctor. Any rash that spreads quickly, has open, weeping wounds and/or is not healing should be evaluated VOMITING Throwing up two or more times in the past 24 hrs Yes - until vomiting stops or a doctor says it is not contagious. If the child has a recent head injury watch for other signs of illness and for dehydration CHICKEN POX Yes - until blisters have dried and crusted (usually 6 days) CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE) No (bacterial or viral) – children don’t need to stay home unless the child has a fever or behavioral changes. Call the doctor for diagnosis and possible treatment. pink color of eye and thick yellow/green discharge CROUP (SEE COUGHING) Note: May not need to stay home unless child is not well enough to take part in usual activities Seek medical advice FIFTH’S DISEASE No - child is no longer contagious once rash appears HAND FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE (Coxsackie virus) No - unless the child has mouth sores, is drooling and isn’t able to take part in usual activities HEAD LICE OR SCABIES Yes - from end of the school day until after first treatment. HEPATITIS A Yes - until 1 week after the start of the illness and when able to take part in usual activities HERPES No, unless - the child has open sores that cannot be covered or is drooling uncontrollably IMPETIGO Yes - for 24 hours after starting antibiotics RINGWORM Yes - from end of school until after starting treatment Keep area covered for the first 2 days ROSEOLA Yes – if the child has a fever and rash, call the doctor RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Staying home isn’t necessary, but is recommended when a child is not well enough to take part in usual activities and/or is experiencing acute respiratory symptoms. Call the doctor. RSV spreads quickly through classrooms STREP THROAT Yes - for 24 hours after starting antibiotics and the child is able to take part in usual activities VACCINE PREVENTABLE DISEASES Measles, Mumps, Rubella (German Measles), Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Yes – the doctor says the child is no longer contagious 42 YEAST INFECTIONS including thrush or Candida diaper rash No - follow good hand washing and hygiene practices References American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health Association, National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education. 2011. Caring for our children: National health and safety performance standards; Guidelines for early care and education programs. 3rd edition. Elk Grove Village, IL. American Academy of Pediatrics, Managing Infectious Diseases in Child Care and Schools, 3rd Edition, Elk Grove Village, IL 2013. Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Communicable Disease Epidemiology Program, Infectious Disease in Child Care Settings: Guidelines for Schools and Child Care Providers, Denver, CO, October 2013. ADAPTED FROM: Children’s Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Avenue B 215, Aurora, Colorado 80045 • 303-281-2790 The School Health Program of Children’s Hospital Colorado provides school and child care health consultation and services in a variety of settings in Colorado. This document has been reviewed and approved by designated staff of Children’s Colorado. It is intended to supplement, not replace, medical information provided by the healthcare provider. Nurse SRA has a part-time school nurse who is responsible for checking the general health of students. The nurse also works in the area of communicable diseases, accidents, and illnesses that occur at school. All parents are welcome to ask for assistance from the nurse with any health problem they may have with their children. Please note that it is the parent's responsibility to notify the office if a child has been injured at home and may need special considerations at school. Keep school records up-to-date, especially phone numbers and emergency contacts! Accident/Injury Parents will be informed when a student reports to the office with a fever or has been injured seriously. If a parent cannot be reached, school personnel will determine what action needs to be taken. Any child with a fever or vomiting will not be allowed to remain in the classroom. If a head injury is sustained, or any injury requiring medical attention, the parent will be asked to come to school and determine what action should be taken. In case of more serious injuries or if the parent or other emergency contact cannot be reached, the school will immediately call 911 for emergency assistance. Medication For the protection of students, SRA follows the Albany County School District #1 policy for administering any form of medication at school. School personnel may not administer any medication to pupils without a written request on file in the office. If a physician decides that medication must be taken during school hours, proper arrangements must be made with the school. Expectations are that: 1. “Medication” shall include prescription and non-prescription drugs intended for the diagnosis, cure, treatment, or prevention of any illness, disease, or other conditions adversely affecting the individual. 2. Each medicine to be self-administered by the student shall only occur under the supervision of the SRA nurse or other-designated school personnel. 3. Neither SRA, nor any of its personnel, shall be responsible for medication taken by a student or administered by the parent or legal guardian without supervision of designated school personnel. Likewise, SRA and its personnel will not be responsible 43 4. 5. 6. 7. for the drug itself. Supervising personnel will only ensure that medication is taken in specified dosages at specified times. Each medicine will be self-administered only under the supervision of designated personnel when a “Request for Supervision of/Self-Administration of Medication at School” form has been signed by the parent/guardian, the prescribing physician, and approved by the principal and the school nurse. These are to be renewed on an annual basis. The “Request for Supervision of/Self-Administration of Medication at School” form must be completed and on file with the school office prior to supervision of any selfadministered medication. Forms are available in the SRA Front Office. Medication which is to be self-administered under the supervision of school personnel will: a. be in its original pharmaceutical container. If not in the original container, personnel shall not allow it to be taken. b. remain in the designated secured area of the school. Students will not be permitted to keep their medication in their possession while at school. A record shall be maintained of each time the medication is taken, including the child’s name, medication name and dosage, time, date, and signature of the person who supervised the student taking the medication. SRA personnel will be trained in supervision of medication self-administration by the school nurse or other qualified personnel. Exceptions 8. In the event that exceptions are needed, individual adjustments to this policy may be made with approval of the principal or school nurse (e.g., students may be allowed to carry their own asthma inhalers or Epi-Pen auto-injections if ordered by a physician). 9. In the event that a student is incapable of supervised self-administration of medication, his/her medication will be administered by a school nurse or by the parents. For students to whom medication must be administered, the school nurse and parent(s)/guardian(s) will meet to discuss the logistics of the administration of the medication. The principal and/or the teacher(s) of the student may be invited to this meeting. Self-Administration Of Asthma Medication The following policy change is recommended in order to comply with Wyoming Statute 21-4-310 (Self-Administration of Asthma Medication): Students may possess and self-administer asthma medication within the school setting (which includes in school, on school grounds, on school buses, at school activities off the school site, etc.) if a written statement is submitted to the principal (or the principal’s designee) by the student containing the following: (a) Parental verification that (1) the student is responsible for and capable of selfadministration and parental authorization for self-administration of asthma medication, (2) the medication carried by the student in the school setting will always be current (i.e. not expired) and of the proper dosage, (3) the student will always have the proper medication while in the school setting; and (4) a back-up of the child’s prescribed 44 medication will be provided to the school nurse to be used only in the event the student cannot locate his/her medication; and (b) Physician identification of the prescribed or authorized medication and verification of the appropriateness of the student’s possession and self-administration of the asthma medication. The form to be used for the written statement shall be the one developed by the Wyoming Department of Education and will require signatures from the parent or guardian of the student and the student’s physician or physician’s representative. For a copy of this form, please see or call the school nurse. Nurses or other school personnel shall have the right to examine medication carried by students to ensure that it is current and previously authorized to be carried in the school setting. Nurses or other school personnel may require students to demonstrate that they can properly use an inhaler before students are allowed to possess and self-administer asthma medication in the school setting. As used in this policy, “asthma medication” means prescription or nonprescription inhaled asthma medication. This policy implements Wyoming Statute 21-4-310. Immunization All school children are required by state law to be immunized against certain vaccine-preventable diseases. These diseases include diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps and rubella (German or three-day measles). The law further requires that children may be exempted from this regulation for religious or medical reasons if an appropriate case for exemption is made to the state. Proof of adequate immunization on a form provided by the state health officer must be presented to the individual school within 30 calendar days of the student’s first day of attendance. Any question regarding this regulation should be directed to the school nurse. Wyoming School Immunization Requirements (Kindergarten – Grade 12) Effective 2010-2011 School Year (Updated 01/07/11) Minimum Immunization Requirements Parents/guardians must provide proof of immunization or provide documentation of medical or religious exemption from mandatory immunizations. Diphtheria/tetanus/acellular pertussis (DtaP) or Diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis (DTP) or Diphtheria/tetanus (DT) Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) Hepatitis B (hep B) Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) Polio (IPV) Tetanus/diphtheria/acellular Kindergarten-Grade 6 Grade 7-12 5 doses1 n/a 1-4 doses2 3 doses 2 doses 3-4 doses4 n/a n/a 2-3 doses3 2 doses 3-4 doses 1 doses 45 pertussis (Tdap)5 2 doses (or documented history of disease)7 Varicella (chickenpox) FOOTNOTES 1 2 doses (or documented history of disease)7 th If a fourth (4th) dose of DTaP vaccine was administered on or after a child’s fourth (4 ) birthday, and at least six (6) months has passed since the third (3rd) dose, a fifth (5th) dose is not required. 2 The number of primary doses of Hib vaccine is determined by vaccine product and age the series begins. If a child has not received the completed series of Hib vaccine and is younger than 60 months (5 years) of age, the child should receive one (1) dose of the Hib vaccine. Hib vaccine is not required for children older than 59 months of age. 3 th th Students who are in the 11 or 12 grade during the 2010-2011 school year will be required to have at least 2 doses of hepatitis B vaccine, according to the previous Rules and Regulations for School Immunizations. 4 th th th rd Children who receive three (3) doses of IPV before the fourth (4 ) birthday should receive a fourth (4 ) dose before or at school entry. The fourth (4 ) dose is not needed if the third (3 ) dose is th th given on or after the fourth (4 ) birthday. If all four (4) doses are given after six (6) weeks of age and are all separated by at least four (4) weeks, a fifth (5 ) dose is not needed, even if the th fourth (4 ) dose was administered before four (4) years of age. 5 Children eleven (11) years of age and older should receive the Tdap vaccine. Children with a medical contraindication to the pertussis (whooping cough) antigen should receive Td instead of the Tdap vaccine. Tdap vaccine may be administered to a child regardless of the interval since the last tetanus- or diphtheria-toxoid containing vaccine. 6 If a child in grades seven (7) through 12 received a Td booster after their seventh birthday but before age 11, he/she will be exempt until 10 years have elapsed since that dose was given. During the 2010-2011 school year, any student in grades eight (8) through 12 are considered exempt with the immunization requirements for TDaP. 7 If a child has had chickenpox, the parent, guardian, school nurse, or physician must provide a written statement for the student’s permanent school record. For assistance, contact Diana Martin, R.N., Clinical Quality & Compliance Specialist, Immunization Section, (307) 789-2665 or by email at diana.martin@health.wyo.gov HOMEWORK Homework is a fundamental part of our academic program. It prepares students for high school and college, and for jobs after graduation. It also helps develop a strong work ethic and personal organizational skills. The reasons for homework are: 1. To teach personal responsibility and time management skills. 2. To keep parents informed about what their children are studying. 3. To provide opportunity to practice academic concepts learned in class. The expected homework time allotment Kindergarten Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 9 for each grade is as follows: 15 minutes plus family reading time 20 minutes plus family reading time 25 minutes plus reading time 35 minutes plus reading time 45 minutes plus reading time 55 minutes plus reading time 65 minutes plus reading time 75 minutes plus reading time 85 minutes plus reading time 2 hours plus reading time The designated times serve as guidelines and may vary depending on the work assigned on a given day, the schedule, the student’s organizational skills and study habits, and the nature of the assignments. All students, K-9, receive homework four nights a week Exceptions will be before holidays, and nights that all students are encouraged to participate in SRA activities such as the Annual Meeting, concerts, or drama productions. In an effort to prepare 9th grade students for transition 46 into high school, students may occasionally be assigned homework over a weekend. Parents and students need to be aware that if students do not finish their daily work in class, that work must be completed and returned in addition to the regular homework and should not be considered a part of the actual homework time. Homework activities will vary by class. They might include: reading; writing; math facts practice; memorization (such as poetry or important dates); take-home activities for science, history, or geography; practice spelling words; review and edit class notes, or other tasks assigned by the teacher. Middle school teachers will coordinate their schedules and calendars to ensure that students are not inundated with excessive homework on the same day. It is expected that homework will be completed each night and returned to class the next school day. One ticket will be pulled for late or incomplete homework. In middle school there will be one signature given for each late or incomplete assignment up to three signatures. For poor or incomplete work, teachers may require students to redo an assignment. Whether such work is given any credit is left to the discretion of the teacher. Make-Up Work A student who is sick has one day for each day missed to make up homework without having a penalty, unless other arrangements are made with the teacher. Parents with students in grades K-5 may pick-up their child’s assignments at the end of the school day. Middle school students are responsible for contacting their teachers regarding making up missed assignments and exams. If a student is participating in a school-approved academic activity, the student will be permitted 1 day to make up assignments for each day of participation in the activity. If a student is present when an assignment is given and is absent before or on the due date, the assignment is still due on the given date or upon the student’s return to school. Students who miss school for reasons other than illness or death in the family are expected to turn homework and special projects in on their due date. Students who are sent home early or suspended as a result of a discipline issue are required to turn homework and special projects in on time. To ensure that this happens, parents are expected to pick-up their child’s assignments at the end of the school day. Parents have the ultimate responsibility for following through with the consistent discipline of homework. Parents will assist students with homework by providing a time, place, and quiet environment for their child. Students in grades 2-9 utilize weekly planners to help develop organizational skills. Assignments are to be entered daily. Parents are asked to sign all homework forms or planners indicating that they have seen the assignments. (Please don’t do the work for your children. Support them in doing the best job they can, then sign to indicate that you have seen that the assignment is completed. Signing does not mean that you guarantee that the answers are right!). Classroom teachers will provide homework guidelines for each grade at the beginning of the year. 47 The following sequence of consequences applies to grades K-9 regular (daily—e.g., math homework, spelling words, etc.) homework that is not turned in during or before the assigned class time on the day that it is due: Day Due: 2nd Day: 3rd Day: If homework is not turned in, a ticket or signature is pulled (= not prepared for class). If homework is turned in at the start of the class period of the day after it is due, it will be accepted, but 20% will be docked from whatever the earned grade would be. A zero will be given for homework turned in on the third or later day. Special Projects During the year a minimum of one poem each quarter will be assigned to students for memorization and recitation. Individual recitations may take place in the classroom, or as a whole class during school assemblies. In addition, students will complete at least one written book report/book analysis/research paper per quarter/semester. The books will need to be approved by the teacher. Each student should keep a reading book in his/her desk at all times. From time to time, teachers may assign longer-term projects with a specific deadline. As with homework it is expected that the student will turn in his/her work on the date it is due. Teachers will deduct 20% from a student’s earned grade for each day that a special project is late for up to five days; if the assignment is still not turned in by the start of the class period on the sixth day, the student will receive a zero (0%) on the assignment. In addition to regular classroom assignments, we would like each child to read, or be read to every day for at least 15 minutes. Becoming a good reader is critical to being a good student, and the first step to being able to explore the world. By making sure your child is reading at home, you are directly contributing to his or her education. By reading to your child and participating in this process as a parent, you encourage your child's growth and strengthen family ties. By reading in front of your children, you model good habits and reinforce your expectations. JEANS DAY Periodically, the school will hold Jeans Day. Students who choose to pay $1.00 will be allowed to wear denim jeans with their uniform top. Denim jeans will only be allowed on designated Jeans Days. If denim jeans are worn any other time, a uniform citation will be issued and parents will be called to bring uniform pants. The money raised on Jeans Day will go to the Student Council for projects in the school. Guidelines for jeans worn on Jeans Day are as follow: No words or logos on the jeans (besides Brand logo) Small amounts of embroidery will be allowed as long as it is a school appropriate design such as flowers or butterflies. (Not allowed: words or skull and crossbones.) Must wear regular school belt (with the exception of Kindergarten) No rips or holes No key chains No baggy or excessively wide-legged jeans No cargo pants 48 Denim must be blue or black in color (no pink or purple jeans) No denim capris, shorts, or skirts are allowed Shirts need to be tucked in and jeans need to be clean. Students who forget their money will be given a chance to call home for money or uniform pants. Students who do not follow the Jeans Day guideline will be asked to call home for an appropriate school uniform. If the problem cannot be fixed, a uniform citation will be issued. Students will pay for the jeans in the front lobby and be given a stamp as a receipt. LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS A child shall not be released from the school premises at any time other than regular dismissal time unless a parent or guardian personally picks him/her up, and unless approval of the principal has been given. At no time shall a child be allowed to leave during any before- or after-school events unless accompanied by a school-approved adult. (Note: adjacent retail outlets are NOT part of school premises.) The only people who may pick up your children at school during school hours are those named on your child’s emergency contact information sheet. Parents who wish to have individuals who are under 18 pick up their child must include the authorized person(s) on their emergency list. Parents or guardians are required to sign their child(ren) out when taking them out of school in the middle of the school day. If it is necessary for a parent/guardian to pick up a child during the school day, you are asked to come to the school office. The school secretary will then arrange for the child to come to the office to meet his/her parent. If you pick up a child at noon or during recess, the same procedure applies. Also, if waiting to pick up a child at the end of the school day, please do not go to the child's class and wait outside the door. Rather, wait in the school lobby until the child comes to meet you. Waiting by a classroom door can be disruptive for the class. LIBRARY POLICY The school library serves both students and teachers with materials that support the educational goals of Snowy Range Academy. Our fiction materials are chosen to appeal to the range of Lexile levels and interests represented in the student body. Because of our desire to provide quality literature at all levels, we have a large collection of Caldecott and Newbery award winners. A middle school section is provided to house those books that might not be appropriate for younger grades. Nonfiction books match the Core Knowledge curriculum whenever possible. For those students who prefer to read nonfiction, we also provide a selection of books in the various Dewey categories that are popular for leisure reading. In order to support the reading growth of the students, library personnel work closely with classroom teachers. We use Lexile levels determined by standardized tests to match students and books to both support and challenge all readers. LOCKERS SRA will assign a regular and a P.E. locker and two (2) combination locks to all middle school 49 students (grades 6-9). Students may not bring their own locks from home. A deposit of $20 will be required for the two combination locks which will be refunded in full when the locks are returned in good working order. Students will be held responsible for any excessive damage to their locks and lockers. If more than one replacement set of locks needs to be issued within a school year, the student will be charged full replacement costs. Locker combinations are not to be given to anyone. SRA has the authority to search lockers when deemed necessary. Problems with lockers should be reported to the SRA Front Office. SRA is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items. Valuables such as radios, mp3 players, pagers and video games are not to be brought to school. Cell phones, if brought to school, are to be kept turned off and in the student’s locker. Lockers must be kept neat and orderly at all times. Locker checks will occur each semester. Lockers must be kept closed and locked when not in use to maintain the integrity of the fire corridors and avoid accidents. Items outside lockers, or on the floor, may be removed or discarded. Locker shelves are the only allowable organization accessory. The shelf must not exceed 10” x 12” and should not interfere with the closure of the locker door. Students may not decorate the inside of their lockers with inappropriate posters, pictures, or anything else which advertises sex, drugs, suicide, cults, alcohol, or promotes other negative or derogatory messages as determined by SRA staff. LOST AND FOUND Lost clothing, notebooks, lunch boxes, and other items will be placed in the “Lost and Found” box located just outside the SRA Front Office. Jewelry, glasses, and items of value will be placed in the SRA Front Office for safekeeping. Identification will be required for their safe return. Any items left at the end of each semester will be donated to a local charity, the Uniform Committee, or discarded. All items left at the end of the school year will be donated or disposed of ONE WEEK AFTER THE LAST DAY OF SCHOOL. LUNCH Hot lunch will be provided by ACSD#1 for $2.55/day for elementary students and $2.80/day for middle school students. Students who qualify for reduced price lunch will pay $0.40/day. Milk is included with lunch. Regular and chocolate milk will be provided by ACSD#1 for 40 cents/day. Parents are encouraged to send monthly payments for lunch and milk. ACSD#1 will record your payment in your child’s lunch account in PowerSchool. Please send separate payment for each child. Checks should be made out to ACSD#1. If sending cash, please send it in a sealed envelope with your child’s name on the front. Students who do not purchase lunch from ACSD#1 will need to bring their own lunch to school each day. Microwaves are not available for warming lunches, so please be sure to pack your child’s lunch in a thermal container if you wish for them to have a hot meal. ACSD’s policy for students who accrue a negative lunch balance is as follows: 50 $10.00-$74.00 negative Written notification will be mailed home by ACSD#1. balance $75.00+ negative balance Student will be provided with a cheese sandwich, apple, and milk for lunch. Student will be charged the full meal price for this lunch. This will continue until the unpaid balance is paid. Please note this policy does not apply to any students who qualify for free/reduced lunch. PARKING LOT PROCEDURES In order to provide a safe and secure environment for students, we request that parents adhere to the following parking lot procedures. TEACHERS AND STAFF parking spaces are designated to be three lanes of spaces directly in front of the jersey barriers and front entrance. PARENTS AND VISITORS parking spaces are designated to be three lanes of spaces to the west of the employee spaces on either side of the Parent Car Circle Drop Off and along Boulder Drive, and one lane of spaces to the east of the employee spaces near the Dollar Tree store. Parents may pick up their students in the lobby at the end of the day. Students whose parents are using the car circle should proceed outside to the parent line, near the bus lines, to wait and watch for their parents. Parents should drop off and pick up their children at the Parent Car Circle near the playground, following the signs that are in the parking lot. Please form a line between parent/visitor parking spaces (as shown on the attached plan) and do not let your child(ren) out or in your vehicle until you are near the playground area. When students are dropped off and picked up in this area, they are not to cross any part of the parking lot where there are vehicles in order to have the safest, most direct path to and from the school entrance. To be courteous to others, please pull forward as much as possible, allowing for the maximum number of students to exit or enter vehicles. Parking lot monitors (staff) will be stationed throughout the parking lot to assist traffic and to ensure safety for all. When picking up your child from an after-school program, please use the visitor parking areas and refrain from parking/waiting in the car circle drop off area or in front of the bus lanes. Please note: If you have a younger child(ren) and/or prefer to watch your child(ren) enter the building safely, we recommend that you park in the parent/visitor spaces on the east side to either walk in with your child(ren) or watch from the safety of a parking space. Please be aware of school buses and other vehicles as we are trying to keep a safe and clear circulation path for all vehicles in the parking lot. For the safety of our students, under no circumstances should anyone drive through the designated bus lane at any time of day. Student drop-off/pickup should NOT occur in the center parking lane between the employee parking spaces, in front of the crosswalk, the bus lane, or in front of Dollar Tree. Please instruct your child(ren) to not run between vehicles or to play in the parking lot. It is important for everyone to take extra caution and care since we share our parking lot with two retail stores. 51 52 PROMOTION POLICY AND GRADES Letter grades are given to reflect actual achievement in the academic areas. A - Excellent (90-100%) B - Above Average (80-89%) C - Average (70-79%) D - Below Average (60-69%) F - Unsatisfactory (Below 60%) Honor Roll The honor roll criteria are: Principal’s Honor Roll First Honor Roll All A’s A’s and B’s To be on the honor roll, students may not have a C, D or an F. Kindergartners, 1 st and 2nd graders do not participate in honor roll. Art, Music, P.E., and Spanish grades are not included in the determination of Honor Roll for grades 3 and 4. RECESS Students are expected to come to school prepared to go outside for recess each day. Because of the structured environment during class time, it is important for SRA students to take breaks outside to get fresh air and exercise. Therefore, students must come to school each day dressed appropriately to be outside in the weather. During the colder times of year, students must bring a warm coat, hat, gloves and boots to school each day in case the weather warrants the use of these items. The school cannot provide these items on a daily basis. Students WILL NOT be allowed to stay inside the building during recess due to illness, unless a doctor’s note is provided stating the need for this. SRA has a weather station to monitor current playground conditions. Administrative staff will utilize the Child Care Weather Watch Chart in Section V of this handbook as a guideline to determine whether or not to hold indoor recess during exceptionally cold, wet or windy weather conditions. Please be assured that decisions regarding student safety are taken very seriously at SRA. Thoughtful and prudent decisions will be made about sending students out in adverse weather. Students are always under close supervision when on the playground, and changes in weather will be closely monitored to keep our students safe. RETENTION POLICY Guidelines for Student Retention Moving automatically from one grade to the next is not always the best thing for a child. The Core Knowledge curriculum used by SRA builds a student’s knowledge grade-by-grade. Children need a firm foundation, especially in reading and math, to progress academically. Therefore, if a 53 student needs additional time to gain solid skills, it is better for that student to repeat a gradelevel curriculum (“retention”) than to move on to more challenging material for which he or she is unprepared. Our goal is to ensure that each student masters the skills and knowledge needed to succeed academically. Retention is a choice that is made through consultation between parents, teachers, and principal. The principal shall make the final decision. Grade Level Retention Considerations Retention of students is an option for students at any grade level who, after intensive interventions, are performing below benchmark after a quarterly reporting period. Retention may be considered at any time of the school year. No more than two years in a grade will be permitted. The final decision about grade promotion or retention will be made by the school principal after consultation with the parents. Retention becomes an option when the following factors have been considered and documented: Student performing significantly below grade level in content areas Chronological age of student Attendance record/truancy Below Grade Level Performance In K-2, the emphasis is on establishing essential skills in reading and math. Retention will be considered for: Kindergarten students who receive an N or U in five or more Math oral tests, in Oral Phonograms (1-45), or Recognizing Letters 1st – 2nd grade students who receive a D or F in two out of three content areas (reading, spelling, math). For older students, academic success depends on a firm foundation in key content areas before moving on to more challenging material. Retention will be considered for: 3rd – 4th grade students who receive a D or F in two out of five content areas (reading, language/spelling, math, social studies or science) 5th – 9th grade students who receive a D or F in two out of four content areas (language arts, math, science, social studies). Intervention Teachers, parents, and principal will work with struggling students at the earliest signs of academic difficulty to help them improve their work. Educational intervention to help students must occur before retention is considered. Parents will be notified of the recommendation for intervention. Interventions may include but are not limited to the following: in-class and/or pullout interventions, after-school tutoring, enrolling in Academic Prep, moving to a lower math level, and starting an IRP (Individual Reading Plan). Documentation of the intervention and the effect on achievement is required. After 3-4 interventions have been tried by teachers in the regular classroom, a student who is still struggling and is considered a candidate for retention will be referred to SRA’s SBIT (Student Based Intervention Team). NOTE: Retention of students with an IEP or ELL plan will be determined by the Special Education team and parents. 54 SCHOOL PICTURES Individual student pictures are taken in the fall and group class pictures are taken in the spring of each school year. Uniforms are required for the spring class picture. Purchase of pictures is voluntary. Information about the packet options available and cost of the pictures is sent home with students. SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS POLICY Student publications must uphold SRA’s vision, mission, philosophy, and board policies. The purpose of such publications is to showcase student work and achievements. Student publications are a way for students to learn and practice responsible writing, journalism, and design under the guidance of SRA’s staff. All content must receive final approval from the principal. SECURITY In order to ensure the safety of students and staff, all exterior doors will remain locked except during student arrival and dismissal. Visitors to the building during school hours will be allowed admittance via security camera/intercom system. STUDENT PLANNERS Organizational skills are so important to lifelong success that we have made them part of our curriculum. To help students manage their assignments, we require each 2 nd – 9th grade student to use a planner. Planners will need to be purchased before the beginning of the school year for a fee of $5 per planner. Students are to enter assignments daily. The student planners should go home every night, and will provide parents with a convenient method to monitor their child’s work and work-study skills. We ask that parents sign or initial the planner each night to indicate that their child has completed his/her homework assignment(s). Students in grades 5-9 are required to have a parent sign their planner nightly. Failure to do so will result in the student receiving a discipline signature. SUSPENSION & EXPULSION SRA follows the suspension and expulsion proceedings set forth in Wyoming Statutes §§ 21-4-305 and 21-4-306 except that SRA’s proceedings are administered by the SRA principal and Board of Directors. In the event that a student is suspended or expelled by the School District, SRA will treat that student the same as if they were suspended or expelled from SRA. 55 TECHNOLOGY CONDITIONS, RULES AND ACCEPTABLE USE SRA requires the strict supervision of any student using the internet. No student will be allowed to randomly use (“surf”) the internet. Students may not use the internet without a teacher or other staff member present. Students will not be given access to computers or the internet until a signed permission slip is returned to SRA. A copy of ACSD#1 acceptable use policy follows, which describes what responsible users may or may not do. Please review this policy with your child(ren). If a student is found to be in violation of this policy, they may, at the principal’s discretion, serve such consequences as loss of the use of the computers at school or suspension. (Excerpt From ACSD#1 Policy) Technology refers to, but is not limited to, the use of computers, networks, the internet, or any other type of electronic equipment used to enhance the learning of students. Proper and Ethical Use: With technology as a learning tool, students and staff must understand and practice proper and ethical use. All students and staff must receive information and/or inservice training regarding procedures, ethics, and security relating to the use of school computers and the internet before being allowed to use the internet or intranet (internal network). Conditions and Rules for Use 1. Acceptable Use: a. The purpose of the internet is to facilitate communications in support of research and education, by providing access to unique resources and an opportunity for collaborative work. To remain eligible as a user, usage must be in support of and consistent with the educational objectives. The internet, intranet, and school computers are to be used for schoolwork for students or for work-related activities for employees. Game playing that is not of instructional means or directed by a teacher will be prohibited for students and is especially prohibited for employees. b. Transmission of any material, over the internet or intranet, in violation of any United States or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material, threatening or obscene materials, or material protected by trade secret. c. ACSD#1 forbids use of the District’s intranet, internet services or computers for any commercial or quasi-commercial activities such as raffles, football pools, or any other moneymaking activities. Use for product advertising or political lobbying is also prohibited. d. Student access to chat rooms is prohibited, unless directed by a teacher. Staff access to chat rooms must be work-related. e. Computers, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA), or other technological devices that are used must be owned/leased by the school or school district unless approved and registered with the District Technology Department before being connected to school resources (i.e. printers, intranet/internet). 2. Privilege: Access to the internet via District infrastructure and the use of technology is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use of these privileges, including violation of any of these conditions and rules, may result in cancellation of the privilege. SRA has the authority to determine 56 appropriate use and may deny, revoke, suspend or close any user account or access at any time based upon inappropriate use or any other good or just cause. 3. Monitoring: SRA will regularly review and monitor any material on user accounts, hard drives, and networks. 4. Security: a. To ensure system security, users must never allow others to use their password without expressed permission. b. A security problem on the intranet/internet must be reported to the SRA Operations Manager and not demonstrated to other users. c. Attempting to log onto computers, servers on the intranet/internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. d. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to technology devices and services. 5. Vandalism and Harassment: a. Vandalism and harassment will result in cancellation of user privileges. 1. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm, modify, or destroy data or equipment of another user. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creating of computer viruses, and modifying of staff/student projects. 2. Harassment is defined as persistent annoyance of another user, the interference with another user’s work, or making threats or inappropriate comments via the internet or intranet. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, the sending of unwanted mail. 6. Procedures for Use: a. Student users must always get permission from their instructors before using the network or accessing any specific file or application. b. All student users whose parent(s)/guardian(s) have not signed and returned an optout form for internet use will be allowed access to the internet and must comply with all rules, policies, and procedures that pertain to the District acceptable use policy. c. Student use of computers must be supervised at all times by staff that has completed the Internet Driver’s License (IDL) course. d. Staff members must complete the IDL course before being granted access to the internet and District email. e. All users are required to abide by proper Network/internet Etiquette “Netiquette” at all times. 7. Controversial Material: Users may encounter material that is controversial which users, parents, teachers, or administrators may consider inappropriate or offensive. However, on a global network, it is impossible to completely control the content of data. ACSD#1 maintains a “firewall” to filter inappropriate material from being accessed and reserves the right to restrict access to other internet material not currently being restricted. 8. No Warranties: 57 ACSD#1 makes no warranties of any kinds, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. ACSD#1 will not be responsible for any damages a user suffers. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, missed deliveries, or service interruptions caused by ACSD#1’s negligence or by the user’s errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the internet is at the user’s own risk. ACSD#1 will not be responsible for the accuracy, quality, and appropriateness of the information obtained. 9. Penalties for Improper Use: a. Any user violating these rules, applicable state and federal laws, and/or posted classroom and district rules is subject to loss of computer, intranet/internet privileges, and any other appropriate disciplinary actions. The user may also be subject to criminal prosecution. b. Penalties for improper student use are as follows: 1. First Offense: Loss of access to computers for one week and conference with parent, teacher, student, and Administrator. 2. Second Offense: Loss of access to computers for remainder of semester or four months, whichever is longer and out-of-school suspension for two days and conference with parent, teacher, student, and Administrator. 3. Third Offense: Loss of access to computers for remainder of the school year or six months, whichever is longer and out-of-school suspension for up to ten days with possible recommendation for expulsion 4. Breaking of any state or federal law will automatically be punished as a third offense. Initial offenses that are deemed serious may be punished as a second or third offense. 10. Software Licenses: Licensing documentation is required and must be on file for all installed software. Network/Internet Etiquette “Netiquette” 1. Be polite. Do not get abusive in your messages to others. 2. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities, or any other inappropriate language. Do not engage in activities that are prohibited under state or federal law. 3. Do not reveal personal addresses or phone numbers of students or colleagues. Use “bcc” to protect recipients’ privacy. 4. Note that electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system do have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities and may result in loss of user privileges and possibly criminal prosecution. 5. Do not use the network in such a way that you are likely to disrupt the use of the network by others. 6. Assume that all communications and information accessible via the network is private property. 7. Respect others’ right to freedom from harassment or intimidation. Do not send abusive or unwanted materials to others. Do not cause the work of others to be disrupted by your actions. 8. Respect copyrighted and other intellectual property rights. Copying files or passwords belonging to others or to ACSD#1 may constitute plagiarism or theft. Software licensed by 58 ACSD#1 or merely used on the equipment must be used in accordance with that license agreement. 9. Always identify yourself clearly and accurately in electronic communications. Anonymous or pseudonymous written communications, which appear to dissociate you from responsibility for your actions, are almost always inappropriate. Concealing or misrepresenting your name or affiliation to mask irresponsibility or offensive behavior is a serious abuse. Using identifiers of other individuals as your own constitutes fraud. 10. Abide by the security restrictions on the computer systems to which you have access. Distributing your name and password to others or otherwise attempting to evade, disable, or “crack” the password or other security provisions threatens the work of others and is therefore grounds for immediate suspension of your access privileges. Information residing on institutionally maintained systems, including, but not limited to, student, financial, and personnel records, is made available to users on an individual basis only to such extent as explicitly authorized by the department which has custodial responsibility for that data. 11. Use resources efficiently. Accept limitations or restrictions on computing resources, such as storage space, time limits, or amount of resources consumed, when asked to do so by the manager of facilities. Such restrictions are designed to ensure fair access for all users. 12. Recognize realistic limitation to privacy, which can be provided in these electronic communications. You have a right to expect the contents of what you write or otherwise create, store, and send to be seen only by those to whom you intend or give permission; however, the security of electronic files on shared systems and networks is approximately that of paper documents in an unsealed envelope: generally respected, but breachable by someone determined to do so. TOBACCO-, DRUG-, AND ALCOHOL-FREE CAMPUS SRA is tobacco-, drug-, and alcohol-free. The use and/or possession of tobacco products by students is prohibited in buildings, vehicles, or on property owned and operated by the school. The use of tobacco products by school employees, patrons and other non-students in buildings, vehicles or on the property owned by or operated by the school is also prohibited at all times. TOYS, MAKE-UP, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AT SCHOOL Students are not allowed to bring toys (balls, Frisbees, Legos, stuffed toys, etc.), make-up, iPods, MP3 players, Gameboys, PDA’s, CD players, etc. to school. Such items found at school will be kept in the principal’s office for safe-keeping. These items may be returned to the student’s parents upon request. Cell phones and other electronic devices that are brought to school must be kept turned off and in the student’s backpack or locker. TRANSPORTATION If you drive children to school, please be aware of traffic patterns, and be cautious in the parking lot. Always drop your child off and pick them up at the designated area. Please watch carefully 59 for others in the parking lot when you pick up or deliver your child. Children should get in the car on the passenger side of the vehicle. Walking, Bicycles, Roller Blades, Skateboards, Scooters Because of SRA’s location in a high-traffic, high-speed area off Grand Avenue, SRA strongly discourages students from roller-blading or riding bicycles, scooters, or skateboards to school. Students not driven or bused to SRA are requested to cross at Grand Avenue to the north side at 30th Street, or at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Boulder Drive at the traffic signals, and proceed east to SRA along the sidewalk. If parents choose to permit their child(ren) to ride their bike(s) or walk to school, parents need to instruct their child(ren) as to the safety issues associated with crossing streets, especially those with no crosswalks and traffic signals. Parents should also encourage their child(ren) to wear helmets and protective gear when riding. If children are permitted to ride their bicycles or walk to school, then their parents will assume the risk associated with the existing traffic conditions and the responsibility for the security of bicycles and equipment. Parents must also submit written notification giving their student permission to walk and/or ride to and from SRA. This release letter is to be kept in the student’s file. Busing Albany County School District #1 offers SRA bus transportation at several local street-corner stops. At the beginning of each academic year the transportation department reviews the busing schedule and routes; new schedules will be distributed as soon as they are available. Students are expected to wait in an orderly manner while waiting for buses, and to respond to the directions of the bus driver while riding the bus. Discipline of students on the bus is handled by bus drivers, and misbehavior will be reported to the transportation supervisor, who may notify SRA directly. Students who do not behave appropriately on the bus may be restricted from participating in the bus transportation service. If a parent has a concern about a bus incident or behavior, please discuss the issue with the bus driver and bus garage personnel. If the problem continues, then the parent may contact the principal. Students may ride on their assigned bus only. If a student wishes to ride to another student’s house on a bus other than their assigned bus, prior permission from ACSD#1 is required, and the SRA Front Office must be notified by a parent or guardian. Also, students who are not signed up for busing may not ride school buses unless prior permission is obtained. Parents interested in busing should indicate such on the online InfoSnap registration form. Parents are responsible for notifying the bus garage of any change of address or alteration in busing needs. Parents of students enrolling during the school year must contact the bus garage for transportation information. 60 UNIFORM CODE When the parents first formed SRA, it was decided that a uniform code would help establish a desirable learning environment. Research (e.g., Wendell Anderson (2002) School Dress Codes and Uniform Policies; http://eric.uoregon.edu/publications/policy_reports/dress_codes/intro.html) indicates that a uniform code minimizes peer pressure, improves the appearance of the student body, and reinforces an academic atmosphere. It is expected that the students of SRA shall maintain their person and uniforms in a modest, clean, and orderly manner compliant with the school uniform code. Final decisions regarding satisfaction of uniform code rests with the principal. This Uniform Code is subject to change as needed. Depending on how much laundry you are inclined to do, we suggest the following: 2-4 French Toast bottoms 3-4 French Toast tops plus at least 1 French Toast sweater or school logo sweatshirt. Uniform Code Requirements Lower school (K-4) students may not wear upper school (5-9) school clothes Hair color must be natural colors and kept out of face and under control Haircuts should be modest and not draw attention No visible body piercings (pierced ears are okay) or tattoos No baggy or tight fitting clothes No hats or head coverings may be worn indoors, except with a religious exemption in writing Hair accessories, including headbands, should be conservative and not draw unnecessary attention Shoes must be closed-toe and have back straps so that they do not fly off the foot. No sandals, flip-flops, slippers, Wheelies, mechanical, or light-up shoes will be permitted. Socks, tights, or leggings are required, and should be in the following neutral colors: navy, white, black, burgundy, forest green, khaki, or gray Socks, tights, or leggings should be mono-chromatic; no multi-colored stripes, polka dots, or other patterns If leggings or tights are worn, they must be under school-approved uniform bottoms Any combination of top and bottom is fine Shirts must be tucked in at all times, not just in the classroom. Girls blouses must be long enough to tuck in Collared uniform shirt must be worn under school logo sweatshirts Bottom hem of skirts or shorts must be at least two inches past the fingers when hands are at your side If undershirts are worn, they must be white and have shorter sleeves than the shirt on top (no long-sleeved colored shirts hanging out of short-sleeved school shirts) Belts must be worn if belt loops are present, except for Kindergartners Belts should be conservative in nature, and should be in the following neutral colors: navy, black, brown, burgundy, or khaki Belt buckles should be small and not draw attention Clothing must be kept clean and in good repair. No torn or ripped clothing will be allowed 61 Backpacks and jackets should have minimal logos and icons or attachments Small, conservative purses are permitted for middle school girls (5th – 9th only) Make-up, if used, should be applied modestly at home (no make-up is allowed at school) Please put your name or initials on sweaters and sweatshirts Please note that students are required to wear French Toast clothing conforming to the SRA Uniform Code. Citations will be issued for uniform code violations. Citations must be signed by parents, and returned the next day. After receiving three citations, in a year, parents will receive a phone call from the student, and be asked to remedy the uniform code violation immediately. In some cases, this may require parents to bring an article of clothing to your child at school within one hour. Final decisions regarding satisfaction of uniform code rests with the principal. Uniform Code Enforcement: For serious violations of the uniform code (attire which is totally unacceptable), parents will be required to remedy the uniform code violation immediately. For minor violations of the uniform code, a point will be issued for each violation with the following consequence: 1st-2nd Offense: A Uniform Code Citation will be issued for each offense. 3rd Offense: A discipline point will be issued resulting in a phone call to the parent from the principal. A conference with the principal, parent, and student will be held. 4th Offense: Middle schoolers will receive signatures for minor uniform code violations. Where to Purchase Uniforms French Toast: This is an online company and uses the same manufacturer as Bugle Boy Official School Wear and Lee School Wear, under a different label. The website is www.frenchtoast.com; when you see the home page, you need to click on “Find your School” in the top left hand section, and then type in Snowy Range Academy; our school code is qs47ej5. When our name and address come up, click on Snowy Range Academy and you will see the page with the uniform code. Vendors may be added or changed from time to time. Uniform Code Fund and Resale of Uniforms SRA is committed to enabling all students to participate in the uniform code without financial hardship to their families. Families that need financial assistance to purchase school uniforms must qualify for free or reduced lunch. Free and reduced lunch applications are available in the SRA Front Office or through ACSD#1. Gently worn uniform items are available at the beginning of the school year, and at other points throughout the year, at Uniform Exchange events. You will still need to have the uniform code list on the following page in order to choose your clothing, since French Toast has had problems keeping our uniform code requirements correct on their website, and is not liable for incorrect information. Our school code (that tells French Toast where to send the fundraising 5% from your order) is qs47ej5. 62 Snowy Range Academy Uniform Code PURCHASE LIST (please see “requirements” for additional information) SRA SCHOOL CODE: qs47ej5 GIRLS UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS ALL GIRLS DRESSES SKIRTS Item V-Neck Pleated Jumper Pleated Skirt Long Skirt with Back Panel Color Navy, Khaki, Black, Burgundy, Burgundy Plaid Navy, Khaki, Black, Burgundy, Burgundy Plaid Navy, Khaki, Black Long Skirt -Discontinued SKORTS PANTS SHORTS Navy Khaki Navy, Khaki, Burgundy, Black, Green, 2 Tab Scooter Burgundy Plaid 3 Tab Skort – Navy, Khaki, Discontinued Burgundy Kick Pleat Scooter Navy, Khaki Adjustable Waist Pleated Navy, Khaki, Pants Black Pleated Front Pants – Discontinued Navy, Khaki Navy Khaki, Double Knee Pants Black Navy Khaki, Adjustable Waist Pants Black Flat Front All Season PantsNavy Khaki, Discontinued Black Stretch Twill CaprisNavy Khaki, Discontinued Black Navy, Khaki, Bermuda Shorts Black Pleated Front Shorts – Discontinued Navy, Khaki 63 Number 1046, 1047 1066, 1065 1373 1270 Comments Not appropriate for gym days, unless worn with leggings. Not appropriate for gym days, unless worn with leggings. Not appropriate for gym days Not appropriate for gym days. (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) 1302, 1397 1070 1286 (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) 1490, 1522 1005 (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) 1004 1315 1273 1342 (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) 1303 1062 (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) SHIRTS Pique Polo (LS or SS) Interlock Knit Polo (LS or SS) Interlock Polo with Picot Trim Collar (LS or SS) SS and LS Knit Polo with Picot Trim Collar – Discontinued Long Sleeve Turtleneck Undershirts SWEATERS Boyfriend Duster Thigh Length Sweater – Discontinued Anti-Pill Crew Neck Cardigan Sweater Jersey Knit Crewneck Cardigan -Discontinued V-Neck Long Sleeve Pull Over Sweater- MISC Navy, Burgundy, Green, White 1009, 1012 White, Navy 1007, 1010 White, Navy 1467, 1466 White White, Navy WHITE Navy 1056, 1057 1477 Navy Navy, Green, Burgundy, Black Navy, Green, Burgundy 1271 1027, 1072 Navy 1028 V-Neck Sweater Vest SRA Embroidered Sweatshirts, Fleece Vests & Hoodies Navy, Burgundy 1029 Tights/leggings Shoes (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) 1371 Discontinued Socks (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) Any Source If worn, these must be white and not exceed sleeve length of school shirt. Any Source. (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) (Green discontinued, but still OK to wear.) Sold at beginning of each year Navy, Forest Green, Burgundy, Black, White, Khaki Navy, Forest Green, Burgundy, Black, White, Khaki, Gray Any approved closed toe 64 2216, 2213 2209, 2228 Any Source. NO capri-length tights or leggings. Any Source. Must be non-marking on gym days Belts (1st Grade & up) Jewelry Navy, Black, Brown, Burgundy, Khaki Small, modest pieces 24026, 24176 Belts must be plain, solid color. No large buckles. Can be leather or webbed. Any source. MS GIRLS MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS GRADES 5th - 9th ONLY (Additional Items) Oxford Blouse with White, Light (Light blue discontinued, SHIRTS Darts (LS or SS) Blue 1377, 1378 but still OK to wear.) Split Sleeve Blouse – (Discontinued but still OK Discontinued White 1280 to wear.) Twill Tab Shorts – (Discontinued but still OK SHORTS Discontinued Navy, Khaki 1263 to wear.) Dockers Brand Pants; NO WIDE/FLARE LEG OR Metro Style: Regular and Navy, Khaki, LOW RISE WAIST. Any PANTS Straight Leg Fits Black source. Navy, Khaki, DRESSES Kick Pleat Skirt Black 1268 Blue, Green, Burgundy, 100% Cotton Sweater Burgundy LE#22301- Land's End (Discontinued SWEATERS Vest Argyle 55Y9 but still OK to wear.) Navy, Green Burgundy, Black, 10744, MISC Cross Tie Burgundy Plaid 10754 ALL BOYS PANTS BOYS UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS Item Color Number Flat Front All Season Pants- Discontinued Navy 1396 Navy, Khaki, Double Knee Pants Black 1004 Adjustable, Waist Pleated Double-Knee Navy, Khaki, Pants Black 1432, 1520 Flat Front Adjustable Waist Double-Knee Navy, Khaki, 1319, 1519, Pants Black 1524 Pleated Front, Double Knee Pants – Navy, Khaki 1005 65 Comments (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) Discontinued Adjustable Waist Pants – Discontinued Navy, Khaki 1310 Navy, Khaki Navy, Khaki, Black Navy, Khaki, Black Navy, Burgundy Green, White 1024 Pleated Front ShortsSHORTS Discontinued Pleated Adjustable Waist Shorts Flat Front Adjustable Waist Shorts SHIRTS Pique Polo (LS or SS) Interlock Knit Polo (LS or SS) Long Sleeve Turtleneck White, Navy White, Navy WHITE Navy, Green, Anti-Pill V-Neck Cardigan Burgundy, SWEATERS Sweater Black Jersey Knit V-Neck Navy, Green, Cardigan -Discontinued Burgundy V-Neck Long Sleeve Pull Over SweaterDiscontinued Navy Navy, Burgundy V-Neck Sweater Vest , Black SRA Embroidered Sweatshirts, Fleece Vests & Hoodies Navy, Forest Green, Burgundy, Black, White, MISC Socks Khaki Any approved Shoes closed toe style Navy, Black, Brown, Burgundy, Belts (1st Grade & up) Khaki 1430 1431 1009, 1012 1007, 1010 Any Source If worn, these must be white and not exceed sleeve length of school shirt. Any Source. Undershirts 66 (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) 1370 1027 1028 1029 (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) (Green discontinued, but still OK to wear.) Sold at beginning of each year 2214, 2211 24026, 24176 Any Source Must be non-marking sole on gym days Belts must be plain, solid color. No large buckles. Can be leather or webbed. Any source. MS BOYS SHIRTS PANTS SHORTS MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS GRADES 5th - 9th ONLY (Additional Items) Oxford Shirts (LS or SS) Dockers Brand Pants; Signature Collection: Relaxed, Classic or Straight Leg Fits Side Pocket Shorts Cargo Shorts- Discontinued MISC Straight Tie (Adjustable) 100% Cotton Sweater SWEATERS Vest White, Light Blue Navy, Khaki, Black Navy, Khaki Navy, Khaki Navy, Green, Burgundy, Black, Burgundy Plaid Blue, Green, Burgundy, Burgundy Argyle 1017, 1020 Any Source 1458 1201 (Discontinued but still OK to wear.) 10312, 10313, 10302 LE#2230155Y9 Land's End (Discontinued but still OK to wear) MIDDLE SCHOOL- GRADE 6-9 ONLY- PHYSICAL EDUCATION DRESS CODE Navy, Forest Green, Burgundy, NO tank tops: shirts must Plain T-shirt or any SRA Black, White, be long enough to cover SHIRTS Field Day T-shirt Khaki waistline. Any Source Bottom hem of shorts Navy, Forest must be at least 2 Green, inches past the fingers Burgundy, when hands are at your Black, White, SHORTS side. Khaki Any Source Navy, Forest NO cutoffs or jeans. Exercise or sweat pants. Green, Pants should be as plain Capri length or full Burgundy, as possible with no large length sport pants are Black, White, graphics or logos. Any PANTS allowed. Khaki Source Non-marking, rubbersoled sneakers or other athletic shoes. Must be SHOES closed toe. Any Source 67 VISITS TO SCHOOL We encourage parents to come to school frequently to visit their child’s classroom and to take an active part in the education of their child. During the actual hours school is in session, parents and all other visitors to the school are required to stop by the SRA Front Office to pick up a visitor’s badge and sign in before proceeding into other areas of the building. If visiting a classroom or volunteering, please do not bring non-school age children. During your visit, you are asked to turn off your cell phones. Also, please sign out before leaving the building. Former students may visit during the lunch period only with pre-arrangement. They are allowed to attend all school functions open to the public. They are not to attend school field trips, extracurricular activities, clubs, or the end-of-the-year field day. WEAPONS AT SCHOOL Possession and/or use of any dangerous or deadly weapon in the school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle, or at any school-sponsored activity is strictly prohibited. A student shall not possess, handle, transmit, or conceal any object that could be used as a weapon, disrupt the educational process, or cause harm to another person. This weapon definition is not limited to the obvious, but includes any item that can be construed as a weapon, such as guns of any type, water and toy guns, ninja stars, screwdrivers, ball bats, chains, slingshots, or knives and pocketknives. The possession or use of any such weapon shall require that proceedings for the suspension with the possibility of expulsion of the student involved shall be initiated immediately by the principal. SECTION IV: SCHOOL GOVERNANCE As a charter school, SRA is governed differently from a neighborhood school. ACSD#1 School Board provides oversight of SRA operation, in accordance with its charter. However, policies, programs, and daily school operation are shared between the principal and the Board of Directors. A parent who has concerns about any matter involving a student should speak to the staff member involved. If unable to come to a resolution with that staff member, the parent should contact the principal. If necessary, a meeting will be held. Please refer to the SRA Grievance Policy in this handbook for more information about sharing your concerns. BOARD OF DIRECTORS The primary responsibility of the Board of Directors (BOD) is to oversee and establish the educational and operational policies of the school. Implementation of the policies and procedures, and daily operations, is the responsibility of SRA’s principal and operations manager. The BOD meets once a month to discuss school operations and hear reports. It is during these meetings that they examine operations, establish new policies, and review and change existing policies as needed. Requests, concerns, and information items may be offered by parents, students and teachers for public discussion during audience communication at BOD meetings. 68 SRA’s BOD consists of five parent representatives (elected at the spring Annual Meeting), two community members, a board member emeritus, the operations manager, the principal and an employee representative (elected by the staff). The principal, board member emeritus, operations manager, and the employee representative are non-voting members. Board meetings are held at SRA on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. The meetings are open to the public, and your attendance is welcome. Meeting agendas are posted 24 hours in advance on the school website and lobby. For issues involving personnel, contracts, or other sensitive matters, the Board may adjourn to Executive Session following the regularly scheduled Board Meeting agenda. Documents regarding the governance of the school (Charter, contract, by-laws, and BOD policies) are available on the school website for parents to read. ANNUAL MEETING AND ELECTIONS The SRA Annual Meeting is held in the spring. This is the most important meeting of the school year and parents are strongly encouraged to attend. At this time, elections will be held to fill open spaces on the Board. A Nominating Committee appointed by the Board will select nominees for Board positions. If you are interested in running for the Board, please contact a Board member. The Annual Meeting is also an opportunity for parents to discuss policy issues and school operations. ELECTIONS TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Elections for expiring positions for the BOD shall be held during the Annual Meeting of the Members of the Academy. Elections shall be conducted as follows: 1. For voting purposes, each family of a student or students of the Charter School shall be entitled to one vote 2. Member families may vote for as many candidates as there are vacancies to be filled 3. Elections shall be by secret ballot 4. Elections shall be determined by simple majority of votes cast Certification of election results shall be presented to the BOD at the conclusion of the election at the Annual Meeting. PARENT READING LIST The world of educational philosophy is a complex one. We have found these books, which emphasize the traditional or classical approach to education, to be useful in understanding why SRA provides a needed option in public education for our community. Many of these titles are available for checkout from SRA, where there will be a shelf of useful reading for parents on education topics. Many local bookstores often carry these titles, or can order them for you. General educational approach E.D. Hirsch, Jr. The Schools We Need and Why We Don’t Have Them 69 Diane Ravitch Jeanne S. Chall Core Knowledge E.D. Hirsch, Jr. Left Behind: A Century of Failed School Reform The Academic Achievement Challenge What Your Kindergartner Needs to Know, to Know....and so, on, for each grade. What Your First-Grader Needs These books outline the subject matter your children will learn at SRA. Dictionary of Cultural Literacy Website: www.coreknowledge.org Spalding Language Arts Spalding, Romalda The Writing Road to Reading. are using at SRA. Website: www.spalding.org This book outlines the program your children SECTION V: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ASBESTOS FREE FACILITY ANNUAL ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION (Pursuant to the AHERA Rule, 40 C.F.R. 763.93(g)(4), and 763.99(a)(7) §§ 763.84(c), In compliance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA Rule), annually we are required to notify you that Cyntergy, the architect responsible for the construction of the Snowy Range Academy, accredited by the State of Wyoming, certified on September 28, 2004, that no asbestos-containing building material (ACBM) was used or specified in the construction documents related to the work regarding the renovation of the school building. An Asbestos Management Plan was developed for the Snowy Range Academy which includes: (1) certification of the architect responsible for the construction of the building that the school building is free of known ACBM; (2) the document appointing Margarita Rovani as the Asbestos Program Coordinator for the Snowy Range Academy, who is responsible for ensuring that the school adheres to all applicable requirements of the AHERA Rule; (3) a dated copy of this notification; (4) copies of training certificates of maintenance and custodial personnel receiving two hours of asbestos awareness training; and (5) a copy of the School’s Short-Term/Contractor Certification Regarding ACBM. A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan is available for your review in the administrative office of the Snowy Range Academy during regular office hours. The operations manager is the designated Asbestos Program Coordinator for the school. Please direct all inquiries regarding the Asbestos Management Plan to mrovani@acsd1.org or call 745-9930 extension 33. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral, once widely used in building materials for its thermal insulating properties and fire resistance. Intact, undisturbed asbestos-containing materials 70 generally do not pose a health risk. These materials may become hazardous and pose risk if they are damaged, are disturbed in some manner, or deteriorate over time and release asbestos fibers into the building air. THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are: (1) The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal [or appropriate school official] a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. (2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School Principal [or appropriate school official], clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. (3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit/personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the School has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using its own employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. [Optional] Upon request, the School discloses education records without consent to officials of 71 another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. [NOTE: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.] (4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5920 Sec. 99.36 What conditions apply to disclosure of information in health and safety emergencies? (a) An educational agency or institution may disclose personally identifiable information from an education record to appropriate parties in connection with an emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals. (b) Nothing in this Act or this part shall prevent an educational agency or institution from— (1) Including in the education records of a student appropriate information concerning disciplinary action taken against the student for conduct that posed a significant risk to the safety or well-being of that student, other students, or other members of the school community; (2) Disclosing appropriate information maintained under paragraph (b)(1) of this section to teachers and school officials within the agency or institution who the agency or institution has determined have legitimate educational interests in the behavior of the student; or (3) Disclosing appropriate information maintained under paragraph (b)(1) of this section to teachers and school officials in other schools who have been determined to have legitimate educational interests in the behavior of the student. (c) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section will be strictly construed. 72 THE CHILD CARE WEATHER WATCH CHART 73