Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR
Learning and Growing together on a trail of Success
705 Austin Avenue, Erie Colorado 80516 Phone: (720) 242-6225 Fax (720) 294 0573
www.aspenridgeprepschool.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Calendar ..............................................................................................................................3 About Our School and School Mission ................................................................................4 School Hours and Visitor/Volunteer Entry .........................................................................4 Before and After School Care .............................................................................................6 Attendance Policies and Procedures ..................................................................................6 Daily Drop Off, Dismissal and Procedures ..........................................................................12 Student Policies and Procedures ........................................................................................13 Code of Conduct and Behavior Expectations .....................................................................17 Student Illness and Medication ..........................................................................................21 Grading Periods and Homework .........................................................................................23 Student Lunches ..................................................................................................................24 Classroom Placement Procedures ......................................................................................25 Parental Code of Conduct ...................................................................................................25 Volunteer Opportunities at Aspen Ridge ............................................................................26
3
ASPEN RIDGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK
ABOUT OUR SCHOOL
The Founders of Aspen Ridge Preparatory School envisioned a community of students, teachers, parents and administrators collaborating to traverse a common, shared body of knowledge along the rigorous, content-rich Aspen Ridge Trailways thereby fostering a lifelong love of learning and discovery. Research-based curricula, ongoing assessment, ability grouping and Personal Education Plans are the tools for a successful journey to the summit. Aspen Ridge is a place where inquisitive students learn to think independently, participate in and understand an integrated world and develop personal character through individual strengths and interests. At Aspen Ridge, all travelers on this journey recognize scholarship, academic achievement and creativity while respecting each member as a valued individual of great potential and promise.
OUR MISSION
We are travelers on the Aspen Ridge Trailways. It is our mission to think independently, participate in our integrated world and achieve individual goals in order to gain knowledge and understanding. We will approach challenges with confidence and assist others in our community while learning and growing together on the trail of success.
SCHOOL HOURS AND VISITOR/VOLUNTEER ENTRY
School Hours
Class begins for grades K-6: 8:30 am*
Class begins for Preschool (AM): 8:45 am
Class ends Preschool (AM): 11:15am
Class ends Half Day Kinder (AM): 11:30am
Class begins Half Day Kinder (PM): 12:00pm
Class begins Preschool (PM): 12:00pm
Class ends Preschool (PM): 2:30pm
Class ends for Kindergarteners: 3:00 pm
Class ends for grades 1-6: 3:05 pm
*For safety and supervision purposes, students should not arrive at ARPS earlier than 8:15 AM unless they are enrolled in the Before School Program. Upon arrival students should go directly to their classroom.
4
Student Lunch Schedule
Full Day Kindergarten 10:50 – 11:15
2nd Grade 11:15 – 11:40
1st Grade 11:40 – 12:05
3rd Grade 12:05 – 12:30
4th, 5th & 6th Grade 12:30 – 12:55
Office Hours
The office is open from 7:30AM to 4:00PM.
Teacher Hours and Contact Information
Teacher hours are from 7:30AM to 3:30PM. Please be respectful of this time frame when planning appointments.
Every teacher and staff member is available to you by email. Teachers will supply you with the information you need to contact them during orientation and all school emails are listed on our website. Please feel free to write a note in the student folder, email or set up a conference to communicate with all staff members.
Teachers are in charge of students from 8:30AM until 3:05PM with the exception of planning periods. During this instruction time our teacher have a responsibility to provide students with their full attention. Please do not interrupt the teachers during this instruction time, particularly in the morning while students are coming in, during lunch and at dismissal. Teachers want to have time to thoroughly discuss the problems and concerns you have about your child. Scheduling a conference will ensure you have a teacher’s full attention and safeguard your privacy.
Visitors/Volunteers/LobbyGuard
Before entering the building, all visitors must sign in via the LobbyGuard kiosk by presenting a valid driver’s license to be scanned. Frequent volunteers will be issued a LobbyGuard frequent visitor card.
All visitors must have a designated purpose for entering the building. Any items forgotten by students (homework, water bottles, snack, lunch, jacket, etc.) will be delivered by the front office staff according to the student’s classroom schedule to minimize interruptions.
Volunteers are important to the success of ARPS. We are grateful that you are willing to spend some of your “spare” time helping us. Volunteer affidavits are required on file for each volunteer assisting in the classroom/school and for all chaperones. Each year, remember to
5
print, sign and notarize a volunteer affidavit to return to the main office. The affidavit is available on our website. All Volunteers must sign-in to LobbyGuard each time you are in the building.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Please make other arrangements for younger children when you are volunteering. Students not enrolled at ARPS may not be unsupervised while in the building and must be under constant supervision by their parent/guardian while on campus at all times.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE
Aspen Ridge has partnered with the Erie Community Center to offer a Before and After Care program on our campus. The program offers a weekly curriculum that includes: physical fitness, creativity and arts, science, student time (quiet time and reading), snacks, sports and games. The focus will be on fun, social skills and enrichment with time available for academic pursuits and homework.
Staff to Student Ratio: 1:12 (camp staffer to child), with a minimum of two (2) camp staffers on site at all times. (State licensing ratio is 1:15.)
The program is offered Monday-Friday on all school days. Before Care is offered 6:30am-8:15am and After Care is offered 3:00pm-6:00pm, and 1:05pm – 6:00pm on early release days. Please contact the Erie Community Center to register for the Before/After Care program at ARPS: 303-926-2550. For non-school days, a separate program will be offered at the Erie Community Center for a fee.
All payments for the Aspen Ridge Before and After Care program must be paid directly to the Erie Community Center. Pricing can be found directly on the Town Of Erie’s Recreation Brochure or visit their website at: http://www.erieco.gov/index.aspx?nid=911
ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
In order to be successful it is critical that students attend school regularly and on time. Poor attendance and excessive tardiness often impact student grades and impede progress.
*Aspen Ridge follows the attendance criteria set forth by the St. Vrain Valley School District.
Philosophy
One criteria of a student’s success in school is regular and punctual attendance. Frequent absences may lead to poor academic work, lack of social development and possible academic failure. Regular attendance is of utmost importance for school interest, social adjustment and scholastic achievement, particularly for closing the achievement gap. Continuity in the learning process and social adaptation is seriously disrupted by excessive absences. In most situations, the work missed cannot be made up adequately. Students who have good attendance generally achieve higher grades, enjoy school more and are more employable after leaving school. For at
6
least these reasons, the Board believes that a student must satisfy two basic requirements in order to earn full class credit:
(1) satisfy all academic requirements and
(2) exhibit good attendance habits as stated in this policy.
When developmentally appropriate it is the responsibility of the student to attend school. Ultimately, however, the responsibility to ensure that the student has good attendance rests with the parent/ guardian. According to state law, it is the obligation of every parent/guardian to ensure that every child under their care and supervision receives adequate education and training and, if of compulsory attendance age, attends school. Schools will inform the parents/guardians if a student’s education is being jeopardized by poor attendance.
Each year the Board establishes the school attendance policy by adopting a school calendar.
Attendance
Students are expected to enroll at the beginning of the school year, to attend regularly and to be prompt in arriving at school and at each class during the day.
Reporting Absences
We ask that parents notify the school office early on the day their child is absent. Please be sure to sign in your child in the office if arriving late. Absences may be reported to the front office via email ([email protected]) or phone (720-242-6225).
All parents desiring a vacation to be approved as an excused absence will need to seek prior written approval from the principal.
Tardiness
Tardiness is defined as the appearance of a student without proper excuse after the scheduled time that a class begins. Because of the disruptive nature of tardiness and the detrimental effect upon the rights of the non-tardy student to uninterrupted learning, penalties shall be imposed for excessive tardiness.
Teachers shall be responsible for addressing tardiness as a classroom management issue. Excessive tardiness may be referred to the administration for consideration as an attendance problem.
In an unavoidable situation, a student detained by another teacher or administrator shall not be considered tardy provided that the teacher or administrator gives the student a pass to enter their next class. Teachers shall honor passes presented in accordance with this policy.
7
Student Absences and Excuses
This attendance policy is designed to provide guidance and procedure for managing and improving student attendance. In addition, it is recognized that other important factors which impact school attendance include the positive relationships that exist between teachers and their students and the ongoing timely involvement of parents. It is school’s intention to encourage all students to have good attendance and to participate in school; however it may become necessary as a last resort to administer interventions which may include taking legal action when a student’s level of absence becomes chronic.
• Incentive programs shall recognize and reward those students with perfect attendance, exemplary attendance and improved attendance.
• Interventions for unexcused absences may include administrative conferences, detention and make-up time.
• Make-up work shall be provided for any class in which a student has an absence or is suspended unless otherwise determined by the Principal. The teacher will provide missed assignments after the student returns.
• In the case of both excused and unexcused absences, the principal or designee will make a reasonable number of attempts to contact parents/guardians in an effort to address a student’s attendance issues.
All students are expected to make up school work because of absenteeism.
• Students with excused absences will be granted a reasonable amount of time to complete make-up work, generally two days for each day absent.
• Time allowed for make-up work may not extend beyond the end of the grading period except by special permission of the principal or designee.
• Students with prearranged absences must make arrangements prior to the absence for completing make-up work.
• Parents/guardians may request a conference with the Principal and/or teacher to discuss a decision related to the attendance policy and these regulations. The conference must be requested within one week of notification.
The principal or designee will make reasonable efforts to work closely with parents/guardians to identify and resolve student attendance issues. Regardless of grade level, the following actions will be taken if a student’s excused or unexcused absences reach the levels identified.
Excused Absences
The building principal or their designee will grant excused absences with substantiated reason. The following will be considered:
• A student who is temporarily ill or injured or whose absence is approved by the administrator of the school of attendance on a prearranged basis. Prearranged absences
8
shall be approved for appointments or circumstances of a serious nature only which cannot be taken care of outside of school hours.
• A student who is absent for a prearranged extended period due to physical, mental or emotional disability.
• A student who is pursuing a work-study program under the supervision of the school.
• A student who is attending any school-sponsored activity or activities of an educational nature with advance approval by the administration.
The following may be considered an excused absence at the discretion of the principal or designee:
• Serious illness or death in the family.
• Family emergencies or hardship.
• Family vacations. (While discouraged, such excuses should be prearranged with the school administration. If a student has poor attendance or poor academic performance, a principal may deny an excused absence for vacation purposes.)
• Religious observances when requested by a parent or guardian.
• Absence required by a legal body or social agency (court, juvenile authorities, public health department or police).
• Military connected students whose parent or legal guardian has been called to duty, is on leave or has immediately returned from deployment.
The school may require suitable proof regarding the above exceptions, including written statements from a health care provider.
Principal Actions for Excused Absences
With repeated absences the principal will contact the parents to ensure the academic needs of the student are being met.
1) After 6 excused absences – a general letter of concern will be sent to the student’s parent/ guardian.
2) After 9 excused absences – a second letter will be sent indicating that when the student reaches 12 absences that he/she will no longer be excused without documentation from a health care provider.
3) On the 13th absence – the student and parent/guardian will be asked in writing to meet with the Principal to discuss pertinent issues and develop an educational plan including an attendance contract. This mailing will include a reference to the appropriate school policy and state law which will be discussed at the subsequent meeting.
4) In all cases, letters sent to parents/guardians will be addressed to the current address on file with the school.
9
Unexcused Absences
An unexcused absence is defined as an absence that is not covered by one of the foregoing exceptions. Students who are suspended or expelled shall be considered unexcused. Each unexcused absence shall be entered on the student’s record. The parents or guardians of the student receiving unexcused absences shall be notified orally or in writing by the Principal or Designee.
Parents/guardians shall be required to furnish an explanation for student absenteeism either in writing or orally. Absences not explained within two days after returning to school shall be recorded as unexcused absences unless unusual or extenuating circumstances exist as determined by the Principal.
In accordance with law, the School may impose academic penalties which relate directly to classes missed while unexcused. Students and parents/guardians may appeal to the Principal or designee for exceptions to this policy or the accompanying regulations provided that no exception shall be sustained if the student fails to abide by all requirements imposed as conditions for granting any such exception.
The minimum number of unexcused absences a student may incur before judicial proceedings are initiated to enforce compulsory attendance is four (4) days in one month or ten (10) days during any school year.
Principal Actions for Unexcused Absences
An unexcused day is equal to a whole school day or individual classes over several school days that cumulatively add up to one whole school day. In addition, 3 unexcused tardy occurrences will be considered a one-half day unexcused absence.
1) After 3 unexcused days – a general letter of concern will be sent to parents/guardians requesting a conference with school officials.
2) After 6 unexcused days – a second letter will be sent indicating that the student has violated board policy regarding the number of unexcused absence day allowed before judicial proceeding may be initiated and requiring a meeting with the parent/guardian.
3) After 10 unexcused days – a letter including a reference to the state compulsory attendance law and notification that the student’s attendance will be monitored for the next 10 days at which time a decision may be made which may include legal action.
4) In all cases, letters sent to parents/guardians will be addressed to the current address on file with the school.
Truancy
If a student is absent without a parent/guardian excuse or if the student leaves school or a class without permission of the teacher or administrator in charge, the student shall be considered
10
truant. A “habitual truant” shall be defined as a student of compulsory attendance age who has four (4) unexcused absences from school in any one month or ten (10) unexcused absences during any school year. Absences due to suspension or expulsion shall not be counted in the total of unexcused absences. When a student is declared habitually truant, the principal shall require a meeting between the student’s parent/guardian and appropriate school personnel to review and evaluate the reasons for the student being habitually truant.
A plan shall be developed for a student who is declared habitually truant with the goal of assisting the child to remain in school. When feasible, the child’s parent, guardian or legal custodian shall participate with school personnel during the development of the plan. Appropriate school personnel shall make all reasonable efforts to meet with the parent, guardian or legal custodian to review and evaluate the reasons for the child’s truancy.
Checking a Student In During the Day
We hope parents will make every effort to get their children to school on time so that they can get the maximum benefit from the school day. However, we know that occasionally a student must be checked in after the start of school. When students are more than 10 minutes late a parent or adult over 18 years of age must be present to sign them in. The sign-in book is located in the front office window. Parents are not permitted to walk students to class or to retrieve students from class. Office staff will escort any student to class who needs assistance.
Checking a Student Out During the Day
Parents needing to check students out early can do so in the front office. Students will not be allowed to leave campus with any adult not listed on the emergency card without consent from the parent. Parents are not permitted to pick up their student directly from class. The office staff will call students to the office for pick up.
Similarly, students may not ride or walk home with another student without written consent from the parent. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but we know you realize that care must be taken where student safety is concerned.
Dropping off Forgotten Items
Occasionally students forget items at home they will need during the school day. If you bring a forgotten item to school for your child, please drop it off in the main office and we will make sure your child receives it as soon as possible.
Transportation Changes
Please notify the office of any transportation changes for your student. It is very important that parents/guardians inform the necessary adults of these changes to ensure the safety of all students. The phone number is 720-242-6225.
11
DAILY DROP OFF, DISMISSAL AND PROCEDURES
Please stay in the designated crosswalks at all times when walking in our parking lot. Please refrain from phone calls so your full attention can be focused on keeping our students safe.
Morning Drop-off Procedures
Students may be dropped off at school in the staff supervised drop-off zone in front of the school starting at 8:15AM each day. Students should enter the building and go directly to their classroom upon arrival. Staff members are present to keep your children safe and facilitate traffic flow.
For the safety of all of our students, please do not drop your children off at school before 8:15 AM unless they are enrolled in the Before Care Program. Any student/s dropped off before 8:15 AM who are not supervised by an adult, 18 years or older, will be escorted to the Before Care Program and all applicable fees will be charged to the parents/guardians.
Daily Dismissal Procedures
Students are dismissed at 3:00PM (Kindergarten) or 3:05PM (Grades 1-6) and escorted to After Care or their grade-level designated location if they are car-riders, walkers or bike riders.
Students will not be allowed to leave campus with any adult not listed on the emergency card without consent from the parent. Similarly, students may not ride or walk home with another student without written consent from the parent. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but we know you realize that care must be taken where student safety is concerned.
The Drive Line cars are directed to the curb. Staff escort students to their cars and assist them in getting in. Parents can help by remaining in their cars and by observing the direction of the volunteer responsible for managing the traffic flow. We are committed to your students’ safety. The traffic pattern we use prevents students from loading where cars are moving or walking out into moving traffic.
No student may remain on campus after dismissal unless they are in After Care, participating in a club or other extracurricular activity or receiving extra help from a teacher. Under no circumstances will students be permitted to remain unsupervised on campus.
NOTE: To make sure we know the location of all students at all times and for their safety we will not release students directly to parents during the day. Please go to the main office to check your child out of school and we will page their teacher to send them to the office.
Car Riders
Car rider dismissal starts promptly at 3:00PM for Kindergarteners and 3:05 for grades 1 - 6. Cars will be directed to the curb for Drive Line. Students will be pre-called and waiting as each car group
12
pulls up. Staff stationed at the curb will hand deliver students to their cars and help them load.
NOTE: Parents can help by remaining in their cars and observing the direction of the volunteers responsible for managing traffic flow. We are committed to your students’ safety and the traffic pattern we use prevents students from loading where cars are moving or walking out into moving traffic.
Early Release Days
The 1st Wednesday of most months is designated as an Early Release Day for all Aspen Ridge Students. These early release days allow our faculty additional time for professional development training. Early Release days are the 1st Wednesday of most months: September 2nd, October 7th, November 4th, December 2nd, March 2nd, April 13th and May 4th. Students will be released at 1:05pm.
Before Winter Break, Half-day Kindergarteners and Preschoolers who normally attend in the morning will attend their typical morning class and those who typically attend in the afternoon will not attend: September 2nd, October 7th, November 4th and December 2nd. After Winter Break, Morning preschoolers will not attend and Afternoon preschoolers will attend in the typical morning class time, 8:45-11:15: March 2nd, April 13th and May 4th.
STUDENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
ARPS Uniform Code
Students are expected to be in compliance with the uniform while attending school. Parents will be notified if/when his/her student is out of compliance with the uniform policy. Approved clothing includes navy or khaki pants or skirts; navy, light blue, dark green, pale yellow or white collared shirts; and approved styles of dresses, jumpers or skirts in these colors or the approved hunter/classic navy plaid. See specific uniform policy located on our website at: www.aspenridgeprepschool.org.
In order to reward students for being in compliance with the uniform code and its standards, students will be eligible to participate in casual, “dress down days” throughout the year. The dress code for these casual days is also described in the uniform policy. The 2nd and 4th Friday of each month will be “Dress Down for a Dollar Days.” Students will be able to wear jeans to school for a small donation of $1. Please pay with cash or check to ARPS. Your child’s teacher will collect the donation and you may choose to pay for a month or the entire year at a time (suggested yearly amount is $20.00). Note: There are no refunds if paying in advance.
13
Student Internet Use Policy
Aspen Ridge Preparatory School offers students access to computers and the Internet to support the vision and mission of the school and to expand learning opportunities. In order to provide access to the tools and equipment essential to teaching and learning, it is important to outline the responsibilities of the school, teachers and students, as well as the rights of parents. Please refer to the school website under Board, then Board Policies to review the full Internet Use Policy. Students and parents are required to sign an acceptable use policy before accessing school networks and computers.
Electronic Devices and Cell Phones at School
Students are permitted to bring their cell phones to school, as long as they remain turned off and out of sight while on campus. If a student needs a phone while on campus, they may use the phone located in the main office. If a student has a phone out on campus it will be confiscated by a staff member and be available for return to a parent only. Cell phones are not permitted to be used on campus. Students may use a phone in the main office to make important calls.
Students at ARPS are not permitted to bring any electronic devices to school such as iPods, MP3 players, beepers/pagers, two-way radios, cd players, etc. without written permission from a teacher or administrator. Any non-permitted items out during the school day will be confiscated and returned only to a parent.
Student Fees
A student fee is standard for most charter schools, especially once they have grown and succeeded beyond the initial federal start-up grant, as we have.
The student fee will be $150 per student. This fee should be paid in full by August 31st, 2015. Families with multiple children enrolled will only pay for the first two children, setting the maximum per-family cost at $300.
The fee will be used for costs pertaining to curriculum, consumables, field trips and t-shirts. It will also allow students to have access to new Internet tools and assessments. Please view the student fee document on our website to see the itemized breakdown of the fees per grade. You will also find information about discounted rates for families who qualify.
Full Day Kindergarten Tuition Fee Policy
Kindergarten Tuition is due on the 1st of every month and is considered late on the 11th calendar day of every month. The first tuition payment is due August 19, 2015 and the last tuition payment is due May 1, 2016. ARPS will assess a $5 per day late fee on all outstanding accounts until tuition is paid in full. If tuition is not received by the 14th of the month, your child may no
14
longer be eligible for the Full Day Kindergarten Program at ARPS. Please send your tuition payment checks directly to the locked payment box outside the front office.
The monthly tuition rates are listed below and are based on a 9-month + 1-week school year. Reduced Lunch qualified students receive a $25 discount per month and Free Lunch qualified students receive a $50 discount per month. No discount is available if the fee is not paid within 30 days of the applicable due date.
• 2015-2016 Full Price Tuition = $340 a month ($85 in August)
• Reduced Lunch Tuition = $315 a month ($78.75 in August)
• Free Lunch Tuition = $290 a month ($72.50 in August)
Preschool Tuition Rates
Aspen Ridge offers preschool for 4 year old students. Our 4 year old classes meet Monday-Thursday, either in the morning from 8:45 to 11:15 or in the afternoon from 12:00-2:30 and is $310.00 per month. The monthly tuition rates are listed below and are based on a 9-month + 1-week school year. Reduced Lunch qualified students receive a $25 discount per month and Free Lunch qualified students receive a $50 discount per month. No discount is available if the fee is not paid within 30 days of the applicable due date.
• 2015-2016 Full Price Tuition = $310 a month ($77.50 in August)
• Reduced Lunch Tuition = $285 a month ($71.25 in August)
• Free Lunch Tuition = $260 a month ($65 in August)
Change of Address
Please inform the main office of any change in address, telephone number and/or emergency number. This will enable us to contact parents in a timely manner. In cases of joint custody, the primary contact parent listed is expected to share student/school information with the other parent. The parents should provide the school with a written request if both parents’ request mailings. If a restraining or other court order is in effect, it is the parent’s responsibility to provide the school’s administration with a copy of the order in a timely manner.
Lost/Damaged Textbooks/Library Books
If a student loses or damages a book during the year, he/she will have to pay the price of replacement for another book. Additionally, at the end of the year, any assigned textbooks will be examined. If they show more than normal “wear and tear,” students will be asked to pay an additional amount to cover the replacement costs. Report cards will not be issued and requests for records will not be fulfilled until fines are paid.
15
Lost and Found
Please help us by clearly labeling the student’s name on all items of personal clothing. Items found around the school will be placed in the lost and found area. Items not claimed will be donated periodically.
Clothing for Outdoor Activities
Children are outside before school and/or during recess on those days deemed to be outside days (temperature must be at or above 20 degrees Fahrenheit including the wind chill effect). Only those children having a doctor’s certificate will be permitted to stay in for any extended period of time.
School Administrative staff may make exceptions due to air quality and individual student health concerns. Please be sure that your child comes to school properly clothed for outside conditions. This includes ensuring your children have proper winter coats/boots/gloves/hats and also a change of indoor shoes for the classroom during the winter months.
Morning Snacks
After the reading program is over in the morning, students are allowed to bring a morning snack. It is not the responsibility of the teacher to ensure students have snacks and the school does not supply such snacks. Please be sure to bring a healthy morning snack for your child.
Birthdays, Parties and Treats
Aspen Ridge Preparatory School recognizes that birthdays are a special day for our students and families. We must also ensure that celebrations do not disrupt the learning process and promote healthy choices. Frequent birthday celebrations with cookies, cupcakes and other sweets are not in alignment with healthy choices. In an effort to positively influence students’ habits we strongly suggest that if food is shared for birthdays and holiday celebrations it will consist of healthy food and vegetable choices.
Students also have the option of celebrating their birthday by purchasing and donating a book to our library. A commemorative tag with the child’s name will be placed in the front of this book and it will become a part of the permanent library collection
School parties are kept to a minimum. The teacher, with the help of parent volunteers, arranges the parties. The parties last up to one hour. If you have objections to your child participating in any aspect of these parties, please contact the teacher for special arrangements. Food at these parties should be limited to healthy snacks. Beverages are discouraged; please do not bring red, purple or orange drinks for parties or activities, as these colors do not come out of the carpet when spilled. If you are planning to bring treats for one of these parties, please confirm your selection with the teacher/parent volunteer in advance to ensure no children will be excluded.
16
CODE OF CONDUCT AND BEHAVIOR EXPECTAIONS
Code of Student Conduct
All procedures outlined in this Code of Student Conduct apply to all students from Preschool through 6th grade. The Code of Student Conduct contains a list of specific grounds for disciplinary actions.
1. Grounds for Disciplinary Action
It should be pointed out that this list is not all-inclusive and, as such, a student committing an act of misconduct not listed above will nevertheless be subject to the discretionary authority of the principal or his/her designee. Certain actions may require the involvement of law enforcement agencies.
• Conduct that deprives others of opportunities to learn or otherwise interrupts the instructional process.
• General school or classroom disruptions (misconduct that is detrimental to the ongoing process of education).
• Failure to comply with ARPS uniform standards and dress code.
• Tardiness, skipping and truancy.
• Disobedience or disrespect toward school staff or officials.
• Use of profane or obscene language.
• Gambling, fighting, extortion or stealing.
• Possession and/or use of: tobacco products*; alcoholic beverages; controlled substances (drugs); counterfeit controlled substances; inhalants; or drug paraphernalia; or weapons.
• Possession and/or use of: electronic communication devices (cellular telephones, pagers, beepers, etc.).
• Threatening students or school staff.
• Defacing school property (vandalism).
• Violence or threats of violence against other students or school personnel.
• Violation of policies related to the prohibition of discrimination and sexual harassment.
• Making a bomb threat.
2. Disciplinary Action—General information
In the application of disciplinary actions, it is important to note that students have the right to:
• Know what the charges are against them.
17
• Give an explanation in their own defense.
• Be informed of the discipline they will receive from the misconduct or violations of the Code of Student Conduct.
All formal disciplinary actions by a teacher and/or an administrator will be documented. Informal disciplinary actions may be documented at the discretion of the teacher and/or administrator.
3. Informal Disciplinary Actions
Teachers and administrators strive to use a variety of informal disciplinary steps prior to formal disciplinary action. Of course, it must be understood that the type of disciplinary action taken depends greatly upon the offense committed.
Students are expected to take responsibility their own actions and behavior. They are expected to respond immediately to teachers’ corrections and take steps to control themselves.
In most cases students’ conduct improves dramatically after the teacher contacts the family. In the event that a student continues to misbehave, the next steps may include:
• Required writing assignment designed to cause the student to reflect on his/her misconduct
• Work assignment requiring the student to perform service work related to his/her misconduct
• A conference between the student and the entire teaching team
• A parent-teacher conference
• Office referral
• In-school-suspension
• Out-of-school suspension
• Behavior agreement based on the ARPS Enrollment Agreement
• Suggestion of alternate school placement
• Recommendation for dismissal from ARPS
NOTE: Severe or repeated misconduct will result in immediate attention from school administration.
4. Formal Disciplinary Action
In the event that informal classroom interventions do not correct misbehavior, or in the case of serious misconduct, formal disciplinary action by school administrators may be taken. Such actions may include, but are not limited to:
• Withdrawing Privileges in Extracurricular Activities: The school may elect to suspend privileges to participate in extracurricular activities, special classroom events, field trips, ceremonies and other school functions for a definitive period of time.
18
• Work Assignment: The school may elect to provide the student an opportunity to perform community service work activities related to the upkeep and maintenance of school facilities both during and after school hours.
• Time Out: The classroom teacher or principal may exclude a student who is constantly disruptive within the classroom from an individual class for a short period of time.
5. Out-of-School Suspension
A principal may suspend a pupil for serious breach of conduct. Suspension offenses include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Possession and/or use of or under the influence of alcoholic beverages, controlled substances (drugs), counterfeit controlled substances, inhalants or drug paraphernalia.*
• Possession or use of a weapon.*
• Violence against school personnel or other students.*
• Violation of policies prohibiting discrimination and sexual harassment. *
• Violation of transportation policies. *
• Making of a destructive device/bomb threat. *
• Possession of electronic communication devices (cell telephones, pagers, beepers).
• Willful disobedience.
• Open defiance of authority.
• Use of profane or obscene language.
• Possession or use of tobacco products.
• Disruptive behavior on school grounds or property that interrupts the learning/instructional process.
Special Notes:
In accordance with Board Policy and state law, certain offenses or repeat offenses may also warrant a recommendation for removal. It should be pointed out, however, that this list is not all-inclusive and as such, a student committing an act of misconduct not listed will nevertheless be subject to the discretionary authority of the principal and/or designee.
* Committing offenses #1-6 mentioned above may also result in criminal penalties. The first six offenses listed above require, at a minimum, ten (10) days suspension and an appearance by the parents and student before the Principal.
No suspension shall be imposed by the principal for more than ten (10) days for any offense, unless the suspension period expires before the next regular or special meeting of the ARPS Board or when Board action on a recommendation for dismissal of the student is pending.
If a student is suspended out of school, the school must notify parents in writing (and, if
19
possible, by phone) stating the reason for suspension, the length of suspension and the date the student may return to school. A copy of the suspension letter is kept in the student’s disciplinary folder.
Any student who is under suspension, recommendation for dismissal, recommended for expulsion or expelled shall not be allowed to attend any school-sponsored activity or function, nor shall be allowed on school property for the duration of the suspension, dismissal or expulsion.
6. Removal by Teacher
A teacher may remove a student from class whose behavior the teacher determines is so unruly, disruptive or abusive that it seriously interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in the class or with the ability of the student’s classmates to learn.
7. Behavior Agreement
Students who demonstrate a pattern of misconduct and discipline infractions may be placed on a behavior agreement that specifies conduct which will result in a recommendation that the student be dismissed from ARPS. Such agreements are developed in partnership with the ARPS administration, teachers, the student and his/her parents.
Positive School Wide Behavior Systems
ARPS focuses on positive behaviors and helping every child develop positive social skills. We pride ourselves on positive behavior support and implement processes that guide students to becoming productive citizens. The following represents our school-wide values:
O - Own your actions and make wise choices.
W - Work hard, do your best.
L - Lend a helping hand.
OWL Points are awarded to students who display our school wide values. Students earn reward for accumulated points from the principal and in their classroom.
Playground Rules
All children must to be supervised by an adult when playing on ARPS playgrounds.
• Be kind, thoughtful, welcoming and patient. • Include others. • Leave rocks, wood chips, dirt, gravel and snow on the ground. • Toys brought from home stay inside. • Touch with two-fingers only. • Keep your body to yourself.
20
• Gates must always be shut. • Use “I”- Messages for problems we can solve. If help is needed, seek an adult. • All games should be school appropriate. • Be aware of your surroundings. • Stay off the fence. • Have fun!
Swings • Swing on your bottom. • Swing in a straight motion. • One person swings at a time. • Stop the swing before stepping off. • Keep a safe distance from the swings.
Rock Wall • Climb up and down only.
Playground Slide • Go down the slide, on your bottom, feet first. One person can slide at a time. • Clear the area at the bottom of the slide.
Playground Structure • Stay on the inside of the playground equipment (climbing on the outside of equipment is
unsafe). Field
• Balls stay on the field or blacktop. Follow grade-level soccer rules. Monkey Bars
• Monkey bars are for hanging only. • Travel in one direction on bars.
STUDENT ILLNESS AND MEDICATION
Student Illness
We want every child here, every day they are not contagious and are able to learn. Any student with a fever needs to remain home during the fever and not return to school until they have been fever free without medication for 24 hours. Any student that has vomited must remain home until after 24 hours after the last vomiting incident. Children who come to the health office having vomited or with a fever of 100.4 will be sent home. Other conditions will be reviewed on an individual basis.
Aspen Ridge Preparatory School will attempt to call parents/guardians to come and pick up a child if he/she becomes ill during the school day. Please be sure to keep the emergency information as changes occur. Per ARPS policy, students may not return to school until 24
21
hours have passed since the last occurrence of vomiting OR diarrhea OR fever 100.4 or higher without medication.
Medication
According to state law, students may not bring medication of any kind to school. This includes all over-the-counter medications. If a student needs medication at school, parents must transport the medication to school, submit a Permission for Medication form with a physician’s signature and leave the medication in the possession of the school health clerk, who will keep it in locked storage.
The following guidelines apply for all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.
• Will be given with the parent or guardian’s written permission.
• Will be given only on the written authorization of the physician. The pharmacy labeled bottle cannot be used as the physician’s written authorization. The authorization must include the name of the child, name of medication, dosage, frequency of administration, the name and phone number of the doctor that prescribed the medication and the parent’s name, signature and emergency phone number. The medicine must be labeled with the student’s name, name of the medication, dosage and time to be given. The health clerk will dispense the medication according to the direction of the doctor or parent. If the health clerk is not available, then other school staff may dispense the medication. The health clerk office does not provide any medications other than that brought in by the parents.
• Will be provided by the parent in an individual pharmacy labeled container for the student who is to receive it.
• Will be recorded by office personnel. This record states student’s name, medication, dosage, time taken and the name of person assisting the student.
• Students are not permitted to have any kind of medication in their possession at any time in school, on school transportation or at a school sponsored event. The only exception is for medication that the student has written physician authorization on file to self-carry as described by state policy C.R.S. 05-156.
• If a parent or guardian provides written authorization to administer medication to their child, they understand that Aspen Ridge Preparatory School and/or any staff member is not responsible or liable for any and all problems resulting from the medication or the administration of the medication. The parent or guardian remains legally responsible for all medication/s administered to their child or taken by their child. Under no circumstances will a teacher or other school staff administer the first dosage of a new medication.
Individualized Health Plans
For certain medical conditions, the parents must submit to the school a completed IHP plan. An IHP clearly states a detailed description of the condition, symptoms of the condition and a
22
detailed school management plan as to how to care for your student at school with this condition. This document must be signed by a physician. For example, an IHP would be submitted for a student with diabetes, asthma, severe allergies, chronic heart conditions, etc.
Health Information
It is essential that we have the following information on file in case of illness or emergency:
1. At least two telephone numbers where parents can be reached.
2. Names and telephone numbers of relatives or friends who should be contacted if parents are not available.
Head Lice
Head lice are described as an infestation of head hair by adult lice, larvae or nits (eggs). If a child is found to have head lice/untreated nits at school the child will be excluded from school until the hair has been treated with a recommended lice treatment and they are free of nits. Other students may be screened and/or parents notified depending on the circumstance.
GRADING PERIODS AND HOMEWORK
Report Cards
Aspen Ridge’s elementary academic calendar is divided into three trimesters (twelve week periods). Grade reports (report cards) are distributed 3 times each school year. Report cards will reflect your student’s progress on Aspen Ridge and the state’s standards/curriculum. The teacher will notify parents of any child having academic difficulties. We believe that it is important to keep parents informed of each child’s academic progress.
Report cards will be available electronically via the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. It is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to set up a login account on Infinite Campus. A paper copy of the report card will be provided only if specifically requested.
Homework
Teachers will be assigning homework appropriate to the grade level. Encourage your child to complete their work both at home and at school. Discussing homework with your child helps to develop a positive attitude about learning, especially when learning something new or difficult.
Make-Up Work Policy
Occasionally students must miss school. When they return to school they are responsible for checking with their teacher for the assignments they missed and what must to be made up.
23
Students have 5 calendar days to make up any work missed. After 5 days, the late work policy will be enforced on any missing work. Any tests, homework or projects that were announced prior to the student’s absence must be made up on the day the student returns to school
Parents may call the main office for missed work. Teachers need 24 hours’ notice to gather work and get it to the office for pick-up.
Late Work Policy
Punctuality is a habit students must learn in order to be successful in life. Our late work policies are not designed to be harsh; rather they are designed to teach students how to be organized and responsible.
• Late work is defined as any work turned in after the teacher has completion the collected of the assignment.
• Students are expected to turn in work on time and in keeping “Quality Work Standards”.
• Late work may receive a penalty at the discretion of the classroom teacher.
• Students who are absent the day of a test are expected to take the test upon returning to school. (Tests are announced days in advance.)
• Homework assigned prior to the absence is due upon returning to school.
• Students who are absent the day a project or long –range assignment is due are expected to turn in the projects/work upon returning to school.
SCHOOL LUNCHES
Meal Price
The ARPS Cafeteria serves lunch daily. Price for elementary student’s lunch is $2.75. Meals at ARPS follow all dietary guidelines of the Federal School Lunch Program. Free and Reduced-price meals are available for students whose families qualify for the program. Forms for Free and Reduced lunches are available in the front office.
Parents Joining for Lunch
Parents are always welcome to join us for lunch. If you wish to purchase a $3.25 adult lunch, you will need to notify the school by 9:00 am on the day you will be joining us so that we can include you in our lunch count.
24
CLASSROOM PLACEMENT PROCEDURES
It is our goal at Aspen Ridge Preparatory School to balance classrooms based on students’ academic and social/character achievements and needs. Students identified with special needs (such as Gifted, Special Ed. or English Language Learners) may be clustered.
Decisions regarding student room assignments will be made collaboratively among the sending teachers, special program teachers and the principal during a designated staff meeting time according to the following procedures:
• The classroom teachers will share their student cards. The cards are a result of each individual classroom teacher’s consideration of each of her/his present student’s strengths, interests and achievement levels in the areas of academic and social/ character skills.
• Each classroom teacher will individually and then collaboratively review parent input regarding student learning styles, student interests and family/student learning goals. Parents of current and incoming students will be notified that input forms will be available in the spring two weeks before the Placement Meeting.
• Only a grade level will be put on the students’ report cards in May. In order to maintain classrooms best meeting the needs of students, we may need to make adjustments over the summer. We will post final room assignments in August.
PARENTAL CODE OF CONDUCT
The ARPS community is built on a desire to provide our children with an excellent education in a friendly community. Parents are one of the most influential role models in a child’s life, and one of the best ways for a parent to teach is to lead by example. Accordingly, Aspen Ridge Preparatory School expects the behavior of each parent and responsible adult with children enrolled at our school to adhere to the standards of conduct set forth below.
• When visiting or volunteering in the school, parents should observe all the rules of the school, including signing in LobbyGuard and signing the volunteer log stating their destination in the building.
• If a parent has questions or issues relating to the classroom or a class, they should first be addressed to the staff member in question. Parents are requested to set up a conference where their concerns can be discussed.
• Parents are not allowed to set up websites or Facebook pages for classrooms.
• All communications on school grounds, during school events and/or regarding issues with other parents, school staff members or school events shall remain respectful and address the issues at hand. Yelling, taunting, threatening or abusive behavior, cursing, foul language and remarks that are derogatory, inflammatory or accusatory are not acceptable means of communication, whether face to face, in email, text or voicemail. Parents are expected to resolve issues through calm dialogue between the parties directly involved while respecting the dignity of others.
25
• Parents shall protect the reputation and good name of people involved. Problems, differences of opinion and personality clashes are not resolved by involving other people in a disagreement or by taking sides to an argument. Problems should not be casually discussed with other parents at school, but should be dealt with one on one with the person or persons with whom the parent has an issue.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT ASPEN RIDGE
We welcome help and support from our Aspen Ridge parents and there are many opportunities to volunteer both in and out of the classroom. We have organized many fundraising and outreach events. Please call the school if you are interested in getting involved.
26
