T.R. Paul Academy of Arts & Knowledge


Resources

Student and Parent Handbook

T.R. Paul Academyof Arts & Knowledge 2012/2013 Parent/Student Handbook Kindergarten – 8th Grade

On behalf of the T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge (TPAAK) community, welcome! Our staff is pleased to have you here as a student or as a supportive parent. We will do our best to help you and make your experience here productive and successful.

This Parent-Student Handbook has pertinent information, rules and regulations. Therefore it is important that every parent and student read and become familiar with its contents. The handbook was developed so we can ensure a safe and organized program and to communicate an understanding of expectations between students, parents and the school.

We hope that your child’s school year will be not only educational, but enjoyable. We are committed to providing high quality education and care for our students. The T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge Handbook is designed to help students and parents become a part of the TPAAK community and to integrate into our culture of caring and success. We are all responsible for knowing and adhering to the contents of this handbook. Although it cannot cover every situation or question, it is designed to be your guide through the most common situations.

NOTE: This handbook supersedes all prior handbooks and other written material on the same subjects. This handbook should not be construed to accord any rights or privileges to students or families beyond those accorded by law.

Contact Information
T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge
4512 McMurry, Ft. Collins CO 80525
Phone: 970-226-2800
Website: www.TPAAK.org

Head of School (HOS)/Principal:
Mrs. Karen Griffin
E-Mail: kgriffin@tpaak.org

Student Records/Office Manager:
Ms. Rebecca Tomasek
E-Mail: rtomasek@tpaak.org

COMMUNICATIONS

T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge maintains an open door policy concerning communication with parents, students, staff and our community. At the same time, however, all concerns should be addressed at the lowest level possible. Any student or parent with a concern should follow the proper line of contact to address an issue.
    1.  The teacher, activity director, or personnel responsible.
    2.  The Head of School (Principal)
    3.  Mosaica Regional Vice-President
    4.  The TPAAK Board of Directors

A BRIEF HISTORY

Annette Riesel and a group of local community leaders founded T.R. Paul Academy in 2006. It was founded with the belief that in order to have a well-rounded and global education, academics and the arts must be integrated.

Ms. Riesel’s vision resonated with Mr. T.R. Paul of Pittsburgh, who owned the facility at 4512 McMurry in Ft. Collins. Although originally intending to sell the facility, Mr. Paul became excited about the project and donated $1.6 million toward redesigning the building into a school and then buying all of the bonds to finance the project so that the school would have a permanent home. Mr. Paul passed away in 2007 at the age of 88. Prior to his death, the children of TPAAK sent him hundreds of handmade get-well cards, all of which he read shortly before he passed away.

WHAT MAKES T.R. PAUL ACADEMY OF ARTS AND KNOWLEDGE UNIQUE?

T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge offers a unique educational experience for students and parents. Our school uses the Mosaica Educational Model, which is a research based college prep model. Given structure in core subjects and participating in age-appropriate interactive learning experiences through our proprietary Paragon curriculum, students learn through a variety of instructional approaches. Dedicated, trained teachers positively interact and encourage each student to be the best they can be.

Brain research has shown that when learning involves multi-sensory involvement, which is a strong part of artistic expression, that greater learning and retention occurs. Therefore, the arts are not just “for art’s sake” but rather are incorporated into instruction to increase student achievement.

Students are placed on educational learning plans and, together with teachers and parents, work toward these goals. Parents are an important, welcomed and necessary part of the process as students successfully complete their journey.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

TPAAK is governed by a local board of directors. The Board includes elected and appointed members and meets the second TUESDAY of each month at 6 p.m. in the Library, room 229 at the school. The Board is responsible for the governance, strategic planning, financial oversight, policies and oversight of the school’s management group – Mosaica Education. Parents are encouraged to attend the public board meetings and be involved by either serving on Board committees or seeking a position on the Board. More information about the Board can be found at www.tpaak.org.

MOSAICA EDUCATION MANAGEMENT

The TPAAK Board has contracted with Mosaica Education to provide professional management and unique educational programs for TPAAK. Mosaica manages more than 90 elementary, middle and high school programs in 9 states, the District of Columbia and internationally.  Mosaica provides the following advantages for TPAAK: Extensive school management experience in all areas of educational operations; research-based curriculum including Paragon curriculum; economy of scale for purchasing; cash flow support; human resources support and established policies and procedures. The administrative efficiency provided by Mosaica enables TPAAK to put more dollars into the classroom, when compared to other charter schools, which function as individual sites.

EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY

The policy of TPAAK is to provide an equal education opportunity for all students.

Any person who believes that the school or any staff person has discriminated against a student on the basis of race, color, creed, age, disability, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, or other protected characteristics, or social or economic background, has the right to file a complaint. A formal complaint can be made in writing to the school’s Head of School.

The complaint will be investigated and a response, in writing, will be given to the concerned person within 30 days. Under no circumstances will TPAAK threaten or retaliate against anyone who raises or files a complaint, unless the complaint is determined to have been in bad faith.

SCHOOL DAY AND SCHOOL YEAR

The school day at T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge is 7:55 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. The extended school year results in more than 20% additional instructional time per year. Tardiness and frequent absenteeism at TPAAK are not acceptable. Please refer to sections in this handbook regarding these issues and their consequences.

TESTING AND COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE
TPAAK is a FREE PUBLIC community charter school authorized by the state of Colorado Charter School Institute. The school is a public school and students enrolled in and attending the school are required to take proficiency tests and other examinations prescribed by law. In addition, there may be other requirements for students at the school that are prescribed by law. Students who have been excused from the compulsory attendance law for the purpose of home education as defined in the Administrative Code shall no longer be excused for that purpose upon their enrollment in a community school. For more information about this matter contact the HOS or the Colorado Department of Education.

PROCEDURES

EMERGENCY DRILLS

T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge has a Multi-Hazard Plan in place and practices all necessary drills, such as, fire and tornado in compliance with State regulations and laws.
The school complies with all fire safety laws and will conduct fire drills in accordance with State law. Tornado drills will be conducted during the tornado season using the procedures provided by the State. Specific instructions on how to proceed will be provided to students by their teachers who will be responsible for safe, prompt, and orderly evacuation of the building. In a situation where students need to evacuate the building, a designated point will be communicated to parents for students to be picked up and taken home.

EMERGENCY CLOSINGS AND DELAYS

If the school must be closed or the opening delayed because of inclement weather it will be on the local radio stations and television. Parents and students are responsible for accessing media to learn about emergency closings and delays. There may be some emergency instances, which will require school to be closed early. IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT THAT PARENTS DISCUSS WITH THEIR CHILD EMERGENCY PROCEDURES THAT THEY SHOULD FOLLOW IN THE EVENT SCHOOL IS CLOSED EARLY.

ATTENDANCE

School Attendance Policy:
It is imperative that students be in attendance each school day in order not to miss a significant portion of their education. Important learning results from active participation in classroom and other school activities, which cannot be replaced by individual study.
Truancy
“Habitual truant” is a child of compulsory school age who is absent without legitimate excuse for five or more consecutive school days, seven or more school days in one school month, or twelve or more school days in a school year. A “chronic truant” is any child of compulsory school age who is absent without legitimate excuse for seven or more consecutive school days, 10 or more school days in a school month, or 15 or more school days in a school year.
Any student, who, without legitimate excuse, fails to participate in 105 consecutive hours of learning opportunities offered to the student by the school, shall be automatically withdrawn from the school. The student shall be withdrawn by the end of the thirtieth day after the failure to participate as required by this division. Unexcused absence from school (truancy) is not acceptable. Students who are truant will receive no credit for schoolwork that is missed. After seven [7] days of truancy in any school month a student will be considered a “habitual truant” which can result in a hearing before a judge in a court of law and/or a report to local authorities concerning lack of parental responsibility in providing proper care and supervision of a child.
Excused Absences
Students between seven and 16 years old having four unexcused absences from public school in any one month or 10 unexcused absences from public school during any school year are habitually truant. Absences due to suspension or expulsion are considered excused (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 22-33-107).
According to state law, students must attend school. Excused absences, as outlined in our handbook, are for:
     ·         Illness
     ·         Death in the family
     ·         Religious holiday
     ·         Absences due to appointments that cannot be scheduled outside school times
     ·         Other reasons excused by the HOS.
Frequently ill children will need a doctor’s note on the third absence due to illness in a quarter and every absence due to illness after that. The homeroom teacher will track these absences and inform the HOS.       

  • 2 unexcused absences in quarter=Letter sent home to parent
  • 3 unexcused absences in quarter=1/2 day in school suspension                    
  • 4 unexcused absences in quarter=full day in school suspension
  • 5 unexcused absences in quarter=1/2 day out of school suspension
  • 6 unexcused absences in quarter=1 day out of school suspension
  • Every following unexcused absence will result in 1 day added to out of school suspension             
  • 3 out of school suspensions=expulsion hearing

Students who do not follow these policies will be disenrolled and appropriate officials will be notified.
Students with a health condition that causes repeated absence are to provide the school office with an explanation of the condition from a registered physician.

Parents must provide an explanation for their child’s absence by no later than 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence or send a note the following day. They are to call the school office; the telephone number can be found inside the front cover of this handbook, and explain the reason for the absence. If the absence can be foreseen (the “good cause” must be approved by the HOS), the parent should arrange to discuss the matter as many days as possible before the absence will occur so that arrangements can be made to assist the student in making up the missed school work.

SUSPENSION & EXPULSION

Absence from school due to suspension or expulsion shall be considered an authorized absence, neither excused nor unexcused.
A suspended student will be responsible for making up schoolwork missed due to suspension. It is recommended that a student complete missed assignments during the suspension and turn them in to the teacher upon his/her return from school. Assignments may be obtained from the teacher beginning with the first day of a suspension. Make up of missed tests may be scheduled when the student returns to school. The student will be given credit for properly‑completed assignments and a grade on any made-up tests.

EXCUSABLE OR UNEXCUSED ABSENCE

Excused: If a student is absent from school because of illness or vacation, the absence, at the HOS’s discretion, will not be considered truant, and s/he may be given the opportunity to make up the schoolwork that is missed.
Unexcused:  Any student who is absent from school for all or any part of the day without a legitimate excuse may be considered truant and the student and his/her parents may be subject to the truancy laws of the State.

NOTIFICATION OF ABSENCE    

If a student is going to be absent, the parents must contact the school by 9:00 a.m. and provide an explanation. When no excuse is provided, the absence will be unexcused and the student will be considered truant. If the absence of a student appears to be questionable or excessive, the school staff will try to help parents improve their child’s attendance. An excused absence allows the student to make up all possible work. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain missed assignments. It is possible that certain kinds of schoolwork such as labs or skill-practice sessions cannot be made up and, as a result, may negatively impact a student’s grade. The skipping of classes or any part of the school day is considered an unexcused absence and no make-up of class work will be permitted. Disciplinary action will follow.

TARDINESS

Students are expected to be at school, in their classrooms, at 7:55am each day.  We have a 7:55am bell, and a tardy bell at 8am
Due to the amount of frequently and habitually tardy students in the past, the following policy has been put into place. This policy is for excused and unexcused tardiness. No student should miss 3 or 4 mornings in a 10 week period, even for appointments. If there is a need for regular appointments or an extenuating circumstance, the HOS has the right to excuse tardiness from the count.
Per Quarter
            ·  At the beginning of each quarter, students start over with a clean record
                2 unexcused tardies=letter home
                3rd tardy in quarter=loss of lunch recess
                4th tardy in quarter=loss of lunch recess and lunch detention
                5th tardy in quarter=1/2 day in school suspension

                6th tardy in quarter=full day in school suspension

                7th tardy in quarter=1/2 day out of school suspension

                8th tardy in quarter=full day out of school suspension
           

            ·  Three out-of-schools will lead to an expulsion hearing
The homeroom teacher will be responsible for tracking and numbering each tardy, informing the parents which number they are on each time.
A student who is not in his/her assigned location by the start of the school day shall be considered tardy. Any student arriving late to school is to report to the school office before proceeding to class. If a student misses any part of the instructional school day, his/her attendance is affected.
VACATIONS DURING THE YEAR
Parents are encouraged not to take their child out of school for vacations. When a family vacation must be scheduled during the school year, the parents should discuss the matter with the HOS and the student’s teacher(s) to make necessary arrangements. It may be possible for the student to receive certain assignments that are to be completed during the trip.

MAKE-UP TESTS

Students who are excusably absent from school or who have been suspended shall be given the opportunity to make-up work that has been missed. The student should contact the teacher as soon as possible to obtain assignments.
Make-up work due to suspension must be completed by the time the student returns to school. Students will be given the number of days of excused absence within which to make-up work. If a student misses a teacher’s test due to excused absence, s/he may make arrangements with the teacher to take the test. If s/he misses a Colorado Proficiency Test or other standardized test, the student should consult with the teacher to arrange for taking the test within the testing window.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE AND SCHOOL EVENTS

The school encourages students to attend as many school events held after school as possible, without interfering with their schoolwork and home activities. Enthusiastic spectators help to build school spirit and encourage those students who are participating in the event. However, in order to ensure that students attending evening events as non-participants are properly safeguarded, it is strongly advised that a parent or adult chaperone accompany students when they attend the event. TPAAK will not be able to supervise unaccompanied students nor will it be responsible for students who arrive without an adult chaperone.
The school will continue to provide adequate supervision for all students who are participants in a TPAAK  activity. Students must comply with the Code of Conduct at school events, regardless of the location.

LEAVING SCHOOL BEFORE THE END OF THE DAY

No student will be allowed to leave school prior to dismissal time without a written note to the teacher 24 hours in advance and the parent coming to the school office to request the release and sign the child out. No student will be released to a person other than a custodial parent(s) (or name listed on emergency card) without a permission note signed by the custodial parent(s). Person signing a student out must be at least 18 years old.

LEAVING SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS

Students may not leave the school grounds without permission from office personnel. Before this can be granted, a written request from the parent must be presented. STUDENTS MUST BE SIGNED OUT IN THE OFFICE BY PARENT/GUARDIAN BEFORE LEAVING THE BUILDING DURING THE SCHOOL DAY OR FROM CHAMPIONS BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS. Students leaving school without permission will be considered truant.

ENROLLING IN SCHOOL

Students that are new to T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge are required to enroll with their parent/guardian. To enroll your child, parents are required to bring the following:

A Birth Certificate or other certification permitted by state law
Proof of Residency
Proof of Immunization
Child’s Social Security Card
Custody papers from the court, when appropriate
Last Report Card, when appropriate

In some cases, a temporary enrollment may be permitted. If that is done, the parents will be told what records are needed to make the enrollment complete and the date by which such records must be provided. Admission to the school is open to any individual who, as of October 1 is 5 years old or older.
There will be no discrimination in the admission of students to the school on the basis of race, creed, color, handicapping condition, or sex. Upon the admission of any handicapped student, the school will comply with all federal and state laws regarding the education of handicapped students. The school will not limit admission to students on the basis of intellectual ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, or athletic ability. The school will admit the number of students that does not exceed the capacity of the school’s programs, classes, grade levels, and facility. If the number of applicants exceeds the capacity restrictions of the school, students shall be admitted by lot from all those submitting applications, except preference shall be given to students attending the school the previous year and their siblings.

SCHEDULING AND ASSIGMENT

The HOS will assign each student to the appropriate classroom and the program in which the student will participate. Any questions or concerns about assignment should be discussed with the HOS.

TRANSFER OUT OF SCHOOL

If a student plans to transfer from TPAAK, the parent must notify the school. Transfer of educational records will be authorized only after the parent/guardian has completed the withdrawal form, returned all school materials, and paid any fees or fines that are due. School records may not be released if the transfer is not properly completed. Parents are encouraged to contact the office for specific details

STUDENT RECORDS

The teachers, behavior intervention specialists, and administrative staff keep many student records. All student records are kept confidential.  Confidential records contain educational and behavioral information that have restricted access based on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Colorado law. This information can only be released with the written consent of the parents, the adult student, or a surrogate, subject to limited exceptions.
Included in the confidential records may be test scores, psychological reports, behavior data, disciplinary actions and communications with the family and outside service providers. Confidential information that is in a student’s record that originates from an outside professional or agency may be released to the parent only with permission of the originator. Such records shall be placed in a student’s file only with knowledge of the parent. Parents may obtain such records from the originator and should maintain them in a home file. Parents may also provide TPAAK with copies of records made by non-school professional agencies or individuals. Access to student records by a parent or guardian may only be denied through an official court order.

Students and parents have the right to review all educational records generated by TPAAK, request amendment to these records, insert addendums to records, and obtain copies of such records. Copying costs may be charged to the requestor. If a review of records is desired, please contact the building HOS, in writing, stating the records desired. The records will be collected and an appointment will be made within forty-five (45) days of the request with the appropriate persons present to answer any questions there may be.

STUDENT FEES, FINES, AND CHARGES

T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge charges specific fees for various purposes. Such fees or charges are determined by the cost of materials, freight/handling fees, and add-on fees for loss or damage to school property. The school and staff do not make a profit. Students using school property and equipment can be fined for excessive wear and abuse of the property and equipment. The fine will be assessed at replacement cost.

STUDENT VALUABLES

Students are encouraged not to bring items of value to school. Items such as jewelry, expensive clothing, electronic equipment, and the like, are tempting targets for theft. The school cannot be responsible for their safekeeping and will not be liable for loss or damage to personal valuables.

CAFETERIA- SCHOOL LUNCHES

Hot lunches are available at the school at a rate of $3.40 per day. Free and reduced-price lunches are available to those who qualify. Qualification forms, which are confidential, are available at the front desk.

A menu is provided each month in advance so that parents can decide which days their student may participate in the hot lunch program.

Applications for TPAAK’s Free and Reduced-Meal program are available in the office for all students.
Students can qualify for discounted prices for lunches if they meet certain criteria as established under federal reduced lunch price guidelines. Contact the office for more details. The school cafeteria is available to all students whether lunch is purchased at the cafeteria or brought from home. In the multipurpose room, the quality of student citizenship can be most clearly observed. Because of the number of students involved, basic rules of etiquette and courtesy are necessary. Students are expected to conduct themselves properly at all times. Failure to do so may result in revoking cafeteria privileges.

LUNCHROOM PROCEDURES

   ·    Students can NOT charge more than 1 lunch at any time
   ·    Students are expected to stay seated while eating lunch
   ·    Students are expected to talk in quiet voices to their friends
   ·    Students are not allowed to eat from other student’s lunches
   ·    Students may raise their hand to get help from supervisors or get permission to       throw away trash
   ·    Students are expected to leave the table and benches clean after eating
   ·    Proper lunchroom manners are expected.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost and Found is located in the FRONT FOYER. It is the location for all misplaced items in the school with the exception of eye glasses.  Those are turned into the School Nurse and held until the end of the school year at which time they are donated to the Lions Club.  The main lost and found is emptied completely on a monthly basis. Please check this area weekly and retrieve your children’s possessions.

STUDENT SALES

No student is permitted to sell any item or service in school without the approval of the HOS. Violation of this policy may lead to disciplinary action. Trading or selling of the following items is not allowed: radios, CD’s, CD Players, tape recorders, toys, dolls, trading cards, video games and other like items. These items or others like them shall not be brought to school unless the teacher or HOS has given specific permission.

USE OF TELEPHONES AND CELL PHONES

Students are not permitted to make calls on the telephone unless the HOS or teacher gives permission. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE CALLED FROM CLASS FOR TELEPHONE CALLS. Phone messages from parents to students may be given to the front office, who will give the message to the student. It is extremely disruptive to have students called from class. No telephone calls will be forwarded to the classrooms.

ADVERTISING OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES

No announcements or posting of outside activities will be permitted without the approval of the HOS. A minimum of twenty-four (24) hours notice is required to ensure that the HOS has the opportunity to review the announcement.

STUDENT PICK UP AND DROP OFF

Please note: We use both lanes (one way) for all pick up and drop off of students at TPAAK.
Using both lanes enables us to keep the process moving smoothly. With so many new students we know that it will take a few days for the drop off and pick up patterns to become stable. We ask that you please place a sign in your window visible from several yards away with the last name of the child(ren) you will be picking up.  We thank you in advance for your patience and welcome suggestions that will help us with this process.

STUDENT DROP OFF     

If parents are NOT using the express drop off lanes they need to park and walk their child to the playground to join their class and teacher by 7:50 am.  Please use the crosswalks to model safe citizenship for our students.
If students are tardy (arriving any time after 7:55 a.m.) they will need to sign in at the front office.

DROP-OFF THROUGH EXPRESS LANE ONLY

Cars enter TPAAK from west and exit out of the northeast corner of the school behind the building. Drop off only takes place along the eastern side of the building. A teacher will be present to escort your child from your vehicle to the sidewalk and playground area.
The right lane turns RIGHT only and the left lane turns LEFT only.
Cars can use both lanes and are asked to pull all the way forward and wait for a teacher to help lead your student from your vehicle.
Students MUST be ready to exit the car when their car arrives to the drop off lane. This includes backpacks ready to go, coats on, breakfast finished, hugs and kisses completed. PARENTS ARE NOT TO EXIT THE CAR.
A teacher will help the students cross to the playground to meet their classmates.
Drop off begins at 7:40 and concludes at 7:50.  If no teacher is visible on the playground, please do not drop off your child!  You must wait until there is a teacher on the playground.
For safety’s sake do not drop off children on the west or south side of the building!

STUDENT PICK-UP     

Students NOT picked up in the express lane will only be released to parents by their teacher outside on the playground at 3:45 p.m.
PICK-UP THROUGHT EXPRESS LANE

Students will not be released until 3:45.
Any child not picked up by 3:55 will be brought directly to the Champions after- school program and their fees will be applied.
Please use BOTH LANES for pick-up. However, if your child is not ready, you may be asked to pull forward and into the left lane or onto Monte Carlo, so we can keep the right lane moving. We will make certain your students get to you safely.
Students will be released from the cafeteria, but PLEASE pull all the way forward. Teachers will escort your students to your car.
In order to keep traffic moving, we ask that if you have major buckling up to do, please exit the school and pull to the side of Monte Carlo Street and buckle up there. It keeps the traffic moving.

PLEASE DO NOT USE CELL PHONES WHEN DROPPING OFF OR PICKING UP STUDENTS.

SCHOOL PARTIES

There are only three scheduled parties each year: Fall Celebration, Winter Break and End of the Year. Teachers enlist the help of parents with the planning and/or treats. Watch for information from your child’s teacher. The date and time of the parties will be determined at the building level. Birthday parties are left up to the discretion of the teacher. Please contact the teacher first before sending any treats to school, treats must be store bought. IT IS THE SCHOOL POLICY NOT TO PASS OUT BIRTHDAY INVITATIONS UNLESS THERE IS ONE FOR EACH MEMBER OF THE CLASS.

RECESS

School policy is that all children go out for recess. They should wear adequate clothing and dress for the weather. On days when the weather is extremely cold (determined by wind chill factor) or rainy, recess will be held inside. STUDENTS WILL HAVE INDOOR RECESS IF THE AIR TEMPERATURE OR WIND CHILL IS 20 DEGREES OR BELOW.
If a student is well enough to come to school, he/she is expected to go out for recess. To stay inside the student must bring a note from the doctor. After an extended illness, if requested in writing by the parents, the student may be allowed to stay in for a day or more at the HOS’s discretion.
Students are expected to stay in their assigned play area. Students may not bring items such as, baseballs (hardballs), Frisbees, skateboards, roller blades, scooters or any toy, which may present a safety hazard. It is expected that students listen and follow all instructions given by the playground aides.

GUM

The chewing of gum will not be allowed during the school day. Students should not bring gum to school.  PLEASE DO NOT SEND GUM OR GUM PRODUCTS AS A BIRTHDAY OR PARTY TREAT.

MONEY AND OTHER VALUABLES

If money is being sent to school, parents should:
   ·    Place the money in an envelope
   ·    Include a note inside, stating the reason for the money being sent
   ·    Place the teacher’s name and child’s name on the outside of the envelope

CARE OF PROPERTY

Students are responsible for the care of their own personal property. The school will not be responsible for personal property. Valuables such as jewelry or irreplaceable items should not be brought to school. The school may confiscate such items and return them to the student’s parents. If a student does damage to or loses school property, the student or his/her parents will be required to pay for the replacement or damage. If the damage or loss was intentional, the student will also be subject to discipline.

We discourage parents from allowing children to bring large amounts of money to school. Students are not allowed to bring valuable equipment such as tape and/or CD players, computer games, and remote controlled cars, or other electronic toys unless there is a special occasion, and prior permission granted from the teacher and parent. If such items are brought to school they will be confiscated until a parent picks the item up.

STUDENT PICTURES

Families may purchase student pictures each year. Students will have their individual pictures taken early in the school year. Specific information about the procedure and purchase of pictures will be sent home prior to picture day.    Specific time will be established.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are academic activities that are held off school grounds. Parent drivers will transfer student to and from field trips. There are also other trips that are part of the school’s co-curricular and extra-curricular programs. No student may participate in any school-sponsored trip without written parental consent. Students must have a green TPAAK spirit shirt and must wear it on field trip days.  Field trips are designed to extend curricular areas for our students. Parents may be asked to be a chaperone on a field trip. The role of a chaperone is to supervise students; therefore siblings are not allowed to accompany parents on any field trip, unless discussed with and approved by the teacher.

DRESS CODE

Students must comply with the UNIFORM dress code established by the TPAAK Board of Directors. Graphics or texts on clothing are not to be worn to school. If clothing violates the dress code, students will be sent to the office to call home for appropriate clothing.

The following are the approved clothing items, all items must be correct colors:

BOTTOMS COLORS:   Navy or Khaki Tan

PANTS:                                                                                                                                      Straight-legged or slight flair.
Twill or thin-wale corduroy.
Four pockets or less, all pockets near the waistline and coin pockets do not count as a pocket.
Pants should be off the ground but to the ankle in length.                                                  No cargo pants, “hip hugger”, or bell-bottom pants.

No sweat pants or stretch pants

SHORTS/CAPRIS:                                                                                                                    No shorter than 4″ above knee
No longer than 2″ below knee

SKIRTS:  Skirt, skort or jumper may be no shorter than 3″ above the knee.

TOP COLORS:   Any solid color

SHIRTS:  Turtleneck, long-or short-sleeved collared polo, or oxford cloth without emblems.  Girls may wear blouses with long or short sleeves with peter pan or straight collar.
TPAAK logo tee-shirts may be worn only on designated days.
Sweatshirts in TPAAK top colors may be worn over dress code shirts.

SWEATERS:                                                                                                                    Cardigan, v-neck or vest of flat-knit weave no patterns or emblems.  Must be in TPAAK top colors.

SOCKS:  Navy, tan or white ankle, crew or knee-high, with no decoration. Socks are always to be worn.

TIGHTS:  Navy or white plain or cable knit, no nylon stockings.

UNDERGARMENTS:  Plain white undershirts may be worn under school shirts.
Shorts may be worn under skirts but should not be visible.

SHOES:  Tennis shoes are acceptable.  Black, brown, white, navy solid or close-to solid colors in athletic or leather style.
Shoelaces should be black, white or dark blue.  1” heel maximum.

No Uggs, Crocs, flip-flops or open toed shoes

Winter boots can be worn to and from school and at outdoor recess and should be removed when in the building.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION DRESS:  Appropriate athletic shoes should be worn on gym days

BELTS:
Solid black, brown, navy, or khaki leather, with plain buckles, no decorations.
Belt-ends no longer than 6″ and tucked in.

HAIR ACCESSORIES:
Clean and combed appearance.
Boy’s hair will be no longer than 1″ below collar in back.
Hair must have natural color.
Accessories for girls should be color-coordinated with dress code colors or neutral.
Outlandish hairstyles will be considered inappropriate at the HOS’s discretion.

JEWELRY:
One small necklace, bracelet, ring, or watch.
Students are permitted to wear one pierced post or small loops, 1/2″ diameter or smaller earring per ear.

NAILS:
Girls may wear nail polish of any color.

SCOUT/ATHLETIC UNIFORMS:  Cub Scout, Brownie, Boy Scout and Girl Scout uniforms may be worn on meeting days. Athletic team uniforms may be worn on game days.

The following are not acceptable:

Torn or ripped clothing
No cargo shorts                                                                                                                       Overly loose or tight clothing (no larger than 1 size larger or smaller than normal         fitting)
Underwear visible at any time
Clothing that features alcohol, drug, or gang references
Spaghetti strap tops unless sleeved shirt worn underneath
Slip-on shoes. Sandals, clogs, etc. must have a strap that securely fastens the shoe         to the foot
No cowboy boots, open-toed or open-heeled shoes, platform shoes not allowed
Sleeveless items
No shirts that expose any part of the midsection are permitted                                      Jeans & t-shirts
Clothing that is disruptive to the learning environment
Hat of any kind inside the building

DRESS CODE ENFORCEMENT       

Compliance with the dress code is mandatory. Violations of the dress code will result in disciplinary actions against the student in the following manner:
(a)   Grades K-5 – Students with a dress code violation may be called to the office to speak with the administrator. Parents may be called to bring the proper clothing to school. After repeated offenses, the HOS will schedule a conference with the parents to discuss the situation and seek a remedy to the problem. Further action will be taken if necessary.

(b) Grades 6-8 – If a middle school student arrives at school improperly dressed, the teacher will note it when attendance is taken and the teacher will complete a conduct mark sheet for the student and parent to sign. After three conduct marks the director will schedule a conference with the parents to discuss the situation and seek a remedy to the problem. Further action will be taken if necessary.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

Search of a student and his/her possessions may be conducted at any time the student is under the jurisdiction of the Board of Directors and if there is a reasonable suspicion that the student is in violation of law or school rules. A search may also be conducted to protect the health and safety of others. All searches may be conducted with or without a student’s consent.

Students may be provided lockers, desks, and other equipment in which to store materials. It should be clearly understood that this equipment is the property of the school and may be searched at any time, with or without unreasonable suspicion that a student has violated the law or school rules. Locks are to prevent theft, not to prevent searches. Any and all property of the school may be subject to random or for-cause search. Anything that is found in the course of a search that may be evidence of a violation of school rules or the law may be taken and held or turned over to the police. The school reserves the right not to return items which have been confiscated. In the course of any search, students’ privacy rights will be respected regarding any items that are not illegal or against school policy.

All computers located in classrooms, labs and offices of TPAAK are TPAAK’s property and are to be used by students, where appropriate, solely for educational purposes. TPAAK retains the right to access and review all electronic, computer files, databases, and any other electronic transmissions contained in or used in conjunction with the TPAAK’s computer system, and electronic mail. Students should have no expectation that any information contained on such systems is confidential or private. Review of any information on school computers may be done by TPAAK with or without the student’s knowledge or permission.

HEALTH IMMUNIZATION

Each student must have the immunizations required by law or have an authorized waiver. Waivers are issued consistent with state law, and may include parent or guardian objection to an immunization for good cause, including religious conviction, or upon certification by a physician that immunization against any disease is medical contra indicated. If a student does not have the necessary immunization or waiver, the HOS may remove the student from school and require compliance within fourteen days of enrollment in accordance with State Law.

INJURY AND ILLNESS

All parents are required to supply Address, Telephone Number and Health Information for emergency procedures when a child is ill. This information helps the school decide what to do when a child becomes sick or has an accident while in school. Parents are required to keep this information up to date, especially telephone numbers for home and work.
Enrollment-Emergency cards are sent home at the beginning of each school year. PARENTS ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE SCHOOL WHEN ANY OF THE INFORMATION ON THE EMERGENCY CARD CHANGES.

All injuries must be reported to a teacher, aide or the office. If the injury is minor, the student will be treated and returned to class. If medical attention is required, the office will attempt to contact the parent. If the parent cannot be contacted, emergency numbers will be used. A student who becomes ill during the school day should request permission from his/her teacher or aide to go to the office. The office will determine whether or not the student will remain in school. No student will be released from school without proper parental permission.

USE OF MEDICATIONS

TPAAK’s policy allows medication to be administered by TPAAK employees who have completed “Medication Administration Training” with the RN on duty under the following conditions:

1.  Parents must have a medication permission form completed to administer medication. DOCTOR’S INSTRUCTIONS INCLUDING STUDENT’S NAME, NAME OF MEDICATION, DOSAGE, TIME OF ADMINISTRATION, POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS AND DOCTOR’S SIGNATURE ARE NEEDED TO COMPLETE THIS FORM. This form must be dated and signed by the student’s parent/guardian. It will be the student’s responsibility to report to the office at the proper time for medication.

2.  New medical request forms must be submitted each school year and as necessary for changes in medication orders.

3.  Medication must be in ORIGINAL CONTAINER and have affixed label including the Student’s Name, Name of Medication, Dosage, Route of Medication, and Time of Administration.

4.  It is REQUIRED that the medication and the signed permission forms BE BROUGHT TO SCHOOL BY THE PARENT/GUARDIAN.

5.  Non-prescription medications, such as, Tylenol, cold remedies, etc. will be treated as prescription medication as in #1 above. Parents may, at their choice, come to school and administer medication to their child. Cough Drops may be allowed with written parental permission at the discretion of the HOS.

6.  Students are NOT permitted to keep medication of ANY KIND on their person, in their lunch boxes, or in their desks unless prior permission has been given as outlined in #7.

7.  If the student is authorized by his/her physician and has the written approval of the parent or guardian to carry a new asthma rescue inhaler and self-medicate, all of the steps 1-3 will be required. The physician’s written approval shall also include instructions that outline procedures that school personnel should follow in the event the asthma medication does not produce the expected relief for the child. Any severe adverse reactions that may occur due to the child using the inhaler should be reported to the physician, and any severe adverse reactions that may occur to another child, for whom the inhaler is not prescribed, should such a child receive a dose of the medication, and at least one emergency telephone number for contacting the physician in an emergency, and at least one emergency telephone number for contacting the parent or guardian in an emergency, and any other special instruction from the physician.

8.  If a student shows unsafe or irresponsible behavior, the right to self-medicate may be revoked.

TPAAK retains the discretion to reject requests for administration of medicine.

CHILD EXCLUSION POLICY

·   If your child is not feeling well in the morning, take temperature before coming to school
·   If your child is experiencing severe, uncontrollable coughing, wheezing or having difficulty breathing  he/she should stay home
·   If child has diarrhea, or severe stomach pains he/she should stay home
·   If your child is experiencing behavior changes, persistent crying, difficulty breathing, lack of energy or other signs suggesting illness he/she should stay home
·   If your child does not feel well enough to participate in usual school activities and requires more attention than school staff can provide please keep them home
·   If your child has any disease that has special implications for public health due to high potential for it to spread or seriousness.
·   If your child has severe itching of the body or scalp

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

·        Practice good hand washing, and hygiene at home
·        Keep away from other infected people
·        Practice good nutrition
·        Sneeze and cough into your elbow turned away from others

Keep surfaces clean, and disinfect when soiled

Your child may return to school when they have been free of their fever and symptoms without medication for 24 hours.

CONTROL OF CASUAL-CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND PESTS

Because a school has a high concentration of people, it is necessary to take specific measures when the health and/or safety of the group are at risk. The school’s professional staff has the authority to remove or isolate a student who has been ill, has an undiagnosed rash or has been exposed to a communicable disease or highly transient pest, such as lice. Specific diseases include: diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep infection, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella, pink eye, impetigo and other conditions indicated by Local and State Health Departments.

If a child contracts a Communicable Disease, the office should be notified as to the nature of the illness and the student should not return to school until a Physician gives him/her written permission to do so. This is a means of protecting all children.

Any removal will only be for the contagious period as specified in TPAAK’s administrative guidelines. Parents of children in a classroom which has a communicable disease reported will be notified, at the discretion of the HOS, by way of a “Health Alert.”

CONTROL OF NONCASUAL-CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

In the case of non-casual contact communicable diseases, the school still has the obligation to protect the safety of the staff and students. The school will seek to keep students and staff persons in school unless there is definitive evidence to warrant exclusion.                                                                                                                             Non-casual contact communicable diseases include sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), ARC-AIDS Related Complex, HIV (Human‑immunodeficiency), Hepatitis B, and other diseases that may be specified by state law, or applicable regulation. As required by Federal law, parents will be requested to have their child’s blood checked for HIV, HBV, and other blood-borne pathogens when the child has bled at school and students or staff members have been exposed to the blood. Any testing is subject to laws protecting confidentiality.

HEAD LICE

Any child found to have head lice will be temporarily excluded from school until ALL NITS AND/OR LIVE LICE are removed from the child’s head. The excluded child will be rechecked for head lice by the school prior to being allowed to return to class. As a precaution, the child will be rechecked within 10 days after returning to class for possible re-infestation

DISCIPLINE CODE OF CONDUCT

STUDENT RULES OF CONDUCT

A major component of the educational program at T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge is to prepare students to become responsible workers and citizens by learning how to conduct themselves properly and in accordance with established standards.
The Student Rules of Conduct apply at all times on school owned or controlled property, including busses or other school transportation vehicles owned, controlled, or utilized by District students, at school activities and functions, and when students are otherwise under the authority of school personnel. These Rules also apply to conduct by a student that occurs off of property owned or controlled by the school but that is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on property owned or controlled by the school. Finally, these Rules also apply to misconduct by a student, regardless of where it occurs, that is directed at a school official or employee or the property of a school official or employee.
The HOS is deemed to have all the power and authority accorded a principal and a superintendent in a traditional public school. With regard to conduct, the Board of Directors is deemed to have all of the power and authority accorded a board of education in a traditional public school district .A copy of this policy shall be posted in a central location in the school and made available to students upon request.

EXPECTED BEHAVIORS

Each student shall be expected to:
A.  Abide by national, State, and local laws as well as the rules of the school;
B.  Respect the civil rights of others;
C.  Act courteously to adults and fellow students;
D.  Be prompt to school and attentive in class;
E.  Complete assigned tasks on time and as directed;
F.  Help maintain a school environment that is safe, friendly, and productive;
G.  Act at all times in a manner that reflects pride in self, family, and in school;
H.  Follow school-wide rules and expectations :

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

The Board of Directors has adopted the following Student Code of Conduct. The Code includes the types of misconduct that will subject a student to disciplinary action and the procedures for implementing disciplinary action.
It is the school staff’s responsibility to provide a safe and orderly learning environment. History has shown that certain student actions are not compatible with a “safe” and “orderly” environment. Discipline is within the sound discretion of the School’s staff and administration. The following chart provides examples of major areas that could result in disciplinary action. An explanation of each behavior and possible consequence follows the list. The absence of a behavior or any specific action from the list does not mean that such conduct does not violate the discipline code or cannot be disciplined.  Activities deemed illegal may include law enforcement involvement.

EXPLANATION OF TERMS APPLYING TO THE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Each of the behaviors described below may subject the student to disciplinary action including suspension and/or expulsion from school.
1.  Conduct Involving drugs
The school is a “Drug Free” zone within the boundaries of the school safety zone established by State law as well as to any school activity and transportation. This means that any activity such as sale, use, distribution, or use of drugs, alcohol, fake drugs, steroids, inhalants, or look-alike drugs is prohibited. If caught, the student could be suspended or expelled and law enforcement officials may be contacted. Sale also includes the possession or sale of over-the-counter or prescription medication to another student.
2.  Use of Breath-Test Instruments
The HOS or assistant administrator or designee may arrange for a breath test for blood-alcohol to be conducted on a student whenever s/he has individualized reasonable suspicion to believe that a student has consumed an alcoholic beverage.  Imposition of a breath test is at the discretion of the School, and discipline may be imposed without a breath test upon other evidence of use of alcohol. If a student refuses to take the test, s/he will be advised that such denial will be considered an admission of alcohol use with the consequent discipline invoked. The student will then be given a second opportunity to take the test.
3.  Use of tobacco
The school prohibits the sale, distribution, use or possession of any form of tobacco during school time or at any school activity, including field trips. This prohibition also applies when going to and from school. Violations will result in suspension or expulsion.
4.  Student disorder/demonstration
Students will not be denied their rights to freedom of expression, but the disruption of any school activity is not allowed.
5.  Possession of a weapon
A weapon includes conventional objects like a firearm, guns, pellet guns, BB Guns, ammunition, knives, or club type implements. It may also include any toy that is presented as a real weapon or reacted to as a real weapon. A “firearm” has the same meaning as provided in the “Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994,” 108 Stat. 270, 20 USC 8001(a)2. A “knife” is any cutting instrument consisting of a sharp blade over one inch long.   Possession of a weapon may subject a student to suspension or expulsion. It makes no difference whether or not the weapon belongs to someone else, unless the student can provide convincing evidence that the weapon was placed in the student’s possession without his/her knowledge. If it can be confirmed that a weapon was brought on TPAAK property by a student other than the one who possessed the weapon, that student shall also be subject to the same disciplinary action.

A student may be expelled from school, if she/he brings onto or has in his/her possession on school property or at a school-related activity any of the following:
1.  Any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas including bombs, grenades, rockets, missiles, mines, or device that can be converted into such a destructive item
2.  A knife (any object consisting of a blade, no matter how long)
3.  Any similar objects that are intended to invoke bodily harm or fear of bodily harm (e.g. air gun, blow-gun, toy gun, etc.)
4.  Use of an object as a weapon
Any object that is used to threaten, harm, or harass another may be considered a weapon. This includes but is not limited to padlocks, pens, pencils, laser pointers, jewelry and so on. This violation may subject a student to suspension or expulsion.
5.  Knowledge of Dangerous Weapons or Threats of Violence
Students are required to report knowledge of dangerous weapons or threats of violence to the HOS. Failure to report such knowledge may subject the student to discipline.
6.  Purposely setting a fire or attempting to set fire
Anything, such as fire, that endangers school property and its occupants will not be tolerated. Arson will subject the student to suspension or expulsion.
7.  Physically assaulting a staff member/student/person associated with TPAAK
Physical assault at school against a TPAAK employee, student, volunteer, or contractor, or another, which may or may not cause injury may result in charges being filed and subject the student to suspension or expulsion. Physical assault is defined as “causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another through force or violence.”
8.  Verbally threatening a staff member/student/person associated with TPAAK.
Verbal assault at school against a TPAAK employee, volunteer, or contractor or making bomb threats or similar threats directed at a school building, property, or a school‑related activity will be considered verbal assault. Verbal threats or assault may result in suspension and expulsion. Verbal assault is a communicated intent to inflict physical or other harm on another person, with a present intent and ability to act on the threat.
9.  Extortion
Extortion is the use of threat, intimidation, force, or deception to take, or receive something from someone else. Violations of this rule will result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion.
10.  Gambling
Gambling includes casual betting, betting pools, organized-sports betting, and any other form of wagering. Students who bet on an activity in which they are involved may also be banned from that activity. Violations of this rule could result in suspension or expulsion.
11.  Falsification of schoolwork, identification, forgery
Forgery of hall passes and excuses as well as false I.D.’s are forms of lying and are not acceptable. Plagiarism and cheating are also forms of falsification and subject the student to academic penalties as well as disciplinary action. Violations of this rule could result in suspension or expulsion.
12.  False alarms, false reports, and bomb threats
A false emergency alarm, report or bomb threat endangers the safety forces that are responding, the citizens of the community, and persons in the building. Violations of this rule could result in suspension or expulsion. The HOS may expel a student from school for a period of up to one year for making a bomb threat to a school building or to any premises at which a school activity is occurring at the time of the threat.
13.  Explosives
Explosives, fireworks, and chemical-reaction objects such as smoke bombs, pipe bombs, bottle bombs, small firecrackers, and poppers are forbidden and dangerous. Violations of this rule could result in suspension or expulsion.
14.  Trespassing
Although schools are public facilities, the law does allow the school to restrict access on school property. If a student has been removed, suspended, or expelled, the student is not allowed on school property without authorization of the HOS. In addition, students may not trespass onto school property at unauthorized times or into areas of the school determined to be inappropriate.  Violations of this rule could result in suspension or expulsion.
15.  Theft
When a student is caught stealing school or someone’s property, s/he will be disciplined and may be reported to law enforcement officials. Students are encouraged not to bring anything of value to school that is not needed for learning without prior authorization from the HOS or teacher. The school is not responsible for personal property. Theft may result in suspension or expulsion.
16.  Disobedience
School staff is acting “in loco parentis,” which means they are allowed, by law, to direct a student, as would a parent. This applies to all staff, not just teachers assigned to a student. If given a reasonable direction by a staff member, the student is expected to comply. Chronic disobedience can result in suspension or expulsion.
17.  Damaging property

Vandalism and disregard for school property will not be tolerated. Violations could result in suspension or expulsion, and repayment to the School of the costs of repair or replacement of the damaged property.
18.  Persistent absence or tardiness
Attendance laws require students to be in school all day or have a legitimate excuse. It is also important to establish consistent attendance habits in order to succeed in school and in the world-of-work. Excessive absence could lead to suspension or expulsion from school.
19.  Unauthorized use of school or private property
Students are expected to obtain permission to use any school property or any private property located on school premises. Any unauthorized use shall be subject to disciplinary action. This includes use of the Internet and communication networks in a manner not sanctioned by policy and administrative guideline. Violations of this rule could result in suspension or expulsion.
20.  Refusing to accept discipline
The school may use informal discipline to prevent the student from being removed from school. When a student refuses to accept the usual discipline for an infraction, the refusal can result in a sterner suspension or expulsion.
21.  Aiding or abetting violation of school rules
If a student assists another student in violating any school rule, they will be disciplined and may be subject to suspension or expulsion. Students are expected to resist peer pressure and exercise sound decision-making regarding their behavior.
22.  Displays of affection
Students demonstrating affection between each other are personal and not meant for public display. This includes touching, hugging, kissing, petting, or any other contact that may be considered sexual in nature. Such behavior may result in suspension from school or possibly expulsion.
23.  Possession of electronic equipment
Most electronic equipment necessary in school is supplied by the school. Students are not allowed to bring personal electronic devices including but not limited to MP3 players, iPods, portable TV’s, electronic toys, cellular phones, laser pens, and the like without the permission of HOS. The property will be confiscated and disciplinary action will be taken. Violations of this rule could result in suspension or expulsion.  If an electronic device or cell phone MUST be brought to school, they will need to be given to the teacher at the beginning of the day and can be collected from the teacher at the end of the day.
24.  Violation of individual school/classroom rules
Each learning environment has different rules for students. Individual rules are for the safe and orderly operation of that environment. While every attempt will be made to teach/re-teach appropriate behavior, persistent violations of rules could result in suspension or expulsion.
25.  Disruption of the educational process
Any actions or manner of dress that interferes with school activities or disrupts the educational process is unacceptable. Such disruptions also include delay or prevention of lessons, assemblies, field trips, athletic, and performing arts events.
26.  Harassment/Bullying/Hazing
Harassment of students is prohibited, and will not be tolerated. This includes inappropriate conduct by other students as well as any other person in the school environment, including employees, Board members, parents, guests, contractors, vendors and volunteers. This policy applies to all activities on school property and to all school sponsored activities whether on or off school property.
Harassment is defined as inappropriate conduct that is repeated enough, or serious enough, to negatively impact a student’s educational, physical or emotional well being. This would include harassment based on any of the legally protected characteristics, such as sex, race, color, national origin, religion, height, weight, marital status or disability. This policy, however, is not limited to these legal categories and includes any harassment that would negatively impact students.
Any student that believes s/he has been/or is the victim of harassment should immediately report the situation to the teacher and/or HOS. Every student should, and every staff member must report any situation that they believe to be improper harassment of a student. Reports may be made to those identified above.
If the investigation finds harassment occurred it will result in prompt and appropriate remedial action. This may include up to expulsion for students, up to discharge for employee, exclusion for parents, guests, volunteers and contractors, and removal from any officer position and/or a request to resign for Board members. Retaliation against any person for complaining about harassment, or participating in a harassment investigation, is prohibited. Suspected retaliation should be reported in the same manner as harassment. Intentionally false harassment reports, made to get someone in trouble, are also prohibited.
Confidentiality
Every reasonable effort will be made to maintain confidentiality during the investigation process. However, a proper investigation will, in some circumstances, require the disclosure names and allegations.
Notification
Notice of this policy will be annually, and discussed with students, as well as incorporated into the teacher, student and parent/guardian handbooks. All new hires of TPAAK will be required to review and sign off on this policy and the related complaint procedure.
27.  Possession of a firearm, Arson, and Criminal Sexual Conduct
The Board shall expel any student who possesses a dangerous weapon in a weapon-free school zone or commits either arson or criminal sexual conduct in the TPAAK building or on TPAAK property, including school buses and other school transportation. A dangerous weapon is defined as “a knife with a blade over one [1] inch in length, pocket knife opened by a mechanical device, iron bar, or brass knuckles” or other devices designed to or likely to inflict bodily harm, including, but not limited to, air guns and explosive devices. Students with disabilities under IDEA or Section 504 shall be suspended or expelled only in accordance with Board Policy and Federal due process rights appropriate to students with disabilities.

CRIMINAL ACTS

Any student engaging in criminal acts at or related to the school may be reported to law enforcement officials as well as disciplined by the school. It is not considered double jeopardy (being tried twice for the same crime), when school rules and the law are violated. Students should be aware that state law allows that school officials, teachers and appropriate law enforcement officials be notified when a student of TPAAK is involved in crimes related to physical violence, gang related acts, illegal possession of a controlled substance, analogue or other intoxicants, trespassing, property crimes, including but not limited to theft and vandalism, occurring in the school as well as in the community.

SAFETY CONCERNS

Students should not use roller blades, bicycles, skateboards scooters, or any other form of personal transportation device in school hallways or TPAAK pedestrian traffic areas. Exceptions may be made to reasonably accommodate students with mobility impairments. Use of any means of travel within buildings and on grounds by other than generally accepted practices where appropriate is prohibited. Students violating this expectation will be subject to disciplinary action.

PROFANITY

Any behavior or language, which in the judgment of the staff or administration, is considered to be obscene, disrespectful, vulgar, profane and/or violates community held standards will be subject to disciplinary action.

SECRET SOCIETIES/GANG ACTIVITY

The school administration and the TPAAK Board desires to keep the school and students free from the threats or harmful influence of any groups or gangs which advocate drug use, violence, or disruptive behavior. The principal or designee shall maintain continual, visible supervision of school premises, school vehicles, and school-related activities to deter gang intimidation of students and confrontations between members of different gangs.

TPAAK shall establish open lines of communication with local law enforcement authorities so as to share information and provide mutual support in this effort. TPAAK administration shall provide in-service training to help staff members identify gangs and gang symbols, recognize early manifestations of disruptive activities, and respond appropriately to gang behavior. Staff members shall be informed about conflict management techniques and alerted to intervention measures and community resources which may help students.

GANG SYMBOLS

The TPAAK school board prohibits the presence on school premises, in school vehicles, and at school-related activities of any apparel, jewelry, accessory, notebook, or manner of grooming which, by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark, or any other attribute, denotes membership in gangs which advocate drug use, violence, or disruptive behavior. This policy shall be applied at the principal’s discretion after consultation with the school board as the need for it arises.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

It is important to remember that the school’s rules apply going to and from school, at school, on school property, at school-sponsored events, and on school transportation. In some cases, a student can be suspended from school.
Ultimately, it is the HOS’s responsibility to keep things orderly. In all cases, TPAAK shall attempt to make corrective action prompt and equitable and to have the corrective action match the severity of the incident.

Physical violence, defiance, bullying, racial comments and swearing are not acceptable behaviors and will result in either an in-school, after-school or out-of-school suspension, depending upon the severity of the incident. Any student acquiring 3 in-school or after-school suspensions within any 4-month period will result in a pre-expulsion hearing. And student acquiring 3 out-of-school suspensions during any 4-month period will result in expulsion actions.

DEFINITIONS

·         Verbal Reprimand/Warning
·         Detentions – Up to an hour before or after school on a day school is in session under the supervision of school personnel. Parent notification and acknowledgment will be made prior to detention (including lunch detentions).
·         In-School Suspension – Isolation from peers (one hour to all day). Daily class work will be made available. Credit will be given for all complete work. Removal from co-curricular activities may occur.
·         Out-of-School Suspension – Removal from school up to 10 days. Removal from extra-curricular activities. Suspension is considered an unauthorized absence.
·         Expulsion – The HOS with Board approval may expel a student from TPAAK.
Two types of corrective action are possible, informal corrective action and formal discipline.
Informal Corrective Action
Informal correction action takes place within the school. It includes:
·         counsel with student
·         remove certain privileges
·         arrange student and/or parent conference
·         behavior contract
·         change of seating or location
·         recess, lunch-time, before or after-school detention
·         in-school restriction
Detentions
A student may be detained after school or asked to come to school early by a teacher, after giving the student and his/her parents one (1) day’s notice. The student’s parents are responsible for transportation.
Formal Discipline
Formal discipline removes the student from school. It includes emergency removal for up to seventy-two (72) hours, suspension for up to ten (10) school days, and expulsion from school. Suspensions and expulsions may carry over into the next school year. Removal for less than one (1) school day without the possibility of suspension or expulsion may not be appealed. Suspension and expulsion can be appealed.
Discipline of Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities are entitled to the rights and procedures afforded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (I.D.E.A.) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.), or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

PROCEDURES FOR SUSPENSION, EXPULSION
AND EMERGENCY REMOVAL

A. Suspension
Suspension is defined as the denial to a student for a school period of at least one (1) but no more than ten (10) school days. After alleged misconduct becomes known to school administrators, the student shall be given notice of the possibility of suspension and the reasons for such action by the HOS or assistant administrator. The student will be given an opportunity to appear at an informal hearing before the HOS or assistant administrator, or designee, to challenge the reasons for the possible suspension or to otherwise explain his/her actions.
Within one school day after the time of a student’s suspension, the HOS or assistant administrator, or designee shall notify the student and his/her parent, guardian. The notice shall specify the duration of the suspension and the reasons therefore.
B. Expulsion
Expulsion is defined as the denial to the student, for a period of more than ten (10) school days. (except for circumstances identified below), of permission to attend school and to take part in any school function. Prior to any expulsion, the HOS shall give the student and his/her parent, guardian or custodian written notice of the possibility of expulsion and shall provide the student and his/her parent, guardian or custodian with an opportunity to appear in person before the HOS or designee and challenge the reasons for the possible expulsion or otherwise explain the student’s actions.
The notice shall include the reasons for the possible expulsion, notification of the right of the student, guardian, custodian or their representative to appear before the HOS or designee to hear and to challenge the reasons for the possible expulsion or otherwise to explain the student’s actions, and notification of the time and place to appear. The HOS shall initiate expulsion proceedings pursuant to Colorado Statute with respect to any student who has committed an act warranting expulsion under the School’s policy regarding expulsion even if the student has withdrawn from school for any reason after the incident that gives rise to the hearing but prior to the hearing or decision to impose the expulsion
Suspensions and expulsions may be carried over into the following school year. When students are expelled for more than twenty (20) school days or for any period of time that extends into the next school year, the HOS shall give the expelled student(s) the names, addresses and telephone numbers of public and private agencies that work toward improving student attitudes and behavior.
The HOS and Board is authorized to expel a student from school for a period not to exceed one year for committing an act that is a criminal offense when committed by an adult and that results in serious physical harm to persons as defined in Colorado Statute or serious physical harm to property as defined in Division (A)(6) of Section 2901.01 of the Revised Code while the student is at school, on any other property owned or controlled by the Board, or at an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other school program or activity not located either in a school or property owned or controlled by the School. The expulsion period may be reduced on a case-by-case basis for such reasons as the age and mental capacity of the student, the student’s prior disciplinary record, the degree of remorse shown, and any other fact deemed mitigating by the HOS under the particular circumstances.
Whenever a student is suspended or expelled for possession or use of drugs or a firearm, knife, or other weapon, the HOS shall notify the CSI.
C. Emergency Removals
Emergency Removal is defined as the denial to a student whose presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process taking either within a classroom or elsewhere on the school premises, for a period not exceeding seventy-two (72) hours, of permission to attend school and to take part in any school function. If a student is removed under this subparagraph, written notice of the reason(s) for the removal and written notice of the hearing to be held regarding the removal shall be given to the student as soon as practicable prior to the hearing. The hearing must be held within seventy-two (72) hours from the time the initial removal is ordered.
This procedure shall not and need not be followed in cases when a student is removed from one or more curricular or extracurricular activities for a period of less than twenty-four (24) hours and is not subject to suspension or expulsion.
D.  Disciplinary Removals
Disciplinary Removal is an action less severe than suspension, expulsion or emergency removal and is defined as the removal of the student from a class or other curricular for less then twenty-four (24) hours.
1.  A student may be removed from a class or other curricular activity where the student engages in conduct which tends to interfere with or disrupt the class or curricular activity or for a violation of code or school rules and regulations.
2.  When a student is removed from a curricular activity for more than twenty-four (24) hours, the student shall be given notice of the removal and the reasons for the removal. The student will be given an opportunity to appear before the HOS or assistant administrator, or designee, to hear the reasons for the removal and to explain his/her actions.
E.  Other Matters
1.  The student and his/her parent, guardian, or custodian may be requested to come to school for a conference with the HOS or assistant administrator, or designee. This conference shall normally be held no later than the date the student is scheduled to return to school from a suspension or expulsion.
2.  The policy of the School is that out of school suspension or expulsion means that a student will not be allowed to make up work while serving the suspension or expulsion. However, a student may, depending on circumstances, be allowed to return to school pending completion of a disciplinary appeal.
3.  Personnel employed by the School to direct, supervise, or coach a pupil activity program may prohibit a student from participating in that program for up to five school days for violation of school rules, violation of program standards. or other cause deemed sufficient by the School. The HOS or assistant administrator, or designee, may suspend a student from any particular or all extracurricular activities of the School for any extended period of time.

MEMORANDUM TO PARENTS REGARDING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS POLICY ON DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS

In accordance with Federal Law, the Board of Directors prohibits the use, possession, concealment, or distribution of drugs by students on school grounds, in school or school-approved vehicles, or at any school-related event. Drugs include any alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroid, controlled substance, or substance that could be considered a “look-a-like” controlled substance. Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all students. Any student who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, as specified in the student handbooks, up to and including expulsion from school. TPAAK will also notify law enforcement officials.
TPAAK is concerned about any student who is a victim of alcohol or drug abuse and will facilitate the process by which s/he receives help through programs and services available in the community. Students and their parents should contact the school Chief Administrative Officer or counseling office whenever such help is needed.

USE OF THE LIBRARY

Library books are among the most valuable assets of the school. Library books must be checked out and checked in appropriately. Students are held responsible for library books checked out to them. Students not returning books will be charged for the book replacement.

USE OF SCHOOL EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

Students must receive the permission of the teacher before using any equipment or materials in the classroom and the permission of the HOS to use any other school equipment or facility. Students will be held responsible for the proper use and safe‑keeping of any equipment or facility they are allowed to use. Outside individuals or organizations may request a Building Use Form from the school office.

VISITORS

Visitors, particularly parents, are welcome at TPAAK. For the safety of students and staff, ALL visitors MUST report to the office to sign in and pick up a visitor’s pass. Any visitor found in the building without signing in shall be reported to the HOS.
If a person wishes to confer with a member of the staff, he/she MUST call for an appointment prior to coming to the school in order to prevent any inconvenience. Any visitor, including a parent or guardian, failing to comply with the school’s visitor procedure or the direction of the HOS may have restrictions placed on visiting, up to and including prohibition from the premises. The HOS may utilize law enforcement officials in the enforcement of the visitor policy and the safety and security of the school. Students may not bring visitors to school without first obtaining permission from the HOS.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

TPAAK encourages volunteerism in the schools. Volunteers are important to our educational program. When parents volunteer in the school, they should be a positive role model for our students and follow all school rules. Volunteers are asked to sign in and out at the school office and obtain a visitor’s pass each time they are volunteering in the building.

PARENT TEACHER LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATION

The TPAAK PTLO (Parent Teacher Leadership Organization) was formed in November of 2005 by a group of parents interested in enhancing the school experience for students, teachers and parents. The PTLO Mission states;
“we are an advisory/support group made up of parents (and interested teachers and staff), formed to make recommendations to our school’s administrators for extracurricular activities and events to enhance our student’s school experience and to provide support and assistance to our school’s teachers.”
The officers of the PTLO include a President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Elections occur in the Spring, and each term of office is a maximum of 2 years.
Meetings occur monthly in the evenings.   Meetings will be posted on the website, published in the newsletter and in a Google email.
Standing Committees of the PTLO include:
·         Annual Events (Family Fun Night, Fall Family Festival)
·         Staff  Appreciation
·         Book Fair
·         Used Uniforms/School T-shirts, and Spirit Item sales
·         Special ‘Just for Fun’ Events
·         Our Friendship Fund for families/students experiences hardship
·         Playground
·         Spring Silent Auction,
·         Guest Speaker and Field Trips,
·          New Family Welcome Committee
·          Fundraising
We also have a Newsletter, Wish List, Website and Volunteer Coordinator, Labels and cartridges coordinators.
There are many ways to volunteer to support our school through the PTLO. It is only through each and every family’s contribution of time, talent and/or resources that our organization can have the most impact on our school. We need your help in many different capacities. Please inquire how you can make a difference in our school and organization!
For more information or to contact the PTLO:
www.ptlo-tpaak.org
president@ptlo-tpaak.org

HOW TO HELP TPAAK WITH FUNDRAISING IN YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE

By using designated school codes that have been assigned by various companies when you shop at their businesses, you can help TPAAK earn money for the PTLO, which will in turn be used to help teachers get more for your children to use to enhance their educational experience at TPAAK.  The following companies have “kick-back” monies available to our school based on a percentage of sales:  Target, Office Max, Office Depot, French Toast, and Land’s End.
TARGET-When you participate in the “Take Charge of Education” Program and apply for either a Target RED Card or Target REDCard Visa and designate our school code and/or name on your application, Target will give 1% of net sales back to TPAAK on purchases made at any Target store or at www.target.com or 0.5% of purchases made in other places where you use the card (Visa card only).  There are other benefits also associated with these cards that do not involve the school.  Details can be obtained at the Target website.  To apply for the card, you can either

Go to www.target.com/tcoe to get more information about the program and follow the links to apply for the card online, or
Go to any Target store and apply for the card there
When applying for the card(s), be sure to designate our school as “TR Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge” and/or use the following school ID number:  123894.

OFFICE MAX-When making select purchases from Office Max stores, from 1-877-OFFICEMAX, or from www.officemax.com, the business will give TPAAK various rewards for those purchases.  Details about the program can be found at www.officemaxperks.com.

When making these purchases, be sure to inform them of the following information at check-out:  Teacher ID #750666175 with the password of “ptlofr”.

OFFICE DEPOT-When you make select purchases from Office Depot, be sure to use the “5% Back to Schools Program”.  When you buy qualifying student school supplies (see the list at any store or call 1-800-GO-DEPOT), Office Depot will give TPAAK a merchandise card to get other supplies from the store that our teachers can use.

When making these purchases, be sure to inform them of the following information at check-out:  School ID #70215196.

ALBERTSONS – Albertsons Community Partners Program donates money every time you shop at Albertsons. The card is free and available at the front desk. The school receives 1% on the first $50,000 we spend, and 5% for everything over that per quarter.
FRENCH TOAST-When you purchase uniform attire that meets TPAAK’s dress code from either www.frenchtoast.com, from the French Toast Catalog, or from 1-800-FRENCHTOAST, this company will donate 5% of net sales back to TPAAK after our initial $2000, one-time, minimum sales quota is met.  A summary of TPAAK’s dress code is on file with this company, which can be viewed online or the customer representative can reference when you make your purchases, so that you know whether your selected items are appropriate to be worn at TPAAK or not.

Be sure to select our school from the drop-down menu if you order online and/or reference the following Source Code:  QS5SJXS.  The School Name is registered at this store as:  TR Paul Academy.

LAND’S END- When you purchase uniform attire that meets TPAAK’s dress code from www.landsend.com in the “school uniforms” department or from the Land’s End Catalog, Land’s End will donate 3% of net sales back to TPAAK.  A summary of TPAAK’s dress code is on file with this company, which can be viewed online or the customer representative can reference when you make your purchases, so that you know whether your selected items are appropriate to be worn at TPAAK or not.

Be sure to use the following:  Preferred School # 9001-2166-6.

MORNING FRESH – Morning Fresh milk donates 5 cents for every cap we turn in. So save your caps, and place them in the collection container in the foyer of the school.
RECYCLING – You can also support the school by recycling cell phones, batteries, and ink cartridges. There are kiosks in the foyer of the school for each of these.
LABELS- Save the following labels to support various PTLO and school needs. Boxtop, Campbells, Tyson and Nestle PureLife Water. There are collection containers for each of these in the foyer of the school.
GOODSEARCH – GoodSearch.com is the search engine powered by Yahoo! That makes a donation to our school for every search.   Please make GoodSearch your homepage or add it to your toolbar by going to www.goodsearch.com. Every time you search the web, you can make money for TPAAK!

If you become aware of any other programs you feel would benefit TPAAK in a similar manner, please let a PTLO member know about it so that enrollment can be investigated and pursued.   Watch for Google Emails with any other programs the school is participating in.

CURRICULUM/ACADEMICS

Our Curriculum:
TPAAK uses the best available age-appropriate, research-based materials in the classroom. Our curriculum is designed to teach mastery of essential skills in each subject area and to foster critical thinking.
Elementary:
Language Arts: Daily classes using SRA/McGraw-Hill, Open Court
Math: Daily classes using SRA/McGraw-Hill Real Math
Science: Daily classes using Harcourt-Brace
Social Studies: Daily classes using Mosaica, Paragon
The Arts, Spanish and Physical Education: Rotating classes integrated with Mosaica, Paragon

Middle School:
Language Arts: Prentice Hall Literature
Math: Glencoe: Impact Math
Science: Holt Science and Technology
Social Studies: Mosaica Paragon

Grading System:
The academic year is divided into four quarters. Each quarter is approximately ten weeks in length. A letter grading system is used. Grades are based on class work, homework, class participation, quizzes and tests. A student’s attendance in school and/or tardiness may also affect their grade.

Late Homework:
TPAAK students are expected to turn all class work and homework in. It is expected that class work and homework will be turned in at the time designated by the teacher. All work turned in the following school day after it was due will receive a 25% grade deduction, work received two days after will receive a 50% deduction. All work received three days or after will be marked as a “0” in the teacher’s grade book. This does not apply to work assigned during excused absences.

TPAAK Grading Scale

A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 60-69%
F = Below 60%

REPORT CARDS

·         Report cards will be printed and distributed at the end of each quarter.
·         Students not completing course work by the end of a grading period will receive an “I” for incomplete. An incomplete will become an “F” if those issues surrounding the incomplete are not resolved with the student’s teacher(s) within three school days after the quarter ends. In those rare cases where a student is under the care of a physician for a serious illness, additional weeks will then be granted to complete all course work, including tests and semester exams, as determined by the student’s teacher and the HOS/Principal. If the work is not completed in the determined length of time, the grade becomes an “F”.
·         Progress reports may be issued at the mid-point of each quarter. Parent/Teacher conferences may serve as the progress report for designated quarters.
·         Student progress can be monitored online by each parent daily by utilizing their Power School access code.

ACADEMIC TUTORING

If it is determined that a TPAAK student is a grade level or more behind in either language and/or reading skills or math skills, tutoring will be made available through the after school tutoring program.

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

If a student decides to withdraw from school for any reason, the student must follow the checkout procedure and complete a withdrawal form. All outstanding fines and fees must be paid prior to the student’s departure.

STUDENT ASSESSMENT

To measure student progress, students will be tested in accordance with State standards and TPAAK policy. Colorado Proficiency tests are administered once per academic year subject to change by the Colorado Department of Education. Parents will be informed two weeks prior to the State established testing dates.
Additional group tests, such as, the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and Scantron will be administered in the fall and/or spring to monitor progress and determine educational mastery level. These tests are used to help the staff determine instructional needs. Classroom tests will be used to assess student progress and assign grades. These are selected or prepared by teachers to assess how well the students have achieved specific objectives.

PROMOTION, PLACEMENT, AND RETENTION

The Board of Directors recognizes that the personal, social, and academic growth of children will vary and they should be placed in the educational setting most appropriate to their needs at the various stages of their growth.
Currently enrolled students will be promoted to the succeeding grade level when they have, in the opinion of the professional staff, achieved the instructional objectives set for the present grade and demonstrated the degree of social and emotional maturity necessary for a successful learning experience in the next grade.
Decisions regarding a student’s promotion and/or placement will be determined on an individual basis.
No less than 2 measures from the following list will be used to make a determination regarding promotion and/or placement within TPAAK.
·         Academic report card
·         Attendance record (minimum standard of 93%)
·         ILS grade level assessment
·         MAPS Performance Test
·         Teacher recommendation
·         Personalized Student Achievement Plan
·         Regular participation in after-school tutorial
·         Students who are placed or retained below chronological grade level may be       required to participate in some or all of the following interventions.
·         After-school tutorial
·         Supplemental course work
·         Individualized assistance through the Response to Intervention Team

PLACEMENT    

Newly enrolled students will be evaluated and placed in the academically appropriate grade level based on available data from previous school(s) and possible performance on a standards-aligned course assessment for the previous grade. Final placement decisions must be approved by the Chief Administrative Officer.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION  

No student shall be promoted to the next grade level based upon age or other social reason unrelated to academic performance. To be promoted, students must meet or exceed established minimum standards for reading and math proficiency, as well as attendance. Any student more than 1 year below grade level may be retained in the current grade and may be required to participate in any or all of the above interventions.

CHAMPIONS – BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

For today’s busy parents, finding a safe, enriching environment where children can spend time before or after school is a big concern.  At Champions, we understand your needs and offer convenient and sensible options right at your neighborhood school.

Our structured program will be available on school days, starting at 6:30 am until first bell and again after school from dismissal until 6:15 pm.  During this time, we will provide stimulating activities in different concentrations, as well as spend quality time on homework and literacy enhancement.  The daily rates for this program will be $7 for morning care and $12 for afternoon care.  There will be a family registration fee of $50 due at the time of enrollment.  Families can enroll for $25 until June 30 using the code Waorco50reg1213!

Visit us at www.discoverchampions.com or call 800-350-5034 for more information on enrollment!

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKS

Before any student may enhance his/her school career through participation in the school’s computer network, s/he and his/her parents must sign an agreement, which defines the conditions under which the student may participate. Failure to abide by all of the terms of the agreement may lead to termination of the student’s computer account and possible disciplinary action consistent with the student code of conduct and referral to law enforcement authorities. The School retains the right to review and monitor computer equipment and networks, and users of School computer equipment or networks should have no expectation of privacy.
The use of the Network is a privilege, which may be revoked by TPAAK at any time and for any reason. Appropriate reasons for revoking privileges include, but are not limited to, the altering of system software or the placing of unauthorized information, computer viruses or harmful programs on or through the computer system in either public or private files or messages. TPAAK reserves the right to remove files, limit or deny access, and refer the student for other disciplinary actions.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT – SECTION 504

The American’s with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) requires the school to ensure that no individual will be discriminated against on the basis of a disability. This protection applies not just to the student but also to all individuals.
Students with disabilities may be served within the regular education program with an accommodation plan developed by school staff. Parents, who believe their child may have a disability that substantially limits the child’s ability to function properly in school, should contact the HOS at 970-226-2800 or kgriffin@tpaak.org. The school has adopted the Model Procedures for the Education of Children with Disabilities, and will serve its students with disabilities consistent with the model procedures.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

T.R. Paul Academy of Arts and Knowledge provides a special education program for students identified as having a disability defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
A student can access special education services through the proper evaluation and placement procedure. Parent involvement in this procedure is required. More importantly, the school wants the parent to be an active participant. To inquire about the procedure or programs, a parent should contact the HOS at 970-226-2800 or kgriffin@tpaak.org.
The school has adopted the model procedures for the education of children with disabilities, and will serve its students with disabilities consistent with the model procedures.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of the Rehabilitation Act
Students who are identified as disabled under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of the Rehabilitation Act will be promoted or retained in accordance with the IEP Team recommendations as documented in the Individual Education Plan. No student shall be retained due to an identified disability.

Limited English Proficient Students (LEP)
No student identified as Limited English Proficient shall be retained due to deficient English language skills.
Right to Appeal
Parents may appeal the retention and/or placement decision. The request and rationale for the appeal must be made in writing to the Chief Administrative Officer. This request should be made within 5 working days of receipt of notification of retention and/or placement. The Chief Administrative Officer will respond to the parent in writing within 5 working days of receipt of appeal

TR Paul Academy

Parent and Student Handbook Acknowledgement and Agreement

Yes, we have read and discussed the TR Paul Academy handbook. We agree to uphold these policies and do our best to follow the guidance they provide.

Please print name and relationship to student(s):

Name ________________________ Relationship _________________

Name ________________________ Relationship _________________

(Please note that additional adults may sign and date on the back if needed)

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Signature:

            _________________________________ Date  ____/____/____

            _________________________________ Date  ____/____/____

Please print student(s) name:

Name __________________________________

Name __________________________________

Name __________________________________

Name __________________________________

(Please note that additional students may sign and date on the back if needed)

Student(s) Signature      Date ____/____/____

            ___________________________________

            ___________________________________

            ___________________________________

            ___________________________________

Questions (optional)

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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