Big Pine Academy

 

2008 - 2009 Family / Student Handbook

 

 

 

School Day Schedule

 

7:40am                                    Teachers arrive

7:30am                        Students report to cafeteria

Breakfast and lunch money collected by Mr. Steve Cababe

7:55am                        Teachers pick up students

8:05am                        Considered Tardy

8:10am                        Pledge of Allegiance

 

11:15am - 11:45am     Three Year Old and VPK

11:25am - 11:55am     Kindergarten

11:30am – 12:00pm    1^st

11:35am - 12:05pm     2^nd

11:40am – 12:10pm    3^rd

11:45am – 12:15pm    4^th

11:45am – 12:15pm    5th

 

Monday                       Whole class enrichment

Tuesday                       Music

Wednesday                  Physical Education (sneakers needed)

Thursday                     Art

Friday                          Spanish

 

2:30pm                        All students are dismissed

Car riders and bus riders go to cafeteria

3 year old, and VPK aftercare to cafeteria

Kindergarten through Fifth Grade after to Boys & Girls Club room

Bus riders are picked up at 2:50pm from the cafeteria

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

School Uniform/Dress Code Policy

 

Research across the country has demonstrated that a simple, inexpensive unified dress code increases classroom achievement and school spirit, while at the same time decreases behavioral problems and absenteeism. Our unified dress code for this year is mandatory across all grades (P3, VPK, K-5).

 

Blue, Green, Yellow, Azalea (pink), Tangerine (orange) and white.

            (These shirts can be purchased through the school for $10.00)

Polo Shirts may be worn in any shade of blue, green, yellow or white.

 

Tops:               Polo collared shirts – school colors only, no stripes or designs

                        Short sleeve t-shirts with school logo

                        Sweatshirts – solid school colors

Bottoms:          Dark or khaki short/pants

                        No jeans, no designs

Shoes:              Closed-toe school shoes, preferably sneakers (No Healies, crocs, flip flops, etc.)

 

Tops:               Polo collared shirts – school colors only, no stripes or designs

                        Short sleeve t-shirts with school logo

                        Sweatshirts – solid school colors        

No tank tops, No midriffs   

Bottoms:          Dark or khaki shorts/skirts/skorts/pants

Solid school color jumper

No jeans, no designs

Shoes:              Closed-toe school shoes, preferably sneakers (No Healies, crocs, flip flops, etc.).

 

Every Friday: no school uniform required, unless requested via teacher for a field trip or special event.

 

 

 

If your child does not show up in proper uniform, the following steps may be taken:

A verbal warning may be given to the child.

He or She may be give a school t-shirt to wear, along with a bill or cover the cost of the shirt for purchase.

A note may be sent home stating how the child was out of uniform.

A call to the parent may be made requesting that a uniform be brought to the school for the child.

The child may be sent home.

 

General Policies

School is in session from 8:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Students are expected to be in attendance every day unless there are specific reasons for absences. Daily attendance is important to student progress. Absences totaling 15 days or more per school calendar year may be considered justifiable cause for possible retention.

 

On the day following an absence, the student is required to bring a note, signed by the parent or guardian, giving the date of the absence as well as the reason. Excused absences are limited to the following:

 

1.      Student illness

2.      Medical appointment

3.      Death in the family

4.      Observance of a religious holiday or service when mandated for all members of that faith

5.      School sponsored event or activity previously approved

6.      Other individual absences beyond the control of the parent or the student as approved by the principal or designee.

 

All other absences will be considered unexcused. A note is required on the day following an unexcused absence. If a student has 15 unexcused absences in a 90 day calendar-day period, it is possible that a parent conference with the principal will be asked for. Actions taken will be at the principal’s discretion due to amount of days absent and reason.

 

Students are expected to report to school in the cafeteria at 8:00 a.m. Students reporting after 8:05 a.m. must report to either office (Purple Door Upstairs or the Principal’s Office in Cafeteria) to get a tardy slip. Tardy students who show up to class with no slip will be sent to the office to get a slip. Any student arriving after 8:15 runs the risk of not having the school lunch of his or her choice as our lunch order must be placed to Sugarloaf by 8:15. If you know that your child is running late, you may call the office to be sure that a lunch will be ordered. Any student not having a lunch will not be denied lunch as we  will always have sandwich material, fruit and milk on hand for any and all students.

 

If, for any reason, it is necessary for a student to leave school early, parental consent is a necessity. Parents must come to the office to receive an “Early Dismissal” slip for students leaving early. Other than parents, only persons over 18 years old, who are listed en the “Emergency Contact card”, will be permitted to pick up students. All must show photo I.D. Telephone requests or notes requesting the student to be released may not be honored.

 

 

It is imperative that all parents provide telephone numbers where they can be reached during school hours. This number is needed for those occasions when illness or other student problems arise. It is also the parents’ responsibility to provide the names of all adults who can sign students out of school early. If the name is not on the emergency contact card, the student will not be released by the school. Only persons 18 years or older as specified on the emergency contact card can pick up students.

 

Supervision of students is provided by Big Pine Academy Staff from 7:30 a.m. through aftercare hours. A charge of $4.00 per hour is charged for after care. Parents are requested to arrange transportation for students to coincide with these times, or contact us for aftercare arrangement.

 

In cases of illness or injury, school personnel will determine if fire rescue should be called. If this is not necessary, parents will be called immediately.

 

Private car pick-up/drop off is in the parent parking circle. Only buses will be allowed to pick up students in staff parking circle. Students are to enter the cafeteria in the mornings when dropped off. If students are tardy, they are not to go directly to class. They are to come in through the cafeteria to get their late slips. Parents are welcome to park in the grass area of the parent parking circle. The only students who will not enter the cafeteria for morning drop off will be Miss Anita’s 3 year old students – those parents may deliver students directly to her classroom.

 
 

 

Any visitor to the school must report to the main office for a pass. Should a parent wish to visit their child’s classroom, they should contact the office with at least 24hours notice.

 

Parent/teacher conferences are naturally considered at every nine week grading period. Teacher will send home with your child’s report card a request for conference if deemed necessary. Should a parent need to request a teacher conference at any period outside of the above, they should request a teacher meeting through the office. The office staff shall pass on this request to the teacher who will individually contact the parent to set-up a meeting.

 

The Big Pine Academy follows the same academic school calendar as Monroe County / Sugarloaf Schools. Parents will be notified with at least one week notice as to early-out days and times of dismissal. Aftercare on these days is available through the Boy’s and Girl’s Club and through our staff at BPA.

 

Students at Big Pine Academy should always use their best behavior. They should be courteous, well mannered, and demonstrate concern for others. If students act in this way, we can only anticipate a year with few disciplinary problems.

 

Students at this school are governed by the Code of Student Conduct. This Code of Conduct, as contained within this handbook, outlines the rights and responsibilities of students enrolled at the BPA.

 

While students have the right to receive the best education possible and to be treated with dignity and respect, their behaviors may not infringe on the rights of others. Certain behaviors will not be tolerated. Unacceptable behaviors include, but are not limited to:

 

1.      disturbing the learning environment.

2.      disregarding requests of faculty and staff.

3.      profanity.

4.      smoking.

5.      vandalism.

6.      verbal and/or physical assault.

7.      possession of weapons of any kind.

8.      skipping school or individual classes.

9.      possession and/or use of drugs or illegal substances.

 

Big Pine Academy is a drug free zone. Students in violation of the above will be reported to the Department of Juvenile Justice.

 

Violation of the code of student conduct may result in a parent conference, indoor suspension, outdoor suspension, assignment to opportunity school, or other disciplinary action including expulsion.

 

No radios, tape recorders, beepers, or other electronic devices are allowed in school. School personnel will confiscate any such devices that are brought to school and turn them over to the principal, who will keep them until the student's parents retrieves the item(s).

 

Fire Drills will be held ten times each year. Students are to line up as quickly and calmly as possible. Teachers will direct students to appropriate evacuation routes. Each evacuation route is clearly posted in each classroom.

 

Students are advised to take particular care of valuables. Do not leave personal items and or money unattended. The school is not responsible for lost or misplaced items.

 

As a Charter School, the BPA follows and participates in all of the Monroe County School District’s emergency plans. Emergency school closings or evacuations can be found on the district web site (www.keysschools.com) or by listening to or watching the local media.

 

For eligible students with learning disabilities, the BPA will develop and implement an appropriate Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) in accordance with federal and state law and regulations including, but not limited to the American Disabilities Act (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1975 and the Florida’s Equity in Education Act.

 

BPA will utilize all the School District policies and procedures related to peripheral activities referral, ESE eligibility, IEP, development and placement. Children with handicap conditions and served in English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL) shall receive educational and related services in accordance with federal and state requirements.

 

Report cards will be issued each nine weeks. The final grade in an annual course will be an average of the four grading periods.

 

 

Academic grading scale (as mandated by the State of Florida)

                                    90–100                        A = Excellent

                                    80–89              B = Good

                                    70–79              C = Satisfactory

                                    60–69              D = minimal acceptable average

                                    0–68                F = Failure

 

Effort grading scale:

3   =  Successful progress

2   =  Progressing, on grade level

1   =  Area of Concern

— =  Not evaluated

 

At the mid-point of the nine week period (or at any time the student’s work falls below the satisfactory level) parents will be sent a Progress Report. Notes will be sent home advising the date and time of Conferences. You can wait for the conference time or a conference can be arranged by calling 872-1266 and asking to leave a message for the student’s teacher.

The BPA follows the Monroe County School District Student Progression Plan. The plan can be found online at www.keysschools.com

 

Home learning assignments are an integral part of the educational process and are to be returned by the next school day or upon the teacher’s request. Teachers use home learning as practice of skills taught in class, as well as extension of these skills.

 

Students are expected to make up any assignment missed when they are absent. This includes absences due to suspension.

 

FCAT scores affect students in third grade reading (for promotion purposes). Students in third grade must score in Level 2 or higher on FCAT reading to be promoted to fourth grade. There are also alternative assessments and good cause exceptions that apply.

 

Textbooks will be issued for all appropriate courses. Books are the property of the Big Pine Academy. As such, students must pay for any books which are lost or damaged.

 

Breakfast will be served from 7:30 – 7:55. Any student arriving after 7:55 will be unable to purchase a breakfast. Lunch will be served according to the following schedule:

 

11:15am - 11:45am     Three Year Old and VPK

11:25am - 11:55am     Kindergarten

11:30am – 12:00pm    1^st

11:35am - 12:05pm     2^nd

11:40am – 12:10pm    3^rd

11:45am – 12:15pm    4^th

11:45am – 12:15pm    5th

 

Full Price Meals                   Breakfast               Lunch Students     $1.75                     $2.25 Adults        $2.25                     $3.50

Reduced price meals                   Breakfast               Lunch Students      $0.30                    $0.40 A la carte    Milk  $0.75            Juice  $0.50

 

All students will be escorted to the cafeteria by their teachers. All students are to remain in the cafeteria during their lunch period. No students are allowed to walk around the school during the lunch period.

 

We will be implementing new breakfast and lunch money collection procedures for the 2008 - 2009 school year. In an effort to meet our financial obligations to the Sugarloaf Cafeteria in a timely manner we will be collecting monies upfront, in place of collecting monies after lunches have been served. We would like to limit the intake of cash for lunches to Monday mornings, if at all possible. We have purchased a new bill paying and accounting system. Monies for meals for a week or up to a month or several months at a time can be sent to school on Mondays. These monies will be tracked, and you will receive notification as your account runs low. We believe that this will allow us to better track our breakfast and lunch options with the Monroe County Schools, as well as better serve your children.

 

The BPA utilizes the Monroe County School District buses. Any student who resides outside a two mile exclusion zone of the school may ride the bus on an existing District route. All students wishing to ride the bus must fill out the questionnaire and turn it in with the enrollment package. You will receive a phone call in reference to the stop location and time. Families who reside within a two mile radius of the school and wish their child to ride a district bus must contact the BPA Executive Director for approval. Approval will be granted on a determination of family hardship.

 

Participation in assigned physical education classes is required on Wednesday. Students are expected to dress appropriately for outside activity. Girls are asked not to wear skirts or dresses. All students should wear tennis shoes. Accommodations shall be made for students with disabilities or medical conditions that prevent their active participation. In addition to the weekly physical education class, the governor of Florida has signed into law a mandate that every child will have 30 minutes of physical education per day. Administration and teachers are working to schedule this time into the daily schedule.

Our After School Care for students in grades 1-5 is provided by the Boys & Girls Club of America. There is a yearly charge of $10.00 to enroll in the program. After enrollment, you will receive a membership that includes any Boys & Girls Club in the United States. The daily charge is $7.00/day. Any checks written should be made out to the Boys & Girls Club (B&G Club). Hours are from 2:00pm-6:00pm. On early release days, the hours will start upon the release of the BPA students. The cost is still the same. Any questions should be directed to Dan Dombroski at 296-2258.

 

Students in grades Pre-School through Kindergarten may enroll for after school care through the Big Pine Academy. The cost will be $4.00 per hour, beginning at 2:30 and extending until 6:00. Students who are using the Monroe County School Bus System will be supervised by Big Pine Academy Staff. There is no charge for the time that the student’s are waiting for the bus.

 

There will be several field trips planned throughout the school year. A student must have a signed permission slip and the medical release form found in the enrollment package that was to be notarized, to participate. No exceptions are made for students without a signed permission slip. All field trips are a privilege and any student wishing to participate must be on their best behavior and not be on in school suspension or other disciplinary actions.

 

A student must have all of their appropriate shots as well as a physical before entering Kindergarten. The shot record must be on the blue Florida form and the physical record must be on the yellow Florida form. Both forms are at any doctor’s office or health clinic.

 

Annual school physicals are provided for all students and we hope to have these completed by the end of the first semester. Height, weight, vision, hearing and a quick dental overview is part of the screening process. Notes will be sent home for follow up if there are any issues detected by the nurse. In the past the location has created less then optimal conditions for the screening process, but we are working to improve that for this school year.

 

There is a daily snack time for our younger children. Each student will be informed by their teacher of the exact type and time of snack on the first day of school.

 

All items which are found are to be turned in to the office (cafeteria). The lost and found is located in this office and students may go there to claim their property. BPA is not responsible for any items lost or stolen while at school or at any function on the school property.

More information about the Big Pine Academy can be found on our school website at www.keysschools.com/bpc.

 

A photographer from Inter-State Studio and Publishing Company will be at the school on Friday, October 17^th to take our annual school pictures.

 

1.      General television and multimedia viewing is to be used as an instructional tool. This requires their usage to be part of a lesson plan and in alignment with sunshine state standards with verbal reinforcement of the presented materials.

2.      Students are not to passively watch television.

3.      Teachers are allowed to utilize visual multimedia in their classrooms as part of a weekly reward system. (see 4) This does NOT include daily viewing. Parents are to be canvassed as to whether they want their children to participate in this reward system, if not, alternative, suitable activities are to be provided to their child within the classroom.

4.      All viewing content needs to be age specific and appropriate. Teachers will develop a classroom list of all videos to be shown on special occasions.

 

Parental, classroom volunteers are to be at the discretion of individual classroom teacher.

The volunteer must maintain student confidentiality at all times.

 

Board Members who have students at the school are allowed to volunteer in their child’s classroom at the discretion of the teacher.

 

The Florida Board of Education has established a zero tolerance policy on school violence, crime, and the use of weapons as a part of a comprehensive approach to reducing school violence. It is an effort to provide an environment that is drug-free and protects students' health, safety, and civil rights as stated in Goal Five of the State Education Goals. The goal emphasizes the personal responsibility of students and the necessity of involving all stakeholders, including parents, in achieving this goal. This policy requires school districts to invoke the most severe consequences provided for in the Code of Student Conduct in dealing with students who engage in violent criminal acts, such as homicide (murder, manslaughter); sexual battery; armed robbery; aggravated battery; battery or aggravated battery on a teacher or other school personnel; kidnapping or abduction; arson; possession, use, or sale of any firearm; or possession, use, or sale of any explosive device on school property, on school sponsored transportation, or during school-sponsored activities.

 

 

SCHOOL POLICE AUTOMATED REPORTING (S.P.A.R.)

The State of Florida Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 1995 requires each school district to link juvenile violence incidents to the action taken by the student’s school and the district. School districts are required to collect data about violence incidents involving students during each school year and transmit a report to the State. Discipline reporting is required for suspensions (indoor and outdoor), court or juvenile referrals, alternative placements, and expulsions.

 

Violations of Monroe County School District’s Acceptable Use Policy for the Exploration and Utilization of the Internet and Inappropriate Use of Computers and/or Electronic Communication Devices

Violations of Monroe County School District’s (MCSD) “Acceptable Use Policy for the Exploration and Utilization of the Internet” and any inappropriate use of computers and/or electronic communication devices are also violations of the Code of Student Conduct. The advancement of technology has enabled many students with the access and the opportunity to commit offenses which violate the Code of Student Conduct. For example, an e-mail from a student threatening to do bodily harm to another may be considered an assault. Downloading pirated software is comparable to stealing. Willful, knowing and unauthorized access to or “hacking” into the school’s computer system may constitute vandalism.

 

Unauthorized use of school property or of a school computer or other electronic device which damages a school’s computer system or causes the computer to “crash” may constitute a “computer-related crime” leading to criminal charges.

 

These are just a few examples of violations committed through electronic means. Each offense that is committed by electronic means or through the use of technological resources will be evaluated by school administration in determining the appropriate group violation under this Code.

 

TO THE PARENTS:

The primary objective of Big Pine Academy is to ensure that students are given the opportunity to develop their potential for learning and to interact positively with other students in a safe environment free of disruptions. The purpose of this booklet is to assist students, parents, teachers, and administrators in promoting and maintaining this positive teaching and learning environment. The Code of Student Conduct explains in detail the following procedures:

 

·         Preventive measures teachers and administrators take to create a safe, positive environment

·         Types of violations which disrupt the educational process

·         Formal disciplinary actions that can be taken when a student violates the Code of Student Conduct

·         Safeguards which protect the rights of students and parents

·         Description of student rights and responsibilities

 

As a parent, it is important to understand that, according to School Board rules, the criminal violations described in this Code of Student Conduct MUST be reported to the appropriate police authorities. The Code of Student Conduct describes both student rights and student responsibilities.

 

These rights and responsibilities reflect the need for providing students with greater opportunities to become independent citizens in society. Nowhere is it stated in this booklet, nor even implied, that the school should relinquish its authority and responsibility. Within every school, the principal and staff inevitably have the responsibility and authority for maintaining the orderly educational process. National origin minority or limited English proficient (LEP) students shall not be subjected to any disciplinary action because of the use of language other than English. In addition, the principal is authorized to take administrative action whenever a student's misconduct away from school has a detrimental effect upon other students or on the orderly educational process.

 

 

Question: What is the Code of Student Conduct?

Answer: The Code of Student Conduct is a list of student rules, responsibilities, and rights. It describes what you can and cannot do during regular school hours, on a school bus, on field trips, and during school activities.

 

Question: Why do I need a Code of Student Conduct?

Answer: You need to have a school setting that:

* makes you feel safe

* helps you learn

* teaches you the difference between good behavior and poor behavior

 

If every student obeys the Code of Student Conduct, then all students will be able to learn in the best possible place.

 

Question: What can I do to help my school be a safe and friendly place?

Answer: You can:

* come to school every day and be on time

* be ready to work with all your school supplies

* be respectful and polite to all people who work in your school

* control yourself from speaking words that will hurt others

* obey your school's rules

* control yourself from committing violent acts which will hurt others

* be responsible for your own work

 

Question: What can my parents do to help me follow the Code of Student Conduct?

Answer: Your parents can:

* go to school meetings

* show you the way to behave in your home, community, and school

* keep in contact with your school to be aware of your conduct and progress

* tell your teachers about any special problem you may have

* talk to you about your report cards and homework

 

Question: What can my school and my teachers do to help me follow the Code of Student Conduct?

Answer: Your school and/or teachers can:

* make certain your school work is neither too easy nor too hard

* help you find a person you can talk to if you have a problem at home or at school

* let you know when you are following the rules and when you are not following the rules

* set up meetings between your parents, teachers, and principal

* keep your school safe

* provide opportunities for you to participate in conflict resolution programs

* show respect for you and your property

* be fair in dealing with you

* help your parents become active in the school

* help you get involved in making school rules

* make certain not to use words which are hurtful to you

* talk to your parents whenever it is necessary

 

Question: What can happen if I don't follow the rules?

Answer: If you break the rules, here are some actions that your school may take:

Counseling - You may be sent to a counselor to discuss rules and regulations and the consequences of good and poor behavior.

Detention - You may be told that you have to serve a detention. This means:

* your parents are told of your detention at least one day before you serve it

* you stay after school for a certain amount of time

* your detention may last for up to 10 days

Disciplinary Probation - This is a warning to you to follow the Code of Student Conduct. If not:

* you may not be permitted to join in school activities

* you will be sent to an administrator, a teacher or counselor who will help you follow the rules

Work Assignments - These are jobs that could be assigned to you. These jobs help keep your school clean and orderly. For example, you may be asked to sweep floors or care for the school grounds.

Loss of Bus Privileges - You may not be permitted to ride the school bus for a certain number of days if you break the rules on the bus.

Removal from Class for a Period of Time - If you interfere with the teaching and learning in your class, you will be sent to the principal, or counselor for a period of time. The following steps are then taken:

* you may have a conference with your teacher and principal where you can explain what happened and why it happened

* your parents may also be contacted

* you could face suspension, assignment to an alternative education disciplinary program, or expulsion

 

If your behavior continues to interfere with the teacher’s ability to properly instruct you and the other students, the teacher may request that you not be allowed to return to his or her class. If this action is taken the following will happen:

* Your parent will be requested to meet with a committee of teachers and other members of the school’s staff. You may also be present at the meeting.

* The committee will hear from you and your parent, and then the committee will decide if you return to your original teacher’s class, or be assigned to another teacher’s class.

 

Question: What is corporal punishment?

Answer: Corporal punishment is physical force or contact applied to the body as punishment. Corporal punishment is prohibited in Monroe County Public Schools. This prohibition extends to parents or guardians on school grounds.

 

Question: What happens if I am suspended from school?

Answer: If you are suspended from school you may be kept out of school for up to 10 days.

 

Question: What rights do I have if I am recommended for suspension?

Answer: You have the right to DUE PROCESS. This means you have the right to:

 

* be given the reason(s) you are being recommended for suspension

* explain what happened and why

* get help from your parents or other persons in presenting your side of the story

* be given a fair amount of time to prepare this explanation

 

Question: Do I have to make up work that I miss if I am suspended?

Answer: Yes.

* If you do not make up the assigned work you missed while you were suspended, you will get an "F" for the work

* If you finish all your assigned work following your suspension, you will receive credit for that work

 

Question: What other responsibilities do I have because of the suspension?

Answer: It is your responsibility to:

* show improved behavior and effort

* get your assignments from your teacher

* finish makeup work within a reasonable amount of time

 

Question: What happens if I get expelled from school?

Answer: You may be assigned to an alternative educational program away from your school for a period up to two years.

 

Question: What rights do I have if I am told I may be expelled?

Answer: You have the right to:

* be told why you are being considered for expulsion

* be given a chance to present your side of the story

* give your principal a list of names of people who saw what happened

 

In addition, parents and students who disagree with decisions at the school level have the following rights:

 

* a school-level hearing

* appeal of school-level decisions to the ACCESS Center

* a formal complaint procedure

 

In instances of assignment to opportunity school and other alternative programs, or recommendation for expulsion, parents may request a hearing before an impartial hearing officer.

 

Question: What is my responsibility in contributing to a safe and friendly school environment?

Answer: It is your responsibility to share with an adult knowledge you may have about a potentially harmful or dangerous action to yourself and/or to others.

 

Examples of these situations are; threats of violence, acts of bullying and harassment, possession of weapons or drugs by another person in school, and stealing.

 

 

BREAKING THE SCHOOL RULES

GROUP ONE (I)

General disruptive conduct

Use of bad language such as curse words or threats

Possession of objects such as beepers, pagers, telephones, laser pointers, radios, CD players, and other recreational electronic devices

Violation of the school’s dress code

 

The first time you break these rules, see PLAN A.

 

If you break the rules again, see PLAN B (Required).

 

GROUP TWO (II)

Bullying - repeated threatening behavior with the aim of physically or mentally hurting another individual

Cheating - Intentionally using another’s work to receive credit or improve grades, plagiarizing, giving or receiving answers during testing

Refusal to obey teachers and administrators

Misbehavior on the school bus

Gambling (SPAR)

Threatening to hurt another person (SPAR)

Having or giving out indecent material

Stealing (SPAR)

Harassment

Sexual Harassment (SPAR)

Smoking

Vandalism (minor) (destruction, damage, or defacement of school or personal property) - The intentional destruction, damage, or defacement of public or private property without consent of the owner or the person having custody or control of it - under $100.00

 

The first time you break these rules, see PLAN B.

 

If you break the rules again, see PLAN C (Required).

 

GROUP THREE (III)

Damaging, tampering with, or destroying property (SPAR)

False accusation

False fire alarm

Physically hurting another student (SPAR)

Fighting

Joining in-school clubs or groups NOT APPROVED by the School Board

Possession of fireworks

Possession of chemical compounds like tear gas and mace (SPAR)

Possession of simulated weapons (toy guns, water guns, cap guns, toy knives, etc.) (SPAR)

Trespassing - To enter school grounds/campus, school transportation or a school-sponsored event off campus without authorization or invitation and remaining there after being directed to leave (SPAR)

Vandalism (major) The intentional destruction, damage, or defacement of public or private property without consent of the owner or the person having custody or control of it resulting in damage of $100 or more (SPAR)

 

The first time you break these rules, see PLAN C.

 

If you break the rules again, see PLAN D (Required).

 

GROUP FOUR (IV)

Breaking and Entering/Burglary - Unlawful entry with force, or unauthorized presence in a building or other structure, or conveyance with evidence of the intent to damage or remove property or to harm a person(s) (SPAR)

Disorderly Conduct (significantly disrupts all or portions of the campus activities, school sponsored events and school bus transportation) 

Disruptive behavior that poses a serious threat to the learning environment, health, safety, and/or welfare of others (SPAR)

Motor Vehicle Theft - Unauthorized use, taking, or attempted taking, of a motor vehicle (SPAR)

Making someone give you money or things of value that do not belong to you by using force or threats (SPAR)

Threatening a staff member* (SPAR)

Robbery (SPAR)

Having and/or using illegal mood modifiers, including alcohol (drugs which change the way you act, think, and feel) (SPAR) (The use of illegal drugs or alcohol is wrong and harmful.)

 

The first time you break these rules, see PLAN D.

 

If you break the rules again, see PLAN D (Required).

*REQUIRES PRINCIPAL TO MAKE RECOMMENDATION FOR EXPULSION

 

GROUP FIVE (V)

Threatening to hit or hitting another student with a weapon (SPAR)

Having and/or hiding a weapon (SPAR)

Continuous disruptive behavior (SPAR)

Sex violation (SPAR)

Hate Crime (SPAR)

Bringing mood modifiers, including alcohol, to school to sell or give to other students (SPAR)

Other Major (major incidents that do not fit within the other definitions) - Any serious, harmful incident resulting in the need for law enforcement intervention not previously classified (SPAR) (The possession of illegal drugs or alcohol is wrong and harmful.)

 

If you break these rules, see PLAN E (Required).

 

GROUP SIX (VI)

Making a threat or false report involving school or school personnel’s property, school transportation, or a school sponsored activity. (SPAR)

Threatening someone with a firearm, or concealing a firearm, knife, or other deadly weapon**( aggravated assault) (SPAR)

Physically hurting someone with a firearm, knife or other weapon (aggravated battery) (SPAR)

Intentionally hitting a school staff member (battery or aggravated battery on a teacher or other school personnel) (SPAR)

Taking someone's life (homicide - murder, manslaughter) (SPAR)

Sexual battery (SPAR)

Taking money or property of another by using force or a weapon (armed robbery) (SPAR)

Confining or holding another person against that person's will (Kidnapping or abduction) (SPAR)

Starting a fire which causes damage or is intended to cause damage (arson) (SPAR)

Possession, use, or sale of any firearms or destructive devices (SPAR)

Possession, use, or sale of any explosive device (SPAR)

 

If you break these rules, see PLAN F (Required).

**THE POSSESSION OF A FIREARM ON SCHOOL PROPERTY MAY ALSO RESULT IN CRIMINAL PENALTIES INADDITION TO SUSPENSION, EXPULSION OR OTHER SCHOOL DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

 

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

(One or more of these actions may be appropriate)

 

PLAN A

* calling and talking to your parents

* meeting with your teacher

* serving a detention, work assignment, or other in-class/school action

* repaying or replacing any damage, if appropriate

 

PLAN B

* calling and talking to your parents

* meeting with your teacher and appropriate school personnel

* being kept out of class

* work assignment

* loss of bus privileges

* participating in a session on the problem of harassment

* conducting research on the topic of harassment

* referring criminal acts to the local police

* repaying or replacing any damage, if appropriate

 

PLAN C

* calling and talking to your parents

* meeting with you and your parents, teachers, and administrator

* notifying you that you may be expelled

* participating in a series of sessions which focus on ending the student's harassing behavior. This may be considered an alternative to suspension.

* suspending you from school for up to 10 days

* referring criminal acts to the local police

* repaying or replacing any damage, if appropriate

 

PLAN D

* meeting with administrator and parents

* suspending you from school for up to 10 days

* telling you that you may be expelled

* referring criminal acts to the local police

* repaying or replacing any damage, if appropriate

(Mandatory where appropriate)

 

PLAN E

* meeting with administrator and parents

* suspending you from school for 10 days

* telling you that you are being recommended for expulsion

* referring criminal acts to the local police

* repaying or replacing any damage, if appropriate

(Mandatory where appropriate)

 

PLAN F

* meeting with administrator and parents

* suspending you from school for 10 days

* telling you that you are being recommended for expulsion

* referring criminal acts to the local police

* repaying or replacing any damage, if appropriate

 

Question: How do I learn school rules?

Answer: Your teachers will explain the rules to you. You must listen carefully so that you will know what you can and cannot do while you are in school.

 

RESPECT FOR PERSONS AND PROPERTY

Question: Why is it important for me to respect other people and their property?

Answer: You have a duty to treat other students and school workers with the same respect you hope to receive from them.

 

Question: How does my school show respect for my property and me?

Answer: You have the right to expect that teachers and principals will:

* not abuse or injure your body or your character

* respect your personal property

* provide for your safety at school and on the bus

* speak to you courteously

 

Question: What can I do to show respect for other students, teachers, and school visitors?

Answer: You can do the following:

* make sure you do not damage or take things from other students, teachers, or visitors

* make certain you do not destroy or damage things in or around your school

* respect the property of people who live close to the school and school bus stop

* respect people's feelings by not saying hurtful things

* speak courteously to others

 

COUNSELING

Question: If I have family or school problems, where can I get help?

Answer: You have the right to get help from a school counselor who will give you the time and attention you need. Your counselor will be able to send you to other places you can go for help.

You should:

* make your own appointment to talk to your counselor about your problems

* talk to the counselor when you feel the need

 

STUDENT RECORDS

Question: What information is in my student records?

Answer: Your student records have grades, test scores, attendance records, and other information about you. These records help the school staff plan a program that meets your needs.

 

Question: Who can read my school records?

Answer: School staff and your parents or guardians may read your records. These individuals also have the right to object to the information in your student records. Written permission must be given by your parents or guardians for anyone else to read your school records. This permission is called a release.

 

Question: What information do my parents or guardians need to give the school for keeping records up to date, correct and useable?

Answer: Your parents or guardians should:

* give school updated address and telephone numbers

* give your school all information that is useful in planning for your education

* release your records to those people who are working to help you learn in the best possible way

 

ATTENDANCE AND GRADES

Question: What are the rules and laws for attending school?

Answer: You have a duty to attend school.

 

Your school must:

* enforce the required school attendance laws

* explain what excused absences, unexcused absences, and tardies mean

* give you a fair amount of time to make up class work missed because of an excused absence, unexcused absence, or absence due to suspension

 

You must:

* give your school a reason for your absence

* ask your teachers for all work which was missed when you were absent

* complete this work within a reasonable amount of time

* obey the law by attending school

 

If you think a decision about unexcused absences is unfair, your parents can take certain steps. These steps are called "DUE PROCESS."

 

Question: What rights do I have when I get my grades?

Answer: You have the right to:

* know how your teacher arrived at your grade

* be given a fair grade

* be told when your grade may be falling below a C

* be given a conduct and effort grade which matches your behavior and effort

 

Question: What responsibilities do I have for my grades?

Answer: You have the responsibility to:

* ask your teachers what you must do to get certain grades

* work as hard as you can

* improve your grade when you get an unsatisfactory work notice

* make sure your behavior in class helps you learn

 

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

Question: Can my personal belongings be searched and taken away from me?

Answer: * No one can search or take things that belong to you unless the principal, teacher, counselor, or other authorized person has a good reason. A good reason would be that your principal, teacher, counselor, or other authorized person has a reasonable suspicion that you are hiding materials which are against the law or school rules.

 

* You have the right to know ahead of time if your desk or other school storage places will be searched. If there is an emergency, however, you do not have to be told ahead of time.

 

Question: How can my school protect me from objects which are dangerous?

Answer: School staff has the right to make searches if they believe there are prohibited items in school.

 

Question: What responsibilities go along with my right to privacy?

Answer: * You have the responsibility not to carry or hide dangerous objects which are against the law or can disturb or frighten your classmates.

* You have the responsibility for what is stored in your desk.

 

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

Question: What is a grievance?

Answer: A grievance is a formal complaint you may have about your treatment in school.

 

Question: What is my responsibility if I feel a teacher or principal has not been fair to me or has wronged me?

Answer: You have the responsibility to talk over what you feel is unfair with the people who are involved with the situation. This talk should be done first in an informal way. If you do not get satisfaction, you must then take a more formal approach. This involves:

* a school-level hearing

* a formal complaint procedure

 

In instances of assignment to opportunity school and other alternative programs, or recommendation for expulsion, parents may request a hearing before an impartial hearing officer.

 

FREE SPEECH, EXPRESSION, AND ASSEMBLY

You may express your opinion in any way that is fair. You also have a right to disagree with your classmates' and teachers' opinions.

When you disagree, you must respect the rights of others. Give your classmates the same respect you would want to receive from them.

 

MY RIGHTS MY RESPONSIBILITIES

I have the right to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. I also have the right not to recite the Pledge of Allegiance if the Pledge goes against my beliefs.

I have the right to refuse to join in any activity which goes against my religious or deep personal beliefs.

I have the right to wear badges or other symbols which display my beliefs as long as I do not break the rules of the school's dress code.

I have the right to express my opinions without worrying that I may hurt my relations with my teachers.

I have the right to gather peacefully on school property.

I must behave in a non-disruptive way while a school program or activity is occurring.

I must respect the beliefs of others.

I must respect the rights of other students who disagree with my way of thinking or behaving.

I must know the facts when I state my opinions.

I must get permission to gather peacefully on school property.

 

 

GLOSSARY

Administrators:         A group of people in school who are in charge of managing school business, such as the principal. The administrators in your school are there to help you as well as help your teachers.

 

Aggravated Battery: Injuring a person without permission, either making them handicapped for life, or hurting them seriously or injuring with a weapon. The student broke a classmate's wrist, and was suspended from school for aggravated battery.

 

Arson:                         Starting a fire that causes damage or may cause damage to school property or someone else's property. The police arrested the suspect for arson because he/she started a fire in the library.

 

Battery On                 The intentional touching or striking of any school employee against his/her will,

A Teacher or             for example, a counselor, teacher, custodian, principal. The student pushed the

Other  School             teacher against the wall and was arrested for battery on school personnel.

Personnel:                 

 

Breaking and                        (illegal entry into a facility) - The unlawful entry with force, or  unauthorized

Entering/Burglary: presence in a building or other structure, or conveyance with evidence, of the intent to damage or remove property or to harm a person(s). The children committed breaking and entering/burglary when they broke through the window to steal the school camera.

 

Bullying:                    Repeatedly using hostile intimidating, domineering or threatening behavior with the aim or purpose of physically or mentally hurting another individual. The student was suspended from school for bullying his classmate by repeatedly taking his lunch.

 

Cheating:                   Intentionally using another’s work to receive credit or improve grades, plagiarizing, giving or receiving answers during testing. The teacher accused Johnny of cheating when she found answers to the test written on his desk.

 

Complaint:                 Something thought to be unjust. The student tried to settle the

Informal complaint with the teacher by talking over the problem with the teacher.

 

Complaint                  Procedure to resolve a serious issue. My parents are

Procedure (Formal): going to use a formal complaint procedure to resolve their

                                    complaint.

 

Corporal:                    Corporal punishment is prohibited in Monroe County Public Schools. This prohibition extends to parents or guardians. Corporal punishments physical force or contact applied to the body as punishment.

 

Counselor:                  A person in your school who is there to help you. My counselor helped me with my family problems as well as my school problems.

 

Disciplinary              Punishment for breaking the rules. Because I misbehaved in class, Action:                                                   I was removed from class. This is an example of a disciplinary action.

 

 

Disorderly                  (significantly disrupts all or portions of the campus activities,

Conduct:                    school sponsored events and school bus transportation) - Disruptive behavior that poses a serious threat to the learning environment, health, safety, and/or welfare of others. The fifth graders were charged with disorderly conduct when they released stink bombs in the school dance.

 

Disruptive:                 Exhibiting disturbing behavior to your teacher or classmates. The

Student was so disruptive in class that the teacher called the student's parents.

 

Due Process:             The series of steps one takes to protect one's rights; a person's right to know about charges made against him or her; the right to explain what happened and why and the right to appeal provided by school rules. Due process protects your rights as a student.

 

Enforce:                     To make sure a law is followed. The school must enforce Florida

laws.

 

Expulsion:                  A very serious action which may not allow you to go to your

regular school for as long as two years. Because the student carried a knife, the disciplinary action taken was an expulsion.

 

False Accusation:     Saying things that are not true about a teacher or staff member.

This is very serious because these comments can hurt the professional reputation of the person. The principal spoke with the student’s father because she made a false accusation about the teacher being arrested.

 

False Report:             It is unlawful to make a false report with intent to deceive, mislead,

Or otherwise misinform any person concerning the placing or planting of any bomb, dynamite, or any other deadly explosive. The student was arrested for making a false report to the school that a bomb was in the restroom.

 

Fighting:                    Fighting - Two or more persons mutually agree to participate in

physical violence that may require physical restraint. The students were suspended for fighting in the cafeteria.

 

Gender:                      Male or female (boys or girls). A person's gender does not affect job ability.

 

Grievance:                 A formal complaint procedure (see Complaint Procedure Formal).

 

Harassment:              Repeated hostile treatment or violence against a student because of

his/her gender, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, political beliefs, marital status, age, sexual orientation, social and family background, linguistic preference, pregnancy, or disability is considered harassment. Bullying another student because he/she does not speak your language is harassment.

 

Hate Crime:              Criminal acts or incidents motivated by hate due to some characteristics or perceived characteristics of the victim motivated all or in part by hostility to the victim’s real or perceived race, religion, color, sexual orientation, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, etc. Police arrested and charged the students with a hate crime because they threw paint on the home of a student whose religious beliefs were different from theirs.

 

 

Hearing (Formal):    A meeting where both sides of a story are presented to an impartial

(outside) hearing officer. My parents and I asked for a hearing. In

                                    this way both sides of the story could be heard.

 

Homicide                  Murder - the unlawful killing of a person. Manslaughter –

(murder,                     carelessly killing a person without just or right cause. The

manslaughter):          student was taken to court for homicide because of killing another

person.

 

Kidnapping or           Taking and holding a person against that person's will.

Abduction:                 After the abduction, the kidnapper asked for a $10,000 ransom to

release the prisoner.

 

Mood Modifiers:        Drugs and other substances which can change the way you act or change the way you think and feel. Marijuana, cocaine and alcohol are very dangerous mood modifiers.

 

            Motor Vehicle           (actual or attempted taking of a vehicle) – Unauthorized

Theft:                          use, taking, or attempted taking, of a motor vehicle. The boys removed the teacher’s car keys from her desk and attempted to drive her car away from the school.

            Other Major:              (major incidents that do not fit within the other definitions) - Any serious, harmful incident resulting in the need for law enforcement intervention not previously classified. The girl scout committed an other major crime when she spent the money collected during the school’s girl scout cookie sale.

 

            Possession, Use,       Any substance that can cause an explosion. A cherry bomb,

Sale of Any                 an explosive device, damaged the library.

Explosive Device:

                       

Possession, Use,       A firearm is any weapon used to shoot with, such as a gun. A

or Sale of Any            destructive device is any bomb, grenade, mine, rocket, missile, or

Firearm or                 pipe bomb that can explode. The firearm, a destructive device,

Destructive Device: killed the student.

 

Property:                    Something which belongs to someone. My clothes are my

property.

 

Responsibility:          A duty; obligation; the act of being responsible. As a student, I

have a responsibility to respect the property of others.

 

Review:                       Reconsideration; check-over; rethinking a decision. I hope our

teacher will review the plans to give us homework over the holiday weekend.

 

Right:                                     Privilege; fair and just claim. You are given many rights when you

go to school, such as the right to learn.

 

Sexual Battery:          The actual and intentional touching, feeling, hurting or penetrating

another person's private parts against that person's will. The student was charged with sexual battery when caught touching another student's private parts.

 

 

Sexual                         Unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature; sexual advances, request

Harassment:              for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when such conduct substantially interferes with a student’s academic performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive school environment. The student was suspended and charged with sexual harassment because he repeatedly invited a female student into the boys’ restroom.

 

School Staff:               People who work in a school such as teachers, principals and counselors. Your school staff is there to help you follow the Code of Student Conduct.

 

School Workers:        See school staff.

Student Council:       A group of students chosen by the student body to represent the student (Government) body. The Student Council (Government) voted on who should help with the 6th grade party.

 

Suspension:               Being removed from school for up to 10 days. Because of the

student's behavior, the student was given a suspension.

 

Symbol:                      Something that stands for something else. The American flag is the

symbol for our country.

 

Theft:                          To take away something belonging to another person without

permission. The student was charged with theft when he took a book from the library without checking it out.

 

Threat:                       Threat - It is unlawful to say you are going to throw, place or explode any destructive device so that it will hurt someone or damage their belongings. The student was expelled because of making a threat to blow up the teacher’s car.

 

Trespassing:              (illegal entry onto campus) - To enter or remain on school

grounds/campus, school transportation, or at a school-sponsored event off campus without authorization or invitation and to remain there after being directed to leave. The fourth grader was trespassing when he entered the classroom after being warned by the principal that school was closed.

 

Vandalism:                (destruction, damage, or defacement of school or personal property) – The intentional destruction, damage, or defacement of public or private property without consent of the owner or the person having custody or control of it resulting in damages. The student committed vandalism when he intentionally destroyed the pencil sharpener.

 

Violation:                   A breaking of a school rule. For every violation there is a recommended disciplinary action. (See Disciplinary Action)

 

Weapon:                     Anything that is used to cause bodily harm or death, including b.b. guns/air guns. The student threatened another student with a weapon.

Witness:                     Person who saw something happen. I was a witness to a car

accident.

 

Zero Tolerance:        Violence will not be allowed during school activities, on school

property and on school-sponsored transportation. This zero tolerance policy will help keep our schools a safe place for students.

Parent Support Contract

The following is a copy of our parent contract. Each parent is required to read, sign and fulfill the contract.

 

Parents and legal guardians agree to the best of their ability to:

*          give 25 hours of volunteer service that will benefit the school and help my child and other classmates to learn. (Please contact the school office to make arrangement for a monetary donation of $10 per hour in lieu of the 25 hour commitment)

*          ensure that my child arrives to school on time and ready to learn.

*          ensure that my child arrives at school wearing the appropriate clothes.

*          Ensure that my child arrives at school everyday with their homework assignments completed.

*          attend at least one parent-teacher meeting per grading period.

*          have any conflicts resolved at school in a friendly and non-threatening way.

*          abide by rules and regulations that the School Advisory Committee and PTA, with approval of the Governing Board, may establish to operate the school.

 

In return, BPA agrees to:

*          be non-sectarian and non-discriminatory in our programs, admissions policies, employment practices and operations.

*          be accountable to the Monroe County School Board for classroom performance.

*          not charge tuition for students in grades K – 5.

*          meet all applicable health, safety, and welfare requirements.

*          be subject to an annual financial audit.

*          hold the BPA accountable to its students, parents/guardians, and the community at large through a continuous cycle of planning, evaluation and refinement.

 

 

STUDENT’S NAME: _______________________________   GRADE__________________

 

1. I,                                                                      ____,  (Parent/Legal Guardian) agree to do my best to follow the school rules and regulations and I further agree to do my best to adhere to the parent responsibilities listed above.
2. * The ability of a parent/legal guardian to adhere to the above listed parent responsibilities shall in no way impact the admission or dismissal of any student at BPA.

 

Parent Acknowledgment:

 

I have reviewed and read the code of student conduct and I am aware of the consequences, should my child commit any violation of this code while attending BPA.

 

_____________________________________

Parent

 

Student Acknowledgment

 

I have received a copy of the code of student conduct and I understand that I must adhere to its rules and regulations. Should I violate any of these rules, I am aware of the consequences.

 

_____________________________________

Student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                             

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCHOOL CALENDAR                                                                                  1

SCHOOL SCHEDULE                                                                                   2

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE                                                                             3

WHAT IS A CHARTER SCHOOL?                                                               4

CORE VALUES                                                                                              4

MISSION STATEMENT                                                                                4

STUDENTS SERVED                                                                                     5

CURRICULUM                                                                                              5

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES                                                                    5

UNIFORM POLICY                                                                                       6

ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL                                                                         7

TARDY TO SCHOOL                                                                                    7

LEAVING SCHOOL EARLY                                                                         7

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION                                                7

SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS                                                                    7

ILLNESS AND INJURY                                                                                8

STUDENT PICK UP/DROP OFF                                                                  8

BEHAVIOR/SAFETY GUIDELINES                                                             9

FIRE DRILLS                                                                                      9

VALUABLES                                                                                      9

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN                                                       10

EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION (ESE)                                         10

GRADING                                                                                                      10

PROGRESS REPORTS                                                                                  10

PROMOTION/RETENTION                                                              11

HOME LEARNING ASSIGNMENTS                                                           11

MAKE UP WORK                                                                                         11

FCAT                                                                                                              11

TEXTBOOKS                                                                                                 11

LUNCH PROCEDURES                                                                                11

LIBRARY                                                                                                        12

TRANSPORTATION                                                                                     12

PHYSICAL EDUCATION                                                                             13

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM                                                                       13

FIELD TRIPS                                                                                      13

IMMUNIZATIONS                                                                                        13

SNACKS                                                                                                        13

LOST AND FOUND                                                                                      14

WEBSITE                                                                                                        14

VOLUNTEERS                                                                                               14

TELEVISION IN THE CLASSROOMS                                                         14

 

(Cont.)

 

CONDUCTING OF SURVEYS                                                                     14

STUDENT EDUCATINAL RECORDS                                                          15

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT                                                                17

ZERO TOLERANCE FOR VIOLENT CRIMES                                            18

SCHOOL POLICE AUTOMATED REPORTING (S.P.AR.)             18

ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONS                                                               18

INTRODUCTION                                                                                          19

FACTS ABOUT THE CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT                             20

BREAKING THE SCHOOL RULES VIOLATIONS                         24

AND WHAT HAPPENS NEXT…DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS                    26

KNOWING THE CODE OF CONDUCT                                                      28

RESPECT FOR PERSONS AND PROPERTY                                              28

COUNSELING                                                                                               28

STUDENT RECORDS                                                                                    28

ATTENDANCE AND GRADES                                                                    29

SEARCH AND SEIZURE                                                                               30

COMPLAINT PROCEDURES                                                                       30

FREE SPEECH, EXPRESSION, AND ASSEMBLY                          30

MY RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES                                                       31

GLOSSARY                                                                                                    32

PARENT SUPPORT CONTRACT                                                                 37

PARENT/STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT                                            38

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

               

 

 

 

 

 

 

Morning

7:30am                         Staff arrives

7:30am                         Students report to cafeteria

Breakfast and lunch money collected by Amanda

7:45am                         Teachers pick up students

7:55am                         Considered Tardy

8:00am                         Pledge of Allegiance

 

Lunch

10:30am - 11:00am      Pre-K

11:00am - 11:30am      Kindergarten

11:20am - 11:50am      1^st

11:30am - 12:00am      2^nd/3^rd

 

Specials

Monday                       Spanish

Tuesday                       Art

Wednesday                  Music

Thursday                      P.E. (sneakers needed)

Friday                          Library

 

Dismissal

2:00pm                         All students are dismissed

Car riders go to cafeteria

All bus and aftercare go to Boys & Girls Club room

Bus riders are picked up at 2:50pm from aftercare

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Principal’s Message

 

Dear Parents,

 

We expect this to be another exciting year to either start your child off or join us again in our public charter school. We hope this will be a pleasant and successful experience for both you and your child.

 

This booklet is meant to give you some key information about our school. We have a caring, experienced faculty staff here at the Neighborhood Charter School, who are ready to teach your child. Our teachers, aides and administrative staff will be focusing on making your child succeed in everything he/she does at school.

 

If you have any questions at any time about any of our programs and/or policies during the next school year, please feel free to contact your child’s teacher or myself. Our school takes particular pride in maintaining an open door policy at all times for parent discussions and classroom volunteers.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

Moby Madisetti. M.Sc.

Executive Administrator

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is a Charter School?

Charter schools are public schools that operate under a performance contract, or a “charter”, which frees them from most rules and regulations created for traditional public schools. As part of the contract, charter schools are held strictly accountable for academic and financial results.

 

Charter schools allow teachers and principals to respond immediately and accurately to specific educational needs within a community.  In providing a choice in educational options, charter schools stimulate competition to raise the standard for all students.

 

Charter schools provide freedom and flexibility from bureaucracies that operate in traditional public schools. They have the independence to make their own decisions along with financial control for the ability to implement and pay for the decisions made by the charter school founders.

 

Big Pine Neighborhood Charter School Inc. (BPNCS) is a public charter school with Monroe County School Board (MCSB) under Florida Statues Chapter 447, part II and Charter School Legislature 106 Chapter 2000-3306 and House Bill 2087.

 

This neighborhood school has run as the Sugarloaf satellite school since 1992, and then was converted to charter status as an independent public school on July 1, 2002. Fundamental school goals are: 1) increase accountability for student performance focusing on what works; 2) reducing bureaucracy; 3) increasing program and policy flexibility; and 4) empowering parents and teachers.

Core Values

We plan to make our neighborhood Charter school into one of the leading public elementary schools in the state.  Our standards for educational quality will be second to none. The core values of honesty, accountability, integrity, respect, tolerance, fairness, self-discipline, responsibility, citizenship, work ethic, and trust are the foundation upon which our school is built.

Mission Statement

The mission of the BPNCS is to provide a safe and nurturing school environment and equitable student access to an enriching and challenging mastery learning curriculum containing the skills, content knowledge and character development for quality student outcomes and to help all students become successful life-long learners and responsible, informed citizens of the 21^st century.

The future of our country and our American way-of-life depends upon the education of our children.  In Florida and Monroe County, we must rise to the challenge of continuing to build our public school education system into a responsive institution that serves our students, our State, and our Country with pride and distinction.  BPNCS is about recommitting ourselves to the highest standards of education rather than accepting the minimum basic skills.                              

 

 

The BPNCS

Caring………………more than others think wise.

Risking……..............more than others think safe.

Dreaming……...more than others think practical.

Expecting………more than others think possible.

 

Students Served

The BPNCS is open to any/all K-3 students and families living between and including Key West to Marathon. All classrooms at the BPNCS are capped at no more than 18 students in any one class.

 

Curriculum

The following Curricula are in place for grades K-3:

 

§         Saxon Math

§         Saxon Phonics

§         Harcourt Reading

§         Harcourt Science

§         Harcourt Social Studies

§         Keys Character Education

More in depth detail about our curricula can be found on our school website www.keysschools.com/bpc

 

Attendance Procedures

School is in session from 7:45 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Students are expected to be in attendance every day unless there are specific reasons for absences. Daily attendance is important to student progress. Absences totaling 30 days or more per school calendar year will be considered justifiable cause for possible retention.

 

 

Mandatory Uniform Policy

Research across the county has demonstrated that a simple, inexpensive unified dress code increases classroom achievement and school spirit while at the same time decreases behavioral problems and absenteeism.  Our unified dress code for is mandatory across all grades.  We have a school store where you can donate your children’s outgrown uniforms that are still in good condition. Please feel free to donate any uniforms or take uniforms as necessary.

Our mandatory program policy for all grades will be:

 

Boys:

 

Girls:

School clothes can be purchased at local K-Mart outlets in Marathon and Key West, Wal-Mart and Target Stores in Florida City and Miami.  They can also be mailed ordered or through on-line purchasing with Land’s End, French toast or JC Penny. Our school has an account with Land’s End and French toast and gets a percentage of all purchases through those companies.

Land’s End has the school emblem that can be put on uniform clothing ordered through their company upon request. To order through them you can pick up a catalog in the school office or phone:1-800-469-2222, or email: www.landsend.com/school. If ordering by phone, on-line or by catalogue through Land’s End, please mention our Preferred School Number: 9000-8876-6, and 3% of your purchase order will be reinvested in educational programming at our school.

If ordering through French Toast, you can also pick up a catalog in the school office or phone: 1-800-373-6248, or email: www.frenchtoast.com. Mention our school name in order to for 5% of your purchase to be reinvested in educational programming at our school.

 

If your child does not show up in proper uniform, the following steps will be taken in the order below.

1. A verbal warning will be given to the child.
2. A note will be sent home stating how the child was out of uniform.
3. A call to the parent will be made requesting that a uniform be brought to  

the school for the child.

4. The child will be sent home.

Absence from School

On the day following an absence, the student is required to bring a note, signed by the parent or guardian, giving the date of the absence as well as the reason.  Excused absences are limited to the following:

 

1.)     Student illness

2.)     Medical appointment

3.)     Death in the family

4.)     Observance of a religious holiday or service when mandated for all members of that faith

5.)     School sponsored event or activity previously approved

6.)     Other individual absences beyond the control of the parent or the student as approved by the principal or designee.

All other absences will be considered unexcused. A note is required on the day following an unexcused absence. If a student has 15 unexcused absences in a 90 day calendar-day period, it is possible that a parent conference with the principal will be asked for. Actions taken will be at the principal’s discretion due to amount of days absent and reason.

Tardy To School

Students are expected to report to school in the cafeteria at 7:45 a.m. Students reporting after 7:55 a.m. must report to the office (cafeteria) to get a tardy slip. Tardy students who show up to class with no slip will be sent to the office to get a slip.

Leaving School Early

If, for any reason, it is necessary for a student to leave school early, parental consent is a necessity. Parents must come to the office to receive an “Early Dismissal” slip for students leaving early. Other than parents, only persons over 18 years old, who are listed en the “Emergency Contact card”, will be permitted to pick up students. All must show photo I.D. Telephone requests or notes requesting the student to be released will not be honored.

Emergency Contact Information

It is imperative that all parents provide telephone numbers where they can be reached during school hours. This number is needed for those occasions when illness or other student problems arise. It is also the parents’ responsibility to provide the names of all adults who can sign students out of school early. If the name is not on the emergency contact card, the student will not be released by the school.  Only persons 18 years or older as specified on the emergency contact card can pick up students.

Supervision of Students

Supervision of students is provided at the school from 7:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Parents are requested to arrange transportation for students to coincide with these times.

 

Illness and Injury

In cases of illness or injury, school personnel will determine if fire rescue should be called. If this is not necessary, parents will be called immediately.

Student Pickup/Drop Off

Private car pick-up/drop off is in the parent parking circle. Only buses will be allowed to pick up students in staff parking circle. Students are to enter the cafeteria in the mornings when dropped off. If students are tardy, they are not to go directly to class. They are to come in through the cafeteria to get their late slips. Parents are welcome to park in the grass area of the parent parking circle.

Visitors To The School

Any visitor to the school must report to the main office for a pass. Should a parent wish to visit their child’s classroom, they should contact the office with at least 24hrs notice.

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences naturally occur at every nine week grading period. Teacher will send home with your child’s report card a request for conference it deemed necessary.

Should a parent need to request a teacher conference at any period outside of the above, they should request a teacher meeting through the office. The office staff shall pass on this request to the teacher who will individually contact the parent to set-up a meeting.

Early Outs

The BPNCS follows the same academic school calendar as Sugarloaf Schools.  Parents will be notified with at least one notice as to early-out days and times of dismissal.  Aftercare on these days is available through the Boy’s and Girl’s Club.

Behavior/Safety Guidelines

Students at Big Pine Neighborhood Charter School (BPNCS) should always use their best behavior. They should be courteous, well mannered, and demonstrate concern for others. If students act in this way, we can only anticipate a year with few disciplinary problems.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Behavior/Safety Guidelines

Students at this school are governed by the Code of Student Conduct.  This Code of Conduct, as contained within this handbook, outlines the rights and responsibilities of students enrolled at the BPNCS. 

 

While students have the right to receive the best education possible and to be treated with dignity and respect, their behaviors may not infringe on the rights of others.  Certain behaviors will not be tolerated. Unacceptable behaviors include, but are not limited to:

 

1.)        disturbing the learning environment.

2.)        disregarding requests of faculty and staff.

3.)        profanity.

4.)        smoking.

5.)        vandalism.

6.)        verbal and/or physical assault.

7.)        possession of weapons of any kind.

8.)        skipping school or individual classes.

9.)        possession and/or use of drugs or illegal substances.

 

Big Pine Neighborhood Charter School is a drug free zone. Students in violation of the above will be reported to the Department of Juvenile Justice.

 

Violation of the code of student conduct may result in a parent conference, indoor suspension, outdoor suspension, assignment to opportunity school, or other disciplinary action including expulsion.

 

No radios, tape recorders, beepers, or other electronic devices are allowed in school. School personnel will confiscate any such devices that are brought to school and turn them over to the appropriate administrator, who will keep them until the student's parents retrieves the item(s).

 

No gum, candy or junk food is to be brought to school.  Teachers are instructed to confiscate and dispose of any junk food which they see in their classrooms.

Fire Drills

Fire Drills will be held ten times each year. Students are to line up as quickly and calmly as possible. Teachers will direct students to appropriate evacuation routes. Each evacuation route is clearly posted in each classroom.

Valuables

Students are advised to take particular care of valuables. Do not leave personal items and or money unattended. The school is not responsible for lost or misplaced items.

 

 

Emergency Preparedness Plan

As a District Conversion Charter School, the BPNCS follows and participates in all of the Monroe County School District’s emergency plans. Emergency school closings or evacuations can be found on the district web site (www.keysschools.com) or by listening to or watching the local media.

Exceptional Student Education

For eligible students with learning disabilities, the BPNCS will develop and implement an appropriate Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) in accordance with federal and state law and regulations including, but not limited to the American Disabilities Act (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1975 and the Florida’s Equity in Education Act.

BPNCS will utilize all the School District policies and procedures related to peripheral activities referral, ESE eligibility, IEP, development and placement. Children with handicap conditions and served in English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL) shall receive educational and related services in accordance with federal and state requirements.

Grading

Report cards will be issued each nine weeks. The final grade in an annual course will be an average of the four grading periods.

 

Academic grading scale (as mandated by the State of Florida)

                                    90-100             A- Excellent

                                    0-89                 B- Good

                                    70-79               C- Satisfactory

                                    60-69               D - minimal acceptable average

                                    0-68                 F - Failure

 

Effort grading scale:

3   =  Successful progress

2   =  Progressing, on grade level

1   =  Area of Concern

— =  Not evaluated

Progress Reports

At the mid-point of the nine week period (or at any time the student’s work falls below the satisfactory level) parents will be sent a Progress Report. Notes will be sent home advising the date and time of Conferences. You can wait for the conference time or a conference can be arranged by calling 872-1266 and asking to leave a message for the student’s teacher.

Promotion/Retention

The BPNCS follows the Monroe County School District Student Progression Plan. The plan can be found online at www.keysschools.com

Home Learning Assignments

Home learning assignments are an integral part of the educational process and are to be returned by the next school day or upon the teacher’s request. Teachers use home learning as practice of skills taught in class, as well as extension of these skills.

Make-Up Work

Students are expected to make up any assignment missed when they are absent. This includes absences due to suspension.

FCAT

FCAT scores affect students in third grade reading (for promotion purposes). Students in third grade must score in Level 2 or higher on FCAT reading to be promoted to fourth grade. There are also alternative assessments and good cause exceptions that apply.

Textbooks

Textbooks will be issued for all appropriate courses. Books are the property of the Big Pine Neighborhood Charter School. As such, students must pay for any books which are lost or damaged.

Lunch Schedule

Pre-K                          10:30am - 11:00am

Kindergarten Lunch      11:00am - 11:30am

First Lunch                   11:20am - 11:50am

Second/Third Lunch     11:30am - 12:00am

School Lunch Prices

                                                Breakfast                                  Lunch  

Full Price Meal

Students                                   $1.25                                       $1.75

Adults                                      1.25                                         $3.00

 

Reduced price meal

Students                                   $0.30                                       $0.40

 

A la carte                                 Milk  $.75                                Juice  $.5