Student and Family Handbook

Transcription

Student and Family Handbook
Student and Family Handbook
2015-16 School Year
KIPP Believe Primary
421 Burdette St. New Orleans LA
504-266-2050
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Table of Contents
Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................................3
Welcome Letter from the School Leader ..........................................................................................................4
About KIPP New Orleans Schools......................................................................................................................5
About KIPP Believe Primary ...............................................................................................................................8
Policies and Procedures ........................................................................................................................................ 15
Academic Policies .............................................................................................................................................. 15
Attendance ......................................................................................................................................................... 16
Discipline and Behavior.................................................................................................................................... 18
Enrollment .......................................................................................................................................................... 31
Health and Safety Policies ............................................................................................................................... 32
Property Expectations ...................................................................................................................................... 34
Travel to and From School ............................................................................................................................... 36
Other School Policies........................................................................................................................................ 37
Appendix ................................................................................................................................................................ 40
School Calendar .................................................................................................................................................. 41
School Supply Lists .............................................................................................................................................. 42
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Introduction
Welcome to KIPP New Orleans Schools!
Whether you are a new or a returning family, we are excited to work with you and your child on their path to
and through college. At KIPP our mission is to empower all of our students with the knowledge and skills they
need to find success in college and the world beyond.
This Student and Family Handbook provides answers to the most important questions about life at KIPP New
Orleans Schools. The Handbook reflects federal, state and local law and policy and also contains many policies
that are uniform across all KIPP schools in New Orleans.
Our hope is that this Handbook will provide answers to most of your questions, but if you are looking for more
information, please contact your school’s principal or front office staff.
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Welcome Letter from the School Leader
Dear KIPP Believe Primary Families,
We are very excited and honored to be working with you and your student this year, and the many
years to follow!
At KIPP Believe Primary we make you a solid promise—the promise that in working together we will
see your student to and through college. While college may seem a long way off, we believe it is our
shared responsibility to ensure that our students are set up with the knowledge, skills, character, and
habits necessary to graduate from college and positively shape our community and our world.
We recognize that reaching this goal will take a tremendous amount of teamwork on the part of our
families, our staff, and our students. The name of the school is deliberate, to reflect this dedication to
working together as a team, placing an emphasis on the importance of our school community.
A large part of having a strong community is having excellent communication. This Handbook is a first
step in gaining clarity and providing you with important information. We want to ensure our families
understands the policies and procedures that we’ve designed to help us provide a consistent, safe, and
excellent learning environment for our students.
If ever you have any questions or concerns, please call the school; we are always happy to assist in any
way that we can. Thank you for your continued support and we welcome you to KIPP Believe Primary,
where together we will accomplish much!
Love and thanks,
Sarah Beth Greenberg
School Leader
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
About KIPP New Orleans Schools
Mission and Vision
KIPP New Orleans Schools exists to empower all students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in
college and the world beyond.
Our vision is that, one day, all public schools will help children develop the knowledge, skills, character, and habits
necessary to achieve their dreams while making the world a better place.
History
KIPP New Orleans Schools began in 2004 as a collection of New Orleans residents – parents, teachers, business
leaders, and civic leaders – dedicated to providing high quality educational options in New Orleans. The founding
group was drawn together by a shared commitment to education and a belief that a rigorous education will
provide students a path to a life full of choices. In the spring of 2005, the group was granted a charter by the
Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
KIPP New Orleans’s first school, KIPP Phillips Preparatory, opened its doors in July 2005 to a class of 120 eighthgrade students in the former E.H. Phillips Middle School building, near the St. Bernard housing projects. After
three weeks of summer school and two weeks of regular classes, the school was brought to an abrupt end by
Hurricane Katrina.
The week after the hurricane, KIPP students who evacuated to Houston shelters called their teachers’ cell phones
to ask for help enrolling in school in Houston. KIPP staff members traveled to Houston and spent several days
walking through shelters at the Astrodome, Reliant Center, and George R. Brown Convention Center to search for
their students. They quickly saw the need for education options for New Orleans children who had evacuated to
Houston.
KIPP New Orleans staff members worked closely with KIPP Houston Schools to open a new school specifically for
New Orleans residents who evacuated to Houston. That school was named New Orleans West (NOW) College
Prep. The school opened on October 3rd, 2005 and served over 450 students in grades Kindergarten through
8th. In 2006, KIPP families and staff returned to New Orleans to open KIPP Believe College Prep and KIPP
McDonogh 15. Ten years later, KIPP New Orleans Schools enrolls more than 4,400 students in grades
Kindergarten through 12th at ten schools across the city.
KIPP New Orleans Schools is a Louisiana not-for-profit organization with a local board of directors and is part of
the national Knowledge Is Power Program (KIPP) network of schools. For more information about KIPP New
Orleans
Schools,
visit
www.kippneworleans.org,
like
us
on
Facebook
at
www.facebook.com/KIPPNewOrleans, or follow us on Twitter at @KIPPNO.
Knowledge Is Power Program (KIPP) Network
KIPP began in 1994 with a powerful idea: to create a classroom that helped children develop the knowledge,
skills, character and habits necessary to succeed in college and build a better tomorrow for their communities.
Founders Mike Feinberg and Dave Levin began by redefining what was possible for a classroom of public school
students in Houston. The following year, they opened two KIPP middle schools, one in Houston and one in New
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York City. By 1999, these original KIPP public charter schools were among the highest-performing schools in their
respective communities.
In 1999, Don and Doris Fisher, founders of The Gap, gave their support to replicate KIPP in other communities.
As KIPP opened new schools in more cities, expanding from middle schools to elementary and high schools, our
network began helping transform futures of thousands of children and families in underserved communities.
There are currently 162 KIPP schools in 20 states and the District of Columbia serving 59,000 students.
Nationally, more than 94 percent of KIPP middle school students have graduated high school, and more than 82
percent of KIPP alumni have gone on to college.
There are 80 KIPP middle schools (grades 5-8), 60 elementary schools (grades K-4), and 22 high schools (grades
9-12). Students are accepted regardless of prior academic record, conduct or socioeconomic background.
KIPP schools are public charter schools that operate in accordance with a license agreement with the KIPP
Foundation. Day-to-day operations are managed by KIPP local charter management organizations that hold the
charters.
For more information about the national KIPP network, visit www.kipp.org.
KIPP Through College Program
The KIPP Through College (KTC) program is an essential part of the KIPP education. The goal of KTC is to
provide ongoing academic and organizational support to empower all KIPP alumni to achieve success in high
school, in college, and also as they transition into the competitive professional world.
From KIPP’s inception, college graduation has been our north star. When students choose KIPP, they are choosing
a commitment to academic excellence and perseverance no matter the obstacles, and in return, KIPP promises
to support each student through the rigorous journey of getting to and through college. We believe that our
students can and will have the option to graduate from 2-year and 4-year institutions. We are dedicated to
providing the resources necessary to ensure they persist in climbing the mountain to and through college.
In middle school, the KIPP Through College (KTC) program begins by advising KNOS students and their families
throughout the high school transition process. In high school, KNOS students and alumni receive support from
College Advisors in the following areas: academic advising, standardized test preparation, summer program
support, college tours, college admissions and application assistance, scholarships, and financial literacy. College
Advisors guide alumni to matriculate to “the right match” college by complementing the support they receive at
their high schools.
In college, Alumni Advisors support KNOS alumni by visiting them on their college campuses, in addition to
remaining in contact via email and phone. Advisors discuss academic progress, financial aid, social pressures, as
well as internship and career options to support alumni as they work toward graduation.
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
KIPP New Orleans School Directory
KIPP Believe Primary
Grades Served: Kindergarten – 4th
Founding Year: 2011
School Leader: Sarah Beth Greenberg
Address:
421 Burdette Street, 70118
Building Name: Banneker
Phone Number: 504-266-2050
KIPP Believe College Prep
Grades Served: 5th – 8th
Founding Year: 2006
School Leader: Luke Naegele
Address:
9330 Forshey Street, 70118
Building Name: Dunbar
Phone Number: 504-304-8857
KIPP McDonogh 15 Primary
Grades Served: Kindergarten – 4th
Founding Year: 2006
School Leader: Mark Burton
Address:
721 St. Philip Street, 70116
Building Name: McDonogh 15 (Morial)
Phone Number: 504-592-8520
KIPP McDonogh 15 Middle
Grades Served: 5th – 8th
Founding Year: 2006
School Leader: Deanna Reddick & Anthony Cognata
Address:
5500 Piety Drive, 70122
Building Name: Coghill Modulars (Morial)
Phone Number: 504-609-2280
KIPP Central City Primary
Grades Served: Kindergarten – 4th
Founding Year: 2008
School Leader: Korbin Johnson
Address:
2625 Thalia Street, 70113
Building Name: Guste
Phone Number: 504-373-6290
KIPP Central City Academy
Grades Served: 5th – 8th
Founding Year: 2008
School Leader: Alex Jarrell
Address:
2514 Third Street, 70113
Building Name: Woodson
Phone Number: 504-609-2283
KIPP Leadership Primary
Grades Served: Kindergarten – 4th
Founding Year: 2011
School Leader: Colin Smith
Address:
2300 St. Claude Avenue, 70117
Building Name: Colton
Phone Number: 504-308-3359
KIPP Leadership Academy
Grades Served: 5th – 8th
Founding Year: 2010
School Leader: Herneshia Dukes
Address:
2300 St. Claude Avenue, 70117
Building Name: Colton
Phone Number: 504-373-6256
KIPP East Community Primary
Grades Served: Kindergarten – 1st
Founding Year: 2014
School Leader: Jennifer Carey
Address:
4500 Mendez Street, 70126
Building Name: Coghill Modulars (Abrams)
Phone Number: 504-301-2964
KIPP Renaissance High School
Grades Served: 9th – 12th
Founding Year: 2010
School Leader: Joey LaRoche
Address:
3820 St. Claude Avenue, 70117
Building Name: Douglass
Phone Number: 504-373-6255
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About KIPP Believe Primary
Our Mission.
KIPP Believe Primary is built on the belief that accountable schools constructed on a foundation of
thoughtful college-focused planning and strong neighborhood partnerships have the ability to transform
communities from within.
At KIPP Believe Primary we empower our young scholars with academic knowledge and community
support while cultivating strong character and values. Our scholars gain the tools needed to advocate
for themselves, their friends and families in order to become respectful leaders who ultimately succeed
in ending generational poverty within their community.
Our Vision.
KIPP Believe Primary creates a school environment where all children are safe, successful and free to
take risks in order to become their best selves. Highly trained and compassionate teachers provide our
scholars the knowledge, skills and experiences they need to become not only academic achievers, but
also artists, scientists, authors, athletes, community organizers and agents of change.
Our scholars will be held to high literacy standards, be taught through rigorous instruction, engage in
hands on service learning and be exposed to dynamic learning experiences. We believe this will lead
our students to develop a deep love for education and literacy, internalize a sense of social
responsibility focused on improving the world around them and feel committed to their own success
and the success of others as they become the active leaders of tomorrow.
Our School Values.
 PRIDE
 LOVE
 PERSISTENCE
 JUSTICE
Our Credo.
At KIPP, we believe.
We believe in the creation of inspired lives
produced by desire, discipline, and dedication.
We are not frightened by
the challenges of reality
but believe that we can change our world
and our place within it.
We work, plan, create, and dream.
Our talent, character, and integrity
will be the tools we need
to build a better tomorrow.
We believe that we can take this place,
this time, and the people here and
build a better place, a better time,
and a better people.
As a team and family,
we will either find a way, or make one.
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Pride
“Tortoise smiled as his friends carried him on their
shoulders. He had learned an important lesson:
HARD WORK AND PERSEVERANCE BRING
REWARD.”
Janetscholars
Stevenswho work hard everyday,
We believe we are honorable
do our best at all times, and have PRIDE in ourselves, our
future and our Team and Family.
Kindergarten Key Student Messages:
 I am proud of myself, my school and my community.
 I am proud of who I am, where I come from and where I
am going.
 I am a lifelong learner.
First Grade Key Student Messages:
 I actively participate at all times because I am a lifelong
learner.
 I am a positive role model in my school.
 I am a positive role model in my community.
Second Grade Key Student Messages:
 I am eager to explore new things.
 I actively listen to others.
 I ask and answer questions to deepen my understanding.
Third Grade Key Student Messages:
 I am honest and open with my team and family I actively
listen to others.
 I take responsibility for my actions.
 I do the right thing when no one is looking.
Fourth Grade Key Student Messages:
 I am always learning and growing.
 There is no perfect person, only perfect practice.
 I ask and answer questions to examine things from all sides
before making judgments.
Adult Reflective Questions:
 Am I operating in a way that I would want my scholars to
emulate?
 Am I thinking about how others may perceive KIPP or Believe
Primary?
 How can I learn from this challenge and emerge a stronger and
wiser person?
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Love
“Once there was a tree, and she loved a little
boy.”
Shelcommunicators
Silverstein who show LOVE by
We believe we are effective
building strong relationships that help us better understand and
help members of our Team and Family.
Kindergarten Key Student Messages:
 I show love by respecting myself and asking for help.
 I show love by giving help.
 I show love by respecting my community.
First Grade Key Student Messages:
 I value close relationships with others.
 I maintain and create new relationships.
 I give to help others be the best they can be.
Second Grade Key Student Messages:
 When I make good choices, good things happen.
 I recognize and show appreciation for others.
 I recognize and show appreciation for my opportunities.
Third Grade Key Student Messages:
 I work hard to bring smiles to other’s faces.
 My cup is half full.
 I laugh and look on the bright side.
Fourth Grade Key Student Messages:
 I work hard each day to be my best self.
 I help others become their best selves.
 I recognize and show appreciation.
Adult Reflective Questions:
 Am I questioning or doubting this person’s commitment?
 If I were to start with an assumption that this person is
competent and committed, how else would I understand
their actions?
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Persistence
"I think I can. I think I can. I think I can. I know
I can."
Watty
Piper solvers who are solutionWe believe we are persistent
problem
oriented, and show PERSISTENCE by learning from our
mistakes and never giving up.
Kindergarten Key Student Messages:
 I never, ever give up.
 I learn from my mistakes.
 When there is a problem, I work to solve it.
First Grade Key Student Messages:
 I succeed when I work hard to share my Inner Beauty.
 I take risks to solve problems.
 I get knocked down, but I get up again.
Second Grade Key Student Messages:
 I speak the truth, even when it is hard.
 I come from a place of love when solving problems.
 I finish what I start.
Third Grade Key Student Messages:
 I work independently with focus.
 I work hard after experiencing failure.
 I finish what I start.
Fourth Grade Key Student Messages:
 I will not give up on myself.
 I will not give up on others.
 I will not give up on this world.
Adult Reflective Questions:
 Which, if any, of the challenges that I’m perceiving are within my
control to influence?
 Are there ways to expand what’s in my control so that I can do
even more to help my students/ colleagues/families handle the
challenges they are encountering?
 Are there any possible downsides to take on this challenge,
given my current relationship or the ways in which I’m already
perceived?
 From this situation, what can I learn and how can I grow?
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Justice
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot,
nothing is going to get better. It's not.”
Dr. Suess
We believe we are respectful revolutionaries who PURSUE
JUSTICE and will be the change we wish to see in the world.
Kindergarten Key Student Messages:
 I own my actions.
 I think about my choices and make good decisions.
 I do the right thing when no one is looking.
First Grade Key Student Messages:
 I embrace similarities and differences.
 I treat everyone fairly by giving them what they need to be
successful.
 I give EVERYONE a second chance.
Second Grade Key Student Messages:
 I make choices to be the best I can be.
 I make choices to help my team and family be the best
they can be.
 I make choices to help the world be the best it can be.
Third Grade Key Student Messages:
 I get over frustrations and setbacks quickly.
 I respectfully stand up for my teammates and myself.
 I look out for myself, my teammates and my family.
Fourth Grade Key Student Messages:
 I lead to create change in my life.
 I lead to create change in my school.
 I lead to create change in the world.
Adult Reflective Questions:
 Am I trying to figure out the other person’s intentions and the
challenges they are up against?
 What strengths and resources do this person possess, are there any
that I may be ignoring? How can I genuinely acknowledge and build upon
these strengths and resources in my work with this person?
 Am I thinking about my contribution to the program, how am I coming
across, or the impact I am having?
 What steps can I take to avoid getting bogged down in the deficits that
I perceive this person or situation has?
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.

How can I learn about these things while helping this person understand what I intended and the impact their
actions are having on me?
2015 – 2016 Commitment to Excellence Form
Teachers’/School Leader’s Commitment:
We will fully commit to KIPP Believe Primary in the following ways:
 We will be accountable for our student results, doing whatever it takes to teach the knowledge and
skills, nurture the confidence and character, and inspire the passion needed for our students to achieve
their goals, live their best lives as their best selves, and positively impact the world.
 We will work to improve our craft to best meet our students, families, and teammates’ needs.
 We will be available and respectful to families and students by phone and in person.
 We will arrive by on each day and work hard until the end of the day.
 We will participate fully in grade level meetings, staff meetings, and professional development.
 We will attend summer professional development sessions.
 We will live by example and teach the values of KIPP Believe Primary every day.
 We will work purposefully and intentionally to meet our professional and student achievement goals and outcomes.
 We will follow and adhere to school policies and procedures outlined in both the Staff and Family Handbooks.
We understand that not fulfilling these commitments will result in consequences, including possible release
from duties.
X_____________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Commitment:
We will fully commit to the KIPP Believe Primary school community in the following ways:
 We will help our child in the best way we know how and will do whatever it takes to support him/her in learning the
academic skills, the character traits and participating in the learning experiences needed for our him/her to thrive in
primary school through college.
 Every night, we will read with our child, check his/her homework, and sign daily communication sheets.
 We will call the teacher if we have a question or concern about the homework in order to complete all assignments.
 We will make ourselves available to our children and the school in order to address any concerns.
 We will give permission to and make sure our student attends KIPP Believe Primary every day and all field trips. If
our child is going to miss school, we will notify the teacher as soon as possible.
 We give permission for our child to participate in all supplemental instruction as needed.
 We will make sure our child follows the KIPP Believe Primary dress code.
 We understand our child must follow the KIPP Believe Primary rules and values in order to protect
the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the school. We will be responsible for the behavior
and actions of our child.
 We will make sure that our child arrives on time at KIPP Believe Primary everyday prepared to learn
Monday through Friday and stays throughout the instructional day, including supplemental instruction
opportunities.
 We will attend and participate in all mandatory meetings and conferences.
 We will arrange for our child to remain at school until the end of the school day every day.
 We will follow and adhere to school policies and procedures outlined in the Family Handbook.
We understand that not fulfilling these commitments will result in consequences including loss of privileges for
my child and possibly loss of placement for my child at the school.
X_____________________________________________
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Student’s Commitment:
I will fully commit to KIPP Believe Primary in the following ways:
 I will always come to school prepared to work hard, be nice, be safe, make good choices, and live the
values of KIPP Believe Primary.
 I will do whatever it takes for my fellow scholars and me to learn.
 I will complete all my homework well every night and seek help if there is a problem with my
homework.
 If I need help I will ask. If a teammate needs help, I will give it.
 I will always behave so as to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom.
 I will follow the teachers' directions and accept the consequences for breaking rules.
 I will follow the KIPP Believe Primary dress code.
 I will make sure that I arrive at KIPP Believe Primary on time every day Monday through Friday or board a KIPP
Believe Primary school bus at the scheduled time.
 I will remain at school until the end of the day every day.
 I am responsible for my own behavior and choices.
I understand that by not fulfilling these commitments, I will receive the consequences of the school’s behavior
code, including loss of privileges at the school.
X_____________________________________________
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Policies and Procedures
This document contains the most important policies and procedures governing the operations of KIPP schools in
New Orleans. This document, along with the KIPP New Orleans Schools Pupil Progression Plan (PPP) are the
guiding policy documents for KIPP New Orleans Schools.
Student and Family Handbook
This Student and Family Handbook explains the rights and responsibilities of all members of the school
community in order to provide students a safe, positive, supportive, and achievement-oriented learning
environment.
The policies in this Handbook apply to actions of students during school, on the way to and from school, while
on school property, while traveling in vehicles sponsored by KIPP New Orleans Schools, at all school-sponsored
events, and on social networking websites and other internet correspondence.
Pupil Progression Plan
The Pupil Progression Plan (PPP) describes many of the academic policies related to student placement,
promotion, and remediation. Many, but not all, of the policies in the Pupil Progression Plan are contained in this
document. If you would like to view the full Pupil Progression Plan, it is available in the front office at each KIPP
school, or online at www.kippneworleans.org.
Academic Policies
KIPP Believe Primary Curriculum Overview
KIPP Believe Primary has a student-centered, constructivist approach to instruction. In each block of the day,
scholars are pushed to solve problems independently or with peers and given ample work time to practice skills
on their own level. We have a balanced approach to literacy instruction—ensuring that scholars are pushed to
understand high level text as well as given guidance with texts at their reading level. Some of KIPP Believe
Primary’s curricular resources include Lucy Calkins Reading and Writing Workshop, Cognitively Guided
Instruction (Math), Math Investigations (K-2), Eureka Math (3-4), and Words Their Way (phonics). In order to
serve all scholars at different ability levels we strategically group scholars throughout the day for
intervention. At KBP every child gets what they need to be successful every day.
Homework Policy
Homework folders are sent home daily Monday-Thursday and parents are expected to sign the daily log.
Scholars receive weekly homework packets with assignments Monday-Thursday and weekend homework
packets for Friday-Sunday.
Student Records and Privacy
KIPP New Orleans Schools takes student data privacy seriously and follows regulations contained in the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Louisiana data privacy laws. Pursuant to ACT 677 and ACT 837
of the 2014 Louisiana Legislative Session, KIPP New Orleans Schools posts information regarding the transfer of
students’ personally identifiable information (PII) to private entities who provide student and other educational
services to them. Please visit the “Student Data Privacy” section of www.kippneworleans.org for more details
about how student information is shared.
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Attendance
Regular attendance at school is a primary factor in student success. We believe that in order for students to
succeed, they must attend school and arrive on time. The following section outlines policies and procedures
governing attendance.
School Start and End Times
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
7:15 AM – 3:45 PM
Wednesday
7:15 AM – 2:00 PM
Please refer to the Appendix for the school’s annual calendar.
Types of Absences
Excused absences are absences incurred due to personal illness or serious illness in the family (documented by
acceptable excuses), which are not considered for purposes of truancy. Students with excused absences are
eligible to make up work and tests and receive credit for work completed on those days. Absences are
considered unexcused until the school receives proper documentation of the absence. Absences are excused for
the following reasons:
1. Personal illness (as verified by a written note from a physician, dentist, or nurse practitioner licensed
to practice in Louisiana)
2. Death in family (not to exceed one week, as verified by a written note from the parent)
3. Natural catastrophe and/or disaster
4. Participation in school-approved off-site activity
5. Absence for the observance of recognized holidays of the child’s own faith (as verified by a written
note from a religious official)
6. Any other extenuating circumstance as approved by the school leader
Unexcused absences are any absence not meeting the requirements set forth in the excused absence definitions
below. All absences are considered unexcused until documentation of an excuse is provided to the school.
Students are required to make up work missed during unexcused absences.
Suspensions are absences in which a student may not make up work and may be given failing grades for
missed work. The absence is considered when determining whether or not a student may or may not be
promoted, but is not considered for purposes of truancy.
Procedure for Excusing Absences
If a child is going to miss school for any reason, it is the parent’s responsibility to call 504.266.2050 by
8:30 AM to report the absence.
For an absence to be marked excused, parents are required to submit a note to the student’s teacher
the day the child returns to school.
Absences, late arrivals and early pick-ups will not be excused, except for the following situations:
Acceptable Excuse
 Illness

Religious observance

Student’s medical appointment (that is
impossible to schedule outside of school
hours)
Documentation Required
Note from doctor (if over 3 days)
Official letter from religious organization
Note from doctor
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

Extreme family emergency (death or medical Note from doctor
emergency of immediate family member)
Official documentation
Other extreme emergency approved by
Principal
Truancy
KNOS reserves the right to refer truant students and their parents to the Office of Child Welfare and
Attendance at the Louisiana Department of Education or the RSD/OPSB Youth Opportunity Center. These
agencies investigate violations of the compulsory attendance laws, and when necessary, provide parents and
guardians written notice, either in person or by registered mail, of legal action to be taken and next steps in the
adjudication process.
If a student has been absent for 10 days due to medical issues and has a doctor’s excuse to miss school, the
student shall be referred for review by the Response to Intervention Team to determine need for referral for
Section 504 services if the student has not previously been identified as a student with a disability.
The school leaders or designee will notify the parent or legal guardian on or before a student's third unexcused
absence to convene a meeting with the parent and student and/or refers the student to the Response to
Intervention Team for truancy interventions. KNOS considers arriving late to school four times as the equivalent
of one unexcused absence. Tardiness also includes leaving or checking out of school unexcused prior to the
regularly scheduled dismissal time.
Per RSD policy, students absent for 15 consecutive schools days may be dropped from the school’s roster.
Checkouts from School
1. Students who leave school for any reason must sign out through the Main Office.
2. Students may only be signed out by persons whose name(s) appear on the student registration
database unless the school receives permission in writing by the parent/guardian in advance.
3. Written permission is to be given by the parent/ guardian or “emergency person” shown on the
registration database before each checkout. Picture identification must be presented.
4. Students will not be allowed to check out after 3:00 PM unless for reasons approved by the School
Principal in advance.
School Assignments During Absences
When a student returns to school after an excused absence, the student shall have the opportunity to complete
missed assignments. Make-up work shall be permitted only when written excuses from parent/guardian have
been received in accordance with this policy.
A student who is absent five (5) or more days in any quarterly grading period must make up missed work
before the end of the grading period or the student shall receive an incomplete grade. The student can make
up work during the next nine-week grading period, but if he/she fails to do so, the incomplete grade
automatically becomes a failing grade. It shall be the responsibility of the teacher to inform the student of the
deadline for any make-up work.
Students missing school as a result of any suspension shall be counted as absent, considered unexcused, and
shall be given failing grades for work missed in compliance with State Statute Bulletin #741. If a suspension is
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modified or reversed through the suspension appeal process, related absences will be excused and the students
will receive make-up work for those excused days.
Absences and Retention
Students with more than 15 unexcused absences per year (or the pro rata equivalent based on their date of
enrollment) may be considered for retention.
Discipline and Behavior
KIPP New Orleans Schools is committed to using positive behavior supports and effective tools,
strategies and incentives to ensure a safe and orderly school environment and a caring school culture.
In accordance with Louisiana’s mandate for the implementation of a School Master Plan for Discipline,
KNOS’ school-based leadership teams monitor discipline incidents and referrals by month, time,
location, student, grade level and type of incident.
Infractions and Corrective Strategies
Discipline incidents will be classified as Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 infractions. The tables below
identify the KIPP New Orleans Schools behavioral expectations, examples of expected behaviors, types of
infractions and potential corrective strategies.
In the effort to fully implement Positive Behavior Support and reduce the loss of instructional time due to out-ofschool suspension and expulsion, KNOS utilizes a wide variety of corrective strategies that do not remove
children from valuable instructional time when appropriate. Corrective strategies also include referral to and
collaboration with outside agencies and with court appointed workers for students involved with the juvenile
justice system.
Level 1 Infractions - Productive Personal Environment
Behaviors that occur in the classroom and affect only the misbehaving student.
Behavioral
Expectations
Be Safe
Be Responsible
Examples of
Expected
Behaviors
Walk in hallways
Arrive to class on time and
participate in class
1.1 Horseplay or running in the
hall/class
1.2 Throwing objects
1.3 Out-of-assigned
seat/table/area
1.4 Inappropriate items in class
1.5 Passive non-compliance i.e.,
sleeping, refusing to participate
1.6 Unexcused tardiness and
absenteeism to class
1.7 Cheating or plagiarism
Level 1
Infractions
Be Respectful
Follow the teacher’s directions
and use positive language with
peers
1.8 Profanity/cursing
1.9 Disrespect of an adult
1.10 Disrespect of a peer
1.11 Disruption in class, on school
grounds, on school bus or RTA
bus
1.12 Any other infraction that the
School Leader deems to be similar
in severity to other Level 1
infractions
1.13 Ongoing commission of Level
1 infractions
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First Infraction
 Re-teach the behavioral expectations
 Have the student apologize and make amends with those affected
 Provide a reflective activity
Possible
Correctives
Strategies
Corrective Actions for Repeated Infractions:
 Contact and/or conference with parent/guardian
 Implement a home/ school communication system
 Utilize check-in/check-out
 Loss of privilege
 Implement a behavior contract that includes expected student behavior, incentives for
demonstrating expected behavior and consequences for infractions
 Refer to the school social worker
 Refer the student for tiered interventions through the Response to Intervention Team
 Detention
 Use of in-school intervention
 Bus suspension
Level 2 Infractions - Productive Classroom and School Community Environment
Behaviors that occur in the classroom or within the school community that affect a misbehaving student and
threaten to or interfere with the learning of others, and behaviors that are non-compliant with reasonable
requests and directions by an adult in the school, despite clear understanding of expectations and an attempt to
redirect by an adult.
Behavioral
Expectations
Be Safe
Be Responsible
Be Respectful
Examples of
Expected
Behaviors
Solve problems peacefully
Take care of school property and
ask before borrowing other
people’s property
Consider other people’s feelings
and respect personal space
2.4 Unauthorized display or use of
a cell phone or other disallowed
electronic property during school
hours
2.5 Stealing/possession of stolen
property
2.6 Vandalism
2.7 Willful Disobedience
2.8 Making a threat
2.9 Physical assault without bodily
harm
2.10 Leaving school grounds
without permission
2.11 Any other infraction that the
principal deems to be similar in
severity to other level 2
infractions
2.10 Ongoing commission of
Level 2 infractions
Level 2
Infractions
2.1 Fighting or instigating a fight
2.2 Using or possessing tobacco
products, matches or lighters
2.3 Possession of fireworks
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For level 2 Infractions, the following steps must be implemented:
Possible
Correctives
Strategies
1. MANDATORY parent contact to inform parent of accusation and status of investigation. Parent will be
given the option to attend the student conference.
2. MANDATORY student conference and school-level investigation.
3. MANDATORY confiscation of disallowed property during school hours
If the principal determines that discipline action is warranted:
3. MANDATORY school level conference with student, parent, principal or designee and staff member(s)
involved determining and implementing appropriate corrective strategies.
4. Referral to the Response to Intervention Team for tiered interventions, counseling, and/or completion of a
Functional Behavioral Analysis (FBA) and implementation of a Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP)
5. MANDATORY suspension or alternative to suspension
Level 3 - Orderly and Safe Environment
Behaviors that occur inside and outside the classroom and negatively affect an orderly environment. These
behaviors are generally not intended to cause physical or mental harm to another individual and are not
necessarily illegal. Behaviors that are intended to cause another individual serious physical or mental harm
and/or are illegal.
Behavioral
Expectations
Examples of
Expected
Behaviors
Level 3
Infractions
Be Safe
Be Responsible
Be Respectful
Ask for help if you are not safe
Be cooperative in the event of an
emergency
Understand when the answer given
to you is, “No”
3.6 Causing false fire alarms or
making bomb threats
3.7 Extortion
3.8 Theft of property
3.9 Inciting Violence
3.10 Failure to follow instructions
during school-wide lockdown or
emergency.
3.11 Bullying
3.12 Burglary
3.13 Robbery
3.14 Possession of a dangerous
instrument or the use/display of an
instrument deemed by others to
be dangerous
.3.15 Any other infraction that the
principal deems to be similar in
severity to other Level 3
infractions
3.16 Ongoing commission of Level
3 infractions
3.17 Conviction of a felony or
conviction of an offense which, had
it been committed by an adult,
would have constituted a felony.
3.18 Use of electronic device to
repeatedly threaten, intimidate, or
bully another student or to share
sexually explicit material.
3.1 Coming to school under the
influence of drugs or alcohol
3.2 Aggravated assault to another
student or school district
employee with serious bodily harm
3.3 Inappropriate and unwanted
sexual behavior
3.4 Starting a fire
3.5 Use of any object to harm,
frighten or intimidate others
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For level 3 infractions, the following steps must be implemented:
1. MANDATORY parent contact to inform parent of accusation and status of investigation. Parent will be given
the option to attend the student conference.
2 MANDATORY student conference and school level investigation.
If the principal determines that a recommendation for long term suspension is warranted:
Possible
Correctives
Strategies
3. MANDATORY conference with the parent, student and appropriate school staff
4 Referral to the Response to Intervention Team for tiered interventions, counseling, and/or completion of a
Functional Behavioral Analysis (FBA) and implementation of a Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP)
5. MANDATORY conference with and referral to school social worker for student assessment, referral to
emergency mental health treatment and/or implementation of school based treatment plan, and connection to
outside agencies for support
Corrective Strategies
Create home/school communication system
Re-teach the behavior expectations
Have the student apologize and make amends with those harmed or offended
Provide meaningful reflective activity
Loss of privilege
Create a behavior contract that includes expected student behavior, incentives for demonstrating
expected behavior and consequences for infractions
Check-in/check-out
Arrange linkage with a counseling agency
Detention
Short-term suspension or alternative to suspension
Long term suspension
Possibility of recommendation for expulsion
Level 4 – Expellable Offenses
Behaviors that are illegal, defined and regulated by Louisiana education law, and extremely harmful to the
misbehaving student and/or others, including possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of a controlled
substance, and assault with maiming.
1. Weapons - A student carries a weapon to or possesses a weapon at school, on school premises, or
to or at a school function under the school’s jurisdiction.
2. Drugs - A student knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs, or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance,
while at school, on school premises, or at a school function under the school’s jurisdiction;
3. Serious Bodily Injury - A student inflicted serious bodily injury upon another person while at school, on
school premises, or at a school function under the jurisdiction of the State or KNOS.
Behavioral
Expectations
Be Safe
Be Responsible
Be Respectful
Examples of
Expected
Behaviors
Ask for help if you are not safe
Be cooperative in the event of an
emergency
Understand when the answer
given to you is, “No”
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
Level 4
Infractions
4.1 Possession, use, or
concealment of illegal drugs at
school or school related
activities
4.2 Possession of a dangerous
weapon
4.3 Assault with maiming
4.4 Sexual Assault
4.5 Well-documented and ongoing commission of serious acts
that threaten the safety of
others.
4.6 Any other infraction that the
principal deems to be similar in
severity to other Level 3 or level
4 infractions
For infractions involving possession, use of concealment of illegal drugs and firearms, the following steps
must be implemented.
1. MANDATORY student conferences and school-level investigation.
Possible
Correctives
Strategies
If the principal determines that a recommendation for expulsion is warranted:
2. MANDATORY parental contact.
3. MANDATORY school level conference
4. Possible referral to outside agencies such as Police, FINS and/or Juvenile Justice authorities.
5. MANDATORY recommendation for long-term suspension or expulsion and interim placement.
6. MANDATORY referral to RSD Hearing Office for any student recommended for expulsion.
School-wide Behavior System Description and Process
KIPP Believe Primary Rules: Work Hard, Be Nice, Be Safe
Kindergarten through Second Grade
Character Management System: Color Chart System (Red to Purple)
 Scholars all start the day on Green—in Kindergarten and 1st Grade Colors Reset after lunch to
Green, 2nd Grade colors are cumulative per day
 Scholars have the opportunity to move up to Blue for following rules and meeting all expectations.
 Scholar who are on Purple are making exceptional choices without reminders or going above and
beyond to live the values (examples: Scholar without prompting helps a friend clean up Math materials,
Scholar finishes work early and gets a Beyond Z workbook so not to waste any learning time)
Data Collection:
 Morning: Teachers drop Green, Blue, and Purple Scholars off at recess and then drop their
Reflection Scholars at the Reflection Tables in the Cafeteria and give their Morning Clipchart to the
Reflection Coach. Teacher will get the kids set up for their reflection. The Reflection Coach will
set the timer, get kids started, and enter the morning data in Kickboard for all classes (K-1). 2nd
Grade Morning Data will not have to be entered into Kickboard as the color for the day in
cumulative.
 Afternoon: Teachers leave their Afternoon Clipchart in tact at the end of the day. Fellows will
circulate to their assigned classrooms to enter data into Kickboard daily.
Communication with Families:
 Kindergarten and 1st Grade: Afternoon and Morning Color will be displayed as well as
anecdotal notes from teacher about the choice made to warrant color (examples: Dot had a hard
time using safe hands in the morning. Dot was really helpful to friends during Math today!).
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2nd Grade: Only Cumulative Color Displayed with anecdotal notes from teacher about the
choices made to warrant color (Change to Paycheck system in January).
Parents receive a same-day phone call from the teacher if ever they end the day on
Red (NOT during instructional time).
Minor Misbehavior STEPs:
STEP 1 (Color System):
 Scholars who are Yellow have had at least 2 redirection (one verbal or nonverbal warning and one
verbal warning/clip change)
 Scholars who are on Orange have had 3 redirections for a series of minor misbehaviors
 Scholars who are on Red have 4 or more redirections and/or have had major misbehavior that
warranted moving directly to Red
STEP 2 (Take a Break):
 Scholar should be asked to move to Take a Break to think about their choices and told that they
may rejoin the community after they have reflected (example: Thomas, please go to take a break. You
have been putting your hands on friends and that is not safe. Please think about how you can use your
hands in a safe way and you can come to the community when you have finished your reflection)
 Teacher should give the child a reflection sheet and 2 minutes alone to calm down and get started
on the reflection (unless the scholar needs extra time to deescalate a tantrum). After 2 minutes,
either the teacher, a support, the Oprah should engage in a Coaching Conversation (to be no more
than 5 minutes).
 Scholar should be invited back to the community and asked to apologize for the choice that they
made as well as name what they will do differently to “turn it around.” The community will affirm
the friend coming from reflection by saying “We love you, we believe in you, and we won’t give up
on you!”
STEP 3 (Buddy Classroom):
 If a scholar makes another poor choice after integration back into the community, they should be
asked to Take a Break in another designated classroom (Buddies will be predetermined).
 The teacher, a support, or an Oprah should escort the scholar to the Buddy Classroom (teachers
can text Admin if assistance is need) and should set up scholar with reflection sheet and timer for 5
minutes.
 Buddy Teacher should give the child a reflection sheet and 2 minutes alone to calm down and get
started on the reflection (unless the scholar needs extra time to deescalate a tantrum). After 2
minutes, either the Buddy teacher, a support, the Oprah should engage in a Coaching
Conversation (to be no more than 5 minutes).
 Scholar should be invited back to the Buddy community and asked to apologize for the choice that
they made as well as name what they will do differently to “turn it around.” The community will
affirm the friend coming from reflection by saying “We love you, we believe in you, and we won’t
give up on you!”
 At a natural transition (and no longer) to the next academic block the Buddy teacher, a
support, or an Oprah should escort the scholar back to homeroom where they will be welcomed
back to their community.
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NOTE: Scholar can earn the opportunity to move up on the color chart
STEP 4 (Referral to AP or SSC):
 If a scholar makes another poor choice after integration back into the community, the teacher
should ask the scholar to move from the community and wait while a paper referral is being
completed. The teacher should fully complete the Character Referral and either call an AP or
escort the child to the AP. If the scholar is enrolled in College Club the referral should go to the
Scholar Support Coordinator.
o Kindergarten through First Grade: Elissa Collins
o Second through Fourth Grade: Rachael Parker
o College Club: Ashley Lynn Seatter
 At this point, the AP or SSC will also engage in a coaching conversation with a scholar and make a
phone call to the parents. If it is the scholar’s first referral, the AP or SSC will attempt to
reintegrate the child into the classroom and observe the scholar for at least 15 minutes to ensure
that they are have turned it around.
 Upon the 2nd referral to the AP or SSC, the admin will call the parent and require a Parent Teacher
Conference to make a plan for aligning home and school systems, to refer to RTI, or to refer to
counseling services (Dr. Bell or Nancy King). If the parent cannot be contacted, scholar will be
removed from the class for the remainder of the day, and the parent must come to the school the
following day to have a Parent Teacher Conference.
 Upon the 3rd Referral to the AP or SSC, the admin will call the parents and complete paperwork
for a suspension. If the scholar can be suspended the same day (and the infraction has occurred
before lunch), then the parent must pick up the child to serve the suspension that day. If the
parent cannot be contacted, scholar will be removed from the class for the remainder of the day,
and the parent must come to the school the following day to sign the suspension documentation.
Reflection Room:
If we are not able as a school to contact a family same-day of infraction, and a scholar has been been
referred to the AP, they are not able to rejoin their community that day and must spend the remainder
of school hours in the Reflection Room (back room in Main Office). Between the members of the
administration we will work out monitoring of the scholars in that room. There will be leveled work
prepared for that room.
Consequences
Morning Consequences: Silent Recess Reflection in Cafeteria at 2 tables (Lead by a teacher or
counselor)
Scholars are completing leveled Recess Reflection Workbook housed in the cafeteria along with pencils,
sharpener, and elapsed time-timer.
Red: Miss entire recess
Orange: Miss 10 minutes of Recess
Yellow: Miss 5 minutes of Recess
Afternoon Consequences: Work through Free Choice Centers
Scholars are completing work that was not completed from the day at a small group with the teacher. If more
than 20% scholars are on Yellow or below the Free Choice Center time should be used for whole group practice
for routines or procedures.
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Red: Miss entire Free Choice Center time
Orange: Miss 10 minutes of Free Choice Center time
Yellow: Miss 5 minutes of Free Choice Center time
Major Misbehavior STEPs:
Major Misbehavior Include but are not limited to any behavior with a malicious intent to hurt others or
property such as: physical aggression, verbal aggression, emotional aggression, or electronic aggression
(the specific behaviors related to these categories are outlined on the KBP referral document).
NOTE: Any behaviors that could be interpreted as suicidal, homicidal, or sexual in nature must be
reported immediately to the AP, SSC, and Social Worker. If there is a scholar who is in crisis in this
way, the teacher must not leave the scholar alone, but should escort the scholar to admin, or send
another scholar or teacher to Ms. Green (front office) to page an administrator with the appropriate
code immediately.
STEPs for Automatic Red:
Some behaviors, in Kindergarten through Second grade, are an automatic Red and Take a Break in the
classroom, but would not necessarily warrant an automatic referral. These behaviors include but are
not limited to: minor physical aggression (does not lead to injury), minor profanity, minor stealing, etc.
STEPs for Automatic Referral:
 If a scholar commits a major misbehavior, the teacher should ask the scholar to move from the
community and wait while a paper referral is being completed. The teacher should fully complete
the Character Referral and either call an AP or escort the child to the AP. If the scholar is enrolled
in College Club the referral should go to the Scholar Support Coordinator.
o Kindergarten through First Grade: Elissa Collins
o Second through Fourth Grade: Rachael Parker
o College Club: Ashley Lynn Seatter
 At this point, the AP or SSC will engage in a coaching conversation with a scholar and make a
phone call to the parents. If it is the scholar’s first referral, the AP or SSC will attempt to
reintegrate the child into the classroom and observe the scholar for at least 15 minutes to ensure
that they are have “turned it around.”
 Upon the 2nd referral to the AP or SSC, the admin will call the parent and require a Parent Teacher
Conference to make a plan for aligning home and school systems, to refer to RTI, or to refer to
counseling services (Dr. Bell or Nancy King). If the parent cannot be contacted, scholar will be
removed from the class for the remainder of the day, and the parent must come to the school the
following day to have a Parent Teacher Conference.
Upon the 3rd Referral to the AP or SSC, the admin will call the parents and complete paperwork for a
suspension. If the scholar can be suspended the same day (and the infraction has occurred before
lunch), then the parent must pick up the child to serve the suspension that day. If the parent cannot be
contacted, scholar will be removed from the class for the remainder of the day, and the parent must
come to the school the following day to sign the suspension documentation.
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Suspensions
A suspension, in which the student is not allowed to attend school for a designated period of time, is a serious
and formal corrective strategy a school may take if a student commits a Level 2, 3 or 4 infraction.
All students shall be treated fairly and honestly in resolving grievances and complaints, and in the consideration
of any suspension or expulsion. For Student Code of Conduct infractions that may warrant a suspension or
recommendation for expulsion:
1. The school must conduct a student conference and school-level investigation within a 24 hour period.*
Investigation includes taking written statements (or helping with the writing of a statement) from
teachers and other students who were witnesses to the incident.
2. Prior to any suspension or recommendation for expulsion, the principal or designee must inform the
student of the “particular” misconduct of which he/she is accused and the basis for the accusation. **
3. Prior to any suspension or recommendation for expulsion, the principal or designee must give the
student an opportunity to present his/her version of the incident and ensure the student’s version is in
writing. The principal or designee may call witnesses requested by the student. The principal or designee
shall make a reasonable effort to reach a fair determination of the incident before making any
disposition. **
4. The school must contact the parent/guardian by telephone on the day of the incident and no later than
the following day or send a certified letter giving notice of the suspension, the reason for the suspension,
and the date and time of a conference to be conducted within 5 days with the principal or his/her
designee.**
5. The school must give the parent/guardian notice in writing of the suspension and the reason for the
suspension.** The written notification must include information about the parent’s right to review any
evidence that will be presented at the Hearing.
6. The student shall remain in school until the end of the school day unless released into the care of a
parent/ guardian. No student should be sent home without proper documentation of the particular
misconduct and reason for suspension.
7. In extraordinary circumstances, the principal or designee is authorized to call law enforcement
personnel to transport the student home and/or to a designated facility, including juvenile detention.
8. Any parent/guardian of a suspended student shall have the right to appeal a suspension to the KNOS
Executive Director or designee. The decision of the Executive Director is final.
9. The school must hold a school-level conference conducted with the principal or designee,
parent/guardian, and the school social work specialist within a reasonable time. All students have the
right to fair and reasonable treatment during disciplinary proceedings and the opportunity to present
evidence and defend his/her actions. Your child has a right to bring a representative of his/her choice to
all disciplinary proceedings. If a parent encounters a problem with discipline procedures and/or fair
student treatment, the parent may contact the Student Support Office.
*RSD Policy / ** Louisiana State Law
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Appeal of Suspension
Any parent/guardian of a suspended student shall have the right to appeal a suspension to the KIPP New
Orleans Schools Executive Director or designee. The Executive Director or designee will conduct a hearing to
review the suspension and make a decision based on the merits of the case. The decision of the Executive
Director shall be final. Parents of students with disabilities who disagree with any long-term removal for
disciplinary reasons have the right to request a due process hearing.
To appeal a suspension upheld by the Executive Director, the parent must submit a written statement of
appeal request within five (5) school days after the beginning date of the suspension to the LDE Hearing Office
with a copy of the disciplinary action form (Notification of Suspension). After formal notification of the request,
the hearing officer will assess the merits of the case. The decision of the Hearing Officer shall be final.
Expulsions
Expulsion is defined as “a removal from all regular school settings for a period of not less than one school
semester.” Any student, after being suspended for committing an expellable offense, may be expelled upon
recommendation by the school principal and approval by the RSD Hearing Officer. The principal may
immediately suspend and recommend for expulsion a student who commits one or more of the following
expellable offenses:
o Distributing, selling, giving away, or loaning any controlled dangerous substance governed by the Uniform
Controlled Dangerous Sub- stances Law, or any prescription drug not pre- scribed to the accused student, or
any chemical substance that affects the central nervous system and produces stimulant, depressant,
euphoric, or hallucinogenic effects to the mind or body
o Carrying, possessing, or using a firearm, knife with a blade of two inches or longer, or any other instrument
of which the purpose is lethal force
o Sexual assault and other sexual acts where the ability of one party to consent is compromised by age,
intellectual ability, intoxication, or incapacitation
o Intentional battery or assault on any individual using a weapon, or which causes serious, documentable
injury that necessitates medical care
o Engaging in an intentional physical altercation with a member of the school staff that does not rise to the
level of battery, does not involve using a weapon, and does not result in serious, documentable injury
necessitating medical care
o Possessing any controlled dangerous sub- stance governed by the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances
Law, or any prescription drug not prescribed to the accused student, or any chemical substance that affects
the central nervous system and produces stimulant, depressant, euphoric, or hallucinogenic effects to the
mind or body
o Possession or use of any implement/substance with the ability to seriously harm another person
o Robbery of an individual on school property or at any activity over which the school has jurisdiction
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o Engaging in consensual sexual acts on school property or at any school-sponsored activity
o Well-documented and on-going commission of serious acts that threaten the safety of others
o Sharing sexually explicit material, including through the use of an electronic device
o Theft of school property or the personal property of individuals on school property or at any activity over
which the school has jurisdiction
No student who has been expelled shall be admitted to any public school in any other parish or city school
system in the state except upon the review and approval of the governing authority of the school system to
which he seeks admittance.
Due Process Procedures for Expulsions
A principal cannot expel a student. A principal can recommend a student for expulsion. If a principal
recommends a student for expulsion the student will be suspended pending a hearing for a recommendation for
expulsion. The student will then have an expulsion hearing, in which the RSD Student Hearing officer will
determine if the recommendation for expulsion is upheld, reversed, or modified.
The due process procedures for recommendations for expulsion hearings are as follows:
1. The process begins with the commission of an offense that could be grounds for expulsion. From this
point, the student will not be permitted to voluntarily transfer to a new school until they are either
cleared of the accusation, serve an expulsion or the incident is reported to the hearing office as waiving
the school’s right to recommend for expulsion.
2. The school is responsible for the continual provision of FAPE**. During the investigation and hearing
process, the student may remain on suspension, but the suspension may not exceed the maximum
number of days allowed by law. If a student poses a risk to the welfare of others, the student may
serve in-school suspension or receive homebound instruction.
3. The principal or designee conducts a student conference and school-level investigation within three (3)
school days .* Investigation includes collecting written statements from staff and student witnesses.
4. Prior to any long-term suspension or recommendation for expulsion, the school principal or designee
must inform the student of the “particular misconduct of which he/she is accused” and the basis for the
accusation. **
5. Prior to any long-term suspension or recommendation for expulsion, the principal or designee must give
the student an opportunity to present his/her version of the incident. The student’s version must be
written or summarized and signed by the student. The principal or designee may call witnesses
requested by the student. The principal or designee shall make a reasonable effort to reach a fair
determination of the incident before making any disposition. **
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6. The parent must be notified by phone, in person or by certified letter of the incident, immediate
suspension, possible recommendation for expulsion, and a proposed time to meet within five days on
the day of the incident and no later than the following day.
7. The student shall remain in school until the end of the school day unless released into the care of a
parent/ guardian. No student should be sent home without proper documentation of the particular
misconduct and reason for suspension. In extraordinary circumstances, the principal or designee is
authorized to call law enforcement personnel to transport the student home and/or to a designated
facility, including juvenile detention.
8. If a principal chooses to recommend a student for long-term suspension or expulsion, the KNOS
Executive Director and Director of Student Support Services must be notified prior to submitting any
documentation to the Student Hearing Office. All required paperwork must be thoroughly reviewed by
the Director of Student Support Services prior to submission to the RSD Hearing Office.
9. If a principal chooses to recommend a student for expulsion, the appropriate paperwork must be
submitted to the Student Hearing Office within 24 hours of completing the investigation, including but
not limited to:
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Student Incident form
Witness Statements
Police Report
Expulsion Recommendation form (474)
LDOE Behavior Report Form
Expulsion Recommendation checklist
Notification of expulsion and right to appeal
(Failure of a school to submit the paperwork to the RSD within 24 hours of the incident could result in
allowing the student to return to the school.)
10. Within 24 hours after completing the investigation, the parent must be provided with written
notification of the recommendation for expulsion, the reason for the recommendation for expulsion,
information about the hearing to determine whether the student is expelled, and the parent’s rights.
The student remains on suspension from school and school activities until the hearing takes place.
11. A hearing will be conducted by the RSD Student Hearing Officer or designee within three (3) days. The
principal or teachers as well as the student,* may be represented by someone of their choice at this
hearing. If the hearing officer decides that a hearing will not be conducted, the school may appeal that
decision to the Deputy Superintendent of Portfolio.
12. After the hearing, the RSD Student Hearing officer or designee then makes a determination of the
student’s guilt based on the evidence gathered during the school’s investigation. If found guilty, the RSD
Student Hearing Officer will determine the appropriate length of expulsion according to RSD expulsion
guidelines, and the expulsion is effective immediately.
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13. The parent(s)/legal guardian(s) of the student may, within five (5) school days after the decision to
expel a student has been made, request in writing that the KIPP New Orleans (KNOS) governing board
review the findings of the RSD Student Hearing Officer or designee.* Otherwise the decision shall be
final.
14. The KNOS board may uphold, modify or reverse the decision.
15. If the KNOS board upholds the decision of the RSD Student Hearing Officer or the designee, the
parent(s)/legal guardians of the student may, within ten (10) days, appeal to the parish court in which
the student’s school is located. The parish court may reverse the ruling of the local educational
governing authority.
*Louisiana State Law / ** Federal Law
Referral to and Action by Law Enforcement and Judicial Authorities
KIPP New Orleans Schools refers any student who has committed a Level 4 offense (and some level 3 offenses)
to law enforcement officers, including the reporting of a crime committed by a student with a disability.
School personnel reporting a crime committed by a student, especially a student with a disability must ensure
that copies of the special education and disciplinary records of the student are transmitted for consideration by
the appropriate authorities to which the agency reports the crime. Records must be transmitted only to the
extent permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
Civil Rights, Harassment and Bullying
KNOS defines bullying as aggressive behavior that involves unwanted, negative or discriminatory
action; a pattern of behavior repeated over time, and an imbalance of power. KNOS does not tolerate
derogatory comments and name-calling, social exclusion or isolation, physical aggression, lies and false
rumors, extortion and stealing of money and property, or forced acts. KNOS prohibits the
harassment, intimidation and bullying of a student by another student in accordance with Louisiana’s RS
17-416.13.
Harassment. It is expected that no forms of mental, physical, sexual and/or verbal abuse and
harassment toward another person will take place. If a student observes an incident involving
harassment, it is his/her responsibility to report the incident to a staff member. Anyone reporting an
incident has the right to have his/her identity remain anonymous. Students may also report an incident
of harassment by writing an anonymous letter to the staff.
Physical Touch. Students are to keep their hands and feet to themselves at all times. This includes, but is
not limited to, public displays of affection, horseplay, pushing, shoving or bumping into each other.
Dependent upon the severity, no touch violations can be minor or major violations of the school
discipline policy.
Threats. It is expected that no student would make threats against individuals, groups, or the school.
Threats of any nature will be taken seriously and may be reported to the proper authorities, as
required by law. In addition, KNOS reserves the right to impose a consequence up to and including
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expulsion from the school when a student has caused a major disruption and emergency situation
because of a serious threat.
Cyber Bullying. KNOS students are prohibited from the transmission of any electronic, textual, visual,
written or oral communication with the malicious and willful attempt to coerce, abuse, torment, or
intimidate a person under the age of 18.
Discipline for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities receive extra legal protections when discipline constitutes a change in placement. If a
student violates behavior expectations, before consequences or punishment are imposed, the principal/designee
must consider whether the student has an IDEA or Section 504 disability; or is a student who is “thought to
have a disability.” While all students may be disciplined, the placement of students with disabilities cannot be
“changed” when the offense is directly related to his/her disability or when the IEP or Section 504 plan is not
implemented, except in the case of emergency and expellable offense circumstances (drugs, weapons,
significant bodily injury).
KIPP New Orleans Schools special education teams are proactive in addressing any behavior and socioemotional concerns of students with disabilities.
After the first suspension the school will:
1. Conduct a Functional Behavior Analysis (FBA).
2. Develop and implement a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) to address the behavior that resulted in
suspension.
3. Conduct a conference with parent/guardian.
After the second suspension, the school will:
1. Reconvene the IEP Team to discuss/review the academic, social, and behavioral needs of the student
2. Conduct a FBA and develop/implement an individual BIP only if the behavior exhibited is a new
behavior. If the behavior is a repeated behavior, review/revise the BIP to address the behavior.
3. Discuss, review, and revise the IEP, as needed, to address the behavior resulting in the suspension.
After the removal of a special education student for more than 10 school days (consecutive or cumulative) for
disciplinary reasons, the student must be provided with procedural safeguards. This includes a Manifest
Determination Review meeting to discuss the student’s disability, behavior, implementation of services and
determination of placement.
Enrollment
Participation in EnrollNola system
All KIPP New Orleans Schools follow the calendar and policies of the New Orleans Common Application
Systems (referred to as OneApp or EnrollNOLA). There are no admissions requirements to attend KIPP schools
(including prior academic performance, prior behavior record, special education status or language spoken). For
more information on the Common Application System, please visit www.enrollnola.org.
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Withdrawal and Transfers
Withdrawal and transfers to and from KIPP schools are governed by the Common Application System. All
transfers between schools in the EnrollNola system are governed by the Recovery School District. A student is
considered enrolled at a KIPP school until:
1. a transfer to another school has been confirmed by the EnrollNOLA system, or
2. the school has received documentation of enrollment from a non EnrollNOLA school, or
3. the student has had 15 consecutive unexcused absences from school
Health and Safety Policies
Immunizations
At the start of each school year the nurse is responsible for review of all vaccination records for entering
Kindergarten students, new students and for all updated vaccination records for returning students. The
nurse works closely with the State Department of Health, utilizing the Louisiana Immunization Network
for Kids Statewide (LINKS) database. Immunization information is entered into the state immunization
database and reports are generated that show which immunizations are due. Parents should update
immunization records for students as needed.
Medical Information
At the start of each school year, parents are responsible for submitting a health information form for
each child. Students with chronic conditions that require medical treatment or adaptations during the
course of the school day may sign a release of medical information form to access medical records.
Parents who wish the nurse to administer any treatments or medications (including over the counter
medications) must submit a medication administration order form signed by their Louisiana physician. All
forms can be retrieved from the school nurse.
Illness
Parents will be contacted immediately for any child who is at school with any of the following symptoms:
fever, vomiting, diarrhea, uncontrolled asthma, ringworm, unspecified rashes, pinkeye, head lice,
infectious disease, moderate trauma. Scrapes and minor bruises will be attended to at school and child
will return to class. Children with the above symptoms must be picked up within a reasonable amount
of time. Return to school will require a physician’s release note.
Students seen by the nurse will have an assessment or referral note sent home in their folder. The nurse
will call parents with health findings and recommendations as needed.
Any student suspected of having any of the above will be excluded from school until satisfactory
treatment has been given. Discretion is used to check other students in classes where there is an
outbreak. Written notice will be sent home regarding outbreaks.
Chronic Illness/Allergies
All students with chronic conditions such as: asthma, allergic reaction, diabetes, respiratory distress,
seizure disorder, urinary frequency or incontinence must meet with the nurse at the beginning of the
school year to discuss a health/emergency care plan which must accompany orders signed by the child’s
physician for medication or treatment in school. The nurse will communicate with the school
administrative team as necessary to implement the plan. The Director of Food Services will be notified
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in writing of any students with food allergies or intolerance. The front office will be notified of students
that may present with medical emergencies so that swift intervention may be implemented.
Emergency Procedure/Severe Injury Policy
A student sustaining severe or life threatening injury or illness at school will be triaged by the nurse and
transported to an appropriate medical facility. Parents will be notified prior to transfer and the students
will be accompanied by trained school personnel if parent is not available immediately. In the event parent
is unavailable to ride in ambulance with child, parent is expected to meet staff at the respective hospital.
Student Medication
No medication can be administered or consumed at school unless both a doctor and a parent/guardian
have completed the appropriate forms. KIPP Believe Primary strongly encourages families to dispense
both temporary and maintenance medications outside of school hours. Ask your physician for a
medication schedule that will accomplish this. In those few cases where this is not possible, please
bring in the medication to the main office.
The medication needs to be in the original container with the appropriate prescription label (including
the name of the student, the name of the medicine, the date, the dosage information, and directions for
administering the medication) and the appropriate Student Health Authorization for Administration of
Medication Form.
We store and administer the medicine in a secure location. Please be aware that the medication
cannot travel back and forth to school – once it’s given to us for your child’s use, it must remain with
us until it needs to be refilled. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to ask for two separate
prescriptions when at the doctor’s office with your child. Students are not allowed to have medication
(prescription or non-prescription) of any kind in their possession at school and it should not be placed
in their bookbags. Adults should bring the medication to the nurse. For further information on
medication or any health related issues please call us.
Reporting a Child’s Sickness
If your child is going to miss school because of illness, please call the school as soon as possible. All
student absences should be followed up the next day with a note signed by a parent, guardian or
doctor. KIPP staff will call to verify all student absences. Please let the school nurse know if there are
any medical concerns or special circumstances of which we should be aware.
Safety Expectations
Emergency Closings. At times, emergencies such as severe weather can disrupt school operations. In
extreme cases, these circumstances may require the closing of the facility. In the event that such an
emergency occurs during school hours, we will post over local radio and/or television stations. We
will also post all school closures on the KIPP New Orleans Schools website
(www.kippneworleans.org).
Fire Drills. Instructions for Fire Drills are posted in each classroom and schools conduct fire drills on a
regular basis.
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Emergency Evacuations. If an emergency is not immediately time-sensitive, parents or guardians are
called to retrieve their children. If students need to be removed from the property for safety reasons,
they will be accompanied by teachers to the nearest, open public space. Should these plans not be
feasible, the School Leader will request the local fire station to assist the school in sheltering the
students and in reaching parents or guardians to make arrangements for them to retrieve their
children.
Lockdown: If there is an immediate threat to the school due to an emergency outside of the building, an
intruder or threat of violence within the building, school leaders may enact a school-wide lockdown.
During this time, parents will not be able to enter the school building and may not be able to contact
their child.
Property Expectations
School Property Expectations
Students are responsible for respecting and maintaining all school property and equipment. Students
are thus expected to keep school property clean and in proper working order. This includes books
and other learning materials that are to remain free of writing or damage while in students’ care. If
school property or materials are damaged or lost, the student accepts responsibility for paying to
repair or replace the items.
Personal Property Expectations
KIPP New Orleans Schools create an environment that provides privacy and respects all property.
Students bring personal belongings at their own risk. The best protection against loss or theft is avoid
bringing personal property to school unless necessary, and to clearly mark all clothing and equipment
with the student’s name. Items found distracting to the learning environment may be confiscated by
school staff and returned to the parent at the school’s discretion.
Cell Phone Policy
Students who are in Kindergarten, First Grade and Second Grade are not permitted to carry a cell
phone to school at any time.
If Third Grade and Fourth Grade students elect to bring a cell phone to school, it must be turned off
and out of sight for the entire school day.
 The first time any cell phone is seen or heard by a KNOS staff member, the telephone will be
confiscated and kept in the front office until a parent or guardian visits the school to pick it up.
 The second time any cell phone is seen or heard by a KNOS staff member by the same student
the telephone will be confiscate and held in the front office until the end of the quarter.
 If any student is found to be viewing inappropriate content on their cell phone while at school,
the cell phone will be confiscated and held in the office until the end of the school year.
KNOS is not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen cell phones.
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Technology and Internet
Use of the KIPP New Orleans Schools computer network and other resources is a privilege that will
be extended to individuals who observe the expectations of acceptable use as outlined below. All
users are expected to:
 use the network only for educational purposes only
 use the network in a considerate and polite way at all times, particularly when communicating
with others
 use the network for legal purposes only: tampering with the computer hardware or software,
unauthorized entry into computers, vandalism or destruction of computer files, and violating of
copyright laws are prohibited.
 keep passwords and accounts private and respect the privacy of those of others.
KNOS uses a filtering system to track and monitor all computer use on the network. The filtering system is
designed to prevent access to educationally inappropriate sites. However, it is important to understand that no
solution is perfect. Due to the nature of the Internet and evolving technology, even with supervision we cannot
guarantee that students will not find their way to an inappropriate site. It is the student’s responsibility to
report the opening of any inappropriate site to the teacher and return to the educational topic
assigned.
Student Searches
In order to maintain the security of all its students, KIPP New Orleans Schools reserves the right to
conduct searches of students and their property. If searches are conducted, the school will ensure
that the privacy of the students is respected. School officials may search a student if there is
reasonable suspicion the student is in possession of an item that is illegal or against school rules.
Student vehicles brought on campus, student book bags, school desks and other school property are
subject to inspection and search by school authorities at any time without prior notice to students or
parents.
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Travel to and From School
Arrival and Dismissal Procedure
Arrival
 Students may be dropped off as early as 7:15 AM. The doors will open at 7:15 AM.
o Children will not be supervised or allowed into the building before that time as s/he will
not be supervised if dropped off early. KIPP Believe Primary is not responsible for
children dropped off before 7:15 AM.
 Between 7:15 and 7:30 AM parents may drop their student off at the gate on Pearl St.
 Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria from 7:15 to 7:45 AM. Parents may walk their students
to the cafeteria if they so choose.
 After 7:45 AM students are considered tardy. A parent must accompany the student to the
cafeteria to get breakfast, then to the Front Office where s/he will record the arrival time in the
Tardy Log.
 The student will not be permitted to class without a tardy pass from the Front Office.
Dismissal
 You must notify the Front Office of any changes to your scholar’s daily bus assignment by 2:00
PM daily and 1:00PM on Wednesday’s. For example, if you plan to pick up your scholar
when s/he usually rides the bus, you will call the front office by 2:00 PM so that we can make
the change.
o If we know the change by 2:00 PM then we are able to tell our staff in plenty of time.
o If you do not let us know the change by 2:00 PM, we cannot guarantee that the change
will happen.
 All students must be picked up between 3:45 and 4:00 PM.
o Parents may pick up their scholars at the gate on Pearl St. until 3:50 PM.
o After 3:50 PM parents may pick up their scholars in the cafeteria.
School Bus Expectations and Conduct
KIPP New Orleans Schools provides free transportation to all students who live more than one mile
from the school site. Transportation may consist of yellow school bus, Regional Transit Authority
(RTA) bus, or other means. Transportation to KIPP schools will be provided subject to eligibility and
fee guidelines.
Students must comply with KIPP New Orleans Schools behavior expectations while traveling on a
school bus to and from their homes or school-sponsored activities. If a student commits an infraction
covered in the Student and Family Handbook on a school bus or at the school bus stop, the school bus
driver/monitor will notify the principal who will complete an investigation and documentation as
needed. Based on the severity of the consequence, the principal’s discretion for consequences include
regular school-based consequences, as well as bus suspension and/or assigned seating.
If a child is suspended from the bus, it is then the parent/guardian’s responsibility to ensure that the
child gets to school on time. KIPP New Orleans Schools will also provide RTA fare for students who
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lose bus privileges. If a student with a disability receives a bus suspension, the school is responsible for
offering an alternative form of transportation to and from school.
Bus Stop Pick-Up Expectations
Please remember that all “Stop Times” are approximate and students should be at their assigned
stop 10-15 minutes prior to the assigned time. (Example - Published Stop time is 7:05 AM - be at
the stop no later than 6:50 AM).
Any student who misses the bus through no fault of Hammond’s Transportation will be responsible for
their own transportation to the school.
Hammond’s Transportation can be reached at 504-662-0261.
Students riding on Hammond’s Transportation buses will observe the route schedule published. Under
no circumstances shall a parent/guardian make arrangements with a driver and vice/versa with regard
to the published stop.
Permission to Walk Home
Permission for students to walk home without the escort of an adult is a sign of increased responsibility.
Students in grades 5-8 will be permitted to walk home with their parents’ written permission; students in grades
K-4 will be permitted to walk home with their older siblings and with their parents’ written
permission. Written permission forms signed by the student’s parents will be kept on file for the school year.
It is a parent/guardian’s responsibility to inform the school of any changes related to walking home.
All students who walk from school to home are expected to follow all school expectations during this transition,
as they would be on a school bus. Respect for traffic, other pedestrians, and neighborhood homes and
businesses en route to and from home is an important expectation of all students.
Other School Policies
Policy on Birthday Celebrations and Food
If your child’s birthday lands on a school day, s/he is allowed to wear professional attire rather than a
KIPP polo. The birthday child may not wear jeans or t-shirts, professional dress attire only. Students
are not mandated to dress in professional attire on their birthday, but they have the option to do so.
Dress Code Expectations
The purpose of our dress code is to ensure that students are able to fully focus their attention on their
education while they are at school.
1. Scholars will wear only gray or plaid pants, shorts, skirts and jumpers. All pants, skirts and shorts
must be an appropriate size and fit. Baggy pants and pants that are too long or big around the
waist will not be allowed. Skirts and shorts must be worn at the knee. Khaki bottoms are not allowed.
2. Scholars will wear a plain black belt without logo, design, or graphics. The belt should have a
simple buckle.
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3. Scholars will wear a KIPP Believe Primary polo shirt or button down shirt that is tucked in
(waistband should be visible). Undershirts need to be solid white, black or gray with sleeves that
do not stick out past the polo.
4. Scholars will wear pants on their waist. No underwear or boxers should be visible.
5. Scholars will wear black sneakers with no logos, designs, graphics, or lights. If shoes have laces,
they must be black and must be tied. If your scholar cannot tie his/her shoes, your scholar must
wear Velcro shoes.
6. Scholars will wear uniform sweatshirts and sweaters as part of the uniform. These are available for
sale in the Front Office. Non-uniform sweatshirts and sweaters are discouraged. Scholars must take
their hoods off their heads while in the building.
7. Earrings must be studs and smaller than a nickel. Scholars may only wear small chain necklaces
inside their shirt.
8. Scholars will not wear hats, bandanas, or other head coverings in the school building.
9. Scholars may not wear artificial nails.
KIPP Believe Primary reserves the right to change or modify the dress code as problems arise during the year.
Parent Teacher Organization
At KIPP Believe Primary, the Family Engagement Team believes that together we are a powerful voice
for children. With a “students come first” approach, we commit to building a bridge between our
school team, families and community in order to celebrate and advocate for every KIPP Believe
Primary scholar.
Through partnership and strong communication, we collaborate to execute meaningful events, effective
fundraising and enhanced learning experiences to ensure every child has the relationships, resources
and community connections they need to prepare them in graduating from college in four years.
V.O.I.C.E Meetings are a safe and productive space where the Family Engagement team will meet once
a month with all members to:
 Visualize school events.
 Operate with Urgency.
 Include all parties involved with our scholars’ journey to and through college in plans and
progress.
 Collaborate with our school’s staff and community members to provide every student with
enriching programs.
 Encourage all stakeholders to use their talents and strengths to take part in our mission.
Grievance Policy
KIPP New Orleans Schools has established the following grievance protocol to solve disputes or
complaints in a fair and prompt manner. The formal procedures described below may be implemented
only after the parties have engaged in an earnest attempt to resolve matter(s) informally.
Complainants should first schedule a conference with the immediately involved school staff member to
discuss the issue. For example, if the complaint is regarding math class, the parent should contact the
math teacher. The school reserves the right to redirect complainant(s) to the appropriate personnel if
this step has not been followed.
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If complainant(s) conclude that the initial response/course of action was insufficient, a meeting may
then be scheduled with the School Leader. The School Leader may choose to redirect the meeting to
the appropriate vice-principal or administrator that supervises the immediately involved staff member.
If this meeting is insufficient, the School Leader will arrange a meeting.
Prior to the scheduling of a meeting with the School Leader, complainant should provide to the School
Leader a letter that identifies:
a. the issue / concern / complaint;
b. what steps have been taken to resolve the situation;
c. the reason for the complainant(s)’ dissatisfaction with the decisions previously
rendered;
d. proposed solutions
If a resolution cannot be reached through a discussion with the School Leader, complainants(s) may
submit their complaint to the KIPP New Orleans School Support Center staff. The appropriate staff
contact information can be obtained through the school’s front office. The School Support Center
staff will work with the parent to seek resolution to the problem and make a decision regarding the
outcome of the grievance.
If a parent disagrees with the decision made by School Support Center staff, they may appeal the
decision to the Executive Director. The decision of the Executive Director will be final. The Board of
Directors does not consider individual parent grievances except in cases related to the alleged
violation of law.
School Visitors
We encourage parents and family members to have an active role in their child’s learning. Approved
visitors are welcome to observe classrooms according to the Visitor Policy below, unless scholars are
testing.
 All visitors to the school must report to the school office immediately upon arrival, sign in
when they arrive, and sign out when they leave.
 Visitors must wear our visitor’s tag at all times while they are on campus.
 No materials are to be dispersed on campus without prior approval by school administration.
 No person will be allowed to conduct or attempt to conduct an activity on school premises
that has not had prior approval by the School Leader.
 All classroom observations must be approved by the School Leader.
 Visitors are allowed on campus at the discretion of the School Leader.
Volunteers
Like visitors, volunteers are required to sign-in in the front office and sign a form that acknowledges
that they understand the policies and volunteer expectations of KIPP New Orleans Schools.
Volunteers working directly with children require background checks.
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Appendix
Lost & Found
KIPP Believe Primary will collect lost items and store them in the main office. Please call or stop by
the main office to claim lost property. If property is not claimed within 30 days it will be donated or
disposed of.
Teachers will write student names on jackets, sweaters, coats, etc. if not done so already to minimize
lost items. Work with your scholar to understand that he/she is responsible for his/her items!
Hurricane and Inclement Weather Notification
In the event of a hurricane or other expected inclement weather, every effort will be made to inform
families of school openings/closings. The KIPP New Orleans Schools website, www.kippneworleans.org
will have updated information. Local media will also be informed of school openings/closings due to
weather emergencies. Families may also call the emergency hotline phone number for updates: 504832-0619.
Emergency Notification
In the event of an emergency on campus that requires building evacuation where re-entry is prohibited,
KIPP Believe Primary will make phone calls and/or send text messages to families regarding student
safety and location.
Parent Observation Policy
In order to maintain the integrity of our school and classroom learning environment you must follow
this protocol to visit your scholar’s classroom.
1. Schedule a classroom observation through the front office at least 24 hours in advance.
2. At the scheduled time, sign in at the front office.
3. All parents must be escorted to classrooms with KBP staff member or child can be brought to
the main office to meet parent. When the appointed teacher or leadership team member
arrives in the office, walk with them to your scholar’s classroom.
The KBP Leadership Team reserves the right to not allow parents to observe classrooms who have a
negative or distracting impact on the classroom environment for either scholars or teachers. The KBP
Leadership Team can deny a classroom observation if there is reason to believe that a parents
intentions are not in support of our school, teachers or learning and may be a distraction to the
learning environment. Any parents in question will be walked out to their car to ensure they are not
left unneeded on the campus
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


5
6
7
9
10
11
12
13
14
7
9
10
11
12
13
17
18
18
20
21
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
24
25
26
27
28
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
8
13
14
15
16
17
15
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
22
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
29
M
T
W
F
S
S
M
1
2
3
23
APRIL
MAY
T
T
W
JUNE
T
F
S
S
1
6
7
8
9
10
2
4
5
6
7
8
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
25
26
27
28
29
30
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
27
28
29
30
30
31
4
Student and Staff Holidays
Notable Dates
Labor Day
September 7
First full day of school
October Holiday
October 8-12
Leadership Appreciation Week Feb. 15-18, 2016
Parent Data Dive Day A1
October 2
Teacher Appreciation Week
May 2-6, 2016
Thanksgiving Holiday
November 23-27
EOY Ceremony (K)
May 19, 2016
Winter Holiday
Dec. 21-Jan.4
Rising Up Ceremony (4)
May 19, 2016
MLK Day
January 18
Last day of school
May 18, 2016
Parent Data Dive Day A2
November 20
2015-2016
August 3, 2015
Academic Calendar
Daily/Weekly
Teacher Work Day
February 5
Mardi Gras Holiday
February 8-12
Family Meeting
Daily
Parent Data Dive Day A3
February 19
Dream Team Parent Volunteers
Daily
Spring Break
March 25-28
Value Celebration
Quarters
Key
Holidays
Weekly/Fridays
Teacher PD: No Students
Quarterly STEP Goal
Team & Family Event
Start
End
Report Card Conferences
K
1
2
Family Engagement Team Meeting
1st Aug. 3
Oct.7
October 2
1
5
9
End of Quarter
2nd Oct. 8
Dec. 18
November 20
2
6
10
3rd Jan. 5
March 11
February 19
3
7
11
4th March 14
May 18
May 19-20
4
8
12
Back to School Night - July 30 @ 5:30PM
Fall Fest - Oct. 29 @ 2:30 PM (ALL Grades)
A1 Parent Data Dive - Oct. 2 (ALL Grades)
Home Visits (Schedule during A1 PDD) - Oct.-Dec.
A2 Parent/Teacher Conf. - November 20 (ALL)
Winter Fest - Dec. 14 @ 5PM (Kindergarten)
Winter Fest - Dec. 14 @ 6PM (Grade 1)
Annual Team & Family Events
Winter Fest - Dec. 15 @ 5PM (Grade 2)
Winter Fest - Dec. 15 @ 6PM (Grade 3)
Winter Fest - Dec. 17 @ 5PM (Grade 4)
Community Helpers - Jan. 15
Mardi Gras Parade -Jan. 29 @ 10 AM (ALL Grades)
New Student Recruitment - Feb. 1-March 15
A3 Parent/Teacher Conf. - February 19 (ALL)
Pride | Love | Persistence| Justice
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.


3 & 4 Grade Saturday School (9AM to 12PM)
Early Release (12:00 PM)
Black History Program - Feb. 25 @ 5PM
Spring Fest - April 15 @ 2:30 PM
EOY Picnic - May 12 (First Grade)
EOY Picnic - May 16 (Second Grade)
EOY Picnic - May 17 (Third Grade)
EOY Ceremony - May 19 (Kindergarten)
Rising Up Ceremony - May 19 (Grade 4)
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.
School Supply Lists
Kindergarten
To bring to school and be used at school for your child and
classmates:

1 box of gallon size Ziploc bags with the slide lock

1 box of quart-size Ziploc bags with the slide lock

25 #2 Pencils

5 Large erasers

24-count crayons (3 boxes)

A clean cotton sock (to clean individual white boards)

3 boxes of tissues

2 large rolls of Paper Towels

1 large container of Hand sanitizer

2 Boxes of Wet Wipes

One change of clothes (to keep in cubby)
Second Grade
To bring to school and be used at school for your child and
classmates:

1 box of gallon size Ziploc bags with the slide lock

1 box of quart-size Ziploc bags with the slide lock

25 #2 Pencils

1 pair kids scissors

12-count colored pencils (2 boxes)

A clean cotton sock (to clean individual white boards)

3 boxes of tissues

2 large rolls of Paper Towels

1 large container of Hand sanitizer

2 Boxes of Wet Wipes

8 Expo Dry Erase Markers

3 glue sticks
Third & Fourth Grade
First Grade
To bring to school and be used at school for your child and
classmates:

1 box of gallon size Ziploc bags with the slide lock

1 box of quart-size Ziploc bags with the slide lock

25 #2 Pencils

1 washable school glue

4 oz24-count crayons (3 boxes)

A clean cotton sock (to clean individual white boards)

3 boxes of tissues

2 large rolls of Paper Towels

1 large container of Hand sanitizer

2 Boxes of Wet Wipes

4 Expo Dry Erase Markers
To bring to school and be used at school for your child and
classmates:

24-count colored pencils

5 composition books - Wide Ruled

24-count crayons (2 boxes)

8 Expo Dry Erase Markers

3 glue sticks

2 Index Cards - 3 x 5 - Ruled - White

10-count markers (thick)

1 package of construction paper

2 large rolls of Paper Towels

1 pair kids scissors

3 boxes of tissues

2 Wipes - Disinfectant

1 box of gallon size Ziploc bags with the slide lock

1 box of quart-size Ziploc bags with the slide lock
At Home To keep at home for homework assignments (Please let the teacher know of you will need help getting the materials listed below):









Child-Safe Scissors
Pencils (lots)
Large eraser
Glue sticks (6)
1 bottle Elmer’s glue
Crayons
Washable markers (pack of 8)
Reading books (students will need to read a minimum of 20 minutes every night)
Paper (for writing and drawing)
Work Hard. Be Nice. Change the World.

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