Student and Family Handbook
Transcription
Student and Family Handbook
Student and Family Handbook 2016-17 School Year KIPP CENTRAL CITY PRIMARY 2625 THALIA STREET 504.373.6290 Table of Contents Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Welcome Letter from the School Leader ........................................................................................................................... 4 About KIPP New Orleans Schools ...................................................................................................................................... 5 Policies and Procedures ....................................................................................................................................................... 10 Academic Policies ............................................................................................................................................................. 10 Attendance ....................................................................................................................................................................... 12 Discipline and Behavior .................................................................................................................................................... 15 Enrollment ........................................................................................................................................................................ 32 Health and Safety Policies ................................................................................................................................................ 32 Property Expectations ...................................................................................................................................................... 35 Travel to and From School ............................................................................................................................................... 38 Other School Policies........................................................................................................................................................ 41 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. You are part of a family of over 500 educators, 11 schools, 4500 students and thousands of alumni! 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. Welcome Letter from the School Leader Dear KIPP Central City Primary Families, We are very excited and honored to be working with you and your student this year, and the many years to follow. Opening in 2008, we began making the families of New Orleans 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. Our goal is to keep families in the KIPP Team & Family from Kindergarten through 12th grade by supporting their learning and development every day. Nine years after that original promise was made to the class of 2021, we back it up with the best team of educators in this city. Our team of teachers and support staff spend all of July here together making our classrooms the best that they can be for your child. We could not be more excited to welcome all of our children back and meet the new students. There is much to celebrate at KCCP! We remain one of the top open enrollment schools in the city and are very proud of the work our children are doing. In 2014-15 our 3rd and 4th graders were the highest performing students in all of KIPP New Orleans! Together our students and teachers achieved some of the highest LEAP scores in the city. In August we completed construction to beautify and enrich our courtyard with incredible playspace for our students. Our courtyard now offers students a variety of imaginative experiences, while our stairwells, entry ways, and front office received a gorgeous facelift that will inspire every child and parent that walks through our door. KIPP New Orleans teachers from across the city have done great work on our curriculum to make sure that every minute your child spends in our classrooms is time spent on challenging work. Next year we will add a Drama Program to our offerings for enrichment. We are THRILLED that KCCP’s own, Cassondra Bell will teach every KIPPster the art of acting, stage creation, costume design, and more! We look very forward to seeing our student performances throughout the coming school year. . Thank you for trusting us to support and grow your child. It is truly an honor and privilege to do this work with you. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the school; we are always happy to assist in any way that we can. In Relentless Pursuit of Growth & Excellence- Korbin Johnson Founding School Leader 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 children will have access to public schools that 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 2005 as a collection of New Orleans residents – parents, teachers and community 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. KIPP New Orleans’s first school, KIPP Phillips Preparatory, opened its doors in July 2005 to a class of 120 eighth-grade 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. Eleven years later, KIPP New Orleans Schools enrolls more than 4,600 students in grades Kindergarten through 12th at eleven schools across the city. KIPP New Orleans Schools (KNOS) is a Louisiana not-for-profit organization governed by a local board of directors. As part of the national Knowledge Is Power Program (KIPP) network of schools, KNOS is dedicated to empowering all students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in college and in life. 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 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 183 KIPP schools in 20 states and the District of Columbia serving 70,000 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. 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 for students has been our big goal. 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 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, ACT preparation, summer program support, college tours, college admissions and application assistance, scholarships, and financial literacy. 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. 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 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 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 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 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 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 Leadership Primary Grades Served: Kindergarten – 4th Founding Year: 2011 School Leader: Jenni Seckel Address: 2300 St. Claude Avenue, 70117 Building Name: Colton Phone Number: 504-308-3359 KIPP Renaissance High School Grades Served: 9th – 12th Founding Year: 2010 School Leader: Joey LaRoche & Towana Pierre-Floyd Address: 3820 St. Claude Avenue, 70117 Building Name: Douglass Phone Number: 504-373-6255 KIPP East Community Primary Grades Served: Kindergarten – 2nd Founding Year: 2014 School Leader: Jennifer Carey Address: 4500 Mendez Street, 70126 Building Name: Coghill Modulars (Abrams) Phone Number: 504-301-2964 KIPP Woodson High School Grades Served: 9th Founding Year: 2016 School Leader: Alex Jarrell Address: 2514 Third Street, 70113 Building Name: Woodson Phone Number: 504-609-2283 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 About KIPP Central City Primary Mission, Vision and Values KIPP Central City Primary builds the academic, social, emotional, and spiritual foundations that our students will need to pursue higher education, create their best selves, and have the POWER to transform their world. KCCP students will display a deep love of learning, belief in their own ability, empathy for others, and the POWER to transform their world. KIPP Credo: If there is a problem, we look for a solution. If there is a better way, we find it. If a teammate needs help, we give. If we need help, we ask. KIPP Central City Primary School Pledge: I am a KIPPster. I am the future. I will choose to make it a great day. I will choose to work hard and be nice. I will look for solutions. I will find a better way. I will help my teammates today. We will PERSIST! We will OWN OUR ACTIONS! We will WORK TOGETHER! To EXPECT THE BEST and REFLECT AND GROW. We are the future. We ARE KIPPSTERS! And I’m going to college in 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028! Our Values: Our values spell out the word POWER so that students will internalize the message that they have the POWER to overcome challenges and accomplish their goals. The values allow teachers and students to have a common language around expectations and create a sense of purpose among our children. Our School Values and Symbols are: POWER Persist Own your actions Work Together Expect the best Reflect and grow Our Vital Beliefs and Professional Commitment: We Persist. Transformative educators consistently model grit. We anticipate daily difficulties and commit to preparing and planning for EVERY CHILD, EVERY DAY We are not surprised by daily challenges and we expect to seek solutions EVERY DAY Many solutions will require more work for us and that is the sacrifice we make for our kids We consistently seek to identify and expand our locus of control to provide solutions for students We Own our Actions. Student outcomes depend on doing the right thing and owning results. We come to work every day, fulfill school-wide-responsibilities, and actively uphold adult expectations We demonstrate the mindset that “we have not taught until they have learned”, avoiding excuse making during times of struggle, and own 100% of our student learning. We take proactively and productively problem solve in our professional community. We embrace that part of being an excellent teacher is living up to the professional standards set by KIPP and we commit to setting a positive professional example for those around us We Work Together. Student outcomes depend on being an Accountable Community AND building great classrooms. When students don’t learn it is our TEAM’S responsibility to figure out why and take action to remedy situations that we can influence. We invest in collaboration and proactively look for ways to help because EVERY CHILD is OUR CHILD We intentionally build relationships by making teammates feel known, loved, and valued. We celebrate the success and accomplishments of all our colleagues and do not allow competition to detract from our Team and Family. We recognize that success comes from hard work and great teamwork! We Expect the Best. We put our students’ needs first and commit to EVERY CHILD, EVERY DAY. Student learning and behavior needs drive our lessons, pedagogy, and decision making EVERY DAY. We consistently communicate “belief messages” in our student interactions and avoid de-humanizing our students through yelling, sarcasm, or public shaming We approach every child with a “growth mindset” avoiding “fixed” language about achievement/behavior We build high quality relationships with students and families fostering their commitment to achievement We communicate our belief in children to all stakeholders and display love in all our interactions We consciously model for children the types of interactions we expect from them We Reflect and Grow. We find meaning /joy in our work & constantly reflect on our practice. We engage 100% in professional development time and reflect on our practice daily We approach teaching with a growth mindset and are willing to abandon practices that do not get results We take the work seriously without taking ourselves seriously We enjoy our children, celebrate our successes and value all the good that happens each day 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. KIPP offers language assistance services in person and over the phone. The Home Language Survey can be found in the annual student registration packet. Please contact your child’s school for more information. 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 online social networks 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 Central City Primary Curriculum Overview Academic Standards At KIPP Central City Primary, we use a combination of the Common Core State Standards and the Louisiana Grade-Level Expectations as our academic standards. All of our assessments are based off of these standards and all academic grades will be based on scholars’ performance on these standards. *Our Math, Reading, and Writing curriculums are based off of the Common Core State Standards *Our Science and Social Studies curriculums are based off of the Louisiana GLEs. *Our Arts curriculum is based off of national standards and self-created by our music and drama teacher. *Our Sports curriculum is self-created by our sports teacher with guiding input from KIPP programs across the country. Homework and Reading Logs Policy One of the keys to success at KIPP Central City Primary is the partnership between families and school. This partnership is important because it sends the message to our scholars that education and school is important. Having a family member that is involved in helping with homework and reading at home is a great way to support your child through school. As our scholars begin to “Climb the Mountain to College” we ask families to have daily involvement in their academic and behavior progress. At KIPP Central City Primary we expect the following things to take place EVERY DAY: Scholar homework is to be completed by the scholar EVERY NIGHT. No excuses. No shortcuts. Scholar reads with a family member EVERY NIGHT for at least 20 minutes. A family member MUST fill out the KCCP Reading Log in the homework folder EVERY NIGHT. A family member must sign the Classroom Behavior Chart or Paycheck Update EVERY NIGHT for a child to get full credit for homework. School newsletters, notes, flyers, and reminders need to be read and responded to when necessary. Families are required to check all homework assignments and sign that they have done so on the Daily Log every night once the assignments are complete. If a child is having a problem completing the homework assigned, parents and students are welcome to call their child’s teacher for assistance. Missing/Incomplete Homework: If a student does not do an assignment or hands in an incomplete assignment, the student may lose privileges during the school day, including recess and free choice time. All of these expectations are in place to ensure that your child has the greatest opportunity to succeed at KIPP Central City Primary. We look forward to partnering with all of our families to ensure that their child is successful academically and behaviorally this year. We appreciate your support and dedication to your child’s education. Grading System KIPP Central City Primary issues official report cards on a quarterly basis, as well as progress reports at various times throughout the quarter. We encourage families to be in frequent communication about academic progress with teachers prior to receiving official report cards. Report cards will be directly linked to KIPP Central City Primary Standards. The grading scale is based on the students’ mastery of the content standard as well as growth made on our standardized assessments (STEP Literacy Assessment & MAP Assessment). Student behavior and effort will also be reported on the report cards under character grades. Kindergarten uses the following grading scale: A – Exceeds grade level expectations B – Meets grade level expectations IP – In Progress toward meeting grade level expectations NI – Needs Improvement to meet grade level expectations U- Unsatisfactory performance, child is far below grade level expectations 1st – 4th Grade use the following scale: A – 90 – 100 B – 80 – 89 C – 70 – 79 D – 60 – 69 F – 59 or lower End of year reading STEP goals by grade level: Kindergarten: Pass STEP 3 or higher 1st grade: Pass STEP 6 or higher 2nd grade: Pass STEP 9 or higher 3rd grade: Pass STEP 12 or higher 4th grade: Pass S (equivalent of STEP 15) or higher 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. 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 Hours of Operation Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday **Dismissal process begins @ 3:55 PM Wednesday 7:40 AM – 3:40 PM** 7:40 AM – 1:15 PM Students may be dropped off as early as 7:00 AM to enter the school through the cafeteria door in the parking lot. Children will not be supervised in the building before 7:00 AM and KIPP Central City Primary is not responsible for children dropped off before 7:00 AM. Scholars must be dropped off at KIPP Central City Primary no later than 7:40 AM to be marked present/on time. Students not picked up after school by 4:00 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays (and 2:45 on Wednesdays) will be considered a late pickup, and parents/guardians will be contacted and the incident will be documented. If the issue persists, parent will Please refer to the Appendix for the school’s annual calendar. 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 Qualifying excused absences must be documented by authorized persons as outlined above. Official documents must be turned in by student and/or parent/guardian directly to the front office as soon as possible following excused absence. Parent notes for sick or medical related absences will not be sufficient to excuse an absence. 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 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and 12:30 PM on Wednesday, 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. 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 modified or reversed through the suspension appeal process, related absences will be excused and the students will receive makeup 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. KIPP New Orleans Schools do not condone or utilize corporal punishment. Please refer to the section titled “Discipline for Students With Disabilities” for additional information. In accordance with Louisiana’s mandate for the implementation of a School Master Plan for Discipline, KNOS’ schoolbased 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-of-school 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 Be Respectful Examples of Expected Behaviors Walk in hallways Arrive to class on time and participate in class Follow the teacher’s directions and use positive language with peers 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 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 Level 1 Infractions 1.1 Horseplay or running in the hall/class 1.2 Throwing objects 1.3 Out-of-assigned seat/table/area 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 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 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 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 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. 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” 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 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, FINNs 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 Our K-2 System: (Remember the Keys: positive, consistent, and visible) In grades K-2, each child starts the day with their clip or magnet on 5 Power Paws, or on a “5.” During instruction, the teacher uses positive narration, body language, proximity, private desists, and preventative measures based on matching to discourage an aversive behavior. If a child does not respond to these measures, their clip is moved down. As the child’s clip moves down, the consequences begin to escalate. KCCP In-Class Consequence Ladder (K-2) The following tracker is designed to communicate daily performance to students and families. 6- Student has gone above and beyond academically, socially, emotionally, & spiritually. 5- Student has consistently met the academic and behavior expectations of the class/school. Clip Status Consequence 4 Official verbal warning from the teacher. Teacher gives adjusting feedback on behavior. 3 In-class timeout. (7-10 mins) Student is isolated from group activity for a specific amount of time. 2 Loss of class privilege. (whole group lunch, recess, or free-choice centers) 1 Parent call and an apology reflection sheet. (Reflection sheet can be completed in a teammate’s room if needed) 0 Parent note on homework. Zero entered into KB consequence roster. In the case of a more serious “Community Violation”, students are subject to a consequence from the menu of logical consequences, losing a privilege or parent communication. Also see “Community Violation” expectations below in Discipline Policy. PARENT COMMUNICATION OF PROGRESS: At the end of the day teachers will fill-in student behavior points on their homework sheet to be reviewed by parent. Though there is also a place for a note to a parent to explain student final behavior rating, teachers are encouraged to call families nightly to report any child who is going home on a score of “2” or less. Teachers should also prioritize calling families of students that are consistently following classroom rules and meeting expectations. *IN 2ND GRADE, STUDENTS RECEIVE TWO (2) BEHAVIOR SCORES PER DAY, ONE FOR EACH BLOCK OF THE DAY. TEACHERS WILL SCORE EACH CHILD BEFORE THEY LEAVE THE CLASSROOM EACH DAY. A child that consistently demonstrates excellence by going above and beyond expectations can earn a positive clip move or paycheck addition. Student clips/paychecks can make positive gains with each teacher/class they attend by: Demonstrating an authentic Love of Learning through exemplary work Demonstrating Empathy for teammates and helping them overcome difficulty Demonstrating Belief in themselves with an exemplary reaction to a conflict or redirection Demonstrating the POWER to Transform by participating perfectly in the classroom or enrichment K-2 teachers also utilize the menu of logical consequences and focus their classroom management on taking advantage of teachable mistakes. This means TEACHING students the meaning of cause & effect by explaining impact of misbehavior and identifying scaffolds that children may need to build their social/emotional skills while holding them accountable for their impact on others. 3RD/4TH GRADE SYSTEM: 3rd and 4th grade students start each week with a total of $50 on their paycheck. Just like in K-2, when expectations are not met, their check is deducted and consequences incurred for more severe behavior. When students demonstrate excellence they can earn dollars for the week. 3rd-4th Grade Consequence Ladder $1 Deductions (non-invasive distractions) Failure to comply after a reminder (baseline habits) Distraction from teammates’ learning (out of seat etc.) Refusal to do work after reminder and/or countdown Wrong place, wrong time Unkind, unsupportive words or actions to teammate(s) Students are made aware of expectations and encouraged to bounce back and meet expectations. For multiple $1 deductions, teacher also assigns a logical consequences when appropriate. $5 Deductions (Community Violations) Disruptive reaction: Disrespectful and public stomping or talking back to adult Disruptive interaction: Public humiliation of classmate; physical confrontation (i.e. mild shoving, grabbing, pushing), dishonesty about actions, or Profanity towards teammate(s) When a student commits a CV, they automatically lose a privilege such as: Lunch detention Recess detention Specials reflection sheet & time out A child who receives TWO CVs in a single day will receive an official notice of CV to be sent home to their family and a phone call from teacher. $10 Deductions (Culture breaches) Threat to classroom safety Threat to teammate safety Initiating physical violence Defacing property Theft Gross and persistent disrespect towards teacher Attempting to leave building A student that threatens the safety of teammates, classroom, or school results in: Parent communication from admin Apology reflection (read to class) Official notice of CV home and filed, Subject to escalated consequence from discipline policy below Menu of Logical Consequences Isolation (classwork, cafeteria, playground etc) Reparation/apology to teammate Cleaning up mess made by self or others Mediation Sitting out of dance/party or celebration Community circle Tape letter to student desk Parent call Written account of their behavior Parent/teacher conference Loss of classroom privilege Our instruction is the key lever for engaging students and managing their actions (choices). A constant flow of learning decreases opportunities for students to disregard expectations. Additionally, our response to breaches typically determine whether or not the child escalates their negative behavior. IF CHILD BECOMES UPSET AFTER A CONSEQUENCE: Private relationship building and “bounce back” statement IF A CHILD BECOMES DISRUPTIVE: Delivery of consequence and documentation Private reminder of the expectation (non-emotional) Clear time period for “recovery” and statement of impending consequence for non-compliance (additional deduction/clip move/logical consequence) Check back in with child after stated time period to engage in restorative conversation Non-emotionally direct student to remove themselves from situation (designated classroom area or partner room) Documentation on the white board, clipboard, or clip chart KCCP DISCIPLINE POLICY: Tier I Mistakes: Tier II Mistakes: As outlined above, our Tier One mistakes are addressed by As outlined above, our Tier Two mistakes are also our management system in the form of clip moves, addressed in the classroom by our management system in deduction, and/or logical consequences. These include: the form of deductions, and/or logical consequences. These include: Unkind words to teammates or teacher Disruptive reaction to teacher or teammate (public Minor classroom distractions (calling out, getting out disrespect through language or actions) of their seat, talking with teammates) Disruptive interaction with teammate (public Failure to fix behavior after a reminder humiliation or physical threat to teammate) Failure to follow directions Profanity directed at teacher or teammate Being in an unsupervised area without permission Community Violations: More than one Tier II mistakes in a day will result in an official notice of “Community Violation”. Student will complete a reflection sheet with a behavior support person or administrator. Notice and reflection is sent home to be signed by a parent, and returned to school the next day. Unsigned CVs will result in immediate parent contact and additional CV. Community Violation escalation: Community Violations have escalation throughout each quarter. Consequences are as follows: o o o o o o o The first CV notice (2 Tier II or 1 Tier III) will be accompanied by a phone call home. The third CV notice will result in immediate parent contact and request for a mandatory parent conference with teachers. The fifth CV notice in a quarter will result in immediate parent contact and request for mandatory parent conference with student, teacher, parent, and administrator. If a student earns a sixth CV notice in a quarter, parent and administrator come together to create a support plan (Tier II) for the child, that could include weekly or daily parent check-in with teacher. If a student earns eight CV notices in a quarter, parent will be required to do a 60-90 minute observation of their child in the classroom. Three CV notices in a week will result in an automatic one day out of school suspension. Any grossly inappropriate choices (Tier III breaches) such as stealing, physical violence, or threat to safety may result in an immediate out of school suspension instead of a community violation. Tier III Mistakes: The following actions are considered “culture breaches” and are unacceptable behaviors that we want to eradicate in our school. Students receive a major deduction ($10) and immediate CV notice. A restorative conversation is required with each student after consequence has been fulfilled. Tier III Culture Breaches: Menu of Consequences (based on severity and frequency) Official notice of CV home and filed (mandatory) Threat to classroom safety Threat to teammate safety Initiating physical violence Parent communication from admin (mandatory) Subject to escalated consequence from discipline policy (includes escalated CV consequences and suspension policy) Defacing property Theft Gross and persistent disrespect towards teacher Restorative practice e.g. public apology, reflection (mandatory) Attempting to leave building Habitual Zero and Low point/paycheck earners: Students who consistently earn deductions (0-2 on the clip system or $10+ deductions) over a specific time period are to be referred to the grade-level RTI chair so that teachers can discuss the root of the problem, design a coordinated response, and begin to track progress . Suspendable Actions (In-school/Out of School) Tier III Mistakes At KCCP we work to maximize instructional time with our students. There are occasionally students that grossly violate our discipline policy. In the cases when a child commits an act that threatens safety of self, others, or community, KCCP may utilize an out-of-school suspension. Administration is called when there is an instance of a child 1) harming themselves or other physically, emotionally, or verbally, 2) a student leaves the room without permission or puts themselves in danger. In all cases, the decision to suspend can only come from a school administrator. The following behaviors are subject to suspension as determined by a school administrator only. Type and duration of suspension will be based on student age, the severity of the offense, and patterns of behavior. Non-Crisis Culture Breaches: The following actions are taken with major culture breaches that are NOT AN IMMEDIATE THREAT TO STUDENT OR TEACHER SAFETY. Student Actions Teacher Actions 1. Complete referral form and deliver it to the Ms. Theft (major and/or repeated occurrences) Poe’s office in the designated area or mailbox in the Pattern of intimidation/Harassment/Bullying (using teachers’ lounge. size, age, or any other circumstance to exert negative 2. Contact the AP (Ms. Poe) via phone or face to face influence/power over another) after school about the referral and the student Repeated incidences gross disrespect to an adult actions that are of concern. (defiance, mimicking) 3. Admin will follow up with an email detailing next Destruction of property steps and logical consequences w/in 24 hours. Crisis oriented student choices: The following actions are taken with any listed action that is an immediate threat to student safety. Student Actions Teacher Actions FIGHT: Physical violence toward a teammate with an intent to cause real harm Repeated, disruptive, violent Inappropriate touching (any intentional touch in a private area) Initiating violence with an adult Activating the fire alarm Possession of lighters, matches, drugs, guns and knives or any other hazardous material/items 1. Contact: a) School administrator b) Behavior Interventionists c) Other administrators/Instructional Coaches d) Case Managers If student is still threatening the safety of others, s/he will be removed. 2. Complete referral form and deliver it to the Dean of Culture’s office in the designated area or in mailbox by the end of their next instructional break. 3. Admin will follow up with an email detailing next steps and consequences immediately In the event that there is a pattern of behaviors that are impeding the development of PERMA at KCCP, the administrative team, culture chairs, and/or grade levels can intervene by: 1. Hosting whole school/grade level culture sessions that address the violation. 2. Providing grade level resets (amended discipline procedures (must be approved by School administrators); recess/Enrichment reflection boot camps) 3. Parent conferences with GL teams, pods with/out Administrators. 4. Restorative Justice procedures* *Restorative Justice at KCCP KCCP partners with the Center for Restorative Approaches in order to foster community building, collective responsibility, and most of all, the owning of student actions. In the restorative approach, we broaden our perspective from only focusing on what offense has been committed to also include how people and relationships have been harmed. All the affected individuals come together, including and most importantly the offender(s). Working with a facilitator, they move through a set of restorative questions designed to help everyone understand each other’s point of view. Then, together the group decides how to resolve and repair the situation. Ms. Poe, Assistant Principal, will decide if Restorative Justice Procedures are needed to restore harmony between the students, families, and teachers involved in the given situation. KIPP Central City Primary’s Bus Safety Policy Student behavior is as important on the bus as it is in the classroom. Students must exhibit “Panther Pride,” and act safely on their busses at all times. Our school buses are a privilege that can be lost. If a student loses the privilege of riding the bus, the school can offer RTA bus tokens for transportation, when it is appropriate. The following expectations will be strictly enforced to ensure bus safety. Our Bus Rules 1. Stay seated. Students are expected to remain in their assigned seats at all times. 2. Maintain quiet voice. Voices should never be above a whisper. 3. Be kind and respectful. Students are to treat each other with kindness and respect at all times, this includes but is not limited to, using appropriate language and keeping hands, feet, and objects to themselves. 4. Eat food at school/home. There is no food or drink allowed on the bus. Bus Consequences 1st written offense: Automatic loss of bus privilege for one day. There is no second chance when it comes to safety on the road. 2nd written offense: Automatic loss of bus privileges for three days. 3rd written offense: Automatic loss of bus privileges for at least five days, and child will not be allowed back on the bus until a parent meets with school admin and bus driver. 4th written offense: Indefinite loss of bus privileges. 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 25 with discipline procedures and/or fair student treatment, the parent may contact the Student Support Office. 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 longterm 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 26 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 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 free appropriate public education (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. 27 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. 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: 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 28 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. 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. 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. 29 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 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. Prohibition Against Bullying KIPP New Orleans Schools believes that all students have a right to a safe and healthy school environment. All schools have an obligation to promote mutual respect, tolerance, and acceptance among students, staff, and volunteers. Behavior that infringes on the safety of any student will not be tolerated. A student shall not bully or intimidate any student through words or actions. Such behavior includes, but is not limited to direct physical contact, verbal assaults, the use of electronic methods, and social isolation and/or manipulation. The school district policy prohibiting bullying is included in the student code of conduct and includes but is not limited to the following: Any student who engages in bullying will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Students are expected to immediately report incidents of bullying to the principal or designee. School staff and/or administrators will promptly investigate each complaint of bullying in a thorough and confidential manner. If the complainant student or parent of the student feels that appropriate resolution of the investigation or complaint has not been reached after consulting the school principal, the student or the parent of the student should contact the local superintendent or his or her designee. The school system prohibits retaliatory behavior against any complainant or any participant in the complaint process. All students and/or staff shall immediately report incidents of bullying, harassment or intimidation to the school principal or designee. School staff members are expected to immediately intervene when they see a bullying incident occur. Each complaint of bullying shall be promptly investigated. This policy applies to students on school grounds, while traveling on a school bus to and from school, or a schoolsponsored activity, and during a school-sponsored activity. Bullying and intimidation will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action will be taken following each confirmed incident of bullying. If necessary, counseling and other interventions should also be provided to address the social-emotional, behavioral, and academic needs of students who are victims of bullying and students who commit an offense of bullying. 30 Students, parents/guardians and other school personnel may report incidents of bullying to an administrator, teacher, counselor or other staff member orally or in writing by using the appropriate form. The procedures for intervening in bullying behavior include but are not limited to the following: All staff, students, and their parents will receive a copy of the policy prohibiting bullying at the beginning of the school year as part of the student code of conduct. The school will keep a report of bullying and the results of an investigation confidential. Staff are expected to immediately intervene when they see a bullying incident occur or upon receipt of any report of bullying. Anyone who witnesses or experience bullying is encouraged to report the incident to a school official. 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 an individual 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 31 Manifest Determination Review meeting to discuss the student’s disability, behavior, implementation of services and determination of placement. For more information regarding the rights of students with disabilities, please visit Louisiana Department of Education website and download the “Louisiana’s Educational Rights of Children with Disabilities” handbook at https://www.louisianabelieves.com/academics/students-with-disabilities. 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. 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. 32 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 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. The school 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 non33 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. 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. Asbestos Management Plan The school Asbestos Management Plan is available for inspection in the school’s front office during regular business hours. Health and Wellness Policy Students, parents, teachers, food service professionals, health professionals, and other interested community members are invited to help develop, implement, monitor, and review district-wide nutrition and physical activity policies. The region’s Health and Wellness Policy can be found at www.kippneworleans.org and those interested in the policy review process should contact James Graham at [email protected]. 34 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 may bring cell phones to school but must keep them turned off and out of sight until the end of the school day. KNOS is not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen cell phones. In order to prevent any thefts on campus an distractions in the learning environment, if a scholar has any electronics outside of his/her bookbag (cell phones, iPods, games, etc…) the device will be taken by that staff member and placed in his/her possession until a parent/guardian physically comes to pick it up. KIPP Central City Primary reserves the right to update the cell phone policy at any time, including enforcing the routine morning collection of cell phones and afternoon return of cell phones to scholars prior to end of day dismissal. Technology and Internet In accordance with La. R.S. 17:239, no student, unless authorized by the school principal or designee shall use or operate any electronic telecommunication device including cell phones in any public elementary or secondary school building or grounds or in any school bus used to transport public school students, except in the case of an emergency (actual or imminent threat to health or safety). Violation of this policy may be grounds for disciplinary action including but not limited to suspension from school. 35 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. In accordance with La. R.S. 17:280, KIPP shall provide age and grade appropriate classroom instruction regarding Internet and cell phone safety. This instruction shall include, but is not to: (1) safe and responsible use of social networking websites, chat rooms, electronic mail, bulletin boards, instant messaging, and other means of electronic communication; (2) risk of transmitting private personal information; (3) recognizing, avoiding, and reporting, solicitations by sexual predators; (4) recognizing and reporting illegal activities and communications; (5) recognizing and reporting harassment and cyberbullying; (6) recognizing and avoiding unsolicited or deceptive communications; and (7) copyright laws on written materials, photographs, music, and video. Electronic Communication KNOS requires that all communications between its employees and students be appropriate and in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws. All electronic or any other communications by employees to students at any time is expected to be professional, acceptable in content to any reasonable person, and limited to information that is school-related or is acceptable to both student and parent. All electronic communication, including electronic mail, by an employee to a student must take place via a means provided by or otherwise approved by KNOS for this purpose. Any electronic communication made by an employee of KNOS to a student or received by an employee of KNOS from a student using a means other than one provided by or approved by KNOS must reported by the employee to his/her school leader. The school leader must maintain a record of any such reported communication for a period of at least one (1) year. KNOS offers each employee access to a KNOS-provided mobile phone and laptop to facilitate electronic communication with students and parents. KNOS also allows employees to use personal mobile phones for electronic communication. Any employee using a personal mobile phone for electronic communication understands that all interactions with students and parents via a personal mobile phone are considered KNOS work product and/or public records. As such, by using a personal mobile phone to 36 conduct electronic communication with students and parents, the employee agrees to provide KNOS access to the personal mobile phone and all electronic communication recorded on the personal mobile phone upon KNOS’s request. KNOS has established the following hours during which electronic communication with students and parents is deemed reasonable: 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Employees should refrain from electronic communication with students during all other hours. KNOS holds no expectation that employees can immediately respond to all electronic communications from students and parents within the hours KNOS has deemed reasonable for such communication. KNOS does expect all employees to respond to electronic communication that necessitates a response within the bounds of reasonable professional courtesies. So that there is no question about what this policy signifies, please note the following definitions: Computers: pertains to any and all computers. Electronic communication: includes any direct communication facilitated by voice or text-based telecommunication devices (or both), computers, and those devices that facilitate indirect communication using an intermediate method, including but not limited to Internet-based social networks. It also includes transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature in whole or in part by wire, radio, electromagnetic, photoelectric, or photo-optical system and pertains to both personal and KNOS-issued devices. Electronic mail: the transmission of text-based information or communication by use of the Internet, computers, a facsimile machine, a pager, a cellular telephone, a video recorder, or any other electronic device or means sent to a person identified by a unique address or telephone number and received by that person. Improper or inappropriate communications: any communication between employee and student, regardless of who initiates the communication, that may be viewed as derogatory, sexual or lewd in content, threatening or harassing, discriminatory, simple fraternization, or suggestive in nature. Social media: locations on the Internet where users may interact with other users (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and other social network sites available on the Internet or on a mobile device). 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. 37 Travel to and From School Arrival and Dismissal Procedure Arrival Procedure Buses will arrive at the school between 7:15 and 7:35. Scholars enter the building, pick up a breakfast in the cafeteria and move quickly to class to begin their morning routine. Car riders and walkers may enter through the Thalia or Erato St. doors and will move through the cafeteria to their classrooms. All students must arrive by 7:40 AM to be marked present for the day. Students may be dropped off as early as 7:15 AM to enter the school through the cafeteria door in the parking lot. Children will not be supervised or allowed into the building before 7:15 AM and KIPP Central City Primary is not responsible for children dropped off before 7:15 AM. Scholars must be dropped off at KIPP Central City Primary no later than 7:40 AM to be marked present/on time. Students entering the building at 7:41 or later will be marked tardy, and must be signed in to the front office by an accompanying adult. Students riding a bus that arrives after 7:40 will not be marked tardy, as families using our bussing option do so in good faith of timeliness. Breakfast is served between 7:15 and 7:45 AM each morning, and scholars arriving tardy after 7:45 AM are not guaranteed breakfast. Dismissal Procedure All scholars will be dismissed beginning at 3:55 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and 1:15 on Wednesday. At 3:55, scholars who are picked up or walking home, will be escorted to the cafeteria or Erato Street exit for pick-up. At 4:00, all bus riders will be escorted by a teacher to the buses where they be checked onto the bus by their driver. Scholars who are picked up by car or by a walking parent/guardian will wait for parents in the cafeteria (inside pick-ups) or the Erato Street doors (outside pick-ups) beginning at 3:55 PM Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and 1:15 PM on Wednesdays. Parents have the option to find their own legal parking spot and walk through the Thalia St. door to pick up their child, or wait to pull up on Erato Street. Students not picked up after school by 4:15 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays (and 1:30 on Wednesdays) will be considered a late pickup, and incident will be documented. Persons approved to pick up a child (parents/guardians/additional adults) must be listed on the approved pick-up list for each child. This list will be created during Orientation, and names can be added by a legal guardian by contacting the front office. 38 We ask parents/guardians to be patient and live the values that we teach our scholars as we work to get students safely home in the very busy vicinity of the school where traffic conditions can often fluctuate. Transportation Plan As BESE authorized Type 5 Charter Schools all schools operated by KIPP New Orleans Schools provide free transportation to and from school to any student living in Orleans Parish more than one mile from their school. 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. Bus Stop Expectations KIPP New Orleans Schools follows the following process when the parent or guardian of a student under the age of 10 or with a relevant transportation accommodation in the student’s IEP is not at the bus stop. A student’s parent, guardian or designee is required to accompany their child at the bus stop during the pick-up and drop-off each day if their child is under 10 years old or has a transportation accommodation in their IEP. Parents/guardians are required to be present at the assigned bus stop 10 minutes before and after the designated pick up or drop off time to account for unexpected traffic conditions. If a parent, guardian or designee fails to meet a student under ten years old or with a transportation accommodation at a bus stop during drop-off, the student will not be allowed to exit the bus and will be transported back to their school or to the transportation company headquarters until a family member is reached. In cases where the school or transportation company is unable to reach any responsible adult listed in the student’s file, they may deliver the student to the care of the New Orleans Police Department after notifying a member of the KIPP New Orleans Regional Operations Team. Repeated incidence of child abandonment at the bus stop will result in the family losing their bus riding privileges for a probationary time. If a child is placed on probationary bus suspension, it is the parent’s or other authorized person’s responsibility to ensure the child has transportation from school at the regular dismissal time. Absences due to lack of transportation will not be excused. If incidence of Bus Abandonment continues, the parent may be referred to an outside social services agency for intervention. 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 Student Bus Behavior Expectations Expectations for student bus behavior are aligned with school class behavior expectations and the BESE Model Master Discipline Plan. 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 39 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 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. Assigning New Bus Stops KIPP New Orleans Schools observes the following procedure for assigning bus stops to new students. If the family of a new student requests transportation when enrolling, their contact information will be provided to the transportation company and a bus stop on an existing route will be assigned. If a current student moves to a new residence, upon verification of their address, the transportation company will assign a stop on an existing route. Communicating About Transportation Issues KIPP New Orleans Schools observes the following procedure regarding communicating about transportation-related issues. All parents are required to keep their most current contact information on file with the school, as well as contact information for at least two emergency contacts. The school will use the contact information on file to communicate with families about transportation issues. As needed, the school may send home written documentation regarding transportation or discipline issues. Parents should contact the school directly with any transportation-related issues. In some cases, the parent may be directed to contact the transportation provider directly. In the event of an emergency situation, the school will attempt to contact all parents, guardians, and emergency contacts listed in the student’s file. In whole-bus emergency situations (such as a severe traffic delay or a bus accident), the school will attempt to contact all parents of children on the affected bus. Bus Driver Expectations KIPP New Orleans Schools holds the highest expectations for all bus drivers. Bus drivers are an extension of the school staff and are expected to provide the highest level of customer service and professionalism to students and their families. Bus drivers are expected to follow all applicable federal, state and local laws and also comply with all policies set forth by their employer. Drivers are expected to report serious disciplinary issues to the school immediately so they may be addressed in a timely fashion. Drivers are to maintain professionalism is all communications with students, families and staff. 40 This Transportation Plan has been developed in compliance with all applicable BESE policies and procedures, and that all transportation employees either contracted with or employed directly by the LEA have received required background checks through the LBCI. All documentation relevant to this Transportation Plan shall be maintained on file by KIPP New Orleans Schools. 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 Food Breakfast and lunch will be provided daily to scholars. If scholars choose to eat breakfast at home, it must be completed at home. They will not be allowed to bring their personal breakfast into the school building, and food is not allowed on the bus. Your child will be given this breakfast or lunch unless s/he brings lunch from home or we receive specific dietary restrictions from a parent or doctor. In addition to breakfast and lunch, scholars will receive an afternoon snack on all full length school days with a 3:40 dismissal. Eating healthy is important to maximizing learning time and maintaining energy throughout the day. Chips/cold drinks/sports drinks/noodles/candy are not permitted on campus. If scholars bring these items on campus, they will be confiscated and not returned. If this affects their meal for breakfast or lunch, scholars will be given a school meal. Unless a note from a doctor indicates specific dietary restrictions, scholars are unable to microwave or heat up food at school. If food that needs to be heated up is brought to school, scholars will be given a school meal. Please inform the school if your child has any food allergies. 41 Birthday Celebrations KIPP Central City Primary recognizes that birthday celebrations are often a valued opportunity for families to be involved at school. Birthday celebrations are allowed at KCCP as long as date/time are approved in advance by teachers. Learning is our first priority, so we ask that families honor approved times for celebrations. A healthy diet is important in children’s development, so we ask families to keep this in mind in choosing any food items. 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. Each parent/guardian will ensure that his/her child is in uniform at all times when they are in the school building. 1. Scholars will wear only khaki 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. 2. Scholars will wear a plain black belt without logo, design, or graphics. The belt should have a simple buckle. 3. Scholars will wear a KIPP Central City Primary polo shirt that is tucked in (waistband should be visible). Undershirts need to be solid white, black or gray. 4. As the weather gets colder, we will sell sweatshirts that scholars will be able to wear as part of the uniform. They can wear big coats to school, but only wear uniform sweatshirts or sweaters inside the school. 5. Earrings must be studs or very short hanging. Scholars may only wear small chain necklaces inside their shirt. 6. Scholars will not wear hats, bandanas, or other head coverings in the school building. 7. Scholars may not wear artificial nails, fake tattoos, or make-up. Parents will be notified of uniform violations if scholars arrive to school without meeting all uniform expectations. If a parent is unable to bring a change of clothing to meet all uniform requirements, a scholar will change into school borrowed articles of clothing, including shoes, as necessary to maintain uniform expectations. KIPP Central City Primary Uniform Prices Navy/Gold school polo: $15 Navy school sweatshirt: $20 Peter Pan Collar Button Up: $16 Classroom Spirit Shirts: $7 42 Parent Teacher Organization KIPP Central City Primary values the partnership between families and school staff, and appreciates the support provided by families for various school events, ceremonies, celebrations, activities, and more. Feedback and involvement from parents and guardians are key to fulfilling our promise to prepare our scholars to go to and through college. More information on specific ways for parents/guardians to get involved and support KIPP Central City Primary will be available prior to the start of the 2016-17 school year. Parent and Student 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. 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. 43 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. For the safety and security of everybody in school, all visitors to KIPP New Orleans Schools must first stop in the office to sign the Visitors’ Book and follow the above procedures. Parents coming should follow these procedures. However, KIPP New Orleans Schools reserve the legal right to limit or prohibit individuals on campus who harass, threaten, harm, or disrupt the safety or peace of the education environment. 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 School Supply Fee In order to save families the time and effort of purchasing schools supplies, KIPP Central City Primary asks families to pay $20 per child for our annual supply fee. This fee covers all the paper, pencils, folders, binders, and in-class materials that your child will need for the school year. All fees are due by September 30th. Payment plans are available by calling the school at 504-373-6290. 44
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