The Academy Charter School Parent Handbook 2015 2016

2015-2016
Learn. Lead. Serve.
Revised 08/2015
Board of Trustees
Barrington Goldson
Robert Stewart
Janet-Ann Sanderson-Brown
Hazelin Williams
Roderick Roberts
Peter Goodman
Shelia Dancy-Wilkins
Dawn West-Bloise
Stephen Rowley
Sandra O'Neil-PTO
2015
School Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Mr. Wayne Haughton
Executive Director
Mr. Clarence Williams, Jr.

Principal
117 North Franklin S ee

Hempstead, New York 11550
Main Number: (516) 408 2200
www.academycharterschool.org
2015-2016
School Organization Chart
Executive Director
Wayne Haughton
Executive Assistant
Felicia Barracks
Principal
Clarence Williams, Jr.
Director of Operations
Donna Douglas
Administrative Assistant
Jenetta Gonzalez
Jacqueline Joseph
Directors
Dermoth Mattison Senior Academic Director
Keiron Phillips Data & Technology Director
Tyra Russell Elementary School Director
Camille Morris Director of Special Education
Dean of Students
Odette Wallace ES
Leroy Ellis MS
Chief Academic Officer

Dr. Nicholas Stapleton
Nathan Gunter
Non-Instructional Staff
Washburn Martin Business Manager
Hope Chin Business Manager
Support Staff
Vishwanath Maraj Student Information Specialist ES
Nesta Dawkins - Student Information Specialist MS
Nikeba Dawkins Research & Development Assistant
Andrea Brown Office Manager
Primrose Williams Office Assistant
Ruth Escobar - Receptionist/Office Assistant
PPS
Shiromaine Khargi - ABS
Michelle Anthony Social Worker
Instructional Coaches
Kerry Jourdain Kindergarten & Grade 1
Brynn DAmico Grades 2 & 3
Oddette Williams-Allen Grades 4 & 5
Nicole Carr MS ELA
Travis Holloway MS Math
Kindergarten Teachers
Diorca Badaraco
Rasheena Thomas
Chameita Avin
Kassandra Lascko
Kindergarten Associate Teachers

Alicia Smith
Aisheia Brooks
Phyllicia Perry
Joy Wilson
1st Grade Teachers

Amy Delzio-Healy
Tyisha Wilson
Suzana Silva
Rebecca Davidson
1st Grade Associate Teachers

Quasae Cole
Erick Rivas
Carolyn DeLaura
Natalie Paul
2nd Grade Teachers

Trisha Allen
Quinton Dupree
Patawe Simms
Lauren Martindale
2nd Grade Associate Teachers

TBA
Faith Wright
Mabel Perlera
Sharon White
Chef
Michael Bauschback
Sous-Chef
Sebastian Sanchez
School Aides
Denise Hickson
Arcelia Lucero
Sarah Jane Staphens
3rd Grade Teachers

Ayana Murray
Patricia Pagano
Deandra White
3rd Grade Associate Teachers

Jaun Malcolm
Allison Trager
Ann Samuel
4th Grade Teachers

Aileen Dominguez-Perez
Meagan Gallagher
Heather Graham
4th Grade Associate Teachers

Stacey Mueller
Debbie George
Bency Pierre
5th Grade Teachers

Kaitlin Goards
Vanessa Dossous
TBA

Zelia Attaway
Beverley Hanson
Wayne Tulloch
6th Grade Teachers

Joyce Dawkins - Math
Jillian Ra - ELA
Caroline Jones TA

Bridgette Vargas - Math
Annie Schroll - ELA
Chris Souffrant TA
8th Grade Teachers

Janine Gooden - ELA
Ahmed Zubair - Math
Social Studies Teachers

Alex Rubel - MS
Security
Basil Simpson
Alexander Mingo
Wayne Tomlinson
Garfield Crumbie
Rashaad Payton
Christopher James
Lloyd Smith
Maurice Julien
Custodians
Englebert James
Claud Williams
Walton K. Bird
Murgena Kisson
Jacqueline Powell
Warren Blake
Elliott Nation
James Dailey
Tivy Nelson
Ramone Carter
Special Education Teachers

Special Education Associate Teacher
Sara Popowitch MS
Elizabeth Casazza MS
Lois Donnelly Resource Room
AIS Mathematics
Carissa Mannix
Tayo Atoki
Reading Title 1 Teachers
Nicole Cianciulli
Susan Esteves
AIS Reading
Jill Spataro
Dezmarie Hines
Science Teachers
Lilicea Henry ES
Melissa Worthy MS
ESL Teachers
Vanessa Kelly ES
Malina Boylan MS
Physical Education Teachers
Tamara Bailey -ES
Thomas Passalaqua - MS
Mia DiFranco - TA
Music Teacher
Arcell Vickers
Music Associate Teacher

Mark Stewart
Art Teachers
Alicia Bones ES
Ismeal Sanchez - MS
Fine Arts Teacher

Desiree Boyd - MS
Librarian/Technology Specialists
Rafika Soaries
Spanish Teachers
Priscilla Mastromihalis - ES
TBA - MS
Librarians/Technology Assistants
Elaine Darrell ES
Dawn Diaz - MS
Greetings from the School Principal
Greetings Academy Family:

Once again we are at the beginning of a new school year. With that in mind, we have new and exciting
challenges ahead of us. As with any new year, we welcome all new students and staff members to
the Academy family.
I would also like to take this opportunity to reinforce the principles and guidelines that make the
Academy a wonderful learning environment. As you look through this handbook, please keep in
mind important dates and schedules that pertain to the calendar year. Also, please pay close attention
to the dismissal and arrival procedures, as it is imperative that these schedules are adhered to.
I encourage all parents to get involved with the Academy this year. A great place to start is with our
PTO and our Parent University. As always, I am available for questions, comments, and concerns
that you may have.
Once again, thank you for choosing the Academy and thank you for your continued partnership as
we continue to grow and move forward from elementary to middle school and beyond.
Educationally yours,
Clarence Williams, Jr.
Principal principal@academycharterschool.org
FOREWORD
As members of the instructional team, our goal is to provide quality
educational programs. Thus, as a team, we have the responsibility for
ensuring the academic success of all of our children.
This handbook is designed to provide information that will aid us in fulfilling

our responsibilities. In order for staff to function as a team, it is necessary for
everyone to become familiar with its contents. Any suggestions for revisions
are welcome.
Mission Statement
The Academy Charter School (The Academy) will offer an exceptional interdisciplinary
curriculum in a technology rich environment that challenges students to explore connection
across subjects and use experiential learning to bridge the gaps between theory and
practice. In addition to core subjects, our students will benefit from high expectations in
health and the arts. Our focus on character development and community service will
cultivate a student body poised to be active, engaged and responsible members of the
community. We will employ a committed staff whose teaching and high academic and
behavioral expectations will promote the excellence we know our communitys children
can achieve.
Our students will graduate from The Academy with the content mastery
and life skills needed to move into the top five percent of their middle and high school
classes. Teachers will be facilitating engaging activities that drive success for students at
every skill level.
curriculum.
Technology and the arts will be tools that are use d across the
Calendars
The Academy Charter School
School Calendar 2015 2016
Note: Our school calendar is aligned with Hempstead School Districts Calendar with respect to school
closings. If Hempstead Union Free District is closed due to inclement weather, we will be closed.
2015 - 2016 School Calendar

Tuesday
September 1
First day of School
Monday
September 7
Labor Day School Closed
Wednesday
September 9
Early Dismissal 2PM
Mon - Tues
September 14 -15
Rosh Hashanah School Closed
Wednesday
September 23
Yom Kippur School Closed
Wednesday
October 7
Early Dismissal 2PM
Monday
October 12
Columbus Day School Closed
Wednesday
October 21
Early Dismissal 2PM
Tuesday
November 3
Election Day
(Students are not in Attendance)
Professional Staff Development Day
Wednesday
November 4
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wednesday
November 11
Veterans Day School Closed
Wednesday
November 18
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wed - Thurs
Nov 18-19
Parent Teacher Conference

Elementary & Middle School
Wednesday
November 25
Half Day (12noon)
Thurs - Fri
Nov 26-27
Thanksgiving Recess
Monday
November 30
School Reopens
Wednesday
December 2
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wednesday
December 16
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wed - Fri
Dec 23-Jan 1
Holiday Recess School Closed
Monday
January 4
School Reopens
Wednesday
January 13
Early Dismissal 2PM
Monday
January 18
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

School Closed
Wednesday
January 27
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wednesday
February 10
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wed - Thurs
Feb 10-11
Parent Teacher Conference Elementary

& Middle School
Mon - Fri
February 15-19
Winter Recess School Closed
Monday
February 22
School Reopens
Wednesday
February 24
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wednesday
March 9
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wednesday
March 23
Early Dismissal 2PM
Thurs - Mon
March 24 - 28
Easter Recess School Closed
Wednesday
April 6
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wednesday
April 20
Early Dismissal 2PM
Mon - Fri
April 25-29
Spring Break School Closed
Wednesday
May 4
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wed - Thurs
May 4 - 5
Parent Teacher Conference Elementary

& Middle School
Wednesday
May 18
Early Dismissal 2PM
Fri - Mon
May 27 -30
Memorial Day School Closed
Wednesday
June 1
Early Dismissal 2PM
Wednesday
June 15
Early Dismissal 2PM
Friday
June 24
Last Day for Students (1/2 Day) 12noon
Friday
June 24
Full Day for Staff
Total school days that students are in session 182 days

Please Note: Any day that the Hempstead School District closes schools, we will be closed.
Snow Days
March 28th - 1st Snow Day (Otherwise Closed)
April 25th - 2nd Snow Day (Otherwise Closed)
May 27th - 3rd Snow Day (Otherwise Closed)
Special School Calendar Dates to Remember

Marking Periods for Grades
First Marking Period: November 10, 2015
Second Marking Period: February 3, 2016
Third Marking Period: April 27, 2016
Final Marking Period: June 17, 2016
Progress Report Distribution Dates

October 23, 2015
December 22, 2015
March 28, 2016
Report Card Distribution Dates

Wed - Thurs Nov 18-19
Wed - Thurs Feb 10-11
Wed - Thurs May 4 - 5
The Academy Charter School Assessment Calendar

2015-2016 Assessment Calendar
Month
September
October
November
December
January
February
March
April
May
June
Assessments
th
th
NYSESTELL- 8 11
I-Ready and ST Math BOY Diagnostic 8th -25th (Math and ELA)
F&P BOY 8th 18th
ELA MOCK 6th - 7th
MATH MOCK 14th 15th
Professional Development: Data Day 21st
Progress Report Distribution Date 23rd
End of Marking Period Nov 10th, Report Cards Deadline Nov. 13th (by close of
business day- 4 p.m.)
I-Ready, ST Math MOY Benchmark Assessment 1st -18th (Math and ELA)
F&P MOY 7th 21th
Progress Report Distribution Date 22nd
ELA MOCK 12th -14th
MATH MOCK 20th 22nd
Professional Development: Data Days 27th
End of Marking Period Feb. 3rd, Report Cards Deadline Feb. 5th (by close of
ELA MOCK 1st -3rd
MATH MOCK 9th 11th
Professional Development: Data Days 23rd
Progress Report Distribution Date 28th
NYS ELA- 5th-7th (Gr. 3-8)
NYS Math- 13th 15th (Gr. 3-8)
NYSESLAT: Speaking (ESL Students) 12th May 13th
End of Marking Period April 27th, Report Cards Deadline April 29th (by close of
NYSESLAT: Reading, Writing and Listening (ESL Students) 2nd-13th
I-Ready, ST Math EOY Benchmark Assessment 9th -31st (Math and ELA)
NYS Science Performance 25th June 3rd (Gr. 4 and 8 Only)
F&P EOY May 23rd June 10th
NYS Science (Written)-6tH (Gr. 4 and 8 Only)
15th Living Environment Regents
16th Algebra I Common Core Regents
Final Marking Period June 17th 2016
NYSESTELL is administered to newly enrolled students who by reason of foreign birth or ancestry speak
a language other than English, and who understand and speak little or no English, to determine whether
they are English language learners. NYSESTELL should be administered to eligible students within two
weeks of their initial enrollment, whether at the beginning of the school year or at any other time.
ST MATH, I-Ready and F&P Progress Monitoring should be conducted as needed but minimally at least
once between each benchmark assessment.
2015- 2016
Board of Trustees Meetings
The Academy Charter Schools Board of Trustees meets on the fourth Thursday of every
month. Whenever the fourth Thursday falls on a holiday, the board will meet on the third
Thursday. In the event that a meeting date is changed, the public will be notified prior to the
meeting. The time and venue will be posted prior to the meeting as well. All stakeholders
(administrators, teachers, non-instructional staff and parents) are encouraged to attend all
meetings. Below are the meeting dates for the 2015-2016 academic year.
September 24, 2015

October 22, 2015
November 19, 2015
December 17, 2015
January 28, 2016
February 25, 2016
March 24, 2016
April 28, 2016
May 26, 2016
June 23, 2016
2015-2016
Parent Teacher Organization Meetings
The Parent Teacher Organization will meet on the second Thursday of every month. In the event
that a meeting date is changed, the public will be notified prior to the meeting. The time and venue
will be posted prior to the meeting as well. All stakeholders (administrators, teachers, noninstructional staff and parents) are encouraged to attend all meetings. Below are the meeting dates
for the 2015-2016 academic year.
September 10, 2015

October 8, 2015
November 12, 2015
December 10, 2015
None in January
February 11, 2016
March 10, 2016
April 14, 2016
May 12, 2016
June 9, 2016
Admission, Re-Enrollment and Transfers

Admission
The Academy Charter School is open to all children, on a space-available basis within each grade.
Preference is given only to siblings of admitted students and residents of Hempstead School District.
The Academy does not discriminate on the basis of sex, sexual preferences, handicaps, race, religion,
national origin, intellectual or athletic ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, proficiency in English,
or any other basis prohibited by law. To apply for kindergarten, a child must meet their local school
districts requirements.
Students are selected by open lottery. There are no admission requirements and no tests are
given to determine whether or not admission is granted. Once all available slots are filled, all
other applications will be placed on a waitlist. Students will be admitted from the waitlist as
places become available on each grade, in the order that the applications were filed.
Re-Enrollment of Currently Enrolled Students
To ensure your childs place at The Academy Charter School for the next school year, you must officially
re-enroll him or her. Re-enrollment forms are available in the main office for parents/guardians to pickup and will also be sent home with students.
Transfers
Whenever possible, parents should provide at least two weeks notice if a student must transfer from the
school for any reason. Such notice will allow the school to process the necessary transfer paperwork,
including the students records.
Instructional Day Arrival & Dismissal

Arrival
The instructional day for students begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m. Students choosing to
participate in the breakfast program should arrive by 7:30 a.m.
Dismissal
Dismissal is at 4:00 p.m. Students will be picked up and dismissed by their teachers in a common area.
Each class will be assigned a designated area.
For the security and safety of our students here at the Academy, we ask that parents, legal guardians,
and adults approved by a parent or legal guardian (Approved Adult) are the only designated individuals
to pick up a student from school. Approved Adults must be 18 years of age. In the event that an
elementary school student has a sibling who attends The Academy Charter Middle School, the
middle school student may pick up his/her younger sibling once written permission has been
submitted to the main office. If there is an emergency that impedes a parent/guardians ability to pick
up their child from school at any time, a signed note from the parent/guardian granting the school
permission to release the child to an Approved Adult must be provided and the parent/guardian must be
reached so that consent by telephone is granted verbally as well.
Any individual picking the child up from school must sign the child out from school and any Approved
Adult must present photo identification. The school will not release any student to any individual
who does not sign the child out from school or is unable to present photo identification or has
not been authorized by a parent or legal guardian.
Student Attendance Policy

Absences
Students can only be successful if they are present and prepared for school everyday. Parents should
call the office of the Guidance Counselor or Deans, if a child will be absent or tardy. The number of
absences to date will be included in each report card.
Excessive Absences
If the student is chronically absent from school, the school is required to investigate. Absences of 3 or
more consecutive days require a doctors note. Please note: If a child is tardy 3 times this will also be
noted as 1 absence. Child Protective Services (CPS) will be notified and will conduct a home meeting. If
there is a pattern of continuous poor attendance, then a scheduled meeting involving the parent, the
principal and other school personnel will take place to develop a plan for improvement. Excessive
absences may require mandated summer school, possible retention and/or further CPS involvement.
If the parent/guardian does not attend the meeting, school personnel will be required to report to the
authorities suspected cases of educational neglect. The student may be expelled.
If a student has an excused absence (i.e., medical) that a parent/guardian is aware of in advance, the
Academy requests that the students classroom teacher is informed. Acceptable documentation includes
a doctors note for medical reasons.
Attendance Incentives
The Academy will provide incentives to encourage perfect attendance and punctuality. Incentives will
include the following: recognition at the Academy monthly assemblies, certificates, and/or invitations to
special events and trips.
Arriving Late
The instructional day begins at 8:00 a.m. and all students are required to arrive by this time. Students
participating in the breakfast program should arrive by 7:30 a.m. Students who arrive after 8:00 a.m. will
be marked late. A parent/guardian must accompany a student to the main office to sign the child in.
Picking up Children Early

In the event that a child must be picked up early, please notify the school in advance via a telephone call
or written notice. Students who are consistently picked up early lose valuable instructional time therefore
we encourage parents to limit this practice.
Picking up Children Late

The school day ends at 4:00 p.m. and children must be picked up promptly by 4:15 p.m. Students
enrolled in the after school program, which ends at 5:15 p.m., must be picked up by 5:30 p.m. Early
Wednesday dismissal ends at 2:00 p.m. Students must be picked up by 2:15 p.m.
If students are picked up late, CPS will be notified for educational neglect.
Special Note
Please note that students who are not picked up 15 minutes after dismissal of school or the after-school
program will be required to meet with the Principal to discuss the reasons for the delinquency. Failure to
attend this meeting can result in the expulsion of your children from the school.
Homework Policy
Students at each grade level will receive homework every night in ELA and Math. Students will have at
least thirty minutes of homework each night. Homework assignments will reflect the content that is
taught in class and will require minimal assistance from parents. If the homework is late, missing,
incomplete, or of poor quality, then the student may face in-school consequences. Assignments should
include opportunities for students to read or be read to each night, which should be in addition to the time
allocated for written assignments in all grades. Additionally, homework will serve as an opportunity for
Academy Scholars to develop self-discipline, study habits, and time management skills.
Homework Grading Scale
Symbol
Percentages
100%
Explanation
Homework is complete and all correct
75%
Homework complete with most answers correct
50%
Homework attempted but incomplete with most

answers incorrect
0%
Homework not attempted or incomplete with no

answers correct or Homework not handed in
Make-up Work
Students will be allowed to make up homework after being absent. If a child does not complete their
homework on a consistent basis, the parent/guardian will be called in for a meeting with the teacher and
the Principal.
Homework will be posted on the Academys website weekly.
Math
The following Topic Distribution Model should be used when assigning homework.
Teachers are expected to assign homework daily. All homework questions must be openended and require students to show work. Multiple choice questions should not be assigned
for homework.
ELA
Each student is required to read and complete a nightly reading log. Length of time will
vary by grade. Please consult your grade level leader. In addition to the reading log,
students are expected to complete ELA homework related to current units.
See below the recommended ELA Homework topics.
Review of Skill Work (This may also include pre-lesson strategies or readings)
Grammar
Vocabulary/Phonics
Writing Activity (This may be assigned daily or weekly)
Spelling
Parent Teacher Conferences

Parents/guardians must meet the with their childs teacher(s) throughout the school year to discuss their
childs progress. These conferences will address the specific strengths and weaknesses of the child.
Any parent of a child in danger of repeating a grade should be involved in a conference prior to
the end of each marking period.
Formal promotion in doubt conferences are held in January and June.
Breakfast and Lunch

The Academy Charter Schools commitment to offering children a superior education extends to the
meals that we provide for students. The School aspires to the highest possible quality in its breakfast
and hot lunch programs and is dedicated to meeting high standards of nutrition, taste, attractiveness, and
accurate delivery.
All students should submit a Meals Application so that the payment status can be established. While
these forms are being processed, all students who desire meals provided through the School will receive
them until September 30th. If your financial status changes in anyway during the school year, please
notify the school to make the necessary adjustments.
Parents/guardians who are required to pay for their childs meals are asked to make payments by cash
or money order, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. A money order should be made payable to The Academy
Charter School and delivered to the Main Office. The Academy does not accept personal checks. We
cannot afford to absorb delinquent checks and no payment for school meals.
When
parents/guardians dont pay for their childs meals, this means that additional money is taken
from accounts earmarked for instructional purposes. We do not have the time or manpower to run
after bad payers. When a student pays in cash, parents are encouraged to seal the money in an
envelope with the students name and room number printed on the front. The envelope should be
delivered to the Office at the beginning of the school day to reduce the risk of loss or theft. Throughout
the school year, The Academy will send each parent/guardian a bill if there is an unpaid balance.
Students are advised to refrain from sharing food with other students to minimize the spread of viruses
and the risk of allergic reactions.
Students will practice etiquette and cleanup skills during meal times.
Transportation
Transportation is provided according to the local school district of your residence. Hempstead Union
Free District does not provide busing within Hempstead. Students attending The Academy from other
towns that provide busing services will receive a schedule that is disseminated to parents at the
beginning of the school year.
Parents/guardians must contact their individual school districts
transportation department for assistance with arrangements immediately upon registering for The
Academy.
Student Records
All student records include educational information that identifies the student either by name or students
ID number. They include personal and educational information such as test scores, attendance and
guidance folders. They do not include notes about students kept by teachers or other school personnel.
Access to Student Records by Parents, Legal Guardians, and Students:
Authorized requests for student records will be honored.
The parent or eligible student is entitled to duplicate these records or computer printouts.
However, original records may not be removed from the school.
Access to the record will be granted as soon as possible. In no case will the waiting period be
more than forty-five days after the parent or eligible students request.
Parents/Guardians or eligible students can make notes regarding the records. The record search
is completed at no cost to the parent/guardian or student, however the duplication fee is at a cost
(not to exceed twenty-five cents per page). If the parent/guardian cannot afford this fee, it will be
waived.
The Principal will arrange for a staff representative to explain and interpret the record data to the
parent upon request.
Parents/Guardians who are disabled or who live outside of the school district are entitled to have
photocopies forwarded to them. The Principal will then arrange for a staff member to interpret the
record data to the parent/guardian by telephone or by mail.
In the case of estranged, divorced, or separated parent or in the case of custody issues, requests
by the custodial parent or legal custodian to examine the childs records will be honored as
outlined above.
In the case of requests by a non-custodial parent to view the childs records, the custodial parent
or legal custodian will be notified of such request, and after forty-five days, if no documents are
found which bar the non-custodial parent from viewing these records, they will then be made
available.
If the education records contain information regarding more than one student, the parent/guardian
or eligible student may inspect and review the information that pertains to only his or her child or
the eligible student.
Emergency Contact Information

Schools occasionally have to contact parents/guardians during the school day when emergencies arise.
We issue an Emergency Contact Form during registration. It is very important that parents/guardians
keep the school apprised of changes as soon as they occur. PLEASE REMEMBER TO UPDATE THE
ACADEMY AS SOON AS TELEPHONE/CELL numbers are changed so that we may have the most
updated information in case of an emergency.
Parent Teacher Organization

The parents/guardians, according to the PTO By-Laws and regulations, create the Parent-Teacher
Organization. The PTO President sits as an active member of the Board of Trustees. The PTO sets its
own meeting schedule, which is distributed at the beginning of the school year. Parents/guardians meet
one night of each month, and staff and administrators are also encouraged to attend these meetings.
There are PTO special events and fundraisers at which all parents/guardians are encouraged to
volunteer, so that special events, cultural artists, and field trips may be purchased for the Academy.
Records of Progress
Assessment Process
Every child is assessed individually to monitor progress toward meeting grade level standards. Teachers
will review available assessments such as student work and performance-based assessments to provide
parent(s)/guardian(s) with detailed information about their childs academic progress. Teachers will
maintain student work in order to document student progress towards meeting New York State Learning
Standards and the Common Core Standards. A variety of samples of the child's work in each subject
will also be included in this folder. Students will receive report cards, which will be issued at the end of
each marking period. Report cards will be distributed directly to parents/guardians during parent-teacher
conferences.
Elementary Promotion and Retention Policy

Promotion
The Academy Charter Schools Board of Trustees expects students to progress through each grade
within one school year. To accomplish this, instruction should accommodate the varying interests, growth
patterns, and capabilities of individual students. Students shall progress through the grade levels by
demonstrating growth in learning and meeting grade-level standards of expected student achievement.
Retention
Identification of students who should be retained and who are at risk of being retained in their current
grade level should be made on the basis of the following:
1. Indicators demonstrating academic achievement and notable progress towards meeting the New
York State Learning Standards for each grade level
2. Student Attendance
When a student is identified as being at risk for retention, the school shall provide opportunities for
remedial instruction to assist the student in overcoming his/her academic deficiencies. Such
opportunities may include, but are not limited to Title I services, Academic Intervention Services (AIS),
after school programs, Saturday school programs, and summer school.
Retention in Kindergarten, First and Second Grade

Although the normal pattern of progress is annual promotion to the next higher grade, retention of students
in kindergarten, first, and second grade may be considered when a student is not progressing at an
expected rate. In all instances, a committee comprising of the childs teacher(s), the Principal, and other
school personnel will make retention decisions. Retention decisions should be made only after a careful
and systematic review of a portfolio of student work including, but not limited to grades, standardized
Reading/English Language Arts and Mathematics assessments and attendance in making the
determination.
Retention in the Third Fifth Grade

Although the normal pattern of progress is annual promotion to the next higher grade, retention of students
in any grade may be considered when a student is not progressing at an expected rate. In all instances, a
committee consisting of the students teacher(s), the principal, and other school personnel officials will
make retention decisions. Retention decisions should be made only after a careful and systematic
review of a portfolio of student work including but not limited to grades, attainment of level 2 or higher on
the New York State Assessments in English Language Arts and Mathematics, and attendance.
Criterion for Promotion:
95% Attendance
Attaining Reading Proficiency on Grade Level
A displayed mastery of the Common Core Standards on grade level
Level 2 or greater on State Assessments (Students who attain a level 2 but have not
successfully completed the other requirements of the promotional criteria may be retained at
the discretion of
the
Principal).
Elementary School Grading Scale

The purpose of our grading system is to appropriately and consistently measure and communicate an
individual students level of mastery of defined learning objectives. Students are expected to complete and
submit work on time. Parents are expected to actively monitor student performance by reviewing report
cards, progress reports and student work sent home. This policy provides students the opportunity to
receive some credit for late work completed correctly; however, students will earn a zero when they do not
submit an assignment. Student grades will not be negatively impacted by non-academic or non-curricular
variables (wrong size paper, parent signature, etc.), except when items are specifically addressed in a
rubric for a formal paper or project. All late work must be submitted at most five days after the initial due
date. Teachers ware expected to update grades in the PowerSchool System every 2 weeks. Teachers will
use the following distribution to calculate grades:
Categories
Percentage Academic
Assessment
Components
Proficiency in
Content
15%
Quizzes
At least 5-8 quizzes within a marking

period
15%
Projects/Presentation At least one project within a marking

period. Should demonstrate authentic
experiences. Each project must be
graded using a rubric. A tracking
tool/rubric should be established.
40%
Test-All exams
must include
written Tasks
70%
At least 3-4 tests inclusive of writing

tasks within each marking period.
Pre-Tests for a unit are not to be
factored into a Scholars grade.
Work Ethic
30%
Homework
Classwork and
Participation
Effort and Work
Quality
30%
Homework is non-negotiable at the

Academy. At least two pieces of
homework assignments must be given
each day in class; one can be a reading
assignment.
Classwork: Do Nows, Exit Tickets,
notebook checks, independent/group
tasks, class readiness and participation.
Grading Scale
Number
Grade
4
Raw Percentage
90-100
75-89
60-74
0-59
Explanation
Exceed Level of Performance
Indicates that the scholar has done excellent
work and has mastered the course objectives,
consistently does excellent work with skill and
thoroughness; and has consistently applied
knowledge acquired to new situations
Satisfactory Level of Performance
Indicates that the scholar has done above average
work, mastered almost all of the course objectives;
and can apply some of the knowledge acquired to
new situations.
Approaching Level of Performance
Indicates that the scholar has done average work
and has mastered some of the objectives of the
course. The scholar has gained some procedural
knowledge but displays some difficulty applying it
to new situations
Below Level of Performance
Indicates that the scholar has done work that is
unsatisfactory and has displayed very little mastery
of the objectives on the grade. The scholar has
gained very little knowledge and cannot display that
knowledge in new situations.
CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING PROMOTION AND RETENTION:
General
If a student has been retained, it is expected that the school will develop an individual learning
plan for the following year and will monitor the students progress.
English Language Learners
English Language Learners (ELL) as designated by the New York State Identification Test
for English Language Learners (NYSITELL) results will not be retained solely due to their ELL
status. ELLs will be evaluated based on a comprehensive review of a portfolio comprising
of student work, grades and standardized test results including the New York State
Assessments in English Language Arts or the NYSESLAT, Mathematics, and attendance.
It is reasonable to consider English Language Learners to be at risk of retention and eligible
for supplemental instruction based on the challenges they face in acquiring English
language
proficiency.
Special Education
It is possible that Special Education students may be retained, but Special Education students
will not be retained solely because of the their identified disability.
Students in all grades will be promoted based on the promotional criteria listed on their
Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
NOTIFICATION:
First notification to parents/guardians of students at risk of retention can occur as early as January 31 st.
Final notification of retention for grades K-8 students shall occur no later than the end of the second
quarter.Parents/guardians of all students must be provided the opportunity to meet with the principal
and the teacher to discuss the decision.
PROMOTION/RETENTION APPEAL PROCESS
The decision to retain a student may be appealed if consistent with the procedures set forth below. The
burden shall be on the appealing party to show why the decision should be overruled.
To appeal the decision, the appealing parents/guardians shall submit a written request to the Board of
Trustees specifying the reasons why the decision should be overruled. The appeal must be initiated by
the appealing party and received by the principal within five (5) working days of the notification of the
decision to retain the student. The principal and teacher(s) shall be provided an opportunity to state orally
and/or in writing the reasons for the decision and provide supporting documentation related to the criteria
on which the decision was based.
Within five (5) working days of receiving the written request for appeal, the Board of Trustees shall
determine whether or not to overrule the school committees decision. The decision of the Board shall be
final.
Middle School Promotion and Retention Policy

Grade 6: To be promoted to grade 7, students must meet all of the following requirements.
Receive a final passing grade in English Language Arts.
Receive a final passing grade in Mathematics.
Receive a final passing grade in Science.
Receive a final passing grade in Social Studies.
Receive a final passing grade in at least two (2) specials.
95% Attendance
Grade 7: To be promoted to grade 8, students must meet all of the following requirements.
Receive a final passing grade in English Language Arts.
Receive a final passing grade in Mathematics.
Receive a final passing grade in Science.
Receive a final passing grade in Social Studies.
Receive a final passing grade in at least two (2) specials.
95% Attendance
Passing Grade: D
Retention in 6th - 8th grade:
Within the first 4 weeks of school or at the first sign a student is experiencing difficulties/failing a
student will be identified by teachers and the situation will be discussed with the principal. When a
student is identified as being at risk of retention, parents will be notified and the student will be provided
with additional opportunities in core academic areas. These opportunities may consist of Academic
Support, Academic Intervention Services, Title I support, Tutoring, After-School, Saturday School and/or
summer school. Ongoing assessment of student progress will be part of their 2014-2015-intervention
plan.
If a student fails to pass Core Classes (English Language Arts, Social Studies, Math or Science) with D
or higher, that student is required to attend summer school. If the student does not pass summer school,
then the student will be retained.
Middle School Grading Policy

Grades 5-8
Letter Grade
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
F
Numeric Grade
97-100
93-96
89-92
85-88
81-84
77-80
73-76
69-72
65-68
60-64
0-59
Points
4.0
3.7
3.3
3.0
2.7
2.3
2.0
1.7
1.3
1.0
0.0
The evaluation codes used for academic subjects in the middle school are:
Grades
A
B
C
Explanations
Outstanding level of performance
Indicates that the pupil has done excellent work and has mastered the course objectives,
consistently does excellent work with skill and thoroughness; and consistently has applied
knowledge gained to new situations
High level of performance
Indicates that the pupil has done above average work, mastered almost all of the course
objectives; and has applied knowledge gained to new situations.
Satisfactory level of performance
Indicates that the pupil has done average work and has mastered many of the objectives of
the course.
Needs improvement in performance

Indicates that the pupil has done below average work and has mastered few of the objectives
of the course.
Unsatisfactory level of performance

Indicates that the pupil's work fell below a level of acceptance for the course and was
unsatisfactory.
Incomplete
Indicates incomplete work that will need to be made up prior to a grade being assigned.
*Only letter grades will appear on report cards and transcripts.
Character Development
All students are required to demonstrate appropriate behaviors and knowledge of core virtues. The
School-Wide Behavior Management System is designed to reinforce and celebrate character
development.
School-Wide Behavior Management System

At the Academy Charter School we believe in mutual respect, compassion for others and self-discipline.
The following universal rules have been adopted to maintain an environment where scholars can develop
academically and socially.
The Five Bs
1. Be Here
In order for scholars to progress academically, they need to come to school every day on
time. In addition, scholars must be in class in order to learn.
2. Be Safe
A safe and orderly environment is necessary for scholars to flourish academically and
socially. Scholars and teachers must adhere to the behavioral expectations of the
Academy.
3. Be Ready
To get most out of ones education, one must have all of the materials needed to succeed
and be willing to listen and participate in daily activities and complete assigned homework.
4. Be Respectful
A culture of mutual respect between scholars and the Academy Staff is paramount for the
success of the school. Scholars must learn to respect themselves and others.
5. Be Responsible
There are many ways for scholars to demonstrate responsibility. Scholars are responsible
for coming to school each day, completing daily and nightly assignments, and adhering to
school-wide behavioral expectations.
School-Wide Behavioral Expectations

Respect yourself and others by:
Asking permission before you touch others and their belongings
Asking permission before you leave your designated area (i.e. classroom, special class, cafeteria)
Using please, thank you and other kind words
Listening to others with your eyes and ears
Following directions of Academy Staff members the first time they are given
Sharing community property
At the Academy, we realize that different locations call for a different set of behavioral expectations.
During the first two weeks of school, teachers will teach and model the behavioral expectations for the
following locations:
Hallways
Keep yourself and others safe by walking.
Respect the learning environment of others by using a quiet mouth, hands and feet.
Go straight to your destination- no loitering.
Travel with a pass to indicate where you are going; do not travel in the hallway without
permission.
Keep all body parts off of the walls and bulletin boards.
Cafeteria
Clean up after yourself.
Walk in the cafeteria;
Keep your hands, feet and other personal objects to yourself.
Whisper-talk at your lunch table.
Eat properly and use good manners.
Do not share food with others.
Stay seated while you are eating.
Wait quietly on the lunch line.
Bathrooms
Respect yourself and others by not looking under bathroom stalls.
Wait outside quietly if there are more than three people in the bathroom.
Use the bathroom quickly and quietly; flush the toilet when you are done.
Wash your hands before you leave the bathroom.
Keep the bathroom clean by throwing away towels, turning off the faucet and not spraying water
when you are washing your hands.
Tell a custodian when there is a mess or if equipment is broken.
During academic times, travel to the bathroom with a pass.
Outside
Do not leave the parking lot without permission (arrival, recess or dismissal times).
Remain within your assigned area.
Line up quickly and quietly.
The Academy is committed to recognizing and rewarding scholars that demonstrate good citizenship.
Scholars will receive individual and group rewards for exhibiting good character. The Academy will use a
color system and monetary system to monitor behavior. We would like all of our students to be an
Academy S.T.A.R. (Scholars That Are Responsible).
Individual Rewards
The Academy will use the following hierarchy of rewards to recognize an Academy S.T.A.R.
Verbal praise that is tied to a specific behavior.
Scholars that remain on Green will receive an Academy Buck at the end of the day.
Scholars can use bucks to buy items once a week at the Academy Store. Other ways to earn
bucks include, but are not limited to class participation, exhibiting the character trait of the month,
great class work and completing nightly homework.
Scholars that remain on Green all week will be eligible for a Citizen of the Week award and 5
Academy Bucks; daily attendance, class participation and the completion of daily class work and
homework assignments will be factored in as well. Citizens of the Week will be recognized at our
weekly Town Meeting.
Scholars that receive three Citizens of the Week awards will be eligible for a Citizen of the
Month certificate. Citizens of the Month will be invited to a monthly celebration.
Scholars will also earn 5 bucks when they receive awards at The Academys monthly assemblies
(scholars that are Student of the Month will receive 10 Bucks).
Group Rewards
The ability to collaborate with colleagues will be one of the key ingredients to success in the 21 st century
workforce. Consequently, The Academy believes that instilling this quality in scholars early will help them
succeed in the future. The following is a list of rewards scholars will receive for exhibiting teamwork:
If the entire class remains on Green or receives a compliment from any Academy staff member,
the class will receive a star.
15 Stars earns the class an extra recess period.
30 Stars earns the class a movie with popcorn.
50 Stars earns the class a party and a certificate of achievement.
Consequences
The Academy believes in a balance between consequences and rewards. The Academy will use a color
system to monitor behavior; this color system will help scholars regulate their own behavior as well.
Scholars that do not adhere to the schools behavioral expectations will progress through the hierarchy of
consequences listed below. Scholars will receive up to three verbal warnings tied to specific behaviors
before they receive a color change.
Color
Blue
Yellow
Orange
Red
Consequence
Effective after three (3) Needs Work point deductions on Class
Dojo; 5 minute in class time out
5-minute time-out in class
Effective after three (3) additional Needs Work point deductions
on Class Dojo; 10-minute out of class time-out
on Class Dojo; Detention or No Recess
on Class Dojo; Principal Conference and Red Letter
Detention
Scholars that move to Orange before recess will receive detention. He/she will spend time in the Deans
Office. The Dean will monitor students during detention. The Dean will call the parent/guardian and
inform them of the reason(s) for detention. Each scholar will have to explain his/her action in writing or
by drawing as well as describe what he/she will do differently in the future. The detention form will be
sent home for parents to sign; the form must be returned to school the following day. A mandatory
parent meeting will be held after a scholar receives detention six times. Detentions will be factored into
progress report and report card grades.
Severity Clause
Based on the severity of an infraction, the Academy reserves the right to bypass the color system.
Scholars can receive one of the following consequences listed below for excessive Red Letters,
detentions and other infractions (please refer to the Code of Conduct included in the Parent/Student
Handbook for a detailed description of infractions and consequences).
Loss of Privileges (i.e. field trips, special events and class celebrations)
In-School Suspension
Out-of-School Suspension
In addition, if a scholars behavior is severely disrupting the learning environment the Crisis Team will be
dispatched to his/her classroom to remove him/her immediately and the parent/guardian of the scholar
will be notified.
The Crisis Team will consist of the following individuals: the Dean and the Principal. In the event that you
need a student removed from your class, we will adhere to the following protocol:
The Teacher or Associate Teacher will call the main office and state the room number and a
code.
Someone from the main office with call out your room number and the code number on a walkietalkie.
The Individual (s) associated with the code will report to the designated classroom to remove the
student out of your classroom.
Code One - Dean

Code Two - Dean and Principal
S.T.A.R. Pledge
To reinforce good character and behavior, Academy Scholars will begin each day by reciting the
S.T.A.R. Pledge.
As an Academy S.T.A.R., I pledge to be here every day on time.
I will keep myself and others safe.
I will strive to have a positive attitude.
I will always try to do and be my best.
I will respect myself and others.
I will accept responsibility for my actions.
Today, I will learn.
Tomorrow, I will lead and serve.
Academic Intervention Services

At risk students will be provided with academic intervention services (AIS) in reading and
mathematics. Services will be conducted during the school day by the Title I and academic
intervention teachers. Students will also receive additional instruction in an afterschool
program. Parents will be informed in writing if their children are mandated to receive these
services.
Educational Trips
Careful cooperative planning before each trip is essential. Students will be chaperoned at a ratio of
10 students to every adult unless otherwise indicated by the institution that is being visited. All the
students must understand the purpose and relevance of the activity to the curriculum. When
students return from a field trip, opportunity should be provided for them to write about the
experience and what they learned.
All trips, i.e., destination, date, etc., must be approved by the Principal prior to the staff
member making any final arrangements.
The parent permission letter must include
destination, date, time of departure and arrival back to school, as well as any other pertinent
information. Every child must have a signed permission slip in order to go on the trip. Permission
by telephone is not acceptable.
SCHOOL UNIFORMS
UNIFORM DRESS CODE
Student Dress Code
The Academy Charter School (TACS) has a strict uniform dress code for its students. Each
student must wear the school uniform throughout the entire school day unless otherwise instructed
by an administrator. Parents/guardians have the primary responsibility for ensuring that students
are dressed in the school uniform every day. Parents/guardians are expected to give proper
attention to personal and uniform cleanliness. When children grow out of uniforms, the uniforms
should be updated to fit the childs appropriate size and original color. Teachers and all other
TACS personnel will exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop
an understanding of appropriate appearance in a school setting.
School Uniform Violation Policy
Students are expected to attend school in full uniform as indicated in the uniform policy in the
following section. Failure to comply with the schools uniform policy will result in the following:
The first time a student is out of full uniform, they will be sent to the Deans office. The
parent/guardian will be contacted by phone and the student will be sent home with a pre-suspension
letter. This letter will require the parent/guardian to accompany the child to school the following day,
for a pre-suspension meeting.
The second time a student is out of full uniform, the parent/guardian will be mandated to meet
with the principal for a meeting to determine the consequences and to ultimately conclude if the
Academy is the appropriate setting for the student.
* During times of inclement weather boots may be worn to school and children can change into
their appropriate footwear before the start of the school day.
The uniform must be worn every day, regardless of weather, unless parents and
students have been advised otherwise in writing. The Principal or his/her designee
shall be responsible for informing all students and their parents of the student
dress code during registration and at the beginning of the school year and any
revisions to the dress code made during the school year. Failure to wear the
uniform will be considered a violation of our schools discipline policy. The
Academy has the right to dis-enroll students due to non-compliance with this
program.
ACADEMY UNIFORMS
The uniform must be worn every day, regardless of weather, unless parents and students
have been advised otherwise in writing. Failure to wear the uniform will be considered a
violation of our schools discipline policy.
The following are not in accordance with the school uniform policy and are subject to the violation
policy above:
Jewelry in any form (does not include medical alert jewelry)

Any accessories or accentuated items that could be viewed as a safety hazard and are not in
line with the uniform policy below (ex: long or acrylic nails, open toed shoes, sharp items)
If you have any questions about what is permissible, please contact the school.
Girls K 5th Grade:

Girls must be neatly styled
Academy yellow blouse with round collar; Long or short sleeves. NO polo shirts acceptable.
Academy purple plaid jumper; Jumpers should not be shorter than the top of the kneecap.
Academy purple plaid headbands may be worn.
Academy black long sleeves sweater with logo.
All girls must wear black socks or tights.
Completely ALL black shoes.
Boys K 5th Grade:

Boys must be neatly styled
Academy yellow shirt; long or short sleeve; tucked in at all times; (Polo shirts are not
acceptable.)
Academy black pants.
Academy plaid tie.
Academy black vest with logo.
Black belt.
Black socks.
ALL black shoes ONLY. No athletic socks below ankle shall be worn.
Girls 6th 8th Grade:

Girls must be neatly styled
Academy white blouse with round collar; Long or short sleeves. NO polo shirts acceptable.
Academy purple plaid skirt; Skirts should not be shorter than the top of the kneecap.
Academy purple plaid headbands may be worn.
Academy black long sleeves sweater.
All girls must wear black socks or tights.
Completely ALL black shoes.
Boys 6th 8th Grade:

Boys must be neatly styled
Academy white shirt; long or short sleeve; tucked in at all times; (Polo shirts are not
acceptable.)
Academy black pants.
Academy plaid tie.
Academy black vest with logo.
Academy black blazer with logo.
Black belt.
Black socks.
ALL black shoes ONLY. No athletic socks below ankle shall be worn.
The Academy gym day uniform is:

Boys and Girls K 8th Grade
Academy purple logo sweatshirt.

Grey sweatpants with Academy logo.
Grey shorts with Academy logo.
All black socks; Athletic socks above the ankle ONLY.
ALL black sneakers ONLY (Including laces); No logos or different color soles.
Health and Safety

Students health and safety is the schools foremost responsibility. The following information describes
the precautions taken to protect the well being of all students. If your child has any specific health,
safety, or security needs please inform the school so that the appropriate accommodations can be made.
Allergies
Due to student allergies, The Academy is a peanut-free school. Please check all food items that you
send in with your child to ensure that they are peanut-free. Students will not be permitted to open and
consume any items that include peanut ingredients.
Nurse
The Academy Charter School has the services of an on-site nurse to assist students who are ill or
injured. Parents or students may also wish to consult with the nurse on matters related to medical
conditions. Parents will be notified whenever a student has been referred to the school nurse. If the
nurse request that your child be sent home, the child must be picked up immediately. Failure to
do so is a violation of health and hygiene codes and is reportable to CPS and the authorities.
Your child can return to school after you have gotten a note from your doctor giving your
child medical clearance.
Medication
The school nurse and the students teacher must be informed of any prescription medication that a
student is required to take at school. To dispense prescription medication to students, the nurse must
receive a written order from the students doctor and a permission slip from the students parent or legal
guardian. All medication should be brought to the school nurse in its original prescription container,
labeled with the students name, the name of the medication, the date of expiration, and the proper
dosage. Students are not permitted to bring non-prescription medication to school.
If, during the course of the school day, it is necessary for a student to receive common, non-prescription
medication (e.g. Tylenol) the school nurse will dispense it with proper authorization. Parents/guardians
must inform the school of any allergies or restrictions on non-prescription medication that their children
might have. Also, please notify the school in writing if your child has a chronic illness that may affect his
or her performance at school.
Accidents
The school nurse will administer initial treatments for minor injuries. The students parents or emergency
contact will be notified immediately by phone whenever medical treatment is administered to a student.
Incidents will be kept in the students permanent file. In such cases, it is especially crucial that the school
has working phone numbers for students parents and for alternate contacts in the event that a parent is
unavailable. Please be vigilant in keeping the schools records for your child up to date.
Lockers
The school issues each 2nd through 8th grade student a locker with a lock. To maintain a discipline and
safe school environment, outside locks are not permitted.
Fire Drills/Emergency Procedures

The school will have fire drills during the school hours. Specific signals and procedures have
been established for all types of disaster drills, and safety areas have been designated. Teachers
are equipped with instructions, and all drills will be practiced with students on a regular basis.
Visitor Identification
To help ensure a safe and secure learning environment for your children, all visitors to The Academy
Charter School are required to show ID, sign in at the Security station and wear a visitors pass. Faculty
and staff have been instructed to escort anyone not having a pass immediately to the office for
identification.
Birthday Parties
With notice, students will be permitted to have a birthday party at the end of the school day. Teachers
must be given at least 1 week notice to plan for the party. Unplanned parties will not be allowed. Food
items must be store bought and peanut free.
Student Code of Conduct

I. Introduction
The Board of Trustees (the Board) of The Academy Charter School is committed to providing a
safe and orderly school environment where students may receive and The Academy Charter
School personnel may deliver quality educational services without disruption or interference.
Responsible behavior by students, teachers, other personnel, parents and other visitors is essential
to achieving this goal.
The Academy Charter School has high expectations for conduct on school property and at school
functions. These expectations are based on the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship,
character, tolerance, honesty and integrity. The board recognizes the need to clearly define these
expectations for acceptable conduct on school property, to identify the possible consequences of
unacceptable conduct, and to ensure that discipline when necessary is administered promptly and
fairly. To this end, the board adopts this code of conduct (code).
Unless otherwise indicated, this code applies to all students, school personnel, parents and other
visitors when on school property or attending a school function.
II. Definitions
For purposes of this code, the following definitions apply.
Disruptive student means a student who is substantially disruptive of the educational process or
substantially interferes with the teachers authority over the classroom.
Parent means a parent, guardian or person in parental relation to a student.
School property means in or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground,
parking lot or land contained within the real property boundary line of a school, or in or on a
school bus.
School function means any school-sponsored extra-curricular event or activity.
Violent student means a student who:
Commits an act of violence upon a school employee, or attempts to do so.
Commits, while on school property or at a school function, an act of violence upon another
student or any other person lawfully on school property or at the school function, or attempts to
do so.
Possesses, while on school property or at a school function, a weapon.
Displays, while on school property or at a school function, what appears to be a weapon.
Threatens, while on school property or at a school function, to use a weapon.
Knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys the personal property of any school
employee or any person lawfully on school property or at a school function.
Knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys school property.

Weapon means a firearm as defined in 18 USC 921 for purposes of the Gun-Free Schools Act.
It also means any other gun, BB gun, pistol, revolver, shotgun, rifle, machine gun, disguised gun,
dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto, switchblade knife, gravity knife, brass knuckles, sling shot, metal
knuckle knife, box cutter, cane sword, electronic dart gun, Kung Fu star, electronic stun gun,
pepper spray or other noxious spray, explosive or incendiary bomb, or other device, instrument,
material or substance that can cause physical injury or death when used to cause physical injury
or death.
III. Student Rights and Responsibilities
A. Student Rights
The Academy Charter School is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students
under applicable state and federal law. In addition, to promote a safe, healthy, orderly and
civil school environment, all students have the right to:
Take part in all activities on an equal basis regardless of race, color, creed, national origin,
religion, gender or sexual orientation or disability.
Present their version of the relevant events to school personnel authorized to impose a
disciplinary penalty in connection with the imposition of the penalty.
Access school rules and, when necessary, receive an explanation of those rules from school
personnel.
IV. Code of Conduct
B. Student Responsibilities
All The Academy Charter School students have the responsibility to:
Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to
learning and to show respect to other persons and to property.
Be familiar with and abide by all The Academy Charter School policies, rules and
regulations dealing with student conduct.
Attend school every day unless they are legally excused and be in class, on time, and
prepared to learn.
Work to the best of their ability in all academic and extracurricular pursuits and strive
toward their highest level of achievement possible.
React to direction given by teachers, administrators and other school personnel in a
respectful, positive manner.
Work to develop mechanisms to control their anger.
Ask questions when they do not understand.
Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline.
Dress appropriately for school and school functions.
Accept responsibility for their actions.
Conduct themselves as representatives of The Academy Charter School when participating
in or attending school-sponsored extracurricular events and to hold themselves to the highest
standards of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship.
V. Essential Partners of the Academy Charter School

A. Parents
All parents are expected to:
1. Recognize that the education of their child is a joint responsibility of the parent and the
school community.
2. Send their children to school ready to participate and learn.
3. Ensure their children attend school regularly and on time.
4. Ensure absences are excused.
5. Insist their children be dressed and groomed in a manner consistent with the student dress
code.
6. Help their children understand that in a democratic society appropriate rules are required to
maintain a safe, orderly environment.
7. Know school rules and help their children understand them.
8. Convey to their children a supportive attitude toward education and The Academy Charter
School.
9. Build good relationships with teachers, other parents and their childrens friends.
10. Help their children deal effectively with peer pressure.
11. Inform school officials of changes in the home situation that may affect student conduct or
performance.
12. Provide a place for study and ensure homework assignments are completed.
B. Teachers
All The Academy Charter School teachers are expected to:
Maintain a climate of mutual respect and dignity, which will strengthen students selfconcept and promote confidence to learn.
Be prepared to teach.
Demonstrate interest in teaching and concern for student achievement.
Know school policies and rules, and enforce them in a fair and consistent manner.
Communicate to students and parents:
a. Course objectives and requirements
b. Marking/grading procedures
c. Assignment deadlines
d. Expectations for students
e. Classroom discipline plan.
Communicate regularly with students, parents and other teachers concerning growth and
achievement.
C. Principal
Promote a safe, orderly and stimulating school environment, supporting active teaching
and learning.
Ensure that students and staff have the opportunity to communicate regularly with the
principal and approach the principal for redress of grievances.
Evaluate on a regular basis all instructional programs.
Support the development of and student participation in appropriate extracurricular
activities.
Be responsible for enforcing the code of conduct and ensuring that all cases are resolved
promptly and fairly.
D. The Academy Charter Schools Management Partner
1. Promote a safe, orderly and stimulating school environment, supporting active teaching
and learning.
2. Review with The Academy Charter School administrators the policies of the Board and
state and federal laws relating to school operations and management.
3. Inform the board about educational trends relating to student discipline.
4. Work to create instructional programs that minimize problems of misconduct and are
sensitive to student and teacher needs.
5. Work with The Academy Charter School administrators in enforcing the code of conduct
and ensuring that all cases are resolved promptly and fairly.
E. Board of Trustees
Collaborate with student, teacher, administrator, and parent organizations; school safety
personnel; The Academy Charter Schools management partner; and other school personnel to
develop a code of conduct that clearly defines expectations for the conduct of students, personnel
and visitors on school property and at school functions.
1. Adopt and review at least annually The Academy Charter Schools code of conduct to
evaluate the codes effectiveness and the fairness and consistency of its implementation.
2. Lead by example by conducting board meetings in a professional, respectful, courteous
manner.
VI. Student Dress Code
All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress
appropriately for school and school functions. The Academy Charter School has adopted a
school uniform dress code for its students. Each student must wear the school uniform
throughout the entire school day unless otherwise instructed by a staff member. Students
and their parents have the primary responsibility for ensuring that the student is dressed in the
school uniform every school.
The principal or his designee shall be responsible for informing all students and their parents of
the student dress code at the beginning of the school year and any revisions to the dress code
made during the school year.
Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to change their appearance by
covering or removing the offending item and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an
acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline.
VII. Prohibited Student Conduct
The Board expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner, with
proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students, personnel and other members of the
school community, and for the care of school facilities and equipment.
The best discipline is self-imposed, and students must learn to assume and accept responsibility
for their own behavior, as well as the consequences of their misbehavior.
The Academy Charter School personnel who interact with students are expected to use
disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the students ability to grow in
self-discipline.
The board recognizes the need to make its expectations for student conduct while on school
property or engaged in a school function specific and clear. The rules of conduct listed below are
intended to do that and focus on safety and respect for the rights and property of others. Students
who will not accept responsibility for their own behavior and who violate these school rules will
be required to accept the penalties for their conduct.
The School administrators shall administer comparable disciplinary procedures for Code of
Conduct violations that take place at school functions (i.e., school-sponsored or school authorized
extracurricular event or activity) or on school property (i.e., school bus).
Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from school, when
they:
A. Engage in conduct that is disorderly. Examples of disorderly conduct include:
1. Running in hallways.
2. Making unreasonable noise.
3. Using language or gestures that are profane, lewd, vulgar or abusive.
4. Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
5. Engaging in any willful act which disrupts the normal operation of the school community.
6. Trespassing. Students are not permitted in any school building, other than the one they
regularly attend, without permission from the administrator in charge of the building.
7. Computer/electronic communications misuse, including any unauthorized use of
computers, software, or internet/intranet account; accessing inappropriate websites; or any
other violation of The Academy Charter Schools acceptable use policy.
B. Engage in conduct that is insubordinate. Examples of insubordinate conduct include:
1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school administrators or other
school employees in charge of students or otherwise demonstrating disrespect.
2. Lateness for, missing or leaving school without permission.
3. Skipping detention.
C. Engage in conduct that is disruptive. Examples of disruptive conduct include:
1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school administrators or other
school personnel in charge of students.
D. Engage in conduct that is violent. Examples of violent conduct include:
1. Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon a
teacher, administrator or other school employee or attempting to do so.
2. Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon a
student or any other person lawfully on school property or attempting to do so.
3. Possessing a weapon. Authorized law enforcement officials are the only persons permitted
to have a weapon in their possession while on school property or at a school function.
4. Displaying what appears to be a weapon.
5. Threatening to use any weapon.
6. Intentionally damaging or destroying the personal property of a student, teacher,
administrator, other employee or any person lawfully on school property, including graffiti
or arson.
7. Intentionally damaging or destroying The Academy Charter School property.
E. Engage in any conduct that endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others.
Examples of such conduct include:
1. Lying to school personnel.
2. Stealing the property of other students, school personnel or any other person lawfully on
school property or attending a school function.
3. Defamation, which includes making false or unprivileged statements or representations
about an individual or identifiable group of individuals that harm the reputation of the
person or the identifiable group by demeaning them.
4. Discrimination, which includes the use of race, color, creed, national origin, religion,
gender, sexual orientation or disability as a basis for treating another in a negative manner.
5. Harassment, which includes a sufficiently severe action or a persistent, pervasive pattern of
actions or statements directed at an identifiable individual or group which are intended to
be or which a reasonable person would perceive as ridiculing or demeaning.
6. Intimidation, which includes engaging in actions or statements that put an individual in
fear of bodily harm.
7. Hazing, which includes any intentional or reckless act directed against another for the
purpose of initiation into, affiliating with or maintaining membership in any school
sponsored activity, organization, club or team.
8. Selling, using or possessing obscene material.
9. Using vulgar or abusive language, cursing or swearing.
10. Smoking a cigarette, cigar, pipe or using chewing or smokeless tobacco.
11. Possessing, consuming, selling, distributing or exchanging alcoholic beverages or illegal
substances, or being under the influence of either. Illegal substances include, but are not
limited to, inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, steroids, lookalike drugs, and any substances commonly referred to as designer drugs.
12. Inappropriately using or sharing prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
13. Gambling.
14. Indecent exposure, that is, exposure to sight of the private parts of the body in a lewd or
indecent manner.
15. Initiating a report warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause, misuse of 911,
or discharging a fire extinguisher.
F. Engage in misconduct while on a school bus
It is crucial for students to behave appropriately while riding on school buses to ensure their
safety and that of other passengers and to avoid distracting the bus driver. Students are
required to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with established standards
for classroom behavior. Excessive noise, pushing, shoving and fighting will not be tolerated.
G. Engage in any form of academic misconduct. Examples of academic misconduct include:

1. Plagiarism
2. Cheating
3. Copying
4. Altering records
5. Assisting another student in any of the above actions
VIII. Reporting Violations
All students are expected to promptly report violations of the code of conduct to a teacher, the
principal or his designee. Any student observing a student possessing a weapon, alcohol or illegal
substance on school property or at a school function shall report this information immediately to a
teacher, the principal, the principals designee or the Board.
All The Academy Charter School staff who are authorized to impose disciplinary sanctions are
expected to do so in a prompt, fair and lawful manner. The Academy Charter School staff
members who are not authorized to impose disciplinary sanctions are expected to promptly report
violations of the Code of Conduct to their supervisor, who shall in turn impose an appropriate
disciplinary sanction, if so authorized, or refer the matter to a staff member who is authorized to
impose an appropriate sanction.
Any weapon, alcohol or illegal substance found shall be confiscated immediately, if possible,
followed by notification to the parent of the student involved and the appropriate disciplinary
sanction if warranted, which may include permanent suspension and referral for prosecution.
The principal or his designee must notify the appropriate local law enforcement agency of those
code violations that constitute a crime and substantially affect the order or security of The
Academy Charter School as soon as practical, but in no event later than one business day after the
principal or his or her designee learns of the violation. The notification may be made by
telephone, followed by a letter mailed on the same day as the telephone call is made. The
notification must identify the student and explain the conduct that violated the code of conduct
and constituted a crime.
IX. Disciplinary Penalties, Procedures and Referrals

Discipline is most effective when it deals directly with the problem at the time and place it occurs,
and in a way that students view as fair and impartial. School personnel who interact with students
are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the
students ability to grow in self-discipline.
Disciplinary action, when necessary, will be firm, fair and consistent so as to be the most
effective in changing student behavior. In determining the appropriate disciplinary action, school
personnel authorized to impose disciplinary penalties will consider the following:
1. The students age.
2. The nature of the offense and the circumstances which led to the offense.
3. The students prior disciplinary record.
4. The effectiveness of other forms of discipline.

5. Information from parents, teachers and/or others, as appropriate
6. Other extenuating circumstances.
As a general rule, discipline will be progressive. This means that a students first violation will
usually merit a lighter penalty than subsequent violations.
If the conduct of a student is related to a disability or suspected disability, the student shall be
referred to the Committee on Special Education and discipline, if warranted, shall be administered
consistent with the separate requirements of this code of conduct for disciplining students with a
disability or presumed to have a disability. A student identified as having a disability shall not be
disciplined for behavior related to his/her disability.
A. Penalties
Students who are found to have violated The Academy Charter Schools code of conduct may be
subject to the following penalties, either alone or in combination. The school personnel identified
after each penalty are authorized to impose that penalty, consistent with the students right to due
process.
1. Oral warning any member of The Academy Charter School staff
2. Written warning teachers, Principal
3. Written notification to parent teachers, Principal
4. Detention teachers, Principal
5. Suspension from transportation Principal
6. Referrals teachers, Principal, Board
7. Suspension from social or extracurricular activities Principal
8. Suspension of other privileges teachers, Principal
9. In-school suspension Principal
10. Removal from classroom by teacher teachers, Principal
11. Short-term (five days or less) suspension from school Principal, Board
12. Long-term (more than five days) suspension from school Principal, Board
13. Expulsion Board
B. Procedures
The amount of due process a student is entitled to receive before a penalty is imposed depends on
the penalty being imposed. In all cases, regardless of the penalty imposed, the school personnel
authorized to impose the penalty must inform the student of the alleged misconduct and must
investigate, to the extent necessary, the facts surrounding the alleged misconduct. All students
will have an opportunity to present their version of the facts to the school personnel imposing the
disciplinary penalty in connection with the imposition of the penalty.
School administrators shall adopt the following due process procedures
Student shall have an opportunity to present his/her version of the facts.
School administrator shall conduct an investigation and consult with witnesses.
Upon a determination that a violation has been committed school administrator

shall provide the parent/guardian of the student with a summary of incident and the
form of discipline to which the student shall be subject.
Parent may arrange a Principal/Parent Conference to discuss the Code of Conduct
violation and the school administrators determination.
Parent may elect to appeal school administrators determination and form of discipline by
submitting a letter of appeal to the School Board of Trustees.
Students who are to be given penalties other than an oral warning, written warning or written
notification to their parents are entitled to additional rights before the penalty is imposed. These
additional rights are explained below.
Detention
Teachers and the principal may use after school detention as a penalty for student misconduct in
situations where removal from the classroom or suspension would be inappropriate. Detention
will be imposed as a penalty only after the students parent has been notified to confirm that there
is no parental objection to the penalty and the student has appropriate transportation home
following detention.
Suspension from transportation
If a student does not conduct himself/herself properly on a bus, the bus driver is expected to bring
such misconduct to the principals attention. Students who become a serious disciplinary problem
may have their riding privileges suspended by the principal or his designee. In such cases, the
students parent will become responsible for seeing that his or her child gets to and from school
safely. Should the suspension from transportation amount to a suspension from attendance, The
Academy Charter School will make appropriate arrangements to provide for the students
education.
A student subjected to a suspension from transportation is not entitled to a full hearing pursuant to
Education Law 3214. However, the student and the students parent will be provided with a
reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with the principal or the principals designee to
discuss the conduct and the penalty involved.
Suspension from extra-curricular activities and other privileges
A student subjected to a suspension from extra-curricular activities or other privileges is not
entitled to a full hearing pursuant to Education Law 3214. However, the student and the
students parent will be provided with a reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with
The Academy Charter School official imposing the suspension to discuss the conduct and the
penalty involved.
In-school suspension
The Board recognizes the school must balance the need of students to attend school and the need
for order in the classroom to establish an environment conducive to learning. As such, the board
authorizes the principal to place students who would otherwise be suspended from school as the
result of a code of conduct violation in in-school suspension. The in-school suspension teacher
will be a certified teacher, if practicable.
A student subjected to an in-school suspension is not entitled to a full hearing pursuant to

Education Law 3214. However, the student and the students parent will be provided with a
reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with The Academy Charter School official
imposing the in-school suspension to discuss the conduct and the penalty involved.
1. Teacher disciplinary removal of disruptive students
A students behavior can affect a teachers ability to teach and can make it difficult for other
students in the classroom to learn. In most instances the classroom teacher can control a students
behavior and maintain or restore control over the classroom by using good classroom
management techniques.
These techniques may include practices that involve the teacher
directing a student to briefly leave the classroom to give the student an opportunity to regain his
or her composure and self-control in an alternative setting. Such practices may include, but are
not limited to: (1) short-term time out in another classroom or in an administrators office; (2)
talking with the student in the hallway briefly; (3) sending a student (escorted by an adult) to the
principals office for a brief period of time; or (4) sending a student to another appropriate The
Academy Charter School staff member for brief counseling. Time-honored classroom
management techniques such as these do not constitute disciplinary removals for purposes of this
code.
On occasion, a students behavior may become disruptive. For purposes of this code of conduct,
a disruptive student is a student who is substantially disruptive of the educational process or
substantially interferes with the teachers authority over the classroom. A substantial disruption of
the educational process or substantial interference with a teachers authority occurs when a
student demonstrates a persistent unwillingness to comply with the teachers instructions or
repeatedly violates the teachers classroom behavior rules.
A classroom teacher may remove a disruptive student from class for up to two days. The removal
from class applies to the class of the removing teacher only.
If the disruptive student does not pose a danger or on-going threat of disruption to the academic
process, the teacher must provide the student with an explanation for why he or she is being
removed and an opportunity to explain his or her version of the relevant events before the student
is removed. Only after the informal discussion may a teacher remove a student from class.
If the student poses a danger or ongoing threat of disruption, the teacher may order the student to
be removed immediately. The teacher must, however, explain to the student why he or she was
removed from the classroom and give the student a chance to present his or her version of the
relevant events within 24-hours. If a teacher orders a student to be removed immediately, the
student will be sent to the principal/or guidance counselor depending on the nature of the incident
The teacher must complete a school-established disciplinary removal form and meet with the
principal or his designee as soon as possible, but no later than the end of the school day, to
explain the circumstances of the removal and to present the removal form. If the principal or
designee is not available by the end of the same school day, the teacher must leave the form with
the secretary and meet with the principal or designee prior to the beginning of classes on the next
school day.
Within 24-hours after the students removal, the principal or another The Academy Charter
School administrator designated by the principal must notify the students parents, in writing, that
the student has been removed from class and why. The notice must also inform the parent that he
or she has the right, upon request, to meet informally with the principal or the principals designee
to discuss the reasons for the removal.
The written notice must be provided by personal delivery, express mail delivery, or some other
means that is reasonably calculated to assure receipt of the notice within 24 hours of the students
removal at the last known address for the parents. Where possible, notice should also be provided
by telephone if the school has been provided with a telephone number(s) for the purpose of
contacting parents.
The principal may require the teacher who ordered the removal to attend the informal conference.
If at the informal meeting the student denies the charges, the principal or the principals designee
must explain why the student was removed and give the student and the students parents a
chance to present the students version of the relevant events. The informal meeting must be held
within 48 hours of the students removal. The timing of the informal meeting may be extended by
mutual agreement of the parent and principal.
The principal or the principals designee may overturn the removal of the student from class if the
principal finds any one of the following:
1. The charges against the student are not supported by substantial evidence.
2. The students removal is otherwise in violation of law, including The Academy Charter
School code of conduct.
3. The conduct warrants suspension from school pursuant to Education Law 3214 and a
suspension will be imposed.
The principal or his or her designee may overturn a removal at any point between receiving the
referral form issued by the teacher and the close of business on the day following the 48-hour
period for the informal conference, if a conference is requested. No student removed from the
classroom by the classroom teacher will be permitted to return to the classroom until the principal
makes a final determination, or the period of removal expires, whichever is less.
Any disruptive student removed from the classroom by the classroom teacher shall be offered
continued educational programming and activities until he or she is permitted to return to the
classroom.
Each teacher must keep a complete log (on a The Academy Charter School provided form) for all
cases of removal of students from his or her class. The principal must keep a log of all removals
of students from class.
Code of Conduct
Removal of a student with a disability, under certain circumstances, may constitute a change in
the students placement. Accordingly, no teacher may remove a student with a disability from his
or her class until he or she has verified with the principal or the chairperson of the Committee on
Special Education that the removal will not violate the students rights under state or federal law
or regulation.
6. Suspension from school
Suspension from school is a severe penalty, which may be imposed only upon students who are
insubordinate, disorderly, violent or disruptive, or whose conduct otherwise endangers the safety,
morals, health or welfare of others.
The board retains its authority to suspend students, but places primary responsibility for the
suspension of students with the principal.
All suspended students will receive alternate instruction within 24 hours of suspension.
Any staff member may recommend to the principal that a student be suspended. All staff
members must immediately report and refer a violent student to the principal for a violation of the
code of conduct. All recommendations and referrals shall be made in writing unless the
conditions underlying the recommendation or referral warrant immediate attention. In such cases
a written report is to be prepared as soon as possible by the staff member recommending the
suspension.
The principal, upon receiving a recommendation, or referral for suspension, or when processing a
case for suspension, shall gather the facts relevant to the matter and record them for subsequent
presentation, if necessary.
A. Procedures and Due Process for Disciplinary Action: Short-Term Suspension
If a student commits an offense that calls for short-term suspension (10 days or less), student is
afforded the due process rights required by Grass v. Lopez 419 (U.S. 565 (1975). Such student is
subject to the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
If necessary, the student is immediately removed from class and/or school;

The student is entitled to respond to the charges against him/her;
The Principal or his/her designee addresses the conduct and assigns an appropriate
consequence;
The parent/guardian is notified by the Principal or his/her designee; and
A parent or guardian may be required to meet with the Principal or his/her designee(s)
regarding infraction prior to a students return to school.
B. Procedures and Due Process for Disciplinary Action: Long-Term Suspension or Expulsion
If a student commits an offense that calls for long-term suspension (more than 10 days) or
expulsion, the following steps are taken:
1. If necessary, the student is immediately removed from class and/or school;
2. The parent/guardian is notified by the Principal or his/her designee
3. The school sets a hearing date; the student and/or his parent/guardian are notified in
writing of the:
a. Charges and a statement of the evidence;
b. Date, time and place of a hearing and

c. Notice of the right at a hearing to be represented by legal counsel (at the
students/parents own expense) and present evidence and question witnesses;
4. After hearing the case, the Principal or his/her designee issues a written decision to be sent
to the student, the parent/guardian, the schools Board of Trustees, and the students
permanent record;
5. Any student who is expelled or given a long-term suspension (more than 10 days) has the
right to appeal the decision in writing to the Board of Trustees within 10 days of the date
of expulsion;
6. Any appeal is heard at the discretion of the Board Chairperson, by the Superintendent or
by a Trustee subcommittee (of one or more Trustees designated by the Board
Chairperson); in such a case, the school sets a hearing date and the student and/or his/her
parent/guardian are notified in writing of the:
a. Charges and a statement of the evidence
b. Date, time and place of hearing; and
c. Notice of the right at the hearing to be represented by legal counsel (at the
students/parents own expense) and present evidence and question witnesses.
A students parent/guardian must submit to the Board Chair a letter of appeal within 5 calendar
days of the principals recommendation of suspension or expulsion. The letter must include the
reason for the request and any special or extenuating circumstances that may support the reversal
of the recommended penalty. The Board Chair will present the request for appeal before the
entire Board of Trustees for review and determination. A final determination letter will be sent to
the students parent or guardian indicating approval or denial of an appeal.
C. Minimum Periods of Suspension

1. Students who bring a weapon to school
Any student, other than a student with a disability, found guilty of bringing a weapon onto school
property will be subject to suspension from school for at least one calendar year. Before being
suspended, the student will have an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to Education Law 3214.
The Board has the authority to modify the one-year suspension on a case-by-case basis. In
deciding whether to modify the penalty, the Board may consider the following:
1. The students age.
2. The students grade in school.
3. The students prior disciplinary record.
4. The Board believes that other forms of discipline may be more effective.
5. Input from parents, teachers and/or others.
6. Other extenuating circumstances.
A student with a disability may be suspended only in accordance with the requirements of state
and federal law.
2. Students who commit violent acts other than bringing a weapon to school
Any student, other than a student with a disability, who is found to have committed a violent act,
other than bringing a weapon onto school property, shall be subject to suspension from school for
at least five days. If the proposed penalty is the minimum five-day suspension, the student and the
students parents will be given the same notice and opportunity for an informal conference given
to all students subject to a short-term suspension. If the proposed penalty exceeds the minimum
five-day suspension, the student and the students parents will be given the same notice and
opportunity for a hearing given to all students subject to a long-term suspension. The Board has
the authority to modify the minimum five-day suspension on a case-by-case basis. In deciding
whether to modify the penalty, the Board may consider the same factors considered in modifying
a one-year suspension for possessing a weapon.
3. Students who are repeatedly and substantially disruptive of the educational process or
repeatedly and substantially interferes with the teachers authority over the classroom
Any student, other than a student with a disability, who repeatedly is substantially disruptive of
the educational process or substantially interferes with the teachers authority over the classroom,
will be suspended from school for at least five days. For purposes of this code of conduct,
repeatedly is substantially disruptive means engaging in conduct that results in the student
being removed from the classroom by teacher(s) pursuant to Education Law 3214(3-a) and this
code on four or more occasions during a semester. If the proposed penalty is the minimum fiveday suspension, the student and the students parent will be given the same notice and opportunity
for an informal conference given to all students subject to a short-term suspension. If the
proposed penalty exceeds the minimum five-day suspension, the student and the students parent
will be given the same notice and opportunity for a hearing given to all students subject to a longterm suspension. The Board has the authority to modify the minimum five-day suspension on a
case-by-case basis. In deciding whether to modify the penalty, the Board may consider the same
factors considered in modifying a one-year suspension for possessing a weapon.
D. Referrals
1. Counseling
The principal shall handle all referrals of students to counseling. The principal will meet with the
Pupil Personnel Committee.
They will review all anecdotes; they will review all parent
conference minutes as well. If the child does not have an IEP, the principal in consultation with
the Pupil Personnel Committee will determine the nature and frequency of the counseling that
may be required.
2. PINS Petitions
The Academy Charter School may file a Person In Need of Supervision (PINS) petition in
Family Court on any student who demonstrates that he or she requires supervision and treatment
by:
a. Being habitually truant and not attending school as required by part one of Article 65 of
the Education Law.
b. Engaging in an ongoing or continual course of conduct which makes the student
ungovernable or habitually disobedient and beyond the lawful control of the school.
c. Knowingly and unlawfully possesses marijuana in violation of Penal Law 221.05. A

single violation of 221.05 will be a sufficient basis for filing a PINS petition.
3. Juvenile Delinquents and Juvenile Offenders
The principal is required to refer the following students to the County Attorney for a juvenile
delinquency proceeding before the Family Court:
a. Any student who is found to have brought a weapon to school.
X. Alternative Instruction
When a student of any age is removed from class by a teacher or a student of compulsory
attendance age is suspended from school pursuant to Education Law 3214, The Academy
Charter School will take immediate steps to provide alternative means of instruction for the
student. The school will make provisions for alternative instruction for a suspended student
during the entire suspension period and for an expelled student until the student is enrolled in
another school or until the end of the school year, whichever comes first. The location of the
alternative instruction will be reasonably accessible to the student. Alternative instruction will
not be the provision of homework, assignments, or study hall. The board ensures that the
alternative instruction provided will be sufficient to enable the student to make adequate
academic progress. The assignments given to each student for the period of time he/she is
suspended will correlate with the curriculum topics that are being taught through the time of
suspension. The assignments are provided by the classroom teacher in consultation with the
principal and instructional coaches to ensure alignment. When the student returns, his/her work
will be reviewed and if necessary tutorials will be set-up to bridge any gaps.
XI. Corporal Punishment
Corporal punishment is any act of physical force upon a student for the purpose of punishing that
student. Corporal punishment of any student by any The Academy Charter School employee is
strictly forbidden.
However, in situations where alternative procedures and methods that do not involve the use of
physical force cannot reasonably be used, reasonable physical force may be used to:
1. Protect oneself, another student, teacher or any person from physical injury.
2. Protect the property of the school or others.
3. Restrain or remove a student whose behavior interferes with the orderly exercise and
performance of school functions, powers and duties, if that student has refused to refrain
from further disruptive acts.
In all cases, the physical force used shall overcome resistance from the student only and be
terminated when the student ceases his/her actions. The amount and type of force used shall be
commensurate with the students age, physical characteristics, and disability. School employees
shall attempt to use a type of force designed to subdue the student.
The Academy Charter School will file all complaints about the use of corporal punishment with
the Board for further review.
XII. Student Searches and Interrogations

The board is committed to ensuring an atmosphere on school property and at school functions that
is safe and orderly. To achieve this kind of environment, any school official authorized to impose
a disciplinary penalty on a student may question a student about an alleged violation of law or
The Academy Charter School code of conduct. Students are not entitled to any sort of Mirandatype warning before being questioned by school officials, nor are school officials required to
contact a students parent before questioning the student. However, school officials will tell all
students why they are being questioned.
In addition, the board authorizes the principal and other school personnel it deems appropriate to
conduct searches of students and their belongings if the authorized school official has reasonable
suspicion to believe that the search will result in evidence that the student violated the law or The
Academy Charter School code of conduct.
An authorized school official may conduct a search of a students belongings that is minimally
intrusive, such as touching the outside of a book bag, without reasonable suspicion, so long as the
school official has a legitimate reason for the very limited search.
An authorized school official may search a student or the students belongings based upon
information received from a reliable informant. Individuals, other than The Academy Charter
Schools employees, will be considered reliable informants if they have previously supplied
information that was accurate and verified, or they make an admission against their own interest,
or they provide the same information that is received independently from other sources, or they
appear to be credible and the information they are communicating relates to an immediate threat
to safety. The Academy Charter School employees will be considered reliable informants unless
they are known to have previously supplied information that they knew was not accurate.
Before searching a student or the students belongings, the authorized school official should
attempt to get the student to admit that he or she possesses physical evidence that they violated
the law or The Academy Charter School code or get the student to voluntarily consent to the
search. Searches will be limited to the extent necessary to locate the evidence sought.
Whenever possible, searches will be conducted in the privacy of administrative offices and
students will be present when their possessions are being searched.
A. Student Lockers, Desks and other School Storage Places
The rules in this code of conduct regarding searches of students and their belongings do not apply
to student lockers, desks and other school storage places. Students have no reasonable expectation
of privacy with respect to these places and school officials retain complete control over them.
This means that student lockers, desks and other school storage places may be subject to search at
any time by school officials, without prior notice to students and without their consent.
B. Documentation of Searches
The authorized school official conducting the search shall be responsible for promptly recording
the following information about each search:
1. Name, age, and grade of student searched.
2. Reasons for the search.
3. Name of any informant(s).
4. Purpose of search (that is, what item(s) were being sought).
5. Type and scope of search.
6. Person conducting search and his or her title and position.
7. Witnesses, if any, to the search.
8. Time and location of search.
9. Results of search (that is, what items(s) were found).
10. Disposition of items found.
11. Time, manner, and results of parental notification.
The principal or the principals designee shall be responsible for the custody, control and
disposition of any illegal or dangerous item taken from a student. The principal or his or her
designee shall clearly label each item taken from the student and retain control of the item(s),
until the item is turned over to the police. The principal or his or her designee shall be responsible
for personally delivering dangerous or illegal items to police authorities.
C. Police Involvement in Searches and Interrogations of Students

The Academy Charter School is committed to cooperating with police officials and other law
enforcement authorities to maintain a safe school environment. Police officials, however, have
limited authority to interview or search students in schools or at school functions or to use school
facilities in connection with police work. Police officials may enter school property or a school
function to question or search a student or to conduct a formal investigation involving students
only if they have:
1. A search or an arrest warrant; or
2. Probable cause to believe a crime has been committed on school property or at a school
function; or
3. Been invited by school officials.
Before police officials are permitted to question or search any student, the principal or his or her
designee shall first try to notify the students parent to give the parent the opportunity to be
present during the police questioning or search. If the students parent cannot be contacted prior
to the police questioning or search, the questioning or search shall not be conducted. The
principal or designee will also be present during any police questioning or search of a student on
school property or at a school function.
Students who are questioned by police officials on school property or at a school function will be
afforded the same rights they have outside the school. This means:
1. They must be informed of their legal rights.
2. They may remain silent if they so desire.
3. They may request the presence of an attorney.
D. Child Protective Services Investigations

Consistent with The Academy Charter Schools commitment to keep students safe from harm and
the obligation of school officials to report to child protective services when they have reasonable
cause to suspect that a student has been abused or maltreated, The Academy Charter School will
cooperate with local child protective services workers who wish to conduct interviews of students
on school property relating to allegations of suspected child abuse, and/or neglect, or custody
investigations.
All requests by child protective services to interview a student on school property shall be made
directly to the principal or his or her designee. The principal or his or her designee shall set the
time and place of the interview. The principal or designee shall decide if it is necessary and
appropriate for a school official to be present during the interview, depending on the age of the
student being interviewed and the nature of the allegations. If the nature of the allegations is such
that it may be necessary for the student to remove any of his or her clothing in order for the child
protective services worker to verify the allegations, the school nurse or other The Academy
Charter School medical personnel must be present during that portion of the interview. No student
may be required to remove his or her clothing in front of a child protective services worker or The
Academy Charter School official of the opposite sex.
A child protective services worker may not remove a student from school property without a
court order, unless the worker reasonably believes that the student would be subject to danger of
abuse if not he or she were not removed from school before a court order can reasonably be
obtained. If the worker believes the student would be subject to danger of abuse, the worker may
remove the student without a court order and without the parents consent.
XIII. Visitors to the Schools
Schools are a place of work and learning, however, certain limits must be set for such visits. The
principal or the principals designee is responsible for all persons in the building and on the
grounds. For these reasons, the following rules apply to visitors to the schools:
1. Anyone who is not a regular staff member or student of the school will be considered a
visitor.
2. All visitors over 18 years of age will be required to present a valid NY State or a
government issued photo ID. Upon clearance, visitors will be required to sign the guest log
and will be issued a visitors pass. Visitors are required to carry the pass with them at all
times and to abide by all conduct rules and regulations. Visitor passes are only valid for the
area for which it was issued. The visitor must return the pass to the security before leaving
the building.
3. Visitors will only be permitted to enter the school property when:
a. Conducting relevant school business
b. Attending to the affairs of a student
c. Attending a pre-scheduled appointment
4. Parents who wish to observe a classroom while school is in session are required to arrange
such visits in advance with the principal and classroom teacher(s).
5. Teachers are not permitted to take class time to discuss individual matters with visitors.
6. All unauthorized individuals will be escorted off school property by security and law
enforcement will be notified when deemed necessary.
XIV. Public Conduct on Schools Property

The Academy Charter School is committed to providing an orderly, respectful environment that is
conducive to learning. To create and maintain this kind of an environment, it is necessary to
regulate public conduct on school property and at school functions. For purposes of this section of
the code, public shall mean all persons when on school property or attending a school function
including students, teachers and The Academy Charter School personnel.
The restrictions on public conduct on school property and at school functions contained in this
code are not intended to limit freedom of speech or peaceful assembly. The Academy Charter
School recognizes that free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the objectives of The
Academy Charter School. The purpose of this code is to maintain public order and prevent abuse
of the rights of others.
All persons on school property or attending a school function shall conduct themselves in a
respectful and orderly manner. In addition, all persons on school property or attending a school
function are expected to be properly attired for the purpose they are on school property.
A. Prohibited Conduct
No person, either alone or with others, shall:
1. Intentionally injure any person or threaten to do so.
2. Intentionally damage or destroy The Academy Charter School property or the personal
property of a teacher, administrator, other employee or any person lawfully on school
property.
3. Disrupt the orderly conduct of classes, school programs or other school activities.
4. Distribute or wear materials on school grounds or at school functions that are obscene,
advocate illegal action, appear libelous, obstruct the rights of others, or are disruptive to
the school program.
5. Intimidate, harass or discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, creed,
national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation or disability.
6. Enter any portion of the school premises without authorization or remain in any building or
facility after it is normally closed.
7. Obstruct the free movement of any person in any place to which this code applies.
8. Violate the traffic laws, parking regulations or other restrictions on vehicles.
9. Possess, consume, sell, distribute or exchange alcoholic beverages, controlled substances,
or be under the influence of either on school property or at a school function.
10. Possess or use weapons in or on school property or at a school function, except in the case
of law enforcement officers or except as specifically authorized by The Academy Charter
School.
11. Loiter on or about school property.
12. Gamble on school property or at school functions.
13. Refuse to comply with any reasonable order of identifiable school officials performing
their duties.
14. Willfully incite others to commit any of the acts prohibited by this code.
15. Violate any federal or state statute, local ordinance or board policy while on school
property or while at a school function.
B. Penalties
Persons who violate this code shall be subject to the following penalties:
1. Visitors. Their authorization, if any, to remain on school grounds or at the school function
shall be withdrawn and they shall be directed to leave the premises. If they refuse to leave,
they shall be subject to ejection.
2. Students. They shall be subject to disciplinary action as the facts may warrant, in
accordance with the due process requirements.
3. Staff members. They shall be subject to warning, reprimand, suspension or dismissal as the
facts may warrant in accordance with any legal rights they may have.
C. Enforcement
The principal or his or her designee shall be responsible for enforcing the conduct required by this
code.
When the principal or his or her designee sees an individual engaged in prohibited conduct, which
in his or her judgment does not pose any immediate threat of injury to persons or property, the
principal or his or her designee shall tell the individual that the conduct is prohibited and attempt
to persuade the individual to stop. The principal or his or her designee shall also warn the
individual of the consequences for failing to stop. If the person refuses to stop engaging in the
prohibited conduct, or if the persons conduct poses an immediate threat of injury to persons or
property, the principal or his or her designee shall have the individual removed immediately from
school property or the school function. If necessary, local law enforcement authorities will be
contacted to assist in removing the person.
The Academy Charter School shall initiate disciplinary action against any student or staff
member, as appropriate, with the Penalties section above. In addition, the school reserves its
right to pursue a civil or criminal legal action against any person violating the code.
XV. Dissemination and Review
A. Dissemination of Code of Conduct
The board will work to ensure that the community is aware of this code of conduct by:
1. Providing copies of a summary of the code to all students at the beginning of each school
year.
2. Making copies of the code available to all parents at the beginning of the school year.
3. Providing all current teachers and other staff members with a copy of the code and a copy
of any amendments to the code as soon as practicable after adoption.
4. Providing all new employees with a copy of the current code of conduct when they are first
hired.
5. Making copies of the code available for students, parents and other community members.
The Academy Charter Schools management partner will sponsor an in-service education
program for all staff members to ensure the effective implementation of the code of conduct. The
Board may solicit the recommendations of The Academy Charter School staff, particularly
teachers.
XVI. Discipline of Students with Disabilities

The board recognizes that it may be necessary to suspend, remove or otherwise discipline
students with disabilities to address disruptive behavior. The board also recognizes that students
with disabilities enjoy certain procedural protections whenever school authorities intend to
impose discipline upon them. The board is committed to ensuring that the procedures followed
for suspending, removing or otherwise disciplining students with disabilities are consistent with
the procedural safeguards required by applicable laws and regulations.
This code of conduct affords students with disabilities subject to disciplinary action no greater or
lesser rights than those expressly afforded by applicable federal and state law and regulations.
A. Authorized Suspensions or Removals of Students with Disabilities
1. For purposes of this section of the code of conduct, the following definitions apply.
A suspension means a suspension pursuant to Education Law 3214 (3) (a) through (d).
A removal means a removal for disciplinary reasons from the students current educational
placement other than a suspension and change in placement to an interim alternative educational
setting (IAES) ordered by an impartial hearing officer because the student poses a risk of harm to
himself or herself or others.
An IAES means a temporary educational placement for a period of up to 45 days, other than the
students current placement at the time the behavior precipitating the IAES placement occurred,
that enables the student to continue to progress in the general curriculum, although in another
setting, to continue to receive those services and modifications, including those described on the
students current individualized education program (IEP), that will enable the student to meet the
goals set out in such IEP, and include services and modifications to address the behavior which
precipitated the IAES placement that are designed to prevent the behavior from recurring.
2. School personnel may order the suspension or removal of a student with a disability from his
or her current educational placement as follows:
a. The principal or the Board may order the placement of a student with a disability into
an appropriate IAES, another setting or suspension for a period not to exceed five
consecutive school days and not to exceed the amount of time a non-disabled student
would be subject to suspension for the same behavior.
b. The principal may order the placement of a student with a disability into an IAES,
another setting or suspension for up to 10 consecutive school days, inclusive of any period
in which the student has been suspended or removed under subparagraph (a) above for the
same behavior, if the principal determines that the student has engaged in behavior that
warrants a suspension and the suspension or removal does not exceed the amount of time
non-disabled students would be subject to suspension for the same behavior.
c. The principal may order additional suspensions of not more than 10 consecutive school
days in the same school year for separate incidents of misconduct, as long as those
removals do not constitute a change of placement.
d. A student with a disability may not be removed pursuant to subdivision (b) or (c) of
this section if imposition of the 5 school day or 10 school day suspension or removal
would result in a disciplinary change in placement based on a pattern of suspensions or
removals as determined by school personnel in accordance with the criteria set forth in
section B(1)(b) below, except where the committee on special education (CSE) has
determined that the behavior was not a manifestation of such student's disability, or the
student is placed in an IAES as authorized under subdivision (e) of this section.
e. The principal may order the placement of a student with a disability in an IAES to be
determined by the CSE, for the same amount of time that a student without a disability
would be subject to discipline, but not more than 45 days, if the student carries or
possesses a weapon to school or to a school function, or the student knowingly possesses
or uses illegal drugs or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance while at school or
a school function.
1) Weapon means the same as dangerous weapon under 18 U.S.C. 930(g)(w)
which includes a weapon, device, instrument, material or substance, animate or
inanimate, that is used for, or is readily capable of causing death or serious
bodily injury, except...[for] a pocket knife with a blade of less than 2 1/2 inches
in length.
2) Controlled substance means a drug or other substance identified in certain
provisions of the federal Controlled Substances Act specified in both federal and
state law and regulations applicable to this policy.
3) Illegal drugs means a controlled substance except for those legally possessed
or used under the supervision of a licensed health-care professional or that is
legally possessed or used under any other authority under the Controlled
Substances Act or any other federal law.
4. Subject to specified conditions required by both federal and state law and regulations, an
impartial hearing officer may order the placement of a student with a disability in an IAES setting
for up to 45 days at a time, if maintaining the student in his or her current educational placement
poses a risk of harm to the student or others.
B. Change of Placement Rule

1. A disciplinary change in placement means a suspension or removal from a students current
educational placement that is either:
a. for more than 10 consecutive school days; or
b. for a period of 10 consecutive school days or less if the student is subjected to a series
of suspensions or removals that constitute a pattern because they cumulate to more than
10 school days in a school year and because of such factors as the length of each
suspension or removal, the total amount of time the student is removed and the
proximity of the suspensions or removals to one another.
2. School personnel may not suspend or remove a student with disabilities if imposition of the
suspension or removal would result in a disciplinary change in placement based on a pattern
of suspension or removal.
However, The Academy Charter School may impose a suspension or removal, which would
otherwise result in a disciplinary change in placement, based on a pattern of suspensions or
removals if the CSE has determined that the behavior was not a manifestation of the students
disability, or the student is placed in an IAES for behavior involving weapons, illegal drugs or
controlled substances.
C. Special Rules Regarding the Suspension or Removal of Students with Disabilities

1. The Committee on Special Education shall:
a. Conduct functional behavioral assessments to determine why a student engages in a
particular behavior, and develop or review behavioral intervention plans whenever The
Academy Charter School is first suspending or removing a student with a disability for
more than 10 school days in a school year or imposing a suspension or removal that
constitutes a disciplinary change in placement, including a change in placement to an
IAES for misconduct involving weapons, illegal drugs or controlled substances.
If subsequently, a student with a disability who has a behavioral intervention plan and who has
been suspended or removed from his or her current educational placement for more than 10
school days in a school year is subjected to a suspension or removal that does not constitute a
disciplinary change in placement, the members of the CSE shall review the behavioral
intervention plan and its implementation to determine if modifications are necessary.
If one or more members of the CSE believe that modifications are needed, The Academy Charter
School shall request that the CSE convene a meeting to modify such plan and its implementation,
to the extent the committee determines necessary.
b. Conduct a manifestation determination review of the relationship between the students
disability and the behavior subject to disciplinary action whenever a decision is made
to place a student in an IAES either for misconduct involving weapons, illegal drugs or
controlled substances or because maintaining the student in his current educational
setting poses a risk of harm to the student or others; or a decision is made to impose a
suspension that constitutes a disciplinary change in placement.
Except as otherwise provided in subdivision 2(b) below, The Academy Charter School shall be
deemed to have knowledge that such student had a disability if prior to the time the behavior
occurred:
(1) the parent of such student has expressed concern to school district personnel in writing
that the student is in need of special education, provided that such expression of
concern may be oral if the parent does not know how to write or has a disability that
prevents a written statement; or
(2) the behavior or performance of the student demonstrates the need for special education
in accordance with the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, Part 200.1(mm),
(ww), and (zz); or
(3) the parent of the student has requested that an individual evaluation of the student be
conducted pursuant to the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, Part 200.4
subdivision (b); or
(4) a teacher of the student, or other personnel of the school district, has expressed concern
about the behavior or performance of the student to the director of special education or
to other school district personnel in accordance with the district's established child find
or special education referral system.
2. The parents of a student who is facing disciplinary action, but who has not been determined to
be eligible for services under IDEA and Article 89 at the time of misconduct, shall have the
right to invoke applicable procedural safeguards set forth in federal and state law and
regulations if, in accordance with federal and state statutory and regulatory criteria, The
Academy Charter School is deemed to have had knowledge that their child was a student with
a disability before the behavior precipitating disciplinary action occurred, as outlined in
section C(1)(b) above. If The Academy Charter School is deemed to have had such
knowledge, the student will be considered a student presumed to have a disability for
discipline purposes.
a. The principal or other school official imposing a suspension or removal shall be
responsible for determining whether the student is a student presumed to have a
disability.
b. A student will not be considered a student presumed to have a disability for discipline
purposes if, upon receipt of information supporting a claim that The Academy Charter
School had knowledge the student was a student with a disability, The Academy
Charter School either:
1) conducted an individual evaluation and determined that the student is not a
student with a disability, or
2) determined that an evaluation was not necessary and provided notice to the
parents of such determination, in the manner required by applicable law and
regulations.
If there is no basis for knowledge that the student is a student with a disability prior to taking
disciplinary measures against the student, the student may be subjected to the same disciplinary
measures as any other non-disabled student who engaged in comparable behaviors.
However, if a request for an individual evaluation is made while such non-disabled student is
subjected to a disciplinary removal, an expedited evaluation shall be conducted and completed in
the manner prescribed by applicable federal and state law and regulations and shall be conducted
by the CSE of the students district of residence no later than 15 school days after receipt of
parental consent for evaluation. Until the expedited evaluation is completed, the non-disabled
student who is not a student presumed to have a disability for discipline purposes shall remain in
the educational placement determined by The Academy Charter School, which can include
suspension. If, as a result of an expedited evaluation, the student is determined to be a student
with a disability, The Academy Charter School shall provide special education to the student
pursuant to the level of services offered in The Academy Charter School charter in accordance
with federal and state regulations relating to students with disabilities.
3. The Academy Charter School shall provide parents with notice of disciplinary removal no
later than the date on which a decision is made to change the placement of a student with a
disability to an IAES for either misconduct involving weapons, illegal drugs or controlled
substances or because maintaining the student in his/her current educational setting poses a
risk of harm to the student or others; or a decision is made to impose a suspension or removal
that constitutes a disciplinary change in placement.
The procedural safeguards notice prescribed by the Commissioner shall accompany the notice of
disciplinary removal.
4. The parents of a student with disabilities subject to a suspension of five consecutive school
days or less shall be provided with the same opportunity for an informal conference available
to parents of non-disabled students under the Education Law.
5 The removal of a student with disabilities other than a suspension or placement in an IAES
shall be conducted in accordance with the due process procedures applicable to such removals of
non-disabled students, except that school personnel may not impose such removal for more than
10 consecutive days or for a period that would result in a disciplinary change in placement,
unless the CSE has determined that the behavior is not a manifestation of the students disability.
6. (a) During any period of suspension, a student with a disability shall be provided services
to the extent required under the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act (20 U.S.C. sections 1400 et seq.), 34 C.F.R. section 300.121 (United States Code,
1994 edition, Supplement III, Volume 2, 1998; Code of Federal Regulations, 1999 edition;
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 204029328: 1999 - available at the Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals
with Disabilities, Room 1624, One Commerce Plaza, Albany, NY 12234) and paragraph
(e) of subdivision 3 of section 3214 of the Education Law. Nothing in this section shall be
construed to confer a greater right to services than is required under Education Law section
3214(3)(e) and such federal law and regulations.
(b) During suspensions or removals for periods of up to 10 school days in a school year
that do not constitute a disciplinary change in placement, students with disabilities of
compulsory attendance age shall be provided with alternative instruction pursuant to
Education Law section 3214(3)(e) on the same basis as nondisabled students. Students
with disabilities who are not of compulsory attendance age shall be entitled to receive
services during such suspensions only to the extent that services are provided to
nondisabled students of the same age who have been similarly suspended.
(c) During subsequent suspensions or removals for periods of 10 consecutive school days
or less that in the aggregate total more than 10 school days in a school year but do not
constitute a disciplinary change in placement, students with disabilities shall be provided
with services necessary to enable the student to appropriately progress in the general
curriculum and appropriately advance toward achieving the goals set out in the student's
IEP. The building principal, superintendent of schools or other school officials imposing
the suspension, or other school personnel delegated such authority, shall determine, in
consultation with the student's special education teacher, the extent to which services are
necessary to enable the student to appropriately progress in the general curriculum and
appropriately advance toward achieving the goals set out in the student's IEP.
(d) During suspensions or other disciplinary removals for periods in excess of 10 school
days in a school year which do constitute a disciplinary change in placement for behavior
that has been determined by the CSE not to be a manifestation of the student's disability,
students with disabilities shall be provided with services necessary to enable the student to
appropriately progress in the general curriculum and appropriately advance toward
achieving the goals set out in the student's IEP. The CSE shall determine the extent to
which services are necessary to enable the student to appropriately progress in the general
curriculum and appropriately advance toward achieving the goals set out in the student's
IEP.
D. Expedited Due Process Hearings

1. An expedited due process hearing shall be conducted if:
a. The Academy Charter School requests such a hearing to obtain an order of an
impartial hearing officer placing a student with a disability in an IAES where school
personnel maintain that it is dangerous for the student to be in his or her current
educational placement, or during the pendency of due process hearings where
school personnel maintain that it is dangerous for the student to be in his or her
current educational placement during such proceedings.
b. The parent requests such a hearing from a determination that the students behavior
was not a manifestation of the students disability, or relating to any decision
regarding placement, including but not limited to any decision to place the student
in an IAES.
1) During the pendency of an expedited due process hearing or appeal regarding
the placement of a student in an IAES for behavior involving weapons, illegal
drugs or controlled substances, or on grounds of dangerousness, or regarding
a determination that the behavior is not a manifestation of the students
disability for a student who has been placed in an IAES, the student shall
remain in the IAES pending the decision of the impartial hearing officer or
until expiration of the IAES placement, whichever occurs first, unless the
parents and The Academy Charter School agree otherwise.
2) If school personnel propose to change the students placement after
expiration of an IAES placement, during the pendency of any proceeding to
challenge the proposed change in placement, the student shall remain in the
placement prior to removal to the IAES, except where the student is again
placed in an IAES.
c. If a parent requests a hearing or an appeal regarding the change in placement of a
student to an IAES by a superintendent of schools pursuant to a change in
placement to an IAES pursuant to the Regulations of the Commissioner of
Education, Part 201.7 subdivision (e) for behavior involving carrying or possessing
a weapon or illegal drug or controlled substances, or regarding a change in
placement to an IAES by an impartial hearing officer pursuant to the Regulations of
the Commissioner of Education, Part 201.8 where The Academy Charter School
maintains that it is dangerous for the student to remain in his or her current
educational placement, or regarding a determination that the behavior is not a
manifestation of the student's disability for a student who has been placed in an
IAES, the student shall remain in the IAES pending the decision of the impartial
hearing office or until expiration of the time period determined in accordance with
Part 201.7 subdivision (e) or in accordance with Part 201.8, as applicable, but not to
exceed 45 days, whichever occurs first, unless the parents and the school district
otherwise agree.
An expedited due process hearing shall be completed within 15 calendar days of receipt of the
request for a hearing.
E. Referral to law enforcement and judicial authorities

In accordance with the provisions of IDEA and its implementing regulations:
1. The Academy Charter School may report a crime committed by a child with a disability
to appropriate authorities, and such action will not constitute a change of the students
placement.
2. The principal shall ensure that copies of the special education and disciplinary records
of a student with disabilities are transmitted for consideration to the appropriate
authorities to whom a crime is reported.
The Dignity for All Students Act

The New York State Dignity for All Students Act (The Dignity Act) was signed into
law on September 13, 2010. The Act is in response to the large number of harassed and
stigmatized students and prohibits discrimination in public schools by establishing the
basis for protective measures such as training and model policies. The Dignity Act takes a
major step in creating more nurturing environments in schools. The law also provides for
instruction in civility, citizenship and character education by expanding the concept of
tolerance and respect for others. It also provides for awareness and sensitivity in the
relations among students and staff with the respect to race, weight, nationality, ethnicity,
religion, sexual orientation, gender, and mental and physical abilities. The law was in
effect on July 1, 2012. Boards of Education are required to include language in the
schools code of conduct to comply with the Dignity Act.
The Dignity Act prohibits any discrimination based on actual or perceived
characteristics.
Students in public schools in New York State are protected from
discrimination and harassment. The act is unfunded and does not require any specific
curriculum but staff training is mandated. Training should begin taking place during
regular scheduled professional development sessions prior to July 1 st. Training could also
be scheduled during pre-service for the 2012-2013 school year, all staff working summer
school should be trained.
To date, the dean has attended two full-day information and training sessions
sponsored by the Nassau County BOCES. The dean will provide key information sessions
and training to all staff as follows:
Procedures and Responsibility of Staff:
Pre-service Training:
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the following:
Designate school personnel as Dignity Act Coordinator: March 2012

Board of Trustees Develop Policies and Review
Update and Approve Code of Conduct: May 31, 2012
Board of Trustees Approve Complaint Procedures Form
Social Media Policy Statement

It is important that we, The Academy Charter School, have sound practices in place to handle
situations involving social media. Emerging online collaboration platforms are fundamentally
changing the way schools and individuals communicate, and this policy is designed to offer
practical guidance for responsible, constructive communications via social media channels for
employees, parent and students.
The same principle guidelines that apply to the activities of employees and students in general, as
found in the Code of Conduct, apply to employee and student activities in social media channels
and any other form of online publishing.
We, The Academy Charter School, fully respect the legal rights of our employees and students.
Yet, it is important to weigh free speech and privacy rights against inappropriate communications
via social media. In general, what you do on your own time is a personal matter. However,
activities in or outside of work or school that affect your job or student performances, the
performance of others, or the schools interests, are proper focuses for school policy.
Definitions
1. Social Media Channels Blogs, micro-blogs, wikis, social networks, social bookmarking
services, user rating services and any other online collaboration, sharing or publishing
platform, whether accessed through the web, a mobile device, texting messaging, email or
any other existing or emerging communications platform.
2. Social Media Account A personalized presence inside a social networking channel,
initiated at will by an individual. YouTube, Twitter, Facebook and other social networking
channels allow user to sign-up for their own social media account, which they can use to
collaborate, interact and share content and status updates. When a user communicates
through a social media account, their disclosures are attributed to their User Profile.
3. Social Media Disclosures Blog posts, blog comments, status updates, text messages,
posts via email, images, audio recordings, video recordings or any other information made
available through a social media channel.
Social media disclosures are the actual
communications a user distributes through a social media channel, usually by means of
their social media account.
4. External vs Internal Social Media Channels External social media channels are social
media services that do not reside at a domain. Internal social media channels are located at
a owned domain, require a password to access and are only visible to employees and other
approved individuals.
5. Tweets and Retweets A tweet is a 140 character social media disclosure distributed on
the Twitter micro-blogging service. Retweets are tweets from one Twitter user that are
redistributed by another Twitter user. Retweets are how information propagates on
Twitter.
Objectives
1. Establish practical, reasonable and enforceable guidelines by which employees and students
can conduct responsible, constructive social media engagement in both official and unofficial
capacities.
2. Promote a safe environment for employees and students to communicate information that is not
proprietary and also outline for employees and students what type of electronic communication
is permissible.
3. Prepare our employees and students to utilize social media channels to help each other and the
communities we serve.
4. Protect our employees and students from violating Municipal, State or Federal rules,
regulations or laws through social media channels.
Guiding Principles
1. Teachers and other employees are banned from listing students as friends or Tweeting or
Retweeting on social network sites. All Social Media Disclosures by employees regarding
students on Social Media Channels are prohibited.
2. Only those officially designated can use social media to speak on behalf of the school, although
employees may use social media and Social Media Channels to speak for themselves
individually.
3. When you see misrepresentations made about the school by media, analyst, bloggers or other
social media users, you may certainly use you blog, social networking account, or someone
elses to point that out; But you may only do so if you follow the terms of this policy.
4. Different Social Media Channels have proper and improper uses. For example, members of
social networks are expected to read, and when appropriate respond, to questions asked for
them from another member of their social network. It is important for employees and students
to understand what is recommended, expected and required when they discuss or relate topics,
whether at work/school or on their own time. Teachers and other employees may not share
information about their students in such instances.
5. Teachers and other employees may not have contract with students outside of school-approved
email or a school webpage.
6. Employees and students are responsible for making sure that their online activities do not
interfere with their fulfilling their job, study requirements and or their commitments to the
school.
GUIDELINES FOR HANDLING COMPLAINTS

The Academy Charter School (TACS) views its students and parents -- and their
satisfaction -- as our number one priority. We aim to create an environment that invites praise
and commendation for our successes, and constructive criticism for our occasional mistakes.
If you think our school or one of our employees is doing a great job, we would love to hear
from you. On the other hand, in the event that you have a grievance regarding our school or an
employee, we want an opportunity to address your concern.
Generally speaking, there are two distinct types of complaints that you may file with
TACS. The first type of complaint is one that alleges that TACS violated (i) its charter or (ii) a
provision of law relating to the management or operation of the school. An example of this type
of complaint would be an allegation that TACS violated the law regarding student admissions.
The second type of complaint is one that does not allege a violation of law or of TACS charter.
An example of this type of complaint would be an allegation that a school employee spoke
inappropriately to a child.
Please use the following applicable procedure if you would like to submit a complaint to
TACS:
If Your Complaint Alleges That TACS Violated Its Charter or A Provision of Law Relating To
The Management Or Operation of TACS, then:
1. You may submit a written complaint to the Board of Trustees of TACS.
The address of the Board of Trustees is:
Board of Trustees
117 North Franklin Street
The Board of Trustees will make every effort to respond to your complaint in a timely
manner, usually within 60 days. The Board may, in its discretion, investigate your
complaint on its own or the Board may delegate the investigation to a third party. To
help insure a thorough and timely response, your complaint should include: (i) a
detailed statement of the nature of your grievance (including the law or provision of the
charter that you allege has been violated); (ii) if applicable, the names of the
individuals involved, and the time, date and place the relevant incidents(s) occurred;
(iii) copies of any relevant correspondence or documents; (iv) what action or relief you
are seeking; and (v) your name, address and telephone number.
2. The Board of Trustees will provide you with a written response to your complaint,
usually within 60 days, and a copy of the Guidelines of the Charter School Institute for
Handling Complaints (a copy is attached hereto). If you are unsatisfied with the
response of the Board of Trustees of TACS, and your complaint alleges a violation of
law or a provision of the schools charter , you may submit your written
complaint to the Charter Schools Institute on behalf of the State University of New
York Board of
Trustees (The Charter Schools Institute is the New York state governmental entity that
monitors TACS). The address of the Charter Schools Institute is:
Charter Schools Institute
Attn: Grievance Desk Suite 700
41 State Street
Albany, New York 12207
Please note that the Charter Schools Institute does not have the power to review your
complaint if you fail to allege a violation of law or a violation of the schools charter. To
help insure a thorough and timely response from the Charter Schools Institute, your
complaint should include: (i) a detailed statement of the nature of your grievance
(including the law or provision of the charter that you allege has been violated); (ii) what
response, if any, you received from the Board of Trustees of TACS; (iii) copies of any
correspondence between you and the Board of Trustees; (iv) what action or relief you are
seeking; and (v) your name, address and telephone number.
To assist you in writing your grievance, the Charter Schools Institute has created a
grievance form that is available on its website, which you can use when submitting
grievances to it. A copy of the form is attached hereto and is also available at TACS.
The form is not mandatory; it is provided as a convenience to you.
3. The Charter Schools Institute will provide you with a written response. If you are
unsatisfied with the Charter Schools Institutes response to your complaint, you have
the right to appeal to the State Education Department of New York on behalf of the
New York State Board of Regents. The address for the State Education Department is:
Charter Schools Unit
New York State Education Department
Albany, New York 12234
The State Education Department has its own guidelines and procedures for reviewing
complaints. Therefore, you should consult the State Education Department staff in the
Charter Schools Unit before submitting your complaint to them.
If Your Complaint DOES NOT Allege TACS Violated Its Charter or A Provision of Law
Relating To The Management Or Operation of TACS, then:
1. If appropriate, talk to, or write a letter to, your childs teacher.
2. If you are unsatisfied with the response of your childs teacher or if your complaint
does not concern your childs teacher, you may talk to, or write a letter to, the principal
of TACS. The principal may, in his/her discretion, require you to submit your
complaint in writing.
The principal may also, in his/her discretion, conduct an
investigation into your complaint or delegate another school staff member to help
resolve your complaint.
3. If you are unsatisfied with the response of the principal, you may submit a written
complaint to the Board of Trustees of TACS. The address of the Board of Trustees is:
Board of Trustees
117 North Franklin Street
The Board of Trustees will respond to your complaint in writing, usually within 60
days. The Board may, in its discretion, investigate your complaint on its own or the
Board may delegate the investigation to a third party. To help insure a thorough and
timely response, your complaint should include: (i) a detailed statement of the nature of
your grievance, (ii) if applicable, the names of the individuals involved, and the time,
date and place the relevant incidents(s) occurred; (iii) copies of any relevant
correspondence or documents, including any written communications from/to the
teacher and/or principal; (iv) what action or relief you are seeking; and (v) your name,
address and telephone number.
Americans Disability Act (ADA)

It is the policy of The Academy not to discriminate against students or other persons with
disabilities and to operate in compliance with applicable provisions of the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA). Please know that The Academy is sited in an older builder that is
not required to meet ADA building standards for new construction.
The Academy maintains a provisional plan to accommodate limited mobility persons on
the 1st (first) Floor of the school building. Also on the 1st (first) Floor are a handicap
accessible restroom, and a handicap accessible food service area. In addition, The
Academy will take whatever steps are required by the ADA to provide a reasonable
accommodation to students with Disabilities.
Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s):
The Academy Charter School reserves the right to take photographs of any child and/or family in connection with
school events. The Academy Charter School, its assignees and transferees reserves the right to copyright, use and
publish the same in print and/or electronically.
The Academy Charter School may use such photographs of children with or without names and for any lawful
purpose(s), including but not limited to publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content.
If not in agreement, the parent must provide written notice to the Academy Charter School to be placed in the
child's files.
Student and Parent Contract

Preparing any child for a successful future must be based on a partnership among the student, parents and
school faculty. At the Academy Charter School (TACS), we understand that we cannot be truly
successful without the commitment of both parent and student. All parties will make a commitment to the
strategies geared towards the success of our students.
Attendance
I understand that my child will not be permitted to enter the building before 7:00 a.m.
I will ensure that my child will attend school everyday no later than 8:00 a.m.
I will bring my child to school by 7:30 a.m. so that he/she will have breakfast.
I will pick up my child or arrange for pick up in a timely manner when called by the school to tell
me my child is ill.
I will pick up my child from school by 4:00 p.m. daily and no later than 4:15 p.m.
I will keep track of all short Wednesdays and arrange pick up for my child at 2:00 p.m. on those
designated days.
I understand that if my child is absent more than 20 days per year, he/she may have to repeat their
current grade.
I understand that if my child is enrolled in the afterschool program or any extra curricula activities,
I will pick my child up no later than 15 minutes after the program ends or they will be dismissed
from the program.
I understand that if I do not abide by any of the attendance rules stated in this handbook, I will be
called in for a meeting with the Principal. I understand that my child will not be allowed to return
to school until this meeting occurs. Failure to attend this meeting can result in the expulsion of my
child.
Code of Conduct
I will abide by the schools Code of Conduct and Discipline Policy.

For the safety of all children, I will abide by the schools designated drop-off and pick up areas
and will always sign in when entering the school.
I will ensure my student comes to school prepared with all materials and ready to learn daily.
I will dress and behave in a mature manner and use appropriate language when on school grounds.
I will not send my child to school with any sports equipment (i.e. basketball, football, jump rope,
etc.) or electronic devices (i.e. cell phones, ipads, ipods, video games, etc.).
I understand that if I/my child does not abide by the schools Code of Conduct and Discipline
Policy, I will be called in for a meeting with the Principal. I understand that my child will not be
allowed to return to school until this meeting occurs. Failure to attend this meeting can result in
the expulsion of my child.
Communication
I will review all school communications and return and sign any required papers.
I will attend all parent teacher conferences. In the event that I cannot attend, I will schedule an
appointment with my childs teacher for a later date.
I will make an effort to attend parent teacher organization (PTO) meetings and school meetings
(i.e. Title I, Board Meetings, Parent Workshops).
I will keep positive communication going between the teacher/principal and myself.
Homework
I will encourage my child to complete his/her homework.

I will ensure uninterrupted, distraction-free homework time for my child each night with an
understanding that homework comes before television and playtime.
I will make sure that my child makes up missed work, within three days of any absences.
I will read with my child (or have my child read) each night for the allotted time required by their
grade.
I will review my childs homework each night.
I understand that if my childs homework is missing, incomplete, or late on a consistent basis,
their report card grade may be lowered.
I understand that if my child does not complete their homework, they will receive in-school
consequences.
I understand that if my child does not complete his/her homework on a consistent basis, I will be
called in for a meeting with the teacher and possibly the Principal.
Promotion
I understand that my child needs to pass all academic classes in order to be promoted to the next
grade.
I understand that my child may be required to stay afterschool for extra help or tutoring.
Dress Code
I will ensure that my child will follow the schools uniform policy by wearing the schools
uniform daily.
I will ensure that my childs uniform is kept clean and neat daily.
I understand that if my child comes to school out of the proper uniform (clean and neat), he/she will
not be permitted to attend class and will need to wait for the appropriate uniform to be brought
from home. Failure to comply with the policy will require you to pick up your child from school.
I understand that if I am not accessible, my child will be given the necessary dress (i.e. tie, socks,
belt, etc.) at the cost of a rental fee for the day.
I understand that if I do not abide by the dress code stated in this handbook, I will be called in for a
meeting with the Principal. I understand that my child will not be allowed to return to school until
this meeting occurs. Failure to attend this meeting can result in the expulsion of my child.
Student Name:
Grade:
Please return this page to your childs teacher.
I have reviewed The Academy Charter School Parent Contract.
By signing below, I have read and understood the contract and agree to the terms and policies.
If I need any further clarification, I will refer to the handbook before contacting school personnel.
Parent Signature
Date
Student Signature
Date

The Academy Charter School Parent Handbook 2015 2016

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2015-2016

Learn. Lead. Serve.

Mr. Clarence Williams, Jr.

117 North Franklin S ee

Chief Academic Officer

Kindergarten Associate Teachers

1st Grade Teachers

1st Grade Associate Teachers

2nd Grade Teachers

2nd Grade Associate Teachers

3rd Grade Teachers

3rd Grade Associate Teachers

4th Grade Teachers

4th Grade Associate Teachers

5th Grade Teachers

5th Grade Associate Teachers

6th Grade Teachers

7th Grade Associate Teachers

8th Grade Teachers

Social Studies Teachers

Special Education Teachers

Music Associate Teacher

Fine Arts Teacher

Greetings from the School Principal

Greetings Academy Family:

This handbook is designed to provide information that will aid us in fulfilling

2015 - 2016 School Calendar

First day of School

Labor Day School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Rosh Hashanah School Closed

Yom Kippur School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Columbus Day School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Early Dismissal 2PM

Veterans Day School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Parent Teacher Conference

Half Day (12noon)

Early Dismissal 2PM

Early Dismissal 2PM

Holiday Recess School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Early Dismissal 2PM

Early Dismissal 2PM

Parent Teacher Conference Elementary

Winter Recess School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Early Dismissal 2PM

Early Dismissal 2PM

Easter Recess School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Early Dismissal 2PM

Spring Break School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Parent Teacher Conference Elementary

Early Dismissal 2PM

Memorial Day School Closed

Early Dismissal 2PM

Early Dismissal 2PM

Last Day for Students (1/2 Day) 12noon

Full Day for Staff