STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK 2016-2017 · STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK 2016-2017 ... photo release and an...

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STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK 2016-2017

The mission of Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy is to provide a rigorous learning environment where students achieve academically, develop intellectual curiosity, and practice

environmental responsibility while exploring health and science topics and careers.

This handbook is intended to provide information about Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy (KDHSA). It represents a summary of the policies relevant to families and students at KDHSA. Throughout the school year this handbook may be amended as necessary. For additional information or clarification, please contact the school.

KDHSA PreK/K Families: Please note: The information in this handbook reflects school operations for the Kenner location (2504 Maine Avenue). The Pre-K/K Center is located at 415 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA. Specific policies and procedures for the Pre-K/K Center have been sent out via email or posted online and may not be reflected in this handbook (i.e. arrival & dismissal, meal times).

2504 Maine Avenue, Metairie, LA 70003

Pre-K/K Center: 504-267-9467 Kenner Campus: 504-233-4720

Middle School Office: 504-229-3136 http://www.discoveryhsf.org

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Dear Kenner Discovery Parents and Students: Thank you for your pioneer spirit in attending and supporting a new school as we grow into our 4th year. We are proud to offer education choice to our community in the form of a public charter school. We are also proud to offer a complete academic program that is immersed in Science and Health topics. KDHSA students will be aware of health, fitness, good nutrition, science exploration, and research topics.

The spirit of the handbook is to improve home-school connections and to outline expectations, support, and consequences. This student-parent handbook is meant to establish policy, procedures, and routines that we respect and follow as a community. We appreciate your patience, input, and flexibility as we establish and reinforce these routines. As always; we will have some bumps, revisions, edits, and corrections as with our students we establish our KDHSA uniqueness. While we attempted to make it as complete as possible, we will send additions and revisions home in students’ folder and add to the download page of website. http://discoveryhsf.org/kdhsa-team/parents/forms-downloads Please visit this link regularly as it is updated often.

The handbook should be reviewed with your children. We take our policies seriously and want to make sure your children understand them. Established policies help create a community that is respectful and harmonious. After reviewing the handbook with your children, please sign the front page with your child to signal your understanding and agreement to our community policies. The handbook also includes a photo release and an Acceptable Use Policy of Technology. These pages also need to be reviewed and signed.

Again we thank you for your confidence and patience with us and for your excitement and support as KDHSA grows!

Kindly,

Patty Glaser, Ph.D. CEO/Founding Head of School

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Discovery Health Sciences Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization operating a Type 1 charter school, Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy. A copy of the organization’s Charter, By-laws and Articles of Incorporation and other public records are available for review upon request in writing to the school’s main office. The school will respond to all written requests within five (5) business days; there is a fee of $.25 per page for processing. Disclosure may be denied in such cases where the disclosure would violate state or federal law, would violate personal privacy, are proprietary, are law enforcement records, would endanger the life or safety of any person, where the records are computer access codes or are purely internal material. Parents have a right to appeal a denial decision to the charter school board, which must respond in writing within 10 days.

School H.E.A.R.T. Pledge As a student of Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy: “I promise to honor the HEARTbeat of KDHSA, endure through easy & rigorous tasks, work hard to ensure academic achievement, act responsibly toward people & objects, and display tolerance to those who are the same as me & to those who are different from me.” HEART Tenets/Core Values (See Appendix A) H-Honor E-Endurance A-Academic Achievement R-Responsibility T-Tolerance

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Table of Contents

CALENDAR .............................................................................................................................................. 8

SCHOOL HOURS .................................................................................................................................... 9 ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF ................................................................................................................. 10

SUPPORT STAFF .................................................................................................................................. 10 SCHOOL/BUSINESS OFFICES ........................................................................................................... 11

AFTER SCHOOL / BEFORE SCHOOL PROGRAMS ..................................................................... 12 ANIMALS ON CAMPUS....................................................................................................................... 13

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION .................................................................................................................... 13 ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL ............................................................................................................... 13

ATTENDANCE ...................................................................................................................................... 16 Truancy ................................................................................................................................................. 16 Types of Absences ................................................................................................................................ 16 Tardiness ............................................................................................................................................... 17 Exceptions ............................................................................................................................................. 19 KDHSA Make-Up Policy ..................................................................................................................... 20

BOARD OF TRUSTEES ........................................................................................................................ 22 CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES ....................................................................................... 23

COMMUNICATION/ CONCERNS ..................................................................................................... 23 DISCIPLINE ........................................................................................................................................... 24

Conduct on the Bus .............................................................................................................................. 26 Conduct in the Cafeteria (Swamp Owl Café) ....................................................................................... 26 Appeals ................................................................................................................................................. 35 Interventions School-Wide ................................................................................................................... 35 Bullying ................................................................................................................................................ 36

EDUCATION SERVICES ..................................................................................................................... 38 Teacher Office Hours ............................................................................................................................ 38 Academic Intervention .......................................................................................................................... 38 Section 504 ............................................................................................................................................ 38 Evaluation for Suspected Disabilities ................................................................................................... 39

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION .................................................................................... 40

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS ................................................................................................ 40 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ................................................................................................. 41

KDHSA Athletics and Clubs/Extra Curricular Eligibility .................................................................... 41 FACILITY USAGE ................................................................................................................................ 41

FAMILY INVOLVEMENT: THE KDHSA NEST (Parent-Teacher Organization) ....................... 42 Parent Liaison ....................................................................................................................................... 42

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FEES ........................................................................................................................................................ 42 School Supply Fee ................................................................................................................................ 42

FIELD TRIPS ......................................................................................................................................... 43 FOOD SERVICES .................................................................................................................................. 43

Meal Prices ............................................................................................................................................ 43 Meal Payments ...................................................................................................................................... 44 Meal Schedules ..................................................................................................................................... 45

FREE DRESS .......................................................................................................................................... 46

GANG ACTIVITY PROHIBITED ....................................................................................................... 47 GRADING AND PROMOTION ........................................................................................................... 47

Grading and Reporting PreK – 4th Grade .............................................................................................. 47 Grading and Reporting 5th – 12th Grade ................................................................................................ 50

HEALTH GUIDELINES ....................................................................................................................... 52 HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION.............................................................................................. 55

INTERNET USE BY STUDENTS ........................................................................................................ 55 ITEMS NOT ALLOWED IN SCHOOL .............................................................................................. 56

LIBRARY ................................................................................................................................................ 57 LOST-AND-FOUND .............................................................................................................................. 57

NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS ............................................................................................................. 57 PARENTAL BEHAVIOR ...................................................................................................................... 58

PARTIES, TREATS, AND CELEBRATIONS .................................................................................... 58 PLACEMENT INFORMATION .......................................................................................................... 59

PLAYGROUND EXPECTATIONS ..................................................................................................... 59 SAFETY ................................................................................................................................................... 59

SCHOOL IDS .......................................................................................................................................... 60 SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................................................ 60

STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS ..................................................................................................... 60 STUDENT PRIVACY ............................................................................................................................ 60

STUDENT RECORDS ........................................................................................................................... 60 STUDENT TUITION ............................................................................................................................. 62

TECHNOLOGY ..................................................................................................................................... 63 TRANSPORTATION ............................................................................................................................. 64

TUTORING ............................................................................................................................................. 64 UNIFORM GUIDELINES ..................................................................................................................... 64

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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ....................................................................................................... 67 APPENDICES ......................................................................................................................................... 69

APPENDIX A: BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS ............................................................................. 69 APPENDIX B: SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS RIDING SCHOOL BUSES ........... 70 APPENDIX C: DICIPLINE PROCEDURES FOR STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES ............ 73 APPENDIX D: ADDITIONAL BULLYING INFORMATION .................................................... 81 APPENDIX E: INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY ......................................................... 86 APPENDIX F: TRUANCY POLICY ................................................................................................ 90 APPENDIX G: PROMOTIONAL POLICIES FROM JPPSS ....................................................... 93 APPENDIX H: GLOSSARY OF TERMS ........................................................................................ 95

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2016-17 Student-Parent Handbook

Student and Parent/Guardian Acknowledgement The Student-Parent Handbook will help students gain the greatest possible benefit from their educational opportunities at Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy. We encourage parents/guardians and students to review this Student-Parent Handbook together and talk about the importance of being safe, responsible and respectful at school and in everyday life. The Student-Parent handbook is available online at the KDHSA website: www.discoveryhsf.org. When you have read and discussed this information with your child, please sign below and return this sheet to your child’s homeroom teacher. I have received, reviewed and understand the Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Student-Parent Handbook and agree to abide by the policies contained therein.

_________________________ __________________________ _____________ Print Student’s Name Student’s Signature Date

_________________________ __________________________ _____________ Print Parent/Guardian’s Name Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date

By checking the boxes and signing below, I give permission for KDHSA to:

Release and consent to use student information in school publications and school approved media for the school year 2016-2017. • include my child’s picture in the school yearbook. • use my child's photograph, video image, writing, voice recording, grade level, and school name in

officially recognized activities and sports, diplomas and awards, annual yearbooks, school programs, playbills, and school productions.

• use photos, artwork, and academic work (without names) on the school website, school social media accounts (Twitter and Facebook) etc. and/or similar school sponsored publications.

• use photos, video image, and voice recording in school approved news media interviews, releases, and articles.

• release to the media and governmental entities my child's name, grade, school name and honors received for public announcement of recognition of student accomplishments.

I understand, without checking the permission box, my child's name and photograph will not be included in any publications or presentations.

Print Parent/Guardian’s Name Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date

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CALENDAR

KENNER DISCOVERY HEALTH SCIENCES ACADEMY 2016-2017 CALENDAR

JULY 2016 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 AUGUST 2016 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 SEPTEMBER 2016 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 OCTOBER 2016 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 NOVEMBER 2016 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 DECEMBER 2016 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

DATES ACTIVITY/EVENT Aug 6 9th Grade Orientation Aug 8 Science Family Day Aug 10 1st-9th First Day Aug 11-19 K Testing/Visits Aug 22 Pre-K/K First Day

Sep 5 Labor Day Sep 7 Back to School Night

PK-4 & 9 Sep 8 Back to School Night 5-8 Sep 14 Early Dismissal 2:10

Oct 5 Early Dismissal 2:10 Oct 6 End of 1st Quarter Oct 7 Records/Conference Day Oct 10 Fall Break – No School Oct 26 Early Dismissal 2:10

Nov 8 Election Day – No School Nov 18 Faculty PD – No School Nov 21-25 Thanksgiving Break Nov 28 Classes Resume Nov 30 Early Dismissal 2:10

Dec 8 KDHSA Science Fair 6-9 Dec 14 Early Dismissal 2:10 Dec 15 End of 2nd Quarter Dec 16 Records/Conference Day Dec 19-2 Winter Break

Jan 2 Faculty PD– No School Jan 11 Early Dismissal 2:10 Jan 16 MLK Day – No School Jan 25 Early Dismissal 2:10

Feb 15 Early Dismissal 2:10 Feb 27-1 Mardi Gras Holiday

Mar 7 Early Dismissal 2:10 Mar 16 End of 3rd Quarter Mar 17 Records/Conference Day

Apr 10-14 Spring Break Annual State Testing TBA

May 10 Early Dismissal 2:10 May 19 End of 4th Quarter May 25 Last Day for Students May 26 Faculty PD

Happy Summer Swamp Owls! Dates subject to change – Revised 3/2016

JANUARY 2017 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 FEBRUARY 2017 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 MARCH 2017 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 APRIL 2017 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 MAY 2017 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 JUNE 2017 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Early Dismissal Start/Return Dates End of Quarter Holidays Faculty PD/ No Classes

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SCHOOL HOURS

Early Care: 7:00 am – 7:45 am Arrival: Pre-K/K: 8:00 am– 8:20 am (Rivertown Campus) Pre-K4, 1st – 4th 7:45 am – 8:05 am 5th – 9th 7:45 am – 8:15 am Morning Assembly Begins: 8:10 am (Black top area) Grades 1st – 4th 8:20 am (Students report to homeroom) Grades 5th – 9th Classroom Instruction Begins: 8:30 am Pre-K/K 8:20 am 1st – 4th

8:30 am 5th – 9th Classroom Instruction Ends: Pre-K/K: 3:00 pm 1st - 4th: 3:20 pm 5th – 9th : 3:30 pm After Care: 3:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Administrative Office (504) 233-4720

Pre-K/K Campus

(504) 267-9467

Middle School Office (504) 229-2136

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ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Patty Glaser, Ph.D. Sharon Preen, M.Ed. CEO/Head of School Assistant Head of School [email protected] [email protected] Lyn Kelly, M.Ed. Jesse J. Watson, Ph.D., M.P.A. Principal PreK-4th Principal 5th - 8th [email protected] [email protected] Candice Schott, M.Ed. Michael Kennedy, Jr., Ph.D. HS Co-Director of Academics MS Dean / HS Co-Director of Culture [email protected] [email protected]

SUPPORT STAFF Michelle McCrary, M.S., LPC Michelle Duplantier, MSW, LMSW School Counselor/Therapist Parent Liaison/Social Worker [email protected] [email protected] Kristen Centanni, MS, NCC, PLPC Linda Shear, M.Ed. School Counselor/Therapist Special Education Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] Jean Gravois, MCD, CCC-Sp Catherine Martiny, MCD, CCC-Sp Special Education Coordinator Speech Language Pathologist [email protected] [email protected] Lara Hernandez, BLS, PALS, ACLS certified Emily Forrester, MCD Certified School Nurse Speech Language/Early Literacy [email protected] [email protected] Ali O’Dowd, Ph.D. Nikisha Kelly, M.Ed. Division Head PreK/K Lower School Division Head alexandra.o’[email protected] [email protected] Sarah Douglas, M.Ed. Kelly Davidson Middle School Division Head Reading Intervention/Owl Care [email protected] [email protected]

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SCHOOL/BUSINESS OFFICES Rachelle Jacob Debbie Maynard School Office (504) 233-4720 School Office (504) 229-0770 [email protected] [email protected] Geralyn Caldarera Patty Silva Business Office (504) 229-2142 Admissions (504) 229-0770 [email protected] [email protected] Wendy Dennis Crissy Delatte Middle School Office (504) 229-2136 Pre-K/K Office (504) 267-9467 [email protected] [email protected]

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AFTER SCHOOL / BEFORE SCHOOL PROGRAMS KDHSA partners with Community Works of Louisiana. The Community Works before and after school program will offer your student a chance to continue learning following the end of the school day. Students will have the opportunity to experience enrichment classes like visual arts, chess, martial arts, music production, theater, folklore, and much more! A very important focus will also be placed on improving your student’s Math and ELA skills. Our partnership with Community Works will allow us to offer before and after school services at a new reduced expense for our families.

Before Care $40/month After Care $120/month Before/After Drop in $15/day

Students who qualify for free/reduced lunch will have a reduced aftercare rate of $70/month. Schedule: 3:30-4:00pm students eat a snack and receive homework assistance 4:00-5:00pm students cycle in to enrichment classes 5:00-6:00pm students are served dinner and prepare for dismissal FAQ

• This is a 5 day/week program; students are expected to attend all five days, as they are learning a skill in their enrichment class.

• Students are expected to stay until, at the very least, 5pm as this is the end time for classes

• Open to all grades • Please Register online; http://www.communityworksla.org/kenner-discovery-health-

sciences-academy • Your registration is not locked in until your first month, September, is paid. • Limited seats available, please sign up as soon as possible

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please submit registration along with first month’s payment. Community Works asks that any family that may be a drop-in to please fill out a registration form. Accounts must be paid monthly in full by the 5th of each month. Checks and credit cards are the only acceptable methods of payment. All checks should be made to “Community Works”. Failure to pay promptly can lead to dismissal from the program. For any child not picked up by 6:00 pm late fees will be charged. Late fees are as follows: $5/minute for the first 5 minutes; $35 for 6-15 minutes late; $50 for 16-30 minutes late; $60 for 31-45 minutes. After 45 minutes, necessary measures will be taken to ensure your child’s safety. Repeated late pick-up of 3 times will result in dismissal from the program.

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ANIMALS ON CAMPUS Family pets are NOT allowed on campus at any time. Service animals are permitted in accordance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines and with prior notification to the school office. Some classrooms will have pets. All parents will be notified before pets are acquired to ensure there are no allergies.

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION KDHSA does not discriminate against students, parents or guardians on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, family situation, intellectual or athletic ability, or on any other basis.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL Early Arrival: 7:00 – 7:45 am. Students attending Early Owl Care are to enter through the cafeteria door on 25th Street. This entrance will be closed at 7:45 am. Carpool line is the only area designated for student drop-off. Parents are not allowed to stop at the corner of 25th and Maine to drop-off their children. Walkers are defined as students who live in the immediate neighborhood and do not utilize motorized transportation as a means for arrival and dismissal. Arrival LOWER SCHOOL (1st-4th ) (Students with Middle/High School siblings) Students are to enter school from the carpool horseshoe in the parking lot on Maine Ave. Cars stop by a numbered cone. Students exit the vehicles on the passenger side and proceed directly to the blacktop area. 1st -4th grade students report to the blacktop area. 5th-9th grade students proceed to their designated homeroom or office hours. (The blacktop area is behind the parking lot and horseshoe driveway – next to the playing field). MIDDLE/ HIGH SCHOOL (Students without Lower School siblings) Students are to enter school from the 26th Street entrance. Cars stop by a numbered cone. Students exit the vehicles on the back driver’s side and proceed directly into the middle school/high school building. All 5th - 9th grade students proceed to their designated homeroom or office hours. Tardy At 8:20 am, the Maine Ave. carpool gates are locked. Students arriving after 8:20 am (1st – 4th) and 8:30 (5th - 9th) must enter the building through the front doors on Maine Ave. Students must be accompanied by an parent/guardian to obtain a tardy slip before being admitted to Morning Assembly or class. The Maine Avenue door is the only open entrance to the building during school hours.

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Dismissal Parents should call the school office before 2:30 pm to make any changes to student transportation plans. Parents should have their child’s carpool sign clearly displayed hanging from the rear view mirror. Rainy day dismissal will take place from designated locations. Instructions will be given for teachers and students in advance of dismissal. LOWER SCHOOL (1st-4th)- no older siblings Lower School students are dismissed at 3:20 pm. The students are dismissed from the horseshoe parking lot on Maine Avenue. MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL (5th-9th) – no younger siblings Middle & High School students are dismissed at 3:30 pm. The students are dismissed in front of building 600 via the gate on 26th street.

SIBLING CARPOOL

Lower School students with siblings in Middle and High school are dismissed from the horseshoe parking lot on Maine Avenue at 3:30 pm. Carpool ends at 3:45 pm. Any student remaining after 3:45 pm will be escorted to After Owl Care and a drop in fee will be applied. Early Dismissal & Professional Development Days Early dismissal days are scheduled each month for the faculty to conduct/attend professional development sessions. School dismisses at 2:15 p.m. on early dismissal days. There will be after care on early dismissal days for regular attendees. During the year, we devote entire days to professional development and/or records. These days are used for the staff to participate in professional growth activities, meet with grade-level colleagues, and other staff regarding division level or school-wide curriculum issues. Students will not attend school on those days (listed on Page 7 of this handbook and in the school calendar). Extreme/Inclement Weather Dismissal In cases of extreme weather during dismissal, students will be instructed to remain in their homerooms. As cars arrive, students will be called over the PA system. Students will report to the carpool line under the breezeway and will be walked to their vehicle by a faculty member.

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Bus Students

Bus service is limited to residents in Kenner only. Bus riders will report directly to the cafeteria upon dismissal and board the bus as directed by the teacher on duty. For bus stop times and location contact Wells Transportation directly.

Walkers

Walkers are defined as students who live in the immediate neighborhood and do not utilize motorized transportation as a means for arrival and dismissal. Walker verification must be approved by administration. Once verification is obtained, the students’ names will be placed on the official walker’s list. Only students who are listed on the official walker’s list will be dismissed from the walker’s gate. Students will report to the nurse’s hall and will be dismissed from the walker gate after the bus students are loaded. Buses depart at approximately 3:40 pm. A Kenner ordinance prevents parents from parking and picking up your child. If circumstances warrant parking and picking up your child, please send a written notice to the school office expressing why this is needed. Students attending Owl Aftercare report directly to the cafeteria for a healthy snack and social time.

• Walkers will report directly to the cafeteria upon dismissal and will be released after all buses depart and all PreK/K students are dismissed.

• Walk-up pick-up at the gate is not allowed until all buses depart.

• Please do not park in the bus loading area or along 25th Street. This impedes the buses from parking and student dismissal.

• Any student not picked up by 3:45 pm will be sent to Owl Aftercare and charged a drop-in fee.

Bicycle Riders Bicycle riders are defined as students who live in the immediate neighborhood and utilize bicycle transportation as a means for arrival and dismissal. Bicycle rider verification must be approved by administration. Once verification is obtained, the students’ names will be placed on the official bicycle rider’s list. Bicycle riders should enter the school grounds at the Maine Avenue walker’s gate and walk their bike after 7:45 am to the bike rack. A bicycle rack near the flagpole is provided for parking during the school day. Bicycles must be secured to the bike rack with a lock provided by the student. Bicycles are not allowed inside the school building. Bicycles should not be parked anywhere other than bicycle rack located in front of the Building 300. Bicycles left in any other area will be removed and must be reclaimed in the principal’s office by the parent. According to RS 32:199, Louisiana law requires a bicycle operator under the age of 12 years to wear a bicycle helmet when riding a bicycle. Early Pick-up If a child is to be picked up before dismissal, KDHSA requests that parents/guardians send a note to the child’s teacher in advance informing the teacher of the date, time, and reason that the child will be picked up early. This communication can be e-mailed to the teacher and copied to the front office or sent in the child’s home-school connection folder or student agenda. KDHSA

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encourages families to schedule appointments outside of school hours whenever possible, as early removal from the classroom is disruptive to the learning environment for all students. Students checking out early must be picked up before 2:45 pm. Students may not be picked up after 2:45 pm.

• Students who are checked-in prior to 11:00 am will be counted tardy for the day.

• Students who are checked-in or checked-out between to 11:00am and 1:00 pm will be counted absent for a half day.

• Students who are checked out after 1:00pm will be counted early check out (ECO) for the day.

It is encouraged that 5th – 9th grade students attend office hours in advance of any absences.

ATTENDANCE In compliance with the Compulsory School Attendance Law (R.S. 17:221), all students between the ages of seven and eighteen are required to attend a public or private day school unless the child graduates from high school prior to his/her eighteenth birthday. Any child below the age of seven who legally enrolls in school is also subject to the compulsory attendance law. Students must be present a minimum of 167 days per school year to be eligible for promotion. Students who have not met the minimum number of attendance days (167) may be retained at the discretion of the principal. Whether absences are excused or unexcused, students must be present 167 days.

Truancy

Habitually tardy and/or absent students may be reported to the Jefferson Parish Truancy Assessment Center. KDHSA refer students for truancy upon 10 absences and excessive tardiness. See Appendix F for a complete description of the Truancy Policy.

Types of Absences

A. Exempt and Excused: The student is allowed to make up the missed work and the absence is not counted against the attendance requirements. Examples are extended illness documented by a doctor or to celebrate religious holidays. B. Non-Exempt and Excused: The student is allowed to make up the missed work but the absence is counted against the attendance requirement. An example is personal or family illness documented by a parent’s note. C. Unexcused: The student is not allowed to make up the missed work and the absence is counted against the attendance requirement. An example is an absence with no documentation. D. Suspension: The student is allowed to make up the missed work, but the absence is counted against the attendance requirement. *See Jefferson Parish 2016-2017 Procedures & Policies for Students and Families

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*Parents are required to send an email, send a doctor’s note, or write a personal note for up to TWO consecutive days of absence requesting the days to be counted as excused. Doctor’s notes are required for three or more days of absence to be excused and possibly exempted. All notes must be sent to: Crissy Delatte (PreK/K) (504) 267-9467, [email protected] Debbie Maynard (PreK4-4th) (504) 229-0770, [email protected] Wendy Dennis (5th-9th) (504) 229-2136, [email protected]. If your child is absent, please contact the front office preferably by email. If needed please phone as soon as you know your child will be absent. *Writing a note does not guarantee an absence or tardy will automatically be excused. The principal will review the document and determine whether absences are exempt or excused.

Tardiness

School hours begin at 8:10 am (PreK4 – 4th) and 8:20 am (5th – 9th); a child not with their class by the times listed below will be considered tardy.

Pre-K/K (Rivertown campus only) 8:30 am Pre-K4,1st-4th 8:10 am 5th-9th 8:20 am

All students arriving after the above start times must be issued a tardy slip from the front office to be admitted to Morning Assembly and/or class. A parent must accompany their child to check-in. Parents will be contacted to return and sign-in their child if child is not accompanied by an adult on initial arrival. Tardy / Absence Consequence Any student with 10 or more excused or unexcused tardies or absences may be referred to Jefferson Parish Truancy Office (Families in Need of Service - FINS). Saturday Academy Saturday Academy is designed to provide students an opportunity to recover instructional class time missed due to school absences (seat time) and to avoid grade level retention at the end of the year. Saturday Academy is not a consequence; it is an opportunity for students and families to ensure student success by recovering lost instructional time with a certified teacher. The State of Louisiana mandates that students be in school a minimum of 167 days. At KDHSA and in line with JPPSS, we allow students to miss up to 10 days (excused and/or unexcused). Any student who misses more than 10 days may be retained at the discretion of the school administration. Consequently, it is our hope that you and your family will maximize this dynamic opportunity, if necessary, to help your student recover the loss instructional time. Students who do not attend Saturday Academy with more than 10 absences (excused and/or

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unexcused) may be retained or required to successfully complete summer school to advance to be promoted to the next grade level. Saturday Academy takes place on the main campus. It begins at 8am and ends at noon on the scheduled dates. The dates will be announced as scheduled and additional specific information will be provided in the letter. A notice will be sent to the child’s parent or guardian from KDHSA for each tardy or absence. Unexcused tardy and absence consequences for 2016-17 are as follows: ABSENCE/TARDY

PreK/K-2nd Grade 3rd-4th Grade 5th-9th Grade

1st Phone call by school office

Phone call by school office Phone call by school office

2nd Phone call by school office

Phone call by school office Phone call by school office and Written Notice

3rd Phone call by school office and Written Notice

Phone call by school office and Written Notice

Phone call by school office and Referred to Parent Liaison (followed by email) and Parent plan

4th Phone call by school office and Referred to Parent Liaison (followed by email)

Phone call by school office and Referred to Parent Liaison (followed by email)

Phone call by school office and Quiet lunch

5th Phone call by school office and Parent Plan (including observation of reading time and signed notice)--notify principal

Phone call by school office and Parent Plan (including observation of reading time and signed notice)--notify principal

Phone call by school office and Parent class observation (signed notice)--notify principal

6th Phone call by school office and Conference with administrator

Phone call by school office and Conference with administrator (informed of consequences of continued absences/tardies-4th)

Phone call by school office and Conference with administrator (informed of consequences of continued absences/tardies)

7th Phone call by school office and Conference with principal

Phone call by school office and Conference with principal

Phone call by school office and Conference with principal and After-School Academy (parent conference last 15

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minutes)

8th Phone call by school office and Review of Parent Plan and Second notice signature

Phone call by school office and After-School Academy (parent conference last 15 minutes)


9th Phone call by school office and Third notice (signature required)



10th Phone call by school office and Referral to FINS (parent notified)

Phone call by school office and Referral to FINS (parent notified) and Saturday Academy

Phone call by school office and Referral to FINS (parent notified) and Saturday Academy

If a student has a note from a health or legal professional, the tardy or absence may be excused. Notes should be presented upon the student’s return to school. All notes are due within 2 school days of the student's return to school. Notes will not be accepted after 2 days. For example: Your child is absent Thursday and returns Friday. He/she must submit a note Friday or Monday for it to be changed to an excused absence. If the note is received later than the two days, it will be collected and filed, but will not result in an excused absence.

Exceptions

Children are required to attend school in accordance with the Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy 2016-2017 calendar, except for the exempt absences listed below. Absences are “temporarily” unexcused until the school is able to verify a note from the parent/guardian or doctor explaining the absence. The principal or his/her designee* shall contact parent/guardian to ascertain reasons for absences. The following is a detailed listing of potential exempt absences that would not count against the attendance requirement of 167 days present in school (counting excused and unexcused absences). Excused absences can be granted for the following reasons: 1. Personal illness requiring medical attention for an extended period (usually at least 3 days) 2. Death in family (not to exceed 3 days) 3. Natural catastrophe and/or disaster 4. Participation in school-approved activity, which necessitates a student being away from school.

(School personnel will review these activities for educational appropriateness.)

5. Absence for the observance of recognized holidays of the child’s own faith 6. Any of the extenuating circumstances listed below as well as those stated in R.S. 17:226:

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● Extended personal illness of a child whose attendance in school would endanger his/her own health or that of his/her classmates, as verified by a physician, dentist, or nurse practitioner licensed to practice in Louisiana.

● Extended hospital stay as verified by a physician or dentist licensed to practice in Louisiana.

● Extended recuperation from an accident as verified by a physician or dentist licensed to practice in Louisiana.

● Extended contagious disease within the family as verified by a physician or dentist licensed to practice in Louisiana.

● A child whose parent is a member of the United States Armed Forces or the National Guard of a state and such parent has been called to duty for or is on leave from overseas deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting shall be granted excused absences, not to exceed five school days per school year, for the day or days missed from school for the child to visit with his parent prior to the parent's deployment or during the parent's leave and, upon returning to school, shall be permitted to complete all class assignments, including all tests, missed while the child was absent pursuant to the provisions of this item.

● Other extenuating circumstances approved by the school counselor in consultation with the principal or the principal’s designee.

For any other extenuating circumstances, the parent/guardian must make a formal appeal in writing to the principal or his/her designee requesting an absence be excused and/or exempt. When such requests are considered, the following shall apply: ● Parents/guardians should submit a written request to the principal in advance of the

absence, when possible. ● The principal will discuss the matter with other administrators and teachers to determine

the student’s academic status and possible effects the request might have on academic standing.

● The student will assume responsibility for lost school time, work missed, or make-up time.

KDHSA Make-Up Policy

Students are expected to make up work missed while they were absent. Immediately upon returning to school, the teacher for grades Pre-K – 4th will initiate student make-up work. However, for grades 5th – 9th, the student must initiate arrangements for making up work. Teachers are responsible to inform the students of any missed assessments and classwork. Students are responsible for arranging the testing make-up session and completing all missed work within five school days after returning to school. An incomplete will be given for work that has been required by the teacher and has not met guidelines for make-up work. When a student is absent, the parent/guardian may request make-up work by calling the office before 9:00 am. Assignments may be picked up in the front office between 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm.

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Students in grades 5th – 9th who fail to arrange and complete assessments or assignments will receive an F (49) and may be invited to Saturday Academy to complete the work. *Students who are out due to extended illness, with a doctor’s note, will have a specific plan to make up all missed classwork and all assignments in the core subject areas (Math, ELA, Science, Social Studies) created by teacher, Division Head, and Principal. If students are absent on a date an assignment is due, then the material is due the day the student returns to school. Teachers offer opportunities to complete missed assignments during the following times:

• Lunch / Recess • Homework Club • Office Hours (Zero Period, Before or After School) See page 37 • Saturday Academy

Students missing school as a result of any suspension shall be counted as absent, and are considered unexcused and may be given failing grades for work missed. (State Statute Bulletin 741) If a suspension is modified or reversed through the suspension appeal process, related absences will be excused and the students will receive make-up work for those excused days. For any other extenuating circumstances, the parent/guardian shall have the right to appeal the denial of promotion to the principal.

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS (See Appendix A) KDHSA faculty and staff maintain high standards of behavior in the classroom, in the hallways, in the lunchroom and on school premises and throughout all school-sponsored activities by reinforcing and teaching the following:

§ Honor Students are trusted to act honorably in following the expectations and principles that govern our school community which include: arrive to class on time, ready to learn, with the appropriate materials, and dressed in uniform with their student ID. § Endurance Endurance includes the ability to withstand hardship or adversity. Endurance includes continuing an academic task through its completion. Endurance includes abiding by school expectations even when it is difficult. Endurance includes “grit” – perseverance in pursuit of a passion.

§ Academic Achievement Academic achievement is the first priority of all KDHSA students. The students are part of the KDHSA community to learn to be literate citizens, to discover the world of health,

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science, and technology, and to develop their unique talents. The excellence in achievement expectation applies to all aspects of the student learning experience at KDHSA.

§ Responsibility All students must be responsible for themselves and their actions. This includes, but is not limited to: being prepared for class, punctuality, kindness to others, care of school property, uniform appearance, and adherence to school expectations. This also applies to conduct on the bus and at school functions in and beyond school walls. § Tolerance All students will develop and display tolerance. Tolerance is the practice of recognizing and respecting the beliefs and practices of others whether they are the same or different in a fair, objective, and empathetic manner.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy (KDHSA) is a Type 1 charter school authorized by Jefferson Parish Public Schools.

KDHSA Board 2016-17

Diane Hollis, Chairperson

Lynda Nugent-Smith, Vice-Chair & Secretary

Wayne Thomas, Treasurer

Joe Caldarera

Jim Hudson

Vinicio Madrigal, M.D.

Jeanne M. Monte, M.Ed.

Myron Moorehead, M.D.

Natalie Newton

Henry Shane

David Sherman, J.D.

Ronnie Slone

Charles Toney, Jr., J.D.

Patty Glaser, Ph.D., CEO/Head of School

Members of the Board can be contacted via The Chairperson’s e-mail at [email protected]

All Board Meetings, including committee meetings, are open to the public. Board meeting notices are posted on the front door of the school and on the school’s website.

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Monthly board meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at 4:00 pm. Changes are posted on the website. The KDHSA Board is not responsible for the daily operations of the school. Day-to-day management of the school is the responsibility of the Head of School and the Principals. Parents, teachers, staff and community members are invited to attend Board meetings. The agenda provides time for public comment when citizens may address the Board. Requests to address the Board by way of public dialogue may be made by submitting not less than 72 hours prior to the board meeting a request to address the board. The request must be submitted either in writing addressed to the KDHSA Board of Trustees or by e-mail to the KDHSA Board President.

Requests to address the board must be mailed or delivered to:

Discovery Health Sciences Foundation Board 2504 Maine Avenue Metairie, LA 70003

CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES The use of electronic devices by students during the school day including on bus and field trips is not allowed. These devices must be turned off during the school day and remain out-of-sight in a locker or book bag. If a device is seen during the day, it will be assumed the device is being used and will be taken from the student and given to the office/administrator.

1. For the first offense, the student may pick-up the device from the office at the end of the school day.

2. For a second offense, the device will be returned only to the student’s parent/guardian. 3. For the third offense and beyond, the device will be returned only to the parent upon

payment of a $25 fee. As with other personal property brought into school, KDHSA is not responsible for lost, stolen or broken electronic devices. (See page 51 – ITEMS NOT ALLOWED IN SCHOOL)

COMMUNICATION/ CONCERNS KDHSA regards the educational process as a partnership between the students, their families and the KDHSA faculty, staff, and administration. Effective communication is essential for success. When parents/guardians have a question, want more information, or need clarification of a situation concerning classroom matters, academic or social concerns, their child’s classroom/homeroom teacher should be the first point of contact. To see a particular teacher, schedule an appointment in advance, so the teacher can bring any necessary materials and arrange for a time to adequately discuss the matter. The most efficient way to make an appointment with a teacher is to e-mail the teacher directly. Please allow up to 48 hours for a response. A list of all faculty and support staff contact information, including e-mail addresses, can be found on the KDHSA website (www.discoveryhsf.org). A parent/guardian may request an advocate be present at the meeting to facilitate communication. KDHSA has a no texting policy between teachers and parents.

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After the meeting, if concerns remain or the situation persists, an appointment should be made with the teacher and the Curriculum Division Head or School Counselor. If this meeting does not resolve the matter, an appointment with all parties and the Principal may be requested and scheduled.

DISCIPLINE Students are encouraged to make appropriate choices regarding their personal conduct. H.E.A.R.T.: Honor, Endurance, Academic Achievement, Responsibility, and Tolerance are the core values that will help guide student decisions and develop intrinsic discipline. Parents also play an important role in ensuring appropriate conduct occurs at school. Appropriate school behavior is taught at home so it can be practiced at school. The following is an outline of how the faculty and staff will establish routines and support the development of good conduct at school. KDHSA believes the more involved the parents are with their child’s education; the better the chances are of developing good decision-making and intrinsic discipline. Positive Behavioral Intervention System (PBIS) & Response to Intervention (RTI) KDHSA has adopted the Positive Behavior Intervention Support Program (PBIS). This is a nation-wide program, endorsed by the Louisiana Department of Education. PBIS is a school-wide program designed to discourage negative behaviors by rewarding appropriate behaviors. Families are a very important link to the success of this process. PBIS will succeed when it has broad visibility in the school setting. PBIS provides consistent and systemic support for students within the school setting; its concepts can also be applied at home. PBIS uses ongoing evaluations, data collection, and plan reassessment, as needed to ensure consistent implementation of the program. Students will be taught a small set of basic school-wide core values and will be rewarded for complying with those expectations. Student infractions will also be related to these core values so students can internalize how the values translate into daily behavior. Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy’s school-wide core values are:

H – Honor E – Endurance A – Academic Achievement R – Responsibility T – Tolerance

Rewards will be nontangible whenever possible; however, they could include KDHSA points or tickets that can be used for prize drawings or can be redeemed for snacks and supplies, popcorn parties, free dress day, and/or admission to school events. This will take place monthly and will include all students that comply with the KDHSA core values.

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Positive Behavior Recognition The PreK-8th teaching teams will have an age-appropriate award/incentive program for students who have reached the behavior and academic goals set by the students and their teachers.

Merits: PreK-3rd Students’ color will be moved up one color for any display of the H.E.A.R.T. tenets. (See Appendix A) Teachers will actively look for students exhibiting these positive behaviors. 4th-9th Students will receive bucks or tickets for any display of the H.E.A.R.T. tenets. (see Appendix A) Teachers will actively look for students exhibiting these positive behaviors. Weekly Rewards “Owl of the Week” Each teacher will choose an “Owl of the Week”. That student is one who consistently displays the H.E.A.R.T. tenets. The “Owl of the Week” will be recognized at Morning Assembly, in the Swamp Owl Café, and in their classrooms. “Who Dat in the Cage” Teachers should issue tickets to any student exemplifying the HEART tenets of KDHSA. We want to catch the students displaying Honor, Endurance, Academic Achievement, Responsibility, and Tolerance. Students will drop their tickets into the “Who Dat in the Cage” in the school foyer. On Fridays, the principal will draw several tickets from the cage. These students will win a stuffed animal or another reward. KDHSA School Store/Cart Students may use earned tickets or bucks to “purchase” items in the KDHSA school store.

Appropriate and Inappropriate Student Behavior Students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and to respect the rights and property of others. All expectations involving appropriate and inappropriate behavior apply equally to the classroom, hallways, school campus, school buses, bus stops, and at all school functions in and beyond school walls. This applies to events occurring at school or school sanctioned events off campus. Students who are not enrolled in after-school activities are required to leave the school grounds immediately following dismissal unless attending a school event.

Classroom Management Systems The individual teacher will manage his/her classroom. Classroom management systems will be explained to parents at Back to School Night and also explained to students at the beginning of the school year and to new students when they enroll.

• School-Wide Behavior Plan Grades Pre-K-9th will generally use a color or point system to monitor student behavior. Color System: The following color system rankings are listed from highest to lowest: blue, green, yellow, and red. The behavior system is fluid, allowing the students the opportunity to move up and down. Students arrive at school on green. Through exceptional behaviors they move up to blue. If inappropriate behavior occurs, students will receive a warning before the color is changed. If the behavior continues, the student’s color is changed to yellow. Students

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will be given the opportunity to re-direct their own behavior before moving to a lower color. Students on yellow that demonstrate appropriate behavior can have their color changed back to green. Color changes are at the discretion of the teacher. Points System: The point system is similar to the color system in that students can gain or lose points based on meeting or not meeting behavioral expectations.

Conduct Expectations

• Conduct on the Bus

Students are to comply with the directives of the bus driver and bus monitors for their safety. They are to avoid any behavior that might be a distraction to the bus driver or injurious to others. The expectations apply to daily transportation, field trips, and all extracurricular and non-curricular trips. Students receiving a referral from a bus driver will receive appropriate consequences for their action. Continual infractions on the bus may result in the student's removal from the bus.

• Conduct in the Cafeteria (Swamp Owl Café)

All students at KDHSA are required to eat their lunch in Swamp Owl Café. Teachers will supervise students during lunch. Our goal is to make the Swamp Owl Café a pleasant, comforting place to eat with quiet conversations. In turn, we expect students to respect their space as well as clean their table and surrounding area before leaving the café. • Conduct in the Classroom and Hallways Students are to comply with classroom expectations as determined by the teacher's classroom management plan to ensure the classroom operates in an orderly manner. These expectations will be posted and taught to the students by teachers throughout the school year. Students are expected to move promptly between classes and should travel on the right side of the hall. Running, horseplay, and loud talking are not permitted. Students are required to have a hall or restroom pass in order to be outside the classroom. Any student without a pass will be considered as being in an unauthorized area.

• Conduct on Field Trips If a child has previous behavior issues in the classroom, parents may be requested to accompany their child at the request of the teacher. Students receiving a class 2 referral or higher within a month of a field trip may not be allowed to attend that field trip.

Consequences While every behavior cannot be identified and listed, the following behaviors and consequences are outlined. Parents should understand that if a certain behavior is not listed, the behavior could still receive behavioral consequences at the discretion of the teacher and/or administration. The administration makes the final determination of consequences.

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The administrative team will utilize both restorative justice and conflict resolution as part of the consequences to deal with behavior referrals. Both methods help resolve poor student choices in a manner that also brings some form of justice to the larger school community. Both methods help students learn better choices for the future.

• Quiet Lunch (QL) In an effort to eliminate the loss of valuable instructional time a teacher or administrator may issue a quiet lunch. Typically, a quiet lunch is issued for minor infractions. If deemed necessary by the administration team, a student may be required to serve a quiet lunch for more than one day. • Recess Detention (RD) In an effort to eliminate the loss of valuable instructional time a teacher or administrator may issue a recess detention. Typically, a recess detention is issued for minor infractions. If deemed necessary by the administration team, a student may be required to serve recess detentions for more than one day.

• Morning Detention (MD) Morning Detention (MD) is the consequence for Class 2 infractions. Students will have two opportunities per week to serve a MD. Detentions will be offered from 7:30 am - 8:20 am. Parents will be notified when the student receives an infraction that merits an MD. Students are to report directly to the detention room and follow the expectations of the detention monitor. No student will be allowed in detention after 7:35 am. After 7:35 am, the student will be considered tardy which may result in additional detention time. Parents will be responsible for bringing their child at 7:30 am. Students who fail to report to MD will receive one day of In-School Intervention (ISI) the following day.

• After-School Detention (ASD) After-School Detention (ASD) is the consequence for Class 2 infractions. Students will have two days to serve an ASD. Detentions will be served either on the same day issued or no later than the following day from 3:35 pm - 4:30 pm. Parents will be notified when the student receives an infraction that merits an ASD. Students are to report directly to the detention room and will follow the expectations of the detention supervisor. No student will be allowed in detention after 3:35 pm. After 3:35 pm, the student will be considered tardy which may result in additional ASD time. Parents will be responsible for picking up their child at 4:30 pm. Students who fail to report to ASD will receive one day of In-School Intervention (ISI) the following day.

• In-School Intervention (ISI) In-School Intervention is designed to allow students the opportunity to reflect on their behavior and participate in a process to effect change in their behavior. Students are supervised during this time. Students are required to complete their scheduled academic assignments, and the assigned school personnel will supervise their work. Each teacher will set aside work for ISI, so the student’s time in ISI will be productive. The school counselor will meet with any student scheduled to attend ISI.

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• Out of School Suspension (OSS) A student may be suspended in accordance with the discipline policy of KDHSA. Any student who is suspended from school cannot participate in any school activities or be present on school grounds during their time of suspension. *After any OSS, a parent meeting with the principal must occur before the student re-enters school. This meeting will take place the morning the student is scheduled to return to school. Failure to appear will result in the student remaining in ISI until the parent attends the conference.

• Expulsion from School KDHSA administration and support staff will work closely with parents to prevent a student from being expelled. A Class 4 offense is very serious. An accumulation of suspensions is likewise a serious matter. On the fourth suspension for any reason, a recommendation for expulsion can be made. The sanctions of expulsion and suspension are driven by state law (R.S. 17:416). A student may be assigned to an alternative school setting when they are expelled.

• Discipline Procedures-Due Process Every student at KDHSA has the right to full due-process procedures as related to suspensions and expulsions. The following is a brief description of the discipline procedures for students receiving referrals: The teacher reports an infraction using OnCourse, which includes the name of student, time, location, other students involved and the nature of the offense relating to that referral. The referral is sent to an administrator who then reviews the information given for accuracy and clarity. An administrator may then interview the student(s) involved to ascertain the facts and circumstances regarding the incident. Depending on the incident, the student(s) will return to class, or assigned to ISI, or another appropriate consequence.

Consequences vary and are decided at the discretion of the teachers, principal and administrative team. Students are informed of outcomes on the day the final decision for consequences has been reached. Expectations for appropriate behaviors are reviewed and reinforced to all students receiving referrals. Parents are responsible for checking OnCourse for discipline referrals. The teacher or administrator will contact the parents for more serious offences.

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Pre-K/K • Class Level Infractions and Consequences (Pre-K/K)

Class 1 Infractions 1. Disrespect towards a student 2. Disrupting class 3. Excessive talking out in class 4. Inappropriate body language (rolling of eyes to a teacher, etc.) 5. Uniform violation 6. Name calling 7. Running in the school 8. School procedures not followed 9. Spitting 10. Throwing objects

Consequences for Class 1 Infractions (Pre-K/K) 1. 1st Event = Redirect student to appropriate behavior 2. 2nd Event = Warning 3. Repeated Class 1 Events = Color Change

Class 2 Infractions (Pre-K/K) 1. Repeated class 1 infractions 2. Aggressive verbal behavior 3. School procedures not followed 4. Failure to comply 5. Encouraging others to violate school expectations 6. Being in an unauthorized area without permission 7. Inappropriate behavior in assemblies or field trips 8. Inappropriate physical contact 9. Throwing objects with intent to harm 10. Use of profanity and/or inappropriate public behavior (including obscene gestures or

words)

Consequences for Class 2 Infractions (Pre-K/K) 1. 1st Event = Warning and Redirect student to appropriate behavior 2. 2nd Event = Color Change 3. Repeated Class 2 Events = Color Change / “Think About It” (TAI) and /or change of

classroom

Class 3 Infractions (Pre-K/K) 1. Repeated Class 2 infractions 2. Damage or destruction of property 3. Disrespect for authority (throwing a tantrum, arguing, yelling, inappropriate tone,

etc.) 4. Engaging in any conduct that disrupts the school environment or educational process

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5. Failure/refusing to serve a consequence 6. Instigates or participates in a fight 7. Stealing (to include possession of missing items) 8. Verbal threat towards anyone 9. Violation of fire regulation or failure to comply with any fire, tornado or safety drills

and instructions Consequences for Class 3 Infractions (Pre-K/K)

1. 1st Event = “Think About It” / Loss of privilege 2. 2nd Event = Quiet Lunch (QL) 3. Repeated Class 3 Events = Partial loss of recess Class 4 Infractions (Pre-K/K) 1. Bring/possess a weapon of any type or anything that resembles a weapon to/at school 2. Causing bodily injury to anyone 3. Possession or use of any narcotic, stimulant drug or alcoholic beverage 4. Possession or use of tobacco, lighters, matches, etc. 5. Pulling a fire alarm or making false 911 call 6. Threatening the safety of a teacher, staff member, or adult

Consequences for Class 4 Infractions (Pre-K/K) 1. Discretion of the Principal Class Level Infractions and Consequences (1st – 2nd) Class 1 Infractions

1. Chewing gum 2. Disrespect towards a student 3. Disrupting class 4. Eating in the hallway/classroom (without teacher’s authorization) 5. Excessive talking out in class 6. Inappropriate body language (rolling of eyes to a teacher, etc.) 7. Uniform violation 8. Name calling 9. Passing notes 10. Running in the school 11. School procedures not followed 12. Spitting 13. Throwing objects Consequences for Class 1 Infractions (1st – 2nd) 1. 1st Event = Warning 2. 2nd Event = Color Change 3. Repeated Class 1 Events = “Think About It” Class 2 Infractions (1st – 2nd)

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1. Aggressive verbal behavior 2. School procedures not followed 3. Failure to comply 4. Encouraging others to violate school expectations 5. Being in an unauthorized area without permission 6. Bodily contact (not to exclude kissing) 7. Inappropriate behavior in assemblies or field trips 8. Inappropriate physical contact 9. Throwing objects with intent to harm 10. Use of profanity and/or inappropriate public behavior (including obscene gestures or

words) Consequences for Class 2 Infractions (1st – 2nd)

1. 1st Event = Color Changes to Red / “Think About It” 2. 2nd Event = Quiet Lunch, Loss of Recess, and “Think About It” 3. Repeated Class 2 Events = MD or ASD, “Think About It”, Referral to Counselor and

parent conference Class 3 Infractions (1st – 2nd) 1. Bullying 2. Cheating/plagiarism 3. Damage or destruction of property 4. Disrespect for authority (throwing a tantrum, arguing, yelling, under breath

comments, inappropriate tone, sarcasms toward a teacher, etc.) 5. Engaging in any conduct that disrupts the school environment or educational process 6. Extortion, harassment of a sexual or non-sexual nature, or intimidation of a student,

school employee, or other individual attending a school activity 7. Failure/refusing to serve a consequence 8. Instigates or participates in a fight 9. Forgery (to include but not limited to forging parent signatures or conduct logs) 10. Stealing (to include possession of missing items) 11. Verbal threat towards anyone 12. Violation of fire regulation or failure to comply with any fire, tornado or safety drills

and instructions Consequences for Class 3 Infractions (1st - 2nd)

1. 1st Event = Parent Conference and Notify the MS Dean of Students or LS Division Head – consequence determined by administrative team

2. Repeated Class 3 Events = ISI or OSS/referral to School Counselor and parent conferences

Class 4 Infractions (1st – 2nd Grade) 1. Bring/possess a weapon of any type or anything that resembles a weapon to/at school 2. Causing bodily injury to anyone 3. Possession or use of any narcotic, stimulant drug or alcoholic beverage 4. Possession or use of tobacco, lighters, matches, etc. 5. Pulling fire alarm or making a false 911 call

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6. Threatening the safety of a teacher, staff member, or adult

Consequences for Class 4 Infractions (1st – 2nd Grade) 1. Discretion of the Principal ____________________________________________________________ Class Level Infractions and Consequences (3rd - 4th) Class 1 Infractions

1. Chewing gum 2. Disrespect toward a student 3. Disrupting class 4. Eating in the hallway/classroom (without teacher’s authorization) 5. Excessive talking out in class 6. Inappropriate body language (rolling of eyes to a teacher, etc.) 7. Uniform violation 8. Name calling 9. Passing notes 10. Running in the school 11. School procedures not followed 12. Spitting 13. Throwing objects

Consequences for Class 1 Infractions (3rd - 4th) 1. 1st Event = “Think About It” 2. 2nd Event = “Think About It”, and Quiet Lunch (QL) 3. Repeated Class 1 Events = Morning or After-School Detention, “Think About It”,

Referral to School Counselor Class 2 Infractions (3rd - 4th)

1. Aggressive verbal behavior 2. School procedures not followed 3. Failure to comply 4. Aiding and abetting or encouraging others to violate school expectations 5. Being in an unauthorized area without permission 6. Bodily contact (not to exclude kissing) 7. Inappropriate behavior in assemblies or field trips 8. Inappropriate physical contact 9. Throwing objects with intent to harm 10. Use of profanity and/or inappropriate public behavior (including obscene

gestures/words) 11. Disrespect for authority Consequences for Class 2 Infractions (3rd - 4th)

1. 1st Event = Point Deduction, Quiet Lunch or Recess Detention and “Think About It” 2. 2nd Event = Morning or After-School Detention and “Think About It”

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3. Repeated Class 2 Events = In-School Intervention (ISI) and Referral to School Counselor and Referral to Response to Intervention (RTI)

Class 3 Infractions (3rd – 4th) 1. Bullying 2. Cheating/plagiarism 3. Damage or destruction of property 4. Disrespect for authority (throwing a tantrum, arguing, yelling, under breath comments

inappropriate tone, sarcasms toward a teacher, etc.) 5. Engaging in any conduct that disrupts the school environment or educational process 6. Extortion, harassment of a sexual or non-sexual nature, or intimidation of a student,

school employee, or other individual attending a school activity. 7. Failure/refusing to serve a consequence 8. Instigates or participates in a fight 9. Forgery (to include but not limited to forging parent signatures or conduct logs) 10. Stealing (to include possession of missing items) 11. Verbal threat towards anyone 12. Violation of fire regulation or failure to comply with any fire, tornado or safety drills

and instructions Consequences for Class 3 Infractions (3rd – 4th)

1. 1st Event = In-School Intervention, “Think About It”, Referral to Response to Intervention (RTI)

2. Repeated Class 3 Events = OSS, referral to School Counselor and parent conference Class 4 Infractions 1. Bring/possess a weapon of any type or anything that resembles a weapon to/at school 2. Causing bodily injury to anyone 3. Possession or use of any narcotic, stimulant drug or alcoholic beverage 4. Possession or use of tobacco, lighters, matches, etc. 5. Pulling fire alarm or making a false 911 call 6. Threatening the safety of a teacher, staff member, or adult

Consequences for Class 4 Infractions (3rd – 4th) Recommendation for Expulsion Class Level Infractions and Consequences (5th – 9th) Class 1 Infractions 1. Chewing gum 2. Disrespect toward a student 3. Disrupting class 4. Eating in the hallway/classroom (without teacher’s authorization) 5. Excessive talking out in class 6. Inappropriate body language (rolling of eyes to a teacher, etc.) 7. Uniform violation (student ID’s are part of the uniform)

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8. Name calling 9. Passing notes 10. Running in the school 11. School procedures not followed 12. Spitting 13. Throwing objects Consequences for Class 1 Infractions (5th – 9th)

1. 1st Event = Point deduction and “Think About It” 2. 2nd Event = Point deduction, “Think About It”, and Quiet Lunch (QL) 3. Repeated Class 1 Events = Morning or After-School Detention, “Think About It”, Referral to School Counselor Class 2 Infractions (5th – 9th) 1. Aggressive verbal behavior 2. School procedures not followed 3. Failure to comply 4. Encouraging others to violate school expectations 5. Being in an unauthorized area without permission 6. Bodily contact (not to exclude kissing) 7. Inappropriate behavior in assemblies or field trips 8. Inappropriate physical contact 9. Throwing objects with intent to harm 10. Use of profanity and/or inappropriate public behavior (including obscene

gestures/words) 11. Disrespect for authority Consequences for Class 2 Infractions (5th – 9th) 1. 1st Event = Morning or After-School Detention and “Think About It” 2. Repeated Class 2 Events = In-School Intervention (ISI) and Referral to School Counselor and Referral to Response to Intervention (RTI) Class 3 Infractions (5th – 9th)

1. Bullying 2. Cheating/plagiarism 3. Damage or destruction of property 4. Continued disrespect for authority (throwing a tantrum, arguing, yelling, under breath

comments inappropriate tone, sarcasms toward a teacher, etc.) 5. Engaging in any conduct that disrupts the school environment or educational process 6. Extortion, harassment of a sexual or non-sexual nature, or intimidation of a student,

school employee, or other individual attending a school activity. 7. Failure/refusing to serve a consequence 8. Instigates or participates in a fight 9. Forgery (to include but not limited to forging parent signatures or conduct logs) 10. Stealing (to include possession of missing items) 11. Verbal threat towards anyone

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12. Violation of fire regulation or failure to comply with any fire, tornado or safety drills and instructions

13. Unauthorized use of technology Consequences for Class 3 Infractions (5th – 9th)

1. 1st Event = In-School Intervention (ISI) or Out of School Suspension (OSS), “Think About It”, and Referral to Response to Intervention (RTI)

2. Repeated Class 3 Events = Out of School Suspension (OSS), referral to School Counselor and parent conference

Class 4 Infractions (5th – 9th)

1. Bring/possess a weapon of any type or anything that resembles a weapon to/at school 2. Causing bodily injury to anyone 3. Possession or use of any narcotic, stimulant drug or alcoholic beverage 4. Possession or use of tobacco, lighters, matches, etc. 5. Pulling fire alarm or making false 911 call 6. Threatening the safety of a teacher, staff member, or adult Consequences for Class 4 Infractions (5th – 9th) Recommendation for Expulsion The last six Class 4 Infractions bullets are actions/behaviors that can result in a recommendation for expulsion. As mandated by State Law, Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy must expel a student in grades six and up and over the age of eleven with a weapon i.e. a gun or a knife with a blade that measures two inches in length or greater. Additionally, any student in grades six and up found guilty of possession of any illegal narcotic, drug, or other controlled substance on school property, on a school bus, or at a school event shall be expelled from school according to the requirements of R.S. 17:416(C) (2).

Appeals

Any sanction involving suspension or expulsion that is imposed can be appealed to the CEO/Head of School. This appeal must be in writing and must be submitted prior to the beginning of the sanction period. In the interim time of the appeal, the student may attend school but will be placed in ISI until the outcome has been determined. The CEO/Head of School serves as the hearing officer of last resort. The CEO/Head of School’s decision is final.

Interventions School-Wide

Check-In/Check-Out Check-In/Check-Out is a Tier II positive behavior intervention plan designed to work with students who have continuing behavior issues. A school staff member will be selected to mentor a student in the plan. That staff member will meet with that student on a regular basis before school and after school. Before school the two will review the behaviors expected during the day. The staff member will log behavior expectations on a form that will be used at the end of

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the day. The student will carry the log with him/her to class. Teachers will provide feedback on the form for the afternoon’s check out. The staff mentor will review the student’s log to determine if appropriate behavioral expectations have been met. For students in Check-In/Check-Out Intervention, check-in time is between 7:45 am and 8:30 am, and check-out time is 3:10 pm - 3:30 pm. Students will be monitored daily for 6 weeks. At that time the mentor, teachers and the principal will meet to determine if continued participation is warranted. Using the logs, the mentor and the teacher will analyze the information, and make a judgment regarding continued participation. Other Tier II interventions include but are not limited to: change in setting, behavior contracts, group counseling, and any other that is deemed appropriate when addressing specific behavior. All referrals are subject to a change of classification either to increase or reduce the severity of consequences as deemed necessary by a member of the administrative team, which has the final authority. All steps taken will be documented.

Special Needs Students and the Discipline Process All consequences for students with special needs will be taken into consideration on a case-by-case basis according to their Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Students with special needs fall under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and its provisions as they pertain to disciplinary actions. (See Appendix C for specific guidelines in regards to discipline and special needs students.)

Bullying

Students, parents, teachers, principals and school leaders will all work together to prevent and end bullying. According to the Louisiana Department of Education, bullying is a pattern of:

• written, electronic or verbal communications that threaten harm, • obscene gestures, taunting or malicious teasing, • persistent shunning or excluding a student, or • physical harm, such as hitting, pushing or damaging personal property.

https://www.louisianabelieves.com/schools/public-schools/bullying

KDHSA is committed to taking a proactive stance to preventing bullying behavior whether it is face-to-face or in cyberspace. Awareness of bullying and how to prevent it will be addressed through our H.E.A.R.T. core values and the PBIS program. Community experts such as the FBI and local police department will help educate parents and students on the dangers of cyber-communications, cyber-bullying and cyber harassment. The school will address bullying behaviors through conflict resolution and restorative justice programs as well as through appropriate discipline consequences.

Bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn and the school’s ability to educate its students in a safe environment.

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Examples of bullying may include but are not limited to a pattern of behavior involving one or more of the following: • Sarcastic “remarks/compliments” about another student’s personal appearance • Pointed questions intended to embarrass or humiliate • Mocking, taunting, or belittling • Non-verbal threats and/or intimidation towards another • Demeaning humor relating to a student’s race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or personal characteristics/mannerisms • Blackmail, extortion, demands for protection money or other involuntary donations or loans • Blocking access to school property or facilities • Deliberate physical contact or injury to person or property • Stealing or hiding school belongings • Threats of harm to student(s), possessions or others • Cyber-bullying • Sexual harassment

Examples of Disciplinary Consequences: • Loss of Privilege • Reassignment of Seat • Reassignment of Classes • Quiet Lunch • Recess Detention • Morning or After-School Detention • In-School Intervention • Out-of-School Suspension • Recommendation for an Expulsion Hearing • Assignment to an Alternative Setting • Legal Action Complaints of Bullying, Investigation of Complaints, and Corrective Action Procedures: The following actions will be taken when bullying is reported: 1. Investigation Upon receipt of any report of bullying, an administrator will direct an immediate investigation of the incident. The investigation will begin no later than the next school day after the school official receives the report. The investigation will be completed no later than ten school days after the date the written report of the incident is submitted to the school official. The investigation shall include interviewing the alleged perpetrator(s) and victim(s), identified witnesses, teacher(s), and staff members separately. Physical evidence of the bullying incident will be reviewed, if available.

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2. Notification Parents or legal guardians of the victim and accused student will be notified of the investigative procedure. If the incident involves an injury or similar situation, appropriate medical attention will be provided and the parent/guardian will be notified immediately. 3. Discipline Upon confirming that bullying has occurred, the accused student will receive age-appropriate consequences for bullying which includes, at minimum, disciplinary action and/or counseling. 4. Follow Up Complainants will be promptly notified of the findings of the investigation and the remedial action taken. Separate parent conferences with administrators and parties involved at the school’s discretion. 5. Documentation Written documentation containing the findings of the investigation, including input from the students’ parents or legal guardian, and the decision by the school official, will be documented and placed in each student’s (victim and perpetrator) discipline file.

EDUCATION SERVICES

Teacher Office Hours

All classroom teachers in grades 5th– 9th will provide weekly office hours for academic support. * Please check with the classroom teacher for specific days and times.

Academic Intervention

KDHSA provides Reading and Math intervention from K-8th grade for those students who are below benchmark in Reading and Math. Students identified receive individual or small group intervention at least twice a week. Students will be screened in grades K-8th to determine if interventions are warranted.

Section 504

Section 504 is a part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibiting discrimination based upon disability. Section 504 is an anti-discrimination, civil rights statute that requires the needs of students with disabilities to be met as adequately as the needs of the non-disabled peers. An individual with disabilities is the same as "a person with disabilities" defined in 34 CFR 104.3(j). This definition is as follows: (j)"Person with disabilities." (1) "Persons with a

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disability" means any person who (i) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of such an impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having such an impairment. Students who meet the qualifications for a Section 504 plan are eligible for accommodations and/or modifications.

Evaluation for Suspected Disabilities

Students who are suspected of having a disability that significantly affects their school performance should be screened in the areas of the suspected disability.

In accordance with state guidelines, KDHSA closely follows the Response to Intervention (RTI) model to determine the appropriate services needed for any student who may be struggling academically and/or behaviorally.

Referrals to the RTI Team may come from any of its members.

The RTI team consists of:

• RTI Coordinator • Teacher • Special Education Coordinator • Principal • Parent

Other team members are involved “as needed”: Counselor, School Nurse and Speech-Language Pathologist.

The RTI Team meets on a regular basis to discuss student concerns.

The Response to Intervention Model

The Response to Intervention Model, or RTI, is structured intervention conducted in order to address academic and/or behavioral concerns. This model provides interventions based on scientific research in an effort to remediate academic/behavioral weaknesses in order to ensure success within the general education curriculum. There are 3 levels of RTI:

Tier I - core instruction within the regular education classroom

Tier II – small group intervention conducted within or beyond the regular classroom

Tier III- small group, intensive intervention within or beyond the regular classroom targeting specific growth areas

Once the interventions are completed and data is collected, a team decision is made to determine the next course of action.

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1. The student will be referred for an evaluation to determine if accommodations are necessary under Section 504.

2. The student will be referred for an evaluation to determine if a special education evaluation and placement are necessary.

3. The student is making adequate progress in the intervention model and will remain in interventions.

4. The student will be cycled out of interventions. 5. No further action is needed.

KDHSA adheres to state compliance guidelines for Section 504 qualifications. Section 504 is a part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibiting discrimination based upon disability. Section 504 is an anti-discrimination, civil rights statute that requires the needs of students with disabilities to be met as adequately as the needs of the non-disabled peers. An individual with disabilities is the same as "a person with disabilities" defined in 34 CFR 104.3(j). This definition is as follows: (j)"Person with disabilities." (1) "Persons with a disability" means any person who (i) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of such an impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having such an impairment. Students who meet the qualifications for a Section 504 plan are eligible for accommodations and/or modifications.

KDHSA adheres to state compliance guidelines for Special Education services as delineated in Louisiana Bulletin 1508 -Pupil Appraisal Handbook. This handbook is the regulatory guide for pupil appraisal personnel when conducting individual evaluations of students suspected of being exceptional and in need of special education and related services, and as a reference for persons requiring specific information regarding the determination of eligibility for special education services. The reference to an exceptionality includes any disability term as well as gifted and talented.

The Criteria for Eligibility describes the minimal data that must be obtained in order to determine whether the student has an exceptionality and is in need of special education services. The Procedures for Evaluation specify minimal areas of data collection, and at times suggest the professional who is usually most qualified to gather and interpret the data.

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION The school maintains an emergency contact file for students at KDHSA. Emergency situations involving the welfare of a student may arise when a parent is not available. The telephone number of a friend, a neighbor, or a family member who will be able to take over care and responsibility for the child should be noted in the emergency information. The school data office should be notified immediately of any changes to emergency contact information. Parents may obtain an Update Contact Information form from the school office or school website.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS The Head of School may close school because of inclement weather, contagious disease or other emergencies. KDHSA utilizes a broadcast telephone message service and email to notify parents

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of school-related emergencies or special announcements. School closings will also be posted on the school’s website and Facebook page. School closings will also be announced on WWL 870 AM Radio and on WWL Channel 4 television.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

KDHSA Athletics and Clubs/Extra Curricular Eligibility Academics

• All participants must maintain a 2.0 GPA at the end of each quarter. • Any students receiving a letter grade below a C in any class will be asked to attend office

hours. • To remain eligible for participation, any student not meeting academic requirements will

be placed on an individualized student support plan. Behavior

• All participants must meet the behavior guidelines set forth in the Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Student Handbook.

• To remain eligible for participation, any student not meeting behavioral requirements will be placed on an individualized student support plan.

Attendance

• A student must be present at school a minimum of four (4) hours on the day of the game/event.

• A student must be present at school on Friday in order to participate in a weekend game/event.

Special Circumstances

• Eligibility decisions on students receiving services through the KDHSA Learning Centers (LRC) with a current Louisiana Individual Education Plan (IEP) will be on a case to case basis. The discussion must include a review of the student’s IEP and the team must include the student’s LRC teacher

****Any participant may be removed from a Club or Sport at any time at the discretion of administration.*****

FACILITY USAGE School facilities are available after school hours for use by school-approved groups such as scout troops. All after school functions, including regular meetings, must have administrative approval. Any third-party group must complete a Room Usage Request form. The form must be completed 2 weeks prior to the event date. An hourly fee will apply to events that last beyond 6:00 pm. The school’s office should be contacted in order to obtain the appropriate forms and written approval. Group leaders are required to ensure that facilities are left clean and orderly after usage.

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FAMILY INVOLVEMENT: THE KDHSA NEST (Parent-Teacher Organization) When schools and families work together to support learning, children perform better in school. At KDHSA, it is our goal to ensure that each student reaches his or her personal best level of achievement. The KDHSA NEST plays a key role in educational success by connecting the vast energy, knowledge, and resources of our students’ families with the needs of our school. Every parent/guardian, faculty and staff person at KDHSA can become a member of the KDHSA NEST; membership dues are requested. The NEST will hold elections for officers and collect membership fees.

Parent Liaison

KDHSA’s Parent Liaison works to bridge communication between home and school. The Parent Liaison helps parents get the information and support needed to ensure their child's academic and social success. The Parent Liaison assists families in understanding how to get involved and help their children to succeed. The Parent Liaison is available to assist families in need. All information shared with the Parent Liaison will be kept confidential. The Parent Liaison will work with the school volunteers to promote an environment that develops a strong sense of community. The Liaison is working along with the school counselor to develop a family center, which includes computer access to KDHSA related web sites and e-mail.

FEES

School Supply Fee

All students are assessed a supply fee each year. This fee funds the purchase of school classroom materials including: writing utensils, student agendas, home-to-school connection folders, and student ID badges. This fee also covers the large number of consumables that are collectively used in the lower grades. Additionally, this fee funds materials for KDHSA’s multi-disciplinary arts programs, library services, and a variety of class manipulatives. Student fees and Pre-K tuition payments should be paid through our Payment Portal with Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. Please go to https://tuition.gulfbank.com/users/sign_in to sign up. Specific directions can be found on the download page of the school website. http://discoveryhsf.org/kdhsa-team/parents/forms-downloads

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FIELD TRIPS A variety of field trips are planned throughout the year. Each parent must complete their child’s “Universal Field Trip Permission Slip” which is kept on file before the student will be allowed to participate in off-campus activities. Parents will be notified of the date, place, and cost of a field trip. Parent volunteers are welcome, but numbers may be limited due to space constraints. Volunteers/chaperones must follow school expectations and abide by teacher guidelines when on field trips. Parents may not purchase outside food or gifts for students without approval from the designated school authority (teacher, principal). Volunteers/chaperones may be asked to leave if they do not follow expectations and guidelines. Siblings or accompanying guests may not be brought along on field trips.

FOOD SERVICES The goal of KDHSA is to provide nutritious school meals and motivate students to make healthy food choices as part of a healthy lifestyle. The Swamp Owl Café provides a nutritionally balanced breakfast and lunch to students each school day. All meals meet the Nutritional Standards for the Traditional Food Based Menu Planning option mandated by the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. In keeping with our health-focused mission, KDHSA is encouraging students to choose healthy foods thus we have an “offer versus served” program in the café. Offer vs. Serve Breakfast Breakfast in the Swamp Owl Café includes 4 food items. Students are allowed to decline 1 food item, but must select at least ½ cup of fruit or vegetable. Students select other foods in the quantities served. Lunch KDHSA offers 5 food components (milk, fruit, vegetables, grains, meat/meat alternates). Students are allowed to decline 2 of the 5 required food components, but must select either a fruit or vegetable.

Meal Prices

Student meal prices are as follows: Reduced Price Full Price Breakfast $0.30 $1.40 Lunch $0.40 $2.75

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Free/Reduced Price Meals Applications for reduced price and free meals will be sent home at the beginning of the school year. All families are encouraged to complete an application. However, only one application per household should be completed. Completed applications must be returned to school. The free/reduced application must be completed correctly and signed by an adult household member. Failure to return a correctly completed application can result in the denial of meal benefits. Students who do not have an approved application on file will be required to pay full price until an application is approved. Parents will be notified of the eligibility determination through U.S. Postal Mail from 4th Sector Solutions. Previous School Year Free/Reduced Price Meals A new application is needed each school year regardless of whether a student was receiving free or reduced price meals from the previous school year. To ensure that a student’s meal benefits are continued without any interruptions, a new application must be received by August 17, 2016. The application approval process takes up to 10 operating days. Parents are responsible for all meal payments until the application is approved.

Meal Payments

KDHSA’s lunch policy requires that all parents pre-pay monthly, by semester, or annually for your child’s meals. There is a simple account setup process that allows for an easy, secure and convenient way to pay for your child’s lunch. The online service, K12PaymentCenter, gives you the ability to lookup your account balance at any time and in any place the internet is available. To enter money onto your account you can visit K12PaymentCenter.com. New users will need to register on the website. Select the “Create New User” option and start registration. Follow the instructions by:

• Select Louisiana as the “State” • Select Kenner Discovery Health Science Foundation as the “school district”.

• Select Discovery Health Sciences Academy as the “school”. • Student number which can be given at the front desk • Valid email address

KDHSA desires to serve nutritious meals to all KDHSA students, but it is the parent’s responsibility to provide payment and to complete a free/reduced meals application in a timely manner. Scheduled meals may not be provided to those students whose parents have neglected to pay or complete an application. The Food Services Department will provide a written notice to parents/guardians on each occurrence. According to Act 737, upon the third scheduled meal

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denial within a single school year, the school governing authority shall contact the office of community services, Department of Social Services. Special Diet Request

Special diet request forms are available from the Food Services Department or school nurse. A signed statement from a physician that is licensed by the state must support special diet request forms. Menu substitutions will only be served to students with a documented medical dietary need. Non-Disability Special Diet Requests Special diet requests (i.e., ethnic or religious) without a recognized medical disability may be accommodated at the discretion of the food services administrator. The KDHSA Food Services Department is not required to make substitutions for non-medical reasons. However, students are allowed to refuse food items within the guidelines of offer vs. serve. Competitive Foods

The KDHSA Food Services Department strives to promote a healthy lifestyle for our students with an emphasis on healthy eating. Therefore, competitive food items from outside restaurants are NOT ALLOWED in the cafeteria during student meal times. Carbonated beverages are NOT ALLOWED in the cafeteria during student meal times. Only milk, water, and 100% fruit or vegetable juice products are allowed in the cafeteria during student meals for all grade levels. Parents are encouraged to limit the frequency of the following high sugar and high fat foods: cakes, cookies, cupcakes, chips and candy. To foster a healthier lifestyle families are encouraged to increase the number of whole grains, fresh vegetables, and fresh fruits provided in lunch bags and snacks from home.

Meal Schedules

Breakfast 7:00 – 7:55 am Early Owl Breakfast (Kenner Campus Only)

7:45 – 8:00 am Breakfast-All Participants (Kenner Campus Only)

Lunch & Recess Schedule

Grade Lunch Start Lunch End Recess Start Recess End

PreK4 10:40 11:05 11:05 11:25

1st 10:45 11:08 11:08 11:30

2nd 11:00 11:22 11:22 11:44

3rd 11:12 11:34 10:48 11:12

4th 11:22 11:44 11:00 11:22

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5th 11:55 12:20 11:30 11:55

6th 12:25 12:50 12:00 12:25

7th 12:50 1:15 13:15 1:40

8th 1:15 1:40 12:50 1:15

9th 1:15 1:40 12:50 1:15

If there are any questions regarding the Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Food Services, you may contact our Food Services Manager, [email protected]. Non-discrimination Statement: “In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice). Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.”

FREE DRESS The principal may declare a “free dress day” for any or all students. Guidelines for Free Dress These guidelines must be followed or a student will be sent home and lose the privilege to participate in future free dress opportunities.

• Modes of dress or appearance disruptive to the progress of the educational program are not allowed.

• Skirts and shorts should be at the knee. • Tank tops with or without spaghetti straps may only be worn with a shirt over or under. • The abdomen must be covered at all times. • Jeans with no holes and other pants should be worn with a belt on or above the waist. • Tights or leggings may only be worn under shorts or a skirt.

In general, students should dress appropriately for school and the weather conditions. Hats, caps, coats and gloves are not to be worn in the building. Reasonable standards of cleanliness and decency are expected. Protective, closed toe footwear must be worn at all times (no sandals or flip flops). The principal or dean is the final authority for judging the appropriateness of a student’s appearance.

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GANG ACTIVITY PROHIBITED Students are prohibited from engaging in any gang activity. A gang is any group of two or more persons whose purpose includes the commission of illegal acts. No student shall engage in any gang activity including, but not limited to: • Wearing, using, distributing, displaying or selling any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge,

symbol, sign or other item that may show membership or affiliation in any gang • Committing any act, using any speech, either verbal or non-verbal, or showing membership or

gang affiliation (such as handshakes and gestures) • Using any speech or committing any act in furtherance of the interests of any gang activity,

including but not limited to: (a) soliciting others for membership in any gangs, (b) requesting any person to pay for protection or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person, (c) committing any other illegal act or other violation of school policies, (d) inciting other students to act with physical violence upon any other person. Students engaging in any gang-related activity will be subject to one or more of the following actions: removal from extracurricular activities, conference with parents/guardians, referral to Kenner Police Department and/or Jefferson Parish Police Department and/or suspension for up to 10 days or expulsion not to exceed 2 calendar years.

GRADING AND PROMOTION The partnership between home and school is crucial to the success of our students and our school. In response to questions from parents across the grade levels regarding grading policies, report cards, and homework philosophy and routines, we are providing you with an overview of KDHSA’s grading and reporting policies, homework philosophy, and homework routines.

Grading and Reporting PreK – 4th Grade

KDHSA will operate on a nine week, or quarterly interim assessment and grading cycle. Parents will receive report cards approximately one week after the end of each nine-week term. In addition, parents will receive progress report updates during the quarter. KDHSA is implementing a standards-based grade book that measures College and Career Readiness Standards and reflects the Louisiana Student Standards. Students in Kindergarten - 2nd grade will be assessed using a standards-based grading system including essential academic skills, work habits, organizational skills, and social skills required for the grade level. At each reporting period, parents and students will be informed of the student’s progress through the following developmental grading scale: KDHSA Grading Scale- PreK-2nd Grade In PreK-2nd grade, we evaluate students in a developmentally appropriate manner according to specific benchmark goals.

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Letter Grade S- Scholar Exceeds Standards R- Resident Meets Standards I- Intern Working Toward Meeting Standards N-Novice Not Yet Meeting Standards

KDHSA Grading Scale 3rd-4th

Letter Grade

Attainment Level

Skill Attainment Standards-based indicators

Percentage Equivalent

A Exceeds 5 93-100

B Meets 4 85-92

C Approaches 3 75-84

D Below 2 67-74

F Falls Far Below 1 49-66

Guided Reading Benchmark Chart and Description The “Current Reading Level” on the report goal reflects your child’s current instructional reading level. The standards reflect their work at that current instructional level. Our goal is to raise their instructional level to meet grade level benchmark goals as listed below. If you have questions, please schedule a conference with your child’s teacher for a further explanation.

Guided Reading Benchmarks Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

K A B C D 1st E F G H 2nd I J K L 3rd M N O P 4th P Q R S 5th S T U V 6th V W X Y 7th Y Y Z Z

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8th Z Z Z Z

Homework Philosophy PreK-4th KDHSA believes that homework is a necessary extension of learning to develop lifelong learners and foster academic success. Homework is a research-supported component of the educational excellence we strive to achieve. At KDHSA, we also value the importance of quality family time, healthy living, and supporting the needs of the whole child. Therefore, recommended times for homework in each subject will be kept to a reasonable time frame. Purposes of Homework Homework is a necessary component of any child’s academic skill set. At KDHSA, homework is intended to be meaningful and productive. Homework is assigned and generally intended to be independent activities which students complete to develop responsibility and academic skills to foster and enhance their overall learning. There are varied types of assignments, but most fall into one of these categories: Practice: Material previously taught in class to reinforce learning and develop fluency. Preparation: Reading texts or watching educational videos about new content in order to prepare for class activities and instruction the next day. Review: Practice skills from previous classes/grades to reinforce mastery and/or prepare for assessments. Enrichment: Extend learning from class by completing projects, including research, writing, editing, and other activities. Development: Foster good lifelong learning and study habits. Provide an opportunity for students to become responsible for their own learning by developing self-regulation processes such as goal-setting, self-efficacy, self-reflection and time management. Grade Level Average Time that Should be Spent on Homework

Kindergarten 10-15 minutes + 20 minutes for reading

1st 10-15 minutes + 20 minutes for reading

2nd 20 minutes +20 minutes for reading

3 30 minutes + 20 minutes for reading

4th 30 minutes + 20 Minutes for reading

Homework Routine PreK-4th Homework is kept to a minimum to allow time for quality family experiences and extracurricular enrichment activities. All KDHSA students in Prek-4th will read for 20- 30 minutes each night and complete a daily reading homework log. Depending on your child’s comfort level with reading, he/she can read to you, read independently, listen to you read, or listen to an audio book.

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We ask that your child read four times per week for 20- 30 minutes each reading, and that you and your child complete the KDHSA reading log. In grades PreK-1, completing the reading log can be a shared experience where your child verbalizes a response to the book and you write/type what your child has dictated on the reading log template. For students in 2nd-4th grades, completing the reading log can be a shared experience where you and your child discuss and summarize the section/chapter read before recording the 1-2 sentence summary on the reading log template. Or, if your child is comfortable doing it independently, encourage him/her to complete the reading log unaided. If you have a collection of your own books, feel free to read family favorites. Repetition of books is an excellent way to build literacy skills, so encourage your child to reread favorite books. Listed below are a few important facts about kids and reading:

• Students who read widely and frequently are higher achievers than students who read narrowly and rarely.

• A student who reads 20 minutes per day will read 1,800,000 words by the end of the sixth grade.

Grading and Reporting 5th – 12th Grade KDHSA will operate on a nine week, or quarterly interim assessment and grading cycle. Parents will receive report cards approximately one week after the end of each nine-week term. In addition, parents will receive progress report updates throughout the quarter by accessing OnCourse Connect. KDHSA is implementing a standards-based grade book that measures College and Career Readiness Standards and reflects the Louisiana Student Standards. Students will receive letter grades of A, B, C, D, and F in all core subjects (ie. English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies) and points on a 5-4-3-2-1 scale on the standards-based report card. Students in grades 5th - 12th will be assessed using an extensive standards-based grading system indicating essential academic skills, work habits, organizational skills, and social skills required for the grade level. At each reporting point, parents and students will be informed of the student’s progress through the following developmental grading scale:

KDHSA Grading Scale 5th-8th Letter Grade

Attainment Level



Quality Point Scale

A Exceeds 5 93-100 4

B Meets 4 85-92 3

C Approaches 3 75-84 2

D Below 2 67-74 1

F Falls Far Below

1 49-66 0

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KDHSHS Grading Scale 9-12 Letter Grade

Attainment Level



Quality Point Scale

A Exceeds 5 93-100 3.5- 4.0

B Meets 4 85-92 2.5- 3.49

C Approaches 3 75-84 1.5 -2.49

D Below 2 67-74 1.0- 1.49

F Falls Far Below

1 49-66 0- .99

Honors Courses High School Report card grades earned for honors courses shall be weighted by a factor of 1.10 when GPAs are computed Letter Grade Cumulative Grade Point Average

A 4.40

B 3.30

C 2.20

D 1.10

F 0

Advanced Placement Courses Report card grades earned for honors courses shall be weighted by a factor of 1.12 when GPAs are computed Letter Grade Cumulative Grade Point Average

A 4.48

B 3.36

C 2.24

D 1.12

F 0

HOMEWORK PHILOSOPHY

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KDHSA believes that homework is a necessary extension of learning to develop lifelong learners and foster academic success. Homework is a research-supported component of the educational excellence we strive to achieve. At KDHSA, we also value the importance of quality family time, healthy living, and supporting the needs of the whole child. Therefore, recommended times for homework in each subject will be kept to a reasonable time frame. Purposes of Homework Homework is a necessary component of any child’s academic skill set. At KDHSA, homework is intended to be meaningful and productive. Homework is assigned and generally intended to be independent activities which students complete to develop responsibility and academic skills to foster and enhance their overall learning. There are varied types of assignments, but most fall into one of these categories: Practice: Material previously taught in class to reinforce learning and develop fluency. Preparation: Reading texts or watching educational videos about new content in order to prepare for class activities and instruction the next day. Review: Practice skills from previous classes/grades to reinforce mastery and/or prepare for assessments. Enrichment: Extend learning from class by completing projects, including research, writing, editing, and other activities. Development: Foster good lifelong learning and study habits. Provide an opportunity for students to become responsible for their own learning by developing self-regulation processes such as goal-setting, self-efficacy, self-reflection and time management. Grade Level Average Time that Should be Spent on Homework

5th 50-60 minutes

6th 60-70 minutes

7th 70-80 minutes

8th 80-90 minutes

9th 90-100 minutes

HEALTH GUIDELINES KDHSA employs a school nurse who attends to the well-being of students. The school nurse provides care for illness or injury, educates students on health care and developmental concerns,

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provides health screenings, and acts as the liaison between home, school and health care providers.

Immunizations All students entering school in Louisiana must show proof of all required age-appropriate vaccinations. Each school year the nurse reviews vaccination records for all students. The nurse works closely with the State Department of Health, utilizing the Louisiana Immunization Network for Kids Statewide (LINKS) database to track immunization information for each child. Parents should update immunization records as needed. Parents/guardians may request an exemption from immunization requirements. Please see the school nurse for exemption procedures.

Medication Administration Parents are encouraged to schedule administration of student medication so that medication is given at home whenever possible. In cases where medication must be administered at school the following procedures apply: 1. No medication may be administered to any student without a MEDICATION

ADMINSTRATION ORDER FORM signed by their Louisiana licensed physician and an authorization form signed by the student’s parent or guardian. The MEDICATION ADMINSTRATION ORDER FORM is available from the school nurse.

2. Only oral, pre-measured aerosol for inhalation, topical ointment for diaper rash and emergency medications may be administered at school by unlicensed trained personnel who are under the supervision of the school nurse.

3. No medication may be administered to any student unless the medication is provided to the school in a container that meets acceptable pharmacy standards.

4. Only medication that cannot be administered before or after school may be administered by 2:30 pm.

5. The parent or his/her designated adult is held responsible for delivering medication to the school nurse designated to receive it. The parent or designated adult is also responsible for retrieving unused medication from the school.

6. All medication not retrieved by the parent or designated adult will be destroyed one week after the expiration date or at the end of the school year, following notification of the parent.

7. Students may be allowed to self-administer medication such as an asthma inhaler, if his /her physician indicates it on the medication order. Self-administration of medication will be allowed if the school nurse verifies that the student uses proper procedure and technique.

8. Over-the-counter medications (non-prescription) are handled in the same manner as prescription medications. An order form from the physician and authorization from the parent/guardian are required. The medication must be brought to school in a container that meets acceptable pharmacy standards.

9. The initial dose of medication must be administered at home and sufficient time must be allowed for observation of adverse reactions before asking school personnel to administer medication.

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KDHSA is not responsible for a student’s reaction to medication when it is given in accordance with the prescriber’s directions.

Illness/Injury In the event of illness or injury, the nurse provides assessment and gives first aid. The nurse does not diagnose illness, but will take note of symptoms and notify parents of observations. If a child becomes ill or is injured at school he/she will be given first aid and the parents will be notified if the severity of the illness warrants such action. If the student is suspected of having a contagious illness the parent will be notified and the student should be picked up within thirty (30) minutes of the notification. Minor scrapes and bruises will be attended to at school, and the child will be returned to class. It is asked that students be kept home when ill until they have a normal temperature (less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit without the assistance of fever reducing medications, ex- Tylenol and Motrin) for 24 hours before returning to school. Students recovering from communicable diseases and/or missing more than 5 or more consecutive days of school must check-in to the front office with a physician’s note clearing return to school; students should check with the nurse prior to being readmitted to class.

Chronic Illness/Allergies All students with chronic conditions such as: asthma, allergic reaction, diabetes, respiratory distress or seizure disorder must meet with the nurse at the beginning or the school year to develop an emergency care plan which must accompany orders signed by the child’s physician for medication and/or treatment in school. The nurse will communicate with school administration as necessary to implement the emergency plan. The Food Services Administrator will be notified in writing of any students with food allergies or intolerance.

Emergency Procedures – Severe Injury Policy A student sustaining severe or life threatening injury or illness at school will be triaged by the nurse, 911 will be called, and paramedics will transport the student to an appropriate medical facility.

Lice Any student suspected of having head lice is excluded from school until satisfactory treatment has been given. Discretion is used to check other students in classes where there is a head lice outbreak. Written notification will be sent to all homerooms regarding head lice outbreaks (2 or more students).

Mandatory Abuse Reporting Teachers and other school staff are required by law to report suspected child abuse or neglect when they have reasonable cause to believe such abuse, neglect or crime has occurred or is occurring. Abuse is the non-accidental physical, sexual or emotional injury to a child; neglect is the failure to fulfill a child’s physical or emotional needs.

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HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION KDHSA recognizes the importance of open and informative communication with students, staff, parents and community members. Parents receive information about their child’s progress and other school-related information in a variety of ways. Whenever possible e-mail will be used to communicate school information of general interest. Families without Internet access may use a guest computer at school. Contact the Parent Liaison, Michelle Duplantier, for assistance in using the computer ([email protected] ). Flyers, bulletins, and the KDHSA newsletter regularly communicate information to parents. KDHSA’s monthly newsletter, “The Owl” contains campus information and activities. KDHSA’s website, http://www.discoveryhsf.org, is updated regularly and should be the primary source of school information. Parent-teacher conferences are held twice a year. These conferences provide an opportunity to share information related to the academic, social, emotional and personal growth of each student. When appropriate, students may be included in a parent-teacher conference. Parents or teachers may also request additional conferences when needed. Questions regarding assignments, students’ progress or other academic-related issues should be directed to the classroom teacher or advisor, who is the primary source of information. Contact may be made by letter, e-mail, or telephone. Parents may leave a message for staff throughout the day and after school hours. Teachers will not interrupt class to take phone calls unless there is an emergency. Teachers are encouraged to check for messages throughout the day; a response will be provided within 48 hours. Each student will have a Home-School Connection folder and a Student Agenda to facilitate communication between parents and teachers. Homework, notifications, messages or other communications should be placed in this folder. Parents should check the Home-School Connection folder and Student Agenda daily.

INTERNET USE BY STUDENTS ● All classrooms, offices, and the school library are equipped with computers to aid in

classroom instruction. To further the school’s educational goals and objectives, these computers have access to the Internet. Students must have a signed Internet Acceptable Use Policy on file to use the network. (See Appendix E)

● KDHSA believes that the benefits to educators and students from access to the Internet,

in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, far exceed any disadvantages of access. While we do have an internet filter to prevent known offensive sites, the school does not have control over information created daily on the internet, and some sites may contain illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive material.

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Ultimately, parents/guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that students should follow. KDHSA respects parents’ choice of internet access for their children in school.

● Students must agree to follow the school’s Internet Acceptable Use Policy as follows: ○ Use of the KDHSA network must be consistent with KDHSA’s primary goals. ○ KDHSA network may not be used for illegal purposes of any kind. ○ KDHSA network may not be used to transmit threatening, obscene or harassing

materials. KDHSA will not be held responsible if students participate in such activities.

○ KDHSA network may not be used to interfere with or disrupt network users, services or equipment. Disruptions include, but are not limited to, distribution of unsolicited advertising, propagation of computer worms and viruses, and using the network to make unauthorized entry to any other machine accessible via the network.

○ Students will print only to a local printer or to the printer designated by the instructor. ○ It is assumed that information and resources accessible via the KDHSA network are

private. KDHSA network may not be used to access information or resources unless permission has been granted by the owners or holders of rights to those resources or information.

ITEMS NOT ALLOWED IN SCHOOL Children are not allowed to bring iPods, personal music players, electronic devices, trading cards (Pokémon, Sports cards, etc.) toys, games, skateboards or other personal items to school unless requested in writing by a teacher. Unauthorized items will be taken from the student and brought to the Principal’s office. For the first offense, the student may pick-up the electronic device from the principal at the end of the school day. For a second offense, the device will be returned only to the student’s parent/guardian. A third offense or more requires the parent to pay $25 for return of the electronic item. KDHSA is not responsible for lost, stolen or broken items. Students are FORBIDDEN to bring to school any weapon, replica of a weapon or any object that may be used to cause bodily harm. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken, up to and including expulsion from school. Notification to the Kenner Police Department may also occur. State and Federal laws require that a student who is determined to have brought a weapon (as defined in Title 18, Section 921 of the United States Code) to school shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year. The possession, use or distribution of, or any attempt to use or distribute any illegal or controlled substance, including alcohol or drugs, is prohibited on school grounds before, during and after school or at any school-related activity. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken for such gross disobedience or misconduct, up to and including expulsion from school. Notification to the Kenner Police Department may also occur. Student’s desks, lockers, cubbies or other school property can be searched at any time and for any reason, with or without notice. A student or his/her possessions may be searched if there is a reasonable suspicion that specific student has violated the law or school expectations. School

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administrators or faculty may seize any contraband items that are illegal or violate school expectations. Parents will be notified of any searches & seizures. At all times, searches will be conducted by no less than two (2) school staff members, including at least one administrator. Whenever possible, searches will take place out of sight of other students and the results of all searches will remain confidential, except to report illegal activity to the proper authorities.

LIBRARY The Library supports the students of the Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy by providing access to materials that meet their educational and informational needs. Currently the library’s collection consists of 3,000 donated books that were pocketed, cataloged, and inventoried by our generous Library Committee. Students are allowed to check out books and materials during regularly scheduled library hours. OVERDUE OR LOST MATERIALS - It is the responsibility of the borrower to return materials by the due date. Borrowed materials should be returned to the library during regular library hours. Overdue materials are fined 25¢ per school day. All library users are expected to pay for lost or damaged books and audiovisual materials. Such materials will also be assessed a processing fee of $25/per item plus replacement cost. All family accounts must be current for your child to be eligible for all programs including checking books and materials out of the library.

LOST-AND-FOUND KDHSA maintains a lost-and-found area in the cafeteria. Parents and students are encouraged to check this area as soon as they notice an item missing. Due to the large number of items that accumulate throughout the year, it is necessary to clear unclaimed items each quarter. Please label the following with your child’s full name: all sweaters, KDHSA wear, lunch boxes, etc.

NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS Unless prohibited by a court order, KDHSA will, upon the request of either parent of a student whose parents are separated or divorced, provide the requesting parent with copies of any documents relating to: the student’s academic progress, the student’s emotional and/or physical health, notices of school-initiated parent-teacher conferences; notices of major school-sponsored events which involve parent-student interaction and the school calendar. In the event the right of one parent to visit or have contact with a child has been prohibited by court order, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide the school principal with a copy of this court order and to ensure that the order is kept current. This is required to provide school personnel with a legal basis for restricting contact of a non-custodial parent in the school setting. If a court

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order has expired and a subsequent order prohibiting contact has been entered, the custodial parent must provide the principal with a copy of the new order.

PARENTAL BEHAVIOR KDHSA parents are expected to be active members of our school community. Families agreed to a minimum of five (5) volunteer hours per month at school or school related events. It is the policy of the school to expect parents and family members of students to follow the HEART tenets of Honor, Endurance, Academic Achievement, Responsibility, and Tolerance when on campus and at school sponsored events. Behavior such as verbal abuse directed toward faculty, staff or students, sexual harassment directed toward faculty, staff or students, profanity or fighting will be grounds for suspension from future school events and potential legal action, such as restraining orders, to be put into motion. KDHSA is going to great lengths to teach our students appropriate use of social media. As the adult role models in their lives, we need to practice appropriate netiquette ourselves. Our open and closed Facebook pages allow for posting without pre-approval of the post at this time. Our open Facebook page is used as a recruiting tool for the Facebook community to see who we are and how we operate. Please keep this in mind when posting here. Our closed Facebook page is for the use of our school community only: parents, teachers, and students. Its primary purposes are to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and faculty and to disseminate school related information. It is not to be used for complaints and general rants. Complaints are best solved with face-to-face communications and parents partnering with us for solutions. Any negative comments, complaints, rants of any type, abusive or harassing comments will be deleted immediately by page managers. Repetitive removals will result in suspension from the closed group. Thank you for your cooperation in adhering to and strengthening our positive HEARTfelt school culture.

PARTIES, TREATS, AND CELEBRATIONS School parties are limited so as to cause minimal interference with the instructional program of the school. Birthdays are acknowledged in the classroom with a special headpiece or seat. Parents are not allowed to bring treats for birthdays. Special lunches may not be brought to school for birthdays as we do not serve competing meals. Invitations to parties may not be distributed at school unless all students or all gender specific students in the class are invited. Seasonal parties may be held on the last school day prior to the start of the holiday period. Parties and treats must be minimal and within teacher guidelines.

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PLACEMENT INFORMATION Student class placement is based on academic, social, and personal needs and is designed to create balanced classrooms. Parents are asked to refrain from making requests for specific teachers. If there is information that should influence class assignment, it must be communicated, in writing, to the principal prior to the end of a school year.

PLAYGROUND EXPECTATIONS When students are on the playground, they should maintain appropriate behavior and demonstrate good sportsmanship. Excessive rough play and contact sports are prohibited. To ensure that students remain safe, those students who cannot maintain appropriate behavior may lose recess privileges. Parents will be notified of significant problems that occur on the playground. This applies to before school, lunch recess, class recess time, and after school. Please review the following playground expectations with your child: ● Balls, jump ropes and miscellaneous playground equipment are to be taken out to the

playground by designated monitors for each class. When entering the cafeteria, all playground equipment (i.e. balls, jump ropes, Frisbees, etc.) should be placed in the designated area. Students may not bring personal playground items to school.

● Students are to leave personal toys (including trading cards) at home. ● Stones, sticks, and other such objects are not toys and should be left on the ground. ● Students are to remain in their assigned play space during recess.

Slides: ● Students should sit down, feet first before sliding. ● One person slides down at a time. ● Students should wait until the previous child is off the slide before sliding down. ● Students should slide down immediately and not sit at the top of the slide for extended

periods. ● Students should refrain from climbing UP a slide.

SAFETY Drills are conducted throughout the school year. Emergency exit information is posted in each classroom and staff members review procedures on an annual basis. The school maintains a crisis management plan on file in the front office, every classroom, and office. Faculty and staff will take reasonable steps to protect students from any injury that the faculty/staff should have reasonably foreseen.

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If a student is injured at school, or during a school-organized activity, the student’s parent/guardian is responsible for the cost of medical treatment. This includes the cost of transport to a medical facility or to their home.

SCHOOL IDS Each student will be provided an official photo ID. All students are required to wear their IDs daily. A student without an ID is considered out-of- uniform. There is a $5.00 replacement fee for lost IDs.

SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT KDHSA is a tobacco-free campus.

STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS KDHSA administers standardized assessments for several purposes, such as program evaluation. These assessments reflect many of the state’s curriculum goals in specific subject areas. The composite assessment results of a grade level provide an objective measure of how well subject matter is being learned. KDHSA students participate in all assessments required by the Louisiana Department of Education.

STUDENT PRIVACY The legislature recently passed legislation, Act 837, which provides for limitations and prohibitions on the collection and sharing of student information. Additionally, the legislature passed Act 677, which requires that LDE and LEAs publish information on their websites about the sharing of students’ personally identifiable information. The law defines PII as information about an individual that can be used on its own or with other information to identify, contact, or locate a single individual. KDHSA is aligned with the requirements of both Act 837 and Act 677. For additional information, visit the LDOE website.

STUDENT RECORDS KDHSA recognizes that the collection, maintenance, inspection and dissemination of relevant student educational records are important to the proper operation of the school community. KDHSA complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and all-pertinent regulations, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the expectations of the Louisiana State Department of Education. All student educational records are collected, maintained, inspected, disseminated and destroyed pursuant to these federal and state regulations. KDHSA is required by the State to maintain the following information on each student: Birth Certificate (COPY) Medical Form for Chronic Illnesses

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Social Security Card (COPY) Free & Reduced Price Meal Application Proof of Address Documentation (COPY) Student Cumulative Records Vaccination Records (COPY) Student Grades End of Year Transcript (COPY) Discipline Records Emergency Consent Form Declaration of Domicile Attendance Records Results of Vision and Hearing Screenings Health History Scores & Individual Student Reports for Annual State Testing (LEAP, iLEAP, PARCC) In addition, KDHSA requires that the following forms be on file:

• Current Year School Registration Form • Emergency Contact and Pick-up Information Form • Authorization to Use Materials/Photographs/Images • Emergency Consent Form • Universal Field Trip Permission Form • Attendance and Truancy Policy Agreement • Late Pick-up Policy Agreement • Home Language Survey

All forms must be completed using the child’s given name as registered on their birth certificate. In the event that a birth name has been legally changed, a copy of the court order certifying the change must accompany the copy of the child’s birth certificate. All changes in personal information should be provided to the front office (ie. telephone number, mailing address, email address, custodial rights). Louisiana Public Schools are required to have a physical address on record for each student. Please alert the Data Department if your family has a mailing address (such as a PO Box) different from the physical address provided. Any change in student information should be transmitted as soon as possible to KDHSA’s Front Office: Crissy Delatte, [email protected] (PreK-K) Debbie Maynard, [email protected] (PreK4, 1st-4th) Rachelle Jacob, [email protected] (PreK4, 1st-4th) Wendy Dennis [email protected] (5th-9th)

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Records Request Policy Copies of students’ records can be obtained by submitting a Records Request Form (available in the school office). The first copy is free; all subsequent copies are $25 per set. Please allow ten (10) business days for processing. FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, is a federal law that gives parents and students certain rights with respect to a student’s educational records. These rights include the right to access, inspect and request correction of those records. If the school decides not to make a requested change, the parent or student has the right to a formal hearing before the charter school board. Every school has a duty to ensure that these rights are protected (see http://www.doe.state.la.us/lde/uploads/3312.pdf). FERPA also states that certain types of information (such as information that may appear in a school directory, participation in sports or activities, dates of attendance at school, degrees or awards received, or most recent previous school attended) may be disclosed without the expressed consent of a parent/guardian. Parents/guardians are asked to consent to student information to be used in school publications and media related to school by checking the box and signing on page 6 of this handbook. If you do not want your child’s pictures, artwork, and academic work used in school publications please inform the KDHSA Front Office. It is the policy of the Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy that no identifying information on a student is disclosed without written consent from a parent/guardian. However, please note that, under FERPA, the school may disclose information to certain parties without the parent/guardian’s consent. The following are exempt from FERPA:

• School officials and teachers with legitimate educational interests. • Officials and teachers of other schools to which the student is transferring. • Authorized governmental representatives as required by law. • Financial aid agencies to which the student/family has applied. • In an emergency, appropriate health & safety officials so they can protect the health or

safety of the student or others. • To individuals designated by lawful subpoena or judicial order

All other personally identifiable information may not be disclosed without a parent’s or guardian’s written permission that specifically states the records to be released, the reasons for release and the person/organization to which the records should be released.

STUDENT TUITION

Pre-K Tuition: All Pre-K tuition should be paid through our Payment Portal with Gulf Coast Bank & Trust. https://tuition.gulfbank.com/users/sign_in .

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TECHNOLOGY KDHSA utilizes various education technology platforms including Google Apps for Education, which allows teachers to communicate with families via e-mail, share Google Documents, and individually customized websites. In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, KDHSA maintains an Internet filter on the school network. KDHSA will issue a Gmail account to all 3rd – 9th grade students. Families need to be aware that parents and guardians have access to this account. Students, especially in the upper grades, may regularly use this account to communicate with teachers about schoolwork. Families are encouraged to use electronic mail to communicate with teachers and monitor their children’s activity on their school accounts. Each employee email address is formatted as follow: [email protected] Example [email protected] KDHSA network access is a privilege, not a right. Any violation of the following will result in forfeiture of permission to use the Internet and the appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. The following technology expectations should be followed at all times: ● All hardware and software used in the school is the property of the school, not the student.

As such, students have no reasonable expectation of privacy to any information saved on or transmitted through any part of the school’s network.

● All students must have a signed permission slip from their parents that authorizes them to access the Internet and use their school e-mail account. (See Acceptable Use Policy - Appendix E)

● Respect for the school’s physical equipment, electronic files, network, classmates, faculty and staff is a condition for use of a computer. Students who deliberately damage equipment will be responsible for the cost or replacement of said damaged equipment.

● Students who participate in cyber-bullying commit a Class 3 infraction and will receive consequences in accordance with Class 3 infractions.

● Students may not deliberately damage the network or any part of the network’s system. ● Students are to notify their teacher immediately of any disturbing material they may

encounter online. Students may not view, download or transmit any offensive, inappropriate or illegal material.

● Students may not gamble on the network or use the network for commercial purposes, lobbying or advertisement.

● Students are never to give out or publish personal information over the Internet. ● Students may not share passwords or allow other students to use their school account. ● Students are not to visit or download files from File Sharing or Social Media websites

(Twitter, Facebook, etc.) on the Internet. ● The school may filter Internet content and monitor student access as deemed necessary

and appropriate. ● School email accounts should be used only for academic or school related purposes. No

personal messages should be sent to friends or classmates. No use of outside email during school. (See Appendix E)

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TRANSPORTATION Parents are encouraged to drop-off and pick-up their child on a daily basis. Limited transportation is provided to students. There are designated pick-up and drop-off locations that may require students to walk/travel a short distance to/from home. The locations of the transportation hubs and the window of time that students will be picked up and dropped off are determined by the bus company before the 1st day of school. See Appendix B for specific expectations in regard to Bus Behavior.

TUTORING If you have made arrangements for a tutor, please be advised that: ● tutoring may not take place during the school day, except during Office Hours held by

teachers throughout the week in middle school; ● fee-based tutoring may not take place on the KDHSA campus without permission from

the Head of School; ● under no circumstances, may a KDHSA teacher or assistant teacher tutor his/her own

student for pay.

UNIFORM GUIDELINES Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy’s goal is to build a community of learners where we meet high standards. The school uniform policy supports this goal by reducing distractions and helping students to focus on learning. The purpose of this policy is to provide increased school safety, to minimize disruption, to easily identify trespassers on campus and to promote improvement in student behavior. School uniforms also help students to experience a greater sense of school identity and belonging that promotes academic excellence. All students must adhere to the school uniform daily, except when “free dress” is permitted. In all cases, the school principal shall inform the student, parent/guardian and school community about the school dress code policy. All students and parents/guardians are expected to follow the written policy. Questions about the uniform policy should be referred first to the principal. Individuals who still have questions about the uniform policy may then contact the principal.

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*Student IDs are a part of the school uniform and must be worn at ALL times. Pre-K/K Girls

• Green smocked dress with bloomers - KD monogrammed on collar • Navy crew neck sweatshirt with monogram logo • Navy cardigan with monogram logo • Solid black VELCRO shoes • White Crew style socks • Nap mat any color, must have a strap for hanging • White or navy tights in cold weather may be worn • PE uniforms are not required. Only PE uniforms or school uniforms are allowed for

Physical education classes. (No alternative clothing is allowed.) • White KDHSA logo turtle-neck

Pre-K/K Boys

• Navy shorts or pants • Navy magnetic style belt • Gray short sleeve monogram polo shirt • Navy crew neck sweatshirt with monogram logo • Navy cardigan with monogram logo • Solid black VELCRO tennis shoes • White Crew style socks • Nap mat any color, must have a strap for hanging • PE uniforms are not required. Only PE uniforms or school uniforms are allowed for


Grades 1st – 8th Boys

• Navy shorts or pants • Navy web style belt • Gray short sleeve monogram polo shirt • Navy crew neck sweatshirt with monogram logo • Navy cardigan with monogram logo • Predominately black tennis shoes with a gray or white trim only • White Crew style socks • PE uniforms are not required for Pre-K-3rd. • PE uniforms are required for 4th – 9th. • Only PE uniforms or school uniforms are allowed for Physical Education classes. (No

alternative clothing is allowed.) • White KDHSA logo turtle-neck

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Grades 1st – 3rd Girls

• White Peter Pan style blouse (round collar) with KD monogram • Drop waist plaid jumper • Plaid shorts • Plaid skort • Navy crew neck sweatshirt with monogram logo • Navy cardigan with monogram logo • Predominately black tennis shoes with a gray or white trim only • White Crew style socks or ankle socks that are at least 1" above ankle • White or navy tights may be worn • Shorts must be worn under school jumper • PE uniforms are not required. Only PE uniforms or school uniforms are allowed for


Grades 4th Girls

• White Peter Pan style blouse (round collar) with KD monogram • Plaid skirt • Plaid shorts • Plaid skort • Navy crew neck sweatshirt with monogram logo • Navy cardigan with monogram logo • Predominately black tennis shoes with a gray or white trim only • White Crew style socks or ankle socks that are at least 1" above ankle • White or navy tights may be worn • PE uniforms are required. (No alternative clothing is allowed.) • White KDHSA logo turtle-neck

Grades 5th-8th Girls

• White logo polo shirt • Plaid skirt or skort • Plaid pants (expected availability is December 2016) • Navy crew neck sweatshirt with monogram logo • Navy cardigan with monogram logo • Predominately black tennis shoes with a gray or white trim only • White Crew style socks or ankle socks that are at least 1" above ankle • White or navy tights may be worn • PE uniforms are required. (No alternative clothing is allowed.) • White KDHSA logo turtle-neck

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Grades 9th Boys

• White button down oxford shirt • Navy pants with belt • Grey v-neck sweater with logo • Plaid bow-tie (formal) • Black military shoe

Girls

• White button down oxford logo shirt • Plaid skirt or skort • Plaid pants • Grey v-neck sweater with logo • Cross necktie (formal) • Navy/white saddle oxford shoes

Other optional items for all grades Boys and Girls

• Navy crew sweatshirt with logo • Navy zip up fleece jacket • KDHSA royal hoodie (allowed to wear through 2017-18)

Only a solid white under shirt and solid white socks made be worn daily. The monogrammed sweatshirt, monogrammed cardigan, navy crew sweatshirt, or royal blue hoodie is the only outerwear that is allowed in the classroom. On cold days, coats or jackets may be worn to school and hung with the school bag or placed in the student’s locker. Inappropriate Clothing / Appearance include the following:

1. Nail length exceeding ¾ of an inch 2. Ripped or torn clothing 3. Short (length) skirt, skorts, and shorts 4. Sagging pants and shorts 5. Non-white socks 6. Unnatural hair color 7. Hair covering eyes 8. Jewelry, with the exception of one wristwatch and one stud earring in each ear 9. Smart watch

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES KDHSA believes that every child’s education is the joint responsibility of the school, the student, their family and the community. By volunteering in the school, parents and community members create a valued resource for students by sharing expertise and demonstrating support of the educational process. This support may be assisting in the library or computer lab, serving as a

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special speaker, making instructional materials, accompanying field trips, or any number of other activities. KDHSA’s Parent Liaison, Michelle Duplantier, ([email protected]) is the primary contact for volunteer opportunities at KDHSA. In order to ensure that volunteers’ efforts are coordinated efficiently and effectively, all volunteers are asked to complete a “Getting to Know You” interest form. These forms will be used to match volunteers with faculty and school needs as appropriate. Upcoming volunteer opportunities for KDHSA parents/guardians will be posted regularly and updated frequently on the KDHSA website (http://www.discoveryhsf.org). Volunteers are asked to sign in and out at the front desk and are required to wear a volunteer badge when on school grounds. Volunteers are required to log their hours with the Parent Liaison.

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APPENDICES APPENDIX A: BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

Cafeteria Arrival/Dismissal Hallways Restrooms Playground

HBe respectful of personal space. Show gratitude in all circumstances. Use proper language. Clean up class area. Only touch your food.

Be respectful of personal space, property, school grounds, and everyone on campus. Use proper language.

Walk tall with hands to yourself. Keep voices quiet. Maintain personal space in line.

Use the toilet, urinals, and vents for their intended purposes. Respect the physical space in the restroom and others' privacy. Turn off water immediately after you finish.

Be mindful of your peers’ space. Be kind to others. Be a good sport.

EPatiently wait your turn. Keep your area clean. Stay seated until everyone is done.

Show patience in line. Stay seated until it's your turn to load. Speak at a low volume.

Walk the entire route to your destination. Remain quiet.

Wait your turn to use the restroom. Use the restroom, wash your hands, and come out.

Be aware of your strength. Wait your turn.

AEat healthy to feed your brain. Use inside voices and kind words.

Show academic engagement through reading, reviewing, etc. Use quiet voices and kind words.

Read the signs and posters on the walls. Think about your actions. Reflect on your classes. Be aware of others’ learning. (Stay quiet)

Quickly use the restroom and return to class. Properly wash your hands using the ABC song.

THINK before you act. Listen and explain rules. Consider social expectations. Play educational games.

RBe respectful of personal space. Keep hands and feet to yourself. Speak in a soft voice, but boldly state your order.

Keep hands by your sides. Act in a safe manner. Monitor your belongings and actions.

Pick up trash. Don’t make a mess with water fountains, etc...

Flush the toilet and urinal. Wash your hands. Keep restrooms clean.

Keep hands to yourself. Be respectful of people and equiment. Pick up equipment as directed.

TShow kindness to everyone. Respect everyone's opinion. Be patient.

Show kindness to everyone. Be flexible and adaptable. Wait quietly in hallway during rainy days. Think beyond yourself. Consider others in your decision-making.

Stay in a straight line. Walk on the right side of the hallway, not rushing those in front or behind you.

Be respectful of others’ behavior, including accidents or restroom activity.

Treat peers as you would want to be treated. Include others.

Co-Curricular P.E. Field Trips/Bus Classroom Library Office

HContinue classroom teacher's expectations in all classes. Respect the property of the teacher.

Follow expectations and be helpful.

Respect your appearance/uniforms. Demonstrate manners. Accept the assigned seat without argument. Follow KDHSA behavior expectations.

Take pride in your own and others' work. Always follow classroom procedures.

Follow library policies and procedures. Bring books back on time. Enter and exit quietly.

Greet the office staff and visitors when you enter. Be respectful to everyone.

EIf it’s rigorous -persevere. Do not be afraid to try new things. Give it a good try. Seek solutions.

Don't give up! No matter how difficult it may be, keep trying different activities. Practice makes perfect.

Have mental endurance. Enjoy the educational experience. Make the trip meaningful.

Remain positive. Try again. Ask for help.

Show self-control. Use your library voice.

Wait patiently to be addressed. Listen to the complete answer given and follow the directives given.

ADo YOUR best! Show sportsmanship, even in competitions.

Be open to athletic skills and practice.

Learn and observe. Learn from our environment.

Do your best in all you do, especially your work.

Expand your world with reading. Read more. Choose challenging books.

Think about what you need and the proper way to ask for it.

RBe a leader. Bring all requested materials to class. Return materials to proper place.

Take good care of the equipment. Be aware of friends that might need encouragement.

Be mindful of your surroundings. Display manners. Be a good buddy.

Enter quietly. Be ready. Bring materials. Pay attention.

Clean up after yourself and take care of materials.

Have a pass. Clearly state your reason for the visit to the staff member. Return directly to class.

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Be tolerant of other people's differences. Students will not be good at ALL things, but all students will be good at something.

Have positive teamwork attitude. Display sportsmanlike conduct.

Respect the speaker and workers on field trips. Respect others and display manners. Be open to new experiences and people.

Respect others' thoughts, words, actions, and property.

Be open to different perspectives, ideas, and learning styles.

Accept the answer whether you like it or not.

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APPENDIX B: SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS RIDING SCHOOL BUSES The school bus driver is assigned one of the most important roles in the school system: transporting our students safely to school and then home. The school bus driver must observe constantly what is taking place outside and inside the school bus. Anticipating the movement of other vehicles and pedestrians, listening for sounds that may signal mechanical problems with the school bus, and protecting all passengers from danger caused by improper behavior are part of the school bus drivers’ daily responsibilities. As a trained professional, the school bus driver is the person in charge of the students he/she transports and is responsible for taking appropriate action to protect persons and property from injury and damage. Parents/legal guardians can assist the school bus driver by periodically reviewing with their children behavior and safety standards, by supporting the school bus driver when a child misbehaves, by helping keep the neighborhood safe for school buses, and by supervising children at school bus stops. Parents/legal guardians should take the time to check their children's clothing to make sure it is SAFE. Certain types of clothing can create a hazard as children get off the school bus. Especially dangerous are: long dangling jackets, sweatshirt drawstring, long backpack straps, long scarves, or other loose clothing. Such clothing can be caught in the school bus handrail, door, or other equipment as children get off the school bus. Students must be safety-conscious at all times and must conduct themselves in a manner that will minimize hazards. The following guidelines, if followed by everyone, will make the daily school bus ride both safe and enjoyable: 1. Remain at home when you or any member of your family has a contagious disease. 2. Leave home at a time appropriate for arriving no more than fifteen (15) minutes and no less

than ten (10) minutes before the scheduled pick-up time. 3. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the edge of the left

side of the street, facing on-coming traffic. 4. Proceed to the assigned school bus stop. 5. Stand off the road at least ten (10) feet when waiting for the school bus. 6. While at the school bus stop, do not play, run, or talk loudly. Conduct yourself in an orderly

manner, avoiding damage to private property and safeguarding against injury to yourself and others.

7. If necessary, wait across the street from the school bus stop, await the school bus drivers' signal before crossing, and cross only in front of the school bus.

8. Board the school bus only when the school bus driver is seated at the controls. 9. Board the school bus in single file and promptly proceed to the assigned seat. 10. Store band instruments and school bags under the seat or where designated by the school bus

driver, but never in the aisle, the entrance, or the exit. 11. Remain seated at all times when the school bus is in motion. This will minimize injury in

case of emergency stops or collisions. 12. Sit straight in your seat with both feet on the floor in front of your seat.

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13. Always keep the aisle clear. 14. Speak quietly and carry on normal conversations with the other passengers in your vicinity;

loud talking and shouting may distract the school bus driver. 15. Avoid unnecessary conversations with the school bus driver. 16. Abstain from eating, drinking, or smoking on the school bus. 17. Keep arms and head inside the school bus window at all times. 18. Refrain from using profanity. 19. Avoid littering at the school bus stop and/or in the school bus and never throw objects inside

or outside the school bus. 20. Respect pedestrians and other motorists at all times. 21. Report to the school bus driver as you leave the school bus any damage you notice, because

parents/legal guardians shall be required to pay for damages caused by students. 22. Avoid touching any mechanical controls, including entrance and emergency exit doors,

except in cases of emergency, and only then in accordance with emergency procedures practiced once each semester as explained by the school bus driver.

23. Never ask the school bus driver to permit you to get off at any stop other than your designated stop. (Note: Parents/legal guardians must send written requests in advance to the school principal, who then may authorize the school bus driver to pick up or discharge students at an alternate stop.)

24. Any student who must cross the street after exiting from the school bus should wait for the school bus driver to signal that it is safe to cross. The student should cross approximately ten (10) feet in front of the school bus, never behind it.

25. Students should go home immediately after reaching the "home school bus stop" location after school.

26. All pencils, pens, and/or any other sharp objects shall be stored in the student's books or school book bag while riding on the school bus.

27. Any student sustaining an injury while riding on the school bus should report this injury to the school bus driver immediately.

28. The following items are not allowed on the school bus: tobacco, alcohol, drugs, pets, glass objects (except eyeglasses), weapons of any kind, and objects too large to be held in the student's lap or placed under a seat.

29. Students with temporary disabilities or pregnant students must present an initial letter from the attending physician confirming the disability/condition and stating the student's physical capabilities and limitations as far as riding the school bus is concerned. A monthly report from the physician must be submitted certifying the student's ability to continue to ride on the school bus.

30. Report to the school bus driver anyone who is sleeping or is sick on the school bus. 31. Once the child has boarded the school bus and has left the school bus stop in the A.M., a

parent/legal guardian cannot remove the child from the school bus. (The parent/legal

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guardian must go to school to formally check the child out of school.) In the P.M., the parent/legal guardian must wait until the child reaches the regular school bus stop.

32. If a child is late and missed the school bus in the A.M. at the regular stop, the school bus driver will not allow the child to board the school bus at another school bus stop. (Parents/legal guardians should not chase or block the school bus with their vehicle or their body.) A parent/legal guardian must bring the child all the way to school.

33. If you have requested that your school bus driver deliver your child to a location other than the assigned stop in order for the child to go to a day care center, it is the parent’s/legal guardian’s responsibility to notify the school’s administrator if the day care center will not be able to accept the child that day.

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APPENDIX C: DICIPLINE PROCEDURES FOR STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES I. Overview of Procedural Safeguards

A. General. Disciplinary actions give students with disabilities extra legal protections when the discipline constitutes a change in placement. If a student violates the Student Code of Conduct, before consequences or punishment are imposed, the principal/designee must consider whether the student:

• Has an IDEA or Section 504 disability; or • Is a student who is “thought to have a disability.”

While all students may be disciplined, the placement of students with disabilities cannot be changed when the offense is directly related to his/her disability or when the IEP or Section 504 plan is not implemented, except in the case of emergency circumstances (drugs, weapons, significant bodily injury). See Section II for more information about emergency circumstances.

B. Determining Change in Placement. A change in placement is a legal term that applies to the situations described below.

1. More than 10 Consecutive Days of Suspension, i.e., Expulsion - Any suspension

that is for more than 10 consecutive days is considered to be a change in placement.

2. More than 10 Total Days of Suspension in One School Year, Option 1

a. A series of suspensions with days that total more than 10 total school days in a school year is a change in placement. The SPED Coordinator, with assistance and documentation from the Principal, monitors the number of days each student has been suspended. Students with disabilities who have not reached this 10-day threshold may be suspended under the procedures that apply to all students.

b. Suspensions that constitute a pattern in One School Year, Option 2 - A series of suspensions that constitute a pattern may be a change in placement. The SPED Coordinator, with assistance and documentation from the Principal, monitors the number of days each student has been suspended. Students with disabilities who have not reached this 10-day threshold may be suspended under the procedures that apply to all students.

3. Additional Considerations. The following considerations apply to in-school

suspension; a suspension or removal for a portion of the school day; and for suspensions from transportation.

a. In-school Intervention. An in-school intervention will not be considered as a suspension for the above purposes as long as a student is given the opportunity to continue to: appropriately participate in the general curriculum; receive IEP specified services; and participate with non-disabled children to the extent (s)he would have in the current placement.

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Any in-school suspension that does not meet this standard must be considered as a suspension for purposes of these procedures.

b. Suspension/Removal for Portion of School Day. Students sent home from school in the morning because of misconduct are considered to have a full-day suspension. Students sent home in the afternoon are considered to have a half-day suspension. These conditions apply unless the student’s BIP specifically calls for the student to receive a shortened school day when certain behaviors are exhibited.

Note: The Student Information System allows only the entry of suspension for a full day; half days are not permitted. Thus, there may be a difference between a student’s actual total number of suspension days and the total recorded on the System. The student’s “actual” full time equivalent days of suspension, however, are relevant to the application of these standards. Schools are strongly encouraged to enter suspension data in “real time.”

C. Determining Manifestation Determination & Services.

1. Manifestation Determination - Within 10 days of any decision resulting in a change of placement, the principal, parent, and members of the child’s IEP Team must meet and determine whether the student’s behavior is a manifestation of his/her disability using the Manifestation Determination form. The procedures below are used to make this determination.

2. Making the Decision

a. Review Relevant Information - The team participants review all relevant information in the student’s file, including the IEP. If the IEP was not implemented, the team documents why it was not implemented and whether the failure to implement the IEP impacted the student's behavior.

b. Behavioral Observations - The team also reviews documentation of staff observations regarding the student's behavior. This should include an analysis of the student’s behavior across settings and times throughout the school day.

c. Information from Parents - The team reviews any relevant information provided by the parents and collects new information when applicable.

d. Ask Two Questions to Determine Manifestation - The team must consider the two questions below to determine if a student’s behavior was manifested by his/her disability.

1) Relationship of Behavior to Misconduct. Was the conduct caused by or directly and substantially related to the student’s disability? Consider whether the behavior in question has been consistent and/or has an attenuated association with the disability:

i. Consistent Behavior. Behavior that has been displayed consistently or in patterns across settings and time may meet this standard.

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ii. Attenuated Association. Behavior that is not an attenuated association, such as low self-esteem, to the disability would not have a direct and substantial relationship to the student’s disability.

2) IEP Implementation. Was the conduct a direct result of the school’s failure to follow the student’s IEP? If so, the principal must ensure that immediate steps are taken so that the identified deficiencies are remedied.

D. Behavior Is Manifestation of Disability. If the relevant members of the IEP team answers yes to either question, then the student’s behavior is a manifestation of his/her disability. In this case:

1. Return to Placement. Unless the IEP team agrees to a change of placement as part of the modification of the BIP, the school must return the student to the placement from which (s)he was removed. Note: this provision does not apply to students involved with weapons, drugs or serious bodily injury. (See Section II.)

2. FBA & BIP. The IEP team must conduct or review a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and create a behavior intervention plan (BIP) addressing ways that the school can help the student improve specific behavioral issues with considerations of students disability. If the student already has a BIP, it must be reviewed and modified to address how the school can better assist the student with the conduct at issue. Note: If the FBA requires a new assessment of student behavior, parental consent is required.

E. Behavior is NOT Manifestation of Disability

1. Same Consequences. If the IEP team members agree that the student’s conduct was not a manifestation of his/her disability, then the student may be subject to the same consequences as all students.

Note: If a parent disagrees with the team’s decision that the behavior was not a manifestation of the student’s disability or with the interim alternative educational services or location, the parent may request an expedited due process hearing to challenge this finding. If the Hearing Officer agrees with the parent, the student will remain in the school where the offense was committed unless the parent and the school agree otherwise.

2. Required Services. A student with a disability who is removed from his/her current placement must receive the following services beginning on the 11th day of cumulative suspensions during the school year. The IEP team:

a. Identifies Services. Identifies and documents educational services the students will receive to enable the student to continue to participate in the general education curriculum, although in another setting (e.g., an interim alternative educational setting (IAES), etc.) and to progress toward meeting the goals set out in the student’s IEP; and

b. Develops/Reviews FBA/BIP Provides, as appropriate, an FBA and BIP services and modifications, which are designed to address the behavior

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violation so that it does not recur.

c. Considers Need for More Restrictive Services. School personnel may convene and modify the student’s IEP. School personnel may consider any unique circumstances on a case-by-case basis when determining whether a change in placement, consistent with the requirements of this section, is appropriate for a student with a disability who violates a code of student conduct.

II. Weapons, Drugs or Serious Bodily Injury: Emergency Procedures - In circumstances related to a student’s use of weapons, drugs or imposition of serious bodily injury, school officials may remove a student for 45 school days by following the procedures below. A. Criteria for Emergency Removal. 1. Weapons. A student carries a weapon to or possesses a weapon at school, on school premises, or to or at a school function under the school’s jurisdiction. A weapon is a device, instrument, material or substance animate or inanimate that is used for or is readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury (excluding pocket knife with a blade of less than 2.0 inches in length); firearms, including a starter gun; the frame or receiver of such a weapon; a muffler or silencer; any destructive device including any explosive incendiary or poison gas bombs, grenades, rockets, missiles and mines; does not include non-functioning antique firearms. 2. Drugs. A student knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs, or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance, while at school, on school premises, or at a school function under the school’s jurisdiction;

A controlled substance is a drug or other substance in the Federal Code that does not include a substance legally used and possessed under the supervision of a licensed health-care professional.

• Possession of alcohol and tobacco does not fall under “controlled substance.” Therefore, the principal cannot move a student to an IAES for possession of these items under this section. Instead, the removal is subject to the procedural safeguards applicable to other types of misconduct.

3. Serious Bodily Injury. A student inflicted serious bodily injury upon another person while at school, on school premises, or at a school function under the jurisdiction of the State or KDHSA.

Serious bodily injury involves substantial risk of death; extreme physical pain; protracted and obvious disfigurement; or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty.

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Note: To comply with the law, a 45 school day emergency removal for serious bodily injury must be extremely serious, i.e., requiring medical treatment.

B. Removal

1. General. The school may immediately remove the student for up to 45 school days to an IAES. Because drugs, weapons and serious bodily injury are so dangerous to a safe school climate, a school may remove a student under these circumstances for 45 school days regardless of whether the team believes that the behavior is a manifestation of the student’s disability.

The 45 school days do not include those days the school is not in session, e.g., Spring Break. The IEP team may specify a removal for fewer days than the maximum 45 days.

C. Action during Removal. During the 45 school day period, the school must convene a meeting to determine whether the student’s behavior is a manifestation of his/her disability. (See Section I.C. above for more information about the manifestation determination process.)

1. Behavior IS Manifestation of Disability

a. FBA/BIP. As discussed above, the IEP team must conduct or review an FBA and create a BIP addressing ways that the school can help the student with the conduct at issue. If the student already has a BIP, it must be reviewed and modified to address how the school can better assist the student with the conduct at issue. Note: If the FBA requires a new assessment of student behavior, parental consent is required.

b. Re-evaluation. The student may be referred for a re-evaluation.

c. More Intensive Services. The IEP team may meet to consider more intensive special education services upon the expiration of the 45 day IAES or sooner.

2. Behavior is NOT Manifestation of Disability

a. Disciplinary Hearing. If all team members determine that the conduct was not a manifestation of the student’s disability, then the 45 school day emergency placement may proceed to a disciplinary proceeding afforded to all students.

b. FBA/BIP. The student must receive, as appropriate, an FBA and BIP services and modifications, which are designed to address the behavior related to the disciplinary violation so that it does not recur.

III. Appeals

A. Reasons for Requesting an Expedited Due process Hearing

1. Parent Disagreement. Parents who disagree with the appropriateness of the alternative placement or remedial disciplinary setting or services may request an expedited due process hearing.

2. School Considers Student to be Dangerous. If KDHSA has documented reasons to believe that keeping the student in school is substantially likely to result in injury to

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the student or to others, the school should request an emergency hearing for the purpose of transferring the student to an IAES for up to 45 school days. Note: This standard is not as high as serious bodily injury; it does not allow for an immediate 45 school day removal.

B. Authority of Hearing Officer

1. A hearing officer may:

a. Return the student to school if the hearing officer determines that the removal did not comply with these procedures or that the student’s behavior was a manifestation of the student’s disability; or

b. Order a change of placement to an IAES for not more than 45 school days if maintaining the current placement of the student is substantially likely to result in injury to the student or to others.

2. KDHSA may repeat its request for an expedited hearing if it believes that returning the student to school is substantially likely to result in injury to the student or to others.

C. Expedited Due Process Hearing Procedures.

1. An expedited hearing must occur within 20 school days of the date the request is filed. The hearing officer must make a determination within 10 school days after the hearing. 2. Unless the parents and school personnel agree in writing to waive the resolution meeting or agree to mediate the dispute:

a. A resolution meeting must occur within seven days of receiving notice of the hearing request; and b. The hearing may proceed unless the matter has been resolved to the satisfaction of both parties within 15 days of receipt of the hearing request.

3. Evidence not disclosed to the other party three business days before the hearing is excluded, unless the parties agree otherwise. Expedited due process hearing decisions are appealable to state or federal court.

D. Placement during Appeal of Discipline Decision

1. Weapons, Drugs or Serious Bodily Injury. The student remains in the IAES pending the decision of the hearing officer or until the expiration of the 45-day or code violation time period (if less than 45 school days), whichever occurs first, unless the parent and school personnel agree otherwise. 2. Behavior Not Manifested by the Student’s Disability. The student remains in the IAES pending the decision of the hearing officer or until the expiration of the 45-day or code violation time period (if less than 45 school days), whichever occurs first, unless the

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parent and school personnel agree otherwise. 3. Behavior Is Manifested by Student’s Disability but Belief Behavior is Substantially Likely to Cause Injury. The student remains in the placement (s)he was in at the time of the behavior in question unless the parent and school personnel agree otherwise.

IV. Students without IEPs or Section 504 Plans “Deemed to Have a Disability” - In some cases, a student without a disability will be deemed to have a disability. The criteria for making this determination and the applicable procedures relevant to such a finding are discussed below. A. Knowledge of suspected disability (Thought to be a student with a disability) –

There are certain circumstances that would indicate a school had knowledge that a student might (or is thought to) have a disability prior to the violation of the disciplinary violation. The following three situations give rise to such legal evidence: 1. Evaluation Requested. The parent requested an evaluation. 2. Written Concern. The parent expressed concern in writing to the student’s teacher

or school administration about the student’s need for special education and related services.

3. Specific Concerns by Staff about Pattern of Behavior. The student’s teacher or other school staff told school supervisory personnel of specific concerns about the student’s pattern of behavior.

If any of the three factors above are present, then school officials consider disciplinary action as if the student has a disability.

B. NOT Deemed To Have Knowledge. This provision does not apply if:

1. Parent did not consent to an initial evaluation of the student 2. Parent refused special education and related services for the student or 3. The student was evaluated and was determined not to have disability.

If any of these three circumstances exist, the student may be subjected to the same disciplinary measures applied to those without disabilities engaging in similar behaviors. The US Department of Education’s comments to the IDEA states: a public agency will not be considered to have a basis of knowledge merely because a child receives services under the coordinated, early intervening services of the IDEA law UNLESS a parent or teacher of a child receiving early intervening services expresses a concern, in writing, to appropriate agency personnel that the child may need special education and related services.

C. School Personnel Have No Knowledge and Parent Subsequently Requests an

Evaluation - If the parent requests an evaluation for a suspected disability after the student is sent to an IAES, the school must conduct an expedited evaluation at parental request. However, the student remains in placement, including an IAES, during the

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evaluation. If the student is found to have a disability, an IEP is developed. The IEP team must then conduct a manifestation determination. If the behavior is manifested by the student’s disability, the team reconsiders the student’s placement in light of the new information

V. Referral to and Action by Law Enforcement and Judicial Authorities

A. Reporting Crimes. Nothing in this part prohibits school personnel from reporting a crime committed by a student with a disability to appropriate authorities or prevents State law enforcement and judicial authorities from exercising their responsibilities with regard to the application of Federal and State law to crimes committed by a student with a disability.

B. Transmittal of Records. School personnel reporting a crime committed by a student with a disability must ensure that copies of the special education and disciplinary records of the student are transmitted for consideration by the appropriate authorities to whom the agency reports the crime. Records must be transmitted only to the extent that the transmission is permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

VI. Application of Section 504 and ADA

Generally, students with disabilities eligible for services only under Section 504/ADA (i.e., need related and supplementary aids and services only) are entitled to the procedural safeguards specified in this section. An exception to this general rule applies to students with behavior that is not a manifestation of his/her disabilities. In this case, these students are entitled to those services normally available to nondisabled students who are suspended or removed pursuant to the KDHSA Student Handbook.

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APPENDIX D: ADDITIONAL BULLYING INFORMATION

Definition: “Bullying” means systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students or employees. Bullying is a behavior or pattern of behavior by a student, or a group of students, that is intended to harass, intimidate, ridicule, humiliate, or instill fear in another child or group of children. Bullying also includes unacceptable behavior identified in this policy that is electronically transmitted. Bullying behavior can be a threat of, or actual, physical harm or it can be verbal abuse of the child.

KDHSA is committed to taking a proactive stance to preventing bullying behavior whether it is face-to-face or in cyberspace. Awareness of bullying and how to prevent it will be addressed through our H.E.A.R.T. core values and the PBIS program. Community experts such as the FBI and local police department will help educate parents and students on the dangers of cyber-communications, cyber-bullying and cyber harassment. The school will address bullying behaviors through conflict resolution and restorative justice programs as well as through appropriate discipline consequences.

Bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn and the school’s ability to educate its students in a safe environment. Examples of bullying may include but are not limited to a pattern of behavior involving one or more of the following: • Sarcastic “remarks/compliments” about another student’s personal appearance, • Pointed questions intended to embarrass or humiliate, • Mocking, taunting, or belittling, • Non-verbal threats and/or intimidation such as “fronting” or “cheating” a person, • Demeaning humor relating to a student’s race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or personal characteristics/mannerisms, • Blackmail, extortion, demands for protection money or other involuntary donations or loans, • Blocking access to school property or facilities, • Deliberate physical contact or injury to person or property, • Stealing or hiding school belongings, • Threats of harm to student(s), possessions or others and/or, • Cyber-bullying

Bullying is conduct that meets all the following criteria: • Is directed at one or more pupils, • Substantially interferes with educational opportunities, benefits or programs of one or

more pupils, and • Adversely affects the ability of a pupil to participate in or benefit from the school’s

educational programs or activities because the conduct, as reasonably perceived by the pupil, is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive as to have this effect.

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Expectations of Conduct According to our HEART Tenets – display Tolerance to those who are the same as me and to those who are different from me. Demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate bullying is expected of all administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers. These individuals are expected to provide positive examples for student behavior. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner in keeping with their levels of development, maturity, and demonstrated capabilities with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of others. Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy will provide an atmosphere that encourages students to grow in self-discipline. The development of this atmosphere requires respect for self and others, as well as school and community property on the part of students, staff and community members. Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy believes that the best discipline is self-imposed, and that it is the responsibility of the staff to use disciplinary situations as opportunities for helping students learn to assume responsibility and the consequences of their behavior. Staff members shall apply practices designed to prevent bullying and encourage students’ abilities to develop self-discipline. Remedial Measures and Consequences Remedial measures shall be designed to correct the problem behavior, prevent another occurrence of bullying, and protect the victim of the act. Remedial measures will be applied in response to a credible report of bullying. Examples of Personal Remedial Measures include: • Temporary removal from the classroom or activity, • Individual counseling to assist the misbehaving student to find a better way to solve a problem or meet a goal, • Corrective instruction, • Parent conference, • Participation in a peer support group, • Restitution to the injured party, • Implementation of a behavioral management plan, with benchmarks that are closely monitored, and/or, • Referral to external therapy. Examples of Environmental Remedial Measures include: • School and community surveys to determine the conditions contributing to a bullying atmosphere, • Adoption of systemic bullying prevention programs, • Modifications of student schedules, • Adjustments in hallway traffic,

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• Targeted use of monitors (e.g., hallways, cafeteria, buses, locker rooms, restrooms), • Professional development programs for staff, and • Whole-class instruction on anti-bullying strategies. Corrective actions for a student who commits an act of bullying shall be unique to the individual incident and will vary in severity according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the student, and the student’s history of problem behaviors or pattern of bullying reports. Disciplinary consequences for bullying may, therefore, not necessarily conform to the “Infraction Consequences” for other Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 infractions. Each formal complaint of bullying will be dealt with individually. Consequences will be applied in response to a formal complaint of bullying that is substantiated. Remedial measures may also be applied in addition to disciplinary consequences. Examples of Disciplinary Consequences are: • Quiet Lunch • Recess Detention • Morning or After-school Detention • In-School Intervention • Out-of-school Suspension • Recommendation for an expulsion hearing, and/or • Legal action Complaints of Bullying, Investigation of Complaints, and Corrective Action Procedures: Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy requires the Principal or his/her designee to be responsible for receiving complaints alleging violation of this anti-bullying policy. All school employees are required to report alleged violations of this policy. All other members of the school community (students, parents, volunteers, and visitors) are encouraged to report any act that may be a violation of this policy.

Formal reports may be made by any member of the school community and are to be directed to the Principal. Formal complaints shall set forth the specific acts, conditions, or circumstances alleged to have occurred that may constitute bullying. A formal report that could result in disciplinary action may not be anonymous, but are confidential. All efforts will be made to increase the trust of the student complainants. Any adult staff member may draft a formal complaint based on a verbal complaint of a student complainant.

The School Counselor will refer incident reports of bullying as formal reports to the

Principal or his/her designee. Formal reports and the school’s response will be documented using the formal bullying report form.

Upon receipt of a formal report, the Principal or designee will serve as the investigating official. At this point, parents of the student complainant(s) and accused(s) students will be notified of the formal complaint.

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The investigating official shall write a written report including all relevant information (interviews, witnesses, etc.) and an opinion as to whether or not an incident or incidents did occur and qualifies as bullying. If a determination of bullying is reached, the investigating official will make a recommendation to the Principal of corrective action (remedial and/or disciplinary consequences). Designated members of the administrative team may also direct or implement remedial measures. The Principal will communicate in writing to the complainant and the accused bully within 5 school days of completion of the investigation, stating: • The findings of the investigation • Any corrective action planned by the school Corrective actions (remedial measures and/or disciplinary consequences) will be implemented as quickly as possible, unless the accused is appealing the disciplinary action (i.e., expulsion), and the school is barred from imposing the discipline until the appeal process is concluded. Additional Policy Provisions Students will annually be provided with age-appropriate information on the recognition and prevention of bullying. Students will annually be provided the procedures by which they may file an informal or formal complaint. School staff will annually be provided copies of this policy and procedures for recognition, prevention, and reporting of bullying. Parents will annually be provided copies of this policy and procedures for recognition, prevention and reporting of bullying. Both student complainants and student witnesses may have a parent or trusted adult with them, if requested, during any investigatory activities. Anti-retaliatory provisions will be fully implemented, to wit: An act of reprisal or retaliation will be considered bullying; a formal complaint will be initiated with all subsequent required actions (remedial measures and/or disciplinary consequences). Falsely accusing another of bullying will also be considered an act of bullying; an informal or formal complaint will be initiated with all subsequent required actions (remedial measures and/or disciplinary consequences). Since bystander support of bullying can support these behaviors, the school prohibits both active and passive support for acts of bullying. Students who actively or passively support acts of bullying may receive disciplinary sanction for a Class Two infraction, “encouraging others to violate school expectations.”

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The staff shall encourage students to support other students who walk away from these acts, constructively attempt to stop these events, or report them to an adult. The Principal or designee will conduct follow-up interviews with all confirmed victims of bullying to ensure the intimidating and/or harassing behavior has ceased.

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APPENDIX E: INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

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APPENDIX F: TRUANCY POLICY

Louisiana State Law mandates compulsory school attendance and students are expected to be in attendance every school day scheduled by KDHSA until their eighteenth (18th) birthday. Elementary students shall be in attendance a minimum of 167 days a school year. Truancy is defined as any student having either 5 unexcused tardies or 5 unexcused absences within a school semester per RS 17:233. The school year is split into 2 equal parts, each being a semester. Elementary students, Kindergarten through 8th grade, shall not exceed 10 days per year of absences or tardies. Consequences will be issued for tardies and absences. School hours begin at 8:10 am (PreK – 4th) and 8:20 am (5th – 9th); a child not with his/her class by 8:10 am (PreK – 4th) and 8:20 am (4th – 9th); is considered tardy. Dismissal is at 3:10 for PreK students without older siblings and 3:20 pm daily for Pre-K (with older siblings) – 4th Grades and 3:30 pm for 4th – 9th grades. A child checked out of school unexcused before dismissal is considered tardy. A student who is on campus but not with their class is considered tardy. Students with excessive absences will be encouraged to attend Saturday Academy. The only exception to the attendance regulation shall be extenuating circumstances that are verified by the Principal and School Counselor. Only the following shall be considered extenuating circumstances under which absences and tardies shall be exempt from provisions of compulsory attendance laws: 1. Personal illness (A parent is able to send a note for one day of absence. Two or more days will require a doctor’s note.) 2. Death in family (not to exceed 3 days) 3. Natural catastrophe and/or disaster 4. Participation in school-approved activity that necessitates the student being away from school (These activities will be reviewed by personnel for educational appropriateness) 5. Absence for the observance of recognized holidays of the child’s own faith 6. Any of the extenuating circumstances listed below:

• Extended personal illness of a child whose attendance in school would danger his/her own health or that of his/her classmates, as verified by a physician, dentist, or nurse practitioner licensed to practice in Louisiana

• Attendance (i.e. School Counselor) in consultation with the principal or his/her designee

• Doctor or dental appointments are not excused for a full day when the appointment is scheduled for the early morning or late afternoon.

For any other extenuating circumstances, parents must make a formal appeal in accordance with the due process procedures established by the school system. All excuses, including original doctor/dentist verification, for a student’s absence or tardy must be presented to the school within five (5) days of the student’s return to school to be considered for extenuating circumstances. Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 17: Education §221. School attendance; compulsory ages; duty of parents; excessive absences

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A. (1) Every parent, tutor, or other person residing within the state of Louisiana having control or charge of any child from that child's seventh birthday until his eighteenth birthday shall send such child to a public or private day school, unless the child graduates from high school prior to his eighteenth birthday. Any child below the age of seven who legally enrolls in school shall also be subject to the provisions of this Subpart. Every parent, tutor, or other person responsible for sending a child to a public or private day school under provisions of this Subpart shall also assure the attendance of such child in regularly assigned classes during regular school hours established by the school board and shall assure that such child is not habitually tardy from school pursuant to the provisions of R.S. 17:233. (2) Whoever violates the provisions of this Subsection...shall be fined not more than two hundred and fifty dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both. The court shall impose a minimum condition of probation which may include that the parent, tutor, or other person having control or charge of the child participate in forty hours of school or community service activities, or a combination of forty hours of school or community service and attendance in parenting classes or family counseling sessions or programs approved by the court having jurisdiction, as applicable, or the suspension of any state-issued recreational license. (3) Whoever violates any other provision of this Subpart or any other provision of law which provides for the penalty provided for in R.S. 17:221 shall be fined not more than fifteen dollars, and, for such violations, each day the violation continues shall constitute a separate offense. (4) Visiting teachers or supervisors of child welfare and attendance, with the approval of the parish or city superintendents of schools, shall file proceedings in court to enforce the provisions of this Subpart. §233. Cases of habitual absence or tardiness referred to juvenile or family court A. Any student who is a juvenile and who is habitually absent from school or is habitually tardy shall be reported by visiting teachers and supervisors of child welfare and attendance to the family or juvenile court of the parish or city as a truant child, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 of Title VII of the Louisiana Children's Code relative to families in need of services, there to be dealt with in such manner as the court may determine, either by placing the truant in a home or in a public or private institution where school may be provided for the child, or otherwise. B. (1) (a) A student shall be considered habitually absent or habitually tardy when either condition continues to exist after all reasonable efforts by any school personnel, truancy officer, or other law enforcement personnel have failed to correct the condition after the fifth unexcused absence or fifth unexcused occurrence of being tardy within any school semester.

(b) The parent or legal guardian of a student shall enforce the attendance of the student at the school to which the student is assigned.

(c) The principal of the school, or his designee, shall notify the parent or legal guardian in writing upon a student's third unexcused absence or unexcused occurrence of being tardy, and shall hold a conference with such student's parent or legal guardian. The student's parent or legal guardian shall sign a receipt for such notification. (d) The parent or legal guardian of any student in kindergarten through grade eight who is considered habitually absent or habitually tardy pursuant to the provisions of this Section

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shall be in violation of the provisions of Subparagraph (b) of this Paragraph and shall be punished as follows:

(i) A first offense shall be punishable by a fine of not more than fifty dollars or the performance of not less than twenty-five hours of community service. (ii) Any subsequent offense shall be punishable in accordance with R.S. 17:221(A)(2). (iii) For purposes of this Subparagraph, an offense means a violation of this Subsection by the parent or legal guardian of a child who is habitually absent or habitually tardy; multiple offenses may result from violations involving different habitually absent or tardy children of that parent or legal guardian. (iv) In any case where the child is the subject of a court ordered custody or visitation plan, the parent or legal guardian who is lawfully exercising actual physical custody or visitation of the child shall be responsible for the child's attendance at school on those days and shall be solely responsible for any absence or tardiness of the child on such days. The parent or legal guardian not exercising actual physical custody or visitation on the day of the absence or tardiness shall not be in violation of this Section.

D. For purposes of this Section, the term "tardy" shall include but not be limited to leaving or checking out of school unexcused prior to the regularly scheduled dismissal time at the end of the school day but shall not include reporting late to class when transferring from one class to another during the school day. Acts 1990, No. 158, §2, eff. July 1, 1990; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 103, §1, eff. July 7, 1994; Acts 2008, No. 688, §1, June 1, 2009; Acts 2009, No. 224, §6, eff. June 1, 2009; Acts 2009, No. 305, §1.www.legis.state.la.us

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APPENDIX G: PROMOTIONAL POLICIES FROM JPPSS

Kindergarten Recommendation for retention in Kindergarten may be made by the Response to Intervention (RTI) Support Team, the Administration Team, or by parent/guardian request to the principal. Grades 1 and 2 To be promoted to the next grade, a student must achieve the minimum course requirements as reflected by passing grades in both Reading and Mathematics. Grade 3 To be promoted to the next grade, a student must achieve the minimum course requirements as reflected by passing grades in each of the three subjects of Reading, Writing Workshop/English, and Mathematics. Grade 4 1. To be promoted to the next grade, without attending summer school, a student must have a passing final average in all five (5) academic subjects of Reading, Writing Workshop/English, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies. 2. A student who fails one or two promotional subjects may be promoted to the next grade if he/she attends a state approved summer school and passes the subjects failed. 3. A student who fails three (3) or more promotional subjects is ineligible for promotion to the next grade by attending a state approved summer school. 4. As of the time of publication for this document a final decision has not been made by the LDOE regarding high stakes testing and the title and composition (grades 3-8) of the standardized tests to be given at the end of the 2016-17 school year. Once a final decision is made by the LDOE, the superintendent will make a recommendation regarding promotional policies and seek board approval. Grade 5 1. To be promoted to the next grade, without attending summer school, a student must pass all five (5) promotional subjects of Reading, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. 2. A student who fails one or two promotional subjects may be promoted to the next grade if he/she attends a state approved summer school and passes the subjects failed. 3. A student who fails three (3) or more promotional subjects is ineligible for promotion to the next grade by attending a state approved summer school. Grades 6 and 7 a. To be promoted to the next grade, a student must pass the five academic subjects of Reading, English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Passing grades in these subjects reflect proficiency in grade appropriate skills.

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b. If a sixth or seventh grader passes five of six subjects the student will be allowed to progress in the course sequence in the five subjects passed but not in the subject failed. c. A student who takes five subjects in one grade level and one subject in a lower grade level will be assigned to the higher grade level. d. A student who has fallen behind in a course sequence must eventually attend summer school to complete middle school course requirements before attending high school. e. With the prior approval of the principal, a student who fails one (l) or two (2) subjects may be considered for promotion by attending and passing the course(s) at a state approved summer school. f. Students will be eligible during the school year tutorial remediation in grade 8 if they scored APPROACHING BASIC or UNSATISFACTORY on iLEAP in grade 7 or if they have been retained in grade 8, if they scored APPROACHING BASIC or UNSATISFACTORY on LEAP. g. A student who fails three (3) promotional subjects may attend a state approved summer school for two (2) subjects. If the student passes the two (2) subjects in summer school the district will follow the guidelines stated in 6 b and c. h. If a student fails 6th grade twice or 7th grade twice and has received appropriate assistance through compensatory programs, the student will be referred to the A/BIT for appropriate remediation. i. If a student in 6th or 7th grade is two or more years behind in grade level placement, an academic contract may be offered to the student to recover one of those years. Grade 8 a. To be promoted to the 9th grade without attending summer school, a student must have a final passing average in the subjects of Reading, English, Mathematics, Science, physical education and Social Studies. b. A student who does not pass all six (6) subjects may be promoted to the 9th grade if he/she failed two (2) subjects, attends a state approved summer school, and passes the subject(s) failed. c. A student who fails three (3) or more subjects is ineligible to attend summer school for promotion to the next grade but may attend summer school for two of the failed subjects. d. As of the time of publication for this document a final decision has not been made by the LDOE regarding high stakes testing and the title and composition (grades 3-8) of the standardized tests to be given at the end of the 2016-17 school year. Once a final decision is made by the LDOE, the superintendent will make a recommendation regarding promotional policies and seek board approval. Grade 9 Promotion and retention for 9th – 12th grade are based on the accumulation of Carnegie Units. Click here to be directed to the JPPSSwritten procedures and policies for students andparents.

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APPENDIX H: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Behavior Contract: An agreement between the child and teacher and, often, the student’s parent/guardian. The behavior contract is a written agreement that indicates how the student will behave, the appropriate consequence should the student not behave according to the contract and the reinforcement(s) to be utilized for successful compliance. The behavior contract is intended to provide the student with structure and self-management. Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP): A plan that is the result of a Functional Behavioral Analysis (FBA). Behavior intervention plans are written documents that describe the behavior to be changed, strategies or interventions implemented to address the target behavior. Behavior intervention plans are developed by either the classroom teacher or a team of school personnel. Behavior intervention plans assist the teacher in proactively and effectively dealing with behavior. BIPs aid in communicating behavioral expectations to individual students or an entire classroom. BIPs also communicate the consequences of achieving the goal or objective and helps teachers remain consistent. The use of a behavior intervention plan assists in establishing the expectations of the teacher. In addition, BIPs permit frequent feedback regarding the effectiveness of the management strategies being employed, assist in documentation of student or class progress and provide useful guidelines for interacting with students. Bullying: The act of intentionally causing harm to others through verbal or physical harassment. Charter Schools: Nonsectarian public schools of choice. The "charter" establishing each such school is a performance contract detailing the school's mission, program, goals, students served, methods of assessment, and ways to measure success. Charter schools must follow the state laws regarding academic outcomes, financial, legal, and contractual matters. In Louisiana there are 5 types of charter schools. KDHSA is a Type I, which is authorized by Jefferson Parish Public School System. Check-In/Check-Out (CICO): A positive behavioral support tool for students who demonstrate moderate behavior problems. It is intended to provide frequent reinforcement for compliance with behavioral goals. Each of the behavioral goals should be defined in clear behavioral terms. The goals are set and monitored by the CICO coordinator (e.g., social worker, counselor) with the support of the School Building Level Committee (SBLC). The CICO coordinator meets twice daily with the student to individually provide social skills training related to each of the designated behavioral goals. The student will review the goals each morning with the CICO coordinator in order to completely understand the behavioral expectations. Corrective Strategies: Also known as alternatives to suspension/expulsion, Corrective Strategies may include, but are not limited to:

• Contact and/or conference with parent/guardian • Behavior contracts • Check-in/Check-out (CICO) • Home/School communication system

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• Reflective activity (“Think About It” Sheets, essays) • Loss of privilege • In-school Intervention • Referral to the school counselor • Referral to the School Building Level Committee • Supervised work assignment • Suspension

Dangerous Weapon: 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. Detention: A form of discipline used in schools in which a student is required to spend extra time in school. A detention usually takes place during a period after the end of the regular school day. However, detention may take place at other times, such as before the school day, on the weekend (traditionally known as Saturday School) and during breaks in the school day, such as lunch. Detention is usually considered one of the milder forms of disciplinary action available to a school. Discipline: the steps or actions that teachers, administrators, support staff, parents and students follow to enhance student academic and social success. Due Process Hearing: a formal hearing to resolve disputes between parents and schools. Exceptionality: a child’s special learning need. There are several types of exceptionalities, including Autism/Asperger’s Syndrome, Emotional Disturbance, Gifted and Talented, Learning Disabilities and Mental Retardation. Identifying a student’s exceptionality is the first step in determining the appropriate academic classroom placement for that student. Expulsion: Any denial of school attendance for the remainder of the school year, for a time designated during the current or next school year or permanently. Extortion: The communication of threats to another in order to obtain money, property or services. Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE): The standard of education that schools must provide to children with special needs or exceptionalities. This means that the school must help to create a specific plan to address the child’s learning needs, place them in the educational setting appropriate for their needs, and deliver the special education and related services required for the child to learn. FAPE differs for each student because each student has unique needs. FAPE ensures that all students with disabilities receive an appropriate public education at no expense to the family.

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Functional Behavioral Analysis (FBA): A process of examining the function that a particular behavior serves for a student that includes an analysis of the frequency, intensity and duration of a behavior. The end result of the FBA is a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP), which is a plan to implement intervention for specific behaviors as identified. Harassment: Verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual because of his/her race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, marital status, gender, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law. Harassment is prohibited in all relationships at the school. Horseplay: Rowdy, rough or boisterous play. Home-School Communication System: Communication with families about school programs and student progress through effective school-to-home and home-to-school communications. In-school Intervention: The temporary removal of a student from the regular school classes and the placement of a student in an approved “time-out” program. Instructional Supports: Changes that teachers can make in the classroom to help students learn more efficiently. These changes may include modifications to the classroom environment or method of teaching, as well as finding different methods to assist the student in expressing what he or she has learned. The teacher may also arrange for extra assistance from other school professionals. Local Education Agency (LEA): A public board of education or other public authority within a state that maintains administrative control of public elementary or secondary schools in a city, county, township, school district or other political sub-division. Kenner Discovery’s LEA is the Jefferson Parish School Board. No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB): A federal law that aims to improve the performance of United States primary and secondary schools by increasing the standards of accountability for states, school districts and schools, as well as providing parents more flexibility in choosing which schools their children will attend. Out-of-School Suspension: The temporary removal of a student from school. Suspensions are limited in time and the student should be able to return to school after the term of suspension is completed. During the suspension period, students are not permitted to visit their school campus. Parent Liaison: A school employee who promotes parental involvement, strengthens the home-to-school connection, and acts as a resource for families needing assistance with home-school communication, school supplies, uniforms, and other school essentials. Positive Behavioral Intervention Support (PBIS): An approach to eliminate challenging behaviors and replace them with proactive social skills. Use of PBIS is a best practice that decreases the need for more intrusive or aversive interventions (i.e., punishment or suspension)

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and can lead to both systemic as well as individualized change. Reflective Activity: An assignment designed to give the student an opportunity to think critically about an instance in which he/she broke a rule. The assignment should guide the student towards determining an appropriate behavior for the given situation instead of the behavior that broke a school rule. Response to Intervention Team (RTI): exists for the purpose of reviewing student progress and suggests strategies for those who need assistance. The team may consist of the Teacher, Parents, the Special Education Coordinator, the School Counselor, the Principal or Assistant Principal and other personnel as needed (such as a student’s advisor, speech-language pathologist, school nurse, etc.) and varies according to specific needs of the student. Sexual Assault: Any physical contact of a sexual nature without voluntary consent. State Education Agency (SEA): The agency primarily responsible for the supervision of the state’s public elementary and secondary schools. In Louisiana, the SEA Is the Louisiana Department of Education. Suspension: See listings for In-School Suspension and Out-of-School Suspension. Supervised Work Assignment: a service assignment performed as a consequence for behavior infractions. All supervised work assignments must be approved by parents/guardians prior to implementation. Vandalism: the conspicuous defacement or destruction of a structure, a symbol or anything else that goes against the will of the owner/governing body and usually constitutes a crime. 504 Plan: A plan that outlines the services needed by a student that has been identified as 504 eligible and protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Essentially, Section 504 covers students who have been defined as having any physical or mental impairment that interferes with any major life activities (learning, walking, talking, etc.). These students may or may not fall under the protection of Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act - 2004.

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NOTES:

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