Revised 2024-2025 Student and Family Handbook _8_.pdf

CIVICA Academy 2024-2025 Family & Student Handbook *Subject to Change Board Approved 7/25/24 Table of Contents Welcome 5 Charter Information 6 Charter...

CIVICA Academy 2024-2025 Family & Student Handbook *Subject to Change Board Approved 7/25/24 Table of Contents Welcome 5 Charter Information 6 Charter School Information 6 Governing Board Members 6 Leadership Team 6 About Us 7 Mission 7 Vision 7 Educational Philosophy 7 General Information 8 School Office Hours 8 School Records 8 Infinite Campus 9 Infinite Campus - Student Fee Accounts 9 General Fees 9 Lunch Fees 9 Account Discrepancies 9 Past Due Accounts 10 Delinquent Accounts 10 Contact for Fee Accounts 10 Data Days/Exam Half-Days - Early Dismissal 10 School Closings and Delays 10 Lost and Found 11 School Parties & Gifts 11 School Safety and Security 12 Important Notice 12 Emergency Operations Plan 12 Visitors 12 Classroom Observations 13 Emergency Operations Plan 13 Incidents On or Near School Campus 13 Parent Crisis Notification Letter 13 Before a Crisis 14 During a Crisis 14 Reunification 14 Health Office Policies and Procedures 16 Authorization for Medication 16 Immunization Policy 16 Accidents and Illnesses 16 Independently Contracted Services 17 General Arrival and Dismissal 18 Arrival Procedures 18 Dismissal Procedures 18 Waiting Near Campus 18 1  Walking or Biking off Campus 19 Carloop 19 CubCare Program 21 CubCare AM/PM 21 Athletics Program 22 School Lunch 23 Free and Reduced Lunch Program 23 School Wellness Policy 23 Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards for all Foods Sold in Schools 23 Fundraising 24 Academics 26 School Curriculum 26 Classroom Placement 26 Textbook/Agendas/Technology 26 Field Trips 26 Field Trip Chaperones 27 Grading and Reporting Student Progress 27 Academic Grades 27 Elementary School Grading Scales in Infinite Campus 29 Middle School Grading Scales in Infinite Campus 30 Grading Categories and Weights in Infinite Campus 30 High School Grading Scales in Infinite Campus 31 Grading Categories and Weights in Infinite Campus 31 Semester Exams 32 Semester Exam Make-Up Policy 32 Grade Reporting 32 Grades K-5 Reporting 32 Grades 6-12 Reporting 32 Late Work 33 Academic Support 33 Assessments 33 Retention Policy 34 Credit Requirements 34 Middle School Credit Requirements 34 Middle School Course of Action for Credit Deficient Students 35 High School Course of Action for Credit Deficient Students 35 Attendance Policy 38 General Policy 38 Elementary Attendance Policy 39 Elementary Excessive Absences (K-5th) 39 Secondary Attendance Policy 40 Secondary Excessive Absenteeism, Denial of Credit; Retention (6th-10th) 41 New Secondary Students 43 Tardy Progressive Discipline for K-10 Students 43 Truancy 43 2  Course Make-up for Absences 44 Chronic Absenteeism 44 Pre-Arranged Absences 44 Unexcused Absences 44 Excused School Absence 44 Student Attendance Reporting 45 Tardies 45 Withdrawals 46 Student Information 46 Parent to School Communication 46 Communicating Parent Concerns/Conflicts 46 Immediate Parent Notification 47 Code of Honor 47 Technology 48 School Media Use 48 Internet and Media Use Policy 48 Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Rules 49 Consequences for Violating BYOD Rules 50 Personal Devices on Campus Policy 50 Internet and Appropriate Use of Computers 50 Uniform Policy 51 Dress Code Guidelines 51 Uniform Requirements 54 Free Dress Policy 55 Student Code of Conduct 56 Expectations of behavior apply to any student 56 NRS Statutes Relating to Discipline & Definitions 56 NRS 388.122 “Bullying” defined 57 NRS 388.125 “Harassment” Defined 58 Discrimination 59 Sexual Harassment 59 Retaliation 59 Restorative Justice 59 Infraction Consequences 60 Minor Classroom Disruption 60 Major Classroom Disruption 61 Types of Interventions/Disciplinary Actions 61 Offenses Warranting Law Enforcement Notification 61 RPC(Required parent conference) 63 Suspensions 63 Types of Suspensions 63 General Progression of Administrative Response for Offenses Warranting Suspension 64 Offenses Warranting Suspension 64 Special Conditions of Suspension 66 Immediate Removal from School 66 3  Habitual Suspensions 67 Expulsion and Long-term Suspension 67 State-Mandated Suspensions 67 State-Mandated Expulsion - Permanent 68 Expulsion and Long-term Suspension Hearings 68 Re-Admittance Into School 68 Parent Commitment 69 Volunteer Hours 69 Procedures for Volunteering on Campus 69 Regular Volunteering 69 Parent Acknowledgement of Handbook 71 4  Welcome Welcome to CIVICA! As the proud principal, I am honored to lead a community that is determined to develop the next generation of civic leaders. CIVICA’s three cornerstone principles of honor, respect, and loyalty align with my core beliefs that each student has unique strengths and talents to be nurtured. I am passionate about fostering an inclusive environment where every student and staff member feels safe and respected. Together with our dedicated staff, engaged parents, and enthusiastic students, we strive to create a vibrant learning community. We are fortunate to have a supportive board and guidance from our founding network who have entrusted me to fulfill the vision of bringing a quality experience to your children’s education. I invite you to explore our website to discover the rich array of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and supportive resources that will lead us to success. Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education; we look forward to partnering with you on this incredible journey. I encourage parents to be actively involved in their child’s progress, homework, and classroom activities. Progress: CIVICA Academy utilizes Infinite Campus for parents to check on student progress in real time. Using Infinite Campus gives you the ability to know how your child did on an assignment/test, and his/her overall grade in any subject. Classroom Activities/Volunteering: I encourage you to volunteer in your child’s classroom. Teachers request the help of parent volunteers to prepare materials, work with students, chaperone field trips, and help with class events. Check with your child’s teacher(s) for a variety of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers do need to be fingerprinted and background checked, so please connect with our front office staff for more support regarding how you can get plugged into CIVICA Academy! Throughout the year, the administration will communicate with families weekly about upcoming events and activities. Information will be shared through our school website at www.civicanv.org, our school’s Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram page. I also encourage you to communicate with me via email, face-to-face when on campus, or by scheduling an appointment. Please be sure to include your name and the scholar you are calling about. I value your input and want to hear from you! We are partners in your child’s education! Finally, as a staff, we believe students will succeed as we establish, communicate, and maintain high expectations. Higher expectations bring higher achievement. With this philosophy in mind, we have established “School-wide Expectations” to build a safe, warm and inviting learning environment. Please review the CIVCA Pledge for our pillars of leadership. I will honor this institution and the people who work on my behalf. I will respect myself and my peers in every interaction. My actions will demonstrate my loyalty to this family and the values we hold dear. We are CIVICA. We are excited and thankful that your child will be attending CIVICA Career & Collegiate Academy. The staff and I will go out of our way to make each child feel safe, welcome, and excited about learning. We are proud of our educational program and look forward to partnering with you to provide a world class education! Respectfully, Richard Santigate Principal, CIVICA Academy [email protected] 5  Charter Information Charter School Information As defined by the National Alliance of Public Charter Schools (www.publiccharters.org), Charter schools are independent public schools allowed freedom to be more innovative, while being held accountable for improved student achievement. Charter schools are non-profit, self-managed entities that enroll public school students. They are approved and monitored by the Nevada State Charter Authority; yet, they run independently of one another. Charter schools are funded by state and local monies and are open to any student residing in Nevada who would otherwise qualify to attend a regular public school in the state of Nevada. Charter school students are public school students, subject to all applicable policies. Charter schools foster a partnership between parents, teachers, and students and create an environment in which parents can be more involved, teachers are given the freedom to be innovative and students are provided the structure they need to learn, with all three held accountable for improved student achievement. CIVICA Academy is sponsored by the State of Nevada Charter Authority, not the Clark County School District. Governing Board Members JC Flowers, Chairperson ​[email protected] Alex Prieto, Vice-Chairperson Jessica Scobell, Member [email protected] [email protected] David Salmon, Treasurer Roger Barnes, Member [email protected] [email protected] Robert Eliason, Member Sherrie Royster, Member [email protected] [email protected] Procedures for adding items to the board meeting agenda and filing complaints: Board meeting schedules are posted outside of the main office. Items may be added to the board meeting agenda by contacting Annette Christensen ([email protected]) at least 10 days prior to a scheduled board meeting. Complaints may be submitted to site administration. Leadership Team Principal Richard Santigate [email protected] Vice Principal Special Education Instructional Facilitator Instructional Coach Maria Montero Amber Athey Cameron Durieux [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Supplemental Title I Administrator/AP Student Success Coordinator Instructional Coach Karen Tanaka Shirley Sase Jamie Herod [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Assistant Principal Student Success Coordinator Instructional Coach Colin Purcell Pernell Graham Shannon Johnson [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Associate Administrator EL Coordinator Instructional Coach Amber Lane Vivian Tapia Nicole Thompson [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Associate Administrator Family/Community Involvement Coordinator School Counselor Natalia Nival Ejona Lindsay Julie Breverman [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Office Manager Safe School Professional School Counselor Olivia Rivera Olivia Rynearson Steven Gehring [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 6  About Us Mission The vision of CIVICA Career & Collegiate Academy is to provide a high quality, rigorous, and career-oriented curriculum that will prepare students for successful progression into post-secondary education and productive employment within a multilingual work environment. Vision Committed to setting an environment that strives for academic achievement, develops character, and maintains the goal of preparing students to serve and give back to their community in the field of public service. Educational Philosophy The School's educational program is modeled after specific innovative learning methods and strategies that have proven successful in raising student learning and achievement. These include but are not limited to: A standards-based curriculum based on Common Core Standards for Learning. A thematic approach to integrate core areas of study such as mathematics, reading, language arts, writing, science, and social studies. Appropriate assessments for learning (screening, progress monitoring, and diagnostic). Career and Technical Education programs (Officially in High School). Data-driven, high-quality differentiated instruction. Dual Enrollment courses for college credit (Starting in 11th grade). Supplemental programs for student advancement and remediation. Support for teachers and ongoing professional development for advancing technology and other 21st century resources. Research-based instructional practices (e.g., Marzano's High Yield Teaching Strategies and Coalition of Essential Schools Principles). Weekly grade level, monthly staff meetings, and ongoing professional development. Tutoring for remediation and acceleration. Targeted interventions for students performing below grade level. Core Values & Leadership Initiative At CIVICA Academy, we are committed to teaching students 21st century leadership and life skills to create a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader. Content from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Steven Covey, is a key component of our school-wide leadership initiatives. The 7 Habits is a synthesis of universal, timeless principles of personal and interpersonal effectiveness, such as responsibility, vision, integrity, teamwork, collaboration and renewal, which are common to all people and cultures. At CIVICA Academy, we recognize and celebrate that every child is capable of being a leader. 7  General Information School Office Hours 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Student Instructional Day Grades K-5 7:50 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Grades 6-10 7:30 a.m.-2:40 p.m. Carloop Times (Dropoff) 7:30 a.m.- 7:50 a.m. 8:00 a.m. CARLOOP & Gates CLOSE. 2:00 p.m. Front office closes for student early pick up. Families with appointments will need to provide documentation to the front office. Carloop Times (Pickup) 2:40 p.m.-2:45 p.m. Secondary Walk-Offs (6th-10th grade students with NO Elementary siblings). 2:45 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Carloop (6th-10th grade students WITH and WITHOUT K-5 siblings. Families must have carloop tags. 3:00 p.m.-3:25 p.m. Elementary & Secondary Walk-Offs (6th-10th grade students picking up elementary siblings, as well as K-5th grade students.) *Please note that students in grades K,1,2,3 MUST be accompanied by an older sibling, or picked up by an adult. 3:00 p.m.-3:25 p.m. Elementary Students (K-5th) & Secondary Students (6th-10th) with elementary siblings Carloop 3:26 p.m Students who are not picked up will be sent to PM CubCare and the registration fee and daily fee will be applied to your Infinite Campus account. *Before and After School Care available for a nominal fee through the CubCare Program See page 19. To ensure the safety of our students, we ask that parents follow our designated traffic pattern of entering and exiting for dropping off their children before school and picking them up after school. All traffic is one way only at drop-off and pick-up times please keep the safety of all children first and foremost in your mind at these busy times of day. School Records Student records may be requested by the parent/guardian only. Only the legal parent/guardians may request to review or change the records of a student. Legal guardianship shall be determined by the student’s birth certificate, unless the school has been provided with a court ordered custody agreement, adoption certificate, or other legally binding documentation. Student records will not be released if the student has unpaid fees associated with their account, until their account is brought up-to-date. 8 Infinite Campus Infinite Campus will be your insight into your child’s grades, upcoming assignments, and attendance. Please monitor this closely. Also, in order to pay school related fees (CubCare, sports, clubs, field trips, lunch, etc.) you will need to access Infinite Campus. If you have had an Infinite Campus account with another school you will need to create a new Parent Portal account. The link to the CIVICA version of Infinite Campus is on the homepage of our website. Additional information regarding New Account set-up, Password Reset, etc., may be found by visiting the General Info tab > Parent/Guardian Infinite Campus Help. The primary email address on file with the school is not permitted to opt-out of Infinite Campus contact for Emergencies, Attendance, Behavior, General, Food Service, Priority, or Teacher messages. Our registrar and front desk receptionist will be able to assist you with this in person. You will also be able to learn how to do this at Open House. Infinite Campus - Student Fee Accounts General Fees Fees will be updated on Infinite Campus for your continual review and payment. The school will also send a reminder email through Infinite Campus detailing the current charges on the account, and a letter will go home to the family. Fees that are not paid on time will result in your child not being able to participate in CubCare, athletics, field trips, extracurricular activities, etc. We cannot waive or reduce athletic or care fees for any reason. Failure to pay outstanding fees will result in the loss and/or suspension of extra-curricular activity privileges which includes field trips, CubCare Before/After-school programs, and participation in sports for all members of the household. Fees may include but shall not be limited to lost books, late library fees, lunch accounts, CubCare fees, Before/Aftercare fees, agenda fees, field trip fees, technology fees, and any and all fees which may accrue in the normal course of the school year. *All household accounts must have a zero balance one week prior to attending a field trip. Lunch Fees At CIVICA Academy, ALL students will receive FREE breakfast and lunch during the 2024-2025 school year. Normally, when applicable, the responsibility for meal payments to the campus belongs to the parent/guardian. Account Discrepancies We will always try our best to assure that accounts are accurate. Please check your account often for any discrepancies and contact the appropriate person (listed below) for a review of the charge. A review of a charge must be requested within two weeks of the balance posting to ensure a proper review. Any requests made after two weeks of the balance posting cannot be reviewed and will remain on the account. If it is determined that an error was made, a refund will be issued within 10 business days. 9 Infinite Campus Fees contact information: [email protected] Past Due Accounts All accounts must remain current. Any account consisting of any past due fees is considered in “Past Due” status. This will result in the loss of participation in extracurricular activities including, but not limited to, extra-curricular activity privileges which include field trips, CubCare Before/After-school programs, and participation in sports for all members of the household. Delinquent Accounts All accounts must remain current. Any account consisting of past due fees exceeding 30 days will be considered in “Delinquent” status. This will result in a discontinuation of all extra services provided by the school including, but not limited to, extra-curricular activity privileges which include field trips, CubCare Before/After-school programs, and participation in sports and may affect all members of the household. If a student is remaining on campus and has been removed from the aftercare program due to a delinquent account, the school will immediately initiate calling local authorities to oversee the care and welfare of the child. Contact for Fee Accounts -K-10 General Fees: Laura Doroteo:[email protected] -K-10 CubCare Fees: Margie Stewart: [email protected] -K-10 Trouble Logging In:Cris Salas:[email protected] Data Days/Exam Half-Days - Early Dismissal There typically are monthly Data Days at CIVICA NV Academy to monitor, report, and discuss student achievement. As a school, we monitor and track student progress, especially the progress of our struggling students, to help increase school wide student achievement. We meet school-wide and teachers discuss struggling students at each grade level. Grade levels discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each student. Discussions are based solely on student achievement and strategies for improvement. Teachers present data on each student and offer suggestions, materials, websites, and activities that will help students increase their achievement. Data Days are very beneficial to the staff and students. It is truly a collaborative, school wide effort to monitor and track student achievement. The Data Days are half days and students will attend school from: 8:00 a.m. – 11:40 a.m. CubCare is NOT available on Data Days. Please plan accordingly. School Closings and Delays Inclement weather and/or unexpected community incidents may require CIVICA Academy to cancel school, open late or close early. The following action plan will be followed: The school’s Crisis Response Team (CRT) will monitor and manage the situation. 10  Announcements will be posted on the school website. Parents will be notified via phone, email, and/or Infinite Campus. If classes are canceled or dismissed early, all athletic and extracurricular events will be canceled. CubCare before/after-school programs will operate from an early dismissal to the regular closing time if applicable. NO athletic, extracurricular events, or before/after-school programs will operate if the school is closed. If school is canceled due to an unforeseen event, students will attend school on the scheduled contingency day(s). Lost and Found Lost and found clothing items will be in the multi-purpose room for students to look through and claim lost items. Small items (glasses, keys, etc.) will be sent to the main office. To minimize the quantity of lost and found articles, we ask that you please write your child’s first and last name on everything he/she brings to school. Items left unclaimed will be donated to a local charity at the end of each month, and CIVICA is not responsible for those items. School Parties & Gifts Throughout the year, teachers can plan up to two parties for grades K-10 to recognize special holidays/events that are related appropriately to instruction. Details of celebrations will be announced during the year. Birthday celebrations will typically take place on the last Friday of each month (if the last day of that month falls on a Thursday, then the birthday celebrations will take place on that day.) Parents may be asked to assist teachers with special preparations. No gift exchanging will take place at school unless the entire class participates. If parents wish to send a small treat with their child for the class to share, the teacher must be notified ahead of time. Birthday class treats will be distributed at the end of the day (the last half hour). Depending on the school day, sometimes birthday treats will be sent home with students. On the last Friday of each month families will be invited to eat lunch with their child during the school day at a special birthday table located inside the MPR. Lunch will not be provided by the school for family members. *Due to health and safety concerns only store bought, NUT FREE, and packaged treats will be allowed. In addition, please contact your child’s homeroom teacher to discuss any possible student allergy concerns within the classroom. 11  School Safety and Security Important Notice Subject: Camera Installation in Classrooms and Offices We would like to inform you that, for the purposes of enhancing safety, security, and transparency, cameras will be installed in every classroom and office within our institution. This measure is being taken to ensure a secure environment for all students, faculty, and staff. Key Points to Note: Purpose: The cameras are being installed to maintain safety, monitor activities, and ensure the security of everyone within the premises. Coverage: Every classroom and office will have cameras installed. Common areas such as hallways and entrances are also covered. Privacy: The footage will be monitored and reviewed by authorized personnel only, in compliance with our privacy policies and applicable laws. Access: Camera footage will be securely stored and accessible only to authorized personnel in case of incidents or emergencies. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we implement this important security measure. Emergency Operations Plan CIVICA Academy has plans and procedures in place to protect your child and communicate in the event of an emergency. Our administration works with school staff, local law enforcement, and other public health and safety leaders to make our campus a safe place to learn. To protect our students and staff, CIVICA Academy is surrounded by security gates. We also have an electronic security system, burglar alarms, digital video recorders, and access controls. Visitors Safety is the top priority at CIVICA Academy. Each visitor to our school is required to sign in at the front office to obtain a visitor’s badge. It is extremely important that parents adhere to the rules of the school to ensure everyone’s safety. If you do not have a visitor’s badge, you will be asked to return to the front office to obtain one. Parents are allowed on campus, but need to be mindful as to not disrupt instructional time. Conferences will be held by appointment only. All special events and activities must be pre-approved by the administration. Birthday party celebrations, which include treats for students, are permitted on the last Friday of each month, unless the last day of the month falls on a Thursday. 12 Classroom Observations On occasion, parents may be requested to observe their child in the classroom setting. We do allow classroom observations; however, we have established the following guidelines to limit disruptions: Observations must be scheduled with the teacher at least one day in advance and approved by the administration. Observations are limited to thirty minutes. Parents cannot disrupt the educational setting ( i.e. talk to, or distract the child or classroom teacher during instruction). Parents are not permitted to record any portion of their 30-minute visit. Parents need to sign in at the front office and receive a visitor’s badge. Once in the classroom, the teacher will show you where to be seated during the observation. Parent actions that cause a distraction to the learning environment are prohibited. All observations are at the discretion of the Principal. Before, during, or after an observation, there should be NO conversation with the teacher while students are present. To set up a conference, please contact your child’s teacher or administration. No video or recording of any kind. Emergency Operations Plan CIVICA Academy has plans and procedures in place to protect your child and communicate in the event of an emergency. Our administration works with school staff, local law enforcement, and other public health and safety leaders to make our campus a safe place to learn. To protect our students and staff, CIVICA Academy is surrounded by security gates. We also have an electronic security system, burglar alarms, digital video recorders, and access controls. Incidents On or Near School Campus CIVICA Academy has a Crisis Response Team focused on prevention and reaction to emergencies. Furthermore, a Crisis Response Team provides support to students and staff after an incident. If there is a potential threat the school will go on lockdown to protect students, staff, and visitors. No students will be released during a lockdown. Parents will not be allowed on campus until the Incident Commander has given the clear to release students. Parent Crisis Notification Letter Dear Parent/Guardian: At CIVICA Career & Collegiate Academy, we place a high priority on protecting the safety of our students and employees. In emergency situations, if everyone knows what to do, all involved can Stay Calm and Stay Safe. This letter will inform you of how you and your student can stay safe in an emergency. 13 The CIVICA Academy Emergency Action Plan includes the following elements A detailed plan, coordinated with national, state and county emergency action plans, with detailed procedures for protecting the welfare of students during an emergency event School-based Crisis Team, integrated with community emergency response and mental health resources Local police agencies Individual Crisis Plans at each school, including regular drills for fire, lockdown, shelter-in-place for other potential disasters School-based Health Services, integrated with community health and medical resources A reunification site to reunite parents and students if off-school site evacuation is necessary. All community media outlets will communicate site of reunification immediately after confirmation of need for reunification off-site As the parent of a CIVICA Academy student, you are a vital part of our plans to protect your child. You can assist the various school personnel, police or fire personnel, or others engaged in the protection of your student and others by remaining calm. Before a Crisis Practice family crisis response at home: have a plan and supplies organized, and discuss remaining calm and asking for help when needed. Make sure the school has updated information regarding your child, including contact names and numbers and your child’s medical history. Discuss with your child the school’s rules during drills for fire and other emergencies; be sure your child understands correct procedures. Teach your child to stay with school staff and follow their directions. Tell your child NOT to try to contact you by cellular phone or landline until given the OK by school staff, thus allowing communication channels to remain open for emergency responders. Tell your child that you will remain at work or home and watch for information from CIVICA Academy as to where and when you and your child can reunite. During a Crisis Stay calm and do not come to the school so emergency responders can complete their mission. Keep phone lines free so school personnel and community responders can communicate with each other. Listen for information from CIVICA Career & Collegiate Academy over TV, radio or the Internet. This information will help you reunite with your child in an orderly and safe manner. Reunification When you reunite with your child: Be a model of calm, control and comfort - let your child know you will protect them. 14  Listen to your child and watch for temporary changes in behavior. Seek assistance for negative behavior changes that persist after two weeks. Keep in contact with your child’s school and follow recommendations from community experts. We at CIVICA Academy take pride in responding to the needs of our students and employees. Training and awareness activities continue in all areas of crisis management/response and school safety in an effort to stay current with national, state and county response plans. We appreciate your efforts in doing all you can to help us protect your child in an emergency. 15  Health Office Policies and Procedures Authorization for Medication For medication to be administered to your child, we must have an Authorization for Medication form. This form is available in the office and on our website. A pediatrician or family doctor must complete these forms. Please note that students are not allowed to carry prescription or over-the-counter medications in their backpack or on them at any time. Medication must be in its original container and labeled with the following information: the child’s name, dosage, name of the drug, physician’s name, and the name/phone number of the pharmacy that filled the prescription. Office personnel designated to dispense medication are required to count the number of pills the student brings to school and document in the student medication log. Expired medications will not be accepted. If a medication expires during the school year, it must be picked up or it will be disposed of, with no exceptions. Unclaimed medications will be disposed of at the end of the school year. Immunization Policy NRS 392.435 Immunization of pupils: Certificate prerequisite to enrollment; conditional enrollment; effect of failure to immunize; report to Health Division; inclusion of certificate in pupil’s record. In accordance with Nevada Revised Statute 392.435, unless a student has a written excuse because of religious belief or medical condition, a child may not be enrolled in CIVICA Career & Collegiate Academy, a public charter school, unless the student’s parents or guardian submit to the registrar of the school a certificate stating that the child has been immunized against diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, poliomyelitis (polio), rubella (German measles), rubeola, and other such diseases as the local Board of Health or State Board of Health may determine, and has received proper boosters for that immunization, or is complying with the schedules established pursuant to NRS 439.550. Accidents and Illnesses Parents will be notified immediately in case of illness or serious accident. In the event a parent cannot be contacted, the person(s) named as the emergency contact will be called. Please review and update your child’s emergency contact list to ensure accuracy. Please notify the office immediately of any accident or injury that occurs during arrival or departure from school. Children who are ill should remain at home to minimize the risk of passing the illness onto others. Parents should send written notification of all absences. Please notify the school of any chronic condition your child may have by completing the Student Health Form. 16 Independently Contracted Services In order to minimize disruptions to the learning environment, CIVICA Academy cannot accommodate independently contracted services for students from outside agencies during the school day. These services include, but are not limited to, psychological counseling and other related services not documented on a student’s Individual Education Plan. On occasion, the school may allow an independently contracted service provider to observe their student or offer support and suggestions for working together with the support and school. This may come at the request of the family. The administration must approve and the provider and family must sign the Memorandum of Understanding and adhere to all fingerprinting guidelines therein. Please contact the front office for any medical updates and concerns. 17  General Arrival and Dismissal Arrival Procedures 1. Students who arrive prior to 7:30 a.m. must check in to our morning CubCare. 2. If students are not already enrolled, students will be charged a one time enrollment fee of $50 and a session fee of $5.50 will be added to the students Infinite Campus account. Morning CubCare is $5.50 and afternoon CubCare is $7. 3. Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. must obtain a tardy pass at the front counter before proceeding to class. 4. Staff will assist students getting out of cars. Please keep all car doors shut until a staff member is available for the safety of your child(ren). It is recommended students exit their vehicle from the passenger side for maximum safety. 5. Walkers/Walk-On students must utilize the designated sidewalks and crosswalks for their safety. Please do not cross (walk through) our carloop at any time. Dismissal Procedures 1. Students will remain in their classrooms during silent dismissal. 2. Once the student arrives outside, staff will assist the student to their car. No students will be allowed to walk to their car by themselves. 3. Any student not picked up during the Car Loop dismissal window will be escorted to after school CubCare. There is no CubCare on Data Days. 4. If students are not already enrolled, students will be charged a one time enrollment fee of $50 and a session fee of $7 will be added to their Infinite Campus account. *If you need to pick up your child prior to the regular dismissal window, please arrive at the office before 2:00 p.m. Students will not be released for early dismissal after this time. Please keep in mind that habitual tardies, absences, and early withdrawals can negatively impact students and their ability to advance to the next grade level. Doctor’s notes are required for students who are absent, going to the doctor, or going for some other sort of medical/health treatment, including a dentist/orthodontist. Waiting Near Campus Students waiting on side roads, parking lots, and any area that is not the campus of CIVICA Academy are the responsibility and liability of the parent or guardian, regardless of the parent or guardian supervision. If students are on sidewalks near campus and are not acting in accordance with behavior expectations, including but not limited to: throwing rocks, using profanity, playing near the road, running around, fighting, threatening, or littering the following actions may be taken: 1. Students will be asked to return to campus for required Supervision in Cub Care. Fees including registration and daily charges, approved for this care will be the responsibility of the parent or guardian. 2. School progressive discipline may be applied for the observed behavior, including all punitive measures. 18  3. Local law enforcement will be called for students who are a threat to the safety of themselves or others and who refuse to return to school for required supervision and/or school disciplinary actions. Walking or Biking off Campus Students must be in 4th-10th grade to walk home independently. A younger sibling in Kindergarten-3rd grade may only walk off campus if they are accompanied by an older CIVICA sibling in grades 4-10. In order to walk or bike home after dismissal, students must have a signed “After School Information” sheet on file in the front office indicating parents have given permission for their child to walk or bike off campus. If a student walks or bikes off campus they must be able to independently leave campus and will be asked to exit campus immediately after the dismissal bell. If you have any questions regarding this policy, please contact our front office. After 3:25 p.m., all remaining students will be placed in the CubCare After School Program and parents will be responsible for the registration and/or daily fee. We ask that each family fill out a CubCare Before and After School Program form in case of an emergency. The form is a precautionary measure and does not enroll your child in the program on a daily basis, only for the day needed. Students who are placed by the school, or enrolled by parents, in the CubCare Program will be charged a yearly enrollment fee of $50. CubCare is available until 6:00 p.m. and the applicable fees are listed on the CubCare page of our school website. While waiting to be dismissed to go home, students will read silently, work on homework, or work on their blended learning path on a computer under staff supervision. They should not be visiting with their friends or allowed to wander around the school campus. Carloop The morning Car Loop operates from 7:30 a.m.–8:00 a.m. The carloop closes at 8:00 a.m. Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. will check in at the front desk, receive a tardy pass, and then walk to their classroom. The afternoon Car Loop operates from 2:40 p.m.–3:25 p.m. You will want to pay attention to the specific timelines designated for 6th-10th grade, as well as Kindergarten-5th grade. The carloop closes at 3:25 p.m. Students on campus after 3:25 p.m. will be escorted to CubCare at the expense of the family. As parents enter the Car Loop, please adhere to ALL staff directions and instructions. Please do not allow your child(ren) to enter or exit your car unless there is a staff member available to assist. Parents should remain in their car at all times to help speed up the Car Loop process. We also ask that parents refrain from using their cell phone while in the Drop-off/Pick-up Zone staying alert and being proactive. Staff will assist with opening of car doors. 19  Students should exit/enter the car with their backpack in hand. Backpacks should not be stored in the trunk or away from the child(ren). Each student/family will receive four (4) car placards with an assigned number to be used for Car Loop pickup purposes. All vehicles entering the Car Loop must display their placard on the right side of the vehicle dashboard. Starting a few minutes before 2:40 p.m. (6th-10th) and 3:00 p.m. (K-5th), a staff member will input Car Loop Numbers into the Silent Dismissal System. This system notifies students in the classroom to come to a designated spot in the Pickup Zone. If your child is not at the designated spot when you arrive in the Pickup Zone, you will be asked to pull off to a “Waiting Zone” located to the right of the round-about. (If your child is not in the designated spot on time, please talk with him/her about the importance of being prompt and alert while in the Pickup Zone. Students should not be playing or talking with friends at other locations during this time.) As you exit, please be sure to obey all traffic signs and laws. Carpooling is strongly encouraged to reduce the number of cars in the Car Loop. To carpool, simply give one of the four placards with your child’s Car Loop number to the family picking up your child. By giving them a placard, your number with this person, you are authorizing them to pick up your child for you. Please yield to all children and car loop duty personnel. In addition to the issuance of citations from local law enforcement, CIVICA Academy will implement the following consequences for violation of these rules: 1. Documented warning 2. Incident report 3. Administrative Meeting for Breach of Contract 4. Possible trespassing issued Helpful Reminders to Ensure Student Safety: If your child is not ready to leave your car (morning) or walk out to your car (afternoon) when traffic is ready to move, please move to the waiting lane. Pull all the way forward. Please do not leave a gap larger than 5 feet between your car and the car in front of you. Do not open any car doors until traffic has come to a complete stop. Do not wave your child on to your car or drop-off in random locations. Once traffic stops, a staff member will assist students in/out of cars. Please DO NOT use your cell phone while in the carloop. Keep your eyes on the road and traffic – not on your child – until you come to a complete stop and/or once you pull away. The speed limit in Car Loop is 5 MPH or less. Parents not willing to follow these rules and procedures should not use Car Loop and should arrange a meeting spot off campus to meet their child. 20  CubCare Program CubCare is used to describe any child care that takes place before or after school hours. This does not include school sponsored activities such as sports and clubs. If your child requires childcare through CubCare, families must fill out a CubCare application that can be found in the Families tab on our website. Students who are placed by the school, because they were not picked up on time, or are enrolled by parents in the CubCare program will be charged a fee. Students arriving on campus prior to 7:30 a.m. will be sent to the CubCare (fee-based) program and parents will be responsible for the daily fee. We ask that you fill out a CubCare form in case of emergency. The form is a precautionary measure and does not enroll your child in the program on a daily basis, only in the event it’s needed. CubCare is available until 6:00 p.m. and the applicable fees are listed in the CubCare Handbook on the school website. CubCare AM/PM CIVICA Academy has before and after school care in a structured environment to be available on campus. It is the parent/guardian responsibility to register and pay for such services. Please visit the link below for detailed information on how to register for CubCare AM and/or PM at our school. 2024-2025 Cubcare Online Registration Form The times for the CubCare programs are listed below: CubCare AM (Before Care) Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 7:29 a.m. CubCare PM (After Care) Hours: 3:26 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. *subject to change* There is no CubCare on Data Days. All students must be potty trained and be able to independently utilize the restroom. Exceptions must be documented and approved before attending before and after school care. Administration and the director of CubCare Before/After school programs reserve the ability to remove any student from the program for behavior and non-payment. No refunds will be issued if removed from the CubCare program. 21  Athletics Program CIVICA Academy is committed to providing a diverse range of extracurricular sports activities for its students and families. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the athletics program and associated fees: Individual season plan- $150 per player Includes CIVICA Athletics T-shirt (with 1st $50 deposit) Payment plans can be put into place with the front office (signing paperwork) Jersey is NOT included in season pay. Sports fees assist CIVICA and each individual team with various equipment purchases, league fees, ref fees, and facility maintenance. National Sports ID: Middle and Elementary sports require a $11 registration fee per year for students (This is an additional fee to the sports fee). This is not a fee administered from CIVICA. It is a requirement for NCSAA games. Physical Night: August 22nd @ 5 PM. Will be hosted at CIVICA with a hosting company. Physical cost will be cheaper and will be announced prior to the event. For more information or to arrange payment plans, please contact the front office. Please note that we hold our student athletes to a high standard of academic excellence and exceptional behavior. A 2.0 GPA is required to play any sport. Students with academic concerns will be given an opportunity to improve grades through a tangible academic improvement plan provided by the athletic director or administrator. Any athlete participating in an activity or engaging in personal conduct that results in disciplinary action may become ineligible to play and will be removed from the team roster. Administration reserves the right to remove a student from any sports for academics, behavior, attendance, or health related concerns. No refunds for sports fees will be given. Our coaches often seek volunteer assistance during each season – this is a great way for parents to be involved in our school community! All volunteer coaches must pass fingerprinting. Should a student choose to drop out of a sport or become ineligible to participate, the student will not be able to return to that sport during that season. Refunds will not be given. 22  School Lunch Free and Reduced Lunch Program All CIVICA families are entitled to free breakfast and lunch. When applicable, families are encouraged to apply for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program (FRLP). You can find the application at our school's front office or on our school website. If your financial situation has changed, or you think you would qualify, you may obtain a new application at the school office. This designation helps our school apply for grants and extra resources, therefore, we ask every parent to fill out the form regardless of whether or not you believe you would qualify. In order to minimize classroom interruptions we will not call a child down to the office to receive a sack lunch from a parent. Lunch Deliveries: Students may not receive Grub hub, Uber Eats, DoorDash, or any other delivery service at school. Please Note: Students who are not participating in the Free and Reduced Lunch Program must bring their own lunch during morning arrival times. School Wellness Policy Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards for all Foods Sold in Schools The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 directed the USDA to establish science-based nutrition standards for all foods and beverages sold to students in school during the school day. The Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards support efforts by school food service staff, school administrators, teachers, parents, and the school community, who all work together to instill healthy habits in students. The Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards cover all foods sold in schools. This means foods sold during the school day in the following locations, (but not limited to) school stores, vending machines, bake sales, the snack bar, must meet the minimum federal regulations as laid out in the Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards. The intent of these standards is not to limit popular snack items, but instead to make healthier snacks available to students. These snacks must meet common-sense standards for fat, saturated fat, sugar, and sodium, while promoting products that have whole grains, low- fat dairy, fruits, vegetables or protein foods as their main ingredients. Advisory Group CIVICA Academy will have a Wellness Advisory Group made up of diverse stakeholders to assess the schools needs and develop a policy that meets the operational realities of the school and work toward improved health and wellness outcomes for school children. 23 The Wellness Advisory Panel will include A parent representative A middle-school representative A staff member representative ○ The Wellness Advisory Panel will meet twice a year to review the School’s Goals, Menu, and discuss other issues Flora Leon, Kitchen Manager School Wellness Policy Goals Promote nutrition education with the objective of improving students’ health and reducing childhood obesity. Nutrition education is integrated into the school curriculum through science and physical education. Nutrition education involves sharing information with families and the broader community. ○ Action Steps: Menu review with parents and teachers through meetings regarding calorie intake and healthy eating. Nutrition education information is distributed at parent nights. Promote physical activity with the objective of improving students’ health, academic achievement, and reducing childhood obesity. ○ Action Steps: Daily physical activity is provided through recess (30 min), physical education (twice a week), brain breaks. Wellness Promotion Policy goals are considered in planning of all school and department-based activities (such as school events, field trips, dances, assemblies, and workshops). Incentives & Rewards: Special circumstances, with School Administrator approval, food awards or incentives may be used as long as they are in alignment with the Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards. Fundraising Special Occasions: For the following special occasions and/or holidays foods may exceed the established nutrition standards: State or National Holidays Valentine’s Day Nevada Day/Halloween Day Day Prior to Thanksgiving Day Prior to Spring Break Day Prior to Winter Break School Community Observations: Birthday Parties and Other Celebrations- Once per month (last Friday) or as otherwise determined by the School Administration. Fundraising for various school related activities, sporting events and field trips, using outside vendors (all nutritional facts are available for review). ALL 24  fundraisers on school campus during the school day will meet the Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards. If fundraisers sell items that do not meet Smart Snacks, it will occur at least 30 minutes after the end of the school day or on a weekend. Fundraisers that are intended to be consumed at home (cookie dough, popcorn, etc.) will not be affected since they are not consumed at school. Students are NOT allowed to sell any items on campus for individual/personal use. All fundraisers must be approved by the Administration in advance. In order to minimize risks of foodborne-illness and to avoid known food allergens, food must be commercially prepared. Smart Snacks Nutrition Standards: All foods and beverages available for sale to students on the school campus during the school day must meet the minimum nutrition standards. These food standards apply to all grade levels (unless otherwise specified). Caffeine: All foods and beverages in elementary school and middle school must be non-carbonated and caffeine-free, with the exception of trace amounts of naturally-occurring caffeine substances (e.g. chocolate milk). Chewing Gum: Chewing gum is NOT allowed on any CIVICA Academy campus for sale or use. 25  Academics School Curriculum CIVICA Academy follows the standards and objectives stated in the Nevada Academic Content Standards. It encompasses the core subject areas of Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Classroom Placement Our administrative staff reviews each student’s scores and performance evaluations in order to provide students with the best possible learning environment. We also consider a student’s individual personality, development, and character in our final decisions. We are not obligated to honor any special requests for classroom placements. In addition, we reserve the right to change student classroom assignments, as needed, for the needs of the individual or classroom environment. Secondary students in year long courses are committed to staying in those courses. Course changes cannot be made after the first week of school. High school students need 60 hours or more of seat time to get credit for a course. Secondary students may only request placement changes for the following reasons: placed in wrong level course already took the course need a different course for desired diploma requirements Textbook/Agendas/Technology Students may be issued textbooks. Students must immediately inform teachers about any lost or damaged books so that they can be replaced. Parents will be responsible for the cost of the replacement book(s). The same rule applies for lost library books, agendas, and other property of CIVICA Academy. ALL CIVICA students will be charged a $9 technology fee for the upkeep and care of the laptops, iPads, and other technology they utilize. All textbook fees may be waived for any pupil who qualifies to participate in a program for free or reduced-price meals, regardless of whether the charter school participates in a program for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Act or School Breakfast Program, as defined in NRS 387.0693 and 387.073. Field Trips All trips planned by the school are for specific educational purposes. Participation in field trips requires the student to present a field trip form signed by the parent/guardian to his or her teacher in advance. Students going on a field trip must assume the responsibility for all associated costs. Please keep in mind that once the field trip has been paid, the school will not issue a refund. If a hardship exists where a student cannot afford the cost of the field trip, please notify administration. 26 Parents/Guardians may pre-arrange, through the field trip packet, the option to sign out their student from a field trip. Photo ID must be presented at the time of release. Release from a field trip must be agreed upon with the teacher prior to the event. Students who are not picked up promptly will remain with CIVICA staff and return to campus with their peers. Administration has the right to remove students from field trips based on grades, attendance, and behavior. No refunds will be given for students unable to attend field trips. All school fee accounts must be at a zero balance in order to participate. Students are subject to all CIVICA Academy Student Code of Conduct policies while attending a field trip. Administration will be consulted with by the lead chaperone should the need for progressive discipline arise. In such cases, where a student must be immediately removed from a trip due to behavior, possession of illegal substances, or detained by law enforcement, the parents/guardians will be responsible for the travel arrangements back from the trip. Should a student injury happen while attending a field trip, the school will contact the family, utilize the health information and insurance information provided, and make every effort to work with the family to find the best solution for student care and transportation back home. It is expected that the parents will aid in the solutions with the school, if the transportation home from the trip is jeopardized based on the injury. Field Trip Chaperones Field trip chaperones will be selected by the lead teacher or administration. Parent chaperones may not bring other children on field trips. All parents attending trips over 24 hours are subject to fingerprinting and a background check at the chaperone’s expense. This will need to be completed at least 6 weeks prior to the trip. Chaperones are expected to remain with students for the entire field trip, including the return trip to school. Chaperones are expected to actively engage with and monitor students on the trip. Chaperones are expected to follow all directives of the lead staff member on the trip. 27  Grading and Reporting Student Progress Academic Grades Students are evaluated through formative and summative assessments to report individual achievement in relation to school goals, acceptance norms, and student potential. The primary means of communicating student progress and achievement of the standards for promotion include: student grades on Infinite Campus, unsatisfactory notices, parent reports on state assessments, and/or standardized testing, parent conferences, and adult/student conferences. A student’s academic grade reflects the most objective assessment of the student’s academic achievement. Specific guidelines for grading student performance and for reporting student progress are provided below. Academic grades transparently reflect the student’s academic progress. The grade must provide, for both students and parents, a clear indication of each student’s academic performance as compared with norms that would be appropriate for the grade or subject. The determination of the specific grade a student receives will be based on the objective grading of academic assignments during a grading period. The academic grades of “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “F,” are based on the student’s degree of mastery of the instructional objectives and competencies for the subject. 28  Elementary School Grading Scales in Infinite Campus Overall Grades A 90% - 100% Outstanding B 80% - 89% Above Average C 70% - 79% Average D 60% - 69% Below Average F 59% and below Failing Citizenship Grades Student comes prepared every day, participates in lessons, turns in most E Excellent assignments, has excellent attendance, and is a pleasure to have in class (typically A/B students) Student comes prepared most days, participates in most lessons, turns in most S Satisfactory assignments, has good attendance, and is a pleasure to have in class (typically A/B/C students) Student does not come prepared often enough, does not participates in enough N Needs Improvement lessons, does not turn in enough assignments, has attendance/tardy issues, and/or has on-going behavioral issues (typically B/C/D students) K-5th Grade Specials & Electives* Homework-will be included as part of (Formative Assessment) Assessments/Projects - 100% Classwork - 30% (Formative Assessment) *Elective categories can vary Assessment - 70% with administrative approval. (Summative Assessment) 29  Middle School Grading Scales in Infinite Campus Overall Grades A 90% - 100% Outstanding B 80% - 89% Above Average C 70% - 79% Average D 60% - 69% Below Average F 59% and below Failing Citizenship Grades Student comes prepared every day, participates in lessons, turns in most O Outstanding assignments, has excellent attendance, and is a pleasure to have in class (typically A/B students) Student comes prepared most days, participates in most lessons, turns in most S Satisfactory assignments, has good attendance, and is a pleasure to have in class (typically A/B/C students) Student does not come prepared often enough, does not participates in enough N Needs Improvement lessons, does not turn in enough assignments, has attendance/tardy issues, and/or has on-going behavioral issues (typically B/C/D students) Student does not come prepared, does not participate in lessons, does not U Unsatisfactory turn in assignments, has major attendance/tardy issues, and/or has on-going behavioral issues (typically D/F students) Grading Categories and Weights in Infinite Campus ELA, Math (Math 6 through Pre-Algebra), Science & Social Studies, Electives Quarter Grades Summative (tests/assessments) of quarter grade 70% Formative (classwork, quizzes, etc.) of quarter grade 30% Quarter 1 + Quarter 2 = Semester 1 45% Quarter 3 + Quarter 4 = Semester 2 45% Semester Exam of semester grade 10% *Grading weights are subject to change. All changes made during the school year will be communicated to parents* 30  High School Grading Scales in Infinite Campus Overall Grades A 90% - 100% Outstanding B 80% - 89% Above Average C 70% - 79% Average D 60% - 69% Below Average F 59% and below Failing Citizenship Grades Student comes prepared every day, participates in lessons, turns in most O Outstanding assignments, has excellent attendance, and is a pleasure to have in class (typically A/B students) Student comes prepared most days, participates in most lessons, turns in most S Satisfactory assignments, has good attendance, and is a pleasure to have in class (typically A/B/C students) Student does not come prepared often enough, does not participates in enough N Needs Improvement lessons, does not turn in enough assignments, has attendance/tardy issues, and/or has on-going behavioral issues (typically B/C/D students) Student does not come prepared, does not participate in lessons, does not U Unsatisfactory turn in assignments, has major attendance/tardy issues, and/or has on-going behavioral issues (typically D/F students) Grading Categories and Weights in Infinite Campus ELA, Math (Math 6 through Pre-Algebra), Science & Social Studies, Electives Quarter Grades Summative (tests/assessments) of quarter grade 70% Formative (classwork, quizzes, etc.) of quarter grade 30% Quarter 1 + Quarter 2 = Semester 1 45% Quarter 3 + Quarter 4 = Semester 2 45% Semester Exam of semester grade 10% *Grading weights are subject to change. All changes made during the school year will be communicated to parents* 31 Semester Exams Students in middle school and high school are expected to complete semester exams during the designated timeframe set forth each semester. Students who do not complete a semester exam in a course will earn a zero for that particular assessment. A zero will result in a negative impact on the student’s semester grade. State End of Course Exams will be used as prescribed for the second semester final exams in Algebra I. Semester Exam Make-Up Policy Semester exam make-ups for middle school and high school students will only be permitted for the reasons listed below. A pre-arranged absence form has been completed and signed by the parent, student, and teacher(s) and submitted to the Attendance Clerk. The pre-arranged absence form is due 3 days PRIOR to the first day of the absence. Please note that the pre-arranged absence will only qualify if it falls within the parameters of the school-approved excused absences. Medical documentation has been provided for the specific days that an exam was missed. *Please note that it is the responsibility of the parent and student to make arrangements with a teacher and administrator to make up semester exams if the student is permitted to do so. Grade Reporting Report cards are issued quarterly according to the dates identified on the official CIVICA Academy Calendar. Unsatisfactory reports will be distributed once per quarter. Student progress may be accessed at any time through Infinite Campus. Please feel free to consult your child’s teacher regarding his/her progress. Grades K-5 Reporting Grades for students in K-5 will accumulate by semester. Report cards will still be issued each quarter; however, they will reflect an “In Progress” grade until the semester report card is issued. Reporting in this manner allows parents to see the semester grade as it is developing and have the maximum awareness of the students progress. The cumulative grades will be a primary factor when administration determines promotion or retention to the next grade level/course. Schoolwide benchmark testing will also weigh heavily in these decisions. Grades 6-12 Reporting Grades for students in 6-12 will accumulate by quarter and semester. Credit is issued in half credit (semester) units for secondary students; report cards will be issued each quarter/semester. Students must pass each credit-bearing course with a D or higher for the semester to earn credit for the class. Semester exams are worth 10% of the overall semester grade. 32 Late Work Students will receive penalties for late work: 1 day late = 10% reduction in score 2 days late = 20% reduction in score 3 days late = 30% reduction in score 4 or more days late = Maximum score of 60% Teachers may opt not to accept any late work corresponding to a unit that is complete and has been summatively assessed. Academic Support Any child who is below grade level in reading, writing, math, or science will be provided mandatory intervention(s) throughout the school day. This could be, but is not limited to: individual pull-out, tutoring, guided groups, and direct intervention groups, in place of specialist classes or electives. If the school identifies your student as requiring additional instruction and/or remediation, attendance at and successful completion of these intervention options are mandatory. Any student, who is below grade level at the end of the year, may be retained in the current grade level or be required to repeat the course. Students are not socially promoted at CIVICA Academy. Together, we will work to ensure students are confident, capable, and proficient before promotion to the next grade level. Therefore, students may be retained in the current grade level if they are below grade level in reading, writing, math, or science. Assessments Accountability for student achievement is the primary mission at CIVICA Career & Collegiate Academy. Assessments assist CIVICA in determining student mastery of Nevada Academic Content Standards and assist in determining whether students are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills they need to be college and career ready. Therefore, every child enrolled at CIVICA Academy will participate in academic assessments. Academic Assessment for all K-10th grade students are administered three times during the school year. (Fall, Winter, and Spring) Assessments Grades i-Ready Diagnostics - ELA and Math Kindergarten through 8th grade NWEA MAP - ELA Only Kindergarten through 3rd grade CERT Assessments - Multi-subjects 9th through 10th grade SBAC Assessment (Spring only) ELA and Math 3rd, 4th, 6th, 7th grade ELA, Math, and Science 5th and 8th grade Science Only 9th grade 33 CIVICA Academy does not recognize parent opt out or parent/student refusal to test. If a parent keeps their child home during mandatory testing, the school will utilize the progressive attendance policy and the test will be made up upon the student’s return to school. If a student is at school and refuses to take the assessment, the school will respond with progressive discipline measures. Retention Policy CIVICA Academy has implemented a strict policy regarding retention. Students must meet specific levels of performance in order to be promoted. For students who are not meeting grade level performance standards and are at risk for retention, the parent/guardian will be notified to provide opportunities for intervention and remediation. At the end of the year, the student’s data will be reviewed, in conjunction with the parent/guardian, and a final determination of grade level promotion or retention will be made by administration. Students deemed to be chronically absent will be retained dependent on academic growth. The final determination will be made by the administration. Middle and High school students who do not earn the appropriate amount of seat time and credits to advance to the next grade level will remain in their current grade level. Families of students who become credit-deficient will be responsible for paying for a school approved credit-retrieval program that will aid the student in earning the credit(s) necessary to advance to the next grade level. High school students who do not pass their coursework will be required to complete and pass credit recovery coursework (paid by family), or take coursework concurrently depending on schedule availability. CIVICA Academy will not promote credit-deficient middle school students to high school. Credit Requirements Middle School Credit Requirements Students in 6th grade must successfully pass one semester of the following courses for promotion to the next grade: ELA, mathematics, and science. Students in grade 7 must successfully pass one semester of the following courses for promotion to the next grade: ELA, mathematics, science, and social studies. According to Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) 389.445 Students in 7th and 8th grade must successfully pass the following courses during the 7th and 8th grades for promotion to high school: 34  ○ One and one-half units of credit in ELA (Reading/English) with a passing grade. (3 of 4 semesters) ○ One and one-half units of credit in mathematics with a passing grade; (3 of 4 semesters) ○ One unit of credit in science with a passing grade; and (2 of 4 semesters) ○ One unit of credit in social studies with a passing grade. (2 of 4 semesters) An 8th grade student not meeting criteria for promotion to 9th grade and not meeting the criteria for academic probation may be retained in the eighth grade for the following school year without limitation. A retained eighth grade student may not be promoted mid-year. Middle School Course of Action for Credit Deficient Students Students who are credit deficient will be placed on a credit retrieval plan. This will be handled on an individual basis. Possible interventions include, but are not limited to: Placement testing and credit acquisition in a summer program or school approved online program. The family will fund this option. Placement testing, retention and placement in previously attempted grade level for a second academic school year. High School Course of Action for Credit Deficient Students Students who are credit deficient will be placed on a credit retrieval plan. This will be handled on an individual basis. Possible interventions include, but are not limited to: Credit acquisition in a summer program or school-approved online program. The family will fund this option. ○ Note, students may only register for a maximum of one credit (two semesters) of credit retrieval courses for CIVICA Academy Summer School. As a school we utilize The DELTA Academy and BYU Independent Study Online. Mandatory recovery courses in conjunction with the general requirements during their following academic year. There is no charge for this option if the needed courses are available during the school day. If the course is full or unavailable, the family will need to fund an online credit retrieval option. Additionally, after one re-attempt during the school day, students will be required to take the third attempt online and the family will fund this option. Students who are not on track to graduate by the end of the first semester of their fourth year of high school are required to meet with members of the leadership and administration team to make a formal academic plan for the pursuit of graduation at a future date. 35 36 37  Attendance Policy General Policy Attendance is extremely important and is a focus at CIVICA Academy. The state of Nevada tracks student attendance and CIVICA is held accountable for students attending school. Aside from state reporting, students need to learn the life skill of arriving on time. This also aligns with our vision of students being successful in college and career. Students will earn attendance incentives for coming to school on time, every day. The incentives may be individual or whole class incentives. Accountability and consequences may occur for those who do not follow attendance protocol. Please remember your child needs to be on time and in school everyday in order to learn. There are only 180 days in a school year; therefore, every minute of learning counts! Families of students with excessive tardies and absences will receive formal communication from CIVICA Academy, as well as potential home visits from the administration. If certain circumstances are present, CPS or the authorities will be involved. For each day a student is absent, parents/guardians must submit supporting documentation explaining the reason for the absence. If your student is sick, and not in school, a physician’s note must be provided. You should notify CIVICA Academy, as well as your child’s teacher or teachers that your child is out due to illness. Students with excessive absences will be referred to administration. Attendance Review Committee referrals will be issued after reaching the school’s maximum allowance (7 days), and may result in the student’s report card reflecting insufficient attendance for receiving a grade and/or being promoted to the next grade level. Students who have missed 5 days or more** (excused or unexcused) per semester may be limited, or restricted from participation in field trips, sports, student performances, and/or extra-curricular activities. If your child is absent from school, CIVICA Academy requires a doctor’s note from a medical professional, or the absence will be deemed unexcused. Pre-arranged absences must be submitted 3 days in advance using the Pre-Arranged Absence Form available in the school office and on the school website. They will be deemed excused or unexcused based on the attendance guidelines of what constitutes an excused or unexcused absence. Individual student absences should be limited to a maximum of nine (9) total absences per semester. All pre-arranged absences in excess of ten (10) days during a school year shall be considered unapproved. All pre-arranged absences for which the make-up work was not completed and submitted as specified by the teacher shall be considered unapproved. The limitations of absences may be adjusted for block scheduling or other unique schedules, which should be equal to the total number of absences allowed for schedules not on unique or block times. 38  A student’s medical illness or conditions may prevent a student from meeting the above goal, and absences which are due to the student’s physical or mental inability to attend school, if properly documented and submitted to the school within the timelines defined by this policy, will not be included in the determination of a student’s denial of credit or retention if the student has completed coursework requirements. Elementary Attendance Policy In accordance with School Daily Attendance policies, students must be physically present in school for a minimum of 50% of the school day period (AM & PM) in order to be counted as present for attendance purposes. Elementary Excessive Absences (K-5th) Every absence Parents will receive automated notification (text & phone call) of (Excused or absence/tardy through Infinite Campus Messenger. Unexcused) 3 absences Classroom teacher adds the student to watch list (Excused or Unexcused) 5 absences Office Staff emails/sends attendance policy to parents. The Student (Excused or Success Coordinator calls student to the office to give them a physical Unexcused) copy of the attendance policy. Will be documented in Infinite Campus. May be restricted from field trips, performances, sports, and/or extracurricular activities Referral to the Truancy Outreach Prevention Program 7 absences Truancy citation #1 issued (Excused or Office Staff emails/sends attendance policy to parents. Unexcused) May be restricted from field trips, performances, sports, and/or extracurricular activities. Required parent conference with Student Success Coordinator and/or Assistant Principal, and physical copy of attendance policy given to family. Will be documented in Infinite Campus. Intervention plan developed. Students will be scheduled for a full day of In-School Restorative Reflection. Referral to the Truancy Outreach Prevention Program. 10 absences* Truancy citation #2 issued (Excused or Required parent conference with Principal and physical copy of Unexcused) attendance policy given to family. Will be documented in Infinite Campus. Will be restricted from field trips, performances, sports, and/or extracurricular activities Intervention plan reviewed and revised Possible Educational Neglect Report Filed with Child Protective Services 39  Students will be scheduled for a 3-hour Restorative Detention Session (Saturday School-held every month). Possible retention if low academically)* Referred to the Truancy Outreach Prevention Program 15+ absences Truancy citation #3 issued Required parent conference with Principal & Student Support Services. Physical copy of attendance policy given to family. Will be documented in Infinite Campus. Will be restricted from field trips, performances, sports, and/or extracurricular activities Students reaching twenty (20) absences in a school year will be retained dependent on academic growth. Educational Neglect Report filed with Child Protective Services Students will be scheduled for a 3-hour Restorative Detention Session (Saturday School-held every month). Referred to the Truancy Outreach Prevention Program Secondary Attendance Policy Individual student absences should be limited to a maximum of nine (9) total absences per semester. Drivers under the age of 18 are required to show proof of school attendance per NRS.483.2521. All Nevada students will be required to submit a DMV-301, the Department of Motor Vehicles Certificate of Attendance form, to the local DMV office when applying for either an instructional permit or a driver's license. Students who fail to meet the attendance standards outlined above will be unable to secure the school official's signature required on the DMV-301 to apply for an instruction permit or driver’s license. All pre-arranged absences in excess of ten (10) days during a school year shall be considered unapproved. All pre-arranged absences for which the make-up work was not completed and submitted as specified by the teacher shall be considered unapproved. The limitations of absences may be adjusted for block scheduling or other unique schedules, which should be equal to the total number of absences allowed for schedules, not for unique or block times. A student’s medical illnesses or conditions may prevent a student from meeting the above goal, and absences which are due to the student’s physical or mental inability to attend school, if properly documented and submitted to the school within the timelines defined by this policy, will not be included in the determination of a student’s denial of credit or retention if the student has completed coursework requirements. 40 Secondary Excessive Absenteeism, Denial of Credit; Retention (6th-10th) Every absence Parents will receive automated notification (text & phone call) of (Excused or absence/tardy through Infinite Campus Messenger. Unexcused) 3 absences Classroom teacher adds the student to watch list (Excused or Unexcused) 5 absences Office Staff emails/sends attendance policy to parents. Dean of (Excused or Students calls student to the office to give them a physical copy of the Unexcused) attendance policy. Will be documented in Infinite Campus. May be restricted from field trips, performances, sports, and/or extracurricular activities Referral to the Truancy Outreach Prevention Program 7 absences Truancy citation #1 issued (Excused or Office Staff emails/sends attendance policy to parents. Unexcused) May be restricted from field trips, performances, sports, and/or extracurricular activities Required parent conference with Assistant Principal, and physical copy of attendance policy given to family. Will be documented in Infinite Campus.