PHILADELPHIA ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL K - 8 CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT A Partnership in Responsibility The Philadelphia Academy Charter School is committed to respect the rights of others. Rules governing discipline and conduct are written so that parents, students, teachers and administrators know what is required of students. By working together under clearly stated and consistently enforced regulations, we can administer firm and fair discipline practices. Parents, teachers, staff, school administrators and the Board of Trustees are responsible for helping students develop self-discipline. The Code of Student Conduct delineates the partnership that the school and the larger community share across several broad concepts: • • • • •

Environment, which includes the climate of the school; Education, which includes preparation and work habits; Respect, which includes treatment of others; Participation, which includes involvement in school activities; and Expression, which includes dress and verbal and nonverbal issues

These broad concepts appear in each statement of responsibility contained in this handbook.

Beliefs The following beliefs guided the development of the Code of Student Conduct: 1. That schools must be safe and secure for students and staff. 2. That students have rights and responsibilities in the learning environment of the school. 3. That the school is for instruction and learning, and anything which distracts from that process must be dealt with by school officials. 4. That students and their parents should be knowledgeable of school and classroom rules. 5. That students have a responsibility to exercise self-control over their own behavior. 6. That the responsibility for discipline is shared among students, school personnel, the Board of Trustees and parents. 7. That students who violate school and classroom rules must be afforded their rights to due process, which are procedurally, morally and legally fair and correct. 8. That students who violate classroom rules should be assigned disciplinary measures with the purpose of correcting their behavior. 9. That disciplinary measures should be progressive and preventative, unless the safety of students is an issue. 10. That disciplinary measures should be firm, fair and consistent. 11. That the disciplinary measures of the school should be a problem solving process and should focus on the causes of the infraction. 12. That the assigning of disciplinary measures should be commensurate with the circumstances.

Student Rights Education The rights of all students are ensured by the Constitution of the United States and the State of Pennsylvania and by all applicable federal, state and local statutes. These rights, including the 1

right to an education, shall be recognized without regard to race, religion, sex, creed, ability to pay, national origin, disabling condition or intellectual ability. Students have a right to a public education, beginning with kindergarten and extending through the twelfth grade.

Environment Students have the right to expect a safe school environment in which to learn and a climate within the school that is conducive to learning.

Respect Students have a right to expect courtesy, fairness and respect from members of the school staff and other students.

Property Students have a right to expect that other students and school personnel will respect their personal property.

Participation: Students have a right to participate in school activities, subject to qualifications, requirements and compliance with the Board of Directors policies and regulations.

Expression/Appeal Students have the right to address policies, both publicly and privately, in writing and orally. Students may advocate change in any law, policy or regulation.

School Jurisdiction The authority of the school over the conduct of students extends to the following locations: 1. On the school grounds during, before and after school hours. 2. On the school grounds as either a spectator or participant any other time when school is being used by a school group. 3. Off the school grounds at any school-related activity, function or event as a participant or spectator. 4. At the school bus stop and while riding on a school bus for any school-related activity.

Student Expression The principal will maintain open channels of communication through which students may express their individual or group concerns and suggestions, which will be formally and informally deliberated. We sincerely believe that continued recognition of students’ rights and responsibilities will develop within our youth a student philosophy that will nurture their internal strengths, will deter the influence and spread of degrading attitudes and will perpetuate the American ideal of a responsible, democratic system of government.

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RESPONSIBILITIES Student Responsibilities Environment 1. Assist the principal, and his or her staff, in the operation of a safe and orderly school, where all students can learn and develop socially. 2. Be clean and dress in compliance with school rules of sanitation and safety in a fashion that will not disrupt classroom procedures and in a manner, which conforms to community standards of decency. 3. Obey school rules and/or the law concerning use, possession, distribution or sale of tobacco, marijuana or controlled substances as defined under the Drug Control Act, drug paraphernalia as defined by the State of Pennsylvania, imitation controlled substances, nonprescription or prescription drugs or alcohol on school property, on the way to and from school, or while attending school-sponsored activities. 4. Obey laws and regulations which forbid supplying, handling, using, transmitting or possessing any type of weapon on school property, on the way to and from school, or at any school-sponsored event. 5. Report incidents to the principal or his/her staff when your safety, or the safety of others, may be jeopardized.

Education 1. Support education for everyone, as provided by applicable federal, state and local statutes, without regard to race, religion, sex, creed, ability to pay, national origin, disability or intellectual ability. 2. Take advantage of the studies offered by the school. 3. Complete assigned work, study and read. 4. Attend school regularly and punctually. 5. Be prepared for learning by bringing materials and supplies to classes.

Respect 1. Be self controlled and non-disruptive on school property and/or at school activities. 2. Be responsible, modest, self-controlled, non-suggestive, non-intimidating and considerate in your relationships with other students and with school employees. 3. Keep your language and gestures respectful and free of profanity or obscenities. 4. Respect private, public and school property. 5. Be informed of laws and school rules regarding students’ rights and responsibilities.

Participation 1. Support and participate in school activities. 2. Remain on the school campus during the school day.

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Expression 1. Support the right to freedom of expression. 2. Ensure that your expressions do not interfere with the educational program or activities or with the rights of others. 3. Be sensitive to others in your choice of expressive clothing which you wear or carry, ensuring that it does not express obscene, racist or sexist language or slanderous, libelous, racist or sexist statements. 4. Be sensitive to others in your choice of expressive words, which you say or write, ensuring that they are not obscene, racist or sexist language, slanderous or libelous.

Parent Responsibilities Environment 1. Insist that your child is clean and dressed in compliance with school rules of sanitation and safety and in a fashion that will not disrupt classroom procedures. 2. Ensure that your child is free of communicable disease and in good health, insofar as possible. 3. Support school officials in maintaining a safe and orderly school environment, free of disruptions, which interfere with learning and teaching. 4. Ensure that your child understands school rules and/or the law concerning student’s use, possession, distribution or sale of tobacco, marijuana or controlled substances as defined under the Drug Control Act, drug paraphernalia as defined by the State of Pennsylvania, imitation controlled substances, nonprescription or prescription drugs or alcohol on school property, on the way to and from school, or while attending school-sponsored activities. 5. Ensure that you and your child understand that supplying, handling, using, transmitting or possessing any type of weapon on school property, on the way to or from school, or at any school-sponsored event are prohibited.

Education 1. Help support education for children, as provided by applicable federal, state and local statutes, without regard to race, religion, sex, creed, ability to pay, national origin, disability or intellectual ability. 2. Make certain you child’s attendance at school is regular and punctual and that all absences are properly excused. 3. Instill in your child the desire to learn. 4. Become acquainted with your child’s school, staff, curriculum and activities. 5. Ensure that your child has the necessary materials and supplies for classes and activities. 6. Ensure that your child has a quiet and proper place to study at home.

Respect 1. Guide your child, from the earliest years of his or her life, to develop socially acceptable standards, to exercise self-control and to be accountable for his or her actions. 2. Teach your child, by word or example, respect for the law, for the authority of the school and for the rights and property of others. 4

3. Know and understand the rules your child is expected to observe at school, be aware of the consequences for violation of these rules, and accept legal responsibility for your child’s actions. 4. Encourage your child to respect honest work and develop an interest in exploring broader fields of knowledge. 5. Accept the right of the Board of Trustees to require respectable behavior of all students and non-students at all activities involving the school. 6. Help your child understand and respect the purposes of schooling, learning and teaching.

Participation 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Parents will meet a minimum of four (4) hours per month of service work to the Academy. Send your child to school as required by the Pennsylvania School Code. Request and attend parent-teacher conferences. Attend school functions and activities with your child. Volunteer for school functions.

Expression 1. Encourage your child to conduct him or herself in an acceptable manner. 2. Encourage your child not to make obscene gestures or libelous, racist or sexist statement or to use intimidating tactics toward others. 3. Encourage your child not to interfere with the educational progress of others or the educational program through his or her use of inappropriate verbal or nonverbal expressions. 4. Encourage your child to dress appropriately so that his or her appearance will not disrupt the educational process or activities.

Teacher/Staff Responsibilities Environment 1. Reflect personal enthusiasm for teaching and learning and genuine concern for the individual student. 2. Express positive reinforcement for acceptable behavior. 3. Project the image of your profession, your school and education for everyone in a positive manner. 4. Be a professional and be a role model for students. 5. Refer to a counselor or an administrator for any student whose behavior requires special attention. 6. Report all incidents of suspected child abuse or neglect, as required by Pennsylvania Law.

Education 1. Guide learning activities so students learn to think and reason. 2. Provide opportunities for students to develop socially acceptable skills, attitudes and behavior. 3. Provide meaningful schoolwork for students with the expectation that all students can be successful. 5

4. Inform parents regarding student achievement and behavior and consult parents whenever necessary.

Respect 1. Guide students to assume responsibility for their actions and to respect the rights of others. 2. Be fair, firm and consistent in enforcing school rules on school property and at all schoolsponsored activities. 3. Demonstrate, by word and personal example, self-discipline and respect for the law. 4. Respect the dignity of everyone.

Participation 1. Assume the rights and responsibilities of shared decision-making. 2. Participate in the establishment of school rules and regulations regarding student behavior. Explain these rules to students and require observance of them. 3. Assist the administration of the school in developing school philosophy, objectives and procedures for the efficient and orderly operation of the school. 4. Participate in school activities. 5. Respond to all parent inquiries within twenty-four (24) hours.

Expression 1. 2. 3. 4.

Ensure that no one’s expressions interfere with the educational program. Encourage students to express themselves appropriately and respectfully. Do not use language that is obscene, slanderous, racist or sexist. Encourage students, parents, other teachers and staff to use language that is not obscene, slanderous, racist or sexist. 5. Represent your profession positively through your appearance and conduct at school and at school sponsored events. 6. Refrain from imitation of or participation in sexual harassment activities.

Administrator Responsibilities Environment 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Create the best teaching/learning conditions possible for student learning. Create a safe, caring school environment for everyone. Take the lead in establishing reasonable rules and regulations for the school. Make rules and regulations known and understood by students, parents, teachers and staff. Report all incidents of suspected child abuse or child neglect, as required by Pennsylvania Law.

Education 1. Organize school schedules and teaching assignments and require effective classroom management and instruction. 6

2. Maintain open lines of communication between school and home and between staff and administration. 3. Offer a compliment of student activities, which provide interesting activities for all students. 4. Encourage the recognition of student’s accomplishments.

Respect 1. Be fair, courteous, firm and consistent in all decisions affecting students, parents and staff. 2. Demonstrate, by word and personal example, respect for the law, self-discipline, and genuine concern for all persons.

Participation 1. Provide leadership by creating a school culture where shared decision making can flourish. 2. Become aquatinted with students and parents by visiting classrooms and attending school activities. 3. Receive teacher or staff referrals of students with behavioral problems, confer with these students, communicate with parents and set up cooperative procedures for correcting student behavior.

Expression 1. Do not use language that is obscene, racist, sexist or libelous. 2. Encourage and ensure that students, parent, teachers and other staff use appropriate expressions, which are not obscene, racist, sexist, slanderous, disruptive, libelous or intimidating. 3. Exemplify leadership qualities and represent your profession positively through your appearance and conduct at school and at school-sponsored activities. 4. Ensure that students, parents, teachers and staff members follow appropriate dress code for the school and for common decency and that the code is consistently and fairly enforced. 5. Be aware of and follow guidelines prohibiting sexual harassment.

Board of Trustees and Management Responsibilities Environment 1. Inform the community what is expected of students and what the consequences are when rules are violated. 2. Give full support to school staffs and others charged with the responsibility for managing the school.

Education 1. Maintain a well-trained staff at all levels. 2. Develop programs, which provide for all students, including those with special needs. 3. Provide vision for the school, which includes curricular programs and activities, designed to provide students with opportunities to learn and develop. 7

Respect Be fair, courteous and consistent in making decisions regarding those students whose behavior problems have been appealed to the Board of Trustees, in accordance with state law.

Participation 1. Become acquainted with the school, staff and students by visiting buildings regularly and attending school activities. 2. Encourage and support shared decision-making.

Expression 1. Provide guidelines and regulations to schools regarding appropriate expressions by students, parents, teachers and other staff members consistent with federal, state and local laws. 2. Ensure and protect freedom of expression for all publics and constituencies.

GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOR Attendance Students shall follow their assigned daily schedules unless properly excused by the principal or his/her authorized representative. Each student shall provide a satisfactory written explanation from his/her parent from any absence from class and for the release of a student from school during the school day. Justifiable absences include those due to illness of the student, death in the family, medical or dental appointment that cannot be scheduled during non-school hours, observance of a religious holiday, or other reasons acceptable to the principal.

Expressions and Limitations Students may exercise the right to freedom of expression through speech, assembly, petition and other lawful means and have the right to advocate change of any law, policy or regulation. The exercise of this right may not interfere with the rights of others, nor may oral or written student opinions be used to present material that falls into one or more of the following categories: 1. Materials that reasonably lead the principal to forecast substantial disruption or interference with school activities or that endangers the health or safety of students. 2. Material that is libelous or slanderous statements that are inaccurate or false and that injure the person as to his/her reputation, cause personal humiliation, mental anguish and suffering or other injuries. 3. Material that advocates the commission of a criminal act or is a criminal act, as defined by the Criminal Code of the United States, Pennsylvania, or the city of Philadelphia. 4. Material that is obscene as defined in the Pennsylvania School Code, as amended or local laws. 8

Distribution of Literature by Students The principal or his/her designee shall coordinate distribution or display of literature by students enrolled in the school. The material must be approved by the principal, must not be in violation of applicable Board of Trustees regulations, and must bear the name of the sponsoring individual(s) or school organization(s).

Search and Seizure Desks, lockers and storage spaces, which are provided to students without charge, are the property of the school. The principal or designee may have general inspections on a periodic basis and may open desks, lockers or storage spaces in the presence of a witness and examine the contents, including personal belongings of students when there are reasonable grounds to believe that they contain illegal drugs, contraband, weapons or stolen property, or that the student has violated or is violating state or federal laws, township codes or Board of Trustees policies or regulations, provided the search is conducted primarily for enforcing order and discipline for the school and not for criminal prosecution. Reasonable efforts to locate the student shall be made prior to the search. If the student is present, the school official shall advise him/her of the circumstances justifying the search and seizure of the objects that the official believes the search may disclose. Stolen items and items that are specifically prohibited by law, Board of Trustees regulations, and township or school regulations may be impounded. The student shall be given a receipt for any items impounded by school authorities and parents shall be notified of any items impounded.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION Definition of Discipline Discipline is the positive direction of behavior towards established standards of conduct fully understood and based upon reason, judgement and consideration of rights of others. Ideal discipline is self-directed and self-controlled. Schools, community and parents share the responsibility for helping students develop self-discipline. When self-control falters and selfdiscipline fails, disciplinary forces from outside the individual must be imposed to protect the rights of others and insure the uninterrupted instruction by teachers for students. In the Philadelphia Academy Charter School, as in the community at large, certain rules and procedures are established to guide the students through constructive growth and into mature adulthood. The rules and procedures are basically the same from kindergarten through grade eight. Parents, teachers and others responsible for the welfare and education of these students cooperate to interpret and enforce these rules.

Behaviors Warranting Disciplinary Action Students guilty of any of the following offenses shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, including suspension and expulsion, as set forth in the Pennsylvania School Code: 1. Absenteeism (including cutting of classes), unexcused or excessive 9

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. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46.

Aggressive behaviors, including but not limited to hitting, pushing and shoving Alcoholic beverages: possession, delivery, use or being under the influence of Arson or attempted arson Assault or attempted assault Cell phones and/or other telecommunication devices: possession of, except as considered necessary by principal Cheating and/or plagiarism Possession of dangerous articles: firearms, knives, metal pipes, sharpened implements, clubs, look-alike weapons, ammunition, etc. Defacing or destruction of school property or property of another Failure to report to or refusal to attend detention Disobedience to teacher or any other staff Disrespectful behavior toward teacher, staff or fellow classmate Disruption of class, study or instruction. Any violation of dress code Drugs and controlled substances: possession, use, distribution or being under the influence of Extortion or attempted extortion, harassment or intimidation Failure to report to an office as directed Fighting Fireworks, stink bombs or other explosives: possession, distribution, use or lighting of Any kind of forgery of notes or passes Any form of gambling or being present at scene Leaving class without teacher’s permission Leaving school grounds without proper authorization Lying/falsehood Misuse of school property or property of others Molesting others Using obscene gestures or language, writing or possessing of obscene articles or pictures Participating in or being in any way involved in a riot Presentation of forged notes or passes The use of profane language Refusal to follow directions of teacher or any other staff member Refusal to identify oneself properly Rude behavior to others Sexual harassment Sleeping in class Tardiness: unexcused or excessive Possession or use of tobacco products Trespassing while suspended Theft or attempted theft Threatening bodily harm, property damage, the use of threatening language or gestures Truancy from school Unauthorized entry into restricted areas Acts of violence Walkouts Any violation of code, policies of the Board of Trustees or local, state or federal law Any other conduct considered by the principal to be disruptive, disrespectful or disobedient

(The items in this list are grouped for purposes of easy reading only. This list is not exhaustive of behaviors that may result in disciplinary actions.)

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In the following six cases, discipline referrals must be made immediately to the principal: 1. Fighting 2. Abusive language directed toward the teacher or another student 3. Student actions that disrupt the class to the extent that the teacher’s authority is being challenged and the teacher is losing control of the class. 4. Student actions which indicate the use of drugs, alcohol or other altering substances. 5. Student actions that present a danger to the safety and well-being of anyone in the school 6. Other criminal acts in violation of any local, state or federal laws. Principals are expected to recommend expulsion for the following first-time offenses occurring on school property, at school-sponsored activities or for school-related reasons: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Arson or attempted arson Assault and/or battery of an employee or student Possession, use or sale of a firearm or dangerous weapon Manufacturing, growing, distribution and/or sale of drugs and/or paraphernalia Extortion, attempted extortion, robbery and/or larceny Immoral conduct Hazing Unlawful assembly and/or riot Possession, use, distribution, sale, lighting or discharge of explosive devices Students found guilty of a crime which resulted in or could have resulted in injuries to others, regardless of where the crime occurred

Discipline Procedures A school is judged by the actions of its students in and out of school. At all times when students are under school jurisdiction, they are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly, courteous, dignified and respectful manner. In an effort to maintain an orderly atmosphere in the school and on the school grounds, all teacher and adult authority extends to the student populous.

In-School Disciplinary Actions Disruptive student behavior is subject to disciplinary action by the teacher and/or principal. Actions taken by teachers towards students who are disruptive may include, but is not limited to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Time out in the classroom or other secure, supervised area A conference with the student A reprimand detention a conference with a parent

A discipline referral should be sent to the principal when the teacher feels that the student’s improper behavior cannot be corrected through the teacher’s classroom management practices. After consultation with the student and the teacher, the administrator will determine the course of action required to provide a safe, secure school. Action taken by an administrator toward a student may include, but is not limited to: 11

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

a conference with the student and/or the parent a reprimand entering into a behavioral contract between student, parent and administrator detention Saturday school In-school suspension (ISS) (up to three days) Out-of-school suspension (OSS) (up to ten days) Recommendation for long-term suspension (more than ten days) Recommendation for expulsion

For a student who has been suspended, the principal will require the parent to meet with him/her to re-instate the student to class and to discuss a corrective action plan addressing the display of the inappropriate behavior(s).

Definitions Out-of-school Suspensions are classified as: Short-term: Long-term: Expulsion: Notification:

The principal can suspend the student for up to ten days The student can be suspended for more than ten days following approval of the Principal’s recommendation by the Board of Trustees. A student can be expelled only by action of the Board of Trustees based upon Recommendation of the principal or designee. Expulsion from school excludes the student from regular school attendance. A letter and/or phone call from the principal or his/her designee will be sent to the student’s parents(s) when the student is assigned in-school suspension or outof-school suspension or is recommended for long-term suspension or expulsion.

The suspension notice for in-school suspension shall include at least the following information: 1. Reason(s) for the suspension and date(s) of suspension are to be clearly stated 2. A parent is expected to participate in a conference with the principal in order for the student to be readmitted to the regular classroom. 3. The student will not be allowed to participate in classroom and school activities during the suspension period. 4. Appeal procedures will be clearly stated If a student is assigned an in-school suspension, a parent will be expected to enter an agreement with the principal, which outlines the guidelines of the in-school suspension program. The suspension notice for out-of-school suspension (fewer than ten days) shall include at least the following information: 1. Reason(s) for the suspension and date(s) of suspension are to be clearly stated 2. A parent is expected to participate in a conference with the principal in order for the student to be readmitted to the school. 3. The student will not be allowed to participate in classroom and school activities during the suspension period 4. The student is not to go on school property 12

5. Appeal procedures will be clearly stated The suspension notice for long-term suspension/expulsion (greater than ten days) shall include at least the following information: First notice: 1. Reason(s) for the suspension and date(s) of suspension are to be clearly stated 2. A parent should be told that an investigation is being conducted by the administrators and what the most severe recommendation might be 3. A date and time for a conference is given when a parent, accompanied by the student, must come to school for a conference with the principal or designee to present and hear information. 4. The student will not be allowed to participate in classroom and school activities during the suspension period 5. The student is not to go on school property Following the conference, the principal will make a decision to move forward with a recommendation to the Board of Trustees for long-term suspension or expulsion and inform the parent(s) and student. If the principal moves forward with the recommendation, the principal will write to the President of the Board and send a copy of the notice to the parent(s). Second notice: 1. The proposed action and reason(s) for the recommendation are to be clearly stated. 2. The right of the student and his/her parent(s) or guardian to a hearing before the Board of Trustees or its designee(s) for long-term suspension and for expulsion recommendations. 3. The right to inspect the student’s school records. Subsequently, the principal will notify the student and his/her parent(s) or guardian of the time and place of the hearing with the Board of Trustees or its designee and the rights parents have in the process.

Appeal Procedures In-school Disciplinary Actions Should a parent disagree with disciplinary action of the school, other than out-of school suspensions or expulsions, the parent may appeal as follows: 1. Appeals should be made to the principal by arranging an appointment or by writing to the principal. 2. If the parent is dissatisfied with the result of the appeal to the principal, the parent may appeal to the Board of Trustees. Appeals must be filed in writing, within three school days of receipt by the parent of the principal’s notice of disciplinary action.

Out-of-school Suspension (ten days or fewer) Should a parent disagree with a suspension of ten days or fewer, the parent may appeal the decision of the principal as follows: 1. Appeal requests must be made in writing, by the parent, to the designee of the Board of Trustees. Such written request must be filed with the principal within three school days of the notice of suspension or the right to review and appeal is waived. 2. If the parent is dissatisfied with the designee’s decision, he/she may appeal the decision to the Board of Trustees by filing a written request of appeal within five school days, or the right to further appeal is waived. 13

In cases of immediate appeal, if the principal determines that the student’s presence at the school does not create a continuing danger to persons or property, or an ongoing threat of disruption, the student may be allowed to continue in school on a regular basis until the appeal is considered. A favorable decision will allow the student to continue in school, whereas a decision supporting the principal will require the student to serve the full suspension beginning the next school day after receiving notice of the decision. In situations where the student is excluded during the appeal process and the appeal is ultimately favorable to the student, opportunity will be provided for the completion of make-up assignments.

Long-term Suspensions (more than ten days) Following a hearing, should the parent disagree with the Board or designee’s decision to suspend for more than ten school days, the parent may appeal the decision to the Board of Trustees as follows: 1. Appeal requests must be made, in writing, to the principal. Such requests must be filed with the principal within five calendar days of the suspension decision, or the right to appeal is waived. 2. If the parent is dissatisfied with the designee’s decision, he/she may appeal the decision to the Full Board. The appeal must be in writing and must be filed with the principal within five calendar days of the designee’s decision or receipt of the decision by the parent of a student, or the right to appeal is forfeited.

Expulsions Following the principal’s recommendation for expulsion, a hearing will be held by the Board of Trustees.

RECORDS School records Students have the right to accurate and complete school records, maintained in accordance with applicable federal and state law. Accurate and complete records shall be maintained for each student enrolled in the Academy. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Parents have the right to inspect any and all records relating to their dependant. Students, with written parental permission, may inspect their own records. All inspections shall be conducted in the presence of a school representative. Information may be released to others only under carefully prescribed conditions. Nominal fees may be charged for duplication of records. School records may include the following: • • • • •

Name of the student in attendance or no longer in attendance Address Date and place of birth Telephone listing Other similar information

7. The educational records may be forwarded without parental consent or request to a school in which the student intends to enroll or has applied for admission. 14

PHILADELPHIA ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL K - 8 DRESS CODE/CODE OF CONDUCT (ADDENDUM) All students are required to wear Philadelphia Academy Charter School uniforms. Children must arrive in school clean and neatly groomed. Uniforms must be maintained throughout the school year – clean and without holes. Pants, shorts, and skorts must be worn at the waist and may not be rolled to shorten the length. Failure to adhere to the dress code will result in disciplinary action.

Regular Uniform Pants – Khaki or Navy Brown belt must be worn (except Kindergarten & 1st grade) No cargo pockets No jean or denim material Pants must be worn on the waist; low-riding or tightly fitting pants are not acceptable Khaki or Navy colored skort is also acceptable for girls. Shirt – Navy or Red polo shirt with PACS emblem Shirt must be tucked in at all times (except Kindergarten). Plain white short-sleeved t-shirt or school gym shirt may be worn underneath the polo shirt. Navy PACS sweatshirt or Navy cardigan sweater with PACS emblem may be worn over the uniform; no other sweatshirt or sweater is permitted. Brown shoes – Must tie (except for Kindergarten and 1st grade) Slip on shoes, boots or sneaks are not permitted. Socks – Navy or khaki colored; Girls may wear navy knee-highs, stockings or tights (no holes).

Gym Uniform (To be worn only on students’ assigned gym days) Navy t-shirt AND shorts with PACS emblem; white socks; white sneakers Solid navy cotton-blend sweatpants must be worn in the winter months; pants must be worn on the waistline. Navy PACS sweatshirt may be worn, if desired.

Optional Summer Uniform (1st day of school through October 15/April 15 through the last day of school) Khaki or Navy uniform shorts Regulation skort also permitted for girls (year-round) Regulation Navy or Red PACS polo shirt White socks & white sneakers

Grooming – Hair/Nails/Make-up Hair must be neat and clean. Extreme or fad hairstyles, hair dye, highlights are prohibited. Facial piercings are prohibited. Girls’ hair accessories must be simple and limited. Make-up, false nails, nail polish are prohibited. Boys’ hair must be off the collar and out of the face. Sideburns and facial hair are prohibited.

Jewelry – Please Note: The school is not responsible for lost or stolen jewelry. A standard wrist watch may be worn; no alarms are permitted. Girls may wear one post earring in each ear. A modest, religious necklace may be worn under the school shirt. No other jewelry is permitted (e.g. no rings, no bracelets, no anklets). 15

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Students  are  expected  to  be  in  attendance  each  school  day  unless  properly  excused  by   the  principal  or  his/her  authorized  representative.   Each  student  shall  provide  a  satisfactory  written  explanation  from  his/her  parent  or   legal  guardian  for  any  absence  from  class  and  for  the  early  release  of  a  student  from   school.       Early  dismissal  is  strongly  discouraged;  please  schedule  appointments  after  school  when   possible.    If  unavoidable,  the  teacher  must  have  a  note.       Early  dismissal  after  class  trip:    for  class  trips  returning  after  2:00  PM,  a  parent  who  has   chaperoned  the  trip  may  take  his/her  child  home.    (Siblings  must  remain  in  school  until   normal  dismissal  time.)    A  note  must  be  sent  in  stating  that  a  parent  will  be  taking  the   child  home  early.   Teacher  must  be  provided  a  note  within  2  days  of  any  absence  or  the  absence  will  be   coded  as  unexcused,  parental  neglect.   Family  vacations  are  strongly  discouraged  during  the  school  year.   Justifiable  absences  include  those  due  to     Illness  of  the  student   Death  in  the  family   Medical  or  dental  appointment  that  cannot  be  scheduled  during  non-­‐school   hours   Observance  of  a  religious  holiday   Other  reasons  acceptable  to  the  principal   nd Upon  2  day  of  absence,  family  needs  to  call  the  school.   Upon  3  days  of  consecutive  absence,  student  must  provide  an  original  doctor’s  note  (no   photocopies).   Ten  days  consecutive  unexcused  absences  by  state  law  is  considered  truancy  and  will  be   referred  to  the  proper  State  authorities.  

BUS BEHAVIOR If a student who normally rides the bus home from school will have a change in transportation, the parent must send in a note advising the school that the student will not be taking the bus home and identifying the alternative mode of transportation (i.e. parent will be picking him/her up in car line). When student behavior warrants intervention from the bus driver or bus aide, the following procedure will take place: FIRST OFFENSE –

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A  verbal  and  written  warning  will  be  given  to  the  Dean  of  Students.   The  Dean  of  Students  will  speak  to  the  student  and  give  the  classroom  teacher   the  warning  letter.   The  student’s  Parent/Legal  Guardian  will  sign  the  warning  and  return  it  to  the   teacher  the  next  day.    A  demerit  or  other  disciplinary  action  may  be  issued  if   warranted.   Electronic  devices  are  not  permitted  on  the  bus  or  in  school.   Eating  or  drinking  is  not  permitted  on  the  bus.  

REPEAT OFFENSES – As transportation is a privilege, repeat offenders may be removed from the bus first on a temporary basis and, if necessary, on a full time basis if the behavior(s) continue. 16

DISCIPLINARY CODE (Addendum) •

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All  students  are  expected  to  abide  by  the  Student  code  of  Conduct.    Inherent  in  this  is   the  Student  Dress  Code.    All  students  must  be  in  uniform  every  day  in  clothes  that  fit   properly  (see  Code  of  Conduct).    If  a  student  is  dressed  inappropriately,  a  parent/legal   guardian  will  be  required  to  bring  appropriate  clothes  to  school.    A  demerit  will  be   issued  if  the  parent/legal  guardian  is  unavailable  to  deliver  the  appropriate  clothing.   Shirts  must  be  tucked  in;  a  demerit  will  be  issued  for  failure  to  tuck  in  the  school  shirt.   Hair  must  be  neatly  groomed  (see  Code  of  Conduct);  a  demerit  will  be  issued  if  hair   length  becomes  too  long  or  unkempt.   In  middle  school  (grades  6  –  8),  morning  detention  (7:00  AM  –  8:00  AM)  will  be  assigned   for  incomplete  homework  assignments.    Failure  to  attend  morning  detention  will  result   in  a  Saturday  detention  (8:00  AM  –  11:00  AM).    Three  morning  detentions  will  result  in  a   Saturday  detention.   Three  demerits  for  any  reason  will  result  in  a  Saturday  detention.     Three  Saturday  detentions  will  result  in  a  suspension.    Failure  to  attend  an  assigned   detention  will  result  in  a  suspension.    Three  suspensions  will  result  in  a  recommendation   for  expulsion.   If  specific  behaviors  continue  after  a  Saturday  detention  has  been  served,  the  student   may  be  suspended.   A  student  may  move  directly  to  suspension  if  the  behavior  warrants.   Once  a  student  is  suspended  a  behavior  plan  may  be  developed  by  a  team  which  may   include  parents,  teachers,  dean  of  students,  coordinator,  principal  and/or  behavior   specialist.    This  plan  will  set  specific  requirements  for  subsequent  disciplinary  actions   which  may  include  future  suspensions  followed  by  a  referral  for  expulsion.      

PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS Snow Emergency –

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All  snow  emergency  information  will  be  announced  on  KYW-­‐1060  News  radio.     Our  school  number  is  131.   Emergency  information  will  also  be  posted  on  the  school’s  website   (pacsweb.org)   If  PACS  is  opening  late,  students  may  not  arrive  earlier  than  30  minutes  before   the  announced  opening  time.   For  example,  if  there  is  a  two-­‐hour  delay,  students  may  begin  to  arrive  at  9:30   and  go  to  the  lunchroom.   If  PACS  is  open  without  transportation,  transportation  will  not  be  provided  in   the  afternoon.   If  school  is  closing  early,  students  will  follow  their  normal  mode  of   transportation.    Students  who  are  normally  picked  up  by  their  parents  will   remain  at  school  until  they  are  picked  up.    They  must  be  picked  up  within  one   hour  of  the  early  closing.  

Drop-off & Pick-up Students are to be dropped off at the back door. Late students (arriving after 8:00 AM) should be dropped off at the front lobby for a late slip prior to admittance to the classroom. 17

Students should be picked up at the parent pick-up in the rear of the school. Parents should park in the designated rows in the parking area as marked. DO NOT reverse your auto at any time. If your child is not picked up by 3:15 PM, they will be sent to aftercare, and you will be billed accordingly. Any changes to normal pick-up procedures must be provided in writing to the main office. Change of Address – Please send a note to the office as soon as there is any change in address or phone number. Latex – Our school is a latex-free facility. No latex balloons or gloves are permitted. Electronic Devices – Not permitted in school or on the school bus. This includes CD’s, IPods, cell phones, games, etc. Lunch Envelopes – Due on Thursday or Friday of the previous week to ensure an adequate supply of food.

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PHILADELPHIA ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL K - 8 CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT A Partnership in Responsibility

CLOSING “The Code of Student Conduct – A Partnership in Responsibility” has been developed to communicate the responsibilities that all stakeholders share in ensuring every student a safe, secure place for learning. Our partnership relies on promises kept, trust, good faith and a commitment to the well being of all students. My signature below reflects my intentions to live up to this compact and all of the provisions concerned.

_____________________________________ Student

_____________________________________ Parent

_____________________________________ Principal

_____________________________________ Board member

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