Founders Classical Academy Leander, TX Family Handbook 2017-2018 Last updated August 1, 2017

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If, therefore, there is some end of our actions that we wish for on account of itself…clearly this would be the good, that is, the best. And with a view to our life, then, is not the knowledge of this good of great weight, and would we not, like archers in possession of a target, better hit on what is needed? Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book I Come, my friends, ‘Tis not too late to seek a newer world. Push off, and sitting well in order smite The sounding furrows; for my purpose holds To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths Of all the western stars, until I die. It may be that the gulfs will wash us down: It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles, And see the great Achilles, whom we knew. Tho’ much is taken, much abides; and tho’ We are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are; One equal temper of heroic hearts, Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield. Alfred, Lord Tennyson, “Ulysses”

Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Table of Contents Welcome from the Headmaster Purpose of the Founders Classical Academy Family Handbook Section 1: School Hours Section 2: The Mission of Founders Classical Academy A. Mission Statement B. What is a Charter School? Section 3: Curriculum A. Course of Study B. Grading Grade Reporting and High School Transcripts C. Promotion Grammar School (K-6) Upper School (7-12) D. Latin E. Homework Late Homework F. Study Hall G. State Assessments STAAR Exams End-of-course (EOC) Exams H. Controversial Issues Religion & Religious Expression Human Sexuality I. High School Graduation Requirements Latin and Foreign Language Mathematics Senior Thesis Additional Graduation Policies College Counseling and Acceptance Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Dual Credit Course Requests Grade Level Classification Outline of Upper School Coursework J. Ranking K. Awards Honor Roll End of the Year Awards Subject Awards Kindergarten -3rd Grade 4th-6th Grade 7th-12th Grade Spartan Award Achilles Award Homer Award Aeneas Award Odysseus Award Section 4: Decorum and Discipline Decorum Core Virtues Attendance The 90% Rule Unexcused Absences Excused Absences Make-up Work Truancy Tardies Early Departures Doctors’ Appointments Transportation Changes College Visit Absence Requests School Uniform Formal Wednesday Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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PE Clothing House Colors Socks and Tights Outerwear Shoes Backpacks, Lunchboxes, Water Bottles, and Bags Personal Appearance Jewelry Makeup Hair Accessories General Decorum Classroom Campus Academic Honesty B. Discipline Disciplinary Action Poor Behavior Slips Pink Slips Bullying Section 5: School Activities Upper School House System B. Extracurricular Activities School Clubs TCSAAL and TAIAO Athletics Policies External PE Credit C. Field Trips Chaperones D. School Dances Dress Code for Dances Formal Attire Semi Formal Attire Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Casual Attire Section 6: Procedures and Policies A. Daily Procedures School Day Drop-off and Pick-up Instructions for Hang Tags Late Pick Up Grammar School Assembly Pledges and Morning Assemblies All School Assembly Pledges of Allegiance The American Pledge of Allegiance The Texas Pledge of Allegiance School Meals & Lunchtime Snacks Medication B. General Campus Policies Inclement Weather Illness Network & Internet Access Videos Electronic Devices Visitors on Campus Sex Offenders Parent Visits Classroom Observations Volunteering Archers Council Watch D.O.G.S. Lost and Found Operation of Motor Vehicles on Campus Parking Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Parent-School Communication Grievances Textbooks Withdrawals Section 7: Appendices Appendix A: Alma Mater Appendix B: Guidelines for Founders Archer Volunteers (FAVs) How to become an approved volunteer How to start volunteering Founders Archer Volunteers Calendar How to log and monitor your Archer Hours Volunteer Job Descriptions During the school day On your own time Archers Council How to Be a Successful Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions about Volunteering Appendix C: Athletic Code of Conduct 2017-2018 Objectives of the Founders Leander Athletic Program Athletic Code Requirements for Participation Physical Examination Emergency Medical Authorization Parental Acknowledgement of Athletic Policies Scholastic Eligibility Equipment Responsibilities Athletic Training Rules Philosophy of Winning and Participation Middle School 9/10 and Junior Varsity (JV) Varsity Resolving Athletic Issues Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Rosters Dual Participation Physical Education and Participation Uniform Policy Acknowledgement Appendix D: Statement on Bowties Appendix E: Student and Parent Agreement

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Welcome from the Headmaster Dear parents, Welcome to Founders Classical Academy, and thank you for choosing this place among the many schooling options you have. The mission of Founders Classical Academy is to train the minds and improve the hearts of young men and women through a rigorous, classical education in the liberal arts and sciences, with instruction in good character and civic virtue. It is a high calling, and a difficult one. But it is a calling that can be realized if we are clear in our aims and joined together by common purpose. Parents, in choosing classical education for your child, you have chosen a more difficult path, but one that brings great rewards for those who travel it well. Our school hopes not merely to care for your students, but to help them fill their minds with knowledge. Our methods are the old-fashioned ones—we diagram sentences, we read the great and difficult books, we memorize and recite poetry, we do mathematical proofs. We do things the hard way because we know that there are no shortcuts when it comes to understanding, and because we believe that the things we study are worth the effort. At Founders Classical Academy, we want to really know things, not just appear to know them. We stand against many of the trends that have overtaken American education for the sake of providing something increasingly rare: an education that is good for its own sake. At Founders Classical Academy, we believe that a liberal education in the sciences and the humanities is inherently good—something worth having apart from the many good things that can come from it. Schools like ours often produce impressive students; graduating seniors with high SAT scores, excellent college applications, and the opportunity to be doctors or lawyers once they finish college. We hope that our first graduates will be impressive as well, but we do not think that making them merely impressive is the primary mission of our school. We believe that even the highest accolades are worth nothing if the person who earns them doesn’t deserve them. In the end, what good does a perfect SAT score do for a human being who lacks the virtues? Instead we think that our work is to help our students learn to be good, to teach them to be men and women with sound minds and well-formed characters. We hope to help them become thoughtful judges of their own happiness and forces for what is right in the world. At Founders Classical Academy, we resist the approach popular in so many schools today--to use the K-12 years as a time for training in a particular trade or profession. Some schools measure their success by what kinds of jobs their students get, but we set our sights on a much higher prize. Liberal education, education that is good for its own sake, is the education that makes human beings free—free to consider the world it as it is and endeavor to understand it over time. Liberal education Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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teaches an independence that it unavailable to a person trained for a particular career in a particular set of skills. The liberally educated person is open to the world, but also well grounded in knowledge and in virtue, so he or she is free to ask the most important questions for human beings and then reason through those questions well. The liberally educated person understands himself, and because he knows that his character is his most important possession, he cares for it above all. In choosing Founders Classical Academy, you have chosen a very particular kind of place. To honor the choice that you have made, we promise to treat your students’ education as an end in itself. We promise to help them learn to be virtuous, not just credentialed. We promise to educate them to be thinkers, not merely to train them for a particular profession. We promise to challenge them to help them see what they are capable of. We promise to pursue the truth without shame and without agenda. We promise to help your students know themselves, and to help them cultivate their minds and their characters in accordance with virtue. We ask that you support our school in the community and to your children. This important and difficult education relies upon a close partnership between parent and teacher. Because a classical school aims for more than just supervising students, or training them for careers, we cannot go about our work without you. We ask that you get to know us, and get to know classical education. We encourage you to learn about our curriculum and the mission of our school by visiting our website. We invite you to schedule observations of our classrooms to see firsthand what your student is learning and how instruction in a classical school works. When you have questions about something your student is learning or a method used by a teacher, we hope you will ask us. We hope you will display to your students the core virtues we teach—courage, moderation, justice, responsibility, friendliness, prudence, and wisdom. Help us teach them to understand themselves and to develop the good habits that lead to moral virtue. Above all, help us demonstrate to them that learning is not just for young people. Show them through example that curiosity about the world along with the good judgment to understand it well is the truest and best source of human happiness. I thank you for your support of our school, and I look forward to another excellent school year. Sincerely, Dr. Kathleen O’Toole Headmaster

Purpose of the Founders Classical Academy Family Handbook Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Added July 2015

This handbook is our first and most important founding document. It describes the policies and procedures that will guide us as we work together to fulfill the school’s mission. It exists alongside the Responsive Education Solutions Parent/Student Handbook, which governs the larger operations of our district. This handbook will be amended from time to time, as changes and additions become necessary. Changes will be announced when they are made and the policies affected will be marked clearly with the date of the addition or revision. Students and parents begin the year by reading the handbook and signing the oath included at the back. In signing their names, they agree to abide by the policies named in this document and become a member of an important partnership between family and school.

Section 1: School Hours Founders Classical Academy 1303 Leander Drive Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Leander, TX 78641 School Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am -3:30pm (K-12) Front Office: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:00pm Closed weekends and major holidays Email: [email protected] Attendance email: [email protected] Phone: (512) 259-0103

Section 2: The Mission of Founders Classical Academy A. Mission Statement

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The mission of Founders Classical Academy is to train the minds and improve the hearts of young men and women through a rigorous, classical education in the liberal arts and sciences, with instruction in good character and civic virtue.

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B. What is a Charter School? Charter schools are free public schools, open to all. Unlike other public schools, charter schools are given flexibility in crafting their mission, designing their curriculum, and hiring their faculty. The result is a unique and innovative educational model that responds to the needs of students and their families. All students are welcome to apply to a charter school and if the number of applicants exceeds the number of available spots, students are chosen by lottery. The state of Texas has outlined 5 main purposes for its charter school system. Charter schools are intended to: 1. improve student learning, 2. increase the choice of learning opportunities within the public school system, 3. create professional opportunities that will attract new teachers to the public school system, 4. establish a new form of accountability for public schools, 5. and encourage different and innovative learning methods. Founders Classical Academy of Leander operates under a charter of Responsive Education Solutions (RES) that embraces all of these aims. RES has created a variety of models for their charters and successfully operates over 60 campuses in the state of Texas alone, constituting one of the largest charter districts in the state. Founders Classical Academy of Leander is RES’s third classical charter school, and was opened following the success of two others in Lewisville, Texas and Bentonville, Arkansas. Founders Classical Academy of Leander also maintains a partnership with the Barney Charter School Initiative at Hillsdale College. With Hillsdale’s assistance, we have developed a rigorous classical curriculum that nourishes the natural curiosity of children, promotes civic virtue, and develops the whole human being – mind, body, and soul. The mission of Founders Classical Academy of Leander is to train the minds and improve the hearts of young men and women through a rigorous, classical education in the liberal arts and sciences, with instruction in good character and civic virtue. Our freedom to innovate allows us to return to time-tested methods of instruction, including teacher-centered education and a traditional curriculum that focuses on the greatest books and thinkers of the Western tradition.

Section 3: Curriculum

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The curriculum at Founders Classical Academy teaches cultural literacy and emphasizes the intellectual and moral virtues through a content-rich, cohesive course of study. Our aim is to cultivate a love of the just, the beautiful, the good, and the true, and to make the pursuit of these things a way of life. We acknowledge objective standards of correctness, logic, and gravity whereby these may be judged. Our hope is not merely to teach students skills but to enrich their lives and inspire their souls. The Western tradition is central to our study of history, literature, and philosophy, and within the Western tradition we single out America for particular attention. We engage in a rich and recurring examination of the American literary, moral, philosophical, political, and historical traditions. The proper study of these areas relies on and fosters a school culture demanding moral virtue, decorum, respect, discipline, and studiousness among the students and faculty. Our faculty is made up of well-educated men and women who lead the students in the pursuit of knowledge. The teacher begins as the center of attention, and through him or her the material achieves its place as the focus of learning. All of this is directed toward one end, the lasting happiness of our students as they become citizens and thinkers in their own right. A. Course of Study Founders Classical Academy is divided into two schools, the Grammar School, serving Kindergarten through 6th grade, and the Upper School, serving 7th through 12th grades. As a whole, the curriculum is designed around the following principles: 1) The centrality of the Western tradition in the study of history, literature, and philosophy; 2) A rich and recurring examination of the American literary, moral, philosophical, political, and historical traditions; 3) The use of explicit phonics instruction for the teaching of reading; 4) The teaching of Latin; 5) The acknowledgement of objective standards of correctness, logic, beauty, weightiness, and truth intrinsic to the liberal arts; 6) A school culture demanding moral virtue, decorum, respect, discipline, and studiousness among the students and faculty; 7) A curriculum that is content-rich; 8) A faculty where well-educated and articulate teachers explicitly convey real-world knowledge to students using traditional teaching methods; 9) The effective use of technology without diminishing the faculty leadership that is crucial to academic achievement. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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B. Grading Grades indicate how well a student has mastered a particular subject. Teachers will assign grades in order to reflect accurately the range between true mastery and insufficient knowledge. Grade inflation will be discouraged. In Kindergarten and 1st grade we will use the following marks: E = Excellent performance S = Satisfactory performance N = Performance needs improvement U = Unsatisfactory performance In 2nd Grade through 12th grade, we will use the following grading scale: A AB+ B BC+ C CF

Grading scale 94-100% 90-93.9% 87-89.9% 84-86.9% 80-83.9% 77-77.9% 74-76.9% 70-73.9% 0-69.9%

GPA 4.00 3.70 3.30 3.00 2.70 2.30 2.00 1.70 0.00

Students will receive report cards every 9 weeks. Only semester grades will count toward a student’s grade point average in the Upper School. A semester grade for a class is the average (rounded to a tenth) of the numeric grades (percentages) from the two quarters in that semester. In order to calculate a GPA, numeric grades are converted into points based on the grading scale above. Points are awarded for each class at the end of a semester. The semester GPA is calculated by totaling those points and averaging them by the number of classes taken that semester. A final GPA is determined by adding all the points from each semester and averaging them. GPAs are rounded to a hundredth. Grade Reporting and High School Transcripts Added July 2016 Updated July 2017

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Founders Classical Academy does not inflate student grades, since doing so prevents students from taking responsibility for their own improvement and from reaping the rewards of sustained hard work. Nevertheless, much of the larger academic world does not share our view, and to ignore this would do a disservice to our students as they apply for colleges and scholarships. In order to maintain the integrity of our students’ education and achievements while recognizing the pressures of the broader academic world, Founders Classical Academy has adopted the following grading policy: For purposes of official high school transcripts only, certain courses will be given additional weight on the standard 4-point scale as follows: ● All core courses (Literature, History, Science, Mathematics, and Languages) are denoted as honors level, receiving a half-point (0.5) weight. ● Core courses that qualify students for the most advanced state diploma (Distinguished Level) are denoted as advanced or AP level, receiving a full-point (1.0) weight. ● Courses taken as part of a modified graduation plan through the instructional services department will be reported on a standard 4-point scale. For ranking, report cards, retention and promotion decisions, club and athletic eligibility, honor roll designations, eligibility for in-school honors, and for all other purposes, the standard 4-point scale applies. Students completing high school level courses in middle school are awarded credit and final grades are placed on the transcript. Beginning in the 2017-18 school year, any high school level courses completed in 8th grade will also be factored into a student’s final high school GPA. Because weighting procedures and level of rigor vary greatly from institution to institution, the final GPA reported on the transcript is based on courses taken at Founders only. Courses and final grades earned outside of Founders are listed on the transcript. For college applications, students may choose to provide a transcript from their previous high school if they believe it will strengthen their application. C. Promotion Grammar School (K-6) Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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A student will be considered for promotion only if he or she can read just above grade level and is competent in the other core subjects (English, Math, History, Science, and in sixth grade, Latin). In addition, students in Kindergarten through second grade must achieve minimum levels of competence in Riggs phonograms. Upper School (7-12) A student must attain a 1.7 GPA (C- or higher) in each of the core subjects (English, Math, History, Science, Latin) to pass to the next grade. Students must retake over the summer core courses for which they receive a failing grade. Because Founders Classical Academy does not offer summer school, students will need to earn credit through another suitable program approved by the Headmaster. D. Latin Part of what distinguishes our curriculum is the study of Latin, the language of the ancient Romans. In 3rd Grade students begin to learn Latin root words, and they continue their formal study of Latin through Upper School. But why study Latin? There are at least four reasons. The first and most important is that some of the best books in the history of the West are written in Latin. Thomas Jefferson, in proposing a course of study for the state of Virginia, claimed, I think the Greeks & Romans have left us the present models which exist of fine composition...I know of no composition of any other ancient people, which merits the least regard as a model for its matter or style. To all this I add, that to read the Latin & Greek authors in their original, is a sublime luxury.... I thank on my knees, him who directed my early education, for having put into my possession this rich source of delight; and I would not exchange it for anything which I could then have acquired, & have not since acquired. According to Jefferson, reading Latin teaches us about good writing, which nourishes the mind and teaches one to love what is well-ordered and beautiful. A second reason to study Latin is that the West—Europe and America—is in large part rooted in Roman civilization. Some phrases we easily recognize, such as those in our sciences (homo sapiens), in our Constitution (habeas corpus, ex post facto) and in more familiar expressions such as A.D, i.e., and e.g. Further study in Latin teaches us about who we are as the descendants of Western civilization. A third reason is that Latin requires a high degree of discipline and focus. Students who study Latin develop the confidence that comes with hard work and are in turn better prepared to study other Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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romance languages. A final and related reason is that Latin helps students understand English, preparing them to write more clearly and read more closely. E. Homework Homework is an important part of a classical education. Students who do not actively and consistently contribute to their own education, both in class and at home, will fall behind and sell themselves short. Homework takes place in the home, with all of the distractions that come with it. We encourage parents to provide a calm, quiet place for their children to complete their work. Television, music, movies, and video games seldom contribute to real learning, and we suggest that these be restricted while students are studying. At best this will extend homework time beyond what one would typically need and at worst will hinder real learning. Every student will have some homework every day. Students in the Grammar School should spend 20 to 30 minutes every evening reading, whether or not reading homework is assigned. We encourage you to choose a book to read as a family, and make a little progress on it every night. As a general rule, a student can expect 10 minutes of homework per grade level. So, a 1st grader will have approximately 10 minutes of homework per night and a 6th grader will have approximately 60 minutes, or one hour. In the Upper School, students can expect to have 1.5 to 2 hours of homework per night.

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Late Homework Added July 2015 Updated July 2016

It is very important that students complete homework well and on time. Homework provides essential practice following a lesson and important preparation for the lessons to come. Failing to complete homework when it is assigned can cause a student to fall behind and compromise his or her understanding for days to come. In grades 3-12, teachers will penalize daily homework assignments that are late according to the following rules: 1 day late: 25% off the final grade 2 days late: 50% off the final grade 3 days late: 100% off the final grade; automatic 0 Penalties on late papers and major assignments will vary by subject and class. Younger students who do not complete a homework assignment have their class behavior clip moved down, and they may be required to miss recess in order to complete the assignment. If the assignment cannot be completed at recess, the student has 1 extra day to complete it with a deduction from that week’s participation grade. If the assignment is not completed after an extra day, then the student will receive a deduction from the week’s participation grade and no credit for the assignment. Penalties on late papers and major assignments will vary by subject and class. F. Study Hall Amended July 2015 Amended July 2016

Students in 6th through 12th grade will have a 30-minute study hall each day. During this time, they must either work on their homework or, with permission, receive assistance from a teacher. G. State Assessments The state of Texas requires standardized testing (STAAR exams) in reading and math for Grades 3-8, as well as writing in 4th and 7th grade, science in 5th and 8th grade, and social studies in 8th Grade. Texas also requires exams in several high-school subjects, called “end of course” exams or “EOCs.” While we are required to participate in these exams and will take them seriously

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when they arrive in the spring, our approach differs from that in many public schools and deserves a comment. Our curriculum is not designed around the STAAR and our teachers do not “teach to the test.” We do dedicate some time to test preparation, but to do so excessively would detract from the classical course of study that Founders provides. Test preparation has less to do with content than it does with the form and manner in which test questions are written, as well as the order in which certain subjects are placed in the general state curriculum. Our curriculum in Grammar School math, for instance, follows a rational order that deepens and broadens student knowledge, but not in an order that aligns perfectly with the math subjects in the STAAR exams. In order to do well on these assessments, then, we will supplement our curriculum where necessary. STAAR Exams 3rd Grade: Mathematics and Reading 4th Grade: Mathematics, Reading, and Writing 5th Grade: Mathematics, Reading, and Science 6th Grade: Mathematics and Reading 7th Grade: Mathematics, Reading, and Writing 8th Grade: Mathematics, Reading, Science, and Social Studies End-of-course (EOC) Exams Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, U.S. History Please consult the school calendar for the STAAR testing schedule. On STAAR testing dates, campus is closed and students may not be picked up early from school. Please plan accordingly. For more information about state testing, please consult the RES Parent/Student Handbook. H. Controversial Issues While we encourage thoughtful questioning and lively discussion of the texts and issues that we study in class, some topics are particularly sensitive and must be treated with special care. Problems, subjects, and questions of a controversial nature will be presented carefully, keeping in mind that the discovery of the truth is the primary goal of learning. Religion & Religious Expression Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Western civilization has had and continues to have an ongoing, vigorous, and thoughtful conversation concerning the place of religion in human life. We will encourage such discussions as they arise from the material that students engage, and will respect the diverse viewpoints that such a topic elicits, so long as those views are offered respectfully and with the solemnity they merit. For more information, please consult the RES Parent/Student Handbook. Human Sexuality Updated February 2015

All of our actions and relationships are bound up with questions of morality, of doing the right thing in changing circumstances At Founders Classical Academy we believe that moral questions are primarily the family’s responsibility, and that formal education ought to play a supporting role. Sexuality is one such moral question, extending far beyond mere biology to modesty, the place of the family in human life, love, spirituality, and powerful emotions. We will therefore teach it responsibly, respectfully, and with the sensitivity it deserves. We believe children, despite their curiosity, are not ready to learn everything at once and we will respect their natural innocence as much as possible. The Core Knowledge curriculum includes a discussion of the reproductive organs and reproduction in 5th Grade. These subjects will be taught in a gender-separated environment. Parents will have the opportunity to preview the materials the class will be reading. Parents will also have the opportunity to attend a meeting with the teacher(s) prior to the section on sexuality. Sexual intercourse will only be discussed in the context of marriage. Parents may choose to have their children opt out of this portion of the class, which will be taught during the regular science time. Sex education will be taught in the Upper School in the context of human health. Just as in the elementary school, sex education will be taught in a gender-separated environment. Sexuality will be taught as naturally directed to the rearing of children and as an aspect of a monogamous marriage. The moral and physical consequences of promiscuous sex will be made plain. In the Upper School themes related to sexuality and love will emerge from the reading of a serious text, such as The Scarlet Letter, The Aeneid, The Republic, or Brave New World. When these topics do emerge from the curriculum itself, teachers will engage the material with all of the moral seriousness that it merits. In the higher grades, students may be involved in discussions concerning sexuality and sexual restraint as these issues affect their living a moral and responsible life. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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I. High School Graduation Requirements Updated July 2015

High School students must complete at least 28 credits of coursework and earn a diploma at the Distinguished level of achievement. The requirements include at least: 1. 4 credits (4 years) of Literature 2. 4 credits (4 years) of History 3. 4 credits (4 years) of Mathematics 4. 4 credits (4 years) of Science 5. 3 credits of Latin, usually earned over 4 years* 6. 1 credit (1 year) of Fine Arts 7. 1 credit (2 semesters) of Physical Education 8. 0.5 credit (1 semester) of Composition 9. 0.5 credit (1 semester) of Rhetoric 10. 0.5 credit (1 semester) of Economics 11. 0.5 credit (1 semester) of American Government 12. 2 credits (2 years) of Philosophy 13. 3 additional elective credits 14. a senior thesis and defense Latin and Foreign Language Updated July 2015 Updated July 2017

A student must demonstrate competence in Latin I, II, and III. If a student enters the high school having already completed this Latin requirement, he or she must take 3 years (6 semesters) of another foreign language during high school. Modifications to the Latin requirement may be made for students who arrive too late to complete the full three years of Latin. These modifications will be made only by permission of the Headmaster. After the successful completion of Latin III a student may choose either to study a modern foreign language or continue with Latin. In the senior year students who have completed the Latin requirement may choose an elective course in a different discipline in place of a language course. Mathematics Added July 2017

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All students are required to follow the mathematics course sequence through PreCalculus. After successful completion of Pre-Calculus students will be placed into Calculus AB, Calculus BC, or another advanced math course based on the recommendations of the Pre-Calculus teacher and by approval of the Headmaster. Senior Thesis Updated July 2017

The senior thesis is the culmination of a student’s classical education and a rite of passage to a life of virtue and self-government. The student’s thesis may concentrate on books, events, or themes that draw upon any of the core courses and should serve as a capstone project, one which brings together the things a student has learned during his or her time at the school. Every senior will write, orally deliver, and defend a thesis on a topic of his or her choosing that emerges from the curriculum. Each student will adapt his or her paper into a speech which will be delivered publically and then defended to a panel of faculty members. A satisfactory performance on the writing and presentation of the thesis is required for graduation. Students must complete a senior thesis in order to graduate from high school and present that thesis in a formal setting. The topic for every student is the following: “What is the good life? Describe a person, historical or fictional, who exemplifies that life.” Additional Graduation Policies Updated July 2017

Students will not have free periods. Study hall will be allowed for students who are exempt from the PE requirement because of after-school athletics, but all other students must fill every period of the 7-period day. A student who transfers to Founders Classical Academy after the 9th grade may need to take an additional course to make up for the credit missed. In this situation the Headmaster will work with the student and parents on scheduling and finding appropriate coursework. Students who complete the highest level of a subject offered at Founders prior to the 12th grade may take courses at a local college to fill the graduation requirements. No Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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student may take off campus or online courses for credit without the prior approval of the Headmaster. College Counseling and Acceptance The College Counseling Office exists to support students in determining their postsecondary plans. While we realize that not every student will attend college, or perhaps not attend college immediately, it is our goal that our graduates have excellent opportunities from which to choose - college, workforce, military, gap year, travel, or service - and that we have aided them with the resources and guidance to pursue these opportunities. Every student, prior to graduating, must apply to at least two colleges and must be accepted to at least one. Waivers are available for those needing assistance with testing or application fees. Contact the College Counselor for more information. Please consult the RES Parent/Student handbook for further information on the initiative to maintain 100% college acceptance for graduates from Responsive Ed schools. Dual Credit Course Requests High school students wishing to request permission to enroll in summer dual-credit courses must meet the following requirements: 1. The student must be on track to graduate on time and have passed the required TAKS/EOC tests for the previous year. 2. The student must be classified as a sophomore or higher based upon credits earned. 3. The student must have achieved a minimum GPA of 3.3 for the previous year. 4. The student must have no disciplinary or attendance problems. Students must submit a “Dual Credit Request Form” to the College Counseling Office. All requests require a minimum of two weeks’ notice for review and processing and will be assessed on an individual basis. Grade Level Classification Grade level classification of students is composed of two requirements: Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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● ●

Units of credit for each grade (see below) Sequence of courses for each grade and prerequisites for each course

Grade level classification is based on these units of credit earned: ● ● ●

Sophomore: 7 units of credit Junior: 13 units of credit Senior: 19 units of credit

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Outline of Upper School Coursework Updated July 2015

7th Grade

8th Grade

Literature and Composition Core Knowledge History and Geography Singapore Pre-Algebra* Core Knowledge Science Latin IB* Core Knowledge Art and Music Physical Education

Literature and Composition Core Knowledge History and Geography Singapore Pre-Algebra or Algebra I* Core Knowledge Science Latin II* Core Knowledge Art and Music Physical Education

9th Grade

10th Grade

Literature I Western Civilization I Algebra I or Geometry* Biology Latin III* Composition (Half Credit) Rhetoric (Half Credit) Elective

Literature II Western Civilization II and III (Two Credits) Geometry or Algebra II* Chemistry Latin, or other Foreign Language* Elective

11th Grade

12th Grade

Literature III American History Algebra II or Pre-Calculus* Physics Philosophy and Political Thought I Latin, or other Foreign Language* Elective

Literature IV Pre-Calculus or other Advanced Math* Astronomy or other Advanced Science Economics (Half Credit) American Government (Half Credit) Philosophy and Political Thought II Latin, or other Foreign Language* Elective

* Student achievement, not grade level, determines progress through the mathematics and foreign language curricula.

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J. Ranking Updated July 2017

Due to the overall rigor of the curriculum and the small size of each class, Founders does not report rank. An exception is made for the ranking of valedictorian, salutatorian, and the top 10 percent of each graduating class. Students who are in the top 10% of their graduating class (top 7% for University of Texas at Austin, only), who meet the Texas standard for distinguished coursework, and who complete at least 26 credits, are eligible for assured admission to any public university or college in Texas under state law. For assured admissions, rank will be determined the summer before the senior year. For those qualifying, Founders will provide to Texas universities a letter of rank with their official transcript. Please consult the RES Parent/Student handbook for further information on standards for assured admission. Final rank for seniors will be based solely on the classes taken at Founders. Students must have been enrolled at Founders for at least the full junior and senior years to be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian. The student with the highest, unweighted cumulative grade point average in non-elective courses will be selected as valedictorian, and the student with the next highest GPA will be selected as salutatorian. Students who have been disciplined for plagiarism or cheating while in high school cannot be valedictorian or salutatorian. The system of ranking students who have attended for different numbers of years will be as follows: ● Students who have attended for four years will have their cumulative GPAs compared. ● Students who have attended for three years will have their cumulative GPAs compared to the three-year averages (sophomore-senior) of the above students. ● Students who have attended for two years will have their cumulative GPAs compared to the two-year averages (junior-senior) of the above students. ● Students who have attended for only one year will not be ranked. Nonetheless, in writing letters of recommendation to colleges, the college counselor will inform admissions officers if the student otherwise would have been ranked in his or her graduating class had he or she attended for more than one year.

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In the unlikely event of a tie for a certain place, final rank will be determined by faculty committee. K. Awards

Added July 2015 Updated July 2016 Updated July 2017

Honor Roll Students with excellent academic achievement will be recognized at the end of each quarter with a place on the Honor Roll and High Honor Roll. Students in the Grammar School (K-1st) will be awarded a place on the Honor Roll for earning all E’s. There is no High Honor Roll for these grades. Students in the Grammar School (2nd-6th) will be awarded a place on the Honor Roll for earning all A’s and B’s. Students with all A’s will be on the High Honor Roll. Students in the Upper School (7th-12th) will be awarded a place on the Honor Roll for earning an excellent grade point average. Students with a GPA of 3.7 or above will be on the Honor Roll, and students with a GPA of 3.9 or above will be on the High Honor Roll. The Honor Roll and High Honor Roll will be announced at the end of each quarter. Boys and girls on the previous quarter’s Honor Roll or High Honor Roll may wear plaid ties to school on Formal Wednesday. End of the Year Awards At the end of each year, we honor the academic and athletic achievements of our students with an all-school awards ceremony. Students who have demonstrated excellence in a particular subject will be recognized with subject awards. Teachers may choose to create separate awards for their own classrooms. Subject Awards At the end of each school year, the teachers will honor the students for their academic excellence with Subject Awards. Kindergarten -3rd Grade Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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One student in each classroom will be presented with an award in the following subjects: Riggs, Art, Music, PE, Literature, History, Mathematics, Science. 4th-6th Grade One student in each classroom will be presented with an award in the following subjects: Art, Music, PE, Grammar, Literature, History, Mathematics, Science. 7th-12th Grade One student in each class will be presented with an award in the following subjects: Art, Music, PE, Literature, History, Mathematics, Science. Spartan Award For showing the grit and determination of the ancient Spartans, the students in K-12th who have perfect attendance records at the end of the school year will be presented with the Spartan Award. Achilles Award For demonstrating extraordinary courage and strength, and for inspiring others with his or her virtue, the student most outstanding in athletic excellence will be presented with the Achilles Award. The Young Achilles Award will be presented to the Grammar School student who best displays these virtues. Homer Award For demonstrating extraordinary musical, artistic, or theatrical skill, and for inspiring others with his or her talent, the student most outstanding in the fine arts will be presented with the Homer Award. The Young Homer Award will be presented to the Grammar School student who best displays these virtues. Aeneas Award For demonstrating an extraordinary character and for aspiring to the excellence of Virgil’s great founder Aeneas, the 7th-12th student most outstanding in moral virtue will be presented with the Aeneas Award. The Young Aeneas Award will be presented to the Grammar School student who best displays these virtues. Odysseus Award For demonstrating an extraordinary mind and character and for aspiring to the excellence of Homer’s Odysseus, the student most outstanding in intellectual virtue will be presented with the Odysseus Award. The Odysseus Award goes to the student who most embodies the school’s motto: “To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.” The Young Odysseus Award will be presented to the Grammar School student who best displays these virtues. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Section 4: Decorum and Discipline A. Decorum Core Virtues Added July 2015

Students at Founders Classical Academy pursue a the moral and intellectual education and are expected to behave in accordance with the following core virtues. Courage Remain steadfast when you are afraid. Practice perseverance when the work is difficult. Moderation Practice patience and self-control. Think before you speak. Keep your temper under control. Justice Follow the rules. Help others, and treat them fairly and with respect. Responsibility Take pride in your work and your duties. Hold yourself accountable even when others do not. Friendship Be kind and generous. Learn how to get along well with others. Prudence Deliberate before you act. Practice good judgment. Wisdom Cultivate a thirst for knowledge about the most important things. Attendance

Updated July 2015 Updated July 2016

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Our mission at Founders is to provide an exceptional classical education and to encourage the virtues of character necessary for human flourishing. This requires a commitment, over the course of many years, to a specific course of study. A chief element of that commitment is regular and punctual attendance. School starts promptly at 8:00am for all students. It is critical to student safety that we know where all students are on school days. Parents must notify the front office every day a child is to be away from school. To notify the front office, email or send a Jupiter message to your student’s teachers and the Attendance Clerk at [email protected]. In the message, please include your child’s name and the reason for his or her absence. Parents must make us aware of the child’s absence before 8:00 am. If a parent fails to notify the office of a student’s absence, the absence will be coded as unexcused. For more information about attendance, please consult the RES Parent/Student Handbook. The 90% Rule Students must attend 90% of a class in order to receive credit for that class. This threshold includes both excused and unexcused absences. If a student is not physically present in class, regardless of the reason, the student’s total attendance percentage is reduced. Students who do not attend 90% of a class are in danger of failing the class because of absences and will be referred to an attendance committee. Unexcused Absences An unexcused absence is any absence not excused by law or listed in the RES Parent/Student Handbook. Unexcused absences require that all work assigned during the absence is due immediately upon return and subject to a reduction in grade according to the late work policy. If a parent fails to notify the office of a student’s absence before the absence occurs, the absence will be deemed unexcused. Excused Absences Teachers will allow students to make up work for excused absences according to the policy below, under “Make Up Work.” Absences will be excused for religious Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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observances, court appearances, illness, family emergencies, and other reasons required by law. If a student is absent for 3 or more consecutive days due to illness a doctor’s note must be delivered to the front office or submitted by email to the Attendance Clerk. For more information please consult the RES Parent/Student Handbook. Make-up Work Missed work due to an excused absence must be completed within the same number of school days as the absence. For example, if a student is absent from school for 3 days because of the flu, that student will have 3 school days to complete the work he missed while sick. An absence on the date of a major assignment, such as a test or major paper, will not extend the deadline of that assignment. The student must complete the assignment the day of his or her return. Truancy A student who is absent from school without permission will be considered truant and is subject to disciplinary action. Specifically, Texas state law holds that “if the student is absent from school on 10 or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year or on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period, the student’s parent and the student are subject to prosecution” (Sec. 25.095 of the Texas Education Code). Tardies

Updated July 2017

Tardiness not only delays one’s own learning but interferes with the learning of one’s classmates. In order to excuse a late arrival, parents must come to the front office and explain the emergency that caused the delay. Unexcused tardies include, but are not limited to: car trouble (without documentation), oversleeping, and personal business. In 6th grade and up, for every 5th tardy per class, a student will receive a poor behavior slip. Detentions of increasing length may be assigned as poor behavior slips for tardiness are issued, and students may face further disciplinary Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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consequences if tardiness becomes habitual. Tardies may be converted to unexcused absences, affecting the student’s attendance record. For more information about tardies, please consult the RES Parent/Student Handbook. Early Departures Updated July 2017

Any time a student must be picked up early, parents should notify the student’s teachers and the Attendance Clerk ([email protected]). Early departure notifications are accepted until 2:30pm. After 2:30pm, parents must call the front office to arrange an early pick up. During school hours, all students must be signed out at the Building 3 office. If a student who drives to school must depart early, the parent must call the office and send written permission to the Attendance Clerk for the student to leave. Early departures are reserved for emergencies, illness, and official appointments. Students must check out and check in at the front office whenever their departure or arrival occurs during school hours, even during passing periods, lunch, recess, and PE. Doctors’ Appointments Updated February 2015

So that a student does not miss out on valuable class time, we encourage families to schedule doctor’s appointments after school. Students who must miss class for a doctor’s appointment are responsible for making up any work they missed promptly. Doctor’s notes should be dropped off at the front desk or emailed to the Attendance Clerk. Transportation Changes Updated July 2017

If a student is to be picked up or transported by someone other than a parent or approved contact, written permission must be given in advance. The student will not be allowed to leave until we receive written permission from the parent. Please email the student’s teachers and the Attendance Clerk at least one day Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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before the pick up. This includes carpools to and from field trips, games, academic competitions, and other events. Please note that by law drivers under the age of 18 may only transport one person under the age of 21 other than siblings. College Visit Absence Requests High school students who meet the following criteria will be allowed to have two excused days of absence for a college visit during their junior year and two excused days of absence for a college visit during their senior year: 1. The student must have passed the required parts of the TAKS/EOC tests for the previous year. 2. The student must be on track to graduate on time. 3. The student must be classified as a junior or senior based upon credits earned. 4. The student must be passing all coursework. 5. The student must meet the 90% attendance rule. 6. The student cannot have any disciplinary issues. Students must submit a “College Visit Absence Request Form” to the Attendance Office at least two days prior to the day requested for a college visit and official documentation must be turned into the office in building 3 within one week of the visit.

School Uniform

Updated February 2015

In our appearance we show our opinions about ourselves, show respect for what we are doing, and respect those with whom we spend our time. We dress up when we take something or someone seriously, and through our appearance we communicate that respect. Clothes can distract and prevent others from devoting their energy and attention to their schoolwork. Our goal is to minimize such distractions and to foster a healthy respect for school, for teachers, for fellow students, and for ourselves. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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All students are required to be in their proper uniform whenever they are on campus before, during, and after the normal school day. If students are not in their proper uniform, they will not be allowed to attend class until the problem is fixed. We will have extra uniforms in the main office for students to borrow for the day. A student who is repeatedly out of uniform will be disciplined. Please visit our website for a detailed list of the uniform items required in each grade. Shirts should be tucked in at all times, and students should strive for a neat and respectable appearance. Students should not wear overly tight clothing, cargo shorts, cargo pants, and overly skinny or baggy pants. Girls’ skirts should be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee, and shorts should be no shorter than 3 inches above the knee. No undergarments should be visible. Formal Wednesday Updated July 2017

Every Wednesday students, staff, and faculty will dress up in an effort to achieve excellence as a school, beginning with excellence in personal appearance. Formal Wednesday will be observed by the whole school at once. On Formal Wednesday girls will wear Founders Classical Academy plaid. Girls in Grades K- 3 will wear jumpers, and girls in Grades 4 and up will wear skirts. Boys will wear khaki or navy blue pants, or shorts if it is hot. Beginning in 4th grade boys will be required to wear navy blue ties. Boys and girls in 4th-12th grade who were on the honor roll for the previous quarter are invited to wear plaid ties in Founders Classical Academy plaid. Students are welcome to wear their Formal Wednesday uniforms throughout the week if they so choose. PE Clothing

Updated July 2016 Updated July 2017

Students in grades 6 and up will be required to bring a gym uniform for PE class. Shorts should be of modest length. All athletic clothing should be in a solid color. Shorts should be navy blue or black and may bear up to three small white stripes. Athletic pants should be loose fitting. T-shirts should be navy blue, black, white, gray, or red. No athletic clothing should bear pictures or words, except for small brand logos.

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PE clothes will be kept in the student’s locker in Building 3 during the school day. All clothing is to be removed from the locker rooms in Building 1 immediately after PE class. PE shoes should be court or cross training shoes in solid white, gray, navy blue, or black, or a combination thereof. Shoes with brightly colored soles, stripes, or other colorful markings are not allowed. (White Adidas stripes and Nike swooshes are acceptable.) Running shoes that meet the above requirements may be worn but are prone to causing ankle turns in the team sport segments. Socks and shoelaces should be solid white, gray, or black. Students may wear Founders Classical Academy spirit wear during PE if they choose. These items will be available for purchase from the Archers Council. House Colors Added July 2015

The regular dress code must be observed during school hours, which means that students may not wear hats, scarves, socks, bandannas, t-shirts, etc. in their house colors to school. A house may earn the privilege of wearing house colors to school on select days, but the regular dress code must be observed unless that privilege has been earned. Socks and Tights Socks may be high or low socks, and they should be a solid color—either black, white, navy blue, or red. If girls would like to wear solid-colored tights, they should be black, navy, white, or red. Outerwear Updated July 2015

During school hours, students must wear solid navy blue jackets, cardigans, and sweatshirts that button or zip down the front. No pullover sweaters or sweatshirts. During winter weather, students may wear solid colored coats and jackets that are free of messages, large logos, or images while they are outside. These must be removed when the student comes inside. Students may not wear denim jackets, leather jackets, trench coats, or dusters. Students may not wear jackets, sweaters, and coats that are knee or ankle length.

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Shoes Updated July 2015 Updated July 2016

Students must wear closed-toed, closed-heeled tennis or dress shoes in white, gray, black, navy blue, or brown. Shoes with white soles or white markings are allowed, but students should not wear shoes with brightly colored soles, stripes, or other colorful markings. Shoelaces should be white, gray, black, brown, or navy blue. Dress shoes should be brown or black. Students may not wear boots, high-heeled shoes, Crocs, sandals, flip-flops, moccasins, or slippers. In 6th grade and up, PE shoes should be court or cross training shoes in solid white, gray, navy, or black, or a combination thereof. Shoes with brightly colored soles, stripes, or other colorful markings are not allowed. (White Adidas stripes and Nike swooshes are acceptable.) Running shoes that meet the above requirements may be worn but are prone to causing ankle turns in the team sport segments. Socks and shoelaces should be solid white, gray, or black. Backpacks, Lunchboxes, Water Bottles, and Bags Students are welcome to bring any backpack, lunchbox, or bag they like. Please ensure that all backpacks, lunchboxes, and bags are free of patches and vulgar or distracting messages. We encourage students to bring water bottles, including insulated water bottles, to school so that they can stay hydrated and cool during recess and while outside. Students may not bring anything other than water in their water bottles, including juice, soda, or milk. Personal Appearance Updated July 2016

Students should observe all personal grooming guidelines while on campus and while representing or supporting Founders Classical Academy. This includes before and after school, during afternoon practices, and at school sporting events, including off-campus games and meets. Hair should be clean and well groomed. Unnatural hair coloring or streaking are not permitted. Words, symbols, and designs shaved into hair, including facial hair, are not allowed. Students Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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should not wear dreadlocks, and girls should not wear hairstyles where the scalp is shaved. Boys’ hair should not touch the collar of the shirt when the boy is standing, and sideburns should be neatly trimmed and extend no longer than the bottom of the earlobe. Boys must be cleanshaven. Boys are not to wear hair bands or put their hair into a bun or ponytail. Jewelry Tongue rings and other visible body piercings, including nose and eyebrow rings, are not allowed. No gauges may be worn in pierced ears, and students may not wear grills on teeth. Girls may wear earrings that are simple studs or hanging earrings, provided that they hang no lower than 1⁄4 inch below the earlobe. Girls may wear no more than two earrings per ear. Makeup Girls in Grades 6 and up may wear makeup that is natural in appearance and not distracting. Visible body tattoos and body art are not allowed. Hair Accessories Girls who wear hair bands, hair bows, or other accessories should choose items that are in the school colors--red, white, and navy blue--or Founders Classical Academy plaid. General Decorum Students are expected to be polite and attentive at all times. Any other behavior is disruptive and will be cause for disciplinary action. Classroom Teachers have the authority to set specific classroom rules and procedures within the parameters of the RES and FCA handbooks. Students should listen when others are talking and not interrupt, speak courteously and respectfully, follow directions, keep one’s body and objects to oneself, and not disturb others. Campus

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Behavioral expectations apply whenever the student is on our campus, including before school, during recess, and after school. The campus includes all school property and extends 300 feet beyond the property line. Beyond that line, students may be disciplined if their behavior causes or may reasonably be believed to cause a substantive disruption to campus activities. In the hallways, students are expected to walk quietly. During lunchtime students are expected to act calmly and quietly while they enjoy their meals and relax. All students are responsible for cleaning up after themselves. Academic Honesty Updated July 2015

A classical education emphasizes both academics and character. Students are expected to work hard and to take pride in their work. This means all of the work they turn in must be their own. Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated by any teacher in any subject, and instances of academic dishonesty will be punished with an automatic Pink Slip. Plagiarism consists in appropriating another’s work without recognizing that the work is not one’s own. If a student has questions as to what constitutes plagiarism in a given instance, he or she should discuss the issue with his or her teacher before the assignment is due. B. Discipline What distinguishes discipline in a classical school is its direct relation to the school’s mission and its comprehensive scope. The goal of discipline is to help students form good habits, which means it is not merely or only a tool for disruptive students, but a central element of all learning.   Discipline is woven through the entirety of the classical education model. From the organization of desks in the classroom and the teacher’s central place, to our character-based approach to physical education and our study of Latin, the elements of discipline extend to every activity. Discipline helps students to think more clearly and to act virtuously.   The primary focus of discipline in all of its manifestations is to habituate students to the proper relationship between reason and desire. This means that instead of being in the service of desire, seeking out the means to fulfill our longings, reason ought to direct us to the proper desires—the best and most fulfilling activities. In our view, this means that discipline’s highest aim is to habituate students to a life of learning, one that can be shared with friends and loved ones. It is a life anyone can lead in tandem with the responsibilities of a career, a family, and a community, and is therefore open to anyone who can put in the effort and who has, over the Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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course of his or her childhood, been encouraged and habituated to that kind of mind-opening and heart-enlarging activity. Our disciplinary goals at Founders are 1) to provide a secure and calm learning environment in which all students can focus on their work with as little distraction as possible, 2) to treat all students equitably, fairly, and with respect, and 3) to teach students the importance of their own character, as the most valuable of their possessions. Any departure from proper decorum is liable to disciplinary action. For a detailed list of those actions that will receive disciplinary action, please consult the RES parent/student handbook. Disciplinary Action Updated July 2015

Poor Behavior Slips Students will be verbally corrected for poor behavior. If the behavior is repetitive or serious, they will receive Poor Behavior Slips describing the infraction. Students will bring these home to be signed by parents and returned to the front office on the next school day. A message will also be sent to parents via Jupiter. Students may receive detention in conjunction with the Poor Behavior Slip. Detention will occur in the afternoons and will not be used for study time. After the third poor behavior slip is received, the Assistant Headmaster will meet with parents to discuss the student’s behavior. For habitual or more serious offenses the student will be sent to the Office and will receive a Pink Slip. A student who has received five Poor Behavior Slips will be given a Pink Slip. Pink Slips Pink Slips are reserved for serious disciplinary infractions where the school administration should be involved. They may be handed out by teachers and administrators and they will accumulate over the course of the year. A student’s total will not reset at the semester. Receiving a Pink Slip indicates that a student’s behavior is a serious problem, and earning repeated Pink Slips will result in more serious consequences each time. It is our hope that the consequences for receiving a Pink Slip will encourage students to display good character and act in Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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accordance to the school mission. A student may be suspended or expelled immediately for especially serious offenses. Please consult the RES Parent/Student Handbook for more information. 1st Pink Slip: Student is sent to the office and parents are notified. Student may receive detention(s). 2nd Pink Slip: Student is sent to the office and parents are notified. Student may receive detention(s). 3rd Pink Slip: Student is sent to the Office, receives detention(s), and parents are notified. The student’s parent(s) will meet with the Assistant Headmaster to discuss the student’s behavior. The purposes of this meeting are to exchange accurate information about the student and to determine how the school-parent partnership can best work together to reform the student’s behavior. 4th Pink Slip: Student is sent to the Office, receives detention(s), calls home, and goes home. The student may not return to school until a parent accompanies the student to class for one full day to observe the school day. 5th Pink Slip: Student is sent to the Office, receives detention, calls home, and goes home. The administration will consider expulsion as fitting consequences. Bullying Bullying is prohibited against any student or any teacher for any reason. Bullying includes any written or verbal expression, physical or electronic act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that coerces, intimidates, or causes any physical, mental, or emotional harm. Bullying is prohibited on school property, at school-sanctioned events, when students are being transported to or from school or a school-sanctioned event, and off-campus when it is reasonably foreseeable that the bullying conduct may cause a substantial disruption in the educational mission of the school or interfere with the ability of other school students to learn or be secure.

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Section 5: School Activities A. Upper School House System Added July 2015

To involve the entire upper school in the difficult task of self-government, to develop the habits of organization and execution, and to encourage our students to strive in all they do, Founders Classical Academy instituted a house system in the spring of 2015. All upper school students (7th-12th grade) were sorted into one of six different houses, led by one Mentor Teacher. Each house took its name from a famous figure from our liberal arts curriculum. These thinkers were chosen from among the best to represent greatness in their field and in the liberal arts, and to display the energy of thought and curiosity that we wish to see in our own best students. The Six Houses of Founders Classical Academy Herodotus (color: burgundy) William Shakespeare (color: purple) Sir Isaac Newton (color: golden yellow) Euclid (color: emerald green) Leonardo Da Vinci (color: cerulean blue) Ludwig van Beethoven (color: fuschia) A student’s house assignment is permanent, and he or she shares it with siblings. At the end of the 6th grade year, the rising upper school students will be given their house assignments in a special ceremony.

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Each semester, the six houses will compete against each other in a series of academic and athletic competitions called the Archer Games. Students will earn points for their house when they succeed in the classroom or on the athletic field, and they will lose points for their house when they are absent from school, when they earn Poor Behavior Slips and Pink Slips. Victory in the Archer Games earns the house the Archer Award, an oak trophy bearing the names of the houses who have earned this honor in the past. The Archer Award is to be displayed in the classroom of the house’s mentor teacher for the entirety of the following school year. Each house is responsible for planning a school dance or event and undertaking a community service project each year. The victorious house will have the first choice of event, and the other houses will choose their event in order of their standings in the previous year’s Archer Games. Each house is governed by a house mentor teacher, a head boy and a head girl chosen by the house mentor, and student representatives for each grade, 7th to 12th, chosen by the students in that grade. Grammar School students are encouraged to attend all house competitions and events and cheer on the students from their favorite house. B. Extracurricular Activities Updated July 2016 Updated July 2017

A classical education seeks to cultivate the whole person—body, mind, and soul. The soul cannot thrive unless the body is in good condition, and a well-conditioned body cannot be courageous, moderate, or just without a well-formed soul. Socrates, the exemplar of intellectual virtue, was also a brave soldier. Many of his best students were themselves athletes or soldiers. We encourage students to participate in a range of activities that contribute to, deepen, or otherwise extend the learning that occurs in the classroom and at home. We encourage students to participate in as many activities as they can reasonably manage. Every member of a club or team has a responsibility to his or her teammates to show up on time ready to participate, and to remain in good academic standing. These activities are a privilege that is contingent on academic performance. Students who receive less than 70% in any one class cannot participate in school clubs or play in athletic games until the beginning of the next

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quarter, except with the approval of the Headmaster. Student-athletes with grades of C or below are encouraged to attend fewer practices until their grades are up. Additional requirements for eligibility in extracurricular activities are as follows: (1) Students must meet the requirements of the 90% Rule, as explained in the attendance section of the handbook. (2) Students must have been present in class the day of a particular athletic competition. (3) Students must also be current in regard to bill payments of accounts such as lunch bills, late pick-up bills, and textbook replacement fees. The Headmaster may also determine that students are ineligible as a disciplinary consequence for poor behavior. The school is not able to provide transportation to school athletic events and we will rely on the assistance of parents. If a student is to be transported by someone other than a parent, written permission must be given in advance. The student will not be allowed to leave until we receive written permission from the parent. Please email the student’s teacher/coach/club leader and the Attendance Clerk at least one day before the pick up. This includes carpools to and from field trips, games, academic competitions, and other events. Please note that by law drivers under the age of 18 may only transport one person under the age of 21 other than siblings. School Clubs Added July 2015 Updated July 2016

The school will sponsor a number of student clubs. These clubs may be available to students in select grades and will meet before or after school. Students are eligible to join these clubs only if they have a grade of 70% or higher in each class. Students may join no more than two clubs that meet during study hall. In order to participate in any club students must meet the three additional requirements given above for eligibility in athletic competitions. TCSAAL and TAIAO Updated July 2017

For most sports, we participate in TCSAAL and TAIAO, a state-wide academic and athletic league for charter schools. Information regarding their programs may be found online. Athletics Policies Updated February 2015

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All student-athletes will need to complete a physical and sign a release form before they will be allowed to participate in any school-sanctioned sport activity, including practice. These forms are available in the front office and on the school website. Extracurricular activities will charge a participation fee and athletic events may charge a gate fee for matches. These funds will be used to pay for uniforms, equipment, instruments, fees for invitationals, and other miscellaneous items. In order to encourage school spirit and keep students focused on the mission and philosophy of Founders, we discourage students from competing for other schools. Students wishing to do so will not be excused from class for practice or competitions. Please see Appendix D for further explanation of the policies for after school athletics. External PE Credit Updated July 2017

High School students who participate in the same supervised athletic activity for 37.5 hours every 9 weeks for two athletic seasons - Fall/Winter, or Winter/Spring s may qualify for external PE credit. A student must apply for external PE credit before the activity begins, by bringing to the Headmaster’s office a signed letter from the supervising coach or leader outlining the nature of the activity and the schedule the student will follow. After a student is approved to seek external PE credit, he or she must complete an External PE Log, available in the front office, and return it to the office prior to the end of the semester. They will be able to use the time normally set aside for PE as a study hall. Students may receive .5 credit for high school PE if they compete in athletics for a private or competitive team for at least one full semester, or two 9-week periods. For those students participating in school sports this means .5 PE credit equals 2 sports, either fall/winter or winter/spring.

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C. Field Trips We will participate in field trips that actively and essentially contribute to coursework. The Headmaster will review all field trip proposals from teachers at least 2 weeks prior to their proposed date. A permission slip must be signed and returned to the teacher by the parent/guardian of each student prior to the field trip. Students may be required to pay a fee to attend field trips. School uniforms are required on all field trips unless specifically noted otherwise and approved by the Headmaster. Students who have received 4 or more Pink Slips may not attend field trips without a parent accompanying them. Chaperones Teachers will need the help of chaperones in order to secure the safety and to encourage proper decorum during field trips. All parents who would like to volunteer as chaperones must first pass a background check. Parents who chaperone must make arrangements for their other children, as they may not be brought on the field trip. Please consult our policy on volunteering below for more details. Parents are responsible for maintaining the high standards of character and decorum that we ask of our students and teachers. In every case, the teacher conducting the field trip will be in charge. D. School Dances School dances are a good way for students to develop friendships and enjoy themselves in a safe environment. Students in the six houses organize several dances over the course of the year, the goal of which is to provide a memorable and enjoyable time for our students. We realize that some Founders students will wish to invite guests who attend other schools. Founders students are welcome to bring outside guests under certain circumstances. The following rules regarding non-Founders guests are in place: 1. All non-Founders guests must be attending middle school or high school. No guests over the age of 18 may attend school dances. 2. If a Founders student would like to bring a non-Founders student to school, both students must obtain written consent from each set of parents. 3. No guest may attend who is under suspension, whether a Founders or a non-Founders student. 4. All students and guests must conform to the decorum of Founders Classical Academy. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Adult chaperones are required to arrive early, behave responsibly and with decorum, and dress appropriately. Chaperones may not drink any alcoholic beverage during the designated hours of the event. Dress Code for Dances Added July 2017

The students in the House organizing the dance may decide on the dance dress code from one of the options below. Under the guidance of their house mentor, students may also choose a theme to go along with the dress code (for example, 50s, Hollywood, etc.) If a particular item of clothing is not mentioned in the guidelines below, students should assume that it is not allowed. Formal Attire Ladies wear floor- or knee-length dresses or skirts. Skirts and dresses should be no shorter than two inches above the top of the knee. Plunging necklines, visible cleavage, bare midriffs, see-through fabric, and side-, front-, or back cut-outs are not permitted. Straps on dresses must be at least two inches wide. If strapless or spaghetti strap dresses are worn, ladies must wear a jacket, sweater, or bolero as well. Ladies are encouraged to wear shoes in which they can dance comfortably. However, no tennis shoes or sneakers should be worn. Gentlemen wear a collared shirt and dress pants with a jacket and tie, and a belt or suspenders. Alternatively, gentlemen may wear a tuxedo. Pants should reach to the shoe but not drag on the ground. Skinny pants and sagging pants which expose undergarments are not permitted. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear shoes in which they can dance comfortably. However, tennis shoes or sneakers should not be worn. Semi Formal Attire Ladies wear floor- or knee-length dresses or skirts. Skirts and dresses should be no shorter than two inches above the top of the knee. Plunging necklines, visible cleavage, bare midriffs, see-through fabric, and side-, front-, or back cut-outs are not permitted. Straps on dresses must be at least two inches wide. If strapless or spaghetti strap dresses are worn, ladies must wear a jacket, sweater, or bolero as well. Ladies are encouraged to wear shoes in which they can dance comfortably. However, no tennis shoes or sneakers should be worn. Gentlemen wear a collared shirt and dress pants, with a belt or suspenders. Gentlemen may also wear a jacket and/or a tie. Pants should reach to the shoe but Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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not drag on the ground. Skinny pants and sagging pants which expose undergarments are not permitted. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear shoes in which they can dance comfortably. However, tennis shoes or sneakers should not be worn. Casual Attire Ladies may wear pants, skirts, or dresses, but may not wear jeans. Skirts and dresses should be no shorter than two inches above the top of the knee. Pants should not be skin tight. Plunging necklines, visible cleavage, bare midriffs, see-through fabric, and side-, front-, or back cut-outs are not permitted. Straps on dresses and tops must be at least two inches wide. If strapless or spaghetti strap dresses or shirts are worn, ladies must wear a jacket, sweater, or bolero as well. Ladies are encouraged to wear shoes in which they can dance comfortably, including tennis shoes or sneakers. Gentlemen wear a collared or polo shirt and pants, with a belt or suspenders. Jeans are not allowed. Pants should reach to the shoe but not drag on the ground. Skinny pants and sagging pants which expose undergarments are not permitted. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear shoes in which they can dance comfortably, including tennis shoes or sneakers.

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Section 6: Procedures and Policies A. Daily Procedures School Day

Updated July 2016

School starts promptly at 8:00am for all students. Students are welcome on campus any time after 7:30am but are encouraged to arrive between 7:50am and 8:00am. Students in K-5 who arrive before 7:50am will go directly to the Building 1 gym. Students in 6th11th who arrive before 7:50 will go to the Building 3 cafeteria. Students who eat breakfast in the mornings will go to the Building 3 cafeteria. Students may not be in the hallways, or visit their classrooms or lockers, before 7:50 am. School ends at 3:30 pm for all students. Drop-off and Pick-up Updated July 2015 Updated July 2016

Students should begin arriving no earlier than 7:30am. Faculty, staff, and volunteers will be at the front of the campus in the morning to escort our younger students from their vehicles to the building. Other staff will be inside to supervise students on their way to class. At 8:00am our doors will be locked to ensure the security of students and staff. With the completion of Building 3 comes a longer driveway and an improved system for morning drop off and afternoon pick up. When you arrive in the mornings and afternoons, please enter campus using the north driveway and follow the path marked with red arrows on the diagram below. Students in K-5th will be dropped off and picked up outside Buildings 1 and 2, and students in 6th-12th will be dropped off and picked up outside Building 3. (If you have students in Upper School and Grammar School, you will drop off and pick up all of your children outside Buildings 1 and 2, and the Upper School students will walk to and from Building 3.) You may download a diagram of the carline here: Carline Procedures 2016-2017 or on the school website. 1. To help keep traffic on Leander Drive moving, please approach campus from the north. 2. Please pull to the front of the line. There should be no gaps in the car line.

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3. Please drive slowly, especially along the new driveway. There will be many young students around and it is important for drivers to be watchful. 4. Do not use your cell phone while in the car line. Students who use their cell phones while driving on campus may lose their driving privileges. 5. K-5th parents, please arrive for afternoon pick up beginning at 3:15. K-5th students will be dismissed at 3:30. 6. 6th-12th parents, please do not arrive before 3:30. If you do, you will block K-5th families from picking up their children. Students will be dismissed from Building 3 at 3:30. 7. If you have students in K-5th and 6th-12th, please drop all of your children off outside Buildings 1 and 2. Please pick up all of your children outside Buildings 1 and 2. (The older students will walk over using the crosswalk.) 8. K-5th parents, if you would like to park and pick up your child in person, please enter using the center driveway and use the crosswalk in front of Building 2. Please do not spend longer than 10 minutes in the K-5th lot. If you plan to spend more than 10 minutes on campus, please park next to the playground behind Building 2. Instructions for Hang Tags Updated July 2017

Each family has been provided 4 copies of a blue and white plastic hang tag with a three digit number. You were also given several smaller backpack tags with the same number, and several small tags that say “Walk/Bike” on them. The three digit number is the same for your whole family, so you will need to display only one tag for all of your children. Please write your childrens’ names on the tags when you receive them. If you carpool, please give the extra hang tags to the other families who you authorize to pick up your children. There will be a $5 replacement fee for lost hang tags. K-5th students will be dismissed from their classrooms by walkie talkie. 6th-12th students will stand on the sidewalk outside Building 3 and enter cars on their own. School staff will be present to open car doors and supervise the process. K-5th parents, if you would like to pick up your child from the car line: ● Please display your family’s hang tag on the rear view mirror of your car when you arrive in the afternoons. ● Please send your child to school with the smaller tag containing your family number on his or her backpack. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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● When you arrive in the afternoons, school staff will call out the family numbers on walkie talkies and students will be dismissed from their classrooms. ● This is an excellent time for school staff to learn the names of our families, and we would love it if you would display your last name and the name of your children in your car window as well! K-5th parents, if you would like to park and pick up your child in person: ● Please send your child to school with the “Walk/Bike” tag attached to his or her backpack. This will be a sign to the teacher that your child should be dismissed from class right at 3:30. ● Please use the center driveway to park in the lot marked “Walk-In Parking” on the diagram above. ● Please bring your hang tag, and walk across the Building 2 crosswalk to meet your child at 3:30. He or she will be waiting there for you! If you carpool, please provide the extra copies of your family’s hang tag to the others who you authorize to pick up your child from school. Please make sure that these individuals are on your emergency contact/carpool form in the main office. If you arrive to campus without a hang tag in the afternoon, please park and check in at the Building 3 reception desk. School staff will arrange for your child to meet you once we have confirmed that you are authorized to pick the student up. Late Pick Up All students must be picked up by 4:00 p.m. Students who are not picked up by this time will wait in the building 3 library and parents will be assessed a fee at the rate of $1.00/minute. This late fee is payable to the front office on the next school day. If a parent does not pay this fee on time, the student may be barred from participating in extracurricular activities.

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Grammar School Assembly Pledges and Morning Assemblies Updated July 2015

Every morning, except for Wednesdays, all students will recite the pledges of allegiance and hold a moment of silence in their classrooms. Once a week, on Wednesdays from 8:00-8:15am, students in K-5 will gather in the Building 1 Gym to recite the pledges and conduct the moment of silence together. These morning assemblies will often feature a performance from students or faculty members. Parents are welcome to attend. All School Assembly Once a month, students in K-11 will gather in the Building 1 Gym for an all-school assembly from 8:00-8:15am. The assembly will often feature a performance from students or faculty members, special announcements, and small awards ceremonies. For the dates of these all school assemblies, please consult the calendar on our school website. Pledges of Allegiance Students will recite both the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag every day, in order of their importance. The Pledge to the United States flag will precede the Pledge to the Texas flag. Parents may submit a written request to the Headmaster at the school office to excuse their student from reciting a pledge. The American Pledge of Allegiance

“I pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.” The Texas Pledge of Allegiance

“Honor the Texas flag; I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible.”

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One minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. During that time students may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity that is not likely to interfere with or distract others. State law does not allow students to be excused from participation in the required minute of silence. School Meals & Lunchtime Updated July 2016

Applications for free or reduced meals are available in the front office. Lunchtime provides an opportunity to relax, play, and restore the body and mind. Students must talk quietly and behave calmly during lunch. Snacks

Updated July 2015

We understand that young students require snacks to keep them going during the day, and teachers in Grades K-2 will set aside a time in the morning during which students can enjoy a quick bite to eat. Parents are responsible for sending students to school with a small, healthy snack that can be eaten in a couple of minutes. We ask that students bring things that can be eaten without utensils and without creating a mess. With the exception of Grammar School snacks and water bottles filled with water, food and drink are not permitted in the classrooms or libraries. Upper School students may eat a quick snack between classes in the hallways as long as they bring food that can be eaten without utensils and without creating a mess. Students may not chew gum. Medication Please review the RES Parent/Student Handbook (page 22) for the district’s medication policy.

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B. General Campus Policies Inclement Weather When the weather turns cold, and snow and ice threaten a school closing, you may tune into one of the local news stations to find out if Founders Classical Academy will be closing. We will follow the Leander School District when making our decision. If you see that LISD is closed, then so are we. If LISD has a delayed opening then so do we. Please stay informed of the weather conditions and do not bring your child to school unnecessarily. If the school is closed there will not be a school employee on campus. Illness We respectfully ask parents not to bring their children to school if they are or are suspected to be sick. Students who are running a fever will be sent home and asked to remain home until 24 hours after the fever has passed. Network & Internet Access We recognize the benefits of the internet in the education of today’s youth. We also recognize the dangers associated with unrestricted access and undisciplined users. Our goal is to use the internet as a tool that supplements classroom learning in a manner that protects students and upholds standards of decency. All students, faculty, and staff are expected to use the internet for educational purposes only, to use it ethically and appropriately, and to maintain their own and others’ privacy. If it is determined that students, faculty, or staff are not following these standards, we will revoke the privilege of using the internet on campus. All internet use is subject to administrative review at any time. Videos Videos and other media may be used in the classroom to support a lesson. Students will not be shown a full movie in class without prior parent permission.

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Electronic Devices Updated July 2015 Updated July 2016 Updated July 2017

Electronic devices must not be used during the school day or immediately before and after school. This includes but is not limited to laptops, portable audio devices, head/earphones, hand-held video games, smart watches, and cell phones. Exceptions will be made for necessary medical devices and at the Headmaster’s discretion. Students may not use cell phones on campus between 7:00am and 3:30pm. After 3:30 students may only use cell phones outside the building. If a student must bring a cell phone to school, he or she must keep it in a locker for the entire day including during recess, lunch, passing periods, and study halls. Students may not carry cell phones in their pockets or backpacks. Students may not use cell phones inside during drop off or dismissal time. Students may not contact their parents via text message during the school day. The front office in Building 3 and the enrollment office in Building 1 always have phones available for students who need to call home. Any student who is using a phone or other electronic device during the day will have that device confiscated. If there is reason to believe that the device has been used in the transmission or reception of communications prohibited by law, policy, or regulation, the device may be powered on and searched. Students who repeatedly break this rule will be subject to fines and other disciplinary action. Once a device has been taken up, the following procedure will be used to return the device: 1st Confiscation: The device will be held until the end of the school day and can be picked up by the student or parent when school is dismissed. An administrative fee of $10 must be paid before the device is returned. 2nd Confiscation: The device will be held until the end of the school day and can be picked up by the student or parent when school is dismissed. An administrative fee of $20 must be paid before the device can be returned.

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3rd Confiscation: The device can be picked up by the student or parent no earlier than the following Monday. An administrative fee of $30 must be paid before the device can be returned. 4th Confiscation: The device can be picked up by the student or parent no earlier than the following Monday. An administrative fee of $30 must be paid before the device can be returned. Confiscations beyond three may result in additional disciplinary action and, if necessary, suspension from school. Founders Classical Academy is not responsible for the damage, loss, or theft of electronic devices left on campus. Visitors on Campus Updated February 2015 Updated July 2015

Founders Classical Academy has a mandatory sign-in procedure for all visitors on campus, including parents. Any visitor to campus between the hours of 7:30am and 4:00pm must first report to the school office, and will be required to furnish a U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID. The visitor’s information will be stored in an electronic database to document visitors to the school. Information stored in the electronic database may be used only for the purpose of school security, and may not be sold or otherwise disseminated to a third party for any purpose. Visitors must check in with the front office and provide identification each time they visit the school, not just the first. A visitor badge will be issued to the visitor and displayed conspicuously during the visit. Sex Offenders In the unlikely event that a registered sex offender attempts to gain access to the school, the authorities will be notified immediately. The school will verify whether the visitor is a sex offender registered with the computerized central database maintained by the Department of Public Safety or any other database accessible by the school. If a person who is a registered sex offender is visiting the school because he or she has a child enrolled at Founders, that person will be supervised by school staff at all times during a school visit and will not have access to children without direct supervision. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Parent Visits Updated February 2015

Beginning at 8:00am, the campus will be closed. All visitors to the campus must stop by the front office to check in and obtain a visitor’s badge. Classrooms, the lunchroom, and the recess areas are closed to parents during the school day except school volunteers and parents who have scheduled a formal observation. During the school day, it may be necessary for a parent to drop off lunch or a forgotten item. Parents making deliveries should stop by the front office. One of the office staff members will be happy to deliver the item. When teachers arrive in the morning they have certain preparations that must be completed before receiving students. After school, teachers have lesson plans to wrap up, tutoring to provide, papers to grade, calls to return, and other business to conduct. All of our teachers welcome parent/teacher conferences as long as they are scheduled in advance and on their calendar. To schedule a meeting with a teacher, please contact him or her via email. Classroom Observations

We encourage parents to visit our classrooms to learn more about classical education and discover ways to contribute to their children’s education at home. Beginning October 1, classroom visits are available to parents by appointment. Parents may schedule a formal observation of a student’s class with the front office. A parent observation will last for one period, or, in the Grammar School, one subject at a time. This is an opportunity to see classical education at work and to provide the teachers and administrators with constructive comments. Volunteering Updated July 2015

As a charter school, Founders seeks an ongoing and friendly partnership with students, their families, and the community. We heartily welcome community members and the relatives of students to volunteer, and we appreciate all of the help they provide in making this school a success. In order to be considered as a volunteer, those interested must first apply Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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through Responsive Education Solutions at the following web address: http://foundersleander.com/employment/volunteer/ Parent volunteers must read and agree to the school’s guidelines for volunteering, included in the Appendices to this handbook. The school’s front office will serve as a liaison between school staff, parents who wish to volunteer, and the Archers Council. Archers Council

The Archers Council exists to support the education of children at Founders Classical Academy. It fosters positive relationships among school administrators, parents, faculty, and staff. Any parent or legal guardian for a student at the school, and any administrator or teacher, may become a volunteer member. The Archers Council is organized exclusively for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes under Section 501c3 of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code. The mission of the Organization is to serve and support Founders Classical Academy of Leander (“FCA”) through active committees. The Organization and its committees have no influence, relationship, or authority over the operations, administration, curriculum or academic functions of FCA. Watch D.O.G.S.

Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) is a volunteer organization with the purpose of engaging men, inspiring children, reducing bullying and enhancing the educational environment at school. Fathers, grandfathers, and uncles can volunteer to serve in a variety of school activities as assigned by the Headmaster or another administrator. To learn more information about Watch D.O.G.S. stop by the school office or contact the Archers Council.

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Lost and Found Updated July 2016

Lost clothing, notebooks, lunch boxes, and other items will be placed in the lost-andfound box located in Building 3 and kept for two weeks. Unclaimed lost-and-found items will be given to the school uniform closet, a local charity, or discarded. Books will be returned to the office or the library. Valuable items will be kept in the front office for safekeeping. Operation of Motor Vehicles on Campus Any law or ordinance regulating traffic on a public highway or street also applies to the operation of a vehicle on campus. In addition to potential city citations for violation of motor vehicle traffic laws or ordinances, students will receive a warning and referral to the Assistant Headmaster’s office for the following violations: 1. parking in a fire lane, 2. failure to park in a designated student parking area, 3. jumping (driving over) a curb, 4. double parking, 5. parking in a handicapped space or walkway, 6. parking in a crosswalk or ramp, 7. ignoring instructions from school staff monitoring the parking lot, 8. parking on a water sprinkler, or 9. driving recklessly. A student who has had parking privileges revoked may have his or her car towed at the student’s expense. Parking

Updated July 2017

Being able to bring a vehicle on campus is a privilege. The school is not responsible for damage to a vehicle that occurs while it is on campus. A student has full responsibility for the security of his or her vehicle and must make certain that it is locked and that the keys are not given to others. Any student who finds it necessary to go to his or her vehicle during the school day must request permission and sign-out at the front office.

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Vehicles parked on campus are under the jurisdiction of the school. School officials may search any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the presence of the student. A copy of a student’s driver’s license and insurance must be on file in the school office. Students who drive to campus must park in designated student parking spaces. These are located on the west side of Building 3 and all cars should be parked in the issued space. Students are required to rent a parking hang tag from the school office each year and display it in their vehicle while it is on campus. If required, the failure to purchase a hang tag will be considered a parking infraction and will result in appropriate disciplinary action. The parking fee is $10.00 per year. Parent-School Communication Parents may contact the school through email or by phone. Please consult the directory at the beginning of this handbook for faculty and staff contact information. A parent/teacher conference may be scheduled at any time a parent or the teacher thinks one is necessary. To schedule a conference with a teacher, please contact him or her via email. Grievances

Updated February 2015

Should a parent have a concern or grievance concerning a particular class or teacher, he or she should use email to schedule a meeting with the teacher concerned, outlining the subject of the meeting in advance. In most cases, problems are best addressed with the teacher first. Civil communication is expected at all times from all parties. Under no circumstances is it acceptable for a parent to confront a teacher about an issue with students present. Depending on the seriousness of the issue or at the request of the teacher or parent, a school administrator may be present. If the grievance cannot be resolved with the teacher and the matter is of a more serious nature, the parent should schedule a meeting with an Assistant Headmaster or the Headmaster. Generally speaking, the Assistant Headmaster for Student Affairs will handle matters of student discipline, the Assistant Headmaster for Academic Affairs will handle matters relating to grades and Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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assignments, and the Headmaster will handle concerns about academics and student performance. The Headmaster and Assistant Headmasters work together on all issues of school administration. If the grievance cannot be resolved after meeting with school administration, then a parent should submit his or her grievance to the Regional Director of Operations for the campus. For more information about the grievance process, please refer to the RES Parent/Student Handbook. Textbooks

Added July 2016

Founders Classical Academy provides students in 3rd grade and up with paperback copies of some literature books free of charge. Students are encouraged to annotate these books as they read them with the class and add them to their home libraries when the class is finished. If you have questions about whether a book is yours to keep after the school year, please ask your child’s teacher. Founders Classical Academy takes on the extra expense of providing students with some literature books free of charge because we hope to cultivate a love of reading, and because annotation is an important skill. If you would like to make a donation to the school to help offset the cost of these books, please make a check payable to Founders Classical Academy in the amount of $60 (the cost per child of literature books alone) or any amount you choose. Donations are optional. Other textbooks belong to the school and must be used year after year. Students are issued textbooks at the beginning of the year and are expected to keep them in good condition. Textbooks that travel home with the student should be carefully covered in paper (not cloth) at the beginning of the year and returned to the teacher when the class has concluded. Students who do not return their textbooks or who return them damaged will be charged for the cost of replacing the textbooks. Some textbooks are available for purchase at the front office. If you lose a book during the year, please ask the front office if they have a copy for sale. Withdrawals

Added September 2015

We are always sorry to have a student move from our school. To facilitate withdrawal of students from school, we ask that parents advise the campus registrar of an intended Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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withdrawal three days prior to leaving. A parent is required to meet with the registrar to sign the withdrawal paperwork prior to the student’s departure. This will provide adequate time for contacting teachers, closing the student’s records, and preparing transfer documents. All lunch charges, fines, and fees must be paid prior to withdrawal, and textbooks must be returned.

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Section 7: Appendices Appendix A: Alma Mater Added July 2017

Founders Classical Academy of Leander Alma Mater By Natasha de Virgilio and the Class of 2017 Arr. K. Morrow All hail to thee, oh Founders, To you we’re ever true, We sing to raise your banner high— Our pride, the white and blue. Though far from you we’ll wander To test our hearts and minds, We’ll ne’er forget what here we learned— To strive, to seek, to find. The good shall speed us onward, So let the years go by, We’ll ne’er forget our friendships dear— As archers, we aim high. Appendix B: Guidelines for Founders Archer Volunteers (FAVs) Updated July 2017 As a charter school, Founders Classical Academy operates with a smaller budget and fewer resources than the other public schools in our neighborhood. We are proud to provide our students with an excellent education on a small budget, and we are grateful to the supporters who contribute their time and treasure to help us do so. Parent volunteers are an essential part of Founders Classical Academy. No matter how you volunteer over the course of the school year, your help is essential in supporting the education of our students. Some volunteers may assist in the classroom with instructional or clerical tasks. Others may help shelve books in the library, assist with lunchtime, or work with the Archers Council on Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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fundraisers. Besides supporting the school, your volunteer efforts teach our children the importance of spending one’s time in the service of a worthy cause. Beginning the 2017-2018 school year, we are implementing a new program called Archer Hours. Founders asks that each family commit to volunteer 20 hours per family over the course of the 2017-2018 school year. These hours can be served by parents, grandparents, extended family, and siblings who have graduated from high school. Archer Hours can be served at school or in some cases, from home or over the summer. A family who is unable to serve 20 hours over the course of the year may buy out hours for the year with a suggested donation of $250. This annual donation helps to support school programs and offset the costs of the literature and math textbooks that the school gives to students each year. To get the most from your volunteer experience, it is important to be informed. This handbook contains important information about your work as a volunteer at our school. Please take the time to read through it carefully. If you still have any questions about volunteering, please contact the front office. How to become an approved volunteer Our parent organization, Responsive Education Solutions (RES), encourages volunteer involvement. RES policy requires that every volunteer undergo a background check before being allowed to work on a site. This link will take you to the volunteer application: https://responsiveed.cloud.talentedk12.com/hire/ViewJob.aspx?JobID=232 All volunteers should allow up to 3 weeks for the background check to be processed. You will receive an email from the volunteer liaison when your application has been approved. RES requires all volunteers to reapply annually. Volunteer applications will remain active for one year from the application date. A volunteer must reapply each year in order to be considered for volunteer approval. By completing this application online, you are also agreeing with an electronic signature to having us request this background check. The school district pays for the actual background check.

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How to start volunteering To begin volunteering, view the Founders Archers Volunteer Toolkit online on the volunteer tab of our Archers in Action blog: http://foundersleander-archersinaction.blogspot.com/p/volunteers.html On this page you will find all the helpful links and information in your FAV toolkit: ● Responsive Ed Volunteer Application (online, must be completed at the beginning of each year) ● Founders Archer Volunteers Google Calendar ● SignUp Genius (links are found on the FAV calendar description) ● Volunteer hours log ● Badge Request Form ● Confidentiality Agreement ● Founders Archer Volunteer Opt Out Form ● Guidelines for School Volunteers (Appendix C of the Founders Leander Family Handbook) ● Volunteer Job Descriptions (listed at the bottom of this document) Founders Archer Volunteers Calendar This calendar will be used in conjunction with SignUp Genius to coordinate our FAVs. Use the calendar to find the right volunteer opportunity that fits your schedule and talent. The sign up links will be in the descriptions on the calendar. You must be an approved volunteer to serve at any RES school. How to log and monitor your Archer Hours Each time you arrive to volunteer you must sign in at the front office and obtain your FAV badge. FAVs will use the Founders Archer Volunteer Hour Log form to log Archer Hours. When you are done volunteering, sign out at the front office and return your badge. The log can also be used at home to record volunteer hours served during non office hours (i.e. sporting events, fundraising events).

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The school’s volunteer liaison will use Jupiter to monitor volunteer hours. All families will be set up with a single line item in the billing section of Jupiter for Founders Family Archer Volunteer Hours. As hours are served, they will be credited back to the account. The volunteer liaison will record hours from the FAV Hour Log so families can track their hours from home. Families choosing the buyout option will be recorded in Jupiter upon receipt of their donation. Families that choose not to volunteer or donate may fill out the FAV Opt Out form. Volunteer Job Descriptions During the school day These jobs are listed on the volunteer calendar because they need to be filled daily or weekly. These jobs are for specific dates and times. You will be working directly with the students. ● Crossing Guard – Morning and afternoon shifts available at both the Grammar and Upper school crosswalks. Morning shift is 7:15-8:00. The afternoon shift is from 3:00-3:45. You will help students safely across the crosswalk and move the parking cones before (pm) or after (am) your shift. ● Lunch and Recess Duty – This is a great opportunity to help a teacher take a break during lunch time. Lunch and recess volunteers will be needed to watch students and enforce all safety rules on the playground. Volunteers will then escort students into the cafeteria. Volunteers are required to move around the cafeteria and assist students in preparing lunches (i.e. opening packaging, setting up the microwave, handing out napkins and utensils, etc.) This job is specific to the Grammar School lunch. ● Library – All of our students love the library but have limited time to find and check out their books especially for the younger grammar students. We need multiple volunteers throughout the week to keep our libraries running smoothly. Volunteers must attend a short training to learn about the library software and expectations about student behavior in the library before signing up. ● Reading Group – Volunteer your time in the classroom with our Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grade reading groups. Reading is done daily in the mornings. On your own time These jobs are listed on the volunteer calendar on a need basis. Some jobs can be done at home and many require limited time directly with students: Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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● Brown Bag – These projects can be done at home & on your own time! Instructions for individual teacher projects, including making copies, cutting and pasting, etc can be found in the Building 1 library (copies, cut, paste, coloring, etc). ● Bulletin Board – Teachers will provide materials and instruction for updating and creating new boards. ● Copier assistance – Help our teachers by making copies here at school. Instructions are given by individual teachers. ● House Events – Each house hosts one event a year. These events are student-led but require adult volunteers. ● Science Lab Assistant – Help set up and clean up for Grammar school and Upper school science classes. ● Lost & Found - Volunteers need to collect items from around campus and organize them for distribution on a monthly basis. Please check the calendar for distribution dates. Archers Council The following list of volunteer opportunities are specific to the Archers Council and its committees. These volunteer hours are not monitored through the school office but count toward your Archer Hours: ● Archers Council - Members of the Archers Council board and subsequent committees can log their meeting hours as well as event hours. ○ Archers Support Committee - ASC is the FCA parent teacher organization. Volunteer opportunities are available directly with the committee. ○ Archers Athletic Booster Club - The AABC supports the FCA athletic program There are several volunteer opportunities at the sporting events (concessions/ticket sales, score keeping, etc.) and fundraisers. ○ Fine Arts Booster Club - The FABC supports our art, music and theater programs. There are several volunteer opportunities at FABC sponsored events and fundraisers. ○ Teacher Appreciation – There are monthly opportunities to show your appreciation for our teachers as well as a week long event in the spring, Parent/Teacher conferences and orientation in August.

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○ Watch D.O.G.S. – Calling Dads of Great Students: Come spend time on campus with odd jobs, campus improvements and helping with your student. Search the Volunteer Calendar for Watch DOG opportunities. How to Be a Successful Volunteer No matter what kind of volunteer work you do, or who you do it for, there are some common qualities that will help you be a successful volunteer at Founders Classical Academy. Sign in and out. All volunteers should enter through the front doors of Building 3 and proceed directly to sign in. For the safety of our children, all volunteers must sign in upon arrival. Volunteer badges must be worn at all times when on campus. By signing in, you are making it possible for school personnel to locate you in the event of an emergency. It is important that you write your name legibly, as well as the location where you will be working, and the type of work you will be doing. It is also important to remember to sign out when you leave. This is so that we know who is on campus in case of emergency. Dress appropriately. Founders Classical Academy has high expectations for student dress. Although volunteers do not have a particular clothing requirement, their attire should reflect the standards of Founders Classical Academy. Volunteers are asked to wear neat clothing while working in the school and during school activities. Skirts and shorts should be of modest length, and blouses and tops should be conservative. Come by yourself, not with children. We regret that we cannot allow volunteers to bring younger children with them to the school, except for babies that are carried or worn by the parent at all times. If you would like to volunteer but are unable to come to the school because you have a young child at home, please sign up for volunteer work that can be done remotely. Please remember that it is not always possible or preferable for you to work with your own child. Different children react in different ways when their parents are in the classroom. Some demand more attention, while others totally ignore their parents. Be sure to discuss your role as Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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a volunteer with your child, and explain that you might not be able to give him or her your usual attention. If a teacher determines that you should not work with your own child, or in your child’s classroom, please respect that decision. Show an interest in the students. ● Learn about classical education and the mission of our school so that you can support the students while on campus. ● Encourage and support children of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and personalities. ● Encourage children to do their best and offer genuine praise when they succeed. Support the teachers and the staff. ● Be respectful of the teachers. ● Do not publicly question or criticize the teacher or the teacher’s methods. ● Ensure that your interpretation of the school’s rules and expectations matches that of the school. ● Involve appropriate school personnel when students disobey school or classroom rules. Don’t take disciplinary measures into your own hands. ● There may be times when you are in school volunteering in another area or visiting your child, and you want to go to the classroom or out to recess to see if the teacher needs any help. Please wait for the front office to assign you to a classroom and give you a schedule for volunteering. Safety regulations and school procedure will require that you make an appointment with the teacher before going into a classroom. You may be denied access to the classroom or the playground if you do not have prior approval. Be responsible with confidential information. As a volunteer, you may learn information about our students and their academic performance that you would not otherwise know. Ensure that all of this private information is held in confidence. Remember that you are in school for a relatively short portion of time. Therefore, your perception of a situation can be mistaken because you are not aware of all of the circumstances. If you have questions or concerns about something, please ask the teacher about it directly and privately. Please don’t speculate with friends or on Facebook.

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Discuss information about student academic performance and behavior only with appropriate school staff. You may not discuss a child’s progress with his or her parent. All communications about a child’s schoolwork must go to the parents from the appropriate school staff, not from other parents. If parents ask you about a child’s progress, suggest in a friendly way that they contact the teacher directly. Remember that student and parent contact information is for school and Archers Council use only and that parents must give prior approval Be dependable. ● Be prompt and reliable. People are counting on you to be there! ● Set an example of professionalism and good citizenship. ● Let the front office know as soon as possible if schedule changes prevent you from making your commitment. Communicate well. ● If you are unsure about how equipment works or how your job should be done, ask a member of school staff or a teacher. ● Don’t let small problems turn into big ones. Communicate any concerns or problems with a member of the staff immediately. ● Decline any task for which you are unqualified or unwilling to perform. ● Provide feedback about volunteer opportunities. We want to know how to improve our volunteer program!

Other Details Volunteers must use staff restrooms. Please do not use restrooms designated for students. If you are unable to come at your scheduled time or if you will be late, please call the school and leave a message. Remember that someone is counting on you. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Please do not use your cell phone while on campus. Only emergency phone calls should be made. Turn off cell phone ringers while volunteering. If you sign in properly, the office staff can locate you in the event of an emergency. Frequently Asked Questions about Volunteering 1. How do I become a volunteer? All Founders Classical Academy volunteers must complete an online volunteer application and undergo a background check. The volunteer application is available on the school website. Once you are approved, you must sign a confidentiality agreement. This is available at the front office and on Jupiter. 2. Why do I need an ID badge? The teacher knows who I am. Even though your child’s teacher knows you, other teachers might not. It is important that all adults on campus be identified with a badge so students and school employees know they are approved to be on campus and an important member of the team. 3. Why do volunteers have to sign in and out? For security reasons, and in case of an emergency, our staff must know who is on campus and why. 4. How do I find out what volunteer opportunities are available? Please visit www.foundersleander.com for a list of current volunteer opportunities. 5. I’d like to volunteer, but I can’t offer my services on a regular basis. What do I do? We would love to have your help, even if you can’t commit to a regular schedule. You could be a special activity volunteer who is involved with special school projects, or you could work from home. Please speak to the front office about ways you can help. 6. I’d like to volunteer, but I have a preschool-age child. Can I bring my child? We’re sorry, but volunteers may not bring younger siblings with them to volunteer unless they are babies who can be carried or worn the whole time at school. If you are able to volunteer Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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from home, we would love to have your help! Please speak to the front office about opportunities. 7. What if something happens and I can’t make my scheduled time? It is important that volunteers be dependable, but we understand that unexpected things can come up. If an illness or an emergency arises, please let the front office know as soon as possible. 8. What do I do about discipline? Nothing. It is the responsibility of school employees to take care of student discipline. Volunteers should not discipline students. If you observe something that requires the teacher’s attention, please notify him or her immediately. 9. What if I don’t feel qualified to perform the assignment I was given? Please tell the front office that you would prefer another task. It is important for us to know if you are uncomfortable in a certain role or unwilling to perform it. 10. Should I tell my neighbor if I see her child misbehaving at school? Absolutely not! Adults at school have the responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of students. Sharing tidbits about a child’s behavior or academic progress can be detrimental to the child. Please respect the privacy of our students and allow communication to happen through the proper channels. 11. What if I see something I’m concerned about? Please notify school staff immediately. It is not a volunteer’s job to contact parents about anything occurring at school. Teachers are governed by multiple legal obligations and restraints. It is the teacher’s responsibility to decide when further action is necessary. 12. What if I have questions about my own child? Please arrange a separate time for a conference with your child’s teacher. Volunteer time is valuable and often tightly scheduled.

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Appendix C: Athletic Code of Conduct 2017-2018 The Code of Conduct is designed for student athletes and their parents to help define the role of educational athletics at Founders Classical Academy of Leander. The basic goals of Interscholastic Athletics are defined and the policies and regulations necessary to achieve these goals are presented. It is imperative that athletes and parents have knowledge of this material. The athletic program shall be conducted in accordance with existing Founders Leander policies, rules, and regulations. While the school takes pride in fielding successful teams, it does not condone winning at all costs. The school discourages any and all pressures that might lead to neglecting good sportsmanship and good health. At all times, the athletic program must be conducted in such a way that it is an educational activity. School success, unity, and pride are greatly enhanced by proper student participation in school-sponsored activities. Objectives of the Founders Leander Athletic Program 1. The athlete learns the value of teamwork, self-discipline, a strong work ethic and sacrifice. Contribution to the team is more important than personal goals or individual achievement. 2. The athlete learns how to be a competitor while developing self-control, honesty and a spirit of cooperation. 3. The athlete learns to be a good winner as well as a gracious loser in defeat. Good sportsmanship is a major objective for all Founders Leander teams. 4. The athlete learns to appreciate the skills and abilities of his/her opponent. 5. The athlete learns an appreciation of playing by given rules. 6. The athlete learns the value of physical fitness that leads to a sound body, healthy mind, and lifelong healthy habits. 7. The athlete learns, in a positive manner, to cope with the competitive nature of athletics. Athletic Code Participation in Founders Leander athletics is regarded as a privilege and not a right. All athletes shall abide by a code of ethics that will earn them the honor and respect that participation and competition in the interscholastic program affords. Any conduct that results in dishonor to the athlete, team, or school will not be tolerated. Acts of unacceptable conduct tarnish the reputation of everyone associated with the athletic program.

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When a student voluntarily participates in interscholastic athletics, he/she agrees to abide by the Athletic Code of Conduct throughout his/her athletic career. The Code of Conduct begins with a student’s first day of participation in interscholastic athletics and continues through their date of graduation and is in effect during vacation breaks, summer recess and off-season times. Requirements for Participation Physical Examination A yearly physical examination is required and must be submitted to the office before a student can participate in any practice or competitions, including tryouts. The best time to get a physical is during the summer, as this ensures the athlete will be covered for the entire school year. If a physical is set to expire during a season, a new physical must be procured before the season begins. The form will be kept on file at Founders Leander. Emergency Medical Authorization An Emergency Medical Authorization sheet must be completed giving permission for treatment by a physician or hospital when a parent is not available (part of physical form). The information will be kept with the head coach and on hand at all practices and contests. Please note that Founders Leander does not carry insurance to cover student athletic injuries. Parental Acknowledgement of Athletic Policies Each parent/guardian and athlete shall read the Athletic Code of Conduct and certify that they understand the athletic eligibility rules and policies of Founders Leander. Scholastic Eligibility In order to participate in Founders Leander athletics, each athlete must meet the school and athletic league’s academic requirements. All textbook replacement and late-pick up fees must be paid. Students must have met the requirements of the 90% attendance rule. When grades for an academic quarter are finalized, any students who have failed a class will be ruled ineligible for school athletics for the following quarter. Students who are academically ineligible are not permitted to dress out for or participate in team contests, nor are they granted early release for team events. A team “contest” is defined as an intramural competition overseen by third party officials. Equipment Responsibilities All athletes are responsible for the proper care and security of equipment issued to them. School furnished equipment is to be worn only for team competitions and team practices. All equipment not returned in a timely manner and in good condition at the end of the season will be subject to a financial penalty. Athletic Training Rules Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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1. School Discipline: Any student-athlete referred to the office of the headmaster for a school rules violation may be denied the privilege of participation in all athletic activities for a period determined by the headmaster and athletic director. 2. Coach’s Rules: Coaches may establish additional rules and regulations for their respective sport with the approval of the athletic director. These additional rules will be stated in writing and explained fully by the coach during a parents meeting at the start of the season. 3. Fighting or Flagrant Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Fighting, taunting, or displaying any sort of poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated. Any athlete that receives a technical, red card, or ejection must meet with the athletic director to discuss the behavior. 4. Dropping from a Team: Quitting is an unacceptable habit. Students who do not finish a season damage their team and limit their potential future participation. On occasion, however, an athlete may find it necessary to drop a sport for a good reason. If this is the case the following procedure must be followed: a. Consult with the head coach. b. Consult with the athletic director. c. If the final decision is to stop participating, check in all equipment immediately. 5. Missing Practice: An athlete must consult directly with the coach before missing practice. Missing practice (or a game) without good reason will be dealt with by the coach. Please avoid scheduling any appointments or events during practice or contests. Communicate any planned absences as soon as possible. 6. Travel: Occasionally, the school may provide transportation for out-of-town contests, in which case a transportation permission form must be on file (annually) with the front office. Athletes may return home with a parent after such a contest provided a note signed by the parent is given to the coach or direct communication occurs with the coach. Athletes will remain with their team under the supervision of the coach until the end of the contest. Unless there is an exceptional situation athletes are not to leave a contest early. 7. Alcohol, Tobacco, Drugs: Any student using and/or possessing alcohol, tobacco, or drugs shall be in violation. This rule is in effect twelve months of the year. Penalty for Violation: The Athletic Director and Headmaster shall meet to determine the penalty according to the degree of the infraction. Other consequences may be implemented due to the seriousness of the infraction. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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8. Grooming and Dress Policy: An athlete shall dress presentably at all times, such as on trips, at assemblies, and banquets. Only uniforms issued by the school will be worn for contests. Athletes must follow sport specific jewelry and uniform rules. 9. Conflicts with Extracurricular Activities: The athletic department recognizes that all students should have the opportunity for a broad range of experiences and extracurricular activities and will attempt to schedule school events in a manner to minimize conflicts. Students have the responsibility to avoid continuing conflicts. They must also immediately notify the coaches involved when a conflict arises. Students that participate on non-school teams must communicate with the school coach to determine an agreed upon schedule for the season. In general, school sports take precedent over non-school sports or activities. 10. School Attendance: Students must meet the 90% attendance rule in order to participate. On the day of a contest or practice, students must be in attendance at least a half day (8 a.m. to 12 p.m., or 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.) in order to participate. Students missing a half or full day of school to participate in an athletic contest must fill out a prearranged absence form in advance. All work should be made up at the discretion of the teacher. If a detention should be served on the day it is given, the student may be ineligible for practice or competition on that day. Final authority for infractions of this rule will rest with the headmaster. 11. Vacation Policy: Taking a vacation during a sports season is discouraged. In the event of an unavoidable absence for a vacation an athlete must communicate with the coach well in advance and be willing to assume consequences related to his/her status on the team. 12. Reporting of Injury: All injuries should be reported to the head coach. If the injury requires medical attention by a doctor, the athlete must obtain the doctor’s written permission to return to the activity. 13. Social Media: All school or personal use of social media should be conducted in a responsible and respectful manner, as it reflects on the athletic program as a whole.

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Philosophy of Winning and Participation Winning is one of the goals of the Founders Leander teams, within guidelines of the different levels of the program. Founders Leander will make every effort to provide every student a chance to participate on a school team. Being awarded a roster spot on any team should be seen as a privilege, and playing time is a reward earned through commitment and effort. Middle School Participation in middle school athletics is an introduction to interscholastic sports.  Skill development, sportsmanship, and team philosophy are important goals at this level. Founders Leander will attempt to provide an opportunity for all students to participate. Coaches will do their best to create playing time for all eligible team members during each contest, but not equally. Sixth graders are eligible to participate in middle school sports, and upon rare occasions seventh or eighthgrade students may be given the opportunity to be on the roster of a high school team. These situations will only occur when it appears to be in the best long-run interests of the student and the program, after discussion and agreement by parents, coaches, and the athletic director. The final decision to allow a middle school student to “play up” rests with the athletic director, and will be an infrequent occurrence.  

9/10 and Junior Varsity (JV) When conditions allow, Founders Leander will create transition teams between the middle school and varsity competition. While 9/10 is limited to underclassmen, a JV team can include juniors and seniors. The level of intensity at practice as well as in contests will be increased over middle school teams. The commitment and dedication to the team and sport also must increase. The athlete will be given the opportunity to earn playing time through the demonstration of increased skills at practice and dedication to the team. Coaches will attempt to give each eligible team member playing time, but playing time will not be equal for each player, and situations may arise when the coach cannot play everyone. Varsity Varsity level athletic teams are the focal point of the Founders Leander athletic program. To be a part of a varsity team is an honor in itself that must be earned. At this level there is no guarantee of playing time. The intensity of the competition will determine when the best athletes will be on the field, court, track or course.  Resolving Athletic Issues If an athlete or parent has a concern to discuss with a coach: 1. The athlete is encouraged to solve his or her own problems first with the coach. 2. Call/email the coach to set up an appointment. Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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3. Do not attempt to confront a coach immediately before or after a contest. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach, so a minimum of 24 hours is required to have passed after a contest before a parent can speak with a coach about it. If the meeting with the coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution: 1. Set up an appointment with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation. 2. At this meeting the appropriate next step can be determined. Rosters It is the goal of Founders Leander to provide as many quality athletic opportunities as possible within our resource constraints (coaches, gym space, funding, etc.). Occasionally, when interest in a sport exceeds roster constraints, tryouts will be necessary. In these cases, the tryout information will be published publically and multiple coaches will be present during the evaluation process. Final authority for all team rosters lies with the Athletic Director, regardless of whether tryouts were held. Dual Participation Students are allowed to participate in more than one sport each season. In such a case the studentathlete, his/her parents, the coaches, and athletic director must meet to discuss and design the practice/contest schedule for the athlete. A primary and secondary sport must be designated so there is no confusion when schedule conflicts arise. Physical Education and Participation All student-athletes who are in PE must participate in all activities during class, regardless of after school practices or game commitments. If modifications need to be made the student should speak with the instructor in advance. Uniform Policy All school issued uniforms and equipment are to be used for athletic contests and practices only.  These items are not to be worn in PE class, in school, in the community, or at home.  The only exception is if an entire team wears their school-issued apparel for a special occasion approved by the coach. A student-athlete will not be allowed to play in a future season until all school issued uniforms, warm ups, equipment, etc. have been returned. Lost or damaged items may result in a fine.  

Founders Leander athletes will be uniform in appearance.  All uniforms will comply with sportspecific rules and these rules will not be altered to bring attention to an individual. Acknowledgement When a student-athlete accepts a position on a team in the Founders Leander athletic department, the athlete and his/her family agrees to abide by the policies and processes laid out in this Athletic Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018

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Code of Conduct. The administration of Founders Leander is responsible for the interpretation of this document, and holds the authority to enforce it in the manner that is deemed best for the longterm success of the athletic department and school as a whole. Prior to formalizing a position on a team, coaches and athletes should bring any questions regarding this Athletic Code of Conduct to the attention of the Athletic Director.

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Appendix D: Statement on Bowties This Family Handbook, like nearly all things, is imperfect, and must be amended from time to time. In the founding year of our school, two enterprising Upper School students, Logan Carpenter and Christian Cruz, noticed an ambiguity in the language of the handbook. Boys were asked to wear navy blue ties on Formal Wednesday, but no guidance was given about bow ties. In the absence of a clear rule, it fell to Mr. Carpenter, Mr. Cruz, and Dr. O’Toole to interpret the spirit of the handbook and reason together about whether the addition of bow ties to the Formal Wednesday uniform would be advisable. The document below is the product of their deliberations. It is provided here as a model for future suggested amendments to the handbook, and for your amusement.

Founders Classical Academy Statement on Bowties The Founders Classical Academy Student Handbook 2014-2015 states the following under the requirements for Formal Wednesday: “Beginning in 4th Grade boys will be required to wear navy blue ties.” The question is raised, may a boy wear a navy blue bowtie on Formal Wednesday? After considering the matter carefully, we answer the following: WHEREAS the bowtie is a classic accessory, appropriate to the classical environment of the school; WHEREAS wearing a bowtie gives a student a personalized look that is also modest and clean; WHEREAS many of the teachers wear bowties; WHEREAS 46 out of 53 students surveyed by Mr. Logan Carpenter and Mr. Cristian Cruz responded that bowties are classy and not distracting from work or concentration; WHEREAS bowties would promote school spirit and be fun; WHEREAS bowties are available in navy blue; And finally, WHEREAS making bowties an acceptable part of the uniform would give Mr. Logan Carpenter the opportunity to practice tying them regularly, A bowtie is an acceptable and even encouraged accessory for boys in grades 4 and up on Formal Wednesday. Signed, on this 29th day of September 2014, Kathleen O’Toole Headmaster

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Appendix E: Student and Parent Agreement FOUNDERS CLASSICAL ACADEMY 2017-18 HANDBOOK Acknowledgement of Receipt and Oath of Loyalty The Founders Classical Academy of Leander handbook outlines the policies and procedures that are necessary to promote the mission of the school: The mission of Founders Classical Academy is to train the minds and improve the hearts of students through a rigorous, classical education in the liberal arts and sciences, with instruction in good character and civic virtue. The success of our school depends on a close partnership between parent, student, and the school and fidelity to the school’s mission. Please sign below to acknowledge your receipt of the campus handbook and your commitment to abide by the provisions contained therein. I swear to uphold the mission of Founders Classical Academy and to observe the good, the true, and the beautiful in word and deed. ______________________________________ Student Name ____________________________________ Student Signature ______________________________________________ Date _____________________________________ Parent Signature

Please access this form through your Jupiter account and submit it online.

Founders Classical Academy of Leander Parent/Student Handbook 2017-2018