2018 Girls Volleyball Schedule
- Wed, Feb 28 Tipton v Hanley – 5:00 home
- Fri, March 2 Tipton v Huda– 5:00 home
- Mon, March 5 Tipton v TDA – 5:00 home
- Thurs, March 7 Tipton v MI Collegiate – 5:00 away
- Mon, March 12 Tipton v P.A.E. – 5:00 away
- Wed, March 14 Tipton v David Ellis Academy West – 5:00 away
- Thurs, March 15 Tipton v Cresent Academy – 5:00 home
- Mon, March 19 Tipton v Commonwealth – 5:00 away
- Wed, March 21 Tipton v Caniff– 5:00 home
- Mon, March 26 Tipton v Riverside – 5:00 away
- Wed, March 28 Tipton v Star Academy – 5:00 away
- Tues, Apr 10 Tipton v ULA – 5:00 home
- Wed, Apr 11 Tipton v Creative – 5:00 home
“A place where children are not things to be molded, but people to be unfolded.”
1615 Belton St., Garden City, MI 48135
tipton-academy.org
Parent and Student Handbook
INTRODUCTION
Forward
The Tipton Academy Handbook was developed as a guide and resource to answer many of the common questions asked by students and parents in regard to Board policies and procedures. The handbook will provide information that is very important to know. However, if you have any questions that are not addressed in the handbook you are more than welcome to talk with your student’s teacher or the school Administrator.
Equal Education Opportunity
It is the policy of Tipton Academy to provide equal education opportunity to every Tipton student.
Mission
Tipton Academy, in partnership with students, staff, parents and community members will challenge all students to realize their full potential by providing them with the highest quality educational program and cultural experiences.
Vision
The vision of Tipton Academy is to help all students become successful learners and prepare for the future.
Beliefs All children must be respected and in turn learn to respect others. All children can be inspired to learn by recognizing their unique gifts, talents, and modality of retrieving and using information. All children learn best by engaging in real-life experiences in an atmosphere that is safe and orderly. All children will be encouraged to build strong relationships, which will increase trust while positively impacting learning. All staff will work as a “team” toward reaching the school’s mission and vision. All stakeholders will be part of the Academy’s success by fostering a positive partnership. All children can develop a responsible role and make contributions in a democratic society through a strong curriculum that challenges each of them to reach his or her potential.
Educational Philosophy
Tipton Academy represents “team spirit” and “positive partnerships” with students and families, all school staff and members of the community.
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The teaching staff is keenly aware that they must be positive role models and caring instructors and exhibit characteristics such as integrity, creativity, loyalty, responsibility, honesty, and intelligence that are valued by all stakeholders.
In addition, it is very important that both the teacher and the parent communicate regularly regarding their children. Both should be open and responsive to one another’s suggestions and concerns.
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General Information
School Day
Academy School Hours
Start of School 8:00 am – Breakfast served from 7:30-7:55 am
Lunch Period 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Dismissal 3:45 pm
Half Day Dismissal 11:30 am
Office Hours
7:30 am – 4:15 pm
Tipton Academy Board of Directors
President - Dan Griwicki Vice President - Kevin Szuba
Treasurer - Scott Winiger Secretary - Jackie Jones
Trustee – Aleisha O’Driscoll
Administrator Director of School Dev. and Compliance
Suzanne March Jaylee Lynch
Office Manager
Michelle Jones Darlene Sensoli
Education Service Provider Public School Academy Authorizer
The Romine Group Inc. Lake Superior State University
7877 Stead, Suite 100 650 W Easterday Ave
Utica, MI 48317 Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
www.therominegroup.com http://www.lssu.edu/charter/
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TIPTON ACADEMY ANNUAL CALENDAR 2014/15
Student hours 8:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.
August 18, 2014 Teachers Report – Staff Professional Development Training
August 21 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
August 28 Ice Cream Social Meet/Greet 5-7 p.m.
September 2 First day of school – ½ day of school – dismissal 11:30 a.m
September 10 GSRP Parent Meeting 6:30 p.m. September 15 1st day of school for GSRP students
September 18 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
Sept. 23-Oct. 1 Global Scholars Testing
October 1 Student Count Day
October 16 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
October 31 Teacher Professional Development -½ day dismissal 11:30 a.m.
November 14 End of trimester – No school for students – Records Day
November 20 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
November 26 Thanksgiving Break ½ day of school – dismissal 11:30 a.m.
November 27-28 Thanksgiving Break
December 1 Students return from break
December 4 & 5 Parent/Teacher conferences – ½ day of school-dismissal at 11:30 a.m.
December 18 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
December 22 Winter break begins
January 5, 2015 Staff/students return from winter break
January 15 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
January 19 Professional Development Day – ½ day of school-dismissal at 11:30 a.m.
January 20-30 Global Scholars Testing
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February 11 Student Count Day
February 13-17 No School – Mid winter break
February 18 Staff/students return
February 19 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
February 23 Re-enrollment Window open for 2015-16 School year
March 4 Kindergarten Round-up 9:00 a.m.
March 5 Kindergarten Round-up 7:00 p.m. March 6 End of 2nd trimester – Records day – No school for students
March 19 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
March 16-31 Open enrollment window
March 25 Open enrollment 4-7 p.m.
March 27 No school for students – open enrollment 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. A.M. conferences by request – P.M. Professional development for staff
March 29 Open enrollment 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
March 31 End of open enrollment
April 2 Half day – dismissal 11:30 a.m. Spring Break begins
April 13 Staff/students return from Spring Break
April 13 – 24 State Testing
April 16 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
May 1 Professional Development – ½ day of school-dismissal at 11:30 am
May 18-29 Global Scholars Testing
May 21 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
May 22 -25 No School – Memorial Day Observed
May 26 Staff/students return
June 17 Last Day of School – dismissal at 11:30 a.m.
June 18 Board Meeting 6:30 p.m.
180 Days – 1350 hours
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INDEX
INTRODUCTION Forward Equal Opportunity Mission Vision Beliefs Education Philosophy
GENERAL INFORMATION School Day Office Hours Board of Directors Administrative Staff Educational Service Provider Public School Academy Authorizer Annual School Calendar
OVERVIEW Admission to the Academy Parent Involvement/Commitment Daily Procedures – Arrival AM and PM Facility Safety Procedures Lunch Recess Dismissal Individual Student Dismissal Latchkey Program Telephone Academy Visitors Volunteer Policy Academy Closings Textbooks/Supplies Homework Request for Homework Communications Student Records “Right” Students Records Moving?
SCHOOL-WIDE POLICIES Cell Phones, MP3’s, and other Electronic Devices Student Cameras Internet Use Policy Lost and Found Student Solicitation Academic Celebrations
ATTENDANCE POLICIES Attendance Policies and Procedures Procedure for Late Arrival Attendance/Credits Earned Attendance/Religious Instruction
DRESS Overview Dress Code Dress Code K-5
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION
STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Special Education Services Special Education Policies Section 504 Homeless Students
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Book Bag and Locker Checks Medical Requirements Injuries and Illnesses Medical Excuses Communicable Diseases Administration of Medications Illness and Incidents Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect Field Trips Athletics/After-School Clubs Tutoring Social Events
GRADING POLICIES Grading Scale Honor/Awards Behavioral Probation Report Cards/Conferences Appointments with Educators Retention Tests
DISCIPLINE OVERVIEW Student Responsibilities Discipline of Special Education Students Academy-Wide Rules Classroom Rules
ACADEMY STUDENT DISCILINE POLICY Sexual Harassment Child Abuse or Neglect Educator Empowerment to Suspend a Student Student Behavior Code Disciplinary Probation
DISCIPLINE ACTIONS AND MINIMUM PENALTIES Parent Grievances Early Age Permanent Withdrawal from School
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OVERVIEW
The regular school day begins at 8:00 am and ends at 3:45 pm. Breakfast will be served in the south building lunch room from 7:30 am – 7:55 am. Breakfast is over at 7:55 am.
Regular Daily Schedule (K-6th Grades) 7:30 Doors Open for Breakfast 7:55 Doors Open – students should report directly to classroom 8:00 Classes begin 8:05 Tardy Bell 8:00-3:45 Students proceed through the school day
Each student will have 30 minutes to complete his or her lunch. There are 2 lunch periods for grades K – 6th:
1st Lunch – 11:30-12:00 Pre K-3 2nd Lunch – 12:00-12:30 Grades 4-6
ADMISSION INTO ACADEMY
During the school year, parents wishing to enroll their child into Tipton Academy are required to complete an application and provide all necessary documentation including proof of Michigan residency. If space is available, the parent will receive an acceptance letter for their child. If space is not available, the child will be placed on the waiting list and called in the order they signed in (based on date and time of submitted application).
During public enrollment for the proceeding school year, parents must also complete the application and provide all necessary documentation including proof of Michigan residency. However, if space is not available, children will be admitted on the basis of the lottery system according to the Board of Directors policy. One week at the end of each school year is a designated period for parents wishing to re-enroll their child. All parents will be required to complete a form to reserve their child’s placement for the following school year.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT AND COMMITMENT
By enrolling your child at Tipton Academy, you have chosen to participate in a unique educational experience that actively involves both you and your child. We ask that you demonstrate your commitment to Tipton Academy by… Ensuring your child will attend school on a regular basis. He/she should attend school unless he/she is unable to function at school due to illness. We also ask that you schedule vacation in conjunction with school breaks and holidays. Ensuring your child will be on time to school each day. Being on time is critical to minimizing interruptions to instruction and learning time for all children in a class. One child being 5 minutes late each day means a loss of two full school days in a
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school year for the entire class. Consider the loss over time when there are multiple tardies. Respect the need to have your child at school on time. Provide your child with the necessary materials and time to complete assignments requiring library references, computer access and other research materials. See that your child is dressed properly in adherence to the dress code policy. Attend conferences and communicate with your child’s teachers to monitor progress and to address questions and concerns as they occur. Read and return, on time, as requested, all informational materials sent home by the school and classroom teacher in order to ensure good communication. Adhering to policies and procedures within this handbook and at the school including behavior in the parking lot and on school grounds. Responding respectfully and appropriately to all staff, students, parents, and guests within the Tipton community and at the school.
Complaint Procedure: If you have a disagreement with a teacher or the administration, you should make every attempt to settle the problem with that person, without involving others. Should it not be settled, the two should go to the next line of authority to arbitrate the difficulty (Teacher, Vice Principal, Principal, The Romine Group, Board of Directors). It is the goal of Tipton Academy to respond to complaints and problems as soon as possible.
DAILY PROCEDURES—ARRIVAL
Students should arrive at school between 7:45 am and 7:50 am, however students will not be permitted to enter the building until 7:50 am unless they are eating breakfast. Please have students dress appropriately for weather if they will arrive prior to 7:50 am. No matter the weather conditions they will not be permitted inside the building prior to 7:50 am. Students need to enter the building in an orderly fashion; they may not run, shout, or otherwise act in a disorderly manner. Parents of K-6th grade students may drop off their children at their designated entry doors. Upon arriving to school, all students are expected to remain outside of the school facility until 7:50 am unless registered for Latchkey, breakfast or accompanied by an adult.
Students arriving before 7:45 am will be sent to Latchkey, which is open from 6:45 am to 7:45 am. From 7:45 am to 7:50 am Latchkey students are expected to wait outside the office until 7:50 am when they may proceed to their assigned classroom.
Prompt arrival into the classroom is essential. School entry doors lock at 8:00 am and all students arriving tardy to school will be directed through the main office to their classrooms. At 8:05 am, parents must escort their children and sign students in at the school office. From there the student may proceed to their classroom. Once class has begun, it is distracting to the other students to have their classmates entering the room late so please make every effort to have your child to school on time.
AM & PM FACILITY SAFETY PROCEDURES
Parents are to follow the mapped out drop off and pick up procedures. Cars may only park in designated parking spots so they do not interfere with the traffic flow.
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Students and parents are to use the main entrance doors for entering & exiting the building between 8:00 am and 3:15pm. All visitors during this time MUST report to the main office and sign in. No visitors will be permitted into the classroom corridors without prior approval. This is for the protection of all students and staff in the building.
LUNCH
Each student will have 30 minutes to complete his or her lunch. Students are expected to follow the Lunch Room Behavior Code and respect all adults, whether Tipton staff or parent volunteers, when enforcing this Code. Students are expected to stay in the classroom and ask permission before leaving the classroom. Students are to use quiet voices when conversing with other students. Yelling across the table or room is not acceptable. Students are expected to use good table manners while at lunch and to clean up their area after eating.
Any student that does not follow the Behavior Code will be referred to the Administrator. Continual problems will result in loss of room privileges and will be required to eat in the school office or other assigned area with their parent/guardian, if necessary.
A daily hot lunch program is offered to all students at Tipton from an outside food service. Menus are distributed to parents monthly. Payment for lunches must be made in advance according to the lunch schedule. No lunches can be purchased the same day.
There are no refrigerators or microwaves for student use. All lunches brought in need to be prepared ahead of time. Drink boxes, for example, can be frozen the night before and packed in the student’s lunch to keep items cool.
Caffeinated beverages, energy drinks, or other similar products and fast food delivery are not permitted for students.
Parents/guardians may only take their children off school premises for lunch in special circumstances and after receiving approval from the principal or other school administrator. Approval is also required from the principal or a school administrator to bring an outside lunch from a restaurant (McDonalds, Taco Bell, etc.) and is only approved for special circumstances or occasions such as the child’s birthday.
RECESS
For grades Pre K-3, students will have recess immediately following their lunch period for approximately 15 minutes. Grades 4-6 will have recess before they eat their lunch. Recess is held on the playground or blacktop area behind the school. Students are required to stay in the designated recess area and follow all school policies. All students are required to participate in the recess time. Please make sure they are dressed appropriately for the weather. Students will go outside for recess when the temperature is above 19 degrees.
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In the event of rain or temperatures below 20 degrees, recess will be held in the student’s classroom or other designated area.
DISMISSAL
At no time will the Academy permit a student to be dismissed without a parent/guardian. Students are not permitted to walk home or leave with a friend without prior written parent/guardian permission and approval in the main office. Repeated offenses will be turned over to the principal and school social worker for review and follow-up.
Students in grades Pre K-6 are dismissed from designated pick up areas and from the classroom at 3:45pm. Parents are required to follow the parking lot instructions for dismissal. All students not picked up by 4:00pm will be sent to Latch Key. The Parent/Guardian will pick their child up from Latchkey and will be expected to pay the per day fee for services rendered.
INDIVIDUAL STUDENT DISMISSAL
Students will be dismissed from their classroom to a parent/guardian or emergency contact until they reach the age of 18. Students will not be dismissed to any other adult or peer unless prior written arrangements are made with the Academy office. This procedure will guarantee the safety and well-being of all students. The Parent/Guardian is required to go to the office to pick up their child from the Academy at times other than normal arrival and dismissal. The Parent/Guardian is to report to the school office where they will be required to sign the student(s) out of the Academy. After approval from the main office, the student’s educator will send the student to meet the parent at the main office. Parents should not go to the classroom to pick up the student. This causes disruption to the learning environment.
LATCHKEY PROGRAM
The school provides before and after school care in a safe, nurturing environment for Tipton students. Students must register and pay a registration fee to be eligible for the program. Services are provided from 6:45 am – 7:30 am and 3:45 pm – 6:00 pm.
TELEPHONE
A telephone is available in the school office for EMERGENCY phone use by students. During the school day, permission to use the telephone must come from the office personnel. It is also school policy for students to work out any concerns with staff when adult intervention is needed, not with parents by phone.
Cellular phones are not permitted in the classroom. If a student is found using or distracting with a cellular phone, it will be confiscated and a parent must come in to obtain the phone. Refusal to turn in a cell phone will result in further disciplinary action. Please see policy for prohibited electronic devices for additional procedure of handling student in possession of cell phone.
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THE ACADEMY VISITORS
Adult visitors are always welcome. However, we are interested in knowing who is in the building and require all visitors to register in the office and wear a visitor’s badge. Students or parents from other schools or Academies wishing to visit must make prior arrangements with the principal and a fifteen-minute observation will be scheduled with an educator. Any visitors that will be spending more than four hours in a week at the Academy will be required to meet all criminal/background screening at the cost of the visitor. This is to ensure the safety of all Tipton students and staff.
VOLUNTEER POLICY
The Romine Group (TRG), as the Educational Service Provider, recognizes that certain programs and activities can be enhanced through the use of volunteers who have particular knowledge or skills that will be helpful to members of the professional staff responsible for the conduct of those programs and activities. The Principal, in cooperation with the TRG, shall be responsible for recruiting volunteers, reviewing their capabilities, and making appropriate placements. S/He shall not be obligated to make use of volunteers whose abilities are not in accord with school needs. The Administration shall conduct appropriate background checks on all volunteers in the same manner as required for other professional staff.
The Administration is to inform each volunteer that s/he:
Shall agree to abide by all Board policies and school guidelines while on duty as a volunteer including signing, if appropriate, the School’s Network and Internet Access Agreement Forms;
Will be covered under the School’s liability policy but the School cannot provide any type of health insurance to cover illness or accident incurred while serving as a volunteer, nor is the person eligible for workers compensation;
Will be asked to sign a form releasing the School of any obligation should the volunteer become ill or receive an injury as a result of his/her volunteer services.
To attend the appropriate training for the assigned tasks prior to his/her volunteer services at the school.
The Administration shall also ensure that each volunteer is properly informed of the School’s appreciation for his/her time efforts in assisting the operation of the School.
Will be required to submit a background check in order to volunteer.
THE ACADEMY EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
In the event of the Academy closing due to weather or other emergencies, please check Channel 7/ABC, Channel 4/WDIV, and Channel 2/FOX News. In the event of a school
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emergency, you will be contacted by Academy personnel so it is important that you keep your information updated at the front office.
TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLIES
Students are responsible for the proper care of all books and supplies issued each year through the Academy. Students who lose books or damage the Academy property will be assessed a replacement fee or repair cost to offset the replacement or repair cost. All costs are to be paid prior to receiving all report cards or the transfer of student records.
HOMEWORK
Homework is a very necessary and integral part of a child’s education. The purpose of homework is to reinforce those skills and concepts taught in the learning environment. Homework also includes work not finished during class time. Parental support and cooperation are very important in this area. Helping students with their homework shows you are interested in their education. Each educator is responsible for the classroom homework policy. This is to ensure age-appropriate requirements.
Please note that homework can come in many forms and while the Academy recognizes that age appropriate learning also consists of social and family activities at home, we request your support and cooperation while we try to find the best ways to reinforce learning at home. Please direct all homework questions to your student’s educator.
REQUEST FOR HOMEWORK
A request for homework for a child that is ill should be made in the morning. This will allow time for the educator to organize the materials. Homework may be picked up in the office at the end of the day. Our educators will make every effort to have homework ready to be picked up in the office at the end of the day. The student has as many days as he/she was absent to make up the work.
Please remember that much of the learning at Tipton Academy is done in a hands-on and experiential way and many times cannot be sent home to be completed. That is the reason it is vital that all students are at school as much as possible.
COMMUNICATION
Parents can now access up to date information on their student’s progress via the web. Just visit powerschool.therominegroup.com/admin, enter in your ID and password, and you will have access to grades and attendance, information on individual assignments, sign up for email notification, and view teacher comments. This is a great way to stay on top of what is happening with your student! Check the school website, www.http://tipton-academy.org for updated information on the Academy and student activities.
STUDENT RECORD “RIGHTS”
The Federal “Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974” provides parents or
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guardians of students under the age of 18 the right to examine official records, files, and data relating to the student. If you wish to review your child’s record, please contact the office.
STUDENT RECORDS
The Board of Directors for Tipton Academy believes that all student records shall be treated as confidential and exist primarily for local Academy use or as otherwise stipulated. To request a review of your students records a parent/guardian must contact the main office to schedule an appointment. To request a hardcopy of your student’s records, a parent/guardian must submit the request in writing to the main office. The Office Manager will then contact the parent/guardian to notify of when the request can be reasonably fulfilled, not to exceed 15 days.
In situations where the parents of a student are divorced or separated, each parent custodial and/or non-custodial has equal rights to their child’s records unless a court order specifies otherwise. The Academy’s personnel shall not recognize private agreements between the student’s parents.
Parents shall have an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of their child’s school records to ensure that the records are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of students; to provide an opportunity for the correction or deletion of any such inaccurate, misleading or otherwise inappropriate data contained therein; and to insert into such records the parent’s written explanation of the content of such records.
Any eligible parent/guardian or student may inspect the records of the student during regular Academy office hours with a scheduled appointment. The district reserves the right to interpret selected records to students and/or parent/guardians at the time of the inspection. If circumstances prevent a parent/guardian from exercising their right to come to the Academy to review a student’s education records, the Academy will provide a copy of the requested records to the requesting party following the procedure above.
The Academy will not destroy any educational records if there is an outstanding request to inspect and review a student’s records. Whenever a student attains 18 years of age, the consent required of and the rights accorded to the parents of the student shall thereafter only be accorded to the student. Parents/guardians are responsible for updating the Academy when the emergency phone number and address information has been changed.
MOVING?
Please notify the Academy office before transferring to another school. A copy of the Immunization’s form will be given to you to present to the new school.
We want to know: New address and phone number Date of the move Name of the new school Students are expected to: o Return all library and textbooks
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o Settle all outstanding debts o Collect all personal items
In the event that the above is not returned, the student’s records will not be transferred and the last report card will not be mailed to the parent/guardian.
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SCHOOL-WIDE POLICIES
CELLULAR PHONES, MP3 Players, IPODs, IPADS and Other ELECTRONIC DEVICES
The telephones are for the Academy business and emergencies only. Students will be permitted to use the telephones for emergency purposes only. Students should take care of information business with parents prior to coming to school.
At no time are students permitted to bring pagers, cellular phones, video games, musical electronic listening devices or any other electronic devices into the classroom. They are to be kept turned off and in lockers. Failure to follow policy will result in disciplinary action and forfeit of device to the academy until the end of the school year. Tipton Academy will not accept responsibility for the personal items of students lost, stolen, or confiscated. First offense - the item will be taken and returned to student after a meeting with administration. Second offense - the item will be returned to parent or guardian Third offense - the item will be returned at the end of the year. Refusing to surrender a cell phone will result in further disciplinary action.
STUDENT CAMERAS
For the safety and well-being of all of our students, student cameras are not permitted at school. We recognize the importance of school day memories and will designate specific dates and events which cameras will be permitted for. This will require teacher supervision of the photographs being taken as well as administrative approval. Please understand that we want to ensure the safety and well being of every student at Tipton Academy and circumstances, such as the Internet and other predators are at large, and we want to protect and ensure you are aware of exposure of your child. Students in possession of cameras that are not approved by administration will be confiscated and if necessary pictures deleted prior to release of camera to parent/guardian.
INTERNET USE POLICY
Tipton Academy adheres to the federal requirements and guidelines stipulated under Title XVII— Children's Internet Protection Act.
A. Educational Purpose
Tipton Academy Internet system has a limited educational purpose. Activities that are acceptable include: classroom activities, career development, and high-quality personal research. Tipton Academy has the right to place reasonable restrictions on material you access or post through the system. You are expected to follow the rules set forth in the Tipton Academy disciplinary code and the law in your use of the network. Students who use computers for personal (non-academic) purposes during the school day will be prohibited from bringing their laptop to school or using an Academy computer during the school day.
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B. Internet Management
Embracing the Internet is a critical and essential component in today's world if our students are to become functional members of society. The benefits attained by the advancement of technology bring with it associated costs and a wide range of risks, in particular, the exposure of students to inappropriate material and people. As part of our commitment to Internet security, we offer a firewall (a web-blocker application program). This has the ability to block objectionable material and captures the window when questionable material is accessed.
C. Unacceptable Uses
The following uses are considered unacceptable:
1. Personal Safety and Personal Privacy Students will not post personal contact information. This includes student’s address, school address, telephone number, and name on the Internet. This includes other people as well as the student. Students will promptly disclose to the teacher any message or website that is inappropriate or makes students feel uncomfortable.
Students will not post any information or disrespectful or administratively deemed harmful comments regarding other students, Tipton staff members or the school in general.
2. Illegal Activities Students will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to the Tipton Academy Network or to any other system through the network beyond authorized access. Students will not attempt to deliberately disrupt the computer system or destroy data by spreading computer viruses or by any other means. Students will not use the network to engage in any other illegal act, such as arranging for illegal activities or threatening the safety of other people.
3. System Security No software is to be downloaded on the computers at any time without explicit consent of the system administrator.
4. Inappropriate Language Restrictions against inappropriate language apply to public messages, private messages, and material posted on Web pages. Students will not use obscene, profane, vulgar, rude, threatening or disrespectful language. Students will not post information that could cause damage or a danger of disruption. Students will not engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks. Students will not harass another person. Students will not knowingly post false or defamatory information about another person or organization.
5. Respecting Resources Using the computer systems and Internet is a privilege. Students need to respect the computer by using it appropriately.
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6. Plagiarism Students will not plagiarize works that they find on the Internet or any other print source. Plagiarism is taking the ideas or writings of others and presenting them as if they were your own.
7. Copyright Students will respect the rights of copyright owners. Copyright infringement occurs when you inappropriately reproduce a work that is protected by a copyright. If a work contains language that specifies appropriate use of that work, students should follow the expressed requirements. If students are unsure or have questions, they should ask a teacher.
8. Inappropriate Access to Material Students will not access material that is designated for adult use only or is profane or obscene, that advocates illegal or dangerous acts, or discrimination towards other people. If students mistakenly access inappropriate information, they should immediately tell the teacher. This will protect students against a claim that they have intentionally violated the rules.
D. Disciplinary Actions Students should only expect limited privacy in the contents of personal files or records of Web research. Routine maintenance and monitoring of the network may lead to discovery that you have violated the Policy, the school disciplinary code or the law. An individual search will be conducted if there is reasonable suspicion that you have violated this Policy, the Tipton Academy disciplinary code or the law. Tipton Academy will cooperate fully with local, state, or federal officials in any investigation related to any illegal activities conducted through the school.
E. Limitation of Liability Tipton Academy makes no guarantee that the functions or the services provided by or through the school Network system will be error free or without defect. Tipton will not be responsible for any damage that may be suffered, including but not limited to, loss of data or interruptions of service. The school is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of the information obtained through or stored on the system. The school will not be responsible for financial obligations arising through the unauthorized use of the system. Parents or guardians will be responsible for any harm to the system as a result of intentional misuse.
LOST AND FOUND
Found articles of clothing or miscellaneous articles will be placed in the lost and found area (see front office for location). Each Friday, all the lost and found items will be removed and donated to a local charity organization. To help alleviate the problem of lost articles, PLEASE PUT YOUR CHILD’S NAME ON ALL CLOTHING.
STUDENT SOLICITATION Students may solicit only for the Academy-sponsored activities. All the Academy activities at the elementary level discourage door-to-door solicitation in the community. There will be no exchange of money among students for any purpose unless authorized by the office.
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ACADEMY CELEBRATIONS
All celebrations are at the discretion of each educator and the Academy administration. If you choose to have your child not participate in an activity, please speak with your child’s educator. If the activity is due to religious or other beliefs, an opt-out activity will be provided for your student.
At Tipton Academy we try to recognize celebrations and traditions of many different cultures. Understanding cultural diversity is an integral part of society. If you have other suggestions for educators or the school in regards to celebrations and traditions of different cultures, please let us know and we will be happy to consider the additions. Parents may bring in store purchased treats for special events. Please check with your child’s teacher.
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ATTENDANCE POLICIES
ATTENDANCE POLICIES & PROCEDURES All students are expected to attend the Academy for the entire academic year. Parents are strongly discouraged from taking their students out of the Academy for family vacations.
I. ATTENDANCE 1. Parents are asked to call the Academy before 7:45 am when their child is going to be absent. This does not constitute an excused absence. 2. Whenever students are absent from the Academy, notes or medical excuses are required explaining the absence. The note should also have day, time, and phone number where the parent can be reached. 3. Parents may arrange, in advance, for absences. Prearranged absences are not automatically excused (guidelines apply for excused/unexcused absences). 4. Medical and funeral excuses only are exempt from the attendance count. 5. Students absent from school the day of a scheduled after-school or evening sponsored activity or event will NOT be allowed to participate in that activity/event.
II. FAMILY VACATIONS 1. We would like to encourage you to schedule family vacations at times other than when the Academy is in session. When you must schedule a family trip during Academy time, contact the educator in advance concerning how your child will complete missed assignments. 2. Time given for the completion of makeup work will be one (1) day for every day absent.
III. ATTENDANCE PROCESS /TRUANCY 1. A letter from the administration will be sent to the student’s parent/guardian on the fifth absence per semester or the 30th of each month. 2. A mandatory conference will be held between administration and the student’s parent/guardian upon the eighth absence per semester. 3. If the student reaches eleven absences per semester, they may be retained in the current grade level due to lack of formal instruction. The student maybe referred to the Wayne County truancy officer.
IV. THE PROCEDURES FOR APPEALS 1. Students, who exceed the number of absences with justifiable cause, may petition the appeals board for a hearing. The appeals process is only presenting proof of justifiable absences. It is not intended for any other use. 2. Students who wish to use the appeals process must present a completed form to the Principal’s office clearly giving reasons for their absences. Excuses such as getting up late, car problems, or missing a ride will not be accepted. 3. Each case will be heard and judged on its individual merits. 4. It is the parent’s responsibility to provide the necessary materials on his/her behalf. 5. The appeals board will be comprised of two (2) educators and one Administrator. 6. The decision of the board will be final.
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V. TARDY/LATE ARRIVAL/EARLY DISMISSAL 1. Classes begin at 8:00 a.m. Students can be dropped off as early as 7:45 a.m. Students arriving in the learning environment after 8:05 a.m. will be considered tardy. Due to state guidelines, all attendance must be documented and reported to Wayne County RESA including late arrivals. 2. A letter from administration will be sent to the student’s parent/guardian on the fifth tardy per semester or the 30th of each month. 3. A mandatory conference will be held between administration and the student’s parent/guardian upon the eighth tardy per semester. 4. If the student reaches eleven tardies per semester, they may be retained in the current grade level due to lack of formal instruction. The student maybe referred to the Wayne RESA truancy officer.
PROCEDURE FOR LATE ARRIVAL
1. Upon arrival, student must report to the office, and be signed in by parent/ guardian to obtain a pass to enter class. PLEASE DO NOT JUST DROP YOUR STUDENT OFF. 2. A student will be considered absent for the morning if he/she arrives after 9:30 a.m. and for the afternoon if he/she leaves before 2:15 p.m. 3. All documentation will be maintained in the student record.
ATTENDANCE AND CREDITS EARNED
A student who has MISSED 11 DAYS OF CLASS within a given semester MAY BE RETAINED IN THEIR CURRENT GRADE. *The Principal will issue the final decision on retention at the end of the school year.
ATTENDANCE FOR RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION
Tipton Academy will cooperate with parents who wish to provide religious instruction for their child but also recognizes its responsibility to enforce the attendance requirements of the State. Upon the signed request by the student’s parent, the Board will allow exceptions to the student’s continuous attendance at school: 1. for religious instruction outside the school building for no more than two (2) class hours per week. 2. for attendance at confirmation classes provided student is twelve (12) or thirteen (13) years of age and the instructional period is no longer than five (5) months in either of those years.
The student must be properly registered and a copy of such registration must be filed with the principal, which will be maintained in the student file. The time release for religious instruction or education shall be arranged by the Principal to comply with the regulations of the State Board of Education. The student will also assure the appropriate continuance of the instructional program at Tipton during such release times. No solicitation for attendance at religious instruction shall be permitted on school premises. No member of the staff shall encourage nor discourage participation in any religious instruction program.
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DRESS
DRESS CODE OVERVIEW
Take pride in how you look at all times. Uniforms can help keep you safe and prevent you from being judged by others for not looking a certain way. They also create a serious, distinguished look that tells the world “YOU” are about business. Always be mindful of your personal appearance – it speaks volumes about your character.
DRESS CODE
Our basic standards regarding student dress are based on cleanliness, neatness, modesty, safety and minimizing learning distraction. Uniforms are to be worn at the Academy by all students in grades K-6 except on announced “Dress Down” days.
Friday each week is “Tipton Dress Down Day.” Students may wear appropriate casual clothes to school on that day. Clothing should not contain inappropriate graphics, such as skulls or weapons. Clothing may not contain inappropriate language or suggestive messages. Casual clothes must be in good taste and appropriate in length.
Tipton shirts are shirts that have our school name or logo printing on it. This also includes Tipton sweatshirts, T-shirts, or uniform shirts. Tennis shoes may be worn at any time. Participation in Dress Down Day is a privilege that can be revoked to any student by school administration for any length of time deemed necessary.
Dress code policy will be enforced for all students: K - 6th Grade: Any uniform violation will cause student to move to next step (i.e. no uniform shirt causes step 1 and an additional dress code violation will cause to move to 2). Step 1: Dress code violation form will be sent home for a parent to sign, Step 2: Dress code violation form will be sent home from administration to be signed by parent. Step 3: Student will serve lunch detention. Step 4: In-House Suspension. Step 5: Out of School Suspension.
DRESS CODE – Grades K-6
The Tipton Academy dress code must be strictly followed. Uniform checks will be performed. If students come to school wearing inappropriate attire, their classroom teacher will send them to the office. Parents may be contacted and will be responsible for bringing proper clothing that same day.
Permitted attire: 1. School shirts will be polo style shirts (long or short sleeve) in solid colors with the Tipton Academy logo. Plain polo shirts or turtlenecks in the approved colors are allowed under
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PLAIN sweaters, and crew neck sweatshirts ONLY. Shirts may not be worn knotted at the back or at the side. 2. Plain sweaters and sweatshirts may be worn over the polo shirt and must be in the approved colors only. Hoodies or hooded zip sweatshirts must have the Tipton logo. 3. Dress slacks will be navy blue, black or khaki and worn at the waist. Knee length dress shorts or Capri in navy or black are permitted until October 15th and after April 15th. Exceptions may be made in the event of unseasonably warm weather. 4. Girls may wear dress slacks, knee-length shorts, skorts, skirts or jumpers in navy blue or black. 5. Socks or tights must be worn at all times. 6. Students may wear regular dress shoes or gym shoes that are not distracting. No open-toed or open-back shoes, clogs, sandals, flip-flops, or platform soles/heels. No boots for indoors wear. NO HEELIES!! 7. Jewelry may be worn providing it is not distracting and does not present a safety hazard. Attire that is NOT permitted (K-6) and may cause a distraction to the learning environment as deemed by the school administrator: 1. Pants made of nylon, leather, sweat pant material, mesh, denim, or cotton knit. No YOGA pants or jeans of any type or color. No sagging pants. 2. Any body piercing or tattoos. 3. Sculptured/carved hairstyle (letters, signs, etc.), Extensions, Mohawks and any unnatural hair color (green, purple, etc.). 4. Hats or visors inside the building. No bandanas or other scarf on the head. 5. Any decoration on clothing other than the approved Tipton Academy logo. 6. Ripped or torn clothing. 7. Hooded shirts of any kind. 8. Any shirt worn wrapped around the waist. 9. Jackets/outerwear may not be worn in class. 10. Any clothing that exposes a part of the body between the neck and knees. Students who are in violation of the dress code because of sloppiness or “stretching” the rules will be corrected and a detention will be issued. This includes sagging pants. If there are extenuating circumstances, such as a foot injury that may require your child to wear special shoes, please call the school office and let us know. Of course, we make exceptions in these cases.
** All clothing, jewelry, and hair choices should be non-distracting. Tipton Academy reserves the right to determine what is appropriate for the school environment.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION Students with Special Needs
SPECIAL SERVICES
The services of a speech and language therapist, psychologist, social worker, and Special Education Educator, and Occupational therapist are available on a referral basis. If you would like more information, please contact your child’s educator. The following special services are available to all students who qualify under state guidelines.
Occupational Therapist: Provides services to students who need fine motor therapy. School Psychologist: Provides services to students who need evaluation for special education needs. School Social Worker: Provides services to students who are experiencing personal or social adjustment problems in the Academy or at home. Speech Therapist: Works with students who are impaired by speech and language difficulties. Special Education Teacher: Services are provided for students with special needs in a resource room or on a consultant basis. Vision and Hearing: The Wayne County Health Department provides tests annually for designated grade levels.
SPECIAL EDUCATION POLICY
The Board of Directors of Tipton Academy wants each child to fulfill their ultimate learning potential. To the extent that an educator or parent feels that child may demonstrate some learning disabilities, the following board policy to evaluate a child’s academic progress shall be followed: After either a parent or educator expressed a concern about a child’s school performance, Response To Intervention (RTI) plan will begin in which an educator is making documented attempts to develop strategies that increase success of student. If the RTI process is not successful after all options have been exhausted, a child study meeting will be held to determine if formal testing is needed. The student’s educator, special education educator, learning specialist, school social worker or counselor and principal will attend the child study meeting. If it is determined that formal testing is needed, within ten days parents must be notified and request made for their written authorization for testing. Once the parents provides consent for formal testing of their child, the Academy has thirty days to complete the evaluation process and hold an Individualized Education Program Team (IEPT) meeting in which determines if special educational services are needed. For a child to qualify for special education services there must be proof that the child’s academic progress is impacted by a discrepancy in achievement or other tested data.
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After a decision is made on the student’s eligibility for special education services, the IEPT meeting is held with general education educator, special education educator, principal and parent in attendance. It will be determined at the IEPT meeting how many hours per week and what services the child will receive special education services. Once a child is in special education, the child’s IEP goals will be reassessed annually. Every three years the child must be reevaluated to determine continued eligibility, unless waived by the parent/guardian, for special education services. It is the ultimate goal for each child eligible for special education services that the achievement gap will be closed and that the special education intervention strategies have worked to no longer require services.
SECTION 504
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is designed to prohibit discrimination based on disability in any program or activity receiving federal money. This statute obligates public schools to provide equal access and equal opportunity to otherwise qualified persons with disabilities. For a student to be eligible for a 504 plan, the student must meet all three of the following criteria (a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities). It must be because of this disability that the student is unable to gain equal access and benefit from school programs and services. The publication, A Parent Guide to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, is a resource available to parents through their school.
If you believe that a student may be eligible for Section 504 support, please contact the school Principal for additional information.
HOMELESS STUDENTS: MCKINNEY VENTO ACT
Educational Rights of Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness: If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness please notify the school so we can help. This is not something to be ashamed of and there are many resources to assist families in this situation. Tipton Academy is committed to keeping all information strictly confidential.
Children and youth experiencing homelessness have the right to: Go to school, no matter where they live or how long they have lived there. Students who are homeless must be given access to the same public education provided to other students. Continue in the school they attended before becoming homeless or the school last attended, if that is their choice and feasible. The school district’s local liaison for homeless education must assist you, if needed, and offer you the right to appeal a decision regarding your choice of school if it goes against your wishes. Receive transportation to the school they attended before they became homeless or the school last attended, if a request is made for such transportation and transportation is feasible. Attend a school and participate in school programs with students who are not homeless. Students cannot be separated from the regular school program due to the fact that they are homeless.
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Enroll in school without providing a permanent address. Schools cannot require proof of residency that might prevent or delay school enrollment. Enroll and attend classes in the school of their choice even while the school and student who is homeless seek to resolve a dispute over enrollment. Receive the same special programs and services, if needed, as provided to all other students served in these programs. Receive transportation to school and to school programs.
These rights are established under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This act is the primary piece of federal legislation dealing with the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness in U.S. public schools. It was reauthorized as Title X, Part C, of the No Child Left Behind Act in January 2002. To qualify for these rights, children and youth must be considered homeless according to the McKinney-Vento definition of homelessness.
How does the McKinney-Vento Act define homelessness? According to U.S. Department of Education (USDE) guidance, people living in the following situations are considered homeless under McKinney-Vento: doubled-up with family or friends due to economic hardship; in motels or hotels due to lack of other suitable housing; in homes for unwed or expectant mothers because they have nowhere else to go; in homeless and/or domestic violence shelters; in transitional housing programs; on the streets; in abandoned buildings; in public places not meant for housing; in cars, trailers, and campgrounds; or awaiting foster care. Runaway and/or "throwaway" children and youth are also considered homeless under McKinney-Vento.
The description above refers to people living "doubled-up". What does that mean? "Doubled-up" refers to people who are living with friends and relatives due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason. However, families who have chosen to move into adequate housing situations with friends or relatives for reasons of cultural preference or convenience are not covered by McKinney-Vento.
Are migrant students considered homeless under McKinney-Vento? Migrant students are considered homeless if they meet one or more of the definitions of homelessness under McKinney-Vento. However, migrant students should not be considered homeless simply because they are migrant.
Are children in foster care considered homeless? No. The McKinney-Vento definition of homelessness includes children who are awaiting foster care placement only. Once children have been placed in foster care, they are no longer considered homeless.
If you would like additional information on the rights of homeless students or you would like to notify us of a situation involving a homeless student, please contact the school Principal.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
BOOK BAG/LOCKER CHECK
Random book bag and locker checks are to help prevent any illegal substances or weapons from being housed in the student possession. It is the responsibility of the school administration to check bags and lockers. The school administrator may be assisted by the police and canine unit from time to time when conducting locker or personal bag checks. Tipton Academy is not responsible for items that are stolen out of book bags or lockers. Students should never bring valuable expensive coats, jackets, jewelry, shoes, supplies etc. to school. Students are not allowed to share a book bag or house another student’s belongings in their bag.
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
State Law and the Wayne County Immunization Code require all students entering the Academy to provide evidence of having received the required immunizations for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Peruses, Polio, Measles, Rubella, and Mumps, HIB shot, Hepatitis B, and Chicken Pox or a signed statement that a child has not been immunized because of religious or other reasons. State Law and Wayne County Immunization Code prohibit the Academy from admitting children without the required immunizations.
INJURIES AND ILLNESS
Children should report all illnesses and injuries occurring in the Academy to their educator or supervisory personnel. Only immediate and temporary care will be given in the Academy. Parents will be notified by phone when a child needs additional care. If injury or illness is of an urgent nature, the local emergency services will be contacted. The school office will also notify the child’s parent/guardian. It is important to notify the school office of any changes to emergency information throughout the school year.
MEDICAL EXCUSES
A student may be excused from physical education and recess for one day with a note from parent/guardian. Extended excuses will be honored upon receipt of a physician’s note. In the event of an extended excuse a physician’s note may be required to return to physical education, recess, and after school activities.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Any student evidencing a rash, sores, or other physical problems with possibility of being contagious, the student will be sent to the office to be sent home. When a child is absent with a contagious disease or illness, the parent/guardian should notify the Academy office. In order for your child to be admitted back into the Academy, parents must comply with the
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Wayne County Health guidelines. Please contact the Academy office for further information.
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION
In accordance with Tipton Academy’s policy, no medication is to be in the student’s possession at any time. Should children be required to take medication during the school hours, a form must be filled out by the physician indicating the name of the drug, the dosage and time to be taken and any other instructions that are necessary. The medication must be brought from the home by the parent/guardian or other responsible adult. The medication container must have the dispensing instructions noted on it. At school, the medication will be kept under lock and key and only the office staff will administer the medication. A record is kept of the medication that is administered to each child. A log will be kept indicating when each dose is administered to each child and signed by administrating staff and when possible a witness.
NOTE: Students are not to self-medicate while at school nor are they to possess medications to offer opportunity for other students to ingest and possibly overdose.
ILLNESS AND ACCIDENTS
If a child must go home because of an injury or illness, it is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to pick up the child at school. When a situation appears to be life threatening, the staff will act on the side of caution and will call an ambulance. The cost of the ambulance is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. The situation becomes challenging if parents cannot be reached in the case of an emergency therefore, the emergency phone number becomes crucial since it is the first number the office attempts to contact.
POLICY FOR REPORTING SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE
In a perfect world, all children are loved, well cared for, safe, and treated with respect. Because our world isn’t perfect, this is not true for some children. As educators and other Academy staff members, we not only have the privilege of teaching, learning from and getting to know our students, but we must take on the responsibility of listening to and helping them when they need us to. When there is reasonable cause to suspect child neglect or abuse the following policy will be followed.
MAKE AN ORAL REPORT In accordance with the law, any Tipton Academy employee who suspects child abuse or neglect will report it to Child Protective Services immediately. Suspicion can be based on many factors such as observations, bruises or marks, student report, and so on. The abuse does not have to be confirmed. After an internal investigation, the Wayne County Department of Social Services will determine the correct course of action. The Department caseworkers will interview the student as soon as possible. Any Academy employee having knowledge of the incidents or concerns about the child on question should be prepared to share any such information with the child protection services caseworker or with any law enforcement personnel.
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FIELD TRIPS
The purpose of a field trip is to give students a better understanding of their culture and acquaint them with real life experiences. Students are expected to follow all the Academy rules and policies and pay for any cost incurred. For those who cannot afford such trips, some funding and/or fundraising options may be available. Please notify the office in such cases. If a Field Trip Permission Form is not submitted by a parent/guardian in the proper time frame, if the student is not in proper uniform, or a student has had behavior which may jeopardize the safety of self, others, or the school, the child may not attend the trip. Students not attending will still be expected to attend school and will be provided parallel learning activities.
Student safety is the main priority on field trips. Sponsoring and chaperoning adults are expected to adhere to Academy policies and procedures on the field trip as well as sign a chaperone agreement provided by the classroom teacher specifying specific expected chaperone behavior. Sponsors and chaperones should acquaint themselves in advance with those students who have medical conditions, which may need emergency care. The classroom teacher must accompany the group and adequate male/female supervision should be provided.
Responsibilities of Parents Chaperoning Field Trips: Parents play an important role in making a field trip successful. Field trips are planned to supplement the content through a “hands-on” experience. In preparing for a field trip, the following points need to be understood by parent chaperones.
1. The classroom teacher is the final authority for all field trip preparations including: volunteers, schedules, student discipline, and learning objectives. 2. Chaperones are required to remain with their assigned group for the duration of the field trip. Chaperones are never to leave any student in their care unsupervised. 3. Situations involving student discipline should be reported immediately to the classroom teacher. Chaperones should rely on positive reinforcement redirection until the classroom teacher can be contacted. Chaperones should never touch a student in a physically aggressive way or speak to them disrespectfully. 4. Chaperones may not participate in smoking of tobacco products or consumption of alcoholic beverages during the entire duration of the field trip. If this cannot be adhered to then please do not volunteer. We will not tolerate this type of participation. 5. Since the field trip is viewed as an extension of the regular classroom, all Tipton Academy discipline codes apply. 6. Parents who offer to supervise on a school field trip must understand that their full attention is needed to ensure the students’ safety. Therefore, siblings are not permitted on school field trips. 7. We also only permit a certain number of chaperones and do not permit additional parents and family members to meet us at fieldtrip locations. A group that is too large makes it difficult for us to ensure safety and appropriate learning experiences for our students.
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ATHLETICS AND AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS
Athletics and other school clubs formed by staff members will be posted and available to all students to register. Some criteria may be required such as, specific age, prior game knowledge, etc. Some fees may apply. See bulletin boards in the hallway for more details on Tipton’s athletic program and after school clubs.
TUTORING
Tutoring and offering academic support after regular school hours is very important to Tipton Academy. Tipton staff will continue to offer tutoring support to all grade levels during scheduled times. Parent permission is required for students to participate in this activity.
SOCIAL EVENTS
The Board of Directors recognizes the value of student social events in enhancing and enriching the educational experience for the children at Tipton. The Board of Directors along with the administrative staff will make school facilities available and provide appropriate staff to conduct the student social event after approval by the principal. School social events, which take place outside school facilities, must be approved by administration.
As voluntary participants in school social events, students are held responsible for compliance with the rules set forth for their conduct, and infractions of those rules will be subject to the same disciplinary measures applicable during the regular school day. Students absent from school the day of a scheduled after-school or evening sponsored activity/event will NOT be allowed to participate in that activity/event.
Participation at school events is not a right; it is a privilege and as such will be denied to any student who has demonstrated disregard for the rules of the school, including students on suspension and academic probation.
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GRADING POLICIES
GRADING Kindergarten through Second grade will utilize the following scale: M - Mastery (shows strong mastery of concepts) D - Developing (shows some understanding of concepts) N - Needs Improvement (shows little to no understanding of concepts)
Third through sixth grade will utilize the school Academic Key: A 93-100 A- 92-90 B+ 89-87 B 86-83 B- 82-80 C+ 79-77 C 76-73 C- 72-70 D+ 69-67 D 66-63 D- 62-60 E 59 and below
HONOR AWARDS
At the end of each marking period, special recognition is given to those students who have achieved excellence in their academic progress as well as social development. Students are given awards based on their individual accomplishments during the previous tri-semester.
Honor Roll: Letter grades of all A’s and B’s (3rd -8th grades)
At the end of the year special recognition is given to those who have attained the following:
Honor Roll: Been on honor roll all four marking periods Attendance: Have had perfect attendance Spirit: Are recognized by a staff member for demonstrating outstanding citizenship during the year.
BEHAVIORAL PROBATION
A student may be placed on behavioral probation if they are consistently and repeatedly sent to the office. A student may also be placed on behavior probation because of involvement in serious incidents at school including but not limited to fighting, insubordination, bullying, etc. Students on behavioral probation may not attend social field trips or others where safety and the reputation of the school is a concern, participate in after school activities, or receive other student privileges until their behavior corrects consistently and proves otherwise.
REPORT CARDS – CONFERENCES
Academic reports for students in grades K-8 are distributed in November, March and June.
Parent-Educator Conferences are scheduled in November of each school year. The
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Parent/guardian is required to attend the conference to receive their child’s report card. In the event the parent is unable to attend the conference, one will be rescheduled.
It is understood that educators shall, if necessary, arrange additional periodic conferences with students and their parents. Conferences with educators must be scheduled during noninstructional time.
APPOINTMENTS WITH EDUCATORS
If you would like an appointment to meet with your child’s educator, you may make an appointment by note or call the Academy and leave a message. Phone calls to educators during school hours are reserved for emergencies only. Meetings with educators are best when an appointment is made in advance.
RETENTION
The Academy recognizes that the personal, social, physical, and educational growth of children will vary and that they should be placed in the educational setting most appropriate to their needs at the various stages of their growth. It is the policy of the Board of Directors that each student is moved forward in a continuous pattern of achievement and growth that is in harmony with his/her own development.
A student will be promoted to the succeeding grade level when he/she has received a C average (for third through fifth grades) and average of P’s (for kindergarten through second grades). The student must also have demonstrated the degree of social, emotional, and physical maturation necessary for a successful learning experience in the next grade. The student must also have attended school with no more than of 20 absences. Students who are failing (below C average or below 3 averages) may not be promoted to the next grade and will receive additional assistance the following school year. Written notification of concern will be provided to the parent/guardian. A retention meeting will be held with the student’s educator, parent, administrative representative and any other staff members that have worked with the student throughout the school year. At the retention meeting, the reasons for not promoting the student will be given to the parent as well as a plan for the following school year to academically develop the student.
In addition, the following factors are considered when making a decision for retention by the student’s educator, parents, principal, Title 1 Coordinator, school social worker and other involved staff in the student’s academic and social livelihood:
Student performance based on report cards, portfolio, academic records, assessments Discipline record Attendance record Maturity and social level Age of the student Reading level
The school principal, however, reserves the right to retain a student in the same grade when in his/her judgment, despite the objection of a parent, and in combination of the above-listed
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factors strongly suggests that a student needs to have another year of growth in order to be successful at the next grade level.
STANDARDIZED TESTS
The Academy gives the following standardized tests every year. Parents can receive results and are encouraged to review the findings. Call for an appointment. Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP): Administered to grades 3-9. Performance Series (Scantron) assessment will be administered to each student in grades 2-8. The assessments will measure their academic growth throughout the Academy year. MLPP assessments for Language Arts will be ongoing throughout the school year. They begin with Kindergarten and continue testing until they have successful passed all testing components.
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DISCIPLINE OVERVIEW
School discipline has two main goals: (1) ensure the safety of staff and students, and (2) create an environment conducive to learning. These problems negatively affect the learning environment. Disruptions interrupt lessons for all students, and disruptive students lose even more learning time. It is important to keep the ultimate goal in mind while working to improve school discipline.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Each student has the responsibility to: Respect the inherent human dignity and worth of every individual. Be informed of and adhere to all rules and regulations established by Tipton Academy and implemented by school administrators, teachers, and support staff for the welfare and safety of all students. Study diligently and strive to reach the highest possible level of academic achievement. Be punctual to school and classes. Refrain from slanderous remarks and obscenity in verbal and written expression. Dress and present oneself in a manner that meets the standards of health, cleanliness, safety, and the Tipton Academy Dress Code. Help maintain and improve Tipton Academy’s school environment, preserve school property and exercise the utmost care while using school equipment and facilities. Conduct oneself in an appropriate manner while in attendance at all school sponsored and/or related events. Continue to be, or strive to become, more actively involved in one’s education and personal growth.
DISCIPLINE & SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS
School officials may suspend a disabled student (as identified by IDEIA 2004) for up to ten (10) consecutive days without implementing procedural safeguards. However, a suspension in excess of ten (10) consecutive school days constitutes a “change in placement” for which procedural safeguards must be implemented.
Before implementing a suspension for a disabled student for more than ten (10) consecutive school days, the school district must provide due process protection given non-disabled students, and must take the following steps:
1. Notify the student’s parent or guardian in writing of proposed change in placement; and
2. Convene an MDR/IEPT to determine: a. Did the disability cause, or have a direct and substantial relationship to the act of the misconduct?
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b. Did the District’s failure to implement the IEP cause the misconduct?
3. If the answer to both questions is NO, a suspension of more than ten (10) days must be imposed. However, the school district is still responsible for providing special education services during the course of the long-term suspension and an IEPT must be convened to determine what the special education services will be.
At any stage, the parent always has the right to appeal a decision made as part of the IEPT process. In the event of an appeal, the school district must operate under the “stay put” policy allowing the student to remain in the present program. Tipton Academy will follow IDEIA 2004mandates.
ACADEMY-WIDE RULES
The Academy’s ultimate goal is to produce students that are respectful, responsible, and resourceful.
Respectful students are polite and use manners. They use appropriate language and appropriate voice levels when talking in the building and to others. They listen to and follow the direction of authority figures. They walk in the building. They keep their hands, feet, and objects to themselves. They keep a comfortable distance away from other peoples personal space. They allow the teacher to teach and minimize disruptions to the learning environment. They use safe measures and decision-making when dealing with themselves, other students, staff, parents, and the school. They utilize good communication skills when dealing with others including listening and responding appropriately to concerns.
Responsible students make decisions to follow rules appropriately. They behave in a safe way for themselves and others. They care about the cleanliness of their school environment and take pride in helping to keep it clean. They make sure they are in proper uniform when they leave for school in the morning and remain in proper uniform throughout the school day. They make sure they have all they need for the day including finished homework, signed papers, and a lunch and are prepared to learn.
When a choice or decision has the potential for negative consequences, responsible students admit wrongdoing and are accountable for their actions. Resourceful students are able to problem solve. They utilize people, places, and things to find answers to problems that they are having. They seek the appropriate help when they need it including adults that are on staff and the closest to get to. They help others when they can by getting an appropriate adult, or informing an appropriate adult if another student or person needs help. They try to use conflict resolution strategies to solve student-to- student issues appropriately and when that doesn’t work they seek help of an appropriate adult. If they are in immediate danger they use good decisions to get out of it as soon as possible and then inform the nearest appropriate adult.
Specific School Rules:
1. Be prepared to learn: Including: be on time, bring all necessary school materials (including completed
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homework), do not disrupt the learning environment, take care of other business outside of the classroom.
2. Follow the direction of the teacher or staff members in charge: Including: teacher directives include classroom and school rules, requests to sit down or in a specific seat, requests to take notes, read, or any academic tasks or behavioral tasks, etc.
3. Be respectful: Including: use your manners, clean up after yourself, be nice and cooperative to the teacher, other staff, other students, guests, and self. Use appropriate language at all times throughout the school. Talk in an appropriate tone and level when speaking with authority, students, guests, and within the building and classrooms. Keep hands, feet, and objects to self. Keep an appropriate distance from the personal space of others. Take appropriate care of the school facility, furniture, grounds, and materials.
4. Be safe: Including: walk at all times both in the school and outside, upon dismissal and at arrival. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself and do not spit or bite others. Keep an appropriate distance from others. Keep toy weapons at home – (guns, knives, handcuffs, etc. are NOT PERMITTED)
5. NOTE: Gum Chewing and Caffeinated beverages or energy drinks are not permitted. Inappropriate Public Displays of Affection between students including holding, kissing, inappropriate touching, etc., are not permitted.
CLASSROOM RULES
Each educator has the opportunity to add or enhance the Academy Rules within the confines of their classroom. This is in order to make the learning environment age appropriate to promote growth and success.
These rules help students learn how to think and act responsibility by offering a safe and orderly place to reflect, plan, discuss, and find resources to achieve success in school.
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ACADEMY’S STUDENT DISCIPLINE POLICY
Tipton Academy and Tipton Academy’s Board of Directors, endeavors to ensure that Tipton Academy is a safe place for teaching, learning and working. In order to achieve this goal we have instituted a Zero Tolerance Discipline Policy. Regardless of circumstances these policy guidelines will be followed. Tipton Academy will notify the police and take swift and appropriate disciplinary action for the following infractions:
Physical Assaults Against Academy Personnel:
Physical assault is defined as intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another through force or violence.
Any student who commits a physical assault against an Academy employee or against a person engaged as a volunteer or contractor for the Academy on Academy property, on an Academy bus or other Academy related vehicles, or at an Academy-sponsored activity or event will be suspended and may be permanently expelled for a period of not less than one hundred eighty (180) days or one full academic school year.
Physical Assaults against Students:
Physical assault is defined as intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another through force or violence.
The Academy board or designee of the Academy board shall expel any student from Tipton Academy if at Academy a student:
Possesses a dangerous weapon Commits arson Commits criminal sexual conduct.
Any student in 5th grade or above may be suspended or expelled for the following:
Physical assault against another student Physical assault against an Academy Staff or Official (expel) Verbal assault, as defined by Academy board policy, against an Academy Official or Staff member. Bomb threat or similar threat Other serious in nature offenses, which significantly jeopardize the student, other students, staff, guests, or the Academy.
Verbal Assaults:
Verbal Assault means a threat of an immediate harmful or offensive touching, coupled with apparent immediate ability to commit same, and which puts a person in a reasonable apprehension of such touching, or, the use of offensive language directed at a person, where
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such language is likely to provoke a reasonable person to physical violence, a bomb threat (or similar threat) directed at an Academy building, other Academy property, or an Academy related event.
For purposes of this policy, the definition of assault also includes written threats as well. Any student in grade 5 or above who commits a verbal assault on Academy property, on an Academy bus or other Academy related vehicle, or at an Academy sponsored activity or event against an Academy employee or against a person engaged as a volunteer or contractor for the Academy shall be suspended or expelled, depending upon circumstances, for up to one hundred eighty (180) days or one full academic school year.
Criminal Sexual Conduct:
Criminal sexual conduct means sexual penetration or touching of a person’s intimate parts. Intimate parts are defined as the breast, buttock, inner thigh, and groin or genital area. Without consent: Any sexual touching of person’s intimate parts: With or without consent Any sexual touching of a person under 10 years old
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
For the purpose of this Policy, “sexual harassment” shall mean ANY unwelcome advance of a sexual nature, requests for sexual favors, and/or verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature.
Sexual Harassment: Discriminatory harassment on the basis of sex is hereby prohibited.
Compliant Procedure: Report. A person who believes that this Policy has been violated should promptly report the alleged violation to the school administrator/principal. All alleged violations should be reported no later than sixty days from the date the person first becomes aware of the alleged incident. However, the school reserves the right to investigate and act upon reports submitted beyond the sixty day period.
School Action: The school administrator/principal and a representative from The Romine Group, shall assist in the complainant to pursue effective resolution of the complaint. This may be handled through an informal or formal process, depending on the severity of the situation. In the event that the administrator or representative from the ESP or among the persons complained of, their positions shall be filled by a member of the Board of Directors, as determined by the Board.
Informal Process: The complaint shall be handled by an informal process unless the situation complained of is deemed so severe by the investigating team or the Board of Directors as to require a formal process, or the complainant demands a formal process, or the action complained of would constitute a criminal act if proven true.
The informal process shall involve the investigating team meeting with the alleged offender and all other persons or parties as it deems appropriate, this includes meeting with the student without a parent/guardian present. The alleged offender(s) shall be informed of the complaint and the complainant has requested resolution. If the complaint is resolved to the satisfaction of all parties, no further action will be taken unless required by law or if deemed appropriate
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by the investigating team. If all parties are not satisfied with the action taken, a formal complaint can then be made by any of the parties.
Formal Complaint: A formal complaint must be signed and clearly state the nature of the alleged offense, the name of the alleged defender and the specifics (including time, date and location of the incident(s)). The formal complaint must be filed with the investigating team. If the investigating team deems that the circumstances require action, the complaint will be investigated in a timely and thorough manner to protect the rights of both the complainant and the alleged harasser(s). In the course of the investigation, the following process will be followed: a. The investigating team will attempt to convene as soon as is reasonably possible after the filing of the formal complaint. b. The investigating team will attempt to father all appropriate facts in as timely a manner as is reasonably possible. c. The investigating team will report to the board at the next regularly scheduled board meeting, or if the investigating team and the Board President deem appropriate, at a special meeting of the board. d. The board shall determine appropriate action to be taken.
Sanctions: The person(s) who is found to have violated this Policy may be subject to sanctions which may include, but need not be limited to, suspension, removal from school environments/activities/events, expulsion from the school, banishment from the campus, and/or dismissal from service at the school. Violators may also be subject to civil action or criminal prosecution.
Confidentiality: Discretion will be exercised. However, there can be no guarantee of confidentiality or anonymity since any investigation will involve discussions with other parties. Information about the complainant giving rise to the complaint will be reviewed only as investigatory and disciplinary processes require, or as otherwise required by law or courts having competent jurisdiction. Confidentiality will be observed to the extent permitted by law and to the extent consistent with protecting the welfare of the School Community and the interest of the school. However, the investigating team, the Board and/or the school administrator/principal may report the incident to appropriate authorities as they deem necessary.
CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT
Child abuse or neglect means harm or threatened harm to a child’s health or welfare by a parent, or legal guardian, or any other person responsible for the child’s health or welfare, or by an educator or educator’s abide. Suspected child abuse and or neglect must be reported to FIA. (See Tipton Academy’s Child Abuse and Neglect policy).
EDUCATOR EMPOWERMENT TO SUSPEND
Pursuant to MCL 380.1309(2), the type of conduct of which educators may unilaterally suspend students in grades 6 and above from a class subject or activity for up to one day, is expressly limited to misconduct involving a physical assault committed against another student or other Academy personnel. Physical assault is defined as intentional causing or
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attempting to cause physical harm to another through force or violence. Following an educator initiated suspension; the educator shall send the student to the Principal’s office, immediately report the suspension and reason for the same to the Principal. The educator shall schedule as soon as possible a conference with the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and the Principal to discuss the suspension. The educator and administrator(s) shall be in attendance at the conference. Any student suspended pursuant to this policy shall not be allowed to return to the class from which he or she was suspended from until the passage of one full Academy day from the time of the student’s infraction unless otherwise permitted to return by the educator who ordered the suspension and the Academy Principal’s concurrence.
Further, suspended students under this section shall not be permitted, during the term of the suspension to attend other classes in the Academy building or extracurricular activities, unless the Principal or designee permits the student to continue the Academy day under appropriate supervision. This policy does not negate the Principal’s discretion to impose a multiple day suspension or expulsion beyond the educator’s statutorily limited suspension period when the student’s conduct warrants more severe disciplinary action in the Principal’s sole discretion.
Application to Students with Disabilities This policy shall be applied in a manner consistent with the rights secured under federal and state law to students who are determined to be eligible for special education programs and services.
STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE
Students are expected to follow the rules and regulations of the Student Behavior Code. The Academy will uphold the code and will exercise proper discretion as it pertains to each incident. For further information on expulsion and due process, see the main office. Self-discipline is our goal for all of the students of Tipton Academy. To encourage the development of this virtue, positive reinforcement will be used. Students are expected to follow the rules and regulations of Tipton Academy. The Academy will uphold the code and will exercise proper discretion as it pertains to each in student.
DEFINITION OF DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Conference with student: Conferences are held for all disciplinary problems. Usually it is also a first step for minor violations resulting in a warning being issued. All behaviors and resolutions will be documented.
Parent Conferences: A parent conference can be personal or by phone. This can be used as a second disciplinary action or can be required for other violations. All conferences and resolutions will be documented.
Referrals: If a resolution is not created, student will be referred to school administration by any staff member within the school. All students will be responsible for returning their referral with a
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parent/guardian signature by the next school day. If not returned they may be asked to serve an in-house suspension until all required paperwork is returned.
Detention: May be served during recess, lunch, classroom celebrations, and before or after-school for unacceptable behavior.
In-School Suspension: For chronic irresolvable or major discipline problems, a student will remain in the office for the entire duration. They will work on a writing assignment given to them by the administrator without talking. They are to ask permission to leave for any reason and will be required to eat their lunch in the office. They are to make up all missed assignments and have the same number of days to complete it as they are absent. They will receive an unexcused absence for any time served. It is the teacher’s discretion to assign full or partial credit for the work completed.
Rules for In-House Suspension 1. Students will sit in their assigned seats given to them by the office staff. 2. Students will be in the in-house room by the first hour bell. 3. While in the in-house room there will be no talking, note writing or any other type of communication 4. Students are responsible for keeping their area clean. Any waste can be kept on their desk top until their break time or end of the school day. 5. Students are not allowed to leave their seat unless they have permission to do so. 6. Restroom and drinking fountain breaks will be at 10:00 and 1:00 only and will be limited to 5 minutes. If abuse of this privilege occurs they can lose the remainder of their privileges. 7. There is no food allowed in the in-house room except for the designated lunch period. 8. If a student refuses to follow the in-house rules they will be given an out of school suspension. 9. If a student is absent the scheduled day of in-house or misses any part of the day, they will make up any absent time the next day in attendance.
Suspension: For chronic, irresolvable or severe discipline problems. A student who is suspended out of school will be required to remain in the office until picked up by a parent or guardian. While in the office they will follow the same routine as an In-School suspension. Once serving their out-of-school suspension they are not to be on school grounds during or after school or attend any after school activities. They are to make up all missed assignments and have the same number of days to complete it as they are absent. They will receive an unexcused absence for any time served. It is the teacher’s discretion to assign full or partial credit for the work completed.
Expulsion from the Academy: In extreme cases expulsion from the Academy may be necessary. A student who is expelled may not return to the school for a time period equivalent to one full academic school year. After the expulsion is completed it is up to the Academy to permit re-enrollment into the Academy.
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DISCIPLINE ACTIONS & MINIMUM PENALTIES
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS AND MINIMUM PENALTIES
Every student has the innate right to an education free from being threatened in any fashion. In addition, every teacher has the right to teach just as every student has the right to learn. Any disruption to this process will not be tolerated. The following is a list of some unacceptable student behaviors and the suggested minimum starting penalties. Should a violation not be listed, administrative discretion will be exercised and proper penalty imposed for the violation.
Violations may have different circumstances and therefore administrative discretion may be imposed to apply appropriate consequences and penalties to each individual situation to ensure fairness. If a student misses class for an in-school or out-of-school suspension, they are responsible for speaking with their teacher and making up the work from the class period(s) they missed.
OFFENSE DEFINITION K-2 Minimum Penalty 3-5 Minimum Penalty Dress Code Violation Out of compliance with proper Tipton uniform defined in the Student Code (un-tucked uniformed shirt will be treated as insubordination, see below). Refer to handbook on Dress Code Refer to handbook on Dress Code Rough-Housing/Verbal Confrontation Exhibiting physically aggressive or unsafe behavior including acting carelessly and putting others in danger; instigating or engaging in verbal confrontations where abusive, vulgar, irreverent, lewd, or indecent conduct, including gestures, pictures, stories, or language is used. Removal from class for a designated amount of time.
Parent contact
Parent conference if necessary Removal from class for a designated amount of time to 5 day out of school suspension Fighting An extreme act of physical aggression that is designed to seriously harm or injure another person. 1 day suspension
Referral to counselor/social worker Days may increase with number of violations Out of School Suspension 1 day expulsion depending on severity of the situation. Days will increase with multiple violations. After 10 days an automatic referral for expulsion. Insubordination Deliberate refusal to obey a reasonable request or order by Academy personnel, documented by the Academy personnel and submitted to the office. Removal from class for a designated amount of time.
Parent contact
Parent conference if necessary
Removal from class
An appropriate form of suspension
Continued violation warrants dismissal from the Academy Disrespect toward authority To use inappropriate voice tone, voice level, language, insinuations, mockery, gestures, threats, intimidation, etc. In-house suspension to out of school suspension
Referral to counselor/social worker
Days may increase with number of violations
Referral to counselor/social worker
1 Day out of school suspension to dismissal from the Academy and will add an additional day for each additional occurrence up to 10 days with a recommendation for expulsion Harassment To disturb persistently; torment, Removal from class for a Out of school suspension
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as with troubles or cares; bother continually; pester; persecute. See section on bullying.
designated amount of time
Parent contact
Parent conference if necessary
1 day expulsion
Notify authorities if appropriate
Referral to counselor/social worker if appropriate
Serious threats Written or verbal threats toward self, another person’s life or well being, or the school.
Removal from class for a designated amount of time.
Investigation by Administrative staff and when necessary contact to local authorities and child protective services
Parent contact
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate
Immediate removal from class. Investigated by Administrative staff.
Minimum 3 day suspensionnot to return to school until psychological evaluation determined not a threat to self or others.
Required to make up all missed assignments if eligible to return to school
Notification to authorities and/or child protective services if appropriate
Sexual Harassment The making of offensive sexual advances, touching of personal areas, or of sexually offensive remarks, gestures or acts, that makes another person feel uncomfortable.
Parent notification
Removal from class
Referral to counselor/social worker
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate
Out of school suspension
1 day expulsion
Notification to authorities if appropriate
Referral to counselor/social worker
Forgery Falsely making or altering a writing by which the legal rights or obligations of another person are apparently affected; simulated signing of another person’s name to any such writing whether or not it is also forger’s name.
Parent notification
Dependent upon what and how forgery occurred, loss of some form of school privilege to suspension
Administration to determine appropriate form of suspension for situation.
Parent notification
Notification to authorities if appropriate
Profanity or Obscenities The use of abusive, vulgar, irreverent, lewd, or indecent conduct, including gestures, pictures, stories or language.
Contact parents
Time out of class to in house suspension
Out of school suspension
1 day expulsion
Cell phone Possessing or using a cell phone for any purpose during school hours.
First offense the item will be taken and released only to a parent/legal guardian
Second offense the item will be kept until the last day of school and released only to a parent/legal guardian
Refusing to surrender a cell phone will result in further disciplinary action
See list to the left
Bullying Harassment or Bullying: is any gesture or written, verbal, graphic, or physical act (including electronically transmitted acts-ie. internet, cell phone, personal digital assistant, or wireless hand held device) that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any
Contact parents
Removal from class for a designated time to suspension and in extreme cases expulsion.
Referral to counselor/social worker
Out of school suspension
3 day expulsion
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate
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actual or perceived characteristic such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression; or mental, physical or sensory disability or impairment; or by any other distinguishing characteristic. This also includes ANY behavior that could be perceived as being aimed at intimidating, threatening, or coercing another person. Such behavior is considered harassment or bullying whether it takes place on or off school property, at any schoolsponsored event, or in a school vehicle. Stealing To take (property of another or others) without permission or right, esp. secretly or by force.
Return of items or cost of missing items
Contact parents
Time out of class
Loss of some type of school privilege
Recommendation for counseling/evaluation if appropriate
Return of items or cost of missing items
In house suspension to out of school suspension
Days many increase with the number of violations
Recommendation for counseling/evaluation if appropriate
Plagiarism/Academic Dishonesty
To copy or present someone else’s work as your own or to not be able to distinguish your work from a group of students you are working with.
Consequence is determined by Tipton Academy staff and may include withholding credit until the student retakes the class
See list to the left
Skipping Class/Loitering Being out of class during instructional time without a pass, arriving 5 or more minutes late to class without proper authorization; being present in unauthorized areas in the building or school grounds.
Notify parents to removal from class
1.Notify Parents 2.In school suspension to two days out of school suspension
Gambling/Gambling Paraphernalia
Being found in possession of gaming paraphernalia such as dice, chips, etc., exhorting and/or collecting money under betting or unwarranted circumstances.
Notify child protective services
Up to 5 days of out of school suspension and dismissal from Tipton Academy
Vandalism Deliberate defacing or destruction of school or individual student, staff, or guest property.
Student to remove or parent to pay for removal or replacement of damaged property
Form of time out of class
Student to remove or parent to pay for removal or replacement of damaged property
1 day suspension to expulsion
Notification to the authorities
Trespassing/Loitering Students and parents being on school grounds 15 minutes after dismissal or after a school related function, even if in a vehicle.
Verbal warning; reported to local authorities; after 3 incidents child protective services will be notified; dismissal from Tipton Academy
See list to the left
Leaving School Unauthorized
Leaving the premises of the school without following checkout protocols.
In school suspension to three days out of school suspension.
See list to the left
False Fire Alarm Deliberately pulling or setting off the fire alarms.
Parents will be fined by the local fire department
Parents will be fined by the local fire department
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1 day suspension
3 day suspension
Possession/Usage of Weapon
Any instrument of attack used to cause serious harm to another.
Contact authorities
10 day suspension
Immediate expulsion
Notification to Child Protective Services
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate
Contact authorities - 10 day suspension and referral for immediate expulsion
Notification to Child Protective Services
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate
Alcohol Possession of an intoxicating liquid containing some form of alcohol.
Contact Child Protective Services
Appropriate disciplinary action and/or out of school suspension to expulsion
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate
5 day suspension up to expulsion
Notification to authorities and Child Protective Services
Drugs/Paraphernalia Possession of a chemical substance, illegal or otherwise, that affects the central nervous system causing changes in behavior and often addiction or possession of any equipment used in making, using, or concealing such a substance.
Contact Child Protective Services and Authorities
Appropriate disciplinary action and/or out of school suspension to expulsion.
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate.
Contact authorities 10 day suspension and referral for immediate expulsion.
Notification to authorities and Child Protective Services
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate.
Tobacco Possession and/or use of tobacco containing product including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or other.
Contact child protective services
Appropriate disciplinary action and/or out of school suspension to expulsion
1st -3 day suspension
2nd -5 day suspension
3rd – 10 day suspension and notification of authorities and dismissal from Tipton Academy
Fire type materials Possession of fireworks, stink bombs, lighters, matches, smoke bombs, etc.
Contact parents and 1 day suspension
Contact Child Protective Services
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate
3 day suspension to expulsion
Recommendation for counseling evaluation if appropriate.
Compromise of public safety (teachers, staff, and students)
Exhibiting physically aggressive or unsafe behavior including acting carelessly and putting others in danger; disregard for directives and/or authoritative figure.
Out of school suspension to expulsion
Notification to authorities and/or child protective services if appropriate.
Dismissal from Tipton Academy
WEAPONS USAGE, ARSON, CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT
If a student possesses a dangerous weapon in a ”weapon free school zone” (on school property and/or a vehicle used by a school to transport students to and from school property), or commits arson or criminal sexual conduct in a school building or on
Any student who commits a physical assault against any employee or against a person engaged as a volunteer or contractor for the Academy on Academy property, on any bus or other Academy related
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PARENT GRIEVANCES
Any and all parent concerns and grievances should be brought to the attention of the teacher. If, after consultation and discussion with the teacher, the parent feels the matter has not been satisfactorily settled, the parent may bring the matter to the attention of the Principal. If, after consultation and discussion with the Principal, the parent feels the matter has still not been satisfactorily settled, the parent may make a written appeal to the Superintendent. The Principal will respond in writing informing the parent if and when the hearing of the grievance will take place. If appropriate the grievance will be relayed to the Tipton Superintendent and/or the Tipton Board of Directors. Please be aware that the Tipton Academy Principal, Superintendent, and Board members are in their official capacity to respond to the grievance when and only when they are meeting formally regarding it. Individually (in the hallways, at games, on the telephone, etc) they are not to discuss official business of this nature as it would be considered inappropriate.
EARLY AGE PERMANENT WITHDRAWL FROM SCHOOL
Michigan law requires attendance of each student until sixteen (16) years of age, it is in the best interests of both students and the community that they complete the educational program that will equip them with skills and increase their chances for a successful and fulfilling life beyond Tipton.
For all other Academy policies approved by the Board of Directors, feel free to request a time to review the Board Policy Manual with the Board of Directors Recording Secretary or the Academy Principal.
TIPTON ACADEMY SCHOOL SUPPLY LIST:
KINDERGARTEN:
(2PK) CRAYOLA CRAYONS (1) MARKERS (1PK) COLORED PENCILS 12 COUNT (2) GLUE STICKS (1) 70 PAGE WIDE RULE NOTE BOOK (1) FOLDER (1) 2 POCKET PLASTIC FOLDER (1PK) PENCILS #2 (1 BOX) KLEENEX
1ST- 3RD GRADE:
(2PK) CRAYOLA CRAYONS 24 COUNT (1PK) MARKERS (1PK) DRY ERASE MARKERS (LARGE) (1PK) COLORED PENCILS 12 COUNT (2) GLUE STICKS (1) PENCIL CASE (1PK) PENCILS #2 (1) SCISSORS (2) NOTEBOOKS 70 PAGES WIDE RULED (2) COLORED FOLDERS (1) COMPOSITION BOOK (1 BOX) KLEENEX (2) HAND HELD ERASERS
4TH - 6TH GRADE:
(1PK) CRAYOLA CRAYONS 24 COUNT (1PK) MARKERS and DRY ERASE MARKERS (1PK) COLORED PENCILS 12 COUNT (2) GLUE STICKS SCISSORS (1PK of each) #2 PENCILS/PENS (3) 70 PAGE WIDE RULED NOTEBOOKS (5) COLORED FOLDERS (1) COMPSITION BOOK (1) PENCIL CASE (1) CALCULATOR (1) POCKET DICTIONARY (1) PROTRACTOR (1) COMPASS (1 BOX) KLEENEX
CLASSROOM WISH LIST: PAPER TOWELS, HAND SANITIZER, BABY WIPES, DISINFECTANT WIPES
*** PLEASE PUT YOUR STUDENT NAME ON THEIR SCHOOL SUPPLIES***
SPECIAL EDUCATION INFORMATION
Student Name:__________________________________________________________
Date of Birth (mm/day/yr)
Age
Grade
Does your child qualify for Special Education?
Does your child have a current IEP?
Does your child have a current 504 plan?
Please check any boxes that apply to your child’s current educational needs And areas of weakness:
Reading Visual Impairment Writing Hearing Impairment Math Emotional Impairment Speech/Language Other Mental Impairment (Down’s Syndrome, etc.) ADHD (Hyperactivity) Other_____________________________________________________________
Has your child been expelled in the past?
Date(s):
Reason(s):
Has your child been retained?
Which grade(s)
Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian
Date
REQUEST FOR RECORDS
STUDENT INFORMATION
Student Name: _____________________________________________________________
Address: __________________________City:_________________ St.____ Zip_________
Phone Number: _______________________________ Date of Birth: __________________ □ Male □ Female
School Releasing Information
School Name: _______________________________________________________________
Address: _______________________ City: _____________________ St. ____ Zip________
School Phone Number: (____)_______________________ Fax: _______________________
Records Requested CA-60 with all records/grades, etc. including but not limited to IEP’s Immunization Records, etc.
SCHOOL TRANSFER WEAPONS FREE SCHOOL ZONE STATEMENT
The above student is currently enrolled at Tipton Academy. In order to comply with Public Act 328, please verify that he/she has not been suspended or expelled from school for a weapons violation subsequent to January 1, 1999. If the above has been suspended or expelled due to weapons violations, please attach an explanation as to the current status of the student.
Parent/Guardian Signature:___________________________________Date:_____________
Power School Information
The correct address for powerschool is:
Powerschool.tipton-academy.org/public
1. From this webpage, click on the blue “create account” button 2. Enter in your information (first name, last name, email address, the username and password you want to use) 3. Enter in your student’s information on the lines below (you may enter the names and IDs/passwords for all students in your household) 4. Click on the blue “enter’ button when you are finished, and you will login with your newly created information, enabling you to see all of your students with one username and password
Please note: All usernames and passwords are case sensitive
You can view your student’s information at home, at work, or at the library. If you do not have internet access, you may speak with your student’s teacher to receive updated progress reports. Please keep your password confidential so only you can access the information.
We look forward to partnering with you to create the best educational experience for your student. If you have any problems accessing the site, please contact the front office. For all questions regarding grades or attendance, please contact your student’s teacher directly.
Student Photo/Video Permission Form
As the Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of (Students Legal Name) I/We hereby grant permission to Tipton Academy to use photos, printed names, video footage of our children in school publications, postings in the building, at presentations, and on the school website.
I/We also grant permission for our child to be identified in an accompanying caption used with snapshots as a news item for the school.
Parent/Guardian:
Printed Name:
Date:
Address:
Telephone Number:
Grade and Home Room Teacher:
Note: This form is not required for large group photos where individuals are not identified, or to have a student's name and photo printed in the school yearbook. If you do not want to have your child(ren) to appear in the school yearbook
Pest Control Materials Annual Letter of Notification Tipton Academy 2015-2016 School Year
Dear Parents:
Tipton Academy may apply pest control materials inside or on school grounds as needed. Pest control materials are registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and are selected and applied according to label directions.
Our district utilizes a licensed, professional pest control service firm for the prevention and control of rodents, insects, and other pests in and around the district’s buildings. Their program consists of:
1. Inspection and monitoring to determine whether pests are present, and whether any treatment is needed; 2. Recommendations for maintenance and sanitation to help eliminate pests without the need for pest control materials; 3. Utilization of non-chemical measures such as traps, caulking and screening; and 4. Application of EPA-registered pest control materials when needed.
Pests can sting, bite, cause contamination, damage property, and spread disease; therefore, we must prevent and control them. All pest control materials are chosen and applied according to label directions per Federal law. An estimated schedule of interior pest control inspections and possible treatments is available for review or copying at each school office. A similar estimated schedule is available for application of herbicides and other materials to school grounds. Parents of students may request to receive, at their expense, prior notification of any application of a pest control material, should such an application be deemed necessary on a day different from the days specified in the schedule.
Should you have any further questions, you may contact the main office at (734) 261-0500.
PARENTAL RIGHTS
The sections of the Revised School Code that address this issue are contained in the Michigan Compiled Laws under MCL 15.243, 380.10, 380.1134, 380.1137, 380.1139, 380.1506, 380.1507, and 380.1507a. The sections of the Public Health Code that address this issue are contained in the Michigan Compiled Laws under MCL 333.9208 and 333.9211. The sections of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act that address this issue are contained in the United States Code under 20 USC §1232g et seq. The section of the No Child Left Behind Act that address this issue is contained in the United States Code under 20 USC § 7908. The section of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 is contained in the United States Code under 10 USC § 503.
Reasonableness Section 380.10 establishes the role of the parent as a partner in their child’s education and ensures a positive educational setting.
Section 380.10: It is the natural, fundamental right of parents and legal guardians to determine and direct the care, teaching, and education of their children. The public schools of this state serve the needs of the pupils by cooperating with the pupil’s parents and legal guardians to develop the pupil’s intellectual capabilities and vocational skills in a safe and positive manner. Section 380.1137 specifies that parents and legal guardians are permitted to review curriculum, textbooks, and teaching materials of the school in which the pupil is enrolled at a reasonable time and place. Parents and legal guardians are permitted, within reason, to observe instructional activity in a class or course in which the pupil is enrolled and present. A school board may adopt policies and guidelines concerning these permitted activities and must make them available to the public.
Section 380.1137: (1) In recognition of the rights of parents and legal guardians, the board of a school district, public school academy, university school, or intermediate school district shall ensure that a parent or legal guardian responsible for the care and custody of a pupil enrolled in the school district, public school academy, university school, or intermediate school district may do all of the following: (a) Review the curriculum, textbooks, and teaching materials of the school in which the pupil is enrolled at a reasonable time and place and in a reasonable manner. (b) Be present to a reasonable degree, and at reasonable times and subject to reasonable restrictions, controls, and limits, to observe instructional activity in a class or course in which the pupil is enrolled and present. As used in this sub
Michigan Department of Education http://www.michigan.gov/studentissues
division, “instructional activity” does not include testing. (2) The board of a school district, public school academy, university school, or intermediate school district may adopt reasonable policies or guidelines under this section. Those policies or guidelines shall not unreasonably prevent the exercise of the rights set forth in subsection (1) and shall not create an unreasonable obstacle to teaching or learning, or to administering or maintaining proper discipline, in a school or school program. If a board adopts policies or guidelines under this subsection, the board shall make the policies or guidelines available to the public.
Tagging Record of Missing Student Upon notification by a law enforcement agency that a student less than 17 years of age is missing, a local school district or intermediate school district shall tag the record of the missing student in a manner that will alert the local or intermediate school district to the fact that the record is that of a missing child. [MCL 380.1134].
Instruction in Reproductive Health and Sex Education Following a written request of a parent or legal guardian, a school district must excuse a student, without penalty or loss of academic credit, from enrolling in reproductive health or sex education [MCL 380.1506, 380.1507 and 380.1507a]. If you have questions about reproductive health or sex education courses, please call (517) 373-7247 for more information.
Immunization Waiver Sections 333.9208 and 333.9211 of the Michigan Public Health Code require that a parent or legal guardian applying to have a child registered for the first time in a Michigan school shall present to school officials at the time of registration, or not later than the first day of school, a certificate of immunization verifying that the child has been vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella, poliomyelitis, and Hepatitis B. Beginning in the 2002-2003 school year, the parent or legal guardian shall present to school officials the immunization status for a child entering the sixth grade. In addition, a varicella (chicken pox) vaccination is required for children entering a new school district on or after January 1, 2002.
A parent or legal guardian wishing to exempt his or her child from a particular vaccination must provide a written statement indicating the religious or philosophical objections to the vaccination(s). A child who has been exempted from a vaccination is considered susceptible to the disease or diseases for which the vaccination offers protection. That child will be subject to exclusion from the school if an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease occurs.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law protecting the privacy of student education records and parents’ access rights to those records. Under FERPA, education records include a range of information about a student that is collected in and maintained by schools in
Michigan Department of Education http://www.michigan.gov/studentissues
any format, such as handwriting, print, computer media, video or audio tape, film, microfilm, and microfiche. Examples are:
Date and place of birth, parent(s) and/or guardian addresses, and parent’s emergency contact information. Grades, test scores, courses taken, academic specializations and activities, and official letters regarding a student’s status in school. Special education records. Disciplinary records. Medical and health records that the school creates or collects and maintains. Documentation of attendance, schools attended, courses taken, awards conferred, and degrees earned. Personal information such as a student’s identification code, social security number, picture, or other information that would make it easy to identify or locate a student.
A summary of FERPA is described in Fact Sheet: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (Attachment A).
Parent/Student Access to Educational Records The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives a parent or a student who is 18 years of age access to the student’s educational records. When a student reaches the age of 18 or is enrolled at a postsecondary institution, he/she becomes an “eligible student” and rights under FERPA transfer accordingly. Parents may access the student records of children who are claimed dependents for tax purposes.
Directory Information Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) a school district is required to identify the categories of personally identifiable information that has been designated as directory information by the school board. This information may be released without securing the prior written consent of the parent or 18 year old student if the school formulated and adopted a policy and gave the parent/student the required annual notice regarding directory information. This required annual notice should be designed to inform the parent/student of the types of information the school district has designated as directory information, and should inform the parent or eligible student of any operative policy of the school district regarding recipients of directory information. The annual notice provides the parent/student with an opportunity to object to the directory information designation, in which case information regarding the student cannot be released without the prior written consent of the parent or the 18-year old student.
Directory information is personally identifiable information that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy. Directory information may include, but is not limited to, the following:
Name, address, telephone number Electronic mail address Major field of study
Michigan Department of Education http://www.michigan.gov/studentissues
Participation in school activities Degrees, honors and awards Date and place of birth Grade level Date of attendance Other similar information, e.g., alumni, associations, height and weight of athletes, honor roll members, information generally found in yearbook.
Military Recruiter Access to Students and Student Information The No Child Left Behind Act (20 USC. § 7908) and the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 (10 USC § 503) require a school district to provide military recruiters the same access to high school students as college and job recruiters. A federal notice dated October 9, 2002, was issued and includes a Model Notice for Directory Information and common questions and answers regarding Access to High School Students and Information on Students by Military Recruiters. The documents are available at http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/hottopics/index.html.
Similar legislation (2002 PA 39) was passed in Michigan in 2002, [MCL 380.1139]. A copy of the law is available at www.michiganlegislature.org. The state law provides:
Schools may charge a fee for copying and mailing requests. Limits the use and release of information obtained by the military recruiters. Encourages districts to assign one or more school employees to notify male pupils 18 or older of their obligation to register for selective service. Encourages the armed forces to develop and use a standardized form for requesting access to a high school campus. Excludes from disclosure students with an unlisted telephone number.
Both the state and federal law permit parents to opt out of providing directory information to third parties including military recruiters. Schools must notify parents of that option.
Freedom of Information Act Requests In March 2002, the Freedom of Information Act was amended by 2002 PA 437 to require a local or intermediate school or public school academy to exempt directory information from disclosure that is requested for the purpose of surveys, marketing, or solicitation, unless the district determines that the use was consistent with the educational mission of the school, and beneficial to affected students [MCL 15.243]. The district may require the requester to sign an affidavit stating that the directory information will not be used, rented, or sold for the purpose of surveys, marketing, or solicitation. A copy of the law is available at www.michiganlegislature.org.
This information is provided as a service of the Michigan Department of Education and is distributed with the understanding that the Department is not engaged in rendering legal advice. Those individuals desiring or requiring legal advice should seek the services of an attorney.
Medication Permission Form (For all over-‐the-‐counter and/or prescribed medications)
Student:___________________________________________________________ Date form received:________________________________
Date of Birth:__________________________________ Grade/Teacher:_________________________________________________________
To be completed by the physician:
Name of Medication:______________________ Reason for medication (optional):_____________________________________ Form of medication/Treatment: _______Tablet/capsule _______Liquid _______Inhaler _______Injection _______Nebulizer _______Other Start: Date form received:________________________________________Other dates:__________________________________ Stop: End of school year:________________________________________ Other date/duration:________________________ Restrictions and/or important side affects: ______None anticipated ______Yes (describe below)
Special storage requirements: ______None ______Refrigerate ______Other:_______________________________________ The student is both capable and responsible for self-‐administering this medication: ______Yes ______Yes-‐Supervised ______Yes-‐Unsupervised Physician name:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________________________Phone:____________________________ Date:__________________________Signature:_________________________________________________________________________________
To be completed by the parent/guardian:
I request that (student name)_____________________________________________________________________received the above medication at school according to school policy. I request that (student name)_____________________________________________________________________be allowed to self-‐ administer the above medication at school according to school policy. Date:____________________Signature:_________________________________________________________Relationship:______________
MEDICAL CONDITION
Student Name: _____________________________________________
□ Yes, my child has Medical Condition □ No, my child does not have a Medical Condition
List Medical Condition in detail:
Please attach any relative information regarding the Medical Condition(s) If Medication is needed during school hours, you may pick up a Medical Permission form at the office.
ALLERGIES
□ Yes, my child has Allergies □ No, my child does not have Allergies
List Allergies in detail:
I Do Not Hold Tipton Academy responsible for forgetting to administer medication to my child.
Parent/Guardian’s Signature: ______________________________ Date: __________ If I want to ensure that my child receives the medication, I have the right to come into the school and administer this medication to my child.
TIPTON ACADEMY
Mother/ Guardian Information
Last Name: _________________________ First Name: ______________________
Address: _____________________ _________________ _________________
City State Zip Cell Number: ________________________ Home Number: ___________________________
Work Number: _______________________ Relationship to Student: __________________________________
LIST OTHER CHILDREN IN THE FAMILY
Father/ Guardian Information
Last Name: _________________________ First Name: ______________________
Address: _____________________ _________________ _________ _________ City State Zip Cell Number: ________________________ Home Number: _________________________
Work Number: _______________________ Relationship to Student: __________________________________
NAME DATE OF BIRTH GRADE SCHOOL ATTENDING
WITH WHOM DOES THE CHILD RESIDE? Both Parents______ Mother_________ Father _______ Guardian_______
______ Stepmother ______ Stepfather
PRESENT LIVING SITUATION: ____Own Home ____Renting Home ____ Living with another family due to financial reasons
____ Car ______Motel/Hotel _____ Campsite/Trailer
Knowingly falsifying registration information is grounds for immediate removal of the child from Tipton Academy. I attest that the above information is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge.
Signature of Parent or Guardian Enrolling Student:
___________________________________________________________________ Date: ________ Relationship: ____________________________
Tipton Academy will not tolerate unlawful discrimination by or against students because of their race, color, creed, religion, height, weight, age, marital status, veteran status, citizenship, national origin, sex, handicap or disability, or any other factor prohibited by law. This policy applies without exception. After investigation, persons who violate this policy are subject to appropriate sanctions for their conduct.
1615 Belton Garden City, Michigan 48135
734-261-0500 Fax: 734-956-6360
Principal Suzanne March
ENROLLMENT APPLICATION
Name (full) ____________________________________________________Age_____Sex_____
Address________________________City_____________Zip_______Date of Birth__________
Home Phone_________________________Cell Phone__________________________________
Email Adress____________________________________________________________________
Last School Attended and Address___________________________________________________
School District Where You Live and County Your Home Resides In_________________________
How did you hear about Tipton Academy (newspaper, friend, etc):__________________________
Grade which student is enrolling at Tipton Academy: _____________________________________
Has your child ever been suspended or expelled from another school district? Yes______ No______
Is your child currently eligible for Special Education Services? Yes_____ No______ Does your child have a current IEP? Yes_____ No_____
Is your child currently eligible for Section 504 services? Yes_____ No______
Ethnic: Caucasian_______ Asian______ African American______ Hispanic_______ American Indian________ Other _________________
♦ Is the primary language in your home OTHER than English? Yes______ No________ ♦ If YES, what language? _____________________ ♦ ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEANER: Has the student ever been enrolled in a Bilingual or English Language Learner (ELL) program? Yes______ No_______
Signature of Parent/Guardian Date
More...
DRESS CODE OVERVIEW
Take pride in how you look at all times. Uniforms can help keep you safe and prevent you from being judged by others for not looking a certain way. They also create a serious, distinguished look that tells the world “YOU” are about business. Always be mindful of your personal appearance – it speaks volumes about your character.
DRESS CODE
Our basic standards regarding student dress are based on cleanliness, neatness, modesty, safety and minimizing learning distraction. Uniforms are to be worn at the Academy by all students in grades K-7 except on announced “Dress Down” days.
Friday each week is “Tipton Dress Down Day.” Students may wear appropriate casual clothes to school on that day. Clothing should not contain inappropriate graphics, such as skulls or weapons. Clothing may not contain inappropriate language or suggestive messages. Casual clothes must be in good taste and appropriate in length.
Tipton shirts are shirts that have our school name or logo printing on it. This also includes Tipton sweatshirts, T-shirts, or uniform shirts. Tennis shoes may be worn at any time. Participation in Dress Down Day is a privilege that can be revoked to any student by school administration for any length of time deemed necessary.
Dress code policy will be enforced for all students: K - 7th Grade: Any uniform violation will cause student to move to next step (i.e. no uniform shirt causes step 1 and an additional dress code violation will cause to move to 2). Step 1: Dress code violation form will be sent home for a parent to sign, Step 2: Dress code violation form will be sent home from administration to be signed by parent. Step 3: Student will serve lunch detention. Step 4: In-House Suspension. Step 5: Out of School Suspension.
DRESS CODE – Grades K-7
The Tipton Academy dress code must be strictly followed. Uniform checks will be performed. If students come to school wearing inappropriate attire, their classroom teacher will send them to the office. Parents may be contacted and will be responsible for bringing proper clothing that same day.
Permitted attire: 1. School shirts will be polo style shirts (long or short sleeve) in solid colors with the Tipton Academy logo. Plain polo shirts or turtlenecks in the approved colors are allowed under PLAIN sweaters, and crew neck sweatshirts ONLY. Shirts may not be worn knotted at the back or at the side. 2. Plain sweaters and sweatshirts may be worn over the polo shirt and must be in the approved colors only. Hoodies or hooded zip sweatshirts must have the Tipton logo.
3. Dress slacks will be navy blue, black or khaki and worn at the waist. Knee length dress shorts or Capri in navy or black are permitted until October 15th and after April 15th. Exceptions may be made in the event of unseasonably warm weather. 4. Girls may wear dress slacks, knee-length shorts, skorts, skirts or jumpers in navy blue or black. 5. Socks or tights must be worn at all times. 6. Students may wear regular dress shoes or gym shoes that are not distracting. No open-toed or open-back shoes, clogs, sandals, flip-flops, or platform soles/heels. No boots for indoors wear. NO HEELIES!! 7. Jewelry may be worn providing it is not distracting and does not present a safety hazard.
Gym Uniform – 1. Gym shorts, sweatpants and t-shirts with the Tipton Logo. Students will wear their gym uniform to school. Changing in or out of gym clothes at school is not permitted.
(Students may wear their school uniform on gym days.) Attire that is NOT permitted (K-7) and may cause a distraction to the learning environment as deemed by the school administrator: 1. Pants made of nylon, leather, sweat pant material, mesh, denim, or cotton knit. No YOGA pants or jeans of any type or color. No sagging pants. 2. Any body piercing or tattoos. 3. Sculptured/carved hairstyle (letters, signs, etc.), Extensions, Mohawks and any unnatural hair color (green, purple, etc.). 4. Hats or visors inside the building. No bandanas or other scarf on the head. 5. Any decoration on clothing other than the approved Tipton Academy logo. 6. Ripped or torn clothing. 7. Hooded shirts of any kind unless is has the Tipton logo. 8. Any shirt worn wrapped around the waist. 9. Jackets/outerwear may not be worn in class. 10. Any clothing that exposes a part of the body between the neck and knees. Students who are in violation of the dress code because of sloppiness or “stretching” the rules will be corrected and a detention will be issued. This includes sagging pants. If there are extenuating circumstances, such as a foot injury that may require your child to wear special shoes, please call the school office and let us know. Of course, we make exceptions in these cases.
** All clothing, jewelry, and hair choices should be non-distracting. Tipton Academy reserves the right to determine what is appropriate for the school environment.
2017 - 2018 ANNUAL ASBESTOS OFFICIAL NOTIFICATION
September 11, 2017
Dear Tipton Academy Parents, Students and Staff:
Pursuant to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, AHERA, 40 CFR 763, Tipton Academy is complying with the annual asbestos notification with this publication. Certain construction material may contain asbestos, and are considered Asbestos Containing Building Materials (ACBM).
Tipton Academy continuously monitors the status of known and assumed ACBM throughout its facility. This is accomplished by conducting six-month periodic surveillances in conjunction with three year re-inspections of newly identified or remaining ACBM. Based upon these activities, required maintenance or renovation response actions, abatement of asbestos materials may be necessary.
Our asbestos management plan is available at the Main Office building and can be reviewed by interested individuals during normal business hours. Additionally, your school and/or facility Asbestos Management Plan is also available for review during normal business hours.
If you have any questions regarding this notice, please contact Suzanne March at (734) 261-0500.
Tipton Academy
1515 Belton St. Garden City, MI 48135
ALLERGY LIST
Student’s Name:_________________________________________________________
Teacher’s Name:_________________________________________________________
Yes, my child has allergies.
No, my child does not have allergies.
List allergies in detail:
Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date
BOARD OF DIRECTORS FINANCES TIPTON ACADEMY 6550/page 1 of 2
© National Charter Schools Institute
TRAVEL PAYMENT & REIMBURSEMENT
Travel expenses incurred for official business travel on behalf of the Board of Directors shall be limited to those expenses necessarily incurred by the employee in the performance of a public purpose authorized, in advance, in accordance with administrative guidelines. Payment and reimbursement rates for per diem meals, lodging, and mileage shall be approved by the Board annually. The Board shall establish mileage rates in accordance with the Federal IRS prescribed mileage rate.
Employees are expected to exercise the same care incurring travel expenses that a prudent person would exercise if traveling on personal business and expending personal funds. Unauthorized costs and additional expenses incurred for personal preference or convenience will not be reimbursed.
Unauthorized expenses include but are not limited to alcohol, movies, fines for traffic violations, and the entertainment/meals/lodging of spouses or guests.
All travel shall comply with the travel procedures and rates established in the administrative guidelines.
REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES
Reference: MCL 380.1254; MCL 388.1764b
The Board shall pay or cause to be paid the actual and necessary expenses of its members and Educational Service Provider employees in the discharge of official duties or in the performance of functions authorized by the Board. The expenditure shall be a public record and shall be made available to a person upon request. The Board shall approve payment of an expense incurred by a Board member only if either (1) the Board, by a majority vote of its members at an open meeting, approved reimbursement of the specific expense before the expense was incurred, or (2) the expense is consistent with the following policy, and the Board approves the reimbursement before it is actually paid: The following categories of expenses shall be reimbursable: • Mileage for Board-related activities and meetings, not to exceed the then-current rate established by the Internal Revenue Service;
• Expenses of attending a Board-approved conference, including fees, parking, mileage, meals and housing
• Expenses related to purchase of printed or other materials relating to Board membership; and
BOARD OF DIRECTORS FINANCES TIPTON ACADEMY 6550/page 2 of 2
© National Charter Schools Institute
• Expenses of attending a community or Academy-related event, if the individual attends as the designated representative of the Board. The following categories of expenses shall not be reimbursable: • Expenses of attending a community or Academy-related event, if the individual attends as a private citizen;
• Entertainment expenses; and
• The purchase of alcoholic beverages.
A voucher detailing the amount and nature of each expense must be submitted to the Academy Board for approval at a Board meeting, prior to reimbursement.
Adopted 7/23/13
