Student Handbook and Policies 2014-2015 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TABLE OF CONTENTS HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................. ii HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | SUPERINTENDENT’S OFFICE ...................................................................................... 1 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | 2014-2015 CALENDAR .................................................................................................. 2 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | INFORMATION ............................................................................................................... 3 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | MISSION STATEMENT ................................................................................................... 4 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | CURRICULUM ................................................................................................................ 5 C3 PROGRAM: CARE, COLLEGE & CAREER .......................................................................................................................... 5 Grades K-5 .............................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Grades 6-8 .............................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Grade 9 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Grade 10 ................................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Grade 11 ................................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Grade 12 ................................................................................................................................................................................. 5 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | Gr. K-5 SUPPLY LIST ..................................................................................................... 6 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | Gr. 6-12 SUPPLY LIST ................................................................................................... 7 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | BENEFITS ....................................................................................................................... 8 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TOP TEN GOALS ........................................................................................................... 9 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | BOARD OF DIRECTORS ............................................................................................. 10 LEGAL STATUS OF THE SCHOOL BOARD/PURPOSE ......................................................................................................... 10 SUPERINTENDENT.................................................................................................................................................................. 10 MONTHLY BOARD MEETINGS ............................................................................................................................................... 10 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICY ............................................................................... 11 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | PARENT TEACHER STUDENT COMPACT ................................................................ 15 STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................................ 15 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT ............................................................................................................................................. 16 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | OPERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 17 ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES................................................................................................................................................ 17 NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY ............................................................................................................................................. 17 NON-SECTARIAN POLICY....................................................................................................................................................... 17 STUDENT ACADEMIC HOURS................................................................................................................................................ 18 SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS................................................................................................................................................ 18 AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS ................................................................................................................................................ 18 SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAMS ............................................................................................................................................ 18 SUMMER INSTITUTE PROGRAM ........................................................................................................................................... 18 MAIN OFFICE HOURS OF OPERATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 19 LIBRARY ................................................................................................................................................................................... 19 WEIGHT ROOM ........................................................................................................................................................................ 19 STUDENT FEES AND FINES ................................................................................................................................................... 20 STUDENT ACADEMIC CUMULATIVE FILE ............................................................................................................................. 20 EMERGENCY CLOSURE ......................................................................................................................................................... 20 SECURITY ................................................................................................................................................................................ 20 SCHOOL PROPERTY............................................................................................................................................................... 20 SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY ............................................................................................................................................ 20 Lockers and Personal Possessions within a Locker ............................................................................................................. 20 Desks .................................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Personal Possessions and Student’s Person ....................................................................................................................... 21 TEXTBOOKS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 21 IDENTIFICATION CARDS ........................................................................................................................................................ 21 LOCKERS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 21 HALL PASSES .......................................................................................................................................................................... 21 STUDENT VEHICLE REGRISTRATION................................................................................................................................... 21 LOST AND FOUND ................................................................................................................................................................... 22 THEFTS .................................................................................................................................................................................... 22 TOYS (Electronic Toys and Personal Belongings) .................................................................................................................... 22 RECESS .................................................................................................................................................................................... 22 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | COMMUNICATION ....................................................................................................... 23 TELEPHONE USE .................................................................................................................................................................... 23 CHANGE OF ADDRESS ........................................................................................................................................................... 23 EMERGENCY CONTACT FORMS ........................................................................................................................................... 23 ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY (Also see Discipline Policies) ................................................................................................ 23 MESSAGES FOR STUDENTS ................................................................................................................................................. 23 COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS ....................................................................................................................................... 23 PROGRESS REPORTS - CONFERENCES ............................................................................................................................. 24 VISITORS AND GUESTS ......................................................................................................................................................... 24 SOLICITATION ......................................................................................................................................................................... 25 MILITARY RECRUITERS.......................................................................................................................................................... 25 Notice for Directory Information ............................................................................................................................................ 25 ANIMALS ................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 MEDIA ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................. 26 COLLEGE VISITS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 26 STUDENT EARLY DISMISSAL................................................................................................................................................. 26 STUDENT PICK UP .................................................................................................................................................................. 26 FIELD TRIPS ............................................................................................................................................................................. 26 PHOTO PERMISSION .............................................................................................................................................................. 26 SURVEYS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 27 OUTSIDE GUESTS FOR SCHOOL EVENTS........................................................................................................................... 27 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | RELATIONSHIPS .......................................................................................................... 28 STAFF/FACULTY-STUDENT RELATIONSHIP ........................................................................................................................ 28 CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT ................................................................................................................................................ 28 MANDATED REPORTING OF CHILD NEGLECT OR PHYSICAL OR SEXUAL ABUSE ........................................................ 28 PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIP ...................................................................................................................................... 28 Problem Resolution Policy .................................................................................................................................................... 28 STUDENT COMPLAINT POLICY ............................................................................................................................................. 29 HARASSMENT POLICY ........................................................................................................................................................... 29 ANTI-BULLYING POLICY ......................................................................................................................................................... 30 General Statement of Policy ................................................................................................................................................. 30 Definition of Bullying .................................................................................................................................................................. 30 Reporting Procedures ........................................................................................................................................................... 30 HOMEWORK POLICY .............................................................................................................................................................. 30 SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES .......................................................................................................................................... 31 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ..................................................................................... 32 Severe Weather ........................................................................................................................................................................ 32 Fire Drills ................................................................................................................................................................................... 32 Lockdown .................................................................................................................................................................................. 32 SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING..................................................................................................................................... 32 Crisis Situations ......................................................................................................................................................................... 32 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY |STUDENT HEALTH ....................................................................................................... 33 HEALTH/MEDICATION POLICY............................................................................................................................................... 33 Personal Health..................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Medication Procedure ........................................................................................................................................................... 33 ALLERGIES AND ASTHMA ...................................................................................................................................................... 34 IMMUNIZATIONS AND SCREENING ....................................................................................................................................... 34 ACCIDENTS/INJURIES ............................................................................................................................................................ 34 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | FOOD SERVICES ......................................................................................................... 35 FREE BREAKFAST & LUNCH .................................................................................................................................................. 35 BREAKFAST AND LUNCH TIME.............................................................................................................................................. 35 NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT ...................................................................................................................................... 35 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TESTING ....................................................................................................................... 36 STATE ACHIEVEMENT TESTING – MCA ............................................................................................................................... 36 What are the MCAs? ............................................................................................................................................................. 36 Why do we give these tests? ................................................................................................................................................ 36 Who must take these tests? .................................................................................................................................................. 36 STATE ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER TESTING – ACCESS for ELLs ............................................................................. 36 What is the ACCESS for ELLs test? ..................................................................................................................................... 36 Why do we give these tests? ................................................................................................................................................ 36 Who must take these tests? .................................................................................................................................................. 36 DISTRICT PROGRESS MONITORING – NWEA MAP............................................................................................................. 36 What is the MAP test? ........................................................................................................................................................... 36 Why do we give these tests? ................................................................................................................................................ 36 Who must take these tests? .................................................................................................................................................. 37 HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 iii | P a g e GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS............................................................................................................................................. 37 Requirement 1:...................................................................................................................................................................... 37 Requirement 2:...................................................................................................................................................................... 37 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | K-8 LEARNING OUTCOMES ....................................................................................... 38 ACADEMIC GOALS .................................................................................................................................................................. 38 METHOD, INSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES AND RESEARCH EVIDENCE ............................................................................... 38 SIOP .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 38 GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS..................................................................................................................................... 38 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | GRADES AND CREDITS .............................................................................................. 39 GRADUATION CEREMONY PARTICIPATION POLICY .......................................................................................................... 39 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | ATTENDANCE .............................................................................................................. 41 TARDINESS .............................................................................................................................................................................. 41 REPORTING ABSENT STUDENTS ......................................................................................................................................... 41 DISMISSAL DURING THE SCHOOL DAY ............................................................................................................................... 43 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TRANSPORTATION ..................................................................................................... 44 NON-SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION ........................................................................................................................................ 44 SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION ................................................................................................................................................. 45 BUS PASSES ............................................................................................................................................................................ 45 TRANSPORTATION RULES AND REGULATIONS ................................................................................................................. 45 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | DRESS CODE ............................................................................................................... 47 DRESS CODE POLICY............................................................................................................................................................. 47 Why Do We Have a Dress Code? ......................................................................................................................................... 47 DRESSING FOR THE WEATHER ............................................................................................................................................ 47 DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL STUDENTS ........................................................................................................ 48 UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL STUDENTS ............................................................................................................... 49 PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM REQUIREMENT ............................................................................................................. 49 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | SCHOOL DISCIPLINE .................................................................................................. 50 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | DISCIPLINE POLICY .................................................................................................... 51 MERIT/DEMERIT SYSTEM ...................................................................................................................................................... 51 Merits .................................................................................................................................................................................... 51 Demerits ................................................................................................................................................................................ 51 Detentions/Demerit Cycles.................................................................................................................................................... 52 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | DISCIPLINE POLICY .................................................................................................... 53 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TECHNOLOGY ............................................................................................................. 56 Internet/Intranet Usage .............................................................................................................................................................. 56 Internet/Intranet Etiquette .......................................................................................................................................................... 56 Inappropriate Use ...................................................................................................................................................................... 56 Internet/Intranet and Computer Lab Use Policy ........................................................................................................................ 56 Violation Consequences ....................................................................................................................................................... 57 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TECHNOLOGY USAGE AGREEMENT ........................................................................ 58 NOTES............................................................................................................................................................................................ 59 iv | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | SUPERINTENDENT’S OFFICE Dear Students and Parent/Guardians, Welcome new and returning students to Hmong College Prep Academy 2014-2015! First, I want you to know that I am honored, humbled and excited to serve as the Superintendent of Hmong College Prep Academy. As we start our new year, we often look to our previous years to make improvements, celebrate our successes and look forward to the new school year and what opportunities lay before us. In fall of 2010, we implemented a new online lesson plan program as well as a new evaluation program for all faculty members. TAP, the System for Teacher and Student Achievement, is a national program that supports teachers to become more effective in their instructional practices and students to advance in their academic success. The TAP program also provides strong feedback for our teachers and administrators and we have mobilized our efforts to ensure greater success from our teachers and students. Moving forward, HCPA will continue to utilize student test data to tailor and drive instruction to meet the needs of our individual learners. Beyond individualized student instruction, each teacher will develop their own individual growth plan (IGP). When teachers meet their professional and overall district goals for student growth and achievement, there are additional salary augmentation and bonuses for their hard work. This will allow HCPA to recognize and continue to support the hard work of our highly qualified and effective teachers. In August 2013, HCPA expanded to add a three-level high school building, doubling the size of our school! The new building includes a performing arts auditorium with over 500 seats, 30+ classrooms, 2 music classrooms, large media center and library, state of the art science lab classrooms, high school lunchroom, middle school gymnasium with new administration office wing to serve the entire school. Additionally, the existing building underwent renovations to create more space and classrooms for K-8 students. HCPA’s projected goal is to increase student enrollment to 1300+ by the 2017-2018 school year. In order to keep class sizes small, we will continue to hire additional content teachers and offer more elective courses. HCPA students excel both inside and outside of the classrooms. This past year, service-learning students teamed up with law enforcement and emergency services to film a public service announcement on the dangers of drunk and distracted driving. They were even on TV! Our students were swimming buddies at the YMCA, reading buddies with our younger students, and they cooked meals for families at the Ronald McDonald House and a local nursing home. This year, we look forward to several new projects and initiatives. In October, we are taking our high school students on an "Ivy League Campus Visit" making stops at Harvard, Princeton and Yale (to name a few). In the spring, students can sign up for the “Big 10 Campus Visit” where they will tour campuses like Northwestern University and Purdue. HCPA has partnered with CurriculumLoft and T-Mobile to provide Android devices to all students for use in the classroom. Students in grades 5-12 will have the opportunity to take these devices home to use for schoolwork. We are excited about the possibilities of extending our learning to beyond the classroom with innovative software, lesson planning and interactive components to engage our 21st century students! To support the new projects and initiatives for our students, we have added two additional leaders onto our administration team. Mr. Jason Sellars will be serving as the new K-5 Elementary Director of Teaching & Learning working closely with teachers, staff and students to engage and energize elementary learning. Mr. Dao Lor has been promoted to our Director of Operations & Community Relations and he will work to support school operations and foster relationship outside of HCPA. Mrs. Danijela Duvnjak will remain as our Director of Teaching & Learning focusing on grades 6-12 and Mr. Pao Yang will remain the Chief Operating Officer handling facility management, operations and safety. With all these changes and enhancements, our aspiration remains the same for HCPA: become a “world class school” that encompasses academic excellence and is continually recognized as a school of innovation. We continue to implement the following: Set high learning expectations for all students to succeed – No Excuses; Raise the achievement of all students with personalized and engaging instruction, across all content areas utilizing our C3: Care, College, Career College Prep program; Emphasize learning and innovation that integrates the use of supportive technologies, inquiry, and higher order thinking skills; Offer students challenging college preparatory, honor and Advanced Placement courses; Ensure all students graduate on time to pursue higher education and career opportunities; Infuse Hmong and world cultures into the daily curriculum; and, Ensure all students continue to be culturally and educationally proficient in relationships with students and families of varied backgrounds. I look forward to meeting and working with all students and parents to fulfill the promise and potential of HCPA school district. Sincerely, Christianna M. Hang, Ed. D. Superintendent HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 1|Page HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | 2014-2015 CALENDAR (Q1=41; Q2=41; Q3=45; Q4=46: Student Days: 173; Teacher Days: 194) * Indicates an 11am early release. August 2014 Su M T W Th F Sa 1 2 • 18-29 Teacher Workshops • 28 Student Orientation 3-6pm • 13 • 16 No School for Students/ Staff Development & Home Visits No School/ President’s Day February 2015 Su M T W Th F 1 2 3 4 5 6 Sa 7 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Su M F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Su M Sa 31 September 2014 Su M T W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19* 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Su M October 2014 T W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 M T W Th F • 19 No School/Labor Day First Day of School for K-12 grades/ All School Assembly Early Release/Staff Development (11am) •9 Evening Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:00pm8:00pm • 10 No School for Students Parent/Teacher Conferences 9:00am5:00pm • 16-17 No School for Students State Teacher Meetings • 31 Quarter 1 Ends •5 Evening Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:00pm8:00pm •6 No School for Students Parent/Teacher Conferences 9:00am5:00pm •9 No School for Students/ Staff Development • 27 Quarter 3 Ends • 3/30-4/3 No School/ Spring Break • 3/30-4/3 No School/ Spring Break •6 Quarter 4 Begins Classes Resume • 15 November 2014 Su •1 •2 Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 • 21 Home Visits – No school students • 26 HCPA Culture Day • 27-28 No School/ Thanksgiving • 25 • 29 Early Release/Staff Development (11am) No School/ Memorial Day Last Day of School for Seniors March 2015 T W Th April 2015 T W Th F 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Su M T F Sa May 2015 W Th 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 10 11 12 13 14 15* 16 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 F Sa 30 31 December 2014 Su M T W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 28 22 29 23 30 24 31 25 26 27 Su M Th F Sa 1 2 3 January 2015 T W 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 2|Page • 12 No School for Students/ Staff Development • 22-31 No School/ Winter Break •9 • 10 • 11 • 22 •1 •2 •5 • 16 • 19 • 20 No School for Students/ Winter Break Staff Development day Classes Resume Quarter 2/Semester 1 Ends No School/ MLK Day Quarter 3/ Semester 2 Begins Last Day of School Quarter 4/ Semester 2 Ends Staff Looking Forward Day (Staff Hours TBD) Senior Commencement Summer School begins June 2015 Su M T W Th 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 21 28 15 22 29 16 23 30 17 24 18 25 19 26 20 27 Su M T Sa July 2015 W Th F 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | INFORMATION District #4103-07 1515 Brewster Street Saint Paul, MN 55108 School Building & Main Office Hours – 7:00AM – 5:00PM Front Desk - 651-209-8002 Office FAX: 651-289-1802 DISTRICT OFFICIALS Dr. Christianna Hang Superintendent 651-332-8560 christianna.hang@hcpak12.org Pao Yang Chief Operating Officer 651-332-8561 pao.yang@hcpak12.org SCHOOL OFFICIALS Danijela Duvnjak 6-12 Director of Teaching & Learning 651-332-8586 danijela.duvnjak@hcpak12.org Jason Sellars K-5 Director of Teaching & Learning 651-209-8002 jason.sellars@hcpak12.org Dao Lor Director of Operations and Community Relations 651-334-5660 dao.lor@hcpak12.org SCHOOL OPERATION SUPPORT SERVICES Counseling Office 651-332-8562 Food Program Services 651-262-5357 Health Services 651-209-8004 Library 651-262-5365 Student Registrar 651-332-8575 Human Resources 651-332-8570 Student Attendance 651-332-8568 Technology Support 651-332-8565 techsupport@hcpak12.org Transportation 651-332-8568 General questions can be emailed to futuresuccess@hcpak12.org. Human Resources inquiries can be emailed to humanresources@hcpak12.org. For a complete list of staff/faculty, go to www.hcpak12.org or call 651-209-8002. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 3|Page HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | MISSION STATEMENT Hmong College Prep Academy’s mission is to provide the best integrated, challenging, and well-rounded educational experience to students in grades K-12. HCPA will accomplish its mission at all grade levels via adhering to its core values: Leverage the strong relationships developed with its families, community leaders and partnering organizations. Ensure that Hmong-based leadership and strategic direction is present within all organizational levels. Mold engaged citizens who have a global perspective on how they fit in the world through academic exploration, celebrations (World Culture Day) and community outreach. Provide a public school learning environment that is unintimidating, structured and safe. Develop and nurture pride within the rich heritage of Hmong culture through language literacy, the arts, traditional food and values. Instill a philosophy that the learning process is challenging, interactive and fun. Integrate the concept and reality of college through fun activities (C3 Power Days), coursework, and mentorships. Foster a social environment that develops trust, respect, friendships and self-discovery within our students. Empower a passionate and caring instructional staff to motivate HCPA students to do their best. Encourage students’ participation in an appealing, well-rounded and diverse array of activities. The result: HCPA graduates will be rich in experiences, culture, knowledge & pride and ready for the challenges of college and beyond. 4|Page HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | CURRICULUM C3 PROGRAM: CARE, COLLEGE & CAREER The goal of the C3 program is to build strong character, academic and leadership skills in a supportive environment in order to prepare HCPA students for life after high school. Grades K-5 Students will identify the seven character traits of good citizenship and integrate those into their daily experiences and relationships within the classroom. Grades 6-8 Students will continue to build on the seven character traits of good citizenship and integrate those to become better students as they build strong academic and leadership skills within the school and their peer group. Grade 9 Students will apply the Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens as they expand their role in the community and integrate stronger academic skills across all content areas. Grade 10 Students will research and evaluate career options based on interest-surveys and explain how specific careers align with their interests and strengths. Grade 11 Students will develop public speaking skills through small group, large group, and one-on-one activities within the school and community. They will also research and evaluate post-secondary options that match their future goals, and develop a post-secondary action plan for their senior year. Grade 12 Students will refine their post-secondary action plan, determine specific steps to meet their goals, secure acceptance and a financial plan for their post-secondary choice, and investigate life skills to assist them after graduation. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 5|Page HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | Gr. K-5 SUPPLY LIST GRADE K 1 - Large backpack (label with child’s name) 1 - Pack of #2 pencils (24 pack) 1 - Pink eraser (not pencil top erasers) 3 - Pocket folders 1 - Wide-lined notebook 1 - 24 count color crayons 1 - 8 count color markers (washable) 1 - Scissors (round-tip) 2 - Boxes of Kleenex (or facial) tissues 2 - Small glue sticks 1 - Clorox (or disinfecting) wipes 1 - Box Ziploc (plastic) bags Last names A-L - sandwich size; M-T quart size; U-Z - gallon size 1 - Set of extra clothes 1 - Towel/blanket (labeled) for rest time GRADE 4 1 - Large backpack (label with your child’s name) 6 - 2-pocket folders 6 - Wide-rule notebooks 1 - Pack of #2 pencils (24 pack) 2 - Blue or black pens 1 - 24 count colored pencils 1 - Highlighter 1 - Pink Eraser (not pencil top erasers) 1 - Zipper pencil case 1 - Plastic ruler 1 - 1" 3-ring binder 1 - Scissors (round or pointed tip) To Share 4 - Boxes of Kleenex (or facial tissue) 1 - Box plastic Ziploc bags (sandwich size) 1 - Pack of #2 pencils (24 pack) 1 - Package EXPO dry erase markers 1 - Box of washable markers 1 - Box of 24 crayons 2 - Packages wide-ruled writing paper 1 - Bottle white school glue 2 - Small glue sticks 6|Page GRADE 1 1 - Large backpack (label with child’s name) 1 - Pack of #2 pencils (24 pack) 1 - Pink Eraser 4 - Pocket folders 2 - Wide-lined notebook 1 - 24 count color crayons 1 - 8 count color markers (washable) 1 - Scissors (round-tip) 2 - Boxes of Kleenex (or facial) tissues 3 - Small glue sticks 1 - Clorox (or disinfecting) wipes 1 - Set of extra clothes GRADE 5 1 - Large backpack (label with child’s name) 2 - College-ruled notebooks 2 - Packs of college-ruled loose leaf paper 1 - Pocket folder 2 - Poly (plastic non-tearing) folder 1 - Pack of #2 pencils (24 pack) 1 - Pencil box 2 - Highlighters 1 - Package red pens 2 - Boxes of Kleenex (or facial) tissues 1 - Box washable markers OR colored pencils (any size) 1 - Box of crayons (any size) 1 - Large pink eraser 2 - Small glue sticks 1 - Scissors (round or pointed tip) 1 - Basic calculator (can be inexpensive kind) GRADE 2 1 - Large backpack (label with child’s name) 2 - Boxes of Kleenex (or facial) tissues 1 - Pack of #2 pencils (24 pack) 1 - 24 count color crayons 2 - Wide-ruled notebooks 1 - Paint shirt (or 1 oversized shirt) 3 - Small Glue sticks 1 - Scissors (round tip) Optional for Gr. 2 1 - Roll paper towels 1 - 24-pack colored pencils 1 - 8-color Washable Markers 1 - Highlighter GRADE 3 1 - Large backpack (label with child’s name) 1 - 1" or larger black or white 3-ring binder 1 - Pack of #2 pencils (24 pack) 1 - 24 count color crayons 1 - 12 color count markers 1 - Scissors (round or pointed tip) 3 - One subject wide-rule notebooks 1 - Package of loose leaf wide-rule paper 1 - Package of pencil top erasers 4 - Solid colored 2-pocket folders 2 - Boxes of Kleenex (or facial) tissues 1 - Clorox (or disinfectant) wipes No personal pencil sharpeners All pencils should be #2 If you bring mechanical pencils, you have to supply your own lead replacement No permanent markers All folders are 2-pocket folders No novelty items (Hello Kitty, Transformers, etc.) If you cannot find what is on the list, you can substitute for similar items. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | Gr. 6-12 SUPPLY LIST Hmong College Prep Academy (HCPA) would like to extend our family to yours! We are excited to welcome back all students who are joining us this school year. Our teachers have been working hard getting their classroom ready for the first day of school. Below you will find a recommended school supply list. If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 651-209-8002. _____________________________________________________________________________________ QUANTITY ITEMS 1 box/packet 3 7 sets 1 1 1 2 1 4 packet 6 1 box/packet 2 1 box/packet 2 6 1 1 box 1 pack 3 inches x 3 inch post-it note pads 1” 3-ring binder or 1 3” binder Divider tabs Black back pack (nab aub ntawv) Scientific or graphing calculator (see teacher first) (lub laij lej) Protractor (Geometry and Foundation classes) Graph paper notebooks (spiral-bound preferred) 12” ruler (pas ntsuas) College-rule paper for writing composition (ntawv sau) Single subject notebooks (phau ntawv sau) Black, blue & red ink pens (xaum dub, xiav, liab) Highlighters #2 pencils (12 count) or mechanical pencils (xaum qhuav) Erasers (lub lwv ntawv) Pocket folders USB memory sticks (at least 512MB) Kleenex (120 ply) (ntawv so ntsws) Index cards 3” x 5” No personal pencil sharpeners All pencils should be #2 If you bring mechanical pencils, you have to supply your own lead replacement No permanent markers All folders are 2-pocket folders No novelty items (Hello Kitty, Transformers, etc.) If you cannot find what is on the list, you can substitute for similar items. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 7|Page HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | BENEFITS Small class sizes and school enrollment, offering individualized attention and nurturing the development of each student A highly disciplined and safe learning environment in which all students are motivated to achieve their highest potential High standards and research-based instructional strategies, combined with the expectation that all students can and will learn Hmong culture and literacy classes taught and integrated into all disciplines and daily curriculum C3 program (Care. College. Career) offering college prep courses, college-based activities and career fairs A variety of College-in-School (CIS) classes that can earn both college and high school credit; Advanced Placement (AP) classes & exams and Honors Level classes A technology-infused environment with computers in every classroom and full computer labs and resource centers 1:1 Android tablets for students in Middle and High school students (with opportunities for home use) Station-based Android tablets for all elementary students Arts, crafts and music training to provide students with opportunities to partake in music, visual performance, and theatre arts Extra-curricular activities, including sports, student organizations and class committees Student bus transportation available in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Brooklyn Park, and Brooklyn Center Free Lunch and Breakfast for all students 8|Page HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TOP TEN GOALS Goals As a student at Hmong College Prep Academy, I will strive to: 1. Have a positive attitude. 2. Respect my classmates & myself. 3. Set high, yet practical goals for myself. 4. Ask questions. 5. Take responsibility for my future success. 6. Attend class everyday & be on time. 7. Be prepared with all supplies present. 8. Use class time wisely. 9. Practice self-discipline. 10. Respect school facility & equipment. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 9|Page HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kia Moua, Board Chair Maisian Schiung, Vice-Chair Jason Helgemoe, Treasurer James Cave, Secretary Kalc Vang, Board Member Lucas Yang, Board Member Vue Thaow, Board Member LEGAL STATUS OF THE SCHOOL BOARD/PURPOSE Statutory and constitutional authority in the school board vests the care, management and control of the schools. The school board shall carry the mission of the school district with diligence, prudence, and dedication to the ideals of providing the finest public education. The school board is the governing body of the school district. As such, the school board has the responsibility for the care, management, and control over public schools in the school district. SUPERINTENDENT The Superintendent shall be an ex officio, nonvoting member of the school board. The Superintendent shall perform the following: Visit and supervise the schools in the school district, report and make recommendations about their condition when advisable or on request of the board; Recommend to the school board employment and dismissal of teachers; Superintend school grading practices and examinations for promotions; Make reports required by the commissioner; and Perform other duties prescribed by the board. MONTHLY BOARD MEETINGS Hmong College Prep Academy Board meetings are held every other month starting at 4:30pm in the school building. A current board-meeting calendar can be found on the HCPA website at: http://hcpak12.org/school-board/2014-2015-officialboard-calendar/. 10 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICY Updated January 2011 Hmong College Prep Academy believes that parents (including those who are economically disadvantaged, have disabilities, have limited English, have limited literacy, are of any racial or ethnic minority background, or are parents of migratory children) are partners with teachers and other staff in the education of their children and that parent involvement and empowerment are essential at all levels throughout the school district. Hmong College Prep Academy believes that student academic achievement requires that parents have an understanding of curriculum, academic achievement standards, assessments, district/school policies and procedures, and of how to monitor their children’s progress and work with educators to improve the achievement of their children. District Administration shall work in collaboration with parents and guardians and shall actively support the schools and parents in enhancing parent involvement by: Respecting parents as partners in the education of their children; Valuing diversity and the need for equity in each school; Promoting parent involvement in district leadership and decision-making; Fostering a welcoming and responsive environment for parents; Ensuring accountability of the staff at all levels throughout the district in working with parents as partners; Valuing the need for partnerships within public and private entities in the Hmong College Prep Academy community; Ensuring flexibility and accessibility within administrative operations and flexibility within districtwide processes and procedures; and Establishing and promoting communication as a source of trust and understanding between the district and parents. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 11 | P a g e Administrators, teachers and all school staff shall work in collaboration with parents and guardians by: Respecting parents as partners in the education of their children and honoring their role as first and life-long teachers; Valuing diversity and equity in each child’s learning; Setting high expectations for excellent customer (student/parent) service; Expecting high student achievement for all students; Promoting parent involvement in decision making; HCPA community; Ensuring flexibility and accessibility within school-wide operations and flexibility within school processes and procedures; and Establishing and promoting communication as a source of trust and understanding between the school and parents. Parents/Guardians are asked and encouraged to be involved in their children’s learning and education by: Taking the initiative to seek the best educational opportunities for their children; Understanding and respecting the mission and values of the school; Respecting teachers and supporting school staff as partners in the education of their children; Demonstrating respect for the school as a whole, including the faculty and staff; Developing jointly with the teacher, a school-parent compact for their child that outlines how the parents, the school and the student will share the responsibility for improved academic achievement; Identifying and addressing barriers to parent involvement; Understanding school procedures and opportunities to contribute or receive support; Participating in the development of the school parent involvement plan and the review and evaluation of the plan; Utilizing two-way lines of communication between parents, school staff and the district on the instruction, achievement and conduct of their children; Participating in training opportunities that will include but are not limited to: strategies/reinforcing learning at home, discipline and understanding cultural differences; Valuing diversity and the need for equity in each child’s learning; Participating in decision making; Volunteering in their children’s schools; and Supporting and engaging in developing partnerships within the Hmong College Prep Academy community. The following outline is in compliance with the legal requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. It represents joint development with parents, teachers, and administrators. The policy is available to all parents in the school district. 1. Parents will have an opportunity to assist in developing the building plan, review the program and make suggestions. To accomplish this: All parents will be invited to an annual meeting offered before December to maximize the opportunity for parents to participate and to be informed of the following: objectives and instructional methods; the student selection process; Title 1 Objectives; test scores and how schools are identified for school improvement; and that they, the parents, have the right to request to know the qualifications of teachers and paraprofessionals in their school. The parent liaison with the assistance of the Title 1 teacher(s) will schedule, notify parents and conduct meetings. 12 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 The School District will hold a minimum of two meetings/forums annually, which will be held for the purposes of consultation, advising and evaluation. The participants will be parents, schoolwide support staff, teachers, community representatives and administrators. These meetings/forums will be advertised and open to all parents. The parent liaison and the Title 1 teacher(s) will set the agenda and conduct the meetings. 2. Support will be provided to parents and teachers as they plan and implement effective parent involvement by: Providing parent and parent/child workshops and activities based on the assessed needs and interests. The parent group with the parent liaison’s leadership will plan and conduct one workshop per year. Developing a Parent/Teacher/Student Compact hereafter denoted by the term “compact,” in cooperation with both parents and teachers and promoting its use for the betterment of the students. The compact shall be presented in a way that attends to the literacy and language levels of parents. The compact will include an explanation of how it will be distributed, monitored and assessed. The compact shall be discussed at the fall parent/teacher conference. During the spring parent/teacher conference the agenda will include discussion of the compact for the purpose of evaluating the effectiveness of the compact. Providing a facility that will be a working site for parents to hold meeting/workshops, work on projects and obtain materials to encourage parents to support their child’s learning. The maintenance of the active parent center will be undertaken to the extent possible. Providing current, reputable parent literature/materials in a format that is understandable to parents. 3. In order to promote the school’s and parents’ capacity to form a strong partnership and work toward higher student academic achievement, the school will: Assist parents in such areas as the State’s academic content standards, State student academic achievement standards, State and local assessments, the requirements of this part and how to monitor a child’s progress and work with educators to improve the academic achievement of their children as well as provide information on how parents can participate in decisions regarding the education of their children. Encourage parents to visit their children’s classroom during the school day through participation in side-by-side and daily classroom activities. Inform parents of school activities through newsletters, phone calls, websites, e-mail and other media. Encourage staff to have regular two-way meaningful communication with parents through parent teacher conferences, progress reports, home visits, classroom newsletters, school website and providing opportunities for observation of classroom activities. Cooperate with other agencies and resources to promote necessary training for parents. Parents will be provided with information as to ways to secure their GED through Adult Education Programs and by informing parents that the public library is available for them. Encourage the education of teachers, pupil services personnel, administrators and other staff with the assistance of parents, in the value and utility of contributions parents can make as classroom volunteers, sharing skills and interests, assisting and coordinating workshops, helping in the parent center and encouraging other parents. Develop partnerships with community based organizations and business sponsored programs, workshops and training, and having representation at school functions. Make information available, in a format and, to the extent possible, in the language parents can understand. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 13 | P a g e Provide materials and training to help parents work with their children to improve their children’s academic achievement. Such training would include literacy training and using technology, as appropriate, to foster parental involvement. Parents will participate in the annual evaluation of the content and effect of the school parental involvement policy and practice. They will also consider: Increasing parent involvement, Ways to overcome barriers, which may limit participation for those who are economically disadvantaged, disabled, have limited literacy, have limited English proficiency or are of any racial/ethnic minority background. The annual evaluation will be used to revise and/or design parent policy practices to better parental involvement and parental input. 14 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | PARENT TEACHER STUDENT COMPACT Hmong College Prep Academy views teachers, parents and students as integral contributors and decisionmakers in our learning community. Our goal is that all students learn to challenge themselves to do their very best. Hmong College Prep Academy also believes that each of us has the responsibility to make both the world a better place. For this purpose, we have designed this Compact, which every teacher, parent, and student is asked to sign. Hmong College Prep Academy’s success is a reflection of commitment of its teachers to create and sustain the best possible learning environment. The Compact includes a commitment from each teacher, parent/guardian and student to agree to be involved as a team to ensure every student will achieve and learn. As a primary/C3 teacher, I will: Prepare and present highly effective instruction Model, teach and reinforce attitudes and behaviors that will prepare students to be productive citizens Be aware and sensitive to the culture and learning structure of each student Prepare my instruction to meet their needs for learning and gaining the power of knowledge of each content area Communicate with each student weekly about grades, assignments and tests Communicate with your student’s other teachers about grades, assignments and tests. Guide your student to advocate for his/her self Communicate with parent/guardian at conferences and other times when communication is needed As a parent/guardian, I will: Enthusiastically support and be a part of my child’s school education Attend our annual parent/student/teacher conferences and communicate with HCPA educators whenever I have a question or issue about my child Support homework assignments Ensure and support that my child upholds the Student Code of Conduct and a peaceful, disciplined and respectful school environment Treat Hmong College Prep Academy educators, students and other parents with respect Support Hmong College Prep Academy to focus on service learning and other projects to benefit the good of the greater community Ensure my child will miss the least amount of miss school instructional days, as per law STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES The rights of an individual student are preserved only by the protection and preservation of the rights of others. A student is responsible for the manner in which his/her individual rights are exercised and must accept the consequences of any actions that are committed outside the boundaries of those rights. The staff, students, and parents must work cooperatively to avoid the extremes of regimentation on the one hand, and anarchy on the other if the goal of establishing an optimal learning environment within the schools is to be realized. Rights bring responsibilities. The rights and responsibilities listed here are not all inclusive, for students have other rights guaranteed by the Constitution and by state and local laws. This statement of rights and responsibilities is not expected to cover every situation that may arise. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 15 | P a g e STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT Be committed to always use respectful, honest and responsible behavior Be willing to learn from HCPA teachers and staff that model, teach and reinforce attitudes and behaviors that will prepare me to be a productive citizen. Work to embody these principles in school, at home and in my everyday life Behave in a manner that will not interfere with the learning process and/or endanger the safety of myself or others Complete all assignments and homework as presented by my teacher on time and correctly Not be tardy for class Not miss school for any reason except for those approved by my parents and stated in the School Handbook As a student of HCPA, I realize I am responsible for knowing the expectations of Hmong College Prep Academy, which are strictly enforced. PARENT TEACHER STUDENT COMPACTS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED AND DISCUSSED DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL. ALL SIGNED COMPACTS MUST BE TURNED INTO THE MAIN OFFICE. 16 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | OPERATIONS Hmong College Prep Academy Colors Hmong College Prep Academy Mascot Navy Blue, White, Maroon Warriors ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES Hmong College Prep Academy is a public charter school open to any students that reside in the state of Minnesota. All students have a right to a free public education, however registration is required. A student application can be found on Hmong College Prep Academy’s website or in our Main Office. Parents can also call the school to have an application sent home or stop by the school to enroll their child(ren). According to MN Statue 1240-0 Charter Schools, Subdivision 9: A charter school shall enroll an eligible pupil who submits a timely application, unless the number of applications exceeds the capacity of a program, class, grade level, or building. In this case, pupils must be accepted by lot. A charter school may not limit admission to pupils on the basis of intellectual ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, or athletic ability. According to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act: Parents and school-aged youth have the right to enroll in school no matter where they live or how long they have lived there. School aged youth have the right to continue in the school they attended before becoming homeless or the school they last attended. In addition, school-aged youth have the right to enroll in school without giving a permanent address. Schools cannot require proof of residency that might prevent or delay school enrollment. School-aged youth have the right to enroll and attend classes while the school arranges for the transfer of school and immunizations records or any other documents required for enrollment. Enrollment is on a grade-by-grade basis. If a particular grade has more registered students than our capacity, students will be put on a waiting list. If an opening occurs, students on the waiting list will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis. Siblings of currently enrolled students are given automatic preference for enrollment and positioning on the waiting list. Students currently enrolled in the school are automatically enrolled for the following school year. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY Hmong College Prep Academy does not discriminate on the basis of sex, religion, color, national and ethnic origin in its admission or educational policies, athletics, and other school administered programs. Hmong College Prep Academy will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations, including, without limitation, the constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, age, race, creed, color, gender, national origin, religion or ancestry. NON-SECTARIAN POLICY Hmong College Prep Academy agrees that it will operate, in all respects, as a non-sectarian, non-religious, non-home-based public school. The school will not be affiliated with any non-public or sectarian school or religious organization. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 17 | P a g e STUDENT ACADEMIC HOURS School Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Breakfast is served before classes start. Students are encouraged to arrive early so they have time to eat breakfast and get organized before classes begin. School will be open Monday through Friday, except as indicated on the school calendar. The school calendar is available online at http://www.hcpak12.org. SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS Students are under the supervision of the HCPA School system staff during the regular school day and during school-sponsored events after the regular school day. The school is not responsible for students on school grounds during any other times. Children should not be dropped off at school earlier than one half hour before school beings and should be picked up promptly after school is dismissed. AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS After School Enrichment Program Hours: 3:30 – 5:30 PM Students must sign up with After School Enrichment Program Coordinator in advance. Transportation is provided. Any students staying after-school for other arrangements such as extra-curricular activities, practice or homework help must have prior approval from a staff/faculty to be supervised. An After-School Permission form must be filled out completely with staff/faculty and parent/guardian signature and turned in to the Main Office prior to staying after school. Students not in the After School Enrichment Program but are staying after school must find their own means of transportation and leave the building by 5:00 PM. Hmong College Prep Academy cannot be held responsible for injuries or death resulting from voluntary participation in extra-curricular activities or use of technology, including but not limited to: Open gym activities Outside activities Use of elevator SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAMS Summer School Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00PM Summer school is both an optional and mandatory choice, depending on student’s credit progress and completion. Students must sign up with the Summer School Coordinator in advance. Information about Summer School is sent out at least one month before the school year ends. Breakfast, lunch and transportation are provided. Summer school functions the same way as the regular school year in regards to the Discipline Policies. SUMMER INSTITUTE PROGRAM The Summer Institute Program with Yale University students is an academic enrichment and college preparatory program offered to all students in high school. The program is committed to preparing HCPA students for success in the college admissions process by: 18 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 Providing enrichment ACT preparation to not only increase students’ scores but also prepare them for the rigors of college academics. Introducing students to a more comprehensive view of college by exposing them to different college campuses, giving them opportunities to interact with guest speakers, and helping them understand financial aid and scholarships. Through engaging group and individuals activities, it aims to foster each student’s personal growth as they forge their paths to college. MAIN OFFICE HOURS OF OPERATIONS Office Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM All visitors must report to the Main Office upon entering HCPA. Student(s)/parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign in for the safety and security of all of our students. LIBRARY The library is open from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM most school days. Occasionally, the library will be closed due to scheduled classes, meetings or testing. Teachers must have prior arrangements with the Library Consultant before accessing the Library. The Library is a place for study, research and reading. Library use expectations: Only Library Staff may check out materials and books to students and staff/faculty No materials or books are to be taken out of the Library without proper check-out Be quiet, polite and courteous Use headphones when listening to audio books or music Notify Library Staff if there is accidental damage to library materials, furniture, shelves or displays so that repairs can be made Library Staff have the authority to correct any unacceptable behavior. Failure to follow expectations could result in the loss of library privileges, discipline referral or other consequences depending on the nature of the offense. WEIGHT ROOM The Weight Room is a privilege for the students of Hmong College Prep Academy to use after school. Only current staff/faculty and students of Hmong College Prep Academy are allowed to use the Weight Room. Prior to using the Weight Room, staff/faculty and students must complete a Release and Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement. Students must have their form signed by a parent or guardian. Without this completed form, staff/faculty and students will not be allowed to use the equipment in the Weight Room. Any vandalism or misbehavior in the Weight Room will result as a violation of the Discipline Policies. Students must be supervised at all times. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 19 | P a g e STUDENT FEES AND FINES Aligned with MN STATUTE 123b.37 Fees may be charged in areas considered to be co-curricular, supplementary to the education requirements for graduation or otherwise permitted by state law. Schools shall charge students for lost, damaged or destroyed books, materials, supplies and equipment which are owned by the district, including damage to school property and school vans & busses. Schools may fine students for parking violations on school property. STUDENT ACADEMIC CUMULATIVE FILE Your child’s school records may be viewed at any time. Parents are requested to give the school a written notice one day prior to the school registrar in order to provide adequate time to pull the student records. The student records may only be reviewed in the presence of the Counselor, Registrar and/or an Administrator. However, student records can be viewed through PowerSchool. EMERGENCY CLOSURE Due to severe weather, Hmong College Prep Academy reserves the right to be closed as deemed necessary by the District Superintendent. If the school closes due to weather conditions, KARE 11, WCCO, KSTP, and FOX 9 will announce Hmong College Prep Academy closures. Additionally, you may check http://www.hcpak12.org for updates on school closures due to weather conditions. SECURITY Hmong College Prep Academy is proactive in its attempt to maintain a safe learning environment. The school is equipped with magnetic door locks and security cameras. Camera images will be used in regards to any discipline investigation. SCHOOL PROPERTY All students are expected to respect the school facility and property. Hmong College Prep Academy will investigate all incidents of vandalism. Students will be held responsible for school furniture, equipment, technology and property, which are deliberately or carelessly defaced, damaged, marred, or broken. If found responsible, student(s) will be charged for the damage and/or required to restore the property to its original condition. Parents will be billed for damages to the school property. SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY Lockers and Personal Possessions within a Locker Pursuant to Minnesota statutes, school lockers are the property of Hmong College Prep Academy (HCPA). At no time does HCPA relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students. Inspection of the interior of lockers may be conducted by school officials for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. The personal possessions of students within a school locker may be searched only when school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of law or school rules. As soon as possible after the search of a student’s personal possessions, the school officials must provide notice of the search to students whose lockers were searched unless disclosure would impede an ongoing investigation by police or school officials. The search may include an inspection of school property including student lockers, desks, and other areas in which items may be kept. 20 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 Desks School desks are the property of HCPA. At no time does HCPA relinquish its exclusive control of desks provided for the convenience of students. Inspection of the interior of desks may be conducted by school officials for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. Personal Possessions and Student’s Person The personal possessions of students and/or a student’s person may be searched when school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law or school rules. The search will be reasonable in its scope and intrusiveness. The search may also include the inspection of cell phones, clothing, purses, wallets, book bags, and other personal property. It shall be a violation of this policy for students to use lockers and desks for unauthorized purposes or to store contraband. It shall be a violation for students to carry contraband on their person or in their personal possessions. TEXTBOOKS The textbooks used by students are supplied by and are the property of HCPA. Each student should take exceptional care of the books issued to him or her. Students are responsible for textbooks and other school-issued materials and must pay for any lost or damaged items. Students questioning the condition of a textbook at the time of issue should consult their teacher. Parents will be billed for any lost or damaged textbooks. IDENTIFICATION CARDS Students will be required to carry a school picture identification card. This card will be available after student pictures have been taken at school. You must have a card issued for the current school year. Replacement IDs can be requested at the Main Office or from C3 Teachers Replacements for lost/damaged IDs will cost $5. Refusing to identify oneself or show a school ID to a staff member who requests identification for an appropriate purpose is considered insubordination. Please see the discipline policy for consequences. LOCKERS All students are assigned a locker or cubby at the beginning of the school year. Hmong College Prep Academy will not be responsible for any items found in lockers. Hmong College Prep Academy reserves the right to search any lockers at any time. Any items left in the lockers at the end of the school year will be forfeited. High school students will be held accountable for the return or replacement of any locks removed or lost. HALL PASSES Students are not permitted in the halls during class time, unless students obtain an acceptable hall pass from their student planner authorized by a staff member. STUDENT VEHICLE REGRISTRATION Students who drive to school must have a valid driver’s license and register any vehicles driven to school, daily or occasionally. Students must obtain a driver’s pass from the Main Office before leaving campus. All students who opt for transportation other than transportation provided by HCPA, daily or occasionally, must complete an Authorized Pick-Up Form with parental permission and a ride/pick up pass from the Main Office. Without the authorization form, students will be placed on the bus and/or a parent will be called to pick up the student from the main office. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 21 | P a g e LOST AND FOUND Students are discouraged from bringing valuables to school. Hmong College Prep Academy does not accept responsibility for any items lost by students. Labeling garments, boots, gloves, etc. and bringing money to school, only when necessary, can prevent such losses. Losses should be reported to staff or the Main Office immediately. All found items are to be turned in to the office or brought into the classroom, and claimed by the student within the month or items will be forfeited. THEFTS Hmong College Prep Academy is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Stolen items should be reported to a teacher or an Administrative staff. TOYS (ELECTRONIC TOYS AND PERSONAL BELONGINGS) Toys and other distracting personal belongings such as radios, iPods (other MP3 players), electronic games, trading cards and cameras may not be brought to school unless the student’s classroom teacher has given prior permission. Such items may be taken from the student’s possession and sent home with them or their parent/guardian as arranged. Note: Any item that causes distraction towards the educational process is prohibited unless being used for an educational purpose. RECESS Students have recess on the playground, or in case of inclement weather, in the classrooms or gym. Parents requesting that their child be allowed to stay inside during recess due to medical or physical reasons should make their request in writing. However, in order to stay inside for physical or medical reasons beyond one day, a physician’s note is required. Parents are responsible to ensure that students dress appropriately for weather conditions, as they will continue to play outside for recess during the winter. (Families with financial hardships should direct their concerns to the main office for assistance.) 22 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | COMMUNICATION TELEPHONE USE Students will be allowed to use the school telephones for emergencies only. School phones are business phones. Calls that can be made by students will be limited to illness, accidents, delays after school due to consequences, missing the bus or any circumstances needing immediate response. Permission to use the phone must be obtained from the office personnel. CHANGE OF ADDRESS It is important to keep office personnel informed of any changes of address, telephone numbers, and places of employment of parents, guardians and emergency contacts. Parents may complete the change form online or come to the office. Students MAY NOT change addresses. EMERGENCY CONTACT FORMS Emergency forms are filled out by a parent or guardian when a student is enrolled in Hmong College Prep Academy. When changes occur, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the Main Office via phone or in writing immediately. ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY (ALSO SEE DISCIPLINE POLICIES) Hmong College Prep Academy does not allow the use of personally-owned electronic devices (cell phones, MP3 players, etc.) during the school day. If a student brings a personal electronic device, they must have it turned off and stored in their locker. If the is device is lost or stolen, Hmong College Prep Academy is not responsible in retrieving and/or reimbursing the item. MESSAGES FOR STUDENTS Students are not allowed to be interrupted in class to receive a phone call or visit with guests. All messages are to be given to office personnel in which will be delivered to student either during passing time or after school. In respect for the Main Office, messages must be relayed before 2PM. Any messages thereafter, HCPA will not be responsible for, in regards to it being delivered to the student. COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS Hmong College Prep Academy believes that communication with parents is the key to a child’s education. Therefore, we believe in open lines of communication between students, parents, staff, and families. Hmong College Prep Academy encourages the involvement of parents in their child’s education. Hmong College Prep Academy website: http://www.hcpak12.org. Please see our website for news and upcoming events at Hmong College Prep Academy. Orientation: Every student and their parents are encouraged to attend orientation to meet their teachers, become familiar with the school, and make new friends. Conferences: Conferences are held twice a year during the middle of the semester. Parents are encouraged to attend parent teacher conferences to discuss expectations and progress of your child’s education. Parent Advisory Council (PAC): The PAC meets once a month as a means to provide a forum for parent concerns or questions regarding Hmong College Prep Academy. Letters & Flyers: Letters and flyers will be sent home on a regular basis. All letters and flyers sent by Hmong College Prep Academy will have our logo, letterhead or contact information. If you receive letters or flyers that do not have either, please contact the school immediately. Student/Parent Portal: The student/parent portal is designed so that parents can gain access to their child’s grades and attendance. Parents can also email concerns or questions to their child’s teachers. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 23 | P a g e Parents are encouraged to take advantage of this asset. To obtain a username and password, please contact the Technology Department via email - techsupport@hcpak12.org. PROGRESS REPORTS - CONFERENCES Parents/students will receive student progress reports/report cards at the end of each quarter. Students’ quarter grades will be mailed to the address listed in their permanent record. In the middle of each semester term, Hmong College Prep Academy hosts Parent/Teacher Conferences in which parents will have the opportunity to speak with their children’s teachers about their academics. Yet, teachers may request parents to come for a special conference whenever there is a need. Parents may request conferences at any time by contacting their child’s teacher or the Main Office. A conference will be scheduled at a time that is convenient for both parent and teacher. VISITORS AND GUESTS Hmong College Prep Academy welcomes and encourages parents, guardians and guests to visit anytime throughout the year, with pre-arrangement. All persons, with and without prior acknowledgement to be on Hmong College Prep Academy premises, must sign in at the Main Office. This includes law enforcement officials, caseworkers, third-party vendors, parents, previous students, and employees not part of the dayto-day functions. Guests invited by faculty or staff members for educational purposes must have prior arrangements with the faculty and staff member and the Director of Teaching & Learning. The Main Office must be informed prior to the guest arriving. A log of all visitors will be maintained in the Main Office and guests are to wear their badges at all times when on school premises. Persons caught loitering the hallways without proper escort will be escorted from the building by staff, law enforcement officials or both. All guests on Hmong College Prep Academy premises must abide by Hmong College Prep Academy policies, including, but not limited to: No smoking (includes e-cigarettes, etc.) No drugs or alcohol of any kind No hats of any kind No disruptive electronic devices (cell phones, MP3 players, etc.) Respect Hmong College Prep Academy staff No controversial attire No dangerous or inappropriate jewelry No use of profanity No loose chains Appropriate attire Hmong College Prep Academy reserves the right to take precautionary measures with guests when deemed necessary. Such measures may include, but not be limited to: Walking through the metal detectors Searches through bags and carry-in items Conditional confiscation of unsafe and inappropriate items Sobriety testing Refusal of entrance of the building Failure to cooperate with Hmong College Prep Academy policies may result in refusal of entrance to the building, law enforcement intervention or both. Parents/Guardians who need an item delivered to their child must check in the Main Office for identification purposes and contact information. The item will then be delivered to the child by school personnel. 24 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 If a parent would like to speak with a teacher, a meeting time must be arranged in advance. Parent/teacher meetings should be arranged before or after school hours as teachers cannot step away from classroom duties to confer with a parent on a moment’s notice. SOLICITATION Solicitation, Distribution and Loitering by Employees or Non-Employees for any purpose is prohibited at all times anywhere on school premises. Any non-employee violating this policy will be required to leave the school premises. MILITARY RECRUITERS Notice for Directory Information Two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories (names, addresses and telephone listings) unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. If you do not want your student’s information disclosed, inform the Main Office in writing by October 1st of the current school year. ANIMALS For health and safety reasons, all animals must remain outside of the building during school hours and away from Hmong College Prep Academy premises, either in a vehicle or securely restrained across the street. Prior arrangements must be made with the administration to ensure safety and proper accommodations for animals used for educational purposes. Service animals are welcome. MEDIA For the safety and security of the students and staff, the media must have prior arrangements to be on Hmong College Prep Academy premises with the Superintendent, Chief Operating Officer, or both in order to gain valid access to Hmong College Prep Academy. Failure to comply will result in refusal of entrance to the building and law enforcement intervention. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 25 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | PROCEDURES COLLEGE VISITS College visits are a privilege and are only based on the student being on track for graduation. In the event of a student visiting a college on his/her own during school hours, the student must obtain a College Visit Form from the Counseling Office. Arrangements must be made prior to the college visit date. Hmong College Prep Academy requires consent and acknowledgement from both parents and HCPA staff. By signing the consent form, the parent/guardian acknowledges and accepts that Hmong College Prep Academy will not be held liable and/or responsible should any injury or harm come to the student involved in the college visit. Returning the completed form does not guarantee that the visit is granted. Again, college visits are a privilege and are only based on the student being on track for graduation. If you do not follow proper procedures and you leave for the visit, you will have to face consequences in violation of leaving the building without permission, skipping class and/or being absent. STUDENT EARLY DISMISSAL During school hours, no student will be released from Hmong College Prep Academy to any persons, other than the parent or legal guardian. Prior notice in writing or a phone call must be obtained from the parent/guardian before a student is authorized to leave with an individual other than the parent/guardian. Students are required to obtain a pass from the Main Office. In the event that the parents are separated, the school will release the student only on the directions of the parent who has custody at that time. A current copy of custody papers should be kept on file. (Also see Dismissal During the School Day) STUDENT PICK UP Parents/guardians are required to stop into the office when checking students out of school. Parents are not allowed to go to the classroom or walk out onto the playground to pick up their child. Students will be called down to the office once the parents have arrived in the school office. Parents need to sign their child out of school. Parents must call the main office at 651-209-8002 by 2pm if there are any changes to the transportation needs of the child(ren). FIELD TRIPS Field trips are an important asset to the educational process. Field trips are a privilege and an earned experience. Students are expected to conduct themselves in the same fashion during trips as if they would in school. Students may not attend field trips without a signed permission form by their parent and/or guardian and forms must be turned into the staff by the date specified. Parent permission by phone will not be accepted. Parents will be asked to sign a Field Trip Permission Slip early in the year for all school events. Parents can be assured that all field trips are linked to the appropriate Minnesota Academic Standards. All students attending a field trip must wear their uniform unless told otherwise, by the Chief Operating Officer. Students attending field trips are representing Hmong College Prep Academy and are expected to be on their best behavior. Those who fail to comply with these policies will not be allowed to attend the field trip. In addition, participation on future field trips may be forfeited because of misbehavior. PHOTO PERMISSION HCPA may take photos of your child’s image; duplicate it electronically or by other means as part of the normal student activities at school. These images may be published by HCPA in various brochures, 26 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 promotional material, school yearbooks, and on the World Wide Web (internet). If you do not want us to use your child’s image, please inform the Main Office. SURVEYS HCPA may conduct surveys throughout the school year. Survey results may be published by HCPA in various brochures, promotional material, school yearbooks, and on the World Wide Web (internet). Some surveys may require additional permission in which you will be contacted. If you do not want your child to participate in any school survey, please inform the Main Office. OUTSIDE GUESTS FOR SCHOOL EVENTS Each school event is closed to the public unless otherwise noted. Any students planning to bring a guest to an event is solely responsible for their guest’s behavior. Misconduct, in any form, will result in immediate dismissal from the event and future events. During school events, all guests must stay in the designated areas. Failure to do so will result in immediate dismissal. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 27 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | RELATIONSHIPS Hmong College Prep Academy conducts criminal history background checks on all employees and other individuals that provide services for the school. STAFF/FACULTY-STUDENT RELATIONSHIP According to MSBA/MASA Model Policy #423, every employee is to provide students with appropriate guidance, understanding and direction, while maintaining a standard of professionalism, and acting with accepted standards of conduct. CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT MANDATED REPORTING OF CHILD NEGLECT OR PHYSICAL OR SEXUAL ABUSE According to District Policy 414 If this is an urgent situation needing immediate action, call 911. Minnesota educators are mandatory reporters. State Law requires educators to report physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect of children to authorities. Any faculty member who knows or has reason to believe a child is being neglected or abused must report this immediately to the appropriate Child Protection Agency. Hennepin County: Ramsey County: 612-348-3552 651-266-4444 Child abuse must be reported to the county in which it is occurring. HCPA also requires employees who make a report to a Child Protection Unit to immediately complete the Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect Form and submit to the Chief Operating Officer or the Superintendent. Notification to the Chief Operating Officer or the Superintendent following the reporting to the appropriate county is important so that HCPA is prepared to handle any communications from the parents, school community or authorities about the matter. Employees are also encouraged to call the National Child Hotline Abuse Center if they would like to speak to a counselor and receive advice or guidelines on dealing with suspected child abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline - 1-800-422-4453 PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIP Problem Resolution Policy In an event that a disagreement should occur between a parent and a member of the HCPA staff regarding the educational programs of a student, the following procedure will be used to reach an acceptable working relationship: 1. When a problem arises, the parent will be asked to contact their child’s teacher. 2. If the problem cannot be resolved between the student and the teacher, the Counselor and/or an administrator will meet with both parties to address the situation. 3. If the problem still cannot be resolved, the parent and teacher, Counselor and Superintendent will meet to resolve the problem. 28 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HCPA strives to be a peaceful community. Under no circumstances will abusive, threatening behavior be tolerated by anyone in the HCPA community. All business will be conducted with calmness and respect. STUDENT COMPLAINT POLICY If a student has a complaint about an employee at HCPA, the following process needs to be followed to resolve the conflict: 1. A time will be established to share his/her concern and to positively resolve the situation 2. If a student is uncomfortable meeting with the employee alone, he/she may contact the Dean of Students or Counselor, who will meet with both student and employee to resolve the issue 3. If the student is uncomfortable meeting with the employee, he/she may write down their issues and ask the Dean of Students or Counselor to first meet with the employee, then involve both parties in resolving the situation 4. If the situation cannot be resolved between the two parties, the parents may be asked to become involved. HARASSMENT POLICY Harassment in forms of sexual, racial and religious is a serious offense and is NOT tolerated at HCPA. HCPA maintains a learning and working environment free from all forms of harassment and violence. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination. Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct and/or other verbal or physical conduct or communication. Sexual violence is a physical act of aggression that includes a sexual act or sexual purpose. Racial and religious harassment consists of physical or verbal conduct relating to an individual’s race and/or religion when the conduct: 1. Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or academic environment 2. Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance; or 3. Otherwise adversely affects an individual’s employment or academic opportunities1 It is a violation of this policy for any student or employee to harass a student or an employee through conduct or communication of any of this nature and/or any student or employee to be violent to a student or employee. Harassment and Violence Report Forms are available in the Counselor’s office. The Counselor, Dean of Students and/or the Chief Operating Officer should be the sole person(s) available for any verbal reports of such behavior. HCPA will act to investigate all complaints, formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment or violence and to discipline any student or employee who harasses or is violent to a student or employee of the school. 1 Definitions of harassment is in accordance to MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413; more information can be found at http://www.dps.state.mn.us HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 29 | P a g e ANTI-BULLYING POLICY General Statement of Policy The School Board recognizes the negative impact that bullying can have on the health and safety of students and the learning environment. Bullying can create distress, anxiety, lower levels of self-esteem, and feelings of isolation. Bullying disrupts the rights of others to an education and is unacceptable in any environment. HCPA endeavors to maintain a learning and working environment that is free of bullying. Toward that end, bullying is prohibited on school grounds, at school-sponsored events and activities, via internet or other electronic devices, on school buses and other school-sponsored transportation and at school bus stops. The School District acknowledges that for this policy to be effective, school personnel must fulfill their responsibilities assigned by this policy. DEFINITION OF BULLYING “Bullying” means repeated behavior by an individual student, an individual student within a group of students, or group of students that is intended to cause the victim(s) to feel frightened, threatened, intimidated, humiliated, shamed, disgraced, ostracized, or physically abused. Bullying implies an imbalance in power or strength in which the student being bullied has difficulty defending him or herself. Bullying can take many forms, including physical, verbal, social/relational and/or cyber bullying. Reporting Procedures Victims/Targets. All students who believe they have been the victim/target of bullying shall promptly report the bullying to a teacher, administrator or other staff member. Parents/Guardians. All parents/guardians who become aware of any bullying are encouraged to report the bullying to a teacher, administrator or other staff member. Student Witnesses. All students who witness or become aware of bullying shall immediately report the bullying to a teacher, administrator or other staff member. School Personnel. Any staff person who witnesses bullying shall immediately intervene and take appropriate action to stop the bullying. In addition, any staff person who witnesses or receives a report of bullying shall make a report to the administration or their designee and follow any other processes put in place by the school for reporting bullying incidents. Administrators. An administrator who observes bullying or receives a report of bullying shall document the incident and ensure that the school process for investigating and following up on bullying incidents is implemented in a timely manner. The entire policy can be found through our District Office. HOMEWORK POLICY Teachers assign homework as a learning extension for the school day. Students are expected to turn in homework when it is assigned. Each teacher will set the policy for homework. Please refer to the information that you receive at Orientation for specific homework policies of your child’s teachers and review the teacher’s website for updates on homework and other assignments. 30 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES Special Education Services are offered by Hmong College Prep Academy. These services are designed to help your child succeed in their academics at the school. Parents can meet with their Child’s teacher, and the Counselor, if they have academic or behavioral concerns. Before a student is referred for a special education evaluation, the school must conduct and document at least two instructional strategies, alternatives, or interventions using a system of scientific, research-based instruction and intervention in academics or behavior based on the student’s needs. The teacher(s) and the Counselor can help determine whether a referral for special education assessment needs to be completed following the documentation of pre-referral interventions. If a referral is filed, a team including the parents, teachers, the Counselor, and Special Education staff will meet to address the concerns and determine if testing is needed. Students who qualify for services based on their assessment results and other factors will he served by the Special Education staff at the school. The Special Education staff will work with classroom teachers in developing specific academic and behavioral strategies and interventions for each learner. They will also ensure that student individual Education Plans (lEPs), 'are in full compliance with all due process requirements and developed with appropriate input from classroom teachers, parents, and other key individuals. HCPA intends to fully integrate students with disabilities into all programs to whatever extent possible. it will abide by all relevant legislation, including the individuals with Disabilities Education Act (lDEA) regulations, Title lI of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Our comprehensive Child Find process will identify students in need of services and ensure compliance with all requirements mandated within a student’s IEP. Should a student's needs and IEP require services other than inclusion, Hmong College Prep Academy will meet those needs, including using outsourced and contracted services. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 31 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | EMERGENCY PROCEDURES HCPA maintains safety and protection of students and employees as one of our greatest concerns. Every effort is made to keep work areas safe and hazard-free. An emergency map is located in every classroom for easy access. Mandatory drills are conducted throughout the year. Random checks with metal detectors are performed yearly. SEVERE WEATHER In the event of a tornado or a severe thunderstorm warning, students and teachers will relocate to their designated tornado shelter area. An emergency map is located in every classroom. If the warning should come at school dismissal time, the students will be held until the all-clear announcement is given. FIRE DRILLS In accordance with the rules and regulations of the St. Paul Fire Department, fire drills will be carried out on a routine basis throughout the school year. Evacuation routes are posted in every classroom. LOCKDOWN All staff and faculty are properly trained each year for lockdown procedures. Should a lockdown occur, students are to follow staff directions. Lockdown procedures are varied depending upon the location of the threat. Many variations are discussed and practiced. SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING Students are encouraged to notify staff and teachers of any threats to the school community. A voice-line has been created to report concerns. This phone number is 612-888-5234. CRISIS SITUATIONS We have written plans for varied crisis situations. HCPA continues to complete drills with staff and students. If for any reason, we need to evacuate the building, parents will be required to pick up their students at a different location. We will make that information known through an auto-call to parent’s phone numbers and through the media. We ask parents to assist with the following: 1. Always update HCPA with current emergency contact information. a. We will only release students to parent-authorized individuals in an emergency. 2. Do NOT try to contact HCPA or come to the school during a crisis. a. This will only slow down the process we have in place to connect you with your children. b. Please be patient. 3. Be prepared to bring a photo ID for any reunification process. 32 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY |STUDENT HEALTH HEALTH/MEDICATION POLICY Personal Health Every reasonable provision will be made to provide a wholesome, healthy atmosphere for each child during his/her stay at school. There is a very real correlation between a child’s health and his/her experience at school and the ability to profit from it. The home can make a great contribution in this area by: Seeing that each child consistently gets adequate rest and sleep Seeing that each child eats well Making sure each child wears weather-appropriate clothing, especially jackets and boots during winter because of our rapidly changing weather, make sure the entire day’s weather forecast is considered Not allowing a child who is sick or may be sick to come to school and/or allowing a teacher to decide whether or not he/she is sick Keeping a child home after a sickness until his/her temperature has been normal for 24 hours without use of fever-reducing medication. If a child is brought to school sick, or becomes ill during the day, his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) will be called and asked to pick him/her up Parents are encouraged to schedule wellness visits to the doctor and dental appointments outside of school hours to avoid missing schoolwork. Medication Procedure The policy for administering medication by Hmong College Prep Academy personnel is as follows: The administration of medication to students shall be done only in the exceptional circumstances where the student’s health may be jeopardized without it Students requiring medication at HCPA shall be identified by the parent or guardian to the Health Office. Sending medication with your child without notifying HCPA could be both hazardous and cause legal issues if the medication falls into the wrong hands The parent or guardian and the attending physician or health care provider must complete the Administration of Medication Form in order for a member of the health office to administer medication to a student. This form releases HCPA personnel from liability should reactions result from the medication dosage, the time it is to be given, for how long it is to be given and possible side effects. Forms for medication can be obtained at the HCPA Health Office The administration of medication form needs to be completed for each academic school year and it is valid for that year. Please note that an administration of medication form needs to be completed for each prescribed and /or over-the-counter medication. Any medication sent to school must be in the original container and must be brought to the Health Office for safekeeping. Again, the Administration of Medication Form must accompany necessary medications from the parent(s)/guardian(s) and doctor or health care provider. The following information must be written on the container: name of child, date of birth, dosage, and time HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 33 | P a g e medication is to be taken. Any leftover medication must be picked up within two (2) weeks after the last day of school; otherwise, it will be discarded. ALLERGIES AND ASTHMA When your child has asthma and/or allergy to a product, food, or specific item that may be life threatening, please notify the Health Coordinator. Students identified are allowed to self-carry and self-administer their medication by request of their parent and/or guardian and authorized by their physician or health care provider. Constant communication between all parties involved will help to insure that reasonable provisions will be taken. IMMUNIZATIONS AND SCREENING The Minnesota School Immunization Law requires that all students be properly vaccinated in order to remain enrolled in school. Since immunization laws change frequently, the Health Office will contact you if additional information regarding immunizations, is needed. Immunizations will need to be up-to-date PRIOR to school entrance for ALL students. Foreign exchange students and transfer students will have 30 days to update their immunizations. The Health Office will provide periodic screening for vision and hearing. The State immunization requirements will be strictly enforced for all students. Students who do not meet the requirements will be denied admittance. Transfer students will be given 30 calendar days from the date of enrollment to submit a complete Certification of Immunization or Exemption. Revised changes to the mandatory immunization law will be applied immediately. ACCIDENTS/INJURIES In the event of an accident or injury at school, depending on its severity, emergency first aid is administered. Every effort is made to contact the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s). If parent(s)/guardian(s) cannot be reached, either at home or at work, emergency contacts provided on student’s HCPA Emergency Contacts Form will be contacted. If emergency contacts are unable to be reached, the physician and/or health care provider listed on the form will be contacted. If all else fails, 9-1-1 will be contacted and the student may be transported to the nearest hospital for emergency treatment. The student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) are responsible for any expense incurred as a result of emergency action taken by school personnel. Following the return to school, consideration will be given to support injured students through the Health Team. A written note by the doctor, hospital and/or health care provider must be provided if there are any restrictions. If there are any additional health concerns regarding your child that Hmong College Prep Academy should be aware of, please contact the Health Office or Administration immediately at 651-209-8004. 34 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | FOOD SERVICES FREE BREAKFAST & LUNCH HCPA will follow the Community Eligibility Program (CEP) of the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, CEP offers reductions in program record keeping and reporting requirements to schools that are able to offer breakfast and lunch to all students at no charge (including those not qualified for free/reduced meals). Note that all Hmong College Prep Academy Students (Grades K -12) must: Complete and submit the Application for Educational Benefits per family, regardless of your eligibility. Must be completed by October 1, 2014. Take every food item the school offers (breakfast=3 out of 4 components; lunch=4 out of 5 components) before entering their Student ID. No pre-scanning and no second helping of meals. If your child/children have any food allergies or food restrictions, please contact the Health Office immediately at 651-209-8004 or notify the Food Coordinator. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH TIME All students receive a student ID at the beginning of the school year for use at breakfast and lunch. Although students are not required to eat school breakfast and lunch, we strongly encourage students to eat as the meals are free of charge. Only Seniors who are in good academic standing, have perfect attendance and are on track for graduation, may apply to eat off-campus during their last semester. Otherwise, all students are required to remain on campus at all times unless specified by their teacher or school official. Lunch is to be eaten in the cafeteria ONLY and during assigned periods. NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice). Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339 or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 35 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TESTING STATE ACHIEVEMENT TESTING – MCA What are the MCAs? The Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) are state tests in mathematics, reading and science that meet the requirements of the federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). They are given every year in the spring to measure student performance against the Minnesota Academic Standards that specify what students in a particular grade should know and do. MCA Math, Science and Reading are administered online. Why do we give these tests? We use the MCAs to confirm our curriculum and instruction are aligned to Minnesota Academic Standards in mathematics, reading and science. Results help us continue to improve classroom teaching and learning. We also look for areas of future improvement for teachers and students based on results. The mathematics and reading assessments are also used in federal school accountability measurements. Who must take these tests? The State of Minnesota and ESEA requires that all students in public schools participate in the statewide assessment program. Mathematics and reading tests are given in grades 3–8 and high school (students in grade 10 take the Reading MCA and students in grade 11 take the Mathematics MCA). The Science MCA is given to students in grades 5 and 8 and in the high school grade when they take a life science or Biology course. Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan may be eligible for accommodations or an alternative assessment form. STATE ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER TESTING – ACCESS FOR ELLS What is the ACCESS for ELLs test? ACCESS for ELLs stands for Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State-to-State for English Language Learners. This large-scale test addresses the English language development standards in the domains of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Items are written from performance indicators of the social and instructional language, the language of language arts, math, science and social studies. Why do we give these tests? ACCESS for ELLs helps the state and HCPA monitor English language student growth in the domains of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Results are used to inform instructional decisions, curriculum needs and student placement or leveling decisions within our English Learner (EL) program. Who must take these tests? Any student who qualifies for EL service at HCPA will take ACCESS for ELLs each spring until exiting the program. DISTRICT PROGRESS MONITORING – NWEA MAP What is the MAP test? The Measurement of Academic Progress (MAP) is an adaptive assessment that measures student growth in reading and math. It is administered at least three times a year, in the fall, winter and spring. Why do we give these tests? All HCPA students have MAP growth targets and take ownership of their learning as a result of this information. MAP data is used for class placement decisions, to differentiate instruction, create flexible 36 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 groupings of students and to inform intervention strategies. MAP results are also used to monitor district progress and predict performance on MCAs. Who must take these tests? All students K-12 take MAP in the fall, winter and spring each year. Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan may be eligible for accommodations. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS In addition to meeting course credit requirements, students at HCPA must complete two assessment requirements in order to earn a high school diploma. Requirement 1: Seniors must meet or exceed their personal growth goals on MAP Reading and Math. Goals are provided to students in the fall and must be met at the spring testing session. Even if a student met his/her goal in the winter, he/she must maintain or exceed that goal in the spring as well. If students have not met their personal MAP goals at the spring administration, retest opportunities will be provided. If the student still does not meet his/her goal after the retest opportunities, the student must attend and successfully complete Summer School in order to receive his/her diploma. Student will only be required to attend Summer School in the subject area that he/she does not meet (math or reading). Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan may be eligible to pass based on a case manager set individual passing score. Requirement 2: Seniors must take a college/career readiness assessment (ACT, SAT, ACCUPLACER, or its equivalence) and provide HCPA a copy of the result report by the last day of school for seniors. There is not a specific score that must be achieved, but we recommend student strive for their personal best, as these test results will be viewed by colleges and/or prospective employers. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 37 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | K-8 LEARNING OUTCOMES ACADEMIC GOALS We know that many students at HCPA may be English Language Learners, and have therefore chosen academic goals that show each student’s progress even if English skills are not yet at grade level. We will utilize two NWEA formats: the MAP for Primary Grades (Grades K-2) and the MAP (Grades 3-12) to show progress for all students. HCPA will address the MN content standards in three constructive ways: 1) Curricular materials will be identified for use in K-12 classrooms based on their strong connection with the MN standards. 2) Instructional Units and weekly lesson plans will be designed using “backward” planning - to decide first which learning objectives students are expected to master, then which methods best support learning for all students. 3) Common assessments, that either are identified or developed by classroom teachers, will be based on the standards and will include key materials in the MCA II assessments. All instruction will be based on MN Academic Standards and Sub-strands and on the MN ESL standards. METHOD, INSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES AND RESEARCH EVIDENCE HCPA will use well-researched methods and instructional techniques geared to meet the needs of four academic groups of students: students exceeding grade level standards, students meeting grade level standards, and students not meeting grade level standards, and an English Language Learning (ELL) population that will be weak in English language and math skills. Because our ELL enrollment may be as high as 98% (similar to that of other Hmong-focused schools), we will utilize several formalized programs: NovaNet, Study Island, Accelerated Reading, Accelerated Math and more. These programs provide proven methodologies that will maximize learning opportunities for ELL students. SIOP Sheltered Instruction Observation Program (SIOP) provides all classroom and ELL teachers with a proven articulated, practical model of sheltered instruction. The intent of this model is to facilitate high quality instruction for ELLs in content area teaching. The program is based on current knowledge and researchbased practices for promoting learning with ELLs. GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS HCPA’s high school program is geared toward gifted students by challenging all students to use all of their resources and abilities. By setting students’ sights on gaining college admission and continually being surrounded by college-based activities, our students are motivated to succeed beyond what they would do in less challenging learning environments. 38 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | GRADES AND CREDITS Hmong College Prep Academy has 2 semesters. Each semester has 2 quarters with a total of 4 quarters per school year. Grades are given at every quarter; however, credits and final grades are only awarded at the end of each semester. Each class per semester is worth 1.5 credits. A full year is worth 3.0 credits. Only semester grades and credits are displayed on the transcript. ACT/CEEB CODE: 241582 Grading: Credits are awarded at the end of each semester. Letter grades and a 4-point scale are used to determine GPA. Weight is ONLY awarded to college level courses on a 5point scale, such as CIS and PSEO classes. Honors classes are weighted the same as regular classes (on a 4-point scale). A AB+ B BC+ C CD+ D DF A B C D F = = = = = = = = = = = = 4.0 3.667 3.333 3.0 2.667 2.333 2.0 1.667 1.333 1.0 0.667 0 (90-100%): (80-89%): (70-79%): (60-69%): (Below 60%): A AB+ B BC+ C CD+ D DF = = = = = = = = = = = = 5.0 4.667 4.333 4.0 3.667 3.333 3.0 2.667 2.333 2.0 2.667 0 Exceptional Achievement Above Average Achievement Average Achievement Below Average Achievement Unsatisfactory Achievement Minnesota State Tests: In addition to meeting course credit requirements, students at HCPA must complete two assessment requirements in order to earn a high school diploma. Refer to HCPA Testing in the Student Handbook. Hmong College Prep Academy has the right to evaluate each student’s individual credits. Our goal is to work with our students to ensure progress towards graduation. HCPA Graduation Requirements: Hmong College Prep Academy’s graduation requirements align with the Minnesota state high school graduation requirements. Embedded in our graduation requirements are common college entrance requirements. Starting with the Class of 2016, students must earn the following credits: HCPA Minimum Graduation Requirements: Hmong College Prep Academy’s graduation requirements align with the Minnesota state high school graduation requirements. Students must earn the following credits: English/Language Arts ............................ 4 years Social Studies ......................................... 4 years Math (up to Algebra 2 or its equivalent) .. 3 years Science (1 full year must be biology) ...... 3 years Health ..................................................... 1 semester Physical Education.................................. 1 semester Arts Elective ............................................ 1 year (dance, music, theater, visual arts and/or media arts) Other Electives........................................ 4 years = 12 credits = 12 credits = 9 credits = 9 credits = 1.5 credits = 1.5 credits = 3 credits = 12 credits 60 credits HCPA Recommended Courses to Fulfill Common College Entrance Requirements (college requirements may vary): English/Language Arts ............................ 4 years = 12 credits Social Studies ......................................... 4 years = 12 credits Math (preferably up to Calculus) ............. 4 years = 12 credits Science (1 full year must be biology) ...... 4 years = 12 credits Health ..................................................... 1 semester = 1.5 credits Physical Education.................................. 1 semester = 1.5 credits Arts Elective ............................................ 1 year = 3 credits (dance, music, theater, visual arts and/or media arts) Foreign Language .................................. 2 years = 6 credits (preferably of the same language) Hmong Language/Culture ....................... 2 years = 6 credits (or demonstrate proficiency on Hmong language exam) College Prep (C3) ................................... 4 years = 12 credits Credit value will change depending on the number of high school years enrolled at HCPA ________ 78 credits GRADUATION CEREMONY PARTICIPATION POLICY Ensuring students graduate on schedule is a top priority at Hmong College Prep Academy. Effective 20142015, in order to participate in the graduation ceremony, seniors must: HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 39 | P a g e Complete all credit requirements AND test requirements PRIOR to the last day of school for seniors. Any student who does not meet this requirement will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. Students will have the opportunity to complete course requirements during Summer School. Once all requirements have been met, the student will receive his/her diploma. If a student does not meet the above guideline, he/she will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. In either event, the student and parent(s) will be notified. 40 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | ATTENDANCE Classroom teachers will maintain student attendance records for each class period. Students who are late to school for any reason must check into the Main Office prior to attending class. HCPA believes that in order for learning to take place, the student must be in the classroom. If a student misses a class, it is up to that student to find out what work they missed and what the teacher's policy is on missed class work. TARDINESS Students will receive demerit points for being tardy to class. Please refer to the Merit/Demerit section in this handbook. Teachers may also have assignments given at the beginning of the class to those students who are punctual. Students who are tardy may miss out on these assignments. REPORTING ABSENT STUDENTS Regular attendance is important to ensure children will learn the skills necessary to be successful. Students are expected to be in school on a daily basis. If your child must miss school due to illness or other emergency, please call our main office or leave a voicemail at (651) 209-8002 before 7:30 AM, if the child is absent and the school has not been notified, the parent/guardian will be contacted. A student must bring a note back to school whenever they are absent. Please include the following on the note: o Child’s name o Child’s birthday o Date of absence o Reason for absence o Signature of parent or guardian and/or signature of physician o Contact # of parent/guardian and/or physician Parents/guardians have the responsibility to inform the school of the reason for any absence or tardiness. HCPA has the right to accept or deny parents’ requests for excused absences or tardiness. If the student is tardy due to a doctor/dentist appointment (preferably, appointments should be made outside of school hours), a physician referral slip must accompany the student upon their return to school. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 41 | P a g e The Lawful Reasons for Being Absent (Excused Absences) include (but are not limited to): 1) Illness (HCPA requires doctor verification or that the parent bring the child to the school to be seen by the school nurse for illness beyond 3 days); 2) Doctor or Dentist visit/mental health included (avoid school hours if possible); 3) Religious holidays when the school is notified in advance; 4) Funeral or other family emergency; 5) Family activity for up to 5 days when pre-arranged; or, 6) Transportation problems caused by failure of the Transportation System. Unlawful Excuses (Unexcused Absences) include (but are not limited to): 1) 2) 3) 4) Staying home to baby-sit or help out Oversleeping Missing the bus Waiting to change schools 5) Travel (unless pre-approved by school) 6) No reason given 7) Too cold School Sponsored Absences A missed class due to a school-sponsored event is an excused absence. Students who miss class for school-sponsored activities must make up the work for classes missed. These activities are usually scheduled well in advance and students should make every effort to inform their teachers and arrange make-up work with teachers. 1) Field Trips 4) Support Groups 2) Athletic Activities 5) Job-shadowing 3) Academic Activities/Events Family Trips Family trips are discouraged during the school year. Learning that is lost due to an absence can never be adequately replaced and can cause delays in graduating on time. If absolutely necessary, parent/guardian must give the office written notice up to one week in advance. The student is responsible for making up any missed work and completing a pre-arranged absence from the attendance office. Families play an important role in making sure students are in school. When excessive absences occur, the school will intervene. If the child continues to be absent after appropriate interventions, the school legally must complete a referral to county officials. The school reserves the right to require medical verification in cases where excused student absences are excessive. The following steps will be taken regarding excessive absences: A student will not be allowed to exceed 10 unexcused absences per year. 1) 3 unexcused absences: A warning letter will be sent to parents. For students residing in Ramsey County, a Truancy Intervention Program (TIP) referral will be made to the Ramsey County Attorney’s office. Other counties have similar programs. 2) 5 unexcused absences: Parents and student will be required to meet with the designated attendance personnel. 42 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 3) 7 unexcused absences: A petition will be filled out and forwarded to county officials. This could result in monetary fines, community service, out-of-the-home placement, etc. 4) 20 unexcused absences: Student will not be allowed to pass onto the next grade. Seniors will be putting their graduation status at risk. Each student will be evaluated on an individual basis to determine if they are eligible for exemption. DISMISSAL DURING THE SCHOOL DAY If a student becomes ill and needs to go home, s/he must report to the Health Office. If a student must be excused during the school day, the following procedures will be used: 1) Parent or guardian (or an individual who has been authorized in writing by the parent/guardian or direct verbal permission to school personnel) must sign the student out at the office. 2) Students leaving school early for any reason are not to be transported by school personnel to home, after-school daycare or other pre-determined areas unless a direct emergency warrants it. 3) School personnel will contact parent/guardian or emergency contact via phone, electronic means, or other forms of direct communication when student becomes sick or injured. 4) Where appropriate/applicable, siblings of a sick or injured student will be contacted by the office, if it is required that they leave school prior to dismissal. 5) Accident Reports are to be filled out and parents notified in a timely manner when injury warrants a phone call to the parent/guardian. 6) School personnel will assist students who are visibly upset on school property or during school hours/programs and notify parents and/or administration for support in resolving the problem in a reasonable and prudent manner. Students who are absent for all or part of any day may not attend or participate in any extra-curricular event or sporting event on that day or night except with written permission of the administration. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 43 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TRANSPORTATION Hmong College Prep Academy exercises safety in all aspects for the students. NON-SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION For students not using HCPA school transportation, the Drop Off/Pick Up Area is located at the end of the HCPA building by the First Student Parking Lot, next to the playground. Do not drop off or pick up your child in any other area besides the designated area. Students must first obtain a ride/pick-up pass from the Main Office if they are NOT riding the bus. It is important when dropping your child off at school that you make sure your child enters the school building or make sure a staff member is present to take the child into the school. Due to busing before and after school, it is critical that you watch for other students as well as any oncoming traffic. Building Playground BREWSTER STREET Parent Drop Off Staff/Guest Parking Lot N All students must travel or walk in groups. Under no circumstances should students walk between buses. If attended by a teacher, please make sure to follow safety instructions given by the teacher or staff. Please beware of bus danger zones! Stay with your group and teachers until instructed to board or descend the bus by the teacher or staff. In case of an emergency, please notify the Main Office immediately to call 911. 44 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION School transportation is a privilege, not a right. HCPA WILL TRANSPORT STUDENTS FROM ONE PICKUP AND ONE DROP-OFF LOCATION. ADDRESSES ARE DEFAULTED TO THE HOME ADDRESS UNLESS SPECIFIED (LIKE DAYCARE). Students must conform to established rules of behavior and regulations governing ridership. Failure to follow the driver's instructions will result in loss of school transportation privilege. Due process is provided to any student who is denied riding privileges due to a breach of conduct. Students who request for school transportation in the beginning of the year each have their designated transportation vehicle, pick-up & drop-off time and stop. Attendance is taken on the school-assigned transportation vehicle by school staff to 1) ensure students are on the correct vehicle, 2) the bus stop is verified and 3) students are dropped off straight to his/her home. No students are allowed on another school transportation vehicle other than the vehicle assigned in the beginning of the year. If there is a change of address, a parent or guardian must have a signed note to HCPA, indicating old address, new address, current phone number and if a bus is needed at new address. Transportation changes must be allowed 3 days for requests to be updated to new address. BUS PASSES If a student needs to ride another bus to a different destination other than home, HCPA needs direct written (and/or verbal) permission from only a parent or guardian stating what bus #, what bus stop, with whom and why the student is riding a different bus, along with parent signature and contact phone #. Permission notes and phone calls must be turned in and completed in the mornings before the school day begins. No bus passes will be distributed after school dismissal or as deemed by Office Personnel. TRANSPORTATION RULES AND REGULATIONS Transporting students safely to and from school is a priority of HCPA. In order to transport students safely, the State of Minnesota and HCPA have developed rules for riding school vehicles. Please take time to review these rules with your children before the first day of school so all students may ride safely: Students are expected to be at their stop ten (10) minutes prior to pick-up time. Vehicles cannot wait for students who are late. Students are expected to load promptly after school. Seven minutes are allowed for loading students. By law, students must remain in their seats at all times. Vehicles cannot start moving until all students are safe and buckled (if available) in their seats. All students’ feet should be on the floor, not on the seats. Students should not stand on the seats, nor stand or sit on the backs of seats. Eating or drinking is not allowed. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 45 | P a g e Keep arms, hands, elbows, and heads inside vehicle at all times. Do not shout inside or outside of vehicle. Throwing things outside windows is against the law. Do not destroy vehicle property. If there is damage of any sort, an investigation will be made and the student caught damaging property will be disciplined. In addition, the student will be required to pay for the damage or repair. If the driver assigns a seat to a disruptive student, the student must remain there until the driver gives the approval to move elsewhere. Failure to obey the driver is equivalent to disobeying a staff member. Students will be denied the school transportation privilege if disruptive behavior persists. Students should not stand on the steps or sit on the engine cover while vehicle is in motion. Vehicles will stop only at assigned and authorized stops. Please do not ask drivers to make exceptions. In order to ensure the safety of all students, the following items are not allowed on vehicles: o Animals (dead or alive), firearms, weapons, breakable containers, flammables, explosives of any type or any other article that could adversely affect the safety of the bus, bus driver and passengers. If any problems occur, a Student Conduct Report may be issued by the driver and will be forwarded to the Transportation Coordinator for further consequences involving parent contact and/or school transportation suspension and expulsion (also see Discipline Policies). Hmong College Prep Academy is not held accountable to follow up with changes of student address and phone numbers. It is the responsibility of students/parents to report any changes in contact information to the school. Please contact the Main Office immediately of any changes. 46 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | DRESS CODE DRESS CODE POLICY Enforcement of the dress code occurs every school day. All students must arrive at school in their uniform (i.e. no wearing street clothes to school then changing to uniform). Hmong College Prep Academy considers the dress code to reflect the importance of education, and; therefore, we take violations of the dress code policy as seriously as we would any school policy. Why Do We Have a Dress Code? When the school was first formed, it was decided a dress code would help establish a desirable learning environment. Research indicates that a dress code increases school safety by eliminating gangrelated clothing and recognizing non-students on campus. In addition, uniforms minimize peer pressure, improve the appearance of the student body, and reinforce an academic atmosphere. The parents and Academy’s experience from the first year of operation supported these conclusions, and so the dress code continues with minor changes. DRESSING FOR THE WEATHER Please be sure your child is dressed appropriately each day for the weather… i.e. hat, gloves and boots when snowing. We will need a note from home if your child is recovering from a bronchial/asthmatic condition that warrants staying inside. We appreciate your effort to assure your children dress accordingly to the dress code, as this system can only work with complete support by parents and consistent enforcement by Hmong College Prep Academy. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 47 | P a g e DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL STUDENTS To support a safe environment conducive to learning, the following standards of dress are required: ACCESSORIES o Rubber bands are not to be worn on wrists or ankles. o Hats, bandanas and du-rags are not permitted -- worn or displayed. o Purses, bags, backpacks and clutches are not allowed in classrooms (must be stored in locker before attending class). o Only blue/black messenger bag (eligible for students with a 3.0 or higher GPA) with Hmong College Prep Academy embroidery may be worn. BELT o Black leather or fabric belts with plain (no lettering and images) buckles o Belts must fit and be worn only in uniform pant loops o Belts are not to be worn over shirts o Belt-ends are to be no longer than 4” and tucked in HAIR o Clean and combed appearance. o Can be colored in natural human hair color o No designs of any kind are permitted to be in the hair or on the face. BODY ART/TATTOOS o No body art/tattoos are allowed, displayed or visible in any way. JEWELRY o No earrings permitted for boys. No large or hazardous earrings for girls. Girls are to wear only one pair of pierced earrings. o Absolutely, no other body piercing and/or tattoos are allowed to be displayed. Band-Aids covering piercings not allowed o No ankle bracelets. o Students are not allowed to wear dog collar-type jewelry, heavy chain or anything with sharp or hazardous points. SHOES o Black or white athletic or leather-style matching shoes and laces o Black dress shoes with no heels o No cowboy boots, open-toed or open-heeled shoes. TIES o Black, navy blue or red neckties are permitted, provided they are worn appropriately and in good taste. SWEATERS & VESTS o Navy V-necks with HCPA embroidery. o Navy blazer with HCPA embroidery. o Only the polo or button-down shirt may be worn underneath. 48 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL STUDENTS Shirt: Maroon (Dark Red) and/or White Polo Pants: Navy Blue and/or Khaki Sweater/Sweater Vest: Navy Blue PANTS o Straight-legged twill no more than four pockets, off the ground but to the ankle in length o No cargos, jeans, sweat pants and leggings. o Pant legs must be allowed to hang down correctly (i.e. not tucked into boots or shoes). o Pant legs are not allowed to be banded, tied or pushed up. o Pants must always be worn at waistline. SHIRTS o Long or short-sleeved polo or button-down shirt. o Undershirts must be black or white in color and tucked in. o Shirts must be tucked into pants. PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM REQUIREMENT All students taking physical education are required to wear appropriate athletic attire and shoes. HCPA gym shirts and shorts may be purchased accordingly with the P.E. teacher. All dress code requirements still apply. IN ALL CASES, clothing which display illegal products for minors (tobacco, snuff, marijuana, alcohol), obscenities, confrontational messages, suggestive statements or gang-related colors are inappropriate and are not tolerated or permitted at Hmong College Prep Academy. ALL STUDENTS SHALL PURCHASE THE CORRECT FITTED SIZE OF CLOTHING. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 49 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | SCHOOL DISCIPLINE Hmong College Prep Academy bans guns and other harmful weapons from all school premises. Any students who bring weapons of any sort to school will be subject to disciplinary action and possible expulsion from Hmong College Prep Academy district in consultation with the Board of Directors. Hmong College Prep Academy does not tolerate inappropriate behaviors that interfere with the environment that is conducive to teaching and learning at the school. These behaviors include but not limited to: Bringing weapons of any sort to school. The use of violent foul language at any time and toward anyone. Physical, emotional, and verbal assault or threat directed to other individuals. Disrespect for school properties, self, and other individuals. Refusal to follow directions and instruction given by Hmong College Prep Academy staff. Any other unsafe acts. PLEASE NOTE: Hmong College Prep Academy reserves the right to discipline students in conformity with the severity of the student’s behavior regardless of the student’s previous discipline history. Date, time, and specific nature of any above activities are electronically documented in the student’s database. The Hmong College Prep Academy’s Discipline Policy is a matter of public record. The policy information will be shared with staff/faculty, students, and parents. By enrolling your student with HCPA parents and students are acknowledging and adhering to the school’s discipline policy. 50 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | DISCIPLINE POLICY MERIT/DEMERIT SYSTEM Merits Merits will be given when students perform above and beyond in the areas of community, behavior, kindness or school upkeep. Some examples include: 1. Making the school look better 2. Helping tutor a fellow student. 3. Allowing adults the right of way on the sidewalk or hallway. Merits are never given when a student asks for one for himself or herself. Merits may result in a student being entered in a raffle for prizes or tickets, as a C3 group reward/contest and or special recognition. Demerits A student can be assigned from one (1) to four (4) demerit(s) for a rule infraction. Any infraction deserving more than four demerits, such as gross disrespect to staff or other students, results in the student being sent to the Dean of Students. A student will not be given demerits AND a consequence from the Dean of Students. The Non-Negotiable list of demerits: Offense Academic dishonesty, cheating, plagiarism Demerits 4 Dress code – non-fixable – black pants, jeans, wrong color shoes Electronic devices 4 Leaving class without permission (walking out) PDA – kissing, Late to class more than 3 minutes Late to class 1-3 minutes Late to class 1 second-1 minute Dress code – can be fixed – shirt not tucked in, earrings, rubber bands Disrespect Disruptive Behavior 4 1 4 2 1 1 4 Notes Automatic detention and parent phone call, zero on assignment Automatic detention Automatic detention Parent phone call Automatic detention Automatic detention Min 1 Min 1 HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 51 | P a g e HCPA has embraced PBIS this year to help support our students and staff. Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) is a preventative and proactive system that supports all student behaviors. PBIS is comprised of intervention practices and an organizational system implemented to support the following: Social culture Learning & Teaching Environment Individual Behaviors The PBIS system emphasizes prevention to establish a safe and supportive school climate, which promotes and enhances academic success. The foundation of PBIS is a set of school wide behavior expectations, which are outlined below. HCPA's PBIS Purpose Statement: The Warrior Code exists to promote and maintain a safe and productive learning community. Warrior Code: Respect Self Respect Others Respect Community Detentions/Demerit Cycles Anytime a student earns four demerits within a two-week period, he/she is issued a 1 ½-hour detention. If a student receives only one, two or three demerits within a two-week period, the demerits reset to zero and he/she will not be issued a detention. Detention is held on Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 to 4:30. Parents MUST pick up their students at 4:30 PM. Bus transportation is not provided for students with detention. Wednesday Support Wednesday’s will be reserved for afterschool homework help and tutoring. Sessions will be staffed by HCPA teachers who will be able to work one-on-one and in small groups to help the students. Parents will be contacted on Monday if their child is failing a class. It is an expectation that the student then attend the Wednesday tutoring session, or the family develops an alternate plan to address the failing grade. Tutoring sessions are also open to students who are passing classes, though they will be expected to bring material to work on. 52 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | DISCIPLINE POLICY All school rules and expectations apply anywhere on school property (leased or owned), on school bus, at bus loading/unloading areas or at any organized activity sponsored at or by Hmong College Prep Academy. Consequences shown are not necessarily sequential. Based on severity of rule violation, any consequence may be assigned; this list is not allinclusive. Administration may impose or recommend longer suspension, expulsion or any other discipline as appropriate on a case-by-case basis. VIOLATION Weapon (s) Drugs, Alcohol, Tobacco, or MoodAltering Substances Smoking DESCRIPTION CONSEQUENCE Possession, use and/or transmission of weapon(s) or any object that can be reasonably considered a weapon include: a knife, firearm and/or item that looks like a firearm whether loaded or unloaded in working or non-working condition; destructive explosives; any other device or instrument which is utilized in such a manner so as to threaten, intimidate or produce bodily harm or the fear of such as deemed inappropriate by staff/faculty. Notification of Police Notification of Parent Suspension or Expulsion OR ALL OF THE ABOVE If Harmful to Self or Others: Lockdown 911 Emergency Possession, use, and/or transmission, including being under the influence of any tobacco product (including electronic cigarettes); drugs which include any narcotic drug, controlled substance, hallucinogenic drug, inhalant, toxic substances; 'intoxicating beverages; any paraphernalia (including identifying markings) associated with the same controlled substances or intoxicating beverages, or any controlled substance or unauthorized use of prescription drugs as deemed inappropriate or unsafe by staff/faculty. Notification of Parent Suspension or Expulsion Referral to Outside Service for Treatment OR ALL OF THE ABOVE If Harmful to Self or Others: 911 Emergency 1st Offense: Parent Notification; Restitution 2nd Offense: Suspension and parent meeting 3rd Offense: Administration intervention to determine course of action Smoking on school grounds, having the smell of smoke on breath, clothes, or was in close proximity of a recently lit or vaped cigarette. **Electronic cigarettes are illegal on any school grounds in the state of Minnesota** Threat Against Persons Threat Against Property Verbal and/or nonverbal intimidation, abuse, or threats; stalking; obstruction; assault; fighting or posturing for fighting; extortion; bullying; racial harassment; harassment on the basis of disability; sexual harassment or violence; indecent exposure; and hazing. Tampering with unauthorized use of, removal of, damage to, or destruction of school property or the property of school personnel and/or others (even though ‘such an act and was accidental or a result of poor judgment); possession of stolen property; vandalism; trespassing; arson; theft; or robbery. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 Notification of Parent Suspension or Expulsion If Harmful to Self or Others: 911 Emergency Notification of Parent Suspension or Expulsion Restitution for Damage If Harmful to Self or Others: 911 Emergency Student must pay for any damage or repair. 53 | P a g e VIOLATION DESCRIPTION CONSEQUENCE School Policies or Educationally Disruptive Acts Classroom or non-classroom setting; disruptive inappropriate behavior and/or language, profanity, racial slurs; any behavior exerting disobedience, disrespect or ignorance of person(s), property, and/or class/school activity as deemed inappropriate by staff member. Warning Conference with Dean of Students Notification of Parent Additional offenses: Out of School Suspension Excessive Absences In compliance with Minnesota State Law, no student is allowed to exceed 10 unexcused absences per year. 3 unexcused absences: Warning letter sent to parents and the county notified. 5 unexcused absences: Parents and student must meet with the designated attendance personnel. 7 unexcused absences: Petition filled out and forwarded to Truancy Court. Academic Dishonesty Cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, obtaining an unfair advantage, aiding and abetting academic dishonesty, falsification of records and official documents and/or unauthorized access2 as deemed inappropriate by staff member Zero Credit on Assignment Conference with Dean of Students Notification of Parent, Suspension or Expulsion School Transportation Damaging vehicle property, bringing impermissible items on the vehicle, violations of persons, excessive tardiness, repetitive and disruptive behavior including failure to obey driver, not remaining seated or moving around, standing on seats or sitting on back of seats, eating and drinking, causing a mess, not keeping body parts inside the vehicle, shouting and/or throwing items out the windows. 1st Offense: Report forwarded to Transportation Coordinator- consequences vary 2nd Offense: Report forwarded to Dean of Students- consequences vary 3rd Offense: Notification of Parent Additional Offenses: Suspension or Expulsion from school transportation Student must pay for any vehicle damage or repair. Technology Transmission of any material in violation of any international, United States or state law is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyright materials; threatening, harassing, or obscene materials, and personal usage. Use of the Internet for commercial (for profit) activities or product advertisement is prohibited. Forgery of electronic mail messages, changing, files belonging to users and downloading of any files (i.e. movies, games, etc.) into the School District’s computers is prohibited. Violations of the law, through the use of the School District’s Internet access may result in disciplinary action or litigation against the offender by the proper authorities. Legal action will be taken to the fullest extent of the law. One or more days in-school and/or out-of-school suspension and/or community service Notification of parent Conference with Dean of Students and Technology Administrator Loss of total Internet usage for up to the remainder of the school year. Destroying or stealing results in a $2000.00 fee per damaged/stolen computer and software and immediate usage termination. 2 Definitions of each Academic Dishonesty violation can be found at http://www.northwestern.edu/uacc/defines.html 54 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 VIOLATION DESCRIPTION CONSEQUENCE Dress Code Any uniform that is not according to the Dress Code Requirements or deemed inappropriate by staff member is considered a dress code policy violation. Parents notified by phone to bring in their uniform. *If parent cannot bring in uniform, student must be picked up by parents. *If parent cannot bring in uniform and pick up the student, emergency contacts will be contacted to take student home. Continued violations will result in further consequences. NOTE: Hmong College Prep Academy does not loan uniforms. Electronic Devices No electronic devices are allowed during school or in class. Devices include any item, electronic in-form that is visible or inuse, such as but not limited to cellular phones, musical players or devices (Discmans, iPods etc.), electronic organizers, cameras, television or video cameras. If caught using during school hours or in class, the item will be confiscated and forwarded to the Dean of Students. 1st Offense: Automatic Detention 2nd Offense: Parent must pick up item. 3rd Offense: Item(s) will be confiscated until the end of the school year. If item is not retrieved by end of the school year, the item will be thrown out. Minor Violation Minor violation would be considered, but not limited to, action(s) that do not threaten the safety or well-being of the staff or students, does not cause a disruption in the educational process, or is one which is immediately corrected as requested by staff or faculty. If student refuses to obey staff request, the violation changes to insubordination and is handled according to that policy. 1st Offense: Staff/Faculty Verbal Warning 2nd Offense: Conference with Dean of Students 3rd Offense: Parent notification or suspension or both. Loitering Wandering in the hallways or disruptive and illegitimate presence in the Main Office, the Counselor’s Office, the Health Office, bathrooms, gymnasium, or classrooms. 1st Offense: Verbal warning and documentation. 2nd Offense: Referral to Dean of Students Vehicles on HCPA Premises Parked on Hmong College Prep Academy premises without proper permit 1st Offense: Written warning or depending on the situation, as decided by the Dean of Students and the Chief Operating Officer 2nd Offense: Fined $50 and parent notification 3rd Offense: Vehicle is no longer welcomed near Hmong College Prep Academy premises (will be towed at owner’s expense if it is in sight of Hmong College Prep Academy) and parent notification Electronic cigarettes, and other illegal items, will be confiscated and destroyed immediately. Any other confiscated items not retrieved by parent or student will be thrown away at the end of each school year. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 55 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TECHNOLOGY Student Users are Responsible for Their Own Actions. INTERNET/INTRANET USAGE Academic computer usage precedes all recreational computer usage. Student Internet usage is allowed only when a staff member is present and is willing to supervise the user directly. Internet usage may be terminated at any time by a supervisor, a teacher, an administrator or by action of the School Board. Community members may use Hmong College Prep Academy facility but only with supervision and only outside of the normal school hours. All internet activity is tracked, logged and available to administrators and/or the School Board for periodic review. INTERNET/INTRANET ETIQUETTE Use of HCPA’s Internet/Intranet access is a privilege, not a right. Use of HCPA’s Internet/Intranet is voluntary on the part of student, teachers, administrators, and the community. All users of HCPA’s computers and networks are expected to abide by accepted rules of network etiquette. The rules of acceptable behaviors are as follows: Personal information shall not be revealed. Unlawful information shall not be placed on any network system. Use of HCPA’s Internet/Intranet may be terminated without notice at any time. HCPA shall not be held liable for individual(s) actions on the Internet/Intranet. Use of the Internet/Intranet is for Hmong College Prep Academy academic purposes only. Inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to online chatting, personal emailing, viewing of inappropriate obscene sites, on-line message forums, on-line shopping. INAPPROPRIATE USE Illegal activity Specifically named violations in this policy Violation of HCPA regulations Other use that hampers the integrity of security of HCPA’s computer network or any computer networks connected to the Internet/Intranet Breaches can result in the denial of privileges, suspended, and/or expulsion. Transmission of any material in violation of any international, United States or state law is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to copyright materials, threatening, harassing, or obscene materials, and personal usage. Use of the Internet for commercial (for profit) activities or product advertisement is prohibited. Forgery of electronic mail messages, changing, files belonging to users and downloading of any files (i.e. movies, games, etc.) into HCPA’s computers is prohibited. INTERNET/INTRANET AND COMPUTER LAB USE POLICY It is the policy of the Hmong College Prep Academy to provide access to online resources and computer lab for students with the purpose of promoting the educational goals of HCPA. 56 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 Violation Consequences Transmission of any material in violation of any international, United States or state law is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to copyright materials, threatening, harassing, or obscene materials, and personal usage. Use of the Internet for commercial (for profit) activities or product advertisement is prohibited. Forgery of electronic mail messages, changing, files belonging to users and downloading of any files (i.e. movies, games, etc.) into HCPA’s computers is prohibited. Violations of the law, through the use of HCPA’s Internet access may result in disciplinary action or litigation against the offender by the proper authorities. School disciplinary action for will include by not limited to: First infraction – One day in school and/or possible out-of-school suspension Second infraction – Two days in school and/or possible out-of-school suspension Third infraction – Loss of total Internet usage for the remainder of the school year Appropriate administrative disciplinary action will be taken including expulsion Appropriate legal action may be taken PLEASE BE SURE TO SIGN AND TURN IN HANDBOOK AGREEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY USAGE AGREEMENT. HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 57 | P a g e HMONG COLLEGE PREP ACADEMY | TECHNOLOGY USAGE AGREEMENT I understand and will voluntarily abide by Hmong College Prep Academy’s policies on online resources and computer lab usage. I further understand that any violation of this agreement may result in the loss of access to online resources and the computer lab. School disciplinary action may be taken. I will make no attempt to access inappropriate material through school computers and personally-owned computers while on campus. Should I encounter embarrassing, obscene or lewd material, I will not display it to any other classmate or student. I understand that use of online resources and all computers are subject to monitoring by school officials. If I am provided in-class technology to use, I will abide by the technology policy and specific directions provided by my teacher. I will not use the technology for any other purposes than stated by my teacher or school administrator. If I am permitted to take any school-owned property home, I will use it for its intended purposes. I will not share the technology equipment with any other person. If damages occur, I will 1) immediately contact the Technology Department at techsupport@hcpak12.org, 2) will not try to fix the equipment and 3) promptly return the equipment to school. It is at the discretion of Hmong College Prep Academy to determine my financial obligation to replace or fix the equipment. Consequences for Destroying or Stealing of Technology/Computer Equipment (not limited to computer station, software, all hardware, etc.): Parent(s) and student agree to pay the school full price to replace the computer, laptop, software, and hardware up to $2000.00 per damaged computer and software. Student Name (Print Legibly) _____________________________________________________________ Student Birth Date ___________________________________________ Student Grade ______________ Street Address _________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ City State Zip code _______________________________________ _______________________________________ Home Phone Work Phone ______________________________________ Parent Name (Print Legibly) ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date ______________________________________ _______________________________________ Student Signature Date PLEASE RETURN SIGNED AGREEMENT PRIOR TO ATTENDING FIRST DAY OF CLASS. 58 | P a g e HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 NOTES HCPA Student Handbook - All rights reserved © 2014 59 | P a g e