Parent/Student
Handbook
2014 - 2015
1
Table of Contents
Vision Statement………………….………………………………………………………………. 3
Mission Statement ……………………………………………………………………………….. 3
The CIA Story ………………………………………………………………………………………. 3
Licensure and Insurance ……………………………………………………………………… 3
Curriculum ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
Faculty, Staff and Board of Directors …………………………………………………….. 4
Calendar ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 5
Student Records ………………….……………………………………………………………….. 6
Attendance and Tardiness...….……………………………………….……………………….. 6
Dismissal and School Closing …….……………………………………………………...…… 7
Communication ………………………….………………………………………………..……….. 8
Policies for Proper Behavior …..…….……………………………………………………….. 8
Disciplinary Action …………….………….……………………………………………….……. 11
Arrival and Departure …..…………………..………………………………………………….. 11
Volunteers ………………………………………..………………………….………………………. 11
Emergency Procedures, First Aid and Medication ……..…………………….….….. 12
Meals and Snacks ……….…………………………………………….………….…….…………. 12
Financial Assistance ……………………………………………………..…….…….…………… 13
Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls School Board …..………..…….….….. 13
Registration Form ……………………………………………………………...….…………..….. 14
Photo Release………………………………………………………………………………………… 15
Financial Responsibility………………………………………………………………………….. 16
Business Information and Disclaimer………………………………………………………. 17
Parental Agreement………………………………………………………………………………… 18
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Vision Statement
Our vision is to develop girls with confidence, resiliency and identity who will become
leaders in their families, communities and the world. Our school will:
● incorporate the use of integrative academics in all areas of study and to promote critical
thinking and problem solving
● stimulate girls with active and creative minds who are intellectually curious about the
world
● promote high expectations for success and to teach perseverance when faced with
challenges
● collaborate with parents and the community in the educational, social, emotional and
spiritual development of girls
Mission Statement
Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls (CIA for Girls) provides a healthy, safe, and
creative educational environment for girls who need an innovative means of instruction
that incorporates academics with social, physical and spiritual development.
The CIA Story
There's something about GIRLS.
The word means many things to many people: sometimes positive; sometimes intriguing;
sometimes scary, but never boring.
The founders of CIA know about girls. They know what girls need to develop confidence,
resiliency, and identity.
CIA founders who are educators noticed something missing at each stage of a girl's
development.
So, they decided to do SOMETHING. They founded Chesterfield Innovative Academy (CIA)
for Girls, the first school for girls in Chesterfield, Virginia.
Licensure and Insurance
CIA for Girls meets all Department of Social Services requirements for certification. Our
facility is inspected routinely by the Department of Health and the Fire Department. Our
facility meets the insurance coverage requirement for child care facilities in the State of
Virginia.
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Curriculum
The curriculum is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education.
This approach endeavors to connect pre-school aged children four to five years in age,
teachers and care-givers, which will allow them to be equal shareholders in the learning
process.
The core values of this approach are:
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The child will be an active participant in the learning
The environment will be rich with materials that will provide hands-on learning
The child, teacher and parent will be collaborators in the learning process
The learning will be visible
In addition to this innovative approach to education, the girls will be exposed daily to
music, art, and will participate in regular physical education. There will also be
appropriate rest and quiet time.
The number of students will be limited such that there is low student to teacher ratio.
Students will develop resilience, identity and confidence based on the relationship between
child, teacher and parents and as a result of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood
education.
Technology
Every student at Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls will receive technology
instruction at least once a week. All parents and students must read and sign the Internet
Use Policy form.
Faculty and Staff
Program Director ………………..………….………………………………………………….. Audrey D. Smith
Program Leader ……………………………………………………………………………………… Betty Walker
Teacher ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… Amy Snow
Board of Directors
Chair ……………………………………………………………………………………………… Dr. Tommye Finley
Vice Chair ………………………………..………………………………………………………………….. Julie Isman
Secretary ………………………………….……………………………………………………… Nathanael Rudney
Treasurer ………………………………………….……………………………………………………... Betty Walker
Melanie Friend…………………………………………………………………………………………………..Member
Dianne Mallory-Cobble……………………………………………………………………………………….Member
Marni Pilafian…………………………………………………………………………………………………..…Member
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Calendar
CIA Calendar is subject to change at the discretion of administration
at any time during the school year.
AUGUST 2014
1 – 15 Open registration
15 – 22 First month tuition
due
SEPTEMBER 2014
1 Holiday
2 First Day of School!
17 Back to School Night
OCTOBER 2014
31 End of the first nine
weeks
DECEMBER 2014
22 – 31 Winter break
JANUARY 2014
1 – 2 Winter break
5 Return to school!
19 Holiday
29 End of second nine
weeks/semester
30 Student holiday and
teacher workday
25 – 29 Teacher workdays
NOVEMBER 2014
3 Student holiday and
teacher workday
4 Student holiday and
parent-teacher conference
day
14 Evaluation, Assessment
and Documentation
27-28 Holiday
FEBRUARY 2015
13 Evaluation, Assessment
and Documentation
16 Holiday
MAY 2015
25 Holiday
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MARCH 2015
JUNE 2015
12 End of fourth nine weeks
and last day for students
12 Evaluation Assessment
and Documentation
APRIL 2015
2 End of third nine weeks
6 – 10 Spring break
16 Kindergarten registration
day
17 Evaluation, Assessment
and Documentation
JULY 2015
Office hours—registration
forms available for JK and K
programs
Student Records
Student records will be treated confidentially. Records and reports will be maintained for
two years following cessation of instruction.
The academy will require documentation that each child has received immunizations
required by the State Board of Health and that each child has received a physical
examination either prior to attendance or no later than one month after attendance.
Arrival and Departure
ONLY VERY SLOW SPEEDS (10-15 mph) ARE PERMISSIBLE ON THE SCHOOL GROUNDS
AT ANY TIME.
Please park in the parking lot and deliver your child to the entrance for sign-in at 7:30 and
repeat this process at 3:30 when you collect your child at 3:30.
Arrival Procedures
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Parents will sign in children at the front desk. The program leader or program
director will escort the child to the teacher in the classroom. The teacher will
remain with children in the classroom. The teacher will sign-in children on the
attendance sheet when they arrive to the classroom.
Children will not take field trips during 2014-15 school year. Any changes to that
policy for following years will be noted in the parent/student handbook and
employee handbook.
When a child is absent, a parent or guardian is required to call the school at 7:30 at
774-9414. Parents should notify the program leader (774-9421) if they will arrive
at school after 8:00 am.
Please sign-in at the front desk if you arrive after 8:00 a.m. Please remain with your child
until we come and escort her to the room.
Attendance and Tardiness
In order for Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls to adequately afford all children an
equal opportunity to learn, it is critical that all children to be present and arrive on time.
Attendance will be taken daily.
Students are to report to school at 7:30
Students will be signed in at the main entrance.
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Absences
When a child is absent, a parent or guardian is required to call the school at 7:30 at 7749414. A note from the parent or guardian stating the reason for absence can be sent to
school the next day.
If a child is sick in the morning, parents should not send him or her to school.
 Temperature over 101
 Recurrent vomiting or diarrhea
 A communicable disease
If a child becomes ill during the school day, the parent will be notified immediately
and the child should be picked up as soon as possible.
Visitors after 8:00 a.m.

Individuals entering the main entrance after 8:00 a.m. will be greeted by the
receptionist who will:
 Check purpose of visit.
 Require visitor or volunteer to sign-in on CIA for Girls’ clipboard.
 Call classroom and wait for CIA for Girls’ employee to escort them.
 Wears CIA for Girls visitor or volunteer badge.
 CIA for Girls’ employee will escort visitor or volunteer back to reception area.
 Visitor will sign-out.
Visitation by parents or guardians in child day programs
Per Code of Virginia, “A custodial parent or guardian shall be admitted to any child day
program. For purposes of this section, "child day program" is one in which a person or
organization has agreed to assume responsibility for the supervision, protection, and well-being
of a child under the age of thirteen for less than a twenty-four-hour period, regardless of whether
it is licensed. Such right of admission shall apply only while the child is in the child day
program.”
Dismissal Procedures
Dismissal is 3:30 p.m. Parents are not to enter the building to pick up their child before this
time (unless they have arranged for an early dismissal). Program leader and teacher will
escort children to the office area. Students will dismiss from this area. Parents will note
time of pick-up on the sign in/sign-out sheet. Parent pick-up can be a hectic time. Please
make sure parents note the time they picked-up the student. Teacher will note time on the
attendance sheet.
Collecting Your Child at the End of the Day
It is important to pick up your child on time at the end of the day. She will be excited to see
you and to discuss her day!
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If you are designating another adult to pick up your child at the end of the day, please
fill out the designated adult transportation form located in the office. Proper
identification will be required.
Students are dismissed at 3:30 (12:30 on early dismissal days).
There is a fifteen minute grace period. After 3:45 (or 12:45 on early dismissal days) there
will be a $10.00 fee at fifteen minute intervals. The fee will be due the day of the late pickup or on the following school day.
Early Dismissals
When it is necessary for a student to be dismissed early, a note from the parent or guardian
is necessary. Parents or guardians must stop at the office to sign out their child for early
dismissal. Office personnel will call to the classroom for the student to come to the office.
Parents are not to go to the classroom.
Appointments
Please do not schedule doctor or dentist appointments during school hours unless it is an
emergency. Please do not interrupt the school schedule by expecting to pick up your child
any time before 3:30. We do understand that things come up; however, this should be the
exception and not the norm. Please do not engage teachers in general/conference type
conversation during morning arrival time. Please schedule an appointment with your
child’s teacher. All parents/volunteers must report to the school office when entering the
building.
Emergency School Closing
When it is necessary to close school due to snow or other emergency conditions,
announcements will be broadcast over the local radio station WRVA -- 1140 AM or TV
channels 6, 8, and 12. Remember we will follow the closing announcements of
Chesterfield County Public Schools or specific announcements by CIA, which will also
participate in an emergency telephone notification system.
Communication
A strong cooperative communication system between directors, teachers, parents and
students is encouraged. A telephone call may clarify a concern and eliminate frustration.
Parents, teachers, or directors may request conferences whenever a need arises. Regularly
scheduled conferences are at report card times. If a parent would like to observe/help in a
classroom, please discuss this with your child’s teacher. All visitors must be approved
through the office. Conferences can be arranged between parents and teachers at any time.
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Parents please do not accompany your child to the classroom in the morning or
engage teachers in general-conference type conversation during the morning arrival
time. Teachers will be glad to schedule an appointment with you before the day
begins in the privacy of their classroom.
Communication
The school website will also contain links for forms and information about school closings,
events, and important dates, etc. The teachers will create a blog in which regular
communication about class news and progress can be discussed. Please check the blog-site
on a regular basis. The link to the site is located on the school web page:
http://www.chesterfieldinnovativeacademyforgirls.org/
Teachers and parents will use e-mail for confidentiality to discuss individual students and
any concerns.
Telephone
The telephone must be limited to educational and business purposes or emergencies that arise.
Please make all transportation arrangements, appointments, etc. ahead of time so a phone call
will not be necessary by child or parent.
Policies for Proper Behavior
Students of Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls are expected to maintain good
citizenship. Students are to display a cooperative attitude, respect the rights and opinions
of others, respect property, accept responsibility, show growth in self-control, and take
pride in personal appearance and actions.
In order for the student to achieve the above, parental involvement, support and respect of
all school policies is expected. Failure to do so may result in counseling or additional
actions. Teachers, parents, and students must work cooperatively to foster and maintain a
positive learning environment. Each classroom teacher will maintain a positive
environment for learning. Individual teachers will handle classroom discipline, firmly and
fairly. This includes general classroom management and behavior, assignments, etc.
Students are required to abide by all classroom rules. Disruptive student behavior is
subject to disciplinary action by the teacher, program leader or program director.
When enforcing the Student Code of Behavior, students and their property, including but
not limited to, backpacks, book bags, purses, other containers, desks, cell phones, PDA’s,
etc., may be searched.
Specific areas of concern are listed below. Appropriate disciplinary actions, in no particular
order, as listed below will be taken by the administration.
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 Substance abuse
Care of one's body by avoiding all harmful substances such as cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs
is expected. Possession of such harmful substances is prohibited and is grounds for
expulsion. All medication is to be kept in the school office.
 Dangerous objects and firearms
Each student who attends Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls has the right to learn
in a safe environment with others who respect their well being. The possession of any
dangerous object is prohibited. Weapons of any kind are prohibited and possession of such
items is grounds for expulsion.
 Disorderly Conduct/Disruptive Behavior
Students are expected to show growth in self-control and use non-violent techniques to
solve problems. Fighting (intentional hitting, scratching, shoving, biting, throwing of
objects, etc., is not permissible). Instigating fighting or conflicts (comments, actions, or
messages) is not permissible. Cursing, threatening, using abusive language, bullying,
teasing, hazing, or other acts of intimidation will not be tolerated.
Students are to demonstrate proper respect for self and others in words and actions.
Proper language is expected at all times. Inappropriate or abusive language (verbal or
written) is prohibited. Inappropriate literature, this includes diaries, is prohibited. Sexual
harassment or inappropriate sexual behavior is prohibited. Disrespect (walking away, etc.),
defiance (refusing to follow directions), disruptive behavior in classroom and excessive
talking, which interferes with the learning process, will not be tolerated.
 Electronic Devices
The use of any type of unauthorized electronic devices, such as smart phones, tablets,
iPods, etc. during the school day is prohibited and will result in confiscation. Personal cell
phones must not be used on school grounds unless there is an emergency. Cell phones
should be stored in a backpack.
 Integrity and Character
Students are expected to be honest, trustworthy, and respectful of themselves and others.
They will respect personal privacy and respect differences in culture, race, disability, and
sexual orientation and family backgrounds. In addition, students are expected to perform
honestly through the production of their own work. Lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism,
falsification, and unauthorized use of technology and information are prohibited.
 Vandalism
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Members of the Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls community are entitled to enjoy
property free from the abuse of others. Vandalism is the willful marring, defacing, or
destruction of school property. This includes the building (exterior and interior), books,
computer equipment and software, and school grounds. Causing, intent to cause or attempt
to cause damage to school or personal property of others is prohibited.
Technology and the Internet
Students should use technology and the Internet in an appropriate manner. Each student
and their parent or guardian is to read and return the signed Technology and Internet
Acceptable Use Policies & Contracts at the beginning of each school year.
Dress Code
The director may use discretion to review a student’s appearance and request
improvement with cooperation of the parent. At this time, there will no required uniform;
however, students must comply with the following dress code items:
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Parents need to label all clothing (iron-on labels, laundry pens, etc.)
Clothing should fit. No ill-fitting pants, shorts, or tops
Clothing should be clean
An extra set of clothing should be left in school in case of emergency. The clothing should
be in a bag labeled with the student’s name
Shoes should be comfortable and allow students appropriate movement. No open-toed
shoes or flip flops will be allowed
Hats are not allowed. The director may use discretion for religious articles or head pieces.
With the exception of stud earrings, jewelry is not allowed. Hoop or dangling earrings are
not allowed, as there is a possibility of injury. The school will not be responsible for lost,
misplaced, or broken jewelry items
Disciplinary Action
Our chief responsibility is to provide a safe and secure learning environment for each child.
Parents are expected to discuss the code of behavior and its consequences with their child.
The school and home must work together to provide strong discipline and a safe learning
environment for the school.
All staff will use non-punitive methods of discipline, and offer guidance in a positive
manner. Staff will be trained in the Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) to discipline. Core
values of the program are: 1) Neutralize negative behavior, 2) Energize positive behavior
in meaningful ways, 3) Demonstrate fair and consistent boundaries, 4) Corporal
punishment will not be practiced, 5) Collaborate with parents in behavior modifications for
children at home
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The appropriate disciplinary action, in no particular order, will be taken by the
administration to resolve issues of school discipline.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Student Conference
Contact parent (verbal and/or written)
Conference with parent, teacher, administration
Parent pick-up child immediately from school
Confiscation
Counseling
Mediation/Conflict Resolution
Home Suspension
Expulsion
Serious infractions, as deemed by the administration, may result in immediate expulsion
from the school. (An example of a serious infraction would be the possession of drugs or
weapons; endangering the safety of the school community and any of its members;
habitually violating the code of behavior.)
Students who are punished with a suspension will no longer be eligible for the
academic scholarships, or tuition assistance in the following school year.
Volunteers
Volunteers who work with minors in any capacity (school aides, field trip drivers, sports
coaches, classroom mothers, parents presenting to the group, etc.) are required to adhere
to a background check which is required by Virginia Child Protective Services. The
protection of all students is imperative to our faculty and staff.
Emergency Procedures, First Aid and Medication
Emergency Procedures
The Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls has an Emergency preparedness plan in
place. All standards for the state of Virginia and Chesterfield County will be followed. All
emergencies will be recorded. Fire drills will be conducted at regular intervals as required
by the State of Virginia.
First Aid
Staff members are trained in first aid and in procedures for administering CPR. First aid
kits are on the premises and will accompany the students on all field trips.
Medication
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Medication will be administered by the staff only with the written permission of a parent or
guardian. All prescription medication must be clearly labeled with the child’s name, the
name of the medication, the dosage amount and the time or times to be administered, side
effects, etc. Any non-prescription medication must be in the original container with the
direction label visible and labeled with the child’s name, dosage amount, and the time or
times to be administered, and side effects. Any student with known allergies that
require an Epi-Pen or Benadryl as an antidote must provide that medication to the
school office in case of emergency.
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
Sunscreen and insect repellent will be provided. If your child is allergic, please sign the
required form which releases her from application.
Meals and Snacks
Students are to bring a lunch to school each day. The lunch should be packed in an
insulated lunch bag containing an ice pack. The bag should be labeled with the child’s
name, and the date. When the lunch is packed, please be cognizant of common food
allergies (peanuts, for example). Healthful snacks will be provided during the day.
Students will wash hands prior to the consumption of lunch or any snack.
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance is available for students applying to the Chesterfield Innovative
Academy for Girls. Applications are available.
Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls Board of Directors
The Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls Board of Directors meets once a month. The
purpose of the Board meetings is to serve in an advisory capacity to administrate policy
consistent with state and county guidelines and directives for the operation of Chesterfield
Innovative Academy for Girls.
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Registration Form Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls 2014 – 2015
Child’s Name__________________________________________________________________________________
Nickname (if any) ____________________________________________________________________________
Sex: M
F
Date of Birth _____________________________________________
Parent/Guardian______________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian______________________________________________________________________________
Home Address _________________________________________________________________________________
Home Phone ______________________________________
Cell Phone _____________________________
Employer ______________________________________________________
Phone ____________________
Employer ______________________________________________________
Phone ____________________
Child’s Physician’s Name (s) _______________________________________ Phone ___________________
______________________________________ Phone ____________________
Name, Address and Phone number for emergency contact:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Allergies and intolerance to food, medication, or any other substances, and action to take in
an emergency
situation:______________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Any other physical problems that require special accommodations:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I have read and understand the guidelines set for the handbook for the Chesterfield
Innovate Academy for Girls
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________________________________________________
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Dear Parents,
During the school year, we will have many fun and exciting learning activities. We
would like to document these activities through photographs, online blog, and slide
presentations.
A classroom directory will be made available to parents upon completion of the signed
form. This information may not be used for solicitation of any kind.
If you have any questions, pleases contact me at 804-744-9414 or cia4girls@gmail.com.
Joyfully yours,
Audrey Smith
WEBSITE: chesterfieldinnovativeacademyforgirls.org
Photo Directory Release Form 20____-20____
Student’s Name:
____________________________Teacher:________________________
Parents’ Names: _____________________________________________________
I give____ do not give____ my permission for Chesterfield Innovative Academy for
Girls’ staff to take photos of my child while attending school. I understand that these
photos may be posted in articles submitted to the newspaper, on school bulletin boards,
on the school website, and in slide presentations at various school events.
I give____ do not give____ my permission for my child’s home information to be listed
in the directory that will be provided to classroom parents.
Parent’s Signature: ________________________________________________________
Date: _________________________________________________
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Acknowledgement of Financial Responsibility
To Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls
1. Tuition is a yearly amount which is payable in 10 equal monthly installments beginning
the first day of school in September. The yearly tuition amount for my child’s class is
$8,000. The monthly payment amount is $800.
2. I understand there is a $50.00 non-refundable registration fee and $20 art and activity
fee per student. A multiple child discount will be given on the lowest tuition of ONE (1)
child.
3. All tuition payments are due no later than the first (1st) day of each month or as stated
in the calendar located in your parent packet. Payments made after the 5th of each
month will incur a 10% penalty of the past due tuition amount.
4. Payments are to be made by check or money order only. NO CASH will be accepted.
Tuition checks are to be placed in the manila tuition envelope that you will receive each
month. Please note your child’s name and teacher in the memo section.
5. Any check returned for non-sufficient funds will be assessed a $50.00 fee in addition to
the fee charged by the bank.
6. If at any time of the school year a tuition account has to be referred to an attorney for
collection, applicable attorney fees of 33 1/3 % of the overdue amount, plus necessary
court costs, will be added to the overdue amount.
7. Tuition amounts are not prorated due to missed time for weather, child illness,
vacations, etc. or in the case of a scheduled teacher workday.
I hereby acknowledge the above information.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Print Name
Signature
_____________________________________
Date
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Business Information
School address:
2700 Bensley Commons Boulevard
Richmond, Virginia 23237
Mailing address:
P. O. Box 34070
North Chesterfield, VA 23234
Phone Numbers:
Audrey Smith, Director
804-744-9414
Betty Walker, Program Leader
804-744-9421
Amy Snow, Teacher
804-744-9421
Email:
cia4girls@gmail.com
Website:
Facebook:
Twitter:
chesterfieldinnovativeacademyforgirls.org
https://www.facebook.com/CIA4Girls
https://twitter.com/CIAforGirls
School Day:
7:30 am. To 3:30 p.m.
Calendar:
CIA for Girls’ calendar is the same as Chesterfield County Public Schools.
DISCLAIMER
The purpose of this handbook is to serve as a source of information and guide for parents, students, and
teachers of the school. Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls reserves the right to alter, amend, modify,
change, or terminate any of the policies in the handbook. The handbook is for informational purposes only
and is not intended to create, and it does not create a contract between you and Chesterfield Innovative
Academy for Girls.
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Parent Agreement
We have read the Chesterfield Innovative Academy for Girls handbook and agree to abide
by its policies and regulations. We have shared appropriate information with our child. We
will support the school through our communication, cooperation and involvement in
school activities.
_____________________________________________________
(Parent/Guardian Signature)
_______________________________ _________________________________
(Child’s Name)
Date
This form must be signed and returned before your child begins school. Please return with
all other forms.
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