Creating a community of learners, leaders and high achievers! HUDA SCHOOL & MONTESSORI PARENT-STUDENT HANDBOOK A guide to secure parent partnership in education Revised 2014 ______________________________________________________________________ 32220 Franklin Road Franklin, Michigan 48025 Phone: (248) 626-0900 Fax: (248) 626-7146 Visit us online at: www.hudaschool.org Notice of Non-Discrimination Policy Huda School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. Huda School and Montessori is a non-profit full-time independent institution dedication to excellence in education. In conjunction with fulfilling the requirements of the state curriculum, the school provides an Islamic educational environment to develop a mature Islamic personality by studying the basic principles and teachings of Islam as reflected in the Quran and Sunnah. Est. 1988 NCA Accredited and IB Candidate School The mission of Huda School is to inspire academic excellence; develop caring and responsible, Muslim American citizens; and cultivate intercultural understanding and respect. 2 Table of Contents Welcome Letter from Principal .................................................................................................... 4 2013-2014 School Schedule ............................................................................................................ 5 Admittance to the Building ............................................................................................................ 6 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 6 Governance of Huda School .......................................................................................................... 6 Program of Instruction .................................................................................................................. 8 Enrichment Activities..................................................................................................................... 9 Admission and Registration Policies and Procedures ............................................................... 10 Student Records ............................................................................................................................ 13 Release and Review of School Records ....................................................................................... 13 Academic Policies ......................................................................................................................... 14 Monitoring Academic Progress ................................................................................................... 15 Attendance Policy ......................................................................................................................... 22 Behavior and Discipline Policies ................................................................................................. 25 Progressive Discipline Process and Consequences .................................................................... 30 Library/ Media Center ................................................................................................................. 38 Search and Seizure ....................................................................................................................... 38 Lockers and Locker Contents ..................................................................................................... 39 Dress Code..................................................................................................................................... 40 School Cell Phone Policy .............................................................................................................. 42 Health and Safety ......................................................................................................................... 43 Safety and Security ....................................................................................................................... 45 Emergency Procedures ................................................................................................................ 47 Student Services ............................................................................................................................ 48 3 Dear Parents and Students, Welcome to Huda School and Montessori! On behalf of the administrative leadership team and staff, I would like to present to you this revised Parent/Student Handbook. This handbook is intended to be informative. It sets out with the Huda School Philosophy and fully articulates our school’s mission, vision, and expectations. It also provides you with the policies, procedures, calendar, schedule, discipline plan and other pertinent information related to Huda School for the school year. An effective school is based upon meeting the academic, social and emotional needs of our students. At Huda School, we advocate for every child’s needs by creating a community of learning, engaging families in the educational process and providing a common set of expectations. Hence, this handbook is designed to make you aware of procedures that enable us to promote a safe positive and productive school environment dedicated to mutual respect and learning opportunities for students, staff and parents. A student’s enrollment at Huda School is an expression of agreement on his/her part and the part of his/her parent(s) or guardian (s) to support the school’s philosophy, observe the guidelines included in the book and meet all financial obligations to the school. The school reserves the right to amend this handbook at any time. Parents and students will be notified via an addendum by the school of any amendments or changes. I encourage you to read the handbook and discuss pertinent information with your child. Please be sure to read the parent/student contract enclosed and sign the form. I pray that all members of our school community have a blessed year, Inshallah. Thank you for selecting Huda as a place for your child. Sincerely, Azra Ali Azra Ali Principal 4 2013-2014 SCHOOL SCHEDULE The school calendar shall comply with the minimum requirements set forth in Section 101 of the State School Act of 1979, being MCL 388.1701of the Michigan Complied Laws. School shall commence on September 4, 2012 and conclude 170 school days or (1190 hours) later. The school week will be Monday through Friday, with the exception of the holidays and vacation days. The school year will consist of four nine-week grading periods. Near the middle of each grading period, teachers will meet parents for parent-teacher conferences. DAILY SCHOOL SCHEDULE Monday - Friday Arrival time: 8:00 a.m. Assembly: 8:07 a.m. Homeroom: 8:20 a.m. Note: Grade 1-8 Student is considered tardy after 8:07 a.m. Students who arrive after 8:07 to the building will be directed to the Masjid. In the Masjid students will be provided an opportunity to make morning duaa. Students will be considered tardy once they are directed to the Masjid. Please note that five consecutive tardies in a marking period will result in an after-school detention. All students will have a clean slate each marking period! After-school detentions will be supervised by a Huda Staff Member and parents will be provided ample notice prior to the detention. Students who do not report to the detention will be provided a second and third notice to make-up the detention. After the third notice, student will be suspended for one school day and parent meeting will be held. Lunch/Recess Schedule: 11:50a.m.-12:33p.m. Dismissal time: 3:40 p.m. All students must be picked up by 4:00p.m. Students who are not picked by 4p.m. will be sent to Kids Zone, our Latch-Key Service. Parents will be responsible for the charges incurred for after-school care services. Extended Care Available: Before/After School A late pick-up fee of $5.00 per child per five minutes (or a fraction thereof) will be assessed to any students picked up after 4:00 pm. The late pick-up fee is payable at the time of late pick-up or will be added to the student’s tuition account. We offer a Latch-Key Program from 4:00 P.M- 6:30 PM, please request a registration form from office for more details. Before-Care Starts at 7:15a.m. and ends by 7:50a.m. ADMITTANCE TO THE BUILDING Students must enter by the designated door(s) only. Students are to be permitted in the building before school starts in cases of inclement weather. Students are not to leave the school building during the school day unless accompanied by a teacher, administrator, authorized staff person or parent/guardian. Office hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. School hours: 8:05 a.m. – 3:40 p.m. 5 INTRODUCTION Philosophy The primary goal of Huda School is to assist in the development of a successful and trustworthy citizen, who will in turn become a positive and productive participant in a multicultural society. In addition to providing knowledge and skills for the learning experience of the students, we hope to prepare each student for a life or purity and sincerity. Therefore, our ultimate goal at Huda school is to build individual character based on the divine source of discipline and knowledge adapted from the Quran and exemplified by the practices of the blessed messenger of Allah, Mohammad (peace be upon him). We are dedicated to providing a loving and trusting environment conducive to Islamic beliefs and values. Islamic rules of conduct allow for a quality education and excellence in academic achievement. Through this trusting and supportive learning environment, we hope to nurture the growth of each student into a well-rounded and honorable individual. Our commitment includes providing the following: 1. 2. 3. Meaningful knowledge, essential skills and positive learning experience Personal growth: morally, spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically Preparing students to become responsive and active members of a health family, community, and country The heart of this learning process is a combination of the parents’ role as the primary educator in partnership with the school. In addition, the utilization of the Muslim community as a learning resource enables the students to further realize the values and integrity of Islamic beliefs and practices. By working together in mutual understanding toward a common and noble goal in an Islamic atmosphere with trust and respect, we will ensure our students’ success both now and in the future inshAllah. GOVERNANCE OF HUDA SCHOOL Huda School has been in existence as an independent, non-profit private educational institution since 1988. It is governed by the Board of Trustees which consists of 9-12 members. These members are appointed for staggered terms over a five year cycle; three years into the cycle, two Board members are appointed and five years in the cycle three Board members are appointed. The cycle is repeated at its five- year anniversary. There are no elections for the Board. The following criteria are used by the active Board of Trustees for the appointment of the permanent and non-permanent seats on the Board of Trustees: 1. 2. 3. Soliciting recommendations from the Muslim communities involved in the school. Selecting individuals with recognized interest and expertise in Islamic and educational activities. Selecting individuals with good standing within their communities. Members nominated for the Board should have preferably served on the Executive Committee and/or active in the local Muslim community and committed to Islamic education. The Board of Trustees, in turn, appoint a seven member Executive Committee to run the school. These members are appointed for a two year term, and may be re-elected to serve an additional term; however, Executive Committee members may only serve a maximum of four consecutive years. History Huda School was founded in 1988 by a group of concerned Muslim leaders and parents in order to educate their children in an environment where they can maintain their Islamic dignity and character and to help them grow in Islamic traditions and values. 6 Huda School serves children of Muslim families representing many diverse ethnic backgrounds. The school began its first full academic year with 48 Preschool through 4th grade students, and now has over 300 students from Preschool through 8th grade. Motto Dream! Believe! Achieve! Vision Create a community of learners, leaders and high achievers Mission Statement The mission of Huda School is to inspire academic excellence; develop caring and responsible Muslim American citizens; and cultivate intercultural understanding and respect. IB Learner Profile: The aim of all IB programs is to develop internationally minded people, who, recognizing our common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. IB learners strive to be: Inquirers: Students develop their natural curiosity. They acquire skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and the love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives. Knowledgeable: Students explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of subjects. Thinkers: Students exercise initiative in applying skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions. Communicators: Students understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others. Principled: Students act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice, and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and consequences that accompany them. Open-Minded: They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values, and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience. Caring: Students show empathy, compassion, and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment. Risk-Takers: They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs. Balanced: Students understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others. 7 Reflective: They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development. PROGRAM OF INSTRUCTION Islamic Education Program Since Islam is the complete code of life, Islamic education prepares students to be a complete successful person in this life and the life hereafter. In order to give a proper understanding of Islam, the Islamic Education Program strives to nurture and deepen the faith of its students in Allah and the Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him), through study, example, and practice. Children learn about Islamic values and virtues under the guidance of teachers who share these values and in the company of children who share these goals. Along with academic excellence, Huda School strongly emphasizes Islamic education and the study of the Arabic language to develop a strong Muslim identity in each student. As part of the Islamic Education Program, students are taught Quran, Hadith, Seerah, Fiqh, Tawheed and Islamic manners and morals. Huda School students benefit daily from directed Wudu and Salah as a whole school activity. On Fridays, students participate in Juma’ Salah, which provides endless lessons for the Islamic way of life. Inshallah, through the Islamic education at Huda School and parental guidance, students will posses an unwavering love for our religion. Toddler and Pre-school Montessori Program Pre-school is the most important stage in a child’s life to lay the foundation for formal schooling and social development. The Pre-school program has been developed to follow the Montessori methods in which the emphasis is on the child. The system is noncompetitive and is structured in such a way that each child is allowed to develop at his/her own pace under the guidance of the teacher. Elementary Program The Elementary Program (KG-5th Grade) is a challenging system designed to provide a solid foundation for a child’s future learning. Beginning in Kindergarten, students are instructed in a wide variety of academic subjects including: Reading, Phonics, Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies (History, Geography, and Civics), and Science. They also enjoy Physical Education, Art, and Computer classes. By mastering these subjects, students are prepared for higher education, constructive citizenship, and lifelong learning. As part of our commitment to maintaining the highest academic standards, the school concentrates on developing high literacy and academic performance in its students. The teacher/ student ratio allows the school to offer enough individualized instruction, which in turn ensures the student’s academic success. Our teachers provide differentiated instruction to meet the needs of students at all levels. As a result of this individualized attention, students are given the opportunity to develop to their full academic potential. We are constantly updating our academic curriculum which is based upon the state benchmarks known as GLCEs (Grade Level Content Expectations). Middle School Program The sixth, seventh, and eighth grade curriculum is designed to help students mature in thinking and academic performance. Emphasis is placed on individual learning, and developing intellectual curiosity. The curriculum is designed to meet the students’ needs. Every student is required to study Language Arts, Science, Mathematics (including Pre-Algebra and Algebra), Social Studies, Islamic Studies, Quran, and Arabic. Students also benefit from classes in Physical Education, Art, and Computer studies including typing, word processing, graphics, and spreadsheets. Both the academic subjects and Islamic Education subjects focus on developing the students’ critical thinking skills and encouraging independent thinking. 8 Students are taught to examine their lives from an Islamic perspective and understand their role as Muslims. Accreditation Alhamdulilah, Huda School and Montessori is fully accredited with the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCA). This prestigious NCA recognition demonstrates Huda School’s commitment to high standards and continuous school improvement. Huda School is an IB accredited school. This is an international recognition provided to schools that embrace the IBO methodologies, curriculum framework and instructional strategies. ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES Extra-Curricular Activities National Junior Honor Society, Math Pentathlon, Sports Club, Islamic girls/boys Club, MS Basketball Team, Chess Club, Middle School Student Council, Elementary Student Council, Future Problem-Solving Club, Science Olympiad, Student Newspaper, Yearbook Club, MS Track AFTER SCHOOL “ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES” We are pleased to announce our slate of Enrichment Activities offered to our students at Huda School. We thank our staff for their commitment to student involvement and success. We also thank our parent volunteers who help to make these activities happen for our students. Activities may vary from year to year contingent upon student interest and staff expertise. Enrichment activities give our students opportunities for the following: extending the curriculum (differentiating), leadership, problem-solving/critical thinking, team-building (making new friends), and increasing school spirit/pride. “Community Service” helps to develop the FIVE C’S: character, commitment, caring, community, and career. We welcome other parents who wish to share their talents with our students especially in the areas of science and math. If you’re interested in sharing your “gifts” with our students, please call 248-626-0900 or email azra.ali@hudaschoool.org Activities SPORTS CLUB (Grades 2-5) BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM (MS) GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM (MS) GIRLS/BOYS VOLLEYBALL (MS) TRACK TEAM (MS) STUDENT COUNCIL (MS) STUDENT COUNCIL (Elementary) HUDA SCHOOL NEWSPAPER YEARBOOK CLUB JUNIOR NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY CHESS WIZARD (K-8) COMMUNITY SERVICE CLUB (MS) BOOK CLUB ENVIRONMENTAL/GREEN CLUB MATH CLUB ISLAMIC GIRLS CLUB 9 HOMEWORK HELP PEER MEDIATION RECYCLING DRAMA CLUB QURAN/ARABIC TUTORING MATH PENTATHALON SOCCER SPANISH CLUB Field Trips Teachers schedule field trips to extend the students’ learning experience outside of the classroom. Academic Competitions Science Fair, Quran Competition, Spelling Bee, Islamic Studies Knowledge Bowl, Academic Scholastic Challenge, Math Counts, Michigan Math League, Geography Bee ADMISSION & REGISTRATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Huda School was established to provide educational services to children of Muslim families residing in the Detroit Metropolitan area and surrounding cities who wish to study Islam and the Arabic language in an academically challenging environment. Huda School respects the dignity of the students as well as the students’ right to an education in an Islamic school. It is operated on a nondiscriminatory basis, according equal treatment and access to services without regard to race, religion, color, or national origin. While education is provided from an Islamic perspective, children of any religion may be admitted. Islamic Education is an integral part of the school curriculum and program, and is required of all students. Where admittance is concerned, Muslim children will be given first priority because of their essential need for an Islamic education. Minimum standards for admission to each grade shall be applied to all student applicants. Huda School is not equipped or staffed to provide services for students who have special needs or require special educational methods or systems. We reserve the right to deny admission to any child whose needs we do not have the ability and/or resources to meet, or whose parents are motivated by concerns not consistent with the goals or policies of Huda School. If this is determined, parents will be requested to place the child in a school elsewhere, or will be denied admission. Any students experiencing extreme learning difficulties, very poor attendance, or serious behavioral problems will not be allowed to continue in the school. New students will be on probation for their first 60 days. Enrollment is not considered final until previous school records are received. Registration for new students begins in April of each year at the Annual Open House. New students may also be accepted for admission throughout the school year, if class size permits. Any applicant interested in registering at Huda School, may contact the school office to receive and review an information packet which includes the philosophy of Huda School, its goals, description of educational programs, and services available. This packet also clearly defines the standards for admission, and the necessary forms and instructions to apply for admission. The administration will review all materials and documents submitted by applicants wishing to attend Huda School. The Principal will make the final admission decision. 10 Documents Needed With Application An application for admission must include the following documents: 1- A copy of the student’s birth certificate or passport documentation verifying age 2- Transcripts and School Records: Official transcripts and school records from the school the students previously attended. It is assumed that report cards/ school records will indicate the student’s level of achievement, successful completion of previous grades, and ranking on nationally administered standardized achievement tests, if taken. Minimum Age Requirements Toddler Care: A child must be 18months of age upon entry in the program. Prekindergarten 1: A child must turn 3 years old by January 1st of the school-year and potty trained. A child may repeat Preschool 1, if he/she does not meet the age requirements needed to be promoted to Preschool 2. Prekindergarten 2: A child must turn 4 years old by January 1st of the school-year in which admittance is requested. Kindergarten: A child must turn 5 years old by January 1st of the school year in which admittance is requested. Entrance Testing All applicants are required to take an entrance test. An informal readiness test is given to students entering Kindergarten. All other students should register to take the Stanford Achievement Test which is an entrance test on a date previously scheduled by the office. A writing sample will be required from students seeking admission in grades 6th, 7th, and 8th. Visit to Huda School Prospective students are welcome to visit Huda School with their parents at a time pre-arranged through the office. Enrollment Process Upon acceptance, the parent shall visit the school office to complete the enrollment procedure. Documents Needed for Enrollment The following documents are needed for completion of the enrollment process: 1. A physician’s report (Michigan Department of Public Health- Health Appraisal Form) of a physical examination conducted within the last 30 days which includes a record of all immunizations. If the student requires medication while in school, a completed Short-term Medical Treatment Form is required. 2. An Emergency Card: The card must be complete before the child can be registered in the school. It is essential that we have the parents’ work numbers, cellular phone numbers, and an emergency contact number. Huda School must be notified immediately if there is a change to any of the aforementioned phone numbers. All information is kept confidential. 3. Two photographs of the student. 4. Signed Tuition Agreement. 5. Payment of the required dues according to the school’s tuition plan. 6. Acceptance of Parent- Student Handbook Re-enrollment and Tuition Deposits Students presently enrolled in Huda School are given first opportunity to re-enroll for the next school year. Re-enrollment is not automatic. These students must be registered in the office no later than April 15th, to ensure a spot for the following school year. Pre-payment must be made for the next school year according to the Tuition Plan. A $700 advance payment is required of each re-enrolling student. This fee is required 11 to reserve a place for the student in the school and is applied towards the tuition and materials fee for the coming school year. This fee is non-refundable. Tuition and Fees Policy Huda School is a private Islamic school and is not associated with any other institution or organization. Therefore, the only means of financing the school’s operations is to charge tuition, fees, receive donations, and conduct fundraising events. Tuition rates are determined by taking into account the operating and building expenses and the cost of equipment and instructional supplies. There are discounts in tuition depending on the number of children enrolling from the same family in the same school year. The following are non-refundable fees: A. Application Fee (new students only) B. Registration Fee (new students only) C. Materials Fee (returning and new students) D. Entrance Exam Fees $50 $100 $350 $30 Payment Plans A non-refundable advance payment of $530 is due at registration. $350 of this will be applied towards the Material Fee with the balance going towards tuition. All tuition payments must be paid when due. See Payment Plan Agreement in your admission packet. For your convenience, there will be four payment plans available to you as outlined below (due on the 1st of the month): Option 1: Full payment made in September Option 2: Two installment payments (September and January) Option 3: Four installment payments (September, November, January, March) Option 4: Nine installment payments (Each month from September to May) Payment Policy For all students, a current Enrollment Agreement and Tuition Payment Plan must be filled out and signed on the day of registration to finalize the registration. Timely payment of tuition is essential for the smooth operation of the school. A late charge of $50 will be added for payments received after the 5th day of each month in which they are due. If you are assessed a late charge more than twice in the school year, your child will be subject to dismissal. Payments are to be made by check, money order, credit card or cashier’s check. Payments made in person must be taken to the school office between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. Delinquent Accounts An overdue account becomes delinquent after 30 days. A delinquent account will result in the following consequences: Children will not be allowed to attend school until their tuition account is paid or a specific arrangement and agreement is reached in writing, between the Principal and the parents. If such an arrangement is still not reached, all transcripts, report cards, test results and other necessary documentation will not be released or transferred to any school until all delinquent fees and tuition have been settled in full. There will be a review of all accounts at the end of each semester in each academic year, and admission may be denied for students with delinquent accounts. All outstanding accounts from a previous year must 12 be paid in full before a student will be permitted to re-enroll for the following year. Delinquent accounts will be subject to collection agencies. Returned Checks Checks which are returned by the bank for non-sufficient funds or account closed are expected to be replaced immediately with a $30 service charge. If these funds are not replaced within 5 working days, payments for the year may be required to be by money order or cashier’s check. Financial Aid Huda School recognizes that education is vital. InshAllah, efforts will be made to waive part of the tuition for those families who have difficulty paying the full amount. Parents need to bear in mind that the source of most of our financial aid is collected from the donations from the community. Since the fund is limited, very few children may qualify for this aid. A new application for financial aid must be filled out each academic year starting in April of the previous academic year, through August. Class Placement All Huda School teachers are outstanding. Regardless which classroom a student is assigned to, he/she will receive an excellent education and support from one of our teachers. Each teacher follows the same curriculum and we try to match the learning style with teaching style. All of our teachers individualize instruction and differentiate to meet the needs of our students. It is the Administration’s goal to ensure every class is balanced in regards to the following factors: 1. Number of students 2. Boy/Girl ratio 3. Student achievement abilities 4. Ethnicity 5. Minimal discipline problems In addition to the above factors, recommendations for class placement are also given by the student’s previous teacher, school counselor, and administration. Student Records The school records of all students will be kept confidential and will be maintained on-site at the school. The parents/guardians of students are entitled to review their child's school records upon a written request and in the presence of school staff. In situations where the parent of a student is divorced or separated, each parent, custodial and/or non-custodial, has an equal right to view the child's records unless a court order specifies otherwise. Personal school records will not be furnished to any other person (except school staff) unless there is written consent from the student's parents or from a student who has reached the age of majority. Release request forms are available in Office. Parents will be asked to sign a Transfer of Records Release form so that the school can obtain a copy of their child(ren)'s student records from all previous schools attended. This will help the school learn more about the specific educational needs of our students. Release and Review of School Records Public Law 93-380 Parents shall have complete access to all school records pertaining to their child. Parents wishing to review their student’s records must notify the school office. Necessary arrangements will then be made. Personal school records will not be furnished to any other person (except school staff) unless there is written consent from the student’s parents. 13 ACADEMIC POLICIES Homework Policy Homework serves as an important purpose in your child’s school life. It is designed to meet the need of the student. It is a means of reviewing and reinforcing the lessons taught in school, and a way to help your child develop essential skills and study habits. Please follow teachers’ guidelines for homework. The purpose of homework is to be used to: Reinforce and extend classroom learning. Provide enrichment or remediation. Develop self-learning by providing an opportunity to practice any lessons learned in the classroom. Train students to work independently, and to accept responsibility for completing a task. To establish consistent work habits, punctuality, and creativity outside of the classroom. Middle School Homework Policy Students will be responsible for: 1. All homework assignments must be written in the Student Planner. Teachers will check the planners periodically to make sure they are being kept up to date. . 2. Completing work assignments and returning them on time to the teacher. 3. Submitted work must be neat and reflect careful attention to detail and quality. 4. Homework should not be completed during other classes. 5. Homework must be turned in at the beginning of the class period to be considered on time. Homework is an essential part of education. If the student fails to complete the assigned homework, the student may be subject to the following disciplinary actions given at the discretion of the classroom teacher, for example, loss of points, loss of credit, detention, Saturday detention, etc. A copy of each teacher’s classroom rules regarding homework will be posted in their classrooms and also be available in the office. All school teachers will require identical homework paper headings written in the upper right hand corner of the paper: Your Name The Date The Class Period The Assignment Late Homework Policy (3rd -8th Grade) In an effort to encourage students to respect deadlines and develop self-discipline the following late homework policy will be enforced: 1 day late: 80% Credit student sent to recess detention to complete assignment. 2 days late: 60% Credit; student sent to recess detention and parent contacted. More than 2 days late-- students receive one week from date of initial due date to turn in the assignment for maximum of 40% credit. Students who do not turn-in assignments even after parent contact initiation will receive a “zero” for that assignment. Disciplinary action to be taken for students who have chronic issues with meeting deadlines for homework: First Offense: Teacher handles situation/Parents notified Second Offense: Teacher handles situation/Parents notified/Student must make up the homework while at school Third Offense: Student sent to Counselor with referral 14 Fourth Offense: Meeting with all parties involved: Parent, Teacher, Counselor, Principal and Student. Make-Up Work Students will have one day for each day of absence to make up the missed work. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain the missing assignments from the teacher. Middle School students will follow the respective teacher’s guidelines for make-up assignments. Incompletes When an incomplete is given instead of a mark, the student must complete the work and receive a grade within two weeks after the end of the marking period. Student Planner All students in Grades 2-8 are to have student planner with them every school day. This keeps students organized and helps on a daily basis to prevent the student's forgetfulness. student planner are provided free of charge to all students in grades 2nd-8th. Materials Students are expected to have materials, such as books, notebooks, and sharpened pencils, or pens, at the beginning of every class. Detentions may be given or points deducted for not having expected materials. Student must carry a student planner with them at all time. MONITORING ACADEMIC PROGRESS Edline Edline is an internet-based tool that allows parents, students, and schools to communicate important information including school announcements and updates on individual student achievement. In 2007, Huda implemented this service in an effort to improve the efficiency of communications and save substantial costs related to duplications and postage. Edline’s Up-to-Date Grade Tracking System Parents can utilize the Edline communication services to monitor the progress of their child’s grades in the class. All information in the grade book will be updated by the teacher on a weekly basis. It is the ultimate responsibility of the parents to check Edline on a weekly basis. Formal Progress Reports Huda School believes that it is important to keep parents/guardians informed of their child(ren)'s progress in school. Therefore, we will send out progress reports by the middle of each quarter, which will contain teacher comments as to how your child is doing, what they need to work on and what they are succeeding at. In addition, there will also be Parent-Teacher conferences in the middle of the marking period. It is important that you contact your child(ren)'s teacher(s) if you ever have a question about the Progress Report or want to discuss with the teacher how you might better assist your child(ren) in achieving the expected performance standards for their age and/or grade level. Report Cards Huda School will report each student's progress by utilizing a Standards Based Report Card, four times during the school year. The Report Card must be signed by one or both parents/guardians. This can be done during the Parent/Teacher Conferences. If a parent/guardian is unable to attend the Parent/Teacher Conference, the Report Card will be mailed home unless the student earned unsatisfactory or failing grades. 15 The Principal will hold report cards of these students. Parents are required to meet with the Principal and the teacher(s) who reported unsatisfactory or failing grades. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to sign and return the Report Card no later than seven (7) days after receiving it in the mail. Huda School will make every effort to ensure the integrity of our reporting system. Teachers will verify all grades prior to distribution; however, it is an ultimate responsibility of the parent to report any inconsistencies (miscalculations, typos, and/or deviations) in grading to the Principal within 30 days of receipt of the report card. Comprehensive Examination All Middle School students will take a comprehensive exam at the end of each semester. Students will be provided with a comprehensive study guide Standardized Tests In addition to the regular tests and examinations in each class, the school also administers three standard tests each year. 1. Michigan Education Assessment Program (MEAP) The MEAP provides information on the skill levels of children and helps teachers plan group and individual instruction. The MEAP tests are administered to all students in 3rd- 8th grade and are tested in Reading, and Math. In addition to these subjects, 5th and 8th grade students are tested in Science, and 7th grade students are tested in Social Studies. 2. SCANTRON Diagnostic Assessment Also, the Performance Series Scantron Test (a computerized test program) is administered two times a year in the areas of reading, language arts, science and mathematics. 3rd, 4th , and 8th grade will be tested in reading and math; 5th through 7th grade will be tested in reading, math and science. 3. Reading and Writing Battery Dominie Reading and Writing 1st – 5th grade Quarterly Benchmark Testing for 3rd – 8th grade 1st-8th Grade STAR Reading Test KG-MLPP(Michigan Literacy Progress Profile) and DRA Yearly Writing Assessment Student Evaluation Teachers evaluate students on a quarterly basis, with mid-term progress reports and report cards at the end of the marking period. Parents will be notified in writing as soon as possible, if a student is experiencing difficulty making progress in a certain major area or areas. Notification will be sent no later than the end of the first semester. It is essential that parents attend regular conferences and additional conferences if needed to monitor the progress of the student. The parents of students who are in jeopardy of being retained will be notified and a conference will be conducted. The decision to retain a student will be made in consultation between teachers, the counselor, the Principal, and parents. A letter stating possible retention will be sent to parents. In some borderline cases, promotion may be granted upon satisfactory completion of additional summer school or tutoring. Grading Scale Grades KG-2nd: O= Outstanding progress P= Progressing very well S= Satisfactory N= Needs improvement U= Unsatisfactory 90-100% 80-89% 70-79% 60-69% 0-59% 16 Grades 3rd -5th Report Card Grade Point Average (GPA) 97- 100% = A 94 - 96% = A 90 - 93% = A88 - 89% = B+ 83 - 87% = B 80 - 82% = B78 - 79% = C+ 73 - 77% = C 70 - 72% = C68 - 69% = D+ 63 - 67% = D 66 - 63% = D0 - 62% = F Outstanding Very Good Satisfactory Unsatisfactory- Needs to improve Failing Grade Point Average (GPA) 6th-8th Grade GPA Based Report Card 97- 100% = A+ Outstanding 94 - 96% = A 90 - 93% = A88 - 89% = B+ 83 - 87% = B Very Good 80 - 82% = B78 - 79% = C+ 73 - 77% = C Satisfactory 70 - 72% = C68 - 69% = D+ 63 - 67% = D Unsatisfactory- Needs to improve 66 - 63% = D0 - 62% = F Failing 4.0 3.75 3.5 3.25 3.0 2.75 2.50 2.25 2.00 1.75 1.50 1.25 0.0 Each teacher will inform the students of his/ her grading policy. *Note: Plus (+) and minus (-) are computed in the above grading scale for 3rd- 8th grade. Grades are rounded to the nearest tenths of a point. Huda Citizenship Grade Policy (grades 3-8) Our goal is for EACH HUDA STUDENT to be OUTSTANDING in citizenship. Citizenship grades are reported quarterly on the report card along with academic grades. Teachers will report citizenship according to the rubric that is written below. Parents are to be informed when there is a behavioral problem in class that may impact a student’s citizenship grade. Our teachers will make a parental contact before he/she gives a student a TWO, THREE, OR FOUR in citizenship so the parent has time to intervene. Our collective goal is to expect, encourage, and recognize outstanding behavior. At the beginning of each marking period, students start “fresh” with a clean slate in their quest to earn a ONE or OUTSTANDING in citizenship. 17 Citizenship Rubric OUTSTANDING — Description Students stay on task and put forth effort. Students listen and follow directions. Students are responsible, organized and respectful to others. Students participate and add to the class in a positive way. Students respect the due dates for assignments all the time. Students work reflects professional standards. SATISFACTORY – Description Students are usually on task. Students listen, follow rules, and directions most of the time. Students are usually organized, responsible, and respectful to others. Students participate in class appropriately and seldom need to be corrected. Students respect the due dates for assignments almost all of the time. Students work reflects professional standards. NEEDS IMPROVEMENT -- Description Students have to be reminded regularly to stay on task. Students constantly need reminders to follow directions and rules. Students continually need reminders to be organized, responsible and respectful to others. Students frequently interrupt class through disruption. Students respect the due dates for assignments some of the time. Students work reflects professional standards some of the time. UNSATISFACTORY -- Description Students make no effort to be on task. Students do not follow directions or rules. Students are disrespectful and rude to others. Students make no attempt to change their behavior. Students consistently disrupt class. Students neglect the due dates for assignments almost all of the time. Students work does not meet the professional standards. 18 Parent-Teacher Conferences (biannually) Parent-teacher conferences will be scheduled throughout the school year (please refer to the school calendar for specific dates). Conference request slips will be sent home prior to the conference dates, to provide parents the opportunity to select a convenient time. However, please understand that due to complications in scheduling, it is not always possible to meet those requests, but every effort will be made to do so. In the event that a parent/guardian wishes to contact a teacher outside of these scheduled times, he/she may do so by contacting the office to set up a mutually convenient meeting time. Parents must make an appointment to speak with a teacher about a child's progress instead of simply "dropping in". This policy is intended to ensure confidentiality and maintain scheduled educational services. Because Huda School encourages parental involvement in their children’s education, it is important that parents understand that the school welcomes communication, concerns and comments from parent(s) or guardian(s) regarding their child(ren)’s education or problems they may be experiencing in the school. Parents/guardians are requested to follow the preceding guidelines when they wish to speak with teaching staff. Parents must make an appointment or contact school before dropping in. All teachers have identified office hours during the week which support parent/teacher communication. Please consult with your respective teacher to schedule appointments accordingly. Academic Improvement Plan The main goal of the “Academic Improvement Plan” is to act as an academic “safety net” helping each student to achieve to his/her maximum potential. The “AIP” plan is to help students who have “dipped” or are struggling academically. The plan begins at the end of each marking period. In grades K-2, a student would be placed on an “Academic Improvement Plan” if he/she receives ONE UNSATISFACTORY grades in any of their eight subjects in the previous marking period. In grades 3-8, a student would be placed on an “AIP” if he/she receives TWO OR MORE D’S OR F’S in any of their eight subjects in the previous marking period. A student will be placed on an “AIP” for one marking period. A student in grade K-2 must earn at least a SATISFACTORY by the end of the marking period to successfully graduate from the “AIP.” A student in grades 3-8 must earn at least a 70% (C or better) by the end of the marking period to graduate from the program. The “AIP” process begins at the beginning of the marking period with the following procedures going into effect: a. Working with the Counselor, the teacher of the class where the student is doing poorly writes the prescription for improvement or the “Academic Improvement Plan.” It’s essential that all parties know which deficient skills or behaviors need improving. Communication with the student and parent is critical in creating the plan so all parties can work together for the student’s success. b. The student must demonstrate effort to improve the grade. c. The student and the parent must commit to getting extra help (tutoring if necessary) in or outside of school to close the skill gap. d. In grades 3-8, the student will keep a “Weekly Progress Report” and have it signed by the teacher, counselor, and parent. e. In grades K-2, the “Weekly Progress Report: will be signed by the teacher, counselor, and parent and will be sent home in the student’s “Take Home Folder.” 19 f. Copies of the “AIP” will be given to the parents, counselor and the DEAN OF DISCIPLINE. g. The “AIP” process will be monitored by the Counselor. A counseling referral may be made if deemed necessary if a behavioral issue is impacting academic performance. h. A student will NOT be allowed to play in Sports Club of Middle School Sports until the grade improves to at least a “C” average or a “Satisfactory.” Monitoring will be done on a weekly basis. If a student meets the criteria of improvement (C or Satisfactory), then he/she will be allowed to play sports. The plan continues for nine weeks or until the student improves academically. Promotion and Retention Policy It is our philosophy to educate the whole child, not just one part or aspect. Each child must be treated carefully and respectfully, and decisions are made based on the child’s best interests. We want to ensure the child’s success not only at the present time but also in the future. To do this, we fully consider the physical, social, emotional, and academic welfare of each child. Therefore, Huda School does not allow “double promotion” or underage promotion. Minimum attendance required for promotion in all grades is 90% of the school year. Absenteeism will be considered of prime importance in the decision to retain borderline students. Students who have more than 17 unexcused absences will be recommended for retention. For excused absences, parents must inform the office by 9:00 a.m. on the day of absence or write a letter to the teacher informing. Students are promoted or retained based on the basis of their total readiness to enter the next grade level. Ability, achievement, physical and social factors are all taken into consideration. Student Performance and Achievement Recognition Program 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Student of the Month Citizenship Awards Community Service Awards Academic Achievement Awards Sports Club Awards AOP Presidential Awards for Physical Fitness Standardized Assessment Achievement Awards Perfect Attendance Awards Principal’s Award Presidential Awards for Academic Excellence Following the footsteps of the Prophet (pbuh) Award Honor Roll At the end of each marking period, students in 3rd-8th grade, who have attained high academic achievement and demonstrated excellent conduct, will be recognized on the Honor Roll. To be eligible for the Honor Roll, a student must have: Gold Honor Roll: All A’s in all subjects and 1’s in citizenship grade in core and QAIS classes; (Citizenship grade of 2 is acceptable in Art, Gym, and Computer Classes) Silver Honor Roll: All A’s and B’s in all subjects and 1’s and 2’s in citizenship grade. Bronze Honor Roll: All A’s and B’s in all subjects (one grade of 3’ is acceptable if students show remarkable improvement in behavior or effort) Citizenship Honor Roll: All 1’s in citizenship in all subjects Academic Scholarship Award: All A’s in all subjects At the end of each marking period, Honor Roll will be posted on the school bulletin board and published in the school newsletter. 20 Presidential Awards for Achievement and Excellence Students in grades 3-8 who meet specific criteria will be recognized as Presidential Award Winners at the end of the school year. Two of the awards given at Huda School are the Presidential Awards for Excellence and Achievement. Presidential Award for Achievement The Presidential Award for Achievement is given by Huda teachers. Based on specific criteria, teachers nominate students that they consider worthy and deserving of recognition. To earn the Presidential Award for Achievement, a student must meet ONE or MORE of the following criteria: show tremendous growth and achievement but not meet all the criteria for the Presidential Award for Excellence demonstrate unusual commitment to learning in academics despite various obstacles maintains a school record that would have met the school’s selection criteria for the Presidential Award for Excellence but illness, personal crisis, or special needs prevented the student from maintaining high standards despite hard work achieves high scores or shows outstanding growth, improvement, commitment or intellectual development in particular subjects such as English, math, science, or other classes at Huda School Presidential Award for Excellence The Presidential Award for Excellence is the pinnacle of achievement for students at Huda School. Students are recognized for their accomplishments at the end of each school year. The criteria for this award are as follows: all A’s in all subjects for four quarters all 1’s in citizenship in all classes for four quarters; however, a student may have no more than TWO 2’S in all of their citizenship grades for the whole year to qualify Pass all the MEAP assessments earn a 1 in either math or reading on the MEAP test in the Fall testing cycle Principal’s Award – Special Recognition The Principal will award ONE student from each of the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade classes. The student receiving this award will be selected on the following criteria for this school year: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. A student who epitomizes the BEST of a Huda student; All 1’s in citizenship this school year; A grade point average of 3.85 or better in all subjects for this school year; A proven track record of leadership, scholarship and service within Huda School; Exhibited Outstanding Muslim Character Traits: caring, responsible, respectful, honest, and humble. The students who meet the criteria are nominated by teacher committee. Students who are nominated will write a one page essay on an assigned topic. Principal’s Award for Special Academic Achievement This award is given to students who have received straight A’s in all four marking periods. The award winners in each grade will be selected by the Principal and will be recognized at the Graduation/Awards Ceremony in June. 21 ATTENDANCE POLICY Office Hours The school office will be open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. School business and affairs relating to the school should be taken care of during that time. Arrival and Dismissal School hours for all students are from 8:07 am to 3:40 pm. Assembly begins at 8:07a.m. The 8:20am bell starts class. Students who arrive to the building after 8:07p.m. will not be able to attend the Assembly and will be directed to the Masjid by hallway monitors. Once in the Masjid later arrival students will be guided to engage in short prayer before proceeding to class. Students who have 5 recorded tardy notes will be given a detention after-school. Students can only be in the building during school hours. We cannot be responsible for unsupervised areas and times before and after school hours for students. Parents should be prompt in dropping off and picking up their children. The time for student pick up is strictly enforced and should not be a burden on school personnel. Late pick-up is any time after 4:00 pm. A late pick-up fee of $5.00 per child per five minutes (or a fraction thereof) will be assessed to any students picked up after 4:00 pm. The late pick-up fee is payable at the time of late pick-up or will be added to the student’s tuition account. Early Release From School Parents wishing to pick-up their child(ren) before dismissal, must come to the office to sign the student(s) out. Parents should not go to the classroom, as teachers are not authorized to release the students. A student who arrives at school after noon is counted as a half day absence. A student who leaves school before noon, is also counted as a half day of absence. Mandatory Attendance According to the Michigan Compulsory Attendance Law, a child between the age of six and sixteen must be present in the school for the school day (unless subject to state exemption), or at a place other than the school with approval of the school official for authorized school activities. Attendance requirement for promotion at Huda School is 90% or more of the school days. This total is reflective of excused and unexcused absences combined. Any student exceeding the 10% absence limit will be left to the Principal’s discretion. Reporting Absences To guarantee that students have been accounted for and have arrived at school, parents must call in to report the absence of a child by 9:00 am. Phone calls from students are unacceptable. Failure to call the office will result in an unexcused absence for the student. Excused Absences The following constitute valid excuses for temporary non-attendance provided that evidence of the excuse is submitted to the school: 1. 2. 3. Illness or Injury: An absence is excused when the absence results from illness or injury which prevents the child from being physically able to attend school. Death in the Immediate Family: An absence is excused when it results from the death of a member of the child’s immediate family. Medical or Dental Appointments: An absence is excused when it results from a medical or dental appointment of a child, and the school is notified except in an emergency. Please note that every effort should be made to schedule medical and dental appointments after regular school hours or on days when there is no school. 22 4. 5. 6. Court or Administrative Proceedings: An absence is excused when it results from the attendance of a child at the proceedings of a court or an administrative tribunal if the child is a party to the action or subpoenaed as a witness. Hajj or Umrah: An absence may be excused to travel to Hajj (the Pilgrimage or Umrah). Approval of such an absence must be obtained from the Principal prior to the absence. Other: Other excused absences may be granted with the written approval by the Principal. Unexcused/Excessive Absences An unexcused absence from school is any absence without a valid reason and a call from a parent. Absences for any reason NOT LISTED above under excused absences will be considered not valid or unexcused. Other examples of unexcused absences are: personal family vacations not part of the school calendar; a student staying home for no valid reason; skipping school; no parent call on the day of absence. If a student is absent from Huda School, parents are to call the office (248) 626-0900 by 9:00 a.m. the same day the student is absent. Daily attendance in all classes is necessary for school success. It is the policy of Huda School that all students shall be in regular and continuous attendance in all classes and shall report on time. Repeated absences from school interfere with both individual progress and with the teacher’s ability to conduct the instructional program effectively for all students in the class. A student could miss SEVENTEEN excused absences in the school year (approximately FOUR per marking period). Excused absences as previously stated are for the following: illness/injury; a death in the immediate family; medical/dental appointments; court proceedings; Hajj; or other reasons granted by the principal. Upon the FIFTH absence (excused or unexcused), a student will receive a documented phone call from the school as a “heads up” and as a warning to improve attendance at Huda School. Upon the NINTH absence (excused or unexcused), a student will receive a letter from the Office that the student is approaching behavioral probation at Huda School. Upon the FOURTEENTH absence (excused or unexcused), a student will be placed on BEHAVIORAL PROBATION for the remainder of the school year. Per state law until age 16, a student may be referred to the Juvenile Division of the Oakland County Probate Court for excessive, unexcused absences. The attendance requirement for promotion and to remain at Huda School is NINETY PERCENT (90%) attendance for the school year. Any student missing TEN PERCENT of the school year (seventeen days of UNEXCUSED absences) will be recommended for removal from Huda School. A student will have to petition Huda Administration to be reinstated to Huda School. Students need to be present to learn. Regular attendance demonstrates a commitment to learning and to the school community. Positive attendance is a critical employability skill. Students with PERFECT attendance and those who have only ONE ABSENCE each quarter (marking period) will be recognized in our newsletter, a letter home on Edline, and at our quarterly assemblies. It’s cool to be in school! 23 Tardiness Students in grades 1st - 8th grade arriving after 8:07 am should obtain a Tardy Slip from the designated hallway monitor before entering their class. Five unexcused tardies will result in one after-school detention. For the safety and security of children, all doors are locked at 8:30 am. Students arriving to school after 8:30 am must be accompanied by their parent to the office to sign in. For excused tardiness (physician/ dentist appointment, legal commitment, or such) parents are required to inform the school by phone call from the parent or a written note. Please be advised that excused tardies are only those which are beyond the control of the parent or guardian, such as a flat tire, car breakdown, extreme harsh weather or unexpected road construction. Unexcused tardies are those that are within the control of the individual, such as oversleeping, leaving late from home for school, and such. Middle School Tardy Policy (periods 2-9) Being present at school and on time are two important employability skills that students must practice to ready themselves for high school and the world of work. Tardiness is disruptive to the teaching and learning environment. Teachers will keep track of their own individual tardies and these will be recorded on Edline. For middle school students, the tardy policy begins “fresh” with a clean slate at the beginning of each marking period. Our expectation is that students will make positive choices and understand that being punctual is an important employability skill. Tardy consequences reflect tardies in ALL CLASSES (cumulative) not just individual teachers. Tardy Consequences (periods 2-9) 1st Tardy: Verbal warning given by teacher (recorded) 2nd Tardy: Written warning given by teacher (given to student). 3rd Tardy: Phone call or e-mail to parents done by teacher 4th Tardy: Teacher assigned detention (Fridays at noon) 5th Tardy: Office referral and Thursday after school detention In addition, students who are tardy will LOSE 1 POINT per period of their 5 Employability Skill points per class. Employability Skill points per class per day (5 per class): 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Positive Attitude (1 point) On-Time (in the classroom) 1 point Cooperative; works well with others (1 point) Prepared for class; demonstrates effort; ready to learn (1 point) Participates in class (1 point) Total: 5 points per class per day (25 citizenship points per week) **Each student begins every class period with 5 points. If the student meets the employability standard per the teacher, he/she keeps the points. If not, they lose the points for that day. (i.e. tardy to class which is a loss of 1 point). **Employability skill points can count up to ONE FULL GRADE at the end of the quarter. These are “success skills” in life and in the world of work! We’re confident that you’ll make successful choices! 24 SEVENTEEN absences excused or unexcused in a school year means that a student may be retained in that grade per the discretion of the building principal. Accidents, bad weather, or flat tires would be excused for first period only. Bad weather excuses would be left up to the discretion of Huda Administration. We want everyone to arrive safely to Huda School. We want everyone to realize that being on time is important to classroom instruction and consistently arriving late to class is a disruption to teaching and learning. At the end of each quarter, students who have no tardies and/or perfect attendance will be recognized at the quarterly assemblies. BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE POLICIES Behavioral Expectations This section should be thoroughly discussed between parent and child so that no misunderstanding will occur as to the type of a behavior expected from each student. Huda School and Montessori expects its students to behave in a proper, responsible and Islamic manner which is conducive to their learning and the learning of others. Rules are set in place for the good of the general school population, and to help students develop healthy Islamic attitudes towards themselves and others through an awareness of their personal responsibility. The philosophy of discipline at Huda School is corrective as we help students make positive behavioral choices. In this way, students will enjoy the peace and pleasure of studying in an Islamic school environment. Rules are in place for the school, prayer hall, classrooms, hallways and playground, and all students are expected to follow them. If a student does not follow the school’s code of conduct, he/she may be excluded from certain activities or denied privileges. In extreme cases of misbehavior and misconduct, the student may be suspended or expelled. Every student is expected to demonstrate proper Islamic manners and comply with the following expectations: Huda Top 10 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 1. Respect everyone and everything. Speak politely to others and use good manners. Be courteous and kind. Be on time, and attend school regularly. Be responsible and behave in a safe manner. Wear the school uniform appropriately everyday. Be prepared for class and do your best work. Follow teacher requests and obey all school rules. Help each other succeed. Do the right thing. Everyone at Huda School will work together to create a school environment that is physically and emotionally safe, calm, orderly, procedural, and one in which people care for one another. Classroom Management Each teacher is fully responsible for the discipline in his/her classroom and will collaborate with students to develop a classroom management system appropriate for that age level to help students understand and integrate these guidelines and rules into their daily activities. Teachers are responsible for making their classroom management system known to all staff, volunteers and parents of their students to promote 25 partnership and support to carry out the rules and guidelines, ensuring uniformity in understanding, interpretation, and implementation of the system. 1. 2. 3. Parent contact: In the event that normal classroom management systems are not sufficient to correct disruptive or disrespectful behavior, the teacher will contact the parents. The parents will be responsible for discussing the problem with the child and assisting the child to correct the behavior. Parent-teacher conference: If the behavior continues, a mandatory parent-teacher conference will be scheduled with the teacher. If both the parent and teacher agree, the child may be included in the meeting. The teacher or parent may request that an administrator be present. The parent may also be required to observe in the classroom. Staff intervention: If the problem does not improve, the Principal or her designee will call the parents to schedule another conference to determine the most appropriate course of action. It may be recommended that a Student Study Team, consisting of teacher(s) and other appropriate staff, be convened to develop and appropriate action plan. The members of this team will work with the family and teacher to cultivate healthy classroom and playground behavior. Unacceptable and Prohibited Behaviors (which include but are not limited to): 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. To undermine the principles and teachings of Islam and the ideals of the school. To disrupt class or infringe upon the rights of others to learn. To be insubordinate. To use libel and slanderous remarks, obscenities, profanity, or name calling in verbal or written form or by using gestures. To harass or fight with someone. To be dishonest, cheat, or plagiarize. To conduct illegal and/or immoral acts. To vandalize or deface any school property. Those who do so will be required to replace the damaged items. To bring to school and use any of the following: magazines, tape recorders or TV devices (unless part of an approved class project), skateboards, roller blades, playing cards, live animals, glass, sharp or pointed objects, matches, lighters, flammable chemicals, weapons, explosives, firecrackers, Islamically unacceptable materials, video cameras, cell phones, heelies, IPods, MP3 players, and handheld electronic devices. To leave the assigned classroom/ area without written permission from the teacher, office, and/ or parent. To have food or drink in any area other than the designated areas, at the designated times. To chew gum anywhere on the school premises (indoor and outdoor). To use the telephone without the permission and pass from the teacher and the permission from the office. To pull the fire alarm. This is cause for suspension. To wear hats or caps in school. To go in any restricted area such as the teachers’ lounge, supply closet, and maintenance room. To throw snowballs. Bullying: Bullying is defined when one individual or group seeks to dominate, control, intimidate, and/or terrorize the life of another individual. Bullying can be pushing, shoving, hitting, namecalling, picking-on, making fun of, laughing at, and/or excluding someone. Bullying causes pain and stress to victims and is never justified or excusable as "kids being kids", "just teasing", or any other rationalization. Bullying behavior is strictly prohibited at Huda School. Care of Furniture, Buildings and Grounds Taking pride in the appearance of the school grounds and buildings is essential in establishing a pleasant, wholesome atmosphere. Each student should assume the responsibility to see that lunch paper, wrappers, pop cans, and all forms of trash get into the proper rubbish containers. Students who damage or destroy 26 any school property will pay for the cost of repair or replacement of the items. Masjid (Prayer Hall) As Muslims, the students are taught to respect the Masjid. Students are expected to remain quiet while in the Masjid. Playing, talking, and any other inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated in the Masjid. Masjid Behavior and Expectations 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Always come to the Masjid with Wudhu. Place shoes on the racks. Enter with your right foot first. Girls should wear scarves before entering the Masjid Recite the Masjid Dua Upon Entering the Masjid Walk slowly and Sit Quietly Make Sunnah before and after Fardh Prayers Recite all Duas with Imam after the prayers Do not walk in front of anyone who is praying. Do not talk when someone is praying or reciting the Quran Do not damage Masjid property. No eating or drinking allowed at any time! Do not litter. Leave Masjid quietly! Assembly Procedures • • • • Students are to walk silently in a single file line on the right side of the hallway and stairs. All students are to enter the gym silently. Students are to sit on the floor with their legs crossed in ascending grade order. Children may whisper talk. The students will stop talking immediately when a speaker steps before the group and gives the High 5 signal. Give Me Five 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. • • • • Eyes on the speaker Quiet Facing Front Hands Free (Put things down) Listen When appropriate, students will raise their hands to answer questions. Students needing to be excused during an assembly are to exit and return through the rear door. Students will remain quietly seated until given directions by teachers. Classes will exit from the rear doorway beginning with the students on the northeast side of the gym. Staff members will model appropriate behavior by leaving student work, beverages and reading material in their classrooms. Huda Hallway Procedures PK-5 • • Teachers will line up the children in the classroom before exiting the room. Children form a single file line and stand quietly with hands by their sides, waiting to pass quietly on the right. 27 • • • • • • • • The line leader understands and follows teacher’s directions of where to stop and start the line in the hallway. Students move quickly with their hands to themselves to their destination, maintaining a straightline o the right side of the halls and stairs. It is suggested that the teacher monitor the line by moving from front to back to check for student safety and line formation. Students will walk up the steps one at a time with one hand on the banister. Students are to be silent in the hallways. Students may give quiet waves when meeting someone they know in the halls. Students enter the classroom quietly and wait for teacher directions or continue working quietly. Students, who need to leave the room, must carry a hall pass at all times. Hall passes should be easily accessible to all students. Acquaint your students with the above rules and procedures so they can move independently throughout the building if necessary. Staff needs to model appropriate hallway behavior for the students by being silent or using conversational voices in the hallways. Hallway Procedures for Middle School: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Walk to the Right! No running allowed! Use conversational voices in the hallway. Expedite locker usage with minimal disturbance to others. Keep hallways and windowsills clear of personal belongings. Hold doors for others when appropriate. Procedures for Using the Restroom Independently • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • When going to the restroom, students must have a hall pass at all times. Students will use the bathroom log to sign-in and out. Students must walk silently through the hallways and remain quiet when using the restroom. Students will keep hands feet and all other objects to themselves at all times. Students will keep feet on the floor—no one should stand up on toilet or toilet paper stand. Students will enter the restroom stall and lock the door behind them. Students must allow other students to have privacy when using the restroom. When finished using the restroom, students will flush the toilet. Students will unlock stall and go directly to the sink to wash hands. Students will unlock stall and go directly to the sink to wash hands. Students will turn on water and use one squirt of soap. When finished washing their hands, students will get one or two paper towels to dry hands. Students will then use paper towels to turn off water faucet. Students will throw paper towel directly into trashcan. Students will return to their classroom silently and immediately. Students will report any problems to their teacher. Bus Procedures • • • • • All students will wait quietly in their respective locations with teachers. All students will wait in a straight line with their hand and feet to themselves. There will be no hitting, pushing or running while waiting in line. Once the buses have arrived, the teacher on duty for each bus will escort the students to their prospective bus number. Students must be seated immediately and remain seated until they arrive at their stop. Switching seats is not allowed. 28 • • • • • • • • • • • Students must keep feet on the floor, face forward and speak only to the person next to them in a whisper voice. For safety reasons no student shall have legs, hands, feet or other objects in the aisles. Students will leave all belongings in their book bags. Extending arms, legs or head out of the bus is not allowed. Throwing objects on the bus or out the window is not allowed. Talk to the bus driver only in an emergency. Keep hands, feet and all other objects to yourself. Fighting, punching or shoving will not be tolerated. No student shall eat, drink or chew gum in the gym or on the bus. Use of profanity, obscenity or obscene gestures is prohibited. Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before standing to exit the bus at your stop. Follow all directions given to you by the teachers and supervisors on the bus. Playground Every child is expected to follow the safety rules for the playground. All equipment is designed for pleasure and the development of muscle coordination, but if misused can cause bodily harm to oneself and others. Activities such as snow and stone throwing and playing in non-designated areas are not allowed to ensure the safety of the students. Specific playground rules are: 1. No throwing anything (woodchips snowballs etc). 2. No food including gum or candy on the playground. This is a major choking hazard, especially lollipops! 3. No leaving the playground area or going down the hill without permission. 4. No tackle football. 5. Stay off the preschool stairs. It is distracting to the preschool class and jumping off the high concrete stairs is not a safe thing to do. 6. No climbing up or under any of the surrounding fences. 7. The slides are for going down; no student is allowed to climb up the regular slide or outside the tube slide. Kids should slide down one at a time and sitting down feet first. 8. No climbing up the tether ball pole. 9. The track glider- One at a time and no slamming. For safety reasons the kids should glide with their feet pointed towards the ground, not hanging upside down while in motion- “spider". 10. No jumping off or hanging upside down from the monkey bars. 11. No flipping the swings around the top of the swing set, this could be damaging to the chains. 12. Only one person at a time on the swings. Swinging must be done sitting down only. No jumping from the swings. 13. There is room for only 3 riders on the tire swing. No standing on the tire swing. 14. If a student can’t reach a piece of playground equipment, then he/she cannot use this equipment. Example: In order to ride the track glider a student must be able to reach the glider without being lifted to do so. Consequences Three Strike Policy First: Warning Second: 5 minutes on wall Third: Miss recess and possible referral to the office. 29 PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE PROCESS AND CONSEQUENCES Consequences for inappropriate behavior are corrective in nature. These actions are intended to help students make better choices and to grow as young people. Teachers and administrators work hard to be fair and consistent regarding consequences for inappropriate behavior. These decisions impact the safety, security, and learning environment of Huda School. The main purposes of corrective discipline are to help students to make positive choices, to become individuals of high character, and to protect the learning environment of Huda School. Teachers have a RIGHT TO TEACH and students HAVE A RIGHT TO LEARN! The elementary and middle school teachers have their own specific classroom management plans to help students learn proper behavior and to ensure a quality, classroom learning environment. Each teacher also has his/her own procedures for implementing positive reinforcement, rewards, and incentives in their classrooms. Everyone at Huda will work together to create a school environment that is physically and emotionally safe, calm, orderly, procedural, and one in which people care for one another. IF students do break the rules under the teacher’s watch, then the following steps will be enacted by the teacher after each infraction: Teacher/Classroom Progressive Disciplinary Steps: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. verbal warning/conference with student teacher/parent contact and/or conference student contract (copy signed by student, parent, and counselor) counselor referral/behavior plan teacher-decided consequence (lunch, recess, or after school detention) teacher/parent/DEAN OF DISCIPLINE conference (Director of Academic and Student Affairs) Disciplinary Action with OFFICE REFERRAL **Serious, severe, or chronic acts of misbehavior may be referred to the Dean of Discipline or Principal. Disciplinary Action: Any WRITTEN REFERRAL given to the administrator after teacher/progressive discipline has been tried will be regarded as an OFFICE REFERRAL. When it becomes necessary to discipline a student, appropriate consideration will be given to the student’s age, experience, and past behavioral history. Actions will be proportionate to the severity of the misconduct. Administration reserves the right to deal with each offense on an individual review basis. Administration will consider the actual misconduct, the extent of the individual involvement, and the student’s record both academic and behavioral record. This review may result in disciplinary action more or less severe than outlined. Other factors taken into consideration regarding the severity of a consequence include: • • • • • the actual harm or injury caused the risk of harm to the student and/or others the intent of the student the number and seriousness of prior infractions committed by the student the seriousness of the consequence required in the circumstances to discourage future violations by the student or others 30 List of corrective administrative actions: **Each school year is a fresh start and a “clean slate” for students. Our philosophy is to partner with parents and staff to help our students more positive choices regarding behavior! *Student Conference *Student/Parent Conference *counselor referral *student contract *behavioral improvement plan (counselor) *written or verbal apology *written essay (Quran/Hadith references to appropriate behavior) *restitution *peer mediation *after school detention (one or more days) *in-school suspension *out of school suspension (1-10 days) *out of school suspension (long term…up to 30 days) requires EC action *expulsion from school (EC action required) In all referrals (OFFICE REFERRALS) written up and given to the administrator or Principal designee, a parent and counselor contact will be made. PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE: Our goal is to provide each student with a safe and healthy environment (emotionally and physically) conducive to building an individual of strong, moral character. Huda School aims to help students make positive choices and correct misbehavior using various strategies. When a student receives the SECOND “Office Referral” (written up and given to the Principal or her designee), the student will be placed on a BIP (Behavioral Improvement Plan). The following procedures go into place with the BIP: a. The counselor writes the BIP with input from the student, parent, teachers, and administration. It’s essential that ALL PARTIES know what behaviors need improving. Communication with the student and parent are critical in creating the BIP so all parties can work together for the student’s success. Each BIP will be individualized for the student to address specific behavioral goals. b. The student must demonstrate effort to improve behavior. c. The BIP process will be monitored by the counselor. The counselor will check regularly with the student to monitor progress on the BIP. d. The duration of the BIP will be for nine weeks or a time limit decided by the teacher and counselor with input from the parent and student. e. Students WILL be allowed to participate in Sport’s Club and other student activities while on the BIP. When a student receives the FOURTH “Office Referral” (written up and given to the), the student will receive a formal “behavioral notice” letter from the Dean or Principal. Parent contact will be made. This is “pre-step” to behavioral probation. When a student receives the SIXTH “Office Referral”, the student will be placed on a “Behavioral Disciplinary Probation” for no less than 45 days. The counselor will also revise the BIP “Behavioral Improvement Plan” to be even more corrective and helpful to the student. If the persistent misbehavior continues, the student will be suspended pending Principal’s recommendation for expulsion to the Executive Committee. 31 Fighting: Intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily harm to any student on school grounds before, during, or after school will not be tolerated. This also includes field trips and school activity functions where a student represents Huda School. First Offense: one to three day suspension/referral to counselor; parent contact Second Offense: three to five day suspension; parent contact Third Offense: suspension pending recommendation for expulsion to EC Insubordination: When a student intentionally fails to comply with the direction of teachers, supervisors, administrators, or other school personnel during any period of time when under school’s supervision, the student will/may be subject to the following disciplinary action: First Offense: 45 min after school detention, behavior plan, parent contact, reflection paper, counselor referral Second Offense: 1 hour after school detention Third Offense: 1-2 days of in-school suspension Fourth Offense: 1-2 days of out of school suspension Fifth Offense: 3-5 days of out of school suspension and behavioral probation Sixth Offense: 5-10 days of suspension pending recommendation for expulsion to the Executive Committee. Persistent Disrespect and Class Disruption: When a student repeatedly demonstrates disrespect to the teacher, himself, and fellow students, the student will be subject to the following disciplinary action: First Offense: 45 min. after school detention, behavior plan, parent contact, reflection paper, counselor referral Second Offense: 1 hour after-school detention Third Offense: 1-2 days of in-school suspension Fourth Offense: 1-2 days of out of school suspension Fifth Offense: 3-5 days of out of school suspension and behavioral probation Sixth Offense: 5-10 day suspension pending recommendation for expulsion to the Executive Committee Cutting a Class Failure on the part of a student to attend a designated class without the permission of an administrator or faculty member will constitute a cut. For the first offense the penalty will be decided by the Assistant Principal. Ordinarily the penalty is a detention which could be after-school or lunch. For a second offense the parent/guardian must attend a meeting with the Assistant Principal before the student may be readmitted to school. The consequences for a second offense will be decided at the parent conference. Any subsequent cutting will result in a student being dropped from any and all classes with a failure. Leaving School Grounds Without Permission Before, During, or After School Once a student arrives at school, the student is not to leave the school campus without the permission of parent or designee (signed out and picked up) on the emergency card or school administration. First Offense: After-school detention Second Offense: 1 day in-school suspension Third Offense: 1-2 days of out of school suspension Fourth Offense: 3-5 days of out of school suspension and behavioral probation Fifth Offense: 5-10 day suspension pending recommendation for expulsion to the EC 32 Verbal Assault/Threat to a Staff Member: First Offense: 3-5 days out of school suspension Second Offense: 5-10 days out of school suspension/behavioral probation Third Offense: suspension pending expulsion Threatening/Intimidating/Harassing a Student: First Offense: parent contact, behavior plan, counselor referral Second Offense: 1-3 days in-school suspension Third Offense: 3-5 days out of school suspension/behavioral probation Fourth Offense: suspension pending recommending expulsion by EC Cheating/Plagiarizing Cheating and plagiarizing are serious offenses. In many places of employment, people can lose their jobs over this. In many universities, students can lose credit for a whole class. In some instances, a student may be removed from the university. Ethical practices must be adhered to and practiced at Huda School. First Offense: receive a zero, parent contact, counselor referral Second Offense: receive a zero, 1-2 days in school suspension Third Offense: receive a zero, 3-5 days out of school suspension, school probation Fourth Offense: receive a zero, 5-10 day suspension pending expulsion Huda School and Montessori Anti-Bully Policy The Huda School and Montessori board of education recognizes that a school that is physically and emotionally safe and secure for all students promotes good citizenship, increases student attendance and engagement, and supports academic achievement. To protect the rights of all students and groups for a safe and secure learning environment, the board of education prohibits acts of bullying, harassment, and other forms of aggression and violence. In Islam, the belief of all forms of bullying is wrong due to the immorality of the deed. As followers of Islam we believe that students, staff, faculty, administrators, and volunteers have a duty to stop all forms of wrongful actions. Islam does not tolerate any form of bullying as it is a form of oppression. Allah has mentioned many times in the Quran regarding his displeasure of such actions: “Allah does not like oppression (3:140),” “O ye who believe, do not defame one another, or insult one another by nicknames (49:11).” Interactions between individuals, from an Islamic point of view, are governed by the fundamental right of sanctity of life, honor, and property. Therefore, anything that compromises these rights should be stopped. In Sūrat'l- Ḥujurāt (49:10-12), Allāh says, “Verily, the believers are brothers… let not some people mock others, for they may be better than themselves, nor (let) women (mock) women who may be better than themselves, and do not slander yourselves, nor revile by (offensive) nickname, O you who believe, avoid (indulging in) much suspicion; truly, some suspicion is a sin, And do not spy or backbite one another. And be conscious of Allāh; indeed, Allāh is Relenting, Merciful.” These verses emphasize the non-physical face of bullying. Verbal and emotional bullying can have even greater and longer-lasting negative effects on the victims than physical bullying. Bullying or harassment, like other forms of aggressive and violent behaviors, interferes with both a school’s ability to educate its students and a student’s ability to learn. All administrators, faculty, staff, parents, volunteers, and students are expected to refuse to tolerate bullying and harassment and to demonstrate behavior that is respectful and civil. It is especially important for adults to model these behaviors (even when disciplining) in order to provide positive examples for student behavior. “Bullying” or “harassment” is any gesture or written, verbal, graphic, physical act, or cyber harassment that is reasonably perceived as being dehumanizing, intimidating, hostile, humiliating, threatening, or otherwise likely to evoke fear of physical harm or emotional distress. “Bullying” is conduct that meets all of the following criteria: • is reasonably perceived as being dehumanizing, intimidating, hostile, humiliating, threatening, or otherwise likely to evoke fear of physical harm or emotional distress; • is directed at one or more pupils; • is conveyed through physical, verbal, technological or emotional means; 33 • substantially interferes with educational opportunities, benefits, or program The Huda School and Montessori board of education believes that the best discipline for aggressive behavior is designed to (1) support students in taking responsibility for their actions, (2) develop empathy, and (3) teach alternative ways to achieve the goals and to solve problems that motivated the aggressive behavior. Staff members who interact with students shall apply best practices designed to prevent discipline problems and encourage students’ abilities to develop self-discipline and make better choices in the future. Although the focus of prevention and interventions are often on victims of bullying, it is important to provide support to bullies as well. As the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is oppressed.” The Prophet was asked: “It is right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?” He replied: “By preventing him from oppressing others.” (Ṣahīh Bukhāri, Volume 3, Ḥadīth 624). From this ḥadīth, we learn the importance of helping those who are oppressed but, even more profoundly, the need to assist oppressors by stopping them from committing this infringement on the rights of others. Below are a list of interventions used to embark upon victims and bullying behaviors. Strategies for Individual Behavioral Change • • • • • • • • • Framing the aggressive behavior as a failed attempt to solve a real problem or reach a goal. The adult assists the misbehaving student to find a better way to solve the problem or meet the goal. Supervised peer support group Corrective instruction or other relevant learning or service experience Supportive discipline to increase accountability for the bullying offense Behavioral management plan, with benchmarks that are closely monitored Involvement of school disciplinarian Student counseling (individual or group) Parent conferences Referral to student therapy Consequences for a student who commits an act of bullying and harassment shall vary in method and severity according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the student, and the student’s history of problem behaviors and performance, and must be consistent with the board of education’s approved code of student conduct. Remedial measures shall be designed to: correct the problem behavior; prevent another occurrence of the behavior; and protect the victim of the act. Effective discipline should employ a school-wide approach to adopt a rubric of bullying offenses and the associated consequences. The consequences and remedial measures may include, but are not limited to, the examples listed below. • Participation in a guided reflection process designed to teach alternative behavior • Temporary removal from the classroom • Loss of privileges • Classroom or administrative detention • Referral to disciplinarian • In-school suspension during the school week or the weekend, for students • Out-of-school suspension, legal action, or expulsion The Huda School and Montessori board of education requires the principal and/or the principal’s designee to be responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation of this policy. In doing so, the principal and/or the principal’s designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough, and complete investigation of each alleged incident. The investigation is to be completed within three school days after a report or complaint is made. The parents of the students involved shall receive written notice from the school on the outcome of the investigation (in compliance with current privacy laws and regulations). All reports on instances of bullying and/or harassment must be recorded by the school for annual data review. After investigation is completed necessary actions will take place: First Offense: Parent contact, counselor referral, behavioral plan 34 Second Offense: 1-2 days in school suspension, reflection paper Third Offense: 2-3 days out of school suspension, behavioral probation Fourth Offense: Suspension pending recommendation for expulsion The Huda School and Montessori board of education prohibits any person from falsely accusing another as a means of bullying or harassment. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person found to have falsely accused another as a means of bullying or harassment may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school employee found to have falsely accused another as a means of bullying or harassment shall be in accordance with district policies, procedures, and agreements. The Huda School and Montessori board of education requires school officials to annually disseminate the policy to all school staff, students, and parents, along with a statement explaining that it applies to all applicable acts of harassment and bullying that occur on school property, at school-sponsored functions, or on a school bus. The chief school administrator shall develop an annual process for discussing the school district policy on harassment and bullying with students and staff. The Huda School and Montessori board of education recognizes that in order to have the maximum impact, it is critical to provide a minimum of annual training for school employees and volunteers who have significant contact with pupils on school policies and procedures regarding bullying and harassment. Training will provide school employees with a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities and the necessary skills to fulfill them. The Birmingham board of education requires school officials to annually disseminate the policy to all school staff, students, and parents, along with a statement explaining that it applies to all applicable acts of harassment and bullying that occur on school property, at school-sponsored functions, or on a school bus. The chief school administrator shall develop an annual process for discussing the school district policy on harassment and bullying with students and staff. The following pages will include contract between student, teacher, and parents promise to make this school a safe place by being conscious of bullying behavior and to speak up. Dress Code (see appropriate section for description): First Offense: documented written warning and recess detention Second Offense: After school detention/parent contact Third Offense: Parent Called, Child Sent Home! Theft: Theft is unlawfully taking of property belonging to another person or the school on school grounds or on an educational or sporting event off school grounds (field trip). In certain situations, a police report may be filed. First Offense: return of property/or restitution, parent contact Second Offense: 1-2 days out of school suspension Third Offense: 2-3 days out of school suspension/behavioral probation Fourth Offense: suspension pending recommendation for expulsion Drugs A student in possession of an illegal substance will be referred to the police. A student possessing or under the influence of any amount of alcohol, drugs or counterfeit drugs/look-alike drugs, or in possession of drug paraphernalia, before school, during school, or at a school related function will be required to comply with the following: 1st offense: 1. Student and parents must meet with the administrative team. 2. The student will be referred to a disciplinary team to consider interventions. 3. The student will be given three days of school suspension (in-school or out-of-school at the administration's discretion). 35 4. The student will not be able to participate in ANY school related activities for 30 days beginning the day after meeting with the administrative team. Vandalism/Defacing of School Property Vandalizing or defacing of school property will result in the student being responsible for the replacement, repair of the damage or restitution. In the case of severe or substantial damage, the student may be subject to long term suspension or expulsion from Huda School. First Offense: one day of in-school suspension/counseling referral/parent contact Second Offense: one to two days out of school suspension Third Offense: two to three days of out of school suspension Fourth Offense: 3-5 days out of school suspension/behavioral probation Fifth Offense: suspension pending recommendation for expulsion SUSPENSION AND APPEAL Short Term Suspension The Principal has the authority to impose a short-term suspension when there is reasonable cause to believe that there has been misconduct. Procedure: The student must be informed of the specific charges that serve as the basis for the possible suspension or other disciplinary action. The student has the right to present any information supporting his or her defense to the administrator who will decide whether disciplinary action is warranted. The student's parents shall be notified as soon as possible if the student is temporarily suspended from school or retained after school. The Principal may impose a suspension not to exceed ten school days. Before imposing suspension, the administrator shall consider the actual misconduct, the extent of the student's involvement, and the student's past behavioral record. An appeal of a suspension of 2-10 school days, which has been imposed by the Principal shall be directed to the Executive Committee. The appeal may include a parent conference. The requested appeal must be made in writing within 24 hours of the date the disciplinary action was taken, and must include the reasons and rationale for the adjustments requested. There shall be no appeal for a suspension of one school day. During the appeal of a suspension, the student shall remain out of school until a decision has been rendered. The Executive Committee will make the decision within a 48 hour time period. The decision of the Executive Committee Chair or his/her designee will be final. Expulsion The Executive Committee, with the recommendation of the principal, has the authority to expel a student when deemed necessary. The following offenses may result in a student being expelled from Huda School: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. possession or use of a dangerous weapon on school property arson: intentionally setting of a fire or doing any act which results in the starting of a fire sale of illegal or prescription drugs on school property or at school events persistent disobedience or disruption: repeated referrals for being disobedient and disruptive; not responding to behavior plans possession or use of explosive devices that have the potential to do bodily harm or physical damage physical assault against a teacher or school employee: intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another through force or violence 36 7. bomb threat: the act of making a threat to use explosive devices to cause harm to another or to property 8. criminal sexual conduct 9. false fire alarm: intentionally setting off a fire alarm when there is no fire 10. other dangerous behaviors that pose a risk to the safety and security of self and others Each student is accountable for his or her own conduct. When it does become necessary to discipline a student, appropriate consideration will be given to the student's age, experience, and past behavioral history. Telephone Usage No student is allowed to use the telephones at any time without permission from a teacher or staff member. Computer Tampering A person who knowingly or intentionally alters or damages a computer program or data, which comprises a part of a computer system or computer network without the consent of the owner of the computer system or computer network, commits computer tampering, a Class D felony. As added by P.L. 35-1986, Sec. 2. Computer tampering may result in suspension or expulsion from school. Computer Trespass A person who knowingly or intentionally accesses a computer system, a computer network, or any part of a computer system or computer network without the consent of the owner of the computer system or computer network, or the consent of the owner’s licensee, commits computer trespass, a Class A misdemeanor. As added by P.L. 35-1986, Sec. 3. Computer trespass may result in losing computer usage, suspension or expulsion from school. Computer Lab Rules 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. No student is to be in the computer lab without a teacher present. No food or drink will be allowed in the computer lab at any time. Use your assigned computer at all times. No outside disks may be brought into the computer lab. The disk used at school may not be taken out of the classroom. Do not upload software or files onto any school computer. Do not change the configuration of any program on the computer. This includes desktop colors, screensavers, fonts, or other options that appear on any page of any program. Do not play computer games. Do not save any information on the C drive (in My Documents). Do not force any component of the computer, including disks, to make them work. If you have any trouble, ask your teacher for help. Do not turn your computer off. Computers are to stay on all day. Exit the document(s) you have been working on before leaving at the end of the class (click the black X in the upper right hand corner). Turn the mouse upside down beside the monitor and push chairs in. Return disks to the teacher before leaving class. Absolutely no horseplay will be tolerated in the computer lab. Since students use assigned computers, they may be held responsible for any damage or misuse. Penalties for damage or misuse may be monetary and/or disciplinary. Students will be expected to follow the school’s Internet Acceptable Use Policy. 37 LIBRARY / MEDIA CENTER The librarian is responsible for the management of the library. The teacher will help students find information of various kinds. The school librarian arranges for reference materials to be available for you. Teachers will maintain discipline in the library. The librarian will help you at any time. Use of Library Books If a book is lost, a replacement fee must be paid. If the book is later found and returned, the money will be refunded less the overdue charge and any additional fees. A fair charge will be made for damage beyond normal wear. Fines can be avoided by accepting responsibility for the care of borrowed material. Reminder of proper library rules: PLEASE BE QUIET AND WORK RESPONSIBLY! SEARCH AND SEIZURE General Searches General searches of school property may be conducted at any time by school personnel for the purpose of enforcing school regulations concerning health, safety or order. Student Privacy Huda School recognizes that the privacy of students in their persons and their immediate personal property may not be violated by an unreasonable search and seizure. Students and their immediate personal property will not be subject to search and seizure without reasonable, individualized suspicion of misconduct as set forth below. Specific Searches Any search of school property assigned to a specific student may be made only if school authorities have reasonable cause to believe that the property contains an item, the possession of which constitutes a crime or code violation, is a threat to the health or safety of the student or others, or threatens a disruption of the educational process. Searches of Person and Personal Property An administrator may search that student and the property of that student, including by way of example, bags, briefcases, satchels, purses, and wallets upon good cause of a reasonable suspicion to believe that a student may possess illegal items or other items reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety or security of the student or others, or items which are used or attempted to be used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process. Lockers Students are assigned school lockers for use during the school year for the sole purpose of storing supplies, clothing, and other items essential to their daily needs while in attendance in school. All lockers remain the property of the school district, and school authorities reserve the right to conduct specific or general searches as set forth above. Illegal items or other items reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety or security of a person, property, or items which are used or attempted to be used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process, will be removed from the student's possession. Such items may be turned over to law enforcement agencies and used in connection with criminal proceedings against the student, as well as disciplinary action by the school. 38 Other Uses of Force Corporal punishment of a student in the form of slapping, striking, pulling of ear or hair or pushing a student is an inappropriate disciplinary action and is forbidden; however, school employees may, within the scope of their employment, use and apply such amount of force and restraint as is reasonable and necessary to quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to others, to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects upon the person or within the control of the student, for the purpose of self-defense or for the protection of person(s) and/or property. LOCKERS AND LOCKER CONTENTS Lockers are School Property All lockers assigned to students are the property of the Huda School. At no time does the school relinquish its exclusive control of its lockers. The school principal or his/her designee shall have custody of all combinations to all lockers or locks. Legitimate use of School Lockers The school assigns lockers to its students for the students' convenience and temporary use. Students are to use lockers exclusively to store school-related materials and authorized personal items such as outer garments, footwear, grooming aids, or lunch. Students shall not use the lockers for any other purpose, unless specifically authorize d by school board policy or the school principal or his/her designee, in advance of pupils bringing the items to school. Students are solely responsible for the contents of their lockers and should not share their lockers with other pupils (unless specifically assigned to do so), nor divulge locker combinations to other students, unless authorized by the school principal or his/her designee. Search of Locker Contents Random searches of school lockers and their contents have a positive impact on deterring violations of school rules and regulations, ensure proper maintenance of school property, and provide greater safety and security for pupils and personnel. Accordingly, the board authorizes the school principal or his/her designee to search lockers and locker contents at any time, without notice, and without parental/guardianship or pupil consent. The school principal or his/her designee shall not be obligated, but may request the assistance of a law enforcement officer in conducting a locker search. The school principal or his/her designee shall supervise the search. In the course of a locker search, the school principal or his/her designee shall respect the privacy rights of the pupil regarding any items discovered that are not illegal or against school policy and rules. Seizure When conducting locker searches, the school principal or his/her designee may seize any illegal or unauthorized items, items in violation of board policy or rules, or any other items reasonably determined by the school principal or his/her designee to be a potential threat to the safety or security of others. Such items include, but are not limited to the following: firearms, explosives, dangerous weapons, flammable material, illegal controlled substances or controlled substance analogues or other intoxicants, contraband, poisons, and stolen property. Law enforcement officials shall be notified immediately upon seizure of such dangerous items or seizure of items that schools are required to report to law enforcement agencies under the Statewide School Safety Information Policy. Any items seized by the school principal or his/her designee shall be removed from the locker and held by school officials for evidence in disciplinary proceedings and/or turned over to law enforcement officials. The parent/guardian of a minor pupil shall be notified by the school principal or his/her designee of items removed from the locker. 39 DRESS CODE As an Islamic and private school, we stress the importance of cleanliness and dressing modestly. Students in Kindergarten through 8th grade are required to wear the school uniform. However, this is optional for Pre-school students. All teachers will enforce the dress code. Dress Code Policy 1. Students must wear their uniforms every day, unless given prior permission by the Principal as a reward. 2. Students must dress in a clean and neat manner. 3. Students must not wear clothing or objects that will bring extreme attention to them, such as pictures, characters, or un-Islamic slogans. 4. Students are not allowed to wear shorts. 5. Gym clothing is only allowed on scheduled Gym days. 6. Students must not wear form fitting clothing. 7. Students must wear socks or stockings at all times. 8. No make-up is allowed, including fingernail polish. 9. No earrings that hang below the ear lobe. 10. It is the School Board policy that all girls in 5 th – 8th grade wear hijab at all times during the school day, during after school activities, and field trips. Note: All female students in 1st grade through 8th grade must wear a scarf covering their hair during salah time. UNIFORM POLICY All students must be in uniform based on the dress code policy this policy includes female students (grades 1-4) wearing scarves during Salah times. The following consequences will result in reference to each “out of uniform referral” from the homeroom teacher: 1st Infraction: Teacher will send an Out of Uniform Referral Form to the parents and assign lunch detention to the student. 2nd Infraction: Teacher will send an Out of Uniform Referral Form to the school administrator and parents will receive a phone call from the administrator along with an after-school detention for the student. 3rd Infraction: Teacher will send an Out of Uniform Referral Form to the Principal and parents will receive a phone call and child will be sent home. Your child will wait in the office until you arrive and meet with the school principal. Child may return to school with proper uniform. Extra and Winter Clothing Students are sent out for recess everyday except during rain and thunderstorms, or when the temperature is below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, including the wind chill factor. Students must have proper winter clothing including a coat, hat, mitten/ gloves, and waterproof boots. Preschool children must have an extra full change of clothing kept at the school. The following are the requirements for Huda School uniforms: Girls (KG- 4th): Gym Pants on Gym days. Slacks: khaki colored dress pants (darker version of the beige family) 40 Blouse: Long sleeve or short sleeve polo shirt with Huda logo (Shirts must be purchased from PTO) Sweater: Navy blue with Huda logo (from authorized vendor only) Socks/ Tights: White or navy blue solid color Scarves: White (only during salah time) Shoes: Black, brown, or athletic (no sandals) Girls (5th -8th) Gym pants on gym days Pants: khaki colored dress pants (darker version of the beige family) Blouse: Long sleeve tunic shirt with Huda logo (from authorized vendor only). Shirts should be loose-fitting. 5th Grade Girls can wear regular Huda Polo Sweater: Navy blue with Huda logo (from authorized vendor only) Socks/ Tights: white or navy blue solid color Scarves: White only with navy/ white (amta--under the scarf piece) Shoes: Black, brown, or athletic (no sandals) Boys (KG- 8th) Pants: khaki colored dress pants (darker version of the beige family) Shirts: Navy blue polo shirt with Huda logo (from authorized vendor only) Sweater: Navy blue with Huda logo (from authorized vendor only) Socks: White or navy blue solid color Shoes: Black, brown, or athletic (no sandals) Gym Uniform Students are expected to dress in gym uniform on gym days, which consists of the following: Sweatshirt: Navy blue Sweatpants: Navy blue (side stripes can be either white, gray or navy) Shirts: Navy blue Gym shirt purchased from the PTA or Huda logo shirt (Long sleeve tunic top required for 5th-8th grade girls.) Socks: White or navy blue Shoes: Athletic shoes Grooming The length of fingernails shall be an acceptable length so that they do not interfere with the student’s abilities to complete assigned work. Extravagant hair-dos, and hair sculptors are prohibited, as are tattoos, face-painting and body painting. Students should be aware that any form of dress not covered by the foregoing guidelines is unacceptable if it creates a distraction in the classroom. Students should also be aware that the Principal exercises final authority in determining whether dress and grooming are appropriate or not. This dress code is subject to change at the discretion of the Principal. Parents and students will be notified of the changes. Hat Policy STUDENTS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO WEAR HATS AT HUDA SCHOOL. Hats of any type are not to be worn in classrooms, hallways, and lunchroom, or during assemblies. 41 SCHOOL CELL PHONE POLICY Huda School prohibits the use of all communication devices, which in its opinion, have limited or no educational value or their use creates learner distraction and disruption. Devices not allowed on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities include but are not limited to, two-way radios and pagers, as well as PDA’s and laptops with two-way messaging capabilities. Huda School reserves the right to define the educational value of any new electronic wireless communication devices that may become available to the general public in the future and to prohibit their use if they have little or no educational value or if such use creates learner distraction or disruption. First Offense: verbal warning/pick-up cell phone at the end of the school day Second Offense: student will be assigned an after school detention/parent contact/phone released to parent after detention has been served. Third Offense: Student will serve ½ day in school suspension /parent contact/phone released to parent after detention has been served. Fourth Offense: Student will serve 1-2 days of in-school suspension/parent contact/phone released to parent. Possession of Electronic Communications Devices Students may carry a cell phone to school and sponsored activities. All items must be turned off. Use of Devices on School Grounds Students may use cell phones before and after school on the school sidewalks or field as long as they do not create a distraction or disruption. Use of cell phones during the school day is absolutely prohibited and they should be turned completely off and kept out of sight. Cell phone usage is not allowed on any other portion of the school campus at any time, including school-sponsored activities unless an emergency situation, as defined by District staff, exists. Use of Devices on Charter Buses Cell phone usage by students while riding to and from school on the bus, or on the bus during schoolsponsored activities is at the discretion of the bus driver or coordinator of event. Distracting behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated Use of Electronic Devices for Entertainment Huda School prohibits the use of iPods, MP3 players, CD players, Game Boys and related electronic/media games and or toys. Parents must request permission of other users If a student wishes to use a cell phone at an unauthorized time, his/her parent of guardian must submit a written request for permission to the school Principal. Valuable Merchandise Students must not bring valuable items to school. This will prevent the loss or theft of such items. Huda School WILL NOT BE HELD LIABLE FOR THE LOSS OF PERSONAL ITEMS. CONFISCATED MATERIALS MUST BE PICKED UP BY PARENTS ONLY! 42 HEALTH AND SAFETY Immunization Michigan State Law, Part 92, Act 368, requires all children enrolling in a public, private, or parochial school to have a Certificate of Adequate Immunization for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, and Hepatitis B, and in some cases tuberculosis. Parents must provide documented evidence of all immunizations no later than the first day of school. No child will be permitted to attend school unless he/she is fully immunized or has begun his/her immunization schedule. The only exception to these requirements is for children whose immunizations are medically contra-indicated or children whose parents file each year a written objection based upon religious or philosophical objections. Consult the principal or office staff for any questions. Physicals Policy A statement for the current school year certifying that a student has passed a physical examination and is physically able to compete in athletic/sports practices and contents, must be on file in order for a student to participate in-school or after-school physical education and athletic activities. No student shall be eligible to participate in sports club or related athletic activities for whom there is not on file in the office, a statement for the current school year certifying that the student has passed a physical examination and is physically able to compete in athletic practices and contests. The physical examination form must be signed by the M.D., D.O., Physician’s Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner who administers the physical examination. A statement for the current school year is interpreted as any physical examination given on or after April 15 of the previous school year. In cases of serious injury or extended illness, students should be re-examined by a physician (M.D. or D.O.) before being allowed to compete again. Emergency Cards Michigan State Law requires that a complete and current emergency information card for each student be on file and readily available. Emergency cards must be complete by the first day of school, before students are allowed to enter class. It is the responsibility of the parents to notify the school secretary immediately if there is a change of address, telephone number, or any important medical information. Parents’ home, work, and cellular phone numbers must be provided, if applicable. These must be kept up-to-date in order to notify parents or designated adults in case of an illness, accident, injury, or emergency dismissal of students from school. Health Problems To protect other students, faculty, and staff from health hazards, any students with contagious illnesses (such as the flu, virus, bad cold, or fever) should not attend school. If a child is vomiting or exhibits other symptoms of illness, he/she should remain at home for the day. Any student that vomits or is running a fever while at school, will be sent home. If your child remains at home because of illness, please call the office to notify the school of the excused absence. If a child becomes ill during the school day, the school will contact you to come to the school and take the child home. Upon return to school, your child should bring a doctor’s note or a note from the parent noting the illness. It is the responsibility of the parent to inform the office and the child’s teacher in writing of any allergies, long-term health problems, or medical conditions which may need attention while at school. This should be included in the Emergency Card. Doctor recommended directions for immediate action or First Aid and should be provided in writing. 43 Administration of Medication School policy prohibits school faculty and staff from administering any medication (even aspirin or acetaminophen) to students without the written permission from the parents. If a child is recovering from an illness and medication needs to be administered, the following procedures must be complied with: 1. 2. 3. Instructions for administering the medication must be supplied by the physician and kept on file in the office. This note is in addition to the label from the pharmacy and must clearly indicate the quantity of medication, the time of day it is to be given, and for what duration of time it should be given. The medication must stay in the original container supplied by the pharmacy and left in the locked First Aid cabinet. The medication will be administered by designated office staff only. Students are not permitted to keep medication with them during the school day. Illness and Injury If an illness, accident, or injury occurs at the school, the office will be immediately notified. If it is a minor injury, it will be treated at the office and the students will be sent back to class. If it requires parents or medical attention, we will make the student comfortable and contact the parents to pick up the student. If there is no response at home or at the parents’ place of employment, we will call the emergency contact number provided on the Emergency Card. If no one can be reached, we will contact the family doctor for directions. If the nature of the injury or illness is of serious nature, 911 will be called and the child will be transported to the nearest hospital. The parent will be notified as soon as possible. Communicable Diseases If a student is sent home with a suspected communicable disease, the school must report it to the local health department. If your child is kept home because of this, please report it to the school office so that we may notify other students and parents. Students with a communicable disease must be excluded from classes and cannot be readmitted without written approval from the Public Health Department or family doctor. Please refer to the Oakland County Health Division- Communicable Disease reference Chart for the type of disease and the exclusion period from school. It is strongly recommended that the student be kept home after a bout with the flu for at least 24 hours after his/ her temperature returns to normal. Students should not be sent to school with an elevated temperature. If a student must stay in at recess, or be excused from physical education, a note from their doctor must be given to the school, stating the reason and the length of time excused. Lice According to the Michigan Head Lice Manual, active infestations are defined as “the presence of live lice or nits found within ¼ inch of the scalp.” Children are excluded from school until the first treatment is completed and no nits are found on the scalp or within ¼ inch from the scalp. If you discover your child has lice, immediate precautionary steps must be taken. A special shampoo can be purchased from a pharmacy and instructions must be followed properly. Remove nits every evening, in addition to the shampooing. To be on the safe side, wash your child’s bed linens, hats, coats, and anything else that comes in contact with their head. Your family physician and local Health Department will be able to help you if you have further questions regarding the treatment and removal of lice. School officials will routinely have scheduled head lice checks. 44 Lunch and Snacks Parents are responsible for providing their child(ren)’s daily lunch and snacks. We strongly discourage “junk” and “empty calorie” foods. Studies have shown that a “child’s performance in school is directly affected by the types of food he/she eats.” Child Abuse and Neglect Huda School is required to report all cases of suspected child abuse or neglect to the Michigan Department of Social Services. All school employees and volunteers are required to follow the guidelines of this law. SAFETY AND SECURITY Security Measures The following security measures are being enforced at Huda School to ensure the safety of the students: 1. 2. 3. 4. All outside doors in each building are to be locked at all times (Do not place rocks or other items next to door to keep them open). All visitors to the schools must report to the main office for a visitor's pass. All rooms/offices that are not in use in the buildings are to be kept locked at all times. 24 hour surveillance cameras, records all activities in the hallways and prayer hall Elementary Safety Precautions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Discuss safety regulations with your children. Remind children to remain well on the shoulder of the road when walking in the parking lot. Be sure your child faces traffic when walking. Remind your child to stay well off the road while waiting for a ride and or bus. All of us should be more alert while driving during the times when children are on the move. We take students out-of-doors for noon recess whenever the area is safe or when the weather is fit, please dress your children accordingly. Jewelry should not be worn at any time on school grounds. Visitor Policy Huda School allows parents and others to visit its school building. However, the School has a legitimate interest in avoiding disruption to school operations and protecting the safety and welfare of its students and staff. Limitations may be placed on visitors to avoid disruption in school operations. The principal and/or director shall have the authority to determine which visits are to be permitted as well as the discretion to set any appropriate conditions on the nature and extent of such visits. Rules for Visits to Huda School A. General Requirements for Visitors to Schools: 1. A visitor is defined as any person seeking to enter the school building who is not an employee of the school or a student not enrolled in Huda School. 2. All visitors shall report to the school offices when arriving or leaving the school premises. Whenever possible, visitors should obtain authorization from the principal in advance. At the discretion of the Administration, such prior authorization may be required. Prior authorization is required by all student visitors. 3. Visits may be prohibited at certain times such as the first and last weeks of school, immediately before or after vacations or other breaks and/or while authorized testing or other student assessments are being conducted. 4. All school visitors must comply at all times with Huda School policies. 45 B. Exceptions to Visitor Requirements: Parents of Huda students, and other student visitors, who have been invited to visit school as part of a scheduled open house, special event, scheduled performance by a class, team, or group, or other adult participants in organized and school approved activities during off school hours are exempt from requirement A. 2-4 above. C. Visitors to Classrooms or Other Instructional Areas Access to particular classrooms or other instructional areas may be restricted upon the recommendation of the teacher in charge, or as otherwise deemed necessary by the Administration. D. Student Visitors 1. All requirements for visitors apply to students with additional considerations to be applied at the discretion of the Administration. Under most circumstances, student visitors are discouraged. Prior authorization is required by all student visitors. 2. No student who is under out-of-school suspension, expulsion, or other form of discipline from this or any other school district shall be permitted to visit Huda School. Such students must have obtained expressed prior approval of the principal before entering and are restricted to the school office for the duration of their presence in the building. E. The Administration has the authority to exclude from the school premises any person who disrupts or who appears likely to become a disruption to school operations. Any such individual shall be directed to leave the school premises immediately and law enforcement authorities shall be called if necessary. Volunteer Policy It is the intent of Huda School to foster, support and encourage volunteer activities throughout school programs. Volunteers can promote community involvement in schools while at the same time providing significant services to students, employees, and school programs by supplementing, but not substituting for the work of employees. Typical volunteer opportunities include clerical work, assisting employees with assigned instructional and co-curricular programs, and helping with the supervision of students, either working directly with school personnel or independently. Specific volunteer assignments are arranged for and directly supervised by teachers and various program supervisors, under the direction of an administrator. Individuals who are interested in volunteering in the school are invited to contact the main office personnel who would be able to answer your questions regarding the volunteer program, and who would help you to become a volunteer. All volunteers must sign-in as volunteers in the log available in the main office. Volunteers working with the children in our Toddler Care and Preschool Programs must be cleared of FBI and Criminal History Checks at the expense of the volunteer. Volunteer registration forms are available in the office. All volunteers are expected to adhere to the school policies, procedures and professional dress code. Parental Misconduct Huda School personnel shall seek to assure that parents and other visitors are courteously received and that sincere efforts are made to assist them. It is just as important that parents conduct themselves in a decent and respectful manner when engaging with Huda School administration and staff. This Islamic code of conduct shall include, but is not limited to, the following: (1) (2) (3) (4) Use appropriate and respectful language. Be tactful and respectful with your tone of voice. Respectfully ask for help and wait patiently for it to arrive. Do not use intimidating, threatening or harassing language, under any circumstances. All behavior must be reflective of an Islamic code of manners. Huda School recognizes and encourages a healthy and nurturing environment and understands these objectives require the active participation of administration, staff, students as well as parents who all share these common goals. Parental conduct must 46 be in compliance with established and accepted Islamic rules of etiquette. Violation of this policy will be addressed by the EC on a case by case basis. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES School will remain in session until 3:40 pm unless there is an emergency in the building or when inclement weather develops after school is in session. Huda School follows the guidelines of Birmingham Public Schools (BPS) concerning school closing. When BPS are closed due to severe weather conditions, Huda School is closed. The decision to close the school is made as early as possible, usually before 6:30 am, or later if there is a sudden change in the weather. When Huda School closes due to an emergency the following steps will be followed: 1-All Huda families will be notified by receiving a phone call using the school “phone chain”. 2- An announcement will be posted on the school website, and a text message will be sent. 3- Parents will receive an email from the school. 4- When closed due to inclement weather, an announcement will be made on local TV stations. Off Campus Emergencies Even on a trip to the zoo, teachers must be ready for any emergency. In the event of an off-campus emergency, both teachers and bus drivers have step-by-step instructions to follow. Depending on the type of crisis, 911 is called and first responders will oversee all medical and safety needs if necessary. Phone calls are then made to the school principal and district transportation department. Contacts to families will follow. Student safety is always a top priority even when off campus. Lockdown (2 per Year) In the event that a safe environment is not feasible (i.e. campus intruder or other potential threat), the Principal and Director of Academic and Student Affairs will make a decision to go to “lock down”. This announcement over the intercom alerts all faculty and staff to take action. The following guidelines are in place to prepare for lock down. Staff will be running 2 drills a year. Teachers have been asked to keep their classroom door locks in the “locked position”. In the event of a lock down, this eliminates searching for keys. To better prepare for a lock down, the school will begin taking part in scheduled drills. After the lock down announcement, every student, faculty/staff member and campus visitor finds a secure place behind locked doors. They remain there until the ‘all-clear” announcement is given. Depending on the emergency, faculty and staff members may contact the office if they have vital information about campus safety or the health of a student. School administration will call 911 if campus safety reaches a level where students, staff and visitors are in direct danger. Campus visitor, faculty and staff members are not to use cell phones or other communication devices to contact the outside during a lock down. School emergency information must come from designated school officials. Fire and Tornado Drills Huda School will have regular Fire and Tornado drills throughout the school year. Please reinforce with your child the importance of following staff direction during such drills, for their safety and the safety of others. 47 Fire Drills (6 per year) Students must leave the building silently and in a single-file line according to the floor plan posted in each classroom. Once outside, students must wait quietly in the parking lot assigned within the building complex. Students must remain in line with their class and teacher until an all-clear signal is given. Teachers will then allow the students to re-enter the building in an orderly fashion. Tornado Drills (2 per year) Students will travel silently in a single-file line with their class to the designated area of the building via posted exits. Students will be asked to sit in a head-down position until the drill is completed. Students must remain in line with their class and teacher in the designated tornado area until an allclear signal is given by a designated staff member. Teachers will then allow students to travel back to the classroom, in an orderly fashion, to resume classes. STUDENT SERVICES Hearing and Vision Screening The Oakland County Health Department will provide free hearing and vision tests for students at the school each Fall according to the following schedule: Hearing: Preschool, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, and 4th Grade Vision: Preschool, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, and 7th Grade Students in other grades may be given a hearing or vision test upon the recommendation of the teacher. Textbooks Textbooks are property of Huda School and are on loan to the students for the school year. Workbooks are consumable and are purchased for various subjects. Students are held responsible for the condition of all textbooks and library books checked out to them. All textbooks must be returned in good condition at the end of the school year. A charge will be assessed if these books are lost or torn. The fine for damaged or lost books usually ranges from $10 to $30 depending upon the cost and the condition of the book. Fines that are not paid by the end of the year will result in the school withholding the student’s report card. Lost and Found Unclaimed items found on school premises should be taken to the Lost and Found. The Lost and Found bin is located on the first floor. If items are not claimed within 2 weeks, they will be given away. Home and School Relations Huda School and Montessori strives to maintain a close communication between the home and the school through EdLine. Parents are encouraged to attend school events to build a stronger home-school relationship. Parent Concerns Should a parent have a concern regarding their child and wish to speak to the teacher, he/she is requested to contact the school and schedule an appointment, or to request a note or phone call from the teacher. The office staff will not disturb the teacher or student during class time. Should a student or a parent have a specific concern, every effort will be made to resolve it on a one-to-one basis. The following are the steps, or chain of command for resolving a problem: 1. Student meets with teacher 48 2. Student and parent meet with teacher and/ or counselor 3. Student and parent meet with teacher, counselor, and Principal 4. Written appeal submitted to the Executive Committee. Messages The office will deliver messages to students only in case of emergency. Every effort should be made to limit the number of messages to students. Parent Organization The Parent Organization works on behalf of its members, to help unite parents, teachers and the community for the common good of all children. Together, members can create a healthy, nurturing environment for improving opportunities for all children and youth. We look forward to supporting many outstanding activities here at Huda to help create a greater bond between school and family. The Huda PO offers funding for learning supplies, supplies for staff, and school improvements. Huda PO has funded many school improvements, such as the new playground, hot lunches, lunch tables, trays, fans for classrooms, copy machine, laminating machine and much more. Membership is open to parents of all enrolled students. The PO serves the following purposes: 1. 2. 3. To provide a forum for constructive communication between parents, teachers, administrators, and community members. To foster awareness among parents of the need for their participation in the total education of their children. To sponsor fundraising activities to promote the development of the school’s resources and thus enhance its educational program. All functions carried out by the PO will be coordinated with and approved by the school Principal. Holiday Celebrations Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha are both celebrated at Huda School. The school does not permit the celebration of non-Islamic holidays in school. Birthday celebrations should be brief, so as not to interfere with classroom instruction. Parking Lot Procedures When picking up or dropping off your child(ren), please note the schedule in the Arrival and Dismissal section on this Handbook. Please remain in your car, in line, and wait for your child(ren) to come out of the building. Cars must not be left unattended, as they will block the way of others. Please do not ask children to cross between cars. Please do not drop off your child(ren) in the circle area and allow them to walk unsupervised to the building through traffic. Anyone who is picking up or dropping off students in any sort of car pool arrangement must notify the office ahead of time. This will allow the school to release your child(ren) to other involved parents in that group if necessary. Any special requests to ride with someone else, must be submitted in advance in writing with the parent’s signature. A student will not be allowed to go without the letter and a pass from the office. Last minute requests cannot be accepted. Solicitation No solicitation by students for any purpose other than school related activities should be allowed. No person, including those employed by Huda School, will be permitted to solicit business from, or conduct personal business with a teacher during school hours; neither will the student be permitted to approach teachers about appointments in school or on the grounds during school hours. 49 No person except those approved by the Principal shall be permitted to enter any school for the purpose of selling to students, or school personnel. Advertising matter seeking contributions from teachers or students shall not be displayed on or about school buildings unless for educational or charitable purposes approved by the Principal. The principal must approve free advertising materials before distribution to students. Student Sales Students may not sell any items at the school or school functions unless they do so for school-sponsored fund-raisers or with the written permission from the Principal or his/her “designee.” If any student is caught selling items for personal gain he/she will receive a disciplinary action. Fundraising Projects All money raising activities must be sanctioned by the building principal. Classes and organizations may submit requests for approval of such projects to the principal on the designated form. All activities coordinators must report and comply with accounting guidelines and procedures. Invitations to Private Parties Any kind of invitation distribution requires Principal’s approval and may be subject to certain restrictions. Use of Huda School Building and Grounds Only students involved in after school activities will be allowed to remain on school grounds, under the supervision of the staff member overseeing the activity. Siblings, not involved in the after school activity, cannot be left unsupervised on school grounds. It is the parents’ responsibility to bring children to activities and to pick them up on time. The school is not responsible for the safety of any children on school property after regular school hours, unless involved in an approved after school activity. 50