Abelardo Batista
School Leader
T 480.924.1500
F 480.924.0552
www.vistagroveprep.com
2014-2015 School Year
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PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy welcomes and encourages parent involvement. We recognize
the essential role that meaningful parental involvement plays in creating and maintaining effective
learning environments. Meaningful parental involvement is achieved when parents participate in
supporting the instructional program, are involved in school-related decision making, and parents
support school-related activities. Vista Grove Preparatory Academy continuously works to
achieve this goal in order to meet Federal and State requirements. Vista Grove Preparatory
Academy has developed a Parent Involvement Policy in collaboration with parents. This policy is
available for your review upon request at the school office and on the school website.
Opportunities for meaningful parent involvement are provided through:
 Annual Title I Advisory meetings
 Opportunities to volunteer to serve on school councils/committees
 Communication vehicles such as school newsletter, school website, written description of
programs, and information from annual Title I meetings.
 Seeking parental input through parent surveys
 Annual recommitment by parents, students, and teachers to the Parent-Student-School
Compact
As part of the Title I Parent Involvement Policy, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy has developed
a compact outlining how parents, school staff, and students will share responsibility for improving
student achievement. School compacts will be reviewed and revised annually, as necessary.
Parent-Student-School Compact
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy and the parents of students participating in activities, services,
and programs funded by Title I, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA),
agree that this compact outlines how the parents, the entire school staff, and the students will
share the responsibility for improved student academic achievement and the means by which the
school and parents will build and develop a partnership that will help children achieve the State’s
high standards.
This compact is in effect during the student’s enrollment with Vista Grove Preparatory Academy.
Parent Responsibilities
The Parent will:
 The Parents will contact the school with any concerns over attendance, behavior or academic
completion.
 The Parents will contact their individual student, during regular class hours, through the school
office only.
Student Responsibilities
The Student will:
 Students will accept the responsibility of maintaining a safe, secure learning environment by
accepting this code of conduct.
 Students will not use, sell, or participate in any illegal use of drugs, tobacco or alcohol.
 Students will avoid and refrain from all gang related activities: hand signs, clothing, jewelry,
graffiti, or any other actions or behavior.
 Students will not gamble in any way shape or form – playing cards, dice, or any other related
gambling material.
 Students will not carry weapons or any look-alikes or replicas of weapons.
 Students will have no phones or electronic devices in any class at any time.
 Students will not fight or participate in any confrontational behavior at any time with anybody.
 Students will attend classes on time and be permitted to leave campus with parent/guardian
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permission only.
School Responsibilities
The School will:
 The School will provide a safe, secure environment on a closed campus with adequate security.
 The School will employ a staff that is well trained and certified in maintaining a safe, educational
environment.
PARENT’S RIGHT TO KNOW
The following information will be provided to you during the school year or upon your request and
in a timely manner:
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Whether your child’s teacher has met state qualification and certification/licensing criteria
for the grade levels and subject area in which the teacher provides instruction.
Whether your child’s teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status
through which state qualification or certification/licensing criteria has been waived.
The bachelor’s degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or
degree held by the teacher, and the field of study/discipline of the certification or degree.
Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.
Information on your child’s achievement level in each of the state tests
You also will receive timely notice if your child, for whatever reason, is being taught for four or
more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified. A highly qualified teacher is
defined by state law as a teacher who is certified/licensed and teaching in the grade level or
subject area of certification/licensure.
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent/Teacher Conferences are held at a minimum of twice during the school year. Teachers will
contact parents on dates and times that parents/guardians can choose from to meet with their
student’s teacher.
REGISTRATION
Registration is open throughout the school year. To enroll students, parents or legal guardians
must provide:
 An original birth certificate with the state seal or an affidavit explaining the inability to
provide a copy of the birth certificate
 Current Immunization Records
 The address of previous school for records request (if applicable)
 Proof of residency Examples: Driver’s license, Utility bill, lease/purchase agreement with
your name and address. We cannot accept a check as proof of residency.
Open Enrollment
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy has an open-enrollment policy in accordance with A.R.S. § 15184. A copy of the full open-enrollment policy is available for your review upon request from the
school office.
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy does not discriminate in its admissions or enrollment practices
on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, gender, income level, disability,
English proficiency or athletic ability.
Failure to disclose accurate, complete, and truthful information on the enrollment application may
result in revocation or removal from enrollment.
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Pursuant to A.R.S 15-184(F), Vista Grove Preparatory Academy may refuse to admit any pupil
who has been expelled from another educational institution or who is in the process of being
expelled from another educational institution.
Admission to Kindergarten
To register for kindergarten for the current school year, children must turn 5 prior to September 1.
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy does not make age exceptions for kindergarten enrollment.
All kindergarten students must be 5 prior to September 1st of the current school year to be
eligible for kindergarten enrollment.
Admission to First Grade
To register for first grade, children must be 6 years old before September 1 of the current school
year.
Insurance
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy and The Leona Group, L. L. C. is in compliance with insurance
as required by the Arizona Department of Education. The school does not carry insurance for
students' medical or dental costs if they are injured during school activities. It is the responsibility
of the parent/guardian to provide insurance for their child.
Custody and Guardianship
In most cases, both parents shall be given reasonable access to their children at school and to their
children's official school records.
Exceptions to this will be made in cases where the court orders restricting the rights of one parent to access
a child and/or child's record.
 It shall be the responsibility of the parent who has the court order restricting the rights of
the other parent to notify school officials of the conditions and to provide school officials
with a current copy of the court order.
 In cases in which a person other than the parent has been granted guardianship, the legal guardian
shall be responsible for notifying school officials of the conditions of the guardianship and for
providing school officials with all pertinent written documentation of changes.
 A parent who lives out of state/country and wants student records must request these records from
the Principal/School Leader in writing.
RELEASE OF STUDENT RECORDS AND DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are
18 years of age or older ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education
records. These rights are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days after the
day the Vista Grove Preparatory Academy receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that
identifies the records they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for
access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records
may be inspected
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or
eligible student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the
student’s privacy rights under FERPA.
Parents or eligible students who wish to ask Vista Grove Preparatory Academy to amend
a record should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want
changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the
record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or
eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for
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amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to
the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable
information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA
authorizes disclosure without consent.
One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials
with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school
as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or
medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school
board. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school
who performs an institutional service of function for which the school would otherwise use
its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the
use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical
consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official
committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other
volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official
has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in
order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another
school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure
is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged
failures by Vista Grove Preparatory Academy to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202
Directory Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Vista
Grove preparatory Academy, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the
disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However,
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy may disclose appropriately designated “directory
information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in
accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy to include this type of information from your child’s
education records in certain school publications. Examples include:
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A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
The annual yearbook;
Honor roll or other recognition lists;
Graduation programs; and
Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion
of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior
written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that
manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local
educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following
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information – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA
that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. 1
If you do not want Vista Grove Preparatory Academy to disclose directory information from
your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in
writing within ten days of enrollment, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy has designated
the following information as directory information: [Note: an LEA may, but does not have to,
include all the information listed below PLEASE REVIEW.]
-Student’s name
-Address
-Telephone listing
-Electronic mail address
-Photograph
-Date and place of birth
-Major Field of study
-Dates of attendance
-Grade level
-Participation in officially
recognized activities and sports
-Weight and height of members of
athletic teams
-Degrees, honors, and awards
received
-The most recent educational agency or
institution attended
-Student ID number, user ID, or other unique
personal identifier used to communicate in
electronic systems that cannot be used to access
education records without a PIN, password, etc.
(A student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be
used for this purpose.)
ATTENDANCE
Attendance and academic success are highly correlated; therefore Vista Grove Preparatory Academy
adheres to strict attendance and tardy policies. If a student accrues ten consecutive absences he or she will
be withdrawn from the school. Students who are withdrawn from the school he or she may re-enroll, if
space permits, and continue his or her education at the start of the next term.
Absences
If an illness or emergency occurs that keeps the student from attending school, the parent/guardian must
contact the school daily and explain the reason for missing classes. When the student returns, a
doctors/written excuse must be handed in at time of return, if not the student will be marked unexcused.
The student is responsible for completing all missing work accrued during absence to maintain grade point
average. Vista Grove Preparatory Academy recommends that the student have no absences.
If an extended absence should occur, the parent/guardian must contact the school administration to discuss
the circumstances. Based on circumstances, the Administration will provide the options available to the
student. In some cases, this may involve the student not receiving credit for the current block.
All absences must be phoned into the school office by the parent/guardian of the student. If the school does
not receive a phone call by the parent/guardian regarding the student’s absence and the nature of the
absence, then the school will notify the parent. Non-excused absences are considered truant.
Excused vs. Unexcused Absences
An excused absence simply identifies that the parent or guardian knew that the student was absent and has
notified the school. All absences, including excused absences, count against the total number of absences
allowed.
Tardy Policy
We believe that educational time is valuable and that students arriving late to class unfairly cause the
teacher and other students to lose some of this valuable educational time. As a result, we are committed to
encouraging students to arrive to school on time and we have instituted the following tardy policy:
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These laws are: Section 9528 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (20 U.S.C. § 7908) and
10 U.S.C. § 503(c).
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Students arriving late to class must have parent/guardian sign into the office and obtain a tardy pass.
Students will be counted tardy to school regardless of the reason.
Students can be tardy to a class two (2) times per quarter without penalty. For perfect attendance awards,
five tardies or five early releases will count as an absence.
Absence Policy
In order for students to be promoted, they must attend 90% of the school year. For students enrolling at the
beginning of the year, this means they must attend 162 of the scheduled 180 school days. This allows for a
maximum of 18 absences.
CUTS Program
Vista Grove does implement the CUTS program in partnership with Maricopa County Juvenile Court.
School attendance is not only a good habit, state law requires it. Arizona State Law (15-802, A, 15-803, E)
requires every person who has custody of a child between the ages of six and sixteen years shall make sure
the child attends school for the full time school is in session unless unable to attend due to illness or another
legitimate reason.
Grade Reductions due to Absences Up to and Including Repeating a Grade
Level
Our experience shows that students who have poor attendance generally also have poor grade performance
as well as lower than grade level achievement. Grade reductions as well as repeating a grade level, in this
sense, are a natural consequence of attendance. The more students attend school the higher the grades and
the better their learning and achievement at grade level or above.
Suspensions
Teachers are to provide suspended students with the same education opportunities as other students. This
means that all suspended students must be given a fair opportunity to complete all work missed during their
suspension.
After School
All Students are welcome on campus after school with prior arrangement with their teachers and
parent/guardian. Vista Grove will be engaging in enrichment classes for the students to participate in while
on campus. The campus remains a closed campus after school. The same rules and standards used during
school are in force after school.
Transfers and Withdrawals
If you plan to move, let the school know at least three days in advance, in writing. The school will prepare
transfer materials to help the student get started at a new school.
Reporting an Absence
All absences must be phoned into the school office by the parent/guardian of the student. If the school does
not receive a phone call by the parent/guardian regarding the student’s absence and the nature of the
absence, then the school will notify the parent. Non-excused absences are considered truant.
Homework Requests During Absence
Teachers are to provide absent students with the same education opportunities as other students. This
means that all absent students must be given a fair opportunity to complete all work missed during their
absents
Signing Students In and Out
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For the safety and protection of the student, a student will only be released from the classroom before the
regular dismissal time when the parent comes to the office and signs the child out.
 Students will not be released on the basis of a telephone call.
Students will only be released to persons authorized by the parent/guardian and those individuals specified
on the Emergency Information Card. For a student to be released to anyone other than those listed on the
Emergency Information Card, the school will require specific written authorization from parent/guardian
Students who need to leave early must be excused by a guardian through contact with the front office. You
must contact the office by 2:00pm Monday-Thursday, and 12:00pm on Fridays. Vista Grove Preparatory
Academy is a closed campus. Students are not permitted to leave campus during the school day without
administrative and parent approval and released only to an authorized adult.
SCHOOL HOURS
School is in session from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM and from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM on Fridays.
Supervision of Students
Students shall be supervised at all times while on campus, except for passes given to students
for restroom privileges or to nurse’s office.
INSTRUCTION AND LEARNING
Uninterrupted Instructional Time
Includes, but is not limited to: refusal to perform assigned tasks, exhibiting behavior that interferes with the
teacher’s instruction or other student's ability to learn, speaking or blurting out at inappropriate times, or
moving around the classroom without permission. Disruption to the learning environment will not be
tolerated.
Assessment of Learning
Students at Vista Grove Preparatory Academy are assessed to ensure that they are acquiring
skills and being challenged academically. To measure the achievement of all students, schoolwide assessments are administered throughout the year. Each student’s performance on the
school-wide assessments is measured against his/her own previous performance. Results of
these assessments in language arts and mathematics are used to make needed programming
changes and provide additional support to students through intervention programs. Results are
also made available to teachers, parents, and students so that everyone can work together to
help ensure that all learning goals are met for every student. Students requiring special
education are administered more individualized evaluations by appropriate professionals for the
purpose of providing specialized instruction under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
The state of Arizona requires TBD State testing in grades 3-8 and Stanford 10 testing in grade 2.
The following outlines our school-wide assessments:
TEST:
DIBELS (reading) and
CBM (math)
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WHO IS TESTED:
All K-2 students
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WHAT IT IS USED FOR:
To identify students in need of
targeted reading and math
support
To assess all student growth,
within a teacher’s classroom, to
drive whole-class, small-group,
and individual instruction.
TBD State test
/Stanford 10
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3-8th grades take AIMS
2nd grades take Stanford 10
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Preparatory Academy’s
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AZELLA
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All English language
learners
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ATI/GALILEO
(reading and math)
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All enrolled students
Grades 2-10 for all three
test dates
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Additional Formative
Assessments
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Targeted students are
tested regularly to measure
progress and guide
intervention efforts.
Classroom teachers can
test their classes at will to
drive whole-class, smallgroup, and individual
instruction
To complete Vista Grove
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performance-based teacher and
leader evaluations
To demonstrate growth to AZ
Charter Board
To determine the promotion of 3rd
graders based on their reading
readiness
To identify students for English
language services, measure their
growth, and exit them out of the
program
To predict how students will
perform on AIMS and provide
targeted interventions to increase
AIMS achievement
To measure growth of students in
our school compared to other
schools in Arizona
To guide instructors and
interventionists toward
benchmark growth in GALILEO,
AIMS, and Stanford 10
To measure classroom learning
and inform re-teaching and
tutoring
Student Schedules, Teacher Assignments
Grading
Standards Based Report Cards & Questioning Grades
Standards Based Report cards will be issued four times per year. Progress reports will also be issued four times each
school year, around the middle of the grading period. The information on the standards based report card includes all
of the standards that are being taught during the grading period and the degree to which each student is achieving
based on the identified standard. Student achievement according to learner behavior will also be included on the
standards based report card.
Students and family members have the right to question the degree that a student is grasping the standard that is being
taught. Each student will have an academic portfolio that provides concrete assessments that identify the student’s
ability. When there is question, the student should first consult with his or her teacher and attempt to resolve the
matter. If a resolution is not reached, the family should address the matter with the teacher and, finally, the principal if
the matter is not resolved. Issuance of academic grades on the standards based report card (M=Meets, P=Progressing,
S=Struggling and N=Not assessed) is local school matter and every attempt to remedy the situation at the school level
should be made.
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Homework
Homework is given based on each individual teacher. Some teachers choose to give their
students some time during the end of the day to either finish work they have not during the day or
if they are finished with work they may allow them to start on their homework.
Retention Policy
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy believes that promotion is dependent upon a student’s ability to
demonstrate sufficient growth in learning required basic skills. These may include skills embedded
in Language Arts, Math & Technology, Science, and Social Studies.
New legislation as of the school year 2013-2014:
A student shall not be promoted from the third grade if the student obtains a score on the AIMS Reading test (or a
successor test) that demonstrates he or she is reading far below the third grade level.
The revised statute (A.R.S.§ 15-701) can be accessed at the following website:
http://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00701.htm
In regards to this new legislation and/or if a student is under review for retention they must go
through the Response to Intervention Team (RTI). No child will be retained if this process has
not occurred. The proper form must be completed and approved prior to retention. Parents will
always be a part of the process.
Some of the standards that are utilized to determine retention:
 Attendance
 Standardized test scores
 Teacher recommendations
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Parent request
Move on When Reading ARS §15-701
It is important to inform you of requirements in the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding the
promotion and retention of third grade students. The law states that a student shall not be
promoted from the third grade if the student obtains a score on the AIMS reading test (or a
successor test) that demonstrates he or she is reading far below the third grade level.
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Beginning in 2013-2014, there are two exemptions from ARS §15-701. In accordance with the
law, a school district or governing board or the governing body of a charter school may be
allowed to promote a pupil who earns an AIMS score that falls far below the third grade level for
any of the following reasons:
 English Language Learners or Limited English Proficient that have received less than two
years of English instruction; and
 Students with disabilities provided that the pupil’s individualized education program (IEP)
team and the pupil’s parent or guardian agree that promotion is appropriate based on the
pupil’s IEP.
The revised statute (A.R.S.§ 15-701) can be accessed at the following website:
http://www.azleg.gov/ars/15/00701.htm
If you have questions or need additional information please contact the school leader.
School Technology
Technology is a wonderful tool to assist our students in learning, researching, and preparing to
participate fully in a technology rich society. While the internet and other technology resources
provide significant opportunities for teaching and learning, they must be used responsibly. Vista
Grove Preparatory Academy provides protection from harmful material through filtering software
but the teacher and student have the ultimate responsibility for using the Internet and technology
according to school policy and guidelines.
The following assurances are made when the Internet is in use during instruction:
 Supervision will be provided at all times
 Internet safety and etiquette rules will be introduced to students prior to beginning an
Internet project
 Activities using the Internet will have a curriculum focus and well-defined purpose
 Teachers will provide instruction necessary for students to use age-appropriate search
engines and research ethically
 “Free Surfing” will not be allowed
 Direct electronic communication will be filtered by the school and closely monitored by
the teacher
 Information or student work published or submitted through the Internet is not private and
student’s names/addresses will not be published on school webpages
HEALTH INFORMATION
Immunizations
Arizona law ARS §15-872 requires that parents provide an up-to-date record of immunizations
prior to enrolling in school. The record must include the month, date, and year of your child’s
immunizations. Students without proof of immunization will be excluded from school. The
following immunizations are required for enrollment at SCHOOL NAME, contingent on age:
 Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT, DTaP, Tdap)
 Polio
 MMR #1 and MMR #2
 Haemophilus Influenzae B (HIB)
 Hepatitis A Series
 Hepatitis B Series
 Chicken Pox (Varicella) or history of disease
 Meningococcal
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Please inform the school of any immunizations that your child receives throughout the year so
that immunization records are kept current.
Arizona law ARS §15-872 provides exemptions from immunization requirements for the following:
 Medical reasons—permanent or temporary
 Personal beliefs
 Documentation of adequate immunity
Although the law allows exemptions, if an outbreak of any of the diseases covered by required
immunizations occurs, the Maricopa County Health Department may require that students who
are not immunized be excluded from school for the duration of the outbreak.
Medication
Students are not permitted to carry prescription or over-the-counter medication to and from
school or to keep it on their person while at school or when participating in any school-related
activities. The school office will accept up to a 30 day supply of medication for students to treat
an existing condition. Parents/Guardians must complete a Medication Form with the school office
prior to any medication being administered at school. The following is required for all medications
stored and administered by the school office:
 Prescription medication MUST be in its original prescription container with a pharmacy
label. Over-the-Counter medication MUST be in the original factory container clearly
stating directions and warnings. NO medications will be accepted in any other
containers, bags, envelopes, etc.
 Sample prescription medication must have a prescription by a physician attached in order
to be accepted
 A medication form must be on file for any medications to be administered at school
 All medication must be dropped off and picked up by the parent/guardian or an adult on
the Emergency Contact List ONLY
 Only medications needed to treat a current/existing ailment will be stored at the school
 Medications will be given in age/weight appropriate doses according to manufacturer’s
directions or physician’s orders on file
 For administration of Over-the-Counter medication beyond a 3 day period, a doctor’s
authorization or prescription is required
 Students requiring an inhaler or EpiPen may carry and self-administer these with written
parental consent on the Medication Form. Students who self-administer medication must
report their use to the office so that it can be recorded.
 Vista Grove Preparatory Academy reserves the right to disallow the use or administration
of any medication on school premises if the threat of abuse or misuse of the medicine
may pose a risk to any student.
Hearing and Vision Screenings
Hearing and Vision screenings are given to selected groups of students per Arizona mandate
under the guidelines of the Arizona Department of Education and Arizona Department of Health
Hearing Conservation Program. For more information on these screenings, please contact the
school office.
Medical Release to Return to School
If your student is out due to illness or injury that has been seen by a doctor, parent/guardian
must send a doctor’s release with student upon return to school.
Chronic Health Conditions
A chronic health condition is one that is not curable and/or requires continuous treatment. If your
child has a chronic illness or health condition that will cause him/her to miss school, please inform
the school office. School staff will develop a Chronic Illness Plan to ensure that absences due to
the chronic condition are not subject to school attendance policies and to provide ways to furnish
missed work or instructional materials during your child’s absences.
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EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT SERVICES
Special Education Services
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy makes available special education and related services to all
students. A continuum of services is available to meet the educational needs of all students with
disabilities.
It is the philosophy of Vista Grove Preparatory Academy and The Leona Group that all children
can access a rigorous curriculum and learn, regardless of disability. Our teachers are trained to
teach to diverse learning styles and ability levels. Special Education programming is implemented
by special education teachers who work directly in special and general education settings with
children with disabilities. Teachers work collaboratively to meet the needs of all students.
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy believes in close collaboration between general education
teachers, special education teachers, staff, and parents. This produces the best possible learning
outcomes for our exceptional students. For more information about our special education
programs, please contact the school’s special education department.
Pursuant to A.R.S. 41-1351, special education records including placement records, referrals,
evaluations, and testing data, will be destroyed five years after final enrollment of student at Vista
Grove Preparatory Academy.
ADA Section 504
Pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy has
a duty to identify, refer, evaluate and if eligible, provide a free, appropriate public education to
disabled students. For additional information about the rights of parents of eligible children, or for
answers to any questions you might have about identification, evaluation and placement into
Section 504 programs, please contact the School’s Section 504 Coordinator at (480-924-1500)
or by mail at 2929 East McKellips Road, Mesa. Arizona 85213.
CHILD FIND
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy offers comprehensive special education services to eligible
enrolled students ages 5 through 21 years and to children from birth through age 21 years who
have a suspected disability. Children from birth to age five with disabilities will be referred to
appropriate agencies for services. All referrals are considered confidential, and services are
provided at no cost. The parent, legal guardian, or surrogate parent retains the right to refuse
services and are provided other procedural safeguards under federal and state law.
Public school services include screening in areas of suspected disabilities, such as vision,
hearing, motor skills, speech, language, cognitive, academic and/or social emotional
development. Evaluations in the schools are provided for several areas of suspected disabilities,
including learning disabilities, speech and language development, physical impairments, vision or
hearing problems, cognitive impairments, emotional disturbances, autism/pervasive
developmental disorders, health impairments, developmental disabilities or traumatic brain
injuries.
A free appropriate public education with a full continuum of services is available for eligible
children with disabilities. For more information concerning eligibility criteria and referral
procedures, contact the principal or special education coordinator at Vista Grove Preparatory
Academy or call the Director of Exceptional Student Services at The Leona Group, LLC at 602953-2933.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ACQUISITION SERVICES (ELAS)
ELAS Mission: To ensure meaningful, educational opportunities for students, families and staff
that will increase the academic achievement, cultural collaboration and English literacy for
English language learners.
The Leona Group believes all students have a right to the opportunity of developing a full
command of the English language and to be provided with opportunities for English language
development.
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ELL Program Placement:
Students identified as having a Primary Home Language Other Than English (PHLOTE) as noted
on the Home Language Survey, are administered the state's language assessment, Arizona
English Language Learner Assessment (AZELLA.) Program placement is determined based on a
student's overall composite scaled AZELLA score. Students with an overall proficient AZELLA
score are exited or not placed in an ELL program. Students with an overall non-proficient
AZELLA score are placed in the school's ELL program and are provided with English language
development support and services.
State Policy:
 Arizona law requires schools to teach English. (A.R.S. §15-752. English language
education)
 Arizona law requires materials and subject matter instruction to be in English. (A.R.S.
§15-751. Definitions, 5 and A.R.S. §15-752)
 Arizona law requires English language learners to be grouped together in a structured
English immersion setting. (A.R.S. §15-751. Definitions, 5)
 The goal set forth in Arizona law is for ELLs to become fluent English proficient in a year.
(A.R.S. §15- 752. English language education)
 Arizona law requires a minimum of four hours per day of English language development
during the first year a pupil is classified as an ELL. (A.R.S. §15.756.01 Arizona English
language learners task force; research based models of structured English immersion for
English language learners; budget requests; definitions)
 Arizona state law requires cost efficient, research based models that meet all state and
federal laws. (A.R.S. §15-756.01 (D)) Arizona English language learners task force;
research based models of structured English immersion for English language learners;
budget requests; definitions)
For questions regarding the ELAS department or ELLs, please contact the school's ELL
Coordinator at (480)924-1500 or the Director of English Language Acquisition Services at
(602)953-2933.
GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION
Food and Nutrition
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy is pleased to offer the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and
School Breakfast Program (SBP) for the 2014-2015 school year. The NSLP and SBP are Federal Programs
that provide nutritious meals at minimum to no cost to school children. . For assistance please contact
Emma Cabral, School Meals Coordinator.
Non-discrimination Statement:
This explains what to do if you believe you have been treated unfairly.
“In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited
from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of
discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW,
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice). Individuals who are hearing
impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 8778339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Visitors to School
 Vista Grove welcomes adult visitors. Parents who wish to schedule classroom observations should
make an appointment at least 24 hours in advance. The principal/school leader may accompany
the classroom observer.
 All visitors must sign in at the front office and leave some form of identification, they must at all
times while on campus where a visitors badge.
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Volunteers in the classroom or in the school are not allowed to have children accompany them.
This policy ensures safety, minimizes classroom interruptions, and promotes full concentration of
both students and volunteers/visitors on the learning activity.
In order to preserve the educational process, visits will be limited.
Children from other schools are not allowed to visit or attend school during school hours.
Personal Property
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy is not responsible for personal property (cell phones, music
devices, game devices, etc.). VGPA suggests that parents/guardians not allow students to bring
these items to school.
Parent and Community Volunteers
Because student safety is of utmost concern to us, certain restrictions apply to volunteers and
fingerprint clearance may be required in order for you to volunteer.
Parents or guardians of a currently enrolled student who wish to volunteer at the school
are not required to be fingerprinted. Volunteers from the community will be required to provide a
current DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card and copy of their identification in order to volunteer at
the school.
Athletics
For students planning on participating in any of our sports programs they must complete a sports
physical through their doctor. Once they have passed and returned the required sports paperwork
including permission slips, physical, any fees that may be required for uniforms and such they
may try out.
Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. If a student lashes out at another student either verbally or
physically while playing any game at practice, or during a game, that student will be subject to ALC and/or
suspension from sports. In extreme or frequent cases the student may receive suspension from school.
Field Trips
Each classroom participates in field trips at least twice a year. Teachers will send out notification
to parents/guardians that notify them of when, where, transportation, permission slips, and price
to students for each trip.
Students will not be able to participate in field trips if;
 Participation in class is poor
 The student has Behavior issues
 Permission slips are not signed
GETTING TO AND FROM SCHOOL
Arrival Time
Student’s may not be dropped off on campus before 7:45 AM, VGPA does not have a before
school care program
Dismissal Time
Buses will start loading at 3:25 pm Monday thru Thursday, and 12:55 pm on Fridays. If a student
misses the bus or is not behaving while loading the parent/guardian will be called to pick up their
student/s, they must be picked up by 4:15 PM. The school reserves the right to charge parents a
late fee if they do not pick up their student/s at a timely manner. A rate of $10.00 each 15 minutes
after 4:15 pm will be charged to parent/guardian per student. VGPA does not provide an
afterschool care program, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to pick up their student/s
promptly at dismissal times or at the scheduled bus stop.
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Bus Transportation
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy will provide bus transportation for students to travel to and from school. It
is the responsibility of parents to arrange appropriate bus transportation by ensuring they fill out the
transportation release form in the enrollment packet. If the student walks or receives rides from the parent it
is the parent and students responsibility to promptly arrive and depart according to the student’s schedule.
Consequences of Misconduct on the Bus
The safety of students is a priority to Vista Grove Preparatory Academy. Students must adhere
to bus rules. Students not adhering to bus rules will be disciplined and may have their bus
privileges suspended or revoked. All students who ride buses are subject to rules and
consequences designed to provide safe transportation. Any behavior which distracts the driver is
considered a serious hazard to the safe operation of the bus, and as such, jeopardizes the safety
of all passengers, the driver, and others. Please remember that riding the bus is a privilege, not a
right, and as such the consequences of misconduct could result in your child being denied
transportation. Furthermore, be advised that a student suspended from riding the bus is also
prohibited from riding buses on field trips and for other activities, and may therefore be denied the
opportunity to participate on such trips. Suspension of bus riding privileges does not relieve
parents of the responsibility of sending a child to school. Each of these rules is considered
extremely crucial to the safe operation of our school buses, and has been established as a way to
protect all children. It is therefore imperative that your child follow these rules. School
administration will work in collaboration with the bus driver to discipline students for misconduct
on the bus. Please review the bus rules with your student.
Bus Rules
1. Obey the driver at all times.
2. All students must ride their assigned bus, to and from their assigned stop only
3. Remain properly seated (facing forward, feet towards the floor and out of the aisle, back
against the seat back) until the bus or vehicle has completely stopped and the door has
been opened.
4. Keep the aisles clear: no feet, bags are allowed in the aisles. Backpacks must be held in
laps.
5. Keep hands, arms, feet, legs and head inside the vehicle.
6. Keep windows up at all times unless instructed otherwise by the driver.
7. Do not throw anything at the bus, inside the bus or from the bus.
8. No eating, drinking (other than water) allowed on school buses.
9. Maintain orderly conduct at bus stops or other designated loading/unloading spots.
10. Weapons, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, laser pointers, balloons of any kind are prohibited.
11. Glass items, large items or sharp objects are not to be transported on school buses.
12. No cell phones, cameras or MP3-type players may be used or out of backpacks at any
time on the bus. These items may be confiscated if seen. The school is not responsible if
these types of items become lost or stolen.
13. No verbal or visual profanity, no gang signing and no screaming while on the bus.
14. No perfumes, hairsprays, colognes, fragranced items or other aerosols may be sprayed
on the bus due to potential for serious respiratory reaction by others.
15. Parents and other persons who are not students of Vista Grove Preparatory Academy
are prohibited from entering the bus.
16. All athletic-type balls and equipment should remain in backpacks or bags at all times
17. All other school rules are enforced on the school bus.
18. Please read the transportation handbook for any other information.
Walking to and from School
 Students may arrive to school and participate in the breakfast program at 7:45 A.M., please do not
allow them to arrive earlier. There is no supervision on the school grounds until that time.
 Walk on the sidewalk at all times. If there is not a sidewalk, use the left side facing oncoming
traffic.
 Never cross between parked cars.
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Students will not be allowed to leave campus until 3:45 due to our dismissal procedures for all
students including bus riders and those students being picked up by parents. This allows us to
make sure we can account for all of our students after school.
Please inform the office by 2:00pm, Monday - Thursday, and Noon on Friday, if your child will be
changing their regular means of coming to or from school. This is so important to our dismissal
procedure and the car e we take to make sure every student is accounted for at the end of the day.
Riding Bicycles to and from School
With parental permission, students in second grade or above may ride their bikes/scooters/rollerblades to
school. Parents who want their K-1 students to ride bikes to school must meet with the Principal/School
Leader and then sign an appropriate responsibility form, which outlines the conditions allowing this to
occur. The rules below should be listed for riding to school:
 Helmets are strongly encouraged.
 Start early enough so that he/she can arrive on time.
 Use only designated crosswalks to cross the street and walk your bike across the street.
 Rollerblades must be stored in front office; this allows the temptation at lunch and breaks to use
them on campus to be minimized.
 Upon reaching the school grounds, walk your bike/scooter to the designated storage area.
 Lock your bike/scooter. The school is not responsible for the protection of the student's bikes or
scooters.
 Skateboards or motorized scooters and shoes with wheels (heelys) are not permitted.
Notwithstanding the above, a principal/school leader may alter the above guidelines because of localized
safety situations.
ON SCHOOL GROUNDS
School Expectations for Student Behavior
The following Code of Conduct exists at Vista Grove Preparatory Academy for the purposes of protecting
student learning, maintaining a safe environment, and creating and maintaining a culture of acceptance,
belonging, and value for all students, families, staff, and guests.
Section 1: Protecting Student Learning
Classroom / Educational Disruption: Distractions to the continuity of the instructional process are
prohibited. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to: refusal to perform assigned tasks, exhibiting
behavior that interferes with the teacher’s instruction or other student's ability to learn, speaking or blurting
out at inappropriate times, or moving around the classroom without permission. Disruption to the learning
environment will not be tolerated.
Electronic Devices Electronic devices, including cell phones, MP3 players (IPODS), games, CD players,
tape players or similar devices cannot be used while students are in class at any time. Vista Grove
Preparatory Academy and/or Leona Group are in no way liable for any devices that are lost, stolen or
misplaced. Parents are encouraged to ensure their student leaves those items at home. See Student Property
Policy
Plagiarism or Failure to Follow Test-Taking Procedures: Students are prohibited from plagiarizing or
failing to follow test-taking procedures mandated by the teacher or school.
Section 2: Maintaining a Safe Environment
Closed Campus: For the safety of all students, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy is a closed campus.
Students must remain on school grounds at all times. If a student becomes ill or has an emergency they
should report to the office who will contact the parents. Parents must sign the student out before leaving
the campus.
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Backpack: Students need to bring a backpack or book bag to school; they must be stored in a designated
area that their teacher designates within the classroom. All backpacks are subject to search under
circumstances of suspicious behavior or reports of suspicious behavior. See student Property Policy
Physical/Verbal Altercations: A physical altercation is an incident in which a student physically touches
another student in a heated or angry manner. A verbal altercation is a heated or angry comment,
discussion, or argument with another student. This includes, but is not limited to, the following behavior:
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Behavior which knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly causes any physical injury to another
person.
Behavior which intentionally places another person in reasonable apprehension of immediate
physical injury.
Intending to injure, insult, or provoke another person.
Acting in a way that uses force or violence or threatening the use of force or violence which
disturbs the normal operation of the school or a school-sponsored activity or threatens to disrupt or
injure students, guests, or employees of the school.
Engaging in fighting, violence, or seriously disruptive behavior.
"Play" fighting will not be allowed at recess. This behavior raises the potential for a serious
physical altercation.
Heated or angry words toward another student, teacher, or staff member at any time.
Refusing a reasonable request of an employee attempting to maintain order or public safety.
Verbal or physical abuse of a student, teacher, or staff member, will not be tolerated and may
result in expulsion or arrest.
Pertaining to sports on campus, whether at recess or practice:
Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. If a student lashes out at another student either verbally or
physically while playing any game at recess, practice, or during a game, that student will be subject to ALC
and/or suspension from sports. In extreme or frequent cases the student may receive suspension from
school.
Harassment/Bullying: Bullying is defined as, "The act of habitually intimidating a smaller or weaker
person to make them do something." VGPA does not tolerate bullying of any kind either physical or
verbal.
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Please see last pages of handbook to read and sign our policy for Harassment/Bullying
Gang association and gang activity: Vista Grove Preparatory Academy strictly enforces a safe school
policy. Any type of gang association or gang activity is not tolerated and violates our student code of
conduct. We use the following guidelines as defined by Arizona law to protect the school from crime, gang
activity, and unsafe behavior: “Criminal street gang” means an individual to whom two of the following
seven criteria that indicate criminal street gang membership apply: self-proclamation, witness testimony or
official statement, written or electronic correspondence, paraphernalia or photographs, tattoos, clothing or
colors, or any other indicia of street gang membership.
Inciting to Riot / Unauthorized Demonstration: Students are not to incite to riot or demonstrate in a
disorderly or unauthorized manner on or adjacent to school property.
Loitering: Students are prohibited from loitering in or around the school campus.
Sexual Misconduct: Inappropriate public displays of affection or sexual misconduct are prohibited.
Sexual harassment of or by a student is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
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Theft / Vandalism: Destroying, theft, or vandalizing any school or other person’s property, including
textbooks and other school materials is not tolerated.
Tobacco: The possession of tobacco products on K-12 public, charter, or private school grounds, in
buildings, parking lots, playing fields and vehicles, and at off-campus school-sponsored events is a petty
criminal offense. “Tobacco products” includes smoking tobacco (e.g. cigarettes, cigars), smokeless tobacco
(e.g. snuff, twist), and cigarette papers.
Weapons / Explosive Devices: Weapons are not allowed on campus and possession of a weapon may also
result in notification to the authorities and/or withdrawal from school.
Section 3: Culture of Acceptance, Belonging, and Value
Respect for All: At Vista Grove we believe respect begins with a respect of self and that this is the catalyst
for feeling accepted, feeling a sense of belonging, and feeling valued by others. In order to help our
students learn to respect themselves and others in all situations Vista Grove has the following expectations
of conduct for all VGPA students.
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Vista Grove students address all teachers and staff by Mr., Mrs., or Miss (example: Mr. Batista,
not "Batista")
VGPA students represent our school pride by following our dress code while on campus, riding
the bus, and on field trips
VGPA students use appropriate language while on campus at any time, including evening or
weekend events
VGPA students use restrooms appropriately without writing on restroom stalls, walls, windows, or
floors
VGPA students clean up after themselves in the classroom, lunchroom, restrooms, and on the field
or playground
VGPA students refrain from using vulgar, profane, and/or racially motivated language or gestures
VGPA students refrain from displaying obscene or inappropriate material, including but not
limited to: pictures, music, videos
VGPA students refrain from harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age
or disability.
Cellular Phones and Electronic Devices
Cell phones are permitted on campus as long as they are turned off, and not a disturbance to the
educational environment. If parents need to contact students they should do so by calling the school at 480924-1500 and leaving a message for their student. The office staff will deliver messages immediately in
cases of emergencies, if it is not an emergency the student will get their message at the end of classes. The
office phone is available for students in extreme circumstances only, and with staff permission. Students
may use their cell phones while on lunch only. Violations of this policy will be addressed by
administration and could result in confiscation of phone... See student Property Policy
Inappropriate Items
The following items are not permitted at school, school activities, on the bus, or when traveling
to/from school:
Aerosol cans, alcohol, chains, tobacco in any form, e-cigarettes, drugs, raw eggs, glass
containers, laser pointers, paint, permanent markers, pornography, pepper spray/mace, shaving
cream, silly string, snap caps, fireworks of any kind, smoke/stink bombs, toys, water guns,
weapons, or any other items deemed inappropriate.
Inappropriate or disruptive items will be confiscated and may need to be picked up by the
parent/guardian. Students will face appropriate consequences for possession of inappropriate
items in line with school code of conduct and consequences.
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Dress Code
Students are expected to wear uniforms, the uniforms include the following:
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Vista Grove Preparatory Academy shirt, which may be purchased from the front office.
Khaki, tan, and or navy blue slacks or shorts for boys, khaki, tan, and or navy blue slacks, shorts,
or skorts for girls.
Shorts and skorts must be no shorter then mid-thigh.
Jeans/Denim of any color are not acceptable uniform attire.
Pajama bottoms are not acceptable uniform attire.
Leggings may only be worn under skirts or shorts, they are NOT appropriate as uniform pants.
No jewelry affixed to the nose, tongue, cheeks, lips, or eyebrows; ear piercings are acceptable.
For girls it is recommended that on Physical education days they wear either shorts or slacks.
Shoes must be closed at the toe and back of the shoe. Sneakers are recommended.
Slippers/house shoes, and flip flops are not appropriate.
Hats, visors, bandanas, and any other head covering are not appropriate for school.
Sunglasses or any other eyewear that obstructs the eye is not appropriate for school.
Athletic shorts are not acceptable
Restriction of Privileges
Privileges are just that, privileges. Privileges will be limited to those students who adhere to all
classroom and campus rules and regulations. Students who do not adhere to these ideals may
not be able to participate in those privileged activities.
Confiscation of Items
Administration reserves the right to confiscate items that unfit to bring to school or the student is
abusing the rules of having said item on campus (cell phones, game devices, toys, etc.,).
Parent/guardian will be called and asked to come the item to take home.
Student Searches
Administration reserves the right to search a student or call authorities to search a student for just
cause (suspicion of drugs, paraphernalia, tobacco, weapons, stolen items, etc.) .
Drug Free School
A Drug Free School Zone is defined in A.R.S. 3411 as “the area within 300 feet of a school or its
accompanying grounds, any public property within one thousand feet of a school or its
accompanying grounds, a school bus stop or on any bus contracted to transport students.”
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy is designated as a Drug Free School Zone. Any person who
violates this designation by possession, distribution, solicitation, manufacturing, or sale of drugs is
subject to school disciplinary action and criminal prosecution in accordance with Arizona Revised
Statutes.
The use, possession, distribution, manufacturing, or sale of drugs on or near school property, on
the way to and from school, at a bus stop, or on a bus is prohibited. This includes an individual
defined in section 36-2801 as a cardholder or any other individual lawfully possessing or using
marijuana as outlined in A.R.S 15-108
For the purposes of this policy, drugs shall include, but not be limited to:
• Marijuana
• Prescription only drugs
• Narcotic drugs
• Inhalants/vapor-releasing substances
• Dangerous drugs – including, but not limited to the following: Hallucinogens,
Stimulants, Depressants, Barbiturates, and Anabolic steroids
• Alcoholic beverages
• Drug “look alkies” or substances represented as drugs
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Any student in possession of, selling or distributing dangerous drugs or narcotics will be
recommended for long-term suspension or expulsion.
Any student in possession of, selling or distributing any other substances specified in this policy
will be recommended for short-term suspension, long-term suspension, or expulsion.
Bullying and Hazing Prevention Policy
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy expressly prohibits any acts of bullying or hazing. Additionally,
soliciting others to engage in bullying or hazing is prohibited. Aiding and abetting other persons
engaged in hazing or bullying is also expressly prohibited by SCHOOL NAME. This prohibition
applies even if the victim of bullying or hazing consents to or acquiesces in the bullying or hazing
activity.
All students, teachers, and staff of Vista Grove Preparatory Academy will take reasonable
measures within the scope of their individual authority to prevent violations of the bullying and
hazing prevention policy. If you see bullying or are a victim of bullying—REPORT it to a school
employee right away!
Bullying is defined as a real or perceived imbalance of power with the more powerful child or
group attacking those who are less powerful. Bullying can be physical in form (e.g., pushing,
hitting, kicking, spitting, stealing); verbal (e.g., making threats, taunting, teasing, name-calling); or
psychological (e.g., social exclusion, spreading rumors, manipulating social relationships).
Hazing is defined per A.R.S. 15-2301 as any intentional, knowing or reckless act committed by a
student, whether individually or in concert with other persons, against another student, and in
which both of the following apply:
a) The act was committed in connection with an initiation into, an affiliation with or the
maintenance of membership in any organization that is affiliated with an educational
institution.
b) The act contributes to a substantial risk of potential physical injury, mental harm or
degradation or causes physical injury, mental harm or personal degradation.
Students, teachers and staff can report violations of the bullying and hazing prevention policy by
filing a complaint for a violation following these steps:
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Grievances should be submitted to the school leader or designee within 60 days of the
date the person filing the grievance becomes aware of the alleged action.
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A complaint should be in writing, containing the name and address of the person filing it.
The complaint must state the problem or action alleged and the remedy or relief sought. If the
Complainant is unable to put the complaint in writing, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy shall
provide reasonable accommodations to assist the Complainant with submission of his/her
complaint. Although we encourage individuals to submit complaints in writing, Vista Grove
Preparatory Academy will nonetheless provide prompt and equitable response when it becomes
aware of possible bullying or hazing.
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The school leader (or her/his designee) shall conduct an investigation of the complaint.
This investigation may be informal, but it must be thorough, affording all interested persons an
opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint, including the opportunity to present
witnesses. The school leader will maintain the files and records of Vista Grove Preparatory
Academy relating to such grievances.
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The school leader will complete the investigation and issue a written decision on the
grievance no later than 30 days after its filing, unless extenuating circumstances require an
extension of the 30 day timeline. In such a case, the school leader (or her/his designee) will
communicate with the Complainant concerning the need for an extension.
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The person filing the grievance may appeal the decision of the school leader or designee
by writing to the Board of Directors of The Kaizen Education Foundation / American Charter
Schools Foundation within 15 days of receiving the school’s decision. The Board of Directors of
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The Kaizen Education Foundation / American Charter Schools Foundation shall issue a written
decision in response to the appeal no later than 30 days after its filing.
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If it is determined that bullying or hazing occurred, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy
shall take the appropriate steps to prevent the recurrence of such action and correct the effects
on the complainant and others through disciplinary or other measures.
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Vista Grove Preparatory Academy shall maintain confidentiality as required by the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that disabled
persons are provided other accommodations, if needed, to participate in this grievance process.
Such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf,
providing taped cassettes of material for the blind, providing a scribe for submission of the
complaint, or assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings. The Section 504 Coordinator
will be responsible for such arrangements.
Complaints/Grievances may be withdrawn at any time. False or unproven complaint
documentation will not be maintained by the school.
Knowingly submitting a false report under this policy shall subject the student to discipline up to
and including suspension or expulsion. Where disciplinary action is necessary, relevant school
policies shall be followed.
All Other Violations
When a student does not meet expectations for any other area and is referred to the Student Management
office, administration will apply consequences while:
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Considering what precipitated the event in question
Considering the child’s intentions
Considering the personality and temperament of the student
Considering what actually occurred
Considering the damage or hurt caused by the misbehavior or rule violation.
CATEGORIES OF MISCONDUCT AND RANGE OF POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES
Misconduct or Violation /Definition
Assault
Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing
any physical injury to another person;
intentionally
placing another person in reasonable
apprehension of imminent physical injury or
knowingly touching another person with the
intent to injure, insult or provoke the person
Aggravated Assault/Assault on a Staff
Member
An assault in which a person causes serious
physical injury to another or an assault on a
peace
officer, teacher, or other employee of the school
district - could be considered as a Threat to an
Educational Institution
Arson/Reckless Burning
Attempting to or intentional burning of a building,
structure, or property
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Consequence
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Bomb Threats
Threatening to cause harm using a bomb,
dynamite, explosive, or arson-causing device –
could be considered as a Threat to an
Educational Institution
Bullying
Bullying is a real or perceived imbalance of
power with the more powerful child or group
showing
either passive or direct aggression toward those
who are less powerful. Bullying can be physical
in
form (e.g., pushing, hitting, kicking, spitting,
stealing); verbal (e.g., making threats, taunting,
teasing, name calling); psychological (e.g.,
social exclusion, spreading rumors, manipulating
social relationships); or through the use of
electronic devices or other social media
Communication.
Burglary
The act of entering a building or other premises
with the intent to commit theft
Cell Phone Disturbance
Any use of cellular phone during the school day
(e.g. incoming/outgoing phone calls, text
messaging, taking photos, music, etc.)
Cheating
Wrongfully securing and/or using information or
assisting another to do so
Chemical or Biological Threat
Threatening to cause harm using dangerous
chemicals or biological agents – could be
considered as a Threat to an Educational
Institution
Classroom Disturbance
Any act which disrupts the normal educational
process or violates any rules or
procedures of a classroom
Combustible Items
Possession of substance or object that is readily
capable of causing bodily harm or property
damage, i.e., matches, lighters, firecrackers,
gasoline, and lighter fluid
Contraband/Inappropriate Items
Items which may disrupt the learning
environment
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Criminal Involvement
Criminal involvement in an off-campus offense
indicating that the offender is likely to pose a
threat to the safety or welfare of students or staff
members, or impair the normal educational
process or educational climate
Dangerous Situation, Failure to Report
Failure to report any knowledge or suspicion of a
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
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Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference/Confiscation
of Item
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference/Parental
Involvement
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference/Loss of
Privileges
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference/Confiscation
of Item
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
potentially dangerous situation
Defiance/Disrespect Towards Authority, or
Non-Compliance
Student engages in refusal to follow directions,
talks back, or delivers socially-rude interactions
Disorderly Conduct
Behavior which is disruptive to the orderly
education process of the school; this includes
disruptive behavior in a class or activity,
unreasonable noise, offensive language or
gestures, horseplay, roughhousing, sustained
out-of-seat behavior, refusing to obey a request
Dress Code Violations
Failure to comply with school’s dress and
grooming guidelines
Endangerment
Recklessly endangering another person with a
substantial risk of imminent physical injury
Ethnic/Racial Slurs/Hate Speech
Any communication which disparages a person
or group on a basis of some characteristic such
as
race, gender, ethnicity, religion, or sexual
orientation
Extortion
Demanding money or something of value in
return for protection or in connection with a
threat to
inflict harm
Fighting
Mutual participation in an incident involving
physical violence, where there is no major injury
Fire Alarm, Dialing 911
Setting off the fire alarm or dialing 911 when no
indication of emergency
Forgery
Falsely and fraudulently making or altering a
document, writing or using the signature or
initials of another person
Gambling
To play games of chance for money or to
exchange money or property
Gang Activities or Associations
Gang-related dress, verbal or written language,
or behavior
Graffiti or Tagging
Writing on walls, drawing or words that are
written scratched, painted, or sprayed on walls
or other
surfaces
Harassment, Nonsexual
Non-sexual harassment includes communication
with another person anonymously or by verbal,
electronic, mechanical, telegraphic, telephonic or
written means with the intent to harass
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Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Parental Involvement/Restitution
Maximum: Long-Term
Suspension/Restitution
Minimum: Personal Conference/ Confiscation
of Items
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference/Restitution
Maximum: Expulsion/Restitution
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Inappropriate Language
Verbal or written messages or physical gestures
that include swearing, name calling, or use of
words in an inappropriate manner
Indecent Exposure or Public Sexual
Indecency
The intentional exposure of one’s private body
parts to others
Hazing/Initiation
Any activities that can be considered any type of
initiation of another student
Incitement
Transmission of information with the intent to
inflame a situation
Interference with the Peaceful Conduct of an
Educational Institution
Disrupting the lawful use of any school property,
including uninvited student presence on campus
Leaving School Grounds without Permission
Leaving school grounds or being in an
unauthorized area during regular school hours
without permission of the principal or principal
designee
Lying
To make an untrue statement with the intent to
deceive, to create a false or misleading
impression
Minor Aggressive Act
Non-serious but inappropriate physical contact,
i.e., hitting, poking, pulling or pushing a chair out
from underneath another person, or other
behaviors that demonstrate low level hostile
behaviors
Misconduct
Failure to comply with any school rules
Negative Group Affiliation
Specific attitudes and actions of a student
affiliated with a negative group typically include
some of
the following:
• Involve themselves in other’s problems
• Confront authority as a group when one
member has been disciplined
• Act in an uncooperative and/or hostile manner
as a group
Plagiarism
To steal and pass off the ideas or words of
another as one’s own
Pornography
Possession, distribution, or sale of any
pornographic materials
Public Display of Affection
Holding hands, kissing, sexual touching or other
displays of affection
Recklessness
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Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum:
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference/Loss of
Privileges
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference/Parental
Involvement
Maximum: Personal Conference
Minimum: Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Unintentional, careless behavior that may pose a
safety or health risk for others
Selling/Trading
The selling, buying, or trading of any item on
school property that is not sponsored by the
school (for example, gum, money or candy, etc.)
Sexual Harassment
Contact District Compliance Officer.
Unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that
denies or limits a student’s ability to participate
in or to receive benefits, services, or
opportunities in the school’s program. It can
include unwelcome sexual advances, requests
for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or
physical conduct of a sexual nature, including
unwanted physical contact. Does not include
legitimate nonsexual touching or other nonsexual conduct
Sexual Conduct
Engaging in sexual conduct
Solicitation/Facilitation/Conspiracy
Encouraging, requesting, commanding or
assisting another person in the violation of a
school rule or in the commission of a criminal act
Tardiness
Unexcused lateness to class
Technology Violations
Failure to comply with laws, rules, or guidelines
for use of technology resources
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Theft
Taking property, items, or services from another
person or from the school without permission,
copying of copyrighted material
Trespassing
To enter or remain on a school campus or
District property without authorization or
invitation and with no purpose for entry
Truancy/Unexcused Absence
Any absence that has not been excused by a
parent or legal guardian (includes leaving class
without permission)
Unauthorized Areas
Being in any area considered off-limits to
students, including teachers’ lounge, teachers’
work areas, off-limits campus areas, etc.
Vandalism of Personal or School Property
Willful destruction or defacement of personal or
school property
Verbal Provocation
Use of language or gestures that may incite
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Alcohol
Being under the influence of, and/or the use,
possession, manufacture, distribution or sale
Minimum: Personal Conference/Restitution
Maximum: Expulsion/Restitution
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Minimum: Personal Conference /
Confiscation of Items and/or Money
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension/
Confiscation of Items and/or Money
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Parental Involvement/Loss of
Privileges
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Referral to Outside Agency
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Short-Term Suspension
Minimum: Personal Conference /Restitution
Maximum: Expulsion/Restitution
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
of an alcoholic substance
Look-A-Like/Over-The-Counter Possession
The distribution, sale or use of imitation, look-alike, prescription or over-the-counter medicine
or drugs
Drug Violation – Possession
The unlawful use or possession of any controlled
drug or narcotic substance or equipment and
devices used for preparing or taking drugs or
narcotics. Includes being under the influence of
drugs at school, school-sponsored events and
on school-sponsored transportation
Drug Violation – Distribution
The unlawful cultivation, manufacture,
distribution, sale, transportation or importation of
any
controlled drug or narcotic substance
Tobacco
The possession, use, distribution, or sale of
tobacco products or e-cigarette products.
THREATS
Threats/Intimidation/Verbal Abuse of a Staff
Member
Statements (verbal or written) or actions, which
attempt to threaten or intimidate a staff member
(ARS§ 15-507: a person who knowingly abuses
a teacher or other school employee on school
grounds or while the teacher or employee is
engaged in the performance of their duties is
guilty of a class 3 misdemeanor). Could be
considered as a Threat to an Educational
Institution
Threats or Intimidation
Communication by word or conduct the intent to
cause physical injury or serious damage to a
person or their property – could be considered
as a Threat to an Educational Institution
Threatening An Educational Institution
To interfere with or disrupt an educational
institution through threatening statements
1. Threatening to cause physical injury to any
employee of an educational institution or any
person attending an education institution
2. Threatening to cause damage to any
educational institution, the property of any
educational
institution, the property of any employee of an
educational institution or the property of any
person attending an educational institution
3. Going upon or remaining on the property of
any educational institution for the purpose of
interfering with or disrupting the lawful use of the
property or in any manner as to deny or
interfere with the lawful use of the property of
others
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Minimum: Short -Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Personal Conference
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
A student who is determined by the administration
to have threatened an educational institution shall
be recommended to the Governing Board for
expulsion of at least one year except that the
administration may modify this expulsion
recommendation requirement for a student on a
case-by-case basis, in the sole discretion of the
administration, if the student agrees to participate
in mediation, community service, restitution or
other
program(s) established by the administration in
which the student takes responsibility for the threat
and for the results of the threat. The administration
may reassign a student who is subject to expulsion
to an alternative program and may require that the
student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) participate in the
mediation, community service restitution or
other programs in which the parent or guardian
takes the responsibility with the student for the
threat.
4. Refusing to obey a lawful order to leave the
property of an educational institution
WEAPONS
Deadly Weapon
The possession, sale, use or distribution of a
deadly weapon. A deadly weapon is anything
designed for lethal use, including a firearm or
destructive device – could be considered as a
Threat to an Educational Institution
Dangerous Instrument
Anything that, under the circumstances in which
it is used, attempted to be used or threatened
to be used is readily capable of causing death or
serious physical injury – could be considered
as a Threat to an Educational Institution
Simulated Firearm
Possession of “look-alike” items, which have the
appearance of or are represented to be a real
weapon – could be considered as a Threat to an
Educational Institution
Threatening or Intimidating
Threatening or intimidating another person with
a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument or
simulated weapon – could be considered as a
Threat to an Educational Institution
Destructive Device
The possession, sale, use or distribution of any
device other than a firearm that will, or is
designed to, or may be readily converted to
expel a projectile by any means of propulsion,
such as a BB/pellet gun, slingshot, bow, or
crossbow – could be considered as a Threat to
an
Educational Institution
Other Weapon
The possession, sale, use or distribution of other
weapons such as a Billy Club,
Brass Knuckles, knife, or Nun chucks, etc. –
could be considered as a Threat to an
Educational Institution
Minimum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Minimum: Short-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
DUE PROCESS
Informal Due Process
The student will receive verbal notice of the alleged misconduct and the evidence that exists to
support the allegation. The student will be provided with the opportunity to explain his/her version
of the facts. The administrator(s) involved will make reasonable efforts to verify facts and
statements prior to making a disciplinary recommendation.
Short-Term Suspension
Short-term suspension means the temporary withdrawal of the privilege of attending school for a
period of ten or fewer consecutive school days.
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The authority to impose short-term suspensions rests with the school leader or designee. The
student will receive verbal notice of the alleged misconduct and the evidence that exists to
support the allegation. The student will have an opportunity to explain his/her version of the facts.
The leader or designee may then suspend the student for ten days or fewer, choose another
disciplinary alternative, or exonerate the student. A written record of the decision will be kept in
the student’s file. There is no right to appeal a short-term suspension. In addition to imposing a
short-term suspension, the school leader or designee may recommend that a long-term
suspension or expulsion be imposed.
Long-Term Suspension
Long-term suspension means the withdrawal of the privilege of attending school for a set period
of time of eleven or more consecutive school days. After following Informal Due Process, the
school leader or designee may choose to recommend long-term suspension, choose another
disciplinary action, or exonerate the student. If a long-term suspension is recommended, a written
Notice of Intent to Impose a Long-Term Suspension will be mailed or hand-delivered to the
parent. This letter will explain the offense, the recommendations, and the rights of the parent to
request a formal hearing. All documentation will be recorded in the student’s file.
Expulsion
Expulsion means the permanent withdrawal of the privilege of attending school unless the
Governing Board reinstates that privilege. The student and parents/guardians will be informed
when a student is subject to expulsion from school.
Expulsion requires official action of the Governing Board or a Board-appointed hearing officer.
Formal notification will include instructions regarding SCHOOL NAME’S due process procedure.
All documentation will be recorded in the student’s file.
Student Rights
Students shall have the right to receive annually, at the opening of school, a publication listing the
rules and regulations to which they are expected to comply. Student behavior expectations shall
be clearly defined, reasonable and relevant to the educational process.
Although an attempt has been made to include all rules and expectations, this handbook should
be viewed as a guide since it would be impossible to list all situations.
Discipline of Students under ADA §504 and/or IDEA 2004
Students are afforded protection under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and/or the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Vista Grove Preparatory Academy adheres to federal
and state requirements as they pertain to the discipline of students with disabilities.
REQUIRED ANNUAL NOTICES
Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232h; 34 CFR Part 98) applies to
programs that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Education (ED). PPRA is intended to protect the
rights of parents and students in two ways:


It seeks to ensure that schools and contractors make instructional materials available for inspection
by parents if those materials will be used in connection with an ED-funded survey, analysis, or
evaluation in which their children participate; and
It seeks to ensure that schools and contractors obtain written parental consent before minor
students are required to participate in any ED-funded survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals
information concerning:
1. Political affiliations;
2. Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student and his/her
family;
3. Sex behavior and attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior;
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5.
6.
7.
Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family
relationships;
Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers,
physicians, and ministers; or
Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a
program or for receiving financial assistance under such program).
Parents or students who believe their rights under PPRA may have been violated may file a complaint with
ED by writing the Family Policy Compliance Office. Complaints must contain specific allegations of fact
giving reasonable cause to believe that a violation of PPRA occurred.
For additional information or technical assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887 (voice). Individuals who use
TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339. Or you may contact us at the
following address:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5920
Child Abuse Reporting
Per state law, school employees must report reasonably suspected cases of child abuse, neglect, nonaccidental injury, or sexual offenses against children to Child Protective Services and local law enforcement
agencies. Where parents are the alleged abusers, school personnel are not to notify parents. Child
Protective Services (CPS) and law enforcement agencies are responsible for notification. All school
personnel are required to report if they reasonably believe that a minor is or has been the victim of abuse.
Mandated reporters are protected by state law from civil or criminal liability.
Any child who is a suspected victim shall be made available to CPS and/or the Police Department for
questioning. The investigating agency will determine whether school personnel should be with the child
during questioning. The CPS worker and/or the police may interview the student and all other children
residing in the home on school grounds outside of the presence of school personnel. They may conduct
interviews with the child without permission or notice to the parents where the suspected perpetrator is a
family member. CPS has the authority to obtain school records upon written request. (A.R.S. §13-3620)
Rights of Homeless Students
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy shall provide an educational environment that treats all students with
dignity and respect. Every homeless student shall have access to the same free and appropriate
educational opportunities as students who are not homeless. This commitment to the educational rights of
homeless children, youth, and unaccompanied youth, applies to all services, programs, and activities
provided or made available.
A student may be considered eligible for services as a “Homeless Child or Youth” under the McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act if he or she is presently living:

In a shelter, temporary shared housing, or transitional living program

In a hotel/motel, campground, or similar situation due to lack of alternatives

At a bus station, park, car, or abandoned building

In temporary or transitional foster care placement
According to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Act, eligible students have rights to:
Immediate enrollment: Documentation and immunization records cannot serve as a barrier to the
enrollment in school.
School Selection: McKinney Vento eligible students have a right to select from the following
schools:

The school he/she attended when permanently housed (School of Origin)

The school in which he/she was last enrolled (School of Origin)

The school in the attendance area in which the student currently resides (School of
Residency)
30
Remain enrolled in his/her selected school for the duration of homelessness, or until the academic
year upon which they are permanently housed.
Participate in programs for which they are eligible, including Title I, National School Lunch
Program, Head Start, Even Start, etc.
Transportation Services: A McKinney-Vento eligible student attending his/her School of Origin
has a right to transportation to and from the School of Origin.
Dispute Resolution: If you disagree with school officials about enrollment, transportation, or fair
treatment of a homeless child or youth, you may file a complaint with the school district. The
school district must respond quickly and it must be in writing. During the dispute, the student must
be immediately enrolled in the school and provided transportation until the matter is resolved. The
Homeless Liaison will assist you in making decision, providing notice of any appeal process, and
filling out dispute forms. You have the right to appeal a decision to the state level.
For more information, refer to http://www.ade.az.gov/asd/homeless/ or contact:
Deanna Vega
Homeless Liaison
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy
2929 East McKellips Road
Mesa, Arizona 85213
480-924-1500
Frank Magli
Homeless Education Coordinator
Arizona Department of Education
1535 W. Jefferson Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 542-4963
Frank.magli@ azed.gov
NON-DISCRIMINATION
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,
disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other
designated youth groups. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the
non-discrimination policies:
Mary Berg, Vice President of Academic Support Services
7878 N. 16th St., Ste. 150
Phoenix, AZ 85020
602.953.2933
Mary.Berg@LeonaGroup.com
Heidi Sinkovic, Director of Exceptional Student Services
7878 N. 16th St., Ste. 150
Phoenix, AZ 85020
602.953.2933
Heidi.Sinkovic@LeonaGroup.com
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Any person who believes she or he has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of disability by a
student, staff member, or third party may file a grievance under this procedure. Examples of disability
discrimination can include, but are not limited to, disability-based harassment; limiting or denying a qualified
individual with a disability in the enjoyment of any right, privilege, advantage, or opportunity enjoyed by
others receiving an aid, benefit or service; treating a student differently on the basis of disability; denying a
student with a disability a free and appropriate education; and failing to make modifications of "policies,
practices or procedures" when such modification is necessary to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy prohibits retaliation against anyone who files a grievance or
cooperates in the investigation of a grievance.
Procedure:
•Grievances should be submitted to the Section 504 Coordinator within 60 days of the date the person filing
the grievance becomes aware of the alleged discriminatory action.
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•A complaint should be in writing, containing the name and address of the person filing it. The complaint
must state the problem or action alleged to be discriminatory and the remedy or relief sought. If the
Complainant is unable to put the complaint in writing, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy shall provide
reasonable accommodations to assist the Complainant with submission of his/her complaint. Although we
encourage individuals to submit complaints in writing, the Academy will nonetheless provide prompt and
equitable response when it becomes aware of possible discrimination.
•The Section 504 Coordinator (or her/his designee) shall conduct an investigation of the complaint. This
investigation may be informal, but it must be thorough, affording all interested persons an opportunity to
submit evidence relevant to the complaint, including the opportunity to present witnesses. The Section 504
Coordinator will maintain the files and records of Vista Grove Preparatory Academy relating to such
grievances.
•The Section 504 Coordinator will complete the investigation and issue a written decision on the grievance
no later than 30 days after its filing, unless extenuating circumstances require an extension of the 30 day
timeline. In such a case, the Section 504 Coordinator (or her/his designee) will communicate with the
Complainant concerning the need for an extension.
•The person filing the grievance may appeal the decision of the Section 504 Coordinator by writing to the
Board of Directors of The Kaizen Education Foundation / American Charter Schools Foundation within 15
days of receiving the Section 504 Coordinator’s decision. The Board of Directors of The Kaizen Education
Foundation / American Charter Schools Foundation shall issue a written decision in response to the appeal
no later than 30 days after its filing.
•If it is determined that discrimination occurred, Vista Grove Preparatory Academy shall take the
appropriate steps to prevent the recurrence of discrimination and correct the discriminatory effects on the
complainant and others.
• Vista Grove Preparatory Academy shall maintain confidentiality as required by the Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
•The availability and use of this grievance procedure does not prevent a person from filing a complaint of
discrimination on the basis of disability with the U. S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights.
Vista Grove Preparatory Academy will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that disabled persons
are provided other accommodations, if needed, to participate in this grievance process. Such arrangements
may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of material
for the blind, providing a scribe for submission of the complaint, or assuring a barrier-free location for the
proceedings. The Section 504 Coordinator will be responsible for such arrangements.
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