2019-20 parent scholar handbook parent scholar handbook.pdf · scholars are to be dropped off in...

PARENT/SCHOLAR HANDBOOK

300 Willingboro Way – Suite 200, Willingboro, NJ 08046 (1st – 4th Grades) 315 Bridge Street, Westampton, NJ 08060 (Kindergarten and 5th – 8th Grades) 1000 Salem Road – Suite D, Willingboro, NJ 08046 (Administration Building)

Phone: (609) 531-0158 Fax: (609) 835-0300 (Willingboro Campus) Phone: (609) 261-0158 Fax: (609) 261-0101 (Westampton Campus)

Phone: (609) 835-8370 Fax: (609) 835-8373 (Administration Building)

www.bannekerprep.com

Established 2012

Richard Wilson, Jr., MA Founder, Chief School Administrator/CEO & Principal

Banneker Prep Charter School Student Handbook

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MISSION STATEMENT The Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School’s mission is to promote high scholastic achievement while addressing social and emotional issues in order to develop character, build effective social relationships, and respect for self and others. VISION STATEMENT It is the vision of the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School that scholars will be exposed to the key components of Social, Emotional, and Character Development, and apply these concepts to foster academic achievement in middle school, high school, college and beyond. MOTTO Intelligence + Character = True Education THE SHEILD The Cougar represents Leadership The Book represents Academic Achievement The Torch represents Enlightenment SCHOOL COLORS Black and Gold GENERAL INFORMATION Mail: Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School P.O. Box 128 Willingboro, NJ 08046 Physical Locations: Willingboro Campus (1st – 4th Grades) Westampton Campus (K & 5th – 8th Grades) 300 Willingboro Way - Suite 200 315 Bridge Street Willingboro, NJ 08046 Westampton, NJ 08060 Phone: (609) 531-0158 Phone: (609) 261-0158 Facsimile: (609) 835-0300 Facsimile: (609) 261-0101 Administration Building 1000 Salem Road – Suite D (Rancocas Medical Center) Willingboro, NJ 08046 Phone: (609) 835-8370 Facsimile: (609) 835-8373


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Staff Directory and Email: A staff directory can be found at https://www.bannekerprep.com/apps/staff/ Website: www.bannekerprep.com School Hours: 7:45 am – 3:30 pm - Monday through Thursday 7:45 am – 12:00 pm - Friday (Early Dismissal) Early Dismissal for scholars is always 12:00 pm. Lunch will not be served on Early Dismissal Days. On Early Dismissal Days, staff will have meetings, professional development, and/or professional institutes. Administrative Building Office Hours: 7:30 am – 3:30 pm Before and After Care Programs:

Sponsored by the Wilson Harrison Foundation, Inc. for a monthly fee o Cougar’s Den Before/After Care Program o www.whfnj.org – view handbook and complete application o (609) 667-9656 or [email protected] – for information

Arrival: Please be mindful that while the Westampton Campus’ parking area is not open to the public, the Willingboro Campus is a public parking lot that is shared with Strayer University, as well as other facilities. The safety of our scholars is of the utmost importance, and it is for that reason that the following instructions must be adhered to: Willingboro Campus:

1. Scholars are to be dropped off in the designated parking lot at the crosswalk. 2. Scholars should not exit any vehicles until they are at the crosswalk. 3. All vehicles must adhere to the speed limit of no more than 10 mph. 4. No vehicle may drive around the line of cars/vehicles. 5. No vehicle may cut across parking spaces.

Westampton Campus

1. Scholars are to be dropped off in the parking area. No vehicle is permitted in the fire lane in front of the buildings.

2. Scholars may exit the vehicle only when they are next to assigned staff member. 3. All vehicles must adhere to the speed limit of no more than 10 mph. 4. No vehicle may drive around the line of cars/vehicles. 5. No vehicle may cut across parking spaces.

Please make sure your child arrives to school on time. The first fifteen minutes of the day, from 7:45 am – 8:00 am, are crucial to helping our scholars get off to a good start.


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Tardiness: Any scholar who arrives to school after 8:00 am (i.e., 8:01 am) is considered late, and must be signed in by a parent or guardian. Parents/guardians must accompany any late scholars to the office to sign them in at the Security Desk/Main Office. Please be advised that five (5) tardies equals one (1) absence. Dismissal:

• Scholars are dismissed from school beginning at 3:30 pm, unless it is a Friday and/or early dismissal day. Scholars are dismissed from school beginning at 12:00 pm on Friday and/or early dismissal days.

• Any scholar leaving school early may be picked up no later than 3:00 pm Monday through Thursday. Any scholar leaving school early may be picked up no later than 11:30 am Friday and/or early dismissal days. In the event a scholar is not picked up by the times as set forth above, he/she shall be required to remain in school, and dismissed only during regular dismissal.

• Upon dismissal, a scholar will be permitted to walk home as long as the scholar’s parent/guardian has signed a permission slip, and said permission slip is on file in the Main Office. Under no circumstances will a scholar be permitted to walk home from school without a signed permission slip. Any parent/guardian wishing to have his/her/their scholar walk home from school, may obtain a permission slip/form from the respective Main Office.

• Any parent/guardian who picks his/her/their scholars up from school (3:30 pm or 12:00 pm) must stay in or stand next to their vehicle in the parking area. In the event a staff member asks a parent/guardian to move his/her vehicle from a location, it is expected that said parent/guardian will immediately comply with the request.

• School staff will dismiss a scholar who is being picked up directly to his/her parent/guardian’s vehicle. If staff members do not personally recognize the adult picking up the scholar as an authorized person, said staff member shall check the individual’s identity and verify that the individual is listed on the approved pick-up list provided by the student’s parent/guardian. Please note that there will be no exceptions made to this provision, as it is done to ensure the safety of your child.

• Please be patient during the first few weeks of school as we confirm the identities of adults picking up children.

STAFF: The administrative staff at Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School is responsible for the overall operation of the school. In addition to supporting the educational program, they handle communications with the New Jersey Department of Education, our sending districts, and the community at-large. In essence, they perform all the tasks of a public school district in New Jersey.

Chief School Administrator/CEO Richard L. Wilson, Jr. School Business Administrator Glenn Richardson Elementary Assistant Principal Danielle Douglas Confidential Executive Assistant Christine Taylor

Chief School Administrator/CEO: The Chief School Administrator is responsible for the overall operation of the school, and to make sure it is run efficiently and effectively for the safety of both staff and scholars. The Chief School Administrator is also responsible for ensuring the implementation of the school’s educational programs as outlined in the Charter.


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The Chief School Administrator supports and assesses staff members, directs professional development, and recommends teaching staff for rehire and tenure. The Chief School Administrator also serves as the Principal of the school. See also Policy 1230, Chief School Administrator’s Duties. School Business Administrator: The School Business Administrator (SBA) oversees school financial processes, including purchasing, payments to debtors, and payroll. The School Business Administrator also manages the school accounts and bookkeeping, and participates in the annual audit. See also Policy 1320, Duties of the School Business Administrator/Board Secretary. Confidential Executive Assistant: The Confidential Executive Assistant performs a wide range of administrative and office support activities for the Chief School Administrator and School Business Administrator in order to facilitate the efficient operation of the organization. Such responsibilities of the Confidential Executive Assistant include, but are not limited to: state reporting, covering the front office, coordinating food services, and admissions. See also Policy 3275, Communications with Parents noting that the Confidential Executive Assistant is required to proofread all letters, correspondence, or notes to parents before being sent home. Assistant Principal: The Assistant Principal oversees the daily functions at his/her designated campus. The Assistant Principal supervises all instructional and educational program staff. Dean of Students: The Dean of Students supervises the school culture and climate to promote a safe learning environment. The Dean of Students both monitors and addresses all scholar discipline. Teaching Staff Members: Teaching staff members have complete authority to implement the school’s programs and policies, and assess student work. Teaching staff members are the main point of contact for members who have questions about the educational program and related policies as implemented in their classrooms. Teaching staff members are charged with implementing the school’s curriculum, supervising teaching assistants and volunteers, collaborating with scholars and parents/guardians to create Student Academic Plans for all their scholars, and maintaining a peaceful and respectful classroom. While teaching staff members are required to adhere to all Board Policies, specific attention must be paid toward those listed under 3000 – Teaching Staff Members. Teaching staff members are specially trained in Social, Emotional, and Character Development, in addition to accommodating for different student learning styles, and many other techniques and practices that support our school’s mission. Instructional Paraprofessionals (teacher’s aide, 1:1 aides): Instructional Paraprofessionals instruct scholars in collaboration with teaching staff members. Instructional Paraprofessionals assist the teacher in generally running the classroom, and providing particular support for scholars as needed. Instructional Paraprofessionals participate in professional development activities. All


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Paraprofessionals are Highly Qualified. While Instructional Paraprofessionals are required to adhere to all Board Policies, specific attention must be paid toward those listed under 4000 – Support Staff Members. School Counselors: The School Counselor works closely with teachers, administrators, and other professional staff members, providing information and assistance where needed for the ultimate benefit of scholars. The School Counselor oversees all matters of student attendance, and reports to the Chief School Administrator all chronic attendance problems. The School Counselor also collaborates with the faculty in the enforcement and implementation of the rules and other regulations of the student code of conduct to effect positive student behavior in the school. See also Policy 2411, Guidance Counseling. School Nurses: The School Nurse oversees the health needs of our scholars and staff. This includes performing mandated health screenings for hearing, eyesight, scoliosis (curvature of the spine), and height/weight; finding community resources to meet student health needs; giving medication and treatments as prescribed by scholars’ doctors. The School Nurse also provides health instruction in sex education, personal hygiene, nutrition, and other areas as needed. The School Nurse is the primary point of contact for parents/guardians who wish to discuss the health or medical needs of their scholars. See Policy 5305, Health Services Personnel. PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES This is a school that practices Integrity and Professionalism. Therefore, we expect our parents/guardians to follow this practice. In accordance with Policy 9230 Parental Responsibilities, parents/guardians must adhere to the following:

• Maintain professionalism and integrity on school premises. The school has the right to ban a parent from the school premises for the following reasons:

1. If a parent is using abusive, insulting, or threatening language or behavior that presents a risk to staff or pupils.

2. If a parent approaches a teacher or staff member (in a threatening manner), outside of the school building without making an appointment.

• Requiring that children obey all school rules and by accepting responsibility for a child's improper conduct;

• Sending children to school with proper attention to health, personal cleanliness, and dress; • Maintaining an active interest in each child's daily work and making it possible for the child to

complete assigned homework by providing a quiet place and suitable conditions for study; • Reading communications from the school and signing and returning them promptly when so

requested; • Attending conferences arranged for the exchange of information on the child's progress in

school; and • Consistently and regularly checking the parent portal to review grades, attendance, and

discipline; • Parents must schedule an appointment to meet with all school officials, teachers

and staff. Impromptu requests are prohibited as it may interfere with the educational program.


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STUDENT ATTENDANCE Parents/guardians are responsible for their child’s punctuality, attendance, and cleanliness. It is imperative for all of our scholars to attend school every day and to arrive on time. Absences: New Jersey school attendance laws require scholars between the ages of 6 and 16 to attend school during all of the days and hours that school is in session. See N.J.S. 18A:38-25. New Jersey Law requires a scholar to be in attendance for at least four (4) hours per day, excluding lunch and recess, to be counted as present for the day. A scholar who does not attend school for at least four (4) hours must be considered absent for the day, and ineligible for all school related activities and events. Scholars may be excused from school for personal illness with Doctor’s documentation, religious holidays, and/or other family circumstances. In each of these instances, a parent/guardian must notify the school as soon as possible of the reason for his/her child’s absence. Upon a scholar’s reentry following an absence, a parent/guardian will be required to submit a written/signed note setting forth the reason for the absence. In the event a scholar is ill for five (5) or more days, a parent/guardian must submit a note from the attending doctor. If your child is absent more than ten (10) days, a report will be made to the official courts for further action! See Policy 5200, Attendance. Lateness: Being on time is an important skill that all children must learn. Lateness has a very bad effect on our educational program. Scholars who are late face difficulties in keeping up with their work, and often suffer embarrassment at their late entrance. Classes can be severely disrupted by scholars arriving late, and all scholars suffer as a result. Please make every effort to arrive on time! As set forth above, school opens at 7:45 am, and all scholars should arrive at that time. In the event a scholar arrives to school late – after 8:00 am (i.e., at 8:01 am), he/she must be signed in by a parent or guardian. Parents/guardians must accompany any late scholars to the office to sign them in at the Security Desk/Main Office. Unexcused Absences or Lateness: A parent/guardian who habitually brings his/her scholars to school late, or whose scholars have excessive unexcused absences, will be subject to state laws regarding truancy, and the school may pursue legal action in extreme cases as per N.J.S. 18A:38-31. See also Policy 5200, Attendance. Vacations: A parent/guardian must encourage scholars to attend school whenever school is in session. It is strongly recommended that a parent/guardian schedule any vacation in accordance with the school calendar. Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School does not encourage vacations taken during school time. If a child is going


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to be absent for any period of time due to vacation, it is the student and parent/guardian’s responsibility, prior to the absence, to make arrangements with the teacher regarding schoolwork that may be missed. Vacations will count as an Unexcused absence. Permission to Leave School Early: We ask parents NOT to schedule medical and dental appointments during the school day. When this is absolutely necessary, please notify the school at least one (1) day prior to said appointment, and come to the Main Office when you arrive to sign your child out. No scholar shall be allowed to leave school early on a routine basis unless there is a documented medical need. SCHOOL CLOSINGS/EARLY DISMISSAL In the event that Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School is closed due to inclement weather and/or emergency conditions, you can find announcements as follows: Television: Channel 6 Action News/WPVI beginning at 5:30 a.m. Web Site: www.bannekerprep.com Text: TEXT MESSAGE BELOW TO 81010

GRADES K-3 ---TYPE @4ah7d2

GRADES 4-6 ---TYPE @c2g6kbc

GRADES 7-8 ---TYPE @e89e67 Delayed Openings: If it appears that early morning weather conditions make it advisable to delay the opening of school, the school will open two (2) hours later than usual, and all morning pupil transportation will be delayed for two (2) hours. Note that delayed openings are not possible on early dismissal Fridays—the shorter day makes it impractical to hold school. In the event of bad early morning conditions on a scheduled early dismissal Friday, SCHOOL WILL BE CLOSED. Early Closings: In the event that school closes early due to inclement weather and/or an emergency situation, the After-School Program will not operate on said date. Parents/Guardians or their emergency contact(s) will be notified to pick up their children at school. Please arrive promptly to pick up your child. TRANSPORTATION Busing: While the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School coordinates information with the Willingboro School District, it is the Willingboro School District that handles transportation. Please note that there are no forms to


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complete. The Confidential Executive Assistant will forward contact information and addresses on a yearly basis. All questions regarding transportation should be directed to Mr. Silva at (609) 835-8786. Transportation Reimbursement: Scholars who are eligible for bus transportation but are not provided with service are eligible for a refund of transportation costs from their sending school district. The amount of the refund is determined by your local school district, and is payable in two (2) installments – one (1) in January and one (1) in May. Parents/Guardians must complete a B6T form. Bus Conduct and Discipline: Scholars must abide by the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School Code of Conduct, as well as the bus driver’s rules while on any bus going to and from Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School. Inappropriate behavior can lead to the distraction of the bus driver, and affect the safety of all scholars riding the bus. Scholars are also expected to follow all applicable state laws and bus company regulations regarding bus transportation, which includes the mandatory wearing of seat belts whenever the bus is moving. See also Policy and Regulation 5600, Student Discipline/Code of Conduct. See also Regulation 5560, Disruptive Students. To reiterate, scholars riding the bus must obey the bus driver or aide. Scholars who misbehave on the bus or refuse to cooperate with the driver or aide are not only subject to discipline, but will not be allowed to ride the bus. In the event a school bus does not promptly arrive at a designated bus stop because of either mechanical failure or road/weather conditions, parents/guardians are reminded to wait at said bus stop for at least thirty (30) minutes. Bus Drop-off Changes: No scholar shall be permitted to change his/her bus stops without a note signed by his/her parent/guardian, as well as permission received from the bus company. If your child is going to be using a different bus stop for a length of time, please contact the transportation company to inform them of the period of time requested. If a scholar is not going to ride the bus home on a particular day, his/her parent/guardian must submit a signed note to the Main Office no later than the morning of the particular day. The student will be instructed to board the bus if we do not receive other instructions. Walking Home: A scholar will be permitted to walk home as long as the scholar’s parent/guardian has signed a permission slip, and said permission slip is on file in the Main Office. Under no circumstances will a scholar be permitted to walk home from school without a signed permission slip. Any parent/guardian wishing to have his/her/their scholar walk home from school, may obtain a permission slip/form from the Main Office. Changes to Transportation Arrangements: Changes in a scholar’s transportation arrangements must be provided to the school in writing. Such notes may be personally delivered and/or faxed to the Main Office at (609) 835-8373. Administration may, at their discretion, accept a phone call only in emergency situations and/or when it is impossible to provide written


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permission. In the event you need to change buses and/or bus stops, that information must be given directly to the transportation company. We will not allow scholars to walk home, go home with friends, or accept rides from other parents unless we have written permission from a parent/guardian. Parking and Visiting: We encourage all members of the community to visit our school. With that said, please take note that the outside doors are locked, so all visitors must use the doorbell in order to gain entrance. While this may be an inconvenience at times, it is important to know who is entering the building. Visitors should wait for the Security Officer. Everyone entering Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School Campuses is required to sign in at the security desk/main office. All visitors are required to conform to Policy and Regulation 9150, School Visitors. LUNCHES AND SNACKS The meal program is under the direction of Aramark Food Services. Scholars can purchase breakfast/lunch. A monthly menu is posted on the school’s website. Aramark Food Services is responsible for ALL aspects of meal program. Please contact Anthony Spadola, Director at [email protected]. If your child brings a lunch to school, please be sure that it is labeled with his or her name. Please note that neither refrigeration nor the ability to heat food is available. Please do not send any glass containers. If your child forgets his/her lunch or lunch money, he/she must notify the respective Main Office by 8:30 am or the school cannot guarantee him/her a lunch. Free and reduced priced lunches are available to qualified scholars. In order to be considered for a free and reduced lunch, a parent/guardian should complete an online application. Lunches and snacks should consist of nutritious foods and drinks only. Candy, cookies, cakes, potato chips, and other junk food, soda, and highly sweetened beverages should not be brought to school. See also Policy 8540, School Nutrition Programs. Staff members may confiscate inappropriate foods and replace them with school-provided food or drinks. SCHOLARS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BRING OR HAVE FOOD BROUGHT TO THE SCHOOL TO CELEBRATE BIRTHDAYS, HOLIDAYS (e.g., cakes, cupcakes, etc.). Scholars are expected to abide by the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School Code of Conduct during lunch, and to clean up after themselves. Keeping our shared environment clean is one of the hallmarks of respect! STUDENT RECORDS All student records are kept confidential, maintained securely, and limited in access to authorized persons as mandated by law. See N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7.1 et seq. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to review their child’s records from time-to-time. All requests to review these records must be made in writing to the Chief School Administrator.


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If You Move: If you move while your child is attending Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School, you must immediately notify the Administration Office via [email protected] or (609) 835-8370 (preferably in advance of the move). If you are moving to a different school district, note that you must complete a transfer form and register your child in the new school district – just as you did in your previous district. Failure to register your child in your new district will cause a loss of funding to the school and may result in the loss of your child’s placement at Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School. HEALTH SERVICES Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School has a full-time School Nurse, at each campus, who provides health services, health instruction, and contributes to the healthy living environment of the school. According to State regulations, treatment by the School Nurse is limited to first aid care for injuries occurring at school. Health Screening: The School Nurse conducts regular health screenings during the year, including visual, auditory, height and weight measurement, scoliosis (curvature of the spine), and blood pressure monitoring. These screenings are completed as required by law, and parents/guardians are notified of the results. Immunization Requirements: State law requires medically validated records of immunization to be on file for all scholars. Any scholar whose immunization records are not complete will be subject to exclusion. • PHYSICAL EXAM: Grades K, 3 and 7; all new scholars entering the school from other schools. • POLIO: Three (3) doses of oral vaccine, with one (1) dose given on or after the fourth (4th) birthday. • DIPHTHERIA-PERTUSSIS-TETANUS (DPT): Minimum of four (4) doses, with at least one (1)

booster having been received after the fourth (4th) birthday or any five (5) doses. • MEASLES: Two (2) doses of a Measles-containing vaccine given after the first (1st) birthday, and

before entering Kindergarten. • RUBELLA AND MUMPS: One (1) dose of each vaccine must be given after the first (1st) birthday OR

laboratory evidence of immunity. • MUMPS - One dose only. • HEPATITIS B Vaccine Series: Three (3) doses required for children born on or after September 2, 1996

(5 years old and older) who are entering or attending Kindergarten. Three (3) doses for children born on or after January 1, 1990 who are entering 6th Grade.

• VARICELLA: One (1) dose given on or after the first (1st) birthday or proof of disease immunity. All immunizations must have medical verification. Please contact the School Nurse if you have a question about state requirements or have a problem completing these requirements due to religious or medical reasons. Free clinics are sponsored by the Health Department; call your local Health Department for information on dates and locations of clinics.


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Communicable/Infectious Diseases: All of our scholars must be free of fever and communicable diseases in order to attend school. Parents/guardians are required to pick up their children as soon as possible should the child develop a fever at school or exhibit other symptoms of illness, injury, or conditions of a communicable disease (e.g., rash, pinkeye, head lice, etc.). Please note that Tylenol or other fever reducers cannot be given to children to keep them in school. If your child exhibits symptoms of a communicable disease, he or she must be excluded from school until proper treatment and care has been initiated and the condition has improved. The ultimate decision concerning exclusion issues rests with the School Nurse. Following a scholar’s period of exclusion, a physician’s statement may be required before said scholar is permitted to reenter the school. Special Health Needs: In order to address your child’s special health condition such as asthma, allergies or diabetes, the School Nurse will require a physician’s letter to be kept on file at the school. The letter should state the required medication, Physical Education limitations, and/or emergency care and actions necessary at school. The School Nurse will contact the physician for any information regarding any special health need, requiring medications, procedures, or care at school. Special health needs and information will then be shared with the appropriate school staff that care for your child. Medication: All medication to be taken during the school day requires a written prescription from a doctor or dentist; this includes over-the-counter medications such as aspirin. Please make every effort to give all medications at home. If you are sending medications to school, they must be in their original container. The School Nurse will keep all prescribed medications in a locked closet and administer them as prescribed. Any medications must be distributed to your child by the School nurse; no self-medication is permitted. Emergency Contact Information: Please make sure that the Main Office and School Nurse have current emergency contact information. A parent/guardian is responsible for notifying both the Main Office and School Nurse of any changes to their home and/or work phone numbers, as well as contact information for emergency contacts. It is crucial that Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School has updated information, especially in the event that a scholar becomes ill or injured while at school. ACADEMIC PROGRAM Our Mission: To reiterate, the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School’s mission is to promote high scholastic achievement while addressing social and emotional issues in order to develop character, build effective social relationships, and respect for self and others. The goal of the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School is to foster intellectual and social growth by infusing Social Emotional and Character Development (SECD), formally known as Social and Emotional Learning, into the academic curriculum to provide a holistic approach to teach a diverse student population. At Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School, we strive to understand each student as an individual and to differentiate the instruction to meet each student’s needs. This requires a strong partnership between teachers, parents/guardians, and scholars.


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The curriculum addresses not only academic goals, but social and emotional goals as well. Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School is committed to educating the whole child—programs to develop social skills are an important part of the program. Grading Policy: Scholars will receive grades three (3) times per year (3 Trimesters). All scholars will be graded using Standards-based grading to ensure scholars are learning and comprehending grade level concepts. The following is the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School Grading System:

91-100 A 81-90 B 71-80 C 70 ↓ F – Academic Probation

Scholars who receive a 70% or below in any academic class, will be placed on Academic Probation. Progress Reports: The evaluation of your child’s progress takes place in the form of Progress Reports three (3) times throughout the year. Progress Reports offer parents and teachers an alternative to traditional report cards, providing a more detailed view of a scholar’s progress and performance. A teacher’s narrative provides details about your child’s achievements and needs. Grades are locked (i.e., cannot be changed) two (2) days prior to report cards being mailed home. Standardized Testing: Like all public schools in New Jersey, the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School administers the statewide tests required by New Jersey law: NJSLA (New Jersey Student Learning Assessment) for all scholars. Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School’s goal is to have at least 70% of our scholars score on a Level 4 (Met Expectations) or Level 5 (Exceed Expectations). Computer Policy: The school’s charter calls for technology to be incorporated into daily classroom activities. Teachers and staff monitor Internet access from the classroom. Each scholar will be required to sign the school’s Acceptable Use Policy before they may use school computers, and adhere to Policy and Regulation 2361, Acceptable Use of Computer Networks/Computers and Resources. Field Trips: Well-planned and supervised field trips may be scheduled during the school year. Written permission from the parent/guardian will be required for any student attending the trip. No scholar will be able to accompany the class on a field trip without written permission – in such events, said scholar shall remain on school premises. A permission form for field trips will be sent home with scholars prior to the activity. Parents are encouraged to allow scholars to participate in the field trips, since they are planned to enhance the educational experience and information gained in the classroom. See Policy and Regulation 2340, Field Trips. Scholars are expected to abide by all Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School rules of behavior while participating in all off-site school activities.


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Curriculum: The school’s curriculum is available online at www.bannekerprep.com. Support Services: Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School participates in all mandated Special Needs, Basic Skills/Title I, and ESL academic support services. Please contact the Chief School Administrator for details. If you believe that your child may benefit from evaluation for any of these services, please speak with your child’s teacher. Special Education: Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School complies with all state and federal laws and regulations applicable to special education. Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School’s program emphasizes inclusion in the general education classroom for all scholars to the greatest extent possible. Occasionally, Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School’s Child Study Team (CST) determines that a student’s needs cannot be met within the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School program. The CST will then identify a suitable public or private school placement for the student that best meets his/her needs, and facilitate his/her placement in that program. Physical Education: Every student must take at least one hundred fifty (150) minutes of Physical Education/gym and Health per week. If you wish your child to be excused from physical education activities for no more than three (3) days, you must submit a written note to the Main Office. If you wish your child to be excused from physical education activities more than three (3) days, you must submit a written statement from a medical doctor. Scholars will be allowed to wear BLACK sneakers only for the 1st and 3rd trimesters for physical education purposes. CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School is committed to creating and maintaining a peaceful and respectful environment where all staff members are role models for the school membership by acting and speaking respectfully to scholars, parents and each other. Respect for one another, at all times, is the foundation of our interactions. The simple rules of courtesy and consideration for all others should govern student behavior. Conduct must support the mission of the school, which is to nourish personal excellence, support and encourage one's peers, and practice collective responsibility. Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School has adopted the use of the Positive Discipline program to ensure a universal approach that is kind and firm when dealing with conflict. In conjunction with Positive Discipline, scholars and staff use Conflict Resolution, and participate in a variety of school programs in which respect skills are taught, practiced, and implemented. ***Please refer to Policy and Regulation 5600, Student Discipline/Code of Conduct, and The Banneker System.

BENJAMIN BANNEKER PREPARATORY CHARTER SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT


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Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School follows the Social Emotional and Character Development model in our daily activities. Our scholars are expected to be respectful and responsible. We believe that all members of our community deserve respect, and to exist in an atmosphere of peace and safety. Our expectations of respect and civility are one of the foundations of our charter and will be taught and explained to our scholars and members, along with our discipline policy. In general, teachers handle the vast majority of disciplinary issues within the context of the classroom. However, disciplinary incidents that move beyond those addressed by the teacher within the classroom may qualify a student for the Reflection Room, Suspension or Expulsion. Aggressive and disrespectful behavior of any kind is not permissible and will result in consequences. Any instance of violent behavior—such as physical assault or fighting—will result in an immediate referral to the Discipline Committee as per the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School Discipline Policy. The Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School’s mission is to prepare scholars to succeed in high school and college by promoting high academic achievement while addressing social and emotional issues that develop character, build effective social relationships, and respect for self and others. Therefore, the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School will exert high expectations for positive and respectful behavior. One of the non-academic goals of the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School is to provide a school environment that is safe and conducive to enhance student learning. However, like any other institution of learning, there will be problems with student behavior. Suspension/Expulsions: Scholars with continued serious disciplinary issues may face suspension and/or expulsion. In accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:37-2, Causes for Suspension or Expulsion include, but are not limited to:

1. Continued willful disobedience, 2. Open defiance of authority of any teacher or person having authority over them, 3. Physical assault upon another pupil, staff or board member, 4. Willfully causing or attempting to cause, substantial damage to school property, 5. Conduct of such character as to constitute a continuing danger to the physical well-being of other

scholars. Grounds for expulsion of scholars from the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School will be done in compliance with all applicable state laws, particularly N.J.S.A. 18A:36A-9 of the Charter School Program Act of 1995. The criteria for expulsion include, but are not limited to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-2. At the discretion of the Chief School Administrator, scholars with excessive behavior issues may be suspended pending a hearing before the Discipline Committee or the Board of Trustees to determine whether it is possible for the student to safely attend Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School. Expulsion from Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School may also be determined at any time by the Board of Trustees in accordance with Policy 5620, Expulsion/Return to Home School District.


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Sexual Harassment Policy: Banneker Preparatory Charter School believes that every student has the right to attend our school and school-related activities free from all forms of discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment. We consider sexual harassment of scholars to be serious and will consider the full range of disciplinary options, up to and including expulsion, according to the nature of the offense. All scholars are expected to treat one another courteously, with respect for the other person’s feelings; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop. All scholars are prohibited from engaging in offensive verbal or physical conduct directed toward another student or adult. This prohibition applies whether the conduct is by word, gesture or any other intimidating conduct. Scholars and/or parents are encouraged to discuss their questions or concerns about the expectations in this area with the Chief School Administrator. See also Policy 5751, Sexual Harassment. Bullying Policy: Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School will adhere and enforce the state’s Anti-Bullying initiative (HIB law). The bullying policy protects the rights of scholars to a safe and comfortable learning environment, and it is strictly enforced. See Policy and Regulation 5512, Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying. Bathrooms: Scholars must receive permission from the teacher prior to leaving the classroom. Scholars must sign in and out when using the bathroom. Computer Use:

• Scholars are allowed to use the Chromebooks and the IPADs only with adult supervision. • No food or drinks are allowed in the classrooms near the computers or IPADs at any time. • Scholars are not allowed to play computer games during school hours. • Some computer games may be permitted during After-School Program at the discretion of

supervising staff; however, no games that involve shooting, fighting, and/or violence of any type are permitted. The prohibition on shooting games includes games that target human, non-human or “mechanical” targets.

• Games or websites containing materials deemed inappropriate by the Chief School Administrator are also prohibited. Inappropriate materials are any materials not suitable for classroom use by scholars.

• Scholars found to be playing inappropriate games will lose computer privileges.

• All scholars and their parents/guardians must sign the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School Acceptable Use Policy before using Internet-connected computers. See Policy and Regulation 2361, Acceptable Use of Computer Networks/Computers and Resources. See also Policy 7523, School Provided Technology Devices to Students.

Assemblies and Performances:

• All scholars must sit in their pre-assigned class seating area. • No rude or disruptive behavior shall be tolerated. • Scholars must be silent and respectful during performances and speakers. • Scholars must follow instructions of the teachers while moving to and from the assembly.


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Dress Code: Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School has a strict dress code and scholars are expected to be in uniform daily. Scholars should always be neat and clean while in school. Clothing should not be distracting or offensive, and should always embody respect for others in our school community. Therefore, UNIFORMS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY! Hats and head coverings may not be worn in the building or classroom unless they are required by religious observance. All clothing and footwear should be compatible with safety and should not interfere with a scholar’s ability to participate in classroom or school activities. For example, flip-flops are not allowed, as well as clothing that limits physical mobility. No jewelry is allowed to be worn except for rings, appropriate bracelets, and earrings the size of a dime or smaller. Earrings larger than the size of a dime are not permitted. Pants must be worn at the waist at ALL times with a black belt. Hoodies, jackets, or sweaters (other than those approved by Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School) shall not be worn in the building. School staff will notify parents if scholars are not in compliance with our uniform policy. See Policy 5511, Dress Code. Uniforms: See website Prohibited Items: Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School will assume no responsibility in the event of loss, theft or damage of personal property. Therefore, your child MUST NOT bring to school large sums of money, valuable jewelry, or any other items of value such as iPods, hand held electronic games, cameras, etc. Cell phones present a particular problem—they are extremely disruptive during school and are often misplaced or taken by other scholars. Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School is not able to investigate the disappearance or misuse of student cell phones that are not properly secured.

With this in mind, cel l phones WILL BE collected at the beginning of the day. Cell phones wil l be returned to scholars at the end of the school day during the dismissal routine or after the After-School Program. Any cell phones seen by staff during school hours (including during After-School Program) will be taken away, and the scholar’s parent/guardian will be required to pick the cell phone up from a staff member on duty in the Main Office. In addition, electronic devices and other non-school-related items that interfere with or distract from the educational climate should remain at home. If your child brings any of these items to school, it will be confiscated for the day and held in the Main Office until school closing. Please give this policy your support and remind your son or daughter to leave these items at home.


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SCHOOL GOVERNANCE This section covers the democratic governance of the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School. It contains information on the General Membership as a body, the Board of Trustees, the various standing Committees of the school, and the Student Council. Board of Trustees: The Board of Trustees is the formal legal entity responsible for proper management of the school. The Board of Trustees represents all parts of the school community—parents/guardians, staff and scholars—and serves as trustees for the interests of the children attending the school. The Board of Trustees has all powers and authority necessary for the management of the school, and has ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the school’s mission is fulfilled. The Board of Trustees has the authority to decide matters related to the operation of the school, including, but not limited to: budgeting, hiring, and operating procedures. Board of Trustee meetings are where the official business of the school, such as contracts and resolutions, is carried out. In addition to the president, vice president, etc., the Board of Trustees has a parent/guardian who votes as a member of the General Membership. The Chief School Administrator and staff representatives hold non-voting positions. The five main responsibilities of the Board of Trustees are:

ü Development of school policy. ü Financial and legal responsibility and oversight. ü Evaluation of the Chief School Administrator. ü Long-term planning, and the development (with the Chief School Administrator) of annual goals. ü Oversight and support of the school.

Trustees have the following duties:

ü Attending and publicly posting regularly scheduled Board meetings and publishing its proceedings. ü Planning and participating in general meetings. ü Articulating the school’s mission and ensuring broad access of information about the school. ü Approving major expenditures, curriculum and policies. ü Participating in the annual evaluation of the Chief School Administrator. ü Developing the school’s long-term strategic and annual goals, and periodically reviewing the progress

towards their attainment. ü Receiving state-mandated Board Member training. ü Attending functions of state-wide charter school organizations. ü Working to ensure the interests of charter schools are protected in state legislation. ü Keeping up with developments (internal, external, financial) affecting the school. ü Building involvement of Charter School community members and organizations in the wider

communities. Board Meetings: The Board of Trustees meet every 4th Tuesday of each month as per its published schedule. Meetings generally start at 8:00 pm, unless otherwise noted. There is always a Public Comment section where school members and/or the public can address any item that is on the agenda. Suggestions for items of business from any staff


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member, student, parent/guardian or citizen of the sending districts are welcome but must be introduced, in the form of a resolution, by a Trustee. If you have an item of business for the Board of Trustees to consider and place on the agenda, please submit the same to the Board President at least ten (10) days before the scheduled Board meeting, in order to give all Trustees sufficient time to review the item before the meeting. MISCELLANEOUS Lost and Found: All of your child’s personal items, such as lunch boxes, jackets, gloves, and other pieces of clothing, should be labeled with his or her name. In the event your child’s item does get misplaced, you may look for it in the Lost and Found Box. Please check it on a regular basis for your child’s items – it can fill up fast! Items not claimed by the final day of the school year will be donated to charity. Student Photo and Videotaping: From time-to-time, scholars may be photographed and/or videotaped as part of school activities or for educational purposes. No photographs of scholars for commercial purposes will be allowed. When you accepted admission for your child at Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School, you indicated your permission (or lack of permission) for such uses. Occasionally, a special project such as a documentary or publication may require an additional release form in order to use your child’s image. Please complete the photo/video release form, and contact us if you have any questions about them. Approved by Board of Trustees: August 27, 2019

2019-20 parent scholar handbook parent scholar handbook.pdf · scholars are to be dropped off in...

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