Transcript

PARENT HANDBOOK

Charter School of Educational Excellence 260 Warburton Avenue

Yonkers, New York 10701

Cindy Lopez, Principal Jessica Jacaruso, Assistant Principal Jennifer Spina, Assistant Principal

914-476-5070 www.charterschoolofeducationalexcellence.org

"We aim to inspire, motivate, and instill a love for learning in all children.”

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Table of Contents

Message from the Principal 2

Our Board of Trustees 3

CSEE’s Commitment to the Education of Children 4

Mission Statement, Vision Statement, and Philosophy 5 - 6

Guidelines for Success 7

Our Instructional Program 8 - 11

Assessments Used to Monitor Progress at CSEE 12 – 13

Grading Policy and Report Cards 14 - 15

Honor Roll and Star Student of the Month 16

Homework Policy 17

Student Promotion Policy 18 - 19

Student Attendance and Punctuality 20 – 21

Uniform Policy & Dress Code 22 - 25

School Safety Policies 26 - 27

Entrance and Exit Procedures 28 - 29

Meeting with Teachers 30

Student Lunch and Recess 31

Student Activities, After School Hours, and Field Trips 32

Parent-Teacher Organization 33

Important School Documents Required from Parents 34 - 35

Parents as Partners & Supporting Education at Home 36

Tools for Learning 36

Parent Responsibility for Lost/Damaged Textbooks 37

Access to Student Records 38

Ban on Cell Phones/Electronic Devices/Money in School 39 - 40

Reporting a Concern & Surveys 41

Commitment Notices (For Re-Registering Students) 42

Withdrawing a Student from School 42

Emergency School Closing 43

Legal Notifications and Rights 44 - 48

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Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians: It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the Charter School of Educational Excellence family. The upcoming school year promises to be an exciting one for us, and we hope it will be for you as well. We are pleased to present you with our parent handbook. The parent handbook provides information that explains the code of conduct and policies upheld at CSEE. It also offers information about how your child’s progress is measured.

Parents play an integral role in their children's education and in making this a great school. We cannot achieve successful goals without you. We encourage your participation in the Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO), our programs, and extracurricular activities. As specific questions arise over the course of the year, please refer to this parent handbook to address your inquiries. Please feel free to call the school or your child’s teacher with any additional questions you may have. With standards and accountability measures becoming greater for schools and for students, we all have the highest expectations for the upcoming school year. I look forward to working together with you to make this academic year a successful one for our children and for CSEE. Thank you. Sincerely, Cindy Lopez Principal

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Our Board of Trustees

Eduardo LaGuerre Founder/Chairman

Sobeida Cruz

Founder/Trustee

Nadine Burns-Lyons Founder/Secretary

Jim Killoran

Trustee

Carlos Medina Trustee

Dr. James Stenerson

Trustee

Jasmine Colon PTO President/Trustee

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CSEE's Commitment to the Education of Children

The Charter School of Educational Excellence works collaboratively with colleagues, parents, students, and community in its commitment to provide children with a nurturing, safe, and secure environment that holds optimal opportunities to learn, thrive, and succeed.

Through modeling respect for ourselves and others, our students develop an appreciation for differences, and are inspired to capture a true sense of confidence, pride, and self-esteem.

CSEE emphasizes the character development in every child by guiding them to make moral and informed decisions. Children learn and understand at an early age that making good choices in life will help them maintain positive attitudes and a healthy lifestyle.

Giving all children every possible opportunity to maximize their potential and satisfy their natural curiosity to learn supports our belief that every child can learn. CSEE is committed to ensuring the success of every student through incorporating common core standards in building lifelong learning skills.

Through our effective instructional practices and consistent efforts, our students come to understand that our contributions to their education and our high expectations of ethics, self-discipline, and academic excellence are the key to their long-term happiness, success, and independence.

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Mission Statement

The Charter School of Educational Excellence's mission is to develop students who are critical

thinkers, motivated leaders, and lifelong learners. We are committed to a strong partnership

with our teachers, parents, and community.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to create a school that has high expectations for every child and challenge each child

to surpass the CCLS. In order for our vision to be realized, we believe philosophically that every

child must be provided first with a strong foundation in reading, writing, and mathematics. Once

the basics have been mastered, the child will have a strong foundation from which to tackle higher

order skills, and to achieve at high levels. Ultimately, we expect to see children engaged in

challenging work, such as conducting experiments for deep understanding, exploring cultures

and histories using primary documents, engaging in debates of classical literature, analyzing great

works of art, and appreciating musical compositions, among others. Our goal is for every child to

become a critical thinker and life-long learner.

Philosophy

The fundamental belief at the Charter School of Educational Excellence is that ALL CHILDREN

CAN LEARN. All children have the right to attend schools in which they can progress and learn.

They shall have a real opportunity to learn equally rigorous content. We hold our school and

parents accountable to the same standards as those of the highest performing schools in our state.

The Charter School of Educational Excellence encourages teachers to engage in “Performance-

based” instruction, so that our students learn both the basics and the higher-level skills they will

need after graduation. Performance-based classes are more difficult to design and teach than the

lecture approach, but they help children learn better and become excited about learning. Children

learn by doing. Students are required to prove, through their projects and presentations, that

they have mastered knowledge and skills in English Language Arts, mathematics, social studies,

and science.

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Guidelines for Success

We, the students of the Charter School of Educational Excellence promise to: 1. Respect our teachers, fellow classmates, and members of our community. We realize that

respect begins with us, and we must give respect to earn it.

2. Attend school every day prepared, on time, and ready to learn and participate.

3. Behave and follow all school rules.

4. Be attentive and polite in class so that these positive behaviors will promote an excellent

teaching and learning environment.

5. Keep our hands and feet to ourselves, because violence and hateful acts are the opposite of

what we stand for, and we want to live in a safe, peaceful, and friendly world.

6. Avoid using hateful words that would hurt other people's feelings, and apologize when needed

because we are kind, loving, and virtuous students.

7. Respect the property of our school and others, because we have integrity and want to live in a

world that is honest, trusting, and kind.

8. Maintain a healthy body and mind by saying "NO" to smoking, drugs, and alcohol because we

want to enjoy a long, healthy, and productive life.

9. Be leaders instead of followers. As leaders, we will act responsibly so we will not jeopardize

the freedoms and rights we enjoy as citizens of this country.

10. Develop our talents by using our time wisely to learn, study, and make the right choices,

because we want to be successful and prepare to become the future leaders of this great nation

someday.

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Our Instructional Programs

Curriculum & Instruction at CSEE The instructional program at the Charter School of Educational Excellence is specifically designed to meet all of the NYS CCLS. Our goal is for students to meet and exceed performance and assessment standards. Instruction is age/grade appropriate, with strong emphasis on the development of students’ social and academic skills through character building activities. Our programs offered are as follows: Creative Thematic Enrichment CSEE uses thematic units that combine reading, math, art, dance, music, computer skills, and field trips into enjoyable and informative lessons. Balanced Literacy/Balanced Math Our balanced literacy program uses authentic literature, independent reading, author studies, genre studies, and one’s own writing process to help better enrich and enhance students’ understanding of literature, reading, and writing. Our balanced math program incorporates many of these language elements into the math curriculum. Hands-On Science & Technology Our hands-on curriculum teaches the fundamentals of science, while encouraging exploration and analysis. Technology and computer skills are incorporated into the curriculum in all grades. CSEE’s course breakdown is as follows:

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS AND LITERACY DEVELOPMENT

English Language Arts (ELA): Kindergarten to 5th Grade

CSEE utilizes Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s Journeys Reading Program. Journeys is a comprehensive integrated core reading program for grades kindergarten to 5th Grade. Journeys supports the Common Core by emphasizing explicit, systematic instruction in the areas of reading, fluency, writing, speaking and listening, and language. The program provides ample practice and application of these skills, using a variety of meaningful resources and activities suited to different types of learners to reinforce instruction and learning. Journeys is easy to navigate, both in print and within its vast online resources. Journeys features a core reading book that integrates strong vocabulary and language arts instruction with children's literature. The Journeys supporting components include hundreds of leveled readers and leveled reader plans designed by Irene Fountas for excellent, research-based small group instruction.

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Our reading program is designed to teach every student how to read. Students read books at their independent reading level and share their thinking with their peers, while teachers confer individually and in small groups to move students forward in the continuum of reading. While reading skills and strategies are tailored to the needs and level of each individual student, aligned with ongoing reading assessment and practice, areas in need of reinforcement are supported as needed.

English Language Arts (ELA): 6th to 8th Grade

CSEE utilizes Prentice Hall’s Literature Common Core Edition for its 6th to 8th Grade ELA curriculum. Prentice Hall is designed to meet the rigors of the Common Core State Standards. Scaffolding and modeling ensure that all students can access increasingly complex material. Literary selections in the program include exemplar texts from the common core framework. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to analyze text structures and literary elements in depth. Skills workshops and independent reading features give students a chance to develop and apply strategies with increased independence. Writing, speaking, and listening are also integrated throughout the program with rigorous skill instruction.

MATHEMATICS

Mathematics: Kindergarten to 5th Grade

CSEE utilizes Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s GO Math! program for its kindergarten to 5th Grade Math curriculum. GO Math! is a focused program designed to meet the objectives and intent of the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. The author team for GO Math! consists of mathematics educators and school district personnel, and includes representation from the leadership of the NCTM. The team’s balance between state and national perspectives, as well as the team’s research expertise and practical experience, makes GO Math! both accessible and mathematically sound. GO Math! was specifically written to provide thorough coverage of the CCSS, with an emphasis on depth of instruction. Particular attention was given to providing support for teachers as they transition to a focused, rigorous curriculum. These efforts are apparent in the ways lessons begin with context‐based situations and progress toward more abstract problems. Students and teachers are supported as they advance from concrete to abstract content through the use of models and math talk prompts presented in the student editions, and sample questions provided in the teachers’ editions.

Mathematics: 6th to 8th Grade

CSEE utilizes Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s Big Ideas Math for its 6th to 8th Grade Math curriculum. The Big Ideas Math program promotes a deeper understanding of math concepts by use of a balanced approach of discovery activities and direct instruction with examples that capture and hold students' attention. Students gain a deeper understanding of math concepts by narrowing their focus to fewer topics. They master concepts through fun and engaging activities, teacher modeled step-by-step examples, and rich, thought-provoking exercises. Big Ideas Math also promotes mastery as it follows each introduction with real-life examples. Students immediately recognize how key ideas relate to their everyday lives, making connections that deepen and solidify their understanding.

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SCIENCE

Science: Kindergarten to 6th Grade

CSEE will be using Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s Science Fusion for its kindergarten to 6th grade science curriculum. Science Fusion is a state of the art science program designed for building inquiry, STEM, and optimized for learning in the classroom, at home, on a laptop, a tablet, or using a science textbook. The digital curriculum, virtual labs, hands-on activities, and write-in science textbook develops important critical thinking skills that prepare students for success in future science courses and in the workplace.

Science: 7th to 8th Grade

CSEE will be using It’s About Time for its 7th to 8th Grade Science curriculum. With It’s About Time, students take part in science learning experiences framed around answering “Big Questions” or addressing “Big Challenges” that guide instruction, and serve to organize their learning progressions. As students pursue answers, they conduct investigations, make models, collect and analyze data, weigh evidence, write explanations, and discuss and present findings. Students practice science in the classroom the way that scientists and engineers do. They work in collaborative groups to iteratively solve problems and explore challenges.

SOCIAL STUDIES Students study a comprehensive history and geography curriculum, which is integrated with music and art. Some topics presented in social studies include the study of Black History, Ancient Egypt, Early Americans, The Middle Ages, WWI and WWII, the French Revolution, and current events in Latin America. Students learn and develop map skills, research techniques, awareness of cultures, and the history of the United States and abroad.

MUSIC AND ART The music and art curriculum integrates social studies as its central theme, so that each history or geography unit is broadened and enhanced with related music and art experiences.

LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH

The first goal of foreign language education is for students to communicate at a basic literacy level in one language other than English. One of the goals of our Spanish program is to promote the acquisition and proficiency of social language. Students will be able to understand basic commands and formulate simple phrases. The second goal of the program is for students to understand the interrelationship between language and culture. Students acquire an appreciation for the cultures that exist within our community, and gain an understanding of gestures, perceptions, and learn about folklore. This will help students develop cross-cultural sensitivity and understanding.

Grades 2nd to 8th Grade: CSEE utilizes the foreign language Rosetta Stone interactive technology program for students in these grades.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH The physical education curriculum enables students to master fine gross motor skills. Students perform warm-up and cool-down exercises, both indoors and outdoors. Students become competent in a variety of physical activities, and especially skilled in a few. The health curriculum provides a setting in which students focus on health prevention concepts and practice life skills. Students will demonstrate an understanding of health promotion and disease prevention concepts to establish a foundation for leading healthy, productive lives. Students will also demonstrate the ability to identify and practice healthy living by enhancing behaviors and reducing health risks to live safer, healthier lives. Through physical education exercises, the language arts skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing are utilized in planning and organizing games and sports and in communicating to classmates and teachers. Students also use interpersonal and character skills in their discussions about games and sports.

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Assessments Used to Monitor Progress at CSEE

In addition to the mandated New York State Common Core Assessments, we are required to assess student progress on an ongoing basis. CSEE also monitors progress using: 1. DIBELS (Grades K - 2nd Grade) 2. Fountas and Pinnell Running Records (Grades K - 2nd Grade, as well as new enrollees, and

as needed) 3. I-Ready ELA and Math Online Assessments (Grades K – 8th Grade) 4. End of Unit Curriculum Exams 5. NYS Mock Tests (Grades 2nd - 8th Grade) Fountas and Pinnell Running Records A running record is a method of assessing reading that can be accomplished quickly and frequently. It is individually conducted and provides data on a student’s oral reading behaviors. Running records can be used to document reading progress over time, help teachers decide what students need to learn, and match students to appropriate books. The assessment measures both comprehension and fluency. New York State Assessments Elementary and Intermediate-Level students are expected to take a series of state examinations in Grades 3 - 8. These exams include the New York State Elementary and Intermediate Assessments in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, NYSESLAT, Algebra I Regents (8th grade only), and the Living Environment Regents. (8th grade only). NYS Common Core Standards NYS Common Core Standards can be accessed by visiting the website: https://www.engageny.org/resource/new-york-state-p-12-common-core-learning-standards Dates of Elementary and Intermediate State Assessments are posted online at: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/assessment/home.html Sample Preparation Exams:

ELA and Mathematics Sample Tests and Information: https://www.engageny.org/3-8

Science Sample Tests and Information:

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http://www.p12.nysed.gov/assessment/science/science-ei.html NYSESLAT Testing Information: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/assessment/nyseslat/ Common Core Algebra I Regents Information: http://www.nysedregents.org/algebraone/ Common Core Living Environment Regents Information: http://www.nysedregents.org/livingenvironment/

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Grading Policy and Report Cards

Parents are required to pick up report cards at scheduled conferences with teachers twice a year. Immediately upon reviewing the report card, the parent must sign it and return it to the school. If a parent is not able to attend report card conferences, they are responsible for scheduling a mutually convenient time to meet with the teacher and pick up the report card. Report cards will not be sent home with students in the fall or in the spring. Final report cards are sent home to parents with the students on the last day of school. CSEE assesses the performance of students on a trimester basis.

KINDERGARTEN – GRADE 8TH Exams & Quizzes

50%

Homework & Extension Projects

20%

Participation

10%

Folders & Notebooks

10%

Classwork

10%

GRADING – 80% = PASSING Report cards assess students based on the New York State rating rubric for content and performance. See rating rubric below for interpretation of New York State report card rating system. CSEE Grade Index: Level 4 92-100%

Level 3 80-91%

Level 2 65-79%

Level 1 64-below

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New York State Rating Rubric Description of Student Performance Level 1 Well Below Proficient

Grade-Level Standards Students performing at this level are well below proficient in standards for their grade. They demonstrate limited knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the New York State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards for the subject are(s) that are considered insufficient for the expectations of their grade.

Level 2 Partially Proficient Grade-Level Standards

Students performing at this level are partially proficient in standards for their grade. They demonstrate knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the New York State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards for the subject area(s) that are considered partial but insufficient for the expectations of their grade. Students performing at Level 2 are considered on track to meet current New York high school graduation requirements but are not yet proficient on Common Core Learning Standards for their grade.

Level 3 Proficient/Meeting Grade-Level Standards

Students performing at this level are proficient in standards for their grade. They demonstrate knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the New York State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards for the subject area(s) that are considered sufficient for the expectations of their grade.

Level 4 Exceeding Grade-Level Standards

Students performing at this level excel in standards for their grade. They demonstrate knowledge, skills, and practices embodied by the New York State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards for the subject area(s) that are considered more than sufficient for the expectations of their grade.

PROGRESS REPORTS In addition to the ongoing feedback teachers give parents through other means of reporting, interim progress reports which will give parents an update on how their child is performing on tests, discipline, and progressing in all subject areas. This feedback is intended to help parents work more effectively with their children at home. Progress reports are scheduled for distribution three times a year

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Honor Roll and Star Student of the Month

HONOR ROLL FOR GRADES 7TH AND 8TH Honor roll is determined by grade point average (GPA) for students in 7th and 8th grade. There are three Honor Roll designations: *GPA of 98%-100% GOLD LEVEL *GPA of 95%-97% SILVER LEVEL *GPA of 92%-94% BRONZE LEVEL

*Meeting and exceeding standards with distinction These designations can determine high school placement, scholarships, and the valedictorian and salutatorian at 8th grade graduation. Valedictorian and salutatorian criteria are based on two years of a student’s GPA. STAR STUDENTS OF THE MONTH (K-5TH) Students in grades kindergarten through 5th grade will have opportunities to be nominated for Star Student of the Month. Every month one student in every class will be nominated and his/her name will be displayed on the Star Student bulletin board in the school. Students will receive awards and certificates presented from the principal. LEADER OF THE MONTH (6TH-8TH) The Leader in Me is Franklin Covey’s whole school transformation process. It teaches 21st century leadership and life skills to students, and creates a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader. Each month, a student will be nominated for their positive contributions to CSEE and for demonstrating noteworthy leadership skills. These students are nominated by faculty and staff who have witnessed first-hand these students' leadership abilities. Students are selected by exhibiting the following: 1. Awareness of self and empathy with others 2. Ethical leadership principles and practices 3. Collaboration and problem solving 4. Commitment and action 5. Ethical engagement and citizenship

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Homework Policy

Homework is an essential component of a good and effective instructional program. Students are expected to do homework on a daily basis (Monday through Friday/weekends and holidays). Students must complete and submit homework assignments on time. Homework should serve as a follow up and reinforcement to the day's lesson and/or practice of skills learned previously. Teachers will make every effort to vary the types of homework assignments that are assigned so students are able to practice skills in all areas of reading, writing and technology whenever possible. Completing homework assignments on a daily basis helps students to develop responsible study habits at an early age. Homework MUST be assigned to all students during all school holidays and vacations. This includes Thanksgiving, Holiday, Winter, Spring and Summer Recesses. Activities are intended to provide practice in reading, math, writing and research skills. Homework should not be overwhelming and should always provide easy to read instructions. Teachers will not assign homework that is not relevant to topics covered in class. Students should be able to reference notes from their class notebooks that will support them in completing assignments at home. If a student is absent from school, he/she is responsible for making up homework. If a parent knows that their child will be absent for an extended period of time, the parent is responsible for notifying the school and the teacher and making arrangements to get all missed work, homework, and projects. A parent/guardian is expected to sign homework assignments and tests/quizzes that are sent home for correction and review.

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Student Promotion Policy

DECISION TO RETAIN A STUDENT

If a student is at risk and has not met New York State CCLS for promotion to the next grade level, the principal will review all student academic records, including: student work, class tests/quizzes, projects, and a student’s instructional intervention plan. Written notification will be sent in the third marking period inviting parent(s) to a Retention Notification Meeting. Parents will be notified formally in the third marking period of the decision “not to promote.” Such notification will be made in writing to the parent from the principal.

Summer school is mandatory for students that are recommended for retention in any grade. Summer school is not to promote a student to the next grade level. Students are expected to wear their school uniform during summer school.

OTHER PROMOTION CONSIDERATIONS:

Student Attendance Students are expected to maintain good attendance and punctuality throughout their education. A student must attain a 95% attendance goal for the school year to meet the Charter School of Educational Excellence’s promotion requirements.

Assessments & Performance Assessments are utilized in every grade level to monitor student learning and progress. Teachers will utilize a variety of evaluative tools that measure progress and mastery in all of the content areas. Assessing a student’s performance includes, but is not limited to, observation by teacher of student overall participation and performance in class, performance-based assessments, standardized tests, and other appropriate monitoring techniques.

Teachers will provide parent(s) with ongoing detailed information about their child’s academic progress through progress reports and report cards. Teachers will also maintain student work in folders to document student progress towards meeting grade level benchmarks and New York State Learning Standards and Assessments.

Intervention & Student Support Parent(s) are expected to be active partners in the education of their child(ren). Therefore, the principal will communicate to parents what the student must know and the level at which the student must perform to meet state standards and the promotional criteria. Parents will be advised by the 1st report card that their child’s performance is not meeting or approaching New York State Common Core Learning Standards. Early notification will provide an opportunity to review student work and discuss strategies and academic

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interventions that are geared to meeting the New York State Learning Standards/Assessments.

Any at-risk student and/or student with special needs will have a personalized academic intervention plan, and will be eligible for appropriate services under IDEA Act and Title I compliance mandates. The student will be prioritized to participate in after school programs, summer programs, and any other programs that are designed by the Charter School of Educational Excellence’s to promote student achievement.

PERFORMANCE-BASED/INSTRUCTIONAL CRITERIA FOR PROMOTION

According to CSEE’s grading policy, students must achieve an 80% to pass all of the subject areas.

Promotion for K-2 Students The early childhood grades K-2 are crucial years in preparing students for success in the later years. Students in Grades K-2 must demonstrate progress towards the New York State Primary Literacy Standards and Mathematics Standards. Students will be assessed frequently to ensure benchmark mastery of literacy and math skills.

Promotion for Grade 3-8 Students Student promotions in Grade 3-8 will be based on whether the student has met the New York State Standards in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science. A student must pass unit curriculum exams scoring level 3 or higher to be considered for promotion.

A PARENT’S RIGHT TO APPEAL PROMOTION DECISION

Parent(s) must first appeal the retention of their child with the principal. The appeal must be in writing within three business days of the notification to retain the student. The principal will consider the findings conducted of his/her review of students' results on test scores, class and homework, writing and math samples; teacher observations, and other relevant information before a final decision is made. The principal will inform the parent(s) of the decision to promote or retain the student within three business days.

Cindy Lopez Principal 260 Warburton Ave Yonkers, NY 10701 914-476-5070 Ext. 26

The parent may also appeal the decision to the Board of Trustees by writing to the board president.

Eduardo LaGuerre Board President Charter School of Educational Excellence 260 Warburton Ave Yonkers, NY 10701

The Board will review all relevant information and will respond to the parent in writing within thirty days.

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Student Attendance & Punctuality

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL Arrival time for students who eat breakfast in school begins at 7:30 a.m. Students will be picked up by their teachers in the MPR/Gym no later than 8:00 a.m. Instruction begins promptly at 8:05 a.m. Any student reporting to school after 8:05 a.m. must get a late pass at the reception desk before proceeding to his or her class. If a child demonstrates a pattern of arriving late to school, a letter will be sent home to the parent by the teacher or principal requesting a meeting or phone conference to discuss the reason for a child's chronic lateness to school. For the security and safety of our children here at CSEE, parent(s), legal guardian(s), and/or documented designees are the only designated individuals to pick up a child from school. If there is an emergency that impedes a parent's ability to pick up their child from school at any time, a signed note must be provided from the parent/guardian granting the school permission to release the child to an individual other than the parent/legal guardian or a parent designee as listed on the emergency contact form. The note must provide a telephone number where the parent or guardian can be reached so that consent by telephone is granted verbally as well. The individual picking the child up from school must present photo identification and sign the child out from school. The school will not release any student to any individual unable to present photo identification, or individuals who are underage. Each class will be assigned a designated area for line up in the morning and dismissal in the afternoon. Dismissal for walkers begins at 3:55 p.m. Parents are expected to make the necessary arrangements to have their children picked up on time from school every day, no later than 4:00 p.m. ATTENDANCE Accurate attendance records are kept daily. If a child is absent, the parent should call the school to inform the school of the reason for their child's absence. Absences are recorded as excused and unexcused. An excused absence is an absence that can be verified – for example, a letter from a doctor, a letter from a dentist, bereavement, a letter from a funeral home, religious observance, religious retreat, or a placement exam. An unexcused absence is an absence that is deemed unacceptable – for example, going to work with parent or a family member, attending a sporting event, going on vacation, bus not available/missing bus, personal problems, etc. Upon a child's return to school, the parent must submit an absence note. In cases of extended non-attendance to school for medical reasons, a doctor's note will be required. After three consecutive absences, the teacher will phone the parent and place comments in the attendance book. All attendance records are placed in the child’s permanent record file.

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LATE PROCEDURES

Between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, parents should drop off their children at the door. After 8:30 AM, the child must be accompanied by their parent/guardian to the Reception Desk to be signed in by the parent/guardian and get a late pass. A student reporting to school after 8:05 AM is considered late, and must pick up a late pass at the reception desk to be admitted to his or her classroom. We look forward to partnering with parents in enforcing consistent attendance, which is critical to the continuity of the learning process and student success. As we uphold standards for student success, we encourage parents to help their children maintain exemplary attendance. Academic testing and report card grades depend on consistent and prompt arrival at school in the morning and full daily attendance.

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Uniform Policy & Dress Code

The Charter School of Educational Excellence strictly enforces its uniform and hair policy. All students are expected to come to school every day, fully dressed in their school uniform, regardless of weather or any other conditions that may arise. Students must wear their gym uniform for the days they are assigned to participate in physical education. Student who do not have a gym uniform with them on the days they are scheduled to participate in physical education will be instructed to wear their everyday uniform, and will not be allowed to attend gym. Failure to wear the school uniform violates the school's uniform policy. SCHOOL UNIFORM Students are to dress according to the school uniform policy from the time they arrive until the time they leave school. All students must wear the uniform according to the following guidelines. Shirts and blouses must be tucked in all day. T-shirts worn under uniform shirts must be solid white. They must be free from any graphics

or lettering and may not hang out from outer garment at hemline or sleeve. Students may not wear a long sleeved shirt under a short sleeved uniform shirt. For warmth, students must wear a uniform sweater or uniform sweatshirt (for gym). Hats, scarves and other head coverings are not permitted during the school day. Pants and skirts must be worn appropriately, and fit neatly at the waist. Uniform sweaters and sweatshirts must be worn or carried. They may not be wrapped

around the waist, head, or shoulders. Coats and jackets, gloves, scarves, and any other outdoor attire is not permitted during the

school day. These items must be placed in the student’s locker, cubby or hanged up. PROHIBITED ATTIRE The Charter School of Educational Excellence promotes the academic and social development of all students in their early preparation for the real world and a successful career. In doing so, our dress code represents the standards of excellence our students are held to. The following attire is prohibited at CSEE and will result in a uniform violation notice: Doo-rags, hats/caps, hoodies, or any other type of headdress while on school grounds. Pants, shirts/sweaters with logos (other than the school logo) while on school grounds. Girls are not permitted to wear short skirts. Skirts should be knee length. Girls are not permitted to wear dangling or large earrings. Earrings for girls must be close to

the earlobe. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings while on school grounds or school trips.

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Students are not permitted to wear any type of wedges, shoes with high heels, or boots while in school grounds. Students must wear black shoes/loafers during the school day.

Students are not permitted to wear make-up, strongly scented lotions or perfume throughout the school day.

Students are not permitted to have long fingernails. For safety reasons nails should be cut short and should not be painted.

Please wash your child's school uniforms as often as needed. We recommend parents purchasing two or more uniforms for the week (slacks, shirts, ties, jumpers, socks) so that it does not become a hardship doing laundry several times per week. Clothing must be clean, pressed, in good condition, and fit appropriately. It is important that our children report to school looking neat and clean at all times. HAIR As part of our uniform policy, students’ hair must be kept neat and well-groomed throughout the day. The following hair styles will not be allowed:

Radical hair styles including mohawks, tails, spikes, unusual shapes, steps, cuts, lines, directions, or partial shaves, will not be permitted for boys or girls.

Hair colors other than natural hair color will not be permitted for boys or girls. This includes but is not limited to highlights, extensions with different colors that are attached to scalp, multi colored weaves. *Unnatural hair colors include but are not limited to blue, green, silver, maroon, etc.

Beards and mustaches are not permitted.

Boys’ hair must be cut short, and above the collar, and may not stand more than 1-2 inches above the head. Corn rows/braids are not appropriate for male students but if a student already has braided hair, the braids must be tied neatly at the back of the head, and the tail must not be visible. Girls’ hair must be washed regularly, be well-groomed and off the face at all time. If a student is wearing beads, beads must be of a solid color (school uniform color; navy blue or burgundy). If a female student has long hair it is best to keep the hair tied in a ponytail in order to keep the student’s hair safe. Long hair can become entangled/trapped in various places which can lead to an incident/accident. It can also become a distraction to the student and/or to the class as hair gets in the way of school activities and at times gets on other students. The administration reserves the right to rule on the appropriateness of the uniform and/or hair style. If a student reports to school out of uniform, the parent will be notified and will have to (1) bring the child’s uniform to school, or (2) pick-up the child from school. If a student reports to school with an inappropriate hair cut/style, the parent will be contacted and advised that they have 48 hours to correct the hair related issue. If a parent/student refuses to follow the uniform/hair policy, a meeting with administration will be scheduled. After meeting with administration, if parent/student does not cooperate, and behavior persists it can and will lead to a superintendent hearing and discontinued enrollment at CSEE.

*PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING PAGES FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ON THE CSEE SCHOOL UNFIFORMS FOR ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL*

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CSEE UNIFORM FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS (K-4)

K-4 GIRLS

Light blue “Peter Pan” collar blouse long/short sleeve with embroidered owl logo “CSEE”

Navy blue cardigan sweater with embroidered owl logo “CSEE”

Navy Blue knee-high socks Navy blue cross tie with embroidered with

“CSEE” letters Navy blue skirt (must be knee length) or

pants Navy blue jumper with embroidered owl logo

“CSEE” Solid black shoes

K-4 BOYS

Light blue dress shirt long/short sleeve with embroidered owl logo “CSEE”

Navy blue cardigan sweater with embroidered owl logo “CSEE”

Navy blue pants Navy blue necktie with embroidered CSEE

letters Solid black shoes or loafers

GYM

Navy blue sweatpants with “CSEE” letters Light blue or navy blue t-shirt with silk

screened owl logo Navy blue sweatshirt with embroidered owl logo “CSEE” Navy blue windbreaker with embroidered owl logo “CSEE” Solid black or white sneakers—NO LOGOS

Only on days that students are scheduled to participate in physical education are they permitted

to wear their gym uniform and sneakers. Students are required to wear their full gym uniform to

participate in all physical education activities.

ACCESSORIES & GROOMING Belts, if worn, must be solid black Colors for hair accessories should be limited to navy blue, black, and white

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CSEE UNIFORM FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS (5-8)

5-8 GIRLS White “Peter Pan” collar blouse long/short

sleeve with embroidered owl logo “CSEE” Burgundy cardigan sweater with

embroidered owl logo “CSEE” Burgundy socks Burgundy/grey striped cross tie with

embroidered CSEE letters Grey skirt (must be knee length) Grey pants Black shoes or loafers

5-8 BOYS

White dress shirt long/short sleeve with embroidered owl logo “CSEE”

Burgundy cardigan sweater with embroidered owl logo “CSEE”

Grey pants Burgundy/grey striped necktie with

embroidered CSEE letters Black shoes or loafers

GYM

Burgundy gym sweatpants with silk screened logo “CSEE”

Burgundy t-shirt with silk screened owl logo

Burgundy sweatshirt with embroidered owl logo “CSEE” Burgundy windbreaker with embroidered owl logo “CSEE” Black or white sneakers (gym days only) – NO OTHER COLORS

Only on days that students are scheduled to participate in physical education are they permitted

to wear their gym uniform and sneakers. Students are required to wear their full gym uniform to

participate in all physical education activities.

ACCESSORIES & GROOMING

Belts, if worn, must be solid black Colors for hair accessories should be limited to burgundy, black, and white

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School Safety Policies While we cannot prevent each and every emergency, our pledge to parents is to keep you informed about our school’s current safety procedures. Keep in mind that these procedures are NOT intended to limit a parent's access to their child. Rather, these safety protocols are designed to make sure that staff knows who is in the building and around our children at all times. Please check our website and notices sent home for events in which parents are invited to participate. For all other events, such as classroom birthday celebrations, parents are encouraged to make arrangements with their child’s classroom teacher. VISITOR’S PROCEDURES

Visitor's procedures are intended to ensure the security and safety of our children and staff.

1. Report to the security desk to sign our Visitor’s Log (indicating your time of arrival and your intended destination). Present a photo ID.

2. At the security desk, obtain a Visitor's Pass and wear it so that it is visible to all staff and students in the building. While in the building, please wear your pass at all times.

3. Report to the reception desk to announce your visit and present your photo ID. 4. Take a seat in our reception area and wait there for further assistance. Please do not

proceed past the reception area until you have been instructed to do so. 5. Sign out and return your visitor's pass to the security desk.

EARLY RELEASE OF STUDENTS Early release for students is allowed only under the following circumstances:

The student’s parent has a proven family emergency The student is suffering from an illness or injury or needs a change of clothing The student creates a situation in which he or she is a threat to the other students, to a

teacher, or to him/herself The parent notifies the school in writing, preferably in advance, or calls us the previous

day The parent notifies the teacher early in the morning and the early dismissal is noted. All

early dismissals are noted in the class Attendance Book. Parent is required to sign the student out in the early release book, located at the reception

desk, provide a photo ID, and MUST also sign and complete the student’s Pick Up Information Card.

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If a student who normally takes the bus needs to be picked up early or will not be taking the bus that day, parents MUST call the school and notify the receptionist no later than 3:00 PM for prompt follow up. After 3:15 PM, no students will be released for early dismissal, with the exception of a family emergency. In that case, a parent or guardian MUST fill out the emergency form and provide acceptable photo ID at the front desk before the student is dismissed. LATE RELEASE OF STUDENTS Dismissal is at 4:00 PM CSEE expects students to be picked up from school on time every day. In the event there is an emergency and a parent is not able to arrive on time for dismissal, the parent or designee must contact the school by 3:30 PM at 914-476-5070 Ext. 0 to inform the school of the situation. Parent must either indicate a reasonable time he/she will arrive to the school, or designate a person(s) to pick up the child. Any person(s) designated to pick up a student in the event of an emergency must be listed on the students' Emergency Contact Card and must come prepared to present proof of identity (photo identification) before the school releases the student. Photo identification can be a valid driver's license, passport, or other legal identifying photo document. If the designee is not listed on the student’s Emergency Contact Card, the parent/legal guardian must provide written and signed permission allowing the school to release the student to a person(s) not listed on the Emergency Contact Card. Signed permission may be sent or faxed to the school prior to or at the time of release. To get consent of release, the school may also request immediate telephone contact parent/legal guardian to verify designee's name, identity, etc. Parent or designee must sign the Student Pick Up Card at the time of release. These procedures are non-negotiable.

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Entrance and Exit Procedures

ENTRANCE PROCEDURES Upon arrival, all visitors, including PTO officers and parent volunteers, are required to sign in and receive an ID badge at the Security Desk and then report to the Reception Desk. The wearing of ID badges will assist school personnel in identifying those who should not be in the building. Unless specifically authorized by a staff member, no visitors will be allowed to proceed beyond the Reception Area.

If a person is not an employee, and is not wearing a visitor badge, employees will request that person to follow proper procedure and get a visitor badge from the Security Desk. Refusal to follow procedures and/or show identification will result in denial of access to the school.

SCHOOL EVENTS During other special events where large groups of visitors will be present (open houses, holiday events, etc.), the principal will have the discretion to waive the sign-in and sign out/ID badge procedure. We encourage all members of our community to take responsibility for their part in maintaining a safe school environment by promoting compliance with school rules, and reporting potential problems to the principal. EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN In the event of an emergency that requires school evacuation, the school’s official evacuation site is the Nepperhan Community Center located at: Nepperhan Community Center 342 Warburton Avenue Yonkers, NY 10701 Phone: (914) 965-0203/06 Contact: Jim Bostic, Executive Director FIRE DRILLS A fire drill is a method of practicing the evacuation of a building for a fire or other emergency. Usually, the emergency system sounds and the building is evacuated as though a real fire had occurred. The time it takes to evacuate is measured to ensure that it occurs within a reasonable

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length of time, and problems with the emergency system or evacuation procedures are identified to be remedied. CSEE conducts fire drills several times throughout the school year to ensure that everyone in the building knows how to get outside quickly and quietly. LOCKDOWN Lockdown drills are means of practicing preparedness in a school in the event of an intruder or unlawful act. Generally, an announcement is given that the building is going on an immediate lockdown. At that point, all occupants present at the time of the drill go to a room and lock all doors and windows tight. They must remain still until a "clear signal" has been issued. CSEE will do a lockdown drill one or two times per year. LOCKOUT Sometimes a school may only be on lockout. Lockouts take place when a suspect and/or criminal is close to the school perimeter. All doors that lead to the outside are locked, that way the suspect is unable to get inside the building.

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Meeting with Teachers

SCHEDULING A MEETING WITH A TEACHER If a parent would like to meet with his/her child's teacher, please complete a Request for Contact School Form found at the reception desk in the main lobby of the school. Teachers will receive these notices and contact parents to schedule a mutually convenient time to meet. It is the policy of the school that parents and teachers schedule appointments to meet, unless it is an emergency. Please be advised that all meetings, with the exception of parent teacher conference night, must take place between the school day hours of 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. CONTACTING A TEACHER VIA EMAIL All staff at CSEE have business emails to make it convenient for parents to communicate on an as needed basis. Emails were designed as follows: The first letter of the teacher’s first name, the last name @cseeschool.org. (For example: John Smith = [email protected]) Please allow 48 hours for a response, and be mindful that teachers can only respond between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM, with the exception of emergencies. Also, parents are not permitted to enter the school building before 8:00 AM when dropping off students. Please review designated drop off areas and leave students at the door. We discourage teachers from meeting with parents during entrance procedures in the morning since teachers are expected to start teaching by 8:05 AM. Parent/teacher conferences during instructional time are not permitted.

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Student Lunch & Recess

Classes will be scheduled to a specific lunch period every day:

Lunch Period 1 – 10:45 AM- 11:35 AM (K, 1st and 2nd Grades) Lunch Period 2 – 11:35 AM- 12:25 PM (3rd and 4th Grades) Lunch Period 3 – 12:25 PM- 1:15 PM (7th and 8th Grades) Lunch Period 4 – 1: 15 PM- 2:05 PM (5th and 6th Grades)

Educational assistants, school staff and schools aides supervise playground recess/activities. In good weather, students will have the opportunity to play and enjoy recess time outside during their lunch period in the playground. On rainy days and during the cold winter months, students will return to or remain in their classrooms, depending on their lunch schedule. They can enjoy some of the following activities during recess: - movies - learning games - reading - study time - socializing PACKING LUNCH FOR STUDENTS Parents are not to send food to school that requires warming. For students that do not eat school lunch, a cold/bagged lunch is recommended. Staff members are not permitted to store or heat food for students. This practice is prohibited in the school.

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Student Activities, After School Hours, and Field Trips

We encourage the participation of students in after school activities. It is obligatory for a parent/legal guardian to provide the school with written consent allowing their child to participate in any after school, extra-curricular activity or field trip. Phone and verbal consent from a parent cannot and will not be accepted. Students will not be permitted to, and may not, participate in any after school activity without written permission from a parent or legal guardian. FIELD TRIPS The school encourages teachers to take students on field trips. Field trips are meaningful educational learning experiences that allow students to experience education outside of the classroom. When students return from a field trip, an opportunity should be provided for them to write about their experiences and discuss what they learned. Principal must approve all trips, destination, date, etc. The school encourages class fundraisers to raise money for transportation and other trip related costs to ensure that all students are able to participate in field trips regardless of cost. Bagged Lunches. The school will provide all students with a bagged lunch, unless parent

informs the teacher that the student will be bringing their own lunch on the trip. Teachers require a one week notice if a student will be bringing their lunch.

Parent Consent. Timely notification is sent to parents to advise them of upcoming trips. Parent must return the signed consent form by the due date in order for students to be permitted to attend any class trip and/or out-of-building school activity. No exceptions will be made for any student failing to return a signed permission slip from a parent and/or guardian. Permission by telephone will not be honored.

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Parent- Teacher Organization (PTO)

The parents, according to the PTO Bi-Laws and regulations, create the Parent-Teacher Organization. The PTO President sits as an active member of the Board of Trustees. The PTO sets its own meeting schedule, which is distributed at the beginning of the school year. Parents meet one night each month, and staff and administrators are also encouraged to attend these meetings. There are PTO special events and fundraisers in which all parents are encouraged to volunteer, so that special events, cultural artists, and field trips may be purchased for the students attending the school. The annual PTO membership fee is $10.00. Parents are obliged to attend a minimum of five PTO meetings each school year. In addition to parents joining and participating actively in the PTO meetings, parents are also encouraged to attend sponsored events and to volunteer to support student activities throughout the year.

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Important School Documentation

Required from Parents

Use the checklist below to remind yourself to submit very important information that must be returned to the school. This information is very important to your child and to the school.

Have you returned your child's 2017-2018 school year forms? Student Emergency Contact Card (PLEASE UPDATE PERIODICALLY) Lunch Application Form Physical / Health Form (PLEASE UPDATE ANNUALLY) Dietary Restriction Form Media Release Form Neighborhood Walk Consent Form Student Internet and Computer Usage Policy

The school appreciates parents' immediate response to all requests.

LUNCH FORMS Breakfast & Lunch Programs The school will send home information that is collected the first week of school. Along with all school forms, parents must complete and return the lunch forms by the first week of school. Information disclosed on these forms will determine a child's eligibility to receive free, reduced or paid meals for the school year. Parents must complete and submit a 1041 lunch application form every year.

MEDIA RELEASE FORMS

Parents that do not wish to have their child photographed, interviewed, or mentioned in a newspaper, magazine, article, or other press releases must return the Media Release Form indicating their desire to not allow their child to participate. CSEE is often highlighted in local newspapers and other media outlets where students and staff are photographed and interviewed. The media release forms are referenced when posting photos of children on the school website, and other press releases intended for promotional purposes are newsworthy throughout the school year. If the school does not receive notification indicating exclusion for their child in any of the above mentioned activities, the student will participate if media opportunities become available.

NEIGHBORHOOD WALK PERMISSION FORMS

Parents may sign a neighborhood walk consent form that gives teachers permission to take a walk to a nearby area around the school. These neighborhood walks are usually intended to complete a class science assignment/experiment, collect leaves, or do nature

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observations outside of the school building. Signing a neighborhood walk consent form will give teachers immediate permission to have your child participate in a class activity on an as-needed basis. Please note that these forms cannot be utilized as permission to take a child on a field trip, or to any activity that is further than one or two blocks from the school.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS

A current physical is required for the following students: All new entrants (upon entering school in any grade), and all students in Grades 2, 4, 7, and 8. A physical must be completed “not more than 12 months prior to the commencement of the school year.

MISCELLANEOUS PROCEDURES

As a school stakeholder it is crucial that we have the most up to date information so that we can communicate within a timely manner. If your address or phone number has changed you must alert the school immediately so that we can begin updating this information into our system. *Please note that in the event of a move, you will be REQUIRED to provide the school with proof of residency documentation i.e. lease agreement, electricity bill, telephone bill, bank account statements, Cablevision bill, W-2 form, current water bill, property tax statement, payroll stub(s), voter registration card, DSS budget sheet, etc.* In the event that you choose to discharge your child from the school, you are required to complete and submit CSEE’s “Discharge Form” which can be obtained from the reception desk. Furthermore, if your child’s new school requires transcripts, please contact our Student Data Director.

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Parents as Partners, Supporting Education at Home, & Tools for Learning

PARENTS AS PARTNERS/SUPPORTING EDUCATION AT HOME The school expects parents to monitor homework to ensure children are completing all required assignments throughout the school year (including homework packets assigned during school breaks and summer vacation). Homework should be signed regularly by a parent. We encourage adults to assist in completion of homework, but NOT complete the homework for them. Your child’s teacher will provide you with a Parent Homework Policy Letter at the onset of the school year. This letter outlines the CSEE Homework policy in detail. Please return the lower portion of the letter with your signature acknowledging your support and understanding of this policy. THE SCHOOL EXPECTS PARENTS TO RESPOND TO AND SIGN ALL COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE SCHOOL THAT REQUESTS A PARENT SIGNATURE. This includes parents signing and immediately returning report cards, progress reports, academic progress alerts, communications from the school, tests, transportation violations, and other important documents that indicate that you have received and followed up on school requests. TOOLS FOR LEARNING A list of basic supplies was sent home with students in June with their summer learning packets, and was also listed on our school website. This list includes all the supplies teachers want their students to have. You will receive an additional list of school supplies at the beginning of the school year from your child’s music, art, Spanish, and technology teachers. It is important that students come prepared with all tools for learning every day. This includes children coming to school with non-mechanical pencils, non-retractable pens (for upper grades), and any other materials necessary to work, study, and learn. The school has the responsibility to educate your child. We would not be effectively fulfilling our role in serving your child adequately if they come to school unprepared and missing the materials needed to be successful in school. If a student demonstrates a pattern of coming to school without the necessary tools for learning (missing textbooks, materials, pens/pencils, notebooks, etc.), a meeting with the parent will be requested by the teacher, school counselor, and/or principal.

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Parent Responsibility For Returning & Replacing

Lost/Damaged Books

Textbooks that are taken home and assigned to students must be covered. It is recommended that parents cover student workbooks as well. Parents are responsible for reimbursing the school the cost of any textbooks that their child loses or damages. In the event a parent discharges their child from the school, all school property, including textbooks, must be returned to the school before official records can be released to the child’s new school.

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Access To Student Records All student records, including educational information which identifies the student either by name, number, or some other way, are either in written form or on a computer. They include personal and educational information, such as test scores, attendance, and guidance folders. They do not include discipline referrals or notes written by teachers or other school personnel about the student. All student records are confidential, and are enclosed in locked file cabinets. Access to Student Records by Parents, Legal Guardians, and Students: Authorized requests for students’ records will be honored. The parent or eligible student is entitled to duplicate these records or computer printouts.

However, original records may not be removed from the school. Access to the record will be made possible at the school’s earliest convenience. Parents or eligible students can make notes regarding the records. The record search is

completed at no cost to the parent or student. Duplication fee is at cost, but not to exceed twenty-five cents per page. If the fee becomes a hardship for the parent or eligible student, consideration to waive the fee will be given.

The principal will arrange for a staff representative to explain and interpret the record data to the parent upon request.

Parents who are disabled or who live outside of the school district are entitled to have photocopies forwarded to them. The principal will arrange for a staff member to interpret the record data to the parent by telephone or by mail.

In the case of estranged, divorced, or separated parents, or in the case of custody issues, requests by the custodial parents or legal custodians to examine the child’s records will be honored as outlined above.

In the case of requests by non-custodial parents to view the child’s records, the custodial parent or legal custodian will be notified of such request, and after forty-five days, if no documents are found which bar the non-custodial parent from viewing these records, the records will then be made available to the non-custodial parent.

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Ban on Cell Phones, Electronic Devices Policy for Students

and Money in School BAN ON CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES POLICY FOR STUDENTS Cell phones and other digital/technological devices/toys are strictly prohibited in the school. Exceptions are made ONLY for students that have extenuating circumstances that require them to have a phone when coming to and from school. If a student must have a cell phone, the phone MUST remain in off mode in the student’s book bag (Grades K-4) or locker (Grades 5-8) between 7:30 AM and 4:00 PM. If student is attending after school programing, the phone is to remain off until the student leaves the after school program. Since cellphones are to be kept in the student’s locker (Grades 5-8) or book bag (Grades K-4), the use of a cell phone camera, sending/receiving pictures, and using social media is also prohibited during the school day. Any cell phone or other electronic signaling device that is visible is considered in use and will be subject to confiscation by the school staff and administration. Any cell phone or other signaling device that rings or vibrates at a prohibited time or location is considered in use and will be subject to confiscation by the school administration. Any device that is confiscated by the administration will not be released to the student but shall only be released to the parent/guardian of the student. Students who have cell phones/electronic devices confiscated more than three times will be placed on a behavior contract and may be suspended from school for one day for continued defiance. If a cell phone or any electronic device is confiscated, a parent/guardian MUST come to the school to retrieve it AFTER 24 hours of the item being confiscated. If a parent/guardian is unable to come retrieve the device, the parent/guardian must provide a money order so that the device can be sent via FedEx to the home. We realize that having to pick up a student’s phone or device may be inconvenient and therefore we recommend you discuss this policy with your child in order to avoid this problem. Confiscated

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phones and devices will be labeled with the student’s name and kept in the main office until the parent takes possession. CSEE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST, STOLEN OR BROKEN CELL PHONES AND WILL NOT PAY FOR PHONES THAT ARE LOST, STOLEN OR MISPLACED BY STAFF MEMBERS AFTER CONFISCATION. MONEY IN SCHOOL We encourage parents NOT to send children to school with large sums of money. Keep money to a minimum of $2.00 - $3.00, and ONLY when necessary. THE SCHOOL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR THE LOSS OF MONEY OR ITEMS THAT ARE PROHIBITED IN THE SCHOOL. ALL ITEMS THAT ARE PROHIBITED IN SCHOOL WILL BE CONFISCATED BY CSEE ADMINISTRATION UNTIL A PARENT OR GUARDIAN COMES TO THE SCHOOL TO RETRIEVE THE ITEM MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 8:00 AM TO 4:00 PM.

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Reporting A Concern & Surveys

REPORTING A CONCERN If a parent has a concern and/or complaint, please follow the appropriate procedures below. All matters of concern must be first addressed at the building level with the principal.

Academic Concern/Complaint Process:

1. Request a meeting with your child’s teacher to discuss the concern. 2. Once you have met with the teacher, if the situation has not been resolved, request a

meeting with the academic team to discuss the concern. 3. After meeting with the academic team, if you still have a concern, request a meeting with

the principal, or complete a Complaint Form that will be forwarded to the principal for review and follow up. Complaint forms can be requested at the Reception Desk in the school's main lobby, or from the parent coordinator.

4. The principal will review the complaint/concern and contact the parents within 72 hours. Serious concerns are prioritized and responded to immediately. The parent will be required to attend a meeting at the school to discuss the concern/complaint.

5. If the concern has not been adequately addressed by the school’s administration after a meeting at the school, the concern/complaint is then submitted to the School’s Board. The parent is to contact the school’s Director of Government, Parents & External Relations, Carmen Goldberg, at 914-476-5070 Ext. 18 in order to submit a written complaint to the Board of Trustees.

In efforts for building administrators to respond to any concerns, it is important that parents follow the appropriate protocol to address school-related matters. SURVEYS As a public charter, we are responsible for providing data, feedback, and documentation that demonstrates our progress and success as a school at the end of each school year. Teachers, students, and parents will be asked to complete and submit a school survey during parent teacher conferences.

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Commitment Notices & Withdrawing A Student From School

COMMITMENT NOTICES (FOR RE-REGISTERING STUDENTS) Registration of Students Year to Year Students are not automatically enrolled at the Charter School of Educational Excellence year-to-year. Parents must sign a Commitment Notice Form re-registering their child every year. These notices are very important, as enrollment in a charter school is based on a lottery system.

If a parent does not return a Commitment Notice Form indicating their desire to continue enrolling their child in the school, the student will lose their seat at the end of June. Open seats become immediately available to students that apply to the lottery.

Make sure to return your completed form immediately when requested in the spring of every year to secure a seat for your child for the next school year. If a student is NOT returning to CSEE, the parent must return the Commitment Notice indicating "NOT RETURNING". Continued Enrollment Forms are sent to parents from the school sometime in April. If a parent does not receive one, they must contact the school by the end of April to request one. WITHDRAWING A STUDENT FROM SCHOOL If a parent withdraws (discharges) a student from CSEE and enrolls them in another school, the parent is required to notify the school in advance so that the school can discharge the student officially, and forward the student’s academic records onto the new school. It is very important that parents follow the discharge process.

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Emergency School Closings

Reports on emergency school closings due to weather or other conditions are posted on our school website, on the homepage of the Yonkers Public Schools http://www.yonkerspublicschools.org/, our Cable television station Channel 75 WDMC-TV, and are broadcast over the following radio and television stations:

WCBS (880 AM) WINS (1010 AM) WADO (1280 AM) Spanish WFAS (1230 AM) WSKQ (97.9 FM) Spanish WHUD (100.7 FM) WOR (710 AM) WNYW-TV Ch. 5 (Fox) News 12-TV WCBS-TV Ch. 2 (CBS) WNBC-TV Ch. 4 (NBC) WVOX (1460 AM) WABC-TV Ch. 7

WAYS TO SIGN UP FOR SCHOOL CLOSING NOTIFICATIONS

Parents may sign up to receive email school closing alerts by subscribing to the YPS Emergency Notification List. Emails are sent by 7:00 AM. We encourage parents to subscribe to this system to learn about emergency school closings.

A text alert system is also available. You can ask the front desk for this form at the beginning of the school year.

Parents/Guardians can also send a text message to the number 22300, with the word “ALERT” in the message to receive text alerts regarding school closings. Please make sure you receive a confirmation text back, stating that you have been signed up for the text alert system.

PARENTS ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO SIGN-UP TO RECEIVE CSEE EMAIL AND TEXT ALERTS

Notification & Rights

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER THE PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMMENDMENT (PPRA)

PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:

Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)–

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior or attitudes; 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –

1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition

of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and

3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

Inspect, upon request and before administration or use – 1. Protected information surveys of students; 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the

above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and 3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. CHARTER SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE will develop and adopt policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. CHARTER SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. CHARTER SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted

below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. CHARTER SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and will be given an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:

•Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution. •Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED. •Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("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 of the day the School receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal [or appropriate school official] a written request that identifies the record(s) 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 are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School principal [or appropriate school official], 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 advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for 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 consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in 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); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the School has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using its own employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or 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. (4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School District 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 20202-5920

“Personal Information” – individually identifiable information including – (1) a student’s or parent’s first and last name; (2) a home or other physical address (including a street name and the name of a city or

town); (3) a telephone number; or (4) a social security number.


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