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Turning Point Academy Public

Charter School

Parent/Student Handbook

Ms. Rhonda Clomax - Principal

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Table of Contents

Principal’s Greeting ..................................................................................3

Forward ....................................................................................................4

Administrative Staff ..................................................................................5

School Procedures..................................................................................6-7 Attendance, Testing, Breakfast, Books

Bus Transportation ...................................................................................8

Cafeteria ...................................................................................................8 Lunch Money Ethics and Discipline ...........................................................................9-10

Bullying, Harassment ........................................................................11-16

Uniform Policy ..................................................................................17-19 Uniforms, Offence Notice

School Supplies .................................................................................20-22

Health Services..................................................................................23-24

Obligations, PTO and Personal Property ................................................24

School Hours ..........................................................................................25 Emergency Closing, Telephones, Visitors Parent Commitment to Academics .........................................................26

Academic Program .................................................................................26

Parent Discovery Groups, 5 Words, 5 Principles ...................................27

10 Priorities ............................................................................................28

Family Renewal ......................................................................................28 Overview, FLC, Discovery Groups, Family Weekends

Parent Commitment

Parent Responsibilities ............................................................................30

TPA Characters .......................................................................................31

2014-2015 Scheduled Meetings & Dates ...............................................32 Family Life Center, Board of Directors Meetings, PTO PGCPS Calendar .....................................................................................33

Library Calendar .....................................................................................34

Acknowledgement of Handbook ............................................................35

Parent Commitment Agreement .............................................................36

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Principal’s Greeting

The Turning Point Academy Public Charter School extends its welcome to students,

parents, partners and community. It is indeed an honor to serve you. I look forward to

working with you to sustain the Turning Point Academy school culture which is reflective

in academic excellence and moral character.

With high expectations and standards, our pursuit for academic excellence and each

child’s destiny depends on your willingness to support our efforts in translating our

vision, philosophy and mission into reality. As a staff, we will endeavor to provide an

academic atmosphere conducive to learning. At Turning Point Academy, all students are

expected to perform at their maximum level throughout the year.

Once again, I wish you a most successful school year, as we embark on this journey to

fulfill our vision and mission.

Educationally,

Ms. Rhonda Clomax

Principal

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FORWARD

The Turning Point Academy Public Charter School Parent Handbook

contains information necessary for the effective functioning of the

total school program. At the heart of Turning Point Academy is the

belief that the parent is the primary teacher, and home is the primary

classroom. Student success at TPA is directly linked to the

commitment of parents to participate in our program and to

demonstrate a willing and enduring commitment to the policies and

procedures that make our school operate in benefit of our students.

Our expectation is that parents and school staff will work in

partnership in these efforts.

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE HANDBOOK

The policies, procedures, and guidelines that have been outlined in

this book are provided to you as a resource and a blueprint to ensure

mutual understanding, cooperation, and acceptance of the values and

expectations of the Turning Point Academy School Community.

Without your commitment to upholding these values and

expectations, our work with your child is incomplete and

compromised.

MISSION STATEMENT

To establish an educational structure and culture that inspires the

children, the parents and the teachers to give their best, to pursue

their destiny and to develop their unique potential.

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Turning Point Academy Staff Contact List

Principal ...........................................................................Rhonda Clomax

Academic Facilitator ........................................................................ Tauheedah Lewis

Secretaries ........................................ Nancy Barboza, Principal’s Secretary

..............................................Doretta Brown, Records Secretary

Family Life

Character Education ............................................................. Lois Scales, Coordinator

Guidance ...................................................... Karen Thompson, Counselor

Transportation .....................................................................................Ed Grasty

IT/Computer Services ........................................................................... Jonathan Triggs

Health Services .................................................................................. Xlina Usim

Food Services ...........................................................................Cheryl Busarow

PTO President ............................................................................ Renee Ramirez

Parent Conferences ......................................................................... Karen Thompson

Report Cards ......................................................................... Karen Thompson

Textbooks ......................................................................... Suzanne Croskey

Time & Attendance ............................................................................. Doretta Brown

Substitutes ........................................................................ Tauheedah Lewis

Supplies ........................................................................... Nancy Barboza

Math/Testing Coordinator ................................................................. Suzanne G. Croskey

Math Resource ......................................................................... Karen Cushman

Reading Resource ....................................................................... Dr. Helen Turner

.............................................................................. Lesli Jackson

Special Education ......................................... Justin John-Langba, Middle School

................................................... Sharon Marshall, Elementary

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School Colors School Mascot

Maroon & Gray Eagle

SCHOOL PROCEDURES

Student Attendance Policy

Students are expected to be in school on time each day. School hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Students should not arrive before 7:45 a.m. No student will be allowed on the property unsupervised

before 7:45 a.m. All students must be in their class by 8:00 a.m.

Absentee Policy - School achievement begins with regular attendance. Parents/guardians must ensure

that all school age children in their care are in school on time daily. Additionally, school personnel must

communicate any attendance problems or concerns to parents/guardians in a timely manner. Parents are

required to send documentation of student absence in the form of a written note.

Lawful Absence - Absence from school, including absence for any portion of the day, shall be

considered lawful only for the following reasons:

1. Illness of the student. The principal shall require a physician’s certificate from the

parent/guardian of a student reported continuously absent for illness.

2. Students should bring a note signed by a parent or guardian to excuse the absence and also

receive make-up work.

3. Work approved or sponsored by the school, the local school system, or the State Department of

Education, accepted by the Chief Executive Officer or the school principal, or their designees, as

reason for excusing the student.

4. Death in the immediate family

5. Observance of a religious holiday

6. Lack of authorized transportation (This shall not include students denied authorized

transportation for disciplinary reasons).

7. Other emergency that’s declared by the Superintendent.

8. State of emergency

9. Suspension

10. Court Summons

Any absence for any reason not listed above is considered unexcused and the student will receive a zero

in all classes for work missed.

Unlawful Absence/Truancy – Unlawful absence and/or truancy is defined as the act of a pupil being

absent from school for a day or any portion of a day from an individual class or any portion of a class

for any reason other than those defined as lawful. Teachers are not required to provide make-up work

for students when absences are unlawful.

Tardiness - It is imperative for students to be on time at the beginning of the school day. The official

school attendance documentation is recorded during this time. Schools are required to admit students to

school regardless of the time they arrive (However, students who arrive late to school must report first to

the appropriate administrative office to obtain a late pass before being admitted to any classroom or

other area of the school). This pass must be shown to all of the student’s teachers as the student reports

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to each class during the day, as well as to teachers of any missed classes during the next school day. If

the student does not obtain and show the pass to all teachers, the tardy will be UNEXCUSED.

Additionally, for the tardiness to be excused, students are required to bring a note from the

parent/guardian explaining the reason for the tardiness.

Students tardy to school must bring a written note from a parent/guardian indicating the reason for

tardiness and telephone numbers for verification. The parent may accompany the student to the main

office upon arrival. Any student arriving after 8:15 a.m. must report directly to the Main Office or

secretary and sign in. Before 8:15 a.m. students are to report directly to class.

Early Departures - Upon arrival to school, students are not permitted to leave the school grounds at any

time during the school day without a permit from the Nurse’s Office and/or the Main Office. Students

who wish to leave school early must bring a written parental request to the Main Office immediately

upon entering the building in the morning. The written request must state the date, time and reason for

dismissal. The request must also include a telephone number where a parent can be reached for

verification during the school day. If a parent has a short-notice emergency, the parent must contact the

Main Office either by telephone or in person before the student will be excused from school. Parents

please contact the office by 12 noon if you plan to pick your child up early. Parents must sign all

students out of the building in the Main Office. Any student leaving school property during school hours

and/or after school activities without permission will be suspended. For early dismissal, the student

must be picked up before 2:00pm.

Testing/PARCC Assessment

The Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) Test is an exam given

to students in grades (3-8) which consists of reading and math. This test provides educators, parents, and

the public valuable information about student, school, school system, and state performance. PARCC

scores will show how well Maryland children have learned the reading and mathematics skills specified

in the Maryland Common Core State Standards. PARCC scores will also show how children performed

compared to other students across the nation. Students in grades (K-1) will take the Diagnostic Reading

Assessment (DRA) test, and grade 2 will take the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI) test.

Breakfast

Our breakfast program is open to all students. It is totally voluntary on a day to day basis. In order to

provide the most effective and efficient educational day, students may enter their classrooms for

breakfast at 7:55 AM. Turning Point Academy has been selected to participate in the Maryland Meals

for Achievement program, where all students receive breakfast. There is no fee associated with this

program.

Books and Equipment

Books and equipment issued to students are on loan for the duration of the course. Students are expected

to properly care for them while in their possession. Textbooks must be covered at all times. Lost books

or equipment must be paid for before any additional materials are issued. Students will be assessed the

full replacement cost for any lost books or equipment. Book checks will be done each quarter.

Restitution must be made for any damaged or lost books.

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BUS TRANSPORTATION

Riding the bus is a privilege and good behavior is required. Transported students are given a bus

assignment. Students are required to ride that bus only, to and from school. Students should be at the

designated bus stop 15 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. In order to maintain a safe and

orderly environment on each bus, the school supports the driver in maintaining safe bus-riding habits.

Anyone who violates the safety standards will be suspended or removed from the bus. Any destruction

of property on or off the bus while being transported may result in restitution, removal from bus,

suspension, and/or security/police action. Any littering is against Maryland State Law. An

EMERGENCY request to ride a different bus must be made in writing by the parent/guardian and

submitted to the office at least a day in advance of the request.

Please discuss the following Student Bus Rider Responsibilities (as determined by the school

system) with your child:

1. Be at their designated school bus stop ten (15) minutes prior to pick-up time

2. Remain seated while the bus is in motion

3. Keep noise down by talking in normal conversational tones only

4. Maintain normal classroom standard of conduct

5. No eating, drinking, or smoking

6. No animals or other non-school related objects should be taken onto the bus

7. Do not extend arms, hands, head, or any objects from bus windows

8. Do not throw any object from the bus

9. Cell phones may not be used while riding the bus

CAFETERIA

The school cafeteria serves breakfast and lunch. All students will receive a code to use when purchasing

breakfast or lunch. Every student will receive an application for free and reduced-price lunches.

Students have assigned tables in the cafeteria. As soon as all students are seated, the administrator in

charge will allow students to get in line. All students are required to place all trash in trash receptacles

and keep the cafeteria clean. Students must obtain permission to leave the cafeteria. The last five

minutes of lunch is QUIET TIME. All students must remain seated and quiet during this time. There

will be consequences for all students who refuse to adhere to this rule.

Lunch Money

Account numbers (PIN) are assigned to each student for a more effective and efficient meal program.

Students or parents may deposit money into their accounts or go online at myschoolbucks.com. If a K-5

student’s account shows insufficient funds, the Board of Education has prescribed that the student be

served a cheese sandwich. The school office does not lend lunch money to students. Money can be put

into your child(ren)’s account by cash, check, or money order. Checks should be made payable to Food

and Nutrition Services. Please include your student’s name and PIN on the check/money order. Please

place the cash, check, or money order in an envelope

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ETHICS AND DISCIPLINE Cheating

Students who cheat, plagiarize, or forge in connection with academic endeavor and/or school procedures

are subject to disciplinary action. Students found cheating will receive a zero (0) for the assignment.

Please refer to the Prince Georges County Public Schools’ Student Rights and

Responsibilities Handbook.

Education Article 26-101

Students who chronically disrupt the learning environment for others will be subject to Section A of the

Maryland State Education Article 26-101: “A person may not willfully disturb or otherwise prevent the

orderly conduct of the activities, administration or classes of any institution of elementary, secondary or

higher education. Any person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and

on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $2,500.00, imprisonment not exceeding six months or

both.” Should a student repeatedly disrupt the learning environment a conference will be scheduled

with the parent, student and the youth services officer who works with our school. A plan of action will

be developed in order to prevent further violation of Education Article 26-101.

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 6144 July 1, 2010

MONITORING AND EXITING PROCEDURES FOR SPECIALTY PROGRAMS

I. PURPOSE: To identify the steps to be taken when students who are enrolled in the

middle and high school specialty programs are experiencing difficulty in school.

II. INFORMATION: Continuation of a student in the specialty program will depend

upon the successful demonstration of minimal proficiencies in required courses.

A. Specialty programs offer challenging and innovative instructional content for students

who are interested in a uniquely focused or specialized curriculum. It is essential for

students to attain at least minimal levels of proficiency in required courses. This level of

achievement is necessary to ensure academic success in subsequent required courses.

Specialty programs are defined as visual and performing arts, creative and performing

arts, immersion, biotechnology, biomedical science and technology, music and

technology, international baccalaureate, and Montessori programs.

B. Required courses are courses in the student’s designated major or those courses that

comprise the specialty program.

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III. PROCEDURES: Students who fail to attain a “C” average or higher in one or more

of the required courses will be given academic assistance. The following procedures

apply:

A. The student and the parent must sign an agreement to uphold the standards of the

Specialty Program.

B. Academic assistance, initiated at the end of any marking period in which the student

experiences academic difficulty, will include a parent conference and strategic

intervention provided by the Supplemental Services Team (SST).

C. At any time, parents/guardians, teachers, counselors, administrators/coordinators may

request a review of the student’s grades.

D. Whenever it is determined that a student is in need of academic assistance, the

Coordinator will provide written notification of that action to the parents/guardians.

E. Students who have received academic assistance and fail to earn a “C” average or

better in required courses will be referred to the school’s SIT team for review. If

withdrawal is the decision of the school team and the parents, documentation must

accompany the written request for removal from the program and be forwarded to the

Area Office or the High School Consortium.

1. Once the Associate Superintendent has approved the removal, the principal will notify

the parent in writing of the decision to return the student to their regular attendance area

school at the end of the school year. The student’s withdrawal papers are sent to the

student’s boundary school.

2. The principal will send a copy of the withdrawal letter to the Department of Pupil

Accounting and School Boundaries. The student will be removed from the program file.

IV. RELATED PROCEDURE: Administrative Procedure 6143, Monitoring and

Exit Procedures for High School Magnet Programs.

V. MAINTENANCE AND UPDATE OF THESE PROCEDURES: These procedures

originate with the Division of Academics, Department of Pupil Accounting and School

Boundaries and will be updated as needed.

VI. CANCELLATIONS AND SUPERSEDURES: This Administrative Procedure

cancels and supersedes Administrative Procedure 6144, dated January 1, 2009.

VII. EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2010.

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BULLYING AND HARASSMENT

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 5143

July 1, 2013

BULLYING, HARASSMENT OR INTIMIDATION IN PRINCE

GEORGE’S COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

I. PURPOSE: The purpose of this procedure is to maintain a safe school environment that is conducive

to learning and to ensure that school administrators and staff take measures to promote

the prevention of bullying, harassment, and intimidation as well as prohibit reprisal or

retaliation against individuals who report these acts.

II. INFORMATION:

In accordance with the provisions of Section 7-424.1 of the Education Article of the

Annotated Code of Maryland, the Maryland State Board of Education developed and

adopted a model policy to address bullying, harassment, and intimidation. All local

school systems were required to establish a policy prohibiting bullying, harassment, or

intimidation based on the model policy by July 1, 2009. This policy focuses on student to

student bullying, harassment or intimidation. Allegations of students being bullied by an

employee are to be addressed under Administrative Procedure 4170, Discrimination and

Harassment.

III. BOARD POLICY:

It is the intent of Prince George’s County Public Schools to maintain safe environments

that are conducive to learning. The name and contact information for the MSDE

employee who is familiar with the reporting and investigating procedures in your local

school system (LSS) (Michael Ford, School Safety Specialist, both at 410-767-0311.)

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that school administrators take measures to

promote the prevention of bullying, harassment, or intimidation in the learning

environment and inform parents of these efforts. (Board Policy 5143)

IV. DEFINITIONS:

A. Bullying, harassment, and intimidation (BHI) are anti-social behaviors that are

conducted with the intent to cause harm and are characterized by an imbalance of power.

Bullying, harassment, and intimidation is intentional conduct, including verbal, non-

verbal, physical, or written conduct, or an intentional electronic communication, that

creates a hostile educational environment by substantially interfering with a student’s

educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, or with a student’s physical or

psychological well-being and is motivated by an actual or a perceived personal

characteristic including race, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation,

gender identity, religion, ancestry, physical attributes, socio-economic status, familial

status, or physical or mental ability or disability or is threatening or seriously

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intimidating; and, occurs on school property, at a school activity or event, or on a school

bus; or, substantially disrupts the orderly operation of a school.

B. “Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an

electronic device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer, or

pager.

C. Retaliation is an act of reprisal or getting back at a person for an act he/she has

committed.

V. PROCEDURES:

A. Reporting of allegations of student bullying, harassment, or intimidation

All reports must be written (and submitted to the school) or submitted electronically

using the Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation Form. Reports must be promptly and

appropriately investigated by school administrators or the administrative designee,

consistent with due process rights, using the Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation

Incident School Investigation Form within two (2) school days after receipt of a Bullying,

Harassment, or Intimidation Reporting Form. Copies of the Bullying, Harassment or

Intimidation Form can be requested from the school, downloaded from WWW.pgcps.org

or submitted electronically by completing the digitized form on the PGCPS web page.

B. Investigation of Alleged Incidents

All allegations of BHI must be promptly and thoroughly investigated by the local school.

The investigation must be documented using the Investigation Form and the Investigation

Notes Form and include all notes or communication logs related to the specific incident.

The following actions are to take place in order to allow the school

administration/designee to determine the appropriate course of action to address the

behavior. School administrators or the administrative designee will determine whether

bullying, harassment, or intimidation occurred by taking the following steps:

1. Meet individually with the victim, the accused and any witnesses to gather information

regarding the allegation.

2. Notify all parties involved in the incident that retaliation against a victim, witness or

bystander is strictly prohibited.

3. Document findings from the investigation on the Incident School Investigation Form.

4. Document all notes taken during the student interviews, parent contacts, and

information gathered from other witnesses on the Investigation Notes Form and attach

the notes to the BHI Incident School Investigation Form.

5. Indicate findings on the Incident School Investigation Form to include whether or not

the allegation was substantiated as bullying or not substantiated as bullying. If the

incident is not substantiated the reason must be noted on the form.

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6. Notify the parents of the victim and offender of the outcome of the investigation once

the investigation has been completed. The notification must respect the confidentiality of

the victim and the offender. Therefore, specific information related to disciplinary

consequences will not be provided.

7. Notify the Investigative Counselor or School Security Officer immediately if the

bullying, harassment, or intimidation creates imminent danger or qualifies as a delinquent

act.

8. Log the incident into SchoolMax indicating the actions taken to investigate the

allegations and the outcome (for directions see page 4, H. 1-15).

9. Submit a copy of the completed Reporting, Investigation and Notes Forms to the

Office of Student Engagement and School Support within five (5) school days.

10. Copies of the forms MUST be maintained in the principal’s confidential file. These

forms are not to be filed in the student’s cumulative folder or limited access folder.

C. Parental Notification

The school administrator/designee will immediately notify parent/guardian of the victim

and the parents of the offender of the incident.

1. The parent/guardian of the victim will be informed of the specific steps that the school

will take to intervene, interrupt and monitor the behaviors.

2. The parent/guardian of the offender will be informed of the specific steps that the

school will take to intervene, interrupt, and monitor the behaviors as well as the proposed

consequences as stipulated in the Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.

3. The parent/guardian of the victim may be invited to participate in the development of

an intervention plan for their child.

4. The parent/guardian of the offender may be invited to participate in the development

of an intervention plan for their child.

5. The parent/guardian will be provided with a copy of the intervention plan developed

for their child.

D. Follow-up actions by the principal or principal’s designee:

1. Separate conferences for the victim and offender will occur within ten (10) school days

after the investigation to ensure that the bullying, harassment, or intimidation has ceased,

and to determine whether there is a need for additional intervention. Individual

conferences may occur as part of the counseling intervention.

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2. A second conference will be held with the victim four (4) weeks after the initial

conference to ensure that the bullying, harassment, or intimidation has ceased.

E. Central support for parents and school administrators

a. In instances wherein the bullying, harassment or intimidation incident is unresolved,

and/or parent/guardians are not satisfied with the investigation; support may be requested

by the school or parent/guardian from the Department of Student Engagement and School

Support.

2. Support may be inclusive of, but not limited to, the following:

Independent review of the bullying, harassment, or intimidation report,

investigation and notes;

Interview of parties involved in data collection and disposition;

Review of disciplinary action as deemed appropriate, under the Student’ s Rights

and Responsibilities Handbook related to the incident(s).

Consultation with the parent/guardian and school-based personnel on alternative

strategies and supports.

Consultation with other involved offices regarding findings and recommended

actions.

The Department of Student Engagement and School Support will work with the school to

ensure that the incident is investigated and that the resolution is sufficient. The

Department of Student Engagement and School Support may amend the findings and

recommendations of the school pursuant to review.

F. Prevention of bullying, harassment, or intimidation

All schools will implement procedures to prevent and reduce acts of bullying,

harassment, or intimidation.

1. Each school-based administrator will provide annual in-service training to staff on

procedures to prevent, identify, investigate and report allegations of bullying, harassment,

or intimidation.

2. Schools will inform students and parents that bullying, harassment, or intimidation will

not be condoned.

3. Schools will inform students about the availability and use of the Bullying,

Harassment, or Intimidation Reporting Form and their use during orientation sessions

during the first week of school.

4. Parents will be informed about the availability of the Bullying, Harassment, or

Intimidation Reporting Form through appropriate school communication (i.e., school web

site, parent newsletters, student handbook, etc.)

5. Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation Reporting Forms will be available in the main

office, counselors office and other locations in each school.

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6. Copies of the form will be available on the Prince George’s County Public Schools

website.

7. Schools are required to conduct developmentally appropriate prevention activities such

as:

a. Holding regular classroom meetings with students to discuss safety concerns.

b. Clarifying and reinforcing classroom rules against bullying, harassment, or

intimidation.

c. Conducting classroom lessons on sensitivity and tolerance.

d. Forming an Anti-Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation Committee to assess the nature

and prevalence of bullying at the school.

e. Celebrating the annual national anti-bullying week.

f. Conducting grade level focus groups or a school-wide survey to identify problem areas

in the building and the level of bullying, harassment, or intimidation within the school.

G. Interventions to address bullying, intimidation, or harassment

Schools must provide intervention and support to victims and offenders to address acts of

bullying, harassment, or intimidation. These interventions may include, but are not

limited to, the following actions:

1. Parent/student conferences.

2. Counseling with the professional school counselor, school psychologist, pupil

personnel worker, professional school nurse and other appropriate professional staff.

3. Behavioral contracts

4. Positive behavioral supports, such as functional behavioral assessments and behavioral

intervention plans, etc.

5. Support counseling for the victim.

6. Support counseling for the offender.

7. Support counseling for bystanders.

8. Increased adult supervision during unstructured times (i.e. classroom changes, lunch,

recess, etc.).

9. Social skills training, including role playing and behavioral rehearsal.

10. Schedule adjustment.

11. Development of a plan of support for the victim and offender. The

response/intervention must be documented in SchoolMax.

H. Consequences

Consequences and support strategies for persons committing acts of bullying,

harassment, or intimidation, for persons engaged in reprisal or retaliation, and for persons

found to have made false accusations shall be consistently and fairly applied after

appropriate investigation has determined that such an offense has occurred. A range of

consequences is contained in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.

I. Inputting Bullying or Harassment Incidents into SchoolMax

1. Log in to SchoolMax.

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2. Select Discipline from the list of modules. The discipline page appears.

3. Select create an incident.

4. Input the date of the incident and the type of incident following the System prompts.

5. Select the appropriate event code (bullying or harassment).

6. Click the update button.

7. Select the appropriate bullying/harassment sub-code.

8. Assign participants to the incident:

-offender

-victim

-witness

9. Click Save.

10. Add a response.

11. Click on the response code drop down list and select the response type.

12. Click Save.

13. Add responses (investigative methods) in the order of occurrence (For example,

conference with student, conference with parents, counseling, etc.).

14. Save after each response.

15. For additional information refer to the online SchoolMax Discipline Training Guide.

The SchoolMax training homepage is at http://www1.pgcps.org/sis. Click on

Administrative Support on the upper left for the Administrators page. On that page, click

on discipline under online help. Choose the appropriate reporting category from the list in

the upper left of the page.

J. Professional Development

Appropriate professional development will be provided to all stakeholders annually to

support the implementation of this procedure. Professional development includes

trainings for students, staff and parents. Resources and materials are available on the

PGCPS intraweb. School-based security personnel must participate in professional

development on the response to bullying, harassment and intimidation.

VI. RELATED PROCEDURES: Administrative Procedure 0700, Information

Technology Services Acceptable Usage Guidelines; Administrative Procedure 4170,

Discrimination and Harassment; and Administrative Procedure 10101, Students Rights

and Responsibilities Handbook.

VII. MAINTENANCE AND UPDATE OF THESE PROCEDURES: These

procedures originate with the Division of Student Services. Regular updating of these

procedures will be accomplished, as needed.

VIII. CANCELLATIONS AND SUPERSEDURES: This Administrative Procedure

cancels and supersedes Administrative Procedure 5143, dated March 26, 2012.

IX. EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2013.

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UNIFORM POLICY

TPA uniforms can be purchased from the following retailers

All American Wear, Inc. 5001-B Forbes Blvd. Lanham, MD 20706. Phone: 301-459-5000

Flynn & O’Hara School Uniforms Lanham Crossing Shopping Center 8807 Annapolis Road

Lanham, MD 20706

TPA uniform policy is MANDATORY not optional. Parents of students not complying with the

uniform policy will be contacted to pick up their child(ren) for the day. Students will be marked as

“early departure” on that day and this will become part of their permanent student attendance

record.

Kindergarten - Fifth Grade Uniforms

BOYS: FALL & WINTER

Shirt: white boys oxford short or long sleeve

Polo: Burgundy long or short sleeve

Uniform Pants: Grey (ONLY) pleated slacks.

Vest: Burgundy sweater vest

Sweater: Burgundy cardigan sweater

Sweat Shirt: TPA burgundy “logo” sweat

shirt

Socks: white, black or grey

Shoes: All black (solid soft sole shoes)

Tie: Clip on plaid burgundy tie

Belt: Solid Black-must be worn at all times

SPRING & SUMMER

Polo shirt: burgundy

Uniform shorts: grey (ONLY)

Belt: Solid Black- must be worn at all times



Accessories Policy for All Grades

Girls may wear gold or silver earrings NO

larger than a quarter;

Boys may NOT wear earrings

No necklaces, bracelets or rings(Girls & Boys)

No Leggings, No Jeans, No carpenter pants

Watches may be worn

GIRLS: FALL & WINTER

Blouse: white Peter Pan short or long sleeve

Polo: Burgundy long or short sleeve

Jumper: Grades K-3 plaid pleated (Only)

Skirt: Grades 3-5 (Only) Solid burgundy or

plaid

Skorts: Grades K-3 Only Pleated 3 tab solid

Burgundy

Uniform Pants: grey pants (Only) - Only during Winter months (Nov-Mar)

Vest: Burgundy sweater vest

Sweater: Crew neck burgundy cardigan

Sweat Shirt: TPA Burgundy “logo” sweat

shirt

Socks or tights: burgundy, black or white


Tie: Cross tie


SPRING & SUMMER


Polo shirt: burgundy

Uniform Shorts: grey (Only)


Socks: burgundy, black or white

Shoes: All black (solid soft sole shoe

GYM UNIFORM FOR K-5TH GRADE STUDENTS:

YY

Shirt: white, gray or burgundy short sleeve TPA eagle T-shirt

Sweat Shirt: TPA “logo” burgundy sweat shirt

Sweat Pants: TPA “logo” burgundy sweat pants

Shorts: burgundy mesh shorts or regular uniform shorts

Nylon Sweat Suite or short set (purchased through TPA ONLY)

Shoes: Tennis shoes only (all black)

18

Sixth, Seventh & Eighth Grade Uniforms

BOYS:

FALL & WINTER

Shirt: white boys oxford short or long

sleeve

Polo: Black or heather grey

Uniform Pants: Black pleated

slacks (ONLY)

Vest: Black sweater vest

Sweater: Black cardigan sweater

Sweat Shirt: TPA “logo” sweat shirt



Tie: Clip on Grey tie (Mandatory)


SPRING & SUMMER

Polo shirts: Black or heather grey

Uniform shorts: Black (ONLY) No Jeans



Shoes: All Black (solid soft sole shoes)

GIRLS:

FALL & WINTER


Polo: Black or heather grey

Skirt: Grey (Only)

Uniform Pants: Black slacks (ONLY) No

Jeans - Only during Winter months (Nov-Mar)

Vest: Black sweater vest

Sweater: Crew neck black cardigan

Sweat Shirt: TPA “logo” sweat shirt

Socks or tights: grey, black or white


Tie: Cross tie grey (Mandatory)


SPRING & SUMMER


Polo shirt: Black or heather grey

Uniform shorts: Black (ONLY) No Jeans


Socks: grey, black or white

Shoes: All Black (solid soft sole shoes)

GYM UNIFORM FOR 6TH, 7TH & 8TH GRADE STUDENTS:

YEAR ROUND

Shirt: TPA Logo short sleeve white T-Shirt

Shirt: grey or black short sleeve TPA eagle T-shirt (available through TPA only)

Sweat Shirt: TPA “logo” black sweat shirt

Sweat Pants: TPA “logo” black sweat pants

Shorts: black mesh shorts or regular uniform shorts


Accessories Policy for All Grades

Girls may wear gold or silver earrings NO

larger than a quarter;

Boys may NOT wear earrings

No necklaces, bracelets or rings (Girls & Boys)

No Leggings, No Jeans, No carpenter pants

Watches may be worn

19

STUDENT UNIFORM

OFFENSE NOTICE

___________________________________ ___________________________________

(Student Name) (Teacher/Grade)

Dear Parent/Guardian,

Consistent with PGCPS Administrative Procedure #0600 and the Uniform Policy notice that you were

previously issued; your child is in violation of the following uniform offense(s):

OFFENSE #1:

For a first violation of this policy, the child’s teacher contacts the parents or guardians in

writing or by phone and notifies the Principal in writing that a violation has occurred.

OFFENSE #2:

For a second violation of this policy, the teacher refers the student to the Family Life

Coordinator who contacts the parents or guardians by telephone and in writing that a second

violation has occurred.

OFFENSE #3:

For a third violation, the Guidance Counselor contacts the parents or guardians again by

telephone and in writing to notify them that a third uniform policy violation has occurred.

OFFENSE #4:

For a fourth violation, the school administration arranges a parent conference and reiterates

the parameters of the policy and consequences of future violations.

OFFENSE #5:

For a fifth violation, the student is removed from the class for one full day and completes

classroom assignments provided by the classroom teacher in another part of the school.

OFFENSE #6:

For a sixth violation, a parent/student conference is called which includes representatives

from the school administration, the child’s classroom teacher and representatives from the

school uniform committee. A final warning is given to the student and his

parents/guardians advising them that another violation will result in the reassignment to

another school. The same information will be forwarded to the parents/guardians in writing,

as well.

OFFENSE #7:

On the occasion of a seventh violation within a school year, the student will be reassigned to

a school that does not have a mandatory school uniform policy. (See admin. Procedure

6144)

_______________________________________________

Principal Signature Date

20

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

All students are expected to report to school prepared to work. They should have an

ample supply of pens, pencils, highlighters; three hole punched lined paper, spiral

notebooks, three ring binders, composition books, folders, etc. Each teacher will provide a

list of specific supplies required for their class.

Grades K thru 8

Supply Lists

Kindergarten 2 packs of pencils 2 plastic folders with pockets 1 pair of scissors 3 composition books 1 pack of paper towels 2 boxes of facial tissue 3 packs of crayons 1 box of zipper bags (quart/gallon size) 2 bottles of hand sanitizer 1 big bottle of glue/pack of glue sticks

First Grade 4 composition notebooks 2 packs of glue sticks 1 Primary Composition book 2 boxes of tissue 2 packs of pencils (#2) 1 box of zipper bags (quart size) 2 bottles of hand sanitizer

Second Grade 3 24-packs of pencils 4 large erasers 4 packs notebook paper 1 pack of cap erasers 2 24-count boxes of crayons 4 bottles of hand sanitizer w/pump 6 composition books 5 two-pocket folders 2 rolls of paper towels 1 ruler (centimeters and inches only) 1 pack dry erase markers 1 highlighter 1 pack disinfecting wipes 1 pack sticky notes 1 pack construction paper 1 chapter book (to read during DEAR) 1 pack baby wipes 2 boxes of zipper bags (gallon size) 2 boxes of zipper bags (sandwich size) 1 clipboard 3 boxes of tissue 1 pair of scissors 1 bottle of glue 4 glue sticks

21

Third Grade 3 24-packs of pencils (#2) 4 large erasers 4 bottles of hand sanitizer w/pump 1 pack of cap erasers 8 composition books 5 two-pocket folders 2 rolls of paper towels 1 ruler (centimeters and inches only) 1 pack of dry erase markers 1 highlighter 1 pack of disinfecting wipes 1 pack of sticky notes 1 pack of construction paper 1 bottle of glue 2 boxes of zipper bags (gallon size) 1 chapter book (to read during DEAR) 2 boxes of zipper bags (sandwich/qt) 1 pair of scissors 1 clipboard 3 boxes of tissue 4 packs of notebook paper 2 packs of crayons (24 ct) 4 glue sticks

Fourth Grade 4 composition books 1 pack of cap erasers 3 packs of college-rule paper 4 large erasers 3-ring binder (2-inch) 1 pack of dry erase markers 8 dividers for a binder 2 rolls of paper towels 5 two-pocket folders 1 pack of construction paper 2 packs of pencils (#2 – 24-ct.) 1 pack of baby wipes 2 packs of pens (1 black & 1 blue) 2 packs of disinfecting wipes 1 pack of markers (10-ct.) 1 box of zipper bags (gallon size) 3 boxes of tissue 1 box of zipper bags (sandwich size) 4 glue sticks 1 pack of sticky notes 1 pack of crayons (24-ct.) 1 pack of highlighters 1 pack of colored pencils (12-ct.) 1 plastic protractor 1 pair of scissors 1 pack of sheet protectors 1 ruler 4 packs of index cards (3 x 5 inch) 4 book covers 1 pencil box or case 4 bottles of hand sanitizer 1 clipboard

Fifth Grade 3 packs of pencils (#2 – 24 ct.) 2 packs of loose-leaf paper 2 bottles of hand sanitizer w/pump 1 pack of colored pencils 3 composition books 2 large erasers 1 roll of paper towels 3 two-pocket folders 1 pack of dry erase markers 1 ruler (inches and centimeters only) 1 pack of disinfecting wipes 1 highlighter 1 pack of construction paper 1 pack of sticky notes 2 glue sticks 1 chapter book (to read during DEAR) 1 box of zipper bags (gallon size) 1 pair of scissors 1 box of zipper bags (sandwich/qt) 2 boxes of tissue 1 clipboard

22

Sixth Grade 3 packs of pencils (#2 – 24 ct.) 1 hardcover 3-ring binder (2-inch) 12 composition books 2 large erasers 1 pack of dry erase markers 2 packs of cap erasers 1 ruler (centimeters and inches only) 4 packs of sticky notes 2 highlighters (yellow) 2 bottles of hand sanitizer (w/pump) 1 pack of disinfecting wipes 6 one-subject spiral notebooks 4 glue sticks 1 chapter book (to read during DEAR) 1 box of zipper bags (gallon size) 1 protractor 1 box of zipper bags (sandwich size) 1 pair of scissors 1 clipboard 5 two-pocket folders 4 boxes of tissue (one per teacher) 2 packs of erasable pens (red & black) 6 packs of loose-leaf paper 2 packs of colored pencils 2 packs of crayons (24 ct.)

Seventh Grade 3 packs of pencils (#2 – 24 ct.) 1 protractor 5 two-pocket folders 1 chapter book (to read during DEAR) 12 composition books 1 ruler (centimeters and inches only) 6 one-subject spiral notebooks 1 pair of scissors 1 pack of dry erase markers 2 bottles of hand sanitizer (w/pump) 2 highlighters (yellow) 4 packs of sticky notes 1 pack of disinfecting wipes 2 packs of cap erasers 4 glue sticks 2 large erasers 1 box of zipper bags (gallon size) 1 hardcover binder (2-inch) 1 box of zipper bags (sandwich/qt) 2 packs of erasable pens (red & black) 1 clipboard 2 packs of colored pencils 4 boxes of tissue 2 packs of crayons (24 ct.) 6 packs of loose-leaf paper

Eighth Grade Agenda Book Highlighters (yellow preferred) Lined paper (4 packs) Protractor Disinfecting wipes Ruler Erasers 3 boxes of tissue Blue, purple, or green pens Hand Sanitizer Dry erase markers 3 rolls of paper towels Sticky notes Sandwich Bags (large and small) Index cards (small, lined) USB Flash Drive Scissors Colored Pencils 3 packs of #2 pencils (no mechanical) 8 Composition Books (Black & White – no spiral) Binder (1½-2 inch with dividers and pencil case)

23

HEALTH SERVICES Medication

Students are only permitted to take medication during the school day when it is prescribed by

their physician. This can only occur under the supervision of school system personnel. A

Physician’s Medication Authorization for Prescription and Nonprescription Medication Form,

PS-51, Parent’s/Guardian’s Acute Allergic Reaction, Form PS-51EPIPEN, or a Physician’s

Authorization for Medication by Inhaler/Mechanical Device Form, PS-51/INH must be on file

for each medication.

Students who are ill should remain at home rather than attend school and possibly risk infecting

other students. In the event that a student becomes ill or is in need of first aid, the school nurse

will be available during school hours.

In all non-emergency situations, a student will be allowed to go to the Health Office after he/she

has been excused from the scheduled class or activity and has received a pass. If the student is

too ill to continue with the normal day, a parent or guardian will be contacted and arrangements

will have to be made for the student to go home. In all other cases, the student will be expected

to return to class directly after being seen by the nurse.

Physical and Dental Examination Requirements

The law requires that students attending public schools within 150 days before the beginning of

the school year receive a:

• Physical examination, including a TB screening, and

• Dental examination

Generally, a child will be enrolled if a physical examination was held between April 15th and

the first day of school. Parents/guardians must have a licensed physician or certified nurse

practitioner and a licensed dentist complete, sign and date the School Health Certificate and

Dental Appraisal Form to show that the examinations were completed within the specified time.

Additional information is available from the Health Office at the School. Information regarding

Community Health Clinics and Department of Health clinics that provide free physical and

dental examinations or immunizations is available from the Health Office.

Immunizations

All children entering and attending school in Prince Georges County, are required to show

documented proof of complete, current, correctly spaced immunizations, or proof of medical or

religious exemption (Immunization of School Students Act of 1979 ). Likewise,

parents/guardians must have a licensed physician or certified nurse sign and date all

Immunization, Tuberculosis and Lead Screening Forms.

Special Note: Varicella (chicken pox vaccine) is required for all students (pre-K through 3rd

grades). Kindergarten students must receive 2 doses of the Varicella vaccine. Students enrolling

in 7th

grade are required to receive TDaP and Meningococcal (Meningitis) vaccine. Hepatitis B

series is required for all students in all grades.

24

IMPORTANT NOTE: Students who have not been properly immunized

according to state requirements and/or who have not provided the proper

documentation will be sent home and excluded from school until proof of

current immunizations is provided.

Administration of Medicine

TPA Leadership discourages the administration of medication in the school setting and request

that, whenever possible, medications be administered by the parent/guardian during non-school

hours. If your child requires medication while in school, the parent/guardian will need to fill out

the Parent/Guardian Authorization Form. Additional information is available from the

Health Office.

Authorization for Medical Procedures

If your son/daughter needs to receive any medical procedure, (for example, nebulizer

treatment), please inform the Health Office prior to the beginning of the school year.

The Parent/Guardian Consent Form/Physician’s Medical Procedure Order must be filled

out in order to provide the procedure. Additional information is available from the

Health Office.

Failure to Provide Immunization, Dental and/or Physical Documentation

Students who do not have the necessary health documents will be excluded from school until

the required documents are presented. Parents are expected to comply with the necessary health

regulations before the beginning of each school year.

OBLIGATIONS Payments for fees, dues, damages, or restitution must be cleared by the end of the marking

period to receive a report card. Payments for any obligation or financial debt must be made with

a money order, cashier’s check, or cash. No Personal Checks will be accepted.

Parent Teacher Organization

The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is a vital part of our school. We encourage parents to

become active members. A successful school needs the services of its parents.

Personal Property

Students should take care with their property and personal possessions. Do not leave them

unattended. Clearly mark and label all personal items. The school assumes no responsibility or

liability for any lost or stolen items.

25

SCHOOL HOURS Our school hours are 8:00am to 3:00pm for students. Office hours are from

7:30am to 4:00pm. Adult supervision will not be provided before 7:45 a.m. Emergency School Cancellation/Early Dismissal & Weather Related Closings

In the event of inclement weather, Turning Point Academy Public Charter School will decide

whether it is best to cancel school or open late based on the severity of the condition and the

risk it poses to students, parents, and staff. We follow the closings of Prince Georges County

Public Schools. On days that there is “No School”, or “Late Opening”, announcements will be

made on the following television stations:

NBC News 4 ABC News 7 News Channel 8 FOX5 CBS News 9

In the event of inclement weather prior to the start of school, we will also leave a message on

the School Office line indicating our school status for the day. In such cases, please call the

Office line at (301) 552-0164 and listen to the message.

In the event of early closings due to inclement weather, TPA School usually adheres to

decisions made by Prince Georges County Public Schools. If TPA School decides it is

necessary to dismiss students early due to bad weather, all efforts will be made to notify parents

so that they can make the appropriate arrangements. Since it is possible that school could be

cancelled or students dismissed early due to heat or inclement weather, it is a good idea from

the beginning of the school year to have a plan developed with your child so he/she will know

what to do in the event of an early closing.

Telephones

Calls for students will not be accepted during school hours unless there is an emergency. Cell

phones are allowed in school but they must be turned completely off (not on silent or vibrate

mode) during the school day and on the bus. If a parent wants his/her child to carry a cell phone,

the request must be made in writing. If a cell phone is turned on during the school day, it will be

confiscated by administration or security until a parent picks it up. Continued violations of this

policy will result in further disciplinary actions.

Visitors

Because the school staff is responsible for all students in the school, all visitors must report to

the main office immediately upon entering the building and show proper identification. All

visitors must wear a visitor’s pass while in the building.

26

We believe that parents must participate actively in their child’s education.

Parents are expected to go over each homework assignment every night with

students and are encouraged to contact teachers to stay in tuned to their child’s

progress. We encourage parents to meet with the teachers at least twice a year.

Designated Parent-Teacher conference days are usually a week after report

cards are issued. These occur 3-4 times a year and are noted on our School

Calendar. Meeting a teacher outside of designated Conference Days can also be

scheduled by contacting the teacher and making arrangements in advance.

Teachers will and do make themselves available outside of these times. Please

help teachers to assist you by staying in close communication with them.

A. GOALS, MOTIVATION & STANDARDS The Turning Point Academy Public Charter School academic program is designed to challenge,

engage, develop, and support lifelong learners. In each classroom students will be challenged by

teachers and peers to go after his/her best. The teachers will facilitate students through a

curriculum that is geared to helping them become more curious about their academics. . In the

elementary school students will commit to assisting teachers with helping them:

1. Develop the knowledge, skills, and habits they need to make sense of the world

around them; solve problems; and express themselves clearly in a variety of ways.

2. Develop the character traits represented in the Five Words and Five Principles and the

positive attitudes and habits that accompany those traits.

3. Develop the habits that are essential in preparing for successful completion of High

school.

Every student is expected to take an active part in his /her learning process. As in defining

one of the five words CURIOSITY (I am responsible for my own learning), students will

take responsibility for what they need to learn and will put forth their maximum amount of

effort.

The TPA classroom is a very important arena for character development. Students are

asked to consider who they are as learners, what their strengths and weaknesses are,

what attitudes get in the way of their success, and how they will address both these

skills and attitude issues. As much as they are learning academic content, they are

learning about themselves. They are learning to be persistent, independent, and

resourceful problem solvers.

PARENT COMMITMENT TO ACADEMICS

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

27

The most important aspect of the FLC is the monthly Parent Discovery Group Meetings. For

each month of the school year there are designated meetings held for parental personal

development. It is a mandatory portion of our program. Our monthly meetings are based on the

Ten Priorities, 5 words and 5 Principles.

If for any reason a parent/guardian is not in attendance for a monthly meeting, they need to call

and leave a message for their student’s school FLC coordinator (Lois Scales 301-552-0164).

There will be alternative meetings for those who miss regularly scheduled meetings. However,

attendance in alternative monthly meetings needs to be pre-arranged.

Courage I learn the most about myself by facing challenges and taking risks.

Concern I need a challenging and supportive community in which to develop my character.

Curiosity I am responsible for my own learning.

Integrity I am gifted with a unique potential and conscience is my guide to discovering it.

Leadership I am a leader through asking the best of myself and the best of others.

Destiny Each of us is gifted with a unique potential.

Humility We believe in a power and purpose beyond ourselves.

Conscience We achieve our best through character and conscience.

Truth Truth is our primary guide.

Brother’s Keeper We help others achieve their best.

TURNING POINT ACADEMY’S FIVE WORDS

TURNING POINT ACADEMY’S FIVE PRINCIPLES

PARENT DISCOVERY GROUPS

28

Truth over harmony

Principles over rules

Attitude over aptitude

Set high expectations and let go of the outcome

Value success and failure

Allow obstacles to become opportunities

Take hold and let go

Create a character culture

Humility to ask for and accept help

Inspiration: Job #1

OVERVIEW: The FLC is designed to emphasize, foster, and develop family renewal by bringing students

and parents together to focus on their personal growth. This is achieved through intentional

action-reflection activities. Such activities include off-site retreats, monthly parent discovery

group meetings, parent weekends, and The Biggest Job workshops focused on the 10

priorities. The FLC office is staffed with a coordinator designated as a parent liaison for the

school. This coordinator is in place to assist parents, students, and teachers as we work

together to help our students to reach their unique potential.

FAMILY LIFE CENTER: The Family Learning Center is the third and most important facet of our school’s mission.

We believe that “home is the primary classroom” and the support behind the character

development we work to instill in our students. Parents are required to participate and fulfill

commitments throughout the year. They are encouraged to attend workshops and participate

in leadership committees working to help our community to become like-minded individuals

centered on common goals and interests that better our community in all aspects.

RETREATS: The FLC sponsors retreats for parents, students, and parents with their students. These

retreats are focused on taking a deep look at oneself and how attitudes, both positive and

negative, affect the individual as well as the entire family. Families are encouraged to attend

at least one retreat during each school year. However, families that are new to our community

are required to attend a retreat prior to the opening of the school year. Each retreat is

structured so that participants have the opportunity to focus on themselves and not the family

or accompanying participant. Retreats are scheduled in the Metropolitan DC area in

Maryland and West Virginia. Retreat dates are available by calling your child’s school

coordinator and adding your name to the most convenient retreat date for you and your

TURNING POINT ACADEMY’S TEN PRIORITIES

FAMILY RENEWAL

29

student.

FAMILY WEEKENDS: Parent Weekends are held two times a school year. Students and their parents or guardians are

required to attend the weekends together. For each month that there is a Family Weekend,

attendance to that meeting will count as the parent participation for that month. Parent

Weekends begin on Friday and finish on Saturday afternoon. For families that have students in

more than one grade, the parent or guardian is required to attend the weekend with the oldest

sibling. It is encouraged that in a family where multiple students attend our school, alternate

family members attend as representatives for each student in the community.

Parents are also involved with our program through volunteer opportunities and parent-teacher

conferences. We have an open door policy and encourage parents to become active participants

in the education of their children.

PARENT COMMITTIEES: TPA parents and guardians are encouraged to participate in a number of school committees that

play an active role in shaping the academic and programmatic life of our school. There are

parent committees at each grade level which allow parents to work directly with the school

administration in shaping and achieving short and long-term goals for the school.

For more information about our School Committees please contact the Family Life Center.

Lois Scales 301 552-0164.

PARENT FACILITATORS: Parents who are interested in facilitating Parent Discovery Nights or other meetings and

seminars should contact the Family Learning Center for more information about training,

responsibilities, and other requirements of this role.

DISCOVERY GROUP: Each student will be assigned a discovery group. A discovery group is a structured forum for

communication among students, their peers and a faculty member. It is designed to encourage

students to take responsibility for their personal growth and learning through consistent

reflective exercises that guide them toward an honest and clear understanding of themselves;

offer opportunities to reflect on how their attitudes impact their lives and others; and address

concerns and issues that may interfere with their learning and their family relationships. Parents

and faculty members also participate in discovery group exercises for their personal growth.

Students will participate in Discovery Groups. All students (k-8) will follow the same monthly

themes which will incorporate an emphasis on our words and our principles.

JOURNALING: Journaling is a reflective activity that can be done with the whole school, curriculum group,

discovery group, etc. It can be done as an exercise unto itself or as part of a seminar. The goal of

journaling is to intentionally take time to reflect on our feelings and experience of the world

around us. The questions are generally focused on a particular topic. The Turning Point

30

Academy School words and principles are often the focus of the questions. Sometimes the

questions include time to journal on whatever is most present in our minds. At the TPA School,

part of the goal is, to respond to the questions, but also to share with and/or hear from other

people (students and faculty) in the community.

SCHOOL MEETINGS: School meetings are a critical part of our program. They provide a forum for conversation about

what is happening in the school; offer an opportunity for all members of the community to

express themselves publicly, and play an integral role in helping students and faculty to develop

a sense of community. All members of the school community participate in meetings.

Discussions provide constant reminders that we are all teachers and students. We continue to

gain insight and an understanding of our world by actively engaging in open conversations with

other members of our school community.

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES

It is the responsibility of Parents and Guardians to read this Handbook in its entirety and to

know and adhere to all school policies and procedures pertaining to your child’s enrollment at

Turning Point Academy Public Charter School. It is also the responsibility of Parents and

Guardians to update all personal information on a regular basis while your child is attending

Turning Point Academy Public Charter School, including but not limited to: current address and

telephone number(s), current emergency contact information, and current health forms.

The policies, procedures, and guidelines that have been outlined in this book are provided to

you as a resource and a blueprint to ensure mutual understanding, cooperation, and acceptance

of the values and expectations of the Turning Point Academy School Community. Without your

commitment to upholding these values and expectations, our work with your child is incomplete

and compromised.

At the heart of Turning Point Academy, is the belief that the parent is the primary teacher, and

the home is the primary classroom. Student success at TPA is directly linked to the commitment

of parents to participate in our program and to demonstrate a willing and enduring commitment

to the policies and procedures that make our school operate in benefit of our students. Our

expectation is that parents and school staff will work in partnership in these efforts.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if at any time you have questions regarding any

material contained in this Handbook.

32

FAMILY LIFE CENTER EVENTS

Parent Discovery Nights

Thursday, Sept. 18, 2014 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2014 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Thursday, Mar. 19, 2015 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Thursday, Apr. 16, 2015 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Family Weekends

Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014 10:00am - 4:00pm (at TPA)

Friday, May 8, 2015 9:00am - 4:00pm Book Fair, Awards & Family Fun Day (at TPA)

TURNING POINT ACADEMY BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS

Monday, Sept. 8, 2014 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, Oct. 6, 2014 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, Nov. 3, 2014 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, Dec. 1, 2014 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, January 5, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, Feb. 2, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, Mar. 2, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, Apr. 13, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA

Monday, May 4, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA

PTO MEETINGS

Thursday, Sept. 18, 2014 7:00pm @ TPA Discovery Night

Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014 7:00pm @ TPA Discovery Night

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2014 7:00pm @ TPA Discovery Night

Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA Discovery Night

Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA Discovery Night

Thursday, Mar. 19, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA Discovery Night

Thursday, Apr. 16, 2015 7:00pm @ TPA Discovery Night

2014-2015 SCHEDULED MEETINGS & IMPORTANT DATES

33

DATE EVENT PARTIES AFFECTED Monday, August 25, 2014 New Student Orientation 9:30am-11:30am

Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014 Back to School Night 6:30pm-8:30pm

Monday, Sept. 1, 2014 Labor Day Schools & Offices Closed

Friday, Sept. 19, 2014 Professional Development Schools Closed for Students

Thursday, Sept. 25, 2014 Rosh Hashanah Schools & Offices Closed

Friday, Oct. 17, 2014 MSEA Convention Schools Closed for Students &

Teachers

Friday, October 31, 2014 Professional Development

& Grading/Planning

2-hour Early Dismissal for Students

Monday, Nov. 3, 2014 Professional Development

& Grading/Planning

Schools Closed for Students

Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014 General Election Day Schools & Offices Closed

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014 Parent Teacher

Conferences/ Veterans

Day

Schools Closed for Students

Wednesday-Friday, Nov

26-28, 2014

Thanksgiving Holiday Schools & Offices Closed

Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014 Professional Development 2-hour Early Dismissal for Students

Monday, Dec. 22, 2014-

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015

Christmas/Winter Break Schools & Offices Closed

Monday, Jan. 19, 2015 MLK, Jr. Day Schools & Offices Closed

Monday, Jan. 26, 2015 Grading/Teacher Planning Schools Closed Students

Friday, Feb. 13, 2015 Professional Development Schools Closed for Students

Monday, Feb 16, 2015 Presidents Day Schools & Offices Closed

Friday, Apr. 2, 2015 Grading/Planning Schools Closed for Students

Friday, Apr. 3-Friday, Apr.

10, 2015

Easter/Spring Break Schools Closed for Students &

Teachers (Offices Open)

Monday, May 25, 2015 Memorial Day Schools & Offices Closed

Tuesday, June 16, 2015 Early Dismissal 2-hr Early Dismissal for Students

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 Last Day for Students 2-hr Early Dismissal for Students

Thursday, June 18, 2015 Last Day for Teachers

Thursday-Tuesday, June

18-19; 22-23, 2015

Inclement Weather Make

Up Days

If necessary

PGCPS 2014-2015 CALENDAR

LIBRARY TRIPS

34

Each class will visit the library once per month. Assignments and projects will be planned

around this monthly library time so students can make effective use of the library’s resources

and technology. More information, permission slips and library contracts are forthcoming.

Dates that we do not have school, library trips will not be rescheduled for

inclement weather days.

September 25: Rosh Hashanah

November 27: Thanksgiving Break

December 25: Christmas

January 1: New Year’s Day

April 2: Spring Break

April 9: Spring Break

Group #1

11:45a-1:30p

Group #2

12:45p-2:15p

Monthly Dates

Kindergarten 3rd

1st Thursday Sept. 4 Oct. 3 Nov. 6

Dec. 4 Jan. 1 Feb. 5

Mar. 5 Apr. 2 May 7

1st 4

th 2

nd Thursday Sept. 11 Oct. 9 Nov. 13


Mar 12 Apr. 9 May 14

2nd

5th

3rd

Thursday Sept. 18 Oct. 16 Nov. 20

Dec. 18 Jan. 15 Feb. 19

Mar. 19 Apr. 16 May 21

6th

7th

4th

Thursday Sept. 25 Oct. 23 Nov. 27

Dec. 25 Jan. 22 Feb. 26

Mar. 26 Apr. 23 May 28

8th

(10a-11a) 1st Thursday Sept. 4 Oct. 3 Nov. 6


Mar. 5 Apr. 2 May 7

35

I hereby acknowledge receipt of the Turning Point Academy Public Charter School PARENT-

STUDENT HANDBOOK, and I understand that I am expected to become familiar with its

contents. My signature denotes my agreement to abide by the policies and procedures outlined

herein.

(In the event that you have more than one son/daughter attending Turning Point Academy,

Please list each student and grade level).

_________________________________ ___________________________

Printed Name(s) of Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian(s)

Date Signed: _____________________

_________________________________ ___________________________

Printed Name of Student Signature of Student

Date Signed: ____________________

Student’s Current Grade Level: _____

_________________________________ ___________________________

Printed Name of Student Signature of Student

Date Signed: ____________________

Student’s Current Grade Level: _____

Return COMPLETED FORM TO:

Turning Point Academy Public Charter School

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF HANDBOOK

36

Turning Point Academy Public Charter School

Parent Commitment Agreement

At Turning Point Academy our parents are expected to support the school by attending the

Discovery Night sessions, Family Weekends, Faculty/Parent retreats and other events that are

scheduled to ensure that we meet our Charter Goals. We are aiming for 100% participation at

our after hour events. Character Education is an integral part of parent commitment, and it is

also the number one key to our success.

Turning Point Academy is a place of self-discovery and challenge, where every student is

capable of excellence regardless of his or her innate ability. TPA maintains a principle-centered

culture that inspires character development and emphasizes curiosity, courage, concern,

integrity and leadership. The Hyde process, developed for over thirty-five years at boarding

campuses in Maine, and Connecticut, is built on the belief that every person has a unique

potential and larger purpose in life, and character growth is the key to exposing that potential

and purpose. We focus on the “academic excellence” as well as “excellence in character.”

The Hyde philosophy is not for everyone. Only the parents, students and staff committed to

going after their best; looking closely and intensely at the meaning and direction of their lives;

and who want to put more time and effort into their education will be able to meet the academic,

personal, and social challenges which await them at the Turning Point Academy.

TPA offers students an exciting and challenging combination of academics, community service,

performing arts, athletics, and family education. These various components are interwoven into

a whole school experience which challenges attitudes, preconceptions and beliefs, and results in

a deeper self-understanding and commitment to living life to its’ fullest.

Lois H. Scales, Director of Family Life

By signing this, I ____________________________________________ verify that I have

read this statement, and agree to adhere to the conditions under which the charter school

(Turning Point Academy) operates.

______________________________________ _______________________________

Signature Date

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