KIPP ACADEMY
FAMILY HANDBOOK
250 East 156th Street Rm. 418 ∙ Bronx, NY 10451 Tel (718) 665‐3555 ∙ Fax (718) 585‐7982 www.kippny.org
KIPP NYC mission is to teach our students to develop the character and academic skills necessary to succeed in high school and college, to be self‐sufficient, successful, and happy in the competitive world, and to build a better tomorrow for themselves and us all. Updated September 1, 2009
Dear Parents/Guardians, Welcome to the KIPP Academy team and family! Since its start in 1995, KIPP Academy has dedicated itself in helping our students develop the necessary character and academic skills and habits necessary to succeed in high school, college and the world beyond. We continue to work together to provide opportunities so that our children grow up to have happy, healthy and successful lives. Whether our KIPPsters are in the classrooms rolling numbers, in Utah hiking up to Observation Point, performing at Madison Square Garden, identifying their reading levels, practicing their PETSEYs, they truly embody what it is to be a KIPPster. We practice working hard and being nice. We practice SSLANTing, tracking the speaker, echoing the question, public speaking and smiling. Due to the tremendous grit, love, hope, communication and support, we know our KIPPsters are certainly doing amazing things. We are always excited about the infinite possibilities, as we prepare for the opening of our KIPP High Schools and Elementary schools this summer. These are truly exciting times, and we are so glad that you are part of it!!! We recognize that these efforts take tremendous discipline and dedication, which can only be done with the joint efforts of families, staff and of course, our students themselves. In our attempts at continued open communication and access to information we have prepared a handbook regarding the school’s structure, attendance, schedule, culture, academics, among other pieces of helpful information. Hopefully this handbook will serve as a useful resource to answer many questions you may have. Please keep it handy so that you may refer to it when necessary. We look forward to an exciting and positive year! Once again welcome to yet another year promising to be filled with nothing but greatness, enthusiasm, love and dedication. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, comments or concerns. Thank you for your faith and support, Blanca Ruiz Principal
[email protected] 917‐548‐3793
TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS .......................................................................................................................................... 3 WHO WE ARE…… ............................................................................................................................................... 5 KIPP MISSION ................................................................................................................................................................... 5 OUR BEGINNING .............................................................................................................................................................. 5 KIPP ACADEMY CREDO: ................................................................................................................................................... 5 KIPP CREDO: ..................................................................................................................................................................... 5 At KIPP, we believe. ......................................................................................................................................................... 5 KIPP COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE ............................................................................................................................... 6 SOME OF WHAT EVERY KIPPSTER LEARNS DURING WEEK ONE… ......................................................................... 7 KIPP ACADEMY STAFF PHONE LIST ..................................................................................................................... 9 GENERAL INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................... 11 ENROLLMENT ................................................................................................................................................................. 11 WHO SHOULD I ASK? ..................................................................................................................................................... 11 ATTENDANCE ................................................................................................................................................................. 12 FOOD SERVICES .............................................................................................................................................................. 12 TRANSPORTATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 12 FIELD TRIPS .................................................................................................................................................................... 13 COMMUNICATING WITH STAFF AND TEACHERS ........................................................................................................... 13 CELL PHONE USAGE ....................................................................................................................................................... 13 PERSONAL BELONGINGS ................................................................................................................................................ 14 HEALTH AND SAFETY ......................................................................................................................................... 16 IMMUNIZATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................... 16 REPORTING A CHILD’S SICKNESS .................................................................................................................................... 16 ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL HOURS .................................................................................................................................. 16 COUNSELING SERVICES .................................................................................................................................................. 16 CALENDAR AND SCHEDULE ............................................................................................................................... 17 START/END DATES ......................................................................................................................................................... 17 VACATIONS/HOLIDAYS .................................................................................................................................................. 17 SCHOOL CLOSINGS (BAD WEATHER) ............................................................................................................................. 17 SUMMER SCHOOL .......................................................................................................................................................... 17 SATURDAY SCHOOL........................................................................................................................................................ 17 EXTRA‐CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ..................................................................................................................................... 17 VOLUNTARY AFTER‐SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ....................................................................................................................... 17 SCHOOL SCHEDULE ........................................................................................................................................................ 18 ACADEMICS ‐ “WORK HARD” ............................................................................................................................ 19 HOMEWORK .................................................................................................................................................................. 23 CHEATING/PLAGIARISM ................................................................................................................................................. 24 PROMOTION TO THE NEXT GRADE ................................................................................................................................ 24 STANDARDIZED TESTING ............................................................................................................................................... 25
STUDENT ORGANIZATION AND SUPPLIES ...................................................................................................................... 25 KIPP PAYCHECK SYSTEM .................................................................................................................................... 26 PAYCHECK DEFINITIONS AND VALUES ‐ 5th and 6th GRADE ....................................................................................... 27 PAYCHECK DEFINITIONS AND VALUES ‐ 7th and 8th GRADE ....................................................................................... 27 FAMILY INVOLVEMENT ..................................................................................................................................... 31 WHAT ARE A FEW WAYS I CAN GET INVOLVED? ........................................................................................................... 33
WHO WE ARE…
KIPP MISSION KIPP Academy’s mission is to teach our students to develop the academic and character skills necessary to succeed in high school and college, to be self‐sufficient, successful, and happy in the competitive world, and to build a better tomorrow for themselves and us all.
OUR BEGINNING In 1995, KIPP Academy opened in the South Bronx serving 45 fifth graders. This year, KIPP Academy will serve approximately 255 students in fifth through eighth grade. KIPP Academy is part of KIPP NYC which currently serves over 1,750 students and alumni at four middle schools (Harlem, Crown Heights, and the South Bronx). This summer, KIPP NYC will open a new high school and the first of four elementary schools. From the beginning, KIPP has focused on developing academic and character skills. Since day one, the key to this has been the amazing teamwork of parents, students, and teachers all working together.
KIPP ACADEMY CREDO: If there is a problem, we look for a solution. If there is a better way, we try to find it. If we need help, we ask. If a teammate needs help, we give.
KIPP CREDO: At KIPP, we believe. We believe in the creation of inspired lives produced by desire, discipline, and dedication. We are not frightened by the challenges of reality but believe that we can change our world and our place within in it. We work, plan, create, and dream. Our talent, character, and integrity will be the tools we need to build a better tomorrow. We believe that we can take this place, this time, and the people here and build a better place, a better time, and a better people. As a team and a family, we will either find a way or make one. ‐ Inspired by Providence St. Mel School Motto
KIPP COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
TEACHERS' COMMITMENT: We fully commit to KIPP in the following ways: We will arrive at KIPP every day by 7:25 A.M. (Mon. ‐ Fri.) We will remain at KIPP until 5:00 P.M. (Mon. ‐ Thurs.) We will come to KIPP on appropriate Saturdays at 9:00 A.M. and remain until 1:00 P.M. We will teach KIPP during the summer July 13th – 31st We will always teach in the best way we know how and we will do whatever it takes for our students to learn. We will always make ourselves available to students, parents, and any concerns they might have. We will always protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom. Failure to adhere to these commitments can lead to our removal from KIPP.
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PARENTS'/GUARDIANS' COMMITMENT: We fully commit to KIPP in the following ways: We will make sure our child arrives at KIPP every day by 7:25 a.m. (Mon. ‐ Fri.) We will make arrangements so our child can remain at KIPP until 5:00 p.m. (Mon. ‐ Thurs.) We will make arrangements for our child to come to KIPP on appropriate Saturdays at 9AM and remain until 1PM We will ensure that our child attends KIPP summer school July 13th – 31st We will always help our child in the best way we know how and we will do whatever it takes for him/her to learn. This also means that we will check our child's homework every night, let him/her call the teacher if there is a problem with the homework, try to read with him/her every night, and limit the amount of television they watch. We will always make ourselves available to our children, the school, and any concerns they might have. This also means that if our child is going to miss school, we will notify the teacher as soon as possible and we will read carefully all the papers that the school sends home to us. We will make sure our child comes to school everyday with the materials they need to succeed. (pens, pencils, paper…) We will allow our child to go on KIPP field trips. We will make sure our child follows the KIPP dress code. We understand that our child must follow the KIPP rules so as to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom. We, not the school, are responsible for the behavior and actions of our child. Failure to adhere to these commitments can cause my child to lose various KIPP privileges and can lead to my child's expulsion from KIPP.
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STUDENT'S COMMITMENT: I fully commit to KIPP in the following ways: I will arrive at KIPP every day by 7:25 A.M. (Mon. ‐ Fri.) I will remain at KIPP until 5:00 P.M. (Mon. ‐ Thurs.) I will come to KIPP on appropriate Saturdays at 9:00 A.M. and remain until 1:00 P.M. I will attend KIPP during summer school July 13th – 31st I will always work, think, and behave in the best way I know how and I will do whatever it takes for me and my fellow students to learn. This also means that I will complete all my homework every night, I will call my teachers if I have a problem with the homework or a problem with coming to school, and I will raise my hand and ask questions in class if I do not understand something. I will always make myself available to parents, teachers, and any concerns they might have. I will always behave so as to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom. This also means that I will always listen to all my KIPP teammates and give everyone my respect. I will follow the KIPP dress code. I will come to school everyday with all the materials I need for success. I am responsible for my own behavior. Failure to adhere to these commitments can cause me to lose various KIPP privileges and can lead to my expulsion from KIPP.
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SOME OF WHAT EVERY KIPPSTER LEARNS DURING WEEK ONE… We are committed to reinforcing common standards of character and academic performance to create a sense of team and family. We believe that these ideas serve as a great foundation to be carried beyond the four years at KIPP Academy. During the first week of summer school every KIPPster learns various songs, sayings and acronyms to reinforce our mission. We constantly refer to these throughout their time at KIPP. Please review with your child and help reinforce these standards in and out of school.
I ‐ Be Nice, Work Hard!!!
II‐ We are a TEAM AND A FAMILY!!!
III ‐ “This is the room that has the kids who want to learn to read more books to build a better tomorrow.”
IV‐ There are no shortcuts!!!
V ‐ SSLANT (Smile, Sit Up, Listen, Ask and Answer Questions, Nod your head, Track the Speaker)
VI ‐ PETSY’s (PLEASE, EXCUSE ME, THANK YOU, SORRY, YOU’RE WELCOME)
READ, BABY READ (written by Harriett Ball) You’ve gotta read, baby read! You’ve gotta read, baby read! The more you read, the more you know, Knowledge is power, power is freedom And I want it! You’ve gotta read, baby read! You’ve gotta read, baby read! No need to hope for a good paying job, With your first grade skills, you’ll do nothing but rob. You’ve gotta read, baby read! You’ve gotta read, baby read! You’ll rob your mama You’ll rob your friends, Don’t you know can learn, Don’t you know you can win! You’ve gotta read, baby read! You’ve gotta read, baby read! 1, 2, 3 SLANT, SEPIM Please do, Thank you, Say it, Do it, Boom!
NON‐NEGOTIABLE EXPECTATIONS FOR KIPP ACADEMY STUDENTS All KIPPsters receive general non‐negotiable expectations. Please reinforce these with your child.
1) Adherence to the KIPP Commitment to Excellence
2) Adherence to the KIPP Credo: • If there is a problem, we look for a solution. • If there is a better way, we try to find it. • If we need help, we ask. • If a teammate needs help, we give.
3) KIPP Shirts remain tucked in at all times. 4) Be on‐task and present at all times during class. While anyone is speaking, students must track the speaker. This means that students will always have their eyes and brains on that person. Students should be sitting properly during class time. a. 5) Be organized and prepared for all classes. Every KIPPster should have everyday at least 2 sharpened pencils with erasers, a pen, and paper in their notebooks. Work should always be completed and presented neatly. The KIPP heading should be used when appropriate. All papers should be kept neatly in binders. 6) KIPPsters must complete HW daily to the best of their abilities. Homework should be written neatly in the agenda provided by the school.
7) Students must have an independent reading book with them at all times to assign themselves when they are done early or have additional time. 8) Respond appropriately to all questions. Tone, reactions and non‐verbal actions matter. 9) Walk quietly and orderly while inside any building. 10) We must maintain integrity by doing the right thing without being told. KIPPsters are KIPPsters in and out of school. Our actions once we leave the building matter just as much as they do inside of the school building.
KIPP ACADEMY STAFF PHONE LIST STAFF MEMBER Uriel Barrera‐Vasquez 5th/6th Grade Social Studies
Kate Baughman Reading Specialist
Sarah Baumann 5th Grade English
Mitch Brenner Assistant Principal/8th Grade History Teacher
Yazmin Chavira
5th Grade Thinking Skills/Math Intervention
Frank Corcoran
7th/8th Grade Math & 8th Grade English
Sarah Gagle
6th Grade English/Writing
Annie Givler
5th – 8th Grade Music
Alaina Harper
Grade Level Chair ‐5th/6th Grade Science
Matt Hureau
5th Grade Math
McClenty Hunter
5th – 8th Grade Music
Itzel Inniss Social Worker
Kevin Jones
7th /8th Grade Social Studies
David Levin Co‐Founder and Superintendent
Martha Marin Office Assistant
Jane Martínez Dowling Executive Director of KIPP Through College
Cecilia Miranda Office Manager Aneudy Morales Counselor
David Nieder
6th Grade Math
Laura Reyes
7th/8th Grade Math
Blanca Ruiz Principal
Tenille Sadat
7th Grade English/ 8th Grade Writing
Telephone Number 917‐554‐1617 917‐617‐6014 646‐522‐8057 646‐319‐0454 646‐713‐7172 917‐376‐2600 646‐246‐3239 718‐764‐7866 202‐905‐3610 646‐354‐9865 443‐538‐7172 917‐686‐5692 917‐689‐2355 917‐806‐0673 347‐658‐8801 917‐885‐1531 347‐200‐8176 914‐646‐7408 347‐880‐0763 646‐316‐6821 917‐548‐3793 646‐462‐6106
Email Address
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Denise Scipio Social Worker
Nick Sedey School Operations Manager
Maria Soto
7th/8th Grade Writing
Katie Sparkes
5th/7th Grade Writing
Jasper Steenhuis
7th/8th Grade Science
Quinton Vance Executive Director of KIPPNYC Middle and Elementary Schools
Natalie Webb KIPPNYC College Prep High School Principal
Cathy Lankenau‐Weeks Reading Specialist
Davina Wu
5th – 8th Grade Music
646‐229‐0442 914‐552‐6943 646‐234‐9176 484‐919‐3514 646‐515‐2596 917‐721‐5809
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
571‐214‐8277 917‐612‐8975 646‐425‐5493
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
GENERAL INFORMATION ENROLLMENT Every year, beginning in the first week of January, KIPP Academy will begin accepting applications for our fifth – eighth grades for the following year. Admissions preference will be granted to siblings, students receiving free or reduced lunch students living in District 7 as a 2nd priority. The lottery will be held the first week of April.
DOCUMENTS NEEDED BY THE SCHOOL Upon enrolling at KIPP Academy, the following documents must be submitted for each student to Ms. Miranda, Office Manager: Registration Form Emergency Form (given two times a year – update if you move) Lunch Forms Copy of Birth Certificate Proof of Address (Copy of a Phone Bill, Electric Bill, Lease, Gas Bill, etc) Immunization Records/Health Records IEP (individualized Educational Plan)/504 Accommodations (if applicable) Home Language Survey (if applicable)
WHO SHOULD I ASK? At times, you may have questions about KIPP Academy. Below is a quick list of common concerns and to whom you can ask for more information. CONCERN Lunch Forms, Emergency Forms, Immunization Records, etc I don’t understand the paycheck comment. Lost bus pass Ordering KIPP shirt I have concerns about my child’s social adjustment My child has an IEP/504 Accommodations My child will be absent or late I have concerns about my child’s paycheck average and PACT I have overall concerns
STAFF MEMBER Ms. Miranda Teacher whose initials are on the paycheck Mr. Sedey Ms. Marin Ms. Scipio/Ms. Inniss/Mr. Morales Ms. Baughman Ms. Miranda Mr. Brenner (Assistant Principal) Ms. Ruiz (Principal)
ATTENDANCE Attendance is extremely important at KIPP Academy. We encourage students and families to arrive to school on time. As the old saying goes, “If you’re five minutes early you’re late.” ☺ KIPP Academy students arrive at 7:25 a.m. Monday – Friday, and remain at school until 5:00 p.m. (3:30 on Friday). On appropriate Saturdays, school will begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 1:00 p.m. If your child is going to miss school because of an illness, please call Ms. Miranda as soon as possible. All absences should be followed up the next day with a note signed by a parent, guardian or doctor. KIPP staff will call to verify all absences. If your child is running late or will miss a portion of the day due to a doctor’s appointment please call Ms. Miranda. (Please try to arrange doctor’s appointment outside of the school schedule or during the later part of the day. Please speak to Ms. Ruiz if there are any concerns). Students who arrive late must sign the late book, and must indicate time of arrival as well as the reason. If your child is absent, Ms. Miranda will follow up with a phone call. All absences and latenesses are noted on the paycheck and report cards. Students are responsible for all missed assignments and must arrange a way to complete all missed assignments and homework. Since missing class affects academic achievement, repeated absences may be reflected in the student’s grades. If a student is repeatedly absent, Ms. Ruiz, teacher(s), student and parent/guardian will meet to address the issue. In addition, students who have 10 or more unexcused absences (3 lates equal one absence) run the risk of missing the end‐of‐year field lesson and/or promotion to the next grade.
FOOD SERVICES All families must fill out a federal free/reduced lunch form in September. Families that qualify will receive a free/reduced pricing for lunch. The full price for lunch is $1.50 and is subject to change as New York City Department of Education policies change. Breakfast is optional and will take place from 7:00 – 7:25 a.m., Monday – Friday. It is suggested that your child not arrive later than 7:15 a.m. if they want to receive breakfast in the morning. Families may also choose to send a bag lunch. However, the school is unable to assume responsibility for refrigerating or warming lunch brought from home. Please inform the school if your child has any food allergies. On Monday‐Thursday, snacks will be provided in the afternoon.
TRANSPORTATION Students living more than ½ mile in distance from the school, but less than 1 mile, will receive a Reduced‐fare Metro Card for public transportation. Students living greater than 1 mile from the school will receive a Full‐fare Metro Card for public transportation. It is each student’s responsibility to hold onto the Metro Card. Students will receive a transportation pass the Friday prior to Saturday school. Parents are expected to pick up or make special arrangements for students remaining after school for detention, tutoring, or special activities.
Parents must provide contact information for any person authorized to pick up their child. If the person picking up child is not the parent/legal guardian of the child, they must be a) given explicit written permission to pick up the child and b) be 18 years or older. Please speak to Ms. Ruiz if there are any concerns.
FIELD TRIPS Our students and families look forward to various opportunities, especially our field trips. Each year, KIPP teachers plan several field trips that complement the curriculum, including travels to the local museums and parks, walks over the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, Colombia University basketball games, ice skating, the Bronx Zoo amongst other New York City sites. In addition, many KIPPsters work hard to earn an out‐of‐state field trip at the end of the year, to DC (5th), Utah (6th), Boston (7th), and California (8th). Students earn these trips based on their paycheck average, attendance, and academics. In addition, the school reserves the right to remove a student from a trip or prohibit them from going for any reason that jeopardizes the physical or emotional well being of themselves or others. The school will discuss with families in more detail as trip season approaches.
COMMUNICATING WITH STAFF AND TEACHERS Part of the success of KIPP Academy is the open communication between parents, students, and teachers. In an effort to help with this, we give all telephone numbers of KIPP Academy staff. Students and parents should feel free to call staff members for any reason. This is also a good chance to get help, if necessary, with homework. If you or your child is trying to call a teacher but they don’t answer, please leave a message explaining the reason for the call, your full name and telephone number and allow time to return your call. In addition, in the event of an emergency, please feel free to call Ms. Ruiz, or any of the Social Workers and Counselors on staff.
CELL PHONE USAGE We understand many of you have purchased cell phones for your children to be used in case of emergencies, or just simply as a means to communicate with your child after school. However, it is not permitted for cell phones to be used during school hours. Cell phones must be turned off before students enter the school and phones must remain off. If this rule is not followed, we will confiscate the phone, and hold it until a parent/guardian comes to the school to pick it up. Please know, if the phone is confiscated on more than one occasion, the school reserves the right to not allow your child to bring a cell phone to school at all. Please be advised that KIPP is not responsible for lost or damaged cellular phones. If you need a message relayed to your child please call the school directly or a KIPP Academy staff member.
TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNET USE In order to maintain appropriate use of our technology equipment at school, we ask all students to refrain from the following: Using computers without staff supervision or permission. Downloading software, plug‐ins, games or other programs without permission. Using chat rooms, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, or other personal social networking websites. Changing Windows desktop, taskbar, screensaver, or any other computer settings. Accessing anyone else's data folders, files or documents. Sending email or IM unless specified by a staff member. Eating or drinking near a computer. Leaving a laptop anywhere else but in mobile lab when done with it. Playing non‐education games on a KIPP computer. Students in violation of any of the above may be subject to disciplinary action.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS Students should ensure that any personal belongings they bring with them to school are appropriate for school and do not pose any type of physical or emotional risk to themselves or others. In addition, students are not permitted to bring gum, candy, toys of any kind to school without prior permission. All toys, cards, games and electronics not specifically authorized by the Principal, Ms. Ruiz, will be confiscated and returned only to parents and guardians. Finally, please note that the school is not responsible for any personal belongings brought to school.
ORDERING T‐SHIRTS Part of the KIPP Academy uniform is that all students must wear a KIPP shirt. Please use the Shirt Order Form to purchase any KIPP shirts that you would like. Once shirts have been ordered and money has been submitted, your child will receive the order within 24 hours. Please see Ms. Marin for order forms. Please see the student dress code policy, below, for additional information.
STUDENT DRESS CODE POLICY 1.
Students are to wear a KIPP shirt every day, Monday through Thursday. Their KIPP shirts must be fully visible at all times within the building. There are KIPP long‐sleeve shirts and sweatshirts available for colder weather.
2.
All KIPP shirts and button‐down shirts (on professional dress days) are to be tucked in and worn appropriately.
3.
On Monday through Thursday, students may not wear overalls, jumpers, or any other article of clothing that covers their KIPP shirt.
4.
All pants must fit around the waist. Boys must wear a belt every day. (Belts should be of appropriate size and nature (ie: no large‐faced images or symbols which may pose as a distraction).
5.
Pants and jeans may not be excessively baggy and may not cover the shoes.
6.
Students may not wear jogging pants or sweat pants.
7.
Students may not wear sleeveless or cut‐off shirts, blouses, or dresses.
8.
Students may not wear shorts, capris or skorts (except in the month of July).
9.
Students may not wear inappropriately tight or short shirts, pants, shorts, skirts, or capris.
10. Girls may not wear skirts that are inappropriately short (more than 3 inches above the center of their knee) or that have inappropriately long slits (above their knees). Girls are encouraged to avoid wearing dresses or skirts that “ride up.” They have the option of wearing a slip underneath dresses or skirts.
11. On Fridays (except during summer school), all students must wear professional dress clothing. For boys this includes dress pants, a dress shirt with tie, and dress shoes (no sneakers or unprofessional boots). For girls, this includes a dress, a dress shirt with a skirt, or a dress shirt with dress pants (no denim) and dress shoes (no sneakers or unprofessional boots). Dress shirts should not have any type of printed words or pictures. (If weather is extreme, students should bring a change of shoes).
12. Students may not wear hats, caps, do‐rags, or other head coverings in the school (except in the case of religious observance).
13. For safety reasons the following jewelry will not be permitted at KIPP: necklaces, chains, chokers, multiple finger rings, and dangle earrings. Earrings should not hang from the earlobe (i.e. studs are permitted). Boys are not permitted to wear earrings at anytime. Students are permitted one bracelet and one ring to be worn in school. Necklaces of religious nature may be worn but must remain tucked in at all times.
14. Students may not pierce any body part other than their ears. Males must remove earrings in the building.
15. Students may not wear make up, contacts and hair with color or multiple colors. (Students may use lip balm, such as Vaseline, Chapstick, etc. to moisturize lips. As with any items, these may be taken away for inappropriate and excessive use).
16. Students may not wear artificial nails. No type of nail coloring may be worn (including clear).
17. Students cannot wear shoes that show their toes or heels.
18. BIRTHDAYS: If your child’s birthday lands on a school day, s/he is allowed to wear professional attire rather than a KIPP shirt. The birthday child may not wear jeans or t‐shirts, professional dress attire only. Students are not mandated to dress in professional attire on their birthday, but they have the option to do so. ************************************************ In addition to the above uniform regulations, the following rules apply: a) Expensive jewelry or large sums of money should not be brought to school. If it is necessary for students to carry more than $20, the money should be given to a teacher for safekeeping. b) The following items may not be brought to school: beepers, cellular phones, Ipods, Discmans, or radios of any kind, and electronic toys (PSP’s, Gameboys, etc). c) Candy and soda may only be eaten at lunch time, and gum may not be chewed in school at all.
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HEALTH AND SAFETY IMMUNIZATIONS New York State law requires that all children entering elementary school be immunized against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, 2 Hepatitis A, 3 Hepatitis B, and Varicella.
Before a child can be permitted to enter and attend school (subject to the 14‐day initial waiver requirement), parents or guardians must present documentation that their child has received all required doses of vaccines or that their child has received at least one dose of each of the required vaccines and is waiting to receive the subsequent doses at the appropriate time intervals. KIPP Academy must receive a certificate of immunization no later than September 19, 2009. These requirements can be waived only if a properly signed health or religious exemption is filed with the school.
REPORTING A CHILD’S SICKNESS If your child is going to miss school because of illness, please call the school as soon as possible. All student absences should be followed up the next day with a note signed by a parent, guardian or doctor. KIPP staff will call to verify all student absences. Please let Ms. Ruiz know if there are any medical concerns or special circumstances of which we should be aware.
ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL HOURS If a child becomes ill or injured during the school day and is not well enough to stay in class, the parent/guardian will be called to pick the child up. It is necessary to have updated emergency contact numbers on file in the school office in case no one can be contacted at home. If the person picking up child is not the parent/legal guardian of the child, they must be a) given explicit written permission to pick up the child and b) be 18 years or older.
MEDICATION Staff at the school is NOT authorized to administer medication. If a child needs to take medicine at school, he/she must give Ms. Miranda a written note from a doctor or parent with exact dosage and times for student to take medicine him/herself in the presence of school staff. Medicine needs to be in its original packaging/case. If there are any concerns about medicine, allergies and overall health please let Ms. Ruiz know.
Students with asthma should bring an inhaler prescribed by their doctor to school each day. Asthmatic students should notify a KIPP staff member as soon as breathing becomes difficult.
COUNSELING SERVICES The Social Workers and Counselors at KIPP Academy are available to help any student or parent address any social, emotional, or academic issue they may be facing. In addition, our social workers/counselors help students work through and cope with personal and school related stress. At KIPP every student is entitled to counseling support and referral services. Counseling support is also extended to KIPP families in need.
There are several ways in which students may be referred for counseling services: • If a parent is interested in having their child seen by one of our Social Workers please contact the (social worker on staff and/or the principal) • Students are able to ask directly to speak with one of the social workers on staff • A student may also be referred at the recommendation of a teacher, social worker or principal Please understand that we are required to respect the rights and privacy of our students and families and as a result all information and counseling services are confidential and cannot be shared (except in instances required by law).
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CALENDAR AND SCHEDULE START/END DATES Summer School will begin for all students on July 13th and end on July 31st. This year, school will resume for students on Tuesday, September 1, 2008. The last day for students will be Tuesday, June 22nd, 2009.
VACATIONS/HOLIDAYS With a few exceptions, KIPP Academy will follow the same holiday schedule as the New York City Department of Education (see calendar for full details).
SCHOOL CLOSINGS (BAD WEATHER) If the NYC public schools close due to bad weather, KIPP Academy is closed. Listen to the radio (e.g. 1010 WINS news) or television for the announcement closings/delays of NYC Public Schools. Or, check the Department of Education website (http://schools.nyc.gov). Once the school day has started, school will not be cancelled early due to weather conditions. Parents should feel free to pick their children up early in the case of serious weather conditions.
SUMMER SCHOOL Summer school is a critical time to get a head start on the coming school year and as a result all students at KIPP Academy must attend school during the summer. Summer school is three weeks long from 8:00 – 2:00. Please note that unexcused absences in the summer may result in a child being unable to attend one of the school’s annual fall field trips.
SATURDAY SCHOOL On appropriate Saturdays, all KIPP Academy students are expected to attend Saturday school from 9:00‐ 1:00PM. Unless otherwise specified, students must continue to follow the standard KIPP Academy dress code on Saturdays. During this time, students will participate in orchestra, among other enrichment and academic activities. Lunch will be provided.
EXTRA‐CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES All KIPP Academy students participate in various extra‐curricular activities. 5th graders rotate between knitting, art, technology, reader’s theater, gym and study hall. As an extension of the music class, 6th – 8th graders participate in the orchestra during which time they develop additional skills and are prepared for performance opportunities both inside and outside of the school.
VOLUNTARY AFTER‐SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Some students may elect to remain after‐school (after 5:00pm) to participate in sports, after‐school clubs, tutoring or Homework (HW) club. Homework (HW) Club provides a quiet area with a staff member for students to complete Homework (HW) in a concentrated and controlled environment. Students can only remain at school until 6:00pm with explicit permission from parents. These after‐ school activities begin in September.
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SCHOOL SCHEDULE
Starting in September, all students will start school at 7:25am and will remain until classes are dismissed at 5pm, Monday through Thursday and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. Friday dismissal will be at 3:30PM.
Below is a sample of your child’s daily schedule. SAMPLE OF A KIPPSTER’S DAILY SCHEDULE 7:00 AM ‐ 7:25 AM (Breakfast) 7:30 AM ‐ 8:00 AM (Thinking Skills) Students work independently and cooperatively on math, reading, logic, and critical thinking skills through a variety of problem‐solving activities. 8:00 AM ‐ 3:15 or 3:30 PM (Core Academic Subjects) Students are engaged in the standard curriculum areas of reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. During this time, students will also have a lunch period. 3:30 PM ‐ 3:45 PM Snacks 3:45 PM ‐ 5:00 PM (Orchestra Practice / Enrichment Activities) All KIPP 5th graders attend an enrichment class which includes visual arts/performing arts, group games, chess, counseling, individualized tutoring from a teacher or older student, or a study hall. 6th through 8th graders will have the opportunity to choose between the KIPP String and Rhythm orchestra as well as classes in more visual/performing arts and/or sports based enrichment classes such as drama, dance, community service, step team, football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer. After 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Homework / Extra Tutoring / Sports) Students may stay after school for homework help, extra tutoring and sports activities from 5:00 through 6:00 pm Monday through Thursday.
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KIPP ACADEMY CALENDAR 2009 – 2010 NOTE: Each month you will get a monthly update of the calendar. Please refer to these notices for any possible changes.
JULY July 9th July 13th July 14th July 17th July 31st
New Family Orientation (5:00 – 6:00PM) Summer School (8:00AM‐ 2:00PM) Make‐up Date for New Family Orientation (9AM‐ 10AM) T‐shirt ceremony (Auditorium, 1:00 ‐ 2:00) Last Day of Summer School
SUMMER VACATION SEPTEMBER September 1st September 4th September 7th September 9th September 12th September 15th September 16th September 25th September 28th
First Day of School for Students (3:30PM Dismissal) No School for Staff and Students Labor Day (SCHOOL CLOSED) Potluck for 5th/6th Grade (5:15 pm‐6:30pm) Saturday School Potluck for 7th/8th Grade (5:15pm‐6:30pm) 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS (Staff Professional Development) SCHOOL CLOSED (Staff Professional Development) Yom Kippur (SCHOOL CLOSED)
OCTOBER October 2nd 1st Quarter Progress Reports Distributed Movies with a Message (6th grade) rd October 3 Saturday School October 6th 12:00 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS October 12th Columbus Day (SCHOOL CLOSED) October 17th Saturday School st October 21 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS (Staff Professional Development) October 30th – 31st Camp Ramapo (5th grade)
NOVEMBER November 5th November 6th November 7th November 10th November 11th November 12th November 14th November 186h ‐ 17th November 17th November 23rd‐27th November 30th
1st Quarter Ends KIPP NYC DAY (SCHOOL CLOSED) Saturday School (?) Report Card Night (4:00pm‐7:00pm) Veteran’s Day (SCHOOL OPEN) Report Card Night (3:45pm‐ 5:00pm) Awards Assembly (3:45pm‐5:00pm) Saturday School 5th Grade SS NY State Test 12:00 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS THANKSGIVING RECESS (SCHOOL CLOSED) Return back to school from break
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DECEMBER December 5th December 8th December 11th December 12th December 16th December 18th December 19th December 22nd December 23rd December 24th‐Jan 1st
5th Grade Play Practice 12:00 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS Movies with a Message Breakfast and Books (5th Grade) 5th Grade Play Practice 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS (Staff Professional Development) 2nd Quarter Progress Reports Distributed 5th Grade Play Practice 5th grade Winter Show (6:00 start) Students dismiss at 2:00PM WINTER RECESS (SCHOOL CLOSED)
JANUARY January 4th January 9th January 18th January 27th January 29th January 30th
Return back to school from break Lottery registration starts Saturday School MLK Day (SCHOOL CLOSED) 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS (Staff Professional Development) 2nd Quarter Ends Saturday School
February 2nd February 3rd February 4th February 6th February 9th February 15th ‐19th February 22nd February 24th February 27th
Report Card Night (4:00pm‐7:00pm) Report Card Night (3:45pm‐5:00pm) Awards Assembly (3:45pm‐5:00pm) Saturday School 6th Grade Saturday School 12:00 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS MID‐WINTER BREAK (SCHOOL CLOSED) Return back to school from break 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS (Staff Professional Development) Saturday School Breakfast and Books (5th grade)
FEBRUARY
MARCH March 6th March 12th March 13th March 17th March 19th March 20th March 29th‐April 6th
Orchestra Rehearsal 3rd Quarter Progress Reports Distributed Orchestra Rehearsal 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS (Staff Professional Development) SCHOOL CLOSED (Staff Professional Development) Orchestra Rehearsal SPRING RECESS (SCHOOL CLOSED)
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APRIL April 7th April 15th April 16th April 17th April 20th April 21st April 22nd April 26th April 27th April 28th
Return back to school from break KIPP Academy Lottery End of 3rd Quarter Saturday School Report Card Night (4:00‐7:00pm) Report Card Night (3:45‐5:00pm) Awards Assembly (3:45‐5:00pm) 5th‐8th Grade English Language Art Test 12:00 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS (Staff Professional Development)
MAY THE FOLLOWING TRIP DATES ARE TENTATIVE!!! WE WILL UPDATE TRIP DATES AS SOON AS WE FINALIZE ARRANGEMENTS May 5th‐7th 5th‐8th Grade NYC Math Test th th May 10 ‐15 8th grade California trip th May 14 4th Quarter Progress Reports th nd May 17 ‐22 7th Grade Boston Trip th th May 24 – May 28 6th Grade Utah Trip th rd May 25 –June 3 8th Grade NYS science Performance Exam st May 31 Memorial Day (SCHOOL CLOSED) JUNE June 1st – 4th June 5th June 7th ‐11th June 7th‐11th June 12th June 14rd‐15th June 16th June 17th June 18th June 19th June 21st – 22nd June 22nd
3:30 Dismissal for students Orchestra Rehearsal 8th Grade Science Writing Test 5th grade D.C. trip Orchestra Rehearsal (?) NY State SS Exam (8th grade) 4th Quarter Awards Ceremony (3:45 – 5:00) Spring Concert (6:00PM) Prom (8th grade only ‐ Hostos 6:00 – 9:00) Advancement Ceremony (Auditorium ‐ 10:00AM) 3:30 Dismissal for students Last day of School (3:30 dismissal for students)
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A QUICK GLANCE…
A) DATES FOR 2:45 DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS September 16th October 21st December 16th January 27th February 24th March 17th April 28th
B) HALF DAYS (12:00 DISMISSAL) October 6th November 17th December 8th February 9th April 27th
C) Finalized Testing Dates NYSESLAT ‐ New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test‐ Speaking portion (4/12‐5/14) NYSESLAT – Reading, Writing, Listening portion – (5/3‐5/14) MS SCIENCE: 8th grade performance (5/25‐6/3), 8th grade written (6/7—6/11) MS SOCIAL STUDIES: 5th grade (11/18‐11/17), 8th grade (6/14‐6/15) STATE MATH/ELA – 5th ‐8th Grade Math(5/5‐5/7) and ELA (4/26‐4/28)
D) Student and Staff Holidays Labor Day Yom Kippur Columbus Day Thanksgiving Recess Winter Recess MLK Day Mid‐Winter Break Good Friday Spring Recess Memorial Day
September 7 September 28 October 12 November 23‐27 December 24–January 1 January 18 February 15‐19 April 2 March 29—April 6 May 31
E) SCHOOL CLOSED FOR STUDENTS ONLY (STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAYS) September 25th November 6th March 19th
F) Special Events KIPP NYC Open House
November 11 (Veteran’s Day)
G) Board of Trustees
KIPP Academy board meetings are open to the public and will be held on October 26, January 11, March 15, and June 14 in 2009‐10. For times and location, please call the school.
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ACADEMICS ‐ “WORK HARD”
HOMEWORK A key part of the academic program of KIPP Academy is the homework that every KIPPster will receive every night. Homework must be completed at night before it is due. Students will not be allowed to complete homework during breakfast unless given explicit permission by their teacher. No student is excused from any assignment without the permission of his or her teacher prior to the due date. If a student discovers that s/he will be unable to complete an assignment, s/he must contact the teacher by phone no later than the night before it is due. If the student is unable to contact their teacher for some reason, they must bring a written note from their parents/guardians.
KEY HW POINTS There are many points we review with students. Below are constant messages we send to our KIPPsters as we reinforce the importance of homework. Please review with your child and continue to reinforce accurate, thorough and timely completion of homework. As always students can call teachers with homework questions. D Because we are committed to our mission of preparing our students for high school, college and the world beyond, we strongly emphasize the accurate and thorough completion of homework. HW helps students develop grit, self‐control, desire, discipline and dedication – all of which are important tools for success. D HW Comments are logged on the weekly paychecks. Paychecks, a weekly log of student behavioral and academic performance, will be further explained in the next section. D Students have until the next day to make up homework assignments. D Students can earn points on paychecks based on excellent completion of homework. D Students can lose points on paychecks if homework is incomplete, poor or undone. (see paycheck section for the amount deducted from paychecks). D Students may receive a zero on paychecks for undone homework (see paycheck section for explanation) D If a student misses homework on Friday, there is no opportunity to make it up, and the student will receive a zero on his/her paycheck. So please ensure that your child completes homework thoroughly each and every night. D Incomplete homework assignments or assignments the student cannot find at the moment the assignment is asked for by the teacher will all be considered incomplete, and students will not receive credit for them. A loss of paycheck dollars will result.
A. MAKE‐UP WORK ON DAYS STUDENT IS ABSENT Students who are absent are expected to call individual teachers to find out their assignments and make up the homework when they return to school. All missed, incomplete or incorrect work must be completed. It is the student’s responsibility to check with each of his/her teachers to make sure s/he is aware of all assignments. The time generally allowed to complete this work will be the number of days the student was absent. For example, if a student was absent for one day, then s/he will have one day to make up any missed work.
Late, incomplete, or missing assignments (for unexcused reasons other than absences) must be made up by the next day.
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B. PARENT SIGNATURE ON TESTS/PAYCHECK Parents must sign all tests and graded assignments, which includes weekly paychecks. Every Monday students receive their paychecks, Math tests and English tests. Students must return tests signed by the next day. Unsigned tests and paychecks will be noted on the paycheck. CHEATING/PLAGIARISM Cheating is a serious offense. If a student copies another student’s work or if a student gives another student his/her work, it is considered cheating (Academic Dishonesty), and the student will not receive higher than an S on their conduct grade on that quarter’s report card. Students will receive a zero on their paycheck and must attend PACT immediately. Plagiarism involves the stealing of someone else’s ideas or words as one’s own or the imitation of the language, ideas, and thoughts of another author (or person) and then passing them off as their own original work. If a student plagiarized and forges a signature, this is also considered Academic Dishonesty. Students will receive a zero on their paycheck and must attend PACT immediately. Any student who earns an Academic Dishonesty will not receive higher than an S on their conduct grade.
REPORT CARDS AND GRADING Report cards will be issued four times per year. Progress reports will be provided to parents at the mid‐ point of each quarter to update them on their child’s academic progress. Progress reports provide a picture of a student’s academic performance based on assignments and assessments administered in a given period. The grading system for report cards is as follows: ACADEMIC GRADE SCALE CONDUCT GRADE SCALE 90 – 99 = A 80 – 89 = B 70 – 79 = C Below 70 = Failing
E = Excellent G = Good S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement U = Unsatisfactory
METHODS OF ASSESSING FOR ACADEMIC GRADES Below are possible assessments that are used to measure academic progress. • • • • • • • •
Exams (weekly tests/quizzes, unit tests) Written Responses Extended Responses (Labs, Essays) Oral Presentations (oral reports, speeches) Group Work/Projects Class work Homework Informal Observations (reflected in some form of documentation by teacher)
• • • • • • • •
Portfolios Student Self‐Assessment Peer Reviews Conferencing Journals/Learning Logs Meeting Reading Goals Student‐Self Assessing Formal Observation (using criteria list)
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PROMOTION TO THE NEXT GRADE
Students may be retained in their grade at the end of the year for any one of, or combination of, the following factors: • Failure to meet academic standards of readiness for the next grade: Students who fail (earn below 70%) a core subject (Reading, Writing, Math, Social Studies, Science) may be retained. Students who fail either the reading or math standardized test at the end of the year may be retained as well. • Failure to meet adequate standards of attendance and lateness: Students who miss more than 10 days of school times may be retained. Please note that every 3 days late counts as one day absent) • Failure to meet behavioral standards of readiness for the next grade level: Students whose behavior has not shown adequate growth or improvement, or is not at a sufficient level, may be retained.
STANDARDIZED TESTING KIPP Academy administers the New York State 5th Grade Social Studies Exam (Nov.), English/Language Arts Exam(May), Math Exam (May), 8th Grade Science Exam (May) and Social Studies Exam (June), 8th Grade Earth Science Regents (June) and 8th Grade Math Regents Exams (June). These exams give teachers information about students so that they can effectively design instruction to meet particular student needs, and clearly demonstrate the academic achievement of students. Once a year, the school will publish the school‐wide results of these tests.
STUDENT ORGANIZATION AND SUPPLIES Organizational skills are taught to students in each of their academic classes. Students are given an agenda at the beginning of the school year to track their homework. When a student is absent, he or she will be able to get back on track as quickly as possible and begin making up missed work. Please check your child’s agenda and sign off on completed homework assignments to ensure that s/he has successfully completed all assignments.
SPECIAL EDUCATION For students who have Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 Accommodations, staff will provide the support to meet every student’s needs. Such services may include the following: • Testing modifications such as extended time, separate location, and/or questions read aloud • Counseling • Speech therapy • Occupational therapy • Physical therapy and/or accommodations • Any other related special education services mandated by an IEP or 504 Accommodations In the event that KIPP Academy cannot provide the necessary support for a student, external agencies and resources will be referred for a student either on‐site or at another facility. Ms. Baughman will follow up and monitor any off‐site services that are provided for any students. If your child has an IEP or 504, please make sure that Ms. Baughman and the school has the most recent copy. Should you have any questions regarding special education or the referral process please contact Ms. Baughman.
KIPP PAYCHECK SYSTEM “Good things happen when you do the right things. Bad things happen when you do the wrong things.” Each week your child will receive a KIPP paycheck. This paycheck is used to give you a weekly idea of your child’s social and academic performance. The front of the paycheck includes a space for teacher comments. The back of the paycheck includes an explanation of the comments each teacher may make. All paychecks should be signed on the top right corner near the score. • Every Monday the previous week’s paycheck will be sent home with your child. • Please review the paycheck with your child each Monday then return the signed paycheck to school with your child on Tuesday. • Your child should try to maintain a paycheck average that is higher than 35 KIPP Dollars. PAYCHECK DOLLAR AMOUNT WHAT THE SCORE REFLECTS 35‐38 KIPP dollars an average week of school 39‐44 KIPP dollars a good week of school 45‐49 KIPP dollars an excellent week of school 50+ KIPP dollars a tremendous week of school
IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT PAYCHECKS Teachers will write comments – good and bad – on each student’s paycheck. Teachers will calculate the weekly paycheck amounts at the end of the day on Friday. Students will receive paychecks on Monday and take them home, to be signed by a parent or guardian and returned to school on Tuesday. The following page shows the front and back of each paycheck. • If your child does not complete all of their homework during the week they will receive a 0 on their paycheck for the week. It is very important that your child complete all of their homework on a daily basis. Any missed homework must be made up by the next day. If there is a problem with completing a homework assignment, your child should contact his or her teacher directly prior to the time the homework is due. • During Saturday School we serve a special lunch for all of the students who have completed all of their homework during the week. Students who receive a 0 on their paycheck will not receive this special lunch. They will however, receive a meal. • Students will receive positive and negative comments from their teachers each day. Positive comments add points to the paycheck and negative points take points away. Below you will see a chart with the comments that you will find on your child’s paycheck. These comments will be followed by the initials of the teachers who wrote them. If you have specific questions about the comments on the paycheck please feel free to contact the teachers directly. • Students have the opportunity to earn GANAS (going above and beyond) in two ways: o By earning 3 or more points in a specific category (Homework, Class work or Teamwork) or; o Being awarded it by individual teachers if students have taken the independent initiative to produce stellar work or taken the extra step (this at individual teacher’s discretion)
PAYCHECK DEFINITIONS AND VALUES ‐ 5th and 6th GRADE Category
Attendance Homework
Classwork
Teamwork
Comment L Absent *HW NO HW checked off INC HW checked off No HW INC HW Poor HW *P *W UP T OT *A *TM C NA H RR Caf DC
Meaning Late Absent Good Homework Made up missing homework Incomplete Homework Made up Missing Homework Incomplete Homework Poor Homework Good Participation Good Work Unprepared Talking Off task Good Attitude Good Teammate Eating candy/ gum Negative Attitude Negative Behavior in hallway Negative Behavior in restroom Negative behavior in cafeteria Not following dress code
Value ‐1 ‐2 +1 ‐4 ‐2 Automatic 0 on entire check ‐4 ‐1 +1 +1 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1 +1 +2 ‐1 ‐2 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1
PAYCHECK DEFINITIONS AND VALUES ‐ 7th and 8th GRADE Category
Attendance Homework
Classwork
Teamwork
NOTE:
Comment L Absent *HW NO HW checked off INC HW checked off No HW INC HW Poor HW *P *W UP T OT *TM *A C NA H RR Caf DC
Meaning Late Absent Good Homework Made up missing homework Incomplete Homework Made up Missing Homework Incomplete Homework Poor Homework Good Participation Good Work Unprepared Talking Off task Good Teammate Good Attitude Eating candy/ gum Negative Attitude Negative Behavior in hallway Negative Behavior in restroom Negative behavior in cafeteria Not following dress code
Value ‐1 ‐2 +1 ‐4 ‐2 Automatic 0 on entire check ‐4 ‐1 +1 +1 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1 +1 +1 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1 ‐1
GANAS (Going above and beyond) can be earned by receiving 3 extra points in any category. Academic Dishonesty gives a student an automatic 0. All comments carry teacher’s initials.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PAYCHECKS
When will I receive my child’s paychecks? Students receive paychecks on Mondays. You must sign paychecks and students should return signed paychecks to their TS/Math teachers. Unsigned paychecks are counted as a missing HW and will receive a 4 point deduction. When are paychecks calculated? By whom? Paychecks are calculated by grade level teachers every Friday to be distributed on Mondays. For what are paychecks used? Paychecks are used to inform parents of student’s weekly performance in both academic and character. In addition, paychecks are used to reward our students. At the end of each quarter students who have maintained a quarterly average of 35 or more may earn a quarterly reward trip. At the end of the year, students who have maintained an average for the entire year of 35 or more may earn the end‐of‐the‐year trip. As discussed in the field trip section above, paychecks are only one of the criteria necessary to earn KIPP field trips. How do I calculate paychecks? KEY POINTS: • Teachers write comments based on attendance, homework, classwork and teamwork. • Each comment is worth a specific number of points (see paycheck definitions on previous page). • All students start with a 35 if there are no comments written on a paycheck. • All students begin with +3 in the attendance column. • If for medical reason a student misses school for 3 or more days, they will not receive a paycheck therefore they will not receive a score. This does NOT mean that they receive a zero. CALCULATION (SEE SAMPLE PAYCHECK ON THE NEXT PAGE) Below is how the paycheck is calculated on Friday once all paycheck comments are made. The next page has a sample of a paycheck. 1. Teachers then add all positive comments in each category and place the total in the top box (written on paycheck). 2. Then teachers calculate the negative comments in each category and place them in the bottom box. (You can use the paycheck definitions commonly found on the back of paychecks). 3. We then add the top number and bottom number to determine the final amount in each category. 4. Once each category is calculated, we calculate across starting with 35. (If there are GANAS we add that number). 5. The final amount is written in the box at the top right corner. NOTE: I promise this gets simpler after several looks… ☺ Ask your KIPPster to help you out if you are confused. ACTUAL CALCULATION Attendance Homework Classwork Teamwork Step 1 +4 +3 +2 +4 -4 -2 -4 Step 2 More than 3 points earned Step 3 + + + Step 4
35 +
3
-2
2
0
Total:
38 Step 5
Attendance
Homework
Classwork
Teamwork
KIPP: Be Nice. Work Hard.
Monday Absent *HW
AH
*TM
Late
Date: 7/14/09 – 7/18/09
Week # 1
Late for class
Total:
JUAN/A KIPPSTER
38
Tuesday
KIPP dollars
Absent OT Late *P
AH
*A DN
SB
Late for Class
Attendance Homework +3
Wednesday Absent Inc HW Late
MH
5th Grade Manhattanville College
KIPP GANAS Corporation 250 East 156th Street Bronx, NY 10451
UB
*W YC *P DW
NA
Classwork
Teamwork
+2
+4
+4
-4
-2
-4
YC
Late for Class
GANAS
More than 3 points earned
Thursday Absent *HW
CW
*W MH
Bad TM MH
Late Late for Class
+ -2
+
+2
+
0
+
=
Juan/a had excellent participation in the beginning of the week. Keep it up! MH
Absent T Late for Class
+3 Comments:
Friday
Late
35 +
CW
*A DW
PACT (Pursuing Academic & Character Traits) H3 = Helpful HW Habits CHIEF AIM: We will support and monitor the homework process for KIPPsters who have zeros (5th‐8th) or low paychecks due to multiple missing homework assignments (5th & 6th). Who has to go?
• •
Paychecks with zeros that would have been above 35 without homework issues Low paychecks with the majority of deductions due to homework issues
What do they do in H3?
• • • • •
Have a Silent Study Hall Support monitored by Teachers Check agendas for teacher signatures Develop organizational skills, work habits and study habits Foster independence with homework and a transition to Homework Club where necessary
CD = Character Development CHIEF AIM: We will guide students through the identification of issues with behavior and character and work through a problem solving model to help the students develop their own solutions.
Who has to go? • 5th and 6th Graders whose paychecks that are below 30 for predominantly behavior‐based issues • Issues of dishonesty…academic or otherwise • Administrative Placements made by Ms. Ruiz or Mr. Brenner.
What do they do in CD? • Work through a process that: 1. Identifies issues and reasons why these are issues for a KIPPster 2. Brainstorms solutions 3. Ranks solutions in order of priority 4. Writes a justification for the attempted solution 5. Feedbacks on success or failure 6. Moves on to another solution if necessary
If there seems to be a KIPPster who may fit in either area a decision will be made administratively by Ms. Ruiz or Mr. Brenner. Once a student is in H3 for a second time they will be placed in Homework Club for a minimum of one week following a 35 or above on their paycheck. Teachers may also make recommendations for Homework Club and will discuss these with students and their parents. Students who are in PACT and involved in after school extra‐curricular activities will be removed from activities until they have completed their PACT obligations.
CODES OF CONDUCT Overview The foundation of disciplinary procedures for KIPP Academy has been the Commitment to Excellence Form, the paycheck system (see previous pages for full details), and the strong relationships between parents, teachers, and children.
Codes of Conduct The following conduct are some of the behaviors that may result in suspension, whether it occurs on school site, in the vicinity of the school, on field trips, on any school sponsored activity, or on school buses. Suspension may be short‐term or long‐term, in school or out‐of‐school depending on the severity of the offense and whether or not the student has previously been suspended for the same offense. This list includes, but is not limited to: • Theft, or attempted theft, or possession of • Assault of fellow student property known by the student to be stolen • Endangering the physical safety of another by • Extortion the use of force or threats of force that place • Gambling the victim in fear of bodily injury • Abuse of school property or equipment • Conduct which disrupts school or classroom activity • Obscene or abusive language or gestures • Conduct which endangers or threatens to • Verbal or physical harassment based on endanger the health, safety, welfare, or gender, race, ethnicity, religion or disability morals of others • False bomb threat or false emergency alarm • Insubordination and other forms of • Possession of tobacco or alcohol disrespectful behavior • Possession of pagers, beepers, or • Failure to comply with school and classroom portable/cellular telephones not being used rules for instructional purposes • Failure to comply with disciplinary • Making a material false statement – i.e., lying consequences about an important matter ‐‐ to a teacher, • Cheating on quizzes, exams, or plagiarism principal, or other school personnel. • Use of forged notes or excuses
A student who has previously been suspended for the same or a similar offense may be subject to a suspension of six or more days or may be subject to expulsion. In addition, the following list of infractions may result in a suspension of six or more days or may result in expulsion. • Possession within school, on school grounds, on school buses or during any school activity, of any firearm, knife, razor blade, explosive, mace, tear gas, or other dangerous object • Arson on school property, whether accomplished or attempted • Possession or use of illegal drugs or controlled substances within school, on school grounds, on school buses, or during a school activity • Selling, distributing or purchasing illegal drugs or controlled substances within school, on school grounds, on school buses or during any school activity • Assault of another student resulting in physical injury or any assault on a staff member • Intentionally causing physical injury to another person • Causing major damage to school property
All suspensions of six or more days require the approval of the Executive Director (Quinton Vance) or Superintendent (David Levin). In all cases, families will be provided with a written explanation for the suspension prior to the beginning of the suspension and students and/or parents will have the opportunity to respond. When appropriate, arrangements for alternate instruction will be offered.
CONCERNS OR DISAGREEMENTS If you have a concern about the implementation of the school policy, academic grade, discipline decision, or anything else, we encourage you to contact the appropriate staff member at KIPP Academy by telephone. All staff members are committed to responding promptly to parent/guardian concerns. If an issue is not resolved promptly or satisfactorily, please contact Ms. Ruiz to discuss the matter further. Parents may also reach out directly to the Executive Director (Quinton Vance) or Superintendent (David Levin) in writing if their concerns have not been answered by the principal. The Executive Director or Superintendent will respond either in writing, telephone, or in person depending on the circumstance. If you are not satisfied with the resolution determined by the Executive Director and Superintendent, you may then contact the Chair of KIPP Academy’s Board of Trustees.
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT As already mentioned, one of the keys to the success of KIPP Academy is the strong working relationship between parents, teachers, and children. The key to this is constant communication. It is for this reason that all KIPP Academy teachers give out their phone numbers and it is also the reason that we have a completely open door policy. All KIPP families are welcome to visit the school at anytime. In addition to phone conversations, school visits, home visits by staff, KIPP Academy also has quarterly conferences between parents, teachers and children. Below are some additional ways that parents have gotten involved in the past. Please feel free to suggest any other ideas you might have.
WHAT ARE A FEW WAYS I CAN GET INVOLVED? Our families are always asking for ways to get involved. Below are a few ways in which you can do so. ☺ Join the KPA (KIPP Parent Association) ☺ Chaperone and participate in our community service activities ☺ Get involved in parent‐literacy activities with your child ☺ Join our pot‐luck dinners ☺ Attend student in‐class performances (poetry café, in class speeches and presentations, cultural celebrations, and other’s depending on specific classes) ☺ Attend quarterly awards ceremony ☺ Chaperone school trips ☺ Patrol after‐school to ensure safety of all of our children ☺ Attend parent‐meetings ☺ Stop by the school to sit in on classes (no amount of time is too short☺) ☺ Invite us to your homes for home visits ☺ Sit in on panels ☺ Inform us of community events or activities we should be participating in ☺ Help with Picture Day ☺ Carpool with other families ☺ Attend parent‐teacher conferences ☺ Volunteer with enrichment classes, such as knitting, technology, study hall, reader’s theater, etc ☺ Cheer and support our sports teams (basketball, cross country, track, soccer) ☺ And of course we are always available to sample delicious home‐cooked meals that your
child rants and raves about ☺ And if there are additional volunteer opportunities, please feel free to contact Ms. Ruiz directly.