09-21-2023 ACES and DSAHS Governing Board Meeting Agenda AVENTURA GOVERNING BOARD
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL AND
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL
� r
DON SOFFEP
' - AVENTURA
HIGH SCHOOL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
September 21, 2023
9:00 a.m.
Aventura Government Center
19200 W. Country Club Drive • Aventura, FL 33180
51h Floor Executive Conference Room
Governing Board
AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING BOARD
FOR THE AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL (ACES) AND
THE DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL(DSAHS)
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg, Esq.
Vice Mayor Amit Bloom
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland, Esq.
Commissioner Billy Joel
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss
Commissioner Dr. Linda Marks
Commissioner Michael Stern
City Manager Ronald J. Wasson — Governing Board Facilitator
City Clerk Ellisa L. Horvath, MMC
City Attorneys Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman
(Updated 9118/2023)
Aventura Governing Board Meeting Agenda(Updated 9/18/23) September 21, 2023
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING BOARD FOR THE
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL (ACES) AND THE DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH
SCHOOL (DSAHS):
1. CALL TO ORDER\ROLL CALL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
• May 18, 2023 Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting
4. APPROVAL OF THE ACES PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK 2023-2024 AND
THE DSAHS FAMILY HANDBOOK 2023-2024
5. APPROVAL OF THE 2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANCE ALLOCATION
PLAN FOR ACES AND THE 2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANCE
ALLOCATION PLAN FOR DSAHS
6. APPROVAL OF THE MASTER SCHOOL SAFETY PLAN 2023-24 SY FOR
ACES AND DSAHS
7. APPROVAL OF THE RE-APPOINTMENT OF THE 2023/2024 ACES PARENT
FACILITATOR/CONFLICT RESOLUTION OFFICER AND THE DSAHS PARENT
FACILITATOR/CONFLICT RESOLUTION OFFICER
8. APPROVAL OF OUT-OF-FIELD WAIVERS FOR ACES
9. APPROVAL OF SCHOOL CALENDAR AMENDMENT FOR ACES
10. SCHOOL UPDATES:
• ACES Principal Ana Melhuish
• DSAHS Principal Dr. Geoff McKee
11. OTHER BUSINESS
12. PUBLIC COMMENT
13. ADJOURNMENT.
This meeting is open to the public. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990,all persons who
are disabled and who need special accommodations to participate in this meeting because of that disability should
contact the Office of the City Clerk,(305)466-8901 or cityclerk@cityofaventura.com,not later than two days prior
to such proceedings. One or more members of the City of Aventura Advisory Boards may participate in the meeting.
Anyone wishing to appeal any decision made by the Aventura City Commission, acting in its capacity as the
Governing Board for the Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES) and the Don Soffer Aventura High School
(DSAHS),with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing will need a record of the proceedings and,
for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the
testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Agenda items are available online at cityofaventura.com
for viewing and printing, or may be requested through the Office of the City Clerk at (305) 466-8901 or
cityclerk@cityofaventura.com.
Page 1 of 1
DON SOFFER
( AVENTURA
HIGH SCHOOL
AVENTURA GOVERNING BOARD
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL AND
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
MAY 18, 2023
9:00 a.m.
Aventura Government Center
19200 West Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 33180
Aventura City Commission acting in its capacity as the Governing Board for the Aventura
City of Excellence School (ACES) and the Don Soffer Aventura High School (DSAHS):
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL: The meeting was called to order by Mayor
Howard Weinberg at 9:10 a.m. The roll was called and the following were present: Mayor
Howard S. Weinberg, Vice Mayor Amit Bloom, Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland',
Commissioner Billy Joel, Commissioner Paul A. Kruss2, Commissioner Dr. Linda Marks,
Commissioner Michael Stern, City Manager Ronald J. Wasson, City Clerk Ellisa L.
Horvath, and City Attorney Robert Meyers. Also present were ACES Principal Dr. Anthony
Tyrkala, DSAHS Principal Dr. Geoff McKee 3, Rachel Windler-Freitag - South Florida
Deputy Director Charter Schools USA, and Rita Weaver - Director of Board Governance
- Charter Schools USA 4. As a quorum was determined to be present, the meeting
commenced.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge was led by Mayor Weinberg.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
• April 20, 2023 ACES Governing Board Regular Meeting
• April 20, 2023 DSAHS Governing Board Regular Meeting
A motion for approval of the January 20, 2023 regular meeting minutes for ACES and
DSAHS was offered by Commissioner Joel, seconded by Vice Mayor Bloom, and passed
unanimously (5-0) by roll call vote, with Commissioner Friedland and Commissioner
Kruss absent.
i Arrived at 9:25 a.m. during Item 6.
2 Arrived at 9:19 a.m. during Item 4B.
3 Participated via virtual communications media technology.
4 Participated via virtual communications media technology.
Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting Minutes
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
May 18, 2023
4. ORDINANCES — SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Mrs. Horvath read the following Ordinance title:
A. AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION, ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING
BOARD FOR THE AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL (ACES):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA,ADOPTING THE ATTACHED
CHARTER SCHOOL OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR THE AVENTURA CITY
OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024 (JULY 1 — JUNE 30),
PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF THE CITY CHARTER; AUTHORIZING
EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY THE BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR
BUDGETARY CONTROL; PROVIDING FOR PERSONNEL AUTHORIZATION;
PROVIDING FOR GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENTS;
PROVIDING FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
A motion for approval was offered by Vice Mayor Bloom and seconded by Commissioner
Joel.
Mr. Wasson reviewed the proposed budget for FY 2023/24 totaling $13,350,922, with an
increase of 14.5% over the prior year.
No Commission comments were provided.
Mayor Weinberg opened the item for public comment. There being no comments, Mayor
Weinberg closed the item for public input.
The motion for approval of the Ordinance on second reading passed unanimously (5-0)
by roll call vote, with Commissioner Friedland and Commissioner Kruss absent, and
Ordinance No. 2023-08 was adopted.
Mrs. Horvath read the following Ordinance title:
B. AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION, ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING
BOARD FOR THE DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL (DSAHS):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA,ADOPTING THE ATTACHED
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL BUDGET FUND 191 FOR FISCAL YEAR
2023/2024 (JULY 1 — JUNE 30), PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF THE CITY
CHARTER; AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY THE
BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL; PROVIDING FOR PERSONNEL
AUTHORIZATION; PROVIDING FOR GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING FOR
AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
A motion for approval was offered by Commissioner Stern and seconded by
Commissioner Joel.
Page 2 of 4
Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting Minutes
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
May 18, 2023
Mr. Wasson reviewed the proposed budget for FY 2023/24 totaling $8,794,645, with an
increase of 8% over the prior year, without a subsidy from the City.
The City Commission discussed the item including the following: teacher increases and
providing a report showing the data for the increases for the teachers.
Mayor Weinberg opened the item for public comment. There being no comments, Mayor
Weinberg closed the item for public input.
The motion for approval of the Ordinance on second reading passed unanimously (6-0)
by roll call vote, with Commissioner Friedland absent, and Ordinance No. 2023-09 was
adopted.
5. APPROVAL OF REVISED 2023-2024 DSAHS CALENDAR: Mr. Wasson,
reviewed the revised school calendar to change a teacher planning day to November 9th.
A motion for approval was offered by Vice Mayor Bloom and seconded by Commissioner
Kruss.
No Commission comments were provided.
No public comments were provided.
The motion passed unanimously by roll call vote (6-0), with Commissioner Friedland
absent.
6. DISCUSSION OF DSAHS CLUBS/HONOR SOCIETY: Commissioner Dr. Marks
discussed the importance of the National Honor Society inductions and the lack of a
Spring induction at the school, as well as the need for more clubs.
Dr. McKee provided information on the National Honor Society inductions as well as the
numerous clubs offered.
The Commission discussed the inductions as well as the clubs.
No public comments were provided.
The discussion resulted in a request for the Honor Society inductions to be held at the
proper times (Spring and Fall).
7. SCHOOL UPDATES:
• DSAHS Principal Dr. Geoff McKee: Principal Dr. McKee provided updates
including the following: current testing, FAST exam, graduation requirements, graduation
ceremony (May 30), senior awards night (May 24), referendum money for teachers, and
prom.
Page 3 of 4
Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting Minutes
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
May 18, 2023
The City Commission provided input and discussed the following items: Miami-Dade
County School Board representative attending the graduation and her representative
presenting an award at the awards ceremony.
No public comments were provided.
• ACES Principal Dr. Anthony Tyrkala: Principal Dr. Tyrkala provided updates
including the following: end of year testing and receipt of results, Algebra requirement for
DSAHS, enrollment, student behavior, researching drug and alcohol programs, field trips,
student with grandfathered residency, and upcoming student events.
The City Commission provided input and discussed the following items: increasing the
amount participating in the field trip to Boston, proactively checking addresses of
students, waiting list, percentage of students from ACES scheduled to attend DSAHS,
the need for another school, and the results of parent surveys.
Mr. Wasson provided information on checking student addresses.
Ms. Weaver provided information on parent surveys.
The Commission and both principals discussed the volunteer process for parents.
Ms. Windler-Freitag provided information on the parent contract regarding required
volunteer hours.
No public comments were provided.
8. OTHER BUSINESS: None.
9. PUBLIC COMMENT: None.
10. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the
Commission as the Governing Board, a motion to adjourn was offered by Commissioner
Joel, seconded by Commissioner Kruss, and unanimously approved; thus, adjourning the
meeting at 10:09 a.m.
Ellisa L. Horvath, MMC, City Clerk
Approved by the City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board for ACES
and DSAHS, on September 21 , 2023.
Page 4 of 4
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL
ACES
off
E(I FXEENCE ESCAlfH��S
P "~
M
,u-7'MM
gina
1�
PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
2023-2024
ACES
. .,
C1, ENCECSCH00�
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL
3333 NE 188" Street
Aventura, Florida 33180
Telephone: 305-466-1499
Fax: 305-466-1339
Website: www.aventuracharter.or
Board of Directors
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg
Commissioner Dr. Linda Marks
Commissioner Michael Stern
Commissioner Billy Joel
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss
Commissioner Rachel Friedland
Commissioner Amit Bloom
City Manager
Ronald J. Wasson
Principal
Ana Melhuish
1
venturat City of Excellence School ACES
3333 NE 1881'' Street
Aventura, FL 33180
Dear ACES Families,
Welcome back to those who are returning and welcome to those who are joining the
ACES Family for the first time. With great excitement, ACES embarks upon its 20th year
of operation in partnership with you. Our innovative programs include rigorous
academics, character education, athletics, interest exploration, and more. ACES
curriculum is centered on Florida's new B.E.S.T. Standards, and our goal is always to
exceed those standards in all that we do!
Please know that your commitment to engaging in all communication and reviewing our
handbook is vital for ensuring a positive, safe, and supportive learning environment for
all students. It is through the collaborative efforts of school staff, parents, our Governing
Board, the School Advisory Committee, and our school community that ACES continues
to thrive.
Once again, we outperformed the district, state, and neighboring schools. There are still
areas for growth and improvement. We will work towards these goals with the support of
our families and school staff.
Our 2023-2024 theme is "20 Years of Excellence." While we will celebrate all of the
excellence our school has accomplished in the last 20 years, there will be a strong focus
on growing and improving in the years to come. With the theme, we are rolling out four
values for our students to use as a guide while with us as well as when they leave us.
Purpose, Passion, Integrity, and Grit. These values will tie in with ACES' character
education program that embeds explicit components that encourage students to care for
their school, community, and the world as kind Upstanders, ensuring that ACES is No
Place For Hate. Students and families are also expected to live up to their commitment
by putting forth the maximum effort, a factor within each of our control. Remember, at
ACES, Excellence is the Expectation, Not the Exception!
We are truly committed to providing the best education possible for each learner. We will
achieve this, not by being perfect, but by striving for excellence every day as we grow.
Together we will make this a fantastic year for all!
Sincerely,
Ana Melhuish . •
ACES Principal
ACES
YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
2
Table of Contents: Page Number(sl
ACES SCHOOL CALENDAR 2023-2024 5
REPORT CARDS AND INTERIM REPORTS 5
ACES WELCOME 6
NON DISCRIMINATION NOTICE
ACES VISION STATEMENT 6
ACES MISSION STATEMENT 6
ACES PHILOSOPHY AND ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS 6
ENROLLMENT/REGISTRATION 7
SCHOOL DIRECTORY 7
GOVERNING BOARD 7
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 7
SCHOOL HOURS 8
ARRIVAL POLICY 8
ATTENDANCE 8
ABSENCES 8
EARLY DISMISSAL 9
TARDY POLICY 9
DISMISSAL RULES 10
CAR RIDER PERMITS 11
BUS TRANSPORTATION 11
"STUDENT OF THE MONTH" AWARDS 12
PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES 12
STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS 13
DRESS CODE & UNIFORM POLICY 13
LABELS 14
DRINKS 14
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 14
EMERGENCY DRILLS 14
FIELD TRIPS 15
3
CURRICULUM 16
GRADING 16
ACADEMIC HONESTY/HONOR CODE 17
PARENT PORTAL 17
HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION 17
HONOR ROLL REQUIREMENTS 17
RECESS 17
"HOME LEARNING" POLICY 17
INSTRUCTIONAL BOOKS, EQUIPMENT, MATERIALS, AND SUPPLIES 18
PROMOTION/RETENTION 18
HEALTH SERVICES 19
ILLNESS, ACCIDENT AND MEDICAL EMERGENCY 19
COVID-19 REPORTING PROCEDURES 19
SCREENINGS 19
MEDICATION 19
HEAD LICE 19
PARENT VOLUNTEER HOURS 20
PARENTS AND VISITORS ENTERING THE SCHOOL 20
STUDENT RECORDS/PARENT RIGHTS 20
COMMUNICATION POLICY/CONFLICT RESOLUTION 21
MEDIA CENTER 21
PARTIES 22
SCHOOL AFTERCARE INFORMATION 22
SCHOOL AFTERCARE PAYMENT PROCEDURE 23
SCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE 23
LUNCHES 23
LUNCH PROGRAM 23
SCHOOL RULES 24
BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY 25
REPORTING SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR OR THREATS 25
SPECIAL PROGRAMS 25
ONE TO ONE DEVICES 28
4
ACES SCHOOL CALENDAR 2023-2024
Dates when students are not in school:
September 4 Labor Day
September 25 Teacher Planning
October 27 Teacher Planning
November 9 Teacher Planning
November 10 Veterans Day
November 20-24 Thanksgiving Break
December 22 Teacher Planning
December 25— January 5 Winter Recess
January 15 Martin Luther King Day
January 19 Teacher Planning
February 19 Presidents'Day
March 25 — March 29 Spring Break
April 8 Teacher Planning
May 27 Memorial Day
June 7 Teacher Planning
Please note that Teacher Planning Days after the first quarter may serve as
inclement weather make-up days if loss of power is likely to occur.
REPORT CARDS
Report Cards Issued on or around:
November 8 1 st Quarter Report Card
February 7 2nd Quarter Report Card
April 17 3rd Quarter Report Card
*Please note that the 4th quarter report cards will be mailed home during the month of July.
*If you would like to sian ua for nanerless Interims/Reaort Cards. visit MDCPS Parent Portal
5
ACES WELCOME
The staff of the Aventura City of Excellence School welcomes you to our school
family where integrity and excellence are the standards of the school in which the
entire community takes pride. Along with increasing your knowledge and
developing your skills, your major responsibility at ACES will be to respect your
fellow students, teachers, and staff members. They, in return, will respect you. No
individual has the right or privilege to infringe or deny the rights of another
individual. Remember that your success in school will be directly proportional to
your efforts. School will be whatever you make it. Let us always have the spirit to
do the things that will make school rewarding.
Non Discrimination Notice
Aventura City of Excellence School does not discriminate on the basis of race,
color, national origin, sex, disability, or age. We strive to be an inclusive
community of learners, where all members feel valued. If you feel this has not
been the case please contact the school Principal.
Vision Statement:
To join with our community to become the premier charter school in the nation,
where academic excellence coexists with the promotion of innovation and
exploration grounded in an atmosphere of social responsibility.
Mission Statement:
ACES mission is to develop future leaders by providing a world-class education
with an unwavering commitment to the Whole Child, and an unyielding dedication
to Student Success! At ACES, excellence is the expectation, not the exception!
The Aventura City of Excellence School staff believes that we have a
responsibility to create a school climate that enables every individual to feel
cared for, respected and to act as contributing members of the school culture. All
students can learn and will be encouraged to strive for academic excellence and
personal growth that will enable them to be productive and active members of
society. In the practical application of this philosophy, opportunities shall be
provided to:
1. Develop in each student and professional staff member a sense of
self-worth and a positive self-concept
2. Imbue such character traits as honesty, integrity, compassion, respect,
cooperation, humility, happiness and responsibility toward each other, our
community and our world
3. Develop in each student an understanding of and responsibility for
making positive personal and social choices
4. Improve upon the quality of instruction and curriculum by increasing the
effectiveness of teachers and their teaching through ongoing professional
development
6
5. Provide each student with experiences to develop an awareness of good
health habits and attitudes for living by encouraging each student to
perceive learning as a life-long continuing process from preschool
through adulthood
6. Encourage, through educational reporting, city and district officials, the
citizens of Aventura, and the professional staff to support quality education
in the school
7. Use assessment data to identify and track student achievement and
learning goals
8. Develop school programs based on "best practices" to promote learning
gains
9. Develop strong parent-teacher-student relationships
10. Provide a strong accountability system that will hold everyone at the
school responsible for maximizing learning opportunities
11. Provide a low student-teacher ratio in order to enhance the development
of the individual strengths of each student
12. Provide additional staff members for enrichment and remediation
services
13. Develop in each student the ability to innovate, think critically, make
inferences, apply knowledge to new settings and use these skills to make
wise choices
ENROLLMENT/REGISTRATION
Aventura City of Excellence School admits students of any race, color, national
origin, religion or gender. First consideration for admission will be given to
residents of Aventura and dependents of U.S. military personnel on active duty in
accordance with Florida Law. Once a student is accepted as an ACES student,
the registrar will support in the completion of all necessary documents. Please
see our current and prospective student links on the school website. (linked here)
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
All students attending ACES are students of Miami-Dade County Public Schools,
and are subject to applicable policies and entitled to all rights of any student
attending a school in the district.
SCHOOL DIRECTORY
Click here to view the full school directory.
GOVERNING BOARD
The City of Aventura Commission serves as the Governing Board of ACES. Click
here to view the Governing Board directory and a listing of meeting dates.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Each student at ACES has the right to:
• learn
• ask questions and get honest answers
• make mistakes
7
• know how their grades are determined
• think their own thoughts and believe their own beliefs
• grow and develop at their own pace
• own their own things
• live free from fear
• be treated with respect and care
• the responsibility to allow others to exercise the above-stated rights
SCHOOL HOURS
Breakfast available: 8:OOAM - 8:20AM
K-5th Grades: 8:30AM - 3:OOPM
Middle School: 8:30AM - 3:30PM
*Students cannot be dropped off prior to 7:45AM without coordination.
ARRIVAL POLICY
Students should arrive with all appropriate supplies prior to the start of class (in
their seat). Students should not be dropped off prior to 7:45 without coordination
and parents are not to leave their vehicle when dropping off. All walkers should
enter through the west gate and parents should not pass the Middle School
building unless they are going to the front office themselves. Students arriving
to school by car will be directed to enter the building through the
breezeway. Students will not be able to access the building through the
front office. It is advised that parents wait until after arrival to speak to the front
office regarding any non-emergency situations. (If it is raining, the students will
enter through the gate near the gym or the middle school doors. Please still pull
all the way up and students will utilize the awning to walk into the building).
ATTENDANCE
It is important that pupils acquire the habit of regular attendance. All students
are expected to be present and punctual for school every day. Parents are
encouraged to promote good attendance and to refrain from making plans which
will interrupt the educational process.
ABSENCES
1. Your children must be in school every day as mandated by state law.
2. When absences become a concern (3 or more unexcused absences in a
calendar month/10 or more unexcused absences in a 90-day period), the
attendance clerk will first confirm medical excuse notifications received and
recorded for absences.
3. The attendance clerk will contact the parent regarding excessive absences (5
or more unexcused absences in a calendar month/15 or more unexcused
absences in a 90-day period) or early dismissals via phone conference, email,
teacher/parent conference or letter.
4. If absences continue, a formal referral letter for attendance will be made to
8
administration with supporting documentation of parent contact and
non-medical absences stapled to the referral and proper district and school
procedures will follow.
5. A student must be present for a minimum of 4 hours of instructional time to be
considered present.
6. Students with excused absences will have 10 days to complete make-up
work.
7. If a student is picked up early, they will be marked absent for any classes they
m iss.
A student accumulating ten (10) or more class unexcused absences in an
annual course or five (5) or more class unexcused absences in a
designated semester course may have quarterly, semester, and final
grade(s) withheld pending an administrative screening, and completion of
assigned interventions by the Attendance Review Committee.
When a child returns to school after an absence they must bring a note and turn
it into the bin at either the Front Office or Middle School Office. Notes can also be
emailed to attendance@aventuracharter.org. The note must include the student's
name, dates of absence, the reason for the absence, parent/guardian name, and
phone number.
The following are considered excused absences:
• Student illness
• Medical appointment
• Death in the family
• Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members
of a faith that such holiday or service be observed
• School-sponsored event or activity approved by the school principal
As the holidays approach many of our students' families take holiday vacations.
We encourage parents to vacation only when school is not in session. Families
must fill out and submit a "Notification of Absence" form to the school
administration. The school's registrar will inform the family as to the decision.
All other absences are considered unexcused.
All students with an excused absence (note from home or doctor) have ten days
to make up missed work and assessments. All students with an excused
absence (note from home or doctor) must complete the make-up assignments for
classes missed within the approved makeup window. Students should check
Google Classroom to locate the missed work.
All students with an unexcused absence may make-up work only if a "Notification
of Absence Form" is on file and has been approved by administration.
Administration will email teachers directly if a form has been submitted. If prior
9
notification of absence is not completed, the parent must request permission
from administration to make up work and assessments.
EARLY DISMISSAL
The parent or guardian must make all requests for early dismissal to the main
office. Parents and guardians requesting early dismissal for their child must do so
by sending a note to the teacher who will forward the note to the office. Only in
the case of an extreme emergency will a phone call for early dismissal be
acceptable. A child being dismissed early must be signed out in the office. The
child will be asked to report to the office to meet the parent or guardian for
dismissal. Students will only be released to adults who have been listed on the
emergency contact card and who are over the age of 18. Please note: According
to district rule, early dismissal will not be granted after 2:30 PM for elementary
students, or 3:00 PM for middle school students. Additionally, during early
release days, early dismissal will not be granted after 11:30 AM for
elementary students, or 12:00 PM for middle school students.
5 early dismissals in a single quarter may result in a loss of grade in any
subject the student is not present for. Parents must provide documentation
for medical appointments. Students who miss classes for medical reasons
will be given the opportunity to make up assignments on campus outside
of school hours.
TARDY POLICY
A child is tardy when he/she is not in their classroom by 8:30 a.m. All
students who are tardy for the start of school must enter the front office with a
parent and be issued a tardy pass. A student is considered tardy if they are
absent at the time attendance is taken provided the student is in attendance
before the close of the day. If tardy for half a period or more, a student is
considered absent for that period. Please note that our arrival gate will be
closed at 8:27 daily. All students who arrive after the gate is closed are
tardy. Tardy students MUST be signed in by an adult.
Excused Tardies:
A student will be considered as excused only if a parent/guardian personally
escorts their child to the front desk and has a viable reason. The reasons for
excused tardies are as follows:
1. Doctor appointments with notes from the doctor/orthodontist or
2. Extreme emergencies approved by administration
Excused tardies will not count toward the student's tardy record.
Unexcused Tardies:
A tardy will be considered as unexcused due to alarm clock failures, "parent's
fault", car trouble, and inclement weather conditions. Unexcused tardies will
count toward the student's record. Your children must be in school and ON TIME
by state law.
3 unexcused tardies will constitute 1 absence
10
1. At three tardies, the attendance clerk will double-check for medical
excuses or extreme emergencies approved by the administration for
tardies turned in and recorded.
2. At three tardies, the attendance clerk will contact the parent regarding
excessive tardies or early dismissals via phone conference, email,
teacher/parent conference, or letter.
3. At five tardies, students will be issued a morning reflection at 7:45 a.m. to
work on goals that promote timeliness. Parents may be required to attend.
4. If tardies continue, a referral letter will be given to administration with
supporting documentation of parent contact and non-medical or
emergency tardies stapled to the referral. Appropriate consequences will
follow, such as early release detention or Saturday School.
DISMISSAL RULES
Please note that all same-day changes to elementary dismissal procedures
must be handled through email notification to the front desk. Students may
only be released to an adult on the emergency contact card. Same-day
dismissal changes should be handled as early as possible in the day in
order to ensure teachers receive the communication in a timely manner.
Parents who pick up their child are expected to adhere to the school's dismissal
rules, which have been written to assure the safety of all children. Rules for
parental pickup are listed below:
• Car Rider dismissal begins at 3:00 PM (elementary) 3:30 PM
(middle). Siblings will not be dismissed together.
• Parents must remain in their vehicle at all times (NO WALK-UPS)
• Students will not be released to any individual who is not in a
vehicle, unless they are at the walker location (near Middle School)
• No cell phone use while in the school zone (subject to citation)
• Students who are designated as "walkers" or "bike riders" in grades
4-8 may leave campus on their own during dismissal. Students in
grades K-3 must have an adult pick them up unless otherwise
communicated to the teacher. Students in K-3 who have older
siblings may walk home with the older sibling.
Note. A walker is a student who walks from the school
campus to their home. Students will not be dismissed
to walk to waiting vehicles.
• If you must change your child's "typical" dismissal method, a
message must be sent to the homeroom teacher the day before. If
the change must be done within the school day, parents must
receive confirmation from the front office.
11
• If it is raining we will continue as normal unless the conditions
require us to pause dismissal. In this case, all families will be
notified via school communication tools.
• No student should be picked up past 4:00 pm. Families will need to
park and come to the front desk to pick up their child, where they
will be asked to complete after-care registration and pay the $25
registration fee. For any additional late pickups, students will be
placed in emergency after-care with YMCA at a fee to be charged
to the family. If a parent knows they will need emergency aftercare
prior to dismissal, they should call the Community Recreation
Center at (305)466-3883.
CAR RIDER
Students who are designated as car riders will only be released to vehicles that
have activated the student on Concierge Pad. Anyone picking up a student
should have each student's placard with their number visible as they drive
through the car line.
BUS TRANSPORTATION
As our present charter agreement states, regular bus transportation will be
provided under the following conditions through Al Transportation:
• Only children eligible for bus transportation are allowed to ride the school bus.
• Eligible bus children may ride the bus only to and/or from designated stops.
• Changing designated bus stops is not allowed.
• Children who do not qualify as bus riders may not use the regular bus
transportation to provide a courtesy ride to visit friends, to attend parties, etc.
• Children who qualify as bus riders may not transfer to other buses for a
courtesy ride to visit a friend, to attend parties, etc.
• Please note that all changes to dismissal procedures should be
confirmed by either the teacher or front office.
These measures are taken to ensure safe and secure bus transportation with
responsible accountability for our children. In the event of any changes from the
bus company, we will notify families using Remind.
Aventura City of Excellence School has established policies and regulations for
student behavior while riding the school bus. It is requested that the regulations
below be reviewed with your child and that they are informed that good, safe
behavior is expected at all times.
All children should:
• Be at the proper bus stop on time.
• Wait for the bus on the sidewalk or on the shoulder of the road.
• Stay in line when boarding the bus.
• Remain properly and quietly seated while the bus is in motion.
12
• Keep head, arms, and hands inside the bus at all times.
• Be courteous to the bus driver and fellow passengers.
• Never throw objects in the bus, out of the bus windows, or at the bus.
• Obey directions of the bus driver.
• Do not deface the bus seats or equipment.
• Do not eat while on the bus.
• Take all personal articles off the bus when you leave.
• Exit the bus in an orderly fashion.
• After departing, stop and look both ways.
• Cross in front of the stopped bus on the signal from the driver or school
crossing guard. Never cross the street from behind the bus.
Please note that failure to comply with bus rules may result in the loss of
privileges to ride the school bus.
Parents may visit https-//studentregistration.nellc.com/ to view bus stop information.
"STUDENT OF THE MONTH" AWARDS
Each month teachers will nominate one student for the Student of the Month
Award. Students will be nominated based on their active demonstration of good
citizenship and moral character. Parents are invited on campus to take part in
the celebration.
PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Definition for purposes of this policy: "electronic devices"shall include any
wireless telephone, watch, or device that allows two-way communication. These
devices shall also include any device that may be used to store, record, or play
auditory and/or visual information.
In order to assist in communicating with family members, ACES will allow
students to possess electronic devices on campus without it being a violation of
the Code of Student Conduct. However, the use of the electronic device during
school hours would be a violation of school policy.
The possession of electronic devices by students on school property, or while
attending school-sponsored or school-related events is a privilege, not a right. A
campus administrator or teacher, in the exercise of reasonable discretion in
response to student misbehavior, abuse of the privilege, or other reasonable
cause, may deny or cancel the privilege of possessing an electronic device.
Electronic devices are not to be used to make phone calls, send/receive text
messages, post anything on social media platforms, etc. AT ALL DURING
SCHOOL HOURS, includina classroom chanaes and restroom breaks. Electronic
devices that cause a disruption to the educational environment or any
unauthorized use of electronic devices will result in the electronic device being
confiscated and turned in to the front office. Confiscated electronic devices will
only be returned to a parent or guardian at the end of the school day or the
13
following day. Repeat offenders may be advised that they have lost the right to
have a device with them during the school day for any reason, and possession at
that point may lead to confiscation for the remainder of the school year.
STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS
Student ID cards are considered a part of the school uniform, and students are
expected to have their ID card with them daily. Not having an ID card will result
in a uniform violation. Students in grades K-3 will wear their ID card attached to
their backpack, while grades 4-8 will wear theirs on the school-provided lanyard
or the ACES lanyard purchased at Chai Tees.
Defacing the ID card will result in a student being required to purchase a new
one, and will be considered a uniform violation. Defacement includes, but is not
limited to the following; adding stickers, writing or drawing, bending, cutting, or
any other alteration to the ID card or lanyard.
DRESS CODE & UNIFORM POLICY
All ACES students are required to be in proper uniform at all times. Any student
not in uniform will be referred to the office and may be assigned administrative
consequences such as reflective time. Kindergarten through 5th-grade students
have P.E. 4 days in a row every 2-3 weeks and are required to wear their ACES
P.E. uniform. Middle school students scheduled in PE must wear their ACES
P.E. uniform for class each day. Athletic shoes must also be worn when the
student has PE. Any middle school student who does not have PE or Dance
as an elective, must be in regular school uniform daily.
Students may only wear ACES uniform sweaters/sweatshirts or plain navy blue
sweaters/sweatshirts with no hoods (without any logos/wording) to school. The
sweater/sweatshirt (outerwear) policy should be followed on all days except
dress-down days. Students are expected to follow the policy of wearing navy
blue or ACES outerwear on all spirit and upstander days.
Hats and other head coverings are not permitted with the exception of religious
reasons.
Students must wear proper and safe footwear. Backless footwear such as
flip-flops, sandals, and Crocs are inappropriate for school and may not be worn.
Friday is an optional dress-down day. This is a fundraising opportunity for ACES
where students are asked to bring $1.00 in order to "dress down." If a student
chooses not to bring $1.00 he/she may wear the regular uniform to school. " offe
shorts", "belly shirts", tank tops, and sweatshirts with hoods are prohibited.
Throughout the year ACES will designate days allowing students to wear
upstander or spirit shirts. On these days, students must wear the designated
clothing and can wear any school-appropriate bottoms. Students are expected
to follow the policy of wearing navy blue or ACES outerwear on all spirit and
upstander days.
14
Any student violating the ACES dress code, including wearing clothes
deemed inappropriate by the teacher or administration will receive
reflective-time or be sent to the office to contact home for a change of
clothes.
All uniform items must be purchased from Chai Tees located at 20725 NE 16th
Ave A-10, North Miami Beach, FL 33179. The phone number is (786)
520-3624. Uniforms may also be ordered online at chai-tees.com
Below is a summary of the ACES uniform dress code.
(ACES'new uniform has had a logo change, however old logos are still allowed to be worn)
Kindergarten-5t" Grade
Students may wear ACES uniform navy blue pants, shorts, skirt or skort with
either the ACES oxford or the polo shirt in light blue. Shirts may be long or short
sleeve. Navy blue tights or leggings are the only allowable color and may
only be worn under skirts or dresses.
6t-" - P rade
Students may wear ACES uniform khaki pants, shorts, khaki skirt, or skort with
either a white or navy polo shirt. White polos are no longer being sold but
students may still wear them as part of the uniform. Shirts may be long or short
sleeve.
The ACES P.E. uniform for all students includes gym shorts or sweatpants that
have been purchased at Chai Tees and an ACES t-shirt.
All students must be in uniform every day, reaardless of weather conditions.
LABELS
Please have your child's name on all personal property such as lunch boxes,
backpacks, sweaters, raincoats, etc.
DRINKS
Students are encouraged to make healthy choices and bring bottled water to
school. Sugary soft drinks are strongly discouraged. Energy drinks or
caffeinated beverages of any kind are prohibited on campus and will be
confiscated. We strongly encourage students to bring refillable water bottles
when on campus.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
In the event of an emergency where parents and visitors are not permitted on the
school campus, City Hall located at 19200 West Country Club Drive will be the
designated meeting location where parents should go to meet a school
15
representative to receive information. Additionally, every effort will be made to
post pertinent information related to any incident at www.aventuracharter.org.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
On a monthly basis, students practice exiting the building in a speedy, safe and
quiet manner when the fire alarm sounds. Each class is given directions by the
teacher and special announcements may be made by the administration
concerning the drill. In addition, Code Red (lockdown) drills are practiced monthly
with all conversations being held in a developmentally appropriate manner.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are planned to encourage the development of interests and to expand
the instructional program. Before a child is permitted to go on a trip, the parent or
guardian must sign a permission slip. Any parent or guardian who does not want
the child to take a trip may have the child excused from this activity, but not from
school. Any child not going on the trip will be assigned to another class for that
period of time.
Many of our field trips have limited space and are first come first serve.
Any students who have shown a pattern of disruptive behavior, defiance, or
non-compliance with rules may have the privilege of attending a field trip
revoked at the discretion of the school administration. Parents will be
notified and issued a refund if applicable. In some cases, students and
families may be placed on a Field Trip behavior contract as a way to work
towards earning the field trip.
Chaperones may not bring children other than those in the class(es) attending on
the trip (e.g., siblings, cousins, etc.)
Chaperones must stay with their designated group for the duration of the trip.
Only school staff may chaperone overnight field trips.
FIELD TRIP BEHAVIOR
Students participating in trip activities must abide by the following rules and
regulations:
All rules, regulations, and policies governing student behavior in the Miami-Dade
County Student Code of Conduct are to be followed.
Parents and Students may be required to sign a behavior contract prior to
participating in a field trip. Students are to cooperate fully with and follow the
instructions of all chaperones and other supervisory personnel. Repeated refusal
to follow requests/directions of trip supervisors/chaperones or violation of school
rules, regulations or policies will result in parents being notified and student
16
discipline upon return to school. Severe behavioral problems may result in the
student being sent home at the expense of the parents. Students who do not
behave appropriately on a field trip may lose the privilege of attending future
trips.
Whenever chaperones or supervisors are speaking, students must be quiet and
attentive. Remember that the actions of this group on this trip determine whether
or not trips such as these occur in future years. Throughout the trip, students are
required to maintain a "buddy system". STUDENTS MAY NOT LEAVE THE
GROUP WITHOUT ADVANCE PERMISSION FROM A CHAPERONE.
Neither, the School or the City of Aventura, its employees, agents or
representatives are responsible for damage or loss to any property, money or
other valuables of participants on a trip.
Students and parents should carefully consider these rules and if, for any reason,
either party feels that the student cannot adhere to ALL of the rules, then that
student should not attend.
CURRICULUM
Instruction is aligned to the B.E.S.T. Standards and the Next Generation Sunshine
State Standards. Teachers and students are accountable for all state and local
assessments in addition to internal formal and informal assessments and
observations (e.g., F.A.S.T., EOC, Benchmark Assessments, STAR, and classroom
assessments). All ACES students are required to enroll in 6 live courses on campus.
GRADING
Kindergarten students will receive grades of E, S, N, and U. Students in grades
one through eight will receive traditional grades (e.g., A, B, C, D, F) calculated
using the state's grading scale. In addition, students in grades Kindergarten
through eighth-grade will receive a report card each quarter that reflects
academic progress through grades.
Grading Scale
Grade K Grades 1 — 8
E — Excellent A — Outstanding 90% - 100%
S- Satisfactory B —Above Average Progress 80% - 89%
N — Needs Improvement C —Average Progress 70% - 79%
U — Unsatisfactory D — Below Average 60% - 69%
F — Failure
**Parents are encouraged to communicate regularly or meet with teachers
individually to discuss student progress.
17
ACADEMIC HONESTY/HONOR CODE
Student work is a reflection of their individual ability, so it is assumed and
expected that students give their best effort on all assignments.
All students will work under an honor code. Each piece of work turned in should
be an original product of the student. Plagiarism, Cheating, using Artificial
Intelligence, and Stealing are not tolerated and may lead to academic
consequences and/or school discipline as well as impact the course grade.
PARENT PORTAL
Parents and guardians are encouraged to open a Parent Portal account. The
Portal contains valuable student information including the Electronic Gradebook,
which monitors attendance and academic progress in each class. Prior to adding
a student to your account, you must obtain a Parent PIN number for your child. If
you need your Parent PIN you must come into the ACES front office with
identification, and our Registrar's office will provide it to you. Step-by-step
directions for creating a Parent Portal account can be found at the following link:
Parent Portal Directions
HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
Parents are an integral part of our school and as such we strive to keep them
involved and informed. A Parent Night will be held at the beginning of the school
year. Parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers via Aventura City of
Excellence School email. Parents should also sign up to receive Google
Classroom Guardian summaries.
CONFERENCES
Families are required to have at least one parent-teacher conference during the
school year. This can be conducted in person or through a video conference.
HONOR ROLL REQUIREMENTS
Grade 1 — Grade 8
Principal's Honor Roll: All As in Academic subjects
All As and B's in conduct and 1's in effort
Honors: All As and B's in academic subjects
All As and B's in conduct and 1's in effort
Kindergarten: Students may earn the ACES Super Star award by
earning all E's and consistently good in conduct and
effort
RECESS
Kindergarten through 5th-grade students will have recess daily (weather
permitting). While Middle School students do not have a daily recess, they will be
18
provided with outdoor brain breaks. Please be sure your child has dressed
appropriately for the weather as recess takes place outside.
"HOME LEARNING" POLICY
The purpose of homework is to develop study habits in children early on in their
academic lives. It is also used to reinforce concepts that have been taught or to
work on projects that have been assigned. It is the position of school
administration that homework should be minimal, with the primary focus on
research-based instructional technology with significant time throughout a given
week to complete recommended lessons/time.
Teachers will use the following time schedules as a guide when assigning
homework:
Grade Level Total daily Average (All Subjects)
K-2: 15 minutes
3-5: 30 minutes
6-8: 60 minutes
*(Students taking High School courses or who are on accelerated tracks may have
increased workloads)
These times are a guide and are based on the average child's ability to complete
an assignment. Please note that in addition to regular homework, a child who
does not complete a class assignment may be required to complete the
assignment for homework. Teachers keep daily records of completed homework
assignments.
Below are a few examples of how parents may assist with homework:
• Show an interest in your child's work
• Provide a place and time for quiet study
• Assist in practicing vocabulary and number combinations
• Encourage home reading and listen to your child read
• Review the homework for neatness and completeness
• Refrain from doing the work for your child
• Discuss problems related to home study with your child's teacher
• Check the Dadeschools portal often
INSTRUCTIONAL BOOKS, EQUIPMENT, MATERIALS, AND SUPPLIES
All textbooks and library books needed by students for school and homework
assignments are furnished by the school. Books must not be written in or on.
Charges will be assessed for damaged or lost books and /or materials. Students
must learn to be responsible for the care of personal and school materials.
Students will be expected to provide all basic supplies such as paper, pencils,
crayons, rulers, scissors, markers, glue, etc. Please help your child come
19
prepared for school by packing his/her homework and supplies. Middle school
students will be provided with a set of books for home use for certain subjects.
PROMOTION/RETENTION
Students will be promoted annually from one grade to another upon satisfactory
completion of academic and other requirements. Students experiencing
difficulties will be identified as soon as possible using the following procedure:
1) On-going communication between the administration, teachers, and
parents
2) Informal observations conducted by appropriate staff members, followed
by conferences between participants for suggestions as to how to help the
child.
3) Appropriate, preliminary assessment of the child's progress will be
reported to the parents, at which time the possibility of non-promotion will
be discussed.
ACES follows the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Student Progression Plan.
HEALTH SERVICES
ACES has an on-site nurse who will provide initial first-aid and communicate with
families in circumstances that may be more serious.
ILLNESS, ACCIDENT, AND MEDICAL EMERGENCY
If your child shows signs of illness or he/she is not feeling well, please keep your
child at home. A child must be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to school.
(Fever-free means a temperature less than 100, without medication, for a 24-hour
period.)
On the Medical Emergency Record please list the name of someone (be sure to
receive permission to do so) who would take care of your child in case of need. If
information (telephone number, place of employment, physician, etc.) on your
Medical Emergency Records changes, please notify us immediately.
Immunizations must be updated annually for all students grades Kindergarten
through second grade and seventh grade. The completed shot record (blue form)
and the physical examination record (yellow form) must be on file with the
registrar before students are allowed to attend school.
Students in grades third through fifth must have an updated physical annually.
SCREENINGS
All students are screened for speech, hearing, and vision to rule out any
difficulties in these areas in compliance with Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
20
MEDICATION
The administering or dispensing of any non-prescription or prescription
medicines to students by employees of ACES without specific written
authorization by the child's physician is forbidden. Only the school designee may
administer prescription medication. A doctor's authorization must be on file for all
prescription medication. All medication will be kept in the front office.
HEAD LICE
Head lice occur everywhere that there are large numbers of children. ACES
follows a strict no-nit policy. Regardless of the head lice treatment that has been
used, students must be completely free of nits in order to be in school. This
policy will help all children, families, and our school remain lice-free.
PARENT VOLUNTEER HOURS
The purpose of volunteer hours is to ensure a strong home-school connection,
which is known to increase performance for students, staff, and the school as a
whole. Parents must abide by their contracted 20 volunteer hours for one child
attending school and 30 contracted hours for two or more siblings within the
school. Volunteers must coordinate their work ahead of time, check in with the
receptionist prior to doing any volunteer work, and ensure that proper
documentation is completed.
Parents may not volunteer in their child's classroom unless they are the
designated room parent. Several opportunities will be shared publicly including
but not limited to TAW, and Fundraisers. Additionally, ACES will encourage
parents to attend workshops and complete training by providing volunteer hours
for doing so. Volunteer opportunities are updated regularly on our website.
Please note. In the event of a dispute over served hours, it is the parent's
responsibility to provide signed documentation.
PARENTS AND VISITORS ENTERING THE SCHOOL
Appointments should always be made to conference with teachers and
administrators. Appointments may be made by e-mail or, sending a note to the
teacher.
Visitors and parents are to report, sign in, and obtain a visitor's badge at the
office each time they come to the school, regardless of the purpose of the visit. In
the event that students foraet items at home they should NOT be dropped off at
school, and parents are encouraged to communicate the mistake with the
teacher or impacted staff member. The front desk will not accept any items
including lunch. This procedure is intended to alleviate unnecessary disruptions
to instruction and maintain a safe school environment.
21
Visitors and parents of middle school students are to report to the elementary
school building to sign in and obtain a visitor's badge. There will be no external
entry to the middle school building during school hours unless authorized by
administration. This is a safety practice designed to facilitate quality instruction
with no disruptions. ACES use of Raptor Technologies ensures that no unwanted
persons are allowed on campus at any time.
STUDENT RECORDS/PARENT RIGHTS
All student records are kept in compliance with state and district policies. A
parent has the right to inspect all school records upon request. Please give the
office adequate time to make a copy if records are being requested. Depending
on the amount to be copied, parents may have to pay a small fee for this service.
Student records leave the building only when a Record Release Form is signed
by the parent/guardian.
COMMUNICATION POLICY/CONFLICT RESOLUTION
• Parents or guardians of students attending ACES who have a concern or
grievance relating to school policy or the student's teacher shall first
contact the student's teacher to discuss and attempt to resolve such
concern or grievance.
• In the event the parent cannot resolve their concern or grievance with the
student's teacher, they may contact the administrator overseeing that
grade level; Ms. Fread for K-5 (cfread(a)aventuracharter.org) or Ms. Mogull
for 6-8 (smogull(d)aventuracharter.or. ) to attempt to resolve their concern
or grievance.
• In the event the parent cannot resolve their concern or grievance with the
assigned administrator, they may contact the Principal of the school to
attempt to resolve their concern or grievance.
• Parents who cannot resolve their concern or grievance with the Principal
of the school may contact the City Manager to discuss and attempt to
resolve their concern or grievance. The City Manager's decision on school
matters, except the expulsion of students, shall be final.
MEDIA CENTER
Visiting the Media Center
Students are welcome to visit the media center from 8:00 AM — 8:20 AM.
Additionally, students in grades K-5 have a scheduled time when they visit the
media center with their homeroom class. Middle School students may visit the
media center during their lunch period (students must see the media specialist in
the morning to acquire a pass). Students with no pass will not be admitted to the
media center.
Checking Out and Returning Books
Students may check out the following number of books:
22
K& 1 — May borrow one book at a time. (Kindergarten students will begin borrowing
books once they have become familiar with the media center). This typically occurs in
January.
2 & 3 — May borrow two books at a time.
4 & 5 — May borrow three books at a time.
Middle School — May borrow four books at a time.
If a student would like to renew a book they must physically bring the book into
the media center to be re-stamped. Each book has a due date slip on the inside
of the front or back cover. The last date on the slip is when the book is due. All
books that are to be returned must be placed in the book drop in front of the
media specialist's desk. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE YOUR BOOK TO YOUR
CLASSROOM TEACHER TO BE RETURNED. If a child is absent on the due
date, please have your child bring their book back the day they return to school.
If this is not done, an overdue fee will be charged.
Every student is given the opportunity to check out books from the media center.
If you do not want your child to check out books, it is your responsibility to make
your child aware of your wishes.
Overdue Books and Fees
Books that are not returned on time will be charged a 10-cent fine for each day
they are late. Students who do not pay their fines or return their books will not be
allowed to check out any library materials until their account is settled in full.
Damaged books will also accrue a fee based on the extent of the damage.
Checks and cash are accepted when paying fines and fees. Please make checks
payable to "City of Aventura". Please write your child's first and last name on the
memo section of your check.
Books and fines are NOT to be left at the front office. The front office staff will not
accept responsibility for books and fines that are left there. Please have your
child return their books and pay their fines in the media center as this teaches
them responsibility. If you have a question about a notice, fine or fee, you may
email Ms. Miranda at smirandaa-aventuracharter.org. Please put your child's first
and last name in the subject heading. If you do not have an email, feel free to
send a note with your child. Please include a phone number in your letter in case
the reply requires a phone call.
PARTIES
Invitations to parties should not be sent to the school unless the following rules
are followed:
• The entire homeroom class is invited, or if a specific gender is desired for
the party, ALL of the boys or girls in the homeroom class are invited
• This will prevent embarrassment to the child not receiving an invitation.
If the parent wishes to bring food for a special celebration they must coordinate
and approve this with the homeroom teacher. Please note that only store-bought
23
food may be served.
Birthdays may be celebrated once a month and must include all of the students
having a birthday during the month. The party may be held only during lunch or
recess and parents are not allowed to attend.
• Siblings are not permitted to attend a party held in a sibling or family
member's classroom. Additionally, food may not be brought to
individuals in other classrooms.
SCHOOL AFTERCARE INFORMATION
The School Aftercare Program is run by the YMCA. Students in Kindergarten —
8t" grade may enroll in School Aftercare, an after-school supervision program
from 3.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m.
1. Beginning at 3.30 p.m. students may be picked up from the School
Aftercare Program
2. Students must be signed out on the dismissal sheet at the front desk by
the parent or/and another authorized person. All parents or authorized
persons picking up a student should carry a photo ID at all times.
3. Students will not be dismissed to your vehicle.
4. All students must be picked up by 6.00 p.m. — no later.
5. There is a late fee for children that are not picked up on time. The late
pick-up fee is $10 for every 15 minutes past the closing time of 6.00 p.m.
Payment is due on the date of the incident. Please be advised that the
School Aftercare program is a service provided for our parents who need
their children to remain in school until 6.00 p.m. Therefore if you anticipate
any conflict with our schedule, you should consider other means of care
for your child. Daily/Hourly rates are not available through this service.
Emergency Aftercare
No student should be picked up from school past 4:OOpm. Families will need to
park and come to the front desk to pick up their child, where they will be asked to
complete after-care registration and pay the $25 registration fee. For any
additional late-pickups, students will be placed in emergency after-care with
YMCA at a fee to be charged to the family. If a parent knows they will need
emergency aftercare prior to dismissal, they should call the Community
Recreation Center at (305) 466-3883.
Aftercare Withdrawals:
If your child has been enrolled in the program and you wish to withdraw him/her,
please notify the rec center.
SCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
A School Advisory Committee will be organized in accordance with the ACES
charter agreement. This committee will offer advice to the Principal and City
Manager on issues related to the overall operation of the school.
24
LUNCHES
Students who bring lunch from home must bring their lunch to school on a daily
basis. Parents will not be able to drop off lunches at the front desk. Students
who do not have lunch have the option of getting the daily lunch. (All students in
need of food will be provided something to eat)
LUNCH PROGRAM
A'viands is our food vendor, a K-12 Elior company. While kosher options will not
be available, vegetarian options will be offered daily.
Breakfast and lunch will be served daily. Prices will be determined annually.
Students are also welcome to pack a bagged lunch.
*If you do not wish for your child to purchase lunch or snacks through the school, you must
communicate that to your child. The school will never deny a student the option to purchase food.
Lunch payments should be made through myschooI bucks.com.
Your child may qualify for a free or reduced-price lunch. These guidelines will be
disseminated by your child's classroom teacher. All information is confidential.
SCHOOL RULES
ACES students are expected to follow the MDCPS Code of Student Conduct. A
copy is provided to each family at the beginning of the school year.
A positive atmosphere is necessary to provide an effective educational program
for each child. A good school climate is the result of the administrators, teachers,
students, and parents working together.
In the Classroom - Students are expected to.-
speak in an acceptable manner
• move in a careful way
• follow directions
• respect the property and ideas of the school, teachers, and others
In general, students are expected to behave in a way that promotes learning and
does not interfere with teaching and learning. Teachers seek to promote an
optimum learning environment. Students reported for misconduct will speak with
appropriate school staff. Parents will be notified when it is deemed necessary.
In The Halls - Students are expected to.-
remember that classes are in session
• walk quietly
• go directly to their destinations
In general, students should be quiet, careful, and courteous in the halls. They
should be considerate of classes that are in session and try not to disturb
25
teachers and students who are working. During transitions, students should
walk on the right-hand side of the hallway.
On The Playground- Students are expected to.-
play carefully, and in a manner that will not cause harm to themselves or
others.
• use the rules of the games
• follow directions
• walk to their class line when the signal is given
In general, students are expected to abide by the rules of the playground, to
cooperate with the staff on duty, and be considerate. Students who do not follow
the rules may be required to miss recess for a period of time. Recess will rarely
be taken away in its entirety.
In The Cafeteria- Students are expected to.-
pass through the serving area in a quiet, orderly manner
• remain seated at their assigned tables (elementary school)
• eat lunch first without talking, then talk in an acceptable manner (quietly to
your neighbor)
• respect school property and the belongings of others
• follow directions
• clear tables and place trash in the proper receptacles before leaving
• listen carefully and line up quietly when the signal is given for dismissal
from the cafeteria
In general, students are expected to abide by the rules of the cafeteria. Students
reported for misconduct may be required or referred to the office to have lunch in
another area designated by the school administration.
A cafeteria supervisor ensures that students follow cafeteria rules and display
proper eating etiquette. Classes are rewarded for appropriate behavior.
Middle School students are expected to adhere to all of the above rules.
Students will be allowed to choose their seats for lunch unless the cafeteria
behavior deteriorates. At that time, students will be assigned seats.
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
LiveSchools is used to document daily positive and negative behavior. Families
are expected to check their children's accounts frequently and have discussions
with them about their behavior. Teachers will communicate with families about
any behaviors that are continuous.
There are three (3) levels of disciplinary action and the levels are determined by
the seriousness of the act and the Miami-Dade Code of Conduct.
26
Level I Actions- In order to resolve Level I discipline problems, the following
options are available:
• Conference with teacher
• Parent Contact
• Conference with teacher and family
• Conference with a member of administration
• Conference with counselor
• Behavioral Contract
• Detention (lunch)
Level II Actions- In order to resolve a Level II offense, more formal disciplinary
actions shall be used. Formal actions include but are not limited to:
• Detention (after school administrative)
• Detention (before or after school teacher)
• Time Out
• Conference with a member of administration
• Saturday School
• In-school suspension
• Out of-school suspension if repeated offense
Level III Actions- In order to resolve Level III offenses, the options available are:
• Out of school suspension
• Dismissal from school
• Administrative review and reassignment
AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION
An administrator or teacher will complete the Before or After-School Detention
form which includes the date/time/location of the detention, description of why the
detention was given, and the attempts made to contact parent/guardian. If a
student misbehaves during Detention or is late, they may be issued another
behavioral consequence such as Saturday Detention.
SATURDAY DETENTION
Saturday Detention may be assigned to those students whose behavior is
consistently inappropriate. Saturday Detention is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to
12:00 p.m.; students are required to wear their school uniform and must
complete reflection activities while serving the detention. There is zero tolerance
for misbehavior. A student may be suspended for one day if they miss Saturday
Detention, unless due to a family emergency or illness verified by a doctor's note.
SUSPENSION
Suspension is a disciplinary action that temporarily removes a student from a
class or all classes for a prescribed period of time not to exceed ten (10) school
days. The Principal or other member of Administration shall make every effort to
employ parental assistance with alternative consequences for misconduct prior to
suspending a student except in emergencies, disruptive conditions, or incidents
involving serious misconduct.
27
PERMANENT DISMISSAL
The Principal may recommend dismissal of a student to the Board of Directors
for any of the following:
1. Possession, use of, or transmission of a weapon including, but not
limited to, a gun, knife, razor, explosive, ice pick or club.
2. Possession, use of, or transmission of a substance capable of
modifying mood or behavior.
3. Using any article as a weapon or in a manner calculated to threaten any
person.
4. Committing a serious breach of conduct including, but not limited to, an
assault on school personnel or on another pupil, making a threat or
false report, lewd or lascivious act, arson, vandalism, or any other such
act, which disrupts or tends to disrupt the orderly conduct of any school
activity.
5. Engaging in less serious but continuing misconduct including, but not
limited to, the use of profane, obscene, or abusive language, or other
acts that are detrimental to the educational function of the school and
that have clearly transpired.
Suspendible offenses include but are not limited to, the following:
1. Fighting or other dangerous and/or disruptive behavior.
2. SmokingNaping on school grounds.
3. Being under the influence or having alcoholic beverages and/or drugs
on school grounds.
4. Possession and/or use of a weapon or any object that can be used as a
weapon including but not limited to: knives, brass knuckles, Chinese
stars, chains, mace, etc.
5. Defacing or vandalizing school property.
6. Igniting any flammable substance.
BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY
ACES follows the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Anti Bullying Policy. Miami
Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is committed to providing a safe learning
environment for all students. To this end, M-DCPS is dedicated to eradicating
bullying and harassment in its schools by providing awareness, prevention and
education in promoting a school atmosphere in which bullying, harassment, and
intimidation will not be tolerated by students, school board employees, visitors, or
volunteers. The entire policy can be found at the following link:
httip://www.dadeschools.net/schoolboard/rules/Chapt5/5d-1.1 01.pdf
In accordance with the MDCPS Code of Student Conduct, ACES maintains a
Zero Tolerance Policy on school violence, crime, and the use of weapons.
28
Any student who feels that they have been a victim of bullying or have witnessed
an act of bullying can report the incident anonymously using the Bullying Form
found on our website.
REPORTING SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR OR THREATS
FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows you to instantly relay
information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. Anyone
with knowledge of a threat can use this anonymous reporting tool by accessing
the link on any ACES device or on our school website. FortifyFL is linked here.
29
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
CHARACTER EDUCATION.-
ACES Character Education Program is focused on cultivating community. Core
values are integrated throughout the curriculum and within our daily interactions
to better prepare students for lifelong learning.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS (ELL).-
This program is offered to students who are working toward English proficiency.
Classroom teachers servicing ELL students have undergone special training
related to strategies that enhance language acquisition. ACES ELL Coordinator
collaborates with classroom teachers related to instructional modifications that
aid in content comprehension. ACES ELL Coordinator meets with parents and
conducts annual evaluations to measure progress toward English language
proficiency
EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION (ESE).-
ESE students are fully mainstreamed, reducing social stigmas and enhancing the
continuity of instruction. The ESE teacher works with the classroom teacher to
modify instruction as appropriate to enable students to meet their goals. The ESE
teacher collaborates with classroom teachers to ensure that "strategies for
success" are implemented in all subject areas.
GIFTED.-
Eligible students in grades K through 8 will have an opportunity to enroll in a
gifted Language Arts course. Project-based application allows students an
opportunity to combine their creativity and practical knowledge.
INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY.
Classroom teachers utilize technology daily to reinforce instruction and offer
opportunities for independent practice. ACES students have access to
Internet-based instructional programs at home and at school. Middle School
students are required to enroll in a year-long Computer Concepts, Coding, and
Research course designed to expose them to all facets of the technology world
available to them.
LIBRARY AND RESEARCH SKILLS.-
Our library is open each morning at 8.00 AM. Students may check out books
daily. K-5 students receive library instruction from ACES' Media Specialist in
topics such as research skills, types of literature and media, plagiarism,
organizing ideas, concept mapping and the importance of developing a lifelong
love of learning.
30
MUSIC.-
All students in grades K-5 attend music classes once per rotation. The ACES
music program emphasizes multicultural music appreciation, song, rhyme, and
music.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE).-
ACES PE program emphasizes sportsmanship and teamwork. Students are
exposed to a variety of games, sports, and activities utilizing our full-size, an
indoor gymnasium, and our Middle School track and basketball courts. Middle
School students may select PE as a full-year elective.
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE.-
This program is offered to students who qualify for services based on school
district requirements. ACES part-time Speech and Language Pathologist
services students' needs in small groups.
SCIENCE RESOURCE LAB.-
ACES science laboratory program provides students with hands-on application of
the core curriculum. Students in kindergarten through fifth conduct experiments
within their classrooms. Students conduct scientific investigations including
predictions, observation, data collection, evaluation, and communication of
findings. All middle school students enroll in a comprehensive science course
that emphasizes hands-on investigation.
SPANI SH.
ACES Modern Language Program places emphasis on four basic components of
language acquisition (e.g., listening, speaking, reading, and writing). Students
build an understanding of the relationship between perspectives and products of
various cultures. Students in grades K-5 receive Spanish instruction one time per
rotation. Middle School students can elect to enroll in Spanish courses
throughout their Middle School career at ACES.
ART
Our Arts program fosters self-expression and creativity. The Art Program is
designed to inspire and motivate students to experience the connection between
disciplines such as language arts, math, science, and social studies. Students
use a variety of mediums including paint, chalk, clay, and fabric to create 2-D and
3-D art.
31
ONE-TO-ONE DEVICES
All students will be issued a personal device as part of the ACES One-to-One
device program. All students and parents will receive and sign a One-to-One
contract which details the agreement regarding the use, repair, and replacement
of the device. The terms of the agreement are as follows:
Terms of Agreement
In this agreement, "you"and "your"means the parenuguardian and the student enrolled
in Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES). The "equipment'is a Chromebook and
battery.
Terms: You will be issued an ACES Chromebook and battery to be used
during the school day. You will comply with the ACES One-to-One
Parent/Student Handbook at all times.
Title: Legal title to the equipment belongs to the ACES and shall at all
times remain with ACES. Your right to possess and use the
equipment is limited to and conditioned upon your full compliance
with this Agreement.
Your possession of the equipment terminates on the collection date
set by the school unless terminated earlier by the ACES or upon
withdrawal from the school.
Lost, Stolen, or You must report any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment to the
Damaged school immediately. For stolen equipment, you must also file a
Equipment: police report.
If the equipment is lost or damaged, either intentionally or due to
negligence, the student may be subject to discipline and you may
be responsible for the cost of repair or replacement.
Sanctions for Any activity that violates Electronic Resources Policy and
Violations Procedures should be reported to a school administrator.
Disciplinary action, if any, for the students and other users shall be
considered on a case-by-case basis. Violations of the policy can
constitute cause for revocation of access privileges, suspension of
access to Aventura City of Excellence School electronic resources,
other school disciplinary action, and/or other appropriate legal or
criminal action including restitution, if appropriate.
32
PARENT OBLIGATION 2023-2024
I (We)the parent(s)/guardian(s) of have read and agree to
abide by the Code of Conduct and the Dress Code of(ACES). I (We) understand that my(our) child is a
(Miami-Dade Schools)student.
WHEREAS, in order to provide my(our)child with a unique educational opportunity;
WHEREAS, by choosing to enroll my (our) child at (ACES) is a decision of my (our) personal choice and not a
privilege;
WHEREAS, my(our)desire to enroll my(our)child at(ACES) is premised upon my(our)desire to become an active
partner in the education of my(our)child;
NOW,THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing:
1. As a parent of a student at(ACES), my(our)commitment is to abide by the following resolutions:
A. To recognize and embrace my role as the primary educator of my child.
B. To participate in the parenting workshops as provided by the school.
C. To attend all conferences scheduled with any member of the(ACES)staff.
D. To participate in the Parent Volunteer Program for 20 hours for the first child and 10 hours for all
other additional children.
E. To provide transportation to and from school for my child. I understand that if I am late picking up
my child, (ACES) is not responsible for my child's safety. If my child is continually tardy or absent, I
understand that for the benefit of my child's education, he/she may be required to transfer to a
school that is more accessible for my child.
F. To purchase uniforms for my child from the(ACES) approved supplier and ensure that my
child is wearing the approved uniform daily.
G. To supply a lunch, either from home or purchased from the (ACES)approved vendor,
each school day for my child.
H. To be responsible for timely payment of any fees accrued to my account at the school.
I. To read and follow all policies outlined in the school handbook.
2. To do the following things to enhance my(our)child's academic growth, I (we)agree to do the following:
A. To read and use the information sent home by the school to keep parents informed of the academic topics to
be introduced and studied in the classroom.
B. To provide a suitable time and place within the home for homework.
C. To limit television and video games and phone usage during the week and allow more time for reading,
studying and family time.
D. To check my child's homework nightly.
As a proud member of the ACES family, we believe all parents should have a choice in their child's
education, and that all children deserve access to a quality education. We look forward to sharing
information with you regarding changes in legislation, or other factors that could impact the educational
environment or a parent's right to choose. We may also call upon you to help us communicate the
importance of putting students first.To assist with the advocacy of school choice,you agree, by indicating
below, to allow for the licensing of your school related demographic data. You may opt out by checking:
No I do not want to participate. Thank you in advance for your support.
I (we) understand that participation in the school, as defined above, fulfills the mission of the school by
enhancing my child's education and the school community as a whole. I (we) understand that such
participation is a contractual obligation to the school and to my(our)child, and that failure or refusal to
fulfill this obligation is incompatible with the school's mission. Therefore, a breach of this obligation by you
may impact your child's status with the school.
Signature of Parent/Guardian
Date
Acknowledged by:
Date
33
DON SOFFER
AVENTURA
HIGH SCHOOL
11 TA
FAMILY HANDBOOK
2023-2024
A1111110,11"ll A00"ll
CHARTER SCHOOLS_ AMemberofthe CHARTER SCHOOLS. Familyof5chools
IL A 1U S A
Florida CSUSA Schools L
From the first day of high school until caps and gowns Aventura City of Excellence
are donned, students experience the most enriching Bonita Springs Charter School
growth period of their lives. The Charter Schools USA Clay Charter Academy
family of schools is proud to offer you and your family a College Preparatory Academy at Wellen Park
Collier Charter Academy
magnificent educational experience. Our schools require Coral Springs Charter School
no tuition and offer a rigorous academic curriculum, safe Creekside Charter Academy
learning environment, family atmosphere and so much Don Soffer Aventura High School
more. Downtown Miami Charter School
Duval Charter High School at Baymeadows
Duval Charter School at Baymeadows
Productive parental involvement powerfully impacts Duval Charter Scholars Academy
student performance. You are the most essential part of Duval Charter School at Coastal
your student's education. Duval Charter School at Flagler Center
Duval Charter at Mandarin
Duval Charter at Southside
Please use this handbook as a guide. If you cannot find Duval Charter School at Westside
the information you need, call our main office for Four Corners Charter School
assistance. We look forward to a successful year. We are Four Corners Charter Upper School
committed to providing our students with quality Gateway Char G-Star School of of thee A Arts h —Upper and Lower
rts
learning opportunities that will help them become Henderson Hammock Charter School
productive citizens in the 21st century. Hollywood Academy of Arts and Science
Innovative Preparatory Academy
Charter Schools USA's Mission Keys Gate Charter High School
Keys Gate Charter School
CSUSA provides world-class educational solutions with: Lakewood Ranch Preparatory Academy
• An unwavering dedication to student success Manatee Charter School
• An unyielding commitment to ethical and sound Mid Cape Global Academy
business practices North Broward Academy of Excellence
Renaissance Academy
Renaissance Charter School at Boggy Creek
Providing a choice for our stakeholders that fosters and Renaissance Charter School at Central Florida
promotes educational excellence. Renaissance Charter School at Central Palm
Renaissance Charter School at Chickasaw Trail
Renaissance Charter School at Cooper City
Charter Schools USA's Vision Renaissance Charter School at Coral Springs
CSUSA will have a dramatic impact on the world's next Renaissance Charter School at Crown Point
generation —changing lives and leaving a legacy. Our Renaissance Charter School at Cypress
Renaissance Charter School at Goldenrod
brand will be the standard by which quality is measured Renaissance Charter School at Hunter's Creek
In education. Renaissance Charter Schools at Pines
Renaissance Charter School at Plantation
Charter Schools USA Values Renaissance Charter School at Poinciana
Purpose Renaissance Charter School of St.Lucie
Renaissance Charter School at Summit
Passion Renaissance Charter School at Tapestry
Integrity Renaissance Charter School at Tradition
Grit Renaissance Charter School at University
Renaissance Charter School at Wellington
Renaissance Charter School at West Palm Beach
Renaissance Elementary Charter School
Renaissance Middle Charter School
Six Mile Charter School
SouthShore Charter Academy
Tradition Preparatory High School
Union Park Charter Academy
Warrington Preparatory Academy
Waterset Charter School
Winthrop Charter School
Winthrop College Preparatory Academy
Wood mont Charter School
2
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
A Member ofthe C HA RT E A SCHOOLS, FanvlyofSchools
A
Letter from the Principal
Dear Members of the Don Soffer Aventura High School Community,
Welcome to Don Soffer Aventura High School! I am honored to join you and all members of our school community in
accomplishing a two-part mission. Part one is to provide for these high school years to be the most wonderful years of our
students' lives to date. Part two is to equip our students to make each future year even better.
Here are some essential elements of this mission:
• Students experience TOP excellence,found at the intersection of each student's greatest"T"for talent, "O"for
opportunity,and "P"for purpose.
• Support is provided for each student to take every course on the most challenging,manageable level.
• Students have the opportunity to complete course requirements for the University of Cambridge Advanced
International Certificate of Education(AICE) diploma,as well as the College Board Advanced Placement
Capstone diploma.
• Extracurricular and athletic involvement is celebrated for student growth,to experience the fulfillment of selfless
service, and to develop resumes that impress college admission officers and scholarship judges.
• Students learn to formulate and clearly communicate sophisticated,personal perspectives verbally and in writing;
and students learn to understand the perspectives of others.
• Students develop the preparation and execution strategies necessary generate a peak performance when it matters
most in all areas of life,including standardized testing.
• Students advocate for themselves and others if ever support is needed or injustice is perceived, and all members of
our community listen.
Considering what an amazing school community we have,it is reasonable to anticipate magnificent outcomes: The
DSAHS target graduation rate is 100%; DSAHS will earn elite national ranking and maintain the current"A"rating from
the Florida Department of Education;the percent of students earning Cambridge AICE diplomas and AP College Board
Capstone diplomas will rival top high schools throughout the world; and our graduates will be prepared to succeed at elite
universities,thrive in their careers,and become global leaders.
Thank you for joining our school community in empowering our students to achieve their greatest potential,while
affirming every day they are worthy of our complete respect,kindness, and devotion just as they are.
Gratefully,
Dr. Geoff McKee,Principal
Don Soffer Aventura High School,A member of the Charter Schools USA Family of Schools
3
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Academics
Academic recognition: At the start of senior year,students who have earned meritorious recognition based on the
cumulative weighted grade point average rounded to the one-hundredth's place for all classes taken at DSAHS will be
notified:
• Summa Cum Laude distinction is earned by the top 5% of the graduating class.
• Magna Cum Laude distinction is earned by students ranked in the 6%-10%of the senior class.
• Cum Laude distinction is earned by students ranked in the 11%-15%of the senior class,as well as any student
with a weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher. Students do not receive an individual rank.
Summa Cum Laude and Magna Cum Laude final calculations will be done at the end of the third quarter, senior year, and
will include the averaged grade for quarters one,two, and three. These averaged quarter grades will receive the same
weight as the annual grades earned during 9'1i, 10'1i, and I I'1i grade.High school and college level classes not taken at
DSAHS,including those taken virtually,in middle school,through dual enrollment, and through external academic
programs,will not be included in this calculation.
Diplomas
Florida high school diploma: Students earn a diploma through either successfully passing the courses required for a
Cambridge AICE diploma; or through earning 24 credits,including 16 core academic credits and eight elective credits.
The 24-credit standard diploma option includes four credits in English/Language Arts,four credits in mathematics;three
credits each in science and social science; one credit of fine and performing arts; and one credit of physical education with
the integration of health education.At least one course within the 24 credits must be completed through online learning.A
high school level online course taken in grades 6-12 fulfills this requirement.
Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education Diploma: The Advanced International Certificate of
Education(AICE)is an international diploma students earn from the University of Cambridge in England. Cambridge
courses teach students to think independently,collaborate with peers, synthesize information,apply knowledge,and
present logical,coherent, and persuasive arguments. The AICE diploma requires students to earn seven credits in
specified subject areas.
Through earning an AICE diploma and documenting 100 hours of community service, students qualify for the Florida
Bright Futures Academic Scholars Scholarship. The AICE curriculum requirement includes AICE Global Perspectives,at
least one class in the AICE Arts and Humanities category,at least one class in the Math and Science category,at least one
class in the Language category,and any three additional AICE classes. Students who complete these requirements are not
required to meet the PE,performing or expressive arts,or online requirement for graduation.
Advanced Placement(AP) Capstone Diploma: AP Capstone is an innovative program that equips students with the
independent research,collaborative teamwork, and communication skills that are increasingly valued by colleges.AP
Capstone is built on the foundation of two courses,AP Seminar and AP Research, and is designed to enhance the
discipline-specific learning gained through other AP courses. The AP Capstone curriculum fosters inquiry,research,
collaboration, and writing skills through the intensive investigation of topics from multiple perspectives.AP courses are
rigorous college level courses. The AP Diploma requires students to earn scores of three on the five-point scale in AP
Seminar and AP Research and on any four additional AP exams.
Diploma Designations
Standard Diploma Designation: Given to all students who fulfill the State of Florida's graduation requirements. These
requirements include a 2.0 GPA, specific classes, and passing required state assessments.
Scholar Diploma Designation: Pass the Geometry,Biology 1, and U.S.History End of Course exams;earn 1 credit in
Algebra 2; statistics or an equally rigorous mathematics course;chemistry or physics or an equally rigorous course; 2
credits in the same world language;and at least 1 credit in AP,AICE,or dual enrollment.
4
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Superintendent's Diploma of Distinction: Meet the standard high school diploma requirements,and earn credit in at
least 4 Honors,AP,AICE,or dual enrollment courses;complete at least 75 hours of community service; earn a GPA of
3.5 or above by the end of the first semester of senior year with no final grades of a"C"or lower on their transcripts.
For more information regarding diplomas,visit this site: http://www.diplomapathways.dadeschools.net
Florida Seal of Biliteracy Requirements is established to recognize a high school graduate who has attained a high level
of competency in listening,speaking,reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English by the award of
a silver or gold seal on a standard high school diploma.
Florida Gold Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to a student who has earned a standard high school diploma and who has
satisfied one of the following criteria for eligibility: Has earned four foreign language course credits in the same foreign
language with a cumulative 3.0 grade point average or higher and level 4 or higher on the grade 10 English Language Arts
(ELA)Florida Standards Assessment(FSA); or has earned a score or performance level on any of the state approved
examinations; or has satisfied alternative requirements as determined by the FL Board of Education.
Florida Silver Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to a student who has earned a standard high school diploma and who has
satisfied one of these criteria: Has earned four foreign language credits in the same language with a cumulative 3.0 grade
point average or higher on a 4.0 scale; or has earned a score or performance level on any of the state approved
examinations; or has satisfied alternative requirements as determined by the FL Board of Education.
For languages which are not tested on the nationally recognized examinations, students may demonstrate language
proficiency through maintenance of a portfolio of language performance meeting the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines of
2012 in the modes of communication appropriate for that language. Visit this link for additional information:
dinlomapathways.dadeschools.net.
Academic Honor
Quality education,ethical conduct, and social responsibility are prioritized at DSAHS.All students are expected to exhibit
academic honor. Every graded assignment provides an opportunity success in two categories,one for academic
proficiency, and the other for integrity. The more important category is integrity.
Violations of academic honor generally fall these two categories:
1) Receiving or giving information that provides an unfair advantage on a graded assignment.
a. Only the information that has been made available by the teacher, or with the teacher's consent,to all
students for all graded assignments.
b. An example of an Academic Honor Code violation would be to take a test,then share in information to
one or more individuals who will take the test later.
2) Submitting work,whether completed in class or elsewhere,that is not original work of the student seeking credit
for the submission.
a. Assistance from any artificial intelligence (Al) source and any other source must be reported to the
teacher in accordance with the teacher's rules.
Those who do not demonstrate academic honor will be subject to disciplinary consequences,including probation or
dismissal from honor societies and leadership positions.Violations include lying,cheating,or stealing or assisting others
in doing so. Such acts damage trust and undermine our school's honorable reputation,for which we are all stewards.
5
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Administrative Support Team
Dr.Beck, Senior Community Relations Specialist
Ms. Campbell, School Office Administrator
Ms. Clappier,Assistant Principal
Ms. Garzon, School Enrollment and Marketing Administrator
Ms.Hernandez,Assistant Principal,Dean for students whose last names begin with P, Q, R, S,T,U,V,W,X,Y,Z
Ms. Jacobs, Student Records and System Data Specialist
Dr.McKee,Principal
Ms.Montes, School Counselor,Dean for students whose last names begin with A,B, C, D, E,F
Ms.Nicholson,College and Career Specialist
Ms.Norris,Athletic Director
Ms. Silver, School Office Manager
Ms. Weinberg, School Counselor,Dean for students whose last names begin with G,H,I,J,K,L,M,N,O
Arrival
Students need to learn the importance of regular and prompt school attendance.All students must be dropped off in the
school driveway. The early start drop-off time is from 7:OOam-7:15am to ensure students are in class by 7:24am. The
standard start drop off is from 8:00-8:20am to ensure students are in class by 8:30am. The school is not responsible for
supervision before 7:OOam or after 3:45pm,unless students are involved in school-sponsored activities.Breakfast is
available from 7:00-7:20am for early start and 8:00-8:25am for standard start students.
For drop off and pickup,vehicles enter through 3301 NE 213t1i Street,the Waterways Park main entrance.
Athletics
Students are encouraged to participate in intramural and interscholastic athletics.Athletic packets must be submitted prior
to participation and all Florida High School Athletic Association(FHSAA)requirements must be met prior to
participation.Here is the link for additional information;https:Haventuracharterhs.org/athletics/
Attendance
Please email Attendance&AventuraCharterHS.Org for all attendance matters.Don Soffer Aventura High School has
developed the following attendance policy to comply with Miami-Dade County Public Schools. One of the most
significant factors impacting achievement is punctual attendance. It is our obligation to record attendance accurately and
ensure that it is taken and recorded for each period,inform parents/guardians of student absences,and to see that the
compulsory attendance laws are enforced as mandated by Florida Statutes. We encourage the commitment of students,
parents,and staff to work together to accomplish this. Students are responsible to be present and on time to school,turn in
proper documentation explaining all absences,make-up missed assignments, and turn in assigned work on time.
Documentation regarding an absence must be received within 48-hours following the student's return to school. If
documentation is not received within that timeframe,the absence will not be excused.
A. Excused Absences
a. Student illness: Students missing 5 or more consecutive days of school due to illness or injury are
required to provide a written statement from a health care provider. The written statements must
include all days of absence.
b. Medical Appointment: If a student is absent from school due to a medical appointment,a written
statement from a health care provider indicating the date and time of the appointment must be
submitted to the front office staff.
c. Death of a family member.
d. Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members of a faith that such a
holiday or service be observed.
e. School-sponsored event or educational enrichment activity that is not a school-sponsored event,as
determined and approved by the principal or principal's designee. The student must receive advance
6
Don SofferAventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
written permission from the principal or the principal's designee. Examples of special events include
student performances and presentations at public functions,conferences, and regional, state and
national competition.
f. Subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance.
g. Out of school suspension
B. Unexcused Absences
a. Absences due to vacations,personal services,and non-school activities.
b. Absences due to older students providing supervision for siblings.
c. Absences due to illness of others.
d. Absences due to non-compliance with immunization requirements(unless lawfully exempt).
Tardiest A student is tardy if not in the assigned classroom when the late bell rings. Students will receive three grace
tardies per quarter.For the fourth,fifth, and sixth tardies, students will be assigned to lunch detentions.Beginning with
the seventh tardy in a quarter,additional disciplinary action will be taken.
Early Release: Students will only be released before 2:35pm(periods 1-7),if 1)a parent/guardian picks up the student in
person; or 2)documentation is presented to confirm the early release qualifies as an excused absence. In either case,the
departure must be pre-approved by an administrator and processed in the front office. Students who leave campus without
administrative approval will receive disciplinary consequences.
Planned Extended Absences: Parents are urged to plan family trips during school vacations. Absences due a vacation are
unexcused. If an extended absence is unavoidable,please email AttendancekAventuraCharterHS.Org at least one week
before the anticipated absence or as soon as the need for the absence is known.
Book Bats,Folders,Personal Items
Book bags,backpacks,folders,or any other personal items must not display patches,entertainment insignias,drawings,
obscene words,gang related paraphernalia,or any other item that would be deemed inappropriate,offensive,promote
alcohol or drug use,or reflect negatively on Don Soffer Aventura High School.Failure to comply will constitute a
disciplinary consequence and parent notification.Bookbags and all personal belongings are subject to search if there is
reasonable suspicion the search will uncover an illicit item or evidence of an illicit act.
Bus Transportation
Don Soffer Aventura High School does provide bus transportation to students who reside two or more miles from school,
as determined by the school's contracted bus company,AIA Transportation. In the event that the number of requesting
riders is greater than the number of available bus seats, a waitlist will be created.As soon as provisions are made for
students on the waitlist,they will be added to a bus roster.
Cafeteria
Aviands is our food services provider. Only students who qualify for free lunch and free breakfast will receive breakfast
or lunch without having to pay. Those interested in free or reduced-price meals may apply on myschoolapps.com. Lunch
costs must be paid through MySchoolBucks.Com.Here are the costs: Full price lunch: $3.45;full price breakfast: $1.75;
reduced price lunch: $0.40;reduced price breakfast: $0.30. During lunch,students must remain in the cafeteria or another
supervised area.
Care of School Propertv
Students are expected to respect the school buildings and property. Receptacles are provided throughout the buildings and
grounds for proper disposal of waste.Marking or defacing school property is a serious offense and will result in
disciplinary action and will be reported to law enforcement.Any student who damages/vandalizes school property will be
required to make full restitution for damages. Chewing gum in the school building is forbidden.All food must be
7
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
consumed in the cafeteria or area designated by Administration.Any student who disregards rules pertaining to the care of
school property will be subject to disciplinary action.
Cell Phones
Cell phones must be turned off and placed in the teacher's cell phone holding box at the start of every class unless the
teacher makes an exception for instructional purposes. Students may not leave the room during class time with their cell
phones. Cell phones and other electronic devices are subject to search by an administrator if there is reasonable suspicion
the cell phone contains evidence regarding a disciplinary infraction,threat to any member of our school community,or
criminal offense.
Unauthorized use of cell phones or other electronic devices may result in the device being confiscated.Failure to
surrender items will result in a disciplinary consequence. If confiscated,the parent may pick up the device when the
administrator is available.
Character/Citizenship
Students at Don Soffer Aventura High School are expected to demonstrate superior character and citizenship.We
encourage students to always do the right thing and seek the assistance of staff members when a troublesome situation
arises.Follow the golden rule: Do unto others,as you would have them do unto you. Lend a helping hand whenever
possible. Readily share gratitude.Make good choices and act responsibly.
Child Abuse
State law requires that teachers,administrators, and other school personnel report suspected cases of abuse,abandonment,
or neglect to the DCF Hotline at 800-96-ABUSE.
Communication Between Home and School
Communication is essential for parents and staff members to promote outstanding student achievement. Report cards are
sent home quarterly and Interim Progress Reports are sent home once during the middle of each grading period. Parents
may view their student's current academic status and attendance through PowerSchool. Parents in need of PowerSchool
login information or any other PowerSchool assistance should contact the main office.
Contagious Conditions,Including Covid,Pediculosis(HEAD LICE) and Eve Infections
Students with contagious ailments or conditions will be quarantined on campus until the parent is able to arrange for the
student's departure from school. Prior to returning to class,the school nurse must clear the student.
Deliveries to Students
Maintaining a safe,uninterrupted learning environment is a priority. Deliveries for students will be accepted during the
school day only from those who are on the student's emergency contact list.Food deliveries will be held in the main
office until the student picks up the delivery during lunch.All other items may be picked up by the student during class
change.
Discipline Procedures
The DSAHS disciplinary program is designed to protect the rights of all DSAHS community members and to establish a
safe,well-ordered environment where students and teachers can attain peak academic,extracurricular, and athletic
success.Mutual respect,law-abiding conduct,good manners,and positive interactions are essential. School authorities
will hold students and parents accountable for any action that interferes with the learning process, creates a disruption,or
contributes to a hostile environment for any member of the DSAHS community.
DSAHS must have documentation that every student and parent/guardian has had a chance to read the Code of Student
Conduct.All parents/guardians must return the page acknowledging the Miami-Dade County Public School's Code of
8
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Student Conduct manual,which requires a signature. In addition to the M-DCPS manual,we at DSAHS have created this
addendum.
Parent& Student Contracts: Included in each student's registration packet are a Parental Contract and a Student
Contract.A parent/guardian must sign the Parental Contract agreeing to the terms therein. Each student is required to sign
the Student Contract agreeing to the terms therein,including the Miami-Dade County Code of Student Conduct,the
DSAHS Addendum to the M-DCPS Code of Student Conduct and the DSAHS Dress Code.Failure to comply with the
terms of the Student Contract may result in the following:
A. Lunch Detention
B. After School Detention
C. Suspension
D. Recommendation for Expulsion
Each teacher will establish appropriate procedures for discipline in his/her classroom based on these guidelines. The
following list is not all-inclusive:
A. Students are expected to respect the authority of school personnel which includes but is not limited to
administration,teachers, staff, and substitutes.
B. Malicious or careless destruction of school property results in the replacement,repair or payment for damages
by the student or his/her parents. The placement of stickers on school property is forbidden.
C. Students shall help keep the school clean at all times.
D. Items that may disrupt the learning environment,including but not limited to water pistols,matches,lighters,
vape pens,vape cartridges,vape chargers,weapons,look-alike weapons,or items that could be used as
weapons are not permitted at school.
E. No items that display images or slogans referring to drug culture or alcohol,or display profane,abusive or
slang language.
F. There is zero tolerance for aggression,drugs,or alcohol at school. Students that push,hit,bite,kick,harass,
bully or use the internet in a negative way will be assigned an appropriate consequence,up to and including
suspension,referral to law enforcement, and recommendation for dismissal from the school.
G. Each teacher may take disciplinary action to correct a student who disrupts a normal classroom activity,who
is disrespectful, disobedient,uses abusive or foul language,violates school rules,or interferes with the
learning of any student.
H. Disciplinary action taken at DSAHS shall be in accordance with the regulations and procedures established by
the school and the Miami-Dade County Public School's Code of Student Conduct.
Teacher and Staff Interventions: Severe offenses will result in administrative referrals and consequences. Interventions
that may be utilized by school staff include verbal warning,phone call to parent,behavioral contract,referral to
administration,mediation/conflict resolution, and a parent conference.
Administrative Interventions and Definitions; The following list provides a written description of the disciplinary
interventions that may be assigned to a student who is repeatedly tardy to class or commits a behavior infraction.
A. After-School Detention or Lunch Detention
B. Confiscation of cell phones,electronics,or any items that may cause damage or disruption.
C. Loss of Privilege(s): revocation of the right to participate in school activities.
D. Suspension: In School Suspension(ISS)requires students to report to a supervised location other than class.
E. Out of School Suspension(OSS)is the exclusion of a student from school attendance and school activities.
F. Parent Contact/Conference: Phone calls,letters,meetings,emails.
G. Referral to Student Services and/or Mental Health Professional: school-based counseling aimed at improving
student behavior.
H. Restitution or Repair: payment or repair for damages to property.
L Threat Assessment: multidisciplinary assessment used to validate a verbal,nonverbal or written threat by a
student. Student and parent interviews are conducted,if necessary.
J. Time out: a disciplinary action that allows the student time to reflect and refocus.It can be given in the classroom,
in the office or in another classroom.
9
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Levels of Disciplinary Action: The Don Soffer Aventura High School staff works diligently to provide an appropriate
learning environment for all students.Nonetheless,at times students may become disruptive,talkative,disrespectful,etc.
To manage minor offenses,teachers and administrators will work collaboratively to implement a Progressive Discipline
Plan and continue to implement the following alternatives to suspensions. The seriousness of the offense,academic
placement,attitude,pattern of misconduct,and degree of student cooperation, and any other circumstances will be
considered in determining actions. The levels of behaviors are listed below:
A. Level I Behaviors: Acts that disrupt the orderly operation of the classroom, school function,extra-curricular
activities or approved transportation.
B. Level II Behaviors: More serious than Level I because they significantly interfere with learning and/or the well-
being of others.
C. Level III Behaviors: More serious that Level II because they endanger health and safety,damage property,
and/or cause serious discipline to the learning environment. These behaviors require School Police involvement.
D. Level IV Behaviors: More serious acts of unacceptable behavior than Level III. They seriously endanger health
and well-being of others and/or damage property. These behaviors require School Police involvement.
E. Level V Behaviors: The most serious acts of misconduct and violent actions that threaten life. These behaviors
require School Police involvement.
Please refer to the Miami-Dade County Public School's Code of Student Conduct regarding the Range of Corrective
Strategies for Level I—Level V behaviors.
Dismissal
Students must leave school grounds immediately upon dismissal unless participating in an approved after school activity
(athletics,clubs,detention). Parents must wait for their student(s)in the parking lot and must comply with the established
traffic pattern.As a reminder,there is no supervision for students after 3:45pm,unless the students are involved in a
school-sponsored activity while on campus.
Only individuals listed on the Emergency Contact Card will be allowed to pick-up students from school.Please update
information when changes occur.Valid photo identification will be required of all individuals' picking-up students. If
someone arrives at the school to seek the release of a student and the person's name is not on the emergency contact card
or the person does not have valid photo identification,the student will not be released.
To avoid having the school become involved in personal family conflicts,parents or guardians should submit to school
authorities a copy of any legal documents that indicate who has legal access to the student and his/her records during
school hours. In the absence of legal documentation,school officials will provide access only to those individuals whose
names appear on the student's data card.Failure to provide the school with legal documentation outlining visitation rights
will result in any parent listed on the birth certificate being permitted to pick-up a student.Friends and strangers will be
denied access to a student without verified parental consent.
Dress Code/School Attire/Uniforms
Many studies have linked productivity and conduct to attire. Our Dress Code requires that students wear DSAHS polos or
sweatshirts,as well as uniform joggers,pants,skorts,or shorts purchased from Chai Tees,the DSAHS uniform vendor; or
attire earned as a result of being on the honor roll or a member of a DSAHS team or club.
Students are invited to participate in Dress-Down Fridays. On these days, school-appropriate attire is required:
Undergarments may not be visible;hoodies,tank tops, and ripped jeans are prohibited;tops must cover the belly and
back; shorts and skirts must be hemmed and within 8"of knee; human images on clothing must be appropriately clothed;
clothing with words,pictures or symbols that are offensive or promote the use of drugs,alcohol,tobacco, or any
prohibited activity may not be worn on campus or at school activities.
Dress code violations must be corrected before students may attend class.Absences due to dress code violations are
unexcused.Additional disciplinary consequences will be assigned to egregious offenders.
Here are additional guidelines regarding attire and appearance:
10
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
• Hair must be neat,clean, and may not block view or be a distraction to learning. Hair that administration deems
to be distracting to learning will not be allowed.
• No hats,hoodies,headbands, scarves,or bandanas may be worn,unless there is a religious exemption.
• Students must wear closed shoes(toe and heel) at all times. Sandals,flip flops, slippers, slides, and shoes with
metal tips,cleats,wheeled shoes,pointed, or steel toes may not be worn.
• Students may not wear apparel that is immodest or offensive on campus or at any school function.
• Spiked accessories or other accessories deemed by administration as potentially injurious or inappropriate may
not be worn.
Please Note: There may be additional dress code issues, according to the judgement of DSAHS administration,which
require attention and earn disciplinary action.
Dual Enrollment
Students are encouraged to enroll in dual enrollment,a cost-free opportunity to earn college credit at Miami Dade College
during summer sessions. This is especially worthwhile for students able to earn college credit in another language or in
technology classes not offered at DSAHS. Interested students should see Ms.Nicholson.
Emergencies
Emergency situations and communications: As we go through the school day,there could be a number of reasons to
limit hallway movement within our school building or even restrict all access into or out of the building.A lock down
does not automatically mean your student is in danger.Lock downs are used in an abundance of caution to assure our staff
and students are secure.
Our first priority during a lock down of any type is to secure the building and make sure all everyone is safe. As we are
assessing the situation,we are not able to immediately call parents during this time. Law enforcement is immediately
involved when placing the school on a Code Red lockdown. We must follow all directions from the local police at that
time and they may ask us not to share any information to be sure we do not hinder the investigation. During a lockdown,
no one is permitted in or out of the building, so parents should not come to the school to pick up their children unless they
are advised to do so.
Possible reasons for lock downs:
• Power outage
• Plumbing/water issues
• Weather issues(such as severe lightning and thunderstorms, tomado watches and warnings)
• Facility/maintenance issues
• Suspicious activity in the community
• Medical issue that requires emergency transportation
• Rumors of threats/or a threat on campus
• Any actual emergency
This list is not all-inclusive. We understand lock downs can be troubling,especially to students.Although we know
students may text you during a lock down with inaccurate information. Please trust that we will give you accurate and up-
to-date information as quickly as possible.
Family Rights and Privacy Act
The revised Family Rights and Privacy Act became a Federal law in November 1974. The intent of this law is to protect
the accuracy and privacy of student educational records. Without your prior consent,only you and authorized individuals
having legitimate educational interests will have access to your student's educational records. In special instances,you
may waive this right of access to allow other agencies working with your student to have access to those records.
11
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Field TriM
As a learning experience,teachers may plan field trips. Parents may be asked to assist the teacher as chaperones. Parents
serving in this capacity may not have other students accompany them. Parents who are officially selected to be chaperones
may count their hours on the field trip as volunteer hours.All chaperones must go through the Chaperones approval
process as per M-DCPS. Parents serving as chaperones for students on overnight field trips must also be fingerprinted and
background checked per the Jessica Lunsford Act.
Participation in field trips is a privilege. Students may be excluded from participation in any trip for reasons relating to
behavior or conduct. Students who fail to follow instructions will be given an appropriate consequence upon return to
school. If a student is suspended,that student may be excluded from participating field trips or other school events for an
extended period of time. If a student is currently serving a term of suspension,he or she will be excluded from attending a
field trip or participating in a school-related activity.
Students participating on the field trip are required to ride on the charter bus with their classmates. Parents attending the
field trip may not sign their own student(s)out from the school at the end of the scheduled field trip. Students who do not
ride the bus to the field trip location will be marked absent from school for that day.
Early dismissal from a field trip site is not permitted.Field trips must be paid through the MySchoolBucks.Com app. Only
DSAHS students and approved chaperones will be able to attend DSAHS field trips.
FortifyFL.Com
All members of our school community are encouraged to report any potential threat or criminal activity.FortifyFL.Com
provides an online, anonymous reporting option that will immediately alert law enforcement and DSAHS administration.
Governing Board
The DSAHS Governing Board is comprised of the Aventura Mayor,City Commissioners,and the City Manager.
Communication to the Board should be conducted through the City Manager.For additional information regarding our
Governing Board click the link on our school website.
Grading
Teachers use a variety of assessments to record an average of at least one grade per week. Grades,progress updates in
PowerSchool,reports on state assessments, standardized testing results,parent conferences, and student conferences serve
as the primary means of communicating progress and achievement.A student's academic grade reflects the teacher's
assessment of the student's mastery of taught standards.
Cheating and plagiarism: Students who cheat or commit plagiarism will receive a behavioral consequence. The student
will be required to complete graded activity to replace the zero earned as a result of the cheating or plagiarism. To receive
credit for the makeup assignment,the student will be required to take a different assessment or redo the assignment during
a supervised after school study hall session within five days of the offense.
Late submissions,makeup tests,and exam retakes for honors and regular classes. Students will not be academically
penalized for turning in an assignment or making up a quiz or test within a reasonable time (generally before the on-time
assignments are graded and returned to students).Here are additional guidelines:
• Assignments for which extended time is allotted may be lengthened and the requirements increased due to the
extra preparation time allotted.
• The teacher may require that the makeup assignment or exam is completed under supervision after school.
• A behavioral consequence may be assigned for not submitting the assignment on time. Punctuality will impact
citizenship grades.
• If a student seeks to retake an exam or quiz,the teacher may require the student to attend a study session or
complete a preparation assignment prior to the retake.
12
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
• Late submissions,makeup tests, and exam retakes should be completed within five school days from the time the
grade on the original assessment was communicated to the student.
• Assignments completed with fidelity should receive no less than 50% credit if submitted prior to the final date
work is due each quarter,established as the fifth school day before the quarter ends.
Late submissions,makeup tests,and exam retakes for AICE and AP classes: To reflect the academic rigor and
standard required by AICE and AP classes,the late work and makeup requirements are aligned to match the collegiate
expectations:
• Mastery work for AP and AICE classes will have a firm due date,published on Schoology at least three school
days in advance.
• Late assignments should be made up as soon as possible,with a 10%drop in the grade each day after the initial
due date, or due date that is reestablished due to absence(s).
• Absent students should be permitted two makeup days for every day of excused absence to take missed tests or
submit assignments.For assignments and tests made up after the reestablished date,the grade reduction should be
applied as detailed in the above bullet.
• Students with avoidable unexcused absences must take missed tests and make up assignments within two days of
returning to school.After two school days,the grade reduction should be applied as detailed in the second bullet,
above.
• Assignments completed with fidelity should receive no less than 50% credit if submitted prior to the final date
work is due each quarter,established as the fifth school day before the quarter ends.
• If a student fails to submit an assignment or make up a test before the final date work is due each quarter,the
student will earn a zero for that graded assignment or test.
• Teachers may allow extra time,retake opportunities, and more flexible grading for students experiencing extreme
setbacks due to severe health issues,a family or personal crisis,etc... These instances will be managed case by
case.
Here are guidelines for grading performance and reporting student progress:
Grade and Percentage Point Value Honors Course AP or AICE Course
Point Value Point Value*
A- 89.5-100% 4 5 6
B - 79.5-89.4% 3 4 5
C -69.5-79.4% 2 3 4
D-59.5-69.4% 1 1 1
F—0-59.4% 0 0 0
Note that the point value for each class is used to calculate each student's weighted grade point
average and rank. For instance, if Dalton has straight A's in unweighted courses,Mia has straight B's
in all Honors courses, and Devin has all C's in AICE classes,Dalton,Mia,and Devin will each have
a cumulative grade point average of 4.0, and the same rank.
*Students who do not take or based on administrative judgement,do not make a reasonable effort to
ass an AICE or AP exam will not receive this added weight.
Determining annual grades for high school students: In authorized annual courses,the final grade is determined by
assigning the "Point Value"on the chart above to every quarter score, dividing by 4, and rounding up if the value ends in
a.5.A teacher may administer a cumulative assessment at the end of each nine-week grading period. The value of the
assessment may not exceed 5%of the grade for each nine-week grading period. In secondary courses with mandatory
Florida End of Course (EOC)assessments,the EOC score is 30%of the final course grade.
To pass an annual course, students in grades 9-12,must earn a minimum of 4 grade points, and 2 of these points must be
earned in the second semester. If the average annual grade would have been a D or better,the principal may approve for
the average grade to be awarded and the second semester four point rule to be disregarded.
13
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Citizenship Grades: Effort grades are utilized to convey the teacher's evaluation to students and their parents. These
grades are independent of academic grades. In assigning an effort grade,the teacher must consider the student's potential,
study habits, and attitude.
Four Citizenship grades are used to reflect effort in grades 9-12:
• A Citizenship grade of"E" indicates excellent citizenship.
• A Citizenship grade of"S" indicates satisfactory citizenship.
• A Citizenship grade of"N" indicates needs improvement in citizenship.
• A Citizenship grade of"U" indicates unsatisfactory citizenship.
Grade Point Average(GPA): Guidelines for interpreting students' grades with respect to grade point average are provided
in School Board Rule 6Gx-13-S5B-1.061. Grade point averages(GPA)impact high school graduation status;eligibility to
participate in interscholastic extracurricular activities;awards and recognition program participation;membership in
honor societies;college admissions and scholarship opportunities.
Grievance Procedure
If a student or his/her parents feel they have a grievance or complaint,they should do the following:
• The student should set an appointment with the teacher to discuss.
• If not resolved,the student should address with the student's dean.
• The next step towards resolution would be to address the concern with the principal.
• It the issue needs additional attention,the student and parent should call Rachel Windler Freitag,the
CSUSA South Florida Deputy Director,rwindlerfreitag(acharterschoolsusa.com.
• If still unresolved,the parent and student should contact Ms.Merchant,Governing Board Liaison,(305)
466-8008. If Ms.Merchant does not resolve the concern, she will provide guidance regarding the next step.
Homework
The faculty and administration at Don Soffer Aventura High School recognize regular,purposeful homework as an
essential component of the instructional process in school.Homework is an integral factor in fostering the academic
achievement of students and in extending school activities into the home and the community.Homework assignments
should be reflected in the gradebook as practice,not mastery.
Honor Roll
Students who make the honor roll will be celebrated each quarter at a recognition ceremony during the school day the
week report cards are distributed. The following criteria must be met to achieve honor roll status at DSAHS.
• Principal's Honor Roll: Academic Grades: > 5.0 weighted GPA or straight A's
• Superior Honor Roll: Academic Average: >3.5 weighted GPA,no grade lower than a C
Illness
The importance of regular attendance cannot be over-emphasized,but students should not be sent to school when they are
ill. Students will be sent home if they have symptoms of any contagious ailment. In order for a student to return to school,
he/she should be fever-free without fever reducing medication, and without diarrhea,nausea,congestion,or a productive
cough for at least 24 hours.The school nurse must be notified in writing of any student's chronic illness(i.e.,asthma,
diabetes,heart conditions,or seizures,etc.). Please update Emergency Contact Information when changes occur.
Immunizations
Florida law requires that all students meet requirements for immunizations or have an exemption on file prior to attending
classes. Please contact our school nurse if you have any questions regarding immunizations.
14
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Iniury
An accident report will be completed and filed for everyday accidents. The procedures listed below will be followed for
an injured student:
• Teachers will send the student to the office if the injury is minor.
• Teachers will notify the office if the student is unable to be moved.
• School personnel will administer basic first aid.
• The parent(s)will be called, and the injury described.For minor injury,the parent
will make the decision about retrieving the student from the school. Emergency contact persons will be called if
parent cannot be reached.
• Emergency Services will be called for critical injuries that require the type of
care that school personnel cannot offer,and the parent or emergency contact will be notified.
Instructional Books,Equipment,Materials, and Supplies
All textbooks needed by students for school and home learning assignments are furnished by the school. The textbooks
issued for student use become the responsibility of the student and/or parent and must be returned at the end of the year in
the same condition in which they were issued.Any damaged or lost books must be paid for before another book is issued.
Any student who has not paid for a lost book,or any other financial obligation(s),will have the unpaid expenses added to
the cost of non-academic activities such as the prom or homecoming.
Students must turn in the textbooks on the day indicated by the teacher at the end of the school year or upon withdrawing
from the school.Failure to do so will result in financial obligations being assigned to the student to cover the replacement
cost of the unretumed textbooks.
Laptops and Tablets
Each student will have an approved laptop or tablet,which must be brought to school every day. Examples include a
laptop(PC or Mac),Android tablet,or Wad. Students may register a personal device if the device is approved and
prepared by the Technology Specialist. Students who do not register a personal device will receive an Wad or upgraded
device if the student has a qualifying class. Personal devices that are not approved and prepared by our Technology
Specialist will not be permitted on campus during school. Students who bring unapproved devices will receive
disciplinary consequences.
Electronic devices and cell phones are subject to search by an administrator if there is reasonable suspicion the device
contains evidence regarding a disciplinary infraction,threat to any member of our school community,or criminal offense.
All users will be expected to follow the Acceptable Use Policy when utilizing a device and/or when using the school's
network. Disciplinary measures will be implemented in accordance with the Miami-Dade County Public School's Code of
Student Conduct for any student who fails to abide by the Acceptable Use Policy.
Medication
The administering or dispensing of any medicines(including non-prescription medication)to students by school
employees without specific written authorization by the physician&parents of the student is forbidden. If it is absolutely
necessary that the student take medication in school,a completed Physician's Form must be submitted to the school nurse.
The parent may come to the school to administer medication personally.A Physician's Form may be obtained from the
main office. Students are not allowed to have any medication(not even over the counter medication)in their possession
while at school or any school event. Parents must pick-up and drop-off medicine in the office. Students are responsible to
come to the office at the appropriate time to ask for their medication.
Parent Teacher Cooperative (PTC)
The partnership between the student's home and school support network is essential for student success. The PTC goal is
to enhance engagement of all school community members. This will be done through supporting student club,committee,
15
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
and team participants, club sponsors,and team coaches in recruiting community member participation in specific
activities.
Parent Volunteer Hours
Each year,one parent per student household is required to volunteer for 20 hours for the 1st student and 30 volunteer hours
for two or more students. These hours should be entered by parents through PowerSchool.For assistance with this
process,please call the main office.
Attending school functions,such as award assemblies, school plays,intramural and interscholastic athletic competitions,
and school community service events are great ways to promote school spirit and earn volunteer hours. Time spent writing
specific,encouraging notes to teachers and other staff members also qualifies for volunteer service hours.
In accordance with our charter and with state policy,we may not accept monetary donations in lieu of monetary donations
or any other parental obligations.However,parents will receive volunteer hours for time spent shopping,preparing, and
delivering donations or supportive cards that benefit members of our school community.
The School Volunteer Program at DSAHS is responsible for electronic registration,background checks, and the training
of volunteers.Any individual interested in volunteering at DSAHS must present a current driver's license.
Parents are not permitted to volunteer in classrooms and must be under the direct supervision of a staff member when
volunteering on campus or at events with students in attendance.
Parking on Campus for Students
Only students with current DSAHS parking permits are allowed to park in the DSAHS or Waterways Park parking lot
during school hours. Students who park on campus without a parking pass will earn disciplinary consequences, and
unauthorized cars may be towed at the owner's expense. The cost of an annual parking pass is$95.
Parking passes will be issued based on a random selection process in order of seniority by grade.Having a parking pass is
a privilege. To qualify for the parking pass lottery, students must be on track to graduate (have a minimum unweighted
GPA of 2.0)and,for the preceding or current quarter,meet the following criteria:
1) No more than 5 absences in any one class
2) No more than 5 tardies in any one class
3) No more than one in-school suspension
4) No out-of-school suspension
It is anticipated that parking permit holders will demonstrate appropriate responsibility and judgement.However,this
privilege will be revoked or suspended for lack of adherence to the following guidelines:
1) Students operating a vehicle on school grounds must possess a valid Florida Driver's License.
2) The student's vehicle must have a valid Florida Registration and be covered by the insurance required by Florida
law. Proof of valid insurance and registration must be provided for the application to be accepted.
3) Vehicles operated on school grounds must be in safe operating condition.
4) Denial or revocation of a parking permit may result if students exhibit one or more of the following:
a. Having more than 10 class absences,more than 10 class tardies,more than one in-school suspension,or
one out-of-school suspension during a semester.
b. Unpaid fees or obligations.
c. Parking in a spot that does not match the decal.
d. Leaving school grounds without permission.
e. Allowing use of the permit by a driver other than the driver to whom the pass is assigned.
f Failure to abide by traffic patterns,driving in a careless or unsafe manner.
g. Failure to have a decal properly displayed on the windshield.
h. All cars are subject to search and seizure while parked on campus if there is reasonable suspicion that the
car contains any of the illicit items listed below.Failure to comply will result in immediate loss of driving
privilege,additional consequences, and a referral to law enforcement.
i. Having any of the following items in the car: drug,alcohol,intoxicant,tobacco-related product,
paraphernalia,vape device,vape cartridge,rolling papers,pipes,matches,alcoholic beverage containers
16
Don SofferAventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
(empty or full),weapon or item that may be used as a weapon including bat,blade,brass knuckles,knife,
chain,tear gas,pepper spray; a gun of any sort including,but not limited to air gun,bb gun,paintball gun,
pellet gun, staple gun, spear gun,or toy gun.
j. Failure to park in the assigned parking space that correlates to the parking placard number.
k. Transporting a non-student,(any person,other than a guardian or parent,who is not an active DSAHS
student)to school during the school day without administrative pre-approval.
1. Leaving campus during the school day without administrative pre-approval.
in. Having a student in the registered car during that student's school day.
n. Using a phone while driving on campus,driving over 10 mph on campus,driving in a manner that could
jeopardize safety,create a disruption,or damage property.
o. Displaying a flag,banner,poster, sticker,or other item that is deemed by administration as inappropriate
or potentially disruptive.
5) Students are not permitted to remain in their vehicles or in the parking area after arriving on campus.
6) Students may also not enter the parking area during the school day without administrative approval.
7) Don Soffer Aventura High School,the City of Aventura, and the School Board of Miami-Dade shall not be held
responsible for damage to vehicles or theft of valuables in cars on school property.
This form must be accompanied by three documents. 1)a photocopy of your driver's license,2)a photocopy of the valid
and up-to-date Florida Registration for the vehicle listed on this application,and 3)a photocopy of the valid and up-to-
date Insurance Card for the vehicle listed on this application. Please attach all three documents to this signed agreement.
Positive School Culture
All students and school employees deserve an educational setting that is safe,orderly, and free from harassment and
bullying.Bullying and harassment,as defined below are prohibited. Our school complies with the Jeffrey Johnston Stand
Up for All Students Act,and Florida Statute 1006.13,the policy of zero tolerance for crime and victimization.
Bullying,including cyberbullying,is the systematic and chronic inflicting of physical hurt or psychological distress on
one or more people. This may be done through a pattern of unwanted and repeated written,verbal,or physical behaviors,
including threatening,insulting,dehumanizing gestures,that are severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating,
hostile,or offensive environment;cause discomfort or humiliation;unreasonably interfere with the individual's school
performance or participation;and may include a power differential.
Pupil Proeression Plan
Don Soffer Aventura High School abides by the Student Progression Plan for Miami-Dade County Public Schools
regarding academic support and enrichment opportunities for our students.For further information,please reference our
Program of Study on the DSAHS website.
Registration Requirements
All enrolled students have been randomly selected for admission in an automated lottery process conducted through the
Charter Schools USA enrollment portal. Top priority is given to students who have lived in Aventura for at least one full
year during the open enrollment period at the start of the calendar year.Here is the link for interested families:
https://csusa.schoolmint.net/welcome
Report Card Distribution
Report cards will be sent home with the student for Quarters 1,2, and 3 (see the school calendar for report card issue
dates). Parents will be notified when accurate final grades are accessible on PowerSchool. Report cards for Quarter 4 will
be mailed upon parent request.
17
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
School Activities and Clubs
Students at Don Soffer Aventura High School have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities,including
student government,clubs,honor societies, service clubs, school publications, and class activities. Club meetings are
scheduled at times when instruction is not taking place,before or after school,or during lunch. There will be a club rush
event during lunch in late September for students to learn about all of the club activities.Club information is also included
in the daily morning announcements.
School Hours
Main Office: 7:00am—4:OOpm
Student Arrival: 7:1Oam—7:30am Early Start(early-start classes begin at 7:34am)
8:00am— 8:25am Regular Start(regular-start classes begin at 8:30am)
Student Supervision: 7:00am— 3:45pm
School Safety and Security
Safety and security are of paramount importance to the CSUSA and DSAHS faculty and staff.As part of DSAHS's
commitment to being a premier school,it is our priority to provide a safe and secure learning environment. We all play an
important role in maintaining this positive atmosphere. Students powerfully impact school safety through respecting and
valuing differences;through not promoting or participating in violent interactions; not bullying,teasing,gossiping, or
sharing negative information about others.
Any student who feels threatened or endangered should immediately report these concerns to a teacher,administrator,or
our school resource officer.
Any student with knowledge of another student or visitor in possession of a weapon,who has a plan to harm someone
else,or is engaged or planning to self-harm should immediately share this information with a teacher,administrator,or the
school resource officer.
Most of us have learned from an early age that it is wrong to "snitch"or"tattle",but in some instances,doing so is
courageous and lifesaving. Breaking the "code of silence"is the first step in creating a positive school culture. If any
student is concerned that sharing such information will result in retaliation,the student may leave an anonymous note in
the office or go to GetFortifyFL.Com and make an anonymous report.
Emergency Operations Plans: Student and employee safety are a primary concern of the Miami-Dade County Public
School(M-DCPS) System and Don Soffer Aventura High School. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)was created to
provide school personnel with the necessary leadership skills and knowledge needed to respond to critical incidents or
other related emergencies that may occur in our schools/community. DSAHS has a site-specific plan to address all types
of critical incidents. This plan addresses the individual needs of the school and provides guidelines for devising
communication methods with staff, students,parents/guardians,and the media during a critical incident or an emergency.
Some protective action procedures include the evacuation of students/staff from the building(s),evacuation of the disabled
and,if necessary,the relocation of students/staff from the school campus,lockdown procedures and holding/dismissing
students during school and community emergencies.
Here are some important tips for parents/guardians to remember during a Critical Incident:
• Monitor media outlets for updates and official messages from DSAHS.
• Know that school personnel will be addressing the issue and not able to answer calls.An email will be sent via
School Messenger as soon as possible.
• If the school is on lockdown,wait until the lockdown is lifted before going to the school.
All DSAHS administrators and Aventura Police officers have been adequately trained in the school EOP and are prepared
to respond immediately during a critical incident or emergency to provide safety for all students.
Safety Drills: We will continue to ensure students and staff are prepared to quickly make their way to safety in the event
18
Don SofferAventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
of an emergency situation by conducting required numerous "safety drills"during the school year. Fire Drills,Lock-down
drills,Active Shooter Drills,Evacuation Drills,etc.
Emergency Evacuation: Your student's safety is a top priority.We conduct required monthly safety drills and practice
extreme weather responses. Should we need to evacuate the building,law enforcement officials will assist in determining
the location the students would be held. Students will be released when law enforcement officials confirm the threat is
mitigated, and administrators confirm conditions allow for safe departure. Students will only be released to those who
present proper identification confirming they are on the Emergency Contact Form.
For information during such an emergency,including the student pickup reunification plan,you may contact CSUSA at
954-202-3500. Local news stations may also be helpful is always helpful with disseminating information regarding
evacuations and procedures as well.
Screenings
In accordance with Florida Statute 381.0056(4), students participate in the following required health screenings: Growth
and development screening shall be provided,at a minimum,to students in grades 1, 3 and 6 and optionally to students in
grade 9. In addition,annual screening for at-risk indicators of social emotional concerns is conducted for newly enrolled
students and students in grades 1,4, 7, and 10.Any parents who desire to opt out of the screenings,indicated above,for
their student shall notify the school in writing.
Senior Privilege
Students qualify for senior privilege and be permitted to take six classes during senior year if they meet the following
criteria: Weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher or unweighted GPA of 3.0;Florida Department of Education testing requirements
for graduation met;20 credits have been earned;AICE Diploma coursework completed or on track to being completed
prior to graduation. Seniors who select Senior Privilege will be assigned to a no-credit study hall class during the privilege
period they select,either at the beginning or end of the day. During the privilege period, students are not required to be on
campus. Students who choose to be on campus during the privilege period must be in the main office or under the
supervision of a staff member.
Student Identification Cards
Student ID's will be distributed once student photos are completed. Students must have their ID's available for any
requesting staff member at all times when on campus and when attending school events.Failure to accurately identify
oneself will result in disciplinary action.
Student Information System
All parents will have access to the web-based PowerSchool,a tool to assist in your daily interaction with your student's
school life. This tool can be accessed from any computer with Internet access.All that is required is that you have the
correct web site address and a valid username and password.An email containing a link and login information for
PowerSchool will be sent to all DSAHS parents at the beginning of the school year.
Parents can get up-to-date grades,attendance,and tardy records while also having access to email teachers,view school
calendars, and see how their student is faring with the State Standards in each class and benchmark tests. It is very
important that you keep phone numbers,addresses, and contact information updated.
Student Scheduling
The administrative team schedules students based on a seven-step scheduling process designed to maximize achievement
and accommodate each student's educational needs and interests. These additional factors will be taken into
consideration: Teacher-assigned grades and feedback,standardized and formative assessments,as well as requirements for
a Florida high school diploma,Cambridge AICE diploma,AP Capstone diploma,college admission,NCAA participation,
19
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
and building an impressive professional resume. Students should share scheduling input and questions with their deans or
with the principal.
Student Records
Parents,guardians and students are protected by The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Florida Statutes
from individuals' access to information in students' educational records,and are provided the right to challenge the
accuracy of these records.These laws provide that without the prior consent of the parent,guardian or eligible student,a
student's records may not be released,except in accordance with the provisions listed in the above-cited laws.The laws
provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement,which include,but are not limited to,school officials with a
legitimate educational interest and lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders. Parents,guardians,or eligible students
have the right to inspect and review student records annually. Please contact the Main Office for more information about
this. Once a student reaches 18 years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education,the consent is
required from the student only,unless the student qualifies as a dependent under the law.
Student Rights
Students have the right to feel safe from hostile acts or threats. Threatening conduct, slurs,inappropriate innuendoes,
violent acts, or any conduct that contributes to a hostile environment will result in exclusion from participation in class
and school activities and disciplinary action. All students and employees will be treated with respect.All such offenses
will be reported to law enforcement.
If any parent has a conflict with a student other than their own student,the parent should request to have a DSAHS staff
member address the matter. Parents and all other DSAHS community members may not engage in an adversarial
interaction with a student or other member of our campus or at any school event.
Suspension and/or Expulsion
In accordance with the Miami Dade County Public School's Code of Conduct,the principal may recommend student
expulsion to the Miami Dade County Superintendent of Schools for any of the expellable offense. Prior to suspension or
expulsion,the student has the right to a fair hearing as outlined by the Code of Conduct.
Teacher Conferences
Parents may request a conference by emailing the teacher directly. In the event you do not receive a response by the next
workday,please contact the main office and ask that the teacher be notified of your request for a conference.
Trespassing
Students be on the school campus after school hours only if properly supervised.Violators may be subject to disciplinary
action and legal action for trespassing. Students on campus while on suspension or expulsion are subject to additional
disciplinary action and arrest for criminal trespass. Please note that general supervision is not permitted before 7:OOam or
after 3:45pm.
If anyone is seen in the building without a visitor sticker or appears as if they do not belong on campus,this should be
reported immediately to the nearest faculty or staff member. Do not,for any reason,open the doors to the school for
anyone. The individual should be directed to report to the Main Office.
Severe Weather
Weather conditions such as lightening alerts,tornado warnings, and severe storm advisories may impact the school
schedule. If weather conditions result in school being closed or the arrival or dismissal schedule being altered,an alert will
be sent to parents through the School Messenger email system.
20
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
Valedictorian and Salutatorian Recoinition
The valedictorian and salutatorian will have the privilege of presenting the valedictory and salutatory speeches at
commencement if they meet the DSAHS National Honor Society meritorious requirements to be in good
standing. Students must attend DSAHS all four years to be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian recognition.
The cumulative weighted grade point average rounded to the one-hundredth's place for all classes taken at DSAHS will
determine the valedictorian and salutatorian after third quarter grades are entered senior year.Here are additional
considerations impacting valedictorian and salutatorian calculations:
• In the event a student takes more than seven classes at DSAHS in a year,the top seven grades earned will be
counted towards the calculation for valedictorian and salutatorian.
• Grades earned during the first three quarters of senior year will be averaged and factored as annual grades,equal
to the value of those earned in grades nine,ten, and eleven.
• Classes not taken at DSAHS, such as those taken virtually,in middle school,through dual enrollment, and
through external academic programs,will not be included in this calculation.
• If there is a tie for valedictorian,no salutatorian will be named. If there is no tie for valedictorian, and more than
one student ties for the honor of salutatorian,co-salutatorians will be recognized.
Visitors
All visitors,including parents,must report to the office upon arrival during school.For the safety and protection of
students,parents and visitors must present a valid driver's license at the front desk. Parents will also sign in and out, state
whom they are visiting, state the purpose of the visit,and obtain administrative approval before proceeding to any
location other than the main office during school hours. The School Resource Officer will address any concerns regarding
this requirement.
21
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
AMemberofthe CHARTERSCHOOLS, FarnilyofSehools
{USA
PARENT OBLIGATION
I(We)the parent(s)/guardian(s)of have read and agree to abide by the Code of
Conduct and the Dress Code of Don Soffer Aventura High School(DSAHS). I(We)understand that my(our)child is a Miami Dade
County student.
WHEREAS,in order to provide my(our)student with a unique educational opportunity;
WHEREAS,by enrolling my(our)student at DSHAS is a decision of my(our)personal choice and not a privilege;
WHEREAS,my(our)desire to enroll my(our)child DSAHS is premised upon my(our)desire to become an active partner in the education of
my(our)child;
NOW,THEREFORE,in consideration of the foregoing:
1. As a parent of a student at Don Soffer Aventura High School,my(our)commitment is to abide by the following resolutions:
A. To recognize and embrace my role as the primary educator of my child.
B. To participate in the parenting workshops as provided by the school.
C. To attend all conferences scheduled with any member of the Don Soffer Aventura High School staff.
D. To participate in the Parent Volunteer Program for 20 hours for the first child and 10 hours for all other additional
children.Recording of volunteer hours will be done on PowerSchool by the parent for credit. '/2 of the hours must be
completed before Winter Break and the second'/2 by May 1st
E. To provide transportation to and from school for my child. I understand that if I am late picking up my child,Don
Soffer Aventura High School is not responsible for my child's safety. If my child is continually tardy or absent,I understand
that for the benefit of my child's education,he/she may be required to transfer to a school that is more accessible for my
child.
F. To purchase uniforms for my child from the Don Soffer Aventura High School approved supplier and ensure that
my child is wearing the approved uniform daily.
G. To supply lunch,brought from home or purchased from the DSAHS cafeteria,each school day.
H. To be responsible for timely payment of any fees accrued to my account at the school.
L To participate in at least one of the many parent groups such as PTC,School Advisory Board,club or team booster.
2. To do the following things to enhance my (our)child's academic growth,I(we)agree to do the following:
A. To read and use the information sent home to keep parents informed of the academic topics to be studied in the classroom.
B. To provide a suitable time and place within the home for homework.
C. To assist my child in obtaining and regularly using a library card at the Public Library and allow for at least 60 minutes of homework
daily.
D. To limit television and video games and phone usage during the week and allow more time for reading,studying and family time.
E. To check my child's homework nightly.
As proud members of the Charter Schools USA family,we believe all parents should have a choice for their child's education,and all
children deserve access to a quality education.We look forward to sharing information with you regarding changes in legislation,or
other factors that could impact the educational environment or a parent's right to choose.We may call upon you to help us
communicate the importance of putting students first.To assist with the advocacy of school choice,you agree,by indicating below,to
allow for the licensing of your school related demographic data.
You may opt out by checking:No I do not want to participate. Thank you in advance for your support.
I(we)understand that participation in the school,as defined above,fulfills the mission of the school by enhancing my child's
education and the school community as a whole.I(we)understand that such participation is a contractual obligation to the school and
to my(our)child,and that failure or refusal to fulfill this obligation is incompatible with the school's mission.Therefore,a breach of
this obligation by you may impact your child's status with the school.
Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Date
Once this document is completed,please sign,scan,and email to DSilver(a,AventuraCharterHS.Org at your earliest
convenience.
22
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
10
AMemberofthe CHARTER SCHOOLS, Fau lyof5chooN
l A
Handbook Acknowledgement
Dear Parent,
Please complete, sign, scan, and email to DSilverkAventuraCharterHS.Org at your earliest convenience.
Thank you,
Dr. Geoff McKee, Principal
Student Name
I acknowledge that I have read the parent handbook. I agree to comply with the policies set forth in this handbook.
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
Once this document is completed,please sign,scan, and email to DSilver(i�AventuraCharterHS.Org at your
earliest convenience.
23
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
10
AMemberofthe CHART{E�RSSCHQQLS, Finayofschool
�A
Acceptable Internet Use Policy: Student and Parent Agreement
Student: Grade:
The Internet links thousands of computer networks around the world,giving Don Soffer Aventura High School students access to a
wide variety of computer and information resources.
Don Soffer Aventura High School does not have control of the information on the internet.Don Soffer Aventura High School and the
system administrators do not condone the use of such materials and do not permit usage of such materials in the school environment.
There are security systems and filters in place to prevent students from getting to unauthorized sites.If a student does access an
unauthorized site,it is a conscious selection and act and may result in the loss of Internet privileges.
Don Soffer Aventura High School specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its
Internet accounts.Your student will learn Internet communication skills including the following:email safety,downloading,files,
www,keyword searches,etc.
Student Guidelines: Students are expected to follow all guidelines stated below as well as those given orally by the staff and to
demonstrate ethical behavior in using the network.Care of Don Soffer Aventura High School facilities go hand in hand with using
computer hardware,software and the Internet in a responsible manner.Any actions that might harm computer equipment or software,
impair its effective use,or show disregard for the proper procedures set up for network access will not be tolerated.
1. Before use,all students will receive an overview of the of security and ethics involved in using the DSAHS network.
2. Students may not allow others to use their account name or their password.Doing so violates the Acceptable Use Policy.
3. Any action by a student that is determined by a teacher or a system administrator to constitute an inappropriate use Intemet at
Don Soffer Aventura High School or to improperly restrict or inhibit others from using and enjoying the Internet is a
violation of the Acceptable Use Policy.
4. Transmission of material,information or software in violation of any school district policy,or local,state or federal law is
prohibited and is a breach of the Acceptable Use Policy.
5. Any use of the Internet proxy services to circumvent network filters will result in suspension or loss of Internet privileges.
Violating the Acceptable Use Policy may result in restrictions or loss of network privileges,disciplinary or legal action including,but
not limited to,criminal prosecution under appropriate state and federal laws.In order to ensure smooth system operations,the Systems
Administrator has the authority to monitor all accounts.Every effort will be made to maintain privacy and security in this process.
Student Access Contract:
I understand when I am using the Internet or any other telecommunications environment,I must adhere to all rules of courtesy,
etiquette and laws regarding access and copying of information as prescribed by either Federal,State or Local law,Don Soffer
Aventura High School,Miami-Dade County Public Schools,and Charter Schools USA.
My signature below,and that of my parents,means that I agree to follow the guidelines of the Acceptable Use Policy for the Internet
at Don Soffer Aventura High School.
Student Name: Student Signature: Date:
Parent Approval Contract:Please review the above policy with your student and sign the consent form.If you would like more
information about DSAHS Internet accounts,please phone the main office.
As the parent of this student,I have read the Acceptable Use Policy for the Intemet for Don Soffer Aventura High School,I hereby
give my permission for my student to use the school Internet in accordance with this agreement.
Parent Name: Parent Signature: Date:
Once this document is completed,please sign,scan,and email to DSi1ver(&AventuraCharterHS.Or2 at y10arliest
convenience. AMemberdthe CHARTER SCHOOLS. Familyafschool
►U$A
24
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL POLICY PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION,
SEXUAL HARRASSMENT,AND OTHER FORMS OF HARASSMENT
I. Policy Against Discrimination
A. No person shall,on the basis of race,color,religion,gender,age,marital status,disability,political or
religious beliefs,national or ethnic origin,or sexual orientation be excluded from participation in,be denied
the benefits of,or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity,or in any
employment conditions or practices conducted by this School,except as provided by law.
B. The School shall comply with all state and federal laws,which prohibit discrimination and are designed to
protect the civil rights of applicants,employees,and/or students,or other persons protected by applicable law.
C. The School shall admit students to programs and classes without regard to race,color,religion,gender,age,
national or ethnic origin,marital status,disability or handicap or sexual orientation.
IL Policy Against Sexual Harassment or Other Forms of Harassment Prohibited by Law
A. The School desires to maintain an academic and work environment in which all employees,volunteers,and
students are treated with respect and dignity. A vital element of this atmosphere is the School's commitment
to equal opportunities and the prohibition of discriminatory practices. The School's prohibition against
discriminatory practices includes prohibitions against sexual harassment,or any other form of harassment
based upon a person's membership in a protected class and specifically prohibited by applicable state or
federal law. The School forbids sexual harassment,or any other form of illegal harassment,of any employee,
student,volunteer,or visitor. The School will not tolerate sexual harassment or any form of illegal harassment
by any of its employees,students,volunteers or agents.
B. The prohibition against discrimination including sexual and other forms of illegal harassment shall also apply
to non-employee volunteers who work subject to the control of school authorities, and to all vendors or
service providers who have access to School facilities.
III. Definition of Sexual Harassment
A. Prohibited sexual harassment includes,but is not limited to,requests for sexual favors,and other verbal,
visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
1. Submission to the conduct is explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of an individual's
employment,academic status,or progress.
2. Submission to or rejection of the conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or
academic decisions affecting the individual.
3. The conduct has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact on the individual's academic
performance or employment,unreasonably interfering with the individual's education or
employment,or creating an intimidating,hostile,or offensive educational or employment
environment.
4. Submission to or rejection of the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any decision
affecting the individual regarding any term or condition of employment,employment or academic
benefits,or services,honors,programs,or activities available at or through the school.
B. Types of conduct which are prohibited in the School and which may constitute sexual harassment include,but
are not limited to:
1. Graphic verbal comments about an individual's body or appearance.
2. Sexual jokes,notes, stories,drawings,pictures or gestures.
3. Sexual slurs,leering,threats,abusive words,derogatory comments or sexually degrading
descriptions.
4. Unwelcome sexual flirtations or propositions for sexual activity or unwelcome demands for sexual
favors,including but not limited to repeated unwelcome requests for dates.
5. Spreading sexual rumors.
6. Touching an individual's body or clothes (including one's own)in a sexual way,including,but not
limited to,grabbing,brushing against,patting,pinching,bumping,rubbing,kissing, and fondling.
7. Cornering or blocking normal movements.
25
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
8. Displaying sexually suggestive drawings,pictures,written materials,and objects in the educational
environment.
IV. Definition of Other Forms of Prohibited Harassment
A. Illegal harassment on the basis of any other characteristic protected by state or federal law is strictly
prohibited. This includes verbal or physical conduct that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an
individual because of his/her race,color,religion,gender,national origin,age,disability,marital status,
citizenship or sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law and that:
1. Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating,hostile or offensive work or academic
environment;
2. Has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual's work or academic performance; or
3. Otherwise,adversely affects an individual's employment or academic performance.
B. Examples of prohibited actions,which may constitute harassment include,but are not limited to,the
following:
1. Epithets, slurs or negative stereotypes;
2. Threatening,intimidating or hostile acts, such as stalking; or
3. Written or graphic material that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual or
group and that is placed on walls or elsewhere on the school premises or circulated in the workplace
or academic environment.
V. Retaliation Prohibited
A. Any act of retaliation against an individual who files a complaint alleging a violation of the School's anti-
discrimination policy and/or sexual or illegal harassment policy or who participates in the investigation of a
discrimination complaint is prohibited.
B. Retaliation may include,but is not limited to, any form of intimidation,reprisal or harassment based upon
participation in the investigation if,or filing a complaint of,discrimination.
VL Procedures for Filing Complaint of Discrimination, Sexual Harassment,or Other Form of Illegal Harassment
A. Procedures for Filing Complaints
1. Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against,or placed in a hostile environment
based on gender,marital status, sexual orientation,race,national origin,religion, age or disability by an
employee,volunteer,agent or student of the school should within sixty(60)days of alleged occurrence
file a written or oral complaint. The complaint should set forth a description of the alleged discriminatory
actions/harassment,the time frame in which the alleged discrimination occurred,the person or persons
involved in the alleged discriminatory actions, and any witnesses or other evidence relevant to the
allegations in the complaint.
2. The complaint should be filed with the school Principal. Complaints filed with the Principal must be
forwarded to CSUSA Employee Services within five(5)days of the filing of the complaint. If the
complaint is against the principal,the complaint may be filed directly with CSUSA Employee Services.
3. If the complaint is against CSUSA Employee Services,the Chief of Schools,or other member of the
School's Board,the complaint may be filed with the School Attorney.
B. Procedures for Processing Complaints
1. Complaints filed against persons other than the Chief of Schools or member of the School's Board:
a. Upon receipt of the written complaint by CSUSA Employee Services,CSUSA Employee Services
shall investigate or appoint an investigator to conduct an investigation of the allegations in the
complaint. The investigator shall interview the complainant and the accused; interview any witnesses
identified by the complainant,accused,or by other sources;take statements from all witnesses;and
review any relevant documents or other evidence.Upon completing a review of all evidence relevant
to the complaint,the investigator shall prepare a written summary of the investigation and make a
recommendation to CSUSA Employee Services as to whether there is reasonable cause to believe a
violation of the School's anti-discrimination policy has occurred. Copies of documents,evidence and
witness statements which were considered in the investigation must be sent to CSUSA Employee
Services along with the summary and recommendation.
26
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
b. If the complaint is against CSUSA Employee Services,the School Attorney shall appoint an
investigator,who shall conduct an investigation in the manner set forth in section VLB.I.a. (above).
c. The investigation, summary, relevant documents,witnesses' statements and recommendation should
be completed and forwarded to CSUSA Employee Services within thirty (30)days,or to the School
Attorney within thirty(30)days,if the complaint is against CSUSA Employee Services. CSUSA
Employee Services,or School Attorney,respectively,shall review the investigation summary,
evidence and recommendation,and determine within ten(10)days whether there is reasonable cause
to believe a discriminatory practice occurred.
d. If CSUSA Employee Services or School Attorney determines there is reasonable cause to believe a
violation of the nondiscriminatory policy occurred,he or she shall within ten(10)days provide notice
of the reasonable cause finding to the complainant and the accused. CSUSA Employee Services or
School Attorney shall then review the investigatory file,reasonable cause determination, and all
related documents and evidence,to the Chief of Schools.
e. If CSUSA Employee Services or School Attorney determines,after a review of the investigation,
summary,recommendation and other evidence,that there is no reasonable cause to believe a
discriminatory practice occurred,he or she shall provide within ten(10) days' notice of the finding of
no reasonable cause to the complainant and accused.
f. The complainant may request a no reasonable cause finding by CSUSA Employee Services or School
Attorney be reviewed by the Chief of Schools within ten(10)days of receipt of this notice. The
complainant shall provide a written statement detailing facts in support of his or her disagreement
with the determination. The complainant will also be given an opportunity to meet with the Chief of
Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney to present his or her position. The Chief of
Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney shall prepare a written memorandum
summarizing the content of the conference to be included in the complaint file. The Chief of Schools
shall within ten(10)days of receipt of the notice make a final determination as to whether there is
reasonable cause to believe a discriminatory practice occurred.
g. If review by the Chief of Schools is not timely requested,CSUSA Employee Services or School
Attorney's determination of no reasonable cause shall be final.
h. The accused may request,within ten(10)days of receipt of a notice of a finding of reasonable cause,
that the determination be reviewed by the Chief of Schools. The request must include a written
statement expressing the accused's position on the complaint and findings,and address any facts,
statements or evidence which he or she submits are inaccurate.The accused will be given an
opportunity to meet with the Chief of Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney to
present his or her position.The Chief of Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney
must within ten(10)days of receipt of the notice prepare a memorandum summarizing the content of
the meeting to be included in the complaint file.
i. After providing the opportunity for an informal hearing as referenced in section VLB.I.h. (above),the
Chief of Schools shall evaluate all the evidence,the investigation summary,recommendations and
findings,along with any input by the accused and complainant, and make a final determination as to
whether there is reasonable cause to support the complainant's allegations. He or she shall then
determine any necessary disciplinary,remedial,or other action.Notice of the final disposition of the
complaint and any disciplinary and/or remedial action shall within twenty(20)days of the informal
hearing be forwarded to the accused and the complainant and the Chairman of the School's Board,
and a copy of will be filed with and maintained in the office of Charter Schools USA Senior Director
of Human Resources.
2. Complaints against School Board Members.
a. Complaints against the School's Board Members shall be filed with the School Attorney. The School
Attorney will within twenty(20)days appoint an outside,independent investigator to conduct an
investigation and make a recommendation as to whether a discriminatory practice has occurred. It is
recommended,but not mandatory,that the investigator be an attorney familiar with federal and state
law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of a protected status.
b. The complainant and accused shall be interviewed by the outside investigator.Both shall provide
written lists of witnesses to be interviewed, and documents or other evidence to be reviewed as
relevant to the complaint. The investigator shall interview all witnesses identified by the complainant
or accused,in addition to witnesses with relevant knowledge which the investigator may discover
27
Don SofferAventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
from other sources. The investigator shall also review relevant documents and other evidence. The
investigator shall within twenty(20)days of receiving the complaint prepare a written summary of his
or her investigation,and a recommendation to the School Attorney as to whether there is reasonable
cause to believe that a discriminatory practice may have occurred.
c. If reasonable cause is recommended by the investigator against a School's Board Member,the
recommendation shall within twenty(20)days be forwarded to the Chairman of the DSAHS
Governing Board to determine if there is evidence that a misfeasance or malfeasance of office
occurred.The DSAHS Governing Board will be responsible for taking any necessary action in
accordance with applicable law with reference to an elected official.
d. A finding of no reasonable cause by the outside investigator,which is reviewed and confirmed by the
School Attorney, shall be final and a copy will be forwarded to the Chairman of the DSAHS
Governing Board. In compliance with Florida Statute,the investigation file shall become public
record and the School's Board Member shall answer to their constituency.
3. Penalties for confirmed Discrimination or Harassment
a. Student-A substantiated allegation of discrimination or harassment against a student shall subject
that student to disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Student Conduct.
b. Employee or Volunteer-A substantiated allegation of discrimination or harassment against an
employee may result in disciplinary actions including termination and referral to appropriate law
enforcement authorities.A volunteer shall be removed from service and a referral may be made to
appropriate law enforcement authorities.
4. Limited Exemption from Public Records Act and Notification of Parents of Minors
a. To the extent possible,complaints will be treated as confidential and in accordance with Florida
Statutes and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act(FERPA). Limited disclosure may be
necessary to complete a thorough investigation as described above. The School's obligation to
investigation and take corrective action may supersede an individual's right to privacy.
b. The parents of a person under the age of 18 who has filed a complaint of discrimination and/or
harassment shall be notified within three (3)days of receipt of a complaint.
DSAHS shall conspicuously post its Notice of Non-Discrimination and Non-Harassment and the name and telephone
number,Assistant Principal Pam Clappier, 786-481-3032,of the employee responsible for compliance with such policies
at its facilities subject to its discretion regarding placement.
CSUSA Employee Services
Charter Schools USA
800 Corporate Drive, Suite 700
Ft. Lauderdale,FL 33334
(954)202-3500
28
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
DON SOFFER 110
AVENTURA C US,A
_<_d�� HIGH SCHOOL
Digital Device Agreement
Thanks to generous supplemental funding from the City of Aventura and Charter Schools USA(CSUSA),we are able to
loan a device to each student. These devices remain the property of CSUSA,and are to be used strictly for schoolwork,
enhancing productivity,providing access to learning opportunities beyond the classroom,broadening research,and
fostering communication. Prior to receiving a device, students and their parents/guardians must sign the mandatory
Equipment Borrower Responsibility Form.
School rules apply to students when they are using the device.As students are responsible for their behavior in class and
on school grounds,they must also be responsible when using a CSUSA-owned device,regardless of the location. The
information and procedures found within this document apply to all digital devices used at DSAHS. Our teachers may
also set additional requirements for use in their respective classrooms.
Responsibility: As it states in the Equipment Borrower Responsibility Form, "In the event of loss or damage of any kind
to any item of equipment,the parent/guardian and student shall pay the cost to replace the same in good repair,condition,
and working order;or,if Charter Schools USA determines the equipment to be lost, stolen,destroyed,or damaged beyond
repair,you shall pay Charter Schools USA the book value of the equipment."
Safety and Security: Security and safety are a priority when using CSUSA-owned devices. It is important to note the
specific security/safety and acceptable use concerns that could exist and how those situations will be handled since the
device is being accessed both at on and off school grounds. DSAHS provides a secure,filtered and monitored
environment while students are in school and using the CSUSA computer network.
Software Licensing: The CSUSA-owned device will be configured with a standard-suite of applications and programs that
are appropriate for student use along with State mandated safety applications. Software or applications for personal use,
such as entertainment and games, may not be installed on this device or any CSUSA-owned device.
Consequences of Misuse and/or Violation of the Provision of the Agreement: Inappropriate use of CSUSA-owned
devices on or around school property,in school vehicles and buses,and at school-sponsored activities may result in
disciplinary action. DSAHS jurisdiction to enforce student behavior and discipline policies shall apply whether the
inappropriate use or violation is at school or away from school.
Limitation of Liability: DSAHS shall not be responsible for and shall be held harmless from any damages suffered by
the student,including those arising from service interruptions,unauthorized use,loss of data,and exposure to potentially
harmful or inappropriate material or people.Use of the digital device and accessing the Internet or communication
technologies with this device is done at the Parent/Guardian/student's own risk. DSAHS specifically denies any
responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the Internet.
Compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act 2001 (CIPA): In accordance with the Children's Internet
Protection Act(CIPA,updated 2011)parent permission is required for students under 13 to use some online tools.Any
programs will be used for educational purposes only and all educational data will remain private.
Terms of use for CSUSA-owned devices:
1. The device is the property of CSUSA. The device shall only be used to access educational information and to promote
learning activities both at school and at home.Additionally, students shall not transmit or knowingly post their own or
other's personal information such as telephone numbers,home addresses,last name,email addresses,photos,or other
personal identifying information using CSUSA-owned devices. The CSUSA-owned device is only for the use of the
student to whom it is assigned.
29
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
2. Physical and virtual vandalism will not be tolerated.Any intentional act by a student that damages or interferes with
the appearance or performance of the CSUSA-owned device will be considered vandalism and will be subject to
school discipline and appropriate criminal or civil action. Students will be responsible for keeping their devices clear
of stickers or other items that might deface or damage the devices finish, screen,or other necessary components.
3. Cyber bullying is specifically prohibited. Students agree not to access, submit, send,publish,display,or print
inappropriate material,including ay impolite,abusive,defamatory,obscene,profane,abusive,threatening,offensive,
sexually oriented,or illegal material over the internet or CSUSA network.Any recipient of cyber bullying should
report the incident immediately to an administrator,teacher,or other staff member.
4. Any attempt to load and/or use software on the or to modify the software image loaded on the CSUSA-owned device
is strictly prohibited.
5. The use of CSUSA-owned devices is not private; students should not expect that files stored on or transmitted via this
device will be confidential.All digital transmissions are subject to inspecting and/or monitoring by DSAHS
employees and other officials.
6. This device has been set up specifically to be used on the CSUSA wireless network.
7. Students and their parent/guardians are financially responsible for the device in case of loss,theft,or damage from the
time the device is checked out until it is returned.
8. Students shall immediately report all malfunctions,damage,theft,or loss of a device to a classroom teacher or school
administrator at the school.
Please enter the information requested below and sign to acknowledge that you have read and understood the
terms of this Digital Device Agreement.
Student Name(please print): Student ID
Student Signature: Date:
Parent/Guardian Name (please print):
Parent/Guardian Signature: Date:
Once this document is completed,please sign,scan, and email to Milven AventuraCharterHS.Or atyour earliest
convenience.
30
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
DON SOFFER 1,0
AVENTURA c US,A
A$�HIGH SCHOOL
Contract for Borrowed Equipment
Student Information
Student(print)
Parent/Guardian(print)
Homeroom Teacher
Grade Level
Address
Telephone Number
Items Checked Out
Item # Description Replacement Price,Lost/Damaged Serial Number Date
IPAD $450
Dell Latitude $650
Macbook AIR $800
Charger $40
Protective Case $50
I acknowledge that I am financially responsible for the items assigned to my student in case of loss,theft,or damage from
the time the item is assigned to my student until my student returns the item. I also agree to return said materials
immediately upon request. The term "financial responsibility"means that the student shall use the equipment in a careful
and proper manner,and shall comply with all laws,Charter Schools USA policies,rules and regulations related to the
possession,proper use,and maintenance of the equipment, and all requirements of this form; and that the parent/guardian
and student assume and bear the entire risk of loss and damage to the equipment from any and every cause,unless
confirmed by a school technology specialist,the such loss or damage was not caused,in whole or in part,by misuse,
carelessness,or neglect.
In the event of loss or damage of any kind to any item of equipment,the parent/guardian and student shall pay the cost to
place the same in good repair,condition, and working order; or,if Charter Schools USA determines the equipment to be
lost, stolen,destroyed,or damaged beyond repair,you shall pay Charter Schools USA the book value of the equipment.
Student Name(please print):
Student Signature: Date:
Parent/Guardian Name (please print):
Parent/Guardian Signature: Date:
Once this document is completed,please sign,scan, and email to Milvef{a)AventuraCharterHS.Or atyour earliest
convenience.
For Administration Use Only
Authorized Name Signature Date
By
Date to be Returned: Date Returned:
31
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
DON SOFFER ,,
$,AVENTURA c USA
HIGH SCHOOL
Parental Rights in Education Policv
WHEREAS,The 2022 Florida Legislature passed House Bill 1557,Parental Rights in Education which Governor Ron DeSantis
signed into law on March 28,2022,with an effective date of July 1,2022.
WHEREAS,This Policy is to ensure the charter school governing board(the"Governing Board")will comply with the newly
amended Section 1001.42,Florida Statutes,relating to student welfare and procedures for notifying a student's parent if there is a
change in the student's services or monitoring related to the student's mental,emotional,or physical health or well-being and the
school's ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for the student.
WHEREAS,This Policy also provides the procedural requirements for the Governing Board and the relationship/duties of the School
Board which serves as the Governing Board's sponsor in relation to the parents' fundamental right of parents to make decisions
regarding the upbringing and control of their children.Nothing in this Policy is intended to prohibit parents from accessing any of
their student's education and health records created,maintained,or used by the Governing Board,as required by Section 1002.22(2),
Florida Statutes.
NOW THEREFORE,The Governing Board,respecting and reinforcing the fundamental rights of parents to make decisions and
control of their children and as required by Section 1001.42,Florida Statutes and further enumerated in Sections 1002.20 and 1014.04,
Florida Statutes provides the following:
I. Notification Requirements
The Governing Board shall notify and provide parents/guardians of the following inforniation and services offered at the School
at the beginning of each academic school year:
a. That classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in
kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in
accordance with state standards.
b. Each health care service offered at their student's school and the option to withhold consent or decline any specific service.
c. Provide an option that parental consent to a health care service does not waive a parent's right to access his or her student's
educational or health records or to be notified about a change in his or her student's services or monitoring.
d. Require consent from the parent/guardian before administering a student well-being questionnaire or health screening form to
a student in kindergarten through grade 3.
II. Parent Grievance Procedures
In the event a parent/guardian feels that any of the above actions in Section I(a-d)of this Policy has or has not occurred,the parent
shall first email the principal or his or her designee regarding concerns which is believed to occur within his or her student's
school.Upon receipt of the email and/or written correspondence from the student's parent/guardian,the principal or his or her
designee shall immediately cause to be investigated whether a violation of Section 1001.42,Florida Statutes has occurred.The
principal or his or her designee shall,within seven calendar days after notification by the parent,provide a written summary of the
investigative findings and any steps to be taken and available to both the School and the parent.
If the parent/guardian,within thirty(30)days after notification to the principal or his or her designee of the alleged violation of
Section 1001.42,Florida Statutes,by the parent that the concern remains unresolved,the Governing Board shall appoint a third
party(other than the principal or his or her designee)to investigate whether a violation of Section 1001.42,Florida Statutes has
occurred or if there is a change in the student's services or monitoring related to the student's mental,emotional,or physical
health or well-being and/or the school's ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for the student and such
change has not been properly communicated to the Parent.
The Governing Board shall receive the summary of findings from the third party and report the findings to the School Board for
the School Board to make a final determination of whether a violation of Section 1001.42,Florida Statutes has occurred or if there
is a change in the student's services or monitoring related to the student's mental,emotional,or physical health or well-being
and/or the school's ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for the student and such change has not been
properly communicated to the Parent.
If a concern is not resolved by the School Board,a parent may:
32
Don SofferAventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
a. Request the Commissioner of Education to appoint a special magistrate who is a member of The Florida Bar in good standing
and who has at least 5 years' experience in administrative law;or
i. The special magistrate shall determine facts relating to the dispute over the School's and School Board's procedure
or practice,consider information provided by the school,and render a recommended decision for resolution to the
State Board of Education within 30 days after receipt of the request by the parent.
ii. The State Board of Education must approve or reject the recommended decision at its next regularly scheduled
meeting that is more than 7 calendar days and no more than 30 days after the date the recommended decision is
transmitted.
iii. The costs of the special magistrate shall be home by the school district.
b. Bring an action against the school district to obtain a declaratory judgment that the school district procedure or practice
violates this paragraph and seek injunctive relief.A court may award damages and shall award reasonable attorney fees and
court costs to a parent who receives declaratory or injunctive relief.
M. Required Communication from Charter School
In the event a charter school principal or the principal's designee is directed to notify a parent by the Governing Board
pursuant to this Policy,the charter school principal or the principal's designee shall make a reasonable attempt to meet
and with the student have the student discuss the issues relating to their upbringing with their parents prior to the formal
written notification to the student's parent/guardian.
For purposes of this policy,"a reasonable attempt to notify"means the exercise of reasonable diligence and care by the
principal or the principal's designee to make contact with the student's parent,guardian,or other known contact whom
the student's parent or guardian has authorized to receive notifications.
At a minimum,the principal or the principal's designee must take the following actions:
a. Use available methods of communication to contact the student's parent,guardian,or other known emergency
contact,including but not limited to,telephone calls,text messages,e-mails,and voice mail messages following the
notification of a when there is a change in the student's services or monitoring related to the student's mental,
emotional,or physical health or well-being and/or the school's ability to provide a safe and supportive learning
environment for the student.
b. Document the method and number of attempts made to contact the student's parent,guardian,or other known
emergency contact,and the outcome of each attempt.
A principal or his or her designee who successfully notifies any other known emergency contact may share only the
information necessary to alert such contact that the parent or caregiver must be contacted.All such information must be
in compliance with federal and state law.
IV. Delayed Communication from Charter School
The principal or the principal's designee may delay notification pursuant to this Policy if:
a. The principal or the principal's designee deems the delay to be in the student's best interest and if there is
knowledge,suspicion,or reason to suspect that such notification may result in abuse,abandonment,or neglect;or
b. The principal or the principal's designee reasonably believes that such delay is necessary to avoid jeopardizing the
health and safety of the student.
V. Conflict of Law
This policy is intended to supplement Sections 1001.41, 1002.20 and 1014.04,Florida Statutes.If there is any provision
of this policy which conflicts with and Florida Statute,the Florida Statute shall control. In the event the Department of
Education updates,as necessary,school counseling frameworks and standards;educator practices and professional
conduct principles;and any other student services personnel guidelines,standards,or frameworks in accordance with the
requirements of this act,the Governing Board shall adopt and incorporate such updated frameworks and standards in
compliance with this Policy,Florida Administrative Code,and Florida Statutes.
VL Effective Date
This policy became effective July 1,2022.The Governing Board reserves the right to change provisions of this Policy at
any time in the future.
33
Don Soffer A ventura High School, Charter Schools USA—Family Handbook
FLOIUDA DEPARTMENT F TMENT OF
EDUCATION
�doc.org
;F VimWv;.I - Fa-9
rr 9 Poslllwdy Pr�iwly
P}0 Recovery �
overne'sS
F Ilh �. F p ositivit 6
.1r:55
Fitness W4IIf14idr ' roily
y+Posi�y __FF MiI9 KiiJndnez F mil+
WIr$ FIrr �i fl M141wm�F
�+ Resikmu
MYrlfdn� r..u.R+.r�+� R�yps�
_ {I� - F iiu Kindness
pe r„rty.r. � �Y�1I`,,.,,, I[
�.ca.ar1 R}-0..0 4}rv.—„ .� .'R�IIMI�RP �1rk�f'1455
F
indnRl6 ¢� -}�wdFcncss ` - - M.�t11*�+ .CfIIIYFl{1!
•horn munjf+l w�.��#t a
�4}7iYny � eI4I1 S €Rr�ow.rrrrsn
FesiGuilysrItngss a
'i�ienc +..�
Monldl Hid �l , '* FA y �n f' F'Inrss
Resilte�te Res i nc -,o,�
Fifiniss Rrl.,rnCo ..
Aiindfulness Recover
�{o p Q Kindneid " r..5dentalHealth...,e
Ib;,I !1'llndfulnsv.rb Slit Aw nm� o�►1municatian
.J, d
WA-1
RcsiNcnc 1(i n:-. W n �.,,,.
K l n d'h e sFitness
.4
EMPDWn�nr
2023-24 Mental Health Application
Part I: Youth Mental Health Awareness Training Plan
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence - 2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Table of Contents
Introduction 3
Part I. Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan 3
Section A: MHAA Plan Assurances 3
Section B: Planned Outcomes 0
Section C: Charter Program Implementation 4
Section D: Direct Employment 7
Section E: MHAA Planned Funds and Expenditures 9
Section F: Charter Governing Board Approval 9
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 2 of 9
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence-2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Introduction
Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan
s. 1006.041, F.S.
MHAA Plan Assurances
The Charter School Assures
One hundred percent of state funds are used to establish or expand school-based mental health care;
train educators and other school staff in detecting and responding to mental health issues; and
connect children, youth and families with appropriate behavioral health services.
Yes
Mental health assistance allocation funds do not supplant other funding sources or increase salaries
or provide staff bonuses or incentives
Yes
Other sources of funding will be maximized-to provide school-based mental health services (e.g.,
Medicaid reimbursement, third-party payments and grants).
Yes
Collaboration with FDOE to disseminate mental health information and resources to students and
families.
Yes
A system is included for tracking the number of students at high risk for mental health or co-occurring
substance use disorders who received mental health screenings or assessments; the number of
students referred to school-based mental health services
Yes
Curriculum and materials purchased using MHAA funds have received a thorough review and all
content is in compliance with State Board of Education Rules and Florida Statutes.
Yes
A charter governing board policy or procedure has been established for
Students referred to a school-based or community-based mental health services provider, for mental
health screening for the identification of mental health concerns and students at risk for mental health
disorders are assessed within 15 calendar days of referral.
Yes
School-based mental health services are initiated within 15 calendar days of identification and
assessment.
Yes
Community-based mental health services are initiated within 30 calendar days of referral.
Yes
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 3 of 9
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence-2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Individuals living in a household with a student receiving services are provided information about
behavioral health services through other delivery systems or payors for which such individuals may
qualify if such services appear to be needed or enhancements in those individuals' behavioral health
would contribute to the improved well-being of the student.
Yes
District schools and local mobile response teams use the same suicide screening instrument
approved by FDOE pursuant to s. 1012.583, F.S., and Rule 6A-4.0010, F.A.C.
Yes
Assisting a mental health services provider or a behavioral health provider as described ins.
1006.041, F.S., respectively, ora school resource officer or school safetyofficerwho has completed
mental health crisis intervention training in attempting to verbally de escalate a student's crisis
situation before initiating an involuntary examination pursuant to s. 394.463, F.S. Such procedures
must include strategies to de-escalate a crisis situation for a student with a developmental disability
as that term is defined ins. 393.063, F.S.
Yes
The requirement that in a student crisis situation, the school or law enforcement personnel must
make a reasonable attempt to contact a mental health professional who may initiate an involuntary
examination pursuant to s. 394.463, F.S., unless the child poses an imminent danger to self or others
before initiating an involuntary examination pursuant to s. 394.463, F.S. Such contact may be in
person or using to lehealth, as defined ins. 456.47, F.S. The mental health professional may be
available to the school district either by contracts or interagency agreements with the managing
entity, one or more local community behavioral health providers, the local mobile response team, or
be a direct or contracted school district employee. Note: All initiated involuntary examinations located
on school grounds, on school transportation or at a school sponsored activity must be documented in
the Involuntary Examinations and Restraint and Seclusion (IERS) platform.
Yes
Parents of students receiving services are provided information about other behavioral health
services available through the student's school or local community-based behavioral health service
providers. Schools may meet this requirement by providing information about and internet addresses
for web-based directories or guides for local behavioral health services.
Yes
The Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan must be focused on a multitiered system of supports to
deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis, intervention, treatment and
recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring substance abuse
diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses. s. 1006.041, F.S.
Yes
District Program Implementation
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 4 of 9
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence-2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Evidence-Based Program Attitude is Altitude
Tier(s) of Implementation Tier 1
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
A comprehensive learning experience that includes a K-12 curriculum where students learn and
repeatedly practice skills for learning and life, known as Noble Techniques, that help them shift to be
confident, proactive, respectful, compassionate students who develop healthy relationships and make
responsible decisions. This experience is built upon an intentional implementation approach.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Attitude is Altitude will be implemented by teachers in designated grade levels through classroom
lessons. The curriculum is aligned to research based on skills for learning and life, with an emphasis
on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-
making.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Supports will help students develop their skills for learning and life and will help them succeed in the
classroom and beyond. Skills for learning and life will be how children and adults learn to understand
and manage emotions, set goals, show empathy for others, establish positive relationships and make
responsible decisions. This will result in stronger academic outcomes, improved behaviors and student
attendance, increased graduation rates, long-term and global impact, and improve lifetime outcomes.
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 5 of 9
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence-2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Evidence-Based Program Invo's "Integrated Multidisciplinary Program to Address Childhood
Trauma" (IMPACT)—Targeted Small Group Interventions
Tier(s) of Implementation Tier 2
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
IMPACT provides front-line support for schools in driving outcomes for high-risk students by
addressing the underlying causes of challenging, disruptive, and sometimes dangerous behaviors.
Leveraging a unique team-based approach, the program integrates experienced Mental Health and
Behavioral Health teams into the natural school environment to dramatically increase student's social
and emotional skills while teaching and fostering replacement behaviors. Interventions are delivered
by licensed mental health professionals who receive regular support from a board-certified behavior
analyst. Behavior support and therapeutic interventions are provided while encouraging academic
support and progress. Interventions are provided to targeted students in small groups, with a focus on
skill acquisition, stress reduction, increased self-awareness, and enhanced personal empowerment.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Interventions align closely with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques and applied behavior
analysis with the explicit goal of reducing mental health symptoms, improving functioning in a variety
of domains, encouraging youth and their parents to understand the nature of mental health and/or
substance related disorders and how to use newly learned skills to maintain position functioning and
recovery. In CBT, youth are taught about the link between thoughts and emotions, and how they may
affect subsequent behavior. By replacing maladaptive thoughts with adaptive thoughts, youth are able
to make better decisions about how to actor behavior and how to apply good coping skills. CBT also
make use of established behavior principles such as positive reinforcement to reward adaptive behavior
and extinguish unhealthy behaviors. Trauma-focused CBT is a subspecialty within CBT that allows
providers to focus closely on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). This therapy addresses
affective/emotional, cognitive/thinking-based and behavioral problems by incorporating discussions
about the specifics of the trauma, teaching effective parenting skills to caregivers, and capitalizing on
the healing therapeutic alliance between therapist and student. Tier 2 services will be provided via
targeted small group interventions.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Implementation and treatment will allow students to make progress in areas of skill acquisition, stress
reduction, increased self-awareness, and enhanced personal empowerment.
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 6 of 9
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence-2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Evidence-Based Program Invo's "Integrated Multidisciplinary Program to Address Childhood
Trauma" (IMPACT)— Intensive Individualized Interventions
Tier(s) of Implementation Tier 3
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
IMPACT provides front-line support for schools in driving outcomes for high-risk students by
addressing the underlying causes of challenging, disruptive, and sometimes dangerous behaviors.
Leveraging a unique team-based approach, the program integrates experienced Mental Health and
Behavioral Health teams into the natural school environment to dramatically increase student's social
and emotional skills while teaching and fostering replacement behaviors. Interventions are delivered
by licensed mental health professionals who receive regular support from a board-certified behavior
analyst. Behavior support and therapeutic interventions are provided while encouraging academic
support and progress. Interventions draw on each youth's strengths and may incorporate family with
the goal of establishing healthy behaviors that will serve the youth throughout his/her lifetime.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Interventions align closely with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques and applied behavior
analysis with the explicit goal of reducing mental health symptoms, improving functioning in a variety
of domains, encouraging youth and their parents to understand the nature of mental health and/or
substance related disorders and how to use newly learned skills to maintain position functioning and
recovery. In CBT, youth are taught about the link between thoughts and emotions, and how they may
affect subsequent behavior. By replacing maladaptive thoughts with adaptive thoughts, youth are able
to make better decisions about how to actor behavior and how to apply good coping skills. CBT also
make use of established behavior principles such as positive reinforcement to reward adaptive behavior
and extinguish unhealthy behaviors. Trauma-focused CBT is a subspecialty within CBT that allows
providers to focus closely on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). This therapy addresses
affective/emotional, cognitive/thinking-based and behavioral problems by incorporating discussions
about the specifics of the trauma, teaching effective parenting skills to caregivers, and capitalizing on
the healing therapeutic alliance between therapist and student. Tier 3 services will be provided via
individual therapy and/or family therapy.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Implementation and treatment will allow students to make progress in relevant domains assessed by
the Invo Outcome Scale (IOS), which is administered at intake and discharge. The IOS measures the
following domains: Anxiety Symptoms, Anger Symptoms, Attitude Towards School, Coping Skills
Acquisition, Crisis Response/Sense of Safety, Depressive Symptoms, Feelings of
Connectedness/Belonging, Improvement of Behavior, Self-Esteem, and Socialization/Peer Relations.
Direct Employment
MHAA Plan Direct Employment
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 7 of 9
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence-2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
School Counselor
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
N/A
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
N/A
School Social Worker
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
N/A
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
N/A
School Psychologist
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
N/A
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
N/A
Other Licensed Mental Health Provider
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
1.00 FTE
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
1.00 FTE
Direct employment policy, roles and responsibilities
Explain how direct employment of school-based mental health services providers (school
psychologists, school social workers, school counselors and other licensed mental health
professionals) will reduce staff-to-student ratios.
The school will secure licensed mental health providers who will work on site for at least a total
number of hours commensurate to a minimum of 90% of the school's MHAA. Additional funding
opportunities will be sought to allow for increased financial resources to allow for expanded provider
service schedules and a reduction in staff-to-student ratios.
Describe your district's established policies and procedures to increase the amount of time
student services personnel spend providing direct mental health services (e.g., review and
revision of staffing allocations based on school or student mental health assistance needs).
Through mental health team meetings, the school will identify students who are at the greatest need
of
intervention. We will use an MTSS model to allocate resources based on student need. Students
identified as
needing Tier 3 interventions will have the greatest number of touch-points, followed by those
identifies as
needing Tier 2 supports. The team will meet regularly to review student progress.
Describe the role of school based mental health providers and community-based partners in
the implementation of your evidence-based mental health program.
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 8 of 9
Dade-Aventura City Of Excellence - 2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Providers/partners will work collaboratively with the school mental health team to ensure that services
are aligned and coordinated to meet the needs of the students on the caseload. Services will be
initiated timely, in accordance with state statute.
Community Contracts/Interagency Agreements
List the contracts or interagency agreements with local behavioral health providers or
Community Action Team (CAT) services and specify the type of behavioral health services
being provided on or off the school campus.
Invo-Progressus Therapy: Qualified mental health provider (LMHC, LMFT, LCSW, RMHCI,
RMFTI, RCSWI) - Assessment, therapy, collaboration
Invo-Progressus Therapy: Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Consultation/Collaboration
MHAA Planned Funds and Expenditures
Allocation Funding Summary
MHAA funds provided in the 2023-2024 Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP)
$ 46,377.00
Unexpended MHAA funds from previous fiscal years
$ 26,661.00
Grand Total MHAA Funds
$ 73,038.00
MHAA planned Funds and Expenditures Form
Please complete the MHAA planned Funds and Expenditures Form to verify the use of funds in
accordance with (s.) 1006.041 Florida Statues.
The allocated funds may not supplant funds that are provided for this purpose from other operating funds
and may not be used to increase salaries or provide bonuses. School districts are encouraged to
maximize third-party health insurance benefits and Medicaid claiming for services, where appropriate.
The following documents were submitted as evidence for this section:
13-0950 Aventura_City_of_Excellence_School_MHAA_Plan ned_Expenditures_Report_2023-2024.pdf
13-0950 Aventura City of Excellence School MHAAP Planned Funds and Expenditures 2023-2024
Document Link
Charter Governing Board Approval
This application certifies that the Miami-Dade County Public Schools governing board has approved the
Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan, which outlines the local program and planned expenditures to
establish or expand school-based mental health care consistent with the statutory requirements for the
mental health assistance allocation in accordance with section 1011.62(14), F.S.
Governing Board Approval Date
Thursday 7/20/2023
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 9 of 9
FLOIUDA DEPARTMENT F TMENT OF
EDUCATION
�doc.org
;F VimWv;.I - Fa-9
rr 9 Poslllwdy Pr�iwly
P}0 Recovery �
overne'sS
F Ilh �. F p ositivit 6
.1r:55
Fitness W4IIf14idr ' roily
y+Posi�y __FF MiI9 KiiJndnez F mil+
WIr$ FIrr �i fl M141wm�F
�+ Resikmu
MYrlfdn� r..u.R+.r�+� R�yps�
_ {I� - F iiu Kindness
pe r„rty.r. � �Y�1I`,,.,,, I[
�.ca.ar1 R}-0..0 4}rv.—„ .� .'R�IIMI�RP �1rk�f'1455
F
indnRl6 ¢� -}�wdFcncss ` - - M.�t11*�+ .CfIIIYFl{1!
•horn munjf+l w�.��#t a
�4}7iYny � eI4I1 S €Rr�ow.rrrrsn
FesiGuilysrItngss a
'i�ienc +..�
Monldl Hid �l , '* FA y �n f' F'Inrss
Resilte�te Res i nc -,o,�
Fifiniss Rrl.,rnCo ..
Aiindfulness Recover
�{o p Q Kindneid " r..5dentalHealth...,e
Ib;,I !1'llndfulnsv.rb Slit Aw nm� o�►1municatian
.J, d
WA-1
RcsiNcnc 1(i n:-. W n �.,,,.
K l n d'h e sFitness
.4
EMPDWn�nr
2023-24 Mental Health Application
Part I: Youth Mental Health Awareness Training Plan
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School - 2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Table of Contents
Introduction 3
Part I. Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan 3
Section A: MHAA Plan Assurances 3
Section B: Planned Outcomes 0
Section C: Charter Program Implementation 4
Section D: Direct Employment 8
Section E: MHAA Planned Funds and Expenditures 9
Section F: Charter Governing Board Approval 10
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 2 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School -2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Introduction
Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan
s. 1006.041, F.S.
MHAA Plan Assurances
The Charter School Assures
One hundred percent of state funds are used to establish or expand school-based mental health care;
train educators and other school staff in detecting and responding to mental health issues; and
connect children, youth and families with appropriate behavioral health services.
Yes
Mental health assistance allocation funds do not supplant other funding sources or increase salaries
or provide staff bonuses or incentives
Yes
Other sources of funding will be maximized-to provide school-based mental health services (e.g.,
Medicaid reimbursement, third-party payments and grants).
Yes
Collaboration with FDOE to disseminate mental health information and resources to students and
families.
Yes
A system is included for tracking the number of students at high risk for mental health or co-occurring
substance use disorders who received mental health screenings or assessments; the number of
students referred to school-based mental health services
Yes
Curriculum and materials purchased using MHAA funds have received a thorough review and all
content is in compliance with State Board of Education Rules and Florida Statutes.
Yes
A charter governing board policy or procedure has been established for
Students referred to a school-based or community-based mental health services provider, for mental
health screening for the identification of mental health concerns and students at risk for mental health
disorders are assessed within 15 calendar days of referral.
Yes
School-based mental health services are initiated within 15 calendar days of identification and
assessment.
Yes
Community-based mental health services are initiated within 30 calendar days of referral.
Yes
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 3 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School -2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Individuals living in a household with a student receiving services are provided information about
behavioral health services through other delivery systems or payors for which such individuals may
qualify if such services appear to be needed or enhancements in those individuals' behavioral health
would contribute to the improved well-being of the student.
Yes
District schools and local mobile response teams use the same suicide screening instrument
approved by FDOE pursuant to s. 1012.583, F.S., and Rule 6A-4.0010, F.A.C.
Yes
Assisting a mental health services provider or a behavioral health provider as described ins.
1006.041, F.S., respectively, ora school resource officer or school safetyofficerwho has completed
mental health crisis intervention training in attempting to verbally de escalate a student's crisis
situation before initiating an involuntary examination pursuant to s. 394.463, F.S. Such procedures
must include strategies to de-escalate a crisis situation for a student with a developmental disability
as that term is defined ins. 393.063, F.S.
Yes
The requirement that in a student crisis situation, the school or law enforcement personnel must
make a reasonable attempt to contact a mental health professional who may initiate an involuntary
examination pursuant to s. 394.463, F.S., unless the child poses an imminent danger to self or others
before initiating an involuntary examination pursuant to s. 394.463, F.S. Such contact may be in
person or using to lehealth, as defined ins. 456.47, F.S. The mental health professional may be
available to the school district either by contracts or interagency agreements with the managing
entity, one or more local community behavioral health providers, the local mobile response team, or
be a direct or contracted school district employee. Note: All initiated involuntary examinations located
on school grounds, on school transportation or at a school sponsored activity must be documented in
the Involuntary Examinations and Restraint and Seclusion (IERS) platform.
Yes
Parents of students receiving services are provided information about other behavioral health
services available through the student's school or local community-based behavioral health service
providers. Schools may meet this requirement by providing information about and internet addresses
for web-based directories or guides for local behavioral health services.
Yes
The Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan must be focused on a multitiered system of supports to
deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis, intervention, treatment and
recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring substance abuse
diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses. s. 1006.041, F.S.
Yes
District Program Implementation
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 4 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School -2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Evidence-Based Program Attitude is Altitude
Tier(s) of Implementation Tier 1
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
A comprehensive learning experience that includes a K-12 curriculum where students learn and
repeatedly practice skills for learning and life, known as Noble Techniques, that help them shift to be
confident, proactive, respectful, compassionate students who develop healthy relationships and make
responsible decisions. This experience is built upon an intentional implementation approach.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Attitude is Altitude will be implemented by teachers in designated grade levels through classroom lessons.
The curriculum is aligned to research based on skills for learning and life, with an emphasis on self-
awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Supports will help students develop their skills for learning and life and will help them succeed in the
classroom and beyond. Skills for learning and life will be how children and adults learn to understand and
manage emotions, set goals, show empathy for others, establish positive relationships and make
responsible decisions. This will result in stronger academic outcomes, improved behaviors and student
attendance, increased graduation rates, long-term and global impact, and improve lifetime outcomes.
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 5 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School -2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Evidence-Based Program Invo's Integrated Multidisciplinary Program to Address Childhood Trauma
(IMPACT) Targeted Small Group Interventions
Tier(s) of Implementation Tier 2
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
IMPACT provides front-line support for schools in driving outcomes for high-risk students by addressing
the underlying causes of challenging, disruptive, and sometimes dangerous behaviors. Leveraging a
unique team-based approach, the program integrates experienced Mental Health and Behavioral Health
teams into the natural school environment to dramatically increase student's social and emotional skills
while teaching and fostering replacement behaviors. Interventions are delivered by licensed mental health
professionals who receive regular support from a board-certified behavior analyst. Behavior support and
therapeutic interventions are provided while encouraging academic support and progress. Interventions
are provided to targeted students in small groups, with a focus on skill acquisition, stress reduction,
increased self-awareness, and enhanced personal empowerment.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Interventions align closely with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques and applied behavior
analysis with the explicit goal of reducing mental health symptoms, improving functioning in a variety of
domains, encouraging youth and their parents to understand the nature of mental health and/or substance
related disorders and how to use newly learned skills to maintain position functioning and recovery. In
CBT, youth are taught about the link between thoughts and emotions, and how they may affect
subsequent behavior. By replacing maladaptive thoughts with adaptive thoughts, youth are able to make
better decisions about how to actor behavior and how to apply good coping skills. CBT also make use of
established behavior principles such as positive reinforcement to reward adaptive behavior and extinguish
unhealthy behaviors. Trauma-focused CBT is a subspecialty within CBT that allows providers to focus
closely on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). This therapy addresses affective/emotional, cognitive/
thinking-based and behavioral problems by incorporating discussions about the specifics of the trauma,
teaching effective parenting skills to caregivers, and capitalizing on the healing therapeutic alliance
between therapist and student. Tier 2 services will be provided via targeted small group interventions.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Implementation and treatment will allow students to make progress in areas of skill acquisition, stress
reduction, increased self-awareness, and enhanced personal empowerment.
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 6 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School -2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Evidence-Based Program Invo's Integrated Multidisciplinary Program to Address Childhood Trauma
(IMPACT) Intensive Individualized Interventions
Tier(s) of Implementation Tier 3
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
IMPACT provides front-line support for schools in driving outcomes for high-risk students by addressing
the underlying causes of challenging, disruptive, and sometimes dangerous behaviors. Leveraging a
unique team-based approach, the program integrates experienced Mental Health and Behavioral Health
teams into the natural school environment to dramatically increase student's social and emotional skills
while teaching and fostering replacement behaviors. Interventions are delivered by licensed mental health
professionals who receive regular support from a board-certified behavior analyst. Behavior support and
therapeutic interventions are provided while encouraging academic support and progress. Interventions
draw on each youth's strengths and may incorporate family with the goal of establishing healthy behaviors
that will serve the youth throughout his/her lifetime.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Interventions align closely with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques and applied behavior
analysis with the explicit goal of reducing mental health symptoms, improving functioning in a variety of
domains, encouraging youth and their parents to understand the nature of mental health and/or substance
related disorders and how to use newly learned skills to maintain position functioning and recovery. In
CBT, youth are taught about the link between thoughts and emotions, and how they may affect
subsequent behavior. By replacing maladaptive thoughts with adaptive thoughts, youth are able to make
better decisions about how to actor behavior and how to apply good coping skills. CBT also make use of
established behavior principles such as positive reinforcement to reward adaptive behavior and extinguish
unhealthy behaviors. Trauma-focused CBT is a subspecialty within CBT that allows providers to focus
closely on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). This therapy addresses affective/emotional, cognitive/
thinking-based and behavioral problems by incorporating discussions about the specifics of the trauma,
teaching effective parenting skills to caregivers, and capitalizing on the healing therapeutic alliance
between therapist and student. Tier 3 services will be provided via individual therapy and/or family
therapy.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Implementation and treatment will allow students to make progress in relevant domains assessed by the
Invo Outcome Scale (IOS), which is administered at intake and discharge. The IOS measures the
following domains: Anxiety Symptoms, Anger Symptoms, Attitude Towards School, Coping Skills
Acquisition, Crisis Response/Sense of Safety, Depressive Symptoms, Feelings of Connectedness/
Belonging, Improvement of Behavior, Self-Esteem, and Socialization/Peer Relations.
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 7 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School -2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Evidence-Based Program
Tier(s) of Implementation [none selected]
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Evidence-Based Program
Tier(s) of Implementation [none selected]
Describe the key EBP components that will be implemented.
Explain how your district will implement evidence-based mental health services for students to improve
the early identification of social, emotional, or behavioral problems or substance use disorders, as well as
the likelihood of at risk students developing social emotional or behavioral problems, depression, anxiety
disorders or suicidal tendencies, and how these will assist students dealing with trauma and violence.
Explain how the supports will deliver evidence-based mental health care assessment, diagnosis,
intervention, treatment and recovery services to students with one or more mental health or co-occurring
substance abuse diagnoses and to students at high risk of such diagnoses.
Direct Employment
MHAA Plan Direct Employment
School Counselor
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
NA
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
NA
School Social Worker
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
NA
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
NA
School Psychologist
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 8 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School -2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
NA
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
NA
Other Licensed Mental Health Provider
Current Ratio as of August 1, 2023
1.0 FTE
2023-2024 proposed Ratio by June 30, 2024
1.0 FTE
Direct employment policy, roles and responsibilities
Explain how direct employment of school-based mental health services providers (school
psychologists, school social workers, school counselors and other licensed mental health
professionals) will reduce staff-to-student ratios.
The school will secure licensed mental health providers who will work on site for at least a total
number of hours commensurate to a minimum of 90% of the school's MHAA. Additional funding
opportunities will be sought to allow for increased financial resources to allow for expanded provider
service schedules and a reduction in staff-to-student ratios.
Describe your district's established policies and procedures to increase the amount of time
student services personnel spend providing direct mental health services (e.g., review and
revision of staffing allocations based on school or student mental health assistance needs).
Through mental health team meetings, the school will identify students who are at the greatest need
of intervention. We will use an MTSS model to allocate resources based on student need. Students
identified as needing Tier 3 interventions will have the greatest number of touch-points, followed by
those identifies as needing Tier 2 supports. The team will meet regularly to review student progress.
Describe the role of school based mental health providers and community-based partners in
the implementation of your evidence-based mental health program.
Providers/partners will work collaboratively with the school mental health team to ensure that services
are aligned and coordinated to meet the needs of the students on the caseload. Services will be
initiated timely, in accordance with state statute.
Community Contracts/Interagency Agreements
List the contracts or interagency agreements with local behavioral health providers or
Community Action Team (CAT) services and specify the type of behavioral health services
being provided on or off the school campus.
Invo-Progressus Therapy: Qualified mental health provider (LMHC, LMFT, LCSW, RMHCI, RMFTI,
RCSWI) -Assessment, therapy, collaboration
Invo-Progressus Therapy: Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Consultation/Collaboration
MHAA Planned Funds and Expenditures
Allocation Funding Summary
MHAA funds provided in the 2023-2024 Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP)
$ 35,935.00
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 9 of 10
Dade-Don Soffer Aventura High School - 2023-24 MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATION CHARTER
Unexpended MHAA funds from previous fiscal years
$ 15,837.00
Grand Total MHAA Funds
$ 51,772.00
MHAA planned Funds and Expenditures Form
Please complete the MHAA planned Funds and Expenditures Form to verify the use of funds in
accordance with (s.) 1006.041 Florida Statues.
The allocated funds may not supplant funds that are provided for this purpose from other operating funds
and may not be used to increase salaries or provide bonuses. School districts are encouraged to
maximize third-party health insurance benefits and Medicaid claiming for services, where appropriate.
The following documents were submitted as evidence for this section:
13-7026_Don_Soffer_Aventura_High_School_MHAA_Planned_Expenditures_Re port_2023-2024.pdf
13-7026 Don Soffer Aventura High School Planned Funds and Expenditures Form
Document Link
harter Governing Board Approval
This application certifies that the Miami-Dade County Public Schools governing board has approved the
Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan, which outlines the local program and planned expenditures to
establish or expand school-based mental health care consistent with the statutory requirements for the
mental health assistance allocation in accordance with section 1011.62(14), F.S.
Governing Board Approval Date
Thursday 7/20/2023
Last Modified: 7/26/2023 https://www.floridacims.org Page 10 of 10
CITY OF "ENTURA
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Commission, Acting in its capacity as the Governing Board for the
Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES) and the Don Soffer Aventura
High School (DSAHS)
FROM: Ronald J. Wasson, City Manager
DATE: September 15, 2023
SUBJECT: Reappointment of the 2023/2024 ACES Parent Facilitator/Conflict
Resolution Officer and the DSAHS Parent Facilitator/Conflict
Resolution Officer
September 21, 2023 Aventura Governing Board Meeting Agenda
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that Ronald J. Wasson be reappointed as the Parent Facilitator/Conflict
Resolution Officer for the Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES) for 2023/2024.
It is also recommended that Kimberly S. Merchant be reappointed as the Parent
Facilitator/Conflict Resolution Officer for the Don Soffer Aventura High School (DSAHS)
for 2023/2024.
If you have any questions, please contact me.
RJW/act
CITY OF "ENTURA
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board
for the Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES)
FROM: Ronald J. Wasson, City Manager
DATE: September 15, 2023
SUBJECT: Recommendation to Accept Out-Of-Field Waivers
September 21, 2023 ACES Governing Board Meeting Agenda
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board
of the Aventura City of Excellence School, accept the out-of-field waivers as outlined in
this memorandum and recommended by Principal Melhuish.
BACKGROUND
The Miami-Dade County School Board requires the Governing Board of each charter
school annually to accept a list of teachers considered out-of-field. Teachers working on
additional certification or endorsements for subjects that they are teaching are considered
out-of-field until requirements are met. All teachers hold a current certification. The
additional certifications or endorsements are extra credentials. This is a typical practice
as teachers expand their professional development.
Below are listings of instructional staff members who are working towards additional
certification in the following subject areas:
English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Endorsement
This is an add-on to a current certificate to be able to teach English Language learners.
The following teachers are involved in a five-course sequence, allowing six years for
completion, though we anticipate her completing the sequence within the two-year period
allotted to earn the allotted Governing Board bonus:
Brandee Singleton, Kate Litwin, Rhonda James
Gifted Endorsement
This is an add-on to a current certificate to be able to teach gifted learners. The following
certified teachers are involved in ongoing coursework in pursuit of gifted endorsement:
Joelle LaRose, Michelle Marquez, Laskmy Santin, Shannon Maurer,Jessica Brown, Myriam
Haynes, Andrea Cerda
Elementary Education
These teachers are certified in a different grade level, field, or subject and have a
scheduled testing date to earn certification as elementary educators.
Griselle Espinell (5-9 Math and 5-9 Science), Juan Parra (6-8 English), Nicole Calka
(PK-3), Brandee Singleton (6-12 Social Science), Zaida Castro (Educational
Leadership), Nayla Cespedes (K-12 Art)
RJW/act
Attachment
CCO3079-23
Aventura City •
• •
Memo
To: Ronald J. Wasson, City Manager
From: Ana Melhuish, Principal
Date: 9/13/2021
Re: Request for governing board approval of out-of-field waivers
Teachers working on additional certification or endorsements for subjects that they
are teaching are considered out-of-field until requirements are met. All teachers
hold a current certification. These are additional or unique credentials for their
current position.
English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Endorsement
This is an add-on to a current certificate to be able to teach English Language
learners. The following teachers are involved in a five-course sequence, allowing
six years for completion, some of which have completed coursework and await a
testing appointment or FLDOE action:
Brandee Singleton, Kate Litwin, Rhonda James
Gifted Endorsement
This is an add-on to a current certificate to be able to teach gifted learners. The
following certified teachers are involved in on-going coursework in pursuit of gifted
endorsement:
Joelle LaRose, Michelle Marquez, Laskmy Santin, Shannon Maurer, Jessica
Brown, Myriam Haynes, Andrea Cerda
Elementary Education
These teachers are certified in a different grade level, field, or subject and have a
scheduled testing date to earn certification as elementary educators.
Griselle Espinell (5-9 Math and 5-9 Science), Juan Parra (6-8 English), Nicole
Calka (PK-3), Brandee Singleton (6-12 Social Science), Zaida Castro (Educational
Leadership), Nayla Cespedes (K-12 Art)
1
English 6-12
These teachers are certified in a different grade level, field, or subject and have a
scheduled testing date to earn certification in English 6-12.
Babpde Orindare (ESE)
Physical Education
These teachers are certified in a different grade level, field, or subject and have a
scheduled testing date to earn certification in Physical Education
Anthony Guitierrez (Business Education)
• Page 2
Aventura City •
• •
Memo
To: Ronald J. Wasson, City Manager
From: Ana Melhuish, Principal
Date: 9/13/2021
Re: Request to alter full days to half days
We have three days on the school calendar that would benefit from shifting to
half-days. Elementary students would be dismissed at 12 p.m., and Middle School
students would be dismissed at 12.30 p.m.
October 26, 2023 - This would allow staff and families ample time to set up for our
Trunk or Treat event.
November 8, 2023 - This would allow teachers and staff to leave school to drive
up to Orlando to attend the 25th-year celebration for CSUSA without needing to
find coverage for multiple classes.
May 30, 2023 - This would accommodate students and families to attend our
Spring Showcase which will be held in the afternoon.
1