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5-22-2025 Old ACES HandbookAVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL ACES PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK 2025-2026 ACES AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL 3333 NE 188" Street Aventura, Florida 33180 Telephone: 305-466-1499 Fax: 305-466-1339 Website: www.aventuracharter.org Board of Directors Mayor Howard S. Weinberg Commissioner Gustavo Blanchman Commissioner Cindy Orlinsky Commissioner Clifford B. Ain Commissioner Paul A. Kruss Commissioner Rachel Friedland Commissioner Amit Bloom City Manager Bryan Pegues Charter Schools USA Deputy Director 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. 1 Rachel Windler-Frietag Principal Ana Melhuish C S— Strong Minds Good Hearts The most enriching growth period of our students' lives begins the first day of school. The Charter Schools USA family of schools is proud to offer you and your family a magnificent educational experience until the caps and gowns are donned. Our schools require no tuition and offer a rigorous curriculum, safe learning environment, family atmosphere, and robust extracurricular opportunities. Productive parental involvement powerfully impacts student performance. This handbook provides essential information regarding your student's learning experience. If you would like additional information, please call our main office. CSUSA Mission: Relentless commitment to student greatness in school and in life. CSUSA Values: Purpose, Passion, Integrity, Grit CSUSA Promise: Strong minds and good hearts. 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. 2 venturat City of Excellence School ACES 3333 NE 1 881h tree# AventuraX FL 33180 -2k � XFXIFX(f(i(NpO Dear ACES Families, Save for welcome letter from Ms. Melhuish. Coming Soon! 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. Table of Contents: Page Number(s) ACES SCHOOL CALENDAR 2025-2026 6 REPORT CARDS AND INTERIM REPORTS 6 ACES WELCOME 7 NON DISCRIMINATION NOTICE ACES VISION STATEMENT 7 ACES MISSION STATEMENT 7 ACES PHILOSOPHY AND ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS 7 ENROLLMENT/REGISTRATION 8 SCHOOL DIRECTORY 8 GOVERNING BOARD 8 STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 8 SCHOOL HOURS 9 ARRIVAL POLICY 9 ATTENDANCE 9 ABSENCES 9 EARLY DISMISSAL 11 TARDY POLICY 12 DISMISSAL RULES 13 CAR RIDER PERMITS 13 BUS TRANSPORTATION 14 "STUDENT OF THE MONTH" AWARDS 15 PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES 15 STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS 16 DRESS CODE & UNIFORM POLICY 16 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. E LABELS 17 DRINKS 17 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 17 EMERGENCY DRILLS 18 FIELD TRIPS 18 CURRICULUM 19 GRADING 19 ACADEMIC HONESTY/HONOR CODE 20 PARENT PORTAL 20 HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION 20 HONOR ROLL REQUIREMENTS 20 RECESS 21 "HOME LEARNING" POLICY 21 INSTRUCTIONAL BOOKS, EQUIPMENT, MATERIALS, AND SUPPLIES 22 PROMOTION/RETENTION 23 HEALTH SERVICES 23 ILLNESS, ACCIDENT AND MEDICAL EMERGENCY 23 SCREENINGS 24 MEDICATION 24 HEAD LICE 24 PARENT VOLUNTEER HOURS 24 PARENTS AND VISITORS ENTERING THE SCHOOL 25 STUDENT RECORDS/PARENT RIGHTS 25 COMMUNICATION POLICY/CONFLICT RESOLUTION 25 MEDIA CENTER 26 PARTIES 27 SCHOOL AFTERCARE INFORMATION 27 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. E SCHOOL AFTERCARE PAYMENT PROCEDURE 28 LUNCHES 28 LUNCH PROGRAM 28 SCHOOL RULES 29 BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY 32 REPORTING SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR OR THREATS 32 SPECIAL PROGRAMS ONE TO ONE DEVICES PARENT OBLIGATION FORM ACES SCHOOL CALENDAR 2025-2026 Dates when students are not in school: September 1 Labor Day September 23 Teacher Planning October 2 Teacher Planning November 3-4 Teacher Planning November 11 Veterans Day November 24-28 Thanksgiving Break December 22 — January 2 Winter Recess January 19 Martin Luther King Day February 16 Presidents' Day March 23-27 Spring Break March 30 Teacher Planning April 3 Teacher Planning May 25 Memorial Day June 5 Teacher Planning Early Release Dates: August 14 September 22 October 30 33 25 K11 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. I November 21 December 19 January 26 February 2 March 20 May 11 June 2-4 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 Available on the District Student Portal: November 1 st Quarter Report Card February 2nd Quarter Report Card April 3rd Quarter Report Card June 4th Quarter Report Card *Report cards will no longer be printed and sent home. 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 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. 7 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 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 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. 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. 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. 0 GOVERNING BOARD The City of Aventura Commission serves as the Governing Board of ACES. Click 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 • 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: K-5th Grades: Middle School: 8:OOAM - 8:20AM 8:30AM - 3:OOPM 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). School drop-off takes place from 7:45a.m. - 8:27 a.m. Students should not be dropped off prior to 7:45 without coordination and parents are not to leave their vehicle when dropping off. It is advised that parents wait until after arrival to speak to the front office regarding any non -emergency situations. Student Drop -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. There are two drop-off locations for students arriving to school by car. The first drop-off area is through our east gate. Cars will be directed to pull all the way up 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. 10 before releasing the student(s) from the car. The second drop-off location is located in front of the recreation center. All students will be directed to enter the building through the breezeway. Students will not be able to access the building through the front office. (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. Please refer to the required Parent Obligation for attendance requirements when choosing our charter school. 3. 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. 4. If excused absence is required for more than 10 school days, the school will work with the family to consider hospital -homebound or other district alternatives. 5. 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), tardies, or early dismissals via phone conference, email, teacher/parent conference or letter. 6. If absences continue, a formal referral letter for attendance will be made to administration with supporting documentation of parent contact and non -medical absences stapled to the referral and proper district and school procedures will follow. 7. A student must be present for a minimum of 4 hours of instructional time to be considered present. 8. Students with excused absences will have 10 days to complete make-up 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. 11 work. Please note, students must be in physical attendance at school to receive mastery. Students with unexcused absences will need to submit missing work 48 hours upon their return. 9. 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 • Illness of immediate family • 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. Please note that vacations are considered unexcused absences. If an excused absence is required for more than 10 school days, the school will work with the family to consider hospital -homebound or other district alternatives. Pleaserefer to the required Parent Obligation for attendance requirements when choosing our charter school. All other absences are considered unexcused. 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. 12 All students with an absence have ten days to make up missed work and assessments. All students who have been absent from school or specific classes must complete the make-up assignments for classes missed within the approved makeup window. Students should check with their teacher for make-up assignments. EARLY DISMISSAL The parent or guardian must make all requests for early dismissal to the main office. 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 2:45 PM for middle school students. Additionally, during early release days, early dismissal will not be granted after 11:30 AM for elementary students, or 11:45 AM for middle school students. The front office will be closed to visitors from 2:45-3:45 and 11:45-12:45 on early release days. 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 child 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 legal documentation outlining visitation rights will result in any parent listed on the birth certificate being permitted to pick up a child. Friends and strangers will be denied access to a student in the absence of verified parental consent. 5 early dismissals in a single quarter may result in a loss of arade 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 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. 13 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 upon arrival 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. 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 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. 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. 14 For all students in grades K — 8, once the student has accumulated 3 excused tardies or absences due to leaving school early for medical/dental reasons within a semester, the parent must provide documentation from a physician that the student had a medical/dental appointment for subsequent class absences or tardies to be excused. 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 with valid ID. 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. • Families who have students in grades K-5 and 6-8 must make arrangements for both dismissal times. Families can sign-up for sibling connection if they want to pick up at 3:30. Fees will be charged to families who pick up students after K-5 dimissal has ended. • 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 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. 15 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. • 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. 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 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. 16 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. • 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 the traits learned monthly from the Positivity Project. Parents are invited on campus to take part in the celebration. 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. 17 PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES Definition for praoses of this policy: "electronic devices" shall include any wireless telephone, watch, wireless headphones, 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 attendina 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, including classroom changes and restroom breaks. Smart watches cannot be worn at any time during the school day. 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 following day. If a cell phone is brought to school and is lost or stolen, the school is not responsible for the loss. 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. Consequences are as follows: First Offense: The electronic device will be returned to the parent/guardian of the student. Devices may be picked up that afternoon between 3-45-4.00 or the following day between 9-30-2.00 Second Offense: The electronic device will be returned to the parent/guardian of the student and the student will be required to turn in their device(s) every morning before reporting to class. Third Offense: Parent must sign paperwork acknowledging the electronic device 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. IN will be returned at the end of the academic year. Failure to surrender items will result in a disciplinary consequence. 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. 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. 19 Students in grades K-5 are not permitted to wear make-up in school. Students are not permitted to have face piercings or tattoos. 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. "Soffe shorts". "belly shirts", tank tops, off the shoulder tops, and sweatshirts with hoods are prohibited. Throughout the year ACES will designate days allowing students to wear 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. 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. Student may be required to wait in the office until proper uniform is provided. 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) At no time are students to wear anything offensive, immodest or deemed inappropriate by the faculty. ALL CLOTHING SHOULD BE LABELED WITH THE STUDENTS NAME. Parents of students in Kindergarten are encouraged to leave a Ziploc bag labeled with the child's name with a spare change of clothes in the classroom throughout the year for emergencies. Kindergarten-51 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 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. 20 sleeve. Navy blue tights or leggings are the only allowable color and may only be worn under skirts or dresses. 61-8IGrade 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, regardless 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 drinks are not permitted. 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. All water bottles/beverages must be sealable in order to prevent spills. Reusable bottles with an exposed straw will not be allowed on campus. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 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 child 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 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. 21 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, tornado watches and warnings) • Facility/maintenance issues • Suspicious activity in the community • Medical issue of a student or staff member that requires emergency transportation • Rumors of threats/or a threat on campus • Any actual emergency This list is not inclusive, but gives you an idea of the types of situations that could trigger a lock -down. 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. 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 representative to receive information. Additionally, every effort will be made to post pertinent information related to any incident at www.aventuracharter.ora. 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. 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. 22 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. Because we contract with field trip companies for our overnight trips there is limited availability. If the student has a neaative balance (lunch, aftercare, etc.) the student may not attend the field trip unless the balance is paid in full. Any students who have shown a pattern of disruptive behavior, defiance, or non-compliance with school rules and/or attendance expectations 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 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. 23 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 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. 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. 24 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. 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 required 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: ►waif ' • �1I�11�� 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. 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. 25 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 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 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. 26 *(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 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. Students should only use Al tools that have been approved by the Administration. 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. 27 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 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. 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. 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. 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. All volunteers are required to complete the online safety trainings prior to volunteering on school property or at school sponsored events. 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. 29 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 must 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 forget items at home they should NOT be dropped off at school, and parents are encouraged to communicate this with the teacher or impacted staff member in order to make arrangements for instructional items. 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. 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/guardians are asked to review all student work and communications sent home. Parents may also view their child's current academic status through the portal. Every teacher welcomes the opportunity to meet with parents to 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. 30 discuss their child's progress. In grades 3-8, all teachers will be invited to attend a parent conference to best provide a whole picture of how the student is doing. If after the conference, there is still a concern: • The parent should 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; Dean Stroup for K-5 (dstroup(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, Ana Melhuish amelhuisha-aventuracharter.org, 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 Charter School's USA Deputy Director, Rachel Windler-Freitag rwindlerfreitag(a)charterschoolsusa.com, to discuss and attempt to resolve their concern or grievance. The Deputy Director's decision on school matters, except the expulsion of students, shall be final. MEDIA CENTER Visiting the Media Center 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: 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. 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. 31 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. Parents will will charged via My School Bucks. 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 smiranda(a)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 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. 32 and approve this with the homeroom teacher. Please note that only store-bought food may be served. Balloons and decorations are not permitted. In K-5 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 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. 33 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. 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 myschooIbucks. com. Families must remain current on their child's lunch balance. Positive balances remaining on the meal account at the end of the year will carry over to the next school year unless a refund is requested in writing/email. *A negative balance will result in a required invoice to pay prior to paying for any extracurricular activities or events at the school (dance, field trips, etc.). 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. For those parents interested in purchasing Kosher Lunch for their child, please visit the Kosher Lunch link on the Lunch Information page (or click here) to learn how to purchase meals and have them delivered to ACES. Please note that this is a service we allow; however, we do not control the menu, pricing, or delivery times of JCafe. 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. 34 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. Please note that students may not use fragrances or sprays such as cologne, perfume, or body spray at any time on campus. 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 ;neral, go directly to their destinations In 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 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 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. 35 • 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. 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. 36 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 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. 37 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. PERMANENT DISMISSAL The Principal may recommend dismissal of a student to the Deputy Director(the Principal's supervisor) and the City Manager 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. 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. Miaml 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 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. 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: http://www. dadeschools. net/schoolboard/rules/Chapt5/5d-1.101. 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. 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. 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. 39 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 half -year Computer Concepts, Coding, and Research course designed to expose them to all facets of the technology world available to them. 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. ,N LIBRARY AND RESEARCH SKILLS. - 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. 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 half -year or 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 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. 41 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. 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 must sign the Technology Acceptable User Agreement. Student's will lose access to technology if the agreement is not completed. 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. 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. 42 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. PARENT OBLIGATION 2025-2026 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 School's) 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. 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. 43 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. 1/2 of the hours must be completed before Winter Break and the second 1/2 by May 111 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 brown bagged 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. *A negative balance will result in a required invoice to pay prior to paying for any extracurricular activities or events at the school (dance, field trips, etc.). 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 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 and monitor television, video games, social media and phone usage during the week, and to provide more time for reading, studying and family time. E. To check my child's homework nightly. As a proud member of the Charter Schools USA 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 School Official Aventura City of Excellence School POLICY AND PROCEDURES PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION, INCLUDING SEXUAL AND OTHER FORMS OF HARASSMENT 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. 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. 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 other 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. 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. 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. 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: 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. 1. Has the purpose or affect 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 stereotyping; 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. VI. 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. 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. 47 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: 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. 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 VI.B.1.a. (above). 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 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. 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. 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. After providing the opportunity for an informal hearing as referenced in section VI.B.1.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 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. 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. 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 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 Aventura City of Excellence School to determine if there is evidence that a misfeasance or malfeasance of office occurred. The Aventura City of Excellence School 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 Aventura City of Excellence School. 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 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. 50 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 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. Aventura City of Excellence School shall conspicuously post its Notice of Non -Discrimination and Non -Harassment and the name and telephone number 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 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. 51 Parental Rights in Education Policy 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 information 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 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. 52 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 (7) 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 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. 53 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: 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 borne 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. III. 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 rp for to the formal written notification to the student's parent/guardian. 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. 54 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. 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. 55 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. VI. 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. 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. 56