HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-21-2026 ACES and DSAHS Governing Board Meeting AgendaAVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL AND
QON SOFFER
L AVEN�URA
HIGH
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
May 21, 2026
9:00 a.m.
Aventura Government Center
19200 W. Country Club Drive • Aventura, FL 33180
Sth Floor Executive Conference Room
Governing Board
AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING BOARD
FOR THE AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL (ACES) AND
THE DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL (DSAHS)
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg, Esq.
Vice Mayor Clifford B. Ain
Commissioner Gustavo Blachman
Commissioner Amit Bloom
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland, Esq.
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss
Commissioner Cindy Orlinsky
City Manager Bryan Pegues — Governing Board Facilitator
City Clerk Ellisa L. Horvath, MMC
City Attorney Robert Meyers
Aventura Governing Board Meeting Agenda Mav 21, 2026
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING BOARD FOR THE
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL (ACES) AND THE DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH
SCHOOL (DSAHS):
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: April 23, 2026 Regular Meeting
4. SCHOOL UPDATES:
• Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES)
• Don Soffer Aventura High School (DSAHS)
5. ORDINANCES — SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING:
A. AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION, ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING
BOARD FOR THE AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL (ACES):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE ATTACHED
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027 (JULY 1 — JUNE 30), PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF
THE CITY CHARTER; AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY
THE BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL; PROVIDING FOR
PERSONNEL AUTHORIZATION; PROVIDING FOR GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING
FOR AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
B. AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION, ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING
BOARD FOR THE DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL (DSAHS):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE ATTACHED
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027 (JULY 1 — JUNE 30), PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF THE
CITY CHARTER; AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY THE
BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL; PROVIDING FOR PERSONNEL
AUTHORIZATION; PROVIDING FOR GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING FOR
AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
6. APPROVAL OF THE ACES PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK 2026-2027 AND
THE DSAHS FAMILY HANDBOOK 2026-2027
7. OTHER BUSINESS
8. PUBLIC COMMENT
9. ADJOURNMENT
This meeting is open to the public. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. all persons who
are disabled and who need special accommodations to participate in this meeting because of that disability should
contact the Office of the Cite Clerk, (305) 466-8901 or cityclerl�,(-I"cityofaventura.com, not later than two days prior
to such proceedings. One or more members of the Cite of Aventura Advisonv Boards may participate in the meeting.
Anyone wishing to appeal any decision made by the Aventura Cite Commissiow acting in its capacity as the
Page 1 of 2
Aventura Governing Board Meeting Agenda May 21, 2026
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
Governing Board for the Aventma City of Excellence School (ACES) and the Don Soffer Aventura High School
(DSAHS), with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing will need a record of the proceedings and,
for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the
testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Agenda items are available online at cityofaventum.com
for viewing and printing, or may be requested through the Office of the City Clerk at (305) 466-8901 or
cityclerk@cityofaventura. com.
Page 2 of 2
4 5YC �
AVENTURA
HIGH SCHOUL
AVENTURA GOVERNING BOARD
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL AND
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
APRIL 23, 2026
9:00 a.m.
Aventura Government Center
19200 West Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 33180
Aventura City Commission acting in its capacity as the Governing Board for the Aventura
City of Excellence School (ACES) and the Don Soffer Aventura High School (DSAHS):
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL: The meeting was called to order by Mayor
Howard Weinberg at 9:04 a.m. The roll was called and the following were present: Mayor
Howard S. Weinberg, Commissioner Clifford B. Ain, Commissioner Gustavo Blachman,
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland, Commissioner Paul A. Kruss, Commissioner Cindy
Orlinsky, City Manager Bryan Pegues, City Clerk Ellisa L. Horvath, and City Attorney
Robert Meyers. Vice Mayor Amit Bloom was absent. Also present were ACES Principal
Dr. Andrea Beck, and Rachel Windler-Freitag — Charter Schools USA Vice President
Research, Development and Innovation. As a quorum was determined to be present, the
meeting commenced.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge was led by Mayor Weinberg.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: A motion for approval of the January 22, 2026
Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting Minutes was offered by Commissioner
Kruss, seconded by Commissioner Friedland, and passed unanimously by roll call vote.
4. SCHOOL UPDATES:
• Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES): Principal Dr. Andrea Beck
provided updates including the following items: enrol lment/waitlist, gradual increase in
capacity amount, Middle School athletics, Night of Excellence fundraiser event, Teacher
Appreciation Week, and end -of -year events.
The City Commission provided input on the items including: Mayor's attendance at the
Teacher Appreciation lunch, take your child to work day participant numbers, testing on
the same day as a nationally recognized day, scheduling conflicts with CSUSA retreat,
and commending Dr. Beck.
Principal Dr. Beck provided responses to questions asked.
Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting Minutes
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
April 23, 2026
No comments were provided by members of the public.
• Don Soffer Aventura High School (DSAHS): Ms. Windler-Freitag, on behalf
of Principal Dr. Geoff McKee, provided updates including the following items: Dr. McKee
not in attendance due to the first day of Cambridge testing, thanking Commissioner
Orlinsky and Mr. Pegues on their assistance in improving the food quality/selection,
Teacher Appreciation Week, robotics, art exhibit, drama production of Grease, SAT
testing, SAT spring boot camp, college acceptances, end -of -year testing, sports updates,
and graduation (May 26).
The City Commission provided input on the items.
Ms. Windler-Freitag provided responses to questions asked.
No comments were provided by members of the public.
5. ORDINANCES — FIRST READING/PUBLIC INPUT:
Ms. Horvath read the following Ordinance title:
A. AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION, ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING
BOARD FOR THE AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL (ACES):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE ATTACHED
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027 (JULY 1 — JUNE 30), PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF
THE CITY CHARTER; AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY
THE BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL; PROVIDING FOR
PERSONNEL AUTHORIZATION; PROVIDING FOR GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING
FOR AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
A motion to approve the Ordinance was offered by Commissioner Ain and seconded by
Commissioner Orlinsky.
Mr. Pegues provided brief comments on the $15.25 million budget for ACES, without a
subsidy from the City for the first time.
Ayanna Jeffrey, Senior Accounting Analyst - Charter Schools USA, reviewed highlights
of the budget as follows: Key Assumptions, Financial Summary, Enrollment Breakdown,
Revenue, Compensation Expense, Professional & Vendor Services, School
Administration & Instructional Expenses, Other Operating & Fixed Expenses, and Capital
Expenses & Debt Repayment. The ACES Instructional Pay -for -Performance Plan was
also distributed as part of the budget.
The City Commission discussed the item including the following: merit increase, FL
teacher lead program, referendum money on the ballot, prior litigation for referendum
money, and commending former Mayor Enid Weisman.
Page 2 of 4
Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting Minutes
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
April 23, 2026
Mayor Weinberg opened the public hearing.
The following member of the public provided comments: Enid Weisman (former Mayor).
There being no additional speakers, the public hearing was closed.
The motion to approve the Ordinance on first reading passed unanimously (6-0) by roll
call vote, with Vice Mayor Bloom absent.
Ms. Horvath read the following Ordinance title:
B. AVENTURA CITY COMMISSION, ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE GOVERNING
BOARD FOR THE DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL (DSAHS):
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE ATTACHED
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027 (JULY 1 — JUNE 30), PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF THE
CITY CHARTER; AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY THE
BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL; PROVIDING FOR PERSONNEL
AUTHORIZATION; PROVIDING FOR GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING FOR
AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
A motion to approve the Ordinance was offered by Commissioner Friedland and
seconded by Commissioner Blachman.
Mr. Pegues provided brief comments on the $12.3 million budget for DSAHS.
Ayanna Jeffrey, Senior Accounting Analyst - Charter Schools USA, reviewed highlights
of the budget as follows: Key Assumptions, Financial Summary, Enrollment Breakdown,
Revenue, Compensation Expense, Professional & Vendor Services, School
Administration & Instructional Expenses, Other Operating & Fixed Expenses, and Capital
Expenses & Debt Repayment. The DSAHS Instructional Pay -for -Performance Plan was
also distributed as part of the budget.
The City Commission discussed the item including the following: the need to hire a college
counselor, college prep high school, breakdown of increased management fees, and
iPads/computers provided by the school.
Mayor Weinberg opened the public hearing. There being no speakers, the public hearing
was closed.
The motion to approve the Ordinance on first reading passed unanimously (6-0) by roll
call vote, with Vice Mayor Bloom absent.
6. APPROVAL OF 2026-2027 GOVERNING BOARD MEETING SCHEDULE:
Mayor Weinberg introduced the item.
Page 3 of 4
Aventura Governing Board Regular Meeting Minutes
Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School
April 23, 2026
A motion for approval was offered by Commissioner Kruss and seconded by
Commissioner Orlinsky.
Mr. Pegues and Ms. Windler-Freitag reviewed the schedule.
No comments were provided by the City Commission.
No comments were provided by members of the public.
The motion for approval passed unanimously by roll call vote.
7. APPROVAL OF FY 2026-2027 CSUSA INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE AND
SAFETY POLICY FOR ACES AND DSAHS: Mayor Weinberg introduced the item.
A motion for approval was offered by Commissioner Friedland and seconded by
Commissioner Blachman.
Mr. Pegues reviewed the item, as required by the District.
No comments were provided by the City Commission.
No comments were provided by members of the public.
The motion for approval passed unanimously by roll call vote.
8. OTHER BUSINESS: None.
9. PUBLIC COMMENT: No members of the public provided comments:
10. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the
Commission as the Governing Board, a motion to adjourn was offered by Commissioner
Blachman, seconded by Commissioner Kruss, and unanimously approved; thus,
adjourning the meeting at 10:02 a.m.
Ellisa L. Horvath, MMC, City Clerk
Approved by the City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board for ACES
and DSAHS, on May 21, 2026.
Page 4 of 4
CITY OF AVENTURA
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board
for the Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES)
FROM: Bryan Pegues, City Manager
BY: Melissa Cruz, Finance Director
DATE: April 17, 2026
SUBJECT: Ordinance Adopting Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Aventura City of
Excellence School (ACES) Charter School Fund Budget
April 23, 2026 ACES Governing Board Meeting Agenda (First Reading)
May 21, 2026 ACES Governing Board Meeting Agenda (Second Reading)
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board
for ACES, approve the attached Ordinance adopting the 2026/2027 Aventura City of
Excellence School (ACES) Charter School Fund Budget. The document will be reviewed
in detail at the April 23, 2026 ACES Governing Board Meeting.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Attachment
CITY OF AVENTURA ORDINANCE NO. 2026-
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING
THE ATTACHED AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL
OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027
(JULY 1 — JUNE 30), PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF THE CITY
CHARTER; AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED
BY THE BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL;
PROVIDING FOR PERSONNEL AUTHORIZATION; PROVIDING FOR
GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING
FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The 2026/2027 Operating and Capital Improvement Program Budget
for the Aventura City of Excellence School, a copy of said budget being attached hereto
and made a part hereof as specifically as if set forth at length herein, be and the same is
hereby established and adopted.
Section 2. Expenditure of Funds Appropriated in the Budget Authorized. Funds
appropriated in the Budget may be expended by and with the approval of the City Manager
in accordance with the provisions of the City Charter and applicable law. Funds of the City
shall be expended in accordance with the appropriations provided in the Budget adopted by
this Ordinance and shall constitute an appropriation of the amounts specified therein.
Supplemental appropriations or the reduction of appropriations, if any, shall be made in
accordance with Section 4.07 of the City Charter.
Section 3. Budgetary Control. The Budget establishes a limitation on
expenditures by department total. Said limitation requires that the total sum allocated to the
Charter School Fund may not be increased or decreased without specific authorization by
a duly -enacted Resolution affecting such amendment or transfer. Therefore, if requested by
the Principal of the Aventura City of Excellence School, the City Manager may authorize
transfers from one individual line item account to another, so long as the line item accounts
are within the same department and fund.
Section 4. Personnel Authorization. The "Personnel Allocation Summary"
enumerates all authorized budgeted positions. However, if requested by the Principal of the
City of Aventura Ordinance No. 2026-
Aventura City of Excellence School, the City Manager may amend said authorized budgeted
positions in order to address the operating needs of the department so long as sufficient
budgeted funds are available.
Section 5. Grants and Gifts. When the City of Aventura receives monies from any
source, be it private or governmental, by Grant, Gift, or otherwise, to which there is attached
as a condition of acceptance any limitation regarding the use or expenditures of the monies
received, the funds so received need not be shown in the Operating Budget nor shall said
budget be subject to amendment of expenditures as a result of the receipt of said monies,
but said monies shall only be disbursed and applied toward the purposes for which the said
funds were received. To ensure the integrity of the Operating Budget, and the integrity of
the monies received by the City under Grants or Gifts, all monies received as contemplated
above must, upon receipt, be segregated and accounted for based upon generally accepted
accounting principles and where appropriate, placed into separate and individual trust
and/or escrow accounts from which any money drawn may only be disbursed and applied
within the limitations placed upon the Gift or Grant as aforesaid.
Section 6. Amendments. Upon the passage and adoption of the Charter School
Fund Budget for the City of Aventura, if the City Manager determines that the Department
Total will exceed its original appropriation, the City Manager is hereby authorized and
directed to prepare such Ordinances as may be necessary and proper to modify any line
item from the Budget hereby.
Section 7. Encumbrances. All outstanding encumbrances on June 30, 2026 shall
lapse at that time; and all capital outlay encumbrances and/or capital outlay expenditures
not spent during the fiscal year may be re -appropriated in the 2026/2027 fiscal year.
Section 8. Severability. The provisions of this Ordinance are declared to be
severable and if any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance shall for any
reason be held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of
the remaining sections, sentences, clauses, and phrases of this Ordinance but they shall
remain in effect, it being the legislative intent that this Ordinance shall stand notwithstanding
the invalidity of any part.
Section 9. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be effective immediately upon
adoption on second reading.
Page 2 of 4
City of Aventura Ordinance No. 2026-
The foregoing Ordinance was offered by Commissioner Ain, who moved its
adoption on first reading. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Orlinsky, and upon
being put to a vote, the vote was as follows:
Commissioner Clifford B. Ain Yes
Commissioner Gustavo Blachman Yes
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland Yes
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss Yes
Commissioner Cindy Orlinsky Yes
Vice Mayor Amit Bloom Absent
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg Yes
The foregoing Ordinance was offered by Commissioner , who moved its
adoption on second reading. This motion was seconded by Commissioner
and upon being put to a vote, the vote was as follows:
Commissioner Gustavo Blachman
Commissioner Amit Bloom
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss
Commissioner Cindy Orlinsky
Vice Mayor Clifford B. Ain
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg
PASSED on first reading this 23rd day of April, 2026.
PASSED AND ADOPTED on second reading this 21 st day of May, 2026.
Page 3 of 4
City of Aventura Ordinance No. 2026-
HOWARD S. WEINBERG, ESQ.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
ELLISA L. HORVATH, MMC
CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO LEGAL SUFFICIENCY:
ROBERT MEYERS
CITY ATTORNEY
WEISS SEROTA HELFMAN COLE + BIERMAN, P.L.
Page 4 of 4
Aventura City of Excellence
School
FY 2027 Budget
April 23, 2026
Key Assumptions
■ FEFP per student is flat year -over -year: $8,819.
■ Enrollment is budgeted at 1140 students.
■ Headcount remains flat year -over -year at 98.5 positions
■ Capital Outlay rate increased as per FDOE guidance.
■ Federal Revenues budgeted relate to Title IV- $27.5K.
■ Referendum Stipends revenue: estimated FY27 allocation is $1.9M. In addition to salary
supplements, safety and security related expenses are covered by these revenues.
■ Base salaries include Merit increases of 2%.
Financial Summary
......
BudgetCategory
...Proposed
,.
Budget
.
Operating Revenue
13,148,207
13, 242, 053
14, 988,224
1,840,017
14%
Proceedsfrom Long Term Debt -
Lease
153,695
121,470
261,705
108,010
70%
City Subsidy (Advance from the City's
General Fund)
Total Revenues
700,000
14,001,902
700,000
14,063,523
-
15,249,929
(700,000)
1,248,027
-100%
9%
Operating Expenditures
13,659,077
14,089,750
14,696,698
(1,037,621)
-8%
Capital Expenditures
286,470
350,073
415,357
(128,887)
-45%
Repayment of Debt
56,355
45,097
137,875
(81,520)
-145%
Total Expenditures
14,001,902
14,484,920
15,249,929
(1,248,027)
-9%
Revenues over/(under)
Expenditures
-
(421,397)
-
-
0%
.I
Enrollment Breakdown
120
118
120
1st
115
122
157
42
115
117
12
3rd
115
119
127
12
4th
115
119
127
12
5th
115
115
127
12
6th
115
114
127
12
7th
112
108
117
5
Bth
110
108
111
1
Total
1032
1039
1140
108 10.
Budget Highlights
■ Enrollment is budgeted to increase by 10.5% to 1140
students.
Consolidated Financial Report
Enrollment
FEFP rate per Student
1,032 1,039
$ 8,963 $ 8,819 $
Revenue
Budget Highlights
1,140 108.0 10%
8,819 $ (144) -2% Rate per FTE is kept flat to the FY 2025-2026 forecast.
REVENUE:
FTE
$ 9,249,943 $
9,093,595 $
10,053,660
$ 803,717
9% 0
Capital Outlay
1,720,344
1,550,844
2,155,147
434,803
25% 0
NSLP Revenue (National School Lunch Program)
78,022
121,613
129,986
51,964
67% ■
Food Service Revenue
140,000
192,054
235,320
95,320
68%
Grants - Federal/State/Local
-
71,484
27,523
27,523
0% ■
Before and Aftercare Revenue
175,000
180,513
198,156
23,156
13%
Miscellaneous Revenues
123,337
123,337
213,337
90,000
73% ■
Other Program Revenue
-
109,370
-
-
0%
Referendum Stipends
1,661,561
1,799,243
1,975,096
313,534
19% ■
Subtotal Operating Revenue
$ 13,148,207 $
13,242,053 $
14,988,224
$ 1,840,017
14%
Other Non -Revenue
Proceeds from Long Term Debt- Lease
Advance from the City's General Fund
TOTAL REVENUE
AN
153,695 121,470 261,705 108,010 70%
700,000 700,000 - (700,000) -100%
$ 14,001,902 $ 14,063,523 $ 15,249,929 $ 1,248,027 9%
■
■
State Capitation increased with enrollment.
Capital Outlay increased as per FDOE guidance.
Food Service and Before/Aftercare Revenues increased with enrollment.
Federal Grants: Title IV grant in FY27.
Miscellaneous revenues include billboard advertising revenues and
interest income.
Referendum Stipends are budgeted at the same rate per FTE as FY26.
Lease proceeds relate to computer equipment required.
City contribution budgeted at $0 in FY27.
Compensation Expense
Consolidated Financial Report
°
• ' •'
i i
EXPENDITURES
Administrative Staff
Principal
1.0
1.0
1.0
Assistant Principal
2.0
2.0
2.0
School Operations Administrator
1.0
1.0
1.0
Administrative Assistant
3.0
3.0
3.0
Receptionist
1.0
1.0
1.0
Enrollment Management
1.0
1.0
1.0
Guidance Counselor
3.0
3.0
2.0
Dean of Curriculum/Dean of Students
1.0
1.0
1.0
IT Support
1.0
1.0
1.0
Hall Monitor
4.0
4.0
4.0
Subtotal Administrative Staff
18.0 $ 1,215,670
18.0 $ 1,217,845
17.0 $ 1,199,376 $ 16,294 1 %
Budget Highlights
Instruction Staff
Teachers
ESE/Special Education Teachers
68.0
6.0
62.0
5.5
64.0
4.5
Curriculum Resource Teacher
3.0
3.0
4.0
Instructional Aides
3.0
6.0
6.0
Subs
1.0
4.0
3.0
Subtotal Instructional Staff
81.0
$
4,741,836
80.5
$ 4,750,893
.5
$ 4,881,625
$
(139,789)
-3%
■ Base compensation includes Merit increase of 2%.
Tutoring
$
16,625
$ 46,701
$ 60,125
$
(43,500)
-262%
Bonuses
52,911
133,608
57,613
(4,701)
-9%
Stipends
1,358,267
1,476,004
1,593,045
(234,778)
-17%
■ Stipends increase is in line with increased
Benefits
890,514
922,260
922,844
(32,329)
-4%
Referendum revenues.
Payroll Taxes
586,647
578,406
610,123
(23,476)
-4%
Subtotal Other Compensation -
Group Insurance, Benefits, and Payroll Taxes
$
2,904,965
$ 3,156,980
$ 3,243,749
$
(338,784)
-12 %
Total Compensation
99.0
$
8,862,471
98.5
$ 9,125,718
98.5
$ 9,324,750
$
(462,279)
-5%
l-:
Professional &Vendor Services
Consolidated Financial Report
= • • 4 •.
Variance
- -nce
Professional Services
Management Fee
$ 977,116
$ 977,116
$ 1,775,787 $
(798,671)
-82%
Legal Fees
9,900
9,900
9,900
-
0%
Fee to County Board
44,816
41,945
44,095
721
2%
Outside Staff Development
45,050
40,845
44,500
550
1 %
Accounting Services -Audit
11,000
11,000
11,000
-
0%
Professional Fees - Other
21,637
20,888
27,980
(6,343)
-29%
Computer Services Fees
207,432
207,432
238,260
(30,828)
-15%
Advertising/Marketing Expenditure
10,144
8,814
8,721
1,424
14%
Subtotal Professional Services
$ 1,327,095
$ 1,317,939
$ 2,160,243 $
(833,148)
-63%
Vendor Services
Contracted Pupil Transportation
$ 458,316
$ 444,951
$ 418,822 $
39,494
9%
Contracted Mental Health Services
106,510
81,024
83,943
22,567
21 %
Extra -Curricular Activity Events & Transportation
44,450
44,568
44,468
(18)
0%
Contracted Food Services
230,000
255,132
275,068
(45,068)
-20%
Drug Testing Fees
2,000
2,617
2,617
(617)
-31%
Licenses & Permits
2,365
2,366
2,365
-
0%
Contacted Custodial Services
416,325
416,325
507,141
(90,816)
-22%
Contracted Security
219,235
209,255
159,319
59,916
27%
Subtotal Vendor Services
$ 1,479,201
$ 1,456,237
$ 1,493,744 $
(14,543)
4%
I
Budget Highlights
■ Management fees are at contractual level (12%).
■ Computer Service Fees increased in line with enrollment.
■ Transportation costs are lower based on negotiation with service
provider.
■ Mental Health expense is budgeted based on anticipated student
needs.
■ Food Service expense increased with enrollment.
■ Custodial Services include increases to cover additional cleaning
required for use of school facilities for community activities/events.
School Administration & Instructional Expenses
Consolidated Financial Report
Administration Expenditures
Travel
Meals
Lodging
Business Expenditures- Other
Dues & Subscriptions
Printing
Office Supplies
Subtotal Administration Expenditures
Instructional Expenditures
Textbooks & Reference Books
Consumable Instructional (Student)
Consumable Instructional (Teacher)
Instructional Licenses
Testing Materials
Florida Teacher Lead Program
Contracted SPED Instruction
$ 7,750 $
8,368 $
8,368 $
(618)
-8%
250
3,030
3,030
(2,780)
-1112%
5,000
5,000
5,000
-
0%
11,892
12,097
11,892
-
0%
10,550
10,383
10,550
-
0%
52,500
52,500
52,500
-
0%
12,200
12,200
12,200
-
0%
$ 100,142 $
103,577 $
103,540 $
(3,398)
-3%
$ 57,275 $
57,275 $
44,948 $
12,327
22%
11,000
11,000
21,000
(10,000)
-91 %
350
248
350
-
0%
109,609
60,058
89,524
20,085
18%
1,650
1,650
1,150
500
30%
-
22,500
-
-
0%
75,000
72,019
65,000
10,000
13%
Subtotal Instructional Expenditures $ 254,884 $ 224,751 $ 221,972 $ 32,912 13%
Budget Highlights
■ Instruction expenses are based on assessed
student needs.
Other Operating & Fixed Expenses
Consolidated Financial Report
• '
= 1
Variance Variance
Other Operating Expenditures
Telephone & Internet
$ 57,194
$ 51,471
$ 68,271 $
(11,077)
-19%
Postage
5,258
6,495
6,696
(1,438)
-27%
Electricity
154,665
152,837
154,665
0%
Water& Sewer
47,940
65,580
47,940
-
0%
Waste Disposal
19,173
29,218
20,131
(959)
-5%
Pest Control
8,865
5,329
8,865
-
0%
Cleaning Services
88,417
76,504
88,417
-
0%
Building Repairs & Maintenance
600,789
734,938
353,606
247,183
41 %
Equipment Repairs & Maintenance
-
-
3,000
(3,000)
0%
Bank Charges & Loan Fees
1,214
3,697
3,697
(2,483)
Property Taxes
45
1,468
1,468
(1,423)
Temp Agency & Staff Recruitment Fees
47,665
89,670
52,078
(4,413)
-9%
Subtotal Other Operating Expenditures
$ 1,031,225
$ 1,217,206
$ 808,834 $
222,391
22%
Fixed Expenditures
Office Equipment - Leasing Expenditures $ 24,624 $ 32,233 $ 24,624 $ - 0%
Professional Liability & Other Insurance $ 135,435 $ 168,089 $ 114,991 $ 20,444 15%
Subtotal Fixed Expenditures $ 160,059 $ 200,322 $ 139,615 $ 20,444 13%
Rent Expense $ 444,000 $ 444,000 $ 444,000 $
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENDITURES
0%
$ 13,659,077 $ 14,089,750 $ 14,696,698 $ (1,037,621) -8%
Budget Highlights
■ Prior year BR&M budget includes $330K for AC units
rebuild.
Insurance cost is budgeted based on latest available
rates with an increase of 7%.
Capital Expenses & Debt Repayment
Consolidated Financial Report BIDGET FORECAST: I D
Capital Expenditures
Computers - Hardware $ 185,415 $ 225,923 $ 274,902 $ (89,487) -48%
IT Infrastructure - 6,747 25,000 (25,000) 0%
Audio Visual Equipment 61,900 62,797 17,955 43,945 71%
FF&E 12,500 12,570 12,500 - 0%
Improvements Otherthan Building 26,655 42,035 85,000 (58,345) -219%
Budget Highlights
Total Capital Expenditures
$ 286,470
$
350,073
$
415,357
$
(128,887)
45% FY 27 budget includes refresh of computer
hardware for students and staff, interactive
Total Operating and Capital Expenditures
$ 13,945,547
$
14,439,823
$
15,112,055
$
(1,166,508)
-8% displays and a fire panel upgrade.
Revenue over/(under) Expenditures
$ 56,355
$
(376,300)
$
137,875
$
81,519
145%
Long term Debt Repayment
$ 51,232
$
41,254
$
122,622
$
(71,390)
-139%
Interest Payment
5,123
3,843
15,253
(10,130)
-198%
Total Long Term Debt & Interest Repayment $ 56,355 $
45,097 $
137,875 $ (81,520) -145% Payments relate to finance leases used to
purchase IT equipment.
Total Operating, Capital Expenditures &
Debt Repayment $ 14,001,902 $ 14,484,920 $ 15,249,929 $ (1,248,027) -9%
Change in Fund Balance $ - $ (421,397) $
1
7
$ - 0%
151A011SNED 2003
3333 NE 188th Street
Aventura, Florida 33180
Office Telephone: (305) 466-1499
Website: www.aventuracharter.org
■�� Am--)■
CITY OF AVENTURA
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board
for the Don Soffer Aventura High School (DSAHS)
FROM: Bryan Pegues, City Manager
BY: Melissa Cruz, Finance Director mL
DATE: April 17, 2026
SUBJECT: Ordinance Adopting Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Don Soffer Aventura High
School (DSAHS) Budget
April 23, 2026 DSAHS Governing Board Meeting Agenda (First Reading)
May 21, 2026 DSAHS Governing Board Meeting Agenda (Second Reading)
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Commission, acting in its capacity as the Governing Board
for the DSAHS, approve the attached Ordinance adopting the 2026/2027 Don Soffer
Aventura High School Budget. The document will be reviewed in detail at the April 23,
2026 DSAHS Governing Board Meeting.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Attachment
CITY OF AVENTURA ORDINANCE NO. 2026-
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING
THE ATTACHED DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL
OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027
(JULY 1 — JUNE 30), PURSUANT TO SECTION 4.05 OF THE CITY
CHARTER; AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED
BY THE BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR BUDGETARY CONTROL;
PROVIDING FOR PERSONNEL AUTHORIZATION; PROVIDING FOR
GIFTS AND GRANTS; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING
FOR ENCUMBRANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF AVENTURA, FLORIDA, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The 2026/2027 Operating and Capital Improvement Program Budget
for the Don Soffer Aventura High School, a copy of said budget being attached hereto
and made a part hereof as specifically as if set forth at length herein, be and the same is
hereby established and adopted.
Section 2. Expenditure of Funds Appropriated in the Budget Authorized. Funds
appropriated in the Budget may be expended by and with the approval of the City Manager
in accordance with the provisions of the City Charter and applicable law. Funds of the City
shall be expended in accordance with the appropriations provided in the Budget adopted by
this Ordinance and shall constitute an appropriation of the amounts specified therein.
Supplemental appropriations or the reduction of appropriations, if any, shall be made in
accordance with Section 4.07 of the City Charter.
Section 3. Budgetary Control. The Budget establishes a limitation on
expenditures by department total. Said limitation requires that the total sum allocated to the
Don Soffer Aventura High School Fund may not be increased or decreased without specific
authorization by a duly -enacted Resolution affecting such amendment or transfer.
Therefore, if requested by the Principal of Don Soffer Aventura High School, the City
Manager may authorize transfers from one individual line item account to another, so long
as the line item accounts are within the same department and fund.
Section 4. Personnel Authorization. The "Personnel Allocation Summary"
enumerates all authorized budgeted positions. However, if requested by the Principal of Don
City of Aventura Ordinance No. 2026-
Soffer Aventura High School, the City Manager may amend said authorized budgeted
positions in order to address the operating needs of the department so long as sufficient
budgeted funds are available.
Section 5. Grants and Gifts. When the City of Aventura receives monies from any
source, be it private or governmental, by Grant, Gift, or otherwise, to which there is attached
as a condition of acceptance any limitation regarding the use or expenditures of the monies
received, the funds so received need not be shown in the Operating Budget nor shall said
budget be subject to amendment of expenditures as a result of the receipt of said monies,
but said monies shall only be disbursed and applied toward the purposes for which the said
funds were received. To ensure the integrity of the Operating Budget, and the integrity of
the monies received by the City under Grants or Gifts, all monies received as contemplated
above must, upon receipt, be segregated and accounted for based upon generally accepted
accounting principles and where appropriate, placed into separate and individual trust
and/or escrow accounts from which any money drawn may only be disbursed and applied
within the limitations placed upon the Gift or Grant as aforesaid.
Section 6. Amendments. Upon the passage and adoption of the Don Soffer
Aventura High School Fund Budget for the City of Aventura, if the City Manager determines
that the Department Total will exceed its original appropriation, the City Manager is hereby
authorized and directed to prepare such Ordinances as may be necessary and proper to
modify any line item from the Budget hereby.
Section 7. Encumbrances. All outstanding encumbrances on June 30, 2026 shall
lapse at that time; and all capital outlay encumbrances and/or capital outlay expenditures
not spent during the fiscal year may be re -appropriated in the 2026/2027 fiscal year.
Section 8. Severability. The provisions of this Ordinance are declared to be
severable and if any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance shall for any
reason be held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of
the remaining sections, sentences, clauses, and phrases of this Ordinance but they shall
remain in effect, it being the legislative intent that this Ordinance shall stand notwithstanding
the invalidity of any part.
Section 9. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be effective immediately upon
adoption on second reading.
Page 2 of 4
City of Aventura Ordinance No. 2026-
The foregoing Ordinance was offered by Commissioner Friedland, who moved its
adoption on first reading. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Blachman, and
upon being put to a vote, the vote was as follows:
Commissioner Clifford B. Ain Yes
Commissioner Gustavo Blachman Yes
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland Yes
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss Yes
Commissioner Cindy Orlinsky Yes
Vice Mayor Amit Bloom Absent
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg Yes
The foregoing Ordinance was offered by Commissioner , who moved its
adoption on second reading. This motion was seconded by Commissioner
and upon being put to a vote, the vote was as follows:
Commissioner Gustavo Blachman
Commissioner Amit Bloom
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss
Commissioner Cindy Orlinsky
Vice Mayor Clifford B. Ain
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg
PASSED on first reading this 23rd day of April, 2026.
PASSED AND ADOPTED on second reading this 21St day of May, 2026.
Page 3 of 4
City of Aventura Ordinance No. 2026-
HOWARD S. WEINBERG, ESQ.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
ELLISA L. HORVATH, MMC
CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO LEGAL SUFFICIENCY:
ROBERT MEYERS
CITY ATTORNEY
WEISS SEROTA HELFMAN COLE + BIERMAN, P.L.
Page 4 of 4
Don Soffer Aventura High
School
FY 2027 Budget
April 23, 2026
Key Assumptions
■ FEFP per student is flat year -over -year: $7,920.
■ Enrollment is budgeted at 837 students.
■ Headcount is budgeted at 66 positions.
■ Capital Outlay rate increased as per FDOE guidance.
■ Federal Revenues budgeted relate to Title IV- $22.2K.
■ Referendum Stipends revenue: $1.4M- estimated FY27 allocation. In addition to
salary supplements, safety and security related expenses are covered by these
revenues.
■ Base salaries include Merit increases of 2%.
Financial Summary
Category
Operating Revenue
Adopted
Budget
11,312,557
Projected
Forecast
11,642,670
2026127
Proposed
Budget
12,296,323
VAR Bud 26 v
Bud 27
983,767
VAR %
9%
Proceeds from Long Term Debt- Lease
-
48,275
-
-
0%
City Subsidy (Advance from the City's
General Fund
Total Revenues
Operating Expenditures
11,312,557
10,665,792
11,690,945
10,835,225
12,296,323
11,965,018
983,767
(1,299,226)
9%
-12%
Capital Expenditures
139,124
1 186,357
315,265
(176,141)
-127%
Repayment of Debt
-
16,039
16,040
(16,040)
0%
Total Expenditures
10,804,916
11,037,621
12,296,323
(1,491,407)
-14%
Revenues over/(under) Expenditures
507,640
653,324
-
(507,640)
-100%
.4
Enrollment Breakdown
9th
10th
210
210
242
213
222
222
12
12
11th
205
196
218
13
12th
175
185
175
-
Total
800
835
837
37 4.6%
.10
Budget Highlights
■ Enrollment is budgeted to increase by 4.6% to 837
students.
Revenue
ADOPTEEM
Consolidated Financial Report BUDGET
2025-2026
Budget Highlights
Enrollment 800 835 837 37 5%
FEFP rate per Student $ 8,094 $ 7,920 $ 7,920 $ (174) -2% Rate per FTE is kept flat to the FY 2025-2026 forecast.
REVENUE:
FTE
$ 6,475,204
$ 6,613,578
$ 6,629,419 $
154,215
2%
Capital Outlay
1,333,600
1,233,150
1,582,332
248,732
19%
NSLP Revenue (National School Lunch Program)
140,000
131,453
131,768
(8,232)
-6%
Food Service Revenue
47,945
54,028
54,157
6,212
13%
Grants - Federal/State/Local
-
61,055
22,252
22,252
0%
Miscellaneous Revenues
27,760
25,746
76,260
48,500
175% '
Other Program Revenue
■
AP/AICE
2,000,000
2,068,327
2,350,000
350,000
18%
Referendum Stipends
1,288,048
1,455,333
1,450,136
162,088
13%
Subtotal Operating Revenue
$ 11,312,557
$ 11,642,670
$ 12,296,323 $
983,767
9%
State Capitation increased with enrollment.
Capital Outlay increased as per FDOE guidance.
Federal Grants: Title IV grant in FY27.
Miscellaneous revenues include interest income.
Referendum Stipends are budgeted at the same rate per FTE as FY26.
Other Non- Revenue Lease proceeds relate to computer equipment required.
Proceeds from Long Term Debt- Lease - 48,275 - - 0% ■
TOTAL REVENUE $ 11,312,557 $ 11,690,945 $ 12,296,323 $ 983,767 9%
Compensation Expense
Consolidated Financial Report
ADOPTED,
BUDGET
2025-2026
EXPENDITURES
Administrative Staff
Principal
1.0
Assistant Principal
3.0
School Operations Administrator
1.0
Administrative Assistant
2.0
Receptionist
1.0
Enrollment Management
1.0
Guidance Counselor
2.0
IT Support
1.0
1.0
4.0
1.0
2.0
1.0
1.0
3.0
1.0
Budget Highlights
Subtotal Administrative Staff
14.0 $
1,021,788 13.a 917,487
1 $ 1,092,009 $ (70,221) -7%
Instruction Staff
Teachers
43.0
45.0
ESE/Special Education Teachers
2.0
2.0
Curriculum Resource Teacher
1.0
1.0
Athletic Director
1.0
143,025,657
1.0
Subs
2.0
2.0
Subtotal Instructional Staff
49.
3,226,083
51 $ 3,336,430 $ (110,347) 3% ■ Base compensation includes Merit increase of 2%.
Tutoring
1r$
76,862
IS
76,862
$ 76,862
$ -
0%
Bonuses
132,270
268,367
238,583
(106,313)
-80%
Stipends
1,220,533
1,375,655
1,424,934
(204,401)
-17%
Benefits
450,425
425,874
483,016
(32,590)
-7%
Workers' Compensation
23,368
14,492
23,368
-
0%
Payroll Taxes
445,670
470,397
482,005
(36,334)
-8%
Subtotal Other Compensation -
Group Insurance, Benefits, and Payroll Taxes
$
2,349,129
$
2,631,647
$ 2,728,767
$ (379,638)
-16%
Total Compensation
63.0 $
6,597,000
62.0 $
6,577,791
66.0 $ 7,157,206
$ (560,206)
-8%
■ Bonuses include an increase payout for AP/AICE.
■ Stipends increase is in line with increased Referendum
revenues.
Professional &Vendor Services
ADOPTED
Consolidated Financial Report BUDGET
2025-2026
Professional Services
Management Fee
$ 905,005 $
905,005
$ 1,475,559
$ (570,554)
-63%
Legal Fees
11,529
11,529
11,529
-
0%
Fee to County Board
101,175
96,505
54,290
46,885
46%
Outside Staff Development
73,854
73,854
76,397
(2,543)
-3%
Accounting Services -Audit
11,900
12,523
12,523
(623)
-5%
Professional Fees - Other
18,300
18,300
43,140
(24,840)
-136%
Computer Services Fees
160,800
167,835
174,933
(14,133)
-9%
Advertising/Marketing Expenditure
16,363
16,363
15,084
1,280
8%
Subtotal Professional Services
$ 1,298,926 $
1,301,913
$ 1,863,454
$ (564,528)
-43%
Vendor Services
Contracted Pupil Transportation
$ 199,595 $
199,595
$ 206,626
$ (7,031)
-4%
Contracted Mental Health Services
68,385
68,385
68,385
-
0%
Extra -Curricular A ctivi ties
195,234
195,234
208,234
(13,000)
-7%
Contracted Food Services
163,809
179,511
179,941
(16,132)
-10%
Drug Testing Fees
665
665
665
-
0%
Licenses & Permits
2,012
2,012
2,012
-
0%
Contacted Custodial Services
269,536
269,536
283,012
(13,477)
-5%
Contracted Security
216,777
217,262
224,538
(7,761)
-4%
Subtotal Vendor Services
$ 1,116,013 $
1,132,200
$ 1,173,412
$ (57,399)
-5%
Budget Highlights
Management fees are at contractual level (12%).
Computer Service Fees increased in line with enrollment.
School Administration & Instructional Expenses
.. ' .
nsolidated Financial Re ort
:
i
Administration Expenditures
Travel
$ 14,871
Meals
1,034
Lodging
3,000
Business Expenditures -Other
1,287
Dues & Subscriptions
4,379
Pri nti ng
9,463
Office Supplies
17,194
Medical Supplies
2,610
Subtotal Administration Expenditures
$ 53,837
Instructional Expenditures
Textbooks & Reference Books
$ 44,084
Consumable Instructional (Student)
45,087
Consumable Instructional (Teacher)
-
Instructional Licenses
57,548
Testing Materials
563,600
Florida Teacher Lead Program
-
Contracted SPED Instruction
26,760
Subtotal Instructional Expenditures
$ 737,078
. I
$
15,737
$
15,737
$
(866)
-6%
2,255
2,255
(1,221)
-118%
3,500
3,500
(500)
-17%
965
965
322
25%
4,379
4,379
-
0%
10,252
10,252
(789)
-8%
17,194
17,605
(412)
-2%
2,610
2,610
-
0%
$
56,890
$
57,302
$
(3,465)
-6%
$
50,586
$
30,750
$
13,334
30%
49,758
52,013
(6,927)
-15%
5,492
3,000
(3,000)
0%
51,601
54,292
3,256
6%
563,500
575,474
(11,874)
-2%
12,600
-
-
0%
26,760
26,824
(64)
0%
$
760,297
$
742,352
$
(5,274)
-1%
Budget Highlights
Instruction expenses are based on assessed
student needs.
Other Operating & Fixed Expenses
ADOPTED,
Consolidated Financial Report BUDGET
0.
Other Operating Expenditures
Telephone & Internet
$ 33,963 $
31,864 $
62,164
Postage
2,476
2,476
2,535
Electricity
132,944
132,944
136,135
Water & Sewer
13,461
13,461
13,784
Waste Disposal
46,919
46,919
49,265
Pest Control
3,935
3,935
3,935
Cleaning Services
26,778
26,778
26,778
Building Repairs & Maintenance
211,489
413,837
259,968
Equipment Repairs & Maintenance
-
-
5,803
Personal Property Tax
-
3,150
3,150
Temporary Agency Fees
37,075
37,075
37,075
Subtotal Other Operating Expenditures
$ 509,041 $
712,439 $
600,592
Fixed Expenditures
Office Equipment - Leasing Expenditures
Professional Liability & Other Insurance
Subtotal Fixed Expenditures
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENDITURES
1,
$ (28,201) -83%
(59) -2%
(3,190) -2%
(323) -2%
(2,346) -5%
0%
0%
(48,479) -23%
(5,803) 0%
(3,150) 0%
- 0%
$ (91,551) .18%
Budget Highlights
■ Telephone & Internet expenses exclude any eRate
reimbursement in FY27.
■ BR&M budget includes some contingency for
maintenance projects.
$ 13,560
$
13,560
$
13,560
$ - 0%
$ 340,338
$
280,136
$
357,140
$ (16,802) -5% Insurance cost is budgeted based on latest available
$ 353,898
$
293,695
$
370,700
$ (16,802) .5% rates with an increase of 7%.
$ 10,665,792 $ 10,835,225 $ 11,965,018 $ (1,299,226) -12%
Capital Expenses & Debt Repayment
ADOPTED,. -. .PROPOSED,
Consolidated Financial Report
=
• -
BUDGET
2026-2026
�j
2026-2027 Variance
Variance
Capital Expenditures
Computers - Hardware
$ 90,673
$ 66,114
$ 85,605 $
5,068
6%
Computers - Software
25,000
20,720
180,000
(155,000)
-620%
IT Infrastructure
-
57,232
37,160
(37,160)
0%
FF&E
14,564
31,303
12,500
2,064
14%
Improvements Other than Building
8,887
10,987
-
8,887
100%
Total Capital Expenditures
$ 139,124
$ 186,357
$ 315,265 $
(176,141)
-127%
Total Operating and Capital Expenditures
Revenues over/(under) Expenditures
Long term Debt Repayment
Total Operating, Capital Expenditures & Debt
Repayment
Change in Fund Balance
$ 10,804,916 $ 11,021,582 $ 12,280,283 $ (1,475,367) -14%
$ 507,640 $ 669,363 $ 16,040 $ (491,600) -97%
$ -
$
16,039
$ 16,040
$
(16,040) 0%
$ 10,804,916
$
11,037,621
$ 12,296,323
$
(1,491,407) -14%
$ 507,640
$
653,324
$ -
$
(507,640) -100%
Budget Highlights
■ FY 27 budget includes refresh of computer
hardware for students and staff and a
Security system upgrade.
■ Payments relate to finance lease used to
purchase IT equipment.
3151 NE 213th Street Aventu ra,
Florida 33180
Office Telephone: (786) 481-3032
Website: https://aventuracharterhs.org/
UrA
CSUSA
11
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE SCHOOL
ACES
PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
2026-2027
ACES
I-ZA . •
FXCf�(ENCE SCHH��'
1�
AVENTURA CITY OF EXCELLENCE
3333 NE 1881" Street
Aventura, Florida 33180
Telephone : 305-466-1499
Fax: 305-466-1339
Website: www.aventuracharter.org
Board of Directors
Mayor Howard S. Weinberg, Esq.
Commissioner Clifford B. Ain
Commissioner Gustavo Blachman
Commissioner Amit Bloom
Commissioner Paul A. Kruss
Commissioner Rachel S. Friedland, Esq.
Commissioner Cindy Orlinsky
7City Manager
Bryan Pegues
Charter Schools USA Deputy Director
OF Rachel Windler-Freitag
Principal
Dr. Andrea Beck
1
� ftl
C�
SA
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.
2
Aventura City of Excellence School ACES
3333 NE 1881" Street
` Aventura, FL 33180
�P � 'IN I c
IN[EEIc 12
WELCOME LETTER FROM DR. BECK
TO BE ADDED OVER THE SUMMER
Table of Contents:
Page Number(s)
ACES SCHOOL CALENDAR 2026-2027
REPORT CARDS
ACES WELCOME
SCHOOL DIRECTORY
Click here to view the full school directory.
GOVERNING BOARD
The City of Aventura Commission serves as the Governing Board of
ACES. Click here to view the Governing Board directory and a listing of
meeting dates.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIE
SCHOOLHOURS
ARRIVAL POLICY
,,,
Student Drop -Off
ATTENDANCE
ABSENCES
EARLY DISMISSAL jj�
TARDY POLICY
General Dismissal Expectations
Same -Day Dismissal Chani
Car Rider Dismissal
Vehicle & Pickup Procedures
Walker Authorization & Dismissal Requirements
Weather Related Dismissal
Late Pickup & Aftercare Procedures
U.S. Transportation (School Bus Services)
Eligibility & Bus Assignment
Bus Conduct Expectations
Students Are Expected To:
Loss of Bus Privileges
Bus Stop Information
"STUDENT OF THE MONTH" AWARDS
PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES
STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS
DRESS CODE & UNIFORM POLICY
LABELS
4
6
7
7
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
10
10
11
12
13
13
13
14
14
14
15
15
15
16
16
16
16
16
17
17
18
19
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
FIELD TRIPS
CURRICULUM
GRADING
ACADEMIC HONESTY/HONOR CODE
PARENT PORTAL
HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
CONFERENCES
HONOR ROLL REQUIREMENTS
RECESS
`HOME LEARNING' POLICY
INSTRUCTIONAL BOOKS, EQUIPMEI
20
21
22
22
23
23
23
23
23
IC 24
24
RIALS, AND SUPPLIES
25
PROMOTION/RETENTION 25
HEALTH SERVICES 25
ILLNESS, ACCIDENT, AND MEDICAL EMERGENCY
SCREENINGS
MEDICATION
HEAD LICE
PARENT VOLUNTEER HOURS
PARENTS AND VISITORS ENTERING THE SCHOOL
STUDENT RECORDS/PARENT RIGHTS
COMMUNICATION POLICY/CONFLICT RESOLUTION
MEDIA CENTER
PARTIES
SCHOOL AFTERCARE INFORMATION
Emergency Aftercare
LUNCHES
LUNCH PROGRAM
SCHOOL RULES
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Level I — Corrective Strategies
Level II — Formal Disciplinary Actions
Level III — Serious Disciplinary Actions
BEFORE -SCHOOL AND AFTER -SCHOOL DETENTIONS
SATURDAY DETENTION
5
25
26
26
26
26
26
27
27
27
28
29
29
30
30
30
32
32
32
33
33
34
SUSPENDIBLE OFFENSES
PERMANENT DISMISSAL
BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY
34
35
35
REPORTING SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR OR THREATS 36
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
ONE-TO-ONE DEVICES
PARENT OBLIGATION 2026-2027
36
38
39
Aventura City of Excellence School POLICY AND PROCEDURES
PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION, INCLUDING SEXUAL AND OTHER FORMS
OF HARASSMENT 39
Parental Rights in Education Policy
ACES SCHOOL CALENDAR 2026-2
Dates when students are not in school:
September 7 Labor Day
September 21 Teacher Planning
October 19 Teacher Planning
November 11
Veterans Day
November 23-27
Thanksgiving Break
December 18
Teacher Planning
December 21 — January 1
Winter Recess
January 19
Martin Luther King Day
February 15
Presidents' Day
March 22-26
Spring Break
March 29
Teacher Planning
May 31
Memorial Day
June 4 J Teacher Planning k it
Early Release
August 13
September 18
October 29
November 20
December 3
February 12
March 19
April 23
June 2-3
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
6
46
REPORT CARDS
Report Cards Available on the District Student Portal:
November 1st Quarter Report Card
February 2nd Quarter Report Card
April V Quarter Report Card
June 4th Quarter Report Card
*Report cards will no longer be printed and sent home.
ACES WELCOME
ACES Eagles, the staff of 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 upon 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 soar to our highest heights in pursuit of excellence.
Non -Discrimination Notice
Aventura City of Excellence School does not discriminate on the basis of race,
color, national origin, sex, disability, or age. We strive to be an inclusive
community of learners, where all members feel valued. If you feel this has not
been the case please contact the school Principal.
Vision Statement:
To join with our community to become the premier charter school in the nation,
where academic excellence coexists with the promotion of innovation and
exploration grounded in an atmosphere of social responsibility.
Mission Statement:
ACES mission is to develop future leaders by providing a world -class education
with an unwavering commitment to the Whole Child, and an unyielding dedication
to Student Success! At ACES, excellence is the expectation, not the exception!
The Aventura City of Excellence School staff believes that we have a
responsibility to create a school climate that enables every individual to feel
cared for, respected and to act as contributing members of the school culture. All
students can learn and will be encouraged to strive for academic excellence and
personal growth that will enable them to be productive and active members of
7
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
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
EN ROLLM ENT/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 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.
8
SCHOOL DIRECTORY
Click here to view the full school directory.
GOVERNING BOARD
The City of Aventura Commission serves as the Governing Board of ACES. Click
here to view the Governing Board directory and a listing of meeting dates.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Each student at ACES has the right to:
• learn
• ask questions and get honest answers
• make mistakes
• know how their grades are determined
• think their own thoughts and believe their
• 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
SCHOOLHOURS N%hhl,
Breakfast available: 8:OOAM - 8:20AM
K-5th Grades: 8:30AM - 3:OOPM pe
Middle School: jj1QhL 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
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.
9
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. Physical
attendance in school is part of mastery of course content for the school year.
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 absences are 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
work. 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.
9. Students with unexcused absences will need to submit missing work 48 hours
upon their return. 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.
10. 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
10
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@aventuracharterk8.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 olelo
• 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
All other absences are considered unexcused. ly
As 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. qV
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.
Please refer to the required Parent Obligation for attendance requirements when
choosing our charter chool.
EARLY DISMISSAL
The parent or guardian must make all requests for early dismissal to the Front
Office. A child being dismissed early must be signed out in the Front 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
11
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 grade in any subject
the student is not present for. Parents must provide documentation for medical
appointments. Students who miss classes for medical reasons will be given the
opportunity to make up assignments on campus outside of school hours.
TARDY POLICY
Please note that our arrival gate will be closed at 8:27 am daily. All students
who arrive after the gate is closed are tardy. A child is tardy when he/she is
not in their classroom by 8:30 a.m and/or absent at the time attendance is taken,
provided the student is in attendance before the close of the day. All students
who are tardy for the start of school must enter the front office with a
parent and be issued a tardy pass. If tardy for half a period or more, a student
is considered absent for that period.
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:
6a..,�
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
12
emergency tardies stapled to the referral. Appropriate consequences will
follow, such as an Early Release Day detention or Saturday School.
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.
General Dismissal Expectations
Parents and guardians are expected to follow all dismissal
designed to ensure the safety of all students.
Same -Day Dismissal Changes
All same -day changes to elementary dismissal procedures must be
rich are
communicated by email to the Front Office.
Students will only be released to adults listed on the Emergency Contact Card
who present a valid photo ID.
X 4 *1r
To ensure timely communication with teachers, same -day dismissal changes
should be submitted as early as possible during the school day.
• Changes to a student's typical dismissal routine must be communicated to
the homeroom teacher the day before
• If a change must be made during the school day, families must receive
confirmation from the Front Office.
Car Rider Dis issal
• Elementary (K-5): Begins at 3.00 p.m.
• Middle School (6-8): Begins at 3.30 p.m.
• Siblings are NOT dismissed together by default.
Families with students in both K-5 and 6-8 must plan for the two dismissal times.
Families may register for Sibling Connection in order to pick up all students at
3.30 p.m. Fees will be charged for students picked up after K-5 dismissal ends
without sibling connection approval.
13
Vehicle & Pickup Procedures
• Parents must remain in their vehicles at all times — no walk-ups.
• Students will not be released to anyone outside of a vehicle,
except at the designated walker dismissal location (near the Middle
School)
• Cell phone use is prohibited in the school zone and may result in a citation
Walker Authorization & Dismissal Requirements
In order for a student to be designated as a walker, a Walker Authorization Form
must be completed and approved by the parent/guard
There are separate authorization forms for: Iq
• Grades K-2 (Requires an adult or older sibling)
• Grades 3-8
Only students with an approved Walker Autho i �Foron file1wlbe
permitted to leave campus independently at dismissal.
Any student not designated as an independent walker must be picked up by an
approved adult. The adult picking up the student must:
• Provide the assigned PIN number through ProCare at dismissal
• Students will not be released without the correct ProCare PIN.
Weather Related Dismissal
If severe weather is forecasted during dismissal, procedures may be adjusted to
ensure the safety of all students. If ACES is under a weather or safety alert
(including, but not limited to, lightning in the area), the school will take a cautious
approach to dismissal.
During such conditions, students designated as independent `walkers' will not be
released to walk home on their own. In order for any student to be released
during severe weather, an approved adult (18 years of age or older) must be
present to assume responsibility for the student.
Families are strongly encouraged to maintain an alternate dismissal plan for
independent walkers. This may include arranging for:
• Pickup by car, or
• An approved adult who can walk the student safely home
14
The school will communicate any severe weather -related dismissal changes
through official school communication channels. Student safety will always be the
school's top priority.
Late Pickup & Aftercare Procedures
• Students should not be picked up after 4:00 p.m.
• After 4:00 p.m., families must park and report to the front desk
• Parents will be required to:
o Complete aftercare registration
o Pay a $25 registration fee
For additional late pickups, students will be placed in emergency aftercare with
YMCA, and fees will be charged to the family.
If emergency aftercare is anticipated before dismiss I, families should contact the
Community Recreation Center at (305) 466-38 3. 7`1
U.S. Transportation (School Bus Services)
In accordance with the school's charter agreement, regular bus transportation is
provided through A1A Transportation nder the conditions outlined below.
Eligibility & Bus Assignment
• Only students approved and eligible for bus transportation may ride the
school bus.
• Eligible students may ride the bus only to and from their assigned,
designated bus stop.
• Changes to designated bus stops are not permitted.
• Students who do not qualify for bus transportation may not ride the bus as
a courtesy (e.g., to visit friends or attend parties).
• Students who qualify as bus riders may not transfer to another bus for
courtesy purposes.
All changes to dismissal procedures must be confirmed by the classroom teacher
or the front office.
These procedures are in place to ensure safe, secure, and accountable
transportation for all students. If there are any changes or updates from the
transportation provider, families will be notified via Remind.
15
Bus Conduct Expectations
Aventura City of Excellence School has established clear expectations for student
behavior while riding the school bus. Parents are asked to review these rules with
their child and emphasize that safe and respectful behavior is required at all times.
Students Are Expected To:
• Arrive at the assigned bus stop on time
• Wait for the bus on the sidewalk or shoulder of the road
• Remain in line while boarding
• Stay properly seated and quiet while the bus is in motion
• Keep hands, arms, and head inside the bus at all time
• Be courteous to the bus driver and other students
• Follow all directions given by the bus driver
• Refrain from throwing objects inside or outside the bus
• Avoid damaging or defacing bus seats or equipment
• Not eat while on the bus
• Take all personal belongings when exiting the bu$v
• Exit the bus in an orderly manner
• After exiting, stop and look both ways
• Cross the street in front of the bus only, when signaled by the driver or
crossing guard Students should never cross behind the bus.)
Loss of Bus Privile es
Failure to follow bus rules and expectations may result in disciplinary action,
including the loss of bus transportation privileges.
Bus Stop Infor ion
Parents may view assigned bus stop information by visiting:
https://studentregistration.nelic.com/
"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.
16
PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Definition for purposes 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
attending school -sponsored or school -related events is a privilege, not a right. A
campus administrator or teacher, in the exercise of reasonable discretion in
response to student misbehavior, abuse of the privilege, or other reasonable
cause, may deny or cancel the privilege of possessing an electronic device.
Electronic devices are not to be used to make phone calls, send/receive text
messages, post anything on social media platforms, etc. AT ALL DURING
SCHOOL HOURS, 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
will be returned at the end of the academic year.
Depending upon the nature of the offense, consequences may be administered,
regardless of `First', `Second', or `Third' times. 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
17
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 5t" 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. If weather at arrival is
forecast to be 55 degrees or below, communication will be sent from the school
to allow outerwear (sweatshirts, jackets, and pants) that aligns with our dress -
down procedures. This allowance is temporary and applies only for that specific
day based on weather conditions. Weather -related outerwear must adhere to
dress code guidelines (i.e. no hooded sweatshirts, sweaters or jackets).
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.
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.
Families may purchase a dress -down tag to participate. If a family chooses not to
participate, students may wear their regular uniform to school. "Soffe shorts",
"belly shirts", tank tops, off the shoulder tops, and sweatshirts with hoods are
prohibited.
Throughout the year, Wednesdays are designated as Spirit Days. K-8 families
may purchase ACES 2026-2027 spirit shirts via MySchoolBucks and ACES will
then provide the shirt to families. Additionally, Middle School students have the
option on Wednesdays to wear spirit shirts reflective of their school -sponsored
clubs (i.e. NJHS) and/or their ACES Middle School sports teams. On these days,
18
students must wear approved 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 Wednesday spirit days. Those students who
choose not to wear spirit shirts on Wednesdays may wear their regular uniform to
school. Finally, ACES may designate additional days allowing students to wear
themed spirit attire to school. Information about these days will be sent to all
families via the family newsletter.
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. Students may be required to wait in the office until a 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
sleeve. Navy blue tights or leggings are the only allowable color and may
only be worn under skirts or dresses.
61n _ 81h Grade
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. recardless of weather conditions.
LABELS
Please have your child's name on all personal property such as lunch boxes,
backpacks, sweaters, raincoats, etc.
19
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
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.org.
20
EMERGENCY DRILLS
On a regular 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
regularly with all conversations being held in a developmentally appropriate
manner.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are planned to encourage the development of interests and to expand
the instructional program. Before a child is permitted to go on a trip, the parent or
guardian must sign a permission slip. Any parent or guardian who does not want
the child to take a trip may have the child excused from this activity, but not from
school. Any child not going on the trip will be assigned to another class for that
period of time.
Because we contract with field trip companies for our overnight trips, there may
be limited availability.
If a student has a negative financial balance (lunch, aftercare, etc.), the student
may not attend a 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, or
any student whose singular behavior creates concerns for the school's
administration, 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
back the privilege of attending a field trip.
Parents volunteering to attend a field trip as chaperone may not bring children
other than those in the class(es) attending the trip (e.g., siblings, cousins).
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.
21
Parents and students may be required to sign a behavior contract prior to
participating in a field trip. Students are to cooperate fully with and follow the
instructions of all chaperones and other supervisory personnel. Repeated refusal
to follow requests/directions of trip supervisors/chaperones or violation of school
rules, regulations or policies will result in parents being notified and student
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 any trip determine whether
or not trips such as these occur in future years. Throughout the fieldtrip, students
are required to maintain a "buddy system". STUDENTS MAY NOT LEAVE THE
GROUP WITHOUT ADVANCE PERMISSION FROM A CHAPERONE.
Neither the School, the City of Aventura, Charter Schools USA, its employees,
agents or representatives are responsible for damage or loss to any property,
money or other valuables of participants on a field 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 the field trip.
CURRICULUM
Instruction is aligned to the B.E.S.T. Standards and the Next Generation Sunshine
State Standards. Teachers and students are accountable for all state and local
assessments in addition to internal formal and informal assessments and
observations (e.g., F.A.S.T., EOC, Benchmark Assessments, STAR, and classroom
assessments). All ACES students are required to enroll in 6 live courses on
campus.
GRADING
Kindergarten students will receive grades of E, S, N, and U. Students in grades
one through eight will receive traditional grades (e.g., A, B, C, D, F) calculated
using the state's grading scale. In addition, students in grades Kindergarten
through eighth -grade will receive a report card each quarter that reflects
academic progress through grades.
Grading Scale
Grade K
Grades 1 — 8
E
— Excellent
A —
Outstanding 90% - 100%
S-
Satisfactory
B —
Above Average Progress 80% - 89%
N
— Needs Improvement
C
— Average Progress 70% - 79%
U
— Unsatisfactory
D
— Below Average 60% - 69%
F —
Failure
22
**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 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 will lead to academic
consequences and/or school discipline as well as impact the course grade.
PARENT PORTAL
No
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:
Parent Portal Directions
HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
Parents are an integral part of our school and as such we strive to keep them
involved and informed. Parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers
via Talking Points and school email. Parent communication will be sent out
weekly from the school via an emailed Family Newsletter. For K-5 students,
weekly communication will be sent via email as a grade -level newsletter. Parents
of Middle School stude is will receive monthly Middle School newsletters.
CONFERENCES
Families are required to have at least one parent -teacher conference during the
school year. This can be conducted in person, by phone, or via an online video
meeting. lqlhdr
HONOR ROLL REQUIREMENTS
Grade 1 — Grade 8
Principal's Honor Roll: All A's in Academic subjects
All A's and B's in conduct and 1's in effort
Honor Roll: All A's and B's in academic subjects
All A's and B's in conduct and 1's in effort
23
Kindergarten: Students may earn the ACES Super Star Award by
achieving all E's and consistently demonstrating
positive conduct and effort.
RECESS
Kindergarten through 5t" 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 (i.e. `Hard Top'). 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 appropriate to a student's grade level. A
primary focus will be placed on research -based instructional technology as well
as the completion of recommended lessons.
Teachers will use the following time schedules as a guide when assigning
homework:
Grade Level Total daily Average II Subjec
K-2: 15 minuteses 3-5: 30 minut
6-8: 60 minutes
*(Students taking High School courses or who are on accelerated tracks may have
increased workloads)
1
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
• Discuss problems related to home study with your child's teacher
• Check the Dadeschools and PowerSchool portals often
Parents are asked to refrain from doing work for their children.
24
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.
PROMOTION/RETENTION 6*44!,(X
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. is
ACES follows the Miami -Dade County Public Schools Student Progression Plan.
HEALTH SERVI
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.
25
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 occurs anywhere 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
*4 � , -� , 'NOF
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. Volunteer opportunities will be shared publicly for sign-
up's throughout the school year. Additionally, volunteer hours will be honored by
ACES when parents attend school -sponsored workshops, complete surveys, etc.
All volunteers are required to complete the online safety trainings prior to
volunteering on school property when students are present or at school -sponsored
events. 'X
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 ahead of time to conference with teachers
and administrators.
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. Parents are encouraged to communicate with the teacher or impacted
26
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
discuss their child's progress. In grades 3-8, all teachers may 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 one of our administrators to attempt to
resolve their concern or grievance.
• In the event the parent cannot resolve their concern or grievance with the
assigned administrator, they may contact the Principal of the school, Dr.
Andrea Beck, afloydbeck@aventuracharterk8.org, 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(ocharterschoolsusa.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
27
during their lunch period by visiting the media specialist in the morning to acquire
a pass). Students without a 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.
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 be charged via MySchoolBucks.
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(oaventuracharter.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 (i.e. ALL of
the boys or ALL of the girls in a homeroom) is invited.
• This will prevent embarrassment to the child not receiving an invitation.
28
If a parent wishes to bring food for a special celebration, they must coordinate
and approve this with the homeroom teacher. Please note that only store-bought
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 in collaboration with the City
of Aventura's Community Recreation Center. Students in Kindergarten — 8t"
grade may enroll in School Aftercare, an after -school supervision program from
3.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m.
1. Beginning at 3.30 p.m. students may be picked up from the School
Aftercare Program
2. Students must be signed out on the dismissal sheet at the front desk by
the parent or/and another authorized person. All parents or authorized
persons picking up a student should carry a photo ID at all times.
3. Students will not be dismissed to your vehicle.
4. All students must be picked up by 6.00 p.m. — no later.
5. There is a late fee for children that are not picked up on time. The late
pick-up fee is $10 for every 15 minutes past the closing time of 6.00 p.m.
Payment is due on the date of the incident. Please be advised that the
School Aftercare program is a service provided for our parents who need
their children to remain in school until 6.00 p.m. Therefore, if you
anticipate any conflict with our schedule, you should consider other means
of care for your child. Daily/Hourly rates are not available through this
service.
Emergency Aftercare
No student should be picked up from school past 4:OOpm. Families will need to
park and come to the front desk to pick up their child, where they will be asked to
complete after -care registration and pay the $25 registration fee. For any
additional late -pickups, students will be placed in emergency after -care with
YMCA at a fee to be charged to the family. If a parent knows they will need
emergency aftercare prior to dismissal, they should call the Community
Recreation Center at (305) 466-3883.
Aftercare Withdrawals:
If your child has been enrolled in the program and you wish to withdraw him/her,
please notify the rec center.
29
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 offered in the
Cafeteria. All students in need of food will be provided with something to eat.
LUNCH PROGRAM
A'viands, a K-12 Elior company, is our food vendor. 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.
Lunch payments should be made through myschoolbucks.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.
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.
SCHOOL RULES%k '%e
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.
Disciplinary action is issued after reviewing each child's behavior or action, age,
and the frequency of behaviors that teacher redirection and or require
administrative redirection. All disciplinary decisions are made at the discretion of
ACES administration. ACES follows structured disciplinary procedures designed
to ensure fairness, consistency, and a safe, respectful learning environment for
all students.
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.
30
In the Classroom - Students are expected to. -
speak in an acceptable, respectful manner
• move in a careful way
• follow directions
• respect the property and ideas of the school, teachers, and others
In general, students are expected to behave in a way that promotes learning and
does not interfere with teaching and learning. Teachers seek to promote an
optimum learning environment. Students reported for misconduct will speak with
appropriate school staff. Parents will be notified when it is deemed necessary.
In The Halls - Students are expected to.
• remember that classes are in session
• walk quietly
• go directly to their destinations '6*44&'
In general, students should be quiet, careful, and courteous in the halls. They
should be considerate of classes that are in session and try not to disturb
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: Nk
• play carefully, and in a manner that will not cause harm to themselves or
others
• use the rules of the games
• follow directions
• walk to their class line when the signal is given
In general, students are expected to abide by the rules of the playground, to
cooperate with the staff on duty, and be considerate. Students who do not follow
the rules may be required to miss recess for a period of time. Recess will rarely
be taken away in its entirety.
In The Cafeteria- Students are expected to. -
pass through the serving area in a quiet, orderly manner
• remain seated at their assigned tables (elementary school)
• speak in an acceptable, respectful 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 referred to the office or required to have lunch in
another area designated by the school administration/cafeteria supervisor.
A cafeteria supervisor ensures that students follow cafeteria rules and display
proper eating etiquette.
31
Middle School students are expected to adhere to all of the above rules. Middle
School students will be allowed to choose their seats for lunch unless behavior in
the cafeteria deteriorates. At that time, students will be assigned seats.
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
LiveSchool is used to document students' positive and negative behaviors on a
daily basis. Families are encouraged to regularly review their child's LiveSchool
account and discuss behavioral expectations and choices with their child.
Teachers will communicate directly with families if any behavior becomes
ongoing or concerning.
There are three (3) levels of disciplinary action, each determined by the severity
of the behavior and implemented in alignment with the Miami -Dade County
Public Schools Code of Student Conduct.
Level I — Corrective Strategies
(Minor Misconduct / Early Intervention)
Purpose: To address minor behavior concerns through gui ance,
communication, and instruction before behaviors escalate.
Focus: Teaching expected behavior and correcting actions using non -punitive
strategies, as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.
Possible corrective actions may include, but are not limited to:
• Conference with the teacher
• Parent/guardian contact
• Conference with the teacher and parent/guardian
• Conference with a member of the administration
• Conference with the school counselor
• Behavior contract
• Lunch detention
• Time out
• Reflective activity
The majority of Level I behaviors are managed within the classroom and do not
warrant formal disciplinary action, except at the discretion of administration.
Level II — Formal Disciplinary Actions
(Repeated or More Serious Misconduct)
32
Purpose: To address behaviors that are more serious or continue despite
Level I interventions.
Focus: Application of formal disciplinary actions that include heightened
administrative involvement and are consistent with district guidelines.
Formal disciplinary actions may include, but are not limited to:
• Teacher -assigned detention (before or after school)
• Administrative detention (after school)
• Conference with a member of the administratio
• Saturday School
• In -school suspension
• Out -of -school suspension
Parent/guardian communication is expected at this
Level III — Serious Disciplinary Actions
(Major or Unsafe Misconduct)
Purpose: To address serious, unsafe,
affect school safety or the learning environment.
behaviors that significantly
Focus: Administrative action in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct
and School Board policy.
Formal disciplinary actions may include, but are not limited to:
• Out -of -school suspension
• Administrative review
• Dismissal from school, consistent with district procedures
Level 111 offenses require immediate administrative involvement and
parent/guardian notification.
BEFORE -SCHOOL AND AFTER -SCHOOL DETENTIONS
After -School Detentions may be assigned and supervised by a teacher or
administrator. A Before -School Detention or After -School Detention form will be
completed and will include the date, time, location, a description of the behavior,
and documented attempts to contact the parent/guardian.
33
Students are expected to arrive on time and follow all detention expectations.
Misbehavior during detention or arriving late may result in an additional
disciplinary consequence, such as a Saturday Detention.
SATURDAY DETENTION
Saturday Detention may be assigned for students whose behavior is repeatedly
or consistently inappropriate. Saturday Detention takes place from 8:30 a.m. to
12:00 p.m. Students are required to:
• Wear their complete school uniform
• Complete assigned reflection and corrective activities
• Follow all expectations, as there is zero tolerance for misbehavior
Failure to attend Saturday Detention may result in a one -day suspension, unless
the absence is due to a verified illness or family emer ency and supported by
appropriate documentation (e.g., a doctor's note).
SUSPENSION
Suspension is a disciplinary action that temporarily removes a student from class
or school for a period not to exceed ten (10) school days. The Principal or
designee will make every effort to work with families and utilize alternative
disciplinary strategiesprior to issuing a suspension, except in cases involving:
Emergencies
Serious m iscondu
• Highly disruptive c
11
SUSPENDIBL FFENSES
Suspendible offenses may include, but are not limited to:
• Fighting or other dangerous and/or disruptive behavior
• Smoking or vaping on school grounds
• Being under the influence of or possessing alcohol or drugs on school
grounds
• Possession or use of weapons or objects that may be used as weapons
(e.g., knives, brass knuckles, chains, mace)
• Defacing or vandalizing school property
34
• Igniting or possessing flammable substances
PERMANENT DISMISSAL
The Principal may recommend permanent dismissal to the Deputy Director
(Principal's supervisor) and the City Manager for serious or ongoing violations,
including but not limited to:
1. Possession, use, or transmission of a weapon, including guns, knives,
razors, explosives, or similar objects
2. Possession, use, or transmission of illegal substances or substances that
alter mood or behavior
3. Using any object as a weapon or in a manner intended to threaten or harm
others 'Nor
4. Serious breaches of conduct, such .
a. Assault on school personnel or stud
b. Threats or false reports
c. Lewd or lascivious acts
d. Arson or vandalism �� N
e. Any act that disrupts or threatens the orderly operation of the
school 40101116,
5. Continued misconduct, including persistent use of profane, obscene, or
abusive language, or other behaviors that negatively impact the
educational environment
4 1% IV
BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY
ACES follows the Miami -Dade County Public Schools Anti Bullying Policy. Miami
Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is committed to providing a safe learning
environment for all students. To this end, M-DCPS is dedicated to eradicating
bullying and harassment in its schools by providing awareness, prevention and
education in promoting a school atmosphere in which bullying, harassment, and
intimidation will not be tolerated by students, school board employees, visitors, or
volunteers. The entire policy can be found at the following link:
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.
35
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. Fortif FL is linked here.
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: AL
Eligible students in grades K through 8 will have an opportunity to enroll in a
gifted Language Arts course. Project -based instruction provides students with 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.
36
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: X Ne
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 Grade 5 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.
SPANISH.
ACES Modern Language Program places emphasis on four basic components of
language acquisition (e.g., listening, speaking, reading, and writing). Students
build an understanding of the relationship between perspectives and products of
various cultures. Students in grades K-5 receive Spanish instruction one time per
rotation. Middle School students can elect to enroll in Spanish courses
throughout their Middle School career at ACES.
ART:
Our Arts program fosters self-expression and creativity. The Art Program is
designed to inspire and motivate students to experience the connection between
disciplines such as language arts, math, science, and social studies. Students
use a variety of mediums including paint, chalk, clay, and fabric to create 2-D and
3-D art.
37
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. Students will lose access to technology if the agreement is not
completed.
Terms of Agreement
In this agreement, `you" and `your" means the parent/guardian and the student enrolled
in Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES). The "equipment' is a Chromebook and
battery.
Terms:
You will be issued an ACES Chromebook and battery to be used
during the school day. You will comply with the ACES One -to -One
Parent/Student Handbook at all times.
Title:
Legal title to the equipment belongs to the ACES and shall at all
times remain with ACES. Your right to possess and use the
equipment is limited to and conditioned upon your full compliance
with this Agreement.
Your possession of the equipment terminates on the collection date
set by the school unless terminated earlier by the ACES or upon
withdrawal from the school.
Lost, Stolen, or
You must report any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment to the
Damaged
school immediately. For stolen equipment, you must also file a
Equipment:
police report.
If the equipment is lost or damaged, either intentionally or due to
negligence, the student may be subject to discipline and you may
be responsible for the cost of repair or replacement.
Sanctions for
Any activity that violates Electronic Resources Policy and
Violations
Procedures should be reported to a school administrator.
Disciplinary action, if any, for the students and other users shall be
considered on a case -by -case basis. Violations of the policy can
constitute cause for revocation of access privileges, suspension of
access to Aventura City of Excellence School electronic resources,
other school disciplinary action, and/or other appropriate legal or
criminal action including restitution, if appropriate.
38
PARENT OBLIGATION 2026-2027
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 County Public Schools) student.
WHEREAS, in order to provide my (our) child with a unique educational opportunity;
WHEREAS, by choosing to enroll my (our) child at (ACES) is a decision of my (our) personal choice and not a privilege;
WHEREAS, my (our) desire to enroll my (our) child at (ACES) is premised upon my (our) desire to become an active
partner in the education of my (our) child;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing:
As a parent of a student at (ACES), my (our) commitment is to abide by the following resolutions:
A. To recognize and embrace my role as the primary educator of my child.
B. To participate in 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 15t
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.).
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:
School Official
Date
Aventura City of Excellence School POLICY AND PROCEDURES
PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION, INCLUDING SEXUAL AND
OTHER FORMS OF HARASSMENT
19
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.
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.
40
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 a ainst, patting,
pinching, bumping, rubbing, kissing, and fonling.
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:
1. Has the purpose or affect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work
or academic environment;
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.
41
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
Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against, or
placed in a hostile environment based on gender, marital status, sexual
orientation, race, national origin, religion, age or disability by an employee,
volunteer, agent or student of the school should within sixty (60) days of alleged
occurrence file a written or oral complaint. The complaint should set forth a
description of the alleged discriminatory actions/harassment, the time frame in
which the alleged discrimination occurred, the person or persons involved in the
alleged discriminatory actions, and any witnesses or other evidence relevant to
the allegations in the complaint.
2. The complaint should be filed with the school Principal. Complaints filed with the
Principal must be forwarded to CSUSA Employee Services within five (5) days of
the filing of the complaint. If the complaint is against the principal, the complaint
may be filed directly with CSUSA Employee Services.
3. If the complaint is against CSUSA Employee Services, the Chief of Schools, or
other member of the School's Board, the complaint may be filed with the School
Attorney.jr
B. Procedures for Processing Compl s
R411jr*
1. Complaints filed against persons other than the Chief of Schools or member of
the School's Board:
a. Upon receipt of the written complaint by CSUSA Employee Services, CSUSA
Employee Services shall investigate or appoint an investigator to conduct an
investigation of the allegations in the complaint. The investigator shall
interview the complainant and the accused; interview any witnesses
identified by the complainant, accused, or by other sources; take statements
from all witnesses; and review any relevant documents or other evidence.
Upon completing a review of all evidence relevant to the complaint, the
investigator shall prepare a written summary of the investigation, and make a
recommendation to CSUSA Employee Services as to whether there is
reasonable cause to believe a violation of the School's anti -discrimination
policy has occurred. Copies of documents, evidence and witness statements
which were considered in the investigation must be sent to CSUSA
Employee Services along with the summary and recommendation.
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
42
ten (10) days whether there is reasonable cause to believe a discriminatory
practice occurred.
If CSUSA Employee Services or School Attorney determines there is
reasonable cause to believe a violation of the nondiscriminatory policy
occurred, he or she shall within ten (10) days provide notice of the
reasonable cause finding to the complainant and the accused. CSUSA
Employee Services or School Attorney shall then review the investigatory file,
reasonable cause determination, and all related documents and evidence, to
the Chief of Schools.
e. If CSUSA Employee Services or School Attorney determines, after a review
of the investigation, summary, recommendation and other evidence, that
there is no reasonable cause to believe a discriminatory practice occurred,
he or she shall provide within ten (10) days notice of the finding of no
reasonable cause to the complainant and accused.
f. The complainant may request a no reasonable cause finding by CSUSA
Employee Services or School Attorney be reviewed by the Chief of Schools
within ten (10) days of receipt of this notice. The complainant shall provide a
written statement detailing facts in support of his or her disagreement with
the determination. The complainant will also be given an opportunity to meet
with the Chief of Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney to
present his or her position. The Chief of Schools and CSUSA Employee
Services/School Attorney shall prepare a written memorandum summarizing
the content of the conference to be included in the complaint file. The Chief
of Schools shall within ten (10) days of receipt of the notice make a final
determination as to whether there is reasonable cause to believe a
discriminatory practice occurred.
g. If review by the Chief of Schools is not timely requested, CSUSA Employee
Services or School Attorney's determination of no reasonable cause shall be
final.
h. The accused may request, within ten (10) days of receipt of a notice of a
finding of reasonable cause, that the determination be reviewed by the Chief
of Schools. The request must include a written statement expressing the
accused's position on the complaint and findings, and address any facts,
statements or evidence which he or she submits are inaccurate. The
accused will be given an opportunity to meet with the Chief of Schools and
CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney to present his or her position.
The Chief of Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney must
within ten (10) days of receipt of the notice prepare a memorandum
summarizing the content of the meeting to be included in the complaint file.
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
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.
43
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.
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
a. Student - A substantiated allegation of discrimination or harassment against
a student shall subject that student to disciplinary action consistent with the
Code of Student Conduct.
b. Employee or Volunteer - A substantiated allegation of discrimination or
harassment against an employee may result in disciplinary actions including
termination and referral to appropriate law enforcement authorities. A
volunteer shall be removed from service and a referral may be made to
appropriate law enforcement authorities.
4. Limited Exemption from Public Records Act and Notification of Parents of Minors
a. To the extent possible, complaints will be treated as confidential and in
accordance with Florida Statutes and the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA). Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a
thorough investigation as described above. The School's obligation to
investigation and take corrective action may supersede an individual's right
to privacy.
44
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
'k,
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
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
46
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
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.
47
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.
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 C
thorized to receive
notifications.
At a minimum, the principal or the rincipal's designee must take the
following actions:
1
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:
48
a. The principal or the principal's designee deems the delay to be in the
student's best interest and if there is knowledge, suspicion, or reason
to suspect that such notification may result in abuse, abandonment,
or neglect; or
b. The principal or the principal's designee reasonably believes that
such delay is necessary to avoid jeopardizing the health and safety
of the student.
V. Conflict of Law
This policy is intended to supplement Sections 1001.41, 1002.20 and
1014.04, Florida Statutes. If there is any provision of this policy which conflicts
with and Florida Statute, the Florida Statute shall control. In the event the
Department of Education updates, as necessary, school counseling frameworks
and standards; educator practices and professional conduct principles; and any
other student services personnel guidelines, standards, or frameworks in
accordance with the requirements of this act, the Governing Board shall adopt
and incorporate such updated frameworks and standards in compliance with this
Policy, Florida Administrative Code, and Florida Statutes.
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.
49
DON SOFFER
:4
AV NTU A
-HIGH SCHOOL
FAMILY HANDBOOK
2026-2027
Letter from the Principal
Dear Members of the Don Soffer Aventura High School Community,
Welcome to Don Soffer Aventura High School! I am honored to join you and all members of our school
community to accomplish a two-part mission. Part one is to help our students make these high school years the
most wonderful years of their lives to date. Part two is to equip our students to make each future year even better.
Here are some essential elements of this mission:
• Students experience TOP excellence, found at the intersection of each student's greatest "T" for talent,
" O" for opportunity, and "P" for passion.
• Support is provided for each student to take every course on the most challenging, manageable level.
• Students have the opportunity to complete course requirements for the University of Cambridge
Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) diploma, as well as the College Board AP
Capstone diploma.
• Extracurricular and athletic involvement is celebrated for student growth, to experience the fulfillment of
selfless service, and to develop resumes that impress college admission officers and scholarship judges.
• Students learn to formulate and clearly communicate sophisticated, personal perspectives verbally and in
writing; and students learn to understand the perspectives of others.
• Students develop the preparation and execution strategies necessary to generate a peak performance when
it matters most in all areas of life, including standardized testing.
• Students advocate for themselves and others if ever support is needed or injustice is perceived, and all
members of our community listen.
• Students are coached on purposeful device, Al, and Social Media usage.
Considering what an amazing school community we have, it is reasonable to anticipate magnificent outcomes:
The DSAHS target graduation rate will continue to be 100%; DSAHS will continue to earn an "A" rating and
recognition as a "School of Excellence" from the Florida Department of Education; the percent of students
earning Cambridge AICE diplomas and AP College Board Capstone diplomas will rival top high schools
throughout the world; DSAHS will continue to earn College Board's top recognition as a Platinum Honor Roll
school; and our graduates will be prepared to succeed at elite universities, thrive in their careers, and become
global leaders.
Thank you for joining our school community in empowering our students to achieve their greatest potential, while
affirming they are worthy of our complete respect, kindness, and devotion just as they are.
Gratefully Yours,
Principal Geoff McKee, Ph.D.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
Academics
Academic recognition: Here are the academic distinctions based on the cumulative weighted grade point average
rounded to the one -thousandth place for all classes taken at DSAHS will be notified:
• Summa Cum Laude distinction is earned by the top 5% of the graduating class.
• Magna Cum Laude distinction is earned by students ranked in the 6%-10% of the senior class.
• Cum Laude distinction is earned by students ranked in the l l%-15% of the senior class, as well as any
student with a weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher. Students do not receive an individual rank.
Students who are on track to earning these honors, as well as those who are on track to becoming the
Valedictorian or Salutatorian will be notified at the start of senior year. The final determination for these honors
will be done at the end of the third quarter, senior year, and will include the average of grades for quarters one,
two, and three. These average grades will receive the same weight as the annual grades earned during 9t'', 10', and
111h grade. Only high school and college level classes taken at DSAHS will be included. Grades for classes taken
virtually, in middle school, through dual enrollment, and through external academic programs, will not be
included in this calculation.
Don Soffer Aventura High School diploma: Students earn a DSAHS diploma through either successfully
passing the courses required for a Cambridge AICE diploma; or through earning at least 24 credits, including 16
core academic credits and eight elective credits. Whether students earn the AICE diploma or 24-credit standard
diploma, to earn a DSAHS diploma, students must earn the following credits during high school: four credits in
English, four annual credits in mathematics; four annual credits in science; three annual credits in social science
taken during high school; two years of a foreign language taken during high school - competitive colleges will
require students to earn three high school credits in a foreign language. Students who earn the AICE diploma are
not required to earn an annual physical education/health credit or a fine art/performing art requirement.
Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education Diploma: The Advanced International
Certificate of Education (AICE) is an international diploma students earn from the University of Cambridge in
England. Through earning an AICE diploma and documenting 100 hours of community service, students qualify
for the Florida Bright Futures Academic Scholars Scholarship. Cambridge courses teach students to think
independently, collaborate with peers, synthesize information, apply knowledge, and present logical and
persuasive arguments. The AICE diploma requires students to earn seven credits in specified subjects.
The AICE curriculum requirement includes AICE Global Perspectives, at least one class in the AICE Arts and
Humanities category, at least one class in the Math and Science category, at least one class in the Language
category, and any three additional AICE classes. Students who complete these requirements are not required to
meet the PE, performing or expressive arts, or online requirement for graduation.
Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma: AP Capstone is an innovative program that equips students with
the independent research, collaborative teamwork, and communication skills that are increasingly valued by
colleges. Through earning the AP Capstone diploma and documenting 100 hours of community service, students
qualify for the Florida Bright Futures Academic Scholars Scholarship.
AP Capstone is built on the foundation of two courses, AP Seminar and AP Research, and is designed to enhance
the discipline -specific learning gained through other AP courses. The AP Diploma requires students to earn scores
of three on the five -point scale in AP Seminar and AP Research and on any four additional AP exams. The AP
Capstone curriculum fosters inquiry, research, collaboration, and writing skills through the intensive investigation
of topics from multiple perspectives. AP courses are rigorous college level courses.
Florida Scholar Diploma Designation: Pass the Geometry, Biology 1, and U.S. History End of Course exams;
earn 1 credit in Algebra 2; statistics or an equally rigorous mathematics course; chemistry or physics or an equally
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
rigorous course; 2 credits in the same world language; and at least 1 credit in AP, AICE, or dual enrollment.
Superintendent's Diploma of Distinction: Meet the standard high school diploma requirements and earn credit
in at least 4 Honors, AP, AICE, or dual enrollment courses; complete at least 75 hours of community service; earn
a GPA of 3.5 or above by the end of the first semester of senior year with no final grades of a "C" or lower on
their transcripts.
The Florida Seal of Biliteracy is established to recognize a high school graduate who has attained a high level of
competency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English by the
award of a silver or gold seal on a standard high school diploma.
The Florida Gold Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to a student who has earned a standard high school diploma and
who has satisfied one of the following criteria for eligibility: Has earned four foreign language course credits in
the same foreign language with a cumulative 3.0 grade point average or higher and level 4 or higher on the grade
10 English Language Arts (ELA) Florida Standards Assessment (FSA); or has earned a score or performance
level on any of the state approved examinations; or has satisfied alternative requirements as determined by the FL
Board of Education.
The Florida Silver Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to a student who has earned a standard high school diploma and
who has satisfied one of these criteria: Has earned four foreign language credits in the same language with a
cumulative 3.0 grade point average or higher on a 4.0 scale; or has earned a score or performance level on any of
the state approved examinations; or has satisfied alternative requirements as determined by the FL Board of
Education.
For languages which are not tested on the nationally recognized examinations, students may demonstrate
language proficiency through maintenance of a portfolio of language performance meeting the ACTFL Visit this
link for additional information: diplomapathways.dadeschools.net.
Academic Honor
Quality education, ethical conduct, and social responsibility are prioritized at DSAHS. All students are expected
to exhibit academic honor. Every graded assignment provides an opportunity for success in two categories, one
for academic proficiency, and the other for integrity. The more important category is integrity.
Violations of academic honor generally fall within these two categories:
1) Receiving or giving information that provides an unfair advantage on a graded assignment.
a. Students may only share the information the teacher has availed to all students for all graded
assignments.
b. An example of an Academic Honor Code violation would be to take a test, then share information
with one or more individuals who will take the test later.
2) Submitting work, whether completed in class or elsewhere, that is not original work of the student
seeking credit for the submission.
a. Assistance from any other source, including any artificial intelligence (Al) source, must be
reported to the teacher in accordance with the teacher's rules.
Those who do not demonstrate academic honor will be subject to disciplinary consequences, including probation
or dismissal from honor societies and leadership positions. Violations include lying, cheating, stealing, or
assisting others in doing so. Such acts damage trust and undermine our school's honorable reputation, of which
we are all stewards.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
4
Administrative Support Team
Ms. Bartley, School Operations Administrator
Ms. Clappier, Assistant Principal
Ms. Cordero, Administrative Assistant and Receptionist
Ms. Garzon, School Enrollment and Marketing Administrator
Ms. Hernandez, Associate Principal, Dean for students whose last names begin P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z
Ms. Higdon, School Counselor, Dean for students whose last names begin G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O
Ms. Kitko, School Counselor, Dean for students whose last names begin A, B, C, D, E, F
Dr. McKee, Principal
Ms. McGinnis, Activities and Athletics Director
Ms. Nicholson Battle, College and Career Specialist
Ms. Thompson, School Office Manager
Arrival
Students need to learn the importance of regular and prompt school attendance. All students must be dropped off
in the school driveway. The early start drop-off time is from 7:OOam-7:15am to ensure students are in class by
7:24am. The standard start drop off is from 8:00-8:20am to ensure students are in class by 8:30am. The school is
not responsible for supervision before 7:OOam or after 3:45pm, unless students are involved in school -sponsored
activities. Breakfast is available from 7:00-7:20am for early start and 8:00-8:25am for standard start students. For
drop off and pickup, vehicles enter through the Waterways Park main entrance, 3301 NE 213t' Street.
Artificial Intelli2en ce
Appropriate use of artificial intelligence (AI) is an essential component of modern education. To avoid earning
disciplinary consequences for presenting assignments completed with Al assistance, students must cite any use of
Al. Examples include Al programs used to correct grammar, refine vocabulary, or improve sentence structure.
The use of such programs is likely to result in the assignment being flagged for Al assistance and disciplinary
consequences. Students must be clear on their teacher's standards for Al use restrictions on each assignment and
abide by those restrictions.
Athletics
Students are encouraged to participate in intramural and interscholastic athletics. Athletic packets must be
submitted prior to participation and all Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) requirements must be
met prior to participation. Additional information is available on the school web site
Attendance
Please email Attendance( a �AventuraCharterHS.Org for all attendance matters. Don Soffer Aventura High School
has developed the following attendance policy to comply with Miami -Dade County Public Schools. One of the
most significant factors impacting achievement is punctual attendance. It is our obligation to record attendance
accurately and ensure that it is taken and recorded for each period, inform parents/guardians of student absences,
and to see that the compulsory attendance laws are enforced as mandated by Florida Statutes. We encourage the
commitment of students, parents, and staff to work together to accomplish this. Students are responsible to be
present and on time to school, turn in proper documentation explaining all absences, make-up missed
assignments, and turn in assigned work on time. Documentation regarding an absence must be received within 48-
hours following the student's return to school. If documentation is not received within that timeframe, the absence
will not be excused.
A. Excused Absences
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
a. Student illness: Students missing 5 or more consecutive days of school due to illness or injury
are required to provide a written statement from a health care provider. The written
statements must include all days of absence.
b. Medical Appointment: If a student is absent from school due to a medical appointment,
documentation from a health care provider indicating the date and time of the appointment
must be submitted to the front office staff.
c. Death of a family member.
d. Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members of a faith
that such a holiday or service be observed.
e. School -sponsored event or formal educational enrichment activity, as determined and
approved by the principal or principal's designee. The student must receive advance written
permission from the principal or the principal's designee. Examples of special events include
student performances and presentations at public functions, conferences, and regional, state
and national competitions.
f. Subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance.
g. Out of school suspension
B. Unexcused Absences
a. Absences for vacations, personal services, job interview or orientation, and non -school
athletic or club activities.
b. Absences to assist with family responsibilities, including supervision of children.
c. Absences due to illness of others.
d. Absences due to non-compliance with immunization requirements.
Tardies: Students disrupt the learning environment if they are not_in their assigned classroom and ready to learn
when the late bell rings.
• Students will receive three grace tardies per quarter. These are for unavoidable tardies, including tardies
due to health issues.
• Additional tardies earn consequences. For the fourth, fifth, and sixth tardies, student phones will be
collected and returned to the student after students serve a supervised lunch assignment that day.
• Beginning with the seventh tardy in a quarter, the student's cell phone will be confiscated and returned
after the student serves a supervised lunch and after -school detention that ends one hour after the
student's dismissal time.
• In addition to the consequences listed above, the tenth tardy and every additional tardy will be evaluated
by administration to determine if the student should receive a disciplinary referral for insubordination.
Early Release: Students may not leave campus between 2:35pm and 3:25pm. Students will only be permitted to
leave before 2:35pm if one of the following criteria are met: 1) A parent/guardian picks up the student in person;
or 2) the parent provides documentation to confirm the early release qualifies as an excused absence. In either
case, the departure must be approved by an administrator and processed in the front office. Students who leave
campus without administrative approval will receive disciplinary consequences. To limit class disruptions,
students should be contacted by the parent between classes, not during class when an early release is necessary.
Planned Extended Absences: Parents are urged to plan family trips during school vacations. Absences due a
vacation are unexcused. If an extended absence is unavoidable, please email
Attendance( a �AventuraCharterHS.Org at least one week before the anticipated absence or as soon as the need for
the absence is known.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
Book Bats, Folders, Personal Items
Book bags, backpacks, folders, or any other personal items must not display patches, entertainment insignias,
drawings, obscene words, gang related items, or any other item that would be deemed inappropriate, offensive,
promote alcohol or drug use, or reflect negatively on Don Soffer Aventura High School. Failure to comply will
constitute a disciplinary consequence and parent notification. Bookbags and all personal belongings are subject to
search if there is reasonable suspicion the search will uncover an illicit item or evidence of an illicit act.
Bus Transportation
Don Soffer Aventura High School does provide bus transportation to students who reside two or more miles from
school, as determined by the school's contracted bus company, AIA Transportation. If the number of requesting
riders is greater than the number of available bus seats, a waitlist will be created. All reasonable provisions will be
made to add qualifying waitlisted students to a bus roster.
Cafeteria
Aviands is our food services provider. Lunch items may be purchased through MySchoolBucks.Com accounts.
Students with negative balances are prohibited from participating in extracurricular activities and events until the
negative balance is paid. Only students who qualify for free lunch and free breakfast will receive breakfast or
lunch without having to pay. Those interested in free or reduced -price meals may apply on
www.MySchoolApps.com. During lunch, students must remain in the cafeteria or in the designated, supervised
lunch areas on campus.
Care of School Property
Students are expected to respect the school buildings and property. Receptacles are provided throughout the
buildings and grounds for proper disposal of waste. Marking or defacing school property is a serious offense and
will result in disciplinary action and will be reported to law enforcement. Any student who damages/vandalizes
school property will be required to make full restitution for damages. Chewing gum in the school building is
forbidden. All food must be consumed in the cafeteria or area designated by Administration. Any student who
disregards rules pertaining to the care of school property will be subject to disciplinary action.
Cell Phones
Cell phones must be turned off and placed in the teacher's cell phone holding box at the start of every class unless
the teacher makes an exception for instructional purposes. Students may not leave the room during class time with
their phones. Cell phones and other electronic devices are subject to search by an administrator if there is
reasonable suspicion the cell phone contains evidence regarding a disciplinary infraction, threat to any member of
our school community, or criminal offense. Unauthorized use of cell phones or other electronic devices may result
in the device being confiscated, a referral to administration, and disciplinary consequences. Failure to surrender
items will increase consequences.
Furthermore, as per Florida statute 1006.07(2)(f), "Notice that use of a wireless communications device includes
the possibility of the imposition of disciplinary action by the school or criminal penalties if the device is used in a
criminal act. A student may possess a wireless communications device while the student is on school property or
in attendance at a school function; however, a student may not use a wireless communications device during
instructional time, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
7
Character, Citizenship, and Virtues
Students at Don Soffer Aventura High School are expected to demonstrate superior character and citizenship. We
encourage students to always do the right thing and seek the assistance of staff members when a troublesome
situation arises. Follow the golden rule: Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you. Lend a helping
hand whenever possible. Readily share gratitude. Make good choices and act responsibly.
Child Abuse
State law requires that teachers, administrators, and other school personnel report suspected cases of abuse,
abandonment, or neglect to the DCF Hotline at 800-96-ABUSE.
Communication Between Home and School
Communication is essential for parents and staff members to promote outstanding student achievement. Report
cards are printed for students at the end of the 1st 2nd and 3rd quarter. Teachers will email progress reports to
parents at the midpoint of each quarter. Throughout the year, parents and students are encouraged to check grades
and attendance through PowerSchool, our online academic platform. Parents in need of PowerSchool login
information or any other PowerSchool assistance should contact the main office.
Parent satisfaction surveys are emailed to parents during the first quarter and fourth quarter. Through completing
surveys, parents earn volunteer time and help identify areas where praise is deserved and areas where
improvement is needed.
Contagious Conditions, Including Pediculosis (HEAD LICE) and Eve Infections
Students with contagious ailments or conditions will be quarantined on campus until the parent is able to arrange
for the student's departure from school. Prior to returning to class, the school nurse must clear the student.
Deliveries to Students
Maintaining a safe, uninterrupted learning environment is a priority. All deliveries, including food deliveries for
students will be accepted during the school day only from those who are on the student's emergency contact list.
Food deliveries will be held in the main office until the student picks up the delivery during lunch. All other items
may be picked up by the student during class change. Deliveries from restaurants or delivery services will not be
accepted for students.
Devices with a Audio or Video Recording Capability, Information Storage, Internet Access
Calculators, cameras, cell phones, laptops, microphones, smart glasses, smart watches, tablets, and any device
with information storage capability or internet access may be accessible to students during class time only with
the expressed permission of the classroom teacher. Audio recording, video recording, or taking photographs
during school must be pre -approved by administration. Recording or photographing without permission may lead
to disciplinary consequences.
Discipline Referrals and Procedures
The DSAHS disciplinary program is designed to protect the rights of all DSAHS community members and to
establish a safe, well -ordered environment where students and teachers can attain peak academic, extracurricular,
and athletic success. Mutual respect, law-abiding conduct, good manners, and positive interactions are essential.
School authorities will hold students and parents accountable for any action that interferes with the learning
process, creates a disruption, or contributes to a hostile environment for any member of the DSAHS community.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
Staff members are required to report student misconduct on a Student Case Management Referral form. If
substantiated by administration, the outcome will be recorded, and the form will be filed in the student's
cumulative folder.
Here is a list of common expectations for student conduct:
A. Students are expected to respect the authority of school personnel which includes but is not limited to
administration, teachers, staff, and substitutes.
B. Malicious or careless destruction of school property results in the replacement, repair or payment for
damages by the student or his/her parents. The placement of stickers on school property is forbidden.
C. Items that may disrupt the learning environment, including but not limited to water pistols, matches,
lighters, vape pens, vape cartridges, vape chargers, weapons, look -alike weapons, or items that could be
used as weapons are permitted at school or school functions.
D. Items that display images, words, or slogans deemed by school administration to be inappropriate are not
permitted at school or school functions.
E. Threatening words or behavior, acts of aggression, drug or alcohol use or possession will result in
disciplinary referrals and appropriate consequences.
F. Students that push, hit, bite, kick, harass, bully, use the internet or social media to disparage, threaten, or
humiliate will receive discipline referrals and consequences.
G. Any student who disrupts a normal classroom activity, exhibits disrespect or disobedience, uses abusive
or foul language, or violates school rules will be referred to administration for disciplinary consequences.
H. Disciplinary action taken at DSAHS shall accord with the regulations and procedures established by the
school and shall be comparable to action detailed in the Miami -Dade County Public School's Code of
Student Conduct.
Teacher and Staff Intervention: Examples of consequences for minor disciplinary offenses include verbal
warning, phone call to parent, referral to administration, mediation/conflict resolution, or a parent conference.
Here are disciplinary interventions for repetitive minor offenses, including chronic tardiness to class, and more
severe discipline violations:
A. Lunch Detention: requirement to attend a supervised, silent lunch in a classroom.
B. After School Detention; requirement to attend a silent study hall session for an hour after school
C. Confiscation of cell phones, electronics, or any items that may cause damage or disruption.
D. Loss of Privilege(s) to participate in school activities.
E. In School Suspension: assignment in place of class attendance.
F. Out of School Suspension (OSS): Prohibition from attending school or school activities.
G. Parent Contact/Conference: Phone calls, letters, meetings, emails.
H. Referral to Student Services and/or Mental Health Professional: school -based counseling aimed at
improving student behavior.
I. Restitution: payment for damaged property to be repaired of replaced.
J. Threat Assessment: A multidisciplinary team engages in a protocol to evaluate a reported student threat
and take appropriate action.
Here are the categories of behaviors:
A. Level I Behaviors: Acts that disrupt the orderly operation of the classroom, school function, extra-
curricular activities or approved transportation.
B. Level II Behaviors: More serious than Level I because they significantly interfere with learning and/or the
well-being of others.
C. Level III Behaviors: More serious that Level II because they endanger health and safety, damage
property, and/or cause serious discipline to the learning environment. These behaviors require School
Police involvement.
D. Level IV Behaviors: More serious acts of unacceptable behavior than Level III. They seriously endanger
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
health and well-being of others and/or damage property. These behaviors require School Police
involvement.
E. Level V Behaviors: The most serious acts of misconduct and violent actions that threaten life. These
behaviors require School Police involvement.
Dismissal
Students must leave school grounds at dismissal unless participating in an approved after school activity
(athletics, clubs, detention). Parents must wait for their student(s) in the parking lot and must comply with the
established traffic pattern. As a reminder, there is no supervision for students after 3:45pm, unless the students are
involved in a school -sponsored activity while on campus.
Dress Code/School Attire/Uniforms
Many studies have linked productivity and conduct to attire. Our Dress Code requires that students wear DSAHS
polos or sweatshirts, as well as uniform joggers, pants, skorts, or shorts purchased from Chai Tees, the DSAHS
uniform vendor; attire earned as an honor roll gift; or approved official DSAHS team or club attire.
Students are invited to participate in Dress -Down Fridays. On these days, school -appropriate attire is required:
Undergarments may not be visible; hoodies, tank tops, and ripped jeans are prohibited; tops must cover the belly
and back; shorts and skirts must be hemmed and within 8" of knee; human images on clothing must be
appropriately clothed; clothing with words, pictures or symbols that are offensive or promote the use of drugs,
alcohol, tobacco, or any prohibited activity may not be worn on campus or at school activities.
Dress code violations must be corrected before students may attend class. Absences due to dress code violations
are unexcused. Additional disciplinary consequences will be assigned to egregious and repeat offenders.
Here are additional guidelines regarding attire and appearance:
• Hair must be neat, clean, and not a distraction to learning based on the perception of school
administration.
• No hats, hoodies, headbands, scarves, or bandanas may be worn. Exceptions required for religious
observance may be approved by school administration.
• Students must wear closed shoes (toe and heel) at all times. No sandals, flip flops, slippers, slides, and
shoes with pointed or steel toes, metal tips, cleats, or wheels, may be worn.
• Students may not wear apparel that is immodest or offensive on campus or at any school function.
• Spiked accessories or other accessories deemed by administration as potentially injurious or inappropriate
may not be worn.
Please Note: There may be additional dress code issues, according to the judgement of DSAHS administration,
which require attention and earn disciplinary action.
Dual Enrollment
Students are encouraged to enroll in dual enrollment, a cost-free opportunity to earn college credit at Florida
International University or Miami Dade College during summer sessions. This is especially worthwhile for
students to earn credit in a language or in technology classes not offered at DSAHS. Interested students must see
Ms. Nicholson in February.
Emergencies
Emergency situations and communications: As we go through the school day, there could be a number of
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
10
reasons to limit hallway movement within our school building, or restrict all access into or out of the building.
Our first priority during a lock down of any type is to secure the building and make sure all everyone is safe. Law
enforcement is contacted when any threat is perceived. We follow all directions from the local police at that time
and they may ask us not to share any information for a period of time. During a lockdown, no one is permitted to
enter the building and no one may pick up students until approval is received from law enforcement.
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; potentially threatening
community issue; medical issue requiring emergency response; potential on -campus threat; any school event
classified as an emergency.
This list is not all-inclusive. We understand lockdowns can be troubling, especially to students. Students may text
incomplete information. Trust that accurate and up-to-date information will be provided as quickly as possible.
Family Rights and Privacy Act
The revised Family Rights and Privacy Act became a Federal law in November 1974. The intent of this law is to
protect the accuracy and privacy of student educational records. Without your prior consent, only you and
authorized individuals having legitimate educational interests will have access to your student's educational
records. In special instances, you may waive this right of access to allow other agencies working with your
student to have access to those records.
Field Trips
As a learning experience, teachers may plan field trips. Parents may be asked to assist the teacher as chaperones.
Parents serving in this capacity may not have other students accompany them. Parents who are officially selected
to be chaperones may count their hours on the field trip as volunteer hours. All chaperones must go through the
Chaperones approval process as per M-DCPS. Parents serving as chaperones for students on overnight field trips
must also be fingerprinted and background checked per the Jessica Lunsford Act.
Participation in field trips is a privilege. Students may be excluded from participation in any trip for reasons
relating to behavior or conduct, or if they have a negative balance in any school -related account. Students who fail
to follow instructions will be given an appropriate consequence upon return to school. If a student is suspended,
that student may be excluded from participating in field trips and other school events for an extended time period.
Suspended students may not attend a field trip or participate in a school -related activity during the suspension.
Students participating on the field trip are required to ride on the charter bus with classmates. Parents attending
the field trip may not sign their own student(s) out from the school at the end of the scheduled field trip. Students
who do not ride the bus to the field trip location will be marked absent from school for that day. Early dismissal
from a field trip site is not permitted. Field trips must be paid through the MySchoolBucks.Com app. Only
DSAHS students and approved chaperones will be able to attend DSAHS field trips.
Fortify FL (GetFortifyFL.com)
All members of our school community are encouraged to report any potential threat or criminal activity.
GetFortifyFL.com provides an online, anonymous reporting option that will immediately alert law enforcement
and DSAHS administration. Intentionally false reports will be reviewed by school administration and law
enforcement to determine appropriate consequences.
Governing Board
The DSAHS Governing Board is comprised of the Aventura Mayor, Commissioners, and the City Manager.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
11
Communication to the Board should be conducted through the City Manager. For additional information
regarding our Governing Board, click the link on our school website.
Grading
Teachers use a variety of assessments to record an average of at least one grade per week. Grades, progress
updates in PowerSchool, reports on state assessments, standardized testing results, parent conferences, and student
conferences serve as the primary means of communicating progress and achievement. A student's academic grade
reflects the teacher's assessment of the student's mastery of taught standards.
Cheating, uncited plagiarism, unapproved use of Al: Students who cheat, plagiarize, or engage in unauthorized
use of Al will receive a referral to administration, behavioral consequence, and zero credit for the assignment. The
student will be required to complete graded activity to replace the earned zero. To receive credit for the makeup
assignment, the student must complete a comparable assignment while supervised.
Late submissions, makeup tests, and exam retakes for honors and regular classes. Students will not be
academically penalized for turning in an assignment or making up a quiz or test within a reasonable time
(generally before the on -time assignments are graded and returned to students). Here are additional guidelines:
• Assignments for which extended time is allotted may be lengthened and the requirements increased due to
the extra preparation time allotted.
• The teacher may require student to complete the makeup assignment under supervision after school.
• A behavioral consequence may be assigned for not submitting the assignment on time. Punctuality will
impact citizenship grades.
• If a student seeks to retake an exam or quiz, the teacher may require the student to attend a study session
or complete a preparation assignment prior to the retake.
• Late submissions, makeup tests, and exam retakes should be completed within five school days from the
time the grade on the original assessment was communicated to the student.
• Assignments fully completed with fidelity should receive no less than 50% credit if submitted prior to the
final date work is due each quarter, established as the fifth school day before the quarter ends.
• If a student fails to submit an assignment or make up a test more than five days before the final day of the
quarter, the student will earn a zero for that graded assignment or test.
Late submissions, makeup tests, and exam retakes for AICE and AP classes: To reflect the academic rigor
and standard required by AICE and AP classes, the late work and makeup requirements are aligned to match the
collegiate expectations:
• Mastery work for AP and AICE classes will have a firm due date, published at least three school days in
advance.
• Late assignments should be made up as soon as possible, with a 10% drop in the grade each day after the
initial due date, or the due date reestablished due date after absence(s).
• Absent students should be permitted two makeup days for every day of excused absence to take missed
tests or submit assignments. For assignments and tests made up after the reestablished date, the grade
reduction should be applied as detailed in the above bullet.
• Students with avoidable unexcused absences must take missed tests and make up assignments within two
days of returning to school. After two school days, the grade will be reduced as detailed in the second
bullet, above.
• Assignments fully completed with fidelity should receive no less than 50% credit if submitted prior to the
final date work is due each quarter, established as the fifth school day before the quarter ends.
• If a student fails to submit an assignment or make up a test more than five days before the final day of the
quarter, the student will earn a zero for that graded assignment or test.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
12
• Teachers may allow extra time, retake opportunities, and more flexible grading for students experiencing
extreme setbacks due to severe health issues, a family or personal crisis, etc... Any such cases should be
brought to the attention of the teacher as early as possible.
Grade and Percentage
Point Value
Honors Course Point
Value
AICE, AP, Dual Enrollment Course
Point Value*
A - 89.5-100%
4
5
6
B - 79.5-89.4%
3
4
5
C - 69.5-79.4%
2
3
4
D - 59.5-69.4%
1
1
1
F— 0-59.4%
0
0
0
Note that the point value for each class is used to calculate each student's weighted grade point average and rank.
For instance, if Nicholas has straight A's in unweighted courses, Sophia has straight B's in all Honors courses,
and Daniel has all C's in AICE classes, Nicholas, Sophia, and Daniel will each have a cumulative grade point
average of 4.0 and the same rank.
Determining annual grades for high school students: In authorized annual courses, the final grade is
determined by assigning the "Point Value" see above chart, to every quarter score, dividing by 4, and rounding up
if the value ends in a .5. In secondary courses with mandatory Florida End of Course (EOC) assessments, the
EOC score is 30%of the final course grade.
To pass an annual course, students in grades 9-12 must earn a minimum of 4 grade points for the year, and 2 of
these points must be earned in the second semester. If the average annual grade would have been a D or better, the
principal may overrule the second semester 4-point rule and approve for the average grade to be awarded.
Grade Point Average (GPA): Guidelines for interpreting students' grades with respect to grade point average are
provided in School Board Rule 6Gx-13-S5B-1.061. Grade point averages (GPA) impact high school graduation
status; eligibility to participate in interscholastic extracurricular activities; awards and recognition program
participation; membership in honor societies; college admissions and scholarship opportunities.
Grievance Procedure
If a student or his/her parents feel they have a grievance or complaint, they should do the following:
• The student should set an appointment with the teacher to discuss.
• If not resolved, the student should address with the student's dean.
• The next step towards resolution would be to address the concern with the principal.
• It the issue needs additional attention, the student and parent should email Rachel Windler Freitag,
the CSUSA Vice President, rwindlerfreitagAcharterschoolsusa.com.
• If still unresolved, the parent and student should contact Ms. Merchant, Governing Board Liaison,
(305) 466-8008. If Ms. Merchant does not resolve the concern, she will provide guidance regarding
the next step.
Homework
Regular, purposeful homework is an essential component of the instructional process in school. Homework
assignments should be reflected in the gradebook as practice, not mastery.
Honor Roll
Students who make the honor roll will be celebrated each quarter at a recognition ceremony during the school day
the week report cards are distributed. The following criteria must be met to achieve honor roll status at DSAHS.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
13
Principal's Honor Roll: Academic Grades: > 5.5 weighted GPA or straight A's
Superior Honor Roll: Academic Average: > 3.5 weighted GPA, no grade lower than a C
Illness
The importance of regular attendance cannot be over -emphasized, though students should not be sent to school
when they are ill. Students will be sent home if they have symptoms of any contagious ailment. In order for a
student to return to school, he/she should be fever -free without fever reducing medication, and without diarrhea,
nausea, congestion, or a productive cough for at least 24 hours. The school nurse must be notified in writing of
any student's chronic illness (i.e., asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, or seizures, etc.). Please update Emergency
Contact Information when changes occur.
Immunizations
Florida law requires that all students meet requirements for immunizations or have an exemption on file prior to
attending classes. Please contact our school nurse if you have any questions regarding immunizations.
Iniury
An accident report will be completed and filed for everyday accidents in accordance with these guidelines:
• Teachers will send the student to the office if the injury is minor.
• Teachers will notify the office if the student is unable to be moved.
School personnel will administer basic first aid.
The parent(s) will be notified.
Emergency Services will be called for critical injuries, and the parent or emergency contact will be
notified.
Instructional Books, Equipment, Materials, and Supplies
All textbooks and technology needed by students for school and home learning assignments are furnished by the
school. The items issued for student -use are the responsibility of the student and/or parent and must be returned at
the end of the year in the without damage or excessive wear. Failure to do so will result in financial obligations
being assigned to the student to cover the replacement cost. Any student who has not paid for a lost book, or any
other financial obligation(s), will have the unpaid expenses added to the cost of non-academic activities such as
the prom or homecoming, and to participate in any special activities, including graduation.
Laptops and Tablets
Each student will have an approved laptop or tablet, which must be brought to school every day. Students may
register a personal device if the device is approved and prepared by the DSAHS Technology Specialist. Students
who do not register a personal device will receive an iPad or upgraded device for students taking a qualifying
class. Personal devices that are not approved and prepared by our Technology Specialist will not be permitted on
campus during school.
All electronic devices and cell phones on campus are subject to search by an administrator if there is reasonable
suspicion the device contains evidence regarding a disciplinary infraction, threat to any member of our school
community, or criminal offense. All users will be expected to follow the Acceptable Use Policy when utilizing a
device and/or when using the school's network. Disciplinary measures will be implemented in accordance with
the Miami -Dade County Public School's Code of Student Conduct for any student who fails to abide by the
Acceptable Use Policy.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
14
Medication
The administering or dispensing of any medicines (including non-prescription medication) to students by school
employees without specific written authorization by the physician & parents of the student is forbidden. If it is
absolutely necessary that the student take medication in school, a completed Physician's Form must be submitted
to the school nurse. The parent may come to the school to administer medication personally. A Physician's Form
may be obtained from the main office. Students are not allowed to have any medication (not even over the counter
medication) in their possession while at school or any school event. Parents must pick-up and drop-off medicine
in the office. Students are responsible to come to the office at the appropriate time between classes or during
lunch to ask for their medication.
Parent Teacher Cooperative (PTC)
The partnership between the student's home and school support network is essential for student success. The PTC
goal is to enhance engagement of all school community members. This will be done through supporting student
clubs, committees, and team participants, club sponsors, and team coaches in recruiting community member
participation in specific activities.
Parent Volunteer Hours
Parents/guardians, in accordance with the enrollment agreement, are required to volunteer for 20 hours per
household for the 1st student and 30 volunteer hours for two or more students. These hours should be entered by
parents through PowerSchool. For assistance with this process, please call the main office.
Attending athletic games, participating in school events (i.e. theater shows, art exhibits, community events),
joining Parent University learning sessions, helping with club initiatives, completing school -related tasks
including CSUSA surveys, responding to wish lists for the school and classrooms, activities to show appreciation
for staff members such as purchasing class -enhancing items and writing or emailing supportive notes to school
staff.
In accordance with our charter and with state policy, we may not accept money in lieu of monetary donations or
any other parental obligations. However, parents will receive volunteer hours for time spent shopping, preparing,
and delivering donations or supportive cards that benefit members of our school community.
Creating a safe environment for students to learn and succeed is our top priority. The School Volunteer Program
at DSAHS is responsible for electronic registration, background checks, and the training of volunteers. Any
individual interested in volunteering at DSAHS must present a current driver's license.
Charter Schools USA has elected to use the Safe Schools Online Training Program to train Professionals, Support
Staff, and Volunteers on school -related issues. All volunteers MUST have ALL assigned safety courses
completed prior to any volunteer interactions with staff and students on campus and at school -sponsored events.
The completed certificates MUST be printed and submitted to the school office before volunteering. Parents are
not permitted to volunteer in classrooms. Parents must be under the direct supervision of a staff member when
volunteering on campus or at events with students in attendance.
Parking on Campus for Students
Only students with current DSAHS parking permits are allowed to park in the DSAHS or Waterways Park
parking lot 7:30am-4:OOpm on school days. Students who park on campus without a parking pass will earn
disciplinary consequences, and unauthorized cars may be towed at the owner's expense. The cost of an annual
parking pass is $95.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
15
Parking passes will be issued based on a random selection process in order of seniority by grade. Having
a parking pass is a privilege. To qualify for the parking pass lottery, students must be on track to graduate, have a
minimum unweighted GPA of 2.0, and for the preceding or current quarter, meet the following criteria:
1) No more than 5 absences in any one class; early release and late arrival ansences are included in this total.
2) No more than 5 tardies in any one class
3) No more than one in -school suspension
4) No out -of -school suspension
It is anticipated that parking permit holders will demonstrate appropriate responsibility and judgement. However,
this privilege will be revoked or suspended for lack of adherence to the following guidelines:
1) Students operating a vehicle on school grounds must possess a valid Florida Driver's License.
2) The student's vehicle must have a valid Florida Registration and be covered by the insurance required by
Florida law. Proof of valid insurance and registration must be provided for the application to be accepted.
3) Vehicles operated on school grounds must be in safe operating condition.
4) Denial or revocation of a parking permit may result if students exhibit one or more of the following:
a. Having more than 5 absences in any class (absences due to late arrival or early release count
towards this total), more than 5 tardies in any class, more than one in -school suspension, or one
out -of -school suspension during the current or previous quarter.
b. Unpaid fees or obligations.
c. Parking in a spot that does not match the decal.
d. Leaving school grounds without permission.
e. Allowing use of the permit by a driver other than the driver to whom the pass is assigned.
f. Failure to abide by traffic patterns, driving in a careless or unsafe manner.
g. Failure to have a decal properly displayed on the windshield.
h. All cars are subject to search and seizure while parked on campus if there is reasonable suspicion
that the car contains any of the illicit items listed below. Failure to comply will result in
immediate loss of driving privilege, additional consequences, and a referral to law enforcement.
i. Having any illicit items in the car, including but not limited to the following items: drug, alcohol,
intoxicant, tobacco -related product, paraphernalia, vape device, vape cartridge, rolling papers,
pipes, matches, alcoholic beverage containers (empty or full), weapon or item that may be used as
a weapon including bat, blade, brass knuckles, knife, chain, tear gas, pepper spray; a gun of any
sort including, but not limited to air gun, bb gun, paintball gun, pellet gun, staple gun, spear gun,
or toy gun.
j. Transporting a non -student, (any person, other than a guardian or parent, who is not an active
DSAHS student) to school during the school day without administrative pre -approval.
k. Leaving campus during the school day without administrative pre -approval.
1. Having a student in the registered car during that student's school day.
in. Using a phone while driving on campus; driving over 10 mph on campus; driving in a manner
that could jeopardize safety, create a disruption, or damage property.
n. Displaying a flag, banner, poster, sticker, or other item that is deemed by administration as
inappropriate or potentially disruptive.
5) Students are not permitted to remain in their vehicles or in the parking area after arriving on campus.
6) Students may not enter the parking area during the school day unless pre -approved by an administrator.
7) Don Soffer Aventura High School, the City of Aventura, and the School Board of Miami -Dade shall not
be held responsible for damage to vehicles or theft of valuables in cars on school property.
This form must be accompanied by three documents. 1) a photocopy of your driver's license, 2) a photocopy of
the valid and up-to-date Florida Registration for the vehicle listed on this application, and 3) a photocopy of the
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
16
valid and up-to-date Insurance Card for the vehicle listed on this application. Please attach all three documents to
this signed agreement.
Positive School Culture
All students and school employees deserve an educational setting that is safe, orderly, and free from harassment
and bullying. Bullying and harassment, as defined below are prohibited. Our school complies with the Jeffrey
Johnston Stand Up for All Students Act, and Florida Statute 1006.13, the policy of zero tolerance for crime and
victimization.
Bullying, including cyberbullying, is the systematic and chronic inflicting of physical hurt or psychological
distress on one or more people. This may be done through a pattern of unwanted and repeated written, verbal, or
physical behaviors, including threatening, insulting, dehumanizing gestures, that are severe or pervasive enough
to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment; cause discomfort or humiliation; unreasonably
interfere with the individual's school performance or participation; and may include a power differential.
Recording and Photographing
Students must only photograph, video record, or audio record during the school day on campus if pre -approved by
an administrator or teacher. Approved photography and recording may only involve notified, consenting subjects,
and may not be used for any inappropriate purpose.
Registration Requirements
All enrolled students have been randomly selected for admission in an automated lottery process conducted
through the Charter Schools USA enrollment portal. Top priority is given to students who have lived in Aventura
for at least one full year during the open enrollment period at the start of the calendar year. Here is the link for
interested families: https:Hcsusa.schoolmint.net/welcome
Report Cards
Report cards are printed for students at the end of the 1st 2nd and 3rd quarter. Progress report notifications are
emailed at the midpoint of each quarter. Throughout the year, parents and students are encouraged to check grades
and attendance through PowerSchool, our online academic platform. Parents in need of PowerSchool login
information or any other PowerSchool assistance should contact the main office.
School Activities and Clubs
Students at Don Soffer Aventura High School have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities,
including student government, clubs, honor societies, service clubs, school publications, and class activities. Club
meetings are scheduled at times when instruction is not taking place, before or after school, or during lunch.
There will be a club rush event during lunch in September for students to learn about club activities. Club
information is also included in the daily morning announcements and family bulletins. Students may not be
officers or captains of more than three clubs or sports teams simultaneously. Club sponsors interested in waiving
this limitation should consult the principal.
School Hours
Main Office: 7:00am — 4:OOpm
Early Start Student Arrival: 7: l0am — 7:25am; students must be seated and ready to learn by 7:35am.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
17
• Regular Start Student Arrival: 8:00am — 8:25am; students should arrive by 8:25am to be in the classroom
and ready to learn by 8:30am.
• Student Supervision: 7:00am — 3:45pm
School Safety and Security
Safety and security are of paramount importance to the CSUSA and DSAHS faculty and staff. As part of
DSAHS's commitment to being a premier school, it is our priority to provide a safe and secure learning
environment. Students powerfully impact school safety through respecting and valuing differences; through not
promoting or participating in violent interactions; and through not bullying, teasing, gossiping, or sharing negative
information about others.
Any student who feels threatened or endangered or who knows of a student who feels threatened or endangered
must report these concerns to a teacher, administrator, or our school resource officer immediately.
Any student with knowledge of another student or visitor in possession of a weapon, planning to harm someone
else or harm oneself, must share this information with a teacher, administrator, or the school resource officer
immediately.
Though the terms "snitch" and "tattle" have negative connotations, all members of our community must commit
to sharing information that may protect others from life -ending and life -scarring events. Breaking the code of
silence is the first step in creating a safe and healthy school culture. If any student is concerned that sharing such
information will result in retaliation, the student may leave an anonymous note in the office or report
anonymously through GetFortifyFL.Com.
Emergency Operations Plans: Student and employee safety are a primary concern of the Miami -Dade County
Public School (M-DCPS) System and Don Soffer Aventura High School. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
was created to provide school personnel with the necessary leadership skills and knowledge needed to respond to
critical incidents or other related emergencies that may occur in our schools/community. DSAHS has a site -
specific plan to address all types of critical incidents. This plan addresses the individual needs of the school and
provides guidelines for devising communication methods with staff, students, parents/guardians, and the media
during a critical incident or an emergency. Some protective action procedures include the evacuation of
students/staff from the building(s), evacuation of the disabled and, if necessary, the relocation of students/staff
from the school campus, lockdown procedures and holding/dismissing students during school and community
emergencies.
Here are some important tips for parents/guardians to remember during a Critical Incident:
• Monitor media outlets for updates and official messages from DSAHS.
• Know that school personnel will be addressing the issue and not able to answer calls. An email will be
sent via School Messenger as soon as possible.
• If the school is on lockdown, wait until the lockdown is lifted before going to the school.
All DSAHS administrators and Aventura Police officers have been adequately trained in the school EOP and are
prepared to respond immediately during a critical incident or emergency to provide safety for all students.
Safety Drills: We will ensure students and staff are prepared to make their way to safety in the event of an
emergency by conducting required safety drills, including evacuation drills, extreme weather responses, and lock -
down drills. Should we need to evacuate the building, law enforcement officials will assist in determining the
reunification site. Students will be released to parents when law enforcement officials confirm the threat is
mitigated, and administrators confirm conditions allow for safe departure. Students will only be released to those
who present proper identification confirming they are on the Emergency Contact Form.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
18
For information during such an emergency, including the student pickup reunification plan, you may contact
CSUSA at 954-202-3500. Local news stations may also be helpful is always helpful with disseminating
information regarding evacuations and procedures as well.
Screenings
In accordance with Florida Statute 381.0056 (4), students participate in the following required health screenings:
Growth and development screening shall be provided, at a minimum, to students in grades 1, 3 and 6 and
optionally to students in grade 9. In addition, annual screening for at -risk indicators of social emotional concerns
is conducted for newly enrolled students and students in grades 1, 4, 7, and 10. Any parents who desire to opt out
of the screenings, indicated above, for their student shall notify the school in writing.
Senior Privilege
Students qualify for a senior privilege period, allowing them to take six classes during senior year if they meet the
following criteria: Weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher or unweighted GPA of 3.0; Florida Department of Education
testing requirements for graduation met; 20 high school credits have been earned; AICE Diploma coursework
completed or on track to be completed prior to graduation.
Seniors who select Senior Privilege will be assigned to a no -credit study hall class during the privilege period,
either at the beginning or end of the day. During the privilege period, students are not required to be on campus.
Students who choose to be on campus during the privilege period must be in the main office or under the
supervision of a staff member.
Severe Weather
Weather conditions such as lightening alerts, tornado warnings, and severe storm advisories may impact the
school schedule. If weather conditions result in school being closed or the arrival or dismissal schedule being
altered, an alert will be sent to parents through the School Messenger email system.
Student Identification Cards
Student ID's will be distributed once student photos are completed. Students must always have their ID's
available for any requesting staff member when on campus and when attending school events. Failure to
accurately identify oneself will result in disciplinary action.
Student Information System
All parents will have access to the web -based PowerSchool to access student information, including real-time
grades, attendance. If assistance is needed to access PowerSchool, parents should call the main office.
Student Records
Parents, guardians and students are protected by The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Florida
Statutes from individuals' access to information in students' educational records, and are provided the right to
challenge the accuracy of these records. These laws provide that without the prior consent of the parent, guardian
or eligible student, a student's records may not be released, except in accordance with the provisions listed in the
above -cited laws. The laws provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement, which include, but are not
limited to, school officials with a legitimate educational interest and lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders.
Parents, guardians, or eligible students have the right to inspect and review student records annually. Please
contact the Main Office for more information about this. Once a student reaches 18 years of age or is attending an
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
19
institution of post -secondary education, the consent is required from the student only, unless the student qualifies
as a dependent under the law.
Student Rights
Students have the right to feel safe from hostile acts or threats. Threatening conduct, slurs, inappropriate
innuendoes, violent acts, or any conduct that contributes to a hostile environment will result in exclusion from
participation in class and school activities and disciplinary action. All students and employees will be treated with
respect. All such offenses will be reported to law enforcement.
If any parent has a conflict with a student other than their own student, the parent should request to have a
DSAHS staff member address the matter. Parents and all other DSAHS community members may not engage in
an adversarial interaction with a student or other member of our campus or at any school event.
Student Scheduling
The administrative team schedules students based on a seven -step scheduling process designed to maximize
achievement and accommodate students' academic talents and interests. These additional factors will be taken
into consideration: Teacher -assigned grades, standardized and formative assessments, as well as requirements for
a Florida high school diploma, Cambridge AICE diploma, AP Capstone diploma, college admission, NCAA
participation, and building an impressive academic resume. Students should share scheduling input and questions
with their deans or with the principal.
Suspension and/or Expulsion
In accordance with the Miami Dade County Public School's Code of Conduct, the principal is required to
recommend student expulsion for certain offenses, and may recommend student expulsion to the Miami Dade
County Superintendent of Schools for other expellable offense. Prior to suspension or expulsion, the student has
the right to a fair hearing as outlined by the Code of Conduct.
Teacher Conferences
Parents may request a conference by emailing the teacher directly. In the event you do not receive a response by
the next workday, please contact the main office and ask that the teacher be notified of your request for a
conference.
Trespassing
Students may be on the school campus after school hours only if properly supervised. Violators, including
students who come to campus after having been suspended or expelled, will be subject to disciplinary action and
legal action for trespassing. Please note that general supervision is not permitted before 7:00am or after 3:45pm.
If anyone is seen in the building without a visitor sticker or appears as if they do not belong on campus, this
should be reported immediately to the nearest faculty or staff member. Unless directed to do so by an
administrator, students and approved visitors may not open the doors to the school for anyone. All visitors must
be screened through the Main Office.
Valedictorian and Salutatorian Recognition
The cumulative weighted grade point average rounded to the one -thousandth's place for all classes taken at
DSAHS will determine the valedictorian and salutatorian after third quarter grades are entered senior year.
Students must attend DSAHS four years and must meet the criteria to be a National Honor Society member in
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
20
good standing to be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian recognition. A preliminary calculation for these
honors will be done at the start of senior year, allowing students to report in college and scholarship applications
that they are on track to earn these honors.
Here are additional considerations impacting valedictorian and salutatorian calculations:
• In the event a student takes more than seven classes at DSAHS in a year, the top seven grades earned will
be used to determine the meritorious rank.
• Grades earned during the first three quarters of senior year will be averaged and factored as annual
grades, equal to the value of annual grades earned in grades nine, ten, and eleven.
• Only grades for classes taken at DSAHS will be included in this calculation. Grades for classes taken
virtually, in middle school, through dual enrollment, and through external academic programs will not be
included.
The valedictorian and salutatorian may have the privilege of presenting the co -valedictorian or valedictorian and
salutatorian speeches at commencement. If there are more than two valedictorians, a tie -break will be applied to
determine the two speakers for graduation. If there is no tie for valedictorian, and more than one student ties for
salutatorian, a tie -break will be applied to determine which salutatorian will speak at graduation:
• The first tie break will be to assign one extra point for the AICE diploma and one extra point for the AP
Capstone diploma earned by the start of 12t' grade.
• If the students are still tied, the second tie break will be to give one extra point to the student with the
highest number of A's earned at DSAHS each quarter of high school through the end of third quarter,
senior year.
The third tie break will be to give one extra point to the student with the highest number of AICE and AP
exams passed prior to the start of senior year.
If students are still tied after applying the third tie break, one extra point will be given to the student who
earned the highest combined number of AICE exam A's and AP exam 5's.
If students are still tied after applying the fourth tie break, an additional speaker will be added.
Visitors
All visitors, including parents, must report to the office upon arrival during school. For the safety and protection
of students, parents and visitors must present a valid driver's license at the front desk. Parents will also sign in
and out, state whom they are visiting, state the purpose of the visit, and obtain administrative approval before
proceeding to any location other than the main office during school hours. The School Resource Officer will
address any concerns regarding this requirement.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
21
nnN ',OFFER
$�HI GENTUoRA
PARENT OBLIGATION
I (We) the parent(s)/guardian(s) of student:
Code of Conduct and the Dress Code of Don Soffer Aventura High School (DSAHS).
is a Miami Dade County student.
.Wahl
C�
Strong Minds
Good Hearts
have read and agree to abide by the
I (We) understand that my (our) child
WHEREAS, in order to provide my (our) student with a unique educational opportunity;
WHEREAS, by enrolling my (our) student at DSHAS is a decision of my (our) personal choice and not a privilege;
WHEREAS, my (our) desire to enroll my (our) child DSAHS is premised upon my (our) desire to become an active partner in the
education of my (our) child;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing:
1. As a parent of a student at Don Soffer Aventura High School, my (our) commitment is to abide by the following resolutions:
A. To recognize and embrace my role as the primary educator of my child.
B. To participate in the parenting workshops provided by the school.
C. To attend all conferences scheduled with any member of the Don Soffer Aventura High School staff.
D. To participate in the Parent Volunteer Program for 20 hours for the first child and 10 additional hours for any
other children in the family who attend DSAHS. Parents must record their volunteer hours on PowerSchool for administrative
review. The goal is for '/2 of the hours must be completed before Winter Break and the second'/2 by May 1't.
E. To provide transportation to and from school for my child. I understand that if I am late picking up my child,
Don Soffer Aventura High School is not responsible for my child's safety. If my child is continually tardy or absent, I
understand that for the benefit of my child's education, he/she may be required to transfer to a more accessible.
F. To purchase uniforms for my child from the Don Soffer Aventura High School approved supplier and
ensure that my child is wearing the approved uniform daily.
G. To supply lunch, brought from home or purchased from the DSAHS cafeteria, each school day.
H. To be responsible for timely payment of any fees accrued to my account at the school. A negative balance will result
in a requirement to pay an invoice prior to participation in extracurricular activities or school events.
L To participate in at least one of the many parent groups such as PTC, School Advisory Board, club or team booster.
2. To enhance my (our) child's academic growth, I (we) agree to do the following:
A. To read and use the information sent home to keep parents informed of the academic topics to be studied in the
classroom.
B. To provide a suitable time and place within the home for homework.
C. To limit television, video game playing, social media engagement, and phone usage to allow more time for reading,
studying, and family.
D. To check my child's homework nightly.
As proud members of the Charter Schools USA family, we believe all parents should have a choice for their child's
education, and all children deserve access to a quality education. We look forward to sharing information with you regarding
changes in legislation, or other factors that could impact the educational environment or a parent's right to choose. We may
call upon you to help us communicate the importance of putting students first. To assist with the advocacy of school choice,
you agree, by indicating below, to allow for the licensing of your school related demographic data.
You may opt out by checking: No I do not want to participate. Thank you in advance for your support.
I (we) understand that participation in the school, as defined above, fulfills the mission of the school by enhancing my child's
education and the school community as a whole. I (we) understand that such participation is a contractual obligation to the
school and to my (our) child, and that failure or refusal to fulfill this obligation is incompatible with the school's mission.
Therefore, a breach of this obligation by you may impact your child's status with the school.
Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
Date
Once this document is completed, please sign, scan, and email to kareema.bartley([c,ayenturacharterhs.org.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
22
DON SOFFER C S U S A
A$�HIGH SCHOOL AVENTU RA Strong
Good Hearts
Handbook Acknowledgement
Dear Parent,
Please complete, sign, scan, and email to kareema.bartley@aventuracharterhs.org at your earliest convenience.
Student Name
I acknowledge that I have read the parent handbook. I agree to comply with the policies set forth in this
handbook.
Parent/Guardian Signature
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date
Date
Once this document is completed, please sign, scan, and email to at your earliest convenience.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
23
DON SOFFER
$�HIAVENTURA
GH
DON SOFFER AVENTURA HIGH SCHOOL POLICY PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION,
SEXUAL HARRASSMENT, AND OTHER FORMS OF HARASSMENT
CSUSA
Strong Minds
Good Hearts
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.
II. Policy Against Sexual Harassment or Other Forms of Harassment Prohibited by Law
A. The School desires to maintain an academic and work environment in which all employees,
volunteers, and students are treated with respect and dignity. A vital element of this atmosphere is the
School's commitment to equal opportunities and the prohibition of discriminatory practices. The
School's prohibition against discriminatory practices includes prohibitions against sexual harassment,
or any other form of harassment based upon a person's membership in a protected class and
specifically prohibited by applicable state or federal law. The School forbids sexual harassment, or
any other form of illegal harassment, of any employee, student, volunteer, or visitor. The School will
not tolerate sexual harassment or any form of illegal harassment by any of its employees, students,
volunteers or agents.
B. The prohibition against discrimination including sexual and other forms of illegal harassment shall
also apply to non -employee volunteers who work subject to the control of school authorities, and to
all vendors or service providers who have access to School facilities.
III. Definition of Sexual Harassment
A. Prohibited sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, requests for sexual favors, and other
verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
1. Submission to the conduct is explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of an
individual's employment, academic status, or progress.
2. Submission to or rejection of the conduct by an individual is used as the basis for
employment or academic decisions affecting the individual.
3. The conduct has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact on the individual's
academic performance or employment, unreasonably interfering with the individual's
education or employment, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational or
employment environment.
4. Submission to or rejection of the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any
decision affecting the individual regarding any term or condition of employment,
employment or academic benefits, or services, honors, programs, or activities available at or
through the school.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
24
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:
1. Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work or academic
environment;
2. Has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual's work or academic performance;
or
3. Otherwise, adversely affects an individual's employment or academic performance.
B. Examples of prohibited actions, which may constitute harassment include, but are not limited to, the
following:
1. Epithets, slurs or negative stereotypes;
2. Threatening, intimidating or hostile acts, such as stalking; or
3. Written or graphic material that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual
or group and that is placed on walls or elsewhere on the school premises or circulated in the
workplace or academic environment.
V. Retaliation Prohibited
A. Any act of retaliation against an individual who files a complaint alleging a violation of the School's
anti -discrimination policy and/or sexual or illegal harassment policy or who participates in the
investigation of a discrimination complaint is prohibited.
B. Retaliation may include, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment based
upon participation in the investigation if, or filing a complaint of, discrimination.
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.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
25
2. The complaint should be filed with the school Principal. Complaints filed with the Principal must
be forwarded to CSUSA Employee Services within five (5) days of the filing of the complaint. If
the complaint is against the principal, the complaint may be filed directly with CSUSA Employee
Services.
3. If the complaint is against CSUSA Employee Services, the Chief of Schools, or other member of
the School's Board, the complaint may be filed with the School Attorney.
B. Procedures for Processing Complaints
1. Complaints filed against persons other than the Chief of Schools or member of the School's
Board:
a. Upon receipt of the written complaint by CSUSA Employee Services, CSUSA Employee
Services shall investigate or appoint an investigator to conduct an investigation of the
allegations in the complaint. The investigator shall interview the complainant and the
accused; interview any witnesses identified by the complainant, accused, or by other sources;
take statements from all witnesses; and review any relevant documents or other evidence.
Upon completing a review of all evidence relevant to the complaint, the investigator shall
prepare a written summary of the investigation and make a recommendation to CSUSA
Employee Services as to whether there is reasonable cause to believe a violation of the
School's anti -discrimination policy has occurred. Copies of documents, evidence and witness
statements which were considered in the investigation must be sent to CSUSA Employee
Services along with the summary and recommendation.
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.l.a.
(above).
c. The investigation, summary, relevant documents, witnesses' statements and recommendation
should be completed and forwarded to CSUSA Employee Services within thirty (30) days, or
to the School Attorney within thirty (30) days, if the complaint is against CSUSA Employee
Services. CSUSA Employee Services, or School Attorney, respectively, shall review the
investigation summary, evidence and recommendation, and determine within ten (10) days
whether there is reasonable cause to believe a discriminatory practice occurred.
d. If CSUSA Employee Services or School Attorney determines there is reasonable cause to
believe a violation of the nondiscriminatory policy occurred, he or she shall within ten (10)
days provide notice of the reasonable cause finding to the complainant and the accused.
CSUSA Employee Services or School Attorney shall then review the investigatory file,
reasonable cause determination, and all related documents and evidence, to the Chief of
Schools.
e. If CSUSA Employee Services or School Attorney determines, after a review of the
investigation, summary, recommendation and other evidence, that there is no reasonable
cause to believe a discriminatory practice occurred, he or she shall provide within ten (10)
days' notice of the finding of no reasonable cause to the complainant and accused.
f. The complainant may request a no reasonable cause finding by CSUSA Employee Services
or School Attorney be reviewed by the Chief of Schools within ten (10) days of receipt of this
notice. The complainant shall provide a written statement detailing facts in support of his or
her disagreement with the determination. The complainant will also be given an opportunity
to meet with the Chief of Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney to present
his or her position. The Chief of Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney
shall prepare a written memorandum summarizing the content of the conference to be
included in the complaint file. The Chief of Schools shall within ten (10) days of receipt of
the notice make a final determination as to whether there is reasonable cause to believe a
discriminatory practice occurred.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
26
g. If review by the Chief of Schools is not timely requested, CSUSA Employee Services or
School Attorney's determination of no reasonable cause shall be final.
h. The accused may request, within ten (10) days of receipt of a notice of a finding of
reasonable cause, that the determination be reviewed by the Chief of Schools. The request
must include a written statement expressing the accused's position on the complaint and
findings, and address any facts, statements or evidence which he or she submits are
inaccurate. The accused will be given an opportunity to meet with the Chief of Schools and
CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney to present his or her position. The Chief of
Schools and CSUSA Employee Services/School Attorney must within ten (10) days of
receipt of the notice prepare a memorandum summarizing the content of the meeting to be
included in the complaint file.
i. After providing the opportunity for an informal hearing as referenced in section VLB.I.h.
(above), the Chief of Schools shall evaluate all the evidence, the investigation summary,
recommendations and findings, along with any input by the accused and complainant, and
make a final determination as to whether there is reasonable cause to support the
complainant's allegations. He or she shall then determine any necessary disciplinary,
remedial, or other action. Notice of the final disposition of the complaint and any disciplinary
and/or remedial action shall within twenty (20) days of the informal hearing be forwarded to
the accused and the complainant and the Chairman of the School's Board, and a copy of will
be filed with and maintained in the office of Charter Schools USA Senior Director of Human
Resources.
2. Complaints against School Board Members.
a. Complaints against the School's Board Members shall be filed with the School Attorney. The
School Attorney will within twenty (20) days appoint an outside, independent investigator to
conduct an investigation and make a recommendation as to whether a discriminatory practice
has occurred. It is recommended, but not mandatory, that the investigator be an attorney
familiar with federal and state law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of a protected
status.
b. The complainant and accused shall be interviewed by the outside investigator. Both shall
provide written lists of witnesses to be interviewed, and documents or other evidence to be
reviewed as relevant to the complaint. The investigator shall interview all witnesses identified
by the complainant or accused, in addition to witnesses with relevant knowledge which the
investigator may discover from other sources. The investigator shall also review relevant
documents and other evidence. The investigator shall within twenty (20) days of receiving the
complaint prepare a written summary of his or her investigation, and a recommendation to the
School Attorney as to whether there is reasonable cause to believe that a discriminatory
practice may have occurred.
c. If reasonable cause is recommended by the investigator against a School's Board Member,
the recommendation shall within twenty (20) days be forwarded to the Chairman of the
DSAHS Governing Board to determine if there is evidence that a misfeasance or malfeasance
of office occurred. The DSAHS Governing Board will be responsible for taking any
necessary action in accordance with applicable law with reference to an elected official.
d. A finding of no reasonable cause by the outside investigator, which is reviewed and
confirmed by the School Attorney, shall be final and a copy will be forwarded to the
Chairman of the DSAHS Governing Board. In compliance with Florida Statute, the
investigation file shall become public record and the School's Board Member shall answer to
their constituency.
Penalties for confirmed Discrimination or Harassment
a. Student - A substantiated allegation of discrimination or harassment against a student shall
subject that student to disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Student Conduct.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
27
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.
Limited Exemption from Public Records Act and Notification of Parents of Minors
a. To the extent possible, complaints will be treated as confidential and in accordance with
Florida Statutes and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Limited
disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation as described above. The
School's obligation to investigation and take corrective action may supersede an individual's
right to privacy.
b. The parents of a person under the age of 18 who has filed a complaint of discrimination
and/or harassment shall be notified within three (3) days of receipt of a complaint.
DSAHS shall conspicuously post its Notice of Non -Discrimination and Non -Harassment and the name and
telephone number, Assistant Principal Pam Clappier, 786-481-3032, of the employee responsible for compliance
with such policies at its facilities subject to its discretion regarding placement.
CSUSA Employee Services
Charter Schools USA
800 Corporate Drive, Suite 700
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334
(954) 202-3500
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
28
DON SOFFER CSUSA
A$�HIGH SCHOOL AVENTU RA Strong
Good Hearts
Digital Device Agreement (collected during device distribution)
Thanks to generous supplemental funding from the City of Aventura and Charter Schools USA (CSUSA), we are
able to loan a device to each student. These devices remain the property of CSUSA, and are to be used strictly for
schoolwork, enhancing productivity, providing access to learning opportunities beyond the classroom, broadening
research, and fostering communication. Prior to receiving a device, students and their parents/guardians must sign
the mandatory Equipment Borrower Responsibility Form.
School rules apply to students when they are using the device. As students are responsible for their behavior in
class and on school grounds, they must also be responsible when using a CSUSA-owned device, regardless of the
location. The information and procedures found within this document apply to all digital devices used at DSAHS.
Our teachers may also set additional requirements for use in their respective classrooms.
Responsibility: As it states in the Equipment Borrower Responsibility Form, "In the event of loss or damage of
any kind to any item of equipment, the parent/guardian and student shall pay the cost to replace the same in good
repair, condition, and working order; or, if Charter Schools USA determines the equipment to be lost, stolen,
destroyed, or damaged beyond repair, you shall pay Charter Schools USA the book value of the equipment."
Safety and Security: Security and safety are a priority when using CSUSA-owned devices. It is important to note
the specific security/safety and acceptable use concerns that could exist and how those situations will be handled
since the device is being accessed both at on and off school grounds. DSAHS provides a secure, filtered and
monitored environment while students are in school and using the CSUSA computer network.
Software Licensing: The CSUSA-owned device will be configured with a standard -suite of applications and
programs that are appropriate for student use along with State mandated safety applications. Software or
applications for personal use, such as entertainment and games, may not be installed on this device or any
CSUSA-owned device.
Consequences of Misuse and/or Violation of the Provision of the Agreement: Inappropriate use of CSUSA-
owned devices on or around school property, in school vehicles and buses, and at school -sponsored activities may
result in disciplinary action. DSAHS jurisdiction to enforce student behavior and discipline policies shall apply
whether the inappropriate use or violation is at school or away from school.
Limitation of Liability: DSAHS shall not be responsible for and shall be held harmless from any damages
suffered by the student, including those arising from service interruptions, unauthorized use, loss of data, and
exposure to potentially harmful or inappropriate material or people. Use of the digital device and accessing the
Internet or communication technologies with this device is done at the Parent/Guardian/student's own risk.
DSAHS specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the
Internet.
Compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act 2001 (CIPA): In accordance with the Children's Internet
Protection Act (CIPA, updated 2011) parent permission is required for students under 13 to use some online tools.
Any programs will be used for educational purposes only and all educational data will remain private.
Terms of use for CSUSA-owned devices:
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
29
1. The device is the property of CSUSA. The device shall only be used to access educational information and to
promote learning activities both at school and at home. Additionally, students shall
not transmit or knowingly post their own or other's personal information such as telephone numbers, home
addresses, last name, email addresses, photos, or other personal identifying information using CSUSA-owned
devices. The CSUSA-owned device is only for the use of the student to whom it is assigned.
2. Physical and virtual vandalism will not be tolerated. Any intentional act by a student that damages or
interferes with the appearance or performance of the CSUSA-owned device will be considered vandalism and
will be subject to school discipline and appropriate criminal or civil action. Students will be responsible for
keeping their devices clear of stickers or other items that might deface or damage the devices finish, screen, or
other necessary components.
3. Cyber bullying is specifically prohibited. Students agree not to access, submit, send, publish, display, or print
inappropriate material, including ay impolite, abusive, defamatory, obscene, profane, abusive, threatening,
offensive, sexually oriented, or illegal material over the internet or CSUSA network. Any recipient of cyber
bullying should report the incident immediately to an administrator, teacher, or other staff member.
4. Any attempt to load and/or use software on the or to modify the software image loaded on the CSUSA-owned
device is strictly prohibited.
5. The use of CSUSA-owned devices is not private; students should not expect that files stored on or transmitted
via this device will be confidential. All digital transmissions are subject to inspecting and/or monitoring by
DSAHS employees and other officials.
6. This device has been set up specifically to be used on the CSUSA wireless network.
7. Students and their parent/guardians are financially responsible for the device in case of loss, theft, or damage
from the time the device is checked out until it is returned.
8. Students shall immediately report all malfunctions, damage, theft, or loss of a device to a classroom teacher or
school administrator at the school.
Please enter the information requested below and sign to acknowledge that you have read and understood
the terms of this Digital Device Agreement.
Student Name (please print):
Student Signature:
Parent/Guardian Name (please print):
Parent/Guardian Signature:
Student ID
Date:
Date:
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
30
DON SOFFER C S U S A
A$�HIGH SCHOOL AVENTU RA Strong
Good Hearts
Contract for Borrowed Equipment (collected during device distribution)
Student Information
Student (print)
Parent/Guardian (print)
Homeroom Teacher
Grade Level
Address
Telephone Number
Items Checked Out
Item #
Description
Replacement Price, Lost/Damaged
Serial Number
Date
Wad
$550
Dell Latitude
$800
Macbook Air
$1,200
Charger
$40
Protective Case
$50
I acknowledge that I am financially responsible for the items assigned to my student in case of loss, theft, or
damage from the time the item is assigned to my student until my student returns the item. I also agree to return
said materials immediately upon request. The term "financial responsibility" means that the student shall use the
equipment in a careful and proper manner, and shall comply with all laws, Charter Schools USA policies, rules
and regulations related to the possession, proper use, and maintenance of the equipment, and all requirements of
this form; and that the parent/guardian and student assume and bear the entire risk of loss and damage to the
equipment from any and every cause, unless confirmed by a school technology specialist, the such loss or damage
was not caused, in whole or in part, by misuse, carelessness, or neglect.
In the event of loss or damage of any kind to any item of equipment, the parent/guardian and student shall pay the
cost to place the same in good repair, condition, and working order; or, if Charter Schools USA determines the
equipment to be lost, stolen, destroyed, or damaged beyond repair, you shall pay Charter Schools USA the book
value of the equipment.
Student Name (print):
Parent/Guardian Name (print):
Signature:
Signature:
Date:
Date:
For Administration Use Only
Authorized by: Signature Date Issued Date Returned
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
31
,\
AVENTU RA C
HIGH SCHOOL Strong Minds
Good Hearts
Parental Rights in Education Policv
WHEREAS, The 2022 Florida Legislature passed House Bill 1557, Parental Rights in Education which Governor Ron
DeSantis signed into law on March 28, 2022, with an effective date of July 1, 2022.
WHEREAS, This Policy is to ensure the charter school governing board (the "Governing Board") will comply with the
newly amended Section 1001.42, Florida Statutes, relating to student welfare and procedures for notifying a student's parent
if there is a change in the student's services or monitoring related to the student's mental, emotional, or physical health or
well-being and the school's ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for the student.
WHEREAS, This Policy also provides the procedural requirements for the Governing Board and the relationship/duties of
the School Board which serves as the Governing Board's sponsor in relation to the parents' fundamental right of parents to
make decisions regarding the upbringing and control of their children. Nothing in this Policy is intended to prohibit parents
from accessing any of their student's education and health records created, maintained, or used by the Governing Board, as
required by Section 1002.22(2), Florida Statutes.
NOW THEREFORE, The Governing Board, respecting and reinforcing the fundamental rights of parents to make decisions
and control of their children and as required by Section 1001.42, Florida Statutes and further enumerated in Sections 1002.20
and 1014.04, Florida Statutes provides the following:
I. Notification Requirements
The Governing Board shall notify and provide parents/guardians of the following 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 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. Upon receipt of the email and/or
written correspondence from the student's parent/guardian, the principal or his or her designee shall investigate whether
a violation of Section 1001.42, Florida Statutes has occurred. The principal or his or her designee shall, within seven
calendar days after notification by the parent, provide a written summary of the investigative findings and any steps to be
taken and available to both the School and the parent.
If the parent/guardian, within thirty (30) days after notification to the principal or his or her designee of the alleged
violation of Section 1001.42, Florida Statutes, by the parent that the concern remains unresolved, the Governing Board
shall appoint a third party (other than the principal or his or her designee) to investigate whether a violation of Section
1001.42, Florida Statutes has occurred or if there is a change in the student's services or monitoring related to the
student's mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being and/or the school's ability to provide a safe and supportive
learning environment for the student and such change has not been properly communicated to the Parent.
The Governing Board shall receive the summary of findings from the third parry and report the findings to the School
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
32
Board for the School Board to make a final determination of whether a violation of Section 1001.42, Florida Statutes has
occurred or if there is a change in the student's services or monitoring related to the student's mental, emotional, or
physical health or well-being and/or the school's ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for the
student and such change has not been properly communicated to the Parent.
If a concern is not resolved by the School Board, a parent may:
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.
M. Required Communication from Charter School
In the event a charter school principal or the principal's designee is directed to notify a parent by the Governing
Board pursuant to this Policy, the charter school principal or the principal's designee shall make a reasonable
attempt to meet and with the student have the student discuss the issues relating to their upbringing with their
parents prior to the formal written notification to the student's parent/guardian.
For purposes of this policy, "a reasonable attempt to notify" means the exercise of reasonable diligence and care
by the principal or the principal's designee to make contact with the student's parent, guardian, or other known
contact whom the student's parent or guardian has authorized to receive notifications.
At a minimum, the principal or the principal's designee must take the following actions:
a. Use available methods of communication to contact the student's parent, guardian, or other known
emergency contact, including but not limited to, telephone calls, text messages, e-mails, and voice mail
messages following the notification of a when there is a change in the student's services or monitoring
related to the student's mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being and/or the school's ability to
provide a safe and supportive learning environment for the student.
b. Document the method and number of attempts made to contact the student's parent, guardian, or other
known emergency contact, and the outcome of each attempt.
A principal or his or her designee who successfully notifies any other known emergency contact may share only
the information necessary to alert such contact that the parent or caregiver must be contacted. All such
information must be in compliance with federal and state law.
IV. Delaved Communication from Charter School
The principal or the principal's designee may delay notification pursuant to this Policy if:
a. The principal or the principal's designee deems the delay to be in the student's best interest and if there is
knowledge, suspicion, or reason to suspect that such notification may result in abuse, abandonment, or
neglect; or
b. The principal or the principal's designee reasonably believes that such delay is necessary to avoid
jeopardizing the health and safety of the student.
V. Conflict of Law
This policy is intended to supplement Sections 1001.41, 1002.20 and 1014.04, Florida Statutes. If there is any
provision of this policy which conflicts with and Florida Statute, the Florida Statute shall control. In the event
the Department of Education updates, as necessary, school counseling frameworks and standards; educator
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
33
practices and professional conduct principles; and any other student services personnel guidelines, standards, or
frameworks in accordance with the requirements of this act, the Governing Board shall adopt and incorporate
such updated frameworks and standards in compliance with this Policy, Florida Administrative Code, and
Florida Statutes.
Vl. Effective Date
This policy became effective July 1, 2022. The Governing Board reserves the right to change provisions of this
Policy at any time in the future.
Don Soffer Aventura High School, Charter Schools USA — Family Handbook
34