The following policies have been adopted by the Board of Directors of Sun Valley Charter School.

Fiscal and Operational Control Policy

Independent Study Policy

Pupil Suspension and Expulsion Policy

Job Descriptions

Faculty Dress Code

Student Dress Code

Gang Apparel and Actions Policy

Grading Policy

Extracurricular Activities Policy

Clubs and Organizations Policy

Sun Valley Charter School

Fiscal and Operational Control Policy 

The Board of Directors ("Board") of Sun Valley Charter School, Inc. ("School") has reviewed and adopted the following policies to ensure that the School's funds are most effectively used to support the School's mission, and to ensure that the funds are budgeted, accounted for, expended, and maintained in the appropriate fashion.

Overview

1.    The Board of Directors formulates financial policies, hereby delegates execution of the financial policies to the administration staff, and reviews operations and activities.

2. The Administrator has responsibility for all operations and activities, including financial management.

3. Financial duties and responsibilities must be separated so that no one employee has sole control over cash receipts, disbursements, payrolls, and reconciliation of bank accounts.

4. Business services will be addressed internally or contracted out to a professional.

5. All public and private revenue generated by the School will be deposited in an FDIC member financial institution.

6. All forms will be completed by word processor, typewriter, or in ink.

1.0 Petty Cash

1. The petty cash fund will be managed by the Administrator.

2. The petty cash fund will be capped at $300.

3. All petty cash will be kept in a locked petty cash box in a drawer or file cabinet. The Administrator will have keys to the petty cash box and drawer.

4. All disbursements will require a completed and signed petty cash slip. A receipt for all purchases must be attached to the petty cash slip.

5. The Administrator shall insure that the petty cash slip is properly completed and that a proper receipt is attached.

6. At all times the petty cash box will contain receipts and cash totaling $300.

7. When expenditures total $200 or more, the Administrator will total the disbursements and forward the receipts to the appropriate internal or external financial personnel.

8. Petty cash fund reimbursement checks will be made out by the Administrator.

9. The Chief Financial Officer will conduct monthly audit counts of the petty cash fund.

10. Any irregularities in the petty cash fund will be immediately reported in writing to the Administrator and the Board of Directors.

11. Loans will not be made from the petty cash fund.

2.0 Cash Receipts

1. All cash and check receipts will be immediately forwarded to the Administrator or Chief Financial Officer to be endorsed with the corporate deposit stamp or account information.

2. A deposit slip will be completed by the Administrator or Chief Financial Officer as soon as possible.

3. Documentation for all receipts (copy of check, letter, etc.) will be attached to the duplicate deposit slip and filed by month.

4. All receipts will be deposited each day, by the end of the business day.

5. All checks will be endorsed as follows: "For Deposit Only; School; Program; Bank Account Number."

3.0 Purchasing 

1. Purchases over $25 must be approved by the Administrator.

2. Purchase Order forms will be prepared for all orders over $200.00

3. The Administrator when approving purchase orders must:

        a. Determine if the expenditure is budgeted.

        b. Determine if funds are available for all expenditures.

        c. Determine if the expenditure is allowable under a grant.

        d. Determine if the expenditure is necessary to the program.

4. Approved purchase order authorizations will be distributed as follows:

        a. Original - To vendor for purchase.

        b. Duplicate - retained for receiving deliveries. 

The following matrix highlights the requirements for issuance of purchase orders. When a purchase order is required, it must be signed by the Administrator of the school. Any purchase orders over $15,000.00 must also be signed by a member of the Board of Directors of the School.

Textbooks/Classroom Supplies                         P.O. Required

Capital Equipment, i.e. furniture, computers..   P.O. Required

Registration fees                                                  No

Equipment Leases                                              No*  

Utilities                                                                  No

Facility Leases                                                     No*

Freight                                                                   No

Travel                                                                     No

Honorariums                                                          No

Memberships                                                        No

Moving Expenses                                                 No  

Reimbursement to Employees                            No

Payroll                                                                     No

Service Contracts                                                  No*  

Educational Items, i.e. playground balls,            Yes

rulers, supplies, etc.

* Denotes items that require additional approval by the Treasurer of the School. 

4.0 Check Authorization

1. All original invoices will be immediately forwarded to the Administrator for approval.

2. The business services provider will pay only invoices approved for payment by the Administrator.

5.0 Checks

1. The Administrator will be responsible for all blank checks and will keep them under lock and key

2. The business services provider or Administrator will type/write the check based on the check authorization.

3. Two authorized signatures are required on any checks over $2500.00.

4. The Administrator or Chief Financial Officer will stamp all invoices paid.

5. Check vouchers will be distributed as follow:

        a. Original - mailed to payee by the Administrator.

        b. Stub - attached to the invoice and filed by account number by the Administrator.

6. If document is not attached to check duplicate, specific references should be attached to duplicate.

7. The business services provider will record the checks in the general ledger.

8. Voided checks will have VOID written across the front of the check in large letters.

6.0 Bank Reconciliation

1. Bank statements will be received directly, unopened, by the Administrator.

2. Paid checks will be examined for date, name, cancellation, and endorsement.

3. The Business Services provider will prepare the bank reconciliation.

4. The reconciled bank balance will be compared to the cash in the bank account in the general ledger and submitted to the Treasurer.

5. The Administrator should be notified by the Business Services provider of all checks over 60 days outstanding and should take appropriate action if necessary.

7.0 Payroll

1. Payroll services will be contracted through a reputable payroll services provider. Federal and State Tax filings and payments shall be made by that payroll provider.

2. The Business Services provider shall incorporate payroll financial data into the general ledger.

3. Compensatory time and overtime must be approved by the Administrator in writing in advance of the event.

8.0 Travel

1. All out-of-town travel must be approved in advance by the Administrator.

2. Travel advances require written approval from the Administrator.

3. Travel advances require receipts for all advanced funds.

4. After the trip, the employee will enter all of the appropriate information on an expense report.

5. If the advance exceeds the amount of the receipts, then the difference will be immediately paid by the employee in the form of a check.

6. If the advance is less than the amount of the travel, then the difference will be paid with the current expense report.

7. In all cases where expense reimbursement or advances are requested by the Administrator on his/her behalf, all necessary authorizations shall be obtained by the Chief Financial Officer or a member of the Board of Directors.

9.0 Beneficiary & Board Expenses

1. The individual incurring expenses while carrying out the duties of the school will complete and sign an expense report.

2. The expense report will be approved and signed by the Administrator or Board Member.

3. The Administrator will approve the voucher for payment.

4. The check will be prepared by the Administrator or Chief Financial Officer in accordance with cash disbursement  policies.

10.0 Consultants

1. Consideration will be made of in-house capabilities to accomplish services before contracting for them.

2. Written contracts clearly defining work to be performed will be maintained for all consultant and contract services.

3. Consultant services will be paid for as work is performed.

4. The Administrator will approve proposed contracts in writing.

5. The Board of Directors will approve and audit other significant contracts over $5,000.

11.0 Asset Inventory

1. An asset is defined as all items (purchased or donated) with value of $200 or more and with a useful life of at least  one-year.

2. All receipts for purchased asset will be filed by the Administrator.

3. An inventory or log of all assets will be maintained by the Administrator. The log will include the original purchase price and date, a brief description, serial numbers, and other information appropriate for documenting the school's assets.

4. The Administrator will be immediately notified of all cases of loss, damage, or destruction of asset.

12.0 Telephone

1 Personal long distance calls will not be made on school telephones by employees.

2. Employees will reimburse the school for all personal telephone calls.

13.0 Expense Reports

1.     Expense reports will be completed monthly, as necessary, by all employees.

2. Receipts will be required for all expenses over five dollars to be reimbursed.

3. Expense reports must be signed by the employee and initialed by the Administrator.

4. The Administrator's expense report must be signed by the Chief Financial Officer or other member of the Board of  Directors.

14.0 Financial Reporting

1. Financial budgets will be prepared by the Business Services provider in conjunction with the Treasurer.

2. Financial forecast will be updated at least four times a year.

15.0 Loans

1. Loans from third parties will be approved by the funding source and the Board of Directors.

2. A promissory note will be prepared and signed by the Administrator before funds are borrowed.

16.0 Insurance

1. Appropriate insurance will be maintained at all times.

2. Insurance coverage will include: general liability, worker's compensation, and student accident.

3. Insurance policies will be maintained in insurance files by the Administrator or Chief Financial Officer.

4. Insurance policies will be carefully reviewed by the Administrator before renewal.

17.0 Financial Institutions

1. Revenue and funds raised will be maintained at a high quality FDIC insured financial institution.

2. All sources of funds will be maintained or invested in high quality, short maturity, liquid funds as reasonably possible.

3. Physical evidence will be maintained on site for all financial institution transactions.

4. The Board must appoint and approve all individuals authorized to sign checks in accord with these policies. All checks over $2500 .00 must be signed by two authorized signatories.

18.0 Accounts Receivable

1. Documentation will be maintained for account receivables.

2. Accounts receivable will be recorded in the general ledger and collected on a timely basis. 

19.0 Record Keeping

1. Transaction ledgers, canceled/duplicate checks, attendance and entitlement records, payroll records, and any other necessary fiscal documents will be maintained by School staff in a secure location for at least three years, as long as required by applicable law, whichever is longer.

2. Appropriate back-up copies of electronic and paper documentation, including financial and attendance accounting data, will be regularly prepared and stored in a secure off-site location, separate from the school.

20.0 Human Resources

1. All faculty will be hired on a one year contract basis. The contract will be provided for use by the Administrator for  hiring purposes.

2. All faculty members will fill out Drug Free Workplace forms and forms advising them of certain rights and obligations as required by applicable law. Administration is responsible for ensuring current compliance with  the law.

3. The Board of Directors shall annually approve the hiring and pay of the Administration positions(s). Administration will hire at will salary and hourly full and part time positions. All hiring decisions shall be made in light of available           budget.

4. The Treasurer shall submit to Administration by June of each year the salary schedule for faculty for the upcoming  year.

21.0 Annual Financial Audit

1. The Board of Directors will annually appoint an audit committee in January.

2. The committee shall annually contract for the services of an independent certified public accountant to perform an annual fiscal audit.

3. The audit shall include, but not be limited to:

        a. An audit of the accuracy of the school's financial statements

b. An audit of the school's attendance accounting and revenue accuracy practices.

        c. An audit of the school's internal control practices.

22.0 Budget Development and Oversight Calendar

Sun Valley Charter School, Inc. will develop and monitor its budget in accordance with the annual budget development and monitoring calendar as specified below:

January-February

Treasurer presents a review of the Governor's proposed state budget for the upcoming year to the Board of Directors, identifying the likely range of revenue for the school's upcoming fiscal year.

The school administrator identifies areas of need and/or growth for the next year. Business Service Provider works in conjunction with the school administrator to develop a draft budget for the upcoming fiscal year, including projected enrollment and any proposed staffing changes.

Business Service Provider updates the five-year budget projection in accordance with the School's established strategic and growth plans.

                        Ongoing monitoring and revision of current year budget.

March-April

Business Service Provider, in conjunction with school administrator, Board of Directors, President, and Treasurer, prepares a formal budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year.

                        Ongoing monitoring and revision of current year budget.

Business Service Provider solicits bids for the annual audit and recommends an auditor.

May-June

Business Service Provider reviews revenue projections subsequent to the governor's annual "May Revised" budget figures, fine-tuning the upcoming fiscal year budget to accommodate any changes. This budget will include monthly cash flow projections. The Finance committee reviews and finalizes the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year and forwards it to the Board of Directors.

On and before June 15 of each year, the Board reviews and formally adopts a budget for upcoming fiscal year. A copy of the final budget is provided to the charter-granting agency.

July-August

Books for prior fiscal year are closed, all transactions are posted, and records assembled for audit.

Budget is reviewed subsequent to the adoption of the state Budget Act and necessary adjustments are made. A copy of the revised final budget is provided to the charter-granting agency.

The Board of Directors will appoint a committee to select an auditor.

September-December

Independent auditor performs audit of the just-closed fiscal year and prepares audit report for submission to the Board of Directors

At the end of the third full week of school, the Administrator and Business Service Provider review the school's actual attendance figures and notify the Board if actual attendance is below budget projections. If needed, the School's budget is again revised to match likely revenues.

The Board reviews a copy of the audit. Business Service Provider, and the Administrator address any audit exceptions or adverse findings. Audit report and any follow-up plans are submitted to charter-granting agency and the State of California.

                        Ongoing monitoring and revision of current year budget.

23.0 Attendance Accounting

1. The charter school will establish and maintain an appropriate attendance accounting system to record the number of days students are actually in attendance at the school and engaged in the activities required of them by the school.

2. Daily attendance will be recorded on attendance registers by classroom teachers. Attendance registers may be in electronic format, provided such format meets state requirements. State School Registers will be completed on a monthly basis documenting the month's attendance. Required reports will be completed regarding daily attendance and submitted to the requesting agencies.

3. The annual audit will review actual attendance accounting records and practices to ensure compliance. The attendance accounting practices will be in conformance with the Charter Schools Act and the California Administrative Code sections defining the Charter School Average Daily Attendance accounting.

Therefore:

ADA will be computed by dividing the actual number of days of student attendance by the number of calendar days of instruction by the school.

The school's instructional calendar will provide at minimum the equivalent of 175 days of instruction to avoid the fiscal penalty for providing fewer than 175 days of instruction as provided by the Administrative Code regulation.

Non-classroom based study must be pre-arranged by the student's adult guardian and the school. The adult guardian will be required to complete and submit documentation of engagement in instruction activity to the school on forms prepared by the school.

Approved by the Board of Directors

February 7, 2002

Resolution 005-02

INDEPENDENT STUDY POLICY

• The manner, time, frequency, and place for submitting a pupil' s assignments and for reporting his or her progress.  

• The objectives and methods of study for the pupil's work, and the methods utilized to evaluate that work.  

• The specific resources, including materials and personnel, that will be made available to the pupil.  

• A statement of the policies adopted regarding the maximum length of time allowed between the assignment and the completion of a pupil's assigned work, and the number of missed assignments allowed prior to an evaluation of whether or not the pupil should be allowed to continue in independent study.  

• The duration of the independent study agreement, recognizing that no independent study agreement shall be valid for any period longer than one semester, or one-half year for when considering pupils on a year-round calendar.  

• A statement of the number of course credits to be earned by the pupil upon completion.  

• The inclusion of a statement in each independent study agreement that independent study is an optional educational alternative in which no pupil may be required to participate. 

• Each written agreement shall be signed, prior to the commencement of independent study, by the pupil, the pupil's parent, legal guardian, or care giver, if the pupil is less than 18 years of age, the certificated employee who has been designated as having responsibility for the general supervision of independent study, and all persons who have direct responsibility for providing assistance to the pupil. 

• An understanding of independent study by all concerned 

• A positive attitude by both the parents and the student about independent study and its requirements  

• The parents' ability to assist their child and participate in instruction  

• The students' agreement to meet the requirements in the written agreement  

• The students’ ability and willingness to work with limited supervision by a certificated teacher  

• Availability of certificated staff to supervise students' study effectively 

Q. Attendance Rules 

• The Charter School shall maintain records identifying all students grade levels of students participating in independent study. 

• The Charter School shall maintain a file of all agreements with representative samples of completed and evaluated student assignments, with notations on the work samples that indicated the supervising teachers determination of the time value of the student’s work. 

• The Charter School shall maintain a list showing the credits attempted by and awarded to each student along with a record of grade and other evaluations of independent study assignments issued to the students participating in independent study according to the agreement.

R. Missed Appointments  

The Director shall incorporate in program procedures the appropriate use of the following strategies to deal with missed student appointments.  The aim is to increase the student’s achievement as well as to reduce and prevent the student’s failure to meet the terms and conditions of the written agreement.  If a student misses two or more appointments, the Director shall: 

• Immediately telephone or contact the student and/or parent or have the teacher do so. 

• Send a letter of concern to the student and parent, if appropriate. 

• Schedule a special appointment. 

• Set up a special meeting with the teacher and the parent.

Approved by the Board of Directors

February 7, 2002

Resolution 007-02

SUN VALLEY CHARTER SCHOOL

PUPIL SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION POLICY

The Sun Valley Charter School Pupil Suspension and Expulsion Policy has been established in order to promote learning and protect the safety and well being of all students. When the Policy is violated, it may be necessary to suspend or expel a student from regular classroom instruction.

Staff shall enforce disciplinary rules and procedures fairly and consistently amongst all students. This Policy and its Administrative Procedures will be printed and distributed as part of the Student Handbook and will clearly describe discipline expectations.

Discipline includes but is not limited to advising and counseling students, conferring with parents/guardians, detention during and after school hours, use of alternative educational environments, suspension, and expulsion.

Corporal punishment shall not be used as a disciplinary measure against any student. Corporal punishment includes the willful infliction of, or willfully causing the infliction of, or willfully causing the infliction of, physical pain on a student. For purposes of the policy, corporal punishment does not include an employee’s use of force that is reasonable and necessary to protect the employee, students, staff or other persons or to prevent damage to school property.

The Director shall ensure that students and their parents/guardians are notified in writing upon enrollment of all discipline policies and procedures. The notice shall state that this Policy and Administrative Procedures are available on request at the Director’s office.

Suspended or expelled students shall be excluded from all school and school-related activities unless otherwise agreed during the period of suspension or expulsion.

A student identified as an individual with disabilities or for whom the School has a basis of knowledge of a suspected disability pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act ("IDEA") or who is qualified for services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) is subject to the same grounds for suspension and expulsion and is accorded the same due process procedures applicable to regular education students except when federal and state law mandates additional or different procedures. The School will follow Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and all federal and state laws when imposing any form of discipline on a student identified as an individual with disabilities or for whom the School has a basis of knowledge of a suspected disability or who is otherwise qualified for such services or protections in according due process to such students.

A. Definitions (as used in this policy)

1. "Board" means Board of Directors of the Charter School.

2. "Expulsion" means disenrollment from the Charter School.

3. "Schoolday" means a day upon which the Charter School is in session or weekdays during the summer recess.

4. "Suspension" means removal of a pupil from ongoing instruction for adjustment purposes. However, "suspension" does not mean the following:

a. Reassignment to another education program or class at the charter school where the pupil will receive continuing instruction for the length of day prescribed by the Charter School Board for pupils of the same grade level.

b. Referral to a certificated employee designated by the Director to advise pupils.

c. Removal from the class but without reassignment to another class for the remainder of the class period without sending the pupil to the Director or designee.

5. "Pupil" includes a pupil’s parent or guardian or legal counsel or other representative.

6. "School" means the Charter School.

B. Grounds for Suspension and Expulsion of Students

A student may be suspended or expelled for prohibited misconduct if the act is related to school activity or school attendance occurring at the School or at any other school or a School sponsored event at any time including but not limited to: a) while on school grounds; b) while going to or coming from school; c) during the lunch period, whether on or off the school campus; d) during, going to, or coming from a school-sponsored activity; e) during home day, mentoring activities, community service, or internship programs.

C. Enumerated Offenses

Students may be suspended or expelled for any of the following acts when it is determined the pupil:

1. Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person or willfully used force or violence upon the person of another, except in self-defense.

2. Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object unless, in the case of possession of any object of this type, the student had obtained written permission to possess the item from a certificated school employee, with the Director/Administrator or designee’s concurrence.

3. Unlawfully possessed, used, sold or otherwise furnished, or was under the influence of, any controlled substance as defined in Health and Safety Code 11053-11058, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind.

 4. Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any controlled substance as defined in Health and Safety Code 11053-11058, alcoholic beverage or intoxicant of any kind, and then sold, delivered or otherwise furnished to any person another liquid substance or material and represented same as controlled substance, alcoholic beverage or intoxicant.

5. Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion.

6. Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property.

7. Stole or attempted to steal school property or private property.

8. Possessed or used tobacco or any products containing tobacco or nicotine products, including but not limited to cigars, cigarettes, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets and betel.

9. Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity.

10. Unlawfully possessed or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug paraphernalia, as defined in Health and Safety Code 11014.5

11. Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, other school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties.

12. Knowingly received stolen school property or private property.

13. Possessed an imitation firearm, i.e., a replica of a firearm that is so substantially similar in physical properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude that the replica is a firearm.

14. Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in Penal Code 261, 266c, 286, 288, 288a or 289, or committed a sexual battery as defined in Penal Code 243.4.

15. Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a student who is a complaining witness or witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of preventing that student from being a witness and/or retaliating against that student for being a witness.

16. Made terrorist threats against school officials and/or school property.

17. Committed sexual harassment.

18. Caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate violence.

19. Intentionally harassed, threatened or intimidated a student or group of students to the extent of having the actual and reasonably expected effect of materially disrupting class work, creating substantial disorder, and invading student rights by creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment.

The above list is not exhaustive and depending upon the offense, a pupil may be suspended or expelled for misconduct not specified above.

Alternatives to suspension or expulsion will first be attempted with students who are truant, tardy, or otherwise absent from assigned school activities.

D. Suspension Procedure

Suspensions shall be initiated according to the following procedures.

        1) Informal Conference

Suspension shall be preceded, if possible, by an informal conference conducted by the Director or the Director’s designee with the student and his or her parent and, whenever practicable, the teacher, supervisor or school employee who referred the student to the Director.

The conference may be omitted if the Director or designee determines that an emergency situation exists. An "emergency situation" involves a clear and present danger to the lives, safety or health of students or school personnel. If a student is suspended without this conference, both the parent/guardian and student shall be notified of the student’s right to return to school for the purpose of a conference.

At the conference, the pupil shall be informed of the reason for the disciplinary action and the evidence against him or her and shall be given the opportunity to present his or her version and evidence in his or her defense.

This conference shall be held within two school days, unless the pupil waives this right or is physically unable to attend for any reason, including, but not limited to incarceration or hospitalization.

No penalties may be imposed on a pupil for failure of the pupil’s parent or guardian to attend a conference with school officials. Reinstatement of the suspended pupil shall not be contingent upon attendance by the pupil’s parent or guardian at the conference.

        2) Notice to Parents/Guardians

At the time of the suspension, a School employee shall make a reasonable effort to contact the parent/guardian by telephone or in person. Whenever a student is suspended, the parent/guardian shall be notified in writing of the suspension. This notice shall state the specific offense committed by the student. In addition, the notice may also state the date and time when the student may return to school. If school officials wish to ask the parent/guardian to confer regarding matters pertinent to the suspension, the notice may request that the parent/guardian respond to such requests without delay.

        3) Suspension Time Limits/Recommendation for Expulsion

Suspensions, when not including a recommendation for expulsion shall not exceed five (5) consecutive school days per suspension.

Upon a recommendation of expulsion by the Director, the pupil and the pupil’s guardian or representative will be invited to a conference to determine if the suspension for the pupil should be extended pending an expulsion hearing. This determination will be made by the Director upon either of the following determinations: 1) the pupil’s presence will be disruptive to the education process; or 2) the pupil poses a threat or danger to others. Upon either determination, the pupil’s suspension will be extended pending the results of an expulsion hearing.

E. Authority to Expel

A student may be expelled either by the Board following a hearing before it or by the Board upon the recommendation of an Administrative Panel to be assigned by the Board as needed. The Panel should consist of at least three members. The Administrative Panel may recommend expulsion of any student found to have committed an expellable offense.

F. Expulsion Procedures

Students recommended for expulsion are entitled to a hearing to determine whether the student should be expelled. Unless postponed for good cause, the hearing shall be held within thirty (30) school days after the Director or designee determines that the Pupil has committed an expellable offense.

The expulsion hearing will be presided over by the Board President or the chair of the Administrative Panel. In the event a Panel hears the case, it will make a recommendation to the Board for a final decision whether to expel. The hearing shall be held in closed session unless the pupil makes a written request for a public hearing three (3) days prior to the hearing.

Written notice of the hearing shall be forwarded to the student and the student’s parent/guardian at least ten (10) calendar days before the date of the hearing. Upon mailing the notice, it shall be deemed served upon the pupil. The notice shall include:

1) The date and place of the expulsion hearing;

2) A statement of the specific facts, charges and offenses upon which the proposed expulsion is based;

3) A copy of the School’s disciplinary rules which relate to the alleged violation;

4) Notification of the student’s or parent/guardian’s obligation to provide information about the student’s status at the school to any other school district or school to which the student seeks enrollment;

5) The opportunity for the student or the student’s parent/guardian to appear in person or to employ and be represented by counsel or an advocate;

6) The right to inspect and obtain copies of all documents to be used at the hearing;

7) The opportunity to confront and question all witnesses who testify at the hearing;

8) The opportunity to question all evidence presented and to present oral and documentary evidence on the student’s behalf including witnesses.

G. Record of Hearing

A record of the hearing shall be made and may be maintained by any means, including electronic recording, as long as a reasonably accurate and complete written transcription of the proceedings can be made.

H. Presentation of Evidence

While technical rules of evidence do not apply to expulsion hearings, evidence may be admitted and used as proof only if it is the kind of evidence on which reasonable persons can rely in the conduct of serious affairs. A recommendation by the Administrative Panel to expel must be supported by substantial evidence that the student committed an expellable offense.

Findings of fact shall be based solely on the evidence at the hearing. While hearsay evidence is admissible, no decision to expel shall be based solely on hearsay, and sworn declarations may be admitted as testimony from witnesses of whom the Board, Panel or designee determines that disclosure of their identity or testimony at the hearing may subject them to an unreasonable risk of physical or psychological harm.

If, due to a written request by the expelled pupil, the hearing is held at a public meeting, and the charge is committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault or committing a sexual battery as defined in Education Code Section 48900, a complaining witness shall have the right to have his or her testimony heard in a session closed to the public.

The decision of the Administrative Panel shall be in the form of a written recommendation to the Board who will make a final determination regarding the expulsion. The final decision by the Board shall be made within ten (10) school days following the conclusion of the hearing.

I. Written Notice to Expel

The Director or designee following a decision of the Board to expel shall send written notice of the decision to expel, including the Board’s findings of fact, to the student or parent/guardian. This notice shall include the following:

1) Notice of the specific offense committed by the student.

2) Notice of the right to appeal the expulsion to the District Board of Education. If either Board will not hear such appeals, the Charter School will establish a new panel of retired or current school administrators or teachers who are not related to the Charter School to hear expulsion appeals but who will follow the expulsion appeal procedures outlined in Education Code Sections 48921-48924.

3) Notice of the student’s or parent/guardian’s obligation to inform any new district in which the student seeks to enroll of the student’s status with the School.

The Director or designee shall send written notice of the decision to expel to the Student’s District of residence and the County Office of Education.

This notice shall include the following:

        a) The student’s name

        b) The specific expellable offense committed by the student.

J. Disciplinary Records

The School shall maintain records of all student suspensions and expulsions at the School. Such records shall be made available for the Chartering Agency’s review upon request.

K. Expelled Pupils/Alternative Education

Pupils who are expelled shall be responsible for seeking alternative education programs including but not limited to programs within the County or their school district of residence.

L. Rehabilitation Plans

Students who are expelled from the School shall be given a rehabilitation plan upon expulsion as developed by the Board at the time of the expulsion order, which may include, but is not limited to, periodic review as well as assessment at the time of review for readmission. The rehabilitation plan should include a date not later than one year from the date of expulsion when the pupil may reapply to the School for readmission.

M. Readmission

The decision to readmit a pupil or to admit a previously expelled pupil from another school district or charter school shall be in the sole discretion of the Board following a meeting with the Director and the pupil and guardian or representative, to determine whether the pupil has successfully completed the rehabilitation plan and to determine whether the pupil poses a threat to others or will be disruptive to the school environment. The Director shall make a recommendation to the Board following the meeting regarding his or her determination. The pupil’s readmission is also contingent upon the School’s capacity at the time the student

Approved by the Board of Directors

February 7, 2002

Resolution 008-02

Sun Valley Charter School

Job Descriptions

 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I. Job Description

A. The Executive Director is the School’s Administrator and is responsible for:

The direction of the instructional program, the teaching staff, fiscal management, and the operation of the school plant and related facilities.

B. The Executive Director is subordinate to:

The Board of Directors of Sun Valley Charter School.

C. Subordinates to the Executive Director include:

Assistant Director, all charter school staff, and contract workers.

D. Primary Functions

1. The Executive Director serves as a resource for and liaison to the stakeholders of the school community.

2. The Executive Director interprets and implements state laws, Board of Education rules, the charter, MOUs, policies, procedures, and negotiated contracts and leases.

3. The Executive Director provides assistance, guidance, and supervision in instructional practices and curriculum development.

4. The Executive Director provides leadership and facilitates collaboration with all stakeholders on identifying goals for student achievement and standards for assessing the outcome of these goals.

5. The Executive Director participates in preparation of the school budget and is responsible for, and monitors, the expenditures of all school funds in accordance with federal, state and county guidelines.

6. The Executive Director counsels students, recommends and implements student disciplinary actions in accordance with the Education Code, the charter, and school policies.

7. The Executive Director organizes and conducts school extra-curricular activities and fundraising events.

8. The Executive Director maintains a school climate that ensures the safety, health and welfare of students and personnel, and reports child abuse.

9. The Executive Director oversees the school's organization and the appropriate placement of students.

10. The Executive Director maintains positive public relations and outreach contacts with parents, the Ramona Unified School District, and community groups.

11. The Executive Director provides staff development and training.

12. The Executive Director ensures the maintenance of a physical environment that is clean, well maintained, and conducive to good health and safety.

13. The Executive Director evaluates the performance of certificated and classified personnel assigned to the school Site.

14. The Executive Director negotiates contracts and leases to be approved by the Board.

E. Other Functions

1. During periods of critical personnel shortage or other emergency situation, the Executive Director shall temporarily perform duties within the authorization of any credentials held by the incumbent.

2. The Executive Director shall perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors of Sun Valley Charter School.

F. Qualifications

1. The Executive Director at Sun Valley Charter School should possess leadership abilities and a comprehensive educational vision that is consistent with the school's mission and educational program.

2. The Executive Director should possess abilities in hiring and supervising personnel, in utilizing modern technologies, and in business.

3. The Executive Director, as site administrator, shall meet all of the legal requirements, according to charter school law, at the time of hire.

II. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics

A. The Executive Director should possess a working knowledge of the Education Code, Board policies, county policies and operating procedures, and negotiated contracts.

B. The Executive Director should possess the ability to organize and direct an educational program that provides for the intellectual, social, and emotional development of high school students, ages 12-19.

C. The Executive Director should possess the capacity to lead, direct, and supervise teachers and staff.

D. The Executive Director should possess the ability to promote personal development and leadership among students, staff, parents, and colleagues.

E. The Executive Director should possess an understanding of, and sensitivity to, diversity in the school community and knowledge of county resources and instructional materials related to diversity.

F. The Executive Director should possess the ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, peers, county personnel, RUSD personnel, and community representatives.

G. The Executive Director should possess knowledge of the budgetary process and school finances.

H. The Executive Director should possess the ability to make formal public presentations.

I. The Executive Director should possess the ability to compose and comprehend written communication.

J. The Executive Director should possess the ability to travel to other sites/locations.

K. The Executive Director should possess the mobility to traverse all areas of all work sites.

L. The Executive Director should possess the mobility to respond quickly in an emergency situation.

M. The Executive Director should possess the ability to cope with crisis situations.

III. Health

A. The Executive Director should possess the physical and mental fitness to engage in management service as certified by a licensed physician or medical officer pursuant to Education Code Section 44839 and evidence of freedom from active tuberculosis pursuant to Education Code Section 9406.

   

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

I. Job Description

A. The Assistant Director is responsible for:

1. Assisting the Executive Director in the administration of the instructional program, teaching staff, and the operation of the school plant and related facilities.

2. Acting as site administrator, as required by law and by administrative regulations, in the absence of the Executive Director.

B. The Assistant Director is responsible to the Executive Director.

C. Subordinates to the Assistant Director include certificated and classified personnel, as assigned.

D. Primary Functions

                    1. The Assistant Director supports the Executive Director.

2. The Assistant Director serves as a resource for and liaison to the stakeholders of the school community.

3. The Assistant Director interprets and implements state laws, Board of Education rules, the charter, MOUs, policies, procedures, and negotiated contracts.

4. The Assistant Director shares in the supervision of instructional practices and curriculum development.

5. The Assistant Director provides leadership and facilitates collaboration with all stakeholders on identifying goals for student achievement and standards for assessing the outcome of these goals.

6. The Assistant Director assists in the preparation of the school budget and the monitoring of expenditures in accordance with federal, state and county guidelines.

7. The Assistant Director counsels students, recommends and implements student disciplinary actions in accordance with the Education Code, the charter, and school policies.

8. The Assistant Director organizes and conducts school extra-curricular activities and fundraising events.

9. The Assistant Director shares responsibility for the safety, health and welfare of students and personnel, conducts the school's emergency operations program, prepares and maintains emergency disaster plans and information, conducts emergency drills, and assists in child abuse reporting.

10. The Assistant Director assists with the school's organization and the appropriate placement of students.

11. The Assistant Director maintains positive public relations and outreach contacts with parents, the Ramona Unified School District, and community groups.

12. The Assistant Director assists in staff development and training.

13. The Assistant Director shares in the responsibility to maintain a physical environment that is clean, well maintained, and conducive to good health and safety.

E. Qualifications

1. The Assistant Director at Sun Valley Charter School should possess leadership abilities and a comprehensive educational vision that is consistent with the school's mission and educational program.

2. The Assistant Director shall meet all of the legal requirements, according to charter school law, at the time of hire.

II. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Personal Characteristics

A. The Assistant Director should possess a working knowledge of the Education Code, Board policies, county policies and operating procedures, and negotiated contracts.

B. The Assistant Director should possess the ability to assist in the organization and direction of an educational program that provides for the intellectual, social, and emotional development of high school students, ages 12-19.

C. The Assistant Director should possess the capacity to lead, direct, and supervise teachers and staff.

D. The Assistant Director should possess the ability to implement state and county policies related to personnel, budget and school finance, purchases of supplies and equipment, maintenance, and operations.

E. The Assistant Director should possess an understanding of, and sensitivity to, diversity in the school community and knowledge of county resources and instructional materials related to diversity.

F. The Assistant Director should possess the ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, peers, county personnel, RUSD personnel, and community representatives.

G. The Assistant Director should possess the ability to make formal public presentations.

I. The Assistant Director should possess the ability to compose and comprehend written communication.

J. The Assistant Director should possess the ability to travel to other sites/locations.

K. The Assistant Director should possess the mobility to traverse all areas of all work sites.

L. The Assistant Director should possess the mobility to respond quickly in an emergency situation.

M. The Assistant Director should possess the ability to cope with crisis situations.

III. Health

A. The Assistant Director should possess the physical and mental fitness to engage in management service as certified by a licensed physician or medical officer pursuant to Education Code Section 44839 and evidence of freedom from active tuberculosis pursuant to Education Code Section 9406.

TEACHER

I. Job Description

A. The Teachers will be responsible for carrying out the school’s instructional program.

B. Functions

1. Teachers will inform, inspire, and empower their students.

2. Teachers will act as mentors and academic counselors to their students.

3. Teachers will participate in curriculum development.

4. Teachers will assist in identifying goals for student achievement and standards for assessing the outcome of these goals.

5. Teachers will participate in professional development and training.

6. Teachers will help maintain a physical environment that is clean, well maintained, and conducive to good health and safety.

7. Teachers will work with parents and members of the community as educational partners.

8. Teachers will participate in open houses and other school events, as required.

9. Teachers will participate in monthly staff meetings.

C. Qualifications

1. Teachers will be in possession of a California Teaching Credential, or hold an emergency credential and demonstrate satisfactory progress toward meeting their credential obligations. Additionally, all teachers working with ELL students will be required to have a CLAD credential or be actively enrolled to obtain the credential.

II. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Personal Characteristics

A. Teachers should care about their students.

B. Teachers should love teaching and have a talent for it.

C. Teachers should possess authoritative knowledge in their major field of study and have a working knowledge in other fields of study.

D. Teachers should be creative and enthusiastic in their teaching methods.

E. Teachers should be willing to work hard, to take responsibility, and to exercise leadership for the school as a whole.

F. Teachers should possess an understanding of, and sensitivity to, diversity in the school community and knowledge of county resources and instructional materials related to diversity.

G. Teachers should have to ability and desire to work cooperatively with other teachers and administrators.

III. Health

A. Teachers should possess the physical and mental fitness to engage in school service as certified by a licensed physician or medical officer pursuant to Education Code Section 44839 and evidence of freedom from active tuberculosis pursuant to Education Code Section 9406.

 

OTHER STAFF

All other staff members shall meet the basic criteria for employment as identified by the SDCOE and shall possess those qualities held by reference to "employees" above.

The charter school may also employ or retain non-certificated instructional support staff in any case where a prospective staff member has an appropriate mix of subject matter expertise, professional experience, and the demonstrated capacity to work successfully in an instructional support capacity. Instructional support staff will not serve as the "Teacher of record" for individual pupils and may not assign grades or approve student work assignments without the approval of the teacher of record, except in non-core, and/or non-college preparatory courses and activities. The charter school may employ staff to provide instruction in the performing arts, physical education, practical arts, computer certification, miscellaneous licenses/certifications, self-reliance skills, etc., which shall be understood to constitute non-core, non-college preparatory subjects.

All non-instructional staff will possess experience and expertise appropriate for their position within the school as outlined in the school's staffing plan and in the adopted personnel policies.

FINGERPRINTING

All employees will be fingerprinted by the charter school and receive clearance by the charter school prior to reporting to work. No employee may report to work prior to receiving notification of fingerprint clearance.

Approved by the Board of Directors

February 7, 2002

Resolution 004-02

Faculty Dress Code

The Governing Board believes that teachers serve as role models.  They should therefore, maintain professional standards of dress and grooming. Just as overall attitude and instructional competency contribute to a productive learning environment, so do appropriate dress and grooming.

The Board encourages staff, during school hours, to wear clothing that demonstrates their high regard for education and presents an image consistent with their job responsibilities.

Accordingly, all staff shall adhere to the following standards of dress: 

1)      Standards That Apply to All Faculty 

a)      Clothing and jewelry must be safe and appropriate to the educational environment, and should not present a distraction in class. All clothing must be clean and in good-repair. Slits or tears in pants or other articles of clothing are not permitted except for modest slits in women’s dresses or skits that are no higher than above the knee. 

b)      Unconventional hair color is not permitted.  Unconventional hair color includes, but is not limited to, blue, bright red, bright yellow, orange, green and purple.   

c)      Head coverings, including hats of any kind, (except those worn for religious or safety reasons) are not to be worn inside school buildings including assemblies, classrooms, labs and offices. Hats may be worn outside for sun protection.  Such hats shall not have logos that depict and/or promote  drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sex, violence, illegal activities, profanity, or obscenity.  All hats are to be removed upon entering school buildings.  For exceptions to this policy, prior approval must be granted by the Executive Director.   

d)      Slacks are to be worn on the waist with no portion of an undergarment showing. Jeans are not permitted. Short pants are not permitted. 

e)      Skirts and dresses should be modest in length – no higher than the knee. 

f)        All tops must have sleeves. (Cap sleeves are acceptable.) Tops that are see-through, or show any part of an undergarment, are not acceptable. Tops exposing cleavage are not permitted. Clothing that exposes bare midriffs is not permitted. 

g)      Body piercing, other than earrings, is not permitted. For safety purposes, earrings must not dangle more than one inch below the ear. 

h)      Clothing or jewelry with logos that depict and/or promote drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sex, violence, illegal activities, profanity, or obscenity are not permitted. 

i)        Appropriate shoes must be worn at all times. For academic classrooms, dress shoes should be worn. For physical education, proper athletic shoes should be worn. Exceptions will be made for medical conditions. 

All faculty members shall dress in a business-like and professional manner.  The following is an example of appropriate attire:  

For Women:   Dress slacks with blouses, collared shirts, or sweaters and blazers; business dresses; business skirts with blouses or sweaters and blazers; business suits.

For Men:        Business suits; dress slacks with shirt and tie, collared shirts,  and sweaters, vests or blazers. 

This list is not exhaustive; rather, it is intended to provide a standard for appropriate school attire. 

Failure to follow the Dress Code will be grounds for discipline including dismissal.

Student Dress Code

Section 6401 

DRESS AND GROOMING CODE FOR STUDENTS

 The Board of Directors of Sun Valley Charter School believes that appropriate attire and grooming enhances the educational environment and decreases distractions. The Board also believes that student behavior is related to dress and grooming.  

Accordingly, all students shall adhere to the following standards of dress and grooming: 

1)      Clothing and jewelry must be safe, appropriate to the educational environment, and should not present a distraction in class. Chains longer than 12 inches must be no larger than .25 inches in diameter. Sharp or spiked jewelry is not permitted. All clothing must be clean and in good repair. Slits, tears, holes, or frayed edges in pants or other articles of clothing are not permitted except for modest slits in girl’s dresses or skirts that are no higher than 3 inches above the knee. 

2)      Legitimate religious apparel is exempt from this policy. 

3)      Hair should be of natural color. Frostings and bleaches are allowed. Unconventional hair color is not permitted.  Unconventional hair color includes, but is not limited to, blue, bright red, bright yellow, orange, green and purple.  Surface colorants are not permitted.  

4)      Hair shall be neatly groomed. Gels and mousses are allowed. Short spikes are allowed (no longer than 3 inches). Mohawks, partial crew cuts, dreadlocks (except for religious reasons), and spiked hair longer than 3 inches, are not allowed. 

5)      Hair may not be longer than to the belt. No shaved heads. (A head is considered shaved if all hair has been removed to the scalp.) 

6)      Conventional hair adornments, such as hair bands, bows, beads, barrettes, etc., may be worn provided they are no wider than the student’s head and do not obstruct another student’s view. Hair adornments must not present a safety hazard.

7)      Head coverings, including hats of any kind, (except those worn for religious or safety reasons) are not to be worn inside any school building including assemblies, classrooms, labs and offices. Hats may be worn outside for sun protection.  Such hats shall not have logos that depict and/or promote gangs (as defined in Section 6402 of this Code), drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sex, violence, illegal activities, profanity, or obscenity.  Oversized or costume hats are not permitted. 

8)      Pants should be of appropriate size for the individual (they must be sized so that they would not fall down if worn without a belt). Pants are to be worn with no portion of the midriff exposed and no portion of an undergarment showing. Oversized bellbottoms and pants with holes are not allowed. Pants should not drag on the ground. Pants must not present a safety hazard. 

9)      Belts may have metal studs (flat or dull surfaces). Belts with metal spikes (pointed or sharp surfaces) are not allowed. Illegal belt buckles are not allowed. 

10)  Shorts should be modest in length – no higher than mid-thigh. No cut-offs or shorts with frayed edges are allowed. “Skorts” are considered to be shorts in this policy. (For the purposes of this policy, mid-thigh is defined as the midpoint between the knee and the fold where the upper thigh meets the abdomen.) 

11)  Skirts and dresses should be modest in length – no higher than 3 inches above the knee. No see-through skirts or dresses. 

12)  All tops (including the upper portion of dresses) must have at least two inch straps with tight-fitting arm holes. Tops that are see-through, or that expose any part of an undergarment, are not permitted. Tops exposing cleavage are not permitted. Tops that expose bare midriffs are not permitted. Strapless tops and halter-tops are not permitted.  

13)  No portion of an undergarment may be exposed at any time. 

14)  Athletic wear appropriate to a sport may be worn while participating in the sport. 

15)  Swimwear is not to be worn to school, except when participating in aquatic activities. 

16)  Gang-style clothing, as defined in Section 6402 of this Code, is not permitted. 

17)  Trench-coats are not allowed, except during times of inclement weather. 

18)  Multiple earrings are allowed, but for safety purposes, earrings must not dangle more than one inch below the ear. 

19)  Visible or otherwise apparent adorned body piercing (other than ears) is not permitted. Non-visible piercing retainers are allowed. 

20)  Visible body art is not permitted. (Body art includes tattoos, hennas, and any other form or writing or artwork applied to or under the skin.) 

21)  Clothing or jewelry with logos that depict and/or promote gangs (as defined in Section 6402 of this Code), drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sex, violence, illegal activities, profanity, or obscenity is not permitted. Altered logos are not permitted. 

22)  Appropriate shoes must be worn at all times. Sandals are allowed, but must be securely attached to the foot. Shower shoes (e.g. flip-flops) are not acceptable school footwear. Platform shoes with soles thicker than 2” and high heels are not allowed. 

23)  Footwear worn in the Science Labs must be of close-toed design. For physical education, proper athletic shoes should be worn. Shoes with laces must be tied. Shoes with buckles or latches must be secured.

This list is not exhaustive; rather, it is intended to provide a standard for appropriate school attire. 

Enforcement 

1. Students arriving at school wearing inappropriate attire will be asked to phone home to get appropriate clothing before being allowed to attend classes.
2. If a parent cannot be reached, the student will be offered an appropriate T-shirt and/or acceptable pants to wear until a parent can be reached.
3. In cases where the infraction cannot or will not be remedied by the wearing of appropriate parent-supplied or school-supplied clothing (ie., inappropriate hair color, refusal to remove inappropriate jewelry, refusal to wear supplied clothing), a student will be disciplined in accordance with the Pupil Suspension and Expulsion Policy, Section 6601 of the Administrative Code, as follows:

1. First infraction: in-school suspension, conference with parents.
2. Second infraction: One-day at-home suspension, conference with parents.
3. Third infraction: Two-day at-home suspension, conference with parents.
4. Fourth infraction: Three-day at-home suspension, conference with parents.
5. Fifth infraction: Expulsion

 For exceptions to this policy, prior written approval must be granted by the Executive Director. 

Gang Apparel and Actions

Section 6402

 GANG APPAREL AND ACTIONS

                The Board recognizes that gangs and/or individual gang members operate in the Ramona area. It is the Board’s intent to protect students at the School from gang-related activities. Wearing of gang related apparel and/or insignias, even if inadvertent, invites gang activity and may place students at risk of potential violence against them. As a part of the effort to minimize the influence of gangs at the School, this policy will address gang related apparel, paraphernalia, and actions. 

A.        Gang members identify themselves in the following manner:

1.      Wearing certain types of clothing, combinations of clothing, or jewelry.

2.      Wearing items of clothing or jewelry that have been altered to denote membership.

3.      Certain tattoos and other body art.

4.      Hand signs and other actions.

B.         The following gangs have been identified as operating in San Diego County:

1.      White: Skinheads, Supreme White Power (SWP), Boot Boys, White Aryan Race (WAR).

2.      Hispanic: Logan 3oth Street, Logan Red Steps, Shelltown, Sherman, Barrio Market Street, East San Diego, Paradise Hills Locos, WOP Town Mission Bay.

3.      African American: Crips (Neighborhood Crips, East Dago Mob), Piru/Blood (East Side Piru, Skyline Piru, Lincoln Park/Syndo Mob, Upside Sick, 5/9 Brim).

4.      Filipino: BahalaNa Barkada, B-Down Boys, Mira Mesa Crips, Southside Bloods, Pinoy, Northside Bloods.

5.      Asian: Tiny Oriental Crips, Oriental Boy Soldiers, Oriental Killers, Asian Killers.

6.      Multi-Racial: Linda Vista Crips, Paradise Hills Locos.

C.        The following apparel, paraphernalia, insignias, logos, and/or jewelry worn in isolation or in combination with other items indicate gang affiliation and are not permitted at any school function:

1.      Insignias, logos, terms, pictures, body art, and/or jewelry that indicate gang affiliation or are altered to indicate gang affiliation. The following are specific examples:

a.      Jewelry denoting gang membership (ie., swastikas, iron crosses, lightening bolts, dog chains)

b.      altered logos

c.      altered slogans

d.      gang names

e.      initials of gang names (ie. WAR, SWP, VSTR, LH30TA, CXXXTA, OBS, IGF, etc.)

f.        numbers standing for initials of gang names (ie., 976 stands for IGF, Insane Gang Family. The numbers are the position of the letters in the alphabet. Others include 1208 for LH – Logan Heights, 120830 – Logan Heights 30^th Street, etc.)

g.      terms associated with specific gangs (ie., “Little Afrika”, “Upside”, “1980”, “Gamma Boys”)

h.      Pictures indicating gang affiliation (ie. Picture of a bloodhound with bloody arm coming out of its mouth – black hand with blue sleeve – indicating that a “Blood” just ate a “Crip”, picture of a rabbit in front of city skyline – stands for “Upside Sick”, “Uptown Bunny Boys”)

2.      Bandanas of any color, worn on the head, carried on any part of the body, or attached to any item carried by the student.

3.      Any hat or cap with altered logos, racist slogans, artwork indicating gang affiliation, letters, numbers, or terms specifying or identifying a gang.

4.      Any article of clothing with altered logos, racist slogans, artwork indicating gang affiliation, letters, numbers, or terms specifying or identifying a gang.

5.      Gloves hanging out of the pocket.

6.      Rings worn across all fingers.

D.            Wearing combinations of two or more of the following items indicate potential gang affiliation and are not permitted at any school function:

1.      Oversized pants (two sizes or more above normal) – worn low on the hips creating a sagging appearance, or worn high over the waist and cinched tight with a belt.

2.      Pendletons – worn with the top collar buttons and cuffs buttoned, open the rest of the way down.

3.      Trench coats.

4.      Gloves – single, worn as a pair.

5.      Hats or caps of a solid color, professional sport team hats (ie., L.A. Raiders, Chicago Bulls, Kansas City Royals, New York Knicks), knit caps.

6.      Professional sport team jackets.

E.            Wearing predominantly one color of clothing (ie., all red, blue, black, or camouflage) on a consistent or frequent basis indicates potential gang affiliation and is not permitted.

F.         The following actions indicate gang affiliation and are not permitted at any school function:

1.      Hand Signs – “Throwing Signs” is a method of signaling gang members by forming letters or numbers with the hands and/or fingers. These “signs” depict the gang symbol or initials. “Signs” can be used to issue a challenge to a rival gang member.

2.      Mad-dogging – A common method of intimidation used by gang members. It consists of staring or glaring at one another with the intent to intimidate. Mad-dogging frequently results in violent confrontation.

Reference: 

 “Specific Gang Related Dress – San Diego Street Gangs,” published by San Diego Youth and Community Services. (This pamphlet is used by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department to assist them in the identification of gang members.)

Grading Policy

The Board recognizes the desirability and need to evaluate each student's achievement periodically during each course of instruction. The Board also supports the right of the teacher to determine the appropriate grade to be given. In the absence of clerical or mechanical mistake, fraud, bad faith, or incompetence, neither the Board nor any administrator shall order a student's grade to be changed, and the grade determined by the teacher shall be final.

It is nevertheless desirable that grades given by different teachers should be sufficiently consistent throughout the School so that all grades can be used for purposes of School standards and comparability, such as determining eligibility for extracurricular participation or identifying Honor Graduates.

The Board believes that students and parents/guardians have the right to receive course grades that represent an accurate evaluation of the student's achievement. Teachers shall evaluate a student's work in relation to standards that apply to all students at his/her grade level, not in relation to the work of other students in one particular class.

Grades should be based on impartial, consistent observation of the quality of the student's work and his/her mastery of course content and objectives as demonstrated through classroom participation, homework, projects, presentations, portfolios, and tests.    The student's behavior shall be reported in separate evaluations, not in his/her academic grade.

The following grading system and accompanying guidelines, rules, and regulations have been developed to meet the needs of grading consistency throughout the School and individual instructor freedom in assigning marks.

Meaning of Individual Letter Grades

1.      An "A" grade indicates outstanding student achievement.

2.      A "B" grade indicates above-average student achievement.

3.      A "C" grade indicates average student achievement.

4.      A "D" grade indicates low or poor student achievement.

5.      An "F" grade indicates failure on the part of the student to comprehend the subject and/or failure to complete the minimum course requirements established by the teacher.

6.      An "incomplete" may be given at the end of a semester. All incompletes must be made up within four weeks after the beginning of the next semester, or the grade may be recorded as failing.

As soon as the incompletes have been recorded, the records clerk will furnish the Executive Director or designee with the names of students who have incompletes. The student or parents/guardian will contact the teacher about makeup. At the end of the four-week period, the Executive Director or designee will contact the individual instructor about the incompletes which are still outstanding and will record a grade as directed by the instructor.

The Relationship of Grading to Grouping

The School recognizes value in both homogeneous and heterogeneous class groupings. A student in any of the groupings, honors through basic, who performs up to the standards established by the teacher should receive the grade he/she deserves and has earned. Also, students who demonstrate superior achievement, after consultation with parents/guardian, teacher, and certificated guidance personnel, should be encouraged to move into a more challenging course. Within each class, students should be graded in relation to their peers.  

Valedictorian, Salutatorian, Honor Graduates

1. A Valedictorian Selection Committee will select a single valedictorian from approximately the top one percent of the senior class, based on the accumulated transcript at the eighth semester, second progress report. The individual(s) with the highest ranking grade point average(s) shall be included as a potential valedictorian. Computation of overall grade point average(s) will include grades nine through twelve.

2. It is not the intent of this regulation to exclude students from consideration for valedictorian for completing supplemental or elective coursework. The deliberations may include additional students beyond the top one percent.

3. In choosing the valedictorian, it is recommended that the Valedictorian Selection Committee consider the following criteria:

a. Academic achievement and curiosity, not school service

b. Behavior that reflects the highest ethical standards

c. Breadth and depth of program, to include number of courses completed and the number of AP and honors courses completed

4. It is suggested that the Valedictorian Selection Committee be chaired by the Executive Director. It shall be composed of, but not limited to, representatives selected from the following departments and approved by the Executive Director:

a)      English

b)      Social Studies

c)      Mathematics

d)      Science

e)      Foreign Language

f)        Other interested departments

5. There may or may not be a salutatorian designated by the Committee.

6. The 4-point grade scale ("A" = 4; "B" = 3; "C" = 2; "D" = 1; "F" = 0) will apply to all courses except those designated as Advanced Placement.

7. The 5-point grade scale ("A" = 5; "B" = 4; "C" = 3; "D" = 1; "F" = 0) will be instituted at the Advanced Placement level. Only courses contained in the School Master Course Title List which are designated as Advanced Placement, in the following course academic departments (English, social science, mathematics, science, and foreign language) shall be counted in the 5-point A scale.

8. All students achieving a GPA of 3.5 or above, based on the accumulated transcript at the seventh semester, or the eighth semester second progress report, shall be recognized as Honor Graduates.

Conduct as a Factor in Grading

Every effort should be made to distinguish between the academic grade and the conduct mark. Specific marks are given for conduct. It is recognized that student effort will affect the academic grade.

Behavior that justifies lowering the conduct mark:

1.      Exercises destructive behavior in the classroom

2.      Is not trustworthy

3.      Violates safety rules

4.      Does not show respect for school or School property

5.      Does not show respect for personal property of others

6.      Uses profanity or vulgar language

7.      Is discourteous to fellow students and/or teacher

8.      Is cheating

9.      Is tardy to class

10.  Is truant from class

11.  Exhibits lewd or inflamatory behavior or gestures

12.  Has a pattern of being absent on due dates

13.  Does not bring necessary supplies to class; e.g., books, pencils, direction sheets

Quantity vs. Quality in Grading

The School believes that the emphasis on education should be on quality of student performance. Teacher emphasis should be directed toward demanding of each student the highest quality performance of which he/she is capable.

Weight of Examinations, Special Assignments

No single course assignment or course project, including final examination, shall be weighted at more than 25 percent of the semester grade.

College Course Work

Duplicate credit may be awarded for college course work. The Executive Director may certify completion of specific high school graduation requirements based upon a student's completion of comparable college courses.

Providing Information to Parents/Guardians and Students

State law requires official notification of potential student failure by the means regularly employed by a School to communicate with parents/guardians. The means used in this School is the United States mail.

The classroom teacher must provide information to each student regarding the basis of grading in the class. No student will be given a failing semester grade unless the parents/guardians were previously warned by an official "Notice to Parents," or through the student's receiving a "D," "F," or "INC" grade at the 13-week progress report. Whenever a teacher identifies a student to be at risk of receiving a "D" or "F" grade, parent/guardian contact should be made in a timely manner so that remediation efforts can take place.

The School's 13-week progress report form shall notify parents/guardian that "D," "F," or "Incomplete" grades indicate the possibility of semester failure and that parent-teacher conferencing to improve student achievement is recommended. The Executive Director or designee shall notify parents/guardians of potential failure if notice is not given with the 13-week progress report.

Teachers must accumulate enough written evidence on the final grade given each student so that there is no question regarding the accuracy of the mark.

Throughout the semester, students may obtain information from the teacher about their grades.

Effect of Absence on Grades

The School recognizes the relationship between positive student attendance and academic success.

Parents/guardians shall be notified in writing when accumulated absences during the semester reach 10 hours of class time. In the event of extenuating circumstances, the Executive Director or designee should discuss the case with the teacher involved.

A student must be in class a minimum of 60 hours to receive five units of credit. There will be no automatic drop from class. Students may be dropped for excessive absences (exceeding 15), if the teacher determines that the absences, in combination with lack of effort, lack of academic success, or poor attitude results in disruptive behavior. The teacher will notify the parent/guardian of his/her recommendation to remove the student from the class with loss of credit. Suggested strategies for contacting parents/guardians would include telephone contact or in-office conference. Students and parents/guardians must recognize that there is a direct relationship between school attendance and grades/credits earned.

Early Check Out From All Classes

1. If a student checks out of school prior to the end of the semester, and the teacher determines the student has not met minimum attendance and course requirements, the teacher will issue the student a grade to date of leaving.

2. If a student checks out prior to the end of a semester and the teacher determines the student has met minimum attendance and course requirements, the teacher will issue a final grade.

Responsibilities for Grading

1. Teachers - The classroom teacher is the sole arbiter of the grade given a student. No grade or course title is to be changed by an administrator or records clerk without specific written authorization from the teacher, unless the grade was issued as a result of a mistake, bad faith, fraud, or incompetence. The classroom teacher has the responsibility to meet with parents/guardians and students to explain grades given when such grades are challenged.

2. Executive Director - The Executive Director will work closely with his/her faculty in establishing grading standards which are reasonable and consistent and fulfill the School tradition of quality. He/she should ensure establishment and publication of teachers' policies for grading, attendance (as it affects grading), and makeup. (These statements shall be distributed in the first 15 days of each semester.) It is also the responsibility of the Executive Director to examine grade distribution reports prepared each semester by data processing. It shall be within his/her prerogative to discuss with individual teachers and departments instances where the grading appears to be at variance with standards across the School. His/her responsibility shall extend to discussion of grading standards with teachers but does not include the right to change grades. On the request of either the teacher or Executive Director, the department head shall be included in the discussion.

Withdrawal Passing and Withdrawal Failure From Individual Regular School Year Classes

1. There are two types of withdrawals from class that can be initiated by the student or the Executive Director. They are: withdrawal passing and withdrawal failure.

2. During the first nine weeks of a semester, a student may withdraw from any class without penalty - nothing will be displayed on the mark history file.

3. Beginning with week ten, and extending to the third week before the end of a semester, a student may withdraw without credit, but will receive a withdrawal grade which will be recorded on the mark history file.

4. During the last three weeks of a semester (finals week included), any withdrawal will be a W/F or F. Exceptions may be granted by the Executive Director or designee on an individual basis due to extenuating circumstances.  

Withdrawal Passing and Withdrawal Failure From Individual Summer School Classes

1. During the first 32 scheduled hours of a one-semester summer school course, a student may withdraw without penalty, and no record will be displayed on the mark history file. (This equates to the first 8 days of a 3 1/2 week/4-hours-per-day schedule, or the first 16 days of a 7 week/2-hours-per-day schedule.)

2. Beginning with the 33rd scheduled hour of a one-semester summer school course and extending through the 56th scheduled hour, a student may withdraw without credit, but will receive a withdrawal grade (WP or WF) which will be recorded on the mark history file. (This equates to days 9 through 14 of a 3 1/2 week/4-hours-per-day schedule, or days 17 through 28 of a 7 week/2-hours-per-day schedule.)

3. During the last 12 scheduled hours of a one-semester summer school course, any withdrawal will be recorded as a W/F or F. (This equates to the last 3 days of a 3 1/2 week/4-hours-per-day schedule, or the last 6 days of a 7 week/2-hours-per-day schedule.) Exceptions may be granted by the Executive Director or designee on an individual basis due to extenuating circumstances.

Credit/No Credit Option

A student may, with prior administrative approval, enroll in elective courses on a Credit/No Credit basis. An elective course is a course that the student is not taking in order to meet a specific graduation course requirement. A maximum of 20 units of Credit/No Credit course work may be applied to the 220 unit graduation requirement. The Credit/No Credit option may only be exercised if the student is concurrently enrolled in at least five other five-credit courses for which a letter grade will be issued.

(The student is cautioned that colleges and universities may decline to consider course work completed on a Credit/No Credit basis when evaluating the transcript of an applicant for admission.)

Extracurricular Activities Policy

The Board recognizes that extracurricular and cocurricular activities enrich the educational and social development and experiences of students. The School shall encourage and support student participation in extra/cocurricular activities without compromising the integrity and purpose of the educational program. As such, the Board believes that academic and citizenship standards are prerequisites for participation in extracurricular and cocurricular activities.

No student shall be prohibited from participating in extra/cocurricular activities related to the educational program because of inability to pay fees associated with the activity.

The Executive Director or designee shall ensure that disabled students have access, to the extent possible, to extracurricular and cocurricular activities, student organizations, and school-related social events, regardless of the severity or nature of their disabilities.

The Executive Director is responsible to see that sufficient supervision is provided to meet legal and Board policy requirements.

Extra/cocurricular activities shall be supervised by School employees whenever they are conducted under the name of the School.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to participate in extra/cocurricular activities, students must demonstrate satisfactory educational progress in meeting the requirements for graduation.

To encourage and support academic excellence, the Board requires students to earn a minimum 2.5 or "C+" grade-point average on a 4.0 scale in order to participate in extra/cocurricular activities. The grade-pointa average will be computed based on all courses in which the student was enrolled during the preceding grading period and for which a letter grade was assigned.

The Executive Director or designee may grant ineligible students a probation period of not more than one semester.

Course Enrollment

Each student to be considered for eligibility must be enrolled in five 5-unit courses within the regular school day and maintain this enrollment throughout each grading period. Such enrollment will constitute satisfactory progress toward meeting the requirements for graduation.

Conduct Situations

The Executive Director or designee may revoke a student's eligibility for participation in extra/cocurricular activities when a student's poor citizenship is serious enough to warrant loss of this privilege.

Students receiving one or more "U's" in conduct in any one grading period from a single teacher will still be eligible.

Students receiving "U's" in conduct in any one grading period from a second teacher will have the potential for one probationary eligibility period as determined by the school administrator.

Students receiving "U's" in conduct in any one grading period from three or more teachers are ineligible and not entitled to probationary consideration.

Upon receipt of unsatisfactory marks ("U") from more than one teacher in conduct, the student will be declared ineligible for the next schoolwide grading period unless placed on probation by the Executive Director following a student/parent contact.

Probation

Aappeal to the Board for a probationary grading period applies to grade-point average effort and conduct, excluding course enrollment (must maintain five 5-unit courses).

Only one probationary period per student per school year is allowed. Any student placed on probation for any grading period will be ineligible without additional probationary option during that year if ineligible for any reason during a second grading period of that year.

No student may be granted a period of probation or exempted in any way from the minimal CIF standard of passing in four classes.

Activities Exempt from Eligibility Standards

A cocurricular program that has as its primary goal the improvement of academic or educational achievements of students is not subject to these eligibility requirements. Programs in choral music, instrumental music, ensemble, drama, forensics, journalism, dance, art, and agriculture are not subject to these requirements.

Time Constraints

No extracurricular student activities, practices, or rehearsals shall be scheduled on Sunday. No mass school activities shall be scheduled on school nights; small group meetings or events scheduled for school nights shall be dismissed early in the evening. School activities scheduled for Friday or Saturday nights shall terminate not later than 12:00 midnight, or earlier if the legal hour established through city ordinance is earlier. This shall not apply to post-prom parties organized by parents for members of the senior class. Other exceptions may be approved by the Executive Director or designee.

Club Sport Activities

1. Club sport activities are organized separate from the school for the purpose of providing athletic activities and competition for students.

2. The school becomes a cooperative agency attempting to put forward a positive spirit of assisting with an attempt to make a club sport activity successful.

3. The Executive Director or designee will be responsible for orientation and follow-up communication with club sport coaches.

4. The coaches of club sport activities will be considered School volunteers and will be so designated in writing. The coaches must also be certified and approved by the Board. Coaches may be selected by the Executive Director. The school retains the authority to terminate the services of any club sport coach as required.

5. Funds may be raised for these activities and will be deposited through the ASB Trust Account established for the activity. Fund-raisers must be approved by existing school policies. Students who are unable to generate the necessary funds due to hardship shall not be excluded from participation in the activity. ASB funds are generated from students and are allocated by designated students under the supervision of their ASB adviser. Neither the school operating budget nor the school general fund will be obligated to assume any cost for transportation, officials, or equipment of club sport activities.

6. Neither the school operating budget nor the school general fund will assume any responsibility for the funding of a coaching stipend. If there is other payment to the coach, then it must conform to school procedure and not exceed established school stipends.

7. No student shall participate in club sport activities until the following conditions have been met:

a. Clearance Card - to include:

(1) Parent permission

(2) Census information

(3) Medical release

*b. Physical Examination Form

*c. Insurance Forms (School Insurance Plan or Insurance Waiver form)

 d. Informed Consent (warning statement)

*e. ASB Card

*No student shall be prohibited from participating because of inability to pay fees associated with b, c, and e above.

8. Participation in club sport activities is contingent upon students meeting CIF and School eligibility requirements. The coach will be responsible for ensuring eligibility of participants and the schools will make available its ineligibility list to the coach.

9. The Board-approved club sport coach will be responsible for student supervision. Additional supervision may be assigned as required.

10. First priority for facilities will be given to school activities as determined by the Executive Director. Outside agencies may utilize facilities when not in use by school activities. The local school will assume responsibility for preparation of facilities.

11. Keys will be made available to coaches of club sport activities in order for students to use existing locker rooms. Other keys will be issued at the discretion of the local school administration.

12. Club sport activities may award local school letters if funded by their own ASB trust account.

13. Club sport activities recognized by CIF may compete according to regulations provided by the San Diego Section CIF Green Book. Participants in CIF play-offs must meet all prerequisites as prescribed in the Green Book.

School Payment for Individual Services

Schools desirous of providing payment for services rendered for extracurricular activities, beyond the base allocation provided for stipends as established within the contractual agreement, may do so under one or more of the following conditions:

1. The student participants in an activity have been attracted in greater numbers than originally anticipated.

2. The school chooses to maintain a "no cut" policy assuring its participants of the opportunity to remain in the program and benefit from the instruction provided.

3. The leadership of the school wishes to provide greater individualized instruction in extracurricular/cocurricular programs as a service to its students.

Schools choosing the above course of action shall comply with the following guidelines:

1. The decision for paying instructional personnel beyond the allocated stipend positions rests with the local site Executive Director.

2. A written plan prepared by the person in charge of the activity must be presented to the site Executive Director for approval prior to the payment of any funds.

3. The Executive Director shall approve in advance any fund-raising activity to be conducted to generate revenues which funds, or a portion thereof, shall be used to pay personnel.

4. Revenues received from fund-raising activities shall be deposited with the finance clerk at the school and a trust account shall be opened for that fund-raising activity.

5. The payment of individuals from school funds for services rendered beyond the existing extracurricular stipends are as follows:

a. These employees will be hired as after-school supervision aides.

b. These employees will be processed through Payroll as regular School employees.

c. A local school budget transfer action is required from the appropriate ASB trust account to the appropriate Human Resources account.

d. No payment shall exceed the existing stipend structure for the appropriate activity as displayed within the existing contract.

6. Paid and nonpaid volunteers beyond the base allocation shall meet the certification qualifications of coaches as provided in Board policy and administrative regulations.

7. A volunteer form must be submitted to Human Resources Division in advance of any voluntary nonpaid coaching involvement in order to ensure liability and Workers' Compensation coverage for both the School and the volunteer.

8. NO funds shall be used to improve existing negotiated coaching stipends.

9. The School has no jurisdiction over the disposition of stipends once paid to a qualified employee for services rendered.

10. Nothing stated in these guidelines will preclude the continued use of nonpaid volunteers in extracurricular and cocurricular programs.

11. Activities which are not sponsored and regulated by the School shall not be funded from ASB and/or School accounts. Sponsoring agencies and/or individual sponsors will be required to arrange for the use of facilities under provisions of the Civic Center Act.

12. Athletic activities must adhere to CIF Regulation 507 of the CIF Green Book, stated as follows:

"A coach shall not be reimbursed for coaching services from any source other than school funds without the approval of the school's Governing Board, nor be subject to any bonus arrangement dependent upon the success of the school's team."

 

Clubs and Organizations Policy 

The Board believes that curriculum-related and noncurriculum-related organizations and clubs have an important place in the school setting. Besides extending and reinforcing the instructional program, such groups can give students practice in democratic self-government and provide wholesome social and recreational activities. Student organizations also serve to honor outstanding student achievement and to enhance school spirit and students' sense of belonging.

All clubs and organizations must meet the rules and regulations established by the Board, the Executive Director, and the Associated Student Body (ASB) constitution and bylaws to receive official school recognition. School-sponsored clubs and organizations must file a copy of their charter, constitution, statement of purpose or other desired information with the Governing Board and ASB. This material must have the approval of the Executive Director. The club will be designated as an official school club only when a faculty adviser is named to work with the group. The club's adviser must be approved by the Executive Director.

Membership in clubs and organizations must be limited to students enrolled in the school where the club has received recognition. Membership must be open to all students who meet the qualifications and standards set forth in the club charter. Membership in school clubs and organizations shall not be determined on the basis of race or religious creed, or restricted in violation of current federal or state discrimination laws.

Groups discussing controversial issues must present both sides of the issue and keep the membership open to all segments of the school population. Because the school curricular program is broad in scope, the Executive Director must make sure that school clubs present a balanced program and are a true extension of the curriculum.

Meetings and Activities

1. The time and place of all club activities must be approved by the faculty adviser.

2. Clubs holding evening meetings must file a regular meeting schedule with school authorities.

3. Meetings and/or activities held on a school night must end by 9:00 p.m.

4. Initiations (other than those which are school-sponsored), hazing in any form, or other activities which do not complement or which interfere with any part of the instructional program are prohibited.

(We are currently developing a detailed list of what constitutes "hazing." Once we have the list, we will post it here.)

5. No club or organization shall engage in any social activity without the approval of the faculty adviser. A faculty adviser, or other authorized person, must be present at all club-sponsored functions.

Responsibilities of Faculty Adviser and/or the Club Sport Coach

It shall be the responsibility of the faculty adviser and/or the club sport coach to see that:

1. The club charter or statement of purpose, as approved by the school administration and the Associated Student Body, are kept on file in the school office. (Location to be designated by the Executive Director.)

2. Accurate membership lists are submitted to the school office as requested.

3. All members of the club or organization are informed of school rules and regulations regarding club membership.

4. Parents/guardians are informed as to all evening meetings and activities (including dates, times, and meeting places).

5. Administrative approval is obtained for all club activities.

6. No discrimination, hazing, or other undesirable type of activity is allowed as part of any program activity.

7. All meetings and activities sponsored by the group are supervised. When an alternate supervisor is needed, it shall be the adviser's responsibility to see that administrative approval has been given.