PROFESSIONALISM, ITS NOT THE JOB YOU DO, ITS HOW YOU DO THE JOB!

EMPLOYEE MANUAL
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INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Mission ................................................................................................................................................................................5 Belief Statements ................................................................................................................................................................5 Governance and Management .............................................................................................................................................5 Board of Director Meetings .................................................................................................................................................5 Governing Documents .........................................................................................................................................................5 Leadership ...........................................................................................................................................................................5 Educational Approach ..........................................................................................................................................................6 Fundamental Approach .......................................................................................................................................................6 Curriculum Guidelines .........................................................................................................................................................6 EMPLOYMENT GUIDELINES .................................................................................................................................................................................. 7 Employment Agreements ....................................................................................................................................................7 No Employee or Agency Relationship ..................................................................................................................................7 Position Descriptions ...........................................................................................................................................................7 Teacher Licensure ................................................................................................................................................................8 Personnel Records ...............................................................................................................................................................8 Expectations and Performance Standards............................................................................................................................8 GUIDELINES FOR PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR ................................................................................................................................................ 8 Professional Attributes: ........................................................................................................................................................ 8 Relationship to Others: ......................................................................................................................................................... 8 CULTURAL SENSITIVITY: STUDENTS, STAFF, PARENTS ............................................................................................................................. 9 Formal Performance Evaluations: ...................................................................................................................................... 10 Job Performance Standards: .............................................................................................................................................. 10 Acceptable Standards of Conduct: ..................................................................................................................................... 10 Professional Development ................................................................................................................................................. 10 Drug-Free Workplace ......................................................................................................................................................... 10 Applicability ....................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Prohibited Behavior ........................................................................................................................................................... 11 Internet Acceptable Use .................................................................................................................................................... 11 Internet Use: ....................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Computer Use:.................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Software: ............................................................................................................................................................................ 11 Web site access: ................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Security Practices: .............................................................................................................................................................. 12 Disclaimers: ........................................................................................................................................................................ 12 Internet Social Networking ................................................................................................................................................ 12 Nondiscrimination/Harassment ......................................................................................................................................... 12 Sexual Harassment ............................................................................................................................................................. 12 Equal Opportunity Policy .................................................................................................................................................... 13 Filing of Complaint for Harassment or Equal Opportunity ................................................................................................. 13 Staff Grievance .................................................................................................................................................................. 13 Provisions: .......................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Procedure: .......................................................................................................................................................................... 14 FLOWCHART OF EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE ....................................................................................................... 15 Public Complaints / Grievance Policy ................................................................................................................................. 15 Provisions ........................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Workplace Safety............................................................................................................................................................... 17 End of Year Inventory and Duty ......................................................................................................................................... 17 Telephone and Cell Phone Usage ....................................................................................................................................... 17 Employee Signing In and Out ............................................................................................................................................. 17 Employee Tardiness and Absence ...................................................................................................................................... 17 Illness or Emergency Absences:.......................................................................................................................................... 18 Personal Time Off (PTO) .................................................................................................................................................... 18 2-42

Bereavement ..................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Jury Duty ........................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Staff Absences: .................................................................................................................................................................. 18 Lesson Plans for Substitute Teachers: ................................................................................................................................ 18 Folders for Substitute Teachers: ......................................................................................................................................... 18 Parental Leave ................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Employees Children in the Workplace .............................................................................................................................. 20 Personal Appearance ......................................................................................................................................................... 20 PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE: ...................................................................................................................................................... 20 Exceptions .......................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Workers Compensation Insurance .................................................................................................................................... 20 Group Insurance Plan ........................................................................................................................................................ 21 Retirement Plans ............................................................................................................................................................... 21 Colorado PERA Customer Service: ..................................................................................................................................... 21 PERA 401(k) ........................................................................................................................................................................ 21 Payday ............................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Direct Deposit .................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Garnishments .................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Employment Postings ........................................................................................................................................................ 22 Employment of Relatives ................................................................................................................................................... 22 SCHOOL/BUILDING PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Emergency Closure ............................................................................................................................................................ 23 Emergency Drills ................................................................................................................................................................ 23 Emergency Notification Service ......................................................................................................................................... 23 Crisis Management Plan .................................................................................................................................................... 23 Fire Evacuation Procedures................................................................................................................................................ 23 Emergency Standard Response Protocol ............................................................................................................................ 24 Child Abuse Reporting ....................................................................................................................................................... 25 Voice Mail .......................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Staff Mail Boxes ................................................................................................................................................................. 25 Weekly Staff Meetings ....................................................................................................................................................... 25 Employee Parking .............................................................................................................................................................. 25 Personal Items ................................................................................................................................................................... 25 School Items ...................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Copy and Laminating Machines ......................................................................................................................................... 26 Copyrights ......................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Purchasing ......................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Expense Reporting ............................................................................................................................................................. 26 Purchasing Ordering Supplies.......................................................................................................................................... 26 Dress Down Day Fundraiser ............................................................................................................................................... 27 Friday Wear ....................................................................................................................................................................... 27 School Pictures .................................................................................................................................................................. 27 Custodial or Maintenance Requests .................................................................................................................................. 27 School Calendar ................................................................................................................................................................. 27 School Mascot/Colors ........................................................................................................................................................ 27 Hours of Operation ............................................................................................................................................................ 27 Visitors to the School ......................................................................................................................................................... 27 Volunteers ......................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Student Attendance & Absences........................................................................................................................................ 28 Student Tardies ................................................................................................................................................................. 28 Student Arrival Time .......................................................................................................................................................... 28 Students Leaving School Early ............................................................................................................................................ 29 Student Dismissal Time ...................................................................................................................................................... 29 Student Make-up Work ..................................................................................................................................................... 29 Student Transportation ..................................................................................................................................................... 29 School to Home Communication........................................................................................................................................ 29 3-42

Family Communication ...................................................................................................................................................... 29 Lost & Found...................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Breakfast & Lunch Program ............................................................................................................................................... 30 Cafeteria Rules................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Holiday Observances ......................................................................................................................................................... 30 Birthday Celebrations ........................................................................................................................................................ 30 School Entrance Requirements .......................................................................................................................................... 31 Student Enrollment Policy ................................................................................................................................................. 31 Student Internet Acceptable Use ....................................................................................................................................... 31 Student Class Placement Policy.......................................................................................................................................... 31 Student Withdrawal Policies and Procedures .................................................................................................................... 31 Student Health................................................................................................................................................................... 32 Student Accident Reports ................................................................................................................................................... 32 Administration of Medications at School ........................................................................................................................... 32 Guidelines for When Parents Should Keep Students Home ............................................................................................... 33 Sending Students to the Office .......................................................................................................................................... 33 Important things to try before sending a student to the clinic: ....................................................................................... 33 Common reasons for a student to visit the school office regarding their health: ........................................................... 33 Playground Rules and Guidelines ....................................................................................................................................... 34 Homework ......................................................................................................................................................................... 34 No-Rescue Policy ............................................................................................................................................................... 34 Activities/Field Trip............................................................................................................................................................ 34 Movies / Videos ................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Classroom Animals ............................................................................................................................................................ 35 Bicycles .............................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Toys/Video Games/Electronics .......................................................................................................................................... 35 Closed Campus .................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Visitors & Security ............................................................................................................................................................. 36 Volunteers ......................................................................................................................................................................... 36 Specials Classes.................................................................................................................................................................. 36 Special Education ............................................................................................................................................................... 36 Grade Level Planning ......................................................................................................................................................... 36 Lesson Plans and Weekly Plans & Year-long Plans ............................................................................................................. 36 Student Discipline live above the line .......................................................................................................................... 36 Positive Behavior System ................................................................................................................................................... 36 Classroom Management .................................................................................................................................................... 37 Classroom Environment - Instruction ................................................................................................................................. 38 Classroom Environment Dcor ........................................................................................................................................ 38 Classroom Clean Up ........................................................................................................................................................... 39 Grading Scale ..................................................................................................................................................................... 39 Report Cards/Parent Conferences ..................................................................................................................................... 39 Grade Books ...................................................................................................................................................................... 39 Students Grading Papers FERPA ...................................................................................................................................... 39 Cumulative Files ................................................................................................................................................................ 40 Student Promotion and Retention (K 8) .......................................................................................................................... 40 Attendance Power School ............................................................................................................................................... 40 Tardy/Attendance procedures: .......................................................................................................................................... 40 Hallway passes: ................................................................................................................................................................. 41 5-8 Restroom Procedures: ................................................................................................................................................. 41 Student Behavior Referrals to the Principal ....................................................................................................................... 41 Classroom Emergencies ..................................................................................................................................................... 42 Student Dress Code ........................................................................................................................................................... 42

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INTRODUCTION
This employee manual is for all Community Leadership Academy employees: teachers, support staff, and administrators. Its intent is to provide guidelines for operation. If there is a conflict between the provisions and policies in this manual and those set forth in the terms of a staff members agreement, the terms of the agreement shall prevail. For further questions or clarification, please see your supervisor or administrator. Community Leadership Academy (CLA) is a free, public school chartered by the Charter School Institute, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The school was developed in 2003 under the Charter School Act (C.R.S. 22-30.5-101) of the 1993 Colorado State Legislature. This act permits a school district or the Institute to contract with individuals and organizations for the operation of a school within the school district. CLA opened in 2005 with 344 students in Kindergarten through Grade 8. Now in its 7th year of operation, the school serves over 500 students.

MISSION
The mission of Community Leadership Academy is to provide a college preparatory education to the economically and ethnically diverse students in Commerce City, Kindergarten through eighth grades. The mission of the school is to be provided through a rigorous and creative educational curriculum in an atmosphere which promotes a life-long love of learning, academic excellence, character development, civic leadership, community involvement, appreciation of arts and cultural diversity. The mission of Community Leadership Academy is provided in a clean, safe, healthy and vibrant educational environment where all students are expected to achieve their full potential.

BELIEF STATEMENTS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Education is a craft and academic excellence toward student achievement is our highest goal. Learning is a shared process, an active exchange between all members of the CLA community. Understanding and appreciating the importance of diversity is foundational to our school environment. Individual learning differences must be cultivated to achieve mastery of CLA's challenging curriculum. Leadership, Respect, Self-Discipline, Compassion and Integrity are behavioral expectations emphasized in our school community to achieve academic excellence and life-long success.

GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Community Leadership Academy is governed by a Board of Directors that oversees the compliance of the charter and establishes governance policies. The Executive Director and Principal(s) comprise the core Administrative Team. They implement strategic plans for the school and oversee the daily operations of the school.

BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETINGS

Board meetings are held the second (2nd) Tuesday of each month. Regular meetings begin at 5:30 p.m. Staff are encouraged to attend at least one Board meeting each year.

GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
The Board is given direction through the charter application, charter contract, articles of incorporation, and the bylaws. Governing documents are public and available for review in the main office.

LEADERSHIP
Community Leadership Academys core Administrative Team is committed to empowering teachers and support personnel to take leadership roles. The Administration welcomes the involvement of all members of CLA's community to serve on committees, teams, and groups which work throughout the year to make recommendations for improving what we do. These improvements include areas such as employee evaluations, teacher assessments, compensation, morale, communications, technology, customer or parent involvement public relations. Opportunities also arise for grant writing or securing outside support that will improve Community Leadership Academys programs. Community Leadership Academys core Administrative Team stands on our school wide premises of

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Hope - We believe that every child and member of the CLA community is expected to achieve their full potential and has a destiny to improve our world. Learning - We believe in the craft of education; providing a rigorous and creative curriculum in an atmosphere of academic excellence which promotes a life-long love for learning; so when people choose to place their children in our hands we are committed as practitioners to ensure they are in the very best of hands. Possibilities - We believe in providing college preparatory education; our students and staff are not limited by race, socioeconomic background, ethnicity or prior educational performance. Previous challenges are doorways to creativity and innovation; what may appear to have been liabilities are now opportunities to discover possibilities. Collaboration - We believe the cultivation if individual gifts and talents changes things; the collaboration of those gifts and talents can change everything. We encourage interest at all levels of the CLA community and promote involvement in the larger community in which we live. Leadership - We believe CLA is a hands-on environment for character development, civic leadership, appreciation or the arts and cultural diversity, equipping the pioneers, explorers, discoverers, and leaders of the twenty-first century.

EDUCATIONAL APPROACH
(K-6) Primary & Intermediate School Community Leadership Academy begins building a firm academic foundation by using the Core Knowledge Sequence curriculum which provides students with a rich and broad knowledge base. Core Knowledge is taught by using curriculum delivery instruments such as Shurley English, RIGGS phonics, spelling, and handwriting, Power Writing and 6+1 Traits Writing, Reading Street, and Real Math. Core Knowledge curriculum also integrates art, computer technology, music, and physical education. Extracurricular activities include student government, community service, and sports clubs. (7-8) Middle School Community Leadership Academy provides a middle school environment that fosters building relationships and individual academic success. The curriculum remains Core Knowledge and is organized to spiral through the grade levels, becoming more sophisticated and detailed in each successive grade. It is taught by using curriculum delivery instruments such as Shurley English, Power Writing, and Saxon Math. The Core Knowledge curriculum also integrates art, computer technology, music, and physical education. Extracurricular activities include student government, community service, and sports. Our middle school program is designed to prepare students through college preparatory educational programs.

FUNDAMENTAL APPROACH
In addition to the Core Knowledge Sequence, Community Leadership Academy emphasizes the teaching of basic skills with a traditional and conventional approach in an academically oriented program with Performance Based Instruction grouping occurring in reading and mathematics. Emphasis is placed upon the basic foundations necessary for an academically sound education. Students are required to conduct themselves within our Character Trait model for student behavior. Strict guidelines and order are maintained to promote an optimal learning environment for all students. Students are expected to respect authority, accept responsibility, respect the rights of others, take care of their own property, and be careful with the property of others. No student will be allowed to stop the teacher from teaching or a learner from learning.

CURRICULUM GUIDELINES

Community Leadership Academy encourages and will provide growth in basic skills and through the use of the Core Knowledge Sequence enable students to be productive citizens. The schools curriculum is aligned with Colorado State Model Content Standards to ensure success in meeting State goals. 6-42

Community Leadership Academy uses curriculum, methods, and materials that stress the following: Subject Reading and Language Arts Curriculum/Emphasis Reading Street reading program focuses on the five components of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, reading fluency, including oral reading skills, vocabulary development, reading comprehension strategies while integrating language arts skills Shurley English focusing on grammar and writing RIGGs focuses on phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling and handwriting Power Writing focus on the student writing process Poetry, literature and sayings and phrases are specified in the Core Knowledge Sequence Mathematics Spelling Science Languages Music, Physical Education, and Art The Real Math and Saxon Math programs emphasize problem-solving, application, and computational skills. Spelling is delivered in K through RIGGS and in 1-6 it is covered in Reading Street A hands on approach, as well as laboratory based investigation, covers Core Knowledge indicators and Colorado Science Content Standards Community Leadership Academy is an English immersion school. English is the only language spoken during instruction time. Instruction in these areas is based on the Core Knowledge curriculum and Colorado State Standards

EMPLOYMENT GUIDELINES
This section covers Community Leadership Academys employment guidelines. All employees are expected to understand and abide by these guidelines. Lack of awareness of these guidelines is not an acceptable reason for non-compliance.

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
A Community Leadership Academy employee is an at-will employee for an indefinite term. Either the employee or Community Leadership Academy may terminate the agreement at any time with or without cause, for any reason, by providing written notice to the other at the time of termination or within a reasonable time thereafter, regardless of any statements, representations, procedures, or policies that may be promulgated by Community Leadership Academy. Community Leadership Academy may terminate the employment of an employee for cause, including without limitation, for declining enrollment or for financial exigencies. Notwithstanding the foregoing, all employees agree to use his/her best efforts to provide Community Leadership Academy with at least ten (10) school days prior notice before terminating employment. If an employee leaves Community Leadership Academy for any reason, he/she must complete the checkout process with your principal or supervisor and the HR Office, and schedule a time for pickup of any personal items.

NO EMPLOYEE OR AGENCY RELATIONSHIP

Neither Community Leadership Academy nor its employees, agents, or contractors are employees or agents of Adams County School District 14 or the Institute for any purpose whatsoever; and neither are the District or Institute or its employees, agents, or contractors, employees or agents of the Community Leadership Academy.

POSITION DESCRIPTIONS
A position description summarizes your duties and responsibilities and gives you important information about your job. Please read and study your position description carefully and discuss it with the Executive Director or Principals if you have any questions. Community Leadership Academy reserves the right to revise and update your position description from time to time, as it deems necessary and appropriate.

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TEACHER LICENSURE
Community Leadership Academy uses licensed teachers for components of its educational program. An individual holding an emergency license issued by CDE shall be considered a licensed teacher provided that such teacher is enrolled and making satisfactory progress in an alternative licensure program which meets the requirements of state law.

PERSONNEL RECORDS
Community Leadership Academy must always have current information for all staff. Please let the secretary and Business Office know immediately if you change your name, address, phone number, marital status, etc. If for some reason you need to change your name or social security number, you will be asked to provide original documentation authorizing the change. Upon written request to the Executive Director, you will be allowed to review any personnel records that have been used to determine your qualifications for employment, promotion, compensation, termination, or other disciplinary action.

EXPECTATIONS AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

All Community Leadership Academy positions include the following expectation: Maintain a professional and positive attitude toward students, parents, teachers, supervisors, and other staff at all times. This includes: maintaining confidentiality regarding issues with students, staff and the school; speaking respectfully to others about students, staff or the school; managing conflict only with those directly involved, bringing in administration if necessary; immediately reporting any knowledge of potential illegal or unethical behavior by staff or students directly to administration; and refusing to engage in gossip and the circulation of rumors. Community Leadership Academy employees are responsible for understanding and adhering to basic expectations and performance standards. Violations will not be tolerated.

GUIDELINES FOR PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR

Community Leadership Academy regards the following as guidelines for professional behavior. All employees are expected to show professional behavior in their interactions with others in the CLA community. This includes members of the faculty and administration, board of directors, students, parents, and support staff.

PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES:
Displaying honesty and integrity Never misrepresents or falsifies information and/or actions (i.e. cheating, lying). Does not engage in other unethical behavior. Showing respect for students dignity and rights Makes appropriate attempts to establish rapport with students and/or their families. Shows sensitivity to the students or families feelings, needs, or wishes. Demonstrates appropriate empathy. Shows respect for student autonomy. Maintains confidentiality of student information. Maintaining a professional demeanor Maintains a professional demeanor even when stressed: not verbally hostile, abusive, dismissive or inappropriately angry. Never expresses anger physically. Accepts professionally accepted boundaries for student relationships. Never uses his or her professional position to engage in romantic or sexual relationships with students or members of their families; never misuses professional position for personal gain. Conforms to policies governing behavior such as sexual harassment, consensual amorous relationships, hazing, use of alcohol, and any other existing policy of the school. Is not arrogant or insolent. Appearance, dress, professional behavior follow generally accepted professional norms. Recognizing limits and when to seek help Appears aware of own inadequacies and correctly estimates own abilities or knowledge. Recognizes own limits and when to seek help. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHERS: Responds to supervision 8-42

 Accepts and incorporates feedback in a non-resistant and non-defensive manner. Accepts responsibility for failure and errors. Demonstrating dependability and appropriate initiative Completes tasks in a timely fashion (papers, phone calls, appointments, student notes, reading checklists). Does not need reminders about responsibilities to students and to other staff members in order to complete them. Appropriately available for professional responsibilities (i.e. required activities, available for in-services, department meetings, etc.). Takes on appropriate responsibilities willingly (not resistant or defensive). Takes on appropriate student activities. Interacting with other members of the team Communicates with other members of the team in a timely manner. Shows sensitivity to the needs, feelings and wishes of team members. Relates and cooperates well with members of the team. Respecting others and engaging in responsible behaviors: Shows up on time and in the appointed place for duty assignments. Responds to others requests in a timely manner. Reads and answers e-mails in a timely manner. Meets professional obligations by: o Not making doctor and non-school related appointments on Professional Development or Work Days. o Refraining from making side comments, grading papers, talking, reading, etc. during in-service presentations or staff meetings. o Discussing your ideas with colleagues openly and honestly. o Thinking K-8 not just in terms of your grade level. o Taking the whole organization into consideration before making a statement or recommendation. o Not feeding the rumor mill with gossip based upon half-truths and hearsay (keeps in mind that someday he/she may be the subject of gossip). o Confronts others appropriately in problem situations. o Uses proper procedures and the Administrative Team to resolve problems when needed. Cultural Sensitivity: Students, Staff, Parents 1. Respecting Differences: Recognize that all people have numerous similarities and differences. This may be an elementary concept, but it is an important one. People who fail to grasp this concept can hold prejudices simply because other people look different from them, or because another person's attitudes, values, and lifestyles are unfamiliar. 2. Stereotyping: A stereotype is a preconceived judgment about an entire group of people, where all are believed to have the same characteristics. A stereotype often clouds your judgment, preventing you from seeing others as a person with individual characteristics. For example, if a person is perceived as being an alcoholic, one might believe he or she is less trustworthy, less ambitious, or good for nothing. Stereotyping is also dangerous because it often leads to prejudice. Prejudice is an attitude, feeling, or pre-judgment that often results in negative action against members of a group. To help debunk the merit of stereotypes, an analogy of a beach often clears things up. Think of the number of grains of sand on a beach. There are billions of grains. Stereotypes may have a grain of truth to them, but one grain is nothing compared to the billions of grains of sand that make up a beach. The bottom line is that all stereotypes are negative, even if they have a positive connotation. 3. Discrimination Discrimination is unfair treatment of a person or group on the basis of prejudice. Most people acknowledge that there are certain populations of people who have been historically discriminated against. What most people fail to recognize is that every person, at one point in their life, has been discriminated against in one way or another. Even those in the majority have, at one time or another, experienced feelings of being different from others. Being perceived as different is a constant in the lives of racial and ethnic minorities, and it may account for misunderstood behavior brought on by these emotions. Above Adapted from: http://www.momentummedia.com/articles/tc/tc1106/sensitivity.htm 9-42

*Please remember that comments you make may be offensive to others, even if you were not speaking with malicious intent or towards that person.

FORMAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS:

The Principal/Supervisor is responsible for reviewing your performance. You will receive a formal performance evaluation annually, usually in late April or early May, and/or on an as needed basis. Teaching staff who will be invited to return to CLA the next academic year will be issued an Intent to Re-Hire statement by June 1. The purpose of the performance evaluation is to: Enhance the implementation of programs of curriculum. Serve as one measurement of the professional growth and development of personnel. Written performance evaluations may include commendation for good work as well as specific recommendations for improvement. You will have the opportunity to discuss your performance evaluation with your direct supervisor and to ask questions and clarify points. Community Leadership Academy evaluates performance through a professional context consisting of a variety of indicators, including, but not limited to: student academic progress, academic subject assessments, MAP scores, seatwork, lesson planning, classroom management, team work, collaboration, curriculum binders, pacing, attitude, attendance, professional conduct, response to coaching, informal observations, compliance with professional deadlines and time frames, formal observations, professional development progress, response to administrative directives, fit for vision, mission, and future of CLA.

JOB PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:

Each position has minimal standards of performance. Employees can be disciplined, up to and including termination, for poor job performance, as determined by your supervisor. Some examples of poor job performance are as follows: Below average work quality or quantity. Poor attitude, including rudeness, or lack of cooperation. Excessive absenteeism, tardiness, or abuse of break privileges. Failure to follow instructions or school policies and procedures.

ACCEPTABLE STANDARDS OF CONDUCT:

Employees may also be disciplined, up to and including termination, for misconduct. Some examples of misconduct follow: Insubordination. Abuse, misuse, theft, or the unauthorized possession or removal of school property or the personal property of others. Falsifying or making a material omission on Community Leadership Academy records, reports, or other documents, including payroll, personnel, and employment records. Divulging confidential school information to unauthorized persons. Disorderly conduct on school property, including fighting or attempted bodily injury, or the use of profane, abusive, or threatening language toward others or possession of a weapon. Violation of any law adversely affecting the school, or conviction in court of any crime which may cause the employee to be regarded as unsuitable for continued employment. Violation of the schools alcohol, drugs, and controlled substances policy. Violation of the schools harassment or equal employment policies. Misuse of the Internet including viewing inappropriate sites on school computers and posting personal sites which have a negative impact on your professional image (e.g. a website glorifying sex, alcohol, and/or drugs).

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
If you would like to attend a seminar, conference or class you must first seek approval from your Principal or Supervisor. Please fill out a Request for Funds form and attach event information and an Absence Request form (if applicable) to it when you submit it to your principal or supervisor.

DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE
The use, sale, transfer, possession, or being at work after the apparent use of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances when on-duty or off-duty on Community Leadership Academy property or in school vehicles is prohibited. In addition, off-duty conduct that may 10-42

adversely affect the reputation or interests of the school is prohibited. This includes inappropriate use of the internet such as developing a website, blog, or personal page which is counter to the acceptable norms of behavior for a Community Leadership Academy employee (e.g. posting pictures and text which glorify sex, drugs, and alcohol). Applicability Our Drug-Free Workplace Policy is intended to apply whenever anyone is conducting business on behalf of CLA. Therefore, this policy applies during all working hours, while on school premises, and whenever representing Community Leadership Academy or conducting school business.

PROHIBITED BEHAVIOR
It is a violation of our Drug-Free Workplace Policy to make, use, possess, sell, trade, and/or offer for sale alcohol, illegal drugs or intoxicants. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs are not prohibited when taken in standard dosage and/or according to a physician's prescription. Any employee taking prescribed or over-the-counter medications will be responsible for consulting the prescribing physician and/or pharmacist to ascertain whether the medication may interfere with safe performance of his/her job. If the use of a medication could compromise the safety of the employee, fellow employees or the public, it is the employee's responsibility to use appropriate personnel procedures (e.g., use PTO, request leave, request change of duty, notify supervisor) to avoid unsafe workplace practices. The illegal or unauthorized use of prescription drugs is prohibited. It is a violation of our Drug-Free Workplace Policy to intentionally misuse and/or abuse prescription medications. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken if job performance deterioration and/or other accidents occur.

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE

It is the intent of Community Leadership Academy to provide Internet, server access and e-mail services to its staff to assist in education, curriculum planning and classroom enhancement. While the staff use these computers on a daily basis it must be remembered that these computers are the property of Community Leadership Academy Charter School and must be used appropriately. The following activities are not permitted on Community Leadership Academys electronic resources: INTERNET USE: Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks; vandalizing, damaging or disabling the property of another person or organization; debilitating or disabling computers, systems or networks through the intentional mis - or overuse of electronic distribution or storage space, e.g. downloading audio or video files not used in the classroom, or the spreading of computer "viruses" through the inappropriate use of files, diskettes or USB devices. Accessing, uploading, downloading, transmitting or displaying or distributing obscene or sexually explicit material; transmitting obscene, abusive, sexually explicit language. Violence, terrorist activities, or racial separatism. Violating copyright, or otherwise using another person's intellectual property without his or her prior approval or proper citation; using another person's passwords; trespassing in another person's folders, work or files. Violating local, state or federal statute. Searching/applying for other employment.

COMPUTER USE: Loading/using personal software, as this can lead to licensing issues. Copying MP3s or software without administrative permission. Downloading or installing screensavers or wallpaper from the Internet or CD without administrative approval.

SOFTWARE: While its preferred that staff use only approved software, there is freeware and shareware available on the Internet. If you would like to use non-approved software, please contact administration for testing and approval before down loading or installing. WEB SITE ACCESS: Community Leadership Academy uses hardware to monitor and restrict Internet access. Employees correspondence on E-mail may be a public record under the public records law and may be subject to public inspection. (C.R.S. 24-72-204.5) While staff will be 11-42

granted more access than students some sites may still be restricted. If you need access to a site, submit a request to administration and they will review your request and notify you of a decision. SECURITY PRACTICES: Keep your passwords absolutely secret. This ensures each user that no one else can access his/her computer and network resources by using another persons password. Lock computers when stepping away from a workstation. The users programs will remain open, but the operating system remains locked until the user who locked the workstation unlocks it by entering a valid password. A computer may be locked when the screen saver starts and will require a password to unlock. Log off computers when leaving workstation. When a user logs off the system, all of the users open files are closed. Windows remains running, so that another user can log on. If you feel that your password has been compromised contact the office. This will limit your liability. Your user name will be your first initial . and last name. (i.e. John.Smith)

DISCLAIMERS: Community Leadership Academy makes no warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied, for the provided access. Community Leadership Academy and its staff are not responsible for any damages incurred, including, but not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays or interruption of service; the loss of data stored on Community Leadership Academy resources, personal property used to access Community Leadership Academy resources; the accuracy, nature, or quality of information stored on Community Leadership Academy resources or gathered through corporation-provided access; unauthorized financial obligations incurred through Community Leadership Academy provided access. All provisions of this policy are subordinate to local, state and federal statute.

INTERNET SOCIAL NETWORKING

It is CLAs expectation that staff use technology appropriately and are mindful of information that they put on social networking sites, including Facebook and MySpace. Staff Profiles Staff need to be aware that what they do in their private lives is open to a level of scrutiny that some jobs may not have. Discretion should be taken when posting private information or pictures/language that could be considered inappropriate for someone that works in a school. For example, pictures with people flashing signs that may be considered by some to be gang affiliated. Information about students or things going on in the school may also be subject to privacy laws. Student Contact Under no circumstances should staff members be friends or contacts of students on social networking sites. Staff should also make their profiles private so as not to invite possible student communication regarding their information. During School Hours CLA does not allow for the use of social networking sites during school hours. Please remember that the computers are the property of Community Leadership Academy and must be used appropriately. Please see the Employee Manual for Internet Acceptable Use policies. Also, staff planning times are to be used for planning, not to be updating social network sites, even from personal internet devices.

NONDISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT
SEXUAL HARASSMENT Community Leadership Academy neither tolerates nor condones the existence of a hostile or offensive work environment in which sexual harassment and intimidation are present. Community Leadership Academy is committed to ensuring that the work environment is free of sexual harassment and other unlawful discriminatory practices. Administrative Responsibility Community Leadership Academys administration shall take reasonable measures to ensure that the school environment is free of sexual harassment. It shall do so by encouraging reporting of any sexual harassment, investigating any complaints of sexual harassment, and applying appropriate discipline for any instances of sexual harassment. Employee/Student Responsibility

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Employees and students of the school are responsible to report allegations of sexual harassment, and to cooperate with any investigation or proceeding conducted by Community Leadership Academy in response to the filing of such allegations. No Retaliation There shall be no retaliation against any person who has, in good faith, filed a sexual harassment grievance, assisted in the filing of such a grievance, or served as a witness or representative of the grievant.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY POLICY It is the policy of Community Leadership Academy to provide equal opportunity under the law with respect to all programs, activities and employment, and to prohibit discrimination on any basis protected by law, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law. Community Leadership Academy is committed to full compliance with the Federal immigration laws and will not knowingly hire or continue to employ anyone who does not have the legal right to work in the United States. A grievance must be filed within 30 days of the occurrence of the alleged violation of this Equal Opportunity Policy. FILING OF COMPLAINT FOR HARASSMENT OR EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Complaints by or on behalf of employees should be filed with a Principal, the Executive Director, or the HR Manager. Complaints are to be filed in writing and shall provide the following information: name and address of the grievant(s); nature of alleged violation; names of persons responsible for the alleged violation (where known) and any background information the grievant believes to be relevant (e.g. names or groups of other persons affected by the violation, etc.). The complainant may request assistance from the HR Manager, Administrator, or any other group or organization to assist in the preparation of the form or in the filing of the complaint. An investigation/hearing conducted by the administration team or designee will follow within four (4) school days after receipt of the written complaint. If the complaint involves a member of the administration team, that member will be dismissed from the investigation team. All actions deemed to be of a criminal nature will be reported to the appropriate authorities. Violation of either the Harassment policy or the Equal Opportunity policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including immediate termination. The investigation team will provide all parties in interest with the written answer to the grievance within four (4) school days after the investigation/hearing. Such answer shall include the reasons upon which the decision was based. If the grievant is not satisfied with the disposition of his/her grievance or if no decision has been rendered within ten (10) school days after filing the grievance, then the grievance may be referred, within ten (10) school days thereafter, to Community Leadership Academy Board of Directors. Community Leadership Academy Board shall have up to twenty (20) calendar days to arrange for and hold a hearing with the parties in interest. Following the hearing, the Board President shall have four (4) calendar days to provide his/her written decision to the interested parties. In addition to, or as an alternative to, filing a harassment complaint pursuant to this policy, a person may file a harassment complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights or the Colorado Civil Rights Commission at the addresses below. Office for Civil Rights 1560 Broadway, Suite 1050 Denver, CO 80202 Email: OCR_Denver@ed.gov

STAFF GRIEVANCE
Community Leadership Academy supports voluntary resolution of work-related conflicts, problems, and concerns. Because it is CLAs firm belief that most of these issues can be handled quickly and appropriately at the root level, the first step of the grievance process is informal: employees are asked to address the problem orally with the person who may have caused the grievance. If the matter is not able to be resolved informally or the employee feels that there is a basis for a formal complaint that they do not feel comfortable handling informally, (ie. harassment, discrimination), the formal process may begin. When an employee feels that they have basis for a formal complaint, they are encouraged to raise their concerns with the appropriate supervisor (principal) within 7 school days of the alleged incident. PROVISIONS: A. Nothing contained herein shall be construed so as to limit in any way the ability of, or authority for, CLA and the grievant to resolve any grievance informally. B. This grievance procedure shall take precedence over any other formal grievance procedure. 13-42

C. Failure to file or pursue a grievance or appeal, at any level, in a timely fashion as specified herein bars any further proceedings to that grievance. D. Grievances must be submitted on CLAs grievance form (see Appendix) E. No complaint shall be recognized by the Principal or supervisor unless it shall have been presented within 7 school days after the employee knew, or should have known of the act on which the complaint is based. If not so presented, the complaint shall be considered waived. PROCEDURE: 1. Within 3 school days of the complaint being received, the Principal must meet with the Complainant and fill out the Supervisor Grievance Response form. The Complainant may bring a representative to this meeting. In addition, upon receipt of the Employee Grievance Form, the Principal shall conduct an investigation and shall complete a written decision to be shared with the Complainant within 7 school days. If the employee continues to be dissatisfied with the decision of the Principal, the employee must request that the investigation results be reviewed by the Executive Director then it may be submitted to the CLA board. Such request must be submitted within 5 school days of receipt of the written decision of the Principal. The board shall hold a hearing no later than its next regularly scheduled meeting provided the request was received at least 5 school days prior to such meeting. The names of the employees witnesses must be made available to the Executive Director/President of the Board within 3 school days in advance of the meeting. Any hearing will be held in closed session unless mutually agreed to be open to the public. The Board shall submit a decision no later than its next regularly scheduled meeting subsequent to the meeting at which the hearing was held. The decision of the Board shall be final.

2.

3.

4.

5. 6.

7.

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FLOWCHART OF EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

Employee handles informally

If necessary to file formal grievance, employee must submit formal grievance form to the Principal within 7 school days of incident

Within 3 school days of receipt of grievance form, Principal must meet with complainant and their representative and fill out Supervisor Response to Grievance Form

Within 7 school days of complaint, Principal will have done an investigation and given a written report/decision to the Complainant

If the employee does not feel that the written decision of the Principal adequately solves their complaint, they may submit the complaint to the Executive Director within 5 days of receiving the written decision of the Principal.

Within 5 school days of submittal to the Executive Director, he/she will have done an investigation and given a written report/decision to the Complainant

If the employee does not feel that the written decision of the Executive Director adequately solves their complaint, they may appeal for a Board Hearing within 5 school days of receiving the written decision by using the Employee Request for Board Hearing

The Board will hear the complaint at their next regularly scheduled board meeting if they receive the complaint within 5 school days of that meeting. This will be held in a closed executive session if personnel issues are involved.

PUBLIC COMPLAINTS / GRIEVANCE POLICY

The Board of Directors of Community Leadership Academy and administration seek to provide the highest quality service to the public and wishes to improve wherever service may be deficient. Therefore, the administration invites constructive criticism from parents and patrons of the school.

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The Board of Directors presumes that teachers act in a professional manner and in accordance with the adopted curriculum and instructional strategies. However, the Board recognizes the rights of individuals and groups to present their concerns directly related to the curriculum, instructional materials, instructional strategies, and educational activities in the school. These concerns may be addressed at Open Forum. This policy provides a fair, orderly, and timely process for handling personnel complaints, which will be handled in closed session. The Board relies first on the teachers and staff to handle the concerns of the public. It is the policy of the Board to provide for resolution at the level most directly involved first and in an informal manner if possible. However, if such resolution cannot be accomplished, a hearing may be requested to discuss this matter. Such a hearing will only be granted if the complainant has followed the procedure set forth in this document. Community Leadership Academy trusts, values, and supports its employees and seeks to protect them against unwarranted and unnecessary attacks. Therefore, all formal complaints by members of the public concerning school personnel shall be in writing and bear the signature of the concerned party. Anyone who defames a Community Leadership Academy employee and damages a persons professional reputation, whether before students or any third party, may be subject to legal action brought by the employee. PROVISIONS: A. Nothing contained herein shall be construed so as to limit in any way the ability of, or authority for, CLA staff and the grievant to resolve any grievance informally. B. This grievance procedure shall take precedence over any other formal grievance procedure. C. Failure to file or pursue a grievance or appeal, at any level, in a timely fashion as specified herein bars any further proceedings to that grievance. D. Grievances must be submitted on CLAs grievance form. E. No complaint shall be recognized by the Principal or supervisor unless it shall have been presented within 7 school days after the public knew, or should have known of the act on which the complaint is based. If not so presented, the complaint shall be considered waived. Parents or patrons of the school who wish to express a concern must follow the PROCEDURE listed below: 1. Initial Communication A member of the public with a concern or complaint about a staff member should first try to resolve the matter directly and informally with the staff member concerned. 2. Review If the matter cannot be resolved informally at the initial level, the concerned party should submit a written statement describing his/her concerns in a clear, specific and detailed manner and submit it to the appropriate principal or the staff members supervisor. The principal or supervisor shall investigate the facts and meet with the concerned party and then with the staff person(s) named in the written statement in an effort to facilitate a mutually acceptable resolution. The issue shall be resolved within ten (10) school days from the receipt of the written statement unless the parties involved mutually agree to extend that period. After that time period, the principal or supervisor will supply the concerned party with a verbal or written result of the investigation. 3. Appeal If the issue has not been resolved to the concerned partys satisfaction, he or she may submit a written appeal within ten (10) school days to the Executive Director. The Executive Director will hold a conference of all parties involved within ten (10) school days. The concerned party will receive a written response within ten (10) school days after the conference. 4. Appeal to the Board of Directors If the issue is still not resolved to the concerned partys satisfaction, he or she may submit a written appeal within ten (10) school days to the Board of Directors. The Board has the discretion to accept or reject the Executive Directors resolution of the issue. The Board of Directors will give its decision by the next regular meeting (or sooner, if the situation warrants). If the Board rejects the Executive Directors decision, it will hear the matter at the first regular session. A vote by a simple majority of the Board members shall be required to come to a decision. The matter will be heard in closed session unless the staff member involved requests an open hearing. The Board of Directors will supply the concerned party with a verbal or written result of the investigation.

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WORKPLACE SAFETY
All Community Leadership Academy employees are responsible for following safety guidelines, thinking ahead, and using good decision making to help make Community Leadership Academy an injury free environment. Below is a list of behaviors to always follow in performing your position, but is not all inclusive. Common sense should be used in all instances to ensure an optimum safe workplace. Employees or students should never stand on anything other than a stepstool or ladder to reach, move or hang items that are out of their normal reach Do not leave electrical cords or other items in a walk path that anyone might use Do not lift students Do not lift items beyond your capacity When lifting always lift by bending at the knees and not with your back Ensure your computer screen is lifted to eye level to reduce strain on neck and eyes Follow all guidelines as issued by your supervisor concerning workplace safety and your job Follow all posted entrance and exit signs properly All maintenance and custodial employees will use caution signs to block all areas being cleaned, worked on or are unsafe Follow all caution signs properly and do not cross caution tape placed in any area of the school Report any unsafe environment immediately to Administration

If you are injured on the job a report must be made within 24 hours. Please follow the instructions under workers compensation detailed in the staff lounge and available in the Business Office.

END OF YEAR INVENTORY AND DUTY

During the summer all rooms will be revitalized. You may be asked to box and place all classroom items outside your room, depending upon what work will be taking place during the summer. Teachers will need to follow the instructions on the End of Year Inventory and Check-out Forms. The forms and procedures will be available one month prior to the end of the school year

TELEPHONE AND CELL PHONE USAGE

From time to time it may be necessary to make and receive personal calls. These calls should be limited to no more than 3 minutes, and should be made, whenever possible, during the scheduled break and meal periods. Excessive abuse of this policy will not be tolerated. Permission for students to use any telephone during school hours must only come from the students teacher or administration, and may be used in emergencies if necessary.

EMPLOYEE SIGNING IN AND OUT

All employees are required to check in and out each day using the Biocheck System. 1. Check in when you report at the beginning of the day 2. Check out when you leave work at the end of the day All staff must notify Administration if they are leaving the school premises during regularly scheduled working hours.

EMPLOYEE TARDINESS AND ABSENCE

At no time should staff procure their own substitute or ask any other staff to cover for them without checking with their supervisor or administrator. It is important that employees work their assigned schedules as consistently as possible. Regular attendance and punctuality are two very important considerations in evaluating the effectiveness of our employees. Excessive absenteeism and tardiness are grounds for disciplinary action, including termination. Community Leadership Academy understands that illness or an emergency may cause you to be unable to come to work. It is your responsibility to keep Community Leadership Academy informed on a daily basis during a short-term absence and provide medical verification when asked to do so. 17-42

Employees are expected to be ready to begin work at the beginning of their scheduled start time and at the end of their scheduled breaks and meal period. Except in an emergency, employees must have their supervisors permission to leave work before they are regularly scheduled to do so. A tardy or absence is considered excused only when you call ahead of time. Failing to call in a tardy or absence will be considered unexcused. Community Leadership Academy considers unexcused tardiness and absence to be a serious problem. Excessive absenteeism or tardiness or a consistent pattern of absence, whether excused or unexcused will not be tolerated. ILLNESS OR EMERGENCY ABSENCES: If you are unable to report to work because of illness or an emergency, you must contact your designated principal no later than 7:00 a.m. Of course, a situation may come up at the last minute, but it is best to call as early as possible to provide administration the time to schedule coverage. DO NOT leave a message; you must call until you speak directly with an administrator.

PERSONAL TIME OFF (PTO)

Full time salaried and hourly employees will eligible to earn up to 7 days of Paid Time Off during each year. To request PTO, an Absence Request form must be submitted to your principal or supervisor one week in advance of your absence, if possible. PTO may not be granted on any one day to more than 10% of staff. If requests are to be denied because more than 10% of staff request the same day, the denials will be in inverse order of receipt. PTO is not available on staff work days, professional development days or days immediately prior to or following a holiday. If an employee is absent, for any reason, during these work days the employee will not be granted PTO and he/she will not receive compensation for that day. If this occurs for salary employees, a deduction will appear on the next paycheck. PTO benefits may be accumulated up to a maximum of 14 days. Employees who accumulate the maximum benefit allowed will not earn additional PTO benefits until their accumulated total has been reduced below the maximum. Thereafter, PTO benefits will only be earned up to the maximum amount. Teachers and classified staff may choose to cash out unused personal leave at the conclusion of the school year or roll over available days to the following school year. Employees will be given the option to carry over days or cash out available days at the end of the school year. Payments will be made on the last pay check of the fiscal year (June 30).

BEREAVEMENT
Community Leadership Academy will pay full compensation up to three (3) days for bereavement. Bereavement days may be taken following the death of immediate family members. Immediate family includes spouse, children, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and first cousins of employee or spouse.

JURY DUTY
Community Leadership Academy will pay full compensation for jury duty.

STAFF ABSENCES:
Complete the Absence Request form for planned absences for personal or professional reasons. Requests should be made one week in advance, except in cases of emergency. These absences must be pre-approved by your supervisor or principal as soon as you know the date(s) of the absence. LESSON PLANS FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS: If the absence is planned ahead of time, a lesson plan must be provided to your principal In the event you call in, please email your plans to your principal and the school secretary

FOLDERS FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS: All instructional staff must have a folder for substitute teachers on file with the Principal that consists of the following: 1. Generic day substitute plan (in case you cannot provide current written plans) 2. Current seating chart 3. List of dependable students 4. Disciplinary procedures for the classroom and school 5. Teacher management plan 18-42

6.

Procedures for all routines, such as opening of class, transitions, recess and lunch supervision schedules, instructions to check voicemail, and class signals 7. Classroom rules 8. Playground rules (if applicable) 9. Daily academic schedule 10. Location of lesson plans, teacher manuals, grade books, and anything else a substitute may need 11. Emergency procedures 12. Student medical issues

PARENTAL LEAVE
The following Parental Leave Policy has been adopted to promote a family-friendly work environment that will enhance the recruitment and retention of excellent staff. A full-time employee who becomes the parent of a child, or whose spouse becomes the parent of a child, either by childbirth or through adoption of a minor child shall be entitled to a leave of up to twelve weeks (60 work days). The request for this leave should be in writing to the Executive Director. The request should be made as soon as reasonably possible after the need for a leave becomes known in order to minimize the administrative burden of ensuring adequate coverage. The Parental Leave will ordinarily be taken in the perinatal period or near the time the child is placed for adoption. Special circumstances may be agreed upon with the approval of the Executive Director. The employee will be relieved of his or her normal duties and responsibilities during the period of leave. An employee who takes a Parental Leave is expected to return to active status upon the expiration of qualified leave. The benefits afforded employees under this policy are intended to be consistent and not in conflict with the rights afforded under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Any leave taken under this policy is intended to count as and run concurrent with FMLA leave, and the written request should clearly state that intention. An employee who takes Parental Leave under this policy may qualify for short-term disability insurance benefits for up to six (6) weeks. Otherwise, leave under this policy is not compensated. Employees on Parental Leave who return to work following the end of the leave will be returned to the same job they held immediately prior to their leave. Failure to return to work on the first workday following the expiration of the approved Parental Leave may be considered a voluntary resignation by the employee.

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EMPLOYEES CHILDREN IN THE WORKPLACE

Procedures governing children in the workplace are necessary to avoid disruptions to CLA employees, to reduce personal and property liability to CLA and to protect the welfare and safety of employees children and CLA students. Community Leadership Academy is flexible in granting accrued leave to employees who need to make emergency child care arrangements. Administration determines the approval of allowing an employees child in the workplace on a case-by-case basis with consideration focusing on the employees daily responsibilities ensuring student supervision and instruction are not jeopardized. In most cases, children are only permitted under extremely unusual circumstances when an employee has experienced an unanticipated short-term emergency and only when the employees supervisor and the Executive Director have granted permission. If the employee has been granted permission to bring a child to the workplace, the child must be admitted as an official guest of the employee, behave appropriately, and must be supervised by the employee at all times. These guidelines apply to all CLA employees and include normal working hours and non-working hours. It does not apply to participation in a structured event, such as a barbeque or other event where families are invited and encouraged to participate. Employees are personally responsible for the behavior of their children when they are participating in an approved activity.

PERSONAL APPEARANCE
Your appearance reflects not only on you as an individual, but on Community Leadership Academy, too. Everyone is expected to take pride in their appearance and strive to achieve a positive educational and business-like image when representing the school. Employees should use good judgment in accordance with the following standards in determining dress and appearance while at work. PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE: Administrators, Managers, Teachers, Academic Assistants and Support Staff are expected to dress professionally or in business casual attire because of the nature of the work and contact with the public. Shirt and tie, golf shirts, sweaters, slacks are appropriate for men; Skirts, dress slacks or dresses are appropriate for women General: It is the intent of Community Leadership Academy to establish general guidelines for dress. Employees are asked to comply with the following principle in selecting work apparel that is appropriate to the work being performed: Tops: Any color, any pattern/design. (no tank tops, sleeveless, spaghetti straps, cleavage showing) Polo shirts, oxford shirts, sweaters, blouses are appropriate. (Camisoles may only be worn if sweaters/shirts are worn on top ALL DAY) Bottoms: Skirts & Dresses no higher than 3 above the knees Pants chino, business and dress slacks are appropriate. (No cargo, tight/skinny pants, leggings, or shorts) Maintain a neat, clean and professional appearance, and dress in a manner consistent with work responsibilities. The following list is considered a serious violation of the personal appearance policy and all violators will be subject to discipline actions. Flip flops open toed sandals are allowed Visible bra straps or cleavage Sheer blouses or fabric Stomach skin & upper and lower back skin Torn, ripped clothing Short skirts or dresses (higher than 3 above the knee) Tattoos must be covered whenever possible Jeans, sweatpants, sweatshirts, tank tops Shorts Tennis type shoes (permission with doctors note for foot problems) Clothing that displays alcohol, drugs, etc.

EXCEPTIONS: Employees whose work requires that they perform physical activity can wear appropriate casual attire that is in good repair, including jeans and closed-toe casual shoes, such as tennis shoes. Employees should always consider safety when selecting their work attire.

WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE

Workers Compensation Insurance automatically covers all employees at the time they are hired. Community Leadership Academy pays 100% of the premiums for this coverage.

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Employees must report, in writing, any work related injury to Community Leadership Academy within (96) hours after the incident. To report an injury, fill out a workers compensation incident report available in the Business Office. Employees using Workers Compensation must then go to a doctor at a designated medical facility. If the employee declines treatment, the employee must still fill out the incident report and indicate treatment is declined on the report.

GROUP INSURANCE PLAN

Full-time salaried and full-time hourly employees are eligible for enrollment in Community Leadership Academys group medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and dismemberment, and short term disability insurance plans. If you begin employment on or before the 15th of the month you are eligible the first day of the following month. If you begin employment after the 15 th of the month you will become eligible the first day of the next month. Community Leadership Academy provides a benefit allotment for each full-time employee that is to be used towards benefit premiums. If the employee does not need or does not desire the benefits offered, the benefit allotment reverts back to Community Leadership Academy. Community Leadership Academy currently covers 100% of medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and dismemberment, and short term disability for all employees. Detailed information will be provided at the time of enrollment or contact the Business Office with any questions.

RETIREMENT PLANS
Public Employees Retirement Account (PERA) In lieu of Social Security, all employees are automatically enrolled in PERA. The employee contributes 8% of his/her salary and the school contributes 13.85-14.75%. For a detailed description of benefits, retirement criteria or specifics about your account please contact the PERA office below: Colorado PERA Customer Service: (303) 832-9550 1-800-759-7372 questions@copera.org PERA 401(k) PERA offers a 401(k) investment account. To enroll in this program, please contact the Business Office.

PAYDAY
Paychecks are issued on the last business day of each month. All employees are paid over a twelve-month period regardless of work schedule. Employees approved to do supplemental work must submit an approved supplemental time sheet to the Business Office by the 15th of the month in order to be paid on the next check date. All supplemental time sheets must be approved by the relevant department supervisor and the Executive Director.

DIRECT DEPOSIT
Community Leadership Academy uses direct deposit for all employee payroll amounts. This means that on the last business day of each month, payroll checks are directly deposited in the checking account the employee designates. If an employee changes banking institutions or accounts, documentation must be provided to the Business Office by the 15th of the month prior to payroll processing. You must sign a direct deposit agreement available in the Business Office and provide them with a voided check for your checking or savings account. Community Leadership Academy does provide payroll advances or cash paychecks.

GARNISHMENTS
Community Leadership Academy must honor all legal garnishments according to Federal and State regulations. Employees may be required to pay a monthly processing fee for each garnishment.

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EMPLOYMENT POSTINGS
Employment information is posted above the mailboxes. This is for the benefit of all employees. You will find posters that explain state and federal laws and updated information about Community Leadership Academys guidelines. Employees are responsible for checking this information on a regular basis and for reading all posted material.

EMPLOYMENT OF RELATIVES
The School shall not offer employment to nor hire any person, nor assign any employee to a position, in which an immediate relative would 1) directly or indirectly have the authority to supervise, appoint, dismiss or discipline another; or 2) verify, receive or be entrusted with money received or handled by another, or 3) have access to the employer's confidential information including payroll and personnel records of another.

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SCHOOL/BUILDING PROCEDURES
EMERGENCY CLOSURE
Should winter weather become sufficient to warrant closure, this information will be provided to media outlets, such as local television stations (Channel 4, 7 & 9) that normally report this occurrence. The Executive Director will make the decision on whether or not to close CLA. This policy applies to delayed starts at CLA as well. The Executive Director will also decide closures of CLA for reasons other than weather. This information will also be provided to the necessary media outlets.

EMERGENCY DRILLS
By law, CLA is required to hold monthly safety drills, weather permitting. Every room has a designated escape route and exit procedure posted. Teachers will review this procedure with their students on the first day of school, and the school will schedule monthly practice drills to insure student safety and building coordination. Students and teachers are assigned a safety location within the building and are taught proper procedures and positions to assume and maintain during the emergency tornado drills. Please discuss and review the importance of these drills with your children and explain the purpose and necessity for them. It is not our intention to alarm children or parents; however, the importance of a quick and safe reaction without high emotional behavior is critical for our students.

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SERVICE

CLA uses the Safe-T-Net ALERTNOW Emergency Notification Service. This service will send a message to all contact numbers provided within minutes after an emergency or incident has occurred at or around the school. It may be used to give instructions to parents on what they need to do to respond to their child(ren) or provide alternate location information in cases where students have been evacuated to an alternate site. The success of the message is only as successful as the contact information we have for our students so please make certain that we have the most current contact info.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT PLAN

Community Leadership Academys Crisis Management Procedures delineates the steps to be followed in a variety of crises (e.g. missing child, suicide intervention for students and staff, evacuation procedures, etc.). All staff must become familiar with the plan and follow it when a crisis occurs.

FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDURES

Exit the building safely and immediately following the evacuation plan found in classrooms. Plans are posted throughout the building and in classrooms. Close the classroom door, turn out the lights, and go to your predetermined place on the school grounds. Keep students as quiet and orderly as possible. Take attendance and inform the Administrator in charge if any students are unaccounted for. Any student who is in the bathroom or elsewhere should join the closest supervising adult. Re-enter the building only after you are given an all clear by the school administration.

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EMERGENCY STANDARD RESPONSE PROTOCOL

CLA follows the Standard Response Protocol established in Colorado in a joint effort with emergency responders. Security Alerts Refer to the safety packet located by the door in each room

In an Emergency When you hear it. Do it.

Lockout - Lockdown - Evacuate Shelter
Lockout! Secure the Perimeter. Lockdown! Locks, Lights, Out of Sight.

Students
Return inside Business as usual

Students
Move away from sight Maintain silence

Teachers
Bring students into the building Increase situational awareness Take roll Business as usual

Teachers
Lock classroom door Turn out the lights Move away from sight Maintain silence Wait for responder to open door Take roll

Evacuate! (Directions to Follow.)

Shelter! (Directions to Follow.)

Students
Leave your stuff behind Form a line Hand in hand

Students
Shelter Types: 1. For Tornado 2. For Bomb 3. For Hazmat Shelter Methods: 1. Drop, Cover an Hold 2. And Seal 3. In Silence

Teachers
Lead Evacuation to Location Take roll Notify if missing, extra or injured students

Teachers
Shelter Type Shelter Method Take roll

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CHILD ABUSE REPORTING

Community Leadership Academy has established procedures for reporting suspected abuse to the specified social service agency and/or law enforcement agency in compliance with the provisions of the Child Protection Act of 1987. In addition, Community Leadership Academy will implement periodic in-service programs for all school personnel about the recognition and reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect, and other related issues as provided by law. The confidentiality of reports of suspected child abuse or neglect shall be preserved in accordance with statute.
LEGAL REFERENCES: C.R.S. 19-1-103 (Definitions) C.R.S. 19-3-102 (Neglected or dependent child) C.R.S. 19-3-103 (Child not neglected when) C.R.S. 19-3-301 et. seq. (Child Protection Act of 1987) C.R.S. 22-32-109(1)(z) (Board of education specific duties) C.R.S. 22-32-109.1(9)(d) (Board of education specific powers and duties safe schools)

Reporting Procedures 1. 2. The employee shall notify a building administrator. The employee having knowledge of the matter shall immediately report to the Department of Social Services or local law enforcement. a. Reports of abuse by a parent or someone in a childs home should be directed to Social Services. b. Reports of third party abuse should be directed to local law enforcement. The reporting individual shall promptly follow up any oral reports to the Department of Social Services or local law enforcement agency with a written report prepared by the appropriate employee setting forth in as much detail as possible information required by statute or the appropriate agency. Maintain detailed documentation of the reporting including date, time of report, names of persons spoke with, etc. Provide all documentation to the appropriate principal.

3.

4. 5.

Should the suspected abuse involve a Community Leadership Academy employee, the appropriate principal shall notify the Executive Director immediately after oral notification of local law enforcement or receipt of notification of a report from an employee.

VOICE MAIL
Check your voicemail messages throughout the day and especially before lunch and before students are dismissed for the day to ensure that important messages, which could include transportation issues, are heard.

STAFF MAIL BOXES

Boxes for notes and phone messages are located in the hall outside the faculty lounge. All employees should check these boxes 3 times a day to assure timely communications.

WEEKLY STAFF MEETINGS

All staff are required to attend CLAs weekly staff meeting each Monday from 4:00-5:00 p.m. Updates regarding operations and events are discussed and break-out sessions regarding CDIs, RtI or Solutions, assessment, etc. are held.

EMPLOYEE PARKING
All staff need to park in the designated parking spaces in Community Leadership Academys parking lots. Parking at Community Leadership Academy is at your own risk. Community Leadership Academy is not responsible for theft or damage to any vehicles or any personal property left in vehicles that is lost, damaged, stolen, or destroyed.

PERSONAL ITEMS
Employees should not bring large sums of money, jewelry, or other valuables to work. Community Leadership Academy is not responsible for personal property that is lost, damaged, stolen, or destroyed. If you happen to find personal belongings that have been lost by another person, please turn them in to the front office. 25-42

SCHOOL ITEMS
Phones, computers and other permanent equipment must remain in their original designated area. If you move to a new classroom, all Community Leadership Academy equipment and furniture will remain in the original classroom.

COPY AND LAMINATING MACHINES

All staff has access to copy machines in the staff lounge and on the 2nd floor of the school. A laminating machine is located in the Staff Lounge. Teachers and staff are responsible for making their own copies. Please be economically and environmentally conscientious of the number of copies you make.

COPYRIGHTS
Community Leadership Academy recognizes that media, regardless of format, whether print and non-print, may be subject to copyright regulations imposed by the United States Copyright Law. All school personnel shall ensure that the School educational programs or activities comply with this statute*. The school assumes no liability for infringement of copyright by individual employees. Copyright infringements are a federal criminal offense. Here are some important things to remember when dealing with copyrighted material: 1. 2. 3. 4. Omitting a copyright is an infringement. The absence of the intent to infringe, the lack of a profit motive, citing the source, or giving the owner credit to your materials does NOT avoid infringement. Adding a copyright to your materials without legal application and filing is an infringement. Copyrights last until the owners death and up to at least 50 years afterwards.

There are some fair use options for copyright materials - some that are peculiar to education sheet music for classroom use.
LEGAL REFERENCES: *Title 17, United States Code, Public Law 94-553

PURCHASING
Community Leadership Academy is a non-profit organization and does not reimburse for any taxes paid. If you wish to make a purchase on your own, please see the Accounting Manager for a copy of Community Leadership Academys tax exempt certificate to present at the time of your purchase. Exceptions are made for some restaurants and out of state businesses that do not honor tax exemptions. All purchases must follow the Board approved Community Leadership Academy Purchasing Policy. This policy is available in the Business Office.

EXPENSE REPORTING
Business related expenses may be reimbursed if they are pre-approved via the Request For Funds (RFF) process. Attach all receipts to the approved RFF and submit to the Business Office for payment. Community Leadership Academy will not pay for any sales taxes incurred. You may obtain the tax exempt ID number from the Business Office prior to purchasing to avoid incurring taxes. If you are requesting reimbursement for mileage or trip related expenses, attach a mileage and/or business expense report to the RFF for payment.

PURCHASING ORDERING SUPPLIES

Ordering Supplies Fill out a Request for Supplies form available in the office. Place the order form in the mailbox for the school secretary. If the supplies needed are not listed on the form, please see the bookkeeper or secretary for a catalog of additional supplies. Other Purchases Purchases of all other items, and supplies for non-teaching staff require a Request For Funds form to be completed, approved by a Principal or the Executive Director.

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DRESS DOWN DAY FUNDRAISER

Dress Down Days are held on an average of once each month to raise funds for a specific grade level project or school-wide cause. Students can choose to participate in the Dress Down Day by paying $1.00 to their teacher up to the day of the Dress Down Day. Teachers should review the rules for Dress Down Days with students the day before the event to assure minimal violations. Following are the basic rules for Dress Down Days: Students who fail to wear the appropriate clothing for the Dress Down Day will be required to make arrangements to obtain their school uniform, or be sent home for the day. Any absences due to dress code violations will be considered unexcused. Students not participating are expected to wear their CLA uniform. Clothing must be clean and in good repair and NOT disruptive to the educational process (i.e. too tight/baggy, too short, low cut or otherwise revealing).

Funds that are raised for the Dress Down Day are to be turned into the Bookkeeper.

FRIDAY WEAR
Staff & students may wear all CLA t-shirts, sweatshirts, and polos that have been approved by administration.

SCHOOL PICTURES
Individual student pictures are scheduled in the fall and class pictures are scheduled in the spring. Wednesday uniforms are required for school pictures.

CUSTODIAL OR MAINTENANCE REQUESTS

If you have a custodial need, please notify the school secretary.

SCHOOL CALENDAR
A copy of the annual school calendar is located in the school office.

SCHOOL MASCOT/COLORS
Community Leadership Academys school mascot is the Falcon. School colors are blue and gold.

HOURS OF OPERATION
School hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. The school office is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, unless it is a school holiday, break or in-service. Breakfast will begin each morning at 7:40 a.m. in the cafeteria. Parents in the building after 8:00 a.m. must sign in at the office and obtain a visitor/volunteer badge.

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

Community Leadership Academy is a closed campus. Visitors must check in at the school office before continuing on campus. Visitors will be given visitor badges. Students are not allowed to bring friends to school for the day. These types of school visits can be disruptive to the educational process.

VOLUNTEERS
Teachers and staff are encouraged to utilize parents as volunteers and may make use of any volunteer included in the Approved Community Leadership Academy Volunteer list. This list is updated with every new volunteer request and kept in the Office for review. NO VOLUNTEER MAY BE UTILIZED UNLESS THEY ARE ON COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP ACADEMY APPROVED VOLUNTEER LIST.

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All prospective volunteers (including field trip chaperones) must sign a Volunteer Agreement and submit it to the Business Office prior to volunteering. A Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) check will be made on the prospective volunteer. If the CBI check is clear, the teacher/staff member will be advised that they may schedule the volunteer and an updated list of Community Leadership Academy Approved Volunteers. If the CBI check is questionable, the prospective volunteer and requesting staff member will be notified that they are not cleared to volunteer in the school or on school activities. If the prospective volunteer wishes to meet regarding the decision, Community Leadership Academy administration will meet with them to discuss the CBI report. The appropriate administrator will decide whether or not to let the individual volunteer and inform the prospective volunteer of the decision.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE & ABSENCES

School attendance is a critical part of a student's school record. Good attendance helps ensure better work habits and is a critical component for student academic achievement. Excessive tardies and or absences diminish greatly the opportunity for the school to provide a quality education to a student. Regular attendance is expected from ALL students enrolled at Community Leadership Academy. Colorados compulsory school attendance law C.R.S. 22-33-104 states: a childs parent or guardian has a legal duty to make sure his/her child attends school. School administrators are required to report the student to the proper county/state authorities as being truant from school whenever they believe such absences from school are willful on the part of the student and his/her parents or guardians. To this end, Community Leadership Academy will only allow each student 8 absent days per semester, excused or unexcused. Eight absences within a semester will initiate an Emergency Attendance meeting with school administration. Following the meeting, the student and family will agree to a Critical Attendance Plan. That plan will allow only two more absences. Should there be two more absences within the semester (not approved by administration), the parent will, according to the signed agreement with CLA at the time of enrollment, voluntarily withdraw their student or students. Absences are excused only if the parent has called to report the absence. All absences must be called in within 24 hours of the students absence. The student, sibling, or someone else may not call to excuse an absence; the parent or guardian must make the phone call. CLA Administration may excuse absences due to significant health or other circumstances outside a familys control. The following is a comprehensive list of excused absences. Such excuses will be accepted with documentation, when a student is: Temporarily ill or injured or whose absence is approved by the school administration on a prearranged basis. Prearranged absences shall be approved for appointments or circumstances of a serious nature only if they cannot be taken care of outside of school hours. Absent for an extended period due to physical, mental, or emotional disability. Attending any school-sponsored activity or activities of an educational nature with advance approval by the school administration. Excused by a parent or guardian for observance of religious holidays. Bereavement Participating in school-approved activities.

STUDENT TARDIES
Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring students arrive at school on time. A student is considered late after 8:00 a.m. Late arrivals are disruptive and should be avoided. Students are allowed 8 tardies per semester excused or unexcused. Eight tardies within a semester will initiate an Emergency Attendance meeting with school administration. Following the meeting the student and family will agree to a Critical Attendance Plan. That plan will allow only two more tardies. Should there be two more tardies (not approved by administration) within the semester, the parent will, according to the signed agreement with CLA at the time of enrollment, voluntarily withdraw their student or students. Excessive tardies will be considered absences and will be subject to Colorados compulsory school attendance law C.R.S. 22-33-104.

STUDENT ARRIVAL TIME

Adult supervision is provided in the cafeteria and gymnasium twenty (20) minutes before the start of the instructional day. Students should not arrive on the school grounds before 7:40 a.m. The school is not responsible for student behavior and/or safety prior to the twenty-minute period of time. Breakfast will begin each morning at 7:40 a.m. in the cafeteria.

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STUDENTS LEAVING SCHOOL EARLY

A parent or guardian MUST visit the office and sign out the student(s) before leaving the school campus. No exceptions. Early release between 3:30 4:00 p.m. is not allowed for safety reasons.

STUDENT DISMISSAL TIME

Students are released from school at 4:00 p.m. Adult supervision is provided on the school grounds for fifteen (15) minutes after the close of the student's instructional day. All students should be off the school grounds within fifteen minutes of dismissal, unless under the direct supervision of a school staff member. The school is not responsible for student behavior and/or safety after the fifteenminute period of time.

STUDENT MAKE-UP WORK

If a child is absent from school, it is the familys responsibility to contact the office to request make-up work for the day(s) missed. Please call no later than 11:00 a.m. to request make-up work. Make-up homework may be picked up at the school office at the end of the school day. This does take additional valuable teacher time, so please if you cannot pick-up the work, dont request it. Students have two days to make up any missed work for each day of absence.

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION
CLA provides transportation within the Adams County School District 14 boundaries for students living farther than 1 mile from the school. If you need this service, please contact the office. Please remember riding the school bus is a privilege. Improper conduct on the buses will result in that privilege being denied.

SCHOOL TO HOME COMMUNICATION

CLA seeks to provide updated and accurate information on all aspects of the school to both students and parents. CLA is committed to facilitating four forms of communication between the school and home: student planners, telephone messaging, the school newsletters and e-mail. A messaging system is available to allow parents to contact teachers, administration and other staff members should questions arise regarding a student or the school. Parents are also encouraged to utilize e-mail to contact CLA. Classroom newsletters are sent home every Monday in the Monday Folder. Please review your students classroom newsletter and respond with any questions when you return the Monday folders on Tuesday. Also, daily communication is required through the student planner.

FAMILY COMMUNICATION
We must all make sure that all written items sent to parents or the community represents Community Leadership Academy in a positive way and that they are not repetitive, poorly timed, or poorly written. The reputation of the school is established in many small ways over time, and assuring that printed information is accurate and well done is an important aspect of that process. Teachers are to send home student work with each student. Teachers are expected to communicate academic information regarding the classroom on a regular basis. Test dates, spelling lists, special events, and general assignment of expectations and deadlines are very helpful to our parents and their planning. It is also a good idea to share what will be taking place in the next week so that parents are fully informed. Include the following in your communication: The previous weeks work that you have finished grading Any notes, newsletters, or communications from you Any notes, newsletters, or communications from the school Because notes and newsletters are a powerful communication tool, appearance, warmth, and completeness are extremely important. You need to use computer word processing programs in generating any letters. Forward a copy of your newsletter to your principal for proofreading before you send it out. All publications, newsletters and notes that are sent home to parents of Community Leadership Academy students must be pre-approved by the Principal prior to being sent home to parents. This does not include an individual note a teacher or other staff member might send home to the parents of a certain child.

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LOST & FOUND

Lost & Found is located in the cafeteria. Clothing, books and other items that are unclaimed at the school will be placed in the Lost & Found. This material will remain there for retrieval through the end of each semester. At those times, all items will be donated to charity. Lost and found money, jewelry, glasses or other valuables are sent to the office to be claimed.

BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAM

CLA provides a school breakfast and lunch program, including access to free and reduced price meals for all students. Breakfast is served from 7:40 a.m. 8:00 a.m. Breakfast Free for students Adult $2.00

Parents in the building after 8:00 a.m. must sign in at the office and obtain a visitor/volunteer badge.
Lunch Free for students Adult $3.00

CLA prohibits any food or drink from commercial restaurants to be brought or delivered to the cafeteria. Sack lunch items may not be shared or distributed to other students. (Of course, parents/guardians may take their student out to lunch or enjoy lunch with their child in the cafeteria.)

CAFETERIA RULES
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Students will come to the cafeteria, escorted in a line by their teacher, to pick up their hot lunches. In the lunch area, students will sit at the tables to which they are assigned. Students are not allowed to share food with other students due to possible food allergies and consumption of food without parental consent. All children will remain in the lunch area for at least 20 minutes. In order to be dismissed from the lunch area, students must raise their hands. A supervisor will dismiss the student when any surrounding debris has been picked up from the floor and tabletop. All food must be eaten in the lunch area. Students may not take food out of the lunch area. Students are to walk directly to the playground after dismissal from the lunch area. While in the lunch area, students will use quiet voices, and once seated, must remain seated until dismissed.

The following behaviors will not be allowed in the lunch area: Loud talking, yelling, or whistling, throwing any object, walking about, changing seats or leaving without permission, popping bags, or food fights.

HOLIDAY OBSERVANCES
CLA acknowledges the importance of holidays with religious origins in our national, social and cultural life. Diversity is a hallmark and strength of our nation. Teachers and administrators will excuse students who do not wish to participate in holiday events. Acknowledging religious holidays serves the academic goal of educating students about history and culture, as well as the traditions of particular religions within a pluralistic society. School concerts that present a variety of selections may include religious music. Any dramatic productions or school parties should emphasize the cultural and historical aspects of the holiday. Rooms, bulletin boards, and worksheets may be decorated with a specific holiday emphasis at the discretion of the teacher. If a parent or guardian has a concern with anything, he/she should first discuss the situation privately with his/her students teacher. If a concern still exists, s/he should contact the Principal. Parents are requested to notify their students teacher at the beginning of the year if they do not wish their child to participate in parties or a particular holiday, seasonal, or cultural observance.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Community Leadership Academy recognizes that birthdays are a special day for our students which should be acknowledged while ensuring that the celebration does not disrupt the learning process. School celebrations focus on the student without any food or sweet treats being allowed. CLA is sensitive to the serious issues of safety with life-threatening food allergies, obesity which is a national 30-42

issue and the economic difficulties faced by many families. Birthdays are celebrated with the following birthday package provided by the school: (Students who have birthdays in the summer will be celebrated on their birthday) Acknowledged during the school-wide morning assembly and/or in the classroom Special birthday gift (book) Your child may want to select a book to donate to his/her classroom library as a birthday commemoration. Note: Invitations to private birthday parties may not be distributed at school. Please do not send any deliveries of balloons, food, or other items. (If sent, these items will remain in the office where they may be retrieved at the end of the school day.) This policy prohibits any food or drink from commercial restaurants to be brought or delivered to the cafeteria. Sack lunch items may not be shared or distributed to other students. (Of course, parents/guardians may enjoy lunch with their child in the cafeteria or take their student out to lunch.)

SCHOOL ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

All students entering kindergarten in Adams County School District 14 public schools must have reached their fifth (5th) birthday in the year of entrance on or before October 1. Students entering first grade must have reached their sixth (6th) birthday by October 1. Birth certificates and immunization records must be presented at the time of enrollment.

STUDENT ENROLLMENT POLICY

Community Leadership Academy is a school of choice. Choice may be revoked as allowed by statute. The students attendance must be prompt and regular and the students conduct must be in accordance with school policies, procedures, rules and regulations. The grade in which the student is enrolled must not be overcrowded. If the placement is terminated or revoked, the student shall be enrolled in his/her home school. Community Leadership Academy requires that all students wanting to attend CLA complete an Intent to Enroll form. If the number of students who have submitted an Intent to Enroll form exceeds the available space at CLA, all such students shall be entered onto a waiting list. Students will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis once the priority enrollment requirements are concluded. Students may be admitted as space allows up to September 20 th or as determined by school administration. Priority enrollment for admission: 1. children of CLAs founders 2. siblings of students enrolled in the school 3. resident students of Adams County School District 14 Returning students are required to complete an Intent to Return form and complete the registration documents prior to May 1 st annually. Special Education: Requests from the parents of special education students for admission shall be considered in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. The student's current Individual Education Plan (IEP) shall be used to determine if the requested school or program can meet the student's needs. Once the student is admitted, the district shall conduct a staffing to update the IEP. Community Leadership Academy does not make any distinction on account of race, national origin, sex, ethnic group, religion, marital status, or disability of any student who may be in attendance or who seeks admission.

STUDENT INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE

Students are prohibited from accessing the Internet without a signed permission form; parents and students are required to sign the form. CLA intends that students will use the Internet only for appropriate, school-related applications and reserves the right to prohibit students from its use should non-school or unacceptable uses be detected.

STUDENT CLASS PLACEMENT POLICY

Class placement is at the sole discretion of the Principal after recommendations from each classroom teacher. Consideration for class placement is given to male/female ratio, balance in ability level, and most importantly, to a suitable student/student match. The staff will work hard to arrange classes so that they will be well balanced, keeping in mind what is best for all students.

STUDENT WITHDRAWAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Community Leadership Academy Charter School reserves the right to withhold any and all students transcripts, records, and files until the following provisions are met:
All curriculum textbooks are returned 31-42

All unpaid balances or fees must be paid in full

The Parent must go to the front office and coordinate the withdrawal process with the Secretary. Parents and students are not allowed to check out during instruction hours. It is upon the satisfaction of the above provisions that Community Leadership Academy will release the required documents necessary to enroll the student elsewhere. If students do not turn in all books or have outstanding fines, all records and reports from the teacher will be sent to collections, and records and reports will be withheld until payment is made. Parent/Guardian will be allowed to clean out their childs desk or locker after school hours only. This will avoid any disruptions that a teacher as well as the students may encounter during instructional time. Community Leadership Academy administration reserves the right to verify all signatures and any other outstanding fees not stated before consenting to release the documents of the withdrawing student.

STUDENT HEALTH
The school office does not have a clinic. Parents should bring special health problems to the attention of the teacher, the school health clerk, and office personnel. The responsibility of the health clerk is to provide first aid, administer medication, and to screen students complaining of illness. It is imperative that someone be available and prepared to pick up your student in the event of illness or accident. A sick student must be picked up within 30 minutes of the school contacting the parent or designated adult. The school does not have facilities to keep students who are contagious or are so ill that they cannot perform at school. STUDENT ACCIDENT REPORTS Accidents occurring during school hours or while on school grounds must be immediately reported to the Health Office by the teacher or supervisor. An accident report must be completed by the personnel who observed the accident on the same day as the accident occurred. The accident report is filed in the office and not given to parents. Students will receive care consistent with the severity of the injury. Minor abrasions and bumps will be cleaned and bandaged. Parents will be notified immediately when major accidents occur. Emergency personnel will be summoned in serious situations. ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL Generally, students do not need to take medicine during the school day. However, when a doctor prescribes a medication or over-thecounter preparation that must be taken at school, the following steps MUST be followed for the safety of the student and the other students in school. This policy is based on State Health Department rules/regulations, as well as the Colorado Nurse Practice Act. 1. All medicine given at school needs to have a medication request form signed by both a parent/guardian and a physician. It must provide information stating the name of the medication, the dosage, when the medication needs to be taken and why the medication is being given. These medication request forms are available at school. Remember that this policy applies to prescription medication and all over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, cough syrups, eye drops, ointments, etc. Exception: Students may carry and self-administer non-medicated cough drops. Medication must be provided by the parent in an individual pharmacy labeled bottle for the student or in the original overthe-counter container. All medication is to be kept in the Health Office. Students are not allowed to keep medication with them (such as in their lunch box, backpacks, etc.). Exception: Students may carry certain medications personally when a physician specifically authorizes this in writing. Those medications may include (1) inhalers necessary to control an upper respiratory condition; (2) auto-injector epinephrine pens for severe allergies; and (3) any other medications for serious health conditions which may require immediate intervention. Personnel trained to give medication are the only people at the school who may dispense medicine. All medication taken at school is recorded in a daily log and initialed by the school personnel giving the medication to the student. At the end of the school year, all unused medication will be returned to the parent or guardian. Parents are asked to please have the physician complete and/or fax a written permission for the school at the time the doctor prescribes any medication that needs to be administered at school. If necessary, two containers (one for school and one for home) can be requested at your pharmacy.

2. 3.

4. 5. 6.

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If parents/guardians want their child to keep medication with them, two requirements must be met: A. A letter from the doctor stating that it is necessary for the student to keep the medication with them. B. The parent/guardian must also provide a statement indicating they will accept all responsibility if their child, or any other student, becomes ill because of misuse of the medication. GUIDELINES FOR WHEN PARENTS SHOULD KEEP STUDENTS HOME DO NOT send a student to school when they have a fever. In general, if parents are unsure about whether or not to send their student to school, they should keep them home for a day. 1. 2. The following are guidelines to help parents determine whether or not they should send their child to school: Rashes- Students should be kept at home unless a written or faxed note is provided by a doctor stating the rash is not contagious or until the rash resolves on its own. 3. Vomiting or Diarrhea- Students should be kept at home until symptom- free for 24 hours 4. Fever of 100 Degrees or More- Keep a student home until fever free for 24 hours. 5. Strep Throat- The student may return after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment and when symptom free or a note from the doctor stating your child is not contagious. 6. Common Cold- Keep student at home if he/she is not feeling well, has a fever, has a lot of nasal discharge, or has a persistent cough. 7. Pink Eye (conjunctivitis with yellow or green drainage)- Student should be kept at home and treated until their physician feels the infection is not contagious. 8. Impetigo- Keep student home from school until their physician advises their return to school. 9. Chicken Pox- Student should remain home for approximately one week after symptoms appear OR until all papules (waterfilled lesions) are scabbed or crusted over. 10. Persistent Cough- Student should remain at home if the cough is persistent or would be disruptive to the class. 11. Untreated Drainage from Wound, Eye, or Ear Infections- Student should remain home from school until their physician advises their return. 12. Head Lice- when all lice and nits have been removed and hair/scalp has been treated with an approved shampoo (Nix/Ridd) and the child has a complete clothing change (coat, hat, underwear, too). Appropriate measures should be taken to avoid reinfestation at home (i.e. laundering of personal items and bedding, use of lice spray, vacuuming, ironing or heating objects in a hot dryer and/or placing items in a plastic bag for one-two weeks.)

SENDING STUDENTS TO THE OFFICE

Important things to try before sending a student to the clinic: Stomachache? Ask if they ate breakfast. Snacks may be available for students that that missed breakfast or are hungry. Offer water and a bathroom break. Headache? Dizzy? Have them lay their head down and rest their eyes for a few minutes, get a drink of water, or place a cool wet paper towel on the forehead or back of their neck. Offer water. Shortness of breath after/during PE or recess: Sit them up, breath slowly & deeply to catch their breath. Minor bumps, scrapes, scratches, pencil pokes, simple body aches, bug bites, paper cuts, minor colds or coughs, pimples, sunburn, piercing, old injuries, dry lips, broken glasses, lotion, and other mishaps? Generally, the parent can handle these conditions at home. Offer Band-aides, soap & water.

Common reasons for a student to visit the school office regarding their health:
Medications Snacks needed for medical conditions Injury An injury caused by another student, possible physical abuse, or self-inflicted marks to the body Mental health issues: such as concerns of depression or suicide occurring on school grounds Visible signs of injury: o significant swelling, bleeding, bruising, discoloration, o wounds such as deeper lacerations or burns, o fluid from ears or nose as a result of a fall or collision, o broken bone or deformity, o eye injuries, o chemical exposure. Illness o Signs or symptoms of illness o Concerns of communicable conditions o Worsening Condition 33-42

If you suspect a student could worsen on the way to the office, provide assistance or call the Health Office for assistance. If lifethreatening, call the office or dial 9-911.

PLAYGROUND RULES AND GUIDELINES

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. All games should be played with a concern for others using the playground. The playground equipment is to be used properly. If there are questions in use, consult with a teacher or playground supervisor. Tag and chase games are not permitted without teacher direction. Shoes must be worn at all times. Fighting or pretending to fight is not permitted. Toy weapons of any kind are not allowed on the school grounds. Additionally, toys that represent a combative nature should not be brought to school. Absolutely no throwing of rocks (no matter what size), bark, snow or sand.

HOMEWORK
Homework is a part of Community Leadership Academys academic program. Homework assignments are considered a part of a student's grade. Parents should expect 5 to 80 minutes of homework per night depending on their students grade level. If a problem arises due to excessive levels of homework over a long period of time, the teacher should be contacted to seek cause and remedies.

NO-RESCUE POLICY
It is our desire to train and educate self-reliant students. Thus, it is the policy of the school not to let students call home and ask their parents to bring in their homework or projects that they may have forgotten at home. We strongly encourage families to have a system in place that helps students manage their responsibilities in an efficient way. If a child should neglect his responsibilities it is important for him to learn from the natural and logical consequences so that next time he may have a more positive outcome.

ACTIVITIES/FIELD TRIP
We encourage teachers to supplement and enliven subject matter through the hands-on experience a field trip can provide. All field trips must have an educational value and relate to the curriculum. Field trips may not be scheduled during the months of April, May or June. Students are required to wear uniforms during all field trips. For any exceptions to this rule, see your Principal. Teachers are required to complete a packet of forms as appropriate, for field trips and other activities outside the normal class routine (e.g. special activities, tutoring, practices, meetings, concerts, plays, etc.) This process allows the support staff and administration to provide the best support possible to you, the students, and their parents. When planning a trip, teachers will use the district field trip guidelines. Teachers may use additional chaperones if there is adequate seating or transportation available or the trip warrants a higher supervision ratio. When requesting permission from parents to attend field trips, written permission must be secured. If written permission is not secured before the day of the trip, the teacher will contact the parent to secure permission. The teacher should document this permission by making an anecdotal note that includes the date, the time, and person who gave verbal consent. If permission is not obtained, the student will not attend the field trip. Paying for the Field Trip with a Community Leadership Academy Check: If you need to take payment for the Field Trip with you or pay in advance, you must submit your request for a check to be cut by filling out the Request For Funds form and attaching the approved activities request form and other pertinent information (e.g. copy of the student fund deposits). The Business Office writes checks every Thursday. Thus, check requests must be received by the Business Office no later than noon on the Wednesday of the week you need the check. Paying for the Field Trip with a Community Leadership Academy Credit Card: Some organizations will accept payment via credit card at the time of the activity. It is your responsibility to check this out in advance if you wish to pay using Community Leadership Academy credit card. If using the credit card, let the Business Office know at least one week in advance to ensure the availability of the card. You must then sign the card out and will be responsible for any charges incurred on the account while the card is in your possession. All receipts must be turned in with the card or you will be held personally responsible for the charges incurred. Requests for cards made at the last minute may not be honored. Notify the Office about Field Trips at least three (3) days in advance so that staff has adequate time to prepare medications. On the afternoon before the field trip, stop by the Office to make arrangements to pick up the supplies for the field trip. In some cases, health care plans, procedures, and special medications need to be reviewed. Medications can be released only to a Community Leadership Academy employee who will then assume the responsibility for carrying and administering the medication during the field trip. The exception is when a parent or guardian goes on the field trip and chooses to administer 34-42

the medication to their student. All medications and health related information must be returned to the Office when you arrive back to school.

MOVIES / VIDEOS
Community Leadership Academy recognizes that the showing of movies to students enhances their educational experience. Movies should be of the highest quality and content and appropriate for age and/or grade level. The term movies does not include instructional videos used as a central element of the curriculum. The use of movies shall correlate with and enhance the educational program. A request for classroom movie/video showing must pre-approved by your principal prior to any scheduling or viewing. When showing a movie which requires parental permission, staff shall notify parents/legal guardians in writing at least five (5) days in advance. Such notification shall include: The name of movie and its rating Rationale for showing the movie The description of an alternative activity if permission is not granted by the parent/legal guardian A permission form which requires the signature of a parent/legal guardian and which is to be returned to the teacher The Code of Self-Regulation of the Motion Picture Association establishes the following ratings: G - All ages admitted. General audiences. PG - All ages admitted. Parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for pre-teenagers. PG-13 - Parents are strongly cautioned to give special guidance for children under 13. Some material may be inappropriate for young children. The following rating schedule per grade level is permitted for showing movies at Community Leadership Academy: G rated movies in PK-8 and PG rated movies in 6-8 with signed parental permission slip. The chart below shall guide the selection of movies at Community Leadership Academy: Grade Level G PG PG-13 PK - 8 No prior permission is required. Prior permission is required. May not be shown at these grade levels. R May not be shown at these grade levels.

CLASSROOM ANIMALS
No animals of any kind are allowed to be kept in classrooms.

BICYCLES
Permission for a student to ride a bicycle to school must be written by a parent or guardian. Students must walk their bikes on schools grounds and sidewalks. Roller blades, skates, skateboards, scooters, or other similar items are not to be brought to school without permission. When this rule is broken, the item will be confiscated and held in the office until claimed by a parent.

TOYS/VIDEO GAMES/ELECTRONICS
Toys of any kind that do not contribute to the educational process are not to be brought to school, except for a classroom sharing activity. When this rule is broken, the item will be confiscated and held in the office until claimed by a parent. Specific items may be permitted on field trips at the discretion of the teacher. CLA staff is not responsible for the damage to or loss of any student's personal item brought to school.

CLOSED CAMPUS
Community Leadership Academy is a closed campus. Students are not allowed to leave during the day without a parent/guardian signing them out in the office.

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VISITORS & SECURITY

All visitors to the school are required to stop in the school office before proceeding into the building. All visitors must sign in and specify the reason for their visit and whom they are visiting. The office staff will issue a numbered visitor badge and mark that number next to their name. When leaving parents must sign out and return the badge. Visitors will be given a visitor badge.

VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers must fill out a CLA volunteer information form in the school office prior to being able to volunteer for the school. Upon completion of this information, volunteers will be notified of their ability to help CLA. Volunteers must stop in the school office before proceeding to their volunteer assignment. Volunteers will be given a volunteer badge.

SPECIALS CLASSES
Art, Music, and Physical Education will be taught to all students in Kindergarten through eighth grades as consistent with our CoreKnowledge curriculum and Colorado State Standards. If a student needs to be excused from the Physical Education program for short periods of time due to illness or injury, a note of explanation must be sent to the Physical Education teacher.

SPECIAL EDUCATION
CLA provides services to students with special education needs.

GRADE LEVEL PLANNING

These meetings are held a minimum of twice a week.

LESSON PLANS AND WEEKLY PLANS & YEAR-LONG PLANS

All grade level year-long plans with weekly details must be maintained on the school server: My Computer Instructors on 'Mail Server (cla-srv01)'(J:) Instructors must have copies of daily lesson plans on your desk as you teach. School Administrators may check for these when visiting for observations.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE LIVE ABOVE THE LINE

Every student deserves a quality educational experience, and no student has the right to prevent a teacher from teaching or students from learning. CLA has adopted Character Traits that serve as the foundation for the code of conduct for students. One of the most important lessons for students to learn is how to respect authority, respect the rights of others, respect the teaching and learning process, and take care of their own and others property. Students will not be allowed to disrupt the education of other students. Although it is necessary to have school and classroom rules, CLA will not emphasize do's and don'ts but will guide students to a proper response to any given situation. CLA will set discipline standards that are enforced fairly and consistently (recognizing that age, experience, and other factors may require individualized attention).

Because the classroom teacher is the one who works closest with the children, he or she carries the majority of the responsibility for maintaining discipline. It is important that the teacher work closely with the parents in these matters and that communications are open and honest. It is of utmost importance that the teacher and parents work together as a team in discipline matters.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SYSTEM

Community Leadership Academy uses the Positive Behavior Support (PBS) Program to assure a safe and positive school environment. The PBS system includes discipline guidelines (Class I, II, III), character traits (Leadership, Respect, Self-Discipline, Integrity and Compassion), encouraging these behaviors (incentives - S.O.A.R. Slips, encouraging awards, verbal 36-42

acknowledgements & displays), procedures for discouraging rule violating procedures (RtI, behavior plans), and monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of PBS. All students are expected to behave respectfully to both adults and peers in words and actions. Generally, the noise level in the classrooms and the halls should be maintained at a level of respect for the others in the building. Planned activities that require livelier student interaction should be conducted with the same respect. All students are expected to arrive to class on time and follow the guidelines and expectations delineated in the Student Handbook. Teachers are responsible for the entire environment in the classroom. They must provide effective supervision. Students are to be held accountable for their behavior with teachers and other supervising adults.

CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT
Philosophical Beliefs and Student Expectations Our philosophy is grounded in the following beliefs: 1. All students deserve to be educated in a safe and welcoming environment. 2. All students are responsible for the decisions they make and need to be held accountable for their actions.

3. All students can change and improve behavior. 4. Students deserve an opportunity to wipe their slates clean through long-term positive behavior. Our expectation is that students behave in ways which foster an atmosphere that is safe, conducive to the learning process, and free from unnecessary disruptions. Specific student expectations based on Community Leadership Academys Character Traits are:
Self Discipline looks like Doing what needs to be done, when it needs to be done, as well as it can be done. Refocusing yourself when your attention wanders. Finding healthy ways to express your emotions. Making wise choices about food, hygiene and your overall health. Setting and meeting your personal goals. Compassion looks like Believing in everyones right to learn while creating a safe environment. Forgiving yourself and others. Understanding the needs and differences of those around us. Helping and encouraging yourself and others. Practicing selflessness and non-violence. Integrity looks like Making smart decisions. Being kind, honest and courteous. Taking ownership of your actions. Striving for academic excellence. Taking pride in yourself, your work and your community. Leadership looks like Using your strengths to guide and support your team. Focusing on the positive and learning from the negative. Following through on all commitments. Modeling behaviors you want others to practice. Having the confidence to take risks. Respect looks like Protecting self, environment, school rules and property. Treating others the way you would like to be treated. Honoring beliefs and opinions of others. Using considerate and courteous language. Actively listening and engaging in class activities. 37-42

CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT - INSTRUCTION

CLA has adopted Quantum Learning and all instructors must follow its design. Quantum Learning creates an empowering atmosphere of trust, safety and a sense of belonging. Establishing engaging, focused traditions creates a sense of belonging and safety and is an effective strategy for classroom management, focusing attention and motivating students to increase participation in learning. Each school day begins with a morning routine and purposeful first statement. These routines are designed to immediately focus students and create resourceful learning states. Quantum Learning creates a supportive physical environment that enhances and reinforces learning. Ideal learning environments include proper lighting, purposeful color, positive affirmation posters, plants, props and music. These elements are easy to include in one's classroom, and students enjoy learning more in a comfortable setting. The key is to create empowering school environments that build engaging and dynamic communities of learning. The results are enhanced teacher capacity and increased student achievement. The Quantum Learning framework for student learning is expressed in 5 Tenets of Learning: Everything Speaks: Everything, from surroundings and tone of voice to distribution of materials, conveys an important message about learning. Everything is On Purpose: Everything we do has an intended purpose. Experience Before Label: Students make meaning and transfer new content into long-term memory by connecting to existing schema. Learning is best facilitated when students experience the information in some aspect before they acquire labels for what is being learned. Acknowledge Every Effort: Acknowledgment of each student's effort encourages learning and experimentation. If It's Worth Learning, It's Worth Celebrating!: Celebration provides feedback regarding progress and increases positive emotional associations with the learning. The QL Design Frame that drives the presentation and facilitation of content was formulated from many years of research on effective delivery methods and is the structural frame upon which content is designed to ensure student mastery. The elements are: EnrollUse teacher moves that capture the interest, curiosity and attention of the students. ExperienceCreate or elicit a common experience, or tap into common knowledge to which all learners can relate. Experience before Label creates schema on which to build new content. Learn & LabelPresent, sequence and define the main content. Students learn labels, thinking skills and academic strategies. Students add new content to their existing schema. DemonstrateGive students an opportunity to demonstrate and apply their new learning. Review and ReflectUse a variety of effective, multi-sensory review strategies and empower students to process their new content through reflection. CelebrationAcknowledge the learning. It cements the content and adds a sense of completion.

CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT DCOR

All Curriculum Delivery Instruments (CDIs) need to be displayed in each classroom on their specific color: Reading Green Writing Yellow Math Blue History/Science Purple ELL Red 38-42

The following items also need to be displayed: Emergency Packet American Flag Colorado State Standards and/or Benchmarks 2-8 -Reading, Writing, Math Art -Art Music -Music PE -Physical Education Colorado English Language Development Standards All classrooms, as designated Classroom Constitution Poster CLA Mission Poster Character Traits Poster Class schedule

CLASSROOM CLEAN UP
Each classroom is responsible for ensuring a safe and clean environment throughout the day. Through this activity students are taught self-reliance, self-discipline, care of the environment, responsibility and many other skills. This involves seeing to it that all trash is picked up, desks are sanitized, and chairs are stacked. Employees are responsible to disinfect desks and tables in their teaching environment as frequently as necessary, but at least twice a day. Due to health and environmental concerns, no food items or drinks are allowed in classrooms without administrative permission.

GRADING SCALE
Community Leadership Academy will be using the following grading scale for Kindergarten through 8th grade: A (90-100) Exceptional Achievement B (80-89) Above Average Achievement C (70-79) Average Achievement D (60-69) Below Average Achievement F (Below 60) Unsatisfactory Achievement

REPORT CARDS/PARENT CONFERENCES

Community Leadership Academy grading is on a quarter system. Therefore, there are four separate grading periods. Upon conclusion of the second and fourth quarters, the teachers will issue a semester grade. The appropriate principal will review all report cards. There are two mandatory Parent/Teacher conferences during the school year. Parents/Guardians are required to attend 1st and 3rd quarter conferences. At the end of the 2nd and 4th quarters, report cards need to be submitted to the secretary for mailing.

GRADE BOOKS
All instructional staff are expected to use Engrade for their grade book. The grade book is a legal document. Periodically save all files on your hard drive, a diskette or CD, as well as print a hard copy and keep it in a safe, secure place at all times. Turn in a hard copy of all grade books to your Principal at the end of the school year. Grade books may be audited by the administration throughout the year.

STUDENTS GRADING PAPERS FERPA

Students shall not correct or grade each other's schoolwork when the corrections or grades will be subsequently reported or provided to the teacher. Schoolwork includes all student work, including homework, tests, papers, classroom assignment, etc. Schoolwork may be corrected/graded by students if the identity of the student whose work is being corrected/graded is protected or the student's parent/guardian has consented in writing to corrective/grading by fellow students.

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Students are encouraged to engage in informal self-assessments as they study and attempt to solve problems, monitor their own progress and improve their learning.

CUMULATIVE FILES
Student cumulative records (CUMs) are permanent records and much of the information they contain cannot be replaced if lost. It is vital that we use them with utmost care. Follow these procedures when dealing with CUM files: A. You must check in and out CUM files with the secretary B. Examine CUMs in the main office only C. Ensure CUMs and any copies are not left where students and others can read them. Most of the information is considered private and confidential.

STUDENT PROMOTION AND RETENTION (K 8)

Retaining a student in any particular grade shall be a recommendation based upon the professional judgment of a review committee whose composition will be the student's teacher(s), the principal, and may include any other school personnel the school principal deems appropriate. The parents shall be requested to participate in the review process. The review committee shall consider the following criteria: 1. Academic Achievement - The following are examples of areas that may be considered: the child has a grade point average of D or lower; is functioning below grade level in most academic areas; falls below the 33 percentile on a school-approved standardized achievement test; has not passed 80% of the grade level objectives. 2. Age - The child is younger than the majority of his/her classmates. 3. Attendance - The child has a history of non-attendance and/or extreme tardiness. 4. Attitude Toward Retention - The child's and parents' attitudes toward retention have been considered. 5. Behavior - The child's behavior is considered as symptomatic of an inability to function at grade level. 6. Emotional Stability - The child exhibits no serious emotional condition. 7. Intelligence - The child is functioning within the normal range of intelligence. 8. Maturity - The child is generally immature in his/her social relationships. 9. Physical Development - The child's physical development suggests immaturity when compared to his/her peer group. It is recognized that few children meet all of the above criteria; however, the greater the number of criteria present, the more advisable the retention. The following procedures shall have been followed as a prerequisite to the retention of K-8 students. 1. During the 1st quarter, the parent/guardian and principal are to be notified of the child's school problems by the classroom teacher. If school problems develop during successive quarters, the teacher and principal will develop an alternate timeline to accomplish the prerequisites for retention. During the 2nd quarter, the parent/guardian and principal are to be notified of the child's continued school deficiencies and the possibility of retention. A written record of such notification will be kept by the teacher. During the 3rd quarter, a review of the student's progress will be made by the principal, teacher and other appropriate staff. The parent/guardian will be requested to attend this review conference. (The conference may be the parent/teacher conferences held during this quarter.) Teachers must complete a Retention packet for any students you are considering retaining prior to the completion of third quarter. By the end of the 4th quarter, the review committee shall hold a summative conference at which time all appropriate input will be reviewed. If the decision is to retain the student, educational recommendations for the following year will be made. The parent/guardian shall be provided with a written copy of the principal's decision and a copy shall be placed in the child's cumulative records. A parent/guardian who objects to having the child retained shall be informed of the appeal process. (a) The parents shall submit a written request for a hearing to the Executive Director. (b) A hearing shall be held by the Executive Director to review the principal's recommendations for retention. The parents/guardians, principal, teachers, and other appropriate staff shall be asked to attend. (c) The parents will be informed in writing of the decision of the Executive Director.

2. 3.

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ATTENDANCE POWER SCHOOL

The classroom teacher is responsible for taking daily attendance. This task is critical to ensuring students have arrived at school safely. Parents rely on the school to notify them of an absence as soon as possible. Teachers must take attendance immediately following the school-wide morning assembly. You are responsible for keeping accurate records. Tardy/Attendance procedures: Teachers only mark the absent students in Infinite Campus 40-42

 Tardy students MUST have a pass from the office if they do not, send them to the office to get one o Office staff will adjust the attendance records

HALLWAY PASSES:
To promote a secure and disruption free environment, all teachers are discouraged from allowing students to go to other locations in the building during instruction time. If a student must go outside the classroom, a hallway pass is required. Hallway passes should not to be given out during the first ten minutes and the last ten minutes of class.

5-8 RESTROOM PROCEDURES:

Students in grades 5-8 use the restroom on an as-needed basis versus a whole class visit. Teachers may only send one student from a class at a time to the restroom. Prior to leaving the classroom, students need to sign a restroom log sheet to track restroom visits, including the time they leave and the time they return. Students must take a bathroom pass and hang it on the holder no more than a total of three students should be in the actual stall area of the restroom.

STUDENT BEHAVIOR REFERRALS TO THE PRINCIPAL

A behavior referral should be completed and turned into the Principal when the behavior is illegal, life threatening, or chronic. When the behavior is chronic, the teacher should contact the Principal after classroom alternatives have been exhausted. Chronic behavior involves frequent classroom disruption with previous interventions attempted with parents and the student. Additional strategies will be discussed and implemented, if necessary, before more drastic action is taken. Referrals may be returned if there is insufficient or incomplete documentation and/or teacher action; there is no parental contact; or the offense does not warrant the Principals intervention. Once the referral is submitted, the consequences are applied at the discretion of the Principal. Progressive consequences will occur in a timely manner based upon school guidelines and policies (class of offense), and the disciplinary record of the student. BEHAVIORS LEVEL I Level I behaviors are minor rule violations that will result in an immediate verbal redirect with possible consequences. Documentation of offence is required for every behavior and consequence every time one occurs. Gum or candy = $2.00 fine Dress Code Unsafe Activity (running, play fighting, tripping, throwing objects) Littering Electronic equipment/toys Disruptive and/or uncooperative behavior LEVEL II Level II behaviors are more serious in nature. Level II behaviors will result in an immediate logical consequence. Level II behaviors can be handled by the supervising adult and the Principal. Habitual Level I behavior (3-5 times) Unsafe Activity with Intent to Harm Disrespectful language and/or profanity Cheating Inappropriate gestures or actions Spitting Intentional Destruction of Property LEVEL III Fighting, harassment, and verbal abuse violate the dignity, well-being, and safety of another person. These behaviors will not be tolerated and may result in suspension or expulsion from the school. The offending student must be escorted to the office immediately by an adult. Habitual Level II behavior (3-5 times) Stealing CONSEQUENCES/INTERVENTIONS Students who engage in Level I behaviors will be asked to identify the inappropriate behavior and describe the appropriate replacement behavior by using the Verbal Redirect questions: What are you doing? What should you be doing? Lets do it! or Show me! Students may receive a mild consequence designed to discourage the inappropriate behavior from occurring in the future. The supervising adult should handle the situation. Documentation of each offence and subsequent consequence is required.

Students who engage in Level II behaviors will be referred to the Principal corrective action. After consulting with the appropriate school personnel, the Principal will issue appropriate consequences and facilitate corrective action designed to help the student improve his/her school behavior. All students referred to the office must be accompanied by a Behavior Reflection Sheet (BRS). The BRS is required to be signed by the supervising adult, office personnel (if applicable), student, and parent. The form must be returned with the parent signature when the student returns to school. Consequences for Level II behaviors may include but are not limited to alternative setting, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, restitution and/or a behavior contract. Students who engage in Level III behaviors will be referred to the office personnel for immediate corrective action. After consulting with the parents/guardians and appropriate school personnel, the principal will issue appropriate consequences and facilitate corrective action designed to help the student improve his/her school behavior. Consequences for Level III behaviors may include but are not limited to suspension or expulsion. 41-42

Fighting/assault/ physical aggression Vandalism Possession of a weapon on school grounds Possession/under the influence of an illegal substance Intimidation/ verbal threats Harassment/sexual harassment Verbal abuse/directed profanity Serious disrespect toward another person/adult

CLASSROOM EMERGENCIES
(serious behavior violations) Call the office or the Principal Identify yourself and room number State the nature of the crisis or serious offense (i.e. combative situation, injury, uncontrollable disruption, etc.) The office will send assistance immediately

STUDENT DRESS CODE

All staff is expected to assist in the enforcement of the dress code: The responsibility to make academics the primary focus obligates Community Leadership Academy to prevent anything which may distract from the education of students. An environment in which students, staff, parents and community members feel safe is of the utmost importance. To this end, a uniform policy has been adopted and will be enforced. When a parent registers their child at Community Leadership Academy, it indicates their acceptance of the uniform policy. Students not in uniform may be sent home and further disciplinary action may be taken. Repeat offenders will be considered in defiance of authority. Community Leadership Academy has established the following: Student uniforms are an essential and distinctive facet of the CLA academic culture. Wearing uniforms impact the school positively by: o Fostering a distinct and positive CLA Appearance o Decreasing distractions o Increasing wardrobe equity o Creating comfort/familiarity in formal attire o Supporting easy identification of visitors or strangers. Uniforms are mandatory for all CLA students. Wearing uniforms is intended to promote safety, improve discipline, and enhance the overall learning environment. Proper wear of the uniform also shows pride in oneself and in CLA. Students are expected to be in uniform throughout the school day. Students are expected to be in uniform upon arrival in the morning or when returning to school. After 4:00 p.m., students on campus may be out of uniform, but must still be modestly and appropriately dressed. Uniforms must be worn on field trips unless the administration approves otherwise. Uniforms are not required for any evening or weekend activities unless specified by the administration or the activity supervisor. Parent and Staff Responsibilities Parents have the responsibility to ensure that their students arrive at school in proper uniform. Within the school, the dress code will be enforced by the classroom teacher, other staff members and the CLA administration. The administration will make the final decisions regarding uniform issues.

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