KIPP AMP - Family Handbook - 2011-2012

FAMILY HANDBOOK
1224 Park Place, 4th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Tel: 718-943-3710 Fax: 718-774-3673 www.kippamp.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS WHO WE ARE KIPP MISSION OUR BEGINNING KIPP AMP ACADEMY CREDO KIPP COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE FAMILY INVOLVEMENT SOME OF WHAT EVERY KIPPSTER LEARNS DURING WEEK ONE KIPP AMP ACADEMY STAFF CONTACT LIST GENERAL INFORMATION ENROLLMENT WHO SHOULD I ASK? ATTENDANCE FOOD SERVICES TRANSPORTATION FIELD TRIPS COMMUNICATING WITH STAFF AND TEACHERS CELL PHONE USAGE TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNET USAGE PERSONAL BELONGINGS STUDENT DRESS CODE ORDERING UNIFORMS CAFETERIA/FOOD POLICY INDEPENDENT READING & BOOK LOSS POLICY GENERAL STUDENT SUPPLIES HEALTH AND SAFETY IMMUNIZATIONS REPORTING A CHILDS ILLNESS 1 3 3 3 3 4 6 7 9 10 10 10 11 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 14 15 15 15 16 19 19 19
Every KIPP student will develop the character and academic skills necessary to succeed in high school and college, to be self-sufficient, successful, and happy in the competitive world, and to build a better tomorrow for themselves and us all.
ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL HOURS MEDICATION COUNSELING SERVICES CALENDAR AND SCHEDULE CALENDAR SCHOOL DAY SCHEDULE SCHOOL CLOSINGS (BAD WEATHER) SUMMER SCHOOL SATURDAY SCHOOL VOLUNTARY AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ACADEMICS WORK HARD HOMEWORK CHEATING/PLAGIARISM REPORT CARDS AND GRADING PROMOTION TO THE NEXT GRADE STANDARDIZATION TESTING SPECIAL EDUCATION CAPOEIRA AT KIPP AMP KIPP AMP PAYCHECK SYSTEM CODE OF CONDUCT
19 19 20 21 21 24 24 24 24 25 26 26 26 27 27 28 28 29 30 36
WHO WE ARE
MISSION
KIPP AMP Academys mission is to teach our students to develop the academic and character skills necessary to succeed in high school and college, to be self-sufficient, successful, and happy in the competitive world, and to build a better tomorrow for themselves and us all.
OUR BEGINNING-7/7/05
In 2005, KIPP AMP Academy opened in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, serving approximately 70 fifth graders. This year, KIPP AMP Academy will serve approximately 300 students in fifth through eighth grade. KIPP AMP Academy is part of KIPP NYC, which currently serves approximately 2,000 students and alumni at four middle schools (in Harlem, Crown Heights, and the South Bronx), a high school serving all four middle schools (in Harlem), and three elementary schools. From the beginning, KIPP has focused on developing academic and character skills. Since day one, the key to this has been the amazing teamwork of families, students, and teachers all working together.
KIPP AMP ACADEMY CREDO #1:

If there is a problem, we look for a solution. If there is a better way, we try to find it. If we need help, we ask. If a teammate needs help, we give.
KIPP AMP ACADEMY CREDO #2:

At KIPP, we believe. We believe in the creation of inspired lives produced by desire, discipline, and dedication. We are not frightened by the challenges of reality but believe that we can change our world and our place within it. We work, plan, create, and dream. Our talent, character, and integrity will be the tools we need to build a better tomorrow. We believe that we can take this place, this time, and the people here and build a better place, a better time, and a better people. As a team and a family, we will either find a way or make one.
- Inspired by Providence St. Mel School Motto
KIPP COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

Students Commitment: I will arrive at KIPP every day by 7:25 A.M. (Mon. - Fri.). I will remain at KIPP until 4:00 P.M. (Monday Thursday) and until 2:30 PM on Friday. I will come to KIPP on mandated Saturdays at 9:00 A.M. and remain until 1:00 P.M. I will attend KIPP Summer Academy for three weeks in July. I will always work, think, and behave in the best way I know how and I will do whatever it takes for me and my fellow students to learn. This also means that I will complete all my homework every night. I will call my teachers if I have a problem with the homework or a problem with coming to school, and I will raise my hand and ask questions in class if I do not understand something. I will read daily. I will always make myself available to my family and teachers and to address any concerns they might have. If I make a mistake, I will tell the truth to my teachers and accept responsibility for my actions. I will always behave so as to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom. This also means that I will always listen to all my KIPP teammates and give everyone my respect. I will follow the KIPP AMP dress code. I am responsible for my own behavior, and I will follow the teachers directions at all times. Failure to adhere to these commitments can cause me to lose various KIPP privileges and can lead to returning to my home school. Parents/Guardians Commitment: We will make sure our child arrives at KIPP every day by 7:25 a.m. (Mon. - Fri.). We will make arrangements so our child can remain at KIPP until 4:00 P.M. (Mon Thurs.) and 2:30 P.M. on Friday. We will make arrangements for our child to come to KIPP on mandated Saturdays at 9:00 A.M. and remain until 1:00 P.M. We will make arrangements for our child to stay for detention and/or tutoring as necessary from 4:00-5:00 P.M. We will ensure that our child attends KIPP Summer Academy for three weeks in July. We will always help our child in the best way we know how and we will do whatever it takes for him/her to learn. This also means that we will check our child's homework every night, let him/her call a homework buddy or the teacher if there is a problem with the homework, and try to read with him/her every night. We will always make sure our child reads daily. We will always make ourselves available to our children, the school, and any concerns they might have. This also means that if our child is going to miss school because of an emergency, we will notify the KIPP AMP staff as soon as possible, and we will read carefully all the papers that the school sends home to us. We will attend meetings with teachers and administrators as necessary. We will allow our child to go on KIPP field trips with the school. We will make sure our child follows the KIPP AMP dress code. We understand that our child must follow the KIPP rules so as to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom. We, not the school, are responsible for the behavior and actions of our child. Failure to adhere to these commitments can cause my child to lose various KIPP privileges and can lead to my child returning to his/her home school.
KIPP AMP Staff Commitment: We will arrive at KIPP every day by 7:15 A.M. (Monday-Friday). We will remain at KIPP until 4:30 P.M. (Monday Friday). We will come to KIPP on appropriate Saturdays at 8:45 A.M. and remain until 1:15 P.M. We will teach at KIPP during the three-week Summer Academy Session. We will always teach in the best way we know how and we will do whatever it takes for our students to learn. We will always make ourselves available by phone, email, or in person to students and families, and will respond respectfully to any concerns they might have. We will always protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom. We will prepare engaging and rigorous lessons with meaningful homework assignments and frequent assessments. We will actively seek, incorporate and respond well to feedback in order to create exceptional lessons, materials, and classes. We will treat our students character development with the same importance that we give to their academic growth We will use data from tests and assignments to make sure every child succeeds. We will provide individual and small group tutoring to ensure our students succeed. Failure to adhere to these commitments can lead to our removal from KIPP.
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT
As already mentioned, one of the keys to the success of KIPP AMP Academy is the strong working relationship between parents, teachers, and children. The key to this is effective communication. It is for this reason that all KIPP AMP Academy teachers give out their phone numbers, and it is also the reason that we have an open door policy to families regarding school visits. In addition to phone conversations, school visits, and home visits by staff, KIPP AMP Academy also has quarterly conferences between parents, teachers and children. Below are some additional ways that parents have been involved in the past. Please feel free to suggest any other ideas you might have.
WHAT ARE A FEW WAYS I CAN GET INVOLVED?

Our families are always asking for ways to get involved. Below are a few ways in which you can do so. Chaperone and participate in our in-school and out-of-school activities Get involved in parent-literacy activities with your child Join our parent events Attend student in-class performances (poetry slams, in class speeches and presentations, cultural celebrations, and others, depending on specific classes) Attend awards ceremonies Chaperone school trips Patrol after-school dismissal to ensure safety of all of our children Attend parent meetings Stop by the school to sit in on classes (no amount of time is too short) Invite us to your homes for home visits Inform us of community events or activities we should be participating in Carpool with other families Attend parent-teacher conferences Cheer, support, and possibly coach our sports teams And, of course, we are always available to sample delicious home-cooked meals that your child rants and raves about Please feel free to contact Ms. Killins at 718-943-3710 ext. 4456, or Paul Byrne at 718-943-3710, ext. 4003, to discuss family involvement.
SOME OF WHAT EVERY KIPPSTER LEARNS DURING WEEK ONE

We are committed to reinforcing common standards of character and academic performance to create a sense of team and family. We believe that these ideas serve as a great foundation to be carried beyond the four years at KIPP AMP Academy. During the first week of summer school, every KIPPster learns various songs, sayings and acronyms to reinforce our mission. We constantly refer to these throughout their time at KIPP. Please review and help reinforce these standards with your child in and out of school.
I - Be Nice. Work Hard. II- We are a TEAM AND A FAMILY. III - This is the room that has the kids who want to learn to read more books to build a better tomorrow. IV- Climb the mountain to college. V - SSLANT (Smile , Sit Up, Listen, Ask and Answer Questions, Nod your head, Track the Speaker)
Read Baby Read B-O-O-K-S, B-O-O-K-S, B-O-O-K-S Bookland! (bang, bang, clap, bang, bang, clap) Youve gotta read, baby read Youve gotta read, baby, read. The more you read, the more you know. Knowledge is power and power is freedom and I want it, Yes, I want it. (bang, bang, clap, bang, bang, clap) With your newfound skills, youll pay all your bills, youll travel far and near through skies stormy and clear. Youve gotta read, baby, read. Youve gotta read, baby, read. (bang, bang, clap, bang, bang, clap) You have the desire, now you know youll never tire. In your pursuit to college, all you need is more knowledge. 2-0-2-3 (or 2022, or 2021, or 2020) 2023 (see above ) sooooooo, Youve gotta read, baby read! Youve gotta read, baby, read!
NON-NEGOTIABLE EXPECTATIONS FOR KIPP AMP ACADEMY STUDENTS

All KIPPsters receive general non-negotiable expectations. Please reinforce these with your child. 1) Adherence to the KIPP Commitment to Excellence 2) Adherence to the KIPP Credo: a. b. c. d. If there is a problem, we look for a solution. If there is a better way, we try to find it. If we need help, we ask. If a teammate needs help, we give.
3) Be in KIPP AMP uniform at all times. [See page 14 for additional uniform policy detail] 4) Be on-task and present at all times during class. While anyone is speaking, students must track the speaker. This means that students will always have their eyes and brains on that person. Students should be sitting properly during class time. a. 5) Be organized and prepared for all classes. Every KIPPster should have at least 3 sharpened pencils with erasers, a pen, and paper in their notebooks every day. Work should always be completed and presented neatly. The KIPP heading should be thoroughly completed for all assignments and always include first and last name. All papers should be kept neatly in school designated binders. 6) KIPPsters must complete HW daily. Homework should be written neatly in the agenda provided by the school.
7) Students must have an independent reading book with them at all times to assign themselves when they are done early or have additional time. 8) Respond appropriately to all questions. Tone, reactions and non-verbal actions matter. 9) Walk quietly and orderly while inside any building. 10) We must maintain integrity by doing the right thing without being told. KIPPsters are KIPPsters in and out of school. Our actions once we leave the building matter just as much as they do inside of the school building.
STAFF CONTACT LIST

Byrne, Paul Chambers, Dana Chandler, Jamison Chiaravalloti, John Michael Edwards, Latasha Exley, David Facey, Chris Farrell, Tiffany Fernandez, Emily Johnson, Amirah Joseph, Natalie Killins, Tokinma Levin, David Lewis, Debon McIntosh, Jonathan Michals, Anastasia Moore, Jamila Palmer, Alecia Phillips, Shaka Pinheiro, Fabiano (Sabia) Ribeiro, Frank Raji-Greig, Elizabeth Rubin, Josh Shakarian, Katrina Smith, Nicole Speer, Erin Stringer, Danielle Telford, Tyler Toussaint, Ashley Unger Dvorchik, Blake Vance, Quinton Walker, Grant Zangrilli, Autumn pbyrne@kippamp.org dchambers@kippnyc.org jchandler@kippamp.org jmchiaravalloti@kippamp.org ledwards@kippamp.org dexley@kippamp.org cfacey@kippamp.org tfarrell@kippamp.org efernandez@kippamp.org ajohnson@kippamp.org njoseph@kippamp.org tkillins@kippamp.org dlevin@kippnyc.org dlewis@kippamp.org jmcintosh@kippamp.org amichals@kippamp.org jmoore@kippamp.org apalmer@kippamp.org sphillips@kippamp.org fpinheiro@kippamp.org fribeiro@kippamp.org egreig@kippamp.org jrubin@kippamp.org kshakarian@kippamp.org nsmith@kippamp.org espeer@kippamp.org dstringer@kippamp.org ttelford@kippamp.org atoussaint@kippamp.org bungerdvorchik@kippamp.org qvance@kippnyc.org gwalker@kippamp.org azangrilli@kippamp.org 917-263-1539
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Dean of Students 5 Grade Non-Fiction Studies Teacher Music Teacher 8th Grade Writing Teacher Director of Operations 7th Grade Reading Teacher 8th Grade History Teacher 7th Grade Math Teacher 5th Grade Reading Teacher Office Manager 6 Grade Non-Fiction Studies Teacher Counselor KIPP Co-Founder & Superintendent Principal 7 & 8 Grade Learning Specialist 5th Grade Math Teacher 5th Grade Writing Teacher 7th Grade Writing Teacher 6th Grade Learning Specialist Capoeira Teacher 5 Grade Learning Specialist Dean of Teaching & Learning 8th Grade Science Teacher 6th Grade Math Teacher Capoeira Teacher 8th Grade Math Teacher 6th Grade Reading Teacher 6th Grade Writing Teacher 7th Grade History 7th Grade Science Teacher
Ex. Dir. of KIPP NYC Elem. & Mid. Schools
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917-771-3063 917-684-7533 917-686-8772 917-263-0867 917-858-0008 917-263-1516 304-826-6246 917-805-2363 917-771-3573 917-684-8074 917-684-7583 917-806-0673 917-570-9618 417-848-6938 732-598-2204 917-701-6817 917-701-2059 917-684-8601 917-653-9339 917-263-1526 917-263-1523 718-943-3710 718-640-5173 646-420-3424 585-755-1690 773-354-2582 917-263-1543 917-684-8690 917-263-1510 917-721-5809 347-618-9255 917-776-2020
8th Grade Reading Dean of Teaching & Learning
GENERAL INFORMATION
ENROLLMENT
Every year, beginning in the first week of January, KIPP AMP Academy will begin accepting applications for our fifth eighth grades for the following year (please note that very few students are admitted after the 5th grade). In accordance with our state law, admissions preference will be granted to siblings as first priority and students receiving free or reduced lunch and/or living in District 17 as a 2nd priority. The lottery will be held in April.
DOCUMENTS NEEDED BY THE SCHOOL

Upon enrolling at KIPP AMP Academy, the following documents must be submitted for each student to the Office Manager:
Registration Form Emergency Form Copy of Birth Certificate Proof of Address (Copy of a Phone Bill, Electric Bill, Lease, Gas Bill, etc.) Immunization Records/Health Records IEP (individualized Educational Plan)/504 Accommodations (if applicable) Home Language Survey (if applicable)
WHO SHOULD I ASK?

At times, you may have questions about KIPP AMP Academy. Below is a quick list of common questions and to whom you can ask for more information.
Questions My childs grades or the content of a class STAFF MEMBER The teacher who teaches the class The Grade Chair for your childs grade Autumn Zangrilli or Elizabeth Raji-Greig, Dean of Teaching and Learning Amirah Johnson, Office Manager Teacher whose initials are on the paycheck Amirah Johnson, Office Manager Latasha Edwards, Director of Operations Cookies Childrens Dept. Store, 1-877-942-6654 Tokinma Killins, Counselor Paul Byrne, Dean of Students Jonathan McIntosh, 7th & 8th Grade Learning Specialist Shaka Phillips, 6th Grade Learning Specialist Frank Ribeiro, 5th Grade Learning Specialist Amirah Johnson, Office Manager Debon Lewis, Principal Latasha Edwards, Director of Operations
Lunch Forms, Emergency Forms, Immunization Records, Attendance, etc. I dont understand a paycheck comment. Lost bus pass
Ordering KIPP shirt I have concerns about my childs social adjustment My child has an IEP/504 Accommodations
My child will be absent or late I have overall questions
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ATTENDANCE
Attendance is part of our promotional criteria. Advanced Notice: If a child is going to miss school because of an illness or emergency, parents should call the Office Manager, Ms. Johnson, that morning or ahead of time. All absences require the student to bring in a note the following day signed by the parent, guardian or doctor and must be given to the Office Manager when the KIPPster returns to school. Only an absence due to illness with a note from a doctor or an absence due to a death in the family with a note from the parent or guardian will be considered an excused absence. When a KIPPster is absent from school the Office Manager places a phone call home. Absence Policy: 1-5 days out: parents are notified daily by the Office Manager. 6-10 days out (cumulatively, regardless if consecutive or not): parents are notified by Office Manager. In addition the Office Manager will send the names of all KIPPsters that have been out for more than 5 days cumulatively to the Dean of Students, Mr. Byrne to generate attendance letters. The school has the right to not promote students based on poor attendance if a student is absent 10 or more days. 11-15 days out (cumulatively, regardless if consecutive or not): parents must meet with the Dean of Students to discuss attendance. During this meeting, the Dean of Students will inform the parents of their childs inability to participate in end of the year trips and they will review the Commitment to Excellence together. 16-20 days out (cumulatively, regardless if consecutive or not): parents must meet with the Dean of Students to review and re-sign the Commitment to Excellence, and to discuss the childs achievement, future success, and potential retention. All absences are noted on report cards. KIPPsters are responsible for all missed assignments and must arrange a way to complete all missed assignments and homework with their teachers. KIPPsters who are absent are expected to call individual teachers to find out their assignments and make up the homework when they return to school. All missed, incomplete, or incorrect work must be completed. The absent student needs to work together with their teachers to ensure that all work is made up. Lateness Policy: KIPPsters must arrive to school by 7:25 a.m. Monday Friday. Arriving at 7:26 a.m. in front of the attendance monitor is considered late. KIPPsters who arrive late must sign the late book, and must indicate time of arrival as well as the reason. Late KIPPsters will receive the following consequences: o Debit on paycheck (deducted by the teacher upon student arrival to class); and o Phone call. KIPPsters who are late to ANY class throughout the day for any unexcused reason will receive a debit on his/her paycheck for lateness. If a student brings their own breakfast, they must arrive to the cafeteria before 7:20 in order to eat it. All lateness is noted on report cards. KIPPsters are responsible for all missed assignments and must arrange a way to complete all missed assignments and homework. In regard to school incentives, 3 late arrivals will be equal to one absence.
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FOOD SERVICES
All families must fill out a federal free/reduced lunch form in September. Families that qualify will receive a free/reduced pricing for lunch. Breakfast is optional and will take place from 7:05 7:20 a.m., Monday Friday. It is suggested that your child not arrive later than 7:10 a.m. if he or she wants to receive breakfast in the morning. Families may also choose to send a bag lunch. However, the school is unable to assume responsibility for refrigerating or warming lunch brought from home. Therefore, we recommend that meals be brought to school in a sealable lunch bag or lunchbox. Please inform the school if your child has any food allergies. If your child chooses to bring in a bag lunch, the lunch must meet the standards of a healthy meal. Therefore, lunches brought for lunch may only consist of: fruit juice (with at least 10% real juice), or water, or milk A healthy main course (such as a sandwich, salad, leftovers, etc.) unlimited fruits or vegetables one small dessert item (cookies, healthy chips, etc.) please note that sodas of any kind are not permitted. Snacks will be provided during the school day as well.
TRANSPORTATION
Students either receive a half fare or full fare Metrocard. Student eligibility is determined by grade and distance based on NY State Law and Chancellors Regulation A-801. The table below is a summary of these rules, which must be applied in all cases: Grade 5-6 5-6 7-8 7-8 Distance Less than 1 mile 1 mile or more Less than 1-1/2 miles 1-1/2 miles or more Eligible For Half Fare Full Fare Half Fare Full Fare
It is each students responsibility to hold onto the Metrocard. Students will receive a transportation pass the Friday prior to Saturday school. Parents are expected to pick up or make special arrangements for students remaining after school for detention, tutoring, or special activities. If a Metrocard is lost or stolen, please report this to Ms. Johnson, Office Manager, immediately. If you have any questions or concerns about Metrocards, please contact Ms. Johnson at 718-943-3710 ext. 4444 or visit the Office of Pupil Transportation website: http:schools.nyc.gov/offices/transportation/Parentresources/generaleducationeligibility/default.htm Parents must provide contact information for any person authorized to pick up their child. If the person picking up child is not the parent/legal guardian of the child, they must be a) given explicit written permission to pick up the child and b) be 18 years or older. Please contact Ms. Edwards, Director of Operations, if there are any concerns.
FIELD TRIPS
Our students and families look forward to various opportunities, especially our field trips. Each year, KIPP teachers plan several field trips that complement the curriculum. In addition, many KIPPsters work hard to earn an out-of-state field trip at the end of the year. Students earn these trips based on their paycheck averages, attendance, academics, and overall character. In addition, the school reserves the right to remove a student from a trip or prohibit him/her from participating for any reason that jeopardizes
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the physical or emotional well-being of him/her or others. The school will discuss with families in more detail as trip season approaches.
COMMUNICATING WITH STAFF AND TEACHERS

Part of the success of KIPP AMP Academy is the open communication between parents, students, and teachers. In an effort to help with this, we distribute telephone numbers of all KIPP AMP Academy staff. Students and parents should feel free to call staff members with concerns or questions until 8:30 PM on week nights. This is also a good chance to get help, if necessary, with homework. If you or your child is trying to call a teacher but he/she does not answer, please leave a message explaining the reason for the call, your full name and telephone number, and allow time to return your call. We expect that students and families use our cell phone numbers in an appropriate and professional manner. In addition, in the event of an emergency, please feel free to call Mr. Lewis (Principal), Ms. Edwards (Director of Operations), Mr. Byrne (Dean of Students), or Ms. Killins (Counselor).
CELL PHONE USAGE

We understand many of you have purchased cell phones for your children to be used in case of emergencies, or just simply as a means to communicate with your child after school. However, cell phones cannot be used or seen during school hours. Also, cell phones may not be worn on the hip. Cell phones must be turned off and put out of sight before students enter the school and phones must remain off throughout the school day. If this rule is not followed, your childs phone will be confiscated, and will be held by the Dean of Students until a parent/guardian comes to the school to pick it up. Please know that if the phone is confiscated on more than one occasion, the school reserves the right to not allow your child to bring a cell phone to school at all. Please be advised that KIPP AMP is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged cell phones or other technology. If you need a message relayed to your child, please call the school directly at 718-943-3710.
TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNET USE

In order to maintain appropriate use of our technology equipment at school, we ask all students to refrain from the following:

Using computers without staff supervision or permission. Downloading software, plug-ins, games or other programs without permission. Using chat rooms, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, or other personal social networking websites. Changing Windows desktop, taskbar, screensaver, or any other computer settings. Accessing anyone else's data folders, files or documents. Sending email or IM unless specified by a staff member. Eating or drinking near a computer. Leaving a laptop anywhere else but in mobile lab when done with it. Playing non-education games on a KIPP computer. Viewing inappropriate websites, images, or other web content.
Students in violation of any of the above may be subject to disciplinary action.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Students should ensure that any personal belongings they bring with them to school are appropriate for school and do not pose any type of physical or emotional risk to themselves or others. Expensive jewelry or large sums of money should not be brought to school. All toys, cards, games and electronics (IPods, PSPs, Gameboy DSs, etc.) will be confiscated and returned only to parents and guardians. Finally, please note that the school is not responsible for any personal belongings brought to school.
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STUDENT DRESS CODE POLICY

The KIPP AMP uniform is a grey polo shirt containing the KIPP AMP logo and khaki pants or skirt. The uniform shirt must be tucked in at all time and nothing may be worn over it except for a KIPP AMP sweater (no hoodies). All pants must be worn at the waist with a belt that does not contain any large images or symbols on it. Pants cannot be excessively baggy or inappropriately tight. Skirts may not be shorter than the knee-length and may not have slits above the knee. Shorts, capris and skorts are not permitted (except during summer school). Students may choose their own footwear but they may not show their toes or have heels. Students may not wear hats, caps, do-rags, head ties or other head coverings in the school (except in the case of religious observance). Scarves are also not allowed while students are indoors. Jewelry will be kept to a bare minimum at KIPP AMP. Students are allowed to wear one necklace, tucked inside their shirt. No bracelets of any kind are allowed. The only item allowed on a students wrist is a watch. Girls are only allowed to wear earrings that are smaller than a quarter. Boys are not allowed to wear earrings. Students may not pierce any body part other than their ears. Students may not wear any rings on their fingers. Students may not wear makeup, lip gloss, contacts and hair with color or multiple colors. Students may use lip balm, such as Vaseline or ChapStick to moisturize lips. As with any items, these may be taken away for inappropriate and excessive use. Girls may wear nail polish only. Natural nails may not be longer than 1 cm past the end of the finger. On certain Fridays (which will be announced in advance), all students must wear professional dress clothing. For boys, this includes dress pants, a dress shirt with tie, and dress shoes (no sneakers or unprofessional boots). For girls, this includes a dress, a dress shirt with a skirt, or a dress shirt with dress pants (no denim) and dress shoes (no sneakers or unprofessional boots). Heels for girls are allowed on professional dress day, but they may not be over 1 inch. Dress shirts should not have any type of printed words or pictures. This year, KIPP AMP will be taking a zero tolerance approach to students that are not in the correct uniform. That means that students who are not wearing the appropriate uniform will not be allowed to be in class and students that do not meet our standards for jewelry and make up corrected in the following ways: If your child comes to school with more than one necklace, bracelets, earrings that are larger than a quarter, piercings on body parts other than ears or rings, they will be confiscated and held until you come to pick them up. If they come to school with makeup, lip gloss, contacts or fake nails, they must be removed. If their nails are longer than 1 cm past their fingertips, they will have to cut them. If a student comes to school without the appropriate uniform shirt or pants, the student will receive a debit on his or her paycheck, and we will call you to either bring in the correct uniform for him or her or to pick your child up and take him or her home.
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ORDERING UNIFORMS
Cookies, a local kids department store, is the vendor for uniforms. In order for Cookies to accommodate our needs and to pass on certain discounts to parents, uniforms must be purchased either online or via telephone (see information below). While polo shirts and sweaters must be purchased at Cookies, khaki pants and skirts can be purchased at any store of your choosing. The other side of the page provides Cookies price information. When checking out, please use the coupon code AMP to receive a 5% discount on all orders and free shipping on orders over $25. When ordering, please remember to purchase the same number of logos for the corresponding number of tops (polos and sweaters) that you buy. The shirts will be delivered with the logos already sewn on to the tops but Cookies ordering system requires the items to be purchased separately. Website http://www.cookieskids.com/Uniform.aspx?sid=1848&dcid=0&a=AMP Telephone Number 1-877-942-6654
CAFETERIA/FOOD POLICY
Expectations/ Protocol KIPPsters are not to enter the cafeteria or the auditorium with jackets, sweaters, or any other form of outer wear on. KIPPsters are not allowed to eat candy, chew gum, or to drink soda at school. Any KIPPster with candy, gum, or soda will be required to throw it away. KIPPsters are not permitted to walk around the cafeteria or the auditorium. They should remain seated unless they have permission from an adult in their designated area to get up. KIPPsters are not to exit the cafeteria or auditorium without permission; this includes using the bathroom. KIPPsters are not allowed to get breakfast after 7:20; therefore, they should get breakfast immediately upon entering the cafeteria. All areas should be left better than we found them so that they are ready to be used by others.
INDEPENDENT READING & BOOK LOSS POLICY

Your child will be reading assigned novels and independent reading books borrowed from school. We believe that books are sacred and must be well taken care of so that many more students will be able to enjoy them. To that end, if a child loses or damages any KIPP AMP book, assigned novel or independent reading book, they will be required to pay a $15.00 flat fee to replace it. You will receive a notice if your child is missing a book and your child will not be permitted to attend any school trips or other incentives until this fee is paid.
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GENERAL STUDENT SUPPLIES

Students need a number of specific organizational tools and supplies in order to start the school year. Therefore, KIPP AMP makes every effort to equip students with the in-school supplies they need for the start of the year. Each student receives 5 separate binders for each subject to keep at school, pencils, a pencil pouch, 3 separate composition notebooks for 3 classes, some loose-leaf paper, a uniform homework folder, dividers for their tests and quizzes. In addition, eight grade students receive a graph notebook for math class. The total cost for these provided supplies, their shipping and labeling is about $56 per student. To assist with this, parents and guardians will need to reimburse the school $35 of this cost. For the 2011 2012 Academic year, we have extended the deadline, which was previously communicated as September 9, 2011, to Friday, September 15, 2011. Please send cash or money orders in a sealed envelope with your childs name and the title Supplies on the front. Money Orders should be made out to KIPP AMP Academy and payments should be given directly to Ms. Edwards, our Director of Operations, or Mr. Byrne, our Dean of Students. If we do not receive the supply fee, your child will not be allowed to attend field trips and other offcampus activities until this fee is received in full. In addition to the supplies above and in order for students to successfully complete their homework and prepare for the next school day, we recommend that families provide the following supplies at home for their child: pencil sharpener (strongly recommended pencils may not be sharpened during the school day); scissors and tape; extra boxes of sharpened pencils with erasers (strongly recommended); black and blue pens (for 6th through 8th grade students); crayons and markers; lined paper; construction paper and glue. Although students should not purchase any in-school supplies for the beginning of the school year, they will be required to replace any supplies which they damage, become worn down, or that are depleted throughout the year. Students must maintain their binders, folders and other organizational supplies with high standards of neatness and cleanliness. KIPP AMP expects its scholars to show respect for their belongings, whether they were purchased by their family or the school. If lost or damaged, the following KIPP AMP provided items must be re-purchased from KIPP AMP to ensure consistency in student supplies: 1) Pencil Case- $2.00 2) Multi-subject Homework Folder- $3.00 3) Binder- $3.00 4) Dividers- $1.00 (pack of 5 tabs) 5) Composition Notebook- $2.00
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Please see the complete student supply list and additional detail below: What supplies are ALL students provided to be used in all subjects? Homework folder. 1 pencil case per student 3 pencils sharpened with erasers 2 pens (7-8) No pencil sharpers in school No white out No sharpie markers Reading (Red) o Marble composition notebooks o Binder (stay in class) o Dividers one divider must be for Tests/Quizzes Writing (blue) o Marble composition notebooks o Binder (Stay in class) 2.5 inch o Dividers one divider must be for Tests/Quizzes o Folders (may stay in class) o Red Pens (class set for each writing teacher) Math (Blue) o Binders (Stay in class) 2.5 inch o Dividers one divider must be for Tests/Quizzes o Spiral, Graph Notebook with holes (8th grade) Science (Black) o 2.5 Binder (Stay in class) with lab section. o Dividers one divider must be for Tests/Quizzes Social Studies (White) o Binder (Stay in class) o Dividers one divider must be for Tests/Quizzes Nonfiction (White) o Binder (Stay in class) o Dividers one divider must be for Tests/Quizzes Arts o 1 inch binders (Stay in class) (Music) one divider must be for Tests/Quizzes o Marble comp notebooks (Capoeira) Students may ONLY sharpen pencils in afternoon homeroom with teacher permission. Students may NOT sharpen pencils in AM homeroom. Students must arrive to school with sharpened pencils. If a child does not have three sharpened pencils in AM homeroom, they should be debited and given golf pencils for the day. Golf pencils should be collected at the end of the day. Supplies will not be replaced by KIPP AMP. Any lost or damaged supplies will need to be replaced by the student. The teacher should make the appropriate paycheck debits and phone calls to ensure that the child arrives to school prepared. Yes. In a letter, we communicate to parents that we recommend that families provide the following supplies at home for their child: pencil sharpener (strongly recommended pencils may not be sharpened during the school day) scissors, and tape
What supplies are students NOT allowed to have or use at school? What supplies are students provided by subject? What does the supply fee for students cover?
When can students sharpen pencils?
What happens when a student loses/damages supplies? Will the supplies be replaced? Are parents asked to make sure that students have extra supplies at home and if so what are they?
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Are students allowed to write and draw on their binders?
extra boxes of sharpened pencils with erasers (strongly recommended) black and blue pens (for 6th through 8th grade students) crayons and markers lined paper construction paper, and glue
No. Binders are actually a large amount of our student supply budget so we want to make sure that the binders we give students last for many years. So students are NOT allowed to scrape pictures or words on the see-through pockets at the front of their binders, nor are they allowed to decorate their name labels. If teachers want to allow students to personalize their composition notebooks that is up to the discretion of the teacher but then they become responsible for ensuring that all notebooks still have a neat look and have nothing inappropriate written on our in them
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HEALTH AND SAFETY

IMMUNIZATIONS
New York State law requires that all children entering elementary school be immunized against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, 2 Hepatitis A, 3 Hepatitis B, and Varicella. Before a child can be permitted to enter and attend school (subject to the 14-day initial waiver requirement), parents or guardians must present documentation that their child has received all required doses of vaccines or that their child has received at least one dose of each of the required vaccines and is waiting to receive the subsequent doses at the appropriate time intervals. KIPP AMP Academy must receive a complete immunization records by September 26, 2011 or your child may not be allowed to attend school. These requirements can be waived only if a properly signed health or religious exemption is filed with the school.
REPORTING A CHILDS SICKNESS

If your child is going to miss school because of illness, please call the school as soon as possible. All student absences should be followed up the next day with a note signed by a parent, guardian or doctor. KIPP AMP staff will call to verify all student absences. Please let our Office Manager, Ms. Johnson, know if there are any medical concerns or special circumstances of which we should be aware.
ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL HOURS

If a child becomes ill or injured during the school day and is not well enough to stay in class, the parent/guardian will be called to pick the child up. It is necessary to have updated emergency contact numbers on file in the school office in case no one can be contacted at home. If the person picking up child is not the parent/legal guardian of the child, they must be a) given explicit written permission to pick up the child and b) be 18 years or older.
MEDICATION
Staff at the school is NOT authorized to administer medication. If a child needs to take medicine at school, he/she must give the Office Manager, Ms. Johnson, a written note from a doctor or parent with exact dosage and times for student to take. Ms. Johnson will provide these instructions and the medicine to the School Nurse who is responsible for administering all medicine. Medicine needs to be in its original packaging/case. If there are any concerns about medicine, allergies and overall health please contact Ms. Edwards, Director of Operations. Students with asthma should bring an inhaler prescribed by their doctor to school each day. Asthmatic students should notify a KIPP staff member as soon as breathing becomes difficult.
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COUNSELING SERVICES
The Dean of Students (Mr. Byrne) and counselor (Ms. Killins) at KIPP AMP Academy are available to help any student or parent address any social, emotional, or academic issue they may be facing. In addition, our social worker and counselor help students work through and cope with personal and schoolrelated stress. At KIPP, every student is entitled to counseling support and referral services. Counseling support is also extended to KIPP families in need. There are several ways in which students may be referred for counseling services: If a parent is interested in having his/her child seen by our counselor, please contact Mr. Byrne or Mr. Lewis. Students are able to ask directly to speak with our guidance counselor in a crisis situation. A student may also be referred at the recommendation of a teacher, social worker or administrator. Please understand that we are required to respect the rights and privacy of our students and families; as a result, all information and counseling services are confidential and cannot be shared (except in instances required by law).
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2010-2011 ACADEMIC CALENDAR & SCHEDULE

2011 - 2012 KIPP AMP Calendar
SEP 6 23 29 - 30 First Day of School No School Rosh Hashanah (No School)
OCT
7 15 10 19
Q1 Progress Reports Distributed to Parents Saturday School Columbus Day (No School) Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm
NOV
4 5 10 11 16 21 - 25
No School Saturday School Q1 Report Card/Parent-Teacher Conference Night Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm Veterans Day (SCHOOL IS IN SESSION) Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm Thanksgiving Break (No School)
DEC
9 14 16 Dec 23 - Jan 2
No School Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm Q2 Progress Reports Distributed to Parents Winter Break (No School)
JAN
3 7 16 26 27
2012 - 2013 Lottery Opens & Student Recruitment Begins Saturday School Martin Luther King Day (No School) Q2 Report Card/Parent-Teacher Conference Night Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm No School
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2011 - 2012 KIPP AMP Calendar

FEB 4 8 20 - 24 Saturday School Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm Mid-Winter Break (No School)
MAR
9 10 16
Q3 Progress Reports Distributed to Parents Saturday School No School
APR
5 6 - 13 17-18 23-24 18 28
AMP Lottery Q3 Report Card/Parent-Teacher Conference Night Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm No School Spring Break (No School) New York State English & Language Arts Exam New York State Math Exam Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm Saturday School
MAY
12 28 30
Saturday School Memorial Day Grade 8 State Science Performance Test
JUN
4 5 - 13 21 - 22 22
Half Day - School Dismisses at 1:00 pm Finals Report Card Distribution to Parents Last Day of School
JULY 2012 SUMMER SCHOOL DATES JULY 9 JULY 27, 8:00 1:30 pm
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A QUICK GLANCE CALENDAR BY CATEGORY

A) SATURDAY SCHOOL DAYS October 15, 2011 November 5, 2011 January 7, 2012 February 4, 2012 March 10, 2012 April 28, 2012 May 12, 2012 B) HALF DAYS (1:00 DISMISSAL) October 19, 2011 November 10, 2011 (Report Card Night) November 16, 2011 December 14, 2011 January 26, 2012 (Report Card Night) February 8, 2012 April 4, 2012 (Report Card Night) April 18, 2012 June 4, 2012 C) STUDENTS & STAFF HOLIDAYS Rosh Hashanah September 29 30, 2011 Columbus Day October 10, 2011 Thanksgiving Recess November 21 25, 2011 Winter Recess December 23, 2011 January 2, 2012 MLK Day January 16, 2012 Mid-Winter Break February 20 24, 2012 Spring Recess April 6 - April 13, 2012 Memorial Day May 28, 2012 D) SCHOOL CLOSED FOR STUDENTS ONLY (STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAYS) September 23, 2011 November 4, 2011 December 9, 2011 January 27, 2011 March 16, 2011 April 5, 2011 E) REPORT CARD NIGHTS November 10, 2011 (Half Day for Students) January 26, 2012 (Half day for Students) April 4, 2012 (Half day for Students) June 21-22, 2012 (Distribution of Cards only, meetings must be scheduled individually)
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SCHOOL SCHEDULE
Starting in September, all students will start school at 7:25am and will remain until classes are dismissed at 4 pm, Monday through Thursday. Friday dismissal will be at 2:30PM. When applicable, the Saturday schedule will be from 9am to 1pm. After school detention, tutoring, and extracurricular activities are scheduled during the 4 pm to 5 pm time period. Below is a sample of your childs daily schedule. SAMPLE OF A KIPPSTERS DAILY SCHEDULE 7:00 AM - 7:20 AM (Breakfast) 7:25 AM - 8:00 AM (Morning Homeroom) Students work independently and cooperatively on math, reading, logic, and critical thinking skills through a variety of problem-solving activities. 8:00 AM - 3:40 PM (Core Academic Subjects) Students are engaged in the standard curriculum areas of reading, writing, math, science, arts, and social studies. During this time, students will also have a lunch period. 3:40 PM - 4:00 PM (Afternoon Homeroom) Students work independently and cooperatively on math, reading, logic, and critical thinking skills through a variety of problem-solving activities. 4:00 PM 5:00 PM (Tutoring /Extracurricular Activities/ Sports/Detention) Students may stay after school for homework help, tutoring, sports, etc. from 4:00 through 5:00 pm Monday through Thursday.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS (BAD WEATHER)

If the NYC public schools close due to bad weather, KIPP AMP Academy is closed. Listen to the radio (e.g. 1010 WINS news) or television for the announcement closings/delays of NYC Public Schools. You can also check the Department of Education website (http://schools.nyc.gov).
SUMMER SCHOOL
Summer school is a critical time to get a head start on the coming school year. As a result, all students at KIPP AMP Academy must attend school during the summer. Please contact Mr. Lewis, Principal, with concerns.
SATURDAY SCHOOL
On appropriate Saturdays, all KIPP AMP Academy students are expected to attend Saturday school from 9:00-1:00PM. Unless otherwise specified, students must continue to follow the standard KIPP Academy dress code on Saturdays.
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VOLUNTARY AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Some students may be invited to remain after-school (after 4:00pm) to participate in tutoring, sports or other after-school activities. Students can only remain at school until 5:00pm with explicit permission from parents, with the exception of students that are required to stay for detention.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETINGS

KIPP AMP board meetings are open to the public. For times and location, please call the school.
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ACADEMICS - WORK HARD

HOMEWORK
Students have homework in every class, every night. Additionally, students must read for 30 minutes at home, in their independent reading book every night. Homework must be completed before it is due. Students will not be allowed to complete homework during morning homeroom. No student is excused from any assignment without the permission of his or her teacher prior to the due date. If a student discovers that s/he will be unable to complete an assignment, s/he must contact the teacher by phone no later than the night before it is due. If the student is unable to contact their teacher for some reason, s/he must bring a written note from their parents/guardians. This note and communication will not necessarily excuse the tardy assignment but it shows a responsible attitude toward assigned work. KEY HOMEWORK POINTS There are many points we review with students. Below are some of the consistent messages we send to our KIPPsters as we reinforce the importance of homework. Please review with your child and continue to reinforce accurate, thorough and timely completion of homework. As always students can call teachers with homework questions. Incomplete homework assignments or assignments the student cannot find at the moment the assignment is asked for by the teacher will all be considered incomplete, and students will not receive credit for them until they make them up. Students have 3 days to make up missing homework assignments. Each day the student will receive a 25% deduction for late work. After three days the student will receive a zero on the assignment. MAKE-UP WORK ON DAYS STUDENT IS ABSENT Students who are absent are expected to call individual teachers to find out their assignments and make up the homework when they return to school. Students have one day without penalty for each day of absence (for example, a student who has been absent two days would have two days to make up the work without penalty). All missed, incomplete or incorrect work must be completed. It is the students responsibility to check with each of his/her teachers to make sure s/he is aware of all assignments. When a student is absent, all late, incomplete, or missing assignments must be made up within the timeframe specified by the teacher. PARENT SIGNATURE ON TESTS/PAYCHECK Parents are expected to sign all graded tests and weekly paychecks.
CHEATING/PLAGIARISM
Cheating is a serious offense. If a student copies another students work or if a student gives another student his/her work, it is considered cheating, and the student will receive and immediate 0 for that specific assignment and will not receive higher than an N on their conduct grade on that quarters report card. Additional consequences may also apply as appropriate. Plagiarism involves the stealing of someone elses ideas or words as ones own or the imitation of the language, ideas, and thoughts of another author (or person) and then passing them off as their own original work. If a student plagiarized and forges a signature, this is also considered academic dishonesty. Any student who plagiarizes will receive an immediate 0 for that specific assignment and will not receive higher than an N on their conduct grade. Additional consequences may also apply as appropriate.
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REPORT CARDS AND GRADING

Report cards will be issued four times per year. Progress reports will be provided to parents at the midpoint of each quarter to update them on their childs academic progress (see calendar on page 21 for specific nights). Progress reports provide a picture of a students academic performance based on assignments and assessments administered in a given period. The grading system for report cards is as follows: ACADEMIC GRADE SCALE
90 100 = A 80 89 = B 70 79 = C Below 70 = Failing
CONDUCT GRADE SCALE

E = Excellent G = Good S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement U = Unsatisfactory
METHODS OF ASSESSING FOR ACADEMIC GRADES Below are possible assessments that are used to measure academic progress.
Exams (weekly tests/quizzes, unit tests) Written Responses Extended Responses (Labs, Essays) Oral Presentations (oral reports, speeches) Group Work/Projects Class work Homework Informal Observations (reflected in some form of documentation by teacher) Portfolios Student Self-Assessment Peer Reviews Conferencing Journals/Learning Logs Meeting Reading Goals Student-Self Assessing Formal Observation (using criteria list)
PROMOTION TO THE NEXT GRADE

Students may be retained in their grade at the end of the year for any one of, or combination of, the following factors: Failure to meet academic standards of readiness for the next grade: Students who fail (earn below 70%) in a core subject (Reading, Writing, Math, Nonfiction Studies, Social Studies, Science) may be retained. Students who fail either the reading or math standardized test at the end of the year may be retained as well. Failure to meet adequate standards of attendance and lateness: Students who miss more than 10 days of school may be retained. Please note that every 3 days late counts as one day absent. Failure to meet behavioral standards of readiness for the next grade level: Students whose behavior has not shown adequate growth or improvement, or is not at a sufficient level, may be retained.
Failure to meet grade reading and book comprehension goals: Students who fail to meet their grades reading and comprehension goals may also be retained.
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STANDARDIZED TESTING
KIPP AMP Academy administers the New York State 5th Grade Social Studies Exam (Nov.), English/Language Arts Exam in all grades (April), Math Exam in all grades (April), 8th Grade Science Exam (May) and Social Studies Exam (June), 8th Grade Earth Science Regents (June) and 8th Grade Math Regents Exams (June). These exams give teachers information about students so that they can effectively design instruction to meet particular student needs, and clearly demonstrate the academic achievement of students. Once a year, the school will share the school-wide results of these tests. These test results are also used as part of your childs academic portfolio when determining promotion status.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
If your child has an IEP or 504, please make sure that the school has the most recent copy. For students who have Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 Accommodations, staff will provide the support to meet needs. Such services may include the following: Testing modifications such as extended time, separate location, and/or questions read aloud Counseling Speech therapy Occupational therapy Physical therapy and/or accommodations Any other related special education services mandated by an IEP or 504 Accommodations In the event that KIPP Academy cannot provide the necessary support for a student, you will receive a phone call and a meeting will be setup with you to discuss potential next steps. If you have any questions regarding special education or the referral process, please contact your childs respective Learning Specialist or the Deans of Teaching & Learning. Jonathan McIntosh, 7th & 8th Grade Learning Specialist Shaka Phillips, 6th Grade Learning Specialist Frank Ribeiro, 5th Grade Learning Specialist Elizabeth Raji-Greig, Dean of Teaching & Learning Autumn Zangrilli, Dean of Teaching & Learning
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CAPOEIRA AT KIPP AMP

WHY CAPOEIRA? Capoeira and KIPP AMP share the 3Ds of discipline, desire and dedication. Capoeira fits perfectly with our plan to foster strong character, mind, body, soul and spirit within our students. The journey of capoeira is life-long, as is the journey of personal growth and education. Through these journeys our students will become more aware of themselves and their connection to the world. Through capoeira we will stress positive development in the areas of self-image, peer interaction, goal-setting, and global citizenship. BATIZADO At the end of each school year students will participate in a capoeira graduation, called a batizado. A batizado is a celebration of students achievements and hard work in capoeira throughout the year. If students have shown exceptional growth in all relevant areas of their capoeira training, they will be eligible to receive a (new) colored cord. Although the majority of students will be involved in the capoeira batizado as participants, it is the tradition in capoeira that only a select few will receive cords each year. As students progress through the cord system, it becomes a longer and more difficult process to earn the next cord; it may be the case that students stay at a given cord level for multiple years before progressing to the next cord level. CORD SYSTEM A cord in capoeira is the equivalent of a belt in Asian martial arts. From 5 th to 8th grade, students progress in cords with the following colors: white, yellow, orange, blue, green, and purple. Students are not guaranteed to receive a colored cord every year; actually, it is more common that they do not. Cords cannot be purchased, only earned. (Colored) cords can also be taken from students who fail to meet behavior or other requirements, or demonstrate lack of respect for fellow students and/or teachers. White cords are given when students receive their first pair of abadas, unless they are not available at the time. When this is the case the drawstring on the abadas should be utilized. Like abadas, cords are shipped to KIPP from Brazil several times through the school year. Cord levels are closely correlated to students capoeira grades (see below).
*KIPP AMP Capoeira follows the standards and traditions of Capoeira Luanda under the leadership of Mestre Jelon Vieira.
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KIPP AMP PAYCHECK SYSTEM

Mission: The mission of our paycheck system is to support teachers by providing a sustainable management tool and documentation system that holds students accountable for their decisions and their behavior while serving as a tool for weekly communication with families. Protocol: Homeroom teachers are responsible for giving their class a Paycheck Tracker each day in AM Homeroom. One student should be assigned as the Paycheck Tracker Monitor. This student is responsible for collecting the Paycheck Tracker from the teacher at the end of each period, carrying it to their next class, and giving the Paycheck Tracker to the next teacher. The Paycheck Tracker will travel with each class for the day and will be collected by the homeroom teacher at the end of each day. Teachers should document paycheck trackers as behaviors warranting debits or credits occur. At no time should a student be in charge of documenting paychecks as this takes away from the severity and integrity of the system. Teachers will acknowledge students through positive narration verses public paycheck announcements alone. General Guidelines: During the week, the students paycheck should reflect their ability to exceed our expectations as they relate to the following character traits: o Social Intelligence An awareness of environment, appropriate interactions, and a general enthusiasm for sharing ideas o Bravery An ability to be honest with adults and peers about shortcomings and performs in large/uncomfortable settings o Kindness A considerate act for another person; displays sharing and caring for others o Self-Control Refraining from unwelcome or disruptive behavior; maintaining appropriate behavior despite distractions o Citizenship Showing pride in our school and surrounding community; sticking up for others o Grit Working hard and never giving up o Zest Being truthful yet polite and sincerely reflective and communicative about self o Love of Learning Mature decisions and actions in the effort to learn, without prompting o Leadership Taking care of duties: tasks, academics and behavior All students start each week with $0 on their paycheck. Students earn $10 for every day that they arrive to school on time and $5 for every day that they arrive to school late. Credits should only be awarded in $1 increments. For example, a student should not receive, Kindness x4. Debits should be given as $1 only (with the exception of DR, MO and ADA). Students should not receive Talking X2. DR should reflect a $3 debit and should be used prior to any MO, which is a $5 debit. MO on the paycheck will result in a parent phone call and immediate detention. Students who receive a paycheck of $35 or less for the week will have lunch detention the following week.
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5th graders will serve 2 days of lunch detention (Monday & Tuesday) 6th graders will serve 3 days of lunch detention (Monday Wednesday) 7th graders will serve 4 days of lunch detention (Monday Thursday) with the option to earn out for good behavior o 8th graders will serve 5 days of lunch detention (Monday Friday) with the option to earn out for good behavior Paycheck averages will also be used as one major factor in determining participation on field trips (including the year-end field trip) as well as school privileges. o o o
Printing and Distributing Paychecks: Paychecks will be issued every Friday for the paycheck week, which will be from Friday to Thursday. Every homeroom teacher is responsible for inputting the data from their class Paycheck Trackers into the school-wide Paycheck document and emailing that document to the Office Manager by Thursday night of each week. The Office Manager will print weekly paychecks for students on Friday morning and distribute them to homeroom teachers to be given out to students during the day. Students must bring paychecks home, review them with their parents, have their parents sign them, and bring them back to school on Monday. Homeroom teachers should check for a parent signature on Monday in Thinking Skills. Students who do not have their paychecks signed should receive a documents debit on their current paycheck and a reminder phone call should be made to the parent/guardian by the homeroom teacher
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Credits: Below you will find a list of our credits as seen on paychecks. Credits Beyond Z - Social Intelligence Beyond Z - Bravery Beyond Z - Kindness Beyond Z - Self-Control Beyond Z - Citizenship Beyond Z Grit Beyond Z Zest Beyond Z Love of Learning Beyond Z Leadership Code ZSI ZB ZK ZSC ZC ZG ZZ ZLL ZL $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Amount 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
The general definition of the BEYOND character trait we see exhibited in Z class. SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE Student listens when others talk, both in groups and in class. Student incorporates or builds off the ideas of others. Student is aware and sensitive of others feelings
Student actions that lead to Beyond Zs, if and only if, the actions are CONSISTENT or ABOVE AND BEYOND THE EXPECTATION. Applying skills to the world Cleaning up after others in public venues Speaking appropriately while others work (In class/Hallways) Giving feedback without prompting Actively listening Humor without making fun of others Saying sorry, when wrong Acting differently in different spaces Being honest about shortcomings Being articulate with questions/answers in public forums Admitting mistakes and making changes Standing up for others or for your beliefs in opposition to popular sentiment PETSYs all the time Sharing with others Positive comments about others Speaking appropriately while others work Cleaning up after others Comforting others with smiles/laughter etc. Assigning yourself On-task despite distractions Sitting up to focus in class Improvement on self-control Improvement with bad habits Meeting every expectation
Student consistently stands up for other students. Student speaks/performs in uncomfortable settings. Student is honest about his/her shortcomings with other students/teachers. Student consistently or unexpectedly comforts others, with kind words, gestures, sharing. Student shows love to various students without very little prerequisite. Student almost never displays disruptive behavior during class. Student is on task despite distractions. Student shows significant improvement in curbing a previously chronic negative behavior.
SELF CONTROL
KINDNESS
BRAVERY
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CITIZENSHIP
Student consistently or without prompting offers help for the benefit of the entire community or aides students who have been absent. Student often attempts to be fair. Student consistently or unexpectedly persists through personally challenging tasks.
Being honest about a class disruption and accountable to team Applying skills to the world Sharing with other students Tracking the speaker Cleaning up after yourself Assigning yourself Assigning yourself Meeting every expectation Following a series of directions On task despite distractions Completing difficult assignments Sitting up, everyday/every class Improvement with a bad habit Tracking the speaker Maintaining a positive demeanor: Smiling/Being positive Re-doing or improving work Refusing to give up despite initial failure, difficulties, or setbacks On task despite distractions Improvement with any bad habit Being excited to participate Articulate with explanations/questions Assigning yourselfgetting right to work A burst of positive energy consistently Participating often Smiling or not frowning consistently Upbeat demeanor Seeking extra work Applying skills to the world Participating often Completing difficult assignments Being articulate with explanations/questions Improvement with a bad habit Assigning yourself-getting right to work Meeting every expectation On task despite distractions Correcting others appropriately Being articulate with explanations/questions Sharing Modeling all aspects of SSLANT Applying skills to the world
GRIT
ZEST
Student consistently has a positive demeanor. Student is often excited about school, work and activity. Student is seen smiling or having positive energy often.
Student always/unexpectedly and exceptionally participates, begins work with and actively looks for opportunities to gain knowledge. Student asks lots of questions and is very curious about the nature of almost anything. Student consistently fulfills responsibilities: i.e. missing class work, assignments. Student models Student behavior in all settings without much recognition or prompting.
LEADERSHIP
LOVE OF LEARNING
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Debits: Below you will find a list of our debits as seen on paychecks: Debits Code KIPP: AMP Documents KD Not Following Directions ND Talking out of Turn, Calling Out T Dress Code Violation DC Unprepared for Class UP Homework Not Completed H Lacking Effort LE Prohibited Food, Gum and Beverage P Negative Comment NC Disregard for others DR Major Offense MO Administrative Disciplinary Action ADA KIPP: AMP Documents Not Following Directions Talking out of Turn Dress Code Violation Unprepared for Class Lacking Effort Prohibited food, gum and beverage Negative Comment
Amount $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (1.00) $ (3.00) $ (5.00) $ (10.00)
Disregard for others
KIPP AMP documents that must be signed are not signed or have been lost. This includes the weekly paycheck signature. Student does not follow directions in a timely manner or at all without malicious intent Student is not following directions due to a lack of focus or effort. Student interrupts another speaker. Student calls out in class while a teacher is instructing. Student does not adhere to the KIPP: AMP Academy dress codei.e., lacking proper shoes, belt or KIPP shirt. Student does not have shirt tucked in or has on inappropriate accessories, (earrings, necklaces, scarves, etc.), writings on body/clothing or allows pants to sag. Student does not have a sharpened pencil, loose leaf paper and/or other required materials. Student does not complete work when given ample time and support. Student refuses to participate in class. Student is eating or possesses gum, candy, sunflower seeds and any other unauthorized food. Student is drinking or possesses any beverage other than water. Student talks about students, staff, adults or events using negative language: put-downs about appearance or work, saying, shut-up to a person, serious slurs and profanity (Serious slurs and profanity should be documented and referred to administration). Student does not pick up after him/herself. Student does not track the speaker. Student yells at others. Student addresses others with an attitude. Student laughs at others. Student displays inappropriate gestures: i.e. repeatedly sucking teeth,
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Major Offense
Administrative Disciplinary Action
rolling eyes, or refusing to look in the direction of a speaker, as well as one time instances of extreme inappropriate gesturing such as: giving the middle finger or some equivalent, silently mouthing curse words and miming lewd acts (sexual or violent). Student does not modify behavior after multiple warnings/previous debits Talking while the teacher is teaching (Direct Instruction). Inappropriately confronting another student verbally during class time (saying Shut-up) Distracting fellow students via hand gestures and getting out of seat repeatedly. Distracting fellow students by talking during Independent Practice (Nonacademic related comments). Name calling and confrontations during class time: Malicious comments about othersnon-mutual joke: i.e., youre stupid, ugly, poor, ghetto. Making fun of someones dress or appearance (even if its a mutual joke it shouldnt be allowed). Confronting another student publicly. Blatant defiance. Refusing to complete work during the entire class. Profanity. Loud/major disruption repeatedly in class. Any DR infraction that has been noted and persists. Not showing up or refusing to serve lunch BT. Cutting class. Engaging in a verbal altercation with another student in the middle of class. Insubordination - Refusing to comply with directions after multiple requests and other moves. Student walks out of the room without permission. Student is sent out of class and referred to the Dean. Anytime a student is receives an in-or-out of school suspensionthe lead teacher in the occurrence should document the incident as ADA on the paycheck tracker.
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CODES OF CONDUCT
OVERVIEW
The foundation of disciplinary procedures for KIPP AMP has been the Commitment to Excellence Form, the paycheck system (see page 30 for full details), and the strong relationships between parents, teachers, and children. CODES OF CONDUCT & DISCIPLINE Students will be assigned to lunch detention if they earn a paycheck of $35 or less for the previous week (see page 30 for additional detail). Students in lunch detention will NOT go downstairs to the cafeteria to eat lunch with their classmates. They will remain upstairs and a lunch will be delivered to them. Students may be assigned after school detention during the school day by any member of the KIPP AMP staff. While detention assignments are at the discretion of staff members, there are two specific ways that a student will automatically be assigned to after school detention: They are sent out of class or must be removed from class. They commit a serious offense: blatant defiance, refusing to complete work during class, using profanity, loud or major disruption repeatedly in class, cutting class, engaging in a verbal altercation with another student in the middle of class, refusing to comply with directions after multiple requests, etc. The following conduct, as listed below, may result in suspension, whether it occurs on school site, in the vicinity of the school, on field trips, on any school sponsored activity, or on school buses. Suspension may be short-term or long-term, in school or out-of-school depending on the severity of the offense and whether or not the student has previously been suspended for the same offense. This list includes, but is not limited to: Assault of fellow student Endangering the physical safety of another by the use of force or threats of force that place the victim in fear of bodily injury Conduct which disrupts school or classroom activity Conduct which endangers or threatens to endanger the health, safety, welfare, or morals of others Insubordination and other forms of disrespectful behavior Failure to comply with school and classroom rules Failure to comply with disciplinary consequences Cheating on quizzes, exams, or plagiarism Use of forged notes or excuses Theft, or attempted theft, or possession of property known by the student to be stolen Extortion Gambling Abuse of school property or equipment Obscene or abusive language or gestures Verbal or physical harassment based on gender, race, ethnicity, religion or disability False bomb threat or false emergency alarm Possession of tobacco or alcohol Possession of pagers, beepers, or portable/cellular telephones not being used for instructional purposes Making a material false statement i.e., lying about an important matter -- to a teacher, principal, or other school personnel
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A student who has previously been suspended for the same or a similar offense may be subject to a suspension of six or more days or may be subject to expulsion. In addition, the following list of infractions may result in a suspension of six or more days or may result in expulsion: Possession within school, on school grounds, on school buses or during any school activity, of any firearm, knife, razor blade, explosive, mace, tear gas, or other dangerous object Arson on school property, whether accomplished or attempted Possession or use of illegal drugs or controlled substances within school, on school grounds, on school buses, or during a school activity Selling, distributing or purchasing illegal drugs or controlled substances within school, on school grounds, on school buses or during any school activity Assault of another student resulting in physical injury or any assault on a staff member Intentionally causing physical injury to another person Causing major damage to school property
All suspensions of six or more days require the approval of the Executive Director (Quinton Vance) or Superintendent (David Levin). In all cases, families will be provided with a written explanation for the suspension prior to the beginning of the suspension and students and/or parents will have the opportunity to respond. When appropriate, arrangements for alternate instruction will be offered.
CONCERNS OR DISAGREEMENTS
If you have a concern about the implementation of the school policy, academic grade, discipline decision, or anything else, we encourage you to contact the appropriate staff member at KIPP AMP by telephone. All staff members are committed to responding promptly to parent/guardian concerns. If an issue is not resolved promptly or satisfactorily, please contact Mr. Lewis, Principal, to discuss the matter further. Parents may also reach out directly to the Executive Director (Quinton Vance) or Superintendent (David Levin) in writing if their concerns have not been answered by the principal. The Executive Director or Superintendent will respond either in writing, telephone, or in person depending on the circumstance. If you are not satisfied with the resolution determined by the Executive Director and Superintendent, you may then contact the Chair of KIPP AMPs Board of Trustees.
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KIPP AMP - Family Handbook - 2011-2012

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KIPP AMP - Family Handbook - 2011-2012

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FAMILY HANDBOOK

KIPP AMP ACADEMY CREDO #1:

KIPP AMP ACADEMY CREDO #2:

KIPP COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

WHAT ARE A FEW WAYS I CAN GET INVOLVED?

SOME OF WHAT EVERY KIPPSTER LEARNS DURING WEEK ONE

NON-NEGOTIABLE EXPECTATIONS FOR KIPP AMP ACADEMY STUDENTS

STAFF CONTACT LIST

8th Grade Reading Dean of Teaching & Learning

DOCUMENTS NEEDED BY THE SCHOOL

WHO SHOULD I ASK?

My child will be absent or late I have overall questions

COMMUNICATING WITH STAFF AND TEACHERS

CELL PHONE USAGE

TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNET USE

Students in violation of any of the above may be subject to disciplinary action.

STUDENT DRESS CODE POLICY

INDEPENDENT READING & BOOK LOSS POLICY

GENERAL STUDENT SUPPLIES

When can students sharpen pencils?

HEALTH AND SAFETY

REPORTING A CHILDS SICKNESS

ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL HOURS

2010-2011 ACADEMIC CALENDAR & SCHEDULE

2011 - 2012 KIPP AMP Calendar

Q3 Progress Reports Distributed to Parents Saturday School No School

Saturday School Memorial Day Grade 8 State Science Performance Test

A QUICK GLANCE CALENDAR BY CATEGORY

SCHOOL CLOSINGS (BAD WEATHER)

VOLUNTARY AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETINGS

ACADEMICS - WORK HARD

REPORT CARDS AND GRADING

CONDUCT GRADE SCALE

PROMOTION TO THE NEXT GRADE

CAPOEIRA AT KIPP AMP

KIPP AMP PAYCHECK SYSTEM

Disregard for others

Administrative Disciplinary Action

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