Elementary Handbook

Our academic framework prepares students for post secondary citizenship. Students explore academic content and passion areas through rigorous instruction, hands-on learning experiences, and cross curricular learning. We set the foundation for students to find their voice, advocate, welcome others, and experience personal empowerment through Leader in Me and other social emotional learning experiences. 

 

The Academy Elementary has three navigational stars which guide our approach to all aspects of the elementary school experience. 

Prepare: Elementary students will develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities that prepare them to be successful readers, writers, and mathematicians.

 

School attendance is one of the most critical factors impacting a student’s academic success. At The Academy, we believe that each and every student can be successful when students, families, and the school work together to ensure students attend school consistently.  The following responsibilities of the student, family, and school set students up for learning success.  

Student Responsibilities:

• Arrive at school on time
• Be ready to learn
• Have a positive attitude
• Always try your best
• Ask for help when you need it
• Complete all schoolwork

Family Responsibilities:

• Send your child to school every day, unless child is unwell
• Contact the school each time student is absent (attendance@theacademyk12.org)
• Provide medical documentation, including specific reasons and dates, for absences from school
• Provide advance notice of any non-medical absences
• Make sure your child arrives at school on time.  North Campus - School begins at 7:45 a.m. Students should be at their desks ready to learn at 7:45 a.m. Main Campus - School begins at 8:05 am. Students should be at their desks and ready to learn at 8:05 am
• Encourage and support your child’s learning at home
• Talk to your child’s teacher about any problems that may affect your child’s learning
• Encourage your child to ask for help at school if needed
• Reinforce the importance of education and learning

School Responsibilities:

• Provide quality teaching that is based on principles of effective learning and teaching
• Prioritize resources in the most effective way to advance each student’s achievement
• Provide learning experiences and expectations that match each student’s needs
• Implement fair and supportive behavior practices that align with school policy
• Inform families about their child’s progress and behavior
• Be available to talk with families and be open and receptive to their issues and ideas
• Communicate both positive and negative feedback to families about their child
• Constantly reflect on our practices and ensure we are doing all we can to meet the needs of each individual student

Students who are chronically absent or habitually truant may be put on an attendance contract.  

Chronically Absent:
A student absent 10 percent or more of the days enrolled during the school year is chronically absent. All absences are included – unexcused, excused and suspensions per the Colorado Department of Education.

Habitually Truant:
A student is counted as habitually truant if the student has four unexcused absences in one month and/or 10 unexcused absences in one school year per the  Colorado Department of Education.

Missed Assignments & Makeup Work Due to Absences:
When a child is absent from class, they are given two school days for each day absent. The two-day time period for make-up begins the day the child returns to school. If an illness causes a student to be absent more than three days, arrangements should be made with the teacher for assignments to be done at home to keep the student from getting too far behind. When students suffer a serious illness causing them to be absent more than ten consecutive days, parents must arrange with teachers for assignments and lessons to be completed at home and turned in to the teacher periodically during the illness. Communication with teachers and administrators must be maintained during this time or the student risks retention or withdrawal. Should parents wish to take their children out of school for a period of time which exceeds five days for any reason, they must make prior arrangements with the principal and the teacher(s). Arrangements with the teacher for assignments should be made prior to the extended leave. Assignments are to be turned in upon the student’s return to school. These absences will be included in the total number of absences. 
 

Volunteer Opportunities

At The Academy, we greatly value the contributions of family volunteers. Your help and participation are invaluable to creating a positive and engaging learning environment for all students. If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about opportunities available, please feel free to contact your student’s classroom teacher or level principal. 

Some events that are in need of volunteers throughout the year are:

• Kaleidoscope
• Back to School Celebration 
• Harvest Fest/Trunk or Treat 
• Field Days at both campuses
• STEAM celebration 
• K-2 Art show
• Book Fairs 
• Grade level field trips
• Class parties
• Friday folders/classroom tasks 

If you are interested in joining the PTO, please email academypto@theacademyk12.org.