vista peak exploratory student and family...

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Vista PEAK Exploratory Student and

Family Handbook Imagine a place where…Education is real world and relevant, innovative and connected; where staff and

students thrive with choice and responsibility; to cultivate creativity and invention.

Fall 13

08 Fall

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CONTENTS

WELCOME 3

OVERVIEW 4

GUIDING PRINCIPLES 5

MASTER/DAILY SCHEDULE 6

FACULTY AND STAFF 7

CAMPUS POLICIES 9

ACADEMIC POLICIES 21

CORE VALUES AND DISCIPLINE 23

DISCIPLINE ACTION LEVELS 25

GENERAL RULES 29

FACILITY AND RESOURCES 32

GENERAL SCHOOL POLICIES 33

VI. ATHLETICS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 34

COUNSELING SERVICES OFFERED ?

WEATHER AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 38

HEALTH OFFICE 40

APPENDIX I 42

APPENDIX II 43

VISTA PEAK STUDENT HELP LINES 45

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WELCOME

WELCOME Vista PEAK Explore FAMILES!!! It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the

Vista PEAK P-20 Campus! The staff at Vista PEAK are excited and honored to have you with us for the 2013-2014 school year. Our innovative and progressive program is designed on the belief that: “Education must be real-world and relevant, innovative and connected; where staff and students thrive with choice and responsibility; to cultivate creativity and invention.” The Vista PEAK Campus Vision: “To ensure every student who enters the Vista PEAK Campus graduates with a high school diploma, college credits and/or degrees, industry credentials and certifications in order to be successful in postsecondary and workforce experiences.”

This year the Vista PEAK Exploratory building will house PreK-8 grade students. Very soon we will be introducing our

first graduating class of 2014 and grow into the P-20 model as it was designed! It is amazing to see how much we have

accomplished in such a short period of time.

Important Updates for the 2013-14 school year are as follows:

The first day of school for Explore students grades 1st-8th is August 8th, Pre-K August 12 and KindergartenAugust 13th.

Back to School Night: Aug. 15th 6-7:30. Please sign up for regular e-mail updates by visiting our website at http://vistapeak.aurorak12.org) and

clicking the “GET E-MAIL UPDATES” button at the bottom of the page LIKE US on Facebook for additional updates, for a chance to win free Bison gear, and to have access to VP

multi-media marketing and networking: http://www.facebook.com/vistapeakcampus Join the PTSA! Contact PTSA President Stacey Ivey today for info about meeting dates and times:

[email protected]

Visit our website (http://vistapeak.aurorak12.org) today to see a detailed overview of the Vista PEAK Campus, read frequently asked questions about P-20 Education, and learn more about our unique Career and Academic Pathways Program.

http://vistapeak.aurorak12.org/

http://www.facebook.com/vistapeakcampus

mailto:[email protected]

http://vistapeak.aurorak12.org/

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OVERVIEW

The Vista PEAK Educational Campus Vision

To ensure every student who enters the Vista PEAK Campus graduates with a high school diploma, college credits

and/or degrees, industry credentials and certifications in order to be successful in postsecondary and workforce

experiences.

The Vista PEAK Philosophy

Education is real world and relevant, innovative and connected; where staff and students thrive with choice and

responsibility; to cultivate creativity and invention.

Core Tenets

Real World: Authentic learning experiences including real life situations, with real people, in real time, and

socially significant.

Relevant: Meaningful learning experiences applicable to one’s interests and goals.

Innovative: One’s ability to approach issues and situations in new ways which challenge the status quo.

Connected: Authentic audiences intentionally linked together.

Choice: Multiple options are developmentally appropriate learning experiences and allow for personalization.

Responsibility: Each individual has the ability to make decisions empowering oneself and the community

around him or her.

Creativity: The ability to use the imagination to artistically and originally express oneself.

Invention: Providing a predictable environment where the unpredictable can occur.

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GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Rigorous

To create an academic culture requiring students’ best effort daily, expecting all students to succeed, and

supporting their efforts to do so.

To create an academic culture requiring students to use rigorous thinking skills and the ability to make

connections.

To create an academic culture, requiring students to demonstrate persistence, stamina, adaptability and

socially aware.

To create an academic culture requiring students to be self-directed and advocate for oneself in order to create

a multi-dimensional life resume.

To develop thinkers who can engage in broad, adventurous thinking

To assess student learning in a variety of ways and allows students to demonstrate mastery on content

standards and postsecondary and workforce readiness skills.

Integrated

To allow time and opportunity for multi-disciplinary planning in order to be intentional in making connections

for students across content areas.

To provide students with contextual learning experiences in order to make connections for students between

what they are learning in class and the real world context.

To effectively use technology as a tool to enhance learning and integrate it across disciplines.

To create an environment where instruction or learning is not limited to the teacher but also includes parents,

community members and industry professionals.

Personalized

To create a community where each student is known and supported to achieve his/her potential.

To instill in students the desire and the knowledge of how to pursue independent learning

through career and academic pathways, field experiences and many opportunities to apply

learning in authentic environments.

To teach with the aim of producing outstanding individual student learning results, not to adhere to

a particular pedagogical philosophy that dictates how we teach.

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BE MASTER SCHEDULE EXPLORATORY 2013-14NCH C-- ANAL., ALG. 2, US His

M, T, R, F

KG 1st 2nd

8:20-10:40 Academics 8:20-11:00 Academics 8:20-11:40 Academics

10:40-11:15 Lunch 11:00-11:35 Lunch 11:40-12:15 Lunch 11:20-12:30 LD, Skills 11:40-2:20 Academics 12:20-1:25 Academics 12:30-1:20 Exploratories 2:20-3:10 Exploratories 1:25-2:15 Exploratories 1:25-3:15 Academics 2:20-3:15 Academics

3rd 4th 5th

8:20-11:05 Academics 8:20-10:10 Academics 8:20-9:10 Exploratories

11:05-11:55 Exploratories 10:10-11:00 Exploratories 9:15-10:05 LD, Skills

12:40-1:15 Lunch 11:05-12:20 Academics 10:10-11:20 Core 1

1:00-3:15 Academics 12:20-12:55 Lunch 11:20-11:55 Lunch

1:00-3:15 Academics 12:00-1:05 Core 2

1:05-2:10 Core 3 2:10-3:15 Core 4

6th 7th 8th

8:20-9:10 Exploratories 8:20-9:10 ELD/Enrichment 8:20-9:10 ELD/Enrichment

9:15-10:05 LD, Skills 9:15-10:05 Exploratories 9:15-10:05 Exploratories

10:10-11:15 Core 1 10:10-11:15 Core 1 10:10-11:15 Core 1 11:17-12:00 Core 2 11:17-12:25 Core 2 11:17-12:25 Core 2 12:00-12:35 Lunch 12:27-1:05 Core 3 12:27-1:30 Core 3 12:40-1:03 Core 2 1:05-1:40 Lunch 1:30-2:05 Lunch 1:05-2:10 Core 3 1:45-2:10 Core 3 2:10-3:15 Core 4 2:12-3:15 Core 4 2:12-3:15 Core 4

Lunch Kinder 10:40-11:15

1st 11:00-11:35

5th 11:20-11:55

2nd 11:40-12:15

6th 12:00-12:35

4th 12:20-12:55

3rd 12:40-1:15

7th 1:05-1:40

8th 1:30-2:05

tory Lunch C--11th Hybrid, 11th Lit., Econ., Chem., AP Bio., POE, Alg. 2, US

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Hist.

FACULTY AND STAFF

PRE-SCHOOL

Michelle Gould -

facilitator

Ivory Williams -

facilitator

Melissa Golden -

facilitator

Amanda Esa – PreK

Para

Carolyn Evans – PreK

Para

Isidra Tabb – Prek Para

Janet Anderson- Special

Education Teacher,

Pre-K

KINDERGARTEN

Mary Pat Reddick

Katie Corson

Arianne Mazzotta

Darrah Gardner

Stacey Ivey

Lindsey Watt

1ST GRADE

William Simpson

Stacey Rhuby

Kory Jensen

Abigail Bartolomeo

Leslie Burton

Kari Stevens

5th GRADE

Tracey Harbinson -

SStudies

Cecilia Coats - Lit

6th GRADE

Thuy Huyhn- Math

Alissa Ulitsky - Lit

Thomas Yondorf - Lit

Melissa Shank Lit/Drama

Tracey Harbinson -

SStudies

7th GRADE

Kathie Sykes - Math

Robert Hultman - Lit

Jessica Cuthbertson – Lit

Erika Irvin - Lit

Lucia Gaspar-Domingo -

Science

8th Grade

Jessica Sawyer- Lit/SS

Lucia Gaspar-Domingo -

Science

Heather Eagen – Math/SS

Kate Ferrell – Lit

Joe Davidson-Lit

Micah Wiese - Math

DIRECTOR

Melanie Moreno

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

Karla Neely

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

AND ATHLETICS

Larry Thigpen

DEAN OF STUDENTS

Amie Seese

NURSE AND HEALTH

PARAPROFESIONAL

Julie Thigpen, Nurse

Robin Pulton, Health

Paraprofessional

ELA TEACHER LEADER

Anna Sommerhauser

INTERVENTIONISTS

Carrie Swanson (Literacy)

Vanessa Valencia (Literacy)

RTI COORDINATOR

Denise Bielz

COUNSELING

Andrea Yahner

Ms. Buntrock (Buckley)

TBD (.2)

OFFICE STAFF

Irma Ruiz – Office Manager

Meg Blair – Clerk

Lupita Maldonado, Clerk

Ana Lahowetz – Community

Outreach

PARAPROFESSIONALS

Jesus Valle, ELA

Corine Muehlhausen, EA

Tanya Crawford

Betty Jackson

Jordan Meyer

Stephanie Clement-Legg

Tiffany Luster

Chelsea Pardikes

Randy Savoren

Serena Taylor

Tibet Rowlette, Technology

EA

Charles Tansey, Media EA

CAFETERIA STAFF

Michelle Cox, Kitchen

Manager

Margaret Smith

Amador-Flores, Jesus

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2nd GRADE

Jessica LeClair

Abbey Cron

Kristin Hahn

Dana Sleeth

Mia Sparks

Deborah Butler

Denise Bielz/Kasia

Wasiak

3rd GRADE

Leslie Goldstein

Carrie Munson

Jennifer Gant

Danielle Hunter

Regina Strada

4rd GRADE

Ashley Inman

Kasandra Shawver

Amy Domokos

Amy Quick

Matthew Meagher

EXPLORATORIES

Adam Laughlin, Art

Yolanda Calderon, Music

Chris Magrin – PE

Andrea Kunz – PE

Kelly Ferguson, Spanish

Kim Culhane, Technology

Josh Brenning,

Entrepreneurship

Dana Zervas, Yoga

John Richard, Choir

Melissa Shank, Theatre

Arts

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Annette Maes – K-2nd

Kate Fouts – 3rd/4th

TBD – 5th/6th

Acadia Yondorf – 7th/8th

AUXILIARY STAFF

Erin Fawkes – Psychologist

Julie White -Psychologist

Amber Anderson -Speech

Pathologist

Heidi Littell – Speech

Pathologist

Gina Blaauw -Occupational

Therapy

Trina Boyd-Pratt, Teacher of the

Visually Impaired

Erin Kerr, Braille

DISTRICT COACHES

Kim Olszewski (literacy)

Renee Sherry (Math)

AFFECTIVE NEEDS

Christina Eubanks

Samantha Schafer

Johni Benda - Sped Para

Laura Winger - Sped Para

CUSTODIAL STAFF

Ken Sutton

Bill Burkholder

Chi Wong

Xaum Pham

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CAMPUS POLICIES

Asking Questions and Getting Answers at Vista Peak P-20 Campus

Asking Questions

Parents and educators both have a responsibility to do their part in creating a positive relationship. To develop a

productive relationship, parents with questions should follow the proper communication chain. If you have a question

or concern regarding your child, first meet with the teacher with whom you have the concern. This will save time,

eliminate misunderstanding, and get the answers you need. There are generally at least two sides to every story, and

it’s best to get as much information as possible to solve the problem.

If you cannot resolve the concern or get an answer to your satisfaction, then it is appropriate to proceed to the next

level, school administration.

Tips to Parents

Remember the following suggestions:

Expect your child to accept responsibility for his or her own behavior. Be prepared to be specific about what the problems or questions are and clearly state your needs. Show the school personnel the same respect and courtesy you expect. Be reasonable about time lines for response or resolutions. Commit to working toward a win-win resolution. Be aware that school personnel care about your children and share many of the same goals for them. Foster a positive, cooperative relationship without compromising your convictions. Be involved in your child’s education through regular, two-way communications. Often, effective

communication can diffuse a problem before it starts.

Access to Student Information

You are entitled to receive educational information related to your child including academic performance, behavior

records, and attendance records. From time to time, Aurora Public Schools personnel are asked to share student

information with someone other than the parent or guardian of the student. Simply stated, school personnel cannot

share information about a student with anyone except that student’s parent or guardian. This includes but is not

limited to contact information, information about a child’s academic performance, behavior, or behavior consequences.

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Animals at School

Since we cannot predict the behavior of animals around large groups of children, we ask that you not bring animals on

the school campus, even when dropping off and picking up students. Additionally, we have many students with

allergies and/or asthma who should not be around animals.

Arrival/Dismissal Procedures

A.M. Arrival Procedures

Drop students off at the designated area so they can walk to the playground area. All students enter the building

through the doors by the playground. Students should line up in the designated space for their class. Teachers will pick

students up outside promptly at the 8:15 take-up bell so that learning may begin by 8:20 on Mondays, Tuesdays,

Thursdays and Fridays. On Wednesdays the take-up bell will ring at 9:00 so that learning may begin by 9:05.

The time before classes each day is used by the staff for preparation, planning and meetings. Consequently, we

appreciate help in timing the departure of children from home so they arrive on the grounds no earlier than 15 minutes

before the bell rings (8:00 Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays and at 8:50 on Wednesdays), unless students are

eating breakfast and they may arrive no earlier than 30 minutes before the bell rings (7:45 Mondays, Tuesdays,

Thursdays, and Fridays and at 8:35 on Wednesdays).

Supervision of children outside of instructional periods is done by Paraeducators/Teachers and Administrators.

Outside supervision begins 15 minutes before school starts in the morning (8:00 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and

Fridays and at 8:50 on Wednesdays) and 30 minutes prior in the cafeteria for students who are eating breakfast.

Supervision of children prior to the time that adult supervision begins is the responsibility of the parent.

Unless students are eating breakfast or participating in an activity, children should not enter the building before school

except during inclement weather, 20 degrees or below including wind-chill. Students may be allowed to wait in the

building in these conditions, but no earlier than 15 minutes before starting time is recommended.

P.M. Dismissal Procedures

When excused from school at the end of the day, children are to leave the grounds and proceed directly home unless

they are involved in organized clubs, sports, or tutoring. Only students who are in a teacher sponsored club or sport

may stay after school.

Grades K-4

On a daily basis, classroom teachers will walk their entire class out exterior exit nearest the community, dropping off

bus students first, then walking to the designated parent pick up area on the East or West side of the building. All

students must be dismissed to a parent or an approved adult.

Grades 5-8

On a daily basis, classroom teachers will dismiss their students from their classrooms to walk to parent pick, buses or

afterschool activities. It is the responsibility of each 5th-8th grade student to get to their destination directly after the

last bell.

Supervision of students after school or off school grounds is the responsibility of the parent. Students are to be picked

up promptly at dismissal. If students are not picked up promptly after school, the school Director or his/her designee is

authorized to surrender the physical custody of the child to the Aurora Police Department.

High school students who pick up a sibling need to wait outside of the building until the dismissal bell rings. Parents,

please talk to your older child about complying with the same standards of behavior that apply to all Aurora Public

Schools.

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Parent Drop Off/Pick UP

Parents who are dropping off and picking up their students need to make sure they are doing this in the correct

designated area and not the bus loop. Parents may not get out of their car in the loading zone. If you wish to meet your

child by the school exit door, you must use designated parking spots. Vehicles left unattended in the fire lane will be

reported to APD. Please proceed slowly in the pick up/parking areas and also stop at crosswalks. Please be aware of

your surroundings and proceed with caution.

Dismissal During the School Day

Students will only be released by Office Staff to a parent, guardian, or other specified persons on emergency contact list.

Office staff will contact the student’s teacher to let him/her know that the student is leaving. The student will come

down to the office to be officially signed out. Only the Office Staff can release students to parents during the day.

Students will only be released to persons listed in Infinite Campus (IC) and presenting a photo I.D. Any parent trying to

pick of their child(ren) after 3:00 may need to wait until the bell rings at 3:15.

If there is a current restraining order that would prohibit a person from picking up or contacting a student at the school,

a copy needs to be on file in the school office. If there is no court order on file with the school, the school will assume

that none exists and will dismiss students according to information in Infinite Campus (IC).

Anyone coming to pick up a student during school hours must check in at the office—not the classroom—for security

reasons. It is important that the whereabouts of each student is known throughout the day. This is for the student’s

own protection. Parent/Guardians should make every effort to schedule medical/dental or any other appointments

after school hours. However, if an appointment is necessary during a school day please follow the procedures below:

1. Parent/Guardian report to office. For reasons of safety, student will only be released toparent/guardian/individuals listed in the Infinite Campus (IC) system or on the student’s emergency card.

2. Provide first and last name of student to clerk.3. Provide a picture ID.4. Sign the “Sign Out” sheet and provide information required.5. Students will not be allowed to meet or wait for parent/guardian in the parking lot.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

According to state law, it is the obligation of parents to ensure that every child under their care and supervision

receives adequate education and, of compulsory attendance age, attends school.

Good attendance is of paramount importance to academic performance and overall success of students. Absences,

whether excused or unexcused, are detrimental to the learning process. Regular attendance develops habits that are

essential for success. It is the joint responsibility of students, parents/guardians and schools to ensure regular

attendance. Excessive student absences may be symptomatic of problems, which necessitate joint efforts of the school,

student, home and community agencies.

Students enrolled in the Aurora Public Schools are required to attend classes, unless excused for good reason, in

accordance with the Colorado School Attendance Law (C.R.S. 22-33-101 and Article IX, Section 2 of the Colorado

Constitution). Therefore, in cases of excessive absences, the district will utilize community agencies as well as Truancy

court, in order to enforce regular attendance when student or parental/guardian responsibility has not been met.

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RESPONSIBILITIES

STUDENT

1) Attend school for all days of the adopted calendar

2) Be in class on time, prepared for academic work. Students who are late less than half of the class period will

be marked as “tardy.” Discipline will be assigned to students who have a pattern of habitual tardiness.

3) Contact teachers immediately upon returning from an absence to receive make-up assignments and deadlines

for completing them

4) Complete work as assigned by the teacher when a pre-arranged absence is required

5) Follow the established school procedure when enrolling in or withdrawing from class

6) Follow the established school procedure for arriving at school late or leaving early; specifically, you check-in

at the attendance office when arriving late, and you must be excused through the attendance office or nurse

and sign-out if leaving early

7) Be conscious of your attendance records and follow-up on needed corrections

8) Communicate with your parents so they call to excuse you according to the school's procedures

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PARENT

1) Ensure that the student is attending school. We recommend that parents access the Parent Portal on Infinite

Campus to frequently check their student’s attendance and grades.

2) Maintain communication with the student regarding attendance

3) Understand that any absence, regardless of the cause, has a detrimental influence on student achievement

4) Contact the school (using the appropriate procedure) regarding absences; specifically, call the attendance

office no later than 6 a.m. the day following the absence to excuse your student; only one parent error

will be corrected

5) In the case of extended home confinement, request make-up assignments

6) Monitor the make-up work of the student who has missed class

7) Follow the established school procedure when enrolling or withdrawing a student from school

8) Provide the school with the current and accurate telephone number or other means of contacting a

parent/guardian during the school day

TEACHER

1) Emphasize the value of regular and punctual attendance and support incentive programs

2) Take attendance daily and maintain accurate records

3) Report absences to the attendance office according to building procedures (i.e. Infinite Campus)

4) Check Infinite Campus daily to note truant students; counsel or refer as appropriate

5) Notify parents and appropriate school personnel of attendance concerns

6) Initiate attendance corrections when errors occur

7) Provide make-up assignments and reasonable deadlines for completion

COUNSELOR/ATTENDANCE CLERK

1) Provide counseling and support for students regarding attendance

2) Make appropriate contacts with students and parents concerning attendance

3) Ensure appropriate scheduling for students who are identified with special attendance needs

4) Help students identify and make decisions regarding education alternatives

5) Contact students in the Restorative Justice Room

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OFFICE STAFF

1) Record parent calls to excuse student absences

2) Initiate the automatic calling system to notify parents of a student's un-excused absence

3) Correct staff errors and one student/parent error per school year

4) Monitor the sign-in/sign-out sheet

DISTRICT ATTENDANCE OFFICER

1) May facilitate attendance review board meetings to address attendance and truancy concerns

2) Access community resources as appropriate

3) Assist the student and parent/guardian in developing strategies to improve the student’s attendance

ADMINISTRATORS

1) Notify parents, students and staff of Colorado attendance law, district attendance policy, level regulation, and

building procedures at the beginning of each year, or upon enrollment

2) Supervise and administer Colorado school attendance laws, district attendance policy, level regulations and

building policies, including those pertaining to habitually truant students

3) Assist the support staff with the implementation of attendance policy, level regulations, and building

procedures

4) Collaborate with outside agencies concerning attendance matters

NOTIFYING THE SCHOOL OF AN ABSENCE

Parents are to notify the attendance office on the day of the absence but no later than 6 a.m. the day following the

absence. There is an after-hours recorder (303-364-3757) to take calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

SCHOOL NOTIFICATION TO THE HOME

Vista PEAK will notify parents of a student's unverified absence via a computerized phone message. Parents will be

notified on the same day as the absence. Due to program limitations, the message cannot identify the student by name

or the period(s) the student was absent. Parents are encouraged to call the attendance office to verify the student's

name and the period(s) of absence. Occasionally, the attendance office staff will contact the parent to verify a reported

absence.

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EXCUSED ABSENCES

The following absences will be considered excused:

1) Illness/injury documented by the student’s parent/guardian.

2) Appointments/serious circumstances which cannot be resolved before or after school hours. To the extent

possible, the parent/guardian is encouraged to notify the school in advance.

3) A student’s request to participate in extracurricular experiences outside of the school building may be

approved for up to five days under certain circumstances and on a case-by-case basis.

4) A student’s parent/guardian may request approval from an administrator for an excused absence to attend to

family business/family vacation (e.g. wedding, family trip). This excused absence is not to exceed three days

per year and student must be in good academic standing (passing all classes), no unexcused absences, and

have four or fewer excused absences in a semester.

5) A student’s parent/guardian may request approval for an absence to be excused to attend a funeral. This

absence shall not exceed three day. Approval shall be left to the discretion of the building administration.

6) Absences due to suspension are considered to be excused for the purposes of truancy.

NO EXCUSED ABSENCES WHILE ON CAMPUS

Once students have arrived on campus, they are expected to be at their scheduled class. If students are absent from

class and are on campus, they will be considered truant. Only a school administrator, counselor or the nurse can excuse

the absence.

This procedure ensures school officials and the parent of the student's whereabouts, makes for good communication

with staff and parents and ensures the safety of the student.

UN-EXCUSED ABSENCES

1) Students will be considered truant or un-excused if they are absent from class without the prior knowledge

and approval of their parent or guardian.

2) Students will also be considered truant if they leave school grounds without signing out and without the

attendance office being notified by a parent BEFORE the student leaves.

3) Students who leave class without the teacher's permission will be considered truant.

4) Absences not excused by a parent or guardian before 6 a.m. the day following the absence will be considered

unexcused. Only one call per parent each year will be accepted beyond this deadline.

A court petition may be filed when the student has been deemed to be habitually truant and when interventions have

been unsuccessful at changing the student’s behavior. A judicial officer will take action as he/she deems appropriate.

HABITUAL TRUANCY

According to Colorado attendance law, students who are truant the equivalency of three school days in any one month

or ten school days during any school year are defined as "habitually truant."

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Tardy and Early Pick up POLICY CHANGE

Tardies Excused tardies consist of the following:

Illness

Doctor/Dentist appointment (Please bring a Dr’s note)

Extreme family emergency (shall be excused on a case-by-case basis)

All other reasons will be considered unexcused and will be treated as unexcused tardies. Students will be allowed 5

unexcused tardies/early pick-ups per quarter. On the 6th unexcused (accumulated during one quarter)

tardy/early pick up the student will serve lunch detention. We will begin counting tardies as of February 19th.

Please show your child the importance of arriving early and being ready to learn by getting them to school on time, or

waking them up with plenty of time to get to the bus stop.

Tardy Student Drop Off

For security purposes, when dropping off a tardy student, please check them in at the front office and allow them to

walk to class by themselves.

Early Pick Ups

All early releases must be excused. Excused early pick-ups consist of the following circumstances:

1. Illness—All students who are being picked up early due to illness, must have been seen by the school nurse.

2. Doctor appointment—All doctor appointments (for early pick-ups) will be excused only if a doctor note is provided. Please make sure to pick up a note from your doctor and have your child bring it to the front office the next morning. If no note is received, then the early pick up will be left as unexcused.

3. Extreme Family Emergency

All other reasons will be considered unexcused and will be treated as unexcused tardies. Students are allowed

5 unexcused tardies/early pick-ups per quarter. On the 6th unexcused (accumulated during one quarter)

tardy/early pick up the student will serve lunch detention. We will begin counting unnecessary early releases

as of February 19th.

Students will be called out of class when the parent is present in the office!

End of the day Student Pick up

For security purposes, we ask that parents please wait outside in the designated areas to pick up their

child/ren. Please do not wait in the front office.

REQUESTS FOR HOMEWORK

Students requiring homework assignments due to extended excused absences (three days or more) should contact the

teacher(s) via email or directly if access to email is unavailable. Teachers will gather assignments and bring them to the

17

office if the assignment can be made up. Typically, many assignments are done in class collaboratively and are hands-

on projects. Not all assignments can be made up. Assignments should be ready for pick up 24 hours after a request has

been made. Please come by the office to pick them up or if the assignment is virtual it can be done remotely.

MAKE-UP WORK DURING ABSENCES

Any time a student misses a class for any reason whatsoever, that student will be expected to contact each teacher and

complete the make-up work in order to achieve the learning objective. This includes field trips, school activities,

suspensions, group sessions, truancies, and the like. Make-up work is required and students who have been absent

from class must request make-up work from the teacher no later than the next class meeting. Teachers will determine a

reasonable amount of time for make-up work when students are absent, using a two days for every one day absent

guideline.

Teachers may provide an "alternative" learning experience for make-up work to any student who requests it upon

returning to class. For example, a student may have been absent from a class at which the daily learning objective was

achieved by means of a class discussion. At the teacher's sole discretion, students who were absent during that

discussion might be assigned a two or three-page written essay due three or four days after the student's return to class

as an 'alternative' learning experience for that objective.

Teachers will give academic credit to all make-up work that complies with the above guidelines. The only exception is

that teachers have the choice whether or not to give academic credit to the make-up work from an unexcused absence.

If the absence was unexcused, the teacher should provide feedback but is not required to give credit for the work.

EXCESSIVE ABSENCES

The automated attendance line will notify parents and appropriate school personnel of any student's excessive

absences. In order to simplify the policy, remember an ABSENCE IS AN ABSENCE. Students who miss class and are

excused or unexcused, for field trips, in-house suspensions, out of school suspensions, counselor visits, nurse visits or

trips to the office are considered absent. ALL ABSENCES ARE APPLICABLE TO THE RULES OF MAKE-UP WORK.

For more information regarding student attendance, please refer to Aurora Public Schools policy JE and regulation JE-R

at http://www.aps.k12.co.us/pol-reg/index.html

ARRIVAL: Students should arrive no earlier than 7:00 a.m. unless you are eating breakfast or prior arrangements have

been made with a staff member.

DISMISSAL: A student’s activities, behavioral status, and tutoring/academic commitments will determine their

dismissal time.

Classroom Parties and Food

Classrooms may have 3 parties per school year. The classroom teacher may contact parents to assist in the

planning. Parties will last 30 minutes. All treats must be pre-packaged foods. No homemade goods of any

kind can be distributed. Birthday parties may be allowed in some classrooms and will happen in the last 15

http://www.aps.k12.co.us/pol-reg/index.html

18

minutes of the school day. In lieu of celebrating your child’s birthday with a party and treats, consider

donating a book to the school library in your child’s honor.

DRESS CODE

The purpose of the Vista PEAK dress code is to create a professional, safe and respectful community where students can

place their sole focus on learning. The dress code is in effect from the start of the school day until the student is finished

with all their requirements of the day. The Dress Code will be enforced at all times students are in the building. See

Appendix II for the dress code.

THE FACULTY AND STAFF OF Vista PEAK RESERVE THE SOLE RIGHT TO INTERPRET AND ENFORCE THE

STUDENT DRESS CODE.

Please Note: A phone call home for appropriate clothing to be brought to school for the student, or the student being sent

home for failure to comply is solely determined by the Vista PEAK Administration. Repeat dress code violations will

result in disciplinary action.

Homework

Vista Peak K-8 staff recognizes that homework can serve an important role in the education process.

Homework should be regarded as an opportunity to provide independent practice of skills learned during

class time, enrichment activities and application of specific skills, knowledge and facts. Recognizing that

classroom instruction and interaction are the essential pieces of a student’s learning, homework serves as an

additional support to what occurs in the classroom.

Assignments can serve as a means of providing a bond of common effort between parent, student and

teacher. Homework provides parents with an opportunity to impact their child’s learning through one on

one feedback.

All Vista Peak K-8 staff members will notify parents and students of homework requirements as well as

where to access information for daily/weekly assignments (i.e., homework hotline, student planner,

classroom website, homework folders, etc.). The access to homework information will vary depending on

grade level and classroom teacher. At a minimum, students might expect the following amount of

homework:

Regardless of age, nightly reading is recommended.

1st/2nd grade- 20 minutes per night

3rd grade- 30 minutes per night

4th grade- 45 minutes per night

5th-8th grade- 60-90 minutes total per night (individual teachers will limit their particular assignments to 20-

30 minutes per night when assigning homework)

Lunch and Breakfast Program

Each child is given a keypad number that will be entered by the child on the keypad when the child comes in

for breakfast/lunch. This keypad number identifies the child’s account, so it is important for the child to

learn the number as quickly as possible. These numbers are confidential and should not be shared with

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friends. Children are also encouraged to pay for their meals in the morning before school starts so they will

have optimum time to eat lunch.

Parents or students are encouraged to purchase daily meals or multiple-day meals. Checks need to include

the child’s first and late name, room number, and keypad number to make processing easier. A $.50 discount

is given with a purchase of 10 meals. Personal checks should be made payable to Aurora Public Schools. We

also have an on-line meal payment program that is easy and convenient. Go to www.paypams.com. You will

need your child’s keypad number to deposit money on-line. If you would like more information, please call

Nutrition Services at 303-343-0295, extension 28551.

The child’s hand is stamped with an appropriate message when the student has one meal remaining and

when the student has used the last meal. Other forms of communication may be used instead of a hand

stamp. The student is allowed and encouraged to call a parent or guardian if he or she has used the last meal

on a multiple-day purchase or is out of money.

Money may be taken out of a sibling’s account to cover a meal if the student informs the cashier that there is

a sibling attending that school. Also, a parent can request a historical printout of their child’s account at any

time throughout the school year.

Students cannot charge meals or snacks. If students do not have money in their account, they will be given a

fruit, vegetable, and milk free of charge. If this continues over an extended period of time, a free/reduced

meal application will be sent home with the student.

The Nutrition Services staff will make a note of students who demonstrate a pattern of being without meal

money and will call to counsel parents or guardians regarding the issue and possible alternatives, including

the availability of free and reduced meal programs.

Breakfast:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 7:45-8:05

Wednesdays: 8:35-8:55

Cost of Breakfast and Lunch

Kindergarten – 4th Grades

The regular cost of a student breakfast is $.90. The regular cost of a student lunch is $1.95. The reduced

price for lunch is $.40.

5th – 8th Grades The regular cost of a student breakfast is $1.15. The regular cost of a student lunch is $2.45.

The reduced price for lunch is $.40.

PARENTS/GUARDIANS AND VISITORS

All parents and visitors must sign-in and sign-out at the front desk when they enter or leave the building. Parents are

requested to give 24 hour notice prior to the visit to allow proper accommodations. Parents/guardians are expected to

abide by the school’s visitor rules and core values in all their interactions with faculty, staff, administration, and other

http://www.paypams.com/

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parents and students. Parents/guardians will be asked to leave the school campus if the school’s core values are not

practiced. Parent/guardians and visitors are asked to refrain from using their cell phones inside of the building.

Recess Guidelines

It is an expectation that students well enough to be in school are well enough to participate in all activities,

including outdoor recess. It is suggested that children be dressed for the changeable Colorado weather. Current

weather conditions will determine whether or not students are sent outside. Outdoor recess will be held if the

temperature is about 20 degrees or above. The decision for recess will also be based on weather conditions at the

school site.

STUDENT TELEPHONE USAGE

In order to limit disruption to the classroom, students will not be called to the telephone except in cases of extreme

emergency. With permission from a member of the staff, students may use the office telephone to make necessary

phone calls with permission from the Office Manager. Students are prohibited from using their cell phones anytime

during the academic day (classroom, hallways and bathrooms) or unless directed by a teacher. Students are allowed to

use their phones and technology during lunch and recess only.

Valuables at School

School personnel will not be responsible for any valuables brought to school.

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ACADEMIC POLICIES

ACADEMIC EFFORT

Vista PEAK strives to create an environment of academic rigor that will prepare students to excel in college and life

beyond. Consistently living the core value of “doing your best” is critical to academic success at Vista PEAK. The school

expects that each student will give their best effort daily with all academic work. Homework: Vista PEAK will assign

homework to students on an as needed basis and with the discretion from the teacher. The homework will be

meaningful and will serve an important purpose of extending the learning that goes on in the classroom. Homework has

academic benefits as well as developmental benefits. It helps develop students’ responsibility, time management skills

and independent problem solving skills. The development of these skills is essential to a student’s success at Vista PEAK

and to excelling in college. Each night, students are expected to complete all homework in a thorough manner paying

attention to detail and quality. Parents must be aware and supportive of their child’s efforts with homework. Parents

are expected to actively check and review their child’s homework each night and to let teachers know if their child is

struggling with homework. Parents may assist students with their homework, but should never do it for them. Before

sending off your child to school each morning, parents should review their child’s homework for quality and

completeness in order to plan accordingly.

STANDARDS BASED GRADING The primary goal of a standards based system is for all students to meet the

standards and to be competent and proficient in all aspects of the curriculum. The primary purpose of grades is to

communicate student achievement to students, parents, postsecondary institutions and future employers. The

secondary purpose of grades is to provide teachers and administrators with information critical to instructional

planning.

Grades are sometimes broken when they do not accurately reflect a student’s understanding or accurately

communicate student achievement. Grades need to reflect the student performance in mastering district/statewide

goals and student’s personal academic goals.

Grades should accurately depict what students know, understand and can do as a result of their learning. Learning is a

process in which learners are always acquiring new knowledge and skills and can apply this knowledge in many

contexts.

FLUID MOVEMENT:

When a parent/teacher believes a student needs a fluid movement placement we will use the procedures: · Parent/teacher recommends fluid movement and a meeting is set up with teacher/parent/administrator and

instructional coach · The team will determine what will be used for a Body of Evidence to determine if fluid movement is

appropriate · Teacher and/or instructional coach will collect the Body of Evidence and schedule another meeting with

parent/teacher/administrator and instructional coach to discuss results to determine appropriate placement of student.

If placement is changed the administrator will follow-up with the Director of Operations and Athletics to adjust the students schedule.

22

Report Cards and Progress Reports

Report Cards

All kindergarten through eighth grade students will receive a quarterly report card which reflects the

current APS K-8 report card structure. The following identifiers will be used in each content area:

unsatisfactory (U), partially proficient (PP), proficient (P), and advanced (A). Written comments will

minimally communicate one developmentally appropriate strength and one next step in reading, writing,

and math.

PROGRESS REPORTS

6th-8th grade students will also receive a brief progress report at mid-quarter indicating proficiency levels

and any areas of concern in the core content areas. Progress reports will be mailed to parents, therefore, it is

imperative that we have your current mailing address on file.

PARENT / TEACHER CONFERENCES

(10/9, 10/10, 1/15, 1/16, 4/16 and 4/17) from 4:00-7:30.

Each quarter, parents have an opportunity to receive an update on their child’s academic progress during Parent /

Teacher Conferences. Teachers will share with parent’s information about the student’s progress, skills, attendance,

and grade, as well as preview upcoming assignments. It’s a good opportunity for parents to collect information and

work collaboratively with the teacher to help the student succeed.

23

CORE VALUES AND DISCIPLINE

The Vista PEAK community is founded on the school’s three core values: respect, responsibility and safety. The core

values provide students with the opportunity for self-improvement, individual growth and character development. The

core values define our rules and behavioral expectations. Consistently living these core values is expected of all

students for their benefit and the benefit of the entire school community. Students are encouraged to support their

peers in adhering to the Core Values. School authorities have the right and responsibility to manage student conduct

and create an orderly and safe learning environment. Conduct which disrupts learning or threatens to disrupt the

operation of the school, which interferes with the rights and privileges of students or other citizens, which endangers

the health, safety or welfare of any person, or which damages property will not be tolerated. Vista PEAK’s core values

are designed to initiate a set of specific rules and consequences. This set is neither exhaustive nor inflexible. Situations

and circumstances of all natures occur and cannot be predicted. It is expected that any situations will be handled with

common sense and in a manner consistent with the guidelines and policies established herein. It is believed that mutual

respect should determine behavior, learning and appropriate punishment. The school’s core values and resulting

behavioral expectations are in effect at school or on school grounds, at school sanctioned activities or events, or while

being transported by school approved vehicles, or at school functions/activities occurring off school property. Any

violation of school rules during these times will subject a student and/or conspirator to disciplinary measures and/or

notification of law enforcement authorities

CORE STUDENT BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

Students agree to comply with all APS Safe Schools Policies & Regulations

RESPECT

Students are expected to respect Vista PEAK staff and their peers and support the teaching and learning expectations of

the school. Students communicate this respect through their appropriate actions, words, voice tone, and body language.

Student behavior that is unacceptable includes: bullying of peers, offensive language and gestures, talking back or

disrespecting a staff member, ignoring or refusing to complete a staff request, or disrupting a class or another student’s

learning. Threatening, slandering, sexually harassing, stealing or fighting are unacceptable behaviors under any

circumstance.

RESPONSIBILITY

Students are expected to take responsibility for their behavior, actions, and commitments to themselves and the

community. Students assume the responsibility of abiding by all school rules. Student must be on time to all classes and

other school activities. When a student takes an inappropriate action or makes a poor choice, that student is expected to

take full responsibility for his/her behavior.

SAFETY

Students must be safe in all interactions with adults and peers. Students who fail to live these core values by exhibiting

one or more of the unacceptable behaviors listed above will be subject to the discipline process and appropriate

consequences outlined in this handbook. Violations of the District Conduct and Discipline Code shall subject the violator to

discipline consistent with these policies. Violations may also result in referrals to law enforcement agencies.

24

GENERAL CATEGORIES OF MISCONDUCT

By Colorado law, a student may be suspended or expelled for behavior which constitutes any of the following:

A. Continued willful disobedience or open and persistent defiance of proper authority;

B. Willful destruction or defacing of school property;

C. Behavior on or off school property which is detrimental to the welfare or safety of other pupils or of school

personnel, including behavior which creates a threat of physical harm to the child or other children;

D. Serious violations in a school building or in or on school property, including but not limited to,

1. Carrying, bringing, using or possessing a dangerous weapon (as that term is defined in section 22-33-106[1][d],

Colorado Revised Statutes) or bringing a firearm (as that term is defined in 18 United States Code Section 921(a)(3)) to

school without the authorization of the school or the district;

2. The sale of a "drug" or "controlled substance" (as those terms are defined in section 12-22-303, Colorado Revised

Statutes);

3. The commission of an act by a student at least 10 years of age which, if committed by an adult would be robbery

pursuant to title 18, article 4, part 3 of the Colorado Revised Statutes; and

4. The commission of an act by a student at least 10 years of age which, if committed by an adult would be assault

pursuant to title 18, article 3, part 2 of the Colorado Revised Statutes (other than third degree assault).

E. Declaration as an "habitually disruptive student", (which is defined in this regulation); and/or

F. Repeated interference with a school's ability to provide educational opportunities to other students.

NOTE: Where a student commits acts outlined in D-1 through D-4 or is declared to be a "habitually disruptive student,"

EXPULSION IS MANDATORY under Colorado law.

SPECIFIC EXAMPLES OF MISCONDUCT

If discipline is suspension or expulsion, the due process procedures of district policy JKD/JKE,

Suspension/Expulsion of Students will be followed. Where the proposed discipline is expulsion,

a student is entitled to a hearing under policy JKD/JKE at which s/he may contest the finding that an offense was

committed and/or the consequences. This list does not cover everything that a student might do which could result in

discipline; it is meant to identify many of the offenses, which might be committed by students, and to illustrate the sort

of conduct, which is not allowed.

Individual schools may identify additional offenses and outline consequences for such offenses so long as they are not

inconsistent with district policy and the school takes appropriate steps to inform students and parents/guardians of

these additional offenses and consequences.

Schools are encouraged to consider which of the consequences listed in the discipline action levels below are most

appropriate for a given situation but are not required to utilize any specific disciplinary consequence except where

specifically so provided in district policy or regulation.

25

DISCIPLINE ACTION LEVELS

Vista PEAK

Possible Consequences for Level 2 and Level 3 Inappropriate Behavior

Consequences may vary depending on seriousness of infraction and age of child.

Please refer to Aurora Public Schools Safe Schools Policies and Regulations for additional information

Behavior First Offense Second Offense Repeated Offenses

Continued willful

disobedience

(Refusal to comply with a

reasonable request)

Conference w/student

Exclusion from extra-

curricular activities

Office detention

Work detail

Structured day

Minor suspension (up to 24

hours)

Work detail



Office detention

Saturday School

Structured day

Out of school suspension w/

legal referral

Defiance

(Disobedience w/a

serious verbal challenge

or challenge of some

other kind)

Minor suspension (up to 24

hours)

Work detail




Office detention

Saturday School

Structured day

Out of school suspension (1-

3 days)



Work detail

Structured day


legal referral

Continued disruption of

learning


Office detention

Saturday School



Work detail

Structured day

Out of school suspension

Work detail



Structured day


legal referral

Profanity towards an

student/adult


Work detail



Office detention

Saturday School


Structured day

Out of school suspension Out of school suspension w/

legal referral

26

Racial Slurs

(Racially derogatory verbal,

written, or pictorial

comments)



Office detention

Saturday School


Work detail

Structured day

Apology


Work detail



Office detention

Structured day

Parent contact


legal referral

Academic Dishonesty


Parent contact



Office detention

Saturday School

Work detail


Work detail




Dishonesty




Office detention

Saturday School

Work detail


Work detail




Misuse of computers and/or

internet




Office detention

Saturday School

Work detail


Technology restriction


Technology restriction


Permanent restriction from

computer use, if enrolled

in a computer class may

be withdrawn

Destruction or vandalism of

school property

Destruction or vandalism of

another student’s property




Office detention

Work detail

Saturday school


Legal referral



Work detail


Legal referral


Expulsion

Legal referral

Theft Conference w/student



Office detention

Saturday school

Work detail


Legal referral



Work detail


Legal referral


Expulsion

Legal referral

27

False fire alarm


Apology letter to fire

department, school

Office detention

Saturday School


Student and parent to meet

w/fire department

Legal referral


Expulsion

Legal referral

Fighting

(or 3rd

degree assault)

Intent of making physical contact

Making physical contact


Legal referral


Expulsion

Legal referral


Expulsion

Legal referral

Assault

(other than 3rd

degree)

Intent of bodily injury

Refer to Safe Schools

Policies and Regulations

Encouraging or inciting a fight

or assault


Legal referral

Work detail



Structured day

Office referral

Saturday school


Legal referral


Expulsion

Legal referral

Threatening/Intimidation


Saturday school

Work detail



Structured Day


Legal referral


Expulsion

Legal referral

Sexual Harassment Out of school suspension

Legal referral

Work detail



Structured day

Conference with student

Office detention

Saturday school


Legal referral

Work detail



Structured day


Office detention

Saturday school


Expulsion

Legal referral

Racial Harassment Out of school suspension

Work detail



Structured day


Office detention

Saturday school


Legal referral

Work detail



Structured day


Office detention

Saturday school


Expulsion

Legal referral

28

Gang activity/Apparel Conference w/student

Office detention

Saturday school


Legal referral

Work detail




Legal referral

Expulsion

Possession or use of

dangerous weapon

Refer to Safe Schools


Use of an object as a weapon

to threaten or harm another


Legal referral

Expulsion

Work detail



Contact parents


Structured day

Office detention

Saturday school


Legal referral

Expulsion


Legal referral

Expulsion

Possession of potentially

dangerous objects

Examples of, but not limited

to :

Pocket knives

Lighters

Fire crackers


Legal referral

Expulsion

Call to parents


Office detention

Structured day


Legal referral

Expulsion


Legal referral

Expulsion

Possession, use of or under

influence of alcohol, drugs, or

other controlled substances


Work detail



Legal referral


Legal referral

Expulsion


Legal referral

Expulsion

Sale or purchase of drugs Refer to Safe Schools


Possession, use, or sale of

tobacco products


Legal referral

Expulsion

Work detail




Legal referral

Expulsion


Legal referral

Expulsion

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GENERAL RULES

FOOD

Food cannot be eaten outside of the Vista PEAK Cafe unless approved by a staff member. Students are not allowed to

order food delivery unless approved by a staff member. Students are not allowed to bring food for more than two

people unless approved by a staff member. Grade level teachers will direct one snack time a day.

ROLLER-BLADES, SKATEBOARDS, ETC.

Roller-skates/blades, skateboards and scooters are not to be ridden on school property unless prior approval from a

staff member.

VISTA PEAK CAFE

Our Core Values form the basis for behavior in the Vista PEAK Cafe with the addition of the rules listed below: 1)

Students must clean the table, bench, and floor of their individual eating area before being dismissed.

2) Students must only sit on the seats. 3) Students must speak quietly and use proper table manners.

DRUGS, ALCOHOL OR TOBACCO

Student use, possession, distribution, or sale of alcohol, tobacco or illicit drugs is prohibited on school grounds, at any

school-sanctioned activities, when students are being transported in school sponsored vehicles, or at any time or in any

place where the student’s conduct interferes with or obstructs the educational program or operations of the school, or

the health, safety or welfare of students or employees. A student violation of this policy will lead to a suspension,

reporting to authorities, and/or a recommendation for expulsion, as required by law, or at the discretion of the school.

If a student receives a suspension for a first violation of this policy, a student may be required to enroll in a

rehabilitation/counseling program at the sole cost of the family. The family, when appropriate, will be required to

report back with an assessment, diagnosis and treatment plan as a condition for re-admittance into the school. A second

violation of this policy may lead to an expulsion hearing.

WEAPONS

Guns, knives, explosives, or weapons of any type are not permitted in the school, on the campus, anywhere on the

premises, and at any off-campus school related activities or events. Violations will lead to the Aurora Police

involvement and possible expulsion. Items that appear to be weapons are banned as well.

30

GANG AFFILIATION

This policy has been adopted pursuant to the requirements of state law, in recognition of the fact that gang activities at

school impose a threat to the welfare and safety of students and others in the school community. The term “gang” as

used in this policy refers to all groups of three or more individuals who share a common interest, bond, or activity

characterized by criminal, delinquent, or otherwise disruptive conduct engaged in collectively or individually.

The purpose of this policy is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of those in the school community and to prevent

the initiation or continuation of gang membership and gang activity in our school.

Prohibited gang affiliation or appearance includes: Any manner of grooming or apparel, including clothing, jewelry,

hats, emblems, and badges which by virtue of color, arrangement, trademark, or other attribute is associated with or

denotes membership in or affiliation with any gang will not be allowed in school buildings or on school grounds, at

school sanctioned activities and events, or while being transported in school approved vehicles. Gestures, signals, or

graffiti, which denote gang membership or activities are prohibited in the school building and on school grounds, at

school-sanctioned activities and events, and while being transported in school, approved vehicles. The prohibition on

gang-related apparel and actions will be applied at the discretion of the staff at Vista PEAK. Consequences will be

applied according to the circumstances of the infraction and may include suspension or expulsion. Vista PEAK will

communicate with law enforcement regarding this policy in order to further its purposes.

STUDENT SEARCHES

School property is under the control of the school. A search of school property (including but not limited to lockers and

vehicles parked on school property) may be made at the discretion of the school administration if a reasonable

suspicion arises that items considered illegal, disruptive, or a general nuisance to the educational process are being kept

at school. School authorities may also search a student’s person and/or personal property, desk area, backpack

whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that a student is in possession of illegal or

unauthorized materials. School officials will detain a student if there is a reasonable suspicion that a student has drugs,

narcotics, weapons, explosives, or other dangerous contraband in his possession, and if such possession constitutes a

clear and imminent danger to the safety and welfare of the student, other persons, or school property. Furthermore,

school officials will notify parents and the appropriate law enforcement agency of illegal possession of such materials.

PHYSICAL RESTRAINT

Corporal punishment is defined as action taken by school employees to spank or otherwise physically handle a student

in any way to purposely inflict punishment. No corporal punishment will be administered to students by anyone in the

school. Physical restraint and intervention or force by trained staff is reasonable and appropriate for the following

purposes: 1. To restrain a student from an act of wrongdoing. 2. To quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to

others. 3. To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects upon a student or within the control of a student.

4. For the purpose of self-defense. 5. For the protection of persons or property. 6. For the preservation of order. Any

such acts are not in conflict with the legal definition of child abuse and will not be construed to constitute corporal

punishment within the meaning and intention of this policy.

31

HABITUALLY DISRUPTIVE STUDENT

A disruptive act is one involving behavior, which causes a material and substantial disruption in the classroom, on

school grounds, on school vehicles, or at school activities, or events in which the behavior is initiated, willful and overt

on the part of the student. Before determining that an act is disruptive, the student should be given an opportunity to

explain her/his side of the story regarding the incident. Whether a given act is disruptive shall be determined by the

school administration in consultation with the staff member(s) who observed or know about the conduct. For an act to

be counted as one of the three disruptive acts leading to declaration as an habitually disruptive student, (1) the student

must be suspended for the act; and (2) both the student and the parent/guardian must be notified in writing and by

phone (or other means) of the definition of an habitually disruptive student, that the suspension will be counted as one

of the three disruptive acts, and that a student suspended three times for disruptive acts must by law be expelled. In

most suspensions, which may lead to the status of a habitually disruptive student, progressive discipline will be

employed, i.e. progressively more severe consequences for each successive disruptive act will be implemented.

However, the nature of the discipline imposed in each case and whether progressive discipline is appropriate for a

given case is up to the administrator to determine. A single disruptive act may be serious enough to warrant expulsion,

but in such cases the expulsion will be brought on a ground other than that the student is "habitually disruptive" (for

example, the ground for expulsion might be "continued willful disobedience or open and persistent defiance of proper

authority", or "behavior which is detrimental to the welfare or safety of other pupils or of school personnel").

Students with disabilities (either Section 504 or IDEIA) may only be expelled as habitually disruptive students where a

staffing team or building intervention team has determined that each disruptive act counted toward declaring the

student “habitually disruptive” and that the behaviors are not a manifestation of the student’s disability.

32

FACILITY AND RESOURCES

SCHOOL PROPERTY

Vista PEAK expects students to treat school property and equipment with care and responsibility. School property

includes the building and grounds, equipment, books and laptops. Intentional actions to damage or harm school

property will lead to a suspension and may lead to an expulsion hearing w/ legal referral.

TEXTBOOKS

Students will be provided with school textbooks in some classes. It is the student’s responsibility to cover each of their

textbooks upon receiving them. Students must maintain these books in good condition throughout the year. At the end

of the year, students must return the exact numbered copy they were issued to get credit for turning in a book.

Damaged or lost books will be the responsibility of the student and must be paid for based upon an amount assessed by

the school.

LAPTOP COMPUTERS and Tablets

Use of laptops or tablets is a privilege, not a right and can be revoked at any moment. The use of the laptop or tablets

and all school technology resources is governed by Vista PEAK’s acceptable use policy (see Appendix III). The school

reserves the sole right to enforce the acceptable use policy and to limit or take away a student’s privilege to use a school

laptop or tablet at any time. Parents or guardians may not use the student’s e-mail account or send e-mails to any

Vista PEAK’s email account of a student or group of students without the permission of the Directors.

RESPSONSIBILITY FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY

All property (i.e. vehicles, bikes, cell phones, IPODs, MP3 players, etc.) brought to school is brought at the owner's risk.

Vista PEAK cannot assume responsibility for any property belonging to students. Distracting or inappropriate objects

will be taken from a student and returned at the end of the day or may require a parent to pick it up from a member of

the VP staff. Repeated violations will require a parent conference. Students should not bring large sums of money to

school. If it is necessary to bring a large sum of money, that money should be taken to the office.

LOST AND FOUND

The school's lost and found is located down the main hallway. Items not claimed within a month are donated to

charitable organizations.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

It is the responsibility of students to come with appropriate materials to school. Vista PEAK will do its best to notify

students and family in a reasonable amount of time when items are needed.

33

GENERAL SCHOOL POLICIES

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

It is the policy of the Vista PEAK Campus to recruit, hire, train, educate, promote, and administer all personnel and

instructional actions, without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual preference, age, national origin, disability, marital

status, or public assistance. We will not tolerate any discrimination, and any such conduct is prohibited. The school also

prohibits any form of discipline or retaliation for reporting incidents.

STUDENT RECORDS

The school maintains important information files on each student. You and your parent(s)/guardian(s) may review

those records with reasonable advance notice given to the school. School officials may obtain access to your records for

educational purposes only.

MEDIA RELEASE

Vista PEAK will periodically create publications to highlight student achievement, school life and school events. These

publications will be developed for the purposes of admissions, public relations, fundraising, and other uses that

promote the school. From time to time, the school may also get media requests to highlight the school and its students.

We will honor the Student Photo/ Information Release form completed by families during the admission process.

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

School Materials: Publications prepared by and for the school by students may be posted or distributed to the greater

community, with prior approval by the directors or teachers. Such items may include school posters, brochures, murals,

etc. The school newspaper and the yearbook are available to students. All school publications are under the supervision

of a teacher, sponsor, and the Directors and may be taken down at the sole discretion of the school. Non-School

Materials: Unless a student or parent/guardian obtains specific prior approval from the Directors, written materials,

handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials may not be posted,

sold, circulated, or distributed at school or on any part of the campus. Materials displayed without this approval will be

removed. Parents or guardians may not use the student’s e-mail account to obtain student e-mail accounts, send e-mails

to any student or group of students without the permission of the Directors.

MESSAGES

Messages to be delivered by the attendance office may only be left by parents or employers. These messages should be

of a serious or emergency nature since instruction time is interrupted to deliver them. Questions about the nature of

the emergency will be determined by our administration.

TRESPASSING

If a student is asked to leave campus and refuses to do so, that person will be in violation of the City of Aurora

trespassing law and may be ticketed.

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VI. ATHLETICS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

VISTA PEAK ATHLETICS

2013/2014

Dear Parents/Guardians: Vista PEAK offers the following sports to 6th, 7th and 8th grade students.

Fall Sports (Starts in August): Girls Swimming/ Boys and Girls Track

Late Fall Sports (Starts in October): Wrestling

Winter Sports (Starts in November): Girls Volleyball (Starts in January): Boys Basketball

Spring Sports (Starts in March) Girls Basketball/ Soccer

Practice Times: Students will practice Monday – Friday during the season on all student contact days,

unless there is a game or practice is cancelled. In general, practice will be after school until about 5:00.

Please check with each coach to find out their practice schedule. If your child is to be picked up, please be on

time.

All student athletes must meet the following criteria before they are eligible to participate in the athletic

programs at Vista PEAK. Students may not practice until all forms and fees are paid. Please make sure all of

the items are filled out correctly. Any form that is not filled out will delay your child’s participation.

Have a physical examination done by a certified physician or physicians’ assistant. Physicals are good for one year from the date given. Please take form from packet to doctor for signature.

Students must have medical insurance to participate. If your child does not have medical insurance, school insurance can be purchased. Forms are in the main office

Fill out the Athletic Participation Permission form Fill out the Medical Examination form Students/Parents must read and sign the Rules of Conduct for Athletes There is a fee of $33 per sport. The maximum amount to be paid by a family with two or more

students will be limited to $99 per school year. The maximum amount to be paid by a family with one athlete will be $66 per school year.

Please contact Larry Thigpen (Athletic Director) 303-364-3757 if you have any questions!

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ELIGIBILITY

A student must remain eligible to participate in sports competitions. Eligibility is determined by a student’s work habits as indicated on the Work Habits Rubric, shown below. If a student receives a score below a 3 in any area from two classroom teachers, that student is deemed ineligible to compete for the following week. Coaches will notify students and parents if a student is deemed ineligible.

Work Habits Grading Rubric

Indicators

4

Consistently meets

expectations

3

Frequently meets

expectations

2

Infrequently meets

expectations

1

Does not

meet expectations

Effort

Consistently shows

commitment to

academic growth

Consistently

demonstrates

positive attitude

and/or eagerness

toward learning

Frequently shows

commitment to

academic growth

Frequently

demonstrates

positive attitude

and/or eagerness

toward learning

Infrequently shows

commitment to

academic growth

Infrequently

demonstrates

positive attitude

and/or eagerness

toward learning

Does not show

commitment to

academic growth

Does not

demonstrate positive

attitude and/or

eagerness toward

learning

Engagement

Consistently

interacts respectfully

Always participates

appropriately in

class (independently,

in small group, pair

discussions and

listens actively)

Consistently

challenges oneself

Frequently interacts

respectfully

Frequently

participates

appropriately in



discussions and

listens actively)

Frequently

challenges oneself

Infrequently

interacts respectfully

Infrequently

participates

appropriately in



discussions and

listens actively)

Infrequently

challenges oneself

Does not interact

respectfully

Does not participate

in class discussion or

listen actively

Does not challenge

oneself

36

Homework

Consistently

completes on time

Consistently

demonstrates high

quality

Frequently

completes on time

Frequently

demonstrates high

quality

Infrequently

completes on time

Infrequently

demonstrates high

quality

Does not complete

on time

Does not

demonstrate high

quality

Responsibility

Consistently present,

on time, and

prepared to learn

Consistently meets

deadlines and

completes makeup

work

Consistently

demonstrates

academic honesty

Frequently present,

on time, and

prepared to learn

Frequently meets

deadlines and

completes makeup

work

Frequently

demonstrates

academic honesty

Infrequently present,

on time, and

prepared to learn

Infrequently meets

deadlines and

completes makeup

work

Infrequently

demonstrates

academic honesty

Rarely present, on

time, and prepared

to learn

Rarely meets

deadlines and

completes makeup

work

Rarely demonstrates

academic honesty

Participation:

In order to participate on any athletic team, the student must have the following on file before participating in practice:

1. A form indicating a physical examination has been performed, signed by a physician or nurse practitioner, indicating the student is able to participate.

2. A parent permission form signed by student’s parent(s) or legal guardian giving authorization for student to participate in the athletic program and travel with the team when necessary.

3. A form signed by the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian indicating that the student is covered by a school insurance plan, a military insurance plan or a family insurance plan.

4. Pay the $33 dollar sport fee.

The Aurora Public Schools may charge fees and fines to students for specific classes, use of instructional

materials, rental of equipment and participation in activities. Students may be assessed fines or other

penalties for lost, damaged, or defaced books, materials or equipment.

Students shall not be denied participation due to indigence in any class, program or sport for non-payment of

fees. The athletic director may waive payment of fees upon verification that the family is eligible for aid to

dependent children or where the student is judged to be indigent.

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STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND CLUBS

A variety of student clubs will be offered to all students at Vista PEAK. See the Vista PEAK website for a list of current

offerings.

ACITIVITY BUS

An activity bus will run Monday-Thursday departing PEAK Exploratory at 5:00 p.m. and PEAK Preparatory at 5:10 p.m. Students will have to make alternate transportation arrangements on Friday’s. Students will need a bus pass from their activity sponsor to ride the activity bus. The activity bus will make the following stops:

Murphy Creek Side Creek Aurora Frontier Fox Ridge Clyde Miller Woodshire Buckley Air Force Base Singletree

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WEATHER AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

EMERGENCIES

During FIRE ALARMS, all students should immediately vacate the building in an orderly manner to a position at least

100 feet from the structure. Students are not to stop at their lockers or the restroom.

During TORNADO WARNINGS all students must follow directions from their teacher. Each room has a clearly marked

sign giving specific instructions of where to move and what to do.

If a POWER FAILURE occurs, students should normally remain in the area where they are currently located with the

exception of those in the hallways. Students in the hallway should go to the commons or outside the building.

If a DISASTER occurs, students will be directed to safety. Parents will receive a Connect-Ed message with information

on where they may pickup their students.

During a LOCKDOWN all students follow directions from their teacher. Each room has a clearly marked sign giving

specific instructions of where to move and what to do. Students in the hall when a lockdown is announced should move

to the closest occupied room.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS

SCHOOL CLOSURE such as that resulting from adverse weather conditions is announced on a large number of radio

stations. Please listen for public service announcements rather than calling the administration building or individual

schools.

In addition, our automated notification system, Connect Ed, will be used to notify each student’s primary phone number

listed in Infinite Campus. When school resumes, the block schedule will remain as published. The red/black calendar

will not change to accommodate make-up days.

When are decisions made about school closures? The district makes every effort to decide and announce decisions to close schools before 6 a.m. The planning and review process actually begins the night before. Once a decision is made, APS will notify local media, record a message on the district’s telephone hotline at 303-326-1080, post on the APS Web site at www.aps.k12.co.us, and send to parent phones using Connect-Ed.

What factors go into the decision? Weather and road conditions are checked throughout Aurora beginning the night before. Using a variety of resources, the school district gathers as much information as possible before making the decision. District officials monitor ongoing weather reports, road conditions from the Colorado Department of Transportation, and information from local and state law enforcement agencies. “Weather spotters,” such as school bus drivers and transportation personnel who are arriving at area bus terminals, and maintenance crew members who are assigned to plow school parking lots and sidewalks are consulted. Classes will not be held if parking lots and access areas to schools are dangerous or impassible. The APS Communication Department office will notify local media – television and radio – as early as possible.

Other school districts have delayed openings, but APS rarely does this. Why? Weather conditions may vary throughout the metro area, as well as other unique situations, such as transportation availability, so each decision is based on how conditions will affect students attending a particular school and/or school district. Officials are sensitive to the fact that students may arrive late when weather conditions are poor.

Should APS staff make the decision to delay school, the school day would begin one hour later than normal. Staff members are expected to arrive at school as close to their regular start time as is safely possible as some students will arrive on time.

APS buses will pick up students one hour later than normal. Our top priority is to keep students and staff as safe as possible.

http://www.aps.k12.co.us/

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Please note: A delayed start does not change regular pick-up times at the end of the school day.

Is there a set temperature that would cause the district to close schools? No. There is no set temperature that would cause the district to close schools, but it is one of the many factors, along with road conditions, that are taken into consideration when making a school closure decision. Extreme temperatures may cause schools to limit recess, off-campus lunch hours for high schools, and extracurricular activities.

Sometimes schools have power outages or other emergencies such as broken pipes. When this happens, what is the procedure at Aurora Public Schools? District personnel make every effort to protect students, provide for their comfort and ensure their safety. Sometimes power outages cause classrooms to get cold, but the district does not want to send students home unsupervised or to cold and dark houses. School principals can make the decision to send students home. If this happens the district notifies the news media and attempts to contact parents. Information is posted on the district’s web site and on the hotline at 303-326-1080. The district also must mobilize school buses, which can take time. Students will not be transported home without parent notification and contact.

What happens when the number of school days lost due to emergency school closures exceeds the number of school days required by the state? State law requires a specific number of hours of classroom instruction each school year. If a school does not meet this requirement the school year must be extended.

How can I make sure my student is safe? Since parents are the primary protectors they will need to decide what is best for their children. The option to keep children home when weather conditions are extreme is always at the parents' discretion and the school understands and respects the decision. Parents can contact the school and arrange for an excused student absence.

In cold weather students should be dressed appropriately. No one can predict when a fire alarm might go off or when buildings might have to be evacuated due to an emergency. Bulky coats and boots can be stored in classrooms, or other areas designated by the principal in addition to student lockers.

Parents are urged to make arrangements at the beginning of each school year for their children in case of school closures and to plan for the rare situation when it is necessary to close an individual school because of a power failure or another circumstance. Children should know where to go if a parent will not be home and how to contact parents and guardians. Parent contact information, including work telephone numbers, should be kept up-to-date with the school. If you are instructed to pick up your student at a location other than their school due to a school closure, you will be asked to present photo ID before the student will be released.

What about school bus transportation when the weather is bad? If schools are open, buses will run on their regular schedules as closely as possible, even in inclement weather. If school openings have been delayed, buses will run on a one hour delayed schedule. Prepare your child in suitable clothing to wait for possible additional time at the bus stop.

Parents should have a contingency plan in the event that a bus is running extremely late or breaks down before reaching the bus stop. Discuss with your child what to do and who to call if the bus does not arrive. Have a neighbor, or reliable student "buddy" at the same stop that can help.

Does the school district ever close some schools and leave others open? Yes. The district may close select schools due to unsafe conditions, but leave other schools open that may not be affected. The Aurora Public School district covers more than 150 square miles and conditions can vary throughout the county.

How can I find out about school closures or changes in schedules? The district immediately contacts the local

news media and requests that alerts are issued when there is a school closure or other emergency situation. Watch

major local television stations and listen to the radio. Closure information is also available on the district’s web site at

www.aps.k12.co.us, and on the APS Emergency line at 303-326-1080. Closure messages will also be sent to parent

phones early in the morning of the the closure or delay using Connect-Ed.

http://www.aps.k12.co.us/

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HEALTH OFFICE

The Health Office at Vista PEAK is staffed by a registered nurse who will provide minor health care and make health

assessments to determine if a student should remain at school, be sent home, or be advised to seek care from an outside

healthcare provider.

* Parents/guardians are responsible for notifying the health office of any health conditions their child experiences,

medications their child is taking and any changes in their child’s health condition.

* Students must check into the health office and parental/guardian permissions must be obtained before a child can

be dismissed due to illness.

IMMUNIZATIONS

Colorado State Law requires all students to have completed immunization records on file with the school health office.

Students who are not compliant with the state requirements need to have a plan in place or they will be denied

entrance according to Colorado Revised Statutes 25-4-902.

1. Students should report to class and obtain the teacher's permission and a hall pass before coming to the health

office. Emergencies are exceptions. Students will be sent back to class for a pass if they arrive without one.

2. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin) will be available in the health office for occasional use

by students. The Health Information card for the current school year must be on file with parental/guardian

signatures before these medications can be given.

3. Prescription medications may be given by the school nurse or designee during the school day providing the

medication is in the original labeled container. Medications must be accompanied by a Medication

Administration Authorization Form signed by a parent/guardian and medical provider.

4. Physical Education excuses will be provided by the nurse with a note or call from parent stating need to refrain

from activity. Conditions requiring more than two days excused from P.E. must be accompanied by a

physician's note. If a student needs to be out of P.E. more than two weeks he/she will be referred to an

Director for a schedule change.

5. When the nurse is out of the health office students should report to the main office receptionist. The nurse

carries a radio and can always be reached.

6. Feminine hygiene products are available only at the health office and the women's physical education office.

The cost is 25 cents per item.

7. Elevator keys may be obtained from the nurse if a health condition exists which makes using stairs difficult. A

$20.00 deposit is required which will be returned when the key is checked in. An additional fee of $20.00 will

be assessed if the key is not returned.

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VISTA PEAK CAMPUS

2013-2014 APPENDICES

Appendix I: 2013-14 Student Dress Code

Appendix II: Technology Acceptable Use Policy (TAUP)

42

APPENDIX I

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

2013-14 STUDENT DRESS CODE

TOPS Acceptable tops must completely cover underarms, abdomen, back, shoulders, mid-drifts, chest

and cleavage at all times while sitting or standing.

Spaghetti strap shirts, halter tops, tank tops, or shirts resembling or similar to tank tops are not

acceptable.

Athletic jerseys are not allowed (with the exception of Vista PEAK sports jerseys.)

Outside jackets must be taken off at the beginning of the day and put away.

BOTTOMS

Pants, shorts, skorts, skirts and dresses must be worn with the waistband at the waist.

Dresses, skirts, skorts, shorts, must be worn at an acceptable length (2 inches above the knee or

longer.) Leggins, Jeggins or tight pants can only be worn if they are underneath skirts, skorts,

dresses, shorts or covered by a long shirt that is at least 2 inches above the knee.

Jeans in good repair are acceptable. No excessively ripped jeans where skin or undergarments are

exposed.

Excessively baggy pants and pajamas are not acceptable.

Pants must be hemmed at shoe length

OTHER

Excessive and/or inappropriate holes or rips and undergarments must be covered at all times and

should not been seen through outer garments

No slippers, excessively high heels or platforms (higher than 3 inches) are permitted.

No baseball hats, hoods, bandanas, do-rags, and sunglasses

No text on clothing or buttons that promote violence, alcohol, gangs, tobacco or drugs

No clothing, jewelry, piercings, tattoos or appearances that are determined to be distractive or

unsafe to the learning environment will be permitted

Students should wear the appropriate clothing with modesty and in a neat fashion

THE FACULTY AND STAFF OF VISTA PEAK RESERVE THE SOLE

RIGHT TO INTERPRET AND ENFORCE THE STUDENT DRESS CODE

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APPENDIX II

VISTA PEAK CAMPUS

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

The Vista PEAK Campus provides students and staff with a variety of technology resources for the purpose of supporting our educational mission. This acceptable use policy is intended to explain the responsibilities and limitations of technology use at Vista PEAK. Additional rules may be added as necessary. It is important that all users of Visa PEAK technology remember that access to these resources is a privilege, not a right. Access to Vista PEAK technology resources is only given to students who act in a considerate and responsible manner. Users of technology are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior and care in the use of computers and school computer networks just as they are in a classroom or a school library. Still, as technology is integrated into the fabric of virtually all instruction at Vista PEAK, and appropriate use is critical to ensure learning happens for all, violation of these policies will be treated as a disciplinary issue.

Vista PEAK Policies

1. Inappropriate usage of technology will lead to serious disciplinary consequences. We expect students to apply the same core values of responsibility, respect and safety that govern their conduct in their life at Vista PEAK to also govern their use of Vista PEAK’s computers.

2. Vista PEAK reserves the right to define inappropriateness in this context.

3. General school rules apply to all use of technology.

4. Reference to laptops also includes tablets or other kinds of Technology provided or authorized by Vista PEAK.

5. All work created on or by or stored on any Vista PEAK equipment belongs to Vista PEAK and may be reviewed and/or retained for any purpose in line with its educational mission.

6. Computer and network storage areas may be accessed by network administrators as needed for school purposes. Users should not expect that files (including email) stored on Vista PEAK servers or computers will be private. Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored.

7. At school and/or during school hours, students will use computers and other technology resources for school related purposes only, unless they receive specific permission to do otherwise. In classrooms, students will use technology only as directed by the teacher.

8. Vista PEAK reserves the right to withhold technology resources from the student responsible for unpaid damages until appropriate arrangements have been made. 9. Additional consequences may be levied in the event of multiple damage incidents by a given student.

Student Appropriate Use It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the following:

1. Laptops are accounted for at all times. Laptops shall either be on the student’s desk in use, or if not in use, under the desk, not in walk aisles where they may be kicked or tripped over. The student is responsible for the laptop at ALL times and may face financial or disciplinary consequences for failure to maintain this security.

2. No cell or multimedia devices are allowed out during class unless directed by the teacher.

3. Materials printed at school are to be academic in nature. Documents not pertaining to school are not to be printed here.

4. Students will respect the intellectual property of others by using appropriate citation, refraining from all forms of plagiarism, and abiding by federal copyright laws.

5. All students must log on with their own user name and password. Passwords must be kept confidential. Users are responsible for all actions that occur with their user account and computers. Users should change their password from time to time and guard it carefully. It is ALWAYS appropriate to ask someone to step away while one enters a password, and courteous to do so without being asked.

44

6. Students must not attempt to access or tamper with files, folders, programs, drives or any equipment on the network that do not belong to them.

7. Students will conserve the use of technology resources such as bandwidth, printing supplies, etc. Personal files, music, video, or other personal multimedia files may not be saved to the district server.

8. Students may not download or install programs, apps or inappropriate media or info. NO PROGRAM OR PROGRAM ENHANCEMENTS ARE TO BE DOWNLOADED or installed from any source. If a program, or any portion of it, is on your hard drive without permission, it constitutes computer misuse.

9. The Internet is available to students for academic pursuits. Students may not use it in an inappropriate manner, or give out personal information about yourself or classmates over the Internet without specific staff permission.

10. The school will provide all students with access to the Internet and a Gmail account. These tools are privileges and may be rescinded if used in an inappropriate manner. Any student who uses inappropriate language or uses the Internet or his/her e-mail to harass, attack or defame another person or send inappropriate pictures in any communications faces disciplinary action. Email is an educational tool provided for the express purpose of furthering Vista PEAK’s educational mission. As such, Vista PEAK reserves the right to inspect any Vista PEAK email messages, to rescind or modify privileges in any way or at any time in the enforcement of this policy.

11. Students will follow Vista PEAK technology use protocols. For instance, Instant Messaging (or having IM programs on the student computer – see Downloading above), emailing during class, and playing music out loud during school hours are not acceptable. Earbuds are not allowed unless teacher directed.

12. Students will not use technology for illegal or commercial enterprise without specific written permission from the Directors.

13. So as not to unnecessarily burden Vista PEAK support staff, students will learn and exercise skills to undertake basic troubleshooting, including taking advantage of (in the following order) a. Online computer and web help sources

b. fellow students

c. teachers Students will take precautions against viruses and other threats and will report all issues or infections immediately to prevent damage.

45

VISTA PEAK STUDENT HELP LINES

Vista PEAK Exploratory 303-364-3757

Vista PEAK Preparatory 303-340-0121

Comitis Crisis Center 303-343-9890 (24 hr. Line)

Aurora Mental Health 303-617-2300 (24 hr. Line)

Aurora Presbyterian Behavioral

Health Services 303-869-1999 (24 hr. Line)

Children's Hospital Health Line 303-861-0123 (24 hr. Line)

Poison Center 303-629-1123

Rape Hotline 303-322-7273

Gateway Shelter 303-343-1856

MCPN Teen Clinic 303-637-3235

Mobile Health Van 303-360-8111

Planned Parenthood 303-671-7526

Suicide and Crisis Hotline 303-860-1200

Tri-County Health Dept. 720-451-0123

Aurora Police Dept. 911 or 739-6302

Arapahoe Co. Youth Services 303-795-4850

Juvenile Assessment Center 303-708-3381