ASU Preparatory Academy - Family Handbook
Policies
Non-Discrimination
Grievance Procedure
It is the policy of ASU Preparatory Academy not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, age, or disability. ASU Preparatory Academy has adopted an internal grievance procedure providing for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by, Title IX, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and US Department of Agriculture policy prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color national origin, sex, age or disability in any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. The Law and Regulations may be examined in the office of the Compliance Coordinator, 1130 E University Dr., Suite 230, Tempe, AZ 85281, who has been designated to coordinate the efforts of ASU Preparatory Academy to comply with federal non-discrimination law.
Any person who believes she or he has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability may file a grievance under this procedure. It is against the law for ASU Preparatory Academy to retaliate against anyone who files a grievance or cooperates in the investigation of a grievance.
Procedure:
Grievances must be submitted to the Compliance Coordinator within 30 days of the date the person filing the grievance becomes aware of the alleged discriminatory action.
A complaint must be in writing, containing the name and address of the person filing it. The complaint must state the problem or action alleged to be discriminatory and the remedy or relief sought.
The Compliance Coordinator (or her/his designee) shall conduct an investigation of the complaint. This investigation may be informal, but it must be thorough, affording all interested persons an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint. The Compliance Coordinator will maintain the files and records of ASU Preparatory Academy relating to such grievances.
The Compliance Coordinator will issue a written decision on the grievance no later than 30 days after its filing.
The person filing the grievance may appeal the decision of the Compliance Coordinator by writing to the Head of Schools within 15 days of receiving the Compliance Coordinator’s decision. The Head of Schools shall issue a written decision in response to the appeal no later than 30 days after its filing.
The availability and use of this grievance procedure does not prevent a person from filing a complaint of discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights or USDA Director, Office of Adjudication.
ASU Preparatory Academy will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that disabled persons are provided other accommodations, if needed, to participate in this grievance process. Such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of material for the blind, or assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings. The Compliance Coordinator will be responsible for such arrangements.
It is the policy of ASU Preparatory Academy not to discriminate on the basis of disability. ASU Preparatory Academy has adopted an internal grievance procedure providing for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services regulations implementing the Act. Section 504 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. The Law and Regulations may be examined in the office of the Section 504 Compliance Coordinator, who has been designated to coordinate the efforts of ASU Preparatory Academy to comply with Section 504.
Any person who believes she or he has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of disability may file a grievance under this procedure. It is against the law for ASU Preparatory Academy to retaliate against anyone who files a grievance or cooperates in the investigation of a grievance.
Procedure:
- Grievances should be submitted to the Section 504 Coordinator as soon as possible so they can be investigated. Staff must report any grievance received by them to the 504 Coordinator within 48 hours of the date the person filing the grievance becomes aware of the alleged discriminatory action.
- A complaint must be in writing, containing the name and address of the person filing it. The complaint must state the problem or action alleged to be discriminatory and the remedy or relief sought. A complaint should also list any witnesses or people the complainant believes may have information regarding the event at issue.
- The Section 504 Coordinator (or her/his designee) shall conduct an investigation of the complaint. This investigation may be informal, but it must be thorough, affording all
interested persons an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint. The Section 504 Coordinator will maintain the files and records of ASU Preparatory Academy relating to such grievances. - The Section 504 Coordinator will issue a written decision on the grievance no later than 30 days after its filing.
- The person filing the grievance may appeal the decision of the Section 504 Coordinator by writing to the Head of Schools, within 10 calendar days of receiving the Section 504 Coordinator’s decision. The Head of Schools shall issue a written decision in response to the appeal no later than 30 days after its filing.
- The availability and use of this grievance procedure does not prevent a person from filing a complaint of discrimination on the basis of disability with the Office for Civil Rights. However, ASU Preparatory Academy takes all allegations of discrimination seriously and encourages students, employees and parents to first initiate our grievance process to see if we can resolve the complaint expediently.
ASU Preparatory Academy will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided other accommodations, if needed, to participate in this grievance process. Such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of material for the blind, or assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings. The Section 504 Coordinator will be responsible for such arrangements.
Academic Integrity
Academic Integrity, as defined by ASU Prep, is: ‘the expectation that teachers, students, researchers and all members of the academic community act with: honesty, trust, fairness, respect and responsibility.‘ Breaching academic integrity is also known as ‘academic misconduct’ or ‘academic dishonesty’. We believe the best solution to achieve academic integrity is prevention and understanding. ASU Prep reserves the right to require additional Discussion Based Assessments and proctored exams (in person and/or virtual).
Academic: your educational experience.
Integrity: to act with honesty.
Having academic Integrity means that students submit work that is truly their own. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to:
- Direct Plagiarism – A word-for-word transcription of a section of someone else’s work, without citation and without quotation marks. This also includes allowing another student to copy your work.
- Mosaic Plagiarism – Sometimes called “patchwriting,” which entails borrowing phrases, as opposed to complete sentences, but not using a citation.
- Using an Academic Broker – Allowing another person to complete coursework on your behalf.
- Self-plagiarism – submitting work that is the same or significantly the same as one that you previously submitted for another class without approval from your teacher.
OpenAI/ChatGPT
The use of OpenAI and similar language models has the potential to greatly enhance learning and foster curiosity in the K-12 educational setting. However, it is essential to maintain a commitment to academic integrity and discourage any form of cheating or dishonesty. This policy aims to strike a balance that supports curiosity, growth, and responsible use of OpenAI while upholding the principles of academic honesty. ASU Prep implements policies and procedures that adhere to the essential principles of the ASU’s Academic Integrity and Artificial Intelligence/ChatGPT. ASU Prep is currently reviewing ASU’s academic integrity policy through the lens of what types of content can be produced through generative AI and what learning behaviors and outcomes are expected of students very carefully and on an individual basis.
Responsible Use:
- OpenAI and similar tools, if used, should be used as educational resources to enhance learning, promote inquiry, and explore diverse perspectives.
- Students’ use of OpenAI should be to supplement their understanding, generate ideas, and seek assistance in problem-solving, but not to replace their independent thinking and effort.
- OpenAI should not be used to complete assignments, assessments, or tests on behalf of the student, as this constitutes cheating and undermines the educational process.
- Students should be aware that utilizing OpenAI’s capabilities to reproduce pre-written materials without proper attribution is considered plagiarism and is strictly prohibited.
- Faculty should emphasize that students must cite any borrowed content sources to comply with all applicable citation guidelines and copyright law and avoid plagiarism. Simply put, if students use generative AI, they should cite it: How to Cite ChatGPT in APA format.
- Students and faculty should also ensure any AI-generated citations are correct, as ChatGPT is notorious for listing nonsensical citations.
Consequences for Academic Integrity Violations
Please refer to the discipline matrix in ASU Prep Discipline Guidelines for student consequences.
Attendance Policy
Attendance Matters
Attending school consistently has a huge impact on a student’s academic success starting in kindergarten and continuing through high school. Even as children grow older and more independent, families play a key role in making sure students get to school every day and understand why attendance is so important for success in school and for their future careers. We appreciate your support and count on families to ensure that students attend school and arrive on time.
How can parents help support their student:
- Know the school’s attendance policy
- Check on your child’s attendance to be sure absences are not accumulating.
- If you’re having trouble getting your child to school, ask for help from school officials.
- Contact the attendance clerk to inform the school when your student will be absent.
- Ensure that your student arrives at school on time including each class period that follows. Please see the website for your specific school’s bell schedule.
- Keep the school informed if your phone number or address changes.
- Provide notes from doctors and dentists to excuse children from appointments, illness or injuries.
- Schedule appointments, vacations, or college visits on days or times when school is not in session.
- If you anticipate extended absences contact the school. We may be able to work together to support the student during the absence.
Parents and guardians can view their student’s attendance online through the Infinite Campus Parent portal at https://asuprepaz.infinitecampus.org/campus/portal/asuprep.jsp.
Attendance Policy
Our attendance policy is governed by Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S. §15-802 and §15-803).
Excused Absences: Per A.R.S.§5-901(A)(2) excused absences are identified due to: illness, medical appointments, family emergencies, doctor appointments, bereavement, and out-of-school community breaks, not to exceed 10% of the instructional days scheduled for the school year.
Unexcused Absences: Absences for reasons other than listed as excused absences are considered unexcused. Absence that is not excused within 24 hours of the absence by a parent or guardian is recorded as unexcused.
Excessive Absences: Per A.R.S. §15-803(B), absences may be considered excessive when the number of absent days (excused and unexcused absences combined) exceeds ten percent (18 days) of the number of required attendance days prescribed in A.R.S. §15-802(B)(1). Students with excessive excused absences will be required to provide medical documentation to remain in class and excuse any further absences. If an absence occurs relating to any other term or condition that is not specifically designated herein, the absence shall be counted as unexcused.
To encourage and improve school attendance, ASU Prep Academy has implemented a truancy program in partnership with Maricopa County Juvenile Court. This truancy program is called C.U.T.S. (Court Unified Truancy Suppression). We will be tracking attendance very closely.
Attendance Intervention Timeline
- 5 Total Absences (Excused and Unexcused): An attendance letter warning is mailed home.
- 7 Total Absences (Excused and Unexcused): A staff member may contact parent/guardian and a warning letter is sent home.
- 9 Total Absences (Excused and Unexcused): A school official may contact a parent/guardian explaining that the student has exceeded their allowed (9) unexcused absences and could lose credit (High School courses only). Students with excessive absences may be withdrawn from school and referred to the Court Unified Truancy Suppression Program.
The following paperwork will be explained to parents by a school official and will be sent home for review and signatures:
- Student Attendance Contract
- Loss of Credit Notification and Appeal (High School courses only)
12 Total Absences (Excused and Unexcused): A school official may contact parents or legal guardians to schedule a mandatory meeting with a Juvenile Probation Officer to discuss possible court proceedings. At this time a school official will also discuss possible withdrawal from ASU Prep Academy.
- Excessive excused/unexcused absences combined (12 or more) – parent may be required to meet with administrator, based on the reasons for the absences the student may be placed on an attendance contract, referred to C.U.T.S., ineligible for credit (High School courses only) and may be withdrawn from school.
15 Total Absences (Excused and Unexcused): The parent/guardian may be issued a citation for violation of A.R.S. §15-802A, parent/legal guardian will be required to attend a hearing. Consequences at the hearing may include the following: required attendance of the parent and the child at an education class, community service hours assigned to the child, counseling, etc. The parent may be assessed a $50 Diversion fee. A school official may begin the withdrawal process per ASU Prep Academy Policy Guidelines in accordance with A.R.S. §15-802(b).
Students with excessive period absences will abide by the same interventions above, except for withdrawal and citation.
Students absent for ten consecutive school days, except for excused absences identified herein, shall be withdrawn from the school effective the last day of attendance or reported excused absence, pursuant to A.R.S. §15-901(A).
Parents are expected to inform the school when their children will be absent. When a student needs to be absent, we ask that parents/guardians call the attendance line or submit an absence request on their Infinite Campus Parent Portal before 8:30 a.m. each day the student is absent. State law mandates that the school record a reason for all student absences. The absence will be unexcused if no reason is given. When calling, please leave the child’s name (with spelling), date of absence, grade level, reason for absence and a telephone number where you can be reached in case we have questions.
If children are absent without prior notice, the school will make reasonable efforts to notify parents within the applicable time periods prescribed by law. It is important that parents let the school know right away if their phone numbers change. Please provide notes from doctors and dentists to excuse children for appointments, illnesses, or injuries. If parents do not authorize absences within 24 hours after their children return to school, absences are unexcused.
ASU Prep Tardy Policy
ASU Prep Academy Tardy Policy was created to support our students’ educational success. Arriving on time for class ensures that your child does not miss out on any important learning opportunities.
Punctuality in school life builds the path to success in a student’s life by enabling them to plan ahead, make an efficient routine, and be prepared for their tasks. A punctual student is better equipped to deal with their day-to-day tasks.
ASU Prep will adhere to the following tardy policy:
- A tardy student is defined as any student who is late to school if they are not in their seats at the start of the first period class (as shown on the student schedule).
- Parents are required to check their students in at the front office.
- For approved high school students, a student may sign himself/herself in when arriving late to school without a parent/guardian; however, the parent/guardian of the student will be notified of their late arrival.
- Unexcused tardy is defined as a late arrival to school without a parent or legal guardian calling to excuse. Examples of this are: oversleeping, dropping off students at other schools, traffic, making stops for food and drink.
- Excused tardy is defined as late arrival for school because of an appointment such as: doctor, dentist, etc. and the parent or legal guardian calls to excuse a tardy. ASU Prep reserves the right to request documentation for appointments resulting in tardiness.
- Excessive tardiness – A student who is habitually tardy may be considered truant. Students may be subject to disciplinary action including community break if the administration determines that tardiness is excessive.
It is critical to the success of every student that they arrive at school on-time. Students are tardy if they are not seated when their class starts. Any time a student arrives after the official school start time, the parent/guardian of the student is required to sign-in the student at the front desk. For approved high school students, a student may sign himself/herself in when arriving late to school without a parent; however, the parent/guardian of the student will be notified of their late arrival.
Students with excessive period tardies will abide by the same interventions below.
Students are required to meet with administrators.
Students serve community break, before or after school, or placed in a mandatory tutoring setting.
Parents are responsible for providing advance notice when a child must leave during the school day for an appointment or other circumstances, and they must indicate who will pick up the child from school. All parents and guardians will be asked to show photo identification when picking up students early from school. Parents who anticipate extended absences should contact the school. If they do not, children are withdrawn from school after missing 10 days in a row. For approved high school students, the student can sign him or herself out given parent approval. Parents must call in each instance to excuse.
Arrival and Dismissal
For safety’s sake, students are not allowed on campus in the morning until staff supervision is provided. Please do not drop off students before hours of operation, posted at each site. Please call the office if you are unsure of the time.
When classes are dismissed, students who do not ride the bus or walk home must be picked up promptly. Unless students are in after school programs, supervision is not provided. Additionally, parents must be present immediately following extra-curricular activities, to pick up students.
Our school’s attendance line can be found below:
Inappropriate and Excluded Items
Items that interfere with the educational process or present a safety hazard as determined by the ASU Preparatory Academy administration will be confiscated. Students will be assigned an appropriate consequence for possession of these items in accordance with the discipline procedures.
Electronic Devices and Cell Phones Electronic devices such as cell phones, Air Pods, iPods, electronic games, etc. may be carried to school and used before or after school. All electronic devices should be turned off and stored in the student’s backpack during school hours. Electronic devices may not be used during school hours without specific permission of the teacher.
Any electronic device which is not turned off or is not stored in the student’s backpack during school hours, may be confiscated and turned in to the office. The electronic device will only be released to the parent and/or guardian of the student. The school is not responsible for loss or theft of electronic devices that students choose to bring to campus. *Note Accommodations with parent consent may be made at the site level with Principals.
Search and Seizure
Order, safety and security are essential to a productive learning environment. When the learning environment is threatened by the presence of contraband, school administrators have a responsibility and the authority to search and obtain information for school safety.
Personal Property
Student cubbies, desks, school textbooks, computers and library books are the property of ASU Preparatory Academy and remain, at all times, under the control of the school. However, students are expected to assume full responsibility for the security and safekeeping of their desks, books and other property and equipment.
Personal items that are not considered necessary for the student’s educational experience should be left at home, as the school cannot assume responsibility for these items. ASU Preparatory Academy is not responsible for the safe keeping of your personal items nor does the district assume responsibility for lost or stolen property. Any personal item (i.e., cell phone, Air Pods, iPod, camera, handheld game, toys or dangerous items, etc.) which causes a disturbance or interferes with learning, should not be brought on campus and may be confiscated and may or may not be returned. When there is reasonable suspicion to believe that personal property has been missing or stolen or may be detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of others, a search may be conducted of a student’s personal property including backpacks, cell phones and clothing pockets.
Please follow established school policy for use of skateboards, scooters and rollerblades. The use of school property before/after school hours for skateboarding, scooter use, rollerblading, bicycling or any other unsanctioned activity without permission is prohibited.
Positive Intervention Approach
In the event that students do not abide by the principles outlined in the Guidelines for Behavior, ASU Preparatory Academy will use a positive discipline approach to correcting behavior. Positive Interventions are grounded in interventions at different levels: the individual, group, class, school, family and community settings. ASU Preparatory’s discipline practices are based on the belief that human beings are happier, more cooperative and productive, and more likely to make positive changes in their behavior when those in positions of authority do things with them, rather than to them or for them. The key function to our discipline practices is restoring and building relationships. ASU Prep believes in restorative practices – Restorative justice is an alternative to using punishment-based approaches to school discipline and behavior management in K-12 classrooms.
Positive Intervention Goals
ASU Prep adheres to a philosophy of growth mindset vs. fixed mindset and believes that students need the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and create/maintain better choices. Our intervention approach practices and goals are below:
- Acknowledge that relationships are central to the building of the school community
- Establish policies and procedures that focus on harms done and misbehavior in a way that strengthens relationships
- Focus on harms done rather than rules broken
- Give voice to the person who has been harmed
- Engage in collaborative problem-solving
- Empower change and growth for all involved
- Enhance responsibility for actions and attitudes for all involved
The goals of these practices are that:
- ASU Prep will foster a culture that is a safe, friendly and enjoyable learning environment
- ASU Prep will foster an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.
- ASU Prep will be a school where students are motivated to learn and faculty and staff enjoy meaningful and fulfilling work.
Title IX
ASU Preparatory Academy (“ASU Prep Digital”) complies with federal and state laws prohibiting unlawful discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability and age in its programs and activities. Any person that believes they have been harassed or discriminated against based on his/her sex can file a complaint under this procedure by contacting the ASU Prep’s Title IX Coordinator.
Civility Code
ASU Preparatory Academy aims to promote mutual respect, civility, safety, and orderly conduct within the bounds of a safe and secure online learning environment. It is critical that all students, parents/guardians, teachers/staff, and other stakeholders maintain respectful and courteous interactions and adhere to conduct that promotes success in college, career, and life. As such, the presence of a positive, congenial, and collaborative relationship between all stakeholders is of the utmost importance.
No person shall:
- Use profanity, insults, or other disparaging remarks towards students or staff in any form (verbal, non-verbal, or written communication)
- Knowingly misrepresent, mischaracterize, or misquote information received from others (verbal, non-verbal, or written communication)
- Make threats to students or staff in any form (verbal, non-verbal, or written communication)
- Intentionally cause or threaten harm toward students or staff (physical, emotional, or otherwise)
- Intentionally cause damage or destruction of school property, (physical/electronic, etc.). This includes property belonging to any ASU Preparatory Academy student, faculty, or staff
- Intentionally cause disruption in courses, events, school programs, or other affiliated activities
- Intimidate, harass, or discriminate against students or staff on the basis of race, ancestry, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws
- Refuse to comply with any reasonable request of identifiable school officials in the course of performing their duties
- Deliberately provoke or encourage others to commit any acts as prohibited by the ASU Preparatory Academy student/parent handbook or by law
- Violate any federal, state, or local laws
Violations of the Civility Code shall be reported to the Administrative Team for review. Upon investigation, ASUPD and its Administrative Team reserves the right to pursue action including but not limited to: warning, withdrawal, administrative discipline, expulsion, or in severe cases, pursuit of civil or criminal legal action for any party in violation of the Civility Code.
Student Suspension and Expulsion / Due Process Rights
A student whose conduct may warrant long-term suspension or expulsion shall be provided with written notice of the alleged misconduct and an opportunity to be heard by an impartial hearing officer. The particular form of due process required shall depend upon the gravity of the situation and the type of discipline invoked. In certain circumstances, an alternative to long-term suspension or expulsion will be offered to the student.
If a student withdraws from school after receiving notice of possible action concerning discipline, suspension, or expulsion, Administration may continue with the action after the withdrawal and may record the results of such action in the student’s permanent file.
Student Rights
- To be told the reason(s) for any disciplinary action verbally and in writing
- To tell their side of the story before receiving a consequence
- To be given information about appealing disciplinary actions
ASU Prep Policy
Informal Due Process:
The student shall receive notice, written or oral, of the alleged misconduct and the evidence that exists to support the allegation. The student shall then be provided with the opportunity to explain his/her version of the facts. The school official(s) involved shall make reasonable efforts to verify facts and statements prior to making a decision regarding discipline.
Course Assignments:
Course assignments for students on out-of-school community breaks will be provided by the teachers of record with the purpose of enabling students to remain current in their assigned course work. Credit will be given for work completed while on out-of-school community breaks.
Restrictions:
During the period of out-of-school community break, the student is not permitted on Network property and may not participate in Network functions or activities without special permission and prior approval from the appropriate Network-level administrator. The student is also prohibited from enrolling in any Network school during the period of a long-term suspension.
Notice Regarding Discipline – If an out-of-school community break is imposed on the student, the following steps shall be taken:
- If the student is not emancipated, the parent(s) or guardian(s) shall be notified before a student is permitted to leave the campus. If no parent contact is made, the student shall be isolated until regular dismissal time and given a written message to be delivered to the parent(s) or guardian(s) by the student.
- A letter shall be sent to the parent/student within a reasonable time to explain the terms and reasons for the out-of-school community break.
- The principal may make arrangements to schedule a conference with the parent/student as soon as practicable after the imposition of the out-of-school community break to discuss the student’s conduct.
Decision Regarding Discipline:
The Principal may assign the student an out-of-school community break for ten (10) days or less, choose another disciplinary alternative, or exonerate the student. A written record of the decision shall be kept in the student’s discipline file. No appeal is available for out-of-school community breaks under ten (10) days.
Students involved in inappropriate actions are subject to certain disciplinary actions. Depending on the behavior issues of the student, one or more of the following actions may be taken by school officials. Misconduct may also result in suspension or loss of privilege of participation in extracurricular activities.
Conversation:
A school official (teacher, administrator, counselor or student advisor) talks to the student and tries to reach an agreement on how the student should behave.
Conference:
A formal conference is conducted with the student and one or more school officials.
Parent Involvement:
The parent is notified by telephone, personal contact, email, or letter. A conference may be conducted with the student, parent, appropriate school officials, and other individuals concerned.
In-School Community Break (ISCB):
The student is subject to consequences that do not require a community break out of school. As an example, site-wide detention structures are in place before school, during lunch, and after school. In addition, students may lose certain privileges.
Community Break Out of School (CBOS):
The student is subject to a suspension of 10 school days or less. A community break out of school may be imposed by the school administrator. During that community break, the student is not permitted on Network property or at Network functions.
Long-Term Suspension:
The student is subject to a suspension of 11 school days or more. A long-term suspension may be recommended by the school administrator and imposed by Network administration. During that suspension, the student is not permitted on Network property or at Network functions.
Intervention Program:
This may take the form of a Community Break Out of School combined with a counseling program in place of a long-term suspension.
Alternative Learning Classroom:
Temporary assignment to an alternative learning classroom (ALC) is an alternative to off-campus suspension. An ALC may be imposed for part of a day or for one or more days. The student is removed from the regular classroom setting and is assigned to a location isolated from classmates. Class assignments are given to a student placed in ALC. The parent is notified.
Expulsion:
The student is subject to permanent expulsion from all schools in the Network. Expulsion may be recommended by a school administrator and imposed by the Head of Schools following a hearing before an independent hearing officer. Upon expulsion, a student is not permitted on Network property or at Network functions unless the student has been readmitted to school by the Head of Schools.
A school Network or charter school shall expel from school for at least one year a pupil who is determined to have threatened an educational institution, except that the school Network or charter school may modify this expulsion requirement for a pupil on a case-by-case basis if the pupil participates in mediation, community service, restitution or other programs in which the pupil takes responsibility for the results of the threat. This subsection shall be construed consistently with the requirements of the individuals with disabilities education act (20 United States Code sections 1400 through 1420). A school Network may reassign a pupil who is subject to expulsion pursuant to this subsection to an alternative education program pursuant to subsection E of this section if the pupil participates in mediation, community service, restitution or other programs in which the pupil takes responsibility for the threat. A school Network or charter school may require the pupil’s parent or guardian to participate in mediation, community service, restitution or other programs in which the parent or guardian takes responsibility with the pupil for the threat. For the purposes of this subsection, “threatened an educational institution” means to interfere with or disrupt an educational institution as defined in section 13-2911 by doing any of the following:
- For the purpose of causing, or in reckless disregard of causing, interference with or disruption of an educational institution, threatening to cause physical injury to any employee of an educational institution or any person attending an educational institution.
- For the purpose of causing, or in reckless disregard of causing, interference with or disruption of an educational institution, threatening to cause damage to any educational institution, the property of any educational institution, the property of any employee of an educational institution or the property of any person attending an educational institution.
- Going on or remaining on the property of any educational institution for the purpose of interfering with or disrupting the lawful use of the property or in any manner as to deny or interfere with the lawful use of the property by others.
- Refusing to obey a lawful order to leave the property of an educational institution.
Discipline Matrix
The categories of misconduct specified below are intended only as examples of the kinds of misconduct justifying discipline and not as a complete list of misconduct. ASU Preparatory Academy will take into account the grade level and age of the student, and assign appropriate consequences. Offenses are cumulative during the entire time the student is enrolled at ASU Preparatory Academy. School rules apply and students are subject to discipline including, but not limited to, the following: (1) any school activity/event, home or away, day or night; (2) to and from school or school activity, including bus stops; (3) in classrooms, on campus or on any Network property.
Note: These are recommended disciplinary guidelines for some examples of misconduct. Depending on the circumstances of the offense and history of the offender, actual discipline may be lesser or greater at the administrator’s discretion on a case-by-case basis.
For the chart below the meaning of the asterisks (*, **) is:
* The violation must be reported to the Arizona Department of Education.
** The violation must be reported to local law enforcement and the Arizona Department of Education.
Academic Violations
In addition to disciplinary action, students may face academic sanctions which may include but are not limited to receiving a zero (0) on an assignment, grade of “F” for a class, or withdrawal from the class during the academic year. Please see the handbook section “Academic Integrity” for further information.
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Aggression Violations
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Alcohol Violations
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Drugs Violations
To include inhalants, prescription drugs (not prescribed to the student who has it), over-the-counter drugs, illicit drugs, synthetic, counterfeit, or imitation drugs, drug paraphernalia, substances or unknown drugs represented as illicit drugs.
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Tobacco Violations
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Arson Violations
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Attendance Policy Violations
Maximum: ISS/SSS
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Detention
Maximum: Detention
Bus Violations
Maximum: Loss of Bus Riding Privileges
Dangerous Items Violations
- Air Soft Gun
- BB Gun
- Knife with a blade less than 4.5 inches
- Laser Pointer
- Letter Opener
- Mace
- Other Dangerous Item(s)
- Paintball Gun
- Razor Blade or Box Cutter
- Simulated Knife
- Taser or Stun Gun
- Tear Gas
Maximum: Expulsion
- Destructive Device (bomb or grenade)
- Handgun or Pistol
- Other Firearm(s) or destructive device(s)
- Shotgun or Rifle
- Starter Gun
Maximum: Expulsion
- Billy club
- Brass Knuckles
- Knife with a blade of at least 4.5 inches
- Nunchakus
- Other Weapon(s)
Maximum: Expulsion
Could be considered as a Threat to an Educational Institution.
Maximum: Expulsion
Harassment, Bullying, Threat, or Intimidation Violations
Cyberbullying is, but not limited to, an act of bullying committed by use of electronic technology including social media.
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
May require a Threat Assessment to be conducted by school personnel.
Maximum: Expulsion
Other School Policies Violations
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
School Threat Violations
Could be considered as a Threat to an Educational Institution. May require a Threat Assessment to be conducted by school personnel.
Maximum: Expulsion
Could be considered as a Threat to an Educational Institution. May require a Threat Assessment to be conducted by school personnel.
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
- Threatening to cause physical injury to any employee of an educational institution or any person attending an educational institution;
- Threatening to cause damage to any educational institution, the property of any educational institution, the property of any employee of an educational institution, or the property on any person attending an educational institution;
- Going on or remaining on the property of any educational institution for the purpose of interfering with or disrupting the lawful use of the property or in any manner as to deny or interfere with the lawful use of the property of others.
- Refusing to obey a lawful order to leave the property of an educational institution.
May require a Threat Assessment to be conducted by school personnel.
Maximum: Expulsion
- Threatening to cause physical injury to any employee of an educational institution or any person attending an educational institution;
- Threatening to cause damage to any educational institution, the property of any educational institution, the property of any employee of an educational institution, or the property on any person attending an educational institution;
- Going on or remaining on the property of any educational institution for the purpose of interfering with or disrupting the lawful use of the property or in any manner as to deny or interfere with the lawful use of the property of others.
- Refusing to obey a lawful order to leave the property of an educational institution.
May require a Threat Assessment to be conducted by school personnel.
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
May require a Threat Assessment to be conducted by school personnel.
Maximum: Expulsion
Sexual Offenses Violations
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Technology Violations
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Theft Violations
Taking or attempting to take money or property belonging to another person or the school without that person’s consent.
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Maximum: Long-Term Suspension
Trespassing Violations
Maximum: Community Break Out of School
Vandalism Violations
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Maximum: Expulsion
Students who have been identified as having an educational disability and receive support through an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Accommodation Plan will be expected to abide by the rules of conduct established for all students, as outlined in the student/parent handbook. When misconduct occurs, procedures for discipline, including suspension and expulsion, shall meet the requirements and regulations of I.D.E.A. or Section 504, as well as applicable state statutes. If a student with a disability has been suspended for a total of 10 or more days, a manifestation determination meeting will be conducted to identify if the student’s misconduct was a result of their disability or related to a failure to implement their IEP or 504 Plan.
Student Suspension and Expulsion/Due Process Rights
A student whose conduct may warrant long-term suspension or expulsion shall be provided with written notice of the alleged misconduct and an opportunity to be heard by an impartial hearing officer. The particular form of due process required shall depend upon the gravity of the situation and the type of discipline invoked. In certain circumstances, an alternative to long-term suspension or expulsion will be offered to the student.
If a student withdraws from school after receiving notice of possible action concerning discipline, suspension, or expulsion, Administration may continue with the action after the withdrawal and may record the results of such action in the student’s permanent file.
Health Services, Records and Medication Policies
Health Services
It is the mission of the health office staff to keep students healthy and in school. For many of our students, the only access they have to medical care is their school. Therefore, ASU Prep is proud to offer free, comprehensive health services for all enrolled ASU Preparatory Academy students.
The ASU Preparatory Academy immersion health office team is comprised of School Nurses (all licensed Registered Nurses [RNs]) and Health Assistants (HAs), who together oversee the provision of school health services and the promotion of health education in the PreK-12 population. The health office team works under the Director of Exceptional Student Services, in conjunction with site administrators, classroom teachers, volunteers, pre-licensure nursing students, interventionists, and data compliance teams. The School Nurse utilizes clinical judgment and serves as a liaison between school personnel, family, community, and healthcare providers to advocate for the health care of all children and a healthy school environment.
Student Health Records
ASU Prep Health Services respects student confidentiality under FERPA and is responsible for maintaining all student school health data within the electronic student information system, Infinite Campus. Parents/guardians are an essential part of the healthcare team, so we ask for the following communication expectations surrounding Health Services and your child’s care:
- Report any chronic illnesses (asthma, anaphylactic allergies, epilepsy, Tourette’s, ADHD, etc.) that may interfere with learning or school day-to-day activities
- Report any new or changed diagnoses/conditions
- Report any new or changed medications
- Report any upcoming absences related to appointments or procedures
- Report any concerns related to student safety or mental health (cutting, substance use, suicidal ideation, etc.)
Parents/guardians will be contacted by a member of the health services team if there is anything essential missing or questions pertaining to their child’s school health record. To request a copy of your student’s health records, please email the request in writing to records@asuprep.org.
It is critical that Infinite Campus contains up-to-date parent/guardian phone numbers for every child enrolled with ASU Prep. Children are allowed to be picked up only by adults whose names are listed under the emergency contact information on Infinite Campus. Release of a student to drive home independently, to be picked up by a non-emergency contact, or driven home by a rideshare (Uber, Lyft, Waymo, etc.) requires written permission from a primary guardian per incident. This written permission may be given through email or text message to a school-based communication line, not in a screenshot sent from the student’s phone. Please note that no child who is sick will be allowed to walk home, even with parental permission.
Medication Administration
Administering medication to students is an important and vital responsibility of the School Nurse and Health Assistant. All medications, including refills, MUST be unopened, unexpired, properly labeled, age-appropriate, and brought to the health office by an adult on the student’s emergency contact list. Medications must be current and unexpired. By law, Health Services will not give medications past the expiration date on the medication label. Arizona gives school districts/networks the responsibility of establishing policies and procedures regarding the administration of prescription medication to students by school employees. In the case of a minor student, administration of medications shall only occur upon the written or verbal request for authorization of a parent or legal guardian.
Student-Specific Medications
should be administered at home with supervision of a parent/guardian, unless specifically ordered by the medical provider to be given during the school day. When it is necessary for a student to receive a medication during the school day, the following procedure has been established to ensure the protection of the students and school, and to assure compliance.
the parent/guardian must complete and sign a Medication Consent Form, available from Health Services. Medications may not be sent to school with students.
will be treated the same as over-the-counter medications, unless it is to be administered for more than three consecutive days, at which point, a provider’s order will be necessary. Herbal preparations must be unopened, unexpired, properly labeled, age-appropriate, and brought to the health office by an adult on the student’s emergency contact list. Medicinal CBD- or THC-containing products will not be administered at school.
must be in the original prescription container labeled by the pharmacist. Label must include: name of the student, name of the medication, dosage, frequency/time to be given, and route. Prescriptions must be in English. Orders are needed for any changes to the medication not noted on the pharmacy label.
Prescription and emergency medications will accompany the student on field trips in a first aid backpack carried by the supervising teacher or adult volunteer chaperone.
are not permitted at school under any circumstances and should be avoided before attending school or extracurriculars due to side effects. Please keep your student home if they have been prescribed narcotics for pain management, and monitor them for signs of dependency.
must be in writing, and must include: Student’s full name, Student’s date of birth, Medication name, Dosage, Frequency/time to be given, Route to be given (oral, dissolved under tongue, injection, etc.), Name of the prescriber, Signature of the prescriber (or printed on provider letterhead), If applicable, special instructions (weight of student, dosage calculations, etc.). Orders may be faxed or sent via encrypted email to Health Services. Please note on the fax: “Attention: Health Services,” and the specific student’s full name and date of birth.
all medications must be removed from Health Services. Medication will not be stored at school over the summer break. A parent/adult must pick up the medications to be taken home. Medications cannot be sent home with students. All medication not picked up by the end of the last day of school will be destroyed and discarded by Health Services.
School Stock Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
will be given safely, as needed, based upon clinical judgment, by a staff member with demonstrated competency in medication administration. The health office does have a supply of acetaminophen that we can give to your student if it appears they will benefit from its use and it will help to keep them in school. However, the frequent use of acetaminophen has been shown to cause liver problems in both children and adults. Therefore, we will use acetaminophen, specifically, on a discretionary and prudent basis.
will be given safely, as needed, based upon clinical judgment, by a staff member with demonstrated competency in medication administration. In order to minimize the possibility of an accidental drug overdose, OTC medications will not be dispensed during the first or last hour of the school day. OTC medications may not be given longer than 3 consecutive days without medical provider order. Communication will be sent home if your child received any OTC medication during school, including non-drowsy antihistamines, antacids, anti-itch topical cream/gel, antibiotic wound ointment, chloraseptic sore throat pain relief spray, and Orajel toothache pain relief.
ASU Preparatory Academy maintains life-saving medications for use in urgent or emergent medical situations. We partner with Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) online program, Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS), and the School Surveillance and Medication Program (SSMP), to establish guidelines and implement policies and procedures that permit our immersion campuses to obtain the following school stock emergency medications:
is a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. It can very quickly restore normal respiration to a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped as a result of overdosing with heroin or prescription opioid pain medications. ASU Preparatory Academy stores at least one two-pack of naloxone at each middle school and high school immersion campus and requires every middle and high school staff member to be trained in signs of prescription drug misuse. We utilize the Stock Narcan Program as a part of the AZ Opioid Epidemic Act/Action Plan, the SSMP, ASU Sun Devil Fitness Center, and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS).
is an inhaled medication used to treat respiratory distress and asthma, a common chronic disease of childhood and a leading cause of school absenteeism. When a child or staff member has a breathing problem at school, the school’s trained staff members can quickly respond, even if the child does not have a personal inhaler. ASU Prep maintains one stock inhaler for emergency use at all immersion campuses, and has therefore been able to expedite respiratory distress treatment, keeping students in the classroom, at school, and avoiding 9-1-1 calls or emergent transport to the hospital.
is an injectable medication that can prevent anaphylaxis and save the lives of those who have a severe known or unknown allergic reaction. ASU Prep utilizes the Stock Epinephrine Program in Schools, training all staff on administration of an epinephrine automatic injector and ensuring the safety of those who may experience a life-threatening allergic reaction. Each ASU Prep immersion campus holds at least two juvenile doses (0.15 mg) and two adult doses (0.3 mg) of auto–injectable epinephrine for emergency use.
Exclusion from School Due to Illness
The health and safety of our students and staff is of utmost importance. Please ensure your child’s school health record in Infinite Campus is up to date with any current conditions or medications. Symptoms of illness in children can appear suddenly, progress rapidly, and spread easily, especially in school settings. The best way to prevent the spread of infection is to wash your hands, so please encourage proper hand hygiene from your Sun Devil at all times.
In an attempt to minimize the spread of infection, we request that you keep your child home if they exhibit any of the symptoms described below. If you are unsure as to whether or not your child’s symptoms are indicative of an illness, we request that you keep your child home for the day, and seek evaluation from a licensed healthcare provider. You may be called to pick up your child from school if they display any of the below symptoms at school. If your child is sent home from school with these symptoms, they may return to school upon completion of the specific treatment instructions from the licensed healthcare provider.
Children should remain home until their symptoms have improved so they can comfortably engage in classroom activities upon their return. Remember: a child sent back to school too soon will be more susceptible to other illnesses and also put other students at risk.
Please provide notes from doctors and dentists to excuse children for appointments, illnesses, or injuries, and report their excused absence to the school. If parents do not authorize absences related to illness, doctor appointments, or injuries within 24 hours after their children return to school, absences are unexcused, regardless of whether or not the student was sent home sick from school.
Pursuant to A.R.S. 15-901 (A)(1), the Arizona Department of Education defines an excused absence as an absence due to illness, doctor appointment, bereavement, family emergencies, and out-of-school suspensions.
Symptoms of Illness Requiring your Child to Stay Home
A core body temperature of 100.4º F (38º C) or higher. If your child needs fever-reducing medications to control their high body temperature, they must remain home until they have been fever-free for 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing medications (such as acetaminophen/Tylenol or ibuprofen/Motrin/Advil). Students may return to school when they are fever-free for 24 hours before arriving to school, without the aid of medications.
One or more episodes of watery or loose stools within 24 hours.
One or more episodes of emesis within 24 hours.
If your child develops an undiagnosed rash, especially if visibly spreading, bleeding, oozing, or accompanied by an elevated temperature, severe itching, or significant discomfort, please keep your child home and seek evaluation from a licensed healthcare provider. Student may return once determined non-contagious by a provider. Provider guidelines for return must be strictly followed.
Ear pain, drainage, or difficulty hearing, especially when accompanied by cold symptoms or a fever may indicate an infection warranting treatment from a provider. If your child has been prescribed antibiotics, they must be on antibiotics for at least 24 hours before returning to school.
Concussions, contusions, lacerations, and skull fractures are examples of serious head injuries. If your child sustains a head injury in school, the family will be notified and given specific recommendations for follow-up. If your child sustained a head injury outside of school, it is the family’s responsibility to please notify health services of the date and nature of the injury before your child returns to school, as additional information may be needed to provide a safe environment for your child’s return to school.
Eye discharge, crust, redness, or “pink eyes.” Student will be sent home from school for clinical diagnostic evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider, in an abundance of caution and in accordance with evidence-based practice. Student may return after evaluation by physician with return to school note, and, if indicated, your child must be on antibiotics for at least 24 hours before returning to school.
Students returning to school after a sprain, strain, fracture, or another injury requiring activity adjustments (i.e. no physical education, no stairs, crutches, etc.) should bring doctor’s orders regarding follow-up care to the school upon return. Restrictions from Physical Education and/or recess in excess of 5 days require a healthcare provider’s written documentation. For injuries requiring an elevator key, please utilize the ASU Prep Physical Activity Restriction Form, which requires a provider’s signature for completion.
Severe sore throat, especially accompanied by lesions, fever, and/or swollen glands may be strep throat. If your child has been diagnosed with strep throat, they must be on antibiotics for at least 24 hours before returning to school. Please do not hesitate to keep your child home longer if the complaints are not greatly improved after only 24 hours.
If your student’s cough or mucus congestion significantly disrupts the learning environment or if your child has thick nasal secretions requiring frequent wiping, please keep them home until their symptoms resolve. Should these symptoms develop at school, we will request that you take him/her home for evaluation from a licensed healthcare provider. This guidance also pertains to students with chronic respiratory conditions (i.e. asthma, allergies), as increasing symptoms can indicate a worsening health condition. Acute respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are common in children and can be very contagious. Please inform the school of any confirmed diagnoses, especially if your child is diagnosed with a communicable disease.
Administrators of schools, childcare establishments and shelters are required to report under Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R9-6-203, either personally or through a representative.
Excessive sleepiness, irritability, or unusual behaviors, especially in younger children may be indicative of the onset of illness. Children are uncomfortable, unhappy, and do not benefit from the classroom at these times.
A head lice infestation is not a communicable disease, and no health risks have been associated with head lice. Upon discovery of at least one live louse, the family of the affected student will be notified, given home-care instructions, and a home treatment will be required within 24 hours of notification. The affected student must be accompanied by their parents to health services upon arrival to school the following day and confirm completion of treatment.
Pontius, 2014; CDC, 2015, para. 2; CDC, 2019, Do Head Lice Spread Disease section
Devore et al., 2015; CDC, 2015, para. 3
Returning to School after Significant Illness, Injury, Surgery, or Hospitalization
To maintain the health and safety of our students, it is essential that we receive current information on a child who is returning to school after a prolonged period of absence. Please provide notes from doctors and dentists to excuse children for appointments, illnesses, or injuries, and report their excused absence to the school. If parents do not authorize absences related to illness, doctor appointments, or injuries within 24 hours after their children return to school, absences are unexcused. The initiation of the chronic illness process may be discussed on a case-by-case basis or upon parent request with your campus’s site-level chronic illness coordinator (SLCIC).
In the event that a student is absent for three (3) or more consecutive days, is hospitalized, has a need to go to the Emergency Room, or has a change in their functional status (i.e. change in weight bearing status, activity restriction, etc.), please contact health services before returning your child to school. Upon discharge from an in-patient psychiatric or behavioral health facility, the school may require a collaborative discussion with the family and the school team to discuss your child’s safety needs upon reentry. We request in all such situations that a parent/guardian call the school prior to the student returning to discuss necessary documentation. All documentation can be brought to the school via hard copy, emailed to the school health office team, or faxed, if applicable.
Pursuant to A.R.S. 15-901 (A)(1), the Arizona Department of Education defines an excused absence as an absence due to illness, doctor appointment, bereavement, family emergencies, and out-of-school suspensions.