HANDBOOK
The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook
SECTION I: SCHOOL DIRECTORY
HOW TO CONTACT THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY OF SARASOTA
School Phone Number...... 941-925-2153 School Fax Line...... 941-377-7166 School Address...... 8751 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34240 School Web Page ...... www.tcasarasota.com School E-Mail Address ...... [email protected]
**Handbook adapted with permission from Hillsdale College
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Dear Parents and Students,
Welcome to The Classical Academy of Sarasota. We are glad that you have chosen a TCA education and we are convinced that you have made a good choice. At TCA, our students learn from the masters. From Aesop and George Washington in kindergarten, Michelangelo and Beethoven in fifth grade, and The Federalist Papers and modern science in upper school, our teachers lead their students to the riches of the Western Tradition. It is our conviction that all students can and should learn about the events, documents, and discoveries which have shaped our tradition and led us to where we are today. A basic premise of classical education is that we have much to learn from our ancestors, especially those who made history. Studying the culture- shaping events, texts, theories, works of art, and biographies that came before us, slowly creates a background in front of which our students begin to understand the events of today.
In addition, or rather, as a condition of becoming culturally literate, we hold that our students ought to be good human beings. Intelligence and learning by themselves do not necessitate goodness. Therefore, our students ought to be honest, respectful, full of integrity and perseverance; they ought to cooperate with others, be responsible, and display citizenship and courage in their daily lives. Virtue is more than an adornment of a classical education; it is its conditio sine qua non (an indispensable condition). It is only fitting, therefore, that the mission of our school is to hold everyone to high academic and ethical standards.
We know that elevating the minds and character of our students is neither an easy task nor is it guaranteed to succeed. Any time we transcend the status quo, we have to seek out a certain amount of discomfort. The removal of ignorance from our minds requires effort. This effort usually pays off quickly, but if you have concerns about your child's progress, we encourage you to speak with his or her teachers in order to make sure that we are all working for the benefit of your child's intellectual and moral growth. As teachers we know that we don't know everything and we benefit from hearing about your experience in the home; please don't hesitate to contact us.
What we do know from first-hand experience, however, is that a classical education ends up being fun for those who stick with it. Our students delight in being challenged, they rise to the tasks we give them, and they astound us, themselves, and their parents with their eloquence, their learning, and, more often than not, with a maturity that is beyond their peers. The years between kindergarten and graduation at TCA will be full of the wonders of young students growing intellectually, socially, and morally to become men and women of excellence and virtue.
It is our promise to you that we will do what we can to help our students establish good, humane habits of the mind and heart as they grow up amidst a myriad of challenges and influences. It is our ambition to offer time-tested, meaningful challenges and thus influence our students according to the ideals of our tradition. It is our hope that our students will delight you with the knowledge and the character traits that TCA's classical education espouses.
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Section II: Overview The Classical Academy’s Framework
The underlying philosophy of The Classical Academy is inspired by, and was created in collaboration with, Hillsdale College, located in Hillsdale, MI. TCA was also purposefully modeled after successful classical schools like Ridgeview Classical School in Fort Collins, CO, Nova Classical School in St. Paul, MN and Parnassus Preparatory School in Maple Grove, MN. The writings of Dr. T.O. Moore, along with the following books have helped lay the foundation for TCA: Cultural Literacy by E.D. Hirsch, Jr., Why Johnny Can’t Tell Right from Wrong by William Kilpatrick, Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman and The Schools We Need and Why We Don’t Have Them by E.D. Hirsch, Jr.
A coherent and unified philosophy is one of the key areas of a stable school, and will drive everything from assessment to hiring to discipline to textbook selection.
MISSION STATEMENT The mission of The Classical Academy of Sarasota is to provide an excellent K-12 education which develops the academic potential of each student through a rigorous, content-rich, classical liberal arts education while building in them a virtuous character.
PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT It is the philosophy of The Classical Academy of Sarasota that all students benefit from a rigorous, content-rich, educational program that develops academic potential and personal character. The school will provide an environment that fosters academic excellence through the habit of thoroughness, the willingness to work, and the perseverance to complete difficult tasks. Through a defined traditional, classical-liberal arts curriculum students will be prepared to become active, responsible members of their community.
ACADEMIC STANDARDS The Classical Academy of Sarasota will uphold high academic standards for all students regardless of background, socio-economic status, and ability. The curriculum will be content- rich, following the classical-liberal, traditional education model, with provisions to challenge all students to fulfill their individual academic potential. Objective standards will be monitored and maintained Promotion and graduation requirements will meet or exceed state requirements. Students shall take the defined curriculum and must earn promotion and graduation. The student schedule will be predominantly occupied by the defined curriculum. Students will be assessed through class work, regular assignments, and periodic tests.
EDUCATION GROUNDED IN VIRTUE The Classical Academy of Sarasota’s environment and curriculum are designed to promote and build strength of character in students. The four classical virtues of temperance, prudence, fortitude, and justice will be taught, modeled and expected by all those who are a part of TCA The values of a democratic society will be identified and clearly taught. Outstanding people will be used as role models throughout the curriculum to teach virtue.
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LEARNING ENVIRONMENT The Classical Academy of Sarasota will promote a safe environment that fosters learning and character development. There will be a defined standard of appearance and a regulated campus. Positive student/parent/teacher relationships will be fostered. Extra-curricular activities will be encouraged. Success in our rigorous academic program is dependent upon consistent student effort and completion of assignments. The faculty will be a unified group of professionals focused on student achievement.
STUDY SKILLS The Classical Academy of Sarasota will provide the opportunity for all students to acquire the mastery of study skills, which make learning possible and encourage self-motivation. Study skills (time management, research skills, note-taking) will be integrated throughout the curriculum. Teachers will evaluate the mastery of study skills.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Graduation requirements will exceed those outlined by Sarasota County and the state of Florida. See Graduation Requirements – Policy AP - 7.15
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Ancient Rome is believed to have been built upon seven hills. Each of these hills was believed at one time to have been heavily fortified with a walled city. These hills are the foundation on which Rome still stands today. At TCA, we believe in certain foundational truths, “hills”, that will direct the leadership, administration and faculty now and in the years to come. We establish these basic truths as a foundation to preserve the intent of our mission in developing graduates who are logical thinkers, coherent writers, confident speakers, thoughtful leaders and responsible virtuous citizens.
The Seven Hills of The Classical Academy:
1. CLASSICAL EDUCATION: Our philosophy of education is built upon classical education, which not only helped shaped the founding of this great country, but has a rich and deep history dating back over 2500 years to the time of Plato and Aristotle. A classical liberal arts education provides a student with the greatest of all tools: a logical mind. It is a back-to-basics education, built around the chronological study of history, using first-source documents and great works of literature.
2. VIRTUE: Education without virtue is a fruitless endeavor. As Benjamin Franklin noted, “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom”. The four classical virtues of temperance, fortitude, justice and prudence will be taught, modeled and expected by all those who are a part of the TCA community. Virtue is the foundation for a happy and prosperous life, and it will be woven into everything we do at TCA.
3. EXCELLENCE: In a society which accepts mediocrity as the standard, TCA will raise the bar and expect students to strive for excellence in everything they do. The leadership of TCA acknowledges that excellence should become a habit, and will expect students to practice this habit daily in their academics, in their relationships, and in their deeds, with the aim that this habit encompasses every area of their lives.
4. SMALL COMMUNITY: Relationships and mentoring happen best in a small community. The trust and accountability formed between faculty and students will create an educational environment of rigor and excellence. Faculty will learn the strengths and weaknesses of students, knowing how best to challenge and inspire them to achieve their full potential. To this end, TCA’s graduating class will never exceed 50 students, no matter the waiting list or demand. This same environment will also be expected between parents and TCA, where classrooms are always open for observation and volunteers are welcomed.
5. AFFORDABLE EDUCATION: An excellent classical education should be available to every child. The leadership of TCA will purposefully strive to find ways to maintain or lower the cost of tuition. TCA will continually seek outside support from community members and businesses who believe in the mission of the school. The funds raised will be used to limit the costs to families, in addition to creating Heritage Scholarships ensuring that tuition is never a barrier.
6. SELF-GOVERNMENT: "The qualifications for self-government in society are not innate. They are the result of habit and long training." – Thomas Jefferson. Our faculty will train our students in these habits, expecting the proper conduct of ladies and gentlemen at all times, from their interactions with one another to their interactions with teachers and parents. Students will learn to govern their thoughts, their emotions, their actions and reactions, and their impulses.
7. THE GOOD, THE BEAUTIFUL AND THE TRUE: The aim of classical education, and consequently TCA, is to teach children to spend time with, enjoy, discuss and think about the good, the beautiful, and the true. This includes how students spend their leisure time, the books they read, the music they listen to, the movies they watch, and the people with whom they spend time. Our students will study the diverse opinions within the great ideas of history and literature, and will be readily able to decipher what is good, what is beautiful, and what is true.
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CORE PRINCIPLES HELD TO BE NON-NEGOTIABLE BY THE TCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
1. Role of Principal a) The Principal is the intellectual academic leader of the school with a philosophical understanding of classical/liberal education. b) The Principal implements curriculum as defined by the classical-liberal tradition. The school's practices are defined as outlined in the school’s handbook. c) The Principal makes final decisions on staffing and curriculum, accountable to the Board of Directors. d) The Principal, while chiefly the academic leader, is also responsible for the discipline, moral culture, and financial priorities of the school.
2. School Culture a) TCA is a private school with limited enrollment criteria. We believe that all children are able to achieve academic excellence when challenged with a rigorous classical education. b) TCA's practices require a small PreK-12 atmosphere with a closed campus. This conscious choice ensures that all students are known and educated by caring adults. c) The Principal is accountable for the well-being of every student. Faculty members personally know each of their students as well as others. d) The four classical virtues (temperance, prudence, fortitude, and justice) are taught, modeled and expected by all faculty and staff. Additionally, teachers will train students TCA’s habits of virtue. Students will be continually reminded to practice these habits which lead to the inculcation of the classical virtues. e) TCA upholds the established dress code. f) Discipline policies are designed to prevent interruption of teaching and learning as well as reinforce our virtues. g) TCA classrooms are open for observation at any time.
3. Education a) Our educational philosophy is expressed in the article “What Kind of School Is TCA” found on own website, as well as by the other writings Dr. T.O. Moore, James Kilpatrick (Why Johnny Can't Tell Right From Wrong) and Neil Postman (Amusing Ourselves to Death). b) Interventions utilized to achieve TCA's expectations are targeted and specific to each individual. c) TCA resists grade inflation and social promotion. Mastery of core subjects-always takes priority. d) Latin is taught at all grade levels. e) Successful completion of a senior thesis is a requirement for graduation. f) Students will be academically prepared to pursue multiple post-secondary options. Students who do not intend to attend college will always be welcome at TCA. g) Literacy is taught through an explicit phonics program. Math is taught conceptually using the Socratic Method. h) Standardized tests do not drive our curriculum.
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4. Teachers a) The Principal employs teachers based on their mastery of an academic discipline, their ability to convey knowledge to young people, and their capacity to maintain order and decorum in the classroom. A bachelor’s degree is a condition of employment. b) TCA teachers are treated as professionals. Their professional development includes a multi-week training prior to the start of the school year, to be coordinated by the Principal. c) Teachers are expected to dress professionally every day, setting a standard of excellence and expectation for TCA as a serious place of study. d) Teachers are evaluated by administration regularly to ensure that the philosophy, excellence, and heart of TCA is maintained. e) All full time teachers are expected to attend weekly staff meetings.
5. Parents and Students a) Parents' support of the school's academic and moral mission is essential. b) The parents role in the education of their children is as important, if not more so, than that of TCA. The educational environment created in the home will establish the foundation for learning; i.e. reading as a family, setting aside study time, helping with homework, discussing the school day and great ideas, etc. c) The students have to be polite and attentive. Manners should be modeled, taught, and expected. d) Parents should model a love of learning. Books should be read as a family and parents should be reading alongside their children in order to facilitate great conversations. e) Technology should be limited, as it may become a significant distraction, and ultimately may detract from the building of an educated mind.
6. Board of Directors a) Our budgeting philosophy is conservative. As a small private school we know that our resources are limited and the budget will reflect this mindset. b) Along with budgeting, a significant role of the Board is in fundraising. As a private school we are dependent upon the generosity of outside donations, Board members take an active role in soliciting funds.
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SECTION III: THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY’S COMMUNITY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS (BOD)
The Classical Academy of Sarasota is a non-profit 501c3 corporation. The Board of Directors for the TCA is responsible for working with the administration in adopting policies and procedures, overseeing the management of the school and ensuring financial compliance and responsibility. As a part of its financial responsibilities the BOD shall adopt an annual budget and approve any changes to the budget throughout the year. In addition, the BOD will ensure that the mission and goals of TCA are carried out by engaging in strategic planning, including capital campaigns and building expansion. The BOD will not be involved in the daily operations of the school, except in cases brought before it that have not been satisfactorily resolved. The BOD shall participate in its sole discretion in the hiring and termination of staff, as described in the by-laws of TCA. The BOD is responsible for determining the duties, the hiring, salary, contract, and annual performance evaluation of the Principal.
Each member of the BOD will seek opportunities in governance training and will continually seek to gain insight and understanding in the classical philosophy. New board members will be selected in accordance with the by-laws.
The BOD, in partnership with the administration, will also perform an annual assessment of the school and its programs and its operations. The BOD also routinely assesses its own performance.
The Board of Directors is responsible for setting the salary schedule and approving the annual budget for staffing needs.
The requirements that need to be met to be eligible for the BOD are as follows:
Candidates for the Board must meet the following criteria: An applicant must show a working knowledge of board procedure, board policies, bylaws, articles of incorporation and Florida State Law relevant to private schools and education. Have read and support wholeheartedly the views presented in the articles contained on our website and demonstrate a consistent and increasing understanding of classical education. Visit at least one class in lower and upper school each semester. Have a demonstrated history and continued commitment to the school by volunteering and serving on a regular basis for at least 12 months prior to their application to run for the Board. A commitment to the mission and philosophy of TCA Individuals with varying and diverse educational and career backgrounds who will add experience and expertise in their field. Fields including but not limited to: o Business o Finance o Law o Fundraising o Education o Medical o Entrepreneurs o Government Have a demonstrated history and continued commitment to personal growth and learning Embrace the ideals of classical education
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Teacher – Parent Responsibilities for TCA Classical Schools
TEACHERS
Teachers are heart of the school. Without dedicated competent teachers, the best educational practices will never come to fruition in the classroom. TCA’s teachers are expected to implement TCA’s academic mission. In the classroom, the teacher is in charge. Outside of the classroom, teachers receive professional guidance with respect to specific goals and objectives from the Principal.
Teachers are professionals. Professionalism refers to conducting oneself with the dignity and gravitas that befit the activity of learning. Professionalism among teachers also entails continued studies both in one’s area of expertise and in the liberal arts and sciences generally. Every teacher should be the master of his own academic discipline and of the art of teaching. As such, an experienced teacher should be able to convey the best methods of teaching his subject to junior members of the profession.
Teachers have different styles of teaching. Socrates asked questions. Aristotle delivered lectures. The teacher’s style sets the intellectual tone for the class. Teachers may enlist parental support. Indeed, teachers are encouraged to incorporate volunteer efforts in the classroom. Nonetheless, teachers have the ultimate responsibility over the direction and scope of the class. All teachers accept the responsibility for teaching the entire curriculum, both content and skills, in a way consistent with the school’s philosophy.
What TCA Is What TCA Is NOT INSTRUCTION Knowledge Centered Student Centered Teacher directed instruction Self-directed student learning Focus on intellectual, factual learning Discovery learning Teacher is source of knowledge Cooperative learning groups Teaching a rigorous rich challenging Teaching to the state test curriculum regardless of state standards Enrichment and ‘”fun “ activities Focus on mastery and excellence (TCA believes that learning is fun!) Rote learning and memorization of necessary Rejects memorization facts in Grammar School Fill-in-the-blank worksheets, multiple Complete thoughts and sentences are the choice, and word searches norm, students create from a blank slate Morality develops from individual Virtue taught through excellent literature, experience, focus on self-esteem demonstrated by adults and expected from Social promotion is preferred students Emphasis on “whole-child” Emphasis on academic skills in traditional core approach/measured subjectively areas/measured objectively
CURRICULUM Standards based on 2500 years of the best of Standards based on experimental and the Western Canon untested New Common Core Focus on academic facts Focus on social concerns
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Use of primary sources and great literature Use of textbooks – secondary sources History and geography are defined subjects Social Studies combines history, Focus on American heritage, national geography, sociology and anthropology sovereignty, and cross-cultural studies Focus on diversity, multiculturalism, and Reading taught through explicit phonics global citizenship Reading taught through whole language
CLASSROOM Scholarly setting Emphasis on social setting Visuals related to curriculum Busy and distracting decorations Students face teacher and board at front Pod or group setting where students have Emphasis on excellent instruction and their backs to teacher or the board imparting wisdom Emphasis on technology and computer lab One curriculum related event each time semester Classroom parties throughout the year A great book in every student’s hand An I-pad in every student’s hand
At The Classical Academy of Sarasota, education is derived from the philosophies found in the left- hand column. By enrolling your child at TCA, you will witness firsthand the quality and benefits of a Classical Education and a specific virtue based curriculum.
PARENTS
At TCA, parents are an important part of the educational effort. Parents are expected to: Model virtuous character Demonstrate a love of learning Help their children develop effective study skills Oversee regular reading and writing and mathematics skill development Stimulate discussion and exploration of ideas and events with students, and Support the school goals through familiarity with the Handbook, through homework review, getting children to school on time, and holding high expectations and aspirations that contribute positively to the student’s success Attend Parent Information and Enrichment Nights
Student self-esteem and belonging develop from practice and accomplishment, from consistent expectations in the school climate and culture, and from achieving good character and citizenship.
STUDENT ACCOUNTABILITY
The aim of TCA is to teach students. “Student” derives from the Latin word studēre, which means “to give attention to,” “to take pains with,” “to apply oneself to,” “to strive after,” “to pursue,” “to desire.” Students, then, are by definition diligent in, attached to, zealous for, their studies. We simply expect students to live up to their name. The teachers of TCA will work hard to prepare their lessons. These lessons are designed to teach students nothing less than who they are and what the world offers them. Students must in turn take fullest advantage of these lessons and make the best use of this time of their lives given to preparing their minds for the opportunities and challenges that await them. All policies
11 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook regarding student conduct and discipline flow from this general principle: students must fully engage themselves in the education TCA offers them.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
We have received much support from individuals and businesses within our local community. Community relations will continue to be important to us, and we are all good-will ambassadors for TCA. We hope to continue creating partnerships with local businesses and pursue grant opportunities. Any information or expertise you can offer in this area is greatly appreciated. TCA may recruit individuals from the community to provide supplementary educational experiences for the students.
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Parent and Student Agreement
The Classical Academy of Sarasota holds that excellence, the pursuit of virtue and the principles of self-government, as espoused by America’s Founding Fathers, are the foundation for a happy and prosperous life. These principles are a part of all that we do as a school. Our board, administration, faculty and staff support these principles, and we desire our families and students to reflect these ideals. In addition, you also agree to the following guidelines:
As parents of a TCA student, we understand that the education of our child is not the sole responsibility of the school, and agree to the following principles, which will help our child to achieve his or her full potential. As parents of a TCA student, we agree to: Uphold the virtues taught at TCA and reinforce them at home Temperance, Prudence, Fortitude and Justice Set time aside each day for our child to study Encourage and model reading of great literature Spend less time in front of the screen and more time engaged as a family Hold our child to a standard of excellence in everything he or she does Support the TCA community and its Seven Hills Have great conversations with our child about great things Seek out the good, the beautiful and the true
As a student of TCA, I understand that my education is my responsibility, and I will work, with excellence, in all I do to help ensure that I achieve my full potential. As a student of TCA, I agree to: Live by the virtues I am taught and see modeled at TCA Temperance, Prudence, Fortitude and Justice Set aside time each day for study and the reading of great books Spend less time in front of the screen and more time engaged with my family Support my friends and teachers at TCA Inspire my parents and family to have great conversations Do my best in everything, constantly striving for excellence Seek out the good, the beautiful and the true Behave as a lady or gentleman at all times Uphold the TCA Honor Code:
A TCA student is honest in conduct, committed to serious study, respectful of the rights of others and exemplifies a standard of excellence, with the aim of becoming a virtuous scholar and citizen.
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THE CURRICULUM
ACADEMIC PROGRAM POLICIES-AP
Policy AP-1.0 Educational Priorities
The BOD desires that all students receive a classical, liberal education. To this end the BOD has determined the following educational priorities.
1. Basic cognitive skills: reading / writing / mathematics. 2. Core subjects: English language and literature; history, geography, and government; physical and biological sciences; mathematics. 3. Other classical subjects: music; art; Latin. 4. Auxiliary subjects: foreign languages, P.E., performing arts, other social sciences. 5. Extracurricular activities of any type as defined by the Principal.
Lower School: The lower school curriculum will follow the curriculum guides created by the Principal along with the sequencing of our chosen curriculum. Occasionally, the School will diverge from these guides in order to raise the standards in teaching a particular skill or subject. The Principal will determine these instances. The Principal will ensure that all skill areas in the school curriculum guides are taught.
Upper School: The Upper School will feature an advanced arts and sciences curriculum. The objective of the high school curriculum is to explore issues and texts intensively rather than to offer a superficial “covering.” The humanities program will be centered on a coordinated Western Civilization sequence. In all humanities courses, priority will be given to original sources and great works as opposed to textbooks. Mathematics and the sciences will offer rigorous training in the fundamentals and theories of these disciplines. Students will receive extensive training in analytical thinking and the scientific method. In all subjects textbooks will be used as a resource, not as the basis of the curriculum. Teachers must develop a curriculum under the direction of the Principal who is accountable to the BOD.
Policy AP – 1.1 Special Events – Parties
Special events or parties held during a significant part of the school day must be directly tied to the curriculum and add to the instructional environment by conveying knowledge or an experience that supports the curriculum.
Any special event or party must be approved by the Principal a minimum of 2 weeks prior to its planning. Approval for one year does not carry over to the next.
Policy AP – 1.2 Special Events – Guest Speakers
Guest speakers utilized during the school day must speak on topics covered in the course or grade. If possible the students should be in process of studying the topic to be presented.
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Guest Speakers must be approved by the Principal prior to the invitation being extended. Approval must still be obtained for guest speakers used in the previous school year. Approval for one year does not carry over to the next.
Policy AP – 1.3 Special Events – Birthdays
Parents may bring in birthday treats on the child’s birthday. Treats may be store bought or homemade. The student’s birthday will be celebrated during the last 10 minutes of the day and the treats will be handed out during this time. Invitations for birthday parties may be handed out in class so long as all students in the class are included. If only a few students are being invited, invitations must be given outside of school.
Policy AP – 1.4 Special Events – Field Trips
Field trips should be directly tied to the curriculum and add to the instructional environment by conveying knowledge or an experience that supports the curriculum. Field trips must be approved by the Principal two weeks prior to planning. The teacher or field trip organizer will work with the Principal to ensure that all procedures are followed.
Policy AP - 1.5 Special Events - Extended Field Trips
All extended field trips require individual Administrative approval a minimum of 90 days (180 days outside US) prior to the trip. All students attending the extended field trip must have unanimous approval of the administrators of TCA. For upper school students, the trip must include coursework and/or lesson plans and all students must be awarded credit and a letter grade, which will be based on the accompanying coursework as well as their behavior on the trip. All extended field trips must have liability insurance protecting all the trip attendees and the school. Any liability insurance not covered by the school's policy must be paid for by the fees charged to trip participants. Any increases in the costs of extended field trips (due to inflation, changes in exchange rates, etc.) must be paid for by directly by trip participants. All adults attending the field trip are required to be currently registered volunteers. The field trip organizer will work with the Principal to insure that all procedures are followed.
Policy AP – 2.0 Academic Textbooks and Supplies
The Classical Academy of Sarasota desires the best in learning materials for its students. Materials that are loaned or given to students are to be treated appropriately. Students are responsible for these materials. If materials given to a student are lost the student must pay for any needed replacement. If loaned materials are lost or damaged the student must also pay for its replacement.
In the case that reimbursement has not been made to TCA for lost or damaged materials no further materials will be purchased or issued to that student until the past due fees are paid.
In all grades, a literature fee will be charged each year. In the lower grades (PreK-2) this fee will be used to purchase phonogram cards for each family to be used at home. In other grades this fee will be used to purchase each student a copy of the literature which will be read during the year. These literature books will become property of the student, with the aim of building a classical library of
15 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook books which the student has read and loved, by the time of graduation. These books are expected to become well-worn from use and reading, with underlined text and notes in the margins.
Policy AP - 3.0 Teaching Human Sexuality
The Classical Academy believes it is the fundamental responsibility of the parent to educate their children in regard to human sexuality. To this end, TCA will not teach human sexuality or the reproductive system in the lower and middle schools. The reproductive system will be taught as a part of Biology in ninth grade, but the traditional sex education class will not be taught in the high school or in any grade.
TCA will host Parent Information and Enrichment Nights (PIE Nights) throughout the school year. One of the topics to be discussed each year will be the parent’s responsibility and role in teaching human sexuality. TCA Administration and Staff will present information and provide resources to parents, in order to equip them with the wisdom and tools needed to discuss this sensitive, yet vital topic.
When the topics of love and marriage are discussed in class, they will always be discussed within the context of a monogamous relationship.
Policy AP – 4.0 Teaching Evolution
The Classical Academy of Sarasota embraces a rigorous program in the natural sciences. In biology, the school will teach the theory of evolution as found in the standard high-school biology textbooks, and as also taught at the college level in both secular and religious colleges. The theory of evolution is largely misunderstood today by the general public. Much of what constitutes the teaching of evolution concerns adaptation of species to their environment and change over time. A great many of these phenomena are observable on a micro-level. Furthermore, the study of science will be confined to the investigation of the physical world. It is not the place of science to make metaphysical claims nor to confirm or deny the validity of religion or the existence of God. TCA recognizes a clear distinction between science and scientism. Science is the continued research into the natural world in order to find the most plausible explanations for natural phenomena. Scientism is the belief—and it is a belief—that science is the only means of understanding our world, thus excluding other ways of interpreting the world, such as through literature or religion. Keeping in mind this distinction, the teachers at TCA will leave matters of faith up to students and their parents. The role of a teacher in our school is neither that of preacher nor of skeptic. Rather teachers of history, when called upon by the curriculum, will teach the history of religion without either advocating or undermining religion in general or any specific faith. Likewise, science teachers will teach science, without comment on religion. Teachers, students, and parents must realize that a biology class has a particular purpose and is not the proper venue for a philosophical or theological discussion on the existence of God or claims relating to the activity of God or absence thereof in the natural world.
POLICY AP - 5.0 Technology
At TCA, the training and building of the mind is our highest goal. We believe that the greatest gifts we can give our children are the ability to think logically, to write and speak in complete sentences, to have a body of knowledge which can be called forth from the mind, to have real discussions, and to build real relationships. Our society and our children our inundated by technology; phones, TV’s, I-
16 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook pods, video games, laptops, the screen is everywhere. Mankind is losing the ability to reflect, contemplate, read long passages, think philosophically, and write beautifully. We are losing the things which make us human and we are beginning to more closely resemble computers. Our children are being raised by the screen and are being taught that whenever there is a question we just “google it”. Children are building relationships through social media and are losing the ability to have real conversation.
Children need a well-trained mind, built upon a foundation of knowledge, for skills to rest upon. Our aim is to train students to be logical and articulate through the reading of great text and deep discussions. At TCA we want students focused on the instructor and what is being discussed in the class, not engaged with a screen. The use of technology will be minimal and only used as a tool to enhance instruction. Students will not be allowed to have cell phones on campus and laptops will only be utilized in upper school for typing papers. When students are asked to do research, specific websites will be given, so that students are not relying upon random searches with unreliable information.
Electronic Mail Teachers and administration will all have school email accounts, which parents and students can use to communicate with staff.
Social Media The expectation for TCA teachers, students and parents is that they maintain a virtuous character at all times. Social media is no exception. We expect that the things posted and discussed on social media sites by individuals associated with TCA maintain a high level of excellence. Students and teachers will be held accountable for questionable, malicious, or inappropriate items found on social media sites. Teachers are asked not to interact with students through social media.
Penalties for Inappropriate Actions: Penalties for inappropriate posts or use of social media will be dealt with on an individual basis. Discipline may include: Demerits Detention Suspension Expulsion
Personal Electronic Devices Personal electronic devices are a distraction to the student. Students are encouraged to leave these devices at home. If electronic devices are brought to school, they must be turned off and stored in the student’s backpack. If a student needs to use the phone, they may come to the office and use the school phone. Parents may always reach their student by calling the office.
If a student is caught using a personal electronic device, it will be confiscated immediately and taken to the office. A student or parent may retrieve the device from the Principal according to the following policy guidelines:
1st offense – Student may retrieve device at end of school day 2nd offense – Parent must retrieve device at end of school day.
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3rd offense– Parent and student must come in for a conference with the Principal
Laptops may only be used by students enrolled in dual enrollment classes or by students with direct permission from professors. Students using laptops must be monitored at all times. Students using laptops for anything other than school work will no longer be allowed to bring their laptop to school.
We refer parents to Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman and The Shallows by Nicholas G. Carr supporting references for our philosophy on technology.
Policy AP - 5.1 Video Viewing Policy
From time to time videos or other media may be used to support the lesson. To be used in class they must meet a specific curricular objective and be age appropriate. Teachers must receive prior approval from the Principal in order to show a video. Teachers are responsible for previewing videos to ensure that they are appropriate. We will not watch movies connected with our literature, as we believe it robs our students of their imaginations and takes away from the beauty of literature.
Policy AP-6.0 Grading Policy
Grades are a useful tool to evaluate the extent to which a student has mastered a particular skill or course. Therefore, grades will be assigned in all subjects. TCA will assign grades in order to accurately reflect the range between true mastery and insufficient knowledge of a particular subject. Grade inflation is discouraged.
The following letter grades have these meanings: A – Mastery B – Proficiency C – Sufficiency (Competence) D – Insufficiency F – Failing
TCA will use a 4.0 grading scale. The letter and numerical grades for this system are listed below:
A 94-100 4.0 A- 90-93 3.7 B+ 87-89 3.3 B 84-86 3.3 B- 80-83 2.7 C+ 77-79 2.3 C 74-76 2.0 C- 70-73 1.7 D+ 67-69 1.3 D 64-66 1.0 D- 60-63 0.7 F 0-59 0.0
The grading scale as defined above is utilized for all students with the exception of kindergarten through second grade, where the scale will reflect M (Mastery), P (Proficient), S (Satisfactory), or N (Needs Improvement). Incompletes will only be given under special circumstances as determined by the Principal.
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Feedback is vital to the learning process. Students must have significant response from teachers. Feedback must be given in two forms: grading and commentary. Grading shall take place four times throughout the year given at the end of each quarter. Each quarter shall last approximately nine weeks. The second type of feedback, commentary, is just as important. Faculty must provide feedback, oral or written, on assignments.
Assignments will be graded and handed back within two weeks of receipt. Grades will be posted on School Classics within the same time frame.
Parents and students should always be informed of the student’s progress. Teachers are strongly encouraged to communicate with parents when students appear to be struggling with the curriculum. It is mandatory to make parent contact for every student who has an overall letter grade of “D” or below. To be in good academic standing and be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities and sports, the student must have a “C” or above in every class.
Policy AP-7.0 Homework
At The Classical Academy we value family time and extracurricular activities. That being said, we also acknowledge that we cannot accomplish our high standards of academic excellence without the aid of homework. Homework is a fundamental part of our general academic program but will never be given as busy work. Homework prepares students for high school and college and for entry into the working world upon graduation. It also helps develop a strong work ethic and personal organizational skills. Homework’s immediate educational purpose is: to reinforce skills and concepts learned in class; to develop study skills and habits; to practice skills and knowledge in ways that are not readily accomplished in the classroom; to inform parents of what is being taught in the classroom.
TCA acknowledges that some students will necessarily take longer on a given assignment than others. The extra study and time spent is necessary for those students to fill in any educational gaps that may exist. It is our belief that when students who struggle demonstrate grit and apply themselves fully to their studies, the time it takes to complete homework will decrease proportionally. We do not want to overwhelm students with homework, but students must remain diligent and focused in their studies. By doing so, the time spent on homework should reflect the guidelines below.
In addition to regular classroom assignments, we would like each young child to read, or be read to, at least three times a week (a minimum of 100 minutes) and preferably every day. As cited in A Nation at Risk, “the single most important factor for determining whether children will go to college is being read to as a child.” Going to college is not necessarily a goal for everyone, but becoming a life-long learner should be if one hopes to remain competitive throughout one’s lifetime. We believe that becoming a competent reader is critical to being a good student and the first step to being able to explore the world. By reading to your child you encourage your child’s growth and strengthen family ties. By making sure your child is reading at home you are directly contributing to his education. By reading in front of your children, you model good habits and reinforce your expectations.
The expected homework time allotment for each grade is as follows:
Kindergarten- family reading time, practice of phonograms and math facts
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Grade 1 - reading time, practice of phonograms and math facts Grade 2 – reading time, practice of phonograms and math facts Grade 3 - 30 minutes plus reading time Grade 4 - 40 minutes plus reading time Grade 5 - 50 minutes plus reading time Grade 6 - 60 minutes plus reading time Grade 7 - 60 minutes plus reading time Grade 8 - 60 minutes plus reading time Grades 9 -12: 60 to 90 minutes plus reading time
The designated times serve as guidelines and may vary depending on the work assigned on a given day, the schedule, the student’s organizational skills and study habits, and the nature of the assignments. Students are expected to learn how to use their time effectively to complete the required work at each grade level. Parents are expected to support their children in this endeavor by providing a suitable, quiet place to work, free from intrusion by other family members and the various media.
Homework should be an opportunity for practice or for acquisition of background material, not given as busy work. Parents are not expected to “teach” material to students.
All assignments must be turned in on time. Half credit will be given for assignments that are one day late. No credit will be given for work turned in more than one day late. For poor or incomplete work, teachers may require students to redo an assignment. Whether such work is given any credit is left to the discretion of the teacher.
Medical conditions are the only routinely excused absences. Students have one school day for each day missed to turn in assignments and make up missed work. Absences for any other reasons must be excused by the Principal.
Homework will not be sent home nor will credit be awarded for any work done during periods of unexcused absence.
Policy AP - 7.1 Plagiarism
Plagiarism will not be tolerated by any teacher in any subject. Students progress academically only by receiving comments and corrections on work they turn in and by taking these comments and corrections to heart in order to improve their performance. The entire system of assessment rests on the assumption that the work a student turns in is his own. Plagiarism compromises this system, is unfair to other students in the class who do their own work, and constitutes a form of theft of others’ ideas and labor. Plagiarism is defined as the appropriation of another’s ideas or words in order to present them as one’s own. An instance of plagiarism can be as long as a term paper or as short as a sentence. Simply rephrasing an author’s words can also constitute plagiarism. The words of authors can only be used when properly quoted and cited. Teachers will provide the guidelines of acceptable citation. When in doubt, the student has the responsibility to ask how an author should be used in an assignment. Whenever a student has been caught plagiarizing, the following process will be followed.
1. The teacher will keep a copy of the student’s assignment and, whenever possible, a copy of the plagiarized work. The teacher will also write a brief description of the plagiarism on the referral. These materials will be placed in the student’s file.
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2. The teacher will inform the Principal of the plagiarism and turn in the referral. 3. The Principal will inform the student’s parent of the plagiarism. 4. The student will receive an F on the assignment if it is the first offense. 5. For a second offense, the student may fail the entire course, and further disciplinary action may be instituted.
Upper School students found guilty of academic dishonesty or similar serious offenses will not be ranked, and therefore cannot be Salutatorian or Valedictorian.
Policy AP - 7.2 Cheating
Like plagiarism, cheating will not be tolerated by any teacher in any subject. Cheating occurs when a student uses someone else’s work or a prohibited source of information in order to gain an unfair advantage on a test or an assignment and to avoid doing his own work. Cheating comes in many forms. One student copying off another, a student using a “cheat sheet” to answer questions on a test, and a student trying to pass off another student’s work as his own are examples of cheating. Whenever a teacher suspects two students of cheating, he should confront the students individually before speaking to them together. Otherwise, the same process outlined for plagiarism should be followed for instances of cheating. A student who allows others to copy his work will also be held accountable in the same fashion.
The same procedure for plagiarism will be followed for cheating (See Policy AP - 7.1 Plagiarism)
Policy AP-8.0 Reporting
For students to be successful, both they and their parents should be informed of their standing in class. In addition to the regular grading of assignments the following means will be employed to inform parents of their student’s academic progress.
TCA has partnered with School Classics (https://schoolclassics.org/), an online grading system, to give parents access to their student’s progress throughout the year. Each family will be given a unique password to login and monitor grades, view upcoming projects, and communicate with staff. After the 4th week of school, teachers will begin communicating with students who have a D or below in any subject. If a student is determined to be significantly below grade level, a meeting will be scheduled with a parent, the teacher, and other faculty as deemed appropriate.
Report cards and additional reports: End of the year report cards will be mailed or sent home. Once a semester, parent-teacher conferences will occur to discuss the student’s academic progress.
All parents should monitor their student’s progress on School Classics and can also contact the school or teacher for additional information or a conference.
Report Cards: Student report cards are completed at the end of each quarter. Report cards will be sent home or mailed within two weeks of the completion of each quarter. Final Report Cards will be mailed approximately one week after school is out in June.
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Policy AP-9.0 Promotion
Our primary goal at the elementary levels is solid literacy. A child cannot go on to more complex studies if he or she does not have adequate reading skills.
A student may pass to the next grade if he reads just above grade level. For example, first graders must read at a minimum of a 2.0 instructional level to pass to second grade; second graders must read at a minimum of a 3.0 instructional level to pass to third grade; third graders must read at a minimum of a 4.0 instructional level to pass to fourth grade. (2.0 means 2nd year 0 months)
To avoid loss of reading skills over the summer, a vacation reading program will be instituted. This will consist in reading specified works and may include completing written assignments.
In addition to literacy, K-6 students must have attained competence in all the core subjects (English, including reading, spelling, grammar, composition; history; math; science) over the course of the year and attained at least a C average. Competence is attained by not only knowing the material but by completing assigned work. Completion of work demonstrates not only the ability of the student in the various subjects but also the mastery of study skills necessary for academic and personal achievement. Students whose grades or skills fall below the requirements of their grade level will be retained. “Borderline” cases will be decided by the teacher and the Principal.
In addition, students in grades K-2 must achieve mastery of the phonograms at the following minimum levels: Kindergarten: 50% of phonograms taught and mastered at the kindergarten level First grade: 80% of phonograms taught and mastered at the first grade level Second grade: 100% of phonograms taught and mastered at the second grade level
Age is the second criterion for placement in a grade level at The Classical Academy. A student must fall within state guidelines to enter a grade.
The upper age limit for 9th – 12th graders will be determined by TCA’s administration in accordance with Florida law.
Upper School Students (grades 7-12) It is our goal for parents, teachers, and students to work together during the year to ensure that students are developing responsible work habits and attaining a sufficient level of understanding in their courses. A student must attain a 1.7 GPA in core courses (English, history, math, science) to pass to the next grade level. Students who make a “C” in a single class may re-take that class with the approval of the Principal. A “D” in a single class may be a passing grade and may be awarded credit at the discretion of the teacher and principal. The student may be required to retake that class based on the recommendation of the teacher and Principal. Failing a core course will require the student to re- take the class. A student who fails an elective course may retake that course with the approval of the Principal.
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Policy AP 9.1 Grade Level Placement of Newly Enrolled Students
The grade level placement policy is designed to promote educational excellence and fairness by placing each individual student at the most appropriate level for instruction. If students new to the school are found to be reading more than 1 grade level behind their existing peer group, they may be required to enroll in the grade level deemed appropriate by the teacher and principal. If the parent chooses that the student is placed at the grade level in which the student originally enrolled against the advice of the teacher and principal, a signed document of this choice will become part of the student’s permanent file.
Policy AP – 9.2 Admissions During the Current School Year
Full-time Students Space permitting: Students will be admitted through the end of the 2nd quarter when transferring from another local school. Upper School students will be admitted on a case by case basis, to be determined by the Principal and Admissions Committee, after the fall enrollment period when transferring from another local school. K-12 students transferring from non-local schools will be admitted through the end of the 2nd quarter. Students must be enrolled in a minimum of 5 courses to be considered full time. The cost for each course is $1,250 for the year.
Part-time Students (Home-School Students) Part-time students must come to the school at a specified time and leave the school upon completion of their last course for the day. These students may not come and go due to the closed campus. Part-time students are not eligible for the honor roll, all-school awards, or school scholarships.
Space permitting: Upper School students may enroll in any 2 available courses The cost for each course is $1,250 for the year
Kindergarten and First Grade Students Enrollment for Kindergarten and first grade students is dependent upon the age criteria for placement as determined by Florida law. The student must be 5 by September 1st to start Kindergarten and 6 by September 1st to start first grade.
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Policy AP - 9.3 Graduation Requirements
Required to Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12 Graduate
Senior Thesis in 12th English 1 1 1 1 4 Grade
To be taken freshman Composition .5 .5 year Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, Math 1 1 1 1 4 Statistics
Biology, Chemistry or Science 1 1 1 3 Physics Western Civilization I and II, American History, Modern European History 1 1 1 1.5 4.5 History
Preferably taken junior Government .5 .5 year
Preferably taken senior Economics .5 .5 year
May be taken sophomore Rhetoric .5 .5 or junior year Moral Philosophy .5 .5 Taken during junior year
May be taken at any Latin 1 1 grade level
May be taken at any Fine Arts 1 1 grade level Physical May be taken at any Education 1 1 grade level Other 2 or more may be taken Electives 2 1 2 5 in any grade level
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Graduation Requirements
At the discretion of the Principal a student may be required to complete remedial courses in order to graduate.
The Principal has the right to waive any graduation requirements except those meeting state/district requirements.
Once enrolled full-time at The Classical Academy, a student will not receive credit from any other institution without the prior approval of the Principal.
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Any student who attends The Classical Academy part-time and then becomes a full-time student must have the Principal’s approval to receive a diploma from The Classical Academy.
TCA will work with each of its high school students to ensure that they fulfill all necessary graduation requirements. Graduates of TCA will be prepared to pursue whatever course they choose, whether higher education or career. They will be logical articulate thinkers who understand and espouse the principles of self-government.
The Principal, or a designee, will review the transcripts of students transferring to TCA's high school to determine which requirements have been met and what further courses are needed to graduate.
The academic year at TCA's high school will consist of two semesters. Completion of one semester of a course with a passing grade will earn ½ credits. A full load of courses in an academic year is 7 credits.
All coursework completed with a passing grade in 9th through 12th grades will appear on the student’s high school transcript and will be used to calculate the student’s grade point average. A passing grade in a course signifies completion of the content standards delineated for that course. In order to participate in the graduation ceremony, the required credits must be satisfactorily completed before the date of graduation. The diploma will be that of The Classical Academy of Sarasota.
At TCA the majority of student coursework will be in required subjects that will develop a core knowledge of the liberal arts and sciences.
Policy AP - 9.4 Eligibility (K-12)
Students are ineligible for extracurricular activities if they have one “D” or below in any subject(s). Academic eligibility will be determined through regular checks in School Classics of a student’s progress. Ineligible students will remain ineligible until their grades are raised to a “C” or above. Two disciplinary referrals in one quarter or three in one semester will render a student ineligible for any extracurricular activities for the remainder of that semester. Six disciplinary referrals will render a student ineligible for all extracurricular activities and functions for the remainder of the school year. A principal may deem a student ineligible for the following season or for off-campus field trips based on repeated misconduct.
Policy AP - 9.5 Participation in Extra-Curricular Activities by Part-time Students
Part-time students may participate in TCA extra-curricular activities. Part-time students may not participate if a full-time student of TCA will be “cut” from the activity due to limited space.
Space Permitting: Part-time students: must follow the TCA eligibility policy must submit grades to the coach or sponsor of an activity to ensure eligibility must pay fees associated with the activity prior to participation
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Policy AP - 9.6 Off-site Extra-curricular Activities
Any and all TCA off-site extra-curricular activities must be “registered” with the Principal. All adults present at these activities must be registered TCA volunteers.
A list of all sanctioned TCA off-site extra-curricular activities will be maintained and updated by the Principal and copies will be made available for TCA parents.
Policy AP - 10.0 Schedule Changes
There will be no schedule changes during the semester unless it is deemed in the best interest of the student by the school. Approval signatures must be obtained from the student’s present teacher, the new teacher, the Principal, and a parent.
Policy AP – 11.0 Tuition Tuition and Fees Grade Enrollment Fee* 2019-20 Tuition* Preschool (3-4, 4-5) $300 $4,400/$5,600 ( 5 days half/full day) Grades K – 6 $300 $5,925 Grades 7 – 8 $300 $6,750 Grades 9 – 12 $300 $7,570 *Tuition and fee for each subsequent year will be determined by the Governing Board by December 31st.
It is the heart of the TCA Governing Board to keep tuition and fees as affordable as possible while still maintaining financial responsibility. Our hope is that no family will avoid enrollment due to our tuition and related costs. TCA founders are working tirelessly to find financial assistance and scholarships for families who desire a classical education and have a true financial need. Please see tuition assistance below.
Tuition Policy for TCA 2019-2020
Application and Re-enrollment for Returning Families: • Re-enrollment opens February 5, 2019 • $300 per student with a $500 cap per family • Returning families must reenroll by February 22, 2019, or be moved to the waitlist • Enrollment fee due at the time of re-enrollment and is non-refundable
Application and Enrollment for New Families: • Enrollment opens March 1, 2019 • Applications will be reviewed in the order received • $300 per student with a $500 cap per family • Administration will review each application upon submittal • The enrollment fee is due at the time of acceptance and is non-refundable
Curriculum Fee for Students (used to buy textbooks, class resources, and literature books for students) • $50 Curriculum fee per student – Preschool - Grade 1 • $125 Curriculum fee per student – Grades 2 - 6
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• $195 Curriculum fee per student – Grades 7 - 8 • $250 Curriculum fee per student – Grades 9 - 12
Annual Security Fee (used to help cover the cost of on campus security) $150 per family
Optional Fees $250 Optional Uniform Fee – Uniforms selected and picked up at the front office The following optional FIELD TRIP fees allow parents to spread out payments for larger trips o $75 Optional Field Trip Fee to grades Kindergarten through 6th grade o $550 Optional Marine Lab Field Trip Fee for 5th, 9th, and 10th grade parents o $1900 Optional Washington DC Field Trip Fee for 7th through 9th grade o $3000 Optional European Field Trip Fee for 11th and 12th grade
Waiting List: • Applications will be accepted without enrollment fee due until spot becomes available • Once a spot is available, TCA will call families in the order applications were received • Families who do not submit the enrollment fee within 48 hours of an opening will forfeit their place on the waiting list, and the next family on the wait list will be contacted
Tuition Payments: • Enrollment/Re-enrollment for FACTS opens March 1, 2019 and must be completed by May 31, 2019 to maintain the student’s spot. • Tuition payments for the school year begin June 1 with the last payment due by May 1. • Enrollment will be forfeited without enrollment in FACTS or full prepayment (see below) • TCA offers several options regarding payment of tuition: o 11-month payment plan (must be set up through FACTS) o Bimonthly and quarterly payment plans available through FACTS o Full year tuition may be paid through FACTS or with a check at the front office
Discounts will be offered as outlined below: 5% discount on tuition for second child enrolled 10% discount on tuition for third child enrolled 15% discount on tuition for fourth and subsequent children enrolled
Payment Requirements: • Once a child is enrolled at The Classical Academy of Sarasota and the academic year has begun, tuition must be paid for the entire year in which the student is in attendance, even if the student is un-enrolled for any reason. See Enrollment Agreement.
Step-up Applicants: • Enrollment fee due at time student is enrolled • If paid by Step up, the Enrollment fee will be credited to the family’s account when the first Step-up payment has been received (first payment typically in September) • Additional tuition amount not covered by Step-up will be made in monthly payments through FACTS. You must enroll through FACTS and the first payment due June 1
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McKay Scholarships: • TCA will be able to accept students who receive McKay Scholarships • TCA will only accept students whose educational needs can be met by the school • Students and parents who are eligible to receive the McKay Scholarship will be required to meet with the Principal to determine acceptance
Tuition Assistance It is recommended that families with financial need apply for the Step-Up for Students scholarship
Step-Up for Students Step up for students is a school choice organization awarding private school scholarships to qualifying households in the state of Florida. Families and students must qualify for the scholarship and apply directly to SUFS. Students must be accepted at The Classical Academy of Sarasota before the scholarship is awarded. Families applying to SUFS for the first time must meet the following qualifications: 1.) The student must be entering Kindergarten (those children must be five years old on or before September 1) through 12th grade. 2.) The family must be at or below the income guidelines outlined in the Step Up for Students website: www.stepupforstudents.org. For further information, please contact TCA or visit www.stepupforstudents.org
Policy AP – 11.1 Student Fees and Supplies
Additional fees may be charged to provide additional educational opportunities for specific courses. Actual fees and the courses, which require such fees, will be communicated in the course description. All students taking band courses or orchestra will be required to purchase music books and may be required to provide their own instruments. Certain elective classes may also require an additional fee and/or supplies.
Other Fees Fees may be charged for field trips, classroom activities, supplies, elective fees, and extracurricular fees for participation in competitions as deemed appropriate by the event sponsor/teacher and school sponsored sports.
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SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT POLICIES - SE
Policy SE - 1.0 Student Leadership Any student leader must demonstrate high moral character and be in good academic standing.
Multiple opportunities for leadership have been created on campus including: Student Government Academic Clubs National Honor Society Student Assistants/Teacher Aides
Policy SE - 1.1 Guidelines for Creating the School Calendar
The BOD and administration will make every attempt to adhere to the following in the adoption of the school calendar: The calculated hours of student instruction will meet or exceed the number required by F.S. Section 1011.61(1)(a)1. Graduation will be on Saturday following the last day of school. The Christmas break will be a minimum of two full work weeks (M-F). School will resume on the Tuesday after New Year’s Day. If at all possible, the majority of the Christmas break will mirror that of the district. Students will not have school for the full week of Thanksgiving. If possible, Spring Break will coincide with that of the school district. The 1st semester will end on the last Friday before Christmas Break. There will be a fall break scheduled in October, following the end of the first quarter.
The calendar can be viewed on the school’s website.
Policy SE – 1.2 School Cancellation Policy
The Classical Academy Administration and BOD will work together in determining when to cancel school. The final determination will be up to the principal. These decisions will concur with Sarasota County School District. If classes are to be cancelled for the full day due to inclement weather or other warrantable reasons, notification will be provided on the website by 6:00am in the morning, and notification will be sent to the parent community via their preferred method(s) of contact (e.g. telephone, e-mail, etc.) shortly thereafter. If school is cancelled part way through the day, parents will be notified as soon as a decision is made with instructions for how pickup should proceed.
Policy SE - 2.0 Attendance
Regular attendance is important to ensure achievement in school. We discourage vacations and trips taken during the school year. We also discourage doctors’ and other appointments when avoidable. When those appointments are unavoidable, students are responsible for any make-up work during their absence. Assignments that are not made up, according to the time restrictions set by the teacher and school, will be reflected in their grades. It is helpful to both student and teacher to make prior arrangements to meet that requirement.
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A student who is absent six or more days in a nine-week grading period may be required to present medical evidence or have the parent visit the school to verify absences.
On the fifth and tenth absence, the student and parent will receive a letter from the school as to the excessive absences.
Florida State Attendance law states, in part, that "Every elementary child who has attained the age of 6 and under the age of 16 years … will attend public school for at least 720 instructional hours during the school year, and every secondary school child will attend public school for at least 900 instructional hours during the school year." TCA’s instructional hours exceed the State’s requirement for minimal instructional hours.
EXCUSED ABSENCE/TARDY
The following will be considered excused absences: Absences for medical reasons Absences for mental or emotional disabilities Pre-arranged absences of an educational nature must be approved by the Principal (e.g., visits to colleges for high school students; scheduled, performance-related activities) Attendance at any school-sponsored activity Bereavement (notify school if absence will extend beyond three days)
The School may require suitable proof of excused absences, including written statements from medical sources.
TO REPORT AN ABSENCE
If your child is absent because of illness or an appointment for which we have not been notified previously, please call to make us aware of the situation before 8:00 a.m. It is critical to student safety that we know where all students are on school days. You may call early and leave a message. Please notify the school every day your child is to be away from school. Office staff will place calls daily to parents for unaccounted absences.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCE
If a student has more than fifteen (15) or more unexcused absences within ninety (90) calendar days, the student may be classified as habitually truant according to Florida School Law. When the parent does not explain sufficiently the reason for unexcused absences, the department of social services will be notified, a parent conference will be required, and credit will be withheld. An unexcused absence is defined as an absence that is not covered by one of the foregoing exceptions. Each unexcused absence will be entered on the student’s record. The parents or guardian of the student receiving an unexcused absence will be notified by the school of the unexcused absence. Homework will not be sent home nor will credit be awarded for any work done during periods of unexcused absence except as defined in “Explanation of Excused/Unexcused Absences.”
Late Arrival /Tardiness Punctuality is paramount to success in school, career and life. TCA fosters a learning and working environment that fully supports this belief.
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A student is tardy when the student arrives after the beginning of the school day or when the student is not in the assigned seat or station when the school day has begun at 8:20 AM. Any student arriving to school after the session has begun must report to the school office. An admittance form shall be issued indicating an excused or unexcused tardy or absence. For the student to receive an excused sign-in, a parent or guardian must do the following: accompany the student to the school office with an acceptable excuse, as stated below failure to do so will result in an unexcused sign-in.
A student’s tardiness shall be excused when the reason given is acceptable to the Principal or designee. Examples of excused tardies include the following: medical or dental appointments (doctor’s statement may be required) automobile accident death or funeral emergency situations acceptable to the Principal or designee required court appearance (subpoena may be required) established religious observance severe weather
Unexcused tardies include the following: heavy traffic overslept returned for forgotten items (for example, books, lunch, money, homework, projects, P.E. clothing, and absentee notes)
On the fifth tardy, parents will receive notification regarding the importance of arriving to school on time. On the sixth tardy, parents and the students may be required to meet with the Principal.
EXTENDED EXCUSED ABSENCES
Due to the individual nature of extended excused absences including, but not limited to, acute or chronic illnesses/injuries, a terminally ill family member, or family death the parent/guardian can expect to be informed by the principal or his designee in the general expectation of the faculty related to the completion of assignments and status for moving to the next grade, if applicable.
If a student is going to be absent for any length of time due to an illness or pre-planned absence, the parent must submit the request in writing to the students’ teachers and the front office at least 3 days in advance. It is the student’s responsibility to complete any missed work.
Upon returning from extended absences the registrar will notify the faculty when the 1st day assignments are due for the student. A copy of the information given to the faculty will be given to the student.
Student Check-out Students may NOT be removed from the school or playground unless parents have signed them out in the office. School-sponsored activities require a teacher or sponsor to be responsible for the students. Therefore, if a parent desires to take her student at the completion of an activity, written notification
31 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook must be given to the teacher or sponsor. Students may only leave the activity or event with their own parent unless prior written authorization is given to the teacher or sponsor.
NOTE: After School Programs There are many after-school activities for TCA students. If students are not participating in a scheduled event or activity, they are not to be in the building or on the campus.
Lower school students who have not been picked up by 3:30 will be sent to after care and parents will be charged the corresponding fee for their student’s attendance. Upper school students who have not been picked up by 4:00 PM will be checked into aftercare and parents will be charged the corresponding fee for their student’s attendance. Students whose parents call notifying the office that they will be later than 3:30 will be sent to aftercare and charged the applicable fees.
THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY’S PHILOSOPHY OF DISCIPLINE
The Classical Academy of Sarasota is committed to optimizing learning for all students. TCA students are expected to be well-behaved at all times, to respect themselves, others, and property. Our philosophy toward discipline is that discipline policies and procedures should provide guidance and direction of acceptable behavior in order to develop a child’s own sense of self-government. In The Schools We Need and Why We Don’t Have Them E.D. Hirsch, Jr. says, “Reduction of truancy and misbehavior is just one advantage that accrues when all students are made ready to learn. More positively, giving young children enabling knowledge is inherently motivational; it liberates their natural eagerness to learn.” The goals of discipline at TCA are:
1. To maintain a highly effective learning environment where students focus on gaining knowledge with as minimal distraction as possible. 2. To train students in virtue. Discipline trains the heart of the child and instills in them a strong sense of right and wrong. 3. To establish boundaries. Students thrive in an environment where rules are clearly defined. They know what is expected, and what is expected of others. 4. To reinforce TCA’s commitment to treating all students with fairness, respect, and equality.
The Classical Academy of Sarasota’s Student Guidelines for Behavior Student Code of Conduct A TCA student is honest in conduct, committed to serious study, respectful of the rights of others and exemplifies a standard of excellence, with the aim of becoming a virtuous scholar and citizen.
Specifically, this means that students will: 1. Be polite and attentive. 2. Attend school consistently, be on time, and take responsibility for making up any work promptly when absent. Each student will bear the responsibility for his own conduct. Each student will respect the school’s atmosphere of learning by attending class and being prepared and punctual. 3. Follow directions when they are given. 4. Follow all reasonable requests made by adults on the premises with a positive attitude, and show respect for self, others and property. Each student is expected to cooperate with and
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respect the faculty and staff, including administrators, teachers, secretaries, custodians, and any other people working in the school. 5. Students are expected to communicate in an acceptable tone of voice using an acceptable choice of words. 6. Follow lunchroom, playground, field-trip, lab, and individual classroom rules. Each student is expected to follow school rules when participating in school-related events. 7. Adhere to the dress code. 8. Not use threats or intimidation against any other person. 9. Respect the health and safety of others, safety rules, and not use tobacco, alcohol, or other illegal substances. 10. Be dismissed by the teacher, not the bell or the clock. 11. Not leave school or the playground without signing out in the main office. 12. Not bring electronic devices (cell phones, music, games, etc.). Such items will be confiscated and returned under policy guidelines. 13. Students will not bring anything to school that could be used to harm another or that is illegal.
TCA is not responsible for loss, theft, or breakage of items brought to school. Fines will be levied on parents for vandalism or theft committed by their students. Fines will also be levied for lost or damaged school property. Students may also be required to be involved in the maintenance or repair of damaged property.
TCA will maintain a safe learning environment at all times. Bullying of any kind, whether on or off campus, will not be tolerated. Students of TCA will be expected to set an example of excellence at all times because they are a representative of the School.
Policy SE - 4.0 Discipline
Teachers
Discipline must happen first in the classroom. A well-ordered and disciplined classroom provides the best learning environment for all students. Teachers will have the authority to implement discipline in their classrooms that is consistent with the TCA discipline goals. Teachers will utilize the Principal and/or the Student Deans to implement discipline whenever appropriate and most especially when disciplinary action by the teacher would take away from maintaining an effective learning environment in the classroom. Disciplinary procedures may also involve the other designated TCA staff besides those mentioned.
Demerit System
TCA will use a demerit system in order to better track behaviors and notify parents of uniform and discipline concerns that take place during the school day. When a demerit is issued parents will be notified through email by the end of the day. Reasons for the issuing of demerits include: Tardiness (Upper School) Disruption of class Horseplay Use of cell phone
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Dress Code Violation
Examples of in class discipline in grades K-2 may include: The use of a “traffic light” system o Each day every student begins on GREEN o Students move their clip to yellow as a warning for inappropriate or disruptive behavior (parents are not notified when this happens) o Students who continue to be disruptive will move their clip to red – this will result in a demerit and parents will be notified through email by the end of the day o Continued disruption will result in a call to the principal
Detention
Students will serve a detention after every 3 demerits. Detentions will be served every Tuesday. Students in grades K-5 will serve detention during lunch. They will sit quietly in a room off of the gym monitored by a teacher. Students in grades 6-12 will be required to show up at school at 7:30 AM and will serve detention by being assigned a task on campus to assist teachers or administration. After 9 demerits students will be required to meet with the Principal or Student Dean. After 18 demerits a Behavior Contract will be created and signed by administration, parents, and the student.
Discipline Guidelines
Any misbehavior of an individual student will not be singled out and used to “teach” the class a lesson.
At no time will a student's disciplinary record be discussed with another student or parent. However, other students or parents may be consulted regarding an incident in attempt to discern truth.
TCA desires to educate all students who enter our school, expecting nothing less than the best from each one. The activity of learning requires students to be attentive and polite. Students are expected to adhere to the Parent and Student Agreement and the classical virtues as they have agreed to. If a student does misbehave, the consequences for the infraction will be immediate, relevant and effectual.
Principal’s Role in Discipline - Meeting with the Principal
The goal of any meeting between a student and the Principal is that of a learning opportunity for the student in order to implement a positive change in behavior. The process will involve a discussion of virtue and a training of the heart. Parents will be notified of the student’s visit to the Principal’s office. The primary goal of the choice of consequences by the Principal is to require the student to take responsibility for the infraction.
The included goals of a parent conference with the Principal are: 1. To exchange accurate information about the student. 2. To determine how the parent-school partnership can best work together to lead the student to reform his behavior.
The Principal will preserve the integrity of the disciplinary process at TCA. By modeling the Classical Virtues and consistently treating students and their families with respect and professionalism, the Principal is an extremely valuable and accessible part of a student’s character development and
34 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook education at TCA. The Classical Academy of Sarasota’s goal is to create a safe, respectful, and responsible environment where learning takes place.
Policy SE - 4.1 Discipline Referrals – Major Demerit
In accordance with this policy The Classical Academy of Sarasota has adopted the following procedure for disruptive behavior that requires a major demerit. The teacher issues the student a major demerit, and the student is required to visit the Principal. Major demerits will be given for the following reasons: Plagiarism Cheating Use of foul language Blatant disrespect Repeated misconduct or misbehavior Fighting Theft
The following actions may be taken according to the number of major demerits or detentions. Major demerits and detentions are cumulative throughout the school year:
1st - Student removed from class, sees Principal, calls home. 2nd - Student removed from class, sees Principal, calls home, does not return to class, calls home. 3rd - Student removed from class, sees Principal, calls home, leaves that day, calls home, and may return with parent attending school with the student for the entire day. Any subsequent major demerits will be dealt with on an individual basis. Discipline will be determined by the principal and academic deans and may include: Student is ineligible for any TCA awards or scholarships for the current and following school year. Suspension, ranging from 1 to 5 days May be expelled from The Classical Academy of Sarasota
Policy SE - 4.2 Suspension
A Principal or designee has the authority to suspend students as appropriate. Suspensions last from one to five days depending on the severity of the infraction. All suspensions will require a parent- principal conference with written record of the meeting placed in the student’s permanent file. A remedial student discipline plan will be created during this conference. The conference will occur before the student is readmitted to class. The Principal may require the parent to attend a full day of class with the student upon return. Parents will be notified in writing within 24 hrs. of suspension of a student (F.S. Section 1006.09 (1)(b)).
Policy SE - 4.3 Expulsion
Student expulsions will be determined by the Principal along with the Board of Directors. The student and parents may be given a hearing to present their case but the ruling of the Board will be final.
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According to Florida statute, a student may be recommended for expulsion when they have committed a serious breach of conduct including, but not limited to willful disobedience open defiance of authority of a member of TCA staff violence against persons or property or any other act which substantially disrupts the orderly conduct of the school. A recommendation of expulsion or assignment to a second chance school may also be made for any student found to have intentionally made false accusations that jeopardize the professional reputation, employment, or professional certification of a teacher or other member of the school staff, according to the district school board code of student conduct. Any recommendation of expulsion shall include a detailed report by the principal or the principal’s designated representative on the alternative measures taken prior to the recommendation of expulsion. FS Section 1006.09(1)(c)
Expulsion from The Classical Academy of Sarasota will also be recommended for the following violations according to the Zero Tolerance Policy (F.S. Section 1006.13): Bringing a firearm or weapon, as defined in chapter 790, to school, to any school function, or onto any school-sponsored transportation or possessing a firearm at school. Making a threat or false report, as defined by ss. 790.162 and 790.163, respectively, involving school or school personnel’s property, school transportation, or a school-sponsored activity.
Policy SE – 5.0 Dress Code
Students not in “code” will be written a uniform referral. Teachers are expected to enforce the dress code. Following the third offense of the dress code, the violator will be required to call home and parents must bring the appropriate uniform to school before the student will be allowed to return to class. Any class or work missed will be unexcused and cannot be made up. See Uniform Policy.
EXCEPTIONS to the dress code: Special event days, which have been pre-scheduled and approved by the Principal. Students participating in Scouting programs who wish to wear the Scouting uniforms on meeting days. Other uniforms for other groups will be allowed at the discretion of the Board of Directors and Principal.
The Board of Directors FULLY SUPPORTS the discretion of the faculty and administration as they enforce the dress code. Please check with the Principal if you have any questions. This code is for the benefit of ALL our students. Parents, please help your older students set a good example and keep your school clothes shopping within our dress code parameters. The school is not responsible for school clothing purchases that do not comply strictly with our code.
Intent of Dress Code
The Board of Directors desire a dress code that is conducive to learning as well as manageable to enforce by the faculty and staff. All members of the faculty and staff are to dress professionally.
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The dress code has two main purposes. First, it is designed to eliminate the distraction from learning. Second it is meant to level the playing field so all students are recognized for who they are, not what they wear.
TCA Dress Code – PreK-12
Basic Standard of Appearance Guidelines for All Students School uniform must be worn at all times Shirts may be ordered from Land’s End or from Children's World (on Bee Ridge). Shirts can be ordered from Land’s End. Shirts must be navy, light blue or white in color and have the TCA logo Shirts must be tucked in at all times A belt must be worn at all times – belt must be one solid color (black, brown, or blue) Shorts must be khaki (tan) or navy in color and be at the knee Pants must be khaki (tan) or navy in color Socks must be white, black or navy Oxfords (of school colors) with ties may be worn by the boys Sweaters (of school colors) may be worn
Required Dress Uniform (for grades K through 12)
The dress uniform is for the many occasions throughout the year where a more formal or professional uniform would be appropriate. Some of the dates when students will be asked to wear their dress uniform include: the first day of school, Grandparents Day, Patriot's Day (9/11), Veteran's Day, semester celebrations, certain fieldtrips, student presentations, and performances throughout the year. Gentleman: Khaki uniform pants, white button down oxford (long or short sleeve) with logo, TCA plaid tie or bowtie, black socks, black dress shoes and black belt Ladies: TCA plaid skirt (at the knees), white button down blouse (long or short sleeve) with TCA logo, TCA plaid cross tie, black dress shoes
Every Day (Daily) Uniform
Pants No denim No cargo pants No holes or tears Pants must fit the waistline and not sag in the crotch Pants may not be excessively tight nor show any descriptive lines of the body. Pants must be khaki (tan) or navy in color They can be ordered from Land’s End or a similar style purchased at a local retailer
Shorts, Skorts, Skirts and Jumpers No denim No cargo shorts No holes or tears Must fit the waistline and not sag in the crotch Color must be khaki (tan) or navy
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They must be knee length They can be ordered from Land’s End or a similar style purchased at a local retailer Jumpers may also be plaid
Dresses Can be purchased at Land’s End or Children's World
Sweatshirts and Jackets All sweatshirts and jackets must have the TCA logo or be ordered from Land’s End or Children’s World
Hair Hair must be clean, neat, and styled traditionally Boys’ hair must be kept above the collar and out of the eyes Only natural colors are allowed No unusual or radical hairstyles No facial hair Ribbons and bows may be worn but must be TCA colors. They must also be small and not distracting.
Jewelry Modest jewelry is allowed No more than one necklace or bracelet may be worn at one time Earrings will be limited to two per ear and must not be larger than a quarter. No stretched piercings (gauge) or holes may be visible. No facial or body piercings allowed
Makeup and Nail Polish Makeup must look natural. Black nail polish and lipstick are not acceptable.
Hats and Sunglasses May only be worn or seen before or after school hours No hats or sunglasses in class Hats include visors and bandannas
Shoes Closed toed shoes are required at all times Tennis shoes are great, please no outrageous colors No boots. No slippers. No beach shoes. No high heels. No Crocs.
Physical Education Whatever shoes are worn, a student must participate in PE. A student may bring tennis shoes for PE, if they wear a different pair of shoes during the day. Students not adhering to dress code will receive a demerit. Students who continually violate the dress code will remain in the office until a parent brings the student the appropriate uniform.
Policy SE - 6.0 Mass Communication Policy
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A Principal or designee must approve all letters and bulletins, including e-mail (excluding class assignments by teachers) from teachers or parents or other interested parties. Each communication must be submitted to the office in an electronic format, print-ready, three days prior to the date it needs to be communicated.
Policy SE – 6.1 Dissemination of Information
Any person responsible for coordinating any special classroom event must give appropriate information to the front office.
Policy SE – 6.2 Parent Communications to Administration, Faculty, and Staff
Parents may use any of the following ways to contact/communicate with Administration, Faculty, and Staff of TCA. Email note given to the front office voice mail face-to-face meeting (this must be scheduled in advance using one of the means above)
Conferences must be arranged at least 24 hours in advance, to give the teacher time to prepare materials. Parents can expect to hear back from teachers with 24 hours.
Policy SE - 6.3 Student Information Release
Certain “directory information,” including the student’s full name, address, and telephone number, will not be released without parental consent except in class directories.
Students’ names, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, dates of attendance, awards received, and other similar information may be released without parental consent unless the parent notifies the school. Student names will not be listed with their pictures on the school website or in TCA advertising publications.
No identifying information regarding a student will be given via any avenue of communication without parent permission, unless required by law.
Policy SE - 7.0 Student Agenda Policy
Organizational skills are so important to lifelong success that we have made them part of our curriculum. To help students manage their assignments, we shall issue them a “day timer,” “agenda,” or “planner.” This book will include an Assignment Log and a Communication Log for parent and teacher comments. The agendas should go home every night and provide parents with a convenient method to monitor their student’s work and study skills. All students must have an agenda. If lost, the replacement cost is $5.00.
Policy SE – 8.0 Parental Involvement and Volunteering Policy
TCA is a private school. When parents have the opportunity to choose the kind of education they prefer for their children, they find the necessary energy, time, and resources to devote themselves to
39 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook this education. TCA anticipates that parents will be directly engaged in tutoring, coaching, preparing resource materials, and providing other necessary and invaluable assistance, including sponsoring, chaperoning, and leading TCA’s sanctioned off-site events.
Volunteers are an integral part of The Classical Academy of Sarasota. Volunteers are not only welcome, but also crucial if we are to have high quality teaching of the entire curriculum each year. Elementary volunteer activities are coordinated by TCA’s teachers. All volunteers must have a signed and current volunteer form on file with the school. All volunteers must also agree to a background check and be screened, through our Raptor program, before volunteering on campus or in a classroom. The teacher’s individual teaching style sets the tone for the classroom. Volunteers who wish to volunteer in the classroom need to learn the teaching style of the teacher they wish to assist. If the teaching style conflicts with a volunteering style, the volunteer will need either to adjust his style or find a more compatible setting within TCA to volunteer. The teacher has primary responsibility for student learning in the classroom. Any grievance or concern a volunteer has with a classroom or a teacher will be handled by the procedures defined in this handbook. Under no circumstance is it ever acceptable for a volunteer to confront a teacher about an issue when students are present. Volunteers who will tutor in a specific subject or skill may be required to receive prior training. Off-site volunteers must be registered to ensure the safety of all TCA students. NOTE: Parents, if your student participates in off-site school related activities, you are responsible to make sure that the event has been sanctioned by the school, ensuring volunteer registration. A list of all TCA sanctioned off- site events and activities is available in the front office. TCA encourages every adult—parents, stepparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and community members—to take a special interest in the lives of TCA's students, to act as mentors and tutors, and to instill in every student a love of learning. Volunteers work in conjunction with the faculty to ensure the most effective education possible for their children. To this end, volunteers are responsible for knowing and understanding TCA's philosophy and are encouraged, but not required, to participate on school committees and provide other volunteer services.
As indicated on The Classical Academy of Sarasota’s volunteer form, volunteers may be removed for conflicts of interest or violation of confidentiality. Volunteering is a privilege. The privilege of volunteering may be removed by the administrator or BOD if either believes it is in the best interest of the school.
Policy SE – 8.1 Volunteer Confidentiality Policy
Volunteers often inadvertently have access to sensitive information. Any information about students, grades, faculty, etc. is to remain confidential. Volunteers may observe situations of a sensitive nature. These are also to remain confidential.
If a volunteer has a concern involving something that is witnessed, observed, or overheard it may only be discussed with the faculty member, Principal, or a member of the BOD. If a volunteer disregards this policy, the privilege of volunteering may be revoked.
Policy SE – 8.2 Chaperone Policy
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The number of chaperones for an event will be established prior to the occurrence of the event. This number will be strictly adhered to.
Fees for the event must also be paid by the chaperone and are due at the same time as the student’s fee for the event. If fees are not submitted by the date due another chaperone will be chosen to fill the vacancy.
Chaperones must attend to assigned duties and must model virtue at all times.
Violators of this policy will not be allowed to chaperone any future events. Chaperones are also bound to the Volunteer Confidentiality Policy.
Policy SE – 8.3 Student Social Activities
All TCA social functions will have a faculty or staff sponsor and adult chaperones, with a minimum of one faculty member present. There will be no approved TCA event outside the preceding guidelines.
Policy SE – 8.4 Fundraising
Fundraising activities must not undermine the mission and philosophy of the school. All fundraising must be coordinated through the Principal or BOD. Students of TCA will not engage in door-to-door sales of any kind. All requests of monetary donations for the parent body must be approved by the BOD.
Policy SE – 8.5 Advertisements of Opportunities
Outside Opportunities Opportunities that arise for students through the school district, parents, employees, etc. may be posted on an information board at the school and on the website after approval by an administrator or BOD. These opportunities will not be part of the weekly communications.
School-Sponsored Opportunities School-sponsored opportunities that arise for students through the school district, parents, employees, etc. may be advertised in the weekly communications.
Policy SE – 8.6 Parent Grievances
This school firmly believes that adults must be models of good character even in the most difficult situations. Should a parent have a grievance concerning a particular class or the administration of the school, that grievance should be resolved using the following chain of command. Issues that arise in a particular classroom should always be addressed to the teacher first, since the teacher always has more direct knowledge of the student than anyone else.
1. The Teacher. Parents should schedule a meeting with the teacher. Under no circumstance is it ever acceptable for a parent to confront a teacher about an issue with students present, including his own. Conferences must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
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2. The Academic Dean. If the grievance cannot be resolved with the teacher, and the matter regards discipline or academics, the teacher and parent will involve the Student Dean. If the Student Dean finds that the teacher has not first been consulted, she will refer the parent back to the teacher.
2. The Principal. If the grievance cannot be resolved with the teacher and Student Dean, a meeting will be scheduled with the Principal. If the Principal finds that the teacher and Student Dean have not first been consulted, he will refer the parent back to the appropriate party.
3. The Board of Directors. If the grievance cannot be resolved after talking with the teacher and the Principal, then a parent must submit his grievance in writing to the Board of Directors. If the BOD finds that the parent has not followed the chain of communication, they will refer the parent back to the appropriate party.
The grievance must be submitted to the BOD in writing: The BOD will review the summary and will make one of the following determinations: 1. The BOD may decide to support the previous decision; 2. The BOD may appoint up to two Board members to address the issue; 3. The BOD may address the issue in an open Board format; 4. The BOD may address the issue in an executive session. At no time is it ever appropriate to speak to an individual board member regarding a concern. Individual board members will not entertain such conversations and have the parent submit their concern in writing.
Grievances regarding policy should first be discussed with the Principal. If a satisfactory answer is not provided, policy questions can then be directed in writing to the BOD. Grievances regarding an administrator should be directed to the individual first, then in writing to the BOD.
General Concerns/Questions/Suggestions
In the unfortunate event that resolution is not achieved through the process outlined above, it is unlikely that The Classical Academy of Sarasota is the best educational option for you and your child.
The Principal and Board of Directors will not entertain anonymous complaints, nor can they hold information in confidence when it is not in the best interest of the school.
Policy SE –9.0 Enrollment Policy
The Classical Academy of Sarasota will not make any distinction on account of the disability, race, creed, color, gender, national origin, religion, or ancestry of any student who seeks admission. TCA is open to all families who desire a rigorous classical liberal arts education. Students with an IEP must submit appropriate documentation for review by administration in order to confirm that TCA is able to accommodate their educational needs. Students who have been dismissed from other schools will not be accepted to TCA.
While TCA does not have enrollment criteria, we recognize that our curriculum is rigorous and students are required to demonstrate hard work and grit in pursuit of their education. We believe that a classical education should be available to every student but we also acknowledge that some students and their parents are not willing to put forth the effort. We highly encourage parents to review
42 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook carefully TCA’s founding documents, Handbook, and curriculum before submitting an application to decide if they value the school’s philosophy and educational offering.
Vacancies exist whenever the number of students enrolled in a class is below that class’s capacity. As vacancies occur, those vacancies will be filled in the order in which applications are received. Preference will be given to the following students: Students of teachers or the BOD Students with siblings already enrolled
Enrollment for Kindergarten and 1st grades students is dependent upon the age criteria for placement as determined by Florida law.
Enrollment for 7th – 12th grade students requires a copy of the enrollee’s past two semester report cards. The student’s GPA calculated according to TCA’s standards must be at least 1.7 in the core subjects (English, math, science, history) for a student to have passed the previous grade. Additionally the student will be required to write an essay answering the question, “What do you see as your greatest strength?” If upon receipt of the official records, the initial information is found to be in error; the student will be moved back to the appropriate grade.
Completed paperwork must be received by the front office staff or a designated TCA employee by the date agreed upon or student may lose placement in the school. Any dishonest representation of grades or transcripts may also result in student losing placement. Completed application and registration forms must be received prior to attendance. All new students in grades 7-12 must also submit either a final report card or a complete transcript prior to attendance.
Upon request of records, accompanied by an enrollment form signed by the parent of record, by another school for a current TCA student, TCA will vacate the enrolled students’ seat. This seat will be filled through the process outlined above. If a record request is received without a signed enrollment form, the parent of record will be contacted by the registrar to determine the origin/intent for the request.
Policy SE – 9.1 Enrollment of Expelled Students
Students expelled for any reason will not be admitted to TCA.
Policy SE – 10.0 Traffic Patterns
Parents will enter the campus and proceed to the left. Drop off will take place in front of the courtyard. Parents who wish to walk their students to class or to volunteer, please park in the parking lot to the right (East). Teachers and staff will park in the west parking lot.
Policy SE – 11.0 Security Checks
The School may exercise its right to inspect all backpacks, packages, parcels, and closed containers entering and leaving the premises. Students possess the right of privacy as well as freedom from unreasonable search and seizure as guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This individual right, however, is balanced by the school’s responsibility to protect the health, safety, and welfare of all its students, and to ensure compliance with school rules. School employees (usually
43 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook administrators) may conduct searches of property or persons when they have reason to suspect that the health, safety, or welfare of students or staff may be endangered.
Policy SE – 12.0 School-wide Events Must be approved by Administration Must have Sponsor who will coordinate event in its entirety
Policy SE - 13.0 Philosophy of Sports
All students are given the opportunity to be on the appropriate teams if they are eligible. See Policy AP - 9.4 Eligibility (K-12).
Due to the size and interest in our sports program, students will have to try out for the team. Our aim in all areas in to strive for excellence and sports are no exception. We know that winning is not everything but our teams will play to win. Therefore, all players will have equal practice time but will not have equal playing time in games. The Principal or Athletic Director will be in charge of finding and appointing coaches. The coach should have experience and background in the sport and support the school.
It may be in the best interest of the athletes to not offer a sport if a qualified coach is not available.
All sports programs must be self-funding. TCA will not allocate funds to the sports programs.
TCA students are allowed to participate on district sports teams if the sport is not offered at TCA.
Please check with the Principal if you have questions regarding participating on district sports teams.
Policy SE – 14.0 Health Concerns
For students with any health concerns or needs it is the responsibility of the parent to notify administration in writing. Records will be requested from other schools for transferring students, but this does not absolve parents from the responsibility to notify administration of health concerns.
Policy SE – 14.1 – Medications
No students will be allowed to self-medicate, unless given written permission by a doctor or other health care professional. All medication is to be kept locked up in the front office at all times. No medication will be given to students, including over the counter medicines like Tylenol or ibuprofen, without written permission by a doctor or other health care professional.
Policy SE – 14.2 – Lice and Nits
If lice or nits are found to be present in a student’s hair, the student will be removed from class and sent home immediately. The student will not be allowed to return to school until they are found to be free of ALL lice and nits. Once they have been cleared, only then will they be allowed to return to school.
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All students in class with the infected student will be checked immediately for lice, along with any siblings of the infected student. TCA will notify all the families in the class of the infected student, asking them to check their children at home. The anonymity of the infected student will be protected at all times and teachers and administration will ensure that students understand that this could happen to anyone.
Policy – 14.3 – Peanut Allergies
If a student has a severe peanut allergy, the student’s classroom will be designated as a peanut free classroom. This designation means that parents will be asked to send students in with a peanut free snack. In the lunchroom, a peanut free table will be designated to accommodate students with peanut allergies.
MISCELLANEOUS POLICIES – M
Policy M - 1.0 Expense Reimbursement
Any expense incurred must have a Principal's or designee's written authorization (requisition/purchase order, etc.). To be reimbursed for all authorized expenses, you must submit an expense report/voucher accompanied by original receipts.
If TCA will be collecting revenue related to the expenses incurred, then the revenue must be received prior to reimbursement. Reimbursements (once completed) may take up to 10 business days to be issued.
Policy M - 1.1 Donation Policy
The Classical Academy of Sarasota is a Not-for-Profit Corporation and all donations are tax deductible in accordance with IRS policy. Please consult the advice of an appropriate tax professional. Directed donations may be used in accordance with the donor's request once the BOD ensures they fit within the vision, mission, philosophy, and priorities of the school. Undirected donations will be directed by the BOD to areas most benefitting the school, in accordance with TCA philosophies, priorities, and programs. A donation receipt will be issued after a donation.
Policy M – 2.0 Violation of Established Policies
Established policies exist in order to communicate clearly the philosophy and mission of The Classical Academy of Sarasota. Policies are established for the best interest of the school. Violation of established policies creates situations that compromise the educational, philosophical, and/or fundamental mission of the school. Prevention of policy violations is in the best interest of the school. Anyone who experiences a violation of a policy is encouraged to notify the school Administration and/or Board of Directors.
Anyone found in violation of an established policy will receive a written notice immediately. The written notice will state the policy and clearly explain its violation.
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A copy of the notification will be submitted to the Board of Directors. The BOD will mediate any discrepancy regarding the violation.
Policy M - 3.0 Policy Making
The BOD shall be solely responsible for adopting, repealing, or amending policies for The Classical Academy of Sarasota. Action by the BOD shall be accomplished as set forth in the bylaws.
Proposals for adopting, repealing, or amending policies for TCA may be made in writing to the BOD. The proposal shall be submitted through an administrator by using the contact information for the BOD on the TCA website.
Policies shall be read three times before adoption. A vote to move a policy forward to the next reading is interpreted as a vote in favor of the policy, amendment, change, etc. A director may at any time change his mind; however an explanation should be given to justify the decision in order that all directors can consider the information when making a decision. This affords all members of TCA an opportunity to participate in the decision making process and to understand the position of the directors related to the decision. Comments on policies may be written or may come from attendees during the BOD meeting following the guidelines set forth in the BOD meeting Procedure Policy.
BUSINESS POLICIES – B
Policy B - 1.0 Cash Receipt
The adult sponsor of any activity in which funds will be received must designate at a minimum one party to be responsible for the cash. The following must be done by the end of each day (4:00 pm) even if the collection is ongoing. If the activity takes place in the evening, the following should be completed that same evening. The cash should be counted once and then verified by a second party (one counter must be the adult sponsor) then turned in to and verified by the office. If the office is closed the cash is to be placed in the designated, locked location. An email notification should be sent to the front office reporting the amount deposited and source of the revenue. The cash must be accompanied by the TCA cash receipt form. Specific activities may be exempted from the policy by the treasurer of the BOD or designee. All payments are collected at the School's front office. The payment is recorded denoting the source, amount and category. The assigned secretary/registrar ensures that each check is endorsed and cash payments totaled and forwarded with a report to the School's Bookkeeper. The School’s Bookkeeper prepares the deposit slip and makes the deposit in the bank.
Upon receipt of Florida Tax Credit Scholarship checks, staff in the School’s front office ensures each parent (payee named on the check) restrictively endorses the check to the School for deposit into the account of the School. The check is endorsed by the School using a stamp with the following information: Pay to the Order of GATEWAY BANK OF SW FLORIDA Sarasota, FL 34236-9129 - 063116517- FOR DEPOSIT ONLY The Classical Academy Acct. No. 1010009932 The check is then sent to the School’s Bookkeeper and recorded as being received in the School’s accounting system. The School’s Bookkeeper prepares the deposit slip. Copies of the back and front of the endorsed
46 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook checks along with related deposit slip are filed for reference. A computer spreadsheet is prepared and reconciled to the bank deposits.
A copy of the deposit slip and bank validation are kept on file by the Bookkeeper for maintaining the accounting records on the computer. The bookkeeper posts the deposit to the accounting software records. For each source, there is a separate account in the General Ledger. The Bookkeeper provides a monthly cash receipts and cash disbursement to the Board of Directors of the School. These reports are the management tools for the Board to make decisions.
Policy B – 2.0 Cash Disbursement
The School has adopted policies and procedures which requires an annual budget that specifies the approved limits for operating expenditures. This budget is approved prior to the beginning of each fiscal year. Approximately one month into the new fiscal year, the board considers a revised budget which is based on more accurate enrollment numbers for that fiscal year. If necessary, the board adopts the revised budget at that time. Any future amendments to the operating budget require school board approval. At the end of each quarter, administration is required to explain to the board any unfavorable budget variances that exceed $2,500 per line item for the quarter. At the end of each quarter, the board reviews the results of operations in comparison to the budget in order to ensure that operating expenditures are within board authorized limits. It is not permissible for non-school expenses to be disbursed from the school’s bank account.
All checks over $1000 require two signatures.
The School’s Bookkeeper presents the unpaid invoice to the treasurer of the board for approval of payment. A check is prepared by the bookkeeper and is signed by the Principal and one board member (when necessary as specified above). These two persons have the responsibility of determining that the School's policies have been followed to the best of their knowledge. Their signature implies the disbursement is appropriate. This procedure is designed to provide a way to ensure that disbursements are for appropriate school-related expenses.
After the checks are properly signed, the secretary is given the checks to mail out or hand deliver. Records of all checks are kept on file by the Bookkeeper. The Bookkeeper provides a monthly cash receipts and cash disbursement to the Board of Directors of the School. These reports are the management tools for the Board to make decisions. These reports also provide management with a mechanism for ensuring that the School’s policies regarding disbursement are being followed. Policy 3.0 – Check Cashing Policy
In order to comply with section 1002.395 (12)(b) F.S., the school has adopted the following policy. Upon receipt of a Step Up For Students scholarship check, the parent/s to whom the scholarship check is made payable must restrictively endorse the check to The Classical Academy for deposit into the account of The Classical Academy. The parent may not designate any entity or individual associated with The Classical Academy as the parent's attorney in fact to endorse a scholarship check.
Each Step Up For Students scholarship check must be endorsed by the payee named on the check. If more than one parent or guardian is named as the payee on the scholarship check, at least one parent or guardian must endorse the check.
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If the parent or guardian named as the payee on the scholarship check is not available to sign a scholarship check and has authorized another individual (not related to The Classical Academy in any way) as their Power of Attorney, after submitting copies of power of Attorney to Step Up For Students, that individual may sign the scholarship check. All scholarship checks must be endorsed by the named payee/s or their designee before being deposited into the account of The Classical Academy. The parent's endorsement should be above or below the school's stamped endorsement.
Each Step Up For Students scholarship check received for one of our students must be endorsed by The Classical Academy. The scholarship check must be endorsed by the school using a stamp with the following information: GATEWAY BANK OF SW FLORIDA Sarasota, FL 34236-9129 -063116517- FOR DEPOSIT ONLY The Classical Academy Acct. No. 1010009932
Once scholarship checks are received, the school will ensure the security of the scholarship checks. The parent will be notified that a scholarship check, requiring their signature, is at the school, and the school will make every effort to provide a time and place at the school for the parent to sign the scholarship check. Once checks are endorsed a copy of both the front and back of the check will be made and retained in the students’ file.
Policy B - 4.0 NSF Checks
When a check is returned for NSF (non-sufficient funds) the Principal will notify the issuer in writing. No other checks will be accepted from the issuer until the NSF check is made good. If a subsequent check is written prior to the correction of the NSF check the principal or designee will notify the issuer in writing of the need for cash, cashier’s check, money order, or credit card.
In the event of a second NSF check, the issuer will not be permitted to utilize checks as a method of payment to TCA. The Principal will notify the issuer in writing. All future transactions must be made in cash, by cashier’s check, money order, or credit card.
Any NSF banking fees will be added to the amount owed.
Policy B – 5.0 Capital Expenditure Policy
For the purpose of this policy a Capital Expenditure is defined as – The money spent for acquiring or upgrading assets. Relative to TCA’s business, capital expenditures are generally made to purchase furniture or fixtures, computers, renovations, buildings, land, leasehold improvements, or automobiles. The Classical Academy of Sarasota is responsible for establishing adequate controls over capital expenditures to ensure the timely procurement of these assets and accurate and timely recognition of these assets in the accounting records. Our policy requires that the requisition and purchase of all capital expenditures must follow the procedure as stated below.
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The objectives of this procedure are to Specify and set up capital expenditure vendors. Allow for management review and approval for investments made in capital equipment. Recognize qualifying purchases as fixed assets in the company’s accounting systems. Track and review capital projects against predefined budgets or plans. Pay for capital expenditure items on a timely basis and consistent with approved order details. Leverage the company’s purchasing power through centrally negotiated purchase contracts with key capital vendors. The company does not consider purchases below $500 to be capital expenditures. Assets purchased below the $500 limit are expensed as they are received.
When considering capital expenditures TCA will: Ensure that vendors do no fall under the Conflict of Interest Policy previously established Receive a minimum of 2 (two) bids from different vendors before engaging in any expenditure Requests made by teachers for capital expenditures of any amount must be approved by the administration Capital expenditures as defined above over $500 must be approved by the Board of Directors, either in the annual budget or when necessary as an individual agenda item in a board meeting.
Policy B – 6.0 Payroll Processing
The school board approves the hiring of the Principal and determines their rate of compensation each year. In addition, pay rate changes for other employees require board approval. Each employee has an annual employment agreement which defines their work hours, rate of pay, and rate at which their pay is docked if they work fewer hours than they are required. Teachers are paid a salary for the school year which consists of approximately 185 working days. The salary is paid out over a 12 month period. Hourly employees must log their hours on the approved time sheets and turn them in to the front office at the end of each week.
Payroll is processed twice each month, on the 15th and the end of the month. The School employs a payroll company to process payroll. The salaries, as approved by the board, are entered at the beginning of the fiscal year and the payroll company processes the paychecks accordingly. Hours for hourly employees are verified and entered by administration and then processed by the payroll company.
Other Vital Information Health Services
Limited health services are available at school. Please do not bring sick children to school. TCA’s health office is staffed by the Registrar. Please note that it is the parent’s responsibility to notify the office if a child has been injured at home and may need special considerations at school. Keep school records up to date, especially phone numbers and emergency contacts! Immunization records must be current for students to remain in school.
The Classical Academy of Sarasota’s policy requires that no medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter medication (including aspirin, cough drops, vitamins, etc.), will be given to a
49 The Classical Academy of Sarasota Handbook student by any school personnel, including the nurse, except on written orders of the parents and physician. Students may not self-medicate at the school. When medication is to be given at school a physician or dentist’s instructions are required by the school prior to the administration of the medication. All medications must be in a pharmacy-labeled container including the student’s name, name of the drug, dosage, name of the physician, and current date. Medical Request Forms are available at TCA’s front office.
Parents will be informed when a student reports to the office with a fever or has been injured seriously. If a parent cannot be reached, school personnel will determine what action needs to be taken. Any child with a fever will not be allowed to remain in the classroom and must be picked up by a parent or designee. If a head injury is sustained, or any injury requiring medical attention, the parent will be asked to come to school and determine what action should be taken. In case of more serious injuries, or in case the parent cannot be contacted, the school will immediately call 911 for emergency assistance.
In compliance with state law, all children in Florida schools must have a complete, up-to-date immunization record on file in the TCA office. Parents opposed to immunizations for personal, religious, or medical reasons must file an exemption form with the school office. This record includes proper shots for measles, rubella, diptheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) and polio. Students may not continue enrollment without up-to-date immunization records.
Health and Safety
TCA considers safety of vital importance. An Emergency Management Plan has been developed and teachers have undergone training in the safety and procedures.
Parental Responsibility
In order to ensure safe management of your child, please notify the office of any and all changes in our child’s address, phone number, emergency numbers, and parent work numbers as soon as possible. It is vital that the office keep this information up to date in case of personal or school emergencies. It is the parent’s responsibility to keep this information updated. You must give your information to the office on the Emergency Contact Form.
Communications Communication Folders/Student Agenda
Communication between the school and students and their parents is crucial for the overall success of the school. Whether communication occurs through papers sent home or notes in the student’s agenda, parents are expected to read them carefully.
Please be aware that any “School-to-Home Communications” are critical to the success of TCA and to the parents of TCA students. Volunteers, teachers, and parents who help distribute these communications are not to add foreign matter to the communications, nor permit others to do so, without prior written approval by the Principal or the TCA Board of Directors. In addition, classroom teachers have the authority to approve items going home with students after receiving approval by the Principal.
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Phone Calls – Messages
Parents, please try to make arrangements with your students for activities, rides, etc. prior to dropping them off at school. We understand that sometimes changes to schedules occur and you need to communicate with your student during the day.
If these situations arise, messages will be taken to the classroom teacher.
Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher conferences are scheduled in the Fall and Spring semesters. Arrangements for additional conferences may be made with your child’s teacher before or after school hours. Conferences must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
Lost and Found Items
Lost clothing, notebooks, lunch boxes, and other items will be placed in the lost-and-found box located in the front office and kept for two weeks. Unclaimed lost-and-found items will be given to a local charity or thrown away. Books will be returned to the classrooms. Valuable items will be kept in the front office for safekeeping, and identification will be required for their return.
Notification of Rights Family Educational Rights Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents and students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives the request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal or appropriate school official a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible student may ask the School to amend records that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the School principal or appropriate official, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the
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School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the School has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the School discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-4605
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