Public Safety Academy of San Bernardino Parent/Student Handbook

2020-2021

CADET CREED

I am a Public Safety Academy cadet. I strive to achieve academic excellence. I exemplify high moral character. I work diligently to prepare for the future. I know my success in school and in life is dependent on my own effort.

Updated May 26, 2020 eh 1

School Mission Statement

The mission of the Public Safety Academy is to develop a cadet towards a career in public safety, through a process of rigorous academics, realistic hands-on training, character development, physical fitness, and self-discipline.

Public Safety Academy will strive to educate, empower, enhance and nurture the whole cadet, academically, ethically, and morally, through the collaborative efforts of teachers, parents, and the community. It is PSASB’s goal to produce independent thinkers who will contribute positively to the betterment of our society.

Introduction

This handbook is to provide the cadet and parents with information about the academy and its processes. The Public Safety Academy introduces cadets to the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in Public Safety. Our emphasis is on a guided regimen of self-discipline and skill development, while stressing teamwork and personal initiative, which are essential in public safety careers. Historically, public safety agencies have operated in a span-of-control/paramilitary environment. Academy cadets are expected to conduct themselves in a manner conforming to this tradition.

PSASB’s education and training focus on the following:

● Academic Excellence ● Personal Initiative and Team Discipline ● Professional Behavior ● Personal and Team Safety ● Manipulative Skill Performance ● Physical Fitness

Important Information

Office Hours: 7:00a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

School Phone Number: 909-382-2211

For general information about the Public Safety Academy of San Bernardino visit our homepage at: psasb.us

2 Admittance Eligibility Criteria

Public Safety Academy is a free, public charter school. PSASB does not discriminate based on disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic that is contained in the definition of hate crimes set forth in Section 422.55 of the California Penal Code.

Once enrolled, students must strictly adhere to PSASB rules and regulations set forth in this handbook. Parents are responsible to monitor their child’s academics and behavior.

Parent/Student Contract

1. I understand that PSASB is a public charter school and that I am making the deliberate choice to enroll my child. My student is not required to enroll at PSASB.

2. I agree to communicate with my child everyday about their school work, look over their assignments, and assist them when necessary with homework or projects. I will regularly check my child’s grades online (via POWERSCHOOL), and maintain contact with the teachers, which will enable me to stay current with my child’s progress in their classes. I will set aside time to read with my younger child and/or have my older child read every day.

3. I understand that PSASB is obligated by law to administer assessments and tests during the school year. I will support the school’s efforts to achieve maximum test participation. I will also work with the school to encourage and help my child to do their best work at all times.

4. I will notify the school promptly about illness or other excused absences and will work with my child's teachers to obtain any missed assignments. I understand that excessive absences may result in the student being unenrolled from PSA and transferred back to their home school in the district of residence.

5. I will treat the staff of PSASB with the same courtesy and respect that I desire for myself.

6. I understand that PSASB has a uniform policy. I agree that my child will follow the uniform policy and that any infraction may result in my child being sent home to obtain appropriate clothing. As a school of choice and a public charter school, PSASB students may not ​ "waive" the uniform dress code.

7. I understand that PSASB has a clear set of behavior codes that each child and family must follow. I agree to read the Parent/Student Handbook with my child and will assure that he/she understands the rules. I will return the signature page, indicating that I have read the handbook with my child. I understand that PSASB requires students to be people of character and that they are to adhere to the code of conduct and demonstrate the traits in the school motto: Virtue, Fidelity, and Integrity. ​ ​ 3

8. I understand that, as the parent/guardian, I have the primary role in ensuring that my child is prepared and ready to learn every day. Moreover, I understand it is my responsibility to help prepare my child, ensuring that he/she has all required materials and completed assignments, as well as appropriate rest and nourishment to perform at his/her best. If at any time my child is not ready to learn, I understand that the school staff will call upon me to aide in resolving these concerns.

9. I understand that my child must participate daily in physical training. If my child is unable ​ ​ to participate, a doctor's note must be provided prior to being excused. When excused, my child will complete a written assignment to get credit for the class.

10. I agree to replace lost, stolen or damaged books that have been assigned to my child at a predetermined amount.

11. I am aware that PSASB operates similarly to police and fire academies. Structure and discipline are very important. My child may be asked to participate in exercises that can include push-ups, sit-ups, leg raisers, etc. that are common in public safety training programs. I am also aware that my child will be asked to participate in daily “detail,” which includes cleanup and maintenance of the academy facilities and grounds.

Academics

Public Safety Academy of San Bernardino emphasizes academic excellence so cadets are prepared for college admission and/or for careers in public safety professions. Cadets are strongly encouraged to maintain a GPA of 2.0 with no F’s.

Student Success Team

Cadets failing to meet the academic expectations may be provided Student Success Team services (SSTS). As a part of the SSTS, cadets are encouraged to access additional tutoring and other available services from the academy staff, in order to improve grades. Parents may also be asked to attend conferences to provide support for their cadet.

● English learners and students with special needs will be given all special accommodations and interventions necessary per State/Federal laws regarding EL and Special Education. ● All documents and correspondences will be made available in Spanish as needed.

Supplies

Cadets are expected to come to school prepared to learn. As with most jobs, a few key tools are required for success. Supply lists will be given out the first week of school and are specific to each class. Teachers expect cadets to report to class each day with all appropriate materials. If cadets are unable to bring supplies, please contact Administration and arrangements will be made.

A school-issued I.D. card to access lunch account and check out library materials will be given to

4 each cadet. Cadets are to keep this I.D. card on their person at all times. Replacement cards can be ordered in the office for $5.00 if the original I.D. is lost or damaged.

Homework

The term “homework” incorporates a wider definition than most cadets realize. It includes:

1. Completion of work not finished in class. 2. Completion of short-term and long-term assignments. 3. Review of work done each day in class. 4. Studying for exams and tests (daily review makes this easier). 5. Reading or studying ahead!

The traditional rule calls for cadets to do about 10 minutes of homework for each grade level, 5 nights per week. Thus, a sixth grader should expect 60 minutes of daily homework, a seventh grader should expect 70 minutes, and an eighth grader an hour and 20 minutes. Of course, this is just an average—there may be days that require considerably more!

Missed Assignments and Makeup Work

If a cadet has an excused absence, he/she is encouraged to contact a fellow classmate or classroom teacher for required assignments. It is the student’s responsibility to request makeup assignments and to turn them in on time. It is PSA’s policy that the student has the number of days equivalent to the absence to make up the work. For example, if a cadet has an excused absence for three days, they have three days to make up the missed work. If the cadet is not able to complete the work within the time allowed, the cadet’s parent should contact the teacher to inquire if an extension is possible. If a cadet will miss a quarter or semester final exam, this must be pre-arranged with administration in writing, or the cadet may NOT make up the final exam and he/she will receive a zero, which may result in having to retake the course.

Attendance and Absences

Parents/guardians of all 7-12 grade students: Please be aware that school authorities are required to excuse any student from school to obtain confidential medical services without the consent of the student’s parent/guardian.

Students shall not be absent from school without their parents’/guardians’ knowledge or consent, except in cases of medical emergency or confidential medical appointment. State law dictates our school and district’s attendance policies. Parents need to notify the school when their child is absent. This allows the school to identify truant cadets, and allow cadets to make up work for excused absences. Excessive absences may result in the student being unenrolled from PSA and transferred back to their home school in the district of residence. Under state law, excused absences include the following:

1. Illness or injury of the cadet. 2. Cadet attendance at a medical, dental, optometry, or chiropractic appointment, providing a note from the medical office is submitted. 3. Cadet attendance at a funeral service of an immediate family member.

5 4. A quarantine imposed by a city or county health official. 5. Time off to acquire required immunizations (up to five days). 6. Exclusion from school due to head lice, lack of immunizations, or physical examination. 7. Appearance in court. 8. Observance of a religious holiday or ceremony. 9. Participation in a conference or interview.

Parents are legally responsible for their child’s attendance at school, and have 72 hours to excuse a cadet’s absence. State law mandates that cadets who have 3 or more unexcused absences (or who are tardy more than 30 minutes without a valid excuse 3 or more times) shall be classified as truant, and subject to school disciplinary actions and/or appearance before the School Attendance Review Board. The School Attendance Review Board (SARB) may decide to unenroll a student with excessive absences. Upon unenrollment, the student must transfer back to their home school in the district of residence.

Student Pickup Information

As a reminder and acknowledgement to students, parents, guardians, or other responsible parties, school hours of operation are as follows:

Regular Schedule: 7:00am to 3:00pm Minimum Day Schedule: 7:00am to 1:00pm

Supervision

Staff formally supervises the campus before and after each school day. It is important that, without prior approval, cadets do not arrive at school excessively early or stay late.

Deliveries to School

The delivery of flowers, gifts, balloons, etc. is considered a disruption of classroom instruction (balloons, in general, are not allowed on campus). Such deliveries are discouraged and will be held in the office until the end of the school day. It is the cadet’s responsibility to come to the office and retrieve his or her items. No food deliveries for cadets will be permitted unless approved in advance by an administrator.

After-School and Evening School Events

Cadets must be present the day of the event in order to participate in any extracurricular activities. Any cadet on “Loss of Privilege” will not be allowed to attend an after school or evening event.

Students Who Drive to School

Students that drive a car to school must provide proof of a valid and current driver license/permit, proof of insurance, and must register their car with the security of Public Safety Academy. A $2.00 fee is associated with registration.

6 Field Trips

During the course of each year Public Safety Academy cadets may attend a number of field trips. Cadets must have a permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian to attend a school-sponsored field trip.*Parents must include emergency pick-up information as well as ​ medical information on the permission slip. Cadets are in school uniform, and therefore, they ​ represent the Public Safety Academy. During field trips all school rules are in effect, and cadets are expected to be on their best behavior. ​ ​

Leaving School Grounds

The Public Safety Academy is a closed campus. Once a cadet arrives at PSASB he/she is to remain on campus until the end of the day. During school hours cadets may leave only with specific parent or guardian written permission, and with special permits issued by the office.

First Aid and Health

Cadets who become injured or ill during class time should notify a staff member immediately, who will in turn provide them with a pass to the office. The PSASB does not have a school nurse. Cadets should not remain in a restroom without letting a PSA staff member know that he/she is there. If the injury or illness is serious, parents will be notified immediately.

Medications

Any cadet who is required, during the regular school day, to take prescribed or over-the-counter medication, medical test, or treatment may be assisted by school personnel. Before a cadet receives assistance with the administration of prescription or over-the- counter medication, medical monitoring or medical test the Public Safety Academy of San Bernardino policy requires: (1) A written statement from a parent or guardian that requests and authorizes the district to assist the cadet with the administration of medication, medical test or treatment; (2) For prescription medication, medical test or treatment, a written statement from a physician that specifies the dosage, name of the prescribing physician, method of administration and the time schedule for the administration of the medication, and (3) for over-the-counter medication, a written statement from the parent or guardian that specifies the dosage, method of administration and time schedule for the administration of the medication.

Prescription medication, medical test, or treatment containers must be labeled by a California pharmacist. The label must indicate the cadet’s name, name of the prescribing physician, time of administration, the circumstance in which the medication is to be administered, dosage, expiration date and the name and telephone number of the pharmacy. Over-the-counter medications shall be provided to school personnel in the original container and packaging.

Cadets who need emergency medication, such as an asthma inhaler, insulin pump or severe allergic reaction injection, while at school, may carry medication and may self-administer such medication or perform medical monitoring or tests under the supervision of school personnel, provided that the following conditions are met:(1)The cadet is physically, mentally and behaviorally capable, in the written opinion of the parent, attending physician and district nurse, to assume these responsibilities, and has been adequately instructed at home to implement the necessary procedures; (2)The medication test or treatment is necessary to maintain the cadet’s

7 health and must be taken or administered during school hours, and (3) the cadet has successfully demonstrated the self-administration of medication, or self-monitoring or testing procedure to the district nurse. The approval for the self-administration of medication, medical test or treatment may be withdrawn at any time, if the cadet demonstrated unsafe practices, procedures or fails to observe general precautions. At the conclusion of the school year a parent, guardian or designated adult should take all remaining medication home. PSA will dispose of all medication not returned to the home.

Substance Abuse/Misuse Contract

During the school year, regardless of quantity, a cadet shall not use or consume, have in their possession, buy, sell, or give away alcohol, marijuana, or any controlled substance (this includes ​ ​ any medications that are not prescribed to you).

Students shall not possess any paraphernalia that could be used for consumption of a controlled substance. This includes vapor pens, e-cigarettes, or any other type of vaporizer, as well as devices for use with dry or liquid substances, electronic or non-electronic.

Penalties for Possession of Paraphernalia, Controlled Substances and/or Substance Abuse/Misuse

Students may be suspended and may be subject to expulsion from Public Safety Academy of San ​ ​ Bernardino if in possession of drug paraphernalia, controlled substances, and/or substance abuse/misuse.

Indebtedness

Cadets with outstanding bills to the school (e.g., failure to return athletic uniforms, library books, textbooks, fundraising money, etc.) may be placed on Loss-of-Privilege status. Transcripts, diplomas, and yearbooks may be held until such debts have been cleared. Note: There is a charge for all returned checks.

Money/Valuables

Cadets are not to carry large sums of money or expensive personal items with them to school. Similarly, the wearing of expensive rings, watches, and other jewelry is not appropriate. While the school will make an effort to recover lost or stolen property, Public Safety Academy is not responsible for the theft of personal belongings. In addition, cadets are not to buy or sell personal items at school.

Technology Use

1. Access to the computers by all students is extremely important, any action that might harm the equipment or software, or impair their effective use will NOT be tolerated. ​ ​

2. Accessing any files, documents, applications, etcetera, other than your own, without permission, will have severe consequences.

3. Follow teacher directions precisely when using any equipment. ​ ​ 8

4. Please ask permission before using disks, CDs, DVDs, USB thumb drives or any other storage devices brought from home, on school equipment.

5. Internet access is only available to those who have signed the Acceptable Use policy. Acceptable use includes but is not limited to:

● No downloading without permission ● No installing of ANY program, add-on, or toolbar ● No personal chat rooms, instant messaging, or any other forms of internet communications that do not relate to classroom instruction. ● Although there are filters (firewalls) that block inappropriate sites, nothing is foolproof. In the event that you encounter a site that is inappropriate for school, report this to your teacher or IT staff immediately. If you intentionally access inappropriate sites or information at school, disciplinary action will be taken. 6. Failure to comply with this agreement could result in you losing your privilege of using technology equipment at school. 7. Copying and pasting data from the Internet, without proper citation, is plagiarism and will result in a “0” on the assignment. All formal papers will be submitted through the turnitin.com website. Submission of papers through this website is mandatory. ​ ​ 8. Cyberbullying will be treated with the same level of seriousness as any other type of bullying. It is a suspendable offense and in some cases, it is an expellable offense.

Electronic Equipment (iPods, Cell Phones, etc.)

Students may be in possession of a cell phone on school grounds. Permitted devices shall:

1. Be turned off during the instructional day unless otherwise directed by a faculty member. 2. Not disrupt the educational program and/or any school activities. 3. Be stored inside of the cadet’s backpack until school is out of session.

If disruption occurs, the PSA staff member shall direct the student to turn off the device and/or confiscate it. If a school employee finds it necessary to confiscate a device, he/she may either return it at the end of the class period or school day, or keep it until the principal or designee has consulted with the student's parent/guardian. A student who violates this policy may be prohibited from possessing a personal electronic device at school. Phone messages that are of an emergency nature may be sent to the cadet through the office.

Note: the office is NOT to be used as a reminder service, but only as an emergency notification service.

School Website

PSASB’s school website is: psasb.us. Please log in to our web site regularly for important ​ ​ announcements, access to teachers’ classroom websites and curriculum plans. The school website also provides a link to PowerSchool, which is where you may regularly check your child’s grades and attendance. 9

Note: Various photos and/or videos of cadets participating in academic tasks or extra-curricular activities may be posted on the school and teacher websites or utilized by staff for professional development purposes.

Academy Life and Fundamental Training Values

The Public Safety Academy has adopted the fundamental training values of public service, respect, integrity, discipline and equality. The P.R.I.D.E. model is integrated into all formal and informal training at the Academy. The model is applied as follows:

● PUBLIC SERVICE–The Academy school day is designed to instill a “spirit of public service” in its cadets. ● RESPECT–Cadets will exhibit and reinforce behavior that demonstrates a sense of respect towards all individuals. ● INTEGRITY-Cadets will conduct themselves in a manner that exhibits “excellence in character” and an adherence to a strict ethical code. ● DISCIPLINE–Training will reinforce the importance of attention to detail. The necessity for self-control and incident specific demeanor will be an integral part of all instruction and all interactions throughout the Academy. ● EQUALITY–Cadets will model and reinforce an attitude that fosters uniformity, impartiality and equality.

Physical Training

Physical training is an integral part of the Public Safety Academy program. It is our expectation that cadets participate in all components of the physical training program. All cadets exercise as a group ​ under the direction of their superiors.

Academy Code of Honor

● A cadet will not lie, cheat or steal, nor will he/she mislead or deceive anyone as to known facts. ● A cadet will be truthful, trustworthy, honest and forthright at all times. ● Every cadet is presumed to be honorable at all times and to possess moral integrity to the fullest sense and will be treated accordingly, unless a cadet proves otherwise by his/her words or actions. ● A cadet should neither permit nor accept anything which is not just, right or true. He/she must do the right thing because it is right, not because of fear or punishment or peer pressure.

Cadet Pledge

As a Cadet of the Public Safety Academy and potential future public safety officer, I pledge to prepare myself to serve my community, protect lives and property, and respect the rights of all people. During my school career, I will work to develop myself intellectually, ethically, and 10 physically to achieve this goal.

Cadet Creed

Cadets are expected to memorize the creed, and will recite it every morning at formation.

“I am a Public Safety Academy cadet. I strive to achieve academic excellence. I exemplify high moral character. I work diligently to prepare for the future. I know my success in school and life is dependent on my own effort.”

Code of Ethics

1. I will, as a cadet, regard myself as a member of an important and honorable school. 2. I will conduct both my personal and academic life so as to inspire the confidence of the public. 3. I will regard my fellow cadets with the same standards as I hold for myself. 4. I will regard it my duty to avail myself of every educational opportunity. 5. I will avoid alliances with those whose goals are inconsistent with an honest and unbiased behavior. 6. I will make no claim to professional qualifications, which I do not possess. 7. I will be loyal to my superiors, to my subordinates, and to the school I represent.

Character Education

The Public Safety Academy has embraced the Josephson Institute Character Counts! Program for character education. The program is based on six ethical values that everyone can agree on.

The Six Pillars of Character

1. Trustworthiness Be honest • Do not deceive, cheat, or steal •be reliable— do what you say you’ll do Have the courage to do the right thing Build a good reputation • be loyal— stand by your family, friends, and country.

2. Respect Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule• Be tolerant and accepting of differences • Use good manners, no bad language• Be considerate of the feelings of others • Do not threaten, hit or hurt anyone• Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements.

3. Responsibility Do what you are supposed to do • Plan ahead • Persevere: keep on trying! •Always do your best• Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act—consider the consequences •Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes • Set a good example for others. 11

4. Fairness Play by the rules • Take turns and share• Be open-minded; listen to others • Do not take advantage of others • Do not blame others carelessly• Treat all people fairly.

5. Caring Be kind •Be compassionate and show you care •Express gratitude •Forgive others • Help people in need.

6. Citizenship Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate •Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority• Protect the environment • Volunteer.

Public Safety Academy Courtesies and Traditions

The Public Safety Academy is a paramilitary organization with courtesies and traditions that set it apart from civilian life, or traditional schools. Police/Firefighter courtesy extends beyond the common courtesy all citizens should adhere to; it is a practice that is necessary for the preservation of morale and discipline. Academy courtesy and traditions are used between superiors and subordinates to express respect for each other. Respect breeds respect, and Academy courtesy promotes professionalism.

Command and Leadership

Police and Fire Departments bear the responsibility of responding to and effectively managing emergencies. The Academy program conditions cadets to report in a timely manner, assemble in an organized fashion, recognize commanding officers and carry out orders and directions effectively through the use of a structured leadership training environment. Individual efforts alone will not ensure success. Teamwork is an essential element. The Academy utilizes military drill training to prepare its cadets to work together as a team to meet challenges in an organized and unified manner. On the drill ground, cadets learn to recognize rank, follow orders, and become familiar with formations and techniques. In addition, cadets learn to control their emotions during the performance of their duties under the pressures and stresses of the task at hand. The Academy atmosphere is purposely designed to develop teamwork and assist cadets in making the transition from a traditional school to the Academy.

During the early phases of the Academy, a cadet’s behavior is closely monitored and guided to foster disciplined performance. As the Academy progresses and the desired performance is achieved, the training program is gradually modified to provide cadets with increasing degrees of autonomy and authority. This gradual progression assists cadets in the development of problem solving ability, self-reliance, and leadership.

Addressing Staff/Classroom Courtesies

Cadets will address members of the Academy Staff, all other personnel associated with the Academy, and any adult as “Sir” or “Ma’am.” If a cadet is asked a question requiring a yes/no response, the response will be “Sir, Yes Sir,” “Sir, No Sir,” “Ma’am, Yes Ma’am,” or “Ma’am, 12 No Ma’am.”

When a cadet outside the classroom is addressed by a member of the academy staff, other visiting academic instructor, or personnel associated with the academy, the cadet will stop what he/she is doing, and immediately come to the position of parade rest. The cadet will remain at the position of parade rest until issued an alternative command, such as, “At ease/carry on,” or until he/she is dismissed by the person he/she is addressing.

Whenever a cadet is directed to report to an academy staff member’s office or classroom, the cadet will remain outside the office/classroom, knock three times on the doorframe and ask clearly, “Permission to enter, Sir/Ma’am?” The cadet will remain at the position of attention outside the doorway until directed to enter.

The principal may modify policies relating to the addressing of personnel to correspond with the cadet's current phase of training.

Dress Code

Maintenance of these standards is an integral part of both organizational and personal pride, and will be adhered to without exception.

All Public Safety Academy cadets shall wear the designated uniform unless authorized to wear civilian attire. The dress code is an area in which parent cooperation is essential to cadets and the school. Cadets wearing inappropriate attire/items to school will either remove them, change into PE clothes, or will have a parent contacted to either bring them appropriate attire or take them home to change.

Uniform

Your cadet uniform is not unlike those worn by police officers and firefighters. As such, the cadet should take pride in its appearance. As public safety officers report daily fully equipped to perform their duties, a cadet reports to school in order to do the same. A cadet’s equipment is primarily their book bag and/or duffel bag with appropriate supplies. A cadet’s duty is to learn, and they must have in their possession all equipment necessary to do so.

Uniform Shirt: Middle School: Light blue button up, with sewn shoulder patches.

High School: Dark blue button up, with sewn shoulder patches.

Shirts shall also have sewn on above the embroidered last name of the cadet, and above the name tag, an American flag.

Uniform Pant:

Middle school: Pants shall be a blue “Dickie” brand trouser.

High School: Pants shall be a dark blue polyester blend, uniform pant. 13

Service boots and belt: All cadets shall have a black basket weave leather belt. This will be worn at all times with the PSA cadet’s uniform. No other belts will be allowed. NO EXCEPTIONS. The proper footwear to be worn with the PSA cadet’s uniform will be black service boots. These boots will be shined, unscuffed, and maintained each day. Boots will be leather style boots. Canvas toed boots are not allowed.

PE Clothes: Cadets will wear a PSA navy-blue T-shirt and PSA navy shorts/sweats. White socks ​ and tennis shoes are also required.

Under Armor: During times of inclement weather, navy or black Under Armor® brand shirts may ​ be worn under the uniform shirt (*Must be Under Armor® or replica ONLY*). A PSA PT shirt will be worn over the Under Armor® shirt. If it is too hot, staff members may address the academy to remove all Under Armor® shirts.

Additional: The uniform shall be maintained in a consistent neat, clean, and ironed condition. ​ Shirts will remain fully tucked in at all times. Belts are to be worn whenever in uniform. Cadets shall wear a PSA PT (physical training) shirt under their uniform shirt at all times.

Outerwear: PSA approved jackets and sweaters are the only outerwear approved to be worn with ​ the cadet uniform. We suggest to get the cadet’s name embroidered on the inside of the collar to maintain personal accountability over all gear. All outerwear must be an appropriate size, all PSA patches and/or emblems must be visible and intact. Writing or drawing on any outerwear is strictly prohibited and would render the uniform item unwearable. Oversized or undersized, worn out, or defaced PSA jackets and sweaters diminish the professionalism of the uniform and will not be permitted to be worn.

At PSA, we are mindful of the safety, health, and well-being of each and every cadet. If the weather is above 75° fahrenheit, the academy as a whole will be instructed to remove all outerwear. ​ ​

Backpacks and gym bags MUST be either SOLID RED or SOLID BLACK. It is recommended to ​ ​ ​ ​ have the cadet's name embroidered on them.

Cadets must remain in full uniform while on campus. Students may not change into civilian ​ ​ clothing after school.

Hair (Female Cadets) ​

Hair must be in a secure bun at all times. Female cadets are not allowed to have any “flyaway” strands of hair; cadets may need to wear a significant amount of gel to assure hair remains in a neat bun throughout the school day. Hair may not touch the back of the shirt collar, extend over, or touch the ear. Hair will be worn off the forehead. No bangs. During athletic activities the ​ ​ cadet may wear their hair in a single ponytail or braid. Hair ornaments such as ribbons or decorative clips will not be worn while in uniform. Pins, combs, cloth covered elastic bands or 14 barrettes must be similar to the cadet’s hair color. Cadets are not allowed to dye or color their hair, unless the color looks natural, and is pre-approved by the school principal. After 3 uniform warnings, the student will receive a formal violation.

Hair (Male Cadets) ​

Hair will be neat, clean, and present a groomed appearance at all times. Hair may not touch the back of the shirt collar, extend over, or touch the ear. Hair will be kept combed and worn off the forehead and will NOT be longer than 2 inches in length when fully extended. The lower limit of the sideburn will be at the bottom of the opening of the ear. No designs or unnatural-looking hair color. No facial hair is permitted and eyebrows must not be shaven in any way. After 3 uniform warnings, the student will receive a formal violation. . Nails

Nails are to be kept clean and trimmed. For safety and uniformity reasons, nail length should not extend beyond the length of the finger. Clear nail polish is acceptable for female cadets. No artificial nails.

Makeup and Jewelry

Female cadets may wear stud earrings only. Male cadets are not permitted to wear earrings. No necklaces, rings, bracelets, wrist bands, etc. are allowed. Watches (and watchbands) must be black or blue leather/rubber or silver metal. iwatches & smart watches may NOT be worn. Female cadet’s makeup must have a natural and professional look at all times. Excessive makeup or unnatural colors will not be acceptable. NO facial piercings.

All uniform issues and discipline will first be handled by the cadet supervisors (remove names).

If there is a special event or school club which asks for an exception to a particular hairstyle or nails to be polished a certain way, a request form must first be filled out and turned into the cadet supervisor’s office at least one week prior to the event. This request form must be approved first by administration before the cadet makes any changes to his/her appearance.

Tattoos

Tattoos are NOT allowed. If students have tattoos, they must be covered at all times, underneath regulation uniform.

Behavior Policy

In order to be the best entry level employee, either as a police officer, firefighter, or in any profession, the development of certain traits is essential. Entry level employees must possess an open mindedness, which allows for their adaptability into a unique profession. They must be able to conform to established departmental rules, regulations, procedures, and traditions. They must show initiative, which will allow them to act whenever required, without direction. It is the philosophy of the academy that all cadets have the right to learn in a safe and caring 15 environment. It is important that there be a shared responsibility among cadets, parents, teachers and administrators in providing the most productive learning environment. The academy provides an atmosphere in which the cadets may learn all of the aforementioned traits as well as the required academic content standards. Cadet behavior that disrupts the educational process is not acceptable.

Cadet Responsibilities

● Cadets will treat others with thoughtfulness and courtesy. ● Cadets will obey all school and safety rules. ● Cadets will respect the rights and property of all people. ● Cadets will accept responsibility for their actions. ● Cadets will actively participate in the learning process. ​ ​ ​ ● Cadets will NOT consume food or drinks (other than water) in the classrooms. ​ ​ Gum is NOT allowed on campus. ​ ​ ● Cadets may have a water bottle with a lid on their desks during class. ​ ​

Harassment/Bullying

In accordance with Board Policy, the Public Safety Academy administration and staff members are sensitive and concerned about any kind of harassment. We can only effectively stop harassment when we are made aware of the situation as soon as possible, and/or before a situation develops. Cadets and parents are to report any situation involving harassment, or bullying to a staff member immediately.

The information will be forwarded to a school administrator so that the harassment can be immediately addressed. The practice of playing abusive or humiliating tricks on another cadet, or any group of individuals is strictly prohibited. Actions that may be classified as bullying are further activities that will not be tolerated at any level, and will be dealt with swiftly.

PSASB students may be suspended and/or expelled from the school for participating in unlawful ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ harassment by means of verbal or physical conduct based on a student’s actual or perceived race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability. This includes any verbal or physical conduct that has the purpose or effect of interfering with a student’s educational performance or ​ ​ creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

If your cadet is a victim of any type of bullying or harassment, there is a “bullying complaint” form on our website at psasb.us. You may fill out this form, contact the school directly, or both. ​ ​

Loss of Privilege

Loss of privilege is a status assigned to cadets who have significantly violated the disciplinary or behavioral expectations of the school. Cadets on the “Loss of Privilege” list are denied participation in non-academic school events (dances, field trips, etc.) for up to one quarter following their loss of privilege infraction.

16 Infractions that may result in a cadet being placed on Loss of Privilege:

● Suspension ● Three or more referrals within one quarter, and/or excessive disciplinary incidents ● Excessive tardies ● Refusal to serve detentions ● Excessive uniform violations ● Excessive classroom disruptions

**After reviewing this handbook thoroughly, please sign the “Acknowledgement Page” and turn in to the school. If you have any questions, please contact the office.**

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