Friendly House

Academia Del Pueblo

Student/Family

Handbook

2026-2027

IMPORTANT

Please READ

The Academia Del Pueblo Handbook will be made available at the beginning of the school year, and will also be made available to newly enrolled students throughout the school year.

Each student/parent is expected to review the handbook within the first 10

days of school from the date of distribution.

Please understand that failure to return this signed form within ten

(10) school days from the date of distribution will be deemed constructive acknowledgment and implied consent to the above policies. In such cases, the school will proceed under the presumption that the parent/guardian has accepted the terms and

conditions of the policies referenced herein.

Principal Welcome Letter

Dear Families,

Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year at Academia del Pueblo. We are proud to continue our tradition of excellence while strengthening the relationships, programs, and supports that help every student feel connected, safe, and ready to learn.

Teacher Retention

While the number of classroom teachers has been slightly reduced from last year, we are pleased that our

remaining classroom teachers are returning for the 2026-2027 school year. Their experience, commitment, and

knowledge of our students will provide important continuity as we begin the new year.

What does this mean for your child?

● Strong, established relationships with teachers who already know our school community.

● Instructional consistency that supports deeper learning and academic growth.

● A stable, experienced team committed to high expectations and student success.

Important Updates and Information

Arizona Healthy Schools Act - House Bill 2164

Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, schools participating in federally funded meal programs must follow the Arizona Healthy Schools Act. The law limits foods and beverages served or sold by the school or third parties

during the normal school day when they contain certain additives and synthetic food dyes. Academia del Pueblo will implement updated food, snack, beverage, and celebration guidelines to support student wellness and comply with these requirements.

Families should review the Food on Campus guidelines in this handbook. The guidelines explain healthy choices, items that may not be served or shared on campus, classroom celebration expectations, and procedures for protecting students with allergies and dietary needs.

A Continued Focus on Safety

The safety of our students remains our highest priority. Academia del Pueblo successfully secured three additional years of funding through the Arizona Department of Education to maintain a School Safety Officer on campus. This

continued support strengthens our ability to provide a visible safety presence, respond quickly to concerns, and build positive relationships with students, families, and staff.

School Attendance

Daily attendance and arriving on time are essential to academic progress. This year, ADP will use a clear, progressive Attendance Intervention Process for tardies and unexcused absences. The process begins with reminders and family support, progresses to conferences and formal notification, and may result in an attendance or tardy contract when concerns continue. Please review the full process in the Attendance section of this handbook.

Parent Partnership & School Spirit

Parents and families are essential members of the ADP community. During the school year, families will have additional opportunities to participate in parent and family engagement activities, student celebrations, workshops,

sports programs, performances, school spirit events, and other special activities. We encourage you to stay connected, attend events whenever possible, and help your child take pride in being an ADP Eagle.

● Ensure your child attends every day, arrives on time, and is ready to learn.

● Stay connected through the school’s parent communication platforms.

● Communicate regularly with teachers and staff about academic progress, attendance, and student needs.

● Support school activities, sports programs, family events, and special celebrations.

Continuing Cell Phone Expectations

The cell phone and wireless device policy implemented last school year will remain in effect for 2026-2027 and will be fully enforced. Students must keep personal electronic devices stored in their backpacks or personal bags

throughout the school day unless a staff member authorizes use for an approved purpose. Progressive consequences will continue to apply to violations.

Together, we can build a strong school year grounded in consistent attendance, family partnership, school pride, student wellness, and safety. Thank you for your continued trust and support.

With gratitude and pride,

Frank Lomeli, M.Ed.

School Principal

Academia del Pueblo Elementary

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Rules & Guidelines

Adopted: July 22 nd , 2025

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Academia del Pueblo is committed to preparing our students for the future by embracing innovative tools that support learning, critical thinking, and responsible technology use. One of the most powerful and fast-growing tools

in today’s world is Artificial Intelligence (AI). Artificial Intelligence, or AI, refers to computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as understanding language, recognizing patterns,

solving problems, and even creating content. AI is becoming a part of everyday life, from intelligent assistants like Siri and Alexa to tools that help with writing, math, and translation.

This guide is designed to help our students, families, and staff understand what AI is, how it can support learning, and how ADP will use it safely, ethically, and effectively.

Our AI Tools at ADP

At Academia del Pueblo, we are taking a thoughtful and responsible approach to integrating AI into our school environment. To support the unique needs of our educators and students, we will use different tools for different

purposes.

For teachers and staff, we will be using Google Gemini as our primary AI interface. Gemini will support lesson planning, communication, data organization, and professional tasks to enhance efficiency and instructional quality.

In the classroom, our approved AI tools for student learning are Magic School and Diffit.

Please look at these AI platforms here:

Magic School AI: https://www.magicschool.ai

Diffit: https://web.diffit.me

Magic Schools AI and Diffit:

These platforms are designed with student safety, grade-level support, and educational impact. They will help

personalize instruction, support diverse learners, and enrich daily learning experiences safely and age- appropriately.

By intentionally selecting the right tools for each setting, we aim to ensure that AI enhances learning, supports educators, and aligns with our mission of academic excellence for all.

Information entered in AI (Privacy Laws)

Academia del Pueblo (ADP) Staff and Students must not enter any personally identifiable information (PII) into AI applications. This is to ensure compliance with federal and state data privacy laws, including FERPA, and to protect the privacy and safety of all members of our school community.

Protecting Student Information

While some teachers may use AI to support instructional planning or student-related tasks, it is critical to understand that no student Personally Identifiable Information (PII) should be input into AI tools, especially

generative AI, unless expressly approved by ADP administration and fully compliant with data privacy laws. Links to legal guidelines can be found here and on the school’s website under AI Guidelines: AI Legal Guidelines &

ARS Compliance Links

Examples of Personally Identifiable Information (PII):

The following types of information must NEVER be entered into AI platforms unless specifically authorized:

● Student names

● Home or school addresses

● Phone numbers

● Email addresses

● Social Security Numbers

● Birthdates

● Driver’s license or passport numbers

● Biometric data (e.g., facial recognition or fingerprints)

● Academic records (grades, test scores, etc.)

● Disciplinary history

● Attendance records

● Any student data stored in school information systems

At ADP, we aim to harness AI's benefits in a safe, responsible, and legally compliant manner. Staff are encouraged to ask administration questions about approved tools, appropriate use, or data privacy concerns.

Student Use of AI at Academia del Pueblo

While Google Gemini is not available for student use within ADP’s network or systems, we recognize that students may still access external AI platforms independently outside of school. For this reason, it is essential to set clear

expectations around when and how AI may or may not be used in academic settings.

Teachers will communicate whether the use of AI is permitted, restricted, or prohibited for each assignment. This clarity is essential for maintaining academic integrity and ensuring students understand AI tools & appropriate and ethical use. Even when AI is allowed, students are expected to cite AI-generated content and disclose when they’ve used AI as a resource.

By having a consistent and proactive approach, ADP ensures that students develop responsible digital habits and maintain honesty in their academic work.

AI Use and Academic Integrity

Academia del Pueblo promotes the thoughtful and ethical use of AI to enhance student learning, in alignment with our school’s Academic Integrity Policy and our commitment to preparing students for a technology-driven world.

When used responsibly, AI tools can help students develop research, writing, and critical thinking skills. However, the use of AI in classrooms must:

● Be approved by the ADP administration

● Be guided by the teacher’s instructions and expectations

● Include lessons on proper and ethical AI use

● Promote transparency and accountability, including appropriate citations and disclosures of AI-generated content.

● Be accessible to all students, including English language learners and students with disabilities.

● Comply with FERPA, always ensuring student data privacy and confidentiality.

Teachers will monitor the use of AI and integrate it in a way that supports student learning while protecting academic integrity. Students should never use AI to complete assignments dishonestly or bypass the learning process. At ADP, we believe AI can be a powerful educational tool when used responsibly, ethically, and with purpose.

Student & Parent AI Use Agreement Signature Page

As part of our commitment to responsible and safe technology use, Academia del Pueblo is introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to support teaching and learning. To ensure all students use AI in a respectful, ethical, and

secure manner, we ask that both students and parents/guardians read and acknowledge the following agreement.

AI Use Agreement Overview

By acknowledging these guidelines via Student Handbook, we understand and agree that:

1. Students will only use approved AI tools in the classroom, such as Magic School and Diffit, and only under teacher guidance.

2. Google Gemini is restricted to staff use only and will not be available to students.

3. Students will not enter personal or identifiable information into any AI tool.

4. Students must follow teacher instructions regarding when AI use is allowed or prohibited.

5. All AI-assisted work must be cited or disclosed when used for an assignment.

6. Use of AI for cheating, plagiarism, or dishonest academic behavior will result in disciplinary action consistent with the school’s academic integrity policy.

7. Parents and students understand that AI use will comply with FERPA, CIPA, COPPA, and applicable Arizona State Laws.

Responsible Use – No Harm to Others

AI tools must never be used to harm, intimidate, harass, or threaten any student, staff member, or person on campus. This includes, but is not limited to:

● Bullying, teasing, or spreading false information (digitally or in person)

● Generating harmful or inappropriate content about others on social media

● Using AI for illegal or malicious intent

● Encouraging or assisting others in harmful actions

Any willful misuse of AI with the intent to cause harm will result in strict disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion, in accordance with school policies.

Arizona Healthy Schools Act & Food on Campus Guidelines

Effective in the 2026-2027 school year, the Arizona Healthy Schools Act (House Bill 2164) restricts schools participating in federally funded meal programs from serving, selling, or allowing third parties to sell food or

beverages containing certain ultra processed ingredients during the normal school day. ADP has adopted the following campus guidelines to promote wellness and support compliance.

Drinks

Allowed

Plain water; fat-free or low-fat milk; 100% fruit or vegetable juice; approved dairy-free alternatives

Not Allowed

Soda; energy drinks; sports drinks; fruit punch; sweetened or

artificially colored beverages

Snacks and Food

Healthy Choices

Fresh fruits and vegetables; low-fat yogurt or cheese; whole-

grain crackers; popcorn; unsweetened fruit cups; approved nut-

free options

Not Allowed for School-Provided or Shared Items

Candy and gummies; hot chips and cheese puffs; packaged pastries; high-sugar baked goods; foods containing restricted additives or synthetic dyes

Classroom Celebrations and Food Sharing

● All class-wide food items must be store-bought, include an ingredient label, and be checked in through the front office.

● Treats and special meals require advance approval from the classroom teacher and, when applicable, school administration.

● At least one non-food celebration option, such as games, crafts, music, books, or stickers, is encouraged.

● Students may not share food or beverages because of allergies, dietary restrictions, and individual health

needs.

● Parents may provide food for their own child; however, items intended for sharing must follow school

guidelines.

The school may provide additional guidance or restrict specific products as needed to comply with state or federal requirements and to protect student health and safety.

Schedule and Attendance

Regular and timely attendance is essential to educational success. Students are expected to attend every scheduled school day and arrive before 8:00 a.m. School staff will partner with families to identify barriers, provide

support, and implement progressive interventions when attendance concerns develop.

K – 8 SCHOOL DAY

7:30 am Gates open campus open for student drop off. NO ADULT coverage prior to 7:30am

7:30 am Breakfast in Cafeteria

8:00 am-2:30 pm Instructional hours. (Students not present by 8:00 am are considered tardy.)

2:45 pm Dismissal*

*Dismissal Notes:

● Half Day Dismissal on Wednesdays is at 12:30 pm

● If your child is leaving school early, you must notify the front office by 2:20 pm at the latest, and by 12 noon

on Wednesdays.

● Students will not be dismissed between 2:20-2:45pm

*For a copy of the daily Master Schedule, please contact the front office or your child’s teacher.

*Notes:

● K-8: Students rotate through PE and Media classes each week

*For a copy of the 2026-27 School year calendar, please visit https://www.academiadelpueblo.org/ Or you may request a physical copy at the front office.

Tardy Intervention Process

Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. are considered tardy. A parent or guardian must sign the student in through the front office, and the student must obtain a late pass before reporting to class. Tardies are monitored by quarter.

School administration may accelerate an intervention when a pattern is severe, persistent, or connected to other attendance concerns.

Threshold | School Response | Purpose

3 tardies Courtesy reminder to parent/guardian Reinforce expectations and identify early barriers.

5 tardies Formal written warning Document the concern and explain the next steps.

7 tardies Required in-person parent conference Identify causes, supports, and a written improvement plan.

10 tardies Final formal notification Advise that continued tardiness will lead

to a contract.

12 tardies Tardy Attendance Contract Establish required expectations, supports, and weekly monitoring.

Continued tardies Additional administrative intervention

May include counseling, transportation planning, privilege restrictions, or other appropriate action.

Tardy intervention thresholds reset at the beginning of each quarter as outlined below:

Quarter 1: August 3 – October 2

Quarter 2: October 13 – December 18

Quarter 3: January 5 – March 5

Quarter 4: March 15 – May 14

Students who reach the 12-tardy Attendance Contract threshold during any quarter will NOT be eligible for a quarterly reset of their tardy status. An individualized Attendance Improvement Plan will be developed and monitored by the Academia del Pueblo Student Support Team in partnership with the student and parent/guardian.

Link to Attendance Intervention Process can be found here: ADP Attendance Intervention Process

Unexcused Absence Intervention Process

An absence is unexcused when the school does not receive timely parent or guardian notification or when the reason does not meet the school’s criteria for an excused absence. Families must notify the school within one week of the absence.

Unexcused Absences Progressive Intervention Required Action

1: Automated or personal attendance notification Parent confirms reason and reviews expectations.

2: Personal outreach from school staff Discuss the cause and available support.

4: Formal attendance warning letter Family receives written notice and attendance record.

6: Required in-person attendance conference Create an Attendance Improvement Plan.

8: Final formal notification Review compulsory attendance requirements and consequences.

10: Formal Attendance Contract Student and parent sign expectations and begin weekly monitoring.

12-14: Intensive support and administrative review Review barriers, services, documentation, and contract compliance.

15-17: Final attendance review Administration determines whether community or truancy referral is appropriate.

18 days / 10%: Chronic absenteeism review Medical documentation may be required; referral to CUTS or other lawful action may be considered. 

Attendance and Tardy Contract Expectations

Students agree to attend daily, arrive on time, complete make-up work, and check in with designated staff. Parents agree to promptly notify the school, attend required meetings, provide documentation when requested, and work with the school to address barriers. ADP agrees to monitor attendance, communicate regularly, provide appropriate referrals and supports, and recognize improvement.

Legal and Administrative Review

Arizona law places responsibility for school attendance on the parent or guardian of a child between six and sixteen years of age. Absences may be considered excessive when they exceed ten percent of the required attendance days. ADP may refer appropriate cases to the Court Unified Truancy Suppression (CUTS) Program or pursue other remedies permitted by law after supportive interventions have been attempted.

The administration may adjust the sequence or timing of interventions based on the severity of the concern, the student’s attendance history, documented medical or disability-related needs, homelessness or housing instability, transportation barriers, or other individual circumstances.

Student & Family Handbook

Acknowledgments and Verification

You are acknowledging and verifying that you have received, and take the responsibility to review with your child, the documents referenced below, which can be found in this handbook, including, without limitation, the annual notification regarding confidentiality of student education records (FERPA) and the school’s policy on the designation of directory information, school bus privileges, due process, and dress code.

Discipline Procedures – Discipline Expectations and Consequences

As the parent/guardian in Friendly House Academia Del Pueblo School (hereinafter, Academia Del Pueblo), you have the right to a quality education for your children. To make sure that every student enjoys that right, the School has established procedures regarding disruptive behavior. The procedures for student responsibilities are designed to create an orderly environment that is safe for all students and staff. The rules are reasonable and fair. We ask that you carefully read the infractions and consequences. Academia Del Pueblo has severe consequences for drugs, weapons, or threatening behavior. Any such act may result in a recommendation for long- term suspension or expulsion. Some infractions may result in a referral to a local law enforcement agency, in addition to school consequences, such as suspension or expulsion. 

To confirm the acknowledgment and verification of this Student & Family Handbook section, please sign the one-page, combined Acknowledgment and Verification Form. 

Electronic Information Systems User Agreement

Acknowledgments and Verification

You are acknowledging and verifying that you have received, and take the responsibility to review with your child, the document referenced below, which can be found in this handbook, including, without limitation, the policy/procedures for due process, email and internet use expectations, electronic devices expectations, and disciplinary consequences for such, and electronic information systems user agreement.

Electronic Information Systems Expectations and Consequences

As a parent of a student(s) at Academia Del Pueblo (ADP), you have the right to a quality education for your children, including access to technology and innovative instructional practices. To make sure that every student enjoys that right, the School has established procedures regarding the use of electronic devices. The procedures for student use of electronic devices are designed to create a rich learning environment that is safe and productive for all students and staff. The expectations are reasonable and fair, and they are as consistent as possible at each school. We ask that you carefully read the expectations, guidelines, and consequences. Academia Del Pueblo has severe consequences for misuse of electronic devices and electronic information systems. Any violations may result in suspension, long-term suspension, expulsion, and/or referral to a local law enforcement agency.

Student & Parent Software Agreement

The student agrees to abide by the terms and conditions of all software and end-user license agreements that are in place, or that may be required for each piece of software issued and used for the student’s specific use in the classroom. This includes, but is not limited to, products provided by Adobe, Microsoft, Apple Inc., and others not listed here that may have been or shall be provided at any future period by ADP. Under this agreement, students will:

• Abide by the license agreement associated with such software;

• Understand the minimum specifications to run the software as listed;

ELECTRONIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (EIS) USER AGREEMENT

Internet access and email are available to students and teachers at Academia Del Pueblo. ADP believes the Internet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to both students and teachers. Our goal in providing this service is to promote educational excellence in schools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, communication, and educating minors about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms, cyberbullying awareness, and response. While our intent is to make Internet access available to further educational goals and objectives, students may find ways to access other materials as well. We believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, exceed any disadvantages; but ultimately, parents/guardians and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources.

To that end, Academia Del Pueblo has adopted the following policy:

Acceptable Use – Each user MUST:

• Use Electronic Information Systems (EIS) to support personal educational objectives consistent with the educational goals and objectives of Academia Del Pueblo.

•  Agree not to submit, publish, display, or retrieve any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, or illegal material.

• Understand that electronic mail or direct electronic communication is not private and may be read and monitored by school-employed persons.

• Do not attempt to harm, modify, add to, or destroy software or hardware, nor interfere with system security.

Unacceptable Uses – Each user must NOT:

• Users will not harass, insult, attack others, or use obscene language in written communications.

• Users may not use free web-based email, messaging, video conferencing, or chat services.  

• Users will not download and use games, files, documents, music, or software for non- educational purposes. (i.e., Shockwave games/animations, audio, and other visual files).

• Users will not take photographs/videos of other students and/or staff without their permission.

• Users will not eat or drink around school devices.

• Users will not use devices outside of classrooms.

• Users will not upload any photographs/videos of students and/or staff to social media sites.

To confirm the acknowledgment and verification of this Electronic Information Systems User Agreement section, please sign the one-page, combined Acknowledgment and Verification Form. 

Student Media Consent and Release Form

Acknowledgments and Verification

Throughout the school year, students may be highlighted in efforts to promote Academia Del Pueblo activities and achievements. For example, students may be featured in materials used to train teachers and/or increase public awareness of our schools through newspapers, radio, TV, the web, DVDs, displays, brochures, and other media. I, as the parent or guardian of [THE LISTED NAME ON THE ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND VERIFICATION FORM], hereby give Academia Del Pueblo and its employees, representatives, and authorized media organizations permission to print, photograph, and record my child for use in audio, video, film, or any other electronic, digital, and printed media. 

a. This is with the understanding that neither Academia Del Pueblo nor its representatives will reproduce said photograph, interview, or likeness for any commercial value or receive monetary gain for use of any reproduction/broadcast of said photograph or likeness. I am also fully aware that I will not receive monetary compensation for my child’s participation. 

b. I further release and relieve Academia Del Pueblo, its Board of Trustees, employees, and other representatives from any liabilities, known or unknown, arising out of the use of this material. I certify that I have read the Media Consent and Release Liability statement and fully understand its terms and conditions. 

To confirm the acknowledgement and verification of this Student Media Consent and Release Form, section, please sign the one-page, combined Acknowledgement and Verification Form. 

Outcomes & Expectations

Academia Del Pueblo Student Outcomes

Linking:  Expert Educators │ Relevant Curriculum │ Engaged Learners

 (Based on the nine-year student experience at Academia del Pueblo)

We believe Academia del Pueblo students will become critical thinkers and problem solvers who think and act both locally and globally. 

We believe that Academia del Pueblo students will make meaning from and engage in scholarly discussions about what they think and learn.

We believe that Academia del Pueblo students will be leaders in recognizing the importance of their role in our world.

We believe that Academia del Pueblo students will actively engage in learning with a positive belief in themselves and others.

We believe Academia del Pueblo students will be decision makers in using technology to innovate, create, and share.

We believe that Academia del Pueblo students will strive to achieve sustainable digital, mental, and physical health in all areas of their lives.

Adopted – April 5, 2017

Academia Del Pueblo Staff Expectations

Linking:  Expert Educators │ Relevant Curriculum │ Engaged Learners

 (Expectations that guide students to desired outcomes)

Academia del Pueblo staff will create a joyous and supportive learning community focused on student motivation and lesson authenticity, leveraging each instructional moment.

Academia del Pueblo teachers will utilize collaborative engagement strategies and encourage risk-taking to optimize student discourse.

Academia del Pueblo staff will disrupt the status quo so that our students have a model for social justice and inquiry.

Academia del Pueblo teachers will lead with learning and integrate technology with intention.

Academia del Pueblo teachers will teach cognitive and problem-solving strategies to develop our students into critical thinkers.

Academia del Pueblo staff will cultivate moral judgement and civic responsibility.

Academia del Pueblo staff will promote a school wide philosophy of Kids At Hope on a daily basis.

Adopted – April 5, 2017

History & General Information

Academia Del Pueblo is a K-8 charter school located in Phoenix. Academia del Pueblo is part of the Friendly House organization and has been in operations since 1997. The school offers a comprehensive elementary school curriculum that employs high academic standards and strategic curriculum interventions designed to meet and excel Arizona College and Career Readiness State Standards in Kindergarten through eighth grade. Our highly qualified teachers create innovative lesson plans to challenge and inspire our students to become global thinkers and community leaders. All students receive rigorous instruction: in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Media & Technology, and Physical Education. Friendly House’s Early Childhood Development Center is also located on the campus of Academia del Pueblo and provides a fee-based program servicing children between the ages of 3-5. 

201 E. Durango Street

Phoenix, AZ 85004

Phone: 602-258-4353

School Colors: 

Burgundy and Gold

School Mascot: 

The Mighty Eagle

Academia Del Pueblo Administrative Team:

Principal: Frank Lomeli

Assistant Principal: Jose Hernandez

Coordinator of Teaching & Learning / Education Specialist – Tiffany Flores

Operations Manager: Lorena Gutierrez

Administrative Assistant & Student Services Coordinator: Alicia Lopez

SAIS Data & Billing Coordinator: Lourdes Barragan

Counselor and Dean of Students: Matthew Blair

Academia Del Pueblo School Board:

Chair: Martin Perez, Jr. 

Vice Chair: Rosie Peacock

Member: Leslie Banks

Member: Sarah Glover

Friendly House CEO: 

Statement of Equal Opportunity 

ADP does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, language, or ability. ADP is in compliance with state and federal laws covering health, safety, disability, and insurance. Information on special education policies is separate from this handbook. School special education policies are available in the school office.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

All students are entitled to enjoy the basic rights of citizenship that are recognized and protected by the laws of this country and state for persons of their age and maturity. Each student is obligated to respect the rights of classmates, teachers, and other school personnel. Academia shall foster a climate of mutual respect for the rights of others. Such an environment will enhance both the educational purpose for which the School exists and the educational program designed to achieve that purpose.

All School personnel shall recognize and respect the rights of students, just as all students shall exercise their rights responsibly, with due regard for the equal rights of others and in compliance with the rules and procedures established for the orderly conduct of the educational mission of the School. Students who violate the rights of others or who violate rules and procedures of the School are subject to appropriate disciplinary measures designed to correct their own misconduct and to promote adherence by them and by other students to the responsibilities of citizens in the school community.

The following basic guidelines of rights and responsibilities shall not be construed to be all-inclusive, nor shall it in any way diminish the legal authority of school officials to deal with disruptive students. These guidelines will be reviewed annually by a committee of stakeholders and updated when required.

Student Rights

• 
  

• Students have the right to a meaningful education that will be of value to them for the rest of their lives.

• Students have the right to a meaningful curriculum and the right to voice their opinions, through representatives of the student government, in the development of such a curriculum.

• Students have the right to physical safety, safe buildings, and sanitary facilities.

• Students have the right to consultation with teachers, counselors, administrators, and anyone else connected with the school if they so desire, without fear of reprisal.

• Students have the right to free elections of their peers in student government, and all students have the right to seek and hold office in accordance with the provisions of the student government constitution and in keeping with the extracurricular guidelines of the School.

• Students have the right to be made aware of administrative and/or faculty committee decisions and to be aware of the policies set forth by the School.

• Legal guardians or authorized representatives have the right to see the personal files, cumulative folders, or transcripts of their children who are under the age of eighteen (18) years. School authorities may determine the time and manner of presentation of this information.

• Students' academic performance shall be the prime criterion for academic grades; however, noncompliance with school rules and procedures may affect grades (e.g., unexcused absences).

• Students shall not be subjected to unreasonable or excessive punishment.

• Students have the right to be involved in school activities, provided they meet the reasonable qualifications of sponsoring organizations, state organizations, and school procedures.

• Students have the right to express their viewpoints in a respectful manner, under the guidance of school personnel. 

• Students in upper grades are eligible to apply to be members of Student Government – STUGO.  All students in STUGO must maintain an academic C average in all core classes and be a positive role model on campus.

• All students are eligible to try out for various sports.  All students enrolled in sports activities must maintain an academic passing grade in all core classes. 

Student Responsibilities

• 
  

• Students have the responsibility to respect the rights of all persons involved in the educational process and to exercise the highest degree of self-discipline in observing and adhering to school rules and procedures.

• Students have the responsibility to take maximum advantage of the educational opportunities available and seek to achieve a meaningful education.

• All members of the school community, including students, parents, and school staff members, have the responsibility to promote regular attendance at school.

• Students have the responsibility to protect school property, equipment, books, electronic

  • devices, and other materials issued to or used by them in the instructional process. At the discretion of school leadership, students may be held financially responsible or required to provide community service for any loss or intentional damage caused to any school property listed above.

  • Students have the responsibility to complete all course assignments to the best of their ability and to complete make- up work after an absence.

  • Students have the responsibility to help maintain the cleanliness and safety of the school buildings and property.

  • Students have the responsibility to present themselves in class at the prescribed time and with the necessary materials.

  • Students must always present to school in a school uniform, unless otherwise specified.

  
  

  Teacher Rights and Responsibilities

  Teacher Rights

  
  

  • To work in a safe environment, conducive to teaching and learning.

  • To receive support services required to provide optimum learning in the classroom.

  • To work with students who make an honest effort to learn.

  • To have distractions from educational tasks kept to an absolute minimum.

  • To be treated with respect by all students, parents, and school personnel.

  Teacher Responsibilities

  
  

  • To come to school dressed appropriately (business casual) for a professional environment, prepared to teach all students.

  • To be on time and to perform all assigned duties and tasks.

  • To provide well-planned instruction each day.

  • To make every effort to address the needs, concerns, and problems of each student and parent.

  • To provide assessments, data, and feedback to students and parents.

  • To know and follow the school and Friendly House policies and procedures.

  • To treat students, parents, and staff with respect.

Academia del Pueblo Elementary

Parent and Family Engagement Policy

Title I Parent and Family Engagement Policy: Strategies for Building Strong Relationships and Partnerships

Purpose:

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that parents and families are engaged as partners in their children's education, and to promote strong communication and collaboration between families and the school. The policy is aligned with the Title I requirements for parent and family engagement and is designed to improve student achievement and success.

Policy Statement:

1. Parent and Family Involvement: The school shall actively involve parents and families in their children's education, and shall provide opportunities for families to participate in school activities, events, and decision-making processes. The school shall establish a Parent and Family Engagement Committee to oversee the implementation of this policy, and shall include parents and families in the committee.

2. Communication: The school shall establish clear and effective communication channels to inform parents and families about their children's academic progress, school policies and procedures, and opportunities for involvement. The school shall use multiple modes of communication, including electronic and print media, to ensure that all families can access the information they need.

3. Parent and Family Learning: The school shall provide opportunities for parents and families to enhance their knowledge and skills to support their children's education. The school shall offer workshops, trainings, and other resources to support parental involvement, including opportunities to learn about academic standards, testing, and college and career readiness.

4. Parent and Family Leadership: The school shall actively seek and support parent and family leadership in school decision-making processes, and shall provide training and resources to

support leadership development. The school shall engage parents and families in school improvement planning, budgeting, and other key decision-making processes.

5. Evaluation: The school shall evaluate the effectiveness of this policy on an annual basis and shall use the evaluation data to make adjustments and improvements as needed. The evaluation shall include data on parent and family engagement, student achievement, and other relevant measures.

Implementation:

The school shall establish a Parent and Family Engagement Committee to oversee the implementation of this policy. The committee shall be composed of district administrators, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders, and shall be responsible for monitoring the effectiveness of the policy and making recommendations for improvement. The committee shall provide regular reports to the principal and the school board.

Evaluation:

The school shall evaluate the effectiveness of this policy on an annual basis. The evaluation shall include data on parent and family engagement, student achievement, and other relevant measures. The school shall use the evaluation data to make adjustments to the policy as needed.

Academia del Pueblo Elementary School - Parent – Student Compact

Title I School Parent Compact Policy

Purpose: The purpose of this Title I School Parent Compact Policy is to establish a partnership between the school, parents, and students to improve academic achievement and ensure student success. This policy is in compliance with the Title I requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).

Policy Statement: Our school is committed to working collaboratively with parents to provide a high-quality education that prepares students for success in college, career, and life. We recognize that parents are a child's first teacher and that their involvement in their child's education is essential to student success. This Title I School Parent Compact Policy outlines the shared responsibilities of the school, parents, and students in achieving academic excellence.

School Responsibilities: The school will:

1. Provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment that promotes academic achievement and social-emotional development.

2. Provide high-quality curriculum and instruction that is aligned with state standards and designed to meet the individual needs of students.

3. Provide ongoing assessments to monitor student progress and identify areas for improvement.

4. Communicate regularly with parents about their child's academic progress, attendance, and behavior.

5. Provide opportunities for parent involvement and engagement in school activities, decision-making processes, and student learning.

Parent Responsibilities: Parents will:

1. Create a home environment that values and supports education, including setting expectations for regular attendance, completion of homework, and academic achievement.

2. Communicate regularly with teachers and staff about their child's academic progress, attendance, and behavior.

3. Participate in school activities, decision-making processes, and parent-teacher conferences.

4. Encourage their child's interest in learning and provide opportunities for academic enrichment and extracurricular activities.

5. Support the school's discipline policies and work with teachers and staff to address any issues that may arise.

Student Responsibilities: Students will:

1. Attend school regularly and on time, ready to learn and participate in class.

2. Complete homework assignments and classwork to the best of their ability.

3. Respect themselves, their peers, and school staff.

4. Be responsible for their own learning and seek help when needed.

5. Participate in school activities and take advantage of academic enrichment and extracurricular opportunities.

Communication: The school will communicate the Title I School Parent Compact Policy to parents at the beginning of each school year and make it available in English and other languages as needed. The school will also communicate regularly with parents through newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and other means to discuss their child's academic progress, attendance, and behavior.

Review and Evaluation: This Title I School Parent Compact Policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure it reflects the current needs of our school community. The school will evaluate the effectiveness of this policy in improving academic achievement and student success.

School Board Approved: April 18, 2023

Health and Medical Issues

Emergency Contacts: It is imperative that parents/guardians keep current email addresses, home, work, and emergency contact phone numbers on file with the school in the event that their child is injured or becomes ill. Only first aid is administered to an injured student.

Chronic Illness form:  If your child has a chronic illness that may prevent him/her from being absent from school multiple times, please contact the front office for a chronic illness form. This form must be filled out and accompanied by a signed note from a medical practitioner.

Medications: Students are not to carry any medication to or from school. In the case of prescribed medicines that must be administered during the school day, there must be a written medication order from a licensed prescriber and a consent form (available from the school office) signed by the parent or guardian. The pharmacy should be asked to provide separate containers for school and home. For short-term prescriptions, the pharmacy label may be used in lieu of a licensed prescriber's order. Only the school office may give this medication to children. Please contact the school office for clarification on the dispensing of medication in school if you have any questions. The school office is not responsible for dispensing medication. 

Vision and Hearing:  Children will receive an annual hearing and vision screening in certain grades according to state law, and any student suspected of having a specific learning disability will be screened. In the event that special hearing or vision concerns are detected, notices are sent to parents.

Immunizations: Students admitted to Academia del Pueblo must submit proof of immunizations to the school office unless the student is exempt under A.R.S. section 15-873.

Head Lice (pediculosis): Whenever parents or guardians detect head lice in their family, it is essential that the school office be alerted immediately, even if treatment has been undertaken already. This allows school personnel to alert all parents in the class via a letter sent home. In this way, the spread of lice to others can be reduced. The school sends home information about treatment procedures that must be carried out in the home environment (e.g., inspection of heads, treatment of clothing, linens, and personal items). Head lice are a common yearly occurrence in schools since they are so easily transmitted. Precautions taken early can limit the spread.  If active lice are present, per the CDC guidelines, the student will be sent home.

Participation in P.E Programs:  The physical education program in the elementary school has, as its objective, the physical, social-emotional, and intellectual development of children. Therefore, if a child is able to be in school, then he or she is expected to participate in school activities, including gym and recess. The only exception would be a written directive from the child's physician. If you have any questions, please call the school office at (602) 258-4353.

Birthday and Classroom Celebrations: All food and beverages must follow the Arizona Healthy Schools Act and the Food on Campus Guidelines in this handbook. Class-wide items must be store-bought, include an ingredient label, be checked in through the front office, and receive advance approval. Students may not share food or beverages because of allergies and dietary restrictions.

Suicide and/or Mental Health Crisis 

In the event of a student (s) in crisis, the proper staff will assist the student(s) in crisis and call the mental health crisis line. The parent(s) of the student in crisis will be notified.

Local Suicide and Crisis Phone Hotlines

• Maricopa County is served by Mercy Care: 

  
  

  1-800-631-1314 or 602-222-9444

• Teen Life Line phone or text: 

  
  

  602-248-TEEN (8336)

National 24-Hour Crisis Hotlines

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 

  
  

  1-800-273-TALK (8255)

• National Substance Use and Disorder Issues Referral and Treatment Hotline: 

  
  

  1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Text - Text the word "HOME" to 74174

Enrollment, Registration and Placement

Registering a Student:  To be enrolled for kindergarten in Academia del Pueblo, students must be five years of age by September 1 of the year in which they enter kindergarten. They must be six by September 1 to enter first grade. However, for the 2026-27 school year, ADP is allowing students turning 5 from September 2nd to September 30, to apply for Early Access (there are requirements for testing). For any student to register, we need a birth certificate (or other proof of date of birth), updated immunization records, and a copy of the previous report card (1st to 7th grades - to show completion of a grade). 

Student Placement: The goal of the school is to create well-balanced class groupings by considering class size, balance of girls/boys, students' needs, academic performance, English Proficiency, learning styles, and peer relationships. Promotion and Retention: Grade level promotion will be based upon standards for each basic subject area as identified in the course of study.  Recommendations for promotion or retention shall be consistent with the state academic standards and school-approved curricula.  Retention of students is a process that is followed when the professional staff, in consultation with the parent, determines it is in the best interest of the student.  Though primary grades are suggested as the most appropriate time, retention may be considered at any grade level. (A.R.S. 15-521)

Home-to-School Connections & Communication

Communication between Staff and Parents/Guardians: Communication between school staff and families is of vital importance to children's education. If a parent or guardian wishes to speak with a teacher, he/she should send a note to the teacher or call the school (between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) to leave a message. Teachers will return messages as soon as possible.

Except in emergency or extenuating circumstances, writing or leaving a message is preferable to trying to speak with teachers at arrival or dismissal time, since teachers need to be attending to students as they start or end the school day. If there is information a teacher should be aware of (e.g., a change in dismissal routine, an event or crisis at home that may be impacting a child), parents are encouraged to send in a note about the situation. Families may call the school by calling (602) 258-4353.

School Messenger and Absence Notification line:  Families will receive school-wide or classroom-related messages via text or voice message.  If your child is absent from school without a note or information from the parents, families will receive a text or voice message.  Please have an updated and active phone number on file in the front office.

Report Cards/Conferences: Progress reports are updated and can be provided by classroom teachers three times yearly for students in grades K-8. Final Report cards for students are given to parents/guardians at the end of the school year. It also includes special area grades such as physical education and computers. 

Parent/Teacher Conferences:  Academia Del Pueblo provides early release for parent-teacher conferences. Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled via video conferencing or in person. 

Visiting Classrooms: Please see the updated visitor policy.  If a parent or guardian needs to speak to a teacher, an appointment must be made first. 

Use of Office Phone: Students may use the phone in the front office to call home when needed.

Awards Ceremony: 

The Awards ceremony is held 1x per quarter, except quarter 4.  Our school’s academic achievement goals are:

1. To recognize students who do excellent or above average work.

2. To provide incentives for students to try and achieve beyond their expected abilities.

The following grading scale may be used to determine “eligibility”:

Principal’s List: K-8^th Grade

* All A’s (Exceeds Expectations)

Honor Roll: K-8th Grade

* A’s and B’s (Meets and/or Exceeds Expectations)

Citizenship:

* Demonstrated outstanding character development during the quarter

Reading/Math/Science, Social Studies achievement:

*Students earning the highest scores in their class for these subject areas

Most Improved:

*Student who has shown academic or social emotional growth.

Safety and Behavior Expectations

Pupil Safety Guidelines

Bicycles & Scooters: Students riding their bikes to school can park their bikes at a staff designated area.

Roller skates/Rollerblades/Heelys: Any roller-skates, rollerblades, or shoes with wheels are not allowed on school grounds.

Skateboarding: Skateboarding is not allowed on school property.  

Building Safety:  

• ADP is a single source entry campus

• ADP utilizes an electronic entry access door to enter the school (staffed at all times)

• ADP is a fully locked campus with key access required through campus gates

• ADP has an active, live camera system with 16 live campus views monitored at all times by 4 team members

• ADP conducts schoolwide lock down drills frequently

• ADP conducts an Active Shooter drills as needed

• ADP is a closed campus. No one is allowed on campus (beyond the front office) without an appointment

• ADP has an Arizona Department of Education approved School Safety Police on campus this school year 

All visitors, volunteers, substitute teachers MUST enter the campus through the main front office.  All visitors, volunteers are NOT ALLOWED on campus without an appointment. Substitute teachers MUST sign and wear a VISITOR/SUB Teacher pass during their stay on campus.  All visitors, volunteers, substitute teachers MUST exit through the main front office, and MUST sign out and return your pass, prior to exiting the building.

Field Trips: Part of the educational program is the inclusion of field trips in the curriculum, when possible. Such trips are taken to enrich the child's classroom experience. All trips are correlated with the educational program and are carefully planned and supervised by the classroom teacher. There are often fees or other expenses. Financial assistance can be available, if necessary. Children are required to bring a signed permission slip to school prior to the day of the excursion.  Students must wear a uniform top on field trips. Parents must complete a background check prior to attending a field trip.

Chaperones: All chaperones must complete and receive approval for the required background check before participating. By serving as a chaperone, the parent or guardian agrees to support the school’s expectations of respect, responsibility, safety, and supervision. The Parent Chaperone Agreement remains valid for one year unless otherwise communicated by Academia del Pueblo.

Safety Crossings:  All Students and parents MUST use the crosswalk.  During student arrival and student dismissal, ALL students and parents must wait for the crosswalk attendant to assist them while using the crosswalk.  

Cell Phones:  As part of a new Arizona law (House Bill 2484), all public and charter schools must now limit student access to cell phones and personal electronic devices during the entire school day. Personal cell phones, smart watches, and other wireless devices are NOT permitted during the school day, including class time, breaks, lunch, passing periods, dismissal, or while enrolled in after-school programming.

Student drop off and pick up:  Students are not to be dropped off by parents prior to 7:30 am. There ARE NO STAFF MEMBERS on duty prior to 7:30 am.  Students MUST be picked up no later than 3:30 pm, unless they are enrolled in the after-school program.  If a student is not picked up by 3:30 pm, per school leadership discretion, the school will contact the local authorities.

Early departure: parents must notify the front office by 2:20 pm. Students may not leave between 2:20 to 2:45 pm.

Cars:  We will NOT allow students to enter a car in the middle of the street.  ALL CARS should park in a safe area for students to disembark. Cars may not block the school bus, pedestrian crossing, or the school's main entrance.  

School Parking Lot and Driveway: There are two visitor parking areas at the front of the school. One is equipped with two handicap parking spots.   There is absolutely no parking in the fire lanes or handicap spots if the driver does not possess a handicap parking permit.

Fire Drills and Lockdown Drills: Academia Del Pueblo takes safety very seriously.  The entire school participates in a fire drill and lockdown drill every month.  If there is an immediate threat or hazard on or near the campus, the school will initiate a LOCKDOWN. A parent alert will be sent to parents notifying them of the lockdown.  PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL OFFICE.

Positive Behavior at Academia del Pueblo

Restorative Justice – Restorative justice promotes a positive, orderly school environment. Students and all members of the school community can learn and practice self-discipline, empathy, and accountability.  Restorative justice is an effective alternative to punitive responses to wrongdoing. Inspired by indigenous traditions, it brings together persons harmed with persons responsible for harm in a safe and respectful space, promoting dialogue, accountability, and a stronger sense of community. Restorative justice is a philosophical framework that can be applied in a variety of contexts -- the justice system, schools, families, communities, and others.

School, After School, and School Transportation Rules and Behavioral Expectations for Common Areas

Be Safe | Be Respectful | Be Responsible

All Common Areas ● Walk facing forward ● Keep hands, feet, & objects to self ● Get adult help for accidents & spills ● Use all equipment & materials appropriately● Use kind words & actions ● Wait for your turn ● Clean up after self ● Follow adults’ directions ● Follow school rules ● Remind others to follow school rules ● Take proper care of all personal belongings & school equipment ● Be honest ● Follow game rules

Cafeteria ● Wait in line patiently ● Sit with feet on floor, bottom on bench, & facing table. ● Enter and exit in an orderly manner. ● 3 students to a table. ● All food consumed in the cafeteria. ● Allow anyone to sit next to you ● Use quiet voices ● Clean up after yourself. ● Use good table manners. ● Follow adult directions ● Raise hand & wait to be excused ● Get all utensils, milk & condiments when 1st going through the line. ● Keep food in the cafeteria.

Playground & Recess ● Walk to & from the playground ● Wait for duty person to enter playground ● Stay within boundaries ● Be aware of activities/ game around you ● No play fighting. Keep hands and feet to yourself. ● What is on the ground stays on the ground ● Play fairly ● Include everyone ● Use hall/bathroom pass for leaving the area

Passing Areas Halls, Breezeways Sidewalks ● Stay to the right ● Allow others to pass ● Walk slowly and safely. ● Avoid the yellow circles. ● Keep your feet on the ground. ● Hold on to athletic ● Hold the door open for the person behind you ● Use quiet voices ● Wait your turn at the water fountain. ● Stay on sidewalks ● Walk in a straight line

Bathrooms ● Keep feet on floor ● Keep water in the sink ● Use soap & water for washing hands ● One person to a stall. ● Put towels in garbage can ● Knock on stall door ● Give people privacy ● Use quiet voices ● Flush toilet after use ● Return to room promptly ● Use a bathroom pass for using the area

Arrival & Dismissal Areas-(bike, racks, Parking lots, ● Use sidewalks & crosswalks ● Wait in designated areas ● Arrive on time ● Leave on time ● Get teacher permission to use the office phone.

Common Instructional Areas (library, computer lab, art, multi-purpose room, gymnasium, ● (See common areas) ● Use quiet voices ● Use hall pass for using the area

Special Events & Assemblies ● Wait for arrival & dismissal signal ● Use audience manners ● Sit on bottom (See common areas)

Restricted Areas (workroom, Principal’s office, main office, staff offices) ● Check in office before entering ● Knock before entering staff room ● Use quiet voices ● Use hall pass for using the area.

Classrooms Each classroom will define their criteria for being safe, being respectful, and being responsible. 

Discipline Interven<on Levels Parents/guardians may be responsible for a student’s damage to, or theB of, school property. Suspension Discipline Matrix

Level 1: 1-2 Verbal Warnings

Level 2: Teacher or classroom appropriate consequence

Level 3: ● Written Student Referral (by teacher) ● Student sent to Front Office/ Admin team. ● Parent Call

Level 4 – TBD by the Principal or Administration Team ● Suspension (long and short term) ● Expulsion ● Restitution ● Campus/Classroom reassignment ● Conference ● Behavior Contract ● Removal from the Bus ● Phone confiscation. 1x -student pickup end of day. 2x- parent pick up. 3x – phone checked-in with the front office daily. ● Removal from Celebrations and/or Promotion Ceremonies ● Depending on circumstances and severity of violation; may include any combination of expulsion, notification of authorities, alternative education placement ● An asterisk () indicates that a police report and/ or CPS report may be filed. ● In addition, depending on the nature of the incident, it may be reported to CRISIS Intervention. 

Parents/guardians may be responsible for a student’s damage to, or theB of, school property. 

Suspension Discipline Matrix 

K-2

Minimum:  ½ Day to Full Day In School Suspension

Repeat: 1-3 Days Out of School Suspension

Maximum: 3-5 Days Out of School Suspension 

Supreme/Last Resort: Expulsion 

3-5

Minimum: 1 Day In School Suspension

Repeat: 3 to 5 Days Out of School Suspension

Maximum: Long Term Suspension 

Supreme/Last Resort: Expulsion 

MS

Minimum: 1 Day Out of School Suspension

Repeat: 3 to 5 Days Out of School Suspension

Maximum: Long Term Suspension 

Supreme/Last Resort: Expulsion 

List of Offenses

Applies to ALL school settings/property, school-sponsored field trips and activities (on and off campus), and the school bus. Dependent upon the nature/extent of the behavior, the consequence will be based on the “Discipline Intervention Levels” chart and the “Suspension Discipline Matrix” detailed previously.

Aggravated Assault An assault (as defined below) accompanied by circumstances that make the situation severe, such as the use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument; causing serious physical injury to another; committing the assault knowing, or having reason to know, the victim is a peace officer or a school staff member engaging in a school-related activity. (A.R.S. 13-1204)

Alcohol (Use/Possession/ Distribution/Sale) Any intoxicating element. Sale or Distribution of Alcohol is the attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring or distributing (with or without compensation) alcohol on School property, at a School sponsored event, or on School-provided transportation.

Arson (Occupied/ Unoccupied) Knowingly damaging a structure or property (either occupied or unoccupied) by causing a fire or explosion. (A.R.S. 13-1704, A.R.S. 13-1701)

Assault (1) Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing any physical injury to another person; (2) intentionally placing another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury; or (3) knowingly touching another person with the intent to injure, insult or provoke such person. (A.R.S. 13-1203)

Bullying Repeated acts over time that involve a real or perceived imbalance of power, with the more powerful child or group attacking those who are less powerful. Bullying may be physical in form (i.e., pushing, hitting, kicking, spitting, stealing); verbal (i.e., making threats, taunting, teasing, name-calling); or psychological (i.e., social exclusion, spreading rumors, manipulating social relationships). Cyber Bullying includes bullying through the misuse of technology. (A.R.S. 13-1202)

Cheating or Plagiarism Includes the act of intentionally using information or property of another, or knowingly sharing academic information to gain an unfair advantage. To steal and pass off the ideas or words of another as one’s own

Dangerous Instruments (Use/Possession/Distribution/Sale) Includes items that are used, attempted or threatened to be used, and/or is readily capable of causing death or physical injury to any person. Dangerous instruments include, but are not limited to, air soft guns, B.B. guns, knife with a blade length less than 2.5 inches, laser pointer, letter opener, mace, paintball gun, pellet gun, razor blade or box cutter, simulated knife, Taser/stun gun, or tear gas. Sale or Distribution of Dangerous Instruments is the attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring or distributing (with or without compensation) dangerous instruments on School property, at a School-sponsored event, or on school-sponsored transportation. (A.R.S. 13-105.12)

Defiance/Disrespect Intentionally resisting or disregarding the authority of District personnel, or treating District personnel or any others with contempt or rudeness. This includes, but is not limited to, the failure to respond to a reasonable request/follow directions, being disobedient or the refusal to identify self when requested to do so.

Disorderly Conduct Any act which substantially disrupts the orderly conduct of a school function, or behavior which substantially disrupts the orderly learning environment. (A.R.S. 13-2904)

Disruption Creating disturbances in class, on campus or at school-sponsored events. Continual or repeated disruptions may warrant more severe consequences

Dress Code The act of non-compliance with the established student dress code guidelines.

Drugs (Use/Possession/Distribution/Sale) Includes the act of using, possessing and/or distributing chemical substances, narcotics, prescription or non-prescription medications, inhalants, controlled substances or substances that students represent to be chemical substances, narcotics or controlled substances. Over-the- counter, non-prescription pharmaceuticals fall into this definition, unless the student has complied with the District’s policy for such medication. Medication for cessation of smoking needs to be checked through the health center; otherwise, it will result in being considered a drug. Supplements and/or nutritional supplements shall be considered a look-a- like drug. The term “drugs” includes anything that looks like drugs or which is presented as drugs. Drug residue is also considered a “drug.” Sale or Distribution of Drugs is the attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring or distributing (with or without compensation) drugs on District property, at a District-sponsored event, or on District-provided transportation. Medical marijuana card holders may be subject to discipline if the student fails to comply with related laws and/or statutes. (A.R.S. 13-3415)

Drug/Tobacco Paraphernalia (Use/Possession/Distribution/Sale) Includes any apparatus or equipment used, including anything that looks like apparatus or equipment used or that can be used, intended for use or designed for use in the act of smoking, injecting, ingesting, inhaling or otherwise introducing into the human body a drug. (Examples include, but are not limited to: rolling papers, pipes, electronic cigarette devices, matches, and lighters.) Also includes any items that are used to store, package, or maintain any drug or tobacco substances. If any such paraphernalia includes drug or tobacco residue, the residue will be considered a drug or tobacco pursuant to the definitions for each. Sale or Distribution of Paraphernalia is the attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring, or distributing (with or without compensation) on District property, at a District Sponsored event or on. District-provided transportation. (A.R.S. 13-3415 F.1.)

Electronic Devices Includes cell phones, hand-held devices, media players or other electronic items. These items must not be displayed for use during the school day from 7:30am to 2:45pm, unless otherwise directed by a staff member for instructional purposes or for use as an educational resource. Electronic Devices may not interfere with the learning, safety or well-being of others. The School is not responsible for the loss, damage and/or theft of any of these types of devices

Endangerment ● Possible report to CRISIS TEAM Recklessly or intentionally creating, engaging in, encouraging or failing to report any potential unsafe, dangerous or hazardous situation. Endangerment can include a risk to the health, safety and welfare of students and staff. Endangerment can include risk of injury, harm and death. Consequences depend on the potential severity of the endangerment. Consequences depend on the direct or indirect involvement of the endangerment, including acting as an accessory. (A.R.S. 13-1201)

Extortion The act of knowingly obtaining or seeking to obtain property or services, or causing or seeking to cause another to act in a manner, by means of a threat to do any of the following: (1) cause physical injury; (2) cause damage to property; (3) engage in illegal conduct; or (4) make false accusations. (A.R.S.13-1804)

Fighting (with weapon/without weapon) Mutual participation in an incident involving physical violence, where there is no major injury

Fire Alarm Misuse/ 911 Misuse ● Intentionally ringing fire alarm when there is no fire. ● Intentionally calling 911 without any real threat or emergency.

Firearm (Use/Possession/ Distribution/Sale) Any weapon that is designed to (or may be readily converted to) expel a projectile by an explosive, or by the action of an explosive. This includes any handguns, pistol, revolver, rifle, shot gun. Any destructive device, which includes: any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas, bombs, grenades, mines, rockets, missiles, pipe bombs, firearms or similar devices designed to explode and capable of causing bodily harm or property damage. Sale or Distribution of Firearms is the attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring or distributing (with or without compensation) on District property, at a District-sponsored event, or on District-provided transportation. (A.R.S. 13-3111, A.R.S. 13-3101)

Forgery/Falsification The act of falsely or fraudulently marking or altering a document or a verbal, written or electronic communication, or any verbal or written communication that is intentionally false or fraudulent (i.e., dishonesty or lying).

Gambling Is to risk money or anything of value on the outcome of anything involving chance.

Gang Activity An activity or affiliation of an ongoing loosely organized association of two or more persons, whether formal or informal, that has a common name, signs, symbols or colors, and whose members engage, either individually or collectively, in negative group activity

Harassment The intentional behavior by a student or group of students that is disturbing or threatening to another individual or group of individuals. Intentional behaviors that characterize harassment include, but are not limited to stalking, hazing, social exclusion, name calling, unwanted physical contact and unwelcome verbal or written comments, photographs graphics, and social media posts

Hate/Bias Related Incidents Any written, oral, physical or electronic communication that one could reasonably conclude was motivated, in whole or in part, by the perpetrator’s bias or attitude against an individual victim or group based on perceived or actual personal characteristics. Examples of bias/hate related incidents include age, ancestry or ethnicity, disability, economic status, gender, height or weight, immigration or citizenship status, marital status, race, religion or religious practices, or sexual orientation.

Hazing Any intentional, knowing or reckless act committed by a student, whether individually or in concert with other persons, against another student, committed in connection with an initiation into an affiliation or membership in any organization, that is affiliated with an educational institution or when the act contributes to a substantial risk of potential physical injury, mental harm or degradation, or causes physical injury, mental harm or personal degradation

Horseplay/Roughhousing/Recklessness Includes rough, boisterous play or behavior.

Indecent Exposure or Public Sexual Indecency Includes, but is not limited to, exposing private areas, consensual participation in any sexual act involving physical contact, touching private areas, depantsing (pulling pants down or off), pulling at another's underclothing. (A.R.S.13-1402, A.R.S.13-1403)

Instigation Includes provoking, antagonizing or failing to report a fight or other dangerous, inappropriate situations. Spreading rumors, harmful gossip, recording/videotaping, social media posting and use of language or gestures that may incite another person or other people to fight are also considered forms of instigation.

Physical Aggression The act of tussles, minor confrontations, pushing, shoving or other physical provocation.

Robbery (with weapon/without weapon) The taking, or attempting to take, any property of another from his person or immediate presence and against his will. Such person threatens or uses force against any person with intent to either coerce surrender of property, or to prevent resistance to such person taking or retaining property.

Sale/Distribution of Personal Property The attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring or distributing (with or without compensation) personal property or services on District property, at a school or District-sponsored event or on District-provided transportation.

Sexual Harassment (No Contact) The unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that denies or limits a student’s ability to participate in or to receive benefits, services, or opportunities in the school’s program. It can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

2026-2027 Due Process Procedures When a student has been referred to an administrator for a viola)on of school regula)ons, the administrator will determine the nature of the viola)on and the resul)ng disciplinary ac)on. The administrator then decides the consequence. ADP will inform the parent in a )mely manner of the consequence. Discipline consequences may include loss of privileges to par)cipate in curricular and extracurricular ac)vi)es, such as but not limited to, performances, field trips, socials, the California trip, and/ or short or long-term suspension. All complaints of student misconduct are treated with confiden)ality in order to protect the privacy and interests of the students involved, including any student-reported allega)on of wrongdoing. Personal informa)on with respect to an incident of student misconduct will not be released to any third party or external

Sexual Harassment (with Contact) Sexual harassment with contact includes unwanted physical contact of non-sexual body parts.

Tardy The failure to be at a designated location at a specified time. This could include arriving to school late or leaving school early. Once a student has more than three tardies (excused or unexcused) in a semester, consequences will be assigned. After three tardies, the only allowable excused tardies are those that have supporting documentation.

Technology Misuse/Computer Tampering The failure to use hardware, software, electronic devices, web pages and networks for the intended educational use or in a manner that causes disruption at a campus or any District facility, including proxy use. Computer Tampering includes, altering, damaging, deleting or destroying a computer, computer hardware or software; introducing a computer contaminant into any computer, or network; causing the disruption of a computer or network. See Electronic Information Systems (EIS) User Agreement. (A.R.S. 13-2316)

Theft (over $100/under $100) The taking of property that belongs to another without personal confrontation, threat, violence or bodily harm. Theft does not include confiscation by school authorities of property not permitted at the school. NOTE: The District is NOT responsible for the loss, theft or damage of ANY personal items brought to school, including but not limited to, musical instruments, radios, headphones, cell phones, iPods, iPads, (any and all electronic devices), bicycles, etc. Any loss, theft or damage to any personal items will not be covered by District liability insurance.

Threat, Bomb Threatening to cause harm using a bomb, dynamite, explosive, or arson-causing device. (A.R.S. 13-2911)

Threat, Chemical or Biological Threatening to cause harm using dangerous chemicals or biological agents. (A.R.S. 13-2911)

Weapons - Other (Use/Possession/Distribution/Sale) Includes (but not limited to) a dagger, dirk, stiletto, knife with a blade at least 2.5 inches in length, pocket knife opened by a mechanical device, iron bar, brass knuckles, chains, billy clubs, Chinese stars, nunchakus or any incendiary devices. Distribution/Sale is the attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring or distributing (with or without compensation) a weapon on District property, at a school or District-sponsored event or on District- provided transportation. (A.R.S. 13-3101)

Weapon – Simulated (Use/Possession/Distribution/Sale) Any simulated firearm made of plastic, wood, metal, or any other material which is a replica, facsimile, or toy version of a firearm or any object, such as a stick or finger, concealed under clothing and is being portrayed as a firearm.

Verbal Abuse/Profanity/Obscenity to an Adult The use of profanity, swearing or any derogatory language written or stated publicly to an adult. (A.R.S. § 15-507)

Vandalism/Destruction of Property (Personal/School) The willful act of defacing or destroying any building, fixture, vegetation or property (personal or school) either intentionally or unintentionally.

Unauthorized Absence/Truancy/ Leaving Campus without Authorization An unexcused absence for at least one class period during the school day or when a student is absent from school during the hours school is in session, unless excused pursuant to A.R.S. § 15-802. Also known as ditching or skipping class/school. Dysart schools are closed campuses which means that students must remain on the school campus, attend all assigned classes and lunch periods unless otherwise authorized by school administration.

Trespass/Loiter When a person enters upon, or in, school property without legal justification or without the implied or actual permission of the administration, or when a person is intentionally present on school grounds, after a reasonable request to leave, does not have any specific reason for being there, or does not have written permission to be there from anyone authorized to grant permission. (A.R.S. 13-2905)

Tobacco (Use/Possession/ Distribution/Sale) Includes use, possession of tobacco products of any kind (i.e., cigarettes, cigars, electronic cigarettes or other similar devices), as well as smokeless tobacco (i.e., dip, chew, snuff, twist). Tobacco residue/butts/etc. will also be considered tobacco under this definition. Sale or Distribution of Tobacco is the attempt or act of offering, selling, trading, procuring or distributing (with or without compensation) on District property, at a District-sponsored event, or on District-provided transportation. (A.R.S. 36-798.03)

NOTE: Possession by any person of tobacco products on K-12 public, charter or private school grounds, buildings, parking lots, playing fields and vehicles, and at off-campus school-sponsored events, is a criminal offense.

Threatening/Intimidating Behavior When a person indicates by word or conduct, the intent to cause physical injury or serious damage to a person or their property. Repeated acts of threatening, intimidating behavior shall be considered Bullying. This includes Death Threats. (A.R.S. 13-1202) 

Due Process Procedures

When a student has been referred to an administrator for a violation of school regulations, the administrator will determine the nature of the violation and the resulting disciplinary action. The administrator then decides the consequence. ADP will inform the parent in a timely manner of the consequence. Discipline consequences may include loss of privileges to participate in curricular and extracurricular activities, such as but not limited to, performances, field trips, socials, the California trip, and/ or short or long-term suspension. All complaints of student misconduct are treated with confidentiality in order to protect the privacy and interests of the students involved, including any student-reported allegation of wrongdoing. Personal information with respect to an incident of student misconduct will not be released to any third party or external agency unless required by law or with the express written consent of the student or the student’s parent or legal guardian. In instances where the student’s action has the potential to endanger his/her safety, the safety of others, or cause a severe disruption in the relationship with ADP and/or its partnerships, the issue may immediately be referred to a disciplinary hearing with a Hearing Officer designated by the Board of Directors, even if the student has not had a previous suspension.

Special Education – Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 

Academia del Pueblo’s Special Education department oversees programming for students with disabilities and maintains compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Academia Del Pueblo provides a free, appropriate, public education (FAPE) to students with disabilities in accordance with state and federal statutes and regulations.

To qualify as a student with a disability under IDEA, a child must be of school age, in need of specially-designed instruction, and must meet the eligibility criteria for one or more of the following physical or mental disabilities, as set forth in the Arizona Revised Statutes: autism; developmental delay; emotional disability; hearing impairment; other health impairment; specific learning disability; mild, moderate, or severe intellectual disability; multiple disabilities; multiple disabilities with severe sensory impairment; orthopedic impairment; speech/language; impairment; traumatic brain injury; and visual impairment. Academia Del Pueblo   engages in identification procedures to ensure that eligible students receive FAPE, including special education and related services, individualized to meet student needs. To identify students who may be eligible for special education, various screening activities are conducted on an ongoing basis. These screening activities include a review of data (cumulative records, enrollment records, health records, report cards, and achievement test scores), hearing and vision screenings, and speech/language screenings. Students who struggle academically or behaviorally may be referred to the school’s Intervention Team for pre-referral interventions. When screening or pre- referral intervention results suggest that a student may have a disability, the school’s special education team seeks parental consent to conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation. Parents who suspect their child may have a disability may request a multidisciplinary evaluation by submitting a request to the school psychologist or administration.

When a student is identified as eligible for special education, the school’s Special Education Multidisciplinary Team will develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) in order to identify the student’s needs for special education and related services. At least annually, the student’s IEP will be reviewed and revised. At least triennially, the student will be re-evaluated to determine if he/she still meets the eligibility criteria as a student with a disability in need of specially designed instruction.

Academia Del Pueblo provides special education services to all eligible students in the Least Restrictive Environment and in alignment with their individual needs. Academia Del Pueblo provides specially designed instruction in academic and behavioral strategies, itinerant vision and hearing services, speech therapy services, occupational therapy services, physical therapy services, counseling services, and other required Related Services for the student to benefit from the special education program.

Procedural Safeguards:

Children with disabilities and their parents are guaranteed procedural safeguards with respect to the provision of free appropriate public education. A copy of the procedural safeguards notice shall be given to the parent upon initial referral and at every annual IEP meeting. If a parent suspects their child of having a disability, from birth to age 22, they should contact the administration.  

FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act): The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act offers students certain rights with respect to their educational records. These rights include: 1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education record within 45 days of the request for access; 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education record that the parent/guardian believes is inaccurate; 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, and 4. The right to file a complaint with the Department of Education. 

Child Find

As a charter school, Academia Del Pueblo meets IDEA’s Child Find obligations by identifying, locating, and evaluating all children with disabilities who are in need of special education and related services within the enrolled population of the school.

Confidentiality of Student Records

Academia Del Pueblo maintains student records for all students, including students with disabilities. In order to release records or personally identifiable information, parental consent or consent of an eligible student who has reached the age of majority under state law must be obtained before any information is released, except as permitted under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Confidentiality of personally identifiable information is protected by Academia del Pueblo at the collection, storage, disclosure, and destruction stages. 

Destruction of any education records of a child with a disability is done in accordance with IDEA regulatory requirements. For more information or to file a complaint, contact the following agencies:

Curriculum

Academia del Pueblo is committed to providing the most current, rigorous, and relevant teaching materials that support every student’s academic success. 

Curriculum: Academia Del Pueblo has a comprehensive elementary school curriculum. All students receive instruction in the Language Arts (reading, speaking, spelling, writing, and handwriting), Mathematics, English, Science, Social Studies, Computer Education, and Physical Education. 

Textbooks: Textbooks devices are furnished by the Academia del Pueblo to the students. However, in case of loss or badly damaged text books/workbooks/library books, devices, the student will be required to pay for repair or loss, at the discretion of school leadership. A notice with the price of the lost or damaged text books/workbooks/library books will be sent home to you via your child. 

Assessments:

• AASA: Arizona assesses all students in grades 3 – 8 on the AASA. This assessment is administered to students in the spring (see calendar for dates).

• AZELLA- Arizona State Assessment for English Language Learners.

• DIBELS: KG to 8th, and some upper grades participate in DIBELS.  Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills

• IXL: 3-8 Academia del Pueblo utilizes IXL to measure student’s progress on a quarterly basis. 

• Classroom Assessments: The teacher conducts student evaluations on a daily/weekly basis. Evaluation is through the examination of student work, observations on student performance, and through more formal evaluations such as tests. 

Care of Books and devices: Any books or other educational materials issued to students must be returned in satisfactory condition. Academia del Pueblo states that no student may be advanced to a higher grade unless the pupil, in addition to receiving a passing grade, returns all borrowed books and materials to the appropriate person and/or reimburses the school for lost or damaged books or materials, or makes other satisfactory arrangements with the principal. All books taken home must be covered to ensure their good condition for the several years they will be in service. Please do not use tape, glue, or adhesive covers on the outside of the books. If glue or adhesive is present on the book, you will be charged the appropriate damage fee.

Care of iPads/Chromebooks:  All student iPads/ Chromebooks must be returned in satisfactory condition at the end of each school day.  iPads must also be used for educational purposes ONLY.  Students who misuse their iPads will receive a loss in iPad privileges. 

Homework: The purpose of homework is to reinforce, supplement, and enrich work done in the classroom to promote competency in skills, and to help students to learn to manage time effectively.  Please contact your child’s teacher about the homework policy.

Purpose of Homework

To supplement and reinforce skills and work done in class. 

To enrich the child's school experience. 

To provide opportunities to use skills/knowledge learned in school in creative ways outside of school. 

To promote individual responsibility. 

To teach ability to budget time and organize one's materials. 

To promote independent study and research skills. 

To help children make up work lost through absence after appropriate instruction has been given in school. 

For all students, reading aloud and/or independent reading is encouraged daily.

Cheating/Plagiarism

Students involved in any way in academic dishonesty could receive no credit for the assignment or test involved in the incident and parents will be contacted. A repeated incident of academic dishonesty in one (1) class can result in a failing grade in the class for the school year.  

Supporting Programs

School wide Title I: Academia del Pueblo is a school wide Title I school in which systematic implementation of vision, priorities, school organization, and governing structure has taken place. Academia del Pueblo has unique history, strengths, traditions, and commitments. In this manner, our school community has reframed our educational program from the data collected on a school wide basis in order to implement changes that are needed. 

TITLE 1 Parent Involvement Policy

Academia Del Pueblo agrees to implement the following statutory requirements:

• The school will put into operation programs, activities and procedures for the involvement of parents in all of its schools with Title I, Part A programs, consistent with section 1118 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Those programs, activities and procedures are planned and operated with meaningful consultation with parents of participating children.

• Consistent with section 1118, the school will work to ensure that the required parental involvement policies meet the requirements of section 1118(b) of the ESEA, and each include, as a component, a school-parent compact consistent with section 1118(d) of the ESEA that is reviewed annually with parents.

• The school will incorporate this parental involvement policy into its LEA plan developed under section 1112 of the ESEA. In carrying out the Title I, Part A parental involvement requirements, to the extent practicable, the school will provide full opportunities for the participation of parents with limited English proficiency, parents with disabilities, and parents of migratory children, including providing information and school reports required under section 1111 of the ESEA in an understandable and uniform format and, including alternative formats upon request, and, to the extent practicable, in a language parents understand.

• If the Title I Plan (or Title I School-wide Plan), developed under section 1112 of the ESEA, is not satisfactory to the parents of participating children, the school district will submit any parent comments with the plan when the school submits the plan to the State Department of Education and provide a rebuttal process or additional meetings,

• if requested.

• The school is governed by the following statutory definition of parental involvement, and expects that its Title I schools will carry out programs, activities and procedures in accordance with this definition:

  • Staff development and parent education opportunities.

  • Providing home support for their child’s education.

  • Participating in school decision-making.

McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act

Academia Del Pueblo complies with the Act and has developed policies and procedures to ensure that identified students receive an equal opportunity for education. All students are required to fill out a McKinney-Vento form upon enrollment. If the student’s living arrangement is both temporary and the result of economic hardship, you may qualify for services under the McKinney-Vento Act. The purpose of this law is to provide academic stability for students of families in transition. You may want to talk with the Homeless Education Liaison if your family’s temporary living arrangement is one of the following:

• You are living with friends or relatives, or moving from place to place because you cannot currently afford your own housing.

• You are living in a shelter or a motel.

• You are living in housing without water or electricity.

• You are living in a place not considered traditional housing, such as a car or a campground.

A student may also qualify as an “unaccompanied youth” if he or she is living with someone who is not a parent or guardian, or if he or she is moving from place to place without a parent or a guardian. Children who qualify under McKinney-Vento have the right to:

• Attend the school they were attending when their family was forced to move to a temporary address because of economic hardship, even if that school is in another school district. The choice must be a reasonable one that is in the best interest of the children involved. Contact the Homeless Education Liaison if you are not sure.

• Stay in this school for the duration of the school year if their families are forced to move to another temporary address because of economic hardship.

• Receive assistance with transportation to attend school while they are in temporary housing

• Start school immediately while people at the school help families obtain school and immunization records or other documents necessary for enrollment.

• Enroll in school without having a permanent address.

• Participate in the same programs and services that other students participate in.

• Receive any applicable Title I services

Homeless Students:  The term “homeless children and youth” means individuals who lack a fixed regular and adequate nighttime residence (A); and (B) includes—(i) children and youths who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement; (ii) children and youths who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings; (iii) children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and (iv) migratory children who qualify as homeless for the purposes of this subtitle because the children are living in circumstances described in clauses (i) through (iii). The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (Subtitle B—Education for Homeless Children and Youth), reauthorized in 2015, ensures educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness 

Academia del Pueblo shall provide an educational environment that treats all students with dignity and respect. Every homeless student shall have access to the same free and appropriate educational opportunities as students who are not homeless. This commitment to the educational rights of homeless children, youth, and unaccompanied youth, applied to all services, programs, and activities provided or made available. Assistance in enrollment, school selection, program participation, transportation services, shall be provided.

TITLE III

English Language Development (ELD): Students who are not proficient in English according to the ELPA21 state test will receive ELD services. English Language Learners (ELL) will be assigned to either an ELD homeroom for their required hours of ELD Instruction, placed in a non-ELD classroom with ILLP (Individual Language Learner Plan), or placed in classrooms identified as reverse ILLPs. Flexible groupings will be utilized to meet the specific needs of students based on their language levels. Classroom composition will depend on the number of students at each grade level. Outside of the four required hours, ELD students will receive content instruction in Math, Science, and Social Studies. The curriculum incorporates the State Board of Education Standards and is comparable in amount, scope, and quality to that provided to English proficient students.  

Health

Food and Nutrition Program: Children spend 12 years of their youth in school developing minds, bodies, and attitudes in preparation for life. They spend six to seven hours daily in school, influenced daily by the experiences that shape lives and ultimately the future. 

The school food service program is an essential part of the total education provided to our students. Based on the premise that well-nourished students are better prepared to learn, the Food Service Department plays a vital role on the educational team of the school. During the school year, the Academia del Pueblo Food Service department is: 

* Providing breakfast and lunch to Academia del Pueblo students.

* Providing breakfast and lunch to the Friendly House preschool program.

* Available to answer nutrition-related questions.

For further information about any aspect of the food and nutrition program, contact the School Office at (602) 258-4353.    

Transportation

ADP will have bus transportation for qualifying students to and from school. Students are reminded that transportation to and from school is a service offered by the school and, as such, is a privilege that must not be abused. Suspension and/or expulsion of transportation privileges will be executed in instances of continued disregard of rules and/or severe behavioral infractions while on the vehicle or at the designated stop. These rules pertain to all students involved in all bus activities (i.e., to and from school, field trips). See attached rules and consequences for transportation privileges. 

School Bus Video Camera Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to safeguard student privacy while providing for their safety and security.

1. General Statement of Policy

The Academia del Pueblo Advisory School Board recognizes the use of bus cameras on school buses as an important tool in the management of the security and safety of students and staff as an educational tool to enhance the performance of all bus staff. Student data privacy must be maintained in accordance with all federal and state statutes. 

1. School Buses

   1. Academia del Pueblo utilizes digital video recording equipment in all school buses for the security and safety of students and staff, as an educational tool to enhance the performance of all bus staff, and for the purpose of monitoring the behavior of students. Video recordings are used to support the bus driver’s referral reports and enforce the consequences of the School Bus Safety Policy. 

   2. Publication in the Academia del Pueblo student handbook, listed under Bus Transportation & Safety, shall serve as notification to students, parents/guardians, and staff that digital video surveillance exists on all school buses and that those video recordings may be used in student disciplinary proceedings. This notification includes a copy of 

      1. the school’s policy on bus conduct. A signature page will be included as acknowledgment of receipt by parents and students. In addition, a prominent notice is placed in each bus stating, “This bus is equipped with a video monitoring system. Your conversations and/or actions may be recorded.”

         
         

      2. Video recordings will only be viewed by the school Principal (and/or designee), Transportation Manager (and/or designee), Assistant Principal (and/or designee), bus staff, and/or other appropriate law enforcement agencies. Whenever a parent or guardian disputes or challenges a bus discipline report, and the parent’s child was video recorded, it will be the responsibility of the school principal (and/or designee to review the recording.

      3. The video recording will be used by the principal to assist in determining whether or not the incident actually occurred, and if so, the severity of the incident. 

      4. Neither the parent nor guardian of the student who has been video recorded, nor the student, will be allowed to view the video recording in accordance with data privacy laws, unless the student is the only subject of the recording or the principal has obtained written permission from the parents/guardians of all other students on the video recording from them to be viewed. Upon written request, the school district will provide a written summary of the recorded incident(s) of a student pictured on a video to the student’s parents/guardians. 

      5. The Transportation Manager will be responsible for the security of all bus digital video equipment and for the handling of video files. If there is a request by the principal to view a recording, the Transportation Manager will remove the digital hard drive from the recorder for safeguarding until a meeting can be arranged. 

      6. Videotape will be retained by the school’s transportation department for a period of four (4) weeks, or until the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings in which the videotape is used for evidence. 

      7. Parents, staff, or other entities have a maximum of two (2) weeks to bring forward any complaints requiring the viewing of recorded videotape. 

Tax Credit Donations

Arizona law ARS 43-1089.01 enables taxpayers a tax credit contribution of up to $400.00 per calendar year if filing status is Married, filing Joint Return; $200.00 per calendar year if filing status is Single or Head of Household; and $200.00 per calendar year if filing status is Married, filing separate return — for contributions that fund extracurricular activities in public schools. A tax credit is a full refund, not a deduction. 

Contributions eligible for a tax credit are donated directly to schools, not to the state or the school district. To participate, simply travel to the closest school site, write a check made out to your school of choice, fill out the proper paperwork, and a receipt will be issued for tax purposes.  You can make your check out to: Academia del Pueblo, a division of Friendly House, 201 E. Durango St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.  We thank you in advance for your contribution!

Student Representation

Student body representatives are elected from each classroom in grades 3^rd – 8^th. Student Council representatives are new each year, so more interested students have the opportunity for this experience. Members of the Student Council represent their classmates, bringing up areas of concern, and participating in decision-making with the principal related to a variety of issues and ideas.

The Student Council hopes to promote good citizenship, leadership opportunities, sharing student needs and opinions, and good communication throughout the school. The efforts of the Academia del Pueblo Student Council are directed toward promoting maximum school spirit throughout our school community.

Dress Code

The Uniform Dress Code is described below: Boys/Girls

Shirt Boys /Girls 

K-5^th 

* School shirt burgundy Polo.

* Winter clothing: Solid color sweater.  

Shirt Boys /Girls 

6^th- 8^th  

* School Shirt Gray polo 

**Winter clothing: Solid color sweater. 

Boys 

Pants/Shorts 

K– 8^th 

* Plain navy-blue pants or shorts (no jeans or sweatpants are allowed).

* All shorts, pants must be of reasonable length – to the knees, size, and hemmed. No large or baggy pants allowed.

Girls Skirts/Pants/

Shorts K -8^th 

* Skirts and shorts must be of reasonable length – to the knees/below the mid-thigh, size, and hemmed. 

*All skirts can be Burgundy plaid or navy blue.

*All shorts/ pants must be navy blue (no jeans, sweatpants, or leggings allowed).

Shoes 

K- 8^th 

* Closed toe shoes must be worn at all times. (No slippers, slides, sandals or crocs are allowed) 

* Cleats are allowed for sporting activities.

*Please note: Hoodies, sweaters, and caps are allowed, however, students are NOT allowed to have the hoods on their heads while on campus.  Caps are allowed outdoors ONLY.

Dress Down Days

Dress down days are a time for students to wear their favorite clothing from home.  We celebrate that with them, but please be mindful of the rules on dress down days. These rules apply to both boys and girls:

• Jeans – no ripped jeans.  Or, if a student wears jeans with rips above the knees they must have leggings/tights underneath.

• Shorts/skirts/dresses- should not be above the length of their fingers.

• Shirts – must have sleeves. Must cover the entire torso.  No spaghetti straps, off the shoulder.

• Shirts – No logos affiliated with drugs, gangs, nudity, violence.

• No caps or bandanas.

• No flip flops, CROCS, SLIDES (students and staff)

• Students dressed out of code will receive a phone call home or a note explaining why they are out of code.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992 Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: Call: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Acknowledgement and Verification Form

Academia del Pueblo | Friendly House

Student & Family Handbook 2026–2027

As the parent or guardian of the student named below, I hereby acknowledge receipt, review, and understanding of the following documents and policies:

1. Student & Family Handbook

I acknowledge I have reviewed the complete Student & Family Handbook, which outlines school policies, discipline procedures, attendance expectations, dress code, rights and responsibilities, and due process procedures.

2. Electronic Information Systems (EIS) User Agreement

I understand and agree to the expectations and acceptable use policies related to technology, school-issued devices, and the internet. This includes consequences for misuse and the school’s monitoring rights regarding email and internet activity.

3. Student Media Consent and Release

Authorization for Academia del Pueblo and its representatives to photograph, record, or feature my child in promotional and educational media, as outlined in the Media Consent and Release policy. I release the school from any liability related to the use of such media.

4. Cell Phone & Wireless Device Policy (HB2484 Compliance)

I acknowledge the school’s cell phone and personal device policy during the school day in compliance with House Bill 2484. I understand the progressive consequences for violations and agree to support enforcement of this policy.

5. AI Use Guidelines and Agreement

I understand that approved AI tools (Magic School and Diffit) may be used in classroom instruction. I agree that:

• My child will not enter any personal or identifiable information into AI tools.

• Use of AI tools is at the discretion of the teacher and must comply with FERPA, COPPA, and ADP academic integrity policies.

• Any misuse of AI tools, including for cheating or harassment, may result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion.

Failure to return this signed form within ten (10) school days from the date of distribution will be deemed constructive acknowledgment and implied consent to the above policies. In such cases, the school will proceed under the presumption that the parent/guardian has accepted the terms and conditions of the policies referenced herein.