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Todd Academy, Inc.
Student Handbook
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Mission Statement
Todd Academy, Inc.'’s mission is to provide high-ability, gifted and talented, intellectually responsive students an environment to acquire the skills and education necessary to achieve their goals. By using Todd Academy, Inc.'’s Montessori atmosphere and scholastically challenging curriculum, we nurture inquisitive minds and foster a lifetime love of learning. Todd Academy, Inc. utilizes continuous and individualized assessments and diverse instruction methods to combine the student’s goals and talents into a life plan that encourages a future of achievements and contributions to his/her family, community, and the world.
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Table of Contents
Section I: About Todd Academy, Inc.
2010-2011 School Calendar
Weather 4
Class Schedule 5
Grade Point Average/Grading Scale 5
Classification of Students 6
Graduation Requirements 6
Drop Off/Pick-Up 8
Visitors 9
Parent/Teacher Conference 9
Gifts, Tips, and Donations 9
Non-Discrimination 9
Section II: General Policies and Rules 9
Transportation Responsibility 9
Students Who Drive 10
Textbooks/Library Books 10
Intentional Property Damage and Injury 10
Lockers 10
Lunch and Food 10
Nurse and Medications 10
Physical Education Uniform 11
Community Service 11
Computer 11
Telephone and Cellular Phones 11
School Clothing and Appearance 12
Audio/Visual and Electronic Devices 13
Weapons/Devices That Could Cause Harm 13
Possession or Use of Substances of Abuse 13
Tobacco 13
Field Trips 14
Extracurricular Activities 14
Performances 14
Lost and Found 14
Section III: Emergency and Fire Safety 14
Fire Drill 14
Fire Safety 15
Tornado 15
Emergency Evacuation 15
Section IV: Attendance 15
Attendance Responsibility 15
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Absence – Excused 15
Absence – Appointments 16
Absence – Prearranged 16
Absence – Unexcused 17
Chronic Absenteeism 17
Consequences for Chronic Absenteeism 17
Tardiness 17
Truancy 18
Habitual Truancy 18
Section V: Behavioral Rules and Discipline 18
Student Behavior Expectations 18
Behavior in the Classroom 18
Behavior in the Corridors 18
Fighting 19
Language 19
Bullying 19
Hazing 19
Sexual Harassment 20
Gang Activity 20
Overt Student Affection 20
Filing False Emergency Reports 20
Discipline 20
Discipline Procedures 21
After School Detention 22
Saturday School 22
Suspension Defined 22
Expulsion Defined 22
Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion 22
Student Handbook Confirmation Page 24
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Section I
ABOUT TODD ACADEMY, INC.
2010-2011 School Calendar
Classes Begin - All students return
August 19, 2010 Thursday
IUPUI Classes Begin August 23, 2010 Monday
Labor Day Observed - No Classes Sept. 6, 2010 Monday
Thanksgiving Break November 24-28, 2010 Wed-Sunday
Classes Resume November 29, 2010 Monday
Christmas Break December 17-January 5, 2011 Sat-Wednesday
Classes Resume January 6, 2011 Thursday
Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Observed - No Classes
January 17, 2011 Monday
Spring Break - No Classes March 11-20, 2011 Saturday - Sunday
Classes Resume March 21, 2011 Monday
Memorial Day Observed - No classes May 30, 2011 Monday
End of school Year June 3, 2011 Friday
Class is in session each school day from 9:00 AM to 3:45 PM. The building is open from 8:00 AM until 6:00 PM every school day. After school clubs are from 4:00-5:00 and are not included in after school care.
Weather Policy
Todd Academy, Inc. will either hold school or not due to bad weather. There will not be any 1 or 2-hour delays, etc. If we cancel school for the day, you will be notified by phone no later than 7:00 am. If the weather is questionable and you have not received a phone call, please proceed safely. Anyone arriving late due to weather will not be penalized.
Keep in mind that if we do cancel school at Todd Academy, Inc., this does not guarantee that classes at IUPUI will be cancelled. The usual policy at IUPUI is to leave the decision to cancel class or not up to the instructor. It is student’s responsibility to determine if he/she will need to be at their college class.
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CLASS SCHEDULE
Time
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
9:00-9:55 1st Period
5 min. Passing Period
10:00-10:55 2nd Period
5 min. Passing Period
11:00-11:55 3rd Period
5 min. Passing Period
12:00-12:25 Lunch
5 min. Passing Period
12:30-1:25 4th Period
5 min. Passing Period
1:30-2:25 5th Period
5 min. Passing Period
2:30-3:30 6th Period
3:30-3:45 Clean-up and Locker Check
Dismissal at 3:45
4:00-5:00 After-School Clubs and Help Sessions
5:00-6:00
Notes:
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Grade Point Average
Todd Academy, Inc. will assign a grade to most schoolwork. If a grade is not assigned, work will be denoted with either pass/fail, satisfactory/unsatisfactory, incomplete. An incomplete (I) will be assigned when an excused absence or medical condition prevents completion of the school work. The following is the general grading scale, to be used at the instructor’s discretion.
Grading Scale:
General Studies: College
A+ 4.00 5.00
A 4.00 5.00
A- 3.67 4.47
B+ 3.33 3.97
B 3.00 3.50
B- 2.67 3.06
C+ 2.33 2.64
C 2.00 2.25
C- 1.67 1.67
D+ 1.33 1.33
D 1.00 1.00
D- 0.67 0.67
F 0.00 0.00
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Classification of Students
High school students are classified into grade levels by the following credit hour separations:
Freshman - Less than 12 credit hours
Sophomore- 13-24 credit hours
Junior - 25-36 credit hours
Senior - 36+ credit hours
Credits are not given for classes that receive an F.
Graduation Requirements
Students are classified by grades and credit hours earned toward CORE 40 completion. The following scale is in use by the State of Indiana Department of Education:
Course and Credit Requirements:
English/Language Arts
8 credits Including a balance of literature, composition
and speech.
Mathematics
6 credits 2 credits: Algebra I
2 credits: Geometry
2 credits: Algebra II
Or complete Integrated Math I, II, and III for 6 credits. All students must complete a math or physics course in their junior or senior year.
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Science
6 credits 2 credits: Biology I
2 credits: Chemistry I or Physics I or
Integrated Chemistry
-Physics
2 credits: any Core 40 science course
Social Studies 6 credits
2 credits: U.S. History
1 credit: U.S. Government
1 credit: Economics
2 credits: World History/Civilization
Geog/History of the World
Directed Electives 5 credits
World Languages
Fine Arts
Career-Technical
Physical Education 2 credits
Health and Wellness 1 credit
Electives* 6 credits
(Career Academic Sequence Recommended)
40 Total State Credits Required
core40.pdf
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Homework, Participation, and Academic Trouble Policy
Todd Academy, Inc. attempts to engage the student in the work and projects necessary for classroom success. Homework will be given for class preparation, project completion and unfinished daily work. It must be taken seriously, completed and turned in on time for the student’s own benefit. If the student is having trouble completing a project by the deadline, he/she should communicate with the teacher. If the work is constantly late, grade penalties or other penalties may be received.
A student is deemed to be in Academic Trouble when they have 3 or more missing assignments (work that is past due) without any arrangements in place to make up the work. Todd Academy, Inc. will make a more than reasonable attempt to help the student get back on track. If student refuses help in any way and is unwilling to get caught up in class/classes, his or her Enrollment Contract may be terminated.
Student Records Policy
Todd Academy, Inc. will maintain comprehensive student records. These will include:
Transcripts
Testing results
Attendance
Medical profile, including shots and vaccinations
Emergency information
Awards and Achievements
Behavioral issues, along with other possible issues
Requests for transcripts or transfers should be made in person or by written request. Tuition and fees must be paid up to date before this request will be honored.
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Drop Off and Pick Up Policy
Students who are not participating in before/after school care can be dropped off at school no earlier than twenty (20) minutes before the start of the school day and may be picked up no later than 5:15 pm. Students are required to sign in and out when arriving and leaving the school building. If the student is tardy to school, or is leaving or arriving during the day from an appointment, a Parent/Guardian or another person from the Authorized Pick-Up List must sign them in or out of school. Todd Academy, Inc. will maintain a list, provided by parents, of persons who are authorized to pick up their student from school. Identification will be requested of anyone the school staff is unfamiliar with and any changes to the authorized list should be communicated to the Executive Assistant or other appropriate school staff as soon as possible. The student will not be allowed to leave school with anyone who is not on the authorized list.
Students MUST BE dropped off and picked up in the Drop Off Zone. This zone will be physically monitored by school staff for the twenty (20) minutes before school and the periods from 3:45 pm to 4:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 5:15 pm. If you plan to drop off or pick up your student during any other times, please contact the office to make arrangements. A map of the Drop Off Zone and the flow of traffic to and from will be sent to all Parent(s)/Guardian(s) at the beginning of the school year.
Visitors
All visitors to Todd Academy, Inc. are required to sign in on the entry log at the main entrance. Visitors who do not sign the entry log will not be permitted to go beyond the main entrance. Any visitors who disrupt classrooms or standard operation of the school will be asked to leave, and, if they refuse, will be escorted out either by staff or, in extreme cases, the police. Guests of students will not be permitted during school hours unless prior approval has been granted.
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Parent/Teacher Conference Policy
Todd Academy, Inc. has an open door policy to parents and students and considers the student’s education to be a partnership between us. As such, we expect to have a Parent/Teacher Conference approximately one month after the start of school. This conference can be in person or by phone, but is necessary to make the partnership run smoothly and to make sure the expectations of all parties are being achieved. These conferences will take place by appointment either before or after school.
Gifts, Tips, and Donations
The donation of books, items of value and technology to Todd Academy, Inc. must be reviewed for acceptance by the Executive or Associate Director.
Cash donations that are contributed for a specific purpose must be approved by the Executive or Associate Director before they will be accepted.
Staff members and members of the Board of Directors may not accept gifts of any kind for personal gain or with the intended use of swaying grades or policy. Items of value less than $20.00 and intended either to celebrate a birthday or holiday may be accepted without penalty.
Non-discrimination
It is the policy of the Todd Academy, Inc. not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age or disability in the educational programs or employment policies as required by the Indiana Civil Rights Act (Per Indiana Code), Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Equal Pay Act of 1973, Title IX (1972 Educational Amendments), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. In addition, Todd Academy, Inc. will not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation.
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Section II
GENERAL POLICIES AND RULES
Transportation Responsibility
In order for the learning environment to be effective, students MUST attend class and be on time. This applies to both college classes and classes taken on the grounds of Todd Academy, Inc. If for any reason this may be compromised due to scheduling or an emergency, please notify the Administration and arrangements will be made so that students attend all their classes if possible.
Students Who Drive
All students who drive to school will be required to park in the designated parking area. All students who drive will be required to purchase parking permits from the office.
Textbooks/Library Books
Except for workbooks, all textbooks and library books are on loan to the student and must be returned to Todd academy, Inc. at the end of the time it is being used or the end of the school year. Parents of the students will be financially responsible for any book lost or damaged.
Intentional Property Damage and Injury
Todd Academy, Inc. will hold parents of students financially and legally responsible for the intentional destruction of property (not belonging to the student) and/or physical injury inflicted by the student to another person.
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Lockers
Each student is assigned one (1) locker, and they are not to change lockers for any reason unless the administration has given explicit instruction to do so. Book bags and other personal effects such as purses and coats are not to be carried to classes or left lying on the floor. If a coat or jacket does not fit in a locker, it is to be hung on the ends of the racks. Failure to follow these rules causes a safety and fire hazard. If the fire marshal or any other such inspector inspects the building, and the school is cited for failure to follow these rules, the student and the family of that student will be responsible for the fine, no matter the monetary amount.
The use of a locker by a student does not eliminate the fact that all the lockers on the grounds are property of Todd Academy, Inc. and as such are subject to the rules and regulations of the school, as well as all federal and state laws. State laws regarding the search of lockers can be found under Indiana Code 20-33-8-32. Students will be held responsible for the contents of their lockers and as such should not allow anyone else access to their locker or the contents therein. The school will retain access to lockers should it be needed or warranted to gain access to the contents at any time.
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Lunch and Food
Todd Academy, Inc. is a closed campus (students are not allowed to leave the school grounds) for lunch. Students are required to bring lunch daily. If a student forgets his/her lunch the parents will be called.
Todd Academy, Inc. believes that kids are growing and should be able to have snacks available at times other than lunch. Students are allowed to have snacks and drinks in class and throughout the building with the exception of the History room and the Computer Lab. Snacks should be healthy and are not considered a replacement for a healthy, well-rounded lunch. Students are not allowed to be late to a class while obtaining snacks or drinks and are not allowed to leave a class to get snacks and drinks.
Nurse and Medication Policy
Students must have permission from the supervising instructor (in the case of a passing period) before they will be admitted to the nurse’s office. All medications, regardless of whether it is prescription or non-prescription, must be taken in the nurse’s office, and verified by the supervising employee. Students must have their medication permission form signed to allow the nurse/designated employee to dispense Tylenol, Ibuprofen, antacids, and an Epi pen if needed. Medicines will not be given to students by anyone but the school nurse or a designated employee. Any additional non-prescription medication must be sent in the original container and accompanied by a note from the parent. Prescription medicine must be sent in the original container and come accompanied by a signed note from the parent or legal guardian. Unused medicine will only be sent home with the student only with the written permission of the student’s parent. Students will be sent home if they have a temperature of 100 degrees or above, if they are vomiting or have diarrhea. Students should not return to school unless they have been fever free for a minimum of 24 hours. After 3 days of absences, a doctor’s note is required. Occasionally an exception will be made for long term medical conditions requiring constant monitoring.
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Physical Education Uniform
Todd Academy, Inc. does not require a Physical Education uniform; however, students will be expected to dress in both clothing and shoes appropriate to the activity being undertaken in P.E. class. Sneakers, shorts/sweat pants, and appropriate tops should be kept on the premises at all times.
Community Service
It is the goal of Todd Academy, Inc. to have a well-rounded student body. This requires participation in the communities the students live in. With that in mind we have a stated requirement of 10 hours per month of community service per lower grades students and 20 hrs. for the high school students, to be kept in a journal and turned into the Executive Director monthly. These hours may include projects we do as a class or school, church or scouting sponsored projects and individual and/or family activities of the student’s own choosing. A supervisor or parent signature or initials is required in the student’s journal.
Computer
It is the practice of Todd Academy, Inc. to have computers available for appropriate classroom usage. Papers, projects and other research will be required for some assignments. Although reasonable care will be used at all times to ensure that inappropriate content is unavailable, it is not possible to guarantee that all content accessed will be proper. Should a breach occur, students are to notify the teacher or other staff member immediately and the site will be blocked. Students caught exploring inappropriate sites will lose school computer privileges. Students are also not to use another student’s password to sign in for any reason, a violation which would also result in the loss of computer privileges. The time period the privileges will be revoked will be determined on a case-by-case basis and assessed by the depth of the offense. If privileges are revoked, parents will be notified.
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Telephones and Cellular Phones
The telephones in the office are for business purposes only. Office and classroom phones are to be used by students only when deemed necessary by the office personnel and/or the supervising instructor. Cell phones are not to be used during the school day. If a parent needs to contact a student, regardless of circumstances, that parent is to call the office and in case of a true emergency, the student will be contacted to speak with the parent, otherwise the message will be relayed to the student at the next passing period.
Students are not permitted to use or activate cellular telephones during school hours. The phone is to be turned OFF, and should not be visible. On the first offense, the student will be assigned an after-school detention, and the device will be confiscated until the end of the day. On the second offense, the student will be assigned a Saturday School and the device will be confiscated until a parent comes to school to get it.
School Clothing and Appearance
In general, the rule for Todd academy, Inc.’s dress code is “cover up the cracks and underwear.”
Mrs. Todd summarizes it this way; “I don’t want to see rear cracks, cleavage or front cracks, I don’t want to see bras, boxers or other underwear. Dress appropriate for the work of the day and the environment you are working in.”
More specifically appropriate dress is a reflection of an individual and the school.
1. No skin is to be exposed between the waist of the pants or dress and the bottom of the upper garment (shirt, blouse, or sweater). (No midriffs showing; neither boys nor girls.) This rule also applies to tube tops and tube dresses.
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2. Abbreviated tops will not be acceptable as proper school dress. This includes tank tops, spaghetti strapped shirts and basketball jerseys.
3. Shorts and skirts are to be worn no higher than mid thigh.
4. Hats, wearing the hood on sweatshirts, and sunglasses are also considered unacceptable.
5. Pants are to be worn near the waist so that undergarments, skin or shorts are not exposed. No large holes, holes exposing inappropriate skin or underwear or exceeding the length of the shoe bottoms are allowed. Extra long pants are a stair hazard and are not allowed.
6. Any clothing that is immodest to the extent that it interferes with the instructional process is prohibited.
7. Boards of Health laws require all people to wear shoes in a public building. During the winter months or when the weather is wet, shoes should be removed in the lobby and replaced with dry shoes or slippers. Wet shoes should be placed on the racks provided.
8. Excessively large chains or large spiked jewelry that could be considered weapons are not to be worn in the building.
9. Offensive or suggestive pictures/slogans on clothing are not acceptable. Dress that advertises or promotes the use of alcohol, tobacco products, or controlled substances is prohibited. Students must change the inappropriate clothing before they will be allowed in class.
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First Offense: The student must change the clothing and a disciplinary report will be entered into the computer.
Second Offense: The student must change the clothing and a detention will be assigned. The parent will be contacted by phone.
Progressive disciplinary action will be taken for continued violations.
Audio/Visual and Electronic Devices
Students are not permitted to bring to school and/or use electronic devices (e.g. hand held video games, laser pointers) during school hours. Students are permitted to listen to CD, IPOD or MP3 players during lunchtime in the lunch rooms/commons areas. Students may use these devices in the classroom only with teacher permission. HOWEVER, STUDENTS ARE DISCOURAGED TO BRING THESE ITEMS TO SCHOOL DUE TO PROBLEMS WHICH MAY ARISE DUE TO THEFT.
VIOLATIONS: On the first offense, the student will be assigned an after school detention and the device will be confiscated until the end of the day. On the second offense, the student will be assigned to a Saturday School and the device will be confiscated until a parent comes to school to get it.
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Weapons/Devices That Could Cause Harm
Students are not to bring to school any device that could be used as a weapon. (This does not include small pocket/Swiss Army multi-tool knives less than the width of the palm of the hand, cuticle files and scissors and kitchen knives used for cutting up lunch. These items are considered tools and are to be used as intended.) This includes but is not limited to things such as mace, pepper spray, stun guns, etc. that may ordinarily be considered protective devices.
Possession or Use of Substances of Abuse
Students are prohibited from possessing or using tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, or controlled substances in any form on school property. First offense for a student possessing such an item in any form on school grounds, or at any school activity, will result in one Saturday School and parent notification. Further offenses will be dealt with accordingly, including but not limited to suspension, expulsion, and criminal charges.
Tobacco
INDIANA CODE
Indiana Code that applies to use and possession of tobacco by students:
1. A person less than 18 years old commits a Class C infraction if they purchase, accept or possess tobacco. The fine is up to $500.
2. Selling or distributing tobacco to a person less than 18 years old is a Class C infraction. The person who sells or distributes the tobacco can be fined up to $500.
3. Anyone violating these laws will be reported to the appropriate legal authorities and suspended from Todd Academy, Inc. Repeated offenses will lead to expulsion.
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4. All Todd Academy, Inc. students agree, per the Code of Conduct, that they will refrain from possession, use and/or distribution of all tobacco, alcohol, and/or other products deem harmful to students by the Board of Directors of Todd Academy, Inc.
Field Trips
Field Trips will be part of the Todd Academy, Inc. curriculum. Students are expected to dress appropriately. Some field trips for P.E. are expected. Students will all go and participate unless an appropriate note has been received from their parent.
Some field trips will require extra fees. Some will require an extra permission slip. However, most field trips will be covered under your general field trip permission slip included in your annual admission packet.
Once or twice a year, extended educational field trips will be taken. These field trips have the same behavior requirements as all others. However, additional rules may apply and will be covered separately.
Extracurricular Activities
Todd Academy, Inc. students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities both organized by and outside of Todd Academy, Inc. Students are considered representatives of Todd Academy, Inc. even though they are participating in an extracurricular activity. As such behavior, sportsmanship, ethics, and personal conduct should be exemplary.
Performances
Periodically the students of Todd Academy, Inc. will be involved in performances. These may be individual, group, musical, theatrical, or vocal. All students will be required to participate and attend, since the ability to conduct oneself appropriately in front of a group is essential for success in both education and career.
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Lost and Found
Items of value that are found are expected to be turned in to lost and found, which is located in the main office. The description and the date that the item is found will be logged by the staff member overseeing the lost and found. Students that find their lost articles in Lost and Found are required to write the date that they retrieve the item next to the description of the item in question and sign for it. Unclaimed items at the end of the year will be disposed of, donated, or become the property of Todd Academy, Inc. and used in the daily operations of the school.
Section III
EMERGENCY AND FIRE SAFETY
Fire Drill
Fire drills are occasionally run to ensure that each student knows the exit procedures and can follow them correctly. Fire evacuation plans are posted throughout the building and students are expected to know the evacuation routes before any alarm sounds. Students are expected to exit the building quietly and methodically. Students are to remain with their supervising instructor until they are released to return to the building. In case of a true fire, students will be directed to meet at our off-site location.
Fire Safety
Todd Academy, Inc. strives to maintain a safe and orderly premise. All extinguishers are to be maintained and inspected no less than, annually. Fire inspections by the Fire Marshall are to be conducted at least annually. Notification to Red Cross and the nearest emergency shelter are to be given and updated annually to make sure that Todd Academy, Inc. is continually mapped for emergency services.
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Tornado
If a tornado has been sighted in the area, students will be notified to proceed to the lower floor and huddle close to the innermost wall. Attendance will be taken and students are required to stay with the instructor who was supervising them when the alarm sounded. No dismissals or class changes will take place until after the threat has passed.
Emergency Evacuation
In cause of an emergency in which Todd Academy, Inc. is unsafe or in which students must be evacuated to a shelter for safety our off-site location is:
St. Mary’s Catholic Church
(Corner of New Jersey and Vermont Streets)
317 N New Jersey St
Indianapolis, IN 46204
317-637-3983
Section IV
ATTENDANCE
Attendance Responsibility
Attendance is the responsibility of both the student and the parent. Poor attendance, whether excused or not, will ultimately result in poor grades and school work due to the ultimate lack of instruction.
Absence - Excused
EXCUSED ABSENCE(s) are defined by Indiana Code 20-33-2-14 through 17.2 and by Todd Academy, Inc. as the following:
1. Illness, either mental or physical, or prearranged appointments for healthcare. The office must be informed of appointments and the time a student will be in to school or picked up for an appointment at least one week ahead of time, except where it is not feasible. Students will be sent home if they have diarrhea, vomit, or have a fever above 100°F. For a student to return to school, they must be fever free for a minimum of 24 hours.
2. A death in the family. If the death is that of an immediate family member, a reasonable absence time will be established with the Administration
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For an extended family member, the two (2) day maximum excused absence is allowed unless the funeral is out of town. Please contact the administration for any extenuating circumstances.
3. Religious observances, church attendance, or religious instruction as required by the student’s individual religion.
4. Emergency circumstances that are entirely beyond the control of the student and/or the student’s family, and is entirely at the discretion at the Administration.
5. Service as a page for or as an honoree of the general assembly.
6. Service on precinct election board or for political candidates or parties.
7. Witness in a judicial proceeding.
8. Duty with Indiana National Guard.
9. Duty with Indiana wing of Civil Air Patrol.
Any student that is absent for three (3) consecutive days will require a note from a licensed physician that must be submitted to the Administration upon return to school.
More than eight (8) days missed of excused absences in a quarter or fifteen (15) days in a semester could lead to a loss of grade or loss of academic credit. This will be entirely left to the discretion of the director.
Students will be allowed two (2) days to complete make up work that was missed during their absence, unless homework or projects were assigned prior to the absence. Those assignments will be expected on the original date that they were due. In the event that the student is hospitalized, then a reasonable timeline to complete work will be decided and agreed upon by the administration.
Unexcused absences will result in a required conference between the student, the student’s family, and the Executive Director.
Note: All of the aforementioned reasons for an excused absence will count in the total number of absences allowed in a semester or trimester (see Chronic Absenteeism).
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Absence - Appointments
When a student must leave school early for a special appointment, such as a doctor’s appointment, students must present proper notification from the parent/guardian by note, phone, or in person before the student will be allowed to leave the school grounds. All students must sign in and/or out when leaving and/or arriving. If time permits, a student should attend classes before and after an appointment. To be excused a student must bring written confirmation from the appointment when he/she returns to school.
Absence - Prearranged
It is imperative that students have good attendance to have an opportunity for academic success. Occasionally, a unique situation arises whereby students are required to be absent from school rather than for typical reasons. On these occasions, the Executive Director may grant a prearranged absence if the request is appropriate and within timelines. A prearranged absence request form must be completed and submitted to the administration no less than five (5) school days in advance of the requested absence. A student may use no more than five (5) school days of prearranged absence per year. After administrative approval, course work should be arranged and completed in advance or given to the appropriate teacher immediately upon return. Failure to arrange an absence five (5) days in advance will result in denial of the request and make up work will not be accepted for credit. Sophomores and Juniors may use three (3) of their prearranged absence days per school year for college visitations. These absences will be approved through the main office if all requirements are met.
Prearranged absences do count in the total number of absences allowed in a semester or trimester.
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Absence - Unexcused
If a student is absent from any class(es), even with the knowledge or consent of a parent/guardian, the student will not be permitted to make up work for credit for that day if the absence has:
1. Failed, in the judgment of the administration, to meet the conditions for an excused absence, or
2. Not been properly reported to the school or properly cleared by the parent/guardian.
Chronic Absenteeism
A student will be considered to have chronic absenteeism from Todd Academy, Inc. if he/she has a combination of eight (8) excused or unexcused absences in one quarter or fifteen (15) per semester.
Consequences for Chronic Absences
Any combination of fifteen (15) excused or unexcused absences during a semester may result in the removal from class and a loss of credit for that semester. Absences mandated by a member of the Administration, such as suspension, will not count toward the combined fifteen (15) absences. Any disputes can be presented to the Administration in writing.
Tardiness
It is the responsibility of each student to get to every class on time. If a student arrives late to first period, he/she will be charged a regular classroom tardy. Tardy to class is defined as a student who is not at his/her assigned station when the tardy bell begins to ring. When this occurs the student must acquire a “pass to class” before attempting to enter that class.
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The individual teacher will handle the first classroom tardy. The second and third classroom tardy will result in the assignment of an after school detention and notification of the parent by the teacher. The fourth and fifth tardy will result in Saturday School assignments. If a student feels he/she must be out of a class for any reason, he/she should first notify the teacher for that period and request a hall pass. The only exceptions will be passes deemed as emergency situations and issued by an administrator, the nurse, office administrator, or a guidance counselor.
Truancy
Truancy is defined as: (a) absent from school without consent or knowledge of the parent, (b) leaving school or class for any portion of the day without proper permission. Any class work missed during truancy cannot be made up for credit.
Habitual Truancy
Todd Academy, Inc. is a private school and students are admitted with the understanding that they will agree to adhere to the rules and wish to participate in the educational opportunities that are offered here. Students who are habitually truant will be asked to leave Todd academy, Inc. and will not be allowed to return. If such action is taken, parents will be required to pay the entire tuition bill for the year and all financial aid, if given, will be revoked.
Section V
BEHAVIORAL RULES AND DISCIPLINE
Student Behavior Expectations
Students are expected to handle themselves as responsible and polite young adults at all times with courtesy and cooperation being the prevalent atmosphere. All students are reminded to remember the rights of others around them in behavior, beliefs, and with regards to personal possessions and space.
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Behavior in the Classroom
1. Each classroom teacher will provide guidelines for students to follow.
2. Students are expected to do their own work unless assigned as a group project, on homework, quizzes, tests, and special projects. Cheating or plagiarizing will result in disciplinary action taken by the classroom teacher or by the administration where repeated violations have occurred or in more serious incidents of cheating. Students caught cheating may be disciplined with failing grades, removal from class, and suspension from school and/or expulsion.
Behavior in the Corridors
1. Walk in the halls; do not run to classes.
2. Please keep to the right when moving through the corridors.
3. Keep moving so as to not create a traffic jam.
4. Talk with friends; do not shout or yell.
5. Scuffling or horseplay will not be tolerated.
6. Students are not to sit in the hallway in a manner that blocks or significantly restricts movement through the hallway.
7. All halls and stairways are to be kept clear of all items. This includes the computer lab. Stairway landings should never be used for conversations.
Good behavior and manners are expected at all times. Behavior on field trips must be exemplary. Behavior includes, but is not limited to, physical behavior, verbal behavior, and attitude. Any staff member may issue a verbal warning at their discretion. Should the staff member determine a stronger warning is warranted (i.e. for an often repeated violation), the student will be sent to the Guidance Office for a conference with the Guidance Counselor. At this time and at the discretion of the Guidance Counselor, a punishment may be assigned. This could include, but is not limited to: an approved written apology, detention, community service, and In School Suspension. Should a third offense occur, the student’s Enrollment Contract may be terminated.
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Fighting
Fighting is not an acceptable behavior at Todd Academy, Inc. Verbal and/or physical fighting could result in school suspension or expulsion. The police department is called on every occurrence of fighting. Charges may be filed with the police.
Language
There is no place in Todd Academy, Inc. for obscenities to be used in the halls or classrooms or on school property. Students who persist in such behavior will be disciplined by teachers and the administration. Students who use any form of the ―F word will be referred to the office for Saturday School.
Bullying
The Todd Academy, Inc., in compliance with IC 20-33-8, Prohibition of Bullying, will investigate and resolve bullying incidents reported to the teacher or to the administration by a student, parent, or teacher. An act of bullying is defined as overt, repeated acts or gestures, including verbal or written communications transmitted; physical acts committed; or any other behaviors committed by a student or group of students against another with intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm the other student. These acts include any that may occur on school grounds at any time, at school sponsored or endorsed activities or events, traveling to or from school or school events and activities, or when using school property, such as a computer, regardless of its location.
Hazing
Hazing as defined by state law is requiring, coercing, or forcing another person, with or without consent of the individual, to perform an act that creates a risk of bodily injury, be it physical, mental, or emotional, as a condition or requirement to associate with a group or organization. All such activities are prohibited at any time on school grounds or facilities, at any school related or sponsored events. At no time will permission, consent or the assumption of risk in any such activity be considered as an excuse for unacceptable behavior.
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Sexual Harassment
It is the policy of Todd Academy, Inc. to investigate promptly and resolve equitably all complaints of sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of sex, in compliance with federal and state law. Incidents that happen outside of school or off of school property are included, as these incidents would still contribute to a hostile learning and working environment. All incidents of sexual harassment should be reported immediately to the administration official.
Sexual harassment as defined by The Equal Pay Act of 1963 includes: unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual behavior, communications of a sexual nature, and any other gender-based or orientation-based harassment. Sexual harassment is not limited to any particular pairing or grouping of adult, student, male, or female. Examples of school-related situations that are considered unacceptable include, but are not limited to, the following: sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, unwelcome sexual invitations, unwelcome or offensive public sexual display of affection, unwelcome communication that is sexually suggestive, such as remarks or innuendoes about clothing or appearance, sexual jokes, sexual gestures, sexual rumors, name-calling or profanity that is sexually suggestive, unwelcome physical contact, unwelcome and sexually offensive pranks, unwelcome and sexually offensive touching of individual’s clothing, unwelcome written or pictorial displays, or any other unwelcome gender based or orientation based behavior that is offensive, degrading, intimidating, demeaning, or that is based on sexual stereotypes and attitudes. Harassment of any kind is grounds for disciplinary actions that can include but are not limited to suspension or expulsion from school.
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Gang Activity
Todd Academy, Inc. has a zero tolerance for gangs and gang participants. If a student is found to be in a gang, participating in gang activity or gang-like actions he/she will be immediately released from their school contract and restricted from Todd Academy, Inc. premises and activities.
Overt Student Affection
Students are to refrain from engaging in displays of romantic affection. While love and affection are normal emotions, the need to put on a public display at school is not. Excessive displays will be referred to a counselor and parents will be notified. If discussions do not remedy the problem, then detention, Saturday School, or suspension may be necessary.
Filing False Emergency Reports
Filing false emergency reports is against the law. Pulling a fire alarm, spraying fire extinguishers, pulling emergency showers, and making a bomb threat are examples of filing a false report. A student caught filing a false report will be dealt with severely and face possible arrest and expulsion.
Discipline
The Board of Directors of Todd Academy, Inc. has established that: consequences will be administered when self-discipline is lacking. The level of consequences administered will depend on the nature and/or frequency of the misbehavior. It is the intention that severity of discipline will be progressive with each succeeding incident. However, when an act is such that it is a hazard to the safety, security, well being of the student body, or may be a direct violation of the law, more severe action may be taken on the first offense. Most students enjoy their years at Todd Academy, Inc. and live within these rules. Rules have been established after careful thought for the well being of the entire student body. These rules were not made to punish students, but to maintain order and a more enjoyable atmosphere for all.
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Discipline Procedures
The Board of Directors of the Todd Academy, Inc. has provided a procedure for the handling of student suspension and expulsion from school. The basic premise of the policy is fairness.
A. A teacher may remove a student from his/her classroom or activity for a period of one day. Students may be sent by a teacher to detention.
