20203-2024 Parent Student Handbook

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

ARVIDA MIDDLE SCHOOL

10900 SW 127

Avenue

Miami, Florida 33186

305-385-7144

School Hours:

9:10 a.m. – 3:50 p.m.

School Website:

www.ArvidaMiddle.net

Twitter:

@arvidavikings

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Miami-Dade County Public Schools

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida

Ms. Mari Tere Rojas, Chair

Mr. Danny Espino, Vice Chair

Mr. Roberto J. Alonso

Ms. Lucia Baez-Geller

Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall

Ms. Mary Blanco

Ms. Monica Colucci

Dr. Steve Gallon III

Ms. Luisa Santos

Student Advisor

Zahara-Marie Ronizi

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

Dr. Jose L. Dotres

OFFICE OF SCHOOL LEADERSHIP AND PERFORMANCE

Dr. John Pace III

Deputy Superintendent

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Vision Statement

Inspired, valued, educated, and empowered students thriving in and beyond the classroom.

Mission Statement

To provide relevant learning experiences that foster life-long curiosity and enable ALL students

to achieve their full academic, personal, and civic potential.

Core Values

Excellence - We pursue the highest standards in academic achievement and organizational

performance.

Equity - We foster an environment that serves all students and aspires to eliminate the

achievement gap.

Student Focus - We focus on meeting our students’ diverse needs and supporting them in

fulfilling their potential.

Innovation - We encourage risk-taking, creativity, and adaptability to new ideas and methods

that will support and elevate student learning.

Accountability - We celebrate our successes, learn from our failures, and embrace challenges

as we strive towards continuous improvement.

Joy - We accept individuals for who they are, encourage them to engage with one another

authentically, and cultivate welcoming environments that promote fun and excitement.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Arvida Middle School • 10900 SW 127

Avenue • Miami, FL 33186 • Angela Holbrook, Principal

305-385-7144 • 305-383-9472 (FAX) • arvidamiddle.org

August 2023

Dear Students and Parents,

I welcome you to Arvida Middle School and to another successful school year. As a Magnet

Schools of America, National Award of Excellence Winner, we are committed to our students and

parents for academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, and social equity. Our school

leadership team has developed a school-wide Honor Code with a testament of Viking Pride as

our guiding vision for the values of Honesty, Integrity, and Responsibility in all that we say, write,

and do every day. Along with your partnership, we will further advance our school of excellence

for the development of all Viking students.

I have three core beliefs about middle grades education:

Student development and achievement is our primary purpose, and we must be

accountable for all students' learning and growth at high levels.

Parent engagement supports and maintains the educational process while setting a

personal and character development standard for students.

The teaching and learning environment is the pathway to establish positive school

experiences and to motivate students to dream big and work hard

These beliefs guide my educational decisions and help me set a foundation on which to develop

school improvement goals. Combined with good communication, I have found these beliefs to be

of value in supporting a child-centered learning environment. I welcome all ideas, suggestions,

and opportunities to enhance the educational environment and culture in our school.

It is a privilege to be your principal at Arvida Middle School. I humbly ask you to get involved and

support our PTSA efforts. I look forward to a great school year.

Sincerely,

Angela Holbrook, Principal

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Dear Students and Parents,

Welcome to what we know will be exciting goal setting and achieving year. We are excited that

you will join us on this year’s journey. Our top priority is to provide a safe, supportive, caring and

motivating environment in which each student has the opportunity to explore their talents and

abilities as we prepare them for any future endeavors.

Our school mission is to provide a world class education to every student. This is achieved

through rigorous curriculum taught with standards-based instruction, multiple extracurricular

activities opportunities, and a learning environment filled with respect and love. Our goal is to

engage student interest and address the unique learning style of each student. Students will have

the opportunity to explore a plethora of activities. Whether their interests lie in athletics, the arts,

technology, or leadership, they will find an outlet for their talents. With the support of our student

services staff, we will ensure that students’ physical, social, and emotional needs are met. The

Arvida Viking experience compares to no other.

We cannot do anything that we do without parent and community support, so as we begin our

year please take the opportunity to become an active member of our phenomenal Parent Teacher

Student Association (PTSA). They organize school events, dances, fundraisers, staff recognition,

and student activities as well as volunteer at our school daily. We urge you to join this organization

and support our school because we know that we are #StrongerTogether!

Have an amazing 2023-2024 school year and we look forward to meeting you, please take time

to stop by and introduce yourself.

Ms. Karina Cahill and Mr. Ronald Lherisson

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Arvida Middle School

School Mission & Vision Statement

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL 
DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK 
 
8 
 
 
Biography 
  
 
Arvida Middle School was founded by Arthur Vining Davis (May 30, 1867 
– November 17, 1962), American industrialist and philanthropist.  He was 
born  in  Sharon,  Massachusetts,  the  son  of  Perley  B.  Davis,  a 
Congregational minister,  and  Mary  Frances. After  attending school  in  Hyde 
Park, Massachusetts, and the Roxbury Latin School in Boston, Davis entered Amherst College, 
graduating in 1888. As a result of his father's friendship with a former parishioner, Alfred E. Hunt, 
founder of the Pittsburgh Reduction Company that made aluminum, Davis obtained a job with 
that company. Although aluminum's favorable characteristics as an industrial metal had been 
known for several decades, it was expensive to manufacture.  Hunt's company hoped to capitalize 
on Charles Martin Hall's experiments to produce the metal at low cost. Davis thus joined a firm 
that was adventurous. The work required a handyman's disposition—overalls and a twelve-hour 
day—for  the  manufacturing  process  was  a  continuous  one.  Davis  and  Hall  became  close 
associates during the experimental phase, and on Thanksgiving Day of 1888 they poured the first 
commercial aluminum. 
Davis married Florence Holmes in 1896. She died in 1908. In March 1912 he married Elizabeth 
Hawkins Weiman, who died in 1933. He had no children. Before retiring from Alcoa, Davis began 
a second career by investing primarily in The Bahamas and Florida. The investments included 
extensive real estate holdings in the Miami area (estimated at one-eighth of the county) and on 
Cuba's Isle of Pines.  He also had ownership or control of some thirty Florida enterprises ranging 
from dairy farms to resort hotels. The rapid acquisition and size of the investments resulted in 
considerable publicity and additional controversy with the government, including the Securities 
and Exchange Commission. 
Davis died in Miami, leaving an estate of $400 million. Only a small portion of his wealth went to 
individuals. The majority went to a trust he had established in 1952 and to Arvida (from Arthur 
Vining Davis), a northern Quebec model town he had founded in 1927 for working families. The 
Arthur Vining Davis Foundations provide financial assistance to educational, religious, cultural, 
and scientific institutions, and are a regular PBS donor. 
Arthur Vining Davis 
Founder 

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

School Directory and Staff List

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Feeder Pattern Schools

Elementary Schools

Middle Schools

Senior High School

Colonial Drive Elementary

Arvida Middle

Miami Killian Senior

Devon Aire K-8 Center

Glades Middle

Gloria Floyd Elementary

Kendale Elementary

Kenwood K-8 Center

Leewood K-8 Center

Snapper Creek Elementary

Sunset Park Elementary

William Lehman Elementary

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

• Opening and Closing Hours of Schools

9:10 a.m. – 3:50 p.m.

Doors open at 8:30 AM

• Early Sign Out

The early release of students causes disruption to the academic performance of all

students and may create safety and security concerns. No students shall be released

within the final thirty (30) minutes of the school day unless authorized by the Principal or

Principal’s designee (i.e., emergency, sickness).

• Late Arrival

Students who are tardy to school must report to the Attendance Office to secure an admit.

Excessive tardiness may result in loss of privileges, detention, parent conference, and/or

suspension.

• Attendance, Early Sign-Outs, and Tardies

School Attendance: Students are to be counted in attendance only if they are physically

present for at least two hours of the school day or engaged in a school-approved

educational activity which constitutes a part of the instructional program for the student.

Class Attendance: Students are to be counted in attendance if they are physically present

in class for at least half of the class period, have been excused by the teacher on a class-

related assignment, or have been requested by a member of the school support staff for

an approved school activity.

Early Sign-outs: No student shall be released within the final thirty (35) minutes of the

school day (3:15 p.m. on a regular bell day / 12:50 p.m. on an Early Release Day). After

the 4

Early Sign-Out from school, medical documentation and/or parent conference will

be required to excuse the absence.

Parents/guardians should use the Virtual Main Office on the school’s website for

early sign-out rather than enter the school to request a student.

Tardies: In order to receive an excused tardy, students provide proper documentation via

the Virtual Main Office on the school’s website. Excessive tardies from school will require

medical documentation and/or parent conference with an administrator to excuse the

tardy/absence.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Excused Absences, Tardies, and Early Sign-Outs

• Student illness: Students missing 3 or more consecutive days of school

due to illness or injury are required to provide a written statement from a

health care provider. The written statement must include all days the

student has been absent from school as well as the reason for the

absences. If a student is continually sick and repeatedly absent from

school due to a specific medical condition, he or she must be under the

supervision of a health care provider to receive excused absences from

school.

• Medical appointment: if a student is absent or signed out early from school

due to a medical appointment, a written statement from a health care

provider indicating the date and time of the appointment, must be submitted

to the principal.

• Death in the family

• Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all

members of a faith that such a holiday or service must be observed.

• School-sponsored event.

• Subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance.

• Outdoor suspensions

Admits

Students have 72 hours upon their return to school to receive an admit. If the

admit is NOT processed within 72 hours, the absence will be marked

unsatisfactory.

Unexcused School Absence

Any absence that does not fall into one of the above excused absence categories

is to be considered unexcused, including early sign-outs. Any student who has

been absent, or early sign-outs, from school will be marked unexcused absent until

he/she submits required documentation as specified above. Failure to provide

required documentation within three school days upon the return to school will

result in an unexcused absence. Unexcused absences and/or early sign-outs

include:

• Absences and/or early sign-outs due to vacations, personal services, local

non-school event, program or sporting activity.

• Absences and/or early sign-outs due to elder students providing day care

services for siblings or other family members

• Absences and/or early sign-outs due to illness of others

• Absences and/or early sign-outs due to non-compliance with immunization

requirements (unless lawfully exempted).

Makeup Work

Students who miss school work because of an excused absence shall be given the

opportunity to complete all assignments and tests that can be reasonably provided. The

student shall make arrangements with teachers for make-up work. As determined by the

teacher, the assignments and tests shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily

identical to, the assignments and tests missed during the absence. Students shall

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

receive full credit for work satisfactorily completed within a reasonable period of time.

Students suspended from school shall be given assignments to complete. The teacher

of any class from which a student is suspended may require the student to complete

tests missed during the suspension.

Important Dates

• Back to School Nights – Open House (as applicable)

School Level

Window Period

School Date

Elementary/K-8

Centers

Week of August 28, 2023

Middle Schools/K-8

Center: Grades 6-8

(only) if needed based

on school choice

Week of September 5, 2023

Senior High Schools

Week of September 11, 2023

Special Centers

Week of September 11, 2023

• Interim Progress Report & Report Card Distribution

Grading Period

Interim Progress Report

Distribution

Report Card Distribution

September 22, 2023

November 10, 2023

December 1, 2023

February 2, 2023

February 23, 2024

April 26, 2023

May 17, 2024

June 21, 2023

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

• School Calendar of Events is posted on Arvida’s website: https://arvidamiddle.net/

Academic Programs – Student Progression Plan (SPP), School Board Policy 5410

Provides guidance to teachers, school and district administrators, parents and other stakeholders

regarding the requirements and procedures for students to progress from one grade to the next,

kindergarten through grade 12 and adult education. The information presented in this document

is derived from requirements set forth by Florida Statues, State Board of Education Rules and

Policies established by The School Board of Miami-Dade County.

Before/After School Care Program & Middle School Enrichment After School Program

For those parents considering going back to work and/or are presently working, there are 240

low cost Before and After School Care programs that serve both Elementary and K-8 Center

students and 54 Middle School Enrichment After School programs that help tutor middle school

students throughout the Miami-Dade County School district. Each of these programs are staffed

with state certified instructors, state certified program managers, or state certified activity leaders

who are all prepared to enrich and expand the after-school experience of the students they serve.

This year, Miami-Dade County Public Schools will offer 294 After School programs on school

days. Before-school care programs will be provided as needed.

After-school care programs are conducted from the time of school dismissal until 6:00 p.m.

Before-school care programs begin approximately one hour before school starts. Summer Camp

operates from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Parents should check with their child's school for specific

start times.

All after-school care programs provide planned activities, which include homework assistance,

indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, snack time and various recreational activities. Many

programs offer reading and math tutoring, music, ceramics, chess, drama and other classes

designed to provide participants with a variety of educational and enrichment experiences.

Before-school care programs provide supervised, quiet activities for students.

The cost of Elementary and K-8 after school care is $60 per week or $55 per week discounted

rates for sibling or free/reduced lunch discounts; the cost of Middle School Enrichment after

school care is $60 per week and $55 per week discounted rates for sibling or free/reduced lunch

discounts; the cost of before school care is $30 per week and the cost of Summer Camp is

$125.00 per week or $115 per week discounted rates for sibling or free/reduced lunch discounts.

These programs are offered by one of five providers:

• Miami-Dade County Public Schools Principal Operated Before After-School Programs

• Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA)

• Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA)

• Family Christian Association of America (FCAA)

• South Florida After-School All Stars (SFASAS)

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Bring Your Own Device allows students, parents, staff and guests to utilize technology devices at

specified times during the instructional day to enhance the learning experience. Examples of the

types of technology which can be used are Windows laptops/tablets,

Mac laptops, Android tablets, and iPads. More information about the BYOD program as well as

minimum device specifications for those that are considering purchasing a device can be found

at https://digital.dadeschools.net

Bullying Prevention

Miami-Dade County Public Schools is committed to providing a safe learning environment for all

students and therefore all allegations of bullying/harassment are taken seriously. When

concerned about bullying or harassment behaviors, contact your child’s teacher immediately. You

can verbally report your concerns and/or fill out the Bullying and Harassment Reporting Form. If

the problem should continue to persist, notify the school’s principal. You may also contact the

Bullying/Harassment Helpline, staffed by the Division of Student Services staff at the District

office. They can be reached at 305-995-CARE (2273). The Helpline is staffed from 7:30 a.m. -

4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students and parents may also report bullying through our

Districts anonymous online bullying reporting system available on the student and parent portals.

Additional information regarding bullying and harassment can be found on the Student Services

website.

Closing of School

The emergency closing of a school for any cause, such as weather or in which the safety of

individuals may be endangered, is only at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools.

Code of Student Conduct

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, approved The Code of Student Conduct

(COSC). The COSC focuses on providing and maintaining a safe and positive learning

environment for students, faculty, staff and community.

A major consideration in the application of the COSC is cultivating a positive school climate to

support academic achievement, promote fairness, civility, acceptance of diversity, and mutual

respect. Toward that end, the range of inappropriate behavior is divided into five groups, along

with both recommended and mandated corrective strategies.

The COSC addresses the role of the parents/guardians, the students, and school, but also

focuses on core values and model student behavior, rights and responsibilities of students,

addressing student behavior, and disciplinary procedures. Furthermore teachers, counselors

and administrators work to use a variety of progressive corrective or guidance strategies to correct

the inappropriate behaviors.

Differences in age and maturity are recognized in determining the types of corrective strategies

to be taken. However, the procedures outlined in the COSC apply to all students under the

jurisdiction of Miami-Dade County Public Schools. The COSC is in force during regular school

hours, while students are being transported on a school bus and at such times and places –

including but not necessarily limited to school-sponsored events, field trips, athletic functions and

other activities – where appropriate school administrators have jurisdiction over students.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Principals are authorized to take administrative action whenever a student's

off-campus conduct poses a threat or danger to the safety of other students, staff, School Board

members, any other members of the District Community, or school property may constitute

behavior that has a substantial adverse impact on the educational environment requiring

disciplinary action. Types of behaviors range from acts that disrupt the orderly operation of the

classroom, school functions, and extracurricular activities or approved transportation to the most

serious acts of misconduct and violent actions that threaten life.

The Code of Student Conduct outlines expected student behavior and a multitude of corrective

strategies should misconduct occur.

The COSC addresses students' rights and responsibilities pertaining to the right to learn;

attendance; students' records; grades; free speech, expression and assembly; and publications.

It also outlines parents' rights in regard to assuring their child's opportunity for an education.

Students or parents having problems interpreting the COSC should address concerns through

the school principal. Additionally, should the concerns not be resolved at the school level, an

appeal can be made at the region office and subsequently to the District.

The Code of Student Conduct can be accessed by going to the following website:

http://ehandbooks.dadescholgbtols.net/policies/90/index.htm. If you do not have access to the

Internet, you may go to your child’s school and request to review the Code of Student Conduct

manual.

Please take the time to review and discuss the importance of the Code of Student Conduct with

your child or children. After reviewing the Code of Student Conduct, you and your child/children

must sign, date, and return the accompanied Parent Receipt and Acknowledgement Form to your

child's school within 5 school days.

Community School Program

The Community School Program offers an opportunity for the public-school system to determine

the needs of the community and provides a mechanism to meet those needs. The curriculum of

the Community School Program is as wide and varied as the needs of the community it serves.

Community schools provide programs that are funded by fees, tuition, grants, and donations, on

community school sites, in adult centers, in satellite programs, and at off-campus, non-public

school locations throughout Miami-Dade County.

Each of the 17 Community Education Centers offer classes for individuals of all ages, skill levels

and language capabilities. Students enrolling in language or computer classes have the

opportunity to enhance the job skills needed to satisfy the demands of today’s world. Annually,

thousands of people have taken advantage of these recreational and educational opportunities,

and if an individual or group wants to acquire a specific new skill, Miami-Dade County Public

Schools can work with each to create a class that suits the needs of all interests.

For more specific information on Miami-Dade County Public Schools Community Education and

Before and After School Care programs or Middle School Enrichment After School programs,

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

please log on to our website at www.dadecommunityschools.net or please call the Office of

Community Education, at 305-817-0014.

Comprehensive Student Services Program

The Division of Student Services implements the Comprehensive Student Services Program,

serving students from Pre-K to Adult. Through collaborative efforts with community agencies,

students’ academic, personal/social and career development needs are addressed through a

team-based approach. An integrated team of uniquely trained Student Services professionals

deliver direct services to students. These services focus on the elimination of social and

emotional barriers that inhibit students’ academic success and prepare students to be college

and career ready.

The Comprehensive Student Services Program supports student achievement through

effective prevention, intervention, and crisis response services. For more information, please

contact Martha Z. Harris, Administrative Director, Division of Student Services, at 305-816-

0436.

Discrimination/Harassment

The School Board has a prohibition against discrimination and harassment based on age, sex,

race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion, marital status, disability, age, political beliefs, sexual

orientation, gender, gender identification, social and family background, linguistic preference,

pregnancy, and any other basis prohibited by law. The Board shall maintain an educational and

work environment free from all forms of discrimination and harassment, which includes Title IX of

which prohibits all forms of sex discrimination and unwelcomes sexual conduct. Students are

encouraged to promptly report incidents of discriminatory or harassing conduct to their principal or

the Office of Civil Rights Compliance (CRC) so that the conduct can be addressed before it

becomes severe, pervasive, and persistent. For more information, please contact CRC at (305)

995-1580 or visit http://hrdadeschools.net/civilrights. The School Board has also adopted a policy

Against Bullying and Harassment with Bullying defined by state law as systematically and

chronically inflicting physical harm or psychological distress on one or more students. Complaints

of bullying should be reported to the principal promptly.

Dismissal

Students may ride bicycles, scooters, and skateboards to school. These items must be parked in

the front of the school and secured with personal locking devices during school hours in the

designated locations.

Parents are encouraged to drive through the front of the school in a single line during rainy days

to pick up students. Parking is not allowed anytime in front of the school during dismissal.

All parents must always obey local traffic laws. Please do not park illegally in unauthorized areas.

Early Dismissal

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

In the case of divorced or separated parents, the enrolling parent shall indicate on the Emergency

Student Data Form the individual(s) to whom the student may be released during the school day.

EESAC Meeting Dates

• 8/24

• 9/28

• 10/26

• 11/30

• 12/21

• 1/25

• 2/22

• 3/21

• 4/225

• 5/23

The Educational Excellence Advisory Council (EESAC) is the sole body responsible for final

decision making at the school relating to the implementation of the components of the School

Improvement Plan. The EESAC work together to accomplish the goals of the school by:

• Assisting in the preparation and evaluation of the schoolwide improvement plan (SIP)

• Approving the use of school improvement funds to support implementation of the SIP

• Assisting in the preparation of the school’s annual budget.

Educational Excellence School Advisory Councils (EESACs) and other advisory meetings held

by schools are listed in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools' Meeting Directory.

Elevator

The school elevator is to be used by individuals who are disabled or injured and cannot use the

stairs.

Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Student Data Forms are distributed during the first week of school. Students are

expected to bring the forms home and present them to their parents/guardians. The form must be

carefully completed and returned. The form should be completed by the registering parent. The

information provided on the Emergency Student Data Forms will enable school staff to contact

the parent/guardian immediately in the case of an emergency. Parent/Guardian(s) that provide a

cell phone number will receive text messages should an emergency arise. Students may only be

released from school to the persons listed on the form after presenting a picture identification. No

persons, other than school staff, will have access to the information submitted.

The school shall abide by information provided by the registering parent who must sign the

Emergency Student Data Form with regard to pick up and withdrawal of the student from school.

Any person verified as a parent in the District’s Student Information System is presumed to be

authorized to pick up the student unless otherwise indicated. Anyone who knowingly makes a

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

false statement in writing with the intent to mislead a public servant in the performance of his/her

official duty is guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor under F.S. 837.06. In addition, anyone who

knowingly makes a false verified declaration is guilty of perjury, a third-degree felony under F.S.

92.525. The registrar/attendance clerk will also be notified of any transfer or withdrawal so that

the files may be purged as changes occur. In addition, changes of address must be reflected on

student records.

Where parents are unmarried, divorced or separated, the parent who enrolled the student is

responsible for completing the Emergency Student Data Form with truthful and accurate

information that is consistent with the most recent court order governing their divorce, separation,

or custody matters. Any parent contesting the information on the Emergency Student Data Form

may seek assistance from the court governing their divorce, separation, or custody matters to

compel the enrolling parent to revise the information on the form. School staff shall provide such

persons with the website for the Family Court Self-Help Program at

http://www.jud11.flcourts.org/Family-Court-Self-Help-Program.

Exceptional Student Education/Section 504

The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida ensures that all students suspected of having

a disability are identified, evaluated, and provided appropriate, specially designed instruction and

related services, if it is determined that the student meets the state's eligibility criteria and the

parent/guardian consents to initial placement.

Students who are not eligible for specially designed instruction and related services in accordance

with state eligibility categories but have a disability that substantially affects a major life activity

may be eligible for accommodations pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

As the parent/guardian of a child with disabilities, you are a very important member of the team

that plans your child's education. Be informed and get involved. If you have any questions, please

contact your child's school and/or the Office of Educational Services and ESE at

ESE@dadeschools.net. Staff from the Office of Educational Services and ESE and/or your child's

school site administrative team will help to answer your questions. Additional information may

also be found at http://ese.dadeschools.net/.

Fieldtrips

All fieldtrips must be approved by the principal and Region Superintendent. Participation in

fieldtrips requires that the student present a fieldtrip form signed by the parent/guardian to his/her

teacher(s) in advance.

Homework

Principals are encouraged to work with teachers and parents to implement guidelines found in

Homework Policy 2330. Teachers are required to provide students with make-up assignments

once the absence has been excused; however, it is the responsibility of the student to request

the assignments from the teacher(s).

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Instructional Materials

Should a parent find Parents that would like to express concerns regarding any educational/library

materials may file on objection regarding non-adopted instructional and library/media center and

other educational materials by visiting the Instructional Materials link under the parent tab at their

school’s website or by clicking on the Instructional Materials link on the Dadeschools website.

Interscholastic Athletics

The Division of Athletics, Activities and Accreditation works with M-DCPS school sites to provide

students with opportunities to participate in athletics at various levels. Athletic programs are

offered at K-8 Centers, middle schools and high schools. At the middle schools, athletics consists

of intramural and interscholastic programs. At the high school level, interscholastic programs are

offered at most senior high schools.

For participation in interscholastic athletics at the middle school level, a student must have a 2.00

GPA in conduct and academics to participate. His or her parent must sign the M-DCPS Middle

School Athletic Program Consent and Release from Liability Certificate. For participation in

interscholastic athletics at the high school level, students must have a GPA of 2.00 in conduct

and academics is required except for incoming freshman. All participants must purchase athletic

and/or football insurance to participate and must have a current physical form on file.

A home education student must register his or her intent to participate in interscholastic

extracurricular activities as a representative of the school before participation.

The parents and student must also sign the Contract for Student Participation in Interscholastic

Competitions or Performances. The District also has policies concerning transfer students and

participation in athletics. If a parent has questions concerning these policies, he or she should

contact the Division of Athletics, Activities and Accreditation.

LGBTQ Support

The School Board of Miami-Dade County has adopted comprehensive anti-discrimination and

anti-bullying policies that require all students be treated with respect regardless of their unique

characteristics, including sexual orientation. Every student has the right to learn in a safe and

accepting school environment and schools have a responsibility to provide a safe and

nondiscriminatory environment for all students. M-DCPS has established the Students Allies for

Equity (SAFE) Network with liaisons in every school who are trained to ensure that all students

have access to all aspects of school life in ways that preserve and protect their dignity.

Mealtime Environment

School lunchtime should be an opportunity to encourage healthy lifestyle, promote socialization

that will affect early behaviors.

The Department of Food and Nutrition serves healthy meals daily. Please visit

nutrition.dadeschools.net for details on menus, programs, and services.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

• Free Student Meals

All students enrolled in district managed sites will have access to school meals at no

charge.

• Meal Program Information

All school meal program flyer with information for parents will be posted on the school’s

website and at nutrition.dadeschools.net.

• Meal Prices

Breakfast

Lunch

All Students No Charge

Adults $ 3.00

Adults $ 5.00

• Peanut Allergies/Peanut-Free School

Parents/Guardians should notify the school principal of any allergy or other medical

condition their child has and request the appropriate forms for completion.

Mental Health Services

Miami-Dade County Public Schools established The Department of Mental Health Services to

expand school and community-based mental health services and resources to ensure ongoing

coordination of services to further support the emotional and mental well-being of students. The

programs in place provide prevention initiatives, intervention services for students and family

support for students who may be experiencing a mental health challenge. Students in need of

intensive services can receive support from contracted agencies at no cost to families. For

assistance contact your child's school, the Parent Assistance Line at (305) 995-7100 or visit

https://mentalhealthservices.dadeschools.net/#!/fullWidth/3939.

School principals shall make a reasonable attempt to notify a parent of a student before the

student is removed from school, school transportation, or a school-sponsored activity to be taken

to a receiving facility for an involuntary examination and school or law enforcement personnel

must make a reasonable attempt to contact a mental health professional prior to initiating an

involuntary examination, except where there is an imminent danger to the student or others.

The Viking Times Newsletter will be shared via Instagram @ ArvidaVikings once per

month.

• Connection Newsletter

M-DCPS Office of Communications publishes a monthly newsletter dedicated to M-DCPS

parents. Please visit https://www.engagemiamidade.net/families where you can find the

latest issue as well as archived issues from the previous year.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Protocol for Addressing Parental Concerns

Parents may generally address their complaints or concerns to the school administration, which

may be followed by Region and District department review as deemed appropriate. For issues

involving an individual teacher or class, parent/guardian should contact the following individuals

starting at the school in the order below.

Teacher

Assistant

Principal

Region Center:

Line Director

Region

Superintendent

Office of School

Leadership &

Performance

District

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Administrator Appointment Request:

(Links also available on school website under virtual main office)

Grade Ms. Holbrook

Grade Ms. Cahill

Grade Mr. Lherisson

Email a Counselor (by student last name):

(Links also available on school website under virtual main office)

• Gustavo Jimenez, Counselor, A- L

• Carly Ziegler, Counselor, M-Z,

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Public-Private Collaboration

Requests for private instructional personnel to collaborate with public instructional personnel in

the educational setting should be directed to the principal for application of District procedures.

Recess

Recess is supervised, unstructured playtime where children have choices, develop rules for play

and release energy and stress. Recess will be conducted outdoors when weather permits. In

the case of inclement weather, appropriate recess activities will be conducted indoors.

Schools shall provide at least 100 minutes of supervised, safe, and unstructured free-play recess

each week for students in kindergarten through grade 5, so that there are at least 20 consecutive

minutes of free-play recess per day.

Safety and Security

• Emergency Drills

Six emergency drills, to include active shooter, hostage situations, bomb threats, and other

potential emergencies will take place during the school year in accordance with Florida

Administrative Code 6A-1.0018(15). All occupants of building where an emergency drill is

held are required to participate. The first emergency drill must take place within the first

10 days of the opening of schools, whereas all remaining drills must occur at least every

45 days that school is in session. All emergency drills shall be conducted in accordance

with the appropriate corresponding situational response as outlined in the EOP and shall

include developmentally appropriate and age-appropriate procedures.

• Emergency Operations Plan

Student and employee safety is an utmost priority of the Miami-Dade County Public School

(M-DCPS) System. The District Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) was created to provide

District staff, school administration and personnel with the knowledge needed to respond

to critical incidents or other related emergencies that may occur in our schools/community.

All schools have a site-specific plan to address all types of critical incidents. These plans

address the individual needs of the school and provide guidelines for devising methods

for communicating with the staff, students, parents/guardians, and the media during a

critical incident or an emergency. Some of the protective action procedures include

emergency drills (active shooter, hostage, & bomb drills), the evacuation of students/staff

from the building(s), evacuation of the disabled and if necessary the relocation of

students/staff from the school campus, lockdown procedures and holding/dismissing

students during school and community emergencies. Some important tips for

parents/guardians to remember during a Critical Incident are as follows:

o Remain calm;

o Monitor media outlets for updates and official messages from M-DCPS;

o Do not flood the school with telephone calls; and

o Students will not be released during a lockdown. If you need to pick up your child

wait until the lockdown is lifted before going to the school.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

All school administrators, Region Center Superintendents/Directors and all MDSPD Police

officers have been provided the school EOP and are prepared to respond immediately

during a critical incident or emergency to provide safety for all children.

BeSafe Anonymous Reporting System (Insert Flyer)

FortifyFL (flyer in Appendix D)

• Fire Drills (Evacuation Drills)

Evacuation drills will take place during the school year in accordance with the National

Fire Protection Association 101 Life Safety Code. When the fire alarm activates, students

must stop what they are doing and follow the teacher’s instructions. Students must clear

the building promptly by the prescribed route. Any student who is in the hallway or the

restroom must proceed to the nearest exit and locate the teacher. Students, teachers and

staff must remain outside the building until permission is given to re-enter.

• Lockdown Procedures

Lockdowns are utilized in response to an immediate threat posed to students and staff.

Schools have successfully performed lockdowns in response to police activity adjacent to

a facility and potential armed intruders onsite. Students, faculty and staff will comply with

all the procedures outlined in the Miami-Dade Public Schools Critical Incident Response

Plan and remain on lockdown until a school administrator and/or law enforcement makes

an “All Clear” announcement.

• Threat Assessments

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) has a mandated set of procedures for

threat assessments. Schools must establish a Threat Assessment Team comprised of an

administrator, counselor, teacher, and law enforcement officer. The schools utilize a

problem-solving approach to harm prevention that involves assessment and intervention

with students who threaten violence or harm. When a preliminary determination is made,

that a student poses a threat of violence the team shall further convene to determine the

best course of action. Authorized members of the team may obtain criminal history record

information, if applicable. Students determined to be at-risk for violence will be referred for

mental health services as applicable. Threat assessments and disciplinary procedures are

separate processes. Regardless of whether a threat is determined to be transient, serious

substantive, or very serious substantive, appropriate disciplinary procedures shall be

followed in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

• Visitors

Due to legal regulations, students are not permitted to have guests attend school with

them at any time. Parents/guardians are always welcome, and tours may be arranged with

the principal to view the school. Classroom visits require a request with 24-hour notice. All

visitors must first register with security at the main entrance, sign-in, produce photo

identification, and then proceed to register in the main office. Anyone who fails to follow

these procedures will be considered a trespasser and is subject to arrest.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

School Activities/Clubs

All School Activities, clubs, and organizations must be approved by the principal and conform to

the School Board Policies 5845 - Student Activities, 5830 - Student Fundraising and 9211 – Parent

Organization, Booster Clubs, and Other Fund-Raising Activities.

• Clubs

Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ students may participate in a wide variety of activities,

including student council, subject-area clubs, honor societies, service clubs, school

publications and class activities. School-sponsored clubs may be curriculum-related or

noncurricular-related.

Curriculum-related clubs are student groups whose goals are an extension of the activities

and objectives in a particular subject area within the school's curriculum. Conversely,

noncurricular-related clubs are student groups whose goals are special interest oriented

and not directly related to the curriculum. Meetings of noncurricular-related clubs may be

scheduled only at times when instruction is not taking place, either before or after school.

CLUB

SPONSOR

Teacher Email

Art Club

Mrs. Fernandez-

Castillo

fernandezcastillo@dadeschols.net

Florida Future Educators of

America

Ms.Balladares

aballadares@dadeschools.net

Japanese Club

Mr. Perez-Varela

bperez[email protected]

Multi-Cultural Awareness

& Equality

Mrs. Jones-Whyte

chanteljones@dadeschols.net

National Junior Honor

Society

Ms.Madrid

nmadrid@dadeschools.net

Pet Vet Club

Mrs. Rivero

nrivero1@dadeschools.net

Viking Council

Ms. justiniano

gjustiniano@dadeschools.net

S.W.A.G.

Mrs. Richardson

mrichardson1@dadeschools.net

More Clubs to be

Announced later in the

year

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

School Center for Special Instructions (SCSI)

School administrators may elect to assign students to the School Center for Special

Instruction (SCSI) as an interim alternative educational setting to suspension from school. SCSI

is designed to provide strategies and resources to students focused on learning new behavior

skills. When misconduct in a class result in an assignment to SCSI, the student should be

reassigned from only the class in which the misconduct occurred. Continued misconduct can

result in the reassignment from all classes.

School Class Picture Process

The school class picture monies will no longer be collected by school staff for this activity.

Collection of monies will be conducted by the photographer and/or photographer’s staff.

At no time, shall a staff member, parent, volunteer, or member of a school-allied organization

such as the PTA handle school class picture monies.

School Transportation

Miami-Dade County Public Schools will transport approximately 35,000 students a day this school

year, using a fleet of 999 buses on 800 school-bus routes. The service is for students who live

more than two (2) miles from their assigned school and for students with special needs in some

instances.

Before school begins, parents/guardians of all students eligible for bus transportation should log

on the BusPlannerWeb and view the bus assignment. The information is updated nightly, and a

link is provided on the parent portal. Parents/guardians are encouraged to check the

BusPlannerWeb throughout the school year to obtain the most current information on their

children’s bus assignment.

Parents interested in determining their child's transportation eligibility should contact their child's

school for information.

Student Records

The education records and personally identifiable information of students are protected by The

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Florida Statutes. These laws provide

that without the prior consent of the parent, guardian or eligible student, a student's records may

not be released, except in accordance with the provisions listed in the above-cited laws. The laws

provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement to the release of student records,

which include, but are not limited to, school officials with a legitimate educational interest and

lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders with notice prior to disclosure. Parents and eligible

students are also provided the right to challenge the accuracy of their education records in

accordance with the procedures outlined in School Board Policy 8330.

Each school must provide to the parent(s), guardian(s) or eligible student(s) an annual notice in

writing of their right to inspect and review student records. Once a student reaches 18 years of

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DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education, the consent is required from the

student only, unless the student qualifies as a dependent under the law.

School Volunteer Program

The School Volunteer Program matches the resources of members of the community with the

needs of our schools to support the District's goal of student achievement. School Volunteers

bring with them many diverse skills and talents that are tailored to the needs of the students and

the community. Each year, more than 30,000 volunteers share their time and talents enriching

the lives of students in our schools.

To Become a School Volunteer:

1. Visit https://www.engagemiamidade.net/volunteers

2. Complete the online volunteer registration (Raptor).

3. Receive email approval from the School Volunteer Office.

Once you're approved, CHECK-IN at your school as a VOLUNTEER to track your time and

school volunteer activity.

Steps to Managing Your Volunteer Hours

Who Can Volunteer?

• Students- M-DCPS students; college/university students charter/private school students

• Parents - Guardians, primary caregivers

• Employees - Administrators, teachers, and staff of M-DCPS;

• Community Members and Organizations - businesses, retirees, local organizers,

community and faith-based organizations, alumni, and college students

The M-DCPS Parent Academy

Miami-Dade County Public Schools created the Parent Academy to bridge the gap between home

and school by connecting parents to valuable resources and information on topics that impact

children’s lives, including helping children learn, parenting skills, financial management, and

health and wellness.

The M-DCPS Parent Academy supports parents in becoming more involved in their children’s

education and empowers them to set and achieve personal empowerment goals for higher

education and career advancement by providing free, year-round workshops, classes and events

at schools, neighborhood centers, and community agencies across the county.

Parents can participate in virtual and in-person sessions that are aligned to their needs and

convenient to their homes and workplaces. Upcoming events and workshop offerings are listed

on the M-DCPS Parent Academy website at parentacademymiami.com. For additional

information, please call the M-DCPS Parent Academy at 305-271-8257 and follow them on

Facebook and Instagram “Parent Academy Miami” and on Twitter “@ParentAcadMiami”.

Verifications of Residency

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

If verification is not provided or acceptable, the Superintendent may verify the student's residence.

Anyone who knowingly makes a false statement in writing with the intent to mislead a public

servant in the performance of his/her official duty is guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor of

the second degree under Florida Statute 837.06. In addition, anyone who knowingly makes a

false verified declaration is guilty of perjury, a third-degree felony under Florida Statute 95.525.

Padres que necesiten assitencia en Espanol por favor entrar a la

pagina de Instagram @ArvidaAmigos.

@ArvidaAmigos

La Pagina de www.ArvidaMiddle.net

Se traduce a Espanol:

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

APPENDIX A – School Calendars

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

APPENDIX B – Florida Statues and School Board Policies

View all School Board Policies at: School Board Bylaws & Policies

Academics

• 2235 - MUSIC, ART, AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

o Music, art, and physical education are fundamental subjects in the school's

curriculum because they contribute to every child’s academic and social

development. Art and Music education helps level the "learning field" across socio-

economic boundaries while strengthening student problem-solving and critical

thinking skills and contributing to the overall academic achievement of students.

• 2240 - CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES AND STUDENT EXPRESSION

o Students are encouraged to participate in discussions, speeches, and other

expressions in which many points of view, including those that are controversial,

are freely explored. A controversial issue is a topic on which opposing points of

view have been promulgated by responsible opinion or likely to arouse both

support and opposition in the community.

• 2370.01 – VIRTUAL INSTRUCTION

o The enrollment period for the District-operated full-time virtual instruction program,

Miami-Dade Online Academy, opens in the spring of each school year for a

minimum of ninety days and closes thirty days before the first day of the school

year.

• 2416 – STUDENT PRIVACY AND PARENTAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION

o No student shall be required, as a part of the school program or the District's

curriculum, without prior written consent of the student (if an adult, or an

emancipated minor) or, if an unemancipated minor, his/her parents, to submit to or

participate in any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information.

o Parents have the right to inspect, upon request, any instructional material used as

part of the educational curriculum of the student and within a reasonable period of

time after the request is received by the building principal. "Instructional material"

means instructional content that is provided to a student, regardless of its format,

including printed and representational materials, audio-visual materials, and

materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials accessible through the

Internet). The term does not include academic tests or assessments.

• 2417 – REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND DISEASE EDUCATION

o The School Board shall provide comprehensive reproductive health and disease

education to secondary students.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

o Parents will be notified in advance when the reproductive health and disease

lessons will be taught in the classroom and encouraged to review the program

content and instructional materials.

o Parents may request that a student be exempted from the teaching of reproductive

health or any disease, including HIV/AIDS, its symptoms, development and

treatment; and the process for requesting such exemption. An appropriate

alternative educational assignment will be provided for any student who receives

an exemption.

• 2421 - K-12 CAREER-TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

o Career-technical education is designed to provide career and technical education

experiences. These experiences will complement and reinforce academic

concepts that are particularly amenable to contextualized learning in a distinct

career area and provide occupationally specific skills.

• 2432 – DRIVER EDUCATION

o The driver education program is designed for high school students who elect to

participate in any of the available state approved driver education courses and that

the purpose of the program is to introduce students to Florida driving laws/rules of

the road and safe driving behavior.

• 2440 - SUMMER SCHOOL

o The School Board may conduct a summer program of academic instruction for

students in grades K-12 and Special Education (SPED) students needing

extended school year services as identified in their Individual Education Plan

(I.E.P.). The School Board may also choose to implement summer enhancement

programs, contingent upon available funding. The School Board shall provide

transportation for full-time SPED students and other students as appropriate.

• 2510 - INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS, SCHOOL LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER, AND

OTHER EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS

o Meetings of committees convened for the purpose of ranking, eliminating, or

selecting instructional materials for recommendation to the district school board

must be noticed and open to the public and committees convened for such

purposes must include parents of district students.

o The District shall maintain on its website a current list of instructional materials, by

grade level, purchased by the District. This list can be accesses at

http://im.dadeschools.net/. Elementary schools shall maintain a list of materials

available at the school on the school website. Parents may object to instructional

materials in accordance with District procedures.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

• 2623 - STUDENT ASSESSMENT

o Student assessment shall comply with the law and State Board of Education rules

to determine the progress of students and to assist them in attaining student

performance objectives and the educational achievement goals of the District.

o State-mandated tests (e.g., diagnostic assessments and achievement tests) shall

be administered to all eligible students at the times designated by the State Board

of Education.

o Administrative procedures for test security and confidentiality of student results are

in place to maintain the integrity of District and State assessments.

• 5410 - STUDENT PROGRESSION PLAN

o Provides guidance to teachers, school and district administrators, parents and

other stakeholders regarding the requirements and procedures for students to

progress from one grade to the next, Kindergarten through grade 12 and Adult

Education. The information presented in the document is derived from

requirements set forth by Florida Statutes, State Board of Education Rules and

policies established by The School Board of Miami-Dade County.

Accident Reports/Incident Reports/School Safety

• 1139 – EDUCATOR MISCONDUCT

o Within 24 hours after notification to the Superintendent or governing board chair of

a charter school by a law enforcement agency that an employee has been arrested

for a felony or misdemeanor involving the abuse of a minor child or the sale or

possession of a controlled substance, the school principal or designee shall notify

parents of enrolled students who had direct contact with the employee and include,

at a minimum, the name and specific charges against the employee.

• 3213 - STUDENT SUPERVISION AND WELFARE

o Protecting the physical and emotional well-being of students is of paramount

importance. Each instructional staff member shall maintain the highest

professional, moral, and ethical standards in dealing with the supervision, control,

and protection of students on or off school property.

o Staff members shall report immediately to a building administrator any accident,

safety hazard, or other potentially harmful condition or situation s/he detects.

o Staff members shall provide proper instruction in safety matters.

o Any parent with a concern regarding the implementation of the provisions of F.S.

1001.42(8)(c) may file a written complaint with the principal of their child's school.

• 5540 - INVESTIGATIONS INVOLVING STUDENTS

o School administrators shall respond to incidents involving students occurring on

school grounds or at school-sponsored events. When conducting an initial fact

inquiry, if an administrator suspects that a crime has been committed, they must

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

report the matter to School Police or another appropriate law enforcement agency

to assume the investigative responsibilities.

• 5772 - WEAPONS

o Students are prohibited from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon,

including a concealed weapon, in a school safety zone and any setting that is under

the control and supervision of the School Board for the purpose of school activities

approved and authorized by the School Board including, but not limited to, property

leased, owned, or contracted for by the School Board, a school-sponsored event,

or in a School Board-owned or private vehicle.

• 7217 - WEAPONS

o Visitors are prohibited from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon,

including a concealed weapon, in a school safety zone and any setting that is under

the control and supervision of the School Board for the purpose of school activities

approved and authorized by the School Board including, but not limited to, property

leased, owned, or contracted for by the School Board, a school-sponsored event,

or in a School Board-owned or private vehicle.

• 8405 - SCHOOL SAFETY

o The School Board is committed to maintaining a safe and drug-free environment

in all of the District’s schools. School crime and violence are multifaceted problems

that need to be addressed in a manner that utilizes all available resources in the

community through a coordinated effort of School District personnel, law

enforcement agencies, and families. School administrators and local law

enforcement officials must work together to provide for the safety and welfare of

students while they are at school or a school-related event or are on their way to

and from school. Parents have the right to access SESIR data and to receive timely

notification of threats, unlawful acts, and significant emergencies, certain arrests

of employees. Student identification cards issued by the District to students in

grades 6 through 12 include the telephone numbers for national or statewide crisis

and suicide hotlines and text lines. Drills for active assailant and hostage situations

shall be conducted at least as often as emergency drills and fire drills.

• 8410 – EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, PREPAREDNESS, AND RESPONSE

o The School Board recognizes that its responsibility for the safety of students and

staff requires that it formulate and prescribe emergency management and

emergency preparedness procedures for District schools, in consultations with

appropriate public safety agencies, including emergency notification procedures

for life-threatening emergencies, including, but not limited to, fires; natural

disasters; bomb threats, weapon-use, hostage, and active assailant situations;

hazardous materials or toxic chemical spills; weather emergencies, including

hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms (see Policy 8420.01); and exposure as

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DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

a result of a manmade emergency; and that such emergencies are best met by

preparedness and planning.

o The District Critical Incident Response Team (DCIRT) is responsible for assisting

schools with emergencies/critical incidents as needed and coordinate District

resources.

• FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 943.082 – SCHOOL SAFETY AWARENESS

PROGRAM

o FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows users to instantly relay

information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. FortifyFL

was created and funded by the 2018 Florida Legislature as part of the Marjory

Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act. It is available for free download

from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It may also be accessed from

the Dadeschools.net homepage, as well as the student, parent, and employee

portal pages. A link to FortifyFl has also been placed on each school site

information page.

Admission, Registration and Immunization Requirements

• 5112 - ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

o Establishes the admission and registration requirements for students entering

school. The following documents and forms are to be provided upon initial

registration:

▪ Original birth certificate

▪ Verification of age and legal name

▪ Proof of a physical examination by an approved health care provider

including a tuberculosis health clinical screening, appropriate follow-up,

and a Florida Certificate of Immunization-680 Form

▪ Verification of parent/legal current residence (address)

o Requires the registering parent to submit truthful and accurate information in

accordance with current court orders related to parenting matters.

o The school shall abide by information provided by the parent who completes the

initial registration documents or “registering parent”. Any person verified as a

parent in the District’s Student Information System is presumed to be authorized

to pick up the student unless otherwise indicated. Parents have the right to change

the registering parent by agreement. Any subsequent change to the registering

parent listed in the District’s student information system must be verified by both

parents in accordance with District procedures. Only the registering parent will be

permitted to withdraw the student from the school and enroll the student in another

District school. Any parent contesting the information on the initial registration

forms may seek assistance from the court to compel the registering parent to

revise the information on the forms. School staff shall provide such persons with

the website for the Family Court Self-Help Program at

http://www.jud11.flcourts.org/Family-Court-Self-Help-Program. Parents may

agree to change the registering parent and submit an Agreement to Change of

Registering Parent Form (FM-7600) at any time.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL

DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

• 5114 - FOREIGN STUDENTS

o Entry requirements into schools are the same for all students, regardless of country

of birth and immigration status. All students will register at the school of the actual

residence of the parent in the attendance area as approved by the School Board.

• 5320 – IMMUNIZATION

o All students shall be immunized against polio, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)

diphtheria, pertussis tetanus (DTaP), hepatitis B, and varicella (chicken

pox). Student’s with a documented history of the varicella (chicken pox) disease

are not required to receive the varicella vaccine. This policy applies to students

who currently attend school in the District and those eligible to attend.

o A student who has not completed the required immunization will not be admitted

to school.

o The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends students should receive

an annual flu vaccine by the end of October, and all eligible students are

encouraged to receive the COVID-19 vaccine including COVID-19 vaccine

booster shots to help protect against the virus.

Animals on District Property

• 8390 - ANIMALS ON DISTRICT PROPERTY

o Service animals as required by law are permitted in schools. “Service animals”

pursuant to 28 C.F.R. 35.104, means any dog that is individually trained to do work

or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a

physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.

o All animals, including service animals, housed on District property or brought on

District property on a regular basis must meet every State and County veterinary

requirement, including but not limited to, rabies vaccination or other inoculations

required to be properly licensed.

o Students are not allowed to bring pets to school.

Anti-Discrimination Policy

• 5517 – PROHIBITION ON DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT AGAINST

STUDENTS BASED ON PROTECTED CATEGORIES

o The School Board shall comply with all Federal laws and regulations prohibiting

discrimination and all requirements and regulations of the U.S. Department of

Education. The Board will enforce its prohibition against discrimination and

harassment based on sex, race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion, marital

status, disability, age, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender, gender

identification, social and family background, linguistic preference, pregnancy, and

any other basis prohibited by law. The Board shall maintain an educational and

work environment free from all forms of discrimination and harassment, which

includes Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

o This policy prohibits discrimination and harassment at locations, events, or

circumstances over which the Board exercises substantial control over both the

respondent and the context in which the prohibited conduct occurs, including but

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not limited to such events occurring on school property, during any school-related

or school-sponsored program or activity, and on school-sponsored transportation.

This policy also prohibits retaliation against a person who has made a report or

filed a formal complaint alleging unlawful discrimination or harassment, or who has

participated as a witness in a discrimination or harassment investigation.

• 5517.01 – BULLYING AND HARASSMENT

o The School Board is committed to providing a safe learning environment for all

students and shall strive to eradicate bullying and harassment in its schools by

providing awareness, prevention, and education in promoting a school atmosphere

in which bullying, harassment, and intimidation will not be tolerated by students,

Board employees, visitors, or volunteers.

o This policy is also incorporated by reference into the Code of Student Conduct,

and supersedes any existing policy, guideline, or Board policy regarding bullying

and harassment that may be inconsistent with this policy. These policies apply to

all students in the District.

o This policy does not replace the District’s current policy prohibiting harassment

on the basis of sex, race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion, marital status,

disability, age, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender, gender identification,

social and family background, linguistic preference, and pregnancy.

• 5517.02 - DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT COMPLAINT PROCEDURES FOR

STUDENTS

o Students and parents are encouraged to promptly report complaints of

discriminatory or harassing conduct to their principal. Additionally, they may file

the complaint directly with the Region Office or the District’s Office of Civil Rights

Compliance (CRC).

o All complaints involving student to student harassment, except sexual harassment,

will be first investigated at the school site. If such complaints are made directly to

the District Office, the Region Office or the CRC Office, they will be referred to the

school site for the initial investigation. Complaints of sexual harassment of a

student will be investigated by the CRC Office with support from the school in

accordance with the District’s Title IX Sexual Harassment Manual. For more

information, please contact CRC at (305) 995-1580 or visit

http://hrdadeschools.net/civilrights.

o This policy provides the steps to individual complaints of discrimination and

harassment based on protected categories and the process for addressing the

complaints.

Attendance Policy/School Hours

• 5200 – ATTENDANCE

o Student attendance is a means of improving student performance and critical in

raising student achievement. Together, the staff of Miami-Dade County Public

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Schools, students, parents and the community must make every effort to lessen

the loss of instructional time to students.

o Absences shall be reported to the school attendance office by the parent or adult

student as soon as practicable. The Superintendent shall require, from the parent

of each student of compulsory school age or from an adult student who has been

absent from school or from class for any reason, a statement of the cause for such

absence. The District reserves the right to verify such statements and to

investigate the cause of each single absence.

o Educators shall encourage regular attendance of students, maintain accurate

attendance records, and follow reporting procedures prescribed by the

Superintendent.

• 5225 - ABSENCES FOR RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS

o Student absences for religious purposes, as identified on the approved holidays

listed in the Student Attendance Reporting Procedures PK-12 Handbook, may not

prohibit students from receiving attendance awards or other attendance incentives

at the school level, region level, or District level.

• 5230 - LATE ARRIVAL AND EARLY DISMISSAL

o Students shall be in attendance throughout the school day. If a student will be late

to school or dismissed before the end of the school day, the parent shall notify the

school in advance and state the reason for the tardiness or early dismissal.

Justifiable reasons shall be determined by the principal. Students will be counted

absent if they are not present in class for at least half of the class period. To be

counted "present" for the day, the student must be in attendance for a minimum of

two hours of the day unless extenuating circumstances exist.

o The registering parent –shall indicate on the Emergency Student Data Form the

individual(s) to whom the student may be released during the school day. The

registering parent who completes the Emergency Student Data Form is

responsible for providing information that is truthful and accurate – and in the case

of unmarried, divorced, or separated parents, consistent with any court order in

effect governing their divorce, separation, or parenting matters.

• 8220 - SCHOOL DAY

o The Superintendent shall annually establish the hours of the school day. The

Superintendent may authorize exceptions from the regular school day.

o The Superintendent may close the schools, delay the opening of school, or dismiss

school early when such alteration in the regular session is required for the

protection of the health and safety of students and staff members.

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Ceremonies & Observances

• 8800 - RELIGIOUS CEREMONIES/OBSERVANCES AND MOMENT OF QUIET

REFLECTION

o Acknowledgement of, explanation of, and teaching about religious holidays of

various religions is permitted. Celebration activities involving nonreligious

decorations and use of secular works are permitted, but it is the responsibility of

all faculty members to ensure that such activities are strictly voluntary, do not place

an atmosphere of social compulsion or ostracism on minority groups or individuals,

and do not interfere with the regular school program. The principal of each school

shall require teachers in the first class period of the school day in all grades to set

aside at least one (1) minute, but not more than two (2) minutes, daily, for moment

of silence, during which time students may not interfere with other students’

participation. The amendments prohibit a teacher from making suggestions as to

the nature of any reflection that a student may engage in during the moment of

silence and require each teacher in the first class period of the day to encourage

parents and guardians to discuss the moment of silence with their children and

make suggestions as to how their children can best use this time.

Class Size

• CLASS SIZE STATE STATUTE

o Florida citizens approved an amendment that set limits on the number of students

in core academic classes in public schools. The amendment requires classes to

be in compliance at the class level. However, pursuant to language passed by the

2013 Florida Legislature in HB 7009 and subsequently approved by the Governor,

amending Florida Statute 1002.31, Public School Parental Choice, the calculation

for compliance with class size limits pursuant to Florida Statute 1003.03 for a

school or program that is a public school of choice is measured by the average

number of students at the school level.

Clinic

• 5330 – STUDENT USE OF MEDICATIONS

o The School Board shall not be responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of

student illness. The administration of prescribed medication and/or medically-

prescribed treatments to a student during school hours will be permitted only when

failure to do so would jeopardize the health of the student, the student would not

be able to attend school if the medication or treatment were not made available

during school hours, or the child is disabled and requires medication to benefit from

his/her educational program.

Code of Student Conduct

• 2451 - ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

o The Superintendent may provide alternative education programs for students who,

in the opinion of the Superintendent, will benefit from this educational option.

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Participation in an alternative program does not exempt the student from

complying with school attendance rules or the Code of Conduct.

• 5136.02 - SEXTING

o Sexting is the act of sending or forwarding through cellular telephones and other

electronic media sexually explicit, nude, or partially nude photographs/images. It

is the District's mission to ensure the social, physical, psychological, and academic

well-being of all students. The educational purposes of the schools are best

accomplished in a climate of student behavior that is socially acceptable and

conducive to the learning and teaching process.

• 5500 - STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE

o Schools shall promote a positive school climate that supports academic

achievement and emphasizes civility, fairness, mutual respect, and acceptance of

diversity. The Code of Student Conduct Elementary, Code of Student Conduct

Secondary, and the Post-Secondary Code of Student Conduct, incorporated by

reference, apply to all students in the District. Copies of these documents are on

file in the Office of Board Recording Secretary, and the Citizen Information Center,

and shall be available in each school and special center.

o The Superintendent, principals, and other administrators shall assign

discipline/corrective strategies to students pursuant to the Code of Student

Conduct and, where required by law, protect the student’s due process rights to

notice, hearing, and appeal. Additional guidelines for the maintenance of

appropriate student behavior are issued by memorandum from District

administration.

o The Superintendent shall make the Code of Student Conduct available to all

students and their parents.

• 5511 - DRESS CODE AND SCHOOL UNIFORMS

o Students are expected to come to school with proper attention having been given

to personal cleanliness, grooming, and neatness of dress. Students whose

personal attire or grooming distracts the attention of other students or teachers

from their schoolwork shall be required to make the necessary alterations to such

attire or grooming before entering the classroom or be sent home by the principal

to be properly prepared for school. Students who fail to meet the minimum

acceptable standards of cleanliness and neatness as determined by the principal

and as specified in this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary measures.

Digital Conversion/Social Media

• 7540.03 - STUDENT RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND

DISTRICT NETWORK SYSTEMS

o The School Board provides students access to a large variety of technology and

network resources which provide multiple opportunities to enhance learning and

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DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

improve communication within the school district and the community. All users

must, however, exercise appropriate and responsible use of school and District

technology and information systems. Users include anyone authorized by

administration to use the network. This policy is intended to promote the most

effective, safe, productive, and instructionally sound uses of network information

and communication tools.

Equal Opportunity

• 2260 - NONDISCRIMINATION AND ACCESS TO EQUAL EDUCATIONAL

OPPORTUNITY

o The School Board shall provide equal opportunity for all students and will not

discriminate or tolerate harassment in its educational programs or activities on any

basis prohibited by law or School Board Policy.

• 5111.01 - HOMELESS STUDENTS

o The District Project UP-START program serves children and youth who are

identified as meeting the Federal definition of "homeless". Homeless children and

youth, including those who are not currently enrolled in school due to

homelessness, shall have equal access to the same free appropriate public

education (FAPE) in public schools and preschool education programs in the same

manner as all other District students.

o Additionally, homeless students shall have access to other services needed to

ensure an opportunity to meet the same challenging State academic standards to

which all students are held and to fully participate in the District’s academic and

extra-curricular activities for which they meet relevant eligibility criteria. To that

end, homeless students shall not be stigmatized or segregated on the basis of their

status as homeless. The District shall establish safeguards that protect homeless

students from discrimination on the basis of their homelessness and shall remove

barriers identifying homeless children and youth.

Fieldtrips/School Social Events

• 2340 - FIELD AND OTHER DISTRICT-SPONSORED TRIPS

o Field trips should supplement and enrich classroom procedures by providing

learning experiences in an environment outside the schools, arouse new interests

among students, help students relate school experiences to the reality of the world

outside of school, bring the resources of the community - natural, artistic, industrial,

commercial, governmental, educational - within the student's learning experience,

and afford students the opportunity to study real things and real processes in their

actual environment.

o Other District-sponsored trips are defined as any planned, student-travel activity

approved as part of the District's total educational program and is under the direct

supervision and control of an instructional staff member or any advisor designated

by the Superintendent.

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• 5850 - SCHOOL SOCIAL EVENTS

o School facilities and appropriate staff will be made available for social events

approved by the principal within and outside school facilities.

• 8640 - TRANSPORTATION FOR FIELD AND OTHER DISTRICT-SPONSORED TRIPS

o Regular or special-purpose school vehicles shall be used for transportation on field

and other District-sponsored trips. These vehicles shall be owned or approved by

the District and driven by approved drivers.

Financial Obligations

• 6152 - STUDENT FEES

o The School Board may levy certain charges to students to facilitate the utilization

of adequate, appropriate learning materials used in the course of instruction.

Food & Nutrition/Wellness Policy

• 8500 - FOOD SERVICES

o The Food and Nutrition service program strives to provide school food services

consistent with the nutritional needs of students and provide school food services

that contribute to the student’s educational experiences and the development of

desirable eating habits.

• 8510 - WELLNESS POLICY

o The District is committed to providing a healthy environment for students and staff

within the school environment, recognizing that individuals must be physically,

mentally, and socially healthy in order to promote wellness and academic

performance.

o The District focuses on achieving five goals: nutrition, physical education, physical

activity: recess, health & nutrition literacy and preventive healthcare.

o The District Wellness Policy provides guidelines for food sold on campus for fund

raising activities.

• 8531 - STUDENT MEALS

o All students will receive school meals (breakfast and lunch) at no charge during

School Year 2023-2024 as the district will continue with the United States

Department of Agriculture’s Community Eligibility Provision.

Fundraising

• 5830 – STUDENT FUNDRAISING

o Student fundraising by students is limited in order to prevent disruption and

includes student solicitation and collection of money for any purpose including

collection of money in exchange for tickets, papers, or any other goods or services.

Student fundraising in school, on school property, or at any school-sponsored

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event is permitted only when the profit is to be used for school purposes or for an

activity connected with the schools.

o No student, school organization, or member of the school staff may solicit funds in

the name of the school from the public for any purpose without prior approval of

the school principal and the Region Superintendent or his/her designee. All

approvals must be in writing using the approved District forms and must be

retained at the school for audit purposes.

• 6605 – CROWDFUNDING

o Crowdfunding activities aimed at raising funds for a specific classroom or school

activity, including extra-curricular activity, or to obtain supplemental resources

(e.g., supplies or equipment) that are not required to provide a free appropriate

public education to any students in the classroom may be permitted, but only with

the specific approval by the principal and the region administrator. Crowdfunding

for specific causes requires the approval of the Superintendent or his/her

designee.

• 9211 – SCHOOL – ALLIED AND OTHER OUTSIDE SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

o The School Board appreciates the efforts of all organizations whose objectives are

to enhance the educational experiences of District students, to help meet

educational needs of students and/or provide extra educational benefits.

Health Screening

• 2410 - SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES PROGRAM

o The health services provided by the District shall supplement, not replace, parental

responsibility, and shall appraise, protect, and promote student health. These

services shall be designed to encourage parents to devote attention to child health,

to discover health problems, and to encourage the use of the services of

physicians, dentists, and community health agencies as needed.

o Vision, hearing, scoliosis, and growth and development screenings are conducted

based on mandated grade levels. Screenings do not substitute a thorough

examination in a medical providers office. Parents/guardians must provide the

school with written notification if you do not want your child to participate in the

screening program.

Homework

• 2330 - HOMEWORK

o Homework is an essential component of the learning process for students with the

assignment of meaningful learning activities. While homework should provide

opportunities for students to reinforce what is taught in the classroom, the

assignments should be based on learning outcomes that build students’

conceptual understanding, develop thinking skills, and focus on the application of

knowledge. Homework assignments should engage students in purposeful,

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relevant learning that meets their academic needs, with assignments emphasizing

quality and depth over length and repetition. Homework is not to be assigned as

punishment.

Internship

• 2424 - STUDENT INTERNSHIPS

o Student participation in an internship program authorized by the High School to

Business Career Enhancement Act may serve as a positive educational

experience and provide a foundation for future employment opportunities.

Parent Choice Student Transfers

• 2431 - INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS

o The District’s program of interscholastic athletics shall include all activities relating

to competitive sport contests, games, or events involving individual students or

teams of students from high schools in this District with those from a high school

in another district. Middle school/K-8 center athletic teams may not play out-of-

county or against out-of-county teams within the county. All students shall be

permitted to select their own school team sports activities without duress or

interference by any employee.

o All high schools may become members of and be governed by the Florida High

School Athletic Association (FHSAA) rules and regulations.

• 5120 - STUDENT SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT AND ATTENDANCE BOUNDARY

COMMITTEE

o The assignment of students to District schools shall be consistent with the best

interests of students and the best use of District resources.

• 5131 – STUDENT TRANSFERS AND CONTROLLED OPEN ENROLLMENT

O This policy governs all regular school transfers from one (1) school to another,

except for transfers to Magnet programs/schools that are subject to specific

admissions requirements and governed by School Board Policy 2370, Magnet

Programs/Schools.

O Controlled Open Enrollment allows the School District to make K-12 school

assignments using parents indicated preferential educational choice in-county and

out-of-county. This section of the policy does not apply to charter schools. Charter

schools must adopt their own controlled open enrollment plan.

O Controlled Open Enrollment is active during a specific window period between end

of year and the subsequent school year. Controlled open enrollment transfers are

subject to approval by the Region Superintendent.

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Parent Involvement

• 2111 - PARENT INVOLVEMENT– A HOME-SCHOOL-DISTRICT PARTNERSHIP

o A collaborative environment is encouraged in which the parents and families of

District students are invited and encouraged to be involved stakeholders in the

school community. This policy establishes the framework and responsibilities for

implementation of strategies to increase family and community involvement. A

copy of this policy must be distributed to all parents.

• 5780 – PARENTS’ BILL OF RIGHTS

o The Parents’ Bill of Rights contains information about School Board policies to

support strong, continuing family and community involvement in all aspects of

school programs and activities provides support for measurable improvement in

student achievement. See also https://parentsbillofrights.dadeschools.net/.

• 9210 - PARENT ORGANIZATIONS

o The Parent-Teacher/Parent-Teacher-Student Associations (PTA/PTSA) in the

District are acknowledged as sincerely interested in, and staunch supporters of

public education in Miami-Dade County.

Pledge of Allegiance

• 8810 - THE AMERICAN FLAG AND OFFICIAL MOTTO OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA

o The Pledge of Allegiance shall be recited at the beginning of the day in every

school.

o A student has the right not to participate in reciting the pledge. Upon written request

by his/her parent, the student must be excused from reciting the pledge, including

standing and placing the right hand over his/her heart.

Privacy

• 2416 - STUDENT PRIVACY AND PARENTAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION

o Parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey or evaluation created by

a third party, or any instrument used in the collection of personal information before

the survey/evaluation is administered or distributed by the school to the student.

The parent will have access to the survey/evaluation or instrument within a

reasonable period of time after the request is received by the principal.

Schools of Choice/Magnet Schools

• 2370 - MAGNET PROGRAMS/SCHOOLS

o Magnet programs/schools expand school choice, address declining enrollment,

reduce overcrowding, comply with Federal and State mandates, meet

parent/student interests, enhance education quality, and foster diverse student

enrollments. These unique educational programs operate within the District, with

extra resources and services offered to students beyond a single attendance

boundary area.

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School Transportation/Bus Safety Conduct

• 8600 – TRANSPORTATION

o Students living more than two miles from their home school will be eligible for

District-provided bus transportation. Students who attend school out of their home

school zone will not be eligible for District-provided transportation.

Exceptional Student Education/Section 504

• 2260.01 SECTION 504 PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

o A student is entitled to a free appropriate public education FAPE and may be

entitled to Section 504 accommodations if s/he has a physical or mental

impairment that substantially limits one (1) or more major life activities.

• 2460 – EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION

o The School Board shall provide a free, appropriate, public education for students

with disabilities according to State and Federal laws, rules, and regulations and

shall implement the procedures document entitled Exceptional Student Education

Policies and Procedures (SP &P).

• FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 1003.572 - PUBLIC-PRIVATE COLLABORATION

o Parents who wish to request public-private collaboration in the educational setting

should direct requests to the principal for application of District procedures.

Requests should be made in writing on District forms and specify the purpose of

the collaboration. The principal will review requests and provide approval in

accordance with statutory guidelines.

Student Activities

• 5845 - STUDENT ACTIVITIES

o All clubs and organizations approved by the principal to operate within the school

must comply with this district policy. A student who wishes to represent the school

through interscholastic competitions or performance must comply with the criteria

set forth in policy.

Student Records/Access to Student Records

• 8330 - STUDENT INFORMATION, RECORDS, AND PRIVACY RIGHTS

o In order to provide appropriate educational services and programming, the School

Board has the authority to create student educational records and is responsible

for maintaining, reviewing for accuracy, and restricting access to the records.

Continued efforts will be made to protect the accuracy and privacy of the

information contained in student educational records.

o Parents and eligible students have the right to access education records,

including the right to inspect and review those records, and have the right to waive

their access to their education records in certain circumstances. Prior written

consent of the parent, guardian, or eligible student shall be obtained prior to

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disclosing personally identifiable student information, except under certain

circumstances.

• 8350 - CONFIDENTIALITY

o A student's educational record and all personally identifiable information shall not

be properly released except on the condition that the information being

transferred will not be subsequently released to any other party without first

obtaining the consent of the parent or adult/eligible student.

Student Services

• 2290 - CHARACTER EDUCATION

o The School Board shall assist all students in developing the core values and

strength of character needed for them to become caring, responsible citizens at

home, school, and in the community. There are nine core values that form the

basis for the character education program. These values are Citizenship,

Cooperation, Fairness, Honesty, Kindness, Integrity, Pursuit of Excellence,

Respect, and Responsibility.

• 5530 - DRUG PREVENTION

o Schools shall strive to prevent drug abuse and help drug abusers through

educational means.

o The use, possession, concealment, or distribution of any drug or any drug-related

paraphernalia, or the misuse of a product containing a substance that can provide

an intoxicating or mood-altering effect or the misuse of any "over-the-counter"

medications or substances are prohibited on school grounds, on school vehicles,

and at any school-sponsored event.

Title I – Schoolwide Program

• 2261 - TITLE I SERVICES

o The School Board elects to augment the educational program of disadvantaged

students through the use of Federal funds, in accordance with the Elementary

and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965, as reauthorized under the Every

Student Succeeds Act of 2015. The ESEA is based on four (4) basic principles:

stronger accountability for results, increased flexibility and local control, expanded

options for parents, and an emphasis on proven educational methods. Parents of

participating students are encouraged to be involved in programs, activities, and

procedures that are planned and implemented to support children's academic

growth.

Technology

• 7540 – COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKS

o The School Board is committed to the effective use of technology to both enhance

the quality of student learning and the efficiency of Board operations. The School

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Board prohibits any access and use of social media by students and staff

members from the District's network, except to the District's collaboration sites

and/or approved sites as directed by the Superintendent.

• 7540.01 – TECHNOLOGY PRIVACY

o All computers, telephone systems, electronic mail systems, and voice mail

systems are the District's property and are to be used primarily for business

purposes. The District has the right to access and review all electronic and voice

mail, computer files, data bases, and any other electronic transmissions

contained in or used in conjunction with the District's computer system, telephone

system, electronic mail system, and voice mail system.

• 7540.06 – STUDENT ELECTRONIC MAIL

o This policy establishes the use of District student electronic mail (e-mail) system

by students, their parents and others and applies to any and all electronic

messages composed, sent or received by anyone using the District’s student e-

mail system. Authorized users of e-mail are students, their parents and any other

individuals or groups issued District student e-mail accounts

Threat Assessments

• FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 1006.07(7)

o The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act, among other things, requires the school

district to form Threat Assessment Teams at each school to coordinate resources

and assessment and intervention with individuals whose behavior may pose a

threat to the safety of school staff and students.

Visitors

• 9150 - SCHOOL VISITORS

o Parents, other adult residents of the community, and interested educators are

encouraged to visit schools. All visitors must present identification that will be

processed through the District’s RAPTOR system prior to being permitted entry

into the school grounds.

o The principal has the authority, however, to prohibit the entry of any person to a

school or expel any person when there is reason to believe the presence of such

person would be detrimental. If an individual refuses to leave the school grounds

or creates a disturbance, the principal is authorized to request assistance from

School Police or the local law enforcement agency to remove the individual. A

visitor’s refusal to adhere to the school principal’s directive to leave the school

grounds, will subject the visitor to arrest.

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Volunteer Program

• 2430.01 - SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS

o The School Board recognizes that certain programs and activities can be

enhanced through the use of volunteers who have knowledge or skills that will be

helpful to members of the school staff who are responsible for the conduct of

those programs and activities. A school volunteer is any non-compensated

person who may be appointed by the Superintendent or his/her designee. School

volunteers may include, but are not limited to, parents, senior citizens, students,

and others who assist the teacher or other members of the school staff.

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APPENDIX C – Parents’ Bill of Rights

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APPENDIX D – FortifyFL

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APPENDIX E – Discrimination/Harassment Poster and Policy

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DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

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DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

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