Falls Lake Academy
2024 – 2025
A place where community and education combine to celebrate each child’s
ambitions so that their full potential can TAKE FLIGHT!
Student-Parent
Handbook
1701 East Lyon Station Road ∙ Creedmoor, NC 27522 ∙ www.fallslakeacademy.com
Phone 919-964-9003 ∙ Fax 919-964-9008
FROM THE FLA CHARTER APPLICATION
“Falls Lake Academy students will be well-prepared to succeed in the academic and social rigors of higher
education. In addition, they will have the foundational skills necessary to compete in a global workforce.
Grounded in the safety of a community which values each and every one of them, students will seek ways to
serve that community. Service to their class, their school, and their wider community will be an ongoing
theme which will increase through the years. Falls Lake Academy is thrilled to play a role in the development
of the citizens who will guide the future of Granville County, the state of North Carolina, and the United
States. We invite you to join us!”
MISSION
Falls Lake Academy seeks to create a challenging learning environment while striving to meet the academic,
social, and emotional needs of our 21
st
century learners to prepare them for citizenship, leadership, and success
in a rapidly changing world. Our school promotes a safe, orderly, caring and supportive community. Each
student’s self-esteem is fostered by positive relationships with students and staff. We strive to have our
parents, teachers, and community members actively involved in our student’s learning.
FLA MOTTO
A place where community and education combine to celebrate each child’s ambitions so that their full potential
can TAKE FLIGHT.
CORE VALUES
We believe students with 21
st
century skills will become community leaders as well as global leaders.
We believe students will excel academically and socially through community outreach.
We believe students benefit from challenging experiential and traditional learning experiences.
We strive for our school to be a community of eager students, dedicated staff, and committed families
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Trey Brooks, Chair Ben Averette
Donald Ennis, Vice-Chair Magan Inscoe
Rebecca Marion, Treasurer Brian Massengil
Audrey Boone, Secretary Anastasia Council
Willie Owens
The FLA Board of Directors generally meets on the first and third Tuesdays of every month in the FLA
presentation of the learning room, unless posted and/or published in advance. In accordance with the NC Open
Meetings Law and FLA Board policy #2.3000 BOARD MEETINGS, all meetings are open to the public
except when the Board enters closed session in accordance with the law to discuss confidential matters. The
public is invited to attend all Board meetings. Visitors are allowed the opportunity to address the Board. The
Board follows Robert’s Rules of Order.
The FLA Board of Directors’ Policy Manual is posted on the FLA website (www.fallslakeacademy.com). We
encourage parents to check the policy manual whenever you have questions about a particular process or
procedure.
ADMINISTRATION
Joey Johnson, Executive Director
Leslie Morris, Director of Lower Elementary School
Ashley Keith, Director of Upper Elementary School
Lisa Mayhew, Director of Middle School
Jodi Pearson, Director of High School
2
Table of Contents
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
**LUNCH ORDERING WINDOW**
STAFF
PARENT FLA CHEAT SHEET
SCHOOL DAY HOURS:
ELEMENTARY BELL SCHEDULES
MIDDLE SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULES
HIGH SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULES
SCHOOL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
21st CENTURY SKILLS and 21st CENTURY LEARNING:
NC STANDARD COURSE OF STUDY:
GRADING SYSTEM:
GRADING: K-12 :
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING (“PBL”)
PROMOTION AND RETENTION:
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION STANDARDS
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:
INFORMATION ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL COURSES:
COURSE CREDIT/PROMOTION CRITERIA:
HIGH SCHOOL CAPSTONE PROJECT (formerly Senior Project)
EARLY GRADUATION:
GRADUATION HONORS:
JUNIOR MARSHALS:
ATTENDANCE
MAKE-UP ASSIGNMENTS:
CELL PHONE POLICY
TECHNOLOGY
COMMUNICATION
CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS
EC SERVICES UNDER THE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
FAST
FERPA – THE FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT
FIELD TRIPS
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
INCLEMENT WEATHER CLOSINGS AND DELAYS
JUPITER ED
LUNCH
NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY
EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL STUDENTS
3
NURSE/ADMINISTERING MEDICATIONS
IMMUNIZATIONS
IMMUNIZATION EXEMPTIONS
Medical Exemption
Religious Exemption
Personal Belief
Resources
PARENT INVOLVEMENT GROUPS
PARENT INVOLVEMENT HOURS
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE / NATIONAL ANTHEM
PROJECT CHILD FIND
STUDENT PARKING ON CAMPUS
VISITING OUR CAMPUS
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
HONOR CODE:
K-12 DRESS ATTIRE:
HEADWARE:
CLASSROOM RULES:
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS:
OUT-of-SCHOOL SUSPENSION:
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS:
CLASS 1 INFRACTIONS
CLASS II INFRACTIONS
CLASS III INFRACTIONS
CLASS IV INFRACTIONS
BEHAVIOR CONTRACTS:
PARENT’S BILL OF RIGHTS:
4
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
This Year’s Calendar 2024-2025
Day(s) Date(s) Calendar Event
Tuesday August 6 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Wednesday - Tuesday August 7 - 13 Teacher Workdays
Friday August 9 Student Technology Check Out, 4:00pm-6:00pm
Friday August 9 Senior Parking Permit Pick-up
Monday August 12 Kindergarten Open House, 3:00pm-5:00pm
Monday August 12 1st-5th Grade Open House, 5:00pm-7:00pm
Monday August 12 6th-12th Grade Open House, 3:00pm-5:00pm
Tuesday August 13 Junior Parking Permit Pick-up
Tuesday August 13 Student Technology Check Out, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Wednesday August 14 First Day of School for Students
Wednesday August 14 Senior Breakfast, 7:45am-8:15am
Thursday - Friday August 15 - 16 Senior Portraits, HS Gym
Saturday - Sunday August 17 - 18 Senior Paint Your Spot
Tuesday August 20 Booster Club Meeting, 6:00pm, HS Lobby
Tuesday August 20 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Saturday - Sunday August 24 - 25 Senior Paint Your Spot
Tuesday August 27 BOG 3rd Grade Testing
Thursday August 29 Junior Capstone Parent Night - Senior Project
Parent Info Session, 6:00pm, HS Gym
Thursday August 29 Senior Capstone Parent Night - Senior Project
Monday September 2 Holiday - Labor Day
Tuesday September 3 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Friday September 6 2nd Grade In-School Field Trip
Monday September 9 K-5 Curriculum Night, 1st Session 5:00pm-5:30pm,
2nd Session 5:45pm-6:15pm
Wednesday September 11 Fall Picture Day (Grades K - 11)
Friday September 13 1st Grade Community Career Day,
8:00am-10:30am
Tuesday September 17 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Friday September 20 Teacher Workday
Tuesday September 24 HS NHS Inductions, 6:00pm
Thursday September 26 Museum of Life and Science/Robertson Creek
Nature Preserve, 9:00am-4:00pm (1st Period HS
Photography Class Only)
Friday September 27 True Nutrition - Ms. Hardison’s 3rd Period Class
Only, 12:45pm-2:00pm
Friday September 27 Middle School Dance, 6:00pm-8:00pm
Friday September 27 Improve Show, 7:00pm-8:30pm, HS Gym
Tuesday October 1 3rd-8th Grade Check-Ins Reading
Tuesday October 1 National Night Out at BAP, 5:00pm-8:00pm
Tuesday October 1 Booster Club Meeting, 6:00pm, HS Lobby
Wednesday October 2 3rd-8th Grade Check-Ins Math
Friday October 4 1st Grade POL - Community, POL Room
Monday October 7 Jostens Senior Package (ordering),
11:15am-12:35pm
Tuesday October 8 End of 1st Quarter
5
Day(s) Date(s) Calendar Event
Tuesday October 8 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Wednesday - Friday October 9 - 11 Fall Break/Intersession
Monday October 14 Jostens Senior Package, 11:15am
Tuesday October 15 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Friday October 18 Kindergarten Field Trip - Hill Ridge Farm
Friday October 18 Busch Gardens Williamsburg Field Trip - Mr.
Overholt’s 1st & 2nd Period Classes Only
Friday October 18 Report cards go home
Monday October 21 Teacher Workday (K-8 Parent Conferences)
Wednesday October 23 HS PSAT
Thursday October 24 6th Grade POL, POL Room
Friday October 25 6th Grade POL Kick-Off, POL Room
Saturday October 26 Fall Festival
Wednesday October 30 Fall Make-Up Picture Day (Grades K-11)
Wednesday October 30 Senior Make-Up Picture Day
Thursday October 31 MS Science Halloween Lab, POL Room
Monday - Friday November 4 - 8 Fall Book Fair
Tuesday November 5 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Wednesday November 6 Pre ACT
Wednesday - Thursday November 6 -7 Fall Production Shows, 7:00pm
Monday November 11 Holiday - Veteran’s Day
Wednesday - Thursday November 13 - 14 4th Grade Field Trip - Old Salem
Tuesday November 19 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Tuesday November 19 Band Concert, 6:00pm
Friday November 22 Kindergarten POL - Want and Needs
Wednesday - Friday November 27 - 29 Holiday - Thanksgiving
Monday - Friday December 2 - 6 Homecoming Week
Tuesday December 3 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Thursday December 5 Art Expo, 9:00am-3:00pm
Saturday December 7 Homecoming Dance, 7:00pm-9:00pm
Wednesday December 11 Booster Club Meeting, 6:00pm, HS Lobby
Thursday December 12 1st Grade POL - Holidays Around the World, POL
Room
Friday December 13 Staff Christmas Lunch - Provided by BOD
Monday - Friday December 16 - 20 HS Exams
Thursday December 19 Kindergarten Field Trip - Marbles Kids Museum
Friday December 20 End of 2nd Quarter
Friday December 20 Early Release for students and staff
Monday - Friday December 23 - January 3 Christmas / Winter Break
Monday January 1 New Year’s Day
Tuesday January 2 Lottery Opens
Monday January 6 Teacher Workday
Tuesday January 7 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Friday January 10 Report cards go home
Tuesday January 14 3rd-8th Grade Check-Ins Reading
Wednesday January 15 3rd-8th Grade Check-Ins Math
Thursday January 16 5th Grade Field Trip - Local Government
(Hubbard/Weeks Classes)
Friday January 17 5th Grade Field Trip - Local Government
(Williams/Cooke Classes)
Monday January 20 Holiday - MLK Day
6
Day(s) Date(s) Calendar Event
Tuesday January 21 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Friday January 31 Capstone Presentations, 5:00pm
Monday February 3 Student Letters of Intent Electronically Sent to
Parents
Tuesday February 4 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Wednesday February 5 Booster Club Meeting, 6:00pm, HS Lobby
Friday February 7 PTA - Someone Special Dance (Grades K-5)
Monday February 10 HS Honor Society Inductions, 5:00pm
Wednesday February 12 Senior Movie Night, 7:00pm-9:00pm
Thursday February 13 Teacher Workday
Friday February 14 Student Letters of Intent Due
Friday - Tuesday February 14 - 18 Break/Intersession
Thursday February 20 Family Tours, 9:00am
Friday February 21 Improv Show, 7:00pm-8:30pm, HS Gym
Tuesday February 25 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Thursday February 27 8th Grade HS Info Night/Elective Showcase,
4:00pm-5:45pm
Thursday February 27 HS Senior Info Night, 6:00pm-7:00pm
Friday February 28 Kindergarten POL - Weather
Friday March 1 Lottery Closes at 5:00pm
Tuesday March 4 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Thursday March 6 Band Concert, 6:00pm
Friday March 7 Kindergarten Field Trip - Museum of Life and
Science
Friday March 7 6th Grade POL - Firebird Flea Market
Saturday March 8 Youth Mental Health/First Aid, 8:00am-4:00pm,
POL Room
Monday March 10 Spring Picture Day (K-5th, 6th-11th optional)
Monday March 10 Classroom Picture Day (K-5th)
Thursday March 13 ACT Testing
Thursday March 13 End of 3rd Quarter
Thursday March 13 1st Grade POL - Mad Science
Thursday March 13 5th Grade Field Trip - Bennett Place
Friday March 14 Teacher Workday (Faculty Group Picture @
8:15am, HS Gym)
Tuesday March 18 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Thursday - Friday March 20 - 21 MS One Acts, 7:00pm-9:00pm, HS Gym
Friday March 21 Report cards go home
Friday March 21 Lottery via Zoom @ 10am
Wednesday - Thursday March 26 - 27 8th Grade Field Trip - Washington DC
Friday March 28 Wellness Day – No School for Students and Staff
Tuesday April 1 3rd-8th Grade Check-Ins Reading
Tuesday April 1 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Wednesday April 2 3rd-8th Grade Check-Ins Math
Thursday - Friday April 3 - 4 4th Grade Field Trip - Asheville
Friday April 4 Deadline to complete enrollment forms for new
Students
Monday - Friday April 7 - 11 Senior Week
Tuesday April 8 Senior Cap & Gown Picture Day, HS Gym
Monday - Friday April 14 - 18 Spring Break / Intersession
Monday April 21 Holiday - Easter Monday
7
Day(s) Date(s) Calendar Event
Tuesday April 22 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Wednesday April 23 NJHS Inductions, 6:00pm
Thursday April 24 Senior Awards Night, 6:00pm
Wednesday - Thursday April 30 - May 1 5th Grade Field Trip - Williamsburg
Thursday May 1 Senior Walk, 9:00am
Thursday May 1 Kindergarten POL - Habitats
Thursday May 1 HS Field Day
Friday May 2 Teacher Workday
Friday - Sunday May 2 - 4 Spring Show, 7:00pm-9:00pm., HS Gym
Monday - Friday May 5 - 9 Spring Book Fair
Monday - Friday May 5 - 9 Staff Appreciation Week
Monday - Friday May 5 - 16 AP Testing
Tuesday May 6 AP Test - US Government, 12:00pm
Tuesday May 6 Rising 6th Grader Orientation, 6:00pm-7:00pm,
ES/MS Gym
Tuesday May 6 Board Meeting, 6:30pm
Wednesday May 7 AP Test - English Literature and Composition,
8:00am
Thursday May 8 1st Grade POL - Habitats
Friday May 9 AP Test - US History, 8:00am
Friday May 9 Elementary Field Day
Saturday May 10 PROM
Monday - Friday May 12 - 23 EOG / EOC / NCFE Testing
Monday May 12 AP Tests - Calc AB / Calc BC, 8:00am
Wednesday May 14 Science EOG
Wednesday May 14 AP Test - English Language and Composition,
8:00am
Wednesday May 14 Early Release for Students Only
Thursday - Friday May 15 - 16 No School for Students in Grades K - 2
Thursday May 15 Reading EOG
Thursday May 15 Early Release for Students Only
Friday May 16 Math EOG
Friday May 16 Early Release for Students Only
Friday May 16 Senior Trip
Monday May 19 Kindergarten Awards
Tuesday May 20 1st Grade Awards
Tuesday May 20 Board Meeting, 6:30pm - (if called)
Wednesday May 21 2nd Grade Awards
Thursday May 22 MS Field Day
Friday May 23 Last day of school
Friday May 23 3rd-8th Grade Awards
Friday May 23 Report cards go home (Grades K-8th)
Friday May 23 Early Release for students and staff
Monday May 26 Holiday - Memorial Day
Tuesday - Friday May 27 - 30 Teacher Workdays
Friday May 30 Graduation Practice & Luncheon, 9:00am-1:00pm
Saturday May 31 Graduation, 10:00am - HS Gym
*All PBL presentations of learning will be scheduled individually by grade level. Parents are expected to
attend PBL presentations of learning if possible. All presentation times and dates will be communicated at
least 1 week prior to the event.
8
**LUNCH ORDERING WINDOW**
Ordering Window
Opens
Ordering Window Closes
@ 12 noon
Lunches Served
September
August 19
th
August 26
th
September 3
rd
– September 30
th
October
September 17
th
September 24
th
October 1
st
-October 31
st
November-December
October 18
th
October 25
th
November 1
st
- December 19
th
January
December 2
nd
December 9
th
January 7th – January 31
st
February
January 21
st
January 28
th
February 3
rd
- February 28
th
March
February 19
th
February 26
th
March 3
rd
- March 31
st
April - May
March 18
th
March 25
th
April 1
st
- May 8
th
STAFF
Administration and Student Services
Joey Johnson Executive Director (ED)
Leslie Morris Director of Lower Elementary (DLE)
Ashley Keith Director of Upper Elementary (DUE)
Lisa Mayhew Director of Middle School (DM)
Jodi Pearson Director of High School (DH)
Elizabeth Doerfler Director of Media & Data Services
Christy Kinder Director of Exceptional Children's Program
Lisa Watkins Director of Operations
Brian Brogden Director of Facilities and Safety
Kayla Yager MTSS/Testing Coordinator
Michelle Sykes AIG Coordinator
Hannah McGarry Elementary School Counselor
Amanda Moore Middle School Counselor
Chanta Jackson High School Counselor
Alex-Clarshiaa Mosley Social Worker
Weston Pearson HS Athletic Director
Karen Teague Math Interventionist/MS Athletic Director
Tracy Holcombe Math Coach
Tori Snead Reading Intervention K-5
Heather Thrappas ESL Teacher
Lily Seccia Executive Administrative Assistant
Andrea Mennella Elementary/Middle School Receptionist
Jennifer Coker High School Receptionist
Tracey Ruffin Nurse
Nancy Pendergrass Lunch Coordinator/TA
Crystal Jones FAST Coordinator/TA
Mitchell Latta Custodian
John Pettiford Custodian
Jamesha Chisolm Custodian
Tabitha Morgan SRO
9
Lower Elementary (K-2)
Mary Tunstall Kindergarten
Anna Rivera Kindergarten
Kayla Parham Kindergarten
Patty Smoak Kindergarten
Elizabeth Pugh 1
st
grade
Jenny Hanson 1
st
grade
Danielle Harrison 1
st
grade
Molly Voss 1
st
grade
Tiffani Sykes 2
nd
grade
Rachael Fowler 2
nd
grade
Lindsey Shedd 2
nd
grade
Lisa Scott 2
nd
grade
Tabatha Boyd TA
Liz Carroll TA
Kim Frazier TA
Brittany Deane TA
Meghan Bunn TA
Crystal Jones TA
Reba Wheeler TA
Holly Newton TA
Robin Thomas TA
Brittany Wadford TA
Teresa Wadford TA
Savannah Jones TA
Elementary (K-5)
Tricia Swartz K-5 Art
Austin Denning K-5 PE
Amanda Weldon K-5 Media
Lacey McWatters K-5 Music
Tracy Hill K-5 PBL Coach
Jessica Pendergrass K-5 PBL Support Aide
Hannah Proctor Speech Pathology
Jennifer Myers EC Inclusion/Resource
Mandi Burleson-Brandt EC Inclusion/Resource
Belinda Wilkinson EC Inclusion/Resource
Tiffany Henrikson EC Inclusion/Resource
Ashley McRae EC TA
Beth Milks EC TA
Middle School (6-8)
Jessica Beal 6
th
Science
Mavis Ottley 6
th
Math
Jeff Nelson 6
th
Social Studies
Kelly Herman 6
th
ELA
Sonya Denny 7
th
Science
Lynn Ritter 7
th
Math
Samantha Denny 7
th
Social Studies
Valerie LaVersa 7
th
ELA
Janel Kelly 8
th
Science
Karen Altizer 8
th
Math
Amber Adcock 8
th
Social Studies
Cynthia Wrenn 8
th
ELA
Corrinna Sammons 6
th-
8
th
PE – Health
Dale Mettam 6
th-
8
th
Visual Art
Sydney Landers 6
th-
8
th
STEAM
Dominic Pitocco MS/HS Theatre Arts
Amanda Penn PBL Teacher
Missy Lee PBL Coach
Kelly Good EC Inclusion/Resource
Charlotte Adams EC Inclusion/Resource
Kandi Bender EC TA
High School (9-12)
Justin Rhodes History
Margaret Ohrt History
Sara Allen History
McNeill Kelley History
Victoria Johnson Math
Robyn Lockett Math
Jennifer Frederick Math
Karen Harshbarger Math
Maralie Medlin English
Jaclyn Bruno English
Carol Nelson English
Betsie Forsythe English
Lindsay Graham EC Inclusion/Resource
Lewis Wilkerson EC Inclusion/Resource
DeLois Wilkerson EC Inclusion/Resource
Amber Wood EC Inclusion/Resource
Jean Kwiatkowski EC TA
Robert Juza Science
Logan Allen Science
Logan Overholt Science
Jan Hart Science
Suzannah Price Freshman Seminar
April Black Art
Davis Lever Spanish/ Computer
Science
Toni McKoy Spanish
Dana Vaughan ASL
Weston Pearson PE / Health
Brenda Hardison PE / Health
Tucker Britt PE / Health
Paula Riddle Band / Music Teacher
10
PARENT FLA CHEAT SHEET
…YEP, YOU ARE GOING TO NEED IT!
PBL or POL = Project Based Learning or Presentation of Learning – At FLA students learn by doing
projects together. When they have completed the project, your child will then give a presentation with
their group. You should receive emails about dates and times of this happening, parents are not invited to
all presentations.
PAA = Personal Adult Advocate - They are like your homeroom teacher. This teacher is assigned to your
child and will be contacting you throughout the year to discuss how they are doing and to see if you have
any questions or concerns. PAA contacts rotate between phone calls and emails. Answer the phone when
they call. It is important. High School students have the same PAA for 4 years.
The Screamer = Monthly Newsletter that comes via Jupiter Ed and is posted on the website. The
Screamer contains a lot of relevant and important information.
This Week at Falls Lake Academy = Weekly Newsletter that comes via Jupiter Ed every Sunday night.
JupiterEd = Student\Parent website used for grades, attendance and communications - You will be
hearing the word “Jupiter” a lot. Your child should be set up with Jupiter at the beginning of the year.
With this website you can follow your child’s grades, see behavior; bad and good; email your child’s
teacher, and see homework assignments.
North Lot, South Lot = The parking lot near the high school is considered the north lot. The parking lot
near the softball field is considered the south lot. There are flags on the light poles to help you remember.
Visitors should park in the front parking spaces or in the south lot whenever possible.
GAP = Granville Athletic Park located at 4615 Belltown Road, Oxford NC 27565. FLA Varsity baseball
has its home field at the GAP.
BAP = Butner Athletic Park located at 1105 West B Street, Butner NC 27509. FLA Middle School
baseball has its home field at the BAP.
Resources for Parents
We have an app! Just search “Falls Lake Academy” in the App Store.
http://www.fallslakeacademy.com/
http://www.fallslakeacademyathletics.com/
This Year’s Calendar 2024-2025
Each specific group also has a facebook page with need to know information – LIKE the page and stay
connected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to attend the PBL\POL? Yes, a family member is expected to attend your child’s PBL\POL
presentation. Non-FLA students/children are discouraged from attending POL’s.
How is PBL\POL scheduling done? At least once per 9 weeks; the lead teacher for that 9 wks’
PBL\POL will communicate the date\times via email.
11
When and how will I hear from my child’s PAA? The PAA must touch base with you once every
month; they will contact you via phone or email. If you do not hear from your child’s PAA within the
first few weeks of school, please contact the school to double check your contact information.
Are hot lunches available? Yes, you will need to order them on-line within the designated time frame,
look for the emails. Information is on the FLA website.
How many volunteer hours do students need? It varies per grade; K, 1, 2 = 5 hrs; 3, 4, 5 = 7 hrs; 6, 7,
8, 9, 10, 11, 12= 10 hrs. This does not include hrs required by NJHS or NHS. Student hours can be at
school or in the community.
How many parent involvement hours are parents expected to complete each year? Parent
involvement hours are per family and should total 10. Parent involvement hours must be completed at
school or through school activities.
Where do I record volunteer / community service hours? Hours are recorded on our EduForm
website. The website is: tinyurl.com/flastudenthours
How do I stay informed? Pay close attention to your email! You will receive LOTS of messages so
read carefully.
Do I need a background check? Yes, if you plan on working with students for your volunteer hours, i.e
attending a field trip, or working in a classroom, or the hot lunch counter.
Is there after school care? Yes, FAST (Firebirds After School Time) – Mon thru Fri 3-6pm
I need to pick-up my child early, what do I do? Students cannot be picked up outside of the carpool
line after 2:15pm-elementary, 2:45pm-middle and 3:05pm-high school.
Is the grading system different at FLA? Yes. 90-100(M) 80-89(P) 70-79(NW) Below 70(NY).
Anything below 70 is Failing.
Carpool – where do we begin…it is different for elementary, middle and HS. Keep the hand-out. Make
sure you have your carpool code for elementary and middle school.
SCHOOL DAY HOURS:
Elementary (Grades K-5) 7:45am - 2:45pm
Middle (Grades 6-8) 8:00am - 3:15pm
High (Grades 9-12) 8:15am - 3:35pm
Students who arrive after school starts are TARDY; parents must come to the office to check them in. Students
must be in attendance the majority of the school day in order to be counted ‘Present,’ otherwise they are absent
even if they are here part of the day. The following table shows early check out guidelines:
No Early Check Out After:
Elementary 2:15pm
12
Middle 2:45pm
High 3:05pm
No students will be called to check out after 2:15pm (elementary); 2:45pm (middle school); 3:05pm (high
school) except with permission from the Executive Director or the Directors. [See “Attendance” on the
following pages for details.]
WE DO NOT EAT LUNCH AT SCHOOL ON EARLY RELEASE DAYS. FAST DOES NOT OPERATE ON
EARLY RELEASE DAYS.
ELEMENTARY BELL SCHEDULES
Elementary Specials School Schedule
3rd Grade 8:00-8:50
Kindergarten 9:05-9:55
1st Grade 10:00-10:50
2nd Grade 11:00-11:50
4th Grade 12:40-1:30
5th Grade 1:45-2:35
Elementary School Early Release Schedule
3rd Grade 8:00-8:30
Kindergarten 8:35-9:05
1st Grade 9:10-9:40
2nd Grade 9:45-10:15
4th Grade 10:20-10:50
5th Grade 10:55-11:25
Elementary 2-Hour Delay Schedule
3rd Grade 10:00-10:30
Kindergarten 10:35-11:05
1st Grade 12:30-1:00
2nd Grade 1:05-1:35
4th Grade 1:40-2:10
5th Grade 2:15-2:45
MIDDLE SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULES
Middle School Schedule
1st Period 8:00 - 8:50
2nd Period 8:55 - 9:45
3rd Period 9:50 - 10:40
4th Period 10:45 - 11:35
Lunch 11:40 - 12:30
5th Period 12:35 - 1:25
6th Period 1:30 - 2:20
7th Period 2:25 - 3:15
Middle School Early Release
1st Period 8:00-8:30
13
2nd Period 8:35-9:05
3rd Period 9:10-9:40
4th Period 9:45-10:15
5th Period 10:20-10:50
6th Period 10:55-11:25
7th Period 11:30-12:00
NO LUNCH
Middle School 2 Hour Delay
1st Period 10:00 - 10:35
2nd Period 10:40 - 11:15
Lunch 11:20 - 11:55
3rd Period 12:00 - 12:35
4th Period 12:40 - 1:15
5th Period 1:20 - 1:55
6th Period 2:00 - 2:35
7th Period 2:40 - 3:15
HIGH SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULES
High School Schedule
0 Period 7:25 - 8:10
1st Period 8:15 - 9:45
2nd Period 9:50 - 11:15
Firetime 11:20 - 11:55
Lunch 12:00 - 12:35
3rd Period 12:40 - 2:05
4th Period 2:10 - 3:35
High School Early Release
0 Period 7:25 - 8:10
1st Period 8:15 - 9:15
2nd Period 9:20 - 10:20
NO Firetime
NO Lunch
3rd Period 10:25 - 11:25
4rd Period 11:30 - 12:30
High School 2 Hour Delay
No 0 Period
1st Period 10:15 - 11:20
2nd Period 11:25 - 12:30
NO Firetime
Lunch 12:35 - 1:15
3rd Period 1:20 - 2:25
4th Period 2:30 - 3:35
14
SCHOOL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
All registration forms are completed online using SchoolMint. Every student enrolled must complete the
following registration documents before the designated deadline. Those items included in the registration
packet:
- Enrollment Contact
- Student Data Sheet
- Special Education
- Home Language Survey Form
- Photo, Print, and Publishing Permission Form
- Acceptable Internet and Technology Use
- Student Pick-up & Check-out Authorization & Emergency Contacts
- Military Connection Form
- Student Residency Questionnaire
- Middle School New Enrollee Form - if applicable
- High School New Enrollee Form - if applicable
You will also need to upload a copy of all the needed documents that are requested in the enrollment
packet: Student's Birth Certificate, Photo ID for Parent or Legal Guardian, Proof of Residence - Must
state the COUNTY you reside in, Immunization Record, Health Assessment - if requested, Most Recent
Report, Current Transcript (Grades 9-12), Guardian Documents - if applicable.
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
Students may not be dropped off before 7:15 am. High school students may not be dropped off before 7:30
(unless arriving for Zero Period class); HS students will not be allowed into the ES/MS building.
Likewise, students must be picked up by 3:15pm (elementary); 3:45pm (middle school); 4:00pm (high school)
unless they are enrolled in FAST (“Firebird After-School Time''), our after-school program, or are legitimately
involved in school-sponsored co- or extra-curricular activities. Parents of students dropped off before 7:15 am
or after their carpool pick up time listed above will be warned by Jupiter message and/or Director contact; if
too-early drop-off or too-late-pick-up continues, parents will meet with the Executive Director and risk being
referred to the Department of Social Services and/or law enforcement.
Parents of elementary and middle school students MUST bring their child to check in. Parents of elementary
and middle school students MUST come into the office to check students out of school. Students enrolled at
Falls Lake Academy, regardless of age, must be checked out by a parent or guardian. High school students
who drive can check themselves out, with prior parent permission specifically outlining the date and time of
leave. A blanket statement of permission is not adequate. You must be an adult (18 years of age or older) and
designated as an approved pickup person to check students out from school . The only exception to this is that
an authorized parent may give permission for a licensed sibling that lives in their own household and is under
the age of 18 years old can check out their sibling. No other person under 18 years old will be able to check
out any FLA students.
TRANSPORTATION: FLA provides no bus transportation. All transportation – including to and from
school as well as field trips and all other student trips – is the responsibility of the parents. Parents who are
willing to drive for field trips, athletic events, and other student activities are required to sign an insurance
release waiver assuming responsibility for the students in their vehicles and releasing FLA from responsibility
in the event of an accident or injury. The parents of students who will be riding in other parents’ vehicles to
games, field trips, etc. must likewise sign a waiver releasing both FLA and the driver of the vehicle from
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liability and responsibility except in cases of negligence. [Both waiver release forms are available in the FLA
office.]
CARPOOL PROCEDURES: All students arrive and are dismissed from school via carpool. The
Department of Transportation has specified a traffic pattern that FLA must follow to reduce the amount of cars
stacked on public roadways surrounding our campus. It is very important for families to follow the traffic
patterns during arrival and dismissal, both for the safety of our students, and for the purposes of DOT’s
requirements. A color-coded traffic map is provided to families each school year and is available on our
website. Please do not get out of your car during drop-off or pick-up. We do not allow walk-ups for drop-off or
pick-up.
Parents will not be able to park their car and help students out of the car at any time. Students should be able to
unbuckle and open/close the car door independently. School staff are not able to assist or carry students out of
the car.
ARRIVAL PROCEDURES: Middle and elementary students may be dropped off at FLA beginning at 7:15
am each morning. High school students may be dropped off at 7:30 am at the high school building. ES and
MS staff will not be in place until 7:15 am and therefore, no students should be left on campus. Parents are
required to follow the directions of the traffic team members during arrival and dismissal. Our traffic team
members are trained to keep traffic flowing while maintaining safety at all times. Please anticipate a line in the
mornings and arrive on campus accordingly. Excessive carpool lines will not be an excuse for tardy students.
The North Parking lot is student and staff parking only. Visitors and parents parking for appointments
or field trips must use the designated Visitor spots in the South Lot.
Kindergarten parents are allowed to walk their student into class for the staggered entry day and the first day of
school for ALL Kindergartners. First through fifth grade parents can walk their students into class on the first
day of school only. No Middle school students’ parents will be allowed down to the classroom prior to the start
of the day, nor allowed in the classroom at lunch, without prior permission from the Director.
FOOD IS NOT PERMITTED IN ANY FLA GYM DURING BEFORE SCHOOL OR DURING
SCHOOL HOURS. Students may not bring their breakfast into the gym or into classrooms before
school.
DISMISSAL PROCEDURES: FLA uses a code system to scan cars during dismissal. This code is used to
notify students that their ride has arrived in the carpool. Codes will be sent home with students. Families
should anticipate waiting in line for dismissal. It is important that students be picked up on time each day and
parents arrive on campus according to the following timetables. Safety is our first priority!
Parents should arrive on campus no earlier than:
Students must be picked up by:
Anytime
(2:45pm- 3:05 pm is ideal)
3:15pm
No earlier than 3:10pm
3:45pm
No earlier than 3:25pm
4:00pm
“LOST AND LONELY”: When a child is left at Falls Lake Academy past their school’s dismissal end time,
the following will result:
1. First instance, the parent is contacted and it is documented in Jupiter.
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2. Upon additional instances, the student will be sent to FAST (FLA Afterschool program) and the parent
will be charged for afterschool.
3. If FAST is not an option, students may lose future after school event privileges.
Please note that this applies to any student who stays for an after school event as well, including: office hours,
athletic events, dances etc.
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
21
st
CENTURY SKILLS and 21
st
CENTURY LEARNING:
Today’s students face a very different world than their parents faced. FLA pays close attention to learning
which prepares our students to be successful in the world of college, work, or whatever else they choose to do
when they leave us. This effort includes all the following, and more.
NC STANDARD COURSE OF STUDY:
FLA follows and is tested on the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. (http://www.dpi.state.nc.us).
Students in grades 3-8 participate in the End Of Grade tests for Reading and Math. Students in grade 3
participate in the Beginning of Grade Test for Reading. Students in grades 5 and 8 participate in the End of
Grade test for Science. North Carolina End of Course exams are given for Biology, Math I, Math III, and
English II.
CURRICULUM:
We are a non-scripted school. We acknowledge that our teachers are professionals and trust them to use
appropriate material to meet the NC Standards. Any parent can request information about their specific
curriculum during the year.
GRADING SYSTEM:
FLA students in grades (K-12) are graded on their mastery levels of the learning objectives in the various
subject areas (reading, math, etc.). Students are graded on a grading scale as follows:
Grade Meaning Numerical span
M Mastery of most subject-area learning objectives 90-100
P Proficiency on most subject-area learning objectives, but not mastery 80-89
NW Needs Work: Passing, but not yet proficient 70-79
NY Not Yet- Not passing Below 70
INC Course requirements are incomplete; student’s grade cannot be calculated*
*The grade of “INC” reverts to the grade of “NY” at the end of the term if not rectified
GRADING: K-12 :
It is our desire to use grading to drive mastery learning for the standards established for each course, provide
effective communication, and use grading to reflect proper assessments of students in their courses. For these
reasons, FLA provides retesting options, consistent grade categories and scales across grade levels, and help
according to student need.
● Grades are kept in Jupiter Ed, our online gradebook system.
● All grades should be entered into Jupiter within 5 working school days from collecting the
assignment.
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● Late assignments will be accepted and graded for full credit by the teacher for up to 5 school days for
K-8. Late assignments for high school will be accepted and graded by the teacher for up to 1 school
day. Work submitted after the assigned deadline will receive a 20% deduction. Late work will be
graded based on accuracy, in addition to the late deduction. A zero will be given for work not turned in
after 1 day.
● Students have 3 school days to make up assignments missed during an excused absence. Therefore, if a
student misses 2 days, then he/she has 6 school days upon returning to school to turn in missing
assignments. If a student was present during instruction, he or she will be expected to complete
assignments/assessments upon return to school including being prepared for a project.
● Students have 1 school day to make up missed assignments per unexcused absence. This includes
suspensions from school. Students who are suspended must be prepared to turn in assignments/take the
test on the day they return according to previously set due dates.
● If students are not completing assignments as instructed on a regular basis, parents will be personally
notified and students will be required to attend Lunch Academy and/or Firetime depending on your
school. This applies to work missing from approved absences as well.
In Grades, 3-12,
Categories:
1. 40% Major - Tests, Projects, Essays, POLs, Summative assessments
2. 60% Minor - PBL Check-ins, Quizzes, Classwork, labs, Quick-checks, Formative assessments,
Vocabulary
Testing & Retakes:
● No formative or summative assessments should be given on Monday.
● Reteach/Retake opportunities are provided for all summative assessments (including open note tests).
● For Summative assessments that are not tests (projects, essays, performances), students will be allowed
to retake/resubmit after receiving feedback.
● Re-teaching must occur prior to retake.
● The retake grade (unless it is lower than the original grade) should replace the original grade in Jupiter.
The retake grade can also replace previous quiz grades by teacher discretion.
● Retakes should be completed within 5 school days.
● Only one retake is allowed per summative assessment.
● Teachers have set parameters for retake eligibility. For example: completion of study guide,
completion of homework, attendance of tutoring, etc.
● Students may retake a summative assessment regardless of the original test grade, if they complete the
retake requirements.
Homework
● Students should have the skills to complete homework independently.
● No more than 10 problems per night should be assigned.
● Homework may be assigned for informational purposes only.
● Homework should be limited to 30 minutes per night per class. Parents/Students should be encouraged
to reach out to the teacher if homework is taking longer than 30 minutes.
● No homework should be assigned on weekends or over holidays/breaks. This includes studying for
tests/quizzes/completing study guides.
● No projects should be completed at home.
HS EXAM EXEMPTION POLICY:
For any class that has a written exam that is not an EOC, a student may qualify for an exam exemption by
meeting the criteria listed below.
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○ No more than 4 absences in the course for the semester (this includes both excused and
unexcused absences including educational and college visits).
○ No more than 3 tardies for the course for the semester.
○ Please note for exam exemption purposes, 3 tardies in a course equals an absence for that
course.
○ Students must have a mastery (90 or above) in the course.
If the class has a final project or is a performance based class with a final performance, exam exemptions do
NOT apply. Please note that school sponsored activity absences such as field trips, athletic events, and AP
testing do not count against the student’s number of absences.
REPORT CARD STANDARDS AND REPORTING
We issue report cards each quarter at our school. We provide a comprehensive report card for every student
that is designed to provide meaningful insight into your child's achievements and areas for improvement. This
is designed to ensure that you’re equipped with clear information about your child's academic journey.
Students in Kindergarten through Second Grade are provided Standards-Based Report Cards. This means that
instead of receiving traditional letter grades, parents will see an evaluation based on specific standards or
learning objectives in various subjects. These standards are aligned with state and national educational
benchmarks. You can expect to find detailed assessments in areas such as literacy, numeracy, social skills, and
more. These reports aim to provide a holistic understanding of your child’s progress and areas they excel in or
may need additional support with.
As students progress from Third grade through Twelfth grade, our reporting system transitions to subject-based
report cards. This reporting provides evaluations for each subject, usually marked with grades. These grades
reflect your child's performance in specific subjects like mathematics, science, language arts, social studies,
and more. Additionally, these reports may include comments from teachers, offering insights into your child's
strengths, areas of improvement, and suggestions for continued growth.
The report card reporting is aimed at encouraging open communication between parents and teachers. If you
have any questions or concerns about your child's progress, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teachers.
We believe that a collaborative effort between home and school is key to fostering a supportive learning
environment for your child.
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING (“PBL”)
PBL is a highly-refined system of teamwork-centered, research-using learning activities designed to bring
students into a deeper, much more thorough understanding of the subject material and the process by which
that understanding is demonstrated. Throughout the school year, parents are invited to observe their child’s
POL (Presentation of Learning) presentations. PBL presentations are graded assessment activities which count
heavily in student grading and promotion. PBL projects are graded in three categories: Content,
Collaboration, and Presentation. All three grades count in the calculation of the final grade for each project.
Students must dress appropriately for Presentations of Learning. Expectations for PBL are that students will
collaborate and be able to publicly present their findings.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION:
Student must meet the following criteria to be eligible for promotion to the next grade level:
A. Early Elementary Grades (K-2)
1. Satisfactory performance on all relevant [K-2] state literacy and math assessments
2. Satisfactory classroom performance on all teacher-initiated standards and criteria for
advancement and promotion
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3. Satisfactory performance on all quarterly PBL project content and presentations
4. Not more than 15 unexcused absences from school throughout the school year
5. Satisfactory completion of not less than 5 hours of approved school and/or community
service throughout the school year
B. Upper Elementary Grades (3-5)
1. Satisfactory performance on all relevant state assessments
2. Satisfactory classroom performance on all teacher-initiated standards and criteria for
advancement and promotion in core academic subjects
3. Satisfactory performance on all quarterly PBL project content and presentations
4. Not more than 15 unexcused absences from school throughout the school year
5. Satisfactory completion of not less than 7 hours of approved school and/or community
service throughout the school year
C. Middle Grades (6-8)
1. Passing final grades in all core academic classes and
2. Satisfactory completion of not less than 10 hours of approved school and/or community service
throughout the school year and
3. Satisfactory performance on all quarterly PBL project content and presentations and
4. Satisfactory classroom performance on all teacher-initiated standards and criteria for
advancement and promotion in core academic classes and/or
5. Satisfactory performance on all relevant state assessments and/or
6. Not more than 15 unexcused absences from school throughout the school year
D. High School (grades 9-12)
1. Course credit criteria:
a. Classification as Freshman: All students are classified as Freshmen in their first two
semesters of high school, regardless of credits earned
b. Classification as Sophomore: A student must have passed the number of unit equal to
his/her maximum potential* less than 2 units. One credit must be English I.
c. Classification as Junior: A student must have passed the number of units equal to his/her
maximum potential* less than 3 units. One credit must be English II.
d. Classification as Senior: Enough earned course credits to be within reach of graduation
by the end of that school year. One credit must be English IV.
2. Not more than 8 unexcused absences from a course throughout the semester.
3. Satisfactory completion of not less than 10 hours of approved school and/or community service
throughout the school year
*Maximum potential is defined as an individual student's opportunity to have earned high school credit. For
example, a freshman enrolled at FLA for a full academic year has the maximum potential to earn 8 credits per
year. To be classified as a sophomore, that student must pass 6 credits, one of which must be English I.
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION STANDARDS
[Board policy 3.8200 HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION AND EXIT STANDARDS]
The Board believes that Falls Lake Academy graduates should exemplify the highest standards possible in
terms of preparation for the world beyond high school including success in college and the world of work,
national and global citizenship and competitiveness, and community involvement. To that end, the Board
adopts these high school graduation and exit standards, by which FLA Directors and teachers shall determine
how graduating students shall be identified, approved, and honored as FLA graduates.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:
REGULAR COURSE OF STUDY- All FLA students will be placed on the North Carolina Future Ready Core
Diploma track and will be required to successfully complete the following NC High School and FLA required
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coursework to qualify for graduation. ( Board policy 3.8200)
Content Area
Number of Credits Required in Each Content Area
English
4 credits required
English I, II, III, IV
Mathematics
4 credits required
Math I, II, III, Course above Math III
Science
3 credits required
Environmental Science, Biology, a physical science
Social Studies
4 credits required
World History, Founding Principles USA & NC: Civic Literacy, American
History, and Economics & Personal Finance
Health and PE
1 Credit required
Healthful Living with CPR
Seminar
1 Credit Freshman Seminar or equivalent course approved by administration
for transfer students.
World Language
2 Credits required
Spanish I, II or American Sign Language I, II
Electives
Minimum 9 Credits Required
Project
Seniors must display satisfactory completion of the Capstone Project.
Total
28 Credits Required for students entering HS in 2018 – 2019 and beyond plus
completion of Capstone Project and Community Service Hours
INFORMATION ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL COURSES:
Students earn one unit of credit for each successfully completed course. There are some courses that require a
double period or full year to complete. You will find this information listed with the prerequisites. Students
receive additional credits for these courses as noted in the High School Course Selection Guide. Falls Lake
Academy High School does not grant mid-year grade promotion. Early Graduation requires prior approval.
COURSE CREDIT/PROMOTION CRITERIA:
In order for students to receive credit for a high school course, the following criteria must be met:
1. Passing final grades for high school level courses offered at FLA or approved by the FLA
administration for transfer from: other schools or colleges or NC Virtual Public School approved high
school course offerings
2. Satisfactory performance on all state-mandated End-of-Course (EOC) tests and other state-mandated
testing program requirements for graduation
3. Satisfactory performance on pre-approved PBL projects and presentations
4. Not more than 8 absences in any course [Note: more than 8 absences in any semester high school
course, or 15 absences in any year long high school course may result in the loss of credit (see Board
policies 4.2000 and 3.8101)]
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5. Satisfactory completion of not less than 10 hours of approved school and/or community service
HIGH SCHOOL CAPSTONE PROJECT (formerly Senior Project)
All candidates for a North Carolina High School Diploma from Falls Lake Academy shall successfully
complete, with satisfactory passing scores, a Capstone Project, formerly called Senior Project. The Capstone
Project shall:
1. Adhere to the standards and requirements developed for FLA Capstone Projects by the FLA Director
and high school faculty,
2. Begin in a student’s junior year with completion in a student’s senior year.
3. Contain 5 phases: Driving question, research, paper/video, project/product, and presentation,
4. Provide students a voice and choice in collaboration while allowing students to work individually or in
a group of up to 3 students,
5. Include at least one interview as a requirement of the research portion,
6. Be original pieces of research and presentation, subject to regular rules and procedures regulating all
forms of academic honesty and integrity,
7. Be presented to other HS students, families, and community members at a designated date during the
student’s senior year,
8. Carry no course credit nor individual weighted or unweighted grade; however, students will receive
numerical grades (ie: not just pass/fail).
EARLY GRADUATION:
Students who are on-track to meet graduation requirements by the end of their 7th semester in high school may
apply for early graduation at the end of that semester. Students who are approved to graduate at the end of their
7th semester shall be awarded all honors and/or recognitions due them as part of the graduating class of that
academic school year, including the privilege of walking in the graduate line at the following spring’s
commencement exercises (barring other disqualifying factors) and being named in the list of Honor Graduates,
if applicable.
GRADUATION HONORS:
Honor Graduates: Falls Lake Academy graduates shall be named Honor Graduates in three categories: Cum
Laude graduates, Magna Cum Laude graduates, and Summa Cum Laude graduates. GPA standards for each of
the three categories shall be set and periodically reviewed by the Board upon the recommendation of the FLA
high school Director, as those standards evolve in North Carolina and surrounding counties. Determination of
Honor Graduate status each year shall be determined by the students’ cumulative weighted GPAs. Honor
graduates shall be identified in the graduation line by specific regalia insignia corresponding to each category.
Valedictorian and Salutatorian: The students ranked #1 and #2 in each graduating class, respectively, shall be
named Valedictorian and Salutatorian. Both shall be afforded the privilege, barring other disqualifying factors,
to speak at Commencement. The ranking of students to determine who will be named Valedictorian and
Salutatorian shall be determined by the students’ cumulative weighted GPAs. The ranking of students to
determine who will be named Valedictorian and Salutatorian shall be determined by the students’ cumulative
weighted GPAs, out to the fourth decimal point. If the top two ranked students are tied out to the fourth
decimal point, they will both be named valedictorians and the student with the third highest GPA will be
named salutatorian.
Additional Honors: Graduates shall be recognized and awarded honors each year for the widest possible range
of academic and other significant achievements as approved by the Board upon recommendation of the chief
FLA administrator. Such recognition includes, but is not necessarily limited to, such things as the North
Carolina Academic Scholars’ seal, the International Baccalaureate and/or Advanced Placement program
diplomas, and individual FLA awards. Medals, pins, and other award insignia relating to these awards may be
worn on the students’ graduation attire as appropriate.
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JUNIOR MARSHALS:
The top 10 ranked students in each year’s Junior class shall be invited to serve as Marshalls at Commencement
Exercises for that year, barring other disqualifying factors.
ATTENDANCE
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: FIRST DAY ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY! ABSENCE ON THE
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL WILL RESULT IN THE LOSS OF A STUDENT’S ENROLLMENT SLOT!
All attendance notes must be sent to attendance@fallslakeacademy.com. Paper copies must be turned
into the K-8 or HS front office. Please also communicate the absence with your child’s PAA teacher or
classroom teachers.
Absences from school or from class, as well as tardies to school or to class, fall into two categories: excused
or unexcused. All absences from school or from class are initially recorded as “unexcused” unless and
until the school receives a doctor’s note or parent’s note within 1 school day following the absence. For
tardies, notes must be presented immediately upon arriving for a tardy indicating the reason for the
tardy and meeting the acceptable guidelines below. Notes submitted more than 1 school day after the
absence will not be accepted to excuse the absence. A parent note is accepted for sickness up to 3 consecutive
days of absence. More than 3 consecutive days of absence requires a note from a medical provider to excuse
the absence. The Executive Director and/or School Directors is/are authorized to approve changing the initial
“unexcused” designation for a student’s absence to “excused” for any of the following reasons:
A. Personal illness or injury that prevents the student from being physically able to attend school or class,
or to get there on time (* multiple day extended illness)
B. Quarantine or other isolation ordered by the local health officer or State Board of Health (*)
C. Death of a member of the student’s immediate family (ie: grandparents, parents, siblings)
D. Medical or dental appointment (*)
E. Subpoena to appear as a witness in the proceedings of a court or administrative proceeding
F. Religious observance of an event required or suggested by the students or student's parents' religion
(requires signed parent statement affirming religious affiliation)
G. Participation in a valid educational opportunity not exceeding a 5 day absence with the Principal’s prior
approval
H. Student’s pregnancy-related conditions or parenting, when medically necessary (*)
I. Any other absence specifically approved by the Director. Extra-curricular/Sports opportunities with
prior written approval of the school director are limited to 3 excused absences per year. With no prior
approval, absences will not be excused.
(*) Statement from a physician generally required
In addition, a student whose parent, legal custodian, or legal guardian is member of the uniformed armed
services on active duty and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from
deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting will be granted additional excused absences at the
discretion of the Executive Director to visit with that parent, legal custodian, or legal guardian.
Unexcused Absences and Tardies will result in missed educational learning opportunities. Unexcused
absences only allow the student 1 day per absence to make up the work.
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EXCESSIVE ABSENCES:
Parents shall be informed periodically about the status of their children’s attendance. In addition, the Board
reaffirms that class attendance and participation are critical elements of the educational process and will be
taken into account in assessing academic achievement and grade promotion.
Falls Lake Academy follows the following attendance procedures:
Elementary and Middle School: (per year total)
1. 3 consecutive absences will result in a teacher phone call to parent/guardian (Documented in Jupiter).
2. 3 unexcused absences or 6 excused absences will result in a letter to parent/guardian.
3. 6 unexcused absences or 9 excused absences will result in a letter and phone call from school social
work to parent/guardian.
4. 10 unexcused absences will result in a letter and/or attendance contract (social worker and director).
5. 15 unexcused absences will result in a letter, mandatory meeting and possible retention.
High School: (per semester)
1. 3 consecutive absences will result in a teacher phone call to parent/guardian (Documented in Jupiter).
2. 3 unexcused absences or 3 excused absences will result in a letter to parent/guardian and phone call
from school social work to parent/guardian.
3. 6 unexcused absences will result in a letter and/or attendance contract (social worker and director).
4. 8 unexcused absences will result in a letter, mandatory meeting, and students may be denied credit for
the course, regardless of their academic grade.
Specifically:
1. Parents shall be informed when their children have accumulated 3, 6, 10, and 15 unexcused absences
and 6 tardies from school and/or from any individual high school class.
2. Upon the occasion of excessive student unexcused absences, the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student
will be called in for a conference with the Director or his/her designee in which the school
administration shall seek to establish an attendance contract to eliminate further unexcused absences.
Eventually, if that plan does not work, and/or not earlier than the occasion of the 10
th
unexcused
absence, the parent(s)/guardian(s) may be referred to the district attorney of the county in which they
are domiciled for failure to comply with the NC Compulsory Attendance Law.
3. Students shall be subject to escalating disciplinary actions and penalties, possibly including but not
limited to those described above/below, when they exceed 5 unexcused tardies (and thereafter) to
school or to any individual class.
4. Students may be retained in their current grade levels, non-promoted to the next grade, when they
exceed 15 unexcused absences from school for Elementary and Middle School, regardless of their
academic grade.
5. In the case of high school courses, students shall be denied credit for the course when they exceed 8
unexcused absences, regardless of their academic grade.
6. When all other attempts to alleviate a student’s chronic unexcused truancy (defined as unexcused
absences and/or tardies to class or to school) have failed, the Executive Director may recommend to the
Board the permanent expulsion of the student from Falls Lake Academy on the basis of repeated
insubordination and/or non-compliance with the NC Compulsory Attendance Law, which shall be
considered a deliberate surrender of the student’s enrollment slot by the student’s parent(s).
EXCESSIVE TARDIES:
Students are allowed 5 unexcused tardies per semester. Tardies are only excused by statement from the School
Director as a result of a school-wide impact event or with a note from a medical provider or court for court
proceedings. Parent/Guardian notes are not accepted to excuse tardiness. Schoolwide tardies can be excused by
Director, ie. traffic accidents, weather related, etc.
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Elementary/Middle School
Number of Unexcused Tardies:
Consequence Assigned:
6 Unexcused Tardies
Meeting with school social worker and parent
8 Unexcused Tardies
Referral to Director, 1 Day OSS
10 Unexcused Tardies
1 Day OSS
12 Unexcused Tardies
1 Day OSS
14 Unexcused Tardies
1 Day OSS
16 Unexcused Tardies
Referral to Board of Directors, possible expulsion
High School
Number of Unexcused Tardies:
Consequence Assigned:
6 Unexcused Tardies
Referral to Director, Lunch Detention
7 Unexcused Tardies
Referral to Director, Loss of parking pass (5 days) or
Lunch Detention (5 days)
8 Unexcused Tardies
Referral to Director, Loss of parking pass (5 days) or
Lunch Detention (5 days)
9 Unexcused Tardies
1 Day OSS
10 Unexcused Tardies
1 Day OSS
12 Unexcused Tardies
1 Day OSS
14 Unexcused Tardies
1 Day OSS
16 Unexcused Tardies
Referral to Board of Directors, possible expulsion
Early Dismissals/Check-Out for High School:
Students are allowed 5 unexcused early dismissals per semester per class. Early dismissals are only excused
with a note from a medical provider or court for court proceedings within 1 day of early dismissal.
Parent/Guardian notes are not accepted to excuse early dismissals. Notes must be brought to the HS front
office.
Note: This does not apply when students are leaving early for school sponsored events.
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Number of Unexcused Early
Dismissals:
Consequence Assigned:
6 Unexcused Early Dismissals
Referral to Director, Lunch Detention
7 Unexcused Early Dismissals
Referral to Director, Loss of parking pass (5 days) or
MAKE-UP ASSIGNMENTS:
Students have 3 school days to make up assignments missed during an excused absence. Therefore, if a
student misses 2 days, then he/she has 6 school days upon returning to school to turn in missing assignments. If
a student was present during instruction, he or she will be expected to complete assignments/assessments upon
return to school including being prepared for a project.
Students will have 1 day after returning from an UNEXCUSED absence to complete any missed work. This
includes suspensions from school. Students who are suspended must be prepared to turn in assignments/take
the test on the day they return according to previously set due dates.
If a student is missing class for a school sponsored activity such as an athletic event or field trip, the student
should communicate with the teacher prior to the planned absence and coordinate make-up work as soon as
possible. The 3 day policy is not applicable. Please note, students may need to use class time from the class
who the field trip was with or time from athletics practices to get work made up as soon as possible.
CELL PHONE POLICY
Students may not use cell phones/smart watches/airpods/earbuds during the instructional day unless
directed to by a teacher or member of Administration. Staff members may give students permission to call
or text parents during the school day due to an emergency and schedule changes. Students may ask a staff
member for permission to use their cell phone/smart watch during the school day. Elementary and Middle
School students should not have cell phones or watches powered on during school hours. Elementary and
Middle School students are encouraged to not bring cell phones or smart watches.
Absolutely no cell phone recordings, pictures, posting on social media, tik toks should occur during the school
day. This will be a violation of the cell phone policy and will be subject to disciplinary action.
Parents should have no expectation of reaching their students via text or cell phone during school hours.
Students must follow rules and procedures for cell phones as defined in the FLA ACCEPTABLE INTERNET
AND TECHNOLOGY USE & INTERNET SAFETY AGREEMENT. Cell phones/smart watches must be
turned off and placed in classroom cell phone pockets for the duration of class. Failure to do so will result in a
consequence and/or confiscation. The instructional day for Elementary school starts at 7:45am and ends at
2:45pm; Middle school starts at 8:00am and ends at 3:15pm; High school starts at 8:15am and ends at 3:35pm.
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Lunch Detention (5 days)
8 Unexcused Early Dismissals
Referral to Director, Loss of parking pass (5 days) or
Lunch Detention (5 days)
9 Unexcused Early Dismissals
1 Day OSS
10 Unexcused Early Dismissals
1 Day OSS
12 Unexcused Early Dismissals
1 Day OSS
14 Unexcused Early Dismissals
1 Day OSS
16 Unexcused Early Dismissals
Referral to Board of Directors, possible expulsion
See discipline policy for consequences.
TECHNOLOGY
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): FLA High School students are permitted and highly encouraged to bring
their own computers to school. If students choose to bring their device, it must be an operational laptop. The
only specifications needed for the computer is it has to be able to access the internet and have a minimum
screen size of 9 inches. Students will be required to have Chrome on their computers. Only one device per
student (their computer) will be added to the school network for Wi-Fi access.
Chromebook Checkout: If students do not have access to a computer that they can bring to school, students
will be able to check out a Chromebook for the year. Students and parents will need to read, sign, and agree to
the Student Technology Acceptable Use Policy in order to check out a computer. It is expected that this
computer be brought to school each day. Day-user computers will not be available for checkout in the high
school.
Student Technology Acceptable Use Policy: All students are expected to abide by the guidelines set forth in
the Student Technology Acceptable Use Policy. This policy is designed to promote the legal, ethical, and
responsible use of devices, software, and online accounts. Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary
action as stated in the FLA discipline policy.
GoGuardian: Falls Lake Academy has adopted online services provided by GoGuardian in order to help
protect students against harmful and inappropriate online material; help students stay more focused when
learning online; help assess students’ progress towards class assignments; and facilitate communication
between teachers and students during class time. GoGuardian’s web-based services operate when a student is
signed in to their school managed account while using a supported device (i.e., when a student is logged into
their school email address). Falls Lake Academy utilizes GoGuardian on Chromebooks, iPads, Macbooks, and
Windows Devices. GoGuardian is used to help protect students whenever they are signed into their school
Google account or using a school device. A school session indicator (school house icon) appears in the
student’s browser when GoGuardian is active to help students understand when GoGuardian is “on”. Because
monitoring is done through students' Google accounts, all students are required to use Chrome and their Falls
Lake Academy Google account during class time. Attempts to by-pass the monitoring or filtering may result
in disciplinary action as stated in the FLA discipline policy.
COMMUNICATION
Our students’ parents are our partners in the education of our kids. Keeping parents informed of their student
progress is essential. All teachers are expected to incorporate the following elements of communication into
their regular, routine procedures. When parents call or email, teachers and Directors should respond within a
24-hour period. This does NOT apply to weekends or holidays. Ways we may communicate with parents and
our community: message through Jupiter Ed, Google Classroom email, phone calls, conferences, etc.
PAA (Personal Adult Advocate) Contacts- PAA contacts are made ONCE A MONTH with a phone call
/conference or Jupiter email home. This should be documented in Jupiter for all grade levels. This is
mandatory.
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CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS
Apart from directory information, personally identifiable information about a student shall not be released
from a student’s record without the prior written consent of the parent or emancipated student, except to
authorized school personnel and others who are identified in state and federal law, NC State Board of
Education policy, and/or FLA Board of Directors policy to have access to such records. Prior written consent
for the release of personally identifiable information must be signed and dated by the parent or emancipated
student and must specify the records that may be disclosed, the purpose of the disclosure, and the party or class
of parties to whom the disclosure may be made. [Legal reference: G.S. 115C-402; 20 U.S.C. 1232g.]
COUNSELING SERVICES
The School does not prohibit school employees from notifying a parent about their child's mental, emotional,
or physical health or well-being or a change in related services or monitoring.
The School does not encourage or have the effect of encouraging a child to withhold from that child's parent
information about their mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being or a change in related services or
monitoring.
School personnel shall not discourage or prohibit parental notification of and involvement in critical decisions
affecting a student's mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being except where a reasonably prudent
person would believe that notification would result in the child becoming an abused juvenile or neglected
juvenile, as those terms are defined in G.S. 7B-101 or jeopardize the student’s safety.
Notifications:
a. At the beginning of each school year, our School Counselors will notify parents about each healthcare
service offered at the school and provide information on how parents can consent to such service.
School Counselors will notify parents of changes, prior to or contemporaneous with changes, in service
or monitoring related to their child’s mental, emotional, or physical health or wellbeing and the school’s
ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for that child. (§115C-78.45)
b. Our School Counselors shall notify parents of kindergarten through grade three students of any student
well-being questionnaire or health screening form prior to administration and shall provide information
on how parents can consent to such questionnaire or health screening.
c. Our School Counselors shall provide notice of a change prior to any changes in the name of a pronoun
used for a student in school records or by school personnel except where a reasonably prudent person
would believe that notification would result in the child becoming an abused juvenile or neglected
juvenile, as those terms are defined in G.S. 7B-101 or jeopardize the student’s safety.
CURRICULUM
Our school allows our teachers to select the curriculum they use in the classroom as long as they are using it to
meet the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. Parents are encouraged to schedule a meeting with teachers
to review any materials that will be used in the classroom if they desire.
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EC SERVICES UNDER THE INDIVIDUALS
WITH DISABILITIES ACT
FLA provides a free and appropriate publicly supported education, in the least restrictive appropriate
environment, to every enrolled child with special needs. FLA complies with the State Board of Education’s
Procedures Governing Programs and Services for Children With Special Needs and with the Individuals With
Disabilities Act and its implementing regulations.
At FLA, we will also advocate for, inspire, and meet the needs of gifted students. Academically or
intellectually gifted students require differentiated educational services beyond those ordinarily provided by
the regular educational program. Outstanding abilities are present in students from all cultural groups and
across all economic strata.
Every child suspected of having a disability is entitled to a multidisciplinary diagnosis and evaluation. All
testing and evaluation materials and procedures will be nondiscriminatory, administered in the child’s native
language. Parents will be invited to participate in every step of the evaluation and identification process.
Based upon the evaluation, FLA staff will work with the parents to develop an Individualized Education Plan
(“IEP”).
Every child who thinks with more complexity and abstraction and learns at faster rates when compared with
others of their age, experience, or environment is entitled to evaluation. Parents and FLA staff can nominate a
student for evaluation. Nominated students will be assessed using a test of cognitive abilities, standardized
achievement tests, and school-based assessments. Nomination forms as well as the local AIG plan and the AIG
handbook for FLA can be found on our website under Links- AIG Plan and AIG Program Guide.
FAST
FLA offers an after school care program (“FAST,” for Firebird After-School Time) which is fully funded
through fees paid by the parents. FAST is available from 2:45-6:00 pm every school day, EXCEPT on early
release days. Information about FAST program elements and fee structures is available in the FLA office.
FAST will not operate on early release days.
FERPA – THE FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS
AND PRIVACY ACT
Parents have the right to inspect and review their child’s education records at any time by requesting to do so
via a written request to the Principal. Parents may seek amendment of the student’s records which they believe
to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. Parents may decline to
consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records,
except to the extent that the Act authorizes disclosure without consent. Parents may file with the Department
of Public Instruction a written complaint concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the
requirements of this Act. Parents may opt out of their child’s participation in a protected information survey
under PPRA.
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FIELD TRIPS
All adult attendees must have passed a background check before attending a field trip. Background
checks should be completed and on file 3 school days prior to the field trip. Parents are responsible for
paying and submitting the school approved background check.
TRANSPORTATION:The trip leader is responsible for arranging transportation for all field trips, which
typically takes one of two forms: private car caravan or charter bus.
a. Private car caravan trips require all drivers to complete and sign an FLA Driver’s Transportation Waiver if
they will be carrying any students other than their own children.
b. All parents who drive students other than their own children are considered official trip chaperones and
must serve in that capacity. Parents may not elect to drive over riding in a chartered bus if they wish to
attend a field trip.
CHARTER BUS: When taking a charter bus trip, all attendees are required to ride the bus, and all parents on
the bus must be designated as official chaperones. Parents will not be permitted to follow the bus on charter
bus trips. The trips are designed with students in mind and our itineraries are important to the success of the
trip.
CHAPERONES: Trip chaperones are not permitted to bring any other children along, regardless of age. All
Chaperones are expected to mimic the professionalism of FLA staff while on the trip. Parents are expected to
participate and be involved in the learning opportunities during the field trip (Note: this provision applies
to FLA “staff kids” as well.) (re: State insurance policy.) FLA asks that adult attendees follow FLA Dress
Code policies. Parents are prohibited from using inappropriate language and consuming alcohol, smoking or
vaping. Parents are prohibited from allowing students to participate in unauthorized activities not included on
the itinerary (ie: swimming, attending additional activities, etc.)
PAYMENTS: Once the stated deadline for finalizing payment for field trips has passed (including all costs for
either caravan or bus charter trips), parents and students who originally signed on as trip chaperones are not
entitled to refunds at school expense if they withdraw from planned trip participation.
ATTENDANCE IMPACT: Students on an official field trip roster who do participate in the field trip are
considered “present in class” while on the trip, and are to be entered into PowerSchool and all their teachers’
attendance records as such.
Students who are not on an official field trip roster who show up to a field trip location without permission will
be marked absent from school. In addition, they will be subject to disciplinary action.
Any violation of the above may result in dismissal from the field trip and/or revoked field trip
participation for future field trip(s).
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
The FLA Board of Directors, recognizing that sometimes there is no way to handle differences, complaints, or
concerns except through a formal grievance process, has adopted Board policy 1.7500-7.1500, GRIEVANCE
PROCEDURES, to address such circumstances. The policy provides the following process for handling issues
and concerns which require such a formal process. This is also applicable for any concern around curriculum
or literary materials related to the school.
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1. Talk to the teacher. In most cases, differences and concerns can be handled by each student’s teacher.
FLA teachers are educational professionals whose focus is the best interests of their students. More
than likely, they can and will work through your concerns with you until the issue is resolved.
Facebook and social media posts are not an effective way to solve your issue.
2. If you cannot work it out with the teacher, the next step is your child’s PAA. No one at FLA knows
your child better than his or her PAA, and he/she will be in the best position to help resolve any
conflict.
3. If working with your child’s teacher doesn’t work, go to the Director of your child’s school. Their first
question will be, “Have you talked with the teacher?” Second question is similar: “Have you talked
with your PAA?” If you haven’t done so, you’ll probably be asked to go back and try those steps. But
then, once you have already done steps one and two, it’s time for the Director to get involved.
4. When you cannot resolve your issue with the Director, bring it to the Executive Director.
5. File a formal grievance with the Falls Lake Academy Board of Directors. All formal grievances must
be filed in writing within 20 days of the Executive Director’s notification of their findings and/or steps
in response to your conversation(s) with him/her at Step Four. All formal grievances must include the
following information:
a. Name of the staff member or other person whose decision or action is at issue, or against whom
the grievance is being filed.
b. Specific decision(s), action(s), or physical condition at issue.
c. The Board policy, state or federal law or regulation, or State Board of Education policy or
procedure which you believe has been misapplied, misinterpreted, ignored, or violated.
d. Specific resolution which you desire.
e. Once a formal written grievance is filed within the 20-day time limit which contains all the
above pertinent information, the Board will respond within 10 days with a written response.
6. In the unlikely event that the Board’s response does not resolve the issue, you are entitled to an Appeal.
Such appeals must be filed in writing within 5 days of your receipt of the Step Five response. The
Board may either convene a full Board hearing or consider the Appeal in a regular or called meeting, at
its discretion. Once the Board considers an Appeal, its subsequent decision is the final administrative
remedy and the resulting decision is final.
We hope the Grievance Procedure is never needed. But if you need it, it’s there for your use. Thank you
for working with us to resolve our differences peacefully and professionally!
INCLEMENT WEATHER CLOSINGS AND
DELAYS
FLA does not necessarily close school, delay the opening of school, or dismiss school early just because
Granville, Durham, Wake, or other school systems in this area make those calls for their own schools. We are
separate and independent from all area school systems, and we make our own decisions about closings and
delays. When the weather is bad, we will send out a notice via Jupiter Ed and automated phone calls with the
current information listed in Jupiter Ed. We will also post FLA weather-related closings and delays on our own
website (www.fallslakeacademy.com), on WRAL-TV Channel 5, and social media. PLEASE USE YOUR
BEST JUDGMENT WHEN MAKING WEATHER RELATED TRAVEL DECISIONS. All weather related
absences and tardies are considered excused.
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JUPITER ED
Grading and data management is done through Jupiter Ed. Parents are expected to check Jupiter Ed at least
once per day. This is Falls Lake Academy’s primary method of communication with parents regarding grading,
attendance, behavior and general information. It is required that parents have access to this and use it routinely.
You will be contacted by your PAA if you are not accessing Jupiter on a regular basis.
LUNCH
FLA has no cafeteria and does not participate in the federal school lunch program. FLA students eat lunch in
their classrooms under the supervision of their own teachers. There are two options for lunch at FLA:
1. Bring lunch from home;
2. Pre-order and pre-pay catered lunches approximately a month at a time (in advance) through our
online system. To order lunches go to www.orgsonline.com and enter code 313FLANC or see
information distributed during Intake/Open House about the online lunch ordering system.
Students are not permitted to have lunch delivered by outside delivery services (ex. Uber Eats, Door Dash,
Pizza Delivery, etc.). Students should not have lunch dropped off daily. After 3 lunches are dropped-off, the
student will be referred to the school social worker.
Please contact the school social worker if your family is experiencing food disparity.
HIGH SCHOOL OFF CAMPUS PRIVILEGES
Juniors and Seniors are permitted to go off campus for lunch Tuesdays-Fridays with parental permission and
Mastery or Proficiency in all classes. Students must also create a lunch pass and be checked prior to leaving
campus. No students are allowed to go off campus on Mondays as Monday is a closed campus day for high
school. Juniors and Seniors should plan to buy or bring their lunches every Monday. Students who are not
eligible to go off campus due to it being a closed campus day or grades, discipline, etc. may not have their
parent call/email to sign them out for lunch and sign them back in after lunch. This includes freshman and
sophomores and is true for every day of the week. If a student is signed out for lunch, they can not sign back
in for the rest of the day. This will be counted as an unexcused absence unless they return with a note from a
medical provider.
If a student is assigned lunch detention for the day, they may not go off campus for lunch during firetime on
their assigned lunch detention day.
NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY
EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR
ALL STUDENTS
FLA does not discriminate against students based on race, sex, religion, creed, ability, disability, or national
origin. FLA provides equal opportunity in school admissions, academics, electives, and extracurricular
activities for which students qualify. If students or parents believe that FLA has violated this policy by
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denying equal treatment or access, they may notify the Board of Directors, who are authorized to investigate
and, where appropriate, to resolve such concerns.
NURSE/ADMINISTERING MEDICATIONS
All medications administered at school must be furnished by parents. All prescription medications must be
prescribed by a licensed health care professional and must come to school in containers labeled with the
student’s name, the name of the medication, the time to be given, the dosage, and the name of the prescriber.
Over the Counter Medications must be in their original unopened packages and must be labeled with the
student’s name, dosage, and time(s) of administration. ALL medication and taking of medication must be done
in the office with school administration or nurse present.
If a student is involved in an accident, is injured, has an emergency, or becomes ill, school officials will always
contact parents or, if the parents are unreachable, one of those adults designated by parents as an emergency
contact. Students can return to school after 24 hours vomit and fever free (without fever reducing
medication).
Students that are sick should remain at home. This includes students with fevers over 100 degrees, stomach
issues such as vomiting or diarrhea, or strep throat.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Falls Lake Academy, the Center for Disease Control, and our state health policies support being active in
getting vaccinations. Please read the link below for information on diseases and their vaccines. I have listed
those required and recommended. If you have chosen not to give your child vaccines for medical or religious
reasons, please email Nurse Ruffin and let her know immediately. Keep in mind that we do have several
children with compromised immune systems that these diseases can have a deadly effect on.
Required Immunizations
IMMUNIZATION EXEMPTIONS
North Carolina law provides for two types of exemptions from required immunizations. They are medical and
religious.
Medical Exemption
G.S.130A-156. Medical exemption.
The Commission for Public Health shall adopt by rule medical contraindications to immunizations
required by G.S. 130A-152. If a physician licensed to practice medicine in this State certifies that a
required immunization is or may be detrimental to a person's health due to the presence of one of the
contraindications adopted by the Commission, the person is not required to receive the specified
immunization as long as the contraindication persists. The State Health Director may, upon request by a
physician licensed to practice medicine in this State, grant a medical exemption to a required
immunization for a contraindication not on the list adopted by the Commission.
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Medical exemptions can only be requested by a physician licensed to practice medicine in North
Carolina. If a physician determines the need to request a medical exemption from a required
immunization for a patient and needs assistance, they should contact the North Carolina Immunization
Branch at (919) 707-5550.
■ (08/03/2020)Revised Medical Exemption Statement and Physician’s Request for Medical
Exemption Forms Memo
■
Medical Exemption (PDF, 170 KB) (DHHS 3987)
Use this form for true contraindications, i.e. those recognized by the Commission for Public Health.
■ Physician’s Request for Medical Exemption (PDF, 136 KB) (DHHS 3995)
Use this form for contraindications not recognized by the Commission for Public Health.
Religious Exemption
G.S.130A-157. Religious exemption
If the bona fide religious beliefs of an adult or the parent, guardian or person in loco parentis of a child are
contrary to the immunization requirements contained in this Part, the adult or the child shall be exempt
from the requirements. Upon submission of a written statement of the bona fide religious beliefs and
opposition to the immunization requirements, the person may attend the college, university, school or
facility without presenting a certificate of immunization.
There is no form for requesting religious exemptions in North Carolina. To claim a religious exemption,
the parent or person requesting the exemption must write a statement of their religious objection to
immunization, including the name and date of birth of the person for whom the exemption is being
requested. This statement would then be provided to schools, child care programs, camps, etc. in place of
an immunization record. If a family is requesting a religious exemption for more than one child, a separate
statement should be prepared for each child. Statements of religious objection to immunization do not
need to be notarized, signed by a religious leader, or prepared by an attorney. They do not need to be
submitted to the state for review or approval.
Personal Belief
10A NCAC 41A .0403 Non-Religious Personal Belief No Exemption:
Except as provided in G.S. 130A-156 and G.S. 130A-157, and 10A NCAC 41A .0404 and .0405, no child
shall be exempt from the requirements of 10A NCAC 41 .0401; there is no exception to these
requirements for the case of a personal belief or philosophy of a parent or guardian not founded upon a
religious belief.
Resources
Additional text from North Carolina rules and laws on immunizations, including text suitable for printing,
can be found on our N.C. Rules and Laws page.
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PARENT INVOLVEMENT GROUPS
PARENT - TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA): The FLA PTA is associated with the NC PTA. The PTA is
the official parent support organization: they design and implement all organized parent support events and
activities. Parents who wish to be involved in the planning and decision-making concerning parent support
events and activities are encouraged to join the PTA and pay their membership dues. The PTA meets once
each month, sometimes more often. PTA officers are elected from among the dues-paying PTA membership
each spring for the following year.
FLA FIREBIRD FLIGHT CREW: The FLA Firebird Flight Crew is the parent booster club for FLA
athletics. See the “Athletics” tab on the FLA website (www.fallslakeacademy.com) and follow the links for
complete and detailed information about Firebird teams.
FLA ARTS BOOSTER CLUB (FLAART): FLAART is the parent booster club for FLA arts programming.
See the “Arts'' tab on the FLA website (www.fallslakeacademy.com) and follow the links for complete and
detailed information about Firebird arts programs.
BAND BOOSTER CLUB: The Band Booster Club is the parent booster club for FLA Band. See the “Arts”
the FLA website (www.fallslakeacademy.com) and follow the links for complete and detailed information
about Firebird band programs.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT HOURS
Falls Lake Academy welcomes and encourages parent volunteers as it’s an important component in the
education process. We believe parents enhance the learning experiences for students. The more you know
about what takes place with your child’s education, the more you can continue and expand upon the learning at
home. Your involvement helps us to maintain a safe, secure and nurturing learning environment for all of our
students and staff. Firebird families are required to complete 10 hours of involvement time at Falls Lake
Academy each year. Parent hours must be submitted online.
We really value our parents being involved in their students' education. Something that is unique to our FLA
environment is having parents present on campus and involved in the place that their child spends the majority
of every day. The purpose of requiring involvement hours is for parents to be involved in their students'
education, not to get adults volunteering more in the general community. We would like for parents to
understand that parent involvement hours are in place for the benefit of our students. There is a lot of research
out there that supports the importance of parents being actively involved in their students' education. When
parents are physically present on school campus it shows their personal child and other students that their
education is valued. Visitors who have contact with and/or interact with the kids directly are required to
have a background check on file.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE / NATIONAL
ANTHEM
(§36 USC 301, 2007)
Students at Falls Lake Academy will have the opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to our Flag each
day during morning announcements. When saying the Pledge of Allegiance, citizens of all ages should stand
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at attention, facing the flag, and salute by placing the right hand over the heart. Hats should be removed.
When in uniform, military personnel, firefighters, and law enforcement officers give a military salute. Veterans
and service personnel out of uniform may give the military salute or place the right hand over the heart.
Everyone, even very young children, should rise, remain standing, and salute by placing the right hand over the
heart during the playing of The Star-Spangled Banner — first note to last.
If you are on the way to your seat at a sports event, or in any public place, and the first strains of the Anthem
are heard, stop where you are and stand at attention until the end. Don't talk, chew gum, eat, or smoke during
the singing or playing of the Anthem.
[NOTE: Students with religious or nationalism objections to participation in the Pledge or the demonstration
of respect for the Anthem are not required to recite or participate in our demonstrations of respect, but they
may not disrupt or create disturbances when other students are doing so.]
PROJECT CHILD FIND
What is Project Child Find? Project Child Find is an effort coordinated by Falls Lake Academy and the
Exceptional Children’s Program Division of the NC State Department of Public Instruction, to:
1. Locate and identify children and youth ages birth through 21 with disabilities who are in need of
special education and related services.
2. Inform parents and/or guardians of the services available from Falls Lake Academy and other state and
community agencies.
Who are the Children? Children and youth who have been diagnosed or are suspected to have intellectual,
physical, or emotional disabilities and are unable to benefit from a regular school program without special
assistance.
What Help is Available? A complete evaluation and, if appropriate, an Individualized Education Program for
children with a disability beginning at age three; an Individual Family Service Plan for each child with a
disability birth through 2; or a referral to other agencies when needed.
How Can I Help? If you know of a child or youth with disabilities who is not in school or receiving special
assistance, you can help by: Giving a copy of a brochure to the parents or guardians of the child,
encouraging the parent/guardian to contact the FLA Director, Exceptional Children’s Program Coordinator, or
the Exceptional Children’s Program Division of the NC Department of Public Instruction, and lending support
to the child and his/her parents/guardians until the referral is completed.
Why Should I Help? A free appropriate public education is the right of every child with a disability, age 3
through 21. The law provides for early intervention services for children with a disability, birth through two
years of age. Parents of children and youth with disabilities need your support and assistance. Falls Lake
Academy and the Exceptional Children’s Program Division need your help in locating these children. Without
your help, children with disabilities may not be found.
STUDENT PARKING ON CAMPUS
Driving and parking on school property is a privilege and may be revoked at any time if abused. The following
regulations will be used to guide appropriate student conduct while operating a vehicle on campus.
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1. Registration: All student vehicles must be registered in the office to receive a parking permit. The fee
for this is $50.00. Students must place this school issued parking permit (hanging tag) from the mirror
of their vehicle and it must be visible at all times while parked on campus. This permit entitles the
owner to park in their assigned space from the start of school to the end of the school day. After school
hours, all spaces in the North Lot become first come first serve. You must purchase additional parking
permit hanging tags for additional vehicles you plan to drive on campus, for a cost of $5.00 each.
2. Rules:
a. No parking in faculty, bus-loading zones, on sidewalks, in fire lanes or designated handicapped
spaces, on the grass, or visitor parking spaces.
b. No parking without a parking permit. A parking permit hanging tag must be visible (hanging
from mirror) at all times while parked on campus. You are responsible for purchasing additional
permits for a cost of $5.00 each for additional vehicles driven to campus. If a parking permit is
lost, you must purchase a new one for $5.00 each.
c. No parking in more than one parking space.
d. You must park in your assigned space only.
e. No loud sound system.
f. No revving of engines or anything else that causes a loud noise/disruption.
g. No display of obscene, indecent or offensive language or symbols written on or affixed to the
vehicle.
h. No running stop signs.
i. No speeding in the parking lot.
Any student who receives any parking infraction, including: failure to obtain a parking permit, parking in an
unapproved/unassigned location, failure to display parking permit, attempts to purchase an additional parking
permit for false or fictitious purposes, or any violation of the rules listed above will be subject to the following
consequences:
● First Offense: Warning; parent contact; possible 1-5 days silent lunch; SRO notification; possible 1-10
days OSS
● Second Offense: Referral to Director; parent contact; SRO notification; 5 days suspension of parking;
possible 1-10 days OSS
● Third Offense: Referral to Director; parent contact; SRO notification; 1-10 days OSS; Possible
permanent loss of parking pass for the year.
3. Overnight Parking: Vehicles may not be left in the parking lot overnight without special permission
from the Director of High School.
4. Fees: Each vehicle used by a student must be registered at the beginning of each school year or when
acquired. If a student gets a new car, the new car must be registered with the school before driving on
campus. A student is subject to only one $50.00 fee per year.
5. Allocation: Parking spaces will be allocated based on the following criteria:
a. Students with physical disabilities
b. Students who are participating in off campus learning or internships
c. Seniors
d. Juniors
e. Any licensed sophomore (will not be considered until after first semester)
37
6. Parking Permits: In the event that a student does not have their parking permit in their car for the day,
the student must immediately report this to the HS front office. Failure to do so will result in a parking
violation. Students may be required to purchase an additional permit for $5. See number 2 above.
7. Someone in Your Parking Spot: In the event that someone else is parked in your assigned parking spot,
the student must immediately report this to the HS front office so the office can get this resolved. Do
not park in someone else’s parking spot as this continues to cause problems.
8. Accidents: Any accident, vandalism, theft or other violation of the Falls Lake Code of Student
Conduct, no matter how minor, must be reported to the front office of the high school.
9. Speed Limit: All students will follow the 5 M.P.H. speed limit at all times while on campus.
10. Location: High school students will park only in the North Lot closest to Green Road in their assigned
parking spot.
11. Revocation of parking privilege: Students refusing to adhere to these rules will have their privilege to
park on campus revoked at the sole discretion of the Director of Falls Lake Academy High School. No
refund is provided for revocation of parking privileges due to violations of these rules.
12. Citations: All vehicles on campus are subject to state and local laws and may be cited by law
enforcement.
13. Registration with DMV: In order to park on campus, a vehicle must be registered with the NC
Department of Motor Vehicles, be inspected and the driver must be fully licensed to operate said
vehicle.
14. Searches: Any vehicle on the campus of Falls Lake Academy is subject to complete search and seizure
of any contraband item found within. These items may be turned over to law enforcement for legal
action and the driver will be subject to Falls Lake Academy discipline.
15. At All Times: Any vehicle operated by a student on campus at any time is subject to these rules and
regulations whether before, during or after school or at any time the student is on campus for a school
sponsored event.
VISITING OUR CAMPUS
All adults who volunteer in the classrooms, who drive other parents’ kids to and from student trips and/or
games, field trips, or who otherwise have any interaction with kids must first submit to a school approved
background check at their own expense. Background check form link is available on the school website. The
background check is valid for three years. The cost of the background check is the responsibility of the
parent/visitor. [Board Policy 5.0200 SCHOOL VISITORS]
VISITORS: FLA welcomes parents and other visitors and actively encourages parents and others with
personal or professional interest in the school and its educational programs to visit and become familiar with
FLA’s approaches to teaching and learning, subject to the provisions of this policy.
Visitors may only park in designated areas. No visitors may park in any numbered spaces.
Specifically, visitors are welcome:
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- at all events and programs open to the public, such as athletic contests and arts performances;
- at all special programs and events designed to showcase parts of the FLA educational program;
- at all meetings of PTA, the Firebird Flight Crew, and other parent and/or community support groups;
- at all open meetings of the Falls Lake Academy Board of Directors; and
- in the actual classrooms during the instructional day, as approved by the director.
PROCEDURES: While the Board welcomes visitors to the school, the paramount concern of the Board is to
provide a safe, orderly, and inviting learning environment in which disruptions to instruction and instructional
time are kept to a minimum. In addition to such reasonable rules and procedures as may be established and
enforced by the Director, the following requirements always apply to visitors in the school:
1. All school visitors during instructional hours must report immediately upon arrival to the school
Director’s office and check in to receive permission to be on school grounds and in the school and its
classrooms. Permission to visit classrooms during face-to-face instruction is generally limited to
parents of students in those classes who have particular and compelling reasons for such visits, to
guests of the teachers in those classrooms designated for those visits, and to professional educators and
students who seek to observe the classroom for the purpose of gathering information and deeper
understanding of the educational programs and/or methods being used therein.
2. After having been approved to be on school grounds during instructional hours, all school visitors must
check in and display whatever visitor’s identification is required by the school for instructional-hours
visitors throughout their stay during instructional hours.
3. School visitors shall comply with all school rules and Board policies, including 5.0250 ITEMS AND
MATERIALS PROHIBITED ON CAMPUS.
4. Individuals who are subject to policy 5.0220 REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS must comply with the
provisions of that policy.
5. Individuals who are discovered on-campus during instructional hours without having received
permission to visit and/or who are not displaying visitor’s identification will be instructed to report to
the school Director’s office immediately, ordered off the premises, and/or may be subject to possible
arrest for criminal trespass.
6. Classroom visitors are required to respect the educational environment at all times. Neither teachers nor
students may be interrupted during the course of the teaching and learning process by visitors for any
reason at any time unless invited to limited participation by the school Director or by the classroom
teacher in the classroom being visited. When visitors have questions or concerns, they are encouraged
to arrange for a conference with the classroom teacher to seek answers and/or further information. If
such a conference does not adequately address a visitor’s questions or concerns, they are encouraged to
submit those questions and concerns to the school Director or follow the procedures outlined in Board
policy 7.1500-7.1500 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES.
7. Visitors who – in the opinion of the school Director, or their designee in their absence, exhibit unusual,
disruptive, disorderly, threatening, or dangerous behavior, who damage school property, who violate
Board policy, and/or who disrupt the educational environment at any time while on school property will
be instructed to leave campus and will be prosecuted for trespassing if they do not do so immediately.
The Board authorizes the school Director to prohibit these and any other individuals who display or
exhibit similar disruptive behavior from entering upon school grounds, entering the school building, or
attending any other events sponsored by the school or in which the school is involved or participates.
39
Visitors who wish to volunteer or have regular contact with and/or interact with students directly are
required to have a criminal background check on file.
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
The Student Code of Conduct is applicable to all enrolled students at all times: before, during, and after school
hours while on school property; at any time while engaged in any school activities (whether on or off school
property); and whenever and wherever students are under and subject to the authority of school personnel.
Students who refuse to comply with the provisions of this policy, including refusal to follow the instructions of
school personnel while off-campus at approved school-sponsored or school-sanctioned events (including away
athletic events, field trips, academic contests, etc.), are in violation of the policy and subject to disciplinary
action.
Students and parents are reminded that, by law, student desks, lockers, and cubbies are the property of the
school and subject to search and seizure of contents at any time, without warning.
HONOR CODE:
Students understand that adherence to this code is essential for personal growth, ethical development, and the
establishment of a fair and respectful learning environment. Students in grade 6-12 will sign to affirm their
commitment to the principles and responsibilities outlined herein:
Integrity: I will strive to be honest, truthful, and transparent in all academic endeavors. I will not engage in
cheating, plagiarism, or any form of academic dishonesty that compromises the integrity of my work. This
includes the unauthorized use of Generative AI (such as ChatGPT or Grammarly composition aids).
Respect: I will treat all individuals—peers, teachers, and staff—with respect, dignity, and kindness. I will
foster an inclusive and supportive atmosphere, valuing diverse perspectives and embracing differences.
Responsibility: I will take responsibility for my own learning, actively participating in class discussions,
completing assignments diligently, and seeking assistance when needed. I will arrive prepared and punctual for
all classes.
Intellectual Growth: I will engage in intellectual pursuits with curiosity, open-mindedness, and a willingness to
explore new ideas. I will embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, both academically and personally.
Collaboration: I will collaborate with my peers in a constructive and ethical manner, respecting their
contributions and ideas. I will acknowledge and credit the work of others appropriately, avoiding any form of
unauthorized assistance.
Confidentiality: I will respect the privacy and confidentiality of others, refraining from sharing or misusing
personal information or academic materials without explicit permission.
Digital Citizenship: I will use technology responsibly, adhering to acceptable use policies and practicing good
digital citizenship. I will not engage in cyberbullying, harassment, or any form of online misconduct.
Environment: I will respect the school environment, maintaining cleanliness, and taking care of shared
resources and facilities. I will act responsibly and conscientiously, promoting sustainability and a positive
learning atmosphere.
Reporting Violations: I understand the importance of upholding the Honor Code, and I will report any
observed violations to the appropriate authority, without fear of retribution or judgment.
40
Students in grades 6-12 will sign to acknowledge they have read, understood, and agreed to abide by the
principles and responsibilities outlined in this Honor Code.This includes the understanding that any violation
of this code may result in appropriate consequences, including but not limited to academic penalties and
disciplinary action. See discipline policy below.
K-12 DRESS ATTIRE:
Student attire that is deemed unsafe or otherwise disruptive to the learning environment will result in a Class 1
infraction and students may be required to change. Clothing with slogans, symbols, printed text, and/or
illustrations on clothing which are inappropriate for school including: gang symbols, references to violent
and/or otherwise inappropriate clubs or organizations, alcohol, inappropriate language, references to illegal or
controlled substances, and sexual references which are deemed inappropriate for school by a school Director
are not permitted. No midriff should be visible at any time. No see through clothing is permitted. Clothing
should fully cover the student’s torso and buttocks. Sagging pants or pants worn with the waistband below the
waist and/or low on or underneath the buttocks are not permitted.
No blankets are permitted at school unless permitted by the Director.
HEADWARE:
Hats, caps, and other headwear may be worn outdoors for sun protection. They may be worn indoors as long as
the student's face is clearly visible. Hats should be removed during the Pledge of Allegiance. Hoodies may be
worn indoors as long as the student’s face is clearly visible at all times. Dark glasses, masks, or other items
that conceal the face are not permitted.
The determination of whether clothing/headwear /jewelry is appropriate or not is subject to the school
Director’s interpretation.
CLASSROOM RULES:
All FLA teachers develop and maintain their own classroom rules and expectations in addition to the
school-wide implications of The Code of Conduct. Students are required to comply with these as well.
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS:
Disciplinary action in response to infractions listed in the disciplinary code can range from student and/or
parent conferences all the way up to suspension, long term suspension and eventual expulsion. The Director
has the authority to impose consequences running the full range of Code provisions, including (but not limited
to) silent lunch detention (“SLD”), , mandatory school community service, loss of privileges (including
participation in and/or attendance at athletic and social events and parking and off campus lunch privileges),
Out-of-School Suspension (“OSS”), and recommendation for expulsion. Alternative consequences may be
assigned at the Director’s discretion. Law enforcement may be contacted if warranted (“SRO”).
OUT-of-SCHOOL SUSPENSION:
If you receive OSS, you may not participate in any field trip or after-school activities during your suspension.
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS:
The disciplinary options and/or consequences which may be imposed for behavior may include (but are not
limited to) the following:
A. Verbal warning
B. Written warning
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C. Parent conference or phone call
D. Silent lunch detention
E. Suspension from athletic participation
F. Suspension from social or extracurricular activities
G. Suspension from other privileges e.g., permission to park on school property
H. Suspension from school
I. Alternative consequences that may include on campus community service, reverse suspension, and/or
project
J. Long-term or permanent suspension
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CLASS 1 INFRACTIONS
Offense/Violation
First Offense
Second Offense
Third Offense
Minor Disruption/
Classroom
Disturbance/Disorderly
Conduct
Warning
Parent contact;
possible community
service;
1-3 days silent lunch
detention
Referral to Director;
Parent contact;
possible 1-10 days of
OSS
Noncompliance (failure
to obey the reasonable
request of staff)
Warning;
possible parent
contact;
possible silent lunch
Parent contact;
possible 1-3 days silent
lunch detention;
possible community
service;
possible 1-10 days OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; possible
1-10 days OSS
Falsification, giving false
information
Warning;
possible parent
contact; possible
silent lunch
Parent contact; 1-3 days
silent lunch detention
Referral to Director;
Parent contact;
possible 1-10 days OSS
Arriving at school before
the school day without
permission or without
legitimate before-school
purpose /Remaining on
campus after the school
day without permission
or without legitimate
after-school purpose
Warning;
parent contact
Referral to Director;
parent contact; possible
1-3 days silent lunch
Referral to Director;
parent contact; possible
1-10 days OSS
Conducting business /
solicitation on campus
Warning;
parent contact
Parent contact;
1-3 days silent lunch
detention
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-10 OSS
Use of profanity or
vulgar language, gestures
or depictions OR
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-3 days silent lunch
detention;
Referral to Director;
Parent contact; possible
1-10 day OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 day OSS
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depictions directed at
others
Defamation of
character/Verbal abuse
and harassment
Warning;
parent contact;
possible community
service
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service; possible 1-10 day
OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 day OSS
Cheating/ plagiarism/
allowing others to copy
work
Parent contact;
student required to
complete similar
assessment
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
student required to
complete similar
assessment;
possible community
service; 1-3 days silent
lunch
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
student required to
complete similar
assessment; 1-10 OSS
Failure to attend or
complete silent lunch
detention
Parent contact;
student will
complete silent
lunch plus additional
day
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
student will complete
detention plus 2
additional days
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
student will complete
silent lunch detention;
1-10 day OSS
Dress Code Violation
Warning;
parent contact;
change of item
Warning;
parent contact;
change of item;
possible 1-3 days silent
lunch detention
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
change of item; 1-10
days OSS
Misuse of technology: to
include, but not limited
to, disruption of the
educational environment
due to misuse of school
computers, or other
electronic equipment, or
personal cell phones,
Apple/smart watches,
airpods/earbuds or other
devices as defined in the
Acceptable Internet and
Technology Use &
Internet Safety
Agreement and/or the
FLA Athletic handbook
Warning;
parent contact;
possible suspension
of technology
privileges;
confiscation of
device until end of
school day; possible
1-10 days OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
confiscation of device-
parent pickup from office;
possible 1-10 days OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
Loss of access to FLA
technology and/or
personal cell phones
and/or other electronic
devices for up to the
rest of the academic year
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Violation of Honor Code
Warning; parent
contact; possible 1-5
days silent lunch;
possible 1-10 days
OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; possible
1-5 days silent lunch;
possible 1-10 days OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 1-10
days OSS
Field Trip Policy
Violation
Parent contact;
possible loss of field
trip privileges;
possible 1-10 days
OSS
Parent contact; possible
loss of field trip
privileges; 1-10 days OSS
Parent contact; possible
loss of field trip
privileges; 1-10 days
OSS
CLASS II INFRACTIONS
Offense/Violation
First Offense
Second Offense
Third Offense
Repeated Class I
Infractions (5 or more)
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
required behavior
contract
Excessive tardies (6 or
more)
See tardy policy in
handbook.
See tardy policy in
handbook.
See tardy policy in
handbook.
Entering prohibited areas
on campus
Warning;
parent contact;
possible 1-5 days
silent lunch
detention;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; possible
1-10 days of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 1-10
OSS
Misuse of pass/no pass
(skipping class on
campus)
Warning;
parent contact;
1-5 days silent lunch
detention
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-10 days of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; possible
1-10 OSS
Leaving campus during
the school day without
permission (skipping
class off campus)
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS; SRO
notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-10 days of
OSS; SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
SRO notification
Parking: Any parking
infraction, including:
failure to obtain a parking
permit, parking in an
unapproved/unassigned
Warning; parent
contact;
possible 1-5 days
silent lunch
detention;
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
5 days suspension of
parking (if applicable);
SRO notification;
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 days OSS;
45
location, failure to
display parking permit, or
other rules listed on
parking application
SRO notification;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
possible 1-10 days of OSS
possible permanent loss
of parking pass for the
year (if applicable);
SRO notification
Students being picked up
in an unapproved location
Warning; parent
contact; possible 1-5
days silent lunch
detention; SRO
notification; possible
1-10 days of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; SRO
notification; possible 1-10
days OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; SRO
notification 1-10 days
OSS
Speeding or reckless
driving on campus
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 5
days suspension of
parking (if
applicable); SRO
notification; possible
1-10 days of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact; possible 1
month suspension of
parking (if applicable);
SRO notification; possible
1-10 days of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
possible permanent loss
of parking pass for the
year (if applicable);
SRO notification
Gambling
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; possible
1-10 days of OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 1-10 OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
1-10 day OSS; SRO
notification
Communicating
threats/hazing without
physical contact
Referral to Director;
parent conference;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; possible
community service;
SRO notification;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent conference;
possible community
service; 1-10 OSS; SRO
notification
Referral to Director;
parent conference; 1-10
OSS; possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Use of counterfeit items
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service;
SRO notification;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service;
1-10 days OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 days OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Hate speech: acts of bias
and/or inappropriate
comments including and
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-3 days
silent lunch;
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 days OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 days OSS;
46
not limited to race,
religion and gender
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; possible
1-10 days of OSS
possible
recommendation for
expulsion
Inappropriate public
display of affection (e.g.,
hand holding and
hugging)
Verbal
warning/parent
contact
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-5 days silent lunch
detention
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-10 day OSS
Inappropriate public
display of affection (e.g.,
beyond hand holding and
hugging)
Referral to director;
parent contact;;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor
Referral to Director;
parent contact/SRO
notification;
possible 1-10 days of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 day OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Sexual conduct (indecent
exposure, streaking,
displays of nudity or
partial nudity, any type of
sexual acts, or display)
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 day OSS;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; SRO
notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Indecent exposure (non-
sexual)
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; possible
1-10 day OSS; SRO
notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 1-10 day
OSS; SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 day OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Sexual harassment
(sexual harassment refers
to unwelcome sexual
advances, requests for
sexual favors and other
verbal or physical
conduct of a sexual
nature or unwelcomed
physical contact of a
sexual nature which may
have the purpose of
creating an intimidating,
hostile, or offensive
learning environment.)
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; 1-10 day
OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 day OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 day OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Unwanted and/or
inappropriate personal
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
47
contact: engaging in any
conduct or using any item
which does, or could
reasonably be expected to
lead to major disturbance
and/or personal injury
through unwanted
physical contact
possible 1-10 OSS
1-10 day OSS
1-10 day OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Bullying: intimidation or
bullying; threatening,
stalking or seeking to
coerce or compel a
person to do something;
engaging in the
nonverbal, verbal,
written, cyber or physical
gestures and/or conduct
that threatens another
with harm, including
intimidation through the
use of epithets, natural
origin, religion, religious
practices, gender, sexual
orientation, age or
disability that
substantially disrupts the
educational process.
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; SRO
notification; possible
1-10 days of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS; SRO
notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Fighting (verbally
instigating an altercation,
or physically
participating in)
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 1-10
OSS; SRO
notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 1-10 OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact; 1-10
OSS; possible
recommendation for
expulsion; SRO
notification
Vandalism/willful
destruction of school
property
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service; financial
restitution to FLA;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service;
1- 10 OSS; financial
restitution to FLA;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
financial restitution to
FLA;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Destruction of personal
property
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service;
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service;
possible 1- 10 days OSS;
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
financial restitution to
victim;
1-10 days OSS;
48
financial restitution
to victim;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
financial restitution to
victim;
SRO notification
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Theft of personal
property
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible community
service; financial
restitution to victim;
SRO notification;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
required community
service; possible 1- 10
OSS; financial restitution
to victim;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
financial restitution to
victim;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Unauthorized possession
or use of medication
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-10 OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Possession of prohibited
items/combustible items
or materials/possession of
laser pointers; use of
personal imaging
equipment; use of
equipment to disrupt an
assembly, or in a manner
that disrupts the security
system of school or
impacts the well-being of
others
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; possible
community service;
possible 1-10 days
of OSS
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
possible 1-10 days of
OSS; SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
Smoking/vaping (use of
any tobacco products,
smokeless or otherwise
i..e Juul, vapes, e-cigs,
etc.) and/or possession of
smoking accessories
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
confiscation;
mandatory meeting
with school
counselor; 1-10
OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
confiscation; 1-10 OSS;
SRO notification
Referral to Director;
parent contact;
confiscation;
1-10 OSS;
possible
recommendation for
expulsion;
SRO notification
CLASS III INFRACTIONS
Offense/Violation
First Offense
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Repeated Class II Infractions (3 or more)
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion
Threat of violence towards school personnel
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Sexual Assault
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
False fire claim/or other emergency alarm
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Causing a fire/arson
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Trespass on school property (including
unauthorized presence on school property during
a suspension)
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Breaking and entering
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Incendiary devices
Referral to Director; parent contact; confiscation;
automatic recommendation to the BoD for long term
OSS and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Gang Activity
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Extortion
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
CLASS IV INFRACTIONS
Offense/Violation
First Offense
Use or possession of alcohol, controlled
substances or drug paraphernalia, or a substance
which the individual believes or represents to be
such
Referral to Director; parent contact; confiscation;
automatic recommendation to the BoD for long term
OSS and/or expulsion; SRO notification
*any gun, rifle, pistol, or other firearm of any kind, any dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine, or powerful
explosive, any BB gun, stun gun/taser, air rifle, air pistol, bowie knife, dirk, dagger, slungshot, leaded cane,
switchblade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, razors and razor blades (except solely for personal shaving),
firework, or any sharp-pointed or edged instrument except instructional supplies, unaltered nail files and clips
and tools used solely for preparation of food, instruction, and maintenance, on educational property.
BEHAVIOR CONTRACTS:
Students that continue to demonstrate a more extensive need for behavioral support in and out of the classroom
can utilize a behavior contract to outline those supports. Contracts are created with a team of people, including
the parents and the Director, and specifically addresses particular behaviors. Rewards and consequences are
identified and may reach beyond the Code of Student Conduct.
PARENT’S BILL OF RIGHTS
The School believes that parent and family involvement must be aggressively pursued and supported by our
communities, in homes, schools/colleges/universities, neighborhoods, businesses, faith congregations,
organizations, and government entities by working together in a mutually collaborative effort. As such, the
Board is committed to developing policies to involve parents in schools and their child’s education effectively.
N.C.G.S. § 115C-76.20(b)(3).
All parents/families and educators must prioritize family involvement in education; thus, the Board commits to
providing support and coordination for school staff and parents to implement and sustain appropriate parent
involvement.
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Weapons* possession (or any instrument or
replica thereof that is used or appears capable of
use to inflict serious bodily injury)
Referral to Director; parent contact; confiscation;
automatic recommendation to the BoD for long term
OSS and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Assault with serious injury
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Possession of or sharing of pornographic
material; sexting: the act of sending sexually
explicit or sexually provocative photos or videos
electronically
Referral to Director; parent contact; confiscation;
automatic recommendation to the BoD for long term
OSS and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Rape
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
False alarm, bomb scare, threat of harm, misuse
of technology to make a threat
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Robbery
Referral to Director; parent contact; automatic
recommendation to the BoD for long term OSS
and/or expulsion; SRO notification
Improved student achievement must be the equally shared responsibility and the goal of parents, teachers, the
school system, and the community. Thus, the Board commits to seeing that each school has effective volunteer
programs to address student needs and commits to utilizing schools to assist students and families in
connecting with community resources.
The Board commits that it will impact student achievement significantly by improving the quality and quantity
of parent/family involvement. Consequently, the Board will provide guidance, support, cooperation, and the
necessary funding to enable parents to become active partners in education.
A. Parent Rights
A parent has the right to the following:
(1) To direct the education and care of their child.
(2) To direct the child's upbringing and moral or religious training.
(3) To enroll their child in a public or nonpublic school and in any school choice options available
to the parent for which the child is otherwise eligible by law to comply with compulsory
attendance laws, as provided in Part 1 of Article 26 of Chapter 115C of the General Statutes.
(4) To access and review all education records, as authorized by the federal Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, relating to their child.
(5) To make healthcare decisions for their child, unless otherwise provided by law, including
Article 1A of Chapter 90 of the General Statutes.
(6) To access and review all medical records of their child, as authorized by the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), P.L. 104-191, as amended, except as
follows:
a. If an authorized investigator requests that information not be released to a parent
because the parent is the subject of an investigation of either of the following:
▪ A crime committed against the child under Chapter 14 of the General Statutes.
▪ An abuse and neglect complaint under Chapter 7B of the General Statutes.
b. When otherwise prohibited by law.
(2) To prohibit the creation, sharing, or storage of a biometric scan of their child without the
parent's prior written consent, except as authorized pursuant to a court order or otherwise
required by law, including G.S. 7B-2102 and G.S. 7B-2201.
(3) To prohibit the creation, sharing, or storage of their child's blood or deoxyribonucleic acid
(DNA) without the parent's prior written consent, except as authorized pursuant to a court order
or otherwise required by law, including G.S. 7B-2201.
(4) To prohibit the creation by the State of a video or voice recording of their child without the
parent's prior written consent, except a recording made in the following circumstances:
a. During or as part of a court proceeding.
b. As part of an investigation under Chapter 7B or Chapter 14 of the General Statutes.
c. When the recording will be used solely for any of the following purposes:
▪ A safety demonstration, including one related to security and discipline on
educational property.
▪ An academic or extracurricular activity.
▪ Classroom instruction.
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▪ Photo identification cards.
▪ Security or surveillance of buildings, grounds, or school
transportation.
(5) To be promptly notified if an employee of the State suspects that a criminal offense has been
committed against their child, unless the incident has first been reported to law enforcement or
the county child welfare agency, and notification of the parent would impede the investigation.
B. Limitations on the right to parent:
(1) The requirements of this Article do not authorize a parent to do any of the following:
a. Engage in unlawful conduct.
b. Abuse or neglect of the child, as defined in Chapter 7B of the General Statutes.
(2) The requirements of this Article do not prohibit the following:
a. A State official or employee from acting in their official capacity within the reasonable
and prudent scope of their authority.
b. A court of competent jurisdiction from acting in its official capacity within the
reasonable and prudent scope of its authority or issuing an order otherwise permitted by
law.
C. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 115C-76.25, the School shall display on its website the
following parental legal rights regarding their child’s education:
(1) The right to consent or withhold consent for participation in reproductive health and safety
education programs, consistent with the requirements of G.S. 115C-81.30. The School will
provide parents with a consent form prior to such programming.
(2) The right to seek a medical or religious exemption from immunization requirements, consistent
with the requirements of G.S.130A-156 and G.S. 130A-157. Please consult the Student
Handbook for this information.
(3) The right to review statewide standardized assessment results as part of the State report card.
The School will provide such information following such assessments.
(4) The right to request an evaluation of their child for an academically or intellectually gifted
program or for identification as a child with a disability, as provided in Article 9 of this Chapter.
Please consult the Student Handbook for this information.
(5) The right to inspect and purchase public school unit textbooks and other supplementary
instructional materials, as provided in Part 3 of Article 8 of this Chapter. Please refer to the
School's Policy on Curriculum, Textbooks, Supplementary Materials and Library Materials.
(6) The right to access information relating to the unit's policies for promotion or retention,
including high school graduation requirements. Please consult the Student Handbook for this
information.
(7) The right to receive student report cards on a regular basis that clearly depict and grade the
student's academic performance in each class or course, the student's conduct, and the student's
attendance. Please consult the Student Handbook for this information.
(8) The right to access information relating to the State public education system, State standards,
report card requirements, attendance requirements, and textbook requirements. Please consult
the Student Handbook for this information as well as the Department of Public Instruction.
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(9) The right to participate in parent-teacher organizations. This information will be provided
directly from the parent-teacher organization.
(10) The right to opt into certain data collection for their child, as provided in Part 5 of this Article
and Article 29 of this Chapter. Please consult the Student Handbook for this information
(11) The right for students to participate in protected student information surveys only with parental
consent, as provided in Part 5 of this Article. Please consult the Student Handbook for this
information.
(12) The right to review all available records of materials their child has borrowed from a school
library. Please refer to the School's Policy on Curriculum, Textbooks, Supplementary Materials,
and Library Materials.
D. Parent Guide for Student Achievement Pursuant to 115C-76.30.
The Parent Guide to Student Achievement is an effort by the State Board of Education (“SBE”). The
SBE’s Guide will be posted on the School’s website once it has been provided by the State Board of
Education and going forward at the beginning of each school year. The SBE’s Guide will be in writing,
understandable to students and parents, and discussed at the beginning of the school year during Open
House, Back to School events, or in any forum designated by the School. The SBE Guide shall meet
the requirements set forth in N.C.G.S. 115C-76.30.
E. The School’s Guide for Student Achievement Pursuant to 115C-76.30.
(1) The School has chosen to comply with these provisions by ensuring the following information
is in the Student Handbook available on this School’s website:
a. Requirements for students to be promoted to the next grade.
b. School entry requirements, including required immunizations and the recommended
immunization schedule.
c. Ways for parents to do the following:
▪ Strengthen their child's academic progress, especially in reading, as provided in
Part 1A of Article 8 of this Chapter.
▪ Strengthen their child's citizenship, especially social skills, and respect for others.
▪ Strengthen their child's realization of high expectations and setting lifelong
learning goals.
▪ Enhance communication between the school and the home.
(2) The School has chosen to comply with 115C-76.30, making the following information available
through its website; the Student Handbook found on the School’s website; School and
classroom communications (hard copy or via email); communications from the School’s PTO;
as well as through any other medium appropriate to communicate in an understandable way
with parents and students:
a. Services available for parents and their children, such as family literacy services;
mentoring, tutoring, and other academic reinforcement programs; college planning,
academic advisement, and student counseling services; and after-school programs.
b. Opportunities for parental participation, such as parenting classes, adult education,
school advisory councils, and school volunteer programs.
c. Opportunities for parents to learn about rigorous academic programs that may be
available for their child, such as honors programs, Career and College Promise and other
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dual enrollment opportunities, advanced placement, Advanced International Certificate
of Education (AICE) courses, International Baccalaureate, North Carolina Virtual High
School courses, and accelerated access to postsecondary education.
d. Educational choices available to parents, including each type of public-school unit
available to residents of the county in which the child lives and nonpublic school
options, educational choice options offered within the public school unit, and
scholarship grant programs under Part 2A of Article 39 and Article 41 of this Chapter.
e. Rights of students who have been identified as students with disabilities, as provided in
Article 9 of this Chapter.
f. Contact information for school and unit offices.
g. Resources for information on the importance of student health and other available
resources for parents, including the following information on available immunizations
and vaccinations:
▪ A recommended immunization schedule in accordance with the United States
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations.
▪ Information about meningococcal meningitis and influenza, as required by G.S.
115C-375.4.
F. Efforts to Increase Parent Involvement Pursuant to § 115C-76.35.
The School shall, in consultation with parents, teachers, administrators, and community partners,
develop and adopt policies to promote parental involvement and empowerment. The School will use
existing committees, communication mediums, and structures to engage in the consultation requirement
set forth in § 115C-76.35 and/or may create new avenues to comply with this provision. Opportunities
and information will be available on the School’s website and/or in community and/or school
communications. The School will ensure policies provide for parental choices as set forth in SB49,
establish parental responsibilities, and provide for parental involvement, which shall include the
following:
(1) Providing links to parents for community services.
(2) Establishing opportunities for parental involvement in developing, implementing, and
evaluating family involvement programs.
(3) Establish opportunities for parents to participate in school advisory councils, volunteer
programs, and other activities.
G. The School has established policies to do all the following:
(1) Provide for parental participation in their child's education to improve parent and teacher
cooperation in areas such as homework, school attendance, and discipline that aligns with the
parent guide for student achievement required by G.S. 115C-76.30. Please consult the School’s
website and Student Handbook on the School’s website.
(2) Effectively communicate to parents the way textbooks are used to implement the school's
curricular objectives. Please refer to the School’s Policy on Curriculum, Textbooks,
Supplementary Material, and Library Materials; the School’s website; and the Student
Handbook on the School’s website.
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(3) Establish a procedure for parents to learn about their child's course of study and the source of
any supplementary instructional materials. This procedure shall include the process for parents
to inspect and review all textbooks and supplementary instructional materials that will be used
in their child's classroom. The policy shall be available for in-person review by parents at the
school site and publicly available on the school's website. For this section, a textbook is defined
in G.S. 115C-85, and supplementary instructional materials include supplementary textbooks,
periodicals, audiovisual materials, and other supplementary materials used for instructional
purposes. Please refer to the School’s Policy on Curriculum, Textbooks, Supplementary
Materials, and Library Materials.
(4) Establish a means for parents to object to textbooks and supplementary instructional materials.
Please refer to the School's Policy on Curriculum, Textbooks, Supplementary Materials, and
Library Materials.
(5) Establish a process for parents to review materials for and to consent or withhold consent for
participation in reproductive health and safety education programs consistent with the
requirements of G.S. 115C-81.30. The School already provides such review, notice, and consent
requirements and will continue to follow our current procedures. Please consult the Student
Handbook available on the School’s website for further information.
(6) Establish a process for parents to learn about the nature and purpose of clubs and activities
offered at their child's school, including both curricular and extracurricular activities. Such
information will be provided through School and/or classroom communications. Please also
consult the Student Handbook available on the School’s website.
H. Further Compliance
(1) The qualifications of teachers, including licensure status, will be made available to parents at
the beginning of each school year and updated from time to time as needed. This information
will include teacher degrees, licensure status, and any other information necessary to comply
with §115C-76.30(1)(d).
(2) Our School is a school of choice. Parents have other educational choices available to them,
including traditional district schools, non-public schools (religious and secular), other charter
schools, and home schools. Information on scholarship programs is available at Opportunity
Scholarship - NCSEAA (https://www.ncseaa.edu/k12/opportunity/)
I. Student Health Notifications Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 115C-76.45
(1) The School does not prohibit school employees from notifying a parent about their child's
mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being or a change in related services or
monitoring.
(2) The School does not encourage or have the effect of encouraging a child to withhold from that
child's parent information about their mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being or a
change in related services or monitoring.
(3) School personnel shall not discourage or prohibit parental notification of and involvement in
critical decisions affecting a student's mental, emotional, or physical health or well-being except
where a reasonably prudent person would believe that notification would result in the child
becoming an abused juvenile or neglected juvenile, as those terms are defined in G.S. 7B-101 or
jeopardize the student’s safety.
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(4) Notifications:
a. At the beginning of each school year, our School Counselors will notify parents about
each healthcare service offered at the school and provide information on how parents
can consent to such service. School Counselors will notify parents of changes, prior to
or contemporaneous with changes, in service or monitoring related to their child’s
mental, emotional, or physical health or wellbeing and the school’s ability to provide a
safe and supportive learning environment for that child. (§115C-78.45)
b. Our School Counselors shall notify parents of kindergarten through grade three students
of any student well-being questionnaire or health screening form prior to administration
and shall provide information on how parents can consent to such questionnaire or
health screening.
c. Our School Counselors shall provide notice of a change prior to any changes in the
name of a pronoun used for a student in school records or by school personnel except
where a reasonably prudent person would believe that notification would result in the
child becoming an abused juvenile or neglected juvenile, as those terms are defined in
G.S. 7B-101 or jeopardize the student’s safety.
d. The School’s policy and procedure for parents to exercise the parental remedies
provided by G.S.§ 115.C-76.60 is set forth in this policy, Entitled Parental Remedies.
J. Timelines for parental requests for information under § 115C-76.40.
(1) This information parents have a right to access under this SB49 has been made accessible to
parents as set forth in this policy. Parents are encouraged to review this policy and the policies
referenced herein before making a request for information under § 115C-76.40.
(2) A parent of a child enrolled at our School may request in writing from the Director or designee
any of the information the parent has the right to access, as provided in this Part. The request
must be made no less than 48 hours in advance via email sent to the Director. Within 10
business days, the Executive Director or designee shall either (i) provide the requested
information to the parent or (ii) provide an extension notice to the parent that, due to the volume
or complexity of the request, the information will be provided no later than 20 business days
from the date of the parental request.
(3) If the Executive Director or designee: (i) denies or fails to respond to the request for
information within 10 business days or (ii) fails to provide information within 20 business days
following an extension notice as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the parent may
request in writing any of the information the parent has the right to access, as provided in this
Part, from the Executive Director, along with a statement specifying the time frame of the denial
or failure to provide information by the principal.
(4) If the Executive Director denies or does not respond to the request for information within 10
business days, the parent may appeal the denial or lack of response to the governing body of the
public school unit no later than 20 business days from the date of the request to the Executive
Director, as provided in subsection (2) of this section. The Board shall place the parents’ appeal
on the agenda for the next regularly scheduled board meeting occurring more than three
business days after submission of the appeal. During that meeting, the Board shall make a
decision regarding the appeal. The Board’s decision under this section is final and is not subject
to judicial review.
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K. Student support services training § 115C-76.50.
Student support services training developed or provided by the School to the school personnel shall
adhere to student services guidelines, standards, and frameworks established by the Department of Public
Instruction.
L. Parental rights to opt-in to protected information surveys § 115C-76.65
(1) Definitions:
a. Adult student – An enrolled student who is 18 or older or an emancipated minor.
b. Protected information survey – A survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information
concerning any of the following:
▪ Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student's parent.
▪ Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family.
▪ Sex behavior or attitudes.
▪ Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.
▪ Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family
relationships.
▪ Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers,
physicians, and ministers.
▪ Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student's parent.
▪ Income other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in
a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program.
(2) The School shall make the following available to parents and adult students at least 10 days
prior to administration of a protected information survey. The public school unit shall provide
opportunities for review of the following both electronically and in person:
a. The process for providing consent to participation in the protected information survey.
b. The full text of the protected information survey.
(3) No student shall be permitted to participate in a protected information survey without the parent
or the adult student's prior written or electronic consent.
(4) The requirements of this provision are in addition to the rights provided to parents and students
under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment, which are set forth in the Student Handbook
available on the School’s website.
M. Procedures and Remedies for Parent Concerns
This provision sets forth procedures and remedies required by § 115C-76.60. A parent has the right to
notify the principal about concerns under this policy pursuant to § 115C-76.60. The School’s procedures
and remedies for parental concerns are as follows:
(1) The parent shall submit in writing a detailed description of their concern to the School via email
to the grade level Director. Such description shall clearly state the SB49 procedure or practice
of concern. For a concern to be covered by this Section, it must be a concern about the School’s
procedure or practice under SB49.
(2) Within seven business days of receiving the concern, the grade level Director shall either:
a. Resolve the concern and notify the parent of the resolution, or
57
b. Develop a plan for resolution and notify the parent of the plan to resolve the concern
within 30 days of receiving written notification of the concern from the parent, or
c. Notify the parent of why the concern cannot be resolved.
(3) If the concern is not resolved within 30 days, a parent may do one of the following:
a. Notify the State Board of Education and request a Parental Concern hearing, or
b. Bring an action against the school as provided in Article 26 of Chapter 1 of the North
Carolina General Statutes for a declaratory judgment that the unit's procedure or practice
violates N.C.G.S. § 115C-76.45, § 115C-76.50, or § 115C-76.55.
(4) The court may award injunctive relief to a parent and shall award reasonable attorneys' fees and
costs to a parent awarded injunctive relief.
N. Reporting requirements under § 115C-76.70
(1) The School shall report annually by September 15 the following information to the State Board
of Education in a format designated by the State Board:
a. The most current version of the policies and procedures adopted as required by this
Article, with any modifications of the policy or procedure from the prior year's
submission clearly delineated.
b. The following information from the prior school year:
▪ The number of appeals to the governing body under G.S. 115C-76.40 and the
percentage of appeals decided in favor of the parent and in favor of the
administration in the prior school year.
▪ The number of statements provided to parents as required by G.S. 115C-76.60(a).
▪ The number of parental concern hearings involving the public school unit as
provided in G.S. 115C-76.60(b)(1).
▪ The number of actions brought against the public school unit as provided in G.S.
115C-76.60(b)(2) and the number of declaratory judgments entered against the
public school unit.
O. School's Policy on Curriculum, Textbooks, Supplementary Material, and Library
Materials.
(1) Compliance with SB49. In compliance with SB49, this policy serves to communicate
understandably and effectively the manner in which textbooks are used to implement the
school's curricular objectives. In addition, this policy establishes a procedure for parents to
learn about their child's course of study and the source of any supplementary instructional
materials. Our procedure includes the process for parents to inspect and review all textbooks
and supplementary instructional materials that will be used in their child's classroom. Finally,
this policy also establishes a means for parents to object to textbooks and supplementary
instructional materials consistent with the requirements of N.C.G.S. 115C-9
(2) Parent Participation. Parent participation in their child's education is important and
encouraged. We strongly encourage parents and teachers to cooperate regarding homework,
school attendance, and discipline. Information and ways parents can help their children and
encourage cooperation with their child’s teacher are included in our Student Handbook as well
as the following: contact through the student information system (ie: Jupiter Ed)
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(3) Charter School exemptions. A charter school is exempt from statutes and rules applicable to a
local board of education or local school administrative unit. As such, the School determines its
own curriculum and textbooks and is not bound by the laws governing local boards of education
and local school administrative units. The School has the sole authority to select and procure
curriculum, textbooks, supplementary instructional materials, and library materials. Further, the
School has the sole authority to determine if the materials are related to and within the
curriculum's limits and when the materials may be presented to students during the school day.
In general, supplementary books and other instructional materials shall neither displace nor be
used to the exclusion of basic textbooks where the School has selected textbooks.
(4) Textbook Definition. For the purposes of this section, a textbook is defined as a systematically
organized material comprehensive enough to cover the primary objectives outlined in the
standard course of study for a grade or course. Formats for textbooks may be print or nonprint,
including hardbound books, softbound books, activity-oriented programs, classroom kits, and
technology-based programs that require the use of electronic equipment to be used in the
learning process. Textbooks do not include supplementary instructional materials, including
supplementary textbooks, periodicals, audiovisual materials, and other supplementary materials
used for instructional purposes.
(5) Requirements of § 115C-76.55. Instruction on gender identity, sexual activity, or sexuality
shall not be included in the curriculum provided in grades kindergarten through fourth grade,
regardless of whether the information is provided by school personnel or third parties. For the
purposes of this section, the curriculum includes the standard course of study and support
materials, locally developed curriculum, supplemental instruction, textbooks, and other
supplementary materials but does not include responses to student-initiated questions. Further,
students may discuss gender identity, sexual activity, and sexuality with the school counselor
and/or social worker, or any adult they feel comfortable with. This provision shall be
implemented consistent with Title IX, and where a conflict arises between the two laws, federal
law will control. Nothing in this provision prevents school staff and teachers from appropriate
classroom displays not inconsistent with any school policy on such displays.
(6) Use and Purpose of Textbooks. The School selects and uses textbooks as part of its
curriculum and course of study. The textbooks selected are intended to advance the school’s
curricular objectives.
(7) Process For Selecting Curriculum, Textbooks, Supplementary Books And Instructional
Materials. The School’s process for selecting curriculum, textbooks, supplementary books, and
instructional material are selected by our staff to address the grade level standards as determined
by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Directors are consulted about additions
and/or modifications needed to curriculum being used throughout the year.
(8) Procedures for Learning about the Course of Study. Parents are provided their child’s
course of study, including textbooks and the source of any supplementary instructional materials
in a variety of ways: in our Student Handbook, at Open House, at Back to School night, and
through teacher communications.
(9) Parents may inspect and review all textbooks and supplementary instructional materials that
will be used in their child's classroom at Open House, Back to School Night, and by making an
appointment with their child’s teacher to be held between the hours of 4:00pm and 5:00pm.
(10) Process for Library Check Out and Notification
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Students are allowed to check out books from the library during their Library elective class
time.
P. Process for Parent Challenges to Textbooks and Supplementary Instructional Materials.
(1) The School reserves the right to create an advisory committee to investigate and evaluate
challenges from parents, teachers, and members of the public to textbooks and supplementary
instructional materials on the grounds that they are educationally unsuitable, pervasively vulgar,
or inappropriate to the age, maturity, or grade level of the students. To the extent the School
establishes such an advisory committee, information about that advisory committee will be
communicated to parents, teachers, and the community.
(2) In the event the School has not established such an advisory committee, parents may submit
challenges to textbooks and supplementary instructional materials for the following reasons
only: the textbook and/or supplementary materials are educationally unsuitable, pervasively
vulgar, or inappropriate to the age, maturity, or grade level of the students. There are no other
grounds for challenges to textbooks or supplementary materials under this provision.
(3) To submit a challenge to a particular textbook and/or supplementary material, the parent shall
submit in writing a detailed description of their challenge to the School. Such a challenge must
clearly identify the textbook and/or supplementary material they are challenging, and what
precise material they contend is educationally unsuitable, pervasively vulgar, or inappropriate to
the student's age, maturity, or grade level. The parent should also provide suggestions for
alternatives to such textbooks and/or supplementary materials that they are challenging.
Challenges must be sent to the School via email to the Executive Director or sent via mail or
hand delivered to the School’s address and designated on the outside of the letter: c/o Textbook
and/or Supplementary Material Challenge.
(4) The Administrative Team, consisting of the school principals, Director of Exceptional Children,
Director of Media and Data, and MTSS and Testing Coordinator, shall review such challenges
and respond to the challenge within ten (10) business days.
(5) If the decision does not resolve the matter, the parent may file a written appeal to the Executive
Director. The Executive Director shall review and respond to the challenge within five (5)
business days.
(6) If the Executive Director is not able to resolve the matter, the parent may file a written appeal
on the record with the School’s Board of Directors within five (5) business days. There are no
hearings on appeal, and decisions will be based solely on the written challenge provided by the
parent and information provided by the School. The appeal must comply with section (1) above.
The Board will designate a Board Panel to review the challenge and communicate its decision
to remove or retain the challenged material within twenty (20) business days. The Board Panel’s
decision is final.
(7) The Board always has sole authority and discretion to determine whether a challenge has merit
and whether challenged material should be retained or removed. There is no appeal from a
decision of the Board Panel.
(8) Timelines set forth herein may be extended for good cause.
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