Parent & Student Handbook 2021-2022 - Somerset ...
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Parent & Student
Handbook
2021-2022
11155 S.W. 112th Avenue
Building 5
Miami, Florida 33176
Phone: 305-274-5696 Fax: 305-274-5697
www.somersetacademyprep.com
*The policies and procedures contained herein may need to be updated throughout the school year as a result of the
ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Changes will be communicated to you, as necessary.TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE PAGE 3
OVERVIEW PAGE 4
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PAGE 5
ACCIDENTS/ILLNESSES PAGE 6
ATTENDANCE POLICY PAGE 7
AUTHORIZATION FOR MEDICATION PAGE 12
BULLYING POLICY PAGE 13
CLASSROOM PLACEMENT PAGE 13
COMMUNICATION PAGE 14
CONTACT INFORMATION PAGE 14
FIELD TRIPS PAGE 15
FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS PAGE 15
GRADING AND STUDENT PROGRESS PAGE 15
HOME LEARNING ASSIGNMENTS PAGE 16
INTERNET USE POLICY PAGE 17
ITEMS PERMITTED/NOT PERMITTED IN SCHOOL PAGE 18
LOST AND FOUND PAGE 19
PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION PAGE 19
SAFETY AND SECURITY PAGE 20
SCHOOL HOURS & DROP OFF/PICK UP PAGE 22
SCHOOL LUNCH PAGE 22
SPECIAL EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES PAGE 22
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT PAGE 22
STUDENT ENROLLMENT/LOTTERY PAGE 23
SUPPLIES PAGE 24
TEXTBOOKS PAGE 24
UNIFORM POLICY PAGE 25
VISITORS PAGE 26
VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENT PAGE 27
WITHDRAWLS PAGE 27
PARENT AND STUDENT AGREEMENT FORM PAGE 31PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE Dear Parents and Students, Welcome to an exciting year at Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset. Parents are an integral part of our school’s success and we gladly welcome your input and suggestions throughout the year. Your child is entering an environment that is warm, secure and challenging. In our school your child will grow academically, socially, physically and creatively. This will be a great year at our school. Our exceptional staff is committed to all of our students in providing a fantastic learning experience. Together with you we look forward to a great year where as a school “family” we will work together to afford a wonderful education for all of our students. Somerset Preparatory Academy is committed to excellence in education and in all aspects of a child’s life. This handbook is one way to bring the parents, teachers and students of Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset together. Only together can we accomplish a well- rounded education for all of our children. This handbook will provide the answers to most of your questions. Please do not hesitate to contact the school if you have any additional questions or concerns. I would like to thank you for entrusting your little angel to us. As a mother of three, I know what it is like to part from my children and still think about them every moment. I am honored with the responsibility of guiding them through their educational journey. I look forward to working with you to make this year a successful one. If we work together, we can accomplish great things! Your collaboration is essential in promoting our school’s mission as we continue to place an emphasis on individual student achievement by nurturing a positive learning environment which will enable our students to become confident, self-directed, responsible life-long learners. We are looking forward to a rewarding and exciting new year. On behalf of the administration, faculty and staff we assure you that we are committed to Somerset’s vision to provide an innovative challenging curriculum in a learning environment that promotes individualized instruction for all of our students. We are honored and thank you for selecting us as your School of Choice! Sincerely, Angela Nunez
OVERVIEW CHARTER SCHOOL INFORMATION Charter schools are non-profit, self-managed entities which enroll Miami-Dade County Public School students. They must be approved and monitored by the local school board, yet they are run independently. Charter schools are funded by state and local monies and are open to any student residing in the Miami-Dade County School District who would otherwise qualify to attend a regular K-8 school in Miami-Dade County. Charter school students are Miami-Dade County Public School students. VISION & PURPOSE The vision of Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset is to promote a multicultural environment that develops adaptive learning through the utilization of business, arts and technology to maximize the educational experience and foster the love of learning. The purpose of Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset is to educate, empower, and enable all students to become caring, contributing citizens who can succeed in an ever-changing world. SCHOOL CURRICULUM Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset follows the standards and objectives stated in the Florida Standards, Common Core State Standard and B.E.S.T. Standards. It encompasses the core subject areas of Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. In addition, we offer classes in Spanish, Art, Music and Physical Education. Just as each student learns differently, each teacher has his or her own unique style of teaching. Therefore, our curriculum encompasses elements of whole language and phonics instruction, as well as whole group, small group, and cooperative group activities. Our teachers and administrators continually work to develop the curriculum, as all of the members of the Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset team are integral facilitators of knowledge. ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Angela Nunez, Principal anunez@somersetacademyprep.com Annette Barroso, Lead Teacher abarroso@somersetacademyprep.com OFFICE STAFF Sharon Modeste, Office Secretary/Registrar smodeste@somersetacademyprep.com SCHOOL CALENDAR Our school calendar is available on our website: https://www.somersetacademyprep.com. In addition we will post on our social media platforms and website highlighting all events that will occur each month. Please note that the last Friday of every month is an early release day. Students will be released at 12:30 pm. Parents are responsible for making the appropriate arrangements. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Todd German, Board Chair & Treasurer Ana Diaz, Vice-Chair, Secretary & Parent David Concepcion Dr. Bernard Kimmel Brian Matthew (Matt) Cox Bernardo Montero, President Suzette Ruiz, Vice-President
BOARD MEETING DATES:
For a list of board meeting dates please visit our school website or contact the main office.
Procedures for adding items to the board meeting agenda and filing complaints:
Positive relations between the School and its parents and families are a primary concern. For that reason, every
effort will be made to handle disputes in the most positive way possible. The following steps have been
outlined in order to facilitate resolution of such issues:
Step 1 - Make an appointment to clarify the issue with your student¹s teacher (if applicable).
Step 2 - Make an appointment to clarify the issue with the school administrator.
Step 3- Contact Educational Support Provider (Academica)
Phone - 305-669-2906
Email - parentsupport@academica.org
Step 4 - Educational Support Provider will put you in contact with the Board Appointed Parent Liaison for your
school.
Step 5 - State concerns at a scheduled Governing Board meeting. If you want the Board to resolve or address
some dispute or issue that you have with the school, then you must describe the matter in writing (assistance
available upon request from Kelly Mallon / Board Liaison whose contact information is below) at least 3 days
prior to a regularly scheduled meeting. Your matter will be added to the Board’s agenda. Please understand
that: A public board meeting is the only forum in which Board Members should be addressed for disputes and
the only forum in which they will respond to you. Board Members cannot respond to any other direct means of
contact because an individual charter school board member, even the Chairman, does not have the authority
to make decisions on behalf of Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset, Inc.
Kelly Mallon
Board Liaison
Email: kmallon@academica.org
Mailing Address: 6340 Sunset Drive, Miami, Florida 33143
Fax: (305) 669-2906
Note: This policy does not replace or change any proceeding that is governed by the Code of Student
Conduct or the Parent Contract.
Step 6 - Contact the Charter School Compliance and Support at your local school district.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY
All Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset students are expected to be honest in the way they carry out,
present and submit their work. This means that all parts of works submitted for assignments and assessments,
whether internal or external, must either be original to the student or must be properly cited.
Academic Dishonesty: Academic dishonesty/malpractice may involve:
● Copying materials from a textbook, the internet, or another student and presenting it as one’s own
work.
● Collusion.
● Taking unauthorized materials into an examination room (e.g. electronic devices other than a permitted
calculator, notes, smartphones, etc.) regardless of whether this material is used or potentially contains
information pertinent to the examination.
● Misconduct during an examination, including any attempt to disrupt the examination or distract
another student.● Exchanging or in any way supporting, or attempting to support, the passing of information that is
related to an examination.
● Failing to comply with the instructions of the teacher/proctor or other members of the school’s staff
responsible for the conduct of the examination.
● Impersonating another student.
● Stealing/copying examination papers.
● Using an unauthorized calculator during an examination.
● Disclosing or discussing the content of an examination paper with a person outside of the immediate
school community within 24 hours of the end of the examination.
**The list above is by no means exhaustive.
Distinction between legitimate collaboration and unacceptable collusion or plagiarism
There are occasions when group work is entirely desirable and acceptable. This is a legitimate collaboration. In
such a case, each student involved should play a distinct part so that it is clearly seen how their contribution
differs from that of others in the group. Any written work presented must be individual. One student cannot do
the writing for another. **Unacceptable collusion occurs when one student copies from another with their
agreement, or when one student does the work for another.
Actions to be taken by the school if a student is found guilty of malpractice
The emphasis of Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset’s academic honesty policy is on prevention, and on
students learning the appropriate skills of correctly referencing work. We are aware that students come from a
variety of cultural backgrounds, and it may take them time to understand this policy. This is not to say that
plagiarism is tolerated. Repeated offences will mean that more severe action will be implemented.
Students found guilty of malpractice in general will be subject to consequences at the discretion of the school
administration which can include:
● Meeting with the teacher and school administration about the incident
● Parents notified
● Zero earned for the assignment
● Student placed on academic probation
ACCIDENTS/ILLNESSES
An ailing child has difficult time learning and also may present a health hazard to others. Students becoming ill
will be sent to the office. Symptoms requiring immediate attention and/or removal from school include: fever,
vomiting, bleeding, fractures and broken bones, severe bumps or bruises, red watery eyes (Pink Eye), red itchy
bumps all over the body (Chicken Pox/Measles), itchy head (Lice), dizziness or loss of consciousness
(concussion).
Parents will be notified immediately in case of illness or an accident. In the event that a parent cannot be
located, the person(s) named on the emergency contact card will be contacted. It is your responsibility to
make sure that these numbers are current and accurate. Please notify the office immediately of any accident
or injury which occurred during arrival or departure from school.
Children who are ill should remain at home to minimize the risk of passing the illness onto others. Please notify us
of any contagious illness your child has so we may alert other parents. In addition, please notify the school of
any chronic condition your child may have.COVID-19
The school shall continue to monitor guidance and implement procedures which are recommended by
The Florida Department of Health, The Center for Disease Control, The Florida Department of Education
and/or Miami-Dade County Public Schools. As of the date this handbook was published, such guidance
had not yet been released for the 2021-2022 school year. We will update our community as further
guidance is received and policies developed.
Health Screening Policy
Each student shall have proof of a tuberculosis clinical screening and appropriate follow-up prior to initial
enrollment in any grade in a Miami-Dade County Public School. This screening is to be administered at the time
of the Student Health Exam and within twelve (12) months prior to initial enrollment in any grade in a Miami-
Dade County Public School. If the screening indicates that a follow-up skin test is needed, a student can be
admitted but only with a health provider's statement that the student is free of communicable tuberculosis and
can attend school.
Immunizations Requirements for School Entry
1. A complete Florida Certification of Immunization – Blue Card Form DH 680 - according to grade level
2. State of Florida School Entry Health Exam – Yellow Form DH 3040 - no older than 12 months
3. Tuberculosis Clinical Screening, PPD or Chest X-ray
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Parents and students are responsible for attendance which shall be required of all students during the days and
hours that school is in session. Students are expected to:
● be present at school each and every day;
● attend class as scheduled;
● arrive at school and each class on time; and
● demonstrate appropriate behavior and a readiness to learn.
A. Attendance Defined
1. School Attendance - Students are to be counted in attendance only if they are actually present for at
least two (2) hours of the day or engaged in a school- approved educational activity which constitutes
a part of the instructional program for the student.
2. Class Attendance- Students are to be counted in attendance if they are physically present in class for at
least half of the class period, have been excused by the teacher on a class-related assignment, or have
been requested by a member of the school support staff for an approved school activity.
3. Tardiness – A student is considered tardy if he/she is not present at the moment the school bell rings for
the class assigned. Note: If a student is not present when attendance is taken but is present later in the
school day, that student must be considered in attendance, but tardy, and the absence should be
changed. A student who is tardy should never remain on record as being absent.
4. Early Sign-outs-No student shall be released within the final thirty(30)minutes of the school day unless
authorized by the school principal or principal’s designee, e.g., emergency, sickness.B. Reasonable Excuses for Time Missed at School
1. Personal illness of the student(medical evidence may be required by the principal for absences
exceeding five (5) consecutive days). The written statement must include all the days the student has
been absent from school. If a student is continually ill and repeatedly absent from school due to a
specific medical condition, he/she must be under the supervision of a health care provider in order to
receive excused absences from school.
2. Court appearance of the student, subpoena by law enforcement agency, or mandatory court
appearance.
3. Absence due to a medical appointment requires a written statement from a health care provider
indicating the date and time of the appointment and submitted to the principal.
4. An approved school activity (absences recorded, but not reported).
5. Other absences with prior approval of the principal.
6. Attendance at a center under the Department of Children and Families supervision.
7. Significant community events with prior permission of the principal. When more
than one (1) school is involved, the Region Superintendent will determine the status of the absence.c
8. Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members of a faith that such a
holiday or service be observed.
9. Military Connected Students – M-DCPS is committed to assist students from military families and will
continue to facilitate the development and implementation of policies that directly impact children of
military personnel. In an effort to ease the burden of our students who have parents that may be
deployed or on “Block Leave,” schools will allow up to a total of 5 days of excused absences each
academic year to allow families time together.
10. Death in the immediate family.
11. School sponsored event or educational enrichment activity that is not a school-sponsored event, as
determined and approved by the principal. The student must obtain advance written permission from
the principal. Examples of special events include: public functions, conferences, and regional, state,
and national competitions.
12. Other individual student absences beyond the control of the parent or student, as determined and
approved by the principal. The principal shall require documentation related to the situation.
D. Unexcused School Absence Due to:
1. vacations, personal services, local non-school event, program, or sporting activity;
2. older students providing day care services for siblings;
3. illness of others; and
4. non-compliance of immunization requirements unless lawfully exempted.
Absences not included in the excused absences listed above shall be considered unexcused. Any student who
has been absent from school will be marked unexcused absent until he/she submits the required
documentation. Failure to provide the required documentation within three (3) school days upon the return to
school will result in an unexcused absence. Unexcused absences do not require that the teacher provide
make- up work for the student.
A student accumulating ten (10) or more class unexcused absences in an annual course or five (5) or more
class unexcused absences in a designated semester course may have quarterly, semester, and final grade(s)
withheld pending an administrative screening and completion of assigned interventions by the Attendance
Review Committee.
Unexcused absences may result in detention or placement in existing alternative programs.Any student who fails to attend a regularly scheduled class and has a “no excuse” for the absence should be
referred to the appropriate administrator. Disciplinary action should include notification to parents. Chronic
truancy or deliberate nonattendance in excess of fifteen (15) days school days within a ninety day (90)
calendar period will be sufficient grounds for withdrawal of students sixteen (16) years of age or older, who are
subject to compulsory school attendance under Florida Statute § 1003.21.
The teacher will:
1. encourage school and class attendance with challenging and rigorous instruction and curriculum and
by demonstrating an interest in the welfare of students;
2. take attendance during homeroom and whenever students change instructors in elementary schools
and take attendance each period of the school day in secondary schools, and report absences as
required by the school;
3. at the request of the student or parent, provide make-up assignments for excused
absences/tardinesses.
The student will:
1. attend school/classes 180days each school year;
2. be reported as present for the school day in order to participate in athletic and
extracurricular activities;
3. request the make-up assignments for all excused absences/tardies from his/her
teachers upon his/her return to school or class within three (3) days. It should be noted that all classwork,
due to the nature of the instruction, is not readily subject to make-up work; and
4. complete the make-up assignments for classes missed within the equivalent number of days absent.
Failure to make up all assignments will result in the lower assessment of the student’s academic and/or
effort grade.
The parent will:
1. be responsible for his/her child’s school attendance as required by law and stress the importance of
regular and punctual school attendance with his/her child;
2. report and explain an absence or tardiness to the school;
3. ensure that his/her child has requested and completes make-up assignments for
all excused absences/tardies from the child’s teachers upon his/her return to
school or class; and
4. appearbeforetheAttendanceReviewCommitteeatthescheduledtimetoprovide
information relating to his/her child’s absences, and support the prescribed activities designated. *This
information can be found in School Board Policy 5200 - Attendance
Absences will be marked as unexcused until the student presents a valid excuse to the homeroom teacher
within 72 HOURS of his/her return to school or it will remain as an unexcused absence. The first 10 absent days
are excusable with a doctor's or parent’s note. Be aware that 15 or more unexcused absences in a 90 day
period will result in the student being considered truant, therefore a meeting with Administration will take place
in order to provide information relating to the child’s absences.
School Attendance: Students are to be counted in attendance only if they are actually present for at least two
hours of the day or engaged in a school-approved educational activity which constitutes a part of the
instructional program for the student.Class Attendance: Students are to be counted in attendance if they are physically present in class for at least
half of the class period, have been excused by the teacher on a class-related assignment, or have been
requested by a member of the school support staff for an approved school activity.
Students are not to receive credit for make-up work when absence is unexcused. Grade of “Z” will be issued.
Absences will ONLY be excused for the following reasons:
1. Student illness or hospitalization
2. Medical Appointment (must present doctor’s note showing date and time of appointment)
3. Death in the immediate family (must provide a copy of death certificate)
4. Observance of a religious holiday or service recognized by Miami Dade County Public Schools
5. Official summons to appear in court or immigration appointment (documentation of these must be
provided)
6. School sponsored events or activities previously approved by administrators
7. Other individual student absences beyond the control of the parent or student must be approved by
the principal or assistant principal. Transportation issues and parent/sibling illness will NOT be excused.
Absences Policy Procedure
At 5 absences (both excused and unexcused): Administrator will contact parent with a warning and document
with case management form.
At 7 absences (both excused and unexcused): Administration will schedule a meeting with parent(s).
At 10 absences: Administration will schedule meeting with parent for:
Unexcused:
● Conference with administrator and counselor
● Administrative referral and contract
Excused:
● Conference with administrator and counselor
● Case management form
At 15 absences: Administration will schedule meeting with parent
**Truancy packets will be filled out and sent to the district. In the event of truancy, appear before the
Attendance Review Committee at the scheduled time to provide information relating to their child’s absences.
*Excerpt from School Board Rule 6Gx13-5A-1.0
Make-up Work
All students are entitled to receive their assignments or “Make-Up” work for any absence. MAKE UP WORK IS
NOT TO BE WITHHELD FROM ANY STUDENT. Students ARE NOT entitled to receive a grade/credit for missed work
with an unexcused absence. Homework must be completed within 24 hours (X per missed days) after returning
to school. In addition, all assignments must be made-up or the student will be issued an incomplete or “Z”. Be
aware, incomplete assignments may affect the student’s final grade. It is the student/parent’s responsibility to
contact the teacher regarding any missed assignments. If a student anticipates being absent for more thantwo consecutive days, it is the student’s/parent’s responsibility to contact the school and pick-up any class
work/homework from the teacher. *A student will have ample opportunity to complete missed assignments
based on the amount of times the student was absent.
Illness Students accumulating ten (10) or more absences in an annual course or five (5) or more absences in a
semester course due to illness from school must be documented as under the supervision of a physician in order
for the absences to be excused. In addition, it is required that the school have a signed note from a physician
on file to receive an excused absence thereafter.
Consequences Students accumulating ten (10) or more absences in an annual course, or five (5) or more
absences in a semester course, will be subject to the withholding of passing final grade(s) pending a
student/parent requested administrative screening and/or review of all absences by the attendance review
committee. Students with fifteen (15) or more unexcused absences, in a 90 calendar day period, are subject to
having a complaint of truancy filed with the Department of Juvenile Justice and legal action will be taken to
insure regular attendance. In addition, any student who has ten (10) or more absences and/or twenty (20) or
more cumulative tardies in an annual course WILL NOT be allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities,
field trips, interscholastic competitions including sports and/or performances for the remainder of the school
year.
THIS WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED
TARDIES
All tardies are considered as UNEXCUSED. Students arriving tardy to school any time after 8:30 am must report
to the main office, where they will be scanned/checked in as “Tardy to School”. Students must be signed into
school and then issued a “Tardy to School Pass”. Only then will the student be authorized to proceed to class.
Students WILL NOT be admitted to any class tardy without a “TARDY to Class Pass”. Students with excessive
tardies are subject to consequences with parent contact and administrative discipline and/or will be referred
to the administration/Attendance Review Committee.
Consequences for Tardies & Early Pick-Ups per 9 Weeks for K-8 School
● 3rd Tardy Teacher call home
● 5th Tardy Admin call home
● 7th Tardy Written Referral to Administration for Parent Contact with Attendance Intervention Plan.
● 20th Tardy Students will no longer be eligible for activities
MIDDLE SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
In addition to the rules and regulations set forth in the sections prior, there are several other details that pertain
specifically to the secondary vector of our school. There is probably no factor more important to successful
school progress than regular school attendance. Students who are absent excessively from the instructional
program will fall behind in academic achievement. Excessive school absenteeism can result in course failure
The School Board establishes the attendance policy. The following are a few highlights specific to middle-
school: A secondary student accumulating ten (10) or more unexcused class absences in an annual course,
or three (3) or more excused absences in a semester course, will be subject to the withholding of final credit,
pending a student/parent requested administrative screening, and/or review of all absences by the
Attendance Review Committee. An Attendance Review Committee is established in each school. Thecommittee consists of three or more school personnel who have the responsibility to review student attendance
petitions during the last week of the courses(s) and recommend the:
- issuing of final grades
- temporary withholding of final grades pending make-up assignment; or
- permanent withholding of final grades and credit.
Students must complete the make-up assignments for classes within the allotted time given by the Attendance
Policy. Failure to make up all assignments will result in lower assessment of the student’s academic and/or effort
grade. Students/parents are to submit a completed “Petition to Appeal Withholding of Final Passing Grades” to
the individual responsible for the screening process:
1. Provide written documentation for all absences to the Attendance Review Committee.
2. Appear before the committee at the scheduled time with a parent/guardian.
EARLY DISMISSAL
1. Parents/guardians or any other adult (21 or older) who is listed on the Emergency Contact Card
must come to the Front /Attendance Office in order to request an early dismissal.
2. The adult picking up a student must present picture identification and this must be validated
using the information in the Emergency Contact Card in order for students to be released.
Students will not be dismissed to any person NOT listed on the emergency contact card.
3. NO student the age of 18 and under are allowed to sign themselves out without administrative
approval and parent contact.
4. NO student will be released for early dismissal 30 minutes prior to general school dismissal per
School Board Policy.
5. NO student can be released till 10:30 in order for attendance to count for that school day per
MDCPS policy.
AUTHORIZATION FOR MEDICATION
Miami-Dade County School Board policy “prohibits school personnel from administering any prescribed
medication without parental consent and a medication authorization form signed by the child’s physician and
parent(s).”
In order for medication to be administered to your child, we must have an AFM (Authorization for Medication
Form). This form is available in the office and must be kept on record. This form must be completed by a
pediatrician or a family doctor.
Medication must be in its original container labeled with the following information: The child’s name, dosage,
name of the drug, physician’s name and the name and phone number of the pharmacy that filled the
prescription.
Rigid guidelines are followed in administering medication. For example, office personnel designated to
dispense medication are required to count the number of pills the student brings to school and document it in
the student medication log.BULLYING POLICY
School harassment is a serious issue. It is the policy of Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset School to maintain
a learning and working environment that is free from religious, racial, sexual harassment or sexual orientation
harassment and supports a safe, supportive school climate for all of our students. Bullying can include behaviors
such as: physical violence and attacks, extortion and theft, taunts, name-calling and put-downs, peer group
exclusion, threats and intimidation, and cyber-bullying. Any student that believes he or she has been harassed
or bullied should report it immediately to a teacher, counselor or school administrator.
Ways that parents/guardians can help if your child is being bullied:
● Be supportive.
● Listen, get the facts, and assess your child's feelings.
● Let your child know that it's not his or her fault.
● Praise your child for discussing the bullying.
● Find out what your child feels he or she needs to feel safe.
● Communicate with your school.
● Let school officials contact the other child's parents.
● Talk regularly with your child and school to assess whether the bullying has stopped. Encourage and
support your child in making friends.
ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY 1006. 13, F.S: Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset enforces the Florida Department
of Education Zero Tolerance Policy on school violence, crime, and the use of weapons. As an approach to
reducing school violence, the intent of the policy is to provide a safe school climate that is drug-free and
protects student health, safety, and civil rights.
Additional Resources for Bullying Prevention:
The Florida Statues:
http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=1000-
1099/1006/Sections/1006.147.html
BULLYING PREVENTION: https://www.fldoe.org/safe-schools/bullying-prevention.stml
CLASSROOM PLACEMENT
Our administrative staff reviews each student’s scores and performance evaluations in order to provide
students with the best possible learning environment. We also consider a student’s individual personality,
development and character in our final decisions.
We are not in any way obligated to honor any special requests for classroom placements. In addition, students
will receive classroom assignments with consideration given to their academic needs and progress.
COMMUNICATIONPARENT TO SCHOOL COMMUNICATION A prime factor in our operation is the importance we place upon communication between home and school. The lines of communication must be kept open at all times so that we may be properly tuned into your child’s needs. Please notify us immediately if: 1. Your child has developed a communicable disease. 2. You will be out of town. 3. Your telephone number (home or work) has changed. 4. You wish to change or add to the emergency contact numbers we are to use. 5. IF THERE IS ANY CHANGE IN TRANSPORTATION. We will not allow a child to deviate from their regular departure routine without written or verbal verification. If there is a change in the person who is to pick up your child, we require the name of that person in writing. PARENT/TEACHER COMMUNICATION Please make appointments for conferences before or after school hours. Teachers may also be available during their planning time; however, you must make an appointment during this time. Conferences with individual teachers must be arranged by contacting the teacher. For parents/guardians students seeking to communicate with the teacher, the parent may use any of the following platforms: email, Dojo, Remind or any other platform utilized by the teacher. PLEASE DO NOT ENGAGE IN PARENT CONFERENCES DURING ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS, IN THE HALLWAYS OR DURING CLASSROOM TIME. Always attempt to resolve issues/conflicts with your child’s teacher first. If you are unable to resolve issues or conflicts with your child’s teacher you may contact the main office to schedule an appointment with the administration. CONTACT INFORMATION It is critical that the school office be notified of any change of address and/or telephone number immediately. FIELD TRIPS All trips planned by the school are for specific educational purposes. Participation in field trips requires the student to present a field trip form signed by the parent/guardian to his/her teacher in advance. Students going on a field trip must assume the responsibility for any necessary fee. Please keep in mind that once the field trip has been paid, the school will not issue a refund. If a hardship exists where a student cannot afford the cost of the field trip, please notify the teacher. Field trip chaperones will be selected by classroom teachers, preference will be given to parents who have not attended previous trips. Parent chaperones may not bring siblings on field trips as they are not covered by insurance. All parents attending field trips must be cleared through the Volunteer Safety Program and must wear the designated school spirit shirt. In addition, parent chaperones must provide their own transportation to and from field trip sites.
Students will not be released to anyone during a field trip for any reason. Authorized persons who wish to have
a student released early must report to the main office to sign out the child and wait for the child to return with
their class from the field trip.
FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS
All late charges, fees and/or monies owed to the school or any school sponsored program, must be paid by
the last day of the school year. Financial obligation notices will be sent as reminders throughout the school
year.
GRADING AND REPORTING STUDENT PROGRESS
Instructional staff uses evaluative devices and techniques as needed to report individual achievement in
relation to school goals, acceptance norms and student potential. Student grades, unsatisfactory work notices,
parent reports on state assessments and/or standardized testing, parent conferences, and adult/student
conferences should serve as the primary means of communicating student progress and achievement of the
standards for promotion.
A student’s academic grade reflects the teacher’s most objective assessment of the student’s academic
achievement. Students have the right to receive a conduct and an effort grade consistent with their overall
behavior and effort.
Specific guidelines for grading student performance and for reporting student progress are provided below
and detailed in the Student Progression Plan. To view the plan, go to
http://ehandbooks.dadeschools.net/policies/93/index.asp
Academic Grades: Academic grades are to reflect the student’s academic progress. The grade must provide
for both students and parents a clear indication of each student’s academic performance as compared with
norms that would be appropriate for the grade or subject. The academic grades of “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “F,”
are not related to the student’s effort and conduct grades. Grades in all subjects are to be based on the
student’s degree of mastery of the instructional objectives and competencies for the subject. The
determination of the specific grade a student receives must be based on the teacher’s best judgment after
careful consideration of all aspects of each student’s performance during a grading period.
Grading Scale
Kinder NUMERICAL VERBAL GRADE POINT
Grades 1-5 Middle School
VALUE INTERPRETATION VALUE
E A A 90-100% Outstanding progress 4
G B B 80-89% Above average progress 3
S C C 70-79% Average Progress 2
M D D 60-69% Lowest acceptable progress 1
U F F 0-59% Failure 0
Effort Grades: Effort grades are utilized to convey both to students and their parent(s)/guardian(s) the teacher’s
evaluation of a student’s effort as related to the instructional program. These grades are independent of
academic and conduct grades. In assigning an effort grade, the teacher must consider the student’s potential,
study habits and attitude; including the students’ homework daily homework completion. Kindergarten
students do not receive effort grades. Three numerical grades are used to reflect effort in Grades 1-5:● An effort grade of “1” indicates outstanding effort on the part of the student. The student will, when
necessary, complete a task again in order to improve the results. The student consistently attends to
assigned tasks until completed and generally exerts maximum effort on all tasks. The student consistently
works to the best of his/her ability.
● An effort grade of “2” indicates satisfactory effort on the part of the student. All work is approached with an
appropriate degree of seriousness. The student usually finishes assignments on time and usually stays on
task. The student usually works at a level commensurate with his/her ability.
● An effort grade of “3” reflects insufficient effort on the part of the student. Little attention is paid to
completing assignments well and/or on time or to completing them in a manner commensurate with the
student’s ability.
Conduct Grades: Conduct grades are to be used to communicate clearly to both students and their parents
the teacher's evaluation of a student's behavior and citizenship development. These grades are independent
of academic and effort grades. The conduct grade must be consistent with the student's overall behavior in
class and should not be based on a single criterion.
Progress Reports: Individual Progress Reports are issued every nine weeks and are a progress report of each
child on an individual basis. Please study your child’s progress with him/her. Please feel free to consult your
child’s teacher regarding his/her school progress. Report cards are issued the same days as identified in the
Miami-Dade County School Calendar.
HOME LEARNING ASSIGNMENTS
Home Learning Assignments are a very important part of learning since they reinforce concepts that have
been learned. It is Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset’s policy to assign homework EVERY night. This keeps
the academic flow and a means of involving parents aligned with our curriculum goals. All students are
required to use a school issued agenda and may it be purchased in the Main Office.
To improve the effects of Home Learning Assignments:
● Provide your child with a quiet place which is conducive to studying and to learning.
● Show an interest in your child’s home learning assignments by providing assistance and reviewing
completed work. Check your child’s agenda daily for home learning assignments and teacher
communication.
● Do not complete any part of the home learning assignments for your child. If your child is having difficulty
with their assignment please notify the teacher.
● Read with or to your children daily.
Student responsibilities for completing home learning activities:
1. Students are responsible for recording and completing all Home Learning Assignments independently.
Parents may provide assistance, but students must complete the work on their own.
2. Home Learning Assignments should be done in a quiet place with good lighting and minimal disturbances.
3. If there is a problem in understanding how to complete Home Learning Assignments, students are to do the
very best job possible. If a student does not understand the assignment(s), they are encouraged to bring it
in the next day and ask the teacher for assistance. In this case, the homework should be completed that
evening along with the regular Home Learning Assignments.
4. A daily calendar can be used to keep track of home learning assignments for each night.
5. If a student is having difficulty in managing their time for homework, ask the teacher for assistance with
homework time management.INTERNET USE POLICY Access and use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and its use must support the educational objectives of the school. Students must always get permission from their teachers prior to using the internet. Students who violate the following internet usage policy may lose any and all internet usage privileges. The school requires the following of its staff, students and parents: ● No recording, either photographic or audio/visual in nature may be made on school property without the express permission of the administration. ● No document or media that exists or is produced in reference to the school, its staff or students including photographs, letters, yearbooks and other material may be published where it is accessible to the public without the express permission of the administration. ● No staff member, student or parent may use the Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset name or any of its logos for identification purposes in any public forum or media. The term “public forum or media” also includes but is not limited to publicly accessible websites and web forums. ● Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset students are prohibited from using the school internet to access “chat rooms” at any time. Excerpt from: Code of Student Conduct ALERT: UTILIZATION OF THE INTERNET AND INAPPROPRIATE USE OF COMPUTERS Over the past few years, computers have become common household devices and popular in our schools and media centers. Students are encouraged to use computers, networks, and online telecommunication such as the Internet and electronic mail (e-mail). While exercising the right to use available technology, students must be aware of their responsibility as users. Advancement of technology has enabled many students with the access and opportunity to commit offenses that violate the Code of Student Conduct. Students are responsible for all aspects of MDCPS Board Policy 5500 – Student Code and Discipline, Board Policy 7540.03 – Student Network and Internet Acceptable Use and Safety, and the Code of Student Conduct, and Board Policy 5517.01 prevents cyber-bullying. These policies apply to the use and care of their personal device while on the Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset property or while involved in any school sponsored event/activity. The following are examples of improper uses of technology and are violations of the Code of Student Conduct: ● Using the network to send or receive obscene or lewd material; ● Using the network to make threats against anyone or the school; ● Sending electronic mail that threatens to do bodily harm to another student that might be considered assault or cyber-bullying; ● Downloading pirated software (is comparable to stealing); ● Willfully and knowingly obtaining an unauthorized access to or “hacking” into the school’s computer system (constitutes vandalism); ● Using, without authorization, school property or a school computer or other electronic device and damaging a school’s computer system or causing the computer to “crash” (constitutes a “computer- related” crime leading to criminal charges). These are only a few examples of violations committed through electronic means. The school administration will evaluate and determine the appropriate level of infraction under the Code of Student Conduct. Refer to the School Board Rule 6Gx13-6A-1.112 for further explanation.
The School may photograph and videotape school events which may include student images. These images
may be projected on the school website and/or other media for educational purposes only. If any parent
wishes to exclude use of their child’s image or likeness, please contact the administration.
Cell Phone Policy
Possession of a cellular telephone is not a violation of the Code of Student Conduct (CSC). However, the
possession of a cellular telephone which disrupts the educational process; the use of the cellular telephone
during school hours; and the possession or use of a cellular telephone which disrupts or interferes with the
safety-to-life issue for students being transported on a M-DCPS school bus, would be a violation of the CSC. Use
of electronic devices are not permitted during school hours. In addition, any visible items such as headphones
or electronic devices are subject to confiscation.
If a student has an electronic device confiscated by administration that item must be picked-up by a legal
guardian 24 hours after the confiscation. Upon the third confiscation of the electronic device, students are
subject to an administrative action.
ITEMS PERMITTED/NOT PERMITTED IN SCHOOL
Students are not permitted to bring toys, games or other items of value to school. Somerset Preparatory
Academy Sunset will not be responsible for any lost or stolen items brought to school or that have been taken
away by school personnel. Students who violate this policy may be issued a disciplinary referral. In addition,
electronic devices used in violation of the Code of Student Conduct will be confiscated and will remain in the
office until the end of the following day after which a parent or guardian must come to the office to retrieve it.
The school is not responsible for any inconvenience this may cause.
ALERT: WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICES
Wireless communication devices include two-way communication devices, including cellular phones, mobile
phones, portable computers, personal organizers and similar wireless devices. Possessing a wireless
communication device is not a violation of the Code of Student Conduct. However, a student should not
disrupt the educational process or interfere with the safety-to-life issues of students by using a wireless
communication device.
The following rules must be followed regarding the possession, use and display of wireless communication
devices:
● Students may possess, display and use wireless communication devices before or after the instructional day.
● Students shall avoid classroom disruptions, by not displaying, using, or activating wireless communication
devices during the instructional day. This includes during class, in the library, during lunch breaks, during
class changes and during any other structured activity.
● Students must ensure that devices are turned off during the instructional day.
● Students shall not use wireless communication devices while being transported on a school bus.
● Students must conceal wireless communication devices in a backpack, pocket, purse or other container
during the instructional day.
● The School is not responsible if a student’s wireless communication device is lost or stolen.
● The sole possession of a cellular telephone is not a violation of the Code of Student Conduct.
However, the possession of a cellular telephone that disrupts the educational process, the use of the cellular
telephone during school hours, use of a cellular phone to commit a crime, and the possession or use of a
cellular telephone that disrupts or interferes with the safety-to-life issue for students being transported on a
Miami-Dade County Public Schools bus are infractions of the Code of Student Conduct.LOST AND FOUND A lost and found area will be designated in the Main Office. To minimize the quantity of lost and found articles, we ask that you please write your child’s name on everything he/she brings to school. PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO): Parent Teacher Organization (PTO):is a formal organization that consists of parents, teachers and school staff. The organization’s goals may vary from schools, but essentially the goals include volunteerism of parents, fundraising for school needs, encouragement of teachers and students, community involvement and welfare of students and families. A PTO generally consists of a board. These members may include a president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. They may also include various specialty positions and committees. The board typically governs the PTO by creating and voting on meeting dates, general meeting programs, etc. A PTO is local and does not pay dues or other fees, unlike the PTA that is supported by a state and national association and does require funds to be sent to the program. The PTO is a non-profit 501(c) organization. Donations are tax deductible. Teachers and staff may become involved in the PTO by helping to plan events that encourage the education of the students. These may include workshops, tutoring, cultural events or special family nights.The students reap the benefits by the involvement and support of all the adults involved in the PTO. The PTO supports the educational goals of the school, thus extending those goals to the students. Educational Excellence School Advisory Committee (EESAC): The EESAC has the responsibility of monitoring, evaluating and revising the vision, mission and implementation plans of the school. Members obtain feedback from their constituents and express them at meetings and conferences. Within the EESAC are members of the Staff, School's Administration, Student Body, and Dade Partners, all of whom work collaboratively to support the school with resources that are available. Equipment, supplies, and materials are purchased to support the schools strategic and action plans with expenditures focused on identified key performance areas. EESAC Meetings are posted in the Main Office and are announced on the school website at https://www.somersetacademyprep.com. SAFETY AND SECURITY The Emergency Operations Plan Student and employee safety is a primary concern of the Miami-Dade County Public School (M-DCPS) System. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) was created to provide school personnel with the necessary leadership skills and knowledge needed to respond to critical incidents or other related emergencies that may occur in our schools /community. All schools have a site-specific plan to address all types of critical incidents. These plans address the individual needs of the school, and provide guidelines for devising methods for communicating with the staff, students, parents/guardians, and the media during a critical incident or an emergency. Some of the protective action procedures include the evacuation of students/staff from the building(s), evacuation of the disabled, and if necessary, the relocation of students/staff from the school campus, lockdown procedures, and holding/dismissing students during school and community emergencies. All school administrators and school personnel have been adequately trained in the school EOP and are prepared to respond immediately during a critical incident or emergency to provide safety for all children.
Code Yellow/Code Red In the event of an emergency, the primary responsibility of all school personnel is to ensure the safety of all students. In the event a school administrator announces a possible threat to students and staff safety exists within the community (Code Yellow), or an imminent threat to students and staff safety exists within the school (Code Red) students, faculty, and staff will comply with all the procedures outlined in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Critical Incident Response Plan and remain on lockdown until a school administrator makes an “All Clear” announcement. Fire Drills Ten fire drills will take place according to the Miami-Dade County Public School Policy and Emergency Procedures. At the sound of the emergency bell, students must stop what they are doing and follow the teacher’s instructions. They must clear the building promptly by the prescribed route. Any student who is in the hallway or the restroom at the sound of the emergency bell must proceed to the nearest exit and locate the teacher. Students, teachers and staff must remain outside the building until permission is given to re-enter. Fortify FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows students, parents, and teachers to instantly relay information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. By accessing FortifyFL,students can provide a description of the threat, share pictures and videos and optionally submit their contact information of the threat, share pictures and videos and optionally submit their contact information. FortiFortifyFL automatically routes your tip report to the appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. FortifyFL is available on the Dadeschools mobile app and can also be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It can also be accessed from the Dadeschools.net homepage, as well as the student, parent, and employee portal pages. Additionally, a button to FortifyFL is available on the Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset school website. Closing of School The emergency closing of a school for any cause, such as weather or in which the safety of individuals may be endangered, is at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools. SCHOOL HOURS & DROP OFF/ PICK UP PROCEDURES Before Care 7:10 am - 8:00 am Grades Kinder – 1 8:30 am – 2:00 pm Grades 2 - 6 8:30 am – 3:00 pm Story Hour 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset is NOT responsible for students who arrive more than thirty (30) minutes prior to the start of school, except for those who are enrolled in and pay fees to the Before Care program. Students may not be dropped off or left unattended outside the school building prior to the start of our school day. Students will remain supervised for 15 minutes after dismissal. Students who are not picked up 15 minutes after dismissal time will be sent to late pick-up and issued a fee of $1.00 per minute late.
ARRIVAL PROCEDURES
● All vehicles must enter the school from 112 AVE.
● Parents or Guardians must use the carport at the Discovery Museum to drop off students from 8:00 - 8:30
am.
● Under no circumstances will parents be allowed to park outside of Building 5 near 112 ST.
● Parents may not park and get down to drop off students.
DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
● All vehicles are to enter the school from 112 AVE.
● Students will be dismissed by their teacher from the classroom to the designated pick-up area in the
Discovery Museum.
● Students will be walked by staff to their car.
● Under no circumstances will parents be allowed to park and get down to pick up students.
We ask parents to refrain from holding parent conferences during dismissal as this does not allow the teacher to
provide adequate supervision to the students he/she is responsible for dismissing.
*STUDENTS WHO ARE NOT PICKED UP BY 3:15 pm WILL BE CHARGED $1.00 FOR EVERY MINUTE THE PARENT IS LATE.
The following acts are prohibited and may jeopardize student safety and the continuance of our Charter School
contract:
● Parent or Guardian may not exit the vehicle under the carport. Staff members will bring student to the
designated car.
Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset will implement the following consequences for
violation of these rules:
1. Documented Warning
2. Incident Report/Administrative Meeting
BEFORE CARE & STORY HOUR
Somerset Preparatory Academy Sunset has established Before Care and Story Hour Services to be available on
campus. Before Care is available for all students in grades K-6, and Story Hour is reserved for students in grades
K-1. It is the parents’/guardians’ responsibility to register the child and pay for such services at their option and
discretion. Please contact the school office for detailed information on how to register for the Before Care and
Story Hour Program at our school.
Student insurance is available to students during the first week of the school year. Any student enrolled in the
Before Care and After Care Program MUST purchase the student insurance.
HAZARDOUS WEATHER PROCEDURES
Arrival and dismissal procedures may be delayed due to hazardous weather conditions. Please be patient and
continue to follow drop-off/pick-up procedures to ensure your child’s safety. Tardies may be suspended due to
hazardous weather at the discretion of the administration. The use of the telephone will not be necessary.You can also read
