Welcome to Bienvenidos a - 2020-21SY - Academia Antonia Alonso
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Welcome to
Bienvenidos a
2020-21SY
Dear La Academia Families, I am pleased to welcome you back to the 2020-21SY! I would like to extend a special welcome to all of new families joining La Academia this year and welcome back all of our returning families as well! I am honored to be your Executive Director. Our goal at La Academia is to work together to provide our students with a rich learning environment. My vision, as the school’s Executive Director, is to ALWAYS put kids first! My belief is that all students can learn. As educators, we need to discover how each child learns in order to differentiate our instruction to support diverse learning styles. In a collaborative effort, we want children to thrive in all ways possible. My hope is that all children will LOVE school and nurture a learning environment that is positive, safe, warm, caring, as well as a fun place to learn and grow. Student success is attributed to the partnership and the relationships we build within our community and this is more important now than ever. It truly does take a village and at La Academia we value teamwork and collaboration! Education is a joint venture and we greatly appreciate the support you provide for your children at home and at school to help them meet their learning goals. Without the support of parent/guardian, contributions through our extraordinary Parent Booster Club (PBC) and Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), we would not have many of the programs that make La Academia so unique and successful. Although this year will look different than any other year, we are committed to providing your child(ren) a memorable, interactive, engaging distance learning experience for the first 6 weeks of school. In the La Academia spirit, we pride ourselves on NEVER GIVING UP no matter what the situation. I challenge you to be thinking about ways you can overcome any situation that arises during this unique time in educational history. Some ideas might include encouraging your child to write a letter to a special friend at school, calling someone just to say ‘hello’, waving at someone or decorating a mask with a smile. We at La Academia will be focusing on all of the positives that we can take from this experience and as the role models for our little jaguars’ lives, we will display a positive attitude towards distance learning each and every day. UNIDOS we can do this together. A few things you may be wondering before your child(ren)’s first day of school Tuesday, September 8th: 1-) When will I find out who is my child(ren)’s new teacher? *Please expect a special message from your child(ren)’s new teacher by Friday, August 28th. 2-) What will distance learning look like? *Please review our La Academia’s First 6 Weeks of School Plan for 2020-21SY. Keep in mind a more detailed weekly schedule is soon to come. Important Dates to REMEMBER: *Wednesday, August 26th through Monday, August 31st – Student Device and Supply’s Distribution. Specific information about pick up day/time is forthcoming.
Please remember:
WE monitor our student devices using web-filtering tools to ensure your student’s safety during
both remote learning and face-to-face learning!
WE install the correct learning tools required on each student device to avoid student frustrations
during remote learning and face-to-face learning!
WE have technology staff that can easily troubleshoot La Academia’s devices when issues or
problems occur. Our staff cannot provide support for home or personal devices.
EQUITY for ALL LEARNERS! We are proud to say that giving every student access to devices HAS NEVER
been a barrier for student learning!
* Friday, August 28th - Expect a special message from your child's new teacher.
*Tuesday, September 8th - First Student Day of School.
*Wednesday, September 2nd through Friday, September 4th – Virtual Meet the Teacher (more
information forthcoming)
Each family will receive an invite within 24 hours of their Virtual Meet the Teacher from their
teacher that will include the time and link to log on to the Zoom session.
If you do not receive the Virtual Meet the Teacher invite please contact La Academia’s Executive
Director, Mercedes Alonso.
Get Connected!
We’ve compiled a list of vendors who are currently providing free or discounted internet connectivity.
Comcast: https://www.internetessentials.com/apply
AtlanticBroadBand: https://atlanticbb.com/keeping-customers-safe-and-connected-covid-19
Verizon: https://www.verizon.com/support/residential/account/manage-account/lifeline-
discount#qualify
Verizon Wireless: https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/covid-19-faqs/
AT&T: https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/covid-19-faqs/
T-Mobile: https://www.t-mobile.com/support/account/covid-19-updates
We hope you will find that Academia Antonia Alonso Charter School is truly a place where learning is joyful
and children delight in coming to school. To all of my fellow Jaguars, let’s make it a great year! Please stay
safe and enjoy the last week of summer!
See you ‘virtually’ very soon!
Always with you,
Mercedes Alonso
Mercedes Alonso, M.Ed., MSOD
Executive Director
Mercedes.alonso@academia.k12.de.us
School building is closed to students & families- Distance/Remote Learning,
Activities and Events Only. Essential Faculty and Staff in the building, only. The
following plan refers to the first 6 weeks of school ONLY.
La Academia remains committed to providing an outstanding academic experience for all our
students. Beginning on September 8, 2020, student learning/ connection at La Academia will be
100 percent remote using Zoom Education. During the first 6 weeks, there will also be instruction
through La Academia’s Distance Learning Platform. The platform provides access to La
Academia’s digital curriculum (Wonders, Maravillas, Mis Matematicas and Studies Weekly –
Social Studies) as well as La Academia’s personalized blended programs (Imagine Learning
Language & Literacy, Imagine Español and Imagine Math).
Please be reminded that La Academia’s Board of Directors will reevaluate their decision for
remote learning at the scheduled board meeting on September 30, 2020. Their decision will be
communicated to La Academia’s community some time thereafter.
Significant steps have been taken this summer to evaluate the most-recent period of remote
learning during Spring 2020 to identify areas of improvement and establish best practices for
remote teaching during the 2020SY. We studied what worked well and what didn’t work
well. Given the Board’s decision and lessons learned, we commit to the following during the first
6 weeks of remote learning.
High quality instruction for students, aligned to DDOE’s standards, will be provided
remotely through La Academia’s Distance Learning Portal.
Parent support provided remotely through La Academia’s Distance Learning Portal
A combination of asynchronous ( online) and synchronous ( in –person through Zoom)
instruction
Regular communication regarding academic progress, updates to classes, and other
important information necessary for your student’s success
Student participation/attendance is required in all platforms. It is mandated by law and
existing attendance policies will be in effect for excused and unexcused absences!
Student daily schedule must be followed for synchronous instruction.
School events may be held remotely. Gatherings and field trips cancelled /postponed.
School cafeteria closed, however, food boxes will be made available for families at meal
sites. Please visit our website, www.academiacharterschool.org for more information
Campus closed except for essential employees and by permission of the Executiveu
Director/Director of Operations
Masks or face coverings required in or near school building.
Enhanced cleaning protocols employed remain in place in the school buildingFirst 6 Weeks of School for the 2020-2021SY Overview
Area of Focus Overview
Communication La Academia connects with parents through phone calls, Blackboard Connect (Robocalls) text messaging,
website, Zoom Education, portals and other platforms. Visit La Academia’s website,
www.academiacharterschool.org, for up-to-date information on the latest school news. Students will primarily
connect with teachers through Zoom Education. Be sure to connect to La Academia via REMIND and Class Dojo.
As a Compassionate School, La Academia staff are trauma sensitive. We are committed to creating a supportive,
Social Emotional joyful, nurturing, and healthy climate and culture so students can engage in learning. Regardless of the
environment through which they are learning, La Academia maintains a healthy culture in the digital classroom
through the Responsive Classroom approach. For example, every class will begin with a Morning Meeting to
create a sense of belonging, significance, and community.
Students will be considered in attendance in the remote learning scenario when they actively participate in ALL
Student platforms. The daily/ weekly participation of ALL students in each Distance Learning digital platform (Wonders,
Attendance Maravillas, Mis Matemáticas, Imagine Learning, Imagine Español, Imagine Math) as well as the live Zoom
instruction is mandatory per the Delaware Department of Education. The school will support families by
providing resources to ensure the students’ access to material each day. Students must complete and submit
work in the distance learning platform. Students must also fulfill on the recommended minutes in the Imagine
Learning platforms.
Students WILL be receiving grades during times of remote learning (grading and feedback system
Grading upgrade). Teachers will be able to identify if students mastered the task instructed and give feedback through
the curriculum platform. Student grades and report cards will follow the marking period schedule as indicated in
our school calendar. Students’ grades will be based on mastery of standards and concepts taught.
Students WILL be assessed during their remote learning experience on our platforms. These assessments are to
Assessment be completed without parent assistance to determine students’ needs and guide teachers’ instruction. Students
will take placement tests on our platforms. In the first 6 weeks of school, a variety of assessments are used to
determine your student’s current instructional level.
Supporting Academia’s teaching staff will provide support to students with Zoom Education sessions, office hours and
Students feedback through the Wonders, Maravillas, Mis Matematicas and Class Dojo platforms. Students will be
Academically provided with the Imagine Learning Trackers to help parents and students determine if they have met the goal of
the day and have completed their tasks on that particular day.
Teacher
Engagement Teachers will provide an optimal instructional environment using Kagan techniques for virtual learning. Teachers
were trained this summer on how to modify Kagan structures to create a sense of significance, belonging, and
collaboration through Zoom Education. Teachers will have at least one data driven PLC with applicable staff
members such as, the Academic Dean.
Professional Professional Development will continue to be part of our professional learning and collaboration. Professional
Development Development will be ongoing for teachers. On these days, as indicated on the school calendar, students will be
expected to work asynchronously.La Academia’s First 6 Weeks of School for 2020-2021SY
Note: We are finalizing the details on your child’s daily schedule. Your child’s specific schedule will be shared with
you by your child’s homeroom teacher but we want to make sure you are aware of a general schedule and set of
expectations so that you can make arrangements to have your child engaged in learning during this time frame.
Please understand the following schedule does not mean your child will be logged into Zoom all day. There will
be a mix of live teaching, independent work, small group time with the teacher, movement breaks and related
arts activities.
TIME Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8:00AM-8:45AM Planning and Preparation
8:50AM-9:35AM Individual / Small Group Zoom Instruction
9:40AM-10:25AM Individual / Small Group Zoom Instruction
10:30AM-11:15AM Individual / Small Group Zoom Instruction
11:20AM-12:05AM Individual / Small Group Zoom Instruction
12:10PM-12:40PM Lunch
12:45PM- 3:10PM Testing / Small Group / Individual Instruction / Expressive Arts
3:15 – 4:00PM Teacher and Administration Office Hours
Description of Student Schedule
Planning and At this time, both teachers and students are planning and preparing for their day. Please see teacher and student
Preparation expectations below for what planning and preparation may include.
Small Group Zoom Monday through Thursday, your student will be assigned 3 blocks of time for ELA/SLA and Math Instruction. On
Instruction Fridays, they will have 2 assigned blocks of time for Science and Social Studies instruction. You will receive more
information with your child’s specific schedule from your student’s teachers.
Special Education and/or related services could be delivered during these times. These services include: Social
Emotional Groups, Speech Language services and Occupational Therapy services.
Lunch Be sure to give your brain a break! This is your time to refuel your brain.
Individual If your student receives Special Education services, IEP services will be delivered at this time. More information
Instruction will be forthcoming from your child’s Special Education Teacher. Individual instruction can also include RTI or
specialized instruction with your child’s teachers as specified by their needs.
Special Education and/or related services could also be delivered during these times. These services
include: Social Emotional Groups, Speech Language services and Occupational Therapy services.
Testing At the beginning of every school year, La Academia tests students to assess their present level of performance. A
variety of assessments are used to determine your student’s current instructional level.
Office Hours Teachers will hold Office Hours Monday through Friday via Zoom Education. Both parents/guardians and/or
students may attend. Attendance is NOT mandatory. Teachers will be available to parents/guardians and/or
students for support and to clarify questions.
Expressive Arts Physical Education, STEM, Art, Music, Capoeira will be available via asynchronous instruction. More information
will be forthcoming will availability of synchronous online instruction.First 6 Weeks of School for the 2020-2021SY Expectations
Expectations for Students Expectations for Parents/Guardians Expectations for Teachers
-Be kind. Remember that nuance, emotion, -Support your child with their schedule. - All teachers will have a 7.5 hour work day.
and intention are all harder to gauge Students may need support with telling -Professional Responsibilities: Teachers are
online. time. expected to…
1. Communicate in regards to student
-Adhere to ALL regular school rules found attendance, learning, and school activities
- Maintain the confidentiality of other on a weekly basis
in our 2020-2021SY Code of Conduct
students. Please do not record teacher’s 2. Provide a weekly newsletter for
lessons. parents/guardians
-Take care of your Chromebook/iPad.
3. Provide daily/weekly student feedback
-Charge it regularly. 4. Check email at least 2 times per day
- No food or drink near or on it. -Check online platforms daily. 5. Respond to parent/guardian
-Store it in a safe location in your Assignments should demonstrate student communications (email, Dojo, etc.) within
home. learning. Remember, student assignments 24 hours, with the exception of weekends
-La Academia’s Acceptable Use Policy should be completed by your child. 6. Attend IEP, SST, and 504 meetings as
Guidelines continue apply to all technology needed
use and online communication. 7. Maintain regular data entry in teacher
- During live Zoom sessions, please refrain
grade books
from interacting with the student and/ or
-Participate in ALL of La 8. Participate in Professional Development
the teacher. 9. Collaborate with the stakeholders across
Academia’s digital learning platforms as
the community i.e. paraprofessionals,
directed by your student schedule. Reading Specialist, Math Specialist, DFS,
-Maintain open communication with your
student’s teacher. etc.
-Attend Zoom sessions 10. Plan and upload instructional activities to
La Academia’s Distance Learning platform
-Sign on at least 5 minutes before your -Participate in scheduled student before the beginning of each week (8:00
Zoom session conferences. a.m. Monday)
11. Contribute to a positive online
-Complete and submit your assignments -Help your student identify a learning environment by maintaining a safe digital
for grading purposes each week space with your student’s material classroom
(notebook, pencil, and charged 12. Adhere to all deadlines
-Each day complete required minutes Chromebook/iPad) readily available. -Instructional Delivery: Teachers are expected to….
1. Utilize Kagan strategies for virtual student
of the Imagine Learning Platforms engagement
-Kinder-20 minutes -Support your child with time
2. Utilize the core practices of Responsive
-1st through 5th- 30 minutes management, frequent breaks, physical
Classroom i.e. Morning Meeting,
activity, and praise for task completion
-Tell your teacher when you need help Interactive Modeling, etc. to teach
and submission of assignments. academic expectations and guide student
- Sit in an appropriate place when working behavior
-Please support your child in maintaining 3. Provide face to face instruction for at least
remotely. Where your student is sitting and
a regular sleep schedule. 1.5 hours
what others see, an unmade bed is
probably not a good look, matters. 4. Log into Zoom at least 5 minutes before
-Be sure to take care of your own physical each session
and social emotional well -being. 5. Provide accommodations based on
-Do NOT eat during meeting times.
student’s IEP , ELL, and possible SST needs
6. Embed Imagine Learning into lesson
- Contribute to a positive online remote
expectations
learning community.
7. Integrate SEL into the teaching day
8. Provide small group daily and individual
instruction as needed
9. Support the implementation of RTI by
participating in the RTI process for Tier 1,
2, and 3 instruction and Cycle ReviewsAcademia Antonia Alonso Charter School
2020-2021 School Calendar
School and Offices Closed First/Last Day of School for Kindergarten Parent/Teacher Conferences
(Half Day)
Staff Professional Development Day First and Last Day of School (1ST -5TH) Orientation Day Kindergarten
and New Students
Instructional Days/Hours End Dates for Trimesters Report Card Distribution Dates
st
Total Teacher Days - 192 1 Trimester – 11.18.2020 11.20.2020
Total Student Days – 165 2nd Trimester – 03.08.2021 03.10.2021
Total Instructional Hours – 1,072.5 3rd Trimester – 06.09.2021 06.11.2021
*Number of instructional hours in a full day: 6.5
hours
**Number instructional hours in a half day: 3.75
hours
*** Surplus Days – 1.923 / Surplus Hours – 12.5
JULY 2020
S M T W TH F S 3rd - School and Offices Closed – Independence Day
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31
AUGUST 2020
S M T W TH F S 17-19 – New Staff and Faculty Professional Development Days
1 20 - All Staff and Faculty Professional Development Day
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 21-24 – Classroom Set Up
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 25-28 – All Staff and Faculty Professional Development Days
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 31 – Virtual Student-Teacher Meet & Greet for all Grades
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
SEPTEMBER 2020
S M T W TH F S 1-4 – Virtual Student-Teacher Meet & Greet for all Grades / Professional
1 2 3 4 5 Developments Day
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 7 – School and Offices Closed – Labor Day
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 8 - Kinderduction (Half Day of School for Kindergarten Students)
9 - First Day of School
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
15 – School closed (Offices Open) – Professional Development Day
27 28 29 30
OCTOBER 2020
S M T W TH F S 9 – School Closed (Offices Open) – Professional Development Day
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
NOVEMBER 2020
S M T W TH F S 3 – School and Offices Closed – Election Day
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 11 – School and Offices Closed – Veterans Day
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 23-24 – School Closed (Offices Open) - Parent Teacher Conference
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 25-27 – School and Offices Closed – Thanksgiving
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30DECEMBER 2020
S M T W TH F S 21-31 – School and Offices Closed – Winter Break
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31
JANUARY 2021
S M T W TH F S 1 – School and Offices Closed – Winter Break
1 2 18 – School and Offices Closed – Martin Luther King Day
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 19 - School Closed (Offices Open) – Professional Development Day
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31
FEBRUARY 2021
S M T W TH F S 12 - School Closed (Offices Open) – Professional Development Day
1 2 3 4 5 6 15 – School and Offices Closed – Presidents Day
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28
MARCH 2021
S M T W TH F S 18 - School Closed (Offices Open) – Professional Development Day
1 2 3 4 5 6 19 – School Closed (Offices Open) – Parent Teacher Conference
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31
APRIL 2021
S M T W TH F S 2 – School and Offices Closed – Good Friday
1 2 3 5-9 – School and Offices Closed – Spring Break
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 - School Closed (Offices Open) – Professional Development Day
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30
MAY 2021
S M T W TH F S 3 – School Closed (Offices Open) – Professional Development Day
1 31 – School and Offices Closed – Memorial Day
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
JUNE 2021
S M T W TH F S 11 – LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
1 2 3 4 5 14-15 – All Staff and Faculty Professional Development Days
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
**Approved by La Academia Board of Directors on July 22 nd,2020 Board Meeting.Academia Antonia Alonso
Kindergarten
Remote Learning Supply List
Supply List:
__1 blunt-tipped scissor __1 pack of 24 Crayons
__1 pack of 24 No. 2 pencils __1 individual white board
__1 pack of erasers __1 packet of dry eraser markers
__1 pack of 4 glue sticks __1 set of headphones
(optional)
__1 pack of colored pencils
.
__1 pack of colored markers
Lista de materiales:
__1 tijera de punta redonda __1 paquete de 24 Crayones
__1 paquete de 24 lápices #2 __1 pizarra blanca individual
__1 paquete de borradores __1 paquete de marcadores
para piazarra blanca
__1 paquete de pega __1 audífono (opcional)
__1 paquete de lápices de
colores
__1 paquete de marcadores de
coloresAcademia Antonia Alonso
1st Grade / Primer Grado
Remote Learning Supply List
Supply List:
__1 pack of 24 No. 2 pencils __1 pack of construction paper
__1 pack of 4 erasers __1 individual white board
__1 blunt-tipped scissor __1 packet of dry eraser markers
__1 pack of 4 glue sticks __1 set of headphones
(optional)
__1 pack of 24 crayons
__1 pack of colored markers
__1 pack of colored pencils
.
__3 notebooks
Lista de materiales:
__1 paquete de 24 lápices #2 __1 paquete de papel de
construcción
__1 paquete de borradores __3 libretas de composición
__1 tijeras de punta redonda __1 pizarra blanca individual
__1 paquete de pega __1 paquete de marcadores
para piazarra blanca
__1 paquete de 24 Crayones __1 audífono (opcional)
__1 paquete de marcadores de
colores
__1 paquete de lápices de
coloresAcademia Antonia Alonso
2nd Grade / 2do Grado
Remote Learning Supply List
Supply List:
__1 pack of 24 No. 2 pencils __1 ruler
__1 pack of 4 erasers __1 pack of constructions paper
__1 blunt-tipped scissor __1 set of headphones
(optional)
__1 pack of 4 glue sticks __1 individual white board
__1 pack of 24 crayons __1 packet of dry eraser markers
__1 pack of highlighters
__1 pack of colored pencils
__1 pack of colored markers .
__3 composition notebooks
Lista de materiales:
__1 paquete de 24 lápices #2 __1 tijera de punta redonda
__3 libretas de composición __1 audífono (opcional)
__1 paquete de borradores __1 paquete de papel de construcción
__1 paquete de lápices de colores __1 pizarra blanca pequeña
__1 paquete de pega __1 paquete de marcadores para
piazarra blanca
__1 paquete de 24 Crayones __1 paquete de marcadores de colores
__1 paquete de “highlighters”
__1 reglaAcademia Antonia Alonso
3rd Grade / 3ro Grado
Remote Learning Supply List
Supply List:
__1 pack of 24 No. 2 pencils __1 blunt-tipped scissor
__1 pack of 24 crayons __1 set of headphones (optional)
__1 pack of erasers __1 individual white board
__1 pack of colored markers __1 packet of dry eraser markers
__1 ruler
__1 pack of colored pencils
__1 pack of 4 glue sticks
__1 pack of highlighters .
__3 composition notebooks
Lista de materiales:
__1 paquete de 24 lápices #2 __1 tijera de punta redonda
__3 libretas de composición __1 audífonos (opcional)
__1 paquete de borradores __1 pizarra blanca individual
__1 regla __1 paquete de marcadores para
piazarra blanca
__1 paquetes de lápices de colores __1 paquete de marcadores de
colores
__1 paquete de pega
__1 paquete de 24 Crayones
__1 paquete de “highlighters”Academia Antonia Alonso
4th Grade /4to Grado
Remote Learning Supply List
Supply List:
__1 set of headphones (optional) __1 pack highlighters
__1 pack of 24 No. 2 pencils __1 individual white board
__1 blunt-tipped scissor __1 packet of dry eraser markers
__1 pack of erasers
__1 pack of colored markers
__1 pack of 4 glue sticks
__1 pack of colored pencils
__3 composition notebooks
__1 ruler .
Lista de materiales:
__1 audífonos (opcional) __1 pizarra blanca individual
__1 paquete de 24 lápices #2 __1 paquete de marcadores para
piazarra blanca
__1 tijera de punta redonda __1 regla
__1 paquete de borradores __1 paquetes de pega
__1 paquete de marcadores
de colores
__1 paquete de lápices de
colores
__3 cuadernos/libretas
__1 paquete de “highlighters”Academia Antonia Alonso
5th Grade / 5to Grado
Remote Learning Supply List
Supply List:
__1 pack of 24 No. 2 pencils
__1 blunt-tipped scissor __1 set of headphones (optional)
__1 pack of erasers __1 pack of 4 glue sticks
__1 ruler __1 individual white board
__1 pack of colored pencils __1 packet of dry eraser markers
__1 pack of colored markers
__4 composition notebooks
__1 pack of highlighters
.
Lista de materiales:
__1 paquete de 24 lápices #2 __1 audífonos (opcional)
__1 tijera de punta redonda __1 regla
__1 paquete de borradores __1 paquetes de pega
__1 paquete de marcadores de __1 pizarra blanca individual
colores
__1 paquete de lápices de colores __1 paquete de marcadores para
piazarra blanca
__4 cuadernos/libretas
__2 marcadores “highlighters”Academia Antonia Alonso
Charter School
2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR
PARENT—STUDENT
HANDBOOK
Academia Antonia Alonso Charter School
4403 Lancaster Avenue, Building #26
Wilmington, De 19805
302.351.8200 Main Office | Website: www.academiacharterschool.org | 302.233.7336 FAX
*Academia Antonia Alonso Charter School does not discriminate on the basis of age ancestry/national origin, race disability, gender
identity/expression, marital status, religion, sex or sexual orientation in matters affecting employment or in providing access to programs and
activities.Academia Antonia Alonso
Board of Directors
2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR
Dr. Maria Alonso, Board President Maria.Alonso@academia.k12.de.us
Scott Sheridan, Vice President Scott.Sheridan@academia.k12.de.us
Maria Matos, Board Treasurer Maria.Matos@academia.k12.de.us
Nora Lewis, Board Member Nora.Lewis@academia.k12.de.us
Celeste Payne, Board Member Celeste.Payne@academia.k12.de.us
Theresa Sardella Board Member Theresa.Sardella@academia.k12.de.us
Daniel Primiani Teacher Representative Daniel.Primiani@academia.k12.de.us
Rommel Rivera Teacher Representative Rommel.Rivera@academia.k12.de.us
To be Determined Parent Representative
(TBD)
Vision & Mission
Our vision is to nurture individuals who will develop a passion for life-long learning to become
multicultural stewards and leaders in the communities they touch.
At Academia Antonia Alonso, we are driven by our mission to inspire children to become joyful,
confident, creative, bilingual learners, by providing our students with a strong bi-literate
academic and cultural foundation.Academia Antonia Alonso Staff 2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR Executive Director, School 302.351-8200, Ext.124 Mercedes.Alonso@academia.k12.de.us Coordinator for COVID-19 Mercedes Alonso Academic Dean, Dr. Shirley 302.351-8200, Ext.161 Shirley. Moux@academia.k12.de.us Moux Nurse & School Level Lead 302.351 - 8200, Ext. 109 Kim.Welsh@academia.k12.de.us for COVID, Kim Welsh Director of Facilities, 302.351-8200, Ext. 142 George.Schaab@academia.k12.de.us Nutrition and Transportation, George Schaab Director of 302.351-8200, Ext. 139 Mayara.Costa@academia.k12.de.us Communication, Marketing and Admission, Mayara Costa Visiting Teacher, Melysa 302.351-8200, Ext. 123 Melysa.Rodriguez@academia.k12.de.us Rodriguez Dean of School Culture, 302.351-8200, Ext.135 Danielle.Benson@academia.k12.de.us Danielle Benson Dean of Student Support 302.351-8200 Ext.137 Wilma.AlmonteRosario@academia.k12.de.us Services, Wilma Almonte School Counselor, Meri 302.351-8200, Ext.237 Meri.Labeck@academia.k12.de.us Labeck Food Service Manager, 302.351 - 8200, Ext. 110 Yajaira.Walker@academia.k12.de.us Yajaira Walker Transportation Manager, (302) 351-8200 Ext. 149 Bobby.Santos@academia.k12.de.us Robert Santos Administrative Support (302) 351-8200, Ext.133 Jennifer.Jones@academia.k12.de.us Coordinator, Jennifer Jones
Letter from La Academia’s Executive Director Dear La Academia Families: It is an honor, a privilege and joy to serve as your Executive Director. This is going to be another year of growth for our school. I would like to acknowledge our Board of Directors for the leadership and support they have demonstrated over the years- and most especially during these very challenging and unprecedented times. Great appreciation is also extended to our Faculty and Staff who constantly exemplify our values of UNIDOS. And to you, dear parents, I am delighted to partner with you this year and hopefully in the years to come. We come together this year, as always, with one purpose – to fulfill in your child’s academic success and social/emotional well-being while securing an environment of care and joy. It is my hope that WE may walk in unity on this journey, once again. And remember your voice is critical in our path process towards such excellence. This Parent-Student Handbook has been written to describe our program, philosophy, policies and provide many practical details that go into making each day as happy and successful for your student as possible- whether remote or in person. Please carefully read this handbook and keep it for reference throughout the year. The faculty and staff at La Academia will be glad to address any of your questions or concerns. We wish you and your child much success during this school year, and we look forward to working with you throughout the year. Once again, Welcome! Yours, Mercedes Alonso Mercedes Alonso, M.Ed., MSOD
Academia Antonia Alonso’s Core Beliefs At La Academia, whether you are a board member, faculty, staff, student or parent, we live by a code, a solid set of principles we call UNIDOS. UNIDOS is a way of being we honor. UNIDOS is La Academia’s Way – a path we choose that supports all of us in embracing our unique culture, empowers us to work with purpose, deliver on our commitments and make an impact for our students. UNIDOS is our community’s shared understanding of what we at La Academia expect of each other and what we can expect from La Academia. All decisions during the 2020-2021SY about we reopen and move through the scenarios outlined by the DDOE will be based on the guiding principle of UNIDOS: U – Unity is the strength that binds our community through these unprecedented times. It gives us courage and inspires us to work together to complete the target-whatever that may be. As a community we help each other. We take care of one another. We will stand together for the well-being of our students, faculty, staff, families and community. N- At La Academia, we Never Give Up. Throughout this pandemic we will continue to be resilient, decisive, adapt and thrive. That is our commitment. I – Integrity. We vow to always being honest and truthful with all members of La Academia’s community. We commit to rapid response and transparent communication. D – Discovery. If we are not discovering, then what are we doing? Then where are we going? Then who are we becoming? Engaging our stakeholders to discover new ideas, new ways of thinking, new ways of problem solving will ensure our continuous improvement. O – Ownership. Ownership is leadership. It is a driving force in accountability. It is a mindset. A choice. It helps us achieve our goals, reach places of great vision, joy in our work and strategic leadership in these challenging times- and always. S – Success. We believe if through this pandemic we do what we say, take ownership, remain passionate to our mission, communicate honestly, frequently and transparently, think outside the box with our stakeholders- this equals SUCCESS.
Parent Engagement
Welcome to La Academia!
Academia Antonia Alonso Charter School (La Academia) has a strong commitment to family and
community engagement and we are excited about the opportunity to serve you and your family
this school year. The key for our success is the commitment, support and participation of our
families. Our goal is to educate and support the development of the whole child – academically,
socially and emotionally – so every student in La Academia can experience success in school and
in life. Your participation is crucial in achieving this goal. This handbook is designed to give you
an overview of what to expect from your experience in La Academia as well as to provide you
with the information you will need to ensure that your child has a successful school year. At La
Academia, we recognize that learning is a partnership between families and school. Your input is
extremely valuable to us and we invite you to contact our Director of Communications, Mayara
Costa, at mayara.costa@academia.k12.de.us, and/or Lolita Hay-Currie, Parent Booster Club
President, academia.booster@academia.k12.de.us with any questions or recommendations
regarding parent involvement.
Opportunities to Get Involved at La Academia – September 2020
**Please see our School Calendar. (Appendix 1)
La Academia welcomes and encourages you to become an active member at all levels. Below are
just some of the ways that you can be involved in the month of September:
1. KINDERDUCTION for Parents of students entering Kindergarten! KINDERDUCTION is
hosted to give kindergarten students and parents an idea of what to expect when school
starts. During KINDERDUCTION, in these remote times, Kindergarten teachers will provide
parents with the expectations and routines for kindergarten. Teacher will be in touch
with you with more information about this exciting event.
2. MEET THE TEACHER NIGHT: This event provides parents with the opportunity to meet
their child's teacher(s), visit classrooms and get an overview of what students will be
learning during the school year. *NOTE: Meet the Teacher will be held virtually during this
period of Remote Learning. More information forthcoming.
3. CURRICULUM NIGHT: The purpose of this event is for parents and students to get
acquainted with their teacher(s), learn about the curriculum and discuss teacher
expectations for the classroom, homework and student participation. *NOTE: Curriculum
Night will be held virtually during this period of Remote Learning. More information
forthcoming.Register as a Volunteer
Share your talent and time with La Academia! The Parent Booster Club is responsible for
organizing and coordinating volunteers, activities and events throughout the school year. La
Academia’s leadership supports all volunteer events.
In order to encourage parent involvement while ensuring the safety of our students, La Academia
has a volunteer screening policy. All volunteers are required to register and complete a criminal
background check. We have two levels of volunteer approvals: supervised and unsupervised.
Supervised volunteers may not participate in field trips or work with children without La
Academia faculty/staff present, whereas volunteers approved as unsupervised may. La
Academia is committed to provide quality volunteer experiences that will mutually benefit
students and volunteers. Please contact our Director of Human Resources, Lisa Flynn at
Lisa.Flynn@academia.k12.de.us or Lolita Hay-Currie, Parent Booster Club President at
academia.booster@academia.k12.de.us and ask for more information.
Participate in Parent University Workshops
Parent University is a community collaborative to help families become full partners in their
children’s education. La Academia partners with community agencies and organizations to offer
free information sessions, family events and activities that will equip families with new or
additional skills, knowledge, resources and confidence. Parent University offers free, informative
content to parents, guardians and caregivers that are aligned to the following four areas:
1. Parenting Awareness – Workshops in this area explore how you can support your child’s
academic opportunities as well as challenges your children may face during these
unprecedented times in education.
2. Helping Your Child Learn in the 21st Century – Workshops in this area are designed to
empower you to raise confident, educated children ready for the 21st century.
3. Health and Wellness – These offerings provide information and activities to help
families build healthy lifestyles – physically and emotionally.
4. Personal Growth and Development – These workshops are designed to help you grow
personally and professionally so you can become the most effective advocate for your
child. To find out more about Parent University, please go to our website for a calendar
of events www.academiacharterschool.org for an up to-date listing of course offerings
and events.
Monitoring Your Child’s Academic Progress
All La Academia parents will receive report cards documenting their child’s academic progress
throughout the school year. La Academia distributes report cards three times per year. La
Academia will send home progress reports mid-way through each instructional trimester.Report Card Schedule: November 11th, 2020 March 10th, 2021 June 11th, 2021 La Academia’s Structure and School Staff Roles La Academia has a variety of support resources that are available to you. The most important person to know is your child’s classroom teacher. You can contact your child’s teacher by writing a note, sending an email, class dojo or calling the school during non instructional time (8:00AM- 8:15AM or 3:45PM-4:00PM). In addition to the teacher, there are many other staff members who help families and students succeed in education including: 1.The Executive Director is the lead school administrator. She serves as the leader of the school and is responsible for overall school operations. 2.The Academic Dean serves as the instructional leader of the school and is responsible for overall academics. 3.The Deans of Culture support the academic dean as members of the school’s administrative team and often manage different areas such as student discipline and other support services. 4.The Director of Admissions and Communications works with prospective students/families and oversees the public image and communication efforts of La Academia. 5. The School Counselor provides counseling for students, and consultation for parents and staff. 6. The Reading Interventionist and Math Teacher Lead, are trained in special strategies to help students overcome learning challenges in reading and math. 7.The Speech Therapist helps children improve their written and spoken language communication. 8.A School Nurse and School Lead during COVID attends to student health and medical needs. 9.Our Educational Diagnostician works with special education teachers and other school professionals, like the school psychologist, to develop plans to help students with learning challenges succeed. 10.The School Psychologist, provides mental health support, consultative services and evaluations for students. 11.The Family Crisis Therapist helps assess various student needs and connects students and families with critical school and community services.
12. The Homeless Liaison provides support and resources to parents and students. La Academia has a team of experts who are dedicated to ensuring that your child receives a quality education. Please feel free to reach out to the appropriate staff member with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your child’s educational experience. Other Tips for Student Success Create learning opportunities at home. Did you know that your home can be a classroom too? In addition to learning at school, there are many wonderful opportunities for learning at home and in the community. Offer your child different types of reading materials such as magazines, newspapers and books. Take time to read with your child every day. Talk to your child often as you work around the house, run errands and shop to build vocabulary and develop critical thinking skills. Also, be sure to set aside time each day for your child to do his/her homework and take the time to talk about what your child is learning in school. Advocate for your child Make sure the teacher, the school dean and school staff are aware of any special needs your child may have. Contact school staff by telephone, email or send your teacher a Class Dojo message whenever you have a question or concern, and please be sure to keep the school informed of any changes at home- personal or otherwise (change of telephone/address/custody etc.) Have family fun! Spend a few minutes each day enjoying each other’s company. Listen to your child. Let your child pick an activity to do with you like playing a game or taking a walk. Family time is important! Communications The relationship between home and school is of paramount importance in your child’s education. This makes two-way communication a critical factor in the partnership between parents and the school. La Academia connects with parents through phone calls, text messaging, website, portals and other platforms. La Academia: Website and Distance Learning Portal La Academia’s website, www.academiacharterschool.org, offers up-to-date information on the latest school news. The site provides daily updates, as well as information regarding our schools profile, board policies, school calendar and calendar of events, monthly school lunch menus/newsletters and much more. La Academia’s Distance Learning Portal can be found on La Academia’s website,
www.academiacharterschool.org. As we continue remote learning, this portal will streamline
and centralize communication between school, teachers and home for students in grades K-5.
La Academia Social Media
Find and like/follow us on Facebook at @AcademiaAntoniaAlonso, Instagram at @laacademiaaa
and Twitter at @AcademiaCharter.
La Academia REMIND and Class Dojo
-Remind is a communication platform La Academia uses to send messages in real time to parents.
This is a safe communication platform wherein personal contact information stays private and
phone numbers aren’t exchanged between teachers, students and parents.
-Class Dojo is a school communication platform that the school, teachers, students and families
use every day to build close-knit communities by sharing what’s happening in the school, what’s
being learned in the classroom/home through photos, videos and messages.
La Academia’s Blackboard Connect (automated/Robocalls)
Blackboard Connect is a mass notification system that allows La Academia to send updates and
emergency alerts to parents, guardian, emergency contacts listed in the school through phone
calls and text messages.
Severe Weather
The safety of all children is our first concern when deciding if schools must be opened later, closed
or closed early because of weather conditions. Here are some important points to remember:
1. The decision to close schools will be made no later than 5:30 a.m. If possible, the decision
will be made the evening before.
2. La Academia has the option of operating with a one-hour/two-hour delay or opt Full
Remote.
3. Announcements about changes in school opening will be delivered through our parent
notification system Blackboard Connect (automated/robocalls) and REMIND, social
media platforms and website. You can also tune into area radio and television stations.
4. Do not call the school or the news media.
5. If no announcement is made, then schools will operate on a normal schedule. Weather
conditions sometimes worsen during the day after children have arrived at school. If early
dismissal of schools is necessary, information will be announced through the parent
notification system (REMIND), local radio and television stations and La Academia’s web
and social media sites. If school is canceled or dismissed early, La Academia will provide
information about all activities for students, including La Academia’s after-school
activities.
**Note: Please know, in case of school closing due to inclement weather students will beconnecting to La Academia’s digital platforms to access student content for the day. After School Enrichment Program After-School Enrichment The After-School Enrichment Program (ASEP) provides programming for Kindergarten through 5th grade students beyond the regular school day. ASEP offers a safe, nurturing and enriching environment with a relaxed atmosphere and activity choices. Programming is designed to further the growth of children’s social skills and to support their academic achievement. Regardless of the activity a student chooses, ASEP is a time for talking with friends, playing games of strategy, physical and recreational activities. ASEP is open from school dismissal until 5:30 at latest. Program fees covering program costs may apply. Before/After School Care Program Before-School Care is offered at Academia Antonia Alonso. For more information, please contact Jessica Marrero at (302) 442-7731 or jmarrero@thelatincenter.org. Attendance There is strong evidence of a direct correlation between good attendance and student achievement. Parents must stress to their children the importance of attending school regularly. At the beginning of the school year, parents and students are notified of La Academia’s attendance policy. Parents and guardians are responsible for seeing that their children attend school each day it is in session, whether in person or remote. Attendance for children under the age of 16 is compulsory, whether in person or remote. A parent may be prosecuted in a criminal action if a student between the ages of 7 and 16 or enrolled in K-2 prior to age 7, has more than 10 unexcused absences. The maximum penalty provided by law upon conviction is 120 days’ imprisonment and/or a fine of $200, at the discretion of the judge. In addition, a child between the ages of 7 and 16 could be referred by the school to the Department of Juvenile Justice for the filing of a petition asking the court to find the child to be undisciplined. A student must attend school for at least half of the day to be counted present. Parents will be contacted by La Academia’s Visiting Teacher when their child accumulates 3, 6 and 10 unexcused absences. After 10 unexcused absences, the Visiting Teacher will issue a 10day letter stating that the student is in violation of Delaware attendance law and parents may be referred for prosecution. The absences listed below are considered excused once the teacher/visiting teacher have
received verification:
1. Illness of student with a doctor’s note
2. Death in the immediate family
3. Quarantine
4. Doctor appointment
5. Court proceeding
6. Religious holiday (approved religious observances; must be approved in advance)
The absences listed below and all other absences not listed above are unexcused:
1. Bad weather
2. Missing the bus
3. Car trouble
4. Oversleeping
Tardies
Students are expected to be at school on time, 8:40AM (For Remote Learning scenario, students
are expected to be ready to connect with their teachers and/or digital platforms by 8:50AM).
Students tardy for such reasons as oversleeping or missing the bus are not considered excused.
In addition, students are expected to remain at school and be on time for classes the remainder
of the day.
Truancy
Truancy is a significant factor in academic failure. Research shows a high correlation between
truancy, the school dropout rate and juvenile delinquency. La Academia expects all students to
attend school regularly. To meet this expectation, School-Based Truancy Court is a community
partnership of La Academia and Family Court Judges. Its purpose is to eliminate barriers to
regular school attendance, provide comprehensive support services to students with excessive
absences and build important connections between families, schools and community resources.
Students with Disabilities
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law that makes available a free
appropriate public education to eligible children with disabilities throughout the nation and
ensures special education and related services to those children.
The stated purpose of the IDEA is:
to ensure that all children with disabilities have available to them a free appropriate
public education that emphasizes special education and related services designed tomeet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment, and
independent living;
to ensure that the rights of children with disabilities and parents of such children are
protected;
to assist States, localities, educational service agencies, and Federal agencies to provide
for the education of all children with disabilities;
to assist States in the implementation of a statewide, comprehensive, coordinated,
multidisciplinary, interagency system of early intervention services for infants and
toddlers with disabilities and their families;
to ensure that educators and parents have the necessary tools to improve educational
results for children with disabilities by supporting system improvement activities;
coordinated research and personnel preparation; coordinated technical assistance,
dissemination, and support; and technology development and media services;
to assess, and ensure the effectiveness of, efforts to educate children with disabilities.
Americans with Disabilities Act
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
(ADA), La Academia does not discriminate against any person on the basis of disability in
admission or access to the programs, services or activities, in the treatment of individuals with
disabilities, or in any aspect of operations. La Academia will generally, upon request, provide
appropriate aids and services leading to effective communication for qualified persons with
disabilities so they can participate equally in all La Academia programs, services, and activities.
Individuals with disabilities who require an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication
should contact the school.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires La Academia to provide a free
appropriate public education (FAPE) to children who need special education and related services
because of a disability.
Identifying Those Who May Qualify for a 504 Accommodation Plan
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is a civil rights law that bans disability discrimination. Under
Section 504, students with disabilities have the right to reasonable accommodations. The
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 defines a person with disabilities as “any person who has a physical or
mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity or bodily function, has
a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having an impairment.” Major life activities
include, but are not limited to, caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing,
hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working. The student’s physical or mental impairment
must substantially limit the student’s performance of the indicated major life activity(s).
Otherwise, La Academia’s Student Support Team may determine that the student is not eligible
for accommodations under Section 504.Section 504 Student Service Plan A Section 504 plan describes the accommodations that the school provides to support the student’s education. The team that determined the student’s eligibility for Section 504 and identified the needed accommodations will create this service plan to provide clarity and direction to the individuals delivering services or making accommodations. A Section 504 Student Service Plan may be updated at any time to reflect changes and recommendations by the team. The plan should be reviewed on a yearly basis or updated earlier if the student’s condition changes. IDEA applies only to individuals from birth through age 21. Students ineligible for services provided under IDEA may be eligible for accommodations under Section 504. Finally, Section 504 covers individuals of all ages. The 504 Plan provides accommodations for students in the school building. Identifying Student Disabilities (IEP) Anyone may raise a concern about a student’s unique need for special help. Once a concern is raised, parents, teachers, or other staff members meet to discuss all relevant information about the student. Based on the information received, the IEP team considers whether the student qualifies as an individual with a disability. If the team needs more information, the team will obtain the parent’s consent to conduct an evaluation. If the team determines that the student has a disability, the team identifies what types of support is appropriate to meet the student’s needs. Programs for Exceptional Children The primary purpose for Exceptional Children programs is to ensure that students with disabilities develop academically, physically and emotionally through the provision of an appropriate and individualized education in the least restrictive environment. A student with a disability may qualify to receive special education and related services by meeting eligibility criteria. These services include accommodations and/or modifications to the curriculum, specially designed instruction by a special education provider or the provision of support and training for staff who work with the student. La Academia offers a full continuum of services to meet the needs of students with disabilities. Role of Parents Parents are their child’s first and most important teachers, as well as their advocates. If a parent believes his or her child has a disability or is having problems in school, parents should contact the school principal, school counselor, school nurse, or their child’s teacher to discuss these concerns. Building a strong parent/school relationship begins with effective communication.
Parents play a key role by providing important information to schools about their child’s needs, particularly for students with disabilities. As an added benefit, this involvement demonstrates the importance the parent places on education. Role of Teachers Teachers play an integral role in the development and implementation of a student’s IEP or 504 Plan. Teachers attend eligibility and review meetings, implement needed accommodations, and provide ongoing progress monitoring of the accommodations listed on a student’s plan. A teacher’s ongoing communication with the student’s parent/guardian and school staff ensures that the student’s needs are being met. Procedural Safeguards Procedural safeguards are the procedures schools and parents must use in making decisions about services for students with disabilities. La Academia has the procedural safeguards information available for parents upon request. Parents have the right: 1. receive notice regarding the identification, evaluation, and placement of their child 2. receive prior notice when the school is changing or discontinuing services for their child 3. review their child’s records and participate impartial hearing 4. a review process In addition, La Academia provides notification of the following: 1. policies of nondiscrimination 2. grievance procedures 3. contact information Student Discipline If a student has been suspended for more than 10 days cumulatively during a school year, the student’s IEP Team must convene a meeting to conduct a manifestation determination review (MDR). Hospital/Homebound Services A student who is physically unable to attend regular class at school for an extended period of time may qualify for homebound instruction. Homebound instruction is a service provided to allow the student to have access to, and make progress in, their course work. Students must be enrolled at La Academia. Parents’ Rights For a complete explanation about parental right of students with disabilities, please consult the Delaware Procedural Safeguards: Handbook on Parents’ Rights, which is available on La Academia’s website:
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