TCA Family Handbook

The Creighton Academy

Creighton School District Handbook

The Creighton Academy Family Handbook

The Creighton Academy School Staff Directory

Creighton School District

Creighton School District Website

The Creighton Academy Website

2022-2023 CSD Calendar

District Child Nutrition and Wellness

The Creighton Academy is a public school of choice which means that all students whose families are highly invested in our model, including our Parent Compact are invited to take a tour, meet with the principal and decide if this is the right school for their child.

Animals are not allowed on the Creighton Academy campus. We all enjoy walking our dogs, but before and after school drop-off and pick-up are not appropriate times to have them with you. Please leave them at home. Animals may not be brought to school except for special circumstances. The principal may approve special requests for animals to be present on campus after careful consideration of the request. Approval is based on special and/or mitigating circumstances, health and safety issues, and minimizing disruption to the educational environment.

The Phoenix Police Department highly encourage parents and students to follow these guidelines:

Children in grades three and above may ride bicycles to school. Students in grades two and below are strongly discouraged from riding bikes to school unless escorted by a parent.

The Creighton Academy very strongly recommends bicycle helmets. It is our district’s position that bicycle helmets should be actively encouraged.

Eligible students are encouraged to: Follow traffic laws on bike safety to and from school. Wear a bike helmet. Walk bikes on campus. Park in the bike rack. Use crosswalks.

Skateboards, ripsticks, and scooters, may be ridden to school, and are to be stored in the bike rack before the school day begins. The bike rack is locked and secured throughout the school day, however, the items stored are done so at the risk of the owner. The school is not responsible for any items lost or stolen from the bike rack area.

Roller blades are not to be ridden or brought to school.

Harassment, Intimidation, Hazing and Threats of Harm (Governing Board policies J-2982 and JICFA-EB)

See CSD Handbook

Electronic devices such as music players, games, cameras, and video cameras are prohibited on all campuses. If a phone has a photo or video capability, it is not to be used on campus at any time.

Cell phones are not to be used at school and should be turned off upon entering campus or during school-sponsored activities. Phones should remain off until students leave campus or the school-sponsored activity. If a student violates this rule, the following progressive steps will be taken:

• 1st Offense: The cell phone will be confiscated and held until after school. The student can pick the cell phone up at the end of the day. The school will notify the parent of the student’s violation of policy.

• 2nd Offense: The cell phone will be confiscated and the parents will be notified that they must pick up the phone.

• 3rd Offense: The cell phone will be confiscated and the parents will be notified that they must pick up the phone. The student will lose the privilege of bringing the phone to school.

If a student continues to bring the phone on campus after the 3rd offense, suspension procedures may be applied. At any time the student is found to be using the phone to violate school rules or district policy, district discipline procedures may be applied. Schools are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged phones or electronic devices and therefore discourage these items from being brought to school.

Children

• We believe that all children deserve to develop in an environment that is nurturing, safe and intelligent.

• We believe that every member of our community has a fundamental right to be treated with respect regardless of age, gender, ethnic origin, sexual preference, religion, race or disability.

• We believe that intelligence is not rare, but a state of the healthy mind. As such, it can and should be nurtured and encouraged.

• We believe that wisdom can be nurtured and cultivated in a positive, affirming and intelligent learning environment.

• We believe that the development of whole, healthy individuals requires that our many dimensions be nurtured, including the spiritual, intellectual, physical, social and emotional.

• We believe that children can learn constructive modes of problem-solving and conflict resolution, thereby creating a more peaceful learning and living environment.

Families

• We believe that parents are the principle influence in the child's life. The school provides a secondary supportive role to the home. It is a tandem cooperative relationship between home and school which best serves the child.

Staff

• We believe that the model of our own behavior serves as the most distinct teacher to the child.

• We strive to create a true balance among freedom, order and responsibility in each classroom.

• We believe that we are intimately interdependent with other life forms on this planet. As educators, it is our responsibility to foster knowledge of, interest in and responsibility for the natural world we inhabit.

Curriculum & Programs

• We center the programs and curriculum of The Creighton Academy on the natural needs of human development.

• We believe that all forms of expression and communication should be nurtured. Art, music, literature, drama and other forms are fundamental modes of expression for the human spirit.

• We believe that the technology of the “Information Age" must be made available to children as is appropriate for their developmental level. Access to, and instruction in the use of, computers is fundamental to the Elementary program.
  
  

Learning Environment

• We describe the learning environment of The Creighton Academy as active as opposed to passive. The environment is dynamic, with children functioning as active agents in the learning process by making choices and learning to be responsible for those choices.

• We offer a flexible learning environment that responds to individual needs, has an adaptable curriculum, and honors diverse learning styles.

• We believe that the School has a responsibility to prepare its students for life, balancing academic excellence with the development of personal and practical life skills.

Community

• We believe that we are a dynamic member of our community. We nurture and promote “outreach” activities that involve the children in community improvement projects. We nurture an extended family community within the school whose participants are supported at all levels by the whole community.

• We believe in the fullness of life and the value of a diverse community, which promotes an understanding for and acceptance of all peoples.

The Creighton Academy uses the Love and Logic approach in all learning environments and encourages parents to use it at home.

The Love and Logic Parent programs are professional programs that have a tremendous reputation for producing excellent results in changing behavior in children and adolescents through changes used in parenting beliefs. Both programs were developed by Jim Fay and Foster W. Cline, M.D. of the Cline/Fay Institute, Inc. of Golden, Colorado. After taking the classes, parents using the techniques have stated, “Parenting is now fun again.” One mother using the techniques taught to her stated, “I don’t know why schools and other parents aren’t using this. This is great information for everybody to have. It is the only thing that has worked on my son to get results.”

The main idea in how the Becoming A Love and Logic Parent program works is through the philosophy that children need to learn how to have “real world” learning experiences. The way to have this happen is to NOT protect them from the consequences that come from the mistakes they make in their bad decisions. Parents are trained to consult with their children when they make bad choices while they’re young and the consequences are not expensive and damaging. Rather than getting angry at their child’s mistakes, parents learn to offer empathy and consequences to their children, putting the thinking and responsibility right back where it belongs – on the child. Preparing children for the real world is the biggest job parents face. This is what “parenting with Love and Logic” is all about – getting our children ready to leave home at age eighteen, knowing they are not at risk. We want them to look at the real world and say: “I recognize this world! We practiced for it at home!”

All Guidelines are in alignment with District Policy.

At The Creighton Academy, one of the most important aspects is creating autonomous learners and thinkers. We want our kids to make choices and advocate for themselves and we believe that starts by making decisions about clothing. We would like children and parents to make decisions about what to wear to school.

Students must wear:

• Students must wear clothing including both a shirt with pants or skirt, or the equivalent (for example dresses, leggings, or shorts) and shoes.

• Shirts and dresses must have fabric in the front and on the sides (under the arms).

• Clothing must cover undergarments.

• Fabric covering breasts, genitals and buttocks must be opaque.

• Clothing must be suitable for all scheduled classroom activities including physical education, science labs, and other activities where unique hazards exist.

• Clothing that fits their body

• Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.

Students may wear:

• Hats (outside), including religious headwear

• Hoodie sweatshirts (over head in class is not allowed)

• Fitted pants, including leggings, yoga pants, and “skinny jeans”

• Sweatpants, shorts, skirts, dresses, pants (may not be shorter than fingertips when hands are straight down by sides)

• Ripped jeans, as long as the rips fall within the shorts guidelines is not exposed

• Athletic attire

• Clothing with commercial or athletic logos provided they do not violate the guidelines in the "Cannot Wear" section

• Sun-protective clothing, including but not limited to hats, for outdoor use during the school day

Students cannot wear:

• Midriff-baring shirts
• Spandex head to toe (ie: body con dresses)

• Shorts, skirts, dresses (may not be shorter than fingertips when hands are straight down by sides)

• Violent language or images

• Images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any item or activity illegal to children) or that eludes to such activities

• Hate speech, profanity, pornography

• Images and/or language that create a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class

• Visible underwear or bathing suits of similar design – visible waistbands or straps on undergarments worn under other clothing are not a violation

We use a Spanish immersion model where students have dedicated time in their day for a variety of methods of learning Spanish for approximately 50% of their day.

• Targeted Spanish Support-direct instruction in Spanish basics from vocabulary to verb conjugation

• Math Instruction in Spanish-All Math classes are taught only in Spanish using an immersion model.

• Continuous Model- During PBL Time students will do one day in English and then continue the instruction the next day in Spanish

Every Wednesday students will be dismissed at 12:40 so that teachers can attend professional development training. Lunch will be provided on these days.

At The Creighton Academy we aim to provide high-quality, comprehensive education that fosters your child’s love of learning and addresses the whole child academically, emotionally, and socially. The curriculum at The Creighton Academy is driven by developmental levels in the areas of Reading, Writing and Math in tandem with the Arizona College and Career Ready Standards.

The materials and resources used vary by program, however the goals for our school are consistent:

• To enter a partnership with parents in the education of their children

• To lead children toward mastery of individually identified intellectual, social, physical, and daily life skills

• To foster in the children deep and persistent curiosity that will lead to lifelong pursuit of knowledge

• To help children develop self-confidence

• To assist each child develop a habit of concentration

• To instill in each child a sense of personal responsibility for the world in which we live

• To spark in our children wonder, imagination, and joy

TCA participates in monthly fire drills. They are always on a different day and different time in an effort to test numerous schedules throughout the school day. This allows us to take care of our students outside the building if the need should arrive.

In addition The Creighton Academy also participates in practice lockdowns each semester, allowing us to practice keeping students safe inside the building.

During lockdowns we may be advised by police to not let anyone into the school (level 2 lockdown). A sign will be placed on the outside doors if this situation arises. Parents are to wait at home until the lockdown is over. Coming to the school may only add to the crisis and possibly cause more fear for our students.

All of these practices have helped our school be prepared for any situation and be handled in a calm and orderly manner, in return making a very safe environment for our students.

See CSD Handbook

Before a student may attend a field trip, a written permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian is required. Supervision by school personnel will be provided on all trips. Administration may deny permission for a child to attend a field trip or require a parent/guardian to attend with him/her if there are safety concerns.

*ALL PARENTS WHO ATTEND FIELD TRIPS MUST HAVE BEEN THROUGH VOLUNTEER TRAINING*

The Creighton Academy’s Philosophy on grading is that letter grades tell us where students are in relation to the standards for the grade they are assigned.

Mid-term Progress Reports will be used by all teachers in order to notify parents of major problems in student work habits and/or achievement. These reports will come home at the midpoint of each 9-week grading period. If Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled at mid-quarter, the conference may take the place of the written report.

Weekly Progress Reports will be sent home with all 3rd-7th every Take Home Tuesday grade students to ensure that all families stay informed throughout the school year. Any students who have missing assignments or any grades below a C must have their progress report signed and returned the next school day.

Programs for the academically talented are available for students at The Creighton Academy. Students are selected based on the results of placement tests. In grades 4-6, students are pulled from the regular classrooms at appropriate times to receive specialized instruction in reading, math, and non-verbal reasoning. Identified students in grades K-3rd are placed into a cluster classroom Gifted cluster teachers plan appropriately challenging instruction for their gifted students. This may involve acceleration, enrichment, and various extended learning opportunities targeted to develop the following skills through learning in the content areas: Logical thinking, Reasoning skills, Critical and creative thinking, and Problem solving. Gifted students receive instruction that is differentiated in content, process, product, learning environment and assessment.

All students undergo an initial screening designed to identify strengths in any major areas of concern. These areas may include vision, hearing, speech, academics, and/or behavior. As students progress through school, parents may request that staff members help solve behavioral problems.

The Creighton Academy believes strongly that it is important for kids to spend time, outside of school, playing and off of electronics so generally speaking, we don’t send worksheets, etc home for homework.

However, we believe strongly that daily reading is a valuable learning activity. Among its many applications include reinforcing a love of literature, self-discipline, responsibility, wise use of time, and an opportunity for parents to connect with their children on a variety of topics.

Students at The Creighton Academy are expected to participate in reading Monday through Thursday for the amount of times listed below:

K-10 minutes daily

1-7-20 minutes daily

Communication between teachers and parents regarding nightly reading is considered essential. Parents need to be advised of what is expected of their children and how they can reinforce the learning potential of the reading.

Teachers may send home additional homework, not to exceed 30 minutes of time.

Immunization records are required as regulated by the State of Arizona. Rules are in place for those families requesting exemptions from any vaccine. Complete immunization information can be accessed through The CSD Handbook.

Each of the learning environments are thoughtfully arranged and offers an inviting space for activity that is focused and calm. Learning materials are accessible to the children to foster independence as the students go about their daily work. There are spaces in the space that allow for group activity as well as areas where the student can work alone. Each learning environment is open and spacious to allow younger children to make choices when it comes to where and how they learn best.

Students are encouraged to participate in frequent checkout of library materials as well as utilizing the Media Center for both pleasure and research experiences. ALL materials must be checked out before taken from the library. Students may check out two (2) books at a time. However, if many classes are dealing with similar subjects, students may be limited to one (1) book per subject. Also, no books may be checked out by students with overdue books. Students are responsible for materials they have checked out under their name. Lost books must be found, replaced, or paid for before a student’s check out privileges are restored. Every effort will be made, according to the district’s policy of collecting for lost books, to remind students of their obligations to make restitution for the lost book.

When a student is absent or out of the classroom, it is the student’s responsibility to talk to his/her teacher to obtain missing assignments. Teachers will cooperate with students in providing their assignments. Parents requesting assignments for absent children should make the request at the school office before 9:45 am, and plan to pick up the material in the office after the school day is complete.

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) meets when the student is experiencing learning, behavior, or other school related problems. The purpose of the meeting(s) is to determine whether all appropriate services have been considered, and whether the student’s needs can be met within the regular education setting. Multi-Tiered Systems of Support may:

• Recommend the assistance of any remedial specialists

• Recommend other services available at the school site or in the district or community

• Recommend specific strategies to be implemented by the classroom teacher

• Recommend formal assessment of the student if it appears special education should be considered

The members of MTSS may include: Site MTSS Coordinator (Effective Schools Coach), school psychologist, classroom teacher, school nurse, speech-language pathologist, resource support staff, building principal, parents and/or guardians

Psychological services, speech, occupational therapy, and programs designed for students with special needs are also available. In addition, a Student Teacher Assistance Team regularly meets to discuss and assess needs of the students whose names are recommended by the principal, classroom teacher, and/or parents.

Weapons and look-alike weapons are not allowed at school.

Non-school related items (for which the school cannot be responsible) that could be disruptive and/or dangerous in the classroom and on the playground. Staff have the right to prohibit any non-school related item.

Arrival and Departure: Listed are some arrival and departure, as well as safety reminders for you and your child(ren).

• The Creighton Academy hours are from 7:25-2:40

• Students are not allowed to be dropped off before 7:00 am

• Students are to leave promptly after dismissal each school day

• Students that arrive after 7:30 am and the front playground gate has been closed must be signed in at the office before going to the classroom. Students are not considered tardy if they arrive after 7:30, when the second bell sounds.

• Parents of students who disregard these policies will be contacted

• Do not allow your child to leave home too early (loitering time) or to take too long to walk home

• We want your child to be safe

• In this day of “stranger danger” notices, one must always urge one’s children to be careful going to and from school

• These policies exist for the welfare of your child

In order for students to learn responsibility and for significant educational progress to take place in school, certain burdens of responsibility rests on the student. We are striving to teach students that this responsibility belongs to each person individually. It is expected that each student will show up for class with the necessary tools for learning. These may vary from class to class, but generally include pencil, paper, textbooks, and completed homework assignments. This also includes: lunch, snacks, bottled water, musical instruments. Knowledge of how they will go home at the end of the day. Because it can be very unsettling to a child throughout the school day, make these arrangements before you drop off your students in the morning.

The Creighton Academy provides Special Area rotations for all students in kindergarten through 6th grade. Students will rotate into Art, Music, STEM, and PE, going to one special every school day, following 6 day rotation.

• STEM, in English

• This course introduces students to the four areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through an interdisciplinary approach that will increase awareness, build knowledge, develop problem solving skills, and potentially awaken an interest in pursuing a career in STEM

• Spanish, in Spanish

• Spanish, as a Special area, teaches students to greet people, describe family and friends, talk about hobbies, and communicate about other topics, such as home life, occupations, travel, and medicine. Each lesson presents vocabulary, grammar, and culture in context, followed by explanations and exercises.

• Art, in English

• Our goal is to give every student the opportunity to discover and develop his/her artistic ability, no matter at which level it exists. The Creighton Academy curriculum was created to inspire students to recognize their abilities and technical skills, as well as understand the impact of art throughout history and cultural differences.

• Music, in Spanish

• The music teacher will be teaching, in Spanish, and educating students about music and music history. Students are expected to learn specific music skills, just as they would be expected to learn skills in any other subject area.

• Physical Education in English

• The purpose of our PE program is to give students opportunities to develop broad physical skills, vitality, and emotional stability, a realistic self-image, and respect for their own abilities. Vigorous activities provide these opportunities, and also provide a sound platform for physical growth. Students are expected to participate to the best of their ability.

Students are required to wear tennis shoes or rubber-soled shoes that have been approved by the PE teacher. Students wearing inappropriate shoes or tying them inappropriately will not be allowed to participate. Parents should inform the PE teacher of any special health problems their child might have, i.e. asthma, rheumatic fever, etc.

• Band, OPTIONAL for 3rd-7th Grade: An opportunity to receive band instrumental instruction, and is open to all 4-6th grade students if they so choose. This group will meet during the school day during the regular special rotation schedule. Parents may be responsible for providing the instrument of choice, depending on available inventory. Students will perform at least once each semester for our community.

Students in grade 4-6 will have classroom representatives and student body officers to serve on the The Creighton Academy Student Council each school year. This is a positive activity in which the students develop leadership, responsibility, and pride in themselves and their community.

At its heart, The Creighton Academy emphasizes independence, freedom within limits, and a respect for the child and we hire teachers who have the same philosophies.

We know that the connection between a child and his or her teacher is invaluable so we ask that you keep the lines of communication open between all parties. If you ever have a concern about your child's teacher, we ask that you start with a conversation with him or her as they are the people who have the most influence in your child's life each and every day.

iPads and Devices - See CSD Handbook

Digital Citizenship - See CSD Handbook

All visitors are to report to the administration office. Each person must sign in and out at the office and must have a visible visitor sticker/badge while on campus. Administration may refuse a visitor that may cause additional supervision or raise a safety concern.

For more information, see our Volunteer Handbook

Through the help and efforts of the PTO and individual staff members, The Creighton Academy has developed a great group of volunteers. This group of dedicated parents and members of the community volunteer their time and talents to the school. They work with students and staff members on a variety of tasks intended to build community, enhance the learning environment, and improve student performance. Please consider volunteering at The Creighton Academy; contact the office, a PTO member, or your classroom teacher if you are interested.

• All volunteers wishing to spend time on campus or chaperone a field trip must complete a Volunteer Form and have it on file in the school office each school year. These forms are always available in the front office.

• Please sign in and out at the office each time you visit the school, and wear a volunteer tag while on site.

• Volunteers must abide by the same guidelines as all visitors to our campus. All volunteers must complete the volunteer paperwork before working with children.

Thank you for taking time to read The Creighton Academy Family Handbook. Our hope is for every family to feel welcomed, informed, and excited about being part of The Creighton Academy.