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Family and Student Handbook

Below is our Parent and Student Handbook. 
 
All parents/guardians must sign the handbook acknowledgement.

WELCOME!
Welcome to AXIS International Academy (AXIS)! We are delighted that you have chosen to join our school community.
Our handbook is designed to help make your experience here successful, safe, and productive by communicating an understanding of our guidelines, policies, and procedures. It cannot cover every situation or question but should direct you through the most common situations. Our expectation is that everyone is responsible for knowing and adhering to its contents.

EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY: 
AXIS’s policy is to provide an equal education opportunity for all students. We wish everyone to feel included and to know that we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, disability, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, or other protected characteristics, or social or economic background

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT
 Mission Statement: By advancing academic excellence, cross-cultural competence, multilingualism, and social-emotional and cognitive skills development, AXIS International Academy empowers children to lead choice-filled lives and be thriving citizens of character in their local and global community.

Vision Statement: Empowering citizens of character to thrive in their local and global communities.

The AXIS Student & Parent Handbook is a flexible document. The AXIS Board and Administration reserves the right to make changes as necessary throughout the year. Please check the school website for any and all updates.

PHONE NUMBERS
 

SCHOOL WEBSITE
The school’s website is www.AXIScolorado.org. There you will find information on upcoming events, the current news and updates, breakfast and lunch menus, calendar, staff information, classroom websites, and other general information.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION
Email newsletters will be sent out weekly. The email newsletters are sent to all emails registered in Infinite Campus. Paper copies of the weekly newsletter will also be available in the front office upon request.

SCHOOL HOURS
Full-day Kinder – 5th grade: 8:00 am – 3:10 pm Monday – Friday
Half-day kinder: 8:00am – 11:30am
Preschool: 8:15am-3:15pm
Please check the school website frequently for updated schedules and times.

Before school care opens at 6:30am.  Our before school care program is run by AXIS Family Programs, please visit the Family Programs section of our website. Before care students should not be dropped off before 6:30 am. Parents/legal guardians who consistently drop students off at school before 6:30 am may be reported to Social Services. 

 

Main doors open at 7:40am. Students will not be allowed to be dropped up before 7:40am unless they are registered with the before school care provider.  

 

Monday-Friday Morning Entry Procedures 

  6:30am 

 Before care opens.  

  7:45-   8:00am 

 Doors open. Students report to the playground or gym in inclement weather and line up with their classes at 7:55am to head to class. 

  8:00am 

 Bell rings. Anyone entering the classroom after the bell is tardy. Morning announcements are followed by Morning Meeting. 

 

CLOSED CAMPUS
AXIS is a CLOSED CAMPUS. Students are not permitted to leave campus. Parents must sign their student out in the Front Office to take them off campus during school hours. Students may not sign themselves out or leave campus except as provided for under the section “Procedures for Early Dismissals.”

VISITORS AND SECURITY
All visitors and parents must report to the main school office upon entering the building. AXIS strives to provide a safe environment, and this is accomplished through the following ways:

  • All parents and visitors must sign in at the main office when entering the school
  • All parents and visitors must leave their valid driver’s license when checking in to the building, and they must wear an identifying badge while at the school. Those not here on official business will be asked to leave the
  • For security reasons, parents will be notified if a student is absent and the parent has not notified the school.
  • Please email attendance@axiscolorado.org and your child’s teachers to notify the school of an absence.
  • The school grounds will be monitored before and after school while students are arriving and departing.
  • Siblings and preschool children are not allowed to accompany parents when they volunteer in the classroom, unless they have special permission from the
  • Children who are not AXIS students are considered visitors and must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all
  • Potential and current AXIS parents are welcome to observe a
  • Visitors who fail to abide by school guidelines for visitors may be requested to leave school property and may be subject to future restrictions regarding school visits. Law enforcement may also be contacted.
CARPOOLS:

Parents are responsible for transportation of students to and from the school. If you are interested in participating in “Way to Go” (a carpooling organizing program) please contact the front office to receive a form.

 

TRANSPORTATION:
AXIS contracts bus services with Colorado Early Colleges to provide transportation to families in need. Please visit the transportation section of our website for information on fees, rules and conduct.

Should unplanned closures due to bad weather or emergencies require the closing of the AXIS facility, notification will be made via the AXIS website, Facebook page, and an AXIS email alert. Parents should ensure their email is up to date in the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. In all cases of bad weather, parents should exercise their own judgement whether to have their child in school. If the school is not delayed or closed, the administration will determine whether student tardiness or absence will be excused. Any determination by the administration which negatively affects a student may be appealed to the Head of School, and then to the AXIS Board of Directors.  

 

Given that AXIS is located in the Poudre School District (PSD), if PSD is closed it is highly likely AXIS will be closed as well. Because AXIS students come from all over northern Colorado, AXIS may close school even if PSD remains open. When school is cancelled, all after school and evening activities will be cancelled as well.  

 

For additional details please visit the Inclement Weather Procedures page of this website. 

All students not involved in an after school enrichment activity or after school care must be off campus within 15 minutes of dismissal time. AXIS cannot take responsibility for students who remain past this time. Students not picked up by that time will be taken to the after school program and parents will be charged the single-day rate. Please call the office if you have an emergency and cannot be on time to pick-up your child. If we are unable to make contact with a parent/guardian by 4:00 pm, the local police and Social Service Departments may be notified. Siblings or carpool students may not be left in the care of brothers/sisters or other students involved in after school activities.   

Please visit the Pick Up  / Drop Off section of our website for more details. 

AXIS offers an after school program through AXIS Family Programs. There is an annual registration fee plus tuition to participate in this program. For additional information on after school care, please visit the AXIS Family Programs section of our website here: https://www.axiscolorado.org/familyprograms/

 

AXIS also offers after school enrichment options. Local organizations run a variety of after school enrichment classes at AXIS. Each trimester, AXIS will compile these options and post them on our website. Parents may register their children for classes. The payment and registration are completed directly through the organization not through AXIS. Likewise, any questions about programming should be directed to the organization itself. Any organizations interested in offering classes to AXIS students or parents should contact i nfo@AXIScolorado.org. Volunteer organizations that do not profit from registration or class fees are not charged the trimester usage fee. The fee covers cleaning and utilities. Visit the AXIS Enrich section of our website to learn more. 

Students must learn all emergency procedures and instructions given by the AXIS staff. AXIS will conduct needed drills as mandated by Colorado State codes to ensure the school community will respond to an emergency safely and effectively. Teachers will instruct students regarding the posted procedures for their classroom and the school building, including specific instructions for safe primary and secondary exits. The response to all drills is to be prompt, quiet, and orderly. Full cooperation is necessary for the proper execution of these drills, and students are to remember their welfare is our sole purpose for practicing them.

 

IT IS EXTERMELY IMPORTANT THAT PARENTS DISCUSS WITH THEIR CHILD EMERGENCY PROCEDURES THEY SHOULD FOLLOW IN THE EVENT SCHOOL IS CLOSED EARLY.

CLASSROOM CONDUCT 

Individual teachers handle all matters of classroom discipline. AXIS implements positive behavior practices. If a child is repeatedly not meeting expectations and guardians will be notified. Severe misconduct will be referred to the office, and parents and guardians will be notified. Student office referrals can result in an in-school suspension, out of school suspension, or expulsion depending on the nature of the conduct. 

 

CAFETERIA CONDUCT  

All students are expected to eat lunch onsite calmly and with manners. All trash is to be thrown away in the proper receptacle. It is the responsibility of each student to make sure the cafeteria and other areas of the campus remain litter free. Glass containers are not allowed for safety.  

 

COMMON AREA CONDUCT 

All students are expected to follow agreements and expectations across all school areas: hallways, bathrooms, yard, and gym. All teachers and staff at AXIS support with ensuring students meet behavior expectations across all areas of the school. Please see the previous section on bus conduct. 

 

FOOD ALLERGIES 

Parents are responsible to inform the office and their student’s teachers of any food allergies their child might have. AXIS has a nut-free table where children with nut allergies should sit during lunch and breakfast time.

 

GUM 

Gum is not allowed. 

 

ELECTRONICS 

Cell phones, cameras, MP3 players, CD/DVD players, and video games for students in any form are not allowed at school or at school related events unless specifically authorized by staff for the particular event. 

 

TOYS 

Toys, game cards, or collectable cards are not allowed at school without specific teacher permission.  

 

PERSONAL VALUABLES 

School is not responsible for personal items especially valuable ones. Students are strongly encouraged to leave valuable items, including cash, at home.   

  •  

SCHOOL FAMILY COMMUNICATIONS AND ASSESSMENTS 

We know that when schools and families work together, kids do better. For information on our School Family Communication, School-Family Events, Family Conferences and Assessments, please visit the School Family Communication section of our website. 

  • Assessment Information / Parent Refusal 
  • For the 2020-2021 school year, Colorado schools are mandated to administer the CMAS test. AXIS International Academy will administer CMAS online during the testing window set by the state (April-May 2021). 
  • Parents may choose to opt-out of state-required CMAS testing. Specific paperwork documenting a parent’s reason for testing refusal must be submitted to the school.  Please request an opt-out for from our Program Specialist, Melissa Schramm (mschramm@axiscolorado.org) as she collects and maintains these documents.  While we highly encourage that students participate in state testing, students and parents are guaranteed no negative consequences of making the choice of opting out. This policy does not apply to ACCESS, WIDA Screener, or school-selected assessments. 
  •  
  • Students may not be opted out of ACCESS or READ act testing as per state guidelines. 
  • The CogAt or Cognitive Abilities Test is given each year to all 2nd grade students.  New students may also be given the COGAT if their records do not include prior COGAT results. 
  • For details about our testing policy and all testing that is done at AXIS, please refer to our Assessment calendar on the School Calendar section of our website.  Parent input was used in writing and implementing this policy. 

Students checking out textbooks or library books accept the responsibility for their care. The student must pay for lost, stolen, or damaged books. AXIS will require the return of textbooks or library resources at the completion of any class or at the end of the school year.

Lost and replaced books: When students lose a textbook or library resource, it will be listed as lost and a fine added to our computer system. Students will be notified of the full replacement cost (plus 15% for shipping and handling). Once the fee is issued, students are responsible for the return of the book issued or payment of fees. A book turned in belonging to another student will be credited to the student to whom it was issued. Refunds will be given if lost books are found and returned within one calendar year and if the textbook is still in use.

Volunteers are an integral part of AXIS. We always appreciate any help from family, friends and community members who want to bring additional resources to the school. Research shows there are a number of benefits with parent and family involvement. When families are involved in their children’s education, grades and test scores go up, children become more likely to pass and attend better schools after high school, and they tend to have fewer discipline problems. AXIS provides a rich array of volunteer opportunities which address the educational needs of all students and support educational and school community needs. Community members are encouraged to volunteer and support learning to facilitate positive community involvement, partnership, and collaboration. 

 

We understand your time is precious and valuable. We are happy with whatever amount of time you can contribute. Volunteering doesn’t take a huge time commitment. As little as an hour or two a semester makes a big difference. Volunteer opportunities can include help during the school day in the classroom, at lunch/recess, or as a chaperone during filed trips. Additionally, there are summertime projects, at home projects, and performing arts productions available. 

 

All volunteers during the school day must report to the main office, sign in, and receive their visitor badge, and then report to the classroom or area where they will be volunteering. All volunteers/chaperones (including but not limited to drama or music activities, field trips, or other events) must arrive at the school’s front office during regular hours to complete the Raptor check prior to attending/chaperoning the event/activity. Volunteers and chaperones will also be subject to a background check. Volunteers should log their hours at the main office.  

 

*Please note, siblings are not allowed to accompany parents in the classroom or on field trips. 

For more information on volunteering at AXIS, visit the Volunteer section of our website.

With the exception of service animals, therapy animals, and classroom pets, no animals and pets are allowed on campus.

AXIS does not allow tobacco, firearms, explosives, or any derivative thereof, to be on campus, in a school vehicle, parking lots, or sites leased by the school at any time.

By state law, public school officials and employees are required to report child abuse and neglect, or circumstances or conditions that threaten the health and welfare of a child, to Social Services and/or to the local law enforcement agency. Such duty is triggered when a public school official or employee has a reasonable cause to know or suspect a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect, or when the public school official or employee has observed a child being subjected to circumstances or conditions which would reasonably result in abuse or neglect.

The relationship between staff members and students should be one of cooperation, understanding, and mutual respect. Staff members have a responsibility to provide an atmosphere conducive to learning and to motivate students to perform to their capacity.

Staff members shall extend the same respect and courtesy to students which they as staff members have a right to receive in return. Any staff member who violates school policy regarding nondiscrimination, corporal punishment, sexual harassment, use of profanity, or other policies which protect students’ rights to be free from intimidation, harassment, or physical harm, by engaging in conduct that directly or indirectly causes intimidation, harassment, or physical harm to a student, shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Staff members as well as students and others are expected to report any incident of intimidation, bullying, harassment, or physical harm of students to an administrator.

The information below includes brief information about key components of our Educational Program. For more details, please view the Elementary School Program section of our website. 

Language Immersion:
AXIS implements a 50/50 language immersion model, known as the Utah Model, used in over 240 public schools in Utah. Half of the student’s day is taught in English and the other half is taught in the child’s partner language: Spanish, Chinese, or French. 

Core Knowledge:
AXIS International Academy is a Core Knowledge school, as we implement the Core Knowledge Scope and Sequence and work to implement the key strategies recommended by the Core Knowledge Foundation. Core Knowledge is a content-rich curricula that spans across preschool through 8th grade and across all subject areas: literacy, writing, literature, social studies, science, math, art, and music. This scope and sequence provides a strong foundation of knowledge of the world and these subjects for all children.

Literacy and Language Arts:
In English, reading and writing are taught to our students through the content-rich Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) curriculum. Literature, social studies and science are integrated into the CKLA program. CKLA also teaches cursive, and handwriting is taught in the lower grades through Handwriting Without Tears. Each partner language also has an evidence-based language arts program. 

MTSS Multi-Tiered System of Supports:
AXIS implements a MTSS process. This is an evidence-based problem solving process. AXIS sets benchmarks across all academic and behavioral areas, and these benchmarks are assessed on a regular basis. If students are falling below benchmark consistently and basic supports are not boosting the student’s performance, then a child’s MTSS team will be formed. This MTSS is different from student to student based on the student’s needs, but often will include the parents/guardians, the student’s teachers, the Head of School, and possibly the Student Services Specialist or other specialists. This team may put an intervention plan in place to set goals and strategies to help the student reach benchmarks. The supports provided increase in intensity based on the student’s need or response to the intervention(s).

English Learners:
Students who come from homes where English is not the primary language, dual-language homes, or students who have recently immigrated to the United States are assessed within the first 30 days at school to determine their English Language proficiency level. This assessment provides teachers and parents with information about what English language skills the student may need more instruction in. AXIS’s English Language program follows the World-Class Instruction Design and Assessment (WIDA) standards that the Colorado Board of Education has adopted as the Colorado English Language Proficiency (CELP) standards.

Services for Students with Disabilities: 
Students with disabilities are afforded certain rights including those described in the following notifications regarding “Section 504” and Special Education via Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Parents or guardians who believe their child may have a disability requiring special accommodations or support services may contact the front office for more information about assessment and eligibility for such services.

Gifted and Talented: 
Gifted and Talented students are those whose abilities, talents, and potential for accomplishment are so exceptional or developmentally advanced they require special provisions to meet their educational needs. Gifted and Talented students are capable of high performance, exceptional production, and exhibit exceptional learning behaviors.

In order to provide the best possible educational opportunities to gifted children, AXIS and the Charter School Institute advocate a variety of best practices including enrichment in both English and the child’s partner language, ability grouping, differentiation, and guided independent study. Each instructional strategy is designed to promote the goal of developing students who are competent, creative, ethical, healthy, productive, successful, thoughtful, and good citizens.

AXIS and the Charter School Institute use a multiple criteria approach to determine which students may need gifted programming. A universal screening tool is provided at second grade to identify students to participate in further cognitive abilities testing. As well as a screening tool, a body of evidence is collected over time that includes, but is not limited to, cognitive testing, behavioral checklists, classroom performance, and achievement scores. The primary testing instrument used is the Naglieri Nonverbal Achievement Test-3rd edition (NNAT-3). Once a student has been identified, accommodations, goal setting, and other one-on-one check-ins with the student occur on a yearly basis.

Home School Enrichment Program: 
AXIS recognizes the importance of choice in school, and home schooling is another option some families choose. AXIS offers a full day of language immersion, 8:00am-3:10pm, each week in the student’s choice of partner language: Chinese, French, or Spanish. Language-learning research supports immersion as the best model for learning a second language. In an immersion classroom, the use of English is only used in cases of safety. Immersion teachers speak the partner language only and use visuals, physical response, movement, songs, games, and many other strategies to engage students in language learning. For more information on our Home School Enrichment Program, please visit the Home School Enrichment section of our website. 

CHARTER SCHOOL INSTITUTE (CSI)
The Colorado Charter School Institute is the authorizing body that supervises AXIS. CSI performs all the regulatory and oversight functions of a school district for AXIS and its other charter schools. The relationship between CSI and AIXS is governed by a charter school contract. Because AXIS is authorized by CSI, the school is not authorized, supervised or otherwise connected to Poudre or Thompson School District.
CSI can be contacted at: Colorado Charter School Institute 1600 Broadway, Suite 1250, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 866-3299

AXIS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
AXIS is a non-profit corporation established under Colorado law.  It is governed by its Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring the school meets its legal and regulatory obligations while faithfully pursuing its mission. The Board of Directors employs, supervises and provides policy-level guidance to the Head of School. The Board of Directors meets regularly every month and welcomes the public to observe its meetings and to provide comments and information. The schedule and contact information for the Board of Directors can be found on the Board of Directors section of the school website.

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
The Head of School is responsible for all operations and programming of the school and is responsible for relationships and communications with parents and the school community. The Head of School manages the academic program as well as the hiring and supervising of all staff. The Finance and Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, finances and regulatory compliance. The Student Services Coordinator is responsible for all student services, including coordinated special education services and accommodations.  The School Health and Office Assistant is the main contact for families and the public who wish to contact the school. 

AXIS International Academy (AXIS) believes that, as adults, we must model healthy and respectful communication for our students. AXIS is committed to promoting healthy communication among students, parents, teachers, and administrators, and encourages AXIS community members to express any concerns directly with the individual involved so that the school’s focus can be kept on student learning. In the interest of promoting the efficient resolution of grievances, the procedures below set forth the process for resolving conflicts and settling differences. This process is designed to support prompt and equitable resolution of disagreements at the lowest possible faculty or administrative level. AXIS and the grievant will agree to keep the details of the grievance confidential where possible.  

To read our Grievance Policy, you can find it on the Policies and Procedures section of our website. 

AXIS International Academy is a State Institute Charter School and is open free of charge to any child who resides in the state of Colorado, meets minimum age requirements set forth by state law and school policy, and has not been expelled from a school in the preceding 12 months. Kindergarten students must meet a minimum age of 5 years by October 1 of the school year in which they will enroll. Students are eligible for first grade if they are a minimum age of 6 years by October 11 of the school year in which they will enroll. AXIS may approve enrollment of students eligible for Early Access in accordance with state law, please see AXIS Early Access Policy for more information. Full-day kindergarten is state funded and free of charge.

View the Enrollment section of our website for our Enrollment Policy and Student Registration information.

Parents of students with a current Individual Education Plan (IEP) should consult with the AXIS administration to determine the suitability of AXIS’s program to the student’s needs. For educational programming details please see the Elementary Program page of our website. 

On the student’s last day at AXIS, the parent/guardian MUST go to the front office to complete the withdrawal form. Parents/guardians are not allowed to clean out student’s desks during instructional hours (8:00am-3:10pm). This is to avoid any disruptions to the learning environment. The parent/guardian must complete the top section of the withdrawal form which includes the reason for withdrawal and the name of the school to which the student is transferring. If this form is not filled out, the student will not be withdrawn and will be counted as absent until received. If we do not receive a Records Request or a Confirmation of Enrollment from the next school, your student will be coded to the state as a drop-out.
When completing the withdrawal form, parents will need to work with the AXIS School Health and Office Assistant to insure all materials have been returned and outstanding balances (student fees, cafeteria balances, etc) have been paid.

There may be times during the school year when different media groups (newspapers, television, university, school production class, school public relations, etc.) will cover activities at AXIS with articles, video, or still-photography that may be published. In addition, AXIS may want to include school-oriented articles, video, or photography on our own website and social media pages.

If parents DO NOT want their child(ren) to be photographed or videotaped for news media or school publicity purposes, please request an “opt-out media form” from the school office. Complete the form and return it to the office at your convenience, and AXIS will have a record of your wishes, valid for the current school year only. AXIS will make every reasonable effort to identify the primary subjects in photographs and to not publish photos containing students on the opt-out list. This policy relates to classroom activities or school events that are not already open to the public. Events and activities which are open to the public are not covered by this “opt-out” option.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE 

AXIS values the time spent in the classroom engaging in learning experiences. In order to fully benefit from classroom instruction, regular attendance is critical to a full and complete educational experience. Any absence impairs the student’s ability to fully learn the content presented in the classroom. 

View the Student Attendance Policy under Policies and Procedures section of our website.  

 

ATTENDANCE  

Colorado law (22-33-104 C.R.S.) regarding compulsory attendance requires students to attend school from the age of 6 until their 17th birthday. Please be aware that the school partners closely with local juvenile courts to intervene in the cases of students whose poor attendance constitutes “habitual truancy,” defined by Colorado law as having four (4) or more unexcused absences in a month or ten (10) or more unexcused absences during any calendar year period. To view AXIS’ Attendance Policy, click here.  
 

 

PARENT/GUARDIAN NOTIFICATION OF ABSENCES  

Parents/guardians must notify the Front Office if their student will be absent for any reason within 24 hours of the absence. Please call 970- 658-4570 for a 24-hour answering machine, or email 

a ttendance@AXIScolorado.org to notify the office. 

  

The Administrative Assistant takes many steps to notify parents of absences. The most common form is a phone call. We encourage parents to use their cell phones (if possible) as the primary contact number for these messages. A letter may be sent via mail if a student has multiple absences. Please contact the student’s teacher on his/her plan to complete any missed assignments. 

Exempt Absences: 

  • Suspensions (in school or out of school) 
  • School activity (field trip, school athletic participation, etc.) 
  • Court mandated appointments or appearances 

Excused Absences (with proper documentation): 

  • A student who is temporarily ill or injured (including medical appointments) 
  • A student whose absence is approved by the administration 
  • A student who is absent for an extended period due to physical, mental, or emotional disability 

Unexcused Absences: 

  • Any absence not listed in the above Exempt or Excused Absences categories 
  • Unexcused absences may be dealt with as a disciplinary issue 

EXCESSIVE ABSENCES  

Student attendance is essential for AXIS staff and students to reach our school’s goals and strive for our mission. Attendance is monitored closely through our MTSS process. It is imperative that parents/guardians immediately communicate absences with the school before each absence, and any extenuating circumstances should be shared with AXIS administration. Extenuating circumstances include, but are not limited to, a hospitalization, a death in the family, a family emergency, a serious family illness, or a religious obligation. 

 

If at any point attendance is causing concern for the child’s safety or negatively impacting the child’s ability to learn and/or reach behavior expectations, an attendance intervention meeting will be scheduled. This meeting will include the child’s parents/guardians, the child’s teachers, the Head of School, and may include the Student Services Specialist or others as applicable. This group of individuals is called the child’s MTSS team, and this team may decide to create an attendance intervention plan for the child. As part of this process and plan, this team will consider extenuating circumstances, student academic and behavior information, student health and needs, teacher recommendations, and other pertinent information. Retention may be considered as part of this plan, which means the student may not be able to promote to the next grade level and will repeat the current grade level. 

  

An attendance intervention meeting will automatically be considered for any student who misses ten (10) or more absences in any attendance period, excused or unexcused unless there is clear extenuating circumstances communicated to AXIS teachers or administration at the time of the absence(s). The decisions reached as part of the child’s MTSS team attendance intervention plan is considered final. 

HABITUALLY TRUANT STUDENTS  

According to the Colorado Law, students will be considered habitually truant when they have reached four (4) unexcused absences in one month or ten (10) unexcused absences in one school year. For the purpose of this provision, four individual unexcused instructional periods will equal one (1) unexcused school day. As detailed above, if at any point attendance is causing concern for the child’s safety or negatively impacting the child’s ability to learn and/or reach behavior expectations, an attendance intervention meeting will be scheduled. 

  

Habitually truant students may be referred by the child’s MTSS team to the appropriate Judicial District Juvenile Court to enforce compulsory attendance under the same state law (C.R.S. 22-33-101, et. seq.). 

MISSED ASSIGNMENTS AND MAKE-UP WORK  

When a child has an excused absence from class(es), he/she is given two (2) school days for each day absent in which to make up work. Students and parents must make arrangements with their teachers to make up assignments and tests. When a student has missed work due to an unexcused absence, make up assignments and/or tests are at the discretion of the teacher(s). 

  

When students suffer a serious illness causing them to be absent more than five (5) consecutive days, additional communication should be made with AXIS administration. Communication with teachers and administrators must be maintained during this time or the student risks failing grades, retention, or withdrawal. 

  

Suspended students are responsible for making up work missed on the day(s) of the suspension. If students receive work to be completed during their suspension, they must submit their work to their teachers the day they return to school to get full credit for their work. If students receive missed work the day they return from their suspension, they will be allowed one (1) additional day to complete the work. If they missed an assessment during the suspension, they will be required to take the assessment the first day back from the suspension. 

TARDIES AND OTHER LATE ARRIVALS  

The act of arriving late to class (tardy*) is detrimental to the educational process. It is important that all students be in their classroom at the beginning of class. Students who are tardy do not receive a proper presentation of the entire lesson prepared. Students’ late arrivals are a disruption for the late student and for all other students. In addition, repeated tardiness is disrespectful for the educational process and the teacher. Tardiness becomes an academic and behavior problem when students are habitually late regardless of whether it is the fault of the child or the parent. As discussed under the attendance policy, if at any point attendance, including tardiness, is causing concern for the child’s safety or negatively impacting the child’s ability to learn and/or reach behavior expectations, an attendance intervention meeting will be scheduled. 
 

*Tardy students arriving within 10 minutes after the morning bell should report directly to class. Students arriving more than 10 minutes late must get a late pass from Front Office. Students who are more than 10 minutes late will be marked as either an excused or unexcused partial absence. Four (4) partial absences will be considered the same as one (1) full absence. 

  

Being late to school during occasions of inclement weather and other unforeseen events will be handled at the discretion of school administration. School administration holds final discretion in regard to all tardy procedures. 

Parents/legal guardians are responsible for transportation of students to and from the school. Notice: Without prior authorization from a parent/legal guardian, students will not be released early during the day to anyone other than the parent or legal guardian. By default, a parent/legal guardian who resides with the student and a parent who resides at another address will be allowed to pick up the student.

Parents/legal guardians must be physically present to sign out their child(ren).* Office staff will retrieve the student from class when the parent/legal guardian arrives. Please plan enough time for student check out. In all cases, students will not be released without prior parent/legal guardian contact and approval.

In our continuing effort to ensure the safety of all students, students will only be released to parent(s)/legal guardian(s) prior to the end of the school day. If your child will be checked out before the end of the day by someone other than a parent/legal guardian, you must contact the Front Office in writing via email, fax, or hand-written note to allow other individuals (including but not limited to step-parents, older siblings, and grandparents) to pick up the child(ren) prior to the child(ren) being released.** If we have not heard from you in advance, we will attempt to contact you. If we are unable to contact you, the child will not be released and will remain at the school until the end of the day. If you would like to authorize other people to pick up your child(ren), please ensure that they are listed as emergency contacts in your Infinite Campus Parent Portal.

School personnel may excuse a pupil before the end of the school day upon request of the parent or legal guardian for reasons which include, but are not limited to, the following: doctor appointments, home crises, or other extenuating circumstances. If a parent or guardian picks their student up before the end of the day more than four (4) times for any reason, the student may receive a partial absence on the fifth (5th) early pick up. AXIS Administration reserves final discretion on all decisions regarding early student dismissals.

The AXIS Board of Directors supports the vision and mission of AXIS, which is to provide all students the opportunity to achieve the knowledge, skills, and languages necessary to become thriving citizens of character in our local and global communities. Students should have the opportunity to develop their skills, knowledge, and competencies in a nurturing and accountable school setting. Students should receive effective and engaging teaching, with differentiated curriculum, instruction, and assessment designed to address the needs of our diverse learners. Students have a right to attend schools that are safe and free from unnecessary disruption. The Board believes that proper student conduct, reinforced by an effective discipline program, is essential to create and maintain a positive school climate. This is the joint responsibility of students, staff, parents, and the community. 

To view our full Discipline Policy, please see the Policies and Procedures section of our website. 

At AXIS our School Health and Office Assistant (SHOA) works under the direction of a School Nurse consultant. The SHOA staffs the School Health Office and provides minor first aid to those students who become sick or injured while at school, administers prescribed medications, and maintains health records. Other designated staff may provide coverage in the health office when the school health assistant is not in the office. The School Nurse is a Registered Nurse (RN) and has a special School Nursing State credential. This School Nurse oversees the health office and staff providing care in the health office. AXIS utilizes a School Nurse Consultative model as the school nurse is onsite weekly.

REGISTERED NURSE
The Registered Nurse will train and provide supervision to the SHOA as well as additional consultation as needed. RN’s may only be in the building to provide specific health services mandated by the State of Colorado such as immunizations, special education assessments, IEP meetings, and in health education programs if appropriate. They coordinate the mandated yearly vision and hearing screenings, and they are available to teachers, parents, and students when there is a specific health concern that requires assistance and the development of a health care plan.

 

SCHOOL HEALTH AND OFFICE ASSISTANT (SHOA)
A Health Assistant will be in the building 8 hours each day and in the health office as needed. Health Assistants are not nurses. They have received training in: Basic First Aid, CPR, and Medication administration only. Trained school staff provides first aid and care to sick and injured students when the Health Assistant is not in the building.

Please visit the Health Office section of our website for important information including:

  • Health Inventory Form
  • Immunization information and requirements
  • Medical Marijuana
  • Prescription Medications
  • Student Illness
  • Student Health Plans and Emergency Action Plans

AXIS is committed to promoting good nutrition and physical activities. Information about free or reduced price meals, costs of meals, a la carte food offerings, and student meal charge accounts is available at the front office. Information can also be found on the school’s website under the Nutrition link.

Schools, along with parents, can play a major role in reducing the number of overweight and obese children and youth. Schools are a place where students can gain the knowledge, motivation, and skills needed for lifelong physical activity and lifelong healthy eating habits and are also a place for students to practice these habits.

AXIS Wellness Policy
Under Federal and State law, each Charter School Institute Food Authority school participating in federal Child Nutrition Programs is required to adopt this policy including the items outlined herein. The Charter School Institute Food Authority will work with schools to develop, implement, monitor, review, and as necessary, revise the Wellness Policy. The main nutrition contact, or other designee, at each school participating in Child Nutrition programs shall coordinate and monitor the implementation of this policy at his/her school, including completion of a bi-annual policy assessment. The Charter School Food Authority will establish and maintain a Wellness Committee to monitor the implementation of this policy, evaluate progress on policy goals, serve as a resource to schools, and recommend revisions to this policy as deemed necessary and/or appropriate. Additionally, each Charter School Institute Food Authority school can adopt their own School Wellness Policy which shall not be less restrictive than the language included in this policy. You can read our Wellness Policy under the Policies and Procedures section of the website. 

 

FREE OR REDUCED-PRICE LUNCH PROGRAM
AXIS offers free or reduced-priced meals to qualifying students. Applications are available on the website under the “Parents -> Nutrition” link. You may also request a paper copy by emailing info@AXIScolorado.org, or stopping by the front office. All students, new and returning, must fill out a new application for free or reduced-price meals each school year and ideally before the first day of school.
Applications do not carry over from prior years. Applications completed for students in other schools are not eligible for the AXIS program.

LAW ENFORCEMENT:
AXIS works cooperatively with law enforcement agencies throughout the Fort Collins area. Law enforcement should be notified by administrators in school-related situations that involve suspected criminal violations or any time school safety may be at risk. Law enforcement officers will act consistent with their agency’s guidelines in responding to referrals or otherwise becoming involved in school matters.

SOCIAL SERVICE PROCESS:
In the event, that law enforcement or social services arrives at the office of AXIS requesting to interview one of our students without a parent/guardian present, the following process will be followed:

  • The receptionist or front office personnel will contact the Head of School to explain the circumstances for their
  • Then, if the agency has convinced administration why the meeting should remain confidential and has just cause to interview the student without notifying the parent/guardian, we will locate a private meeting space with the
  • If there is no cause, a member of administration will notify the parent/guardian of the situation immediately.


HOMELESS STUDENT NOTIFICATION:
Specific rights and protections are ensured to parents, children, and youth experiencing homelessness as defined under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. If you are experiencing homelessness please contact Melissa Schramm (mschramm@axiscolorado.org) for resources and support.

AXIS prohibits harassment of any type on any person in our school community. If you believe that you, your child or someone else in our school community has been subject to harassment, please contact the Head of School or another school representative as soon as possible so that the matter can be investigated. AXIS expects that all persons associated with the school will act and behave in a professional, courteous and respectful manner. Violations of this standard will be investigated and addressed with appropriate discipline.

 

AXIS is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination/harassment in relation to race or color, sex, religion or creed, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, and disability. School policies, programs and activities should foster a climate of inclusiveness in which all individuals have the opportunity to participate, to be heard, and to be acknowledged for their dignity and worth and for their unique role in the pluralistic nature of our society. Students and staff who feel safe and welcome are more likely to perform more effectively.

 

Any student who believes that s/he has been harassed, or who witnesses conduct that might constitute harassment, shall promptly report the conduct to an administrator or staff member. A complaint or report may be made either orally or in writing.

 

All reports of discrimination or harassment will be investigated. Consequences where warranted may include but are not limited to a range of disciplinary action, which may include expulsion from school if warranted. Depending on age and circumstances, educational interventions, rather than, or in addition to, discipline shall be appropriate. Support resources will also be provided to victims of school-related discrimination or harassment as appropriate.

 

Anyone who retaliates against a person who reports harassment, regardless of the outcome of the harassment investigation, will be subject to disciplinary action. Any person who knowingly makes a false report of harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action as well.

 

Additional information regarding the administrative procedures for compliance with Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504 and/or The Americans with Disabilities Act is available online or by reviewing the policy and procedures in their entirety as explained on the first page of this publication. In addition to, or as an alternative to, filing a harassment complaint pursuant to this policy, a person may file a harassment complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights or the Colorado Civil Rights Commission.

Colorado Civil Rights Commission 1560 Broadway, Suite 1050 – Denver 303-894-7830

U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310 – Denver 303-844-

5695 Email: ocr.denver@ed.gov

Colorado Revised Statute 22-1-124 instructs school districts to notify parents of their right to request information concerning registered sex offenders in the community. More information on accessing such information may be obtained online at either of the following:

h ttp://dcj.state.co.us/odvsom/Sex_Offender/SO_Pdfs/schoolresourceguideregistration.pdf     OR h ttp://www.cde.state.co.us/cdeprevention/download/pdf/School_Sex_Offender_Guide.pdf

Video surveillance may be utilized in our school, on school property, and on transportation provided by the school. Many cameras are equipped with audio recording capabilities as well. Such monitoring may assist in deterring misbehavior and may provide evidence to be presented in student discipline hearings, court proceedings, and similar venues. Recordings may be used in student discipline investigations and as evidence in school discipline matters including suspension or expulsion cases. Recordings may also be used to prosecute crimes against property, students, or staff. Recordings will be made available as appropriate to school administration and law enforcement, or as otherwise may be required for disclosure by subpoena.

Students will not be notified when a recording device has been installed or is being utilized in a specific vehicle or building. Students should proceed with the assumption that their conduct and comments in public places (e.g., school hallways, buses, etc.) may be recorded by video and audio devices.

Parents or guardians who wish to view a videotape or listen to a recording may submit a written request to the Head of School for tapes concerning school facilities and property.

Consistent with the school’s obligation to provide a safe and secure environment, state laws prohibit students being in possession of any dangerous weapon or dangerous item at school, during school activities, or on any school property.

Knives or other instruments with sharpened blades or edges that might easily be used as a weapon are not permitted at school, regardless of the length of the blade. Exceptions include scissors and other sharpened instruments commonly used during supervised educational activities.

In addition, it is a violation for any pupil, staff member, volunteer, or visitor to possess a firearm, explosive device, knife with a blade longer than three (3) inches, or other dangerous weapon when in a school facility; on school grounds; at any or school activity, regardless of location; or on any school vehicle. This restriction does not apply to School Resource Officers or other law enforcement officers who are legally required to carry a weapon to perform their job.

Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act is a nondiscrimination statute barring discrimination on the basis of one’s disability. Parents are entitled to have the opportunity to review relevant educational records under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Parents or guardians disagreeing with the decisions reached by school personnel for accommodations necessary for access to educational programming and/or facilities may request a hearing before an impartial hearing officer by notifying the Head of School.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 guarantees basic rights and provides the framework for special education services. Every student between the ages of 3 and 21 with a disability is assured a public education at no cost to the parent. The public education is to be appropriate to the needs of the student. In addition, students with disabilities must be educated in the least restrictive environment.

Schools/districts are required by Colorado law to adopt policies regarding gang-related activities in school. The school defines a gang, secret society, or disruptive group as a group of three or more individuals, whether formal or informal, sharing a common name, interest, bond, confederation, alliance, initiation practice, network, conspiracy, or activity characterized by criminal or delinquent conduct, whose members individually or collectively engages in or has engaged in a pattern of such activity.

 

Wearing, displaying, or possessing items that signify identification with disruptive groups is prohibited on school campuses, at all school-sponsored activities, on all school transportation. Any evidence reasonably demonstrating the existence of or membership in any disruptive group shall be admissible in any disciplinary action or proceeding brought by the school.

Bullying is defined by state law, as any written or verbal expression, or physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, intended to cause distress upon one or more students.

 

Bullying based upon a student’s race, gender, religion or creed, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability may actually constitute harassment.

 

All administrators, teachers, classified staff, parents, and students shall take all reasonable steps to prevent and/or address bullying.

  • Students who have been bullied should report the situation to the teacher and AXIS administration.
  • Students who witness bullying should report it to a staff
  • School staff who witness bullying should take action to stop the bullying and to report the situation for appropriate administrative
  • School administrators should promptly investigate and respond to bullying

 

Students who bully others will be subject to disciplinary action as described in our discipline policy. In addition to discipline sanctions, schools may implement intervention strategies as appropriate.

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act enacted in 1986 mandates that the US Environmental Protection Agency make rules regarding asbestos hazards in schools available for review.

AXIS’s facility located at 2130 W. Horsetooth Road, Fort Collins, CO 80526 was constructed in 2014 and opened in August of 2014. To the best of our knowledge, no asbestos containing materials were designed for, nor specified, nor installed in the construction of the new school.

 

State law requires that an asbestos management plan must be in place and be made available for public review, even though no asbestos containing materials were used when the school was constructed. The law further requires that the school community be made aware of the plan on an annual basis.

 

This letter is the official notification that such a plan is in place and available for review in the office of the Business Manager above referenced address.

As a parent of a student at AXIS, you have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teacher who instructs your child. This is a requirement for all districts that receive Title I funds. Federal law allows you to request certain information about your student’s classroom teacher.

The law also requires the school to give you this information in a timely manner upon request. Listed below is the information about which you have the right to ask for regarding each of your student’s classroom teachers.

  • Whether the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) has licensed or endorsed your student’s teacher for the grades and subjects taught
  • Whether CDE has decided that your student’s teacher can teach in a classroom without being licensed or qualified under state regulations because of special circumstances
  • The teacher’s college major; whether the teacher has any advanced degrees, and, if so, the subject of the degrees
  • Whether any teachers’ aides or similar paraeducators provide services to your child and, if they do, their qualifications

Please contact Jenny Whitaker at jwhitaker@AXIScolorado.org if you would like to receive any of this information.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records.  These rights are: 

  1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days after the day AXIS receives a request for access. 
     
    Parents or eligible students who wish to inspect their child’s or their education records should submit to the Head of School a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect.  The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. 
     
  1. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. 
     
    Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend their child’s or their education record should write the Head of School, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed.  If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. 
     
  1. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without con­sent. 
     
    One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  The criteria for determining who constitutes a school official and what constitutes a legitimate educational interest must be set forth in the school’s or school district’s annual notification for FERPA rights.  A school official typically includes a person employed by the school or school district as an ad­ministrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board.  A school official also may include a volunteer,  contractor, or consultant who, while not employed by the school, performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, audi­tor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.  A school official typically has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educa­tion record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. 
     
    Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school or school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.   
     
  1. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by AXIS to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are: 

Family Policy Compliance Office 
U.S. Department of Education 
400 Maryland Avenue, SW 
Washington, DC  20202 

 
FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the parent or eligible student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in § 99.31 of the FERPA regulations.  Except for disclosures to school officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the parent or eligible student, § 99.32 of the FERPA regulations requires the school to record the disclosure.  Parents and eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record of disclosures.  A school may disclose PII from the education records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents or the eligible student – 

  • To other school officials, including teachers, within the educational agency or institution whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests.  This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that the conditions listed in § 99.31(a)(1)(i)(B)(1) - (a)(1)(i)(B)(3) are met. (§ 99.31(a)(1)) 
  • To officials of another school, school system, or institution of postsecondary education where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the requirements of § 99.34.  (§ 99.31(a)(2)) 
  • To authorized representatives of the U. S. Comptroller General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as the State educational agency (SEA) in the parent or eligible student’s State.  Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of § 99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal- or State-supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs.  These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf, if applicable requirements are met.  (§§ 99.31(a)(3) and 99.35) 
  • In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary for such purposes as to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid.  (§ 99.31(a)(4)) 
  • To State and local officials or authorities to whom information is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed by a State statute that concerns the juvenile justice system and the system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records were released, subject to § 99.38.  (§ 99.31(a)(5)) 
  • To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to:  (a)  develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b)  administer student aid programs; or (c)  improve instruction, if applicable requirements are met.  (§ 99.31(a)(6)) 
  • To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.  (§ 99.31(a)(7)) 
  • To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes.  (§ 99.31(a)(8)) 
  • To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena if applicable requirements are met.  (§ 99.31(a)(9)) 
  • To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to § 99.36.  (§ 99.31(a)(10) 
  • Information the school has designated as “directory information” if applicable requirements under § 99.37 are met.  (§ 99.31(a)(11)) 
  • To an agency caseworker or other representative of a State or local child welfare agency or tribal organization who is authorized to access a student’s case plan when such agency or organization is legally responsible, in accordance with State or tribal law, for the care and protection of the student in foster care placement.  (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(L)) 
  • To the Secretary of Agriculture or authorized representatives of the Food and Nutrition Service for purposes of conducting program monitoring,  evaluations, and performance measurements of programs authorized under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, under certain conditions.  (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(K)) 

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY Act (FERPA) NOTICE FOR DIRECTORY INFORMATION 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that AXIS International Academy, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records.  However, AXIS may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised AXIS to the contrary in accordance with AXIS procedures.  The primary purpose of directory information is to allow AXIS to include information from your child’s education records in certain school publications.  Examples include: 

  • A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production; 
  • The annual yearbook; 
  • Honor roll or other recognition lists; 
  • Graduation programs; and 
  • Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members. 
  • Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent.  Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks.  In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.   
  • If you do not want AXIS to disclose any or all of the types of information designated below as directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify AXIS in writing by October 1st of each year. AXIS has designated the following information as directory information: 
  • Student's name 
  • Address 
  • Telephone listing 
  • Electronic mail address 
  • Photograph 
  • Date and place of birth 
  • Dates of attendance 
  • Grade level 
  • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports 
  • Degrees, honors, and awards received 
  • The most recent educational agency or institution attended 
  • Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems but only if the identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user’s identity, such as a PIN, password, or other factor known or possessed only by the authorized user 
  • A student ID number or other unique personal identifier that is displayed on a student ID badge, but only if the identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user's identity, such as a PIN, password, or other factor known or possessed only by the authorized user. 

The Internet, a global computer network referred to as the World Wide Web, and electronic communications (e-mail, chat rooms, and other forms of electronic communication) have vast potential to support curriculum and student learning. AXIS believes they should be used in schools as a learning resource to educate and to inform.

Use of the Internet and electronic communications require students to think critically, analyze information, write clearly, use problem-solving skills, and home computer and research skills that employers demand. Use of these tools can encourage an attitude of lifelong learning and offer an opportunity for students to participate in distance learning activities, ask questions of and consult with experts, communicate with other students and individuals, and locate material to meet educational and personal information needs.

AXIS believes the educational opportunities inherent in these tools far outweigh the possibility that users may procure material not consistent with the education goals of the school. However, the Internet and electronic communications are fluid environments in which students may access materials and information from many sources including some that may be harmful to students.

AXIS acknowledges that while it is impossible to predict with certainty what information students might locate or come into contact with, it desires to take all reasonable steps to protect students from accessing material and information that is obscene, child pornography, or otherwise harmful to minors, as defined by the school. Students shall take responsibility for their own use of school computers and computer systems to avoid contact with material or information that may be harmful to minors.

Internet Blocking or Filtering

Services/products that block or filter material and information that is or contains offensive language, sex/pornography, racism, drugs, or violence, as defined by AXIS, are installed on all school computers having Internet or electronic communications access. Students shall report access to material and information that is or contains offensive language, inappropriate sexual content, racism, drugs, or violence, or is otherwise in violation of this policy to the supervising staff member. If a student becomes aware of other students accessing such material or information, he or she shall report it to the supervising staff member.

No Expectation of Privacy

AXIS computers and computer systems are owned by AXIS and are intended for educational purposes at all times. Students shall have no expectation of privacy when using the Internet or electronic communications. The school reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review, and store at any time


and without prior notice, all usage of AXIS computers and computer systems, including all Internet and electronic communications access and transmission/receipt of materials and information. All material and information accessed/received through computers and computer systems shall remain the property of AXIS.

Unauthorized and Unacceptable Uses

Students shall use AXIS computers and computer systems in a responsible, efficient, ethical, and legal manner. Because technology and ways of using technology are constantly evolving, every unacceptable use of AXIS computers and computers systems cannot be specifically described in policy. Therefore, examples of unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to, the following:

No student shall access, create, transmit, retransmit or forward material or information:

  • That promotes violence or advocates destruction of property including, but not limited to, access to information concerning the manufacturing or purchasing of destructive devices or weapons
  • That is not related to AXIS education objectives
  • That contains pornographic, obscene, or other sexually oriented
  • That harasses, threatens, demeans, or promotes violence or hatred against another person or group of persons with regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability, or handicap
  • For personal profit, financial gain, advertising, commercial transaction, or political purposes
  • That plagiarizes the work of another without express consent
  • That uses inappropriate or profane language likely to be offensive to others in the school community
  • That is knowingly false or could be construed as intending to purposely damage another person's reputation
  • In violation of any federal or state law, including but not limited to copyrighted material and material protected by trade secret
  • That contains personal information about themselves or others, including information protected by confidentiality laws
  • Using another individual’s Internet or electronic communications account without written permission from that individual
  • That impersonates another or transmits through an anonymous
  • That accesses fee services without specific permission from the system administrator

 

Security

Security on AXIS computer systems is a high priority. Students who identify a security problem while using the Internet or electronic communications must immediately notify a system administrator.

Students should not demonstrate the problem to other users. Logging on to the Internet or electronic communications as a system administrator is prohibited. Students shall not:

  1. Use another person's password or any other
  2. Gain or attempt to gain unauthorized access to district computers or computers
  3. Read, alter, delete, copy, or attempt to do so, electronic communications of other system users.

Any user identified as a security risk, or as having a history of problems with other computer systems, may be denied access to the Internet and electronic devices communications.

Safety

Students shall not reveal personal information, such as home address or phone number, while using the Internet or electronic communications. Without first obtaining permission of the supervising staff member, students shall not use their last name or any other information that might allow another person to locate him or her. Students shall not arrange face-to-face meetings with persons met on the Internet or through electronic communications.


Vandalism

Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and may result in school disciplinary action and/or legal action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious or intentional attempt to harm, destroy, modify, abuse, or disrupt operation of any network within the school district or any network connected to the Internet, operation of any form of electronic communications, the data contained on any network or electronic communications, the data of another user, usage by another user, or AXIS-owned software or hardware. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses and the use of encryption software.

Unauthorized Software

Students are prohibited from using or possessing any software that has been downloaded or is otherwise in the user's possession without appropriate registration and payment of any fees owed to the software owner.

Assigning Student Projects and Monitoring Student Use

AXIS will make every effort to see that the Internet and electronic communications are used responsibly by students. Administrators, teachers, and staff have a professional responsibility to work together to monitor students' use of the Internet and electronic communications, help students develop the intellectual skills needed to discriminate among information sources, to identify information appropriate to their age and developmental levels, and to evaluate and use information to meet their educational goals.

Students shall have specifically defined objectives and search strategies prior to accessing material and information on the Internet and through electronic communications. Opportunities shall be made available on a regular basis for parents to observe student use of the Internet and electronic communications in schools.

Student Use is a Privilege

Use of the Internet and electronic communications demands personal responsibility and an understanding of the acceptable and unacceptable uses of such tools. Student use of the Internet and electronic communications is a privilege, not a right. Failure to follow the use procedures contained in this policy will result in the loss of the privilege to use these tools and may result in school disciplinary action and/or legal action. The school may deny, revoke, or suspend access to technology or close accounts at any time.

AXIS establishes a safe environment that provides nurturing structure. This is one of the four educational priorities listed in our mission, as our S is “Social, emotional, and cognitive skills development” and this includes appropriate skills and character traits. Research tells us these traits are malleable and can be taught. They are also critical for the child’s current and future success. AXIS strives to provide a nurturing and structured environment while developing appropriate skills, attitudes, and personal responsibility.

Each parent/guardian, teacher, and child must take an active role in supporting this plan. Parents/ guardians and school staff must work together to create the proper learning environment and to set an example with positive actions and behaviors in order for students to learn to become global citizens of character operating with respect, responsibility, honesty, integrity, a positive growth mindset, and perseverance.

AXIS implements what is known as Schoolwide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports or PBIS. PBIS is well-supported by the research as the best behavior programming for children. In our PBIS system we set clear, value-aligned expectations for student behavior in all areas of the school: classrooms, hallways, bathrooms, yard, cafeteria, buses, and any other common area. The expectations are consistent teacher to teacher and classroom to classroom, which makes it more comprehensible for all children. The language or vocabulary of the expectations may vary dependent on the grade-level of the children. For more details about our PBIS system please visit the Educational Program section of our website.

CLASSROOM PARTIES

Parties and holiday observances will be held at the teacher’s discretion. Parents must notify the teacher in advance if they prefer their child to not participate in a particular holiday observance or party. Any food brought into the school should be store bought.

AXIS sets goals for students across three primary areas: the Colorado Academic Standards, Core Knowledge Content Scope and Sequence, and Partner Language acquisition/growth. All lessons, assignments, and student work in class and at home are designed to target student growth and mastery of objectives and goals across these three areas. AXIS uses a standards-based progress report to assess and report student growth and mastery of the Colorado Academic Standards. AXIS also shares formative assessment results from mastery of the Core Knowledge content in English and the student’s Partner Language. Partner Language growth (acquisition) is assessed each trimester using the AXIS Proficiency Targets and Reports, which are based on the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). Progress reports are shared each trimester.

Graded Assignments

  • All graded assignments directly relate to the Colorado Academic Standards, Math In Focus/Singapore Math, Core Knowledge, or Partner Language
  • Individual grades will be given for group work rather than an overall group grade. Students will be graded relative to published standards and not in comparison to each
  • Daily work (in-class practice assignments, discussions, and other forms of descriptive feedback to students about their learning, homework) is used to monitor student learning in progress and/or adjust teaching will not be factored into
  • Assessments will be used for grading purposes. Assessments take place after learning has occurred and may include, but are not limited to: unit tests, independent class work, and
  • Late or missing assignments will be marked as “incomplete” until the work is
  • The AXIS policy for make-up work is to give students two days for each day absent as time to make up work. If the student is too ill to stay current, even the stated amount of time may not be sufficient and may generate great stress for the student. Parents, students, and teachers will agree on mutually acceptable target dates for completion of work. If a student is indisposed up to and beyond a grading period, parents, teachers, and the Head of School will make arrangements for a fair opportunity to make up work.
  • Students must turn in work in a timely manner, because it benefits them in their achievement of learning goals. Chronic lateness of work will be dealt with as a behavioral problem — not a grade reduction — with a variety of remedies, including parental notification, a record of missed assignments, working in the classroom before and/or after school. The consequence for not doing the work is---doing the work!
  • In class assignments, homework, and assessments will be allowed to be re-done at the teacher’s request only. Corrective instruction or re-teaching must happen between the original assessment and the reassessment. Re-dos will be taken for full credit. Reassessments may completed at school, not at home, or at the teacher's
  • In addition to scheduled school-wide progress reports, parents will be notified when there is a marked or sudden change in a student’s performance or attitude.

The purpose for assigning homework is to give students the opportunity to extend lessons, practice needed skills, engage in critical thinking, and prepare for learning. Additionally, homework, as with anything sent home, is a form of communication from teachers to families. For homework to be effective, it should support educational goals, take into account students’ abilities and needs, and strengthen the school-home link. We also recommend reading at home nightly.

Your responsibility as parents is to provide daily time and the right environment for your child to complete homework. Offer assistance as needed without doing the homework for your child. It is also your responsibility to communicate with the teacher any problems that arise, any concepts your child is struggling with, or if the amount of time your child spends on homework exceeds the time allotments below. These times are approximate. Your individual student’s pace may need to be taken into consideration. Independent reading time is included in these times

Time Allotments

  • Kindergarten - up to 10 minutes per night
  • Grade 1 - up to 10 minutes per night
  • Grade 2 - up to 20 minutes per night
  • Grade 3 - up to 30 minutes per night
  • Grade 4 - up to 35 minutes per night
  • Grade 5 - up to 40 minutes per night

 The responsibility of the student is to make sure he/she knows what the homework is, bring the necessary materials home, complete assignments in a quality manner, and turn them in on time.

Homework Accountability

All homework is due at the beginning of the day on the due date. Assignment scores will be entered into Infinite Campus weekly (please check the Infinite Campus Parent Portal). Homework not turned in will be marked as “missing” until received. Missing Assignment Reports will be e-mailed home weekly so be sure your e-mail address is correct in Infinite Campus.

Students who do not turn in homework have the following choices:

  • Use a “Pass.” This is a freebie for your student; they do not need to make up the work. The Pass can be used for daily homework, not projects. The Pass is to be turned in the day the assignment is due. For Kindergarten – 2nd grades, the pass can be turned in up to 24 hours after the homework was due. We offer the “Pass” as a way of saying that we all need grace at times when life gets hectic as we all know it can sometimes!
  • Complete the homework and turn in to receive full credit and remove the “missing” marking in Infinite

In accordance with state law, AXIS may charge fees that are reasonably necessary for and reasonably related to the actual cost of textbooks or expendable supplies not provided free of charge.  These fees are adopted by the AXIS Board and reviewed annually.  

 

AXIS International Academy Student Fee Schedule (Full-time Students) 

Fee Type

Amount of Fee

Purpose of Fee

Participation

Voluntary/ Mandatory

Supply fee

$70 per student/ per year

Academic subscriptions and classroom supplies: online student accounts, copy paper, dry-

erase markers, sanitizer, tissues.

Materials are necessary for classroom

participation and instruction

Mandatory for students to receive the materials and

expendable items from the school.

Technology fee

$30 per student/ per year

Technology fee and student licenses include chromebook licenses, Microsoft apps and programs, consumables and print cartridges

IT supplies necessary for instruction.

Mandatory for students to receive the materials and expendable items from the school.

   

AXIS International Academy Student Fee Schedule (Part-time and Home School Students) 

Fee Type

Amount of Fee

Purpose of Fee

Participation

Voluntary/ Mandatory

Supply fee

$50 per student/

Academic and

Materials are

Mandatory for

 

per year

classroom supplies:

necessary for

students to receive

 

 

Including online subscriptions, copy paper, dry-

classroom

the materials and

 

 

erase markers,

participation and

expendable items

 

 

sanitizer, tissues.

instruction

from the school.

  

  

Sibling Discounts 

Sibling discounts are available for families with more than one student attending AXIS. After the first student fee is paid, any remaining siblings would receive a 20% discount on the total amount of their student fees.  

 

Exemptions from Student Fees: 
Students qualifying for free or reduced price lunch under the federal poverty income guidelines, including homeless and foster students, are eligible to receive waiver of all mandatory fees, fines and charges upon request.  Teachers and principals will make every effort to ensure that no student is denied the right to participate in field trips or other enrichment activities because of lack of funds. Students qualifying for a fee waiver shall receive it without unnecessary embarrassment or public exposure of their need. Families who believe they qualify for a fee waiver must contact the School Leader to make such request. 

Families who do not qualify for free or reduced lunch prices, but are experiencing financial hardship, may contact the School’s Social Justice committee to apply for a student fee scholarship or discounted rates.  

AXIS is committed to helping students achieve. As part of our MTSS process, the child’s MTSS team may consider a placement adjustment or retention. Placement adjustments are recommended by the end of first trimester or sooner to place the student closer to the student’s ability level. We believe that it is in the best interest of the student that placement adjustments are made quickly, rather than allowing students to struggle through the entire school year. Retention, or having a child repeat a grade, may also be considered if the MTSS team believes it is in the best interest of the child. Academic achievement is not the only factor considered in this decision, and the MTSS team will consider social emotional factors, behavioral factors, attendance, or other relevant factors as well.

Retention of students with IEPs must involve his/her staffing team: Student Services Specialist, the Head of School, teacher(s), parents, and other specialists.

Students are not allowed to bring any item that disrupts the learning environment. Electronic communication devices are only permissible after school and must be put away during the school day. Students found using cell phones or other electronic communication devices during school hours will have

the item confiscated. Once confiscated, only parents will be allowed to pick them up. Special permission must be given for students to use personal devices for learning during school hours. The school assumes no responsibility if personal items brought by the student are lost, stolen, or damaged.

All lost and found items of value will be turned in to the school office. Parents may ask at the reception desk regarding jewelry, glasses, phones, and other items of value. A clothing rack containing unclaimed articles is kept, and periodically unclaimed articles will be donated to local organizations. Check the newsletter for the dates Lost and Found articles will no longer be available.

Dress codes minimize distractions in schools. AXIS students are required to be in dress code during school hours, which includes specific clothing items of specific colors. On the playground and walking to and from the building any coat or jacket may be worn as necessary. Sweatshirts can be any brand and purchased at any store as long as they have no logos on them, and they match our colors, e.g. white, navy, gray and red. No hats or hoods can be worn. The point of the dress code is to minimize student distraction. If a child wears something that is found to be exceedingly distracting to others, s/he may be asked to kindly not wear the item in the future.

View more information on the Uniform Dress Code Section of our website. 

DRESS CODE ENFORCEMENT

All teachers and staff are required to enforce the dress code consistently and uniformly. Teachers and staff may refer students who are habitually non-compliant with the dress code to the elementary office.

CONSEQUENCES FOR DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS

  • 1st Offense: warning
  • 2nd Offense: warning
  • 3rd Offense: warning
  • 4th Offense: administration discretion
  • 5th Offense: administration discretion

 

SCHOOL DRESS CODE/UNIFORMS

Any accessory or clothing item that disrupts the educational process, therefore, is a violation of the uniform program.

  • School uniforms promote a positive learning
  • Uniforms reduce distractions and judgements based on
  • Uniforms are affordable and save families

 

Kindergarten – 5th grade students are required to be in a uniform during school hours. Uniforms can be purchased at any retailer (Target, Walmart, Land’s End, etc.), as long as they are in our school colors (white, red, gray and navy blue). All clothing must be plain without any brand names, insignia, manufacturers logos, pictures visible, etc. The approved uniform for all students is described below. A local monogram shop or Land’s End can monogram the AXIS logo onto the shirts, but it is NOT REQUIRED.

For more information on the READ Act, visit CDE's website here: https://www.cde.state.co.us/coloradoliteracy/generalinfo-parents