MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL
DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
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LAMAR LOUISE CURRY MIDDLE SCHOOL
15750 SW 47
TH
STREET, MIAMI, FL 33185
(305) 222-2775
Proudly Serving our Students
& Community
Monday through Friday
From 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
www.lamarlouisecurry.com
Follow Us
Twitter: @CurryCubs
Instagram
:
@Curry_IB
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL
DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
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Miami-Dade County Public Schools
The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida
Ms. Perla Tabares Hantman, Chair
Dr. Steve Gallon III, Vice Chair
Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall
Ms. Susie V. Castillo
Dr. Lawrence S. Feldman
Dr. Martin Karp
Dr. Lubby Navarro
Dr. Marta Pérez
Ms. Mari Tere Rojas
Student Advisor
Maria Martinez
SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
Mr. Alberto M. Carvalho
SCHOOL OPERATIONS
Mrs. Valtena G. Brown
Deputy Superintendent/Chief Operating Officer
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Vision Statement
We provide a world class education for every student.
Mission Statement
To be the preeminent provider of the highest quality education that empowers all students to be
productive lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.
Values
Excellence - We pursue the highest standards in academic achievement and organizational
performance.
Equity - We foster an environment that serves all students and aspires to eliminate the
achievement gap.
Student Focus - We singularly focus on meeting our students’ needs and supporting them in
fulfilling their potential.
Innovation - We encourage creativity and adaptability to new ideas and methods that will support
and improve student learning.
Accountability - We accept responsibility for our successes and challenges and seek to
transparently share our work in an ethical manner, as we strive towards continuous improvement.
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DISTRICT’S UNIVERSAL PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
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MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message from Principal
Message from Assistant Principals
School’s Mission Statement
Biography of person the school is named after
Faculty Roster
Feeder Pattern Schools
School Information
• Bell Schedule
• Early Sign Out
• Late Arrival
• Lost and Found School Policy
• Opening and Closing Hours of Schools
Important Dates
• Back to School Nights - Open House
• Interim Progress Report & Report Card Distribution
• School Calendar of Events
Academic Programs – Student Progression Plan (SPP)
Before/After School Care Program & Middle School Enrichment After School Program
Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD)
Bullying/Cyberbullying
Clinic
Closing of School
Community School Program
Discrimination/Harassment
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Dismissal
• Bicycles/Skateboards
• Rainy Day Dismissal
• Students Drop-Off Pick-up
Early Dismissal
Elevator
Emergency Contact Information
Fieldtrips
Homework
Interscholastic Athletics/Intramurals
Mealtime Environment
• Free Breakfast
• Free/Reduced Price Lunch Program
• Meal Prices
• PAYPAMS
• Peanut-Allergies/Peanut-Free School
Mental Health Services
Parent Toolkits
• Back to School Toolkit
Prekindergarten Programs
Protocols for Addressing Concerns
Public-Private Collaboration
Recess
Safety and Security
• Emergency Operations Plan
• Fire Drills
• Emergency Drills
• Lockdown Procedures
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• Threat Assessments
• Visitors
School Activities/Clubs
School Center for Special Instructions (SCSI)
School Class Pictures Process
School Transportation
Special Education/Section 504
Student Records
Student Services
Student Success Centers
The Parent Academy
Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students
Verification of Residency
Volunteer Program
Appendix A - School Calendars
Appendix B – Florida Statutes and School Board Policies
Appendix C – Disclosure at Time of Registration
Appendix D – Discrimination/Harassment Poster
Addendum – COVID-19
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Message from the Principal
I want to welcome you to the 2020 – 2021 school year. For the
past eight years, I have been presented with the great honor of
being the principal of this prestigious school.
Lamar Louise Curry Middle School is a place where great things
happen and that has been highlighted for its high levels of
achievement in the areas of academics, athletics and arts. The IB
program continues to provide the students the opportunity to be
challenged intellectually while encouraging them to be more creative
in their educational journey.
We are committed to continue to provide each child with an
environment that will foster a rich learning experience and an
opportunity for them to reach their greatest potential.
I look forward working with all of you - parents, students, teachers,
staff and the community, so that together we make this school year
another gleaming success.
Ms. Jean-Rachelle L. Baril, Principal
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Message from the Assistant Principals
We would like to welcome all our students and their families to the
2020 – 2021 school year. It is a pleasure to work alongside our
dedicated faculty and staff to provide our students with a rigorous
curriculum that focuses on each student’s individual needs and
maximizes their academic achievement. During this school year, we
will also be committed to focusing on each student’s social emotional
learning and supporting them during Distance Learning. We will strive
to make this school year the most enjoyable and rewarding year as
well as encourage students to achieve their greatest potential.
Ms. Janet Boué & Mr. Guillermo Cortez, Assistant Principals
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Lamar L. Curry Middle School
School Mission Statement
Miss Lamar Louise Curry
Miss Lamar Louise Curry was born in Key West, Florida on December 11, 1906
and Promoted to Glory on December 3, 2012. In 1917 she moved to Miami where
she graduated from Miami High School in 1923, and subsequently from Southern
College (now known as Florida Southern College) in 1927, located in Lakeland,
Florida. That same year she began her teaching career in the Dade county Public
School District at Andrew Jackson Junior High School, and in 1930 she was
transferred to Miami High School where she taught social studies for 32 years.
Miss Curry had a positive influence on more than 8,000 students, many of whom
became outstanding leaders. She served as the Honorary Chairperson of the
“Save Old Miami High School Building” Committee. The Miami-Dade County
School Board voted to honor Miss Curry by the naming of Lamar Louise Curry
Middle School at the school board meeting on August 23, 2000.
On May 20, 2004 Miss Lamar Louise Curry celebrated the opening of the school
with an office dedication ceremony. The ceremony was highlighted by powerful
words shared by Miss Curry while her former students as well as the schools’
current students were dazzled in the audience.
Our mission at Lamar Louise Curry Middle School is to ensure that our students will
continue to move forward towards bridging any academic gap while instilling success
through character development in a safe and healthy environment. We foresee our
students as imminent adults, who will not only set encouraging examples for others, but
also offer technologically multifaceted and academically well-formed experiences in
fashioning their own futures.
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Faculty Roster
Principal
Ms. Jean Rachelle L. Baril
Assistant Principals
Ms. Janet Boue
Mr. Guillermo Cortez
Student Services
Dr. Mariela Matamala
Ms. Patricia Ortega
Teachers
Acha, Lydia
Alvarez, Leticia
Alvarez, Maria
Anduray, Raul
Anduray, Yvonne
Arroyo, Julio
Barrueta, Yemen
Blum, Stephanie
Bronholc, Nir
Cardenas, Ana
Christensen,Melissa
Creasman, Jackelyn
De Armas, Lauren
DeArmas-Marrero, Janet
De La Paz, Janet
Dearmas-Marrero Janet
Fernandez, Naida
Figueras, Rosa
Flores, Gabriel
Florez, Diana
Franco, Leslie
Fuentes, Patricia
Gonzalez, Margina
Hernandez, Lourdes
Lamarca, Katherine
Lardi, Ofelia
Lizcano, Richard
Teachers
Lopez, Maria
Lopez, Michelle
Lugo, Michele
Martinez, Sonia
McFarley, Larry
Menendez, Sandra
Milian, Nancy
Miranda, Iran
Moise, Farah
Mosley, Franka
Mujica, Orestes
Munecas, Elizabeth
Perdomo, Pedro
Perez, Dunia
Quinn, Steven
Redlich, Maria
Ribot, Juan
Rodriguez, Diann
Rodriguez, Israel
Ruiz, Yolanda
Sangiovanni, Omar
Santos, Silvia
Soto, Barbara
Thomas, Judy
Torres, Vivian
Vita, Susan
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Feeder Pattern Schools
Elementary Schools Middle School Senior High School
Dr. Manuel Barreiro EL
Dante B. Fascell EL
Bowman F. Ashe/ Doolin K-8
Lamar L. Curry MS
John A. Ferguson Sr.
TERRA Environmental RI
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School Information
• Bell Schedule
1st Block: 9:10 AM – 11:10 AM
2nd Block: 11:20 AM – 1:45 PM
3rd Block: 1:55 PM – 3:50 PM
• Early Sign Out
The early release of students causes disruption to the academic performance of all
students and may create safety and security concerns. No students shall be released
within the final thirty (30) minutes of the school day unless authorized by the Principal or
Principal’s designee (i.e., emergency, sickness).
• Late Arrival
Students who are tardy to school must report to the Attendance Office to secure an admit.
Excessive tardiness may result in loss of privileges, detention, parent conference, and/or
suspension.
• Lost and Found School Policy
Lost and found is located in the Main Office. Students must ask clerical staff to assist
them in searching through the items.
• Opening and Closing Hours of Schools
School hours are from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Replacement ID Badges
Students will receive their first ID badge at no charge. Any lost or damaged ID
badges will be replaced at a fee of $2.00.
Important Dates
• Back to School Nights – Open House
School Level
Window Period
School Date
Elementary/K-8
Centers
TBD
Middle Schools
TBD
Senior High Schools
TBD
Special Centers
TBD
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• Interim Progress Report & Report Card Distribution
Grading Period
Interim Progress Report
Distribution
Report Card Distribution
1
9/25/2020
11/6/2020
2
12/4/2020
2/5/2021
3
2/19/2021
4/16/2021
4
5/7/2021
6/25/2021
• School Calendar of Events
Please make sure to check our website, www.lamarlouisecurry.com, and social media for
information on upcoming events.
Academic Programs – Student Progression Plan (SPP), School Board Policy 5410
Provides guidance to teachers, school and district administrators, parents and other stakeholders
regarding the requirements and procedures for students to progress from one grade to the next,
kindergarten through grade 12 and adult education. The information presented in this document
is derived from requirements set forth by Florida Statues, State Board of Education Rules and
Policies established by The School Board of Miami-Dade County.
Before/After School Care Program & Middle School Enrichment After School Program
For those parents considering going back to work and/or are presently working, there are 224 low
cost Before and After School Care programs that serve both Elementary and K-8 Center students
and 62 Middle School Enrichment After School programs that help tutor middle school students
throughout the Miami-Dade County School district. Each of these programs are staffed with state
certified instructors, state certified program managers, or state certified activity leaders who are
all prepared to enrich and expand the after-school experience of the students they serve.
This year, Miami-Dade County Public Schools will offer 286 After School programs on school
days. Before-school care programs will be provided as needed.
After-school care programs are conducted from the time of school dismissal until 6:00 p.m.
Before-school care programs begin approximately one hour before school starts. Summer Camp
operates from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Parents should check with their child's school for specific
start times.
All after-school care programs provide planned activities, which include homework assistance,
indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, snack time and various recreational activities. Many
programs offer reading and math tutoring, music, ceramics, chess, drama and other classes
designed to provide participants with a variety of educational and enrichment experiences.
Before-school care programs provide supervised, quiet activities for students.
The cost of Elementary and K-8 after school care is $40 per week; the cost of Middle School
Enrichment after school care is $40 per week; the cost of before school care is $20 per week and
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the cost of Summer Camp is $100.00 per week. These programs are offered by one of seven
providers:
• Miami-Dade County Public Schools Principal Operated Before After-School Programs
• Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA)
• Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA)
• Family Christian Association of America (FCAA)
• Sunshine After-School Child Care (SASCC)
• South Florida After-School All Stars (SFASAS)
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
Bring Your Own Device allows students, parents, staff and guests to integrate the utilization of
technology devices at specified times during the instructional day to enhance the learning
experience. Examples of the types of technology which can be used are Windows laptops/tablets,
Mac laptops, Android tablets, and iPads.
Bullying/Cyberbullying
The School Board has adopted a policy Against Bullying and Harassment with Bullying defined
by state law as systematically and chronically inflicting physical harm or psychological distress
on one or more students. Complaints of bullying should be reported to the Principal
promptly. Cyberbullying is a form of bullying that takes place virtually over digital devices such as
computers, smartphones, and tablets. Cyberbullying most commonly takes place via social media,
texting, instant messaging, and email. Say NO to cyberbullying! If you or someone you know is
being bullied, report this information to the Bullying/Harassment Anonymous Helpline at 305-995-
CARE (2273) or the school principal. Resources:
• http://studentservices.dadeschools.net/#
• http://studentservices.dadeschools.net/bullying/b-h_policy_manual.asp
• StopBullying.gov
• https://www.netsmartz.org/Cyberbullying
Clinic
The school’s clinic is located in the main office.
Closing of School
The emergency closing of a school for any cause, such as weather or in which the safety of
individuals may be endangered, is only at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools.
Community School Program
The Community School Program offers an opportunity for the public-school system to determine
the needs of the community and provides a mechanism to meet those needs. The curriculum of
the Community School Program is as wide and varied as the needs of the community it serves.
Community schools provide programs that are funded by fees, tuition, grants, and donations, on
community school sites, in adult centers, in satellite programs, and at off-campus, non-public
school locations throughout Miami-Dade County.
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Each of the 39 Community Education Centers offer classes for individuals of all ages, skill levels
and language capabilities. Students enrolling in language or computer classes have the
opportunity to enhance the job skills needed to satisfy the demands of today’s world. Annually,
thousands of people have taken advantage of these recreational and educational opportunities,
and if an individual or group wants to acquire a specific new skill, Miami-Dade County Public
Schools can work with each to create a class that suits the needs of all interests.
For more specific information on Miami-Dade County Public Schools Community Education and
Before and After School Care programs or Middle School Enrichment After School programs,
please log on to our website at www.dadecommunityschools.net
or please call Mr. Victor Ferrante,
Executive Director at 305-817-0014.
Discrimination/Harassment
The School Board has a prohibition against discrimination/harassment based on race, color,
ethnic or national origin, citizenship status, religion, marital status, disability, genetic information,
age, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender, gender identification, social and family
background, linguistic preference, pregnancy, and any other basis prohibited by law. Students
are encouraged to promptly report incidents of discriminatory or harassing conduct to their
Principal or the Office of Civil Rights Compliance (CRC) so that the conduct can be addressed
before it becomes severe, pervasive, and persistent. The School Board has also adopted a policy
Against Bullying and Harassment with Bullying defined by state law as systematically and
chronically inflicting physical harm or psychological distress on one or more students. Complaints
of bullying should be reported to the Principal promptly.
Dismissal
• Bicycles/Skateboards
The school has a designated area for bicycles.
• Rainy Day Dismissal
Students will be picked up in the Drop Off/Pick-up area.
• Student Drop-Off Pick-up
The student drop-off and Pick-up areas are along the north side (SW 47th Street)
of the school. Students cannot be picked-up or dropped-off in the teacher’s
parking lot or the bus loop on the east side of the school (SW 157
th Ave).
Early Dismissal
In the case of divorced or separated parents, the enrolling parent shall indicate on the Emergency
Student Data Form the individual(s) to whom the student may be released during the school day.
Elevator
The school elevator is to be used by individuals who are disabled or injured and cannot use the
stairs.
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Emergency Contact Information
Emergency Student Data Forms are distributed during the first week of school. Students are
expected to bring the forms home and present them to their parents/guardians. The form must be
carefully completed and returned. The information provided on the Emergency Student Data
Forms will enable school staff to contact the parent/guardian immediately in the case of an
emergency. Parent/Guardian(s) that provide a cell phone number will receive text messages
should an emergency arise. Students may only be released from school to the persons listed on
the form after presenting a picture identification. No persons, other than school staff, will have
access to the information submitted. Any divorced or separated parent contesting the information
in the Emergency Student Data Form may seek assistance from the court governing their divorce,
separation, or custody matters to compel the enrolling parent to revise the information.
Fieldtrips
All fieldtrips must be approved by the principal and Region Superintendent. Participation in
fieldtrips requires that the student present a fieldtrip form signed by the parent/guardian to his/her
teacher(s) in advance. In addition, at times vendors who have a “no refund” policy will require
schools to pay the full amount of the fieldtrip prior to the event. In this case, students/parents will
be notified in advance of the vendor’s “no refund” policy.
Homework
Principals are encouraged to work with teachers and parents to implement guidelines found in
Homework Policy 2330
. Teachers are required to provide students with make-up assignments
once the absence has been excused; however, it is the responsibility of the student to request
the assignments from the teacher(s).
• Homework Plan
1. Homework assignments will be assigned per night for each core content area course
including magnet electives and should not exceed 75 minutes per day. High School
Honors level/IB/Advanced courses may be assigned additional minutes per course each
night as needed. Due dates for projects and large assignments will extend over a period
of time. Each assignment will have check point due dates established.
2. Homework assignments in non-magnet elective classes will be given at a maximum of
one assignment per week. Elective teachers will coordinate the due dates so that the
assignments are due on different days of the week.
3. In addition to written homework, students are encouraged to read 30 minutes per day.
4. Homework guidelines do not apply to practice time for the Arts or extracurricular
activities.
Interscholastic Athletics/Intramurals
The Division of Athletics, Activities and Accreditation works with M-DCPS school sites to provide
students with opportunities to participate in athletics at various levels. Athletic programs are
offered at K-8 Centers, middle schools and high schools. At the middle schools, athletics consists
of intramural and interscholastic programs. At the high school level, interscholastic programs are
offered at most senior high schools.
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For participation in interscholastic athletics at the middle school level, a student must have a 2.00
GPA in conduct and academics to participate. His or her parent must sign the M-DCPS Middle
School Athletic Program Consent and Release from Liability Certificate. For participation in
interscholastic athletics at the high school level, a GPA of 2.00 in conduct and academics is
required except for incoming freshman. All participants must purchase athletic and/or football
insurance to participate and must have a current physical form on file.
A home education student must register his or her intent to participate in interscholastic
extracurricular activities as a representative of the school before participation.
The parents and student must also sign the Contract for Student Participation in Interscholastic
Competitions or Performances. The District also has policies concerning transfer students and
participation in athletics. If a parent has questions concerning these policies, he or she should
contact the Division of Athletics, Activities and Accreditation.
Mealtime Environment
School lunchtime should be an opportunity to encourage healthy lifestyle, promote socialization
that will affect early behaviors.
The Department of Food and Nutrition serves healthy meals daily. Please visit
nutrition.dadeschools.net for details on menus, programs, and services.
• Free Breakfast
Miami-Dade County Public Schools offers breakfast free of charge to all M-DCPS Students.
The breakfast at no charge is not dependent on the student qualifying for free/reduced price
meals at lunch.
• Free/Reduced Price Lunch Program
The USDA Child Nutrition Programs as administered by Miami-Dade County Public
Schools provide free and reduced priced lunch for children unable to pay the full price. In
place of the paper application, School Meal Program Brochures are distributed to all
students informing parents on the application process and meal program. Parents are
encouraged to complete an online application at the Department of Food and Nutrition
at
freeandreducedmealapp.dadeschools.net. Paper applications are available in the school’s
front office upon request. Many students are approved through Direct Certification and do
not submit a lunch application. If approved for meal benefits, the approval status is valid
throughout the school year, the summer, and approximately the first twenty days of the
next school year.
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• Meal Prices
Breakfast
School Lunch
Prices
All Students No Charge
Elementary Students
$ 2.25
Adults $ 2.00
Middle/Secondary Students
$ 2.50
Reduced Price lunch, all grade levels
$ 0.40
Adults
$ 3.00
• PAYPAMS
Miami-Dade County Public School’s Department of Food and Nutrition allows
parents/guardians the convenience to pay online for their child’s meals with a credit or debit
card at paypams.com. Parents/guardians create an account in PayPams for the child, and
will be able to access the following:
a. view the account balance
b. schedule automatic payments
c. receive low-balance e-mail reminders
d. view a report of daily spending and cafeteria purchases
• Peanut Allergies/Peanut-Free School
Parents/Guardians should notify the school principal of any allergy or other medical
condition their child has and request the appropriate forms for completion.
Mental Health Services
Miami-Dade County Public Schools established The Department of Mental Health
Services to ensure the coordination of school and community resources and services to
support the specific mental health needs of students. The programs in place provide
prevention initiatives and also services for students with pre-existing mental health
challenges. For assistance contact your child's school, the parent assistance line at
(305) 995-7100 or visit http://www.mentalhealthservices.dadeschoools.net.
Parent Toolkits
Visit http://toolkit.dadeschools.net for back-to-school information. Please note, for the opening of
2020-2021 school year, the site will direct you to http://reopening.dadeschools.net for the most
updated information.
Prekindergarten Programs
M-DCPS offers a variety of prekindergarten programs throughout the District. Parents should
contact their home school for the available options for Pre-K students. For additional information
on VPK or Head Start/Early Head Start Programs, parents may contact the Department of Early
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Childhood Programs at 305-995-7632. For information on Pre-K ESE Programs, parents should
contact 305-271-5701. Parents may also access information at earlychildhood.dadeschools.net.
Protocol for Addressing Parental Concerns
Parents may generally address their complaints or concerns to the school administration, which
may be followed by Region and District department review by appropriate. For issues involving
an individual teacher or class, parent/guardian address their concerns to the following individuals
in the order below.
Public-Private Collaboration
Requests for private instructional personnel to collaborate with public instructional personnel in
the educational setting should be directed to the Principal for application of District procedures.
Recess
Recess is supervised, unstructured playtime where children have choices, develop rules for play
and release energy and stress. Recess will be conducted outdoors when weather permits. In
the case of inclement weather, appropriate recess activities will be conducted indoors.
Schools shall provide at least 100 minutes of supervised, safe, and unstructured free-play recess
each week for students in kindergarten through grade 5, so that there are at least 20 consecutive
minutes of free-play recess per day.
Teacher
Assistant
Principal
Principal
Region Center:
Line Director
Region Superintendent
School Operations
District
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Safety and Security
• Emergency Operations Plan
Student and employee safety is a primary concern of the Miami-Dade County Public
School (M-DCPS) System. The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) was created to provide
school personnel with the necessary leadership skills and knowledge needed to respond
to critical incidents or other related emergencies that may occur in our schools/community.
All schools have a site-specific plan to address all types of critical incidents. These plans
address the individual needs of the school and provide guidelines for devising methods
for communicating with the staff, students, parents/guardians, and the media during a
critical incident or an emergency. Some of the protective action procedures include
emergency drills (active shooter, hostage, & bomb drills), , the evacuation of students/staff
from the building(s), evacuation of the disabled and if necessary the relocation of
students/staff from the school campus, lockdown procedures and holding/dismissing
students during school and community emergencies. Some important tips for
parents/guardians to remember during a Critical Incident are as follows:
o Remain calm;
o Monitor media outlets for updates and official messages from M-DCPS;
o Do not flood the school with telephone calls; and
o If the school is on lockdown, wait until the lockdown is lifted before going to the
school.
All school administrators, Region Center Superintendents/Directors and all MDSPD Police
officers have been adequately trained in the school EOP and are prepared to respond
immediately during a critical incident or emergency to provide safety for all children.
BeSafe Anonymous Reporting System (Insert Flyer)
http://hoover.dadeschools.net/portable_doc/68128_Be_Safe_Anonymous_Reporting_Sy
stem_Flyer.pdf
• Fire Drills
Ten fire drills will take place during the school year according to the Miami-Dade County
Public Schools Policy and Emergency Procedures. At the sound of the emergency bell,
students must stop what they are doing and follow the teacher’s instructions. Students
must clear the building promptly by the prescribed route. Any student who is in the hallway
or the restroom at the sound of the emergency bell must proceed to the nearest exit and
locate the teacher. Students, teachers and staff must remain outside the building until
permission is given to re-enter.
• Emergency Drills
Twenty-one emergency drills, to include one monthly active shooter drill and one hostage
situation or bomb threat drill, will take place during the school year according to Florida
Senate Bill 7026, also known as the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety
Act. One additional active shooter drill must take place within the first 30 days of the
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opening of schools. All emergency drills shall be conducted in accordance with the
appropriate corresponding situational response as outlined in the EOP and shall include
developmentally appropriate and age-appropriate procedures.
• Lockdown Procedures
Lockdowns are utilized in response to an immediate threat posed to students and staff.
Schools have successfully performed lockdowns in response to police activity adjacent to
a facility and potential armed intruders onsite. Students, faculty and staff will comply with
all the procedures outlined in the Miami-Dade Public Schools Critical Incident Response
Plan and remain on lockdown until a school administrator and/or law enforcement makes
an “All Clear” announcement.
• Threat Assessments
Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) has a mandated set of procedures for
threat assessment. A threat assessment is a problem-solving approach to violence
prevention that involves assessment and intervention with students who have threatened
violence in some way. When a preliminary determination is made, by the school
administrator or designee, that a student poses a threat of violence or physical harm to
him/herself or others is known, a Threat Assessment Team (TAT) shall be notified and
shall convene to determine the best course of action. Authorized members of the TAT
may obtain criminal history record information, if applicable. Students determined to be
at-risk for violence will be referred for mental health services. Threat assessment and
disciplinary procedures are separate processes. Regardless of whether a threat is
determined to be transient, serious substantive, or very serious substantive, appropriate
disciplinary procedures shall be followed in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.
• Visitors
Due to legal regulations, students are not permitted to have guests attend school with
them at any time. Parents/guardians are always welcome, and tours may be arranged with
the principal to view the school. Classroom visits require a request with 24-hour notice. All
visitors must first register with security at the main entrance, sign-in, produce photo
identification, and then proceed to register in the main office. Anyone who fails to follow
these procedures will be considered a trespasser and is subject to arrest.
School Activities/Clubs
All School Activities, clubs, and organizations must be approved by the principal and conform to
the School Board Policies 5845 - Student Activities, 5830 - Student Fundraising and
9211 – Parent
Organization, Booster Clubs, and Other Fund-Raising Activities.
• Clubs
Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ students may participate in a wide variety of activities,
including student council, subject-area clubs, honor societies, service clubs, school
publications and class activities. School-sponsored clubs may be curriculum-related or
noncurricular-related.
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Curriculum-related clubs are student groups whose goals are an extension of the activities
and objectives in a particular subject area within the school's curriculum. Conversely,
noncurricular-related clubs are student groups whose goals are special interest oriented
and not directly related to the curriculum. Meetings of noncurricular-related clubs may be
scheduled only at times when instruction is not taking place, either before or after school.
• School Club List
CLUBS
FEA
ART CLUB
Fishing Club
CHESS & Math CLUB
Geography Club
Chorus & Band
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
Dance
RJP Club
Drama
SECME
Environmental/Recycle Club
STUDENT COUNCIL
FBLA
*YEARBOOK/JOURNALISM
FCCLA
School Center for Special Instructions (SCSI)
School administrators may elect to assign students to the School Center for Special
Instruction (SCSI) as an interim alternative educational setting to suspension from school. SCSI
is designed to provide strategies and resources to students focused on learning new behavior
skills. When misconduct in a class results in an assignment to SCSI, the student should be
reassigned from only the class in which the misconduct occurred. Continued misconduct can
result in the reassignment from all classes.
School Class Picture Process
The school class picture monies will no longer be collected by school staff for this activity.
Collection of monies will be conducted by the photographer and/or photographer’s staff.
At no time, shall a staff member, parent, volunteer, or member of a school-allied organization
such as the PTA handle school class picture monies
.
School Transportation
Miami-Dade County Public Schools will transport more than 60,000 students a day this school
year, using a fleet of 1,300 buses on nearly 1100 school-bus routes. The service is for students
who live more than two (2) miles from their assigned school and for students with special needs
in some instances.
Before school begins, parents/guardians of all students eligible for bus transportation will receive
a post card from the school district identifying the student's bus stop and times of pick-up and
delivery. Information on student bus assignments will be posted on the Parent Portal at
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www.dadeschools.net. The information on bus assignments on the Parent Portal is updated each
night. Parents/guardians are encouraged to check the Parent Portal throughout the school year
to obtain the most current information on their children’s bus assignment.
Parents interested in determining their child's transportation eligibility should contact their child's
school for information.
Special Education/Section 504
The School Board of Miami-Dade County ensures that all students suspected of having a disability
are identified, evaluated, and provided appropriate, specially designed instruction and related
services, if it is determined that the student meets the state's eligibility criteria and the
parent/guardian consents to initial placement.
Students who are not eligible for specially designed instruction and related services in accordance
with state eligibility categories but have a disability that substantially affects a major life activity
may be eligible for accommodations pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
As the parent/guardian of a child with disabilities, you are a very important member of the team
that plans your child's education. Be informed and get involved. If you have any questions, please
contact your child's school. Staff from the special education department and your child's student
service provider will help to answer your questions. Additional information may also be found at
http://ese.dadeschools.net/
.
Student Records
The education records and personally identifiable information of students are protected by
The
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Florida Statutes. These laws provide
that without the prior consent of the parent, guardian or eligible student, a student's records may
not be released, except in accordance with the provisions listed in the above-cited laws. The laws
provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement to the release of student records,
which include, but are not limited to, school officials with a legitimate educational interest and
lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders with notice prior to disclosure. Parents and eligible
students are also provided the right to challenge the accuracy of their education records in
accordance with the procedures outlined in
School Board Policy 8330.
Each school must provide to the parent(s), guardian(s) or eligible student(s) an annual notice in
writing of their right to inspect and review student records. Once a student reaches 18 years of
age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education, the consent is required from the
student only, unless the student qualifies as a dependent under the law.
Student Services
The Division of Student Services provides prevention and intervention services to PK-Adult
students throughout the District. These services focus on the elimination of social and
emotional barriers that inhibit students’ academic success and prepare students to be college
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and career ready. An integrated team of uniquely trained student services professionals deliver
these direct services to students.
Student Success Centers
The Student Success Centers provide an educational setting and safe-haven for referred students
(ages 11 and older) exhibiting Level III-IV behavior and (with Region approval) habitual Level II
infractions of the Code of Student Conduct.
The Parent Academy
Miami-Dade County Public Schools created The Parent Academy to bridge the gap between
home and school by connecting parents to valuable resources and information, which answers
questions on topics that impact children’s lives, including helping children learn, parenting skills,
financial management, and health and wellness.
The Parent Academy supports parents in becoming more involved in their children’s education
and empowers them to set and achieve personal empowerment goals for higher education and
career advancement by providing free, year-round workshops, classes and events at schools,
libraries, parks, colleges, private businesses and neighborhood centers across the county.
Parents can participate in workshops and classes that are aligned to their needs and convenient
to their homes and workplaces. Upcoming events and workshop offerings are listed on The
Parent Academy website at parentacademymiami.com
. For additional information, please call
The Parent Academy at 305-995-2680 or The Department of Family Support Services at 305-
271-8257.
Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students
The School Board of Miami-Dade County has adopted comprehensive anti-discrimination and
anti-bullying policies that require all students be treated with respect regardless of their unique
characteristics, including sexual orientation or gender identity.
1
Every student has the right to
learn in a safe and accepting school environment and schools have a responsibility to provide a
safe and nondiscriminatory environment for all students, including transgender and gender
nonconforming students.
These guidelines are intended to promote a positive, proactive approach that upholds and
protects the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming students; and best practices to
ensure that transgender students and gender nonconforming students have equitable access to
all aspects of school life (academic, extracurricular and social) in ways that preserve and protect
their dignity.
Verifications of Residency
If verification is not provided or acceptable, the Superintendent may verify the student's residence.
1
See School Board Policies 5517, Anti-Discrimination/Harassment (Students) and 5517.01, Bullying and
Harassment.
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Anyone who knowingly makes a false statement in writing with the intent to mislead a public
servant in the performance of his/her official duty is guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor of
the second degree under F.S. 837.06
. In addition, anyone who knowingly makes a false verified
declaration is guilty of perjury, a third-degree felony under F.S. 95.525.
Volunteer Program
The School Volunteer Program is responsible for electronic registration, background checks and
trainings of volunteers. There are two different levels of volunteerism.
Level 1 - complete a database background
check
Level 2 - complete a fingerprint background
check
• Day chaperones for field trips
• Classroom assistants
• Math and/or reading tutors.
• Certified Volunteers
• Mentors
• Listeners
• Athletic/Physical Education assistants
• Overnight chaperones.
Any individual interested in volunteering in Miami-Dade County Public Schools must:
• Show a current valid government-issued identification with picture.
• Show a social security card (check name and number).
• Complete a background check.
• Upon clearance, attend an orientation at the school.
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APPENDIX A – School Calendars
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APPENDIX B – Florida Statues and School Board Policies
View all School Board Policies at: School Board Bylaws & Policies
Academics
• 2235 - MUSIC, ART, AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION
o Music, art, and physical education are fundamental subjects in the school's
curriculum because they contribute to every child’s academic and social
development. Art and Music education helps level the "learning field" across socio-
economic boundaries while strengthening student problem-solving and critical
thinking skills and contributing to the overall academic achievement of students.
• 2240 - CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES AND STUDENT EXPRESSION
o Students are encouraged to participate in discussions, speeches, and other
expressions in which many points of view, including those that are controversial,
are freely explored. A controversial issue is a topic on which opposing points of
view have been promulgated by responsible opinion or likely to arouse both
support and opposition in the community.
• 2370.01 – VIRTUAL INSTRUCTION
o The enrollment period for the District-operated full-time virtual instruction program,
Miami-Dade Online Academy, opens in the spring of each school year for a
minimum of ninety days and closes thirty days before the first day of the school
year.
•
2416 – STUDENT PRIVACY AND PARENTAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION
o Additionally, parents have the right to inspect, upon request, any instructional
material used as part of the educational curriculum of the student and within a
reasonable period of time after the request is received by the building principal.
"Instructional material" means instructional content that is provided to a student,
regardless of its format, including printed and representational materials, audio-
visual materials, and materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials
accessible through the Internet). The term does not include academic tests or
assessments.
• 2421 - K-12 CAREER-TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM
o Career-technical education is designed to provide career and technical education
experiences. These experiences will complement and reinforce academic
concepts that are particularly amenable to contextualized learning in a distinct
career area and provide occupationally specific skills.
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• 2440 - SUMMER SCHOOL
o The School Board may conduct a summer program of academic instruction for
students in grades K-12 and Special Education (SPED) students needing
extended school year services as identified in their Individual Education Plan
(I.E.P.). The School Board may also choose to implement summer enhancement
programs, contingent upon available funding. The School Board shall provide
transportation for full-time SPED students and other students as appropriate.
• 2510 - INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND RESOURCES
o The District shall maintain on its website a current list of instructional materials, by
grade level, purchased by the District. This list can be accesses at
http://im.dadeschools.net/
.
• 2623
- STUDENT ASSESSMENT
o Student assessment shall comply with the law and State Board of Education
rules to determine the progress of students and to assist them in attaining
student performance objectives and the educational achievement goals of the
District.
o State-mandated tests (e.g., diagnostic assessments and achievement tests) shall
be administered to all eligible students at the times designated by the State
Board of Education.
o Administrative procedures for test security and confidentiality of student results
are in place to maintain the integrity of District and State assessments.
• 5410 - STUDENT PROGRESSION PLAN
o Provides guidance to teachers, school and district administrators, parents and
other stakeholders regarding the requirements and procedures for students to
progress from one grade to the next, Kindergarten through grade 12 and Adult
Education. The information presented in the document is derived from
requirements set forth by Florida Statutes, State Board of Education Rules and
policies established by The School Board of Miami-Dade County.
Accident Reports/Incident Reports/School Safety
• 3213 - STUDENT SUPERVISION AND WELFARE
o Protecting the physical and emotional well-being of students is of paramount
importance. Each instructional staff member shall maintain the highest
professional, moral, and ethical standards in dealing with the supervision, control,
and protection of students on or off school property
• 5540 - INVESTIGATIONS INVOLVING STUDENTS
o School administrators shall respond to incidents involving students occurring on
school grounds or at school-sponsored events. When conducting an initial fact
inquiry, if an administrator suspects that a crime has been committed, they must
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report the matter to School Police or another appropriate law enforcement agency
to assume the investigative responsibilities.
• 5772 - WEAPONS
o Students are prohibited from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon,
including a concealed weapon, in a school safety zone and any setting that is under
the control and supervision of the School Board for the purpose of school activities
approved and authorized by the School Board including, but not limited to, property
leased, owned, or contracted for by the School Board, a school-sponsored event,
or in a School Board-owned vehicle.
• 7217 - WEAPONS
o Visitors are prohibited from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon,
including a concealed weapon, in a school safety zone and any setting that is under
the control and supervision of the School Board for the purpose of school activities
approved and authorized by the School Board including, but not limited to, property
leased, owned, or contracted for by the School Board, a school-sponsored event,
or in a School Board-owned vehicle.
• 8405 - SCHOOL SAFETY
o The School Board is committed to maintaining a safe and drug-free environment
in all of the District’s schools. School crime and violence are multifaceted problems
that need to be addressed in a manner that utilizes all available resources in the
community through a coordinated effort of School District personnel, law
enforcement agencies, and families. School administrators and local law
enforcement officials must work together to provide for the safety and welfare of
students while they are at school or a school-related event or are on their way to
and from school.
• 8410 – EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, PREPAREDNESS, AND RESPONSE
o The District Critical Incident Response Team (DCIRT) is responsible for assisting
schools with emergencies/critical incidents as needed and coordinate District
resources.
• FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 943.082 – SCHOOL SAFETY AWARENESS
PROGRAM
o FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows users to instantly relay
information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials.
FortifyFL was created and funded by the 2018 Florida Legislature as part of the
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act. It is available for free
download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It may also be
accessed from the Dadeschools.net homepage, as well as the student, parent, and
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employee portal pages. A link to FortifyFl has also been placed on each school
site information page.
Admission, Registration and Immunization Requirements
• 5112 - ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
o Establishes the admission and registration requirements for students entering
school. The following documents and forms are to be provided upon initial
registration:
Original birth certificate
Verification of age and legal name
Proof of a physical examination by an approved health care provider
including a tuberculosis clinical screening, appropriate follow-up, and a
certificate of immunization
Two (2) verification of parent/legal current residence (address)
• 5114 - FOREIGN STUDENTS
o Entry requirements into schools are the same for all students, regardless of country
of birth and immigration status. All students will register at the school of the actual
residence of the parent in the attendance area as approved by the School Board.
• 5320 – IMMUNIZATION
o All students shall be immunized against polio, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
diphtheria, pertussis tetanus (DTaP), hepatitis B, and varicella (chicken pox).
Student’s with a documented history of the varicella (chicken pox) disease are not
required to receive the varicella vaccine. This policy applies to students who
currently attend school in the District and those eligible to attend.
o A student who has not completed the required immunization will not be admitted
to school.
o Students may receive the Haemophilus Influenzae vaccine during school hours for
free. Parents/Guardians MUST provide consent. Parents/guardians should
contact their child’s school to determine when the flu vaccine will be offered at their
child’s school.
Animals on District Property
• 8390 - ANIMALS ON DISTRICT PROPERTY
o Service animals as required by law are permitted in schools. “Service animals”
pursuant to 28 C.F.R. 35.104, means any dog that is individually trained to do work
or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a
physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.
o All animals, including service animals, housed on District property or brought on
District property on a regular basis must meet every State and County veterinary
requirement, including but not limited to, rabies vaccination or other inoculations
required to be properly licensed.
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o Students are not allowed to bring pets to school.
Anti-Discrimination Policy
• 5517 – ANTI-DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT (STUDENTS)
o The School Board shall comply with all Federal laws and regulations prohibiting
discrimination/harassment based on sex, race, color, ethnic or national origin,
religion, marital status, disability, age, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender,
gender identification, social and family background, linguistic preference,
pregnancy, and any other basis prohibited by law and all requirements and
regulations of the U.S. Department of Education. The School Board will enforce its
prohibition against such discrimination/harassment against students in accordance
with School Board Policies
5517, 5517.02 and 5517.03. This policy prohibits
discrimination and harassment at all School District operations, programs, and
activities on school property, or at another location if it occurs during an activity
sponsored by the School Board.
• 5517.01 – BULLYING AND HARASSMENT
O The School Board is committed to providing a safe learning environment for all
students and shall strive to eradicate bullying and harassment in its schools, with
bullying defined as systematically and chronically inflicting physical hour or
psychological distress on one or more students.
O The School Board is committed to providing awareness, prevention, and education
in promoting a school atmosphere in which bullying, harassment, and intimidation
will not be tolerated by students, School Board employees, visitors, or volunteers.
O This policy provides the steps to individual complaints of bulling and harassment
and the process for addressing the complaints.
• 5517.02 - DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT COMPLAINT PROCEDURES FOR
STUDENTS
o Students and parents are encouraged to promptly report complaints of
discriminatory or harassing conduct to their Principal. Additionally, they may file
the complaint directly with the Region Office or the District’s Office of Civil Rights
Compliance (CRC).
o All complaints involving student to student harassment, except sexual harassment,
will be first investigated at the school site. If such complaints are made directly to
the District Office, the Region Office or the CRC Office, they will be referred to the
school site for the initial investigation. Complaints including sexual harassment of
a student will be investigated by the CRC Office with support from school.
o This policy provides the steps to individual complaints of discrimination and
harassment based on protected categories and the process for addressing the
complaints.
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Attendance Policy/School Hours
• 5200 – ATTENDANCE
o Student attendance is a means of improving student performance and critical in
raising student achievement. Together, the staff of Miami-Dade County Public
Schools, students, parents and the community must make every effort to lessen
the loss of instructional time to students.
• 5225 - ABSENCES FOR RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS
o Student absences for religious purposes, as identified on the approved holidays
listed in the Student Attendance Reporting Procedures PK-12 Handbook
, may not
prohibit students from receiving attendance awards or other attendance incentives
at the school level, region level, or District level.
• 5230 - LATE ARRIVAL AND EARLY DISMISSAL
o Students shall be in attendance throughout the school day. If a student will be late
to school or dismissed before the end of the school day, the parent shall notify the
school in advance and state the reason for the tardiness or early dismissal.
Justifiable reasons shall be determined by the principal. Students will be counted
absent if they are not present in class for at least half of the class period. To be
counted "present" for the day, the student must be in attendance for a minimum of
two hours of the day unless extenuating circumstances exist.
o The parent – and in the case of divorced or separated parents, the enrolling parent
shall indicate on the Emergency Student Data Form the individual(s) to whom the
student may be released during the school day.
• 8220 - SCHOOL DAY
o The Superintendent shall annually establish the hours of the school day. The
Superintendent may authorize exceptions from the regular school day.
o The Superintendent may close the schools, delay the opening of school, or dismiss
school early when such alteration in the regular session is required for the
protection of the health and safety of students and staff members.
Ceremonies & Observances
• 8800 - RELIGIOUS/PATRIOTIC CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES
o Acknowledgement of, explanation of, and teaching about religious holidays of
various religions is permitted. Celebration activities involving nonreligious
decorations and use of secular works are permitted, but it is the responsibility of
all faculty members to ensure that such activities are strictly voluntary, do not place
an atmosphere of social compulsion or ostracism on minority groups or individuals,
and do not interfere with the regular school program.
Class Size
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• CLASS SIZE STATE STATUTE
o Florida citizens approved an amendment that set limits on the number of students
in core academic classes in public schools. The amendment requires classes to
be in compliance at the class level. However, pursuant to language passed by the
2013 Florida Legislature in HB 7009
and subsequently approved by the Governor,
amending Florida Statute 1002.31, Public School Parental Choice, the calculation
for compliance with class size limits pursuant to Florida Statute 1003.03 for a
school or program that is a public school of choice is measured by the average
number of students at the school level.
Clinic
• 5330 – USE OF MEDICATIONS
o The School Board shall not be responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of
student illness. The administration of prescribed medication and/or medically-
prescribed treatments to a student during school hours will be permitted only when
failure to do so would jeopardize the health of the student, the student would not
be able to attend school if the medication or treatment were not made available
during school hours, or the child is disabled and requires medication to benefit from
his/her educational program.
Code of Student Conduct
• 2451 - ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL PROGRAMS
o The Superintendent may provide alternative education programs for students who,
in the opinion of the Superintendent, will benefit from this educational option.
Participation in an alternative program does not exempt the student from
complying with school attendance rules or the Code of Conduct.
• 5136.02 - SEXTING
o Sexting is the act of sending or forwarding through cellular telephones and other
electronic media sexually explicit, nude, or partially nude photographs/images.
[add something about disciplinary measures] It is the District's mission to ensure
the social, physical, psychological, and academic well-being of all students. The
educational purposes of the schools are best accomplished in a climate of student
behavior that is socially acceptable and conducive to the learning and teaching
process.
• 5500 - STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE
o The Code of Student Conduct (COSC) is aligned to local, state, and federal
mandates with an emphasis on promoting a safe learning environment to ensure
academic success. The Code of Student Conduct sets the standards of conduct
expected of students in a purposeful safe learning environment which the
principles of care, courtesy, civility, fairness, acceptance of diversity, and respect
for the rights of others is valued. It also addresses the role of the
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parents/guardians, the students, and school, but also focuses on core values and
model student behavior, rights and responsibilities of students, addressing student
behavior, and disciplinary procedures.
o Furthermore, it should also be noted that behaviors committed on or off the school
campus may be violations of the COSC and may also be violations of Florida law.
These violations may result in disciplinary actions imposed by local law
enforcement authorities, in addition to those of the school/district. The
Superintendent, principals, and other administrators shall assign
discipline/corrective strategies to students, including assignment to an interim
alternative educational setting pursuant to the Code of Student Conduct and, in
accordance with the student’s due process rights.
• 5511 - DRESS CODE AND SCHOOL UNIFORMS
o Students are expected to come to school with proper attention having been given
to personal cleanliness, grooming, and neatness of dress. Students whose
personal attire or grooming distracts the attention of other students or teachers
from their schoolwork shall be required to make the necessary alterations to such
attire or grooming before entering the classroom or be sent home by the principal
to be properly prepared for school. Students who fail to meet the minimum
acceptable standards of cleanliness and neatness as determined by the principal
and as specified in this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary measures.
Digital Conversion/Social Media
• 7540.03 - STUDENT RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND
DISTRICT NETWORK SYSTEMS
o The School Board provides students access to a large variety of technology and
network resources which provide multiple opportunities to enhance learning and
improve communication within the school district and the community. All users
must, however, exercise appropriate and responsible use of school and District
technology and information systems. Users include anyone authorized by
administration to use the network. This policy is intended to promote the most
effective, safe, productive, and instructionally sound uses of network information
and communication tools.
Equal Opportunity
• 2260 - NONDISCRIMINATION AND ACCESS TO EQUAL EDUCATIONAL
OPPORTUNITY
o The School Board shall provide equal opportunity for all students and will not
discriminate or tolerate harassment in its educational programs or activities on any
basis prohibited by law or School Board Policy.
• 5111.01 - HOMELESS STUDENTS
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o The District Project UP-START program serves children and youth who are
identified as meeting the Federal definition of "homeless". Homeless children and
youth, including those who are not currently enrolled in school due to
homelessness, shall have equal access to the same free appropriate public
education (FAPE) in public schools and preschool education programs in the same
manner as all other District students.
o Additionally, homeless students shall have access to other services needed to
ensure an opportunity to meet the same challenging State academic standards to
which all students are held and to fully participate in the District’s academic and
extra-curricular activities for which they meet relevant eligibility criteria. To that
end, homeless students shall not be stigmatized or segregated on the basis of their
status as homeless.
Fieldtrips/School Social Events
• 2340 - FIELD AND OTHER DISTRICT-SPONSORED TRIPS
o Field trips should supplement and enrich classroom procedures by providing
learning experiences in an environment outside the schools, arouse new interests
among students, help students relate school experiences to the reality of the world
outside of school, bring the resources of the community - natural, artistic, industrial,
commercial, governmental, educational - within the student's learning experience,
and afford students the opportunity to study real things and real processes in their
actual environment.
o Other District-sponsored trips are defined as any planned, student-travel activity
approved as part of the District's total educational program and is under the direct
supervision and control of an instructional staff member or any advisor designated
by the Superintendent.
• 5850 - SCHOOL SOCIAL EVENTS
o School facilities and appropriate staff will be made available for social events
approved by the principal within and outside school facilities.
• 8640 - TRANSPORTATION FOR FIELD AND OTHER DISTRICT-SPONSORED TRIPS
o Regular or special-purpose school vehicles shall be used for transportation on field
and other District-sponsored trips.
Financial Obligations
• 6152 - STUDENT FEES
o The School Board may levy certain charges to students to facilitate the utilization
of adequate, appropriate learning materials used in the course of instruction.
Food & Nutrition/Wellness Policy
• 8500 - FOOD SERVICES
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o The Food and Nutrition service program strives to provide school food services
consistent with the nutritional needs of students and provide school food services
that contribute to the student’s educational experiences and the development of
desirable eating habits.
• 8510 - WELLNESS POLICY
o The District is committed to providing a healthy environment for students and staff
within the school environment, recognizing that individuals must be physically,
mentally, and socially healthy in order to promote wellness and academic
performance.
o The District focuses on achieving five goals: nutrition, physical education, physical
activity: recess, health & nutrition literacy and preventive healthcare.
• 8531 - FREE AND REDUCED-PRICE MEALS
o All students determined to be economically needy shall be provided upon request
a free or reduced-price meal or meals at school.
Fundraising
• 5830 – STUDENT FUNDRAISING
o Student fundraising by students is limited in order to prevent disruption and
includes student solicitation and collection of money for any purpose including
collection of money in exchange for tickets, papers, or any other goods or services.
Student fundraising in school, on school property, or at any school-sponsored
event is permitted only when the profit is to be used for school purposes or for an
activity connected with the schools.
o No student, school organization, or member of the school staff may solicit funds in
the name of the school from the public for any purpose without prior approval of
the school principal and the Region Superintendent or his/her designee. All
approvals must be in writing using the approved District forms and must be
retained at the school for audit purposes.
• 6605 – CROWDFUNDING
o Crowdfunding activities aimed at raising funds for a specific classroom or school
activity, including extra-curricular activity, or to obtain supplemental resources
(e.g., supplies or equipment) that are not required to provide a free appropriate
public education to any students in the classroom may be permitted, but only with
the specific approval by the principal and the region administrator. Crowdfunding
for specific causes requires the approval of the Superintendent or his/her
designee.
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• 9211 – SCHOOL – ALLIED AND OTHER OUTSIDE SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
o The School Board appreciates the efforts of all organizations whose objectives are
to enhance the educational experiences of District students, to help meet
educational needs of students and/or provide extra educational benefits.
Health Screening
• 2410 - SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES PROGRAM
o The health services provided by the District shall supplement, not replace, parental
responsibility, and shall appraise, protect, and promote student health. These
services shall be designed to encourage parents to devote attention to child health,
to discover health problems, and to encourage the use of the services of
physicians, dentists, and community health agencies as needed.
o Vision, hearing, scoliosis, and growth and development screenings are conducted
based on mandated grade levels. Screenings do not substitute a thorough
examination in a medical providers office. Parents/guardians must provide the
school with written notification if you do not want your child to participate in the
screening program.
Homework
• 2330 - HOMEWORK
o Homework is an essential component of the learning process for students with the
assignment of meaningful learning activities. Assignments should be based on
learning outcomes that build students’ conceptual understanding, develop thinking
skills, and focus on the application of knowledge.
Internship
• 2424 - STUDENT INTERNSHIPS
o Student participation in an internship program authorized by the High School to
Business Career Enhancement Act may serve as a positive educational
experience and provide a foundation for future employment opportunities.
Parent Choice Student Transfers
• 2431 - INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS
o All activities relating to competitive sport contests, games, or events involving
individual students or teams of students from high schools in this District with those
from a high school in another district.
o All high schools shall be members of and governed by the Florida High School
Athletic Association (FHSAA) rules and regulations and shall comply with the
eligibility requirements established by the FHSAA.
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• 5120 - STUDENT SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT AND ATTENDANCE BOUNDARY
COMMITTEE
o The assignment of students to District schools shall be consistent with the best
interests of students and the best use of District resources.
• 5131 – CONTROLLED OPEN ENROLLMENT/PARENT / STUDENT TRANSFERS
O This policy governs all regular school transfers from one (1) school to another,
except for transfers to Magnet programs/schools that are subject to specific
admissions requirements and governed by School Board Policy 2370
, Magnet
Programs/Schools.
O Controlled Open Enrollment allows the School District to make K-12 school
assignments using parents indicated preferential educational choice in-county and
out-of-county. This section of the policy does not apply to charter schools. Charter
schools must adopt their own controlled open enrollment plan.
O Controlled Open Enrollment is active during a specific window period between end
of year and the subsequent school year.
Parent Involvement
• 2111 - PARENT INVOLVEMENT– A HOME-SCHOOL-DISTRICT PARTNERSHIP
o A collaborative environment is encouraged in which the parents and families of
District students are invited and encouraged to be involved stakeholders in the
school community. This policy establishes the framework and responsibilities for
implementation of strategies to increase family and community involvement. A
copy of this policy must be distributed to all parents.
• 9210 - PARENT ORGANIZATIONS
o The Parent-Teacher/Parent-Teacher-Student Associations (PTA/PTSA) in the
District are acknowledged as sincerely interested in, and staunch supporters of
public education in Miami-Dade County.
Pledge of Allegiance
• 8810 - THE AMERICAN FLAG AND OFFICIAL MOTTO OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
o The Pledge of Allegiance shall be recited at the beginning of the day in every
school.
o A student has the right not to participate in reciting the pledge. Upon written request
by his/her parent, the student must be excused from reciting the pledge, including
standing and placing the right hand over his/her heart.
Privacy
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• 2416 - STUDENT PRIVACY AND PARENTAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION
o Parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey or evaluation created by
a third party or any instrument used in the collection of personal information before
the survey/evaluation is administered or distributed by the school to the student.
The parent will have access to the survey/evaluation or instrument within a
reasonable period of time after the request is received by the principal.
Schools of Choice/Magnet Schools
• 2370 - MAGNET PROGRAMS/SCHOOLS
o Magnet programs/schools broaden public school choice, stem declining
enrollment, mitigate overcrowding, help comply with Federal and State-mandated
public school choice provisions, accommodate parent/student interest, improve
the quality of education, and promote diverse student enrollments. Magnet
programs/schools are unique educational programs operating within the District,
for which additional resources and/or ancillary services may be provided to help
make such educational experiences available to students beyond a single
attendance boundary area.
School Transportation/Bus Safety Conduct
• 8600 – TRANSPORTATION
o Students living more than two miles from their home school will be eligible for
District-provided bus transportation. Students who attend school out of their home
school zone will not be eligible for District-provided transportation.
Special Education/Section 504
• 2260.01 SECTION 504 PROCUDURES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
o A student is entitled to a free appropriate public education FAPE and may be
entitled to Section 504 accommodations if s/he has a physical or mental
impairment that substantially limits one (1) or more major life activities.
• 2460 – EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION
o The School Board shall provide a free, appropriate, public education for students
with disabilities according to State and Federal laws, rules, and regulations and
shall implement the procedures document entitled Exceptional Student Education
Policies and Procedures.
• FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 1003.572 - PUBLIC-PRIVATE COLLABORATION
o Parents who wish to request public-private collaboration in the educational setting
should direct requests to the Principal for application of District procedures.
Requests should be made in writing on District forms and specify the purpose of
the collaboration. The principal will review requests and provide approval in
accordance with statutory guidelines.
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Student Activities
• 5845 - STUDENT ACTIVITIES
o All clubs and organizations approved by the principal to operate within the school
must comply with this district policy. A student who wishes to represent the school
through interscholastic competitions or performance must comply with the criteria
set forth in policy.
Student Records/Access to Student Records
• 8330 - STUDENT RECORDS
o Parents and eligible students have the right to access education records,
including the right to inspect and review those records, and have the right to waive
their access to their education records in certain circumstances. Prior written
consent of the parent, guardian, or eligible student shall be obtained prior to
disclosing personally identifiable student information, except under certain
circumstances.
• 8350 - CONFIDENTIALITY
o A student's educational record and all personally identifiable information shall not
be properly released except on the condition that the information being
transferred will not be subsequently released to any other party without first
obtaining the consent of the parent or adult/eligible student.
Student Services
• 2290 - CHARACTER EDUCATION
o The School Board shall assist all students in developing the core values and
strength of character needed for them to become caring, responsible citizens at
home, school, and in the community. There are nine core values that form the
basis for the character education program. These values are Citizenship,
Cooperation, Fairness, Honesty, Kindness, Integrity, Pursuit of Excellence,
Respect, and Responsibility.
• 5530 - DRUG PREVENTION
o Schools shall strive to prevent drug abuse and help drug abusers through
educational means.
o The use, possession, concealment, or distribution of any drug or any drug-related
paraphernalia, or the misuse of a product containing a substance that can provide
an intoxicating or mood-altering effect or the misuse of any "over-the-counter"
medications or substances are prohibited on school grounds, on school vehicles,
and at any school-sponsored event.
Title I – Schoolwide Program
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• 2261 - TITLE I SERVICES
o The School Board elects to augment the educational program of disadvantaged
students through the use of Federal funds, in accordance with the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965, as reauthorized under the Every
Student Succeeds Act of 2015. The ESEA is based on four (4) basic principles:
stronger accountability for results, increased flexibility and local control, expanded
options for parents, and an emphasis on proven educational methods. Parents of
participating students are encouraged to be involved in programs, activities, and
procedures that are planned and implemented to support children's academic
growth.
Technology
• 7540 – COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKS
o The School Board is committed to the effective use of technology to both enhance
the quality of student learning and the efficiency of Board operations. The School
Board prohibits any access and use of social media by students and staff
members from the District's network, except to the District's collaboration sites
and/or approved sites as directed by the Superintendent.
• 7540.01 – TECHNOLOGY PRIVACY
o All computers, telephone systems, electronic mail systems, and voice mail
systems are the District's property and are to be used primarily for business
purposes. The District has the right to access and review all electronic and voice
mail, computer files, data bases, and any other electronic transmissions
contained in or used in conjunction with the District's computer system, telephone
system, electronic mail system, and voice mail system.
• 7540.03 – STUDENT RESPONSIBLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND
DISTRICT NETWORK SYSTEMS
o The School Board provides students access to a large variety of technology and
network resources which provide multiple opportunities to enhance learning and
improve communication within the school district and the community. All users
must, however, exercise appropriate and responsible use of school and District
technology and information systems. Users include anyone authorized by
administration to use the network. This policy is intended to promote the most
effective, safe, productive, and instructionally sound uses of network information
and communication tools.
• 7540.06 – STUDENT ELECTRONIC MAIL
o This policy establishes the use of District student electronic mail (e-mail) system
by students, their parents and others and applies to any and all electronic
messages composed, sent or received by anyone using the District’s student e-
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mail system. Authorized users of e-mail are students, their parents and any other
individuals or groups issued District student e-mail accounts
Threat Assessments
• FLORIDA STATUTES, SECTION 1006.07(7)
o The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Act, among other things, requires the school
district to form Threat Assessment Teams at each school to coordinate resources
and assessment and intervention with individuals whose behavior may pose a
threat to the safety of school staff and students.
Visitors
• 9150 - SCHOOL VISITORS
o Parents, other adult residents of the community, and interested educators are
encouraged to visit schools. All visitors must present identification that will be
processed through the District’s RAPTOR system prior to being permitted entry
into the school grounds.
o The Principal has the authority, however, to prohibit the entry of any person to a
school or expel any person when there is reason to believe the presence of such
person would be detrimental. If an individual refuses to leave the school grounds
or creates a disturbance, the principal is authorized to request assistance from
School Police or the local law enforcement agency to remove the individual. A
visitor’s refusal to adhere to the school principal’s directive to leave the school
grounds, will subject the visitor to arrest.
Volunteer Program
• 2430.01 - SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS
o The School Board recognizes that certain programs and activities can be
enhanced through the use of volunteers who have knowledge or skills that will be
helpful to members of the school staff who are responsible for the conduct of
those programs and activities. A school volunteer is any non-compensated
person who may be appointed by the Superintendent or his/her designee. School
volunteers may include, but are not limited to, parents, senior citizens, students,
and others who assist the teacher or other members of the school staff.
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APPENDIX C – Disclosure at Time of Registration
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Addendum to 2020-2021 Parent/Student Handbook
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
COVID-19 Policies and Procedures for the Schoolhouse Instructional Model
During declared health emergencies, the District will implement policies and procedures
consistent with applicable Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida
Department of Health (FDOH) guidance. In addition, as applicable, the District will consult with
and comply with applicable local health department protections. Requirements and procedures
established by the District in response to an emergency affecting the health safety and welfare of
our students and staff will take precedence over provisions of the Parent/Student Handbook when
necessary and until the emergency has ended. Due to circumstances related to the COVID-19
public health emergency, Miami-Dade County Public Schools may need to alter or suspend select
in-person operations to protect the health and safety of its students, employees, and their families.
Please refer to http://reopening.dadeschools.net/index.html to find updated information regarding
the District’s reopening plan. The following procedures and guidelines are applicable to student
attendance in brick and mortar buildings during Stage II reopening.
Arrival Procedures During Stage II
Children, parents and visitors are always required to maintain the maximum amount of social
distancing possible during arrival. No one should congregate in large groups.
School Plan
The arrival process will be conducted through one open gate for the parents’ drop off area
in order to control the entry procedures. The students who walk or ride their bicycles will
use the entrance of the parents’ drop off.
Students’ arrival from the public and private buses will take place through the back gate
and one entry door in order to control the flow of incoming students.
Once students enter the campus, we will be holding them in our school’s plaza ensuring
that they are following social distancing guidelines. Supervision will be provided by school
staff including administration, security, and paraprofessionals. Students will have the
opportunity to eat breakfast in our school’s cafeteria adhering to the required six feet of
separation for social distancing.
Dismissal Procedures During Stage II
Children, parents and visitors are always required to maintain the maximum amount of social
distancing possible during arrival. No one should congregate in large groups.
School Plan
The dismissal plan is to have the students reporting to different areas for their pickup at
the end of the school day. The students who ride the private and public buses will report
to the cafeteria area and bus loop. The students who are picked up by their parents and
or Uber will report to the auditorium. The parents will receive a notification for a schedule
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of dismissal by grade level so that they can plan their arrival to the school. The dismissal
process will begin with grade 6, then grade 7 and grade 8. The students with a younger
sibling will depart at the scheduled time of the younger sibling. Students who walk home
or use their bicycles will leave with the last group of parent pick up.
Breakfast/Lunch During Stage II
School Plan
The school will have 2 to 3 lunches according to the number of students returning
physically. The students will be reporting to lunch in the cafeteria and the plaza during
their designated time. The cafeteria will host about 100 students while respecting the CDC
guidelines during seating and while in line getting the food. The administrative team along
with the security monitors will be supervising the eating areas during the lunches. The
cafeteria traffic flow will be marked.
Before/After School Care During Stage II
The school does not have an after school program.
School Transitions
All MDCPS schools have put procedures in place to limit large group gatherings. Signage has
been placed throughout every campus to remind students of the expectations to promote the
safest learning environment possible. When transition between classrooms is necessary schools
have developed a plan of either one way or two-lane hallways depending on school design and
need. School staff will monitor transitions to ensure students are maintaining maximum social
distancing and wearing face coverings. Parents should remind students of the need to comply
with school procedures to ensure their safety as well as their classmates.
School Plan
Our school plan for students transitioning during the school day includes signage indicating one-
way directional traffic in hallways and courtyard area. Teachers will be at their doors supervising
students during class changes and security personnel will ensure that bathrooms are not utilized
during class transitions. The staff members will remind the students of the handwashing
procedures.
School custodial staff will perform routine environmental cleaning or regular cleaning for most
surfaces. School site custodial procedures have been adjusted to increase the frequency of
sanitizing high-touch areas with hospital-grade germicide throughout the day. Upon the end of
each day, custodial teams will sanitize all areas of the campus in preparation for the next day of
learning.
Duty to Report Symptoms
If anyone in the student’s household in is diagnosed with COVID-19, parents/guardians must
report that exposure to the school(s). The school will consult with the public health department to
assess what precautions should be taken, including but not limited to, asking your student to stay
home from school for fourteen (14) days in order to protect the school community. This is a
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precaution, and the school will work with you to keep your student engaged and current on all
schoolwork to the extent possible during the fourteen (14) day period.
Daily Pre-Arrival Health Screening
Before coming to school in the morning, students and parents should assess whether the student
has any symptoms of COVID-19. At this time, those symptoms include: a fever over 100.4
degrees Fahrenheit; cough; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; fatigue; muscle or body
aches; headache; new loss of taste or smell; sore throat; congestion or runny nose; nausea or
vomiting; or diarrhea. If a student develops any of these symptoms, the symptoms should be
reported to the school and discussed prior to the student reporting to school.
While the District will not be taking temperature checks on-site at this time, the school will rely on
the students, staff, and families to report accurate information for the safety of all the other families
affected throughout the District.
All information provided will be kept confidential as required by law, except to the extent that it is
necessary to advise or protect staff and other students from transmission of the virus.
If you have symptoms or are diagnosed with COVID-19, or a family member residing in your
household tests positive for COVID-19, your student may be required to stay home until they can
be tested or receive medical clearance indicating they do not have COVID-19 and can safely
return to school.
Expectations of All Students at School
General:
1. Stay home if sick.
2. Sanitize hands with hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol upon entering the
building.
3. Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap
and water are not available.
4. Avoid touching face and eyes.
5. Wash/sanitize hands after touching or removing facial covering.
6. Limit use of shared objects, such as physical education equipment, playground
equipment, art supplies, toys, and games. Shared objects will be cleaned after each use.
7. Bring personal water bottles with water. Water fountains will be turned off and hydration
stations will be made available for refills.
8. Follow all directions provided by teachers or administrators for the safety of the school
community. It is especially important that students stay in the classrooms and spaces
Face Coverings and Social Distancing:
1. All persons must maximize physical distancing to the extent possible under the
circumstances.
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2. All persons must wear facial coverings that cover both the mouth and nose when on school
board property, at a school board activity, or riding a bus or in other approved
transportation. Students and children over 2 years of age are expected to come to school
each day with their personal face coverings. However, quality facial coverings will be
available for distribution to students in case of emergency or to reduce stigma where
necessary. Students are responsible for their own personal property and face coverings
should be stored appropriately. If your child needs a face covering, please contact your
child’s principal.
3. Facial coverings must be made from a minimum of double layer cloth and be snug fitting
to cover both the nose and mouth. Facial coverings should not include any type of
exhalation valves or vents or masks designed as a costume.
4. It is recommended to have two face coverings available each day in case one face
covering becomes unfit for use. Under no circumstances should student share or swap
facial coverings. To learn more about appropriate face covering use and the types of face
coverings recommended for use in schools, please review pages 28 and 29 of the District’s
Reopening Guide Reopening Guide-English
5. All student facial coverings must meet the requirements of the Code of Student Conduct
and Policy 5511, Dress Code and School Uniform. Face coverings are apparel/accessory
and must not include obscene, profane, drug-related, gang-related, or inflammatory
messages or pictorial graphics. Face coverings which include inappropriate language that
could be perceived as offensive, derogatory, threatening, or intimidating are strictly
prohibited. Repeated display of such face coverings will constitute disciplinary measures
as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.
6. Refusal to wear a face covering after directed to comply by an authority figure will
constitute defiance of school personnel and/or disruptive behavior pursuant to the Code
of Student Conduct. Continuous refusal to comply may result in a student being assigned
to online or remote learning. Developmental ages and intellectual, developmental, and
behavioral disabilities must be duly considered by the principal, as appropriate.
7. Students participating in extracurricular activities, such as athletics, musical or theatrical
performances, where the wearing of facial coverings is not practicable or may create a
health risk, will be directed by their teacher, coach, or advisor as to when facial coverings
may be removed during the activity such as swimming or high intensity activities where
breathing may be more difficult. However, students must continue to follow maximum
social distancing and all other safety procedures in place for the activity and must resume
wearing the facial covering when directed to do so.
8. Exemptions from the use of facial coverings must be requested directly to the school
principal. Supporting documentation for the any exemption will be required. Students
who have difficulty breathing, or sensory issues arising from a documented medical or
psychological issue, or students who have communication issues and may require the
teacher or service provider to see their mouth, may request an exemption from the
Principal. If appropriate, they may be asked to wear a clear facial covering or face shield.
Face shields must wrap around the sides of the wearer’s face and extend below the chin.
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Documentation from a medical provider must be on file and reviewed by staff before a
student will be excused from this facial covering requirement.
9. Facial coverings should not be required for anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated,
or otherwise unable to remove the facial covering without assistance.
Student Illness at School
If a student becomes ill or exhibits symptoms of COVID-19 while at school, the student will be
separated from other students and staff to the designated space identified as the school’s
Isolation Room. While in the Isolation Room, the student will be monitored by school staff.
Students must be picked up by a parent/guardian after initial illness identification. The District will
contact parents/guardians and, if needed, the student’s emergency contacts. Parents/guardians
and/or emergency contacts will be informed of the importance of the student being picked up for
the safety of the student and others.
Return to School
1. Students presenting with general illness symptoms that are non-COVID related will need
to remain home until they are symptom-free without the use of medication for 24 hours.
2. Students presenting with COVID-like symptoms, but no known COVID contact, are
required to remain home until they receive a negative COVID test OR are fever-free
without the use of medication for 24 hours AND have improved symptoms.
3. Students presenting with COVID-like symptoms, and have a known COVID contact, are
required to remain home until they are cleared from isolation or quarantine by a medical
professional AND they are fever free without the use of medication for 24 hours AND have
improved symptoms.
Parents and other Visitors
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, visitor access will be limited and restricted to the main
office. Visitors are not permitted to enter any District buildings under the following conditions:
1. The individual has any of the following symptoms: a temperature of 100.4 degrees or
higher; shortness of breath; cough; loss of taste or smell; muscle aches; weakness; chills;
nausea; vomiting; or any other symptoms of COVID-19;
2. The individual has tested positive for COVID-19;
3. The individual has been exposed to someone with symptoms of COVID-19;
4. The individual has been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
Any visitors that are permitted to enter District buildings will be subject to screening, must wear
a face covering and adhere to all District guidelines contained at MDCPS Reopening Website
,
CDC, FDOH, and local health department guidelines.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF ADDENDUM TO PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK
_______________________________ __________________
Student Name Student ID#
_______________________________ ___________________
School Homeroom
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I have read this Addendum to the 2020-2021 Parent/Student Handbook. I agree to abide by these
requirements, as well as any other applicable District guidelines, and understand that these
requirements are subject to change. In an effort to keep myself and my family safe from infectious
disease, specifically COVID-19, I will comply with these requirements.
Specifically, I understand that it is my personal responsibility to ensure that prior to boarding a
school bus or arriving at school, I have taken care to assess any potential symptoms of my child,
to take my child’s temperature, and to ensure that there is no appearance of illness that would
warrant my child staying home from school. I acknowledge that this is my responsibility and that
for the safety of my school community, I must comply with these policies.
______________________________________ ___________________
Student Signature Date
______________________________________ ___________________
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
