THE ISLAMIC ACADEMY FOR PEACE PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK · 2016-02-05 · THE ISLAMIC ACADEMY FOR...

THE ISLAMIC ACADEMY FOR PEACE

PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

125 Oakland Avenue

Methuen MA 01844

Phone: 978-975-7335 Fax: 978-975-3207

www.theislamicacademy.com

"Policies described in the addendum “Code of Conduct” will supersede any conflicting policies in the Disciplinary Policy section of the parents, or staff handbooks."

http://www.theislamicacademy.com/

TIA Handbook Rev 4/2014 of 40

Table of Contents

Admission Requirements ...................................................................................................11

New Students .................................................................................................................... 11

Returning Students ............................................................................................................ 12

Withdrawal ........................................................................................................................ 12

Immunizations................................................................................................................... 12

General Procedures ............................................................................................................13

Arrival Times & Procedures ............................................................................................. 13

After School Dismissal ..................................................................................................... 13

Checking Out During the School Day .............................................................................. 14

Absences, Tardies, & Attendance ..................................................................................... 14

Absence – Long Term Special Requests .......................................................................... 14

Standardized Test .............................................................................................................. 15

Inclement Weather Closing............................................................................................... 15

Communication Procedures .............................................................................................. 15

Field Trips ......................................................................................................................... 16

Fundraising Events............................................................................................................ 16

Lost and Found ................................................................................................................. 16

Lunch & Snack ................................................................................................................. 16

Lunches – (Forgotten) ...................................................................................................... 17

Open House/Projects Day ................................................................................................. 17

Orientation/Training ......................................................................................................... 17

Parent/Teacher Conferences ............................................................................................. 17

Parking Safety Regulations ............................................................................................... 17

Professional Development Days / Early Release Days..................................................... 18

Reward System ................................................................................................................. 18


Telephone Messages ......................................................................................................... 18

Textbooks .......................................................................................................................... 18

Transportation ................................................................................................................... 18

Walkers ............................................................................................................................. 19

School Uniform Policy ......................................................................................................19

School Uniform Policy ..................................................................................................... 19

Health Policy ......................................................................................................................21

Physical ............................................................................................................................. 21

Emergency Medical Authorization ................................................................................... 21

Allergies ............................................................................................................................ 21

Injuries/Illness/Medication/Rashes ................................................................................... 21

Medication ........................................................................................................................ 22

Guidelines for Administering Medications In School ...................................................... 23

Emergency, Safety and Security Procedures .....................................................................24

Fire Drills .......................................................................................................................... 24

Guidelines for Care of Injuries ......................................................................................... 24

Student Welfare-Child Abuse Policy ................................................................................ 24

Toys/Personal Property ..................................................................................................... 24

Visitors .............................................................................................................................. 25

Volunteers ......................................................................................................................... 25

Code of Conduct ................................................................................................................26

Guidelines for Parent – Staff Interaction .......................................................................... 26

At All Times Students Shall… ......................................................................................... 27

In School, Students Will…. .............................................................................................. 27

On the Playground, Students Will… ................................................................................ 27

Procedures and Consequences ...........................................................................................28


Warning System for Preschool - Grade 3 ......................................................................... 28

Warning System for Grades 4 - 8 ..................................................................................... 28

Office Visits with the Principal ......................................................................................... 28

Explanation of Corrective Measures: ................................................................................ 29

In-school Service .............................................................................................................. 29

In-school Suspension ........................................................................................................ 29

Suspension ........................................................................................................................ 29

Expulsion Procedures........................................................................................................ 30

Grievance Policy ............................................................................................................... 30

Explanation of Offenses .................................................................................................... 30

Addendum ..........................................................................................................................33

Anti-Bullying Policy ......................................................................................................... 33

DISCIPLINE CODE ..........................................................................................................34


The Islamic Academy for Peace

A Garden Of Knowledge for Today and Tomorrow, Building Righteous Leaders For Our

Community

Welcome to the Islamic Academy for Peace!

The principal, staff, Board of Directors, School Committee, Parent Teacher Organization, and

volunteers would like to wish you and your child(ren) a productive and successful year with the school.

The Islamic Academy For Peace is a private Islamic school located in Northern Massachusetts.

The Islamic Academy For Peace has been approved as a private school under the guidelines of the

Department of Education of Massachusetts and accredited by the New England Association of Schools

and Colleges, Inc.

Philosophy

Statement of Mission

“The Islamic Academy for Peace seeks to provide a foundation of academic excellence

and Islamic values that enables young Muslims to become Righteous Leaders for the

community.”

Philosophy of the Islamic Academy for Peace:

The aim of the Islamic Academy For Peace is to provide our children with an “Islamic

identity” and a high quality education. This includes state-of-the-art training in physical and

social sciences while inculcating the values that make individuals good human beings and useful

members of society. While The Islamic Academy For Peace prepares students to excel in

meeting the challenges of a scientifically and technologically advanced world, it also takes

special care to attend to their social and spiritual needs. Through an Islamic education, which

stresses discipline in one’s individual and social life, The Islamic Academy For Peace instills in

students the highest standards of values, morals, etiquette and drive for excellence in all phases

of daily life.

At the Islamic Academy for Peace faculty, staff and administrators continuously strive to achieve

these objectives:

1. Lead students to strive for excellence in all that they do (in every aspect of their life)

2. Teach (Encourage) a love for Islam by example and through Islamic and Quran studies

3. Practice Islam by demonstration

4. Prepare students to meet worldly demands and to achieve success

5. Teach students social awareness and social responsibility through active participation in

causes and programs that improve the community

6. Educate children holistically ─ physically, spiritually, intellectually and emotionally

7. Teach by example the concept of “faith with action”


8. Encourage the love of Quran and teach the Arabic language through classroom

instruction

Members of the Community

Role of the Administration

The administrators of The Islamic Academy for Peace, establish the environment when they:

1. Ensure provide high quality education in the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of

the Prophet. Peace and blessings be upon him.

2. Maintain Islamic values and morals that help students grow up to be good moral citizens

3. Help provide a high quality education in physical and social sciences

4. Create a safe environment for all students

5. Ensure that emphasis be placed on values, etiquette and discipline

6. Keep the lines of communication open between the parents, teachers and the

administration

7. Provide the best qualified teachers available

8. Choose the best available text and reference books

9. Provide the best possible learning environment

10. Evaluate the staff on a regular basis

Role of Teachers

Teachers and staff, under the leadership of the principal, maintain order in the school and

are expected to hold everyone to the highest standard of respectful and responsible behavior. As

role models, staff upholds these high standards when they:

1. Help students work to their full potential and develop their self-worth

2. Maintain consistent standards of behavior for all students

3. Demonstrate respect for all students, staff and parents

4. Prepare students for the full responsibility of citizenship

5. To be in class before the students arrive

6. Be prepared for class

7. Correct and return all assignments within a reasonable time

8. Respect the child’s physical and emotional needs

9. Keep the parents informed on their child’s progress

10. Return parents’ phone calls within a reasonable time


Role of Parents

Parents play an important role in the education of their children and have a responsibility

to support the efforts of staff in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment for all

students. Parents fulfill this responsibility when they:

1. Become familiar with the Code of Conduct and school policies

2. Encourage and assist their children in following the rules of behavior

3. Assist school staff in dealing with disciplinary issues

4. Show an active interest in their child’s school work and progress

5. Communicate regularly with the school

6. Read all notices sent home

7. Sign and send notices back on time

8. Help their child(ren) be neat, appropriately dressed and prepared for school

9. Ensure that their child(ren) arrive and are picked up at school on time

10. Promptly report to the office their child(ren)’s absence or late arrival

11. Provide their child(ren) with the tools necessary for success in school

12. Provide their child(ren) with a healthy breakfast in the morning and send a healthy snack

and lunch for school

13. Do not send a sick child to school

Role of the School Committee

The School Committee is the governing body of The Islamic Academy For Peace. The

School Committee consists of members as stated in the school By-Laws. It is responsible for

setting policy. Parents may contact the School Committee via email on the school’s website at

www.theislamicacademy.com, in writing through the school’s main office or by mail at:


P.O. Box 2225

Methuen, MA 01844

Board Members: Br. Saban Catalbas (President), Dr. Javed Siddiqi (Vice President), Br.

Louqmane Tidjani

Chair of School Committee: Br. Waqar Ahmad ([email protected])

Finance Director: Br. Rashid Khan

School Committee members: Br. Alaa Aboumahmoud, Br. Mutasim Elfahal, Br., Br. Abubakr

Siddiq, and Br. Aniss Loughlam, and Br. Ubaidu


Role of the Board of Directors

The Board of Directors oversees that the mission of the school is being fulfilled. They appoint

and dismiss the School Committee members.

School Disciplinary Committee

The Disciplinary Committee hears grievances regarding school disciplinary actions that

are not resolved by the teachers and principal. The Committee also periodically reviews and sets

disciplinary policies.

PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

The Islamic Academy encourages the participation of parents in the continuous

development and growth of the school. Parents have been indispensable partners of the school

since its inception. They have contributed a tremendous amount of time, effort, and money to

ensure that their children receive a good and wholesome education. The PTO is a Parent

Teacher Organization that holds monthly meetings. It helps the administration in organizing

programs and other activities for the students such as weekly pizza lunch, BBQ, Field Day, Eid

parties, School fundraising dinners, sports events, and many others.

Location

The school is presently located at 125 Oakland Avenue, Methuen, MA 01844. Below is an

area map showing major streets around the location.


School mailing address/ Phone Numbers:


125 Oakland Avenue

Methuen, MA 01844

School main Office: (978) 975-7335

Finance Office: (978) 975-3553

School fax: (978) 975-3207

Directions:

Coming from the South Coming from the North

Take I-93 North, toward New Hampshire Take I-93 South, toward Boston

Take Exit 46 – Rt. 110-113 Take Exit 46 – Rt. 110-113

Enter the rotary just following Exit 46 Enter the rotary following Exit 46

Take the East Exit to Rt. 110-113 Go around the rotary to East Exit to Rt.,110-

113

Stay left at the fork onto 113 East Stay left at the fork onto 113 East

Drive about 1 mile on East 113 Drive about 1 mile on East 113

Go through three sets of lights Go through three sets of lights

Turn right onto Arnold St. Turn right onto Arnold St.

Go one and a half blocks Go one and a half blocks

Turn right into the alleyway leading to the school Turn right into the alleyway

leading to the school


Admission Requirements

New Students

Admission to the Islamic Academy for Peace is open to all students in Preschool - 3 years

of age to 8th

grade. The school does not discriminate in enrollment on the basis of race, age, sex,

religion, or national origin. However, we reserve the right to decline admission to students for

the following reasons, which are not considered inclusive of all reasons justifying denial of

admission: students whose needs we cannot accommodate; and students who require English as a

Second Language beyond the purview of the school’s capability or capacity.

The recommended ages for our admissions are as follows:

Pre-School: 3 years of age on October 31.

KG student: 5 years of age on October 31.

1st grade: 6 years of age on October 31, successful completion of Kindergarten or passing

our screening test.

Applicants who meet the recommended cut-off date will be given priority. However, younger

applicants may be considered if seats are available and they pass the screening.

Enrollment opens during the month of March and continues until all available spots are filled in a

given grade. Priority in enrollment is as follows:

1. Current TIA students, their siblings, and staff kids: January 06 to January 17th, 2014

2. Community Registration Day/date: January 20, 2014

3. Books and supplies & sports due per students for Prek3-Prek4 and KG: April 30, 2014

4. Financial-Aid applications: May 1st -June 2nd

, 2014

5. Books and supplies & sports due for everyone: June 2, 2014

In order for a new student to be considered a fully registered student at The Islamic Academy

For Peace, the following must be on file at the school:

Completed and signed registration form

Copy of Student’s birth certificate or passport

Completed Medical Form, including an immunizations record signed by the student’s

physician

Signed Financial Agreement for tuition and assessment

Fees for Registration and for books and supplies in addition ot the first tuition installment

Signed review form that the parents have read and will abide by the policies included in

the Parent-Student Handbook

Placement test for new students

a. Preschool and kindergarten applicants will meet with teachers for a screening


b. Applicants for grade 1 - 8 will meet with teachers for an interview and written

screening

Copies of all the student’s academic records if applicable or a signed release letter

requesting the student’s academic records from the previous school

Copies of student’s standardized exams for the past two years if applicable

Students can attend school after they submit all forms and fulfill the financial obligations

The decision of a student’s admission will be communicated in writing via a formal admission

statement sent home. A student will be allowed to attend classes only after he/she is fully

registered in the school. The school reserves the right to deny or revoke admission to students if

records show that false or misleading information has been provided on the application forms.

Returning Students

Due to the limited number of seats available and the desire of many families to join The

Islamic Academy For Peace, parents of returning students must complete and sign the Re-

enrollment form sent by the school and pay the full registration fee by February 28. Failure to do

so may result in loss of enrollment privileges for the family for the following school year.

In order for returning students to be fully registered, the following must be on file at school:

Completed and signed re-enrollment form with the $100.00 registration fee

Deposit of $425.00 (All sports, book and supplies fees) by June 15

Signed Financial Agreement for tuition and assessment

Current health record from the child’s physician

In case a child is denied admission to the school, the parents can appeal in writing to the School

Board:


Board of Directors

P.O. Box 2225

Methuen, MA 01844

Withdrawal

Students who withdraw prior to the beginning of the school year, after being fully

registered, will lose their deposit (including all registration, book, and supplies fees). Students

who withdraw after school begins will also be responsible for tuition until the end of the month

in which the withdrawal occurred. It is important to note that after 12:00 noon on 12/23/14,

parents are financially responsible for the FULL yearly tuition.

Immunizations

All incoming students are required to have a complete physical and immunization record

on file prior to the opening of school. School personnel will check that every student meets the

Massachusetts Department of Public Health requirements for immunization. Certificate of


Health Examination sheets will not be accepted without doctor’s signature along with the phone

number and address of the physician. Parents who have religious reservation on vaccines must

provide that in writing.

General Procedures

School Hours: 7:40 am – 3:00 pm

Arrival Times & Procedures

Students arrive between 7:40 am and 7:55 am. Students arriving before 7:40 am should wait

in their cars. They should not be left unattended. The school will not be responsible for

children arriving before 7:40 am.

School begins with the assembly promptly at 8:00 am.

Students arriving after 8:00 am will be marked tardy.

After 8:00 am, parents or designated person should accompany their child(ren) to the front

office and sign in students in the tardy log. Once signed in, students should proceed directly

to their classes.

Late students due to traffic are not excused.

Late due to accident in the road is excused. We take parents word on that

Sickness over 2 days need a note from doctors and if there is no doctor involved written

excuse from parents.

After School Dismissal

The following procedures have been designed as safety precautions. Please help us maintain

these practices.

Teachers will prepare students for a prompt 3:00 pm dismissal time.

Students will remain in their classrooms and must be supervised until they are called for

dismissal.

Parents, or designated person, are kindly requested not to enter the school building to pick

up their children.

Children will not be allowed to re-enter the building or school property once they have

been released.

Children released to their parents or designated person are fully returned to the custody of

their parents or designated person, who therefore are solely responsible for the care and

supervision of their children.

Parents or designated person, are solely responsible for their child(ren)’s behavior and

safety once they have been released.

Use of the playground is not allowed during dismissal. Families who wish to use the

playground may return after 3:30 pm.

If a student is to be picked up by someone other than a parent, the parents should inform

the school in writing with the name and child’s relationship to that person.

Students should be picked up by 3:00 pm. There will a charge of $5.00 for every 15

minutes after 3:30 pm per child.


Checking Out During the School Day

Whenever possible, the school should be notified ahead of time in writing that a student

needs to be released early.

Students will be given an early release form so teachers may prepare their work.

Students will be sent to the office for early release.

Parents must go to the office to sign out and collect their child.

During the school day, a child will not be released to anyone whose name is not indicated

on the student’s Authorization for Child Release Form on file or another written

permission slip.

Absences, Tardies, & Attendance

The Islamic Academy For Peace’s educational program is organized on the assumption

that students will attend regularly and punctually. Regular and prompt attendance is necessary in

order for a student to progress satisfactorily. Attendance is taken daily and reported at the end of

the marking period. Parents keeping their children home at the first signs of illness may prevent

longer absences.

Upon returning to school, a written note from the parent should be presented to the office to

show the cause of absence. Please report your child’s absence to the main office. You may

also email the teacher.

Late/Tardy: Any time a student’s arrival interrupts assembly or the instructional program,

she/he is considered late. Therefore, any student arriving after 8:00 am is late and must

report to the office with their parent or designated person where she/he will sign in and be

marked tardy.

Every time a student is tardy will be permanently noted on the report card.

When a child is absent or late for any reason:

Parents are to call the main office on the first and each consecutive day of absence. Please

call by 9:00 am. Give the student’s name, grade, teacher’s name and date.

If you are aware of upcoming medical appointments, or other reasons for absence or

lateness, you may send a note. Parents are strongly encouraged to schedule appointments

outside school hours whenever possible.

Early dismissal on medical grounds and in emergency situations will be granted on

parents’ written request or by phone call at least one hour prior to dismissal. The office

will inform the student’s teacher(s). Teachers can never dismiss the child from the

classroom without the office approval. Parents must pick up the child from the office in

such a case. If the student returns to school that day, parents must sign the student in

through the office again.

In case of an extended leave, for example due to an illness, parents must inform the school

in writing.

Absence – Long Term Special Requests

For rare special circumstances, students in Preschool through Grade 8 may make a

special written request to be absent for an extended period of time (longer than five consecutive

school days) for non-medical reasons. Parents must make a formal written request and sign a


contract with the school administration and the student’s teachers regarding the completion of

student work during this timeframe. All major writing projects, reports, and exams must be

completed within one week of the student’s return to school.

Teachers will provide a brief outline of the topics to be covered during the student’s

absence along with the texts and basic curriculum material. Any supplementary materials used

during the student’s absence will not be provided. Upon the student’s return, teachers will

correct only certain select assignments. Teachers will not be required to review explicit

information covered in class during the student’s absence.

Parents are responsible for seeing that their child completes the required reading and

curriculum assignments so that everything is ready to be turned in upon the student’s return to

school.

The student will be graded on the curriculum assignments as well as major projects and

exams. His/her grade will be reflected in the subsequent grade report.

Standardized Test

If standardized test is conducted during absence of a student, students who were absent

must take it after they come back. No standardized test to be given before the actual schedule for

the whole school.

**Such requests for extended leave from school are not always granted.

Inclement Weather Closing

In case of inclement weather, school will either be closed or delayed. The Islamic Academy

For Peace follows the same schedule as the Methuen Public Schools. The information on a

particular day when such happening is expected can be obtained by the following:

Listening to local radio and television stations for information regarding the Methuen

Public School District.

Checking the school website after 6:30 am at www.theislamicacademy.com

Calling the school after 6:30 am.

There are 5 “emergency days” (inclement weather, city emergency, etc.) already built into the

school year. If more than 5 days are used for emergency purposes, the school will extend the

academic year up to a maximum of two additional days.

Communication Procedures

All school staff can be reached through the school’s main office (978-975-7335). Parents

may leave a message for any staff member. The administration will not interrupt a class to

deliver a message, except in emergencies. Teachers are not allowed to confer with parents

during class time under any circumstances. Parents may make an appointment to meet with

their child’s teacher at any time during the school year. All classroom visits must be arranged in

advance with the child’s teacher(s).

Parents are encouraged to keep up with their child’s academic progress and to attend all

orientations and meetings announced by the school. They are also encouraged to read the school

publications, especially the weekly parent reminders, monthly class calendars and school

newsletters.

The school will abide by court decisions regarding communication with non-custodial parents. It

is the responsibility of the custodial parent to inform the school of the existence of a court order


regarding their children. Such notification by the custodial parent must be in writing and a copy

of the court order must be provided to the school.

If a parent has a concern regarding his/her child, the parent must follow the lines of

communication listed below:

First, speak directly with the child’s teacher

Second, if the concern is not adequately addressed, contact the school office to make an

appointment with the teacher and the principal

Third, if there are still unresolved issues, contact the school office to make an

appointment with the teacher, principal, and School Committee.

Field Trips

In keeping with the philosophy that the education of our children is not limited to the

classroom, teachers have arranged field trips that augment and enrich our school curriculum. It

is our goal that all students participate in at least two field trips a year. School personnel will

provide the best possible supervision of your child on a field trip. However, the school shall not

be held liable for any injury or misfortune that may occur on a field trip.

Parents must complete and return permission slips to the teacher responsible for the field

trip by the deadline date.

Parents must also pay all required fees by the deadline date.

The school may request the presence of the parent on the field trip in order for their child

to be allowed to participate in the trip.

The school may also deny a student the privilege of a field trip due to disciplinary concerns.

Chaperones will be requested. However, since many parents desire to participate,

chaperones will be selected on a rotational basis.

Fundraising Events

Fundraising is vital to support our school programs. Parents are asked to help participate

in our spring fundraising event. Parents can assist in organizing the event, selling tickets and

attending the events.

Lost and Found

All articles found on the grounds or in the building will be put in the lost and found

basket. Smaller or high value items, which are turned in, are kept in the office. Please label your

child’s articles and check the lost & found basket periodically.

Lunch & Snack

The school is not able to provide lunch, snacks, or microwave service at this time

Students must bring their own lunch and snacks as well as their own utensils

There is no sharing of food among students on a daily basis


No soda, candy, gum or chocolate is permitted. If found, these items will be held until

the end of the day

A pizza lunch is provided by the PTO on Fridays at a minimal cost (details are

communicated to parents within the first week of school)

Parents should notify the staff if their child has any food or other allergies

Lunches – (Forgotten)

Lunches that are forgotten at home should be brought directly to the office. They should

be marked with the child’s name and grade. Please be sure to tell your student to check in the

office any time they do not have their lunch.

Parents must drop off any personal items for their children in the main office. Office staff will

deliver those items to the child as soon as possible without disrupting the educational process.

The school is not equipped to provide food for students who forget their lunch. Please make

all effort to ensure your child has lunch and snack every day.

Open House/Projects Day

Parents are invited to visit classrooms several times throughout the year during our fall

and spring Open House days. In addition, there are several scheduled project days where

students’ special work will be on display.

Orientation/Training

All students and their parents are required to attend an orientation session prior to the

start of the school year. Parents will meet teachers and staff, review school policies and pay fees.

Training will be provided as necessary and PowerPoint of new policy and school procedures will

be provided to the parents at the beginning of the school year. Parents who do not attend are still

responsible to seek the information of any new school addendums.

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parents are asked to schedule conferences with their child(ren)’s teachers at the end of the

first and third marking periods. This provides an opportunity to find out more specific

information about a student’s progress and the class in general. Parents are not limited to these

two conferences. They may make appointments to speak with a teacher as the need arises.

Please schedule an appointment through the office. Teachers are not allowed to confer with

parents during class time under any circumstances.

(For further information, please see the Guidelines for Parent Staff Interaction in the Code of Conduct

Section.)

Parking Safety Regulations

School rules apply while children are on school property

The speed limit is 5 mph in the parking lot

Parents must observe the one-way entrance and exit


Parents must park their cars in the parking area while dropping off their children

Children should be accompanied by an adult at all times

Professional Development Days / Early Release Days

Several days have been scheduled throughout the year for staff meetings and professional

development. Students will not be in school during these days. The Islamic Academy for Peace

reserves the right to cancel school for up to two (2) additional Professional Development days (to

be announced later) during the academic year if the need arises.

Reward System

The Islamic Academy for Peace acknowledges the importance of rewarding students who

abide by the school rules. Aside from the honor roll, which includes academic merit, at their

discretion, teachers may determine rewards that include but are not limited to:

Provide stickers and/or other motivational items

Ice Cream/Popcorn Party

Student of the Week/Month

Classroom Newsletter Recognition

Principal special awards for behavioral improvement.

Telephone Messages

Our goal is to make the best possible use of all teaching time. It is necessary that all calls

to teachers or students come through the office. Messages will be taken and placed in the

teacher’s mailbox. Unless there is an emergency situation, classes will not be interrupted for

messages to students or calls to teachers.

Only in case of emergency, students may go to the office and get permission from the office

administrator before using the phone.

Textbooks

Textbooks supplied by The Islamic Academy for Peace will be issued to students in

grades 1 – 8. This is a lease for the period that students use the textbooks. All textbooks should

be treated as leased property. Workbooks and other consumable property will be released to the

student at the end of the year.

In addition, students in (all grades) may rent a second copy of the math, science,

literature, and social studies textbooks for a total cost of $25 per year on a first-come-first-served

basis. All textbooks must be returned to the school office before June 12, 2012.

In the event of loss or abuse of leased books, whether accidental or purposeful, students

must pay for the book(s) in accordance with the fee set by the school. Parents will be given a

letter at the end of school year for accountability purposes. Payments are made in the office and a

receipt of payment will be issued. Teachers are not to collect money for lost or damaged books.

Transportation

The school will provide no transportation. Parents should make their own arrangements

for carpooling.


Walkers

Students in grades 6 through 8 may walk to and/or from home provided their parents fill

out and sign the Authorization to Release Student as Walker form. The Academy will not be

responsibility of any hazard related to walking to and/or from the school.

Students who want to walk to the Masjid must have permission in writing and it has to

state “the Masjid”. Any permission from the Masjid must be provided if needed.

School Uniform Policy

The Islamic Academy for Peace requires students to wear a school uniform. Students and

their parents should consider seriously their responsibility to adhere to the uniform policy and to

maintain the conditions of the uniform code. In doing so, they are reflecting pride in themselves

and in the school. Students are expected to report to school each day wearing the required

uniform. Parents are expected to make sure that each of their children is in compliance with the

school dress code. If students are not wearing the required uniform, parents may be obliged to

bring the appropriate articles of clothing to school. Any student in violation of the school

uniform policy may lose their recess till a signed policy is returned to the school office.

Some suggested brand names including Arrow, French Toast (www.frenchtoast.com). The

Uniform can be purchased through a number of local stores such as Target, Walmart, Sears or

Kmart etc.

The following must be observed:

School Uniform Policy

The Islamic Academy requires students to wear a school uniform. Students and their

parents should consider seriously their responsibility to adhere to the uniform policy and to

maintain the conditions of the uniform code. If students are not wearing the required uniform,

parents may be obliged to bring the appropriate articles of clothing to school. Any student with 3

violation of the school uniform policy may lose their recess.

Some suggested brand names including Arrow, French Toast (www.frenchtoast.com).

The Uniform can be purchased through a number of local stores such as Target, Walmart, Sears

or Kmart etc.

http://www.frenchtoast.com/

http://www.frenchtoast.com/


Personal Hygiene: Students must appear clean, having faced and hands washed, teeth

brushed, hair combed, fingernails trimmed and clean.

Uniforms: Students are expected to maintain their uniforms throughout the day. (No mud

spills, etc. For this purpose, students are encouraged to keep an extra uniform at school.

Deodorant: Students in Grades 6-8 are highly encouraged to wear unscented

antiperspirant. It is not permissible for students to wear perfume.

Hair: Students must have regular haircuts. No designs or layer haircuts will be allowed.

Also students must have natural hair color. No bleaching or “off” colors are allowed.

Make-up and Nail Polish: Students are not allowed to wear make-up, perfume, or nail polish.

Uniform for Boys Pre-K - Grade 8 Uniform for Girls Pre-K - Grade 8

Only Solid white button-down shirt, polo or

collared shirts

Navy blue dress pants (No cargo pants)

Solid white or Navy sweaters may be worn

inside the class (optional)

Black Dress Shoes

Black or White Socks

Only Solid Black or White Sneakers

(Sneakers with wheels not allowed. Shoes

must have less then a 1-inch heel).

On gym days only: students may wear plain

navy blue sweat pants (white stripes are

permissible, but no other colors are

accepted)

Navy or white sweaters may be worn inside

the class.

Preschool and KG students (Boys and Girls)

must have shoes with Velcro. And Pants

preferably with elastic waistband.

Only Solid plain white or navy Hijab. Must for

G3-G8.(Prek thru Grade 2 to be worn for

Salah/Prayer)

Solid white long sleeves button-down shirt

(G3-G8) Short sleeves are allowed for PreK-

G2.

Navy blue jumper to be worn below the knees

over navy blue dress pants.

Navy Blue Dress Pants. Leggings are allowed

for only PreK-G2.

Navy or white sweaters may be worn inside

the class.

Black Dress Shoes

Black or White Socks

Only Solid Black or White sneakers (Sneakers

with wheels are not allowed). (Shoes must

have less than a 1-inch heel).

On gym days only: students may wear plain

navy blue sweat pants (white stripes are

permissible, but no other colors are accepted)

Any color Jacket or Coat may be worn outside

the school during recess and gym.


Jewelry: Only small earrings are allowed. Boys may wear watches but are otherwise not

allowed to wear jewelry.

Health Policy

Physical

Each student must have a medical record on file in the office by the first day of school.

All new students must have their immunization record on file within two weeks after the start of

school and their medical record completed by a physician within 30 days of the first day of

school.

Emergency Medical Authorization

The Emergency Medical Authorization must be signed by a parent and on file in the

office by the first day of school. This form gives the school staff the parent’s work number(s) as

well as emergency contacts in the event of an injury or illness. If the student is receiving routine

medications, it is important that they be noted on this form. In the event of an emergency, the

form will accompany the student to the hospital for treatment. In signing this form, parents

authorize the school personnel to call the student’s physician and/or have the student transported

to an emergency room if necessary in an emergency situation.

Allergies

In the interest of the student’s safety and health, the school expects parents to inform the

school of any allergies, especially those that may have life-threatening. Consultation with the

parents and possibly the physician may be necessary to ensure that a plan is in place to properly

care for the student in the event of a reaction. The parent is responsible for keeping the school

informed of any reactions or changes in the student’s medications or plan of care for a reaction.

Injuries/Illness/Medication/Rashes

In the interest of other students and staff, parents should keep students home if they have

any of the following: fever, vomiting, diarrhea, a rash of undetermined origin, or

symptoms of a cold such as frequent coughing or nasal drainage that make the student

unable to take care of him/herself.

A student should be free from fever, vomiting and/or diarrhea, without the assistance of

medication, for 24 hours before returning to school.

Keep children home who have has a Strep culture until your doctor indicates the results are

negative.


A child with chicken pox must stay home 7-10 days from the day the child breaks out or

until all lesions are dry. (Parents need to communicate with the teachers in order to obtain

all work materials.)

A child with Impetigo (a sore around mouth and nose area) can attend school only with the

permission of a doctor.

A child with Conjunctivitis (inflammation, drainage, itching and redness of eye) should be

seen by a doctor and must stay home for at least the first 24 to 48 hours.

A child with head lice must stay home until all nits are removed. (See Head Lice Handout)

(cutting the hair short is not a solution)

Notify the school immediately if your child develops a communicable disease.

If you have any questions about whether or not your child should attend school, please call

the school before bringing your child.

A child who exhibits any of the following symptoms will be removed from class. Parents

will also be notified and asked to come promptly for the student if the student exhibits any

of the following:

Mouth temperature of 99.6 or over.

Nausea, vomiting, earache, severe headache, spasm, or convulsion.

Evidence of a communicable disease (including head lice) or rash. All rashes must be

medically diagnosed and a note from the doctor indicating the student is non-contagious

must be brought to the office before a student will be readmitted.

Complaints on the part of the student of feeling ill, and/or where there is a history of the

student having been home the day before, or having felt ill before school.

Any severe accident, including a deep cut, tooth injury, possible fracture or dislocation, or

any accident requiring immediate medical attention or parent involvement.

A report form will be completed any time a student is injured or becomes ill during school

hours. Parents will be asked to sign the form at dismissal time. A copy will remain on file

in the school.

If any restriction of activity is necessary upon returning to school after an illness, please

send a note to the classroom teacher with the specific details. A student will be excused

from physical activities upon receipt of a written note from home.

Permanent or long-term gym excuses will require a physician’s statement.

Do not refer a child to school staff for a diagnosis or first aid for an illness, or injury that

has occurred at home.

Medication

No medication, including Aspirin/Tylenol may be administered by school personnel

without written approval from a physician or parent.

A release form has been included in your orientation packet for your convenience if you

find that your child will need to be on medication at school. Additional copies are

available in the school office. We recommend you take this form to your doctor

appointment any time you suspect that your child’s diagnosis may include the

administration of medication at school. All medication must be accompanied by Consent

to Administer Medication at School.


Medication must be sent in the original bottle or pharmacy container. Prescription

medication must state the doctor’s name, child’s name, date and directions.

Children are not permitted to have in their possession any medication while in class. All

medications are to be placed in our locked cabinet in the office. They are to be picked up

at the end of each school year.

A new medical form is needed each year, and with each medication. Medications not

picked up at the end of the school year will be disposed of.

Whenever possible, parents are urged to schedule medication when children are not in

school.

Guidelines for Administering Medications In School

The school administration may administer medication during school hours to students under

the following guidelines.

The medication must be prescribed by a licensed physician.

A written order for the prescribed medication, dosage, duration of dosage, and a

statement explaining the administration of the dosage and the possible side effects, signed

by the licensed physician, must be on file in the school’s office before the medication can

be given. A new form must be completed if a medication dosage is adjusted. In an

emergency, orders may be faxed from the licensed physician.

An authorized staff person may administer pills, capsules or liquid medication. The staff

MAY NOT administer any medications requiring injections or the use of syringes or

similar instruments except EpiPen. Care guidelines for diabetic students will be

determined on an individual basis.

Over-the-counter drugs may be given provided the parent has signed the Consent to

Administer Medication Form.

A statement signed by the parent or guardian-giving permission to the school

personnel/principal to administer prescribed medication must be on file in the school’s

office before medicine is given. Medication will not be given without this statement and

the licensed physician’s order on file.

In all cases, the parent must assume responsibility for the safe delivery of the medication

to the school. All prescribed medication must be in the original containers clearly marked

by the pharmacist with the student’s name, the dosage directions, physician’s name, and

the prescription number. The pharmacy will provide a second container for use at school

if asked.

The school’s personnel must keep medications in a locked place.


Emergency, Safety and Security Procedures

Fire Drills

In cooperation with the Methuen Fire Department, the school conducts several fire drills

throughout the year. Directions are posted in each classroom and rehearsed with students.

Guidelines for Care of Injuries

Injuries are inspected by the teacher. The student is kept under observation in the

classroom.

Minor cuts will be cleansed with saline and bandaged.

If the injury is serious enough or needs medical attention, the student is sent to the office.

Parents are notified of any student receiving a blow to the head whether it appears serious

or not.

The student’s name, injury, action, etc…, are recorded.

Incident reports will be completed by the attending staff and sent to the office the same

day the incident occurred.

The administrator who supervises dismissal will obtain the parent’s signatures and give

him/her a copy of the report.

Student Welfare-Child Abuse Policy

According to the Massachusetts state law, a staff member who has reasonable cause to

suspect that a student may be an abused or neglected child shall report such a case to the

Department of Children and Families (DCF). In such a situation, the staff member shall notify

the principal. The staff member and the principal will make a decision to inform DCF.

Traditional consideration of confidentiality shall not constitute grounds for failure to report such

cases. Abuse and neglect are defined by law but may generally be understood as follows:

Abuse: the non-accidental commission of any act by a caretaker upon a child under age

18 which causes, or creates a substantial risk of, physical or emotional injury; or

constitutes a sexual offense under the laws of the Commonwealth; or any sexual contact

between a caretaker and a child under the care of that individual. This definition is not

dependent upon location (i.e., abuse can occur while the child is in an out-of-home or in-

home setting.

Neglect: Failure by a caretaker, either deliberately or through negligence or inability to

take those actions necessary to provide a child with minimally adequate food, clothing,

shelter, medical care, supervision, emotional stability and growth, or other essential care;

provided, however, that such inability is not due solely to inadequate economic resources

or solely to the existence of a handicapping condition. This definition is not dependent

upon location (i.e., neglect can occur while the child is in an out-of-home setting).

Toys/Personal Property

Students should show respect for the property of the school and others at all times.


Toys (including electronic games, tape player radio, or any other battery operated toys)

should not be brought to school.

Violent toys such as toy weapons are not permitted in the school.

Skateboards and scooters are not permitted at school.

Please do not allow your child to bring items of great value.

Visitors

All visitors must use front door only to enter the building. For security, all visitors in the

school must register in the school office and wear a visitor’s badge before going to the

classrooms. Badges are to be returned to the school office before leaving.

Volunteers

The Islamic Academy for Peace welcomes volunteers who would like to serve the school.

All volunteers will need to complete a “CORI” form, available in the office. Volunteers must

obtain a visitor’s badge from the school office and return it when leaving the school.


Code of Conduct

Every aspect of our Islamic being revolves around the basic concepts of honor,

righteousness, and trust. Nurturing and upholding this spirit of honesty and trust is the

responsibility of every member of The Islamic Academy community– students, faculty, parents

and staff. Honorable and righteous actions must overcome desires of selfishness and unethical

conduct. Each member of the community is held to the high standards that Islam asks of all

Muslims and is expected to conduct him/herself in a respectful and responsible manner at all

times.

Guidelines for Parent – Staff Interaction

Parents are encouraged to constructively contribute to the school. If parents think that an

area needs improvement, they are welcome to suggest ways in which they, themselves,

may be able to assist. Suggestions should be placed in the Suggestion Box in the front

foyer, or mailed to one of the addresses listed in the front of this handbook.

Parents are obligated to review the materials sent by the teachers/administration with

students. Parents should respond promptly to communications sent with the students.

Parents can and should discuss matters regarding their child(ren) with their respective

teachers by following the proper lines of communication. Parents are encouraged to

schedule an appointment with the teacher. Impromptu discussions in hallways and in

parking lots are counter-productive, and burden the staff. They do not allow for the staff

to gather thoughts and focus correctly on giving the parents the full attention deserved.

All concerns should be discussed with the child’s teacher only; talking to other teachers

or administrative staff beforehand is inappropriate and will interfere with the resolution

of the concern.

The school offers one mandatory parent teacher conference, all parents are required to

attend this conference, and are encouraged to discuss all matters regarding their child.

Issues regarding policy, procedure, (discipline and/or curriculum) cannot be discussed

over the phone or via email. Such matters have to be discussed in person, after requesting

an appointment with the staff or the administration.

Staff may immediately terminate any discussion, meeting, or conference, if the parents use

abusive, inappropriate language or raise their voice in an impolite way. In such a case, the

staff will request the presence of the administration for further discussion with the involved

parents, or may request that any further communication be via written letters only.

If the teacher requests the intervention of the administration, the administration will then

intervene between the parents and the teacher in an attempt to resolve any issues in the

best possible manner.

If any discussion, meeting or conference with the administration shows to be neither

constructive nor productive in any way, the administration will immediately discontinue

the discussion and request the parents to continue their discussion via written letters only.

The administration will then only respond to written letters, and will not respond to

phone calls or e-mails from the parents involved.

The principal also reserves the right to terminate any meeting if she feels threatened or

harassed by the parents. If threatened or harassed, the principal reserves the right to ask

the parents to leave the school premises immediately.


The Disciplinary Committee also has the right to suspend or expel the child(ren) due to

the misconduct of the parents, and request all future interaction be done via written letters

only. Misconduct is defined as any action offensive, demeaning, abusive or threatening.

We emphasize that all of the above will not be necessary if we follow the Sunnah of

Prophet Mohammad, peace and blessings be upon him, by exercising patience, wisdom,

and respect for all. In doing so, we will become better Muslims and will help improve

the school, Insha Allah.

Behavioral Expectations of Students

The reason our students are at The Islamic Academy For Peace is to receive quality education.

Appropriate student conduct is essential, if effective education is to take place. Students who

misbehave will take away valuable instructional time. Our faculty and staff are committed to

providing an environment where all students learn with minimal disruption.

At All Times Students Shall…

Respect and obey teachers and staff.

Dress properly in accordance with the school uniform requirements.

Conduct themselves with discretion and modesty with others according to the Quran

and Sunnah.

Respect all public property and will not break, damage, or deface school property

including but not limited to the building, grounds, materials and furnishings.

Respect the personal property and school material of teachers and other students.

Respect the rights of fellow students and refrain from fighting, teasing, or name-

calling.

Use language that is free from vulgarity and profanity.

Use honesty in their words and deeds.

In School, Students Will….

Act in a way that doesn’t disrupt the teacher’s work or the learning of other students.

Walk, not run, in single-file in the hallways, and will remain quiet while in the

classrooms or in common areas.

Not grab, wrestle, tackle or hold other students.

Leave their desks and floor areas clean.

On the Playground, Students Will…

Stay within the designated playground area.

Use playground equipment properly and safely. Share the use of the equipment fairly

with other students.

Not use sticks, stones, or other material that may cause injury.

Line up quietly and quickly when recess is over.

Walk quietly in a single line to and from the playground.

Stand in the time out line, if the playground rules are not followed.

In Each Classroom, Students Will…

Stop! Look! And Listen!


Keeps their hands and feet to themselves.

Use indoor voices.

Be polite and courteous when allowed by the teacher to address each other.

**This list of rules will remain in each classroom as stated here, however, teachers

and students may add to the list as necessary.

Procedures and Consequences

From the beginning of the school year, each teacher works with her class to explain the

school-wide rules and expectations of behavior, and to clearly and thoroughly explain her own

classroom rules and procedures for misconduct. Throughout the year, students will receive

positive reinforcement for their appropriate behavior and clear, consistent consequences for their

inappropriate behavior.

We know that some misbehavior will occur; therefore, we ask for your support and your

trust in dealing with these situations as they arise during the year. Teachers expect parents to

help their children develop respect for the rights and property of others. You should initiate

contact with staff as needed and respond to our communications. You should support the teacher

and administration’s decisions regarding discipline, and follow through with the assignments or

corrective measures we send home. All of us want to be proud of our school; and, if we work

together, an atmosphere of trust and pride in the school will flourish.

Should a child disrupt the learning environment, assertive discipline will be practiced as follows:

The teacher will work directly with students toward solving problems in the classroom by

following an appropriate warning system designed for that particular grade level.

The teacher may consult with other teachers for suggestions.

If the problem continues after the teacher’s system is exhausted, the principal will be

asked to assist as outlined below.

Warning System for Preschool - Grade 3

The warning system for preschool through Grade 3 is determined by the homeroom teacher.

Warning System for Grades 4 - 8

1. First Warning, student’s name is written on the board.

2. Second Warning, a check is placed by the student’s name.

3. Third Warning, student receives a second checkmark by his/her name.

4. A student who has received a third warning in one week will be asked to stay after school

for detention.

Office Visits with the Principal

The vast majority of discipline problems will be dealt with at the classroom level. This type of

intervention should stop inappropriate behavior and teach each student to take responsibility for

his/her own actions. However, if the student’s misbehavior is frequent, flagrant or fails to elicit a


response of repentance, the offending student will be referred to the principal. Such a referral

must be considered a serious matter by the students and his/her parents.

1. The first time a student is sent to the principal, the visit will be followed by a meeting

with the parents, teacher, and principal.

2. If a student’s behavior is not modified and he/she is referred again to the principal, the

student will be placed on probation and the Disciplinary Committee will also be notified.

The family may be required to seek professional help or guidance for their child at their

own expense. The Disciplinary Committee may suspend or expel the student from the

school indefinitely.

The principal and the Disciplinary Committee shall consider the following factors in deciding

which corrective measure to apply:

The extent of the misconduct.

The inadvertent or the deliberate nature of the misconduct.

Whether the act in question is an isolated incident or part of repeated acts of misconduct.

Any other mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

Explanation of Corrective Measures:

The principal or Disciplinary Committee may apply the following corrective measures:

Verbal reprimand Loss of privileges

Assignment to school service Completion of written project

In-school suspension Restitution for property damage

Out of school suspension Behavior contract

Expulsion

In-school Service

A student may be required to serve the school by completing some chores around the building.

Service will be carefully supervised.

In-school Suspension

A student may be required to sit in the computer lab under staff supervision for a period of time

(1-2 days). Along with his/her regular class assignments, she/he will be required to complete a

written project.

Suspension

A student may be suspended for committing an honor offense or other severe disruption

of the education process. The student may not come to school or participate in school activities

while on suspension. The student will be required to complete a project before returning to

school. He/she may not make up any tests missed during suspension. The student must attend a

meeting with the principal before being re-admitted to class.


Expulsion Procedures

A student may be referred to the School Disciplinary Committee as a result of receiving an

indefinite suspension while on probation.

When a student is referred to the Disciplinary Committee for expulsion, the family will be

informed in writing that the student is placed on an open suspension. The reason for the

school’s action will be described in detail.

The Disciplinary Committee will hold a meeting to review the case within 10 business

days from the day of the indefinite suspension.

The student and his/her guardian will be invited to appear before the Disciplinary

Committee to present their case during that meeting.

The Disciplinary Committee will make a decision that will be conveyed to the parents in

writing within 10 business days.

The tuition of an expelled student will be forfeited as per the Tuition Policy & Agreement.

** Students on indefinite suspension may not return to school without a decision from the

Disciplinary Committee. They may not participate in any school activity or function

including field trips or after school events.

Grievance Policy

Parents may request a meeting with the principal regarding school related matters. The

Administrative Assistant will schedule the meeting as soon as possible. However, matters

concerning your child’s academic or behavior performance in the school must be discussed with

the classroom teacher first. If the matter is not addressed to your satisfaction, you may request to

meet the principal. Matters concerning general school rules, policy, or tuition may be brought to

the attention of the administration directly. If you believe that the staff and/or administration did

not address your concern, you may submit your concern to the Disciplinary Committee in

writing.

All grievances should be handled in the following manner:

6. First, try to resolve the situation with the teacher(s) or staff concerned.

7. Request a meeting with the principal.

8. Request a meeting with the Disciplinary Committee in writing indicating the concern.

The Disciplinary Committee may request further written clarification from the parents,

teacher(s) or principal. The Committee may further request a face-to-face meeting with

the parties involved prior to taking a decision.

Any decision taken by the Disciplinary Committee is final.

Explanation of Offenses

1. Gross insubordination toward faculty/staff member or adult

Students are expected to continually exhibit polite, considerate and respectful behavior

toward faculty and staff. Students showing gross disrespect and an argumentative, negative

attitude toward the faculty and staff will be considered in violation of the honor code.

2. Bullying:


Offensive words regarding race, gender, culture, religion, age will not be tolerated. A

safe environment is essential for the success of living and learning together. Any exchange of

words, notes, or body language that indicates intimidation is considered an offense. Students

are expected to restrain themselves in times of duress. Any student who physically or

verbally harms in any way another individual while on the school property or at a school-

related function is committing an offense.

3. Profane language

Any form of cursing, no matter the language in which it is spoken represents an honor

offense.

5. Lying

Students are expected to be honest in their words, actions and relationships. A lie is any

misrepresentation of facts as the student knows them, whether made verbally, in writing or by

a non-verbal indicator, i.e., a head motion.

6. Slander/gossip

Slander and gossip occur when an individual or group of individuals purposely fabricates

information about another person with the intent of harming that individual’s reputation in the

community. However, should a student feel that he/she is a victim of slander or gossip, the

responsibility is upon his/her shoulders to prove that the act was both fabricated and discussed

with the intent of harming the victim’s reputation.

7. Giving false testimony

Any student who witnesses an honor violation and lies about such knowledge when asked by

school staff will also be considered as a participant in the offense.

8. Stealing

Respect for the personal property of every individual is an essential principle upon which the

school community is based. Taking others’ belongings without permission is an offense of

the honor system and will be dealt with accordingly.

9. Cheating

Each student is expected to do his/her own work in all academic endeavors. Giving or

receiving help on academic work, unless permitted by the teacher, is considered cheating.

Cheating must be reported. A student using a cheat sheet, notes, an open book, etc., unless

permitted by the teacher, is considered to be receiving help. A student who is caught with

such items on their person during an exam is considered a cheater even if he/she did not have

the chance to use such an item. Students observed cheating will systematically receive a

grade of 0 (zero). This is irreversible.

10. Plagiarism

Plagiarism is the use of someone else’s idea or work without acknowledging the source of the

idea or work. All quotation, paraphrases, copying and adaptations from published or

unpublished sources must be acknowledged, as taught at the various grade levels. If a student

realizes that he/she has made a mistake in acknowledging sources in a paper already

submitted, he/she must make this fact known to the teacher immediately.

11. Vandalism


Respect for student, teacher, school and community property is expected from all students.

Vandalism is any damage, which decreases the value of the property. A student must pay

restitution for the damage of any school property.

12. Leaving the school without following proper procedures

The school is the legal guardian of each student under the age of 16 during school hours. As

such, any student leaving the school building without written permission from a parent and

without signing out from the office is committing an offense.

13. Electronic Devices at School

Radios, tape recorders, phones, beepers, games, or other electronic devices are not

permissible unless used as part of a class or project with permission from the principal. All

devices will be confiscated.

Students are not permitted to use the telephone unless it is an emergency, they have a pass

from their teacher, or they have permission from the office.

14. Toys and Other Objects at School

Toys and other personal objects are not permitted unless used as part of a class project or

Show & Tell. All Show & Tell items will be held with the teacher and returned at the end of

the day.


Addendum

Anti-Bullying Policy

1. INTRODUCTION

All children and young people have the right to a safe educational environment free from

harassment and bullying. This policy is implemented in partnership with the school’s discipline

policy and serves the entire school from grades PKG through 8th.

2. DEFINITION

Bullying is any behavior which is deliberately intended to hurt, threaten, frighten or discriminate

against another individuals or group. It is usually unprovoked, happens again and again as part of

a pattern of behavior and can continue for a long period of time. It always reflects the abuse of

power, with one (or more) person (s), a victim and the other, a bully. It is the acquisition of

power over others who are deemed powerless.

Bullying includes: Physical: Pushing, kicking, hitting, pinching and other forms of violence or

threats of violence. Verbal: Name calling, derogatory references to family name, sarcasm,

innuendos, spreading rumors, persistent teasing.

Emotional: Excluding, tormenting, ridicule, humiliation.

Intrusive: Email, video-text, text messaging, or electronic posting designed to upset or abuse.

Racist: Racial taunts, graffiti, gestures.

Sexual: Unwanted physical contact or abusive comments.

3. OUR GOALS

• Inform students and parents of our expectations in order to ensure a productive

partnership, where everyone has a role to play in stopping bullying.

• Maintain a community in which everyone feels valued and safe and where individual

differences are appreciated, understood and accepted.

• Promote a secure, happy, caring environment where kindness and helpfulness are

expected and respected.

• Praise and reward positive behavior which benefits others and the community as a whole

• Teach students to respect themselves and others and promote self-esteem

• Reduce the emotional and mental distress of any bullying and allow all students the right

to enjoy their time at school

4. STRATEGIES

• Help students through advice and counseling to make the right choices and not succumb

to peer pressure

• Listen to all parties involved in incidents and always take allegations from victims

seriously

• Reassure students that the school will do all in its power to protect and support all parties

involved while the issues are being resolved

• Foster by example the values we as a school believe in

"Policies described in the addendum “Code of Conduct” will supersede any conflicting policies in the Disciplinary Policy section of the parents, or staff handbooks."


• Investigate all incidents as fully as possible

• Use a range of strategies which challenge bullying behavior

• Include within the curriculum, opportunities to discuss and consider bullying and other

forms of anti-social behavior

• Identify bullying behavior at the early stages and work toward behavior modification

before the problem becomes more serious

5. REPORTING BULLYING

As a school we will:

• Encourage victims to REPORT BULLYING

As a school we will:

• Encourage victims and witnesses to speak up within anonymity if necessary

• Treat incidents seriously however trivial they may seem at first glance

• Be alert, as an entire staff, for changes in behavior, attitude and well-being and report

these changes immediately to the appropriate administrator.

6. RESPONDING TO BULLYING

As a school, we will strive to:

• Take all bullying problems seriously

• Deal with each incident individually and to access the needs of each student separately

• Regard all incidents as potentially serious and investigate them thoroughly

• Ensure that bullies and victims are interviewed separately

• Obtain witness information

• Keep a written record of the incident, investigation and outcomes

• Inform staff as necessary, about incidents

• Ensure that action is taken to prevent further incidents. Such action may include:

Imposition of sanctions

• Level 3 or 4 Infraction consequences

• Obtaining a sincere apology and informing parents of both the bully and the

• bullied

• Provide support for both victim and bully

DISCIPLINE CODE

Allah the Almighty says: “Surely Allah is Ever an All-Watcher over you.” (4:1)

The Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said: “The heaviest thing to be placed in

the balance of a believing slave on the Day of Judgment will be good behavior.” (Narrated by

Ahmad and Abu Dawud) “The most perfect person in his faith among the believers is one with

the best behavior.” (Narrated Ahmad and Abu Dawud) Al Hassan (may Allah be pleased with

him) said: “Good character is represented by a pleasant and delightful face, loving benevolence,

and stopping harm.”

RIGHTS OF STUDENTS

• All students whether they are on or off campus possess the same fundamental

constitutional rights as any other citizen of the United States of America except as limited

by law.

• Attend school unless removed due to disciplinary consequence

• Attend a school which is safe, secure and peaceful

• Enjoy the full benefit of their teacher’s effort, without interference from any disruptive

student and be informed of the school rules and regulations.


RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS

• To develop a sense of accountability to Allah (SWT)

• To be self-disciplined

• To abide by the teachings of Islam to develop Islamic character

• To help develop a sense of community within the school

• To attend school punctually and regularly in accordance with our Attendance Policy

• To pursue the required course of study and come to school prepared to work

• To conform to the regulations of the school policy and state law

• To obey promptly all the directions of the teacher and others in authority

• To be diligent in study and pay attention in class

• To be respectful to the teacher and others in authority

• To be kind and courteous to schoolmates

• To refrain from the use of profane and vulgar language

• To come to school clean and neat

• To observe health and safety standards

• To request help when needed

• To be tolerant of schoolmates regardless of differences

• To report information to school staff regarding the health and safety of the entire school

community

PARENTS RIGHTS

To teach their children to respect

the Islamic code of conduct,

school rules,

local, state and federal laws,

school property and the property of others,

their fellow students,

school personnel,

and community

• To help develop a sense of community within the school

• To transport students to school daily and on time

• To pick students up from school daily and on time

• To provide necessary study materials

• To provide a suitable environment for study at home

• To provide supportive action by ensuring that children have enough sleep, adequate

nutrition and appropriate clothing before coming to school

• Respond to any school communication when requested

• To provide the school with current information regarding legal address, phone,

medical data, and other facts which may help the school to serve their children

• To visit school periodically to participate in conferences with teachers, counselors

or administrators regarding the academic and behavioral status of their children

• To cooperate with the school by supporting school personnel in academic, social,

and other school programs

• To maintain consistent and adequate control over their children and to support

reasonable control measures as applied by school personnel

RIGHTS OF TEACHERS

• To expect and receive the attention, effort and participation of the students attending their

classes


• To have parental and administrative backing when enforcing rules designed to provide an

optimum learning climate

• To enjoy the same level of respect and courteous treatment accorded members of the

class individually and collectively

RESPONSIBILITIES OF TEACHERS

• To consider the personal worth of each individual student as a single, unique, important

human being, and establish an atmosphere in which productive learning can take place

• To attempt to equip each learner with the knowledge, skill, attitudes and values required

for successful living, and provide activities which increase self-esteem

• To assess divergent ideas, opinions and expressions objectively and deal with them in a

balanced, unbiased manner

• To consistently critique their own performance with the objective of an ever-growing

professional stature

• To keep parents and students informed via timely or periodic reports, including all

pertinent data related to the student’s school experience

• To initiated and enforce individual classroom rules consistent with school policies

• To teach the Islamic standards of behavior and to hold students accountable for their

actions at all times

RIGHTS OF ADMINISTRATORS

• To initiate such control measures as needed to establish and maintain an environment in

which optimum learning and teaching conditions prevail

• To make decisions on all issues confronting school, primarily on the basis of what is best

for the students

• To hold students accountable for their actions and to take prompt and appropriate action

toward those in violations

• To expect that all school employees recognize and fulfill their role in terms of campus

control

RESPONSIBILITIES OF ADMINISTRATORS

• To provide leadership that will establish, encourage and promote good teaching and

effective learning

• To provide support for teachers as they carry out their discipline responsibilities

• To establish, publicize and enforce school rules that facilitate effective learning and

promote attitudes and habits of good citizenship

• To make a determined effort to stay attuned to expressions of students, staff, parent, and

community concerns and to react with sensitivity toward them

• To communicate unverified student absences to parents

SCOPE OF THE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

The Student Code of Conduct is not intended to address the entire spectrum of student

misbehavior that may occur at school or on school property. Instead, it outlines a range of

appropriate responses for certain inappropriate behaviors. School administrators retain the

discretion to address student misconduct that is not specifically included in the policy. However,

poor academic achievement is not considered an act of misconduct. Therefore, the Discipline

Policy may not be used to discipline students for poor academic progress or failure to complete

assignments.

ENFORCEMENT OF STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT


• During regular school hours

• Before and after school hours

• During school sponsored events and activities

• During any school sponsored events or activities

• On school property

• While using the school network or any computer or information technology devices

• When the action of a student affect the mission or operation of the school

The Student Code of Conduct provides a variety of interventions and consequences to address

student misconduct that ranges from the least severe to the severest. Before any intervention or

consequence is issued, administrators shall consider all mitigating circumstances that include,

but are not limited to the following:

• The student’s age, health, maturity, and academic placement

• The student’s prior conduct and record of behavior

• The student’s attitude

• The level of parent/guardian cooperation and /or involvement

• The student’s willingness to make restitution

• The seriousness of the offense

• The student’s/parent’s willingness to participate in professional counseling.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

• Disciplinary consequences are not intended to hinder academic performance of TIA

students.

• For all suspendable offenses, parents will notified and the student will be removed from

class immediately.

• Teachers shall follow fair warning procedures in class for students expressing behavior that is

disturbing the class environment before issuing a referral to the school administration.

Following are the disciplinary measures taken, before the student is referred to the school

administration:

1. First offense a verbal warning is given.

2. Second offense the student will complete a reflection sheet.

3. Third offense, reflection sheet, signed by parents.

4. Fourth offense, reflection sheet, signed by parents and a phone call to parents

5. Finally a discipline referral requesting a meeting with student’s parents from the referring

teacher describing the student’s actions and future behavioral expectations.

• Certain behaviors, outside ‘regular’ class disruptions may warrant immediate reflection

and/or removal from class without warning.

• Technology/electronics violations and inappropriate posting or sharing of information will

not require warning before reflection or removal from class

• The student will be given consequences for his/her misbehavior as seen fit by the school

administration and in accordance with the code. Notification to the parents will be by phone,

and in cases of suspension, will also be in writing. TIA will follow the Leveled Flow Chart

CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

Discipline Flow Chart

To address incidents of misconduct, a discipline flow chart was drafted by the principal, revised

by the staff and approved by the school committee. Each incident will be considered within the

context of its situation and the developmental level of the child carrying out the act. The

discipline flow chart is shown below:


Level 1: Classroom level consequences include warnings, a note sent home, time out, and a

reflection sheet.

• Repeated class disruption

• Being out of class without permission

• Teasing others, including probable bullying and/or cyber-bullying

• Chewing gum, eating candy or food at unauthorized time

• Loud conduct

• Littering

Level 2: Repetition of a Level 1 offence or any of the listed offences will result in parental

contact through a discipline report sent home, phone call, and/or parent conference. The teacher

will also issue a classroom consequence.

• Cheating or inappropriate copying of other’s work

• Disturbing student’s property

• Disrespect to an adult

• Backbiting and spreading rumors amounting to bullying and/or cyber-bullying

• Instigating others amounting to bullying and/or cyber-bullying

• Inappropriate physical contact, including play fighting and/or bullying

• Throwing an object at a person and/or throwing a heavy object Repeated refusal to follow

directions

Level 3: Repetition of a Level 2 offence or any of the listed offences will result in a climate

meeting with the student and parent, as well as additional steps such as a behavior contract,

detention, or suspension.

• Obscene or otherwise inappropriate language, including bullying and cyber-bullying

• Using slurs, profanity in language or gesture, whether written, verbal or electronic

(cyber-bullying)

• Mutual combat, fighting, and other violent engagements

• Hurting another person or threatening to do so, including bullying and cyber-bullying

• Bringing a dangerous object to school

• Intentional damage of school or other’s property, including bullying

• Running away from or skipping school or class

• Unlawful entry of the school

• Un-Islamic interaction with someone of the opposite gender

• Destroying or defacing school, Masjid, or personal property

Level 4: Repetition of a level 3 offence or any of the listed offences will result in suspension and

a review by the school committee and principal for further consequences, which may include

long term suspension or expulsion.

• Bringing to school a firearm, weapon, or other form of explosive

• Harming or attempting to harm another person with a weapon

• Possessing, selling, or distributing controlled substances including cigarettes

• Attack/unprovoked assault

• Arson or attempted arson

• Armed robbery

• Bomb threat

• Any illegal behavior

Expulsion: TIA Discipline Advisory Committee (DAC) has the authority to expel a student for

serious and/or repeated offenses. Both the student and the student’s parents or guardian shall

receive appropriate notices and will be informed of the procedures for hearings or expulsions.

Expulsion hearing follow due procedural process.


• Conflict mediation where all parties sit down and ensure future harmony.

• Probationary Contract

• Removal from class by teacher

• Full restitution by parent(s) for damages done by student

• Confiscation of inappropriate items

• Appeals of decisions made by the principal should be put in writing and addressed to

the School Board Committee.

• TIA School Administration, and discipline coordinator, along with the TIA Discipline

Advisory Committee, will investigate infractions that may result in expulsion. The

student and the parents will be able to present their case in front of a committee. The

School Board Committee will be the body that makes the final decision after reviewing

the investigation findings.

UNIFORM POLICY VIOLATION NOTES

A student in blatant violation will be sent to the office where parents will be notified to pick up

the student or bring in a uniform.

NETWORK ETIQUETTES

Students are expected to abide by the e generally accepted rules of network etiquettes.

These include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Maintain the security of the network by keeping information, especially passwords and

accounts private.

• Refrain from behavior or activity that damages or disrupts the performance of the

network.

• Use the network for approved legal activities that have educational relevance.

• Honor all rules of copyright and personal property.

• Avoid the spread of computer viruses.

• Students are not allowed unauthorized communication tools including accessing email,

chatting, instant messaging, newsgroups, etc., from the internet.

• Students may not go to any sites not academically related or permitted by the teacher.

• Refrain from playing games, checking stocks, surfing sports/videos/e-bay/etc.

• Printing only what is necessary for school work.

• Bringing unauthorized items into the computer lab, including food, drinks, etc. is not

allowed.

• Tampering with hardware or computer cables is prohibited.

INAPPROPRIATE USE

• Inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to, those uses that are specifically named as

violations in this document, that violate the rules of network etiquette, or that hamper the

integrity or security of this or any network connected to the internet.

• Vandalism and mischief are prohibited. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to

harm or destroy data or another user, the internet, or any network that is connected to the

internet.

• This includes, but is not limited to, the deliberate creation and/or propagation of

Computer viruses. Sending unsolicited junk mail or chain letters is prohibited. Any

interference with the work of other users, with or without malicious intent, is construed as

mischief and is strictly prohibited.

USER ID VIOLATIONS


Once a Network User ID is issued, the user is responsible for all actions taken while using that

User ID. Sharing of a User ID with another person is prohibited.

POLICY CONTRACT

I have read and understood The Islamic Academy for Peace (TIA) Computing and Technology

Policy and will abide by the policy and use technology responsibly and ethically. Should I

commit any violation, I understand that my access privileges may be revoked, school

disciplinary action at the sole discretion of TIA administration may be taken, and both civil and

criminal prosecution under the law may be pursued against me.

Student’s Name: _______________________________ .

Student’s Signature:_______________________________ Grade Level: ______.

Date: ____/_____, 2014

As the parent or guardian, I have read and discussed the terms and conditions for Internet access

as set forth in TIA’s Computing and Technology Policy. I understand that this access is designed

for educational purposes and that my child is expected to act responsibly and ethically in regards

to the use of technology. Violation of this policy can have serious repercussions, including but

not limited to, loss of access privileges, school disciplinary action, and both civil and criminal

prosecution under federal or state laws.

Parent/Guardian’s Signature: ____________________________________

Date: ___-/____, 2014

CODE OF CONDUCT

I have read and understood The Islamic Academy for Peace (TIA) Code of Conduct and

disciplinary guidelines. I will abide by the policies set in place and be responsible for my actions

at all times. Should I commit any of the leveled offenses, I understand that the consequence list

in the handbook will apply and that school disciplinary action is at the sole discretion of the TIA

administration.

Student’s Name: _______________________________ .

Student’s Signature:_______________________________ Grade Level: ______.

Date: ____/_____, 2014

Parent/Guardian’s Signature: ____________________________________

Date: ___-/____, 2014

Please return this completed form to the school office. Students are not allowed to use TIA’s

computer equipment or to have Internet access until this form is returned and on file in the

administration office.

THE ISLAMIC ACADEMY FOR PEACE PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK · 2016-02-05 · THE ISLAMIC ACADEMY FOR...

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Transcript of THE ISLAMIC ACADEMY FOR PEACE PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK · 2016-02-05 · THE ISLAMIC ACADEMY FOR...