Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook 2025 - 2026

Neither the Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook nor any provision therein creates an obligation on the part of Amigos Por Vida – Friends for Life Public Charter School (APV-FFL).

Because no Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook can anticipate every circumstance that may arise at the school, APV-FFL reserves the right to revise, supplement, or rescind any provisions and policies contained in the handbook.

FOREWORD

Students and parents are expected to become familiar with the requirements of the district wide Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook and the rules and guidelines adopted and implemented by district. Students are also expected to abide by the policies set forth in the Code so that they can truly get the most out of their years in school.

The School Board of “APV – FFL” has adopted this Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook (the “Code”) in accordance with Section 12.131 of the Texas Education Code, in order to clearly communicate standards for expected student conduct, the disciplinary consequences which may be applied to students who violate those standards, and the applicable procedures for the implementation of disciplinary consequences. All students must comply with the Code. Definitions of words and phrases used throughout this Code are provided at the end of the handbook.

Parents and students are encouraged to contact campus administration with any questions or concerns regarding the requirements and provisions of the Code. Parents and students are expected to review and be familiar with the provisions of the Code. Lack of knowledge or awareness about any School rules, including this Code, will not excuse violations of the Code. Parents and students will be required to sign a statement acknowledging receipt and understanding of the Code. A copy of this Code is available at the front office and at www.amigosporvida.com.

School Mission

Our mission at APV-FFL is to empower our students to become life-long learners and achieve academic and personal success, by providing an excellent education in a safe environment.

School Vision

It is our desire that every program, event, and resource point toward the development of a Community of Learners. We will endeavor to connect the daily operations of our school to successful student learning outcomes. The following standards will be used for the purpose of developing APV-FFL students as integral stakeholders, actively contributing toward the global community of learning.

THE LEARNER’S CREED

I believe in myself and our ability to do our best at all times. Today, we will be Responsible, Respectful, and Ready.

Acceptance to APV-FFL

In considering a student’s request for admission, the school may consider the student’s history of a criminal offense(s), juvenile court adjudication(s), or disciplinary problems under subchapter A, Chapter 37 of the Education Code, as evidenced by records received from schools previously attended by the student, law enforcement, or any other relevant documentation, and may exclude the student from admission on this basis.

If a student who would otherwise be ineligible for admission to the school provides false information on an admissions application or other enrollment document and as a result of the false information is admitted to the school, the student shall be immediately withdrawn from enrollment from the school upon discovery of the falsification. Falsification of information for the purpose of gaining enrollment in a public school is a criminal offense under § 37.10 of the Texas Penal Code. APV-FFL may elect to report the falsification to law enforcement or take any other action permitted by law.

Students must complete an application. Once the student is selected during the lottery, enrollment process begins. At this time, all required documents including birth certificate, immunization records, social security card, parent’s ID, proof of residency and last report card.
Students must be in good standing in conduct from previous.
Students must be in good standing with attendance/tardies.
Applications will not be processed if it is not filled out in its entirety (i.e. copy of immunization records, lease agreement).

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

Students and parents are expected to become familiar with the requirements of the district-wide Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook and the guidelines adopted by the district. Students are also expected to abide by the policies set forth in the Code so that they can truly get the most out of their years in school.

Commitment Contract

The purpose of this contract is to establish school, student, and parent/guardian expectations which will ensure that every student has the opportunity to have a successful school year.

APV-FFL Commitment:

Provide high-quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive and effective learning environment that enables the participating children to meet the State’s student academic achievement standards as follows:

All classroom teachers are highly qualified, they are either certified in their content area or on a certification plan.
All teachers teach the Texas Essential Knowledge Skills (TEKS).
Teachers follow the APV-FFL adopted curriculum.
Teachers use best practices to ensure a rigorous education.
All teachers will implement the Project Based Learning (PBL) program following the guidelines and expectations set by APV-FFL.

Parents may request to schedule appointments with teachers during their conference periods.
Appointment requests may be made with the receptionist or via ClassDojo with the teachers.
Teachers may request parent-teacher conferences to discuss academic progress, discipline issues or any other factor affecting the wellbeing of the student.

Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten:
Progress Reports will be sent home after 6 weeks.
Report Cards will be sent home after 12 weeks.
First through Eighth grade:
Progress Reports will be sent home every four weeks.
Report Cards will be sent home every seven weeks.

PARENTS’/GUARDIANS’ COMMITMENT:

We fully commit to APV-FFL in the following ways:

Arrival: ensure our child arrives at the school every day by 7:45 or by 7:15 a.m. if having breakfast.
Dismissal: ensure that our child is picked up from the school no later than 3:45 p.m. (Mon. - Fri.)
Pick up our child on time if he/she participates in any after-school activities.
Ensure our child will not exceed 6 absences per semester.
Ensure our child will not exceed 5 tardies per semester.
Make arrangements so our child can remain at APV-FFL for after school tutorials if needed. (Monday and/or Friday).
Make arrangements for our child to come to APV-FFL on Saturdays, if required.
Ensure that our child attends APV-FFL summer school if required.
Help our child in the best way we know and do whatever it takes for him/her to learn. We will check our child's homework when assigned and have them read at least 20 minutes every night.
Send our child to school with the necessary school supplies so that he/she may be successful in school.
Make ourselves available to our children, teacher, and school personnel.
Notify the school as soon as you know that your child will be absent.
Read carefully all the documents that the school sends home, including messages and messages via ClassDojo.
Allow our child to go on APV-FFL field trips.
Ensure our child follows the APV-FFL dress code.
Parents or legal guardians will not use a cellphone or any electronic device while driving a vehicle in a school zone. According to the law, driving in a school zone while operating an electronic is prohibited. Violators are subject to be ticketed.

We understand that our child must follow the APV-FFL rules so as to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals in the classroom. We, not the school, are responsible for the behavior and actions of our child.

Failure to adhere to these commitments can cause my child to lose various APV-FFL privileges and can lead to my child losing their space at our school.

STUDENT’S COMMITMENT:

I fully commit to APV-FFL in the following ways: I will:

Arrive at APV-FFL every day by 7:45 A.M. or 7:15 AM if eating breakfast (Mon. - Fri.)
Maintain an average of 70 or above in all my classes.
Attend after school tutorials, Saturday Tutorials and/or Summer School if required.
Work, think, and behave in the best way I know how, and I will do whatever it takes for me and my fellow students to learn
Complete, bring and submit all my homework when assigned.
Raise my hand and ask questions in class when I do not understand something.
Tell the truth to my teachers and accept responsibility for my actions.
Follow the APV-FFL student code of conduct and and follow the acceptable use policy.
Respect all school property.
Be ready for school with all necessary supplies.
Follow the APV-FFL dress code.
Be responsible for my own behavior.
Follow the teachers’ directions.

Failure to adhere to these commitments can cause me to lose various APV-FFL privileges and lose my space at the school.

Overwhelming evidence shows that when YOU are involved and engaged in the education of your child and give him/her the support necessary to make good decisions about progress made at school, he/she will become successful, perform better on test, and go on to high education. WE NEED YOUR HELP TO EDUCATE YOUR CHILD.

Requirements for Providing Assistance to Students WITH Learning Difficulties or May Need Special Education

If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the teacher to learn about the district’s overall general-education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a Special Education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other academic or behavioral support services that are available to all students.
At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for Special Education services. Within fifteen (15) school days, the district must decide whether the evaluation is needed. If evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 45 calendar days of the date the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parents. If the district determines the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of his or her rights if he or she disagrees with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards—Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities. The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for Special Education is the principal of your child’s school. The principal is familiar with the resources available and able to direct you to the appropriate personnel to address the learning issues your child is having.

STUDENT ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

APV-FFL is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable learning environment. The information provided highlights policies and procedures that will allow us to provide maximum safety for students as they arrive to and leave from school daily. Breakfast will be from 7:15-7:45 a.m. After school clubs will be from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Students arriving after 8:05 a.m. will be considered tardy and must enter through the front door. Dismissal will be at 3:30 p.m. Parents must be on time picking up their children after school.

Late pick-up will result in a $5.00 fee for every 15 minutes after 3:45 p.m. This fee will be charged per student and not per family. We recognize the importance of the school and community working together and request that you read this information carefully and follow the policies and procedures outlined.

AFTERSCHOOL TUTORIALS AND AFTERSCHOOL CLUBS LATE FEES

Late pick-up will result in fines as follows:

1st violation within one calendar month:

Late fee of $10 for arrival between 5:10 p.m. and 5:20 p.m. An additional $10 for arrival between 5:21 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and another $10 for every ten minutes after 5:31 p.m.

2nd violation within one calendar month:

Late fee of $15 for arrival between 5:10 p.m. and 5:20 p.m. An additional $10 for arrival between 5:21 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and another $10 for every ten minutes after 5:31 p.m.

If there is a third violation within a 1-calendar month or the parents refuse to pay the fine for the 1st or 2nd violation, the student will be removed from the Afterschool Club but tutorial students will continue paying fines.

SATURDAY TUTORIALS

1st violation within one calendar month:

Late fee of $10 for arrival between 12:10 p.m. and 12:20 p.m. An additional $10 for arrival between 12:21 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. and another $10 for every ten minutes after 12:31 p.m.

2nd violation within one calendar month:

Late fee of $15 for arrival between 12:10 p.m. and 12:20 p.m. An additional $15 for arrival between 12:21 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. and another $10 for every ten minutes after 12:31 p.m.

To provide early access to parents and legal guardians for AFTERSCHOOL TUTORIALS AND AFTERSCHOOL CLUBS, the West Gate will open at 4:30pm so they can be on time.

Morning Arrival

Students may enter the building beginning at 7:15 am Parents who arrive earlier are asked to remain with their child/children. Staff is not on duty before 7:15 am to supervise students. All students will use the cafeteria doors to enter the building. Parents are asked to remain in their cars and be prepared to move quickly when students exit the car. There is only one car rider line. Students will not be able to enter the school using the front entrance unless accompanied by a parent who is coming to the office, if there is a scheduled parent/teacher conference or if the student is tardy. Parents must be sure to sign in at the office and obtain a visitor’s badge. Keep in mind that students will not be allowed to go to any classroom until 7:30 am.

Afternoon Dismissal Procedure

In order to maximize instructional time and maintain an orderly school environment and safe dismissal, no student may be checked out of the office between 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Your cooperation is appreciated.
WALKERS
Parents must line up on the left side facing the front entrance.
Designated older siblings must also join the pick-up line.
Parents may not block the exit doors
Parents and teachers must not engage in conversation holding the line up.
BUS RIDERS
Students will be picked up at 3:25 from classesDesignated personnel will escort the students to the respective buses
CAR RIDERS
Gate # 3 will open at 3:00 pm for parents to start lining up
Parents will enter through gate # 3, pick up their students from the loading stations and exit though gate # 4.
It’s mandatory that all cars must display the car rider sign.
Cell phone use is prohibited by law in the school zone area
Note: After 3:50pm students that are not picked up will be waiting in the front office and late fees will apply.

Attendance POLICY

APV-FFL has adopted an attendance policy, which is in compliance with the state guidelines for compulsory attendance found in Chapter 25 of the Texas Education Code.
Regular attendance and punctuality are required of every student.
Unless specifically exempted by TEC 25.086, a child who is at least six years of age or who is younger than six years of age and has had previously been enrolled in first grade, and who has not yet reached the child’s 19th birthday must attend school. (TEC 25.085(b).
On enrollment in prekindergarten or kindergarten, a child must attend school. (TEC 25.085(c)).
APV-FFL’s attendance policy is as follows:
School Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Parents or guardians will receive an attendance contract in case six absences or more in the same semester. They will be required to meet with the attendance committee if attendance contract is broken.
Afterschool tutorials and extracurricular activities will take place from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Students who arrive after 8:05 a.m. will be marked tardy.
Absences will be considered excused for the following reasons if a written excuse is provided within three days:

Illness
Death in the family
Doctor/dentist/court appointments (afternoon appointments are strongly encouraged)
Please pick up students after 9:30 a.m. to ensure they are marked present for the day.
Religious holidays as allowed by law.
Students who are absent three or more consecutive days must bring formal documentation excusing an absence (not parent’s note).

Illness in household other than student
Waking up late
Transportation problems which are chronic or show a pattern of occurrence
Family vacations or out-of-town situations which do not include activities described above as excused absences.
Other excuses deemed by the campus administrator.
Weather related issues (Too cold or too hot)

Students are expected to make up work missed for all absences. With respect to family emergencies or prearranged absences, the parent or guardian must request homework assignments in advance.

Students may not exceed 6 absences or 5 tardies per semester.

PROMOTION STANDARDS

Students shall be evaluated on a continuous basis in the most effective manner to determine the extent of their progress.
Promotion expectations of APV-FFL are a minimum of 70 in all core subjects, and meeting minimum standard on all state and local assessments.
Please see the addendum for promotion standards by grade level

Student Dress Code and Personal Grooming

The APV-FFL (School) dress code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, instill discipline, prevent disruptive behavior, avoid safety hazards, and teach respect for authority.

Appropriate student dress and grooming are important factors in the safe and orderly operation of the school. Each student’s appearance should reflect a positive image of the school and contribute to a distraction-free learning environment. Our school values need the support of parents in upholding the campus dress and grooming guidelines.

All students are required to adhere to the school dress and grooming guidelines. Parents are expected to be knowledgeable and supportive of the dress and grooming guidelines.

Students must wear the school uniform.
PK3-2nd grade: Khaki or Navy Blue pants and hunter green collared shirt.
3rd-8th grade: Khaki or Navy Blue pants and navy-blue collared shirt
Pants must be sized to fit (no baggy pants) and worn at the waist.
Fitted or tight pants are not permitted. Leggings under the uniform may be used during the cold months in the following solid colors: black, hunter green, white, gray, navy blue.
Shirts must be long enough to be tucked in and not expose the back or stomach.
There should be no lace, ruffles, zippers, emblems, or designs of any kind visible on the polo shirts.
Only blue or black jeans may be worn on Friday with the “Spirit Shirt”.
Large belt buckles are not permitted.
If pants have loops, belts are needed.
Shorts are not allowed.
Skirts or skorts must be knee length. (Skirts must be worn with shorts underneath).
Students must wear appropriate undergarments.
FREE DRESS DAYS
Students who receive a free dress pass must comply with the APV-FFL dress code.
Students are not permitted to wear strapless or spaghetti strap shirts or dresses.
Torn Jeans are not allowed
Students cannot wear garments with visual or written messages that are likely to cause disruption to the school environment. Examples of such prohibited visual or written messages include, but are not limited to: drugs, alcohol, tobacco, weapons, violence, vulgar or obscene language or images, and/or insults to race, religion, gender, or ethnicity (Parents may bring a change of clothing or students may be sent home or required to wear the shirt inside out).
A student is prohibited from wearing any form of dress or accessories identifying him or her with a gang or cult or symbolizing the beliefs of such a group.
Students participating in school-related activities, such as extracurricular or UIL activities or other special functions, may have a different dress or grooming code required by the sponsor, coach, or administration.
“College Day” will be on Wednesdays and “College Shirts” will be worn with the uniform pants for the students. Students must wear khaki or blue uniform pants with their college shirt.
Shoes: sneakers, penny loafers, or saddle oxfords (no sandals, heels, etc.) – must be worn with socks. All sneakers and shoes must have shoelaces, which must be tied at all times. P.K and kinder may wear shoes with Velcro. Students must wear sneakers for dance, P.E. and structured recess.
Male students may not wear earrings, loops, studs and/or any other ornament on their ears.
Hair shall be kept clean and well groomed. A male’s hair shall not exceed below the eyebrow, bottom of the ear lobes or touch the shirt collar.
“Mohawks” and haircuts with symbols and designs are considered disruptive and are not permitted.
Any hairstyle such as mushrooms, afros or any other kind must not exceed 2 inches high measured from the scalp.
The student's hair style/color and makeup must not distract from or interfere with the learning and school environment. Temporary/permanent hair dyes other than the student’s natural hair color and highlights are prohibited.
Hair must be kept well groomed, neat, and clean at all times.
No type of head covering is to be worn. Exceptions would be a cap or hat that is part of a uniform worn at a school activity or a head covering worn for religious or medical purposes. Examples of prohibited head covering according to the guidelines include, but are not limited to scarves, hoods, hats, caps, sweatbands and bandanas.
Male students may not have any facial hair.
Overalls or similar clothing are not allowed.
Garments with hoods are not allowed.
Students may only wear the “APV-FFL logo Jacket”.
Clothing cannot be tied around the waist.
Noisy, distracting, flashy, or excessive jewelry or accessories, including wallet chains, are prohibited. Multiple rings and bracelets are not acceptable. Examples include, but are not limited to medallions, big chains or ropes with emblems attached, long chain that extend below the mid-section of the body, etc.).
The school district will not be held responsible for any lost or damaged jewelry.
Earrings are allowed for girls only and limited to a maximum of one earing per ear. All other body piercing jewelry is strictly prohibited. All students are forbidden to wear any visible body piercing ornaments including jewelry on the ear, nose, eyebrows, lips and/or tongue or any other body part.
Permanent or temporary body tattoos are prohibited. Glitter on any part of the body is also not permitted.
Girls are not allowed to wear fake/false nails or nail tips, make-up (foundation, blush, eye shadow, eyeliner, lip liner, lipstick, mascara, false eyelashes etc.), or lip-gloss with glitter and/or color appearance. Acrylic nails, short or long, are not allowed at any time except for the 8th grade graduation ceremony. (NO ACRYLIC NAILS DURING 8TH GRADE WEEK)
Any other dress deemed inappropriate by a school administrator that may be offensive, vulgar, unsafe, disruptive, or distracting in the school’s learning environment will not be permitted while on campus or when attending school related events.

Any student not in compliance with the dress code will have the chance to call home to get suitable clothing.. School officials may use other appropriate consequences as designated in the Code of Conduct. Students or parents who have a question about the appropriateness of an item should discuss the specific issue with the appropriate staff member before wearing the item.

Compliance with these guidelines is expected every day, including the first day of school. Students who are new to the campus, or students with extenuating circumstances, will be expected to be in compliance after a reasonable grace period, provided the grace period is approved by the Principal. Students are expected to follow the appropriate district dress and grooming guidelines. No Exceptions!

PARENT DRESS CODE

Parents are a child’s first role model. The employees of APV-FFL also serve as role models for each and every student. When attending a conference, meeting, school event or chaperoning a field trip we ask that parents and volunteers please follow the dress code guidelines below:

VOLUNTEER GUIDELINES

Volunteers must be approved by the School Counselor and must pass a background check. The school will accept applications from August to September 30th (After this time a $10.00 fee will be charged).
Sign in and out every time you are on campus volunteering.
If you are doing volunteer work at home, there is also a sign-in sheet to capture your hours.
When on campus wear the volunteer badge.
If you need a place to do your volunteer work, there is a WORK ROOM located on the second floor for your use.
Report only to your assigned area. Do not go to the classrooms without prior approval.
Please adhere to the Parent Dress Code while on campus and any time you are representing APV-FFL
Young children may not accompany parents while volunteering on campus

Student Responsibilities for Using Network and others Electronic Resources

The use of APV-FFL computers, computer systems, computer networks, software, and Internet is to support research and education in and among academic institutions by providing access to unique resources and the opportunity for collaborative work. The use of APV-FFL computers, computer systems, computer networks, software, and Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The system and building administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decision and the consequences are final.

Technology usage and maintenance:

APV-FFL will collect a non-refundable $20 per student at the beginning of the school year.

Network Standards

Using the network resources in such a way that would disrupt the use of the network is prohibited. (Social media, non-instructional web browsing, online games, or unauthorized messaging via teams).
Follow teacher guidelines and instructions on appropriate use of network resources.
Using inappropriate language such as swearing or vulgarity, or ethnic or racial slurs, or obscene material is prohibited.
Typing messages in all capital letters is the computer equivalent of shouting and is considered rude.
Revealing personal information of yourself or others is prohibited.
All, but not limited to, external media storage devices such as USB drives, flash/jump drives, CD-R/RW, and storage cards must be approved and scanned by IT school personnel.
Always log off from iPads/Computers that requires your personal log in information when your session is completed, after finishing your session put the assigned equipment to charge.
Sharing your issued username and password for any website is prohibited.
Individuals using the APV-FFL computer system and network, with or without authorization are subject to, and consent, to having their activities monitored and recorded by authorized system personnel.

Internet Acceptable Use

Obtain permission from your teacher before e-mailing, accessing or downloading any materials
Follow teacher guidelines and instructions on appropriate use of the Internet.
Access only course related materials for educational purposes.
Credit all resources appropriately when utilizing information accessed (observe copyright guidelines).
Refrain from using Peer Edited Resources as Wikipedia
APV-FFL prohibits any social media relationships between students and APV-FFL staff members.

Use of Data

Protect confidentiality and act responsibly when accessing data or resources required for schoolwork.
Use strong passwords and follow network etiquette to secure sensitive data.
Do not grant access to confidential information to others by placing sensitive data/schoolwork in “open” network resources.
Do not misrepresent or falsely manipulate/alter data.
It is a violation to knowingly attempt to access resources that you do not have permission to utilize or should not have access to as required for schoolwork.
It is your responsibility to report to your instructors instances where you have access to data/resources that are not part of your schoolwork.
“Hacking”, unauthorized use, or attempts to circumvent or bypass the security mechanisms of an information system or network of any kind are in violation of the APV-FFL Code of Conduct.
All data contained in the APV-FFL network is monitored, and can be intercepted, recorded, read, copied, or captured and disclosed in any manner by authorized personnel.
Restrictions
Installing any software to the district’s network system is prohibited.
Copying and distribution of unauthorized materials such as but not limited to video, audio, and image files is prohibited.
Use of district equipment for personal financial gain is strictly prohibited.
Accessing the district network using any non-district devices is prohibited. (Example – a personal wireless laptop).
Damaging and vandalizing computers, computer systems or computer networks is prohibited.
Accessing and using non-district provided email is strictly prohibited.

Copyright of Print/Non-Print Materials

Use of printed copies either from books or downloaded from electronic sources must be properly cited.
Copies may not be substituted in part or whole for an original work.
Copying software is illegal.
Student must not reproduce or print any copyrighted materials.

Disclaimers

Please note that since the Internet provides access to computers and people all over the world there is a possibility that students may encounter areas of adult content and objectionable material. While the district will take reasonable steps through training to preclude access to such material and does not encourage such access, it is not possible to absolutely prevent such access.

APV-FFL makes no warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied, for the provided access.

The staff, faculty, and school are not responsible for any damages incurred, including but not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays or interruption of service, for the loss of data stored on APV-FFL resources.
The staff, faculty, and school are not responsible for information obtained through district network resources resulting in criminal or terrorist activities.
Parents who do not wish for their children to have individual access to the Internet must submit to the campus principal a written letter expressing their desire for their child to be exempt from individual Internet access.

Anyone using the APV-FFL computer system and network expressly consents to aforementioned monitoring and is such monitoring reveals possible evidence of criminal activity, system personnel may provide the evidence to law enforcement officials and could result in fine, imprisonment, or both. Unauthorized access or use of the APV-FFL computer system and network may result in disciplinary actions including suspension and even expulsion from the school.

Cell Phones

Cellphones will be collected in the morning by the homeroom teachers and returned at the end of the school day.

Students shall not use a cell phone during the instructional day from 7:15 am to 5 pm, (when after-school activities are in place), , or while participating in a school-sponsored extracurricular activity on or off school property.

Instructional day defined. For cell phone purposes, the instructional day is as follows: Elementary and Middle School - 7:15 am to 4:00 pm unless the student in afterschool classroom activities (such as tutorials, fine arts rehearsals, athletic practices/competitions, club meetings, etc.) or detentions when the length of the instructional day is extended until the end of these programs. These timeframe restrictions apply to school-related meetings/practices before school and after school.
Afterschool use. When attending afterschool activities off campus, cell phones must be in “silent” mode inside the venue of an afterschool activity. (i.e. basketball game, choir or band concert, carnival, etc.).
Noncompliance. The following will occur when a student is not in compliance with the guidelines:
The cell phone will be confiscated.
First offense: The parent or guardian of the student will be allowed to reclaim the confiscated device by paying an administrative fee of fifteen dollars [($15) by cash as allowed by Texas Education Code 37.082. If there is a second offense, the cellphone will be confiscated until the end of the school year. Fees collected will be designated for use toward school activities.
Unclaimed Cell Phones. If a cell phone is not reclaimed by the parent/guardian within 30 days of the date of notification or the end of the school year (whichever is later), the equipment will be disposed by the school as allowed by State law.

An employee who discovers a student in possession of a cell phone in violation of this policy shall confiscate the cell phone and report the violation to the Principal or his/her designee.

Under no circumstances should cell phones be used to take pictures in the school facility. This is especially important because of privacy issues related to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the federal law that protects student privacy. Confiscated cell phones that have the capacity to take photographs will have photos reviewed in the presence of the student prior to being claimed by a parent/guardian to ensure that no photos were taken during the school day that violate FERPA laws or school rules. Students will be required to delete school-related photos that were not taken at an event open to the public. Additionally, police might be contacted if an administrator has reason to believe that a photo might be a violation of law.

Right to Information and Privacy of Records

Students are assured the right to information and privacy of their records in accordance with the Texas Public Information 5 Act and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.
Parents or eligible students have the responsibility to release information to those individuals or agencies that are working actively and constructively for the benefit of the student, including, for example, teachers, administrators, school nurses, etc.

Notification of Rights Under FERPA

Directory Information Notice

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

Examples include:

A playbill, showing your student's role in a drama or dance production
The school newsletter
Honor roll or other recognition lists
Graduation programs
Sports activity sheets or t-shirts, such as for soccer, showing weight and height of team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s

prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that print t-shirts or awards. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want APV-FFL to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify APV-FFL within 30 days of enrollment. APV-FFL has designated the following information as directory information:

Student's name
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Address
Dates of attendance
Telephone number
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Electronic mail address
Honors and awards
Photograph
Grade level
Date and place of birth

media release

Students may participate and appear in video or audio recordings, films, photographs, written articles, or on websites and social media sites. This consent includes the use and editing of a student’s image, voice and name in media projects by APV-FFL to print, broadcast or Internet media outlets, such as newspapers, radio and television stations and news websites. If you DO NOT wish for your child to participate in any of these activities the PEIMS Coordinator must be notified in writing otherwise it will be understood APV-FFL, including its employees and contractors, will be released from all claims resulting from the use and editing of my child’s

Parent-signed media releases are NOT needed when:
Photographing or videotaping anonymous students engaged in normal classroom/ school activities.
Photographing, videotaping or interviewing students at events that are open to the public, such as music, theater or athletic events.
Parent-signed media releases are ALWAYS needed when:
Students are interviewed or will be identified by name in a photograph/news article.
An individual student(s) is the focus of the story.
Photographing, videotaping or interviewing students who are in special education classes/ services or certain specialized programs (drug/alcohol, detention/work detail, etc.).
You feel that the photograph, videotape or interview may be used in a negative way.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE

STUDENT MISCONDUCT

The Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook provides a description of a broad range of behavior considered to be student misconduct. The behavior described should be viewed as representative of the misconduct that most frequently causes a disruption to the orderly educational process. The acts of misconduct listed in Levels I, II, III, IV, and V are not inclusive. The student who commits an act of misconduct that may be classified into any of the five levels will be subject to disciplinary action by the classroom teacher, Assistant Principal, and/or Principal.

When and Where These Rules Apply

The policies and administrative procedures concerning Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook apply to actions of students on school property, and, in some cases, for conduct occurring off school property. Under state law, a student may be expelled by APV-FFL for Level V misconduct that occurs on the property of another school district within Texas. Additionally, the rules apply to actions of students at all school-sponsored or school-related activities or events, such as field trips, sporting events, stadium assemblies, fairs, or evening school-related activities. Students should be aware that the commission of any felony offense, whether at school or away from school, may result in placement of the student in an APV-FFL expulsion. Finally, students should be aware that administrators who are made aware of criminal activity whether on or off campus will make a report to appropriate law enforcement agencies and that, in addition to these administrative rules, students may be subject to criminal charges for violations of the law.

Gang-Free School Zone

INVESTIGATION OF DISCIPLINE ISSUES

In order to determine whether a violation of the Code has occurred, campus administrators or other authorized individuals may conduct an investigation. Investigations of student misconduct may involve, but are not limited to, interviews of other students, employees and adults, review of school surveillance footage, review of relevant documents, review of information on School-owned computers, verification of tips received from other individuals, gathering of physical evidence, contact of or cooperation with law enforcement agencies and officials. Law enforcement may be contacted and informed of student conduct which may constitute a criminal offense.

Students should have no expectation of privacy with respect to School-owned property. Lockers, desks, and other items provided for student use remain School property, and students

do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in School property or in personal items placed inside School property. School administrators or other authorized personnel may monitor and search student desks and lockers for any reason. School officials may search any School property, including School property that is within a student’s possession or otherwise being used by a student, at any time, with or without notice to the student and without consent. School officials may confiscate any items found during a search, including prohibited items, dangerous items or other items that violate School policy.

A student’s person or property may be searched by authorized school officials if the official has a reasonable belief that the search will result in the discovery of evidence of a violation of the Code or of the law. Any personal property which is brought onto school property or to a school-sponsored or school-related activity or event, on or off school property, may be subject to search (e.g., student cell phone, backpack, personal computer, purse, car, etc.).

Education during Suspension

DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEED

Students eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) are subject to discipline under those laws and in accordance with the provisions of this Code.

The School may take disciplinary action pertaining to the use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol against any student with a disability under Section 504 who is currently engaging in the illegal use of drugs or in the use of alcohol to the same extent that the School would take disciplinary action against nondisabled students. The due process procedures afforded under Section 504 do not apply to disciplinary action for the use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol. However, a student who is eligible for special education under the IDEA should have a manifestation determination review conducted to address any use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol if such conduct could result in a change of placement.

Any disciplinary action that would constitute a “change in the placement” of a student receiving special education services may be taken only after the student’s Admission, Review, and

Dismissal (ARD) committee conducts a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) in order to determine whether the student’s conduct was a manifestation of his or her disability.

A change in placement occurs if a student is:

The series of removals total more than ten school days in a school year
The student’s behavior is substantially similar to the student’s behavior in the previous incidents that resulted in the series of removals
Additional factors exist, such as the length of each removal, the total amount of time the student is removed, and the proximity of the removals to one another.

The School will determine, on a case-by-case basis, whether a pattern of removals constitutes a change in placement.

A student who has not been determined eligible for special education services and who has engaged in behavior that violates the Code is entitled to the protections under the IDEA regarding discipline of a student with special needs described above if the school has knowledge that the student was a student with a disability before the behavior that precipitated the disciplinary action occurred. If the school does not have knowledge that a student is a student with a disability prior to taking disciplinary action, the student may be subject to the disciplinary actions applied to students without disabilities. If a request is made for an evaluation of a student during the time period in which the student is subjected to disciplinary action, the evaluation shall be conducted in an expedited manner.

General Discipline Guidelines for Assessing Penalties

One or more of these disciplinary consequences may be issued to a student found to have violated the Code. If the Code does not specify the appropriate disciplinary consequence for a particular type of student conduct, the school may issue whatever disciplinary consequence is deemed reasonable and appropriate, with the exception of expulsion. A teacher may have additional rules and consequences for student conduct in the classroom which may result in discipline under this Code or may be enforced in addition to any discipline issued under this Code.

The Code shall be applied and enforced consistently and equitably among students, with the understanding that every disciplinary situation will differ, and decisions will be made based on the individual facts and circumstances of a given situation.

Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, discipline may be issued by the student’s classroom teacher, campus administrator, or administrator’s designee, in accordance with this Code. In order to make a determination of misconduct or issue disciplinary consequences under this Code, the authorized school employee must have a reasonable belief that the student engaged in the suspected conduct. The employee’s conclusion may be based on any relevant evidence including, but not limited to, observation, other personal knowledge, verbal or written witness statements, other forms of documentation, or information received from law enforcement.

When administering discipline, district personnel shall adhere to the following general guidelines:

Students shall be treated fairly and equitably. Discipline shall be based on a careful assessment of the circumstances of each case. Administrators should use caution and should ordinarily consider developmentally appropriate interventions for very young children who engage in misconduct.

General Procedures for Resolving School Problems

General Procedures for Resolving School Problems can best be resolved at the campus level, where problems start. In order to resolve problems, parents, guardians, and/or students can meet with a teacher at appropriate times to discuss existing problems. If parents, guardians, or students are dissatisfied with the teacher’s decision or explanation, they can meet with the building administrator to review the area of concern.

LevelS of Student Misconduct and Disciplinary Options

Level I: Violation of Classroom Rules

Level I Acts of Misconduct May Include Such as Behavior as:

Violation of rules or procedures established by the teacher
Failure to participate in classroom activities
Unexcused tardiness to class
Failure to bring require materials or assigned work to class
General misbehavior, such as eating in class, horseplay, making excessive noise, or violating campus dress codes
Any other act that disrupts the classrooms or interrupts the operation of the class
Failure to deliver or return written communication between home and school
Disruptive or noncompliance behavior on a school bus or at bus stop
Failure to protect individual computer-account passwords from disclosure

Disciplinary Options/Responses

Oral correction
Other appropriate in class-disciplinary actions
Teacher-student conference
Parent contact: note or telephone call to parent
Student-counselor conference
Detention (maintained and managed by teacher) before or after school
Community Services

Procedures

Any staff member who observes a student violating class rules may correct the student.
A record of the offenses and disciplinary actions should be maintained by the teacher or staff member on the appropriate form.
The teacher should discuss the misbehavior with the parent, an administrator, or support personnel.
Level I behavior violations and discipline options/responses are not limited to those provided. Serious or repeated violations may result in a more severe or referral to Level II.

Level II: Administrator Intervention

Some infractions will result in a referral to an administrator. The disciplinary response depends on the offense, previous actions, and the seriousness of the misbehavior. Level II acts of misconduct include those student acts that interfere with orderly educational process in the classroom or in the school. A teacher who observers a student engaged in Level II or higher misconduct will fill out a discipline referral form for the Principal or Assistant Principal, who will forward an oral or written report to the parents.

Level II Administrative Referral Such Behavior as:

Repeated violation of classroom rules (Level I)
Failure to comply with the Student Handbook, or other school rules
Leaving the classroom, school building, mandatory school activities or events, or adult supervision without permission
Skipping class period or other mandatory activity, in whole or in part, without permission
Violation of district or campus policies, or rules related to the use of electronic media, including personal or school-owned electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, game systems, computers, cameras), or the school’s network or internet connection
Defacing, destroying or otherwise modifying school property without authorization
Taking photographs or making videos or audio recordings of students, employees, or other persons without the consent of the other person
Soliciting or attempting to solicit another student to violate the Code, school policies and rules, or the law
Taking steps toward violation of the Code even if the act is not completed, as determined by appropriate school administrator
Failing to follow school directives and classroom rules and expectations
Inappropriate or unauthorized use of school property, including posting disturbing literature or materials without school authorization
Cheating, plagiarism, or copying the work of other students
Leaving the classroom or school grounds without the permission of school personnel
Cutting class or skipping school
Possession of matches or other flammable materials
Inappropriate display of affection
Posting or distributing unauthorized materials on school grounds
Failure to abide by rules and regulations at extracurricular activities or at co-curricular activities such as field trips
Loitering in unauthorized areas
Cheating, plagiarism, or copying the work of other students on a classwork, homework, or class test (not benchmark test)
Cafeteria disturbance
Disruptive behavior on a school-provided transportation (bus, rental van, etc.) during a field trip, afterschool event or concerts among others
Any other acts that interfere with the orderly educational process in the classroom or the school
Accessing materials and sites on the Internet that are deemed to be inappropriate by APV-FFL
Sending or forwarding inappropriate e-mail, including e-mail containing offensive language, untruthful statements, junk e-mail, chain letters, or jokes

Disciplinary Options/Responses:

Parental contact by phone and written or oral notification to parent or guardian
Required administrator/student/parent conference
Detention or placement in in-school suspension
Exclusion from extracurricular activities, such as field trips, and commencement exercises/award ceremonies
“Behavior and/or “conduct” contracts
Teacher removal of the student from the classroom
Any other appropriate disciplinary actions determined by the administration
Community Service

Procedures:

Referral to administrator by way of written report not to exceed one page in length
Administrator confers with student and/or teacher to establish appropriate action
Written or oral notification of action is sent to parent.
Notification is sent to the teacher indicating action taken
Discipline Referral Form is retained by the administrator
Level II behavior violations and discipline options/responses are not limited to those provided
Repeated violations shall result in a more severe response and/or referral to level III
The following are the immediate steps taken by the administrator.
1. Lunch/Ancillary Detention
2. In School Suspension
Detention and ISS will be assigned by administrators.

Level III: Misconduct Resulting in Suspension/Removal from Classroom

Level III acts include misconduct for which an administrator may suspend the student, place the student in in-school suspension, or, if the administrator finds the Level III misconduct to be serious or persistent as defined in this Code, refer the student for possible expulsion from campus. The Principal or other appropriate administrator makes the disciplinary determination on the basis of the severity of the misconduct. The period of the suspension is limited to three days per occurrence.

Level IV and Level V- Expulsion for Serious Offenses:

REASONS FOR EXPULSION

A student [may/must] be expelled from the school if he or she is found to have committed any of the acts listed below.

Weapons: The student used, exhibited, or possessed any of the following while on school property or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property:

Violent Conduct. The student engaged in conduct that contains the elements of the following offenses within the Texas Penal Code, regardless of location:

Aggravated assault, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, arson, murder, capital murder, criminal attempt to commit murder or capital murder, indecency with a child, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, or continuous sexual abuse of a child or children
Assault against another student, an employee, or a volunteer of the school
Deadly conduct
A Title V felony under the Penal Code

Disruptions. The student engaged in conduct that contains the elements of the following offenses within the Texas Penal Code, regardless of location:

False alarm or report or terroristic threat involving a public school
An offense related to an abusable volatile chemical
Breach of computer security if the conduct involves accessing a computer network, or computer system owned by or operated on behalf of a public school and the student knowingly alters, damages, or deletes school district property or information or commits a breach of any other computer, computer network, or computer system
Criminal mischief if the conduct is punishable as a felony
Public lewdness or indecent exposure

Drugs and Alcohol. The student engaged in conduct that contains the elements of the following offenses within the Texas Penal Code:

Sells, gives, delivers to another person or possesses or uses or is under the influence of marijuana or a dangerous drug, as defined by the Health and Safety Code, if the conduct is punishable as a felony
Sells, gives, delivers to another person an alcoholic beverage, as defined by the Alcoholic Beverage Code, commits a serious act or offense while under the influence of alcohol or possesses, uses, or is under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, and the conduct is punishable as a felony

Other. The student, while on campus or at a school-sponsored or school-related event, on or off campus:

PERMANENT EXCLUSION FROM ADMISSION REQUIRED: A student expelled from the School for any length of time is not eligible for readmission to the school at any time.

DISCIPLINE APPEAL PROCESS

With the exception of expulsions, student discipline decisions at the campus level are final and not appealable. A parent, legal guardian, or adult student may appeal an expulsion decision by filing a written appeal with the principal within 5 business days of the date of the Expulsion Order. The principal or principal’s designee will review the record of the expulsion proceedings at the campus level, along with any other relevant information, and will issue a written decision to the appealing party within 10 business days of receiving the request for review.

If the appealing party is not satisfied with the decision of the Principal or Principal’s designee, he or she may appeal that decision to the School Board of APV-FFL The principal shall notify the School Board of APV-FFL and arrange for the School Board of APV-FFL to hear the complaints of the appealing party at the next available board meeting. The principal shall notify the appealing party of the location, date and time of the hearing in front of the School Board of APV-FFL. The decision of the School Board of “APV-FFL” is final and not appealable. An expulsion action will not be delayed during the appeal process.

Zero Tolerance/Pursuit of Criminal Charges

The APV-FFL School, Board, in accordance with its major system priorities, believes the school environment should be safe for all students and free of disruptions that interfere with the educational process. In response to this belief, the School Board has developed a policy of zero tolerance. This policy shall apply to elementary and middle-school students. In cases where students in elementary or middle school engage in conduct that contains the elements of an offense in violation of the Penal Code or the Education Code, the school district will pursue arrest, charges, and probationary contracts, juvenile detention facility, or county jail. Parents and students should be aware that Houston Police Department officers are peace officers commissioned by the State of Texas and are authorized to enforce all laws or take any action to enforce the law whether on campus or away from campus.

Reports to Local Law Enforcement

The principal has an obligation under the law to notify the Houston Police Department if he or she has reasonable grounds to believe that a student has engaged in any criminal offense in school, on school property, or at a school sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property. The principal or other administrator who notifies local law enforcement of these offenses shall notify each instructional or support-staff member who has regular contact with the student who has committed an expellable offense.

Corporal Punishment

Bullying and Other Types of Harassment

The school encourages all students and staff members to foster a climate of mutual respect for others in order to enhance the district’s educational purpose and the program designed to achieve that purpose. Each student is expected to respect the rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and district staff members.
Students shall not engage in harassment motivated by age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, handicap or disability, marital status, religion, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression and directed toward another student. A substantiated charge of harassment against a student shall result in disciplinary action.
The term “harassment” includes repeated, unwelcome, and offensive slurs, jokes, or other oral, written, graphic, or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race, color, religion, national origin, or disability that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment. The term also includes threatening to cause harm or bodily injury to another student, engaging in sexually intimidating conduct, causing physical damage to the property of another student, subjecting another student to physical confinement or restraint, or maliciously taking any action that substantially harms another student ’s physical or emotional health or safety.
Reports of bullying shall be made as soon as possible after the alleged act or knowledge of the alleged act. A failure to immediately report may impair the district’s ability to investigate and address the prohibited conduct.
Bullying, meaning engaging in written or verbal expression, expression through electronic means, or physical conduct that occurs on school property, at a school-sponsored or school-related activity, or in a vehicle operated by the district and that: (1) has the effect or will have the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damage to the student ’s property; (2) is sufficiently severe, persistent, and pervasive that the action or threat creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student; (3) exploits an imbalance of power between the student perpetrator and the student victim through written or verbal expression or physical conduct; (4) interferes with a student ’s education or substantially disrupts the operation of a school.
Engaging in threats or other acts of intimidation that interfere with another student’s desire or willingness to participate in the educational process.
Any verbal abuse of others, including slurs, name-calling, or derogatory statements to another person because of that person’s race, color, religion, national origin, disability, physical/personal appearance, sexual orientation, and gender identity and/or gender expression.
Cyberbullying at or away from campus, which is defined as the use of the internet, cell phones or other devices to send, post, or text message images and material intended to hurt or embarrass another student. This may include, but is not limited to, continuing to send e-mail to someone who has said he or she wants no further contact with the sender; sending or posting threats, sexual remarks, or pejorative labels (i.e., hate speech); ganging up on victims by making them the subject of ridicule in electronic forums and posting false statements as fact intended to humiliate another student; disclosure of personal data such as another student’s real name, address, or school on websites or forums to embarrass or harass; posing as another student for the purpose of publishing material in his or her name that defames or ridicules him or her; sending threatening and harassing text, instant messages, or emails to another; and posting or sending rumors or gossip to incite others to dislike and/or gang up on the target, which is determined to have a material and substantial interference with school activities or with the rights of students.
Engaging in assault not involving bodily injury, which is defined as intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury (Section 22.01(a)(2), Penal Code)
To obtain assistance and intervention, any student who believes that he or she has experienced bullying or believes that another student has experienced bullying should immediately report the alleged acts to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other district employee. Any district employee who suspects or receives notice that a student or group of students has or may have experienced bullying shall immediately notify the principal or designee.

Procedures for Investigation of Bullying

The principal or designee shall determine whether the allegations in the report, if proven, would constitute prohibited conduct including dating violence and harassment or discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or disability. If so, the district shall proceed under policy. If the allegations could constitute prohibited conduct and bullying, the investigation under shall include a determination on each type of conduct.
The principal or designee shall conduct an appropriate investigation based on the allegations in the report.
The principal or designee shall promptly take interim action calculated to prevent bullying during the course of an investigation, if appropriate.
Absent extenuating circumstances, the investigation should be completed within ten district business days from the date of the initial report alleging bullying; however, the principal or designee shall take additional time if necessary to complete a thorough investigation.
The principal or designee shall prepare a final, written report of the investigation. The report shall include a determination of whether bullying occurred, and if so, whether the victim used reasonable self-defense. A copy of the report shall be sent to the principal or designee.
If an incident of bullying is confirmed, the Principal or designee shall promptly notify the parents of the victim and of the student who engaged in bullying.
If the results of an investigation indicate that bullying occurred, the district shall promptly respond by taking appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the district’s Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook and may take corrective action reasonably calculated to address the conduct.
A student who is a victim of bullying and who used reasonable self-defense in response to the bullying shall not be subject to disciplinary action.
The discipline of a student with a disability is subject to applicable state and federal law in addition to the Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook.
The principal or designee shall notify the victim, the student who engaged in bullying, and any students who witnessed the bullying of available counseling options.
If the investigation reveals improper conduct that did not rise to the level of prohibited conduct or bullying, the district may take action in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook or any other appropriate corrective action.
To the greatest extent possible, the district shall respect the privacy of the complainant, persons against whom a report is filed, and witnesses. Limited disclosures may be necessary in order to conduct a thorough investigation
A student who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal through School Board.

DEFINITIONS

The following definitions are provided to further detail and define the terms of this Code. The Board of Governors shall have final authority to interpret or amend any terms or provisions within this Code.

Abusable volatile chemicals: Those substances as defined in Texas Health and Safety Code § 485.001.

Alcoholic Beverage: Those substances as defined in Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 1.04.

Assault: Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another.

Bullying: Written or verbal expression or physical conduct that (1) has the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damage to the student’s property; or (2) is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive enough that the action or threat creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student.

Club: An instrument specially designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with the instrument, including a blackjack, nightstick, mace, and tomahawk.

Controlled substance: Substances as defined in Chapter 481 of the Texas Health & Safety Code or 21 U.S.C. § 801 et seq.

Deadly conduct: Recklessly engaging in conduct that places another in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or knowingly discharging a firearm in the direction of an individual, habitation, building, or vehicle.

Electronic media: Refers to all forms, kinds and types of electronic devices, communication systems, networks, software, websites, and any other technology resources including, but not limited to, social media, text messaging, instant messaging, electronic mail (e-mail), Web logs (blogs), electronic forums (chat rooms), video-sharing or file sharing Web sites, cellular telephones, portable electronic devices, computers.

False alarm or report: Knowingly initiating, communicating, or circulating a report of a present, past, or future bombing, fire, offense, or other emergency that is known to be false or baseless and that would ordinarily: (1) cause action by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies; (2) place a person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury; or (3) prevent or interrupt the occupation of a building, room, or place of assembly.

Firearm (federal): (1) any weapon, including a starter gun that will, is designed to, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; (2) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (3) any firearm muffler or firearm weapon; or (4) any destructive device, such as an explosive, incendiary, or poison gas bomb, or grenade.

Firearm (state): Any device designed, made, or adapted to expel a projectile through a barrel by using the energy generated by an explosion or burning substance or any device readily convertible to that use.

Gang: An organization, combination, or association of persons composed wholly or in part of students that: (1) seeks to perpetuate itself by taking in additional members on the basis of the decision of the membership rather than on the free choice of the individual, or (2) that engages in illegal and/or violent activities. In identifying gangs and associated gang attire, signs, or symbols, the School will consult with law enforcement authorities.

Harassment: Threatening to cause harm or bodily injury to another, engaging in sexually intimidating conduct, causing physical damage to the property of another, subjecting another to physical confinement or restraint, maliciously taking any action that substantially harms another’s physical or emotional health or safety, alone or in combination with other conduct prohibited by School policy, rules or the Code.

Illegal knife: A knife with a blade over 5 ½ inches; hand instrument designed to cut or stab another by being thrown; dagger, including but not limited to a dirk, stiletto, and poniard; bowie knife; sword; or spear.

Paraphernalia: Any article or device used or intended for use to inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce marijuana, a controlled substance, or a dangerous drug into the human body, including but not limited to roach clips, rolling papers, needles, baggies with residue, razor blades, bongs and pipes.

Possession: Regardless of the student’s knowledge or intent to possess the item, to have in or on: (1) a student’s person or in the student’s personal property, such as the student’s clothing, purse, or backpack; (2) in any vehicle used by the student for transportation to or from school or school-related activities, such as an automobile, truck, motorcycle, or bicycle; or (3) any other school property used by the student, such as a locker or desk.

Prohibited item: Includes but is not limited to (1) alcoholic beverages, marijuana, controlled substances, or dangerous drugs; (2) paraphernalia; (3) prohibited weapons; (4) any other item prohibited by this Code.

Prohibited weapons: Includes the following items: armor-piercing ammunition, chemical dispensing device, explosive weapon, firearm silencer, knuckles, machine gun, short-barrel firearm, and switchblade knife, or zip gun, Taser gun.

Self-defense: When the person who is not the aggressor in an encounter uses the minimum force required removing himself or herself from immediate danger of harm. Actions that escalate or continue the encounter will not be considered self-defense.

Sexual harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student’s performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

Soliciting: Requesting, commanding, or attempting to induce another student to engage in specific conduct that would constitute a violation of the Code, and with the intent that a violation of the Code be committed.

Short-barrel firearm: A rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or a shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, or any weapon made from a rifle or shotgun if, as altered, it has an overall length of less than 26 inches.

Switchblade knife: Any knife with a blade that folds, closes, or retracts into the handle or sheath and that opens automatically by pressing a button or other device located on the handle or opens or releases a blade from the handle or sheath by the force of gravity or centrifugal force.

Terroristic threat: Threats to commit an offense involving violence to any person or property with intent to: (1) cause a reaction by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies; (2) place any person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury; (3) prevent or interrupt the occupation or use of a building, room, place of assembly, place to which the public has access, place of employment or occupation, aircraft, automobile, or other form of conveyance, or other public place; (4) cause impairment or interruption of public communications, public transportation, public water, gas, or power supply or other public service; (5) place the public or a substantial group of the public in fear of serious bodily injury; or (6) influence the conduct or activities of a branch or agency of the federal government, the state, or a political subdivision of the state (including the School).

Title 5 felony offenses: Offenses against the person that, depending on the circumstances, may include the following offenses under the Penal Code: murder; capital murder; transport; assault; aggravated assault; sexual assault; aggravated sexual assault; improper relationship between educator and student; indecency with a child; injury to a child, an elderly person, or a disabled person; abandoning or endangering a child; improper photography or visual recording; coercing, soliciting, or inducing gang membership; deadly conduct; terroristic threat; aiding a person to

commit suicide; harassment by a person in a correctional facility; continuous sexual abuse of a young child or children; and tampering with a consumer product.

Under the influence: When in an employee’s professional judgment, the student does not have the normal use of mental or physical faculties likely attributable to the student’s use of marijuana, a controlled substance, dangerous drug or alcoholic beverage. Such impairment may be evidenced by the symptoms typically associated with drug or alcohol use or other abnormal or erratic behavior. The student need not be legally intoxicated.

Use: With respect to substances, voluntarily injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing a prohibited substance into the body. With respect to objects or devices, putting into action or service or carrying out an action or purpose with the object or device.

Zip gun: A device or combination of devices that was not originally a firearm and is adapted to expel a projectile through a smooth-bore or rifled-bore barrel by using the energy generated by an explosion or burning substance.

Addendums

Promotion Standards for PK3- 2nd grade

Promotion Standards for 3- 8 grade

Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook

Student and Parent Acknowledgement

Attend all classes each day and be on time
Prepare for each class with appropriate materials and completed assignments
Dress according to the dress code adopted by APV-FFL
Know that the possession, use, and/or sale of illegal or unauthorized drugs, alcohol, and weapons are unlawful and prohibited
Show respect toward others
Conduct yourself in a responsible manner
Pay required fees and fines
Know and obey all school rules in the Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook.Cooperate with staff members in investigations of disciplinary matters The Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook has been written to help your son or daughter gain the greatest possible benefit from his or her school experience
Seek changes in school policies and regulations in an orderly and responsible manner, through appropriate channels.
Report threats to the safety of students and staff members as well as misconduct on the part of any other students or staff members to the building Principal, a teacher, or another adult.
Be familiar with and comply with the Acceptable Use Policy for Computers and Technology and understand that if access is not desired, the parent and student may opt out. Use APV-FFL technology systems for school business purposes only and use school computers and related equipment appropriately.
Abide by the technology security procedures developed by APV-FFL, such as never leaving a terminal or workstation unattended or unsecured while logged on to a host computer or network.
Report all observed or suspected technology security problems immediately to a teacher

APV-FFL shall foster a climate of mutual respect for the rights of others. Each student is expected to respect the rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and district personnel. The student’s responsibilities for achieving a positive learning environment at school and/or school-related activities shall include the following:

The Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook has been written to help your son or daughter gain the greatest possible benefit from his or her school experience.

The school needs your help and cooperation. It is important that every student understands the Code and be expected by his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) to follow the rules and regulations set forth in the Code. Please read and discuss the Code with your child. When you have done so, you and your child must sign this form and return it to the school. Signatures of parents and the student acknowledge receipt of a copy of the Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook and certify that they have read and discussed the Code. It is expected that parents and students will accept their responsibilities as described in the Code of Student Conduct and Parent Handbook.

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