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Student/Family Handbook

Dear College View Community,

I hope this letter finds you well and filled with anticipation for the upcoming school year. It is with great enthusiasm and privilege that I introduce myself as the School Director of CVHS. My name is Erik Jacobson, and I am truly honored to embark on this journey alongside each and every one of you.

Over the past ten years, I have had the incredible opportunity to be a part of the educational landscape here in Southwest Denver. Through my experiences as an educator, and now in my fifth year as a School Director, I have developed a deep-rooted passion for fostering a positive and engaging learning environment for all our students. The dedication of our staff, the commitment of our families, and the boundless potential of our students continue to inspire me daily.

I believe that a strong partnership between the school and our families is essential for the success of our students. It is my commitment to ensure that CVHS remains a place where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential. Together, we will work tirelessly to provide a well-rounded and inclusive education that nurtures academic growth.

I look forward to meeting each of you and building strong relationships that will contribute to the success of our school. Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. Let's work hand in hand to make this academic year a truly remarkable one.

In Service, 

Erik Jacobson

School Director


DSST Public Schools | Mission

 

DSST Public Schools transforms urban public education by eliminating educational inequity and preparing all students for success in college and the 21st century.

 

DSST PUBLIC SCHOOLS | Core Values

 

DSST was founded on 6 Core Values, which create a common language to develop a strong community and are embedded in everything we do.

These values include:

 

Respect: We appreciate each person and their story through our words, actions and attitudes. We value their unique perspective and treat others with dignity. 

Responsibility: We acknowledge that our actions and choices impact ourselves and our community. We take ownership of what we do and how we choose to do it. 

Integrity:  We act and speak with honesty, fairness, and thoughtfulness. We consistently align our words and actions. 

Courage: We possess the confidence and resolve to take risks, push ourselves and persevere in the face of pressure, adversity or unfamiliar circumstances. 

Curiosity: We are eager to learn, question, and explore. We have a thirst for knowledge, a love of investigation, and a desire to learn about ourselves, our community, and our world.

Doing Your Best:  We put our best effort into everything we do. We know that individual and collective effort are required for our community to thrive.

 

DSST PUBLIC SCHOOLS | Guiding Principles

 

Integrated

Create a community centered on our six core values which are lived and shared, not just talked about. And where equal importance is placed on character development and academic learning. 

Build a common understanding where each student and staff member embraces being a part of our community, sharing in the responsibilities and sacrifices such a commitment brings

Build a unified team that embraces the challenges of gender, economic and racial diversity, and which fulfills our commitment to have a student body of at least 40 percent students from economically disadvantaged families and 45 percent women. Engaging with a diversity of backgrounds, experiences and viewpoints will prepare our students for a diverse society and workplace.

Effectively use technology as a tool to enhance learning and integrate it across disciplines, preparing students for STEM careers and beyond

Understand that a strong liberal arts education, including athletic, artistic, and service endeavors, is a vital piece of our academic blueprint. 

Actively encourage parents to partner with DSST and to play significant roles in the daily lives and work of their children. 

Personalized

Create a community where each student is known and supported to achieve his/her potential.

Provide an advisory where each student has personalized adult guidance and understands his/her unique place in the larger school community. 

Instill in students the desire and the knowledge of how to pursue independent learning.

Teach with the aim of producing outstanding individual student learning results, not to adhere to a particular pedagogical philosophy that dictates how we teach.

Rigorous 

Create a campus environment in which everyone gives their best effort daily, provides the foundation for all students to succeed, and supports their efforts to do so.

Create a world-class academic culture where core academic goals apply to all students.

Provide academic programs centered on the belief that students need a strong foundation in each academic discipline to engage in rigorous project-based work.

Achieve mastery in a set of core performance standards (writing, reading, math, science, critical thinking) that produces college- and career-ready graduates.

Build thinkers who have the skills to solve real-world problems through the ability to understand, analyze, apply, and synthesize ideas and knowledge.

Assess student learning in ways that challenge students to demonstrate mastery in a variety of forms, methods and settings.

I. Campus Policies

Closed Campus 1. Closed Campus

DSST’s campuses are closed. This means, when on campus during academic hours, students must always be in class and under the supervision of an adult. The exception to this closed campus policy is during lunch for Juniors and Seniors when both the school and parents give permission for off-campus lunch privileges. Students who leave campus without authorization will receive a discipline consequence.  Upon first dismissal, students who are excused may leave campus if they do not have other obligations (clubs, athletics, academic or discipline obligations).

Students who must leave campus early are required to be picked up by an individual authorized in Infinite Campus (with valid identification) who will sign the student out at the front desk. As missing class and instructional time can have a detrimental effect on a student’s performance, we ask that parents only sign students out for urgent reasons, and try to schedule appointments before and after school as much as possible, so that the student misses as little instructional time as possible.

Attendance 2. Attendance

Daily Attendance: We believe every student's daily presence is irreplaceable to our communities. The high expectations DSST holds for each student makes daily attendance imperative. Engagement and connectedness in the classroom and larger school community are critical to the learning process, individual and collective growth. Every minute of school matters, and we expect students to be in all classes, on time, every day unless the absence is Excused.. Our network-wide goal for Attendance, and for every individual student, is 95%. 

Attendance Communication: In the event of a necessary absence, a parent/guardian must call the school attendance line 303.524.6320 and report the absence by 8:20 a.m. Include the student's name, date of absence, reason for absence and parent/guardian contact number.  This notification does not automatically excuse the absence (see Excused/Unexcused Absence Policy below).

Doctor visits or other circumstances require a note from a parent/guardian detailing the time to be excused, reason for leaving, approximate time of return and parent/guardian phone number. The student will be excused from class and may leave class when the parent/guardian arrives at the main office. 

Families and students have consistent access to see attendance and tardy percentages using parent and student portal. Please check the attendance of your student at least once a week, if not every day.

Definitions

Excused Absences (written statements from appropriate entities may be required):

Illness: fever, contagious disease, illness rendering student to bed rest (Doctor’s note required after the second day of absence)

  • Illness: fever, contagious disease, illness rendering student to bed rest (Doctor’s note required for any absence after 10 absences) 
  • Injury resulting in temporary physical disability (Communication with Doctor regarding disability required)
  • Physical, Mental, or Emotional Disability (Communication with Doctor regarding disability required)
  • Family Emergency 
  • Legal Circumstance (notification from appropriate Judicial Office required)
    • Student is in the custody of Law Enforcement
    • Student has mandatory appearances with the Courts
    • Student is in the custody of Human Services 
  • School service absences (absences that occur as a result of participation in school activities that are authorized and pre-approved by the school leader)

The School Leadership must approve absence in advance for any reason other than those stated above.

For students with disabilities who are supported through an IEP or Section 504 plan, additional considerations for attendance may need to be considered.  

Unexcused Absences are defined as those that do not meet the above criteria. 

These are defined as absences that do not meet the requirements of excused absences (above) and/or absences without parent and school permission.  

  • Absences not properly reported by the parent/guardian  
  • As stated above, a school leader will review all absences that do not meet the requirements above 

School Systems: Accountability, Celebration, & Discipline 

In order to ensure 100% of students have the tools, skills, and support needed to fully engage in learning, the DSST: Staff has created a range of systems and strategies, as well as a Network and School based Attendance Team that includes members of the school administration, mental health team, school culture team, and front office team. The role of the Attendance team is to clearly monitor student attendance, outline clear roles and responsibilities for all school stakeholders related to attendance, celebrate students who are meeting attendance goals and intervene as needed to support students who are struggling to consistently attend classes.  

 

Threshold

School Systems

Universal 

  • Daily communication to families about student attendance by 10 am each day
  • Robo Call for 2 Unexcused Absences 
  • Trimester Awards Ceremony
  • Academic Make-Up Policies for student absences
  • Attendance tracking and Advisory competition

>94%

  • Attendance Awards
  • Raffles
  • School Store Points

90 - 94%

  • Advisor Contact Student/Family
  • Attendance Growth Recognition

81 - 89%

  • Attendance Guardian/Student Meeting with Advisor
  • Attendance Contract & Warning

< 80%

  • Attendance Guardian/Student Meeting with member of Attendance Team
  • Attendance Contract & Support Plan 
  • All Attendance Steps documented in Infinite Campus
  • Truancy Warning
  • Home Visit as Needed
  • File Truancy (in compliance with APS/DPS policy)



Truancy

Per Denver Public Schools’ Policy JE/JE-R, a habitually truant student is defined as a pupil who has four unexcused absences or truancies in any month or ten unexcused absences or truancies during any school year and is between the ages of seven and sixteen, if enrolled in the first grade or above.  

Once a student is determined to be habitually truant, a member of the Attendance team will notify the student’s parents/guardian in writing of the student’s unexcused absences and of the fact that the student is habitually truant. At that time, the school will develop a plan with the goal of assisting the child to remain in school. School personnel will make reasonable efforts to meet with the parent/guardian to review and evaluate the reasons for the child’s truancy.

Tardiness

Being prompt to all school commitments is an important student expectation. Students are required to be at school on time. The school doors open at 8:05 am and attendance is taken at 8:20 am. A parent/guardian will be notified in cases of habitual tardiness. Should there be an emergency that prevents a student from being on time, the parent/guardian should call the office or send a signed note which will excuse the tardiness. 

Consequences:

  • Students who arrive 1-3 minutes late to a class period (without a teacher pass) will earn a Responsibility Prep. (Teacher Assigns)
  • Students who arrive more than 3 minutes late to a class period (without a teacher pass) will receive a Dean Intervention. (Teacher Assigns)

Habitual Tardiness: A parent/guardian will be notified in cases of habitual tardiness. The parent/guardian will be expected to meet with the school team to create and implement a plan to correct the problem. Should there be an emergency that prevents a student from being on time, the parent/guardian should call the office or send a signed note which will excuse the tardiness.

Standardized Testing and Final Exam Attendance: To assess the effectiveness of DSST’s rigorous, integrated and personalized academic curriculum, students are required to be present and take various scheduled standardized tests and final exams. Attendance and promptness is expected in all classes and is essential for assessing student progress. The opportunity to adequately assess learning is lost due to absences.

Other Attendance Policies:  When a student is absent from school or from assigned classes, the school will notify a parent/guardian as quickly as possible.  If a student’s academic progress is compromised because of absence, reasonable effort will be made to notify the parent/guardian in advance so remedial action can be taken.  Students with excused or unexcused absences are responsible for work missed and are expected to make it up for their own benefit. 

Special Attendance Circumstances: Students who will be absent due to religious holidays must obtain administrative pre- approval. Absences due to college visits should be scheduled when school is not in session or will be included in the allowed absences each 12 weeks. Administrative exceptions may be granted for a planned program or a pre-arranged appointment with a specific college administrator if verified in writing and approved in advance by the Director of College Success. Students who are absent for an "educationally valuable experience" other than a field trip may receive an excused absence if the following criteria are met:

  1. The absence must be pre-approved at least one week in advance.
  2. There must be written educational objectives for the trip. The teachers will initial the pre-approved request form indicating knowledge of the anticipated absences and the student's receipt of the supplemental assignments.
  3. The pre-arranged absence request will be reviewed by the Dean.
  4. All educational experience absences must be excused within ten calendar days of the student's return to school following the trip

Family Resources

Arrival and Dismissal 3. Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival: Students should arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to the start of school unless prior arrangements have been made with a staff member. The building will not be open to students prior to the start of school unless arrangements have been made with a teacher. Students will not be permitted in the academic areas of the building before school starts unless the student has a set appointment. 

Dismissal: There are two dismissal times for each academic day. A student’s activities, behavioral status, and after school activity or intervention commitments will determine dismissal time. The building will close to all students after they are dismissed daily, unless prior arrangements are made. Dismissal explanations are as follows:

  • First Dismissal:  Students who have not been asked to stay after school by a staff member will be dismissed at first dismissal to go home, or attend after school sports or clubs. Students attending clubs and sports will be dismissed according to the club/sport schedule. Students involved in sports may be dismissed from the practice or game location.
  • Second Dismissal:  Students who are required to stay as a result of disciplinary action or have not completed will be released at second dismissal.  The school will use the Primary Household Phone Number, as designated in Infinite Campus, to notify parents that day if their child must stay for second dismissal. If families prefer an alternative number to be used for contact, they can request a change with the school’s front office team. In the event of an emergency, students will be allowed to make alternative arrangements to attend Tutoring/College Prep or Refocus.  Prior transportation arrangements or alternative activities do not constitute an emergency situation.

Parents/guardians should check their child’s homework nightly, know their child’s sports and tutoring schedule (when applicable) and be prepared to make alternate transportation arrangements when their student is required to stay until second dismissal.

Dress Code_Uniform 4. Dress Code/Uniform

Student Dress Code

Middle School 

High School


  1. All dress must be appropriate and schools hold discretion to make judgment calls on any specific student’s attire. Attire that promotes inappropriate topics is not permitted, including: violence, drugs, tobacco, alcohol, gangs, sex/nudity, or anything else deemed derogatory or harmful. 
  2. Tops: 
    1. DSST top, except on earned dress-down days
    2. No undergarments should be visible
  3. Bottoms: 
    1. Bottoms that fully cover undergarments (no part of underwear, undershorts, or bras can be showing). 
  4. Shoes:
    1. Any close-toed shoes are allowed, including Crocs. 
    2. For potentially hazardous labs/activities, shoes ‘must completely cover the foot’ according to Flinn Scientific lab guidelines. Therefore, no Crocs or sandals are allowed during some labs/activities decided at teacher and school discretion. 

  5. Headwear:
    1. Hoodies are allowed, but no hoods can be up on any student at any time. 
    2. Headcoverings (hats, beanies, bonnets and du rags) are allowed.
    3. But head coverings cannot be distracting to the learning environment and cannot cover student’s ears so staff can determine if earbuds are being used (The exception to this is religious head coverings).

 

 

  1. All dress must be appropriate and schools hold discretion to make judgment calls on any specific student’s attire. Attire that promotes inappropriate topics is not permitted, including: violence, drugs, tobacco, alcohol, gangs, sex/nudity, or anything else deemed derogatory or harmful. 
  2. Tops: 
    1. Any appropriate top– does not have to be a DSST top like middle school
    2. No undergarments should be visible
  3. Bottoms: 
    1. Bottoms that fully cover undergarments (no part of underwear, undershorts, or bras can be showing). 
  4. Shoes:
    1. Any close-toed shoes are allowed, including Crocs. 
    2. For potentially hazardous labs/activities, shoes ‘must completely cover the foot’ according to Flinn Scientific lab guidelines. Therefore, no Crocs or sandals are allowed during some labs/activities decided at teacher and school discretion. 

  5. Headwear:
    1. Hoodies are allowed, but no hoods can be up on any student at any time. 
    2. Headcoverings (hats, beanies, bonnets and du rags) are allowed.
    3. But head coverings cannot be distracting to the learning environment and cannot cover student’s ears so staff can determine if earbuds are being used (The exception to this is religious head coverings).



Rationale:  Requiring a minimal dress code keeps the focus on what matters: learning.  In addition, our dress code policy directly relates to safety, visibility, and the ability to identify students in the case of an emergency. 

Parents_Guardians And Visitors 5. Parents/Guardians and Visitors

All parents/guardians and visitors must sign-in and sign-out at the front desk & show photo identification for background screening when they enter or leave the building. Parents/guardians are expected to abide by the school’s visitor rules and core values in all interactions with faculty, staff, administration, other parents and students. Visitor badges will be issued by a front office team member and visitors should wear them for the duration of their visit.

Alumni and former staff members are considered visitors and must follow all visitor policies and requirements, including signing in at the front office, wearing a visitor badge, and following all campus policies and core value expectations.

Parents/guardians and other visitors will be asked to leave campus if the school’s core values are not practiced. Visitors who make threats to staff members or other students or family members will be referred to law enforcement. Parents/guardians and visitors are asked to refrain from using their cell phones inside of the building. We ask that parents arrange classroom visits with the teacher or an admin staff member in advance of their visit.

Individuals who do not respect core values and who make threats or behave aggressively may be trespassed from the property and will be informed of such action through written notice.

Student Phone Usage 6. Student Phone Usage and Headphones

Use of Cell Phones & Headphones

Middle School 

High School

  1. Cell phones are not permitted to be visible in classrooms or common spaces, including hallways, the cafeteria, and outdoors on break. 
  2. Cell phones should be stored in the student’s pocket, backpack, or locker and are out of sight at all times of the school day.  
  3. Headphones used with computers only may be used for instructional purposes at the discretion of the teacher, but the school must have clear beliefs and policies on this for teachers, and teachers should be calibrated (e.g., can teachers allow students to use headphones regularly during independent practice?). This may look different by grade level but is a school-wide decision. 
  1. Cell phones are not permitted to be visible in the classroom, but may be permitted in common spaces at the discretion of the school.  
  2. Headphones used with computers only may be used for instructional purposes at the discretion of the teacher, but the school must have clear beliefs and policies on this for teachers, and teachers should be calibrated (e.g., can teachers allow students to use headphones regularly during independent practice?). This may look different by grade level but is a school-wide decision. 


Rationale: Decrease barriers and distractions to learning; gradual release of responsibility to use tech responsibly at school in upper grades.

Deliveries to students 7. Deliveries to Students

Food delivery to students is not allowed, unless the delivery is brought by a family member. Families should direct all deliveries to the main office.

II. Academic Policies

academic honor code 1. Academic Honor Code

DSST believes that a commitment to the Core Values is integral to ensuring that we are all learning and growing in the classroom and beyond. Because of this commitment, we take academic integrity very seriously. The Academic Honor Code is a student commitment to the core values of Integrity and Responsibility – a commitment to honesty and to taking ownership of our actions in the classroom.

Academic Honor Code violations include plagiarism, cheating and copying.  Additionally, any of the following acts, without full acknowledgement of the original source, are also violations of the Academic Honor Code:

  • Direct duplication by copying another’s work, whether from a book, article, web site, another student’s assignment, etc.
  • Allowing another student to copy an assignment
  • Inclusion of images, text or other forms of media, in whole or in part, from the internet or other electronic resource without proper citation
  • Duplication in any manner of another student’s work during a quiz, test, or exam
  • Possessing any unauthorized documents or resources during class time, including crib sheets, calculators or the internet
  • Paraphrasing another’s work closely, with minor changes, but with the essential meaning, form, and/or progression of ideas
  • Piecing together sections of other works into a new whole
  • Submitting one’s own work that has previously been submitted for assessment purposes in another subject or at another school
  • Producing assignments with other people (another student, a tutor) that should be your own independent work
  • Using often-quoted phrases without citation
  • Pressuring others to violate the Academic Honor Code
  • Presenting group work as your independent work, or presenting an individual’s work as that of a group
  • Falsifying or fabricating information, data, or sources

Potential Consequences of Academic Honor Code Violations: 

  • 1st Academic Honor Code Violation:
    • Receive a failing grade (50%) on the assignment
    • Serve a Dean intervention
    • Complete extensive intervention assignments (reflection essays, interviews, research, etc.)
  • 2nd Academic Honor Code Violation:
    • Receive a failing grade (50%) on the assignment
    • Serve an In School Suspension
    • Complete extensive intervention assignments (reflection essays, interviews, research, etc.)

Students may be asked to report disciplinary or academic infractions in their college and/or scholarship applications, which is aligned to our core value of integrity. In these cases, we require students to self-report these infractions, and our campus college success teams will support students in responding to these questions and meeting these application requirements.

Each student will attend an Academic Honor Code mini-course. The course will cover principles of academic integrity, review the Academic Honor Code and allow students to ask questions to ensure that they understand and can abide by the Academic Honor Code. Students are required to sign the Academic Honor Code pledge (see below) and commit to upholding it throughout the year.  Families will also be asked to sign a statement of support.

Academic Honor Code Pledge:  I accept the responsibilities for maintaining Integrity and Responsibility in all academic work, in maintaining and promoting personal academic integrity, and to only submit individual work that is completely my own or properly cited.

academic effort 2. Academic Effort

DSST fosters a rigorous academic environment that prepares students to excel in college and the 21st century.  We believe consistently living a commitment to our Core Value of Doing Your Best is critical to academic success – the strength of our community is built on the shared effort of each community member and it is only through a commitment to every person giving their best effort, every day, on all academic work, that each student can be successful. 

Homework: DSST assigns homework to students on a nightly basis. We believe that homework assignments are meaningful and serve the important purpose of reinforcing previous learning  from the classroom to further mastery of conceptions and skills. We also believe homework has academic benefits as well as developmental benefits. It helps build responsibility, time-management skills and independent problem-solving skills.  Development of such skills is essential to a student’s success at DSST, in college, and beyond. 

Each night, students are expected to complete all homework in a thorough manner, paying attention to detail and quality.  Completion of homework assignments is mandatory. 

Targeted Academic Interventions (such as College Prep): College Prep (CP) or other forms of targeted interventions are assigned to all students who do not complete homework assignments or need additional academic support. Assigned students are required to stay after school or other identified times during the academic day to complete their assignments or other academic related work. CP is a mandatory commitment. Schools have the sole discretion in determining whether or not a student’s homework is deemed complete and/or acceptable.  Students may also be assigned CP for unorganized work and materials, or any other academic related need as determined by the school.

Parents/Guardians will be notified prior to first dismissal if their student must stay for CP. 

CP takes precedence over other after school commitments including DSST athletics and clubs. Prior transportation arrangement DOES NOT constitute an emergency situation, nor do other obligations deemed “non-emergencies” by faculty or staff. 

Failure to report to CP will result in mandatory attendance at CP/RF or an intervention on the next academic day as well as a consequence deemed appropriate by the Dean (morning or afternoon detention, community restorations, silent lunch, Saturday school, suspension, etc.) 

Homework - Parent/Guardian Role: Parents/guardians must be aware and supportive of their child’s homework requirements and effort.

For students with disabilities who are supported through an IEP or Section 504 plan, additional considerations for homework and interventions such as College Prep may need to be considered in accordance with the student’s documented needs.  This must include accessibility for students to complete homework assignments independently and may include exemptions from homework assignments and interventions such as College Prep.

advisory program 3. Advisory Program

DSST’s Advisory Program is an essential part of creating a powerful learning community centered on core values and fulfilling the principle of personalization. Each year, students are assigned to an Advisor with a group of other students. The Advisor is committed to knowing each advisee, to providing guidance and support and to creating a strong sense of community.  The Advisory Program provides an important human’ context for academic planning, goal-setting, school-to-home communications, team building and reflection, and social-emotional learning. Advisors serve as the primary contact for parents/guardians and facilitate communication between teachers and other resource personnel.  Parents/guardians with general concerns should first contact the advisor, who will resolve the situation or facilitate further conversations.    If parents have questions regarding a student’s programming within a 504 Plan or IEP, the student’s Advisor will connect the family with the student’s IEP case manager or 504 coordinator.

The primary goals of the DSST Advisory Program are as follows:

  1. Teach, strengthen and live the DSST Core Values in and out of the school community
  2. Provide adult and peer support both personal (social, emotional, behavioral) and academic skills
  3. Establish camaraderie and accountability in a smaller group within the larger DSST community
  4. Recognize and celebrate individual and community accomplishments and growth

grades 4. Grades

Students will receive letter grades for each completed class. The letter grades represent a performance descriptor (outstanding, very good, etc.) and are assigned to the quality of a student’s completed work.  For purposes of determining a weighted grade point average, see the table below.

ALL GRADE LEVELS

HIGH SCHOOL ONLY

Grade

Performance Descriptor

Points

Non-AP Classes

Honors Classes

AP Classes

A+

Outstanding

99-100

4.25

4.75

5.25

A

Excellent

90-98

4.00

4.5

5.0

B+

Very Good

88-89

3.25

3.75

4.25

B

Good

80-87

3.00

3.5

4.0

C+

Average

78-79

2.25

2.75

3.25

C

Satisfactory

70-77

2.00

2.5

3.0


Grades below a “C”: “D” grades are not given at DSST. Any work that is deemed unsatisfactory does not receive a passing grade.  Students who earn below a “C” in a course will be given one of two grades:

  • I: Incomplete
  • F: Failing Grade

Incomplete: A student will earn an Incomplete (“I”) under the following circumstance:

  • An extended excused emergency leave during which a student missed a portion of the work that needs to be made up. 
  • Students who earn an Incomplete (“I”) will be given the opportunity to complete specified work over a defined period of time to earn a C in the class. If the work is not completed satisfactorily at the end of this prescribed time, the student will receive a failing grade.

Failing Grade: Students who receive a Failing Grade (“F”) have demonstrated inadequate performance and will not be given a chance to redo poor quality or incomplete work unless this need is documented as part of a formalized plan including a Section 504 Plan or IEP. 

Composite Grading (Middle School Only): Quarters will be averaged equally for a students year-long grade.

GPA Weighting (High School Only): Final grades will be weighted in accordance with the table above. Certain courses (ex: Honors Physics) are designated as “earned honors” courses. In order to receive the honors weighting in these classes, students must pass the final exam with a 70 or higher in addition to passing the class overall. Honors, AP and classes are designated as such in the title of the course.  At this point, Freshman Physics is the only class that is designated as Earned Honors. Students and parents will be updated if any additional classes become available for Earned Honors.

Middle School Grading - Category Weighting: 

All Middle School classes use the following breakdown to determine grades at the end of each quarter:

 

6th-8th Grade

Practice and Participation

40%

Formative Assessments

30%

Summative Assessments

30%

**Note: Schools may deviate from the aforementioned policy, and will communicate relevant changes.  

High School Grading - Category Weighting:

All High School classes use the following breakdown to determine grades at the end of each semester: 

 

9th-12th Grade

Practice and Preparation (P&P), Classwork, Homework

30%

Formative Assessments

20%

Summative Assessments

30%

Final Exam and Performance Assessments

20%

 

Missing Work, Make-Up Work

After absences, students are responsible for making up missed homework, quizzes and tests.  Students will have the opportunity to complete missing work during appropriately assigned times that are scheduled throughout the school year.  See Appendix C for the current Make-Up Work Policy.

Effort Grades

Students are given effort grades with each report card.  These grades do not reflect ability, solely effort (in-class participation, homework effort and overall willingness to learn).   Effort grades are given on the following scale:

             5:  Excellent

             4:  Good

             3:  Satisfactory

             2: Needs Improvement

             1:  Unsatisfactory

Elective and Seminar Grades

Elective classes are typically graded on the same scale as core academic classes but can vary based on campus. 

Core Value Grades:  

Each semester, students are assessed on how well they live DSST’s Core Values. Core Value assessment is initiated by the student’s Advisor and confirmed by the grade-level teaching team. Core Value scores are based on daily actions inside and outside of the classroom. Core Value grades are given on the following scale for each of the six Core Values.

5:  Excellent

4:  Good

3:  Satisfactory

2:  Needs Improvement

1:  Unsatisfactory


For students with disabilities who are supported through an IEP or Section 504 plan, additional considerations for grading  may need to be considered in accordance with the student’s documented needs.  This may include but is not limited to exemption from assignments, extended time for completion, additional opportunities to make-up work and accommodated weighting.  

report cards 5. Report Cards and Progress Reports

The school year is divided into two semesters (each made up of two quarters). Students receive report cards at the end of each semester in HS and at the end of each quarter in MS.  At the conclusion of the first quarter and the third quarter, parents/guardians and students must attend a conference with the Advisor to receive report cards/progress reports.  At the end semester one and at the end of the year, final grades in each course will be recorded on student transcripts..

Progress reports will be issued periodically every 4 weeks (roughly). These progress reports must be read and signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the student’s Advisor. 

In addition, students with disabilities who are being supported through an IEP will have a formal Progress Report update completed at the end of each quarter.

honors and awards 6. Honors and Awards

Traditions and Rituals: Our communities are grounded in traditions and rituals. Without traditions and rituals that mark accomplishment or symbolic recognition, communities and individuals very often miss out on renewal of hope, spirit, and pride.  In our community, we believe traditions and rituals are an important part of the experience and expression of humanity. As communities that believe in the power of the human condition and adhere to the importance of our Core Values, we have to ensure collective learning is fostered through traditions and rituals that reinvigorate cultural cohesion as connection is made to a higher purpose and ties to our past that brings new life to our present. Each convening of the community brings people together, connecting us all to our shared Core Values, collective and individual identities, and reinforcing our core purposes. 

School Administration have the discretion to set their specific student honors and awards at their respective schools.

middle school promotion 7. Middle School Promotion Requirements

To be promoted to the next grade, all students must:

  1. Pass all Core Classes with Grades of 70% or higher. The composite final grade will be used to make this determination.

Core Classes include:

  • Integrated Literacy
  • Math
  • Science 
  • Social Studies

If a student fails to meet the above criteria, they will be eligible for retention. DSST’s middle school retention policy is as follows:

  • A student who fails one or two core classes may be eligible for summer school based on additional assessment data.  If eligible, summer school will provide the opportunity to earn a passing grade in that course over the summer. This includes passing the end of summer school course assessment. If a student does not attend summer school or pass the class in the summer, the student may be required to stay back in his/her current grade.
  • A student who fails three or more core classes is likely to be retained in his/her current grade in the following school year. DSST staff will review a variety of measures in addition to course grades to make the final determination.
  • Any student in Special Education that falls under these categories, will have additional review measures taken to determine promotion, retention, or summer school eligibility. 

DSST holds the sole right to choose one of the following courses of action for any student that does not meet promotion requirements. 

  • Require the student to repeat the current grade.
  • Require the student to complete work over the summer of which the scope and expectations are defined by DSST.

Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive written and verbal notification from the school during every trimester regarding their student’s status as it relates to promotion requirements. The school will send additional notification during the third trimester should the school be seriously considering retaining a student in their current grade. The school will communicate expectations to the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) about what must be done to avoid being retained. A final decision will be made following the conclusion of the school year. 

Acceleration: Acceleration of a student’s coursework or grade-level will be made on a case-by-case basis by the school director in collaboration with the student’s parents or guardians. This decision will be based on the student’s academic performance, social-emotional readiness, input of the school’s staff and a suitability of courses to serve them.

High school promotion 8. High School Promotion Requirements

To be promoted to the next grade, all students must:

  • Pass all classes with grades of 70% or higher. 
  • Be on track to complete graduation requirements by the end of senior year. 
  • Demonstrate a consistent commitment to living the core values of our school community.
  • Demonstrate a satisfactory academic commitment to participate in classes, complete homework and projects and take one’s education seriously.
  • Complete an academic internship successfully (11th grade year)
  • Complete a Senior Project (12th grade)

 Should a student not pass his/her core classes, the following policies apply:

  • A student who fails one core class will be eligible for summer school and will have the opportunity to earn a passing grade in that course over the summer.  A student must attend summer school and earn a 70 or higher in the course to pass it. If a student does not attend summer school or pass the class in summer, the student may be required to stay back in his/her current grade.
  • A student who fails two core classes may be retained in his/her current grade in the following school year. Staff will review a variety of measures in addition to course grades to determine if the student will be retained or if they will be eligible for summer school.
    • Students that are determined to be eligible for summer school must attend and earn a 70 or higher in their courses to pass them. If a student does not attend summer school or pass their classes in summer,the student will be required to stay back in his/her current grade.
  • A student who fails three or more core classes will likely be retained in his/her current grade in the following school year.  Staff will review a variety of measures in addition to course grades to make the final determination.
  • Any student in Special Education that falls under these categories, will have additional review measures taken to determine promotion, retention, or summer school eligibility. 

DSST holds the sole right to choose one of the following courses of action for any student that does not meet promotion requirements: 

  • Require the student to repeat the current grade.
  • Require the student to complete work over the summer of which the scope and expectations are defined by DSST.
  • Retake a course in the next grade.

Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive written and verbal notification from the school during every trimester regarding their student’s status as it relates to promotion requirements. The school will send additional notification during the third trimester should the school be seriously considering retaining a student in their current grade. The school will communicate expectations to the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) about what must be done to avoid being retained. A final decision will be made following the conclusion of the school year.

Acceleration: Acceleration of a student’s coursework or grade-level will be made on a case-by-case basis by the school director in collaboration with the student’s parents or guardians. This decision will be based on the student’s academic performance, social-emotional readiness, input of the school’s staff and a suitability of courses to serve them.

graduation requirements 9. Graduation Requirements

Course Requirements:

Required Coursework:  The coursework at DSST is designed to give students the opportunity to meet the college entrance requirements for competitive schools as well as to pursue more advanced topics and independent study. 

Coursework for DSST Students:

Subject

Core Academic Program

Humanities

4 years including:  

  • Humanities/Geography (9th grade)
  • Composition (9th grade)
  • World Literature (10th grade)
  • American Literature (11th grade)
  • Senior English (12th grade) 
  • World History (10th grade)
  • U.S. History (11th grade)
  • Civics (12th grade)

Mathematics

4 Years including:

  • Integrated Algebra/Geometry  I (9th grade)
  • Integrated Algebra/Geometry II (9th grade OR 10th grade)
  • Algebra II/Algebra 2 Honors (10th grade OR 11th grade)
  • Pre-Calculus/Pre-Calculus Honors (11th grade OR 12th grade)
  • AP Calculus (12th grade)
    • AB (Course 1)
    • BC (Course 2)

Natural Sciences

3 Years including:

  • Physics (typically 9th grade)
  • Chemistry (typically 10th grade)
  • Biology (typically 11th grade)

STEM or Creative Core

2 Years including:

  • STEM or Creative Core Elective which can be completed at any point in 9th grade – 12th grade (e.g. Creative Engineering)
  • Additional STEM or Creative Core course (12th grade)  

Foreign Language (Spanish)

3 Years (of a single language - Spanish)

Physical Education

2 Semesters or an acceptable equivalent approved by the school.

Internship

1 Quarter (11th grade)

Senior Project

1 Semester (12th grade)

 

The table below lists the number of years in each subject students must take to meet DSST expectations:

Courses

Years

English

4

Social Sciences

3

Math

4

Science

3

STEM/Creative Core

2

Language

3

Physical Education

1

Electives

4

Total

24

 

Graduation Requirements:

In addition to physical education requirement (one year), a student must meet all of the requirements outlined below to earn a diploma from DSST Public Schools. Only students who earn a diploma are permitted to participate in graduation activities.

Criteria

Core Academic Program

Coursework

Successful completion of all required courses as listed above

GPA

Overall C or higher 

Standardized Tests

Completion of CMAS and SAT

College and Post-secondary Planning

Meet with college counselor to map out college applications, post-secondary plan, and FAFSA completion. Utilize Overgrad for application submission.

Internship

Complete 1 internship

Senior Project

Complete 1 Senior Project

Competency Requirements

Demonstrate competency through in-class measures or performance on selected national assessments**

**Competency requirements will be communicated in more detail by your school administration.  

Students with disabilities who are supported through an IEP or Section 504 plan, may require additional considerations for graduation requirements including course exemptions.  Any departure from the core program requirements must be submitted through a formal exemption process and be approved by the network.

III. Discipline

The DSST community is founded on the six core values of Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Courage, Curiosity and Doing Your Best. The Core Values foster self-improvement, individual growth and character development and help define our shared expectations. For personal benefit and that of the entire school community, students are expected to consistently live the core values and support their peers in doing so. School staff have the right and responsibility to manage student conduct and to ensure an orderly and safe learning environment.  Conduct that disrupts learning, threatens school operations, interferes with the rights and privileges of community members, endangers health and safety or damages property will not be permitted.

DSST’s core values frame a set of specific expectations. Unpredictable situations and circumstances will arise and will be handled with common sense and in a manner consistent with the guidelines and policies established herein.  Behavioral consequences will always be determined with mutual respect for all involved parties, focused on the safety and development of our students. DSST will make every effort to ensure that behavior consequences are explicit, timely, consistent, age-appropriate, involve parents, respect individual differences, maximize student learning and ultimately address the needs of the student, as well as the overall school community.

Behavioral expectations apply during school, on school grounds, at school sanctioned activities or events, in school vehicles and at school functions that occur off campus. Any violation of school rules during these times will result in disciplinary measures and/or notification of law enforcement authorities.  Behaviors that happen outside of this context, but still end up impacting students or the community on campus during the school day, can also result in disciplinary measures. 

Students with disabilities who are supported through an IEP or Section 504 plan, may require additional considerations for discipline responses in accordance with their documented needs.  Collaboration between the school based Special Education Administrator and Culture leaders will occur prior to any disciplinary decisions.

student behavioral expectations 1. Student Behavioral Expectations

Communication: Students are expected to communicate respectfully with teachers and peers in their actions and words.  Examples of unacceptable behavior may include, but are not limited to: using profane language and/or gestures, ignoring or refusing to complete a staff request, disrupting class or any other student’s learning, threatening, slandering, bullying, discriminating, engaging in any behavior deemed to be harassment due to gender, race, ethnicity, etc., engaging in any behavior deemed to be a Title IX offence (i.e. sexual harassment, inappropriate sexual contact), being dishonest, stealing and/or fighting.

Expectation of Ownership: Students are expected to take ownership of their behavior, actions, personal commitments and commitments to the community.  When students make poor choices, we will support them and hold them accountable so that they are able to take full responsibility for their behavior and commit to do better in the future.

Reporting Breaches of School Policy: For the safety and wellbeing of the school community, all students are expected to report breaches of school policy as soon as they are aware of the problem. Staff members will respect student privacy when concerns are reported.  In some cases, students who do not participate in breaches of school policy, but are aware of such situations and do not report them may be assigned consequences due to their inaction.  Students who witness questionable activity should talk to their Advisor or an administrator right away.

rules 2. Rules

DSST has School Administration have the discretion to set their specific student rules at their respective schools.

policies 3. Policies

Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco: Possession, distribution, use or sale of alcohol, tobacco, vapes, or illicit drugs is prohibited on school grounds, at any school-sanctioned activity, in school vehicles, or at any time or in any place where such conduct interferes with or obstructs the educational program/operations of the school, or the health and safety of the community. Distribution includes situations where a student brings drugs or controlled substances to share.  Selling includes bartering or exchanging controlled substances for another item or a gift.

As required by law and/or the school district’s discipline policies, or at the discretion of the school, violation of this policy will lead to disciplinary measures, including possible suspension, a report to authorities, and a possible recommendation for expulsion.

Weapons: Knives, explosives or weapons of any type are not permitted in school, on campus, in school vehicles or at any off-campus, school-related activities or events. Possession of any such weapons or items that appear to be weapons will result in consequences aligned to the district’s discipline policies, including potential  police involvement and possible expulsion per district policy. 

  • DSST Denver Campuses: Guns are not permitted anywhere on campus or at any off-campus, school-related activities or events. In accordance with Denver Public Schools policy, possession of a gun will be considered a Type 6 offense, automatic expulsion for one full calendar year. 
  • DSST Aurora Campuses: Guns are not permitted anywhere on campus or at any off-campus, school-related activities or events. In accordance with Aurora Public Schools policy, possession of a gun will be considered a Level 5 Offense, automatic expulsion for one full calendar year.

Gang Activity: The purpose of this policy is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of those in the school community and to prevent the initiation or continuation of gang membership and gang activity at DSST.

Pursuant to state law, the term “gang” refers to all groups of three or more individuals who share a common interest, bond, or activity characterized by criminal, delinquent, or otherwise disruptive conduct engaged in collectively or individually.

Prohibition of gang-related actions will be determined at the discretion of the staff.  Consequences will be determined according to the circumstances of the infraction. DSST conducts on-going communication with Aurora and Denver law enforcement agencies regarding this policy.

Student Searches and Seizures: School property is under the control of the school. If reasonable suspicion exists (illegal, disruptive, general nuisance to the educational process), searches on school property (including, but not limited to, lockers and vehicles parked on school property) may be conducted at the discretion of the administration.  Upon reasonable suspicion of illegal or unauthorized materials, school authorities may search a student’s person and/or personal property, desk area or backpack. School officials may detain students upon reasonable suspicion that they possess drugs, narcotics, weapons, explosives or other dangerous contraband that constitute clear and imminent danger to the safety and welfare of community/property. School authorities are permitted to seize any items that are found to be detrimental to the school community/property for evidence. Furthermore, school officials will notify parents/guardians and law enforcement agencies of such possession.

Physical Restraint: Corporal punishment is defined as intentional infliction of physical pain as a method of changing behavior. Under no circumstances will corporal punishment be administered at DSST.  In partnership with Aurora Public Schools’ and Denver Public Schools’ policies, physical restraint and intervention by trained staff is allowed in situations where:

  • Reasonable physical restraint and/or time-out as a means to protect the student being restrained or others from a serious, probable, imminent threat of bodily harm;
  • In cases of emergency when other less restrictive alternatives have failed or the staff member determines that such alternatives would be inappropriate or ineffective under the circumstances;
  • An emergency is a serious, probable, imminent threat of bodily harm to self or others where there is the present ability to effect such harm.

Any such acts are not in conflict with the legal definition of child abuse and will not be construed to constitute corporal punishment within the meaning and intention of this policy.

habitually disruptive student 4. Habitually Disruptive Student

In situations where students may be considered disruptive, DSST schools will follow policy outlined by DSST Public Schools Discipline Matrix. 

First Out of School Suspension in a school year: Parents/guardians will be notified.  A re-entry meeting may be required for the student and a parent/guardian to attend. 

Second Out of School Suspension in a school year: Student’s may be considered for a behavior plan and the student and parents/guardians will be notified in writing.  A re-entry meeting may be required for the student and a parent/guardian to attend. 

Third Out of School Suspension in a school year: Students may be declared habitually disruptive which could result in a recommendation for expulsion made to Aurora Public Schools, or  Denver Public Schools. Before making any recommendation, parents/guardians will be notified in writing.  A re-entry meeting may be required for the student and a parent/guardian to attend. 

actions that may warrant interventions 5. Actions that May Warrant Interventions or Suspensions

The following list is not exhaustive and is subject to modification/additions by either DSST Public Schools or Denver Public Schools, in accordance with Student Conduct and Discipline Procedures, Policy JK-R.

  • Bullying
  • Harassment
  • Destruction of school property
  • Theft
  • Fighting
  • Disobedient/defiant or repeated interference
  • Drug or alcohol possession, use, or distribution
  • Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Arson
  • Hazing
  • Witness intimidation/retaliation
  • Habitual disruption
  • Possession of a dangerous weapon

actions that will lead to expulsion hearing 6. Actions that will Lead to an Expulsion Hearing

Expulsion hearing criteria are outlined  by the DSST Public Schools policy, and by laws and regulations for the State of Colorado. 

Recommendation for expulsion hearings are mandatory for:

  • Robbery
  • First or second degree assault, and sexual assault
  • Sale or distribution of, or intent to sell or distribute, unauthorized drugs or controlled substances
  • Carrying, bringing, using, or possessing a dangerous weapon without the authorization of the school or District (including any firearm or firearm facsimile that could reasonably be mistaken for an actual firearm, spring action or compressed air devices such as BB guns, fixed-blade knives with blades longer than 3", pocket knives with blades longer than 3.5", spring-loaded knives, and any other objects used or intended to be used to inflict death or serious bodily injury)

Expulsion is mandatory under state law for:

  • Possession of a firearm

Additionally, DSST may recommend an expulsion hearing for offenses listed in DSST Public Schools Matrix, which include, but are not limited to:

  • Repeated Suspensions: Being suspended out of school three times over the course of a school year.
  • Gang-Related Activity:  Evidence of gang-related activity.
  • Serious Violation:  A more serious violation of school rules and expectations which the School Director and Dean deem the circumstances of that violation warrant a more significant consequence than suspension.
  • Drug and Tobacco Use: Violation of the drug and tobacco policy.

the discipline process 7. The Discipline Process

Discipline embedded in learning, restoration, and re-engagement: We believe that discipline is a lifelong process and must be collaborative, holistic, and shared by all members of the community.  Every human is striving to be the best version of themselves and we are relentless in assisting them in the development of essential skills and behaviors.  Therefore, all disciplinary actions are used to assist students in learning, restoration, and re-engagement. All DSST schools (both Aurora and Denver schools)  follow the guidance and guidelines of the DSST discipline beliefs,  policies and practices.

consequences 8. Consequences

The main purpose of disciplinary consequences is to assist as necessary in the learning, restoration, and/or re-engagement process of disciplinary actions. Additionally, they also assist in ensuring that students and the community is safe and that all are able to maintain complete focus on learning and growth.  Inappropriate student behavior impacts individuals and exacts a cost on the larger school community. Students must understand that they are accountable to their peers and to the core values and expectations of the community as a whole.  Family involvement is encouraged and expected to ensure prompt resolution of concerns and behaviors that do not align with our core values and our policies.

Disciplinary measures, depending upon the nature of the action and necessary student learning, may include the following interventions:

  • In-school Intervention
  • In School Suspension
  • Out of School Suspension
  • Restorative Conversations
  • Responsibility Prep 
  • Other determined actions determined for learning, restoration, or re-engagement needs

expulsion 9. Expulsion

DSST works closely with Aurora Public Schools and Denver Public Schools on situations where an expulsion hearing may be warranted. After a proper investigation, a student may be recommended for expulsion from DSST in accordance with both Aurora and Denver Public Schools’ policies. Parents/Guardians will be notified before a student is formally recommended for an expulsion hearing.

IV. Facility and Resource Policies

school property 1. School Property

Students must treat school property and equipment with care, respect and responsibility. School property includes, but is not limited to, the building and grounds, equipment, books and laptops. Actions that damage or harm school property may lead to the payment of restitution to the school and disciplinary consequences as outlined in the Discipline section of this handbook. Should the damage be deemed as an unintentional act, students may be given the option of reimbursing the school and/or completing community restoration.

textbooks 2. Textbooks

When required, school textbooks will be provided. Students must maintain the quality of each book, using a book cover if necessary. At the end of the year, the exact numbered copy issued must be returned to receive credit for the book.  Damaged or lost book fees will be assessed accordingly.

laptop computers 3. Laptop Computers

Upon parent/guardian and student signature of the Student and Family Handbook Contract, the student will be issued a laptop for the school year. Use of the laptop is a privilege - not a right - and can be revoked at any time.  Laptop use and all school technology resources are governed by DSST’s acceptable use policy. DSST reserves the right to enforce the Acceptable Use Policy and to limit or revoke a student’s privileges at any time.  Parents/guardians may not use the student’s email account to send emails to any student or group of students without the permission of the School Director. 

When laptops are distributed at the beginning of the year, or replaced at any time during the year, parents/guardians will be asked to review the condition of the computer and report any noticeable problems via the Laptop Checkout form. Parents/guardians will be asked to sign this form acknowledging acceptance of the laptop. 

Students are responsible for the proper care and use of laptops. In the event of damage, parents/guardians will be responsible for payment to repair or replace the equipment based on the cost to process the replacement. DSST will publish the cost for each replacement prior to the beginning of the school year.  Rates will be published and distributed to families at the beginning of each school year. Any time a damage fee is assessed, parents will have two weeks to inspect the laptop to verify the condition.

responsibility for personal property 4. Responsibility for Personal Property

All property brought to school is brought “at your own risk.” DSST will not assume responsibility for any personal property. Distracting or inappropriate objects will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day or parents/guardians will be contacted to pick up. Repeat violations will require a parent/guardian conference.

lost and found 5. Lost and Found

Periodically throughout the school year, items not claimed from the lost and found will be donated to charitable organizations.

school supplies 6. School Supplies

Students are responsible for obtaining appropriate school supplies for personal use. DSST will publish a school supply list prior to the beginning of each school year.  Students are expected to have required supplies by the first day of school. 

student resource fees 7. Student Resource Fees

Parents/Guardians of students who do not qualify for free or reduced lunch are asked to pay a student resource fee to support services provided by the school (e.g. student activities, technology). Parents/guardians of students who do qualify for free or reduced lunch are encouraged to support DSST’s academic program by contributing to a student resource fee. The student resource fee plays a significant role in providing a high quality educational experience by supplementing public funds, but is voluntary. Fees pertaining to optional aspects of the program, such as athletics, extra-curricular activities and clubs, may be required for students wishing to participate.  A fee schedule will be provided at the beginning of each school year.

V. General School Policies

non discrimination statement and title IX 1. Non-Discrimination Statement & Title IX

It is the policy of DSST to recruit, hire, train, educate, promote, and administer all personnel and instructional actions without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual-preference, age, national origin, disability, marital status, public assistance, or any legally protected classification. DSST will not tolerate any discrimination, and any such conduct is prohibited. DSST also prohibits any form of discipline or retaliation for reporting incidents. DSST Public Schools is committed to a policy that no otherwise qualified person shall be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to unlawful discrimination in its admissions, or under any School program or activity, on the basis of ethnicity, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability.

Consistent with these commitments, and in accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (“Title IX”), the School aims to provide a safe learning and working environment for students, employees and community members, and prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment, in its admission, educational programs and activities, and employment.

DSST Public Schools Title IX Procedures are located at  https://www.dsstpublicschools.org/title-ix.

The DSST Network of Schools has designated a central Network Title IX Coordinator to oversee the Network’s compliance with Title IX. That person is:

Samantha LaPres, DSST Network of Public Schools 3401 Quebec Street, Suite 2000 Denver, CO 80207 (303) 524-6324

For additional information about discrimination or to file a complaint, you may contact the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education at: Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310 Denver, Colorado 80204-3582 Telephone: 303-844-5695 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov Online: www.ed.gov/ocr

student special services 2. Student Special Services

SPECIAL EDUCATION

All DSST schools provide a continuum of services to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities with mild to moderate needs. Center-based programs are offered in select schools and may be accessed through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process based on individual students’ needs.  Location of Center Programs is facilitated by our Denver Public Schools and Aurora Public Schools.  

The IEP describes the specially designed services that will be provided to students. This includes instruction from specifically trained and licensed special education teachers and practitioners. Students may also receive support from nurses, mental health providers, speech/language and motor therapists. Eligibility is determined by a formal assessment process that uses criteria associated with specific disabilities. Within this evaluation process, families are provided information regarding their child’s eligibility and options for services.

If you believe your child may qualify for special education services, please contact your school to set up a meeting to discuss next steps.

 

DSST’s Vision for Special Education

In order to fulfill DSST’s mission to eliminate educational inequity and serve all students, we must serve students with disabilities with excellence, to ensure they are welcomed, known and challenged through rigorous academic instruction to achieve their most ambitious post-secondary path. This requires embracing DSST’s view of the human condition and executing on a common set of guiding principles, foundational practices, and key levers that will translate into transformational outcomes for our students with disabilities.  

SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT

Section 504 is a federal civil rights law that ensures students with disabilities are afforded “equal opportunity to obtain the same result, to gain the same benefit, or to reach the same level of achievement” as an average peer. To pursue eligibility, a student can be referred to the school’s Section 504 coordinator. A Section 504 team would convene to determine eligibility. If the student is found to be eligible, the Section 504 team would determine the student’s placement, services, and accommodations to help mitigate barriers caused by the impairment(s). Call your school for more information.

 

MULTILINGUAL EDUCATION

At DSST, we believe that every student’s primary language is an asset that, combined with English language skills, leads to success in school and life.  Multilingual Education (MLE) programs feature instruction by qualified teachers and dedicated English Language Development courses to support Multilingual Learners (MLLs) in developing knowledge in core content areas while they learn English. All students whose primary language is not English, and who are not yet proficient in English, are eligible for MLE program services.

At registration, parents of all new students complete a form called the Home Language Questionnaire (HLQ), which identifies the language or languages spoken by the student and his or her family. If a language other than English is entered on the HLQ, the parents select an MLE program for their student. The school evaluates the child’s English proficiency level and reviews the student’s performance to determine if the child is eligible for ELA program services. 

Regardless of the program, all Multilingual Learners receive a daily class dedicated to English Language Development (ELD), which gives students the fundamental tools to speak and write English. At DSST ELD courses are differentiated by language proficiency level to ensure that students are receiving the language instruction most appropriate for their proficiency level. Further, Multilingual learners receive explicit language instruction and supports across their content area classes. 

Additionally, the selection of the preferred language of correspondence on the Home Language Questionnaire reflects the language through which the family will receive written and verbal correspondence/interpretation when there is communication regarding their student. For all essential school communication, DSST schools will translate communication in the top 8 languages spoken by students and families at the school.

student records and ferpa 3. Student Records and FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. DSST has access to and maintains an information file on each student via the DPS electronic records system, Infinite Campus.  Parents/Guardians may review their student’s file upon request.  School officials may access student records for educational purposes only and pertinent student information may be shared in cases of medical emergency to protect student safety.  All individually identifiable educational information is protected from disclosure except for “Directory” information. Directory information includes student name, date of birth, place of birth, participation in officially recognized sports and activities, height and weight (for athletic teams), dates of attendance, degrees and other honors awarded. Families may opt out of sharing any information with any party outside of the school at the beginning of each year, or at any other time by contacting the school’s front office team. DSST recommends that families who wish to opt out do so during the Registration/Annual Family Update period.

educator qualifications 4. Educator Qualifications

The federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) states that any school that receives Title I funds must inform families of students of their right to request information on teacher qualifications. Furthermore, the Colorado Department of Education requires districts who receive these funds of teachers who provide instruction for four more weeks if they do not hold a Colorado teaching license. 

At DSST, our teachers meet high standards for subject matter qualification, including having a degree in their content area or passing a rigorous test to demonstrate robust content knowledge as required by ESSA. Furthermore, each DSST teacher undergoes a rigorous, multi-step application and interview process that exceeds employment application requirements of surrounding districts and CDE requirements. Based on a waiver in the DSST charter provided by the state, DSST does not require teachers to pay additional fees associated with becoming certified by the state of Colorado as they are already required to demonstrate qualification through academic and application requirements for employment. 

You may obtain information about your students teachers qualifications by emailing DSST’s Human Resources team at humanresources@scienceandtech.org.

student health 5. Student Health

All DSST schools operate under the supervision of a certified nurse. If your student has a health care management plan of any kind, including for an allergy, diabetes or another condition, please provide that plan and any other information to the front office team when you register your student. Students who are ill or injured during the school day will be assessed by our staff and parents will be called to pick up ill or injured students who cannot stay at school. In emergency situations, school staff will call 911 and the parents/guardian immediately.

  1. Medications: Students requiring medications to be administered at school, including rescue inhalers and Epi-Pens, must complete the district required paperwork, and must provide the medication in its original packaging and with student name and dose information. Medications will be kept on campus until they expire or are returned at the end of the year.

  2. Immunizations: Please provide a record of immunizations for your student during the registration process each year before the start of school. The State of Colorado does require certain immunizations for school attendance by law. Parents seeking exemption from required vaccinations must follow the State of Colorado’s exemption process. This process is completely independent of DSST and its partner districts, and must be completed by the parent or guardian. Students not vaccinated in accordance with state law and do not have an approved exemption will not be permitted to attend school until appropriate documentation is received, and will be considered absent and unexcused.

  3. Nutrition and Foodservice: DSST provides meals for students as part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and all meals comply with Federal nutrition guidelines established by the USDA. The NSLP subsidizes the cost of student meals through the Free and Reduced Lunch (FRL) process. Families are strongly encouraged to complete a FRL application each school year, and need only complete the application once for their entire household, unless they have students in multiple districts, in which case one application must be completed for each district of attendance. As part of the NSLP program, students must not bring food to school to sell or trade to other students. Food brought to school from home must be for the student’s immediate use only. As Colorado transitions to the Free School Meals for All program, DSST will provide additional logistical details about how this program will work as information becomes available.

mandated reporting 6. Mandated Reporting of Suspected Abuse and Neglect

All school personnel are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse and/or neglect, and are expected to complete the requisite Mandated Reporter training annually. Mandated reporters are required to report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately when they have reasonable cause to believe that a child – a student under 18 years old –has been harmed, or is in danger of being harmed, physically, sexually, emotionally, or through neglect. All school personnel will follow required protocols for reporting suspected abuse or neglect.

media release 7. Media Release

DSST maintains a website, keeps a social media presence and periodically publishes promotional materials. We do this to effectively share the wonderful stories of our students, staff and school communities, and capturing authentic moments makes this exponentially more impactful. On occasion, DSST may receive media requests to highlight the schools and students. DSST may also wish to display or publish student artwork, photos taken by the student, or other original work on the school’s website, a website affiliated or sponsored by the school (such as a classroom website) and in school publications.

DSST will apply each family’s opt-in/opt-out decision from the “Parent Permission for Media, District Marketing, Web and Internal Use of Photos and Video” form completed during registration and annual family update processes to the sharing of a student’s image or original work. Families may update this selection at any time by contacting their school’s Front Office team. Please note that DSST will contact you in the event of your student or your student’s school being contacted or interviewed by the media.

distribution of published materials 8. Distribution of Published Materials or Documents

School Materials: With prior approval by the Director, Advisor or teacher, publications prepared by students may be posted or distributed to the greater community. Such items may include school posters, brochures, murals, etc. The school newspaper, the yearbook and all school publications available to students are supervised by staff members and may be edited or taken down at the sole discretion of the school.

Non-School Materials: Unless a student (or parent/guardian) obtains specific prior approval from the Director, written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters or other visual or auditory materials may not be posted, sold, circulated, or distributed at school or on campus.

commerce 9. Commerce

Students (or parents/guardians) may not sell any articles on school property without the permission of the Director.  Money or materials for personal purposes or for an outside organization may not be collected without prior permission from the School Director.

enrollment 10. Enrollment

DSST operates public charter schools open to all students via the Denver Public Schools unified SchoolChoice process. Each DSST school is considered an independent entity in the DPS SchoolChoice process. DSST will not inquire about a student's special education needs prior to enrollment.  After enrollment, schools will work to gather information about incoming students including potential special education needs.  If an enrolled student has an IEP that details programming not currently offered at that school, the school team will work with DPS SEO on next steps

Acceptance into a DSST school does not allow the student to transfer to another DSST Public School location. Transfers between DSST schools will be approved for rare, extenuating circumstances and must be coordinated between the Directors of both schools with final approval by the DSST Home Office.

A student who is officially enrolled at a DSST will be automatically re-enrolled for the following year unless the student participates in the SchoolChoice process to attend a different school. Current 8th graders are automatically enrolled to the 9th grade at the same campus and do not need to participate in the SchoolChoice process.  

Any student who participates in the Round 1 or Round 2 DPS School Choice Round process and is assigned to a new school will no longer be enrolled at the DSST campus.  If the student then changes their mind and wishes to stay at their current DSST school, the student must re-apply for admission during Round 2 of the SchoolChoice process and may be placed on a waitlist. Students are added to waitlists based on admission priorities. Waitlist offers must be made in order of waitlist number and it is possible the student may not be able to return to the school.

Aurora Public Schools:  
DSST operates public charter schools open to all students through the AST lottery process. DSST will not inquire about a student's special education needs prior to enrollment. After enrollment, schools will work to gather information about incoming students including potential special education needs. If an enrolled student has an IEP that details programming not currently offered at that school, the school team will work with APS on next steps.

Acceptance into a DSST school does not allow the student to transfer to another DSST Public School location. Transfers between DSST schools will be approved for rare, extenuating circumstances and must be coordinated between the Directors of both schools with final approval by the DSST Home Office.

A student who is officially enrolled at a DSST will be automatically re-enrolled for the following year unless the student enrolls at a different school. Current 8th graders are automatically enrolled to the 9th grade at the same campus and do not need to participate in the lottery.

Any student who is assigned to a new school through the official APS process will no longer be enrolled at the AST campus.  If the student then changes their mind and wishes to stay at AST,  the student must re-apply for admission during Round 2 of the lottery process and may be placed on a waitlist. Students are added to waitlists based on admission priorities. Waitlist offers must be made in order of waitlist number and it is possible the student may not be able to return to AST.

transportation 11. Transportation

Families are responsible for getting their student(s) to and home from school. Any daily to/from school transportation that may be provided is managed by the Denver Public Schools Transportation system. Parents must give written permission for any person, including a DSST staff member, to transport their student to and from school. Parents should contact DPS Transportation for any questions about specific routes and services that they may be eligible for through the district at 720-423-4600. RTD has a discounted student fare, and RTD pass products can be purchased at numerous locations across the metro area, including at most grocery stores. If your family is unable to afford a bus pass or is experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, please contact the front office team at your school to find out about support opportunities available.

informal grievance 12. Informal Parent/Guardian Grievance Process

DSST’s informal grievance process provides an opportunity to express and resolve grievances. The informal process provides neutral facilitation and mediation, with the goal of informal resolution, restitution and relationship repair within the context of DSST’s core values.

To encourage prompt resolution of grievances, community members are asked to address disputes directly with the other individual(s) involved and to allow reasonable time to reach a solution. 

  • Where possible, meetings between the disputing parties should take place within ten business days of the request. 
  • If conflict resolution is not achieved, the grievance should be brought to the School Director for further mediation.
  • The School Director will reach out via phone call or message to the parent within 5 working days and investigate the grievance and within 10 days:
    • Contact all parties involved in the grievance,
    • Request that the parent attends a meeting to provide more information and further discuss the grievance, and/or
    • Inform the parent of the action taken to remedy the grievance.

The School Director, Community members, and school staff are all expected to act in good faith to best resolve any conflict. During the informal and formal Grievance Process, DSST’s ability to achieve deadlines depends on timely responses from the person filing the grievance–DSST may pause the grievance process if the parent/guardian is unresponsive.

formal grievance 13. Formal Parent/Guardian Grievance Process

This policy is in place to address any grievance that is not resolved via the informal process or is significant enough, in the mind of the grievant, to require a more formal investigative and resolution process that is documented in writing. Parent/Guardian Grievance Form.

Step One: To initiate process, parent(s)/guardian(s) shall complete and submit a signed and dated Parent/Guardian Grievance Form (template below) to the School Director at the campus and to the school’s Managing Director at DSST Public Schools Home Office at 3401 Quebec St, Suite #2000, Denver, CO 80207, Attn: DSST College View Managing Director.

Step Two: The Managing Director will acknowledge receipt of the written grievance via phone call or message to the parent/guardian within 5 business days and will launch a formal investigation of the grievance. The Managing Director will provide a copy of the written grievance to the individual(s) named in the grievance, and to their direct supervisor.  By the 15th business day following receipt of the Grievance Form, the Managing Director will inform the parent/guardian of the proposed action taken to remedy the grievance. 

Step Three: If the issue remains unresolved after step two, the parent/guardian may request, in writing, that the Managing Director provide a copy of the written grievance to Chief Equity Officer at DSST Public Schools Home Office at 3401 Quebec St #2000, Denver, CO 80207, Attn: Aaron J. Griffen, Chief Equity Office.

Within 10 business days of receiving the grievance at the Home Office, DSST Public Schools will appoint a Resolution Team that includes members of the school staff and the DSST Public Schools Home Office team. Any person(s) who is directly named in the grievance or who is deemed to have a clear conflict of interest may not be a member of the Resolution Team. The team will conduct an internal investigation by conducting interviews with all relevant parties, reviewing pertinent documents and reviewing policies.

Within 40 business days of the Chief Equity Officer receiving the grievance, the Resolution Team will issue a written resolution that may include plans for facilitated conflict resolution meetings, an appointed campus staff case manager to ensure implementation of the resolution, recommendations for change in policy or procedure, and suggested next steps to the appropriate member of DSST’s Senior Leadership, who will then inform the parent/guardian of the recommended actions to remedy the grievance within 45 business days of receiving the grievance.

Final Appeal: If a grievant is not satisfied with the recommendation of the Senior Leadership Team member, the matter should be appealed to DSST Public Schools’ Board of Directors by directing the Grievance Form  to the Board Chair or Vice Chair at 3401 Quebec St #2000, Denver, CO 80207, Attn: Board Chair, who will formally respond to the grievant.

It is important to the integrity of our school that grievances be handled in an informed, direct, fair and equitable manner. The administration, DSST Public Schools, and the Board of Directors share responsibility for ensuring the integrity of the vision and its implementation through the system of due process as described in this policy. 

The final forum for conflict resolution, after a parent/guardian has followed the steps outlined above, will be the Board of Directors who will deliver a written communication to the parent/guardian. If an individual or group initiates a complaint at a public meeting of the Board of Directors or to individuals on the Board, the Board is not required to respond to the substance of the complaint, but will instead thank the individual or group for their time and direct them to the grievance process outlined above.

social media policy 14. Social Media Policy

As members of the DSST Public Schools community, students and families are welcome to participate in interactions with the school online on our social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube. Students and families are expected to employ responsible behavior, and any content that is egregious, inappropriate or illegal or unbecoming of the core values of a DSST student to the school or to other community members will result in disciplinary action or reporting to proper authorities, if necessary. Posting photos of students without their consent will absolutely not be tolerated. Such posts/messages will be immediately deleted and will result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion. Students are not to engage with, follow or interact with DSST staff members on any social media channel. DSST’s External Social Media Policy can be viewed on our website here.

VI. Athletics and Extracurricular Activities

participation (athletics) 1. Participation

DSST encourages students to get involved with fitness, athletics and extracurricular activities. These activities are a valuable part of a strong liberal arts education.  However, participation in competitive athletics and games is a privilege, and not a right. Students will be deemed eligible to participate as long as they are in good academic standing, are passing all of their classes and have consistently abided by the school’s core values. Eligibility shall be determined by the school. A student may be removed from a team or club activity at any point if not in good academic or behavioral standing.

All school policies and rules apply to athletic and club activities, practices, games and transportation. At all times, students are expected to demonstrate the highest levels of sportsmanship and exemplify the school’s Core Values.

All students participating in athletics are required to provide a physical exam at the beginning of the year or before the start of the athletic season. Please contact your campus athletic director for any questions or to share any important medical information.

science and tech parent STP 2. Family Engagement Council (FEC)

Through volunteer efforts, the Family Engagement Council, composed of Parents/Guardians/Family Members, supports the school’s staff, students, and families; provides opportunities for parents/guardians/family members to ask questions, express concerns and seek answers about school-related issues. All parents/guardians/family members are welcome at each [family group name] meeting, held monthly at the school.  There are no fees, qualifications or requirements associated with membership. All parents/guardians are considered voting members at each meeting they attend. Officers of Family Engagement Council are elected yearly with no previous qualifications required.

VII. Weather and Emergency Procedures

accident or medical emergency 1. Accident or Medical Emergency

If a medical emergency occurs at school, first aid will be administered and the parent/guardian will be contacted immediately. If a parent or guardian cannot be reached, an emergency contact or the family physician will be contacted. If necessary, the school will call Emergency Medical Services (911).

school closings 2. School Closings

DSST adheres to Denver Public Schools’ and Aurora Public Schools’ weather school closing decisions. If DPS or APS closes or has a delayed opening, DSST will do the same. The school-closing announcement will be posted at www.dsstpublicschools.org as well as on Social Media. When DPS or APS is NOT closed or on a delayed schedule, DSST will be open. Should DSST need to close school early for other emergency reasons, every attempt will be made to inform parents/guardians in order to arrange for transportation. Please always check your DSST school’s social media and website for updates on weather closures.

fire alarms and building emergencies 3. Fire Alarms and Building Emergencies

Should an emergency require evacuation of the school, fire alarms will sound. Students will proceed to designated areas with their teachers. Individuals will remain in their area until a member of the administrative staff gives the “all-clear” signal. All fire alarms are treated as real and require immediate evacuation of the building. The school shall conduct periodic emergency response drills during the school year.  Students with disabilities who are supported through an IEP or Section 504 plan, will have additional considerations for fire alarms and emergency situations.  Each school will have an intentional, student focused plan for these events to ensure student needs are supported while maintaining safety in emergency situations.

Evacuation procedures are as follows. Students who fail to follow this procedure will be issued an appropriate consequence.

  1. Silently follow staff directions and proceed out the nearest exit.
  2. Do not bring backpacks or any other belongings.
  3. Meet in the designated area with your teacher.

Faculty and staff undergo emergency management training and yearly review.  An emergency manual is available in each classroom for quick reference purposes.

APPENDICES FOR THE CURRENT ACADEMIC SCHOOL YEAR

appendix A school hours APPENDIX A - School Hours

 

M/Tu/Th/F

Wednesday

Doors Open

8:05 am

8:05 am

Start

8:20 am

8:20 am

End

3:45 pm

1:35 pm

Intervention End

4:30 pm

2:20 pm

appendix B make up work APPENDIX B - Make-up Work Policy

appendix D technology use APPENDIX D - Student Technology Use Summary

The technology given to students at DSST is a privilege, and along with that privilege, comes responsibility on the part of all students.

What students should know:

  • Not using DSST technology appropriately at home or off campus will lead to disciplinary action or fees.
  • DSST has the ability and the right to view anything on your computer at any time.
  • In classrooms, technology can only be used as directed by a teacher or staff member.
  • If you damage your computer, you and your family are responsible for paying for the damage.
  • DSST has the right to take back the laptop of any student if they do not use it and care for it appropriately.

Do’s – Student Responsibilities

  • DO back up all of your data. You are responsible for having every file on your computer backed up. There is NO excuse for loss of work or documents due to computer or network failure.
  • DO report any damage to your computer to the helpdesk right away.
  • DO transport your laptop to and from class and school in a padded carrying case at all times.
  • DO backup all files on a jump drive. If a laptop is confiscated, students are still responsible to have any digital work.
  • DO only visit websites whose content is educational and ethical. Visiting any site that is not intended for academic purposes may result in your laptop being taken away.

Don’ts

  • DON’T download ANY software to your laptop…ever.
  • DON’T leave your laptop in your car, unlocked locker, or an unattended classroom.
  • DON’T have a cell phone or other handheld electronic device out of your backpack without explicit instruction from a teacher or staff member. 
  • DON’T give any of your passwords to ANYONE.

Although the items listed below are the most important things for students to know, it is important for students and their families to read this entire document before signing it. 

DSST Public Schools Technology Acceptable Use Policy

DSST provides students and staff with a variety of technology resources for the purpose of supporting our educational mission. This acceptable use policy is intended to explain the responsibilities and limitations of technology use at DSST.  Additional rules may be added as necessary.

It is important that all users of DSST technology remember that access to these resources is a privilege, not a right.  Access to DSST technology resources is only given to students who act in a considerate and responsible manner.  Users of technology are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior and care in the use of computers and school computer networks just as they are in a classroom or a school library. Still, as technology is integrated into the fabric of virtually all instruction at DSST, and appropriate use is critical to ensure learning happens for all, violation of these policies will be treated as a disciplinary issue

Policies

  1. Inappropriate usage of technology will lead to serious disciplinary consequences. We expect students to apply the same core values of responsibility, integrity and respect that govern their conduct in their life at DSST to also govern their use of DSST’s computers at home and off-campus.
  2. DSST staff reserves the right to define inappropriateness in this context and to check any student’s laptop at any time.
  3. General school rules and expression of core values apply to all use of technology.
  4. Reference to laptops also includes tablets or other kinds of Technology provided or authorized by DSST.
  5. All work created on or by or stored on any DSST equipment belongs to DSST and may be reviewed and/or retained for any purpose in line with its educational mission.
  6. Computer and network storage areas may be accessed by network administrators as needed for school purposes.  All files (including email and internet) viewed and stored on DSST servers or computers will be considered public, and may be viewed by a DSST staff member at any time. Within reason as determined by the deans and director, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored.
  7. At school and/or during school hours, students will use computers and other technology resources for school related purposes only, unless they receive specific permission to do otherwise.  In classrooms, students will use technology only as directed by the teacher.
  8. In the event of damage to the computer or its peripheral parts, either payment for replacement/repair of the damage or the cost of the deductible will be charged.  If financial hardship is an issue, contact the student’s dean or the business manager.
  9. DSST reserves the right to withhold technology resources from the student responsible for unpaid damages until appropriate arrangements have been made.
  10. Additional consequences may be levied in the event of multiple damage incidents by a given student.

Student Appropriate Use

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the following:

  1. IMPORTANT: It is the student’s responsibility to see that all work is backed up. There is NO excuse for loss of work or documents due to computer or network failure or loss due to disciplinary action. Students shall always maintain at least two copies saved; one on the local hard drive, and one on at least one of the following: flash drives or on the server (the H drive). Applications should be set so that work is saved at least every 5 or 10 minutes.  Generally, in the event of disciplinary actions (like computer re-cloning) due to computer misuse, NO opportunity for backing up work will be given.
  2. No cell or multimedia devices are allowed out of your backpack during class unless directed by the teacher.
  3. Materials printed at school are to be academic in nature. Documents not pertaining to school are not to be printed from the DSST laptop and teacher permission is required to print. 
  4. Students will respect the intellectual property of others by using appropriate citation, refraining from all forms of plagiarism, and abiding by federal copyright laws.
  5. All students must log on with their own username and password. Passwords must be kept confidential. Users are responsible for all actions that occur with their user account and computers.  Users should change their password from time to time and guard it carefully.  It is ALWAYS appropriate to ask someone to step away while one enters a password, and courteous to do so without being asked.
  6. Students must not attempt to access or tamper with files, folders, programs, drives or any equipment on the network that do not belong to them.
  7. Students will conserve the use of technology resources such as bandwidth, printing supplies, etc.  Personal files, music, video, or other personal multimedia files unrelated to school may NOT be saved on the desktop or in My Documents (which is Windows default location, and gets synchronized with your H drive) or in the H drive.  This also includes the background of your laptop – you must use one of the Windows backgrounds, and you may not use any other image for your laptop background.  In the event your network (home) folder becomes filled with personal files, your whole folder may be emptied with no recourse for lost work.  If you do not understand how personal files get in your home folder, ASK a teacher.  
  8. Students will find all approved software for download in the software center and should not download or install anything found outside of that. Students may not download or install programs or inappropriate media or info. If a program, or any portion of it, is on your hard drive without permission, it constitutes computer misuse.
  9. The Internet is available to students for academic pursuits. Students may not use it in an inappropriate manner, or give out personal information about themselves or classmates over the Internet without specific staff permission.  Students may not use their laptop for any streaming content unless it is specifically for an academic class.
  10. The school will provide all students with access to the Internet and an e-mail account. These are privileges and may be rescinded if used in an inappropriate manner.  Any student who uses inappropriate language or uses the Internet or his/her email to harass, attack or defame another person or send inappropriate pictures in any communications faces disciplinary action.  Email is an educational tool provided for the express purpose of furthering DSST’s educational mission. As such, DSST reserves the right to inspect any DSST email messages, to rescind or modify privileges in any way or at any time in the enforcement of this policy.
  11. If students use DSST systems to communicate concern of harm to others or themselves, that communication is subject to monitoring and may be reported to and responded to by Denver or Aurora Public Schools’ Safety teams, or in some cases to local law enforcement.
  12. Students will follow DSST technology use protocols.  For instance, Instant Messaging (or having IM programs on the student computer – see Downloading above), emailing during class, and playing music out loud during school hours are not acceptable.
  13. Students may not subscribe to Listserv services on a DSST account, in which mail is automatically sent to a student account, without expressed written permission from the IT department.
  14. Students will not use technology for illegal or commercial enterprise.
  15. Students will take all precautions with their laptops to avoid damage or theft (see Laptop Care & Maintenance Document below), and report any damage, theft or malfunction immediately. This includes but is not limited to the use of a laptop bag or backpack with a built-in laptop sleeve.
  16. So as not to unnecessarily burden DSST support staff, students will learn and exercise skills to undertake basic troubleshooting, including taking advantage of  (in the following order)
    1. online computer and web help sources
    2. fellow students
    3. teachers

Students will take precautions against viruses and other threats and will report all issues or infections immediately to prevent damage.

DSST Public Schools Laptop Care and Maintenance

Physical Security (keeping your laptop physically safe):  

  1. DO NOT leave your laptop in your car, an unlocked locker, or a classroom.
  2. DO NOT eat or drink near your laptop.  You may not use the laptop in the lunchroom during lunch.  You may not have a water bottle at your desk if you are using your laptop.
  3. Be cautious about leaving the laptop unattended anywhere that there is a chance it could easily be knocked onto the floor, sat on, stepped on or otherwise damaged. Know that dropping, jostling, or bumping might cause damage to the hard drive. 
  4. Always hold the laptop by the bottom (keyboard half), NEVER the screen.  Use two hands when carrying.
  5. Never twist the screen on its hinges (could crack the screen).
  6. DO NOT scratch or push on the screen.
  7. Never close the lid on a pencil, pen, papers or other items left on the keyboard.
  8. DO NOT slam the lid down.
  9. DO NOT place the laptop near any electrical appliance that could generate a magnetic field, it can damage data.
  10. Always transport the laptop in a padded carrying case, and never stack items on the lid of the laptop.  You must transport the laptop in your padded carrying case to and from class.  This means that when you are traveling from class to class, you are not carrying the laptop in your hands.
  11. Use a luggage tag or other unique item to attach to your laptop case to help identify your computer.
  12. Be careful when removing the power cord. Yanking it out of the laptop from afar will cause damage. DO NOT wrap the cord tightly around itself or tie it in knots.  Instead, for storage, loosely wrap it in a circular or figure eight pattern. Secure it with a Velcro strap, twist tie or other means intended to secure the cord.
  13. Remember as the thermometer lowers that cold is not your computer’s friend. Do not leave it in the car. Do not store your laptop anywhere that is very cold or very warm.

Internal Security (keeping dangerous data from harming your laptop):

  1. Do not download ANYTHING from the Internet without specific permission from the IT Department!  Kazaa, Bonzi, Gator, WeatherBug, HotBar, WhenUSave, CommetCursor, WebHancer all appear to have legitimate useful functions. However, most of this software is, contains, or is a common conduit of viruses, spyware or adware, all of which will damage your Windows installation, waste resources, generate pop-up ads, download more garbage and report your personal information back to the company that provides that software.
  2. Downloaded software and screensavers often cause conflicts that can cause your laptop to function very slowly and often crash.  Remember that the laptop is a tool for learning and keeping it free of extras will keep it working efficiently and properly.

When to seek help:

1. Shut off the notebook immediately and bring it to the IT Department for servicing if you have the following problems:

-          When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.

-          If liquid has been spilled on the computer.

-          If it has been dropped or the case has been damaged.

-          Any physical damage is noticed.

-          The system has crashed/locked.

2. Bring your computer to the tech lab for any repairs, upgrades, or any problems.

 

Cleaning your laptop:

Display/Screen

  • Soap can leave a residue on the computer, ONLY use a slightly damp to wipe the screen and case.
  • When cleaning the screen, spray onto a soft lint free cloth and never spray the screen directly.

Keyboards and Case

  • To clean the keyboard, you can use a vacuum (suction or blower; small units are available at Office Depot or other computer/office supply stores) with a tiny extension nozzle to free dust and debris from the keys. Wipe down the surfaces/keys with a slightly damp cloth. Do not allow moisture to seep into any part of the keyboard.
  • If significant cleaning is needed, use rubbing alcohol or a mild household cleaner (avoiding contact with the screen), applied to a lint free cloth.  If water gets between the keys, do not use the laptop until the water has had time to evaporate.
  • To clean the exterior casing of your laptop, wipe using a slightly damp cloth, allowing no moisture to get inside any openings or drives.

 

LAPTOP DISCIPLINE RUBRIC: severity and consequences of offenses

Purpose of tracking offenses is to teach responsible computer usage, protect schools' property and to protect schools' infrastructure. This will also aid in prevention and parent administration/advisory meetings.

Severity

Type

Consequence

1

Misuse of internet, emailing, gaming or standard DSST applications in class: this behavior should be included in house notes on behaviors so advisor can address behavior; teachers use standard discipline process before addressing as "excessive" issue.

RF: Contact Advisor first, and if issue persists, contact House leaders; if all agree this is a consistent, excessive behavior across classes, email can be limited for a defined period of time, and the Dean should be contacted for possible suspension

Excessive, habitual emailing in class

RF: Contact Advisor first, and if issue persists, contact House leaders; if all agree this is a consistent, excessive behavior across classes, email can be limited for a defined period of time, and the Dean should be contacted for possible suspension

Left equipment unattended (either the laptop is unattended or the backpack with the laptop inside is unattended) or carrying laptop from class to class without it being in a padded case or laptop bag.

RF: student is still responsible for all assigned work turned in by the due dates

Laptop needs to be cleaned virus/adware/spyware

RF and Clone; student is still responsible for all assigned work turned in by the due dates

loaded unauthorized files or website, (except porn & hate content - see below L3)

RF and Clone; student is still responsible for all assigned work turned in by the due dates

H: drive abuse – using personal H drive to house non-school or academic related files.

Referral to Dean for possible suspension

2

Internet filter bypass 

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for possible suspension (1-2 days) and Clone, Internet restrictions

Defiance toward Teacher after two verbal warnings regarding laptop use during classroom instruction; or after two verbal warnings around use of laptop outside the classroom. 

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for possible suspension (1-2 days) and Clone, Internet restrictions

H: drive abuse second offense

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for possible suspension (1-2 days)  and loss of H drive availability

Repeat of Level 1 offense (# of RF)

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for possible suspension (2-3 days) & Clone

detected and un-cleanable virus/adware/spyware

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for possible suspension (2-3 days) & Clone

3

Repeat of L2 offense, 3rd repeat of L1 offense

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for suspension, Parent Conference, Redo AUP, and Clone

hacking computer password or computers (local admin password) + no damage

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for suspension, Parent Conference, Redo AUP, and Clone

intentional load unauthorized files to server

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for suspension, Parent Conference, Redo AUP, and Clone

Possession of porn (sexual or extreme violence) content on computer

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for suspension, Parent Conference, Redo AUP, and Clone

deliberate or negligent damage (e.g. spilling liquids on laptop, drop or throwing laptops)

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for suspension, deductible, cost to replace (no insurance)

Violent or sexually explicit gaming (e.g. First Shooter Gaming)

Laptop confiscated; Referral to the dean for suspension and Clone

4

Repeat of L3 offense, 3rd repeat of L2 offense, 4th+ repeat of L1 offense

Referral to the dean for suspension etc.

hacking computer password or computers (local admin password) + damage

Referral to the dean for suspension, possible legal charges, etc.

significant intentional load unauthorized files to server

Referral to the dean for suspension, possible legal charges, etc.

student/staff abuse or bullying by means of technology

Referral to the dean for suspension, possible legal charges, etc.

Possession of hate content on computer

Referral to the dean for suspension, possible legal charges, etc.

Theft

Referral to the dean for suspension, possible legal charges, etc.

5

Repeated or severe student/staff abuse or bullying by means of technology

Referral to the dean for suspension, criminal prosecution, possible expulsion

Hacking with intent to cause damage

Referral to the dean for suspension, criminal prosecution, possible expulsion

appendix E family and student core value APPENDIX E - Family and Student Core Value Pledge

DSST was founded on six Core Values, which create common agreements to develop a strong, healthy community. Every individual has their own unique set of personal values and living a values-driven life is an ongoing journey for staff, students, and families at DSST and beyond.

We commit to create a welcoming, values-driven environment for anyone that enters our school in order to create a vibrant and inclusive DSST Community. Healthy communities support individuals to become the best version of themselves in order to contribute to the human story. We create shared commitments, aligned to the following Core Values to create strong DSST communities which help us achieve our mission.

Staff and students agree to live out the following Core Values for the purpose of creating a stronger community and sense of belonging:

Respect: We appreciate each person and their story through our words, actions, and attitudes. We value their unique perspective and treat others with dignity.

Responsibility: We acknowledge that our actions and choices impact ourselves and our community. We take ownership for what we do and how we choose to do it.

Integrity: We act and speak with honesty, fairness, and thoughtfulness. We consistently align our words and actions.

Courage: We possess the confidence and resolve to take risks, push ourselves, and persevere in the face of pressure, adversity or unfamiliar circumstances.

Curiosity: We are eager to learn, question, and explore. We have a thirst for knowledge, a love of investigation, and a desire to learn about ourselves, our community, and our world.

Doing Your Best: We put our best effort into everything we do. We know that individual and collective effort are required for our community to thrive.

appendix F parent and school shared expectations APPENDIX F - Parent and School Shared Expectations

At DSST, we believe in the importance of all members of the school community, families, staff and students, working together in order to achieve our mission of preparing our students for success in college and the 21st century. The following agreement outlines the responsibilities that the school and families have to support our students’ success.

For Title I Schools Only—Schools Modify: Please plan to attend our Title I parent meeting this fall, when we will discuss our school’s use of Title I funding and use this commitment as a starting point to build a Parent-School Compact.

PARENT & GUARDIAN COMMITMENT

Our families are committed to supporting their students’ growth and achievement at DSST, including supporting the systems and structures designed to promote their success. DSST families are members of the DSST community and parents are responsible to:

  • Make sure their child arrives at DSST every day on time and remains at school until the first dismissal at the end of the day. If their child is assigned the second dismissal, parents will make arrangements for a pick up at second dismissal.
  • Ensure that their child attends school every day, unless sick or unable to attend because of a family emergency.  Parents will notify the school before 8:20 a.m. if their child is going to miss school.
  • Make sure their child follows the DSST dress code.
  • Hold their child accountable when they fall short of an expectation. This includes making sure that their child follows through with College Prep, Mandatory Tutoring, Responsibility Prep sessions, and other consequences that may be assigned.
  • Express themselves appropriately by using professional and courteous language in school.
  • Communicate directly and honestly and interact with others in productive and positive ways that build trust.
  • Check their child’s homework, as requested.
  • Encourage their child to do his/her best daily.
  • Encourage their child to follow up on any issues or concerns with his/her advisor.
  • Give honest feedback in an appropriate and respectful way to make the school community stronger.
  • Treat people appropriately with common courtesy; have empathy for others and treat them with dignity.
  • Understand that their child must follow DSST’s expectations and Core Values to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals at DSST.

DSST COMMITMENT

DSST is committed to supporting student growth and achievement at DSST, including consistently upholding the systems and structures designed to promote their success. This includes providing a safe, supportive and nondiscriminatory no-opt out  learning and working environment for all students and staff. DSST will continue to value all students' histories, identities, literacies and liberation in pedagogy and focus on multiple aspects of student achievement and experiences as we support students to uphold their cultural identities. This, at times, may include curriculum, concepts, discussion and topics that may result in difficult and critical conversations within the classroom learning environment and across the school environment.

In working to be inclusive of backgrounds, cultures and beliefs that are represented in the DSST Community, the DSST Curriculum and Instruction team applies a Culturally and Historically Relevant Pedagogical (CHRP) framework. CHRP is a combination of culturally responsive and relevant pedagogy along with historical pedagogy. Therefore, no story, history, experience or background will be excluded from our DSST curriculum, community or culture. This means we have a no opt-out, equity-based inclusive curriculum and instruction policy, which highlights and celebrates the contributions and experiences of marginalized identities including but not limited to: race, religion, socio-economic status, immigration status, gender…etc.  The premise is to promote all students' histories, identities, literacies and liberation in pedagogy and focus on multiple aspects of student achievement and support students to uphold their cultural identities.

  • 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.
  • Hold high expectations, which help students achieve academic success while still validating their cultural identities.
  • Prioritizing students’ intellectual growth, including their ability to problem-solve. 
  • Teach students how to identify, analyze, and solve real-world problems, especially those that result in societal inequities against marginalized groups.
  • Using multicultural instructional examples which connect students’ prior knowledge and cultural experiences with new knowledge.
  • Hold parent-teacher conferences each trimester, during which this compact will be discussed with parents as it relates to their individual child’s achievement.
  • Provide parents with regular reports on their child’s progress.
  • Provide parents reasonable access to staff. Staff will be available for consultation with parents during parent-teacher conferences and by meetings arranged by contacting the student’s dean or advisor.
  • Provide parents opportunities to volunteer and participate in their child’s class, and to observe classroom activities, through participation in the SAC (School Accountability Committee) and STP (Science and Tech Parent Group).
  • Ensure that attendance for all students is taken accurately and do everything within our power to ensure that all students attend school every day.
  • Make sure that all students follow the DSST dress code.
  • Hold all students accountable when they fall short of an expectation. This includes making sure that students follow through with College Prep, Mandatory Tutoring, Refocus Sessions, and other consequences that may be assigned.
  • Model professional and courteous language and conduct in school for students and the DSST community.
  • Value different communication styles and modify classroom interactions accordingly. 
  • Communicate directly and honestly and interact with others in productive and positive ways that build trust.
  • Encourage all students to do their best daily.
  • Support all issues and concerns that students bring to their advisors.
  • Give students direction and feedback in an appropriate and respectful way to make the school community stronger.
  • Create an environment where students affirm and appreciate their culture of origin while also developing fluency in at least one other culture. 
  • Treat staff and students appropriately with common courtesy; have empathy for others and treat them with dignity.
  •  Follow DSST’s expectations and Core Values to protect the safety, interests, and rights of all individuals at DSST.

Teachers have been provided a guide which serves as a policy to support staff and students as we engage in our efforts to ensure all students, staff and families experience the Human Condition so that no story, history, experience or background will be excluded from our DSST curriculum, community or culture. Our daily life encompasses the experiences of being human in a social, cultural, and personal context so that we are fully known and affirmed for who we are, and able to contribute something significant to the human story and to the DSST community at large. 

School Director Signature Erik Jacobson

appendix G signature page APPENDIX G - Student and Family Handbook Contract Signature Page

Student and Family Acknowledgement of Understanding and Compliance (Print)

We are familiar with and will abide by all the contents, responsibilities and policies contained in this handbook. We understand that these policies govern student and family conduct in the school and will be enforced at school or on school grounds, at school-sanctioned activities or events (even if occurring off school property), or while being transported by school-approved vehicles. The school reserves the right to adapt and change policies during the year to serve the greater good of the school.

 

Name of Student:                                                               

  

Student Signature:                                                                      Date:                       

 

Name of Parent/Guardian:                                                

 

Parent/Guardian Signature:                                                       Date: