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Policy Handbook
2016-2017
4704 Camp Phillips Rd.
Schofield, WI 54476
PHONE: 715-359-1040
Advisors:
Andrew Dercks
Jacques du Vair
Kendra Feathers
Luke Stachovak
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I. THE FOUNDATION 5
MISSION STATEMENT…………………………………………………………………………. 5
VISION STATEMENT ………………………………………………………………………… 5
OVERVIEW…………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
GUIDING PRINCIPLES…………………………………………………………………………. 5
STRUCTURE……………………………………………………………………………………. 5
II. LEARNING FRAMEWORK 6-7
PARENT INVOLVEMENT……………………………………………………………………….. 6
PERSONAL LEARNING PLAN (PLP)…………………………………………………………… 6
INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS………………………………………………………………………... 6
GROUP PROJECTS……………………………………………………………………………... 6
COMMUNITY SERVICE………………………………………………………………………… 6
ADVISORY CIRCLE....………………………………………………………………………… 7
MATH & LITERACY…………………………………………………………………………… 7
PHYSICAL EDUCATION………………………………………………………………………... 7
LIFELONG LEARNING…………………………………………………………………………. 7
ENROLLMENT OPTIONS FOR STUDENTS……………………………………………………… 7
INTERSCHOLASTIC/INTRAMURAL OFFERINGS……………………………………………….. 7
III. LEARNING EXPECTATIONS 8
SCOPE AND SEQUENCE PROGRESS EXPECTATIONS…………………………………………... 8
ACADEMIC PROGRESS REPORTING…………………………………………………………… 8
STATUS AND PRIVILEGE……………………………………………………………………….. 8
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LACK OF PROGRESS…………………………………………………………………………… 9
IV. PROCEDURES 9-10
SCHOOL FEES………………………………………………………………………………….. 9
ATTENDANCE/TIMELINESS……………………………………………………………………. 9
ILLNESS OR OTHER EMERGENCIES…………………………………………………………… 9
HEALTH SERVICES……………………………………………………………………………. 9
FIELD TRIPS…………………………………………………………………………………… 10
OUTSIDE RESEARCH…………………………………………………………………………... 10
CLEANING RESPONSIBILITIES………………………………………………………………… 10
RECYCLING EXPECTATION……………………………………………………………………. 10
GRADUATION CELEBRATION………………………………………………………………….. 10
END OF YEAR………………………………………………………………………………….. 10
V. OPERATIONS 10-13
SCHOOL MANAGEMENT AND GOVERNANCE………………………………………………….. 11
IDEA CHARTER SCHOOL GROUNDS…………………………………………………………. 12
DAILY SCHEDULE…………………………………………………………………………….. 12
BLOCK SCHEDULE…………………………………………………………………………… 12
HOME STUDY DAYS………………………………………………………………………….. 12
CONFERENCES………………………………………………………………12
SCHOOL CALENDAR………………………………………………………………………….. ERROR!
BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
ROUTINE BUILDING PROCEDURES…………………………………………………………... 13
CRISIS PLAN………………………………………………………………………………….. 13
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EMERGENCY MEDICAL SITUATIONS………………………………………………………… 13
FIRE SAFETY PLAN…………………………………………………………………………... 13
TORNADO SAFETY PLAN…………………………………………………………………….. 13
VI. POLICIES 15
PHONE POLICY……………………………………………………………………………….. 14
ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY……………………………………………………………….. 14
TECHNOLOGY USE POLICY………………………………………………………………….. 14
THEFT OF VALUABLES……………………………………………………………………….. 14
STUDENT FILE/DATA STORAGE……………………………………………………………… 14
LUNCH POLICY………………………………………………………………………………. 14
SNACK POLICY……………………………………………………………………………….. 15
SCHOOL FINES……………………………………………………………………………….. 15
DRESS STANDARD……………………………………………………………………………. 16
STUDENTS DRIVING STUDENTS……………………………………………………………… 16
DISCIPLINE…………………………………………………………………………………… 16
APPENDICES
IDEA CHARTER SCHOOL PROGRESS EXPECTATIONS…………………………….17
BEHAVIORS OF CONCERN…………………………………………………………17
COMMUNITY TRAVEL RELEASE…………………………………………………19
SITE VISITATION REQUEST FORM…………………………………………………..20
D.C. EVEREST ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY FOR TECHNOLOGY SERVICES…………21
2012-2013 SCHOOL CALENDAR……………………………………………………….. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT
DEFINED.
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I. THE FOUNDATION
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MISSION STATEMENT
To produce passionate learners who serve and provide their skills to the community.
VISION STATEMENT
To positively influence the district and larger community through innovation and improvement.
OVERVIEW
Student-driven, project-based learning provides students the opportunity to choose, plan, research, and complete
academic, hands-on projects that lead to real life learning. Whenever possible, students take their learning into
the “real world,” consulting community experts as a part of their research. Student projects align with the
Wisconsin Model Academic Standards. Students also learn valuable skills in the areas of time management,
planning, organization, communication, team building, and problem solving.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Students must see the value of rigor in their individual learning.
Personalized Learning Plans (PLPs) will guide each student.
Reading is the key to life-long success.
Students must see that their work is relevant.
School/Business partnerships promote real-life learning.
Advanced internships guide post-secondary decision making.
Students must see that building positive relationships is vital.
Community service is vital to being a community member.
There is tremendous value in creating a caring learning culture.
STRUCTURE
Idea Charter School is a student-driven, project-based school for students in grades 6-12. Idea Charter School
fosters a unique, close-knit school culture. Students at Idea Charter School are assigned to an advisor with a low
student-to-teacher ratio. Students work at personalized workstations on their own computers.
Idea Charter School offers a learning model that is based on student interests and the Wisconsin Model Academic
Standards. Idea Charter School projects are managed by Project Foundry, an online project management
system. This system assists students with the entire project process from start to finish; providing an electronic
portfolio, assessment reports, and transcripts..
Projects at Idea Charter School vary; however, they all have similar requirements. Projects can last several days
to several weeks or more and students must document the number of hours of work time for each project by
logging learning in Project Foundry. Credits will be earned upon demonstration of academic achievement level.
(For more details see Learning Expectations.) There are seven phases to the project process: Rationale,
Proposal, Research, Planning, Production, Pre-Assessment, and Presentation/Assessment Phase.
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II. LEARNING FRAMEWORK
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Parent involvement begins with the child’s Personalized Learning Plan (PLP). A PLP will be developed in
conjunction with the student, the parent(s), and the advisor. Parents will provide support through school
involvement, organization of community events, and participation at the Idea Charter School.
There are many opportunities for parental involvement at Idea Charter School. Depending upon talents, schedule,
and availability, a parent may participate in one or more of the following ways:
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Participate in student-advisor-parent conferences.
Learn the project process so that you may assist your child and volunteer to assist students at school.
Provide input and feedback to advisors.
Share with the community the exciting concept of Idea Charter School.
Attend Idea Charter School Projectpalooza and other project showcase events
Participate in carpools to and from school events and learning experiences.
Chaperone Idea Charter School events.
Mentor Idea Charter School students in the area of your expertise.
Share knowledge of community resources with Idea Charter School staff and students.
Assist Idea Charter School students and teachers on site.
Provide administrative assistance from school or home e.g. mailings, word processing, phone calls, etc.
Organize community events.
Be on an active Idea Charter School committee.
Attend Governance Board Meetings or become a member.
Support your child’s interests and efforts!
PERSONAL LEARNING PLAN (PLP)
Each fall, Idea Charter School students, their parent(s), and their advisors create PLPs for the school year. The
PLP helps each student to develop a plan and set goals for the school year along with a vision toward postgraduation plans; and will provide the framework for student-led conferences.
INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS
Individual projects center on student interests and passions along with the Idea Charter School Scope and
Sequence. Individual projects typically relate to a student’s area of interest and/or future career development. A
senior project is required for graduation from - Idea Charter School. Seniors will be required to design a
comprehensive senior project and to formally present their work to the learning community and invited guests.
GROUP PROJECTS
Students with similar interests may propose a group project, but only students who have demonstrated success at
completing individual projects will be approved to work on group projects. Group projects will require the same
process an individual project would with regards to proposal, documentation of time spent, etc.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
All students are required to participate in some form of community service. During the year, there will be
opportunities to earn community service credits during the regular day. However, students may spend additional
time on community service opportunities of their choosing.
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ADVISORY CIRCLE
Advisory Circle is an important time for building skills and relationships among Idea Charter School community
members; participation is required. Morning advisory circle starts at 8:30. Advisors may hold additional and/or
longer advisory circles as they see fit.
MATH & LITERACY
Math and literacy instruction will be provided at level that matches the student’s abilities. Reading/Literacy time
is mandatory for all students. Students must document reading time, journal what has been read in Project
Foundry, and participate in book study groups. Math is completed using an online program called ALEKS.
Related math projects will also be required. The ALEKS math curriculum includes full year courses (worth one
credit each). Students are given the opportunity to work on math at their own pace with advisor support.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Idea Charter School is dedicated to the physical fitness and healthy lifestyle choices of our students. Students
may earn required physical education credit by walking, running, dancing, swimming, playing organized sports,
exercising to DVDs or fitness video games, stretching, and more based on advisor approval. A project proposal,
evidence of learning, and active participation are required.
LIFELONG LEARNING
Lifelong Learning experiences outside the school setting are vital to the education of the whole child. Idea Charter
School students have the opportunity to earn credit for these experiences. Opportunities may include family
vacations, museum visits, concerts, sporting events, theater productions, etc.
ENROLLMENT OPTIONS FOR STUDENTS
Students attending Idea Charter School may choose to enroll in one course per semester at their traditional school
(MS, JH or SH). Transportation to/from the traditional school setting is the responsibility of the parents.
INTERSCHOLASTIC/INTRAMURAL OFFERINGS
Students are allowed to participate in traditional school co-curricular/extracurricular activities if approved by the
associated organization.
Students attending Idea Charter School will be able to participate in all DC Everest athletics. See an advisor
to discuss how to get involved with athletic teams at the middle school, junior high or senior high.
Idea Charter School is not a traditional school and does not provide the typical athletic and extracurricular
offerings on site. However, the Governance Board and advisors of Idea Charter School support educating the
whole child and believe that there are many alternative ways to meet educational goals. Idea Charter School
sponsored clubs and performance arts activities may be scheduled during the year based on student interest. Other
alternatives may include private lessons, community teams/leagues, YMCA programs, etc. Students must consult
with their advisor to determine needs and wants in extracurricular areas.
Parents and students are encouraged to facilitate the organization of extracurricular opportunities at Idea Charter
School if enough interest exists.
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III. LEARNING EXPECTATIONS
SCOPE AND SEQUENCE PROGRESS EXPECTATIONS
Minor students (grades 6 – 8) are expected to earn 21 credits during their
minor years to include the following:
6th Grade – (25-33% of Scope and Sequence completed)
7th Grade – (60-66% of Scope and Sequence completed)
8th Grade – (100% of Scope and Sequence completed)
Major students (grades 9 – 12) are expected to earn 28 credits to
graduate
from Idea Charter School. Credits earned must be in the following
areas.
9th Grade – (25% of Scope and Sequence completed)
10th Grade – (50% of Scope and Sequence completed)
11th Grade – (75% of Scope and Sequence completed)
MINOR CAREER – 21 Credits
(By the end of 8th Grade)
Language Arts 6
Science 3
Math - 3
Social Studies 3
PE- 1.5
Electives – 1.5
Advisory/Community Service - 3
MAJOR CAREER– 28 Credits
(By the end of 12th Grade)
Language Arts – 7
Science – 3
Math – 3
Social Studies – 3
PE – 1.5
Health - .5
Electives – 6
Advisory/ Community Service – 4
12th Grade – (100% of Scope and Sequence completed)
Each student shall complete a senior project and show documentation of acceptance prior to graduation to a
continuing education/training or military program to the advisors. See Idea Charter School Policy 5210 for a
full listing of graduation requirements. Students should be aware of future college choices and entrance
requirements of those colleges when making decisions about earning core credit. For example, some
universities require four years of math, science, social studies, and some level of foreign language.
ACADEMIC PROGRESS REPORTING
Academic progress reports will be provided to parents at the end of each block. The academic reports shall
include information on Scope and Sequence progress and completed projects. Every project will have written
feedback in a narrative format as well as a completed rubric identifying completion of project objectives and goals
on Project Foundry, which can be viewed at any time.
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STATUS AND PRIVILEGE
All students at Idea Charter School have basic rights and privileges (workstation and computer, access to
technology, adequate freedom of movement during work times, etc.)
Students who are "on-track," both in current and cumulative academic standing will be eligible for certain
privileges as designed by the learning community
Unique privileges may be applied for and will only be afforded to students demonstrating outstanding
leadership at Idea Charter School
*For more information, please see the Idea Charter School Progress Expectations.
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LACK OF PROGRESS
Idea Charter School is an educational choice for students in the D.C. Everest School District and the surrounding
community. Idea Charter School provides students with an enjoyable, autonomous learning experience that
prepares students for future success. However, the rigorous nature of this choice is not right for everyone, and
some students may not find success in this environment. The staff and Governance Board have put together a
process for transitioning a student from Idea Charter School to another school inside or outside of the D.C. Everest
School District. For more information, please see the Idea Charter School Progress Expectations.
IV. PROCEDURES
SCHOOL FEES
School fees are assessed at $50.00 per student per school year. School fees are due during the first week of each
school year. Checks must be made to Idea Charter School. Students may incur additional project-related costs.
ATTENDANCE/TIMELINES
Attendance is a crucial aspect of success at Idea Charter School. If a student must be absent or has a medical or
dental appointment, a parent must call or send a written and signed parental permission note to the
school. Absences for which a written statement by a physician, or other authority as listed in State Statute
118.15(3)(a), is required but not presented are unexcused.
Excused absences such as family trips require a written request from a parent prior to date of absence.
All students are expected to arrive at Idea Charter School no later than 8:00 a.m. (7:30 for students taking direct
instruction math) Students who are late miss valuable working time and interrupt other students. Students are
tardy if they are not at their workstation at 8:00 and again at 12:00. If a student is tardy, appropriate consequences
will be applied.
Idea Charter School adheres to the Idea Charter School Governing Board attendance guidelines. For details about
excused or unexcused absences, tardiness, and truancy see the Idea Charter School policy #5113(a).
Habitual absences and continued tardiness without sufficient excuse will be considered truancy. Attendance
concerns may be handled on a case-by-case basis utilizing the student's personalized learning plan (PLP).
ILLNESS OR OTHER EMERGENCIES
Students who become ill or have emergencies while at school must notify school staff. Staff will then contact
parents if necessary. Students who need to go home must have parental permission and sign out.
HEALTH SERVICES
Parents/guardians are required to complete a health condition/emergency information form and return it to Idea
Charter School by the end of the first week of school.
To prevent the spread of communicable disease, staff must be informed of all students who have contracted a
communicable disease including, but not limited to, the following: chicken pox, pinkeye (conjunctivitis), measles,
mumps, rubella, impetigo, ringworm, head lice, scabies, strep throat, etc. Contact the district health nurse
regarding readmission guidelines for each particular disease.
If a student becomes ill or injured at school, first aid or other necessary care will be given immediately. School
personnel will not assume responsibility for any medical treatment beyond first aid for which they have been
trained. Prescription drugs and/or medication, including aspirin and Tylenol, may be administered once the
proper paperwork has been completed by a parent and physician. All medication, over-the-counter and
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prescription must be kept in a secure location. If your child becomes ill at school, every attempt will be made to
send your child home. Should your child have an injury of a serious nature, parents will be called immediately;
if parents cannot be contacted, an EMT or paramedics will be called.
For guidelines regarding administration of medication to students, refer to the D.C. Everest School District
policy #5440
FIELD TRIPS
Parents will be asked to sign a year-long permission form for student travel. Special field trips outside of the
school district will require additional permission from parents/guardians. For more information, see Community
Travel Release Form.
OUTSIDE RESEARCH
Students leaving for live resource interviews, research, or library use must have a Community Travel Release
completed by their guardian on file and a completed Site Visitation Request Form signed by a guardian and
given to their advisor before the off campus visit. Students must follow sign-in and sign-out procedures.
CLEANING RESPONSIBILITIES
All students will be expected to give back to the Idea Charter School community through cleaning chores at the
end of school day. Students can do their part each day by cleaning up immediately after they create a mess,
reminding others to clean up their messes, sorting recyclables and trash into the correct containers, doing dishes
as they are used; however, that will not cover all cleaning issues. As members of a small school, with part-time
custodial help, it is important for all members to give back to their community and do their best to keep their
school clean and organized. Each day students and staff will be expected to complete small duties (vacuum, wipe
down microwave, wash remaining dishes, snow shoveling etc.) to keep our school clean.
RECYCLING EXPECTATION
The Idea Charter School community is looking to do its part in making our world a little greener. With this in
mind, Idea Charter School staff and students are expected to dispose of all items that can be recycled in the proper
containers.
GRADUATION CELEBRATION
The Idea Charter School graduation occurs the evening of the first Monday of June.
END OF YEAR
Students at Idea Charter School have the option to earn a staggered end to the school year. Students who have
completed or exceeded their academic requirements and assigned cleaning tasks are eligible to finish their year
early. See annual calendar for yearly date.
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V. OPERATIONS
SCHOOL MANAGEMENT AND GOVERNANCE
The governance of Idea Charter School employs a multi-tiered approach:
 D.C. Everest School District Board of Education
o Idea Charter School is an instrumentality of the D.C. Everest School District.
 Idea Charter School Governance Board
o Meets regularly to review progress, policy, finances, etc.
 Idea Charter School Administrator and Advisors
o Conduct administrative duties to operate Idea Charter School.
o Conduct day-to-day operations of Idea Charter School and facilitate education of students.
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Idea Charter School Grounds
Idea
Charter
School
DAILY SCHEDULE
7:15
DOORS OPEN/COMMUNITY VISITING
TIME
8:00-8:30
8:30 –
ADVISORY
PROJECT WORK TIME
10:00-
CLASS/SCIENCE
10:45-11:00
11:00-11:45
11:45-
BREAK
SEMINAR/CLASS TIME
LUNCH
12:15-
CLEAN TIME
12:25-1:10
1:10-2:15
2:15-3:00
READING
PROJECT WORK TIME
MATH
10:00
10:45
12:15
12:25
Staff will typically be leaving school between 3:30 - 4:00. All students should plan to leave the school by
3:30pm, unless arrangements have been made with an advisor.
BLOCK SCHEDULE
Idea operates on a six (6) block schedule; each block is approximately six (6) weeks. Within each block
students should complete 1/6 of their annual requirements. In addition, each block will have community service
opportunities, educational field trips and experiential experiences. Each block has a home study day with the
exception of block 6.
HOME STUDY DAYS
Idea Charter School’s calendar differs slightly from the district’s calendar. There are Home Study Days scheduled
throughout the school year and students are expected to work off school grounds on project-related tasks. Students are
required to pre-plan an agenda for the day; parents sign off on each task once it is completed. Completed/signed forms will
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be collected by the advisors on the day following the Home Study Day. Failure to turn in a signed form will result in loss
of school privileges. Students are to log their learning in Project Foundry for work completed on Home Study Days.
Conferences
Student-led conferences will be held twice during each school year. The first will occur in the fall. The second set will
conclude the year. Set for the final three days of school, parents and students will meet with their advisor to conclude the
year’s progress, forecast the upcoming year, and plan summer work as needed.
2013-2014 Idea Charter School Calendar
Routine Building Procedures
Idea Charter School has in place a non-crisis security plan/practice for daily use as follows:
1) Staff members are responsible for limiting access to building zones not authorized for use during and
outside of normal school hours. Staff members will be responsible to assure that all exterior doors remain
locked and operational.
2) All advisors and school/community groups utilizing building space after school hours and on weekends
are responsible for securing doors, limiting access, and assuring that the building is clear and locked prior
to exiting the building.
CRISIS PLAN
A Crisis Plan is on file at Idea Charter School and the district office. Staff will brief students on all components
of the plan. If a crisis should occur, advisors will contact parents as soon as possible. If students are evacuated
from the building, they will meet with advisors in their assigned areas and attendance will be taken. All students
will be expected to stay with the group for safety and security reasons.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SITUATIONS
A staff member must be notified immediately of an emergency medical situation. Once staff has been alerted,
students are expected to clear the area and let staff members who are trained in first aid perform their
duties. Students are also expected to follow all staff instructions during emergency situations for their own safety
and the safety of others.
FIRE SAFETY PLAN
The Idea Charter School practices fire safety once a month.
TORNADO SAFETY PLAN
When Idea Charter School is threatened with severe weather situations where tornadoes are likely, students will
be moved from their workstations to the designated areas. If the severe weather were to occur at the end of the
school day, students and staff will remain in the secure areas until the conditions outside become safe. Idea
Charter School staff will not answer the door/phone for parents to remove their students during a tornado threat
to assure that parents, students, and staff are all safe.
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VI. POLICIES
PHONE POLICY
Students at Idea Charter School are trusted to use technology effectively and wisely. In accordance with this
policy, cell phones are permitted at Idea Charter School. Ringers must be off at all times. Making and
receiving calls, text messaging and the like will be permitted before and after school and during the lunch
hour. Students will sometimes need to make appointment calls as part of their research; therefore, other cell
phone use will be handled on a case-by-case basis as requested by the student. Please refer to Idea Charter
School policy #5360.
ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY
Students are allowed to listen to music while working at Idea Charter School. However, live-streaming is not
allowed. Students will use headphones at an appropriate volume as to not distract or bother others. This privilege
can be revoked for students who are not meeting the academic expectations of Idea Charter School. Please refer
to Idea Charter School policy #5360.
TECHNOLOGY USE POLICY
Access to technology is a privilege and demands responsibility. All students will be expected to comply with
technology use rules established by the D.C. Everest School District.
Technology use at Idea Charter School is to be used solely for educational purposes. All electronic
communications are not private, but subject to review and monitoring by staff. All school or personal electronic
devices that are used while at Idea may be searched and programs deleted if they are not supporting education
and learning. No software can be installed until it has been approved by school district technology staff.
Students must notify staff immediately if they encounter materials that are offensive or violate appropriate use.
For more information, please see the D.C. Everest Acceptable Use Policy for Technology Services.
THEFT OF VALUABLES
Students are responsible for ensuring that their valuables are safely secured. Items of value must be labeled
indicating ownership. Thefts should be reported immediately. Theft will be dealt with on a case- by-case
basis. It is the right of the student from whom something has been taken to request restorative justice. If the
article is worth a substantial amount, the police will be called and a report will be filed.
STUDENT FILE/DATA STORAGE
Over the course of a project, students will generate computer data in the form of written documents, images,
presentations, etc. Students are responsible for safeguarding their own data by storing it in the appropriate places.
Students should NOT store data on the hard drives (C: or D: drives) of their school computers, as these drives are
periodically wiped clean by D.C. Everest School District computer technicians. Instead, all student data should
be stored on the network drive, which is backed up and accessible from any computer at Idea Charter School. In
addition, students are encouraged to regularly back up their files to a flash drive, which can also be used to transfer
files between school and home. Each summer, technicians may or may not clear data from the network drive;
therefore, students should leave each school year with data saved to a flash drive to assure that files are not lost.
LUNCH POLICY
During lunchtime, only students who have junior credit status, and are in good academic standing, at Idea Charter
School (14 Credits) may leave the campus. Lunch occurs between 11:30 am and 12:00pm. Students are expected
to eat their lunch between these times and return to their desks prepared reading time at the end of lunch.
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SNACK POLICY
Idea Charter School students are allowed the freedom to consume snack food and drinks with caps/covers while
working at their desks; however, it is expected that desks will be cleaned up at the end of each day, with no food
or beverage containers left behind. Students must also recognize the difference between a snack and a
meal. Students are allowed to have snacks and drinks during work time; however, foods needing preparation
are limited to lunch time.
SCHOOL FINES
STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COMPUTERS, BOOKS, INSTRUCTIONAL
MATERIALS, WORKSTATIONS, DESK KEYS ($25 REPLACEMENT COST) AND FACILITIES
PROVIDED TO THEM. A FINE MAY BE IMPOSED FOR ITEMS THAT ARE MISUSED OR LOST.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION OR SUSPENSION OF PRIVILEGES MAY ALSO BE INVOKED IF FINES ARE
NOT PAID PROMPTLY.
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DRESS STANDARD
Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner that will not detract from learning. Examples of
inappropriate dress include, but are not limited to, exposed undergarments, bare midriff shirts, shirts without a
shoulder strap, or see-through clothing.
1. During the school day, all head coverings shall be taken off (individual exceptions may be made for
students with medical conditions or religious beliefs on a case-by-case basis). This is universal to males
and females.
2. No student shall be permitted to wear clothing displaying pictures and/or writing referring to alcoholic
beverages, tobacco products, sexual references, profanity, or promotion of gambling, illegal drugs, or
gangs.
3. No accessories such as chains, heavy necklaces, or spikes that could be used as a weapon may be worn.
Any symbols, styles, or attire associated with intimidation, violence, or violent groups may not be worn
or displayed at school or school-sponsored events.
4. No gang insignia may be worn, possessed, used, distributed, displayed or sold by students on school
grounds or at school activities. The reference to “gang insignia” would encompass items of clothing
signifying gang activity by the manner in which they are worn.
This code is not intended to limit the right of the advisors or administrator to establish rules or restrictions
regarding other dress or paraphernalia disrupting or threatening to disrupt the learning environment of our school.
STUDENTS DRIVING STUDENTS
Students are not allowed to drive other students from Idea Charter School during the school day, unless the
driver and rider's parents both have submitted signed notes granting permission to the school. Additionally, a
copy of the student’s driver license and proof of proper insurance must be on file at the school. Refer to district
policy #3531 for form and additional information.
DISCIPLINE
The Idea Charter School staff understands that when problems occur between others or others make poor choices,
an opportunity exists to restore relationships. Idea Charter School uses restorative measures which seek to make
things "right" for all parties involved. Circles, conferencing, and mediation are tools used to help problem solve
and resolve conflicts. Students are expected to participate in the restorative justice process by allowing others an
opportunity to voice their feelings about the issue, while actively listening and doing what they can to right
whatever wrong has been committed.
All discipline will first be handled between student and advisor. Parents will be notified on a case-by-case basis
when using restorative practices; parents will always be notified when students receive traditional consequences.
Unresolved and unrestored disciplinary issues may require administrator and parent participation. Severe
individual situations will be dealt with according to school board policy and state statutes.
In addition to school consequences, students who violate the law while on school property or at school
sponsored events may be cited according to local police authority.
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APPENDIX A
IDEA CHARTER SCHOOL PROGRESS EXPECTATIONS
These progress expectations were created to ensure that students at Idea Charter School are productive and have a
healthy environment in which to learn.
Indicators of Lack of Progress
 No project proposed during first five school days of each block
 Exhibiting behaviors of concern (see back)
 Failure to make adequate progress on scope and sequence
 Failure to make adequate progress in math
 Attendance issues
 Students who exhibit one or more of the above indicators of lack of progress will be subject to the
interventions listed in Steps One, Two, and Three, below.
Step One Options
 Parent phone call/email
 Meeting with advisor to address concerns and write personal goal statement
 Structured project in core subject areas with timelines/expectations
 Additional structure added to daily schedule
 Daily/weekly goal sheet
Step Two Options
 Parent meeting with staff to discuss student issues
 Revisit and revise personal goal statement with advisor
 Completely structured day
 Loss of some school privileges (see back)
 Structured projects in one or more core areas
 Letter home (concerns put in writing)
 Time logs shown to advisor daily
 Referral to Guidance Counselor
Step Three Options
 Parent meeting with staff to discuss continued student issues
 All projects restricted to core subject areas
 Loss of all school privileges (see back)
 Time logs taken home daily and signed by parent
 Referral to psychologist or social worker
 Implement Progress Monitoring
 Initiation of student contract with specific academic and behavioral goals
 Letter home (concerns put in writing)
I have read the above Idea Charter School Progress Policy and understand the consequences of not abiding by this
document.
______________________________________
Student Signature
___________________
Date
______________________________________
Advisor Signature
___________________
Date
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APPENDIX B
BEHAVIORS OF CONCERN
Exhibiting behaviors that disrupt our learning environment may result in a loss of school privileges, discipline referral,
parent contact, and/or moving to Steps One, Two, or Three on our Progress Expectations. As perceived by Idea Charter
School staff or fellow students, these behaviors include, but are not limited to:
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Causing others to be off task
o Examples include, but are not limited to:
 Having to be asked more than once by staff to be seated
 Talking too much or too loudly
 Playing music too loudly
 Participating in interpersonal drama
 Taking too long to transition
Plagiarism
Inappropriate use of technology
o Examples include, but are not limited to:
 Gaming during work time
 Circumventing computer security
 Installing software without permission
 Streaming music/videos during work time
 Illegal downloading through school network (music, video, software, games, etc.)
Traveling off of school grounds without permission
Presence in restricted school areas without permission
Dress code violations
Inappropriate language
Failure to follow daily work expectations (not participating in advisory, read time, math time, etc.)
Theft
Wasting school supplies
Smoking on school grounds or school trips
Alcohol or drug use, abuse, or possession at school or surrounding areas
Possession or display of alcohol or drug paraphernalia (marijuana leaves, etc.)
Fighting
Harassment
Bullying
Insubordination
Damaging property
For further information please refer to Idea Charter School Students Rights and Responsibilities Handbook that is
available at ideacharterschool.com.
Privileges
Students should be able to enjoy certain privileges at Idea Charter School. These privileges include, but are not limited to:
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Cell phone use
Headphone use
Internet use
Electronic device use
Computer use
Off-campus travel
Commons
Leaving campus during lunch, with parent permission (refer to district policy #3531)
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APPENDIX C
COMMUNITY TRAVEL RELEASE
Idea Charter School is a project-based school. We believe that the community is an extension of
the school from which many students will benefit. As a part of project-based learning, students
are required to conduct research which may include connections to professionals in the
community, utilizing the public library, touring of business and industry, being involved in
community government, etc.
Please read and sign below.
Parent
I give my permission for my son/daughter to travel in the community in order to conduct
research for project-based learning. I do not require permission each time my child utilizes the
community for research projects.
_____________________________________
____________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date
Student
I agree to the following:
1. I will always notify my advisor when I need to access the community for research or project
completion by submitting a Site Visitation Request Form, signed by my advisor, parent and me.
2. I will communicate with my parent or guardian when I am planning on going into the community
during the school day.
3. I will provide both parent and advisor with the timeframe and purpose of community
involvement.
4. I understand that I am responsible for my behavior while in the community, and I will represent
Idea Charter School in a favorable way while in the community.
5. I understand that it is my obligation to go directly to and come directly from the approved
community resource in a timely manner.
6. I will always sign out when leaving and sign in when returning to the school.
____________________________________
____________________
Student Signature
Date
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APPENDIX D
SITE VISITATION REQUEST FORM
Students leaving for live resource interviews, research, or library use must have a Community
Travel Release Form completed by their guardian on file and a completed Site Visitation Request
Form signed by a guardian and given to their advisor by 8 a.m. on the day of the off-campus
visit.
Name____________________________________ Date______________________
Field Study Destination________________________________________________
Phone Number (Cell and/or Destination) __________________________________
Departure Time______________________ Return Time_____________________
Means of travel______________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature_____________________________________________
Advisor Signature____________________________________________________
Tasks for the day:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Student Signature____________________________ Date ______________
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APPENDIX F
D. C. EVEREST ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
FOR TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
STUDENT
I have read and do understand the Acceptable Use Policy for Technology Services of the D. C.
Everest School District and agree to abide by them. I further understand that any violation of
the policies referenced above is unethical and may constitute a violation of law. Should I
commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, school disciplinary action (including
fines) may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action may be pursued.
Student’s Full Name (Please print) __________________________________________________
Student’s Signature _____________________________________________________________
Date ______________________________ Grade ____________________________________
Building _______________________________________________________________________
PARENT OR GUARDIAN
As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read the Acceptable Use Policy for Technology
Services regarding the acceptable use of the school district computer system and the Internet. I
understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. However, I also recognize it is
impossible for the school district to restrict access to all controversial materials, and I will not
hold the school district or its employees or agents responsible for materials acquired on the
Internet. I also understand that I am financially responsible for my student’s actions should
those actions result in damage to district resources. I hereby give permission for my child to use
the networked computer system which includes filtered Internet access.
Parent/Guardian Name (Please print) _______________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________________________
Date ____________________________________
SCHOOL BOARD
Exhibit Adopted: 11/23/99
Exhibit Revised: 12/18/07
KAG:ems
D.C. Everest Area School District
6300 Alderson Street
Weston, Wisconsin 54476
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