Lawrence Virtual School
High School Academy
Student/Parent Handbook
2015-2016
Serving the Online Needs of Kansans, Grades K-12
Dear LVS Families,
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your family’s journey through learning in your home. No responsibility in life is
more complex or demanding than being a parent in today’s society. When we choose to take such an active role in our
children’s education, we become much more aware of what enters their heart and mind. As complex and demanding as
it may be, there is no greater reward than being there for our children and watching their growth on a daily basis.
The front cover of this document is labeled as our school’s “handbook.” I prefer to refer to it as a “guidebook” as it is
designed to “guide” our collective efforts by outlining certain policies, expectations and programming. While these
school policies serve as a guide to our day to day service to you, I want to assure you that “policies of the heart” take
priority over school policies. That is to say that these are the parameters designed to guide us as partners in education;
however, as circumstances in your world arise that need a gentle shifting of service, a unique approach or modification
of processes, we are committed to doing everything we can to respond to those needs and assist your family.
Connection and communication are cornerstones of LVS service and success. We want to be as connected to your world
as you need us to be and ask that you not be shy about your connections and communication with us. Irrespective of
how big or little you see an issue or a need being, don’t hesitate to ask, share and/or suggest so that we may provide
your family with a meaningful learning experience throughout the 2015-16 school year.
We are so fortunate to have such a magnificent staff, who with you will indeed make certain that your child(ren) have a
positive and productive school year!
Take Care,
G. Keith Wilson
Principal
Lawrence Virtual School
[email protected]
785.832.5620 LVS Office
www.lawrencevs.org
www.facebook.com/LawrenceVirtualSchoolLVS
www.pinterest.com/lvslvhs
Educating Kansans Online, Grades K-12
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Introduction
This Student Handbook sets forth some general guidance for parents and students enrolled in the Lawrence
Virtual School (LVS) program, High School Academy (grades 9-12). LVS is a public school program and is
subject to the rules and regulations of the Kansas State Department of Education.
LVS Mission Statement
The four pillars on which we base our school mission are:
 Innovation
 Relevance
 Independence
 Rigor
Our Mission:
Lawrence Virtual School ensures that each student will become a self-motivated, self-directed, life-long
learner with a strong sense of community as a result of innovative, relevant, independent and rigorous
curriculum.
College Credit Now Offered
The Lawrence Virtual School has paired with Highland Community College as of the school year 20152016 for our high school juniors and seniors to be able to earn college credit while attending LVS!
Students are able to select from a variety of free courses (textbook fee still applies) as well as courses
available for a nominal cost. This is a unique and exciting opportunity that no other Virtual School in the
state of Kansas offers. All courses are certified by the Kansas Board of Regents and are available to
transfer to 4-year universities. For information on these courses, please contact School Counselor, Lisa
Lyke. The first round of classes is set to begin October 20, 2014. In order to be eligible for these courses,
the following minimum requirements are expected:
LVS High School Academy GPA of 3.0 or higher (exceptions may be granted with
Counselor/Administration Approval)
In good standing in all courses with LVS High School Academy
For all courses, free and those available for tuition, a minimum of a 17 on the ACT Reading Section
or 81 or 40 on the Compass Score Placement Test/Asset Score Placement Test respectively.
For all English Language Arts courses, a minimum of 18 on the ACT English Section or 56 or 39 on
the Compass Score Placement Test/Asset Score Placement Test respectively.
For all Mathematics courses, a minimum of 22 on the ACT Mathematics Section or 61 or 46 on the
Compass Score Placement Test/Asset Score Placement Test respectively.
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LVS Staff
Principal:
Email:
Office Phone:
Keith Wilson
[email protected]
785-832-5620
Asst. Principal:
Email:
Office Phone:
Monte Westfall
[email protected]
785.832.5620
Counselor:
Email:
Office Phone:
Lisa Lyke
[email protected]
716.566.2742
Professional Teaching Staff
Last Name
Barraza
Clark
Davis
Elkin
Kimball
Nelson
Moidl
Petersen-Beard
Pugsley
Wilkins
First Name
Karen
Brandon
Lisa
Lauren
Michelle
Emily
Amy
Valerie
Jennifer
Sheila
Subject
Spanish/French
Health/PE
English Language Arts
Math/Physics
ELA/Social Studies
Social Studies
Science
Special Education
Music/FACS
Arts/Business
Phone
620.583.6771
620.263.3314
913.660.0910
573.442.9335
785.218.7026
913.206.1912
785.371.1245
785.493.8447
913.882.6154
785.594.2526
Email
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Student Support & Business Staff
Averill
Hamlin
Rego
Williams
Will
Jeff
Jacki
Erin
Operations
Technology Support
Business Services
Registrar
School 2014-2015 CALENDAR
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785.330.4964
785.330.4488
785.330.4375
785.330.2296
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Lawrence Virtual School 2015-2016 Calendar
AUGUST 2015
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USD 497 Staff Dev
LVS Staff Development
LVS Staff Development
First Day of School
LVS Staff Development
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Ice Cream & Hot dogs
At LVS 11:00 – 2:00
9 Prom (9-12)
15 Inclement Weather Day
If USD 497 utilizes one
18-22 I LOVE LVS Week
22 LVS Staff Development
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JANUARY 2016
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27 Last Teacher Day
Dates are subject to change,
additional dates are possible,
and more dates are listed on
the USD 497 Calendar.
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DECEMBER 2015
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25-27 Fall Recess
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Event: Wichita
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Event: Johnson County
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21-31 Winter Recess
24/25 LVS Offices Closed
1-29 Summer School
Session 1
1 LVS Offices Closed
4 Classes Resume
18 M.L. King Day
24-30 LVS Spirit Week
7/5 – 8/2 Summer School
Session 2
Staff Collaboration Meetings:
Fridays beginning 8/28/15 and
concluding 5/20/15
8:00 – K-2 & 3-5
9:00 – Full Staff Meeting
9:30 – 6-8 & 9-12
10:30 – Adjourn
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Table of Contents
Important Dates for 2015-2016……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..7
ACT Dates 2015-2016…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….7
Attendance Guidelines ......................................................................................................................................…7
Audit Days……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..8
Illness/Extended Inability to Participate…………………………………………………………………………………………………………8
Final Exams……...……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………8
Vacation policy .................................................................................................................................................... 8
Process for Withdrawal and Expulsion of Truant or Excessively Absent Students ............................................. 8
Grade Determination ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Grading Scale ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
Class Rank and Honor Roll Determination ........................................................................................................ 10
Grade Determination ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Graduation Requirements ................................................................................................................................. 11
Late Work Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 11
Guidelines for Integrity in Assessments and Assignments ............................................................................... 12
Plagiarism .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Source Citation .................................................................................................................................................. 13
Academic Integrity ............................................................................................................................................ 13
Report Cards ...................................................................................................................................................... 13
Student records ............................................................................................................................................... 144
Appeal of Final Semester Grades and Awarding of Credit ................................................................................ 14
Grade Promotion and Awarding of Credit ........................................................................................................ 14
Office Hours....................................................................................................................................................... 15
High School Clubs .............................................................................................................................................. 15
Code of Conduct & Standards of Participation ................................................................................................. 16
Monitoring......................................................................................................................................................... 17
LVS Indemnification Provision ........................................................................................................................... 17
FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) ............................................................................ 17-18
“I Understand” Statements ............................................................................................................................... 19
Kansas State Testing .......................................................................................................................................... 20
Course Materials ............................................................................................................................................... 21
Getting Started With the High School Academy at LVS .................................................................................... 21
Student Actions to Ensure Success ................................................................................................................... 22
Creating a Calendar ........................................................................................................................................... 22
Time Management ............................................................................................................................................ 22
Parent Actions to Help Ensure Student Success ............................................................................................... 23
Checking Student Progress ................................................................................................................................ 23
Complaint Response Procedure ........................................................................................................................ 24
Special Education .............................................................................................................................................. 25
2015-2016 Handbook High School Signature Page ........................................................................................... 26
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Important Dates for 2015-2016
Labor Day – September 7, 2015
Audit Days – September 16 & 23, 2015
Fall Recess – November 25-27, 2015
Fall Semester Finals – December 14-15, 2015
Winter Break – December 21, 2015, - January 3, 2016
Start of Second Semester – January 4, 2016
Martin Luther King Day – January 18, 2016
Spring Break – March 14-18, 2016
Prom – April 19, 2016
Graduation/National Honor Society Induction – May 21, 2016
Spring Semester Finals – May 23-24, 2016
Last Day of School – May 26, 2016
ACT Dates for 2015-2016
Test Date
September 12, 2015
October 24, 2015
December 12, 2015
February 6, 2016
April 9, 2016
June 11, 2016
Registration Ends
August 7, 2015
September 18, 2015
November 6, 2015
January 8, 2016
March 4, 2016
May 6, 2016
Late Registration Window
August 8 – 221, 2015
September 19 – October 2, 2015
November 7 – 20, 2015
January 9 – 15, 2016
March 5 – 18, 2016
May 7 – 20, 2016
LVS High School Academy’s attendance guidelines:
Instructional time is compiled each week.
Students are asked to attend school a specific number of hours each week (approximately 30 hours per
week for a full-time student)
Students are asked to follow the LVS instructional calendar; any changes should be reported to the
instructor.
All instructional time may be credited for “attendance;” students do not need to be online to count
that time for attendance.
Student absences will be tracked according to the school’s excessive absence and truancy policy. An
LVS student will be identified as “excessively absent” if either of the following two conditions is true:
o The student does not log instructional time for more than 10 consecutive days.
o The student logs 10% less time than 30 hours per week and is failing courses.
If a student’s attendance meets one of both of these excessively absent indicators, the student may be
withdrawn for being excessively absent.
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Audit Days
To determine student funding, the state requires an audit of mandatory attendance in September of all
schools. Per state legislation and the Enrollment Handbook: Virtual education students must attend stated
audit day(s) during the month of September and/or October. This year’s Audit Days are September 16th and
September 23rd, 2015. Families must complete work in every subject and fill out the Academic Activity Logs
on the two assigned days for the year. The registrar will print off the attendance screen for each student. LVS
will contact families via KMail, phone conference or Blackboard to fill out the Academic Activity Log. If
completed incorrectly, LVS will have the family submit the Academic Activity Log again. Families will sign and
send their Academic Activity Logs electronically via the Echo Sign process.
Illness/Extended Inability to Participate
If there is an extended leave of three days or more needed from courses, students are asked follow these
steps:
1. If you will be away from your dedicated learning environment, determine if Internet access is
available (through libraries, etc.).
2. Contact teachers and/or the School Counselor to explain the situation.
3. Discuss class alternatives with the instructor and/or School Counselor.
Final Exams
Students will take final exams at the end of both fall and spring semesters. There will not be excused absences
allowed for these exams. In order to protect test confidentiality all exams will need to be taken on assigned
days. Please note that these exams will be proctored by a LVS teacher at a testing location to be determined
by LVS. There will be two parts of the final. Part 1 will be taken during the assigned day and will follow testing
procedures used during the semester. Part 2 will be the in-person proctored portion of the exam taken at a
location to be determined by LVS.
Vacation policy
The Lawrence Virtual School is a public school program. Students must attend at least 90% of the possible
instructional hours for the school year AND must not miss school for 10 consecutive days in order to stay
enrolled. If a family needs to plan a vacation, this vacation must not last more than 10 consecutive days
without making prior arrangements with teachers and administration. Assignments due during a familyscheduled vacation must be completed in accordance with instructors, so it is the student’s responsibility to
contact his or her teachers prior to this absence.
Process for Withdrawal and Expulsion of Truant or Excessively Absent Students
According to Kansas law, a number of conditions can constitute truancy. A student is truant if they are
between the ages of 7 and 18 and missed 3 consecutive school days without an excuse, 5 unexcused absences
in a semester or 7 unexcused absences in a school year. A student who meets any of those conditions can be
reported for truancy.
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The following is the process that will be used:
1. LVS monitors student attendance weekly.
2. LVS sends an e-mail or conducts a phone conference informing parents that his/her student has
been absent, based on the reports run by the registrar. LVS creates an attendance action plan
with the parent and student. Adherence to this action plan is monitored by LVS. A response
from the family is expected within 24 hours.
3. LVS is responsible for monitoring progress toward the attendance action plan and updating the
school administration regarding the family’s progress at the dates outlined in the plan.
4. If the attendance action plan is not fulfilled, the student is withdrawn from LVS due to excessive
absenteeism.
5. If there is no response within 24 hours, LVS forwards the student’s name, contact information
and file documentation (how many calls missed, etc.) to the school administration. A letter is
sent to the parents via e-mail and ground postage that notifies the parents their student has
been withdrawn from the LVS due to excessive absenteeism.
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Grades
Grade Determination
Lawrence Virtual School High School Academy grades are determined by the sum total of points a student
earns on all graded assignments and tests.
Points earned by student/ Total points possible = Grade
Example: In his or her math class the student earns 563 points out of a total of 700 possible points. The grade
would be 80%.
563/700 = 80%
Grading Scale
A=
90 - 100%
B=
80 - 89%
C=
70 - 79%
D=
60 - 69%
F=
0 - 59%
*If you earn an F in a course, you may be required to retake the course in order to meet graduation
requirements.
Class Rank and Honor Roll Determination
Class rank is determined by rank ordering the cumulative grade point average of all students within a grade
level. The following values are assigned to semester grades in each course (please note that Honors and AP
courses as weighted differently):
Letter
Grade
A
B
C
D
F
Non-Honors/AP
Courses
4
3
2
1
0
Honors Courses
AP Courses
4.5
3.5
2.5
1.5
0
5
4
3
2
0
Students earning a semester grade point average of 3.0 or higher are eligible for the Honor Roll.
Grade Determination
Grades are determined based on how well a student performs on graded activities within each course. Graded
activities include:
Practice Lessons
Threaded Discussions
Web Explorations, Projects
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Labs
Journal Entries
Class Discussions
Quizzes
Tests
Some assignments are teacher-graded and others are computer-graded. During the semester, students and
parents can view grades in the grade book for each course. It is important to note that these grades are
updated every time an assignment is graded.
Please note: If a deadline has passed and the teacher has not entered a zero for that assignment, the
student’s grade may be temporarily inflated.
Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements for LVS include 23 credits earned during the 9th through 12th grades. A half credit is
issued for the successful completion of one semester (1/2 school year) of a course. Specific courses may be
required within each category.
English/Language Arts-4 credits
Mathematics-3 credits
Science-3 credits
Social Studies-3.5 credits
Physical Education and Health-1 credit
Fine Arts-1 credit
Electives-7.5 credits
Late Work Policy
Under normal circumstances, assignments are due the week that they are assigned. If you find
yourself unable to meet that weekly requirement, you should consult your course instructor for a
possible extension.
Communication is key when confronted with late assignments. Please use all methods of
communication at your disposal (phone, email, KMail, etc.).
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Guidelines for Integrity in Assessments and Assignments
Assessments, such as quizzes, and tests, are a critical part of any academic program. They offer important
information about your progress toward mastery. This information is helpful only if accurate. It can be
accurate only if the assessment represents your work and only your work.
Unless otherwise instructed by your teacher or by a specific assessment, you are expected to honor the
following principles while taking assessments:
You and you alone will take the assessment.
You will not copy or redistribute any part of the assessment in any way—electronically, verbally, or
on paper.
You will treat the assessment as “closed book”—meaning that you may not use any textbooks,
references, or other materials (printed or electronic) during the assessment—unless your teacher
or the specific assessment otherwise instructs (for example, you are specifically told to refer to
certain pages in a book as part of the assessment).
You will treat the assessment as “single browser”—meaning that during the assessment you may
not log in a second time to your course, or open your course or related materials on another
browser on another computer.
Your answers will represent your work and only your work, free of any outside assistance. You will
not plagiarize in any way.
You will not confer with other students, family members, or acquaintances, either in person or
through electronic communication, during the assessment.
You will be asked to submit written assignments for teachers to grade. Your written work should be
completely free of plagiarism. Plagiarism is copying another person’s work without providing direct reference
to the author, original print material or website. Put simply, always give credit where it is due. Be sure to ask
your teacher if you have questions regarding citing sources. Schools have web tools available to check for
student plagiarism.
Unless your teacher or specific directions inform you of exceptions, you are expected to follow these
principles while taking assessments and completing written assignments. Only by honoring these principles
can you assure both academic and personal integrity.
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Plagiarism
The definition of plagiarism is copying or imitating the language, ideas, and thoughts of another writer and
passing them off as your own original work. Specific examples of plagiarism that will not tolerated are
Copying, paraphrasing or summarizing another person’s work without citing that source.
Using material, including photographs, from the internet or any other source and representing as your
own, even if you have changed some of the words.
Having someone else write the assignment or rephrase any portion of that assignment.
Directly copying or rephrasing student aids (CliffsNotes, for example), critical sources, or reference
materials in part or whole without acknowledging those sources.
Source Citation
Many courses require written work where students need to cite sources. Any direct quotations from a
textbook can simply be cited as (Author, page number). Any quotations from outside sources require full
citations, including author, title, publisher, date of publication, and page number. If a student cites
information found on a website, he or she must provide the complete web page or site title, URL, author (if
known), page number (if applicable), publication date of the site (if available), and date of access.
Students are responsible for their own work on unit tests and final exams. Students are not allowed to use
notes, quizzes, or textbooks on unit tests or on the final exams. Students are not permitted to share work
with other students on unit tests or final exams. If a student does not complete his or her own work or shares
work with others on unit tests and/or final exams, he or she will not receive credit for the work and is at risk of
suspension or expulsion from LVS.
Students must cite sources in all assignments, tests, and exams. Students do not receive credit for work that
does not appropriately cite sources.
Academic Integrity
All assignments are assumed to be the student’s original work. Therefore, if the student utilizes any ideas that
are not his or her original thoughts, the student cites his or her sources using MLA format. A student who fails
to abide by these standards will be reported to administration and will be subject to disciplinary action.
Consequences
First offense – The student and parent will attend a conference with the high school academy administration
or counselor and teacher. The student will not receive credit for the plagiarized assignment. In addition, he or
she will be required to complete the Citing Sources course located in Shmoop. When the student has
complied, he or she will be allowed to complete the assignment for a possible 50% of the original points.
Second offense – The student and parent will attend a conference with the high school academy
administration. The student will not be allowed to revise the assignment.
Third offense – Expulsion.
Report Cards
Fall semester report cards are issued in January, and spring semester report cards are issued in June.
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Student records
Student records are maintained at the LVS office. Please contact the LVS office to obtain a copy of student
records. If families change their address, telephone, or place of employment, please notify the LVS Office.
Parents are responsible for keeping contact information current within the account setup section of the
Learning Management System.
Appeal of Final Semester Grades and Awarding of Credit
Students and parents may appeal a student’s final grade or the school’s decision to award credit for a course
up to 30 days after the end of a semester. Appeals will not be considered later than 30 days after the end of a
semester.
Grade Promotion and Awarding of Credit
Students are promoted based on the number of credits earned. Credit is not awarded for courses in which a
student earns an F or fails to log 90% of the required attendance. Students may repeat a course in which they
have earned an F. Credit is granted for courses in which the student completes the attendance requirement
and earns an A, B or C. Credit may be granted for courses in which a student earns a D, with teacher
recommendation. Algebra, Geometry, Biology, and English are examples of courses in which a D may not
entitle a student to progress on to the next course. Grade level classification is based on when the student
entered a Kansas public high school. Example: If the student enrolled in 9th grade in a Kansas high school for
the 13-14 school year, in 14-15 the student will be placed in 10th, in 15-16 the student will be placed in 11th
and in 16-17 the student will be placed in 12th and will be expected to graduate. If the student comes from
out of state, homeschooling or private school, assuming all required documentation is submitted, the student
will be placed based on the number of credits earned (see chart below)
0 – 5 credits
6 -11 credits
12-17 credits
17- 23 credits
9th grade
10th grade
11th grade
12th grade
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General Education
Office Hours
Teachers hold regular, scheduled office hours. This is a time where students and teachers meet for additional
instruction, reviews, or question and answer sessions. Currently office hours are set up in teachers’ Class
Connect calendars and one-on-one meetings are held in a separate office room as needed.
Outings
LVS hosts quarterly outings throughout the state. These outings may be attended by any student, regardless
of the area in which a family resides. It is our goal to provide quality and educational outings that also
promote a social atmosphere.
Opportunities for students to come together are an important part of our school model. They provide an
opportunity for families and teachers to meet and often provide reinforcement of course learning objectives.
The following policies apply to school events:
1. At least one adult needs to be present for every five students.
2. Parents must sign the Permission Slip/Waiver of Liability Form before the event begins.
3. Under no circumstances are students permitted to ride in a car with an LVS teacher or other staff
member.
4. Under no circumstances is a student permitted to stay overnight in a teacher or other staff
member’s home.
High School Clubs
It is a goal at LVS to foster a sense of community for our families during the school year. In an effort to help
families build more meaningful relationships with one another, LVS offers online clubs based on students’ and
families’ interests. Clubs meet “on-line” and/or at specific locations throughout the state. LVS teachers
facilitate clubs in which students may participate. More information regarding club offerings will be
communicated to families. The clubs offered this year will be created as students’ and teachers’ interests
permit.
Information about clubs can be obtained by e-mailing the teacher sponsor(s) as well as checking the school
announcements for updates and activities.
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Code of Conduct & Standards of Participation
STANDARDS OF PARTICIPATION
As we said above, each user of the community is solely responsible for the content posted through his/her login credentials. Sharing your username and password with others is strictly prohibited, as is logging in with
someone else’s username and password.
The following tones, language, materials and behaviors are strictly prohibited
Posting personally identifiable information (whether directly or indirectly through a link to a personal
profile) such as phone number, IM, email address or street address in any format other than a private
message
Antagonism or prejudice of any kind with respect to race, religion, gender, intelligence, age,
orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status
Posting material including photographs and videos inappropriate for minors (anyone under the age of
18)
Any criminal or other illegal activity including encouraging the unlawful use, possession, manufacture
or distribution of tobacco, drugs or alcohol
Illegally posting, distributing, uploading or downloading copyrighted work (whether music,
video, words, images, drawings, pictures, software or otherwise), or providing any information to
circumvent copyright protection devices or software
Sharing quiz, test, assessment, essay or term paper questions or answers or undertaking any other
action that would violate any code of conduct, expectations or rules of your school or teachers
regarding academic honesty or that would defeat the intent of any quiz, test, assessment, essay, term
paper or other academic assignment
Threats to anyone’s physical or mental well-being
Threats to school or personal property
Stalking behaviors
Harassment of any kind
Explicit sexuality
Explicit or graphic violence
Spam or any other unauthorized/unsolicited or commercial promotion
Disruptions of the server or host software
Impersonations of others’ identities
Use of codes, software, or passwords that may grant unauthorized access to K12 software or third-party
software of any kind
Soliciting passwords or personal identifying information from other users
Content that poses any type of threat to homeland security
Avoid sarcasm, jargon, and slang. Swear words are unacceptable.
Review any correspondence before sending them. Remove easily misinterpreted language and
proofread for typos.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE STANDARDS MAY RESULT IN TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT REMOVAL OF
USER ACCESS TO THE COMMUNITY, AT THE SOLE DISCRETION OF K12 AND MAY ALSO LEAD TO DISCIPLINARY
ACTION BY YOUR SCHOOL OR EXPULSION.
If you feel any member of the community has violated the letter or the spirit of these standards, please email
LVS Administration.
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Monitoring
LVS reserves the right to review any material transmitted using LVS instructional computing resources or
posted to an LVS instructional computing resource to determine the appropriateness of such material. LVS
may review this material at any time, with or without notice. E-mail transmitted via LVS instructional
computing resources is not private and may be monitored.
LVS Indemnification Provision
LVS assumes no responsibility for information obtained via the Internet, which may be illegal, defamatory,
inaccurate or offensive. LVS assumes no responsibility for any claims, losses, damages, costs, or other
obligations arising from the use of instructional computing resources. LVS also denies any responsibility for the
accuracy or quality of the information obtained through user access. Any statement, accessible on the
computer network or the Internet, is understood to be the author’s individual point of view and not that of
LVS, its affiliates, or its employees. LVS assumes no responsibility for damages to the user’s computer system.
Nothing in this policy negates any obligation the student and parent have to use the instructional computing
recourses as required in the Use of Instructional Property Agreement ("Agreement") the parent or guardian
signed as part of the student's enrollment packet. In the event that this Code conflicts with the Agreement,
the terms of the Agreement shall prevail.
Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives parents and students over 18 years of age
(“eligible students”) certain rights regarding the student’s education records. These rights are:
(1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School
receives a request for access. To request an inspection and review, the parent or eligible student should
submit a written request to the Program Director that identifies the record (s) they wish to inspect. The
Program Director makes arrangements for access and notifies the parent or eligible student of the time
and place where the records may be inspected.
(2) The right to request an amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student
believes is inaccurate. Parents or eligible students may ask the School to amend a record that they believe
is inaccurate. They should write the Program Director, clearly identify the part of the record they want
changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by
the parent or eligible student, the School notifies the parent or eligible student of the decision and advises
them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding
the hearing procedures is provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s
education records, except to the extent that FERPA allows disclosure without consent. One exception,
which permits the School to disclose information without consent, is when the School discloses
information to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed
by or contracted to provide services to or designated by the contractor to provide services to the School as
an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law
enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the Board of Directors of the School; a person or
company with whom the School has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor,
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medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a
disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in
order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the School discloses education records
without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
(4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the
School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers
FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Ave., S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
(5) FERPA requires that the School, with certain exceptions, obtain a parent’s or eligible student’s written
consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from a child’s education records.
However, the School may disclose “directory information” without written consent, unless you, the parent
or eligible student, have advised the School in writing that you do not want all or part of the directory
information disclosed. The method for objecting to disclosure of directory information is specified below.
The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the School to include the following information
from education records in certain school publications or disclose it to certain parties. Examples include
shipment of computer and school materials to and from student’s home,
entry of student enrollment information into a computer database for use by school officials,
honor roll or other recognition lists,
sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members, and
school yearbook.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of
privacy if released, can be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. In
addition, federal laws requires the School to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory
information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents or eligible students
have advised the School in writing that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without
prior written consent.
The School has designated the following information as directory information:
name
address
telephone number
e-mail address
photo
athletic information
honor roll status
grade level
activities and clubs
awards
If there are certain items the school has chosen to designate as directory information that you do not want
disclosed from your child’s education records, without your prior written consent, please send an e-mail
identifying the information you do not want disclosed, your student’s name, to
[email protected]; notice of these rights is available, upon request, on audiotape, in
Braille, and in languages other than English. You may contact the Kansas State Department of Education at
(785) 296-3201.
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“I Understand” Statements
The purpose of this “I Understand” section is to set expectations for LVS parents. Students’ success is a
primary goal of LVS that can only be achieved if you, the parent, are successful. To be successful it is
important that parents of LVS children understand, and are in agreement with, the following curricular and
attendance requirements:
I understand and agree that I am required to have access to a computer and Internet access at all times
during my student’s enrollment in the Lawrence Virtual School. I understand that I am responsible for
personal computer repairs.
I understand and agree that my child is responsible for submitting work on time even if we are
experiencing computer difficulties.
I understand and agree that I am enrolling my student in a public charter school and schooling at home
is not homeschooling.
I understand that by submission of this form I am requesting to enroll my student in a public school
with attendance requirements that I am expected to meet. (Attendance Requirements: Grades 9–11 =
1080 hours).
I understand and agree that I must log student attendance daily.
I accept the responsibility to supervise my student in using the LVS curriculum, and I understand that I
am expected to become knowledgeable about it.
I understand and agree that student progress is an expected part of the LVS program in addition to the
hours logged. Teachers review progress and consider other factors, including parental input, when
making student advancement decisions. Promotion is based on progress, not simply attendance.
I understand and agree that I am expected to follow the guidance and support of a professional
teacher in implementing the LVS program with my student.
I understand my student will need to adhere to the academic integrity policy in which plagiarism is
discussed along with consequences for violations. I will read the plagiarism policy with my student(s).
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State Testing
Kansas State Assessments (KITE)
The State of Kansas requires testing of all students in public schools or programs. These tests take place during
a specific time frame designated by the State of Kansas. All students must be available to meet at a regional
location in Kansas during the March-April testing window. In accordance with State law, it is required that
State tests be administered by an LVS proctor.
 As part of enrollment in LVS, it is a general expectation that 10th (ELA/MATH) and 11th graders
(Science/Social Studies) in the High School Academy participate in the Kansas State Assessments (KITE).
 This participation is a requirement to maintain enrollment in our school.
 Travel to the regional location for state testing is the responsibility of the family. The family will be
notified of the dates and time requirement as soon as possible.
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Optimizing the High
School Experience
Course Materials
Students are provided with materials and tools to use with the high school courses. Parents and students are
advised to take care of the materials. Materials are to be returned at the end of the school year (except for
consumable materials and optional materials families purchase on their own). One of the tools that students
will see and use frequently is a web-based Blackboard program. This is a real time interaction that helps
engage students in hands on learning.
Every high school student will be doing virtual labs for their science courses. Throughout the year you will also
be required to provide some of your own materials. It is important that you check the advance prep
information provided in the lessons and by your science teacher(s) so that you are prepared for the labs as
they are scheduled.
Getting Started With the High School Academy at LVS Review once FLVS is clear.
Student and parent usernames and passwords are unique and must not be shared with anyone. You will have
two separate usernames and passwords, one for the mentor and one for the student.
Attending an orientation session is a key to success with the high school program at LVS. Students will be
contacted to schedule their orientations. The orientation will explain to students and families how to access
the curriculum, turn in assignments, check grade reports, and to perform other skills that will help the student
be successful in the online environment. Students should log in daily to all of their courses and complete the
assignments listed on the course’s calendar. It is recommended that students study at least one hour, per
course, per day.
Student Actions to Ensure Success
1. Follow the daily assignments in the announcements section of each course.
2. On the first day of school, make sure you can access all your courses and send/receive E-Mail in “My
Info.”
3. Set up a time with your homeroom teacher for a monthly conference.
4. Log into your courses in the Learning Management System every day and spend 60 minutes in each
class reading and completing the daily assigned coursework.
5. Organize yourself each week by determining what you need to complete for each course and setting
up a plan to complete the assignments by their deadlines. Use the course tools (announcements,
calendar, grade book) to help set up your personal plan.
6. Check your grade book in the Learning Management System and “My Info” so you are aware of your
progress in each course.
7. Log into “My Info” daily to read and respond to e-mail from your teachers and other high school staff.
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8. Attend course Office Hours as often as you can to ask questions, discuss course topics, and reinforce
online learning.
9. Communicate regularly with your teachers and advisor. Ask questions often!
10. Work with your mentor/parent at home: having a cheerleader or a support system at home helps
when the going gets tough!
11. Connect with other students through homeroom, clubs, outings, the online community center, and
other activities. Build a support network!
Creating a Calendar
LVS encourages students to follow course calendars based on each classes’ course syllabus (the course
calendar can be found in the Left Hand Navigation bar and Doc Sharing functions of the LMS). The calendars
are specific to each course and cannot be adjusted to individual paces. To stay on track, students are advised
to check this suggested calendar provided for each class and the course announcements daily.
Time Management
In an online course, time management is critical to success because most activities can be accomplished
asynchronously (this means that the students do not have to be online at the same time as the instructor or
other students). As with any traditional course, there is a risk of receiving a lower grade if a student falls
behind. If your student struggles with time management then he or she should contact their homeroom
teacher for assistance.
A proven way to manage time is to create a schedule of daily activities and stick to it. By incorporating time
management techniques, students can be involved in extracurricular activities and still perform well in school.
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Parent Section
Parent Actions to Help Ensure Student Success
1. Attend an orientation session with a high school instructor for a general overview of the high school
program. These dates and times may be located in the school calendar.
2. Log into the Learning Management System and “My Info” with your child so that you can learn the
systems together.
3. Help your student organize and prepare for this virtual setting. Arrange a designated an area where
the student has space to work. Also make sure that the computer and scanner/printer/fax machine
are all in good working order. Help your student create a personal calendar each week to ensure that
he or she has a plan to complete those weekly assignments. Monitor each week the student’s
organization plan until your student has his or her routine in working order and is experiencing
academic success.
4. Log into the family “My Info” each day to read Kmail in the Communication Center. Your username
and password for My Info are the same as your online school username and password.
5. While in the family “My Info” account, check your student’s progress in each course. Pay attention to
the assignments due that week, any past due assignments, user activity and the course grade to date.
6. To gather more information concerning your student’s academic progress, log into the Learning
Management System to view your student’s completed work, read the teacher’s feedback, and check
for upcoming assessments.
7. Log student attendance each day in the Online School. Don’t forget to include time spent off line that
entails academics, such as reading a novel, visiting a museum, or watching a history documentary.
(These are just a few examples)
8. Encourage your student to stay in regular communication with his or her teachers and advisors and to
attend content office hours and review sessions as often as possible.
9. Schedule a proactive conference with your student’s teachers and advisor at least once a semester, or
more frequently if necessary, to set goals and to monitor your child’s success.
10. Take advantage of parent trainings, meetings, and informative sessions.
Checking Student Progress
There are tools within the Learning Management System environment that allow parent/mentors and
students to quickly check student’s work, determine missing assignments, view midterm and final deadlines
and grades, and access cumulative reports. Directions for accessing the report information is provided in the
“Learning Online Course” assigned to each student.
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Complaint Response Procedure
The Lawrence Virtual School is dedicated to establishing student/family satisfaction. The following procedure
is in place to ensure that designated employees address student/family grievances in a timely manner. LVS
prohibits discrimination against students/families on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, gender, national
origin, orientation, or religion.
The student and parent(s), custodian(s) or legal guardian(s), must address in writing any concern or grievance
to the LVS Administration. The Administrator shall respond within 5 working days.
If the concern or grievance is not resolved by the LVS Administration, the parent(s), custodian(s) or legal
guardian(s) may, within 5 working days of the LVS Administration’s response, request in writing a meeting (via
phone or in person) with the LVS Administration to discuss the concern or grievance. He/she shall investigate
and respond within 5 working days.
If the family’s concern is not resolved at the meeting with the LVS Administration, the family may file a
complaint with the Superintendent of USD 497. The Superintendent may address the complaint directly, or
the family may file a complaint with the State Board for Charter Schools. LVS has 30 days to respond in writing
to a formal complaint filed with the State Board for Charter Schools.
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Special Programs
Special Education
Special education services are available to students identified with a disability by a multi-disciplinary team. A
multi-disciplinary team consists of teachers, the parent/guardian and oftentimes a school psychologist,
therapist and the student. LVS follows the requirements of IDEA 2004 and the laws of Kansas. Documentation
of the disability must be provided such as medical records, prior educational records and/or a psychological
evaluation. For new referrals LVS uses a Child Study Team (CST) school-wide as a first level support to assist in
the identification of educational needs, and to document the student is unable to learn with scientificallybased interventions.
Students in need of adapted learning support services are those whose complex learning needs impact their
academic achievement and their ability to make sufficient progress in the general education setting. Services
offered may include: adaptations and modifications to the general education curriculum, specialized
instructional strategies, and adjustments in pacing. The program is considered an inclusion program. The
student’s home is the regular classroom. Services are provided by consultation with a highly qualified special
education teacher via phone, k-mail and the ClassConnect online classroom.
What to expect:
Every special education student will be assigned a special education teacher in addition to his or
her regular course teachers. The learning coach/parent or guardian and student are expected to
meet weekly with the special education teacher in the ClassConnect online classroom and by
conference call.
The special education teacher provides the learning coach/parent or guardian assistance to modify
and adapt the learning environment as well as curriculum paths for success.
The special education teacher provides direct instruction to the student in the ClassConnect online
classroom every week.
The special education teacher, the regular education teacher, and the learning coach/parent or
guardian will meet together for a 3-way conference by phone or ClassConnect online session a
minimum of once a semester.
The special education teacher is available as a resource for instructional strategies, adaptations and
modifications to the curriculum.
The special education teacher will provide a progress report at the end of each semester, noting
the progress on the student’s IEP goals.
Special Education students are required to meet the same attendance policies as their peers. The
home environment, one-on-one instruction, and flexible schedule create a learning environment
which meets the student’s specific needs.
The student’s learning coach is expected to keep records that assist in determining the student’s
progress towards IEP goals.
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2015-2016 Handbook High School Signature Page
Dear Parents and Students:
You have just reviewed the Lawrence Virtual School High School Academy Handbook. We have attempted to
cover all the important rules, regulations, and procedures for which you are responsible during this school
year. Remember that your success at LVS is equal to your effort and desire. Please sign and return the bottom
section of this page with your enrollment documentation.
The policies set forth in this handbook are subject to change by the USD 497 Board of Education. Any changes
in policy will be communicated to both parents and students so that you will be aware of them.
We have read and reviewed the Lawrence Virtual High School Handbook including the “I understand”
statements and FERPA guidelines. In signing, we indicate an awareness and understanding of the school
practices and procedures set forth herein.
Student’s Signature: __________________________________________ Date: ______________
Student’s Printed Name: _________________________________________________________________
Parent’s Signature: ______________________________________
Date: ________________
Parent’s Printed Name: __________________________________________________________________
Please sign and return to:
Lawrence Virtual School
1104 E. 1000 Road
Lawrence, KS 66047
Or fax to (785) 832-5621
Or sign, scan, and email to [email protected]
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