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Parent & Student Handbook

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List of rules/uidelines for Horizon Academy in alphabetical order.

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Page 1: School's Handbook

Parent & StudentHandbook

Page 2: School's Handbook

PURPOSE AND USE OF HANDBOOK This handbook exists to foster the efficient operation of Horizon Academy. To meet this objective, the school’s administration is given flexibility and the ability to exercise discretion in appropriate circumstances. The principal has discretion to take action on circumstances other than those specified in the handbook. This handbook is not intended and should not be considered to create any additional rights for students and/or parents/guardians.

AMENDMENTS TO HANDBOOK This handbook is subject to change at any time when determined to be necessary by the board or administration of Horizon Academy.

OUR HISTORY Horizon Academy was born out of a passion for education, a love for children, and an aspiration for excellence from a core group of parents and educators who believe that every child should be given the opportunity to meet and exceed his or her true potential. The efforts have been focused and consistent, the faith and the vision unwavering. The result is truly the product of synergy. Horizon Academy is proof that dedication and hard work can indeed make dreams a reality.

OUR CREED •WebelieveinthepowerofourGod,thesourceofallandthereasonforall. •Webelieveincelebrating,living,andsharingourcorevalues. •Webelieveinthepowerofeducationandtheprocessoflearning. •Westrivetocreateachallengingandnurturingenvironmentofactiveandinteractive learners.Werespecttheclassroomasaplacewherewecantakerisks,discoverour talents, and share them with others. •Webelieveinteachingtotheheart,mind,andsoulofeachchild.

OUR MISSION To provide a challenging international education, from kindergarten to high school, in a progressive environment which focuses on the development of the whole child in preparation for national and global citizenship

OUR CORE VALUES •AccountabilityandResponsibility •AppreciationforDiverseCultures •ProgressiveWorkEthics •Civility •Excellence •HealthyLiving •RespectfortheEnvironment •Honesty • Independence • IndividualIntegrity

Page 3: School's Handbook

OUR PROMISEWewill: •provideahappy,safestudent-centeredenvironment. •haveastrong,involvedcommunityofparents,teachers,andstudentsinteractingdaily with each other. • encourageandengenderexcellenceinacademicsbymeetingandgoingbeyondnational benchmarks. •haveacomprehensiveLanguageArtsprogramwithabuilt-inreadingcomponent which will introduce students to quality children’s literature. •buildcharacteranddevelopthespiritualdimensionbyteachingCharacterEducation alongwithReligionandinvolvingstudentsincommunityoutreachprograms. • supporttheuseoftechnologyineachclassroom. • implementatwo-partPhysicalEducationProgrambasedonfitnessandathletics. • teachcoursesinStudySkills,OrganizationSkills,andTest-takingSkills. • activelyinvolvestudentsintheschool’sdecisionto“GoGreen”andintheschool’s organic garden. • executeanelectiveprogramthatwillhighlightanddevelopindividualinterestsand talents.

Page 4: School's Handbook

AbouttheHandbook;PurposeandUseAmendmentsOurHistory;OurCreedOurMission;OurCoreValuesOurPromiseTableofContentsAdmissionsPolicyAttendance BehaviourExpectations/Discipline/Bullying/Harassment Birthdays CareofSchoolPropertyCheatingClosingofSchoolinInclementWeatherCommunicationConferencesConfidentialityCurriculumCustodyandGuardianshipDifferentiationDismissalPoliciesDressforLearningEmergencyProtocolsExpulsionExtracurricularActivitiesFeesField TripsForbiddenItemsFundraisingGoingGreenGradeLevelPromotion/Retention/AccelerationGuidanceServicesHealthIssuesHelpingStudentsSucceedHomework

LibraryLostandFoundLunchandSnackProgramMakingUpWorkMoneyOrderoftheDayParentsasPartnersPartiesProgressReportsProblemSolvingRoomQuestionsRegistrationofNewStudentsRelatedArtsReportCardsSchoolBooksSchoolCommitteesSpecialEducationServicesStudyHabitsSummerProgramsSummerReadingandMathSuppliesSuspensionTardiness/ TruancyTelephoneUseTestingTransportationChangesVisitorsVolunteersWebsiteWishListYouYoungerSiblingsZZZZZZZ

Table of Contents

Page 5: School's Handbook

PLACING NEW STEPS OF CHANGE 1

POLICIES AND SCHOOL REGULATIONS

ADMISSIONS POLICY AdmissionsPolicy:HorizonAcademyhasanon-discriminatorypolicywhichadmitsstudentsofanyrace,colour,nationality, and/or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities which are available to stu-dents at the Academy.

General Admission Requirements •Baptismalcertificate,ifapplicable • Immunizationrecords • Student’smostrecentreportcard,ifapplicable •Proofofcustodyforstudentsnotlivingwitheitherorbothbiologicalparents

Age Requirements • Studentsmusthavereachedtheageof3bySeptember30inordertobeeligible forthePre-Kinderprogram. • Studentsmusthavereachedtheageof4bySeptember30inordertobeeligiblefor theKindergartenprogram. • Studentsmusthavereachedtheageof5bySeptember30inordertobeeligibleforInfant1.

Readinesstesting,atthediscretionofschooladministration,maybeusedtodetermineappropriateclassplacement. The administration reserves the right to place students in a class which is consistent with the results of admission testing and/or the prior academic records of the student.ProspectivestudentswhodonotspeakEnglisharestronglyencouragedtoattendESLclassesbeforeandduring enrolment at the Academy until they achieve functional fluency.

ATTENDANCESchoolattendanceisofgreatimportance.Astudentwillbemoresuccessful,academicallyandsociallywhenheorsheregularlyattendsclasses.Onthedaythestudentreturnstoschoolfrombeingabsent,heorshemusthaveanotefromhisorherparentsexplainingthereasonfortheabsence.Parentsmayalsocalltheschooltoreport the reason for the absence.

THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION REQUIRES THAT ALL STUDENTS ATTEND SCHOOL.

Page 6: School's Handbook

HORIZON ACADEMY PARENT & STUDENT HANDBOOK2

BEHAVIOUR EXPECTATIONS/DISCIPLINE/BULLYING/HARASSMENTInordertoformproperhabitsandgoodattitudes,thefollowing5behavioralexpectationsareconstantlyemphasizedineveryclassroomandeveryareaoftheschoolcompoundaspartofHorizon’sCharacterBeesProgram:

•BeThereBeReady • BeResponsible •BeRespectful • BeThoughtful •BeAttentiveEachstudentisgivenaPassporttotheHiveatthestartoftheacademicyear.ThisdocumentisadescriptionoftheCharacterBeesprogramaswellasalistingofHorizon’srulesorexpectationsofbehaviourandoftherewardswhichstudentsareabletoworktowardsastheycollecttheirbees.Itactsasaphysicalremindertoparents and students of the way Horizon students are expected to behave. Horizon Academy believes strongly inthebenefitsofpositivereinforcementandconsidersthese5behaviouralexpectationstobethecodeofconduct by which every student should live.

Followingisalistingofspecificexpectationsforthedifferentareasoftheschool.

Classroom 1.BeThereBeReady Have your materials ready for your teacher. Gettoclassontime. 2.BeResponsible Completeallassignedtasks. Keepyourareaneatandclean. 3.BeRespectful Mindyourmanners. Speaknicelyandusekindwords. 4.BeThoughtful Keepwallsandschoolfurnitureclean. Nohitting,fighting,orroughplaying. 5.BeAttentive Always listen to your teachers. EarnyourBees.

Cafeteria 1.BeThereBeReady Be on time and seated for snacks and lunch. Washhandsbeforeandaftermeals. 2.BeResponsible Sitquietlyandeat. Cleanupafteryourself. 3.BeRespectful Eatwhat’sonyourplate. Mindyourmanners. 4.BeThoughtful Sitproperlyaroundthetable. 5.BeAttentive Walkinaline. Waityourturn.

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PLACING NEW STEPS OF CHANGE 3

Hallway/Library 1.BeThereBeReady Have your materials ready. 2.BeResponsible Take care of books and return them on time. Walkthroughthehallway. 3.BeRespectful Be quiet in the library. Be quiet in the hallway. 4.BeThoughtful Keepwallsandlibraryfurnitureclean. 5.BeAttentive Listentotheteachers.

Playground 1.BeThereBeReady 2.BeResponsible Take care of playground equipment. Useplaygroundequipmentproperly. 3.BeRespectful Take turns. Practicegoodsportsmanship. 4.BeThoughtful Protectplantsandhedges. Playnicely. 5.BeAttentive Respectthebells. Form lines quietly.

Garden 1.BeThereBeReady Have your materials ready. Gettoclassontime. 2.BeResponsible Completeallassignedtasks. Cleanupafteryourself. 3.BeRespectful Stayinyourassignedarea. Nurturethenaturalenvironment. 4.BeThoughtful Useequipmentonlyasdirected. Harvest only under teacher supervision. 5.BeAttentive Listentotheteacher. Respectthebells.

Common Areas 1.BeThereBeReady 2.BeResponsible HaveaHallwayPass. Walkcarefullyupanddownstairs. 3.BeRespectful Knockbeforeenteringaroom. Mindyourmanners. 4.BeThoughtful. Protectartworkinstairwell. Practicesafety. 5.BeAttentive Follow the rules. Listentotheteachers.

Page 8: School's Handbook

HORIZON ACADEMY PARENT & STUDENT HANDBOOK4

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOURS Behaviors that are considered totally unacceptable are

•AcademicDishonesty(copyinganotherstudent’swork,plagiarism,cheating) •BullyingBehaviours(seebelow) •Continuedfailuretoobservetheuniformcode •Disrespectfulconductorattitudetowardsateacher,administrator,oranyschoolstaffmember •Disruptivebehaviour(inappropriateinterruptionwhileothersarespeaking,passingnotes duringclass,etc.) •Drugoralcoholuse/abuse •Fighting • Forgeryofparent/guardiansignature •Foullanguage,gesturesoractions •Gumchewinginschoolduringschoolhours •Harassmentoffellowstudents •Lackofadherencetoadultdirectionsandrequests •LackofadherencetotheCharacterBeescode •Leavingschoolgroundswithoutpermission •Loiteringinbathroomsorhallways •Misuseofschoolpropertyorthepropertyofothers •Runningintheschoolbuilding • Stealing •Tamperingwithschoolcomputers •Threatsofanykind(verbal,written,drawn,inferred) •Vandalism(carvinginthefurniture,defacingschoolproperty,writingonthewalls,destroyingbathroom facilities,etc.)Pleasenotethatparentswillbeheldlegallyandfinanciallyresponsible.

PROCEDURESHorizon’s view is that students thrive on positive recognition and praise. Horizon Academy works hard to createanenvironmentoffriendshipandrespect.Childrenaretaughtthatlifeisaboutchoicesandtheyareexpectedtomakeappropriatechoices.Whenproblemsarise,theywillbedealtwithnaturallyandlogically.

Becauseofthewide-rangeofpossibleinfractionsandtheindividualseriousnesstherein,threestagesofprocedural response are outlined below. As always, the Administration reserves the right to determine the most appropriate response.

Stage One – Minor Offenses1.InfractionsofCharacterBeeswillbeinitiallyrespondedtobytheteacherwithageneralreminderoftheCharacterBeeexpectationbeingignored.2.IfthechildcontinuestoignoretheCharacterBeerule,amoredirectreminderisgiventothechild.3.IftheCharacterBeeisignoredathirdtime,thechildisthensenttotheProblemSolvingRoom(seebelow).

Stage Two – More Serious OffensesIncaseofmoreseriousoffenses,thechildissentimmediatelytotheProblemSolvingRoom,.Theincidentisdocumentedbyboththeadultcounsellor(orProblemSolver)intheroomandthestudentorstudentsinvolved,andacopyofthestudent’sreportissenthometobesignedbyaparentorguardian.Reportingand

Page 9: School's Handbook

PLACING NEW STEPS OF CHANGE 5

consequencescontinueiftheseriousoffensescontinue,throughthreestages.AtStage3,afterathirdseriousincident,aBehaviouralActionPlanisagreeduponandtheparentsarecalledforaninterviewtodiscusstheplanofactionagreeduponbythestudentandtheProblemSolver.

Simplystated,Horizon’sgeneralstyleofdisciplinefocuseson(1)identifyingtheconflict;(2)talkingitthroughwiththechildorchildreninvolved;and(3)helpingthechildrenmakebetterfuturedecisions.Forthemostpart,this model is effective and conflicts can be resolved in a timely and effective manner, often with intervention of the teacher.

Stage Three – BullyingBullying is a widespread problem in many schools and communities. The behaviour encompasses physical aggression, threats, teasing, harassment and exclusion. Horizon Academy will not tolerate bullying behaviour. Threatsofanykindwillbedealtwithimmediately.Weexpectallstudentstoassistinoureffortstoidentifyandeliminate bullying behaviour from our classrooms, playground, lunchroom, bathrooms and hallways by reporting incidencestoteachersand/oradministrators.Throughactivities,speakersandanti-bullyinglessons,studentswillbetaughtwaysinwhichtheycanhelpcreateananti-bullyingclimateatHorizon.

DEFINITION OF BULLYINGA bully is someone who repeatedly and intentionally directs physical, verbal or psychological aggression or harassment toward others, with the goal of gaining power over or dominating another individual. Bullying is repeated and deliberate negative behaviour, direct or indirect, towards another person who ultimately becomes a target.

Someexamplesofbullyingbehaviourinclude,butarenotlimitedto Namecalling Physicalaggression Spreadingrumours Unwantedtouch Ridiculing Mocking Threatening(seriousorinjest) Intimidating Teasing Excluding Playingadirtytrick DegradingLanguageBullyingisindicativeofabehaviouralproblem.Becausebullyingcanhavealife-longnegativeeffectonthetargetof bullying, both the parent and the school response should be quick, clear and geared towards providing security for the victim and educating the bully on the impact of his/her behaviour.

OncetheAdministrationhasdeterminedthatabullyingsituationexists,thefollowingstepswillbetaken:

•ThestudentinvolvedwillbereferredtotheProblemSolvingRoom,wherestandardPSRprocedureswill takeplace.Dependingontheseverityoftheincident,reportingmaybeginatanyofthethreePSRStages. •Theschooladministrationwillmeetseparatelywiththechildbeingaccusedofbullying,thechildbeing bullied, and anyone else involved. •Theadministrationwilleducatethestudentsonproperbehaviourandestablishpositivestepstowards resolution. •Theadministrationwillnotifythechildren’sparentsanddiscusstheincident. •Consequencesbasedontheseverityoftheincidentmayrangefromverbalreprimand,detention,lossof schoolprivileges,oradditionalassignmentstoanin-schoolorout-of-schoolsuspension,orexpulsion.TheAdministrationreservestherighttoimplementtheappropriateconsequence.Mostincidentswillbehandledaccordingtothefollowingguidelines:

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HORIZON ACADEMY PARENT & STUDENT HANDBOOK6

Incident #1 In-SchoolSupervisedDetention(thechildisremovedfromtheclassasdeterminedbytheadministration.)

Incident #2 In-SchoolSupervisedDetentionalongwithanindividualBehaviouralContract,whichwillbedraftedand signed by student and parents.

Incident #3 OneDayIn-SchoolSuspension

Incident #4 TwoDayOut-of-SchoolSuspension

The student may be excluded from the school in the event of a very serious disciplinary incident or if repeated attemptstochangenegativebehaviourshavefailed.Duringthisprocess,theprincipalwillmeetwiththestudent and parents/guardians.

BIRTHDAYSA birthday child will be invited to celebrate his or her birthday during snack time with any goodies they choose tobringinthatday,asplannedinadvancewiththeteacher.Ontheirspecialday,thecelebratingstudentswill be recognized with a birthday badge or crown. The child’s birthday will be mentioned during morning announcements or assembly.

BIRTHDAY BOOK CLUBAspartoftheschool’semphasisonthevalueofliteracy,HorizonAcademyrunsaBirthdayBookClub.Webelieve that making a book donation to the library as part of a child’s birthday celebration sends a strong messageabouttheimportanceofreading.Inaddition,thisprogramsupplementsthelibrarywhileitallowstheschool to be able to purchase extra books, videos or audio tapes. Family and friends of students can participate intheprograminoneoftwoways:

1)Nearthedateofyourchild’sbirthday,libraryvolunteerswillsendoutacopyofHorizon’scurrentwishlist.Youcanindicateyourchoiceontheformandsenditbackwithyourcheckinthereturnenvelope.Ifyou would like to donate a book not named on the list, please check with the library volunteers to avoid duplications. A bookplate with the name of the birthday child will be placed in each book and the child will be notified when the book is available.

2)Donationscanbesetupanonymouslyorasaremembranceforalovedoneorasagiftinthenameofateacherorfamilymemberforbirthdaysorholidays.Pleasecontactthelibraryvolunteersortheofficeforfurther information.

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTYHorizon Academy has made every effort to provide students with the material and furniture that they need inordertohaveanattractiveandresponsivelearningenvironment.Studentsareexpectedtorespectthiscommunity property in order to ensure that it will remain useful for years to come.

Any defacement to or destruction of school property will not be tolerated and parents will be held liable for the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged items.

Page 11: School's Handbook

PLACING NEW STEPS OF CHANGE 7

CHEATINGHorizonAcademyhasanotolerancepolicyoncheating.NoactionwillbetakenagainstPre-KandKindergartenstudents.

Actions taken against Infant 1 and Infant 2 students are as follows: • StudentwillbesenttotheProblemSolvingRoom,whereacontractwillbedrawnup. • Studentwillberetestedonthesamedayduringabreak. •Parentswillbeinformedoftheincident

Actions taken against Stds. 1, 2 and 3 students are as follows:First Offense: • StudentwillbesenttotheProblemSolvingRoom,whereacontractwillbedrawnup. • Studentwillberetestedonthesamedayduringabreak,withastartinggradeof90%. •Parentswillbeinformedoftheincident.

Second Offense: • StudentwillbesenttotheProblemSolvingRoom,wheretheircontractwillbereviewed. • Studentwillberetestedonthesamedayduringabreak,withastartinggradeof90%. •ParentswillbecalledinforaParent,Teacher,ChildConference.

Actions taken against Stds. 4, 5, and 6 students are as follows:First Offense: • StudentwillbesenttotheProblemSolvingRoom,whereacontractwillbedrawnup. • Studentwillberetestedonthesamedayduringabreak,withastartinggradeof80%. •Parentswillbeinformedoftheincident.

Second Offense: • StudentwillbesenttotheProblemSolvingRoom,wherethecontractwillbereviewed. • Studentwillberetestedonthesamedayduringabreak,withastartinggradeof80%. • Studentwillberequired to write a letter of apology to the teacher and an essay on why cheating is wrong. •ParentswillbecalledinforaParent,Teacher,ChildConference.Iftheoffenseisrepeatedathirdtime,administrationwillbecomemoredeeplyinvolved.

CLOSING OF SCHOOL IN INCLEMENT WEATHERHorizonAcademywillfollowtheMinistryofEducation’sdirectivesoncancellationsanddelays.TheAcademy,however, reserves the right to make decisions concerning additional postponements and/or cancellations of classes.

WatchanyofthemajortelevisionstationsorlistentoradiostationLoveFMfornewsonschoolcancellationsand delays. You can also check the school website for updates.

Page 12: School's Handbook

HORIZON ACADEMY PARENT & STUDENT HANDBOOK8

COMMUNICATIONClearandfrequentcommunicationbetweenschoolandhomeisessential.Weareconstantlystrivingtoimproveourmethodstomaintaineffectivecommunication.Weekly,monthlyandyearlycommunicationshelpparents to plan ahead and to be informed of current happenings. The following methods of communication are employedatHorizontohelptoensureaneffectiveHomeandSchoolconnection:

Monthly e-NewsletterAtthestartofeachmonth,anupdatednewsletterwillbee-mailedtoeachfamilyandpostedontheschool’swebsite(www.horizonacademy.edu.bz).EachissueofOn the Horizon contains important information from the principal, details about upcoming events and meetings, and classroom news. Those who do not have access to email or the internet may request a hard copy to be sent home with their child.

Daily PlannerEachHorizonstudenthasadailyplannerwhichisavitalpartoftheacademicandcommunicationprocessat Horizon. The planner is more than a record of daily assignments; it is also a medium for communication betweenparentsandteachersonadailybasis.Parentsareencouragedtoutilizetheplannertokeepintouchwith their children’s teachers.

Information FolderWhennecessary,printedcommunicationfromtheschoolwillarrivehomeinanspecialfolder.Parentsareasked to review the contents of the folder and return all requested paper work in the same folder on the following school day. All confidential written correspondence with teachers should be delivered in a sealed envelope with the teacher’s name.

School WebsiteThe school website serves two main purposes. First, it provides an overview of the every aspect of the school forthoseinterestedinlearningmoreaboutHorizonAcademy.Second,itofferscurrentupdatesforpeopleinterestedintheday-to-dayhappeningsatourschool.Visitusonlineatwww.horizonacademy.edu.bz.

CONFERENCESHorizonAcademyhostsoneparent/teacherconferenceperterm.Classroomteachers,however,mayrequestadditional conferences throughout the year if necessary.

CONFIDENTIALITYThesafetyandwell-beingofallstudentsisHorizon’snumberonepriority.Anyobservationsorconversationsmade while in the school setting should not be discussed in or out of school with anyone other than the class teacher and/or the principal.

CURRICULUMHorizonAcademyisdistinguishedbyitsuniquecurriculum,whichincorporatestheNationalCurriculumof Belize and strives to provide a challenging international education from kindergarten to high school, in a progressive learning environment. The curriculum is designed to provide instruction not only in human knowledge and skills but also in character education, core values, and life. Based on the belief that children learn best by making connections and tapping into the multiple intelligences, our curriculum incorporates and is enhanced by the integration of technology and the exposure to cultural and global enrichment.

Page 13: School's Handbook

PLACING NEW STEPS OF CHANGE 9

Asinstructionalleader,thePrincipalmustdetermineawellbalancedcurricularprogramwhichfocusesonthedevelopmentofthewholechildinpreparationfornationalandglobalcitizenship.Itistheteachers’responsibility to provide integration through the use of materials and their own knowledge and ability.

CURRICULUM OVERVIEWLanguage ArtsHorizonAcademy’sLanguageArtsprogramisaprogressiveversionoftheclassicIntegratedapproachtotheteachingofLanguageArts.ItincludesReading,Comprehension,Grammar,Spelling,Phonics,andWriting,alltaughtasindividualsubjectsundertheencompassingblockofthedailyLanguageArtsperiod.Becausewerecognizetheimportanceofreading,theLanguageArtsprogramalsohasaseparatereadingcomponentdesigned to first build and then enhance and strengthen each child’s reading and comprehension skills while inspiring in them a love of literature. The underlying goal is to help children develop fluency in and facility with thespeaking,reading,andwritingofEnglish.

MathHorizon’sMathprogramisawell-structuredandtrulystudent-centredoneinwhichstudentsaregivenanopportunitytodirecttheprogressoftheclass.Studentsarechallengedtothinkandtodevelopreasoningskills, and they are able to master problem solving techniques and core mathematical applications in a fun atmosphere.TheHorizonMathstudentseesMathasbothpracticalandenjoyable.

Social StudiesTheHorizonSocialStudiesprogramfollowstheNationalCurriculum,movingstudentsfromachild-centredrecognition of their world to a broader awareness of their family, their community, their country, and the world.TheNationalCurriculumincludesthestudyofBelizeandhighlightsourAfricanandMayaheritage.Ourschool curriculum broadens the scope and starts students on the road toward being true global citizens by also teaching them about other major regions and cultures of the world.

ScienceScienceatHorizonAcademyepitomizesaholisticapproachtolearningaboutlifeandallthingsthataffectit.DividedintothetwomainareasofGeneralScienceandHealth,thisprogramintegrateshealthylifestylesandscientificprocesses.Studentsgethands-onexperiencesthatallowthemtodiscoverandapplynewconcepts.HorizonSciencestudentsexploreallaspectsofScience,fromweathertobodyprocesses.Theylearntoappreciate the value of practical learning through supervised, memorable experiences.

SpanishIncompliancewithBelize’sLanguagePolicyandEducationGoal#12,whichstatesthatstudentsshouldacquirefunctionalskillsintheSpanishlanguagebytheendofprimaryschool,HorizonAcademyincludestheteachingofSpanishfromInfant1upwards.ThecourseisdesignedtoenableeachstudenttobefunctionallyliteratebyplacingemphasisonconversationalSpanishandbyincludingavarietyofchildren’sbookseitherwrittenortranslatedintoSpanishtogetchildrenusedtolisteningandspeaking,readingandwritingSpanish.

Information TechnologyHorizon Academy realizes and respects the importance of technology and its role in progressive education and hasdecidedtointegratetechnologyintoallsubjectsatalllevels.Doingsowillutilizethelevelofcomputerliteracy that students as young as four years old come to school with and develop the skills they will need for higherlevelapplication.StructuredclassesinITarealsogiven.

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HORIZON ACADEMY PARENT & STUDENT HANDBOOK10

Character DevelopmentHorizon Academy’s creed states the commitment to teach to the heart and soul of each child, and so the Academy has developed a unique plan of action which effectively blends character education and religion. As a multi-denominationalschool,HorizonfocusesontheteachingofcharacterandvirtuesthroughtheuseofBiblestories,songs,readingsandcommonprayer.CharacterdevelopmentisemphasizeddailybyHorizon’spositiveapproachtodisciplineanditsCharacterBeesprogram.Theupperdivisionstudentsarealsointroducedtoreligions of the world and their beliefs and practices.

Organic GardeningTounderscoreoneofHorizonAcademy’scorevalues,RespectfortheEnvironment,andtoincludethemanyfacetsofthiscorevalue,acompletecurriculuminOrganicGardeninghasbeenincludedforalllevels.Enrichedwithmanycross-curricularlinks,thiscoursetakesthestudentsfromabasicunderstandingofthewondersof plant life to a broad respect for the earth and the virtues of healthy living and on to an awareness of entrepreneurial skills and opportunities.

Physical EducationInkeepingwithtrueholisticdevelopment,aschoolneedstoblendefficientlybothphysicalandacademicactivities.HorizonAcademyofferstwoPEclasseseveryweek,oneforfitnessandtheotherforthedevelopment of skills in a particular sporting discipline. Fitness classes include not only exercises that will develop, mold, and tone young bodies but also lessons in aerobics and dance, yoga and stretching. The various sports include the standard disciplines like football, volleyball, basketball, and track and field.

Art ProgramHorizonAcademy’sartprogramisinnovativeandexciting.Itchallengesstudents’creativitythroughartandprovidesasolidvisualartsfoundationthroughitscomprehensiveartlessons.Thisstandard-basedarteducation program teaches students to critique, compare and contrast, and analyze and positively discuss their ownartwork.Gradesaredeterminednotbyartisticabilitybutbyapplicationofthelearningprocessandthe technique being taught. To enhance the creativity of students even more, the program is also linked with LanguageArtsthroughcross-curricularactivities.

Music ProgramHorizonAcademyrecognizesthemanyfacetsoflearningwhichareintegraltothemake-upofstudentsandsohasdevelopedamusicprogramwhichteachesthemtocelebratethejoysofmusic.Studentslearndifferentelements of music as well as songs from around the world and from different periods and genres. They are also introduced to instruments from all the instrument families and have the opportunity to move on to deeper instructioninaparticularinstrument.Musicalactivitiesfocusonpersonal,social,andemotionaldevelopmentso that students learn more about themselves while they learn about music.

Expressive Arts and SportsHorizon Academy is committed to developing students’ individual interests and talents by allowing them the opportunitytochooseadditionalmusic,arts,andsportsclassesthatappealtothem.ThisExpressiveArtsandSportsProgramhasgrownoutofstudents’responsestoquestionsaskedontheregistrationform.Thecoursesoffered are those they have identified and expressed interest in – some traditional and some new. They include areas like basketball and football, swimming and archery, guitar and keyboarding, cooking and arts and crafts and dance,andtheywillbetaughtin40minuteblocks,threetimesweekly.Experienceslikethishelptocompletethe holistic learning experience at Horizon.

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PLACING NEW STEPS OF CHANGE 11

CUSTODY AND GUARDIANSHIPHorizon Academy’s registration form asks parents to supply relevant information for regular and emergency contacts.Ifanychangesincustodyorguardianshipshouldoccur,pleasenotifytheoffice.

DIFFERENTIATIONBecause each student enters Horizon Academy with different abilities, learning styles, prior knowledge and experiences,werealizethatourindividualclassesmayrequiredifferentlevelsofinstruction.ItisHorizon’schallenge to assist each child in attaining academic excellence at his or her highest level.

Withinthecontextofoneclassroom,therefore,somestudentsmaybelearningconceptsdifferentlyfromothers. By working to ensure that differentiation occurs in each classroom, we strive to meet the individual academic needs of each child.

DISMISSALDailydismissalisat3:00p.m.Studentsshouldbepickedupoutsidethemainentranceoftheschool.Teachersremainondismissaldutywithstudentstohelptheprocesstomoveefficientlyuntil3:15.After3:15,studentsreportforAfterCare.Parentsneedtoparkandcomeintopickustheirchildren,andtheywillbechargedtheregular hourly rate.

Early Dismissal Ifyourchildneedstoleaveschoolbeforetheregulardismissaltime,youmustgototheofficetosignhim/herout. The secretary will call your child to meet you in the office. All early dismissals are counted as tardies.

Changes In Pick Up PlanPleasenotifytheofficeofanychangesinregularpickuparrangementsforyourchild.

DRESS FOR LEARNINGStudentsofHorizonAcademywearafulldressuniformofayellowbuttondownshirtwithaburgundytieand khaki shorts or pants for boys and skorts or pants for girls. Brown shoes and a brown belt complete the uniform.TheP.E.uniformincludesawhiteHorizont-shirtwithgreenshortsandtennisshoes.

Theuniformisareflectionoftheschool’sphilosophyandaspirations.Parentsareaskedtoensurethatstudentscometoschoolneatandcleanandinfulluniform.Extremehair-dos,excessivejewelry,make-up,nailpolish,andtattoos do not fit the Horizon concept of being dressed for learning, and so are not allowed.

EMERGENCY PROTOCOLSEmergency CardsEmergencycardsaresenthomeatthebeginningoftheschoolyearsothatparentsmayindicatewhattelephone numbers are to be used for them at work or at home in case of an illness or injury to a child. Parentsarealsoaskedtodesignateaneighbourorrelativewhocanberesponsiblefortheirchildintheeventthat neither parent can be located at home or at work.

Two emergency cards are completed at the beginning of each school year, one coloured card for the main officeandonewhitecardfortheProblemSolvingRoom.

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HORIZON ACADEMY PARENT & STUDENT HANDBOOK12

Emergency Evacuation Of SchoolIntheeventthattheschoolmustbeevacuatedforsafetyreasons,bombscares,fire,oranyotheremergencies,students will be directed to a safe area. Following instructions from the office, room mothers will begin a telephonechaintonotifyparentsoftheearlyreleaseoftheirchildren.Itisnecessary,therefore,thatadequateinformation be on file on the emergency cards.

EXPULSIONConductwhichconstitutesgoodcauseforsuspensionofexpulsionofastudentincludes,butisnotlimitedtothefollowing:

•Continuedandwillfuldisobedience •Opendefiancetoanyteacher,administrator,oranystaff •Physicalattackonanystudent,teacher,administratororanyotherstaff •Takingorattemptingtotakepersonalpropertyormoneybymeansofforce,fear,orotherwise •Willfullycausingorattemptingtocausedamagetoschoolproperty •Truancybyastudent •Defacingschoolproperty • Smokingand/ordrinkingonschoolgroundsExpulsionisemployedonlywhenallothermeansofdiscipline,includingsuspension,havebeenusedandprovenineffective.If,however,inthesoledeterminationoftheschool,astudent’sconductoractivityreflectssuchgrave discredit to the school, or otherwise presents a definite impediment to the welfare and progress of the school’s community, the student can be expelled without the school’s having taken any prior disciplinary measures.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIESThe curriculum at Horizon Academy is carefully designed to ensure that the school day blends academic, physical, and artistic education. To accommodate other interests, extracurricular clubs take place after schoolhours.Parentsareinformedoftheschedulesoftheseclubssothattheymaymakealternatepickuparrangements if their child chooses to participate.

FEESSchoolfeesatHorizonAcademyincludeanannualRegistrationandActivityfeeandmonthlytuitionfor12months.Parentsarealsoexpectedtopayforuniforms,books,andsupplieswhichwillbeorderedbytheschool.

FIELD TRIPSEducationalfieldtripsareencouraged.Theprincipal,incollaborationwithteachers,willdecideonthesuitabilityofthetrip.Afeewillbechargedtocoverthecostoftheevent.FieldTripsareaprivilege,notaright.Studentsmust comply with all school behaviour policies and expectations in order to participate in a field trip.

MembersoftheSchoolActivitiesCommitteewillalsoparticipateinthecoordinationoffieldtrips.Parentswillhelptochaperonetheseoutings.Pleasenotethatmostfieldtripsusebustransportationandthatspecialarrangementswillbemadeforstudentswithmedicalneeds.Permissioninwritingmustbeobtainedfromparents/guardians in order for a student to participate.

FIRE DRILLSPracticefiredrillsareheldregularlythroughouttheschoolyear.Allstudentswillparticipateandareexpectedto walk quickly and quietly to our designated outside area.

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FORBIDDEN MATERIALSItemsexpresslyforbiddenatschoolincludeelectroniccommunicationsdevicessuchastoysoranyfavouriteitemsfromhome,iPods,GameBoys,NintendoDS,PSPs,oranyotherhandheldgames,cellularphones,pagersor beepers, laser devices such as laser pointers, knives, weapons, explosives, fire crackers, spray devices, illegal drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products. The Academy is equipped with enough materials to entertain the children. This restriction on items from home is put in place to avoid broken spirits due to lost or broken toys.

FUNDRAISINGInanefforttokeeptherateoftuitionasaffordableaspossible,theschooloffersvariousopportunitiesforfundraising.AllfundraisingactivitiesareevaluatedandcoordinatedthroughtheAdvancementCounciland/ortheFundraisingCommittee.Newideasarewelcome.Itishelpfulifnewideasarepresentedinwriting,withpotential revenue and details addressed, and delivered to the office prior to a meeting of these groups.

GOING GREENInourbestattempttodoourparttobeenvironmentallyconsciousandpro-active,HorizonAcademyiscommitted to increase awareness among the students, their families and the school community at large and to establishprotocolsandrecommendationsforbecomingbetter“KeepersoftheEarth”.

Horizon Academy separates garbage into containers for paper, plastic, glass, aluminum, and food waste. AppropriatematerialfromthecafeteriaisusedascompostfortheOrganicGarden,andstudentsineveryclass participate in the care and development of this garden. The cafeteria at the Academy also serves lunch and snacksonpaperorre-useableplates.

TheGreeningCommitteeservestofurtherthedevelopmentoftheschool’sGoGreen!Program.

GRADE LEVEL PROMOTION/RETENTION/ACCELERATIONPROMOTIONistheactionthatadvancesastudentfromoneleveltothenextonthebasisofdemonstratedacademic achievement.

RETENTIONistheactionthatprovidesastudenttheopportunitytogainorreinforcelearningbasedontheadopted course of study and objectives by being reassigned to the same standard.

ACCELERATIONisanactionthatprovidesthestudent,whohasadvancedacademicachievement,withamoreappropriatelearningenvironmentbybeingreassignedtoahigherstandard.Decisionsregardingtheaccelerationofstudentsaremadebythefacultyandadministration.Studentsmaybereferredforaccelerationby a teacher or by a parent/legal guardian.

The principal has the authority to promote, retain, or accelerate students.

Parents/legalguardiansofstudentsbeingconsideredforretentionareofficiallynotifiednolaterthantheendof the second semester that there are concerns regarding the educational progress of their child and that a conference will be scheduled. At this conference, the teacher will inform the parents/guardians of the reasons why their child is being considered for retention and discuss ways they may help the child. The final decision will not be made until the end of the third term; an additional conference will be held at that time.

StudentsmayberequiredtoattendSummerSchooltoimprovetheiracademicskills.AttheendofSummerSchool,thestudent’sprogresswillbeevaluatedandheorshemaybepromotedtothenextstandardor

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retainedatthecurrentgrade.Parents/legalguardiansdisagreeingwiththedecisionmayappeal,inwriting,tothePrincipalwithinthreeweeksoffinalretentionnotification.

Thedecisiontoretainstudentsisnevereasyandmanyfactorsaretakenintoconsideration.Amongthemare:

• Studentattendance •Reportcardgrades •Workhabits/dailyachievement • Socialmaturity •Classlevelexpectations •AchievementtestscoresHighexpectationsfromparents/legalguardians/caregiversencourageacademicsuccess.Encouragingstudentsto be in school daily, to complete their assignments, and to take seriously their responsibility to learn, will, in most cases, ensure success.

GUIDANCE SERVICESHorizonAcademyisequippedwithaschoolcounsellor.Counsellingservicesincludeindividualandgroupcounselling, referral to outside agencies when appropriate, and parenting assistance when requested. Counsellingcanbeinitiatedbythestudent,orattherequestoftheparent/guardianorschoolpersonnelonbehalf of the student.

Intheeventofacrisis,counsellingserviceswillbeprovidedtostudents.

HEALTH ISSUESMedication PolicyShouldyourchildneedmedicationduringtheschoolday,parentsmustfollowtheseprocedures.

•ThemedicationmustbeplacedinaZiplocbaglabelledwithyourchild’snameandclass,andthetimeit should be administered. •Onlyparentsareallowedtodelivermedicationtotheschooloffice.(Atnotimeshouldsiblingsbeputin chargeofthis).

Returning To SchoolStudentsmayNOTreturntoschoolfor24hours:

• afterbeingfever-free • afterbeginninganantibioticmedicationregime • afterbeingproperlytreatedforinfections • afterbeingtreatedforvomitingordiarrhea

HELPING STUDENTS SUCCEEDInordertohelpyourchildsucceed,itisimportanttodevelopapositivehomelearningclimate.Asparents/legalguardians, you can accomplish this by

• encouragingandexpectinghighperformancefromyourchildforschoolwork,householdduties,and other responsibilities • showinginterestinwhatyourchilddoeseachdayintheclassroombyaskingspecificquestions

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•providingproperconditionsforhomestudy,includingdefinitestudytimeandquiet,non-distracting conditions • limitingthetimespentwatchingtelevision •providingsupervisiontoensureyourchildreceivesadequaterest,nutrition,andphysicalexercise. Parents/LegalGuardians/Caregiversarealsoencouragedtobeinvolvedintheschoolby • volunteeringtohelpwithschoolactivities • attendingparentmeetings • visitingyourchild’sclassroom(uponappointment) •participatinginparent-teacherconferences.Horizon parents/legal guardians should never hesitate to call the school to have questions or concerns answered.

HOMEWORKWhilelearningathomeisanessentialpartofyourchild’sdevelopment,itisHorizon’sviewthatafterspending7 hours at school with trained teachers, what’s left of your child’s day should be used primarily as quality time withfamilymembers.Homework,then,shouldservetwomainpurposes:first,toreinforcewhatthestudenthas learned during that day; second, to make parents aware of what their children are doing on a daily basis.

Horizonwillfollowthe10minutehomeworkruleperlevel.

Therefore • Inf.110minutes • Inf.220minutes • Std.130minutes • Std.240minutes • Std.350minutes • Std.460minutes • Std.570minutes • Std.680minutesPre-kinderandKindergartenstudentsaretobereadtoeverynightforatleast10minutes.Teachersoftheselevels will use the daily planners to let parents know how they can help their children to reinforce learning.

LIBRARYHorizon’s library exists both to promote literacy and the enjoyment of reading, and to support the curricular needsofthemembersoftheHorizonAcademycommunity.Ourgoalistoofferstudentsandfacultyaccesstoawidevarietyofmaterialsinseveralformatsincludingbooks,periodicals,CD-ROMs,theInternet,video,andaudiotapes.Parentsareencouragedtodonatetoourschoollibrary.

Studentsreceiveinstructionandborrowbooksduringtheirscheduledreadingclassorlibrarytime,andtheymay come to the library to exchange books or research a topic any time during library hours.

All borrowed books must be returned to the library. The cost of materials that are lost or not returned will be chargedtothestudent(orparent).Administrationreservestherighttowithholdfinalreportcardsifalllibrarydebts are not settled.

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LOST AND FOUNDHorizon Academy has a lost and found area. You are encouraged to check it regularly for missing items, as unclaimeditemswilleventuallybedonatedtoaworthycauseliketheChildren’sHomeortheHostel.Itemswill be removed from the lost and found after two weeks.

Pleaselabelyourchild’sbook-bag,lunchbox,waterbottles,andsoon.

LUNCH AND SNACK PROGRAMOneofthecorevaluesatHorizonAcademyisHealthyLiving,andtheschoolcafeteriastrivesdailytoprovidetasty,child-friendly,nutritioussnacksandlunches.Fruitsandvegetablesaremenustaples;wholewheatflourisused over and along with; nothing is fried.

Theaveragedailycostforamorningsnack,lunch,andafternoonsnackperstudentis$7.Itisbesttopayweeklyorevenmonthlyintoyourchild’slunchaccountbyputtingmoneyonhiscard.Eachstudent’sIDcardserves as his or her meal card as well, and the cost of any food or drinks the child receives in the cafeteria is automatically deducted from this card.

Snack and Lunch Times10:00–10:20;12:00-12:40;2:00–2:15

MenuThe monthly cafeteria menu is emailed home to parents and posted on the school’s website at the start of the firstweekofeachmonth.Parentsare,then,abletoseewhat’sbeingpreparedandtopre-ordertheirchild’smealsonamonthlybasis.Parentsarealsoencouragedtosupportthecafeteriasinceitisameansofgeneratingincome for the school.

MAKING UP WORKStudentswillbeexpectedtomakeupanyclassworkandteststhattheymissduetoabsences.Ifastudenthas been absent for more than two days, he or she should return with a note from the parent or guardian documenting the reason for the absence.

Whenthechildreturnstoschool,theworkthathasbeenmissedwillbedocumentedbythehomeroomteacher and the list will be sent home. The teacher will then generate a schedule for the student’s making up work to ensure that each child is able to catch up without feeling overwhelmed.

Parentsareremindedthatextendedabsencesforreasonsthatarewithinparentalcontroloftenprovedetrimental to students’ performance in school, and that such absences are not recommended.

MONEYItisdifficultforchildrentokeeptrackofmoney.Ifparentschoosetosendmoneytoschoolforanyreason,please put it in a sealed envelope that is labeled with your child’s name and what the money is for. Always send moneyinyourchild’stake-homefolder.

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ORDER OF THE DAY8:00 Arrivaltime;firstbellrings8:05 MorningAssemblyandCharacterDevelopmentsession8:20 Classesbegin10:00 Morningsnackbreak10:20 Returntoclasses12:00 Lunchbreak12:40 Returntoclasses2:00 Afternoonsnackbreak2:15 Returntoclasses2:50 Dailywrap-up3:00 DismissalfromSchoolTheschool’sresponsibilityforsupervisionofstudentsbeginsat8:00andendsat3:15.ForchildrenproperlyenrolledinAfterCare,theschool’sresponsibilityforthesupervisionofstudentsbeginsat3:00andendsat5:30.

Ifstudentsarenotpickedupby3:15,theymustgodirectlytoAfterCareandparentswillbechargedthehourly rate.

PARENTS AS PARTNERSHorizon Academy remains committed to its belief that partners should be partners in the educational process. Weaskparentstosetrulesandlimitssothatyourchild:

• getstobedearlyonschoolnights • getsahealthybreakfastbeforecomingtoschool • arrivestoschoolontimeandispickedupontimeattheendoftheday • isdressedaccordingtotheschool’sdresscode • completesassignmentsontime • completesongoingrequirementsofnightlyreadingandMathMaintenance • comestoschoolwithnutritionalsnackandluncheachdayorisabletopurchasenutritionalsnacksand lunches in the cafeteria.

We also invite parents to • activelyparticipateinschoolactivitiessuchasParent-TeacherConferences • seethattheirchildpaysforanydamageofschoolbooksorpropertyduetocarelessnessorneglecton his or her part •notifytheschoolwithawrittennotewhenthestudenthasbeenabsentortardy •notifytheschoolofficeofanychangesofaddressorimportantphonenumbers • informtheschoolofanyspecialsituationregardingthestudent’swell-being,safetyorhealth • completeandreturnanyrequestedinformationpromptly • readschoolnotesandnewslettersandshowinterestinthestudent’stotaleducation • supportthedevelopmentalandeducationalgoalsoftheschool • supportandcooperatewiththedisciplinepolicyoftheschool • treatteacherswithrespectandcourtesyindiscussingstudentproblems

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PARTIESTherewillbefourschool-widecelebrationseachyear.ThefirstisHorizon’sBirthdayParty,celebratedonSeptember7.Thenextthreepartieswillcoincidewiththeendofeachterm.OurChristmaspartywillbeheldonthelastdayofschoolbeforetheChristmasbreak,ourearlyEasterEggHuntonthedaybeforeschoolbreaksforEaster,andanEnd-of-Yearcelebrationbeforewegooffonsummerholidays.

TheSchoolActivitiesCommitteewillhelptoorganizeandcoordinatevolunteersanddonationsfortheseandother school celebrations.

PROGRESS REPORTSHorizonProgressReportswillbesenthomethreetimesperyear,atthemidpointofeachterm.Thesereportsare designed to reflect the progress your child has made towards his or her individual standards of learning and development.

PROBLEM SOLVING ROOMStudentsreporttotheProblemSolvingRoomafterbeinginvolvedinthreeincidentsofinappropriatebehavioror one major incident which warrants more serious attention. Here the child has an opportunity to discuss the incident with a problem solver who works to help the child to learn to consider the reasons for his behavior, the consequences of his actions, any alternative actions he may have taken, and the ways in which he will choose to deal with future incidents.

ReadmoreaboutProblemSolvingRoomProceduresunderBEHAVIOUREXPECTATIONS.

QUESTIONSFeelfreetocontactusattelephonenumber223-2765withanyquestionsorconcernsyoumayhave.Wewillgladly address them.

REGISTRATION OF NEW STUDENTSRegistrationforincomingstudentsisongoingthroughtheyear,dependingonthenumberofspacesavailableineachclass.Parentsofregisteredstudentswillbeaskedtore-registerforthenewschoolyearattheendofthesecondterm.AllnewregistrationsshouldbefinalizedbyApril30.

RELATED ARTSTheExpressiveArtsofferedatHorizonAcademyincludeGeneralArt,GeneralMusic,andP.E.(FitnessandSports)assubjectstakenbyeverystudent.Cooking,ArtsandCrafts,Art,Dance,Chess,Recorder,Guitar,Keyboard,Choir,Basketball,Football,andSwimmingarealloptionsavailabletostudentsforthethree-timesaweekExpressiveArtsprogram.Thesecoursesarechosenbasedonthetalentsandinterestsofourstudentsspecifically to develop these talents and interests and to complete the holistic education of our students.

REPORT CARDSReportcardswillbeissuedthreetimesfortheyear,onceattheendofeachterm.Parentsarerequiredtocome in to collect their child’s report cards and to discuss progress with their child’s teachers.

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SCHOOL BOOKSHorizon school books are carefully selected to meet the needs of our uniquely blended curriculum. From nationally printed texts to internationally used series, our school books work together well to provide a challenging level of education.

Books should be labeled and covered and should not be carried to and from school without a book bag. Parentsarerequestedtocheckbooksregularlytoensurethattheyremainingoodcondition.

SCHOOL COMMITTEESAs part of the Horizon commitment to working with parents as partners, six school committees have been formed.TheyaretheAdvancementCouncilandtheEvents,Fundraising,Marketing,SchoolActivities,andGreeningCommittees.

These committees consist of parents and teacher representatives, and they exist to further the growth and development of the school in various ways. For more information on the committees and how you can be involved, please contact the office.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICESHorizon Academy’s belief in inclusion allows us to welcome those students on both ends of the special needs spectrum, as long as their needs are identified as needs which can be addressed within the setting of the Horizon classroom. A child psychologist is on staff and available for interventions, consultations, formulation of IndividualProgressPlans,andanyotherformsofassistancenecessary.

STUDY HABITSHorizonstudentsareencouragedtodevelopanddisplaygoodstudyhabits.Ourexpectationsincludethatthey

•befullypreparedforclasseachday •handinallworkontime(thisincludeshomework,classwork,andprojects) •beresponsibleformakingupmissedworkinareasonableamountoftime • considerreadingandstudyingtobeanimportantpartoftheirdailywork.

SUMMER PROGRAMSHorizonAcademyrunsasummercampeachyearinthemonthofJuly.CampHorizonoffersactivitiesthatblend academic reinforcement with sports and outside play time, so students are engaged in worthwhile pursuits all day long.

ParentsareinformedoftheCampschedulesandinvitedtoregisterforCampatthebeginningofJune.FirstpreferenceforspaceintheCampisalwaysgiventoregisteredstudentsofHorizonAcademy.

SUMMER READING AND MATHInordertofurtherencouragethedevelopmentofindividualreadingskillsandmathmaintenance,Horizon’steachersprepareSummerReadingandMathpacketsforourstudents.Thesepacketscontainlistsofappropriately leveled suggested reading material and math practice exercises that students can complete over the course of the summer.

CompletionofthematerialintheSummerpacketmaymeanaheadstartonthecollectionofCharacterBeesfor the new academic year.

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SUPPLIESWhensuppliesarebroughtin,somewillbeconsideredascommunitysupplies,sincetheywillbeshared.Itemssuch as lunch boxes, book bags, sweaters, water bottles, and so on, however, must be clearly labeled with your child’s name.

SUSPENSIONRepeatedviolationofschoolregulationswillnotbetolerated.Suspensionwillbeusedforseriousinfractionsofschoolpoliciesandundesirablebehaviour.Suspensionmayonlybeimposedbytheschoolprincipal.Parentswill be notified of the administration’s decision and the matter will be discussed. All school work missed during suspension will be made up after suspension is lifted.

TARDINESS/TRUANCYStudentswhoarriveatschoollate(after8:05a.m.)shouldreporttotheofficebeforegoingtoclass,preferablywithaparent.Latenessisdiscouraged,asitisveryimportantthatstudentsarriveearlysothattheycansettlein and get ready for their day.

TruancymustbereportedtotheMinistryofEducation,asitisconsideredaseriousoffence.

TELEPHONE USE Ifstudentsneedtousethetelephonetocontacttheirparentsatanytime,theymayaskpermissiontogototheofficetomakeaphonecall.Cellularphonesarenotpermittedinschool.Childrenwhobringcellphonestoschool will be asked to leave them in the office at the start of each day and collect them at dismissal time.

TESTINGTesting is an important part of the process of assessment. At Horizon Academy, we believe that testing does not always have to be in the form of traditional, written tests, though. Testing may also be verbal, or individual or group assessments during practical assignments, or it may take a variety of other forms. The focus of the assessment is always to determine the student’s true grasp of the concepts that have been taught.

TRANSPORTATION CHANGESIfyourchild’stransportationarrangementschangeforanygivenday,pleasealertusbysendinganoteinyourchild’stake-homefolderorcalltheofficebefore2:30.

VISITORSAll visitors, including familiar faces, must sign in and get a name tag in the office. Horizon Academy welcomes andencouragesfamilyinvolvement.Itisimportanttorememberthatwhilethisprocessmayseeminconvenientto frequent visitors, it is the goal and responsibility of the school to create a safe learning environment.

VOLUNTEERSByexpressinganinterestinyourchild’seducation,youareencouraginghisorhersuccessinschool.Ifyouwouldlikemoreinformationonhowtobecomeavolunteer,pleasecalltheofficeorvisitourwebsite.

WEBSITEOurschoolwebsitecanbefoundatwww.horizonacademy.edu.bz.Thewebsiteisanotherimportantmeansof communicating with our school community, and we are making every effort to ensure that the site is informative,relevant,anduserfriendly.ReadmoreunderCOMMUNICATION.

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WISH LISTAHorizonAcademyWishListwillbepostedonourwebsitethroughouttheyear.Weaskthatyoutakenoteofthis list from time to time, to see if you may be able to assist with any of the items we need. All donations are gratefully accepted.

YOUYouareyourchild’sfirstandmostimportantteacher.Noonecaninfluenceyourchild’slifethewaythatyoucan!

YOUNGER SIBLINGSYoungersiblingsshouldNOTbebroughttoschoolwhenyouarevolunteering.Thisallowsyoutogivefullandfocusedattentiontowhatyouaredoing,andhelpstobuildaspecialrelationshipbetweenyouandyourin-school child.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZMakesureyourchildgetsplentyofrestatnight-time.Settingandkeepingabedtimehelpshimorhertobealert and ready to learn each day. A well rested child learns more in class.

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3Mls.NorthernHighwayBelizeCity,BelizeP:223-2765

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The Positive Approach To Education