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Board of Directors
SCHOOL HISTORY
ARTICLE 1: COMMUNITY RELATIONS
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
BOARD MEETINGS 1.I.B.1
The Board may conduct administrative, regular business, and special meetings as are needed to meet its responsibilities and carry out the business of the school.
At administrative meetings, the board will review items to be acted upon at the next regular business meeting, plan the agenda for the regular business meeting, address questions to the principal and/or the management team regarding the proposed agenda, and discuss other administrative matters. At regular business meetings, the Board will take action on items as needed to conduct the business of the school.
The Board will conduct monthly administrative and regular business meetings for ten months, September through June. Special meetings of the Board may be called at any time by the president. Each member shall be notified of the time, place and purpose of the meeting.
At special meetings, no business may be transacted other than that stated in the notice except with the approval of the majority of the members attending the meeting.
Meetings conducted in open session will be held at times and locations accessible to the public.
Reference
Missouri Sunshine Law Chapter 610
Revised: Statutes of Missouri 2000
QUORUM 1.I.B.2
At all business and special meetings, a majority of the entire Board (6) shall constitute a quorum to take action. If a quorum is not present at the announced starting time of the meeting, the president or chairperson may, with the concurrence of those present, begin a discussion of the agenda items and set a time when action on the agenda items will be taken.
PUBLIC RECORDS AVAILABLE UNDER MISSOURI SUNSHINE LAW 1.I.E
To facilitate requests for records by the public, the board establishes the following policy for the inspection and duplication of records.
Any person who desires to inspect any records which is a public record under the Missouri Sunshine Law shall submit a request in writing to the secretary of the board.
Each request for access to a public record shall be acted upon as soon as possible, but in no event later than the end of the third business day following the date the request is received by the secretary. If the request is not granted immediately, the secretary shall give a detailed explanation of the cause for further delay and the place and earliest time and date the record will be available for inspection. This period for document inspection may exceed three days for reasonable cause. If a request for access is denied, the secretary shall provide, upon request, a written statement of the grounds for such denial, Such statement shall cite the specific provision of law under which access is denied and shall be furnished to the requestor no later than the end of the third business day following the date that the request for the statement is received.
The secretary shall also advise the individual requesting inspection of cost, if any, to retrieve the record and the charge for obtaining a copy of the record. If a cost will be incurred, a statement of all estimated costs will be communicated to the individual seeking the record and payment must be made in advance of searching for the record. The fee shall not exceed the actual cost of document search and duplication.
"Public record" shall mean any record, whether written or electronically stored, which is not closed pursuant to Section 610.021 RSMo. and which is retained by the board including any report, survey, memorandum, or other document, or study prepared and presented to the board by consultant or other professional service paid for in whole or part by public funds, provided, however, that personally identifiable student records shall be open for inspection by parents, guardian or other custodian of students. The term "public record" shall not include any internal memorandum or letter received or prepared by or on behalf of a member of a public government body consisting on advice, opinions, and recommendations in connection with deliberate decision-making process of said body, unless such records are retained by the public governmental body or presented at a public, meeting.
If a public record contains material which is not exempt from disclosure as well as material which is exempt from disclosure, the board shall separate the exempt and nonexempt material and make the nonexempt material available for examination and copying.
Reference
Missouri Sunshine Law Chapter 610
Revised: Statutes of Missouri 2000
ARTICLE 4: PERSONNEL
PERSONNEL
SECURITY OF PERSONNEL 4.VI.H
MANDATORY BEHAVIOR
Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy is a learning community committed to modeling appropriate interactions between adults and students. We expect character qualities such as cooperation and respect for others of all staff, students and parents. The Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy Board of Directors and staff believe that no child should be exposed to uncivil behavior; no teacher should be expected to tolerate uncivil behavior; and no parents should be expected to place their children in an uncivil environment. It is the school's responsibility to ensure a safe and secure environment for student and staff. The following actions are considered inappropriate and will not be tolerated at anytime. The Board will impose severe consequences for each infraction described below.
PARENTS/GUARDIANS
1. Threats/Physical Encounters
Threats and/or any type of physical encounter with an Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy member will immediately result in the loss of the privilege to enter the school building. Moreover, law enforcement officials will be contacted
2. The Use of Profanity Toward A Member of the School Staff at the School or on the Phone
This violation will be viewed as verbal assault, and as a result, the parent/guardian will be asked not to enter the building for a specific period of time. This period will be determined by the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy Board of Directors. Upon the Board's decision, the law enforcement officials will be informed of the length of time this action is to be in effect.
3. Standing at A Classroom Door/Entering A Classroom prior to Signing in at the Office
This violation will be viewed as trespassing. Any parent or family member of a student who is seen in or near a classroom without a name tag will be considered in violation of the school's policy, and will be treated as an intruder. Under no circumstances should other family members or friends accompany a parent(s) to a classroom without the consent of the principal. Law enforcement officers will be summoned to escort the individual(s) from the building, should this occur.
Parents who commit any of the violations described above may continue to drop off and pick up their children at the school. However, any parent who is under a suspension from the school building may not enter the building for any reason during the period of suspension.
We need the assistance of each parent to establish a
school in which we can all be proud. Character education is the centerpiece of the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy Program. We expect our parents and staff to model the behavior that will help students achieve success and become good citizens. Through our cooperative efforts, we can ensure that Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy students are prepared to succeed in every way.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Adopted May 7, 2003
PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE 4.VII.D.8
Presenting a professional appearance, positive attitude and terrific customer service reflects positively on the Academy and on the employee as a professional. This means wearing clothes that are clean, pressed, well fitted and in good condition; not careless, unkempt and unprofessional looking.
There are three (3) broad categories of appropriate dress for all occasions:
For men -
Dress - Suit or sport coat with a dress shirt and a tie, sweater and a dress shirt and a tie, tailored pants.
Casual - Sport coat with a dress shirt without a tie. Polo shirt under a sport coat, sweater with a dress shirt, tailored pants.
Clearly Casual - Polo shirt or woven sport shirt, khaki or cotton sport pants.
For women -
Dress - Suit, dress, blazer, skirt, sweater, blouse, tailored slacks.
Casual - Casually styled jacket, sweater, blouse, skirt, tailored slacks.
Clearly casual - Polo shirt or woven sport shirt, khaki or cotton sport slacks.
We do not consider the following appropriate for work: jeans, sweatshirts, sweatpants, nylon jogging suits, shorts, halter-tops, novelty t-shirts, tight leggings or revealing attire.The safest and most appropriate footwear for both men and women covers the entire foot. Consideration can be made to accommodate current fashions. However, in no situation are "flip flops", "house slippers" or "thongs" ever allowed.
Adopted
May 4, 2005
ARTICLE 5: STUDENT
STUDENTS
ADMISSION POLICY 5.I.A.1
The school will serve a diverse population of students. The Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy will be open to all students within the city of St. Louis, Missouri. Students will be selected based on an open lottery system by grade level with sibling preference considered year two and thereafter. Enrollment will not be limited to, or based on race, religion, ethnicity, or economic conditions of the family.
Reference
A Charter Proposal for Missouri Baptist University
SUSPENSIONS/EXPULSIONS 5.I.A.4
Three types of alternative learning placements, suspensions and/or expulsion may be utilized and/or recommended by the principal in accordance with the policy. Students under suspension or expulsion are not allowed on school property and may not participate in school activities without special permission from the principal.
In-School Suspension - This placement is defined as removal of the student from his/her assigned classroom and daily schedule for disciplinary purposes. The student shall be assigned for ten (10) school days or less to an alternative learning environment within the school.
Out-of-School Suspension - This type of suspension is defined as removal of the student from the school premises for disciplinary purposes. Students may make up work for out-of-school suspension.
Expulsion - This type of suspension is defined as removal of the student from school premises for disciplinary purposes for a definite period of time. This action requires that the principal suspend the student for ten (10) school days. The principal shall recommend to the Board that the student be expelled.
EXCUSABLE ABSENCES POLICY 5.I.A.5d.1
EVERY PARENT, GUARDIAN, OR OTHER PERSON IN THIS STATE HAVING CHARGE, CONTROL, OR CUSTODY OF A CHILD BETWEEN THE AGES OF 7 AND 26 SHALL CAUSE THE CHILD TO ATTEND REGULARLY SOME PUBLIC, PRIVATE, PAROCHIAL, CHARTER, OR HOME SCHOOL NOT LESS THAN THE ENTIRE SCHOOL TERM OF THE SCHOOL WHICH THE CHILD ATTENDS (MO 167.031)
Excusable Absences
Death in the student's immediate family
Illness of the student
Doctor and dental appointments
Certain days for religious observances
Court appearance
When a family is leaving town and desires to take the student with them, they may be excused up to five (5) school days provided that:
1)The school is notified in advance of the absence.
2)The student procures assignments in advance of absence.
3)All assigned work is turned in upon returning to school.
4)All tests, etc. are made up at the direction of the individual teacher.
Absences for all other reasons are inexcusable and shall be treated as truancy.
HOMEWORK POLICY 5.I.B.2
The Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy parent partnership is the centerpiece of the support system that is critical for continuous student productivity. In order that maximum achievement levels are reached, directed learning experiences must extend beyond the school day. To that end, students shall be assigned homework on a regular basis, and parents shall be expected to provide supervision for the completion of these assignments.
Homework provides students additional opportunities for clarifying concepts, ideas, and problems not mastered in class; for practicing new concepts and problems; and for gaining additional understandings from applications of class activity to home and community environment. Homework also affords parents ongoing involvement with the student's educational experiences, and provides the basis for monitoring both the student and his classroom.
Homework shall be consistent with the curriculum, instructional plans, and student needs as evidenced by achievement indicators. Frequency, complexity, and length of homework assignments are controlled by grade level and subject area and shall be developed by classroom teachers in consultation with the school principal.
ACADEMIC ACCELERATION POLICY 5.I.B.3a
The Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy Board of Directors believes it is important to encourage, support, and assist each student to develop academically. Where ability is concerned, equality consists of providing equitably for all kinds and levels of individual differences. Adapting to this diversity is the inevitable price of productivity, high standards and fairness to the students.
In recognition of the diverse needs of students, the Board supports acceleration that is appropriate to student needs. Acceleration at EHLA refers to educational strategies, which provide opportunities for students to more rapidly achieve educational goals, as described below. Participation in acceleration is based on individually identified needs and is designed on a case by case basis. In arriving at a decision to utilize acceleration for a student, the combined views of the parent, student, all appropriate teachers, and principal are taken into consideration. All student assessment data will be important factors in a decision. In each instance, the best interest of the student predominates. The following are examples of acceleration strategies that may be considered in making decisions to appropriately meet the needs of the individual student:
A. Grade Skipping
The student is moved ahead of normal grade placement. This may be done during an academic school year (e.g., placing a third grader directly into fourth grade, or promoting a third grader to fifth grade).
B. Curriculum Compacting
The student is given reduced amounts of introductory activities, drill, review, and so on. The time saved may be used to move faster through the curriculum.
C. Subject Matter Acceleration
The student is placed for a part of a day with students at more advanced grade levels for one or more subjects without being assigned to a higher grade (e.g., a seconder going to third grade for science).
Adopted
October 2, 2002
UNIFORM POLICY 5.1.C.2
The uniform policy at Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy is a mandatory policy. Students are required to wear the designated uniform that was voted on by the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy Board of Directors.
The designated uniform at the elementary level is:
Girls - Green plaid pleated jumper, green plaid pleated skirt, green plaid long pants or dark green long pants.
White cotton blouse, white polo shirt or turtleneck white shirt.
Boys - Khaki long pants or dark green long pants.
White cotton shirt, white polo shirt or turtleneck white shirt.
Black tie for students enrolled in grades 3 - 5.
No shorts allowed.
The designated uniform at the middle/high school is:
Ladies
Skirt or Pant: Dickies style KH- Khaki
Blouse: Middle School - Light Pink; High School (grades
9th - 10th) - Fushia, both with school's logo
Shoes: SOLID black or SOLID white (shoe strings MUST coincide with shoes)
Belt: SOLID black or SOLID brown. Buckle MUST not exceed one (1) inch. No personalized buckles permitted.
Undershirt: Plain white t-shirts.
Gentlemen
Pant: Dickies style KH-Khaki
Shirt: Middle School - Kelly Green; High School (grades 9th - 12th) - Hunter Green, both with school's logo
Shoes: SOLID black or SOLID brown (shoe strings MUST coincide with shoes).
Belt: SOLID black or SOLID brown. Buckle MUST not exceed one (1) inch. No personalized buckles allowed.
Undershirt: Plain white t-shirts.
All students will be expected to be in uniform on the first day of school. In cases where special circumstances prevent the student from being in uniform the first day of school, the parent of the student must inform the school office to gain approval prior to the start of school. Approval for students who will not have a uniform on the first day of school may be sought from the school's building administrator. However, for students who need to be out of uniform beyond the first day of school, parents must make arrangements for this through the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy Board of Directors.
When special circumstances arise during the school year that prevents the student from being in uniform for one day, the parent of the student must seek approval of the school's building administrator. If a student must be out of uniform for more than one day during the school year, the parent must make arrangements for this through the EHLA Board of Directors.
Revised
October 2, 2002
May 4, 2005
August 1, 2006
ARTICLE 7: INTERNAL BOARD POLICIES
INTERNAL BOARD POLICIES
ORGANIZATION: AUTHORIZATION FOR EXISTENCE 7.1
The Omicron Theta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated submitted its application for sponsorship of the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy to Harris-Stowe State College on January 25, 2000. The Academy's theme of mathematics, science and technology shall be integrated into a basic skills
curriculum that meets or exceeds State of Missouri mastery requirements. Harris-Stowe College approved the application to sponsor Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy on February 23, 2000. EHLA became the first charter school application to be approved by a college or university under Senate Bill 781. On April 20, 2000, the Missouri State Board of Education found the application to be in compliance with the law and took no action. The application had therefore completed all review necessary.
The mission of the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy is to provide challenging and world-class instruction for young children so that the opportunity for these youngsters to ever be labeled as "at-risk" is significantly reduced. The interventionist strategies incorporated by caring educators will provide the foundation for a strong language arts, mathematics, science and technology-based education as preparation for their growth during intermediate and advanced schooling. A strong parental, professional and community-based environment at the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy will instill in children the desire to excel and the habit of enjoying learning in preparation for responsible adulthood in a global society.
To achieve this mission, the program will accommodate the broad range of children's needs, their learning rates and styles, their knowledge, experiences, and interests to facilitate continuous learning. The integrated curriculum will incorporate a variety of instructional models, strategies and resources.
Named in honor of an African American womam who, as an outstanding educator, promoted scholarship and service, the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy recognizes the values she represented to be essential in the academic and social development of EHLA students. Therefore, character education and service learning will be integrated throughout the school's environment and curriculum.
The Board has final responsibility on all matters concerning the school. Each Board member will have one vote, and adoption of any issue shall be by simple majority. The Board shall meet a minimum of ten meetings per year, with special or additional meetings being called by the Board President or by any three Board members.
Reference
BYLAWS/APPENDIX A
(III,d)
(III,e)
ORGANIZATION: OFFICERS 7.1.B
THE CHARTER SCHOOL BOARD is a standing committee of Omicron Theta Omega Chapter. This committee shall function as the Board of Directors for the Ethel
Hedgeman Lyle Academy.
The general responsibilities of the Board are to:
Define the school's mission.
Set overarching policy.
Approve the annual budget.
Monitor school performance and operations.
Oversee the school's management contract.
Report student achievement results to the city, parents and the community.
Develop an accountability plan with a third party provider.
All Board meetings of the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy, and minutes of such meeting, shall be subject to the Freedom of Information Act and the Missouri Open Meetings Act, as well as other applicable statutes.
Board meetings will be open to parents and open to the public. At least one meeting per year shall be held especially for all parents and the public to attend and receive an annual report about the charter school's performance. Closed meetings may be held to discuss matters covered by the applicable statute(s).
Reference
BYLAWS/ARTICLE VIII(n)
Policy adopted December 15, 2001
The Academy's Board will not include anyone employed by Missouri Baptist University.
Reference
A Charter School Proposal for Missouri Baptist University
BOARD MEMBERS: CONFLICT OF INTEREST/NEPOTISM 7.II.B
No Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy Board member may:
Be employed by the school in any capacity. No immediate relative of any Board member may be employed by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy. For policy purpose, "immediate relative" is defined as father, father-in-law, mother, mother-in-law, spouse, son, son-in-law, daughter, daughter-in-law, grandchild, brother, brother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law.
Act as an agent or solicitor for the sale of school books, supplies or equipment, solicit or promote such sales to individuals or the school, or receive any fee or reward for any such sales.
Participate in the making of a contract in which she has a private pecuniary interest, either directly or indirectly, except as may be permitted by state law.
Use confidential information concerning the property or affairs of the school to gain financial or other private interest for herself or others.
Accept any gift or favor worth more than $25.00 that may tend to influence her in the discharge of her duties.
If a Board member or a member of her family has a financial interest in a proposed Board action, she shall abstain from the discussion, consideration, action and voting matter.
Reference: Section 105,487, Revised Statutes of Missouri
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