Student Handbook 2020-2021

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Student Handbook 2020-2021
                                           655 S Monaco Pkwy, Room 120
                                                 Denver, CO 80224
                                                   720.423.8740
                                               www.delta.dpsk12.org

                                      April McLaughlin, Principal
                                  Theneal Hollmon, Dean of Operations
                                    Jamie Jones, Dean of Instruction

Denver Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or
disability in providing educational services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance
with the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972;
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

Denver Public School District will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to
admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.
Table of Contents
(4)    Mission Statement
               Values
               Vision Statement
(5)    Faculty Information
(6)    Bell Schedule
(7)    2020-2021 Calendar
(9)    Academic Expectations
               Failure to Meet Expectations
               Homework and Student Academic Support
               2020-2021 Fall Remote Learning Expectations
(10)   Attendance
               Procedure for Absences
               Makeup Work
               Habitually Truant Students
               Late Arrival/ Tardy
               Attendance Exemptions
               Withdrawals
               Early Release
(13)   Dress and Grooming
               Dress Code Violations
(14)   General Building Information
               Building Times
               Announcements
               Cafeteria
               Open Campus
               Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergency Drills
               Cell Phone Calls and Contacting a Student during School Hours
(15)   Health Services
               Immunization Policy
               DELTA High School Medication Policy
               Accidents
               Emergency Medical Treatment
               School-Based Health Center
(17)   Report Cards/Progress Report/Conferences
               Grade Reports
               Grading System Philosophy
               Grade Changes
               Requests for Student Records/ Transcripts
(21)   Grade Level Classifications
(22)   Student Code of Conduct
               Student Discipline
Under the Influence
               Suspension
               Expulsion
               Cheating and Plagiarizing
               Hazing
               Loitering/Unauthorized Persons on Campus
               Smoking
               Public Displays of Romantic Affection
               Threats or Bullying
               Weapons
               Discipline Ladder
               Discipline Matrix
(26)   General Campus Policies
               Visitors
               Postings and Commerce
(27)   Student Information
               ID Cards
               Hall Passes
               Lost And Found
               Free or Reduced Lunches
               Fees
(28)   Driver's License Eligibility
(28)   Student Records
(29)   Monthly RTD Passes
(29)   Campus Security
(31)   Technology Parent Permission Form and User Agreement
(32)   Handbook Receipt/ Agreement
Mission and Vision Statement
Delta High School exists to grow belief and self-confidence so students are inspired to reach higher and
realize their potential to succeed. We serve older, diverse students who want to pursue 2 or 4-year
institutions, or obtain industry certification, yet are off-track to graduate and need a smaller more
personalized setting. We meet students where they are, remove barriers, and offer a second chance at
earning a high school diploma as they take ownership of their education through positive change
among a supportive, welcoming community.

DPS Shared Core Values
Faculty Information

                  Job Title             Name             Room

                  Principal         April McLaughlin      116

             Dean of Operations    Theneal Hollmon        218

             Dean of Instruction      Jamie Jones         218

              Office Manager       Rebecca De Luna        120

                 Counselor         Dylan McRoberts        112J
                                   Joanna Hernandez-
               Social Worker                              218
                                        Caudron
                   Nurse              Omisola Ari         104

                  Security         Gilberto Velasquez     242

               CTE – Creative
                                     Jasmin Menez         224
            Technology Education

               Language Arts           Tally Dale         220

               Language Arts         Mary Kuusisto        219

                Mathematics          Vuslat Begovic       117

                Mathematics               TBD             118
                  Science             Nora Krajah       119 / 238
               Social Studies      John-Paul Sullivan     115

              Special Education       Adulis Desta      219/119
DELTA High School 2020-2021 Bell Schedule

              Period 1               9:00—10:00

              Period 2              10:03—11:03

              Period 3              11:06—12:06

              Period 4         12:06—12:51 (LUNCH)

              Period 5               12:54—1:54

              Period 6               1:57—2:57

              Period 7               3:00—4:00
2020-2021 DELTA High School Calendar
Calendar Notes:
    ● Dates and times are subject to change. Stakeholders will be updated as soon as possible in the event
       of any calendar changes.
    ● Report Cards for each quarter will be send by mail to the mailing addresses on file within the two
       weeks following the end of the quarter.
    ● Collaborative School Committee (CSC) – Parents and guardians are encouraged to join the CSC. This
       committee allows you as a parents/guardians to work with administration and participate in making
       high-level decisions for DELTA’s future regarding staffing, school budget, updates on technology, as
       well as DELTA’s marketing, social media, branding, and website.
    ● Mid Quarter Reviews: DELTA staff will conduct a review halfway through each quarter regarding
       each student’s attendance and academic standing.

                          Date                                              Event
                                                                Returning Student Registration
                                                                         7:30am to 3pm
                                                            (New Students – Rolling Registration)
                                                             First Day of School Remote Learning
                     August 24, 2020
                                                                 First day of First Quarter (Q1)
                   September 7, 2020                               Labor Day – No School

                   September 16, 2020                              Q1 Mid Quarter Review
                                                        Collaborative School Committee (CSC) 4-5pm
                   September 17, 2020
                                                        Back to School Night/PT Conferences 4-7pm
                                                                         No School
                  September 28, 2020
                                                             District Non-Student Contact Day
                    October 15, 2020                          New Student Orientation For Q2
                                                                         CSC 4-5pm
                    October 15, 2020                                    Family Night:
                                                                          5-6:30pm
                  October 15 – 16, 2020                         First Quarter Finals, End of Q1
                                                                          No School
                    October 19, 2020
                                                              District Non-Student Contact Day
                                                                          No School
                    October 20, 2020
                                                              District Non-Student Contact Day
                    October 21, 2020                               Start of Quarter 2 (Q2)

                   November 18, 2020                               Q2 Mid Quarter Review
                                                                        CSC 4-5pm
                   November 19, 2020
                                                                   Family Night 5-6:30pm
                  November 23-27, 2020                         No School- Thanksgiving Break

                  December 17, 2020                                      CSC 4-5pm

           December 21, 2020 - January 4, 2021                     No School-Winter Break
Students’ First Day Back after Winter Break
                      January 5, 2021
                                                                New Student Orientation For Q3
                  January 11 – 12, 2021                         Second Quarter Finals, End of Q2

                     January 13, 2021                                       Start of Q3

                     January 18, 2021                         No School- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
                                                                           CSC 4-5pm
                     January 21, 2021
                                                                      Family Night 5-6:30pm
                    February 15, 2021                              No School- Presidents’ Day
                                                                            No School
                    February 16, 2021
                                                                District Non-Student Contact Day
                    February 17, 2021                                Q3 Mid Quarter Review
                   February 18, 2021                                      CSC 4-5pm
              *PT Conferences Mandatory*                             PT Conferences 4-7pm
                     March 10, 2021                             New Student Orientation For Q4

                   March 17 - 18, 2021                           Third Quarter Finals, End of Q3
                                                                          CSC 4-5pm
                     March 18, 2021
                                                                       Family Night 5-6.30
                     March 19, 2021                                   Start of Quarter 4 (Q4)

                 March 29 – April 2, 2021                           No School – Spring Break
                                                                            No School
                       April 5, 2021
                                                                District Non-Student Contact Day
                       April 6, 2021                           Students return from Spring Break

                      Month of April                               PSAT and SAT testing, CMAS
                     April 15, 2021                                       CSC 4-5pm
              *PT Conferences Mandatory*                             PT Conferences 4-7pm
                      April 28, 2021                                 Q4 Mid Quarter Review

                            TBD                                      SAT/PSAT Make up day

                    May 20 - 21, 2021                                      Senior Finals

                    May 25 - 26, 2021                                 Underclassman Finals

                       May 27, 2021                                    GRADUATION DAY!

Academic Expectations
DELTA High School has the highest academic standards for all students. Courses will be rigorous and students are
expected to always give their best effort and complete high-quality work, based on standards and competencies.
DELTA High School teachers strive to create an environment of academic rigor that will prepare students to excel
in college, careers, and life.

Students are expected to actively engage in learning by observing the following practices:
    ● Be on time for class and limit absences due to illness/injury or other emergencies.
    ● Actively promote learning by participating willingly in the lesson of the day and by refraining from
       disruptive conduct.
    ● Bring all necessary materials to class including textbooks, notebooks, pens, pencils, paper, materials
       required by teachers, and homework.
    ● All homework assignments should be neat, clean, and legible. Homework should be handed in on time
       and done to the best of the student’s ability.
    ● All earbuds and headphones are to be removed during instruction.

                             2020-2021 Fall Remote Learning Expectations

Please note the following information regarding Remote Learning expectations as well as details around
synchronous and asynchronous learning. Remember that live, online attendance is required for ALL credit earning
classes (Periods 1, 2, and 3).
                                    Find all teacher classroom links here

                        9-9.30a                                    21st Century Skills
                        Period 1                                      2.5 Credits

                        9.30-9.35                                        Break
  Synchronous
                       9.35-11.05                                      Course 1
    Learning
                        Period 2                                       5 Credits
 (Whole Group)
                      11.05-11.15                                        Break
                      11.15-12.45                                      Course 2
                       Period 3                                        5 Credits
                                                  12.45-1.30
                                               Period 4 (Lunch)
                        1.30-2.15
                                                                   Academic Success
 Asynchronous           Period 5
    Learning
                        2.15-3.00                                   Virtual Support
 (Independent)
                        Period 6

                                            Synchronous Learning

     ●   Live, whole group learning.
     ●   Teacher delivers direct instruction of course material.
     ●   Attendance required for all courses.
Asynchronous Learning

     ●    Designed for independent and small group work time.
     ●    No new material presented; no additional assignments given.
     ●    Teachers may assign individual student tasks that support progress, completion, or proficiency
          in current class material/assignments.
     ●    Attendance is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for Academic Success/Virtual Support.
              ○ Designed to support students’ Periods 2 and 3 coursework.
              ○ Students may not need to stay in the Google Meets link for the entire 45 minutes if
                  released by the teacher. However, students ARE required to complete any teacher
                  assigned tasks for the day within this class period. Tasks will vary by student
                  need.
              ○ Students should use this time to access teachers for 1:1 conferencing and additional
                  tutoring.

Attendance
Regular school attendance is essential for you to make the most of your education—to benefit from teacher-led
activities, to build each day’s learning on that of the previous day, and to grow as an individual.

Procedure for Excused and Unexcused Absences
In the event of a necessary absence or tardy, parent/guardian must call the main office at 720-423-8740 or bring
a note to the school the morning of the absence. If a student’s absence has not been reported by a
parent/guardian, the school’s automated system will call the primary contact in Infinite Campus for each class
period that a student is absent.

    1. Excused absences are those resulting from temporary illness or injury, physical, mental, or emotional
       disability or condition, religious observance, absences which occur when a student is in custody of a court
       or of a law enforcement authority, and any other absence that has received prior approval by the
       Principal. Absences due to suspension or recommendation of expulsion will be considered excused.

         The notification and explanation of the absence/tardy does not automatically excuse the absence.

    2. Unexcused absences are never acceptable and may result in a student/parent/administrator conference
       and possible disciplinary action. Absences not properly reported by the parent are unexcused.

Makeup Work
Students who are absent excused or unexcused are required to make up all work that was missed.
    ● Students are responsible for requesting and completing any missed assignment
    ● Students are responsible for regular use of Google Classroom for up-to-date information on course
       material and assignments.

Teachers work hard to create engaging lessons and activities for each period. They will not always be able to
provide make up work that is equivalent to what was missed in class. DELTA High School values the instructional
time and is committed to creating an environment where all students will learn. Therefore, no students are to
leave the classroom in the first 10 minutes of class or the last 10 minutes of class. This is to ensure all students
know what they are expected to learn and demonstrate mastery before the class period concludes.
Attendance is essential for getting the full benefit of a DELTA High School education. If students have less than
86.6% attendance in a class, students will be required to meet with a staff member.

Habitually Truant Students
Truancy is an absence from school without the permission of the student’s parent/guardian. According to
Colorado State Law, students who have achieved the age of seven but are under seventeen years of age, who
have four unexcused absences from school in any one month or 10 or more unexcused absences from public
school during any school year are considered to be “habitually truant”. If a student has attendance issues, the
parent/guardian will be contacted to schedule a conference. The school, the parent/guardian, and the student
will work together to determine the reasons for the student’s excessive absences and develop an attendance
plan with the goal of assisting the student to attend school regularly. SB 06-073- Section 5: 22-33-107
It is also the law in Denver:
A student between the ages of 7 and 17 years must attend school. School employees must investigate and report
violations of the state compulsory attendance law. If you are absent without permission from school, or from any
class, you will be considered truant and subject to disciplinary action. Truancy may also result in assessment of
penalty by a court of law against you and/or your parents. Students over the age of 18 with excessive unexcused
absences may be withdrawn from school and prohibited from re- enrolling. (Senate Bill 06-073)

Late Arrival or Tardy to School or Classes
Students will be considered tardy if they are not in the classroom at the start of class. Teachers begin their
lessons as soon as the class starts and students must be ready to participate. Students who arrive late to school
must check in at the main office.
    1. Late to Class - Excused
        ● Students who arrive late to school due to illness, doctor’s appointments, family emergency, or
            religious observance must check in at the main office with a signed note or a phone call from their
            parent/guardian.
        ● The office staff will then issue the student a date/time stamped “Excused Tardy Pass” that the
            student must show the teacher upon entry to class.
        ● A phone call may be made to the parent/guardian to verify notes of habitually tardy students.

    2. Late to Class – Unexcused
       ● Students who arrive late to school (unexcused) will be required check in at the front desk and the
           office staff will issue a student tardy pass, that the student must give the pass to their teacher upon
           entry to class. Although the student is issued a pass to grant entrance into the class, this does not
           mean that the tardy is excused.

    3. Tardy Consequences
       ● Missing any portion of a class is detrimental to a student’s learning experience. A significant number
           of consistent tardies will be subject to disciplinary action on a case-by-case basis.

Attendance Exemptions (ADA)
    ●   Religious Holy Day Observance
            In accordance with the Denver Education Code, students shall be excused from attending school for
            the purpose of observing religious holy days. Excused days of travel under this paragraph shall be
            limited to not more than one day for travel to and from the site where the student will observe holy
            days. Students shall be counted in attendance for Foundation School Program purposes. Teachers
            must provide makeup work for students who have been excused under this paragraph. Students will
            be given a reasonable amount of time to complete makeup work. Please see the make-up work
            policy above.
●   Students Suspended From School
        If you are suspended from school, your absences are excused. You will be required to make up all
        work missed during the days of suspension. All work must be made up. Please see make up work
        policy above.

●   Withdrawals
       If you wish to withdraw from school, the student and their parent must meet with the Principal and
       complete a withdrawal form from the Main Office. You cannot withdraw from school unless you are
       transferring to another school and have documentation thereof. If you do not provide this
       documentation, your student could be considered truant.

●   Early Release
        Parents/guardians are asked to schedule medical and dental appointments during non-school hours.
        Should your child need to be excused early for a doctor’s appointment or other legitimate
        circumstances, the parent/guardian must bring a signed note prior to the appointment detailing the
        time to be excused, reason for leaving, and approximate time of return.

        Upon the parents’/guardians’ arrival in the front office, the student will be called from their
        classroom to the main office. Students will remain in class until the parent comes in to sign them out.
        A text from a parent does not give the student permission to leave the class. The student will be
        excused from school only when a parent/guardian or other authorized individual signs the student
        out. Students leaving early are required to make up any missed work.

●   School Closings
       In the event of inclement weather, Denver Public Schools may close schools at their discretion.
       School closings are announced on all Metro Denver radio and television stations and are posted on
       their website, www.dpsk12.org and social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) It is the responsibility of
       parent(s)/guardian(s) and students to access this information.

        Should we need to close the school early for other emergency reasons, the school office may call
        students’ homes to inform them of a school closing. If the school must close during the school day,
        every attempt will be made to inform the parent(s)/guardian(s) in order to arrange for
        transportation. These calls will be conducted via a mass robo-call delivering pertinent information.
Dress and Grooming Policy
We have opted not to have our scholars wear uniforms. Students are interested in expressing themselves
through dress. In order to ensure students are dressed for learning and to prepare them for professional life after
high school, we have a dress code for DELTA High School. It is our hope that this dress code will allow for
individuality while providing a sense of safety, security, and respect for self and others in our school.

Students will not be able to enter into the building without the following in place:

    1. Shirts / IDs
       ● No spaghetti straps, off the shoulder shirts, revealing bust lines, mid-sections, or backs
       ● No cutoff/ cutout sleeves of shirts that reveal the torso
       ● Shirts cannot display derogatory or offensive language and cannot show pictures of alcohol, drugs,
           weapons, misogynistic material, etc.
       ● Hoodies are permitted; hoods cannot not be worn on your head as this is a safety issue
    2. Pants/Skirts/Shorts
       ● No Sagging pants- underwear must not be seen
       ● Pants must be worn at the waist
       ● Shorts, skirts, or pants must extend farther than the length of the fingertips when arm is beside your
           side or to mid-thigh
       ● No pajamas
    3. Footwear
       ● Shoes are mandatory
       ● No slippers or house shoes are permitted
    4. Hats
       ● Hats, do-rags, or bandanas of any kind may not be worn in the building as this is a safety issue.

Dress Code Violation
The faculty and staff of DELTA High School reserve the sole right to interpret and enforce the student dress code.
    ● Students who violate the dress code will be required to take off the item, if appropriate, or change into
        appropriate clothing provided by the school for the day
    ● Refusal to change or repeated violations of the dress code will be considered defiance under the
        discipline policy and further consequences will ensue. (see discipline matrix at the end of document.)
    ● Exemptions - The Principal, with proper documentation, may grant exemptions for medical or religious
        reasons from any item in the policy
General Building Information
Building Times
Students must be supervised at all times. Students who arrive between 8 and 9am will be directed to the main
office where they may sit quietly and work on classwork to await the opening bell. Unless you are involved in an
extracurricular activity or after school program you should exit the building promptly at dismissal.

Cafeteria
Students may use the cafeteria during breakfast and lunch hours. Food and drink will not be sold at any other
time. Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria from 8:30 to 8:45 daily. Students will have a break for lunch from
12:06 until 12:51. Lunch will be available through the cafeteria between 12:06 and 12:30.

Food may be eaten in the cafeteria. School areas must be kept clean. All food or drinks (outside or cafeteria)
must be consumed before the lunch period ends. Students cannot bring unconsumed food into the classroom.
Students have a 45-minute lunch period daily and should plan appropriately. Water (in bottles) is allowed in
classes, but not in computer labs.

Open Campus for Lunch
DELTA High School has an open campus for lunch. Students are expected to be back at school and in their
classrooms on time. Continued violations could result in revoking this privilege.

Fire, Tornado, and other Emergency Drills
Fire and tornado drills will be held once a month. When a drill (or real emergency) takes place, you will hear a
tremendously loud ringing sound that will continue until the drill is over. In addition, you will note that the
emergency lights will be flashing. Follow your teacher’s instructions to either evacuate the building or take
shelter in the designated area inside (there will be a fire and tornado map posted in each room). Students should
walk quickly and quietly. Stay with your teacher so that he/she can take roll. When the “all clear” is issued by an
administrator, you may return with your teacher into the classroom.

Cell Phone Calls
Parents should not call or text a student’s cell phone during class hours. Cell phone use is prohibited during
instructional time and cell phones are expected to be silent and put away during class hours (unless related to
the lesson plan and approved by the teacher) and will otherwise result in confiscation.

In case of an emergency, parents should call the office and have a message sent to the student. If the news is
serious in nature and may result in an emotional response, please contact the Principal first. We will then provide
them with support services, as needed.
Health Services
If you need to see the nurse, you should first obtain a pass from your teacher and then proceed to the nurse’s
office. You should not go to the clinic between classes. When the nurse is not available please report to the front
desk.

The campus nurse needs to know about students with special needs or medical issues, especially students who:
    ● have chronic illness, such as asthma or diabetes
    ● have been injured or hospitalized
    ● have excessive absences
    ● may be pregnant
    ● are taking medication, especially those using inhalers
    ● have a serious illness, such as mononucleosis

Immunization Policy
Students who have incomplete immunization records are not allowed to attend school unless they complete an
exemption form, which can be found on the Colorado Department of Health and Environment web site
(https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/vaccine-exemptions). If you receive a notice requiring immunization,
you must bring evidence of having received the immunization to the school nurse.

DELTA High School Medication Policy
    ●   Medications must be kept in the nurse’s office. Students are not allowed to keep any medication,
        prescription or over-the-counter, on their person or in their locker.
    ●   Medication must be in the original container, properly labeled with the student’s name, doctor’s name,
        medication, and instructions of administration.
    ●   A medication form must be obtained from the nurse’s office, signed by both parent/guardian and
        physician, and returned to the school nurse.
    ●   You must sign in with the nurse daily when taking your medication.
    ●   Parents are to keep the nurse informed of any changes in medication dosage or schedule.

Accidents
If you are injured or have an accident while at school, you should report to the nurse’s office. If the nurse is not at
school, report to the main office. Once there you will receive assistance and be asked to complete an accident
form, and if the situation is serious, your parents will be notified.

Emergency Medical Treatment
If you have a medical emergency at school or an injury at a school-related activity when your parent cannot be
reached, the school will call 911 and the student may be transported to the hospital. Parents should keep
emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please
contact the school nurse to update any information. The district or school is not responsible for medical expenses
associated with a student’s injury.

School-Based Health Center
The School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs) of Denver Health are continuing on their mission to ensure that
Denver’s children have access to the medical care when they need it. Our network of 17 health centers located in
Denver Public Schools across Denver provides a convenient option for parents and students.

Each medical office is staffed by physician assistants and/or nurse practitioners and health care partners who
treat a number of medical conditions. Each location functions just like a primary care center located inside of a
school. Here are just a few examples of the services that SBHCs can offer:
●   Physical exams/ Well Child Care (Well Child Checks also meet the requirement for sports physicals)
    ●   Immunizations
    ●   Prescriptions
    ●   Acute Injury and illness care
    ●   Care for common chronic concerns such as asthma, diabetes, and depression

This unique service provides medical and mental health care to DPS students at NO COST or LOW COST and also
helps families enroll in health insurance programs if needed. All DPS students are eligible to receive services.

All children need is their DPS identification number and a signed parental consent to start receiving vital primary
care services such as vaccinations, physicals, and care for illnesses. Appointments are strongly encouraged and
can usually be made for the same day or next day. For locations and more information visit our website at
DenverHealth.org/SBHC or call 303.602.8958.

The closest clinic to DELTA High School is at Place Bridge Academy.
Report Cards/Progress Report/Conferences
Grade Reports
Printed progress reports of your academic progress will be issued to on a weekly basis during each nine- week
period. This report will include the student’s attendance.

You will receive a report card, which includes credits earned at the end of every nine-week grading period.
Parents are encouraged to attend Parent Teacher Conferences. The dates are on the school calendar.

The school calendar lists dates for progress and grade reporting. If you have questions, contact the Principal or
School Counselor.

Parents and students will have 24/7 access to the gradebook in Infinite Campus through Parent Portal and are
encouraged to use the Parent Portal for the most up-to-date information on grades and assignments.

Grading System Philosophy
The grading system at DELTA High School is process and product based. This means all subjects are taught within
the framework of demonstration of mastery of standards and competencies as well as the process by which
mastery was attained. These philosophies strike at the heart of the content areas and explicitly outline what
students should know and be able to do. Teachers have designed units, lessons, and assessments; all with the
goal of supporting students in their development of flexible thinking within these essential standards and
competencies.

Grading will be consistent using two grading categories (product and process). Product grades are worth
approximately 60% and process grades are worth approximately 40% of the total grade.

Product grades refer to the demonstration of learning/knowledge. Examples of product include tests, quizzes,
projects, and homework.

Process grades refer to the process of learning. Examples of process grades are homework, do-nows, exit slips, in-
class assignments, participation, attendance, group work, and timeliness of submission.

                                        Percent Range        Letter Grade

                                             90 -100               A

                                              80-89                B

                                              70-79                C

                                              60-69                D

                                             0 – 59                F

Grade Changes
An examination or course grade is final and may not be changed unless the grade is arbitrary, erroneous, or not
consistent with school or district grading policy. Faculty members must initiate all grade changes and the
Principal must approve any changes. The Principal or counselor will not arbitrarily change grades issued by faculty
members. Grades may only be changed at the school where they were issued.
Grade appeals by the parent must be addressed to the faculty member and the Principal first. If the parent
believes that the faculty member has violated DPS or school policies and procedures regarding grading, and the
faculty member and/or Principal do not settle the appeal, the parent may appeal to the instructional
superintendent.

Requests for Student Records/Transcripts
All requests for transcripts must be made to either the main office or the counselor. Teachers should not print
transcripts. Teachers may print student schedules, if needed.
Graduation Requirements
Classes of 2021 and beyond Graduation Requirements

Starting with our Class of 2021 and every graduating class after that, we have new graduation requirements. The
new requirements are less about grades earned for time spent in a classroom, and more about students
demonstrating they are truly prepared for the world after high school.

In order to earn a DPS diploma, students will be expected to complete three components:
    ● ICAP
    ● Coursework
    ● Competency

ICAP - Individual Career and Academic Plans
Students will continue to work with their counselors, teachers and families to develop, update and complete
their Individual Career and Academic Plans (ICAPs), a process which starts as early as the sixth grade.

Through this personalized career and academic planning tool, students are empowered to evaluate all aspects of
their path to college and career, including goal setting, college opportunities, academic planning, financial
literacy and financial aid, and 21st-century skills. This framework creates an attainable roadmap for students, so
they are able to visualize how exploring possibilities and achieving milestones translates to their future college
and career aspirations. At the end of their senior year, they will turn in the completed plan to fulfill the ICAP
requirement.

Coursework
Students will engage in a rigorous course of study and required to complete 24 units of course credit across an
assortment of content areas to prepare them for acceptance requirements at postsecondary institutions.

The coursework required includes the following:

    ●   4 units of English language arts
    ●   4 units of mathematics
    ●   3 units of science
    ●   3 units of social studies
    ●   1 unit of physical education
    ●   1 unit of arts or eligible Career Technical Education (CTE)
    ●   8 units of approved electives

Competency
In order to graduate from DPS, every student will demonstrate competency in English, math and/or career
readiness by completing one or more items in the competency menu.
    ● ACCUplacer
    ● AP Exams
    ● Concurrent Enrollment
    ● DPS Capstone
    ● International Baccalaureate (IB)
    ● SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
    ● ACT Work Keys National Career Readiness Certificate
    ● ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)
More information regarding Graduation Requirements can be found here: https://collegeandcareer.dpsk12.org/

Grade Level Classifications

                                 Grade Level Classification of Students

                      6 units                                             Sophomore

                      12 units                                              Junior

                      18 units                                              Senior

                      24 units                                        Award Diploma
Student Code of Conduct
Student Discipline
DELTA High School will follow and use the DPS Policy JK-R Discipline Matrix and Ladder (please see page 24).

Under the Influence
Any students who are suspected to be under the influence of any illegal substances will be sent to the nurse to be
assessed. If the student is determined to be under the influence, a parent or guardian will be required to come
and pick up student and bring them home for the remainder of the day. The school may recommend counseling
as a next step.

Suspension
Suspension is used for level 3 and 4 offenses. In the event that you are suspended, you cannot return to the
campus until the suspension is completed. If you arrive on campus during the term of suspension you shall be
treated as a trespasser. A reinstatement conference with the parent/guardian and Principal is required before
the student is allowed to return to school.

Expulsion
You can be removed from school for certain level 4 offenses and for repeated and chronic infractions. Expulsions
are for the duration of a semester only, but can be for a full year for the most serious violations. Students
submitted for expulsion are entitled to a hearing before the district expulsion officer.

Cheating and Plagiarizing
Cheating or plagiarizing of any kind is not permitted at DELTA High School. This means that you cannot use
deceit, trickery, or fraud on an assignment or a test. It could also include, but is not limited to: using written
notes on a test, giving or receiving hand signals, looking at another person’s test, allowing another student to
copy one’s answer, take someone else’s work, ideas, or words, and use them as if they were your own.

The first time a student is caught plagiarizing or cheating, the parent will be notified and teachers will provide
students with an alternative assignment to prove mastery. Teachers will determine the time and date that
students must complete the assignment. The teacher will document the event in Infinite Campus (IC). Students
will have the chance to earn full product points and half of the process points.

Habitual cheating or plagiarizing will result in the following further action:
   ● Second offense (with any teacher)
            o Conference with student, parent, teacher and administrator
            o Students will get an alternative assignment and cannot score higher than a 70% on their product
                grade and a zero on their process grade
            o The offense is documented in IC
   ● Third offense (with any teacher)
            o Conference with student, parent, teacher, and Principal
            o Students will not receive an alternative assignment and will receive zero points for both product
                and process grades
            o 1 day out of school suspension
            o The offense is documented in IC

Hazing
Hazing is against state law and is not permitted at DELTA High School. Hazing is defined as persecuting or
torturing somebody in a subordinate position.
Loitering/Unauthorized persons on campus
Only students of the school, parents of the students, employees of the District and persons having business with
schools are allowed on campus during normal hours. Visitors must have passes, and as a general rule, friends that
do not attend DELTA High School are not allowed on campus. Special exceptions may be made in extreme cases,
but these must be cleared with the Principal in advance. Students are not to sit in parked cars on campus, vacant
classrooms or other unsupervised areas.

Smoking
All of the Denver Public schools are smoke-free, therefore smoking is strictly forbidden on campus. Any student
smoking, dipping, chewing, or found in the possession of a tobacco or drug product will be subject to municipal
fines and disciplinary action.

Public Displays of Romantic Affection
Public display of romantic affection or engaging in sexual contact is not allowed. Any public display of romantic
affection will result in being told to separate and go to class.

Threats or Bullying
Verbal threats or bullying of any kind, including online, by students to a teacher or other students are not
tolerated and are taken very seriously. If someone has threatened you in any manner, you are required to report
this to the Principal. Confirmed threats or bullying will result in a suspension.

Weapons
Weapons, tasers, stun gun, explosives, and pyrotechnics of any kind or in any form are strictly prohibited on
campus. Guns, including pellet guns and replicas of firearms (functional or non-functional) are strictly prohibited.
The District’s “zero tolerance” policy will be strictly enforced.
Discipline Ladder
Level A - Teacher/Student

• The student is provided an opportunity to tell his/her version of the incident.
• The teacher or designated staff counsels with the student. • One or more interventions are initiated as appropriate.
• Any interventions will be documented.

Level B - Teacher/Student/Parent

• The student is provided an opportunity to tell his/her version of the incident. • The teacher or designated staff notifies the student's
  parent/guardian.
• The teacher counsels with the student and, if possible, the parent/guardian.
• One or more interventions are initiated as appropriate.
• Any interventions will be documented.

Level C - Teacher/Support Staff/Student/Parent

• If intervention at Level B has not been successful, the teacher or designated staff can determine whether to involve a social worker,
nurse, guidance counselor, psychologist, or any other member of the school's support staff.
• The student is provided an opportunity to tell his/her version of the incident.
• The parent/guardian is notified.
• The teacher and any member of the support staff who has been involved will conference with the student and, if possible, the
parent/guardian to provide support for correcting the misbehavior. If possible, all of the student's teachers will be included in the
conference.
• One or more interventions are initiated as appropriate.
• Any referrals or interventions will be documented.

Level D - Administrative Level Referral

• The student is referred to the appropriate administrator or designated staff person.
• Documentation of the steps taken to intervene and change the student's behavior is provided.
• The student is provided an opportunity to tell his/her version of the incident.
• The administrator or designated staff person schedules a conference with the parent/guardian and determines if further consultation
with support personnel is necessary.
• One or more interventions are initiated as appropriate.
• If necessary, in-school suspension of up to three days may be utilized (see Section 6-2 of this policy for more details).
• School officials should consider developing a behavior intervention plan for the student (in some cases, such a plan might be mandatory;
see Section 5-3 of this policy).
• Referrals and interventions will be documented.

Level E - Suspension Options

• The student is referred to the appropriate administrator or designated staff person.
• Documentation of the steps taken to intervene and change the student's behavior is provided.
• The student is provided an opportunity to tell his/her version of the incident.
• The administrator or designated staff person schedules a conference with the parent/guardian and determines if further consultation
with support personnel is necessary.
• One or more interventions are initiated as appropriate.
• If previous interventions have not been successful, the principal or principal's designee may consider the use of an in-school suspension
of 1-3 days or a one-day out-of-school suspension (see Sections 6-2, 6-3, and 6-4 of this policy regarding the use of suspensions) for
students grades 4 through 12.
• School officials should consider developing a behavior intervention plan for the student (in some cases, such a plan might be mandatory;
see Section 5-3 of this policy).
• Upon return to school after suspension, further steps to encourage positive behavior are to be considered.

Level F - Additional Suspension Options

• The student is referred to the appropriate administrator or designated staff person.
• Documentation of the steps taken to intervene and change the student's behavior is provided.
• The student is provided an opportunity to tell his/her version of the incident.
• The administrator or designated staff person schedules a conference with the parent/guardian and determines if further consultation
with support personnel is necessary.
• One or more interventions are initiated as appropriate.
• If previous interventions have not been successful, the principal or principal's designee may issue an additional 1-3 day in- school
suspension and/or a 1-3 day out-of-school suspension (see Sections 6-2, 6-3, and 6-4 of this policy regarding the use of suspensions) for
students in grades 4 through 12.
• School officials should consider developing a behavior intervention plan for the student (in some cases, such a plan might be mandatory,
see Section 5-3 of this policy).
• Persistent misconduct can result in the student being declared "habitually disruptive," for which a student in grades 4 through 12 will be
recommended for expulsion.
• Upon return to school after suspension, further steps to encourage positive behavior are to be considered.

General Campus Policies
Visitors
DELTA High School welcomes and encourages any parent or guardian visits that do not disrupt the education of
our students. To assure the safety and well-being of all students and staff, all visitors must sign-in and receive a
visitor’s badge in exchange for a picture ID. Any visitor who is found in the building without authorization and/or
without a visitor pass will be directed to the main office. All visitors are expected to abide by the school’s rules
and core values in all their interactions with faculty, staff, administration, and other parent/guardian and
students. It is not appropriate for students to bring friends or siblings to school. All visitors are asked to turn off
the ringers on their cell phones when inside of the building.

Postings & Commerce
No signs, notices, pictures, photographs, films, or any other visual or auditory materials of any kind are to be
posted, placed, distributed, circulated, or sold around the school without the explicit permission of the Principal.
Students may not sell any articles or food on school property without the permission of the Principal.

They may not make a collection of money or materials for their own purposes or for an organization to which
they belong to outside of the school without prior permission of the Principal.
Student Information
ID Cards
You are required to have your DELTA High School identification badge at all times. The cost of a replacement ID is
$5.

Hall Passes
Students traveling in the hallways during school hours must have a hall pass. These are issued by the classroom
teacher, administrator, or other staff members. Teachers should not allow students to leave class during the first
10 minutes or last 10 minutes of class. Please take care of your personal needs during passing periods.

Students given permission to leave the room are required to have:
    ● Hall pass issued by the classroom teacher
    ● Teacher’s name and room number
    ● The only acceptable hall passes are approved DELTA passes.

Lost and Found
The lost and found is located in the main office. If you find an item that is not yours, please turn it into the main
office. Likewise if you have lost an item, you may go to the main office to see if it has been turned in.

Free or Reduced Lunches
Some students may be eligible for free or reduced lunches. All students are required to fill out the application
whether they qualify for free or reduced lunches or not. The forms will be processed, and if you are eligible you
may receive lunch assistance

Fees
Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided at no charge to you. However, you are
expected to provide your own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks. You may be required to pay certain other
fees or deposits, including but not limited to:
    ● Costs for materials for a class project that you will keep.
    ● Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular
        activities.
    ● Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.
    ● Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.
    ● Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that become your property.
    ● Fees for lost or damaged textbooks.
    ● Senior Fee $60 - covers cost of graduation ceremony and supplies,
        as well as diploma printing and diploma cover
    ● Field trips
Driver’s License Eligibility Forms
According to Denver Law, anyone under the age of 18 must show proof of enrollment and attendance in school
to the Denver Department of Public Safety before they are allowed to get a learner’s permit,
driver’s license, or renew a driver’s license. This form, referred to as the DEA form, is available in the main office.
To be eligible, a student must be currently enrolled, must have been enrolled at least 80 days in the previous
semester, and have met the attendance requirements for each class in which he/ she is enrolled. Eligibility to get
a student parking permit requires proof a valid driver’s license as well as proof of insurance.

Student Records
Your school records are confidential and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record
is maintained online for each student from the time you enter the district until the time you withdraw or
graduate. This record stays with you from school to school.

By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is
under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied
access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.

The Principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students. The Superintendent is the custodian of all
records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during school hours upon
completion of the written request form. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests
for explanation and interpretation of the records. If circumstances prevent a parent or eligible student from
inspecting the records, the district will either provide a copy of the requested records, or make other
arrangements for the parent or student to review the requested records.

Copies of records can be requested in the main office. Making your request in advance can help you avoid
unnecessary waiting. Records will always be furnished within 24 hours of an approved request.
Monthly RTD Passes
Passes will be given at the school’s discretion. Students who may qualify for passes include:
    ● Must live minimum of 2.5 miles from school AND must live in Denver
    ● Maintain 86.6% or higher attendance each month
             o If attendance drops below 86.6% for the previous month, you will not be eligible to receive a
                 monthly pass.
             o Your attendance must improve to 86.6% to earn the next month’s pass.
    ● Demonstrate hardship/need
    ● Students cannot get more than one monthly bus pass per month.
    ● Students will not be issued an additional pass if their pass is lost or stolen

Campus Security
The campus security officers enforce the district and school rules while promoting good behavior, positive public
relations and a rapport of trust between the officers and our school community.

The security officers can request the Denver Police Department, in accordance with the Denver Code of Criminal
Procedures, to issue citations for offenses and regulate the traffic in the streets. They may also enforce the city
ordinances for the violation of the day/time curfew. Tickets may be given for persons in possession of
contraband. Tickets for other offences may be issued as well.

The security officers ensure the safety of all students. The security officers are expected to enforce the school’s
rules and procedures. All students are expected to comply with their requests.
Handbook Acknowledgement and Agreement
       We have received a copy of the DELTA High School Student Handbook for the 2020-2021
school year. We agree to read its contents. I understand that my child and I are expected to abide
by the rules and regulations of DELTA High School and the Denver Public School District. I
understand that not reading the Student Handbook will not exempt me or my student from the
expectations expressed in the Student Handbook.
       Hemos recibido una copia del Manual del Estudiante de Delta High School para el ano
escolar 2020-2021. Acordamos leer su contenido. Entiendo que se espera que mi hijo y yo
cumplamos con las reglas y regulaciones de Delta High School y el Distrito de Escuelas Publicas de
Denver. Entiendo que no leer el Manual del Estudiante no me eximirá ni a mi ni a mi estudiante de
las expectativas expresadas en el Manual del Estudiante.
         Technology Parent Permission Form and User Agreement
       As a parent or guardian of a student at Delta High School, I have read the information in
Delta’s student handbook about the appropriate use of computers at Delta High School and I
understand this agreement will be kept on file at the school. Questions should be directed to the
Principal for clarification.
       Como padre o tutor de un estudiante en Delta High School, he leido la informacion en el
Manual de Estudiante de Delta sobre el uso apropiado de las computadoras en Delta High School y
entiendo que este acuerdo se archivara en la escuela. Las preguntas deben ser dirigidas al Director
para su aclaracion.

    ❏ Yes, my child may use the Internet while at school according to the rules outlined. Si, mi
         hijo puede usar Internet mientras esta en la escuela de acuerdo con las reglas descritas.
    ❏ No, I would prefer that my child not use the internet while at school. No, perferiria que mi
         hijo no use Internet mientras esta en la escuela.

______________________________________________     ______________________________________________   ___________________________
Parent Name (print)                              Signature                                           Date

______________________________________________    ______________________________________________    ____________________________
Student Name (print)                              Signature                                         Date

                            All forms should be turned in to the main office
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