Parent & Student Handbook
La Verne Science & Technology Charter School
Be Safe, Be Respectful, & Be Responsible
2025-2026
Parent & Student Handbook
Dr. Sergio C. Chavez, Principal
July 15, 2025
Dear La Verne Science Charter Parents,
I want to introduce myself and welcome you to another exciting year at La Verne Science and Technology Charter School, home of the Mighty Lions!
My name is Dr. Sergio Chavez and it is my highest honor and privilege to join the team and serve the students and parents of La Verne Charter. I bring over 35 years of educational experience and am so excited to be returning home to Pomona Unified where I began serving as an educator. I hold a Doctorate in Education and I am fully bilingual and bicultural. I also have a Science background, which will serve our school well.
I am grateful for our wonderful team of teachers and support personnel who work tirelessly to make our school a safe place for all children to learn. This year, your children will learn to prepare for their path to college…No Excuses! Our teachers understand the enormous responsibility they have in making this a reality for ALL students. We are fully committed to ensuring that every single student reaches proficiency in English Language Arts and Math. The path to college begins in preschool. For this reason, we will work collaboratively across all grade levels to maintain an effective instructional program that will prepare every child for a four-year university, if that is what he/she chooses. Success for ALL students is guaranteed when we establish a culture of universal achievement. La Verne Charter teachers will promote this culture of universal achievement by embracing the following core beliefs:
- All Students Can Learn at High Levels! All Lions Will Be Prepared To Go To College…No
Excuses!
- Active Parent Engagement is Key to Student Success!
- Failure, Negativity, and Deficit Thinking are Not Acceptable!
- Teachers and Staff Lovingly Serve All Students!
- Effective Direct First Instruction is the First Line of Intervention!
- Formative Assessment Data will Guide our Instruction.
We are committed to Excellence, but we cannot accomplish this vision without your support. The strength of our partnership will help our students overcome any obstacle that may arise. Your children need your support and encouragement to come to school on time and ready to learn every single day! They need to know that their parent(s), guardian(s), and their teacher(s) have a genuine and uncompromising interest in their learning. We must work together to enable all our children to develop perfect attendance, excellent behavior, strong study habits, and a laser-like focus on learning. These essential qualities and a deep knowledge of self will prepare them to succeed in college and beyond.
Together we will hold all our students to the highest academic and social standards…No Excuses! Only by working together can we eliminate bullying from our campus. We ask that you become an active participant in your children’s education. We encourage all parents to participate in our parent meetings (AAPAC, ELAC, Coffee with the Principal, and School Site Council) and events (Back to School Night, Open House, among others). Dates and times of parent meetings and school events will be forthcoming. We have an open-door policy to meet with teachers or me to discuss the academic progress of your child.
We look forward to a successful school year full of exciting challenges and tremendous growth as a true community of learners. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns at (909) 397-4684. We promise that you will experience sizzling customer service and a genuine concern for the academic success of your child. Thank you in advance for the sacred trust you bestow on us with the education of your child and your unending support. Attached you will find important dates and events for the new school year. Please take a moment to read it and feel free to call us if you have any questions.
Respectfully,
Sergio C. Chávez, Ed.D.
Principal
La Verne Science & Technology Charter School
July 15, 2025
Estimados padres de La Verne Science Charter:
Quiero presentarme y darles la bienvenida a otro año emocionante en la Escuela Chárter de Ciencia y Tecnología La Verne, sede de los Mighty Lions.
Me llamo Dr. Sergio Chávez y es mi gran honor y privilegio unirme al equipo y servir a los estudiantes y padres de La Verne Charter. Cuento con más de 35 años de experiencia educativa, incluyendo mi regreso al Distrito Escolar Unificado de Pomona, donde comencé como educador. Tengo un Doctorado en Educación y soy completamente bilingüe y bicultural. Además, tengo formación en Ciencias, lo cual será muy útil para nuestra escuela.
Agradezco a nuestro maravilloso equipo de maestros y personal de apoyo que trabaja incansablemente para hacer de nuestra escuela un lugar seguro donde todos los niños puedan aprender. Este año, sus hijos aprenderán a preparar su camino a la universidad... ¡Sin excusas! Nuestros maestros comprenden la enorme responsabilidad que tienen para que esto sea una realidad para TODOS los estudiantes. Estamos totalmente comprometidos a garantizar que cada estudiante alcance el nivel competente en Lengua y Literatura Inglesas y Matemáticas. El camino a la universidad comienza en preescolar. Por esta razón, trabajaremos en colaboración con todos los grados para mantener un programa educativo eficaz que prepare a cada niño para una universidad de cuatro años si así lo desea. El éxito de TODOS los estudiantes está garantizado cuando establecemos una cultura de logro universal. Los maestros de La Verne Charter promoverán esta cultura de logro universal adoptando los siguientes principios fundamentales:
- ¡Todos los estudiantes pueden aprender a un alto nivel! Todos los Leones estarán preparados para ir a la universidad... ¡Sin excusas!
- ¡La participación activa de los padres es clave para el éxito estudiantil!
- ¡El fracaso, la negatividad y el pensamiento deficitario son inaceptables!
- ¡Los maestros y todo el personal atiende con cariño a todos los estudiantes!
- ¡La instrucción directa eficaz es la primera línea de intervención!
- Los datos de la evaluación formativa guiarán nuestra instrucción.
Nos hemos comprometido con la excelencia, pero no podemos lograr esta visión sin su apoyo. La fortaleza de nuestra alianza ayudará a nuestros estudiantes a superar cualquier obstáculo que pueda surgir. ¡Sus hijos necesitan su apoyo y motivación para llegar a la escuela puntualmente y listos para aprender todos los días! Necesitan saber que sus padres, tutores y maestros tienen un interés genuino e inquebrantable en su aprendizaje. Debemos trabajar juntos para que todos nuestros niños desarrollen una asistencia impecable, un comportamiento excelente, hábitos de estudio sólidos y una concentración total en el aprendizaje. Estas cualidades esenciales y un profundo conocimiento de sí mismos los preparará para tener éxito en la universidad y más allá.
Juntos, exigiremos a todos nuestros estudiantes los más altos estándares académicos y sociales… ¡Sin excusas! Solo trabajando juntos podremos eliminar el acoso escolar en nuestro campus. Les pedimos que participen activamente en la educación de sus hijos. Animamos a todos los padres a participar en nuestras reuniones de padres (AAPAC, ELAC, Café con el Director y Consejo Escolar) y eventos (Noche de Regreso a Clases, Casa Abierta, entre otros). Próximamente se anunciarán las fechas y horarios de las reuniones de padres y eventos escolares. Tenemos una política de puertas abiertas para reunirnos con los maestros o conmigo y hablar sobre el progreso académico de su hijo.
Esperamos un año escolar exitoso, lleno de emocionantes desafíos y un gran crecimiento como una verdadera comunidad de estudiantes. Si tiene alguna pregunta o inquietud, no dude en contactarme al (909) 397-4684. Le prometemos que disfrutará de un servicio al cliente excepcional y una preocupación genuina por el éxito académico de su hijo/a. Gracias de antemano por la sagrada confianza que deposita en nosotros con la educación de su hijo/a y su constante apoyo. Adjunto encontrará fechas y eventos importantes para el nuevo año escolar. Por favor, tómese un momento para leerlo y no dude en llamarnos si tiene alguna pregunta.
Respetuosamente,
Sergio C. Chávez, Ed.D.
Principal
La Verne Science & Technology Charter School
GENERAL INFORMATION
SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS
Office hours are from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. each day. Keeping children safe is our priority; therefore, children should NOT arrive earlier than 7:35 a.m. or remain on campus later than 3:15 p.m. unless they are participating in the TLC or other after-school programs as there is no supervision before or after the designated times.
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS
To drop off and pick up students, use the marked white zones (crosswalks) along La Verne Avenue and please follow all traffic laws, signs, and requests from Campus Supervisors to ensure a smooth flow. If you leave your car unattended in the white zone, you may be ticketed. Our parking lot is limited in size; while there are a few designated visitor and handicapped spots, the remaining spaces are reserved exclusively for staff parking.
Please do not drop off or pick up students in the staff parking lot as that is not safe due to moving vehicles and arriving/departing buses. The City of Pomona provides a crossing guard on La Verne Avenue for students who walk to school. Students must be picked up promptly upon dismissal at 2:26 PM for primary or 2:55 PM for upper.
STUDENT SAFETY IS A TOP PRIORITY
Campus opens at 7:35 AM Monday through Thursday and at 8:35 AM on Fridays. For their safety, students should not arrive before these times unless they are enrolled in the before-school care program, as supervision is not available. Once the bell rings, students will line up on the blacktop, where their teacher will greet them and escort them to the classroom.
TELEPHONE USE
If you need to speak to your child’s teacher, reach out via Remind. The teacher will return your call and/or respond to your message as soon as possible as calls to the classrooms disrupt instructional time. The office will refer messages to your child that are for emergency purposes. All other messages will be placed in the teacher’s mailbox before lunch recess. Education Code #32212 requires that governing boards adopt policies to minimize classroom interruptions. “Interruptions and distractions shall be controlled and avoided where possible to ensure that teachers can dedicate classroom time to the instruction of students”.
USE OF SCHOOL OFFICE TELEPHONE
The office telephone is available to the children for emergencies only. Lunch brought into the office should be marked with the student’s name and room number. Before leaving home, communicate with your child that they will be allowed to come to the office during morning recess or their lunch period to pick up items/lunches. To minimize classroom interruptions, the office staff will not disrupt classroom instruction to inform students to pick up items from the office.
VISITING THE SCHOOL
Parents are welcome and encouraged to visit the school and become acquainted with their child’s teacher and classroom. All visitors/volunteers must sign in and pick up a visitor’s badge before going to classrooms. Signing in and out of our log will let us know who is on campus at all times which will help keep our students and staff safe. Also, in the event of a major disaster, we will be able to account for all individuals on our campus. The California Penal Code states, that “persons not employed with the District must check into the office and sign the Visitor’s Log before entering the school site. The following visitation policies are approved by the Board of Education:
- Parents/adult visitors should call the school office to make an appointment for a visit at least one day (24 hours) in advance.
- Classroom visitations will be arranged with the school site and teacher at an agreeable time. Class visits are scheduled for 30 minutes.
- To ensure student safety, ALL PERSONS ENTERING THE SCHOOL CAMPUS MUST VISIT THE SCHOOL OFFICE, show identification, regardless of the time, and wear the “Visitor’ sticker generated by the new security system RAPTOR, while on campus.
- For subsequent discussion regarding the visitation, a conference may be arranged with the teacher after school to avoid disruption to classroom instruction.
RELEASE OF STUDENT TO PARENT OR AUTHORIZED PERSON
Please report to the school office, sign the “Student Release Register” and a call to the classroom will notify the teacher that the student is to report to the office to be released. A child will be released to a parent or authorized person only; that is, an adult designated by the responsible parent on the Emergency Card on file at the school. All authorized individuals must sign the student out, and provide picture identification. Individuals who are not listed on the Emergency Card will NOT be able to sign students out. You may NOT call on the phone or send a written note adding or giving permission for a student to be released to someone else. Please keep in mind, that there may be a delay in locating your child if they are being picked up during recess, during enrichment activities, or the last half hour of the day. NOTE: No one under the age of 18 may sign out a student. Make sure that the individuals listed on your emergency card are at least 18 years of age. Identification must be shown at the time students are signed out.
VOLUNTEERS
We value our volunteers and encourage parent participation! If you are interested in volunteering, first, speak to your child's teacher, and second, stop by our school office to pick up a Volunteer Application. This needs to be done on an ANNUAL basis. Many of the steps take several weeks to process at the district level, so it's best if it's done early in the school year. Parent volunteers play a vital role in the overall academic development of students. Volunteering is an excellent way to be involved in your child’s learning experience, whether working in an individual classroom, for school events, or assisting in the library. If you would like to help in the classroom and be able to attend field trips with your child, please stop by the office and fill out a volunteer application form. A current TB test and picture ID (driver’s license or passport) is required. Upon completion, the district will obtain a background clearance and notify you of the fingerprinting process. The whole process will take about 4 to 6 weeks, so it is better to do this at the beginning of the school year.
PTA
We are proud to have a PTA (Parent Teacher Association). All family members, relatives, and friends can join during our membership drive that will be held in August/September. However, if you miss this window, you can join anytime. Stop by the front office to pick up a membership form. This is a great way to become involved and support your school and child. We encourage you to become involved and volunteer for one of the many school events and/or activities during the school year.
ABSENCES/TARDINESS
Punctuality and Good Attendance Requirements: We are required by law to account for all absences and tardies. To report a child’s absence from school, please call the school at (909) 397-4684. If the absence is not verified by phone, please send a written note with your child on the day of their return to school. Homework will be given if a student is out for more than 2 days. Please provide a 24-hour notice for homework requests. Being on time reduces classroom disruption, minimizes loss of instruction, enhances positive self-esteem, and promotes good work ethics. Students who arrive at school at 8:10 a.m. (or after) are tardy and must report to the school office for a late slip. Continuance of excessive truancies, absences, and tardies will be referred to the district School Attendance Review Team (S.A.R.T.) If your child’s attendance does not improve, a referral to the School Attendance Review Board (S.A.R.B.), which is made up of representatives from the school, district, community agencies, and the District Attorney’s office. SARB meets to review chronic cases and issues subpoenas for the student and parents or guardians to attend a hearing. Parent Reminder: It is the responsibility of parents to ensure children attend school daily and arrive to school on time. If possible schedule doctor appointments on Wednesday after 1:25 PM or when school is not in session.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS TO MAKE UP ABSENCES: Short-Term Independent Study – Request one week in advance Parent/guardians may make a signed written request for a Short-Term Independent Study Contract for their child when the student will be absent (1 day and a maximum of 14 days) from school due to emergency, illness, or family vacation. All requests for a Short Term Independent Study Contract must be submitted to the Office Assistant in the office no later than 5 school days before the first day of absence. The written request must include the dates of the absence and the reason(s) for the absence.
STANDARDIZED DRESS CODE
La Verne Science and Technology Charter School is committed to keeping our staff and students safe. Therefore, we have a Standardized Dress Code that supports a positive and effective educational environment. All students must wear RED or Black COLLARED shirts, KHAKI uniform pants, shorts, skorts or skirts. JEANS, LEGGINGS, OR SWEATS ARE NOT PERMITTED. School Spirit Shirts can be worn every Friday. The last Friday of every month is designated as “Free Dress” where students may wear appropriate clothes of their choice and safe shoes. Help your child get ready for school by laying out clean uniform clothes the night before school. The “Standardized Dress Code Guidelines” applies to Uniform wear, Spirit wear, and Free Dress days and is listed below to provide you with more detailed information.
Shirts/Blouses
- All students will wear red or black collared shirts (with logo/mascot or plain).
- Midriff shirts showing the abdomen, spaghetti strap/strapless (unless worn with a cover), see-through or fishnet fabrics, halter tops, and off-the-shoulder or low-cut tops may not be worn.
- School Spirit Shirts may ONLY be worn on Fridays.
Pants/Shorts/Skirts/Skorts
- Khaki (tan) pants, shorts, skirts, or skorts that are not “too big” are permissible.
- Clothes shall conceal underwear at all times. Skirts or shorts shorter than mid-thigh are prohibited.
- Baggy, oversized, or too-tight pants/shorts are not allowed as they are not safe.
- Biker shorts under skirts/dresses are recommended.
Sweatshirts/Jackets
- Sweatshirts/jackets may be worn one size larger. Label student’s names on tags.
- Sweatshirts/jackets with wording that references alcohol, tobacco, illegal substances, profanity, violence, or gang-affiliated logos or symbols are not allowed.
- Students may not wear hoodies indoors or when the weather is hot.
Shoes – Safety is First!
- Rubber soles or tennis shoes are required so that students can participate in all activities safely.
- Shoes must be fastened correctly, buckled, or laces tied securely to ensure safety.
- Primary students, who do not know how to tie their shoes, should use Velcro-fastened shoes until they learn how to tie their shoe laces. (Please teach your child to tie their shoelaces beginning in Kinder.)
- Crocs, open-toe shoes, sandals, flip-flops, high heels, Heely roller shoes, or backless shoes are not allowed due to safety.
Jewelry/Accessories/Hair/Make-Up
- Earrings should not be larger than a “nickel” size. (Dangling earrings, wallets, or keychains are not permitted)
- Necklaces, bracelets, etc. must be worn securely fastened and not too long for safety reasons.
- Jewelry or accessories that symbolize drug or alcohol use or those expressing derogatory statements may not be worn or brought to school.
- Studded bracelets or belts are not safe and, therefore, not permitted.
- Hats can be worn outdoors as long as they do not have wording that references alcohol, tobacco, illegal substances, profanity, violence, or gang-affiliated logos or symbols.
- Make-up that is age-appropriate can be worn.
- Long or pointy nails are not safe, they are not allowed at the elementary level.
HEALTH OFFICE/CONCERNS
Our Health Office is staffed by a health assistant Monday through Friday and a school nurse for one day each week. Together with the office staff, your child’s health needs will be taken care of. If students become ill at school, they will be taken to the Health Office and parents will be notified. In case of an emergency, the school nurse will be contacted, if not on campus, parent will be notified, and, if necessary, 911 will be called. Your child’s health and safety is a priority! For this reason, we must have current telephone numbers where parents can be reached. We should also have a doctor’s name and a second contact where the student can be taken if we are unable to reach parents. Students will never be sent home alone. Students cannot be released to an adult who is not listed on the emergency card.
Accidents and Illness: If students are involved in accidents or become ill in the classroom, they must report it immediately to their teacher. If students are involved in accidents while on the playground, they need to report at once to the campus supervisors so that they can be escorted to the Health Office, if necessary. Every effort will be made to prevent situations that could lead to injuries during school hours. Reminder: No one under the age of 18 may sign out a student. Identification must be shown at the time students are signed out.
Medication: Students may not take any medication at school without signed authorization from a doctor and a parent. All medications will be kept in the Health Office. Medications will be given at school under the following conditions:
- A written order from a physician and written consent by the parent must be on file in the Health Office. Forms can be obtained in the school office.
- The medication must be in a prescription-labeled bottle as ordered by the physician. It should contain only the necessary medication for school.
- All such medication must be kept in the Health Office in a locked cupboard. Refrigerated medications must be stored in the Health Office refrigerator.
- No child may take any type of medication (prescription or over-the-counter medication) on his/her own.
Vision and Hearing Tests: State Mandated vision and hearing screenings are given to all Kindergarten, second, and fifth-grade students. Screenings are conducted by District nurses and Western University Optometrist. If the school notes any vision or hearing problems, parents will be notified via referral that needs to be taken to the primary care provider or outside optometrist.
SAFETY FOR LA VERNE LIONS COMES FIRST!
The safety and well-being of our “Lions,” is our #1 concern and highest priority. We can never be complacent about safety issues. What we can do is make sure that we have policies and procedures in place to ensure the safety of all students. La Verne has a Safe School Plan which will be reviewed, revised, and approved this school year by our School Site Council, Board, and presented to different parent/guardian committees.
The California State Department of Education lists the components of a Safe School Environment as follows:
- Conveys an atmosphere in which members of the school community feel comfortable.
- Encourages open lines of communication among school personnel, students, and parents and provides a well-established system for students and parents to report problems.
- Clearly defines rules for students’ conduct and enforces them consistently and equitably.
- Has discipline policies known by all, that cover issues such as violence, drugs, and alcohol and enhance ethnic and cultural relations.
- Invites and sustains visible parent presence on campus to promote safety.
- Ensures the buildings and grounds are well maintained.
SAFETY PREPAREDNESS
As parents, we face many challenges in providing for and nurturing our children. None is more important than the safety and welfare of each one of them. This concern certainly does not stop when we send our children to school. To prepare students for emergencies, students will participate in fire drills, earthquake preparedness drills, and lockdown drills. Classroom teachers will review and practice these procedures with students throughout the year.
FIRE DRILLS
We practice safe evacuation of classrooms in the event of a fire. Routes are posted in every classroom. To ensure the safety of our students, fire drills are practiced monthly.
EMERGENCY LOCK-DOWNS
Under some circumstances, there may be a time when dangerous situations occur in the immediate school community that will require the school to be “locked down” as a precaution to ensure student safety and prevent intruders from coming onto the school site. An announcement is made on the Public Address system informing everyone that we are in “Lock Down” mode. All staff immediately lock their doors. If students are outside, staff ensures students quickly enter a secure area that is secure and locked. During lockdowns, no one is allowed to leave or come onto the school site. In addition, students CANNOT BE RELEASED TO ANYONE until the lockdown is cleared.
EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS
In the event of an earthquake, students will drop, cover, and hold. When safe, students will evacuate buildings, meet on the playground where staff will account for all students and adults, and will be safe until picked up. Students will be released ONLY to parents or authorized adults. We have evacuation drills so that everyone on campus knows exactly what to do and where to go. To be adequately prepared, district-wide drills are conducted annually.
SMOG ALERT
A county program is in place to limit the activity of children during a Smog Alert or extremely hot days. During high-risk days, the District maintains contact with the Department of Air Pollution. When the ozone content reaches a critical point, schools are notified. At that point, physical activity will be limited or curtailed until school ends or the alert ends. This helps keep students safe by preventing them from breathing contaminated air and from possible heat-related illnesses.
PROTECT YOUR SCHOOL
If you see anyone ever harm your school, please tell an adult immediately or call SCHOOL POLICE at
(909) 627-7797. You can also call the We Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME, anonymously.
LIBRARY BOOKS, CHROMEBOOKS, TEXTBOOKS, AND BACKPACKS
Being respectful and responsible for library books, textbooks, and personal belongings is important for student success. Students are responsible for their books, backpacks, and personal items. Chromebooks, chargers, textbooks issued during the year, and library books checked out of the library are the property of the school district. We know our students will care for their Chromebooks, textbooks, library books, and personal belongings, however, in case of loss or damage, parents will be notified and will be responsible for the cost of any lost and/or damaged books. Chromebook insurance is available for purchase. Students are required to return Chromebooks, chargers, and textbooks they were issued by their teacher at the end of the year. It is the responsibility of each student to keep his/her belongings, such as jackets, backpacks, and lunch boxes to prevent confusion with other students’ items. Label your child’s personal belongings.
FOOD SERVICES
Students may bring their lunch. All students will receive free breakfast and lunch in the cafeteria.
- BREAKFAST PROGRAM - Breakfast is served “free” to all students from 7:35 am-7:55 am Monday through Thursday and 8:35 am – 8:55 am on Friday.
- LUNCH PROGRAM – Lunch is also provided at NO COST to all students
- Students may bring a sack lunch from home. Label your child’s sack lunch with their name. Forgot lunch, no problem. Just bring the sack lunch with name and room number to the office and we will make sure they receive their lunch on time.
- Hot lunches are served daily at our cafeteria beginning the first day of school. Milk and/or
orange juice are included with the lunch. Water is always available for students and very
important especially during very hot days. We strongly encourage you to send your child
with water bottles, thermos, or other containers. School lunch times are supervised by our
staff of Campus Supervisors.
- Parents that wish to eat lunch with their child, may do so at the picnic tables or in the breezeway.
Please notify the school office and sign in to obtain a visitor’s badge.
- Snacks for Recess: For kindergarten through grade 3, we encourage parents to pack healthy snacks
for children to eat during recess as they usually get hungry by 10:00 am. Students in grades 4-6 may
also bring a healthy snack from home. Students will be allowed to eat their snacks at recess time
on the playground benches before they play. Healthy snacks include fruit, vegetables,
cheese/crackers, granola bars, Cheez-its, etc. Unhealthy snacks are strongly discouraged and
affect your child’s ability to focus on learning. Please do not pack the following items for your child:
Hot/Flaming Cheetos, Taquis, candy, and gum.
GENERAL BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS AND PROCEDURES
Basic Rights
All students have the right to learn in a peaceful, safe, and secure environment.
Duty of PupilsEducation Code Section 48908 states, “All pupils shall comply with the regulations, pursue the required course of study, and submit to the authority of the teachers of the school.”
School-Wide Conscious Discipline, Leader in Me, & Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) Behavioral Expectations
Conscious Discipline is a research-based, comprehensive self-regulation program that integrates social-emotional learning with discipline and guidance. Grounded in current brain research, it fosters a "School Family" built on safety, connection, and problem-solving. Parents can visit www.consciousdiscipline.com for additional information and resources.
Leader in Me is an evidence-based social-emotional learning process developed in collaboration with educators to equip students with essential leadership and life skills for the 21st century. Rooted in secular principles, it promotes personal, interpersonal, and organizational effectiveness.
LEADER IN ME
Teachers will teach lessons focusing on the 7 Habits each day. We focus on one habit each week and celebrate every Friday with an outdoor assembly where students are recognized and get to display their leadership skills.
Students have the right to expect their school to provide a safe and orderly campus that is conducive to learning. To maintain that right, specific behavior expectations have been established. Please discuss and reinforce these with your child as often as necessary to help your child understand the importance of appropriate behavior.
Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible
- When you disagree with another student, first discuss, problem-solve, and then, ask for help from an adult.
- Keep your feet on the ground – Safety First.
- Be responsible for your belongings. Keep an eye on them. If you set them down, make sure they are labeled with your name to distinguish them from others that may look similar.
- Cell phones and smart watches at school may not be used during the instructional day. Student cell phones must be kept in backpacks and off during the day. They may be used after school only.
- Use the restroom quickly, wash hands, and be responsible by leaving it clean.
- Walk in the halls, corridors, and on the blacktop.
- Do not throw rocks or any dangerous item.
- Do not leave campus without permission.
- Keep toys, cards, games, pets, other electronics, and other personal equipment at home. If items are taken from students, they will be held in the office for parent-only pick-up
- Eat lunch in the cafeteria NOT on the playground or in class. Hot/Flaming Cheetos, Taquis, candy, and gum are not allowed at school.
- Be responsible, put and pick up your trash and any litter in the trash cans.
- Be respectful of all school property. Take care of your school!
- Tackle football, use of hardballs, or other games that are not safe will not be played.
- Play only in designated areas on the playground and never behind or between portables as it is not safe.
- Be Respectful means no use of profanity and obscene gestures.
- Be Safe and do not play tag on the playground equipment area or climb up the slide.
- Obtain permission and get a pass from the recess teacher or campus supervisor if you need to come to the office. Students must have a pass to visit the office unless it is an emergency.
- Follow all behavior expectations for the classroom and cafeteria.
- Children may not use equipment or play in the yard without adult supervision as it is not safe.
- Use the restroom and drinking fountains at the warning whistle and before the recess bell.
Parents will be contacted if their child has difficulty following behavior expectations. They will also be contacted if their child is demonstrating behaviors that are respectful, safe, and responsible.
In the Classroom
- Teachers will introduce Conscious Discipline strategies; model and role-play scenarios, practice using their BIG VOICE, and practice problem-solving strategies with students.
During Lunch: Remember, Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible
- Line up quickly and quietly. Use low, inside voices in the cafeteria.
- Stay in line with your class. No cuts or crowding in line as this is not safe.
- Eat lunch and snacks in the cafeteria only.
- Good behavior and table manners are expected. Be courteous to the cafeteria staff.
- If you bring your lunch, do not ask others for their food or share yours.
- Clean your eating area. Check that you have all of your trash and dispose of it appropriately.
- Follow the Campus Supervisor's requests.
Playground: Remember, Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible
The playground is supervised by Campus Supervisors during all scheduled play periods. Supervisors have been trained to use Conscious Discipline strategies and the PBIS framework to ensure the safety of all students.
- Use playground equipment properly.
- Follow game rules and be fair
- Take turns with all equipment
- When the bell rings, FREEZE, The Supervisor will blow the whistle to signal it is okay to WALK to the line and wait quietly for the teacher.
LOST & FOUND
As often as we remind students to take care of their belongings, they do forget. Label your child’s jackets, sweatshirts, backpacks, etc. with their name (first and last). Articles of clothing that are lost or found will be placed in the breezeway. Unclaimed items will be donated to a local charity in December and June.
BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS, SCOOTERS
Since student safety is a priority, only 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students may ride bicycles to school. Bicycle locks are recommended and students must use the bike racks to lock their bicycles up for the day. Skateboards, scooters, and razors are not allowed before, during, and after school hours, including events in the evenings.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips provide wonderful learning experiences for students. Classroom teachers will plan field trips and communicate details with parents. We highly encourage parent participation on field trips. However, only a limited number of parents can attend depending on the venue for the field trip. Please let your child’s teacher know if you are interested and able to attend classroom field trips. Parents who attend field trips are not able to bring younger siblings or other children on field trips as students must be enrolled at La Verne. All parents/volunteers attending a field trip must have a completed and approved Volunteer Application on file, including a valid identification and TB test (with the date given and date read). This process includes fingerprinting and may take from 4-6 weeks so complete an application early in the school year.
CELEBRATIONS -
New legislation affects how birthdays, holidays, and other parties are celebrated at school.
The state of California is concerned about childhood obesity and early-onset diseases such as diabetes. Legislation has been passed that limits the food that can be given to children at school. Birthdays are very special for families who celebrate them and some students like to celebrate their birthday by bringing treats to school for their classmates, but we must ask that the following guidelines be followed:
- Always speak with your child’s teacher at least one week in advance if you would like to do something special for your child.
- Consider sending individual goodie bags of wrapped treats or prizes (fruit roll, pencil, stickers, erasers, etc.)
- Birthday treats or goodie bags will be passed out at the end of the day (last 15 minutes of the school day)
- Cupcakes, cakes, and other sweets will not be accepted for student birthdays
- Another way to celebrate your child’s birthday is to have your child’s name “In lights” on the marquee. We will display your child’s name and birthday beginning at 4:00 pm the day before until 4:00 pm the day of their birthday. Simply fill out the birthday request form along with $5.00 and drop it by the office. Please give the office 48 hour notice. Thank you!
SCHOOL EVENTS:
Several events and activities are planned throughout the year for students and families. Monthly communication via digital newsletters, emails, and Remind messages will be used to inform you as to what is happening during each month. All students and families are welcome and encouraged to attend all school events. Students must be accompanied by an adult at all school-sponsored and PTA events.
HOMEWORK POLICY
For Kindergarten through Sixth grades, the frequency and amount of homework may vary. Homework assignments will not exceed two hours per week at the primary level (K-3), and three hours per week at the intermediate level (4-6).
- Kindergarten homework assignments are aligned to CA Grade Level Standards and are used to stimulate
conversations between students and their parents and to practice what they have learned. Parents are
strongly encouraged to read to their child daily for 15-20 minutes as studies prove this has long-lasting and
positive results.
- Homework assignments in grades 1-3 are aligned to the CA Grade Level Standards, promote the
development of skills, and reinforce classroom instruction. Homework should also encourage family
participation. Reading to and/or with your child daily for 20-30 minutes makes an enormous difference for
children in their vocabulary and comprehension skills. Studies prove that this has long-lasting and positive
results.
- In grades 4-6, homework is aligned to the Grade Level Standards, reinforcing skill development.
Assignments help develop good personal study habits and may include special projects. Teachers will teach
and work with students on how to develop good study techniques and habits. In addition, parents are again
strongly encouraged to read to and/or with their child daily for at least 30 minutes. Studies prove this has
long-lasting and positive results.
STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTING/PARENT CONFERENCES
Progress Reporting: Progress Reports will be sent home six (6) weeks prior to semester grades for students who earn an “U” or “1” grade. Should you receive a Progress Report for your child, please contact your child’s teacher to determine what your child must do and how you can help your child improve.
Conferences: Conferences have been scheduled during the following months and your child’s teacher will set up appointments before that time. You are a very important part of your child’s educational journey, and we highly recommend that you attend conferences with your child’s teacher to review their academic progress.
Parent Conference Dates for 2025-2026 School Year:
Session I: October 16 through October 24, 2025
Session II: March 12 through March 20, 2026
THE LEARNING CONNECTION (TLC)
We are fortunate to be able to offer the TLC after-school program at La Verne Charter at no cost to parents. This program is supervised by a certificated teacher with college tutor support. Students are provided homework assistance, snack time, focused/enrichment lessons, and physical education activities. All Kindergarten (after Phase III begins on Oct. 28) through grade six students are eligible to participate every day after school. On Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, the TLC program begins at dismissal time: 2:26 pm for K-3 and 2:55 pm for 4-6, and Wednesdays at 1:25 pm. If interested, you can apply when you are pre-enrolling or re-enrolling your child in school. Please do so as soon as possible as the program reaches full capacity quickly. TLC Teacher and college tutors follow school protocols with regard to safety and emergency & disaster procedures.
DISTRICT AND STATE TESTING PROGRAMS
District: District Interim Assessments (DIA) are administered two (2) times per year and are aligned to the State Standards. These are administered to students in first through sixth grade in English Language Arts, Writing, and Mathematics and are used to determine student progress and to guide instruction. Kindergarten students are also administered assessments aligned to the State Standards.
State Testing Program: The California Department of Education’s testing program, the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP), is developed by the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC). The SBAC assessments in English Language Arts and Mathematics are administered online, designed to be rigorous, and aligned to the State Standards. Students in grades three through six take these assessments during April and May each school year, while fifth-grade students also complete a Science assessment.
Physical Education Performance Test (PPFT): This series of tests is designed to yield information on fitness, stamina, strength, and agility. Fourth, fifth, and sixth-grade students participate and take the PPFT during the testing window from February to April.
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Response to Intervention (RTI)
This program is a function of the general education program. It provides intervention to struggling students who may be experiencing difficulty with reading, writing, math, etc. Classroom teachers provide intervention during class time and monitor student achievement to determine progress or if a student needs additional interventions. Students may be provided intervention in small groups (before, during, or after school) using research-based strategies to close the achievement gap. You will be notified if your child qualifies and is identified to participate in any intervention program.
After-School Enrichment Programs/Tutoring/Intervention
As funding permits, specialized programs such as Robotics, Mathematics, Dance, and/or others will be offered during the week. Enroll for the various options using 6crickets.
Student Success Team (SST)
This team is a function of the general education program. It is also an intervention that helps students experiencing difficulty with attendance, behavior, or learning. Prior to referring a student, a teacher provides support in the classroom to help the student succeed, including conferencing with parents. The classroom teacher will refer the student to SST for additional assistance if concerns continue. The SST is composed of teachers, administrators, parents, and sometimes the student. Members of the SST work together to review academic information, learn more about the student, and offer additional interventions to help the student succeed in school. When a student does not make adequate progress and continues to struggle, the SST may refer the child to the Special Education Team (SET) who will offer other interventions or may recommend assessment for special education services.
Special Education
Special education services require parent consent and authorized testing by a school psychologist, education specialist, and other personnel depending on the suspected areas of concern. Upon completion of assessments, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) meeting is held to review assessment results with parents and determine eligibility for special education services. Services may include Resource Specialist Program (RSP), Adapted Physical Education (APE), Language and Speech Specialist (LSS), and/or Special Day Class (SDC). Parents can visit the school office to find out more about special education services.
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE)
This is a state-funded program that offers enrichment for students whose talents and academic scores place them in the top 5% intellectual group of students throughout the state. All students in grade two are screened and assessed to determine eligibility All screening and assessments take place in the Fall of each school year.