RS Student Handbook 2023-24

Renaissance School admits students of any race, color, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, nationality, marital status, disability, age, religion, or ethnicity in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship programs, hiring and admissions policies, financial aid program, or any other programs administered by the school.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 1 Mission Statement, Vision Statement, Policy Statement

Page 2 School Life, Honor Code, Signing In and Out

Page 3 Tardiness, Absences and Early Departures

Page 6 Pickup and Drop Off, Classroom Rules, Homework

Page 7 Daily Participation Rubric, Dress Code

Page 8 Faculty Advisors

Page 9 Discipline Policy/Honor Code Violations

Page 11 Reporting an Honor Code Violation, Guidelines for Disciplinary Action

Page 12 Renaissance School Anti-Bullying Policy

Page 13 Focused Study

Page 14 ALab, Grades

Page 16 Academic Restriction

Page 17 Examination Policies

Page 18 Ninth Week and Arts Practicum

Page 19 Independent Studies, Senior Thesis

Page 20 Independent Studies Proposals

Page 21 Senior Thesis Committee Role

Page 22 Computer and Cell Phone Use

Page 23 AI Policy

Page 24 Computer Prohibitions

Page 25 Computer Responsibilities

Page 26 Office Telephone

Page 27 Lunch, Public Display, Food and Drinks

Page 28 Mailboxes and Cubbies, Messages, Health Matters

Page 29 School Closings

Page 30 Sexual Harassment Policy

Page 32 Leadership Team

Page 33 Faculty Contacts

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Renaissance School is to provide curious and engaged students a rich interdisciplinary learning environment focused on critical thinking, creativity, civic engagement, and collaboration.

Through small class sizes, a dynamic curriculum, and differentiated teaching, Renaissance School fosters student achievement and academic success while developing a sense of independence and responsibility.

Renaissance School cultivates a diverse community of learners where differences are celebrated. The experience of diversity allows our community to build a culture that strengthens understanding and value for differences.

VISION STATEMENT

In an environment where learning and ideas are celebrated, we nurture high school students to develop a holistic and strong sense of self for a life of deep insight, creativity, excellence, civic engagement, and social responsibility.

POLICY STATEMENT

Any changes to policies, procedures, and protocols deemed necessary by the Head of School will supersede the ones found in this handbook.

SCHOOL LIFE

Renaissance School rules are relatively few. We expect students to call all teachers by their honorifics and last names, i.e., Dr. Johnson, Mr. Tanner, Ms. Farris, etc. Basic expectations are that students treat teachers and each other courteously, that they take care of school property and personal belongings and take responsibility for their academic work and social behavior. We expect appropriate studentship, including no use of offensive language.

HONOR CODE

The students, faculty, and parents of Renaissance School form a community whose life is grounded in trust. This trust is assumed to be the basis of all relationships, both academic and personal. Specifically, it is expected that no person at Renaissance School will resort to lying, stealing, or cheating and no person will tolerate such actions in others. Each student is always held accountable for his/her/their own actions. With the student signature, all tests and major papers are pledged as follows:

On my honor, I have neither given nor received help on this work.

SIGNING IN AND OUT

Students must sign out at the front office whenever they leave school during the school day. This includes leaving the building for lunch, the library, a medical appointment, going home after school, or for any other reason. Students must sign back in upon return to school from any departures. Students are not required to sign in and out when transitioning between classes.

During the school day, only the front door is to be used for entering and exiting the school (418 and 416 doors only). In the mornings, all students must enter the 418 door and the Office Manager must sign in the student. Students may not sign in or sign out another student. Not signing out or signing other students out may result in loss of sign-out privileges.

Exiting the school via an unauthorized door in any situation other than an emergency is a direct violation of school policy and can result in suspension. During an emergency evacuation, fire exits are employed. Propping open school doors or unlocking secured doors is a clear violation of school policy and compromises the security of the entire school community, potentially resulting in suspension.

TARDINESS

Students check in to school by 8:25 a.m. After 8:30 a.m., a student is marked tardy. If there are unusual circumstances to explain the tardiness, the student should bring a note from his/her/their parent, or the parent should call the front office. Students with only afternoon classes must be at school by 10:30am or they will be marked tardy.

There are no bells between classes at Renaissance School; each student and teacher, therefore, has a special responsibility to pay attention to the clocks and to be in class on time. Tardiness to class disrupts the learning process for everyone. A student’s tardiness to class will affect his/her/their grade. More than three tardies in any class per quarter will result in a loss of sign-out privileges for five school days.

Tardiness by more than ten minutes for any class without a written note or phone call from a parent disrupts the learning process. This unexcused tardy will result in building restrictions for two weeks.

ABSENCES AND EARLY DEPARTURES

Class attendance is a priority at Renaissance School. Because of our small interactive classes, frequent collaborative projects, and performance arts, even one day’s absence can significantly disrupt the rhythm of academic life, not only for the absent student but also for the school as a whole. Furthermore, though homework can be made up, notes copied, and tests taken later, the student can never recapture the lost instruction. Completing old work while keeping up with new content is difficult for most students. Therefore, it is essential that students make a commitment to coming to school regularly. When a student must miss school, here is the protocol to follow:

Illness: Parents need to call the Renaissance School office by 8:30 am each morning their student is absent because of illness. The school will contact the home if no word has been received regarding a student’s absence. Students are responsible for speaking with each of their teachers upon their return, and for making up missed work promptly. (*) It is highly recommended that students check the online homework site and email their teachers while out, to enable a smooth transition back into the classroom.

Planned Absences: Students should notify the school of a planned absence at least three days in advance, by filling out a Planned Absence Form, available in the office. These forms must be signed by all teachers, the Head of School, and the parents of the student who will be away. A student who misses school through a planned absence must assume responsibility for collecting homework assignments beforehand, and for completing all work in a timely fashion. (*) Parents will also fill out a Google form at least three days in advance that will excuse the student’s absence with the Office Manager. (Planned Absence Parent Form)

Family vacations and business trips in which children can join a parent or parents have great value to young people. However, because of Renaissance School’s unique collaborative environment, the school requests that parents not make appointments or plans that interfere with class time. Students, as well, should consider carefully the effect their absence might have on their classmates. For example, if they are in the midst of a collaborative project for a class, or preparations for a performance, their absence will be more disruptive than at other, less busy times.

Medical appointments should be scheduled before or after school hours when possible.

Renaissance School understands the importance of observance of religious holidays. Families with students who will be absent during such holidays should inform the school beforehand. Such absences will be treated as excused absences.

A student who is absent for any reason is responsible for completing within three days all work he/she/they has missed. All long-term assignments -- essays or tests, for example -- that were due on the day the student missed should be turned in the next day he/she/they is at school. Failure to complete missed work in a timely fashion will affect a student’s grade. A long absence caused by illness will be dealt with on an individual basis and must be documented with a doctor’s note.

A student who is absent for more than a third of any individual class in any given quarter will not receive credit for that class. Extensive absence will result in a meeting with the Head of School and the Dean of Academics. If the problem persists, the student’s status at Renaissance School will be evaluated.

Unexcused absences from any class are harmful to the academic culture of the school. Such behavior will result in disciplinary action and may include suspension.

PICK UP AND DROP OFF

Renaissance School building hours are 8am – 4:30pm. Parents approaching the school should be careful not to block the driveway between the two school buildings. Students must be picked up by 4:30 pm. Parents should make plans for the student to go to the library or another safe place if pickup will be after 4:30 pm.

CLASSROOM RULES

No food, gum, candy, or open beverage containers are permitted in the classrooms. Students must not leave backpacks, books, supplies, or personal belongings in the classrooms or common areas. If, however, a student is attending Assembly or a class then the student is allowed to leave a backpack in the room of his/her/their next class. Items found in the focused study area, the wrong classroom, or in the halls around the school will be confiscated. Additionally, loose items lying around the school are a direct fire code violation and could endanger students and faculty.

Upon arrival at school, students must deposit their belongings, including backpacks, jackets, coats, hats, umbrellas, and other personal items in their assigned cubbies. Cell phones should be deposited in the student's mailbox and should not be in their possession during any class. Students should carry to class only what they need until their next break.

HOMEWORK

Homework is not optional. It provides essential practice, reinforcement, and instruction. Students are expected to study approximately two to two and a half hours each night. If homework is not done, the student will lose sign-out privileges until the assignment is complete. Additionally, the student may be required to attend after-school Focused Studies. If the problem persists, the teacher will inform the Academic Dean and Head of School. Communication regarding overdue work is directed to students via email with parents, Academic Dean, and Head of School copied. The Dean of Academics, Head of School, parents, and the student will assemble a plan of action for the student’s nightly homework. The student’s Focused Study time will be planned, so that he/she/they will meet individually with each of his/her/their teachers at least once per week. This schedule will continue until the student is consistently doing homework well and on time.

DAILY PARTICIPATION RUBRIC

Each student at Renaissance School is expected to participate fully in the educational experience we collectively create. While recognizing that individual students have differing strengths, a sense of teamwork is considered essential to a positive classroom environment. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action (see page 8).

Accordingly, each student is expected to meet the following guidelines on a daily basis:

•Arrive on time to class

•Bring required materials to class (see individual class syllabi for specific requirements) including completed homework

•Be respectful of other students’ property, opinions and efforts

•Be respectful of the school and teachers’ property

•Follow directions

•Remain on task

•Focus on being positive and open to differing points of view and pedagogical approaches

•Support the efforts of the group

•Actively contribute to class discussions and projects

A note about studying the figure: Renaissance School students will study the human form and anatomy in its science courses and in the context of history (art and religion). Renaissance School aims to develop the technical skills and the tools necessary to communicate concepts and experiences across various media. Renaissance School does not, however, allow student-created works of any medium that discusses, describes, or depicts the nude figure.

DRESS CODE

During school hours, whether on campus, in physical activity class, or on the Downtown Mall, students are expected to reflect respect for the values of Renaissance School. Accordingly, students should dress properly for school and look neat and clean.

Students may wear nice jeans or pants. Shorts, skirts, tank tops, and crop tops are acceptable, but should be reasonably modest in coverage. Students may not wear T-shirts or sweatshirts with explicit language, messages targeted toward hate, depicting drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, or degrade the integrity of individual groups. Undergarments should not be exposed; shirts and pants should not be transparent. Hats that hide the eyes or face should not be worn during school hours; otherwise, they are permitted between classes and at the discretion of the teacher during class. Sunglasses and bare feet are not allowed.

It is important to remember school should be considered a professional learning environment for all and how we present ourselves matters in all professional settings.

FACULTY ADVISORS

Renaissance School does not have a counselor on staff. Each student will be assigned a member of the Renaissance School faculty as an Advisor. The Advisor will generally meet with students on a weekly basis. The Advisor will work directly with the Dean of Students. Faculty Advisors have the opportunity to consult with a student’s teachers weekly, to ensure that he/she/they are succeeding at the school. Additionally, the Dean of Students serves as a fulltime advisor for all Renaissance School students.

Renaissance School is designed to promote confident, enthusiastic, and responsible young adult learners who treat teachers and each other with courtesy and respect. As responsible members of the Renaissance School community, students will be held accountable for their actions.

Unacceptable Behaviors

Use, distribution, or possession of illegal drugs, alcohol, vapes, or tobacco products, or abuse of prescription drugs and chemicals is not allowed. Searches of student belongings and cubbies may occur. Any single infraction of this rule may result in immediate expulsion from Renaissance School and reporting to the police.

Lying – Cheating – Stealing will not be tolerated. This is a direct violation of Renaissance School’s Honor Code and may result in suspension or expulsion. Plagiarism and misuse of AI (sites such as Chat GBT) fall under this category.

Disrespectful Behavior disrupts the learning environment, making it difficult for teachers to teach and others to learn. Disrespectful behavior in the classroom and abusive language and/or disparaging remarks about others will not be tolerated. Students who cause general disruption and/or willfully choose not to participate in class activities will be held accountable for their actions. Steps in the disciplinary process will be implemented when disrespectful behavior occurs.

Abuse of Property and not cleaning up after oneself shows a lack of respect for the Renaissance School community and may result in disciplinary action.

Being Unprepared for Class disrupts the learning environment and hinders the development of academic skills. Students who come to school unprepared (without homework completed, without having done required reading, without materials, etc.), under the advice of the Dean of Academics, will meet with teachers and their Faculty Advisor to develop a plan to foster a more responsible approach to school. Parents will be notified and asked to support the implementation of the plan. In addition, the student will lose sign-out privileges until the issue is rectified.

If these steps do not solve the problem, a meeting with the Head of School, Dean of Academics, the Advisor, the parents, and the student will be held. At this point, if appropriate, the student will be placed on academic probation, and his/her/their status at Renaissance School will be re-evaluated. Please note: technology problems are not an excuse for incomplete or late homework assignments. Plan accordingly!

REPORTING AN HONOR CODE VIOLATION

All Honor Code incidents and suspected incidents are to be reported directly to the Head of School by the classroom instructor or student through the Incident Report Link or by filing a report in person. If a student suspects an Honor Code violation in the classroom, he or she is to immediately raise his or her hand to be recognized by the instructor. The instructor will monitor exams to check for violations and will write a report to the Head of School about the incident. If the suspected incident occurs outside of a classroom, the student should report directly to the Head of School. All discussions of Honor Code violations must remain confidential and private to protect all involved parties. The Head of School will perform an investigation and will apply appropriate action.

Guidelines for Disciplinary Action

Disciplinary measures are designed to be teaching tools that help students learn from their actions and replace inappropriate behaviors with acceptable ways of responding to different situations. Renaissance School has a restorative approach to disciplinary action and sees disciplinary action first as an opportunity to help students learn to choose better. If there is a history of disregard for school rules, we will reconsider the student’s status at Renaissance School.

The following basic steps for disciplinary action will be implemented when infractions occur. While students will be held accountable for their actions, teachers will assist students in replacing inappropriate behaviors with acceptable ones.

(1) Students may complete a student disciplinary form, which provides an anecdotal record of the incident. This form is turned in to the Head of School for review. In the absence of this form, the Head of School will document the reports as part of a conduct report. Depending on the nature of the infraction, parents may be advised of the situation. The Faculty Advisor may also be notified.

(2) With three or more related office referrals or filed disciplinary forms, the Head of School notifies the parents, student, and teacher(s). A student conduct report is used to record a summary of the notifications and the agreed course of action. This report is stored with the Head of School and

may be included in the student file.

(3) If the student continues to display inappropriate conduct, the Head of School will notify the parents. If suspension is required by the school, a parent conference with the Head of School and the Dean of Academics, as well as a letter of explanation written by the student and addressed to the Head of School, are required to readmit the student.

(4) In cases where a student has not responded to the above-mentioned opportunities to change his or her behavior and become a responsible member of the learning community, expulsion may occur.

Renaissance School recognizes individual situations often warrant different courses of action. In most cases, these options will be part of a plan established by the Head of School during the writing of a student conduct report. It is at the discretion of the Head of School to determine the course of action.

Additionally, Renaissance School believes disciplinary action is a private matter between the student, their parents, and the school. Because of this, we rarely comment publicly on individual students and their disciplinary action. If there is ever a concern about the steps taken, students are encouraged to schedule a meeting with the Head of School.

RENAISSANCE SCHOOL ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

Renaissance School has an academic environment where respect and kindness are at the core of our interactions. Bullying and harassment of any nature are prohibited. Our detailed anti-bullying policy is included in the annual Orientation Form, to be read and acknowledged by all students and parents. A paper copy of the Renaissance School Anti-Bullying Policy is available on request.

FOCUSED STUDY

The Focused Study periods provide an excellent opportunity for students to get a portion of their work done at school and to meet with teachers for extra help. These periods are not optional students must attend them and work productively. Ninth, tenth and eleventh graders are assigned to a specific room for each day’s Focused Study.

If a student wants to meet with a teacher in another classroom, he or she must fill out a Focused Study Pass before the period begins, obtaining the signature and permission of both the Focused Study faculty leader and the teacher with whom the student wants to meet. Students may also get permission to work together on assignments, in spaces where they can talk without disturbing their other classmates (such as the lunchroom). However, if it is clear that students are not working productively under this arrangement, this privilege will be revoked.

If students do not arrive for a Focused Study by the start of the class, they will be marked tardy.

This includes students who fail to turn in a focused study pass to work with another teacher. We strongly recommend that students use their Focused Study time wisely. For instance, instead of using Focused Study to complete homework for the next period’s class, students should use the time to work on assignments they know they need extra help on, with Focused Study teachers who are present and available to help.

ONLY students in the 12th grade, with satisfactory grades (no D's or F's) and parental permission, have the option to leave campus during Focused Study time. However, if a teacher requests a meeting with the student, this meeting is not optional – he or she must attend. Furthermore, if a student’s grades slip, if homework is not done on time, and if he or she is unprepared for class, he or she loses the option of leaving campus during Focused Study.

ALab is a designated 30-minute period of each day used for Advisor meetings, time with teachers for extra help, or class conflict resolution. Additionally, ALab time may be used in classes as extended class time to support particular lessons, labs, and/or project work. When possible, teachers will communicate in advance when a class may need to go into ALab time, otherwise it is at the teacher’s discretion and in consultation with the Academic Dean.

GRADES

The primary function of grades is to provide a transferable record of a student’s performance that other schools can utilize in making decisions about that student’s ability to enter their curricula. At Renaissance School, we observe high absolute standards when grading a student’s performance. While the student is attending Renaissance School, we consider direct contact between the student and teachers (including semester comments) much more important than the actual grade in evaluating the student’s learning progress. Parents should take teacher comments seriously and use them as the basis for assisting each student in maximizing the learning opportunity.

Renaissance School communicates grades with parents throughout the school year.

• Parent/teacher conferences occur in the first and third quarters. It is recommended that parents of students in all grades attend the first quarter conferences. Third-quarter parent/teacher conferences are optional for parents of students in grades 9, 10, and 11.

• Letter grade reports will be sent home for each of the four quarters.

• Mid-quarter reports are sent home in the second and fourth quarters only in cases where a student has a grade of a C or lower.

• Comment sheets will be provided at the end of each semester. Renaissance School faculty will provide a written summary of the course and student progress for the semester with the second and fourth quarter letter grade reports.

Renaissance School Grading Scale

All courses at Renaissance School are Honors level courses. A teacher may recommend Advanced Honors or the Standard level based on student performance in the class. This recommendation will be made under the guidance of the Dean of Academics and Head of School and will be discussed with the student and parent prior to the end of the grading period.

Grade A: Mastered (91% - 100%): (eligible for distinction)

Student demonstrates and articulates a thorough factual and conceptual understanding of course material.

Grade B: Learned (81% - 90%): (eligible for distinction)

Student demonstrates factual and conceptual understanding of course material with some ability to apply concepts.

Distinction: Students performing at the Mastered and Learned levels will be encouraged by their teacher to initiate independent work outside of normal course material to further their ability to apply and integrate course concepts. Demonstrated ability to integrate concepts with other disciplines will earn Distinction. The Distinction Award will be noted on the student transcript next to the appropriate semester grade.

Grade C: Achieved (71% - 80%):

Student completes assignments and demonstrates a consistent understanding of course material.

Grade D: Probationary (65% - 70%)

Student shows serious difficulty in understanding and using the course material. A lack of effort may be indicated.

Grade F: Failed (0% - 64%)

Student has incomplete assignments and failure to understand the course material.

Incomplete:

A temporary status for students with enough excused absences to justify the conclusion that they need extra time (after the normal end of the quarter or semester) to complete assignments/exams before being assigned a grade. Under normal circumstances, grades must be completed within two weeks of the end of the quarter. The Head of School with the Dean of Academics will determine which, if any, students qualify for Incomplete status.

ACADEMIC RESTRICTION

Because of the high academic standards Renaissance School holds for its students and expects students to hold for themselves, low grades will result in the following academic restrictions:

If a student receives a D in a class, he or she will meet with the Head of School to discuss action to be taken. The student will also be placed on a restricted focused study schedule, with the teacher of the class, for at least the remainder of the 9-week period, and longer if necessary. Sign out privileges may be suspended until clear improvement is seen.

If a student receives grades of D or F in two or more classes, he or she will be placed on academic probation until the end of the current 9-week grading period. During academic probation, the student will meet regularly with faculty and will work to bring up the grades to an acceptable level of C or above. Sign out privileges will be suspended until clear improvement is demonstrated. If at the end of the semester the student has not brought the grade up to an acceptable level of C or above, the student’s status at Renaissance School may be in jeopardy, and a meeting with the family, Head of School and Dean of Academics will be called.

EXAMINATION POLICIES

The intent of exams is to provide the student and teacher with an opportunity to re-examine, review, and synthesize the accumulated learning and content of a given semester. Renaissance School students sit for exams twice a year. Second semester seniors do not take exams. Exams are given at the conclusion of the fall and spring semesters. Exam grades constitute twenty percent of the final semester grade.

Exam week schedules are published twice yearly. Exam periods are two hours long. Students are required to attend exam sessions for one and a half hours and may have up to, but no more than, three hours to complete an exam. Students are to remain seated until properly dismissed by the instructor.

If a student has a question regarding the exam or suspicion of an Honor Code violation, that student should remain seated, note their concern on the provided notecard, and raise his or her hand until recognized by the instructor. If there is a suspected Honor Code violation, the instructor and student will follow the appropriate procedures. The student will also be relocated from his or her testing position.

During exam weeks, school opening and closing times may be adjusted. Parents and students should pay careful attention to published materials pertaining to exams and exam schedules, as a student who arrives late for an exam will not be allowed to enter the examination session. Re-exams are not offered.

NINTH WEEK AND ARTS PRACTICUM

Ninth Week and Wednesday Arts Practicum are long-standing traditions at Renaissance School. These school requirements are part of our commitment to developing lifelong learners. We believe it is imperative in this mission to take our students outside of the traditional learning environment.

Ninth Week: Each fall (grades 9 and 10) and spring (grades 11 and 12) students and faculty spend time outside of the classroom learning about our local community, or traveling to a new environment to learn more about our greater community at hand. Ninth Week trips may also include college visitation, service work, and research opportunities. Ninth Week trips and projects are cell phone free and are not optional. It is the expectation that all students fully participate in Ninth Week activities. Should a student miss Ninth Week for healthrelated reasons, an at-home curriculum corresponding with the Ninth Week curriculum may be provided by the school.

Arts Practicum: Each Wednesday all Renaissance School students engage in an Arts Practicum. This is a moment where the full school community learns and works on a particular subject at hand. This is a program that is organized and run by the school as part of the Community Collaboration Center. Arts Practicum is a required component of the Renaissance School curriculum.

INDEPENDENT STUDIES

At Renaissance School, 11th and 12th graders pursue approved Independent Study Programs under the guidance of the faculty and staff. The goals of the Independent Study Program include fostering a sense of academic curiosity and independence, learning responsibility and selfdiscipline, and seeking academic opportunities outside the boundaries of the Renaissance School walls and the established curriculum. The culminating academic experience of Renaissance School is the preparation and presentation of a Senior Thesis.

The Independent Studies instructors provide counsel and guidance in the preparation of proposals, focusing on academic rigor, assessment components, deadlines, and methods of exhibition.

The Independent Studies instructors meet twice per week with 11th and 12th grade students throughout the year on a formal basis to provide them with encouragement, guidance, feedback, and advice. The instructors provide written end of semester reports, which are filed with the student’s transcript and provided with the semester grades. The instructors also assist the student in organizing a final presentation of work.

SENIOR THESIS

Senior Thesis is the culmination of a student's academic career at Renaissance School and a requirement for graduation. Students will meet as a group twice a week for a Senior Thesis Seminar and share with one another the progress they are making. In addition, students will also meet with their assigned Senior Thesis committee each month. The student is also required to interview a person outside of school who is an expert in his or her field of study and conduct original research in addition to traditional research. At some point during the first semester, the student will give an Assembly talk to the school, describing his or her project and the progress achieved. Successful completion of Senior Thesis requires three components: thesis research paper, thesis defense, and presentation.

INDEPENDENT STUDIES PROPOSALS

Throughout the second semester of their sophomore and junior years, students work with the faculty to brainstorm and formulate their Independent Studies proposals. As the deadline approaches, students will provide a four-page proposal with a one-page abstract. Ultimately, the proposals should be of a high enough quality to be included with the student's college application materials. Proposals are accepted no later than the Friday before the final semester exams of the sophomore and junior years. Proposals should clearly explain the following:

•The genesis of the idea for the project and the motivating discontent, or initial curiosity/desire for knowledge, which led to the focus of study. This section of the proposal may be written as a personal narrative.

•A concise description of the project's exact purpose and content, including the course of research to follow and a description of any classes, community service projects, internships, or other components that will make up the project. This section of the proposal should clearly indicate the cross-disciplinary aspect of the project. The Independent Studies instructors will email each rising junior and senior during the summer to review their individual proposals.

•A timeline for completion of the project, including, at a bare minimum, specific goals to be reached by the end of each quarter (more frequent assessments should be included if a student and/or the director knows she or he works better in a highly structured environment). Based upon these written goals, students meet with the instructor and committee (for Senior Thesis) to assess their progress, to troubleshoot, and to adjust goals or due dates as thoughtful, honest self-assessment (in addition to the formal advisory assessment) will constitute an important part of the project’s overall success.

•A detailed description of the project's culminating exhibition. The instructors will help students prepare, and Renaissance School will assist students in finding locations if needed (for Senior Thesis).

SENIOR THESIS COMMITTEE ROLE

Each senior will have an assigned Thesis Committee Head faculty member. From there, the seniors will work with the Thesis instructor to create a committee of faculty members. The Thesis Committee's role is to provide counsel and guidance, as well as to assess student progress. Advisees must schedule separate individual meetings (at least one per month) with Committee members. During the first meeting, in early September, committee members and the student should review the proposal, make any necessary adjustments, and set a series of meeting dates throughout the year in addition to the formal assessment dates at the end of each month. Committee members may ask to meet students, and vice versa, as often as they deem necessary. If students have trouble meeting the goals set in their proposals, committee members, with the instructors, should help students revise their goals or meeting schedule in order to keep the project on track. At the end of each quarter, grades based upon the amount of work completed by the student in relation to his or her pre-set goals will be sent home along with report cards.

COMPUTER AND CELL PHONE USE

Computers are to complement students’ academic life—they broaden capabilities for research and productivity. Students should avoid situations that would encourage the school to restrict the use of computers. (Please see Student Policies for Computer Use form.) Remember, use of the system is a privilege, not a right. Students who abuse or make inappropriate use of computers or the Internet will lose that privilege. Violations involving the computers will be handled through the discipline policy.

Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If you feel you can identify a security problem on the network or with any internet access, you must notify I.T. or Head of School. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Do not use another individual’s account. Attempts to log onto the system as any other user will result in the cancellation of your user privileges.

Remember, a computer problem is not an excuse for not completing homework!

The use of cell phones can be disruptive to academic and social development. At Renaissance School, we expect an engaged group of students and faculty working in an environment driven by discussion and academic discourse.

The use and presence of cell phones or devices with internet access (other than computers) during school hours are permitted only in the front office. Students are required to leave their cell phones silenced or turned off in their student mailbox during school hours. In other words, cell phones should not travel past the front office. Should a student not follow the rules of all phone use, their parents will be notified and cell phone use on campus will be prohibited. Texting or answering a phone during class is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate loss of phone privileges for the remainder of the year. Disregarding this policy will result in permanent loss of phone use.

AI policy

While AI is never to be a substitute for creative or critical thinking, Renaissance School embraces the opportunities AI can provide in both learning and innovative teaching. The role and use of AI will vary between classes and students should not attempt to use AI in any assignment unless clear expectations and application has been set by the instructor. Faculty may use content detectors in homework and students will be required to re-do any assignment with AI content match.

If AI is used inappropriately, the Head of School will be notified and will work with the student and teacher on a plan of action moving forward. After two or more infractions of this policy, parents will be notified.

COMPUTER PROHIBITIONS

Renaissance School maintains computers and wireless internet access for the educational use of students and faculty. Students are prohibited from doing the following on school computer equipment or when using the school wireless network:

•Damaging, changing, or tampering with any part of the school’s computer system, hardware, or software

•Copying copyrighted software

•Printing documents not related to schoolwork

•Adding, deleting, or altering files or installing programs without permission from the Head of School

•Engaging in non-academic uses of the computer system, such as game playing and chatting, or using social media

•Accessing, transmitting, or downloading large files,

•Responding to any unsolicited online contact

•Accessing or storing illegal or explicit material or material that is potentially harmful to the user, the computer system, or others

•Using the Internet or e-mail to solicit or conspire about illegal activities or substances

•Making harassing, threatening, prejudicial, or discriminatory statements over the computer system

•Accessing, storing, transmitting, or distributing offensive, indecent, obscene, or pornographic materials in any form

•Circumventing or attempting to circumvent the security measures on any school computer

•Introducing any form of a computer virus to any school computer

Using the computer system or the Internet for commercial gain, political purpose, or to advocate violence or discrimination

If a student notices a security problem, the student must notify I.T. personnel immediately. Failure to follow the policy may result in disciplinary action as outlined in the student handbook.

COMPUTER RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Renaissance School will not tolerate cyber-bullying. Should evidence of cyberbullying occur by any Renaissance School student at any time, disciplinary action will be taken at the discretion of the Head of School. Such considerations will include suspension and expulsion.

2. Preservation of the equipment means keeping electronics from situations that put them at risk. Students must keep food and drink away from computers at all times! (This includes water and coffee.) Avoid any activities that would put computers at risk!

3. Renaissance School has a designated computer for yearbook committee use only. Students not working on the yearbook are not permitted to use the yearbook computer. This is located in the Art Room.

4. Practice conservation of trees and money! Recycling of paper is strongly encouraged. Students should be thoughtful concerning their printing needs and only print what is necessary.

5. We trust that all sites visited by students will be in the interest of legitimate research. Do not misuse internet privileges or internet privileges will be taken away! Also, keep in mind how time can slip away…don’t let the internet eat away at homework time. The use of one’s account must be in support of educational and research objectives consistent with the Renaissance School mission.

6. Saving data/downloading. Students are required to save academic work on a portable USB stick or a shared public drive such as Google Drive. Do not transmit, search, or save any questionable material. The internet may not be used to infringe on copyrights or to plagiarize materials!

7. If there are problems with the system that result in misuse or disrepair, users will be suspended from the network, or, ultimately, expelled from the network. If something breaks as a result of negligence, the user or users will be responsible for repairs.

8. Any questions or concerns regarding computer use, data sharing, internet access, or other online system information should be directed to IT.

9. Laptops - Renaissance School will not be held liable for:

•

Information stored on hard drives or servers.

•Information retrieved through the School computers, networks, or online resources.

•Personal property used to access School computers, networks, or online resources.

•Financial obligations resulting from the use of School resources and accounts to access the internet.

10. Do not establish new internet email accounts at school.

11. Each student is assigned a Renaissance School email account. Students are responsible for checking their email at least every 24 hours. Students must also reply to all emails.

12. Exploring the “dark web” can be dangerous to individuals and the community, and is strictly prohibited with School equipment, during School hours, or on School grounds.

13. Use of student photography: Students are not permitted to post or share publicly any photos taken during school hours and/or on school property without permission from all visible parties and permission from the Head of School.

OFFICE TELEPHONE

Students may use the office telephone only to make emergency calls. Students may not leave class to make calls unless the teacher requests it. No social phone calls of any kind are permitted on the office phone.

LUNCH

Renaissance School students are encouraged to bring a bag lunch from home, as the lunch period is short and classes begin promptly after the lunch period. Lunch should be eaten in the Renaissance School lunchroom or outdoors, and should be cleaned up afterward with all food and trash thrown away promptly, as well as dishes and utensils washed or put in the dishwasher. Absolutely no eating or drinking, with the exception of water and liquids held in spill-proof cups, is allowed outside of the lunchroom. Going out for lunch is a privilege and, as such, will be revoked if it is abused.

Students may use the oven and stove top during lunch with administrator permission only. The oven and stove top will be cleaned by the student after each use.

Students take turns cleaning the lunchroom on a rotating schedule. This includes, but is not limited to, sweeping the floors, wiping all tables and countertops, cleaning any items left in the sinks, and removing any remaining debris. This is an important contribution to the school community.

PUBLIC DISPLAY

There should be no "make out" sessions and displays, no matter the sexual orientation, on the school grounds. This can make others feel uncomfortable and is an inappropriate use of school time. Likewise, we do not share seats or chairs with friends. One person, one seat.

FOOD AND DRINKS

No food, candy, gum, or beverages without spill-proof lids are permitted outside of the lunchroom. As with all school property, students must not leave trash or personal possessions. Students are expected to clean up after themselves in a timely manner.

Each student has a lunchbox cubby in the lunchroom where food can be stored. Students may also use the refrigerator as needed, but are required to clean out their belongings each day.

MAILBOXES AND CUBBIES

Each student is assigned a cubby in which to store books, school supplies, and personal belongings. Cubbies are public spaces and are to be respected as such. Cubbies should be kept clean and debris free! Lunches, food items and drinks should be stored in the lunchroom refrigerators and shelves, not in the cubby room.

Each student is also provided a personal mailbox. Students should check their mailbox several times a day for homework, messages, etc. Mailboxes should not be used to store textbooks or large binders, and should regularly be cleaned out.

It is important to remember cubbies are school property. Faculty and staff reserve the right to remove any materials that are inappropriate (including but not limited to, messages targeting hate, food and drink, and leaking containers).

MESSAGES

Parents may call Renaissance School to leave a message for a student. Parents may also bring forgotten items to the office and leave a note for the student. Messages from parents will be placed in the student's mailbox. An urgent or very important message will be taken directly to the student.

HEALTH MATTERS

Every morning before entering the school building, students should do a daily health assessment. During this time, students should assess how they are feeling and if they have any symptoms related to illness.

If a student is sick or showing symptoms of illness, the students should not attend school that day and a parent should contact the school. The student is permitted to return when symptoms have ceased, and the child is feverfree for 24-hours or more.

Students who develop symptoms during the school day are sent to the office. If a student is too ill to attend class, it is necessary for the student to go home. The school will call the parent to come for the student. If parents have signed a permission form, a student may be given medication in the school office. Any medication that a student brings to school should be given to the Office Manager. The student can then come to the office to take the medication. If a student must be taken to the hospital or other medical care unit, we will use the “Release of Agent” form on file.

Medical forms and emergency notification forms are kept on file for all students. It is a parent’s responsibility to advise the school of any needed alterations to these forms resulting from moves or other changes in circumstances.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS

If Renaissance School is to be closed due to weather-related or safety reasons, the Head of School will email parents, students, and staff. An emergency text message will also go out to the community. This includes weather-related late openings and early closings. Parents may call for their children before dismissal time if they have concerns about worsening road conditions in their area.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

Renaissance School strives to dedicate itself to creating and maintaining an atmosphere free of all forms of harassment or intimidation. Every individual in the Renaissance School community shall be treated with sensitivity and respect and shall be entitled to work and learn without fear of intimidation, humiliation, and/or degradation from unwanted and unacceptable behavior.

This policy applies to relations between adults, between students, between adults and students, regardless of the individual’s gender and/or age.

Sexual harassment is not social or courting behavior. It is in part, or whole, best seen as an assertion of power through coercion or innuendo or as the result of a student-adult school relationship or student-student relationship.

To attempt to list all possible incidents of acts of sexual harassment would be futile. Sexual harassment can be very broadly described as unwanted and uninvited attention in the form of intimidation or coercion of an unwilling individual into sexual relations or favors real or perceived. It also encompasses the maintenance of a hostile atmosphere or any unwanted and uninvited attention.

It is always important to bear in mind that a power imbalance exists in a faculty-student relationship. This, coupled with students’ relative inexperience, requires all adult members of the Renaissance School community to display and live a strong sense of professional and institutional responsibility. In short, faculty and staff behavior with respect to students as well as to each other must be above suspicion.

The prohibition of sexual harassment is the law, and there is no choice for any organization but scrupulously to comply with Title VII and Civil Rights Act of 1964. There can be no hint of retaliation for legitimate reports of sexual harassment.

The reporting authority for all students is the Dean of Students or the Head of School. The reporting authority for all faculty is the Head of School. Reports will be strictly confidential. An investigation into any charge(s) will be conducted promptly by the Head of School. Anyone found to be in violation of this policy by the Head of School will be subject to appropriate action which may include separation from the School. Anyone who has made false accusations and/or accusations with the sole purpose of defaming may also be subject to separation.

2022-2023 RENAISSANCE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM

Head of School

Dr. Sara Johnson

sjohnson@renaissanceschool.org

Executive Assistant to the Head, Office Manager

Richelle Claiborne

rclaiborne@renaissanceschool.org

Director of Finance and Operations, Registrar

Lady Keller

lkeller@renaissanceschool.org

Dean of Academics

Bethany Farris

bfarris@renaissanceschool.org

Dean of Students, Diversity & Inclusion

Welford McLellan, Jr.

wmclellanjr@renaissanceschool.org

Director of Facilities and Information Technology

Steve Haske

shaske@renaissanceschool.org

RENAISSANCE SCHOOL FACULTY & STAFF

Emily Kate Avakian (English, Native American History)

eavakian@renaissanceschool.org

Richelle Claiborne (Executive Assistant to the Head/Office Manager, Performing Arts) rclaiborne@renaissanceschool.org

Sally Duncan (History, Independent Study, Senior Thesis) sduncan@renaissanceschool.org

Bethany Farris (Academic Dean, Advanced Mathematics, Science) bfarris@renaissanceschool.org

Dr. Carolyn Fay (French) cfay@renaissanceschool.org

Rick France (French) rfrance@renaissanceschool.org

Giselle Gautreau (Art)

ggautreau@renaissanceschool.org

Sarah Goodbar (English) sgoodbar@renaissanceschool.org

Dr. Helen Halladay (Science) nhalladay@renaissanceschool.org

Steve Haske (Building & IT, Marketing) shaske@renaissanceschool.org

RENAISSANCE SCHOOL FACULTY & STAFF (

con’t)

Thomas Inigo (Tri Coach) tri@renaissanceschool.org

Dr. Sara Johnson (Head of School, College Counseling) sjohnson@renaissanceschool.org

Lady Keller (Director of Finance and Operations, Registrar, Yoga) lkeller@renaissanceschool.org

Joaquin Litzenberger (Spanish, Chess Coach) jlitzenberger@renaissanceschool.org

Welford McLellan, Jr. (Dean of Students, Civic Engagement, Physical Activities) wmclellanjr@renaissanceschool.org

Anna Minutella (Sciences)

aminutella@renaissanceschool.org

Jeffrey Prado (Integrated Mathematics) jprado@renaissanceschool.org

Jay Pun (Music Performance) jpun@renaissanceschool.org

Louis Tanner (History)

ltanner@renaissanceschool.org