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STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-2025
1- INTRODUCTION
1.1 A NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL Dear Esteemed Members of Our Community, Parents, Teachers, Staff, and Students, It has been an honor to serve as the newly appointed principal of the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh. I am excited to embark on this journey with you, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome I have already received. Being an educator for more than 25 years in multiple educational settings nationally and internationally has provided me with great opportunities to be close to students, parents, families, and communities from different backgrounds and ethnicities. My goal is to work diligently to provide students with the best opportunities, quality education, and leadership practices and help them be successful in their future. As we begin this new chapter together, I want to share my vision for our school. Our mission remains rooted in the principles of Islam, aiming to nurture not only the academic growth of our students, but also their spiritual, moral, and social development. InshaAlla, we will strive to create an environment where all students feel valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. As we move forward, I invite everyone to join me in making dua for the success of our school. May Allah (SWT) bless our efforts, guide our actions, and grant us the wisdom to fulfill our responsibilities with sincerity and excellence. Thank you for your trust and support. I am eager to know every one of you and to work together to achieve our shared goals. Wa Asslamu Alykum wa Rahmatu Allah Wa Barakatuh Dr. Alia Arafeh Principal Universal Academy of Pittsburgh 1.2 PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK The purpose of the Student Handbook is to give students and their parents/guardians an understanding of the general rules and guidelines for attending and receiving an education at the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh (UAP). In case of conflict between a policy put forth by the Board of Directors and the provisions of this handbook, the board policy most recently adopted by the board will prevail. Because policy adoption and revision is an ongoing process, this document will be reviewed annually and can be amended at any time at the discretion of the board. The handbook is a contract between the school and parents/guardians or students. If policy changes are enacted during the school year, the administration will communicate those changes to students, staff and parents/guardians. 1.3 VISION STATEMENT To create a school recognized for its rigorous curricula in both core academics and Islamic knowledge by fostering students that preserve Islam and Islamic identity while becoming positive and productive members of the society. 1.4 MISSION STATEMENT To provide academic excellence in core curricula to our students guided by Islamic principles in a safe and nurturing environment. 1.5 GUIDING PHILOSOPHY In order to achieve the above mission, it is important for UAP staff and faculty to remember:
1.6 NON-DISCRIMANATION POLICY The Universal Academy of Pittsburgh (UAP) is an equal opportunity education employer and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, and handicap in its admission, activities, programs, or employment practices. 1.7 CONTACT INFORMATION Principal: Alia Arafeh Email: [email protected] Address: 2103 Hampton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15218 Phone: (412) 241-2124 Fax: (412)-241-2123 Website: www.uapschool.org Admin email: [email protected] 1.8 SCHOOL CLOSINGS, DELAYS AND EMERGENCY UAP follows Pittsburgh Public Schools for weather-related school closings and delays. Please check the local news for closing and delay listings. The school will send a notification on closing or delay the earliest possible. 1.9 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Board of Directors is the governing body for UAP. The board seeks to guide and support the school administration; develop procedures for operations, academic standards, and policies for the school; evaluate school performance; develop objectives for the academic school year; provide financial transparency to all parents. Members for the 2024-2025 school year are as follows: Dr. Ahmed Abdul Wahab, Dr. Fatma El Hamidi, Dr. Ibrahim Abukhiran, Aisha Ali, Omar Hemmali, Bekmurod Rustamov. Members of the board can be contacted via email at [email protected] 1.10 FACULTY UAP strives to provide highly qualified and experienced educators. Our teachers are positive role models dedicated to the school’s mission and student success. Our educators work hard to stay abreast with the most current teaching pedagogies and are active in their pursuit of professional development. Our educators strive to model tolerance, cooperation, and public service to our students. 1.11 PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO) PTO membership is open to all parents and teachers who wish to be active in contributing to the success of UAP. The purpose of the PTO is to provide a medium for constructive parent communication, involvement, and participation. The PTO enhances the educational experiences at UAP and plays a key role in making activities and events at UAP successful. To get involved with our PTO, please contact: [email protected] 1.12 Amendments &/or Addendums The Board of Directors, the managing board of the school, reserves the right to modify any policies or procedures at any time. Ideally, timely notification will be announced, although changes are considered adequate without such notice. In the event of amendments or addendums during the school year, a written notice/email will be sent to parents, so that they are aware of these changes 2- POLICY REVIEW
3- ENROLLMENTS
3.1 NEW AND RETURNING STUDENTS
3.2 APPLICATION FEES- NEW STUDENTS ONLY There is a $30 non-refundable application fee for each new student. https://mytads.com/a/universalacademypittsburgh 3.3 REGISTRATION FEES- NEW AND RETURNING STUDENTS Registration fees are $250 per child to hold a student’s place and cover the cost of books, needed supplies, graduation costs, and various student activities throughout the year. Registration fees are non-refundable. https://mytads.com/a/universalacademypittsburgh 3.4 LATE FEES A $50 late fee will be charged by TADS when tuition is not paid by the agreed-upon date. Please keep in mind that this policy will be strictly enforced. although you will have the option to setup recurring payments automatically. 3.5 SIBLING DISCOUNT The school applies a 10% discount for the 2nd child and 20% discount for additional children. 3.6 FINANCIAL AID UAP offers Financial Aid to families with documented financial need based on an evaluation of eligibility and depending on the availability of funds. Families may apply for financial aid online. secure.tads.com (please check our Financial Aid Program Policy). There is a non- refundable $60 financial aid application fee. https://secure.tads.com/Households/FinancialAidApp/Default.aspx 3.7 AFTER-SCHOOL CARE After-School care is available from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. each day for an additional charge of $250 per month; and from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. for an additional charge of $500 per month. 3.8 WITHDRAWING FROM UAP AND REFUND POLICY Considerable effort and expense are expended throughout the registration period and continues during the summer months as we plan and prepare for your child’s inclusion in our school community. Withdrawing students’ mid-year affects the school as we have limited seats in each classroom. Oftentimes we have to turn students away once sections reach capacity. Additionally, our staff make sure each child’s academics are reviewed and courses assigned for their appropriate grade and level. This also includes making each student’s schedule, Chromebook allocation, Parent Accounts, Teacher and Curriculum allocations etc.; all of which take a substantial amount of planning, time, and resources. We understand that plans and circumstances sometimes change. Should you decide to withdraw your child, the following policy applies:
Withdrawal Date And Tuition Obligation Aug 20- September The family obligation is 20% of the yearly tuition October The family obligation is 30% of the yearly tuition November The family obligation is 40% of the yearly tuition December The family obligation is 50% of the yearly tuition January The family obligation is 60% of the yearly tuition February The family obligation is 70% of the yearly tuition March The family obligation is 80% of the yearly tuition April The family obligation is 90% of the yearly tuition May The family obligation is 100% of the yearly tuition June The family obligation is 100% of the yearly tuition
4- CURRICULA
UAP implements a curriculum that reaches beyond that of the requirements of the Pennsylvania Department of Education. UAP offers a rigorous academic curriculum as well as a comprehensive Islamic and Arabic Program that culminates in the memorization and comprehension of the Quran with Tajweed. Our students practice what they learn in the Islamic Studies and Quran classes by performing Dhuhr prayer daily and congregate for the Jummah prayer on Fridays. 4.1 ENGLISH With myView Literacy 2020 ELA curriculum by Savvas (www.savvas.com), our KG- 5th grade “readers are empowered by skill mastery; inspired by authentic, award-winning text; and confident that they are building the skills needed for college and careers. myView Literacy is a structured and interactive core-literacy program for Grades K-5, aligned to the Science of Reading. Through research-based practices, authentic literature, including mentor texts, teachers can inspire growing readers and writers. myView Literacy is grounded in the Science of Reading, which indicates students need explicit systematic instruction in three critical foundational skills: Phonological Awareness, Decoding and Sight Word Recognition. These concepts are taught daily through a variety of researched based practices. As students progress through the primary grades, they grow as readers, relying on their strong foundation of reading skills to fluently read and comprehend text. UAP’s middle school students are using myPerspectives, which “is a brand-new English language arts curriculum for Grades 6–12 that values the perspective of the learner, collectively and individually, and provides next-gen learning experiences that promote higher achievement and develop the competencies needed for college and career readiness. Interactive learning blends print and technology in a student-centered, teacher-inspired classroom. This dynamic Savvas program creates an interactive, engaging, and relevant learning environment through readings, meaningful activities, and purposeful performance tasks. myPerspectives encourages social collaboration as well as student ownership of learning through goal setting, choice, and reflection. Cultivate students’ voices and perspectives. Open a world of ideas using literary and informational texts to prepare students for college and careers. Open Minds” (www.savvas.com). As a part of our strong curriculum that puts great emphasis on the skills students will need in their adult lives, UAP teachers go beyond the texts to introduce many projects during the school year, such as book reports and research papers. This process allows students to put the skills they’ve learned into practice and assists with building a strong connection between the classroom and the real world. 4.2 MATHEMATICS UAP students use enVisionMATH Common Core at the elementary level, which is especially designed to provide comprehensive coverage of the Common Core Standards. This program focuses on not only procedural fluency, but also the deep conceptual understanding of mathematics; in other words, students don’t simply learn HOW to do math, but they also learn the WHY behind it. Middle school students use enVisionMATH2.0 Common Core. “enVisionmath2.0 Common Core is a comprehensive mathematics curriculum for Grades 6–8. It builds on the proven effectiveness of the nvision series, supporting coherent, focused, and rigorous mathematics. enVisionmath2.0 addresses the Common Core State Standards through problem solving, interactive experiences, and visual learning. Personalized math practice, built-in interventions, and customizable content deepen understanding and improve achievement” (www.savvas.com). Students participate in inquiry-based learning and higher-order thinking on a daily basis, starting with a Problem of the Day that jumpstarts the lesson. Teachers encourage their pupils to gain a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts by means of authentic assessments such as the use of manipulatives to visualize multiplication or fractions, and the completion of math projects to show mastery of the skills being taught. 4.3 SOCIAL STUDIES “People have always used stories to teach and to remember. Welcome to myWorld Social Studies™ for Grades K-5. Learning comes alive through storytelling, literacy instruction, and flexible resources. Stories from our world engage students and help develop thoughtful, literate citizens. Lessons apply inquiry processes, practice reading and writing, and involve collaboration and communication skills. Blended learning experiences include an interactive Student Worktext and digital courseware. Share the story of our democratic ideals, communities, and people” (www.savvas.com). Middle school students immerse themselves in the past with myWorld History, also by Savvas: “With innovative online, print, and activity-based resources, all students will go beyond the printed page and actively experience the world as it was and is today.” Through the interactive learning that both myWorld Social Studies and myWorld History provide, students have access to videos and hands-on activities, making the subject of Social Studies interesting for even the most skeptical learner. At UAP, Social Studies teachers go beyond the textbook with research projects based on specific people, places, advances, and events throughout history. Past student activities have included Country, Region, and Explorer Research Projects; State-in-a-Can; creating timelines of their own lives; and building 3-D models of objects from the past. This technique allows students to dive into what interests them, and reinforces the idea that wise people pay attention to the past, in order to benefit their community in the future. 4.4 SCIENCE/STEAM Presented by Savvas, Interactive Science, a next generation K-8 science program featuring an innovative write-in student edition makes learning absorbing, relevant, and engaging. Interactive Science for grades K-8 is based on the most important research and best practices from academic research and from some of the most experienced experts in science education. What results is a program rooted in sound learning approaches, teaching strategies, and ideas to engage all learners to increase their learning so that they can apply their ideas. Interactive Science contains many levels of inquiry to provide access for every learner. At UAP, all students in the K-8 grades use Interactive Science in science class enriched with provided hands-on activities and class STEAM project ideas. 4.5 ARABIC LANGUAGE The UAP has adopted the following curriculum for all of its grades: Arabic at our Children’s Hands Teaching Arabic for non-native speakers Series Introduced by Arabic for All: http://www.kids.arabicforall.net/ This curriculum:
4.6 ARABIC AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE (AFL) The Arabic as a Foreign Language (AFL) Program is fairly new to UAP. This initiative is critical to new students’ learning especially if they have no Arabic Language background. Referrals are based on a placement test used to check the students’ ability to read and write simple Arabic words. In addition, it includes a simple speaking test to check the students’ ability to hold a considerably basic Arabic conversation. AFL students then receive instruction in phonics, reading, pronunciation, writing sentences, and reading based on their test results. 4.7 QURANIC STUDIES Quran, Islamic Studies, and Arabic are among the most important subjects taught at the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh to instill an understanding of Islam, a desire to practice Islam, an appreciation of the Quran as the Guide to mankind, and a sense of responsibility to spread the message to all of humanity. These three courses constitute the “Rope of Islam” to hold onto and insha’Allah to lead to the hereafter. UAP strictly follows the Quran and the Hadith teachings as the basis of our Quranic studies, Islamic Studies, and Arabic programs. We focus on Quran memorization, understanding (Tafseer), and Reading (Tajweed). Our teachers also use the Qaidah Nouraniyah to help the students read and memorize the Quran. 4.8 QURAN HIFZ PROGRAM Quran memorization and recitation have been a cornerstone of UAP’s Quranic Studies Department since the opening of our school. This program is designed to help students memorize part of or the entire Quran with a one-on-one approach. Potential Hufaz will memorize, review and practice for the new lessons with the guide of their teacher. Our teacher is a native Arabic speaker, Hufaz and has her ijaza in the Ten Qiraat. 4.9 ISLAMIC STUDIES Presented by Noorart, ICO Islamic Studies curriculum is a well-designed curriculum serving the mission of Islamic Schools to teach and transmit a common set of beliefs, values and norms that Muslims worldwide share based upon the qur’an and sunnah of prophet Muhammad(s). The material aims to help students develop spiritually and morally, take pride in being Muslims, and achieve balanced personalities that reflect the moderation of Islam. Finally, the content of this series is presented in a spiral approach, whereby students revisit each area of study and examine it in greater depth each year (WWW.NOORART.COM). 4.10 PRAYER (SALAT) As an Islamic school, UAP aims to adhere to the commands of Allah (swt). It is therefore the school’s duty to schedule time for Dhuhr prayer at its prescribed time during the school schedule. We aim to instill a lifelong practice of daily prayer for our students by establishing a daily routine of prayer and worship. Students in the 1st – 8th grades also attend Salat al-Jumah (Friday Prayer) weekly. 4.11 ART Art class is provided to all grades from pre-school through 8th grade, once a week. Art class is structured and presented with an Islamic consciousness. There are no portraits or images drawn, in keeping with Islamic belief. Also, art is integrated into subjects as children develop a sense of self-expression and creativity. 4.12 PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical education (PE) is considered a healthy component of a balanced lifestyle. PE class is scheduled for all grades, two times a week; for 42 minutes. In addition to learning and practicing a variety of healthy recreational activities, physical education provides an opportune time for health and social counseling, as well as sportsmanship and team- building skills. Children are required to wear uniform gym shirts and pants to participate in addition to scuff resistant shoes. During the early spring and late autumn, children should have a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt to use when PE class or recess is held outdoors. A written excuse from a parent/guardian is required if a child is unable to take PE on a particular day, in which case recess activities will also be limited. A doctor’s excuse is required for a prolonged absence from PE. 4.13 IT IT is a course that’s designed to guide students through units on technology as a tool for learning. With influence on 21st Century skills, the course is aligned with Common Core State Standards in grades 4-8 in areas of foundational skills of general reading, informational texts, speaking and listening, as well as language. At the end of the unit, students will apply their learning by creating and presenting their individualized, research- based final project to their peers and a panel of teachers. The student learning outcomes are designed to be transferable to other courses via continuing education and fundamental life-skills. 4.14 SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING UAP uses a research-based and comprehensive curriculum called Mind UP, which promotes emotional and social competencies in attempt to reinforce positive behaviors. Students from K to 8th grade will have a weekly SEL class which scaffolds experience to attain learning goals in self-control, peer relationships, and interpersonal critical thinking skills . A key objective of promoting these developmental skills is to prevent or reduce behavioral and emotional problems. 5- SCHOOL UNIFORM AND DRESS CODE
6- ACADEMICS
6.1 HOMEWORK POLICY Homework is assigned as an extension of our daily school program. Students are expected to complete all homework assignments in a neat manner. It is helpful to students when parents provide a clean, organized home study area and establish a specific time each day for homework. Parents are a positive force in children’s education when interest in schoolwork and homework is shown. One additional practice that will positively impact educational goals and progress is to take the time each night to read to or to have your children read to you. 6.2 HOMEWORK EXPECTATIONS Good study habits are essential to every child’s success. The purpose of homework is:
6.3 ABSENCES AND HOMEWORK When students are absent it is their responsibility to make up all homework. Parents and students should:
6.4 LATE HOMEWORK
6.5 PLAGIARISM POLICY UAP strives to create an environment of academic integrity. Academic dishonesty is a very serious offense. Students are to respect the works of others and are not permitted to copy or use materials written by others without citing their sources properly. Students who are found plagiarizing will receive a failing grade on their assignment. 6.6 GRADING POLICY
Classwork 10% Participation/Behavior 10% Projects 10% Quizzes 20% Tests 30% 6.7 PARENTS EXPECTATIONS Parents are encouraged to:
6.8 AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES After school programs and extra-curricular activities should be an important part in the total development of each individual student. Students are encouraged to participate in athletics, clubs, class activities and other special events sponsored and approved by UAP. The list of activities will be announced upon availability and subject to change due to interest, funds, and availability of sponsors. 6.9 GUIDELINES FOR AFTER SCHOOL AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
6.10 FIELD TRIPS
6.11 OUTDOOR RECESS POLICY
6.12 STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY Each student is responsible for being on time and prepared with materials and assignments for each class.
7- TRANSPORTATION
Request school transportation here: https://www.uapschool.org/transportation-2024-2025.html 7.1 TRANSPORTATION
Check the Transportation tab on UAP website at: https://www.uapschool.org/transportation-2024-2025.html 7.2 SCHOOL BUS RULES
7.3 VEHICLE RIDERS
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8- ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL POLICIES
8.1 ARRIVAL TIME Arriving to school late means that the child will miss out on valuable instruction. This may put the child behind in his or her schoolwork.
8.2 DISMISSAL
8.3 EARLY DISMISSAL Occasionally parents need to pick up students before the school day is over. This may be difficult if the student has not had adequate time to prepare for departure. It also causes class disruption. Please follow procedure as outlined below:
8.4 LATE PICK-UP
9- ABSENCES AND TARDINESS POLICIES
9.1 REPORTING ABSENCE Prompt and regular attendance is important. We do, of course, understand that absences are sometimes necessary. According to the compulsory attendance laws of Pennsylvania, a written excuse is required for all absences. Parents/ guardians should report their child’s absence by filing the “Student Absence Form” available online on school webpage and upload the excuse form within three (3) days of his/her return to school. If the school does not receive a written excuse within three days of the absence, the absence shall be recorded as unexcused. The written excuse must contain:
9.2 LAWFUL/ EXCUSED ABSENCES A maximum of ten (10) days of cumulative lawful absences verified by parental notification shall be permitted during a school year. All absences beyond ten (10) cumulative days shall require an excuse from a licensed physician. Students with absences beyond the allowable legal limit may be asked to withdraw from school. The only excused absences according to the Pennsylvania School Code are:
9.3 TARDINESS Arriving to school late (after 8:15 a.m.) means that the child will miss out on valuable instruction. This may put the child behind in his or her schoolwork.
9.4 UNEXCUSED AND EXCESSIVE ABSENCES /TARDINESS A student is subject to the PA Compulsory Attendance Law if he/she accumulates 10 or more excused absences or six or more unexcused absences or its equivalence. The following consequences may apply:
9.5 COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE LAW In accordance with the Compulsory Attendance Law of PA Department of Education, the school board shall report to appropriate authorities, infractions of the law regarding the attendance of students below the age of seventeen (17). The school board shall issue notice to those parents/guardians who fail to comply with the requirements of compulsory attendance that such infractions will be prosecuted according to law. For more information, go to: https://www.education.pa.gov/Policy- Funding/BECS/Purdons/Pages/CompulsorySchoolAttendance.aspx 10- MISCELLANEOUS
10.1 PARENT COMMUNICATION
10.2 PARENT ALERT SYSTEM The school administration will use voice call, email, and a text messaging system to communicate urgent information to parents. Please keep the school office updated with your current cell phone numbers in order to receive these alerts. Parents have the choice of selecting their preferred way of communication. We advise parents to set up their TADS- Educate accounts as early as possible. 10.3 EMERGENCY SCHOOL DELAYS AND CLOSINGS
10.4 CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS
10.5 ACCESS TO STUDENT FILES
10.6 WELLNESS POLICY In an effort to provide students with the healthiest environment possible, we ask parents/guardians to provide only healthy snacks for their child/ren. Please be aware that UAP will no longer make available classroom parties for all grade levels, including Pre-K. In replacement of classroom parties, the school will hold a celebration event once each quarter where students may bring in healthy treats to celebrate their accomplishments with their classmates. 10.7 EMERGENCY AND ILLNESS POLICY If your child becomes ill during the school day, you will be contacted and asked to pick up your child as soon as possible. Please do not leave a sick child at school for this can prolong the illness and spread it through the class and school building. The office will determine if a student is sick enough to be sent home. In the case of an accident or injury, you will be contacted for advice on how best to treat your child. However, in the case of a serious emergency, immediate treatment will be given, and you will be contacted with details. This may include a request to meet your child at the nearest medical center or hospital for severe emergencies. 10.8 WHEN TO STAY HOME It is often difficult to decide if your child should stay home from school when complaining of illness.
10.9 PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION POLICY
10.10 PERSONAL PROPERTY
10.11 LOST AND FOUND
10.12 TECHNOLOGY POLICY Access to the internet enables students to explore thousands of books, databases, and other resources. Our school has taken precautions to avoid exposing our students to illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, age-inappropriate, or potentially offensive material that may reside on the internet. However, it is impossible for us to guarantee restricted access of all material of this nature. Parents/guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media information sources. Therefore, we support and respect each family’s right to decide whether or not to allow internet access to their child(ren). 10.13 EXPECTATIONS Since computers/Chromebooks and the internet are part of instruction, it is important to set clear expectations for all students. Parents/guardians are required to review these guidelines with their child(ren) regularly. Students are expected to
10.14 CONFLICT RESOLUTION If parents/guardians have a school-related problem or need assistance, please follow these guidelines:
10.15 USE OF STUDENT’S PHOTOS UAP’s procedure regarding the use of student photographs for news releases, brochures, and website, requires parent/guardian permission, and is listed as a part of yearly TADS enrollment process. If permission is not given, then your child’s photography will not be used to promote the school or individual student achievements. Permission must be granted every year. 10.16 VOLUNTEER POLICY UAP welcomes and encourages volunteer support. Parent and community volunteers work under the direct supervision of the principal and teachers. Individuals who would like to volunteer in our school or work with our students should contact the principal to offer their services. Volunteers working in classrooms or directly with students must have the following three clearances in advance:
11- STUDENT MISCONDUCT POLICY
11.1 Positive Behavioral Interventions & Support (PBIS) at UAP PBIS is an approach in behavior management on a school-wide level, in a specific setting such as the bus, hallways classrooms, cafeteria, lunchroom, recess, and assemblies, or with an individual student. PBIS methods are research-based and have been proven to significantly reduce the occurrence of problem behaviors. One of the keys is to focus on prevention. It is based on the idea that when students are taught clearly defined behavioral expectations and provided with predictable responses to their behavior, both positive and corrective, 80-85% of students will meet these expectations. The 15-20% of the students not responding to universal interventions will receive additional support through group and individual interventions. Another key element is an analysis of discipline referral data. This team-based approach to data analysis allows UAP’s PBIS Team to identify problem areas, brainstorm interventions, acknowledge students exhibiting positive behavior, and communicate the findings to staff, students, and parents. The key components of an effective school-wide PBIS system involve:
As part of our PBIS system, UAP upholds its core C.A.R.E values (Careful, Accountable, Respectful, and Enthusiastic). Each of these principles reflect the belief that each person deserves and needs a positive, concerned, accepting educational community that values diversity and provides a comprehensive system of individual supports from birth to adulthood. The purpose of this staff manual is to briefly illustrate how these components will be utilized within UAP’s PBIS school-wide system. Please take some time to review with your child the positive behavior expectations described in this manual. Ask your child to make sure he/she understands the expectations in different locations around the school or on the bus. Please discuss the importance of these concepts and encourage your child to be careful, accountable, responsible, and enthusiastic. 11.2 The Disciplinary Process UAP is not only a place of learning academic concepts and skills but also a place to learn Islamic Akhlaaq (manners) and exemplary behavior. Students are expected to enhance the image and reputation of the school by observing high standards of Islamic Akhlaaq and exemplary behavior. Parents must assume the responsibility to reinforce these values at home. Teachers are required to emphasize and demonstrate Islamic Akhlaaq during school hours and in their daily lives. The school has adopted policies and procedures, which, when implemented, will help to ensure a safe and pleasant learning and working environment for students and teachers. The intent of the disciplinary process is instructional and corrective, not punitive. Due consideration will be given to all mitigating circumstances prior to the disciplinary action and will ensure due process to each student. Any misconduct not covered in the following list will be left to the discretion of the classroom teacher and the principal of the school. The policy and procedures will apply to actions by students during school hours; before and after school; while on school property; and during school-sponsored events, including transportation on school- arranged vehicles. All disciplinary actions will include a conference between the teacher (and / or administrator) and the student, followed by a notification to the student’s parents or guardian. The student, parent or guardian who feels that the action taken is unwarranted or unjustified has the right to appeal to the next higher administrative authority. 11.3 Office Discipline Referral Process
11.4 After School Detention Students in grades 3 –8 will be eligible for after-school detention based on their behavior. Students receiving the detention will be given a form to be signed by a parent or guardians. Detention will be assigned any day Monday through Thursday from 3:30- 4:30 P.M. (not the same day of the offense). The student will be notified of his or her assigned detention at least one day prior to the detention. The disciplinary notice will be sent home with the student. The administrator will enter the infraction, the consequence, the date, and a narrative to document the incident. 11.5 Expulsion Expulsion is the cancellation of the student’s enrollment at UAP for the remainder of the year without any refund of fees paid. Re-admission in subsequent years can only be considered upon the presentation to the admissions committee of proof that the student’s behavior problem has been addressed and improved, and successfully completed the previous grade. 11.6 Due Process Any student whose conduct may warrant suspension or expulsion will be provided due process. Students:
Parents may appeal in writing any disciplinary action taken by the school administration. If the parents are still not satisfied with the decision, they may request the decision be reviewed by a committee made up of the teacher involved, the principal and a board member. After hearing all sides of the case, a final decision will be made. STUDENTS' INFORMATION ON EDUCATE
A. ACADEMIC
B. SCHEDULE
C. DEMOGRAPHICS
LATE TUITION POLICY
The Universal Academy of Pittsburgh (UAP) makes every effort to provide an affordable quality education in an Islamic environment for our students. The cost to educate each student exceeds the total tuition and fees that are assessed to each student’s account. This means every student is granted a discounted tuition. In addition, financial aid and Zakat program proceeds are awarded to students based on need and available resources. The majority of the school’s income is derived from student tuition and fees. The school cannot fulfill its mission and cover fundamental school operation costs unless the obligations of every student are met in a timely manner. The school’s expectation at the time of registration is that all tuition and fees will be paid on time, according to the terms of the TADS payment plan the family has signed. UAP will implement the following policy on all delinquent tuition payments thirty (30) days after the due date. After 30 Days of Past Due Payments: UAP will send a letter in the mail (first notice) to families with delinquent payments requesting to submit a written “Alternative Payment Plan”- within 14 days of receiving the first notice- to satisfy its financial obligations. This plan should include a written statement outlining the extenuating circumstances resulting in the delinquencies, and a plan to pay the full account balance within 60 days of the original past due date. Acceptance of the payment plan will be determined by the principal and the board of directors. If a parent/guardian does not submit a written alternative plan for payment to the school administration within 14 days of receiving the first notice, the parent portal “Educate” will be put on “hold”, and report cards and progress reports will be withheld. After 60 Days of the original past due date: The enrollment removal process will begin for students with an outstanding balance, and collection efforts will be turned over to a collection agency. The Enrollment Removal Process A second letter will be mailed to the family verifying that the student is no longer eligible for enrollment. The letter will state the amount owed, payment date, and the last date the student will be permitted to attend classes unless the stated amount is paid in full. The student must turn in all classroom materials (including, but not limited to, text books, Chromebook, charger, classroom equipment, etc.) to the Office on the last day of their classes. Please Note:
The goal of UAP school is to provide an education in an Islamic environment to every student that desires one. By working together, we can make sure this goal is met. The UAP school encourages all responsible parties to maintain open communication with the administration to ensure a complete understanding of each family’s financial circumstance. CHROMEBOOK LOAN AGREEMENT
The Universal Academy of Pittsburgh is loaning your student one Chromebook and one charger in an excellent working condition. The Chromebook is, and remains at all times, the property of the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh, and is loaned to the student for educational purposes only, in accordance with the school’s Acceptable Use Policies, and Student Responsibilities outlined at the end of this agreement. It is the student’s responsibility to protect and safeguard the school property, and to return the device in a good working condition upon request by the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh. If the student leaves or withdraws from the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh, the device and original charger must be returned prior to departure. Students should have no expectation of privacy regarding the contents of electronic files on or communications using the school owned devices. The school reserves the right to examine, inspect and/or access any and all files and information stored on school owned devices at any time. The Universal Academy of Pittsburgh network is provided for the academic use of all students. The student agrees to take no action that would harm or interfere with the effective academic use of the school network. Labels identifying the student and school have been placed on the Chromebook. No other stickers, labels, markings, or tags of any kind are to be added to the laptop. Students should not, under any circumstances, provide their identifiable information to others and should take all reasonable precautions to prevent others from using their passwords and information. Theft of a Chromebook will be considered a violation of student conduct, and thus be subject to disciplinary action and forfeiting the deposit. The parent/guardian acknowledges and agrees to pay the Chromebook Deposit of $200, to be refunded upon the satisfactory return of the laptop and charger to the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh. Chromebook Acceptable Use Policies and Student ResponsibilitiesYour Chromebook is an important learning tool, and its use is a privilege, and provided only for educational purposes. As a user of the Chromebook at the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh, the student accepts the following responsibilities:
Student Signature Date Student Name Printed Parent/Guardian Signature Date Parent/Guardian Name Printed |
We are SocialEmail: admin@uapschool.org
Phone: 412-241-2124 Fax: 412-241-2123 Email the Board of Directors: [email protected] |
Contact Us |
Our LocationUniversal Academy of Pittsburgh
2103 Hampton Street Pittsburgh PA 15218 |