The Delaware Academy of Public Safety and Security

Cadet/Parent Handbook

2017 – 2018

The Delaware Academy

of Public Safety and Security

801 North DuPont Highway

New Castle, DE 19720

Telephone: (302) 322-6050

Fax: (302) 322-4029

Website:

Head of School

Mr. Herbert Sheldon

Board of Directors

Christopher Martin (Public Safety)

Ed Hojnicki (Public Safety)

Shelly Bridge (Public Safety)

Sherese Brewington-Carr (Board Chairman)

Tony Sianni (Public Safety)

Willie Patrick, Jr. (Public Safety)

Jeff Thompson (Parent Representative)

Charlie Copeland (Emeritus)

Dr. George Dennis O’Brien (Emeritus)

All DAPSS board meetings are public meetings and are typically held every second Wednesday of the month. Specific meeting dates and the standard agenda are posted to the Academy website.

MISSIONAND VISION

The Delaware Academy of Public Safety and Security (DAPSS) is a charter high school dedicated to providing a rigorous academic curriculum that meets State of Delaware standards as well as providing cadets practical career training in the public safety field.

As a model of excellence in the public safety field, DAPSS will strive to earn the respect of the community. DAPSS will develop disciplined and responsive individuals that will become the trusted and preferred choice of public safety organizations and/or post-secondary institutions. DAPSS graduates will exhibit the core values of fidelity to others, diligence to succeed, and scholarship in the classroom.

HEAD OF SCHOOL’S MESSAGE

Dear Cadets and Parents:

Welcome to the Delaware Academy of Public Safety and Security.

The Cadet Handbook is designed to provide you with information about the policies and regulations that will govern cadet life at DAPSS. All cadets and parents should review this book carefully and keep it for reference throughout the year.

DAPSS has a mission focused both on college readiness and career preparation in the areas of first responders. As a college preparatory academy with a career focus, DAPSS will open up a world of opportunities for cadets while developing and expanding both their individual knowledge and personal skill sets.

DAPSS cadets will represent discipline, honor and structure. Our core values of Fidelity to Others, Diligence to Succeed, and Scholarship in the Classroom serve to help all cadets succeed both now and in the future.

Thank you for selecting DAPSS. It is important for our success that our entire community embraces a willingness to grow and improve. This document is a guide and all are encouraged to bring forward their questions or concerns as they arise. I know DAPSS 2017-18 will be an outstanding year!

Herb Sheldon

Head of School

Core Values

Fidelity to others

Diligence to succeed

Scholarship in the classroom

Central Principles

Leadership, Discipline, Organization, Teamwork

A MUST READ FOR PARENTS

In order to minimize the number of forms parents are asked to sign and return in the beginning of the year, all parents need to know:

1. It is important that the emergency medical information card (yellow card) be completely filled out and returned immediately. Should your cadet have an accident, this information is necessary to reach parents/guardians. Should any information need to be updated on the emergency medical information card, please notify the nurse.

2. Cadets are sometimes photographed or filmed during activities, and the pictures/videos are included in some of our public relations materials. If you DO NOT want your cadet photographed or filmed, please put your request in writing to the administration. This does not apply to pictures related to the yearbook or class portraits.

3. As the parent of a cadet, I have received, read, and understand the Internet Safety Policy. In addition, I reviewed this policy with my cadet and answered questions he or she asked. If either my cadet or I have further questions, I will ask the administration. I agree to have my cadet abide by the requirements of the policy, and my cadet understands that if he/she violates the policy, he/she is subject to Level III Violation consequences and could be subject to local, state, and federal legal recourse. If you DO NOT want your cadet to use the internet, please put your request in writing to the administration.

4. Parents of juniors or seniors who DO NOT want cadet information disclosed to military recruiters must put their request in writing to have their cadet excluded and send their request to the administration before October 1st.

5. This handbook references some external policies that are available in full from the office or the DAPSS website. Parents and cadets are assumed to have read each policy in its entirety. These policies include but are not limited to: cell phone, uniform, expulsion procedures, discipline for cadets with disabilities, bullying, grading, summer school, and driving/parking procedures.

Thank you for your cooperation.

CADET HONOR CODE

DAPSS offers all cadets a unique opportunity to learn and experience a challenging high school curriculum and professional career training in first responder areas. To accomplish our mission, it is vital that cadets understand that they are held to a higher standard of behavior. Below is the cadet honor code which helps to define and differentiate our academy.

DAPSS cadets are expected to adhere to all expectations and procedures. Cadets are expected to act with respect towards themselves, staff and guests, other cadets, and our facilities and campus.

Honor Code

I am a cadet of the Delaware Academy of Public Safety and Security and as such will conduct myself in a manner which will bring credit to myself and the academy.

I do not lie, cheat or steal and will always be accountable for my actions and deeds.

I will work hard to improve my mind and strengthen my body.

I will wear my uniforms properly, showing pride in my academy.

I am respectful and will treat others with dignity.

I am punctual, prepared to work and will devote my best effort to the task at hand.

I am a model steward of all campus facilities and equipment.

I will seek the mantle of leadership and stand prepared to improve my community.

I am loyal and dedicated to serve others.

I am the future of public safety.

CADET CODE OF CONDUCT

The successful operation of our academy requires the cooperation of many people. All cadets enrolled in the Delaware Academy Of Public Safety and Security (DAPSS) have been enrolled at their request. Therefore, it is assumed both the cadet and his/her parent/guardian desired enrollment based on the expectation that DAPSS will uphold high standards of academic achievement and personal conduct. If at any time a cadet feels that he/she is unwilling to abide by the rules and procedures set forth in this handbook, the cadet may request transfer to the high school in their district at the end of the current year. The professional staff and Board of Directors have established rules and guidelines for maintaining high standards for cadet conduct. Upon entering DAPSS, the cadet is responsible for his or her actions both in and out of the academy.

Any serious violations of academy policy and/or illegal or immoral behavior will result in serious disciplinary action. This is especially true in cases where the good reputation of the academy with the neighboring community is jeopardized.

What is the Cadet Code of Conduct?

The code is an official declaration of DAPSS policies which:

Specifies the rights and responsibilities of cadets

Provides examples of some, but not all, conduct that disrupts a positive environment

Standardizes procedures for disciplinary action

Defines grievance procedures

Incorporates excerpts from State and Federal laws and regulations

Provisions in the Code of Conduct apply to all cadets. Cadets and parents/guardians are presumed to have reviewed the Code and by attending DAPSS, agree to abide by its terms. The DAPSS Code of Conduct and Honor Code falls within the guidelines established by the Delaware Administrative Code, Title 14 Education, 600 Discipline and School Climate and 614 Uniform Definitions for Student Conduct Which May Result in Alternative Placement or Expulsion. These regulations may be found at:

When is the code in effect?

The code is in force:

On school property prior to, during, and following regular academy hours

While cadets are on the bus for any purpose

At all academy sponsored events and any activities where the academy has jurisdiction over cadets, and when a cadet’s conduct to and from DAPSS has a harmful effect on other cadets or on the orderly educational process

When a cadet's out-of-school conduct indicates that he or she presents a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the other cadets and/or staff, or when that conduct jeopardizes the image or partnerships with public safety agencies and/or the community.

What if I have a question about the Code of Conduct?

All questions about the Code of Conduct should be directed to the administration.

Returning Cadet Requirements

Cadets wishing to return to DAPSS in subsequent years must abide by this handbook and our established policies and procedures. Delaware allows its students to attend non-feeder pattern schools through the choice system. This system requires compliance with basic school tenants to remain at a choice school (regular attendance, minimal behavior violations, adequate academic effort, etc). DAPSS follows these guidelines and cadets who have not complied with these basic tenants, our handbook, policies, or procedures will be dismissed, and will not be re-enrolled for the following year.

CADET RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Delaware Academy of Public Safety and Security (the academy) guarantees cadets’ rights allowed by state and federal laws and the rules and regulations of the State Board of Education, and the Delaware Department of Education (DOE). The academy Board of Directors recognizes and supports cadets’ rights and the corresponding cadets’ responsibilities. The administration of DAPSS has the responsibility and authority for maintaining an orderly educational process. Nowhere is it stated or implied in this document that the academy should give up its authority and responsibility.

Attendance

Philosophical Basis: Academy administrators have an obligation under State Law to enforce compulsory attendance. Cadets have an obligation to take advantage of the opportunity for a public school education.
Rights / Responsibilities

To academy policies that clearly defines legal absence, unexcused absence, and tardiness.
To appeal a decision concerning an absence (excused or unexcused) and shall not be penalized in any way for excused absences. Participation in an academy-approved activity shall be considered an excused absence.
Where feasible, to make up assignments missed during any excused absence, according to the academy’s regulations concerning makeup assignments following an absence.

To take advantage of their educational opportunities by attending all classes daily and on time.
To provide the academy with a note explaining the reason for an absence.
To request the makeup assignments from their teachers upon return to the academy and to complete the work according to the Homework section of the code.

Consultation

Philosophical Basis: Personal needs or concerns can seriously threaten and interfere with the educational development of cadets. The academy has the responsibility to notify parents and/or cadets of available counseling services within the academy setting and to inform parents and cadets of the services of other agencies.
Rights / Responsibilities

To be informed accurately as to the nature of the guidance services available.
To appropriate counseling for personal and educational problems. Access to consultation services within a reasonable amount of time should be assured.

To use counseling services for their educational and personal development, where appropriate and available.
To schedule appointments in advance unless the problem or concern is of an emergency nature. Parents and cadets have the responsibility of informing the academy of information that may be useful in making intelligent educational decisions.

Curriculum

Philosophical Basis: The degree of cadet involvement in curriculum development depends upon the age, grade and level of maturity of the cadet. Curriculum is designed for cadets; therefore, the cadet opinion can be extremely important and deserves careful analysis and full consideration.
Rights / Responsibilities

To have access to clear and precise curriculum descriptions that will help them to make informed choices.
To participate in available programs appropriate to their individual needs at all grade levels.
To study all subjects in an atmosphere free from bias and prejudice.
Within their level of maturity and within the scope of their course, to study any issue which relates to the course; and they have the right of access to all available information that relates to the issue.
To equal access to any available extracurricular activity corresponding to their interests and abilities.

To seek clarification, if necessary, from the informed persons in the academy.
To strive for mastery of skills by participating in available programs.
To contribute toward the development of a positive climate in the academy that will lead to wholesome learning and living.
To respect the rights of other individuals who have different viewpoints and become informed about issues being studied.
To explore any available extra-curricular activity that corresponds to their abilities and interests.

Grades

Philosophical Basis: Grades are one indicator of the cadet’s demonstrated knowledge or skill at a particular time. A cadet’s grades should reflect the teacher’s best assessment of the cadet’s academic achievement.
Rights / Responsibilities

To receive a written copy of a teacher’s grading systems at the beginning of each course.
To receive an academic grade that is based on the teacher’s grading system and that reflects the cadet’s academic achievement.
To be given appropriate notice of when assignments are due.
To receive written notification of unsatisfactory progress at any time during the marking period.
Not to have grades used as a disciplinary tool. A cadet who engages in academic dishonesty (cheating, plagiarism, copyright infringements) forfeits this right and will receive no credit for the assignment.

To ask for an explanation of a grading system which they do not understand.
To maintain standards of academic performance according to their abilities and to ask for explanations of grades which they do not understand.
To present assignments when due.
To share notice of unsatisfactory progress with their parents and to improve their performances.
To conduct themselves in a manner which contributes to a good learning environment.

Free Speech/Expression

Philosophical Basis: One of the basic purposes of schools is to prepare cadets for responsible self-expression in our society. Self-expression is permitted under the 1st and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Cadets may inquire, question, and exchange ideas. Self-expression must not interrupt the orderly educational process of the academy or be in violation of the Code of Conduct. Free expression must not be obscene, libelous, or disruptive.
Rights / Responsibilities

To participate in patriotic activities. Cadets also have the right to be excused from any patriotic act that is against their religious beliefs or deep personal convictions. Cadets who do not wish to participate in patriotic activities shall not be forced to do so.
To request in writing to be excused from any activity which is against their religious beliefs.
To petition and survey cadet opinions by following established procedures.
To express their own opinions on issues in a reasonable manner at acceptable times and places determined by the administration.
To assemble peaceably on academy property at a time and place designated by the administration. This right will be denied if it endangers the health or safety of others, damages property, or disrupts the activities of others.

To act in a respectful manner during patriotic activities whether actively participating or not.
To inform the academy of activities which are in conflict with their religious beliefs.
To make reasonable requests to conduct surveys and petitions. The results obtained must be reported accurately.
To be well informed about issues and to express their opinions in a reasonable manner at a reasonable place and time.
To plan, get approval, and hold activities that are based upon educational objectives.

Grievance Procedures

Philosophical Basis: When a cadet feels unfairly treated or has not been afforded due process, a grievance may be filed. The academy is responsible for providing a means for cadets to express and resolve their grievances, this procedure is outlined in Cadet Grievance.
Rights / Responsibilities

To a procedure for expressing and resolving their grievances. This procedure specifies lines of communication, time lines, and a method of appeal.
To participate in the evaluation of and suggest modification to the grievance procedures in a recognized cadet group.

To discuss and to try to resolve their complaints with the person(s) involved before using the grievance procedure.
To state the grievance clearly, to follow the established procedures for resolving the grievance, and to abide by the decision that comes as a result of this process.

Marriage, Pregnancy, and Parenthood

Philosophical Basis: Cadets who are married, expectant parents, or parents, do not lose their right to a free public education. Cadets are encouraged to continue their education through programs designed to meet their special needs.
Rights / Responsibilities

To remain in the regular school program or to attend a special program designed to meet their needs.
To be referred to a marriage, pregnancy, or parenthood agency for counseling if they request it.

To attend classes regularly or to take advantage of special programs designed to meet their needs. Students who are pregnant should seek professional medical advice regarding attendance.
To request counseling for marriage, pregnancy, or parenthood.

Cadet Records

Philosophical Basis: Cadet records are defined as any materials concerning individual cadets kept in any form by the academy or its employees, except for personal notes of teachers and other academy personnel intended for their use only. Cadet records are maintained to provide information that can be used to develop the best possible educational program for each cadet. Care must be exercised by the academy staff to make sure that cadet records are treated confidentially and that the information contained therein is accurate and appropriate.
Rights / Responsibilities

Cadets who are eighteen years of age or older and parents of cadets who are under eighteen years of age have the right to release, inspect, review, and challenge the information contained in the cadet’s records within academy guidelines. See the Release of Cadet Information section.
Cadets have the right to be protected from the release of personally identifiable information to unauthorized persons.

Eligible cadets and parents have the responsibility to give academy personnel ample notice that they want to inspect and review their records. Eligible cadets and parents have the responsibility to meet their financial obligations as it relates to academy fees or fines.
Eligible cadets and parents or guardians have the responsibility to release information to those individuals or agencies that are working in a positive manner for the benefit of the cadet. The permission to release information, where required, must be in writing.

Publications