Lower School Handbook - Colorado Academy

All of us, parents and teachers alike, need to remind ourselves that “being listened to” and “getting our
way” are not at all the same thing. Although someone can listen very thoughtfully to a request, it may be
determined that the request is unrealistic, not feasible within the context of the classroom, or not
compatible with the philosophy of the school. If such a situation arises, we hope as a school that the chain
of communication will help clarify why this is so and that parents and teachers feel listened to, even
though the end result may not be what the party had hoped it would be.
In almost all instances at CA, parents and teachers find mutual satisfaction in their communication with
each other. We pride ourselves on this and feel there is a strong bond between the home and the school
and that this consistency plays an important part in the successful growth and development of a child.
EXPECTATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS AT CA
At Colorado Academy, we believe that a positive relationship between the school and a student's parents or
guardians is essential to the fulfillment of CA’s mission. We recognize that effective relationships are
characterized by clearly defined responsibilities, a shared commitment to collaboration, and open lines of
communication, mutual respect, and a common vision of the goals to be achieved. To assist in creating
the most effective relationship, Colorado Academy expects that parents will:
1. Share in the school's vision.
• Support the mission of the school.
• Understand and support the school's philosophy, policies, and procedures.
• Support the school’s disciplinary process, and understand that the school’s authority in such
matters is final.
• Be supportive of the school's commitment to a diverse and inclusive community.
• Acknowledge that the payment of tuition is an investment in the education of the child, not an
investment of ownership in the school.
• Support the school's emphasis on sustainable practices.
CA understands and appreciates that parents and guardians may employ different means to meet the
expectations and responsibilities expressed in this policy. Nevertheless, CA at all times reserves the right
to dismiss a student whose parent or guardian, in the sole judgment of the school, fails to comply with this
or any other policy or procedure of the school, engages in conduct either on or off the school’s property
that could undermine the authority of the school’s administration, and/or otherwise behaves in a manner
that is unbecoming of a member of the school community. The school also reserves the right to refuse reenrollment
of a student if the school, in its sole discretion, believes the actions of a parent or guardian on
or off the school’s property make a positive, constructive relationship impossible, or otherwise may
interfere with the school's accomplishment of its mission and/or educational goals.
2. Provide a home environment that supports the intellectual, physical and emotional growth of a child.
• Create a schedule and structure that supports a child’s study and completion of homework
requirements.
• Be aware of your child’s online activities and use of computers, television, and video games.
• Encourage integrity and civility in your child.
• Be a role model, especially when it comes to behavior at school or at athletic events. (Please see the
Athletics Handbook online)
• Encourage a child’s participation in events that promote high standards; actively discourage
participation in events that can lead to illegal or unwise behavior.
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