Student Parent Handbook 2023-2024

Student & Parent Handbook 

2023-2024 

532 Osuna Road NE • Albuquerque, NM, 87113 

505.338.3000 • 505.338.3099 (fax) • sandiaprep.org

Table of Contents 

Absence, Lateness, or Tardiness........ 5 

Academic Reports.............................. 6 

Accounts............................................ 6 

Activities............................................. 6 

Advanced Placement Classes............ 7 

Advisors............................................. 7 

After-School Policy............................. 7 

Alcohol & Other Drug Use Policy...... 7 

Americans With Disabilities Act ........ 8 

Athletics............................................. 9 

Bathrooms........................................ 10 

Board of Trustees............................ .10 

Bullying/Harassment/Hazing Policy.1 0 

Cell Phones & Electronic Devices.... 1 1 

Cheating and Plagiarism.................. 12 

Child Abuse and/or Neglect............ 13 

College Counseling ......................... 13 

College Testing................................ 15 

Community Service ......................... 15 

Dances.............................................. 16 

Digital Citizenship Agreement......... 16 

Directory.......................................... 18 

Disciplinary Procedures.................... 18 

Distinguished Scholars..................... 19 

Dress Code....................................... 20 

Driving on Campus.......................... 20 

Drop/Add Courses........................... 20 

Eligibility to Participate in Athletics.2 0 

Event/Trip Approval & Guidelines... 21 

Exams............................................... 21 

Field Trips......................................... 21 

Food Delivery................................... 21 

Fundraising Policy............................ 22 

Grade Point Average....................... 22 

Grading System............................... 22 

Graduation Requirements................ 22 

Honor Society.................................. 23 

Independent Study.......................... 23 

Leaving Campus............................... 24 

Library.............................................. 24 

Lions and Unicorns........................... 24 

Lockers............................................. 24 

Lost and Found................................ 24 

Medical and Health.......................... 24 

Medical Leave of Absence............... 25 

Non-Discriminatory Policy................. 4 

Odyssey Scholars Program.............. 26 

Off Limits Areas............................... 27 

Outdoor Leadership Program......... 27 

Parking............................................. 27 

Pets on Campus............................... 28 

Probation (Academic, Behavioral).... 28 

Psychological Services/ 

Health and Wellness.................... 28 

Religious Holidays............................ 29 

Senior Capstone............................... 29 

Snow Policy & School Closings........ 30 

Snow Delay Schedule....................... 30 

Social Media..................................... 30 

Standards of Behavior...................... 30 

Student Government Association.... 31 

Study Abroad................................... 32 

Supply Store..................................... 33 

Telephone......................................... 33 

Testing Policy................................... 33 

Textbooks......................................... 33 

Tobacco/Smoke/Vape-Free 

Campus....................................... 33 

Transportation.................................. 33 

Travel Policy..................................... 35 

Visitors.............................................. 36 

Whom to Call..................................... 3 

2

Welcome to Sandia Prep! 

Sandia Prep is a community where young people can grow intellectually and personally in order to 

make meaningful contributions to society. While Sandia Prep operates in a relaxed and informal 

manner, the essence of a community requires a framework — standards, traditions, policies — to 

achieve its goals. 

Whom to Call 

If you have a question, call the School’s main number (505.338.3000) and ask for the individual 

listed to the right of the subject/department you are calling about, or you may send an email. (Email 

addresses are normally composed of the individual’s first initial followed by last name@sandiaprep. 

org.) For a complete email list, see the Faculty & Staff Directory in the Parent Portal. 

Grades 6-8 questions/concerns Advisor, then Assistant Head for Middle School Susi Hochrein 

Grades 9-12 questions/concerns Advisor, then Assistant Head for Upper School Scott Jeffries 

Admission 

Ray Nelson (admission@sandiaprep.org) 

Alumni Relations 

Jessica Perez (alumni@sandiaprep.org) 

Attendance/Absences spsattendance@sandiaprep.org (or call 338-3000) 

Athletics 

Willie Owens (wowens@sandiaprep.org) 

or Kathleen Lucero (klucero@sandiaprep.org) 

Billing/Bookkeeping 

Business Office (business_office@sandiaprep.org) 

Box Office/Tickets 

tickets@sandiaprep.org 

College Counseling 

Melissa Morse (mmorse@sandiaprep.org) or 

Danielle Yepa Gunderson (dgunderson@sandiaprep.org) 

Community Service 

Middle School - Susi Hochrein (shochrein@sandiaprep.org) 

Upper School - Paul Huitt (phuitt@sandiaprep.org) 

Contributions to the School Jessica Molzen (jmolzen@sandiaprep.org) 

Counseling/Health & Wellness Dr. Amber Hayes (ahayes@sandiaprep.org) or 

Lynn Jeffries (ljeffries@sandiaprep.org) 

Courses Offered 

Scott Jeffries (Upper School); Susi Hochrein (Middle School) 

Dances (Class Sponsors) 

6th: Lucy Kozikowski (lkozikowski@sandiaprep.org) 

7th: Chuck Buxbaum (cbuxbaum@sandiaprep.org) 

8th: Molly Rennie (mrennie@sandiaprep.org) 

9th: Shanna Wix (swix@sandiaprep.org) 

10th: Scott Jeffries (sjeffries@sandiaprep.org) 

11th: Amy James (ajames@sandiaprep.org) 

12th: David Chalfoun (dchalfoun@sandiaprep.org) 

Detention/Disciplinary Action Brian Tregembo (btregembo@sandiaprep.org) 

Distinguished Scholars 

Scott Jeffries (sjeffries@sandiaprep.org) 

Facilities: Rental/Use Courtney Giannini (cgiannini@sandiaprep.org) 

Gym/Fields Willie Owens (wowens@sandiaprep.org) 

Theater 

Louis Giannini (lgianninni@sandiaprep.org) 

Graduation 


Homework (make-up) 

Your students' advisor; Front Desk; or check the PrepNet Portals 

Library Books 

Melanie Templet (mtemplet@sandiaprep.org) 

Lockers/Combination Locks Brian Tregembo (btregembo@sandiaprep.org) 

3

Lost & Found Items Leonard Garcia (353-0272) 

Lunch/Student Accounts 

Joe Chavez (jochavez@sandiaprep.org) 

Marketing & Communications Melissa Jo Stroud (mstroud@sandiaprep.org) or 

Alexis Magana-Jaggli (amagana@sandiaprep.org) 

Odyssey Scholars 


Report Cards/Transcripts Laurie Magee (lmagee@sandiaprep.org) 

Scheduling 

Advisor; or Assistant Head for Upper or Middle School 

SummerPrep 

Laura Fitzpatrick (lfitzpatrick@sandiaprep.org) 

Technical Help (PrepNet Portals) Jenny Davidson, IT Director (jdavidson@sandiaprep.org) 

Textbooks 

Main Office (Non-Textbook Lists); Library (State Textbooks) 

Travel (Student) 

Scott Jeffries, Assistant Head (sjeffries@sandiaprep.org) 

If all else fails... 

Brian Tregembo, Dean of Students (btregembo@sandiaprep.org) 

Introduction 

At Sandia Preparatory School, we foster individual growth and scholarship in each of our students. Our 

classes are small, and we meet the unique needs of each learner. In all that we do, we seek to enhance 

each student’s love of learning, and we emphasize cooperation and collaboration over competition. Our 

community values ethical decision-making and a commitment to the principles outlined in this Student & 

Parent Handbook. 

While academics are our top priority, our program is defined by balance among the five A’s: Academics, Arts, 

Athletics, Activities, and school Atmosphere. All students are expected to participate actively in our school 

community. We value open and honest communication among all members of our school family. Students 

and teachers are open, friendly and respectful toward one another, and parents/guardians are included as 

partners in their child’s school experience. Each student’s advisor serves as the primary point of contact for 

parents wishing to discuss academic, social, or personal concerns. 

We have a strong commitment to making a positive difference in the greater community. We integrate the 

rich cultural resources of the Albuquerque area into our offerings. We value service to the wider community 

and provide numerous community engagement opportunities to all students and their families. 

Non-Discriminatory Policy 

Sandia Preparatory School shall admit students of any race, color, national origin, religion, gender, gender 

identity or expression, or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally 

accorded or made available to students at the school. It shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, 

national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation in the administration 

of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid and loan programs, and other schooladministered 

programs. 

Your Promise to Sandia Prep 

Being a part of Sandia Prep means keeping a promise. 

Students, we promise to educate you to the best of our ability and in an individual way. We teach, coach, 

advise and care about you. You promise to read this Student & Parent Handbook and to make an honest 

effort to work with us. We expect you to follow the rules because we expect you to keep your promise. 

4

Parents, we promise to include you in our community and to integrate you into the life of the School. We 

communicate with you, sharing important information and listening to your ideas. You promise to read this 

Student & Parent Handbook and to follow our rules, guidelines, and procedures. We expect you to support 

and reinforce our rules with your children. 

Absence, Lateness, or Tardiness 

Classroom attendance is important. We expect students to be here, and the state of New Mexico requires 

students to be here. Teachers will take attendance each period, and the Dean of Students will handle 

unexcused absences. Parents will be informed by the School of any unauthorized class absences. The School 

is required to report cases of truancy and habitual absences. 

Absences: 

If a student will be absent, parents must email the school at spsattendance@sandiaprep.org or call the front 

office at 338-3000 before 9:30 a.m. If the school does not hear from parents, we will contact them either 

by email or phone. Students are responsible for contacting their teachers and collecting work that is due. 

An absence due to illness, family emergency, funeral, medical appointments, or religious holiday will be 

excused. Family vacations are not considered excused absences. 

Tardiness: 

Students should be on time for school. Lateness to class is very disruptive. In the event the student has to 

be tardy, the parent must notify the front office by email or call to advise us of the student's arrival time. 

Upon arrival, the student should be signed in with the Welcome Center/Security office and go straight to 

their class. An unexcused tardy of 20 minutes or more is considered an unexcused absence. The Dean of 

Students will confer with a student and their parents if there are excessive tardies, which could result in 

disciplinary action. 

Although all students are urged to be on campus by 8:00 a.m., as study periods provide an excellent 

opportunity for meetings with teachers and collaborative work with other students, upper school students 

who have a study period first block may arrive in time for their second block class. They must sign in at the 

at the Welcome Center/Security office when they arrive. 

Leaving Campus Early: 

Students are expected to be on campus for the entirety of the school day, including study and activity 

periods. The exception is for illness, family emergency, medical appointments, school business, or Senior 

Privileges. 

Students who are non-drivers will meet their parent/guardian in the West Gym parking lot. Security 

personnel will have the parent sign the student out for the day, notify the front desk that the parent/ 

guardian has arrived and direct the parent/guardian to the pick-up area where they will remain in 

their vehicle. If a student is aware they are being picked up, they may leave class to meet their 

parent/guardian at the pick-up location. If the student is not aware they are being picked up, the 

front office will contact the student’s classroom to let them know their parent/guardian has arrived. 

The student will then leave the room and meet their parents at the pick-up location. Students do not 

need to sign out at the front desk for early dismissal. 

5

Students that are drivers will need a parent or authorized person to call or email us using the 

attendance email address to advise us of an excused dismissal. A permission to leave campus form 

will need to be signed by the Dean of Students and given to Security before leaving campus 

Upper school students are not required to be on campus until their first scheduled class period, 

although all students are urged to be on campus by 8:00 a.m., as study periods provide an excellent 

opportunity for meetings with teachers and collaborative work with other students. It is critically 

important that the School knows who is on campus at any point in time, and we ask that students 

with a study period at the start of the day check in with the School’s security staff upon arrival on 

campus. 

Sandia Prep values the participation and involvement of all students at school each day. Helping 

students balance their academics and student life activities at SPS is important to the School 

and the integrity of our program. As stated in our Mission Statement, Sandia Prep provides the 

chance for intellectual and personal growth within a challenging and balanced program. To do this, 

students need to participate by attending school daily. When absences are excessive, at the school's 

discretion, a student may not participate in extracurricular activities, including sports, Outdoor 

Leadership Program (OLP), theater, and clubs. 

A student may not receive credit for any class if more than 10 class sessions per semester are missed 

for any reason. These reasons may include, but are not limited to, absences due to illness, school 

trips (such as field trips or OLP trips), sports, college visits, and family vacations (already considered 

an unexcused absence). If a student misses more than 10 classes during a semester, they may be 

withdrawn from the class. If withdrawn, a notation will appear on the student's transcript that says: 

NC. This notation has an explanation on the transcript as: NC = No Credit / Excessive Absences. 

In the case of extended absences due to physical or emotional illness, the School may grant a medical 

leave of absence. See Medical Leave of Absence. 

Academic Reports 

Academic progress reports of grades lower than a C are sent via email approximately every nine 

weeks by teachers to alert parents, Division Heads, and Advisors of academic problems. 

Accounts 

Charges for student trips, photos, uniforms, lost books, and other items are billed to the student 

account. Invoices are updated each month and can be viewed in the PrepNet Parent Portal. Parents 

are responsible for making payments within 30 days, or late payment charges will be added to the 

account. Enrollment contracts, financial aid awards, grades, transcripts, and diplomas can be held for 

students whose account is more than 30 days past due. 

Activities 

One of the benefits of being at a small school is the ability to explore many different opportunities. 

That’s why we include Activity periods in our regular schedule. Teachers sponsor Activities. Activities 

are offered twice per a normal five-day school week throughout the year; they are not listed in 

students' records. However, attendance is mandatory. 

6

Advanced Placement Classes 

Sandia Prep's Innovative Advanced Curriculum 

Sandia Prep has always stood apart by offering a unique array of rigorous courses that challenge 

students and motivate learning. Our advanced curriculum is tailored to our students, not a 

standardized test. We are a founding member of the Independent Curriculum Group, as we prize our 

independence and innovation too highly to ask our teachers to use a standardized curriculum. 

Our independent curriculum promotes deep, student-centered learning within and beyond the 

classroom. Science students take trips to the volcanoes to study geology and visit sites such as 

the Water Treatment Center to see real-world application of the topics they study. The DesignLab 

is our campus makerspace and offers all students a place to tinker, explore, and create, while our 

fabrication lab is filled with engineering students building projects and programming robots. Visual 

art students learn to create art using objects from the environment. English students explore authors 

and texts from around the globe. History students discuss past events, but also engage in debate 

about current world topics. All seniors engage in a three-week senior project that allows them to 

explore a particular passion or interest. Our curriculum, while highly challenging, advanced, and fully 

college preparatory, is not driven by the pages of a textbook or the limits of tradition. Instead, we 

engage students in active, critical thinking, teaching them the skills of lifetime learning. 

Sandia Prep students are well equipped to take AP exams in a range of academic subjects due to the 

rigorous nature of the School's advanced courses. Juniors and seniors planning to sit for one or more 

AP examinations should consult with their classroom teacher(s) and college counselor as early in the 

year as possible. 

Advisors 

Each student has a faculty Advisor. Advisors are the parent liaisons at Sandia Prep. Advisors meet 

regularly with students about academic plans and progress, as well as ideas and issues of concern. 

After-School Policy 

Families should be aware that there is no after-school care at Sandia Prep nor is there supervision of 

students not involved in school-sponsored activities. Except for students remaining on campus for a 

school-sponsored activity, parents should pick up students by 3:15 p.m. each day. In the event that 

a late pick-up is necessary, students will be expected to report to the Saunders Library and work 

quietly; our library will be open until 4:30 p.m. each day. Students are not allowed to be in the PAC 

for any reason other than for organized school-sponsored functions. The Main Office (100) building 

closes at 4:30 p.m., and parents should not assume that buildings will be open or adults will be on 

campus after that time. Families are urged to have a contingency plan so that all family members are 

aware of alternative rides, meeting places, or phone numbers to call. 

Sandia Prep discourages students from crossing Osuna or El Paraiso on foot after school hours. 

Sandia Prep does not provide crossing guards for any roads surrounding campus. Should students 

decide to leave campus, it is at their own discretion. 

Alcohol and Other Drug Use Policy 

While at school, on school property or at any school-sponsored activity, students who possess (in 

any amount), distribute, sell, use or give evidence of having consumed alcohol, controlled substances 

7

(including cannabidiol oil, CBD), drugs (including medical marijuana), narcotics (not taken at the 

direction of a physician), e-cigarettes or similar vaping devices, or other substances intended to alter 

mood are subject to intervention, discipline, suspension, termination of enrollment contract, and/or 

other appropriate alternatives. Students in possession of drug or alcohol paraphernalia or who are 

knowingly in the company of someone violating the school’s drug and alcohol policy are subject to 

similar disciplinary consequences. 

In cases of suspected alcohol or drug use, Sandia Prep may ask families to have their child drugtested, 

with the results made known to the school’s administration. 

The most likely consequence of alcohol or drug possession or use on campus or at any schoolsponsored 

activity will be dismissal from school. 

Non-Disciplinary Intervention 

In an effort to promote a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, Sandia Prep empowers all 

members of the community to care for each other by responding to student health concerns. If a 

concern is raised regarding drug or alcohol use by a student while outside of school, Sandia Prep 

will support the individual and family, in a non-punitive way, through intervention and counseling. 

All concerns will remain confidential and will be reported to the School Psychologist and Director 

of Wellnes and the School Nurse, who will work with the student and family to provide in-school 

support and community referrals for counseling. 

Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations Policy 

Sandia Preparatory School will make reasonable accommodation to the known disabilities of 

otherwise qualified students as required by the Americans With Disabilities Act. 

Assessment: 

1. When it is brought to the attention of school personnel that a student has or may have a 

disability which requires accommodation in the school setting, school personnel will request 

appropriate documentation of the existence of the condition, and the anticipated effect on 

educational performance. If questions remain concerning the nature, extent, or impact of a 

disability, school personnel may require additional documentation or a second opinion. School 

personnel may solicit suggestions or input from parents and/or health care providers concerning 

possible accommodation. Decisions concerning accommodation are made on an individualized 

basis. The use of a certain accommodation in one situation should not be construed as a 

commitment to implement the same accommodation under different circumstances. Sandia Prep 

does not necessarily implement students' IEP or 504 plans from other schools, in whole or in part. 

2. A committee consisting of the Division Head, Learning Specialist, School Nurse, and parent when 

appropriate, will meet to consider the need for an accommodation for the student. The following 

list, while not exhaustive, provides examples of accommodations which might be implemented 

for students with a specific learning disability or other disability: 

Examples of possible accommodations for students who have documented disabilities: 

1. Provide short-term tutorial support in study and organizational skills as school resources allow. 

2. Allow the use of graph paper for numerical alignment in math. 

8

3. Provide typed test for better readability. 

4. Provide enlarged tests and handouts. 

5. Allow the use of parent-provided auxiliary aids, such as: 

• e-books 

• braille 

• student note taker 

• tape recorders 

• computers/word processors/spell checkers 

6. Allow extended time for tests. 

7. Provide quiet environment for test taking. 

8. Provide field trip transportation for wheelchair-bound students. 

9. Provide the necessary support to modify standardized tests or testing conditions if those 

modifications are consistent with the guidelines furnished by the testing service. For instance, a 

particular test item might be read aloud for clarification. 

10. A student may be exempt from fulfilling the School's foreign language requirement, in the most 

extenuating circumstances, based upon appropriate testing and documentation. 

11. Provide other accommodations as approved by the Division Head. 

Examples of accommodations which create an undue burden or alter the fundamental nature of the 

program as a college preparatory school include: 

1. Take-home tests. 

2. Oral presentations in lieu of written work. 

3. School-provided subject tutoring, outside the extra help typically expected of faculty. 

4. Medical and/or psychological support. 

5. Home-bound instruction. 

6. Scaled down performance expectations, other than those short-term occasions that might 

require reasonable altered exceptions, such as a broken limb, or an extended illness, such as 

mononucleosis. 

7. Reduced course content. 

Families may assume that faculty members will: 

1. Provide a clear description of content, methods of assessment, level of expectations for each 

course taught. 

2. Discuss suggested accommodations with the Division Head and Learning Specialist prior to 

committing to or implementing any accommodation. 

3. Be aware that all decisions concerning appropriate accommodations will be made by the 

appropriate teacher, the Division Head, and the Learning Specialist. 

Athletics 

We encourage all Sandia Prep students to participate in athletics. SPS is special in that there is a nocut 

policy at all levels; if a player comes to practices, he or she can play on a team. Students will be 

placed on a team at the level which coaches feel is appropriate to their age, skill level, and maturity. 

In 9th through 12th grades (and in some cases for 8th grade), we have interscholastic teams for boys 

and girls. Practices are held after school. Middle School teams participate in the Parochial League 

for most sports. Students in these grades also may play interscholastically, such as for tennis. Middle 

9

school practices are usually held after school from 3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

All students must submit the required medical forms and insurance information in order to 

participate in Back To School Camps, physical education, activities, or athletics. These forms are 

provided via email by the School Nurse before the beginning of the school year. 

For more details and additional information, please refer to the Sandia Prep Sports Handbook found 

on the PrepNet Portals. 

Bathrooms 

In order to maintain a safe on campus students are discouraged from using bathroom 

facilities during passing periods, except for cases of emergency. Students will be allowed to use 

the facilities once class has started. Teachers will allow student(s) to leave their room with a pass to 

use the restroom. The pass will be hung on the outside of the bathroom door to signify someone 

is inside. Only two students at a time will be allowed in most bathroom facilities, except in case of 

emergency. The only exceptions are single occupancy facilities. There are a number of single person, 

gender neutral bathrooms around campus to accommodate all students. 

Board of Trustees 

The Board of Trustees of Sandia Prep is responsible for the School’s general health and its success 

as a place of education. Its primary tasks are governance and finance. The Board of Trustees is 

responsible for establishing the policies under which the Head of School administers the School 

— it is not an “operating” board. Additionally, each Trustee has a fiduciary responsibility for the 

funds entrusted to the school and for sound budgetary management. Finally, each Trustee has a 

responsibility to contribute financially to the School. 

Bullying / Harassment / Hazing Policies 

Sandia Prep is committed to ensuring that all students feel physically and emotionally safe. Bullying 

or harassment, like other forms of aggressive and violent behaviors, interferes with the School’s 

ability to educate its students and with a student’s ability to learn. To that end, any act of unkindness 

or cruelty is considered harassment, and will be subject to disciplinary action. (See Disciplinary 

Procedures.) 

“Bullying” or “harassment” is any gesture or written, verbal, graphic, or physical act that is 

reasonably perceived as being dehumanizing, intimidating, hostile, humiliating, or threatening, and 

may be motivated by bias or prejudice based on any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, 

color, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression; or a disability or 

impairment; or by any other distinguishing characteristic. Cyberbullying (electronically transmitted 

acts) is also considered a serious form of harassment. 

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, coercion, 

and other verbal, physical, or psychological misconduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is 

not social or courting behavior. It is uninvited, unwanted, and is often an assertion of power. Sexual 

harassment may include: 

• Physical assault, including rape, or any coerced sexual relations 

10

• Subtle pressure for sexual activity or for a relationship that takes on a sexual or romantic coloring 

• Asking for, pressuring or forcing someone to send digital explicit pictures or “sexts” via any 

electronic means, including social media 

• Distributing, sharing or circulating any “sexts,” texts, or images 

• Any demeaning sexual propositions 

• Unnecessary touching in any form 

• Sexually explicit or suggestive remarks about a person’s physical attributes, clothing, or behavior 

• Sexually stereotyped or sexually charged insults, humor, or verbal abuse 

• Inappropriate personal questions 

• Inappropriate verbal remarks 

• The use of technology in any of the above scenarios, or to send or receive sexually explicit 

images or content 

Incidents of bullying and harassment should be reported to a student’s teacher, advisor, Dean of 

Students, or the School Psychologist and Director of Wellness. Incidents are handled on a case-bycase 

basis, and may result in suspension, probation, termination of enrollment contract, or referral to 

the Council on Academic and Community Integrity (CACI). 

"Hazing" is the unacceptable practice of requiring, requesting, or subjecting any individuals or 

groups to abusive behavior (physical, emotional, or psychological), ridicule and/or humiliating tricks 

or acts as a way of accomplishing a rite of passage or a sense of inclusion to a particular group, 

organization, team, or activity. Sanctions resulting in suspension or dismissal from the team or group 

could be imposed on participants and/or coaches in addition to possible disciplinary action taken by 

Sandia Prep Administration. 

Any of these acts can be considered a felony and are against the law. 

Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students: 

Sandia Prep strives to foster an educational environment that is safe, welcoming, and free from 

stigma and discrimination for all students, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or 

gender expression. In order to facilitate compliance with local, state, and federal laws concerning 

bullying, harassment, privacy and discrimination, we refer to the GLSEN Model District Policy on 

Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students. 

Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices 

Middle School: Middle school students at Sandia Preparatory School may not use electronic devices 

(phones, tablets, gaming devices, laptops, Apple watches, etc.) during the school day. They should 

be turned off and stored in student lockers or left at home for the school day. Students are welcome 

to use the school phones to make necessary calls during the school day. Devices used on campus 

can be confiscated by any member of the faculty and given to the Dean of Students. Confiscated 

items may be returned to the student at the end of the day or the student’s parents/guardian may be 

asked to pick up the device from the Dean of Students. 

Upper School: Upper school students at Sandia Preparatory School may use electronic devices 

(phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) for academic purposes only. Teachers will require students to turn off 

their cell phones and other electronic devices and place them in a designated area when entering 

11

the classroom, to be collected when leaving at the end of the period. Students will not be allowed 

to take their phones or devices when leaving the room during the class period, i.e., bathroom visits. 

Teachers may allow students to access and use their cell phones and other electronic devices in 

class if needed for academic purposes. Additionally, cell phones and other electronic devices must 

be turned off during assembly and any other school activity that requires a student's attention. Cell 

phones and other electronic devices being used inappropriately may be confiscated by any member 

of the faculty and given to the Dean of Students. Confiscated items will be returned to the student 

or their parents/guardian at the end of the school day. Recreational use of electronic devices is 

acceptable during lunch and designated activities only (not in the library.) 

Cheating and Plagiarism 

At Sandia Preparatory School you will learn how to be an intellectually honest scholar. We will teach 

you how to integrate the ideas of others into your own work and to formally cite these sources (be 

they print, visual, or audio). You will become a thoughtful curator of the vast resources available 

to you at the click of a mouse, rather than a superficial observer who clicks only to cut and paste. 

You will understand the meanings of the terms described below (Plagiarism, Common Knowledge, 

Citation, Paraphrasing) and you will use this knowledge to produce work that reflects your personal 

commitment to honesty as well as your support of those individuals who contribute original thoughts 

to all fields of inquiry. When you graduate, you will be prepared to meet the high standards of 

academic integrity required by all colleges and universities. 

Plagiarism: 

From Latin, plagiaries meaning plunderer and plagium meaning kidnapping, plagiarism is using 

someone else's words, ideas, or images without giving proper credit, or without giving any credit 

(i.e., taking another's work and presenting it as your own). Plagiarism then, is really two offenses 

in one: first you steal, and then you lie about it. Because it violates ethical scholarship, something 

Sandia Prep cultivates and expects, (deliberate) plagiarism can land you in trouble at school. Two 

general principles can help you avoid plagiarizing: (I) awareness of giving credit where credit is due; 

and (2) awareness of using appropriate citation methods. 

Citation: 

Simply put, a citation is evidence of your honesty. It is the manner through which you formally 

acknowledge a source that you have used in your work. There are different ways to format citations, 

and at Sandia Prep you will learn many of these. In the Middle School you will learn to format your 

citations in the MLA style. Then, in the Upper School, you will learn other formatting styles including 

Chicago and APA. 

Paraphrasing: 

Writing a research paper with honesty not only means giving credit for the ideas of other writers, 

but also not using the words they've written as your own. One way to avoid stealing another 

writer's prose is to enclose their exact words in quotation marks and include a citation. Another is to 

paraphrase. When you paraphrase, you use the information you learn from a text, but you put it in 

your own words to explain it. You still must provide a citation since the ideas are not your own, but 

you do not have to use quotation marks because the wording belongs to you. Paraphrasing is almost 

always better than directly quoting because it allows you to write a smooth, cohesive paper, in your 

own voice and style. 

12

Common Knowledge: 

Common knowledge is factual information that a community agrees upon and shares among its 

members without reference to an original source. Stating that, "Abraham Lincoln was the 16th 

president of the United States," for example, would not require a formal citation. Still, identifying 

what can truly be considered common knowledge is a skill that must be cultivated through constant 

practice. We recommend, particularly during your middle school years, that you always err on the 

side of caution and cite a source for any information that you present. 

At Sandia Preparatory School, we expect that all information conveyed in your papers, reports, or 

presentations will include appropriate citation and source information. By the time you graduate, 

you will know how to paraphrase, to direct quote, and to use any source material necessary for the 

completion of your work. You will be judicious in identifying common knowledge and well versed in 

how to format citations in a variety of styles. In addition, you will often practice academic honesty 

through the use of online tools like noodletools.com and turnitin.com. Once again, when you 

graduate you will be well prepared to meet post-secondary standards of ethical scholarship. 

Child Abuse and/or Neglect 

Every person in New Mexico who knows or has a reasonable suspicion that a child is being abused or 

neglected is a mandated reporter, according to New Mexico state law. All knowledge or suspicion 

of child abuse or neglect must be reported immediately to the New Mexico Children, Youth and 

Families Department, (800)797-3260, or cyfd.org. If there is any question of whether a child is 

being harmed, the school will always err on the side of child safety and report, as legally required. 

Parents and guardians may or may not be notified when a report is made. The school does not 

assume the responsibility to determine the validity of allegations. Sandia Prep is legally required to 

cooperate with investigations. All information regarding known or suspected child abuse cases are 

treated confidentially and discussed with involved school personnel on a need-to-know basis only. All 

decisions made in the cases of child abuse or neglect will be guided by the safety and well-being of 

the child and compliance with the law. 

College Counseling 

As a college preparatory school, one of the most important things we do is to help each student 

find the college best suited to his or her interests and goals. We provide a comprehensive studentcentered 

college counseling program. While each student is assigned a primary college counselor 

in December of their junior year, information regarding the college admission process is offered at 

each grade level - 9th through 12th grade. Helping freshmen understand the importance of their 

early academic work and their learning styles; providing opportunities for sophomores to explore 

their aptitudes and abilities as they relate to career options and future college choices; and holding 

on-going individual meetings with juniors and seniors are a few of the many components of our 

college counseling program. While we provide all the necessary information and tools for students, 

the college search and application process is ultimately the student's responsibility. 

Juniors initially meet with their primary counselor to develop a list of schools to research and then as 

often as needed throughout the process. We also encourage parents to schedule a family meeting 

with the college counselor in the spring of the student's junior year. As a senior, each student 

works with his or her primary counselor to finalize the list of schools. This counselor will serve as an 

advocate and guide for the student in completing the application process. 

13

Any students applying to schools with a holistic application process should understand that there 

are ethical standards in college admission that we take very seriously. These include but are not 

limited to 1) Sandia Prep students are expected to complete their own applications and write 

their own college essays; 2) We must honestly report disciplinary actions that have occurred 

during Upper School; 3) Students will be asked to sign a FERPA waiver to ensure confidentiality of 

recommendations sent by Sandia Prep faculty; 4) Students may only commit to enroll at one college; 

and 5) Students who apply and are accepted to a college under an Early Decision plan must honor 

the commitment to attend that college. 

We use SCOIR to assist students in the college search process and to submit documents 

electronically to colleges in the application process. Juniors and their parents will be given SCOIR 

accounts in January. Each student is introduced to SCOIR in seminar and is expected to keep his or 

her SCOIR account up to date throughout the process until May 1 of senior year. 

Other suggestions for students: 

Freshmen: 

1. Keep in mind that the semester grades starting in the ninth grade will be on transcripts you send 

to colleges. 

2. Always read your teacher's comments and look for areas where you can improve your academic 

performance. 

3. Get involved in at least two activities at school. But also be careful not to over-schedule. Colleges 

care much more about the quality of your participation than the number of activities for which 

you sign up. 

4. Read the Grade 9 College Handbook and take part in college planning activities. 

Sophomores: 

1. Get involved in your community and at least a few organizations at school. 

2. If you are traveling to other cities on family trips, consider seeing a few colleges. Take a campus 

tour if you can just to become accustomed to the collegiate environment. 

3. Read the Grade 10 College Handbook and take part in college planning activities. 

4. Study for PSAT and Pre-ACT. 

Juniors: 

1. Plan visits to college campuses during school vacations and research colleges online. 

2. Register to take the ACT and/or the SAT exams in the spring. 

3. Consult with your college counselor to determine if you want to register for and take AP tests in 

May. 

4. If you hope to be recruited as a student athlete in NCAA Division I or II, register with the NCAA 

clearinghouse the summer before your senior year. 

Seniors: 

1. You are responsible for keeping track of and meeting all deadlines related to your college 

applications. 

2. Meet with college representatives visiting Sandia Prep in the fall. Whenever you miss a class to 

meet with a college representative, your teacher needs to approve in advance. Sign up for these 

visits on Naviance. 

14

3. Register to take the SAT, ACT, or SAT Subject Tests in the fall if needed. 

4. Finalize a list of schools to which you plan to apply by late October. 

5. Continue to visit colleges using school vacations whenever possible. 

6. Submit the forms required by the college counseling office, with your parents' approval, well in 

advance of your first application deadline. 

7. Consult with your counselor to determine if you want to register for and take AP tests in May. 

8. Make sure that each of your applications is complete by following up with the colleges to which 

you apply. 

9. Notify your counselor promptly as you receive decisions from colleges. 

10. No later than May 1, commit to attend one (and only one) college, notify the Sandia Prep College 

Counseling Office of your decision, and let your other colleges know of your decision. We will 

send your final transcript to that college. 

College Testing 

Colleges in the United States that require a test for admission will accept either the ACT or the SAT. 

Students are responsible for registering to take the ACT (act.org) or SAT (collegeboard.org) and for 

sending their scores to colleges. Sandia Prep typically administers the ACT in April and October of 

each academic year. All SAT tests and ACT tests offered on other dates must be taken at another 

testing location. 

Students with learning differences who require special testing accommodations should coordinate 

with a college counselor to submit the required paperwork to the testing agencies and make 

arrangements to have their test administered at school if necessary. This is a lengthy process, and 

students should begin to make these arrangements as far in advance as possible. 

To help our students prepare for college admission tests, Sandia Prep will administer the following 

tests in October: 

• PSAT 8 in the spring 

• PSAT 10 and the Pre-ACT will be taken by sophomores (10th Grade) in the spring. 

• PSAT/NMSQT – juniors (11th Grade) 

The PreACT is by sophomores (10th Grade) in the spring. This test will provide important information 

on the student’s progress toward meeting college readiness benchmarks set by the ACT and 

guidance regarding academic areas and skills that require improvement to meet those benchmarks. 

The PSAT is the precursor to the SAT. As juniors, students who score highly may be named 

as scholars, finalists, semi-finalists, or commended students in the National Merit Scholarship 

Competition. 

While the PSAT 10, Pre-ACT, and PSAT are not typically considered in the college admission 

process, they are important diagnostic tools that will eventually be used in college guidance, and we 

encourage all students to take the tests seriously and do their best. 

Community Service 

Opportunities to participate meaningfully in the community are offered to individuals, to clubs, and 

to class groups on a voluntary basis. The Helping Hands service clubs for Middle School and Upper 

School are open to interested students. 

15

Dances 

Sandia Prep sponsors dances for students, their dates, and friends. The dances are meant for fun; to 

keep them that way, please observe the following: 

1. No smoking, vaping, or other tobacco products are permitted on campus. 

2. No alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs are permitted on campus. 

3. Don’t loiter in the parking lot or visit your car. 

4. Stay at the dance until you leave for the evening. 

5. Speak with your Class Sponsor before bringing a guest to a dance. 

6. All guests attending SPS dances must have a signed permission form from their school. Guests 

are expected to follow all Sandia Prep rules while on campus 

7. There are dances for both the Middle and Upper Schools. Middle School students should not 

attend Upper School dances and vice versa. 

8. Faculty members will be present as chaperones throughout the dance. 

9. We randomly use breathalyzer tests at dances. 

10. No grinding allowed. Students must face each other when dancing. 

Digital Citizenship Agreement 

PREP Yourself to be a Digital Citizen - Pledge Respect Educate Protect 

Privileges 

The use of the Sandia Preparatory School network is a privilege, not a right. The use of an account 

must be consistent with the educational objectives of Sandia Prep. Sandia Prep, in its sole discretion, 

reserves the right to determine what conduct constitutes a violation of this Policy, and the discipline 

for any such violation. In addition, use of any other Internet-connected resource must comply with 

the rules appropriate for that resource. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or 

state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, material protected by copyright, 

threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade practice. 

Privacy & Security 

Students may not access, upload, download, transmit, display, or distribute: 

1. Offensive Material – content that is in poor taste or could be considered obscene; abusive or 

sexually explicit language, racist, illegal, harassing, or inflammatory. 

2. Distribute Dangerous Material – content that provides direction in the construction of explosives 

or similar devices or instruction or practices that could injure the students themselves or others. 

3. Inappropriate Contacts – materials that can lead to contact with strangers who could potentially 

threaten the student’s health or safety. 

4. Taking, recording,and or posting images/videos of peers, faculty, staff, or the general public 

without their consent or knowledge. 

5. Anything that targets individuals or groups which negatively impacts the Sandia Prep community 

in any way. 

If a student is uncertain as to whether or not a site’s material might be considered inappropriate, the 

student should consult their teacher or a member of the administrative staff for clarification. 

Google Apps for Education Acceptable Use 

Sandia Prep is a G-Suite (formerly Google Apps for Education) school. Our email/drive shares are 

16

primarily for educational use. Students may use G-Suite for personal use subject to the restrictions 

below and additional school rules and policies that may apply. 

Email 

School staff and administrators have access to student email for monitoring purposes. Students 

should have no expectation of privacy on the G-Suite system. 

Limited Personal Use 

Students may use G-Suite tools for personal projects but may not use them for: 

• Unlawful activities. 

• Inappropriate sexual or other offensive content. 

• Threatening another person. 

• Misrepresentation of Sandia Preparatory School, staff, or students. 

Safety 

• Students will tell their teacher or other school employee about any message they receive that is 

inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable. 

• Students are responsible for the use of their individual accounts and should take all reasonable 

precautions to prevent others from being able to use their account. 

• Under no conditions should a user provide his or her password to another person. 

Consequences 

Use of school’s internet is a privilege. Failure to abide by the terms of this policy will result in the 

following disciplinary actions: 

1. Willful damage of computer hardware, computer software (including the deletion of programs 

and/or files), and computer networks will result in the student being responsible for the current 

repair and replacement cost of the damaged software and/or equipment. Any student violating 

the terms of this document will receive appropriate disciplinary action, as defined by the terms 

of this handbook and/or the Consequences for Misuses document shared with students upon 

receiving their computers. Students could lose computer/network privileges, and/or receive 

detention, suspension, or termination of enrollment contract. 

2. The Director of Information Technology or their designee may close an account at any time as 

required. The administration, faculty, and staff of Sandia Preparatory School may make a request 

to the Director of Information Technology or their designee to deny, revoke, or suspend specific 

user accounts based upon violations of this policy. 

Improper Use and Content 

Users may not use the Sandia Prep network for purposes of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of 

others. 

Bullying is the repeated use of a written, verbal, or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or 

any combination thereof, directed at another student that: 

• causes physical or emotional harm to the student or damage to the student’s property; 

• places the student in reasonable fear of physical injury or of damage to property; 

• creates a hostile environment at school for the student; 

• infringes on the rights of the student at school; or, 

• materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. 

17

A hostile environment is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated 

with intimidation, ridicule, or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of 

the student’s education. 

Cyber-bullying involves an act of bullying through the use of technology or any electronic 

communication, including but not limited to electronic mail, internet communications, or instant 

messages. Cyber-bullying also includes the creation of a webpage or blog account in which the 

creator assumes the identity of another person; or, the knowing impersonation of another person 

as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the 

conditions described in the definition of bullying. Cyber-bullying also includes the distribution by 

electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an 

electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting 

creates any of the conditions described in the definition of bullying. 

Sandia Preparatory School shall, in its sole discretion, determine whether such conduct violates this 

Policy and any other policies of Sandia Prep. Users must remember that material distributed through 

the internet is public. On the Internet, there is no central authority, so each site is responsible for its 

own Users. Complaints received from other sites regarding any of our Users will be fully investigated, 

and disciplinary action may be taken as a result. 

“Netiquette” 

Users must abide by accepted rules of network etiquette, including, but not limited to, the following: 

1. Do not reveal personal information – your address or telephone number, or those of students or 

colleagues. 

2. Be polite. Do not be abusive in your messages to others. Use appropriate language and do not 

use vulgarities, or any other inappropriate language. 

3. Do not use the Sandia Prep network in such a way that would disrupt its use by others. 

Directory 

A searchable (and printable) directory of students, parents, and faculty - including names, phone 

numbers, addresses, and e-mail addresses (if provided) - is available in Veracross, which can be 

accessed through the secure PrepNet Parents Portal on the Sandia Prep website (sandiaprep.org). 

Please use the Directory for school purposes ONLY. 

Disciplinary Procedures 

For violations of school rules, the following procedures will be used: 

The teacher observing or dealing with the breach of conduct may act alone, informing the student 

of what violation has occurred and seeking to work toward a solution together; including assigning 

lunch or after-school detention to deal with the situation. If the issue is chronic or if the agreed upon 

solution doesn’t remedy the situation, the parents will be contacted. 

For chronic or more serious instances, including all cases of academic dishonesty, the teacher will 

refer the case to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will inform the child’s advisor. The 

Dean of Students, and possibly the advisor, will collect information and have a meeting to discuss the 

18

student’s past actions and record, and the seriousness of the current or repeated offenses. The Dean 

of Students will then decide on an appropriate consequence, notifying the student, parents, and 

advisor. Sandia Prep does not allow corporal punishment. 

Sandia Prep values a community that is kind and respectful. However, when students need help 

resolving a conflict or if small behaviors are disrupting others, at the school's discretion students may 

be referred to CACI, as referred to in the paragraph below. 

Council for Academic and Community Integrity (CACI) 

At the discretion of the Dean of Students, disciplinary issues may be referred to the CACI. Once a 

referral is made, and initial interviews of the parties involved have been conducted, CACI will meet 

as soon as possible. CACI is responsible for students adhering to rules of the Student Handbook, 

and Sandia Prep’s Code of Academic and Community Integrity 

Selection for the committee will be based on students completing a short written application. The 

application will require students to submit a resume detailing past leadership experience, and a 

short 250-500 word essay describing their interest in the position. Faculty members will be selected 

by the Administration, and efforts will be made to balance members to ensure the greatest level 

of representation of our diverse faculty pool. To assure some continuity, student members on the 

council, as well as faculty members, are encouraged to serve for two years. 

Students who are referred to the council will have a chance to tell their side of the story at the 

hearing, which will occur during Upper School lunches in the boardroom. Students referred to the 

committee may bring an advocate that could be a fellow student, faculty member, or their advisor. 

The faculty member or student who made the referral will also be present. All eight members of the 

council, as well as the Dean and two faculty sponsors will also be present. The Executive Student 

Government Association (EGSA) President will preside over the hearing. Witnesses, with prior 

approval, may be called. Parents may convey their concerns to CACI via writing, but are not invited 

to appear before the Council. Decisions will be made by majority vote in CACI, with the ESGA 

President casting the deciding vote in case of a tie. 

Recommendations by CACI seek to restore integrity, honesty, and wellbeing to the community. 

The decisions of the council will be educational and restorative, not punitive. The Dean will give 

the final approval of all decisions made, and may ask CACI to reconsider their decision, or make a 

new one. The students on the council cannot make recommendations of any kind for the removal of 

students from the school community. That decision rests solely with the Dean of Students and other 

administrators. All decisions, testimony, and deliberations are subject to the utmost confidentiality, 

however decisions made may be shared with faculty. Further guidance and bylaws of CACI may be 

found in the forthcoming CACI constitution. 

Distinguished Scholars 

Distinguished Scholars are those students who complete 28 or more course credits by the end 

of their senior year and graduate with a 3.5 GPA in the process. Those students may choose to 

emphasize a particular area (math, science, history, communications, performing arts, etc.) or they 

may take courses in a variety of areas. Distinguished Scholars will be recognized on their transcripts, 

on their diplomas, and in the graduation program. 

19

Dress Code 

Sandia Prep is an educational community that, as earlier stated, prides itself on its relaxed and 

informal environment; however, we recognize the need to have guidelines when it comes to dress. 

We encourage students to wear clothing that upholds the standards of personal and academic 

integrity and promotes respect for all its members. A student’s dress must not interfere with the 

positive learning environment, interfere with the operation of the school, disrupt the educational 

process, invade the rights of others, or create a reasonably foreseeable risk of such interference 

or invasions of rights as determined by the Administration. Examples of inappropriate attire 

include clothing with slogans or pictures relating to alcohol, tobacco, drugs, sexual connotations 

or objectifications, and items that are in poor taste or could be considered obscene; racist, illegal, 

harassing, inflammatory, abusive or contain sexually explicit language. 

Unacceptable dress: 

1. Exposed undergarments 

2. Clothing that is excessively revealing 

3. Sagging pants exposing boxer shorts 

4. Boys’ tank tops, muscle shirts, or mesh shirts 

If the dress code is violated, the student will be required to change into appropriate clothing and 

parents may be notified. Continued violations will result in more serious consequences. 

Driving on Campus 

Driving on our campus is a privilege. This privilege may be revoked for parking in the wrong area, 

visiting cars during school hours without permission, committing any careless act with a motor 

vehicle, leaving campus without permission (see Standards of Behavior), or as a consequence of a 

disciplinary situation. The speed limit on campus is 10 mph. (See Parking.) 

Drop/Add Courses 

During the first two weeks of a course, the course may be dropped or added without penalty. The 

teacher, College Counseling, the student's advisor, and the Division Head must approve this action. 

After that time, a grade of WP or WF will be assigned and placed on the transcript. No classes may 

be dropped after nine weeks of a semester, unless circumstances are extraordinary and approved by 

the Division Head. 

Eligibility to Participate in Athletics 

To determine eligibility to participate in athletics, we generally use the New Mexico Activities 

Association’s (NMAA) rules. Sandia Prep averages the grades received in ALL classes except PE. 

Students must have a 2.0 average to qualify. In some cases, a change in GPA during the season may 

result in a student's disqualification. Please refer any questions to the Athletic Director. In some 

circumstances, disciplinary action by the School may result in a student being deemed ineligible to 

participate in athletics for a portion of a season, a full season or longer. 

The School is allowed by NMAA up to seven school days from the last day of the grading period 

for grades to be gathered and recorded, and the eligibility/ineligibility of student athletes to be 

determined for the next grading period. If a student with an "Incomplete" grade makes up the work, 

the incomplete grade must be remedied by the end of the day that the Athletic Director checks the 

20

academic eligibility status of all students following the conclusion of a particular grading period. 

Event/Trip Approval & Participation Guidelines 

These guidelines are intended to aid in communication between all involved parties regarding 

students asking to attend a school event or trip that would take them away from classes for two or 

more days. These guidelines may also be used for personal time away from campus, such as college 

visits, etc. 

1. Trip sponsors are to email a list of potential student participants to teachers and the Dean of 

Students no later than two weeks prior to an event or trip. 

2. Teachers will need to notify the Dean of Students within three days of receiving the email list with 

specific concerns regarding a student or students. 

3. The Dean of Students will gather information and communicate with student/teachers/parents/ 

sponsors to evaluate and make a decision if a student should attend the event or trip. The Dean 

of Students will notify all concerned of a decision no later than one to two weeks prior to the 

event. In some cases, students may be asked to work additionally with teachers upon return from 

the event or trip. 

4. Students approved to attend an event/trip will gather assignments and/or receive a Homework 

Form about one week prior to the event. If received, the Homework Form is to be used to gather 

homework ONLY. Teachers should attempt to inform students of work that will be missed and 

to provide due dates for missed work or test. Writing "Unknown" is not helpful to the student 

nor is assigning work on a computer, as a computer may not be available on all types of trips. 

This is not a permission form and is intended to be used by the students on a trip and when they 

return. Deadlines for assignments or make-ups should be specified on the form. The students 

are asked to follow this process to show responsibility for their work and to notify and have a 

conversation with teachers regarding their involvement in an extracurricular activity. The form will 

then be signed by the Dean of Students and the event or trip sponsor at least one to two days 

prior to the event or trip. The sponsor is responsible for making sure all students have completed 

a homework form with signatures of teachers and the Dean of Students prior to leaving. If 

circumstances have changed since giving student approval for participation, please contact the 

Dean of Students and the event sponsor immediately. 

5. Any further questions may be directed to the Dean of Students. 

Exams 

Students are not allowed to take a final exam prior to the scheduled date and time. In the case of a 

serious conflict, only the Head of Upper School may give permission for an alternative exam time. 

Field Trips 

During the school year, a large number of field trips are scheduled. In order to go, students need 

to make sure the permission form is signed (it’s part of the Emergency Information/Consent Form). 

Also, remember that all school rules apply when on a field trip (or school-sponsored trip). 

Food Delivery 

Students may not have food delivered to campus. If food is part of a special event, i.e. class 

presentation, and must be delivered, the delivery must receive prior approval from the Dean of 

Students. 

21

Fundraising Policy 

All fundraising activities, for any purpose, require the approval of the Director of Development. 

Grade Point Average 

In the Upper School, we calculate a student's grade point average (GPA) by averaging the grades 

received in all classes taken at Sandia Prep. We do not include grades from PE or from other schools. 

In the Middle School, we do not include grades from PE, Rotation, or from other schools. 

We use this GPA in several ways. It is used to determine eligibility for the National Honor Society, 

athletic participation, and Senior privileges. A student's GPA is also reported to colleges. 

Grading System 

Grades are a measure of how well you’ve done alongside others who have studied the same thing 

at the same time as you. Grades let you know where you stand. They are intended as neither a 

punishment nor a primary inducement. You are in school for an education, not for grades. Provided 

you have worked hard, it is okay to get a “C.” 

Grading tends to be tougher at Sandia Prep than at other schools. However, colleges and 

universities realize that this is the case with independent schools, and will look at your transcript in 

this light. We also explain to colleges and universities that, because our classes are small, we do not 

rank you in your class. 

Letter grades are placed on a 4.0* numerical scale to help compute your GPA. The grading standards 

are as follows: 

A+ = 4.0 

A = 4.0 

A- = 3.7 

B+ = 3.3 

B = 3.0 

B- = 2.7 

C+ = 2.3 

C = 2.0 

C- = 1.7 

D+ = 1.3 

D = 1.0 

D- = 0.7 

F = 0 

We assess and report academic progress every nine weeks. In Upper School, final examinations are 

given the week before each semester’s end. In Middle School, there are no final exams, except for 

Upper School courses being taken for credit. Each teacher will explain his or her grading system to 

you during the first week of school. 

Incomplete grades must be made up by the end of the first week of the next marking period. For 

eligibility. (See Eligibility to Participate in Athletics.) 

Graduation Requirements 

— 4 credits in English 

— 3 credits in History, including U.S. History in 11th grade 

— 3 credits in Mathematics, including Algebra II 

22

— 3 credits in Science 

— 2 credits in the same Modern Language in the Upper School 

— 1 credit in Visual or Performing Arts 

— 1 credit in Visual or Performing Arts or Communications 

— 1/2 credit in Digital Media and Communications 

— 1 credit in PE (At least one year-long course in any grade.)* 

— Successful completion of Senior Capstone 

An additional five elective courses must be taken to bring the credit hour total to 23 ½. A minimum 

of 23 ½ credits is required to graduate. 

To allow for flexibility, the Prep graduation requirement is 23 ½ credits as listed above; however, 

college counseling suggests that students who are interested in the most selective colleges consider 

taking core classes beyond the minimum. 

* The Upper School P.E. credit can be earned through participation in an athletic activity. This is 

defined by competing against an opponent(s). A student must complete two sports seasons, ½ credit 

each, of a single sport or multiple sports to meet the P.E. requirement. At least ½ credit must be 

earned by the end of the student’s ninth-grade year, with the second ½ credit being earned by the 

end of the student’s 10th-grade year. Any student not earning at least ½ credit of P.E. by the end of 

their ninth grade will be enrolled in P.E. in their 10th-grade year. A student who has not completed 

the full-year requirement by the end of 10th grade will be enrolled in P.E. for their 11th-grade year. 

For students participating in athletic activity outside of Prep, a Sandia Prep Physical Education 

Exemption form must be signed by their parent(s)/guardian(s) and coach(es). Forms can be obtained 

from the Athletic Director or found on the Parent Portal. All athletic activities must be approved 

by the Athletic Director/P.E. Department Chair to receive P.E. credit. (This policy doesn’t apply to 

eighth-grade students who are participating on sports teams at the upper school level.) 

Students who are enrolled in a P.E. class may not earn an additional credit for athletic activity. 

Honor Society (National), Lion and Unicorn Chapter 

The purpose of the National Honor Society is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a 

desire to render service, to promote worthy leadership and to encourage character development. 

The Lion and Unicorn Chapter at Sandia Prep is an active service organization. To be eligible for 

consideration, a student must have been at SPS for one year, be an 11th- or 12th-grader, and have 

earned a 3.5 GPA in courses taken at Sandia Prep. 

Independent Study 

Students wishing to explore an area of study more deeply may do so one year or one semester 

through independent study. To register for independent study students must: 

1. Choose a faculty mentor. 

2. Submit a proposal outlining the purpose of the course, the materials used, assignments, 

assessments, and a schedule of meetings with a faculty advisor. 

3. Complete a registration form (pick up from Division Head.) 

A student must take six courses in addition to the independent study. 

23

Leaving Campus 

Students are expected to be on campus for the entirety of the school day, including study and 

activity periods. Students must have an acceptable reason and special permission, granted in writing, 

from parents/guardians to leave campus during the day. Acceptable reasons include illness, a family 

emergency, unavoidable medical appointments, and school business (with the permission of your 

parents/guardians and your teacher). Unacceptable reasons to leave campus are lunch (unless a 

senior has earned privilege), personal errands, and work. All requests to leave campus must be 

approved and signed by the Upper School Head, the Middle School Head, or the Dean of Students, 

and the approved, signed request must be shown to the Security staff member on duty. We need to 

know where all students are in case of an emergency. Blank forms may be obtained at the front desk. 

Library 

The Saunders Library is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday. All members of the 

Sandia Prep community are welcome to use the library and its resources for research, reading, and 

quiet study. If a student needs help finding materials, the student should ask a librarian. The library's 

section of Sandia Prep's PrepNet Student Portal is a good resource for your studies. Our Online 

Databases section requires a separate password for each database; those are listed under the name 

of the resource. 

Lions and Unicorns 

When a student enters Sandia Prep, they automatically becomes either a Lion or a Unicorn, the 

two traditional intraschool teams. The tradition, based upon Lewis Carroll’s book, Through the 

Looking Glass, dates back to the original Sandía School’s founding in 1932. Lion and Unicorn Day is 

celebrated annually during Spirit Week/Homecoming. 

Lockers 

Each middle school student will be assigned a book locker and a PE locker. Upper school students 

in PE will be assigned a PE locker and may request a book locker. Please use the locker for your 

books and possessions. However, it is each student's responsibility not to be a willing victim for 

someone who might steal or “borrow” your possessions. Be sure to use locks. Do not share lockers 

or combinations with anyone. 

Lost and Found 

The lost and found collection area is located in the Russell Student Center. Items such as 

miscellaneous clothing, notebooks, and lunch boxes should be dropped off here. More valuable 

items such as cell phones, computers, and backpacks should be turned in to the front office where 

they will be signed over to the Director of Security, who will then attempt to find the owner of the 

item and secure the item until it can be returned to its rightful owner. Periodically, any remaining 

unclaimed items are donated to local charities. 

Medical and Health 

Medical Forms: 

All students enrolled in school must provide satisfactory evidence of the required immunizations, 

as required by New Mexico law. Each year, before the fall term begins, parents must complete 

online medical forms for each student, including emergency information, health history and current 

conditions, insurance details, approval for over-the-counter medications, and the Consent Form. 

24

In addition, two forms must be completed and submitted via hard copy: the Medical History 

Questionnaire; and the Medical Evaluation (physical) form, which must be signed by your physician. 

New students also will need to submit a vaccination record. These forms are necessary for your child 

to participate in PE and any school activity. For more information, contact the School Nurse. 

Health Conditions: 

It is our goal to identify and safely care for students with acute and chronic health conditions. A 

health information form must be completed at the beginning of the school year and will be reviewed 

by the school nurse. Parents and legal guardians need to complete the form and contact the 

school nurse so that individualized health plans and emergency action plans can be developed and 

implemented. 

Illness: 

It is sometimes difficult to know when to keep a student home from school when ill. A student 

that is ill needs to be away from school for rest and proper recovery and to prevent the spread of 

illness to other students and staff. A visit to the healthcare provider may also be needed for medical 

evaluation and treatment. Parents/guardians will be called and are responsible for picking up 

students who present, or become ill, at school. Please contact the School Nurse for help in making 

the decision to keep your child home when ill. 

Medical Administration: 

Please make every effort to give your child medication at home. Over the counter medications may 

be provided to the student only after an evaluation and written parental/guardian permission is 

verified on the "Permission to Receive Over the Counter Medications" section of the Health History 

Questionnaire. Students may receive only one dose of medication per day from the nurse/certified 

athletic trainer. Students needing prescription medications must submit written authorization for the 

medication to be given during school hours on the "Health Care Provider's Medication Order and 

Authorization" form. Parents/guardians are responsible for having the medication form completed 

by the healthcare provider and supplying the needed medication and/or supplies to the school. 

Please contact the School Nurse for health and medication administration forms, emergency action 

plans, additional information, and assistance. 

Medical Leave of Absence (Student) 

A medical leave of absence may be granted by the School for the treatment and management of 

a student’s physical or mental health condition. Medical leaves are considered when a condition 

significantly interferes with the student’s ability to participate in the School’s program, a student 

requires hospitalization, and/or the care required is beyond the practical limits that the School is able 

to provide or accommodate. A recommendation for medical leave may be initiated by the School and 

include members of the Administrative Team, the Dean of Students, Advisor, Psychologist, School 

Nurse and/or the Division Head. In the event of a community provider or healthcare organization 

recommending medical leave for a student, this request is reviewed by the appropriate members of 

the School team, and release of information and supporting records may be requested or deemed 

necessary to review the request and conduct appropriate school planning for the student. 

25

All medical leaves of absence are required to have appropriate supporting documentation and a 

signed release of information for the initial approval of request, medical clearance for return to 

school, and appropriate planning conducted prior to the student’s return to school. Professional 

consultation and/or sufficient documentation from medical and behavioral health providers is 

required. It the responsibility of the family to coordinate signed releases of information, provide 

relevant records, coordinate school forms, and communicate school expectations and policies to 

relevant providers for school review. 

Medical leaves tend to fall into two categories: short-term (less than two weeks) and long-term (more 

than two weeks, but no more than an academic year). A student on a short-term medical leave that 

does not interfere with major obligations is expected to make up the missed work in a timely manner. 

The Division Head will coordinate arrangements for completing academic work while the student is 

away. 

When a student is on long-term medical leave, the Division Head will consult with the academic 

departments and the student’s classroom teachers to determine what work will be required of the 

student to meet the requirements of the course(s). Students on a medical leave that requires missing 

more than 20% of classroom time may not be able to receive credit for the course work of a semester 

or year. 

Medical leaves are confidential and are not recorded on a student’s permanent academic record. 

When medical leave is extended beyond one semester, a decision about the student’s ability to hold 

their place in school will be made after consultation. If a student is unable to return to school for a 

reason of medical condition, it is expected that the student will withdraw. In the case of withdrawal 

for medical reasons, the student is eligible to apply for readmission at a later date. 

For students returning to school after medical leave, documentation and clearance from an 

appropriate health care provider is required for review prior to return. The school decision to approve 

a student to return will be made by the Administrative Team and relevant Health & Wellness team 

members. For example, School Psychologist and Director of Wellness provides support for 

mental health, the School Nurse provides support for medical conditions, and the Athletic Trainer 

provides support for return to athletics. Evaluation and planning for a student’s safe return to 

school will be conducted, with review of records and provider recommendations, and application 

to the school environment. The team will communicate with the student’s parent or guardian and, 

when appropriate, meet with the student to discuss transition planning. The team, together with 

the family, will consider appropriate school accommodations, special considerations, safeguards, 

and a communication plan, in the event of concerns and as appropriate to the student’s condition. 

Continued participation in treatment may be a condition of return, for example, when a student 

has been on medical leave for mental health reasons or undergoing rehabilitation. The decision of 

whether a student is ready to return is made by the School and will be based upon the Administrative 

team’s confidence in the student’s ability to benefit from and participate fully in the School’s program, 

as well as the School’s ability to provide the recommended support for the student. 

Odyssey Scholars Program 

The Odyssey Scholars Program is a special academic program offered at Sandia Prep designed to 

challenge and inspire our highest level students. The ideal Odyssey Scholar is one who is highly 

26

motivated, responsible, independent, innovative, and curious. The program functions much like a 

“Capstone” project in that it targets a student who desires in-depth study in a particular academic or 

artistic area and challenges them academically, intellectually, and creatively. Students will apply for 

entry into the program at the end of their Sophomore year, and, if accepted, will participate during 

their junior and senior years. The number of students accepted to the program will be limited to 

12 per class. Scholars will design a two year course of study for themselves that will include various 

forms of research, writing, observation, and hands-on activity, and will culminate in a major public 

presentation at the end of the senior year. Odyssey Scholars will be celebrated at the end of their 

senior year and will receive special recognition on their transcripts, on their diplomas and at the 

Graduation Ceremony. 

Off Limits Areas 

During the school day, students are not allowed in the parking lot and track area west of the West 

Gym, the East Field, the garden, the softball field, or the restrooms outside of the Field House, 

unless they are engaged in a supervised activity. 

Outdoor Leadership Program 

Sandia Prep offers an Outdoor Leadership Program (OLP). 

Middle School: 

Every student in the Middle School has an opportunity to go on a camping trip each year. Sometimes 

the trips are organized so that an entire class may go. Other times, smaller groups may go. 

Upper School: 

Students can develop their leadership and camping skills in the Camping Associates program. One 

of the main responsibilities of the Camping Associates is to assist with Middle School camping 

trips. Upper school students also may participate on OLP trips. These programs offer experiential 

opportunities for students in good academic standing. Students are required to keep up with their 

regular schoolwork while they are participating in OLP trips. 

In any outdoor activity, there may be some physical risk involved. We want students to know that 

from the beginning, so that they can make an informed decision. And of course, as with every school 

trip and event, all of our rules apply whether on campus or in the mountains. 

Within the Outdoor Leadership Program, in alignment with the values of Sandia Preparatory School, 

we allow housing and tenting to be selected by the students with parent approval to accomodate all 

Prep students. In adherence with Sandia Prep’s handbook, on any Sandia Prep trip, sexual misconduct 

is not tolerated and is grounds for expulsion. 

Prior to all overnight trips, participant selected housing will be shared with parents/guardians to 

ensure that all parties are comfortable with their child’s housing. Reasonable accommodations will be 

made to ensure the comfort of both the participant and their guardians. 

Parking 

In order to leave during the school day, students must check out with the guard at the main school 

27

entrance on Osuna Road. There will be no student parking allowed on the street on El Paraiso. Cars 

parked illegally will be recorded and then towed. 

Pets on Campus 

Students may not bring pets to campus without prior approval from the Dean of Students. 

Probation 

Academic: 

In the 8th grade and Upper School, if the GPA is lower than 2.0 at the end of any marking period or 

if a student is not making adequate progress, the student will be placed on academic probation. A 

student may be subject to dismissal if progress does not occur. Probation implies a watchful attitude 

by the School toward all aspects of a student’s performance. 

At the end of the school year, if the GPA for core classes is lower than 2.0, the Division Head and 

other administrators will meet with the student and his or her parents to discuss the options for the 

next year (see Grade Point Average). A student who earns a 2.3 grade point average or lower may be 

required to attend study hall in lieu of an elective or study period until the student’s grade improves. 

Behavioral: 

A student is placed on behavioral probation when their behavior has reached a point where the 

school needs to warn both the student and the family that continued unacceptable behavior may 

result in termination of enrollment contract. If a student is suspended, they are automatically placed 

on behavioral probation. 

Sandia Prep will continue to support students and their families whenever possible. However, the 

School can and will place a student on behavioral probation or dismiss a student for any misbehavior 

outside the school’s jurisdiction, if it is deemed that this misbehavior is detrimental to the school in 

any way. 

Psychological Services/Health and Wellness 

Social, emotional, and physical wellbeing are essential for each student, our school community 

and culture. The mental health, self-awareness, relationship skills, responsible decision-making 

and growth of each student is individually considered within the educational philosophy, academic 

program and across all recreational, clubs, and athletic opportunities. The School Psychologist and 

Director of Wellness, School Nurse, and Athletic Trainer comprise the Health and Wellness team and 

are involved in supporting students and programs throughout the Sandia Prep experience. 

When a student is experiencing mental health or relationship issues, they may access support and 

services directly from the psychologist. The School Psychologist and Director of Wellness receives 

referrals and may identify concerns from students, families, teachers, and administrators. The 

School Psychologist and Director of Wellness provides a variety of services including the following: 

instructional delivery of social, emotional, and wellness education within the grade level curriculum, 

individual and group support during activities and trips, staff professional development, consultative 

services with families and teachers, and direct therapeutic services with students. Recommendations, 

referrals, and communication with community therapists and providers may also be provided and be 

determined necessary to support students. 

28

All students have direct access to the psychologist to confidentially discuss concerns and receive 

short-term counseling assistance. The rights of all children to individually consent to and access 

mental health services is protected under New Mexico law. Parents are encouraged to discuss issues 

and concerns that are affecting their child and partner with the school to support their child. Parents 

may not refuse mental health services upon behalf of their child (New Mexico Children’s Code Article 

6A: Children’s Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Act). Confidentiality is not maintained 

when there is significant risk of danger/harm to self or others (suicidal, homicidal, or life-threatening 

behavior). Parents and legal guardians will be notified and provided with guidance and support for 

additional evaluation and treatment recommendations 

Religious Holidays 

Students are encouraged to observe their religious holidays. To make up assignments on a 

reasonable schedule, teachers will work with students who miss school because of religious 

commitments. It is helpful if students notify their teachers in advance when they anticipate an 

absence for religious reasons. 

Senior Capstone 

Senior Capstone is a program required of all seniors that will provide them with the opportunity to 

design an independent project for the final weeks of their spring semester. The program may take 

the form of academic research, community service, exposure to a vocation or profession, an artistic 

endeavor, or any other idea approved by the Senior Capstone Committee. 

The Senior Capstone will be given one of the following grades on the transcript: 

• Pass with Distinction--exceeds expectations and requirements 

• Pass--completed all work expected and required 

• Fail--does not complete all work expected and required (Project will be considered incomplete, 

and diploma will not be conferred until completion.) 

Senior students will be expected to comply with the following requirements: 

1. Eligibility 

a. Good academic standing: 2.0 overall GPA and no grade below a C- at the time the experience 

begins 

b. Good behavioral standing. No student who has been placed on behavioral probation will be 

allowed to participate. 

c. If a student is ineligible for either of these reasons, an alternative plan will be worked out, and 

the student will remain on campus for the three week duration. 

2. Senior Capstone Application must be completed and submitted to the Director of Special 

Academic Programs by the initial application deadline. Project applications will be reviewed by 

the Senior Capstone Committee and returned to the students for corrections and additions. A 

final deadline date will be provided. 

3. Students are required to have both an on-campus mentor and an off-campus supervisor. Both of 

these must be adults and unrelated to the student. 

4. Students will be released from classes for the last three weeks of the senior year, and are 

expected to spend a total of at least 30 hours per week working on their Senior Capstone 

Project. 

5. At the end of the project, students will write a two to three page paper describing how 

29

their project served to answer their essential research question. They also will present their 

experiences in two public forums: An evening presentation of 12-15 minutes for parents and 

other community members; and a special advisory presentation of approximately five minutes for 

younger students 

Snow Policy & School Closings 

We will close or delay opening school according to the decision announced by the Albuquerque 

Public Schools, unless specifically published otherwise. If APS closes due to problems specific to APS 

(e.g. gas leaks, frozen pipes, inaccessible parking lots, school bus problems), Sandia Prep will be 

open, and if Sandia Prep experiences a problem on campus, the School may close when APS is open. 

Check your email for an announcement from the school and watch local TV news for the most up-todate 

information about school closures or delays. 

Note: Except in extraordinary circumstances, we will not dismiss students early due to inclement 

weather, once the school day has begun and students have arrived. If the roads are bad and school is 

in session, parents should make their own decision about their child’s safety in traveling. Under these 

circumstances, the child's absence is excused, provided the parent calls the School and follows the 

proper procedures for absences. 

Snow Delay Schedule 

10:00 - 10:50 a.m. 1st Class 

10:55 - 11:45 a.m. 2nd Class 

11:50 - 12:30 p.m. Middle School Lunch & Upper School Activity/Advisory 

12:30 - 1:10 p.m. Upper School Lunch & Middle School Activity/Advisory 

1:15 - 2:05 p.m. 3rd Class 

2:10 - 3:00 p.m. 4th Class 

Social Media 

Sandia Prep values the strong relationships teachers and students develop both in and out of the 

classroom. However, we also recognize that for the protection of both faculty and students, some 

boundaries are necessary. For this reason, faculty, staff, and anyone employed by the school are 

not allowed to access students’ social media accounts, cannot allow students to have access to their 

personal accounts, or post students' names or photos on any social media. 

Standards of Behavior 

We want our environment at Sandia Prep to be conducive to each individual’s personal, social, and 

intellectual growth. To foster this, students must recognize that certain responsibilities accompany 

individual freedom and opportunity. These responsibilities are necessary for an orderly and properly 

functioning school community. Sandia Prep recognizes that activities that take place entirely off 

campus, or electronically, can have a profound impact on the lives of students on campus. Therefore, 

activities that take place away from school may subject the involved to disciplinary action at school. 

The following activities are considered unacceptable for Sandia Prep students: 

1. Stealing and/or lying 

2. Cheating (see Cheating and Plagiarism) 

3. Disrespect for others, hazing, or disrespect for the school’s facilities (vandalism) 

30

4. Engaging in sexual activity 

5. Drug and/or alcohol use and violation (see Alcohol & Other Drug Use Policy) 

6. Smoking, e-cigarettes, or other uses of tobacco on campus, including vaping and smokeless 

tobacco 

7. Technology use that violates the Digital Citizenship Agreement 

8. Weapons of any kind may not be brought to school. 

9. Unwanted physical contact 

Sandia Prep students should also be aware of these additional school policies: 

1. Sandia Prep is a closed campus. Students may not leave the campus without being legitimately 

excused or signed out. Leaving campus is a major violation which may result in suspension and 

revocation of driving privileges. 

2. Sandia Prep expects students to be at school, in class, on time. Habitual tardiness, lateness, or 

cutting class will result in disciplinary action. 

3. Students are not allowed in the parking lot during the school day. If students need go to their car 

during the school day, they must get a pass from the Dean of Students. 

4. Students may not post inflammatory or threatening remarks on social media about the school, 

the faculty, or other students. Doing so indicates a lack of positive engagement with the school 

community and could lead to disciplinary actions. 

5. Responsible behavior is expected of students in assemblies, classes, school dances, study halls, 

library, clubs, and on school buses. 

6. Students are to refrain from using offensive language or gestures. 

7. Gambling is prohibited on campus. 

8. Students are responsible for maintaining a neat and attractive campus. 

9. Students are urged to be responsible in their displays of affection and are to refrain from overly 

demonstrative behavior. 

10. Driving is a privilege. Students are expected to adhere to driving and parking regulations (see 

Driving on Campus and Parking) 

11. Students are reminded that Sandia Prep does have a dress code (see Dress Code) 

12. Squirt guns, roller blades, skateboards, and toys should not be brought to school. 

13. Guest visits during the school day must be pre-approved by the Dean of Students. After that, 

they must sign in at the Security building or main desk to get a visitor’s pass. 

14. Any senior who violates a major school rule, as listed above, during the senior year should not 

expect to walk at graduation. 

See also Disciplinary Procedures. 

Student Government Association 

Sandia Prep’s Student Government Association (SGA) is made up of elected officers from each of 

the seven grades and is a vital part of our school. Classes elect their officers as soon as possible. 

Executive SGA officers for the Upper School are elected in spring of each year. In the fall, a 

committee of Middle School students will be elected to serve as the Middle School SGA. 

SGA runs many activities (including Lion and Unicorn Day, Homecoming Weekend, and dances.) 

Students are welcome to make suggestions for activities and/or projects at SGA meetings, which are 

open to all students and faculty. 

31

Study Abroad 

The opportunity to travel, live and study abroad enhances a student’s education by exposing 

him or her to another culture, language, history, and way of life. Interested students may obtain 

an “Application for Off-Campus Study” from the Registrar. This application requests detailed 

information about the off-campus program, including the academic program of study, housing 

arrangements, college counseling, and health services provided. The application requires the 

signatures of the student, parents, current advisor, and the Upper School Head and is reviewed by 

the Study Abroad Committee. No application will be considered after February 28. Sandia Prep 

generally limits approval to a maximum of four students per academic year. Students who elect to 

study abroad need to be aware of the following terms and conditions: 

• Sandia Prep does not include courses taken while studying abroad on the Sandia Prep 

transcript. A transcript from the overseas school can be included as an attachment to the 

Sandia Prep transcript. 

• Grades earned through study abroad are not used in the calculation of eligibility for National 

Honor Society or other Sandia Prep honors and awards. 

• All students who are approved to study abroad are required to complete an English class 

while abroad. Upon returning to Sandia Prep, students must complete a full year of English 

during each remaining year, regardless of the amount of English studied while overseas. 

• Sandia Prep’s graduation requirement in the arts, as well as the U.S. History requirement 

cannot be met through courses taken abroad. The courses must be completed when the 

student returns, unless these courses/requirements were completed prior to studying abroad. 

Students must complete a course plan for their remaining years at Sandia Prep before 

approval will be granted for study abroad. 

• Students can earn a maximum of 2.5 credits per semester of study abroad to be applied 

to the 23 (or 23.5) credit graduation requirement, regardless of the number of courses 

completed while overseas. 

• Students who do not complete an approved study abroad program will not be re-admitted 

to Sandia Prep until the beginning of a new semester. Exceptions to this rule may be made 

in the event that the return to the U.S. is due to a health concern, family emergency, political 

upheaval, or safety consideration. 

• If the course of study completed during the absence differs from that which was approved, 

Sandia Prep may not award credit for the work completed during the absence. 

Any disciplinary incident that takes place while a student is abroad will be reviewed by Sandia 

Prep through the normal disciplinary process. In the case of a serious violation of school rules, the 

student may not be permitted to return to Sandia Prep. Sandia Prep requests information regarding 

disciplinary action from the host school, at the conclusion of the student’s semester(s) away. 

The fees charged to students who are studying abroad are determined according to the following 

policy, established by the Sandia Prep Board of Trustees, and approved February 8, 2011: 

“When a student is approved to study abroad for a semester, the family is required to pay 65% of 

the tuition for the year. This offsets administrative costs and holds a place for the student upon his or 

her return. No part of this charge is a deposit, and none of it can be refunded should a student elect 

not to return to Sandia Prep. On rare occasions, the Study Abroad Committee may approve a fullyear 

program. In such instances, the family is required to pay 25% of the tuition for the year to offset 

administrative costs and hold a place for the student.” 

32

Supply Store 

The Supply Store, located in the Russell Student Center, is a Parents Association fundraiser that 

offers basic school supplies for students. Students may purchase supplies during the Supply Sale, 

which takes place the first few days of school. Supplies also are available five days a week during the 

school year. 

The store is staffed by parent volunteers and is open generally from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every 

school day. Students may purchase such things as calculators, notebooks, boards for science 

projects, batteries, pens, pencils, photography supplies, etc. All are available at reasonable prices. 

Students may purchase items with cash, credit/debit card, or use an account system (wherein parents 

deposit money into an account against which a student may make purchases). 

Telephone 

The office phone is only for family emergencies. Please ask before attempting to use the office 

phone. All cellular phones must be turned off during classes. 

Testing Policy 

Teachers work to make sure that students do not have more than two tests on any one day. 

However, that does not include quizzes, long-term paper assignments, or projects. If a problem 

arises, a student should speak to the teachers involved and the Advisor or Division Head. 

Textbooks 

Parents are free to purchase all non-textbooks at a store/website of their choice. 

State Textbooks 

Students in many classes are issued textbooks that Sandia Prep has previously purchased with state 

textbook funding. State textbooks are on loan to students for the year and must be returned in May 

in good condition. If they are lost or damaged, students will be charged. Students should take their 

class schedule to the library the week before classes begin to get textbooks. 

Tobacco/Smoke/Vape - Free Campus 

Sandia Prep is a tobacco/smoke/vape-free campus. No one should possess smoking products, 

vaping products, or electronic cigarettes on campus. 

Transportation 

For school-related trips, normally a bus will be provided. Depending on the size of students 

attending an off-campus function/trip, Prep may choose to provide their own bus for group sizes of 

16 or fewer. In cases in which more than 16 students are attending, regular school buses or coaches 

will be provided. 

Schools have considerable auto liability exposures resulting from employees driving in the course 

and scope of their duties; parents or other volunteers driving on School-sponsored activities; and 

students transporting themselves or other students to/from School-sponsored events. It is very 

important to note that the primary layer of liability coverage is the insurance which is on the vehicle 

driven. Therefore, when a private vehicle is being driven, the primary liability coverage will be that 

33

which is on the vehicle and the School's liability coverage will be excess. The School does not provide 

any collision or comprehensive coverage on private vehicles. 

Students may not be picked up or dropped off by ride-booking car services such as Uber, Lyft, and 

other similar car services on or near campus. If an adult on campus would like to use one of these 

car services, they must inform a security guard on duty that such car service is coming and meet the 

driver at the Security building. 

Sandia Prep offers bus service to and from the Northeast Heights, the Westside, and the UNM/ 

Ridgecrest areas. Parents may register for the morning pick-up and/or afternoon drop-off through 

the Sandia Prep website. While riding the Sandia Prep buses, students are expected to follow all on 

campus school rules. 

School Driver Policy 

All employee and parent drivers shall submit to the School the following information: 

1. Last Name, First Name, Middle Name or Initial 

2. Date of Birth 

3. New Mexico Driver's License Number and expiration date 

The School reserves the right to refuse an employee authorization to operate a vehicle on School 

business if the individual is determined to be a negligent operator, fails to maintain a valid driver's 

license appropriate for the vehicle being driven, or is disqualified from operating a vehicle as 

a matter of law. The School shall maintain a list of approved employees and parents who are 

authorized to operate vehicles on School-sponsored outings. 

Use of Private Vehicles 

Private vehicles being operated for School purposes must meet the following guidelines: 

1. Driver must possess: 

a.) Valid New Mexico driver's license. 

b.) Minimum liability insurance as required by the State of New Mexico. 

2. Number of passengers shall not exceed nine, including driver. In no case shall the number of 

passengers, including driver, exceed the number of available seat belts. 

3. All drivers must be approved by the School. Use of appropriate Private Vehicle Use Form 

(available from the School's Business Office) must be completed and on file before a trip is taken 

4. Use of personal vehicles where hazardous road conditions exist is prohibited. This includes 

hazardous conditions declared by New Mexico State Police, or other City, County, State or 

Federal agencies authorized to monitor road conditions. 

Non-School Sponsored Transportation 

Sometimes students drive themselves or ride together while traveling to and from School activities, 

such as off-campus instruction and participation in athletic events. Care must be taken to reduce 

the likelihood that a student or an unauthorized parent/guardian driving a private vehicle will be 

considered an agent/volunteer of the School, especially if other students are riding as passengers. 

34

Guidelines: 

1. Students riding with student drivers should have a signed Non-School Transportation Notice form 

(available from the Business Office) on file. 

2. If the student is a minor, the parent must also sign the form. 

3. The School should not dictate or mandate the route or time of travel, passengers, caravanning, 

etc. Any School involvement should be recommendations / suggestions only. 

Travel Policy 

Student Travel Policy Guidelines 

1. All overnight trips other than those under the Athletics Department and Outdoor Leadership 

Program (OLP), which have established trip policies, should go through the Dean of Students 

for approval. In addition, a list of participants must be submitted to the Business Office in 

advance. Description and itinerary for the trip should be in writing. All trips should also have an 

educational purpose and those seeking to sponsor trips should include in their proposal to the 

Dean of Students the educational purposes of the travel. We want everyone to have a good time, 

but we need to be clear on the purposes of each trip as well as have in place more standardized 

policies which will provide greater safety for our students. 

2. A list of students going on the trip should be submitted to the Dean of Students for approval 

and consultation. On trips requiring a deposit, sponsors should check with the Dean of Students 

before depositing funds from students and families. All money collected and dispersed for a trip 

must run through the School's Business Office, even if using an outside travel company. 

3. Chaperones should be faculty members, with at least a one to six faculty to student ratio for 

trips out of the country and with at least one to ten faculty to student ratio within the United 

States. There should be both male and female faculty chaperones for each trip. Parents should 

be used in a supportive role rather than as primary chaperones. The list of chaperones should 

be submitted to the Dean of Students by the primary trip sponsor for approval. Chaperones will 

meet with the Dean of Students before the trip to go over disciplinary procedures. 

4. In case of discipline problems, each trip should have an administrative representative present 

(Dean of Students, Division Head, or their designee) to provide an initial handling of the problem. 

Upon returning home the administrative representative will meet with the students, parents, and 

Dean of Students to finalize disciplinary actions. It is not a good policy to send students who have 

misbehaved home. However, in an extreme situation, where such an action is deemed necessary 

or a student is ill, the student will have to be accompanied by a faculty chaperone and will only 

be dispatched home upon consultation with the Dean of Students and informing of the parents. 

5. School conduct policies apply to all trips, including those outside of the United States. Such 

conduct policies prohibit use of drugs, sexual activity, alcohol, smoking, theft, and intimidation. 

The primary responsibility for setting curfews will be up to the trip sponsors; however, students 

who violate the established curfews will be subject to disciplinary action. 

6. In determining which trips are approved, there will be an effort made to allow for as many 

different trips and sponsors as possible, so that everyone who would like to take students on a 

trip has the opportunity. Trips involving travel outside the United States should be submitted at 

least one semester in advance. 

7. Any trip operating under the banner of the school must go through these procedures and 

policies. All mailings and informational handouts to parents should be approved through the 

35

office of the Dean of Students. All trips outside of the United States should include a parent 

meeting to go over rules and procedures for the trip. The primary trip sponsor should consult 

with the Dean of Students before the parent meeting. 

8. A complete list of all students and chaperones going on trips will be left with the Front Office as 

well as the Dean of Students. 

9. All trips outside of the United States should be conducted under the auspices of an authorized 

student travel company in order to assure that there is adequate health and insurance coverage. 

10. No trips to countries for which the U.S. Department of State has issued a current Travel Warning 

will be permitted without the express permission of the Head of School. 

11. After having the trip approved by the Dean of Students, the primary trip sponsor should meet 

with the business manager so that an account for the trip is established as all money collected for 

the trip should go through the business office. 

Visitors 

Student visitors are permitted at Sandia Prep, provided the visitor: 

1. Has been approved by the Dean of Students or Division Head in advance, and has a reason to be 

here; 

2. Signs in at the security building upon arriving and leaving; 

3. Wears the nametag given to them in the office; and 

4. Abides by all of Sandia Prep’s standards of behavior. 

Any student hosting a visitor will be responsible for the guest’s behavior while they are on our 

campus. We especially welcome student visitors to Passport to Prep, Sandia Prep's open house for 

prospective students and families held each year in October. 

The responsibility of knowing the published rules, regulations, policies, and procedures rests 

solely with the Student and the Parents. Student and Parents agree to comply with the School's 

rules and policies as set forth in the Student/Parent Handbook, as amended from time to time, 

found on the PrepNet Student and Parent Portals. 

36

Student Parent Handbook 2023-2024

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?