Inspiring Leaders to Dream, to Do, to Change at SJCA!
San Jose Charter Academy, the 142nd charter school in California opened its doors to students in 1998. Over 25 years, we have dedicated ourselves to ongoing excellence, becoming an exceptional institution where learning, leadership, core values, and achievement create a transformative TK- 8th-grade educational journey.
Our dedicated team of educators cultivates a passion for learning. We believe that education extends beyond textbooks, embracing real-world applications and character development. Students participate in art or music education from kindergarten through eighth grade, along with physical education.
At the heart of our success lies a rigorous academic curriculum tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students. Our commitment to academic excellence is further underscored by our distinguished staff, and over the years, have welcomed many alumni to our teaching staff, a testament to the rich community culture we uphold.
Beyond academics, we prioritize the social and emotional well-being of our students. Our nurturing community fosters inclusivity, empathy, and cultural appreciation. Through a rich tapestry of extracurricular activities, community service projects, and leadership opportunities, we empower students to become well-rounded individuals.
We provide a secure and supportive environment that enables students to explore, experiment, and express themselves freely. Our facilities offer an ideal setting for growth and exploration, ensuring that each student's potential is nurtured and celebrated.
As SJCA Sharks, we foster an environment for students to soar. Dedication, innovation and a passion for learning converge, shaping a future where academic brilliance, character development, and limitless possibilities are the foundation of success.
Policies and Procedures
- SJCA Parent / Student Handbook
- Non-Discrimination Statement
- Suicide Prevention Policy
- Sexual Harassment Policy
- SJCA Wellness Policy
- SJCA Dress Code
- Uniform Complaint Policy and Procedure
- California School Immunization Law
- Medication and Health Guide | Responsibilities for Parents
- Parent / Student Rights and Responsibilities
- Tobacco-Free Policy
- English Language Learner Redesignation Policy
- Williams/Valenzuela Complaint Procedure
- (Ai) Artificial Intelligence Policy
SJCA Parent / Student Handbook
SJCA Parent / Student Handbook
In an effort to reduce our school's carbon footprint, you will find the link to the School Handbook located below. In it you will find helpful information about the school, including policies and guidelines for families and students.
We recommend downloading a copy and saving it in a location that is easily accessible offline if you are unable to visit this page.
Non-Discrimination Statement
Non-Discrimination Statement
San Jose Charter Academy is committed to providing a safe school environment where all individuals in education are afforded equal access and opportunities. The District’s academic and other educational support programs, services and activities shall be free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying of any individual based on the person’s actual race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or gender expression; the perception of one or more of such characteristics; or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. Specifically, state law prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender in enrollment, counseling, and the availability of physical education, athletic activities, and sports. Transgender students shall be permitted to participate in gender-segregated school programs and activities (e.g., athletic teams, sports competitions, and field trips) and to use facilities consistent with their gender identity. The District assures that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation in District programs. Complaints of unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying are investigated through the Uniform Complaint Process. Such complaints must be filed no later than six months after knowledge of the alleged discrimination was first obtained. For a complaint form or additional information, contact: Human Resources at (626) 856-1693, ext. 4004. Information about school programs and policies will be made available to you in languages other than English upon request.
Suicide Prevention Policy
Sexual Harassment Policy
Sexual Harassment – EC 231.5 and 48980(g):
San Jose Charter Academy is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment that is free from sexual harassment. Any student who engages in sexual harassment of anyone in or from the district may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Any employee who permits, engages in, or fails to report sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. For a copy of the district’s sexual harassment policy or to report incidences of sexual harassment, please contact, Human Resources at (626) 856-1693, ext. 4004. The Governing Board prohibits the unlawful sexual harassment of any student by any employee, student, or other person in or from the district. California and Federal laws define sexual harassment as unwanted sexual advances, or unwanted visual, verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Teachers shall discuss this policy with the students in ageappropriate ways and should assure them that they need not endure any form of sexual harassment. Any student who engages in the sexual harassment of anyone in or from the district may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Any employee who permits or engages in sexual harassment of a student may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. The Board expects students or staff to immediately report incidents of sexual harassment to the principal or designee or to another district administrator. The student or staff will be asked to put the complaint in writing and an investigation will be made by an impartial and neutral third party of the same gender as the complainant. If a situation involving sexual harassment is not promptly remedied at the school site, a complaint of harassment can be filed in accordance with AR 1312.1-Complaints Concerning School Personnel. The principal or designee shall determine which procedure is appropriate. The district prohibits retaliatory behavior toward any complainant or any participant in the complaint process. Each complaint of sexual harassment shall be promptly investigated in a way that respects the privacy of all parties concerned.
SJCA Wellness Policy
Click Image Below to Open PDF
San Jose Charter Academy is committed to providing a school environment that promotes and protects children’s health, well being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity under a Coordinated School Health Program. It is the intent of SJCA that:
- SJCA will engage students, parents, teachers, food service professionals, health professional, and other interested community members in developing, implementing, monitoring, and reviewing nutrition, health, wellness and physical activity policies.
- All students in grades TK-8 will have opportunities, support, and encouragement to be physically active on a regular basis.
- SJCA will provide nutrition education and physical education to foster lifelong habits of healthy programs, and related community services.
- SJCA will provide a safe and healthy school environment that ensures that students and adults are physically and emotionally safe.
- The wellness policy will be evaluated on an ongoing basis to measure the implementation and effectiveness of the policy.
The Wellness Policy focuses in 4 key areas:
- School Environment
- Nutrition & Nutrition Education
- Physical Education & Activity
- Community & Staff Involvement
To view our updated School Wellness Policy, click on the PDF.
For ideas on how to support healthy celebrations & healthy fundraisers click below:
WellnessPolicy_FundraiserFlyer
For ideas on healthy snacks you can provide your child with for school, read below!
SJCA Dress Code
Uniform Complaint Policy and Procedure
Uniform Complaint Policy and Procedure – 5 CCR 4622, EC 234.1, 32289, and 49013
The Governing School Board recognizes that the district has a primary responsibility for insuring that it
complies with federal and state laws and regulations and that the district shall investigate complaints
alleging failure to comply with applicable state and federal laws and regulations and/or alleging
discrimination, and seek to resolve those complaints in accordance with the procedures set out in sections
4600-4687 of the Title 5 Regulations and in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Governing
Board. The Governing School Board designates the following compliance officer to receive and investigate
complaints and ensure district compliance with law:
San Jose Charter Academy
Ms. Andrea Luna, Human Resources
2120 W. Alwood Street,
West Covina, CA 91790
(626) 856-1693 ext. 4004
The Board prohibits retaliation in any form for the filing of a complaint, the reporting of instances of
discrimination, or for participation in complaint procedures. Any discrimination complaints shall be
investigated in a manner that protects the confidentiality of the parties and the facts.
The Uniform Complaint Procedures apply to the filing, investigation and resolution of complaints
regarding alleged: 1) failure to comply with federal or state law or regulations governing adult education,
consolidated categorical aid programs, migrant education, vocational education, child care and
developmental programs, child nutrition programs and special education programs; 2) unlawful
discrimination against any protected group as identified under Education Code (EC) sections 200 and 220
and Government Code section 11135, including actual or perceived sex, sexual orientation, gender, ethnic
group identification, race, ancestry, national origin, religion, color, or mental or physical disability, or age,
or on the basis of a person's association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or
perceived characteristics, in any program or activity conducted by a local agency, which is funded directly
by, or that receives or benefits from any state financial assistance; 3) failure to comply with school safety
planning requirements as specified in Section 7114 of Title 20 of the United States Code; 4) unlawful
discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on actual or perceived characteristics set forth
in Section 422.55 of the Penal Code and EC 220, and disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression,
nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with a person or group with one or
more of these actual or perceived characteristics; 5) unlawful imposition of pupil fees for participation in
educational activities in 38 public schools; 6) failure to comply with the requirements established through
the Local Control Funding Formula related to the Local Control and Accountability Plan as described in
EC sections 52060 through 52076 or sections 47606.5 and 47607.3; 7) noncompliance with physical
education instructional minutes at specified grade levels; 8) inappropriate assignment of a pupil to courses
without educational content or previously completed and received a grade sufficient for satisfying the
requirements for high school graduation and admission into post-secondary education; 9) noncompliance
with education provisions for pupils in foster care, who are homeless, or who are former juvenile court
school students; and 10) failure to reasonably accommodate lactating pupils.
Step 1: Filing of Complaint
Any individual, public agency, or organization may file a written complaint of alleged noncompliance by
the District. Complaints may be made using the standard form available at the school site or the district
office. Complaints may be anonymous. If the complainant requests a response and provides contact
information, the district shall provide a response in writing to the mailing address of the complainant
indicated on the complaint. If a complainant is unable to put a complaint in writing due to conditions such
as illiteracy or other handicaps, district staff shall help him/her file the complaint.
Complaints alleging unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying may be filed by a
person who alleges that he/she personally suffered unlawful act or by a person who believes that an
individual or any specific class of individuals has been subjected to the unlawful act. The complaint must
be initiated no later than six months from the date when the alleged discrimination, harassment,
intimidation, or bullying occurred or when the complainant first obtained knowledge of the facts of the
alleged act. All complaints shall be investigated and resolved with 60 calendar days of the District’s receipt
of the complaint. However, upon written request by the complainant, the Superintendent or designee may
extend the filing period for up to 90 calendar days. Complaints should be filed with the appropriate
compliance officer depending on the nature and scope of the complaint. The complaint shall be presented to
the compliance officer who shall maintain a log of complaint received, providing each with a code number
and a date stamp.
Step 2: Mediation of Complaint
Within three business days of receiving the complaint, the compliance officer may informally discuss with
the complainant the possibility of using mediation. If the parties agree to mediation, the compliance officer
shall make all arrangements for this process.
Before initiating the mediation of a complaint alleging discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or
bullying, the compliance officer shall ensure that all parties agree to make the mediator a party to related
confidential information.
If the mediation process does not resolve the problem within the parameters of law, the compliance officer
shall precede with his/her investigation of the complaint.
The use of mediation shall not extend the District’s timelines for investigation and resolving the complaint
unless the complainant agrees in writing to such an extension of time.
Step 3: Investigation of Complaint
Within 10 calendar days of receiving the complaint, the compliance officer shall provide the complainant
and/or his/her representative an opportunity to present the complaint and any evidence, or information
leading to evidence, to support the allegations in the complaint. The compliance officer also shall collect all
documents and interview all witnesses with information pertinent to the complaint.
A complainant’s refusal to provide the District’s investigator with documents or other evidence related to
the allegations in the complaint, failure or refusal to cooperate in the investigation, or engagement in any
other obstruction of the investigation may result in the dismissal of the complaint because of lack of
evidence to support the allegation.
In accordance with law, the District shall provide the investigator with access to records and information
related to the allegation in the complaint and shall not in any way obstruct the investigation. Failure/refusal
of the District to cooperate in the investigation may result in a finding based on evidence collected that a
violation has occurred and a remedy in favor of the complainant.
Step 4: Response
Unless extended by written agreement with the complainant, the compliance officer shall prepare and send
to the complainant a written report of the District’s investigation and decision, as described in Step #5
below, within 60 calendar days of the District’s receipt of the complaint.
Step 5: Final Written Decision
The District’s decision shall be in writing and sent to the complainant. The District’s decision shall be
written in English and in the language of the complainant whenever feasible or as required by law.
The decision shall include:
1. The findings of fact based on the evidence gathered;
2. The conclusion(s) of law;
3. The disposition of the complaint;
4. The rationale for such disposition;
5. Corrective actions, if any are warranted;
6. Notice of the complainant’s right to appeal the decision to the California Department of Education
(CDE) within 15 calendar days, and procedures to be followed for initiating such an appeal;
In addition, any decision concerning a discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying complaint
based on state law shall include a notice that the complainant must wait until 60 calendar days have elapsed
from the filing of an appeal with the CDE before pursuing civil law remedies.
If an employee or student is disciplined as a result of the complaint, the report shall simply state that
effective action was taken and that the employee or student was informed of district expectations. The
report shall not give any further information as to the nature of the discipline.
If a complaint alleging noncompliance with laws regarding student fees, deposits, and other charges is
found to have merit, the District shall provide a remedy to all affected students and parents/guardians,
which, where applicable, shall include reasonable efforts to ensure full reimbursement to them.
Appeals to the California Department of Education
If the complainant is dissatisfied with the district’s decision, the complainant may appeal in writing to the
CDE within 15 calendar days of receiving the district’s decision. When appealing to the CDE, the
complainant must specify the basis for the appeal of the decision and whether the facts are incorrect and/or
the law has been misapplied. The appeal shall be accompanied by a copy of the locally filed complaint and
a copy of the district’s decision.
Upon notification by the CDE that the complainant has appealed the district’s decision, the Superintendent
or designee shall forward the following to the CDE:
(1) A copy of the original complaint;
(2) A copy of the District’s decision;
(3) A summary of the nature and extent of the investigation conducted by the district, if not covered in the
District’s decision;
(4) A copy of the investigation file including, but not limited to, all notes, interviews, and documents
submitted by the parties and gathered by the investigator;
(5) A report of any action taken to resolve the complaint;
(6) A copy of the District’s complaint procedures; and
(7) Such other relevant information as requested by the CDE
The CDE may directly intervene in the complaint without waiting for action by the district when one of the
conditions listed in 5 CCR 4650 exists. In addition, the CDE may also intervene in those cases where the
district has not taken action within 60 calendar days of the date the complaint was filed with the district.
Civil Law Remedies
A complainant may pursue available civil law remedies outside of the district’s complaint procedures.
Complainants may seek assistance from mediation centers or public/private interest attorneys. Civil law
remedies that may be imposed by a court include, but are not limited to, injunctions and restraining orders.
For complaints alleging discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying based on state law, a
complainant shall wait until 60 calendar days have elapsed from the filing of an appeal with the CDE
before pursuing civil law remedies, provided the district has appropriately and in a timely manner apprised
the complainant of his/her right to file a complaint in accordance with 5 CCR 4622. The moratorium does
not apply to injunctive relief or to discrimination complaints based on federal law.
Williams/Valenzuela Complaint Procedure – EC 35186
The Governing Board designates the following compliance officers to receive and investigate complaints
and ensures district compliance with law in accordance with Williams and/or Valenzuela v. The State of
California: Initial complaints and complaints involving the following:
1) Instructional materials
a) A student does not have standards-aligned textbooks or instructional materials
or state- or district-adopted textbooks or other required instructional materials to use in class.
b) A student does not have access to instructional materials to use at home or after school. (AB
831 and Education Code 35186)
c) Textbooks or instructional materials are in poor or unusable condition, have missing pages, or
are unreadable due to damage.
2) Teacher vacancy or misassignment (AB 831 and Education Code 35186)
a) A semester begins and a teacher vacancy exists. (AB 831 and Education Code 35186)
b) A teacher who lacks credentials or training to teach English learners is assigned to teach a class
with more than 20 percent English learner students in the class
c) A teacher is assigned to teach a class for which the teacher lacks subject matter competency.
3) Facilities
a) A condition poses an emergency or urgent threat to the health and safety of students or staff.
(Education Code 17592.72)
b) School restroom has not been cleaned, maintained, or kept open in accordance with Education
Code 35292.5.
A complaint about problems beyond the authority of the school principal shall be forwarded in a timely
manner, but not to exceed 10 working days, to the appropriate school district official for resolution. A
complaint alleging any deficiency specified in item #4 above shall be filed with a district official
designated by the Superintendent. Such complaints may be filed at the district office or at the school site
and shall be immediately forwarded to the Superintendent or designee. Complaints of non-satisfactory
response to aforementioned issues or previous complaints, complaints regarding site principals, and
complaints involving non-school site issues should be directed to the following individual(s):
San Jose Charter Academy
Ms. Andrea Luna, Chief Business Officer
2021 W. Alwood Street, West Covina, CA 91790
(626) 856-1693, ext. 4004
Notifications
Complaints pursuant to Williams and/or Valenzuela vs. The State of California shall be either remedied or
forwarded to the district office for remedy within 10 days of the filing of the complaint. All such
complaints shall be resolved within 30 days from the filing of the complaint.
The Superintendent or designee shall meet the notification requirements of the Code of Regulations, Title
5, Section 4622, including the annual dissemination of district complaint procedures and information about
available appeals, civil law remedies, and conditions under which a complaint may be taken directly to the
California Department of Education. This policy shall be distributed annually to students, employees,
parents/guardians, district/school advisory committees, appropriate private school officials or
representatives, and other interested parties. The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that complainants
understand that they may pursue other remedies, including actions before civil courts or other public
agencies. Remedies may include court orders, preliminary injunctions and/or restraining orders.
Reporting of Data and Records
The District shall report summarized data on the nature and resolution of all complaints, pursuant to
Williams and/or Valenzuela vs. The State of California, on a quarterly basis to the County Superintendent
of Schools and the Governing Board of the school district. The summaries shall be publicly reported on a
quarterly basis at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Governing Board of the school district. The report
shall include the number of complaints by general subject area with the number of resolved and unresolved
complaints. Complaints and responses shall be available as public record.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that the district’s complaint form contains a space to indicate
whether the complainant desires a response to his/her complaint and specifies the location for filing a
complaint. A complainant may add as much text to explain the complaint as he/she wishes. However,
complainants need not use the district’s Williams complaint form in order to file a complaint.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that a notice is posted in each classroom in each school containing the components specified in Education Code 35186.
California School Immunization Law
California School Immunization Law | Grades K-12
Immunizations – EC 49403, 48216; HSC 120325, 120335, 120338, 120370, 120375; and 120365
Students must be immunized against certain communicable diseases. Students are prohibited from attending school unless immunization requirements are met for age and grade. The school district shall cooperate with local health officials in measures necessary for the prevention and control of communicable diseases in school age children. The district may use any funds, property, or personnel and may permit any person licensed as a physician or registered nurse to administer an immunizing agent to any student whose parents have consented in writing.
Beginning January 1, 2016, parents of students in any school, will no longer be allowed to submit a personal beliefs exemption to a currently required vaccine. A personal beliefs exemption on file at school prior to January 1, 2016 will continue to be valid until the student enters the next grade span at kindergarten (including transitional kindergarten) or 7th grade.
Students are not required to have immunizations if they attend a home-based private school or an independent study program and do not receive classroom-based instruction. However, parents must continue to provide immunizations records for these students to their schools. The immunization requirements do not prohibit students from accessing special education and related services required by their individualized education programs.
A student not fully immunized may be temporarily excluded from a school or other institution when that child has been exposed to a specified disease and whose documentary proof of immunization status does not show proof of immunization against one of the communicable diseases described above.
Guide to Immunizations Required for School Entry
Use guide below as a quick reference to help you determine whether children seeking admission to your school meet California’s School immunization requirements. For the actual laws, See Health and Safety Code, Division 105; Part 2, Chapter 1, Sections 120325-120380; California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 8, Sections 6000-6075. If you have any questions, call the Immunization Coordinator at your local health department or go to http://eziz.org/assets/docs/shotsforschool/IMM-1080.pdf or www.nvic.org/Vaccine-Laws/statevaccine-requirements/california.aspx
| VACCINE | REQUIRED DOSES |
| Polio | 4 doses at any age, but... 3 doses meet requirement for ages 4–6 years if at least one was given on or after the 4th birthday; 3 doses meet requirement for ages 7–17 years if at least one was given on or after the 2nd birthday. |
| Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis | Age 6 years and under DTP, DTaP or any combination of DTP or DTaP with DT (diphtheria and tetanus) 5 doses at any age, but... 4 doses meet requirements for ages 4–6 years if at least one was on or after the 4th birthday. |
| Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) |
Age 4-6 years (kindergarten and above): 2 doses both on or after 1st birthday. 7th grade: 2 doses both on or after 1st birthday. Age 7-17 years and not entering or advancing into 7th grade: 1 dose on or after 1st birthday. |
| Hepatitis B | Age 4-6 years (kindergarten and above): 3 doses |
| Varicella | 1 dose |
| Tdap Booster (Tetanus, reduced diphtheria, and pertussis) | 7th grade: 1 dose on or after 7th birthday. |
Medication and Health Guide | Responsibilities for Parents
Tdap and Varicella Vaccination Requirement
March 2022
Dear Parents,
California Law AB 354 requires all incoming 7 th grade students to show proof of Tdap (pertussis or whooping cough) immunization. New regulations require 2 doses of Varicella (chickenpox) immunization.
To ensure your child is able to register for 7 th grade and be given priority for classes and electives, submit proof of the required Tdap booster shot and 2nd Varicella shot to the San Jose Charter Academy school office by Friday, April 29, 2022. Time passes quickly; it is highly recommended you make an appointment for your child in the near future.
If you have other children 10 years or older, you may also wish to have them immunized in anticipation of their future 7th grade year.
A list of free or low-cost health clinics in Los Angeles County is provided below or the school office can provide a copy for you.
Parents or guardians of students in any school or child care facility will no longer be allowed to submit a personal beliefs exemption to a currently-required vaccine. (California Law SB 277)
For questions about Tdap or Varicella you may contact our school office at
(626) 856-1693.
Medication Regimen - EC 49423
The parent or legal guardian of any pupil taking medication on a regular basis must inform the school nurse, health clerk, or other contact person of the medication being taken, the current dosage, and the name of the supervising physician. With the consent of the parent or legal guardian, the school nurse may communicate with the physician and may counsel with the school personnel regarding the possible effects of the medication on the pupil.
Any pupil who is required to take, during the regular school day, medication prescribed by a physician or surgeon, may be assisted by the school nurse or other designated school personnel or may carry and self-administer auto-injectable epinephrine or inhaled asthma medication if the school district receives a written statement of instructions from the physician detailing the method, amount and time schedules by which such medication is to be taken and a written statement from the parent or guardian requesting the school district assist the pupil with prescribed medication as set forth in the physician statement.
Parents/guardians must follow certain procedures if pupils need assistance from school personnel in taking medication. The procedures are as follows:
- Return the Parent and Physician Medication Request form to your child’s school office. Must be renewed annually).
- Bring the medication to the school in the prescription container.
- The pharmacist’s label must indicate all of the following information:
- The full name of the student;
- The date;
- The name of the physician;
- The dosage of the medication;
- The time schedule of the medication; and,
- The method of administration of the medication
“Over-the-counter” medications, such as aspirin, will not be dispensed without a physician’s authorization. Medication will be kept in a locked cabinet. If more than one medication is to be taken while at school, each prescription must be separately labeled with a separate medication authorization form for each prescription. Students are not allowed to have items such as aspirin, cough drops, etc. in their possession. Parents/Guardians should probably keep their child home when he/she has any of the following symptoms:
-
- Fever (over 100º F, or 37.8º C)
- Vomiting (more than once)
- Frequent diarrhea
- Frequent Cough
- Widespread rash (call doctor immediately if rash is with fever)
- Earache
- Toothache
Contact your doctor as soon as possible, so that appropriate treatment can begin. Children should not be kept home for looking sick, poor color, circles under the eyes, or tiredness. Please note that if your child is absent 10 or more days during the school year he/she may suffer academically and is considered to have an attendance issue. The following suggestions will improve your child’s ability to learn while in school:
-
- Children should get 8 – 10 hours of sleep each night
- Children need a nutritious breakfast
- Good hygiene is essential to good health and self-esteem
- Washing hands with antibacterial soap often to eliminate the spread of germs
- Avoid exposure to others who are sick
Parent Responsibilities
- Have a doctor fill out the prescription form completely
- Parent/guardian must sign and date the prescription form
- Parent/guardian must bring prescription and medication to the school office staff
- Medication must be in the properly labeled containers with the same orders as noted on the prescription form
- An accurate measuring spoon must be provided, if medication is in liquid form
- Parent/guardian must bring any change in prescriptions or medications in writing from the doctor
- Parent/guardian must pick up any unused medication at the end of the school year.
- New authorizations are required at the beginning of each school year
Parent / Student Rights and Responsibilities
The Education Code of the State of California requires the Governing Board of each school district, at the beginning of the regular school term, to notify the parent/guardian of its minor students regarding the right of the parent/guardian as contained in designated sections of the Education Code (EC § 48980 and EC § 48981).
The notice shall be sent home annually at the beginning of the school year and is to be signed by the parent/guardian and student and returned to the school. Signature of the notice is an acknowledgment by the parent/guardian that he/she has been informed of his/her rights but does not indicate that consent to participate in any particular program has either been given or withheld (EC § 48982).
If any activity covered by the sections contained in the notice will be undertaken by the school during forthcoming school term, the notice shall state that fact and shall also state the approximate date upon which any of such activities will occur.
No school district shall undertake any activity covered by the sections contained in the notice with respect to any particular student unless the parent/guardian has been informed of such action or has received separate special notification.
Arrangements for handicapped persons (aged 3-21) having special education needs can be made by contacting the district. Services include special instruction, psychological testing and counseling, health services, home teaching, adaptive physical education, speech and language training, and special bus transportation. Students receiving exceptional pupil services are placed in an appropriate program based on their individual educational needs.
The following sections of the law have been summarized for your convenience. Explanations regarding any activity may be requested from the Principal. All the activities described begin with the opening of school each year and continue throughout the school year. Separate special notification that your student is involved in any of the activities listed will be provided by the school Principal as individual students are involved.
A letter specifying any objection you may have at this time to any activity listed, or to the participation of your student in an activity listed, should be sent to the Principal that your student attends within 30 days of receipt of this notice.
Parents are reminded of the importance of investing for future college or university education for their children. There are many investment options including, but not limited, to U.S. Savings Bonds.
Tobacco-Free Policy
The use of tobacco and nicotine products is prohibited on school or district grounds, buildings, and vehicles, and within 250 feet of a youth sports event. Tobacco product includes, but is not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, little cigars, chewing tobacco, pipe tobacco, snuff, or an electronic device (e.g., electronic cigarette, cigar, pipe, or hookah) that delivers nicotine or other vaporized liquids.
This prohibition applies to all employees, students, visitors, and other persons at any school or school sponsored activity or athletic event, and applies to any meeting on any property owned, leased, rented by/or from the district.
Community members who smoke on district property shall be informed of the district’s tobacco-free policy and asked to refrain from smoking. If the person fails to comply in this respect, the following actions may take place:
- The matter may be referred to the Superintendent or designee responsible for the area or the event.
- The Superintendent or designee may direct him/her to leave the district property.
- If necessary, the Superintendent or designee may request local law enforcement assistance in removing the person from district premises.
- When individuals repeatedly violate the tobacco-free policy, the Superintendent or designee may prohibit them from entering district property for a specified period of time.
For additional information or concerns, contact the Office of Student Services at (626) 939-4600, ext. 4682. For information related to cessation and other tobacco programs, contact 1-800-662-8887 (1-800-NO BUTTS) or the local American Cancer Society.
English Language Learner Redesignation Policy
Williams/Valenzuela Complaint Procedure
Williams/Valenzuela Complaint Procedure - EC 35186
The Governing Board designates the following compliance officers to receive and investigate complaints and ensures district compliance with law in accordance with Williams and/or Valenzuela v. The State of California: Initial complaints and complaints involving the following:
1) Instructional materials
a) A student does not have standards-aligned textbooks or instructional materials or state- or district-adopted textbooks or other required instructional materials to use in class.
b) A student does not have access to instructional materials to use at home or after school. (AB 831 and Education Code 35186)
c) Textbooks or instructional materials are in poor or unusable condition, have missing pages, or are unreadable due to damage.
2) Teacher vacancy or misassignment (AB 831 and Education Code 35186)
a) A semester begins and a teacher vacancy exists. (AB 831 and Education Code 35186)
b) A teacher who lacks credentials or training to teach English learners is assigned to teach a class with more than 20 percent English learner students in the class
c) A teacher is assigned to teach a class for which the teacher lacks subject matter competency.
3) Facilities
a) A condition poses an emergency or urgent threat to the health and safety of students or staff. (Education Code 17592.72)
b) School restroom has not been cleaned, maintained, or kept open in accordance with Education Code 35292.5.
A complaint about problems beyond the authority of the school principal shall be forwarded in a timely manner, but not to exceed 10 working days, to the appropriate school district official for resolution. A complaint alleging any deficiency specified in item #4 above shall be filed with a district official designated by the Superintendent. Such complaints may be filed at the district office or at the school site and shall be immediately forwarded to the Superintendent or designee. Complaints of non-satisfactory response to aforementioned issues or previous complaints, complaints regarding site principals, and complaints involving non-school site issues should be directed to the following individual(s):
San Jose Charter Academy
Ms. Andrea Luna, Chief Business Officer
2021 W. Alwood Street, West Covina, CA 91790
(626) 856-1693, ext. 4004
(Ai) Artificial Intelligence Policy
Accountability and Compliance
- Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP)
- LCAP SJCA Federal Addendum
- Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan (LCP)
- School Accountability Report Card
- Title IX Regulations
- ESSER III Expenditure Plan
- Safe Return to In-Person Instruction
- Reporting of Data and Records
- ESGV SELPA Local Plan
- Pupils' Rights Under PPRA and FERPA
- Sex Equity in Education Act
- Restraint and Seclusion Data
Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP)
LCAP SJCA Federal Addendum
Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan (LCP)
School Accountability Report Card
Title IX Regulations
Title IX Regulations - Education Amendments of 1972
San Jose Charter Academy is committed to providing equal opportunities for both sexes in all educational programs and activities, which it conducts, and for employees and applicants for employment. Section 86.9 of the Title IX Rules and Regulations requires this notice.
Today, more and more people are re-examining the policies and practices of our society and our schools in terms of whether they provide equal opportunities. Deep-seated traditions in our culture have sometimes led to subtle, often unconscious sex-discrimination practices that limit opportunities for the development of an individual’s potential. Equality of opportunity for both sexes in all programs and practices is a fundamental goal of San Jose Charter Academy. The Federal Regulations implementing Title IX Regulations of the Education Amendments of 1972 became effective on July 21, 1975. They require equality of opportunity in educational programs and employment practices in schools throughout the United States. For students, this means that educational programs and activities must be free from policies and practices, which discriminate on the basis of sex. For present and future employees, it means that all employment practices must be free from sex discrimination. Although Title IX Regulations cover employment, the basic purpose of this communication is to inform students and parents on how the regulations apply to the local school program. Schools will continually evaluate their practices in terms of equal opportunity. Programs and practices will be changed when necessary to bring them into compliance with Title IX Regulations.
The following are a few examples of how Title IX Regulations may affect local schools:
• All courses and activities (except sex education and certain contact sports) are open to either sex.
• Classes, including physical education, are conducted on a co-educational basis.
• Students are encouraged to pursue courses and vocations that interest them regardless of previous “male” or “female” associations.
• All forms of sex stereotyping are avoided in communicating with students.
• Schools have a responsibility to respond promptly and effectively to reports of sexual harassment and sexual violence. If a school knows or reasonably should know about sexual harassment or sexual violence, the school must take immediate action to eliminate the sexual harassment or sexual violence, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects.
• Courses and activities are being modified to accommodate interests of both sexes.
• Students of either sex have equal access to equipment, facilities (other than lavatories and locker rooms), and all other resources.
• Seating arrangements (classroom, eating areas, auditorium, and bus) are not based on sex.
• Equal opportunities for participation in interscholastic athletics are provided for both sexes.
• Courses required of one sex are required of the other sex.
• Honors, awards, and other forms of recognition are available to either sex on an equitable basis.
• Parents, students, and employees are encouraged to assist schools in their efforts to eliminate sex discrimination from all educational programs.
For additional information and/or to make a complaint regarding Title IX Regulation procedures:
1. Visit the school webpage or contact the site administrator.
2. Visit the San Jose Charter Academy webpage or contact Ms. Andrea Luna, Chief Business Officer (626) 856-1693 ext. 4004.
3. San Jose Charter Academy Uniform Complaint Procedures-Annual Notification Document
4. Contact:
U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
50 Beale Street, Suite 7200
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415) 486-5555
ESSER III Expenditure Plan
Safe Return to In-Person Instruction
Reporting of Data and Records
The District shall report summarized data on the nature and resolution of all complaints, pursuant to Williams and/or Valenzuela vs. The State of California, on a quarterly basis to the County Superintendent of Schools and the Governing Board of the school district. The summaries shall be publicly reported on a quarterly basis at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Governing Board of the school district. The report shall include the number of complaints by general subject area with the number of resolved and unresolved complaints. Complaints and responses shall be available as public record.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that the district’s complaint form contains a space to indicate whether the complainant desires a response to his/her complaint and specifies the location for filing a complaint. A complainant may add as much text to explain the complaint as he/she wishes. However, complainants need not use the district’s Williams complaint form in order to file a complaint.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that a notice is posted in each classroom in each school containing the components specified in Education Code 35186.
ESGV SELPA Local Plan
Pupils' Rights Under PPRA and FERPA
Notifications of Rights under the Protection of Pupils’ Rights Amendment and the Family Educational Rights Act
Protection of Pupils Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents and/or “eligible students” certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:
Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the US Department of Education:
- Political affiliations/beliefs of the students or student’s parents;
- Mental/psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
- Sex behaviors/attitudes; illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
- Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
- Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
- Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
- Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
Received notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of:
- Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
- Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
- Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others
Inspect, upon request and before administration or use:
- Protected information surveys of students;
- Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing or other distribution purposes; and,
- Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.
San Jose Charter Academy has developed and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing or other distribution purposes. West Covina Unified School District will directly notify parents and eligible students of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and/or “eligible students” certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:
- To inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect.
- To request the amendment of the student’s education records that they believe are inaccurate. They should write the school principal clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the school decides not to amend, they must notify the parent and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the amendment. Additional information will be provided.
- To consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
- To file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by San Jose Charter Academy to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
Parents/eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
US Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
For additional information, go to www.studentprivacymatters.org/ferpa_ppra_coppa/
Sex Equity in Education Act
Welcome to the Clubs and Athletics Homepage. At SJCA, we are pleased to offer a variety of activities that support the growth of the whole child.
The Sex Equity in Education Act, states the policy of the state that elementary and secondary school classes and courses, including nonacademic and elective classes and courses, be conducted without regard to the sex of the pupil enrolled in these classes or courses. Existing federal law, known as Title IX, prohibits a person, on the basis of sex, from being excluded from participation in, being denied the benefits of, or being subject to discrimination under, any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.
This bill requires, on or before July 1, 2017, all public schools and private schools that receive federal funds and are subject to the requirements of Title IX, school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools to post in a prominent and conspicuous location on their Internet websites specified information relating to Title IX.
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any federally funded education program or activity. Title IX requires school districts to appoint a Title IX coordinator; notify all pupils, parents and guardians of pupils and school staff of their rights; and adopt and publish rules and procedures on how to receive, investigate and respond to a complaint. Complaints can be made on the San Jose Charter Academy School Homepage located under, "Links & Resources" and then under, "Parents Links & Resources" is the, "SJCA Community Complaints Form."
Arleen Lemus, Secondary Education Admin
626-856-1693
Restraint and Seclusion Data
California Department of Education website
Data Collection
The CDE collected restraint and seclusion data for the first time from local educational agencies (LEAs) as part of the 2019–20 CALPADS End-of-Year (EOY) 3 annual data submission. In preparation for this data collection, the CDE directed LEAs to start collecting these data locally beginning in fall 2019 for submission to CALPADS from May to September 2020. To accommodate the collection of these data, the CALPADS student discipline data files were modified to include the collection of the following behavioral restraint and seclusion data, which are defined in EC section 49005.1:
- Mechanical Restraint: Use of a device or equipment to restrict a pupil’s freedom of movement (with exceptions).
- Physical Restraint: A personal restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability of a pupil to move his or her torso, arms, legs, or head freely (with exceptions).
Seclusion: The involuntary confinement of a pupil alone in a room or area from which the pupil is physically prevented from leaving.
Restraint and Seclusion Data
