Student and Family Handbooks

Charter schools typically adopt Student or Family Handbooks, which establish clear expectations for their students regarding a variety of matters. These matters may include, but not be limited to:

  • student behavior
  • dress code or uniform policy
  • attendance
  • the use of technology
  • academic honesty
  • curriculum information
  • discipline policies and procedures
  • campus and personal safety

For example, at one school, students who are excessively tardy or break the rules are assigned "Campus Beautification" or "CB." The student helps clean up the cafeteria or may be assigned to help serve, so "CB" duty has been an effective discipline tool for us. This policy is stated in the charter school's Student Handbook, which is signed by each parent and student upon enrollment. Many charter schools have similar policies and if they are clearly stated in the Student Handbook, schools should not have difficulty with enforcement.

These sample handbooks from charter schools with varied grade levels, cultures, and operations. Charter schools are encouraged to work with their legal counsel in developing student or family handbooks appropriate for their programs.

Browse even more resources in the Library

  • Student Handbook - Redwood Academy

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    PDF: 25 pages pages. 299 kB

    Sample student and family handbook for a charter school serving grades 7 through 12

    Published May 29, 2010. Last Modified May 29, 2010

  • Student Handbook - Accelerated Achievement Academy

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    PDF: 24 pages. 231 kB

    Sample handbook for parents and students, including necessary standards of conduct and processes for resolving conflicts

    Published June 6, 2010. Last Modified June 6, 2010

  • Student Handbook - Granada Hills

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    PDF: 41 pages. 498 kB

    Sample student and family handbook for a charter high school serving grades 9 through 12

    Published June 23, 2010. Last Modified June 23, 2010

  • Student Handbook, High School

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    PDF: 24 pages. 125 kB

    Sample student handbook for a charter school serving high school students

    Published June 6, 2010. Last Modified June 6, 2010

  • Student Handbook, Middle School

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    PDF: 14 pages. 174 kB

    Sample student handbook for a charter school serving middle school students

    Published June 6, 2010. Last Modified June 6, 2010

  • Student Handbook Table of Contents Sample

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    PDF: 2 pages. 18 kB

    Sample student handbook table of contents that provides suggestions for topics to cover in a student handbook

    Published June 6, 2010. Last Modified June 6, 2010