September 2022

Dear Members of the AAS family,

Welcome back! Welcome Home! Welcome back to school!!!! Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year at the Academy of American Studies.  There are many high schools in New York City, but there are few which are as wonderful as ours.  Because we are a mid-sized school, with about 1300 students, we are able to provide the intimacy and personalization of the very small schools combined with the breadth and depth of offerings that only the few remaining large high schools can offer.  Thus, students at Academy have the best of both worlds, nestled in a safe, secure, warm, and nurturing environment.

I would like to share some information with you about the upcoming year.

1.        We are joyously opening in person once again, this time in our brand new building. This is tremendously exciting and we are all energized to move forward! We expect to follow DOE guidance with the issues that may arise as the school year moves forward.  In the end, flexibility and thoughtfulness are the order of the day!!

2.        In accordance with NYCDOE policy, all students have seven classes.

3.        We currently offer many different Advanced Placement classes.  As well, we also have many College Now courses and a link with St. John’s University’s College Advantage program to include more students and more courses so students can earn college credits while in high school. And, we are proud that we have many PSAL teams as well, and they are returning this year while following all DOE post-COVID guidelines, including mandated vaccinations.

4.        We are implementing New York State’s college readiness requirement by expecting all students to earn well beyond a 65 (minimum passing grade) in Common Core ELA and Math Regents exams.  Students will be asked to retake exams until they have met the state’s and CUNY’s benchmarks.

At Academy of American Studies, you will find high academic expectations and standards which meet students where they are when they come to us and bring them as far as they can possibly go. This philosophy, when combined with superlative teaching, a strong support system to insure students are successful in meeting the rigor of high school, and a powerfully devoted guidance staff who nurture our students, creates an environment which fosters the highest levels of academic, athletic, and artistic success along with strong emotional growth.

I wish you a wonderful school year as we move forward in our new world of post-pandemic learning in our beautiful new building.

Sincerely,

William C. Bassell

Principal

Welcome to the 2022-2023 School Year

Vision & Mission Statement

Vision:

Academy of American Studies is a college preparatory high school emphasizing American history, literature and culture through four years of American studies.  We strive to build a cooperative community of life-long college and career learners through a spirited partnership among students, parents, faculty, staff and educational partners.

Mission:

Preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s challenges by providing strategic

insights into America’s rich history.

Goals:

• To ensure that every student has a rigorous college and career preparatory experience.

• To support every student in earning a minimum of ten academic credits each school year.

• To enrich and enhance students’ curricular and co-curricular experiences through our partnerships with the Gilder Lehrman Institute and other supporting organizations.

2022-2023 STAFF

DAILY SCHEDULE FOR STUDENTS

ACADEMY OF AMERICAN STUDIES BY THE NUMBERS

Address:        40-11 28th Street Long Island City, NY  11101

Web Address:        www.AcademyofAmericanStudies.com

Phone #:        929-487-1910 / 929-487-1911 (fax)

Class of 2021-2022 Statistics:

•        Graduation cohort (students who entered in the fall of 2018 and graduated by August of 2022):  97%

•        Students who applied to colleges and were accepted by at least one college of their choice:  100%

•        Graduates who went on to higher education:  90%

•        Graduates with Regents or Advanced Regents Endorsed Diplomas:  100%

Colleges & Universities where the Class of 2022 are in attendance:

Communication

--Students must use their NYC Department of Education emails to communicate electronically with Academy staff and to log into any DOE application (Teach Hub, Zoom, Google Classroom, etc.).  For a tutorial on how to do this, please go to www.academyofamericanstudies.com/remote_learning_help and watch the video under the box “How to use your NYCStudents.net account.”  

--Students must be respectful of all members of the Academy community on social media, Zoom,  Google Classroom, and any other academic platform.

--If there is a situation which impacts your attendance and class participation, students should email their teachers and guidance counselors immediately.

--Parents must fill out an emergency contact survey:  www.tinyurl.com/AASEmergencyCard 

--If you have a question--ask--the entire staff is available through email to help you.  Staff emails can be found on the website (www.academy of american studies.com).

Electronics Policy

Students should feel free to bring their laptops or IPads to school for use in class with the permission of a classroom teacher only.  All electronic devices must be off and away when a student is not in a classroom.  Devices must be off and away in hallways, stairwells, bathrooms, and in any other non-classroom, non-teacher directed situation.  If a parent needs to contact a student, they must call the school office so that we can locate the student.  Devices that are visible or can be heard are subject to confiscation.  Confiscated items will be returned only to parents or guardians.  Electronics may be used for academic reasons, but only as instructed by a teacher to advance the process of a lesson inside a classroom.  Upon completion of a teacher-led classroom activity, the electronic device must be off and away before a student leaves the classroom.  The Academy is not responsible for the loss of any personal electronic devices.

Attendance

Accurate attendance is essential.  If a student is absent, your parent/guardian must call that morning (929-487-1910) to let the school know.  Students should check with their teacher to make sure they are up to date on all assignments.  When a student returns from an absence, they must ask the teacher what work they have missed in order to be up to date.

Items that are Not Allowed in School

The following items are not allowed in school and are subject to confiscation if found:

• Tobacco products, drugs and related paraphernalia
• Vaping materials
• Laser pointers
• Weapons 

*Students found to possess or use any illegal items or substances are subject to arrest.

IDs

The Academy community utilizes a school-wide identification system.  All students are required to have their School Photo ID while they are on campus all day.  IDs will assist in the security of everyone on campus.  Each new student will be issued a School Photo ID and all returning students will use their current IDs.  A student who has lost their identification card should apply for a replacement with Ms. Galletti in the Cafeteria. Until a student receives a new ID, hard copies of program cards should be used for identification.  There is no fee for a replacement ID card.  

IDs must be shown:

• when entering the building
• when asked by any staff member or School Safety Agent

BASIC RULES AND REGULATIONS

1.  Students should arrive shortly before their first class of the day

2.  Lateness can affect your participation grade.  All students must obtain a pass from their subject teacher before going to see any other staff member including the guidance counselors.  

3.  Students are expected to arrive at their classrooms in a timely manner. Bathrooms are closed the first and last 5 minutes of class.

4.  Students may not remain in a classroom or any campus space unsupervised.

5.  Students must remain on campus during the times listed on their program cards unless a parent comes to school to sign the student out.

6.  Students must obtain an official pass from their teacher when leaving a classroom.

7.  No glass bottles permitted in school. The only liquid allowed in classrooms is plain water.

8.  Students may not carry skateboards, roller blades or skates into the buildings.

9.  For an emergency only, students should get a pass to the Main Office to make a phone call.  

10.  Students must follow our DOE approved dress code policy. If you are dressed inappropriately, you will be asked to change.

11.  Students are responsible for maintaining a safe and clean learning environment:

12.  Students may not engage in any activity that threatens the security or well-being of themselves, other students, faculty, or the school building.

13. Students must show respect for all adults on campus.

14. Papers should be deposited in wastebaskets and recycling bins.

15. No graffiti of any sort may be placed inside or outside of the school or on school property.

WHERE DO I GO IF…

I become ill or injured……………………………………………………………Medical Office, Room 107

I lose my Metro Card…………….……………………………………………….Ms. McLoughlin, Room 127 I need working papers………………………………….……..…Main Office, Room 101 (Ms. Ortiz) I lose my program card………………………………………………………………….Main Office, Room 101 I need a lunch form………………………………………………………..………….....Main Office, Room 101 I lost my ID card……………………………………………………..Cafeteria, Basement (Ms. Galletti) I have questions about my program……………………………Guidance Counselors, Room 105 I have a problem with another student……………………………………………..…Deans, Room 314 I need a gym uniform…………………………………………………………………………….... Gym (2nd floor)

I have a question on classwork……………….................................................Subject Teacher I want to hand in an absence note……………………………………….…...Main Office, Room 101 I have a question about a trip……………………………………………………….Ms. Dudley, Room 111 I need tutoring…………………………………………………………………………………………Subject Teacher I need to speak to someone about a problem……………Guidance Counselors, Room 105 I need information about the daily announcements……………………Ms. Dudley, Room 111 I need to call home…………………………………………………………………………Main Office, Room 101 I have a general question………………………………………………………………Main Office, Room 101

I want to join a team…………………………………………………..Ms. Sherlock, Athletic Director I want to join/start a club…………..…………………………………………………Ms. Dudley, Room 111 I am being bullied…………………………Deans, Room 314 & Guidance Counselors, Room 105 I need information about graduation requirements…Guidance Counselors, Room 105 I need to use a computer……………………………………………………………………..Library, Room 106 I need information about college……………….Mr. Guilford, College Advisor, Room 225 I need information about fee waivers for SAT/AC…Guidance Counselors, Room 105 I need to email my teacher……..…About Us Tab on AcademyofAmericanStudies.com

Feeling Stressed, Having a hard time balancing life and school, or do you just need someone to talk to…………………………………………………………………SAPIS Counselor, Room 104

I need help from an administrator…………………Prinicpal Bassell (101A)…Black (423)... …………..Cohen (323)...Kohn (105)...Mayer (127)...Tzortzatos (209)...Rodriguez (123)

IN AN EMERGENCY GO TO THE NEAREST OFFICE OR STAFF MEMBER

CAMPUS POLICIES

COVID Policies:

• Students should wash their hands frequently and try not to touch their faces.
• Students must follow all DOE mandates on COVID policies.

Campus Entry:

• All students must swipe their ID cards upon entering the building

STUDENTS MUST USE THE PROPER EXITS AND ENTRANCES.

LEAVING FROM OTHER DOORS COMPROMISES EVERYONE’S SAFETY AND SECURITY.

ALARMS WILL BE SET OFF IF ANY DOORS OTHER THAN THE MAIN DOORS ARE USED.

ALL STUDENTS MUST BE ON CAMPUS DURING THE TIMES INDICATED ON THEIR PROGRAMS ONLY.

STUDENTS WHO VIOLATE THIS RULE ARE SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

MEALS FORMS

Meal forms are imperative for schools and an important component for school funding. All students must have a meal form on file.  This should be done electronically by going to the following link:    www.myschoolapps.com 

or scanning this QR code:  

BUS SAFETY

Whether you take a school bus, public bus, or charter bus for a trip, all students must be aware of the following:

• Wait for the bus on the sidewalk. Do not step on the street.
• Board the bus directly without pushing or shoving. Use the handrail, if provided.
• Remain orderly throughout the ride.
• Talk quietly to your friends on the bus; do not shout or scream.
• Keep hands, arms, legs, and head inside the bus at all times.
• Do not throw objects on the bus or from the windows.
• Do not fight or wrestle on the bus.
• Behave considerately toward the other passengers.
• If you must cross the street when you get off the bus, cross only at the corner after making eye contact with the driver. Cross at least ten feet in front of the bus. Be careful of oncoming traffic, and go directly to the opposite sidewalk.
• Always respect bus drivers and chaperones on trips.

We wish everyone a safe ride!

Crisis Plan Protocol

The counselors will assess the student to determine the immediacy of the risk.  The administration is notified.  911 is called (if the risk is imminent).  The parent is contacted.  If a student is hospitalized, upon return to school s/he must have a medical note and be accompanied by a parent to meet with the counselor before returning to classes.  The counselor will follow up as needed with outside therapists, students and families.  Communication will be on-going with the teachers in order to be aware of any changes/concerns for the student.  Confidentiality will be respected and maintained.  Crisis Intervention Team Chair:  Mr. Mayer; Suicide Prevention Liaison:  Ms. Wilson.

Valedictorian/Salutatorian Policy

The Valedictorian will be selected under the following criteria:

1.  The top-ranked student (as determined by STARS (the DOE student record system) in February of their senior year).

2.  The student must have passed all classes including those not averaged on their report cards or transcript (e.g. physical education).

3.  A panel of teachers will review the students’ records to verify satisfactory citizenship.

4.  The student must have entered the Academy by the first day of the second semester of their sophomore year.

The Salutatorian will be the second-ranked student selected under the criteria mentioned above.

In case of a tie: If two students tie for the honor of valedictorian the award will go to the student who has taken and passed the greatest number of New York State Regents exams.  If the students are still tied, the award will be given to the student with the highest Regents average on the exams needed for a New York State Regents diploma.  The student with the higher average here will be valedictorian and the other student will be salutatorian.  If two students tie for salutatorian the tie will be broken in the same manner as above.  The student with the higher average will be salutatorian and the student with the lower average will be ranked third.

If the honor is refused the next highest ranked student by the above criteria will take his/her place.  

Any discrepancies with the above policy will be handed to a panel that consists of the principal, assistant principal, senior class advisor, one guidance counselor and a dean.

WE WISH EVERYONE MUCH ACADEMIC SUCCESS!!

Community Service

Overview and Requirements:  Community Service and Volunteerism are significant aspects of the college application and scholarship process therefore, the Academy of American Studies as a college preparatory high school, requires all 10th, 11th, and 12th graders to complete a minimum community service hour requirement. Students will benefit from the opportunity to make meaningful connections and enrich the lives of others by providing service for individuals or public organizations for the benefit of the community. Service should be performed outside of school hours unless under the supervision of a staff member. Service credit can be awarded to active members of student organizations and teams.   The Academy of American Studies Community Service Requirement will be documented on the student’s Final Report Card and Official High School Transcript.   Successful completion of all 3-year grade requirements will be necessary for a student to earn the Academy Honors Endorsement on their diploma.

The Criteria: 

1. Students are required to complete a minimum number of service hours per year during sophomore, junior, and senior year.

10th Grade Minimum Requirement = 20 hours, 11th Grade Minimum Requirement = 35 hours, 12th Grade Minimum Requirement = 45 hours

• Honor Society Community Service Requirement: Grade requirement plus an additional 25 hours
• Students who complete more than 50 or 100 hours will be recognized at the annual Academic Awards Night in June of each school year.

2. A community service class and grade will appear on your final report card and transcript.

3. All community service must be performed without monetary reward, however, just because you work for free, does not mean it is community service. If you work for a private business, or a doctor’s office—you are not performing community service. To be sure your hours will count, work for NON-PROFIT organizations. Places like the YMCA or senior-citizen homes are ideal.

4. The service hours cannot be performed for a family member unless pre-approved by Ms. Dudley..

5. As a standard, the community service should benefit at least one person other than the student or the student’s relative(s).

6. Students may select their own sites/activity using the list provided in the Community Service handbook or they may seek approval for an alternative site/activity from Ms. Dudley.  The community service handbook can be found on the Academy website.

7. Students may earn community service hours performed with a club and/or school sports team. To earn the credit, you must have personally put in the hours and your advisor/coach must verify your contribution and performance to the community service project. Students can only earn up to ten hours of community service through their club and/or school sports team participation.

8. You must have signatures on the Community Service grids verifying the exact hours and dates which you volunteered. If you misplace your grid, you will find new ones in Room 111 .

9. Students who perform 100 or more hours for any organization or individual must submit a letter of documentation/recommendation from the sponsor of the community service activity.

10. Upon completion of their volunteer work, students will write a reflection describing their experience. You should include photos to document your service as part of your reflection. See Ms. Dudley for specific guidelines.

11. If you have any questions, please see Ms. Dudley BEFORE you begin the community service. It is better to find out your service would not count—before you start it!

12. If you volunteer on a regular basis for an organization or charity, make sure to get a letter of recommendation as documentation of your service.

13. Community Service that is performed in June, July, and August will count towards your requirements for the upcoming school year.

“Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing”-T. Roosevelt

TENTATIVE SCHOOL WIDE GRADING POLICY

based on the NYC Policy Toolkit and our Teacher Handbook

40% Summative Activities (including but not limited to):

• Exams, Projects, Full length Assessments, Demonstration of Mastery, Etc.

35% Formative Activities (including but not limited to):

• Quizzes, Homework, Exit Slips, Portfolio Pieces, etc.

25% Activities to support accuracy, equity, and social-emotional well-being (including but not limited to):

• Discussion

• Questioning

• Comprehension

• Addressing Learning Goals or Targets

• Effort

• Progress

• Growth

• Additional Appropriate Items

As an annualized school, grades students receive in annualized courses for each marking period will count for ALL marking periods.  The final transcript grade will appear in the “final” column on the report card based on the 6th marking period grade.  For semester courses, this policy applies to marking periods 3 (end of fall semester) and 6 (end of spring semester)

Application of the school wide grading policy is subject to adaptation based upon the Chancellor’s emphasis on creativity, empathy, compassion, and flexibility in these unique times.

POSSIBLE REPORT CARD GRADES

86-100 Grades may be given in increments of 1 (86, 87, 88, 89, etc.)

65-85          Grades are to be given in multiples of 5 (65, 70, 75, 80, 85)

58          Failing with the potential to pass for the next marking period (N/A MP 6)

55          Failing grade for academic reasons

50          Failing grade for academic reasons

45          Frequently absent, failing for academic reasons

40          Has not reported the first day of school or the first day of a semester

NL          New Admit; no credit granted

        60 is not a valid grade at Academy of American Studies

        A, B, C, D, F--Leadership

        Students auditing courses will be graded the same as all other students

        P or F--lab, team gym, service, or Apex

        Z-lab--# of labs completed since the first day of school

Check with your individual teacher for more information.

Report Cards, Marking Periods and Conferences

Things to know...

• Students will receive 6 report cards per year.
• Grades are annualized on the students’ official high school transcripts.
• Grades are cumulative.  This means that a test, homework, or project given in September will count for the October, December, January, March, May and June report cards.  Speak to your teachers about make up work, extra credit and credit support.

Tentative Calendar:

Marking period 1 ends:  Thursday, 11/10/2022                Report card #1:  Thursday, 11/17/2022

Marking period 2 ends:  Monday, 12/19/2022                Report card #2:  Friday, 12/23/2022

Marking period 3 ends:  Friday, 1/20/2023                Report card #3:  Tuesday, 1/31/2023

Marking period 4 ends:  Friday, 3/17/2023                Report card #4:  Thursday, 3/23/2023

Marking period 5 ends:  Thursday, 4/20/2023                Report card #5:  Friday, 4/28/2023

Marking period 6 ends:  Friday, 6/9/2023                        Report card #6:  Tuesday, 6/27/2023

Scheduled Parent Teacher Conferences:

Parent Teacher Conferences will be virtual.  Instructions to set up appointments will be sent in October and February.

Fall– Thursday, November 17, 2022 6- 8:30 pm;       Friday, November 18, 2022– 1 - 3 pm

Spring– Thursday, March 23, 2023 6- 8:30 pm;         Friday, March 24, 2023– 1- 3 pm

Immunization Requirements

A healthy school setting gives all students the best chance to learn and grow. Vaccines are very important to this effort. They protect children from getting and spreading diseases that can make them very sick. For this reason, we require children aged 2-months to 18-years-old who are entering or attending child care, public school, or private school be vaccinated against certain diseases.  For information on what vaccines are mandated so that students are not excluded from school, please visit the following website:

https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/health-and-wellness/immunizations

DOE guidance states COVID vaccines are recommended but not required for all students.  At this point, they are required for members of PSAL athletic teams.

Chancellor’s Regulations & DOE Policies

• A-831 (Student-to-student sexual harrassment):

https://www.schools.nyc.gov/docs/default-source/default-document-library/a-831

• A-832 (bullying):

https://www.schools.nyc.gov/docs/default-source/default-document-library/a-832-student-to-student-discrimination-harassment-intimidation-and-or-bullying

DOE POLICIES

• School Health Policy- COVID-19 & Monkeypox Guidance:

https://infohub.nyced.org/school-year/school-year-2022-23/school-health-policy

• Respect for All: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/school-environment/respect-for-all/respect-for-all-handouts

STUDENT DRESS CODE

Are you dressed appropriately whether in person or virtually?

In order to maintain a positive learning environment, it is expected that Academy students dress in a professional manner. We expect Academy students to be dressed appropriately to ensure safety and to keep the focus on teaching and learning. We would like all parents and guardians to remind students of proper dress protocols on campus.

Prohibited forms of dress for ALL students at Academy of American Studies include, but are not limited to:

• Hats or caps (with the exception of headwear worn for religious observance).
• Hoods not to be worn inside the building (hooded sweatshirt or other shirts lowered).
• Clothing that contains references to drugs, alcohol, sex, violence, racism, or gang-affiliation.
• Clothing that does not provide coverage of torso, undergarments, and private body parts, including see-through garments of any kind.
• Flip-flops.
• Sunglasses while indoors.

If a student comes to school wearing clothing prohibited by the Dress Code, then the student’s parents will be notified, the student may be subject to the interventions and disciplinary responses set forth in the Discipline Code, and the student will be expected to make appropriate adjustments to his/her clothing to conform with the Dress Code (e.g., turning shirts inside out, borrowing temporary clothing until the end of the school day, etc.).

If you are not sure if your outfit is appropriate, please ask a staff member

for their guidance.

Academy Policy on Grade Levels and Basic Credits

Students need a minimum of 44 credits to graduate

If you have questions about any of the criteria above, please see a guidance counselor. NOTE:  Some Regents requirements have been waived due to the pandemic.  Speak to your counselor for specific information.

Advanced Placement Program

As part of our college preparatory initiative, the Academy of American Studies is proud to offer Advanced Placement courses in the following disciplines:

American History, Calculus, Economics, English Language, English Literature, European History, Government, Human Geography, Spanish Language

All Advanced Placement Classes are rigorous courses that can lead to college credit depending on the exam score in May.  Students must make a strong commitment to accept a workload requiring intensive reading and writing.  There is a large time commitment as well.  Students must show an excellent work ethic with an academic history of handing in homework and projects on time as well as excellent attendance.  

Once a student has been programmed into a class, s/he may not withdraw from the class without first undergoing a review by a committee composed of the Principal, Assistant Principal, Guidance Counselor, and teacher.

All AP fees must be paid in full by November 2022.

For questions about AP Exam Registration see Ms. Cancryn.

For questions about AP eligibility see your guidance counselor.

NOTE:  If a student does not take the AP exam, they are not entitled to receive 1.10 credits for the advanced placement course.

College Now Program

The CUNY College Now Program allows eligible Juniors and Seniors to earn up to 12 FREE CUNY credits while earning high school credits.  Students are able to take classes here at the Academy or on the campus of LaGuardia College.

The following courses are currently offered at the Academy through College Now for college credit:

Art History 1 & 2, Critical Thinking, Reading the Biography, Literacy and Propaganda, Elementary Statistics,

College Algebra & Trig, Public Speaking, Topics in Biological Science, English Composition, and Psychology

For questions about the College Now program email Mr. Randle.

Middle School Acceleration

Students who have taken high school classes must pass coursework and pass a regents (or have had the exam waived due to the pandemic) at the end of the instructional sequence in order to receive high school credit.  At the Academy, this includes second language proficiency exams (oral & written), Earth Science, Living Environment, and Common Core Algebra 1, US History, English, etc.  Credit cannot be given for courses taken in 7th grade.  Check with your guidance counselor to see if you have received credit.

Changing Your Address and/or Phone Number?

Please keep the school informed of any changes in your contact information in a timely manner!

It is of the utmost importance that the school has accurate contact information on record at all times.  Parents/Guardians must fill out the Emergency Contact survey at:

www.tinyurl.com/AASEmergencyCard    

If you are moving/changing your address:

• parents should notify the school directly as soon as possible
• parents should bring a utility bill with the new address to room 101 or email Ms. Janette Ortiz at Jortiz11@schools.nyc.gov
• fill out a new blue emergency card as soon as possible and update the survey:  www.tinyurl.com/AASEmergencyCard

If you have updated phone contact information:

• parents should notify the school directly as soon as possible
• students bring the new information room 101 or email Ms. Janette Ortiz at Jortiz11@schools.nyc.gov
• fill out a new blue emergency card as soon as possible and update the survey:  www.tinyurl.com/AASEmergencyCard

If you are changing schools:

• parents should notify the school directly as soon as possible by calling (929) 487-1910 x1013 AND email Ms. Janette Ortiz at Jortiz11@schools.nyc.gov
• an exit interview with the guidance counselor and/or assistant principal will be arranged

COVID-19 Guidance for the 2022-2023 School Year

Vaccination

Vaccination is the best way to prevent COVID-19. Encourage eligible students and staff to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations.

• Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations includes getting all booster doses (for everyone who is eligible) and additional doses (for some people who are immunocompromised). For more information, visit bit.ly/cdc-covid-vaccination-schedules.
• Nonpublic schools can establish policies for students or staff to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations to attend or work, respectively.
• All New York City public school students and staff who participate in high-risk Public School Athletic League sports or competitive after-school sports, and students who participate in high- risk after-school extracurricular activities (such as chorus, musical theater and dance teams) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, per a Commissioner’s Order. To read the Commissioner’s Order, visit on.nyc.gov/covid-vaccination-extracurricular

Staying Home if Sick                                                                                                         
Tell students and staff to stay home and get tested for COVID-19 if they have symptoms. Schools should offer at-home test kits to students and staff who have symptoms. Students and staff who use at-home test kits should take two tests 24 hours apart.
                                                        
Isolating if Positive for COVID-19                                                        
Students and staff who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate (stay home) for five days. They can return to school on Day 6 if they have no symptoms or their symptoms improved, and must wear a mask for 10 days after their symptoms began or positive test date (whichever is earlier).
                                                         
Getting Tested if Exposed to COVID-19                                                
Students and staff who were exposed to COVID-19 should get tested five days, wear a well-fitting mask for 10 days, and check for fever and other symptoms for 10 days after their last exposure. Schools should offer at-home test kits to students and staff who may have been exposed while at school. Students and staff who use at-home test kits should take two tests 24 hours apart. If symptoms begin, they should isolate and get tested for COVID-19 right away 

Wearing Masks

Masks help protect the person wearing it and prevent people — including those who have COVID-19 and do not know they are sick — from spreading the virus to others. Schools should help students and staff who wear masks feel comfortable when doing so                                        

• Students and staff, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask when:        

• Returning to school after testing positive for COVID-19 through Day 10 after their symptoms began or positive test date (whichever is earlier). This includes when traveling on a school bus.
• Entering their school’s medical room or nurse’s office, or a school-based health center
• Exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms at school        

• Students and staff, regardless of vaccination status, should strongly consider wearing a mask:

• After being exposed to someone who has COVID-19, whether the exposure occurred in or outside of school. Students and staff who were exposed to COVID-19 should wear a mask for 10 days after their last exposure and get tested on Day 5.
• If they are moderately to severely immunocompromised and recommended by their health care provider
• In crowded indoor settings                                 

• Students and staff, regardless of vaccination status, may choose to wear a mask all the time or when it makes them feel comfortable (such as when traveling on school bus or for personal health reasons, or because they are not vaccinated or live with someone who is at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19)

For more information, visit nyc.gov/health/coronavirus or bit.ly/cdc-schools-operational-guidance.

The NYC Health Department may change recommendations as the situation evolves.

GRADES, ATTENDANCE, AND MESSAGING

As we begin our preparations for the first day of school, I want to let you know that this year, our school will begin to use the new DOE-created Grades, Attendance, and Messaging applications.

These tools are designed to help you monitor your child’s progress, increase your ability to stay informed,  and connect directly with our school’s teachers and administrators, while keeping your child’s personal information as safe as possible.

In the fall, all the information from these new applications will be available to families in the NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) Portal. Currently, you can see your child’s report cards, view attendance, update important contact information, and more in NYCSA. If you have not created a NYCSA account, please create one before school starts on September 8. If you need help creating a NYCSA account, please contact Ms. Alaimo (DAlaimo8@schools.nyc.gov or [929] 487 1910 x 1011). Below you’ll find a brief overview of the applications. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Grades, Attendance, and Messaging Family Guide

The DOE Grades application is an electronic gradebook for teachers.

• Teachers can create and grade assignments while maintaining all data fully secure and within the DOE.
• Teachers can import assignments from our school’s Learning Management System, [iLearn/Google Classroom], meaning that teachers will not have to do duplicate data entry.
• Students will be able to see assignments and assignment-level grades from the DOE Grades application in TeachHub in the fall.
• Parents will be able to see assignments and assignment-level grades in the NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) Portal in the fall.

DOE Attendance is an electronic attendance tool.

• Families already have access to their child’s attendance in NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) Portal.
• Teachers and school administrators will be able to quickly and securely update student attendance throughout the day.

The new DOE Messaging application offers multiple methods for outreach to families, such as voice calls, emails, and SMS texts.

• Our school staff will be able to send families messages by course/class, by grade, or even to the entire school.
• Messages can be sent in English and the nine DOE languages

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• Students at Academy who need a NYCSA (DOE) password reset: https://forms.gle/A8cdMERcg5TWjEop6
• If you are a guardian and need a code or password:

https://forms.gle/kHMyX5Pg6w1FvQWf8