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Student Handbook

For any additional information please contact the Al-Huda Academy office

Phone: 630-270-3130 Fax: 630-597-7102

7455 Jensen Blvd.

Hanover Park, IL 60133

www.alhudaacademy.com

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VISION STATEMENT

To develop Islamic values through divine guidance, with an intricate balance of

academic excellence and Islamic Studies, that enables students to achieve their

maximum educational ability and prepare them for future roles in a global and

diverse society.

MISSION STATEMENT

“Adab Before Academics”

Al-Huda Academy’s Motto

CARE for myself,

CARE for others,

CARE for my school,

and

CARE for my community!

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Parent/Student Commitment Form

Parents of students at Al-Huda Academy are expected to pledge to the following

commitment as your child(ren) are being admitted into the school. With Allah as

your witness parents will make a commitment to:

• Raise your child as a strong Muslim.

• Remind your child to pray 5 times daily.

• Try to pray with your child at least once per day.

• Encourage your child to dress Islamically inside and outside of school.

• Actively support the school, its policies, and its activities.

• Be aware of your child’s assignments on a daily basis.

• Require the development of your child’s Islamic character: no lying, no

disrespect to others, any mocking, bullying or raising your voice.

• Understand and develop in your child respect for others and for

him/herself.

• Emphasize to your child the necessity to come to school in clean clothes

and with proper hygiene daily.

• Encourage your child not to slouch, not to sit with one leg on the other,

not to talk back to teachers or each other, to always face the front of the

class, not to deface property, and to keep the school clean.

• Emphasize to your child the importance of coming to school on time.

Al-Huda Academy Administration reserves the right to admit or reject the

applicant, if such action deems necessary and in the best interest of the school.

Al-Huda Academy is presently not equipped to handle Special Education services

for students. Al-Huda Academy may refuse to accept any child who cannot

participate in our program due to any concerns where we cannot meet the needs

of the student.

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Table of Contents

1. Age Appropriate Registration 6

1.1. Grade Placement Waiver Form 6

1.2. Little learners 7

2. Arrival/Dismissal Procedures 7

3. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Procedures 8

4. Attendance 9

4.1. Student Absences 9

4.2. Student Tardy Policy 9

4.3. After Care 10

5. Attire/Appearance 10

5.1. Female Students 10

5.2. Male Students 10

5.3. Hygiene 10

6. Bell Schedule 11

7. Birthday Policy 11

8. Bullying 12

9. Cell Phones/ Internet Use/ Social Media 12

9.1. Cell Phone Policy 12

9.2. School Email 13

9.3. Chain of Command Protocol 13

10. Child Abuse or Neglect Suspicions 13

11. Clubs 13

12. Conferences 13

13. Discipline Policy 14

13.1. Little Leaners, Pre-School, Pre-K,

Kindergarten Discipline Plan 14

13.2. 1st-2nd Grade Discipline Plan 14

13.3. 3rd-6th Grade Discipline Plan 14

14. Detention of a Student 15

15. Early Release Days 15

16. Emergency Drills/Safety 15

17. Strangers in our Building or Near School

Property 16

18. Extended Leave 16

19. Field Trips 16

20. Food/Treats Policy 17

21. Grading Policy 17

21.1. Grading Policies and Report Cards 17

21.2. Grade Changes 18

22. Health requirements/ Immunizations/ Food

Allergies/ Medication 18

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22.1. Physical Examinations/ Immunizations 18

22.2. Vision and Hearing Screening 18

22.3. Dental Screening 19

22.4. Immunizations 19

22.5. Food Allergies 20

22.6. Medication 20

23. Holiday Celebrations 21

24. Homework 21

25. Library/Media 21

26. Lunch 22

27. Mobile Therapy Centres of America 22

28. Open House/Meet Your Teacher Day 22

29. PTA 22

30. Registration 23

31. School Directory 23

32. Services Available at Al-Huda Academy 24

33. Student Records 24

34. Tuition 25

35. Visitation 25

36. Weapons 25

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AGE-APPROPRIATE REGISTRATION

Al-Huda Academy is a full-time Islamic school in Schaumburg, Illinois, with

classes from Pre-school through 6th grade. We follow strict policies for registering

students in age-appropriate grades.

Children must be three years old by September 30th and potty trained to be

enrolled in the Pre-school program. Children who are enrolling for Pre-

Kindergarten have to be 4 years old by September 30th and for Kindergarten,

children have to be 5 years old by September 30th.

Grade Placement Waiver Form

The State of Illinois determines a cut-off date of September 1st for children

entering public schools. As a courtesy to our community, Al-Huda Academy

extends that cut-off date and accepts students who turn the proper age by

September 30th. However, if you are to withdraw your child from Al-Huda

Academy at a later date and take them to the public schools, please be informed

that the public schools will place them in the age appropriate grade based on

September 1st cut-off date. At Al-Huda Academy, we want our families to be

advised that Al Huda Academy is not liable if your child is demoted to a lower

grade. No relaxation on payments will be entertained from Al-Huda Academy

based on these criteria.

Illinois Public

Schools

Al-Huda Academy

3 Year old

Program (Pre-

school)

Cut-off date of

September 1st

3 Year old

Program

Cut-off date of

September 30th

4 Year old

Program (Pre-

K)

Cut-off date of

September 1st

4 Year old

Program

Cut-off date of

September 30th

5 Year old

Program

(Kindergarten)

Cut-off date of

September 1st

5 Year old

Program

(Kindergarten)

Cut-off date of

September 30th

6 Year old

Program (1st

Grade)

Cut-off date of

September 1st

6 Year old

Program (1st

Grade)

Cut-off date of

September 30th

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Little Learners

The State of Illinois determines a cut-off date of September 1st for children

entering pre-school. As a courtesy to our community, Al-Huda Academy extends

that cut-off date and accepts students who turn the proper age by September 30th.

If your child does not meet the cut off age of September 30th and does not qualify

for preschool. However, we are willing to accommodate your child with the

acknowledgment that if you choose Al-Huda again then you will re-enroll

him/her for the following school year for the same grade.

New students, 1st grade and up, coming to Al-Huda Academy from schools within

the United States and abroad, who do not meet the age-appropriate cut-off dates,

as per the Illinois State Board of Education will be given a placement test to

determine their grade. Placement tests will be based on academics and social

skills that need to be appropriately developed for the required grade level.

ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

Arrival/Drop-Off Procedures

• Drop off time is between 8:15-8:30 a.m. (school start time is 8:30 a.m.)

and should be strictly enforced.

• Students have to be dropped off at door #1.

• Morning assembly starts at 8:20 am.

• Doors will be locked by 8:30 am

• Tardy will be noted at 8:31 am

• The door will remain locked at all times.

• No students are allowed to open the door/windows or stand near the doors.

• Parents cannot be allowed into the building for safety concerns.

• Parent and teacher meetings during drop off times are strongly

discouraged. Please make a scheduled appointment to meet with the

teacher, so not to take him/her away from their classroom responsibilities

with the students during the instructional day. This also includes drop off

and dismissal times as teachers must remain attentive to the care of the

students at all times.

• During pick up time, parents are strongly discouraged to pick up students

before the dismissal time of 3:30 p.m., especially on Fridays.

• All families will be assigned and given a family # ID card with a number.

If you lose your card or need an additional one, you may pick it up in the

office for a small fee.

• Parents must have their dismissal number cards in the car where the

dismissal teachers can clearly read the numbers.

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• Parents should inform the office, email the teacher, or leave a message for

the teacher if they have to pick their child up early for an appointment or

any other reason.

• Parents must give their permission/authorization to office/teacher for

anyone other than them that will be picking up their child/ren during

dismissal and that person must have their ID available before a student is

allowed to leave with them.

PICK-UP AND DROP-OFF PROCEDURES

All Cars must enter from Entrance – A of the parking lot.

All Cars must exit from the Exit - B of the parking lot

You can only make right turn exiting from school parking lot during pick up

and drop off times.

DROP OFF: Students must be dropped off at the “Students drop off’ Location.

Cars must NOT be left unattended at the “Students drop off” location.

If you are visiting, please park your car at the proper parking spot.

Parents of Preschool, Pre-k and KG students are requested to park their cars at

the parking lot and walk their children into the reception area. Students will be

collected by teachers who will escort the students to their respected classrooms.

Parents will be allowed to enter the building for drop off on the first day of school

ONLY.

Due to strict security reasons, no parent will be allowed inside the building unless

with a prior appointment.

PICK UP: All parents will be provided with a number card. When your car will

drive up in the “drop off lane,” this number has to be displayed on your car

window. Your child will be dismissed to walk to your car based on that number.

These numbers are strictly given per family. They are not to be shared with

anyone outside the child’s family.

Parents must prior inform the office and the teacher if another guardian other than

a parent will be picking your child. If another guardian other than a parent is

picking your child, they must come into reception to disclose their identity to pick

your child.

TIMINGS: Drop off will be between 8:15 am until 8:30 am. After 8:35am doors

will be locked.

Pick up will be between 3:30 pm until 3:40 pm. Doors will be locked at 3:40 pm.

Half Day students: Parents must come in and pick their child from the

reception/lobby.

WINTER INCLEMENT WEATHER DISMISSAL:

During winter months (November till March) due to extreme cold we will be

conducting indoor dismissal. This is for the safety of our students and staff.

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Parents will be required to come in the lobby with their family number card for

pick up. This kind of inclement weather dismissal can be announced during heavy

rain or severe windy conditions as well.

We request your patience as these are necessary procedures for the safety of all

our students and staff. Students not picked up by 3:40 will be left in the custody

of After Care teacher. Parents after 3:40 will need to walk to door #8 (gym door)

and pick their children. They will require to pay late pick up fee accordingly.

After 6:00 p.m., if the student is not picked up by an authorized adult, then the

parents will be charged $1.00 for every 1 minute. If staff is not able to get in touch

with you regarding your child’s pick till 6 pm, Al-Huda Academy has the right to

notify the law enforcement for child’s safety and concern.

ATTENDANCE

• All students are expected to attend each class every day unless they are

excused for an illness, emergency, or have been given administrative

permission for a leave of absence.

• Parents will email or call the teacher to inform her of the absence.

• Try to schedule all family commitments during Thanksgiving Break,

Winter Break, and Spring Break.

Student Absences

If a student is absent for more than 10 days consecutively (vacation, unexcused,

uninformed etc…) they will receive an incomplete on their report card for that

particular term (All grades). An exception can be made if a child is consecutively

absent due to sickness.

For an extended vacation, no matter what grade, a student leave of absence form

must be submitted to the Dean of Student Services and tuition payments have to

be made. Any student, who will be paying tuition for that month, can be provided

with a maximum of 10 days of homework during the time of their leave upon

request. The parents will be liable to coach the students for all of the missed

curriculum covered during the extended absence. In order for students to be

promoted to the next grade, it is a requirement that they have 75% attendance

throughout the year. Students who have less than 75% of attendance will be

required to complete extra credit work in order to be promoted to the next grade.

This applies to all students 1st-6th grades.

Student Tardy Policy

Students are required to be at school by 8:15 am. After 8:30 am they will be

counted as tardy. Students arriving after 8:30 will be given a recess detention.

After four tardies, a meeting will be scheduled with the VP to discuss the reason

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for the tardies and how this can be improved. The VP will administer a

consequence for the parents. Consequences may include Volunteer Hours at the

Academy.

Please be aware that Al-Huda Academy will follow this policy strictly for all

kindergarten and up students.

After Care

After Care program is run in the academy for students who are enrolled to be

picked up later than 3:30 pm. A child must be picked up at his/her scheduled time.

Any child who is not picked up after 3:40 p.m. will be sent to After Care and

parents will need to pay $10 per hour. Any child picked up after 6:00 p.m. will

be charged $1 every minute.

ATTIRE/APPEARANCE

Female Students

• School uniforms with proper Al-Huda logo. (Kindergarten and up)

• 1st-4th must have a navy blue or white scarf at school daily for Salaat (left

in the classroom or in their backpack), which covers all hair, ears, and

neck during Salaat.

• 5th and 6th grade girls should wear a scarf/hijab daily to school.

• Personal hygiene is expected and fingernails must be kept short and clean.

• Modesty should be displayed in all female attire while on school premises.

Male Students

• Male students are expected to dress in School uniforms with proper Al-

Huda logo. (Kindergarten and up)

• Male students 5th grade and up should wear an Islamic hat (preferably and

required on Fridays)

• Personal hygiene is expected and fingernails must be kept short and clean.

• Modesty should be displayed in all male attire while on school premises.

Hygiene

• Teachers will make surprise checks to see if students are wearing a clean

uniform and proper shoes (no flip flops, open toe, high heels, etc…).

• Personal hygiene is expected for all students.

• Nails must be short and clean.

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• Hair should be clean and pulled back out of their face.

• Random lice checks will be conducted by the lead teacher and if found,

the parents will be called and students will be sent home immediately. The

students cannot attend school unless fully cleaned.

• Speeding Tickets will be given to students that would need to be signed

by parents, if proper uniform and neatness is not practiced.

BELL SCHEDULE

8:20-8:30 a.m. Morning Assembly

8:30-8:50 am Tutoring/Study Hall/ Second Gym

8:50-9:20 a.m. Period #1

9:20-10:00 a.m. Period #2

10:00-10:50 a.m. Period #3

10:50-11:30 a.m. Period #4

11:30-12:15 p.m. Lunch Break/Recess

12:15-1:00 p.m. Period #5

1:00-1:20 p.m. Prayer Time

1:20-2:00 p.m. Period #6

2:00-2:40 p.m. Period #7

2:40-3:20 p.m. Period #8

3:20-3:30 p.m. Dismissal

BIRTHDAY POLICY

Al-Huda Academy acknowledges that students and parents feel that Birthdays are

special days. However, we must also ensure that party celebration do not disrupt

the learning process. Al-Huda recognizes the importance of wellness, good

nutrition and an active lifestyle in the overall health of our students. The school

and our staff are responsible for positively influencing student beliefs and habits

in these areas. Al-Huda Academy Staff feels strongly that by following these

guidelines, we are promoting a healthy lifestyle and maximizing student learning and following the guidelines outlined by the ISBE!

Make a donation to your child’s class in honor of your child’s birthday

Contribute a book to the Al-Huda Academy Library

Bring in non-food items for classmates such as pencils, erasers, bookmarks,

etc.

Provide goodie bags (with non-food items) for classmates which can be

distributed and taken home at the end of the day.

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Donate an educational game or book to the class.

Cutting of cake or distributing donuts, candy or other food items will not be

allowed. Money donated will be used for educational resources and its expense

will be mentioned on the class website.

This policy was based on models set by other schools, discussions with staff,

parent initiated feedback and our aim to positively influence students overall

health and learning. If you have queries, please contact Al-Huda Academy office.

BULLYING

Bullying of any kind at Al-Huda Academy is a violation of Illinois State Law.

Bullying may include aggressive or negative gestures, or written, verbal physical

acts that place another student in reasonable fear or harm to a person or property.

It also includes the effect of insulting or demeaning any student in such a way as

to disrupt or interfere with Al-Huda’s educational missions or the education of

any student. Bullying most often occurs when another student asserts physical or

psychological power over, or is cruel to, another student. Such behavior may

include, but is not limited to: pushing, hitting, threatening, name-calling, or other

physical or verbal conduct of a belittling or intimidating nature. Students at Al-

Huda are not to participate in any form of cyber bullying or threats using any

form of electronic communication. The parents of any student found guilty of

bullying will be notified and the student will be referred to the Administrator to

determine the appropriate discipline procedure to address the behavior.

CELL PHONES/INTERNET USE/SOCIALMEDIA

Cell Phone Policy

Al-Huda doesn’t require the need for students to carry any cell phones, because

they are dropped off and picked up by authorized adults, mostly parents. During

school hours, students are always under the supervision of a teacher. However, if

you allow your child to carry a cell phone for any other reasons, they must first

have approval from the Principal. If a student has a cell phone, it must remain

switched off and in their backpack during the school day. Al-Huda Academy is

not liable for any damages for any cellular device. If this privilege is broken, then

the teacher can confiscate the phone and keep it until it is picked up by the parent.

Teachers and Administration have the authority to check the phone calls or text

messages of students who are carrying the phone. No other electronic devices are

permitted at school, such as: video games, ipods, ipads, tablets, or any game

device.

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School Email

Students 4th grade and up will be provided with a school email. This is a

privilege for students to be able to better communicate with their teachers about

educational content. All email accounts provided by the school are subject to be

reviewed at any time Students can send and receive to anyone inside our school

system. All emails are automatically scanned for viruses. All email is filtered

for content. Inappropriate use of the Student Email system will result in loss of

access to this privilege.

Chain of Command Protocol

Parents are expected to maintain the levels of hierarchy for any issues, concerns,

or conflict resolutions by following the proper channels or chain of command. In

the event that a parent has a concern, he/she should address the Lead Teacher in

a private and respectful manner by scheduling an appointment. If the

issue/problem is not resolved, or if they are not satisfied with the management of

the concern, feel free to approach the Dean of Student Services for further

consultation about the issue. If necessary a meeting can be scheduled with the

Principal to process the information related to the issue.

CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT SUSPICIONS

Every teacher and staff member at Al-Huda Academy has been trained and

completed the Illinois Mandated Reporter course. Every teacher and staff member

have on file their completed certificates and are bound by state law to report any

suspicious cases of child abuse. Any suspicious circumstances (bruises, unusual

marks, extraordinary tardiness over an extended period of time, apparent hunger,

etc…) will be reported to the Administration for immediate follow-up.

CLUBS

Students 3rd grade and up will have a variety of Clubs to choose from twice a

year. Students will need to sign up for new clubs after each trimester ends. There

will be a fee for each club in order to purchase supplies needed. Clubs will be run

by volunteers from teachers, parents, or community members.

CONFERENCES

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parent/Teacher Conferences occur twice during the school year at the end of each

trimester. Teachers will email a link that guide parents to sign up a slot to visit

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the teachers for a conference. The final trimester is used to conclude the school

year. The final Report Card will be given at the end of the Award ceremony day.

DISCIPLINE POLICY

Little Learners, Pre-school, Pre-K, Kindergarten Discipline Plan

There are different discipline routines followed by each class based on the

developmentally age appropriateness of the plan and of the class. The teachers

will determine which plan works best in their own classroom.

• As a collective whole, a teacher can turn off the lights and countdown

from 10 until their eyes and ears are on the teacher.

• If it’s one particular child, give him/her warnings and then write their

name on the board.

• If they still aren’t behaving, sit with them and ask them what’s going on

and talk with them one-on-one

• Another method is simply saying “1,2,3, all eyes on me” or “sit crisscross

apple sauce, hands in your lap and a bubble in your mouth.”

• “Give me 5” plan is appropriate (2 eyes looking, 2 ears listening, and 1

mouth closed and ready to listen to the teacher).

• Time out (Age=time out minutes-3years old=3 minutes, 4 year old=4

minutes etc…

• Remove from activity (hitting, pushing, shoving, not sharing, etc…)

• Contact parents by email to inform them of the concern.

• ****Under NO circumstances will corporal punishment or any form

of physical punishment be used at Al-Huda Academy for any grade

level.

1st-2nd Grade Discipline Plan

In 1st and 2nd Grades, the teachers will use a plan based on the central theme of

the 4 C’s in our school motto. They can use a clip chart to allow students to keep

track of their own behavior and regularly inform the parents. Teachers will

provide a consequence such as, miss recess or a class detention. Teachers will use

a classroom “Blue Slip” for any disruptive behavior and parents will be informed

if behaviors are reoccurring. After the 3rd “Blue Slip,” the students can be brought

to the office to see the Principal for further follow-up.

3rd-6th Grade Discipline Plan

In 3rd-6th Grades, the teachers will use a plan based on the central theme of the 4

C’s in our school motto. The teachers will provide a consequence such as, miss

recess or classroom detention. Teacher will use a grade appropriate “Blue Slip”

to address behavior concerns in the classroom that will be signed by the parents.

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After the 3rd “Blue Slip,” the students can be brought to the office to see the Vice

Principal for further follow-up. An early morning or lunch detention may be

given.

**** Incidents of “Bullying” for any grade will be addressed case by case and

students may be sent home immediately for extreme circumstances like biting or

physical harm to another student or teacher, or threatening, such as, “I’m going

to kill you or your family.”

DETENTION OF A STUDENT

The teacher will contact parents notifying them of a need for a classroom

detention. If a teacher finds it necessary to provide a detention for a child

before/after school hours, a 24-hour notice to parents is an absolute requirement.

During detention a teacher will give the students an assignment or a packet of

review work that they can complete on their own.

A staff may administer a lunch or early morning or lunch detention as needed.

Students will be given an assignment or review packet to work on from the

teacher while in detention.

Parents have the right to know in advance to make adequate arrangements to

pick/drop the student before/after school hours.

EARLY RELEASE DAYS

Early Release days occur once a month and the dates will be announced in the

new calendar. The purpose of Early Release days are so that teachers can

collaborate and meet in order to be more prepared to meet the needs of the

students. The release dismissal time is 2:15 p.m. for each early release day. After

care will be available on the Early Release days.

EMERGENCY DRILLS/SAFETY

Al-Huda Academy Complies with the State required drills for emergencies and

local fire safety regulations

The drills include the following:

Emergency/Tornado Drill

Fire Drill

Soft Lockdown Drill

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Red Lockdown Drill

Hold in Place

STRANGERS IN OUR BUILDING OR NEAR SCHOOL PROPERTY

All parents and teachers should take the time each month to discuss with your

students some guidelines concerning the topic of “Talking to Strangers.” Here are

some things to consider:

• Children should not get involved with any stranger.

• Children should seek adult help immediately when a stranger is present.

• If the stranger is in a car, try to get the car’s license plate number.

• Try to remember what the person looked like.

EXTENDED LEAVE

Tuition is based on enrolled attendance, not on actual attendance. A

minimum of one month’s fee is required even if your child attend the School

for a portion of a month. There are no credits for vacations or illnesses.

• Students who leave for a vacation in the middle of the academic year will

require filling out the extended leave of absence form.

• A request for textbooks for your child, due to leave or vacation, will

require an extra fee of $50.

• Any student, who will be paying tuition for that month, can be provided

with a maximum of 10 days of homework during the time of their leave

upon request. Regular class newsletters and other emails will be sent

periodically.

• If a student leaves for vacation, it is the parent’s responsibility to submit

all tuition. With no payment the student will be dis-enrolled and your child

will be required to register again upon return.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips constitute our extended classroom approach to learning. Emphasis is

placed on visiting museums, factories, plants, and various labs to acquire a hands-

on knowledge of the subject matter. Additionally, Al-Huda Academy will try and

host school visits by professionals to provide the necessary exposure to many

occupations, thus widening students' selections for career choices. Permission

slips are required and NO phone permission will be accepted. If a parent does not

give permission for a student to participate in a field trip, then the student will

need to be kept at home on the day of the trip. If parent chaperones are required,

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it will be on a first come, first serve basis and they will have to arrange their own

transportation.

Field Trips are treated as a reward for good standing in academic and behavior of

the students. Students receiving any form of behaviour intervention or given more

than one detention due to poor behavior will be reconsidered for field trips. Al-

Huda Academy will strictly follow this rule. Even on the day of the field trip, if a

student is not performing well in his/her behaviour, he/she will be excluded from

the trip.

FOOD/TREATS/BIRTHDAY POLICY

Due to health concerns and class scheduling, Al-Huda Academy has revised our

food /treats policy. All treats and snacks for any occasion if sent to school, must

be approved in advance with classroom teachers. Teachers will inform the rest of

the class student’s parents regarding the provision of treats/snacks. Treats and

snacks sent to class may not require refrigeration. They are recommended to be

store bought with clearly printed list of ingredients on the packaging along with

date of expiry and must be pre-packaged in individual servings. Homemade treats

are not allowed at school.

The reason for this strict interpretation of school policy is because of the growing

number of students who struggle with food allergies, diabetes, and childhood

obesity. Individually packaged items that would be considered healthy snacks

include: pretzels, baked crackers, fruits and granola bars.

School event that may include homemade items will be on

* PTA Bakesale

* Eid Fest.

This exception is made because this event will have parents present for the event

and are responsible for their children to have the available treats.

We revise and review our policy guidelines to serve our students better. We

appreciate your support and understanding as we continue to reflect on how to

provide all students with a safe and healthy environment.

GRADING POLICY/REPORT CARDS

Grading Policies and Report Cards

Teachers will adopt very clear criteria for student evaluation. These criteria will

be clearly defined and outlined in lesson plans, class expectations, and trimester

syllabus. Al-Huda Academy has 3 trimesters during the school year. Teachers

will provide 3 Progress Reports approximately 4-5 weeks after each trimester has

begun. At the end of each trimester, teachers will provide students with a Report

Card.

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The Grading Policy for Pre-School and Pre-K is located in Quick Schools and

provided below:

4- Exceeding Grade level (EX)

3- Grade level developed (GD)

2- Partially Developed (PD)

1- Beginning to Develop (BD)

NE- Not Evaluated

Kindergarten through 6th grades grading scale can also be found in Quick Schools

and is provided below:

A 90-100

B 80-89

C 70-79

D 60-69

F 0-59

Grade Changes

No grade will be altered or changed without consultation with the Lead teacher

and approval by the Administration. It is expected that grades will be supported

by defined and consistent criteria supported by sufficient documentation.

Typically, changes will only be made to correct mathematical errors. However,

changes to grades can take place if inconsistent grading or faulty scores are

discovered.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS/IMMUNIZATIONS/FOOD

ALLERGIES/MEDICATION

Physical Examination/Immunizations

Illinois State Law requires physical examinations by an Illinois licensed

physician and up-to-date immunizations for every student within one year prior

to the date of first entering an Illinois school, and at Kindergarten and sixth

grades.

A written record of the physical examination on a state approved form, signed by

a practicing Illinois physician, and exact dates of immunizations/boosters are

required.

Vision and Hearing Screening

Public Act 95-671, effective January 1, 2008 requires that all children enrolling

in Kindergarten in a public, private, or parochial school and any student enrolling

for the first time shall have a vision and hearing screening.

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Dental Screening

The dental exam verification form is new to the State of Illinois requirements for

school age children in Kindergarten, 2nd and 6th grades. The grade level was

aligned with the development of the 6 and 12 year molars, and the ability to assess

the needs for sealants for those teeth.

Immunizations

Health Requirements 2018-19

Pre-school/Early

Childhood

Physical Exam Dated after 8/18/2014

Must include Diabetes

screening/BMI, Health

history and parent

signature.

DPT 4 doses

Polio (IPV) 3 doses

Hib 1 dose after 15 months ( or

completed series by 12

months)

MMR 2 doses (after 12 months)

Varicella 1 dose (after 12 months)

Hepatitis B 3 doses

Pneumococcal Primary series, or proof of

1 dose after 24 months

Lead screening/testing Testing required for

students residing in 60120

zip code

Mantoux test for

Tuberculosis

Recommended

Kindergarten and

students entering

Illinois schools for the

first time

Physical Exam Dated after 8/18/2014

Must include Diabetes

screening/BMI, Health

history and parent

signature

DPT 4 doses (last one after 4th

birthday)

Polio (IPV) 3 doses (last one after 4th

birthday)

MMR 2 doses (after 12 months)

Varicella 2 doses (after 12 months)

Lead screening/testing Testing required for

students residing in 60120

zip code

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Mantoux test for

Tuberculosis

Recommended

Vision Exam Completed by

Optometrist,

ophthalmologist or

physician who provides

complete eye exams. Due

by October 15th.

Dental Exam Completed by licensed

dentist. Due by May 15th.

2nd Grade Dental Exam Completed by licensed dentist. (Due by May 15th)

6th Grade

Physical Exam Dated after 8/18/2014 Must

include Diabetes

screening/BMI, Health

history and parent

signature.

Tdap 1 dose (must be after age 7)

MMR 2 doses (after 12 months)

Varicella 2 doses (after 12 months)

Meningococcal Proof of having received

one does on or after the

11th birthday.

Hepatitis B 3 doses

Mantoux test for

Tuberculosis

Recommended

Dental Exam Completed by a licensed

dentist. Due by May 15th.

Food Allergies

Parents must inform the class teacher of any food allergies that students have. An

official note from a physician is recommended to be on file at the school. If

students have a special diet, please inform the teacher, such as gluten free, vegan,

etc…

Medication

A request to administer medication must have an authorization form that is filled

out and signed by the parents. Only the school administration will administer

medication from a properly labelled jar or bottle. No medicine will be given

without a physician’s note submitted to the school office. The same also applies

for a simple Tylenol or cough medicine.

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HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

Due to the nature of being an Islamic School, we only celebrate major Islamic

holidays, such as (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) and observe and close the school

on Dr. Martin L. King Day and Labor Day. However, all holidays and

celebrations that are celebrated in the United States will be taught as awareness

and part of the academic and patriotic curriculum. Students will be educated about

different holidays but will not celebrate them at school. Students will have Spring

Break, Winter Break and Summer Break.

HOMEWORK

It is optional for a teacher to send extra practice at home. Al-Huda Academy gives

homework to students as a review of previously taught skills. Homework is not

based on new skills work. There will be study hall/tutoring time provided to all

3rd grade and above students to complete their incomplete work or other

homework. Homework includes reading log, review packet and incomplete

schoolwork, and will be based on grade appropriate time as follows:

Preschool and Pre-k: 10 minutes each day

Kindergarten and 1st grade: 20 minutes each day

2nd and 3rd grade: 30 minutes each day

4th grade and up: 1 hour (this includes the reading log as well)

We encourage students to practice skills at home using a variety of technological

tools, as most of them have access to computers, ipads, and iphones. As an

Islamic School, we encourage and expect students to be actively completing their

5 daily prayers and can utilize this extra time for memorizing Qur'anic verses.

LIBRARY/MEDIA

Al-Huda Academy has a very current and growing Library/Media with programs

that allow students to work on research projects. Students have access to

computers and books to expand their curiosity and enrichment, through building

a love of reading.

We are implementing the use of school laptops in the 3rd-6th grade classrooms.

When the students are using school laptops, it is expected that they will take good

care of these expensive tools. In case of any damage to the school laptops, the

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parents will be charged the compensation that can go up to $ 375 OR the parents

will be bound to replace the same brand of laptops.

The students will be prohibited from going on any inappropriate websites. If

found guilty of this, the students will be removed from the devise immediately,

and will face other consequences.

LUNCH

Lunchroom Expectations and Information

Students are expected to demonstrate appropriate Islamic manners and etiquette

during their lunch periods. They are expected to clean up their area and place

trash in the designated area. Hot lunch option is provided through a Muslim

vendor and all food is halal. The menu will be emailed to you monthly. The cost

is $65.00 flat rate for the whole month or you may choose on a daily basis of

$4.00 a day. There is a $15.00 charge each month for the optional Pizza Program.

Milk is always provided free even for students who bring their lunch from home.

Students are encouraged to get cold lunches. Lunches brought from home will

not be warmed.

MOBILE THERAPY CENTERS OF AMERICA

Mobile Therapy Centers of America will be providing a free developmental

screening to all students enrolled at Al-Huda Academy. Parents will be notified

of the date for the screenings and any follow-up if needed.

OPEN HOUSE/BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

Meet Your Teacher Day

Each year, we hold a meeting for parents, students, and teachers to meet each

other. The purpose of the evening is to meet and greet your teachers and

administrators, and to provide an opportunity for each of you to introduce

yourselves early in the year. It is not a time for individual conferences.

PTA

Al-Huda has a very active Parent-Teacher Alliance and we expect everyone to be

involved with the programs and events. PTA dues cost $10 per family which

supports enrichment programs for all children at our school and is the main source

of revenue. Every year we are able to develop programs that are academically

enriching for all students. We engage students in many fun events throughout the

year. PTA has ambitious goals to enrich the lives of the students at Al-Huda

Academy and to assist teachers. PTA has a variety of ways that you can volunteer

and be an active partner within our school.

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REGISTRATION

➢ Student’s seat can only be held upon payment of the Registration fee.

➢ Registration fee is non-refundable.

➢ Registration will be accepted for all returning students, who are in good

standing academically and behaviourally.

➢ In case of repeated behavioural problems, the parents will be asked to

withdraw their child from the school.

➢ All unpaid accounts from the previous year must be paid in full before a

student will be able to have their report card, in order to register for the next

year.

➢ All students must be 3 years old by September 30th of the year of attendance

for admission to Preschool.

➢ All students must be 5 years old by September 30th of the year of attendance

for admission to Kg.

➢ Health records for all new students, preschool, Kindergarten and sixth grade

must be submitted.

SCHOOL PHONE EXTENTIONS

Principal: #203

Dean of Student Services: # 202

Each classroom has a phone extension. Teachers will share these extensions with

you in the beginning of the school year. Teachers will not answer calls during

instruction time of the day. If it is urgent, please call the Office during school

hours or leave a message for the teacher at the extension provided to you.

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SERVICES AVAILABLE AT AL-HUDA ACADEMY

Before Care 7:00-8:30 a.m. (available

for a fee)

After Care 3:45-6:00 p.m. (available

for a fee)

Tutorial Program 8:00-8:30 a.m. (2days a

week)

Teachers

Arabic Instruction One on one tutoring

available

Arabic Teachers

Quran Instruction One on one tutoring

available

Islamic Teachers

Mobile Therapy Centers of

America

Screening Certified Therapists

Quick Schools Online communication

tool with the school,

teacher, and PTA. Links to

homework and events.

Online

Library/Art/Media Current and growing

Library/Media with

programs that allow

students to work on

research projects.

Hot lunch Halal Certified vendors

with variety each day of

the week.

STUDENT RECORDS

The school considers student records confidential and may not be viewed by

anyone except by school authorized personnel. Records will not be provided to

non-school personnel except with written request from the parents/guardian of

the student that is delivered to the school by mail or in person. Parents may

request a copy of all or some parts of the student’s record. The school requires a

notice of at least 48 hours to process such a request. Any part of the student record

will not be released to a non-custodial parent, except by a court order or the

written consent of the custodial parent. It is the responsibility of the parents to

keep the school informed and provide updated information such as, phone #’s,

addresses, health issues, or any changes in family circumstances. If a student

withdraws from Al-Huda, you must put in for a Withdrawal form or a Student

Transfer Request form from the Dean of Student Services.

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TUITION

➢ Tuition for the year, is based on a 10 month program, which can be paid in 10

instalments (August thru May) for your convenience.

➢ Tuition can be made in monthly payments by the 5th of each month.

➢ Al-Huda Academy will not be billing you. All payments are due before the

5th of the month.

➢ Check return policy: $25 will be assessed on every bounced check to cover

bank charges incurred by us.

➢ Receipts will be provided with every cash payment and a prior request

has to be made for a consolidated receipt requested for tax purposes.

➢ Tuition is based on enrolled attendance, not on actual attendance. A minimum

of one month’s fee is required even if your child attends the School for a

portion of the month. There are no credits for vacations or illness.

➢ Al-Huda reserves the right to remove students from class for failure to make

timely payment of monthly fees.

➢ If you decide to dis-enrol your child during the Academic year, a minimum

of one months’ notice is required, or else a minimum of one month’s tuition

will be charged. The yearly discount will not be valid once the child is dis-

enrolled during the academic year and the difference will be applied to the

remaining balance.

➢ If a student leaves for vacation, it is the parent’s responsibility to submit all

tuition. With no payment the student will be dis-enrolled and your child will

be required to register again.

VISITATION

Parents are not allowed to stay in the classrooms during the instructional day. If

visiting during school hours, for dropping off lunch, bags, homework, etc. you

must first go through the Office Administration. No one is permitted to go into

the classrooms during the instructional day. Please do not leave any items (treats,

packages, gifts, etc.) in the front office unless they have a label of TO and FROM

clearly marked on them.

WEAPONS

In order to promote a safe and secure environment for students, staff and visitors,

the possession of weapons by students is strictly prohibited. A student who has

a weapon or any object that can reasonably be considered or looks like a weapon

will be addressed by the teacher, the administration, or law enforcement

authorities.

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Such items as baseball bats, pipes, bottles, locks, sticks, pencils and pens may be

considered weapons if used or attempted to be used to cause bodily harm.

Students are urged to check clothing, backpacks and pockets to be sure that

weapons are not present before coming to school or to any school-related

activity. Possession of these types of weapons, even briefly and without intent to

use, is a violation.

Parents will be responsible for any damages caused by a student’s disorderly

conduct.

Thank you for taking the time to read and implement our school policies.

May Allah (swt) guide parents and teachers and our future generations to

be steadfast in their Imaan.

AMEEN!