BUCKINGHAM CHARTER MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL
188 Bella Vista Road
Vacaville, CA  95687
Phone (707) 453-7300 Fax (707) 453-7303

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 9/1/03

 

To Our Parent and Students….

Welcome to Elise P. Buckingham Charter Magnet High School, California’s 56^th Charter School.  Buckingham Charter Magnet High School is a dependent charter school sponsored by the Vacaville Unified School District.  By attending Buckingham, you and your student have chosen to participate in a unique and innovative learning option.

Buckingham’s distinctive learning process allows students, parents/guardians, and the school to work collaboratively to meet rigorous expectations and educational needs of individual students.  Buckingham’s educational philosophy expects students to take personal ownership of their education, allows the school to evaluate student achievement by using a variety of measurement techniques and to offer educational opportunities that best meet the student’s learning goals and objectives.

Educational choice is provided through three unique instructional strands: college preparatory courses, Informational Technology (IT) and Visual/Media Arts (VMA).  These instructional strands provide students with industry standard tools and state-of-the-art facilities that focus on learning outcomes that feature block scheduling, a small safe school environment, platforms to showcase student work, service learning, and a commitment to excellence that integrates strong home to school communication.

Buckingham students customize their educational program by selecting courses from these strands to best meet their educational needs and learning styles.  Additionally, it provides students the opportunity to focus on elective courses that provide vocational or post secondary educational options.  Courses in all strands are aligned with state standards and district adopted course frameworks.

Buckingham’s mission is to provide a rigorous educational program based on effective and innovative teaching practices.  Our goal is to encourage all students to realize their potential and challenge them to become actively engaged in their education, demonstrating valued skills that contribute positively to society.

Have a great year!

 Bob Hampton and the BCMHS Administrative Team

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Mission Statement

Through performance-based educational choices, Buckingham Charter Magnet High School is committed to developing life long, independent learners who value themselves, who contribute to their community; and who are equipped to succeed in a changing world.

School Overview

Elise P. Buckingham Charter Magnet High School (BCMHS), the 19^th school in Vacaville Unified School District was originally chartered in 1994.  As a public school, BCMHS charges no tuition for attendance and is nonsectarian in its programs, admission policies, employment practices, and all other operations, and does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, creed, national origin, gender, or disability.  Buckingham is a challenging educational option for parents and students who desire:
 

• A small high school environment
• Technology-integrated instruction
• A college preparatory curriculum
• Career education emphasizing visual and media arts and information technology.

Buckingham’s curriculum and instruction model combines current technology and traditional textbooks with appropriate applied experience, allowing students to exhibit mastery of content area subject matter. Learning bridges the gap between knowledge and application through finished products that prepare students to further their formal education or apply these skills in the workplace.

The Buckingham learning community provides a wide-range of performance-based educational possibilities for all students.  Academic acceleration, innovative learning opportunities, performance-based education, faculty advisors, and partnerships with businesses and post secondary institutions enable BCMHS students to display initiative and to take responsibility for their own education.  Supported by a staff that exposes them to life long learning strategies, students have the opportunity to satisfy the University of California’s “a-g” requirements through an educational program aligned with the Content Standards for California Public Schools.  BCHS students also can become industry-certified in computer repair, networking, sound engineering and media production.  Buckingham parents are empowered to support the learning environment and collaborate with other parents and students as they learn and prepare for the 21st century together.

In order to better fulfill its mission, BCMHS staff, faculty, parents, and students have adopted specific Expected School-wide Learning Results (ESLRs).  The ESLRs are incorporated in the charter and also form the basis of the school’s accreditation report by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).  BCHS is currently preparing an accreditation self-study in anticipation of a WASC site visit in spring 2005.

BCMHS Expected School-wide Learning Results

• Buckingham students will demonstrate proficiency in the following content areas: English-Language Arts, Mathematics, History-Social Science, and Science.

• Buckingham students will demonstrate proficiency in one or more of the following content areas: Career Preparation, Visual & Media Arts, and Foreign Language.

• Buckingham students will demonstrate proficiency with basic computer skills including, but not limited to, electronic mail, word processing, electronic publishing, spreadsheets, and information literacy skills.

• Buckingham students will be responsible citizens by attending school daily, by being prepared to work individually and collaboratively, by respecting themselves and others, and by contributing to their community.

Buckingham students are required to meet content area performance standards, demonstrating knowledge and skills leading to the achievement of BCMHS Expected School-wide Learning Results.  Buckingham Charter High Magnet School students will exhibit ESLR achievement in the following areas upon graduation: core academic standards, life-long learning skills, and social/interpersonal skills.

Core Academic Standards

• English/Language Arts: Working at the appropriate grade-level proficiency, students will understand and demonstrate strong reading, writing, listening, speaking and presentation skills through the integration of technology and digital arts. They will comprehend and critically interpret informational and literary text, write compositions according to major text structures and genres, and deliver and analyze oral and media presentations. Using a variety of research strategies, students will organize information and display information literacy proficiency.

• History/Social Science: Working at the appropriate grade level proficiency, students will understand and apply the basic concepts of Modern World History, 20th Century U.S. History, American Government and Economics through the integration of technology and digital arts. In addition, students will develop and demonstrate historical and social science analysis through reasoning, reflection, and research.

• Mathematics: Working at the appropriate grade level proficiency, students will understand and apply mathematical processes and concepts, including number sense, measurement and geometry, mathematical reasoning, algebra and functions, statistics, data analysis and probability and will demonstrate logical reasoning through the integration of technology and digital arts.

• Science: Working at the appropriate grade level proficiency, students will utilize scientific research and inquiry methods to understand and demonstrate the major concepts underlying the earth, life, and physical sciences through the integration of technology and digital arts.

Life Long Learning Skills

• Study Skills and Work Habits: Students will develop skills and habits that will enable them to plan, initiate and complete a project, and then reflect on and evaluate their own learning.

• College and Career Preparation: Students will prepare resumes, perform career/college searches, complete financial aid forms, personal interest surveys, and have the opportunity for internships in fields of interest.

Social/Interpersonal Skills

• Citizenship and Leadership Skills: Students will plan and implement a project in service to the school and/or the greater community.

• Tolerance and Inclusiveness: Students will engage in responsible, positive, and compassionate peer relationships by showing consideration for individual and cultural differences.

• Mature Work Ethic: Students will demonstrate work individually and in cooperative groups.

Specific grade level skills and standards align with the Content Standards for California Public Schools.  Buckingham Charter High School engages in on-going review of student outcomes to reflect the school’s mission and changes in state standards.  BCMHS continues to develop relevant life-long learning strategies which students can apply in contemporary society.

VUSD’s Board of Trustees approves all course frameworks and graduation requirements.  Students successfully completing Buckingham’s designated course of study receive a diploma from VUSD’s Elise P. Buckingham Charter High School. Buckingham Charter High School students graduating prior to 2007 are required to satisfy the current graduation requirements.

 

Students at Buckingham Charter High School are required to satisfy the following minimum graduation requirements beginning with the graduating class of 2007:

Expectations

All members of the Elise P. Buckingham Charter Magnet High School learning community—students, parents, and staff—work together to achieve the school’s ESLRs.  As members of a community, each group has responsibilities to fulfill expectations of the other groups in the community.

Student Expectations

Each student at BCMHS is expected to meet the following established pupil benchmarks to maintain satisfactory academic, attendance, and behavioral standing:

• Attend school daily.

• Maintain 100% completion rate and 70% competency level on all class assignments, homework and authentic assessments.

• Attend all scheduled meetings with assigned faculty advisor and school counselor.

• Participate in the STAR, CAHSEE, district testing, pre and post testing, or other testing programs designated by Buckingham Charter Magnet High School or Vacaville Unified School District.

• Adhere to all academic, attendance and behavior policies of Buckingham Charter High School and Vacaville Unified School District.

• Take responsibility for your own educational growth and development.

• Reflect a positive attitude towards learning.

• Communicate proactively with your classroom instructors, faculty advisor, counselor and administrator.

• Show respect for all charter school students, parents and staff.

• Contribute and interact in a positive manner within your community to your community.

Parent/Guardian Expectations

Research shows that one of the most influential factors in student success is the involvement by parents/guardians in the student’s educational program. Parents/guardians of BCMHS students are expected to:

• Insist on daily, punctual school attendance of your student.

• Monitor the daily and weekly completion of the student's work.

• Encourage, support, and be actively involved in your student's learning program.

• Provide transportation to and from school all activities, including daily classes.

• Support the discipline codes and behavior guidelines of Buckingham Charter Magnet High School and Vacaville Unified School District.

• Complete all applicable school paperwork and meet stated deadlines.

• Provide or facilitate instructional assistance for the student.

• Participate regularly and actively in parent meetings, activities and workshops.

• Proactively ask questions or seek assistance from BCMHS staff.

• Stay informed by reading the BCMHS handbook, school newsletter and other school communications, and by visiting the BCMHS web site(s) regularly.

• Show respect for all charter school students, parents and staff.

Staff

Charter school staff recognizes that they serve a diverse population of students who have varying learning styles and abilities.  The education of our students will be most productive when instructors:

• Create and maintain effective environments for student learning.

• Understand and organize subject matter for student learning.

• Communicate with and inform parents/guardians of student progress regularly.

• Plan instruction and design learning experiences for all students.

• Engage and support all students in learning.

• Systematically evaluate student achievement/performance with a variety of assessment tools.

• Continue to develop as professional educators.

• Correctly maintain all appropriate paperwork and meet all deadlines.

• Provide tutorial assistance/instruction when appropriate.

• Show respect for all charter school students, parents and staff.

Enrollment Procedures

Buckingham Charter Magnet High School is an alternative to traditional high school education and is open to all students who wish to attend. BCMHS educational strategies are not necessarily appropriate for all students. To be successful, students should:

• Be motivated to achieve performance-based learning standards and benchmarks

• Be willing to integrate technology into their assignments

• Possess self-discipline

• Be able to work individually and collaboratively

• Be willing to take personal responsibility for their education

To maintain quality instruction and provide sufficient tools for student success, Elise P. Buckingham Charter Magnet High School has limited enrollment.  If Buckingham’s enrollment is at capacity, a waiting list will be created.  A lottery process will select students with priority given to Vacaville residents.

Returning Students

1.       Complete and return a Master Agreement, Registration Packet and Course Selection Sheet by stated deadlines.

2.       Course Selection Sheet: Space in classes is limited and enrollment is on a first–come–first–served basis, with priority is given to upper class students. Your assigned advisor will give tentative approval on your course selections.

 

New Students

1.       Read the BCMHS Handbook thoroughly with your Parent/Guardian.

2.       Submit a fully completed Master Agreement form and Registration Packet.

3.       Submit a current copy of immunization records and student transcripts if applicable.

4.       Attend orientation if required with your Parent/Guardian.

Note: Parent/Guardian and Student must attend orientation.  Students will not be enrolled in Buckingham if a parent/guardian or student is not present.  Official enrollment begins after you have fully completed the orientation process.  Because of the importance of the information presented, late arrivals will not be able to attend orientation.  Late arrivals will be rescheduled for another day and time, providing there is still space available.

5.       Complete computer-adaptive pre-assessment.

6.       Enrollment in classes may be limited to the first three weeks of each semester unless a student transfers with a grade of C or better in the same course and has instructor approval.

7.       Class availability is not guaranteed.  Course offerings will be based on the number of students enrolled per semester.  Students signed up for classes that have been canceled will be provided alternative course offerings that will fulfill their graduation requirements.

Students referred to BCHS by the Vacaville Unified School District Student Attendance Review Board, VUSD Student Services, Probation Department, Solano County Office of Education alternative schools, or any other agency that refers an expelled student; or students who have or are experiencing discipline, attendance and/or academic problems will be placed on a Probationary Enrollment Addendum to the Master Agreement upon enrollment.

Student Non-Compliance and Dismissal Procedure

Satisfactory attendance, behavior and academic standing is essential for continued enrollment in Elise P. Buckingham Charter High School.  Attendance, behavioral and academic expectations and policies are outlined in the BCMHS Handbook and teacher classroom policies are distributed to parent/students at the beginning of every school year.  Every student receives a school handbook each year upon enrollment, and it is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian to review and understand the policies presented herein.  The administrator, counselor or an educational supervisor is available to provide additional clarification of the handbook upon request by the parent/guardian and/or student.  Assigned faculty advisors regularly monitor individual student attendance, behavior, and academic standing.  A student’s failure to maintain compliance with attendance, academic and/or behavioral expectations will result in the implementation of the following intervention strategies.

• The student’s faculty advisor creates an Action Plan that documents concerns and indicates methods of resolution to address the student’s needs. Strategies may include, but are not limited to increased interaction with BCMHS staff, time lines for assignments, modification of materials and curriculum, and revocation or temporary suspension of a work permit.
   

• If the Action Plan does not result in the student regaining and maintaining satisfactory standing, a First Warning Letter of Unsatisfactory Standing is sent to the parent/guardian listing concerns and strongly recommending that they contact the faculty advisor to schedule a conference.
   

• If the non-compliant status continues or recurs, a Second Warning Letter of Unsatisfactory Standing is sent to parents requesting that they immediately contact administration to schedule a conference.
   

• Continued or recurring non-compliance will result in an administrative panel review. The panel may modify or terminate the student’s placement at BCMHS.  A decision to terminate the student’s placement will result in a Notice of Dismissal, reminding the parent/guardian of California’s compulsory attendance laws, and will include a date by which the student is to enroll in a comprehensive school program.  Students residing in Vacaville Unified School District who fail to enroll in their school of residence or other district school after dismissal from BCMHS will be referred to the Vacaville Unified School District’s School Attendance Review Board by BCMHS.

Students committing flagrant or recurrent violations of the discipline codes and behavioral guidelines may be subject to immediate referral to Buckingham administration.  Administration may further refer the student to the BCMHS administrative review panel.  Panel decisions may include, but are not limited to, program modifications, intervention strategies, placement on a Probationary Enrollment Addendum, or immediate termination from the program.

All students who receive a Notice of Dismissal must follow the exit criteria outlined in the School Handbook.  A Notice of Dismissal makes the student ineligible to attend BCMHS for the remainder of that semester plus one full academic year.

Students whose enrollment in Buckingham Charter Magnet High School is based on a Probationary Enrollment Addendum for attendance, behavioral, or academic reasons may have their enrollment terminated by BCMHS administration if they:

• Fail to maintain compliance with the terms of the addendum on which their enrollment is based.

• Commit other violations of the BCMHS or VUSD attendance, behavioral or academic expectations that would normally result in the implementation of non-compliance procedures.

All dismissed students from Buckingham Charter Magnet High School have the right to petition the school for re-admittance.  To petition of the Notice of Dismissal the petitioner (a parent/guardian or student over 18) must submit a signed and dated letter, petitioning the dismissal.  The BCMHS administrator must receive the letter within 10 business days of the dismissal date.  Supporting documents may include:

• An explanation indicating special circumstances, which, in the opinion of the petitioner warrant a suspension of the dismissal.
   

• Support documentation (i.e., input from instructors, parents, student, and/or other appropriate parties).
   

• If appropriate, presentation of a plan that leads to student success in the program.
   

• And/or a request for an oral presentation to the review panel.

Upon receipt of letter, BCMHS will conduct a panel review hearing within 10 business days of receipt of the petition.  Petitioner will be notified of the review panel’s decision by phone within three working days of the hearing, and by a written confirmation, which will be mailed.  All panel decisions are final.

Exit Procedure

State law requires that a student be enrolled in school until the age of 18, or have received a high school diploma, or earned a high school equivalency certificate.  Upon exiting Buckingham Charter High School, students under 18 must enroll in a public or private school.  Parents choosing to school a student at home must file a Private School Affidavit with the California Department of Education (http://www.cde.ca.gov/privateschools) or CDE Policy and Program Coordinator, 1430 N. Street, Suite 4309, Sacramento, CA  95819) and provide the Buckingham Charter Magnet High School registrar with a copy of that document prior to officially exiting.

If it becomes necessary to exit, either voluntarily or as the result of a dismissal, do not enroll in another school until the exit procedure is completed.

1. Finalize all paperwork with instructor to verify withdrawal credits.  For seniors completing graduation requirements, this includes a graduation check-off requiring several signatures.

2. Notify the charter school office of your exit.  A parent/guardian must sign the Master Agreement for students under 18.  If the student is 18, he/she may sign the Master Agreement.

3. All textbooks must be returned to the faculty advisor or course instructors at the time of exit.  Any damaged or outstanding books will be billed accordingly.  Until the debt is cleared, all report cards, transcripts and diplomas will be withheld.  Your new school of enrollment will be notified of any debt.

4. Students who exit Buckingham Charter Magnet High School before the expiration of the Master Agreement may not re-enroll in Buckingham Charter Magnet High School for the remainder of the current semester plus one full additional school year.

School Policies

Every student who gives evidence of a sincere desire to remain in school, to be diligent in his/her studies, and to profit by the educational facilities provided will be given every opportunity to do so.  Students will be assisted in every way possible to achieve scholastic success to the limit of his/her individual ability.

Academic Policies

Academic Compliance

Buckingham Charter Magnet High School is a performance-based educational option.  Instructional credit is based on the completion and quality of assigned work.  Passing grades indicate that the student is in compliance with the terms of the Master Agreement, which states that each student is required to:

• Complete 100% of all assigned work (daily work, authentic assessments, and comprehensive tests) that is to be submitted within the deadlines established by each instructor.

Failure to maintain these requirements will lead to dismissal from the school.  Parents/guardians and students share responsibility for submitting work by the stated deadlines.  Students may not receive credit for late assignments, subject to grading policies of individual instructors.

Assessment

By utilizing a variety of assessment tools, a more complete picture of a student's ability level and academic growth is gained.  Buckingham Charter Magnet High School’s assessment system combines daily work, authentic assessments, comprehensive tests, and portfolios.  Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by performing course-related tasks that are valued in the workplace, in higher education, and throughout society.

Daily Work

Daily work assignments are designed to demonstrate mastery of the Content Standards for California Public Schools, and include all in-class work, class participation, and homework.

Comprehensive Testing

Buckingham Charter Magnet High School students participate in regular comprehensive testing to demonstrate mastery of material and to assist instructors and parents in identifying areas that need further instruction.  Comprehensive tests are generally created by the course instructor, and may consist of essay, short answer, multiple choice, and/or other types of questions.

Authentic Assessments

Authentic Assessments are required from all students in all classes, as scheduled by the course syllabus.  An authentic assessment is a product, created by a student, which displays knowledge of the subject that demonstrates the competencies required by the course of study.  Authentic Assessments may include written or oral presentations, models, web sites, performances, demonstrations, and presentation of portfolios.  Semester projects and senior exhibitions are forms of authentic assessment.  An objective or subjective test is not considered an authentic assessment.

Portfolios

Designed to demonstrate growth, a portfolio is a collection of the student's work and other items that provide a tangible picture of his/her achievement.  Portfolios enable students to select work samples in a wide variety of formats, create a natural medium for discussions of the student’s long-term goals and objectives, and foster on-going reflection and evaluation of performance levels.

All BCMHS graduating seniors of are required to submit a graduation portfolio reflecting their academic accomplishments and demonstrating fulfillment of Buckingham’s ESLRs.  The graduation portfolio is reviewed by the student’s faculty advisor and the counseling department to fulfill the graduation requirement.

Extra-Curricular Participation

While enrolled at Buckingham Charter Magnet High School, students must maintain a 2.0 grade point average and complete and pass at least five classes of five units each per semester to be eligible for participation in extra-curricular activities at BCMHS or other partnership schools.  Students and parents must agree to a student-participation contract outlining the expectations and qualifications for each activity with which the student participates.  Contracts may be revoked by any participating school due to the student’s failure to adhere to the criteria reflected within the contract.  All revocations are final.

Grades

Simply turning in all work does not guarantee a student a particular desired grade.  Quality of work determines the grade for an assignment and for the entire course.  Grading policies and classroom management policies are distributed to students during the first week of all classes.  Students enrolling after the first class meeting may be required to complete all work missed.

 

Placement and Transfer Policies

Students’ grade levels will not be re-classified mid year.  They will remain at the grade level assigned at the beginning of the school year whether accelerated or not.  Re-classification will take place at the beginning of each school year.     See course catalog for grade-level credit criteria.

• A student who becomes a graduating senior will be re-classified mid-year.

Students who enroll in Buckingham Charter Magnet High School will receive credit based on the transcript from their previous school.

A student entering with a transfer grade of D in any course must raise the grade to 70% (a grade of C) by the end of the semester to receive credit for that course.  For averaging purposes, a D transfer grade will be 65% unless official documentation is provided.

Program Modifications

The program of an individual student may be modified if approved by either the principal or the counselor.  Common modifications include academic acceleration, remediation, and others as deemed individually appropriate.
 

Academic Acceleration

Students who wish to earn their diploma within four years must pass at least 30 units per semester.  A student is classified as an accelerated student if he/she intends to earn more than 35 units per semester.  Students wishing to accelerate must:

• Obtain written approval from parent/guardian.

• Receive appropriate counseling, observation, and grade level assessment.

• Receive faculty advisor recommendation.

• Submit “Intent to Accelerate Form” by dates indicated in the school calendar and posted in the school newsletter.

• Conference with and receive approval from BCMHS administrator or designee.

• Complete all course assignments, meeting stated expectations at a 70% competency (grade of C).

These criteria apply only to those students who plan to obtain a diploma from Buckingham Charter Magnet High School.  Accelerated work may not be accepted if the student elects to return to a comprehensive high school.

Special Education

Student’s who are receiving Special Education services must have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting prior to enrollment into Buckingham.  The Student Study Team must recommend placement prior to enrollment.  If placement is appropriate, services will be provided in accordance with the students IEP.

Remediation

Students who wish to have their academic program modified or be assessed, must meet with the BCMHS counselor/or designee to determine appropriateness of such placement.

Special Programs

BCMHS students are encouraged to take advantage of all educational options to complete their high school graduation requirements.  Students may enroll with the Regional Occupation Program (ROP), Solano Community College, or any other qualifying institution of higher education, either traditional, correspondence, or on-line.  To qualify, a school must generally be an accredited school that provides transcripts for course work taken.  For questions about specific schools or programs, make an appointment with the counselor.  Individual courses must be approved by the counselor prior to signing up.

• High school credit is only given to students for coursework done after the beginning of the student’s 9^th grade year.

• Enrollment forms for ROP, Adult Education, and Solano Community College Special Admissions must be approved and signed by the counselor or designee prior to enrollment in the program or school.  Allow one working day for approval.

• The student or parent/guardian are responsible to see that the BCMHS registrar receives an official transcript from ROP, Solano Community College, or any other special program for which Buckingham Charter High School grants high school credit.

• Equivalent high school credit is given by the BCMHS Registrar, under the direction of the counselor.

• Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in each course attempted through the Special Admissions Program at Solano College (or any other special program) for which they wish to receive credit at Buckingham Charter High School.

Standardized Testing

The California State Testing and Reporting program is part of the assessment program at Buckingham Charter High School, and is required of all charter schools under state law.  Failure to participate fully in the California Standardized Testing and Reporting Program, CAHSEE, and district tests may result in dismissal from the school.

Data from sources such as student grades, teacher recommendation and/or parent input, the STAR, and the CAHSEE will be used to identify underachieving students who may require enrollment in intervention programs for the purpose of maintaining school expectations and meeting grade level Content Standards for California Public Schools.

Buckingham Charter Magnet High School students will be required to participate in all applicable mandated state assessments, including but not limited to:

STAR Program (CAT/6 & California Standards Tests)

California Charter School legislation (SB 1448) requires charter schools to participate in the statewide pupil assessment program (STAR).  All 9^th - 11^th grade students enrolled in Buckingham Charter High School participate in the STAR program, as do all other public school students in California.  This test is a baseline assessment of student academic achievement in reading, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.  Failure to participate fully in the STAR program, as explained in the Letter of Commitment that is sent prior to the test, will result in the dismissal of your student from BCHS for the following school year.

California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE):

Beginning 2004, all students must pass the California High School Exit Exam to receive a high school diploma.  The CAHSEE tests students in English/Language Arts (multiple choice and writing samples) and Math (multiple choice).

Physical Fitness Testing (PFT)

Physical fitness testing is required of all ninth grade students enrolled in California Public Schools.

California English Language Development Test (CELDT)

The Golden State Exam

The GSE program recognizes students who achieve high honors, honors, and recognition levels of achievement in key academic subjects.  Students who meet or surpass these levels are recognized as Golden State Scholars and receive academic excellence awards from the state.  High honors and honors designees receive a gold insignia on their diplomas.  Notice of success on the GSE becomes part of a student’s permanent transcript, signifying high achievement to colleges, universities, and employers.

Advance Career Education (ACE)

The ACE program is designed to recognize students who demonstrate outstanding achievement on rigorous examinations in selected career/technical areas.  ACE examinations assess students’ knowledge within career-technical areas and their application of that knowledge.  Students who achieve high honors, honors, and recognition on an ACE examination will receive an Award of Excellence from the state and have their achievement recorded on their high school transcripts. Students who achieve the high honors or honors designations also receive an ACE insignia on their diplomas.

Buckingham Charter Magnet High School students will be required to participate in all applicable mandated school and district assessments, including but not limited to:
 

High School Proficiency Tests

Students who began high school in 1999 or before are required to pass the VUSD proficiency exams in reading, writing, and mathematics.  The proficiency tests measure only the basic or functional level of each skill and do not reflect the full range of our school goals or course requirements.  During their graduating year, students have three (3) opportunities to take each proficiency test.  If the student chooses not to take the test, it still counts as one of the three opportunities.  Students have one (1) opportunity to test in each previous year.

Information Technology Proficiency Exam

Required of all students who do not satisfy the Information technology graduation requirement by taking the identified coursework.

Placement Tests

• All new students must take the pre-test given at enrollment.  Faculty advisors may schedule an appointment for returning students to pre-test at any time during the 1st quarter.
   

• All students are required to take a yearly post-test.  Faculty advisors may schedule an appointment for returning students at any time during the 4th quarter.
   

• Upon parent/guardian request, optional testing to measure pupil growth, provide vocational direction, or identify special needs is available.

Buckingham Charter Magnet High School students will also have the opportunity to participate in additional assessments, including but not limited to:
 

The PSAT/ NMSQT

This test gives a student firsthand practice for the SAT, measures critical reading, math problem solving, and writing skills, and gives a student a chance to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship program.  Sophomores and juniors may take the test, but the test is normed only to juniors and only scores from a student’s junior year are used to determine scholarship eligibility.

The ASVAB

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery measures aptitudes related to success in different jobs.  Students who complete the test are also given access to the ASVAB Career Exploration Program to assist in understanding their scores.  Test takers do not have to be interested in a military career.  Open to 10^th – 12^th graders.

The ACT Assessment

The ACT Assessment is a national college admission examination in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science Reasoning.  The ACT offers a comprehensive way for high school students to demonstrate that they can become successful college students.  Most U.S. colleges and universities accept ACT results.

The SAT

Many colleges require the SAT I for admission. These are one-hour, primarily multiple-choice tests in specific subject areas.  They measure knowledge or skills in a particular subject and ability to apply that knowledge.  By taking SAT II: Subject Tests, in as many subjects as possible, charter school students can demonstrate their academic strengths to four- year colleges.

Advanced Placement Exams

Advanced Placement Courses allow students the chance to try college-level work in high school, and to gain valuable skills and study habits for college.  If you receive a qualifying grade on the AP Exam, colleges may give college credit or advanced placement.  AP Exams are given to students upon completion of their course work.

Attendance Policies

All students must maintain daily attendance that aligns with the Board-adopted BCMHS calendar, and which satisfies the minimum required attendance time.  Buckingham students are expected to maintain an attendance rate of 97% to remain in good standing.  A student with more than two class periods per semester of unexcused absences may receive an Action Plan or appropriate subsequent non-compliance letter.

Illness or medical emergencies validated by a note from a parent/guardian or physician are excused absences for students who attend Buckingham Charter Magnet High School.  Whole or day period absences not cleared within 72 hours (3 days) will be recorded as truancies or unexcused absences and cannot be cleared after that time.  It is the parent/guardian or student’s responsibility to clear all absences.  Upon returning to school after an absence, a note from a parent/guardian or doctor must be presented to the attendance clerk prior to the student returning to class.  Students returning from unexcused absences may or may not be allowed to make up missed work based on teacher classroom policies.

Students who have excused absences (as pursuant to Education Code 46010, 48290) are entitled to the same number of days that they have been absent, plus one additional day, to make up missed work.  Any work assigned prior to an absence is due upon the student’s return.  Students must take the initiative to contact their teacher to receive missed assignments.  It is not the responsibility of the teacher to initiate contact with students in distributing missed assignments.

Students may be excused from class for medical appointments, deaths in family and other reasons deemed valid by administration.  Requests to be excused from class must be in writing, signed by a parent/guardian, and presented to the attendance clerk no later than the morning of the day for which the excuse is requested, preferably the day before.  Students are responsible for arranging to make up any missed work with each instructor.  No student will be allowed to leave the campus on the basis of a telephone call.  Should an emergency arise, you must come into the office at 194 Buckingham to request your student.

Students may leave the BCMHS campus and return to attend later classes at BCMHS provided that:

• The student has his/her own or parent provided transportation and insurance.
• The student has a current off-campus form on file with the attendance clerk.
• The student checks in and out with the attendance clerk.
• If the student is attending a class at SCC, no alternative SCC class is available that does not require the student to leave and return to BCMHS.

Behavioral Policies

Buckingham Charter Magnet High School community promotes a safe, positive, alcohol, tobacco and drug-free learning environment where all students are empowered to become decision-makers, life-long learners and responsible productive citizens.  Citizenship in a democracy requires respect for the rights of others.  Student conduct shall reflect consideration for the rights and privileges of others and cooperation with all members of the school community is expected.

General Student Conduct

California law holds students responsible to the school for their behavior and attendance from the time they leave home in the morning for classes until they arrive home.  We expect our students to be goodwill ambassadors to the community. Common sense and good citizenship are the standards of conduct. In addition to these expectations:

1. Be on time and leave school site in an orderly manner.

2. Be courteous and respectful to all students and school personnel.

3. Electronic devices such as radios and CD players are not permitted on campus.  Students’ cell phone’s, pagers, etc. that are in use by the student in class/hallways, will be confiscated and turned into administration (use outside is permitted).  Parents/guardians must pick the confiscated items up at the BCMHS office.  The second occurrence in a school year will require a parent-administrative conference.  A third confiscation in a school year will jeopardize a student’s placement in BCMHS.

4. Possession or use of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs on campus or at a school-sponsored activity is strictly prohibited.

5. Articles that might be dangerous to the welfare of students are not permitted.  These include, but are not limited to, matches, lighters, firecrackers, weapons (even toy ones), knives, etc.

6. NO eating and drinking in building.

ADMINISTRATOR/DESIGNEE HAVE DISCRETION IN MAKING JUDGMENTS RELATED TO THE APPROPRIATENESS OF DRESS.

Girls:

• No cleavage, midriff, bare chest, or buttocks may be showing 

• Undergarments must be covered

• No immodest blouses with string tops that do not cover bra straps

• Shorts or skirts must be no shorter than a clenched fist length when the student is standing with arms straight down the sides

Boys:

• No muscle shirts

• No shorts or pants with rips, holes, or tears in revealing areas

• No Low-slung baggy pants that reveal underwear 

• No bandanas, hankies, or do-rags

• No wallet chains or spike jewelry

All Students:

• No clothing or jewelry that displays or promotes drugs, weapons, or is demeaning to one sex or the other

• Logos worn by students should be in good taste and may not display profanity, racism, or vulgarity

• Teachers may require students to remove hats in the classroom

• Revealing clothing (e.g. “see through, strapless, and backless clothing, or gaping sleeveless) may not be worn

• Clothing, jewelry, and personal items must be free of any pictures or writings related to pornography, profanity, violence, or illegal behavior, or which are demeaning to any race, gender, or creed

• Any apparel, jewelry, or accessory that is related to gangs is forbidden. Such items include, but are not limited to wave caps, hairnets, bandannas, gang numbers, initials, (e.g. XIV, XIII, N, SUR, ECT.), colored rags or handkerchiefs hanging outside of pockets or belts, etc.

• No pajamas

• Students must wear shoes or sandals

Bizarre attire or grooming distracts from the educational atmosphere and is therefore not permitted.

Board Policy No. 5470 states:  “The Board of Education desires to keep Vacaville Unified School District schools, students and employees free from the threats of harmful influence of any groups or gangs which advocate drug use, violence or other disruptive behavior.  The Board therefore prohibits the presence of any apparel, jewelry, accessory, notebook or manner of grooming which, by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark or any other attribute, denotes membership in such a group as above described or any attempt to create territorial control at any District facility.”

Also, “…Any student wearing or carrying gang paraphernalia or making gestures that symbolize gang membership shall be referred to the Principal or designee.”  (Board Policy No. 5470AR)
 

Harassment
 

Unlawful harassment can cause embarrassment, feelings of powerlessness, loss of self-confidence, reduced ability to perform schoolwork, and increased absenteeism or tardiness. Buckingham Charter High School is committed to providing an educational environment free of unlawful harassment. A policy prohibiting sexual harassment, unlawful discrimination and/or harassment because of race, color, ethnic group, ancestry, national origin, physical or mental condition, medical condition, marital status, pregnancy, age, veteran status and actual or perceived gender or sexual orientation, religion or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance or regulation will be strictly enforced.

Any student or district employee who engages in unlawful discrimination or harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action.  Students, parents or staff should immediately report incidences of unlawful harassment to the Principal or designee. (Board Policy No. 5916.5)

School Property

1. Respect must be shown for all school property.  California law permits the school district to hold the parents liable for damages up to $5,000.

2. Textbooks are loaned to students for the time that they are enrolled.  Students are responsible for taking care of the textbooks and returning them in good condition.

Health and Safety Policies

Campus Visitation
 

No unauthorized persons (including parents, relatives, visitors) are allowed in Buckingham Charter Magnet High School.  If you must enter the building, you must obtain a visitor’s pass from the main school office (188 Bella Vista Road, Ste. B) prior to entry.

Emergency Drills

Regular emergency drills are conducted at BCMHS following procedures outlined in the VUSD Board Policies and Administrative Regulations. These include, but are not limited to fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills. All students are to participate in the drills in an appropriate manner.

Loitering on School Grounds

Please maintain prompt delivery and pick-up of your student(s).  Support staff cannot remain after hours to supervise their safety

Medications Required During School Hours:

 

School personnel will cooperate with parents regarding medication to be taken during school hours and which is required for the student’s health  School policy and California Education Code 49432 permits medication to be administered at school by authorized personnel providing:

• Parents or guardian must personally transport medication to school.

• A signed Physician’s Order For Administration of Medication By School Personnel must accompany any medication. (This includes over the counter medications.)

• All medication must be in the original container and correctly prescribed for the indicated student only.

• All medication must be kept in a locked area in the school office.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Elise P. Buckingham Charter Magnet High School does not:

• Deny the benefits of school programs, services and activities to qualified individuals with a disability on the basis of that disability

• Discriminate on the basis of disability in access to or provision of programs, services, activities of the school, or application for the employment or employment to qualified individuals with disabilities.

• Provide separate, unequal or different programs, services or activities, unless the separate or different programs are necessary to ensure that the benefits and services are equally effective.

In accordance with Section 35.106 of the Americans with Disabilities Act, all students, parents participants applicants and interested individuals are advised and noticed that the ADA Coordinator for this school is:

Leticia Allen, Deputy Superintendent, VUSD
751 School Street
Vacaville, California 95687
(707) 453-6121

Transportation and Parking

Vehicles on campus are a privilege not a right.  Students must maintain good standing academically and behaviorally to maintain this privilege.    Also, traffic laws and regulations will be strictly enforced.  All students who have a vehicle on campus must display a signed BCMHS permit on the front right passenger window of the vehicle to be able to park in the complex.  All vehicles and are subject to search and seizure laws as posted and permitted under education codes, state and local laws and regulations.
Obey all crosswalks and traffic signs.

Students leaving BCMHS for SCC classes during the BCMHS school day and returning for later classes must have a current Off-campus permission form on file with the attendance clerk.

Traffic Flow

Passengers must be loaded or unloaded in the auto lanes directly in front of the buildings.  Please observe the traffic pattern designated for each area.