What is a charter school?
A charter school is a tuition-free, nonsectarian public school established by contract with a District Governing Board, the State Board of Education or the State Board for Charter Schools.

The charter is a contract detailing a governing body responsible for the school’s policies and operational decisions, the method of school governance, the responsibilities of the school’s sponsor, and the school’s personnel policies and qualifications. The term of charter school contracts in Arizona is 15 years, though charters are reviewed by the sponsoring board every five years and monitored regularly.

While Arizona charter schools participate in the state’s and nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests and AIMS, they set their own rules when it comes to the teaching methods used to meet their educational goals. Charter schools design a method to measure pupil progress, complete annual report cards for the Department of Education (which are available on the Arizona Department of Education’s website) and submit an annual report to their sponsoring board. All charter schools must comply with all state, local and federal laws regarding health, safety and civil rights.

Charter schools are state-funded and receive money based on student attendance. Charter schools may also solicit and receive contributions.

For more on Arizona charter schools, visit the Arizona Department of Education.

What is the curriculum at La Paloma Academy?
La Paloma Academy follows Arizona State standards while simultaneously implementing the Character Counts! character education program, based on a basic set of core values called the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. In addition, the importance of community service is emphasized at every grade level.

What is the cost of tuition?
La Paloma Academy is a tuition-free school.

If there is no tuition, how are charter schools funded?
As public schools, charters are not allowed to charge tuition, and they are funded according to enrollment. In most states, charters do not receive capital funds for facilities. They are entitled to federal categorical funding for which their students are eligible, such as Title I and Special Education monies. Federal legislation provides grants to help charters with start-up costs.

What are La Paloma Academy’s school hours?
Schools hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday through Friday, with the exception of early release days. Students in K-6th grade are released early one day per week depending upon the campus. Because there is no dedicated campus supervision before 8:20 a.m. or after the final bell, we ask that students not arrive prior to 8:20 a.m. (unless they are in before-care programs) or remain on campus after class is dismissed for the day. The school offices are open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Read more about La Paloma Academy policies.

Does La Paloma Academy require uniforms?
To encourage a disciplined and focused learning environment, La Paloma Academy does require uniforms. The following dress code applies:

• Collared polo shirts in solid red, white and/or navy.
• Slacks, shorts, jumpers, capris or skirts in navy and/or khaki.

Learn more about the dress code and other La Paloma Academy policies.

Does La Paloma Academy have a Free and Reduced Lunch Program?
Yes. Every family fills out a La Paloma Academy Free and Reduced Lunch form upon enrollment. Any family that is in need and qualifies for the program can rest assured that their children’s needs are being taken care of at school and that their personal information is kept confidential.

Are the teachers at La Paloma Academy certified?
La Paloma Academy is in compliance with the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) guidelines. Our teachers are highly qualified, and many come from successful careers in the areas in which they now teach. La Paloma Academy strives to hire only the best teachers who model the values we stress at school. Teacher information is available in the school’s front office.

What is the maximum number of students allowed per class?
Class sizes are capped at 25 students, which helps incorporate individualized instruction in every kindergarten, elementary and middle school classroom.

Is there a Physical Education or sports program at La Paloma Academy?
La Paloma Academy has a full-time Physical Education teacher as well as a competitive sports program, including boys’ and girls’ basketball, boys’ soccer and girls’ volleyball. All of our student athletes are taught about continuing sportsmanship at a competitive level. We have been able to win several league championships, while teaching our students to be positive student athletes. Learn more about La Paloma Academy sports teams.

Will my student be able to receive special education services at La Paloma Academy?
Yes. La Paloma Academy’s dedication to special education has been strong ever since opening in 2002. In fact, in 2005, La Paloma Academy was recognized with the Excellence in Education Award from the Arizona Department of Education for the school's efforts to benefit special-education students. The award was presented to Founder and Superintendent Raena Janes because of the school's success with special education. With a high-level of special education staff, La Paloma Academy’s special education program strives to provide the least restricted environment for every child to learn. Learn more about special education at La Paloma Academy.

How do I enroll my child at La Paloma Academy?
Enrollment at La Paloma Academy is easy, and enrollment applications are accepted year-round. All K-8th grade students who apply to La Paloma Academy are accepted as long as there are openings in the child’s grade level. Simply fill out our enrollment forms, available online or in the school office, and turn them into the school office. Be prepared to show your child’s birth certificate and immunization records. Print out enrollment forms.