Scholar Handbook

We are grateful for the partnership of our parents and guardians in supporting our scholars’ educational experiences. We ask that you show the same commitment by honoring our school rules and protocols. By doing so, you help us maintain a safe, structured, and enjoyable field trip experience for all students. In order to ensure safety, organization, and fairness during field trips, we ask all parents to carefully follow the guidelines below:

• Approval Required – Only parents/guardians who have completed and passed the required background check are eligible to serve as volunteers or chaperones.
• Teacher Invitation – Approval as a volunteer DOES NOT automatically grant attendance on field trips. Each field trip has a limited number of chaperone slots, and teachers will select and invite the parents/guardians needed for that trip.
• Teachers will notify the parents prior to the week of the field experience if they have been selected as chaperones. Parents may not join a field trip unless specifically asked by the teacher.
• Unauthorized Attendance – Parents who are not approved, or approved parents who attend without teacher invitation, will be asked to sign their scholar out of school and separate from the group.
• Consequences – Failure to follow these expectations will result in removal from the school’s approved volunteer/chaperone list.

For safety reasons, families will not be permitted to meet their scholars at the field experience location. Any family member that shows up at a field experience location as an unapproved chaperone will not be allowed to participate in the field experience. The family member will need to sign out their scholar with appropriate identification, and the scholar will no longer be allowed to participate in the field experience with the rest of the school group. 
 

Lost & Found bins are located at the campus front offices. Lost items can be placed in the bins. Once an item is placed in the bin, a notification will go out to staff describing the lost item. When scholars find something that belongs to someone else, they can take it to the Lost & Found bins. To help us return items to your child, we recommend putting your child’s name on items of clothing, coats, sweaters, lunch boxes, etc. Every few months, we donate unclaimed articles to charitable organizations. 

Except in an emergency, all messages will be taken at the front office for children so that classroom instruction is not interrupted. 

The school phone is a business phone and is to be used only for school business. Scholars will not be allowed to use the phone unless given permission by office personnel. A scholar cannot be pulled out of class for telephone messages except in case of an emergency.

Legacy Early College is not responsible for lost or stolen personal cell phones/electronic devices. “Free to Focus SC” is the South Carolina Department of Education's initiative to create a phone-free school environment that fosters a positive learning experience free from electronic distractions. By prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices during the school day, this policy aims to provide an environment that enhances focus and engagement, allowing students to develop the college and career-ready skills outlined in the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. Students will have more opportunities to engage in meaningful interactions, collaborate with peers, and cultivate the essential skills necessary for success in college, careers, and life.” https://ed.sc.gov/initiatives/free-to-focus/ 

• Cell phones may NOT be used during class.
• Cell phones may NOT be charged during class.
• Cell phones must be off and in scholars’ book-bags from 7:30 AM-until 3:45 PM.

We take great pride in communicating news of interest and upcoming events and programs to our parents and community through a variety of venues. If you have another way that we can communicate with you, please let us know.

Some examples of our communication home:

• Marquee and dry erase board out front
• Personal phone calls home and All-Call phone system
• Texts and/or Emails
• Social Media Platforms
  • Facebook 
• Website 
• School and Class newsletters
• Personal written notes
• Flyers and handouts
• Report Cards and Progress Reports
• Daily progress charts
• Home visits and Parent Conferences 
• Parent meetings and catch parents in the car rider line
• Parent Portal 

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act requires certain offices/persons within the school to maintain the privacy of protected health information and to provide individuals with notice of the school’s legal duties and privacy practices with respect to such information. The school will not use or disclose protected health information except under circumstances either required/permitted by law, or pursuant to authorization from the individual or his/her personal representative.

FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education records.

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day Legacy Early College receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students who wish to inspect their child’s or their education records should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask Legacy Early College to amend their child’s or their education record should write to the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. The criteria for determining who constitutes a school official and what constitutes a legitimate educational interest must be set forth in the school’s or school district’s annual notification for FERPA rights. A school official typically includes a person employed by the school or school district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board. A school official also may include a volunteer, contractor, or consultant who, while not employed by the school, performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official typically has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school or school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the [School] to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
   1. Student Privacy Policy Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202

See the list below of the disclosures that elementary and secondary schools may make without consent. 
FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the parent or eligible student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in § 99.31 of the FERPA regulations. Except for disclosures to school officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the parent or eligible student, § 99.32 of the FERPA regulations requires the school to record the disclosure. Parents and eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record of disclosures. A school may disclose PII from the education records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents or the eligible student:

• To other school officials, including teachers, within the educational agency or institution whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that the conditions listed in § 99.31(a)(1)(i)(B)(1) - (a)(1)(i)(B)(3) are met. (§ 99.31(a)(1))  
• To officials of another school, school system, or institution of postsecondary education where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the requirements of § 99.34. (§ 99.31(a)(2))
•  To authorized representatives of the U. S. Comptroller General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as the State educational agency (SEA) in the parent or eligible student’s State. Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of § 99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal- or State-supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs. These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf, if applicable requirements are met. (§§ 99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
• In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary for such purposes as to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§ 99.31(a)(4))
• To State and local officials or authorities to whom information is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed by a State statute that concerns the juvenile justice system and the system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records were released, subject to § 99.38. (§ 99.31(a)(5))
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs; or (c) improve instruction, if applicable requirements are met. (§ 99.31(a)(6))
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. (§ 99.31(a)(7))
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§ 99.31(a)(8))
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena if applicable requirements are met. (§ 99.31(a)(9))
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to § 99.36. (§ 99.31(a)(10))
• Information the school has designated as “directory information” if applicable requirements under § 99.37 are met. (§ 99.31(a)(11))
• To an agency caseworker or other representative of a State or local child welfare agency or tribal organization who is authorized to access a student’s case plan when such agency or organization is legally responsible, in accordance with State or tribal law, for the care and protection of the student in foster care placement. (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(L))
• To the Secretary of Agriculture or authorized representatives of the Food and Nutrition Service for purposes of conducting program monitoring, evaluations, and performance measurements of programs authorized under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, under certain conditions. (20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1)(K))

For additional information, you may call 1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327) (voice). Individuals who use TDD may use the Federal Relay Service. Or you may contact us at the following address:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-8520
 

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Federal law concerning the education of students with disabilities, requires schools to provide parents of a child with a disability with a notice containing a full explanation of the procedural safeguards available
under the IDEA and U.S. Department of Education regulations. A copy of this notice must be given to parents only one time a school year.

You may download your copy today in either English or Spanish.

For more information contact Robin Schubert, Director of Special Services at 864-248-0646 ext 4131.

PPRA affords parents of elementary and secondary students certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include, but are not limited to, the right to:

• Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) –
  1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;
  2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
  3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
  4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
  5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
  6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
  7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; or
  8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
• Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –
  1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
  2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
  3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. (This does not apply to the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational products or services for, or to, students or educational institutions.)
• Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –
  1. Protected information surveys of students and surveys created by a third party;
  2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
  3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.
      

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law.

Legacy Early College will develop and adopt policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. Legacy will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. Legacy will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation in the specific activity or survey. Legacy will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this direct notification requirement:

• Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for marketing, sales, or other distribution.
• Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED.
• Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.
   

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:                                                                                                      Family Policy Compliance Office,  U.S. Department of Education,  400 Maryland Avenue, SW,  Washington, D.C.  20202

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Notice for Directory Information

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Legacy Early College, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, Legacy may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised Legacy to the contrary in accordance with the school’s procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow Legacy Early College to include information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include:

• A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
• The annual yearbook;
• Honor roll or other recognition lists;
• Graduation programs; 
• Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members;
• Newsletters, school and district websites or social media sites, newspaper articles as well as television and radio broadcasts.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, school photographers, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information – names, addresses and telephone listings and student email addresses – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. [Note: These laws are Section 9528 of the ESEA (20 U.S.C. § 7908) and 10 U.S.C. § 503(c).]

If you do not want Legacy to disclose all of the types of information designated below as directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify Legacy in writing. Legacy has designated the following information as directory information:

• Student’s name
• Address
• Telephone listing
• Student email address
• Photograph, Videos of students participating in school events such as plays, awards programs, athletic events, graduation ceremonies 
• Date of birth
• Dates of enrollment
• Grade level
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
• The most recent educational agency or institution attended 
• Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems but only if the identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user’s identity, such as a PIN, password, or other factor known or possessed only by the authorized user
• A student ID number or other unique personal identifier that is displayed on a student ID badge, but only if the identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user’s identity, such as a PIN, password, or other factor known or possessed only by the authorized user.
• Parent Email Addresses (*Limited Directory Information)

Limited Directory Information disclosure, meaning that Legacy limits its disclosure of its designated directory information to specific parties for specific purposes. Such disclosure includes outside organizations that Legacy contracts with to provide services or products, such as but not limited to, professional photographers, class ring manufacturers, yearbook vendors, software providers.

Parents may choose to opt out their child from the release of directory information and/or military or higher education recruiting lists.  If the opt out of Directory information is selected, keep in mind that students’ information will not be sent to colleges for scholarship opportunities, etc., nor will their names appear on Honor Rolls, Yearbooks, Awards Programs or even the Graduation Program, etc. The Directory Opt Out is all inclusive, meaning that if selected, no information will be included in ANY such lists as mentioned above. Solely completing the Opt Out information in the Parent Portal will not be considered unless a written form is on file at the school with a parental signature. Again, Legacy requires a written Opt Out form completed on campus with the help of the Parent Coordinator.

Please note that you must notify Legacy EACH year if you do NOT want directory information released. You cannot choose what student information to release. However, you can specifically choose to exclude military recruiters and institutions of higher education from receiving directory information.
 

Legacy Early College believes that all adults are role models for our scholars as productive citizens in our community. Just as our teachers and staff are expected to communicate in a respectful and positive manner with all family members, Legacy family members are expected to communicate with our teachers and staff in the same respectful and positive manner. We remind our families to refrain from using an unkind tone, using inappropriate language with a staff member or acting disrespectful to teachers in any fashion. We will not tolerate this behavior in our communication and will address participants quickly and appropriately.

The school requires a note/form from parents or guardians under the following circumstances:

• To explain an absence 
• To explain a tardy
• To request early dismissal
• To excuse the child from recess or physical education
• To change daily transportation procedures
• Permission for child to go home with another child
• To request a change in bus transportation 
• For scholars to attend a field trip
• Authorization for medication
• Emergency treatment form
• Any other special issue needing to be addressed

A minimum of two formal contacts between the child’s teacher, child, and parent/guardian will be scheduled during the school year.  These are typically scheduled at the end of the nine-week reporting periods.  

To be successful, Legacy Early College Scholars must commit to LEC expectations with:
Exemplary Citizenship
to show mutual respect for other scholars and teachers through my words and actions.
to accept responsibility for my words and actions, including accepting the consequences of my poor choices.  
to expect cooperation and self-discipline from myself and others.  
to be introspective of my actions in order to grow as a trusting peer and honorable scholar. 

Academic Excellence
to maintain 80% mastery in all classes that will prepare me to go to and through college graduation.
to be engaged and actively participate in all learning experiences.
to come to school every day with all materials, preparation and attitude that are examples of habits of college-bound scholars. 
to arrive at school dressed appropriately according to the dress code, and adhere to the dress code during school hours and specified school events.
to believe that uniforms serve the purpose of producing respectable citizens striving for future college and career success. 
to understand that uniforms show school pride and create an environment that focuses on academics. 

Health and Wellness 
to recognize the importance of excellent attendance and its impact on academic success.
to accept the responsibility to be present in class every day.
to accept responsibility to be on time for school and classes every day.
to make up missed time and classwork in order to grow as a learner.
to accept responsibility for my body through daily exercise and healthy eating.
to be engaged in physical activity every day through PE classes, recess, sports, clubs, etc.
to only choose healthy food items for meals and snacks.
to only bring healthy items to campus.                                                                                                 
 

Legacy Early College is a Title I School. As a result, we receive extra funding for academic initiatives/needs, as well as for technology, teacher professional development, and parenting programs. The current Title I Plan is always available in our offices and on our website for review. At least once a month throughout the year, parents can become involved with Federal Planning Meetings, various programs, and other special activities that are guided with federal program initiatives and funding. Parents are welcome at all meetings, and we encourage our families to be involved in planning every chance you have!

All parents, scholars, teachers, and administrators review our Family/Scholar Compact at the beginning of each school year. This Compact spells out the responsibilities for all to commit to in order to support our scholars in finding academic success. 

Parent’s Right to Know

In compliance with the requirements of the Every Students Succeeds Act, Legacy Early College would like to inform you that you may request information about the professional qualifications of your scholar’s teacher(s) and/ or paraprofessional(s). The following information may be requested:

• Whether the scholar’s teacher:
  • has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;
  • is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived; and 
  • is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher.
• Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher and/or paraprofessional’s qualifications, please contact the principal at your child’s school.
 

The LEC Scholar/Family Engagement Policy is jointly developed every year:

• Legacy parents, scholars, and staff collaborate every year to update the Scholar/Family Engagement Policy for ultimate college-bound success for all Legacy scholars. 
• Parents and all stakeholders are encouraged to attend annual revision meetings during the school year to review the Policy and make suggestions based on scholar needs and school improvement goals. 
• Parents, scholars, and staff are encouraged to participate in various surveys throughout the school year to gather feedback for improvement regarding current Title I programs and other federal programs and policies.

Legacy Early College (LEC) recognizes that:

• A child’s education is a responsibility shared by the school, family, and community during the entire time the child spends in school.
• In order to support the goal of the school to educate all scholars effectively, the school and parents must work as partners. Parents are an important component of a school’s ability to provide for the educational success of their children.
• There is a need to meet the diverse cultural and language needs of our parents and children.
• Engaging parents and families is essential to improve scholar achievement, and the school should foster and support active parental involvement.

Goal #1: Continue to Improve Parent and Family Engagement

• Implement shared expectations as outlined below with the LEC Scholar/Family Compact –parents commit to supporting scholars with all expectations in preparation towards college graduation
• Involve families in all aspects of college planning for scholars
• Maintain Parent Coordinators for all 4 levels to encourage participation between our families and school/local community resources
• Continue expectations of our Volunteer Policy

Goal #2: Increase Communication between School and Families

• At least once a month throughout the year, parents can become involved with Federal Planning Meetings, various programs, and other special activities that are guided with federal program initiatives and funding. All parents are welcome at all meetings, and we encourage our families to be involved in planning every chance they have!
• LEC takes great pride in communicating news of interest and upcoming events and programs to our parents and community through a variety of venues outlined in the compact.
• A minimum of two formal contacts between the child’s teacher, child, and parent/guardian are scheduled during the school year.
• Follow LEC 24 hour rule outlined in the compact
• LEC will share with our families every year their Right to Know –parents may request information about the professional qualifications of a scholar's teacher(s) and/ or paraprofessional(s).

Goal #3: Continue to Provide Programs to Support our Families

• LEC plans a variety of Events and Trainings on each campus tailored to the needs of our families and scholars.
• Curriculum and Instruction:  LEC is committed to offering a rigorous and relevant academic program (outlined in the Scholar/Family Handbook) designed to prepare our scholars to participate in college courses as part of our Early College High School. We are unapologetic in our level of rigor or our high expectations for scholar performance. We believe that all of our scholars can rise to this high bar given the correct support and our mission is to provide each scholar the quality education they deserve.
• Assessment:  LEC believes in the power of assessments to inform instruction and gauge scholar expectations for at least 80% mastery of grade level standards. Various assessments (outlined in the Scholar/Family Handbook) will be used throughout the year, and scholar performance will be communicated to families through graded work, PowerSchool gradebook, and parent contacts. Scholar performance on these assessments is one of the major determining factors in promotion to the next grade level as these data points show whether critical skills and grade level foundations have been mastered.

The LEC Scholar/Family Compact is jointly developed every year:

• Legacy parents, scholars, and staff collaborate every year to update the Scholar/Family Compact for ultimate college-bound success for all Legacy scholars. 

• Teachers and staff provide ideas for home-learning strategies. 

• Parents add input about the types of support they need at home to support their child’s learning. 

• Scholars share feedback to give teachers the best ways to help them grow in daily lessons. 

• Parents and all stakeholders are encouraged to attend annual revision meetings during the school year to review the compact and make suggestions based on scholar needs and school improvement goals. 

• Parents, scholars and staff are encouraged to participate in various surveys throughout the school year to gather feedback regarding current Title I programs, other federal programs and policies

*Responsibilities
****The Scholar’s Responsibilities
Exemplary Citizenship -All Legacy scholars strive to demonstrate exemplary citizenship:

• to show mutual respect for other scholars and teachers through words and actions.
• to accept responsibility for words and actions, including accepting the consequences of poor choices.
• to expect cooperation and self-discipline from self and others.
• to be introspective of actions in order to grow as a trusting peer and honorable scholar.

Academic Excellence -LEC is a school of mastery. All scholars accept academic responsibilities:

• to maintain 80% mastery in all classes that will prepare to go to and through college graduation.
• to be engaged and actively participate in all learning experiences.
• to come to school every day with all materials, preparation and attitude that are examples of habits of college-bound scholars.
• to arrive at school dressed appropriately according to the dress code, and adhere to the dress code during school hours and specified school events.
• to believe that uniforms serve the purpose of producing respectable citizens striving for future college and career success.
• to understand that uniforms show school pride and create an environment that focuses on academics.

Health and Wellness -LEC is a health and wellness school. Our belief is that healthy and active scholars perform at higher academic levels with attention to the following:

• to recognize the importance of excellent attendance and its impact on academic success.
• to accept the responsibility to be present in class every day.
• to accept responsibility to be on time for school and classes every day.
• to make up missed time and classwork in order to grow as a learner.
• to accept responsibility for the body through daily exercise and healthy eating.
• to be engaged in physical activity every day through PE classes, recess, sports, clubs, etc.
• to only choose healthy food items for meals and snacks.
• to only bring healthy items to campus.

****The School/Teacher’s Responsibilities

• LEC is committed to offering a rigorous and relevant academic program designed to prepare our scholars to participate in college courses as part of our Early College High School. We strive to create a school atmosphere in which every scholar can find success through daily hard work.
• We are unapologetic in our level of rigor or our high expectations for scholar performance. We believe that all of our scholars can rise to this high bar given the correct support, with a mission to provide each scholar the quality education they deserve. 
• Teachers will strive to have weekly and various touch points with parents to build consistent communication and to keep families informed of scholar progress.
  Special efforts are made to meet the individual needs of our scholars through individualized instruction, small group instruction, and the use of technological devices. 
• Our school has clearly defined learning objectives following the South Carolina State Standards for College and Career Readiness. 
• LEC believes in the power of assessments to inform instruction and gauge scholar expectations for at least 80% mastery of grade level standards. A variety of assessments will be used throughout the year, and scholar performance will be communicated to families. Scholar performance on these assessments is one of the major determining factors in promotion to the next grade level as these data points show whether critical skills and grade level foundations have been mastered. 
• LEC will meet with individual parents to identify any resources needed and provide all families the necessary activities, strategies, and materials that support continued scholar learning and growth at home, to include, but not limited to: 
  • Standards targeted homework assignments and projects 
  • Online reading and math programs/games to allow families extra skills practice with scholars after school hours 
  • Webinars and training videos to aid parents to assist with daily schoolwork  
  • Weekly newsletters and other social media posts to stay well informed 
  • Daily family support from teachers through email, zoom, phone calls, text, class dojo, nearpod demonstrations, etc 
  • Scholar Services Teams to meet social and emotional needs of scholars along with weekly SEL opportunities for scholars 
  • To and Through Support -working with families to provide additional individual scholar support addressing identified needs and barriers to assist scholars in graduating high school and college

**The Parent’s Responsibilities

• Start each day with a calm beginning at home - it makes the school day much better.
• Encourage scholars to eat a good breakfast and lunch. 
• Make sure that scholars sleep at least eight hours each night. 
• Praise scholars each day for something he/she has done. 
• Have a special place to put schoolwork and other items brought home. 
• Stress attendance. If scholars are ill, home is the best place; otherwise, scholars need to take advantage of every school day. Scholars are required to make up missed assignments when not at school. It becomes more difficult for scholars to be successful when they are needing to play “catch up” too often with their schoolwork. 
• Be punctual. “The early bird gets the worm.” 
  Keep the lines of communication open between home and teachers. Inform teachers of any family situations that could influence a scholar's behavior. 
• Communicate with teachers at least once a week through a note, phone call, visit, email, etc.
• Take scholars to the library to get a library card and encourage reading for pleasure.
• Read to scholars and with scholars at a designated family reading time. 
• Provide necessary school materials for scholar’s attention to lessons and assignments.
• Work at home with skills taught at school to reinforce and practice new learning. 
• Check homework every night. 
• Encourage scholars to use electronic devices effectively to support daily learning in classrooms and continued work at home. 
• Encourage scholars to participate in extracurricular activities. 
• Volunteer at the school when possible. 
   

*Academic Goals

District Goals

• The South Carolina Public Charter School District’s mission is to improve learning and increase learning opportunities in South Carolina through the creation of innovative, high quality charter schools.  Ultimately, we strive to assist South Carolina in achieving academic excellence.

School Goals

• High Quality Instruction: LEC schools will offer high quality, rigorous instruction to every scholar at every campus 
  • By May 2027, all scholars will show growth as measured by MAP and ACT Assessments
    • Mastery on curricular assessments
    • Scholar Attendance
    • Teacher progress on GBF - Get Better Faster 
       

*Communication

Legacy Early College is a Title I School. We receive extra support funding for academic initiatives/ needs, as well as for technology, teacher professional development, and parenting programs. 

The current Title I Plan is always available in our offices and on our website for review. 

At least once a month throughout the year, parents can become involved with Federal Planning Meetings, various programs, and other special activities that are guided with Title I initiatives and funding. All parents are welcome to attend meetings and are encouraged to be involved in planning. 

Legacy takes great pride in communicating news of interest and upcoming events and programs to families and community through a variety of venues. 

Some examples of our communication include:  Marquee, Texts/Class Dojo, Facebook, Emails, Website, Personal phone calls home, School and class newsletters, Report Cards/Interims, All-Call phone system, Daily progress charts, Personal written notes, Flyers and handouts, Home visits, Parent Conferences/Parent Meetings, Car Line, Parent Portal, etc.

A minimum of 2 formal contacts between the child’s teacher, child, and parent/guardian are scheduled during the school year. These are typically scheduled at the end of the nine-week reporting periods. 

LEC will share with families every year their Right to Know –parents may request information about the professional qualifications of a scholar's teacher(s) and/ or paraprofessional(s).

*LEC 24 Hour Rule

All LEC scholars are college bound and our scholars need the support from all stakeholders. No one group can do it alone, so we need to rely on scholars, teachers, support staff, administration, board members, parents, and other community members to help us achieve success.
We are constantly asking our families how we can make Legacy a stronger school. Whether it be through parent meetings, suggestion boxes in the office, surveys, letters, phone calls/texts, or just allowing parents a minute to pull us aside to have a quick word. We strive to do whatever it takes.

Below is an example of how parent complaints are handled, though each case may dictate a different process:

1. Receive the suggestion/concern from parents (through email, phone call, suggestion box, survey, etc.)
2. The teacher takes steps needed to address suggestions/concerns within 24 hours.
3. If the teacher is not the one who can address the suggestion/concern, he or she will make a member of the Scholar Services Team aware. 
4. A member of the Scholar Services Team takes steps needed to address suggestions or concerns within 24 hours.
5. If the Scholar Services Team is not the one who can address the suggestion/ concern, he or she will make the Administration and/or Executive Director aware.
6. The Administration and/or Executive Director, with support from the board, will move forward with final decisions and changes as needed.

*Partnerships

Legacy acknowledges that this work to provide a high quality educational program that grows college-bound scholars is not an easy task. It is a task that can’t be done without partnerships with key stakeholders. Our families are our biggest partners in this amazing mission. 

LEC encourages parents to visit the school and help out when available. Any visitations must be communicated with the classroom teacher and the front office. For security purposes and to maintain the educational environment of the classrooms, no visitors will be permitted past the front office without an appointment or prior communication to the teacher. All visitors to the school must sign in with a valid photo ID at the front office and wear a visitor’s badge at all times while in the building and/or on the school campus.

Visitors must have an escort to enter the academic and/or athletic wings. Scholars are not to invite friends and visiting relatives to visit them during the school day or during lunch unless approved by administration. 

LEC believes that volunteer workers can make a significant contribution to the school and community by giving their time and sharing their skills and expertise with others. Volunteers have a wide range of interests and abilities that complement school programs, thus providing a wider range of interactions and experiences for scholars.

LEC plans a variety of events and trainings on each campus tailored to the needs of families and scholars. Some offered include/but not limited to: Family Curriculum Nights, Parent Breakfasts/Dinners, Health and Wellness Sessions, Food Bag Programs, Parent-Teacher Meetings, Family Workshops, Volunteering in Classrooms, Open Houses, Online/Virtual Activities, etc. 

IntroductionThis policy is in place to ensure the safety and security of all children, families, and staff members.

Definition of “Volunteer”A “volunteer” is any person who, without compensation or expectation of compensation, performs a task at the direction of and on behalf of the school. A volunteer must be officially accepted, registered, and trained by the school prior to performance of the task. Volunteers shall not be considered as employees of Legacy Early College. Volunteers must be 21 years or older.

Tier 1 Volunteer

• This tier requires volunteers to be in the presence and under the supervision of a school employee at all times 
• Tier 1 volunteers must have a National Sex Offender Registry Check completed in the front office each time he/she volunteers
• Tier 1 volunteers must sign in and wear a badge each time he/she volunteers
• Tier 1 volunteers can volunteer in classrooms, work in the Media Center, and plan/prepare/manage upcoming school events

Tier 2 Volunteer

This tier DOES NOT require volunteers to be in the presence of a school employee at all times 

• Tier 2 volunteers must have a Criminal Background Check completed each school year
• Tier 2 volunteers must also have a National Sex Offender Registry Check completed in the front office each time he/she volunteers
• Tier 2 volunteers must sign in and wear a badge each time he/she volunteers
• Tier 2 volunteers can volunteer in classrooms, work in the Media Center, plan/prepare/manage upcoming school events, and chaperone field trips 

Volunteer & Chaperone Field Trip Policy

Legacy is grateful for the partnership of our parents and guardians in supporting our scholars’ educational experiences. Teachers will notify the parents prior to the week of the field experience if they have been selected as chaperone. 

For safety reasons, families will not be permitted to meet their scholars at the field experience location. Any family member that shows up at a field experience location as an unapproved chaperone will not be allowed to participate in the field experience. The family member will need to sign out their scholar with appropriate identification, and the scholar will no longer be allowed to participate in the field experience with the rest of the school group.

In order to ensure safety, organization, and fairness during field trips, we ask all parents to carefully follow the guidelines below:

• Approval Required – Only parents/guardians who have completed and passed the required Tier 2 background check are eligible to serve as volunteers or chaperones.
• Teacher Invitation – Approval as a volunteer DOES NOT automatically grant attendance on field trips. Each field trip has a limited number of chaperone slots, and teachers will select and invite the parents/guardians needed for that trip. Parents may not join a field trip unless specifically asked by the teacher.
• Unauthorized Attendance – Parents who are not approved, or approved parents who attend without teacher invitation, will be asked to sign their scholar out of school and separate from the group.
• Consequences – Failure to follow these expectations will result in removal from the school’s approved volunteer/chaperone list.

Volunteer Approval Policy

• Submitting a volunteer application does not guarantee approval to serve. All volunteer applicants must undergo a background check as part of the approval process.
• Once an application has been received, the background check will be initiated by the designated school office. Approval to volunteer is contingent upon the successful completion and clearance of this background check.
• Applicants will receive an official email notification confirming whether they have been approved or not. If an email notification has not been received, this means a background check has not yet been processed or completed, and approval status remains pending.
• Volunteers will only serve in the schools after completing the volunteer approval process and participating in a Volunteer Training.
• Volunteer approvals do not carry over from one school year to the next. All volunteers must submit a new application and undergo a new background check each year in order to remain eligible to serve.

Legacy Early College is committed to the work, safety, and wellness policies that have been established to protect the safety and welfare of all scholars and staff . The School accepts and affirms that this covers the practice of using volunteer workers within the school environment. Legacy staff will maintain documentation of all volunteer applicants, approval documentation, and training completion in a shared spreadsheet across all school levels. Legacy staff will keep documentation for each time a volunteer supports a school through sign in and sign out records at each campus.

Volunteer Training
Legacy staff will provide Volunteer Training to approved volunteers. Training will focus on the following:

• Legacy Mission and Vision
• Legacy Scholar Family Handbook 
• Legacy Wellness Policy 
• School Routines and Procedures 
• Safe School Climate Act 
• FERPA Laws and Confidentiality 
• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Title IX Policy
• Harassment and Discrimination Policy
• Reporting Policy
• Professional Volunteer Attire
• Emergency Drills 
• Other Items Defined by the Individual Schools

Volunteer Application Process 

• Complete the Online Application (in English or Spanish): 
• Complete the National Sex Offender Registry Check at the school
• Complete the Criminal Background Check for Tier 2 Volunteers at the school
• Once approved, Legacy will send an approval email 
• Once approved, Legacy staff will provide the Volunteer Training 
• Once training is completed, Legacy will plan for volunteers to get started
   

We make every effort to properly account for all receipts and expenditures. Please ensure any money you send with your child is in an envelope labeled with your child’s name, teacher, what the money is for, and the email address or text-enabled phone number where you would like the receipt sent, if requested. Legacy Early College will issue a receipt upon request for amounts over $5.00  Credit cards are accepted for payment in the front offices. Legacy Early College does NOT accept checks for payment.

We make every effort to prevent accidents. We make every effort to maintain a safe environment at school and to prevent accidents. In the event of an accident or emergency, authorized school personnel will administer first aid as needed. For more serious incidents, we will attempt to contact the parent/guardian immediately. If we are unable to reach a parent/guardian, we will reach out to the emergency contacts and permissions provided in your child’s enrollment and consent forms, which may include authorizing emergency medical care or releasing your child to an approved contact.

To ensure prompt and effective communication in emergencies, it is critical that your contact information is always current. Please notify the main office immediately of any changes in phone numbers or emergency contacts:

K4 Center: 864-565-8004
Elementary School: 864-214-1600
Middle School: 864-248-0646
High School: 864-214-1630
You may also update your contact information by visiting the front office or submitting a change request through the designated school communication platform. 

The emergency information you provide at the start of the school year is vital for your child’s safety.  Please notify the school immediately if there are any changes to your address, phone numbers, or authorized pick-up contacts. Current information is also essential for receiving automated phone calls and messages about events, emergencies, or school-wide notifications.

To ensure scholars are prepared for emergencies, we conduct regular safety drills, including fire, tornado, earthquake, intruder, and lockdown scenarios. Drills occur monthly and without prior notice, as required by state law and the Safe Schools Act of 1990. Teachers are trained to guide scholars to safety and evacuation routes are clearly posted in every classroom. Your support in reinforcing the importance of these drills at home is greatly appreciated.

The safety of scholars and staff is our top priority when deciding to delay, dismiss early, or close school. In the event of an emergency during the school day, parents will be contacted using our automated phone system. Updates will also be posted on the school website, Facebook page, and local news outlets.

In the case of extended closures, Legacy may utilize e-learning to continue instruction. Families will be notified with further guidance if this occurs.

While we supervise all outdoor activities closely, accidents can still happen. To minimize risk and promote safe behavior, we ask parents to help us reinforce the following expectations:

• No roughhousing, wrestling, or tackle-style football
• No rough or aggressive basketball play
• No throwing rocks or objects
• No handling unfamiliar items found on school property—report them to an adult immediately

These rules are in place to ensure a safe environment for all scholars.

Legacy Early College encourages parents to visit the school and volunteer when available. Any visitations must be communicated with the classroom teacher and the front office. For security purposes and to maintain the educational environment of the classrooms, no visitors will be permitted past the front office without an appointment or prior communication to the teacher. All visitors to the school must sign in with a valid photo ID at the front office and wear a visitor’s badge at all times while in the building and/or on the school campus. Visitors must have an escort to enter the academic and/or athletic wings. Scholars are not to invite friends and visiting relatives to visit them during the school day or during lunch unless approved by administration. 

In order to provide all scholars a college-bound education leading to graduation from a 4-year university, Legacy Early College must set and maintain a high bar of behavioral expectations. Scholars will be explicitly taught the expectations for learning in the first weeks of school and will be reminded/retaught these expectations throughout the school year. Once they are taught, they must then make the choice to meet these expectations. We believe that all scholars can rise to our expectations, but choosing not to do so impedes our ability to educate them and those around them. Scholars will be expected to adhere to this Code of Conduct and Discipline Policy at all times. Any scholar who threatens to disrupt the learning of themselves or those around them will be handled according to the disciplinary policies below. 

In order to provide the highest level of education to all of our scholars, disruptions to the educational process will not be tolerated. We will work each day to develop the academic and social skills of our scholars that help them grow into principled leaders and citizens, but we will not excuse poor choices. Though we strive to help each and every one of our scholars be successful both inside and outside of the classroom, continued behavioral issues will be treated as a serious matter. The Discipline Policy is in effect:

• on all school properties
• before, during and after school hours
• any time school properties are being used by a school group
• off school properties at a school activity or event
  on school buses or other school vehicle in route to and from school or school activity
• at any time or any place that impacts Legacy’s ability to maintain order and discipline 

Scholars who engage in an ongoing pattern of behavior that is disruptive to daily instruction and overall operations of the school shall be recommended for expulsion. The following is a list of levels and general offenses and potential required or recommended discipline actions the schools will take.

Level I behaviors consist of any behavior that is considered to take away from the educational environment but does not pose an explicit or implicit threat to the safety and well-being of that scholar, other scholars, or staff members. 

Examples include but are not limited to: classroom tardiness, cheating on examinations or classroom assignments, lying, blackmail of other scholars or school personnel, acting in a manner so as to interfere with the instructional process, abusive language between or among scholars, to include profane language, failure to complete assignments or carry out directions, use of forged notes or excuses, violation of school bus regulations, cutting class, school tardiness, truancy, use of obscene or profane language or gestures, and other disorderly acts as determined by the school
 

Level I -Teacher Initiated Behavioral Interventions: Teachers may use one or more of the following consequences:

• a verbal reprimand
• a “self-control” area in the classroom
• loss of Dojo point or scholar dollars
• withdrawal of privileges
• in-class consequence
• temporary placement in another classroom
• separate scholar from the whole class or in other related arts
• loss of outside recess time, inside recess time 
• loss of peer interactions
• ISS or detention
• parent meeting
• any other consequence that may be deemed appropriate by the teacher or administrator
   

Level II behaviors are the continuation of Level I behaviors after an initial consequence has been put in place, or those which cause the teacher to have to stop instruction to address the scholar’s poor choices. 

Examples include but are not limited to:  fighting,  vandalism (minor), stealing, use or possession of laser pointers, fireworks, smoke bombs, pepper-style sprays, cologne or other scented aerosols, and other similar devices or materials, threats against others, trespass, abusive language to staff, to include profane language, other disruptive acts which interfere with the educational process, refusal to obey school personnel or agents (such as volunteer aids or chaperones) whose responsibilities include supervision of scholars, possession or use of unauthorized substances, including tobacco and tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, non-prescription drugs, "look-alike" drugs, and drug paraphernalia, including rolling papers, illegally occupying or blocking in any way school property with the intent to deprive others of its use, inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, misuse of school technology resources, gambling on school property, unlawful assembly, disrupting lawful assembly, harassment, intimidation or bullying, intimidating, threatening, or physically abusing another scholar, any other acts as determined at the school level
 

Scholars may not bring to school individual or mass items (phones, electronics, food, etc.) to sell. Exchange of any amount of money between scholars on campus is prohibited. Failure to adhere to these expectations may result in items being permanently confiscated.

Scholar will be removed from class and will meet with a member of the Scholar Response Team which can institute one or more of the following consequences:

• a “self-control” area in another classroom 
• a reset in the scholar services office
• a behavioral reflection sheet and/or additional assignments
• loss of school privileges
• apology letters to individuals or teachers, or public apologies
• scholar sent home for the remainder of the school day (with administrative approval)
• mandatory parent meeting
• behavioral intervention plan
• ISS or detention 
• Out of School Suspension (OSS) 
• any other consequence that may be deemed appropriate by the scholar services counselor or administrator
   

***Parents must come in for a family meeting if recurring Level II interventions are needed.

Scholars will refrain from excessive displays of affection. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action and communication with parents.

It is the policy of Legacy Early College to provide due process of law to scholars, parents/legal guardians and school personnel through procedures for the suspension of scholars, which are consistent with federal law, state law and regulation and local policy.

According to state law, Legacy may authorize the suspension of a scholar from school for commission of any crime, gross immorality, gross misbehavior, persistent disobedience or for violation of written rules and regulations established by the school. Legacy may also authorize the suspension of a scholar when the presence of the scholar is detrimental to the best interest of the school. 

Suspension means a scholar cannot attend school or be on the school grounds, cannot attend any program at the school in the daytime or at night and cannot ride a school bus.
Suspension is the exclusion of a scholar from school and school activities for a period of time not to exceed 10 school days for any one offense. Legacy uses the word suspension in this policy to mean either suspension from school or in-school suspension as determined by the principal.

After 7 suspension days, families will receive a warning for potential move towards expulsion. At 10 suspension days, an expulsion hearing will commence.

Suspensions of scholars who are classified as disabled will be handled consistent with federal and State law and with procedures established by Legacy. S.C. Code, 1976, as amended:

1. Section 59-19-90(3) – Gives District trustees authority to prescribe rules of pupil conduct, including provisions for suspension or dismissal of those failing to comply with such rules.
2. Section 59-63-210, et seq. – Grounds for suspension, expulsion or transfer.
3. Section 59-63-240 – Expulsion hearings – times, procedures, legal rights appeal.
 

Level III behaviors include a continuation of Level I or II behaviors, those behaviors which pose an explicit or implicit threat to the safety of that scholar, other scholars, or staff members, and violations of the school’s core values. These behaviors usually require administrative actions which will result in the immediate removal of the scholar from the school (ISS or OSS), investigation and/or possible intervention from law enforcement.

Examples include but are not limited to: bomb threats, possession, use or transfer of weapons - a weapon is defined as a firearm (rifle, shotgun, pistol or similar device that propels a projectile through the energy of an explosive); a knife, razor, bludgeon, blackjack, metal pipe or pole, brass knuckles (to include multi-finger rings); incendiary or explosive device; or any other type of device or object which may be used to inflict bodily injury or death, sexual offenses (which include sexual acts that do not result in a criminal offense), arson, distribution, sale, purchase, manufacture, use, being under the influence of, or unlawful possession of alcohol or a controlled substance, as defined in S.C. Code Ann. §§ 44-53-110 through 44-53-270, threatening to take the life of or inflict bodily harm upon a school employee or member of their immediate family, ganging ("Ganging" or participating as a member of a gang and inflicting a violent act of bodily harm, however slight, upon another person will not tolerated. A "gang" shall consist of two or more persons acting together for and with the purpose of committing an act of violence against another person. "Participation" also includes any act that interferes with or hinders a staff member from stopping the infliction of bodily injury that is the objective of the gang.), unauthorized access, use, or attempted access or use of school computer systems vandalism (major), theft, possession or sale of stolen property, disturbing the schools, possession, use, or transfer of "look-a-like" weapons, assault and battery, extortion, any other acts as determined by the school.
 

Any scholar on campus, in vehicles, or participating in any school sponsored activity under the influence, found to be knowingly or unknowingly in possession of, or participating in the distribution of drugs, alcohol, or any illegal substances, will be recommended for expulsion. Scholars will also be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency. 

The use of the recommended dosage of prescription medication from a licensed physician for the named scholar possessing the prescription will not be considered a violation of this policy. All use and possession of prescription medication must be in accordance with Legacy policy.

NOTE: In determining whether a scholar is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, the scholar's appearance, behavior, manner, presence of an odor of the substance, and statements made by the scholar as to the use of controlled substances or alcohol may be considered without regard to the amount of alcohol/controlled substance consumed. No scholar will aid, abet, assist or conceal the possession, consumption, purchase or distribution of any controlled substance or alcohol by any other scholar or scholars in any of the circumstances listed above.

No scholar will possess, market or distribute any substance which is represented to be, or which is substantially similar in color, shape, size or markings to a controlled substance or to alcohol in any of the circumstances listed above. All principals will cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies and will report to them all information that would be considered pertinent or beneficial in their efforts to stop the sale, possession and use of controlled substances.

Any scholar who violates this policy is subject to Legacy's discipline policies. The administration will recommend scholars who violate this policy for expulsion. The Board intends to expel all scholars who are determined to have distributed any controlled substance on school grounds.
 

Legacy Early College is a tobacco-free campus. LEC does not permit smoking, vaping or any other tobacco use on school property, indoors or outdoors. Smoking/Vaping/tobacco use is prohibited anywhere on all campuses, including sidewalks, parking lots, fields, bleachers, restrooms, etc. Scholars under the age of 18 may be subjected to fines as outlined by the appropriate law enforcement agency. Possession and use of tobacco products, lighters, and matches while in the school building, on school grounds, on school buses, or any other time that scholars are under direct supervision of the school, is prohibited and will result in the item(s) being confiscated and the scholar disciplined. 

This policy and the prohibition of tobacco, tobacco products, or alternative nicotine products will be communicated through a variety of efforts to educate scholars, staff, parents/legal guardians, visitors, and other members of the public. Signs prohibiting the use of tobacco products and alternative nicotine products on school property will be posted in highly visible areas, including entrances to school and athletic facilities.
 

It is the policy of Legacy to provide for the safety and welfare of its scholars, employees and families. The presence of firearms, knives, blackjacks, other weapons or "look-a-like weapons" on school property poses a severe threat of serious harm or injury to scholars and staff.

While on school grounds, in school buildings, on buses or at school-related functions, scholars will not possess any item capable of inflicting injury or harm (hereinafter referred to as a weapon) to persons or property when that item is not used in relation to a normal school activity at a scheduled time for the scholar. No vehicles parked on school property may contain firearms, knives, blackjacks, or other items which are generally considered to be weapons.

It is a felony offense, punishable by a fine of $1,000 or imprisonment for five years, or both, to carry a weapon as referenced above on school property.

Legacy will expel for no less than one calendar year any scholar who has brought or possessed a firearm on school property, at school related functions, or at any setting under the jurisdiction of Legacy Early College campuses. For purposes of this section of the policy, a weapon is defined as a firearm. The term firearm is defined extensively in the U. S. Code but generally means a weapon (gun) or destructive device (explosive, incendiary).

Expulsion proceedings for weapons violations will be conducted consistent with Legacy’s expulsion policy and administrative rule.
 

Any scholar who possesses, uses, or transfers a firearm on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity will be recommended for expulsion for one calendar year. A firearm is defined as any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. The term firearm also includes any explosive, incendiary, poison gas, bomb, or grenade. On a case-by-case basis, the SCPCSD Superintendent with the recommendation of the [school leader and/or school board] may modify the one calendar year expulsion recommendation.

State law requires that scholar handbooks contain this notice: 
Any scholar who commits a non-aggravated assault and battery on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event against any person affiliated with the school in an official capacity is guilty of the misdemeanor of assault and battery against school personnel and may be fined not more than $1000, imprisoned for not more than one year, or both. Judicial, law enforcement, or corrections officials must notify the principal of any conviction of this crime, or the crime of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature against a school official, and of other “violent crimes.” Information concerning convictions of these crimes will be included in the scholar’s permanent record. Any school official who reports a school-related crime in good faith is immune from criminal and civil liability arising from the report. 

Legacy Early College will maintain conditions on school property and at school-sponsored events that provide for a safe environment for scholars and staff in accordance with law and the standards set by the Board. Legacy prohibits the presence and activities of gangs on or near school property and at school-sponsored events. A "gang" shall consist of two or more persons acting together for and with the purpose of committing an act of violence against another person.

Legacy believes that gangs which initiate, advocate, or promote activities which threaten the safety or well-being of persons or property on school grounds or which disrupt the school environment are harmful to the educational process. The use of hand signals, graffiti, or the presence of any apparel, jewelry, accessory, or manner of dress which by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark, symbol, or any other attribute which indicates or implies membership or affiliation with such a group, presents a clear and present danger. This is contrary to the school environment and educational objective of Legacy Early College and creates an atmosphere where unlawful acts or violation of the school rules may occur.

Incidents involving initiations, hazing, intimidations and/or related activities of such group affiliations which are likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm or personal degradation resulting in physical or mental harm to scholars or staff are prohibited.
The following conduct is prohibited at all times on school property and at school-sponsored events, regardless of where the events are held:

• Wearing, possessing, using, distributing, displaying or selling any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, manner of grooming or other item that evidences or reflects membership in or affiliation with any gang
• Engaging in any act, either verbal or nonverbal, including, but not limited to, gestures or handshakes, which indicates membership in or affiliation with any gang
• Engaging in any act in furtherance of the interests of any gang activity, including, but not limited to, soliciting membership or affiliation with a gang; soliciting any person to pay for "protection"; or soliciting any person to engage in physical violence against any other person
• Painting, writing, engraving, or otherwise inscribing any gang-related graffiti, messages, symbols or signs on school property

In determining as part of the implementation of this regulation whether certain acts or conduct are gang-related, school officials should consult with local law enforcement.

If Legacy determines that a scholar has violated the prohibitions set forth in this policy, the scholars will be subject to exclusion from participation in extracurricular activities, detention, suspension, and/or expulsion, dependent upon the specific circumstances of the offense. Scholars also may be referred to law enforcement. Legacy also reserves the right to permanently prohibit any scholar from wearing or displaying any article of clothing or accessory which the school has determined to be a gang indicator.
 

A scholar discipline referral to the Dean of Culture is a serious matter and serves as documentation of a Level III behavioral incident. Parents will be contacted upon referral to discuss the incident and the administrative actions that will be taken in response to the violation of our school’s core values. The school leaders may use one or more of the following consequences:

• removal from class
• call home
• home visit
• referral to scholar support team
• mandatory parent conference
• withdrawal of school privileges
• explicit scholar/parent/teacher behavioral plan
• sent home for rest of day
• in-school isolation
• Out of School Suspension (OSS) 
• Recommendation for Expulsion -Scholars may not come on LEC property or school buses without prior approval from the principal. Any person on school grounds can be subjected to a search
• Police Charge
• any other consequence that may be deemed appropriate by the administrator

*Parents must attend a re-admittance conference in order for scholars to return to school.

In accordance with the discipline code set forth in policy, the Board authorizes the administration to initiate expulsion proceedings against any scholars found guilty of serious offenses or for continued and chronic disruptive behavior. Expulsion is the permanent exclusion from Legacy for the school year. Expulsion is a required recommendation for the following acts:

• bomb threat
• possession, use or transfer of weapons - a weapon is defined as a firearm (rifle, shotgun, pistol or similar device that propels a projectile through the energy of an explosive); a knife, razor, bludgeon, blackjack, metal pipe or pole, brass knuckles (to include multi-finger rings); incendiary or explosive device; or any other type of device or object which may be used to inflict bodily injury or death.
• sexual offenses (which include sexual acts that do not result in a criminal offense)
• arson
• distribution, sale, purchase, manufacture, use, being under the influence of, or unlawful possession of alcohol or a controlled substance, as defined in S.C. Code Ann. §§ 44-53-110 through 44-53-270. (See Policy JCDAC)
• threatening to take the life of or inflict bodily harm upon a school employee or member of their immediate family
• ganging ("Ganging" or participating as a member of a gang and inflicting a violent act of bodily harm, however slight, upon another person will not be tolerated. A "gang" shall consist of two or more persons acting together for and with the purpose of committing an act of violence against another person. "Participation" also includes any act that interferes with or hinders a staff member from stopping the infliction of bodily injury that is the objective of the gang.)
• unauthorized access, use, or attempted access or use of Legacy computer systems

By the end of the third school day following receipt of an expulsion recommendation, the Principal shall notify the scholar and parents, in writing, of:

• the rule(s) infraction alleged to have occurred;
• the right of the scholar to review his/her records, including the investigative documents the administration intends to present at the expulsion hearing;
• the right of the scholar to a hearing on the evidence;
• the time and place of the hearing, which must be held within seven (7) school days of the date of notification, unless the parent/legal guardian or his/her representative agree otherwise; and
• the procedure to be followed at the hearing, including the right to be represented by counsel.

The administrator, the administrator’s representatives, the scholar, the parent/legal guardian, and/or the scholar’s representatives may be present at the hearing. If the Head of School (or designee) and the parent/legal guardian agree, the scholar may be dismissed during portions of the hearing. The administrator and the scholar, or their representatives, will be allowed to present witnesses or witnesses’ statements and, within the discretion of the Head of School (or designee), cross-examine the other party’s witnesses. The Head of School (or designee) may ask the witnesses questions. The parent/legal guardian and/or the scholar’s representative will be given an opportunity to argue their position or express their views on the case. A recording of the testimony will be kept on file by the Head of School (or designee) for at least one (1) calendar year.

Within seven (7) school days of the hearing, the Head of School (or designee) will decide and notify the parent/legal guardian in writing whether the scholar committed the alleged rule(s) violation or misconduct, based upon the evidence presented at the hearing, and the appropriate punishment. If the Head of School (or designee) determines that grounds for expulsion exist, he/she may expel for the remainder of the current school year, permanently expel, or give punishment other than expulsion, including but not limited to, assignment to the alternative school, suspension or probation.

Probation means special restrictions have been placed on the scholar’s right to attend school. Violations of these restrictions will result in immediate suspension and a recommendation for expulsion.

Assignment to an alternative school means loss of right to participate in extracurricular activities in the base school during the assignment period.

The Head of School (or designee) will report his/her decision in writing to the parent/legal guardian and the school. If the Head of School (or designee) determines that grounds for expulsion do not exist, all absences resulting from the suspension may be excused, if appropriate, and the scholar’s record will reflect the decision of the Head of School (or designee). The scholar will be allowed to make up missed work, as appropriate.
 

The decision of the Head of School (or designee) may be appealed by either the scholar or the administration if written notice of appeal is made to the Board within five (5) school days of notification of the Head of School (or designee)’s decision. In considering appeals, the Board will consider the following guidelines in its review:

1. whether the decision of the Head of School (or designee) is supported by substantial evidence,
2. whether the decision is consistent with Policy,
3. whether the scholar’s rights to notice and a fair hearing, consistent with this policy and with relevant statutory and constitutional requirements, were ensured in the expulsion process, and
4. whether the decision was motivated by illegal discrimination or arbitrariness.

The Board may uphold, reverse, or alter the decision of the Head of School (or designee). Except in cases where a personal appearance is granted, the Board will render a decision within seven school days of the date the appeal is considered. If the recommendation for expulsion is rejected on appeal, all absences resulting from the suspension will be excused and the scholar’s record cleared, unless the Board determines a period of suspension was appropriate. The scholar will be permitted to complete all assignments pending the appeal process.

Every scholar who has been expelled for the remainder of the current school year may make a written request to the Head of Schools (or designee), for readmission for the subsequent school year. The request, which must be addressed to the Head of Schools (or designee), must specify the reasons why the scholar should be allowed to return.

If the Head of Schools (or designee) denies the scholar’s request, or in all cases of permanent expulsion, the scholar may make a written request to the Board for readmission and may include a request to appear before the Board. If the request is denied by the Board, the scholar may submit another request prior to the following school year.

Unless waived by the Board, all expelled scholars will be required to present evidence of successfully completed counseling or other appropriate intervention prior to readmission. All scholars readmitted to Legacy will be on probation for the school year in which they are readmitted.

The administration shall handle an expelled scholar's request to be admitted to summer school on a case by case basis, depending upon the facts and circumstances surrounding the scholar's expulsion.
 

The principal is authorized to take appropriate action against unauthorized scholars as well as non-LEC scholars who come into the buildings, on campus, or other school property without permission. Scholars who are suspended or expelled shall not be allowed to come onto school grounds or school buses. Any person on school grounds can be subjected to a search.

Corporal punishment is not to be administered at Legacy Early College. This does not include: 

• Use of reasonable and necessary force to quell a disturbance or remove a scholar from the scene of a disturbance that threatens physical injury to persons or damage to property. 
• Use of reasonable and necessary force to prevent a scholar from inflicting physical harm to himself. 
• Use of reasonable and necessary force for self-defense or the defense of others. 
• Use of reasonable and necessary force to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects or controlled substances or paraphernalia, which are upon the person of the scholar, or within his/her control.

Legacy Early College is committed to fostering an environment that both promotes learning and prevents disruptions in the educational process. While Legacy embraces scholars’ legal rights and the principle of freedom of speech, these rights are not absolute. Legacy will strive to prevent scholar behavior including, but not limited to, unlawful student assemblage, acts of violence, and vandalism that is disruptive to the school setting. In order to create and maintain an atmosphere that promotes learning and prevents disruption, Legacy has implemented the following procedures to address scholar concerns, complaints, and grievances.

As provided in the South Carolina Safe School Climate Act, Legacy prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation or
bullying of a scholar by another scholar or scholars, staff, or third parties that interferes with or disrupts a scholar’s
ability to learn and the school’s responsibility to educate its scholars in a safe and orderly environment whether in a
classroom, on school premises, on a school bus or other school-related vehicle, at an official school bus stop, at a
school-sponsored activity or event, whether or not it is held on school premises, or at another program or function
where the school is responsible for the scholar. 

Legacy expects scholars to conduct themselves in an orderly, courteous, dignified and respectful manner. Scholars and employees have a responsibility to know and respect the policies, rules and regulations of the school.

"Harassment, intimidation, or bullying" is defined as a gesture, an electronic communication (cyberbullying and online harassment), or a written, verbal, physical, or sexual act that a reasonable person should know will have the
effect of:

• harming a scholar, physically or emotionally, or damaging a scholar’s property, or placing a scholar in
  reasonable fear of personal harm or damage to his property; or
• insulting or demeaning a scholar or group of scholars in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or
  substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

Any scholar who believes he/she has been subject to harassment, intimidation, or bullying should file a complaint
with the principal or his or her designee. Such a complaint may also be filed by a scholar's parent. If an allegation of harassment, intimidation, or bullying is against the school’s administration, the scholar or parent should file a
complaint with the school administration. If an employee receives a complaint of harassment, intimidation, or
bullying or observes any behavior which could amount to harassment, intimidation, or bullying, the employee must
transmit the complaint to the school's principal or other designated contact person as soon as practicable.
Although reports by scholars or employees may be made anonymously, formal disciplinary action may not be taken
solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

Legacy will be responsible for ensuring that reasonable efforts are made to prevent public disclosure of the names of all parties involved in harassment, intimidation, or bullying allegations, except to the extent necessary to carry out an investigation and comply with statutory obligations. Legacy will also make appropriate support services available, such as counseling or mental health resources, if identified as a need.

All complaints will be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and confidentially. The investigation shall include
appropriate steps to determine what occurred and to take actions reasonably calculated to end the harassment,
intimidation, or bullying and prevent such misconduct from occurring again. The scholar and his/her parent(s) shall
be informed that appropriate actions were taken and shall be advised how to report any subsequent problems. A
scholar or his/her parent may request that the Head of Schools (or designee) review the investigation and actions
implemented by the principal (or designee). The complaint, investigation, and actions taken by the school will be
reviewed. The parent will then be notified in writing of the results of the review.

If the investigation determines that harassment, intimidation, or bullying has occurred, the administration shall take reasonable, timely, age appropriate, and effective corrective action. Examples of corrective action include, but are not limited to, disciplinary action against the aggressor, up to and including termination of an employee or expulsion of a scholar; special training or other interventions; apologies; dissemination of statements that the school does not tolerate harassment, intimidation, or bullying; independent reassessment of scholar work; and/or tutoring.

Individuals, including scholars, employees, parents, and volunteers, may also be referred to law enforcement
officials. The school will take all other appropriate steps to correct or rectify the situation.

A scholar who believes that he or she has been discriminated or harassed against on the basis of his or her gender, race, color, or national origin should file a complaint with the Title IX Coordinator.

Legacy expects all scholars and employees to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner and to respect other
scholars, employees, volunteers, and third parties at all times. In this regard, Legacy prohibits sexual harassment, all forms of sexual discrimination, and other inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature.

All scholars and employees must avoid any action or conduct which could be viewed as sexual harassment or inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature. This includes any action or conduct communicated or performed in person,
in writing, or electronically through such means as a telephone, cell phone, computer, or other  telecommunication device, and includes text messaging and instant messaging.

Sexual harassment of scholars consists of unwelcome (as determined based on the age of the scholar) sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: (1) submission to such conduct is made either expressly or impliedly a condition of the scholar's participation in an educational program or activity; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by a scholar is used as the basis for any educational decisions affecting the scholar; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with the scholar's educational performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.

Any scholar who believes he/she has been subjected to sexual harassment by another scholar or an employee is
encouraged to file a complaint in accordance with Legacy’s Title IX Coordinator. A parent or guardian may also file a
complaint on behalf of the scholar. All allegations will be investigated promptly and confidentially. Any employee or
scholar who is found to have engaged in sexual harassment with a scholar will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including a recommendation of termination or expulsion, and all other appropriate steps will be taken to correct or rectify the situation.

All employees must avoid any action toward or conduct with a scholar, which could be viewed as sexually
inappropriate. Inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature will not be tolerated at any time. Inappropriate conduct of a
sexual nature with a scholar occurs when an employee (1) makes a sexually suggestive advance toward a scholar, (2)
makes a request for a sexual favor from a scholar, or (3) engages in a relationship of a sexual nature with a scholar.

All forms of disability discrimination, including disability harassment, are strictly prohibited. Legacy will not tolerate
hostile or abusive treatment, derogatory remarks, acts of violence, or any other form of discrimination based upon
an individual’s disability. Any scholar who believes he/she has been subjected to disability discrimination or
harassment is encouraged to file a complaint with their school administration.

If a parent/legal guardian disagrees with any action of the 504 Committee regarding the evaluation, identification or
placement of a scholar, the parent/legal guardian has the right to appeal that decision with the Director of Special
Education.

Legacy prohibits retaliation or reprisal in any form against a scholar or employee who has filed a complaint or report
under this policy. Legacy also prohibits any person from falsely accusing another as a means of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for such conduct will be determined by the principal (or designee) and may range from positive behavioral interventions to disciplinary actions, up to and including suspension or expulsion for scholars and termination for employees.

Scholars and parents are encouraged to resolve complaints and grievances at the school level. Accordingly, a teacher
will provide any scholar or his or her parent/legal guardian the opportunity to discuss a decision or situation which
the scholar considers unjust or unfair. If the incident remains unresolved, the scholar, his or her parent/legal
guardian or the teacher may bring the matter to the principal’s attention for consideration and action. If the matter is still unresolved after the procedure outlined above, the complaining party may bring the school administration for consideration.

This policy will be disseminated to all staff members, scholars, and parents/guardians annually. Information on these topics should be shared in an age-appropriate manner and may occur during school assemblies, in the classroom setting, or in group or individual sessions with a guidance counselor or school resource officer.
Legacy will ensure that information regarding this policy is incorporated into school training programs and that
volunteers who have frequent contact with scholars are likewise informed of the policy.

At Legacy Early College, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our scholars in accordance with the laws of South
Carolina. Gavin’s Law also requires that schools collaborate with the State Department of Education, the South
Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Attorney General's office to implement a policy to educate and notify
students of the law, which includes adequate notice to scholars, parents or guardians, the public, and school
personnel of the change in law and the dangers of sexual extortion. The Department of Education recommends  Gavin’s Law be taught as part of the Erin’s Law curriculum with age-appropriate instruction on the dangers and
consequences of sexual extortion.

Learn More

Legacy Early College is committed to ensuring that all scholars are performing on grade level prior to moving on to the next grade. In an effort to provide additional academic and social support without interfering with grade-level content work, all additional support services (MTSS, SPED, ML, Speech, Guidance, Social Work, etc.) may be provided during our Intervention blocks.
A variety of academic supports are utilized to support scholars in the mission of “to and through college,” including, but not limited to: classroom supports, extended day support, Academic Intervention classes, and W.I.N. (What I Need) block.
Recommendation for additional academic support is based on data collected and monitored throughout the school year (including work samples, classroom grades, and benchmark assessments).
This will ensure that scholars are receiving support above and beyond that of their grade-level peers and are not being pulled from content.
In the event that scholars receive multiple services, the school will make individual decisions based on the best interest of each scholar.

Legacy Early College may offer extended learning opportunities after school hours throughout the school year, depending on available funding. More information regarding available opportunities at each school level each year will be communicated prior to the program’s start date.

The School Scholar Services Teams (SST) at Legacy Early College may consist of the Dean of Culture, Behavior Interventionist, School Social Worker, School Psychologist, School Counselor, Parent Coordinator, Mental Health Counselor, Powerschool Manager, Enrollment Team, School Nurse, and other designated team members. The goal of this team is to provide scholars with knowledge and support in the areas of academic deficiencies, personal, social, and emotional development, to promote positive mental health, and to assist scholars in acquiring and using life skills. This is accomplished through a comprehensive support program including individual counseling, small group counseling, and classroom lessons. Additionally, our team provides teacher and parent consulting on an as-needed basis. Our SSTs may be contacted through our school offices at 864-565-8004 (K4), 864-214-1600 (Elementary), 864-248-0646 (Middle), and 864-214-1630 (High).

The Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) was enacted by Congress in 2000 to address concerns about children's access to obscene or harmful content over the Internet. CIPA imposes certain requirements on schools or libraries that receive discounts for Internet access or internal connections through the E-rate program – a program that makes certain communications services and products more affordable for eligible schools and libraries. In early 2001, the FCC issued rules implementing CIPA and provided updates to those rules in 2011.

Learn More

Chromebooks and equipment are loans and require special care and responsibility. Chromebooks and equipment lost or damaged beyond normal wear must be paid for by the scholar/parent. Scholars are responsible for bringing their assigned Chromebook and charger with them to school each day; they may not check out duplicate items; the device remains the responsibility of the scholar to whom it is assigned. Lost or damaged equipment must be paid in full before additional equipment will be issued. When damage to equipment occurs, the following fees will be assessed:

DAMAGE  & FEE                                    
Chromebook lost or damaged beyond repair = Cost of Chromebook
Cracked screen, 2nd incident  =  $200.00
Lost or damaged Charger  =  $50.00
Missing keys =  Cost of Chromebook

Legacy Early College (LEC) provides access to various technology assets for its employees, representatives, scholars, and volunteers, (mutually referred to as “LEC Users,” for educational and business purposes), in compliance with state and federal law. This Internet Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) governs all electronic activity of users using and accessing LEC Internet systems, including LEC e-mail and LEC-provided access to the Internet, and applies to the use of LEC Internet Systems both on and off school property.
This Policy is subject to and conforms to the legal requirements of the following laws:

• The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA)
• Any other applicable federal or state act, regulation or law concerning the use of the Internet in a public school environment
   

“LEC Internet Systems” includes LEC-provided devices, Internet connections (including wireless connections) provided by LEC, LEC email accounts, intranet and any remote connection to LEC systems. A user is deemed to access and use LEC Internet Systems through any electronic activity conducted on LEC Internet Systems using any device (whether or not such device is LEC-provided) regardless of the user’s physical location.

“LEC-provided devices” means any electronic device provided by LEC, including, but not limited to, desktop computers, laptops, and hand-held devices, such as personal digital assistants (PDAs), smartphones, iPads, tablets and e-readers.

Student use of LEC Internet Systems is governed by this policy, LEC regulations, policies and guidelines, the “Discipline Code” and applicable law. Employee use is governed by this policy, LEC regulations, LEC employment policies, and applicable law.

By using LEC Internet Systems, a user agrees to follow this policy and all applicable LEC regulations, policies and guidelines. All users must report any misuse of the network or Internet or receipt of any communication that violates this policy to a teacher, supervisor or other appropriate LEC personnel.

LEC Technology Assets/Internet Systems  include, but are not limited to:

• Local Area Network (LAN) computers, scanners and printers,
• LAN Ethernet ports,
• LAN Wireless Routers and Access Points,
• LEC issued and managed email accounts,
• LEC issued and managed Microsoft Office 365© online accounts, Google Classroom, any Google-related AI access/apps/programs,
• Internet / Intranet accessibility,
• LEC owned electronic devices, including, but not limited to, desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, iPads, tablets, calculators, hotspots, and E-readers, and hand-held devices, such as personal digital assistants (PDAs).
• LEC owned electronic devices issued to LEC Users
• Remote connections and Virtual Private Networks (VPN),
• LEC websites and Social Media presence
   

By using LEC Technology Assets/Internet Systems, an LEC user agrees to follow the AUP and all applicable LEC regulations, policies and guidelines. LEC Users understand that they can be held responsible for the replacement or repair cost of any school-provided technology asset and/or equipment that is damaged while in their care. All LEC Users must report any misuse of LEC Technology Assets, the Internet, and the receipt of any communication that violates the AUP to a teacher, an administrator or other appropriate LEC personnel.

Internet access and/or email accounts provided by LEC are intended for educational use, instruction, research, communication, collaboration, and other LEC related purposes. LEC Users are subject to the same standards expected in a classroom environment and/or professional workplace.

LEC Users are subject to the following policies concerning the monitoring of LEC Technology Assets/Internet Systems:

• LEC Users have no right to privacy while using LEC Technology Assets/Internet Systems
• LEC monitors LEC Users’ online activities and reserves the right to access, review, copy, store, or delete any electronic communications or files on any LEC Technology Assets or electronic device owned by an LEC User that connects to the LEC Network. This includes any items stored on LEC-provided devices, such as files, e-mails, cookies, and Internet history.
• LEC reserves the right to disclose any electronic activity, including electronic communications, to law enforcement officials or third parties, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law. LEC will fully cooperate with local, state, or federal officials in any lawful investigation concerning or relating to any illegal activities conducted through LEC Internet Systems. 

Users may not engage in any of the activities prohibited by this policy when using or accessing LEC Internet Systems.If a user is uncertain whether behavior is prohibited, he or she should contact a teacher, supervisor or other appropriate LEC personnel. LEC reserves the right to take immediate action regarding activities that (1) create security and/or safety issues for LEC, students, employees, schools, network or computer resources, or (2) expend LEC resources on content LEC determines lacks legitimate educational purpose, or (3) content LEC determines is inappropriate. 

Examples of prohibited behavior include, but are not limited, to:

• Causing harm to others or damaging personal or LEC property, such as:
  • Using, posting or distributing profane, lewd, vulgar, threatening, or abusive language in e-mail messages, materials posted on LEC web pages, or social media sites; 
  • Accessing, using, posting, or distributing information or materials that are pornographic or otherwise obscene, advocating illegal or dangerous acts, or advocating violence or discrimination. If users inadvertently access such information, they should immediately disclose the inadvertent access to their teacher or school administrator
  • Accessing, posting or distributing harassing, discriminatory, inflammatory, or hateful material, or making damaging or false statements about others; 
  • Sending, posting, or otherwise distributing chain letters or engaging in spamming; 
  • Damaging computer equipment, files, data or LEC Technology Assets in any way that interferes or causes disruption to LEC’ educational or business environments;
• Downloading, posting, reproducing or distributing music, photographs, videos or other assets in violation of copyright laws. Any music, photographs and/or videos should only be downloaded for LEC, and not personal purposes. If an asset specifies how that asset may be used, the user should follow the expressed requirements. If users are unsure whether or not they can use an asset, they should request permission from the copyright or trademark owner. 
• Gaining or attempting to gain unauthorized access to LEC Technology Assets, or to any third party’s computer system, such as: 
  • Malicious tampering, phishing or hacking activities; 
  • Intentionally seeking information about passwords belonging to other users; 
  •  Disclosing a user’s password to LEC Internet Systems to other individuals. However, scholars may share their LEC password with their parents.
  • Modifying passwords belonging to other users; 
  • Attempting to log in through another person's account; 
  • Attempting to gain access to material that is blocked or filtered by LEC; 
  • Accessing, copying, or modifying another user’s files without authorization; 
  • Disguising a user’s identity; 
  • Using the password or identifier of an account that does not belong to the user; or 
  • Engaging in uses that jeopardize access into others’ accounts or other computer networks. 
• Using LEC Internet Systems for commercial purposes, such as: 
  • Using LEC Internet Systems for personal financial gain; 
  • Conducting for-profit business activities, personal advertising, or other non-Department business communications;
• Engaging in criminal or other unlawful activities.
   

In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), LEC blocks or filters content over the Internet that may be inappropriate for minors. This includes pornography, obscene content, and other material that may be harmful to minors. LEC may also block or filter other content deemed inappropriate, lacking educational value or work-related content, or that may pose a threat to the network. LEC may, in its discretion, disable such filtering for certain users for research or other lawful educational or business purposes. 

LEC Users shall not use any website, application, or methods to bypass filtering of the network or perform any other unlawful activities. Any attempt to do so may result in immediate disciplinary action against the LEC User.
For additional information regarding CIPA, please visit their website.

“Social media” means interactive computer mediated platforms  including, but not limited to, social networks, blogs, Internet websites, Internet forums, virtual communities, and wikis. Social media platforms must be used only for educational and school-related purposes, in connection with lessons and assignments that facilitate communication with teachers and other students.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prohibits LEC from disclosing personally identifiable information (PII) from education records of LEC scholars and families to third parties without parental consent. However, several exceptions to this general rule may apply and will be addressed according to legal guidance.

LEC desires for all scholars to be safe when using LEC Technology Assets and accessing the Internet. 
1. LEC Responsibilities:                    
            a. LEC will provide a framework of guidelines about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms, and cyberbullying awareness and response. 
            b. LEC will work to protect the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications. 
            c. As appropriate, LEC will provide scholars, staff and parents with guidelines and instructions for scholar safety while using the Internet. 
2. When LEC scholars use an LEC Technology Asset to access the Internet:
            a. Scholars must not reveal personal information about themselves or other persons on social networking sites, in chat rooms, in emails or other direct electronic communications, or any other forum over the Internet. For example, scholars must not reveal their home address, or telephone or cell phone number. Scholars must not display photographs of themselves, or the images of others.
            b. Scholars must promptly disclose to their teacher or other school employee any message or other activity they receive that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable. 
            c. Scholars should not allow LEC computers to save their passwords.

Parents, although scholars will be supervised when using LEC Technology Assets/Internet Systems at LEC, it is not practical for LEC to monitor and enforce a wide range of social values in using the Internet. Parents are primarily responsible for implementing/imparting their particular set of values to their children and discussing with their children what materials beyond this policy are and are not acceptable for their children to access. Parents are exclusively responsible for monitoring their children's use of the Internet when LEC Technology Assets are accessed from home or a non-school location. LEC may or may not employ its filtering systems to screen home access to the Internet or on non-LEC provided devices.

LEC reserves the right to terminate any LEC user’s access to LEC Technology Assets/Internet Systems at any time. If an LEC scholar violates this policy, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken consistent with the LEC Discipline Policy and all school regulations. If an LEC scholar’s access to LEC Technology Assets is revoked, LEC will ensure that the scholar continues to have a meaningful opportunity to participate in the educational program, 

LEC makes no guarantees about the quality of the services provided and is not responsible for any claims, losses, damages, costs, or other obligations arising from use of the network or accounts. Any additional charges a user accrues due to the use of LEC network are to be borne by the user. LEC also denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of the information obtained through user access. Any statement, accessible on the computer network or the Internet, is understood to be the author's individual point of view and not that of LEC or its employees.

Legacy values the importance of technology access for our scholars as needed on a limited basis according to
academic requirements in all grades.

• Legacy Early College provides one-to-one devices for our scholars as applicable by grade.
• The devices are used in varying degrees based on scholar age as well as daily lesson requirements.
• Devices are also used to support required school and state assessments.
• Teachers are expected to prioritize non-technology teaching and learning experiences whenever possible.

• Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools are not permitted for scholars in grades 5K-4th.
• Scholars in grades 5th-12th may use only school-approved platforms with guidance by their teacher for a specific class or assignment.
• Teachers communicate when approved AI tools may be used.

Our goal is to offer a variety of books and other materials for scholars of all ages and abilities that will help them become enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers, ethical users of information, and critical thinkers. 

The Parker campus library media center serves a wide age range of scholars from 5th grade to 12th grade; therefore, the books and materials that are purchased reflect these age differences. Books that are purchased for teens will have content of a more mature nature than books for tweens. A scholar is never required to check out or read any specific book in the library media center. 

The American Library Association’s website tells us that “children are generally not attracted to materials that are too advanced for their reading or maturity levels. If you feel an item is too advanced or not appropriate for your child, use this opportunity to express your views and provide guidance. Discuss your family expectations regarding library use with your children.” 

Our online catalog allows scholars to search for books by grade-level interest which makes it easier to find something enjoyable and appropriate for any age. Scholars are provided instruction on how to search the online catalog at the beginning of the school year. If a parent or guardian feels their scholar has selected a book beyond his or her maturity level, they should contact the library media specialist so she can assist with selecting a different book. The website for the online catalog can be found at   https://legacycharter.follettdestiny.com         

It can be accessed off campus as well as on campus with an Internet connection. We encourage scholars to enjoy the library media center materials they bring home, to return them, and get more! 

Scholars are not required to use instructional materials that offend them or their parents. If a parent objects to instructional materials, a request for an alternative assignment should be completed and returned to the teacher.
Parents or legal guardians may inspect instructional materials used for their scholars’ education. Parents or guardians may request in writing an alternative assignment should they find the planned materials offensive.

Per the SC State Board of Education’s Regulation 43-170, parents or legal guardians wishing to challenge the District’s use of any instructional materials should first attempt to resolve their concerns with their child's teacher and principal. If a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached, the parents or guardians may submit a written complaint detailing their objections.

This form may then be submitted to the school librarian at: mhunkeler@legacyearlycollege.org.

Books and Magazines:

• Middle school scholars may check out two items at a time.
• High school scholars may check out three items at a time.
• Teachers may check out unlimited items at a time for personal use and an unlimited amount of items for classroom use.
• Books have a loan period of 28 days. Books may be renewed if no other scholar is waiting for the materials. 
• Reference materials and current magazines do not circulate and are only for use in the library media center. Past issues of magazines may be checked out for two weeks by teachers or scholars.
• There are no fines for overdue library materials. However, all scholars are expected to return their books and magazines promptly. 
  • Scholars receive overdue notices periodically to remind them of overdue materials.
  • Please see the library media specialist as soon as possible if you have a damaged or lost item.
  • If a book or magazine is not returned by its due date, the scholar may not be able to check out more books.
  • The scholar is expected to return the item or pay the cost to replace the item.
  • Any scholar or staff, regardless of checkout status, may take unlimited books from our Little Free Library. These books may be kept, returned, or passed on to others.
     

Lost or Damaged Items:

• To pay for a lost or damaged item, the scholar should see the library media specialist so she can print out a form with the amount owed. The scholar should take this form with payment to the appropriate office (MS or HS) so the administrative assistant can take the payment and provide an email receipt to the scholar’s parent or guardian. The administrative assistant will then notify the library media specialist that the fee has been paid so it can be noted in the library media center computer system.

• If a scholar finds a lost item for which the fee has already been paid, no refunds will be issued, and the scholar may keep the item. 

• If  lost or damaged books or items are not paid for by the stated deadline, the scholar may not be allowed to participate in any end-of-year activities including graduation. 

• Report cards will be held until the amount due is paid.

Chromebooks from the Library or Classroom Cart:

The Chromebook cart in the library contains laptops that may be checked out by teachers or for scholars that teachers have indicated may need to use one while in the library. If a class is scheduled for library instruction or for testing in the library media center, the Chromebooks may not be available for individual check-out. 

• Each classroom has a Chromebook cart with Chromebooks assigned to scholars by the teacher.
• When in class, scholars may only use the Chromebook assigned to them by their teacher. 
• Scholars are to use Chromebooks responsibly and adhere to the guidelines of the LEC Technology, Internet, and Social Media Policy.
• If lost or damaged, the scholar must pay for the repair or replacement costs.

   Scheduling Library Media Center Instruction Classes:

• Teachers may schedule library instruction classes in the library media center with the library media specialist.
• Information literacy topics available include searching databases for research information, evaluating websites, using Google effectively, MLA and APA citations, plagiarism, copyright, being a good digital citizen, how to use the library and the online catalog, etc. Collaboration is always welcomed and other topics can be taught.
• A two week notice is appreciated and at least a one week notice is required. Please use the form on the website, email the library media specialist, or drop by the circulation desk in the library media center to schedule instruction time. Teachers are required to stay with their classes during the instruction.
• An Aquos Board will be available during instruction, and the library media specialist will reserve it for your class.

Textbooks/ Library Books:

The State of South Carolina furnishes textbooks to all scholars. Scholars must handle and use textbooks, school library books, and public library books with care. Books lost or damaged beyond normal wear must be paid for by the scholar/parent. Teachers are required to assess the proper charges. When damage to a book occurs, the following fees should be assessed:

Periodically parents will receive email updates showing what library books or equipment their scholars have currently checked out &/or may have overdue. Any fines incurred will be listed until paid. Please check these emails for changes to scholar status.