School Policies

Attendance Policy

Regular school attendance is critically important for the academic success of our students. Families must call or email the front office or the Principal in the morning to report absences. Students will be allowed ten absences per semester. Absences that exceed ten must be excused by providing written documentation from a licensed/certified health practitioner or approval from the Principal. The following are considered excused absences: Medical treatment by a medical professional*, observance of a religious holiday, Law Enforcement order, court subpoena, death or serious illness of a family member, natural disaster, traffic accident that directly involves the student, participation in school-sponsored activities, extraordinary circumstances, or situations prearranged and with the Principal’s permission. All other absences are considered unexcused.

After an absence, immediately upon return to school but no later than two (2) school days following an absence, the student must provide the school with a written excuse for an absence to the front office immediately in order for the absence to be excused. Written excuses must contain the student’s full name, the reason for the absence, the date the note is written, the date of the absence, and the parent’s name and daytime telephone number. Absences from school without parental knowledge are considered unexcused absences. When a student has two unexcused absences, the school will contact the family and develop a plan for improved attendance. If the student continues to have unexcused absences, the student may be asked to leave the school and he/she may be reported to the appropriate authorities.

*Note 1: It is understood that on every occasion of sickness, a student will not require medical attention by a licensed healthcare professional. Short term, non-chronic illnesses may be documented/ explained via a signed parent note. In such circumstances, the student shall suffer no academic penalty, provided that all course work, examinations, etc. are made up within a reasonable period*. For continued absence due to illness of 10 or more days, a doctor/health professional’s note is required.

*Note 2: A “reasonable period of time” to make-up work is defined as: At a minimum, the student shall have no less than the number of days he/she was absent plus 1 day to complete and hand in makeup work for credit. Specific arrangements must be made with the student’s teacher.

*Note 3: A student who is absent is required to make up all course work missed, regardless of whether the absence is excused or unexcused.

Arrival/Dismissal Policy

To avoid congestion, we ask that you not park in the drop-off circle at any time. Parking is defined as leaving your car unattended in these areas or sitting in your car for an extended period without moving. If you are caught parked in the circle during school business hours, a fine may be added to your account balance.

Please note that school arrival times are strictly enforced and parents may not drop off students earlier than 8:15 for K-Grade 8. If a student is tardy for any reason, parents will be required to stop by the school office to sign a tardy slip for their child, which will be given to the teacher for attendance purposes. Please understand that excessive tardies and absences throughout the school year may lower a student’s grade. Regular attendance is essential for academic growth.

Uniform Policy

All Lower and Middle School students are required to purchase our uniforms, which are distributed directly through our uniform provider, Risse Brothers. For immediate assistance, please call their office at 407-339-1486 and ask for Justin.

All parents must also ensure their child is properly dressed prior to arrival for classes at Discovery Academy. A copy of the Uniform Policy Agreement must be signed before the student’s first day of school. While we strive to promote a creative learning environment, we also desire to create a sense of equality and pride in every student. Therefore, the Uniform Policy Agreement must be strictly adhered to or the student may face possible expulsion. Read more about uniform guidelines by grade level.

Tuition Payment Policy

Payment options include cash, check, and credit/debit card. Checks should be made payable to “Discovery Academy.” Tuition is due by the first Tuesday of each month. A $10.00/week fee will be assessed on all late payments. If tuition is not paid by Friday of the same week, the student may not be allowed to return to school and will risk losing his/her spot until the balance is paid in full. Read more about tuition and financial aid.