Parent Handbook

Eagle County Charter Academy Parent Handbook (2026–2027)

This handbook includes some very important information about Eagle County Charter Academy, its policies and its procedures. Please take the time to read this entire handbook and review it with your ECCA student(s). Keep in mind that no one document can answer every question or address every concern that arises throughout the school year. We have an open door policy at our school and communicate on a weekly basis via our school newsletter, Hawk Talk. All of the staff at our school is available to clarify and follow up on any concerns or questions that you may have.

As a community, we value living by the Hawk Traits:
Respect, Work, Integrity, Leadership, Camaraderie & Growth

We value CHILDREN FIRST.

We value learning—in all ways, for all ages, forever.

We value staff—hiring the best and supporting them to
always strive to be excellent and to keep CHILDREN FIRST.

We value direct, open, honest communication.

We value the courage to empower others,
Innovate and pursue excellence.

We value community.

Welcome to ECCA!

A Note from the Principal

Thank you so much for choosing Eagle County Charter Academy (ECCA) as your school of choice for your child. Our unique college preparatory school brings parents, students, and staff together in a rich, extended learning environment to create students who are respectful, responsible, accountable learners and contributors to the broader community.

ECCA opened during the 1994–95 school year and was granted the fourth charter in the state of Colorado. Originally starting with 64 middle school students in grades 5–7, ECCA expanded into primary school and added Kindergarten in 2004, followed by a new facility expansion in 2012. Today, ECCA serves 360 students in grades K–8.

ECCA stresses strong core academics, character development, impressive parental involvement, small class sizes, experiential learning, and a highly motivated staff providing differentiated instruction and abundant hands-on learning opportunities. We require all teachers to implement a rigorous curriculum based on Colorado Academic Standards while granting them the flexibility to be innovative in their instructional styles.

ECCA has been recognized as a John Irwin School of Excellence since the inception of the award and holds the highest level of national accreditation: “Accredited with Distinction”. Paramount to our school is the consistent emphasis on character development for all students K–8 with “Hawk Honors” and “Character Excellence” awards.

I look forward to working with the ECCA staff, students, and families for a year of renewed momentum and increased opportunity. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me personally.

 

Molly Brown, Principal

Table of Contents

1. School Mission, Beliefs, and Vision

1.1 Mission Statement
1.2 Vision
1.3 Values
1.4 Hawk Character Traits
1.5 Board of Directors
     Board Structure

 

2. Curriculum & Academics

2.1 Core Curriculum
2.2 Homework Expectations
2.3 Assessment
2.4 Technology Policy
             1:1 Program
             Cell Phone & Smart Device Policy – “Away for the Day”

2.5 Field Trips & Enrichment Program
2.6 Extra-Curricular Activities & Athletics

 

3. General School Policies

3.1 Immunizations
3.3 Policy on Religion
3.4 Non-Discrimination
3.5 Anti-Harassment & Bullying Policy
3.6 Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drug Policy
3.7 Visitors & Off-Campus Guidelines
3.8 Conflict Resolution Process
3.9 Attendance, Absences, and Tardies

 

4. Student Code of Conduct & Discipline

4.1 Discipline Philosophy
4.2 Progressive Discipline Structure

      Step 1: Hawk Trait Downdate (Warning)
      Step 2: Official Office Referral / Ticket
      Step 3: Suspension & Expulsion
      Specific Policy Consequences – State Reportable/Permanent Record

4.3 Playground Safety Rules
4.4 Dress Code & Charter Garb Policy

      General Requirements
      Charter Garb Requirements
      Dress Code Violations
      Exceptions
      Donated/Free Charter Garb

5. Daily Operating Procedures

5.1 Hours & Drop-Off/Pick-Up Schedules
5.2 Leaving During the Day
5.3 Parking Lot Protocol

      Riding Bicycles and Walking
      Weather Flag Signals

5.4 Inclement Weather Days
5.5 Health & Illness Guidelines
5.4 Medication Administration (Note: Section misnumbered in handbook)
5.5 Lunch, Parties & Afterschool Programming

 

6. Parent Expectations & Communication

6.1 Family Volunteer Hours
6.2 Key Communication Channels
6.3 Campus Contact Information

1. School Mission, Beliefs, and Vision

1.1 Mission Statement

The Eagle County Charter Academy community creates lifelong learners and productive global citizens through a challenging college preparatory curriculum and character education. We accomplish this through an empowered staff, parental involvement, and small class sizes.

1.2 Vision

ECCA will be the premier school in preparing students for the future demands of a changing world in a pluralistic society.

1.3 Values

We value:

  • Children First: Placing student needs at the center of all decisions.
  • High Standards & Excellence: Supporting staff to always strive for excellence.
  • Effective Communication: Direct, open, and honest dialogue.
  • Innovation & Courage: The courage to empower others, innovate, and pursue excellence.
  • Community: Learning in all ways, for all ages, forever.
  • Hawk Character Traits: Respect, Work, Integrity, Leadership, Camaraderie, and Growth.

1.4 Hawk Character Traits

  • Camaraderie: Treat others with care and empathy; work to make everyone feel valued; see the positive in others; work well with others.
  • Growth: Desire to be the best; learn from mistakes; try hard things; show social and academic improvement.
  • Integrity: Be honest; do what is best for the group; have the courage to do the right thing—all the time—even when it is hard.
  • Leadership: Accept successes and failures gracefully; display a Positive Mental Attitude (PMA); bring out the best in others; serve as a positive role model.
  • Respect: Show courtesy to diverse populations, everyone’s feelings, people around you, and your physical environment.
  • Work: Take pride in what you produce; participate with a positive attitude; push through challenges; do not fear failure; manage time wisely; take responsibility for learning.

1.5 Board of Directors

The ECCA Board creates a collaborative environment through open communication, trust, integrity, and creativity. The Board establishes and implements the philosophy, vision, goals, and objectives for the school.

Board Structure

The Board consists of seven voting members serving uncompensated, three-year terms (limited to two consecutive terms):

  • Five Parent Members: Shana Devins, Kate Tyler, Amy May, Erin Blue, Dan Chavez
  • Two Staff Members: Elizabeth Dekanich & Jordan Thompson
  • The Principal: Non-voting member

2. Curriculum & Academics

2.1 Core Curriculum

ECCA employs a rigorous, standards-based integrated liberal arts, college preparatory curriculum designed around the Colorado Academic Standards. Certified teachers design engaging, sequenced instruction that accommodates various learning styles (auditory/sequential, visual/spatial, and tactile/kinesthetic). The curriculum supports accelerated learning at appropriate individual levels.

2.2 Homework Expectations

Homework reinforces classroom learning and develops study habits. Homework varies by grade level, but all students are expected to adhere to the following baseline rules:

  • Daily Reading: All K–8 students must read for at least 20 minutes per night, 5 days per week.
  • Grade-Level Minutes: In addition to reading, assignable homework follows the 10 minutes per grade level rule (e.g., 1st Grade = 10 minutes; 6th Grade = 60 minutes).
  • Grades 5–8 Math: Additional math homework may be assigned (not to exceed standard weeknight guidelines).
  • Weekend Policy: No regularly scheduled homework on weekends. Exceptions include long-term projects, make-up/missing assignments, and daily reading obligations.

2.3 Assessment

ECCA uses multiple assessment tools to track growth and refine instruction:

  • Informal Assessments: Daily and weekly coursework, assignments, and work habits.
  • Formal Assessments: Periodic unit tests, pre-tests for placement, projects, and reports.
  • Norm-Referenced & State Tests: NWEA assessments (Fall, Winter, Spring) and CMAS (Spring).

2.4 Technology Policy

1:1 Program

ECCA implements a modified 1:1 device program for students.  In lower school, students have access to classroom devices to enhance learning experiences.  Upper school students (5th-8th grade) are provide school owned devices to keep on campus for individual use during the school day.  School owned devices are not allowed to leave the building.  Upper school students (5th -8th grade)are expected to have access to a personal device at home to complete assignments and projects. Devices are provided free of charge to eligible families.

 

Cell Phone & Smart Device Policy – “Away for the Day”

Cell phones and cellular-enabled devices (smartwatches, Meta glasses, etc.) must remain powered off/in airplane mode and stored in lockers or cubbies throughout the school day. Parents who need to communicate with their student(s) should contact the front office.  Students not abiding by this rule will have devices confiscated and turned in to the office to be picked up by a parent after school.  Taking photos or videos of other students, staff, or school grounds without express permission from a staff member/principal is strictly prohibited.

2.5 Field Trips & Enrichment Program

Enrichment typically occurs on Fridays, utilizing community resources as an extended classroom for physical education, performing arts, visual arts, and community service.

  • Attendance: Enrichment days carry the same attendance, behavior, and dress code standards as regular instructional days.
  • Fees & Transportation: Semester fees are assessed for enrichment. Parent volunteer drivers must complete office approval forms and provide annual proof of insurance.
  • Car Seat Standards for Private Vehicles (Colorado Law): Children under 40 lbs require a car seat; children ages 4–7 must use a booster seat unless they are over 4’9″ tall and weigh over 80 lbs. Parents must provide required seats for trips.

2.6 Extra-Curricular Activities & Athletics

ECCA offers sports teams including Cross Country, Girls Volleyball, Boys and Girls Basketball. Students may also join non-ECCA middle school sports programs where applicable. All school conduct and dress code policies remain in effect during extracurricular events.

3. General School Policies

3.1 Immunizations

State law mandates proof of immunization or an official signed waiver (personal, medical, or religious) within 10 days of the start of the school year (C.R.S. § 25-4-902). Non-compliant students will be denied attendance.

3.3 Policy on Religion

ECCA operates as a secular public charter school. Discussion of religion is conducted in an academic, objective, non-devotional, and historical context. Holiday activities emphasize cultural and historical roots without endorsing or celebrating religious beliefs. Religious symbols are not permitted as permanent holiday decorations.

3.4 Non-Discrimination

ECCA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or any other protected class in its admissions or educational programs.

3.5 Anti-Harassment & Bullying Policy

Bullying (written, verbal, physical, or cyber) and harassment are strictly prohibited.

Bullying is defined as any written or verbal expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school environment.  Of important note is that bullying can be either physical or mental abuse. It may also take on more subtle, but equally damaging, rumor mongering, stereotyping, or abusive teasing.  For the purposes of this policy, the school environment includes school buildings, grounds, vehicles, enrichment locations and any other school-sponsored events or activities.  

 

Infraction Category Definition & Scope Consequences
Bullying Written/verbal acts, physical acts, or patterns intended to cause distress. Ranges from Hawk Trait Downdate to Suspension/Expulsion and law enforcement report.
Personal / Racial Harassment Verbal/physical abuse, demeaning epithets, stereotyping, or shunning. Disciplinary intervention, parent contact, potential suspension.
Sexual Harassment Unwelcome sexual advances, remarks, physical contact, or explicit materials. Includes obscene or suggestive remarks (including jokes & insults). Immediate administrative investigation and severe disciplinary action.

 

3.6 Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drug Policy

ECCA is a zero-tolerance Drug-Free Zone. Possession, use, or distribution of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vape pens, or paraphernalia at school or school-sponsored events will result in immediate suspension, potential expulsion, and law enforcement involvement per ECS policy guidelines. If off-campus use draws attention to the school or results in legal action against the student, the school reserves the right to take the appropriate disciplinary action.  If a student is suspended or expelled from school because of the violation of the school’s drug and alcohol policy, parents will be informed as well as The Board. The principal will meet with appropriate ECS personnel, as soon as possible, who will then relay their decision to the principal.  The principal will serve in an advisory capacity throughout this process.

The school will support, generally without the threat of disciplinary action, any student who voluntarily seeks help for a substance-related problem.  

3.7 Visitors & Off-Campus Guidelines

All visitors and parents must sign in at the main office upon arrival and sign out when leaving. Relatives or friends may not visit or “meet up” with students during off-campus enrichment or ski/snowboard days. 

3.8 Conflict Resolution Process

Healthy communication requires respectful, direct interactions. When addressing staff, adults should be referred to by their appropriate title (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr.). If classroom concerns arise, the following resolution process must be followed:

  • Direct Dialogue: Parent and teacher communicate directly to resolve the matter.
  • Written Request to Principal: If unresolved, either party submits a written request to the Principal, who will conduct a formal resolution meeting.
  • Board Appeal: Unresolved matters following the Principal’s intervention may be brought to the Board of Directors for a final ruling.


3.9 Attendance, Absences, and Tardies

Regular attendance is critical to academic success.

  • Tardiness: Upper school students are permitted two morning tardies per quarter; subsequent tardies result in lunch detention.
  • Planned Absences: An absence form must be submitted for planned extended absences. Note: This form serves as notification only and does not automatically excuse the absence.
  • 10-Day Rule: Per policy, students who miss 10 consecutive school days are automatically un-enrolled from ECCA. 
  • Dismissal Sign-Out: Parents must physically come to the main office to sign students out. Students will not be permitted to wait outside unattended.

4. Student Code of Conduct & Discipline

4.1 Discipline Philosophy

Eagle County Charter Academy is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and orderly learning environment where teachers can teach without interruption, and students can learn without distraction. Our discipline program is designed to help students develop responsibility, accountability, and strong character by using behavioral incidents as teachable moments.

Students are expected to demonstrate the ECCA Hawk Honor Traits of Respect, Camaraderie, Integrity, Growth, Leadership, and Work in all school settings. Students are responsible for their choices and the consequences of those choices. Whenever possible, disciplinary situations are used to help students reflect, repair harm, and make better decisions in the future.

While staff strive to use progressive discipline, administration reserves the right to accelerate consequences when the severity of an incident warrants immediate intervention.

4.2 Progressive Discipline Structure

Hawk Trait Downdate (Warning) → Behavior Ticket (Office Referral) → Suspension → Expulsion

Step 1: Hawk Trait Downdate (Warning)

The Hawk Trait Downdate serves as ECCA’s official communication tool between school and home regarding behavioral concerns. It documents inappropriate behavior, communicates expectations, and supports positive character development.

A Hawk Trait Downdate is typically issued after classroom management strategies have been exhausted, although more serious misconduct may warrant an immediate Downdate or higher level of discipline.

The Downdate itself is not the consequence, but rather the official documentation and communication regarding the incident. Classroom consequences may accompany a Downdate and are determined by the teacher.

Examples of behaviors that may result in a Hawk Trait Downdate include, but are not limited to:

Grades K-4

  • Failure to demonstrate Hawk Honor Traits
  • Repeated failure to follow classroom rules or staff directions
  • Minor disrespect or disruption
  • Inappropriate language or gestures
  • Interfering with the learning of others
  • Minor physical misconduct or inappropriate conflict resolution
  • Chewing gum
  • Dress code violations
  • Lying or minor acts of dishonesty
  • Other behaviors as determined by ECCA staff
Grades 5-8

  • Failure to demonstrate Hawk Honor Traits
  • Dress code violations
  • Loud, disruptive, or disrespectful behavior
  • Minor insubordination
  • Public displays of affection
  • Repeated failure to follow directions
  • Inappropriate language or gestures
  • Interfering with the learning of others
  • Minor physical misconduct
  • Chewing gum
  • Other behaviors as determined by ECCA staff

 

Grade-Level Procedures

  • Grades K-4: Classroom consequence(s) and written parent communication.
  • Grades 5-8: Classroom documentation.  Written notification provided after 3 warnings. Repeated minor infractions may result in detention or additional consequences. 

Students who demonstrate honesty and take responsibility for their actions may receive additional consideration when consequences are determined.

Hawk Trait Downdates are not part of a student’s permanent disciplinary record. They are maintained by the school as documentation to support behavioral interventions and parent communication.

Repeated Hawk Trait Downdates involving a similar pattern of behavior may result in the issuance of a Behavior Ticket.

Step 2: Behavior Ticket (Office Referral)

An Official Ticket is issued when:

  • A student demonstrates a repeated pattern of behavior documented through Hawk Trait Downdates;
  • A student commits a major behavioral infraction; or
  • Administration determines the severity of the behavior requires immediate intervention.

Tickets involve administrative review by the Principal or Assistant Principal, parent notification, and appropriate disciplinary consequences. Depending on the nature of the offense, Tickets may become part of a student’s permanent disciplinary record as required by law or district policy.

Examples of behaviors that may result in an Official Ticket include, but are not limited to:

  • Bullying, harassment, intimidation, or hazing
  • Fighting or physical aggression
  • Major or repeated insubordination or defiance
  • Theft or vandalism
  • Cheating or plagiarism
  • Technology misuse
  • Major violations of Hawk Honor Traits
  • Repeated behaviors previously addressed through Hawk Trait Downdates
  • Any other serious misconduct as determined by administration

Repeated Ticket violations

Students receiving repeated Tickets for a similar behavior pattern may be suspended. In general, a student who receives a third Ticket for a similar behavior pattern during a school year will be subject to suspension, although administration reserves the right to impose suspension earlier based on the severity or circumstances of the misconduct.

Step 3: Suspension & Expulsion

Suspension may be assigned for:

  • Three or more Tickets involving a similar behavior pattern;
  • Any severe or dangerous misconduct;
  • Any incident that significantly disrupts the educational environment or threatens the safety of others.

Suspensions may be either In-School Suspension (ISS) or Out-of-School Suspension (OSS). Depending upon the seriousness or repetition of the misconduct, suspension lengths generally progress from one to five school days.

Expulsion is reserved for the most serious violations and will be administered in accordance with Eagle County School District policies and applicable Colorado law.

Administration reserves the authority to recommend expulsion whenever required by law or when circumstances warrant.

4.3 Specific Administrative Discipline Policies

Certain violations require additional administrative responses because of student safety and state reporting requirements, and will be placed on a student’s permanent record.

Violation Recommended Administrative Response
Possession of Vape Devices, E-Cigarettes, Drug Paraphernalia, or Related Products
  • 1-day OSS (no nicotine/THC)
  • 2-day OSS (nicotine present)
  • 3-day OSS (THC present), permanent record documentation when required by law, Expulsion Prevention Plan
  • Law Enforcement Notification (discretion of the Principal on all offenses)
Cyberbullying 1-3 day OSS, permanent record documentation when required, Expulsion Prevention Plan, and possible law enforcement notification (discretion of Principal)
Unauthorized Possession, Sending, Receiving, or Sharing of Photos or Videos 1-3 day OSS, permanent record documentation when required, Expulsion Prevention Plan, and possible law enforcement notification (discretion of Principal or when required by law)
Propagation of False or Harmful Information Through Social Media 1-3 day OSS and initiation of an Expulsion Prevention Plan. Additional consequences may apply depending on the impact of the incident.

Note: Recommended consequences may be adjusted based on the age of the student, disciplinary history, severity of the offense, mitigating circumstances, and applicable law.

4.3 Playground Safety Rules

  • Equipment: Equipment is to be used as intended. Swings require bottom-seated forward swinging (no jumping or twisting). Slides are one-at-a-time, feet first. Climbing walls require climbing down rather than jumping off.
  • Prohibited Items: No toys from home, lacrosse/hockey sticks, baseball bats, or golf clubs.
  • Physical Contact:. All games involving physical contact or tagging must be played safely and respectfully. Any contact intended to hurt, intimidate, or knock down another student is prohibited. Throwing woodchips, snow, or gravel is forbidden.
  • Boundaries: Students must remain visible to supervisors at all times (stay inside perimeter fencing, off berms, and out of trees). Check with staff members to return to the building for any reason.
  • No food on soccer field or playground equipment: Students need to sit on the benches or on the sidewalk to eat. All trash must be thrown away.
  • Students are required to wear appropriate footwear at all times.

4.4 Dress Code & Charter Garb Policy

General Requirements

  • All clothing should fit properly and be clean and in good repair.
  • Shoes must be worn at all times
  • Students are expected to maintain personal hygiene and be well groomed. 
  • Acceptable clothing, paraphernalia, grooming, jewelry, hair coloring, accessories, or body adornments are those that do not:
    • Bare or expose traditionally private parts of the body including, but not limited to, the stomach, buttocks, back and breasts 
    • Threaten the safety or welfare of any person
    • Promote any activity prohibited by the student code of conduct
    • Otherwise disrupt the teaching-learning process as determined by staff or administration

Charter Garb Requirements

All students must wear approved Charter Garb tops (Currently purchased exclusively through the Charter Garb store or Lands’ End.)

  • Fit & Style: Clothing must fit without exposing skin or undergarments when reaching or bending.
  • Tops & Layering: Official ECCA Logo-branded t-shirts,  polo shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts. Students are not allowed to wear non-Charter Garb sweatshirts/hoodies to school.  Families are not allowed to individually monogram clothing from other providers. 
  • Bottoms: Clean, well-fitting pants/shorts/skirts. Sagging bottoms and “short shorts” are not allowed.  
    • Solid colored leggings are allowed.
    • The following are expressly prohibited outside of special “dress up days” sponsored by staff or student council: Pajamas, lounge pants, sweatpants, joggers, athletic shorts. 
  • Footwear: Shoes must be worn at all times.  ECCA staff has the right to disallow any type of shoe if they feel it may pose a threat to student safety. Slippers and flip flops are expressly prohibited. 
  • Accessories: Hats, caps, visors, and sunglasses may not be worn indoors. 
  • Coats should not be worn in the classroom

Dress Code Violations

  1. First Infraction: warning/Change clothes
  2. Second Infraction:  Hawk Trait Downdate; wait in office for replacement attire.
  3. Third Infraction: Issuance of an official Ticket & detentions.
  4. Subsequent Infractions: Progression toward suspensions, formal uniform requirements, or other consequences as determined by Administration.

Exceptions

Upon written request, reasonable accommodations in the dress code shall be made by Administration for students with injuries, disabilities or religious convictions. 

Donated/Free Charter Garb

A bin with donated Charter Garb is located in the front foyer. Anyone can donate gently used Charter Garb and anyone can take whatever they need from the bin. Charter Garb is also available free of charge for eligible families. 

5. Daily Operating Procedures

5.1 Hours & Drop-Off/Pick-Up Schedules

  • School Hours (K–8): 8:00 AM – 3:15 PM (Monday – Friday)
  • Drop-Off Window: 7:45 AM – 7:55 AM (Doors open at 7:50 AM)
  • Pick-Up Window: 3:15 PM – 3:30 PM

 

Supervision Notice: Outdoor supervision is provided from 7:45 AM–8:00 AM and 3:15 PM–3:30 PM. Students remaining after 3:30 PM will be transferred to the After School Program at parent expense.

5.2 Leaving During the Day

Parents/guardians are encouraged to schedule appointments outside of school hours.  If it is absolutely necessary for a student to leave campus during the school day, the following guidelines will apply:

  • Students must be signed out at the office when leaving campus. A parent or guardian must be physically present to dismiss their child; a signature is also expected. Students may not leave the school building on their own and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

 

  • A parent or guardian must be physically present for a child to be dismissed from an enrichment activity or class trip, unless otherwise specified by the school.

5.3 Parking Lot Protocol

  • Cell Phone Usage: Strictly prohibited while driving in the parking lot.
  • Loop Traversal: Drive completely around the loop, pulling all the way forward to the stop sign or preceding vehicle.
  • Loading Zone: Drop-off and pick-up are permitted only in the lane closest to the sidewalk. Students should enter & exit vehicles from the curbside. 
  •  Never leave vehicles unattended in the drive lane.
  • Always use pedestrian crosswalks.

 

End of Day Carpool Locations:

Riding Bicycles and Walking

Walking and riding bicycles are acceptable forms of transportation.  Please educate your child(ren) on biking/walking safety and etiquette. Bikes, scooters & skateboard riders all require helmets. For the sake of student safety, parents should ensure that children do not arrive at school before supervision is available.

 

Weather Flag Signals

  • Green Flag (Morning): Severe weather/temperatures below 10°F: K–4 report to the cafeteria; 5–8 report to lockers. Students do not need to wait outside.
  • Red Flag (Afternoon): Active severe weather (typically lightning). All students will be held safely inside the building for individual parent check-out coordinated by Admin & Office staff. 
    • K/1 students will exit the Kindergarten doors
    • 2/3/4 grade students will exit the far west doors
    • 5/6/7/8 grade students will exit the main doors
    • Walkers & Bikers will be held until lightning danger has cleared 5 miles.

5.4 Inclement Weather Days

The Eagle County School Superintendent makes decisions on school closures by 6:30am.  Any closures or delayed starts for the ECS district will also be followed by ECCA.  ECCA may also elect a late start or closure that is not followed by the other schools.  If this happens, parents will be notified before 7:00am using the school’s alert system which is not affiliated with the county emergency alert system.  Emergency dismissals from school because of storms, power failures, etc., occur rarely and decisions are based on the safety of students and parents will be notified via our alert system.  Parents may come to the school office to pick-up their child(ren) but we ask that you do not pick-up any other children unless the parent of those students has notified the office directly.  All Eagle County Schools & ECCA text-alert information for cell phones and home phones is pulled from the Powerschool data parents input into the system when registering at the beginning of the year.  If your information changes, it’s imperative to contact the ECCA office with updates. 

 

5.5 Health & Illness Guidelines

To protect our school community, keep students home under the following conditions:

  • Fever ≥ 100°F ➔ Must be fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
  • Contagious Symptoms ➔ Thick colored nasal discharge, constant coughing, or lung congestion.
  • Antibiotics ➔ Must complete a full 24 hours of medication before returning.
  • Vomiting / Diarrhea ➔ Must be symptom-free for 24 hours.
  • Eye Infections / Rashes ➔ Recommend diagnosis and treatment prior to returning.

 

5.4 Medication Administration

Per Colorado state law, school personnel can only administer medication when:

  1. Medication Authorization Form signed by parent and prescribing physician with specific directions for giving the medication (time, dose, reason for medication) and permission to give the medication.  This is required for both prescription and non-prescription (over the counter) medications, including cough drops, NSAIDS, eye drops, etc. 
  2. The medication must be delivered to the school by the parent or guardian and given to office staff, in its original container, with all the required documentation. All prescription medications must have the prescription label included.
  3. One medication per Medication Authorization Form.  These forms are available through the office and on our website. 

 

5.5 Lunch, Parties & Afterschool Programming

  • Lunch Program: Students may bring lunch or order daily meal options. School lunch is free for all Colorado students.
  • Outside food delivery services are prohibited. (e.g. Door Dash/Uber Eats) 
  • Classroom Celebrations (K–4): Classroom parties are organized by a parent volunteer(s) who will seek approval from the classroom teacher, in advance, regarding all party activities, favors and food.  Party activities will center on a non-religious holiday or theme.  Parties will be limited to 30 minutes in length.    If a snack is served, healthy options are strongly encouraged and student allergies must be considered.  If a treat (such as a cookie or cupcake) is provided, it should be no more than one reasonably-sized item.  Classroom parties are not financed by the school. 
  •  Birthday celebrations during the school day are limited to snack and recess time.Private party invitations and gifts may not be distributed at school.
  • After-School Care: ECCA hosts three separate programs for afterschool care. Payments are handled through a 3rd party app called ProCare. For updated policies & procedures, please reference the After School Program section located on our website.

 

Program / Location Grades Schedule & Details
Afterschool Program
Afterschool Room
Grade K-1 Mon-Fri 3:25-5:55pm
Half Days 12:00-5:55pm
Snack provided
*CCCAP funding available
Hawks Club
Music Room
Grades 2-3 Mon-Thu 3:25-5:15pm
Families provide their own snack
Homework Club
Library
Grades 4-8 Mon-Thu 3:25-5:15pm
Families provide their own snack

6. Parent Expectations & Communication

6.1 Family Volunteer Hours

Parent involvement is essential to ECCA’s operational model. We encourage each family to commit to:

  • Suggested Goal: 6 hours per month (or 54 hours per academic year) per family.
  • Note: Volunteering is flexible, and requirements are waived if they impose a hardship.

6.2 Key Communication Channels

Stay connected through the following tools:

  • Hawk Talk & Principal Messages: Electronic newsletters delivered via email.
  • Grade-Level Updates: Weekly updates sent directly from classroom teachers.
  • Official Website: Visit www.ECCA.org for documents, forms, and general information.

6.3 Campus Contact Information

  • Address: 1105 Miller Ranch Road, Edwards, CO 81632
  • Phone: (970) 926-0656
  • Website: www.ECCA.org

 

In the event that specific policy may be undefined in this handbook, ECCA will refer to the Eagle County School District policies as guidance.