Student Handbook

OUR FACULTY & STAFF 
 
Ms. Melina Jimenez ………….……………….. Principal/Grades K -3rd
B. S. Psychology 
M. Ed. – Master of Education  
CA State Certified 
Professional Teaching Certification/NAD 
 
 
Nancy Garcilazo ………………………………..…….. Grades 4th -8th
B. A. Liberal Studies 
M.A. Curriculum  & Instruction 
M.A. Administration & Leadership 
Professional Teaching Certification/NAD 
 
 
Mrs. Nereida Fernandez ………..…………… Administrative Assistant 
 
 
Mrs. Reina Martinez ……………………… After School Care Director 
 
 
Mrs. Mariann (Dolly) Moen ……..………..……………………. Janitor 
A.S. in Word Processing 

OUR STORY & CONSTITUENCY 
 
 Seventh -day Adventist Christian education began in the Coachella
Valley in 1953, when the Indio Adventist School began as a one -room,
one teacher school. 
 In 1977, the Palm Springs Adventist School was established to
serve the needs of their area.  As the schools increased enrollment over
the years and outgrew their respective facilities in the early 1990s, plans
were developed to combine the two schools and locate at the new Palm
Desert Church site on Country Club Drive in Palm Desert until the
Academy ’s own site can be established in the future. 
 After months of meetings and preparation, the five -church constitu-
ency made up of the Seventh -day Adventist Churches of Desert Hot
Springs, Indio Spanish, Palm Desert Oasis, Filipino/American, and
Palm Springs, adopted the Constitution of the Desert Adventist Acade-
my at a meeting of the constituency held on April 10, 1994. 
 The first classes of Desert Adventist Academy, kindergarten
through ninth grade, started the 1994 -95 school year as a split campus
on the Indio and Palm Springs sites and were moved into modular units
on the Country Club Drive site in Palm Desert on March 1, 1995. 
 The 1998 -99 school year began in the school wing of the newly
built Palm Desert Oasis Seventh -day Adventist Church.  Modular units
were again moved onto the campus the summer of 2001 to provide
classrooms for grades 5 -8 and then again August 2004 for grades 3 -4
and after school care. 
 Upon completion of the final phase of the Palm Desert Oasis
Church, which included church offices, board room, gymnasium, and
more school classrooms, the modular units were removed in June 2009
and all the grades started the 2009 -2010 school year in the school wing
of the church. 

MISSION STATEMENT 
 
Desert Adventist Academy is a TK -8 Christian school committed to
show  children Jesus,  nurture  their love for Him and others,  teach  them
to be critical thinkers, and  empower  them to serve. At Desert Adventist
Academy, we believe in building Academic Excellence with Charac-
ter.  
 
PHILOSOPHY 
 
Here at Desert Adventist Academy, we believe in academic excellence
through best research and best practice. Our staff is continually finding
ways to improve themselves professionally. The, “Character, ” word in
our mission statement is demonstrated through the fruits of the spirit
found in Galatians 5:22: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, and self -control. 
 
PURPOSE 
 
Desert Adventist Academy believes that a knowledge of God, commun-
ion with Him, and emulation of His character are of paramount im-
portance.  With this in mind, teachers and administration endeavors to
provide Christian -related education that will help students reach their
fullest potential spiritually, mentally, physically, socially and morally. 
Furthermore, we believe an understanding of God as revealed in Jesus
Christ and the Bible is the only source of true and lasting knowledge. 
 
In her book Education , Ellen G. White counsels “True education means
more than the pursual of a certain course of study.  It means more than a
preparation for the life that now is.  It has to do with the whole being
and with the whole period of existence possible to man.  It prepares the
student for the joy of service in this world, and for the higher joy of
wider service in the world to come. ” 
 
SPIRITUAL GROWTH 
 
Desert Adventist Academy provides an atmosphere in which students
may become personally acquainted with Jesus as their Lord and Savior. 
With reverence for God and thoughtful kindness to man, students are
encouraged to develop talents, to be practicing Christians, loyal, patriot-
ic citizens knowingly aware of the needs of their neighbors and willing
to serve.  A thorough knowledge of the Bible as the Word of God
guides and leads toward obedience to God ’s Word and His principles. 
 
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE 
 
Desert Adventist Academy provides an atmosphere in which students
will be inspired and motivated to academic excellence, with good study
habits which will foster in them to think critically, independently, and
creatively.  Course selections will allow students to obtain the academic
foundation and building blocks necessary to attain spiritual, profession-
al, and vocational goals. 
 
SOCIAL VIRTUES 
 
Students have the opportunity to demonstrate acceptance of and respect
for each individual, the rights of others, and an understanding and ap-
preciation for all people and cultures.  Desert Adventist Academy  pro-
motes the self -worth of each student and fosters courtesy, kindness, and
compassion toward all persons and respect for the property of others at
home, at church, and in the community as well as at school. 
 
PHYSICAL FITNESS 
 
Desert Adventist Academy provides an environment for students to
show respect for themselves and learn the value of a temperate life,
wholesome recreation, and daily physical activity.  Opportunities are
given for students to develop physical fitness and practical skills. 
 
MORAL INTEGRITY 
 
Desert Adventist Academy encourages in our students a desire for truth,
integrity, and responsibility as exemplified by Christ throughout His
life.
 
ACCREDITATION 
 
Desert Adventist Academy is accredited with the Pacific Union Confer-
ence of Seventh -day Adventists and is evaluated regularly to determine
its effectiveness in providing spiritual and educational opportunities for
its students. 

ADMISSIONS AND FINANCES 
 
Desert Adventist Academy was established to provide education for the
children of the church membership for grades T/K -8.  Our school ac-
cepts other students in accordance with our general policies, require-
ments for admission, and as space allows.  Desert Adventist Academy
admits students of any sex, race, national, or ethnic origin to all the
rights, privileges, programs, and activities for students of the school. 
 
The local Seventh -day Adventist Churches and the Southeastern Cali-
fornia Conference of Seventh -day Adventists subsidize Adventist
Schools through funds provided and/or donated by church members.  
 
REGISTRATION FEE:     $350.00  (Non -Refundable) 
 
 Includes:  Workbooks provided & use of textbooks* 
 Student Insurance  
 Computers/Library 
 Music 
 Home & School 
 Disaster preparedness 
 Yearbook 
 
 *(Replacement cost will be charged to a student ’s account 
  for lost or damaged textbooks or workbooks.) 
 
TUITION:  TK-8 Constituent Member*                 $5,950.00 
                TK-8 Non Constituent Member               $6,950.00 
(Payable @ $595.00/$695.00 per month, 10 months; August -May) 
*A constituent member is a person who has membership in one of the
five constituent Seventh -day Adventist churches. 
 
PAYMENTS:  Tuition is due on the first of the month and is payable
by the tenth of the month.  When tuition is not received  by the tenth of
the month it will be received as late and a late charge  of $15.00 will be
added to your bill.  If your account becomes 30 days past due, the stu-
dent may not return to school until the account is paid in full. 
 
A FAMILY DISCOUNT is allowed of $40.00 per month for the sec-
ond child and each child thereafter for families on regular program. 

REGISTRATION POLICY 
 
1. For returning students: 
All students planning to return to Desert Adventist Academy
must submit an application and deposit fee of $50 to the school
office by April 15, for first acceptance.  The full registration fee
is required by June 30. 
2. For new students: 
a) All new students from the five constituent churches must
submit an application and deposit fee of $50 to the school
office by April 15, for first acceptance.  The full registra-
tion fee is required by June 30. 
b) After April 15, applications will be accepted from commu-
nity students as space is available. 
c) Students entering Kindergarten must be five -years -old on
or before September 1. 
d) Students entering Transitional Kindergarten must be five –
years -old before December 1. 
3. For scholarship students: 
Scholarship information is available at the five constituent
churches. 
 
REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION 
 
1. Completed application form with registration fee and first month ’s
tuition in August before school starts. 
2. Copy of most recent report card and/or achievement test. 
3. Recommendation forms completed by former teacher, principal,
and pastor. 
4. Signed “Consent for Treatment ” and “Child Release Authorization ”
forms. 
5. Immunization verification for all students as required by California
law.  Birth Certificate as well  if first entry in any school system. 
6. Signed Financial Agreement.  (Available at school business office) 
7. Physical examination report for all new and seventh grade students. 
8. Placement testing and interview with teacher and principal. 
9. Name and address of previous school attended to request cumula-
tive records. 
10. Account from previous year of school must be paid in full, if appli-
cable. 
 

FINANCIAL POLICIES 
 
The Desert Adventist Academy School Board attempts to keep the
school charges as low as is consistent with good fiscal management. 
Desert Adventist Academy reserves the right to adjust charges for tui-
tion and fees at any time should unstable economic conditions warrant
such adjustments.  The following financial policies have been adopted
by the Board: 
 
• All outstanding school accounts, at Desert Adventist Academy or
elsewhere, must be settled prior to registration. 
 
• Desert Adventist Academy will not pro -rate registration fees or tui-
tion for late registrants or prolonged absences if the student receives
full academic credit for work completed. 
 
• When a student withdraws from school, a parent or responsible par-
ty must make financial arrangements with the school office. 
 
• If an account becomes thirty days past due, we WILL ask that the
student be withdrawn from school until the amount is paid in full or
satisfactory financial arrangements are made with the school office. 
Student accounts must be paid in full to receive diplomas. 
 
• Billings are sent as of the first of the month, and all payments are
due by the tenth. 
 
• If a check is returned for any reason, a fee of $20.00 will be
charged. 
 
• Desert Adventist Academy will not accept second party checks or
postdated checks. 
 
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 
 
Please contact your local church education representative for applica-
tion and/or information on your church ’s education assistance program. 

PAYMENT PROCEDURE 
 
All payments should be made payable to Desert Adventist Academy
and delivered or mailed to the school address.  Applications and depos-
its, as well as registration fee balances and tuition payments, may be
mailed at any time, including summer recess.  Payment may also be
made by credit card. 
 
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS 
 
Private piano and violin lessons are available on campus.  Arrange-
ments may be made through the school office. 
 
AFTER SCHOOL CARE 
 
After School Care is available for students who cannot be picked up at
the end of the student ’s school day,  
Monday –Thursday 3:00 -5:00
Friday 12:00 -5:00
Fees information can be obtained from the school office. 
 
OTHER FEES INCLUDE: 
 
$15.00 Per month for graduation for grade 8th. 
$75.00 Fee per sport per student. 

ATTENDANCE POLICY 
 
At Desert Adventist Academy, we strive for “Excellence in Charac-
ter.”  We consider prompt and regular attendance to be a significant
attribute each student strives for on their journey to excel-
lence.  Furthermore, we consider these characteristics to be of similar
importance to the school program as organization and good study hab-
its.  Poor attendance affects not only the student ’s grades and opportu-
nities on campus, but could influence their overall self esteem. In addi-
tion, attendance records are a part of a student ’s permanent file which
may affect future educational and job opportunities. 
 
TARDINESS 
 
A student is considered tardy if they arrive after 8:00 and up to 8:15.  If
the student arrives later than the fifteen minute grace period, they must
check in with the office and receive a tardy slip from the office staff.  A
student will not be admitted to class without a pass from the office. This
pass will hopefully prevent unnecessary calls to parents. 
 
ABSENCES 
 
Attendance is a legal record and all absences and tardiness must be rec-
orded.  In compliance with the state law, absences for any reason that
exceed 15% of class time (approximately ten days) during a nine -week
period could result in a failing grade or need for a petition to receive a
grade.   
 
If a student needs to miss a class or part of a class, arrangements should
be made and recorded in writing with the teacher prior to missing the
class. If an unexpected absence/tardy should occur, please notify the
school by phone as soon as possible 
 
PRE -ARRANGED ABSENCES 
 
For vacations or out of town travel, parents/guardians must use the pre –
arranged absence form.  Overall, students who are absent from school
twenty consecutive days or more can/shall be removed from the school
attendance list.  The student must pre -register again at that point. 
 
ATTENDANCE RECORD 
 
Attendance will be taken by the teacher and reported to the office with-
in the first fifteen minutes of the school day.  The office staff will then  

attempt to contact parents of absent students, unless they have given
prior notice 
 
Intervention Time Line for Excessive Tardiness 
1. Four (4) Tardies (A warning letter will be sent by administra –
 tion.) 
 
2. Eight (8) Tardies (A second stronger note will be sent by ad
 ministration.) 
 
3. Ten (10) Tardies (Parents will be required to meet with the
 principal and teacher with a plan of action.) 
 
Intervention Timeline for Excessive Absences 
1. Four (4) Absences -Letter  (A warning sent to alert parents will
 be sent by administration) 
 
2. Seven (7) Absences -Meeting (A meeting with the principal,
 teacher, and parents will be scheduled.) 
 
3. Ten (10) Absences -Failing Grade or need for a petition to get
 grade. 
 
4. More than Ten – Report to the truancy office. 
  
CODE OF ETHICS AND BEHAVIOR 
 
DISCIPLINE 
 
We believe that all students are capable of appropriate behavior. The
staff at DAA would like all students to strive to be their best. We will
work toward a safe physical and emotional environment by focusing on

encouraging the following behaviors: 
 • Appropriate language and behavior. 
 • Respect for the rights of others. 
 • Obedience to and respect for persons in authority. 
 
CLASSROOM RESPONSIBILITIES 
 
Teachers will develop their own classroom behavior guidelines. These
will be posted and sent home. Because parents want a secure environ-
ment for their child, cooperation between home and school is both
needed and expected. 
 
CONSEQUENCES  
 
The Discipline Policy that follows will be used as necessary for failure
to follow the classroom or playground behavior guideline. 
 
Any discipline incidents will be documented in a student ’s Renweb file
and will be referred as a “write -up.” The parent/guardian will be in-
formed via letter/email.  Any teacher or staff member may issue a
“write -up.” The teacher or administrator needs parent support and help.
The school expects that parents will take each disciplinary situation se-
riously and work with the teacher to handle the situation in a timely
fashion. Students involved in a discipline incident or who show a lack
of respect for the school/classroom rules by demonstrating repeated in-
fractions or multiple discipline situations may have one or more of the
following consequences: 
 
• Letter/email sent home 
• Student/parent/administrator conference 
• Loss of classroom/school responsibilities or privileges 
• Forfeit of special class activities or field trips 
• Student suspension 
• Withdrawal or expulsion from school 
 
RESPECTFULNESS 
 
The Golden Rule says: “So whatever you wish that men would do to
you, do so to them. ”  (Matthew 7:12 RSV) 
 
Those who are followers of the Lord Jesus Christ should respect, honor,
and uplift one another.  Thus a colleague, employee, volunteer, or stud-

ent should never be placed in a position of embarrassment or disre-
spect due to any action or statement that has any explicit or implied sex-
ual, racial, age or ethnic overtones.  To do so is a violation of God ’s law
and also the civil laws governing our school. 
 
School staff and students are prohibited from engaging in any verbal,
visual or physical conduct of sexual, racial, ethnic or age related nature
that could create a hostile, intimidating or offensive school environ-
ment.  Such harassment is intolerable, against the law, and will result in
appropriate discipline, up to and including dismissal. 
 
An individual who experiences such harassment should take one of the
following steps: 
1. Talk to the individual that is harassing you and tell him/her that
you feel uncomfortable and explain why. 
2. Speak to your teacher or your principal. 
3. Write a statement to your teacher or principal about the inci-
dent. 
 
Severe matters will be referred to the School Board, and all situations
will be thoroughly investigated in a confidential and objective manner .
 
BULLYING 
 
Bullying is any pattern of behavior by a student, or a group of students,
that is intended to harass, intimidate, ridicule, humiliate, or instill fear
in another child or group of children.  Bullying behavior can be a threat
of, or actual, physical harm, or it can be verbal abuse of the child. 
 
Examples of “Bullying ” may include but are not limited to a pattern of
behavior involving one or more of the following: 
 
1. Sarcastic “compliments ” about another student ’s personal ap-
pearance, 
2. Pointed questions intended to embarrass or humiliate, 
3. Mocking, taunting, or belittling, 
4. Non-verbal threats and/or intimidation such as “fronting ” or
“chesting ” a person, 
5. Demeaning humor relating to a student ’s race, gender, ethnici-
ty, or personal characteristics, and/or 
6. Stealing or hiding books or other personal items. 
 
 
Cyber -bullying  is an electronic form of bullying using electronic de-

vices such as email, cell phones, cameras, text messaging, etc., to sup-
port deliberate and hostile behavior by an individual or group intended
to harm others and will not be tolerated at DAA. 
 
Cyber -bullying often occurs outside of school hours on personal or
home computers, yet its effects may be felt by students, staff, and ad-
ministration during the school day.  When those acts threaten others or
otherwise disrupt the learning environment, the school may take action,
which may result in a wide range of consequences for the student(s)
involved.  Those consequences could range from a conference with the
parents of the student(s), suspension, or even expulsion from school.  It
is also possible that cyber -bullying incidents could be reported to the
police, either by the school or the individual who feels harmed by the
incident. 
 
As part of our commitment to maintain a safe learning environment for
all students, Desert Adventist Academy will be vigilant regarding bully-
ing and harassment of all types. 
 
SCHOLASTIC HONESTY 
 
Any use of external assistance during examinations, copying, whisper-
ing, talking during tests, using cheat sheets, or someone else ’s work for
tests or homework are examples of scholastic dishonesty and will be
dealt with accordingly. 
 
 
SCHOOL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY 
 
Students are expected to respect, protect and care for all school (and
church) property, teacher and staff property, and the personal property
of other students.  Students are expected to use walkways and steps so
that lawns, flower beds, planters, and all aspects of the facilities will
remain attractive, and to uphold a “No Littering ” policy.  The student
and/or parent will pay for or replace all property which has been dam-
aged or destroyed willfully or foolishly. 
 
TECHNOLOGY & CELL PHONES 
 
NO ELECTRONICS, including cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, 
IPods, MP3 players, electronic games, or any other electronic devices
are to be used on campus. 
 
Students with cell phones must abide by the following procedures: 

• Parents and students must sign a contract with the school ’s cell phone
policy that gives permission for their student to have a cell phone. 
• Cell phones are not to be used at any time on school campus. 
• Cell phones must be turned off and stored in backpacks outside class
times (morning/afternoon supervision and After School Care includ-
ed) and then turned into their teacher once they enter the class-
room. 
 
Should a student violate these rules, the following will occur: 
 
1st offense – The student will receive a warning and the phone will be con-
fiscated. The student can pick up the phone when they leave the campus.  
 
2nd offense – The phone will be confiscated, and the student will be re-
ceive a “write -up” in Renweb. The phone will be picked up at the end of
the day by parents/guardians. 
 
3rd offense -The phone will be confiscated and returned to the parents/
guardians.  The student will receive a “write -up” in their Renweb file, and
a conference will be arranged between parent/student/teacher/
administrator. 
 
4th offense  – Suspension 
 
DAA is not responsible for the any loss or damage to cell phones or elec-
tronic devices that may be brought on campus. 
CLOTHING AND APPEARANCE 
 
The dress policy of Desert Adventist Academy is designed to promote an
image of excellence.  The dress and appearance standards exist as guiding
principles aimed at modesty, comfort, practicality, cleanliness, health and
safety.  The administration and faculty recognize the importance of self –
expression and independence.  The image that a student  creates is a re-
flection of the student ’s commitment to Desert Adventist Academy ’s
standard of excellence.  The following code has been developed to assist
students in understanding the image that is appropriate for participants in
Desert Adventist Academy ’s academic program. 
 
• School uniform tops are to be worn during school and after school
care hours unless told otherwise by school personnel.  Uniform tops
(polo shirts) with school logo can be purchased by the contracted uni-
form company. 

• Outerwear such as sweatshirts and sweaters may be worn
indoors and outdoors in addition to the uniform top but must
follow these guidelines: 
• All sweatshirts or sweaters must be solid, uniform colors
(blue, grey, white, or red), have no logos, graphics, or writ-
ing.
• School sweatshirts and/or sweaters can also be pur-
chased and worn by the contracted uniform company
with DAA ’s displayed logo. 
• Modest pants, shorts, skorts, or skirts of a khaki and navy
blue color are to be worn with the uniform top. Neither den-
im/jeans, skinny pants, cargos, sweat pants, flannel
pants, corduroy pants, nor yoga pants are allowed. 
• Pants and shorts should fit properly at the waistline (as a refer-
ence, pants should stay at the waistline with or without a belt). 
Shorts/skirts must be of a modest length, finger -tip length or
longer.  This applies to athletic attire as well.  
• Clothing should be neat and in good repair (no torn, frayed or
inappropriately patched clothing). This also applies to any free
dress days.  
• Appropriate shoes are to be worn at all times.  Beach flip flops
are not acceptable footwear. 
• Rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and other jewelry are not
to be worn at school or school functions.  This includes clear
studs and anything that covers jewelry, i.e. Band -Aids, tape,
etc.
• Hats and caps may not be worn in classrooms.  Hats and caps
worn on campus should be neat and appropriate for school. 
Bandannas are not allowed at any school function. 
 
Violations to the dress code may result in the following actions: 
 
• Letter/email sent home. 
• Phone call home with request for change of clothes. 
• Request for student to change clothes using extra uniforms/
clothes on site (must be washed and returned the next day). 
• Parent/Teacher/Administrator conference. 
• Repeated infractions may result in students being sent home
for the day or a suspension. 

The dress policy of Desert Adventist Academy applies to all school
events on or off campus. 
 
THE FINAL DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE DRESS
RESTS WITH THE FACULTY. 

ACCIDENTS AND MEDICATIONS 
 
ACCIDENTS AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 
 
All certified school personnel are trained in first aid and CPR.  Standard
first aid procedures are followed in the case of student injury and par-
ents will be notified.  If there is a serious injury, professional medical
care will be enlisted and parents will be notified immediately. 
 
Desert Adventist Academy has a Campus Disaster Plan.  There are sup-
plies, food, and water stored on campus should our students and staff
have to stay on campus for an extended period of time. 
 
 
ACCIDENT INSURANCE 
 
Accident insurance is provided for all students enrolled.  A brochure on
school insurance will be given to each family at registration or at the
beginning of the school year that explains the amount and kinds of cov-
erage included.  Reports of accidents should be made promptly to the
teacher, principal, and/or school office. 
 
 
STUDENT MEDICATIONS 
 
No faculty or staff may dispense medication to any student for any rea-
son.  Teachers are not to diagnose a health condition or give any inter-
nal medications, including aspirin, Tylenol, etc. If any student  is re-
quired to take medication during the regular school day as prescribed by
a physician, then a designated school personnel may remind and ob-
serve the self -administration of the medication.  These actions can only
be taken if the school has on file both:  
 
1. A written statement from the physician detailing the time
schedules, amount, and method by which the medication is to
be taken. 
2. A written statement from the parent or guardian of the student
requesting that the school observe the student ’s self –
administration of the medication. 

GENERAL INFORMATION 
 
STUDENT PLEDGE 
 
It is understood that every student who applies for admission to Desert Ad-
ventist Academy pledges to willingly observe the school regulations on and
off campus and to uphold the Christian principles upon which the school
operates.  The student also pledges to perform, according to ability, all as-
signed duties in connection with the school.  All students will be asked to
sign a student pledge on the first day of school. 
 
 
PARENT COMMITMENT 
 
Parents are expected to promote and support the policies and personnel of
Desert Adventist Academy, to speak positively about the school, and to
direct any questions or concerns to the appropriate individuals.  The fol-
lowing procedure is based on the Biblical model of Matthew 18 for resolv-
ing differences: 
 
1. Request a conference with the teacher. 
2. If resolution is not attained, a conference with the teacher and prin-
cipal may be requested. 
3. If still unresolved, request another conference which shall include
the School Board Chairperson and/or Pastor. 
4. If the difficulty remains unresolved, a Board review may be re
 quested.  The problem should be submitted in writing.  Should the
problem involve a school employee, it must be reviewed in executive
session with the SECC Superintendent of Schools or his designee. 
 
PARENT/TEACHER COMMUNICATION 
REGARDING ACADEMICS 
 
FACTS/RenWeb  Student Data System  – access parent web go to   
https://www.factmgt.com/login, then go to Family Portal Login 
The district code for the school is DA -CA. If you need assistance, please contact
the front office to learn how to access the database. 
 
Mid-Term Grades  – At midpoint of each nine week grading period, a pro-
gress report will be issued to parents if the student is earning a grade of D
or F in any subject. 
 
Quarter Grades  – Every nine weeks a report card will be issued to the par-

ents/guardians of each student.  Parents are encouraged to discuss their
concerns with their child ’s teacher. 
 
Parent/Teacher Conferences  – In November and April, parent/teacher
conferences are scheduled.  All parents are encouraged to take ad-
vantage of this opportunity to discuss their child ’s progress with the
teacher. 
 
Testing  – A regular program of standardized testing is administered
each year for all students in grade three and above.  These free tests are
used in the evaluation of student ’s needs.  The test results will be pre-
sented at the November parent/teacher conferences. 
 
ACADEMIC PROBATION 
 
Students who fail to meet the minimum standard of a 2.0 GPA or have
less than a C – grade for any class are subject to being placed on aca-
demic probation.  Such students will be dealt with on an individual ba-
sis.  Academic Probation means a student will not be able to participate
in extracurricular activities such as the sports program, yearbook, or
music groups that miss school days due to performances off campus. 
 
 
PARENT VISITATION 
 
As a courtesy to both the teacher and the students, no parent should in-
terrupt a class to converse with the teacher or a student.  Appointments
to see teachers need to be made for after school hours. 
 
TELEPHONE 
 
School telephones are for business use only.  Students will not be called
from class to answer the phone, or permitted to make phone calls except
in case of emergency. 
 
 
FIELD TRIPS . 
 
Field trips are part of the educational experience at DAA. 
Parent chaperones/drivers are needed, but accompanying parents are
asked to make arrangements for the care of siblings, of any age. Sib-
lings, extended family members, and friends from other schools are not
allowed to attend a class on any field trip or recreational trip for the fol-
lowing reasons: 

1. Field trips are planned specially for children at each grade 
 level. 
  2. The responsibility of being a chaperone demands the full 
  attention of the parent. 
  3. Many attractions that welcome school field trips require no
 siblings or extended family. 
  4. School –aged siblings should not miss a day of school. 
 
Exceptions may be made for younger siblings in TK/K -1st grade only.
TK/K -1st grade parents, with younger siblings, need to make prior ar-
rangements with the Kindergarten teacher. 
     
Drivers must: 
• Be over 21 years of age. 
• Have a valid driver ’s license. 
• Have bodily injury coverage of $15,000/$30,000 and property
damage coverage of $5,000. 
• Have current copies of both driver ’s license and insurance cover-
age (declaration page) on file in the office prior to each trip. 
• Provide copy of driving record. 
• Have background verification report on file in school office. 
• Adhere to all posted speed limits while on trip. 
• May neither consume nor provide for another any alcohol or
judgment -impairing drug substance prior to or during the event. 
• Follow the guidelines given per field trip. 
• Drivers are asked not to smoke in the presence of students while
on the trip. 
• Ensure that each child and the driver have and use a seat belt.
vans may not carry more than 8 people, including the driver. 
• Must not make any unplanned stops —only those designated by
the teacher. 
• Ensure that all children be seated in the rear of a vehicle in an
appropriate car seat or booster seat until they are eight -years -old
or 4’9” tall. 
• Ensure no child under twelve years of age sits behind an airbag. 

VOLUNTEERS 

 
All volunteers must have a background verification report on file in the
school office before driving on field trips or helping on a regular basis in
a classroom on the school campus. 
 
HOME AND SCHOOL CONNECTION 
 
PURPOSE AND FUNCTIONS 
 
Desert Adventist Academy realizes the importance of cooperation be-
tween students, teachers, and parents in striving to meet the objectives of
the school; therefore, parents of the school become members of the organ-
ization at the time of registration.  Active participation in the programs
and activities of the organization strengthen the connection between the
home and school and all parents/guardians/grandparents are encouraged
to help & volunteer as much as possible. 

SEX DISCRIMINATION POLICY 
 
Desert Adventist Academy (DAA) is committed to providing a safe 
and supportive environment that is free from unlawful discrimination
on the basis of sex in all of its employment an student activities, edu-
cational programs, and services. Any form of sex discrimination and
sexual misconduct, including harassment, coercion, intimidation, or
sexual violence, is reprehensible and runs counter to DAA ’s teaching
and guiding beliefs, it will  not be tolerated. In keeping with this com-
mitment, DAA maintains a strict policy prohibiting unlawful discrimi-
nation or harassment.  Also prohibited is retaliation of any kind against
individuals who report alleged incidents of discrimination or sexual
misconduct, or who assist in an DAA investigation of such allegations. 
 
Definitions: 
 
Sexual Harassment : Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sex-
ual advances (including sexual violence), requests for sexual favors,
and/or physical, verbal, or written conduct of a sexual nature when: 
 
1. Submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a     
       term or condition of an individual ’s employment, education or 
       participation  in DAA ’s programs or activities. 
 
2.   Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used  
       as a basis for decisions pertaining to an individual ’s employment, 
       education, or participation in DAA ’s programs or activities. 
 
3.   Such speech or conduct is directed against another and is abusive 
      or humiliating and persist after the objections of the person 
      targeted by the speech or conduct. 
 
4.   Such conduct be regarded by a reasonable person as creating an 
      intimidating, hostile or offensive environment that substantially 
      interferes with an individual ’s work, education, or participation in 
      DAA ’s programs or activities.    

EXAMPLES OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT 
 
Sexual harassment may include incidents between any member of the
DAA community, including faculty, staff, students, and nonstudents or
nonemployee participants in DAA programs —such as vendors, con-
tractors, visitors, and parents. 
 
Specific example of the verbal or physical conduct prohibited by this
policy include, but are not limited to: 
 
1. Physical assault. 
2. Inappropriate or unwanted touching. 
3. Direct or implied threats that submission to sexual advances will
be a condition of educational evaluation, opportunity, or advance-
ment. 
4. Direct or subtle propositions of a sexual nature. 
5. Dating requesting dates, or entering into a romantic relationship
between a student and an employee or faculty. 
6. A pattern of conduct that would cause discomfort and/or humiliate
another individual, including, but not limit to: 
         
         a.    Unnecessary touching. 
         
         b.    Remarks of a sexual nature about a person ’s clothing or 
                body. 
         
         c.     Remarks about sexual activity or speculations about pre –
                vious sexual experience. 
      
         d.    Visual conduct —including leering, sexual gestures, or 
                 the display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, lan  
                 guage, cartoons, or jokes. 
 
7. Use of electronics means, including the internet and e -mail 
       system, to transmit, communicate, or receive sexually sug –
       gestive, pornographic, or sexually explicit pictures, mes –
       sages, or materials. 

Sexual Violence : Sexual violence involves conduct relating to an
actual, attempted, or threatened sexual act against a person ’s will or
where a person is incapable of giving consent (due to age, use of drugs
or alcohol, or because of an intellectual or other disability). Sexual
violence includes rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, sexual abuse,
and sexual coercion.  Examples include “date rape ” or “acquaintance
rape. ” Acts of sexual violence may also constitute violations of crimi-
nal or civil law subject and are to prosecution. 
 
Consent: “Consent ” is defined as agreement, approval, or permission
as to some acts or purpose that is given knowingly, and voluntarily by
a competent person. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. There is
no consent when there is force, expressed or implied, or when coer-
cion, intimidation, threats, or duress is used,  Whether a person has
taken advantage of a position of influence over another person may be
a factor in determining consent.  Silence or absence of resistance does
not imply consent.  Past consent to sexual activity with another person
does not imply ongoing future consent with that person or consent to
that same  sexual activity with another person. 
 
If a person is mentally or physically incapacitated or impaired so that
such person cannot understand the fact, nature, or extent of the sexual
situation, there is no consent; this includes impairment or incapacita-
tion due to alcohol or drug consumption that meets this standard, or
being asleep or unconscious. 
 
Retaliation: Retaliation occurs when intimidation, threats, coercion,
or other discriminatory action is used against an individual who has
brought a concern or reporter a possible violation of a federal civil
rights.  This includes formal or informal reports of a violation and re-
ports regarding a violation of an individual ’s rights or the rights of oth-
ers.
 
Dissemination of Policy  This policy shall be disseminated to the
DAA Community through publications, websites student orientations,
and other appropriate channels of communication.  It  is the responsi-
bility of the administration to ensure that the policy is disseminated
and implemented.  Administration provides oversight and leadership 

For activities involving compliance, coordination, and complaint reso-
lution. Administration can be reached as follow: 
 
By Phone: 760 -779-1799 
By Email: office@desertadventistacademy.org 
Set up a meeting 
 
Member of the DAA community school should contact administration
in order to: 
 
1. Seek information or training about students ’ rights and courses of
action available to resolve reports or complaints that involve po-
tential sex discrimination, including sexual misconduct. 
2. File a complaint or make a report of sex discrimination, including
sexual misconduct. 
3. Notify the DAA of an incident or policy or procedure that may
raise potential sex discrimination, including sexual misconduct. 
4. Get information about available resources (including confidential
resources) and support services relating to sex discrimination, in-
cluding sexual misconduct. 
5. Ask questions about the DAA ’s policies and procedures related to
sex discrimination including sexual misconduct. 
 
PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING AND RESPONDING
TO COMPLAINTS OF SEX DISCRIMINATION AND/OR
SEXUAL MISCONDUCT 
 
DAA encourages those who believe they have experienced any form
of sex discrimination or sexual misconduct of any nature to report such
conduct promptly, to seek all available assistance, and to pursue an
equitable resolution of the incident(s). 
 
Procedures have been established to provide a supportive process for
individual who report discrimination and to ensure an equitable pro-
cess for individuals accused of discriminatory conduct.  These proce-
dures reflect DAA ’s effort to conduct timely, thorough, and equitable
investigations. 
 
Prior to filing a written complaint, a student or employee, or may
choose to bring the matter to the attention of a faculty member, admin-
istrator,  or any other responsible employee in a position of direct authority to
resolve the issue.  These responsible employees have a duty to take
appropriate disciplinary action if they find that DAA policy has been
violated. 
 
FILING A WRITTEN COMPLAINT 
 
Individuals are reminded that reporting sexual misconduct is a person-
al and professional responsibility.  The procedure is as follows: 
 
1. Report the incident, in writing, to the office.  Written complaints
should be filed as soon as possible from the date the incident oc-
curred. 
2. Written complaints can also be submitted to the office, administra-
tor, or any other individual in a position of direct authority to ad-
dress the allegation. 
3. To the extent possible, but not limited to, the complainant should
provide the following information in the written complaint: 
 
         a.   Name, address, telephone or other contact information. 
         
         b.   DAA affiliation (e.g., student, employee, faculty, third party). 
 
         c.   Date of alleged violation. 
 
         d.   Location of alleged violation. 
 
         e.   Person(s), name and title, whom complainant believes to have   
               harassed or engaged in sexual misconduct against the  com –
               plainant. 
 
         f.    Description of complaint. 
 
         g.    Other relevant information —if you previously reported this 
                matter, including name and departments of all other persons 
                with whom you have discussed this matter. 
 
         h.   Signature and date. 

INVESTIGATION AND CORRECTIVE ACTION 
 
DAA shall conduct a prompt, thorough, and imperial inquiry into any
reports of sexual harassment and /or physical sexual misconduct. 
DAA will take immediate and appropriate steps to investigate or other-
wise take steps that are reasonably calculated to end any form of sexu-
al misconduct, whether or not a formal complaint has been initiated. 
 
An investigation should generally be completed within sixty days from
the date a complaint is reported.  DAA will attempt to obtain consent
from to individual filing the complaint before beginning an investiga-
tion; however, there may be instances when DAA may pursue an in-
vestigation regardless of the request of the complainant, if it deems it
necessary to maintain a safe and nondiscriminatory campus environ-
ment. 
 
The parties will be permitted  to provide witnesses, documentation, or
other evidence appropriate to substantiate their claims or defenses. 
The parties will be provided with periodic status updates during the
investigation.  Within thirty days of its completion of the investigation, 
the parties will receive concurrent notice of the outcome of the investi-
gation, as appropriate. 
 
ALTERNATIVE TO REPORTING 
 
DAA encourages victims of sexual violence to talk to somebody about
what happened, so victims can get the support they need, and  DAA
can respond appropriately.  Different employees on campus have dif-
ferent abilities to maintain a victim ’s confidentiality.  School employ-
ees may be required to report all the details of an incident (including
the identities of both the victim and alleged perpetrator) based on the
allegations.  A report to these employees (called “responsible employ-
ees”) constitutes a report to DAA and generally obligates the DAA to
investigate the incident and take appropriate steps to address the situa-
tion.
 

CONFIDENTIALITY 
 
DAA shall protect the privacy of individuals involved in a report of
sexual misconduct to the extent required by law and DAA policy  An-
yone requesting confidentiality shall be informed that complete and
total confidentiality may not be possible and that, depending on the
nature of  the alleged misconduct, some level of disclosure  may be
required, especially in situations alleging sexual violence.  Disclosure
may be made only on a need -to-know basis. 
 
RETALIATION PROHIBITED 
 
All reasonable action will be taken to prevent retaliation against the
complainant, witnesses, or anyone cooperating with the investigation. 
 
DISCIPLINARY ACTION 
 
Any member of the DAA community —-faculty, staff, administrators,
or students —-who is found to have engaged in sex discrimination, in-
cluding sexual misconduct, is subject to disciplinary action up to and
including  dismissal or expulsion.  Any administrator, supervisor, or
designated employee responsible for reporting or responding to inci-
dents of sexual misconduct who knew about such conduct and took no
action to stop it or failed to report it shall also be subject to appropriate
disciplinary action. 

SCHOOL DIRECTORY 
 
Website: www.desertadventistacademy.org 
Email: office@desertadventistacademy.org 
               
           
Principal/K -3 Grade ……….. Jimenez, Melina. ………………… Ext…..253 
 
4-8 Grade …………………. Garcilazo, Nancy ……………… Ext….254 
 
Office/Admin. Assistant. …..Fernandez, Nereida …………… Ext…..242                                                   
 
After School Care …………. Martinez, Reina ….………….… Ext….256   
                             .
Custodian ………………….. Moen, Maryann (Dolly) ……… Ext….256    
     
 
74-200 Country Club Dr. Suite #2                        Phone: 760 -779-1799 
Palm Desert, CA. 92260                                            Fax: 760 -779-0179