Res Novae Academy
A Hybrid Micro School enrichment program for non-public students in Grades K-8.
Parent and Student
Membership Handbook and Contract
Welcome to Res Novae Academy
It truly takes a village to raise a child, and we are thankful for the opportunity to serve your family. You have made an important decision for your child’s education. We are eager to build on the success of our school and have designed a Parent and Student Handbook to guide you and your child through this exciting time. We encourage you to read all sections of this booklet thoroughly and discuss with your child (where applicable).
Quality education prepares our students for a fulfilling future, and at Res Novae Academy, we believe students can authentically live and learn FULLY while also enjoying a beautiful childhood. We believe students learn best when they feel safe, happy, and enjoy the process of learning. We are pleased to offer this type of learning environment and experience for your child.
The Res Novae Academy Handbook contains important information regarding our enrichment center, instructional design, and specific policies that help maintain the integrity and joy of our learning environment. At Res Novae Academy, we recognize that educating children requires a team effort, and we look forward to joining you in the vital pursuit. While working together, we can exceed our shared vision of excellence in education. It’s a beautiful experience to see important people in your child’s life working together for their good.
Together, we can help our children shine their light as the best version of themselves while contributing to the success of others around him/her. Thank you for choosing Res Novae Academy and for allowing us to educate one of our world’s most prized possessions - your child.
Best Regards,
Jennifer Ludy
Director, Owner
Res Novae Academy Vision, Mission, and Beliefs
Vision Statement
At Res Novae Academy, we envision a dynamic learning environment where students are inspired to explore, question, and discover the love of learning. Our commitment is to an inquiry & project-based, Charlotte Mason philosophy, that fosters a holistic education that integrates rigorous academics, critical thinking, and character development.
We strive to cultivate a community rooted in Christian values, conservative principles, and libertarian ideals, empowering students to become compassionate, independent thinkers who contribute positively to their communities and the world. By providing a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, we aim to instill a lifelong love of learning and a deep respect for knowledge, creativity, and individual sovereignty.
Our vision is to create a space where homeschool families and those seeking a non-public school education can thrive, ensuring each student is prepared to face the future with confidence, integrity, and a sense of purpose. Together, we embrace the journey of education, fostering growth, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference.
Mission Statement
Res Novae Academy is dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience through an inquiry-based Charlotte Mason approach. Our mission is to nurture and inspire students by:
Admission Standards:
Our admissions standards reflect our commitment to serving as a partner with families and the local community in the education of our students. We ask that the following admissions standards be met by our students and their families:
Leadership | Teacher Assistant | Volunteers
Jennifer Ludy
Owner/Director
205-306-9214
Direct Text Line: 205-418-8314
Additional Teachers and Volunteers To Be Determined
On-site Schedule For Part-Time Students
K-2 Monday & Wednesday, 9:15-12:00. Arrival begins at 9:00, doors lock at 9:15. Dismissal is at 11:45, late fees apply if not picked up by 12:00.
3-5 Monday & Wednesday, 1:15-4:00, Arrival begins at 1:00, doors lock at 1:15. Dismissal is at 3:45, late fees apply if not picked up by 4:00.
6-8 Tuesday & Thursday, 1:15-4:00. Arrival begins at 1:00, doors lock at 1:15. Dismissal is at 3:45, late fees apply if not picked up by 4:00.
Tuesday: Park Day 10-12 - Open to all homeschool families. No registration required. Parents must remain on site at all times. This is not a school sponsored program and thus Res Novae Academy does not provide any oversight or monitoring of children in any capacity. Staff may or may not be present.
Thursday: 9:15-12:00 - Homeschool Parents morning out program. Drop your homeschool aged student off between the hours of 9:15-12:00 and let them complete assignments or just hangout while you’re running errands. The fee is $99 per monthly membership fee. Or a one time drop & go (space permitting) fee of $50. This is a recurring monthly membership fee and is not included in tuition. Doors open at 9:00 and student pick up must be done by 12:00 to avoid a late fee of $25. Membership fee is not based on attendance and no refunds nor deductions will be made for not using this service. When you pay, you are reserving a space for your child.
Calendar of Events:
The school will be closed for all major holidays as well as state and local holidays. There are local community events that will necessitate closure of the school. Res Novae Academy will do its best to communicate any delays or closures.
Res Novae Academy will make every effort to assemble a calendar annually and communicate any additional dates and times that have an impact on the in-person schedules.
Financial Commitment:
(Student Tuition, Curriculum Costs and Handbook/Contract):
Specialized education involves financial sacrifice for many families. Res Novae Academy works hard to plan effectively while also controlling tuition costs and keeping up with the standard cost of living and inflation rates. It is essential that families meet their obligations to Res Novae Academy in a timely manner in order to maintain financial stability for our school and those who are employed by Res Novae Academy.
Full-Time Tuition Payment: Not Applicable
Part-Time Tuition Payment: $2,490 per year per student or 10 payments of $249.00.
Handbook/Contract Signature Page Due: Within 5 Days of Enrollment and Acceptance
Deposit: $450 Enrollment Fee is due within 5 days of enrollment or acceptance into Res Novae Academy.
Monthly Tuition: Monthly Tuition is due in FULL the 25th of the month.
Each tuition payment will be invoiced through automatic payments. This is for documentation and organizational purposes.
Late fee for tuition and other unpaid balances: 10% starting the 30th day of the month. 15% fee starting the 5th day of the month and will accumulate at 15% per month on all unpaid balances until paid in full..
Refunds: Enrollment fees, Tuition & Other fees: Once paid, there are no refunds for any reason.
Withdrawals & Dismissals: In the event you withdraw your student or your student is dismissed, full tuition is due and payable. We do not pro-rate, cancel or refund tuition due to non-attendance, dismissals, cancellations or withdrawals.
Past Due Accounts: Accounts that are past due will have collections filed in a court of jurisdiction in Jefferson County, AL. We will seek to collect: All past due fees including but not limited to tuition, late fees, attorneys fees and court fees.
No students will be able to return to class who have accounts 30 days or more past due.
Student Confidentiality
All student information is protected by the Family Educational Rights to Privacy Act for the purpose of protecting student confidentiality. Res Novae Academy is dedicated to complying with all confidentiality laws protecting the privacy of their students and their families. Information regarding a student’s progress will be shared only with parents and guardians, appropriate members of Res Novae Academy faculty and staff, and any professional consultants retained for the purpose of measuring and/or improving instructional quality.
Quality Assurance – Handling Complaints
Our vision is to provide a high-quality, safe, and friendly environment for all children. In order to meet that vision, and to help us grow, we need your involvement and feedback. We take your concerns and feedback very seriously and make every effort to address issues within our school. Experience has demonstrated that open communication between parents and the staff is the key to maintaining a stable business relationship. Please do not hesitate to talk to us and speak with [Director/Teacher] regarding any concerns or problems.
Parent Involvement and Communications
Volunteering
Parents are encouraged to participate in school-related activities, including those pertaining to curriculum and instruction, being a guest speaker, and using your gifts/talents to add a wonderful dynamic to our school environment. If any activity occurs that is not in keeping with Res Novae Academy policies or standards, Res Novae Academy reserves the right to relieve the volunteer of his/her responsibilities.
School Supplies/ Curriculum /Daily Supplies
All curriculum, textbooks and materials will be purchased by each family. This includes, but is not limited to: folders, binders, paper, pencils, etc.
Student Arrival/Dismissal
We want to ensure our Res Novae Academy students arrive and leave safely each day!
Parents are to walk their student into the learning center each day and pick them up from inside the learning center each day. Students are not permitted to leave the center without a parent.
Inclement Weather: We will always be on the side of caution when it comes to bad weather days. Your family is safest at home, not on the roads traveling to/from or attending classes. We will look to Jefferson County school district first and foremost, but will use our best judgment to determine if classes are held when inclement weather is anticipated. There are no make up days nor refunds for closures due to inclement weather days.
Please do not drop your child off at Res Novae Academy prior to aforementioned times as there is no guaranteed supervision at this time. Please arrive by the aforementioned time to pick your child up from school in order to avoid a late fee of $25. Being on time is a significant contributor to the satisfaction of all of our teachers and the happiness of our children. We understand emergencies arise, so please communicate if there is a potential issue with picking your child up on time. Anyone picking up a child, who is not on the child’s Student Information Form, will need to be approved through the written authorization or a direct phone call from the parent/ guardian before the child may leave Res Novae Academy. Any adult, other than the parent, who is picking up a student must be prepared to show identification and give the code indicated on the Student Information Form located on the last page of this handbook.
Technology
Res Novae Academy will utilize technology for learning activities. There are multiple learning platforms that will be used to engage students in learning. Students who bring their own device: Res Novae Academy is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged devices. Students must bring his/her own headphones to school. Students are not allowed to bring cell phones to school. Parents/students must sign an internet usage waiver.
Internet Policy
When students are utilizing technology at our facilities (whether our devices or their own), it is strictly forbidden to access or share any of the following (including, but not limited to):
It is further understood we do take precautions, so children do not get exposed to inappropriate content. However, it is not possible to 100% safeguard against the potential for something happening.
Student Dress Code Policy
Students in Res Novae Academy are not required to wear a uniform. Instead, we ask that each student dress in a way that does not distract or deter learning. Students are asked to wear closed-toe shoes each day. Not allowed: Any clothing or accessories that promote any social, political or activist agendas. All students should dress modestly. It is requested that students wear shorts or pant (jeans) and a collared shirt.
Homework/Portfolio
As part of our school model, students will inherently have work to do at home. The instruction received at our center is not sufficient to complete a course of study. You, as a parent/guardian, agree when you join Res Novae Academy, that you will ensure the student receives sufficient direction and instruction while at home for all work assigned.
Breakfast and Lunch
Res Novae Academy does not provide meals or snacks for students. Students are advised to refrain from bringing and sharing food with other students. Sugary drinks are not permitted at Res Novae Academy. We have a water only policy for students. Any drink container from home should be properly labeled with the students name.
Student Progress Reports/ Assessment/ Evaluation/Reporting:
For academy enrolled students: Res Novae Academy will send home a progress report by February 15 (for classes attended September through December) and June 15 (for classes attended January through end of school year) to showcase students' progress and mastery of learning skills/topics taught in class.
Assessments/Evaluation/Grading: We will utilize the following assessment rubric (can be located in the back of this handbook):
Portfolio reporting from parents are due: January 15 and May 15 for each student.
We believe there is substantial evidence of mastery and growth through the small class size, parent and teacher connection, and child attributions and will be documented/showcased in the child’s portfolio and progress report. Teachers will use meaningful feedback to improve a child’s learning path. Some students are strong with spoken words while others prefer to write. Some see the world through the eyes of an artist while others may be more technical. Some prefer to learn by themselves while others like to work in groups. Res Novae Academy believes education should not be standardized or cookie-cutter, but rather; authentic, engaging, and personalized.
Parents and Teachers employ a variety of strategies to assess student learning on a continuous basis. These strategies include observation of students as they work, conversations with students about what they are learning and doing, analysis of student products and performances, and the administration of quizzes and tests. We collect information for two main purposes:
Res Novae Academy doesn’t administer high-stakes standardized testing, instead, we believe in play, creativity, authentic community, and organic student development. The state of Alabama does not require non-public school education programs to have a standardized assessment for students.
Field Trips or Special Programs
In recognition of the educational value possible from well-planned travel, it is the intent of Res Novae Academy to encourage the participation of our students in worthwhile educational excursions.
The cost of field trips and other educational events are not included in tuition. Field trips will typically be paid at the door by each individual family. When it is required by the venue, we will collect funds in advance to pay for the activity. Once paid, there are no refunds in the event you do not attend.
Parents are to transport their students to and from each event and will be 100% responsible for the supervision of their child. Res Novae Academy staff and volunteers are not responsible in any way for students who attend field trips.
Emergency Contacts
Parents must submit emergency contacts on the Student Information Form to ensure safety for students/children.
Health
Please keep your child at home if he/she seems restless, unusually irritable, complains of aches, is feverish, or seems to be unusually pale or flushed. It is better to be overcautious than to risk exposing the rest of the children and staff. The following is our guideline for you to follow in determining when to keep your child at home.
The child should be kept home for:
Each child responds and reacts differently to sickness, so please be advised that the staff will need to send a sick child home. If the student is at school and becomes sick, we ask parents to pick their child up as soon as possible. Children should be symptom-free for 24 hours before returning back to Res Novae Academy.
Medication
Res Novae Academy must be informed of any prescription medication that a student is required to take at school. Res Novae Academy WILL NOT administer nor allow students to self-administer any medication. If this is required, the parent must come to the school and administer. All medication must be brought to Res Novae Academy in its original prescription container, labeled with the student’s name, the name of the medication, the date of expiration, and the proper dosage.
Non-prescription medications: Res Novae Academy will not administer nor allow students to self-administer non-prescription medication. If this is a necessary requirement, parents must be on site and administer to their child.
Accidents
A teacher or trained staff member will administer initial treatments of minor injuries (ex: application of a band-aid). The student’s emergency contact will be notified immediately by phone whenever medical treatment is administered to a student. In such cases, it is especially crucial that Res Novae Academy has working phone numbers for students’ parents and for alternate contacts in the event that a parent is unavailable. Please be vigilant in keeping all information for your child up-to-date.
Safety
All members of the school community have the right to be safe and feel safe in a respectful, focused school environment. Members of the school community must not: Engage in bullying behaviors, bring anything to school that will compromise the safety of others, commit theft, robbery, or any act of vandalism that damages school property, be in possession of any weapon, use any object to threaten or intimidate another person, cause injury to another person with an object, inflict or encourage others to inflict bodily harm on another person (such as kicking, hitting, punching or pushing), engage in harassment, deliberately engage in hurtful behavior motivated by anger, bias or dislike.
Positive Character Development:
At Res Novae Academy, character development and values are a part of who we are. Res Novae Academy is committed to embracing and demonstrating character through the modeling of our core values: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, faith, and empathy. Our goal is to challenge the children and staff to believe in and act on these positive values.
We strive for a setting that provides children with opportunities to explore their environment within consistent, age-appropriate limits. In this type of atmosphere, most behavioral issues are prevented. However, if behavioral issues occur, our philosophy is to provide child guidance accomplished through a positive approach, which respects the child as an individual. It is our goal for children to learn human values, problem-solving skills and to take responsibility for their own choices.
Teachers will model and reinforce appropriate behavior and
Encouraging Verbal Problem Solving Skills
Teachers will explain to the child the inappropriate behavior and show him/her the appropriate way to handle the situation. Res Novae Academy will make every reasonable attempt to meet their educational needs; however, *behaviors that threaten others as well as blatant and repeated disrespect/defiance will not be tolerated and may result in expulsion from Res Novae Academy.
Toilet Policy
All students attending Res Novae Academy must be fully potty-trained to participate in any programs. Children using the toilet will follow guidelines for handwashing, and they will use disposable towels to dry their hands. If a child should have an accident and soils his/her clothes, a parent will be notified immediately to pick the child up.
Money and Other Valuable Property (Including Toys and Personal Items)
Students are encouraged to leave all money, toys, personal items, and other valuable property at home, especially cell phones. Res Novae Academy assumes no responsibility for lost, damaged or stolen items.
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse
In order to ensure the well-being of the children in our care, our staff has a continuing duty under state law to report incidents of possible neglect or abuse, including physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, to the Department of Children and Families and to cooperate in any investigation of such possible neglect or abuse. All staff members are mandatory reporters and must follow Alabama statutes for mandatory reporting. We do not have discretion in this matter but must make such referrals whenever we have reasonable cause to believe that a child might have been harmed by anyone, including non-family members. We may be subjected to criminal penalties if we fail to report such possible harm. Staff is not allowed to comment to parents, other staff, or any other persons on the subject of reported child abuse. Parents may not accuse or question staff concerning child abuse allegations. Child abuse investigations are a matter for Alabama.
Non-discrimination Policy
Res Novae Academy admits students of any race, sex, or national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, and other enrichment center programs.
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