HHSO Handbook

At Hope High School Online, we inspire students to make better choices and become champions of their own learning  in an alternative, non-traditional school environment.

We believe that every student has the ability to learn and an inherent desire to do so. We encourage students to be intentional about planning and advocating for their education.

We want our students to develop leadership qualities and be inspired by the success of others while taking advantage of the opportunity to learn and grow everyday.

• We value our students’ individuality and our team is committed to meeting their unique educational needs. We provide structure for our students while allowing for flexibility with work schedules, family dynamics, and medical challenges, etc. In our delivery model, students can engage in course work at a time and place best suited for them while adhering to state attendance and academic requirements.  All students have tutoring services, academic interventions, and other resources made available to them.

• We foster a caring and supportive learning environment driven by the shared belief that both results and relationships matter. We promote open communication with our students and families as we work together as a team. Our priority is encouraging and motivating students to develop effective study skills and grow in knowledge and confidence. We guide each student on their pathway of education with an individualized graduation plan.

• We appreciate the opportunities to learn, which take place beyond the boundaries of academics. We live by the proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child”. This is why we work collaboratively to provide students with lifelong tools to build their confidence. We believe doing for others acts as its own positive reinforcement and develops well-rounded individuals. Challenging the stereotype of online schools, we provide various possibilities for students to interact with their community as well as other students. Some examples include our student trips, school hangouts and student/staff participation in various volunteer opportunities within the community.

• We aspire to teach students to grow their talents and intelligence by embracing challenges, appreciating mistakes, recognizing effort as the path to mastery, and committing to the process of continuous improvement. We begin with a sincere interest and confidence in the ability to develop the potential that exists in each and every person. We do not see our school only as an avenue for achievement and obtaining a diploma, but also as a conduit for development that results from putting forth the very best effort. 

ELA

Math

Science

Social Studies

Foreign Language

Electives

*Please check the website for course descriptions and course availability.

*** Testing schedules are subject to change depending on state assessment requirements.***

HHSO facilitates and administers a variety of assessments each school year.  Below is a brief description of each type of assessment:

1. State Assessments: Any state-mandated test will be in accordance with state regulations and guidelines.   All students are required to participate in state testing; failure to participate may result in withdrawal from Hope High School Online. 

ACT Aspire - 9th grade

ACT and AzSCI - 11th grade

The ACT assessment can be used to meet college entrance requirements. Taking the ACT outside of the ACT state assessment does not satisfy Arizona state requirements. 

***State assessments are required to be proctored in person by Blueprint Education employees only. This may require travel to testing locations. While every attempt is made to establish testing sites within 1.5 hours of students’ homes, some sites might require additional travel time to and from testing locations.*** 

2. AZELLA (Arizona English Language Learner Assessment): Students who have been identified as potential or current English Language Learners. The AZELLA is used to determine placement and/or reassess students' English language proficiency. The results are also used to determine services for English Language Learners. The initial AZELLA assessment is completed within 30 days of an identified student’s enrollment, and the reassessment will occur in the Spring between January and March. 

3. NWEA Benchmark Assessments: Required benchmark assessments are administered by Hope High School Online staff at various times each school year. Online group proctoring is conducted via Google Meets. Students are required to schedule benchmark testing sessions with staff members when offered. The time spent taking the benchmarks counts toward the student’s weekly attendance. Since the benchmark assessments provide important data as to each student’s learning progress, it is imperative that students take the tests when scheduled. Each student’s scores are used to design personalized interventions or enrichments to support student growth. Not scheduling the assessments could result in a student’s courses being disabled and absences accruing. Failure to attend multiple benchmark tests may result in withdrawal from Hope High School Online. 

   1. 1. 1. Fall: Math, Reading, Science, Writing and English assessments are administered to students at the beginning of the school year. These tests are used to help establish a student's proficiency baseline for which subsequent assessments are measured against. 

         2. Winter:  Math, Reading, Science, Writing and English benchmarks will be administered in the middle of the school year. 

*** The results from the Fall assessments will be used to assess student needs and provide individual academic interventions if necessary. We strive to prepare all students to be ready for state assessments. The information from the Winter assessments indicates readiness and identifies possible learning gaps. *** 

3. Civics Test: A 100 question state-required test to be administered to all students virtually with a Blueprint Education employee. Students must pass this test before a diploma can be issued. 

Passing Score: 70%

Below you will find a list of resources that you will use while working on your courses:

1) Email to staff members

2) Research major news sources: (newspapers, magazines, U.S. Congress)

3) File Transfer (FTP) - transfer files between computers, in either direction

4) Research - research databases, image files, weather maps, (U.S. Weather Service, the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian)

Course websites may include links to other sites. Please note:

• Blueprint Education and Hope High School Online are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these external sites.

• You will not be tested on information from these links. They are just for extra help or more information.

• Be aware when leaving the course site and read the privacy statements of any website that collects personal information. 

Students/Parents/Guardians will:

• Always obey copyright and personal property laws.

• Have good manners and use appropriate language.

• Ask for help when needed.

• Use the computer in ways that show consideration and respect.

• Notify a teacher or other adult if you come across any inappropriate material. 

Students/Parents/Guardians will NOT:

• Invade or compromise another person's privacy or files.

• Knowingly post or forward any information that is not true.

• Participate in Cyber Bullying. 

• Disrupt the intended use of the Internet.

• Seek to gain unauthorized access to the resources of the Internet.

• Use a computer to harm other people.

• Install software on school computers unless directed by a teacher to do so.

• Use a computer for illegal purposes.

• Copy copyrighted software.

• Encrypt communication so as to avoid security review.

• Destroy the integrity of computer-based information or operating systems.

• Use the system to access, store or distribute inappropriate material.

• Use someone else's account or passwords, nor share your password or account with anyone else.

• Use offensive or inflammatory speech or written text.

• Be destructive of technological property.

• Employ the network for commercial purposes.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed herein by the author of the curriculum content do not necessarily express, state, or reflect the opinion of Blueprint Education and Hope High School Online or its employees.

Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure responsible use. Teachers may monitor internet use by checking the websites students visit to ensure they use the Internet for academic purposes.  Students and parents should not expect that files stored on Blueprint Education servers are private. Communication, web pages, and email are often public in nature. Families are responsible for guiding appropriate Internet behavior in independent study. 

Hope High School Online strives to provide error-free Internet access but is not liable for any lost, damaged, or unavailable information due to technical issues. 

Welcome to Hope High School Online! We are thrilled you have decided to pursue your educational journey with us. Before you begin, we would like you to know that we are committed to your success. Equally, we trust that you are committed to your education. We uphold this mutual commitment with the following standards:

We commit to provide you (students) with:

• Clear standards and communication

• Exceptional courses

• Qualified teachers

• Access to student progress and attendance

• Tutoring available by appointment

• Regular communication regarding academics and events

• 2 business days grading window

• Individualized support

• Respect

• Availability during business hours: Monday-Friday, 8am - 5pm AZ time.

• Guidance

• High standards and expectations

Our trusted commitment from you:

• To be a dedicated and motivated student

• To work online for at least 30 hours, unless otherwise noted

• To complete courses by expiration dates

• To participate and complete school work with academic integrity

• To attend in person state testing when and where it is administered

• To attend virtual benchmarking tests when they are administered 

• To show up on time for scheduled appointments including course check-ins, proctoring, tutoring, etc. 

• To communicate with your teachers and academic coaches

• To adhere to HHSO Honor Code Policy

• To adhere to all HHSO’s Policies and Procedures 

• To be responsible and respectful

• To manage your time to stay on track

• To keep your best interests in mind

• To ask questions when you do not understand a policy, procedure or course material

• To have fun learning!

Thank you parents/guardians for:

• Being Proactive

• Tracking your students progress through the learning management systems

• Supporting your student in creating and maintaining a schoolwork schedule

• Ensuring your student works online every week for the required number of hours and makes the required progress

• Processing your students' weekly attendance via our Attendance Web App

• Respectfully communicating with HHSO regarding any concerns and/or attendance issues

• Ensuring your student participates in all benchmarks and state assessments

• Providing any relevant information regarding their education

• Partnering with HHSO staff

***Please remember that HHSO is here to ensure your student receives the best education and experience possible. We work to collaborate with students and parents/guardians to have exceptional outcomes for all students.***

At HHSO, the overall success of our students is extremely important to us. Therefore, we are committed to building strong relationships between students, HHSO staff, and parents. We believe these relationships should be open, honest, professional, and positive in nature, ensuring all parties involved are actively heard and valued. 

Due to our commitment and mission to empower students of their own learning, communication will be primarily between student and academic coach/teacher. Parents will be brought into communication when other situations arise including but not limited to discipline and emergencies. 

Other reciprocal guiding principles are outlined below:

We promise to:

• Respect your privacy

• Respond to all inquiries within one business day

• Be professional in our communication

• Provide access to all staff contact information

We ask that you:

• Allow staff two business days for all assignments to be graded

• Be professional in your communications with all staff

• Give us adequate time to investigate all questions/concerns

• Keep your contact information current

We are committed to ensuring that all interactions between staff, students, and families are appropriate in nature.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT – Sexual harassment of or by any student is prohibited.  Prohibited sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.  If a student or staff member believes they have witnessed or experienced sexual harassment, they should report it to the principal or other administrator immediately so that action can be taken, per our policy, as posted on the school website at hopehighonline.org.

All course assignments must be completed prior to final grades being issued. 

Zero Policy 

Students who turn in blank or unreadable documents for assignments will be given two opportunities to correctly complete the assignment based on teacher feedback. Upon the third submission of a blank or unreadable document, students will earn a zero on the assignment. 

Module Exams

Students may get held up in a class if an exam has written answers that need to be graded by a teacher. Please plan ahead to finish these during business hours so you can avoid getting stuck nights and weekends until a teacher is able to grade the assignment. 

Semester/Final Exams

Every course contains exams (midterm, final, and/or semester exams) that must be proctored by a Hope High School Online staff member.  Students must complete these exams within 3 business days of finishing their coursework.  Students must score a 60% or greater on these exams to pass the course. Additional review will be required by the teacher to retake one of these exams. Retakes must be taken within 5 business days of the original attempt. 

Once an exam has been started, it is subject to grading. No "split" or "continued" exam sessions are allowed. Students may not use course notes, textbooks, workbooks, manuals, or electronic devices to assist them in the completion of an exam unless teacher approved. Outside calculators are not permitted during exams unless approved by the teacher. If an exam requires a calculator, it will be provided within the test or exam tools.

Students have two options for midterm/final exams. : 1) HHSO Office or 2) Online Proctoring with a HHSO staff proctor.  Your exam time is not approved until you have received a confirmation email (Please be aware, this process can take up to 24 business hours). Do not show up at your testing location before you have received this confirmation.

1. HHSO Office - Students who wish to take their final/cumulative exam in our office in Phoenix can schedule an appointment to do so.

2. Online Proctoring with a HHSO proctor - Students will need access to a computer, a working camera, microphone, ability to share their entire screen, and a second device to share their workspace for the duration of your exam. iPads are not permitted as a main testing device due to frequent technical glitches between the camera, screen sharing, and Buzz. In order for students to be proctored virtually, proctors must be able to both see and hear them the entire time.  

Automatic Course Failure: 

1. All Final/Semester exams must be taken by using one of the two proctoring options outlined in the Proctoring section. If there is evidence of cheating or misconduct established on final tests/cumulative exams, students will earn a failing grade for the course.

2. Students must complete their final/semester exam within 3 business days of finishing their coursework.  

3. No show Policy: After 3 exam no shows within the same course, an F will be issued. 

Grading Scale: All courses will consist of multiple module exams and 1-2 final/semester exams. The grading scale will vary by course, but the final exam will always count as at least 30% of the final grade.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act – IDEA CHILD FIND 

As a public education agency (PEA) Blueprint Education has an obligation through Child Find to locate, identify, and evaluate all children with suspected disabilities, aged birth through 21, who are in need of early intervention or special education services and to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE). For more information, please visit https://www.azed.gov/specialeducation/parents/az-find or contact the school. Blueprint Education, on an annual basis, creates public awareness of special education opportunities and advises parents of the rights of children with disabilities.  This includes children who are homeless, migrant children/highly mobile, and children who are wards of the state. The district will ensure that district staff and the general public are informed of: 

• The availability of special education services  

• Student rights to a free appropriate public education 

• Confidentiality protections 

• The special education referral process  

Child Study Team

Blueprint Education refers students that are struggling to make progress in the general education curriculum to the Child Study Team, as part of the district’s multi-tiered intervention system.  The Child Study Team (CST) meets to review and discuss student present levels and area(s) of concern, develop and implement an intervention plan, and monitor the student’s response to interventions.  The Child Study Team may refer a student to a multidisciplinary evaluation team for a special education education evaluation if the student does not respond to interventions and there is a suspect educational disability.  

Multidisciplinary Evaluation Process 

The evaluation process identifies the presence of possible educational disabilities and evaluates the impact of the disability on learning. A multidisciplinary team is formed to review the existing information for the student’s functional and academic performance. At the end of this review, the team determines if additional data is needed for educational decision making. Assessments are completed within sixty (60) calendar days of a parent’s informed written consent. The multidisciplinary team will review existing and new information from evaluation to determine if the student meets the criteria as a student with an educational disability and shows the need for specially designed services.  If the student is found eligible and requires specially designed instruction, the parent will be given a prior written notice (PWN) with an Initial Placement Form. Once the team receives the parents signed consent on the Initial Placement form the team will proceed with implementing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). If a student is found to have a disability but does not require specially designed instruction the team can consider a Section 504 Plan. 

Individualized Education Plan (IEP)  

The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is both a process and a written document whereby teams develop a written plan for a student with disabilities, monitor the student’s educational progress, and make needed changes in the student’s program as circumstances change. An IEP must be based on the individual needs of the student, must enable the student to receive educational benefit, and must meet state educational standards.  Blueprint Education shall ensure that an IEP is developed, implemented, and reviewed anually for each eligible child served by the district and for each eligible child placed in or referred to a private school or facility by the district.  

Special Education Services

Hope High School Online provides special education services through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The enrolling student (parent/guardian if applicable) acknowledges their responsibility to give Hope High School Online a copy of the most recent IEP during the enrollment process.

Hope High School Online requires an increased level of independence which exceeds that of the traditional school setting. Students in the online setting will work independently from home on their classes, with classroom instruction provided through video tutorials.  By signing this document, the enrolled or enrolling student (parents/guardian if applicable) who is receiving or may need special education services realizes that special education services are offered by appointment via webcam or phone, according to the least restrictive environment as determined by the IEP team. 

If the need arises for a change in special education services and/or placement, due to supportive data (e.g. Response to Intervention, attendance, participation in special education services, grades),  the IEP team may consider other placements within the continuum of services as offered by Blueprint Education District in order to best meet the student’s needs. This may include the student being placed at Hope High School’s physical campus if deemed necessary by the IEP team in order for the student to make adequate progress in the general education curriculum.  

For additional information, refer to the following documents:

IDEA Procedural Safeguards (English)

IDEA Procedural Safeguards (Spanish)

Blueprint Education’s Board Approved Special Education Policies

Welcome to ESS

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 

Additionally, Blueprint Education provides support to students who are eligible under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 according to the 504 plan developed by the team including the parent and the student.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a civil rights law designed to eliminate discrimination based on disability. Section 504 requires the provision of appropriate educational services: services that are designed to meet the individual needs of qualified students to the same extent that the needs of students without a disability are met. Essentially, Section 504 was designed to “level the playing field,” to ensure full participation by individuals with disabilities.  

To qualify under Section 504, a student must: 

• Be determined to have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities including learning and behavior,  

• have a record of having such an impairment, or

• be regarded as having such impairment.  

Section 504 ensures that a qualified child with a disability has equal access to education. The child may receive appropriate accommodations tailored to the child’s individual needs. During the process of determining evaluation, eligibility, or the implementation of your student’s Section 504 Plan, if there is a disagreement without resolution at the school level, please be advised that there is a district appeal process you can initiate.  Blueprint Education pledges that the district complies with Section 504 regulations and no discrimination based on disability is permitted. If you believe discrimination has occurred against your student, please contact your school principal or District Section 504 Coordinator. 

Refer to your Parent’s Rights and Safeguards. 

Student progress can be tracked in Buzz and/or Genius. You can expect to find current course information in reference to student progress and grades. 

• Students are typically expected to finish two courses every 6 weeks.  Students who do not finish courses by the target dates are at risk of being dropped from their course or receive a failing grade.  

• Extensions will be granted upon meeting specific criteria as determined by staff.

• Alternate course plans may be available for students as needed based on academic coach approval. 

Consequences:

• Students who do not make academic progress for 2 consecutive weeks may be considered for withdrawal.

• Students who do not complete their course by the course expiration date for the same course twice may be considered for withdrawal.

• Students who do not complete their course by their expiration date 3 separate times during the school year may be considered for withdrawal.

For a detailed outline of what is required to stay on track in their course, students should contact their teacher. HHSO will monitor academic progress and attendance to ensure students stay on track for course completion while empowering students to understand that their choices and effort directly impact their success.

As a full-time school, students are expected to complete a minimum of 11 courses per school year to stay on track for graduation. Failure to progress may result in the student being withdrawn.

Attendance is required of each student at HHSO. The minimum attendance requirement is set by the state government and /or the Arizona Department of Education. It is subject to change at any time. Failure to progress in courses or frequent absences may lead to withdrawal.

The Expectations

• Students work online in courses at least 30 hours a week, unless otherwise noted on the school calendar. Hours must have academic progress tied to them.

• Guardians must approve weekly attendance via the HHSO Attendance Web App.  For more information, visit www.hopehighonline.org/attendance. 

Consequences:

Missing Attendance Logs

• Week 1: Guardians for students who have missing attendance logs for one week will receive daily reminder emails and texts.

• Week 2: Students who have missing attendance logs for 2 weeks will receive a warning email about courses being disabled the following week.

• Week 3: Students who have missing attendance logs for 3 weeks are disabled from their courses.

• Week 4: Students who have missing attendance logs for 4 weeks will be recommended for withdrawal.

Missing Hours

• Parents/Guardians may view their students absence total at any time in the HHSO Attendance Web App.  

• Students who exceed 100 missing hours may be withdrawn.

Banked Hours

• Students who work over the required amount of attendance hours each week will accrue banked hours. This allows students to have extra time to utilize in case of emergencies or for planned days off without accruing further absences.  Students can accrue up to 60 banked hours at any given time during the school year.

For example: Jack Sparrow worked 35 hours in a week, accumulating 5 hours of banked time. The next week, Jack got sick and missed 1 day of school and was only able to meet 25 hours of attendance. Instead of gaining 5 hours of absences his banked hours were applied to his absences.

***Banked hours do not excuse inadequate progress. Students are still expected to maintain consistent and appropriate progress to complete their courses in time.***

Rejected Hours

• Attendance hours must be tied to course progress. Attendance hours will be reviewed, and if adequate progress is not made hours could be rejected. It is vital that progress is made with attendance to make sufficient progress toward graduation. 

***Documented proof of extenuating circumstances is required for consideration of waiving the consequences of missing attendance.

Please be aware that documented proof does not excuse missing hours, as all missing hours can be made up. Extenuating circumstances can include death of a family member, long term illness, etc..***

A student may be placed on a contract for one of the following reasons:

• Lack of adequate progress

• Failure to adequately respond to multiple support interventions. (re: goals and daily/weekly check-ins)

• Inadequate attendance- Repeated failure to meet the minimum attendance requirement

• Failure to take the final test/cumulative exam within 3 business days  of finishing all coursework

• Re-entry- Based on prior academic/attendance history

The following steps will be taken prior to placing a student on contract:

• Multiple unsuccessful attempts to contact the student and parent/guardian

• Teacher or academic coach goals/support interventions not met

• Given warning prior to contract

The point of contracts is to confirm HHSO’s support of students in becoming more successful in their courses, while also allowing students to confirm their commitment to HHSO. Contract parameters will be set by the HHSO team.  When a student is placed on a contract, the student and guardian will be asked to respond that they understand the terms to the assigned staff member.” The contract activates as soon as it’s sent with or without acknowledgement from student/parent. 

Students who anticipate graduating in May must have completed their courses(s) to meet graduation requirements with a final grade no later than the Friday prior to the last day of school to participate in the graduation ceremony. If the deadline is missed, grades may not be processed in time for graduation.

Hope High School Online students must meet the minimum graduation requirements for high school graduation as defined by The Arizona State Board of Education. This includes passing the Arizona Civics Test and completing the online CPR Module. If the student has a valid CPR certification card please email a picture of the front and back to your HHSO academic coach, this can be accepted in place of the online CPR module. 

Please click the link to see sample diploma plan options here.

High School diploma requirements for HHSO graduates are listed below:

• English Language Arts: 4 credits 

• Mathematics: 4 credits (Covering Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II)

• Social Studies: 3 credits (Covering World History/Geography, US/AZ History, US/AZ Government, and Economics)

• Science: 3 credits (Including Earth/Space, Life, and Physical Science concepts)

• Electives: 8 credits (Including 1.0 credit of Fine Art/CTE, 0.5 Credit of Technology or Workplace Readiness, and 0.5 credit of Health Education)

**Students wishing to attend a 4 year university should speak with their academic coach to ensure necessary entrance requirements are met.

25% Diploma Rule

- Pursuant to A.A.C.R7-2-302, R7-2-302.01, and R7-2-302.02, Hope High School Online will grant a high school diploma to students who complete the minimum approved Arizona State Department of Education requirements..

- In accordance with Cognia Distance Learning policies, 25% percent of the course curricular requirements shall be completed with Hope High School Online or another Blueprint Education Cognia Accredited School.

- Any exceptions to the 25% Policy must be approved by the principal or his/her designee and the Blueprint Leadership Team. Please be aware that if your exception is approved, Hope High School Online will not grant a diploma to students who take fewer than the equivalent of one semester. (i.e. 6 courses) It is the intention of HHSO to fully understand the academic merits of all students in which the school grants a diploma. This minimum course completion requirement enforces the academic integrity of the school.

A summer break (June and July) is reserved for those students who have completed their current courses. However, students are more than welcome to work through the summer to catch up or move ahead in their academic plan. 

Extensions on Courses: 

Students wishing to earn an extension are required to fill out an extension form that has to be approved by a staff member. However,  the requirements outlined below must be met.  Be advised, multiple extensions can prolong progress towards graduation.

• 70% progress completed in your course.

• Passing the course and no missing assignments. 

• Extension request is submitted within the allotted window (Up to 5 days prior to your expiration) 

• 1 extension is allotted for each semester. (Up to 2 additional extensions per semester may be earned) 

• Continuous communication with your teacher and/or academic coach

By submitting the extension request form students are not guaranteed an extension.

*This policy may differ for ESS/504 students.

Honor Code Commitment

Hope High School Online expects a high degree of honesty, integrity, and personal responsibility in all academic work. Course activities are designed to support learning and prepare students for assessments. Unless otherwise specified, all submitted work must reflect each student’s own thinking and understanding.

Students are expected to:

• Complete assignments independently unless collaboration is explicitly permitted

• Use their own words, ideas, and reasoning in all submitted work

• Properly cite any information, ideas, or language taken from another source

• Ask for clarification when unsure about expectations

Students may discuss course content with others (e.g., tutoring or peer support), but all submitted work must be original and reflect their individual learning.

Academic Integrity and Use of Tools

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to:

• Copying or paraphrasing content without proper citation

• Submitting work created by another person

• Paying for or obtaining completed work from others

• Reusing prior work (your own or another student’s) without permission and citation

• Knowingly providing false, fabricated, or misleading information

• Using tools (including AI, translation tools, or other technologies) in ways that replace or misrepresent your own thinking

These expectations apply to all formats of student work, including written responses, audio, video, multimedia, and AI-generated content.  Students are required to access and complete all coursework using the school-approved Google Chrome browser, unless otherwise directed by school staff. Our staff utilize available technology to support academic integrity and monitor student engagement within this environment. Work completed outside of the approved browser may limit our ability to verify student engagement and authorship. In situations where this occurs—particularly when combined with other indicators of concern—it may be reviewed as a potential Honor Code violation. 

Use of Digital Tools and Artificial Intelligence

The use of digital tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), is permitted only when it supports a student’s learning and is consistent with teacher direction and assignment expectations.

Students are prohibited from using any tool, technology, or automated system—including but not limited to AI platforms, bots, scripts, translation tools, or third-party services—to generate, complete, or submit coursework in place of their own thinking, effort, and understanding. Such use is strictly prohibited.

Any use of such tools that:

• replaces or substantially completes required student work,

• circumvents the intended learning process, or

• is not explicitly authorized and properly disclosed

will be considered a violation of the Honor Code.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• using AI or automated systems to complete assignments, assessments, or entire courses;

• employing bots, scripts, or external services to progress through coursework;

• submitting work that is not a product of the student’s own intellectual effort.

The school reserves the right to determine, based on available evidence and professional judgment, whether submitted work reflects a student’s independent effort and meets Honor Code expectations.

Violations may result in disciplinary action up to and including course failure, removal from active coursework, or withdrawal/expulsion from the school, in accordance with Honor Code procedures.

Guidelines for Research and Citation

When completing research-based assignments:

• Take notes in your own words

• Use quotation marks for any directly copied language

• Cite all sources appropriately

• Do not copy and paste content without citation

Examples of academic dishonesty include (but are not limited to):

• Copying text without quotation marks and citation

• Reordering or slightly modifying source text without citation

• Copying phrases or sentences from a source without citation

• Paraphrasing ideas without citation

• Using ideas from conversations, media, or other sources without attribution

• Translating content from another language without citation

Students are encouraged to use trusted citation resources such as:

• Purdue OWL

Artificial Intelligence (AI) at HHSO

At Hope High School Online, we recognize that artificial intelligence is transforming how people learn, work, and communicate. As an online school, we are committed to helping students use these tools responsibly, ethically, and effectively.

AI tools (such as ChatGPT and similar platforms) can support learning when used appropriately—but they also present challenges related to accuracy, authorship, and academic integrity.

Core Principles for AI Use

Our approach to AI is guided by two key principles:

1. Cognitive Integrity
AI should support your thinking—not replace it. Students are expected to actively engage in learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

2. Ethical Transparency
Any use of AI must be clearly communicated and must align with academic integrity expectations.

Appropriate Use of AI

Unless otherwise directed by a teacher, students may use AI tools for:

• Brainstorming ideas

• Exploring topics or concepts

• Receiving explanations or examples

• Outlining or organizing thoughts

• Revising or editing their own writing

• Checking grammar, clarity, or structure

Conditional Use of AI (Must Be Disclosed)

Students may use AI to support portions of their work only if explicitly allowed and must clearly acknowledge this use, including:

• Generating ideas or partial drafts

• Receiving feedback that influences their final submission

• Using AI-generated content as a starting point for revision

Prohibited Use of AI

The following uses of AI are not allowed:

• Submitting AI-generated work as your own without acknowledgment

• Using AI to complete assignments in place of your own thinking

• Using AI in ways that bypass the intended learning of an assignment

• Using AI or other tools to complete substantial portions of coursework or entire courses

• Entering full assignment prompts into AI tools when not permitted by the teacher

Acknowledging AI Use

Students must clearly identify any AI use in their work. This may include:

• A brief statement describing how AI was used

• Annotations or notes explaining AI-supported sections

• Documentation of revisions (e.g., draft history or track changes)

Teachers may provide specific expectations for how AI use should be documented for each assignment.

Any work not identified as AI-assisted will be assumed to be fully the student’s original work.

Understanding the Limits of AI

Students should be aware that AI tools:

• May provide inaccurate or misleading information

• May reflect bias present in their training data

• Do not “think” or reason like humans

• May produce generic or impersonal writing

Students are responsible for:

• Verifying information from reliable sources

• Applying critical thinking and judgment

• Ensuring their work reflects their own voice and understanding

Privacy and Responsible Use

Students should not enter personal, sensitive, or confidential information into AI tools.

Use of AI platforms should follow school expectations for digital citizenship and responsible technology use.

When in Doubt

If you are unsure whether AI use is appropriate for an assignment, ask your teacher before submitting your work.

Consequences for Honor Code Violations

Violations of the Honor Code may result in one or more of the following:

• Assignment reset: as a warning, the assignment will be reset and the student must complete the assignment before moving forward

• Assignment failure: the student may fail the assignment

• Honor Code Violation course assignment: an Honor Code Violation (HCV) module will be added to your current course and must be completed in order to make further progress in the course

• Required parent-teacher meeting: courses may be disabled until a meeting is held (administration may be included based on severity)

• Course failure

• Withdrawal or expulsion (in cases of repeated or severe violations)

Consequences are determined based on:

• The nature and severity of the violation

• Student intent

• Prior violations

Students acknowledge and agree to the Honor Code at the start of each course.

HHSO challenges our students to develop their digital citizenship skills based on ISTE’s 5 core competencies.

Inclusive:

Be open to hearing and respectfully recognizing multiple viewpoints, and engage with others online with respect and empathy. Engaging with staff and students online should be respectful, always seeking to understand one another. 

Informed:

Evaluate the accuracy, perspective, and validity of digital media and social posts. Ensure that the information you report is accurate and from reliable sources. 

Engaged:

Use technology and digital channels for civic engagement, to solve problems and be a force for good in both physical and virtual communities.

Balanced:

Make informed decisions about how to prioritize time and activities online and off. Make sure to schedule breaks when working through courses. Developing a daily schedule is encouraged and creates balance while ensuring productivity and progress toward graduation.

Alert:

Be aware of online actions, and know how to be safe and create safe spaces for others online. Always be vigilant about online safety. Ensure that communication is appropriate and reported to a staff member immediately should there be inappropriate communication.

Hope High School Online is committed to ensuring every student’s right to be educated in a safe, positive, caring, and respectful environment by enforcing an anti-bullying policy. To assist in creating this environment and enable students’ use of technology in a safe and responsible manner, bullying, harassment or intimidation as defined by this policy will not be tolerated.

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using technology. This includes, but is not limited to, using phones, computers, or other electronic devices to send, post, or share messages or content that harm, threaten, or target another person.  It may occur through text messages, phone calls, social media, online forums, email, or other digital platforms. It can take place on school or personal devices, and on or off school property.

Examples of Cyberbullying

Posting comments, messages, photos or screenshots that are mean, threatening, untrue, personal, secret or embarrassing anonymous messages or abuse (on social networks or online gaming), filming or taking photos of someone without their knowledge and/or consent; this includes sharing photos or videos ‘Indirect’ messages or comments where an individual is not directly named, but their identity is insinuated, fake accounts or profiles excluding people from online conversations or doxing over online gaming messages that encourage self harm or suicide harassment based on race, gender, sexual preference, financial status, etc.

For more information on cyberbullying go to the US Government bullying website:

https://www.stopbullying.gov/cyberbullying/what-is-it/index.html

Reporting

Students and parents are encouraged to immediately report bullying or harassment to the student's academic coach.

School officials are required to follow procedures to investigate a student bullying claim and resolve the incidents with appropriate sanctions.

Preventions

Hope High School Online integrates cyberbullying prevention into relevant policies and practices, ensures reporting routes are accessible and visible, and promotes the positive use of technology. 

Students and parents are prohibited from bullying on school property, at school sponsored events and activities and through the use of electronic technology including but not limited to electronic communication equipment, on school or personal computers, school or social networks, forums, telephone or mailings.

Staff at Hope High School Online undergo training which includes understanding, preventing, and responding to cyberbullying.

Discipline

Due to the behaviors occurring through digital devices, the act of cyberbullying may not be recognizable because teachers and/or parents may not have the ability to overhear or see the act take place. Since Hope High School Online is based in an electronic setting, the identity of the offender could be unknown, school officials will initiate steps to identify the person responsible. These can include but are not limited to investigating all school systems and computer logs, identifying and interviewing possible witnesses, and with police involvement, obtaining user information from the internet service provider. Disciplinary action may result from cyberbullying which occurs outside of the school parameters. All suspected violations of law will be reported to local law enforcement. For more information on Arizona’s bullying laws (which include cyberbullying) please visit:

https://www.stopbullying.gov/laws/arizona/index.html

Unintended consequences

With shared content via digital forums, the subject matter becomes public and may be permanent, if not reported and removed. This content may be available and viewed by strangers and others who are not the victims of the cyberbullying act. This can create a type of permanent record, also known as “online reputation”, which can be accessible to schools, employers, and others researching an individual now or in the future. Cyberbullying can also be very harmful not only to the victim of bullying but the individual participating in the act.

Hope High School Online offers a wide variety of activities through various online and in person events throughout the year. 

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @hhsotigers for upcoming events!

         College Tours

 Join HHSO with VIP in tours of various colleges and trade schools. Including, but not limited to, ASU, NAU, UofA, and Maricopa Community Colleges.

Prom

Partake in a night to remember! HHSO joins our sister school, Hope High School, in creating a once in a lifetime experience that allows students to dress up, take unlimited photos in our photobooth, eat and drink light refreshments, and dance the night away!

VIP

The VIP Program — standing for Value, Independence, and Purpose — is a student development initiative designed to help young people create meaningful, self-directed lives.

Throughout the school year, VIP hosts weekly events that are free of charge and include a complimentary lunch. These events are open to all Hope High Online students in good standing and provide opportunities for growth, connection, and discovery.

Program Experiences Include:

• Workshops & Retreats – Hands-on sessions that inspire self-awareness, leadership, and goal setting.

• Community Service – Projects that build empathy, teamwork, and civic responsibility.

• Cultural Outings – Experiences that broaden perspectives and celebrate diversity.

Team-Building Activities – Interactive challenges that strengthen communication and trust.  

For more information check out our VIP homepage: https://vip.blueprinteducation.org/. To participate, students must be up to date with their attendance hours and academic progress. 

As part of the journey here at Hope High School Online, we want to ensure our students gain the understanding and necessary resources that will help guide them in their life after high school. Thus, preparing our students for their future career and educational goals, students will be completing an Education and Career Action Plan (ECAP).  

An ECAP reflects a student’s current plan of coursework, career aspirations, and extended learning opportunities in order to develop individual academic and career goals. By following a series of assessments and activities geared to provide additional support to meet their individual needs, students will be able to better understand themselves and their postsecondary goals.

Hope High School Online uses Major Clarity to assist students with developing their ECAP.Through this, students will gain access to various resources that will guide them in their future. This process is outlined on our Student Portal with step by step directions as to how to navigate each assessment and activity. Upon enrollment, each student will be given directions as to how to begin their ECAP. Throughout the student’s time here at HHSO, the Academic Coaches and the School Counselor will be working one-on-one with students to help develop individualized plans for after high school. Therefore, the ECAP will be utilized consistently to ensure students are given any information or resources necessary to make their future goals come alive.

Whether a student wishes to Enlist, Employ, Enroll or Explore, we have what you need to plan! Check out our College & Career Center for more interactive tools. For more information or to get started on your ECAP, please start HERE. 

Hope High School Online offers students the chance to earn credits towards a college degree or a trade school, as well as earning credit for their high school diploma. Junior and Senior students can do this by either enrolling in a nearby community college, or applying for a program to earn a certificate in a specific trade from various schools such as West-MEC, EVIT, JTED, CAVIT, and others.

These additional classes and programs enable students to:

• Earn college and high school credit simultaneously

• Save money on college tuition

• Reduce college completion time

• Eliminate coursework during their freshman year of college

• Graduate High School with potential Certificate or Degree

If a student is interested, they must first speak to their academic coach to verify eligibility.

Academic coach contact information can be found under "Mentor Information" on the Genius homepage.

1. Refer to the automated “Enrollment Confirmation” email you received with your account information and follow the link to Genius. 

2. Enter your given username and password.

3. Once you are in Genius, you will locate the section titled “Academic Snapshot” and click on a course to be taken to Buzz to access course content.

If you still have questions, please contact the office at 602-674-5555 to speak with your academic coach. 

Academic Coach: Contact your academic coach with questions regarding your graduation plan, attendance, events, final exam scheduling, your plans after high school and other general questions about Hope High School Online.  You can find academic coach contact information in Genius under “Mentor Information” on the left side of the page.

Teacher: Contact your teacher with questions specifically related to the course; such as final exam scheduling, quiz/test retakes, study tips/guides, tutoring requests, and content questions. You can find teacher contact information by selecting the course in buzz.

Non-Academic Student Support Specialist: Contact our our non-academic student support specialist for support with staying organized, managing your time, preparing for exams, and building strong learning habits. They are here to help you stay on track and be successful in your courses.  You can connect with a non-academic student support specialist by reaching out to your teacher or coach. 

McKinney Vento Liaison: Contact Caitlin Ozment at caitlino@blueprinteducation.org or 602-906-4878 if a student is or at risk of homelessness. For more information regarding McKinney Vento eligibility & services please see: https://www.azed.gov/homeless/parents-guardians-and-youth

For more details on who to contact and where to locate each staff, please refer to this embedded link HERE

Hope High School Online, an Arizona charter high school, supports the early child education program called Child Find. Hope High School Online will provide information regarding the availability of early intervention services and special education services for children age birth to 21, including children enrolled in private and home schools. If you are aware of a pre school age child who needs early education evaluation or services, ask them to call the school office at 800.426.4952 for referral information. We are committed to early intervention for children in need and welcome the opportunity to facilitate this process. To read more, see the Arizona Department of Education website address:  https://www.azed.gov/specialeducation/parents/az-find/ 

Homeless Students

RIGHTS OF HOMELESS STUDENTS 

Hope High School Online shall provide an educational environment that treats all students with dignity and respect. Every homeless student shall have access to the same free and appropriate educational opportunities as students who are not homeless. This commitment to the educational rights of homeless children, youth, and unaccompanied youth, are applied to all services, programs, and activities provided. A student may be considered eligible for services as a "Homeless Child or Youth" under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act if he or she is presently living: 

• In a shelter, temporary shared housing, or transitional living program 

• In a hotel/motel, campground, or similar situation due to lack of alternatives At a bus station, park, car, or abandoned building 

• In temporary or transitional foster care placement 

According to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Act, eligible students have rights to: Immediate enrollment: Documentation and immunization records cannot serve as a barrier to the enrollment in school. 

School Selection: McKinney-Vento eligible students have a right to select from the following schools: 

• The school he/she attended when permanently housed (School of Origin) The school in which he/she was last enrolled (School of Origin) 

• The school in the attendance area in which the student currently resides (School of Residency) 

• Remain enrolled in his/her selected school for the duration of homelessness, or until the academic year upon which they are permanently housed. 

• Participate in programs for which they are eligible. including Title I, National School Lunch Program, Head Start, Even Start, etc.

• Transportation Services: A McKinney-Vento eligible student attending his/her School of Origin has a right to transportation to and from the School of Origin. 

Dispute Resolution: If you disagree with school officials about enrollment, transportation, or fair treatment of a homeless child or youth, you may file a complaint with the school district. The school district must respond and attempt to resolve it quickly. During the dispute, the student must be immediately enrolled in the school and provided transportation until the matter is resolved. The Homeless Liaison will assist you in making a decision, providing notice of any appeal process and filling out dispute forms. 

For more information, refer to http://www.azed.gov/schooleffectiveness/specialpops/ or contact: 

Caitlin Ozment

Homeless Liaison 

Hope High School Online 

(602) 674-5555 

www.HopeHighOnline.org 

caitlino@blueprinteducation.org 

Rita Rodriguez

State Homeless Education Program Coordinator

Arizona Department of Education

(602) 542-4963 

homeless@azed.gov 

FERPA and Student Records

ANNUAL NOTIFICATION TO PARENTS REGARDING CONFIDENTIALITY OF SPECIAL EDUCATION RECORDS 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's educational records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are "eligible students." 

Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student's educational records maintained by the school within 45 days of a request made to the school administrator Schools are not required to provide copies of records unless it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records without copies. Schools may charge a fee for copies. 

Parents or eligible students have the right to request in writing that a school correct records that they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his or her view about the contested information. 

Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in order to release any information from a student's educational record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions: 

School officials with legitimate educational interest: 

1. A school official is a person employed or contracted by the school to serve as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including health staff, law enforcement personnel, attorney, auditor, or other similar roles); a person serving on the school board; or a parent or student serving on an official committee or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks; 

2. A legitimate educational interest means the review of records is necessary to fulfill a professional responsibility for the school: 

- Other schools to which a student is seeking to enroll 

- Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes 

- Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student 

- Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school - Accrediting organizations 

- To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena 

- Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies 

- State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State law 

Schools may disclose, without consent, "directory" information such as a student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, sports participation (including height and weight of athletes) and dates of attendance unless notified by the parents or eligible student that the school is not to disclose the information without consent. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that protects the rights of students with disabilities. In addition to standard school records, for children with disabilities education records could include evaluation and testing materials, medical and health information, Individualized Education Programs and related notices and consents, progress reports, materials related to disciplinary actions, and mediation agreements. Such information is gathered from a number of sources, including the student's parents and staff of the school of attendance. Also, with parental permission, information may be gathered from additional pertinent sources, such as doctors and other health care providers. This information is collected to assure the child is identified, evaluated, and provided a Free Appropriate Public Education in accordance with state and federal special education laws. Each agency participating under Part B of IDEA must assure that at all stages of gathering, storing, retaining and disclosing education records to third parties that it complies with the federal confidentiality laws. In addition, the destruction of any education records of a child with a disability must be in accordance with IDEA regulatory requirements. 

For additional Information or to file a complaint, you may call the federal government at (202) 260-3887 (voice) or 1-800-877-8339 (TDD) OR the Arizona Department of Education (ADE/ESS) at (602) 542-4013. Or you may contact: 

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 

400 Maryland Avenue SW 

Washington, D.C. 20202-5901 

Arizona Department of Education 

Exceptional Student Services 

1535 W Jefferson. BIN 24 

Phoenix, AZ 85007