FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the school day begin and end?

DCA’s school day begins at 8:30 a.m. where scholars receive breakfast and ends at 3:00 p.m. DCA does not currently provide before or aftercare.

What time does the first period begin?

First period does begin at 9:00 a.m. However, we do strongly encourage parents to arrive no later than 8:45 a.m. During this time scholars are in whole-school assembly, which is a time for the entire school to prepare for the day ahead.

When is a scholar considered late?

A scholar is considered late after 9:00 a.m. Three consecutive lateness are equal to one absent.

Can a scholar’s absence be submitted in advance?

Yes! By signing into your SchoolCues account, a scholar can be marked absent prior to the day of. Assistance is available for this.

What are the procedures for late scholar pick-up?

Parents are given a 15-minute grace period from the official dismissal time. After the 15-minute grace period, a phone call is sent to the parent informing them their child has not been picked-up. After an additional 10 minutes, a late fee notice is filed and placed on the scholar’s record.

What is the daily uniform policy?

Scholars are expected to arrive in their formal/Physical Education (P.E.) uniforms every day besides Fridays. On Fridays, scholars are able to dress down.

What do the official and P.E. uniforms consist of?

Scholars are allowed to wear black pants, joggers or jeans with their DCA school shirt for their official uniforms. For P.E. uniform, their red DCA P.E. shirts are provided, and they are allowed to wear black sweatpants or black basketball shorts. During colder months, scholars are allowed to wear outside sweaters as long as they are red. Scholars will be required to remove their coats or jackets before the official school day begins.

How do I pay my tuition?

DCA provides families various ways to pay their tuition. Electronic payments, checks, and money orders are all accepted.

Is there a grace period for tuition deadlines?

There is a 5-day grace period for all tuition fees. For all information regarding finances please reach out to our Administrative Director (AdminD).

Are there scholarships available?

Yes! There are scholarships available. Scholarships are rewarded to families on a needs basis based on income and academy commitments. More details can be given from our Administrative Director.

Are there any payment plans regarding tuition payments?

Tuition can be made in 10-, 11-, or 12-month payment plans.

What are your COVID-19 Safety procedures?

DCA follows the mandates and guidelines set out by the CDC. Scholars and staff are expected to wear masks throughout the school day besides during lunch. Scholars are given a new mask every morning from administration and required to discard it as they leave the premises. Handwashing and sanitizing is required from every scholar throughout the day.

How are the premises being cleaned during and after school?

During the day, DCA’s high surface areas are wiped down after every use. At the start of the transition period, scholars are asked to wipe their chairs and desks so that the next scholar is sitting in a sanitized area. Staff members are required to monitor scholars and ensure the area is cleaned properly. After school, DCA is completely washed from the walls to the floors, doorknobs, tables, and chairs. The school building is then closed to ensure the rooms remain germ-free.

What is the ventilation system at DCA?

There are ventilators in every room where scholars are present. The ventilators stay on throughout the school day and are frequently checked to ensure they are operating effectively.

What is the procedure for entering the building?

Scholars are required to have their temperatures checked before entering the school building. If a scholar has a temperature of 101 or higher, the scholar will be denied access into the school building and will not be able to return without a doctor’s note.

Who do I speak to regarding my child’s academics?

Parents are encouraged to speak to their child’s teacher first. For additional support, please speak to Ms. E (Assistant Principal & Education Specialist) or Dr. Reid (Academic Support Coordinator). If more assistance is need, a parent can always schedule a meeting to speak to DrB! (Chancellor & Principal).

Who do I speak to regarding my child’s behavior?

Parents are encouraged to speak to Ms. Remi (Behavior Specialist & Lead Teacher) regarding behavior. If more assistance is need, a parent can always schedule a meeting to speak to DrB! (Chancellor & Principal).

Who do I speak to regarding my child’s emotional support?

Parents are encouraged to speak to Ms. Nia (Counseling Specialist & Lead Teacher regarding emotional support. If more assistance is need, a parent can always schedule a meeting to speak to DrB! (Chancellor & Principal).

Who do I speak to regarding enrollment, admission, and administrative services?

Parents are encouraged to speak to AdminD (Administrative Director) regarding all administrative services. If more assistance is need, a parent can always schedule a meeting to speak to DrB! (Chancellor & Principal).