Our Journey: The History of Perry Academy Microschool

Perry Academy Microschool was founded on a simple yet profound vision: to create an educationalenvironment where every student's unique potential could truly flourish. Recognizing the limitations of traditional "one-size-fits-all" approaches, our founders, driven by a passion for personalized learning and a deep understanding of diverse educational needs, established Perry Academy as a woman-owned initiative.

In 2020, our journey began in a thoughtfully converted portion of a private residence, providing a nurturing, home-like, and sensory-appropriate setting where students could feel comfortable and confident. From these humble beginnings, our commitment to individualized instruction, hands-on learning, and comprehensive lifeskills development quickly resonated with families seeking a different path for their children.

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Perry Academy has remained dedicated to its core mission, utilizing every resource to enhance the student experience.

• Individualized Attention: Recognizing that each child is unique, the school commits to tailoring its approach to meet the specific needs of every student.

• Small Learning Environment: The microschool model inherently facilitates small group sizes, allowing for more focused instruction and deeper student-teacher relationships.

Life Skills and Community-Based Curriculum: Education extends beyond traditional academics to include practical life skills and engagement with the wider community, providing relevant and contextual learning experiences. Perry Academy Microschool recognizes the value of extending learning opportunities and support networks beyond its own walls by fostering strategic community partnerships. These collaborations can enrich the "community-based curriculum" , provide students with diverse experiences, and connect families with valuable local resources. For a microschool with a small staff and specialized focus, such partnerships can significantly enhance its offerings and support its mission. 

We offer focused, small-group instruction tailored to your child's developmental stage:

• Pre-Academic, Lower & Upper Elementary: These intimate classes of only five children are led by a Master's-level Special Education teacher with over 20 years of experience, guaranteeing unparalleled individual support.

• Occupational Course of Study (OCS): Our specialized OCS groups are also kept small, with just seven students, to ensure an effective and collaborative learning environment.

We measure success at Perry Academy by mastery, not by grades. Our students work toward mastering fundamental academic and life skills, which creates a solid foundation for their future. Unlike traditional schools with constantly changing curricula, that can leave students behind, our stable approach builds lasting confidence. This enables students to develop practical strategies they can generalize and apply to new challenges in all aspects of life.

Year-Round/Four Day Week Schedule

At Perry Academy, we've thoughtfully designed our calendar to support a balanced and consistent learning environment. We operate on a year-round, four-day week that still fulfills the complete 180-day academic year. This innovative schedule allows for six full-week breaks, giving students and families time to rest and recharge. To support our students' needs, we provide three personal days each trimester, with the opportunity for up to ten makeup days in August. The result is a predictable rhythm that fosters comfort, reduces anxiety, and helps students 54 their true potential.

Schedule & Calendar: Perry Academy follows a 180-day, year-round academic calendar structured into a four-day school week (Tuesday-Friday). The calendar includes six, full-week breaks throughout the year.

Attendance: Students are permitted threepersonaldays per trimester. Up to ten additional makeup days are available annually in August.

Programming: We provide distinct morning and afternoon group sessions for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Community Inclusion: Community-based learning is an essential component of our program. Families will receive advance notification of all outings. For the latest updates on community experiences, guardians should consult the Perry Academy website and social media pages.

The pursuit of passion at Perry Academy extends beyond our campus through our Exploratory Hours. To facilitate this, the Perry Academy team works directly with each student and their family to develop two key items:

1. A Personalized Goal: A target number of Exploratory Hours to be completed outside of the microschool.

2. A Custom Activity List: A curated list of approved activities, volunteering & paid employment, local events, family trips, religious participation and community programs that enable the student to pursue their interests.

Students will document their engagement in these activities through their individual Google Workspace for Education accounts, maintaining a clear record of their progress.

Families should check Perry Academy’s website, social media and school bulletin boards for updated list of additional opportunities.

Transportation

Compliance with Laws: All transportation provided will comply with North Carolina motor vehicle laws, including requirements for vehicle inspection, insurance coverage, driver licensing, and the use of appropriate child safety restraints (e.g., seat belts, car seats, booster seats based on age, weight, and height).  

Vehicle Safety: Any vehicle used for transporting students will be maintained in safe operating condition.

Driver Qualifications: Drivers will be appropriately licensed and have a safe driving record. They will be knowledgeable about emergency procedures.

Student Supervision: Adequate staff supervision will be provided on all school-arranged transportation to ensure student safety and manage behavior. Child-staff ratios applicable in the classroom should be considered for transportation as well. 

Emergency Information: Emergency contact information and relevant health information (e.g., for students with severe allergies or medical conditions) for all students being transported will be readily accessible to the supervising staff member(s). A first aid kit will also be available in the vehicle.

Promotion of Healthy Eating: The school will encourage healthy eating habits. If snacks are provided by the school, they will consist of nutritious options (e.g., fruits, vegetables, whole grains). Information about healthy eating may be shared with families.

Food Brought from Home: If students bring their own snacks and lunches, parents will be encouraged to pack nutritious choices. The school may provide guidelines or suggestions for healthy lunchbox options.

Food Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: The school will work closely with parents to accommodate students' documented food allergies and dietary restrictions. Clear communication and protocols will be in place to prevent accidental exposure to allergens. This may include policies on food sharing.

Safe Food Handling and Storage:

Any food prepared or stored on school premises will be handled in accordance with basic food safety principles to prevent foodborne illness. This includes proper handwashing, cleaning of food preparation surfaces, and appropriate temperature control for perishable items.

Students will be taught to wash their hands before and after eating.

Eating areas will be kept clean.

Celebrations and Special Occasions: If food is part of classroom celebrations or special events, consideration will be given to healthy options and the dietary needs/allergies of all students. Parents may be consulted or provided with guidelines for items brought in for such events.

These guidelines aim to support a school environment that promotes student health and wellness through good nutrition and safe food practices.

Educational Technology Integration:

Technology will be used as a tool to supplement and enrich instruction, not as a replacement for direct teacher-student interaction.

Educational software, interactive websites, and learning apps may be used to reinforce concepts, provide differentiated practice, and engage students in dynamic learning experiences.

Teachers will receive support in identifying and utilizing appropriate educational technology resources effectively and safely.

The school will promote responsible and safe internet use, teaching students digital citizenship skills appropriate to their developmental level.  

Assistive Technology (AT) Assessment and Implementation:

For students who may benefit from AT, an assessment of their needs will be conducted. This may involve reviewing recommendations from previous IEPs, collaborating with parents, and consulting with external specialists if necessary.  

AT can range from low-tech solutions (e.g., pencil grips, visual timers, graphic organizers) to high-tech devices (e.g., speech-generating devices, specialized software for reading or writing).

The school will make reasonable efforts to acquire or facilitate access to necessary AT for students. ESA+ funds may be a potential source for purchasing approved AT devices or services for eligible students, in accordance with NCSEAA guidelines.  

Mrs. Perry and Mrs. Moss, with their special education expertise, will guide the implementation of AT, ensuring students receive appropriate instruction and support in using these tools effectively.

Equitable Access: The school will strive to ensure that all students have equitable access to the technology and AT they need to participate fully in the educational program.

Maintenance and Support: Procedures will be in place for the maintenance of school-provided technology and AT devices, and for troubleshooting common issues.

To foster a seamless, collaborative, and organized learning environment, Perry Academy Microschool (PAM) utilizes Google Workspace for Education as our primary digital operating system. This powerful, integrated suite of tools connects students, teachers, and families, ensuring that communication is clear and learning resources are always accessible. By centralizing our digital workflow, we prepare students with essential 21st-century skills while creating an effective and cohesive educational experience.

Protecting student privacy is a responsibility we take with the utmost seriousness. We have specifically chosen Google Workspace for Education because it is a service that is rigorously designed for schools and complies with all relevant federal privacy laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

In accordance with regulations from the North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education (DNPE), it is a mandatory state requirement that all students registered in a homeschool complete a nationally standardized test annually. For students enrolled full-time at Perry Academy, this test is administered each spring trimester. We also offer test administration as a standalone service or as part of our homeschool consulting packages. To ensure every student can perform their best, the Perry Academy team collaborates with each family to identify and implement appropriate accommodations for all assessments.

At Perry Academy Microschool, we believe that a positive and supportive learning environment is built on a foundation of shared values. This Code of Conduct serves as our community's agreement, outlining the principles of respect, honesty, and responsibility that guide our interactions. It is more than a set of rules; it is a pledge we make to one another to act with integrity and kindness. By following these guidelines, we all contribute to creating a safe and inclusive school where every student feels they belong and is empowered to succeed. We invite you to join us in upholding this commitment and making our school a proud and productive place for all.

Student Conduct

All students are expected to treat all members of the school community—peers, staff, families and community members—with dignity and consideration. Students are expected to take ownership of their actions and seek to gain understanding in how their actions impact the community around them.

Perry Academy understands with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities frequently struggle with behavior management. To that end, instruction in social skills is a primary part of the pedagogy at PAM.

Students who demonstrate aggressive and/or dangerous behaviors toward others are not currently appropriate for placement at Perry Academy Microschool.

Family Conduct

Families are a key component of Perry Academy. Family members of students are expected to treat student, staff, community members and staff with respect, honesty & kindness.

Non-Discrimination

PAM is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions, and all interactions with clients and partners, are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to any protected characteristic. We believe that a diverse and inclusive environment is critical to our success and we are committed to fostering a culture of mutual respect and dignity. No one shall be discriminated for any reason, up to and including any protected classes such as race, religion, sex or disability.

Discrimination is defined as treating an individual unfavorably or adversely in any aspect of employment or business because of their protected characteristic.

Anti-Bullying/Harassment

Bullying or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated at PAM. Any evidence of such behavior will be immediately re-directed and reported to families. In the event that a student or family feels that they have been bullied or harassed, they should report the offence to a PAM staff immediately. All reports will be taken seriously and will be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and impartially. The investigation will be handled as confidentially as possible, and information will be disclosed only on a need-to-know basis to those necessary for the investigation and resolution. PAM expressly prohibits any form of retaliation against an individual who, in good faith, reports a concern under this policy or participates in an investigation. Retaliation is a serious violation of this policy. Any person found to have engaged in retaliatory action will be subject to disciplinary action.

Harassment is defined as any unwelcome verbal, visual, or physical conduct based on a protected characteristic. Harassment becomes a violation of this policy when it is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive, or when enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment.

Religious Expression

PAM respects the right of everyone to hold and practice their sincerely held religious, spiritual, or ethical beliefs. We will provide reasonable accommodations for these practices, provided they do not create an undue hardship on the organization's operations. PAM is a Christian based faith ministry, which provides daily Christian devotionals to students. Any harassment due to a person’s religious affiliation, Christian or otherwise, will not be tolerated at PAM.

Violations of the Code of Conduct

In the event that a student begins demonstrating offensive and/or aggressive behavior, the following steps will take place:

1. Redirection

2. Phone Call with Guardian

3. Conference with Guardian & Student

4. Suspension-1 week

5. Discharge from Program

Right to Appeal

Families have the right to appeal decision in writing within 5 business days of being informed of the program’s decision. Appeal will be reviewed during the quarterly Board of Directors meetings.

Perry Academy Microschool is committed to providing a secure and safe physical environment for all students and staff. Even within its "home-like setting", formal safety protocols are essential and non-negotiable. These procedures are designed to prevent accidents, protect against potential threats, and ensure a setting where learning can occur without undue risk. The school will endeavor to align its safety practices with the principles of the North Carolina State Action Plan for School Safety (SAPSS) where applicable, emphasizing a proactive approach to safety.  

Premises Safety: Regular safety inspections of the school building (interior and exterior) and any outdoor play areas will be conducted to identify and mitigate potential hazards (e.g., tripping hazards, unsecured furniture, unsafe equipment). The facility will be maintained in good repair, clean, and free from clutter.

Access Control and Visitor Management: All exterior doors will be kept secured during school hours to prevent unauthorized entry.

Student Supervision: Students will be appropriately supervised by staff at all times, including during instructional periods, transitions, recess, meal times, and any school-sponsored activities, whether on or off campus. Student-to-staff ratios will be maintained to ensure adequate supervision, aligning with best practices for special education settings. Proper safe supervision of peers and adults ensure the prevention of sexual misconduct on the part of all concerned parties.

Playground Safety Outdoor play area and equipment will be regularly inspected for safety, and the area will be maintained to prevent injuries (e.g., appropriate surfacing, no hazardous debris). Rules for safe playground use will be taught and enforced.

Emergency Exits and Equipment: Emergency exits will be clearly marked and kept unobstructed. Fire extinguishers and first aid kits will be readily accessible and regularly inspected/restocked.

ALL EMERGENCIES (Police, Fire, EMS) 911

Department (Non-Emergency)(919) 556-7226 For non-urgent police matters.Rolesville Fire Department (Non-Emergency)(919) 556-2238 (Verify local number)For non-urgent fire safety questions.Wake County EMS (Non-Emergency)(Verify local number)For non-urgent medical transport inquiries.Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222 National hotline.Wake County Child Protective Services (DSS)(919) 212-7990 (Verify reporting line)For reporting suspected child abuse, neglect, or dependency.

Mandated Reporting

Guest & Visitor Policy

All visitors (including parents outside of scheduled drop-off/pick-up times) must report to a designated point of entry and sign in. Visitors will be issued a visitor's badge or identification and will be escorted or supervised as appropriate while on school premises. A log of all visitors will be maintained.

CPR/First Aid Certification

At least one staff member on premises during school hours will maintain current certification in First Aid and CPR, including training for infants and children if applicable, though the primary focus is "children". First aid kits will be adequately stocked and easily accessible.

Severe Weather Emergencies

In the event of forecasted severe weather Perry Academy will notify families of any changes to the school schedule via text message, email and our social media platforms.

Staff Background Checks

To ensure a secure learning environment, all employees undergo a comprehensive criminal background check prior to their start date. This process is a critical step in our hiring procedure, affirming our commitment to entrusting our students to the care of responsible and trustworthy individuals.

Admissions Policy and Procedure

Admission to Perry Academy Microschool is a selective process designed to identify students who are a strong match for the school's educational program and community. The following four-step process must be completed for an applicant to be considered for enrollment.

Step 1: Application Submission and Fee

Prospective families must initiate the admissions process by submitting a completed online application. A non-refundable application fee is required at the time of submission. An application is not considered complete or ready for review until the fee has been paid.

Step 2: Interview

Upon receipt and preliminary review of the completed application, the admissions office will schedule a mandatory family interview. This interview is a required component of the evaluation process. The purpose of the interview is to assess the alignment of the family's educational goals with the mission and philosophy of Perry Academy Microschool.

Step 3: Notification of Decision

The admissions committee will review all completed applications and interview notes. Official notification of the admissions decision will be communicated to the applicant's family via email on the timeline established by the admissions office.

Step 4: Finalizing Enrollment

An offer of acceptance is secured only after the family completes all required actions by the specified deadline. These actions include the execution of the formal enrollment contract, payment of the tuition deposit and any applicable fees, and the submission of all required student forms and documentation. Failure to complete these steps by the deadline may result in the forfeiture of the student's accepted spot.

Tuition & Fees

ESA+ Grant Provider

Scholarships

Personal Information The creation and meticulous management of comprehensive student records are critical operational functions at Perry Academy Microschool. This is essential for legal compliance, tracking student progress effectively, ensuring the continuity of educational and support services, and meeting the requirements associated with special education provision and ESA+ funding. All student records will be handled with the utmost confidentiality, adhering to the principles of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and relevant North Carolina regulations concerning student data.  Access to student records will be limited to authorized school personnel (Mrs. Perry and Mrs. Moss) who have a legitimate educational interest. Parents/guardians will have the right to review their child's educational records in accordance with FERPA guidelines. No information will be released to third parties without explicit written parental consent, except as permitted or required by law (e.g., in health or safety emergencies, or as required by NCSEAA for ESA+ program oversight).

Student records will be maintained for the period required by North Carolina law and then disposed of securely (e.g., shredding for physical records, secure deletion for digital records) to protect student privacy. 

Digital Records: Electronic records will be stored on password-protected computers and/or encrypted cloud-based systems with appropriate security measures to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches. Regular data backups will be performed.

Perry Academy Microschool is deeply committed to protecting the confidentiality and privacy of all student and family information. Trust between the school and its families is built upon the assurance that sensitive personal, academic, and health-related information is handled with the utmost care, discretion, and in compliance with all applicable laws and ethical standards. Families of students with special education needs often share a significant amount of detailed and personal information, making this commitment to privacy even more critical.

1. Medical

2. Transcripts 

3. Attendance

This Standard Operating Manual (SOP) and all other policies of Perry Academy Microschool are intended to be living documents, responsive to the evolving needs of the school, its students, changes in best practices, and updates in relevant laws and regulations. A systematic process for regular review and updating is therefore essential to ensure that these documents remain current, relevant, and effective guides for the school's operations. Specific policies may be reviewed more frequently if triggered by particular events or changes. Once policy updates are approved, they will be communicated to all relevant parties (staff, parents, students as appropriate).

By-laws

Donations

Policy & form

Reports of Abuse &/or Sexual Misconduct

Perry Academy Microschool is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff. We have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of abuse, neglect, or sexual misconduct. All members of our school community, including administrators, teachers, staff, volunteers, and students, are expected to adhere to this policy. We are dedicated to ensuring that all reports of abuse and sexual misconduct are taken seriously, investigated promptly and thoroughly, and addressed appropriately. Any individual who knows of or has a reasonable suspicion of abuse, neglect, or sexual misconduct involving a student is required to report it immediately to school personnel. In accordance with North Carolina law, any person who has cause to suspect that any child is abused, neglected, or dependent is required to report the case to the county department of social services. If an investigation substantiates a claim of abuse, neglect, or sexual misconduct, Perry Academy Microschool will take appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including:

• For Staff: Termination of employment.

• For Students: Suspension or expulsion.

• For Volunteers: Dismissal from their volunteer position.

Perry Academy Microschool prohibits retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, reports a concern of abuse, neglect, or sexual misconduct, or who participates in an investigation. Any person who engages in retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action.