Charter School Benefits - Tucson International Academy

15 Questions About Tax Credits for Charter Schools in Arizona

Did you know that if you made any contribution to a charter school in Arizona like Tucson International Academy, you can claim it as a school tax credit? The contribution can be in the form of a donation, or payment of fees for your child to participate in an extracurricular activity. Below you’ll find information directly from the Arizona Department of Revenue to help you claim the tax credit you deserve! If you didn’t know about this tax credit in 2013, be sure to keep track of any contributions or paid fees in 2014 so you don’t miss out next year.

15 Frequently Asked Questions about Tax Credits for Charter Schools:

What school tax credits are available to individuals? An individual may claim a credit for making contributions or paying fees to a public school for support of extracurricular activities or character education programs. Who may claim the individual school tax credits? The individual school tax credits are available only to individuals. Partnerships and S-corporations cannot pass these credits through to their partners or shareholders. These credits are also not available to trusts, estates, regular corporations, or S-corporations. What forms does an individual use to claim these credits? An individual who makes contributions or pays fees to a public school for support of extracurricular activities or character education programs would use Arizona Form 322 to claim this credit. Can a taxpayer receive a refund of these credits? No. The credits may only be used to the extent they reduce a tax liability to zero. Any unused amounts may be carried forward for not more than five consecutive taxable years. Must a taxpayer have a child in school in order to claim any of these credits? No. Is a charter school considered to be a public school or a private school? A charter school is defined in A.R.S. § 15-101 as a public school. Therefore, a charter school is eligible for the credit for contributions made or fees paid to a public school to support extracurricular activities or character education. What do I have to do to qualify for this credit? To qualify for the credit you must make cash or payroll withholding contributions or pay fees to a public school for support of extracurricular activities or for character education programs. Will I qualify for the credit if I pay fees for my own child to participate in an extracurricular activity or character education program? Yes, if the fees you pay for your own child to participate in an extracurricular activity or character education program qualify for the credit. Do contributions I make to the school qualify for the credit? Yes, if the contributions are in support of extracurricular activities or a character education program. Must the credit for contributions made or fees paid to a public school be claimed in the year of donation? Yes. What is a character education program? A character education program is a program defined in A.R.S. § 15-719. Under this statute each district may develop its own course of study for each grade. At a minimum, the character education program must include:

Instruction in the definition and application of at least six of the following character traits: truthfulness, responsibility, compassion, diligence, sincerity, trustworthiness, respect, attentiveness, obedience, orderliness, forgiveness, virtue, fairness, caring, citizenship, and integrity.
Use of activities, discussions and presentations to illustrate and reinforce the application of the character traits.
Presentations by teachers or mentors who demonstrate the character traits. What public schools and grades are eligible for the credit? Public schools and charter schools that provide instruction in grades kindergarten through 12 are eligible for the credit. Nongovernmental schools, pre- schools, community colleges, and universities do not qualify for the credit.

What is a fee paid for the support of extracurricular activities? A fee is a dollar amount paid to a public school for the support of extracurricular activities. It is important to note that at least some monetary amount must be levied to participate in an extracurricular activity in order for the credit to be available. What are extracurricular activities? Extracurricular activities are school sponsored activities that require enrolled students to pay a fee in order to participate. Such activities may include, but are not limited to, use of band uniforms, use of equipment or uniforms for varsity athletics, use of scientific laboratory equipment or materials, or in-state or out-of- state trips that are solely for competitive events. Extracurricular activities do not include any senior trips or events that are recreational, amusement or tourist activities. Generally, any optional, noncredit, educational or recreational activities that supplement the education program of the school are considered to be extracurricular activities. A.R.S. § 15-342.24 requires each district school board to determine which activities are extracurricular and what fees will be levied. Fees must not exceed the actual costs of the activity. Fees for the use of scientific or other equipment must be optional and not part of a course taken for credit. What is an enrolled student? An enrolled student is a student included by the school in its average daily membership count (ADM). Pre- school students, except handicapped students, and adult education students should not be included. Must a public school issue a receipt to the taxpayer for contributions or payment of extracurricular activity fees? Yes. The receipt should include the public school name, school district name and number, taxpayer name and address, amount paid, date paid, and a description of the activity being supported. All tax questions and answers above were taken from: The Arizona Department of Revenue at: Click here to view document For additional information you can call toll free: 1-800-352-4090 or write to: Arizona Department of Revenue Taxpayer Information & Assistance PO Box 29086 Phoenix AZ 85038-9086 Let us bring the world to your child and your child to the world. Enroll Now!

TIA: A Stellar Charter School in Tucson

When Greg told his wife Gabriella he got the job transfer to Tucson, they literally danced and sang around their kitchen. “Sunshine! No more horrible winters! No more two-hour commute!” But suddenly they stopped dead in their tracks and stared at each other. “What about the kids’ school!” They were certain they would never find a school in Tucson that offered as much as the school where their boys now attended. Fortunately, when Greg expressed their hesitation at accepting the transfer, his boss was familiar enough with Tucson to be able to recommend Tucson International Academy, a stellar charter school in Tucson he knew would be perfect for them.

What is a charter school, and how is it different from a public school?

Greg and Gabriella soon learned that a charter school is an independently-run public school that is granted greater flexibility in its operations. In return for this freedom, the school has greater accountability for performance. The "charter" that TIA adheres to is a performance contract that details their mission, program, students served, performance goals, and methods of assessment. TIA is accountable for academic results and for upholding the promises made in their charter. It must demonstrate performance in the areas of academic achievement, financial management, and organizational stability. Parents have the option to choose a charter school for their children, rather than send them to the neighborhood public school in their district.

What makes TIA different?

Tucson International Academy is a team-based learning community that prepares students for a global society. Teamwork, trust, creativity, organization, excellence and community are powerfully held values of Tucson International Academy. TIA offers in depth foreign language programs such as Spanish and Chinese. In addition, TIA offers extensive exploration of, and use of, technology. Academic achievement is highly valued at TIA as is the active and purposeful pursuit of higher education. TIA pursues these goals while also inspiring cultural understanding and community involvement. Every objective at TIA is approached with love, respect and responsibility. After Greg and Gabriella researched Tucson International Academy, their excitement about moving to Tucson not only returned, but was stronger than ever. TIA’s small class sizes, academic excellence, and the superior staff were just what they wanted for their kids. They loved seeing their boys’ eyes light up as together they read that TIA students had just returned from a marine biology trip to Catalina Island, and that a trip to China is being planned for the summer of 2014! This move to Tucson might just be the best thing that ever happened to their family. Does Tucson International Academy sound like the perfect school for your child? Enroll Now! Article by Betty Kruszka~TheJ3Effect

TIA: A Different Kind of Prep School

TIA: A Different Kind of Prep School ~ Preparing for 2014 China Trip! For most kids, the trip to school involves a short walk, a bike ride, catching the school bus, or a ride from mom. For TIA students it can also involve international airports, a 15 hour plane ride, bullet trains, and some serious jet lag! That’s because some students from TIA will be going to China next summer as part of their TIA educational experience. When a prep school like TIA says it brings the world to its students and brings its students to the world, it is not kidding! Our Fearless Leader Mr. Lin Wu, the dual credit program director for TIA, is from China and will be the leader of this trip. He has put together the trip and has designed a fantastic itinerary for the students, parents, and other staff members planning to go on this memorable adventure. What Will We See? While in China our TIA travelers will get to see Hong Kong, Victoria Peak, Repulse Bay, and Aberdeen. They will then travel to Chengdu to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha and the Chengdu Giant Panda Base. Then it’s off to Jiuzhaigou Valley (altitude 6,600 – 14,800 ft.) which is famous for its colorful lakes and natural beauty. By day six the group will have traveled to Xi’an for a guided tour of the Terra-Cotta Army and to view a Shadow Play. The group will then take a night train from Xi’an to Beijing where they will visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. The last day in China will be spent visiting the Badaling Section of the Great Wall, the Ming Tombs, and the National Stadium (Bird Nest). What is the Cost? A $500 nonrefundable down payment is due no later than the end of October for anyone wanting to join this unforgettable excursion. After the down payment, folks will pay $500 per month until the $2500 per person is paid in full. The $2500 covers all air travel, domestic travel in China, all hotel accommodations, and most meals. This fantastic deal is based on at least 35 travelers, which is why the initial down payment is nonrefundable. In other words, if folks signed up to go but then backed out, it would raise the cost for all the others. About 35 people attended the first of two orientation meetings for the 9-day trip which is scheduled for June 2014. A second orientation is scheduled for February to work on the needed paperwork for international travel. To get a more detailed day-to-day overview of the trip, be sure to look at the itinerary Mr. Wu has put together. It is hard to imagine a more capable person than Mr. Wu to organize and lead this trip as he takes the students of TIA to his beautiful homeland.

Does TIA sound like the perfect school for your child? Enroll Now!

Story by Betty Kruszka ~ TheJ3Effect

Preparing Students for a Global Society

“We Believe in Tucson International Academy, the Charter School Preparing Students for a Global Society”

The easiest sales pitch to say “no” to, is one from a person who doesn’t believe in what they are asking YOU to buy. When you read what our principals have to say, you know they BELIEVE in this charter school called Tucson International Academy… they truly buy what they are selling.

Miguel Montemayor…principal of the Broadway campus

”What sets TIA apart is how we’re small enough to have that one-on-one time with our students. We work with them constantly on their studies. We encourage them to learn something new every day. But our conversations don’t always have to be about a math lesson. We can sometimes just say to a student, ‘Let’s reflect on what’s happening in your life right now.’ Students really appreciate this because it not only gives them a break from the day- to- day grind but they get the individual attention they need. My students know me and what I’m doing. They’ll ask me, ‘Mr. M, where are you going on this break? When are you paintballing again?’ We talk on a personal level. It’s more like a community. My students open up to me and I know what’s going on in their lives.. Here at TIA… it’s hard for a kid to fall through the cracks.”

Valerie Verdugo Enriquez…principal of the Midvale Campus

“You, as a parent, have to make that tough decision about who to trust with your kids, not only with their daily safety, but with their future. When I first came to TIA, the Midvale Campus was a 1200 square foot "one room schoolhouse", but I saw the need in the community for a great school and committed to the vision despite multiple opportunities to switch jobs to "better" positions over the last several years. Midvale was a dream, but it has become a dream school! I have the best job in education in the state of Arizona... I love my kids, and their parents even more...they are SO committed. I am truly blessed!!”

Peter Meehan…principal of TIA’s East campus

“We’ve seen many students enroll at TIA who have fallen far behind their grade level in some of their subjects. For example, “We’ve had kids come to us as 8^th graders who didn’t know their time tables. Within two years we’ve seen them catch up, passing at their grade level. That’s exciting to watch. Everything about the future changes for these students. Our kids trust us and talk to us about what’s going on in their lives.” We get to know them and are better able to help them find a way to succeed. People who teach have choices about where they teach. As you have read what our principals say, you know they are not in it for the money or for the attention. They teach because they care. When someone cares about what they do, they want a place in which to meaningfully invest their lives. It’s obvious with these principals, they believe that this unique charter school, the Tucson International Academy, is that place. Find out for yourself why these people are saying what they say…Enroll Now! Story by Adrian Van Vactor- TheJ3Effect

A Journey in the Pursuit of Excellence – Victor’s Story

“Good, better, best- Never let it rest!” The Winning Philosophy of Victor Figueroa -- Student at TIA

If you look up synonyms for the word victor, you will find words like champion, conqueror and winner. Victor Figueroa was actually named after his father, but all of those words can be used to describe this young man. Seventeen-year-old Victor has just completed his junior year at the Midvale Campus of Tucson International Academy, a premier charter school in Tucson with a strong college preparatory program. A journey in the pursuit of excellence, fueled by a strong work ethic and balanced with his compassion for others, Victor has come to embody the mission and values of the Tucson International Academy.

Fluent in 3 Languages

Victor has earned excellent grades all the years he has been attending Tucson International Academy. He also has learned to speak Chinese along with being fluent in Spanish and English. He won First Place in a competition with his poem in Chinese and then performed a poem in Spanish at the Cinco de Mayo fiesta where he also sang. Yet Victor’s true passion is computers and technology. He’s actually the person many teachers and other students go to for tech support! Attending Tucson International Academy has allowed Victor to do his college prep at a school that not only has small classes and offers courses like Chinese, but also excels in supporting the technically advanced student. With all of those accomplishments, Victor remains humble and other-focused. If you ask him, Victor will give much of the credit for his successes to Mrs. Enriquez, the principal at the Midvale Campus of Tucson International Academy. Victor says Mrs. Enriquez was there for him from his very first day at Midvale seven years ago right up to today. According to Victor, her encouragement and support are part of what sets his school apart from others.

“Good, better, best- Never let it rest!”

He also gives credit to his teachers, including Mr. Basurto, who teaches English, economics and Victor’s most challenging subject, history. It was from Mr. Basurto that Victor first heard, “Good, better, best- Never let it rest!” That phrase has become Victor’s philosophy and is included as part of the salutation on all his correspondence. When asked what the phrase means to him, Victor explained that it is a motto of always striving for improvement, never being satisfied with mediocre effort, but always giving his all. The challenge he says is what to do after giving your best. “That’s when you have to start thinking outside of the box!” he says enthusiastically. Victor’s parents must be beyond proud of their eldest son. Having both been born in El Salvador, Eunice and Victor Figueroa Sr. have taught their three children the value and importance of hard work, integrity, faith and family. Because of these kinds of values, Mr. and Mrs. Figueroa made sure that Victor and his two younger siblings could attend the Midvale Campus of Tucson International Academy; where not only excellence in education is the standard, but also where a strong supportive environment is provided in which their children can thrive. A school where all students can become victors! Enroll Now! Story by Betty Kruszka~TheJ3Effect

a journey in the pursuit of excellence Victor

TIA Creating World Changers

Imagine that your student at the U of A calls and says, “we met (professional athlete --insert your favorite’s name here) today!” You might be impressed and think, “Wow, pretty neat.” Now imagine that your child attends a highly focused charter school, and comes home saying, “We spoke to the President of the United States on a conference call today.” How many dishes would you drop? Well, that’s exactly what happened to students at TIA’s Midvale campus. It began with their teacher, Mr. Basurto, who taught his students that they could make a difference.

Congressman Raul Grijalva comes to school to speak and answer questions

One of the school’s students wrote a letter about how her father had been deported. Her family had been in the United States for many years; then one day her father up and vanished (picked up by ICE). This young student simply told her story and wanted to know why the United States would take parents away from their kids. Her teacher, Mr. Basurto, touched by her story, sent it to Congressman Raul Grijalva. Also moved by the letter, the congressman agreed to come to the school to speak and answer questions. “The whole school was so thrilled. ‘Oh my gosh, he’s actually here!’ Everyone was so excited--no one talked; they just listened,” said one student after the visit from the congressman. Congressman Grijalva’s message to the students was simple, yet powerful. “You students keep proving the quality of the education you are receiving. Over and over again you out-perform many of the larger schools.” One student after the event exclaimed, “Being able to ask questions… it was empowering to know that we can make a difference.”

TIA Students Speak with the President of the United States!

For the past two years, these super-charged TIA students have been writing the White House about social and policy issues they feel have a great impact on their lives… They have been noticed! On several occasions, they have conducted conference calls with the congressmen at the Capitol about the Dream Act, to make sure the Dream Act would make a difference for people in Tucson. This spring, however, they had a conference call with President Obama. True story. As you can imagine, it was not a long conversation, but he was careful to encourage the students to apply themselves and to be the kind of Americans that will make us all proud.

TIA is doing something simple, yet profound--TIA is creating world changers!

One of the teachers observed, “I don’t know about you, but when I was in high school, as is the case with most teens these days, my greatest concern was getting a high score on my video game!” That is not the case for these TIA students. Inspired by their amazing and caring teaching staff, they are learning that they can make a difference. TIA is doing something simple, yet profound--TIA is creating world changers!

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2013 TIA Student Career Day Video Interview’s

Every year, TIA brings together faculty and students from their four locations around Tucson to open the eyes of their students to the potential opportunities that await them once they graduate. Many of the careers featured, like working for the F.B.I. or becoming an architect, would require a formal college education. However, students were also exposed to opportunities like joining the police force, border patrol, or construction which do not require a college degree. Each career exhibit brought something representative of their work. Some booths had many pictures or demonstrations of a "day in the life" of a particular occupation, while others gave opportunities for hands-on activities so students could gain their first experience of a required job element.

Watch the video's below to see what some of the students had to say about TIA's Student Career Day 2013.

Students share their thoughts on the future, their favorite class, teacher and and what they want to do with their lives. What are you excited to learn & what is your favoirte class? http://youtu.be/xFoh3joj5VQ What is your favorite calss? http://youtu.be/OKLcbUf3MN8 What do you want to be? http://youtu.be/HiiCFO7QtrA What are you excited about? http://youtu.be/u1ka9GBwwrg What is your favorite class? http://youtu.be/7dkVCv68zAE What do you want to do with your life? http://youtu.be/z1vtP2SjM5U

Parents Play a Vital Role in a Child’s Education

So you enrolled your child in classes in a great charter school. You bought a new backpack and loaded it up with No. 2 pencils, a composition notebook, a ruler, and a box of tissue for the classroom. You met the teacher and walked your kid to class on the first day. Now, the ball’s in his court —it’s time to sit back and wait for the A’s to roll in. Ridiculous, right? Even wishful thinkers know that parents play a vital role in a child's education. At TIA, the supportive involvement our families offer their students is priceless. As we all shake off our summer slumber, here are some reminders of simple things you can do to ensure a successful school-year.

Simple Things You can Do to Ensure a Successful School-year

Talk. The best way to stay involved is to talk to your child about her day. But sometimes, drawing out kids’ thoughts can be like pulling teeth. Broad questions, such as, “How was your day?” or “What did you learn?” rarely evoke a response. Specific questions, however, like “What did you draw today?” or “What game did you play at recess?” can start the conversational ball rolling. Read aloud. Did you know that reading aloud to your child—at any age—can help them in school like nothing else can? According to Jim Trelease, author of The Read-Aloud Handbook, says this activity strengthens literacy skills, develops imagination, fosters curiosity, and increases attention span, among other things. “Students who read the most, read the best, achieve the most, and stay in school the longest,” he argues. “It’s like a scholastic vitamin,” says writer Michelle Luce. Prioritize homework. Set aside consistent time each day for your child to complete their homework. While it may not seem glamorous, simply providing a quiet and tidy space in which your child can study will eliminate distractions and improve concentration. Encourage extra-curricular activities. Discover what unique interests and abilities your child has. An after-school club or sport can teach specific skills, boost self-confidence, and give your child something to look forward to at the end of the day. Model a Positive Attitude. Without even realizing it, your child is influenced by your educational outlook. Your love for learning, work ethic, and respect for the teachers can be motivating. Build a positive attitude because when you get right down to it, as Scot Hamilton said, “The only disability in life is bad attitude.” Supporting our kids is a big assignment, but as our TIA families know, our students are worth it. It’s going to be a great year!

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The J3 Effect – Tiffany Richardson

The Benefits of Student Travel

Recently, a group of 26 students, parents and teachers from Tucson International Academy traveled to France! Our mission was to use the “on site” experiences to prepare our students for our global society. Students enjoyed 8 days of sightseeing, discussion groups, projects, and group mealtime collaboration as they processed their studies of language, reading, culture, social studies, science, and math while physically immersed in a foreign country. These are all wonderful benefits of student travel but there is so much more as well.

When Touring Another Country, All of Your Senses are Ignited

In Paris, students had the thrill of going to the top of the Eiffel Tower where they saw beautiful panoramic views of Paris. We were all surprised to learn about and see a model of Mr. Eiffel’s office built into the top of the Eiffel Tower! What a dynamic place for an office! The famous Louvre art museum was another fascinating venture, beholding the Mona Lisa masterpiece and the Venus de Milo sculpture in person. What a wonderful experience, to stand in the elaborate halls of the Louvre among hundreds of other art appreciators. The history of Notre Dame came alive as the group walked through its artistic presentation of faith over the decades. We ate crepes, salami, cheese, snails and even frog legs! A real adventure for the pallet! When touring another country, all of your senses are ignited, and one can receive the culture and historic relevance via sensory input…..seeing the incredible historic sights, hearing the distinct Parisian sounds of emergency vehicles, smelling and tasting new spices and flavors in the foods, plus touching the relics of ancient pasts. All the information collected through the senses enhances learning, conceptualization, and understanding. First hand experiences are the only way to get a complete sampling of real life data which can more dynamically be translated into the ability to apply learning at the highest levels.

What Does Student Tavel do for you?

Renewed enthusiasm for learning When the kids return home with enthusiastic stories and pictures of an incredible time abroad, teachers and parents see the immediate impact the experience has had. However, the most significant and enduring effects may not be obvious until later, as the students tackle challenges with increased, enhanced confidence, greater enthusiasm and maturity in their approach to their studies, and demonstrate deeper sensitivity to other people. Greater confidence After climbing the Eiffel Tower, walking on the beaches of Normandy on the D-day locations, or simply ordering lunch in the local language, students can’t help but grasp the fact that there is new possibility in the world, in their abilities, and in their future. In addition to gaining greater cultural sensitivity and an international perspective on their studies, students return home feeling more confident and independent—qualities that stay with them throughout their academic, professional and personal lives. Higher academic achievement When students travel with a group from Tucson International Academy, they’re not just learning about other places, cultures and languages, they’re living it. Whether learning about William the Conqueror through the stitching of the ancient tapestry at Beaueax or discussing ancient sewer systems of famous castles such as the Palace of Versailles, these hands-on experiences allow students to truly connect with their studies in new ways. International travels pique students’ intellectual curiosity, translating into increased academic success upon their return. Stronger college applications Because so many U.S. colleges appreciate the value of global awareness and now place an increased emphasis on international perspectives within their curricula, students with international experience have a competitive edge when applying to colleges. As a college preparation academy, it is important to offer opportunities that will enhance our students’ college applications to gain acceptance to outstanding institutions and university programs so students may have the best education to pursue the most interesting and rewarding careers.

Enhanced career prospects

International travel often inspires our students to consider international careers. Our past travelers are endeavoring to become translators at the United Nations, diplomats in Washington, D.C., and international executives. Regardless of our students’ professional ambitions, international travel experience instills new confidence in students, enhances students’ ability to work with a variety of people, and encourages them to perceive new challenges from a broader perspective, which are skills that can enhance a person’s career no matter what the industry.

Friendships that last a lifetime

Students who travel with a group from Tucson International Academy develop lasting friendships with fellow travelers. Whether they’ve been friends for years or meet on the tour bus, friends who share in the life-changing experience of traveling abroad make special connections that often endure into adulthood

What is a Cotillion Ball?

How often do you get a chance to dress up with the whole family and attend a ball? What is a cotillion ball anyway and why is TIA having one?

For the last three years, TIA students have enjoyed a unique social event. A Cotillion, a more formal and reserved debutante ball, gives students the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and showcase a dance they learn in school during P.E. class. Learning a dance each year is required for all students at all campuses and “after learning it, many students end up going to the Cotillion who would have otherwise not attended,” said Arlene Canez, Administrator at TIA’s West Campus.

They Key Difference Between TIA's Cotillion and a Typical School Dance?

This year’s Cotillion held on Friday, April 27th, 2012 was no exception. The event had 90 staff, students, and family members in attendance. That’s a key difference between TIA’s annual Cotillion and a typical school dance. It gives the families of students the opportunity to dress up and come together for an elegant dinner and dance as a family. The faculty of TIA set out with a purpose to create a unique and purposeful event with the goal to bring families together, teach students to interact socially, and showcase their dance talents.

This Years Dance: Tango!

Of the four schools in Tucson, three schools had enough students attending to showcase their dance with this year’s student vote being the Tango. One unique highlight to this year’s event was the attendance of TIA’s very own dance club. They received a great response as they showcased the Salsa. Students visited and danced the night away with fellow students from other schools. It was amazing to hear how much interaction and social building took place between students from different campuses. It’s easy to understand cliques and students grouping up with their friends. TIA has designed this event so that all the schools in Tucson can come together, interact, watch each other’s showcase, and grow in their social skills. It’s like a prom with parents but, more elegant, less stigma, and more educational. Mrs. Canez said, “The students didn’t separate out, they actually got to know each other!” To encourage attendance, TIA allows students to make payments on their tickets.

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