FAQ’s

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What is a charter school?

Charter schools are schools that are publicly funded but independently run. This unique operation model gives charter schools more control over things like curriculum, staffing, and budgeting compared to traditional public schools. Charter schools are held accountable by authorized public chartering agencies and are required to follow state academic standards.

Is ALP tuition free?

ALP is public and tuition-free, so no tuition may be charged for grades 1-6 or half-day Kindergarten.

What’s the difference between half-day kindergarten and full-day kindergarten?

Half-day: No Charge
The state of Arizona covers funding for free half-day kindergarten. Students who participate in our half-day program will be at school for lunch. Students must be picked up no later than 1:00.

Full-day Kindergarten: $425/month (SY25-26)
The state of Arizona covers the funding for a half-day kindergarten at this rate, so we have adopted this rate to extend the school day and allow us to cover our staffing and operations costs. Given our trilingual immersion model, it is critical for our students to attend a full-day program to have more time to spend in all three languages.

Can students still transfer to ALP in upper elementary grade levels (3rd-6th Grades)?

Yes, they can. Students transferring to ALP at the upper grade levels may face some challenges, especially with the school’s trilingual immersion program in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. However, ALP works to address these challenges with differentiated support, including targeted language assessments, small group instruction, and personalized learning plans to help these students catch up and thrive.

What are the school hours?

Our school hours are from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. Morning drop off is from 7:45 to 8:00, and dismissal is from 3:00 to 3:15.

What is the age requirement for kindergarten?

In Arizona, your child must be 5 years old before September 1 of the year in which they wish to start kindergarten. If your child does not meet the standard age cutoff but will be turning 5 years old before December 31, you may apply for early kindergarten admission.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, our dress code ensures an atmosphere conducive to student learning and free from unnecessary distractions. Our Dress Code Policy can be found in our Family Handbooks, or you can visit our Parent Zone page for more information.

Do you offer before and/or after-school programs?

We do not offer before-school programs. We do offer a homework club from 3:15-4:15 pm. Also, we offer a kids’ club from 4:15-5:30 pm. Click here to learn more about our program.

Do you offer lunch?

We do not offer lunch. Students pack their lunch from home.

Drop Off and Pick Up Driveline FAQs

How long does Driveline take?

Driveline typically takes about 5-10 minutes during the school year. Please note that during the first few weeks at a new school or after long breaks, it may take up to 15 minutes as students and families become familiar with the process.

How does Driveline work?

When you arrive to pick up your child, you will enter one of the Driveline lanes. Please be sure to display your Driveline sign (provided on Back to School Night) clearly on your windshield. An ALP staff member will then radio your child’s teacher to send them out for dismissal.

Someone else is picking up my child today. Who do I tell?

Only individuals listed on your child’s Emergency Contact Form are authorized to pick up your child. To make changes or add someone new, please contact the front office in advance.

I forgot my Driveline sign. How do I get a replacement?

If you forget your Driveline sign, you will need to go into the front office and present a valid driver’s license to pick up your child. If you need a replacement sign, please request one through the office.

I need to pick my child up early for an appointment.

Please bring your photo ID and check in at the front office. To maintain a smooth dismissal process and limit disruptions, early pick-ups are not allowed during the last 15 minutes of the school day unless there is an emergency.