CNA Program Handbook (Part 3)

8. Attendance and Academic Policies

Attendance is critical to your success and required by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Students must complete 164 total hours of instruction, which includes both theory and clinical training.

Attendance Requirements

• No more than two absences are permitted in theory and two in clinical sessions.
• Students must contact their instructor at least two hours before class if absent.
• “No Call, No Show” absences are grounds for dismissal.
• Missed sessions must be made up to meet CDPH hour requirements.

Tardiness

Students arriving more than 15 minutes late will be marked tardy. Three tardies count as one absence.

Make-Up Sessions

Missed theory or clinical hours must be made up with instructor approval and scheduled within the current or next cohort (maximum 3 months).

Grading Policy

• Passing grade: 79% or higher
• Failing grade: 78% or below
• Students may retake one failed quiz or exam per subject.
• No rounding of grades or extra credit assignments.
• Late submissions receive zero credit unless pre-approved by the instructor.

Academic Integrity

Cheating, plagiarism, falsifying records, or sharing exam content are violations of the CAL ACE Code of Conduct and result in dismissal.

9. Clinical Policies and Expectations

Clinical training provides hands-on experience in a licensed healthcare facility. Students must demonstrate professionalism, safety, and respect for patients and staff at all times.

Clinical Attendance

• Students must complete 100–102 clinical hours.
• Missed clinical days must be made up to meet CDPH requirements.
• Failure to attend clinicals without notice may result in termination.

Dress Code

• Official teal CAL ACE uniform scrubs (clean and pressed)
• Closed-toe, non-skid shoes (white or black)
• Name badge visible at all times
• Hair tied back; no artificial nails or colored polish
• Minimal jewelry (wedding band, small earrings, watch)
• No perfumes, strong scents, or visible tattoos

Professional Conduct

• Always act respectfully toward patients, staff, and classmates.
• Follow all facility safety and infection control procedures.
• Never perform skills without instructor supervision.
• Protect patient confidentiality (HIPAA compliance required).

Clinical Performance Evaluation

Students are evaluated on skills, professionalism, attendance, communication, and teamwork. Unsatisfactory performance may require remediation or result in dismissal.

10. Confidentiality and Ethical Responsibilities

Students must comply with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations. Patient information may never be shared, photographed, or discussed outside of class or clinical settings.

• Do not record, post, or share any clinical activities on social media.
• Use patient initials only when documenting assignments.
• Violations of confidentiality may result in termination and legal consequences.

11. Student Support and Career Services

Academic Assistance

CAL ACE offers tutoring, study support, and academic advising to help you succeed. Students requiring accommodations due to disability should contact the Administrator for individualized support.

Career Placement Assistance

CAL ACE maintains partnerships with local healthcare employers. Graduates may receive job referrals, résumé assistance, and mock interviews.

• Partner facilities include Canyon Springs, Herman Healthcare, The Villas of Saratoga, Cedarwood Post-Acute, and Redwood Grove Post Acute.
• Visit https://cna.school/jobs for active listings.

Tuition Sponsorship

Some employers offer full tuition sponsorship in exchange for post-graduation employment. Contact the Registrar for availability.

12. Graduation and Certification

To graduate, students must:

• Complete all 164 required hours.
• Pass all written and skills assessments.
• Submit all documentation and settle tuition in full.

State CNA Certification Exam

• Consists of written/oral and skills components.
• Students may take the exam within 24 months of completion.
• CAL ACE will assist with application and scheduling.

After Graduation

• Receive Certificate of Completion and CDPH 283B Form.
• Gain access to CEUs for CNA license renewal.
• Eligible for advancement to LVN or ADN pathways at CAL ACE.

13. Communication and Contact Information

For questions, assistance, or documentation, please contact:

CAL ACE Nursing Academy
1535 Landess Avenue, Suite #103, Milpitas, CA 95035
Phone: (408) 256-0763
Email: calace@cna.school | staff@calace.training
Website: https://cna.school