Victory Baptist Academy Handbook

Transcription

1 Victory Baptist Academy Handbook OUR THIRTY-THIRD YEAR OF SERVICE

2 A Message from Pastor Roberts of every ability in the highest principles of Christian leadership. Christian education is unique in that it is based upon the Word of God and not man s ideas. All of our subjects are taught from a Biblical perspective allowing students to see that all things were created by God, are related to God, and continue by God s power (Colossians 1:16-17). Welcome to the Victory Baptist Academy family. I thank God for all of our parents who care enough to give their children a quality Christian education. Please take time to read this handbook completely, and note that an exception to a policy for one is not meant to be an exception for all. It will clearly lay before you our philosophy, procedures, standards, and goals. Because it is not an inerrant document, we reserve the right to change, modify, clarify, and interpret handbook policies at any time. Victory Baptist Academy was established in 1983 as a ministry of Victory Baptist Church that endeavors to meet the need of her church members as well as other Christian families or students of like faith to provide a Bible-based, Christian education. Acting as an extension of the home, the church has employed dedicated Christian teachers who have a sincere desire to see that the students obtain a sound education mentally, emotionally, physically, and most importantly, spiritually. Our goal is not to reform, but to train Christian young people If you desire further explanation or information, please contact the office personnel. It is essential that our lines of communication be kept open so that the school and home may harmoniously cooperate to provide the best educational experience possible for every child. I trust that this will be one of the greatest experiences of your life. Yours for Christian education, Dr. Rollan Roberts Pastor/Administrator PLEASE NOTE: VBA is a ministry to Protestant, Baptistic families, and regular church attendance is required of all our students. i

3 Statement of Faith We believe that all children of God should demonstrate their separation unto God and from the world system. This separation involves a fruitful, Spirit-filled life of obedience to the commands of Scripture and the refusal to associate with or become involved in anything that would bring reproach upon the character and work of Christ and His church. We are not in agreement with the modern-day charismatic tongues movement or the ecumenical movement. A complete statement of faith is located in the back of this booklet. Victory Baptist Academy holds to the statement of faith of Victory Baptist Church. A brief summary is as follows: We believe in the divine inspiration of the Scriptures; the triune God; the fallen nature of man and his just condemnation; the atoning death of Christ on the cross; His burial and bodily resurrection; salvation by grace through faith the free gift of God; the person of the Holy Spirit; the glorious display of God s purpose and grace; the progressive work of sanctification; the keeping power of God; the harmony of the law and the gospel; the prominence of the local and visible church; baptism by immersion; the honoring of civil government; the resurrection of the righteous to life and the wicked to damnation; the personal and imminent return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Victory Baptist Church and Academy has a racially nondiscriminatory policy and, therefore, shall not discriminate against members, applicants, students, or others on the basis of race, color, or ethnic origin in the admission of students. ii

4 Statement of Purpose and Philosophy The purpose of Christian education is the promotion and perfecting of God s image in the saved student resulting in the student s godliness of character and action. This teaching and nurturing process begins in the home and continues throughout life. The Christian school, in addition to the home and the church, is a place where the process of Christian education takes place. The foundation of Christian education is the Word of God. The Christian school has been established to enable parents to obey God s command to give their children a Christian education, while at the same time obeying the law of the land. Christian education is first and foremost the responsibility of the Christian home (Deut. 6:7). Another institution with Godgiven responsibility for education is the church (Matt. 28:18-20). Victory Baptist Academy acts in cooperation with the home and the church to produce Christ-likeness in its students. We believe that academic training should include a positive application of the Word of God to every area of learning. Evolutionary, humanistic, and materialistic philosophies should be unmasked and shown to be the frauds they really are. The great truths of the Bible, moreover, should be shown to be beautifully consistent with true science, accurate history, and valid intellectualism. It is also our belief that academic training should not only inform the student how to make a living but more importantly, how to live. In the Lord Jesus Christ, there is the life of salvation as well as service. A Christian school teaches children how to live by insisting upon proper discipline and Scriptural direction in the areas of morals and ethics. God is revealed in His rational creation, man, who having been created in the image of God, is the highest of God s works on earth. It is for this reason that the Christian school gives emphasis to humanities : the study of man s language, literature, artistic achievements, man s history, his logic in mathematical reasoning, and other forms of the natural world, God s creation. All of these taught from a Biblical perspective will bring wisdom and understanding of God s divine plan for mankind. It is the desire of Victory Baptist Academy to produce thoroughly furnished young people for the glory of God. iii

5 Table of Contents Dress Code Drop/Add Policy Electronic Media Faculty Field Trips The following page numbers are meant to be a guide. The actual page numbers may vary depending on device and screen size used. Financial Information Fundraisers Absences... 5 Achievement Testing... 6 Admission Procedures... 7 Awards... 8 Chapel and Bible Classes... 8 Church Attendance... 8 Closed Campus Policy... 8 Conferences... 9 Curriculum... 9 Daily Schedule... 9 Discipline Grade Scale Graduation Requirements Homeroom Homework Honor Roll/ Honor Society Insurance Lunch Medical Information Orientation Parent-Teacher Meetings Parties iv

6 Pledges Questions on Policies Report Cards Retention School Cancellations (Non-scheduled) Sports Student Conduct Tardiness Telephone Transportation Visitors Withdrawals and Dismissals Yearbook Alternative Dispute Resolution Policy Statement of Faith v

7 SECTION 1 Procedures & Policies (A-C) ABSENCES In order to gain the most from school, each student must be regular in attendance. Absences should always be avoided if possible. It is, however, advisable for a student to stay home for at least 24 hours after recovering from a fever or communicable disease. Do not send your child to school with a fever, or he will be sent back home. A student must be in attendance at least 3 ½ hours of a school day in order to be credited with being present a ½ day. A student must be in attendance at least 6 hours of a school day to be credited with being present a full day. Half-day absences do count against perfect attendance. Doctor, dental, music and other appointments should be scheduled after school hours. When it is necessary for a student to be absent, the following will be required: 1. When a student is absent for more than one day, parents should contact the teacher(s) and pick up any work that can be completed during the absence. 2. If the absence is lengthy or due to a serious illness or contagious disease, a note from a physician should accompany the student back to school. 3. Parents must provide a written explanation (signed and dated) when the student returns to school or the absence will be considered unexcused until such has been done. The note must be given to the teacher within three school days. Excused absences will permit the absentee to make up work assignments upon returning to school. This work must be made up. Absences for the following reasons will be considered excused: 1. Personal illness or family illness which requires the student s presence. 2. Death in the immediate family. 3. Absences due to an unforeseen emergency. Planned absences from a class, such as absences due to family vacations or traveling out of town, will be excused only when parents notify the teacher(s) at least 24 hours in advance to make arrangements for missed work. Students in grades 6-12 will be responsible for having all missed work completed upon return to school and will not be given extra days to make up work. Students must have completed all missed or scheduled quizzes or tests by or on the day they return to school. 6

8 All non-emergency absences or absences for the sake of convenience of the parent or student will be considered unexcused (i.e. skipping school, parents allowing an older student to remain at home to baby-sit so that parents may go to work, student going to work early, hunting, etc.). A student whose absence from a class is unexcused will not be allowed to make up work missed. A zero will be given for all homework given, quizzes, and tests missed during an unexcused absence (includes ½ day absences). When a student is absent from a class for an excusable reason, all assigned make-up work should be completed within an allotted time (typically, one day per day of absence). Consideration will be given to the length of absence and the amount of work to be made up. It is the student s responsibility to obtain make-up work assignments upon returning to school. If a student needs help with any assignments, the student should make special arrangements with the teacher(s) for help. Our teachers are very interested in the individual progress of every student in Victory Baptist Academy. When work needs to be made up, the parents will also need to spend extra time and effort helping their child catch up to the proper level. The school year will consist of a minimum of 180 days. Excessive absences will inhibit the student s progress and may result in disciplinary action. If a student is absent for more than thirty days during a school year, VBA reserves the right to retain the student at the same grade level. In high school (9-12), this would result in loss of credit for any course in which the student has accumulated fifteen absences in one semester. In cases of serious illness or other unusual circumstances, the administration will review each individual s record and make a decision. Any student who misses 20 days during the school year for any reason will be placed on impending probation, 25 days and the student will be placed on probation, and absences of more than 25 days will require a doctor s excuse. ACHIEVEMENT TESTING Each year VBA administers a variety of achievement tests. We use nationally recognized comprehensive tests. The results help the teachers and administrator determine individual and school curriculum weaknesses and strengths. All juniors and seniors are given the opportunity to take the P- SAT/NMSQT, ACT, and SAT test. Students must pay the standard fees that are charged. ADMISSION PROCEDURES 1. Obtain the necessary enrollment forms from the office. Complete and return the forms after reading them carefully. Include the registration fee at this time (non-refundable). 2. Provide up-to-date student health records, a birth certificate issued by the state, and proof of immunizations. 7

9 3. New applicants may be required to take diagnostic tests and/or provide recent scores from a national achievement test. 4. Kindergarten applicants must be four or five respectively by Oct. 1st. 5. Parents and applicants must be willing to be interviewed by the administration prior to acceptance. 6. It is not the normal policy of VBA to accept students after the second semester has already begun or students who have been expelled from another school. 7. Students who leave VBA to attend an area school should not expect to be re-admitted to VBA at a later date. 8. All first-year students will be automatically placed on academic probation for their first nine weeks. If it is determined during this time that the student cannot meet minimal standards, VBA reserves the right to require further diagnostic testing, placement of the student in a lower grade, or withdrawal if we are unable to meet the student s needs. 9. Prospective students who are physically challenged must be able to safely maneuver themselves without staff or student assistance (i.e. rest room, books, eating lunch, etc.). Acceptance of students is based on achievement, prior education history, the testing program, an interview with the administration, and openings in the particular grade levels. Family life, church status, and general behavior are also carefully considered. Victory Baptist Academy is not equipped to accept problem, married, or divorced students, or those who will be 21 years of age by the time of graduation. Victory Baptist Church and Academy has a racially nondiscriminatory policy and, therefore, shall not discriminate against members, applicants, students, and others on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin in admission of students. Note: Applications for enrollment and re-enrollment will be approved at the sole discretion of the school. No student has a right to be enrolled or re-enrolled in VBA. AWARDS Students are challenged at VBA to do their very best for Christ, both at and away from school. Awards are given to reward excellence in our students. Awards will be given periodically during the year and at the end of the year. A student must be enrolled on the day awards are given in order to receive an award. This includes sports awards. CHAPELS AND BIBLE CLASSES Bible classes are a regular part of the school curriculum. Baptistic beliefs will be emphasized. This includes witnessing to unsaved persons. Chapel services are held each week. No student is to be excused from attendance unless approved by the office. Students will be encouraged to be saved and live a dedicated Christian life. The authorized King James Version is the 8

10 only English version that is acceptable at VBA. Scripture memorization is included in our curriculum requirements. CHURCH ATTENDANCE Weekly church attendance is required of our students. The parents, upon enrollment, agree to this. Church attendance will be checked on a weekly basis (except kindergarten). Failure to attend services at a local church on a weekly basis will be grounds for expulsion if the problem persists for two quarters in any given school year. Parents should do all they can to see that their children regularly attend church. Jobs that interfere with church attendance are not considered proper student employment. Remember, VBA seeks to cooperate with the home AND the church to produce thoroughly furnished young people for the glory of God. CLOSED CAMPUS POLICY VBA operates as a closed campus, which simply means that attendance is required during the entire school day in grades K5-12 regardless of the number of free periods a student may have. Seniors who attend college classes, vocational education, or have employment responsibilities during school hours may request to have their schedules adjusted by the administration. After arriving at school in the morning, no student may leave the campus without permission from his parents and the administration. The checkout sheet must be signed when a student leaves early. After school, those students waiting for rides for extracurricular activities may not leave the school campus without permission from their parents and the administration. Any parents, guests, or visitors to the campus must check-in with office personnel upon arrival. The only organizations, functions, activities, music or doctrinal positions that may be promoted or endorsed among the student body will be those initiated by the administration of Victory Baptist Church. CONFERENCES (Parent-Teacher) Parents are urged to seek a conference with a teacher/coach at any time it is deemed necessary. Teachers/coaches welcome opportunities to talk with parents; however, appointments should be made so as not to conflict with regular duties. Parents are not to go directly to a classroom before, during, or after school hours without having prearranged the interruption. Parents must contact the office first or call to make an appointment. Messages may be left for teachers to return calls at their earliest convenience. A phone call or an appointment with the principal is not to be made until a conference with the teacher/ coach is conducted first to try to resolve the particular problem. Most problems can be worked out when they are discussed between the teachers/coaches and those directly involved. Please do not involve other parents, students, etc. who are not part of the problem or the solution. 9

11 CURRICULUM We use the ABeka Book curriculum, which is designed to help each student advance as rapidly as possible, yet places no student under undue pressures that would result in frustration. It is the intent of VBA to help the student develop proper habits of study with a planned and varied program. a.m. bell. Students who are tardy must enter through the main entrance to get a tardy slip from the office. Please remember, students are counted tardy if they are not in their respective classroom/homeroom by the 8:10 bell. We hold that the classroom has two immediate authorities the teacher and the textbooks. Both must be God-centered and challenge not only the mental capabilities of the child, but also the spiritual capabilities. Our students are the product of a Christian education that meets the needs of the whole individual without sacrificing the fundamental skills of academics. DAILY SCHEDULE Kindergarten hours are 8:10 a.m. to 2:55 p.m. Grades 1-2 have classes from 8:10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Grades 3-4 have classes from 8:10 a.m. to 3:05 p.m. Grades 5-6 have classes from 8:10 a.m. to 3:05 p.m. Grades 7-12 have classes from 8:10 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Students may not arrive before 7:45 a.m. and must be picked up by 3:20 p.m., unless arrangements have been made for after-school care. School office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The school doors will be unlocked at 7:45 a.m. for students to enter the building each morning. Do not drop students off early and leave them. The elementary door will be locked at the 8:10 10

12 SECTION 2 Discipline * Display courtesy and respect for others (I Corinthians 10:31) * Cooperate with others in playing and working (Proverbs 20:4) * Exhibit neatness in person and property (I Corinthians 14:40) * Manifest truthfulness and honesty in work and life (Proverbs 12:22; 19:9) DISCIPLINE The aim of discipline at VBA is to assist the student in developing a lifestyle consistent with God s expectation for daily living*. Christ is the ultimate spiritual example, and the teacher is the adult Christian example to the student. The purpose of our discipline procedures is to create that consistency and reflect a sense of fairness. An exception to a policy for one is not meant to be an exception for all. The goal of our discipline will be to develop character that will enable the student to do the following: * Respect property (Romans 12:21) * Be prompt in attendance and assignments (Psalm 5:12) * Exhibit cheerful obedience to authority (Hebrews 13:7-9) * Show responsibility in completing assigned or expected tasks (Proverbs 13:4) * Exhibit morally good conduct in respect to recreation, social relationships, and language (I Thessalonians 5:22) * Develop Christian love for others as shown by a sensitivity to their needs and feelings (I Corinthians 13). While a complete listing is not possible, the following infractions are unacceptable: disrespect, disobedience, talking without proper recognition, getting out of seat without permission, chewing gum, fighting; running, throwing objects; loud talking inside the building; profane or inappropriate language, damaging or taking other people s property; horseplay (tripping, shoving, practical jokes, making fun of, name calling, etc.); lying; use of any form of tobacco, alcoholic beverage, or drugs; passing, writing, or possessing unapproved notes anytime throughout the school day; griping, criticizing, dancing; gambling; cheating or assisting in cheating; failure to report offensive behavior of any kind; bringing unapproved magazines, literature, videos or pictures, radios, tape players, or electronic gadgets or games; guns, knives, or potentially dan- 11

13 gerous toys; talking about questionable movies; bringing glass containers (includes pop bottles); defacing school property; leaving school grounds without permission from parents and school office; indiscriminate or inappropriate contact with other students; and listening to or talking about rock, country, contemporary Christian, or other unacceptable music or musicians. Teachers are given the primary responsibility for the handling of all discipline problems that arise in the classroom. Students are counseled firmly and fairly with love, good judgment, and understanding to encourage correct conduct in the future. When necessary, discipline measures may include the following: 1. INSTRUCTION A presentation of the rules, starting with the first day of school. 2. CLARIFICATION Teachers clarify the rules and enforce them. 3. WRITTEN RECORD OF A PROBLEM The teacher may keep a written record. 4. PHONE CONVERSATION Teachers phone the home, the problem is outlined, and positive suggestions are given. 5. DEMERITS Sixth through twelfth grade students may be given up to two demerits per day without receiving a detention. Three or more demerits will result in a detention. 6. DETENTION Detention is used primarily to correct academic or behavioral problems. It should alert the parent to a problem that is developing. This is also an indication that parents need to take action at home so that the teacher s time is not consumed with problems but with academic instruction. 7. PARENT CONFERENCE Teacher(s) meet with parents to correct a problem. 8. IMPENDING PROBATION This is an attempt of the school to encourage further parental involvement before probation occurs. A notice of impending probation will be sent home for many offenses but not necessarily all offenses. 9. PROBATION Probation is used to encourage character development in students who are having difficulty maintaining school standards. Probation makes parents aware of problem areas such as tardiness, behavior, or academic deficiencies that need to be immediately corrected. Failure to take the steps needed to correct the problem will result in suspension. 10. SUSPENSION Students are suspended for a period of time normally one or three days) to correct academic/ behavior difficulties and are placed on probation for the rest of the year. Suspended students will receive a zero on any tests, quizzes, or homework given during the suspension period. A student that is suspended will be disqualified from receiving any honors for sports and at the awards ceremony or graduation. Some suspensions may be in-school. 12

14 11. EXPULSION The student will be dismissed from VBA by the principal or administrator. This may be enacted whether or not an infraction has taken place on or off the school campus. A third suspension in the same year may result in automatic expulsion. * Discipline may be extended whether the offense is committed on or off the church/school property. NOTE: In grades 6-12, a student will be placed on impending probation when detention time reaches 1 hour within a quarter and on probation when detention time reaches 2 hours within a quarter. Suspension may result when detention time exceeds 3 hours within a quarter at the discretion of the discipline council. Any student who is suspended or expelled from Victory Baptist Academy is automatically disqualified from receiving honors of any kind during the current school year and may not attend any school functions (during the suspension period or after expulsion) without special permission from the administrator in advance. 13

15 SECTION 3 Dress Code The purpose of the dress code is to guide students in establishing a consistent, conservative appearance that will present Christ and Christians in the best possible manner. Parents and guests of students are requested to comply with the dress code while on school property and while attending academy functions. Victory Baptist Academy seeks to follow the guidelines established in God s Word for His people. We believe the Bible establishes at least three standards for Christian dress modesty (obviously discreet), distinction (obviously reveals gender), and identification (obviously reflects a conservative Christ-like appearance). These three, when properly balanced with other Christian virtues, will create the best possible atmosphere for Christian young people to be free to attain both academic and spiritual growth. The administration reserves the right to define terms such as modest, appropriate, etc. and interpret the rules in this handbook. Having our dress-code standards carefully defined is a wonderful help to parents and students who want to cooperate and keep them. It is our sincere desire to see our boys grow up as fine young men and our girls as fine young ladies. We trust that you will understand that the reason for a dress code is to help strengthen your family. Experience has taught us that the dress code is often a point of friction among home, student, and school. We sincerely pray that you understand our concern and love for our students, and that you will take whatever measures are necessary to see that your child dresses obviously well within the standards set by Victory Baptist Academy. In an attempt to avoid misunderstandings, the following specific dress code standards have been established: ALL STUDENTS 1. No misuse or disrespect toward the national colors will be permitted. 2. Shirts, blouses, sweatshirts, lunchboxes, shoes, hats, and notebooks may not have writing, designs, or pictures that conflict with Christian principles or are deemed inappropriate. A good rule-of-thumb to remember is, if it is questionable (by inference or suggestion) refrain from wearing it or using it. The administration is the final authority on what is and what is not acceptable. 14

16 3. Students are expected to use good taste and judgment in their choice of dress and grooming habits at all times. Parents are responsible for the attire of their child and may be asked to bring appropriate attire to school in the event of an infraction. Public school or other Christian school emblems, symbols, writings, or pictures are not in good taste and should be avoided. Outer garments or accessory items are not to present a slouchy, sloppy, or immodest appearance. 4. Shoes should be in good shape and not ragged or torn. Tennis shoes are acceptable. Shoes with wheels in them are not allowed. 5. Adherence to school dress code policies is required for a student s participation in or admission to any school activity or athletic function of VBA. We ask that parents, when possible, follow school dress guidelines also for all school-related events and when on school or church property. 6. Military fatigues and athletic wear are not permitted. Official VBA spirit-wear may be worn on Mondays. Spirit-wear must be plainly visible and not covered by a sweatshirt, sweater, jacket, or coat. Blue denim clothing, including jackets, is allowed on Mondays. Clothing that is accented lightly or trimmed with blue denim is acceptable on Tuesday through Friday. Blue denim accessories (lunch boxes, book bags, notebooks, purses, and shoes) are allowed every day. 7. Extremism in dress (belt buckles, jackets, socks, shoes, hose, fingernail polish, jewelry, etc.), hair, or make-up is not acceptable. The administration will be the final authority on what is appropriate and modest in all areas of hairstyle and dress and the enforcement thereof. 8. Detention, suspension, or non-admission to classes or activities may be exercised for dress code violators. 9. All junior high and senior high dress code violations (such as, but not limited to shirts without fold-down collars, improper slits, no belt, any blue denim clothing worn Tuesday through Friday, etc.) will accumulate demerits on a yearly basis. Example: A first offense dress code violation will be one demerit. A second offense dress code violation will be two demerits. A third offense dress code violation, and every offense thereafter, will be a 20 minute detention. Demerits for dress code violations will be added to other demerits received during the day. Hair violations will accumulate the same way as dress code violations except as a separate category. The hairstyle is not to emulate the latest fads of the world, have a messed-up look, or appear unkempt. 10. Any student who wears clothing that is deemed immodest (such as, but not limited to dresses or skirts above the middle of the knee, blouses that are too low or revealing, boy s or girl s clothing that is too tight, etc.) will call home for proper attire. The student will remain in the office until a parent arrives. A zero will be given for each missed test and quiz. It is possible that the student could sit in the office all day if no one can bring the proper attire. No class work may be done while in the office. 15

17 11. Students (6th-12th only) may not wear T-shirts with writing or pictures, sweatshirts, or tennis shoes, on the designated chapel day. Boys should wear traditional style pants. Students should dress up for chapel day. 12. Jackets or coats may not be worn in classrooms unless the individual teacher deems it necessary. 13. Tattoos, whether permanent or temporary, are not to be worn by VBA students. 14. Monday dress code may be worn on two-hour delay days. Elementary students will receive a dress code reminder for each violation. BOYS 1. Hair must be neatly trimmed so that it does not touch the eyebrows, or go over the ears or collar. Hair is not to be highlighted. The body of the hair is to be short, reasonably thinned out, balanced, and tapered appearance (no duck tails, rat tails, etc.) to give a well-groomed conservative look. It is our desire that boys not be on the borderline in this area. Boys should be clean-shaven. Sideburns should be neat and no lower than the bottom of the ear or higher than the top of the ear. Hair care products should be lightly applied in good taste. When hair is out of code, a notice will be sent home stipulating the date by which the correction is to be made. Haircut violations will accumulate in the same way as dress code violations, except they will be in their own category. 2. Boys may not wear necklaces, earrings, fingernail polish, or bracelets. Boys may not wear clogs, flip flops, or sandals of any type. 3. Neat and clean shirts with sleeves and fold-down collars are required. Most of the collar must be obviously visible at all times. Shirts must be tucked in unless designed with a waistband. Shirts are to remain tucked in (except when playing in the gym or outside) and properly buttoned at all times (all except the top button). When a tie is worn, the top button of the shirt should be buttoned and the tie snug to the neck in a proper manner. Ties must be worn on the day of chapel each week (6th-12th only). Undershirts may not have writing or pictures on them. Turtleneck shirts may be worn only as undershirts with a collared shirt over them. 4. Slacks that are properly hemmed and fitted and are predominantly one (conservative) color are appropriate (no sweat pants, athletic pants, parachute pants, side-zipped pants, or visibly patched pants). Belts are to be worn on all slacks designed for them unless coordinating suspenders are worn. Pants must be properly hemmed- no frayed or fringed edges. Front zippers may not have emblems or tassels to draw attention. 5. Fleece-type jackets may not be worn as shirts. Hoodies, sweaters or sweatshirts worn over a collared shirt do not have to be tucked in, but they must have a square waistband that can be no longer than the top of the leg. Hoodies may be worn (over a collared shirt) on Fridays only. 16

18 6. Boys may wear T-shirts tucked or untucked at athletic events. GIRLS 1. Dresses, skirts, and culottes are to be no shorter than the mid-knee in length at any time when standing, walking, or sitting. Culottes are acceptable for activities where they are specifically allowed by the administration. Dresses, skirts, tops, and culottes should be chosen to fit modestly, with an appropriately chosen style, fabric, and fit. No portion of the hem of the dress, skirt, or culottes should rise above the middle of the knee when standing, walking, or sitting. Slits in dresses or skirts that are obviously below the middle of the knee and are modest do not need to be sewn. Slits in dresses or skirts must be sewn if any part of the slit comes above the bottom of the knee when standing, walking, or sitting. Button-down dresses and skirts must be sewn from the last button down to the middle of the knee. Parents should pay particular attention to growing girls in order that their clothing will not become too short or too tight as the school year progresses. 2. Girls (6-12) may not wear shirts with writing except for brand name logos. 3. Sun dresses or sleeveless tops may only be worn with a blouse that is not sheer (see-thru). Wrap-around skirts may not be worn unless sewn to obviously below the bottom of the knee. Tops of blouses or dresses should be no lower than three inches from the base of the neck in the front or back. 4. Bare shoulder, bare back, midriff, sheer (see-thru), formfitting, or low-cut dresses and blouses are not permissible in the classroom, at formal banquets, or other school activities. The back or sleeves of sweaters, dresses, or blouses should not reveal undergarments. No off-the-shoulder formal dresses are permitted. All school rules apply in formal settings. 5. If make-up is used, it should be light and in good taste. Jewelry should also be in good taste. No more than two rings per hand are allowed (except for married staff). Rings must go down the full length of the finger. No more than two earrings on the lower ear lobe are allowed per ear. Knuckle and toe rings are not allowed. Hairstyles are to be conservative, wellgroomed, obviously feminine, and not faddish (as in subculture fads, i.e. hair-coloring, masculine type short cuts, etc.). Hair must be dry when you arrive at school. Elementary girls (K-5th) may not wear make-up of any kind or press-on nails. 6. Nail art must be conservative and may not violate Christian principles. Solid black polish is not acceptable. 7. Hoodies may be worn on Fridays only. 8. Girls (6-12) may not wear socks visibly on chapel days. 9. Only non-shedding glitter may be worn. 17

19 SECTION 4 Procedures & Policies (E-S) Electronic games are permitted in elementary only when they are approved by the teacher. No electronic media is permitted at special events other than for taking appropriate pictures. CDs, DVDs, computerized storage or game cards, etc. that violate VBA standards are not to be in a student s possession. A staff member must be able to see the monitor at all times when a student is permitted to use the internet. FACULTY ELECTRONIC DEVICES The following policies are in place as an attempt to avoid the many pitfalls of modern media interaction in educational circles. Schools across the country are annually having to address and adjust policies concerning this topic. Cellular phones, computers, pagers, mp3 players, ipods, and any other personal electronic devices must be turned off, may not be kept on a student s person, and may not be used (without teacher s permission) from 7:45 until dismissal. Phones, cameras and audio or video recorders may not be used without special permission from the classroom teacher. No ear buds or ear phones are permitted at any school activity. The faculty of VBA is carefully selected to provide students with the best possible educational opportunities. They are approved academically, morally, spiritually, and physically by the administration. All faculty members are competent in their academic fields and are capable of maintaining a proper learning atmosphere. More importantly, all faculty members are born-again Christians who love the Lord and are consecrated to serving Him through the ministry of teaching. The foremost requirements for our faculty are an unselfish dedication to Christian education, a sincere love for children, and a complete devotion to their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. FIELD TRIPS Field trips are taken at various times during the school year to places of educational interest. Such trips will be used to reinforce relevant classroom teaching in a specific subject area. Often parents serve as helpers for these trips. If you would like to be involved in assisting for one (or more) of these trips, 18

20 simply notify the teacher(s). Parent drivers must provide proof of insurance and licensure. The parents give permission for students to attend field trips at enrollment time. Field trips are limited to VBA students of the particular class/ grade(s) attending. Please refer to the guidelines under transportation in this handbook for policies that apply to field trips. FINANCIAL INFORMATION The enrollment fee is nonrefundable and due upon registration. Tuition is computed on an annual basis and includes books as well as normal curriculum fees. For the convenience of parents, the annual tuition may be paid in full or paid over ten months (August 5-May 5). This is not to be construed to mean that the amount paid in a given month is for services rendered in a given month. Tuition will be prorated for a student registering after the school term has begun. Payments are due by the fifth of the month unless arranged otherwise at the beginning of the year. A late fee of $10.00 will be charged if the payment is not made in full by the fifteenth of the month. When tuition falls more than thirty days behind, the student(s) may not be admitted to school until the account is brought up to date. Report cards will not be sent home at the end of any grading period in which the account is in arrears. The parents in the homeroom teacher s classroom may however, view the report card. By signing the Parental Understanding and Commitment Pledge form, you are authorizing the school to withhold report cards and transcripts until tuition and other fees have been paid in full. An exception to a financial policy for one is not meant to be an exception for all. It is IMPERATIVE that we receive your tuition payment on time. Our teachers salaries and other expenses of our school are due on a regular basis and need to be paid on time. Our testimony to the community is very important because it reflects upon the ministry of both Victory Baptist Church and the Lord Jesus Christ. We reserve the right to use enrollment, tuition, gifts, and fundraising moneys for whatever we deem necessary for the overall ministry. Special fees may be needed for field trips, parties, art supplies, elective courses, or other extracurricular activities. Such fees will be collected by the teacher/coach involved. The student must pay for books or other items that are the property of VBA and are lost or excessively worn. FUNDRAISERS Victory Baptist Academy operates on tuition, gifts, and fundraising programs during the year. Students may be asked to help the school raise money on a voluntary basis. Parents and students who participate would be taking part in a special program by giving of their time in a constructive effort to the educational institution to which they entrust their children. While the needs are great, discretion will be used in the number of such activities, and to whom contact is made for contributions. Participation is strictly on a volunteer basis. 19

21 GRADE SCALE The following scale will be used for all quizzes, tests, themes, special reports, and report cards: (In grades 9-12 full credit courses will count twice and half credit courses will count once in determining GPA.) Letter Percentage Quality Points (GPA) A General or learning disability courses of study are to be pursued only by those students who cannot achieve the prescribed course of study. The administration reserves the right to determine which program any given student may or may not pursue. The following guidelines are set forth for graduation requirements: Minimum Prescribed Course of Study B C D F GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Victory Baptist Academy requires the successful completion of an academic program that exceeds the minimum graduation requirements set by the state of West Virginia. Our basic course of study for all students is to prepare them for college whether they go or not. Bible 1 English 4 Math 4 Social Science 4 Science 4 Spanish 1 P. E. 1 Health 1 Electives 6 Minimum Credits 26 20

22 As determined at the end of the 1st semester by cumulative grade average, a senior may graduate with the following honors: Summa Cum Laude: Gold Magna Cum Laude: Silver Cum Laude: Bronze Valedictorian, salutatorian, and other senior class rankings, if used, are also determined at the end of the first semester each year. Areas considered are as follows: cumulative grade average, grade point average, core grade point average, number of credits earned by the end of the first semester of the senior year, and Christian character. The ACT/SAT score, if taken, may also be considered. These rankings assume that students will continue the same academic performance and/or Christian character throughout their second semester. A student must have attended VBA for both their junior and senior years in order to be considered for valedictorian or salutatorian. The final approval of the appointee(s) will rest with the administrator. The administrator reserves the right to waive the appointment of these rankings at any time. Seniors and their parents are responsible for securing scholarships and any other financial aid for college. NOTE: A graduation fee will be added to the May tuition payment for both K5 and high school graduates. Seniors may not receive their final report card or diploma, or participate in graduation exercises if their account is not paid in full. High school students who transfer to VBA may be required to take courses during the summer or extra courses during the school year if they are lacking in any state requirements. HOMEROOM Students in grades 6-12 must go directly to the Saint Room when they arrive at school in the morning. They may go to their respective homeroom when the 8:05 bell rings. HOMEWORK Believing that homework is an integral part of the school program, each teacher is at liberty to give homework to aid the students to advance in their studies. It should always be done neatly, accurately, and on time. Homework is given for several reasons. 1. For reinforcement. We believe that most students require adequate review to master material essential to their educational process. 2. For practice. Following classroom explanation, illustration, and review of new work, homework is given so that the material will be mastered. 3. For remedial activity. As instruction progresses, various weak points in a student s grasp of a subject become evi- 21

23 dent. Homework, following instruction, is given to overcome such difficulties. 4. For special projects. Book reports, compositions, special research assignments, and projects are some of the activities that are frequently the subject of homework attention. 5. For emphasis on character building. It is the responsibility of each student to successfully complete every homework assignment and turn it in on time. If your child is not in the habit of having homework or has never developed proper study habits, he will need your assistance at home. Consistently provide your child a scheduled time with which to do homework in a quiet atmosphere without distractions (TV, radio, younger children, etc.). Delinquent homework will result in academic penalties, demerits, detention, or suspension. HONOR ROLL Our Honor Roll program is one way we reward those students that strive for and achieve outstanding academic marks. There are two levels. The higher level is the Principal s List, and the second level is the Honor Roll. The Principal s List will be comprised of students maintaining a grade point average within a grading period. The Honor Roll will be comprised of students maintaining a grade point average within a grading period. A student must not make any grade lower than a C and must be on level in order to be considered for the Honor Roll program. Recognition of these students will be made at the end of each grading period. In order to receive an honor certificate at the awards ceremony, a student must have been on the Principal s List or the Honor Roll for at least three grading periods. HONOR SOCIETY To be a member of the American Christian Honor Society (Chapter #752 since 2010), a student must be in grades 9 through 11 (12th grade students will be recognized at the awards ceremony also). The student must exhibit Christian character, have a desire to serve, and have made the Honor Roll (or higher) all four quarters. Students will receive a certificate stating their membership. Those students who have been on the Principal s List for at least three of four quarters will be additionally recognized with a gold seal to be placed on their membership certificate. In addition to proper character and academics, the student must be willing to commit to at least two Christian service activities sponsored by the VBA chapter. Failure to take part in these activities will be reason for being disqualified from being a member the following year. INSURANCE VBA has a supplemental student policy for all students, but it does not replace the parent s policy. Please contact the office for more information. Any accidents/injuries connected with 22

24 the school, on or off school property, must be reported to the school office personnel immediately. LUNCH Students bring sack lunches from home. Snacks and soft drinks are available in the Saint Room. Food or drinks are not to be taken out of the Saint Room. Glass containers should not be used due to the danger of breakage. No microwaveable foods are permitted. Parents or visitors are discouraged from eating lunch with students on school grounds. This creates a distraction from their normal routine. Occasionally, hot dogs, pizza, chili, tacos, etc. may be offered for lunch meals. A special notice will be issued for such events. Candy or snack items are not permitted in the halls. Reward candy must be eaten in the classroom where it was received. Candy is not to be kept in lockers. Students are not to give out candy. If a notice concerning exposure to head lice is distributed, parents are asked to do their best to check and, if necessary, treat their child immediately. Teachers will also discreetly check any students who have been exposed. ORIENTATION Students are expected to comply with the regular school dress code and hair standards at orientation. Students will not be admitted to classes on the first day of school if they do not meet dress and hair standards. The purpose for orientation is to assist students and their parents in becoming familiar with school policies and procedures. It will also provide a get acquainted time for parents, students, and teachers. PARENT-TEACHER MEETINGS (PTM) PTM is designed to enable parents to follow the progress and development of their children. All parents are urged to attend PTM. MEDICAL INFORMATION No medication, including aspirin/acetaminophen, is to be kept in a student s possession or locker. If it is necessary for a student to take medication during the school day, it must be given to the student s teacher with specific instructions for administering. VBA cannot provide medication. PARTIES Parties are not school-sponsored unless parents receive notification from the school office/teacher. Be cautious concerning parties that are not school-sponsored. Parents may send goodies for their child s birthday. Make arrangements with the teacher two days in advance for such an occasion. Stu- 23

25 dents may be asked to bring a minimal amount of money or food supplies to help with seasonal parties. PLEDGES The entire student body is required to memorize and recite the pledge of allegiance to the Bible, as well as to the American and Christian flags. QUESTIONS ON VBA POLICIES If a question or misunderstanding arises concerning a policy or disciplinary action, please use the proper channels in resolving the situation. Always give staff members the benefit of the doubt and contact them by a telephone call or note, and schedule a conference, if necessary. Should the problem still not be worked out, a conference with the parents, teacher/coach, and principal may be set. Realize that the school has reasons for all rules and that they are enforced as objectively as possible. Please heed the following guidelines: 1. Do not try to talk to the teacher during school hours or coach during practice, whether by phone or in person. 2. Do not contact the principal or administrator first. Contact the teacher/coach through the office or (if absolutely necessary) at home before 8:00 p.m. 3. Do not discuss your problems with other parents or other staff members. They cannot solve your problems with a teacher/coach. 4. The common goals of Christian teachers and parents can be more readily achieved when a friendly, open relationship exists between the home and the school. Do your best to keep emotions under control while seeking a solution to a problem. NOTE: If a student, parent, or guardian chooses not to follow these guidelines and verbally or physically abuses any staff member, he will cause one of two disciplinary actions to take place. The student in question will either be suspended or expelled, at the discretion of the administrator. RETENTION In grades 1-8, any student receiving a yearly grade of F in three subjects will automatically be retained. If any student in grades 1-8 receives an F as a yearly grade in phonics, reading, English, or math, he will have to complete schoolapproved tutoring (minimum of 20 hours) in the failed subject before he will be promoted. Any student in grades 9-12 who fails 3 core subjects (English, Math, Social Science, or Science) may be retained. Those failing fewer than 3 classes may receive a passing grade of 65 for that subject by means of school-approved tutoring during the summer (minimum of 20 hours per subject). Documentation must be placed in the student s permanent record. 24