Middle/High School Student Handbook

Transcription

1 Middle/High School Student Handbook

2 Grace C hristian Academy Middle/High School Handbook MISSION... 4 EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY... 4 DISTINCTIVES... 4 SPIRITUAL LIFE... 4 STATEMENT OF FAITH... 4 SPIRITUAL FORMATION... 6 SERVICE & MISSIONS... 7 ACADEMICS... 7 STANDARDIZED TESTING... 7 GRADING SCALE & REPORT CARDS... 7 HOMEWORK & STUDYING... 8 GCA HOMEWORK POLICY... 8 HONOR ROLL AND ACADEMIC RECOGNITION... 8 NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY... 8 PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE... 9 PROGRESS REPORTS... 9 RETENTION... 9 ATHLETICS... 9 MISSION STATEMENT... 9 PHILOSOPHY... 9 ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY... 9 ATHLETIC ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL PARTICIPATION FEES OUR COACHES OUR PARENTS OUR ATHLETES TRANSPORTATION OF ATHLETES

3 ATHLETIC PARENT MEETINGS SCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC OFFERINGS PE EXPECTATIONS GENERAL POLICIES ATTENDANCE PROCEDURE FOR EARLY DISMISSAL (FOR APPOINTMENTS, ETC.) EARLY DISMISSAL LATE WORK MAKE-UP WORK BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE CAMPUS VISITORS CHANGE OF ADDRESS CLASSROOM PROCEDURES DRESS CODE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES GUIDELINES FOR CLASS PARTIES AND FIELD TRIPS IMMUNIZATIONS MEDICATIONS PROHIBITED ITEMS PERSONAL PROPERTY PLAGIARISM OFF CAMPUS BEHAVIOR TARDY TIER TELEPHONE USE CELL PHONE USE CELL PHONE CLASSROOM PROCEDURES DISCIPLESHIP DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES DISCIPLINE TIER: GCA Code Of Conduct DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS INCLEMENT WEATHER MISCELLANEOUS PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITES

4 Middle/High School Student Handbook MISSION The mission of Grace Christian Academy is to assist Christian families in the teaching of their children by providing them an experiential education that is distinctively Christian, biblically saturated, Christ glorifying, academically excellent, and service and mission oriented. We exist to help parents cultivate the legacy of Christ's hope in each student and to prepare them to spread that hope along every avenue God provides. Educational Philosophy At Grace Christian Academy, we believe the chief end and purpose of man is to glorify God. We aim to produce students who are committed to excellence in all things, with the understanding that it glorifies God when they apply themselves to the fullest. We believe that an excellent education is founded upon disciplined attention to learning; that this discipline rests upon the student s moral character; and that this moral character can best be developed through a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. All students will be encouraged to develop wisdom, discernment, love for learning, and a heart for service. Our teachers will be committed to the vital task of teaching students how to think, reason, and process information in order to make wise and biblically grounded decisions. Distinctives Grace Christian Academy is committed to Using the Word of God as the roadmap for everyday decisions. (I Timothy 3:16-17) Practicing Stewardship in all areas of school life. (Colossians 3:17) Serving others not only in our community but also throughout the country and world. (Mark 10:45) Striving to be Christ-centered in every situation by displaying the fruit of the spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23) Partnering with Christian families by providing an educational environment that is consistent with the standards of their church and home. (Deuteronomy 4:9) Providing an excellent education that meets or exceeds all local, state and national standards. (I Peter 2:17) Employing excellent faculty and staff who are committed to serving the Lord by providing an excellent educational experience. (Luke 6:40) SPIRITUAL LIFE Statement Of Faith The basis of Grace Christian Academy is the infallible written Word of God, known as the Scriptures of the Old and the New Testaments, as they are interpreted in the historic, evangelical confessions of the Christian faith. In accordance with these confessions, we hold unreservedly to the sovereignty of God as taught in Scripture and as specifically revealed in the Lordship of Jesus Christ over the world and over every part of life. Thus, we recognize these Scriptures as the supreme and final standard for life. Grace Christian 4

5 Academy is not a church nor is it subject to any ecclesiastical organization, but GCA works with and through such groups to aid and benefit both this school and such church bodies with which it may be associated. The school is committed to and subscribes to the following articles of belief The Bible We believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be inspired by the Holy Spirit, inerrant in the original writings, and accurately maintained over the ages by God s Spirit. They are the only supreme and final authority for the rule of faith and life for all men. [II Timothy 3:15,16; II Peter 1:21] God We believe in only one living and true God, who externally exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, having one substance, power and eternity, perfectly sovereign, holy and unchangeable and infinite in being. [Deut. 6:4; I John 5:7; Matt. 3:16-17; John 1:14, 18; John 15:26] Man We believe that man and the universe were created by an immediate and direct act of God. Also, we believe that man was created in the image of God, but he chose to sin and thereby incurred not only physical death, but also spiritual death which is eternal separation from God and that all human beings are born with a sinful nature and become sinners in thought, word and deed. All human beings stand accountable before and to God for their sins. [Gen. 1:1,26-27; Gen. 2:17; Gen. 3:22-24; Rom. 3:23; Rom. 5:12, Rom. 5:15-19; Rom. 6:23] Jesus Christ We believe that Jesus Christ was begotten by the Holy Spirit, born to the Virgin Mary, and is truly God and truly man, yet one Christ, the only mediator between God and man. Also, we believe that He was crucified on a cross, died, and was buried, and resurrected by God. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father as our High Priest, King and Savior of His Church. [Luke 1:27,31,35] Salvation We believe that the Lord Jesus died for our sins according to the Scriptures, as a representative and substitutionary sacrifice and that all who believe in and trust in Him alone are justified on the grounds of His shed blood and perfect, righteous life. We further believe that all who receive the Lord Jesus Christ by faith are born again by the Holy Spirit, and thereby, become children of God and are thus becoming sanctified by God. [John 3:16-19; Rom. 3:23-26; Rom. 5:19; Heb. 9:14,16; Heb.10:14; Eph. 2: 8-10] Resurrection We believe that on the third day after His Crucifixion, our Lord Jesus Christ rose from the dead with the same body in which He suffered and with which He also 5

6 ascended into heaven and there sits at the right hand of the Father making intercession for the saints. [I Cor. 15: 3-5; John 20:25, 27; Mark 16:19; Rom. 8:34] Second Coming We believe that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will personally return and set up His Kingdom wherein He will rule and reign in righteousness. [Matt. 25:31; Rom. 14:9-10; Acts 1:11] Final Resurrection We believe in the bodily resurrection of the just to eternal blessedness according to the pattern of Christ s own glorious body and the bodily resurrection of the unjust to eternal punishment. [John 5:28-29, Acts 17:31; Acts 24:15; II Cor. 5:10; Rom. 2:5-6,16] Grace Christian Academy does not promote or endorse any particular denomination. Our statement of faith is based on fundamental Christian beliefs that we support as primary doctrine. Other doctrinal issues upon which this organization has no official stance will be considered secondary doctrine, and there shall be no attempt made by Grace Christian Academy to promote or disparage individual beliefs or positions concerning these issues. We desire to remain united in the life of Christ, avoiding any dissension which may be caused by denominational distinctives. Spiritual Formation Bible Class Every student will take Bible as a part of his or her core curriculum course load. Bible will be taught from a non-denominational approach, and Scripture will be used as the ultimate authority. Devotions & Chapel Parents are invited to attend our chapel services. Students are encouraged to make these worship times meaningful and relevant spiritual experiences. So that with one heart and mouth you may glorify God. (Romans 15:6) Service and Missions Students at GCA will be given the opportunity to serve the community and world in various mission-oriented and service activities throughout the year. BIBLE STUDIES Bible Class Grace Christian Academy s students take a daily Bible class as part of the school s core curriculum. In these classes, God s Word is the basis for discussion and daily application to life. Curriculum will vary based on the grade of each student. Our teachers lead with their hearts in teaching GCA s students how God is real and has made Himself known in their lives! 6

7 Devotions & Chapel Every week Grace Christian Academy s students will take part in an grade appropriate chapel time. The students are engaged in an atmosphere of worship, fun and teaching opportunity to dive deeper into a relationship with the Living God. The Spiritual Life Directors, students and staff lead the chapels. Ultimately this time is open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and it does not look the same week to week. We encourage our families to come be a part of this special time of worship! Service & Missions Grace Christian Academy wants to be a part of God s work within our local community, the nation and the world. GCA students have taken part in missions internationally as well as right around the corner in Franklin. GCA believes that through our service and missions program students have the opportunity to say yes to God in ways that is harder within their personal comfort zones. By stretching themselves into something new, they need to rely on our Heavenly Father for guidance and understanding. Previous occasions and locations to serve have been: Packing food for the Food Bank Room in the Inn Tennessee Best Buddies Program Dominican Republic Central Jamaica school and camps Spring Clean up for a small church in Maine Sending uniforms and supplies to our sister school in Haiti Supporting PR12s mission in Uganda ACADEMICS The purpose of GCA academics is for students to develop a Biblical Worldview, college preparedness for and real world and to become life-long learners. Standardized Testing In April of each school year, GCA will administer the Terra Nova as the school s achievement test. Results of the assessment will be available over the summer and reports will be sent home. In October, students will have an opportunity to take the PSAT. The ACT should be taken Sophomore, Junior, and Senior years. Grading Scale & Report Cards The school year at GCA consists of two semesters made up of two nine week quarters each. Report cards will be issued four times a year via at the conclusion of each grading period. The grading scale is: A , B 89-80, C 79-70, D 69-65, F 64 and below. 7

8 Homework & Studying Homework assignments are given to reinforce skills taught. Homework should be completed neatly and returned on time; it is a graded part of the curriculum. Studying is reviewing what has been learned and storing it in long-term memory. GCA Homework Policy Definition - The school teaches you something; you practice it at home by doing your homework; the reinforcement you have through homework builds up your knowledge a little more each time. So what you have done is improve your mind's ability to deal with this subject in THE future as well as helping you deal with other problems on other subjects because your brain will call on the same skills over and over. The more you skip homework, the less practice your mind gets at dealing with problems; you have more trouble finding knowledge and remembering what you learned. Studying is reviewing what you have learned and thus storing it in your long-term memory. Helping students adopt positive study habits and a strong work ethic will bless them in all areas of their lives. Biblical Rationale The Bible has something to say about gaining knowledge and wisdom. The key verse for early schools was Proverbs 1:7: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. This is the key to real knowledge: heeding and giving respect to our great Creator God is necessary to understand truth and knowledge. Those who do not fear, respect, and take notice of what God says are fools, and will have no grounding in wisdom. In addition, in Deuteronomy, we are told to think constantly review and repeat God s law, a form of homework. As Christians, we should have a strong work ethic and a heart for learning, which includes studying the Bible. Honor Roll And Academic Recognition It is important to recognize students who have achieved outstanding academic success. GCA s Honor Roll is one of the ways we strive to reward these achievements and at the same time encourage all students to work to their full potential. We will recognize students at the end of each nine week grading period. There will be two Honor Roll lists: A Honor Roll: All A s in a 9 week grading period. A/B Honor Roll: All A s and B s in a 9 week grading period. National Honor Society Eligibility is determined by cumulative grade point average which must meet or exceed our chapter s standards set at 3.5 on a 4.0 scale unweighted. An interested student may then submit additional information for consideration by the Faculty Council, which will carefully review the student s credentials. In addition to the Scholarship standard, membership in NHS is also based on 8

9 standards of Leadership, Service, and Christian Character. To be selected as a member of NHS, one must demonstrate on the candidate form and through the evaluations submitted by the faculty that one has met or exceeded these additional standards. Parent-Teacher Conference Conference days will be scheduled during the fall of each school year. Parents may request and schedule a conference with a teacher any time during the school year by contacting the teacher directly. Unscheduled "drop-in" conferences are discouraged as they interfere with teaching. Teachers may also contact parents for additional conferences if needed. Progress Reports Mid-quarter progress reports will be ed in the middle of each quarter. GCA will use RenWeb as an online tool for regularly communicating a student s progress and grades. Retention A student can be retained if the student does not have a passing final grade in any of the core subject areas of Math, History, English, Bible, or Science. A final decision will be made on an individual basis by the academic team for Middle School and/or High School, which includes the classroom teacher, Principal, and Guidance Counselor. ATHLETICS Mission Statement The mission of the Grace Christian Academy Athletic Department is to glorify God through the discipleship of student athletes and the pursuit of excellence in athletics with the Bible as the foundation and Jesus Christ as our focus. Philosophy Grace Christian Academy Athletics is founded on the teaching and principles of God s Word. Our philosophy of athletics should provide an opportunity for others outside the Grace community to visualize actions and principles that are quite unique in today s society. The GCA athletic program is a wonderful opportunity to minister to the community through exemplary actions, Christ-like attitudes, and a high level of individual and team athletic skill. The challenge for our athletes, parents, and coaches is to adhere to Colossians 3:17. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Athletic Eligibility Grace Christian Academy academic standards are high. These standards acknowledge that academic achievement takes precedence over athletic participation. It is a privilege to participate in athletics at GCA. Students that have a GPA lower than 2.0 may not be allowed to participate in team activities until improvement is made and verified by either progress reports or report cards. Students must also have a yearly physical completed, signed by their doctor and on file in the School Nurse s office. The physical form can be 9

10 found on the athletic page of our website at The last page of this form MUST be completed and on file at GCA. It is a Medical Consent to Treat form. In addition to the Medial Consent to Treat form, each student athlete must have a concussion form (also on the website at www. gcalions.com) completed and signed by the student athlete and parent in order to participate in any sports at GCA. Further eligibility requirements can be found in our Athletic Handbook. The eligibility requirements by our governing body, Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), can be found at Each student athlete is expected to conduct his/her life in accordance with the standards and principles set forth in God s Word. This includes adhering to all appropriate GCA standards of student conduct. Violations of the Student Honor Code of Conduct will affect participation in athletic activities. Athletic Attendance At School 1. Students who are absent from part of the school day and are granted a non-illness related excused absence (e.g., a dental appointment) will be allowed to participate in the practice or contest that day. 2. Student athletes must be at school for at least half of the day unless it is due to an excused absence. Half of the day at GCA is considered to be 11:30am. A student athlete may not participate in a particular practice or game if they do not attend at least half of the day. 3. Any Unexcused Absence from school, regardless if it is only for a partial day, will render an athlete unable to participate in the day s events. This would include inschool suspension or skipping class. Participation Fees Participation fees are essential to help fund the cost of interscholastic athletics; transportation to athletic events, game officials, tournament entry fees and supplementary equipment and supplies. Our business office through FACTS will collect these fees. Participation Fees are not a guarantee of playing time on a team. This fee is not assessed if an athlete does not make the team. All of the conditions of being a team member apply as if the fee did not exist. Playing time is based solely on the coaches discretion and assessment of a student s athletic ability and game situations. Our Coaches The coach is the living curriculum for the student athlete. Coaches are both teachers and active participants. They have the responsibility to model Christ-like behaviors and attitudes at all times. In order to be an effective coach and role model, GCA coaches must also be thoroughly knowledgeable in their sport, capable of detailed preparation, able to motivate athletes, able to make adjustments during competition, and work effectively under the authority of 10

11 the athletic director and school administration. Our coaches take seriously the opportunity they have to mold young lives for Christ. Our Parents Parents of student athletes have a responsibility to both their child and to the team. Without strong parental support, the student athlete will not be able to achieve his/her greatest potential, and the team may suffer. It is important that parents provide positive reinforcement and understand their role as being part of the team. Parents, as well as players, should be supportive and encourage coaches and teammates at all times. Parents are not coaches, and learning to trust coaches is a key step to learning the value of the life lesson experiences athletics provides. It is also important that parents honor the Lord when attending athletic events. In order for GCA s athletic program to be successful, coaches, student athletes, and parents must make a firm commitment to glorify God at all times. Our Athletes Grace Christian Academy athletes should be diligent in preparation, give 100% at all times, demonstrate personal discipline, be respectful in all situations, maintain selfcontrol, show humility, and aggressively pursue excellence regardless of the score, opponent, time, referee, or situation. The ultimate and final responsibility rests upon the shoulders of the student athlete, for it is the student athlete who is accountable to his/her parents, coach, and the Lord. Transportation of Athletes All team members are expected to ride with the team to and from contests when transportation is provided. The mode of transportation will be by Grace Christian Academy school bus, Grace Chapel activity bus, or a chartered bus. Students may be released to their parents after an away contest with verbal consent by the coach. Students may be released to another adult only with written consent from their parent. At no time should students ride with a student driver without written consent of their parent. Coaches are responsible to stay with student athletes returning from off campus events at night until all students have been picked up. Likewise, a coach must remain at an away event until all students have been picked up. Athletic Parent Meetings All parents of student athletes are required to attend a pre-season meeting with the coaching staff of that sport. The meeting shall be held before the first contest. Parents will be informed of all rules for their sport as well as the rules of Grace Christian Academy and the TSSAA. Schedules, expectations, and participation fees should be discussed at the meeting. 11

12 Scholastic Athletic Offerings The interscholastic sports currently being offered at Grace Christian Academy are: FALL WINTER SPRING Girls Soccer Wrestling Softball Girls Cross Country Girls Basketball Baseball Boys Cross Country Boys Basketball Boys Soccer Volleyball Boys Tennis- Possibility Football Girls Tennis- Possibility PE Expectations The focus for PE is on physical fitness and physical development. All students are required to participate to the best of their ability in all PE activities. If a student is not physically able to participate, a note from a parent will excuse a student from participating in one day of class. If more than one day is needed, a note from a doctor will be required to excuse the student from those activities. GENERAL POLICIES Attendance Student absences from school for all or part of a day fall into two categories: excused and unexcused. Generally, most unavoidable absences will be excused. An unavoidable absence is one due to a personal illness, a serious illness in the family, a death in the family, a school sponsored trip, a medical appointment, a court appearance, or a preplanned and preapproved family trip. Absences for any other reason are considered avoidable and thus unexcused. The total year-to-date absences plus the planned absences are not to exceed five per semester (5), unless given permission by principal. All in- school suspensions, out-of-school suspensions, and truancies are unexcused absences. Whether an absence is excused or unexcused, the student is expected to make up missed work in a timely manner. Work not made up in a timely manner may receive a reduced score or a zero. Though we understand and appreciate the value of family vacations and mission trips, we strongly recommend that such trips not be taken during school. Research indicates that if a student misses 7 days a year, his academic work suffers. There is also a negative impact on the community of learners as well as on the teacher. Too many absences will require a parent conference. Five absences are the maximum allowable for handwritten excuse notes. After 5 absences are reached during the school year, each time your child is absent requires a medical excuse note. If a student exceeds five (5) absences, a parent conference is required to discuss strategies to eliminate further problems. Exceptions may be granted by the Principal when documentation is provided for prolonged or chronic illnesses or extenuating circumstances. 12

13 Procedure For Early Dismissal (For Appointments, Etc.) Early dismissal should be kept to a minimum as it disrupts learning at every level. At the early dismissal time, the parent goes to the office to sign the student out. The office will then notify the teacher that the student is being checked out. If the student returns before the school day is over, the parent must return to the office with the student to sign the student back in. Student drivers must bring a parent note and sign themselves out. Early Dismissal Students should turn in assignments for classes that will be missed before leaving campus. Whenever possible, any missed tests or quizzes should be rescheduled before leaving campus. Failure to do this may result in zeroes for missed work. Early dismissals will not be allowed on EXAM (mid term or finals) days; please schedule any medical or special appointments for another day. Except for emergencies, students will not be dismissed to leave during the middle of class. Dismissals will be scheduled between classes. The adult who is picking the student up must come to the school office to sign the student out. Repeated failure to follow the established procedure will result in a denial of the early dismissal request. Late Work GCA S school-wide policy for late work is an immediate zero in RenWeb. The zero is an alert to parents. If work is turned in the next day, students can earn up to an 85%; if turned in after two days, students can earn up to 75%. Once an assignment is three days late, the grade is an automatic zero. Make-Up Work After a one-day absence, students should be prepared to make up scheduled tests or assignments the day of their return to class. However, students with an excused absence from school for two or more days are generally allowed three days to make up the work they missed. Make-up tests must be scheduled during a time that is convenient to the teacher. Students should make satisfactory arrangements with their teachers as soon as possible following any absence. If a student misses a class due to a curricular activity (e.g. field trip) or a co-curricular activity (e.g. baseball game) they are not allowed extra time, as a general rule, to make up the work. For example if he/she plays basketball and misses a math class on Tuesday, the student should turn in their work for Tuesday's class prior to leaving for the game and be ready for class on Wednesday. Requests for make-up work or assignments to the office or the teacher should not be made unless a student is absent for more than two days. All requests should be made to the office on the morning of the third day before 10:00 a.m. Requests after 10:00 may not be able to be accommodated until the next day. 13

14 **It is the student's responsibility, not the teacher's, to initiate the make-up work plan. **The student should seek assistance regarding work missed first from classmates, and then if there are further questions, seek out teacher assistance at an appropriate time. **Zeros will be given for work not made up within the agreed time frame. **Parents and students should check RenWeb to keep aware of assignments and deadlines. Before And After School Care The school cannot assume responsibility for students who arrive prior to 7:30 am or stay later than 3:40 pm. Parents' cooperation is necessary in this matter for the safety of the students and for the care of the school facilities. Students in K through 6 th grade will be sent to After School Care if you do not pick them up by 3:00 pm. The fee is $5.00 per day, per student, and you will be invoiced on a monthly basis. There is a mandatory After School Care registration form (available in the office or online) that must be filled out before your child can participate in the program. Please remember that after care is available until 5:30 p.m. If you arrive after 5:30 pm, you will be charged $1.00 per child, per minute, for every minute you are late. Please help us to be respectful of our After Care Director. Middle/High School students not participating in GCA sponsored after school activities must be picked up by 3:40 pm. After 3:40 pm, students will be taken to a special after care for $10 per day. This policy includes Wednesday nights for students staying for church at Grace Chapel. Campus Visitors Any visitor to the campus is to report directly to the school office. All visitors, including parents, must check in through the office, Entrance 7, before entering other parts of the building. All visitors are required to wear a visitor's badge. Please sign in and out in the office. Change Of Address When a student s address, telephone number, or changes, it is imperative that the change is reported to the Office as soon as possible. Please the change to information@gcalions.com. Classroom Procedures 1. Upon entering the classroom, students should take their assigned seats promptly and quietly and begin the posted bell ringer assignment. 2. Place cell phone, with ringer off, face down on the upper right hand corner of the desk/table-top. Students are not to touch or look at phones without teacher permission. 3. Speaking out or expressing disapproval when another has the floor is both rude and unfair. There is never an excuse for disrespect. 4. Students must bring proper materials and supplies to class: books, notebook, homework, paper, pen, pencil, etc. 14

15 5. Class will be dismissed by the teacher. Students should not be discourteous by getting up before they are dismissed. 6. Students should knock before entering a classroom that is in session. Wait to be recognized before making a request. 7. Christian conduct is expected of all GCA students at all times. Computer Use Procedures The school s computers provide opportunities to explore and use a varied and exciting set of resources including computer programs, CDs, and the Internet. The use of the computers must be in support of education and research and must be consistent with academic expectations of GCA. The policy is simple and broad: 1) do not cause damage to or change any settings on the computer; 2) use the computer for school-related work only; 3) and do not seek to access any areas that would embarrass the school or dishonor the Lord. Network storage areas will be treated like school lockers. Network and/or school administrators and teachers may review files, bookmarks and communications to insure the integrity of the electronic media. Privacy is not guaranteed for files stored on school servers. Files will not be maintained indefinitely. The use of the electronic networks and Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in cancellations of privileges and possible disciplinary action. Access entails responsibility. School administrators will deem what is inappropriate use, and their decision is final. Dress Code **Students will be sent home if not dressed according to the dress code.** The Grace Christian Academy Uniform Policy exists for two purposes: 1. To foster a positive educational environment where students and teachers can focus on learning 2. To encourage Christ-like behavior and attitudes. Parents are expected to play an active role in the enforcement of the uniform policy. Questions about particular clothing items or personal appearance should be directed to the Director of Discipleship. Approved GCA Uniform Colors Tops Red, White, or Black (6 th 12 th only) Bottoms Khaki, Navy, or Plaid General Grooming Guidelines All students should present a neat and clean appearance. Hairstyles should be well maintained and groomed. Dyed hair must be natural color. Girls Natural looking makeup is allowed in 7 th -12 th grade. Boys Should be clean-shaven, hair should not be below the shirt collar. Shirts must be tucked in at all times. No Tight-Fitting Clothing: Any article of clothing that restricts movement or emphasizes bodily curves is not allowed. 15

16 No Excessive Bagginess: Anything that is oversized and not appropriately fitted, sags, or will not stay up is not allowed. Accessories Tights must be solid uniform colors. All students must wear belts. They must be worn inside belt loops and be appropriate length. Pre-K -2 nd grade, belts are optional. Boys may wear uniform-colored ties with an GCA white oxford shirt. Girls may wear uniform-colored scarves or ties. Hats may not be worn inside of school. Socks must be approved uniform colors in red, white, or black with shorts, skorts, and jumpers. If you are wearing long pants, you may wear the socks of your choice. Shoes must be closed-toed shoes with backs, athletic shoes, or boots in good repair. No steel- toes, hunting boots, work boots, crocs, slippers, house shoes, moccasins, or flip flops are allowed. No heels over 2 inches tall. A watch is recommended for Middle and High School students. No stacked bracelets. Polos/ Oxfords / Sweatshirts/ Sweaters/ Spirit T s *Must be purchased from Educational Outfitters *Polos must be worn in approved uniform colors red or white. Black may be worn only by students in 6 th 12 th grade *Oxford shirts must be white, button down style with a collar. These may be worn by students in 6 th -12 th grade, and they must have the GCA logo embroidered on them. *Spirit Shirts: each year we have a new required spirit t-shirt. This is required for all grades, and can be worn on Spirit Fridays and must be worn on class field trips. Sweatshirts must be approved uniform colors in solid red, white, black, or gray. They must have the GCA logo embroidered on it to be worn in the halls and classrooms. Sweaters must be approved uniform colors in solid red, white, black, or gray. They must have the GCA logo embroidered on them to be worn in the halls and classrooms. Pants/ Shorts/Skorts/Jumpers Pants, Shorts, & Skorts may be purchased at the store of your choice. *Jumpers will need to be purchased at Educational Outfitter with GCA logo. Pants must be approved uniform colors: khaki or navy. Corduroy and Cargo pants are permitted. Capri pants may be worn by girls, but they may not have draw strings. Shorts must be approved uniform colors, khaki or navy. Shorts may be no more than 2 inches above the top of the kneecap in the front and back. Skorts/ Jumpers must be approved uniform colors: khaki, navy or plaid. Skorts and jumpers may be no more than 2 inches above the top of the kneecap in the front and back. Please periodically check your daughter s skort lengths as they grow. 16

17 If a skort is not being worn, shorts must be worn under all skirts at all times. All pants/shorts/skorts/jumpers may not be made of stretch material (no leggings or yoga pants), or have holes, tears or rips. Outerwear Jackets and coats are considered outerwear. Outerwear must fit appropriately and be removed in the classroom and hallways. Outerwear is meant to be worn while students are outside only. Students MAY wear sweater or sweatshirts (no hoodies) in solid black, red, white or gray, with the GCA logo on them any time while in class or in the hallways because they are considered part of the uniform. These items may be purchased at Educational Outfitters. If outerwear items are purchased at a store other than Educational Outfitters they must be embroidered at their store for a $10 fee. Athletic or Spirit Hoodies will only be allowed on Spirit Fridays. Middle/High School PE Uniform Standards 6 th 12 th Middle School and High School students who participate in a P.E. class are required to purchase a GCA issued P.E. uniform (shorts and shirt), which they must change into before P.E. class. These are available at Educational Outfitters. Students may wear sweats with instructor s permission. Sweats should be plain black or red. Spirit Fridays On Fridays, students may wear GCA Spirit t-shirts along with denim pants or shorts in black or blue. Athletic or spirit hoodies may also be worn on Fridays only. GCA Events Dress Code STANDARDS must be followed at all GCA events, including sporting events, banquets, fine arts events, dances, etc. While GCA logoed attire is not required for extracurricular events, the standard of dress must be honored. In other words, students don't have to wear uniforms, but they must still be neat and modest as representatives of GCA. Old/New Logo Any uniform items with the old Grace Christian Academy logo may be worn to school until January of After this date, all shirts, polos, P.E. uniforms, and outerwear will need to have the new GCA logo. Lunch boxes, book covers, book bags, and other school items should always display good taste and bear designs appropriate for a Christian school. Emergency Procedures Periodically, fire, tornado and earthquake drills will be conducted. Teachers and students are instructed as to proper procedures. Your child s safety is of utmost importance. Security measures are in place to protect your child. 17

18 Guidelines For Class Parties And Field Trips Parents and adult sponsors involved in the planning of and the participation in recreational, social, and educational activities should properly chaperone the students at all times and assume the responsibility of seeing that the students conduct themselves in a manner that honors Christ. Immunizations The State Department of Health requires that the green Tennessee Certificate of Immunization (available in doctors' offices) be on file for each student. A revised form needs to be submitted to the school office each time your child s shots are updated. Students will not be permitted to attend classes until the certificate of immunization, or an exemption letter is on file. Medications Should your child need to take medication during school hours, please stop by the office and complete a medical information form for either Prescription Medication or Non- Prescription Medication. The medicine should be sent to the office in the original prescription bottle and will be dispensed by the school nurse. Students are not allowed to keep medicine in the classroom, backpacks, or lockers. Prohibited Items Cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, any narcotics, knives, guns (including hunting, airsoft, paintball, etc.), matches, explosives of any kind, and other non-school items that harm or distract students are not permitted on school property. Personal Property Students should use discretion in the personal property they bring to school. Electronic devices such as cell phones, cameras, ipods, and other similar devices tend to invite misuse and often cause classroom distractions and interruptions. These items must be turned OFF during the school hours of 7:55 am 2:55 pm, unless given special permission by a teacher. Misuse of such items will result in confiscation. Students should also avoid keeping large sums of money in their purses, wallets or pockets. Plagiarism Definition: In an instructional setting, plagiarism occurs when a writer deliberately uses someone else s language, ideas, or other original (not common-knowledge) material without acknowledging its source. This definition applies to texts published in print or on-line, to manuscripts, and to the work of other student writers. Examples: 1. Submitting someone else s text as one s own or attempting to blur the line between one s own ideas or words and those borrowed from another source. 2. Carelessly or inadequately citing ideas and words borrowed from another source. 18

19 Rationales Biblical: Thou shalt not steal. Consequences 1. Plagiarized work will receive a zero. 2. Students who plagiarize will meet with their teacher and the Principal to determine additional consequences. Off Campus Behavior Our discipline guidelines apply to students while they are on campus, on GCA operated school vehicles, or at recognized school functions. While behavior at other times or places is an individual and parental responsibility (and not the school's), behavior that reflects negatively on the school will not be tolerated. Therefore, behavioral offenses which occur outside the limits established in the discipline policy will be considered as to their severity and their impact on the student s heart and the school's reputation. Tardy Tier A tardy student disrupts an entire class! Students are expected to be on time to school and to class. Chronically late students will meet with the Principal. They should plan on leaving early enough that under normal circumstances they would arrive ten or fifteen minutes early. This will allow a cushion for minor traffic delays or carpool delays, etc. Unexcused tardies are for circumstances that are under the students control. To put it in a word, they are avoidable. It is not excusable to be late for such things as sleeping in after play practice or athletic contests, typing a research paper assigned weeks in advance, not arranging for a ride when a vehicle has been in the shop for two days, etc. A student arriving to school after 7:50 am must be sign in at the office. A note from a parent must be brought to the school office within two days, or it will remain as an unexcused tardy. CONSEQUENCES Abuse of tardy tier will result in a parent conference with the Principal. The purpose of such a meeting would be to discuss the difficulties the student is having in relation to this issue, to discuss strategies for improvement, and to make sure there is a clear understanding of the consequences for continued tardies. Telephone Use A designated phone for student use is available in the School office. Students must obtain an office pass from their teacher to make a phone call during break or lunch times. Cell Phone Use Students may have cell phones in their possession, but they must be in airplane mode during the school day (7:50 am 3:15 pm). Phones used during the school day will be confiscated for 24 hours and disciplinary action will occur. In addition, students may not 19

20 use entertainment-oriented electronic items such as electronic games, music, ipods, etc. during the school day. The school is not liable for loss or damage to electronics brought to school for use before or after the academic day. Electronic items used during the school day will be confiscated and returned only to a parent after 24 hours. Audio or video recording during school requires teacher permission and is only allowed for educational purposes. During school hours, students may only use their phone with a teacher s special permission. Cell Phone Classroom Procedures Upon taking one s seat, the student places the cell phone face down in the upper right corner at the desk/table. Students may not touch any phones without direct teacher instruction. DISCIPLESHIP Grace Christian Academy must have a set of rules for behavior that promotes selfcontrol, character and an environment where learning can take place. Students are expected to behave in a manner which demonstrates a respect for self, others, and recognition of the responsibilities of being part of a Christian educational community. Discipline Guidelines The Bible is quite clear on the issue of discipline. Hebrews 12:11 states No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it (NIV). Our approach to discipline at GCA is influenced by this spiritual truth. When consequences are necessary for one s actions behavior, it should not be considered as a negative, but as part of the training process that the Lord has instilled to produce desirable qualities in each of us. By providing clear expectations, guidelines, and consequences, the expected result is first response obedience on the part of all GCA students. The first and usually the only person to deal with student misconduct is the teacher present, whether in or out of the classroom. Faculty members may also consult with other teachers and, according to the seriousness of a situation, with the Principal. When discipline is necessary, parents may rely upon the teachers and administration to correct behavior in ways that affirm biblical standards of fairness and justice, the dignity of each child, and the need for damaged relationships to be appropriately restored. Discipline will be determined and parents will be informed, but the goal is to get to the heart of the actions with each student. GCA Code Of Conduct Grace Christian Academy s HONOR Code Grace Christian Academy s disciplinary program can be described in one word: HONOR. Honor for God and His Word 20

21 Honor for parents and teachers Honor for classmates Honor for God s creation, including the church and our school building The first weeks of school will focus on discussions about HONOR, its Biblical basis, its educational value, and how it fits with our Mission Statement. Students will learn its intrinsic value and its place at GCA. After understanding the importance of HONOR and its relationship to God s Word and a Christian worldview and life, violations of any part of the HONOR program will be viewed as misdirected attitudes of the heart. The Administration at GCA is committed to dealing with discipline from this perspective. Definition of Honor to show respect, to treat with esteem, to keep an agreement Biblical Principles Exodus 20:12 - "Honor your father and your mother and others in authority (1 Peter 2) Romans 12: 9-11 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Romans 13:1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Pedagogical Principle A school that is characterized by honor among its students, faculty, and staff is a safe place where learning can flourish, individuals are respected, and God is revered. Discipline Tier 1st offense: Verbal warning 2nd offense: Verbal warning and phone call and/or home from teacher 3rd offense: Verbal warning and phone call to parents from student and a referral to Dr. Hodgson. **Consequences may not follow this progression and may vary depending on the offense. If parents have questions, concerns, or comments concerning the content of the disciplinary notice, they are encouraged to contact the teacher directly involved in the incident (Matthew 18: 15-20). If parents have additional concerns after first contacting the faculty member, they should call Dr. Hodgson, Principal. Disciplinary Options The following methodologies are options available to teachers and administrators as they work with students concerning problematic behaviors. Any class time missed due to a disciplinary issue will result in an academic penalty to the student(s) involved. During detentions and In- School suspensions, students may be required to serve the school during the period of time designated for the consequences in various tasks that may include cleaning, sweeping, pulling weeds, etc. 21

22 1. Conferences - Student and parent conferences are often not only necessary, but important in communicating the behaviors that are keeping a students from being in compliance with school guidelines. These meetings may involve the student, the parent, the teacher, the Director of Discipleship, and the Principal. 2. Detention - Detention may be used as a consequence for a variety of offenses. A Disciplinary Referral Form will be ed home to inform the parent(s). Detention meets for one hour every Friday morning at 6:50 am-7:50 am. Moving Detention from one week to another is strongly discouraged and must be approved by the administration before noon on Thursday. Failure to arrive on time to detention, not serving a scheduled detention on the appropriate date or excessive detentions served/ accumulated will result in stronger disciplinary measure. 3. In-School Suspension Students involved in serious misconduct, consistent disruptive behavior or showing disregard for GCA policies may be given an inschool suspension. Although isolated from students during the day of suspension, suspended students will be expected to complete all assignments on time. A letter will be placed in a student s file concerning the incident. Generally, 1, 2 or 3 days will be assigned depending on the seriousness or the repetitive nature of the offense. A student may not participate in extracurricular activities on days when in-school suspension is served. 4. Out-of-School Suspension - Students involved in a serious violation of school policy may be given an out-of-school suspension. Students will be required to complete all missed work at a maximum of 70%. A letter will be placed in the student s file concerning the incident, and the student will not be re-admitted without a parent conference. A student may not participate in extracurricular activities during this time. 5. Voluntary Withdrawal from School Occasionally, in severe cases, it may be in a student s best interest for the parent(s) to take action before the school does and withdraw their student voluntarily. 6. Expulsion Sometimes in extreme cases it becomes apparent that it would be best for the school and the student that he/she leaves the GCA student body. Acts of non- tolerance such as bringing weapons, drugs, alcohol or pornography to school or coming to school under the influence of drugs or alcohol are offenses that would warrant expulsion. If a student who has been expelled wishes to rejoin the GCA community, the student must reapply through the admissions office and complete the admissions process. The GCA administration reserves the right to refuse readmission. The following offenses will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis and with a disciplinary response as warranted by the offense, up to and potentially including suspension, expulsion, or legal action. 22