STUDENT / PARENT HANDBOOK 2013-2014 ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN A CHRIST-CENTERED ENVIRONMENT
STUDENT / PARENT HANDBOOK 2013-2014 1500 S. Main St. Roswell, New Mexico 88203 Phone: (575) 627-1500 Web Site: www.valleychristianacademy.org ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN A CHRIST-CENTERED ENVIRONMENT Table of Content The Miracle of Valley Christian Academy . . . ...... 4 Our Vision Statement . . . ........................................ 4 Our Mission Statement . . ....................................... 4 Our Philosophy of Education . . ............................. 5 Our Statement of Faith . . . ..................................... 5 Board of Directors ................................................... 6 Administration ......................................................... 6 VCA Non-Discriminatory Policy ............................ 6 Asbestos Management ............................................. 6 School Hours ............................................................ 6 Attendance................................................................ 6 Tardiness .................................................................. 6 Make-up Work......................................................... 7 School Cancellation, Delay, Early Release ............ 7 Closed Campus / Leaving School ........................... 7 Student Motor Vehicle Privileges ........................... 7 Miscellaneous Policy ................................................ 7 Visitors ..................................................................7 Lunches .................................................................8 Chapel ...................................................................8 Medications ...........................................................8 After School Care ..................................................8 Testing ...................................................................8 Counseling ............................................................9 Transfer Policy ......................................................9 Withdrawal Policy .................................................9 Student-Teacher Ratios .........................................9 Closed Campus......................................................9 Parent Responsibilities ..........................................9 Admissions................................................................ 9 New Student Application ......................................9 Transfer Policy .................................................... 10 Married Students ................................................. 10 Testing ................................................................. 10 Tuition and Fees..................................................... 11 Registration Fees (Due at the time of registration to hold your child’s place.) .................................. 11 Book Fees ............................................................ 11 Preschool Tuition (K3 to K5) .............................. 11 School Age Children Tuition .............................. 11 After School Care (1st to 4th Grade) ................... 11 Summer Program ................................................ 11 Multi-Child Discounts ......................................... 11 Other Discounts ................................................... 11 Referrals .............................................................. 11 Payment Arrangements (must choose one) ......... 12 Delinquent accounts (pertaining to quarterly or ACH agreement) ................................................. 12 Testing Fee (New students only) ......................... 12 Bus fee................................................................. 12 Lunch .................................................................. 12 Athletic fee* ........................................................ 12 Sundry Fees ......................................................... 12 Textbooks ............................................................ 12 Dress Code .............................................................. 13 Purpose ................................................................ 13 General ................................................................ 13 Monday / Tuesday / Thursday ............................. 13 Wednesday (Chapel Attire) ................................. 14 Friday (Spirit Day) .............................................. 14 PE Uniforms ........................................................ 14 Student Conduct .................................................... 14 Discipline ............................................................ 15 Purpose and Objectives of Discipline ................. 15 Policy Limits ....................................................... 15 Discipline (K3 - K5)............................................ 15 Discipline (1st – 12th grade) ............................... 16 Cell Phones ......................................................... 16 Level 1 Consequences ......................................... 16 Level 2 Offenses (including but not limited to) .. 16 Level 2 Consequences (1st - 4th grade) .............. 16 Level 2 Consequences (5th-12th grade) .............. 16 Saturday School .................................................. 17 After school detention ......................................... 17 Tardies ................................................................. 17 Cheating .............................................................. 17 Dress Code .......................................................... 17 Homework ........................................................... 17 Rewards ............................................................... 17 Searches .............................................................. 17 Alcohol, Drugs, etc. ............................................ 17 Student Pregnancy ............................................... 17 Suspension .......................................................... 18 Expulsion ............................................................ 18 Probation ............................................................. 18 Parent Conduct .................................................... 18 Grievance Procedure ........................................... 18 Extracurricular Activities ..................................... 19 Student Organizations ......................................... 19 Homecoming ....................................................... 19 Junior / Senior Prom ............................................ 19 Senior Class Trip ................................................. 19 Athletics .............................................................. 19 Eligibility Requirements ..................................... 19 Parent’s Responsibilities ..................................... 20 Music at VCA Activities ..................................... 20 Academics ............................................................... 20 Elementary (Grades 1-5) Course of Study .......... 20 Junior High (Grades 6-8) Course of Study .......... 21 Page 2 of 24 High School Minimum Scholastic Requirements 21 Course Selection.................................................. 21 Course Advising .................................................. 21 Graduation Policy................................................ 21 Honors Graduates ................................................ 22 Class Ranking...................................................... 22 Honor Roll and Honor Society ............................ 22 Valedictorian/Salutatorian ................................... 22 ENMU-R Concurrent Enrollment ....................... 22 Grading Scale and Procedures ............................. 22 Failed Classes ...................................................... 23 Elementary (Grades 1-6) ..................................... 23 Junior High (Grades 7-8)..................................... 23 High School......................................................... 23 Homework ........................................................... 23 Building and Grounds ........................................... 23 Hazards................................................................ 23 Emergencies ........................................................ 23 Fire Escape .......................................................... 23 Property Accountability ...................................... 24 Page 3 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs STUDENT / PARENT HANDBOOK The Academy administration publishes and updates this “Student/Parent Handbook” on an annual basis. The purpose of the handbook is to provide students and parents with information, procedures and policies, including extracurricular activities, regarding VCA. It contains the rules we live by as an educational community. The School Board reviews, updates and approves the handbook annually prior to distribution to the school families at the beginning of each school year. Once approved, the handbook becomes an annex to the school’s “Policy and Procedure Manual” and has the full force of board policy. Suggestions for improvements are always welcome, and should be directed in writing to the Superintendent. THE MIRACLE OF VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY . . . On Saturday afternoon, May 10, 2003, nineteen parents, grandparents, and pastors from ten different churches met to discuss the possibility of creating a community interdenominational Christian School in the Pecos Valley area. After much prayer and discussion, it was decided unanimously to create a school to be opened by the fall of 2003 offering excellence in Christian education for grades one through twelve. What happened next was nothing short of a miracle. Only eight days later, parents and grandparents from over 130 families had registered over 200 students to attend VCA. The school’s leadership, called “The Commission,” met at least once a week for the fourteen weeks through summer, and, with God’s help, assembled the school from scratch. Teachers, administrators, and faculty were hired one at a time while community members donated everything from desks to copy machines, from computers to flags. The school quickly outgrew its facility and four modular units containing eight classrooms were ordered Built upon a volunteer foundation, passionate parents along with administrative staff worked hard over the summer months developing a top notch curriculum so that Valley Christian would be able to offer excellence in Christian education. With its focus on God first, academics second, and extracurricular activities third, classes began as planned on Thursday, August 14th with over 225 students. On Friday evening, August 15 th, parents, grandparents, pastors, faculty, and staff came together to celebrate God’s work. After the first school board was sworn in, the opening celebration concluded with fireworks celebrating God’s miracle. What has happened with VCA is a tribute to God and to the faith of the people of the Pecos Valley Community. With 96 days from inception to opening its doors for its first classes, God, through obedient leadership and passionate parents, grandparents, and pastors created a school where there once was none. Valley Christian Academy continues to be richly blessed. God has created a school that will honor and glorify Him through excellence in Christ centered education for generations to come. Catch the vision of Valley Christian Academy! OUR VISION STATEMENT . . . It is Valley Christian Academy’s vision to change young lives, families, our community, our nation, and our world by taking the message of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth in whatever vocation VCA’s graduates choose for their lives. Graduates will be equipped with the tools necessary to excel academically and to make a difference for God in each life they touch and in everything they do. OUR MISSION STATEMENT . . . Valley Christian Academy is a community inter-denomination Christian school. VCA exists to provide academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment. Through spiritual training, biblically based education, and extracurricular activities, VCA helps each student grow in stature and wisdom to reach their potential in Christ. Page 4 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs OUR PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION . . . Valley Christian Academy believes our task is set forth in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” VCA desires for each of its students to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. VCA recognizes the spiritual walk of a child is of utmost importance. A child’s education is a partnership between the home, the church, the school and the community, with each playing a vital role in the upbringing of the child. For this partnership to be effective, it is necessary for parents to be active in their child’s education. We encourage the child’s parents to live model Christian lives and that they always be conscious of their critical role to instill Christian principles into each student’s life. We encourage regular church attendance by our school families. Valley Christian recognizes that education is a lifelong process. VCA encourages each of our students to seek higher education opportunities after completing high school. VCA desires to prepare students to achieve academic excellence by providing a learning environment with a Christ-centered perspective. “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity (1 Timothy 4:12).” In partnering with the child’s family and church, it is VCA’s role to prepare, train and equip its students with the spiritual, academic, emotional, physical, and social tools to make a difference for God throughout their lives. OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH . . . We believe that the Bible, inclusive of Old and New Testaments, is the inspired Word of God. It is the only rule in matters of faith and practice.(2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21) We believe in One God, eternally existing in three persons: Father Son and Holy Spirit. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:18-20) We believe in Creation and that man was created in the image and like ness of God, that Adam and Eve yielded to temptation of Satan and became fallen creatures. We believe that all men and women are born in need of a Savior. (Genesis 1:26; Mark 10:6-7; Ephesians 2:8-9) We believe in the Incarnation, the Virgin birth, and the Deity of our Lord and Savior, in Jesus’ substitutional atonement for the sins of mankind by the shedding of His blood on the Cross. We believe in His power to save men from their sins. We believe in the Resurrection of His body from the grave, His ascension into heaven, and that He sits at the right hand of the Father and is now our advocate. We believe that He will personally come again. We believe that Salvation is by grace through faith in the atoning blood of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. (Matthew 1:23; 1 Corinthians 15; Romans 10:12-13). We believe in the power of the Holy Spirit and that a regenerated man must walk in complete dependence upon the Holy Spirit in order to please God. (Ephesians 5:18; Acts 4:31). We believe that the Church, composed of all those who truly believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior, is the body and bride of Christ. We believe that Christ is head of the body, the church; that all believers are united into the body of Christ by the Holy Spirit, and having thus become members of one another, we are responsible to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Colossians 2:911; Ephesians 6:7-8, Philippians 2:1-3). Page 5 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jason Perry ....................... President ........................... Tabernacle Baptist Brian Bailey ...................... Vice President ................... First Baptist Church Dan Montgomery .............. Treasurer .......................... Country Club Church of Christ Melinda Robson ................ Elected .............................. Church on the Move Tyler Carter ...................... Elected .............................. Calvary Chapel Ron Flury .......................... Elected .............................. Rick Kraft.......................... Appointed .......................... First Baptist Church ADMINISTRATION Cory Cogdill ..................... Superintendent Amanda Zamora ............. Elementary Principal Elizabeth Sanchez ............. Pre-school Director VCA NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY It is the policy of Valley Christian Academy, both in admission of students and matters affecting employment, not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national or ethnic origin or disability. ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT VCA is certified as asbestos safe and meets all state and federal safety standards. A copy of the management plan is available in the school office during regular business hours. SCHOOL HOURS K3-K5 ............................... 8:00 am to 3:00 pm 1st-12th ............................. 8:00 am to 3:15 pm ATTENDANCE Due to the advanced curriculum used at VCA, attendance of every student all day, every day is imperative. Parents have the primary responsibility for their student’s attendance. Any student in grades 7-12 who is more than 15 minutes late for class will be counted absent. Each student is allowed a maximum of nine absences in any class for each semester. Classes missed by students participating in school sponsored activities will not count as absences. Absences are appropriately used when they are for: 1. 2. Illness Appointments that must take place during school hours. All other absences are considered inappropriate and unexcused. Examples of inappropriate absences include shopping, caring for pets, leaving early or missing school to “support the team”, etc. In extenuating circumstances, exceptions to the absentee limit may be made by the school administration. Excessive absences could result in the student not receiving credit for the grade and/or a recommendation for the student to repeat the grade. Any student who is absent without prior consent (skipping class) is subject to suspension or expulsion. The school office will contact parents of absent students to confirm the absence. TARDINESS A student is tardy if he/she is not in class by the time of the second bell (tardy bell). In class is defined as being in your seat with materials when the bell rings. Students whose parents bring them late to school in the morning are considered to have an unexcused tardy. Each student will be allowed to be tardy 5 times per nine week period before disciplinary action begins. Beginning with the 6th and additional tardies, the student will be issued an after school Page 6 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs detention. Discipline for unexcused tardies starts anew at the beginning of each nine week period. The parents of habitually tardy students will be contacted by the administration and consulted. Should the problem continue, the student may be asked to withdraw from the school. MAKE-UP WORK It is the student’s responsibility to arrange to make up work resulting from absences. The student must contact each teacher and inquire what work needs to be made up. The student will be allowed one day to make up work for each day absent. Example: If the student missed two days, then the student would have two days in which to make up the work, not counting the first day back. SCHOOL CANCELLATION, DELAY, EARLY RELEASE In the event of severe weather, the decision regarding delayed start, cancellation, or early release rests solely with the Superintendent. The Superintendent will use whatever resources he/she needs to make this determination. The decision to delay or cancel school will be made by 6:30 am. The administration will notify the following radio and TV stations when a decision has been made: RADIO FM 97.1 FM 100.5 FM 104.7 TV NBC- KOBR CBS- KBIM (In the event you do not see or hear VCA listed but RISD is, we will adhere to the RISD delay or cancellation. There is also a Valley Christian located elsewhere in the state. Look for Valley Christian Academy-Roswell). Check website for closing/delays at www.valleychristianacademy.org CLOSED CAMPUS / LEAVING SCHOOL For the safety of all students, VCA operates a closed campus. Once students arrive on campus and begin the school day, they are not allowed to leave campus unless they are under the direct supervision of their parent/guardian. Parents must personally check their student out at the office, or send a written note requesting that their student be allowed to leave campus early (in the case of students who drive). Phone calls to have a student sign out early or for lunch are not acceptable. If the student returns to school after that day, the student and/or parent should sign in at the office before returning to class. STUDENT MOTOR VEHICLE PRIVILEGES Students who possess a current, valid, state driver’s license and appropriate insurance may operate motor vehicles on campus with the consent of their parents and the approval of the administration. Authorization forms are available from the office. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed at the owner’s expense. The car will not be used during the school day without parental authorization. The student is not to return to the car again during the school day without permission. Students are not to use their vehicles as a locker or lunchroom. Students need to understand that driving on the VCA campus is a privilege, not a right. Caution is to be used at all times concerning speed and attentiveness. Any inappropriate driving will result in disciplinary actions, which may include suspension of the student’s driving privileges on the VCA campus. Students must park in designated areas only and comply with established rules. There is a charge of $25 per year for student parking, payable the first week of school each semester. MISCELLANEOUS POLICY VISITORS Our desire is to keep students and classrooms at VCA safe from interruptions. All visitors to the school, including adult volunteers, are to report to the office immediately for a pass. Visitors on campus without a pass will be reported Page 7 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs to the office. Lunches, books, homework, materials, etc. are to be left at the office and they will be delivered to the student. Visits are welcome by parents or students interested in VCA as a possible school home. Visiting students will abide by school policy concerning dress code. Those desirous of visiting the school as prospective students or parents are to first contact the office for approval. Classroom visitors must have permission from the principal and the teacher involved at least one day before the visit. Visitors must meet the following criteria: 1. 2. Written parental permission for those who are sincerely considering enrollment at the school. Out of town guests of the family may visit for one day only. Hosting students must be in good current academic standing with the school. LUNCHES Hot lunches will be available for purchase on campus for all students in grades 1-12. Parents may send a sack lunch with their child. Students are not allowed to order in lunch from an outside vendor. Parents may bring their student lunch and leave it at the office. CHAPEL Chapel is held once a week for all students in grades 1-12. The day and time may be changed to take advantage of outside programs or speakers. Teachers are to encourage a spirit of attentiveness and reverence towards God. Visitors are welcome to participate in chapel. (See visitor guidelines.) MEDICATIONS Parents who desire VCA staff to dispense medication to their children must complete a “Medical Authorization Form” which is available at the school office. School personnel are forbidden by law to give ANY internal medication (including over the counter medications) to a student without written permission from a parent or legal guardian. In addition, parents must bring the medication, along with appropriate documentation, directly to the school office. Under no circumstances should the student be allowed to bring the medication to school. AFTER SCHOOL CARE VCA provides after school care at the campus from 3:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday when school is in session. If the student does not attend After School Care on a regular basis, the parent should notify the school by 10:00 a.m. on days when their student will be staying. The Board of Directors will set the fee schedule. After School Care will be billed at the end of each month. If students are picked up within 15 minutes of school dismissal, parents will not be charged a fee. For the safety of your child, all elementary students must check in and stay at After School Care if they are on the VCA campus without a parent during After School Care hours. Loitering in the halls, restrooms, etc. will not be allowed. Students left unsupervised on campus are the responsibility of the parents. TESTING VCA is a college preparatory school. The High School Principal administers the following tests at the High School level: PLAN, PSAT. Students are required to take the American College Test (ACT) in order to receive their high school diploma. Students may substitute the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for the ACT with the approval of the administration. VCA administers the Stanford Achievement Tests for students in grades 3-9 in the spring of each school year. Page 8 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs Pre-Admission (assessment) testing is used to help determine the level of work a new student is capable of performing. This test is offered through the office of the Academic Coordinator and parents are responsible for the cost of this test. The test and fee may be waived at the discretion of the administration is the student has a recent standardized test. COUNSELING Course and curriculum counseling in the 8th grade and a graduation credit review in the 10 th grade shall be made available to all students. The purpose of the counseling in the 8 th grade is to insure that students understand what electives are available, what the graduation requirements are, and when and in what order classes should be taken. The 10th grade review is to be conducted to insure that students are on track for graduation. Counseling will be provided to transfer students. TRANSFER POLICY Any parent or guardian seeking to transfer their child into VCA from any other school must make affirmation that he/she has no outstanding fees, tuition, accounts or other obligations to any school previously attended, before their child can be accepted as a student of VCA. WITHDRAWAL POLICY Withdrawals from school are to be made through the school office. All withdrawals during the year must be made in writing and shall be effective when such notice is delivered to the school. The student must turn in all books and materials belonging to the school and all accounts must be paid in full before report cards and transcripts can be released. Tuition payment is to be made through the end of the calendar month of withdrawal. The administration shall attempt to conduct an exit interview through visit, phone call, or letter. STUDENT-TEACHER RATIOS VCA reserves the right to establish class sizes and to maintain a student-to-teacher ratio that serves the educational needs of the students and the interests of VCA. To that end, the following class size guidelines will be followed: Class Maximum K3-K4 ............................... 12 K5-12th grade .................... 25 CLOSED CAMPUS VCA is a closed campus. Once students arrive on campus and begin the school day, they are not allowed to leave the campus unless they are under the direct supervision of their parent/guardian. Parents must personally check their student out at the office, or send a note requesting that their student be allowed to leave campus (in the case of students who drive). PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Parents should be acquainted with, agree to and sign the Statement of Faith, goals and mission of VCA. New parents are required to attend a new parent orientation meeting. Parents are expected to attend parent/teacher conferences. Parents are expected to follow the steps set out in Matthew 18 when student/teacher conflicts arise. Parents are responsible for getting their children to and from school on time. Parents should make every effort to build school spirit by supporting the school’s activities, programs and fund-raisers. ADMISSIONS NEW STUDENT APPLICATION Page 9 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs Parents must complete and return application forms to VCA with a non-refundable registration fee. Registration fees for first time and returning students shall be set by the Board of Directors. VCA will collect a non-refundable testing fee. Upon receiving the application and supporting documents (records from previous schools, standardized tests, etc.) students and parents will be contacted for an interview with the administration. The VCA administration shall review all applications and notify parents of their decision. New students must transfer in a GPA of 2.0 to qualify for financial aid the 1 st semester* Discipline reports must be obtained before admission. Students can not have more than 2 short term suspensions (3 days or less) or 1 long term suspension (more than 10 days). If students have more than 2 short term suspensions for any one year, they will need to write a letter to the Board stating why they have been suspended and how they will be a positive contribution to the student body. Admission will be based upon Board decision. All paperwork completed Handbook received and signed New Parent/ New Student orientation VCA reserves the right to close or combine classes when enrollment exceeds or does not meet levels set by the Administrator. New classes or combination classes will be opened when there are enough students to justify another class. TRANSFER POLICY Any parent or guardian seeking to transfer their child into VCA from any other school must make affirmation that he/she has no outstanding fees, tuition, accounts or other obligations to any school previously attended, before their child can be accepted as a student of VCA. It is also the school’s policy not to admit students previously expelled from other schools. However, under unusual or mitigating circumstances, parents who seek admission of their child may write a letter to the Administrator requesting an exception. The Administrator may set additional terms for the student. MARRIED STUDENTS VCA believes the school works in partnership with the home in educating the student. It is expected that children who attend are under the authority of their parents, and this authority is delegated to the teachers during school hours and activities. Therefore, we do not accept married students or students living independently of their parent or guardian. TESTING Pre-admission (placement) testing is used to help determine the level of work a new student is capable of performing. Parents are responsible for the cost of this test. VCA administers achievement tests for students in grades 1-11 in the spring of each school year. As a college preparatory school, we expect a high level of academic commitment from our students, families, and faculty. Achievement test scores at the 40th percentile (low average) or higher are usually needed for a student to be successful at VCA. At the elementary grade level, students who score below this level will be required to receive tutoring at an extra cost to the parents. Students entering into grades 7 or higher may be denied admission or re-enrollment if test scores are continually low. We also administer the following tests at the high school level: PLAN, PSAT and Stanford Achievement Test. Students are required to take the American College Test (ACT) in order to receive their high school diploma. ACT uses the following benchmarks on subject-level tests to determine a student’s readiness for college level work: English – 18; Mathematics – 22; Science – 24; Reading – 21. VCA students are strongly encouraged to take an ACT Prep course, and to purchase for themselves one of the many software programs available. Students may substitute the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for the ACT with the approval of the administration. Page 10 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs TUITION AND FEES REGISTRATION FEES (DUE AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION TO HOLD YOUR CHILD’S PLACE.) K3-K5 ....................... $150 1st- 12th Grade ........... $200 Summer Program ........ $50 Current Students: Receive $100 off your registration if paid by May 1 st. New Students: Receive $100 off your registration. All the above fees are non-refundable. BOOK FEES K3-K5 ......................... $75 1st-12th ....................... $200 PRESCHOOL TUITION (K3 TO K5) Part Time: 7:30am-12:00pm ..........................$350 a month ($87.50 a week) (Preschool ONLY) Full Time: 7:30am- 3:00pm ..........................$420 a month ($105 a week) Extended Time: 7:30am-5:30pm ..................$500 a month ($125 a week) SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN TUITION 1st to 12th Grade..............................................$460 a month or $4600 for the year AFTER SCHOOL CARE (1ST TO 4TH GRADE) Monday to Thursday 3:00pm-5:30pm ...........$10 a day Friday 12:00pm-5:30pm ................................$20 a day SUMMER PROGRAM K3 to 4th Grade ..............................................$25 a day or $120 a week MULTI-CHILD DISCOUNTS Less then $50,000; child 2 and more .............50% $50,000 to $60,000; child 2 and more ...........25% $60,000 or more; child 2 and more ................10% OTHER DISCOUNTS Tuition Paid in Full by August 1st Full Time Pastor Discounts 3% Available Financial aid is available based upon income REFERRALS Families will receive a $100 credit towards each new family they refer. The new family will also receive a $100 credit towards tuition. (New family must have coupon, which you can pick up in the office.) Page 11 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS (MUST CHOOSE ONE) Tuition is paid August through May for 10 months, or August through July for 12 months. Due date is based on payment arrangement choice. 1. 2. 3. 4. Pay in advance for the entire year (due by first day of school). Credit Card Autopay (monthly) 3% service charge added Automatic bank transfer (ACH – Direct Debit, monthly payments only). A fee of $25.00 is charged for returned ACH, checks or credit cards. DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS (PERTAINING TO QUARTERLY OR ACH AGREEMENT) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. After the 30th day past due, an unpaid account becomes delinquent. A meeting with the administrator will be required to discuss payment options. By the 4th Tuesday of the second month past due, a second note is sent containing instructions regarding disenrollment procedures. On the Friday following the 60th day, dis-enrollment is automatic unless an account is brought current Once the 60 day delinquent account threshold is reached, the account is not permitted to be delinquent by more than 30 days and a credit card must be place on record. All accounts must be current for report cards to be issued After dis-enrollment, a student may apply for re-enrollment when accounts are brought current. Registration fees may be waived. TESTING FEE (NEW STUDENTS ONLY) Grades 1-12 ...................... $20.00 due at time of testing. Test may be waived by administration with copy of current standardized test BUS FEE Bus fee is charge based upon distance from VCA and billed in advance and on a monthly cycle. Bus route is limited to Midway. This fee is due with tuition. Half price for one way trip. LUNCH There is a charge for hot lunch, determined at the start of the year. Students may also bring lunch from home. ATHLETIC FEE* All athletic fees are due when the sport begins. They must be paid in full before the second game or the athlete will not be allowed to continue. Tuition and fees must also be kept current for students to participate in athletics. Fees are non-refundable after participating in one game. *See athletic fee schedule SUNDRY FEES The school may collect sundry fees such as yearbook costs, art fee, attendance fees for athletic events, extracurricular activities fees, etc. TEXTBOOKS Textbooks are part of the regular curriculum and are the property of the school (unless purchased at the college for dual credit). They remain at the school when the student withdraws. Students are responsible for their books and, should damage or loss occur, parents will be billed for the cost of replacement. Page 12 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs DRESS CODE I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety. (1 Timothy 2:9) The principle behind the school’s dress code is that students should learn to dress in a God honoring manner (“neatly, cleanly, and modestly”). The Biblical inference is also that we (both men and women) should dress, not to please ourselves, but in consideration of others. Parental cooperation with and enforcement of the dress code is expected. Teachers will check dress code during home room and at the start of each class period. Accordingly, students who come to school out of dress code or dressed immodestly will be given a written demerit by the teacher. With the 4 th and subsequent write up for being out of dress code, the student will be issued an after-school detention. The student who is habitually out of dress code will be sent to the office to call his/her parents to bring the appropriate clothing and will receive a “0” for any class work missed. Students are not allowed to check out of school to change clothes. PURPOSE The goal of our dress code is to facilitate the educational environment while allowing for reasonable personal expression. All students are expected to follow the dress code with a Christ-like attitude and not push the boundaries. Students must remember that they represent VCA both on and off campus. We are to be “the Light of the world,” and this means that everything we do must reflect a high standard of personal cleanliness, grooming and modesty. This dress code is to be followed by all students while on the VCA campus and while participating in, or attending VCA activities, unless otherwise stipulated. VCA cannot anticipate changes in clothing styles that may occur during the school year, nor can we list every clothing item that is, or may be, unacceptable. VCA reserves the right to make clarifications and changes to this dress code when and if deemed necessary. The administration of VCA will determine proper dress code compliance. GENERAL Girls: Boys: Shorts, skirts, skorts, dresses and jumpers must be within 4 inches of knee when kneeling. Grooming: Hair must be kept clean and neat Extreme hairstyles and colors are NOT permitted Makeup and nail polish must be in good taste (no extremes) Earrings are permitted. No visible tattoos or body piercings are allowed. No “gauge” earrings. Clothing: Must NOT be form fitting or body hugging. Shirts/blouses must cover midriff when hands are raised Undergarments must NOT be visible. See through clothing is not allowed. No visible cleavage is allowed. No hats allowed in the classroom Grooming: Hair must be kept clean and neat Hair will above the bottom of the collar and out of the eyes when combed naturally, and above the bottom of the ears. Extreme hairstyles and colors will not be permitted Must be clean shaven Earrings are not permitted. Visible tattoos and piercings are not allowed Clothing: No tank tops or muscle shirts permitted Caps, sunglasses, or chains on wallets are not to be worn or carried around campus MONDAY / TUESDAY / THURSDAY Page 13 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs Girls Boys A blouse or polo shirt, (no cotton tees or T-shirts). Polo shirts must be tucked in Docker style pants ,skorts or shorts –(khaki, navy blue, black color w/ belt loops for grades 5 and up) Skirt or dress-matching/coordinating color with top (see length requirements above) A belt is required on clothing with belt loops If tights and dress are worn together, the 4 inch rule applies to the dress. A collared shirt. Shirt must be tucked in. Docker or cargo style pants or shorts. – (khaki, navy blue, black color w/ belt loops for grades 5 and up) A belt is required on clothing with belt loops All Students Solid color Sweatshirts, jackets, or sweaters are allowed in the classroom No camouflage clothes of any color may be worn Shoes are required at all times – no beach shoes or slippers. Elementary grades K4 – 2nd should wear shoes or sandals with a back WEDNESDAY (CHAPEL ATTIRE) Girls Collared blouse and skirt or a dress (solid colored dress slacks may be worn during cold weather). Boys Collared dress shirt, tucked in with a tie, slacks with belt FRIDAY (SPIRIT DAY) All Students VCA T-shirts or Polo and jeans or jean shorts (4" rule) Regular Monday to Thursday dress is also allowed PE UNIFORMS VCA has a required PE uniform for students taking physical education in grades 5 - 12. A VCA t-shirt and dark shorts (4” or less above the knee) fulfill this requirement. Parents shall be informed in writing by the teacher. Continual dress code violations will lead to after school detentions. Tennis shoes should be worn during PE. STUDENT CONDUCT Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves…Therefore it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment, but also because of conscience. (Romans 13:1,2,5) VCA seeks to provide academic and spiritual training to students within a Christian environment, with the goal of having all behavior (students, parents, teachers, etc) honoring to Christ. This would include such traits as trustworthiness, responsibility, respect, fairness, caring, citizenship, etc. Scripture is clear that we are quite incapable of this apart from the indwelling power of Jesus. Currently, we accept students from non-Christian homes, but the expectation is for them as well. Our desire is that all students have a personal relationship with Christ, and conduct themselves according to Biblical standards. Each student and family must understand that attending VCA is a privilege granted to those who willingly demonstrate a spirit of cooperation with the philosophy and purpose of the Page 14 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs school. DISCIPLINE 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. (Hebrews 6:11) At Valley Christian Academy, we believe discipline is ordained by God and directed by His Word for instruction and the development of one’s character. We also believe that discipline is necessary for the welfare of the student and the entire Academy. Further, we recognize that self-discipline is necessary for success in any endeavor, including the educational process. In Latin, the root word for disciple means “one that learns.” Whether a student is learning the basics of a musical instrument, the fundamentals of a sport, developing a knowledge of phonics as a basis for reading, or rudimentary facts of science, anything new requires certain areas be mastered before one can progress to the next level. In the classroom, some measure of order and respect must be present for academic learning to take place. Therefore, at VCA we view discipline in a positive light, with the goal of training students who develop traits of selfcontrol, diligence, punctuality, honesty, humility and other characteristics necessary for those who will one day rule and reign with Christ. We acknowledge that such a training process takes time (indeed, it takes the entire course of one’s life). VCA operates from the perspective that our teachers and students, although possessing a fallen nature, are image bearers of Christ. At the same time, each teacher has been granted God-ordained authority in the classroom. For any discipline system to work effectively, it must be enforced by teachers and supported by parents. We therefore expect students and parents at all grade levels to show proper respect toward teachers, staff, and fellow students. In the classroom, the teacher is considered the first line of authority. It is our expectation that teachers and parents will maintain open lines of communication with each other. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF DISCIPLINE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. To develop Godly behavior To provide communication to all involved (parent, student teacher and administration) regarding the cause for discipline and the action taken. To maintain an optimum environment for learning. To correct behavior that is disruptive to the learning environment. To train students in behavior patterns that will be helpful to them in achieving goals of spiritual, intellectual, physical and social development. To remove, if necessary, unrepentant students, so that the proper learning environment may be maintained. POLICY LIMITS The policies and guidelines in this handbook apply to students while they are on campus, at recognized school functions, or on VCA operated vehicles. While behavior at other times is a student and parent responsibility (and not that of VCA), behavior that impairs the testimony of the school cannot be ignored. Offenses that occur outside the limits established in this handbook will be considered as to their severity and impact on the school’s reputation, including the perception of its subsequent effectiveness in ministry. DISCIPLINE (K3 - K5) Due to the immaturity of most 3-5 year olds, most behavior modification can be handled in the classroom by the teacher. The goal and intent of correction is to guide and shape behavior at this young age. Verbal correction and positive reinforcement are often the most effective form of discipline at this stage. If a child demonstrates a continual attitude of disrespect for other students or the teacher, then the administrator will contact the parent for a meeting with the teacher and the administrator. At that time, an appropriate disciplinary plan of action will be agreed upon by both the administrator and the parent. If the child shows defiant or aggressive behavior, then the student can be removed from the classroom for a period of time determined by the administrator. Expulsion is an option for the administrator if all other avenues have been exhausted. Page 15 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs DISCIPLINE (1ST – 12TH GRADE) LEVEL 1 OFFENSE (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO) Ignoring a teacher’s instructions, pushing/shoving, verbal threatening, inappropriate gestures or language, racial/gender/ethnic slurs, dress code violations, using electronic devices (pager, cell phone, radio, CD player, Ipod, electronic games, toys, etc.) during school hours. Food/drink outside the lunchroom, chewing gum, etc. Note: Electronic devices will be confiscated the first time and returned to the student at the end of the day. If the device is used again, the teacher will turn it in to the office and parents must come to pick it up. CELL PHONES Students who use cell phones during class time or any other time except their lunch break will have the phone confiscated. The cell phone will only be returned upon the payment of a $20 fine. It will be required that VCA staff be notified of all student emergency situations. LEVEL 1 CONSEQUENCES 1st violation2nd violation3rd violation 4th violation5th violation- Demerit issued, Parent contacted by teacher Parents contacted by teacher, 1 after school detention Parents contacted by teacher, 2 after school detentions Parents contacted by teacher, 3 after school detentions Refer to level 2 LEVEL 2 OFFENSES (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO) Academic cheating, forgery, plagiarism, lying, stealing, threatening behavior (verbal or physical), fighting, inappropriate gestures/obscenity, profanity, vandalism, leaving class without permission, skipping class, careless/reckless driving, blatant disrespect to a staff member or another student, fighting. LEVEL 2 CONSEQUENCES (1ST - 4TH GRADE) 1st Violation: Demerit Issued Parental Notification by teacher by phone 2 days of after-school detention or behavior contract 2nd Violation: Demerit Issued Parental notification by teacher by phone 4 days of after school detention or behavior contract 3rd Violation: Demerit Issued Parental Notification by teacher by phone 2 day suspension 4th Violation - Demerit Issued Parental Notification by teacher by phone Possible expulsion by Administrator upon Board review LEVEL 2 CONSEQUENCES (5TH-12TH GRADE) 1st Violation: Demerit Issued Parental Notification by teacher by phone One day Saturday School 2nd Violation: Demerit Issued Page 16 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs Parental notification by teacher by phone Two days of Saturday School 3rd Violation: Demerit Issued Parental Notification by teacher by phone 2 day suspension 4th Violation - Demerit Issued Parental Notification by teacher by phone Possible expulsion by Administrator upon Board review SATURDAY SCHOOL The student will be required to pay a $40 fee. The hours will be 8-12. The student will do lawn work, cleaning, etc. If a family cannot pay the $40, the $40 will be put on their bill. AFTER SCHOOL DETENTION Students will report to detention 5 minutes after the dismissal bell and stay for 30 minutes after school. TARDIES Students who are tardy (unexcused) to school more than 5 times in a quarter will receive an after school detention for each subsequent tardy in that quarter. CHEATING Students who cheat or plagiarize will receive a level 2 demerit and a “0” for the assignment. DRESS CODE Students who are out of dress code more than 3 times will be sent to the office and parents called. The violation will be recorded as a level 1 demerit. HOMEWORK Incomplete homework will be graded accordingly. Homework not turned in on time will receive a “0”, unless the individual teacher has a different policy. REWARDS Students with no demerits at the end of each month will be rewarded with free dress down pass or another appropriate reward. SEARCHES VCA reserves the right to search ant school owned equipment or property at any time. It also reserves the right to search any student/parent owned vehicle, pack, or container on school premises or at any school function. ALCOHOL, DRUGS, ETC. It is the policy of VCA to be a campus free of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, pornography or weapons. These are not allowed at school, school functions, or vehicles on campus. Students who violate this policy will be disciplined up to and including expulsion. STUDENT PREGNANCY Page 17 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs VCA does not feel it is equipped to handle students with children or students who are expecting children while at VCA; therefore, it is VCA’s policy to not allow a student to attend VCA while currently a mother or father or expecting to be one during the school year. This policy applies to both boys and girls, and applies to boys even if the girl is from another school. SUSPENSION Suspension is the temporary removal of a student from the classroom. Normally, the student will be placed in another classroom or office and will be responsible for writing sentences and completing all required school work. The first time, the student will be penalized one letter grade for all work. EXPULSION Expulsion is the permanent removal of a student from class attendance by the school, regardless of the time this may occur in the academic year. Expulsion is by action of the Administrator. The student’s parents may appeal this action to the Board of Directors of the school. Expulsion is the most serious action and could be used for the following actions: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Student’s or Parent’s failure to cooperate with VCA discipline. Possession or use of any illegal or non-prescribed drugs, alcohol or pornography. Sale of any drugs, tobacco, alcohol, or pornography. Striking or cursing any student, teacher or authority. Sexual misconduct or a serious moral offense. The use of or threat of violence against other students or the school. Displaying a continual bad attitude. Repeated violation of VCA rules. Possession/use of any weapons on the VCA campus or at any VCA sponsored event. Other violations, which the administration may deem appropriate PROBATION The Principal is responsible for carefully and prayerfully examining students with attitude problems or continued violations of school rules. When this occurs, a conference with student, parents, teacher(s) and administration will take place. The goal is to see positive and constructive change take place in the student’s life and heart. Specific areas of growth will be made clear to parents and the student. The term of probation will be a maximum of 6 weeks. During that time significant change is expected. If continued problems arise, the student will be asked to withdraw from the school. PARENT CONDUCT Parents or guardians must understand that their personal conduct will influence the continuation of their student’s enrollment at VCA. Parents are expected to set an example for their children in accordance with Biblical standards. If the conduct of parents is such that it conflicts with the standards and policies of the school, the child is placed in a conflicting situation of choosing between those things taught by the school and those being taught by the home by the conduct of the parents or guardians. Such situations become disruptive not only to the child, but to other children, parents, and staff. A situation of this nature is disruptive to the school, interrupts the educational process, brings disharmony, and will be grounds for the dismissal of the student. Parents must agree to support the staff and administration of VCA publicly (including public social media), while pursuing the proper grievance procedures outlined below. Failure to follow the correct procedure may result in dismissal of the student. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ (Matthew 18:15-16) Page 18 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs If parents have questions or disagreements regarding disciplinary actions or academics, it is their responsibility to take the following actions: Meet with: 1. 2. 3. Teacher (not taking grievance to other parents, faculty of students). Administration with teacher present. VCA Board with Administration and teacher. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS All student organizations shall have purposes and guidelines. Activities of the student organizations shall be approved by the administration. Advisors of student organizations shall have all fund-raising projects approved by the administration. For the welfare of students and families, no VCA activity shall be scheduled all day on Sunday or Wednesday night after 5PM. Sponsors and parents are encouraged to schedule activities at times which do not conflict with church services or family affairs such as weekends, holidays and normal vacation periods. The administrator will consider exceptions for Wednesday nights only, based upon legitimate circumstances, special occasions and emergency type situations. All teams or groups participating in off-campus extracurricular activities must have appropriate supervision. Single gender groups should have a chaperone of the same gender. HOMECOMING All activities for homecoming week shall be submitted to administration for approval. JUNIOR / SENIOR PROM The Junior Class and Junior Class Advisor shall be responsible for planning the annual Junior/Senior Prom. All plans, itineraries, and expenses must be pre-approved by the administration each year. SENIOR CLASS TRIP At a minimum, consideration to using a portion of the trip for missions or ministry work shall be given by the class and sponsors. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. The principal and administrator must approve the trip. No financial commitments can be made until the trip is approved. A parental planning meeting is required when the trip is approved. An itinerary, agenda and budget must be submitted to the administration two weeks prior to departure. The itinerary must include daily devotionals. Chaperones and sponsors must be from the VCA faculty. Parents of seniors may accompany the class. Appropriate modest dress is expected at all times. Swimsuit wear should follow the guidelines expected on overnight athletic trips, which means girls are required to wear one piece bathing suits, or a two piece suit with a t-shirt covering at all times for all school sponsored events. ATHLETICS VCA offers a variety of sports activities and is a member of the New Mexico Athletic Association (NMAA). We participate in all regular and post-season competition available for each sport. VCA shall meet all eligibility requirements established by the sanctioning organization. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Page 19 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs Parent should refer to the VCA Athletic/Activities Handbook for specific guidelines and rules regarding eligibility requirements. 1. All secondary students in good standing with VCA are eligible to participate in extracurricular activities. Students participating in Junior High and High School athletics must pass an annual physical exam administered by a physician of the parents’ choice. Written certification of the student’s eligibility to participate in athletics must be provided to the school before the student can participate in any athletic events or scheduled practices. 2. A student will be declared ineligible if any of the following exists: a. His/her grade point average drops below 2.0. b. He/she is failing in any one class. c. He/she receives two or more “D’s.” 3. New students admitted after the school year begins and who desire to participate in athletics, are required to meet with the athletic director prior to attending practice or an athletic event. PARENT’S RESPONSIBILITIES Parents whose students desire to participate in athletics are required to attend an annual Parent’s Athletic Meeting. The meeting will be held within the first two weeks of the new school year. All athletic fees, tuition, book and registration fees must be current for a student to participate in athletics. Detentions and suspensions take priority over practices or game attendance. MUSIC AT VCA ACTIVITIES 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. (Colossians 3:17) VCA believes that the music that is played during school sponsored events reflects the heart of the school. To that end, VCA has a policy that all music played at any school event glorifies God. The music teacher, or Bible teacher, will be in charge of all music used in chapel; live or recorded. They may confer with the administrator when necessary. The respective coach will be in charge of music used during the pre-game and post-game time periods. Coaches will coordinate the music with the Administrator or Athletic Director, who will audition the music and make a final decision. The administrator must give this approval before music is used at the game or practice. ACADEMICS In keeping with the Bible’s prediction that “knowledge shall increase” in the latter days, at VCA we recognize that any intended course of study only begins to scratch the surface of a particular subject area. A recent Emory University report highlighted the fact that knowledge in the 19 th century doubled every 50 years, whereas now it doubles almost every year. While there are basics to be learned (phonics for reading skills, basic math facts before Algebra, etc., scales before a musical composition) we acknowledge that part of what we do as a school is to instill in students a love for learning and exploration of a subject area. Reading skills are absolutely vital in producing “learners”, not just “knowers.” This includes the ability to critically analyze written or spoken material. ELEMENTARY (GRADES 1-5) COURSE OF STUDY The elementary curriculum at VCA has a strong emphasis on teaching reading through phonics, proper use of grammar, and learning the mathematical basics of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Without this foundation strongly in place, a child’s education will suffer. In the upper elementary grades, the coursework expands to include history, science and computer keyboarding skills. In all grades 1-6 the curriculum is rounded out with studies in art, music, physical education and Spanish. Library time is also available on a weekly basis. Page 20 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs JUNIOR HIGH (GRADES 6-8) COURSE OF STUDY The junior high school program of study includes: Literature, Grammar and Vocabulary/Spelling, Math 6/7 and 7/8, Pre-Algebra, American History, World History, Science, Spanish, Drama, PE, Computers, and Art. HIGH SCHOOL MINIMUM SCHOLASTIC REQUIREMENTS 25 units of credit are required English ...................................................................................... 4.0 credits Math ......................................................................................... 4.0 credits Social Studies ........................................................................... 3.5 credits (Full year of US History and World History; one semester each of Economics, Government, and New Mexico History) Science ...................................................................................... 3.0 credits Bible * ....................................................................................... 4.0 credits Foreign Language (Spanish) ................................................... 2.0 credits Physical Education .................................................................. 1.0 credit Health ....................................................................................... 0.5 credit Computers ................................................................................ 0.5 credit Speech ....................................................................................... 0.5 credit Electives .................................................................................... 2.0 credits Electives may include Art, Consumer Math, Drama, Teacher Aide, Yearbook, and others offered as available. Credit may not be given twice for the same course. *Transfer students are responsible for Bible credits for the time they attend VCA, but must have additional electives to cover the 25 credit requirement. Students who desire to attend college are strongly urged to take science courses beyond the minimum requirements. It is the responsibility of the high school student and his/her parents to know the course requirements for the colleges to which they apply. COURSE SELECTION Though every effort is made to enroll students in the electives they choose, the school reserves the right to change electives based on enrollment, staffing capabilities, and scheduling conflicts. Some electives may be changed at the semester break; others (e.g. yearbook class) require a full year commitment. Parents are required to sign off on initial course selection and any request for changes. The Administration has final authority in the decision making process. COURSE ADVISING Course and curriculum counseling shall be made available to all students in the 8th grade and a graduation credit review for those in the 10th grade. The purpose of the counseling in the 8 th grade is to insure that students understand what electives are available, what the graduation requirements are, and when and in what order classes should be taken. The 10th grade review is conducted to insure that students are on track for graduation. Counseling is also provided to transfer students. Personal counseling for non-academic issues should be sought through the student’s church or professional agencies. GRADUATION POLICY In order to graduate from VCA, a senior must comply with all graduation requirements of the school. A graduating senior must have attended VCA full time for two full years in order to be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian. The student must turn in all books and materials belonging to the school. All accounts must be paid in full before report cards, transcripts or diplomas can be released. A student who has not successfully completed graduation Page 21 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs requirements will lose the privilege of participating in the graduation ceremony. HONORS GRADUATES Honors graduates must graduate with a 3.5 GPA and above and have taken the following classes, in addition to their core graduation requirements: 4 years of Science, 4 years of Math (including 2 semesters of college math numbered MATH 107 and above) CLASS RANKING Class ranking for grades 9-12 will be determined by the GPA. Students with the same GPA (to the hundredths place) will share the rank. HONOR ROLL AND HONOR SOCIETY Students with above a 3.5 GPA (with no C's, D's or F's) are considered on the honor roll. Students with a 4.0 GPA are considered High Honors for the semester. Honor society members must maintain a 3.5 GPA and above and meet all character qualifications set by the VCA coordinator. VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN Valedictorian/Salutatorian will need to complete the honors graduation requirements in addition to having the highest GPA after the 1st semester of their senior year. GPA ties (to the hundredths decimal place) will share the honor as co-valedictorian. A graduating senior must have attended VCA full time for two full years in order to be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian. All grades will be scaled to a 4.0 scale. ENMU-R CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT Concurrent Enrollment refers to enrollment of capable secondary-level students in academic and/or vocational courses at post-secondary institutions, for which they are eligible to receive credit at both the high school and post-secondary levels. Conditions for concurrent enrollment are to be defined by written agreements between VCA and the postsecondary institution. Students who enroll in classes at ENMU-R must have prior approval from the VCA Administration and will receive credit in accordance with VCA’s credit system. If the class is a required core credit needed for graduation, the student must maintain a passing grade or he/she will not be allowed to graduate. It is the responsibility of the student to request his/her transcript be sent form ENMU-R to VCA upon completion of the course. Tuition is waived for dual credit courses offered at VCA. Students taking dual credit at VCA will be required to pay for the cost of the required college books and fees, unless VCA has the books that the student can use. Books can be purchased at the ENMU-R bookstore or online. GRADING SCALE AND PROCEDURES The grading scale for VCA is as follows: Elementary and Junior High Classes 90 -100 = A 80 - 89 = B 70 - 79 = C 60 - 69 = D 59 or less = F High School Classes 90 -100 = A = 4.0 80 - 89 = B = 3.0 70 - 79 = C = 2.0 60 - 69 = D = 1.0 59 0r less = F = 0.0 Report cards are issued on a quarterly basis. To receive credit for a full year, a high school student must have a passing average for each semester. Page 22 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs Teachers in all grades send home mid-quarter progress reports to keep parents informed of their student’s progress. When sent home with the student, parents are to sign the reports and return them to the student’s teacher the following school day. FAILED CLASSES As stated elsewhere, the intent of VCA is to be a college preparatory school. To this end, the workload is sometimes difficult. Students learn to persevere through hard work and persistence. When a student is struggling, the following steps are taken: ELEMENTARY (GRADES 1-6) If a student has a grade of 69 or lower in reading or mathematics, teachers will call the parent to set a conference with family, teacher and administration. The conference will be to discuss the student’s progress and possible retention, and will usually be done by the end of 3rd quarter at the latest. JUNIOR HIGH (GRADES 7-8) If a junior high student has a grade of 69 or lower in any core subject at the end of first semester, the teacher of that class will contact the family in January to set a conference with family, teacher, and administration. If a student fails a core course or any two courses, it is possible that he/she will be required to repeat the grade. Core classes are defined as English, Math, History, or Science. Students who fail a core course will need to make summer school arrangements to keep on track with their class. HIGH SCHOOL Students who fail a required class in a given semester must retake the class in order to meet VCA graduation requirements. If they fail a core class, the class must be made up before the beginning of the next school year. Classes must be made up in summer school, with courses approved by the administration. Any other options must be approved in writing by the administration. HOMEWORK In a college prep academic program, homework is a very necessary part of a student’s education. It is important in teaching self-discipline and perseverance. Homework will range from short reading assignments in the 1st grade to approximately 2 hours or more per night in high school. It is expected that students will complete assignments in their entirety and on time. (See the discipline code). Home work is not assigned on Wednesday night so that students may attend mid-week church services. BUILDING AND GROUNDS Students will often be asked to help clean, move tables, etc, as part of the process of learning to serve others. HAZARDS Teachers and students are to be on the alert for potential hazards, including holes, foreign objects, worn equipment, etc. If they have any question about the safety of an activity or piece of equipment they should place it “off limits’ and report the problem in writing to the custodian or administration. EMERGENCIES In case of an emergency, such as fire, call 911 and notify the office. For criminal damage to the property, notify the administration, which will contact the local law enforcement agency. FIRE ESCAPE Page 23 of 24 Section 100 – Admissions and Student Affairs Fire escape passages and exits are to be clear to allow unobstructed travel and exits. All doors should be able to be opened from the inside to exit in case of an emergency. Fire exits and routes are to be clearly marked. PROPERTY ACCOUNTABILITY The school maintains a property accountability program to manage and oversee proper use of materials, equipment and other property. Page 24 of 24
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