MT. VERNON
CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
HOME OF THE CRUSADERS!!
36 Years of Excellence
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2008-2009 Parent / Student Handbook
A Ministry of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church
2178 Hwy 138, Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone (770) 474-1313 Fax (770) 474-3010 Email: info@mvcs.us Web: www.mvcs.us
Affirmation Form
TO BE SIGNED BY THE PARENTS AND RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE BEFORE THE END OF THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL (Student attendance at MVCS may be suspended pending the signing and submission of this form)
I have read this Parent/Student Handbook. I have thoroughly reviewed and understand the following REVISED policies: · Admission and Financial Policies · Appearance and Conduct Policies
Further, I will totally support, and I am in agreement with the established policies and procedures as outlined therein.
______________________________________________________________________________ Parent Signature Date
PERSONAL EMAIL ADDRESS___________________________________________________________
Church I attend:________________________________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
Pastor’s Name ________________________________________________________________
My student(s):
Student Name______________________________________________Grade ______________
Student Name_____________________________________________ Grade ______________
Student Name_____________________________________________ Grade ______________
Student Name_____________________________________________ Grade ______________
Student Name_____________________________________________ Grade ______________
Student Name_____________________________________________ Grade ______________
MT. VERNON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PARENT - STUDENT HANDBOOK 2008-2009 TABLE OF CONTENTS
The School Board of Mt. Vernon Christian School reserves the right to amend, alter, add, or delete information from this Handbook at any time as deemed necessary.
WELCOME TO MT. VERNON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL A new school year is an exciting time, filled with the anticipation of school events: studies and classes, ball games, field trips, rules, regulations, etc. It is also a time of decisions that will affect your life. We know that you will get from Mt. Vernon Christian School exactly what you put into the time you invest. Our desire is to instill an appreciation of the importance of godly living in the heart and life of every student in our school. "...that in all things He might have the preeminence." Colossians 1:18 The intent of this Parent-Student Handbook is to establish guidelines for a consistent program throughout the school year. It is impossible to cover every situation, but basic policies and operational procedures are generally covered in this manual. It is imperative that the home and school cooperate and work together to provide the best educational and spiritual opportunities for your child(ren). Welcome to Mt. Vernon Christian School! FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT The following information is considered “directory information” (under terms of the “Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act”) and may be published or disseminated as appropriate: name of student and parents; home address; home phone number; student’s birth date; e-mail address(es); class schedule; height and weight (for students involved in athletics); dates of attendance; honors and awards; clubs and teams to which the student belongs; pictures of the student participating in school events. If you would prefer that any or all of this information not be released (for example, in the official student directory), please notify the school office in writing, letting us know which information you do not want classified as “directory information.”
Mt. Vernon Christian School may release such directory information to college and/or military recruiters. If you wish that such information not be made available to any recruiters, please notify the school office in writing. MISSION STATEMENT “As a school of excellence, we will produce students of influence that will impact their generation and the world for the cause of Christ." Mt. Vernon Christian School is a ministry of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church and falls under the guidance and bylaws of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church. Founded in 1974 as an outreach ministry of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, we have dedicated our purpose to training individuals the way God trained His own Son. The Bible declares in Luke 2:52 "And Jesus increased in wisdom [mentally] and stature [physically] and in favor with God [spiritually] and man [socially]." If these areas are important for the training of God’s only Son, should we care less about our children? To miss development in any of the above areas is to fail to educate the whole student. Our objective is for students to have a personal knowledge of Jesus Christ while receiving a superior academic education. The home and school must form a partnership for the education of each student. Training received here should be an extension of the home life of the student. It is our desire to form a partnership with the home in the educational process of the child. The Bible clearly states that the responsibility of educating children belongs to the home, primarily with the father. We believe that as we work together, the child will understand the importance of this partnership and grow into the child that the Lord desires for him or her to become. The philosophical basis for our school is the Biblical, God-centered view of man and truth. Ultimate truth is God’s truth as revealed by His Word. Man, apart from God, is devoid of ultimate truth. Man can find truth through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Therefore, at Mt. Vernon Christian School, we seek to bring our students into Christian fellowship with God through our integrated Christian education. Biblical principles are taught in every academic subject. Properly taught, each subject should only reveal to the students more about their Creator and His purpose in each life. THE SCRIPTURES: We believe in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as verbally inspired by God and inerrant in the original writings, embracing all matters which the Biblical authors address, and that they are of supreme and final authority in faith and life. The scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by the inspiration of God, and are the only sufficient, certain, and authoritative rule of all saving knowledge, faith and obedience. GOD: There is but one God, the Maker, Preserver, and Ruler of all things; having in and of Himself all perfection, and being infinite in them all; and to Him all creatures owe the highest love, reverence, and obedience. TRINITY: We believe in one God-eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent, existing as three persons…The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is revealed to us as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each being with distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence, or being. JESUS CHRIST: We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ was begotten by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, and that He is both true God and true man. PROVIDENCE: God from eternity decrees or permits all things that come to pass, and perpetually upholds, directs, and governs all creatures and all events. He is never the author or approver of sin, nor desires to destroy the free will and responsibility of intelligent creatures. ELECTION: Election is God’s eternal choice of some persons unto everlasting life--not because of foreseen merit in them, but of His mere mercy in Christ--in consequence of which choice they are called, justified, and glorified. THE FALL OF MAN: God originally created man in His own image, and free from sin; but through the temptation of Satan, man transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original holiness and righteousness; whereby his posterity inherits a nature corrupt and wholly opposed to God and His law, are under condemnation, and as soon as they are capable of moral action, become actual transgressors. THE MEDIATOR: Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, is the divinely appointed mediator between God and man. Having taken upon Himself human nature, yet without sin, He perfectly fulfilled the law, suffered, and died upon the cross for the salvation of sinners. He was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended to His Father, at whose right hand He ever lives to make intercession for His people. He is the only Mediator, the Prophet, Priest, and King of the Church, and Sovereign of the universe. REGENERATION: Regeneration is a change of heart, wrought by the Holy Spirit, who quickens the dead in trespasses and sins, enlightening their minds spiritually to understand the Word of God, and renewing their whole nature, so that they love and practice holiness. It is a work of God’s free and special grace alone. REPENTANCE: Repentance is an evangelical grace, wherein a person being, by the Holy Spirit, made sensible of the manifold evil of his sin, humbles himself for it, with godly sorrow, detestation of it, and self abhorrence, with a purpose and endeavor to walk with God so as to please Him in all things. FAITH: Saving faith is the belief, on God’s authority, of whatsoever is revealed in His Word concerning Christ; accepting and resting upon Him alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life. It is wrought in the heart by the Holy Spirit, and is accompanied by all other saving graces, and leads to a life of holiness. JUSTIFICATION: Justification is God’s gracious and full acquittal of sinners, who believe in Christ, from all sin, through the satisfaction that Christ has made; not for anything wrought in them or done by them; but on account of the obedience and satisfaction of Christ, receiving and resting on Him and His righteousness by faith. SANCTIFICATION: Those who have been regenerated are also sanctified, by God’s Word and Spirit dwelling in them. This sanctification is progressive through the supply of Divine strength, which all the saints seek to obtain, pressing after a heavenly life in cordial obedience to all Christ’s commands. PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS: Those whom God hath accepted in the Beloved, and sanctified by His Spirit, will never totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace, but shall certainly persevere to the end; and though they may fall, through neglect and temptation, into sin, whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, bring reproach on the Church, and temporal judgments on themselves, yet they shall be renewed again unto repentance, and be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. THE CHURCH: The Lord Jesus is the Head of the church, which is composed of all His true disciples, and in Him is invested supremely all power for its government. According to His commandments, Christians are to unite with local churches; and to each of these churches He hath given needful authority for administering that order, discipline and worship which He hath appointed. The regular officers of a church are Pastors and Deacons. BAPTISM: Baptism is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus, obligatory upon every believer wherein he is immersed in water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, as a sign of his fellowship with the death and resurrection of Christ, of remission of sins, and of giving himself up to God, to live and walk in newness of life. It is a prerequisite to church membership and to participation in the Lord’s Supper . THE LORD’S SUPPER: The Lord’s Supper is an ordinance of Jesus Christ, to be administered with the elements of bread and the cup, and to be observed by His churches till the end of the world. It is in no sense a sacrifice, but is designed to commemorate His death, to confirm the faith and other graces of Christians, and to be a bond, pledge, and renewal of their communion with Him and of their church fellowship. THE LORD’S DAY: The Lord’s Day is a Christian institution for regular observance, and should be employed in exercises of worship and spiritual devotion, both public and private, resting from worldly employments, works of necessity and mercy only accepted. LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE: God alone is Lord of the conscience; and He hath left it free from the doctrines and commandments of men, which are in anything contrary to His Word, or not contained in it. Civil magistrates being ordained of God, subjection in all lawful things commanded by them ought to be yielded by us in the Lord, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. THE RESURRECTION: The bodies of men after death return to dust, but their spirits return immediately to God; the righteous to rest with Him; the wicked, to be reserved under darkness to the judgment. At the last day, the bodies of all the dead, both just and unjust, will be raised. THE JUDGMENT: God hath appointed a day, wherein He will judge the whole world by Jesus Christ, when every one shall receive according to his deeds; the wicked shall go away into everlasting punishment; the righteous into everlasting life. The purpose of Mt. Vernon Christian School is to provide a well-rounded educational program, through which a young person will come to know about Christ, develop a personal relationship with Him, and be encouraged to follow God’s plan and perfect will for his life. This is accomplished: 1. through godly teachers living before their students a sterling example of the reality of Christ in their own lives (MODELING); 2. through chapel services where students are challenged to follow Christ and know Him more and be led to make practical decisions concerning their everyday lives (SPIRITUAL); 3. through a curriculum where the Word of God is woven throughout (EDUCATIONAL); 4. through activities that stretch a young person’s limits and build character (PHYSICAL); 5. through a safe, drug-free, disciplined, loving environment (SOCIAL); 6. through consistent enforcement of godly principles and preferences of conduct, behavior, and appearance (MOLDING); 7. through opportunities to get out of the classroom and into the community in order to share Christ with a sin-cursed world (EVANGELISTIC); and 8. through exposing them to college and career opportunities and encouragement to continue on a track of Christian education (MATURING).
CHAPEL A chapel time is set aside each week for all students as a means of presenting the tenets of the Christian faith and to develop strong moral character based upon biblical preaching. Our intent is that this required activity would make each child aware of his personal accountability to God. Each chapel is designed for the age-appropriateness of the child. The chapel day for elementary school is Thursday. Elementary students have separate chapels that are age-appropriate. Chapel service for all students in grades 7-12 are also held on Thursdays. These are exciting and vibrant times of worship and celebration. The goal of all MVCS chapels is to provide the students an opportunity to join in corporate praise and worship, and to see, through the teaching of God’s Word, a clearer picture of the Lord Jesus Christ and His place in the lives of each of our students and faculty. We invite many local pastors and preachers, as well as our own staff (Senior Pastor, Faculty members, Headmaster, etc.), to challenge the students to a holy and separated life in Christ. ADMISSION AND FINANCIAL POLICIES Mt. Vernon Christian School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights and privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, athletic or other school-administered programs. Academic records and references from the school previously attended are required. All Mt. Vernon Christian School students must have State of Georgia Form #3231 showing proof of immunization on file in the school office. Effective July 1, 2007, the Georgia Department of Human Resources instituted new regulations for immunization. Please contact your pediatrician or local health department if you are unsure of the status of your child’s immunization records. Students participating in the sports program must also have a recent physical examination by a licensed physician before being allowed to participate in sports activities. All accounts, which include before/after care charges, lunch charges, detention fees and book fees, must be paid in full before a student can participate in graduation activities, awards presentations, class or school field trips, senior final exams, senior trip, or sports related activities including cheerleading. Items included in the tuition such as yearbooks and pictures will not be issued if accounts are past due. Test score profiles or report cards will not be issued if accounts are past due. In addition, all accounts must be paid in full before any records will be transferred to another school or individual. All accounts from the previous school year must be paid in full before a student can begin a new school year. By law, Mt. Vernon Christian School is not able to accept post-dated checks. Contact the Business Office if you have specific needs regarding check depositing. ALL FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS SHOULD BE MADE AT THE SCHOOL'S BUSINESS OFFICE TO INSURE PROPER CREDIT; however, accounts may be paid by mail to the following address: Attn: Business Office Mt. Vernon Christian School 2178 Hwy 138 Stockbridge, GA 30281 If an account becomes forty-five (45) days delinquent, the parent will be asked to withdraw his/her student from school and/or meet with the Headmaster or School Board. The student cannot be reinstated until the account is brought current, or until this meeting has taken place. If an account becomes sixty (60) days delinquent, the account will be turned over to a collection agency, and appropriate reporting will be made to the major credit reporting agencies. During any delinquent periods, all grade reports, progress reports, and mid-term/final exams will be held. In addition, a report of students whose parents have delinquent accounts may be published internally to assist teachers in the administration of this policy. FEES AND TUITION (ALL FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE) Kingdom Kids Preschool Mt. Vernon Christian School
TUITION RATES (K3 THROUGH GRADE 12) FOR THE 2008-2009 SCHOOL YEAR
ENROLLMENT-RE-ENROLLMENT FEE (due with application) · Kingdom Kids PreSchool Enrollment (K3 & K4) – $350.00 (Non-Refundable – all new students ) · Kingdom Kids PreSchool Re-Enrollment (K4 only) - $300.00 if paid before March 1st; $350.00 on or after March 1st (Non-Refundable) · MVCS Enrollment/Placement - $350.00 (Non-Refundable- all new students) · MVCS Re-Enrollment/Placement if paid before March 1st - $300.00; $350.00 on or after March 1st (Non-Refundable) · New Student Testing - $25.00 (Testing may be required for new 1st-12th grade students before admittance to MVCS. This fee will only be assessed if testing is required.)
**Any family that voluntarily paid the $50.00 RenWeb fee during the 2007-2008 school year will receive a $50.00 discount off their enrollment fees for 2008-2009. If additional fees were paid toward RenWeb because of multiple children attending MVCS, the total of all RenWeb fees paid will be deducted from the total of all enrollment fees required for the 2008-2009 school year.
TUITION (excluding enrollment/re-enrollment fees)
**does not include any extended overnight field trips; a gas surcharge may be required per student for field trips
· The Enrollment/Re-Enrollment Fees and the first month’s tuition are non-refundable. · Tuition fees are due by 1st of each month starting July 1st; Late charge ($50.00) will be assessed after the 15th of the month
EXTENDED CARE – School Days Only Before Care = $3.00 7:00 to 7:45 AM After Care = $3.00 per hour (regardless of how much of the hour is used) 3:00 to 6:00 PM $1.00 per minute will be charged after 6:00 PM. Failure to keep the extended care account current beyond 45 days will result in a family being prohibited from using these services.
DISCOUNTS (apply to tuition only) · Pre-Pay for full year tuition--All tuition paid BEFORE July 1st – 5% discount · Mt. Vernon Baptist Church Qualified Active Member Discount--40% discount for actively tithing members. The family must have been qualified, active members for at least one year, prior to the discount being requested. (Yearly renewal required – Applications available in church and school offices) · Full-time Pastors and Missionaries--10% discount applied after total tuition bill is calculated · Multi-Child Discount (Applies to school tuition only. Each child must be from the same family with same parent paying)--2nd/3rd Child – 10% off yearly tuition; 4th (or higher) child – 50% off yearly tuition
**No more than 2 discounts can be applied per family.
FINANCIAL AID Financial aid availability is determined through FFNA. Application forms and details are available in the Business Office. Application forms must be submitted and returned by June 1st. No further discounts are available for families that choose to accept financial aid. Late and Returned check charges: Tuition payments are considered late after the 15th of each month. A $50.00 service charge will be assessed for all accounts paid after the 15th of the month. A $30.00 service charge will be assessed for each returned check. A second NSF check will result in the school not being able to accept any further checks for any payments. Payments will then have to be made by cash, cashier’s check, or money order. By law, Mt. Vernon Christian School is not able to accept post-dated checks. Contact the Business Office if you have specific needs regarding check depositing. Lost or Damaged Textbook/Library Book Fee: Fees vary depending on book cost. In order to receive final test scores, diplomas, or report cards, all fees must be paid in full. For secondary students only: 1. Honors Class Fee – varies depending on course. 2. Lost/Damaged Lock Fee: $10.00 3. Detention Hall Fee: $10.00 (due on day of detention assignment)
ENROLLMENT POLICY, PROCEDURES AND TESTING The enrollment process of Mt. Vernon Christian School is based on the following steps: 1. The application/enrollment packet is filled out and brought to the school by the parent along with the non-refundable enrollment fee. 2. New students may be required to take a placement test at the Headmaster’s discretion. All new students will be asked to furnish the office with results of a recent achievement test if applicable. If further testing is required by the Headmaster, an abbreviated achievement test will be administered at MVCS for a $25.00 fee. The results of the test will be considered as part of the admissions procedure along with information gathered from interviews and other application data. The tests used are accepted as giving valid predictive information about the applicant’s capabilities. 3. A separate interview by both student and parent(s) with the Principal or Headmaster may be held before the final admissions process is complete. 4. The following age requirements are not negotiable: · K3 – a student must be 3 by September 1st of the current school year · K4 – a student must be 4 by September 1st of the current school year · K5 – a student must be 5 by September 1st of the current school year Acceptance is based upon evidence of academic ability, a favorable interview, and available space. In as much as students have different maturation rates, Mt. Vernon Christian School accepts the obligation to work with a child and family to determine the proper placement of the child. The parents/guardians’ acceptance of school guidelines is a requirement for admission. The Mt. Vernon Christian School Headmaster shall make final admission decisions. All tuition is due on the 1st of each month (Past due after the 15th). It is our desire to make tuition plans convenient for your family. The following tuition plans are available: One Payment Plan – 5% discount for full payment by July 1st. All enrollment/re-enrollment fees MUST be paid in full prior in order to receive this discount. Monthly Payment Plan (Eleven Months) - This plan divides tuition into eleven payments, with the first payment due on or before July 1st. The monthly payment plan ends in the month of May with the final tuition payment due by May 1st. After enrollment, if a student is transferred or withdrawn from MVCS for any reason, withdrawal arrangements must be made through the main school office. Tuition will be pro-rated based on the actual number of school days attended plus five days; all other fees are non-refundable. This also applies to students who enroll at MVCS after the first day of school. Please notify the main office of the intended withdrawal date at least one week in advance. Before withdrawal can be completed, the parent must sign the Withdrawal Form available in the office, make sure all fees are paid (tuition, extended care, detention, books, lunch, etc.), and return all school belongings (textbooks, library books, sports uniforms, locks, etc.). Once all of these actions are completed, scholastic records and any tuition refunds will be authorized to be released. If a child is not formally withdrawn by a parent/guardian, the child is considered absent, and tuition will continue to be charged until a Withdrawal Form is signed in the school office. GENERAL INFORMATION The Headmaster of Mt. Vernon Christian School is given the responsibility for the overall operation of the school. The School Board oversees the policies and procedures of the school, and the Headmaster reports to the School Board at its monthly meetings. The Senior Pastor of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church has final authority over Mt. Vernon Christian School. All members of the administration work together for the oversight and smooth operation of the school. AFFILIATIONS AND ACCREDITATION Mt. Vernon Christian School is a member in good standing with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), The American Association of Christian Schools (AACS), the Georgia Association of Christian Schools (GACS), and the Southern Baptist Association of Christian Schools (SBACS). We are active members of these organizations, which provide leadership in strengthening existing schools and offering a voice in legal matters at both the state and national levels. Mt. Vernon Christian School is accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC), and each teacher, K5- 12th grade, is required to have and maintain full certification by ACSI. MVCS is also working toward full school accreditation by ACSI and SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.) In order to avoid traffic backups in the afternoon, the following instructions should be adhered to: Students in K3, K4, and K5 will be dismissed at 3:00 p.m. Students in grades 1 through 6 will be dismissed at 3:15 p.m. Students in grades 7 - 12 will be dismissed at 3:30 p.m. Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and K5 Before Care begins at 7:00 A.M. and is held in the Pre-K 4 classroom. Before Care for Grades 1-12 is held in the school gymnasium. Charge for this service is assessed per day at a rate announced in the tuition/fee information page. Beginning at 7:45 a.m., the school offers free Before Care service for MVCS families, but students must report to the appropriate area. After Care is held for Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and K5 in the Pre-K4 classroom. After Care for Grades 1-12 is held in the school gymnasium. PreK-3 – K5 After Care begins at 3:15 p.m. Grades 1-6 After Care begins at 3:30 P.M. Grades 7-12 After Care begins at 3:45 P.M. Grades 1-12 After Care begins with a 30 minute homework session, followed by supervised free time. Charge for this service is assessed per day at a rate announced in the tuition/fee information page. After Care ends promptly at 6:00 P.M. A fee of $1.00 per minute is charged for students who are picked up after 6:00 PM. After 3 incidents of late pick up, a family will be prohibited from using aftercare services until a conference is held with the Headmaster. The police will be called to pick up any child left beyond 6:30 PM. Failure to keep the extended care account current beyond 45 days will result in a family being prohibited from using these services. All students who remain on campus after 15 minutes past dismissal are to report to After Care. Due to potential legal issues arising from unsupervised students, ALL STUDENTS WHO REMAIN ON CAMPUS ARE TO REPORT TO AFTER CARE. Students who are involved in scheduled school activities and/or sports practices must report to the supervising teacher/coach. Brothers and/or sisters of students who are involved in after-school activities are NOT permitted to attend practices/activities in lieu of AfterCare. CARPOOLS The school encourages parents/guardians to form carpools to transport students to and from school. The school office will give as much help as possible by supplying a list of other parents/guardians who wish to carpool. Parents/guardians have the responsibility to contact one another for carpool arrangements. Transportation to local daycare centers is available and can be arranged by contacting the center. Transportation is provided by the daycare center and not MVCS. COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE HEADMASTER The Headmaster maintains an “open door policy” for parents. Appointments may be helpful but are not required. The Headmaster may also be reached via email link from the school website www.mvcs.us. During the school year, office hours are 7:30 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.; summer office hours are 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (M-Th) and 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon on Fridays unless otherwise posted. Mt. Vernon Christian School does not provide health/accident insurance for its students. Parents/guardians are responsible for any health expenses incurred by their child(ren), including doctor's office visits, emergency room or other hospital services, and emergency transportation. Lockers are for students in grades 7 – 12 and must be kept locked at all times. A locker found unlocked during a locker check will result in a class D offense (see discipline policy for students in grades 7-12). For the use of the gym locker room lockers, only the locks distributed by the school will be used. Lockers must be kept neat at all times. Any pictures must be appropriate and Christ honoring. The Administration may inspect lockers at any time. Students are encouraged not to give out their lock combination to others. Items stolen or misplaced from lockers will be the responsibility of the student. The replacement fee for a gym locker room lock is $10.00. Please label all items and articles of clothing - jackets, books, notebooks, book bags, etc. - with the student’s name. The lost and found area for all ages will be the receptionist’s desk. A display of lost and found items will be set up in the gym once each grading period during the school year. Parents/guardians will be notified in the school newsletter or on the school website of the display dates. Students and parents/guardians may visit the display area and claim any personal belongings. Items that are not claimed will be donated to charity.
• All medication MUST be brought to school in its original container. Medications brought in baggies or other unmarked containers cannot be given. Prescription medication should be in the pharmacy container labeled with the child’s name, date, and name of medication, name of the prescribing physician, time(s) the medication is to be given and name of the pharmacy filling the prescription. A request can be made through the pharmacist for two-labeled prescription bottles so that one bottle can be kept at home and one at school.
• A “Request for Administration of Medication” form (located in the back of this Handbook or available in the school office) must be completed by the parent/guardian (and physician if the medication needs to be given for longer than two weeks, such as Ritalin) and sent to school along with the medication.
• Medication that needs to be given daily or two/three times a day should not be given at school unless the physician specifically states a time during the school day at which it is to be given. An antibiotic which is to be given three times daily can be given before the child leaves for school, when he/she gets home, and at bedtime.
STORAGE AND DISPOSAL OF MEDICATION
1. Medications will be stored in a secure, locked, cleaned area in a central place accessible only to designated school personnel. 2. The stock maintained for individual controlled substance prescriptions should be limited to no more than a 30-day supply.
Self-Administration of Medications
1. In order to encourage and promote independence and self-sufficiency in the student with a chronic illness, MVCS will allow certain student controlled medications and medical equipment necessary for administration. It is in the best interest of the student in certain circumstances to personally control necessary medications (i.e., inhalers).
2) Self-administration must be specific to the student’s abilities and level of understanding and must be discussed with the Headmaster and/or his designee with input from health care providers, family/guardians, and the student. Parent/family involvement and coordination and ongoing student education must be established before a self-administration regimen is implemented. A written agreement among all parties (parent, student, school, and provider) is required, and must include medication and conditions of self-administration or other special circumstances as determined by parent, student, school, and provider.
3) Student controlled medications should be limited to inhalers, glucose tablets (treatment for hypoglycemia/low blood sugar), and EpiPen. All other medications including methylphenidate, insulin, over-the-counter medications, and medication for short- and long-term student use, should be stored in a central locked storage area as per the guidelines herein. LUNCHES Students may bring lunch from home or participate in our hot lunch program. A menu will be published and will be available for the student and parent on a monthly basis. Students order their lunch at the beginning of each school day. Lunch tickets are available for purchase at $20.00 each, or students may bring money from home each day. Microwave ovens are available for student use. Please feel free to consult with the school office regarding any questions or problems that concern your child. It is the desire of the administration and the faculty to be of service to both the parent and the student. Parent - teacher conferences or classroom visits are welcome; however, prior arrangements or appointments must be made. When parents/guardians or visitors come to the school for any reason, in order not to interrupt, PLEASE COME TO THE OFFICE FIRST; DO NOT GO DIRECTLY TO THE CLASSROOM. Forgotten lunches may be left in the office for the students. Mt. Vernon Christian School is a closed campus. No unauthorized visitors will be allowed on campus. All visitors must enter through the door near the reception area of the gym building, and must immediately check in with the office before going to the classrooms in order to obtain a Visitor Pass. The visitor identification must be visible at all times. MOMS IN TOUCH; MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) Moms In Touch is a teacher-support group that meets to pray for the entire school and its programs, staff, faculty and student body, manages Teacher Appreciation Week activities, and various “Thank You” ministries throughout the year. Meetings are informal and scheduled as needed. MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) meet informally to pray for the MVCS Pre-School Program, assist with any needed pre-school functions, and organize and manage the “Christmas Shop,” the annual pre-school fundraiser. For all the support groups, parents will be notified of all meetings, and participation is encouraged. The nature of the meetings will vary from time to time, but the general objectives are as follows: To collectively pray for MVCS and its programs and ministries. To acquaint the parent with the philosophy of Christian education and the curriculum of the school To acquaint both parent and teacher with the importance of recognizing and adequately coping with the emotional, spiritual, and disciplinary needs of the child To provide an opportunity for parents and teachers to know and fellowship with each other To provide parents/guardians an opportunity to see the achievements of the students and also for various students and classes to perform a planned program To inform parents/guardians of PTF activities and fundraisers and to solicit volunteers for these functions Note: If lengthy discussions with your child’s teacher are necessary, please schedule an after-school conference. 7:00 a.m. – 8:05 a.m. Before Care (K3 through Grade 12**) **All students arriving at school before 8:05 MUST report to Before Care. Charges for Before Care end at 7:45, with free Before Care after 7:45 8:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Pre-School (K3 & K4) and Kindergarten (K5) 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Grades 1 through 6 8:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Grades 7 through 12 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. After Care (K3-12***) ***Seventh through twelfth grade students who stay after 3:30 p.m. and are not involved in a school-sponsored activity, sports team, or help class, will be required to go to After Care and will be charged accordingly. SCHOOL COLORS – Red and White SCHOOL MASCOT - "Crusader" SCHOOL VERSE - "I have no greater joy than to know that my children walk in truth” 3 John 4 Students who drive to school must have a parking permit. Applications for parking permits can be obtained from the high school office. Applications must be completed, signed by a parent or guardian, and returned to the high school office. Parking at the school without a valid permit will result in a Class D offense. Students who drive their cars to school must observe the following regulations: All students must display the parking permit in the vehicle on the rear-view mirror with the number showing through the windshield. Students will park their vehicles in areas designated by the Headmaster. Students must leave their vehicles upon arrival at school and stay out of parked vehicles until leaving school grounds as authorized. Speed limits, as well as caution and courtesy on school property, must be observed at all times. Courtesy includes radio volume. Radios/CD/Tape Players must not be played at a volume level that can be heard outside the vehicle Reckless driving may result in a Class C or B offense (see Discipline Guidelines). Any student who has had school driving privileges revoked will not be allowed to drive on church or school property, unless accompanied by a parent. Vehicles parked on school grounds are done so at the owner’s risk. MVCS assumes no liability for the vehicle or the property within the vehicle. TELEPHONES/CELL PHONES The telephones in the school are for school business. If a student is sick, a secretary or the school nurse will call for the student. Please do not call the school and ask to speak to a student because no student will be called out of class to talk on the telephone. To help teach all students responsibility, calls cannot be made to ask for a forgotten book or assignment, P.E. clothes, etc. In the case of an emergency, please call the office and an administrator or staff member will handle it. According to Georgia Code 20-2-1183, students are not allowed to have cell phones, pagers, and/or beepers, or other portable communication devices, in the "on" position while in any building during school hours. Violation will result in confiscation of the device until further notice. Once confiscated, these devices may only be picked up by a parent in the school office. They will not be returned to the student. Students may not keep cell phones on their belts or in their purses during school hours. Cell phones must be kept in the student’s locker or automobile in the “off” position. Students interested in attending/enrolling in MVCS are cordially invited to visit our campus during school hours for a planned visit. These visits must be approved through the school office and the Headmaster. These students will be paired with a current MVCS student to spend a half-day or a whole day. All student visitors must be appropriately and modestly attired. In accordance with our closed campus policy, boyfriends, girlfriends, or out-of-town visitors are not allowed to visit MVCS without strict administrative approval. The school’s website address is http://www.mvcs.us. This site will be used to communicate important information to the parents/guardians and students regarding Mt. Vernon Christian School. In addition, a section will be utilized to provide parents/guardians with class assignments for students. Every effort will be made to keep the site updated regularly.
ACADEMIC POLICIES Mt. Vernon Christian School recognizes a God-given responsibility to participate in molding the life and character of each student entrusted to us. Teachers, in partnership with parents/guardians, are personally and collectively responsible for each student receiving a good foundation for what lies ahead. With this in mind, Mt. Vernon Christian School seeks the following goals in the academic development of each child: o The students will be encouraged and motivated to achieve at their highest level of ability to the glory of God.
o The students will perform at an acceptable level of competency in the basics as delineated in our curriculum scope and sequence, which should enable them to function adequately in our society.
o The students will demonstrate good study habits through the satisfactory completion of various assignments.
o The students will demonstrate development and progress in communicating through verbal and non-verbal methods.
o The students will demonstrate ability to work independently by following directions and completing various assignments.
o The students will use the Bible as the ultimate source of truth as they develop their creative and critical thinking processes.
o The students will learn that the Scriptures teach that God created man in His image. They will be encouraged to appreciate the God-given creative abilities in others and themselves.
o The students will appreciate our American heritage. They should be able to demonstrate an attitude of patriotic spirit and good citizenship through current events and government. ACADEMIC PROBATION (Grades 7 – 12) Because of the partnership we share with the home, we consider academic success and progress to be a priority. MVCS offers tutoring for students who struggle academically. This is available through: *the student’s teachers, or *by a student mentor program sponsored by the National Honor Society members. Students who have a total of 4 points or more on any six-week report card will be required to begin one of the above options. (F = 2 points; D+, D, or D- = 1 point). In addition, students with 4 or more points on any report card will automatically be placed on academic probation. Any student placed on academic probation will be prohibited from participating in sports or other extra-curricular activities. The Headmaster will arrange a meeting with the student, the parents/guardians, and the teachers involved. At this point, an agreement will be reached to insure positive academic progress. Any student who receives 4 or more points in two consecutive grading periods may be subject to immediate dismissal from MVCS. Stanford Achievement Tests and Otis Lennon School Ability Tests are administered to students in grades K5 - 11 each spring. (Seniors are exempted from Stanford Testing and are not required to be in school until after the daily testing session concludes.) Appointments may be arranged through the office for parents/guardians wishing to discuss achievement test scores. ADVANCED PLACEMENT TESTING / HONORS PROGRAM The Honors Program at MVCS is a specialized academic program offering college-level course instruction following the curriculum supplied by the College Board. Since Honors courses are the most rigorous courses offered at MVCS, they carry a weighted GPA value equivalent to 5.0, giving more academic credit to students electing to take these rigorous courses. Entrance requirements for this program include: 1) written permission of the instructor to be presented prior to scheduling; 2) a cumulative grade average of a “B” or more in the previous “like-subject” courses taken; and 3) the pre-determined Honors Course Fee paid to the Business Office prior to scheduling.
All students admitted to the Honors Program must maintain a “B” average or better in the selected Honors Course in order to maintain Honors Status (weighted GPA credit). When a student’s grade falls below a “B” average, the student will be placed on probation for a three-week period, after which he/she may continue on Honors Status only if the current grade has improved to meet requirements. Any student whose average drops below an “85” for the year will be assigned to a non-weighted, standard grading scale for the remainder of the school year
The Advanced Placement Test (administered at MVCS in May) is required for a student to receive Honors (weighted) credit. Any student who does not take the Honors Exam for their chosen subject will receive standard credit (non-weighted) for GPA calculations. Students must maintain an 85 average or better in order to maintain Honors Status (weighted grading). . All Honors course teachers MUST administer a final course exam in accordance with MVCS final exam requirements regardless if the students elect to take the Honors Exam or not. BOOK CARE All textbooks must have a book cover on them for protection. This needs to be done within the first week of school and maintained throughout the school year. Please cover all paperback books with clear contact paper and cover all hardback books with removable book covers. If a student loses or damages a textbook, he or she will be charged the cost of replacing the book. MVCS offers quality, Christ-centered curriculum. Christian textbooks are used in almost all areas of study whenever possible. Each teacher is required to use methods of Biblical integration for all course work. Our academic program is designed for the average to above average student. A Beka, ACSI, and Bob Jones Press supply most textbooks. Other publishers are used (including secular publishers) as required by the curriculum (AP, Honors, etc.), or as deemed advantageous to the student by the faculty and administration. GRADING SCALE In Grades K3, K4, and K5, the following grading scales are used: E = Excellent S = Satisfactory P = Progressing N = Needs Improvement In Grades 1 through 6, the following scale will be used for music, physical education, art, computer, and conduct: E = Excellent S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement U = Unsatisfactory In Grades 1 through 6 for all other courses, and Grades 7 through 12 for all courses, the following scale will be used:
I = Incomplete - make-up work required to establish proper grading; all work must be complete by the end of each six (6) weeks grading period in order to be considered for honor roll For Grades 7 – 12: When a transcript is received from another school that contains a letter grade but no numerical equivalent, the other school will be contacted immediately to establish numerical parameters if possible. If, however, a numerical equivalent cannot be established using the other school’s criteria, the following scale will be utilized for equivalent transfer: A+ will be assigned a numerical value of 100 A will be assigned a numerical value of 95 A- will be assigned a numerical value of 91 B+ will be assigned a numerical value of 89 B will be assigned a numerical value of 85 B- will be assigned a numerical value of 81 C+ will be assigned a numerical value of 79 C will be assigned a numerical value of 77 C- will be assigned a numerical value of 75 D+ will be assigned a numerical value of 73 D will be assigned a numerical value of 72 D- will be assigned a numerical value of 70 F will be assigned a numerical value of 69 MVCS offers two (2) diploma programs: Standard Diploma and Honors (College Preparatory) Diploma. The following courses of studies and the total number of units to graduate are listed by subject and units earned: STANDARD DIPLOMA HONORS (COLLEGE PREPARATORY) DIPLOMA 4 units of English 4 units of English 3 units of Mathematics 4 units of Mathematics, including: 3 units of Science 1 unit of Algebra 1 3 units of Social Studies, including: 3 units of Advanced Math above Algebra ½ unit U.S Government 3 units of Science, chosen from ½ unit Economics 1 unit of Physical Science 1 unit World History 1 unit of Biology 1 unit U.S. History 1 unit of Chemistry 1 unit of Health/Personal Fitness 1 unit of Physics 1 unit of Computer/Keyboarding 3 units of Social Studies, including: 4 units of Bible (1 for each year in attendance at MVCS) ½ unit of U.S. Government 3 Elective units ½ unit of Economics 1 unit of World History 1 unit of U.S. History 1 unit of Health/Personal Fitness 1 unit of Computer/Keyboarding 2 units of a Foreign Language (both must be in the same language) 4 units of Bible (1 for each year in attendance at MVCS) 3 Elective units _____________________________________________________________________________________ TOTAL REQUIRED UNITS: 22 TOTAL REQUIRED UNITS: 25 HELP CLASS Help classes are offered at no extra charge for students having trouble in a particular subject. Parents/guardians will be contacted if it is necessary for a student to attend help class. Should you desire help class for your child, you should contact your child’s teacher. Help classes are scheduled by the classroom teacher and are offered Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday from 3:15 - 3:45 p.m for elementary students and 3:30 – 4:00 PM for Jr. High/High School students. Tutoring is also available through student members of the National Honor Society (NHS) and the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). This will be set up through the NHS/NJHS faculty sponsor. HIGH SCHOOL COURSE CREDIT FOR OFF-CAMPUS COURSES Students are not permitted to take a course for high school credit if that course is currently offered as part of the regular curriculum at MVCS. If a student desires to take a course for high school credit that is not currently offered at MVCS, the following conditions must be adhered to: *Written administrative approval must be obtained prior to the start of the course. *The course must be outside of regular class time: i.e., the student will not be allowed to enter school late or be dismissed early to attend the class. *All costs involved in the course will be at the student's expense. The following exception is allowed: a summer school math course will be permitted for a student desiring to advance toward an AP math track. The administration of MVCS reserves the right to disallow any course credits transferred from another school. In addition, the following stipulations may apply to any and all credits (Carnegie Units) transferred to MVCS and placed on an official MVCS high school transcript (whether at the time of initial entry or any time during the student's career): *Course competency exams may be required. *Validation of course content, which may include lists of textbooks, resource books, daily grade results, and copies of tests. *Standardized achievement test results. Students in Mt. Vernon Christian School will normally have homework. We believe it is an integral part of the school program, which will aid students in advancing their studies. Students are expected to complete the homework assigned. Parents/guardians are expected to monitor their child’s homework activity. Homework is given for several purposes: *For drill - to master material essential to the educational process; *For remedial activity - to strengthen various academic weaknesses; and *For projects - book reports, special research assignments that expand academic experience. HOMEWORK POLICIES: In order to encourage local church attendance on Wednesday nights, there will be no homework assigned on these nights. Wednesday night will not be considered a homework night for multi-night assignments. Due to various other special events at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, there may be other nights designated for no homework assignments. STUDYING FOR A TEST AS WELL AS ALL PROJECTS AND SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS WILL NOT BE INCLUDED IN THE HOMEWORK TIME ALLOTMENT. Tests may be given on Thursday. Teachers must announce all tests, plus what will be covered on that test, one week in advance. HOMEWORK TIME ALLOTMENT: These times reflect how long it will take the average student to complete his homework: · Kindergarten No homework except some reading to parents/guardians · 1st - 3rd 30 minutes per night · 4th - 6th 1 hour per night · 7th - 8th 1.5 hours per night · 9th - 12th 2+ hours per night (does not apply to Honors classes) In high school, teachers are to give no more than 20 minutes of homework per subject and may not give that amount excessively. Weekends are considered one night. HONOR ROLL AND AWARDS As the Bible indicates, “. . . And the laborer is worthy of his reward” 1 Timothy 5:18, students are to be recognized for their “labor” and accomplishments. Awards are given at the end of the school year. The following categories will be recognized school-wide: Headmaster’s Honor Roll - for students with all A’s (in every subject, in every grading period) Presidential Academic Achievement – for one boy and one girl student in each class who exhibit the most improvement over the course of the year in academic classwork and endeavors. Presidential Academic Excellence – for students who exhibit a consistently excellent academic record in ALL classwork. Servant’s Heart Award – for one boy and one girl student in each class who exhibits sacrificial giving and helping. Christian Character Award - for one student in each class who exhibits the Christian characteristics of honesty, respect, obedience, kindness, love, and understanding. Student of the Year Award – for one student in each class that has a high GPA, always participates in school activities, and demonstrates spiritual leadership as well as good citizenship. Perfect Attendance Award- for students who were present every day during the school year.
Subject awards will also be awarded by teachers at each grade level.
NILD (National Institute for Learning Disabilities) Mt. Vernon Christian School is a member of NILD, the National Institute of Learning Disabilities. This organization provides training and support for one facet of our school’s Special Education Program. MVCS will make every effort to employ certified NILD therapists who provide educational therapy to students having any learning challenges. Admission to this program is through a meeting with the therapist and/or MVCS Special Education Director. Acceptance to the program is discussed at this meeting, as well as necessary evaluation and testing of the student. The completion and submission of an FFNA (financial aid) form is required before admission can be finalized. The NILD Director and/or therapists is/are also required to approve any accommodations in the academic program for any MVCS student. ROGRESS REPORTS A Progress Report will be sent out approximately 3 weeks into each grading period. These reports are to serve as an indicator of the progress or difficulty being experienced by your child. Parents/guardians are urged to confer with the teacher frequently to discuss any questions or concerns. All students who are admitted to the school are placed on a mandatory probation period of not less than six weeks. During the probationary period, academic and behavioral progress will be assessed and evaluated. At the discretion of the Headmaster, this probation period can be extended indefinitely if there are concerns over the student’s potential for academic success or any behavioral concerns. The Headmaster may also determine, after or during the probation period, that the student will not be successful at MVCS, either academically, behaviorally, or both. Should this be the case, the parents will be asked to withdraw the student. Should sufficient cause arise, currently enrolled students may also be placed on a mandatory six-week probationary period. PROMOTION AND RETENTION Teachers have the responsibility to personally monitor the progress of each child under their care, and to encourage, with individual time and effort, successful achievement of standards and objectives. A part of this responsibility involves the integrity necessary to retain a child in his current grade level until mastery of skills is accomplished. The following criteria will guide teachers in determining the need to retain a student at his current grade level until mastery of certain subjects or skills has been achieved: First and Second Grades: Unsatisfactory progress in reading and/or mathematics, U’s or failure to complete minimum levels. Failure is not mandatory if improvement is shown later in the year. Third through Eighth Grades: Failure in two of the following major subject areas: Bible, mathematics, history, language, science, and reading. Unsatisfactory progress (or below grade level) in the development of reading skills may be considered as failure of a major subject. Failure is not mandatory if significant improvement is achieved during the last three six-week grading periods. Any major course (Bible, mathematics, history, language, science, and reading) that is failed must be successfully made up during the summer through a method approved by an Administrator. If two or more major courses are failed and not successfully made up during the summer, the entire grade may need to be repeated. Ninth through Twelfth Grades: Once a student enters the ninth grade at MVCS, promotion to the next grade will be a result of successfully completing a required number of course credits to obtain the next grade status. In order to be classified a Freshman (ninth grade), a student must successfully pass the eighth grade program of studies. In order to be classified a Sophomore (tenth grade), a student must have accumulated six (6) graduation credits. In order to be classified a Junior (eleventh grade), a student must have accumulated twelve (12) graduation credits. In order to be classified a Senior (twelfth grade), a student must have accumulated eighteen (18) graduation credits. Any course required for graduation that is failed must be made up by a method approved by the Headmaster, or it must be repeated to gain credit. Summer school and/or independent studies may substitute for courses required for a current student. All costs incurred in repeating a course are the responsibility of the parents/guardians. Pre-School, Kindergarten, and Elementary (Grades 1-6) Report cards are distributed on the Tuesday following the end of each six-week term. High School (Grades 7-12) report cards are mailed home to parents on the Wednesday following the end of each six-week term. The school operates on a ten-month basis divided into six terms of six weeks each. Dependent upon availability of resources, the Administration of MVCS will determine the feasibility of a summer school program on a yearly basis. Summer school programs will normally run for a 6 week period, carry a separate tuition cost set by the Administration, and will be an intensive program of studies designed to assist families in meeting promotion or graduation requirements. TRANSCRIPTS OF HIGH SCHOOL WORK COMPLETED Transcripts may be ordered through the main office only. Official transcripts are not given to parents, but are mailed directly to the requesting institution. Parents may request and receive an unofficial transcript at any time once their student has completed the ninth (9th) grade course of study. MVCS uses a weighted grading system to award quality points (QP) for work successfully completed. The following quality points will be assigned to each complete, full-year final grade:
STANDARD GRADING SCALE (most courses) HONORS GRADING SCALE (Honors courses only) A+ = 4.3 quality points A+ = 5 quality points A, A- = 4.0 quality points A, A- = 4.6 quality points B+ = 3.3 quality points B+ = 4.0 quality points B, B- = 3.0 quality points B, B- = 3.6 quality points C+ = 2.3 quality points C+ = 3.0 quality points C, C- = 2.0 quality points C, C- = 2.6 quality points D+ = 1.3 quality points D+ = 2.0 quality points D, D- = 1.0 quality points D, D- = 1.6 quality points F = 0 quality points F = 0 quality points The greatest ability is dependability. Being on time is very important. Classes begin promptly at 8:15 a.m. each morning for both elementary and secondary students. A student who is NOT seated in his assigned desk by 8:15 a.m. is tardy, and must obtain a pass from the appropriate office to enter class. Three unexcused tardies in a grading period will equal one unexcused absence. Acceptable excuses for tardies are: illness of the student or parent or special reasons to be evaluated by the administration. Traffic is not an acceptable excuse. Secondary students are given four (4) minutes between classes during the day. In all periods, a student is considered tardy if he is NOT seated in his assigned desk when the bell rings. Three (3) tardies in a particular class in a grading period will result in disciplinary action. Any secondary student who is more than 10 minutes late to any class will be marked absent for that class period unless a properly-signed note from the office and/or teacher is provided. Regular and punctual attendance is necessary if students are to progress in their education. We encourage perfect attendance and give recognition to those who achieve this goal. All missed tests and assigned work must still be made up as defined in a later section. For elementary and secondary school students, a maximum of twenty (20) absences per year will be allowed. Students who exceed the absence limit may be required to repeat the grade level in which they are enrolled. Any secondary student who misses more than fifteen (15) days during any one semester may be subject to failure of the classes missed. A written excuse from a doctor may be required for illness that lasts more than 4 consecutive days. Acceptable excuses for absences are: 1. Illness of student 2. Illness or death in student’s immediate family 3. Participation in approved school activities 4. Special reasons to be evaluated by the administration It is requested that all dental and medical appointments be scheduled so they do not conflict with school attendance. If this is not possible, a note signed by the doctor or dentist may be required to excuse the absence. ELEMENTARY: When the student returns to the classroom after an absence, he must bring a note stating the date of the absence and the reason. (This does not apply to students in K3 or K4). The note must be signed by a parent and given to the child’s teacher. Parents/guardians wishing to pick up books or class work for their child who is absent must call the elementary school office (770-474-1313) by 9:00 a.m. for homework requests. They should plan to pick up that work after school. Teachers have been instructed not to allow parents/guardians to interrupt a class by gathering this material during class time. SECONDARY: School policy is to notify parents/guardians when any 7th – 12th grade student does not arrive at school on any given school day. Therefore, it would be extremely helpful if the parent would call the secondary office (770-474-1313) to let the school know that the student will be absent and to state the reason for the absence. This call must be made by 9:30 a.m. (You may call before the office opens at 7:30 a.m. and leave a message on the answering machine—please remember to state your name, your child’s name, and the reason for the absence). If a secretary has not heard from you by 9:30 a.m., she will call you at work or at home. If we are unable to contact you, a written excuse must be submitted upon the student’s return to school. This note must be signed by the parent or guardian and must state the reason for the absence as well as the date(s). It will not be necessary to call and send in a note. When the student returns to school, he should report to the school office for an admission slip before going to homeroom. If the reason for the absence has not been verified, and the student does not bring in a written excuse from the parent after two school days, the absence will be considered unexcused. Schoolwork cannot be made up for unexcused absences. Parents/guardians wishing to pick up books or class work for their child who is absent must call the school office with a homework request by 9:00 a.m. and plan to pick up that work after school. Teachers have been instructed not to allow parents/guardians to interrupt a class by gathering this material during class time. Parents/guardians needing to pick up a child early must go to the appropriate school office to sign their child out. Elementary students should give their teacher a note first thing in the morning, stating what time they will be leaving. The secondary student must bring a note that is signed by the parent to the school office before going to homeroom. An early dismissal slip will be issued, and the secondary student should present the dismissal slip to the teacher at the beginning of the class that he/she will be leaving early. The parent must sign the student out at the office before the student can leave the school premises. The purpose for a pre-arranged absence is two-fold: to let the school know in advance that your student will be absent for 1 or more days for a special trip or event; and also to give your child an opportunity to get assignments ahead of time in order to work on them as time permits. Students desiring pre-arranged absences must present a note (to the appropriate school office) written by a parent or guardian stating the dates and reason for the absence. This must be done two or more school days before the absence. An administrator will determine whether the absence is excused or unexcused. The secondary student will receive a pre-arranged absence form that must be initialed by all the student’s teachers who will list all pertinent comments and assignments concerning the absence. School work for both elementary and secondary students will be credited only if completed and turned in according to the time allotted for make-up work (listed below). Parents/guardians are responsible for insuring that schoolwork is completed. Please remember that school experiences, classroom discussions, and programs once missed, can never be completely recovered or made up. A student is allowed to make up his or her work when he or she has been absent (and the absence is excused). The student will be allowed the same number of days that he or she was absent, plus one, to make up the work that has been missed. Any work assigned before the absence occurs is due within one day of returning to school. If any absence is unexcused, a "zero" will be given for any assignment that is missed. All elementary students should carry a hall pass when outside of the classroom without direct teacher supervision. Any student leaving a classroom before the period ends is required to have a hall pass. It must be signed, timed and dated by the teacher who issued the pass. If the student is not returning to that class, the pass must be turned over to the teacher at the final destination or to the school office upon leaving the school premises. Any student in the hall during regular class hours without permission from a teacher will receive disciplinary action (see discipline section). MVCS will generally follow the weather-related closing, delayed start policy, and early dismissal policy of Henry County Public Schools. We will also announce any weather-related events on two TV stations (WSB, FOX), as well as local Christian radio stations WVFJ (93.3 FM), 104.7 FISH, and WSB 750 AM. It will also be announced on our website — http://www.mvcs.us COMMUNICABLE DISEASE POLICY Mt. Vernon Christian School desires to maintain a healthy school environment by instituting controls designed to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. The term "communicable disease" shall mean an illness, which arises as a result of a specific infectious agent that may be, transmitted either directly or indirectly by a susceptible host or infected person or animal to other persons. A teacher or administration official that has reason to suspect that a student or employee has a communicable disease shall immediately notify the school administrator. The reportable diseases include the following: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Mumps Aids Related Complex (ARC) Paralytic Shellfish poisoning Amebiasis Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Animal Bite of a potentially rabid animal Pesticide poisoning Anthrax Plague Botulism Poliomyelitis Brucellosis (Cattle Disease) Psittacosis (Parrot Fever) Campylobacteriosis (Type of food poisoning) Rabies Chancroid (Genital) Relapsing Fever Cholera Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) Rubella Rickettsia (including congenital) Dengue Fever Salmonellosis (Food Poisoning) Diphtheria Scarlet Fever Encephalitis Schistosomiasis (Snail Fever) Fifths Disease (Dementia) Shigellosis (Bowel Infection) Giardiasis (acute) Smallpox Gonorrhea Streptococcus (Strep Throat) Granuloma Inguinale (Genital) Syphilis Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy) Tetanus Head Lice Toxoplasmosis (acute) Hemorrhagic Fevers Trichinosis Hepatitis Tuberculosis Histoplasmosis (Fungal Infection-Acute) Tularemia (Rabbit Fever, Deer Fly Fever) Human Immunodeficiency Virus Varicella (Chicken Pox) Legionnaires’ Disease Vibrio Cholerae Infections Leptospirosis (Leprosy) Yellow Fever Lymphogranuloma Malaria Vibrio Impetigo Measles (rubeola) Meningitis Meningococcal Disease Any student or employee with a communicable disease for which immunization is required by law or is available, shall be temporarily excluded from school while ill and during recognized periods of communicability. Students and employees with a communicable disease for which immunization is not available shall be excluded from school while ill. If the nature of the disease and circumstances warrant, Mt. Vernon Christian School may require an independent physician's examination of the student or employee to verify the diagnosis of communicable disease. Mt. Vernon Christian School administration reserves the right to make all final decisions necessary to enforce its communicable disease policy and to take all necessary action to control the spread of communicable diseases within the school. BEHAVIOR REFERRAL SYSTEM (Grades 1-12) Generally, Behavior Referrals will be sent home via mail on the day of issue. The referrals are for informational purposes only and need not be signed and returned to the school. Behavior-related questions should be directed to the appropriate classroom teacher. The philosophy a man holds concerning the nature of man will greatly determine the philosophy he holds concerning the discipline of man. Jeremiah the prophet recorded God's attitude toward His creation when he said in Jeremiah 17:9, "The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked." God has set the example for a parent. He loves us too much to allow us to do something that will hurt us. That is responsible love. With this motive, we seek to fairly and firmly discipline our students to enable them to obey man whom they can see, that they may learn to obey God whom they cannot see. Parents/guardians are asked to take all questions concerning disciplinary matters to the teacher(s) directly involved first, then to the administration. This procedure will help build proper communication and avoid hindering vital relationships necessary for your child's training. This is the "Matthew 18 principle." We ask the full cooperation of each parent in the disciplining of your child. As a Christian school, we must provide an environment for the spiritual growth and development of our young people. We believe that Christian students should avoid practices which cause the loss of sensitivity to the spiritual well being (Romans 12:1, 2). This sense of the need for spiritual well being led Mt. Vernon Christian School to adopt its standards for students while they are at school, at home, or elsewhere. The selection of the infractions mentioned may appear arbitrary to some; but while not condemning others who see differently, Mt. Vernon Christian School believes that the infractions named on the following pages are undesirable types of conduct and are detrimental to the standards established. Students found to be out of harmony with the Mt. Vernon Christian School ideals of work and life may be asked to withdraw whenever the general welfare of the school demands it, even though there may not be a specific breach of conduct. In this atmosphere of definite and positive Christian standards of conduct, good scholastic planning, and genuine personal interest between faculty and student, there is a fine opportunity for development of strong Christian character. As a Christian school, we reserve the privilege of setting and maintaining our own standards for students’ conduct, dress, cleanliness and scholarship. The school reserves the right to refuse admittance to anyone it so chooses, and to suspend, expel or ask a parent to withdraw any student who violates the standards set down in this handbook, or other rules of conduct as defined by the administration. Proper Christian educational and moral principles can only be obtained through a well-disciplined program. The cooperation of parents/guardians and students is essential. DISCIPLINE CATEGORIES AND CONSEQUENCES FOR GRADES 7 - 12 The school and the home must be in agreement in disciplinary outlook. Only a philosophy based on God's Word is acceptable. The Administration and/or teachers may set up conferences with parents/guardians concerning discipline or academic problems if necessary. Parents/guardians and students should realize that in determining the proper action for any offense, the seriousness of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense must be taken into consideration. Discipline offenses have been divided into four categories. The definition of these offenses, the communication process regarding the offenses, and the consequences for the offenses are listed as follows: Definition of Class D Offenses (3 class D offenses per semester = 1 detention & $10.00 charge to parents) · Dress code violations during school hours, exam days, or any school activities · 3 unexcused tardies per quarter · Running in buildings · Locker offense - unlocked, no lock, messy · Throwing trash or paper on campus · Chewing gum, or eating or drinking in inappropriate places on campus · Disrupting class · Failure to obey when warned on minor issues · Unprepared for class · No parking permit · Minor offenses determined to be detrimental to the nature of a Christian school Consequences for Class D Offenses Three Class D offenses per semester equal one detention. Class D offenses accumulate during each semester and are wiped clean at the start of the next semester. Communication Process for Discipline for Class D Offense Class D offenses receive a written warning called a Behavior Referral. One copy of the Behavior Referral is given to the student to take home to the parents/guardians (to be signed and returned the next school day), one copy remains with the teacher, and a copy is filed with the High School Principal's office. When 3 Class D offenses occur, a detention is assigned and an Incident Report will be given to the student to take home to the parents. The Incident Report will list an accumulation of referrals and/or the detention information. This report will be sent home on Wednesday and must be signed and returned to the school office by Friday. Definition of Class C Offenses (1 class C offense = 1-3 detentions & $10.00 per detention charge to parents) · Leaving campus without permission · Inappropriate material in lockers · Nine unexcused tardies in one semester · Actions determined to be rebellious in nature · Being disrespectful to faculty, staff, or other adults on campus · Use of profane, abusive, or crude language · Use of school equipment without staff permission · Reckless driving (may result in a suspension and revocation of driving privileges) · Skipping any class during a school day · Returning late from off-campus lunch · Failure to show up for detention · Actions determined to merit detention assignments Consequences for Class C Offenses Class C offenses are detention offenses. An accumulation of any three (3) Class D offenses will result in a Class C offense. The Headmaster will assign detentions. Detention assignments will be given to the student on Wednesday noted at the bottom of the Incident Report. The parent-signed Incident Report must be returned to the school office by Friday. Any student not following the guidelines of detention (not showing up, not returning the parent-signed form, breaking the specific rules of detention, etc.) will be subject to further assigned days and possibly a suspension. Class C offenses accumulate during each semester and are wiped clean at the end of each semester. Communication Process for Class C Offenses An Incident Report that lists any offenses from the previous week will be sent home on Wednesdays. The Incident Report will list the date of the assigned detention and have a place for the parent signature. The Incident Report with the detention notice must be signed and returned to the school office by Friday. Definition of Class B Offenses (suspension of 1 – 3 days; possible expulsion) · Verbal harassment or inappropriate conduct toward another person · Being in unauthorized areas of the school or church campus · Being involved in or causing others to be involved in verbal and/or physical abuse of others · Physical contact between male/female students · Actions or attitudes which are spiritually detrimental to the nature of a Christian school · Stealing · Vandalism (plus restitution of all damages) · Use/possession of tobacco, alcohol, or drug paraphernalia · Sexual harassment, verbal or physical · Skipping school · Habitual non-conformity to school rules · Pornography or other sexually-related materials · Dishonesty/Lying/Deliberate Deception · Cheating - includes during tests/quizzes; plagiarism of another's work; copying homework; sharing answers, etc. · Reckless driving – (2nd offense may result in a suspension and revocation of driving privileges) · Forging a parent signature on any school form · Actions determined to merit a suspension Consequences for Class B Offenses An accumulation of three (3) Class C offenses will result in a Class B offense. When a student commits his third Class C offense or commits a Class B offense, there will be a conference with the parents/guardians, student, and the Administration. This may result in an In-School Suspension (ISS). Disciplinary probation is automatically invoked when a suspension occurs. The suspension will be given for 1-3 school days. Class B offenses accumulate throughout the year. In-School Suspension will be held on campus. This will consist of the student being monitored in a location away from his/her peers for the entire school day. All assigned work will be completed during ISS. Please note: Although all work may receive zeroes, the work that is assigned during an ISS is to assure that a student does not fall behind in class work. This includes homework, quizzes, and tests. Out-of-School Suspension will not allow the student to attend school. Any homework, tests or quizzes due during an OSS may be an automatic zero. Although all work may receive zeroes, the work that is assigned during an OSS is to assure that a student does not fall behind in their class work. This includes homework, quizzes, and tests. Disciplinary Probation will result from suspension, violation of Class B offenses, or any actions the Administration deems warranted. Disciplinary probation will last for an assigned amount of time set by the Administration (no longer than 9 weeks or 1½ grading periods ). Students on probation will be closely monitored, and specific changes in behavior are expected. Probation can be invoked with or without the consent of the parents/guardians. Any Class B offense committed during probation will be a cause for a recommendation for expulsion. At any time during the probation, if the Administration determines that necessary behavior changes have not occurred, a recommendation for expulsion may be given. Disciplinary probation may be assigned for any new students with previously disciplinary problems. Disciplinary probation may be assigned as a condition of enrollment or re-enrollment. Any student with Class B offenses will be re-evaluated prior to re-admittance the following year. Communication Process for Class B offenses A suspension conference is held among the Administration, parents/guardians, and the student. Definition of Class A Offenses (a class A offense results in immediate suspension pending expulsion) · Any violation which transcends the scope of class B, C, or D offenses · Serious violations of the law on or off campus · Blatant immorality · Any action by a student or parent/guardian which seriously interferes with the school's ability to accomplish its spiritual and/or educational purpose · Pregnancy or responsibility for a pregnancy · Abortion or responsibility for an abortion · Any sexual activity, at school or at home · Actions determined to merit expulsion, including possession of weapons or any controlled substance. (immediate call to appropriate authorities as necessary)—see ATOD policy Consequences for Class A Offenses Class A offenses mean automatic expulsion and possible notification of legal authorities. Any senior student will also lose the privilege of participating in graduation exercises. Expulsion may result from a combination of Class B offenses. Any student expelled from Mt. Vernon for disciplinary reasons will not be allowed to apply for re-enrollment until the beginning of a semester following one full year after the date of expulsion. The student must show evidence of repentance in order to be considered for re-admittance. The student and parents/guardians must be interviewed by the Administration and go through the admissions process as a new student. The administration will make recommendations concerning re-enrollment. Communication Process for Class A Offenses An expulsion conference is held among the Administration, parents/guardians, and the student. If illegal activities are involved, the Administration or authorities may detain the student. DETENTIONS Parents/guardians will be notified of detention assignments on the Incident Report, which is sent home on Wednesday and required to be signed by a parent and returned to the High School office by Friday. Detentions are assigned one week in advance and are held on Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. A detention roster is posted every week with the room location and monitor's name given. Students are to come prepared with work to complete. Participation in sports or any other school program is NOT an excuse to miss a detention assignment. There is a $10.00 charge per detention to the account of the student’s family. Mitigating Circumstances
Occasionally, mitigating circumstances may influence a disciplinary decision. Factors worthy of consideration include, but are not limited to, prior record, intent, provocation, and attitude.
The administration reserves the right to make decisions regarding discipline in situations that are not covered in this handbook. REWARDS Exam exemptions for semester and final exams: The guidelines for exemptions are as follows: · The student must have at least a 93 average for the semester in the specific course. · The student must have no more than two “N’s” and no “U’s” for the previous quarter. · The student must have an overall average of 80 or higher for the semester. · The student must not have any detentions for the semester. · The student must not have more than 10 excused or 1 unexcused absences for the semester.
Exams count for 25% of the grade with each six weeks counting as 25% of the grade for the semester. Off-Campus Lunch and Senior Off-Campus Lunch Students in grade 12 will have an opportunity to have an off-campus lunch following the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grading periods. This is a great time for parents/guardians to spend lunch with their students. The school will set the lunch dates, and the students will have 90 minutes to eat lunch off-campus. Guidelines for Off-Campus Lunch are as follows:
There are two basic rules for classes in our school: 1. A student may not talk without permission. 2. A student may not leave his desk without permission. MUSIC POLICY The purpose of Mt. Vernon Christian School is to give direction to our young people not only academically, but also spiritually. Any style of music that promotes an immoral lifestyle unbecoming a Christian will not be permitted. Scriptural principles teach that any involvement in this type of music is not conducive to drawing a person into a closer walk with Jesus Christ. It is, therefore, not permitted on the school grounds (which includes the parking lot and school vehicles), or during school activities "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." (I Corinthians 10:31) Parents/guardians can support the school in this policy by using the principle of replacement, which is substituting wholesome, uplifting music, such as contemporary Christian music and gospel music. Christian radio stations are good sources of wholesome, uplifting music. DRESS CODE SUBJECT TO UNIFORM POLICY Mt. Vernon Christian School dress standards are based on Biblical principles and on the concept of appropriateness. Principles in God’s Word clearly apply in two areas of Christian dress. The principle of modesty is given to Christians in 1 Timothy 2:9 and should be followed in dress standards. Secondly, Christians should follow the principle of separation from worldliness in dress as taught in II Corinthians 6:17. Certain styles of dress identify the individual with ungodly philosophies in society or groups in the community; therefore, Christians need to be discerning and seek to avoid those associations (I Thessalonians 5:22; I Peter 2:9). Parts of our dress standard have been established because it has been determined that certain styles of clothing, while not wrong, are not appropriate for the primary activity of the school. We believe that the way students dress strongly influences their behavior, self-image, and the effort they put forth in school. With rapid changes in styles and various ideas about what constitutes a “neat” appearance, it is difficult to have a clear policy that specifically covers all situations. We depend upon parents both (1) understanding the philosophy and objectives of the appearance policy, and (2) making choices that meet those objectives. It is wise for parents to ask about suitability for school BEFORE investing in some of the more casual, “fad-type” clothing. Your guide should be, ”Is this garment consistent with a good Christian testimony?”, and “Is this garment consistent with the objective of neat, modest appearance without being too casual?” Dress that is not proper or not suitable for school will be brought to the attention of the student and the parents/guardians for the purpose of instruction and correction. Under certain circumstances, if the student's dress is deemed inappropriate, he/she will not be permitted to attend class. To reinstate the student’s attendance to class, the student will be required to wear appropriate clothing as provided by the school. In some cases, students may be required to return home to change the inappropriate apparel or have appropriate clothing brought from home. While the following guidelines should prove helpful, the administration reserves the right to determine whether student dress and appearance are proper. Our #1 partner in the enforcement of MVCS dress code policies is the home. Parents/guardians, please assure that your child(ren) are in accordance with the dress code policy before they leave the house to come to school. In the event of questionable suitability of appearance for school, the final decision rests with the school. Dress Code for all P.E. Students Elementary students will wear their regular school clothing for P.E. Appropriate clothing for high school Physical Education will be modest length shorts no shorter than the width of a dollar bill above the knee, and T-shirts that are comfortable and suitable for sports activities. This clothing is not permitted in areas other than the gym, playground or athletic fields. Game Day Attire for Student Athletes Athletic team members are required to dress up for game days. Both boys' and girls' teams must dress in chapel attire on game days, or wear the team polo shirts as directed by the Headmaster and Athletic Director. Articles of game attire CANNOT be worn in school during the school day. Specific Dress Code for Special Occasions Banquets, proms, etc., are special occasions. There are varieties of dresses for young ladies that can be found that still reflect Christian morals. All formal attire must be pre-approved by MVCS personnel according to the following guidelines: *Modest sleeveless dresses or tops are acceptable as long as the armholes are modest enough so that undergarments are not visible. Any jacket (sheer or otherwise), shawl, or wrap may not be worn in an attempt to cover a dress code violation. Appropriate undergarments are to be worn.
*Hems of dresses or slits in dresses must not come higher than the top of the knee.
*Dresses cannot be low-cut in front. Use the "two fingers below the collarbone" rule as a guideline. Necklines should not be "blousy" or revealing when leaning over.
*The backs of the dresses must not be lower than the bottom of the shoulder blades.
*Gentlemen may not wear jeans to a banquet and must wear a dress shirt and a tie
*Non-MVCS students are expected to comply with the dress code for special occasions. Any student who escorts a non-MVCS student dressed inappropriately will receive the same consequences. The Administration reserves the right to disallow any Mt. Vernon Christian School or non-MVCS students dressed inappropriately from entering or remaining at the occasion. Regarding our home/school partnership, parent/guardian cooperation and understanding are essential in making these special events just that—"special." By following the above guidelines, the evening can be enjoyed by all those involved. MT. VERNON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2008-2009 DRESS CODE General Information
*This Dress Code applies to students in Grades K3-12, and to all MVCS-sponsored or attended events. [athletic events excepted, unless attire worn by MVCS students at games drastically challenge the MVCS dress code (as determined by the administration)]
*All clothing should be labeled with the student’s name to facilitate the return of lost items.
*Modesty and good taste should guide the student’s choice of apparel at after-school events and games. The school reserves the right to monitor appropriate dress at these events.
*Specific clothing and personal articles displaying the Confederate flag will not be worn at school and at school functions. In keeping with our Christian principles, it is necessary for every student, parent, faculty and staff member to respect the American Flag and the laws governing the use of the flag.
*The following clothing must not be worn to school or school functions on or off campus:
Jewelry with cult/gang emblems Clothing with images of rock/country music personalities Peace signs/emblems Clothing with sexually-suggestive wording or symbols Rock music emblems/images Overalls Camouflage/military attire Black fingernail polish or lipstick Clothing that exposes the mid-section
*Tattoos or facial/body piercing of any kind (except ear-piercing for girls only) is not permitted.
GROOMING · Hairstyles and/or color must not draw undo attention to the individual or interfere in any way with the educational process. · Boys’ hair must not fall over the ear, below the eyes, or over the collar. · Boys must be clean-shaven, and sideburns may not be any longer than the bottom of the ear. · Girls may wear up to two (2) earrings in each ear lobe. Ear cuffs are not permitted. · The following is prohibited at Mt. Vernon Christian School: o Earrings on boys. o Hats, caps, bandanas. o Sunglasses may not be worn before, during, or after class, lunch, etc. o Facial or body piercing. o Visible tattoos. o Any clothing or accessory that the administration deems unsuitable.
MVCS WILL BE ADOPTING UNIFORMS FOR THE 2008-2009 SCHOOL YEAR. THE SPECIFIC POLICY FOR THE DRESS CODE HAS NOT YET BEEN DETERMINED. THE REMAINDER OF THE DRESS CODE POLICY WILL BE ISSUED AS A SEPARATE ADDENDUM AFTER FEBRUARY 2008.
POLICY REGARDING ALCOHOL, TOBACCO AND OTHER DRUGS (ATOD)
Tobacco in any form and alcoholic beverage in any form are not allowed at school or school functions. The following is an outline of the school’s policy concerning tobacco, alcohol, and drugs:
While on school property, at an official school function, or in route to or from a school function in school-provided or parent-provided transportation, a student shall not: · Possess, consume, transmit, store, or be under any degree of influence of alcoholic beverages, including "near beer" and/or tobacco, illegal drugs, narcotics, hallucinogens, amphetamines, barbiturates, or marijuana, or any other substance listed under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act. Legal intoxication is not required for violation of this policy. · Possess, transmit, store, buy, sell, or otherwise distribute or possess with intent to sell any drug-related paraphernalia. · Falsely identify a substance to be tobacco, alcohol, or an illegal drug. · Buy, sell, or otherwise distribute or possess with intent to distribute or attempt to buy, sell, or otherwise distribute or possess with intent to distribute tobacco, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, narcotics, hallucinogens, amphetamines, barbiturates, or marijuana, or any other substance listed under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act, or any substance falsely identified as such, or is believed by the purchaser to be tobacco, an alcoholic beverage, or illegal drug, narcotics, hallucinogens, amphetamines, barbiturates, or marijuana, or any other substance listed under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act. · Sniff or be under the influence of inhalants and/or other substances. Possession of these items on campus or at school functions may be cause for immediate suspension and/or expulsion.
Prescription Drugs · Office personnel must approve possession on school property of all prescription medication. Prescription drugs must be in their original container bearing the name of the patient, the name of the physician prescribing the medication, and the name of the pharmacy filling the prescription. Prescribed drugs not found in their original containers may be considered illegal and may subject the student to the penalties of this Policy. In addition, a student shall not sell, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute any prescribed medication on school property.
Stimulants A student shall not consume, possess, sell, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute diet pills, caffeine pills, or other stimulants on school property.
Over-the-Counter Medication · Office personnel must approve possession of all over-the-counter medication on school property. A student is prohibited from selling, distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute any over-the-counter medication. · Student abuse of alcohol or illicit drugs is incompatible with the purposes and objectives of the school, as well as being detrimental to the health and well-being of the student. Such substance abuse will result in a lengthy suspension or expulsion. Should the student be allowed to remain, the school reserves the right to require both random drug testing and appropriate biblically-based counseling by a professional affiliated with or recommended by the school. The school’s discipline procedure may include legal action. · Voluntary disclosure of personal drug abuse will be taken into consideration in discipline; however, it does not guarantee that disciplinary procedures will be mediated. (Voluntary disclosure does not mean coming forward after the administration, faculty, or student council has knowledge of the incident.) · The school reserves the right to question students about suspected drug/alcohol involvement. The administration retains the right to request a parent or guardian’s approval for an immediate urinalysis and/or breath test at the parent or guardian’s expense if a student is reasonably suspected of drug or alcohol abuse. · The school is under legal obligation to report to the police and the district attorney all cases of substance abuse. ATHLETIC / EXTRA – CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The Administration of MVCS considers all MVCS student athletes to be leaders. As such, appropriate attitudes and behavior are necessary at all times. Games and practices are to be faithfully attended. Homework and classroom responsibilities must not be compromised because of athletic responsibilities. The young men and women wearing the uniform of MVCS represent both out Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the school; therefore all athletes are to act with dignity, respect, and honor while participating in the sport, whether in practice or in a game. Academic responsibilities - Any student athlete who receives 4 or more points in a six-week grading period will be subject to athletic probation as well. (See the Athletic Handbook for details). Behavior responsibilities – Any student athlete who receives 2 or more behavior referrals in any six-week grading period while participating in a sport will be subject to both administrative and athletic department disciplinary measures, up to and including removal from the team. ATHLETIC COMPETITION Mt. Vernon Christian School has the intent to offer a full line of athletic competition for students in grades 7 – 12. We are a member of the Georgia Christian Athletic Association (GCAA) and offer the following sports: VARSITY JUNIOR VARSITY Football (Fall) Football (Fall) Basketball (Winter) Basketball (Winter) Baseball (Spring) Baseball (Spring)
VARSITY JUNIOR VARSITY
Cheerleading (Fall, Winter) Cheerleading (Fall, Winter) Volleyball (Fall) Volleyball (Fall) Basketball (Winter) Basketball (Winter) Softball (Spring) BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS WHILE ON SCHOOL VEHICLES Behavioral expectations on the bus or school vehicle during field trips or athletic trips will not vary from those of the classroom. The students’ safety depends largely on the driver’s ability to concentrate on his or her work. The following rules will be strictly enforced: · Students must remain seated except when getting on or off the vehicle. No standing is allowed for any reason when the vehicle is in motion · No body parts (i.e., hands, head, etc.) are to be extended from the vehicle windows. · Nothing is to be thrown from the vehicle windows. · No loud or distracting activities at any time, as decided by the driver. · No gum chewing will be allowed while on the vehicle. · No food or drinks will be allowed while on the vehicle. · No littering or vandalism will be tolerated. · No mixed seating (boy/girl) will be permitted. Students will not be allowed to bring radios, i-Pods, MP3 Players, walkie-talkies, computer games (or other listening devices) on the vehicles. Any item brought to school for sharing or playing at approved times, must be kept put away during the vehicle ride to and from school. Only authorized students will be allowed to ride the vehicle. Upon completion of field trips and athletic events, students are required to remain with the vehicle until it is cleaned. The testimony of MVCS is at stake when our vehicles (with our ministry name on the sides and backs of the vehicles) leave the campus. Students should refrain from making fun of people in other vehicles, being rude, or making gestures that may be considered disrespectful or distasteful. Any student violating these rules will be subject to suspension of vehicle riding privileges. The Headmaster and Transportation Chairman will determine the length of suspension after assessing the situation. Repeat offenders may be permanently expelled from riding any Mt. Vernon Christian School vehicle. Parents/guardians will be notified if any disciplinary action is being considered. Please take time to discuss with your student the importance of vehicle safety and the consequences of improper conduct while on school vehicles. Remember, your student’s safety and health may depend on it! Students participating in trips, whether one day or overnight, will be expected to adhere to all school policies and regulations. Because of the nature of the trips, if a problem arises, it may be necessary for the sponsor, chaperone, or coach to take immediate action depending on the seriousness of the offense, the attitude of the students involved, or the nature of the violation. Field trips are an extension of the curriculum at each grade level. Students from alternate grade levels may not be withdrawn from class to attend a field trip of a sibling. Birthday and other parties need to be scheduled with the child’s teacher. Please schedule far enough in advance to avoid any potential school conflicts. Parents are cautioned about distributing (during school) invitations to parties that are to be held outside of school when all class members are not being invited. The teacher may be asked to discretely distribute invitations at the end of the day. Supply lists will be distributed by individual teachers during Open House and/or the first week of school. Please use discretion when purchasing school supplies. Mt. Vernon Christian School will not permit school supplies that have questionable themes such as rock music, TV stars, demonic activity, and similar artwork. Mt. Vernon Christian School reserves the right to make final determinations in this area.
ALL STUDENTS WILL NEED SOMETHING WITH WHICH TO COVER THEIR BOOKS. ALL HARDBACK BOOKS SHOULD BE COVERED WITH A REMOVABLE COVER (No contact paper, please!). ALL SOFTCOVER BOOKS SHOULD BE COVERED WITH CLEAR CONTACT PAPER. PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES It is clear from Scripture that the responsibility for the education of children falls on the parents, in particular the father. In an attempt to assist parents with this responsibility, Mt. Vernon Christian School partners with the parents for the success of their children. The administration of MVCS assumes the following about our parent partners: 1. Parents will demonstrate a positive and supportive attitude toward their students’ education by showing interest in their assignments and school work. In addition, parents will become active partners in assuring that all assignments are completed in a timely fashion and submitted on time. 2. Parents will become familiar with the school faculty and personnel and will actively support the school by attending parent/teacher conferences and any school/parent functions. 3. Parents will keep school personnel informed with any information regarding current address, work and home phone numbers, emergency contact information, custodial information as necessary, email addresses, etc. Parents will assume the responsibility of updating the school office as changes occur. 4. Parents will read the contents of this handbook and will discuss this information with their student. 5. Parents will assume the responsibility to insure that their student is clean and well-groomed and is dressed neatly and appropriately according to the established dress code of Mt. Vernon Christian School. 6. Parents will keep their student at home when there is knowledge of an illness or contagious disease. In addition, parents will have all proper immunizations as required by the Georgia statutes and school policy. 7. Parents will insure that their student arrives at school on time each day. In addition, parents will be responsible to see that homework is completed and submitted for any days the student was absent. 8. Parents will advise the administration of any condition or circumstance that will affect their student’s ability to learn, attend school on a regular basis, or take part in school activities. Parents also assume the responsibility to see that this information is updated and verified regularly. 9. Parents will teach their student by example to have respect for the authority of Jesus Christ, authority of the law, authority of school officials, and respect for the rights and property of others. 10. Parents will follow Matthew 18 in resolving any problems or difficulties with teachers or school administration by first seeking God’s Wisdom, then approaching the teacher or person directly involved. Parents will understand that going first to the teacher, then to the Principal/Headmaster is correct protocol for resolution. If satisfactory resolution to any concern is not reached after following Matthew 18, the parent may request a hearing before the School Board. Such requests should be submitted in writing via email to schoolboard@mvcs.us. 11. Since MVCS is a CHRISTIAN school and NOT A PRIVATE SCHOOL, families associated with the school will be actively attending and supporting a local church, and their student will be actively involved in that church’s youth program as available.
REQUEST FOR ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION
If medications can be given at home or after school hours, please do so. However, if medication administration is absolutely necessary to be given during school hours, this form must be completed and returned to the school office BEFORE any medication can be administered.
Permission is hereby granted to the Headmaster of Mt. Vernon Christian School or his/her designee to supervise my child in taking the following prescribed medication.
I hereby release and discharge the Mt. Vernon Board of Education and its employees and officials from any and all liability in case of accident, injury, damage, or any other mishap in connection with administering and supervising of taking said medication including any side effects, illness, or other injury which might occur to my child. I hereby release aforementioned officials from any liability because of any injury or damage, which might occur.
I give the above-mentioned personnel permission to contact my child’s health care provider and/or pharmacy to acquire medical information concerning my child’s diagnosis, medication, and other treatment(s) required.
I understand that: • Medications, prescribed and non-prescriptive, must be in the original container. • Parent/Guardian must provide specific instructions (including drugs and related equipment) to the Headmaster and/or his designee. • It will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to inform the school of any changes in pertinent data. New medications, prescribed and non-prescriptive, will not be given unless a new form is completed. • Prescribed and non-prescriptive medication will be taken directly to the office. Students may not have medication in their possession, except with a physician’s written request or a physician’s order on an Asthma Plan. • Students who violate these rules will be in violation of School Board policy and are subject to immediate expulsion. • A daily record shall be kept on each prescribed and non-prescriptive medication administered. This record will include student’s name, date, medication administered, time, and signature of school personnel who supervised.
NAME OF STUDENT BIRTHDATE GRADE TEACHER MEDICATION DATE OF PRESCRIPTION DOSAGE & TIME OF ADMINISTRATION ALLERGIES STOP MEDICATION ON
STATEMENT OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN I hereby give my permission for my child to receive medication at school as prescribed by my child’s physician. SIGNATURE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN DATE HOME PHONE WORK PHONE BEEPER/PAGER
***************************************** To be completed by Physician for long-term medications (more than two weeks): CONDITION/ILLNESS REQUIRING MEDICATION POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF MEDICATION OTHER MEDICATION STUDENT IS TAKING PHYSICIAN’S NAME PHYSICIAN’S PHONE PHYSICIAN’S SIGNATURE DATE MEDICATIONS TO BE GIVEN AT SCHOOL
To the parent or guardian of:___________________________________________________
To insure the safety of all students at our school, the following guidelines should be followed when medications are to be sent to school.
1. All medications (prescription and non-prescription) must be taken directly to the office for safe storage.
2. All medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, must be brought to the school by the parent or guardian. Parents/guardians must fill out the request for Administration of Medication Form. Medications required for more than one day must be accompanied by an Administration of Medication Request form which can be obtained from the office.
3. All medications must be in the ORIGINAL CHILD-PROOF CONTAINER. Prescription medications must be in the labeled prescription bottle. Medications stored in envelopes, baggies, etc., will not be administered.
4. Administration of prescription and over-the-counter medicine (even for a short period of time) is discouraged. Parents should check with their physician regarding the need for medications to be administered during school hours. Medications prescribed for three times daily often can be given before school, after school, and at bedtime.
If you have any questions about this procedure, please call
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Do you have questions or comments about our web page? Please send email to Ricky White |
This page last updated on September 09, 2008 MVCS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other programs. |
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Accredited by the Georgia Accreditation Commission, Inc. MVCS is a member of
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