A Word From The Principal - Homewood Christian Academy!homewoodchristian.com/Handbooks/ParentStudent Hand… · Web viewWe extend a warm welcome to all our school family! We sincerely

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H O M E W O O DC H R I S T I A N A C A D E M Y

2 0 1 5 - 2 0 16P a r e n t - S t u d e n t H a

n d b o o kNON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY:

Homewood Christian Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and other

school-administered programs.

Revised : 8/6/14

OFFICE HOURSSchool Days: 8:15am—3:45pm, Monday—Friday

Parent/Teacher conference days: 12:00pm—5:30pm In-service Days: Closed

Homewood Christian Academy 20820 S. Western Avenue Olympia Fields, IL

60461P: 708-535-1524F: 708-535-1525

www.homewoodchristian.com

A Word From the PrincipalTable of Contents

4About Homewood Christian Academy 5Statement of Faith 6Code of Conduct 8Pledges 9Admission 10Christian Leadership Training 10Parental Involvement 10Tuition and Monthly Fees 10Past Due Accounts 11Medical Guidelines & Medication Policy 12Attendance & Absences 13Daily Arrival & Departure 14Morning & After Care 15Crisis Response Plan 16Fire & Tornado Drills 16Discipline 17Corporal Punishment 17School-Wide Discipline Policy 18Severe Clause 18Probation, Suspension & Expulsion 19Classroom Rules 21

1st through 4th Grades 5th through 8th Grades

Hallway, Gym & Playground Rules 27Campus Rules 28Parking Lot Traffic Pattern 29Uniform Grooming Code 29Wellness Policy 30Physical Education 31Breakfast and Lunch Procedures 31Lost and Found 31Progress Reports 32Field Trip 33Honor Roll 33Transcripts 34Achievement Testing 34Graduates 34School Closing 35Sports 36Appendix A: Dress Code Appendix B: School Forms

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A Word From The Principal

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to a new school year! I am excited to begin a journey with you in the academic and spiritual de-

velopment of your child. Children excel when parents and teachers work together to support learning and provide

a supportive, caring environment for growth. The HCA staff is highly-trained and committed to providing the best

of Christian educational excellence for all students.

After a busy summer, I am eager to begin collaborating with students, parents, and community members. I

look forward to building upon the strong relationships that we have established during the past school years with

all of HCA’s children and their families. I pray that your child’s school experience will be happy, productive, and

full of engaging and rigorous learning experiences. I believe all children can achieve at high levels and they de-

serve our very best efforts on a daily basis. However, the school cannot accomplish this task alone. We will need

your help and support throughout your child’s educational journey. Together, our high expectations will help

every HCA child reach his/her full potential as a student and as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Your child’s success is

highly dependent upon the relationship that exists between parent, teacher, and child. Ongoing collaboration be-

tween the home and school is essential to both your child’s academic, spiritual and social success. I invite you to

become involved at our school, so together we can demonstrate to your child the value and importance of a suc-

cessful school life. There are many avenues for parents to get involved at Homewood Christian Academy. I’d love

to have you volunteer in our classroom or help at one of the many school functions throughout the school year.

Stop in at any time to find out more about how we can work together to enrich the lives of every student.

Should you have any questions or concerns throughout the school year, please feel free to call

708-535-1524 or stop by our school office to make an appointment to see me. Our doors are always open, and I

welcome your participation and feedback. I am dedicated to making our school a great place to learn through an

ongoing focus on spiritual and academic growth. More than ever before, let’s work together to ensure success for

every member of our family at Homewood Christian Academy.

Let the learning begin!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Rebecca Husbands

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A word from the HCA board of Directors

We extend a warm welcome to all our school family! We sincerely appreciate the sacrifices and dedication

on the part of many who have made Homewood Christian Academy possible. Since 1976, we have endeavored to

present a high-quality Christ-centered education in which all academic disciplines are predicated on the belief that

the universe was created by God for His glory. Our program of learning emphasizes academic excellence with

learning experiences aimed at developing the child's maximum spiritual, intellectual, social, physical and emotional

potential. We operate as a private, non-denominational co-educational Christian school with programs planned for

pre-k through eighth grade.

The purpose in building a private Christian school is to obey the scriptural imperatives of Deuteronomy

6:6- 7a: ―And thou shalt love the Lord they God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently

unto thy children.‖ Proverbs 22:6 commands parents to train up a child in the way he should go. Teaching

is training. Training for life must include training for eternity. A Christian school is an extension of the

Christian home in training young people for time and eternity in a Christian environment. The school staff works

closely with parents to train the whole child. Both students and parents are expected to be faithful and regularly

attend services at a Bi- ble-believing church.

We maintain that attendance at Homewood Christian Academy is a privilege. The goals of this

Christian school are not to reform but to train Christian youth of every ability in the highest principles of

Christian leadership, self-discipline, individual responsibility, personal integrity and good citizenship. All new

students are admitted on an ―observation‖ basis for the first grading period of nine weeks. Students are

observed to determine if proper adjustment has been made. An administrative recommendation will then be

provided to the parent/guardian. Homewood Christian Academy stands without equivocation for the full Gospel

and the highest standards of morality and Christian behavior. Students are expected to act in an orderly

and respectful manner, maintaining Christian/Biblical standards in courtesy, kindness, language, morality, and

honesty. Students must agree to strive toward Christian/Biblical character in dress, conduct and attitude. 1

Timothy 4:12 says, ―Let no man despise thy

youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.‖

This handbook has been prepared to help students, parents and guardians understand both the Biblical and

academic premises that steer our curriculum and guidelines at HCA Families and teachers are urged to help the

students become familiar with the contents of the handbook to promote a seamless and productive learning environ-

ment for all of the students of Homewood Christian Academy.

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Statement of Faith

We believe:

…the Scriptures. The Bible is the inspired Word of God, the product of holy men of old who spoke and wrote as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. We accept the New Covenant (recorded in the New Testament) as our infallible guide in matters pertain- ing to conduct and doctrine (2 Tim. 3:15, 1 Thess. 3:13, 2 Peter 1:21).

…the Godhead. Our God is one, but manifested in three persons – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Phil. 2:6, Matt. 3:16- 17). God the Father is greater than all; the source of the Word (Logos) and the Begetter (John 14:28, John 16:28, John 1:14). Jesus is the Son of God, one with the Father, the flesh-covered Word, the One Begotten, and has existed with the Father from the beginning (John 1:1, John 1:18, John 1:14, John 10:30). The Holy Spirit proceeds forth from both the Father and the Son and is eternal (John 15:26)

…man, his fall and redemption. Man is a created being, made in the likeness and image of God, but through Adam’s transgres- sion and fall, sin came into the world. “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” “As it is written, there is none right- eous, no not one.” Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was manifested to undo the works of the devil and gave His life and shed His blood to redeem and restore man back to God (Rom. 5:12, Rom. 3:23, Rom. 3:9-10, 1 John 3:8, Gal. 3:13-14)

…salvation. Justification by faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ and regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential for the salvation of the lost and sinful person. Salvation is the gift of God to man, separate from works and the law, and is made opera- tive by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, producing words acceptable to God (Eph 2:8). Man’s first step toward salvation is “godly sorrow that worketh repentance.” The new birth is necessary to all men, and when fulfilled produces eternal life (2 Cor. 7:10, 1 John 5:12, John 3:3-5).

…water baptism. Baptism in water is by immersion and is a direct commandment of our Lord, and is for believers only. The ordinance is a symbol of the Christian’s identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Matt. 28:19, Rom. 6:4, Col. 2:12, Acts 8:36-39).

…baptism in the Holy Ghost. The baptism in the Holy Ghost and fire is a gift from God as promised by the Lord Jesus Christ to those who are believers in this dispensation and is received subsequent to the new birth. This experience is accompanied by the ini- tial evidence of speaking in other tongues as the Holy Spirit, Himself, gives utterance (Matt 3:11, John 14:16-17, Acts 1:8, Acts 2:38-39, Acts 19:1-7, Acts 2:4)

…sanctification. The Bible teaches that without holiness no man can see the Lord. We believe in the doctrine of sanctification as a definite, yet progressive work of grace, commencing at the time of regeneration and continuing until the consummation of salvation (Heb. 12:14, 1 Thess. 5:23, 2 Peter 3:18, 2 Cor. 3:18, Phil. 3:12-14, 1 Cor. 1:30).

…divine healing. Healing is for the physical ills of the human body and is wrought by the power of God through the prayer of faith, and by laying on of hands. It is provided for in the atonement of Christ, and it is the privilege of every member of the church today (Mark 16:18, James 5:14-20, 1 Peter 2:24, Matt. 8:17, Isaiah 53:4-5)

…resurrection of the just and the return of our Lord. The angels said, “This same Jesus shall so come in like manner.” His coming is imminent. When He comes, “The dead in Christ shall rise first; then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air.” (Acts 1:11, 1 Thess. 4:16-17). Following the tribulation, He shallreturn to earth, as King of kings, and Lord of lords and together with His Saints, who shall be kings and priests, He shall reign a thou- sand years (Rev. 20:6).

…hell and eternal retribution. The one who physically dies in his sins without Christ is hopelessly and eternally lost in the lake of fire and therefore has no further opportunity of hearing the Gospel or for repentance. The lake of fire is literal. The terms―eternal‖ and ―everlasting‖ used in describing the duration of the punishment of the damned in the lake of fire, carry the same thought and meaning of endless existence as used in noting the duration of joy and ecstasy of the saints in the presence of God (Heb. 9:27, Rev. 19:20, Heb. 6:1-2).

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…communion – the Lord’s supper. We partake of the Lord’s Supper to show the Lord’s death till He comes (2 Cor. 11:23- 31). The bread symbolizes the Lord’s broken body (Is. 53:5, 1 Cor. 11:24). The cup represents the new covenant in His blood, which provides us forgiveness and relationship with God (Heb. 9, 1 Cor. 11:25). We judge ourselves and realize that this is our salvation and receive it (1 Cor 11:28-30) for if we receive it unworthily – without giving it honor as our salvation – we are guilty of the body and blood of the Lord (1 Cor. 11:27).

…laying on of hands. A simple belief that power or anointing or any other necessary quality can be transmitted from one person touching another. Laying on of hands was practiced by the Levitical Priesthood. Jesus practiced it in Mark 10:13-16 as a blessing, and is our grounds for baby dedication instead of baptism. Laying on of hands for healing (Mark 5:22, 23, 41; Mark 5:28-31; Acts 28:8; Acts 19:11-12); laying on of hands to confer office (Acts 6:2-6); laying of hands to receive the Holy Ghost (Acts 8:16-18); laying on hands to believe words spoken, to receive anointing, and to cultivate the anointing (1 Tim. 4:14); laying on of hands for ordi- nation to consecrate and receive the necessary ministry tools (1 Tim. 4:14).

…tithes and offerings. The practice of tithes and offerings as taught in the Holy Scriptures, according to Mal. 3:10; Luke 6:38; 1 Cor. 16:1-2: 2 Cor. 9:6-8.

…the church. The church of the Lord Jesus Christ is a body of believers who assemble to worship, carry forth the Great Commis- sion, and minister as the Holy Ghost leads them. The believers should seek, as the early disciples did, to practice a separated life from the world and to Christ, will not practice or lead a life of sodomy, and to produce standards of conduct that will exalt our Lord and His church. The local church has a right to govern itself under the Lordship of Christ Jesus and where it deems best for the life of the church and testimony of the Lord, may discipline in the Spirit of Love any member who departs from the principles set forth in the articles [of the Constitution of All Nations Community Church] or whose conduct is contrary to the Spirit and practice of the body (2 Cor. 6:17; Eph. 5:11; Gal. 2:20; Col. 3:17; Rom. 12:1-3; Matt. 28:18-20; Eph. 1:22; Eph. 2:19-22; Heb. 12:23; Matt. 18:15-17; 2 Cor. 13:5-8; Rom. 1:18-32; Col. 3:5-17; 1 Cor. 5:7,9-13; 6:1-20).

The foregoing are a few of the basic tenets of our faith at Homewood Christian Academy and are not intended to encom- pass all that we believe. It would be impossible to put into creed form all of the Bible’s precepts, truths and doctrines.

I affirm my unqualified belief in this Statement of Faith of Homewood Christian Academy.

Signature Date

Signature Date

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Code of Conduct

1. I will, at ALL times, obey those that have authority over me for this is right in the sight of God.

2. I will, at ALL times, get permission to speak or leave my seat during classroom academics.

3. I will, at ALL times, remember to leave my desk and working area neat and orderly at the time of dismissal.

4. I will, at ALL times, learn to accept school policies with a positive attitude.

5. I will, at ALL times, refrain from swearing, indecent language, disrespectful body language, gambling, indecent dancing, viewing indecent movies or videos that would be in conflict with our Christian belief, listening or involvement with ungodly music, any association with gangs or gang-related activity, and to refrain from the possession and use of tobacco, alcohol, weapons and drugs.

6. I will, at ALL times, refrain from damaging the physical property of this institution.

7. I will, at ALL times, refrain from any infraction of the state or federal penal code.

8. I will, at ALL times, refrain from all sexual activity and commit myself to Biblical standards of sexual purity.

9. I will, at ALL times, refrain from becoming selfish, irresponsible, defiant, demanding, discourteous, irreverent or destructive with my attitudes toward fellow students, staff or teachers.

10. I will, at ALL times, refrain from the use of profanity, offensive slang, vulgarity, envious rivalry, mockery and inappropriate classroom behavior.

11. I will, at ALL times, refrain from lying, cheating or stealing and will discourage these behaviors among my peers.

12. I will, at ALL times, maintain Christian/ Biblical standards of courtesy, kindness, morality and honesty.

13. I will, at ALL times, abide by these standards throughout my enrollment whether at home, school or elsewhere.

14. I will also be aware that any severe violation, including, but not limited to, the following list will result in immediate expulsion.Any act of violence Gang membership Conviction of a felony Possession of a weaponThreatening the life of a student or staff member Conceiving or fathering a childYour benefits

- It permits mutual respect between you and your teacher.- It allows the love of God to grow in your disciplined life.- It permits a teacher to do the kind of job in the class for which he/she is commissioned.- It encourages you to respect your fellow student and live as a responsible, constructive citizen.

I have read and understand the Code of Conduct for (signature)

Homewood Christian Academy.

Date

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Pledges

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE AMERICAN FLAG

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and

justice for all.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE CHRISTIAN FLAG

I pledge allegiance to the Christian Flag, and to the Savior for Whose kingdom it stands. One Savior, crucified, risen, and coming again, with life and liberty for all

who believe.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE BIBLE

I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s Holy Word. I will make it a lamp unto myfeet and a light unto my path. I will hide its words in my heart, that I might not

sin against God.

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AdmissionHomewood Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students in the academy. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and financial programs, athletic and other school administered programs.

Christian Leadership Training Homewood Christian Academy has not been established just to be ―another Christian school.‖ Though obviously the need for Christian education is great, the need for education that is truly led of the Holy Spirit is greater.

Education is life, and life is found only in Jesus Christ. Therefore, the heart of the academic program must be nothing less than the person of Jesus. Our greatest desire is to help our students know how to live; learn how to live for the Christian means Jesus Christ.

Not only is the curriculum at Homewood Christian Academy thoroughly Christian, but the entire atmosphere shall be one in which we are trusting that the Holy Spirit will be free to lead, guide and direct. The following areas of Christian Leadership Training will be part of the way of life at Homewood Christian Academy.

Bible-centered curriculum materialsBible reading and prayer in daily opening exercise Devotional group discussionsBible story time Weekly chapel servicesSpiritual emphasis weeks Wholesome Christian atmosphere Retreats for Junior High students

Parental Involvement Open House and parent-teacher conferences promote a good understanding between parents or guardians and the faculty/administration of Homewood Christian Academy. Every parent is required to participate in these informative and helpful programs.

Parent conferences with the teacher are scheduled after each quarter. Parents are required to attend the scheduled conference unless other arrangement have been made. If no arrangements have been made within five (5) days, a student may not return to school until the conference has been held. Any correspondence concerning the student must be signed by the PARENTS ONLY and should be returned on the following day. (Homework slips, detention slips, notes for absences or tardiness, field trip permission slips, report cards, etc.)

Parents are encouraged to read to children at home. In other areas of class work, parents should discuss with their child’s teacher their part in helping with their work. Parents are encouraged to glance through their child’s assignments to determine if they are being worked properly. However, parents should remember that the responsibility for doing the work rests on the student. Additionally, we invite parents to volunteer to help with parties, field trips, etc. If you are available, please contact your child’s teacher.

Tuition and Monthly Fees Homewood Christian Academy is dependent upon the tuition of the students and gifts of friends for operating expenses. All contributions are tax-deductible; however, tuition is not tax-deductible. Please check each year with the school office concerning registration, tuition, book and special fees. There are no refunds on testing, registration & book fees, regardless of the time the student has been in attendance. Book fees are due in the summer and cover costs of curriculum, books, and copies.

No tuition refunds are given for the current month, after the first day of classes in that month. No refund of any kind are given if a child is asked to withdraw, is suspended or expelled.

Child Care Assistance is available for families who qualify. In addition to a completed Child Care Assistance application, the full amount of registration and book fees must be paid, along with each monthly payment until payments are

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sent from Child Care Assistance. Under the CCA program, families are responsible for the co-pay amount designated by CCA in addition to any remaining difference after monthly payments are sent from CCA If co-pay is not paid each month, a late fee of $25 will be assessed to the HCA tuition account. Homewood Christian Academy offers four payment options:

CCA-$250/mo for school age-$50/mo for pre-school

10 month Payment Plan-$35 annual administrative fee-Late fee collection policy (exception applies to billing errors or disputes)

Payment premium discounts-Annual pay $4250-$250 discount if paid by August 22nd-NEW! Semester pay $2125-$100 discount each if paid by August 22nd and January 1st- Tri-annual pay $1416.67-$50 discount each if paid by Aug. 22nd, Nov. 10th, and Feb. 11th-Monthly pay $425-$15 discount if paid by electronic draft automatically each month by the 10th

Tuition Cycle and Withdrawals-No tuition refunds are given for tuition. HCA does not prorate tuition. The monthly tuition cycle begins on the 10th and con-

tinues to the 10th of the following month. If a parent withdraws a student at any time during a tuition cycle (i.e. Sept. 10th through Oct. 10th), the parent is responsible for the FULL amount of the monthly payment for the tuition cycle. The amount due will not be prorated or adjusted for days actually attended within the month.

IF PAYMENTS ARE NOT MADE ON THE DUE DATE, A LATE CHARE OF $25.00 WILL BE ASSESSED FOR EACH MONTH TUITION PAYMENT IS LATE AFTER ONE WEEK (FIVE (5) BUSINESS DAYS).

All financial obligations must be cleared by the last day of attendance of the current school year in order for a student’s name to remain on the classroom list for the following school year. Also, the student will not receive his/her report card, records will not be released nor will the student be able to walk in any graduation ceremony. Please note that for any NSF check, regardless of the amount of the check, there will be a $35.00 charge.Past Due Accounts It is necessary for HCA to institute a strong collection policy for past due accounts in order to protect the viability of the school. If a student’s tuition, fees, or morning/after care charges are past due at the end of first, second, or third quarter, that student’s teacher will not be permitted to schedule a conference with the parent of that child. The parent/ teacher conference will not be re-scheduled until the end of the following quarter, as long as the account is current. In addition, that student will not be able to return to school for the next quarter until all monies are paid in full. The parent/teacher conference will not be rescheduled, but the parent can have the report card once the balance is current. If tuition is past due in the fourth quarter, that child will not be able to take achievement tests or final tests. Achievement tests cannot be made up.Finals can be taken once the account is current, but final grades may be delayed. Please do your best to make sure that you keep your payments current to avoid further collection actions, including, but not limited to, reporting delinquencies to credit bureaus and turning over the balance to a collection agency.Medical Guidelines Physical and dental examinations are required by state law of all pupils in public, private or parochial schools. Prior to or upon entrance into K-3, K-4 or K-5 and 6th grades, students must have a medical exam. Prior to or upon entrance into K-5, 2nd and 6th grade, students must have a dental exam. Prior to entrance into K-5, students must have an eye exam and vi- sion screening test. In addition to the physical, dental and eye examinations, every child shall be immunized against measles, tetanus, diphtheria, poliomyelitis, mumps, pertussis (whooping cough) and rubella (German measles). All students must have the proper medical form on file prior to the start of school. If parent(s)/guardian(s) have not complied with the state medical guidelines, student will be dismissed from classes on or after October 14, and will remain so until compliance has been met according to state guidelines. All students must also have a copy of their birth certificate on file. Your coop- eration in these matters will be greatly appreciated.

Note that these guidelines may change as the state issues updates in the required immunizations. Please check with your doctor.

If it is necessary for a student to take medication during the school day, a parent must come to the office and fill out the proper form. No medications will be dispensed without the proper form being signed. The ―Parent/Guardian Request to Dispense Medication‖ form is located in the Appendix.

In instances where a student needs medical attention, the office will call the parent or family doctor. The office will also make every effort to inform the parent when a child is sent to the office for any medical/injury. If a student becomes ill

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during the day, a parent or guardian must pick up the child from school, as he/she will not be allowed to return to the classroom.

Medication Policy The purpose of administering medication in school is to help each student maintain an optimal state of health to enhance his or her education. The medications should be limited to those required during school hours which are necessary to maintain the student in school and those needed in the event of an emergency. The intent of these guidelines is to assure safe administration of medications for those students who require them. ILLINOIS STATE LAW requires ALL medications to be prescribed by a licensed physician, dentist or podiatrist.

IILINOIS STATE LAW also requires that a WRITTEN ORDER for PRESCRIPTION and NON-PRESCRIPTIONmedications MUST be obtained from the child’s licensed prescriber.The Order Includes:

Student’s Name Date of BirthLicensed Prescriber, Signature and DateLicensed Prescriber Phone and Emergency Number(s) Name of Medication

- Dosage- Route of administration- Frequency and time of administration

Diagnosis Requiring MedicationIntended Effect of the Medication/Possible Side Effects Other Medications Student is ReceivingTime Interval for Re-Evaluation Approval for Self-AdministrationApproval for students to carry emergency medication on their person (i.e. inhaler, Epi-Pen)

Medication must be brought to the school in a container, labeled appropriately by the pharmacist or licensed prescriber.

Prescription Medication Shall Display:Student’s Name Prescription NumberMedication Name and Dosage Administration Route or Other Directions Date and RefillLicensed Prescriber’s NamePharmacy Name, Address and Phone Number Name or Initials of Pharmacist

Over the Counter Medication (OTC):OTC (non-prescription) medication shall be brought in with the manufacturer's original label with the ingredients listed and the child’s name affixed to the container.

In addition to the licensed prescriber's order, a written request shall be obtained from the parent(s) or guardian requesting that medication be given during school hours. The request must include the name of the student, the parent(s)’ or guardian’s name and phone number in case of emergency. It is the parent(s)’ or guardian’s responsibility to ensure that the licensed Prescriber’s order, written request and medication are brought to the school.

If a parent(s)/guardian sends the student to school with medication without a written order from the licensed prescriber and without completing the ―Request for School Personnel to Dispense Medication,‖ the school personnel WILL NOT DISPENSE THE MEDICATION TO THE STUDENT! The parent(s)/guardian will then be called to pick up the student or come and dispense the medication themselves.

At the end of the school year or the end of the treatment regime, the student’s parent(s)/guardian will be responsible for removing from the school any unused medication. If the parent(s)/guardian does not pick up the medication by the end of the school year, the school office personnel will dispose of the medication(s) and document that it was discarded.

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Medication must be discarded in the presence of a witness and documentation signed by both parties. For the sake of

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time, the licensed prescriber may fax the written order to the administrator at (708) 535-1525. If you have further questions, please feel free to call the school office at (708) 535-1524.

THIS POLICY WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED. PLEASE ADHERE TO IT SO THAT THE CHILD IS NOT PLACED IN THE POSITION OF NOT RECEIVING THE NEEDED TREATMENT.

AttendanceRegular attendance is absolutely necessary if the student is to achieve success in school. It is not only important for the student’s academic success but also for building proper attitudes toward job responsibility. A student must be in attendance five and one-half (5 1/2) instructional classroom hours to constitute a day of attendance.

A parent or guardian is requested to call the school office as soon as possible in the morning and inform us of the student’s absence. A note must be given to the teacher upon return of the student. The note should contain the student’s name, the date(s) of absence, the reason for the absence, and the parent's signature. The student’s parents are called daily if a student is marked absent, unless the parent has informed the office of said absence. This is done through the school office.

Any student returning from an absence should bring a written note for the absence, even though the parent may have called or the office may have called the parent. A student will be marked tardy after the 8:30 a.m. bell and will have to obtain an excused/unexcused pass from the office stating time of arrival plus reason for tardiness will be noted. Students are not allowed to come into the classroom without a pass from the office.

IF A STUDENT IS ABSENT FOR ANY REASON OTHER THAN A SERIOUS ILLNESS FOR 15 DAYS OR

MORE WITHIN A SEMESTER, THE STUDENT MAY BE EXPELLED. THE STUDENT MAY ALSO BE REPORTED TRUANT TO HIS/HER LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT. THE STUDENT WILL ALSO LOSE

ALL PRIVILEGES, INCLUDING HONOR ROLL AND ALL GRADUATION ACTIVITIES.

AbsencesCompliance with the State of Illinois compulsory attendance law is the responsibility of the parent or guardian and the student. Attending each class session is required. Absences are reported to the school office every day. Absence from school is regarded as an important deterrent to success in school, both in social development and in academic progress.

A. EXCUSED ABSENCES: The student has the RESPONSIBILITY to take the initiative to make up work missed during the absence. The teacher will provide a list of missed work, but it is not the teacher’s responsibility to ensure that the work is done. Excused absences include:

1. Personal illness or other physical disablement2. Illness or death in the student’s family3. Home emergency (fire, flood, etc.)4. Other emergencies dependent on the judgment of the administration

B. APPOINTMENTS: Doctor and dental appointments should be scheduled after school hours or on weekends. When this is not possible, the student should follow the instructions listed.

1. Make every effort to arrive at school as soon as possible if the appointment is early in the day. A note from home or the appointment card (properly signed) should be presented to the school office upon the student’s return with approximate time of arrival.

2. If the appointment is later in the day, the student should bring the appointment card or a note from home and present it to the school office before leaving for the appointment.

3. Students leaving school for such appointments must check out with the classroom teacher and then sign out in the school office.

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4. A student who arrives or leaves school other than the regular time must sign in or sign out with the school office even if the student does have parent not explaining the late arrival or early departure. Student will not be allowed in the classroom without a pass from the school office.

C. PLANNED ABSENCE: Any student requesting three (3) or more days leave from school due to special situations must obtain a PLANNED ABSENCE FORM from the office. This form must be signed by all teachers involved, the administration and the parents. All work that the student misses will be given to the student upon their return to school. In such cases, the school, the teacher or any other staff will not be responsible for the student’s academic achievement.

D. UNEXCUSED ABSENCE: All absences will be unexcused until a note has been received with an explanation. This rule applies to ALL grades (K3-8th).

All students who are absent are required to bring a note to school on the day of their return. The note should contain the student’s name, the date(s) of absence, the reason for the absence and the parent’s signature. If a note has not been returned by the following day, the absence will be unexcused.

When an unexcused absence occurs, the following rules will apply:1. Unexcused absences will be recorded on student’s report card and permanent record.2. Any 5th-8th child will serve a 1 hour detention for each unexcused absence.3. If a student accumulates three unexcused absences in a semester, that student will be

suspended for 1 day of school, and parents must conference with the Principal.4. If unexcused absences continue to accumulate the child will be reported truant to the local

school district and may be expelled from Homewood Christian Academy.

After 3 consecutive absences due to illness, a doctor’s note will be required. Administrative discretion will apply when requiring a doctor’s note with multiple absences.

Daily Arrival/Departure Students who do not eat breakfast (7:45) or attend Morning Care should arrive at school no earlier than 8:15 a.m. The doors will not open until 8:15 a.m. Students will proceed directly to their classroom and are expected to be unpacked and seated to begin class at 8:30 a.m. A student is considered tardy if he/she is not in the classroom at 8:30 a.m. Information is recorded on a daily attendance report and will be kept in the student’s permanent folder.

DISMISSAL: Students must enter and leave using South/ Main school entrance only. Students who are not picked up by 3:10pm will be sent to After Care where charges will apply.

EXCUSED TARDINESS: Severe weather conditions, traffic and road conditions.UNEXCUSED TARDINESS: All other tardiness will be unexcused including, but not limited to, oversleeping, general traffic or ―just running late.‖

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Classes will be dismissed at 3:00 p.m. Parents or car pool drivers (Pre K-1st gr.) must go to each classroom and pick up the student. Students will not be dismissed from the classroom early, simply because he/she may have arrived early. This practice disrupts the classroom procedures. Students will not be dismissed from the classroom until the parent, car pool driver or an adult (16 years or older) listed on their pick up slip picks them up. 2nd-8th grade students will be dismissed to parents from the lobby/ entrance area. Please follow traffic patter and parking lot procedures.

PLEASE DO NOT SEND ANOTHER STUDENT to pick up your child. Also, please do not pick up another parent’s child and then leave them in the building or outside to wait for their parent. If found, that student will be taken to the after care room. If a student is found in the building that has not been picked up from their classroom by 3:10p.m. the student will be taken to the after care room, where charges will apply. Students not signed up for the after care program may only remain after school for a detention or other approved activities.

All students that are sent to the after care room can be picked up at the designated room. No student will be allowed to leave the room on their own. A parent or someone on the student’s pick up slip will be required to come into the building and sign out the student before the student will be released.

Morning & After Care Morning and after-school care is available from 6:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Bills are sent out bi-weekly detailing the previous week’s charges. Payment for each week is due the following week. Please visit the school office for a current fee schedule for morning and after care rates.

Morning and After Care Locations and Procedures

MC and AC will be located in Mr. Culbertson’s classroom (room near school office) for 1st—8th grades, and in the pre K classroom (room across hallway from Mr. C’s room) for pre K and Kindergarten.All students must be signed-in upon arrival and singed-out upon dismissal with the time the parents did so Parents may park along the sidewalk between 4:00 and 6:00 pm for After Care. Otherwise parents may not park in this area and must park in the designated areas.

Arrival/Dismissal Traffic Pattern

All Drivers use the North Driveway (ENTER ONLY)Pre-K—2nd grade and All Drivers that need to come into the building will have to park on the South side of the lot or the West end of the gravel lot and walk your children to and from the school3rd—8th grade will line up their vehicles parallel to the sidewalk with the first car to the very end.

-Arrival—Students will exit the vehicle on the sidewalk side and walk to their classroom.-Dismissal—Students will identify their ride and teacher will check the pickup slip and dismiss

them to their vehicle to enter on the side-walk side.

Once you have dropped off your child or picked them up please cautiously exit the property to the west end. Do not exit onto Western from the property. The west driveway will take you to Brookwood Drive where you can make a left (south) to Lincoln Hwy. or a right (north) to either 207th Street and right to Western (no light) or to Country Club Dr. and right to Western (light).

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Crisis Response Plan HCA staff members regularly pray that God will protect all of the HCA students and their families. In order to address the challenge of maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment for all students, HCA has developed a crisis response plan. This plan is regularly reviewed by staff with students so that students are prepared to be as safe as possible in the event of an emergency. HCA makes provision to practice all of the basic drills with staff and students including shelter-in-place (threatening weather), lockdown, bus evacuation, and on-site primary evacuation (usually fire drills).Provision has also been made with neighboring park district in a reciprocal agreement in the event of the need for secon- dary evacuation and relocation of students off-site. For the safety of all involved, parents may not pick up their children during a practice drill, or in the event of a real emergency until the school and/or the local authorities have declared an―all clear.‖ Parents will receive full information concerning real emergencies as soon as that information represents no further threat to the safety of those involved.

HCA’s crisis response plan utilizes the experience of local fire and law enforcement agencies who review policies and procedures, suggest improvements, and educate the administration so that improvements can be made. HCA updates its crisis response plan yearly.

Fire and Tornado Drills A total of six to ten (6-10) practice drills will be held during the school year. Fire and tornado drills are also part of instructional time. Students must rapidly follow directions with absolutely no disorderly conduct. Teachers will instruct the students of each class concerning the location of exits to be used when the alarm sounds. Parents and students should be familiarized with the following rules during fire and tornado drills:

1. Do not talk, run or push.2. Move quickly.3. Stay in line.4. In the instance of fire drills, use the nearest exit if away from your group.5. In the instance of tornado drills, go to your assigned place in the building, or join the nearest group if away

from your group.6. During tornado drills, sit on the floor, knees drawn to the chest, covering your head with your arms.7. During tornado drills, stay away from windows and glass.8. Leave the washrooms. EVERYONE MUST PARTICIPATE!9. In the case of a real emergency, listen for the teachers’ directions and follow drill procedures at all times.

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DisciplineHomewood Christian Academy is not a corrective institution. We do not enroll students with the idea that they will be re- formed. We are here to work with the home, and we need the parent’s support to disciple students. Students must at all times conduct themselves in a manner becoming of a Christian. Griping is not tolerated! A student’s attitude must adhere with the school’s policies and principles. Homewood Christian Academy is dedicated to the training of a student in a program of study and lifestyle that is Christ-centered. We believe that ―all things should be done decently and in order‖ and that our students must be taught to accept the given responsibility to ―walk honorably before all men.‖ Thus, at Homewood Christian Academy, discipline is maintained which is firm, consistent, fair and tempered with love. Our staff maintains standards of behavior in the classroom through kindness, love and genuine regard for their students. However, when disciplinary action becomes necessary, it is firmly carried out, tempered by good judgment and understanding.

Demerits or communication reports are given for disturbances or broken rules. When a student receives a detention, a detention slip will be sent home with the student, to be signed by the parent and returned the following morning, signifying that the parents are aware of the detention. Further information on demerits, communication reports or detention procedures can be obtained from the teacher or the school office.

If the student is consistently violating the rules and is displaying a pattern of behavior which is endangering students, dis- rupting the classroom, and detrimental to the spirit of the school, that student may be suspended and/or evaluated by the administration which may rule that the student be expelled. Parents who do not support our rules and/or policies will be asked to withdraw their children and find a school whose policies they can support. Please read pages 21 through 28 carefully for classroom rules. Our rules are clear and we enforce them without apology to guarantee safe, productive learning in a Christian setting for all students.

ALL NEW STUDENTS ARE ADMITTED ON AN “OBSERVATION” BASIS FOR THE

FIRST NINE WEEKS. IF A PROBLEM OCCURS DURING THE OBSERVATION PERIOD, A CON- FERENCE WITH BOTH THE STUDENT AND THE PARENTS WILL BE

REQUIRED. THIS COULD POSSIBLY LEAD TO TERMINATION FROM THE SCHOOL.

Corporal Punishment Homewood Christian Academy does not use corporal punishment as a form of discipline. Alternatives to corporal punishment include emphasizing Biblical guidelines for acceptable behavior, praying with students, and teaching them to enlist the help of the Holy Spirit to produce self-control. Teachers and administrators consistently enforce rules and apply predetermined consequences for breaking rules. The planned program for all students includes instruction on the guidelines, rules, and consequences.

At application, upon students’ entry into the school, and when parents receive a copy of the Student Handbook, they are asked to sign an agreement demonstrating their willingness to support HCA policies and to reinforce them at home with their children. Children enrolled in grades five through eight are asked to sign an agreement indicating their willingness to follow the rules. They also sign the code of conduct which requires application of the standards of Christian living both in and out of school. These signed agreements are kept on file. Alternatives for students who do not respond positively to correction include conferences with students for explaining and planning acceptable behavior, parent/teacher/administrator conferences about student behavior, detentions, suspension and ultimately withdrawal or expulsion.

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School-Wide Discipline Policy (Kindergarten through 8th grade) We firmly believe all children can behave in an appropriate manner. Any behavior that prevents a teacher from teaching or a student from learning will not be allowed.

School-wide General Rules:1. Follow directions quickly the first time given, without comment or complaint.2. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.3. Refrain from name-calling or teasing.4. Walk quietly when inside the school.5. Act respectfully and responsibly at all times.

Lunch Room:1. Throwing food is prohibited.2. Clean up your space after eating.3. Stay in your seat until dismissed. Students are not allowed to leave the lunch room without permission.4. No extorting food or money from other students.

Bathroom:1. Do not waste time.2. Practice good personal hygiene.3. Flush toilets, place trash in trash can and clean around sink area when finished.

Severe Clause/ ZERO TOLERANCE A child will be sent immediately to the administration office if he or she:

1. Commits or threatens to commit physical harm to another student or adult.2. Damages any school property, including any student’s or leader’s personal belongings.3. Engages in defiant behavior that prevents the classroom from functioning.4. Says, writes, draws or displays anything inappropriate.5. Breaks any zero-tolerance policy.6. Card Turn System (Grades K5 - 4th) (Pre-K uses Stoplight System) - After four card turns in one day, a child will be

sent to the administration office upon receiving the green card slip. The administrator will then follow the severe clause consequences.

If a student is on observation and displays behavior that enacts the severe clause, he/she could be terminated from the school. (See page 17)

Severe Clause Consequences

1. FIRST time: - Child will serve a one-day out-of-school suspension.- Parents will be called and asked to discipline the child.- Conference with parents and child will be scheduled.

2. SECOND time: - Two-day out-of-school suspension.- Academic work must be completed upon return to school.

3. THIRD time: - One week out-of-school suspension.- Academic work will must be completed upon return to school.

4. FOURTH time: - Child expelled from Homewood Christian Academy

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ProbationA student who consistently displays behavior or attitudes that are in opposition to the standards and requirements of HCA will be placed on disciplinary probation. The following conditions will define this probation procedure:

Students will be placed on disciplinary probation at the discretion of the school administration. The probation period will be for a pre-determined time, not less than one quarter in duration.Students on probation and their parents must sign a performance contract that details the behavior and attitudes that must be improved, along with the consequences if the contract is broken.Students on probation will not be allowed to represent HCA or participate in any special activities; such as sports team activities, graduation activities, etc.

The administration and faculty will decide regarding a student’s removal from probationary status at the end of the probation period. Any student who remains on the probation list for two successive semesters or who breaks their behavior contract will be asked to leave HCA

SuspensionA student may be suspended, out-of-school, for a period of time up to five (5) days at the discretion of the administration, for repeated or serious infractions regarding school rules and polices. Behavior that could result in a suspension includes enactment of the severe clause, skipping classes or leaving the classroom without permission, excessive detentions, forged signatures, fighting, use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, threatening to commit bodily harm even though no weapon is present or other serious violations of HCA’s conduct requirements. Possession of alcohol, tobacco, drugs or weapons, may be reported to the local authority.

Any student who commits a behavior violation that requires multiple days of suspension from school with the possibility of returning to HCA may not participate in any special activities, such as sports team activities, graduation activities, etc.

Any assignments turned in after the day indicated on the suspension form will receive a grade of zero. The student must make up any missed test(s) on the day of the his/her return. Teachers are not required to provide extra academic help to students who have been suspended.

Throwing rocks is strictly prohibited, and will result in suspension.

ExpulsionImmediate expulsion could result from serious offenses such as:

Possession, use, distribution or sale of dangerous weapons, explosives, or fireworksPossession, use, transmission, sale, distribution or being under the influence of any narcotic, drug, cannabis, inha- lant, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, stimulant, depressant, look-alike drugs, designer drugs, alcoholic beverages, drug paraphernalia, human growth hormones, anabolic steroid, abused prescription or non-prescription drugs or chemicals of any kindFalse fire alarmsVandalism - defaced property is to be replaced at offending student’s expense Arson, bombs and/or the threat of suchSexual misconductAttacks against school personnel or fellow students Violent and vulgar written communication or drawingsThreatening to commit bodily harm even though no weapon is present Fourth enactment of the severe clauseAny infraction of the federal, state or local penal code leading to a student’s arrest on or off campus Bullying / Cyberbullying

Students who do not respond to corrective measures and continue exhibiting negative behavior and/or attitudes, or who are involved in very serious misconduct will be asked to withdraw from HCA or face expulsion.Parents have the right to appeal the administrator’s decision before the School Board. This hearing should take place within five (5) school days. Such a hearing should proceed as follows:

The administration will present the case to the School Board. (Documents such as report cards, warnings, progress reports, discipline referrals, plus any other relevant information will be available). The student and his/her parents will not be present at this review.

The parent and/or legal guardian and the student will then be invited to present any information that they would like in writing or in person prior to the School Board’s final decision.

The School Board will consider in private all of the facts that were presented and will decide what final action will be fair to the student, to the other students at HCA and to all who are concerned about our school and its future.

All expulsions will be the final decision of the School Board of Homewood Christian Academy. Once a decision to expel is in effect, the option to withdraw is no longer applicable.

Any student that has been expelled or asked to withdraw will not be allowed to participate in any school-sponsored activities, including any graduations, extracurricular or student-led events. Expelled students will not be permitted to attend HCA in succeeding years.

Classroom Rules (PreKindergarten-3 through 8th grade) The following list of rules are considered general guidelines for conduct in the classroom but not limited to the classroom. These guidelines will be enforced from PreKindergarten-3 through 8th grade, addressing academic and non-academic discipline. This policy is to provide continuity in the administration of discipline and guidelines. The students will become familiar with these guidelines as they progress from grade to grade. Any infraction of the guidelines and the consequences of breaking the rules will be determined by the teacher. These are general guidelines and are intended to assist the teacher in creating the a productive learning environment.

Memory WorkMonthly scripture memory is required. Monthly scripture may be said in two parts. The New International Version of the Bible will be used in the classroom.

HomeworkWhen homework is sent home it must be completed and returned by the date written on the slip. A parent’s signature on a homework slip indicates that the parent has checked the child’s homework, and that the work has been done completely and properly. If homework is incomplete, one demerit or communication report will be given for each day the assignment is not returned completed. It is the responsibility of the student to bring home all homework assignments. If a student is absent, they will be given one day for each day absent to make up daily work, assignments and tests. The responsibility for scholastic achievement is placed on the student.

General School-Wide Behavior―Let no man despise they youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.‖ (1 Timothy 4:12)

―Be ye kTinHdEoFneOtLoLanOoWtheIrN.‖G(ERpUheLsEiaSnsA4R:3E2)TO BE MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES IF VIOLATED, ONE CARD TURN OR (1) DEMERIT WILL BE GIVEN.

Students are expected to act in an orderly and respectable manner, maintaining Christian standards in courtesy, kindness, language, morality and honesty. Students should strive toward Christian character in dress, conduct and attitude. Students will not leave their desks without permission from the teacher. No trips to the wastebasket or pencil sharp- ener without permission from the teacher. Wandering is not allowed.Students are not allowed to chew gum on the school grounds. Food is to be eaten at appropriate times only. Students are expected to conform to the dress code during school hours (8:30am - 4pm).Students are expected to conform to proper hair code. Students need permission to talk during class.Students are expected to be quiet and orderly in chapel and the hallways and when entering and exiting the classroom. Students may not disturb others by talking, laughing out loud, passing notes, etc. Every student should be working

quietly and diligently at all times. 20

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Students must obtain a pass to leave class or to use off-limit areas. Students must respect school property.For the safety of all involved, leaning back on a chair, leaving a chair out or sitting on top of a table or desk will not be permitted.

THE FOLLOWING RULES ARE TO BE MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES.

IF VIOLATED, TWO (2) TO FOUR (4) CARD TURNS OR DEMERITS WILL BE GIVEN.

Students are expected to be honest and truthful. Lying will NOT BE PERMITTED. Students are not to throw any objects in the classroom.Students should have a pleasant attitude. Students must be courteous and thoughtful to other students at all times. Any student who displays a bad attitude will receive four (4) demerits. Any student who is involved in a fight will receive a minimum of four (4) demerits depending on the nature and severity of the offense, with the possibility of suspension or termination.Students are to respect all school staff. Bad language, talking back, and arguing with any staff member is not permitted.Homewood Christian Academy has rules which, if violated, supersede demerit consequences and will result in application of the severe clause.

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1st Grade Through 4th Grade Students will be given warnings for certain misbehavior in the classroom. Communication Reports will be sent home when those misbehaviors continue beyond 2 card changes in a day.

The Yellow card will serve as warnings. The Orange card will enact a time out.The Red card will warrant a Communication Report.The Green card will warrant a Communication Report plus a trip to the administrator’s office.

Students must raise their hands to get permission before talking in class. Students are not to leave their seats or the classroom without permission. Students will keep the area in and around their desks clean.Gum chewing is not allowed on the school grounds. Food is to be eaten at appropriate times only. Students must walk in a straight, quiet line whenever they are in the hallway.Students will move in and out of bathrooms as quickly as possible. No loitering, playing, etc. Students are expected to display Christian character in their behavior toward others.Students are expected to obey all lunchroom, playground and chapel/assembly rules.Students are expected to be in uniform and conform to the dress code during school hours (8:00am - 3:30pm).

Students will receive communication reports without any warnings for disregard to certain rules, including those listed below:

Students will observe off-limit areas: sanctuary, teacher’s lounge, kitchens, teacher’s desk and others’ work areas in the classroom, etc.There is to be no fighting.No student will steal or damage the property of others.Total respect is to be shown toward all staff members. Students will be obedient to all school and church staff. Offensive and unkind language is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.Honesty is expected from students at all times.Homework and all other communication requiring a parent signature is to be completed and returned to school on the following school day.

If two or more Communication Reports are given to a student in one week’s time, a detention will be assigned to be served after school. At the teacher’s discretion, phone conferences will inform parent of on-going problems.

If a student receives 12 or more Communication Reports in a semester, a conference will be scheduled with the parents, the teacher and the principal plus a one (1) day out of school suspension will be served. The student will be placed on probation. If four (4) more Communication Reports are received the student may be terminated from the school.If a conference is necessary with the parents because the student has reached the limit of Communication Reports, the student will not be allowed to attend class until the parents come for the conference. Every day absent will be unexcused. If a total of seven (7) unexcused days are reached before the parents come for the conference, the student may be terminated from the school.

MORE THAN FOUR (4) COMMUNICATION REPORTS GIVEN IN ONE

QUARTER WILL DISQUALIFY THE STUDENT FROM HONOR ROLL FOR THAT

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1st & 2nd Grade Guidelines Regular DetentionsTwo (2) Communication Reports in one week will equal (1) detention One (1) detention will equal 30 minutes

THREE (3) DETENTIONS IN ONE QUARTER WILL RESULT IN A ONE (1) DAY OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION.

Detention PolicyDetentions must be served on the designated day. Additional detentions will be assigned if the detention is delayed.

Forging Signatures and Stealing1st offense: warning2nd offense: one (1) day out of school suspension 3rd offense: two (2) days out of school suspension 4th offense: expulsion

Cheating1st offense: Test to be taken over with 80% highest possible grade

Conference scheduled at teacher’s discretion

2nd offense: 0% on testCommunication Report to parents

3rd offense: 0% on testOne (1) day out of school suspension

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3rd & 4th Grade Guidelines Regular DetentionsTwo (2) Communication Reports in one week will equal one (1) detention One (1) detention will equal 30 minutes

THREE (3) DETENTIONS IN ONE QUARTER WILL RESULT IN A ONE-DAY OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUS- PENSION.

Detention PolicyDetentions must be served on the designated day. Additional detentions will be assigned if the detention is delayed.

Forging Signatures and Stealing1st offense: communication report and disqualification from honor roll 2nd offense: one (1) day out of school suspension3rd offense: two (2) days out of school suspension 4th offense: expulsion

Cheating1st offense: (1) Communication Report = automatic detention

disqualification from honor rolltest re-taken (80% highest possible grade)

2nd offense: 0% on testOne (1) day out of school suspension

3rd offense: Possible termination from school

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5th through 8th Grade Guidelines Passes

Students are expected to use the restroom during designated breaks. During class time bathroom passes will be issued only in emergencies.

Regular DetentionsFour (4) demerits in one week will equal one (1) detention One (1) detention will equal 60 minutes

Detention PolicyDetentions must be served on the designated day after school hours. If the student misbehaves during detention or the detention is delayed, additional time will be assigned.

Forging Signatures and Stealing1st offense: One (1) day out-of-school suspension 2nd offense: Two (2) days out-of-school suspension 3rd offense: Three (3) days out-of-school suspension 4th offense: Possible expulsion

Cheating/Plagiarism1st offense: 0% on test or assignments and four (4)

demerits Automatic detentionDisqualification from honor roll

2nd offense: 0% on testOne (1) day out of school

suspension 3rd offense: Possible expulsion

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ACADEMIC DEMERITS - (A)

Incomplete assignments constitute one (1) Academic Demerit.

If a total of twenty (20) demerits is reached in a semester, the student will be put on ACADEMIC PROBATION, plus a conference with the parents. If a student reaches a total of ten (10) more demerits during the probation period, this will result in a one (1) day out of school suspension, and if an additional ten (10) more demerits are received the student could be terminated from the school.

IF A STUDENT RECEIVES A ―D‖ OR ―F‖ GRADE IN ANY SUBJECT, THE STUDENT WILL BE PLACED ON ―ACADEMIC ALERT‖. THE STUDENT WILL BE EXPECTED TO RAISE THAT GRADE DURING THE FOLLOWING QUARTER. A CONFERENCE MAY ALSO BE REQUIRED.

BEHAVIOR DEMERITS - (B)

Behavior demerit(s) are issued for improper dress code, forgetting to have any slips, including homework slips signed, cheating or any other misbehavior.

If a total of thirteen (13) demerits is reached in a semester, the student will be put on BEHAVIOR PROBATION, plus one (1) day out of school suspension and a conference with the parents. If a student reaches a total of twelve(12) more demerits during the probation period, the student will be terminated from the school.

If a conference is necessary with the parents because the student has reached the limit of demerits, the student will not be allowed to attend class until the parents come for the conference. Every day absent will be unexcused. If a total of seven (7) unexcused days are reached before the parents come for the conference, the student will be terminated from the school.

MORE THAN EIGHT (8) DEMERITS GIVEN IN ONE QUARTER WILL DISQUALIFY THE STUDENT FROM HONOR

ROLL FOR THAT QUARTER.

ADMINISTRATIVE DISCRETION WILL APPLY, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO ALL MATTERS

INCLUD- ING THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE.

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Hallway, Great Room and Playground Rules Hallway Rules

Students must walk in a straight line, single file, staying to the right in the hallways, keeping hands and shoes off the walls. Pushing, shoving, hitting, running, jumping, talking will not be tolerated.

P.E. RulesStudents must wear shoes at all times (proper for the occasion). Pushing, shoving or hitting will not be tolerated.Students must stay off and away from any equipment, lunch tables, etc. Fitness equipment must be used in the proper manner

Playground/Outside RulesThe teacher will set limits as to how far the students may go out on the park area.Balls should not be used too close to the building, especially near walls with windows. Hard baseballs are not allowed.Shoes should be kept on at all times. No student should ever play in their stocking feet either inside or outside. Students should remember to WALK, not RUN, for their own safety.Don’t be a litter bug! Keep paper and other waste material off the ground.Roughness will not be allowed on the playground. Do not snatch articles of clothing, books, lunch boxes, etc. No throwing of stones, sticks or other hard objects. A student who throws any object will be suspended.SNOWBALL THROWING WILL NOT BE ALLOWED.Students will not be allowed to climb trees or trespass on our neighbors’ properties.Playing is PROHIBITED in the following areas:

-Parking Lot, and the grassy area outside the school and sidewalks Jumping off the platform of the playground equipment is prohibitedOne child at a time may use a swing-swinging in the proper direction-no twisting of the chain to spin-using it in a proper manner. Students may not push another student on a swing.One child at a time may slide down the slide-using it in a proper manner. Monkey bars should be used in a proper manner. Students should get on and off of them at the predetermined sides. Students should not climb up and just sit on top of the bars.Pushing, shoving, hitting, or fighting over playground equipment will not be tolerated.

Off Limits:(DEMERITS OR COMMUNICATION REPORTS WILL BE GIVEN DEPENDING ON THE OFFENSE)

Other student’s desks, gym bags, or lunches Teacher’s desk and filesIn the classroom without staff presentAll school equipment, including piano, drums and sound equipment (except where authorized) School officesTemple hallway past the officeSocial Hall (When not being used for a school function) In front of main temple building (outside)Student pass is required when in any off limit areas

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Campus Rules Media and MusicOnly Christian music which glorifies the Lord is permitted at Homewood Christian Academy. All books, magazines, music tapes or CDs must be approved by the administration, staff or teacher upon student’s arrival at school. Any other items, be it toys, pictures, etc. deemed inappropriate by the school administration will not be allowed to be brought to school. No electronic toys, games, iPods, MP3 players, etc. will be permitted. If items are brought to the school and displayed in any way, items will be given to the administration to be picked up by the parent/guardian only. Instruments are to be played only in supervised music class.

Approved On Campus LiteratureStudents may not bring any unapproved secular literature (example: the Twilight series, Harry Potter, etc., video game magazines) to school. HCA can furnish parents with pre-approved reading lists for each grade level. Reading lists are available in the school office. Christian books, fiction and non-fiction, for various grade levels are available for check out at book centers located within the classrooms. Students who read or share literature on school grounds that has not been pre-approved by the faculty or administration of the school will be suspended for one day.

Cell Phone PolicyBecause of our constantly changing world, HCA has adopted a cell phone policy with strong measures to protect all of the children who attend. HCA Students are not allowed to take out or use their cell phones in school from 8:15 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. This is a zero tolerance policy. Students may not go on-line, converse, text, record, play games, play music, take pictures or use their cell phones at all while school is in session. If a student is caught with a cell phone during school hours, the child will enact the severe clause at whatever level that particular child’s behavior record indicates, with a one- day out of school suspension as the minimum consequence. Any confiscated cell phone will be taken to insist that standards of Christian behavior remain in force at all times; therefore, students’ cell phone contents may be examined by an administrator at will. If the student’s cell phone contents violate our Christian standards and our Code of Conduct, including, but not limited to: vulgar or pornographic material, the child will be expelled.

If a parent or guardian wants to contact his/her child in morning or after care via a cell phone, the child must talk in full hearing of a staff member, and the staff member will ask that the speaker on the phone identify himself/herself. Students will not be allowed to use their cell phones in any other manner during before/after care.

Closed Campus PolicyStudents of Homewood Christian Academy cannot leave the school campus during school hours without permission.

LanguageUse only words which glorify the Lord.

PartiesParties are not school sponsored unless parents receive a notification letter from the school. Any parties designated as a school party on Homewood Christian Academy grounds must be coordinated through the administration. Birthday parties

cannot be held during school hours as this takes away from the academic time and also the 30-minute lunch periods. Par- ents will be allowed to bring only pre-packaged treats to the school for a child’s birthday to be taken home at the end of the day. Any unacceptable items will be sent home with the student.

Visitors & Phone CallsAll parents and visitors are required to stop at the school office, sign in, and pick up a visitors pass. Visitors must desig- nate their exact destination in the building. No visitor is allowed to go to any other area in the building except for the approved designated place. This is for our students’/your children’s protection. Parents are not to disturb classrooms or any of the teachers during school hours. If you need to speak with the teacher, please make an appointment with the school office.

Parent/Guardians are not permitted to observe while classes are in progress. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to attend chapels, all school activities and special events. Parents/Guardians may choose to eat lunch with their child after securing a visitor’s pass from the school office.

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Intruders (visitors without permission) will be told to go to the office and follow visitor procedures. If thisrequest is not obeyed, first lockdown alert will be in effect. Visitors or family members who uses vulgarity, display an- ger, and/or aggressive behavior will be asked to leave the premises. Visitors or family members who harass staff members will be asked to withdraw their child(ren) from HCA.

No student will be taken from class to accept phone calls. Any emergency messages will be sent to the room immediately. Messages will be left in the teacher’s mailbox; however, it is impossible to guarantee that the student will receive the message if it is called in after 3pm. The school phone is reserved for official school business only. Students will not be allowed out of class to receive phone messages. Students are not allowed to call home because they simply ―forgot something.‖

Classroom ObservationClassroom observation by parents, visitors, etc. will not be allowed, as this is most disruptive to the learning process. However, parents are always invited to join with students for chapels, assemblies, and special designated days.

Uniform and Grooming Code The complete uniform, conducive to good study habits, is worn by all students in order that the proper emphasis may be placed upon the matter of dress. Homewood Christian Academy makes no apology for the fact that it seeks to use every means at its disposal, including dress, to encourage its students to think and act like ladies and gentlemen. The complete uniform encourages each student to gain recognition through personal charm or conscientious work. It serves as an economy measure for parents and gives the student a distinctive appearance showing school pride and Christian deportment.

See Appendix A for the HCA dress code for all grades. Any student who remains after school for any sports event must either be in their school uniform or their P.E. uniform.

PLEASE COOPERATE WITH THE PARKING LOT GUIDELINES TO INSURE

THE SAFETY OF YOUR CHILDREN AND ELIMINATE CONFUSION AND POTENTIAL HAZARDS.

THE DRESS CODE MUST BE OBSERVED DURING CAMPUS HOURS 8:00AM - 3:30PM

On Picture Days, students are allowed to wear dress clothes. The girls may wear dresses or skirts with blouses or sweaters (no jeans or slacks of any kind). The dress or skirt must be BELOW THE BOTTOM OF THE KNEE and the neckline must be NO LOWER THAN THE COLLARBONE (clavicle). The boys must be in shirts with TIES and dress pants. On HCA days, students can wear their HCA t-shirts, warm-up suits and sweatshirts. They can wear standard jeans (no tight fitting, ―fashionably torn,‖ or jeans covered in designs).On JERSEY days, students may wear their favorite sports team jersey and jeans as described above. Students who violate dress down guidelines will lose the privilege of dressing down.

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―What? Know ye not your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye

have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.‖ 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.

Wellness Policy In response to recent legislation by the state of Illinois and the need to increase student health and reduce childhood obesity and related diseases, HCA has implemented some basic procedures to ensure student wellness, health, and the importance of oral health. Our goal is to educate our children about the importance of maintaining wellness by eating healthy foods, taking care of their teeth, and by participating in age-appropriate physical activities. We hope the parents and guardians will join with us by supporting this policy not only in school, but at home.

HCA has developed the following Wellness Policy:HCA will support and promote good nutrition for all students.HCA will foster the positive relationship between good nutrition, physical activity, and the capacity of students to develop and to learn.Nutrition education will be part of HCA’s health education curriculum.HCA will not allow, provide, or sell unhealthy foods or beverages during the school day.Parents or guardians bringing lunches and beverages to school during the school day are asked to bring healthy foods and to avoid fast food and sugar-laden drinks such as soda and sports drinks.HCA will support and promote an active lifestyle for all students.HCA will support and promote dental hygiene as well. Each February, HCA brings in an Orthodontist to bring awareness about the importance of oral health

Since implementation of this policy requires parents and teachers to provide healthy alternatives for lunches and parties that involve our students, we really appreciate your understanding and support. Please realize that parents are always free to choose to provide whatever they wish in their individual child’s lunch, provided that the food or drinks are not harmful nor expose our students to dangerous allergic reactions. However, we are asking that all parents consider the connection between learning, behavior, and nutrition and provide their children with healthy food. In the event that parents continue to bring or send lunches for their children that include unhealthy foods, the parents will be asked to provide healthy alternatives.

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Breakfast/Lunch Procedures Breakfast is provided each morning at 7:45 a.m. for morning care students for a nominal fee. Students who do not attend morning care may enter the building at 8:00 a.m. to eat breakfast. Hot lunch is also available for purchase. Students who order lunch must pay in advance for the following week’s menu. Please visit the office for a current menu, fee schedule, and NSLP free/reduced lunch application.

Students who do not order lunch are to bring a sack lunch each day. Lunch boxes are permitted, but should not depict anything of unhealthy moral standards. If at all possible, lunch boxes should be solid in color. Milk may be purchased during lunch period. Please follow the wellness guidelines when preparing sack lunches. If your child needs eating utensils or paper products, please send them from home, as we will not be able to provide the student with these items.

At the beginning of the lunch period during service time, students must form a single line to receive lunch or purchase milk. Students will have a silent lunch for the first 10 minutes of the period in order to allow for suf- ficient time to eat. After the first 10 minutes talking should be kept to a minimum while the children continue to finish their lunch. Students should remain seated while eating. No yelling or fighting will be permitted. No student will be allowed to leave the lunchroom without permission from the lunch supervisor. All students must eat at their designated area only.

Students must eat all of their lunch (the only exception is sickness). All accidents involving food must be cleaned by the students, although assistance may be necessary with the younger children. Each student must clean up his area after eating, throwing away his/her own garbage, etc.

No running will be permitted during the lunch period. Also no balls, toys, electronic items, etc. will be permitted during the lunch period.

If a student has forgotten his/her lunch, PLEASE BRING THE LUNCH, WITH THE STUDENT’S NAME WRITTEN ON THE BAG, TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE, NOT TO HIS CLASSROOM.

Physical Education The policy of Homewood Christian Academy is that no student be excused from the required Physical Educa- tion course offered without a written doctor’s excuse. All students should practice good sportsmanship at all times.

Physical Education, as part of the Homewood Christian Academy curriculum, is for the express purpose of meeting the physical needs of the students.

P.E. clothes must be taken home daily for washing. A detailed guideline will be given to the student by theP.E. instructor.

Lost and Found All lost and found items will be placed in marked bins on the uniform exchange racks, with the exception of jewelry, glasses, watches, purses and keys, which will be kept in the school office.

At the end of each quarter, all items which have not been picked up will then become the property of the school and will be discarded. The school cannot be held responsible for stolen or lost items, or any item that a student may bring to school. However, we will do what we can to help you locate lost items.

PLEASE MARK YOUR CHILD’S NAME ON EVERYTHING BROUGHT OR WORN TO SCHOOL.

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Progress Reports The grading system of Homewood Christian Academy is designed to give parents a true indication of the student’s progress or lack thereof.

Progress Reports are given to the parents at the scheduled parent/teacher conference after each quarter. The report is to be signed by the parent and returned to Homewood Christian Academy within one week following issuance. However, if the tuition account is not current, report cards will not be given to the parents.

Grading - 1st through 8th Grade

98.00% - 100.00% A+

95.00% - 97.99% A

92.50% - 94.99% A-

90.00% - 92.49% B+

87.50% - 89.99% B

85.00% - 87.49% B-

82.50% - 84.99% C+

77.50% - 82.49% C

75.00% - 77.49% C-

72.50% - 74.99% D

70.00% - 72.49% D-

69.99% & below F

The following guidelines are given for promotion and retention:

PreKindergarten-3 through KindergartenDiscretion of teacher based on readiness. Notification to the administration is required.

1st - 8th GradeStudents must pass all core and elective subjects with at least a ―D‖ in order to be promoted. Students who obtain a failing score in any subject will be retained.

InterventionAn intervention is indicated whenever a child of at least average intelligence experiences academic or behavior difficulties that interfere with his/her learning. Interventions can include remediation, but remediation is not the primary goal of an intervention plan. The goal of the intervention program is to assist the at-risk student within the regular classroom setting to be able to learn successfully.

ExceptionsIf at any time it becomes apparent that a student who has been given additional help, using various learning strategies and all resources available at this school, requires special testing and/or special educational placement which is not available at HCA The cost of all outside testing and placement assessments is the parents’ responsibility.

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Field Trips In connection with their studies in the arts and sciences, the students will have a number of field trips scheduled during the year, weather permitting. Although such off-campus learning experiences are of real enjoy- ment for the students, it is to be realized that these experience are designed primarily to enrich learning.Teachers may ask students to take notes and a test upon returning to school.

A natural outgrowth of such trips, under the supervision of adults on every occasion, is that the student is disciplined in all kinds of situations. School uniforms are to be worn on every trip, unless otherwise designated by the administrator.

Each student must have THE PERMISSION SLIP SENT FROM THE SCHOOL SIGNED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN AND FEES PAID, before the student can accompany a group on his/her field trip. Any parent who volunteers to drive must submit their current Drivers License, a current Driving Record from the DMV and current State Identification Card.

All costs for transportation will be apportioned among the students participating in the field trip. Except for―local‖ field trips, no trip will be undertaken with less than one adult for every ten students. Mothers and/or fathers may assist as chaperones. How e ve r, w e d o ask that y oung e r children not a cc ompa n y c hap e rones . All chaperones are to dress modestly. Unruly students will be reported to the teacher-in-charge for disciplinary measures.

NO P HO NE P E R M I SS ION O R HA N D W RI T TE N N OTE S W I LL B E

ACCE P T AB LE. NOR WILL T HE O FF I CE CA LL HO M E IF THE S T UD E NT F OR G ET S HI S /HE R P E R M I SS ION S L I P .

Honor Roll At the end of each nine-week grading period, honor roll recognizes 3rd through 8th grade students who have displayed academic excellence. Students must maintain the following average:

3rd - 4th Grade 5th - 8th Grade High Honors: 95.00% - 100.00% High Honors: 92.50% - 100.00%Honors: 90.00% - 94.99% Honors: 90.00% - 92.49%

Requirements are:

1. Must have a ―C‖ or higher in all academic core subjects.2. Memorization of monthly scripture.3. Minimum average of 90.00%.4. Elective grade must be ―C+‖ or above (Art, Music, P.E.).5. No incompletes in any subjects.6. No more than eight (8) demerits (5th-8th) (no in-school or out-of-school suspensions).7. No more than four (4) communication reports (2nd-4th).

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Transcripts When a student transfers into Homewood Christian Academy, parents are to sign a form giving us permission to request transcripts of grades and all records from his/her former school. Before another school will release the student’s records, all or any financial obligations must have been cleared from the previous school. Without these records, HCA will be unable to proceed with the admission process.

When a student transfers from our school, we have to wait until a similar request is made formally by his/her new school. No records will be released to another school until all financial obligations have been met. There is a two-week turnover time for all transfers and letters of recommendation.

A student’s permanent file will not be given to parents or students, but will be transferred from school to school.

Transcripts will not be released to another school and Progress Report cards or diplomas

will not be given to the student/parent until the Homewood Christian Academy financial

Achievement Testing Each year, every student (1st through 8th grade) will be given a nationally recognized achievement test. This is done for both student’s/parent’s benefit, and for our own use in evaluating the effectiveness of our school’s academic program. Achievement test results become part of each student’s permanent record. A parent copy of the achievement test results will also be available. One week during the month of April will be set aside for testing.

These are the most important days in the school year, and testing cannot be made up. Parents should make every effort to have children here for achievement testing week. These tests are part of your child’s permanent record.

All 8th grade graduating students must take the achievement test prior to graduation.

GraduatesAll prospective graduates are expected to exhibit good behavior and study habits throughout the school year. Additionally, all graduates must be in good standing in order to participate in the graduation exercises and other graduation activities. Also, the elementary accumulative record must be complete, including records transferred from previous schools. We must have, in our file, all records from all previous schools the student may have attended.

Eighth graders must pass the appropriate subjects and meet all graduation requirements. It is very important that both you and your eighth grader are aware of graduation requirements. In order to graduate from junior high school to high school, your child must:

Pass all of his/her subjects. That means that he/she must earn a minimum cumulative percentage in each of his/her subjects of 70%Complete all monthly Scripture memory workPass examinations on the Illinois and United States Constitutions with a minimum score of 70% Serve all detentionsReturn all booksPay the graduation fee

In addition to the above requirements, all financial obligations, including tuition, morning and aftercare fees, library late fees, tardy fines, the cost of lost or damaged books, etc., must be paid in full. If any of the above

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conditions are not met, your child will not be able to participate in commencement and records will not be released to the forwarding high school until all obligations have been met.

Further, Administration reserves the right to suspend these privileges should the student be on probation at the time of graduation.

AL

L FEES MUST BE PAID, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO TUITION,

BOOK FEES, LATE FEES/FINES, MC/AC FEES, LIBRARY FINES, GRADUATION FEES, ETC. IN ORDER FOR BOTH THE KINDERGARTEN AND 8TH GRADE STU- DENTS TO PARTICIPATE DURING THE GRADUATION CEREMONIES.

For Kindergarten graduates there will be a charge for the purchase of the caps which the student will be able to keep.

School Closing In case of severe weather or emergency situations, HCA may be closed or starting time delayed or early dismissal may be necessary. School closing information because of severe weather conditions can be obtained by calling the following numbers:

Emergency Closing Center Hotline: 1-847-238-1234

Public Website: www. EmergencyClosings.com

(You may also sign up for personalized e-mail notification at

www.EmergencyClosings.com) Radio Stations: WGN/720AM, WBBM/78AM

TV Stations: CBS/2, NBC/5, ABC/7, WGN/9, FOX/12

Please do not call teachers or administrators at home.

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Although we do not offer athletic programs, many of our students participate in ― Naz Spo rts‖ located at:

Chicago Heights Church of the Nazarene 699 W. 8th St.Chicago Heights, Il 60411

Phone: (709)-481-3210 x8

Website: Nazsports.com

Basketball camps in November. They have Boys and Girls Basketball Girls cheerleading starting in JanuaryBoys and Girls T-Ball and Baseball starting in late April. Age range is from 3-13 depending on the sport

Check the website for more details

APPENDIX A: Dress Code

STUDENTS MUST BE IN THE PROPER UNIFORM AT ALL TIMES. ADMINISTRATIVE DISCRETION WILL APPLY IN ALL DRESS CODE AND DISCIPLINE MATTERS.

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GIRLS-BASIC UNIFORM PRE-KINDERGARTEN TO 4TH GRADE

JUMPERSMUST BE PURCHASED FROM

SCHOOLBELLE’S7763 South Harlem in Bridgeview, IL 60455

Bridgeview Court Plaza behind Haunted Trails 708-598-8008

SWEATERS, BLOUSES CAN BE PURCHASED FROM EITHER SCHOOLBELLE’S ORAny department store that has a

SCHOOL UNIFORM SECTION THAT CARRIES SAME

STYLE/COLOR.Such as: Wal-Mart, K-Mart, JC Penney, Sears, etc.

BLUE PLAID JUMPER: Jumper must be at the bottom of the knee or below the knee.

BLOUSE: SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE, YELLOW or LIGHT BLUE .The blouse should be buttoned down the front, short or long sleeves, with pointed or Peter Pan collar. NO KNIT TEE-SHIRTS will be allowed.SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE, OR NAVY BLUE turtleneck top may be worn in the winter months in place of the blouse.

SWEATER: SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE or NAVY BLUE (not medium blue) cardigan sweater may be worn over the jumper. NO PATTERN OR STRIPE.

SOCKS: SOLID RED, WHITE, BLACK or NAVY BLUE socks, knee socks, tights or leg warmers (no patterns).

SCHOOL SHOES: School shoes and/or (WHITE ONLY) athletic shoes. No hightops or accessories, including lights, colored laces, etc.

GYM SHOES: PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN ONLY-VELCRO STRAP CLOSUREPREFERRED. No accessories, including lights. NO COSMETICS AL- LOWED.

PE UNIFORM: Kindergarten through 4th grade - navy blue shorts (to be worn under jumper) and gym shoes.

STUDENTS WHO VIOLATE THE DRESS CODE WILL RECEIVE A WARNING THE FIRST TIME (WITH A GIVEN TIME TO COMPLY). SECOND OFFENSE THEY WILL MISS THEIR BREAK (WITH A GIVEN TIME TO COMPLY). THIRD



OFFENSE WILL RESULT IN A COMMUNICATION REPORT OR DEMERIT AND A TRIP TO THE ADMINISTRATOR'S OFFICE.

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GIRLS-BASIC UNIFORM 5th - 8TH GRADE

SKIRT & VESTMUST BE PURCHASED FROM

SCHOOLBELLE’S7763 South Harlem in Bridgeview, IL 60455

Bridgeview Court Plaza behind Haunted Trails 708-598-8008

SWEATERS, BLOUSES CAN BE PURCHASED FROM EITHER SCHOOLBELLE’S ORAny department store that has a

SCHOOL UNIFORM SECTION THAT CARRIES SAME

STYLE/COLOR.Such as: Wal-Mart, K-Mart, JC Penney, Sears, etc.

SKIRT & VEST: **BLUE PLAID SKIRT AND SOLID VEST** Skirt must be BELOWthe bottom of the knee when sitting or standing.

BLOUSE: SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE, YELLOW, or LIGHT BLUE ox-ford button down, pointed or Peter Pan round collar. Only the first button of the blouse may be unbuttoned. Polo style tee-shirts will not be allowed

CARDIGAN SWEATER: SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE or NAVY BLUE. No pattern orstripe.

SOCKS: RED, WHITE, NAVY BLUE (not medium blue) or BLACK knee socks, tights, nylons or leg warmers (no patterns). **Hosiery must be worn **

SCHOOL SHOES: School shoes and/or (WHITE ONLY) athletic shoes. No hightops or accessories, including lights, colored laces, etc.

PE UNIFORM: Navy or gray sweats, navy shorts, HCA, gym shirt, gym shoes. Gym shirts & shorts must be purchased from the school office.

Cosmetics and jewelry should be worn in moderation. No more than two earrings per ear. No long hanging earrings. Body piercing of any type will not be allowed. Tattoos will not be allowed. Hair should be neat and clean. Any extreme hair cut or unusual color that draws attention will not be allowed.

Any student who does not comply with the dress code will be asked to leave class. The parent will be called to



bring the proper uniform or take the student home.


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APPENDIX A: Dress Code BOYS-BASIC UNIFORM PRE-KINDERGARTEN & KINDERGARTEN

SLACKS: SOLID NAVY BLUE slacks. Polyester, cotton twill or corduroy.SLACKS MUST BE WORN AT THE WAIST WITH A BELT. NO JEANS OR JEAN-TYPE PANTS.

POLO SHIRTS (KNIT): SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE, YELLOW or LIGHT BLUE POLO. Long or short sleeves. Long sleeve turtleneck shirts (of the same color) may be worn during the winter months.

SWEATER: MUST BE PURCHASED FROM SCHOOLBELLES OR ANY DE- PARTMENT STORE WHICH HAS A SCHOOL UNIFORM SEC- TION . SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE or NAVY BLUE (not me-dium blue) cardigan. NO PATTERN OR STRIPE.

SHOES: GYM SHOES WITH VELCRO STRAP CLOSURE PREFERRED . Noaccessories, including lights, colored laces, etc.

BOYS’ HAIR: Boys must wear a low, traditional hair cut (i.e. even all around, taper, cae- sar, bald fade, low fade, etc.). Extreme hair cuts or styles, including afros longer than ½ high, braids, cornrows, dreadlocks, faux hawks, finger waves, mohawks, hi-top fades, lines/designs or tails will not be allowed. NO LINES or DESIGNS are allowed to be cut in the hair. Any extreme hair cut or color that draws attention will not be allowed. Hair will be in- spected regularly.

PE UNIFORM: Gym shoes with Velcro strap closure.

PLEASE DO NOT WAIT UNTIL A HAIR NOTICE IS SENT HOME BEFORE HAIR IS CUT. HAIR SHOULD BE THE PROPER LENGTH AT ALL TIMES.

STUDENTS WHO VIOLATE THE HAIR OR DRESS CODE WILL RECEIVE A WARNING THE FIRST TIME (WITH A GIVEN TIME TO COMPLY). SECOND OFFENSE THEY WILL MISS THEIR BREAK (WITH A GIVEN TIME TO COMPLY). THIRD OFFENSE THEY WILL BE SENT TO THE ADMINISTRATOR’S OFFICE.

EARRINGS OR BODY PIERCING OF ANY TYPE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO BE WORN IN SCHOOL OR AT ANY SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITY.

CAPS MAY NOT BE WORN IN THE BUILDING.


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BOYS-BASIC UNIFORM 1st – 4th GRADE

SLACKS: SOLID NAVY BLUE dress slacks. Polyester, cotton twill or corduroy.SLACKS MUST BE WORN AT THE WAIST WITH A BELT. NO JEANS OR JEAN-TYPE PANTS.

SHIRT: SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE or LIGHT BLUE (not medium blue or blue jean material) dress shirts (no insignia), long or short sleeves.However, long sleeves must be worn buttoned at the cuff, not rolled up. Shirts must be tucked into the pants.

TIE: SOLID OR STRIPED RED, WHITE OR NAVY BLUE tie.

SWEATER: MUST BE PURCHASED FROM SCHOOLBELLES OR ANY DE- PARTMENT STORE WHICH HAS A SCHOOL UNIFORM SEC- TION . SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE or NAVY BLUE (not me-dium blue) cardigan or pullover sweater. NO PATTERN OR STRIPE. NO SWEATSHIRTS. OUTSIDE COATS OR JACKETS MAY NOT BE WORN IN THE CLASSROOM.

SCHOOL SHOES: School shoes and/or (BLACK ONLY) athletic shoes. No high tops or ac-cessories, including lights, colored laces, etc.

SOCKS: Socks may be solid or print; color to coordinate with the slacks.


PE UNIFORM: Gym shoes only.

IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO LIST EVERY UNACCEPTABLE HAIR STYLE. THUS ANY SITUATION THAT ARISES CONCERNING THE HAIR CODE WHICH IS NOT MENTIONED IN THE HANDBOOK WILL BE HANDLED AP- PROPRIATELY. PLEASE DO NOT WAIT UNTIL A HAIR NOTICE IS SENT HOME BEFORE HAIR IS CUT. HAIR SHOULD BE THE PROPER LENGTH AT ALL TIMES.

EARRINGS OR BODY PIERCING OF ANY TYPE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO BE WORN IN SCHOOL OR AT ANY SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITY. TATTOOS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED. CAPS MAY NOT BE WORN IN THE BUILDING.


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BOYS-BASIC UNIFORM 5th – 8th GRADE

SLACKS: SOLID BLACK or NAVY BLUE dress slacks. Polyester, cotton twill or corduroy. SLACKS MUST BE WORN AT THE WAIST WITH A BELT. NO JEANS OR JEAN-TYPE PANTS.

SHIRT: SOLID BURGUNDY, WHITE or LIGHT BLUE or BLACK dress shirts (no blue jean material or insignia), long or short sleeves. However, long sleeves must be worn buttoned at the cuff, not rolled up. Shirts must be tucked into the pants.

TIE: SOLID OR PRINT. ***No pictures or sayings*** will be allowed on the tie.

SWEATER: MUST BE PURCHASED FROM SCHOOLBELLES OR ANY DE- PARTMENT STORE WHICH HAS A SCHOOL UNIFORM SEC- TION . SOLID RED, BURGUNDY, WHITE, NAVY OR BLACK cardi-gan or pullover sweater. NO PATTERN OR STRIPE. NO SWEAT- SHIRTS. OUTSIDE COATS OR JACKETS MAY NOT BE WORN IN THE CLASSROOM.

SCHOOL SHOES: School shoes and/or (BLACK ONLY) athletic shoes. No high tops or ac-cessories including lights, white or colored laces, white or colored soles, etc.


PE UNIFORM: Navy or gray sweats, navy shorts, HCA gym shirt, gym shoes. Gym shirt and shorts must be purchased in the school office.

IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO LIST EVERY UNACCEPTABLE HAIR STYLE. THUS ANY SITUATION THAT ARISES CONCERNING THE HAIR CODE WHICH IS NOT MENTIONED IN THE HANDBOOK WILL BE HANDLED AP- PROPRIATELY. PLEASE DO NOT WAIT UNTIL A HAIR NOTICE IS SENT HOME BEFORE HAIR IS CUT. HAIR SHOULD BE THE PROPER LENGTH AT ALL TIMES.

EARRINGS OR BODY PIERCING OF ANY TYPE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO BE WORN IN SCHOOL OR AT ANY SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITY. NO BAND-AID OVER THE EAR LOBES WILL BE ALLOWED. TAT- TOOS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED. CAPS MAY NOT BE WORN IN THE BUILDING.

A P P E ND IX B : Sch o ol F o r m s

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PARENT’S/GUARDIAN’S REQUEST FOR SCHOOL PERSONNEL TO DISPENSE PRESCRIPTION/NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION

ILLINOIS STATE LAW requires that all students who need ANY TYPE of medication (PRESCRIPTION or NON- PRESCRIPTION) during the school hours must do the following:

1. ALL medication MUST be accompanied by a WRITTEN PRESCRIPTION from the PHYSICIAN/LICENSED PRESCRIBER no matter the TYPE of medication. Also, this form must be completed by the parent/guardian and returned to the school office.

**NO MEDICATION WILL BE ADMINISTERED WITHOUT BOTH FORMS**

2. Parent/guardian must bring the medication in the original prescription bottle, properly labeled by the pharmacist, physician or manufacturer, to the school office.

3. A parent/guardian or delegated adult must return to school for the unused portion of the medication within ten days or the medication will be disposed of by the school office personnel.

Name of student_ Birth Date Grade_ Teacher

TO BE COMPLETED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN

Illness or condition

Medication(s) to be given (PLEASE BE EXACT):

Specific time(s) to be given:

To be given for the period from

toDate Date

Physician’s name_ Phone #

I hereby authorize my child to take the medication as prescribed above under the supervision of the school office personnel. The law allows any person (not necessarily a nurse) to assist in carrying out a physician’s recommendation, and the school recognizes the de- sirability of responding to the physician’s request. This accommodation on the part of the school is not legally required. Therefore, the persons signing this form are agreeing to hold the school and its personnel FREE from any or all suits which might arise from these arrangements.

Date Parent’s / Guardian’s Signature

I can be reached at the following telephone number(s) in case there is a question or problem:

OR

**PHYSICIAN / LICENSED PRESCRIBER MAY FAX THE WRITTEN ORDER TO THE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR AT: 708-535-1525**

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TARDY POLICYTHE FOLLOWING APPLIES TO UNEXCUSED TARDIES FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR: PRE-K &

KINDERGARTEN –5

1ST THROUGH 8TH GRADE

First three (3) tardies - No penaltyFourth (4) tardy - One (1) hour detention (3rd-8th grade)

- Thirty (30) minute detention (1st & 2nd grade)Fifth (5) tardy - A $10.00 fineSixth (6) tardy - Meeting with the administration and parents

STUDENTS MUST BE PREPARED FOR CLASS TO BEGIN AT 8:30am

ANY STUDENT WITH SEVEN (7) OR MORE TARDIES WILL BE PLACED

ON ATTENDANCE PROBATION.

I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE ABOVE RULES AND AGREE TO ABIDE BY THEM AND TO SUPPORT THE FACULTY AND STAFF IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF THESE RULES.

CHILD’S NAME PARENT SIGNATURE

DATE PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN ON THE NEXT

SCHOOL DAY.

*First three (3) tardies - No penalty *Upon the sixth (6) tardy a conference with theAdministrator will be required.

*Fourth (4) tardy and up - $10.00 fine

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PLANNED ABSENCE FORMTHIS FORM MUST BE TURNED IN ONE (1)

WEEK PRIOR TO THE ABSENCE

Student’s Name: Grade: _

Date of Absence:

Reason:

Please read the following disclaimer carefully: “When a student is absent because of special situations, the work may be made up, but it will be the responsibility of the student to make up the work in a timely manner. ANY STUDENT LEAVING FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, THREE (3) DAYS OR MORE, WILL BE GIVEN ALL WORK MISSED UPON THEIR RETURN TO SCHOOL. In such case; the school, the teacher or any other staff member will not be responsible for the student’s academic achievement including the course grade.”

Student’s Signature & Date

Parent’s Signature & Date

A

dministrator’s Signature, Comment & Date

APPENDIX B: School Forms

45

CONSENT TO RELEASE STUDENT FROM CLASSROOM

HOMEWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY policy requires parent/s or guardian to have a designated adult pick up their child/children from the classroom at dismissal time each day (3:00pm). Transportation is the sole responsibility of the parent/s or guardian.

IT IS NOT THE POLICY OF HOMEWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY TO RELEASE STUDENTS ON THEIR OWN. THE ONLY EXCEPTION BEING: IF THE DESIGNATED ADULT WHO PICKS UP THE STUDENT IS PHYSICALLY LIMITED FROM GOING TO THE CLASSROOM OR, FOR AN EXTENUATING CIR- CUMSTANCE THAT MUST BE APPROVED BY THE ADMINISTRATION.

If a parent/s or guardian wants their child/children to leave the classroom on their own, this Consent to Release must be completed, signed and returned to the school office before the student/s can be released.

I give permission to my son/daughter/children (Parent/s or Guardian Name)

to leave the classroom on their own at 3:00pm to pick up a brother or sister from another classroom to go home/to walk home/other (please explain):

I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE that Homewood Christian Academy is not responsible for my child/ children once he/she/they have left the classroom or the designated pick up area.

Date

Parent/Guardian Signature

Parent/Guardian Signature

46

APPENDIX B: School Forms

WAIVER AND CLASSROOM RELEASE FORM FOR STUDENTS PICKED UP BY BUS/TRANSPORTATION SERVICE

HOMEWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY policy requires parent/s or guardian to have a designated adult pick up their child/children from the classroom at dismissal time each day (3:00pm). Transportation is the sole responsibility of the parent/s or guardian.

IT IS NOT THE POLICY OF HOMEWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY TO RELEASE A STUDENT ON THEIR OWN. THE ONLY EXCEPTION BEING: IF THE DESIGNATED ADULT IS PHYSICALLY LIM- ITED FROM GOING TO THE CLASSROOM TO PICK UP THE STUDENT OR FOR AN EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCE THAT MUST BE APPROVED BY THE ADMINISTRATION.

If a parent/s or guardian wants their child/children to leave the classroom on their own, this Waiver and Release must be completed, signed and returned to the school office before the student/students can be released.

I give permission to my son/daughter/children (Parent/s or Guardian Name)

to leave the classroom on their own at 3:00pm and proceed to the designated area to board the bus/van.

Name of Bus/Transportation Service

I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE that Homewood Christian Academy is not responsible for my child/children once he/she/they have left the classroom or if said bus/transportation service fails to pick up the above-mentioned student/students.IT IS ALSO UNDERSTOOD, that Homewood Christian Academy does not provide nor employ any bus/ transportation service for its students and that the above-mentioned bus/transportation service has been contracted solely by the undersigned parent/s or guardian.I FURTHER UNDERSTAND that Homewood Christian Academy is not responsible for determining if a bus/ transportation service has met all mandated state regulations as to insurance, safety standards, etc., and I will not hold HCA or its representatives liable for injuries or accidents sustained when using such bus/transportation services.

Signature Date (Parent/s or Guardian Name)

47

“Even the youth grow tired and weary,

but those who wait on theLord will renew their

strength and will soar on wings like eagles.”

-Isaiah 40:31