Calvary Christian SchoolGood sportsmanship should be displayed by teams, coaches, and audience with respect given to referees and game officials. ... help the child assume, with understanding,

2014-2015 Parent-Student Handbook

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1 CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL. . . . . . Christian Foundation. Academic Excellence.

Our Mission

Calvary Christian School strives to work together with the

Christian family and the local Christian church to equip students with

knowledge, wisdom, and integrity.

Our Purpose

The purpose of CCS is to provide a Christ-centered educational environment that

will:

1. Consist of quality, scholarly instruction, integrated with biblical truth

as it applies to all areas of life and learning.

2. Allow each student to fully develop his God-given potential in all

aspects of life: spiritual, academic, physical, emotional, and social.

3. Afford an opportunity for each student to grow in spiritual awareness,

realizing his need for Christ as Savior and for commitment to His

service.

4. Present a program that meets or exceeds all Illinois requirements that

do not conflict with biblical principles.

5. Calvary Christian School exists to aid Christian parents in their God-

given task of educating their children. It also exists as an evangelistic

arm of Calvary Church.

Core Values

Worship Actively involved in a personal and corporate encounter with God

Grow Commit to ongoing spiritual and relational health

Connect Connect with others and with God

Serve Living a life of service


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CHILDREN ARE A GIFT FROM THE LORD

Children are a gift from the Lord. (Psalm 127:3) God has given our children

to us. He has also given us the responsibility to “bring them up in the training and

instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4) The Old Testament admonishes parents

to teach their children God’s commands and to “teach them diligently.”

(Deuteronomy 6:7)

But the society in which we live makes this job increasingly difficult. In a

world based on humanistic values, Christian parenting becomes a complex task.

Our children are subject to many influences beyond our control.

Not only are these many influences beyond our control, but our time to work

with our children is so short. Our direct influence lasts only 18 years. We also find

that the concluding years are strongly influenced by peers.

In addition, we only get one chance at parenting. Time cannot be recalled

once it is spent. Formal schooling for most children consists of 30 to 35 prime

hours per week spent in schools with humanistic values and principles. Against

this influence they encounter one hour a week in Sunday school.

Our concern in education is not only that student will learn facts and skills,

but their entire system of values, attitudes, beliefs, and character will be shaped for

life under the daily direction of people who share a common commitment to our

Lord Jesus Christ.

The question every parent faces is, “Where can I obtain this kind of

education?”

Calvary Christian School exists for the purpose of helping parents

fulfill their God-given mandate to “bring them up in the training and

instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)


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CODE OF CONDUCT Calvary Christian School asks that parents and school staff behave in a manner that

supports the school’s Christian environment. We strive to make CCS a healthy

place where children can learn, grow, and develop Christian character. To achieve

this goal, we ask all adults to set a model of Christian behavior in both word and

deed. Expectations include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Pray earnestly for Calvary Christian School.

2. Encourage and love one another.

3. Follow safety procedures and courteous driving practices in regards to

transportation of students

4. No threatening of children, employees, or parents.

5. No alcoholic beverages, smoking, or foul language on school grounds,

fields or school-sponsored events.

6. Good sportsmanship should be displayed by teams, coaches, and audience

with respect given to referees and game officials.

7. Handle all confrontation issues appropriately (See Matthew 18 Principle).

8. Respect confidentiality of all students and families.

CALVARYCHRISTIANSCHOOL’S EDUCATIONAL

OBJECTIVES

Spiritual

To lead the child under the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit:

To an experience of being born of the Spirit through personal faith in the Lord

Jesus Christ.

Into a study and personal application of the Bible so that he will be conformed

to the image of Christ Jesus.

To desire to share his spiritual experiences with others.

“Let the Word of God dwell in you richly.”

Mental

To aid in the discovery and development of God-given intellectual abilities and

to recognize the Christian obligation to use them constructively.

To stimulate reasoning, academic investigation, creative and critical thinking.

To impart a command of common knowledge and skills and develop ability to

adapt in a rapidly changing society.

To develop the individual’s mind to its maximum potential without losing the

ability to accept the simplicity of the Scriptures.

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.


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Physical

To develop:

Coordination, grace, poise in movement, muscle tone, balance, endurance and

agility.

Worthy use of leisure time.

Desirable habits in the care of the body.

A respect for the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit. Present your bodies a living sacrifice…unto God.

Social

To foster respect for parents, courtesy and love for the whole family, and to

help the child assume, with understanding, responsibility within the family unit.

To help the child show his responsibility for good sportsmanship, honesty, and

concern for the rights of others by Christ-like involvement in every group to

which he belongs.

To arouse and promote personal responsibility toward home and foreign

missions.

To develop an understanding, appreciation, love and respect for all people.

Emotional

To help the child:

Achieve emotional stability through a personal relationship to the Lord Jesus

Christ.

Develop positive attitudes toward situations and people.

To recognize the Christ controlled personality as the source of true happiness.


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STATEMENT OF FAITH

1. We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative

Word of God.

2. We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father,

Son and Holy Spirit.

3. We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His

sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious death and the atonement

through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His Ascension to the

right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory.

4. We believe that regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential for

the salvation of lost and sinful man. We believe in the present ministry of

the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly

life.

5. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are

saved unto the resurrection of life and they that are lost unto the resurrection

of damnation.

6. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

Calvary Christian School admits students of any sex, race, color, nationality and

ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded

or made available to CCS Students. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex,

race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of educational policies,

admissions procedures, and athletic or other school-administered programs. We do

reserve the right to deny admission to any individual who we feel will not benefit

from our educational program based on past academic achievement. We also

reserve the right to deny admission to a student whose life style is not in harmony

with the stated philosophy and purpose of Calvary Christian School.

DOCUMENTATION

All students are required to have a current immunization record (or religious

objection letter), a current dental record, a copy of their birth certificate, and any

previous school records. Students who have court orders governing their

guardianship should also have a copy of the court order on file with the school for

security purposes.


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SCHOOL GUIDELINES

Absences Regular and consistent school attendance is important to academic success.

Sometimes absence is unavoidable, but it is difficult to reproduce the impact of a

lesson presentation once a student has missed it. A student will be marked absent

for one half day if the student is out of school for more than 1.5 hours but less than

4 hours; the student will be marked absent for a full day if the student is out of

school for more than 4 hours. Each day a student is absent from school, a parent is

required to call the school office before 10:00 a.m. to report the reason for the

absence. Students arriving after 9:10 a.m. must sign in at the school office and

will be recorded as ½ day absent.

Excessive Absences

Any student exceeding 18 absences in a semester or 32 absences for the

school year may not be allowed to re-enroll for the next school year.

Students enrolled in sixth through eighth grades will not be promoted to the

next grade if he/she exceeds 18 absences in a semester or 32 absences for

the school year. A student with a medical condition that is physician

documented could be exempted from this policy.

Excused Absences/Tardiness The main reasons for excused absences or late arrivals include: personal

illness, medical appointments, pre-approved family trips, family

emergencies, or death in the family. If the absence is more than 5 days due

to a serious illness or contagious disease, a note from a physician is required

for re-admission to school. Otherwise, a note is required from the parent

for re-admission. Students absent because of illness will have 2 days to

make up work for each day missed. Since all class work must be made up,

please try to arrange for professional appointments (doctor, dentist, etc.)

outside of school hours. Recurring tardiness often negatively impacts the

classroom with interruptions or delaying the start of instruction. There will

be grade level consequences for recurring tardiness. Note: Excused

absences may affect the Perfect Attendance award.

Unexcused Absences

Unexcused absences are all absences except those listed with excused

absences. All missed assignments must be completed, but will be

considered late and scored accordingly. Three or more unexcused absences

per semester will result in a parent-teacher or parent-principal conference

and possible suspension.


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Vacations

We strongly urge parents to plan family vacations during scheduled school

breaks. Although written work can be made up, students lose the benefit of

classroom instruction. If the absence is unavoidable, we ask that the

following procedures be followed:

A. A parent should call or send a note to verify the request. A list of daily

assignments will be prepared for the student. Junior high students will

receive a “Pre-Arranged Absence Form.” These assignments will be

due on the first day back in school. Remember when a parent removes

a child for vacation, the responsibility of schoolwork done on these days

becomes the parents’. Students missing school at the end of a quarter

should turn work in before they leave. Any work turned in after the

quarter break will receive an incomplete until work is turned in and

graded.

B. Quizzes and tests that were missed will be made up at the rate of two

per day upon returning to school. Junior high student tests cannot be

taken at home.

Accidents/Illnesses All accidents that occur during the school day or on any school sponsored trips

should be reported to the office immediately. Minor injuries will be treated in the

office. Students with serious injuries will be taken immediately to emergency care,

and parents will be notified by phone. If a student should become ill during the

school day, he/she should report to the school office. Parents will be notified and

a determination will be made concerning whether the student should remain at

school or be taken home. The school does not employ a school nurse, and in the

event of a sudden severe illness or seizure, the emergency card instructions will be

followed for transporting the student to hospital. It is the parents’ responsibility to

ensure that the office has on file an emergency telephone number where a parent,

relative, or neighbor may be reached in case of emergency. Parents will be required

to sign an "emergency medical treatment authorization" form prior to the first day

of classes. It is the parents’ responsibility to ensure that each child is covered by

medical insurance. CCS does not carry accident insurance on students.

Accreditation Calvary Christian School is fully accredited for grades K-8 by AdvancED,

Association of Christian Teachers and Schools and the National Council for Private

School Accreditation.


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Admissions Policies The following policies are guidelines (prayerfully composed) to insure success at

Calvary Christian School. There may be an exception to these policies if the

principal and team leaders and/or Senior Pastor of Calvary Church agree to such an

exception. Because CCS is a private Christian school, incoming students need to

have parents that are committed to Christian education at CCS. We request that

parents indicate evidence that they will be faithful in the following areas: help and

encourage academic success, participate willingly in school functions, support the

discipline policies, and display financial responsibility. Parents must also agree to

give the school full discretion in the discipline of their children within the

guidelines of the promulgated discipline policy. They must give the school full

discretion for the grade placement of their children. Parents are required to read,

agree with, and perform in accordance with the Parent’s Code.

Students must show readiness to perform at our expected level. Incoming

kindergartners must take a readiness test and be five (5) years old on or before

September 1 of the year entering CCS. Students entering first grade should have

reached the age of six (6) on or before September 1. In order to approve early

entrance to first grade, CCS requires completion of a kindergarten program and an

official letter from the school where the child attends kindergarten. The letter must

state that the child has successfully completed kindergarten and must review

progress in language arts, mathematics, social emotional development and fine

motor development. The student will also be tested to show adequate progress to

begin our first grade program. Students at other grade levels must show

performance at the 4th stanine or above in both math and reading on a standardized

test of achievement. We will provide a placement test if a standardized test has not

been administered in the past year.

CCS uses the phonetic approach to reading in grades 1 and 2. Incoming students

in these grades must show evidence of grade level mastery of these skills.

New students will not usually be enrolled after the school year has begun. The

curriculum and sequence of each school is different, and it is usually not in the best

interests of the student or the classroom to have a student change schools once the

school year has begun. If a family is relocating from another area and a change of

schools is necessary, an exception can be made if there is space in the classroom.

Because CCS believes all families should take care of legal and moral obligations,

CCS will not accept students whose families owe money to past private schools,

private tutors or tutoring centers, preschools or daycare centers.

CCS is state approved and believes in following the law of the land. Students in

kindergarten and grade 5 must be examined by the family physician before classes

begin and present the physical report before school begins.

Because CCS strives to foster a Christian atmosphere, CCS does not accept students

who have been suspended or expelled unless such suspension or expulsion was

caused by a stand for his faith.

CCS believes that all individuals are created in God's image and are to be respected

as God intended, the school does not discriminate on the basis of national origin,

race or gender in the administration of its admission policies.


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Assemblies and Programs Special assemblies and programs will be conducted from time to time during the

school year. Each student will be expected to attend and behave in the proper

manner at these functions. In some instances, grades for a particular class may

depend on a student’s attendance at these assemblies or programs. All music

students are expected to attend Christmas and Spring Concerts.

Association of Christian Schools International

Association of Christian Teachers and Schools CCS is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and

the Association of Christian Teachers and Schools (ACTS). They offer Christian

schools valuable advice and assistance as well as extra-curricular activities.

Illinois Coalition of Non-public Schools

CCS is also a member of the Illinois Coalition of Non-public schools. ICNS

is a coalition of non-public educational groups that exists to support quality

education for all children in the state of Illinois. CCS is also registered with

the Illinois State Board of Education. All initial programs are being

designed to meet accreditation standards.

Band Band is offered to students in grades 4-8. Students have one small group session

per week and one ensemble rehearsal per week. Students receive a grade in band

that is based on participation, daily practice, conduct, and attendance for

rehearsals and concerts. Students are required to keep track of daily practice

through a practice chart.

Before/After School Routine Supervisors will be on duty from 8:00-8:20 a.m. and 3:10-3:30 p.m. The school

cannot be responsible for students before 8:00 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. Elementary

students who have not been picked up by 3:30 will be taken to the office and

supervised until their ride comes. You will be charged a late fee of $5 per family

for the first fifteen minutes plus $10 every 15 minutes thereafter. If someone other

than the parent or guardian is picking a student up, the school must have permission

from the parent or guardian.

A.M. Arrival of Students

Parents are asked to observe school traffic rules at all times. (See Parking

Procedures.)

Students should be brought to the south entrance (door #9) of the school,

and can begin arriving as early as 8 a.m. Junior High students (6-8) arriving

between 8:00-8:20 a.m. will report to room #304.

Elementary students (K-5) are to report to the library. All students arriving

between 8:20-8:30 will go directly to their classroom.


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At 8:20 a.m. you may walk your student to the classroom, but please say

your good-byes outside the classroom door. We want to begin our school

day efficiently and with the least amount of distraction. Please allow

teachers to begin the school day promptly when the 8:30 bell rings.

Students not in their classrooms by 8:30 a.m. will be considered tardy. Plan

on having your child(ren) arrive at school by 8:20 a.m. in order to meet this

deadline. If you need to speak with your student’s teacher, please schedule

a meeting. The morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times are busy

times for our staff, and they often have supervision responsibilities during

those times.

Child Care Services

Calvary Children's Center is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m.

until 6:15 p.m. Services are available for before school and after school

care for students in grades K-5. For further information about these

services, please contact Calvary Children's Center at 630-375-8700.

Late Arrivals

Jr. High students arriving after 8:30 a.m. must stop at the office for a hall

pass. (You will not be admitted to class unless you have a pass.) Elementary

students arriving after 8:30 a.m. may go directly to their classroom. All

students arriving after 9:10 a.m. must be signed in at the office. A half-day

absence will be given for students arriving after 9:10 a.m. Each student is

allowed two tardies for any reason during a quarter. A third tardy will result

in an administrative detention for Jr. high students and a consequence for

elementary students. Students having more than three unexcused tardies

per semester will not be eligible for the Perfect Attendance Award.

Note: Tardies may be waived by the administration for inclement weather,

doctor and dental appointments, etc.

Parking Procedures – A.M.

When dropping off children in the morning, parents should follow this

procedure:

A. Drive in the south entrance, enter the drop-off circle and come through

the drive through in a counterclockwise direction. Parents may not

leave their car parked along this curb because this is a fire lane

B. If you wish to come into the building with your students, you may park

in the lots on the southeast or southwest side of the building.

C. Walk with your students to the school office entrance. Please cross the

driving land at the center crosswalk.

Parking Procedures – P.M.

When picking up children in the afternoon, parents should follow this

procedure:

A. Drive in the south entrance, enter the drop-off circle, and pull up to the

curb to wait for your children.


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B. Do not double-park along the curb so children have to cross traffic to

reach you.

C. If you wish to come into the building to pick up your students, you may

park in the lots on the southeast or southwest side of the building. Walk

to the main entrance and walk them back to your car.

Birthday Treats Due to food allergies, you may not bring in treats for your child’s birthday.

Bullying Calvary Christian School believes that all students are entitled to a safe and

harassment-free school experience. “Bullying” means systematically and regularly

inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students. Teaching

staff and administration will determine whether an action or incident constitutes

bullying based on the facts and surrounding circumstances.

Consequences and interventions for students who commit acts of bullying would

be based on grade level and the severity of the offense and may range from

behavioral interventions to school suspension.

Bus Bussing is available through Indian Prairie District 204. If you or your childcare

provider resides in this district, your student is eligible for bussing. Bussing is only

offered after school, not in the morning.

Note: Due to insurance issues, no student will be allowed on a public school bus

unless they are a regularly scheduled bus rider.

Carpools

Parents are responsible for forming carpools to transport children to and from

school if they do not receive bus service from Indian Prairie District #204. The

office will send home a school directory at the beginning of the school year. The

school cannot be responsible for the safety of a child in any carpool. Please be sure

that the driver is adequately covered with insurance. All students are to be dropped

off on school property and are not to leave the school until picked up by parents or

their carpool in the afternoon.

Cell Phones- see Electronic Equipment

Deliveries When school is in session, any deliveries for your child (i.e. lunch, homework,

medication, messages) will be taken care of and delivered by the office staff at an

appropriate time.


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Discipline/General Student Conduct

Calvary extends the privilege of attendance to students who are willing to grow and

respond through discipline and to families who are willing to cooperate closely with

Calvary in this process. If the student or family is unwilling to work with Calvary,

the right to expel the student or deny re-enrollment is reserved for the benefit of

those who are cooperating and growing.

In II Timothy 3:16-17, discipline consists of three important steps: to Instruct,

Warn, and Correct. It is our desire to work closely with the parents in fulfilling all

three steps, not only correction or punishment. Therefore, we have set up the

following discipline system designed to instruct, warn, and then correct a child who

is not conforming to behavioral expectations. We have designed the system to

integrate the parents when appropriate.

Discipline procedures for grades K-5

Instruction will first take place in the form of classroom rules. The teacher

will set grade appropriate rules intended to instruct the child in proper

behavior. Some classroom "rules" will not be written, but will be explained

(through instruction) when a problem arises.

While procedures for monitoring occurrences of misbehavior will vary from

class to class, the following is a guideline for how to handle misbehavior on

a daily basis.

First Occurrence: The student is given a visual warning (name on board,

green light down, etc.).

Second Occurrence: The student will receive a visual indication (check,

yellow light down, etc.) and a silent lunch with a discipline report to be

signed by parents.

Third Occurrence: The student will receive the consequences listed under

first and second occurrence. In addition, the student will lose 1/2 of the next

recess period.

Fourth Occurrence: The student will receive all the consequences listed

above, lose the entire recess, and receive a call at home from the teacher.

Fifth Occurrence: Added to the above, the child will receive a detention

and be sent to the principal's office.

Major Infractions

Student is sent to the office and given a detention or suspension for the

following reasons:

Fighting or hurting another student

Open defiance/rebellion

Suspensions

The suspension will be served the next day, and will result in the

following consequences:


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1st Suspension- In-school suspension.

2nd Suspension- Consequences from 1st time plus an out-of-school

suspension with a parent-teacher-principal meeting before the child is

allowed back to school. The student will be placed on probation with terms

spelled out for teacher, student and parent.

3rd Suspension- The student will be sent home. Expulsion is likely.

Student will not be allowed to return to school without permission from the

principal and/or the Pastor in charge of CCS.

Academic Probation Grades 5-8 (Eligibility for extracurricular activities

such as sports, play, study hall electives, etc.)

If a student has two D’s or one F at the end of a quarter, there is an

automatic two weeks suspension from the activity. All grades must

be at 70% (C-) or higher to return to the activity.

If a student has two D’s or one F at any grade report (printed

weekly), they will have two weeks to raise those grades to 70%. If

grades are not raised, they will be out of the activity for two weeks.

All grades must be at 70% or higher to return.

If a student has more than two D’s or more than one F they will be

immediately out of the activity for two weeks. All grades must be

at a 70% or higher to return.

Grades will be checked every Monday with eligibility announced

every Tuesday.

No student may participate in extracurricular activities if they have

been in school less than half a day.

No student with 5 detentions in a quarter or any suspensions in the

quarter will be eligible to participate that quarter.

Academic Promotion

A student not meeting a minimum level of performance during the school

year will be subject to review and possible dismissal. To be promoted, the

student must have:

a yearly passing grade in at least five of the six major subjects (math,

reading, English, Bible, science, and social studies).

a cumulative grade point average of 1.0 (D).

Discipline Procedures for 6-8 Grades

Both Junior High and individual classroom rules will be set in place the first

day of school. Teachers who teach students for multiple periods will be

given the option of having the classroom consequences be cumulative for

the day.

1. Student is given a demerit for the following reasons:

Talking after warning

Breaking the uniform code

Inappropriate behavior or language


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Personal display of affection (Disciplinary action may be escalated

due to extent of display or continued violation.)

Unacceptable electronics devices in class (see Electronic devices)

Throwing/shooting things, making mess in hallway or classroom

2. Student is given a detention for the following reasons:

Disrespect for teachers or other students

Pushing or rough play with another student

Minor damage to property

Gum chewing

Unexcused tardiness 3x in a quarter

Three demerits in one week

Vulgar, profane, or obscene language

Off-limits area of building

Violation of student honesty policy (1st offense)

Violation of computer acceptable use policy

3. Student is given a suspension for the following reasons:

Fighting or hurting another student

Open defiance/rebellion

Vandalism to building or property

Five detentions in one quarter

Major violation of computer acceptable use

4. Student will receive an automatic recommendation for expulsion and be

responsible for the cost of repair:

Major damage to school or others’ property

Possession of a weapon or threat to harm with a weapon

Use or distribution or controlled substances (alcohol, drugs,

tobacco)

Detentions

In grades 6 through 8, students who disobey the rules and regulations of

Calvary Christian School may be given a detention. All detentions will be

served after school on the designated day from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Parents

will always be notified at least one day in advance and will be responsible

for picking up their children from detentions promptly at 4:30 p.m. Parents

are required to cooperate in this important aspect of our discipline structure.

Detentions must be served within two weeks from the date issued.

Extracurricular activities will not supersede a detention. If you cannot

personally pick up your child at 4:15 p.m., please make arrangements for a

friend or relative to pick them up.


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Suspensions

The suspension will be served the next day, and will result in the

following consequences:

1st Suspension – In-school suspension

2nd Suspension- Consequences from first time plus an out-of-school

suspension with a parent-teacher-principal meeting before the child is

allowed back to school. The student will be placed on probation with

terms spelled out for teacher, student and parent.

3rd Suspension- The student will be sent home. Expulsion is likely.

Student will not be allowed to return to school without permission from

the principal and/or the Pastor in charge of CCS.

Teachers and Administration have discretion and may choose to

alter procedures due to the individual nature of a given problem.

Tardies to class - The first and second tardy during a nine-week period will

result in a warning. A third tardy will mean an Administrative detention.

Dress Code and Appearance Expectations

CCS believes that appropriate attire encourages good student conduct and is

fundamental to the development of wholesome attitudes and behavior. Students

are expected to wear clothes that are neat and clean. We encourage modesty in dress

as set forth in Scripture. The dress standards that follow are intended to express

these biblical standards and principles. Parents are responsible to see that their

children are dressed properly when they leave for school.

Lands’ End donates 5% or your purchase from the school uniform catalog back to Calvary Christian

School.

Our school preference number is #9000-6673-9.

The school logo is available to be embroidered on any Lands’ End product.

Our school logo number is #1264907K.

Please refer to the Lands’ End school catalog for examples of styles.

Shirts for girls and boys:

All shirts must have collars. ONE solid color- navy, red, light blue, and

white. NO accent colors.

Collared shirts with buttons all the way down or polo style. ONE solid

color- navy, red, light blue, and white. NO accent colors or striping.

Turtlenecks/mock turtlenecks are acceptable as long as collar is at least 1½

inches high. One solid color-navy, red, light blue, white. NO accent colors

or striping.

Must be loose-fitting and buttoned to within one button from the top. No

pictures or words allowed, except the CCS logo, which is optional.

Brand logos are only acceptable if smaller than a quarter

Short sleeved, ¾-length and long sleeves are acceptable.


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Pants for girls and boys:

Khaki style (twill or corduroy fabric are acceptable, knit fabric are not

acceptable)

Twill dress-Capris are acceptable for girls

No painters’ pants, baggies, carpenter loops, or denim

Khaki (tan) or navy colored only

Pants with holes, patches, or frayed leg bottoms may not be worn.

No accent colors or striping or decorative embellishments (including, but

not limited to: patches, netting, jewels, or fringe.)

Pants must be worn at the waist and waistbands may not be turned over.

No pants or wallet chains will be allowed.

Sweaters and Vests:

No sweatshirts of any variety

Sweaters and vests may have zippers

Polar fleece may be worn in place of a sweater or vest

Solid blue, tan, red, or white. No pictures or words; CCS logo optional.

Brand logos are only acceptable if smaller than a quarter.

A uniform shirt, with uniform school colors, must be worn under any style

sweater.

Jumpers, Skorts, Shorts and Skirts

Solid khaki or navy blue only. No accent colors or striping. No decorative

embellishments.

Items must be hemmed without frayed bottoms. Hem must be no more than

4 inches above the center of the kneecap, and waistbands may not be turned

over.

Girls Hair/Makeup/Jewelry

The school discourages the use of makeup during junior high years, but this

decision is left to the discretion of the parents. Makeup may not be worn until

6th grade. At grade six, parents must monitor their daughter’s use of makeup.

Makeup that is excessive or distracting will not be tolerated. Makeup may not

be applied at school.

Jewelry must be modest and may not be distracting. Large earrings or more

than 2 earrings per ear are not allowed in school.

Piercing of any area other than ears is not allowed.

Unnatural hair colors or extreme designs are not acceptable. Hair may not

hang into the eyes.

No tattoos are allowed

Boys

Hair must be above the eyebrows and shirt collar. At least ½ of the ear must

be exposed and hair should be neatly trimmed and well groomed. Extremes

in hairstyle including unnatural colors and spiking are not acceptable.


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Hats or caps may not be worn in school.

Body piercing, earrings, nail color, tattoos, or brands are not allowed for

boys. Earrings must be removed and existing tattoos or brands must be

covered throughout the school day and whenever representing the school at

functions or activities.

Head Covering/Sunglasses

No hat, cap, bandanas, etc. may be worn in the building. (Medical exception

allowed)

No sunglasses may be worn in the building during school hours.

Shoes and Athletic Shoes

No inappropriate words or connotations on footwear.

Shoelaces must be tied

No sandals, flip-flops, or shoes with wheels

Lace-up athletic shoes must be worn for P.E.

The dress code at CCS is to be observed each day during the school year, for

all school programs and performances outside school, field trips, etc., unless the

school has informed parents otherwise.

The school reserves the right to make a final decision on all dress code matters

including clothing and hair. If clothing appears to conform to the dress code,

but is found unsuitable by the administration, the student will be requested to

no longer wear such clothing.

If your child is not within the dress code, a note will be sent home with a

reminder to comply with dress code requirements.

Drugs, Tobacco, and Alcohol Students enrolled at CCS are expected to abstain from the use of tobacco, illegal

drugs, and alcohol — both on and off school property. Should school authorities

determine that a student has disobeyed this rule, severe disciplinary action will be

taken with expulsion likely.

Early Dismissal The school encourages parents to schedule medical and dental appointments after

school hours. However, if an early dismissal is needed, please inform the office

and your student’s teacher. Advance notice is required. If someone other than a

parent or legal guardian is picking up a student, the school requires written or verbal

permission from the parent or guardian. The person picking up the student may be

asked to supply identification if the office staff does not know the person.

Your student will be brought to the office at the time you requested. Please

remember to sign your child out on the clipboard in the office.


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Electronic Equipment Audio or video equipment is not to be in use during the school day. Any student

violating this will have the item taken away, and his/her parents will have to pick it

up in the office.

It is against school policy for students to have music players, laser pointers, cellular

phones or pagers in their possession during school. If seen, they will be confiscated.

If the phone is being used during the school day without permission, it will be

confiscated and returned only to a parent.

Emergency Closing of School During inclement weather, school will be called off automatically when the Indian

Prairie school system closes its schools. Check the Emergency Closing Center by

telephone at 312-222-SNOW or www.EmergencyClosings.com. We will also

place a phone call on the telephone broadcast system, post a school closing notice

on our school website and on our Sycamore site. You can hear emergency closing

information by tuning into these stations: WMAQ (670 a.m.), WGN (720 a.m.), or

WBBM (78 a.m.). TV: Channel 2 (CBS), Channel 9 (WGN), (Channel 3 or 32) Fox

Network, or CLTV.

Extra-Curricular Activities All students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities, but they do

not supersede the importance of academics. Students must be present at school by

the beginning of sixth period on the day of an extracurricular activity in order to be

eligible to participate in the activity that day or evening. Please see Academic

Probation.

Students attending or participating in an after-school event must be in the

performance area (gymnasium or soccer field) or with their coach. The classroom

area of the school will be closed after school.

Finances 1. Tuition payments are due in advance. Yearly and semi-annual payments

are made to the school. Monthly payments may only be made through

FACTS, a tuition management company. If paid monthly, payment is due

to FACTS on the fifth or twentieth day of each month, August through May.

If paid yearly, the payment is due on or before the first day of school. If

paid semi-annually, payments are due on or before the first day of school

and the first day of the second semester. A 3% discount applies if CCS

receives payments on or before August 5 and January 5. The registration

fee is used to hold a place in class and is nonrefundable.

2. Should financial difficulties arise that would preclude payment by the

10th of the month, it is the obligation of the parents to contact the

principal to: 1) explain the reason and 2) make suitable arrangement with

the principal for payment as soon as possible. The school may terminate its

relationship with families that are three months behind in their payments.

No parent should enroll or re-enroll children in school unless they intend to

discharge all school obligations in full.

http://www.emergencyclosings.com/


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No children of parents owing overdue tuition will be readmitted to CCS the

following semester unless the parents make suitable arrangements with the

principal concerning the payment of the overdue amount.

Continued failure to meet the above stated obligations or agreements with

the principal ON TIME will result in school action to consider refusal of

enrollment for subsequent semesters whether or not the bill is paid in full.

When a student is voluntarily withdrawn from the school for any reason,

tuition must be paid in full for the entire month in which the student is

leaving. If one month’s notice was not given, CCS reserves the right to

charge an additional month’s tuition. Registration fees are

nonrefundable.

If a student is expelled or withdrawn at the recommendation of the school,

tuition will be due on the basis of 1/176th of the annual rate for each day of

attendance.

The school considers that all unpaid tuition accounts from past years are

still due to CCS. Careful records are kept and parents may determine the

status of their account by inquiry at the school office.

Fire Drills Monthly practice fire drills will be held each year. When the signal is given,

students should:

1. Stop classroom activity and leave personal items.

2. Exit quickly, single file, and in an orderly fashion following the exit

procedure outlined in a map displayed on the wall near the door.

3. Teachers should be the last persons to leave the room after making

sure all students have left and that windows and doors are closed.

4. Students and faculty should exit the building and go to the marked

waiting area.

5. Students should take roll call when students are in line.

6. Should any class or student be in another part of the building when

the alarm sounds, they should leave the building by the nearest exit

and rejoin their class when they are outside and clear of the building.

Grading Scale Calvary Christian School uses the following grading system:

Gum, Candy, and Food

Students are to leave chewing gum at home since they will not be chewing it at

school. Students found chewing gum will be subject to disciplinary action. Food

may be eaten only in the cafeteria during the lunch period. No food except the

student’s daily lunch may be kept in the school locker.

100-98=A+ 89-88=B+ 79-78=C+ 69-68=D+

97-92=A 87-82=B 77-72=C 67-62=D

91-90=A- 81-80=B- 71-70=C- 61-60=D-

59 or below=F


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Homework Homework is given for reinforcement (practice to help remember) of skills and

concepts learned in the classroom. CCS believes that homework is an important

part of the learning experience. Many skills must be practiced and used in order

for children to master skills. CCS also believes that parents are an important part of

their children's lives and learning experience. However, we also understand that a

child needs to be a child, not dominated by 6 hours of school and hours of

homework. Therefore, CCS strives to use the homework time period in a most

efficient way-to both involve the parents and to help a child be a successful student.

The week's homework assignments will be reported on Monday in the class Parent

Page or on Sycamore.

The following guidelines are set with the family in mind:

Policy for Grades 1-5

A. No homework will usually be given:

1. Over holiday vacations

2. On Wednesday nights due to church activities

3. On nights of special programs or events (i.e. music

concerts, plays, etc.)

B. Up to 30 minutes of homework assignments for grades 1-4 and up

to 45 minutes of homework for grade 5 may be given on each

homework night.

C. In addition, on Mondays and Thursdays 5 minutes of Math facts

drills* may be given; on Tuesdays and Fridays 5-10 minutes of

Spelling Journals* may be given. (First grade may differ slightly)

D. On Thursday, parents are to grade their children's Bible Memory

Verse. *

E. Special projects may be given as homework with adequate notice.

F. Some children who do not finish school assignments will be

required to complete these assignments at home in addition to

homework. Some children may receive remedial work as

homework.

*Parents will receive suggestions on how to monitor and help with these

assignments.

Policy for Grades 6-8

A. Homework will not be routinely given:

1. Over holiday vacations

2. On Wednesday nights due to church activities

3. On nights of special CCS programs or events (i.e. music

concerts)

B. Homework should be completed by the "average" child in 60 to 75

minutes. (Some special projects may require more time

immediately preceding the deadline due to a child's inability to plan

his time properly.)


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C. For all special homework projects, a written explanation will be

given to children and parents with the following information on it:

1. The purpose of the assignment

2. Requirements of the assignment

3. Due dates

4. How the project will be graded

D. Internet Postings

1. Students are responsible for improper web postings or

harassment done on the internet.

2. Improper use of sites or communication will result in

discipline at school, a meeting with parents, and possible

involvement with the local police.

E. Late Work

Grades will be posted on Mondays. Students have until the following

Friday to turn in late work for ½ credit.

Honor Rolls

The honor roll is for students in grades 4-8.

Students with a grade point average of 3.0 to 3.66 (on a 4.0 scale) will be

named on the honor roll.

Students with a grade point average of 3.67 to 4.0 will be named on the high

honor roll.

Grade point averages will be based on academic subjects and will not

include art, physical education, music, or band.

Students who achieve the honor roll will be recognized each quarter. Those

who are on the honor roll three of four quarters will received special

recognition at the annual Honors program.

Students who received a grade of “D” or “F” on their report card will not be

eligible for the honor roll.

Library

CCS’s library is fully equipped with a growing selection of fiction, nonfiction, easy

reading, and reference volumes. Students in grades K-5 visit the library once a week

for a special story and to check-out books. Charges may be assessed for lost books.

Lockers

Students in grades 6-8 will be assigned a locker at the beginning of the year. It is

the student’s responsibility to keep their locker clean and neat at all times. The

Administration reserves the right to search student lockers or materials contained

in the lockers at any time. Offensive or inappropriate materials may not be

displayed inside or outside lockers. CCS cannot be responsible for items left in

lockers. Backpacks or book bags must be kept in lockers. They will not be allowed

in class.


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Lost and Found Lost and Found containers will be maintained in the junior high and elementary

areas. The school assumes no responsibility for lost items. Any student who loses

books or equipment will be required to replace them. Please make sure all personal

items are properly labeled.

Matthew 18- Solving Differences at School No matter how hard we try, sooner or later we will have a difference in opinion with our

children’s teachers, school staff or with other school parents. Handling such concerns can

often be uncomfortable. Satan desires to cut off communication between those who love

the Lord and delights in getting people to spread slander and gossip. Fortunately, God has

given us a prescription for handling differences. It is found in Matthew 18:15,16.

If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just

between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your

brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others

along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony

of two or three witnesses.

Notice the first step is to tell the individual “between the two of you” Often we are too

willing to talk about this brother or sister’s offense with everyone else! Yet, God

commands us to go to them and only them. Usually, that is all it takes to resolve the

offense. However, at times we will need to take a further step.

This further step involves going to one in authority and going with them to talk with the

individual who offended you. Again, we are not to go to those who have no authority.

They are not part of the problem or part of the solution. Actually, when we tell others

besides the authority, they will then take up the offense. Now instead of dealing with one

offended person, the authority is dealing with two!

There are some common pitfalls in helping sort out offenses. First, remember that we all

view events in an emotional way. We think others should see an event from our

perspective, but they often do not. How many times have people come to us about

something that we never saw how we offended them? Remember that others will not see

it how we do.

Another common pitfall is relying on second-hand information. Remember that children

are not always accurate in what they relay to us. They are too emotional and often get

feelings and facts mixed up. Another problem in dealing with our children has to do with

developmental stages they go through. Just when we think we have our children figured

out they surprise us. We teach them to be honest as a toddler. When the little ones lie they

send obvious signals. We learn to look for these signals. Then when they get into the

young elementary grades they learn to get rid of those nervous habits. We assume they

are telling the truth because the obvious signals are gone. As they get into the older

elementary and junior high years, they need to know you will check their information.

The last pitfall has to do with us. We all come with different experiences, views,

expectations and spiritual maturity. These differences can cause problems, which prevent

us from seeing the whole situation clearly. When dealing with offenses we must be


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prayed up and realize the individual who offended us also has many things that they are

dealing with.

Remember that we are all growing in Christ. Each one of us is learning to live according

to God’s Word. Let us not allow the enemy to divide or divert us from this all-important

journey. Following Matthew 18 is a major step in the right direction on this journey!

Medication CCS encourages parents to administer medications before and after school. We

realize that this is not always possible. In accordance with guidelines established

by the State of Illinois, Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, all

medication (prescription and nonprescription) brought to school must be in a

correctly labeled container, accompanied by a note signed by a doctor and a

request to administer the medication signed by a parent or guardian. The doctor’s

note should include the dosage of medicine the child should receive and when it

should be administered. CCS will only dispense the amount of medication and at

the designated times requested in writing by a doctor. All medications will be kept

in and dispensed through the school office. Under no circumstances are children

allowed to keep prescription or nonprescription medication. (Exception: Students

are allowed to keep their inhalers with them.)

Due to the large amount of nonprescription medications now on the market, CCS

can no longer administer nonprescription medications including aspirin, and non-

aspirin type pain relievers. If for medical reasons your child needs to take such

medication, the above procedure must be followed.

Office Area Students should only be in the office area for school business, emergencies or for

illness during school hours. No student is to be in the office during the school day

without permission by a teacher or authorized staff member. Students should never

walk behind the counter in the office without permission.

Parent-Teacher Conferences Parent-teacher conferences will be held in October and as needed during the year.

Conference dates are printed on the school calendar. All parents are required to

meet with each of their children’s teachers at these times as per previously

arranged appointments.

Patriotism/Pledges Patriotism is an inner feeling. For each of us it has a different meaning and each of

us reacts to it differently. We feel that the school should play an important part in

developing patriotism. We expect the students to respect their government and to

feel proud to be an American. We will teach them to respect our country.

At the beginning of every school day, all CCS students will recite the following

pledges:


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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.

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.

Bible - I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s Holy Word; I will make it a

Lamp unto my feet and a Light unto my path; I will hide its words in my

heart that I might not sin against God.

Photographs Color pictures will be taken each fall by a professional photographer and will be

available for parents to purchase. You will be notified of the dates.

Physical Education Requests to excuse a student from physical education should come in writing

from a parent. Any conditions requiring students to be excused more than one

week require a doctor’s note.

Professional Courtesy School families are expected to show professional courtesy to both teachers and

other school families. The school directory is prepared as a convenience for the

staff and school families. It should not be used for any solicitation purposes. Please

respect teachers and professionals by making business calls at the individual's place

of business.

If you leave a message for a teacher to call you, please leave a number where you

can be reached between 3:30-3:45 p.m. If you come to school to meet with a

teacher, please remember that many teachers have duties from 3:10-3:30 p.m. They

may not be able to speak with you until after 3:30 p.m.

Recess

Students in grades K-5 have outdoor recess when the weather permits the activity.

(Wind chill factor of 20 degrees or higher.) Children will be kept inside during

recess time only if the teacher receives a note from a parent explaining the reason.

Please do not ask to excuse your child from outdoor recess unless there is a medical

reason for doing so.

Re-enrollment Students in good standing with CCS and whose tuition is up-to-date will be able to

re-register beginning the first Monday in February with a nonrefundable $125

registration fee deposit. Students not attending CCS, but who have a sibling

attending CCS or CCC, will be allowed to register in February. Open enrollment

begins the first Monday in March.


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Report Cards

The school year is divided into four quarters. Report cards will be mailed

approximately 2 weeks after the quarter ends. All report cards will have the

appropriate grading scale on them.

Safety A child is expected to keep all the safety rules set by the school. Tell your child

to NEVER accept ride from anyone he does not know, even if that person knows

your child’s name. If the child is riding in a carpool, he is not to change carpools

unless he has notified the office. Students are never allowed to throw

snowballs! No water guns, rubber bands, thumbtacks, slingshots, etc. are ever to

be in the possession of a student.

Sexual Harassment CCS is committed to providing and promoting an atmosphere in which employees

and students can realize their full potential in Christ. Toward this end, all

members of the School community (including faculty, staff, and students) must

understand that sexual harassment will not be tolerated, and that they are required

to abide by our policy.

Individuals who believe they are victims are encouraged to: 1) respond to the

alleged harasser directly, requesting that the behavior stop 2) seek assistance or

intervention.

Our policy is available upon request.

Sickness Deciding when to keep your child home from school can be difficult. If a medical

provider makes a specific diagnosis (such as strep throat, conjunctivitis or chicken

pox), let school staff know.

There are three reasons to keep your sick children from school:

1. The child does not feel well enough to participate comfortably in usual

activities, such as with extreme signs of tiredness or fatigue, unexplained

irritability or persistent crying.

2. The child requires more care than the school staff is able to provide

without effecting the health and safety of the other children.

3. The illness is on the list of symptoms or illness for which exclusion is

recommended.

Should your child become sick during the day, the teacher will send them to the office. If

the child appears to have any of the symptoms (listed below) necessitating the child to go

home, the parent will be contacted. You are expected to make arrangements to pick up

your child should we call you for this reason. This is for the safety and comfort of your

child as well as for the safety of other students and faculty. It is the parent’s

responsibility to have a plan to pick up a sick child should this become necessary.

Please do not send your child to school if they are experiencing any of the above

symptoms and/or does not feel well enough to participate in school.


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The following list gives guidelines and recommendations for exclusion from school due

to illness. Children with minor illness need not be excluded unless one or more of the

following exists. ILLNESS OR SYMPTOM SHOULD YOUR CHILD STAY HOME?

Chicken Pox YES - Until blisters have dried and crusted (usually 6 days).

Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

(pink or red eyes with thick

mucous or pus draining from the

eye)

YES – May return 24 hours after treatment begins.

If your medical provider decides not to treat your child, a note is needed.

Coughing

(severe, uncontrolled coughing or

wheezing, rapid or difficulty in

breathing)

YES - Medical attention may be necessary. Note: Children with asthma

may be cared for in school with a written health care plan and

authorization for medication/treatment.

Coxsackie Virus

(Hand, foot and mouth disease)

NO - May attend if able to participate in school activities, unless the

child has mouth sores and is drooling

Diarrhea

(frequent, loose or watery stools

not caused by diet or medication)

YES – Child may return to school 24 hours after last episode of diarrhea.

Fever

YES - when fever is elevated above 99.5 degrees. The child may return

to school 24 hours after temperature returns to normal.

Fifth’s Disease NO - child is no longer contagious once rash illness appears.

Head lice YES - May return after treatment and removal of all live lice and nits

from hair.

Hepatitis A YES – child may return to school 1 week after onset of illness or

jaundice and when able to participate in school activities.

Impetigo/ Staph/ MRSA YES – child may return 24 hours after treatment starts. Wound must be

covered with dressing taped on all 4 sides.

Rash

YES - Seek medical advice. Any rash that spreads quickly, has open,

weeping wounds and/or is not healing should be evaluated. May return

to school when medical provider determines that illness is not

communicable.

Mild Cold Symptoms

(stuffy nose with clear drainage,

sneezing, mild cough)

NO – May attend if well enough to participate in school activities

Upper Respiratory Complications

(large amount of thick nasal

discharge, extreme sleepiness, ear

pain, fever (above 95.5 degrees)

YES – Seek medical advice. Child may return when symptoms are

improving and child is physically able.

Ringworm YES – child may return after treatment begins. Area should be covered

while in school for first 48 hours of treatment.

Roseola NO – unless child cannot participate in usual activities and has fever.

Scabies

YES – child may return after treatment is started with note from medical

provider.

Strep Throat

YES – child may return after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment and no

fever for 24 hours.

Vaccine Preventable Diseases

(mumps, measles, whooping

cough)

YES – child must stay home until medical provider decides s/he is

infectious. Report all cases to the school.

Vomiting

YES – child may return after 24 hours from last episode or health care

provider determines that cause is not communicable.

References:American Academy of American Public Health Association. Caring for you Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards, Third Edition, Elk Grove Village, IL 2011."Infectious Diseases at School." Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 17 Nov. 2011. Web. 02 May 2012.

http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/infectious/index.htm

http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/infectious/index.htm


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Skateboards/Rollerblades

Neither skateboards nor rollerblades may be used on school property at any time.

The school assumes no liability in regard to their use.

Student Liability CCS is not responsible for personal property that may be lost or stolen. All items

should be labeled with the student’s name. All lost items will be placed in the lost

and found located in the elementary and junior high areas. Any student who loses

books or equipment will be required to replace them. Students are liable for the

willful destruction of property.

Telephone Messages and Usage

Students will not be allowed to use the telephones in the school office for placing

calls or receiving them. Please arrange all matters ahead of time with your student.

In case of emergency, the receptionist will take your message and notify the student.

Students may not be released from their classroom to take a message on the phone.

Testing Standardized achievement tests will be given during the spring semester. Dates

will be published in the newsletter and in a special mailing from the office. Test

results will be sent with the final report card.

Visitors Any person other than students, staff, faculty, and administration is considered a

visitor and must report to the office for clearance before going anywhere in the

school without prior approval from the administration. A visitor’s badge will be

issued from the office for each approved guest. Students should never ask a student

to visit the school without prior approval from the principal. Extended visits are

not conducive to an effective classroom atmosphere, and will not be permitted.

Former student visits should be limited to lunch and recess time. Teachers are

available for conferences by appointment after 3:30 p.m. Students who are

shadowing CCS with an interest to attend are limited to ½ day visits.

Volunteers Parents are encouraged to volunteer a part of their time on a regular basis to assist

teachers, office staff, etc. We appreciate volunteer parents setting the example for

students by following school rules including the dress code. Please call the office

if you are available to help.

Withdrawals Withdrawals from the school must be done through the school office. One

months’ notice should be given for all withdrawals. If one month’s notice is not

given, additional tuition charges may apply. (See FINANCES.)

Documents

Calvary Christian SchoolGood sportsmanship should be displayed by teams, coaches, and audience with respect given to referees and game officials. ... help the child assume, with understanding,