VBCA Homeschool Division Handbookapostolichomeschoolacademy.com/resources/VBCA Fam… · Web viewThe Virginia Beach Christian Academy Homeschool Division (VBCA) is a remarkable

VBCA Homeschool Division Handbook 2019

Virginia Beach Christian AcademyHomeschool Division

608 Happy acres RdChesapeake, VA 23323

757-240-3923Rev. Robert Thorp, Pastor/Principal Rev. Kimberly Thorp, D.Ed. Director_

Welcome The Virginia Beach Christian Academy Homeschool Division (VBCA) is a remarkable homeschool service provider that brings the excitement of cutting edge technology to the Christian homeschool family. Christian educators assist parents as they train their children in Christian principles and character, Biblical worldview and Christian service, while using an exciting and challenging curriculum, offered via computer access for grades 3-12 and consumable paper product for Kindergarten – grade 2. VBCA provides two levels of service. The Co-op level is simply that and is designed for those families who choose to homeschool independently and want their children involved in the weekly activities provided. VBCA is for families who register in our program, school their own children at home and participate in co-op. This handbook addresses the VBCA Homeschool Division policies. Mission Statement Virginia Beach Christian Academy is dedicated to assisting homeschool parents in training their children to be faithful Christians, spiritually strong, academically equipped, motivated by a Biblical Worldview, and a witness for the Lord, Jesus Christ.

Vision Statement VBCA will be in excellent spiritual, academic, and financial health, a growing community of believers full of faith and hope for the future.

VBCA will provide co-operative instruction one day each week for students in the Tidewater, VA area who are being taught at home. This instruction will assist the parent in providing PE, Art, Music, and other electives when possible, as well as offering the social interaction children require.

VBCA will provide Christian educational services to UPCI Global Missions participants as needed and at our cost.

Statement of Faith We believe in: The inspiration of the Bible, equally in all parts and without error in its origin

The one God who was the Father in creation, Son in redemption and the Holy Ghost in the Church, who is revealed to mankind in Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, and who created man by a direct immediate act.

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The incarnation, virgin birth, sinless life, miracles, substitutionary death, bodily resurrection, ascension to Heaven and second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ

The fall of man, the need of regeneration by the Holy Ghost and the resurrection of all: to life or damnation

Salvation through believing the Gospel, evidenced by repentance, baptism in Jesus name, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost as in Acts 2:1-4, 37-39. Walking in holiness, understanding that we are pilgrims and strangers, a peculiar people. We strive for holiness of heart, which will manifest itself through a personal lifestyle of holiness and purity, and in the fulfilling of the Great Commission, the Two Greatest Commandments, and the Cultural Mandate

Commitment to living life in a manner that is pleasing to the Lord, striving to develop Christian Character traits that are manifest in the daily walk of our students and staff

The importance of a Biblical Worldview and will strive to discipline our thinking and our actions to align with Biblical principles

THE ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE Pastor/Principal Rev. Robert Thorp is the founding Pastor of the United Pentecostal Church of Virginia Beach and and is ultimately responsible for the academy and its functions. Brother Thorp is an ordained minister with the United Pentecostal Church International. He has pastored for over 21 years and currently serves on the full-time staff providing counseling services, as the Global Missions Director at Bible World Church and the Quizmaster for the District of Virginia UPCI. He is retired from the United States Navy and studied Technology Education at Norfolk State University.

Minister of Education Rev. Kimberly Thorp is the director of the academy. She has her Doctorate and her Master’s in Education and a Bachelor’s Degree with a major in psychology and a minor in sociology. She is on the full-time staff at Bible World Church and is currently the Director of the VBCA homeschool Co-op,

Teachers : Committed parents determined to train up their children in the Lord.

PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES The Role of the Parent “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy 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, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand and they shall be as frontlets between

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thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates” (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6)

Clearly, it is the responsibility of the parents to teach and to train their children. Although we understand that not all parents are in a position to homeschool their children, the responsibility for teaching and training the child remains with the parent, therefore, working as a team with those who are teaching is imperative. For those who are teaching at home, these and many other verses reiterate these responsibilities and provide the instructions needed to teach according to Biblical principles. So if you choose to homeschool, how do you make this work for your family? Although many families homeschool independently, connecting with VBCA provides a support system that assists you with everything from curriculum to record keeping, tutoring to support and accountability. Together, we work to teach and to train your child.

The responsibility of the parent who partners with us to provide a Christian education for their children. In doing so, the following is important:

To protect your family by complying with the laws of your state regarding Homeschool education. Families in Virginia should file your Notification of Intent to teach at home. A copy of the form will be included in your registration packet. Using option number one, providing a copy of your high school diploma is the easiest. If this is not an option that will work for you, we can sit down together to determine the best plan. You will also indicate which courses your child will be taking during the upcoming academic year.

To provide a Christian environment at home – including a family altar, church attendance, and Biblical instruction for living

For children in grade 3 or above: To provide a computer or tablet of sufficient quality to access the internet, then access the student’s schoolwork at the academy. If you choose to use a tablet, please be sure to test it out and confirm that your child will be able to answer the questions and complete the essays. At times, there are some tablets that will not submit completed work properly. System Specs are included.

To provide a quiet place for study and require study time in each subject beyond the time necessary to complete daily goals (five minutes for levels 1-3; ten minutes for levels 4-7; fifteen minutes for levels 8-12).

To require your child to complete his daily required goals and assignments.

To go behind your child EVERY day – no matter how old he/she is – to ascertain that all subjects are current and completed to appropriate standards. Please do not assume that since your child is in high school, he doesn’t need you to follow up each day. We all

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need to answer to a higher authority and he needs to know you are going to check his progress.

To help your child when he faces difficult questions or needs assistance. To score all items that require hand grading using the required criteria. For example, if a report is to be 750 words, be sure your child has written approximately 750 words. Anything less will require a rewrite. Ignitia Writer will assist those using this program. Please remember that I am willing to score these if you will send them to me as a Word document. To expect your child to use his own words, cite his sources when quoting or using someone else’s idea, and to NEVER copy/paste his answers, as this is plagiarism. (Wikipedia is not a source )

To require that all assigned projects, reports and essays are completed by their due dates. This is a must prior to testing out on the final exam.

To encourage your child to read by abiding by the following: All students should learn to read for pleasure. Children in K-4 are to read and keep a daily journal showing comprehension. Kindergarten and first grade students read to you and you read to them. They tell you what they want to say in their journal and draw a picture of what they read. Students in grades 5-8 should complete one book report each month.

Parents of students who are using paper product for their lessons, living in theTidewater area are required bring student books to co-op sessions so there is a weekly check point for completed work. Those families who do not participate in co-op are to forward an email to the director weekly. This is to includes the pages completed each week in each subject that is not on the computer. These families will also provide for PE activities each week. Additionally, Art and music activities for children through grade seven and science activities for K-2 students (be sure to describe what you did. Don’t just say experiment). Science activities for older students are verified via their online academic progress.

To teach your child to reach for “Excellence: Never mediocrity”

To complete standardized testing each year. Special needs students who have a documented diagnosis of need and are unable to successfully complete this testing may meet this requirement via alternative evaluation.

In the event that monthly installments are permitted, parents are to make all payments by the first of each month or previously approved due dates.

To support the policies of this provider as we strive to assist you in training your child.

The Student Each student registered in this academy’s homeschool division accepts specific responsibilities in order to meet the objectives necessary to receive an excellent education.

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Student responsibilities are as follows: To endeavor to grow daily in your walk with God by reading the Bible, praying, and applying Scripture to your life

To choose to develop Christian character by applying Biblical principles to situations and decisions

To be thankful to your parents for the sacrifices made in order for you to participate in this learning experience.

To recognize the authority of your parents as the teachers, showing respect, honor, and obedience

To work diligently each day to complete all academic goals

To faithfully complete all assignments to the best of your ability. Do not skip questions or assignments; Do not submit inferior quality work. Do your best!

To study for the appropriate time periods each evening

To complete all projects, essays, and experiments on time (without using copy/paste to plagiarize the work of others) and to cite legitimate sources (not Wikipedia )

To abide by the No Griping policy, cheerfully

The Calling of the VBCA “O Lord, I beg you, let the man of God you sent to us come again to teach us how to bring up the boy who is to be born” (Judges 13:8, NIV).

The support provided by VBCA is established to assist the Christian homeschool parent in training their child/ren academically, spiritually, and emotionally.

The Responsibility of VBCA staff: To live a Christian life consistent with the Word of God. Although not perfect, each staff member must strive to live a life of Christian love and holiness.

To provide curriculum and to maintain accurate student records in the name of the family’s homeschool.

To provide quarterly progress reports under your homeschool name.

To provide a transcript upon graduation or withdrawal to be kept by the homeschool family.

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To provide a diploma upon completion of the minimum number of credits required for graduation in the name of your homeschool.

To assist parents with the challenges of teaching one’s own children. To motivate; To encourage; to assist; to help with parenting questions; to love the parent and the child.We consider it an honor to have the opportunity to love your family and to assist you in training your children spiritually as well as academically. Our goal is to see the sixty character traits of Christ and the fruit of the Spirit residing in the heart of your child.

To tutor as needed according to policy for individual instruction and tutoring. In the event that your child frequently requires additional time, a fee of $15 for every fifteen minute increment is charged.

To work hand in hand with the church and the parents to teach, train, motivate, encourage, and succeed in growing your children spiritually, academically, emotionally, and socially.

ACCREDITATION Since we provide services to the homeschool family and are not an actual school, accreditation is not an issue. You are a homeschool family and the curriculum we provide is accepted in all states.

Homeschool students, who have worked diligently, seeking entrance into colleges, universities, or trade schools, gain admission as a result of their SAT scores, GPA, transcript, and community service activities. Homeschool students, who have completed the work assigned in an appropriate manner, generally score higher and have greater academic success than the majority of public or private school students.

As to transferring to other high schools, students, using the lifepac in the younger grades and the Ignitia curriculum at the older levels, are typically one to two years ahead of their peers if they have completed the necessary course requirements in a timely manner. We do not recommend placement above the typical age/grade level, however, as this is a new environment for the child and coexisting with peers is an easier transition than with students a year or two older. Additionally, the entire learning environment is different and some children do not adapt as easily as others. This may result in lower grades until the transition is made.

We encourage every homeschool family to become members of the Home School Legal Defense Association. They will work for you in the event of a glitch in the system where an employer or school is not familiar with the laws of your state.

PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION The Philosophy It is the philosophy of VBCA to seek God for each and every student. Although our goal is to meet the academic needs of our students, it is important to focus on their spiritual needs, as well. Discerning the level of spiritual maturity of each student is the priority.

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Working with each one for growth and development of his spiritual walk, is of primary importance. Our goal is to see each student in a personal relationship with the Lord, Jesus Christ and motivated by a Biblical worldview.

Our entire philosophy of education is based on the belief that God created each and every one to be unique. There are different strengths and weaknesses – different talents and abilities as described in Corinthians: “But all these (gifts) worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will” (I Corinthians 12:11).

The Method Using Alpha and Omega Publications Ignitia ProgramEvery student is tested prior to enrollment using the Diagnostic Test. This battery of tests does not determine how “smart” a child is. It simply determines what this child has already learned and mastered. It is possible for a child to have been “in the classroom” for a lengthy period of time, but it does not necessarily mean that he has mastered the material which was presented in that classroom. Therefore, in our program, the student is placed on a level at which he can perform successfully, regardless of his age or transferring grade level. Should he diagnose at a level that is below his chronological age, we often find that the child is able to rebuild his lost self-confidence once he begins to master the material and score well on the mastery tests. Usually, the child will move rather quickly through his curriculum, at first, while he is catching up to his “grade level”. If a student is registered in our program early enough, and his motivation is strong, he can often “catch up to his chronological level.

In order for an individualized program to work, the curriculum in the core subjects must be individualized. Alpha Omega Publications offers the opportunity to meet individualized needs in core subjects. These include Math, Language Arts, History, Science, and Bible. Your child needs a quiet place to work on his lessons where you can observe his actions. He does so by reading the material and practicing the exercises. Some students need a combination of visual and auditory stimulation for learning success. These children have the option of reading along as the lesson is read aloud. It is also possible to have the lessons translated into Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Russian. In the event that a student needs assistance, the homeschool parent assists their child. As a service provider, we will offer occasional assistance at no additional charge.

Typically, core subjects will require the completion of ten units per year per subject. Some subjects at some grade levels have more units; others have less.

Students will complete one unit approximately every three weeks. Those who are “catching up” will move faster in the beginning. Some will move faster due to outstanding ability. Some may move through the course much slower due to learning disabilities that require a slower pace. The individualization of this program allows for the optimum pace for every single child. Thus, allowing for the optimum learning experience

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CURRICULUM Core Subjects Students work on Math, Language Arts, History & Geography, Science, and Bible on a daily basis. Children in K-2 will work with pencil and paper. Students in grades 3-12 work in the computer. If your child will be using the computer curriculum, you will be required to provide a computer that is compatible with the remote program.

Other Subjects Those students living in the Tidewater area will have the opportunity to participate in PE, Art, Music and additional electives such as science lab and technology ed. Sr. Bible Quizzers may also have the opportunity to work together if time permits. A high school resource room is provided for face to face math instruction, questions and answers in other subjects and study time. Students will move in and out of this room throughout the day so they can participate in the co-op classes they need. All of this is offered through the VBCA Co-op program, which meets weekly.

PE is required for all students through grade 10 (or until they have enough credits). The PE course is to be provided by the parent. Those students who are in the local area may satisfy this requirement through participation in the VBCA Co-op plus additional time spent each week to meet the minimum number of hours required for credit. Those who are not in the area or who choose not to participate in the co-op may choose other options, such as participation in a little league or neighborhood sport’s team, participation in a home school association sport’s program or individually established PE by the parent (Each session must be recorded with date, times, and activity in order for us to give credit and children must participate at least 4 hours each week). Students who ONLY participate in a physical fitness activity at co-op will receive ½ credit each year (because of the number of hours required). Therefore, these students will need to participate in PE for all four of their high school years to reach the 2 credit minimum for graduation.

Music and Art are required weekly classes through grade nine and electives for all others. The co-op program provides the opportunity for families to include PE, Art, Music and elective subjects through weekly participation. Again, a neighborhood rec center, a home school association, or private lessons are good choices for these activities. (Each session must be recorded with date, times, and activity in order for us to give credit). There are also excellent options available via the internet.Numerous electives are available through VBCA.

CURRICULUM – OTHER Occasionally, a family of a child with special needs will ask about adding a resource curriculum or literacy therapy, etc to their child’s academic packet. VBCA will continue to offer services in those instances on a case by case basis.

Co-op

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VBCA Co-op normally meets once a week and offers field trips, PE, Art, Music, additional courses and a monthly Christian Service project. A Co-op Student Handbook is available and will be included in your admissions packet.

Co-op currently meets at Bible World Church and has opened its door of opportunity to home school families who choose to participate. The tuition fees for participation in the co-op program are waived for all VBCA students, as you already pay your child’s VBCA service fees.

ADMISSIONS Policies and Procedures Log into the website at www.apostolichomeschoolacademy.com and copy the enrollment form. Paste it into Microsoft Word. Complete the application and e-mail the application to [email protected]. A testing fee of $50 is required before access to the diagnostic will be provided.

Your child’s date and time for diagnostic testing will be set and access will be provided for completion on your tablet or your computer if your child is in the third grade or higher. If your child is younger, a set of paper diagnostics will be sent to you.

The results of your child’s diagnostic and an individualized plan will be created.

Send hard copies of the registration forms, making sure you have signed all of the “signature” spaces by hand rather than a computer signature. The one-time registration fee is due with this paperwork.

Non-discrimination policy This school shall have a nondiscriminatory policy and, therefore, shall not discriminate against members, applicants, students, and others on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin

Standardized Tests Students are required to complete one of the Standardized Learning Tests in the spring of the year. You will be provided with an excellent site from which to order your tests. Students in the Tidewater area may take their test at our co-op site in the spring of each year.

WITHDRAWAL POLICIES Withdrawal Students are enrolled in this program for a one-year period. In the event that a parent must withdraw the child from the service, there is no refund, reimbursement, or prorated settlement. Your fees are due to be paid in full prior to the first day in school. If you have been approved for monthly payments, you will be able to meet that obligation throughout the academic year. However, removing your child from the academy will still require that the balance of any payments due be remitted prior to the release of any records, assignment of any credits, and/or the forwarding of any transcripts. Please

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mailto:[email protected]


understand that a site licensing fee plus an individual student license and all curriculum for the year has been paid by VBCA when you enrolled your child. Your monthly payment is simply reimbursing us for money we have already spent on your child’s behalf.

ACADEMIC PROBATION AND EXPULSION It is imperative that our students work daily on their academic assignments, keep up with essays and projects, and test as scheduled. It is incumbent upon the parent to see that the child is current in all subjects at all times. End of the day checks by the parent are mandatory.

Each student is to complete 25% of the required material in every subject during each quarter. This schedule will work for your child unless he has learning gaps to complete in order to “catch up” to his grade level. In those cases, adjustments will be made.

In the event that a child does not complete 50% of the units in each subject the first semester, he will be placed on probation for the following semester. If the student has not completed 50% of the units in each subject during the second semester either, he will no longer be eligible for our services. In the event that a student completes 50% of the units in each subject during the second semester, but is still not finished with all required units as a result of poor performance during the first semester, he will be provided with access to all of his work for completion during the summer. Tutoring will not be available during those summer months.

General information VBCA is dependent upon the fees of the students and gifts of friends for operation expenses. Fees are considered to be remuneration for services and are not considered to be tax deductible by the federal government.

Tuition Tuition is due in full prior to the first day of school. Families who desire to make monthly payments may do so if they are approved for the no interest payment plan. Payments are due on the first of each month unless another due date has been approved and are.

Late payments In the event that a bank transfer does not clear, a late fee of $5 per day will be assessed beginning on the first late day. On the tenth day, your child’s access will be denied until all late payments have been paid and the account is current. The first incident is “graced”. A second incident will place your account on probation and a third incident will require that your balance be paid in full or your child dismissed from the academy.

Insufficient funds

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Fees for tutoring or for field trips etc. may be paid by cash, check, or money order. However, there is a $30 fee for returned checks no matter what the reason may be. The second time a check is returned, you will be required to make payments in cash.

Additional Fees A fee of $10.00 will be charged for each failed unit. In the event that your child does not pass the mastery test, he will be given the opportunity to study that evening then take the alternate test. There will be no charge if your child passes the alternate exam. If, however, he is also unable to pass the alternate, he will need to redo the entire unit. There will be an $10.00 charge to replace the unit.

Tutoring Fees: There is no charge for the instruction provided during scheduled co-op

There is no charge for the first hour each week for tutoring via telephone, text, etc.

A fee of $15 for every 15-minute increment per week after the one hour per week has been reached. In other words, during the course of the week your child requires 1 hour and 27 minutes of tutoring. The first hour is free. A fee of $30 will be charged for the next two fifteen minute increments provided.

Change of curriculum format: Occasionally, a parent feels that it would benefit his child to switch from paper to computer or from the online instruction to paper (local only) during the school year. This is possible but two things should be remembered. Not all lessons are taught in the same order so a bit of bouncing around may be required. Also, we have already paid for the curriculum assigned to your child. Changing to a different format will require additional funds. You will be charged the additional curriculum fee.

GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Church Attendance In an effort to work as a team with the student, parents, church and school to train your child for life, we recommend that all students attend church services on a regular basis (at least once a week).

Length of the School Day Students may begin their day as early or as late as they desire. However, all of the day’s goals are to be completed by midnight. We will be available to answer questions or assist the student between 9AM and noon. We will respond to any messages received overnight as soon after 9am as possible..

Attendance It is incumbent upon the parent to be certain that their children complete all of the annual requirements. VBCA understands that one of the benefits of teaching at home is the freedom to take your children on a field trip or to a special event. However, it is important to be sure that your children maintain adequate forward progress. The director monitors log in times and progress. If a child is behind for a day or two and is

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able to get caught up, nothing is said. However, the parent will be contacted in the event that the student is not caught up quickly.

In the event that an outing or special event is scheduled that requires more than a couple of days, the parent should send a text or e-mail the director listing dates and any pertinent information. The student completes additional work in the days prior to his days off to make certain that his goals are completed for the period that he will be out of school before he leaves. Doing schoolwork on Saturday is also permissible. The important thing to remember is to inform the director and have a plan in place for completing goals that were due during the “off” days.

School Closings VBCA will not be affected by inclement weather as it is not necessary to leave home in order to complete the day’s assignments. Some families will take one or two of the “snow days” enjoyed by the area’s public schools but those missed assignments should be made up quickly to get your child back on schedule.

Office Hours You may reach the director via text (757-240-3923) or email at [email protected]

Parent/Advisor Communication Parents are encouraged to contact us via e-mail, text, or telephone as stated above.

SandpaperStudents who learn at home are often recognized for outstanding academic success. Unfortunately, they are also occasionally recognized as being somewhat immature, perhaps a bit lacking in social graces, maybe even finding it difficult to keep their Christian walk strong once they graduate and head off to college. Studies have shown that students who have participated in regularly scheduled activities with other children make much greater progress in the socialization process. Consequently, VBCA has created a co-op program designed for homeschooled students and strongly recommends that your children participate in the activities offered. There is no registration cost for students who are enrolled in VBCA.

Conflict It is very rare for a homeschool provider and one of the families to have a conflict that cannot be resolved between the two parties involved. Should the situation arise, however, and a parent OR the provider believes that they are at an impasse and unable to resolve a conflict, it is understood that neither party will bring lawsuit against the other party to be addressed in the courts. The policy is to enter into binding arbitration rather than a court of law. Registration requires that you agree to enter into binding arbitration in the event of an unresolved conflict. This is consistent with the Scriptures (I Cor 6:1-7).

ACADEMIC POLICIES Progress Reports

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VBCA operates on a four quarter system. Progress reports will be issued in the name you have chosen for your homeschool program (typically “Last name Family Homeschool”. If your child has honestly completed all of the requirements, there will be a second line that reads “Virginia Beach Christian Academy Homeschool Division”

Grading Policy Students are to complete a minimum of 50% of the subject matter per semester. The tests will be 60% of the grade. The self-tests (quizzes) are averaged and count for 25%. Reports and projects are worth 10%, and the oral presentations are 5%. Students who do not earn 80% on their test, will be given the opportunity for a day of review and issued the alternate test. Students who still are unable to pass their test, will have earned a zero and must begin their unit all over again. The scores and letter grade equivalents without + or – grades and are as follows:

94-100 A 88-93 B 79-87 C 70-78 D

Honor Roll Requirements In order to obtain honor roll status, the student must complete the minimum number of units required per semester. Additionally, the student must accumulate an average score of at least 88%, recite all of the monthly Scripture passages required for this level. The student must also be in “Good standing”. In other words, he may not be on probation and all payments must be current to make honor roll.

Homework Students will be required to complete all daily goals, finish projects and essays on time and set aside study time for each subject consistent with his grade level. Remember: study time is in addition to daily requirements Grade school 10 minutes per day per subject of study and practice Middle school 15 minutes per day per subject of study and practice High school 20 minutes per day per subject of study and practice

ElectivesThe following electives are provided:

American LiteratureBritish LiteratureBusiness Computer Information Systems IABusiness Computer Information Systems IBCalculus (for use with AP* courses)CivicsThe Civil WarCollege PlannerComparative Government and Politics (for use with AP* courses)Consumer MathDigital ArtsEnglish Language and Composition (for use with AP* courses)Essentials of Business

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Essentials of MathFamily and Consumer ScienceFoundations for LivingFrench IFrench IIGeneral Science IIIHealth QuestHigh School HealthHuman Geography (for use with AP* courses)Integrated Math IIntegrated Physics and ChemistryMacroeconomics (for use with AP* courses)Music AppreciationMusic TheoryPersonal Financial LiteracyPhysical EducationPhysical FitnessSpanish ISpanish IISpeech: Essentials of CommunicationTrigonometryTwentieth Century American HistoryUS Government and Politics (for use with AP* courses)US History (for use with AP* courses)The Viet Nam Era

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY ELECTIVESA/V Technology and Film CareersBanking Services CareersBusiness LawCareer Explorations ICareer Explorations IICareer ManagementCareers in Allied HealthCareers in Logistics Planning and Management ServicesCareers in Manufacturing ProcessesCareers in Marketing ResearchConstruction CareersEngineering and DesignEngineering and InnovationEngineering and Product DevelopmentFundamentals of Computer SystemsFundamentals of Digital MediaFundamentals of Programming and Software Development

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Introduction to Careers in Architecture and ConstructionIntroduction to Careers in Arts, A/V Technology, and CommunicationsIntroduction to Careers in Education and TrainingIntroduction to Careers in FinanceIntroduction to Careers in Government and Public AdministrationIntroduction to Careers in ManufacturingIntroduction to Careers in MarketingIntroduction to Careers in Transportation, Distribution, and LogisticsIntroduction to Consumer ServicesIntroduction to Information TechnologyIntroduction to Information Technology Support and ServicesIntroduction to Network SystemsKeyboarding and ApplicationsNational Security CareersNetwork System DesignNew ApplicationsNursing: Unlimited Possibilities and Unlimited PotentialOffice Applications IOffice Applications IIOffice Applications IIIPrinciples of CodingSmall Business EntrepreneurshipSoftware Development ToolsTeaching and Training CareersTechnology and Business

Some of the courses listed are required for graduation with a college prep honors diploma. Others are AP courses, which are alternatives acceptable in the college prep program. AP courses are more costly and require additional textbooks and testing at the completion of the course to be given AP credit. Students who take these courses may choose to skip the testing and still earn credit toward high school graduation. Another option for students, which seems to work better than the AP courses is dual enrollment at the community college. Students who take a course there will receive both college and high school credit.

Other courses listed are electives not required for the college prep diploma but are worth high school credit as electives. Some students may choose to pursue a standard diploma. This option provides the student with the opportunity to insert more electives into his program. Often these students include technical courses of interest.

Graduation All students are assigned to a program of study consistent with their abilities and the results of their diagnostics. We encourage parents to assign the “college prep” course load when their children register. In the event that you and your child decide that a technical course of study is more consistent with his talents, abilities, and “likes”, we can provide an array of electives that will best “fit” your child.

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Those students who complete the College Prep track and maintain the appropriate GPA (3.5 or higher) will be eligible to wear the honor stole and tassel upon graduation

Students graduating with a GPA of 3.5 or higher may wear the gold honor tassel

MINIMUM CREDITS REQUIRED FOR COLLEGE PREP DIPLOMA

English 4 Composition 3 Literature 1

Mathematics 4 Algebra I 1 Algebra II 1 Geometry 1 Financial Responsibility 1(or accepted equivalents)

Laboratory Science 3 Biology 1 Physical Science 1 Chemistry 1 or Physical Science 1

Social Studies 4.5 United States History 1 World History 1 Government and Economics 1 World Geography 1Virginia History .5(or accepted electives)

Bible 4 Foundations for LivingChristian Faith and LivingNew Testament SurveyOld Testament Survey’’

Health/PE (parent’s responsibility) 2 Music or Fine Arts (parent’s responsibility) 2

Foreign Language minimum 3Either three years of one language orFour years of two different languages

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Electives 3.5 TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED 30 Those students who complete the College Prep track and maintain the appropriate GPA will be eligible to wear the honor stole and tassel upon graduation

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MINIMUM CREDITS REQUIRED FOR A STANDARD DIPLOMA

English 4 Composition 3 Literature 1

Mathematics 3 Algebra 1 or Business Math 1Algebra 2 or Computer Literacy 1Financial Literacy 1

Laboratory Science 3 Choose any three from the following list

Earth Science 1Biology 1Chemistry 1Physics 1Elective Computer Lit (may not take this course for both math and science) 1

Social Studies 3.5 United States History 1 Government and Economics 1 Virginia History .5 World History or World Geohraphy1

Bible 4 Foundations for Living 1Christian Faith and Living 1New Testament Survey 1Old Testament Survey’’ 1

Health/PE (parent’s responsibility) 2

Music or fine arts (parent’s responsibility) 2

Additional Electives 4.5

TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED 26

Students graduating with a GPA of 3.5 or high may wear the gold honor tassel

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Graduation Students who have completed all of the requirements necessary for graduation will have the opportunity to participate in the graduation ceremony scheduled in conjunction with the VBCA co-op. You will be given information for purchasing the cap and gown, appropriate tassel, and if eligible the gold stole. Each graduate creates a presentation board with pictures, artwork, etc – things of personal importance, to share with the attendees. Since most families prefer to have a private celebration with family and friends, we do not serve refreshments after the ceremony.

A diploma and transcript under the name of the family’s homeschool will be provided. Colleges, universities, trade schools, or potential employers may request copies of the diploma or transcript so be sure to keep them in a safe place as it is not unusual for the child to lose them as time passes.

CommitmentOur desire is to develop in every child such a love for learning that he becomes a “lifelong learner”, continuing to add to his knowledge base and growing spiritually each and every day through his study of the Word of God. Although completely dedicated to preparing your child for life via education, our ultimate goal is to prepare him for Christian Service while he “occupies” until the Lord’s return and ultimately for Eternal Life. With the parents, the church, and the service provider all working together, we will see success.

“I HAVE NO GREATER JOY THAN TO HEAR THAT MY CHILDREN WALK IN TRUTH”

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Virginia Beach Christian Homeschool Services608 Happy Acres Rd

Chesapeake, VA 23322757-240-3923

[email protected]

Rev. Robert Thorp, Pastor Rev. Kimberly Thorp, D.Ed. Principal

APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENTSection 1Date _____________________

Student name: __________________________________________________________

Address_______________________________________________________________________

City,State,Zip ________________________________Social Security # ___________________

Telephone: ____________________ Age: _______ Sex: ____ Birthdate __________

Section 2Family InformationFather’s Name: __________________________________________________________

Employment: ____________________________Social Security Number: _________________

Position: _________________________________ Cell Phone: __________________

Mother’s Name: _________________________________________________________

Employment: ____________________________Social Security Number: _________________

Position: _________________________________ Cell Phone: _________________ ____

Section 3General InformationThe application must be filled out completely before it can be processed. The application form and enrollment fee of $50.00 must be submitted for review. A $50 testing fee must be submitted prior to testing.

Tuition is an annual fee and is due in full on or before July 1. Those families who desire to do so may request the opportunity to make semi-annual, quarterly, or monthly payments. The “promissory note” must be completed and signed. Your application for a “payment plan” will be

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mailto:[email protected]


considered and you will be notified of the decision. All tuitions and fees must be paid prior to the release of your child’s final report card, or participation in graduation ceremonies.

I understand that I am entering into a method of education for my child that requires constant involvement on my part, as a parent.

I agree to participate in the training scheduled for me by the academyI agree to establish a place in my home for my child to study and complete the work assigned. I understand that if my child is in grade 3 or above, this workspace must include a computer that is compatible with the distance learning curriculum provided by the academy and must have access to a high speed internet connection.

I understand that this curriculum will require approximately three to four hours per day of instruction and understand that this work is only the “beginning” of my child’s schoolwork for the day. I also understand that projects, book reports, experiments and research assignments are also required and will be due on the assigned dates.

I agree to uphold and support the high moral standards of this academy by providing an example of the same in my home.

I understand that in order for my child to continue to participate in this program, he/she is required to maintain adequate progress. Failure to meet deadlines and assignment dates will result in dismissal from the program.

I understand that the service reserves the right to dismiss any child who fails to comply with the established regulations and discipline or whose financial obligation remains unpaid.

I further agree to the arbitration policy as stated in the student handbook.

I have read the Student Handbook and agree to abide by and support the policies and procedures contained therein. I understand the terms stated on this application and agree thereto.

________________________________ ______________________________ signature of father signature of mother

________________________________ ______________________________ date date

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PROMISSORY NOTE

STUDENT(s):__________________________________ ACADEMIC YEAR _______

To Whom It May Concern:This is to certify that I, Mr. ____________________________________, father of the above named student, and I, Mrs. ___________________________________, mother of the above named student do contract to VBCA Homeschool Division $ __ in US currency as my total financial obligation for the ___ __________ academic year.

I understand that the tuition is an annual fee and is to be paid in full by July 1.

I understand that I am entering into a binding agreement to pay this tuition over the time period allotted and promise to fulfill my obligation in full and on time. I understand that failure to comply with the terms of the installment contract will result in the following actions: A $5 per day late fee will be levied commencing with the first day after the due date. My child will not have access to his courses if my account becomes ten days past due and will not be readmitted until all past due funds have been paid; financial probation will result at the occurrence of a second offense. A third offense results in the requirement that the balance of my year’s tuition be paid in full within thirty days or my child will be removed from the academy. Additionally, report cards, transcripts, and participation in graduation exercises may not take place until the account is cleared.

I understand that I may use cash, checks, or money orders to transfer funds to the academy. I am aware of the fact that there is a $30.00 fee for any check that is returned for any reason and this fee will not be waived.

I understand that my payment history with this academy becomes a part of my credit record and agree to pay all expenses and fees incurred as a result of any attempt to collect past due funds on this account.

_____________________________Witnessed by ___________________________ fatherDated this _______ day of _________________ 20____

_____________________________mother

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Documents

VBCA Homeschool Division Handbookapostolichomeschoolacademy.com/resources/VBCA Fam… · Web viewThe Virginia Beach Christian Academy Homeschool Division (VBCA) is a remarkable