HCA Elementary Student Handbook
Heritage Christian Academy Elementary 9333 W 159th Street Overland Park, Kansas 66221 913/681-7622 | elementary@hcakc.org www.hcakc.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement
4 5
Daily Schedule
I.
COMMUNICATION
5-6 5-6
School-to-Parent Communication Parent-to-School Communication
6
II.
ACADEMIC MATTERS Grading Systems
7-12
7 8 8 9 9 9 9
Homework
Incomplete Grades
Library
8-9
Class Lists Tutoring
Make-up Work
Probation
Promotion Policy Physical Education Standardized Testing
10 10 10 11
Student Activities and Field Trips
Student Records
11-12
Textbooks
12
III. ATTENDANCE
12-15
General Policy on Absence
12
Absences Excused
12-13
Unexcused Absences with Parent Permission
13 13 13 14 14
Absences Due to Truancy Early Dismissal from School
Late Drop-off to/Pick-Up from School
13-14
Family Trips Leaving Campus
Release of a Student to Other than Custodial Parent
14-15
Withdrawals
15
IV. APPEARANCE AND DRESS
15-17 16-17
Elementary Dress Code
Infractions
17
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V.
STUDENT CONDUCT Personal Virtues Discipline Methods
18-21 18-19 19-21 21-23
VI. HEALTH AND SAFETY
Medication Policy Illness or Injury
21 22 22 22 22 23 23 23 23
Head Lice
Health Records
Traffic Procedures for Drop-off and Pick-Up
School Closings
Emergency Action Plan Fire and Tornado Drills Visitors on Campus
VII. GENERAL INFORMATION
24-28
STUDENT LIFE Telephone Calls Hot Lunch Program
24 24 24 24 24
Chapel
Computer Resources Acceptable Use Policy
Media Policy
SCHOOL ORGANIZATION Church Membership
25
Debts/Tuition
25-26
Building and Grounds
26
SCHOOL COMMUNITY Teacher Appreciation Gift Policy Student Birthday Celebrations Opportunities for Involvement Connections Team Class Parties
27 27 27 27 28 28 28
The Literary Guild Room Moms Moms In Prayer
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Gospel-centered education for life
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Heritage Christian Academy is to glorify God by serving Christian parents and their children while providing a high quality, Christ-centered educational program, marked by academic excellence, and the development of a Biblical worldview and strong Christian character.
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DAILY SCHEDULE The elementary school day begins at 8:15 AM and ends at 3:05PM. Children shouldenterthebuildingnoearlierthan8:00AMasteacherswillbepreparingfor classes and there will be no supervision for students before that time. Pick-up proceduresaretimedsothatallstudentsareoutofthebuildingby3:25PM (See Health and Safety section for traffic procedures). Students who havenotbeen pickedupby3:25PMwillbesenttoAftercarewithchargesbeginningatarateof $25/hour with a minimum of $10. Parents must walk in to pick up students in Aftercare. We are pleased to provide thisservicetoHCAparents(onfullschool days only). I. COMMUNICATION School-to-Parent Communication Communication formats usedbytheschooltocommunicatewithparentsareas follows: SchoolNewsletter-ThisweeklycommunicationispublishedviaemailonFriday afternoon most school weeks and is sent to all families and staff. General announcements, reminders and scheduled social and sports events are included. Sharing the Blessings - This periodic email communication from the Principal highlights school happenings and encourages the Heritage community in our pursuit of Christian education for ourstudentsbyreflectingonwhatGodisdoing in our midst. E-Notes-TheseinformalemailnotesaresenttoallElementaryfamiliesonan“as needed” basis. They contain less formal announcements, reminders and updates. Classroom Newsletters will be sent home weekly by each classroom teacher. Thesecontainnewsandupdatesonclassroomactivities,instructionalmattersand other information from the teacher. Teachers may choose to send these electronically. Progress Reports noting concerns about unsatisfactory progress are either emailed or mailed home to parents, midway through each grading period, as needed. AcademicReportCardsareissuedfourtimeseachyearattheconclusionofeach quarter. Report Cards are posted on Blackbaud. Parents are encouraged to reviewtheonlinereportcardspromptlyandprintoutacopyfortheirrecordswithin a week of their posting. Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled as listed in the school calendar. Parents are requested to attend the fall conferences. Spring conferences are optional, though your child’s teacher may contact you to requestaconference,if they feel it would be beneficial to your student. Any parents who would like to meet with their child’s teacher at this time are encouraged to sign up.
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Blackbaud - Heritage utilizes the Blackbaud data system for much of its communication. Parents are able to log on, download various documents and viewthecalendar,lunchmenuanddirectory,amongotherfunctions. Parentscan also view report cards for their students with grade 5 being able to view their assignments. EachfamilyshouldupdatetheirinformationonBlackbaudto ensure accuracy. Parent-to-School Communication Whenparentsdesiredirectcommunicationwithateacher,theyshouldemailthe teacher; teachers check their email periodically during the day. If it’s an urgent need, parents may call the office. Absences should be reported by 8:00 AM by calling the attendance line (913/681-7622option2) . Requestsformake-upworkforsickstudentsshouldbe madetotheteacherviaemail. Mosthomeworkrequestedinatimelymannercan be picked up in the office at the end of the school day. Teachers are selected not only for their instructional skills and academic preparedness, but also for their love for and understandingofchildren.Ongoing, opencommunicationbetweenparentandteacherwillgreatlybenefiteachstudent and avoid potential misunderstandings. Any problems within the classroom shouldbediscusseddirectlywiththechild’steacher. If,afterseveralattempts,the issue cannot be resolved, the parent or teacher may request a meeting with the Principal to work towards a solution. Issues regarding daily operations or policies and procedures should betakenup withthePrincipal. ThePrincipalwilleitherresolvetheissueor,ifappropriate,ask theparent(s)tosubmittheirrequestinwriting. ThePrincipalisalwaysavailableto meet with parents to address any questions or concerns.
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II. ACADEMIC MATTERS Grading Systems The following grading systems are used: Kindergarten Progress Effort S – Satisfactory Progress
1 – Excellent 2 – Good
+ Strength
I – Improving
— Area for Growth √ Age Appropriate
N – Needs Improvement N/A – Not Assessed
3 – Fair
Grades 1 and 2 S – Satisfactory
Steady growth at the child’s particular level and consistent achievement of instructional objectives.
I – Improving Is beginning to demonstrate consistency in achievement of instruction objectives. N – Needs Improvement Inconsistent achievement of instructional objectives. U – Unsatisfactory Unsatisfactory achievement of instructional objectives. √ + Outstanding √ Good Progress √ – Area for Growth N/A Not assessed
Grades 3 through 5 A– Superior
B – Above Average
C – Average 77-79 = C+ 73-76 = C 70-72 = C–
95-100 = A 90-94 = A–
87-89 = B+ 83-86 = B 80-82 = B–
S+ Excellent
D – Below Average
F – Failing 59 and below
67-69 = D+ 63-66 = D 60-62 = D–
S
Satisfactor y
S– Needs Improvement
U
Unsatisfactory
I - Incomplete
N/A Not Applicable *
Modifications
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Homework Homeworkshallbeassignedinsuchquantitiesastoprovideadequatetrainingin independent study and in practicing the skills covered in the classroom, but without significantly impacting non-academic activities or meeting a healthy bedtime hour. As a general rule, homework will not be assigned in kindergarten, will be given primarily to reinforce reading and/or math skills in first grade, and will be given sparingly in second grade. If a student consistently has difficulty in this area, somethingiswrongwitheitherthenumberofassignmentsreceivedorwithhis/her handling of time, or with the amount of time spent on extracurricular activities. ● To enrich and extend school experiences ● To help students learn to budget their time ● To promote growth in responsibility Parents can encourage good homework habits by the following methods: ● Cooperate with the school in making homework effective ● Providesuitablestudyconditions(desk,light,books,supplies),reservetimefor homework, silence the phone, turn off the television and turn away visitors ● Encourage your children, but avoid any undue pressure ● Beinterestedinwhatyourchildrenaredoing,butdonotdotheirhomeworkfor them ● Understand what the school expects homework to accomplish Incomplete Grades Homework is given for the following purposes: ● To provide essential practice in needed skills ● To train students in good work habits ● To afford opportunities for increasing self-direction A student receives an incomplete grade when, due to various circumstances, he/she does not earn a grade in a subject because of work that has not been completed or turnedin. Theresponsibilityofmakingarrangementsformake-up work belongs to the parents. Incomplete grades must be made up within a reasonable period of time agreed to by the Principal. Library No books are to be taken from the library unless checked out through the student’steacher. Studentsmustpayforthereplacementofanylostordamaged library materials checked out in their name. Donationsforpurchasingbooksare alwayswelcome;thelibrarystaffhasalistofbookstheschoolwishestoacquire. Book donations are also accepted; however, the library only accepts hardcover books.
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Ifyouwishtodonateotherbooks,theycanbepassedontoclassroomcollections or donated to the public library. The Literary Guild assists the librarian in the organization and maintenance of the library. Class Lists Each year, the Principal and teachers will thoughtfully and prayerfully make decisions about student class assignments. At Heritage, we strive to provide everystudentwiththebestpossibleacademicexperienceeachyear. Ourgoalis to fairlyaddresstheneedsofallstudentsineachclassroom;therefore, requests for specific teachers or classes cannot be accepted. Class groupings of studentsaredeterminedbyanumberoffactors,includingacademicperformance, as well as social and disciplinary needs. Parents are always encouraged to communicatewiththeclassroomteacherandPrincipalthroughouttheschoolyear regardinganyareasofconcernfortheirstudent. Classlistsforthecomingschool year are emailed in late July/early August. Tutoring Students who could benefit from tutoring have this option at Heritage. Arrangements can be made for after-school tutoring by Heritage teachers if available, with payment per agreement and paid directly to the teacher. Make-up Work Studentswhoareabsentforanyreasonarerequiredtomakeupworkmissedin each subject. Normally, one day will be allowed for each day missed, except in cases of prolonged absences where the teacher involved may make other provisions. Itisthestudent’sandtheparents’responsibilitytoobtainallmake-up work from his/her teacher. Failure to obtain make-up work is no excuse for not doing work missed. When tests are missed duetoanabsence,theyaretobe taken at the teacher’s convenience. Parents are responsible for making the necessary arrangements. Probation A student who is consistently unsatisfactory in achievement or, in the opinion of the teacher, is not making sufficient effort, will be placedonacademicprobation. The parents will be informed of this action. If the teacher and administration do not see marked improvement by the next grading period, the parents may be asked to withdraw the student or toenterhiminaspeciallydesignedprogramof study. A student will be automatically placed on academic probation upon receiving a “U” (grades 1-2) or an “F” (grades3-5)inanytwoacademicsubjects during a given quarterly grading period.
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Promotion Policy A studentwhofailsoneortwoacademicsubjectsmayproceedtothenextgrade onprobationiftheacademicdeficienciesaremadeupthroughsummerschoolor private tutoring (20 hours minimum). Parents are responsible for making these arrangementsandshowingproofofproficiencytothePrincipalbeforethestudent willbepromoted.Astudentwhofailsthreeormoresubjectsmustrepeattheentire grade. Physical Education Policy Concerning Absences and Illnesses Physicaleducationisrequiredofallstudents. Thereareoccasionswhenstudents have legitimate reasons for extended or temporary excuses from the regularly scheduled physical education program. Following are the policies approved by the administration of the school for such absences. Excused Absences Medical Excuses PermanentExcuses: Thesemustincludeadescriptionofphysicallimitationwhich would prevent participation of any kind; they will be kept in the student’s permanent file. ExtendedTimeExcuses: Thesearefornon-participationduringanextendedtime period because of temporary physical limitation (e.g., broken bones, surgery, severe illness) . Parental Excuses Parentalrequestscoveringaparticularminorailment (flu,colds,headaches,minor injuries) will be accepted for up to three consecutive days. Thereafter, medical excuses arerequired. Ifthefacultyseesapatterndevelopingwherebyastudent is habitually misusing this privilege, no excuses other than those validated by a physician will be accepted. Standardized Testing Comprehensive standardized tests are administered periodically to grades 3 through5.HeritageutilizesstandardizedtestswiththeBiblecomponent;scoringis done through the Association for Christian Schools International (ACSI), our accrediting entity. Students are given practice tests; sufficient preparation given by the teacher will make special efforts at home unnecessary,otherthanagood night’s sleep and a nutritious breakfast. Standardized tests measureastudent’s relative progress in essential skills in comparison to his or her anticipated progress, in comparison to the other students in that grade at Heritage and at other schools nationally.
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Student Activities and Field Trips Teachers arrange varied activities for student participation at each grade level. These activities include field trips, chapel services, assembly programs, athletic field day, and musical programs. Generally speaking, two fieldtripsareplanned each year for grades K-5 and are educationally driven. No student may attend suchatripwithoutasignedpermissionslip.Transportationwillbeprovidedbythe school’s bus. Admission charges, food, and drinks are paid by the student. Ideally, one adult chaperone is required for every 10 students. Parentswhowishtoaccompanytheirchildonfieldtripsshouldmakethisrequest totheteacherand transportthemselvestotheevent. Heritageunderstandsthe desire ofparentstoshareinthisactivitywiththeirchild;however, thenumberof parents per field trip is limited , since additional people impact the activity in various ways. Although the students are off campus during the activity, it is still considered a school function, and thestudentsareparticipatingasaclassunder the teacher’s direction. Parents are expected to assisttheteacherasrequested and function as part of the group at all times. Nosiblings, please. Student Records Theschoolmaintainsafileforeachstudent. Allstudentfilematerialsaretreated as strictly confidential and are available only according to the following policy: ● No report cards or student records will be released to parents or to another school if the family is delinquent in tuition paymentsorhasadebtofanykind with the school. ● Parents or guardians have the right to inspect and review all official records, files and data directly related to their child’s academic progress, including all material that is incorporated into their student’s cumulative record folder. ● Parental requests to inspectandreviewofficialrecordsrelatingtoachildshall be made in writing to the Principal. Such requests will be honored withinten school days following receipt of the request. All records will be reviewed or inspected in the presence of the Principal so that proper explanation can be given. Therewillbenoreleaseofastudent’spersonalrecords,files,oranydatainthose recordswithoutthewrittenconsentofparentorguardiantoanyindividual,agency, or organization other than the following: ● Staff members of the school who have a legitimate educational interest ● Court or law enforcement officials if the school is given a subpoena or court order ● Certain federal, state, or local authorities performing functions allowed by law
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● Officials of other schools in which the student intends to enroll. No records shall be transferred to another school without the initiation of such by the parentsorguardiansthroughasignedparentrecordsreleaseformsuppliedby either the sending or receiving school. Non-custodial parents have equal access to report cards, teacher conferences, etc . If the final judgment and/or settlement agreement stipulates otherwise, the custodialparentmustsubmitacopyofthatjudgmentoragreementtothePrincipal if the school is to comply. Such documents shall be placed in the student’s file. Whenever a request by a non-custodial parent is made for information, appearanceatateacher’sconference,etc.,thecustodialparentshallbepromptly notified by the school of the non-custodial parent’s request. Textbooks TextbooksareselectedbythefacultyandPrincipalonthebasisoftheirobjectives, suitabilitytoourestablishedcurricula,andappropriatenesstoaChristianschool’s mission for promoting andteachingtruth. WebelieveGodrequiresexcellencein allthings,andwestrivetogiveeachstudentthebestpossibleChristianeducation by utilizing an outstanding curriculum in each subject, coupled with a Christian worldviewactivelytaughtandappliedbyourteachersintheclassroom. Textbook costs are included in tuition. If a student damages a textbook, the parents are required to purchase a replacement copy. Ifastudentisabsent,his/herparentsshould notifytheschoolby8:00AM ofthe reason for the absence. Parents are requested to leave this information on the Attendanceline(913-681-7622option2)oremailtheteacherdirectly. Ifastudent is gone part of the day, he or she must be signed in by a parent or appropriate adult upon his/her return and walked to his/her classroom. For absence due to reasons other than illness or bereavement, the parents must bear the responsibility for class work missed. Absences Excused III. ATTENDANCE General Policy on Absence Excused absences include school days missed due to illness or death in the family. Certain family trips, medical appointments and other reasons may be excused if approved by the school prior to the absence. Students absent more than ten (10) days eachsemesterwillincuracademicpenalties. Thispolicymay be waived for an extended illness validated by a physician’s signature and approved by the Principal. Extraordinary circumstances, if approved by the Principal, may also result in the policy being waived. Students who exceed the
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limits will receivea3%deductionfromthequarterlygradeforeachclasssession missed in excess of the limit. Parents may elect to have the academic penalty rescinded by arranging for tutoringsessions. Heritageteachersmaybeavailablefortutoringataratesetby the teacher and paid directly to her/him. If a student is absent for three (3) consecutiveweeksormoreforillness,thefamilyshouldarrangeforaprivatetutor orhometeacher. Allexcusesaccompaniedbyaphysician’ssignaturemustbeon his/her letterhead and submitted within five (5) school days of the absence. Unexcused Absences with Parent Permission The Principal will make the final decision regarding whether the absence is excused or unexcused. A student who is unexcused with his/her parents’ knowledge may be required to make up the missed time as assigned by the Principal. Absences Due to Truancy Any classmissedforunexcusedreasonsduringtheschooldaywillresultina“0” for that class and for any related sessions missed (e.g.,tests, projects, quizzes). Early Dismissal from School Early dismissal will be granted for the same reasons allowable for excused absences. Parentsareencouragedtoscheduleappointmentswiththeirdoctoror dentist after schoolhours. However,iftheymusttakeplaceduringschoolhours, appointmentsshouldbemadeasearlyoraslateinthedayaspossible. Should an early dismissal be necessary, the parent should inform the teacher in advancebyemailorawrittennote. Ifthestudentwillbeinaspecialclass(art, music, etc.), the classroom teacher will furnish the special teacher with the note which authorizes early dismissal of the student. The parent is responsible for checkingtheirstudentoutontheiPadandpickingthemupfromtheclassroom. If the student returns the same day, the parent is responsible for checking the student back in on the iPad and returning the child to the appropriate classroom. Late Drop-off to/Pick-Up from School Promptness isexpectedinstudentattendanceatalltimes. Thepracticeofbeing on time teaches ourchildrengoodhabits,whilerespectingthetimeandeffortsof others. All times will be calculated by the school’s clock. Travel distances or parental work schedules are not acceptable excuses for consistent tardiness. Studentsshouldarriveintheirclassroomby8:10AMinordertobereadytobegin classat8:15. Anystudentarrivingafter8:20withoutpriorapprovalwillbecounted as tardy. Only four morning unexcused tardies will be without penalty each quarter. Should a fifth tardy occur, a conference will be scheduled by the classroom teacher for the parents, teacher,andPrincipal. Atthatmeeting,steps will be taken to eliminate the existing pattern of tardies.
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Allstudentsshouldbepickedupnolaterthan3:25PMbytheschoolclockonfull days,andby11:20AMonhalf-days. Aswithmorningdrop-offs,fourlatepick-ups willbewithoutpenaltyeachquarter. Shouldafifthlatepick-upoccur,theteacher mayrequestaconferencewithparentsandPrincipaltoaddresstheproblemmore specifically. Family Trips A student may be excused for family trips if this procedure is followed: ● A written request from parents to the teacher is submitted, outlining the requested dates at least one week prior to the requested dates. ● TheteacherwilladdcommentstotherequestandforwardittothePrincipalat the conclusion of the same day. ● The Principal will add comments to the request based on the comments received from the teacher. ● Therequestwillbereturnedtotheparents—viathestudents—bytheendof the next day. Students with low achievement,studentsnotcurrentintheirassignments, or students seeking to be absent during inopportune times during the school year (testing period, etc.) will be advised not to be absent. If a student’s absence has been excused for a family trip at a time other than a school-scheduledvacationtime,youmayrequesttheworkyourstudentwillmissif you notify the classroom teacher at least ten (10) school days in advance. Leaving Campus All students leaving campusmustbesignedoutbyaparentorappropriateadult. Any student leaving campus or absent from class without permission will be suspended from classes for one day. Release of a Student to Other than Custodial Parent/Guardian Heritage Christian Academy will take all reasonable steps to ensure, and safeguard, the safety of children while at school. No student will be released by a teacher during the day unless directed by a custodial parent orguardianbyphoneorinwriting. Emergencyformsincludeup to three names the custodial parent or guardian has designated to whom their child may be released. Should a written or personal request be made by a non-custodial parent for the earlyreleaseofachildintohis/hercare,sucharequestwillbehonoredonlywith the consent of the custodial parent through a school-initiated telephone conversation, or by receipt of instructions from the court. In the event that parents are going out-of-town without their child(ren), the custodial parents must notify the school of adult caretakers who will be
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responsible fortheirchild(ren). Thenames,phonenumbersandanyalternate procedures to be followed should be included in the notification. Withdrawals If a family decides to withdraw their child(ren), the Principal may conductanexit interview with the family to ascertainthereasonforthewithdrawalandtoremind the familythattheircontractcallsforthemtopaythefulltuitionforthatacademic school year. TheBoardmaywaivethisprovisionunderunusualcircumstances, such as loss of employment or relocation. The same policy applies if the child(ren) is dismissed by the Principal once classes have begun. IV. APPEARANCE AND DRESS Heritage Christian Academy is a uniformed school to ensure the neatness of its studentsandtoallowstudentsfromalleconomicbackgroundsthefreedomtobe themselves apart from the stress of competitive dress. Students are to be tidy, modestandwell-groomed. Studentsattendinganyschooleventorfunctionmust be appropriately dressed. Students are to wear the school uniform at all times; parentswillbeinformedbythePrincipalorteacherifdressotherthantheuniform is appropriate. PARENTSassumeresponsibilityfortheappearanceoftheir sonsanddaughterswithintheseguidelines. Weencourageparentstoput their child’s initials/names on clothing items for lost and found purposes.
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ELEMENTARY DRESS CODE
BOYS GIRLS
TOPS No jackets, coats or sweatshirts in the classroom; no layering
ALL STUDENTS Plain short- or long-sleeved polo-style knit shirt in solid burgundy, solid heather gray or white, tucked in. Plain or mock turtleneck in solid burgundy, solid heather gray or white, tucked in. White Oxford cloth shirt, tucked in. Burgundy cardigan*, v-neck sweater* or sweater vest* with HCA logo. Burgundy fleece zippered pullover* with HCA logo, worn with a uniform component underneath. No jackets or coats in theclassroom and th ere is no layering allowed, including on Spirit Days. Solid navy uniform shorts or pants (traditional style with no cargo pockets or decorative details, such as brads, grommets, etc.) No elastic around the ankles. Belt loops and belts are required for grades 4-5; belts must be plain and traditional in solid black, solid brown, or solid navy with a buckle. Pants or shorts should not be form-fittingbut should be uniform-style. K-2 nd GIRLS – all of above plus: Plaid* jumper or skirt worn with white short- or long-sleeved blouse with Peter Pan collar; solid navy skort, plaid* walking shorts or plaid* skort with uniform top tucked in. 3 rd -5 th GIRLS – all of above plus: Solid navy uniform skort or skirt; plaid* skirt witha uniform top tucked in. Shorts (in solid navy or solid black) must be worn under jumpers and skirts. Regular dress shoes or athletic shoes appropriate in design, color and condition to the total uniform. All shoes must be closed toe. No light-up shoes, no sandals, slippers, boots, flip-flops, clogs or “Croc”-style shoes are permitted; boots can be worn for recess only, if needed. Socks or tights are to be worn at all times and must be solid white, solid gray, solid navy or solid black — no stripes or logos. Ankle-length leggings in solid white, solid gray, solid navy or solid black may be worn under jumpers and skirts and must be worn with socks. Capri-length leggings are not permitted. BOYS GIRLS Students are to keep their hair neat, well-groomed, and in styles appropriate to a uniformed school (no bleaching, dyeing, Mohawks, etc.) Boys’ hair should be
BOTTOMS Shorts, skorts, skirts and jumpers should be no shorter than 2 inches above kneecap and no longer than at the top of the kneecap
*Plaid items, sweaters, vests and fleece pullovers must be purchased from Lands’ End; all sweaters, vests and fleece pullovers must have the HCA crest embroidered on them. SHOES
SOCKS/LEGGINGS
HAIR
Girls’ hair styles and accessories should be modest and tasteful. Headbands should be small in black, burgundy, gray, navy or matching ‘uniform’ plaid. Headscarves and headbands with large flowers are not permitted.
above the eyebrows, off the collar and no longer than the earlobe.
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BOYS
GIRLS
JEWELRY
No pierced earlobes or body piercing is
Girls may have pierced earlobes; no other body piercing is allowed. Overly large or dangly earrings are a safety hazard so are not permitted. Students may wear a watch on their wrist at school – no Smart Watches; bracelets or wristbands are not allowed; exception Kindness Counts. No necklaces.
permitted. No wristbands or necklaces.
BOYS
GIRLS
SPIRIT DAYS
Students have the option to wear HCA t-shirts or sweatshirts on Fridays which are designated as Spirit Days. Any changes to this schedule will be communicated by the teacher or school office. Spirit wear is offered for sale from an approved vendor periodically throughout the school year; only the spirit wear from this vendor is approved for Spirit Day wear. HCA sweatshirts are allowed in the classrooms on Spirit Days only.No layering allowed and uniform bottoms muststill be worn.
DRESS UNIFORM FOR FALL PICTURE DAY/ GRANDPARENTS’ DAY/ SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Boys – solid navy long pants, white long-sleeved polo, oxford cloth shirt, or a turtleneck and school sweater or vest with logo embroidered on it.
Girls - plaid jumper with Peter Pan-collared blouse OR plaid skirt/skort with long-sleeved white polo or turtleneck and school sweater or vest (solid navy skirt/skort may be worn as an alternative when student does not own plaid).
VENDOR INFORMATION Note: We encourage parents to put their child’s initials/names on clothing items for lost and found purposes.
All sweaters, vests, plaid and fleece items must be purchased through Lands’ End. All sweaters, vests and fleece items must have the HCA crest embroidered on them. Logo embroidery is available through Lands’ End. Other components are available at Lands’ End and JC Penney. Lands’ End – www.landsend.com – 1-800-landsend; Preferred school no. 9000-5864-5 HCA crest embroidery available on purchased items only; logo numbers 0642063K & 1618314
** SOLID =NOVARIEGATION INFRACTIONS -Theadministrationreservestherighttointerpretthedresscode toensureappropriateness. Itistheparents’responsibilitytoensuretheirstudents are in compliance with the dress code. Should a student be non-compliant, the parents may need to bring appropriate clothing before the student may re-enter the classroom.
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V. STUDENT CONDUCT Personal Virtues
Our goal should always be to live the Scriptures, which say, “So then, whatever youdo,whetherinwordordeed,doalltothegloryofGod.” Inthebestinterestof the entire school community, and so that we might all live happily together, and function as smoothly as possible, certain guidelines of conduct must be maintained by all students of Heritage, both on and off campus. The following personal virtues are required of all students and serve as the social code regulating community life at Heritage: ● Kindness ● Truthfulness ● Respect for and courtesy towards the person and property of others ● Punctuality in attendance and work ● Respect for and obedience to those in authority ● Diligence in effort and attention In addition, the following are rules to be obeyed: Abstain both on and off campus from the use or possession of alcoholic beverages,tobacco,drugs and otherundesirablepracticeswhicharegenerally recognized to be harmfultohealthandChristiancharacter. Anystudentfoundin violation of this rule while on campus, while on a school-sponsored trip, orwhile attending a school-sponsored function, will be automatically expelled. Abstain from profanity and vulgar or abusive speech or actions. Such speaking and acting are harmful to others and certainly not appropriate nor conducive to one’s own moral and spiritual development. Any student using profane, vulgar language or who is physically or emotionally abusive may be suspended on the first offense. The second offense will result in amoresevere suspension, and the third will result in expulsion. Expulsion can be administered surpassing the previous process if the situation merits. Thechewingofgumisnotallowedduringschoolhours. It is not a healthy habit, and it is an unpleasant, difficult and expensive task when others have to remove the gum from desks, chairs and carpeting. Leave all annoying or dangerous items at home, such as any weapons (including pocket knives), water pistols, fireworks and matches. Electronicdevicescanonlybebroughttoschoolwhenpermissionhasbeen granted by a teacher or Principal. Phones must be turned off and left in backpacksandlockersuntilthestudentleavesthebuildingattheendofthe day. StudentsarenotpermittedtowearSmartWatchesatHCAduringthe school day. Fitbits or similar health monitoring devices are permitted. Doyourownwork. Donotcheat. HonestyisaChristianvirtuetobedisplayed by all students. Students should not give or receive help on tests or homework unless the teacher has granted this privilege on a particular project. Each
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student’s record is to reflect his or her own individual effort. Cheating is a very seriousoffense,whetheryougiveorreceiveinformation. Cheatingand/orcopying willresultina“0”fortheworkandaconferencewiththestudent’sparents. During atest,quizorexam,itisthestudent’sresponsibilitytoavoideveryappearanceof cheating. All books and papers must be out of sight and no talking is allowed. Do not steal. Stealing will be dealt with severely,including possible expulsion. Discipline Methods DisciplineisGod’smethodofmaturingeachofus. Aproperresponsetoitresults in our blessing; to ignore it is foolishness. AsaChristianschool,itisourtaskto provide the proper learning environment for students. It is the student’s responsibility to make a commitment to live within the rules and regulations that are necessary for all of us to function together each school day. The discipline strategy at Heritage is consistentfromgradetograde. Thegoalofourdiscipline policy is to develop mature, Christian character in each of our students by ensuringthattheytakepersonalresponsibilityfortheiractions,byapplyingBiblical standardstoevaluaterightandwrongandbydetermininganappropriateplanfor future action. Students who do not correct wrong behavior will experience consequences for their actions. Discipline Referral A Discipline Referral may be issued to students whoviolateclassroomorschool rulesandpolicies. Thesereferralswillstatethemisconductinvolved,themethod used to correct the behavior, and any further comments regarding the discipline procedure. This referral must be signed by the student’s parentsandreturnedto If a teacher finds it necessary to send a student from the classroom because of flagrantviolationofclassroomrulesordisruptivebehavior,thestudentistoreport immediately to the Principal with a referral from the teacher. To bereinstatedto class,thestudentmustconferwiththePrincipalandtheteacherconcerned. The student will not be readmitted to class until there is some evidence that improvement is forthcoming. Detentions Students may be served detention duringlunchand/orrecessbytheclassroom teacher as a disciplinary measure. Students may also be detained by the Principal for other reasons deemed appropriate. Suspended Attendance Astudentmaybesuspendedfromclassesforinappropriateactionsorattitudesor repeated infractions of school regulations. Parents will benotifiedpersonallyand always in writing of the reasons for the suspension.Asuspendedstudentwillbe school the following day. Dismissal from Class
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reinstated to class after consultation with both the student and parents, with assurancefromthemthatsuchbehaviorand/orattitudeswillbediscontinued,and that the student will assume his/her place in the school community with a cooperative and happy spirit. All assignments, tests or exams missed during the suspension must be made up. One-day suspensions may be served on the school premises in a designated location. Suspended students must come prepared to study all day. Multi-day suspensions will be administered forrepeatedoccurrenceoftruancyor leaving campus without permission, forged signatures, excessive tardies, and, if expulsion does not occur, for the use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs or other undesirablepracticeswhetheronoroffcampus,possessionoruseofweaponson campus, or other serious breaking of expected patterns of behavior. These suspensions will normally be served off campus. A family delinquent 60 days in making tuition payments (and have not otherwise made arrangements with the administration) will result in their student being suspended from classes untilthe account is satisfied. Expulsion When a student is expelled, both he/she and his/her parents shall be notified in personandinwritingastothereasonsfortheexpulsion.ThePrincipalalonehas the authority to expel a student and may do so for any reason he/she deems necessary, with or without the consent and/or agreement of theparents.Parents areresponsibletopaythefulltuitionfortheacademicyearinwhichthestudentis dismissed. Thestudentandhis/herparentsmayappealtheircasetotheschoolboardonlyif the evidence upon which the decision HCA made is possibly inaccurate or insufficient. The appeal shall be in writingandshallbepresentedtothePrincipal withinthree(3)daysoftheexpulsion.Adecisionwillbemadeinaspeciallycalled board meeting, and only the parent, guardian, or a member of the school board may represent the student’s case at that meeting. The school board’s decision shall be final. A student who has been expelled or withdrawn for disciplinary reasons normally may be considered for re-enrollment and re-admission to the school only at the beginning of a new school year. Expulsion may result from serious departure from school policies or expectations forstudents,includingbut not limited to the following: ● Repeated misconduct ● Failure to respond positively to repeated efforts at correction by the School’s personnel ● Aseriousbreachoftheschool’scodeforstudentconduct,includingtheuseor possessionofdrugsand/oralcohol,whetheronoroffcampus,andweapons; secreting the same at any place on the school grounds ● Threateningorbringingharmtothepersonorpropertyofateacher,Principalor
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staff member ● An action orattitudethatseriouslyharmstheNameofChristandtheSchool’s reputation in the community, or an attitude not in harmony with the goals and spirit of same ● AnyactionbyaparentorguardianwhichseriouslyinterfereswiththeSchool’s ability to accomplish its educational purposes ● VI. HEALTH AND SAFETY Medication Policy Non-Prescription/Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medication The School does not administerOTCmedicationtostudents. Parentshave the choice of coming to schoolandadministeringitthemselvesorsendingitwith students with written, signed instructions. School staff members are not The self-administration of medicine for the treatment of anaphylactic reactions or asthma is allowed for all students. Students who need to self-administer PRN(asneeded)allergyorasthmamedication(inhalants,meds, EpiPen) will have these medications or devices kept in the first aid kit of the appropriate classroom. Parents should sign the Student Annual Health responsible for students taking OTC medications. Self-Administration of Allergy/Asthma Medication Information Sheet at the beginning of each school year. It is the parents’ responsibility to ensure that these devices/medications are up-to-date. Also, parents should send extra medication/devices from home with students onfield trips or other off-campus school-sponsored activities. Medication/devices will be sent home with the student at the end of the school year. Prescription Medication A student is eligible to take medication at school if it is to be given more than 3 times a day. If possible, medication administration at school is strongly discouraged. When your child must have prescription medication of any type (over-the-countermeds,inhalersordailymeds)duringschoolhours,youhavethe following options: ● Discuss with your doctor an alternative schedule of medication administration so it can be given outside the school hours. ● Whenthemedicationisprescribedthreetimesdaily,yourchildshouldbegiven the medication before coming to school,afterreturninghomefromschooland before bedtime. ● You may come to school and administer the medication yourself. Illness or Injury Should a student become ill or receive an injury while at school, he/she will be aidedbytheclassroomorspecialsteacher. Firstaidwillbeadministeredandonly medication provided by the parent with specific instructions will be given. Studentswhoaresenthomeorwhoareabsentfromschoolduetoillness
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