Family atmosphere Christ-like attitude Academic excellence

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Instilling Christ- Igniting Hearts- Impacting Education

2017 – 2018

PARENT & STUDENT HANDBOOK

7032 TEMPLE TERRACE HIGHWAY

TEMPLE TERRACE, FLORIDA 33637

(813) 899-6800

PARENTS – Please read the handbook and sign the last page as a commitment to the standards set forth by the Academy. The signed form includes all expectations of the information set forth including the uniform policy, detention policy, code of conduct, after school responsibility form, and the athletic program. The Signature form is to be returned to the homeroom teacher on the first day of school.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome to Florida College Academy! 4

Vision Statement - Mission Statement 6

ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT 7

Admissions Information 8

Health Examinations 9

Immunizations 8

Daily Health Regulations 9

Medication Policy 9

General Attendance Policy 10

Excused/Unexcused Absences 11

Middle School Class Attendance 12

Make-Up Work 12

Daily Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures 13

Tardiness to School 13

Signing In and Out 15

CHAPEL ………………………………………………………………………………..16

Telephone 17

Lockers 17

Materials Not Allowed in School 18

SYCAMORE 18

Communication Folders 18

Academics 18

Honor Roll 19

PROMOTION POLICY……………………………………………………………….19

Parent Conferences 19

Access to the School Records 20

Media Center Information 20

Athletic Program 20-22

Dress Code for Boys / Dress Code for Girls 22-24

Winter Wear 25

PE wear for Middle school 25

Special Occasion Wear 25

Volunteers, Chaperones and Guests 25

Parent / Visitor Dress / Code of Conduct 25-27

EARLY MORNING SUPERVISION FEE…………………………………………....28

Signed Contract 29

Dear Parents:

Welcome to all our new families and returning families. We thank you for entrusting your children to us at Florida College Academy, a fully accredited private school. Selecting a school for your child to attend is a major decision. All of us with children understand the thought, concerns and prayer that go into making such a decision. Those of us who make up the Florida College Academy team will do all that we can do to fulfill your desire for a special educational setting for your child.

Most schools focus entirely on the academic side and provide clubs and athletics to complete what they feel is a well rounded education. Certainly we have those concerns and it is our goal to provide an academic program where each student is challenged and experiences success. But, if that is all we do, then we would close the doors. It is a shame for a person to go from Pre-K through their senior year in high school and not understand what is most important. It is our intention to have every child upon leaving Florida College Academy to understand the purpose of life. If we have missed this, then we have missed what is most important. We read in Luke 2:52 “ And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and [x]stature, and in favor with God and men.” It is our intent to model the passage commending Jesus. Each employee will seek increase in wisdom and in favor with God and men. We will seek to do the same with each of our students.

Please read through the handbook carefully. There are critical changes from some of the former policies. The last page is to be signed and returned to the school no later than August 11. It asserts the parent/guardian’s understanding and agreement to the expectation we have for all of the students. This is an enrollment requirement.

We are thrilled that you are part of our school community. Feel free to contact me by telephone, email, or in person with your questions or concerns. It is my desire for all who work at the academy to provide an educational setting that is truly student centered.

Yours,

Lynn Wade

Lynn Wade

Welcome to Florida College Academy!

Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year at Florida College Academy! The teachers and staff are happy to have you as part of the FCA community. We hope that this year will be a challenging and successful year for your child.

Close cooperation between the school and home is essential to promote the best interests of the child. One of the first steps that you can take to ensure that this year is a positive experience is to read carefully through this handbook as a family and discuss the information included. If you need any further clarification on any item, please contact the school and we would be glad to meet with you.

As the school year begins, it is important for you to know our expectations for all the students at FCA.

To attend FCA is a privilege and not a right. The Core Values of FCA are not to be taken lightly and are to be followed by every person to remain as part of the FCA family. Adults are to address modestly on the campus as well as at all FCA events. Clothing with what our standards would deem as inappropriate words, phrases or graphics are not permitted.

The code all students are expected to follow is stated below.

• We expect you will demonstrate a respect for God in your manner and conversation.

• We expect all students to participate in Chapel.

• We expect you will work to the best of your ability.

• We expect you will treat others with dignity and respect.

• We expect that you will obey all the rules set forth by your teachers and the school.

• We expect that you will work to keep a positive relationship with parents, teachers, school staff and friends.

• We expect you to accept the academic challenge and learn new things.

• We expect that you will represent your family and the school in an outstanding manner.

We look forward to working with you to ensure a successful and rewarding year.

Core Values

Reverence for God

Respect for others

Responsibility for all of one’s actions

Vision Statement

Florida College Academy seeks to provide a:

Family atmosphere where everyone is safe, caring and involved

Christ-like attitude expected of everyone

Academic performance that averages at least two years above grade level for the graduating class

Mission Statement

Academic Excellence in a Spiritual Environment

All adults, parents, students and visitors, who interact or enter the FCA campus, are expected to comply with the Vision and Mission and Core Values of the school. This is the expectation at every FCA function on and off the campus. By signing the agreement on the last page, every parent commits to the standards and expectations. To not do so, violates the agreement for enrollment and places in jeopardy the student attending at FCA.

Philosophies and Objectives

FCA seeks to nurture the spiritual, emotional, physical, and developmental needs of all its students. Therefore, FCA will provide:

• separate, yet integrated, academic levels of Pre-K, primary, and middle school

• coordinated transitions between the levels of FCA and other schools

• a positive, welcoming environment with clearly stated expectations and guidelines

• an environment of courtesy with regard to race, nationality and gender

• on-site medical care for minor wounds and medication administration

• opportunities for school, parent, and community sponsored events and extra-curricular activities

FCA seeks to foster intellectual growth at all grade levels. Therefore FCA will maintain:

• a rigorous curriculum including instruction in mathematics, English, social studies, and science, as well as Bible, foreign language, art, music, physical education and health, and technology.

• well trained, educated and certified teaching faculty

• a focus on creative thinking, critical reasoning, and effective communication skills

• admissions, placement, diagnostic, and standardized testing

• communication with parents via evaluations (progress reports), email, telephone, conferences, and newsletters

• opportunities for staff to participate in continuing professional development programs

• educational support such as libraries and computer laboratories

• appropriate levels of books, teaching materials, and equipment

FCA seeks to maintain a strong governance model to ensure optimal operation of the school. The school principal, under the authority of the Florida College Board of Directors and the President of Florida College, will:

• maintain an enthusiastic, positive, highly educated and skilled faculty

• develop the policies by which the school is administered

• promote good public relations for the school

• appoint committees as needed

Admission Information

Admissions Policy

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

To be a student at Florida College Academy is a privilege and not a right. A person’s respect for God, and others, satisfactory academic progress and appropriate behavior are minimum expectations. Students new to the school are on a probationary status for the first six months to determine if they intend to adhere to the standards. Violations in behavior, ongoing attitude or academics will jeopardize a student remaining a student at the academy even after the six month probationary period.

Admission Requirements

Pre-Kindergarten: A child whose fourth birthday is on or before September 1st is eligible to enter Pre-Kindergarten for that school year.

Kindergarten: A child whose fifth birthday is on or before September 1st is eligible to enter Kindergarten during that school year.

First Grade: A child whose sixth birthday is on or before September 1st and who has proof of successfully completing Kindergarten is eligible to enter First Grade during the school year.

Parents and students are to meet with the school principal as the first step for enrollment consideration.

Evidence of Date of Birth

Before admitting a child to Pre-K, Kindergarten, or First Grade, the Principal shall require evidence that the child has attained the appropriate entrance age. A birth certificate is the most acceptable evidence of age. If a birth certificate is not available, legal proof of age is required.

Health Examinations

Every child entitled to entrance to Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten or entitled to any other initial entrance to a Florida school (Pre-K – 12) shall present a certificate of a school entry health examination performed within one year prior to enrollment into a Florida school.

A pupil shall be exempt from this requirement only upon written request of the parent or guardian stating objections on religious grounds.

Any student seeking to enroll at FCA with 3 behavior or conduct markings within one grading period will not be accepted.

Health Regulations

Immunizations

The student’s immunization record must indicate that the following minimum requirements have been met:

( - Proper immunizations are required.

( - Preferably MMR.

DPT – Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus Immunization

OPV – Oral Polio Immunization

MMR – Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Immunization

Number of Required Doses

| |DPT |OPV |MMR |Hepatitis B |Measles Vaccine |Tetanus-Diphtheria Booster |

| | | | |Vaccine | | |

|Pre-School |( |( |( |( | | |

|K – 4th Grade |5 |4 |2 |3 | | |

|5th – 6th Grade |5 |4 |2 | | | |

|7th Grade | | | |3 |( |1 |

|8th – 12th Grade |5 |4 |2 | | | |

Daily Health Regulations

Physical examinations are required for entering Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten and for any child in any grade entering Florida College Academy for the first time. Parents should advise the office of any allergies, physical problems, or other health-related information which may be important in an emergency or cause problems in a student’s daily activities. Parents are asked to notify the school immediately upon learning that their child has communicable disease or condition such as measles, mumps, head lice, or chicken pox. The school nurse will assist students who become ill or injured during the school day. In case of an emergency, the parents and/or physician will be notified immediately.

Medication Policy

Our policy provides that the school nurse or other school employees are to administer medication to students during school hours should medication be necessary to keep a student in optimum health and maintain maximum school performance under the following conditions:

Prescription Medication

The school must receive a written request to administer a prescription medication from the parent, legal guardian, or other person having legal control of the student. The medication must be in the original container and properly labeled with content, student name, time, and dosage directions.

Non-Prescription Medication

The school must receive a written request to administer a non-prescription medication from the parent or legal guardian. Medication must be received in the clinic in the original container and properly labeled with content, student name, time, and dosage directions. All medications must be kept in the clinic. Students will NOT be allowed to carry medications.

* In the event that the school nurse, in exercise of professional judgment, questions the administering of any particular medication, as excessive or otherwise potentially harmful to the student, the nurse shall notify the parent or guardian.

General Attendance Policy

Florida College Academy and its staff have the students and their academic and personal development as our top priority. Daily attendance to class is essential to their development and academic success. Excessive absences, even if excused, have serious academic consequences as important instruction time with the teacher is missed. Absences on test dates or due dates for assignments create significant problems for both students and faculty members.

All absences or early dismissals will be recorded as unexcused until a signed note or phone call from the parents or legal guardians is received by the teacher or office. Notes or phone calls for excused absences must be received by the day the student returns. Absences or early dismissals will only be excused if it falls within one of the excused categories or has been preapproved by the Administration. Absences needing pre-approval must be submitted to the Administration at least three (3) days in advance. Students are not to return to school until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours. In the case of head lice, students are allowed to return to the classroom until NO lice or eggs are found by office personnel and a parent is present.

All students are expected to take mid-term and final exams during the scheduled times. Exams will not be given early.

Florida College Academy will provide for an Attendance Review Committee composed of the Principal and two other staff members to review all attendance records. Parents will be notified when absences exceed 5 within a grading period. Mandatory conferences will be required with the Principal, teachers, and parents if a student’s absences exceed 10 within a grading period or 15 within a semester. The Attendance Review Committee shall provide for a hearing, which shall consist of an oral presentation by the student, his/her parent, or other appropriate representatives.

The Florida School Law regarding Compulsory Attendance, Section 232.01 reads as follows:

All children who have attained the age of six years by February 1 of any school year or who are older than six years of age but have not attained the age of sixteen years…are required to attend school during the entire school year. The parent who refuses or fails to have a child attend school…shall be guilty of a misdemeanor in the second degree, punishable by law. The continued absence of a child without consent of the Principal or the teacher…shall be evidence of a violation of this chapter.

When a student’s absence for personal illness reaches five (5) consecutive days, the student shall present a statement from a physician or health clinic verifying the illness or other condition requiring the student’s extended absence from school. The Attendance Committee may, if the student has established a questionable pattern of absences, also require a physician’s or clinic’s statement of illness after a single day’s absence as a condition of classifying the absence as one for which there are extenuating circumstances. Students who display a pattern of nonattendance may be required to present medical evidence.

Students who are absent over 35 days of a school year will be required to repeat that grade level.

The following extenuating circumstances may be considered in reviewing excessive student absences:

1. Medical or dental appointments/issues

2. Family emergencies or unforeseen or unavoidable instances requiring immediate attention

3. Approved student visitations

4. Days of suspension

5. Late enrollment and/or early withdrawal

6. Other circumstances deemed appropriate by Committee Review members

Excused Absences

Any child not exempt from compulsory school attendance may be excused for temporary absence resulting from:

1. Personal illness – A doctor’s note is required

2. Accident resulting in injury to the student

3. Illness or death in the family

4. Quarantine – A doctor’s note is required

5. Weather or road conditions making travel dangerous/road emergencies

6. Observing a religious holy day

7. Required court appearance

8. School business (shadowing, etc.)

9. Preplanned absences for personal reasons submitted in writing and approved by the Principal at least three days in advance of the planned absence

Students are required to provide a note or phone call from a parent or guardian for each absence for it to be excused. This note is to include the student’s name and grade, reason for absence, telephone number of parent or guardian, and the signature of parent or guardian. If the student does not bring a note for being absent, the absence will be counted unexcused. Time allowed for makeup work is equal to the number of days absent, unless special permission is granted for extenuating circumstances. Appeals against decisions made regarding excused/unexcused absences must be submitted to the office in writing. The Attendance Review Committee will review the appeal and meet with the parent when needed.

As stated earlier, absences needing pre-approval must be submitted to the administration at least three (3) days in advance. We have what seems to be a large number of families who plan various trips during the school year which impact the school schedule. FCA will permit a total of 5 school days during the school year for extenuating circumstances involving trips. More than five days will be considered unexcused.

Teachers will not provide school work for students to take with them when they are missing school. All work is to be made up according to the stated procedures.

Unexcused Absences

All absences are considered unexcused unless a note is provided with the cause and approved. Even with a note, absences for the following will not be excused:

1. Suspensions

2. Oversleeping

3. Avoiding tests or due dates for assignments/unpreparedness

4. Non-educational or non-medical appointments

5. Vacation (unless pre-approved)

Students will receive zeroes for work missed, including quizzes and tests, during unexcused absences per class or for the day. Quizzes and tests will not be allowed to be made up and projects/assignments due on those days will be counted late.

Three unexcused absences (including those accumulated from tardies) can disqualify a student from participation in athletics or other extracurricular activities for the grading period in question.

Middle School Class Attendance

Students in grades 6-8 in attendance for any part of the day are counted present for the day, but will be counted absent for any class missed. Students must be present for at least one-half of the class period to be counted present for that class. Individual class absences will be categorized as excused or unexcused.

In PE, if an absence is recorded as unexcused, students will lose daily participation points and will not be able to make up the missed assignments in each class that is missed, even if present for other parts of the day.

Make-Up Work

Students will be given the opportunity to complete make-up work for all excused absences. They have the number of days equal to the number of days absent to complete and hand in such work. In the event of extenuating circumstances, additional time to make-up assignments missed may be granted. Failure to turn in work or make-up work within this time shall result in the student receiving late or no credit for work missed.

Students will be allowed to request makeup work ahead of time as long as teachers have at least one (1) entire school day to prepare the work. In instances where there is an extended absence for more than three (3) days, parents may arrange with the classroom teacher(s) to pick up missed work at appropriate intervals, as designated by the teacher. In all cases, teachers must be allowed at least one (1) entire school day to prepare makeup work in advance.

Students are responsible for obtaining the assignments missed during their absence. It is the responsibility of the student to contact teachers immediately to schedule make-up dates for assigned quizzes, tests, and papers. If a student has an excused absence for only a test day or due date, the missed work is to be completed/turned in on the date the student returns to school unless there are extenuating circumstances.

Students missing school due to suspension will NOT be allowed to make up tests or work missed.

School Hours

Pre-K - 2nd 7:50 a.m. – 2:40 p.m.

Grades 3 – 8 7:50 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Homeroom begins at 7:45am. Students are considered tardy if they arrive in their homeroom after 7:50am. The student day ends at 3:00pm. Pre-K through 8th grade begin moving to the cafeteria at 7:55am for chapel. This is considered a vital part of the student’s day and is not a grace period for being late. Faculty supervision is provided from 7:30am to 3:15pm. If supervision is needed prior to 7:30am, the arrangements must be made with the school and there will be a fee. Refer to page 32. The building will not be open for parents or students prior to 7:30am. All students must report to the cafeteria in the morning upon arriving prior to homeroom.. All students must wait in the classroom for their rides in the afternoon until 3:15pm. Any student not picked up by 3:15pm each day will be signed into Aftercare that day and will be charged unless they are participating in a school event immediately following dismissal. Additionally, students will be charged for Aftercare if they remain at school waiting for an event that starts at 4:00pm or later or if they are not picked up promptly when their after school event ends.

** NEW TARDY PROCEDURES **

• All students are to be seated in homeroom no later than 7:50.

o After the 3rd tardy within a grading period there will be an email reminder regarding the importance of being punctual.

o The 5th tardy within a grading period will result in an Out of School Suspension.

o After the tenth tardy within a grading period the student will be dismissed from FCA.

▪ There will not be a distinction between excused and unexcused tardies.

▪ An appeal process is available.

Daily Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures

A specific pattern for dropping off and picking up students is essential for safety. All cars should enter at the traffic light at the corner of Temple Terrace Highway and Temple Park Drive. The entrance gate is at the back and is clearly marked. The speed limit is five miles per hour and no one is to exit the car unless in the marked pick-up/drop-off lane. All traffic must wind through this lane in consideration of student safety. Any student who is picked up or dropped off from the parking lot must be accompanied to and from the building by a parent or guardian. The exit gate is at the left of the stop sign and leads traffic back to the traffic light. Visitor parking is available by the volleyball and basketball courts in marked spaces only.

** RATIONAL FOR THE CHANGE IN DROP OFF AND PICK UP PROCEDURES **

A situation occurred the last few weeks of the 2016-2017 school year that required a closer look at procedures that effect the safety of students. Even though it was an isolated incident, we cannot run the risk of it happening again. The tightening of the arriving of students entering the facility in the morning as well as the dismissal procedures are not meant to be an inconvenience but are simply added as safety precautions.

The front and back doors will be locked. This includes during the time of arrival and dismissal.

The front of the school is only for visitors and the pick up of students during the day.

** NEW DROP OFF AND PICK UP PROCEDURES **

• All students are to be dropped off in the back car line.

• The front will only be for students who arrive as tardy.

• No students are to be checked out in the front for dismissal after 2:15.

• All sport teams will be assembled by the front gate supervised by school personnel for signing them out.

• All parents are not to enter the building in the front or back at dismissal unless there is an after school conference.

• Students will be called to the back via walkie talkie to meet the parent

Back of School

Temple Terrace Highway

Student Drop off

If your child is to be picked up by anyone during normal dismissal time that is not on your child’s emergency release form, we require a signed note the day of informing us of the arrangements. This includes early release days when some parents may be picking up multiple children for social outings. We will not release your child to an unauthorized adult without your permission.

Tardiness to School

Helping students to become more responsible citizens is an important goal at Florida College Academy. Therefore, promptness to school and class is expected. Students arriving in homeroom after 7:50am are considered tardy and must sign in at the school office.

Checking In and Out Procedures

Signing In and Out

No student may leave school without permission. All students leaving or returning to school during the day must sign in and out in the office. The school keeps a record of those allowed to sign out each student. All adults will be asked to present ID upon asking to sign out a child and will be verified against the list submitted by each child’s parents or guardians. Students will not be released to any adult not on the approved list without direct parental approval by note or a phone call. Parents may add names to the approved list throughout the year in person by submitting a copy of the person’s ID. In the case where students have multiple legal guardians, we cannot refuse to release any student to a parent or legal guardian unless we have the proper legal documents on file.

Students will not be allowed to be signed out after 2:15. If your child has an appointment they must be signed out prior to 2:15.

Early dismissals will also be categorized as excused or unexcused (see the comprehensive list for both on pages 11-12). Parents will be required to indicate a reason upon requesting an early dismissal. If it is unexcused, students will not be allowed to makeup the work that will be missed for the remainder of the school day and will lose participation points in PE. Repeated unexcused early dismissals will result in lower academic grades, especially for middle school students. Three unexcused early dismissals equal one unexcused absence and can affect perfect attendance.

CHAPEL

Chapel is scheduled every day immediately following homeroom. This is how we begin our day. This is not considered a filler before classes begin. It is the time, we as a school, seek to reinforce our daily commitment to God, the giving of thanks, and a reminder of our daily focus. It is a planned time for all of us to demonstrate and reinforce Florida College Academy’s 3 Rs – Reverence for God, Respect for one another, and Responsibility for all we do. Chapel is not an extra but rather what we build the rest of the day around. Please seek to have your children on time and present.

The last Friday of every month we will have an additional Chapel at 2:20 p.m. It will be basically a singing of spiritual songs. All parents are welcome to be with us. Friday afternoon Chapel is not an extra. It is all about who and what we are. Children of God seeking to honor and praise him. We ask parents not to be checking their children out during Friday afternoon Chapel. It is not an early dismissal time.

We close Chapel with the pledge to the flag and a patriotic song.

We expect all students who are enrolled at Florida College Academy to participate in all aspects of Chapel. For a student to be enrolled at FCA is to agree on the values prescribed and promoted by the school.

Visitors

Students wishing to bring visitors to school must gain permission at least one day in advance from the Principal so that the teachers may be notified. Visitors will not be allowed unless prior permission has been granted. Upon arrival, students must register their guests in the office and obtain a visitor’s pass. Guests will not be admitted to class without the pass. Visitors are expected to follow their host’s class schedule and adhere to the same policies and procedures as all Florida College Academy students.

Parent Visitors

Florida College Academy wants all parents and families of its students to be involved in their child’s education. We welcome parent visitors during the school day, but we ask that they do not interrupt any academic activity or interfere with a teacher’s duties. Visitors to individual classrooms during instructional time, outside of volunteering/chaperoning, shall be permitted only with the Principal’s approval, and such visitors shall not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment. The principal may request identification from any person on school property and may ask any person not having legitimate business or who is causing a disruption to leave.

Parents are not to stop in the classrooms during the homeroom period or during dismissal time for spur of the moment conferences. This is a disruption to the teacher’s responsibility to all of the students and their duties. All teacher conferences are to be prearranged.

ALL VISITORS ARE TO BE DRESSED IN MODEST APPAREL WITH NO CLEAVAGE SHOWING OR IF YOGA OR LEGGINGS ARE WORN , A TOP OF DECENT LENGTH FOR MOEDSTY IS EXPECTED.

Telephone

The office phone may be used for immediate school business or an emergency only. Because of the large number of calls received by the school, parents are asked not to call with messages for their children unless there is an emergency.

Lockers

Each middle school student will be assigned a locker and is responsible for the content. The school assumes no responsibility for the contents of lockers. The school reserves the right to conduct locker checks at its discretion. Students should make full use of their lockers in order to safe guard their personal possessions. Books and other belongings should not be left in unattended areas at school. Students and parents should exercise careful judgment regarding cash, jewelry, and other valuables brought to school.

Lockers have had to be moved to the back porch of the school. The main building is now an elementary classroom facility with all middle school classes now in modular buildings. Students are to unlock their locker when they arrive in the morning and lock them prior to leaving at the end of the day.

Materials Not Allowed in School

There will be no radios, iPods, CD or tape recorders, electronic games or players, pagers, or e-readers with internet access allowed at school. Cell phones are permitted only after school to contact parents, but should not be used or in sight during the school day. If cell phones are visible or heard at any time during the day, they will be taken and returned to the student’s parent at the earliest opportunity. Trading cards of any kind are also not allowed. Administration reserves the right to update this list as new products become available. Students furnishing a radio or tape recorder for a class project must make arrangements with the teacher or principal for safe-keeping.

Communication with Parents

Sycamore Education

The school maintains a vital online communication site and all parents will receive information on logging in procedures to the site. Parents will be able to view their child’s grades, upcoming assignments and tests, and stay updated on school events in one convenient site. You will also receive email updates about school events and email your child’s teachers through the site.

Communication Folders

Every Thursday, students will bring home folders with school news, forms to be signed, report cards, and notices for the parents. Many teachers also use this folder to send home graded papers or other important information. The folder is to be signed and returned on Friday with any forms that need to be returned to school. Please check your child’s folder weekly as it often contains important information that must be reviewed by you. If you lose this folder, you may contact your child’s teacher.

Academics

Report Card and Grading Scale

At the close of each nine weeks period, a report is made to the parent and student indicating the grade earned in each subject taken as well as skills needing improvement. A letter grade is assigned each subject based on the following scale:

3rd – 8th Grade Kindergarten – 2nd Grade, Specials

Honor Roll

Honor Roll begins with the 3rd Grade.

Requirements for Honor Roll in 3rd – 5th grade are based on the following:

Principal’s Honor Roll: Must have all A’s and all E’s

Honor Roll: No less than 1 A in an Academic subject, with the remaining academic grades no less than B’s. All conduct grades and specials can be no less than an S.

Requirements for Honor Roll in 6th – 8th grade are based on the following:

Principal’s Honor Roll: Must have all A’s and all E’s

Honor Roll: No less than 1 A and no less than a B in all other curriculum areas. PE and elective must have an E. Conduct can have no more than 2 S’s, the rest being E’s with the overall/general conduct grade an E.

Report cards are issued every nine weeks and progress reports are issued at the mid-point of each grading period. The first three Report Cards will be available to parents on Sycamore. The last Report Card of the year is a paper copy. Parents will be notified about recognition programs for each grading period on the Sycamore Education website and in the Friday Folders.

Behavior throughout the school, including After Care and school events will be reflected on the Report Card conduct marks.

Any student who receives an In School or Out of School Suspension will not be permitted to receive either the Honor Roll or Principal’s Honor Roll Award for that grading period. Any student who receives either an In School or Out of School Suspension will receive a “D” or an “F” for Behavior. Behavior at FCA is paramount.

Promotion Policy – Middle School

To be promoted to the next grade, sixth and seventh grade students must pass English, mathematics, science and social studies.

To be promoted to the ninth grade, eighth grade students must successfully complete three middle school or higher level courses in English, mathematics, science and social studies.

The final word for retention rests with the Middle School Academic Committee.

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Open parent and teacher communication is crucial to a child’s success. Our teachers are open for conferences at your convenience throughout the year in addition to scheduled conferences nights in the fall and spring. We request that all conferences be scheduled in advance. Impromptu conferences before, during, and after school can leave a teacher unprepared or neglecting other assigned duties. Our teachers can be contacted by phone, at school, or through their email.

Access to the School Records

A student’s school records are private and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the school until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school. The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours by the parent/guardian with prior appointment.

Media Center

Our Library Media Center operates using an “open and semi-flexible access” program that allows student and teachers to use and enjoy the Media Center as the need and desire arises. It is our goal that the Media Center be a vital part of the instructional programs throughout the school. In addition, the mission of the media program is to see that all students and staff become effective users of ideas and information, to support the school’s curriculum and to help students become lifelong patrons of the library and lovers of reading.

At the beginning of each year, students will be assigned a library number and card. Each student will be allowed to borrow books from the Media Center according to the following loan policy:

|Grade Level |Number of Books and Time Allowed |

|Pre-K, Kindergarten, First Grade |1 book for 2 weeks |

|Second Thru Fifth Grade |2 books for 2 weeks |

|Middle School |2 books for 2 weeks, 3 with permission |

In addition to book check out, students may come to the Media Center for various activities which include browsing, centers, research, and computers with Teacher/Media Specialist permission. No student is to be working or browsing in the Media Center without supervision. The Media Center is open after school as long as a supervising Teacher or Media Specialist is present.

To help meet our goals, students may participate in many reading incentive programs throughout the year including Accelerated Reader, Sunshine State Young Readers, National Library Month, Read Across America, and various Book Fairs. Our media center is operated under the direction of a certified Media Specialist who encourages volunteers to help out in the media center all school year. Volunteer forms will be sent at the beginning of the school year.

Athletics

FCA is a member of the Brandon Christian Athletic League (B-CAL) with other private schools in the area. Students are able to compete in volleyball, soccer, cross country, basketball, golf, flag football, and participate in cheerleading. Students in grades 4 through 8 are eligible to try out if he/she meets the academic, attendance, and behavior requirements.

Our Athletics program at FCA would like to maintain a competitive atmosphere while promoting good sportsmanship, fair play, and a desire to learn. We want to win, but more importantly, we want to get better in the classroom, in relationships, in our conduct and in our achievements on the field /court. We believe behavior is more important than winning and being gracious when we do not win is a life lesson we hope to instill in our athletes.

Athletic Participation

To participate in sports or cheer, students must:

1. Try out and make the team in question

a. On the day of tryouts, a “C” average must be in place.

2. Earn no less than a ‘C’ in each class for the grading period the sport is played. For any week the student does not maintain a minimum of a ‘C’ average in a class, they will not participate in any athletic events until their average returns to at least a ‘C.’

3. Have no more than two (2) unexcused absences for the grading period.

4. Have at least satisfactory behavior. This includes no detentions or referrals to the office during the day of the tryout to the end of the season for that particular sport. Continual misbehavior in class that is less than satisfactory can prohibit a student from participating in sports for the week as determined by agreement between teacher and parent.

5. Have paid the athletic fee.

6. Be present on game day for at least the 2nd half of the school day, unless excused by the Administration.

Athletic Director, Coaches, and Staff Responsibilities

1. We will set an example of godly behavior for all of our athletes.

2. We will provide a schedule to you as soon as we receive this information from BCAL.

3. We will communicate to you any changes to the schedule as soon as we are notified.

4. We will communicate in advance dates and times for try outs, practices, and games.

5. We will communicate the cost associated with each sport in advance.

6. Provide practice opportunities for athletes to improve their skill set.

Parent Responsibilities

Once a student is selected to be on a team:

1. Pay all associated fees before a student can participate in practice or games.

2. Check your child’s Friday Folders and Sycamore every week for important updates to the athletic schedule and program

3. Provide transportation to and from practices and games or make arrangements with another parent in advance. If arranging a ride with another adult, you must submit a note to your child’s teacher the day of the event with the arrangements.

4. Go over with your child and sign the contract given to you in order for your child to participate in that sport.

*Most practices are held at the Academy, any athlete not picked up immediately after practice will be considered a part of the Aftercare program.

Our Coaches

Our coaches are usually teachers or parents who have an interest in sports, children, or just want to help. Please be considerate of this when approaching our coaches with problems or complaints. As the Bible instructs us to act in all situations, please approach our coaches gently and with respect. All major issues are to be addressed with the Athletic Director in the same fashion.

Our Expectations of Student Athletes

Students choosing to participate in athletics or any extra curricular activity have a greater responsibility to maintain their academic focus without disruption. We expect our student athletes to:

1. Maintain good attendance and tardy records.

2. Attend all mandatory practices unless excused by the coach.

3. Arrive at practices and games on time.

4. Maintain a ‘C’ average in each class/subject for each week he/she is participating in a sport.

5. Keep up with homework and projects and avoid missing assignments

6. Behave in an exemplary manner at school, off campus, and on the field.

7. Bring appropriate equipment or clothing for participation.

Teachers will be communicating with the Athletic Director regarding student academics and behavior. If any of these areas are not to standard, the athlete will lose the privilege of playing in the next game(s) as deemed appropriate by the Athletic Director and Principal.

A student who has made a team, and has paid the participation fee, is committed to that one sport for its season. Participation fees are used to pay expenses such as referee compensation and are non-refundable. If a student finds out shortly after making a team and paying the participation fee that current grades disqualify him/her, the fee is not refundable.

Transportation To and From Games

If a student participates on one of the school teams, it is the parents’ responsibility to work out the transportation to and from the game. If the flexibility does not exist in a parent’s schedule to pick up their child for the sporting event, then it is up to the parent to work out prior arrangements and provide a note to the school on the day of the game. For a student to approach a faculty or staff member of the Academy the day of the game and say “my parent said it is ok to ride with so and so” is not acceptable. A note from the parent with the arrangements stated including telephone contacts for both sets of parents is expected.

Dress Code

Rationale: Florida College Academy considers it to be an important function of the school to develop qualities of leadership and exemplary citizenship, while practicing Christ-like values. Because you have chosen our school to help foster these characteristics in your child, we expect your support regarding our dress code. The goal of this policy is to keep the disruptions and distractions to a minimum in the daily school environment, while promoting a sense of modesty among our students. With these considerations in mind, Florida College Academy’s policy concerning dress and grooming has been established using school uniforms, which may be purchased with the following guidelines.

Shirts are to be tucked in and belts worn in 3rd grade and above.

Uniform Suppliers

In order to improve the convenience of uniform buying, Southland Advertising has agreed to be our supplier for uniform shirts, jackets, sweatshirts and accessories. While Southland will be supplying sweatshirts and jackets, others will be allowed IF they are PLAIN and SOLID red, white or navy (no graphics or words of any size.) No hoods are to be worn in the building.

Southland will only be supplying the shirts and jackets. Pants, shorts, skorts and jumpers may be purchased at a retailer that carries school uniforms. Any of these stores are acceptable as long as purchases meet our criteria as listed on the following pages: Target, Walmart, Kmart, Sears, Land’s End, JCPenney (carries plus sizes, husky and slim,) Bealls or Bealls Outlet, Risse Brothers, Educational Outfitters and IQ Outfitters.

Since our policy now allows for more economical choices in uniforms, please be aware that if your child outgrows theirs during the school year, and they are not within the dress code, you will be required to purchase new ones.

Boys Dress Code Rules

1. Uniforms are to be worn daily unless otherwise stated.

2. Navy or khaki “uniform” type slacks or shorts (Docker style) are required. Flat front or pleated are acceptable. No cargo pants or shorts. Pants made like jeans or pants with any outside pockets are not allowed. No side pockets or zippers.

3. All shorts must touch the knee cap. This also applies to clothes worn on non-uniform days.

4. All pants and shorts must be worn at the waistline with a plain belt, if belt loops are present.

5. Red or royal blue FCA polo style shirts are to be purchased through the school from Southland at .

6. All shirts must be tucked in at the waist. All buttons must be buttoned except the top one.

7. On non-uniform days, shirts must be modest and appropriate. No sleeveless shirts allowed.

8. All jackets worn in the building must have the FCA logo or be PLAIN and SOLID red, white or navy (no graphics or words of any size). Hoods are not to be worn in the building.

9. Athletics shoes and socks must be worn for P.E.

10. Closed toed shoes must be worn. Backless shoes, sandals, or shoes with only a back strap are not allowed

11. Hair must be kept at a moderate length; conservative styles are expected. Hair is to not touch the eyebrows or the collar, no further than half way down the ear and neatly groomed. Mohawks or shaved heads are NOT acceptable. Unusual or extreme hair colors or styles are prohibited.

12. Hats may not be worn in the building without special permission.

13. Body piercing is prohibited.

14. Unusual, extreme or excessive jewelry is prohibited.

Girls Dress Code Rules

1. Uniforms are to be worn daily unless otherwise stated.

2. All pants, skorts, and shorts must be worn at the waistline with a plain belt, if belt loops are present.

3. Elementary girls may wear navy or khaki pants, skorts, shorts, or jumpers. Plaid jumpers or skorts may also be worn but must be “Cambridge” plaid (sometimes called hunter/classic navy plaid or #81 plaid). Belted/non-belted jumpers are allowed if they touch the kneecap.

4. Middle school girls may wear Navy or khaki pants or navy, khaki or plaid (#81) skorts only. Skorts must touch the knee cap.

5. Elementary and middle school girls may wear skirts ONLY if specified in description as “long”. These are well below the knee.

6. Skorts, shorts, and jumpers must touch the knee cap.

7. Red or blue FCA polo style shirts are to be purchased through the school from Southland at .

8. Elementary girls may wear White Peter Pan blouses underneath jumpers.

9. All shirts and blouses must be tucked in at the waist. All buttons must be buttoned except for the top one.

10. Navy or khaki “uniform” type slacks or shorts (Docker style) are required. No low rise pants, pants that are too tight, cargo pants/shorts, side pockets or zippers are allowed. Flat front or pleated are acceptable. Pants made like jeans or with any outside pockets are not allowed. Capri pants are allowed IF they are uniform type pants and are not too tight.

11. On non-uniform days, no low-rise pants or pants that are too tight. (This includes skinny jeans that are too tight). All shirts and blouses must be modest and appropriate. No sleeveless shirts or tank tops, shirts that are too tight, and absolutely no cleavage showing. THIS APPLIES TO ALL SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, ON AND OFF CAMPUS.

12. FCA personnel reserve the right to determine proper fit.

13. Proper undergarments are to be worn, but not visible, at all times.

14. Closed toed shoes must be worn. No backless shoes, sandals, or shoes with only a strap on the back are allowed.

15. Athletic shoes and socks must be worn for P.E.

16. All jackets worn in the building must have the FCA logo or be PLAIN and SOLID red, white or navy (no graphics or words of any size). No hoods are to be worn in the building.

17. Hairstyles must be conservative and not detract from the best possible learning environment. Unusual or extreme styles or colors are prohibited. Girls’ hairstyles should be appropriate for school. Hats may not be worn in the building without permission.

18. Body piercing is prohibited, excepting for earrings in the ear lobe. Unusual, extreme or excessive jewelry is prohibited.

Winter Wear

1. Solid navy, white or red turtle-neck shirts may be worn under FCA uniform shirt.

2. Solid white, navy or red sweat suits for students in grades Pre-K thru second grade are allowed.

3. Outer wear such as heavy coats, scarves, gloves, etc. for very cold days may be of any type or design but they must be removed upon entering the building.

4. You may purchase FCA sweatshirts or jackets through Southland. All other sweatshirts or jackets must be PLAIN and SOLID red, white or navy (no graphics or words of any size.) Hoods are not to be worn in the building.

PE wear for middle school

Middle school students are required to change for PE class. Shorts must be knee-length. An FCA PE shirt is required and available for purchase. Athletic shoes and socks must be worn.

Special occasions and formal dress

No dresses that are too tight may be worn. Dresses must touch the knee cap, cover the back (above a regular bra strap) and must have sleeves or straps that are at least 3 inches wide. Absolutely no cleavage may be shown. Special dress code may apply for Winterfest.

Volunteers, Chaperones and Guests

We expect all volunteers, chaperones and guests to respect our school philosophy and values by following the above dress code rules during all school functions, as well as helping us to enforce these rules with students.

Parent / Visitor’s Dress

Modest dress is expected for all who are on the FCA campus or attending an FCA sponsored event.

Therefore, extreme cleavage, tight clothing, or short shorts are not acceptable.

Code of Conduct

Florida College Academy makes your child’s safety and education our top priority. We strive to maintain a disruption-free learning environment that fosters Christ-like attitudes in our students and staff. We believe all students have the right to learn and all teachers have the right to teach distraction-free. To support this, we abide by the following code of conduct if behavior does occur during the school day or school activities that distract from our mission. Only those students who cooperate with the rules and regulations of the school will be permitted to attend FCA.

Any student while at FCA who earns 3 behavior or conduct marks within one grading period will necessitate a meeting with the school administration and the parents to determine if the student is to remain at FCA.

Students are responsible for understanding and abiding by the school/classroom rules and consequences and accepting responsibility for behaviors when they occur.

Parents are responsible for understanding what behaviors are expected, supporting the teacher’s enforcement of behavior standards, adhering to school rules and policies, and understanding the consequences to distracting/harmful behaviors should they occur.

Teachers and staff are responsible to appropriately and uniformly apply the conduct code to ensure that students are safe and educationally engaged, communicate with parents when issues do arise, and create a positive classroom environment of respect and praise.

Student Behavior Expectations

1. Show polite behavior, respect, and courtesy to all staff, parents, visitors, and students.

2. Be on time in attendance and with assignments.

3. Listen to and follow directions from all staff members.

4. Keep all areas of the building and grounds clean.

5. Stay on-task during class.

6. Treat fellow students with kindness and respect.

7. Consume all food and beverages in the cafeteria only, unless permission given.

Major Infractions that will result in suspension and possible expulsion

1. Direct and severe insubordination

2. Possessing or consuming alcohol, unauthorized drugs or tobacco products

3. Sexually inappropriate behavior

4. Possessing or accessing violent or sexually explicit media

5. False fire alarms and bomb threats

6. Fighting/intentionally harming another person

7. Humiliating, bullying or otherwise victimizing another student

8. Theft, extortion, damage or misuse of school property

9. Plagiarism and Cheating:

10. Actively lying or spreading rumors that jeopardize the reputation of other students/teachers

11. Possessing a weapon or anything that resembles or could be considered a weapon on school grounds Unless an officer of the law, parents are not permitted to bring weapons, even if concealed, within 500 yards of school property.

An official incident report will be written by the principal and a copy made available to the parent or guardian of the accused student. As a private school with a unique mission, FCA is not bound by many of the restrictions found in public schools. Due process is provided as a courtesy with the aim of ascertaining the full truth. However, decisions to enact punitive measures, such as suspension and/or expulsion, are not eligible for a formal hearing. The principal acts as the final authority and arbiter in cases of serious violations. Parents will be expected to cover the cost of any repair to school property as the result of intentional damage.

Minor Infractions that can result in disciplinary action

1. Excessive unexcused tardies and/or absences

2. Failure to complete assigned work

3. Continual classroom disturbances

4. Failure to bring assigned materials to school

5. Occurrences of PDA (public displays of affection)

6. Violations of the dress code

7. Chewing gum

8. Mistreatment of the school’s or another’s property

9. Bringing banned items to school (mp3 players, handheld electronic devices, skateboards, play weapons)*

10. Using a cell phone at any time other than allowed. Students are allowed to use their cell phones to contact parents only with permission in the presence of a staff member before or after school.*

* If we see or hear it, we take it. Confiscated items may only be returned directly to the owner’s parents.

Each classroom teacher will publish to parents his or her classroom management plan that will address day to day distractions and minor offenses. If any student continues to have behavior issues after classroom interventions have been used, the student will be subject to detentions and/or referrals to the Discipline Committee and/or the principal. Any student with behavior that continues to be non-compliant or is extreme in nature is subject to suspension or expulsion.

Disciplinary Alternatives taken before referral to Discipline Committee or principal (unless it is a major infraction)

1. Silent lunch

2. Time out during recess or other free time

3. Student/Teacher or Parent/Teacher Conferences

4. Suspension from extra curricular activities

5. Student self-improvement contracts

6. Mediation or counseling

7. Restitution (picking up trash, cleaning in classrooms, etc.)

8. Detention

This Code of Conduct is not all-inclusive. The Administration reserves the right to issue disciplinary action for just cause and to revise this Code of Conduct at any time.

Early Morning Student Supervision Fee

FCA employees sign in for work at 7:30 am. To have coverage prior to 7:30 am places a challenge on the employees. For this reason, we will be charging a fee for the 7:00 am to 7:30 am supervision. The money will be used to compensate those employees who arrive early to provide supervision for early arriving students.

The costs are as follows:

For students arriving between 7:00 and 7:30 am on a regular basis

• Flat fee of $10 per week for one student

• For families with multiple children: $15 per week

• Fee of $10 will apply regardless of the arrival time or a four-day school week

For students who arrive before 7:30 am occasionally

• Flat fee of $5 per family each time. This applies to ANY arrival time before 7:30 am.

Parents who do not wish to pay the fee must keep their child in the car until 7:30 am, at which time students may enter the cafeteria without incurring a fee.

Student Handbook Signed Contract

Responsibilities of the Florida College Academy Administration/Faculty

1. Parents and students must receive a copy of the Student Code of Conduct.

2. Parents must receive a Parental Acknowledgement Form included with the Code of Conduct.

Responsibilities of the Parent / Guardian and Student

1. Read the contents of the Code of Conduct.

2. Sign the Acknowledgement Form and return it to school.

Student, Parent and School Acknowledgement

I understand and consent to the responsibilities outlined in Florida College Academy’s Student Code of Conduct.

I also understand and agree that my child/children shall be held accountable for the behavior and consequences as outlined in this Student Code of Conduct while at school, at school-sponsored and school-related activities, including school-sponsored travel, and for any school-related misconduct regardless of time or location.

I understand that any student who violates the Student Code of Conduct or Dress Code shall be subject to disciplinary action. Furthermore, non-compliance to the standards expected may result in the loss of the privilege to attend the Academy.

*CLIP HERE AND RETURN TO SCHOOL by August 11, 2017

MY CHILD/CHILDREN AND I HAVE READ AND DISCUSSED THE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT, DETENTION POLCIY, THE ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES, AND THE DRESS CODE, AND WE WILL SUPPORT AND FOLLOW ALL OF THE EXPECTATIONS.

_________________________________ _________________

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

As a student at Florida College Academy, I pledge that I will abide by the Academy policies, rules, and regulations, and standards of conduct as set forth in the Florida College Academy Student and Parent Handbook. I will respect and follow these guidelines, understanding that consequences will apply for violations.

__________________________________________________ _________________

Student/s Signature (Pre-K may color on the line) Date

__________________________________________________ _________________

Student/s Signature (Pre-K may color on the line) Date

__________________________________________________ _________________

Student/s Signature (Pre-K may color on the line) Date

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Jeopardizing Enrollment at Florida College Academy

Students can jeopardize their enrollment at FCA in any way that violates the schools’ values, or represents the school in a defamatory way. This is not only true during the school day, but by one’s personal life as well. Foul language, fighting, bullying, cyberbulling, sexting, the constant violation of the school expectations, creating constant drama, ridiculing others or the institution of FCA on Facebook, emails, or any social media are not accepted. The 3 R’s--Reverence for God, Respect for others, and Responsibility for all of one’s actions—are not to be compromised and are taken very seriously. To attend FCA is a privilege and not a right. The culture and environment are protected and nurtured for the benefit of all the FCA family. If a violation of the core values come to light that is deemed by the administration to be extreme, expulsion can be the course of action. In such a case, no prior parent notification would be necessary.

N

Basketball

Courts

E

W

Playground

Florida College

Academy

S

E = Excellent

S = Satisfactory

N = Needs Improvement

U = Unsatisfactory

Specials

Art

Music

PE

Technology

90 - 100 = A

80 – 89 = B

70 – 79 = C

60 – 69 = D

0 – 59 = F

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