270-259-4076 ext 202
270-259-3240 Fax
2008 - 2009
Parent/Student Handbook
Kindergarten – 12th Grade
Linda Gentry, Principal
March, 2008
Introduction
Statement of Faith
We believe the Bible is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God, and it is the only authoritative source for faith and practice. We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. II Timothy 3:15, II Peter 1:2, Ephesians 4:6, and Matthew 28:19.
We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His atoning death on the cross and resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and His future return to this earth in power and glory. We believe that the only means of being cleansed from sin is through repentance and faith in the precious blood of Christ, surrendering to Him as Lord and Savior. Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:35, Hebrew 2:9 and 4:15, I Corinthians 15:3, Ephesians 1:7, John 11:25, Mark 16:19, and Acts 1:11
We believe that the rebirth by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential for personal salvation. We believe the Holy Spirit indwells the Christian, giving him the power to live a victorious, obedient, and effective life. I Corinthians 3:16 and 6:19-20.
We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost, one to the everlasting life and the other to everlasting damnation. John 5:28-29 and Romans 8:13-14
We believe that each child is a unique person, created by God in His own image, and who is loved and cherished by God. For these reasons, each child is worthy of individual time, effort, and prayer. Genesis 1:27
Stated Purpose
The purpose of this Christian academy is to provide a creative, loving environment for children to grow spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. This purpose will be accomplished under the guidance and nurture of carefully chosen Christian teachers and administrators, all under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
The primary goal of the academy is to lead all students to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and to disciple them. There shall be an emphasis on the value of the eternal soul, the worth of the individual, the love of God for man, the call of God to righteous and upright living, and the relevance of God in all areas of academics, while providing students with the opportunity for achieving academic excellence.
Membership and Curriculum
LCA is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). We use the ABEKA curriculum and the Bob Jones University Press (BJUP) Curriculum for Kindergarten through 8th grade. High School students use the BJUP curriculum and distance learning services.
Leadership and Organization
Day-to-day operation of the school is delegated by the Principal, who functions as the chief administrator of the school.
The Christian Education Team of First Baptist Church consists of six members who assist in the decision-making process for LCA.
Admissions Policy/Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy as to Students
Early Education Program
The Early Education Program includes classes P3 (3 yr old) and P4 (4 yr old). Classes are conducted from 8:00 am to 11:30 am with daycare services provided from 11:30 am to 5:15 pm
Please refer to the Early Education Handbook for information on tuition, program outline, etc.
Registration
Students will be accepted to LCA on a first-come basis, providing the child meets the requirements for admission. Applications received after classes have been filled will be placed on a waiting list.
Financial Information
Application Fee (K-10th): $75.00 per family
This is a one-time, non-refundable fee which must accompany the application form for
Registration Fee (K-10th): $65.00 per student
This is an annual, non-refundable fee per student which must accompany the application form at registration.
Curriculum Fee:
This annual fee is due by June 15 in order to ensure books arrive on time. This fee includes all books and curriculum for the academic year, including text books which belong to the student. We do not order textbooks until the book fees are paid. We do not provide supplies such as paper, pencils, erasers, notebooks, markers, crayons, etc. A complete list of needs for each grade will be provided at the school office, Back-to-School night, and Wal-Mart. Middle School and High School students will have a science lab fee.
Grade
| Curriculum Fee (per student) |
Kindergarten | $210 |
1st – 5th | $220 |
6th – 8th | $230 |
9th – 12th | TBD |
MS Lab Fee | $15 |
HS Lab Fee | Dependent on Class |
Tuition:
Plan | 1st Child | 2nd Child | 3rd Child | 4th Child + |
K-5 Annual | $2100 | $2000 | $1075 | $0 |
K-5 Monthly | $235 | $225 | $120 | $0 |
6th-8th Annual | $2250 | $2150 |
N/A |
N/A |
6th-8th Monthly | $250 | $240 |
N/A |
N/A |
9th – 12th Annual |
TBA |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
9th – 12th Monthly |
TBA |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Tuition payments are due on the first day each month. A late charge of 5% will be added if paid after the 10th of the month. The late charge will be added monthly (compounded) until paid in full. If using the monthly plan, the first payment is due August 1st, the second payment due on September 1st, and final payment in May. If this day falls on a weekend, payment will be due on the following Monday. If tuition falls two months behind in payment, parents will be asked to make arrangements for payments or the students may be removed from school until payments are made.
Tuition can be paid in an annual one-time payment by August 1st and the parent receives a discount on the total cost.
To receive the family tuition plan, all children must be enrolled at the same time. All students enrolled in High School must pay full tuition.
In the event a student has applied and been accepted, but fails to pay the application fee and the first month’s tuition, the student’s application will become void. The opening in the class will be filled with the first available applicant on the waiting list.
We hire faculty based upon enrollment. Therefore, once the first month’s tuition has been paid, the student’s parent or legal guardian is liable for the entire year’s tuition unless extenuating circumstances exist (such as family relocation, death, or serious illness, etc.). The student’s records will not be released to another school until all fees are paid. The Christian Education Team will evaluate refunds on a case-by-case basis.
If any student withdraws during the year for a reasonable cause (such as those listed above) and the tuition has been prepaid, a refund will be given for the months following the month requested for withdrawal.
Withdrawal from School
Should you decide to withdraw a student during the school year, please notify the Principal in writing. Upon withdrawing your child, all outstanding financial obligations must be met. All withdrawing families are requested to schedule an exit interview with the Principal and complete a withdrawal form.
Release of Student Records
If a child withdraws from LCA, the student’s records will be released to their new school when all financial obligations to LCA have been met.
Return Check Policy
Any check returned for insufficient funds will follow this procedure. A letter will be sent giving the party ten (10) days to send cash and pick up the check. A Return Check Fee of $25 will also be payable at that time. If the check is not picked up within ten (10) days from the receipt of the letter, the check will be turned over to the authorities for collection.
Checks will NOT be accepted for any family or individual having two (2) returned checks. All payments will need to be handled with
Scholarships
LCA offers scholarships based on the amount of donations that have been raised during the year. Only one (1) scholarship per family is awarded. Consideration will be given to financial need, number of students enrolled, number of family members in the household, and extenuating circumstances. All recipients must complete volunteer hours monthly at the school according to the scholarship received. For complete details, please refer to the application. A scholarship application can be picked up in the office.
Parental Involvement
LCA desires a high level of parental support and cooperation. Interest and active participation create a family atmosphere and a sense of belonging.
A Christian education institution like LCA cannot operate on tuition and fees alone. The Academy depends upon the contributions of the families represented in the school. We count on your time, talents, and financial support. We are dependent on the financial gifts of our patrons to retire debt and purchase needed furniture and equipment for the class rooms. This financial support will insure the improvement and growth of LCA as an outstanding school serving
Partners in Progress
There are a variety of ways one may partner with LCA. Many share their blessings in small but important ways or choose to do it in a very significant manner. Throughout each school year, LCA has needs that go beyond the yearly budget. A list of needed items will appear in the school newsletter and class newsletters. These items may be donated all year long.
Tax Deductible Opportunities
Facility Fund – This fund will provide LCA the opportunity to “soar to new heights.” It is used toward the growth and future of LCA which includes building and property funding.
Steve Earles Scholarship Fund – Individuals may contribute to the Steve Earles Scholarship Fund. This fund was established for the purpose of tuition assistance of students. An application must be submitted to the Christian Ed Team for review and distribution of funds. All funds are issued directly to LCA.
Wish List –. Each teacher’s “wish list” is compiled and placed on file in the school office. Periodically, the list will be place on the bulletin board across from the Principal’s office.
Non Tax Deductible
Direct Scholarship – Contribution to LCA for designated student(s) may be given. Since direct scholarships are designated for a certain student, these gifts are NOT tax deductible.
Save and We Earn (Fundraising Efforts)
In an effort to keep tuition costs low, we participate in several fundraising events. We ask that you participate to the best of your ability to support the school and help provide the needed resources. Not all programs require making purchases but most require participation.
Market Day – We participate in the Market Day program, providing families with the opportunity to purchase high quality food and earn 10% of the profits for our school. Order forms are sent home once a month. Completed order forms should be returned to the school office by the date listed on the back of the form. Pickup dates (Thursday evenings) are listed on the school calendar. Profits from the program go to the general operation fund. For additional information, www.marketday.com
Market Day Specials (pie sales and cookie dough) – Twice a year, October and February, Market Day has a special sale that can give a substantial boost to our Market Day income. We encourage everyone to participate in these events. For additional information, www.marketday.com .
Market Day SchoolShare – If you shop online, this is the program for you. If you go to www.marketday.com and log into schoolshare when you do your shopping at any of the listed stores, we will receive a percentage of your purchases in our monthly Market Day check.
General Mills Box Tops – Turn in the Box Tops for Education logo from selected General Mills products and they will donate money to our school. Each logo is worth 10 cents. A complete list of eligible products is available in the office or online at www.boxtops4education.com . This money is used to support special projects within the school.
Target Visa Education Program - Apply for a Visa charge card through Target at www.target.com , designate LCA as your school of choice, and we receive a check for 1% of your Target purchases and ½% from other purchases. This money is used to support special projects within the school.
Funding Factory (inkjet cartridge recycling) – LCA collects used inkjet cartridges to recycle. (All large cartridges should be in their original box.) This money is used to support special projects within the school. For additional information, www.fundingfactory.com .
Nestle Water Bottle Labels – LCA collects Nestle water bottle labels to redeem for different equipment. For additional information, www.goplaylabels.com .
As you can see, there are several ways that you can help support the school . We ask that you include your entire family in this very important program. Please refer to the Parental Involvement section for additional information. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Immunization and Certificate Requirements
Prior to school attendance, each child shall have on file for their permanent records:
- A copy of their legal birth certificate
- An up-to-date
Kentucky certificate of immunization - Proof of a preventative care examination (physical) conducted within one year prior to entry into the school program (Kindergarten) and another physical within one year prior to entry into the sixth grade.
- Proof of an eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist documented on the Kentucky Eye Exam for School Entry.
- Proof of a Dental Exam documented on the KDE Dental Examination Form.
Change of Address
Please report any change in mailing address, email address, and/or telephone number to the school office by calling
Standards of Conduct
LCA has a set of basic rules for student behavior. The purpose of these rules is to promote character, self-control, and a proper learning environment. LCA’s method of discipline is firm, consistent, and tempered with love. The Academy is not a corrective institution; therefore, parents should not expect to enroll their child with the underlying purpose of having the school correct unruly behavior. The school wants to work with the home, not assume parental responsibilities.
We believe that character training is important. We believe that the heart of character training is obedience, which will eventually cultivate self-discipline. This self-discipline is essential to the emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well being of the student.
LCA must, therefore, provide an environment conducive to the spiritual growth and development of young people who are not yet mature Christians. A standard of conduct based on the Biblical commands is necessary to provide such an environment. Therefore, LCA has adopted the following standards:
1. All forms of tobacco, alcoholic beverages, illegal or harmful drugs, dice or other gambling devices, guns or other weapons including knives, clubs or other instruments or devices that could be used as a weapon, or replicas of any weapon, are prohibited on school premises or at school functions.
2. Electronic equipment is not to be brought to school or to school functions unless approved by staff.
3. The use of profanity, obscene gestures, and verbal disrespect for the Word of God or vulgarity will not be allowed.
4. Honesty and integrity are required. Cheating is prohibited. Borrowing and lending are discouraged.
5. School and personal property is to be respected. Chewing gum is prohibited on school premises or at school functions.
6. Students are to remain in their classroom unless they have teacher permission to leave. Students should have a hall pass anytime they are not in the classroom.
7. Students must maintain a “C” average and have a passing grade in all classes in order to participate in extra-curricular activities such as sports, Bible Quizzers, etc. Grades will be checked periodically for eligibility.
8. No books will be allowed that profane the name of God, are sexually explicit, promote racism, anti-Semitism, abortion, or the unlawful destruction of human life.
9. Inappropriate displays of affection including kissing and prolonged embracing will not be allowed on the school property or during school activities.
10. An uncooperative and rebellious attitude is not acceptable.
11. Teachers and/or staff have the authority to search any personal property, such as book bags or lockers.
12. Students must keep their hands to themselves. (No hitting or inappropriate contact.)
13. No student should be involved in behaviors or lifestyles (in or outside the classroom) that will negatively impact the witness of LCA.
LCA reserves the option to dismiss or deny readmission to any student for noncompliance in regard to the standards of conduct stated above. In addition, a lack of parental cooperation in supporting rules of the school will also be reason for dismissal.
Discipline
LCA has developed a school-wide discipline plan which affords every student guidance in making good decisions about his or her behavior and thus an opportunity to learn in a positive, nurturing classroom environment. Your child deserves the most positive educational climate possible for his or her growth, and we know that together we will make a difference in this process.
Students will learn and practice the rules and procedures of the classroom that will also apply to various common areas in the school. Teachers will handle many routine classroom problems, but repeat violations will be referred to the principal. Major discipline issues will be handled by the principal.
Parents will be informed and involved in their child’s discipline.
The following are considered major disciplinary problems: fighting, profanity, rebellion, stealing, cheating, possession of a weapon, threatening behavior, continual disregard of school rules, and immoral behavior.
Disciplinary actions may include parent conferences, detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, and expulsion.
Repeated suspensions during the year or noncompliance with the disciplinary procedures are grounds for expulsion. The principal or the Christian Education Team will make the determination of expulsion.
We pray that you will appreciate the efforts made to provide a Christian environment in which teachers and students perform at their best. Our goal is to help students develop integrity and a Godly character. Proverbs 11:3.
Attendance
Regular attendance is a basic requirement for academic success and the development of a sense of responsibility for school obligations. The school day starts promptly at 8:00 am and ends at 3:00 pm for grades K-11. Children may arrive as early as 7:15 am when teacher supervision begins. A student is to arrive and be in his/her classroom by 8:00 am. Children should be picked up by 3:15 pm. If a child is picked up from school after 3:15 pm, they will be taken to after school care (Eagle’s Club). Refer to the section regarding after school care.
We firmly believe that attendance is a student-parent/guardian responsibility. The intent of this policy is to provide a structure whereby students gain a maximum benefit from the instructional program offered by LCA.
Therefore, attendance for all students will be calculated based on the actual time the student is absent from school with a sixty-minute tardy allowance.
Students are expected to attend the full day for each day school is in session.
A student absent from school 60 minutes or less during the regular school day (checking in/out), s/he will be considered tardy.
Absences sixty-one minutes or higher during the regular school day will calculate on the actual percentage of absence for that school day.
Percentages of absences accumulate during the school year for attendance reporting.
For attendance awards and truancy purposes, calculations will be based on total absences for students. Perfect attendance is defined as being absent zero (0) percent.
When a student must be absent or tardy from school, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to send a note or doctor’s statement to the school in a timely manner to inform the school of the reason for absence or tardy.
Absences and tardies will be EXCUSED for the following reasons:
Doctor’s statement
Death in family
Family emergencies
Military deployment of parent/guardian (one day for deployment and return)
School-sponsored trips
Other justified reason as determined by the Principal
All other absences/tardies will be considered UNEXCUSED and to the discretion of the Principal..
A child with three unexcused absences and/or tardies is considered truant in the state of
Medication Policy
Any student who must take medication (prescription and non-prescription) during the school day must bring the medication in its original container to the school office with a note from his/her parent or legal guardian requesting that the medication be given. This note should include time and amount to dispense. All such medications will be kept in the school office and returned home at the end of each day. The medication must be in the original bottle or container, labeled with the child’s name and directions for administering the medication.
Illness Policy
It is important to the learning environment of the school as well as the health of the other students that your child is well when he/she comes to school. Therefore, if your child is ill and contagious, he/she must not be brought to school. If your child has been ill, he/she should be fever free and not vomiting for 24 hours prior to returning to school. An illness and medication form is available at the office.
Pediculosis (lice) Policy
Head lice infestation in childcare and school-aged children is common in the
1. Parent/legal guardian of child identified as having lice will be contacted.
2. Parent/legal guardian will remove child from school and initiate treatment immediately.
3. In order to return to class, a medical doctor or registered nurse must document the child as nit free.
Inclement Weather
In case of inclement weather, the school will announce any closing on K105, WMTL 870, WBKO-13, WHAS-11, and
Dress Code
Neatness, cleanliness, and appropriateness are essential requirements of student dress. Clothing that detracts from the learning process or reflects negatively upon the student should not be worn. School officials should not have to spend a large amount of time dealing with students’ dress. It is a parent’s responsibility to ensure that students are dressed appropriately. From time to time, we will announce special days that will allow various changes in the dress code.
Students will follow the dress code of the school when involved in school functions at or away from school and even after school hours. This would include spelling bees, science fairs, music and art events, math Olympics, athletic events, and other school events.
LCA has set the following guidelines:
Traditional haircuts are to be maintained for boys. Varying lengths and tails are inappropriate as is extremely long hair (over the collar or down in the eyes).
Hats are not to be worn in the building.
Tattoos (fake/real) are unacceptable. Fake tattoos will be cleaned off. Real tattoos must be covered while on school property or events.
Earrings worn by boys are inappropriate. Earrings worn by girls should be no more than two piercings per lobe.
The teacher and administration ultimately decide if the student’s attire is improper. They will contact the parents if a change of clothes is necessary.
Shoes - Tennis shoes are preferred. All shoes must be worn with socks. Shoes with wheels, flip-flops, open-toed, and open-backed shoes are not permitted for safety reasons. Shoes must have soft rubber soles. Tennis Shoes must be worn in PE and recess (on the gym floor).
Pants – Solid navy or khaki uniform style dress pants shall be worn. Belts are preferred. Denim, corduroy, and cargo pants with large baggy pockets are not permitted.
Shorts/Skorts/Capri Pants – Solid navy or khaki shorts, skorts, and capri pants shall be worn provided that they are “uniform” style that comes to the knee.
Jumpers and Skirts – Girls may wear solid navy or khaki jumpers or skirts provided the length comes to the knee.
Shirts – Solid red, white, navy, light blue, or yellow (yellow through 2008-2009) shirts must have a collar (polo, oxford, or turtleneck only) and be tucked into slacks/skirts at the waist. Sleeveless shirts are not acceptable.
Sweaters--Once it turns cool, students may wear sweaters of a solid red, white, navy, light blue, or yellow(through 2008-2009) in the classroom. A sweater, unless turtleneck, must be worn over a shirt of school uniform color.
LCA Sweatshirt—If cool, the LCA sweatshirt can be worn over a school uniform shirt throughout the building. No other sweatshirts are permissible except on special days.
Denim is not permitted.
FUN FRIDAYS – On Fridays, students may dress in attire that goes with the theme for “FUN
FRIDAY”, wear Christian t-shirts, LCA shirts, or dress according to the normal dress code.
Grading Scale
Report cards will be issued quarterly. Progress reports are also sent during the nine weeks. Parents are urged to consult the teacher with the teacher regarding their child’s progress. The grading scale is as follows:
Letter Grade | K through 8th grade | High School |
A | 94 – 100 | 90-100 |
B | 93 – 85 | 80-90 |
C | 84 – 75 | 70-80 |
D | 74 – 70 | 60-70 |
F | 69 and Below | 59 and below |
Avenues of Communication
LCA is delighted to have parents and patrons visit our school. If you wish to visit your child’s classroom, please call the office to make arrangements. Teachers must have prior notice before you visit in a child’s classroom. All visitors must check-in at the office. Individual meetings may be arranged with the faculty or principal before school begins, after it ends, or during planning periods; depending upon the faculty member’s schedule.
A Back-to-School meeting prior to the beginning of the school year is scheduled to make parents and students familiar with the school campus.
Parent-Teacher meetings are scheduled during the year to offer parents the opportunity to become familiar with the school’s curriculum and to review their child’s work. Time is also allotted for individual conferences with the teacher so the parents may discuss their child’s progress.
If more time is needed, parents may arrange for conferences on an individual basis by contacting the teacher directly or calling the secretary to schedule an appointment.
LCA has a weekly newsletter to keep the entire student body and families aware of happenings at our school. Please make sure that you view this publication regularly to stay informed. You will also receive a copy in June and July. If you have email with the capability of accepting an attached Publisher file, you can also receive a copy of the newsletter by email. Please provide the office with your email address, lca@kynet.net.
Progress Reports
LCA issues a Progress Report to students mid-way through each quarterly grading period. We know that parents desire to stay informed about their child’s progress. Looking over homework grades, test grades, and quiz grades will normally give you a good picture of your child’s progress. If there is a concern about your child’s grades, please contact individual teachers.
Report Cards