2018-2019 Student Handbook

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Academic Policy

Appearance Code

Attendance Policy

General Information

Vision Statement

The vision of Grace Christian Academy is to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth
~Proverbs 1:2-4

Mission Statement

The mission of Grace Christian Academy is to develop wise students through relationships, instruction, and service.

Core Values

• For students to have a personal relationship with their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
• For students to acquire and cultivate wisdom (knowledge and skill) which leads to productive, meaningful lives for the glory of God;
  
• For students to discover, nurture, and discipline their God-given talents
  
• For students to develop habits that lead to righteous living; striving to live honestly and justly.

Philosophy of Education

Grace Christian Academy is a ministry of Grace Baptist Church. God has established Grace Christian Academy for the purpose of impacting lives for eternity through biblically-based and Christ-centered education. Grace is committed to the biblical view that all wisdom and knowledge come from the LORD (Colossians 2:2, Proverbs 2:6). We believe that although man was originally created in the image of God, it was through the sin of one man, Adam, that spiritual and physical death resulted for all mankind. It is only through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ on the cross that man is capable of knowing God and having a right relationship with him (Romans 5:17). Jesus Christ is the only way to God the Father (John 14:6).

We believe the Bible in its original writing, is inspired by God, without error and the standard by which all knowledge is judged and taught. (II Timothy 3:16-17). We believe that God’s Word contains wisdom that is current for this generation and that God has revealed Himself through His written word and Creation (Romans 1:20, II Timothy 3:16). A Christian worldview seeks to teach all subjects as part of the total truth of God, and the revelation of His nature and character. We believe that effective education goes beyond simple head- knowledge and must take into account the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and physical aspects of the student. We encourage students to become all that God has created them to be and, in so doing, bring glory to God the Father.

We believe that God has placed on parents the responsibility of training and teaching God’s truth. We believe that Grace is here to assist and collaborate with families by helping equip students to embrace Biblical truth, strive for academic excellence and model Christ-like leadership. We also believe that it is scriptural for the family to be committed to a local biblically based church. It is through the partnership of family, church, and school that we train a generation that is “thoroughly equipped for every good work” (II Timothy 3:17).

We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity. (Mark 12:28-31; Luke 6:31.) Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual will be repudiated and are not in accord with Scripture nor the doctrines of Grace Christian Academy. Grace Christian Academy is unbending in its dedication to provide the best educational environment for students entrusted to its care. Its administration, faculty, staff, and curriculum adhere to the precepts and principles of the Holy Scriptures.
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The statement of faith does not exhaust the extent of our beliefs. The Bible itself, as the inspired and infallible Word of God that speaks with final authority concerning truth, morality, and the proper conduct of mankind, is the sole and final source of all that we believe. For purposes of GCA’s faith, doctrine, practice, policy, and discipline, Grace Baptist Church’s senior pastor and deacon board is our final interpretive authority on the Bible's meaning and application.

Parents Code

Our parents play a vital part in the total program of Grace Christian Academy. Emphasis again and again has been placed upon the importance of parents cooperating with the school for the education of the child. We believe that the following code, when subscribed to by all our parents, will make Grace Christian Academy a school that would truly honor the Lord and produce the finest education possible:

• I will pray regularly for the teachers and administration of Grace Christian Academy.
• I will cooperate fully in the educational functions of Grace Christian Academy, doing my best to make Christian education effective in the life of each of my children, that they may love and serve the Lord Jesus Christ all of their lives.
• I will support the school by gifts in addition to my tuition payments as the Lord enables.
• I will undertake volunteer duties and responsibilities for Grace Christian Academy as opportunities arise and as God provides time and strength.
• I will regularly attend meetings and functions of the school.
• I will recommend Grace Christian Academy to others as opportunities arise.
• If I become dissatisfied with the school in any respect, I will seek to resolve the matter with the person or persons involved, rather than seeking to spread criticism or holding a negative attitude in my heart. I will not criticize the school before my children. I will follow the biblical instructions found in Matthew 18:15.
• I will seek the advancement of Grace Christian Academy in all areas: spiritually, academically, and physically.

 

Academic Policy

Academic Accomodations

Although Grace is not equipped to provide individualized education programs for students with significant physical, cognitive or emotional disabilities, we are committed to doing everything we can to accommodate learning challenges. While Grace students must meet the school’s educational standards for learning in each of their classes, we value working with families so students can grow and succeed despite challenges in their life. Our desire is to ensure that each student’s needs are met and expectations are clear to the PASS staff, parents, student and teachers. When students are appropriately supported in their educational experience, they are often able to stay on track in meeting their educational and career goals.

Grace is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. While this often takes more time and planning, teachers understand that these accommodations are needed to provide equitable learning opportunities.

Because Grace Christian Academy staff do not have the training to adequately assess the needs of students with special needs, we will only make modifications to course work if the student has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) from his/her local school district or from Kankakee School District #111. Modifications we are able to make if required by the IEP are:

• extended work and test time
• strategic classroom seating
• reduction in work load
• tests read to the student
• copies of teacher notes

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​​Families whose student requires pull out services during the year will be billed a yearly fee of $500. Additionally, transportation provided by GCA to District 111 for services is an added yearly fee of $500.

Academic Behavioral Report

To ensure that students’ grades reflect the learning taking place in the classroom, the behaviors listed below are reported apart from academic achievement. We believe that these habits or traits, which often become entangled with subject area proficiency, are also vital and need to be reported separately. Teachers will report on these behaviors four times each year – at the mid-point and end of each semester.

Cheating

First Offense: The student will receive a zero on the test or assignment and a level 2 discipline. The teacher will call the parent as soon as possible and explain the matter. The teacher will also make a report of the incident to the principal.
Second Offense: The student will receive a zero on the test or assignment and a level 3 discipline. The teacher will report the incident in writing to the principal. The principal will call the parents and inform them of the situation and the consequences.

Class Ranking

High School students are ranked by numeric average each year because colleges request this information when the student applies for acceptance. This average is computed by Ren Web at the end of each semester.

1. Only semester grades are used to compute class rank.
2. Class rank is not finalized until all work is completed and graded for the year.
3. Grades earned in AP and dual-enrollment courses receive a higher numeric weight in
   calculations of class rank.
4. When a student retakes a course due to a failing grade, the failing average will be a part of the GPA as
   well as the average earned for the repeated course.

Crusader Honor Society

The Crusader Honor Society is an organization whose purpose is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in students. Members plan and participate in at least one service project each year, as well as individual service projects that reflect his or her particular talents and interest.
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Selection for membership in the Crusader Honor Society is based upon careful consideration of four distinct areas of scholarship, leadership, service and character. Membership is more than just an honor roll, because students must also consistently display high Christian character. The CHS strives to recognize the whole student; one who excels in all four areas. Selection is a privilege not a right. Membership is a privilege, not a right. Administration will select those students who qualify. In turn, students must apply for membership in the CHS. The application is submitted to the Administration to determine if the student meets the requirements of the Honor Society. The standards of our admission are higher than at most schools. Membership is offered only to those selected by the Administrative Teams. Failure to maintain these standards will result in removal from the CHS.

Curriculum and Graduation Requirements

Grace Christian Academy requires 24 credits (26 credits starting with the class of 2019) for graduation from high school. In grades 9-12, credits are awarded for work done on a semester basis, not on a yearly average.Students and parents are to assume the responsibility to know and meet the requirements for graduation.Below is the list of graduation requirements;

A student will be placed in grades 9-12 according to the number of credits he has earned. The breakdown is as follows:

Note: All candidates for graduation must pass tests on the Illinois and United States Constitutions. These Constitution tests are taken as part of the Government class during the senior year.

Exemption of Exams

One of the privileges we provide for students is to earn an exemption for one exam each semester. Exemption means the student’s semester grade will be based on an average of the two quarter grades. The following guidelines must be met in order to exempt an exam:

• Students may not exempt the same course exam twice in one year.
• ​Single semester courses may not be exempted.
• The student must have an “A” average for the semester.

Seniors may exempt any 2nd semester exam in any class for which they will receive an “A” for that semester (average of 3rd and 4th quarters) as long as they also meet all criteria for regular Exemption of Exams.

Grading Policies

Grades 6-8 Quarter grade                  (45%), Quarter grade (45%), Semester exam grade (10%)
Grades 9-12 Quarter grade                 (40%), Quarter grade (40%), Semester exam grade (20%)

Grading System

1st - 12th grade students use the following grading scale in their classroom. 

Homework

Homework is a necessary part of the educational process. It reinforces what is being taught in the classroom and teaches the student responsibility. We expect and inspect your child’s homework. If your child is not in the habit of having homework, or has never developed proper study habits, assistance at home will be needed. The teacher will not give unreasonable amounts of homework. If your child is spending excessive amounts of time doing homework, proper study habits may need to be developed as well as a schedule that will allow school and home responsibilities to be fulfilled with sufficient personal time remaining.
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Homework assignments should adhere to the following time standards:

*Homework time will vary among students. Factors include: amount of work finished during school day, speed student works and comprehension of assignment, and make-up work from being absent. Please contact your child’s teacher if you have any concerns about the amount of homework having to be completed each evening.

Honor Roll

To recognize and encourage academic achievement, an honor roll is published at the end of each quarter. These include the following:

Incompletes

Students having incomplete work at the end of a grading period must complete their coursework according to the standard-homework absence policy.
​The maximum time allowed to complete all work for a given course is two weeks from the end of the quarter. Any remaining work will be counted as a zero. Grades will be computed accordingly.

Late and Make-Up Work

Students who miss class because of excused absences will be entitled to make-up work using the following guidelines:
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• For each day’s absence, students will have one additional day to turn in work. The exception to this would be long-term assignments made prior to the student’s absence (for example, tests, recitations, research papers, class projects, etc.) Students will not be allowed to postpone make-up work until the end of the grading period.
• Students will receive a zero for any homework missed because of an unexcused absence or unexcused tardy.
  
• Work missed because of an approved family trip or college trip should be made up in advance and given to the teacher before the absence. If this is not possible, the student must make arrangements with the teacher for work to be completed within a week of the student’s return.
• Athletes or students involved in other extra-curricular activities are responsible the next day for work missed because they were not in class. Assignments should be obtained by the student prior to leaving for such trips.

Retention Criteria

Secondary – Failing grades in Math and Language Arts for the year will be sufficient cause to retain a student in the 6th-8th grades. 9th-12th grade students earn credits towards graduation for successful completion of courses. To be considered for promotion to the next grade level a student must have earned an increment of six credit hours.

Schedule Changes

Students who want to make changes in their schedule must first talk with the teacher of the class that they want to change. All official drops and withdrawals are approved and coordinated with the parent, teacher and administrator.

Summer School

Summer academic work may be required to restore academic failures; however, in order to restore a semester or year of failure, a passing grade must be earned and work must be completed during the time allotted. Summer school fees are nonrefundable. Summer school/credit recovery is delivered online. Work may be done at home at the student’s convenience, but tests must be taken at GCA.

Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Grace Christian Academy chooses to name the honorary positions of Valedictorian and Salutatorian based on overall GPA, character, extracurricular involvement and service.

The announcement of Valedictorian and Salutatorian is made in April of the Senior year.

​Students that meet the following criteria will be considered:

• Attended Grace Christian Academy their junior and senior year.
  
• Complete the Distinguished Graduation Plan (minimum four years of Math through pre-calculus, Science, and English) with a class rank in the top 20%.
  
• Have maintained at least a 3.5 Grade Point Average
  
• Have not been on disciplinary probation during their senior year.

 

Appearance Code

In a school setting, there must be order in an effort to encourage concentrated study and avoid as much distraction as possible from the learning experience. At GCA our goal is for our students’ appearance to reflect biblical principles and values. Those principles and values encourage one’s focus to be on one’s inner self (I Sam. 16:7). We want our students to glorify God in all they do, including the way they dress for school and school activities.

Responsibility

Parents are responsible to make sure their children dress according to school code during the school day and at all school functions. The process of parental responsibility begins by:

• developing and fostering an attitude in the student that recognizes and upholds the authority of the school in setting a dress code.
• purchasing clothing to be worn to school that is appropriate and meets the code. making sure that the child is dressed appropriately before leaving for school. upholding the consequences outlined in this handbook if the code is broken.

If a student or parent has a question of whether a specific garment or style is appropriate, the time to check is before it is worn. Appearance standards apply when students are on campus or at any school activity, unless otherwise directed by administration.

We want students to be comfortable, to learn to make correct choices, and to be able to have a sense of “fashion” or “style” within the acceptable boundaries of being neat, clean, modest, appropriate, and non- distracting.

Grace strives to maintain a positive and professional learning environment, which reflects God’s call to modesty and purity. Consequently, our appearance should encourage concentrated study and should in no way distract from the learning process. Therefore, our appearance code is defined by two specific standards: modesty and professionalism.

Modest
First and foremost, a student’s appearance should reflect his/her identity as a follower of Christ. Everything we do is an expression of our relationship with God, and in His Word, God makes it clear that we are to be modest and treat our bodies with the utmost respect. Students’ appearance should also reflect the Christian value of encouraging the focus on the inner self, not the outer. It is also important to note that what is “in style” is not always in accordance with the standards we seek to reflect. However, as Christians, we are called to be “different than the world.” The standards of modesty should be reflected in a student’s dress at all times.
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Professional
We want students to be comfortable but we also expect that a student’s appearance should meet basic standards. As a learning community committed to excellence, we desire to wear clothes that are appropriate and create this type of learning environment. It is important to note that these standards do not involve morality; rather they are preferences that Grace seeks to uphold in our school community. This is also in place to prepare our students for their future when they may have various appearance codes at their places of employment or other venues.

Chapel and Special Event Dress Code

Chapel Dress
For Girls

• Dresses and Skirts – Knee length. If wearing long dresses or skirts, slits should be no higher than the top of the knees.
• Dress Shoes or Sandals
• An appropriate shirt or blouse with no designer logo visible. – No hooded sweatshirts.
• Dress Pants
• No jeans or cargo pants.

For Boys

• A clean, pressed collared shirt that is tucked in or a nice sweater. Polo shirts must be plain with no designer logo, and must be long enough to remain tucked into the trousers.
• Dress trousers or khakis; cargo pants with pockets are not acceptable.
• A belt.
• Leather shoes. Tennis shoes (even dress tennis shoes) are not allowed.

Special Occasion Dress (Fall Fling, Junior/Senior Banquet, Graduation)
For Girls

• Dress tops, blouses, or dresses must have a shoulder or halter strap and reveal no undergarments. They must also cover enough of the chest that when the student’s hand is placed horizontally at the base of the neck no skin is visible below the hand.
• Dresses with straight skirts must fall straight from the waist to avoid a form fitting appearance
• Dresses should be no lower in the back than a normal bra line and cover all undergarments.
• Dresses and skirts must not exceed two inches from the floor when in an upright kneeling position. Slits should be no higher than the top of the knee.
• All dresses must be approved before the occasion.

For Boys

• Tuxedos or coat and tie, belt, and pressed collared shirt.
• Dress leather shoes and colored socks.

Prohibited Attire for School and School Functions

• Anything tight-fitting, revealing, shear or allowing of the undergarments or their outlines to be seen through the outer layer of clothing.
• Stretch pants (yoga/leggings/spandex material)
• Athletic pants/shorts of any kind.
• Flannel or pajama pants.
• Any pants with wording across the back.
• Any shirts that reveal mid-riff when arms are raised or student bends over.
• Any clothing that promotes pro wrestling or fighting, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, secular musicians, another local high school. Shirts that are obscene, suggestive, or have inappropriate slogans and insults are not permitted. Additionally, clothing exhibiting symbols not in keeping with biblical standards to include skull and crossbones, the yin and yang, the ankh, and other pagan or new age images must not be worn. Slipper-like shoes.
• Hats, hoods, or sunglasses may not be worn inside the school.

Process for Dress Code Accountability

• No clothing that is tight-fitting, revealing, shear or allowing of the undergarments or their outlines to be seen through the outer layer of clothing.
• Skirts, dresses, and shorts should be knee length.
• Tank tops should have straps with a width of at least three fingers.
• Shirts should not reveal mid-riff when arms are raised or when the student bends over.
• Shirts must also cover enough of the chest that when the student’s hand is placed horizontally at the base of the neck no skin is visible below the hand.
• Hair should be neat and clean, out of the face and eyes. No unnatural hair colors.
• Piercings should be limited to ears. No gauges.
• Tattoos should be covered.

 

Attendance Policy

Punctual and regular attendance at school is not only the law but also a shared responsibility between the student and the parents(s) or guardian(s) to ensure the integrity of the student’s academics. If a student is absent from school, please call the office before 9:00 AM so that the absence can be marked excused. Excused absences are allowed for sickness, medical appointments, or a death in the family.

A student who is absent more than 7 days (excused or unexcused) in one semester from school will receive no credit for any class during that semester. Exceptions to this policy will be made doctor verified extended illness, a death in the immediate family (father, mother, sibling), or where travel may be necessary for a funeral.

Pre-arranged Absence

• If possible, parents should contact the school at least two weeks in advance of the absence.
  
• Students assume full responsibility for all missed classes and assignments. All assignments are due on the day designated by the teacher. Assignments not completed on time will not be awarded credit. Tests and quizzes must be made up within one week of the student’s return to school and at the convenience of the teacher.

Tardiness

Grace Christian Academy does not distinguish between an excused tardy and an unexcused tardy. Students are allowed to be tardy to school three times per quarter. After this initial grace period, three days of being tardy in any one grading period will equal an unexcused absence.
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Secondary begin school at 8:05 AM. Any student arriving after 8:05 but before 8:20 are considered tardy to school. Students who arrive to school after 8:20 will be considered absent from 1st hour and will need to bring in a note from home the next day. At that point the absence will be considered either excused or unexcused. When a student is tardy the 4th time in a quarter a Level 1 discipline is given and will continue to be given for each subsequent tardy to school infraction during the semester (If three Level 1 detentions are accumulated in any 15 school day period the next tardy will result in a Level 2 discipline.)

Discipline Policy

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” ~ Hebrews 12:11

Part of the mission of Grace Christian Academy, through cooperation with the home and church, is to help equip students to model Christ-like character. The home has been given the primary responsibility for the development of character (Deut. 6:6-9) and the school acts as a delegated authority to reinforce values and principles being taught at home.
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Not all of our students come from homes where biblical standards are strongly emphasized. However, students are expected to follow our standards of conduct willingly and with a good spirit. Effective classroom discipline is a necessary ingredient for a good learning environment. To maintain this environment, we expect students to conduct themselves appropriately. It is the purpose of the disciplinary system to aid young people in the development of Christian character. The Scripture says that all things should be done “decently and in order” (I Corinthians 14:40). Thus at Grace Christian Academy, discipline is maintained which is firm and consistent, yet tempered with love.

Secondary

With increased independence for secondary students, some actions requiring disciplinary intervention are character development issues while others are issues of the heart. Character development issues (Level 1) tend to be accidental / careless and indicate the student’s need for self-discipline. On the other hand, more severe disciplinary issues (Level 2) are those actions that are deliberate and reveal a heart issue. The resulting policy shows Grace Christian Academy’s efforts to encourage students toward self-discipline while providing consequences for deliberate behaviors of insubordination.

Level 1: Matter of Character Development
Violations will result in classroom appropriate consequences and or a suitable level of restitution for restorative purposes. Repetitious offenses may indicate a heart issue and result in Level Two consequences.


Level 2: Matter of the Heart
One-hour detentions are given to students who choose to disregard the authorities placed in their lives. Repetitious offenses may indicate a heart issue and result in Level Three consequences.

Level 3
Students who receive a Level 3 discipline will serve a day of in-school suspension which may result in a fee of $50.00 per day to cover the cost of hiring someone to supervise the student. Violations that will result in Level 3 discipline include but may be expanded by the administration:

• Cheating (includes plagiarism and also results in •a zero on the assignment) 
• Forgery 
• Bullying or harassment
• Stealing
• Vandalism (restitution must also be made) Multiple days of in-school suspension will be given only if deemed absolutely necessary.
• Leaving campus / building without permission
• Skipping school
• Throwing food in cafeteria

Level 4
Level 4 discipline is out of school suspension (OSS) and is a very serious matter. Parents will be contacted before the suspension is to be served. When a student is suspended, he/she must complete all missed work and take all tests and quizzes missed according to the absence policy. Only the tests will count towards the quarter grade. Homework and quizzes will receive a zero for a grade. A Level 4 discipline will be given if the student’s conduct is grave enough to merit immediate, serious consequences. Out of school suspension will be given for the following prohibited conduct:

• Use or possession of alcohol or tobacco on or off campus: Up to 10 days of OSS. Repeated offenses will subject the student to expulsion.
• Use or Possession of pornographic material on or off campus (this includes sexting which is defined as texting or taking pictures of a sexual or lewd nature): Up to 10 days of OSS. Repeated offenses will subject the student to expulsion.
• Involvement in immorality on or off campus: Up to 10 days of OSS or immediate expulsion depending on the decision of the principal and the school committee after a review of the situation.
• Involvement with gangs or gang activity on or off campus: Immediate expulsion.
• Use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs on or off campus: Immediate expulsion.
• Possession of a weapon (gun, knives, blades, etc.): Police will be called immediately and student will receive up to 10 days of OSS or immediate expulsion depending on the decision of the principal and the school board after a review of the situation. (Depending on the circumstances, possession of a look-alike weapon could result in the same consequences.) In order to maintain a safe environment for all at Grace, no weapons (guns, knives, etc.) or any other potentially dangerous items (lighters, combustible materials, lasers, shock-causing devices, etc.) shall be brought to school, to any school event/trip, or onto school property. Because we care deeply about the safety of everyone in our community, we will have very little tolerance for inappropriate behavior in this area of safety.
• Fighting – up to 10 days of Out of School Suspension (Defending oneself will, in most cases, be considered fighting.)

If at any time the principal and the school board determine that a student’s presence in school is detrimental or harmful to the overall life and mission of the school, that student will be asked to withdraw or will be expelled.Grace Christian Academy retains the right to amend, discontinue, or vary from these procedures without prior notice.

Detention Room

Serving time in detention hall is the primary penalty for routine rule infractions among students in the secondary school. Level 1 and Level 2 detentions will be served on Wednesdays starting at 3:30 PM. Detentions will always be assigned for the following Wednesday. If a violation occurs on a Wednesday, the detention will be served the following week. Detention attendance is mandatory after the receipt of the detention form. It will take precedence over athletic practices, games, and work.
An additional penalty detention may be given if the student does not report to detention when assigned with the required parental signature on the form.

Disciplinary Probation

From time to time, it is necessary to put a student on disciplinary probation as the last resort before dismissal from school. The administration will review probation situations periodically. Students who have failed to meet the conditions of the behavioral probation will be asked to withdraw from the school.

Re-Admission After Disciplinary Action

To be considered for re-enrollment after being dismissed from the school (or for enrollment after dismissal from any other school), the student and his parent(s) or guardian must meet with the administrator to determine if the discipline has accomplished the desired development in spiritual maturity. Normally, the school’s administration will only consider a student for re-enrollment after one semester has elapsed.

Additional Reasons for Dismissal

• Parent(s) will not cooperate with the administration of the school.
• A student’s negative influence makes it inadvisable for the student to remain in Grace Christian Academy. Continual failure to achieve academically or continual lack of effort.
• Threats to teacher or staff member.
• Destruction of school property.
• Forcible entry into the building or a bus after school hours.
• Obscene gestures and language directed at the faculty or staff.

These policies have been established in an effort to help protect your children.

Biblical Response to Questionable Situations

We understand that students are frequently faced with the dilemma of how to confront situations that are morally questionable; in addition, students are frequently faced with the conflict of how to deal with friends who have broken or are breaking school rules. It is our desire that students learn to confront one another in the spirit and instruction of Matthew 18. Therefore, a student should confront other students who are involved in actions contrary to biblical principles and institutional standards. If repentance is not achieved, the Gospel of Matthew instructs us to take another Christian to confront again. We suggest that the student invite a teacher with whom they have a positive relationship to intercede with them. If repentance is still not achieved, the student, along with the one he has invited to intercede, should go to the administration. In this way, we seek to encourage students to stand for righteousness.

 

General Information

Accident Insurance

All students will be covered during school hours and while involved in any school activity by a blanket student accident insurance policy. This insurance is secondary to your personal insurance. There is no charge for this service. No additional insurance will be available through the school.

Achievement Tests

Tests are administered each spring in grade levels K-12 to measure academic progress and to compare that progress with public and private school students from all over the United States. This testing provides parents, students, and GCA with very specific evaluations of strengths and weaknesses that can be used to improve the academic progress of GCA and help each student individually. Kindergarten – 2nd grades take the Terra Nova tests. Terra Nova tests gives student data on how they have improved from the previous year. Grades 3 – 9 will take the ACT Aspire tests. ACT Aspire tests give data on how ready they are to take the ACT per grade level. Grades 10 – 12 (12th is optional) will take the ACT. The ACT is a test colleges use to determine scholarship money and often times placement in general education courses.

Arrival and Departure

Arrival: Secondary students will report directly to the gym until they are released for class
Departure: 6 - 12: parents may pick up their children at the doors by the trophy case.

After School Care:

• Secondary students not involved in a school sponsored/supervised activity must leave GCA grounds by 3:45 PM. If the student is staying to watch an athletic contest, the student needs to remain at the games venue and not wander around the building.
  
• Any Junior High student that is not picked up by 3:45 p.m. will be taken to a supervised study hall. There will be a $3/hour charge for this. Students need to be picked up by 5:30 p.m.

Bullying/Harassment Policy

• Students (and Faculty) should realize that their commitment to living a life of integrity and following the standards set forth in God’s Word (the Bible) is ongoing, not limited to the school day.
  
• Grace does not condone or allow harassment of others by teachers, administrators, support staff, students, or other persons either at school, during school events, or online, particularly related to social media and text messaging.
  • Any person who believes he/she has been subjected to harassment should report it immediately to an appropriate superior. Students may report to a teacher, administrator, or counselor. Teachers should report an offense to his/her administrator, or if it is the administrator he/she is reporting, to the Head of School, or if it is the Head of School he/she is reporting, then and only then to the President of the Board of Trustees.
  • Each report will be given serious consideration and investigated appropriately.
    
• Reports of harassment and subsequent investigations will be handled as discreetly as possible to avoid embarrassment of the person making the report or a person who may be unjustly accused.
  
• Any person who is determined to have violated this policy will be subject to disciplinary action including the possibility of employment termination (for staff members) or expulsion (for students).
• Harassment includes, but is not limited to:
  
  • Making unwelcome sexual advances.
    
  • Cyberbullying, which includes intimidating harassment or creating a false profile on social media outlets.
    
  • Engaging in improper physical contact.
    
  • Making improper sexual comments.
    
  • Writing a note to someone else, either electronically, by hand, through social digital or social media, with content that may be construed as sexual, or “unwholesome” as defined in Ephesians 4:29.
    
  • Using words (written or spoken), pictures, objects, gestures, or actions relating to sexual activity (or sexting) to create a sexually intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning or working environment. This can be intentional or unintentional.
    
  • Any other form of ridicule of others based on race, physical characteristics, ability, family background, or similar feature is harassment.
    
  • Intimidation/bullying of any kind intentionally or unintentionally through joking. Joking is not an excuse for harassment or bullying.
    
  • ​​Destruction of personal property.
    
• Any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect are required by law to be reported to the proper state agency which protects the rights of individuals in such cases.
  
• All students and all school employees are expected to conduct themselves with respect for the dignity of others.
  
• If a student or parent feels any part of this policy has been violated, they should immediately report it to the administration of Grace to ensure correction can take place

Career Center Option

Grace Christian Academy extends the opportunity for their juniors and seniors to attend the Kankakee Area Career Center (KACC) their junior and senior years. Written permission must be submitted by the student’s parents and students must receive administration approval in order to be scheduled to attend Career Center. Students planning on pursuing a four-year college degree will be discouraged from enrolling in KACC. The requirement for students to enroll and remain enrolled in KACC is as follows:

• It is the students’ and parents’ responsibility to enroll and pay all fees through the student’s local school district.
• Junior and senior Bible classes are required and cannot be made up on-line. Additionally, required core GCA classes take precedence over KACC enrollment. If there is a conflict with the KACC schedule the student may not enroll in the Career Center.
• It is the student’s responsibility to ensure he/she meets all minimum graduation requirements.
• All required Grace Christian Academy activities take precedence over KACC scheduling. It is the student’s responsibility to check ahead of time if this will affect their KACC grade. Examples of such activities are: community service day, chapel, achievement testing, rearranged GCA scheduling i.e. for some reason senior Bible is scheduled for the last period of the day during KACC class – In this
  situation senior Bible takes priority.
• Grace Christian Academy is more than just an academic institution. Our mission is to educate the whole
  student. It is important, therefore, that students are engaged in activities at GCA beyond the classroom. It is the Career Center students’ responsibility to be involved regularly with class and school activities. Failure to do so could result in losing KACC enrollment.
• It is the student’s responsibility to procure transportation to KACC. Students may only ride with another non-sibling student with written parent permission and the student may only ride with the specified student on the form. ​
  
• To remain enrolled in KACC students must meet the same eligibility requirements as GCA athletes. The athletic director will make periodic eligibility checks. Failure to remain eligible will result in losing KACC enrollment privileges.

Crisis Management Policy

In the event of a crisis on the Grace campus, parents will be notified of events when it is safe for Grace staff to do so. 

Emergency Closing of School

For reasons of extreme inclement weather, school will be called off. (Usually with District #111) Announcements are made as early as possible over radio station WKAN (1320 AM), or WVLI (95.1 FM), and through PARENT ALERT telephone/email system, and RenWeb.

Financial Aid

Families applying for financial assistance will need to complete an application and submit the necessary supporting documentation to FACTS Grant and Aid Assessment. Applications are accepted from March 1st through April 15th for the next school year. Applications must be submitted online. Students who receive financial aid are not eligible for any other tuition discounts and could lose this benefit if their tuition payments are missed.

Gum, Food and Drink

Gum is a nightmare for our cleaning staff and is therefore not allowed in school. Food and drink in the classroom is a distraction and also becomes a problem for our cleaning staff. Therefore, food and drink other than water outside of the cafeteria is prohibited. Consumption of food and drink is also prohibited in the hallways and at student lockers.

Illness and Communicable Diseases

If a child shows signs of illness (fever of 100 degrees or higher, vomiting or diarrhea) do not bring them to school. A child must be free of these symptoms for 24 hours before they return to school. Children with a contagious condition should be kept at home until there is no danger of passing the condition on to others. If a child becomes ill at school, the parent will be called to pick up the child at the school office.

Lunches and Lunch Periods

Grace Christian Academy does not provide a hot lunch program for students. Some vending snacks are available for purchase, as well as a variety of soft drinks, juices, and milk. Otherwise students can bring sack lunches from home. Jr. High and High School students may purchase a la carte items from the Student Council during the lunch period (hot pockets, pizza rolls, chips, cookies, etc.)

Medical Forms and Medication Policy

The State of Illinois requires physical examinations for students entering 6th and 9th grades. The State also now requires a dental examination or waiver for students entering 6th grade. Illinois also requires that each student have on file in the academy office an immunization record that shows the student is current with all immunization requirements. An eye exam or waiver is required for any student entering an Illinois school for the first time. The academy is required to suspend any student who does not comply with these state requirements by October 15th!

Each student participating in inter-scholastic sports or cheerleading must have a physical exam form on file each year before the student athlete is permitted to practice or play. This requirement also applies to out-of-state students enrolling in an Illinois school system for the first time.

​When it becomes necessary for a student to take prescribed medication during the school day, the following procedures apply:

• The student MUST bring the medicine to the office immediately upon entering the building. Instructions should be included as to the frequency and quantity prescribed.
  
• The Office must have written parental permission before it will be given.
  
• The medication must be in the original package – loose or bagged pills will not be accepted or administered. No student may at any time give medication to another student.
• The school office will NOT provide aspirin/acetaminophen/ibuprofen/pepto bismol or other over the counter drugs.
  
• The school office will provide antacids, cough drops, and bandages.
  
• Personal inhalers may be kept by students at the discretion of the office and parents. The office must be notified of all inhalers on campus.
• ONLY the office personnel will dispense prescribed student medication.

Non-Discriminatory Policy

Grace Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students in the Academy. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, athletic and other school administered programs. All new students will be placed on a one semester probationary period. Parents may register online.

Senior Trip

The Senior Trip in the spring is also regarded as a significant educational experience, each senior is encouraged to participate. The cost for the senior trip is the responsibility of the senior. Many seniors lower the total cost of their trip by active participation in several senior fund raising projects. The administration reserves the right to exclude seniors from the senior trip due to academic and/or disciplinary situations. Graduating seniors must be in attendance for the Graduation service as scheduled by Grace Christian Academy.

Skipping Class/School

A student will be considered to have skipped a class if they are more than 10 minutes late to class without a valid excuse from a teacher or the administration. In addition to discipline, homework, projects, quizzes, or tests scheduled for the class period skipped will receive a zero.
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Students will be considered to have skipped school if they miss more than one class period during the day without a valid excuse from a teacher or the administration. In addition to the discipline, any homework, projects, quizzes or tests scheduled for that day in all classes will receive a zero.

Standard of Conduct

Grace Christian Academy holds that the Bible is the infallible, divine Word of God and that salvation by faith in Christ is the initial step in the Christian life. There is adequate biblical basis for the idea of spiritual growth into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29), which is the work of the Holy Spirit (II Corinthians 2:18). This growth begins with the initial act of saving faith and continues throughout life. The Holy Spirit makes the Christian conscious of the biblical demands for a holy life which fulfills both God’s moral law and high law of love (Matthew 22:37-39, Romans 13:8-10, Galatians 5:14). The result is a life consecrated unto God and separated from the world. Grace Christian Academy 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 following biblical imperatives is necessary to provide such an environment. All of the activities of the Christian must be subordinated to the glory of God who indwells us (I Corinthians 8:9, 12-13, 10:32). The Christian will endeavor to avoid practices which cause the loss of sensitivity to the spiritual needs of the world and loss of the Christian’s physical, mental, or spiritual well-being. (I Corinthians 9:27).


A sense of the need for spiritual growth in the light of these principles has led us to adopt the following standards which it is believed are conducive to the environment that will best promote the spiritual welfare of the student. The school, therefore, requires each student- whether at home, school, or elsewhere:

• To refrain from swearing, smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, the use of illegal drugs, gambling, pornography, premarital sex, or gang involvement as identified by the local law enforcement agencies.
  
• To maintain Christian standards in courtesy, kindness, honesty, morality.

The selection of the restrictions mentioned in this pledge may appear arbitrary to some; but while not condemning others who see differently, Grace Christian Academy believes that the restrictions named are types of conduct that are detrimental to the standards established as its objective.
Students are expected to abide by these standards throughout their enrollment whether at home, school, or elsewhere. Students found to be in violation of the above mentioned standards may be asked to withdraw whenever the general welfare demands it.

Stealing

We require our students to respect each other’s property and the property of their teachers and of the Academy. The taking or using of another’s property without their permission will be considered stealing and will receive discipline in accordance with GCA policy. We encourage students not to bring valuable items to school. If they are brought to school, they should be kept locked in a locker or given to a teacher for safe keeping.

Student Drivers

Students who drive must complete a Student Driver Vehicle Use Form and have it approved by the school before they are authorized to drive. Retention of the Student Vehicle Use Permit will depend on the student’s observance of the school’s vehicle regulations.

• All students authorized by the school to drive must park in the outer parking lot.
  
• Loitering is not permitted at any time in the parking area. When students arrive, they are to park their cars in the designated parking area and report inside the building immediately.
  
• No cars may be removed from the parking area during the school day except by special permission from the administration.
  
• The speed limit in the parking lot is 5 miles per hour. In addition to detention, the student who drives in a careless or reckless manner may forfeit his permit to drive to school. The school reserves the right to terminate driving to school privileges.
  
• Any need to leave school before regular school dismissal must be authorized by the parent and approved by the office.

Technology/Cell Phone Policy

Technology and the Internet are incredible resources that can greatly expand the learning and educational process, but can have significant repercussions as they also open the door to access information that would not be consistent with a life of righteousness. Therefore, as Christians with the privilege of computer access, there​ comes responsibility and accountability. Grace expects that all students using the school’s network and computer services will:

• Have the permission of their parent or guardian,
• Agree to abide by Grace policies.

Technology Goals

• We want students to master the basics of managing their electronic resources to achieve their learning goals.
  
• Students need to use technology to interact with people through social media in a manner that fosters collaboration and draws people closer to the Christian community.
• We want students to use technology to develop the ability to discern relevant, valid information to use in their academic pursuits.
  
• We want to help students develop “technology discipline” so it does not become a distraction that detracts from relationships and productivity.

Use is a Privilege
Use of the Internet and the school network is a privilege, not a right. Students who violate policies pertaining to rules of conduct, the acceptable use policy or Internet use will be subject to revocation of privileges and potential disciplinary and/or appropriate legal action. Please note that revocation of privileges may cause failure in classes where network access is necessary.

Liability
Grace makes no assurances or warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, regarding any Internet services provided. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user’s own risk. The school will not be responsible for any damages users suffer, including, but not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays or interruptions in service. The school will not be responsible for the accuracy, nature, or quality of information gathered through school-provided Internet access.

Parental Responsibility / Social Networking Sites
Ultimately, parents and guardians of students are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources. We encourage parents to monitor student activity on social networking sites, such as Facebook®, Snapchat®, Instagram®, Twitter®, etc. Students are generally not permitted to access personal social networking sites from Grace’s network.

Acceptable Use
The educational value of student Internet access is the joint responsibility of students, teachers, and parents. Taking up valuable network resources for non-educational pursuits, or activities not consistent with the mission of Grace, is prohibited. All use must be lawful, non-commercial, and consistent with the educational mission and goals of the school. Students are not permitted to try to access information blocked by the school’s filtering software or to attempt to alter the network configuration in any way. Grace prohibits the use of cell phone “hot spots”, tethering, VPNs, or any other use of a shared personal Internet connection, including nearby Wi-Fi networks. Students must respect the privacy of others and may only access resources they are permitted to use. Students must use only their own username and password, using any other account is prohibited.

Electronic Devices
Grace has classroom sets of student Chromebooks available for student use. Students who bring electronic devices to school (including cell phones, iPads, laptops, etc.) are responsible for them. Grace is not responsible if they are lost, broken or stolen. Electronic devices that can connect to a cellular network should be secured in the student’s locker throughout the day. During class time, electronic devices (those that cannot connect to a cellular network) may only be used with teacher permission. Students who utilize these items inappropriately during class time will be disciplined appropriately. Use of electronic devices during passing periods, lunch, and/ or other free time should be limited.

Telephone Use

During regular school hours, permission to use the phone must be given by the school office or administration only. Secondary students must have a pass from their teacher to go to the office.

Visitors

All visitors and parents are required to come to the office when visiting GCA. Items such as lunches, and gym clothes that need to be delivered to students should be brought to the office where the secretaries will see that they are delivered. Office hours are from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm when school is in session.
Prospective students may visit GCA as long as they secure a visitor’s pass from the office. This must be approved by the principal at least a day in advance as visiting students will be expected to dress in accordance with the dress code. Student shadowing is also allowed as long as the appropriate form has been completed and returned to the GCA office for administrative approval one week before the shadow date.

Withdrawals

Student withdrawals from GCA are handled through the school office. In order to transfer academic records, all fees must have been paid, all books and other school belongings returned, and the proper forms completed. Students who withdraw during the semester will be financially responsible for the entire semester. Students who withdraw may not re-enroll within the same semester or within a ninety-day probationary period.
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Grace Christian Academy’s biblical role is to work in conjunction with the home to mold students to be Christ like. Of necessity, this involves the school’s understanding and belief of what qualities or characteristics exemplify a Christ like life. The school reserves the right, within its sole discretion, to refuse admission of an applicant or to discontinue enrollment of a student if the atmosphere or conduct within a particular home or the activities of the student are counter to or are in opposition to the biblical lifestyle the school teaches. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, participating in, supporting, or condoning sexual immorality, homosexual activity, or bisexual activity; promoting such practices; or being unable to support the moral principles of the school. (See Leviticus 20:13 and Romans 1:27)