GCA Parent/Student Handbook '06-'07
TABLE of CONTENTS
RESERVATION of RIGHTS ............................................................................. Pg. 7
GCA FOUNDATIONAL BELIEFS
Statement of Purpose ........................................................................................ Pg. 8
Mission Statement ……………………………………………………………. Pg. 8
Vision Statement ……………………………………………………………… Pg. 8
Motto ………………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 8
Scripture ………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 8
Philosophy …………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 9
Handbook Introduction …………………………………………………….… Pg. 10
Biblical Expectations …………………………………………………………. Pg. 11
Institutional Expectations…………………………………………………….. Pg. 11
Racial Non-Discriminatory Policy…………………………………………… Pg. 12
Code of Conduct………………………………………………………………. Pg. 13
SCHOOL DISCIPLINE
School Disciplinary Procedures………………………………………………. Pg. 15
Teacher Discipline Authority…………………………………………………. Pg. 16
School Detentions……………………………………………………………… Pg. 16
Severe Behavior Cases………………………………………………………… Pg. 18
In-School Suspension………………………………………………………….. Pg. 18
Out-of-School Suspension…………………………………………………….. Pg. 19
Probation………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 20
Permanent Dismissal/Expulsion……………………………………………… Pg. 20
Due Process Procedure………………………………………………………… Pg. 20
CHEATING ……………………………………………………………………. Pg. 21
DRUGS & ALCOHOL ………………………………………………………… Pg. 22
HARASSMENT & HATE CRIMES ………………………………………….. Pg. 23
ATTENDANCE & ABSENCES
Attendance……………………………………………………………………… Pg. 25
Tardy & Absence Procedures………………………………………………… Pg. 25
Procedure for Reporting an Absence………………………………………… Pg. 26
Absence Credit………………………………………………………………… Pg. 26
Excused Absences……………………………………………………………… Pg. 26
Unexcused Absences…………………………………………………………… Pg. 27
WORK MAKE-UP POLICY
Work Make-Up Policy………………………………………………………… Pg. 27
Work Make-Up Policy for Excused Absences………………………………. Pg. 27
Work Make-Up Policy for Unexcused Absences……………………………. Pg. 28
TARDIES
Tardy……………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 28
Excused Tardy…………………………………………………………………. Pg. 28
Unexcused Tardy………………………………………………………………. Pg. 29
Truancy ………………………………………………………………………… Pg. 29
10/20 Class Period Rule ………………………………………………………. Pg. 29
ABSENCE REQUESTS
Early Release Days ……………………………………………………………. Pg. 30
Request for Absence & Vacation Days ………………………………………. Pg. 30
Attendance at Funerals ……………………………………………………….. Pg. 30
ILLNESS INFORMATION
Student Illness Guidelines …………………………………………………….. Pg. 31
Illness at School ………………………………………………………………... Pg. 32
Using Medication in School …………………………………………………… Pg. 33
SCHOOL HOURS
School Building Hours ………………………………………………………… Pg. 34
School Office Hours …………………………………………………………… Pg. 34
STUDENT & VISITOR PROCEDURES
Student Arrival & Dismissal Procedures ……………………………………. Pg. 34
Student Visitor ………………………………………………………………… Pg. 35
Student Pick-Up Arrangement ………………………………………………. Pg. 35
Visitor Parking & Procedures ………………………………………………... Pg. 35
APPOINTMENTS
Administrative & Faculty Appointments ……………………………………. Pg. 37
Grievance Protocol ……………………………………………………………. Pg. 38
PARENT INVOLVEMENT AREAS
Parent Service Hours ………………………………………………………….. Pg. 39
Classroom Parties ……………………………………………………………... Pg. 40
Field Trips ……………………………………………………………………… Pg. 40
Fundraisers …………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 41
Parent/Teacher Conferences ………………………………………………….. Pg. 41
Parent/Teacher Fellowship ……………………………………………………. Pg. 41
SCHOOL CLOSING & DELAYS ……………………………………………. Pg. 43
REGISTRATION, ADMISSION, & TUITION POLICIES
Registration…………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 44
Student Admission……………………………………………………………... Pg. 44
Tuition Payment………………………………………………………………... Pg. 45
Financial Hardship…………………………………………………………….. Pg. 45
DRESS CODE GUIDELINES
Dress Code Guidelines…………………………………………………………. Pg. 47
General Guidelines for All Students………………………………………….. Pg. 47
Specific Guidelines for Females………………………………………………. Pg. 49
Specific Guidelines for Males…………………………………………………. Pg. 50
Dress Code Variables …………………………………………………………. Pg. 50
DRESS CODE GUIDELINES for SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS
Dress Down Days ……………………………………………………………… Pg. 51
Permitted Attire ………………………………………………………………. Pg. 51
General Guidelines for Special Events ……………………………………… Pg. 51
Special Event Guidelines for Females ………………………………………. Pg. 52
Special Event Guidelines for Males …………………………………………. Pg. 53
Consequences for Dress Code Violations…………………………………….. Pg. 54
ACADEMIC AREAS
Academic Awards……………………………………………………………… Pg. 55
Academic Probation…………………………………………………………… Pg. 55
Failing a Course……………………………………………………………….. Pg. 56
Final Exams……………………………………………………………………. Pg. 56
Promotion & Retention……………………………………………………….. Pg. 57
Grades K-4…………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 57
Grades 5-8……………………………………………………………………… Pg. 57
Grades 9-12…………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 58
EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS
Career/Technical Options…………………………………………………….. Pg. 58
Post-Secondary Option……………………………………………………….. Pg. 58
GRADES
Grade Averages……………………………………………………………….. Pg. 59
Elementary Students………………………………………………………….. Pg. 59
Middle School Students………………………………………………………. Pg. 59
High School Students…………………………………………………………. Pg. 59
Grading System……………………………………………………………….. Pg. 60
Full Credit Courses…………………………………………………………… Pg. 60
Half Credit Courses…………………………………………………………… Pg. 60
¼ Credit Courses……………………………………………………………… Pg. 60
HONOR & MERIT ROLL
Honor Roll……………………………………………………………………... Pg. 61
Merit Roll………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 61
TESTING
Achievement Testing……………………………………………………………. Pg. 61
Ohio Graduation Testing………………………………………………………. Pg. 61
Standardized Testing…………………………………………………………… Pg. 61
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY ……………………………………………… Pg. 62
STUDENT COUNCIL
Student Council……………………………………………………………….. Pg. 63
Purpose………………………………………………………………………… Pg. 63
Elections……………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 63
Responsibilities………………………………………………………………… Pg. 63
ATHLETICS
Athletic & Cheerleading Eligibility…………………………………………… Pg. 64
Academics………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 64
Conduct…………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 64
Eligibility Requirements………………………………………………………. Pg. 65
Ineligibility Rules………………………………………………………………. Pg. 65
Fellowship of Christian Athletes……………………………………………… Pg. 66
GCA COMPUTER NETWORK
Computer Network Description………………………………………………. Pg. 67
Use Policy………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 67
GCANet Rules………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 67
Internet Usage………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 68
Preservation of Resources…………………………………………………….. Pg. 68
GRADUATION
Graduation……………………………………………………………………… Pg. 69
Graduation Credits…………………………………………………………….. Pg. 69
Graduation Awards……………………………………………………………. Pg. 69
Diploma with Honors………………………………………………………….. Pg. 71
Senior Pictures………………………………………………………………… Pg. 72
GUIDANCE COUNSELING
Guidance Counseling………………………………………………………….. Pg. 73
Student Schedule Changes……………………………………………………. Pg. 74
Transcript Requests…………………………………………………………… Pg. 74
MISCELLANEOUS
Backpack/Book Bags………………………………………………………….. Pg. 75
Bulletin Boards & Posters…………………………………………………….. Pg. 75
Candy & Gum………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 76
Care of Property……………………………………………………………….. Pg. 76
Classroom & Hallway Behavior………………………………………………. Pg. 76
Electronic Devices……………………………………………………………… Pg. 77
Firearms………………………………………………………………………… Pg. 77
Food & Beverages……………………………………………………………… Pg. 77
GCA School Store……………………………………………………………… Pg. 77
High School Class Rings………………………………………………………. Pg. 78
Library Responsibilities……………………………………………………….. Pg. 78
Lockers…………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 79
Lost & Found…………………………………………………………………… Pg. 80
Lunch Procedures……………………………………………………………… Pg. 80
Outdoor Recess………………………………………………………………… Pg. 81
Physical Education Classes……………………………………………………. Pg. 81
School Bus Conduct……………………………………………………………. Pg. 81
School Jackets………………………………………………………………….. Pg. 82
Student Driving Privileges…………………………………………………….. Pg. 83
Student Telephone Use………………………………………………………… Pg. 84
Students & the Teacher Workroom………………………………………….. Pg. 84
Study Hall………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 84
Substitute Teachers……………………………………………………………. Pg. 85
Textbook Responsibilities……………………………………………………… Pg. 85
Tobacco Products………………………………………………………………. Pg. 86
WORK PERMITS
Work Permits…………………………………………………………………… Pg. 86
WORK RELEASE PROGRAM
Work Release Program………………………………………………………… Pg. 86
RESERVATION of RIGHTS
The Administration of Granville Christian Academy reserves the right to do what is fitting to the occasion, even where specific terms have been stated in this handbook. Therefore, rules may sometimes be set aside in favor of either stricter or more lenient accountability if the situation so warrants.
Prayer will always be at the forefront of any action, disciplinary or otherwise, when making a decision for Granville Christian Academy and its students. We will ever seek God’s guidance in all that is done, and make every effort to be in full obedience to Him and His plan. Please be in continual prayer for the Granville Christian Academy staff, students, families, school board, and Granville Christian Academy Education Foundation as we go through each wonderful and exciting school year together!
GRANVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
STATEMENT of PURPOSE
Granville Christian Academy believes that Christian education exists to provide instruction that promotes the highest achievement in academics, Biblical worldview, and character development. These three qualities should be marked in disciplined behavior, thereby equipping children with what they need to live successfully and effectively.
MISSION STATEMENT
Granville Christian Academy is a Christ-centered school committed to academic
excellence and spiritual boldness in a nurturing environment. Granville Christian
Academy equips students to effectively serve in their home, school, and community.
VISION STATEMENT
The vision of Granville Christian Academy is two-fold. The first objective is to
provide a high quality Christ-centered education to students in Licking County and
surrounding areas. The second is to provide a school program that will positively
impact the quality of life in Licking County, while preparing students for advanced
educational opportunities and Christian leadership.
MOTTO
PREPARING LEADERS FOR CHRIST
SCRIPTURE
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power,
and of love, and of a sound mind.
II Timothy 1:7
PHILOSOPHY
The Granville Christian Academy philosophy is founded on the ABC’s of a Christ-centered education:
Academically excellent program that is evidenced by:
• A nurturing environment for learning, reflecting increased levels of higher achievement.
• Performance at or above academic grade levels.
• Effective, enabled, equipped and empowered staff, parents, and supporters.
Bible based worldview that is evidenced by:
• An awareness of the unconditional love of God, a sense of purpose and self-worth, and hope for the future.
• Employees who serve as models and mentors of strong Biblical values by loving God and loving others.
• Instruction and training that integrates the truth of God’s word with the facts about God’s world.
Character-focused program that is evidenced by:
• Clear cut expectations of students to demonstrate appropriate, responsible, and productive social behavior.
• Individuals who represent positive role models students can emulate.
Granville Christian Academy understands that education is a lifelong experience, and therefore teaches students to recognize that their education requires initiative and informed decision-making, which becomes primarily their responsibility. GCA feels that informed decision-making comes from the values set forth by godly adult guidance. In conjunction with this is the necessity of a supportive school environment, characterized by mutual respect among administration, staff, students and families. The philosophy and size of GCA allows for flexibility in addressing individual student needs and interests. Students come to know one another and become known by the adults who work with them.
Granville Christian Academy communicates its philosophy through the curriculum it teaches, the services it provides, the adult role models it offers, the guidelines and expectations it maintains, and the activities it sponsors.
GRANVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
HANDBOOK INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this handbook is to identify those items that will assist us in meeting the spiritual and educational philosophy of Granville Christian Academy. We acknowledge that it is impossible to create an environment where all expectations and boundaries are totally acceptable to everyone. However, certain guidelines must be specified to assure order in our school. When students, staff, and parents agree to become a part of Granville Christian Academy, they freely and willingly choose to take upon themselves the responsibilities outlined in this handbook.
It is the goal of GCA to assure that strong Christian values are the foundation of a student’s life, as well as a foundation of their academic program. Students should apply to GCA only if they desire and intend to participate in our school under the rules and guidelines set forth in this handbook. Parents and students must note that students who have reached the age of 18, and have not yet graduated, must adhere to all school rules and guidelines, just as those students who are under the age of 18. There are no exceptions.
Granville Christian Academy is not the authority in charge of its students when they are away from school, nor when they are not participating in school-related or school-sponsored activities. However, the school does reserve the right to discipline, as it deems necessary, any student misconduct occurring outside of GCA sponsored activities. It is expected that students will represent GCA and its values in a Christ-like manner both inside and outside of school, so as to represent our school and our parents, at all times, in a way that is pleasing to God. Misconduct, for the purpose of this section, means serious or repeated violations of civil law, or behavior that otherwise deviates significantly from that expected of Granville Christian Academy students, as set forth in this handbook.
Misconduct by a student who is a non-participant or spectator at school-related or school-sponsored programs or events may be handled in the same manner as misconduct by a student in school or by a student participating in school-related or school-sponsored programs or events. The decision of whether or not to take disciplinary action will be made by the school administration. This decision will be based upon the circumstances of the case and will be determined by the impact such misconduct has on the ability of the offending student and other students to properly participate in those programs or events. If a student engages in misconduct off school grounds, and not at a school related or school-sponsored event, the decision of whether or not to take disciplinary action will be made by the school administration. This decision as well will be based upon the circumstances of the case and will be determined by the impact the student’s misconduct has upon the operation and reputation of the school and its programs or events. Should the administration decide that disciplinary action is warranted, it then reserves the right to impose whatever consequences it deems necessary.
BIBLICAL EXPECTATIONS
Galatians 5:22-24 tells us that the “fruits of the Spirit” are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are to be sought, encouraged, and demonstrated in our relationships.
Certain behaviors are prohibited in scripture and are to be avoided by members of the body of Christ, and therefore avoided by those involved with Granville Christian Academy. They include but are not limited to theft, lying, dishonesty, gossip, slander, backbiting, bullying, crude and vulgar or profane language, harassment, hate crimes, sexual activity and/or gratification outside of the bonds of marriage, intoxication, immodesty, and occult practices.
In keeping with scriptural admonitions to bring ourselves under the authority of the government, those affiliated with GCA are expected to uphold the laws of the local community, the state of Ohio, and the nation.
INSTITUTIONAL EXPECTATIONS
Granville Christian Academy recognizes Sunday as a day set apart primarily for worship, fellowship, ministry, and rest. While recreation may be a part of the Sunday agenda with family and friends, “business as usual” relative to school programs, games and rehearsals will not be sanctioned or encouraged on Sundays except where absolutely necessary. In addition, GCA also recognizes Wednesday evenings as a time to join other Christians for mid-week study and fellowship. Since services on Wednesday are later in the evening, GCA may hold some practices or rehearsals immediately after school, completing them in time for any evening church activity.
RACIAL NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY
The governing body of Granville Christian Academy, located at 1820 Newark-Granville Road, in Granville, Ohio, has adopted the following racial non-discriminatory policy:
Granville Christian Academy selects students and employees of any race, color, gender, or ethnic origin. Students and employees of all race, color, gender, or ethnic origin are entitled to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities provided by the school. In addition, Granville Christian Academy will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational or athletic programs and extra curricular activities. Furthermore, the school is not intended to be an alternative to court orders, administrative agencies, or public school district initiated desegregation.
CODE of CONDUCT
Conduct or behavior is the manner in which one acts. In addition to the biblical expectations of Granville Christian Academy, the students, staff, and administration voluntarily commit themselves to the following standards of behavior. This commitment results from the conviction that these standards serve the good of the individual as well as the school. Granville Christian Academy believes that mutual respect forms the basis for any code of conduct.
Because of the importance of trust in, and responsibility to, one another, violations of these standards are regarded as a serious breach of integrity within our school. Therefore, the following standards apply to the students, staff, and administration of Granville Christian Academy:
1) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not, by use of
violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or
any conduct; intentionally cause disruption or obstruction of any lawful mission,
process, or function of the school.
2) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not intentionally
cause or attempt to cause damage to school or church property or equipment or
to private property either on the school grounds or during a school activity,
function, or event off school grounds.
3) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not intentionally cause or attempt to cause physical injury or intentionally behave in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any other student, school employee, or other person not employed by the school on the school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours, or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group, or off the school grounds at any school activity, function, or event.
4) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not be permitted to have dangerous weapons in possession at any time while in attendance at school or at approved school related activities either as a participant or as a spectator. A dangerous weapon shall be defined as any firearm, explosive device, instrument with a blade, or other object which, in the judgment of the teacher, administrator, or other school personnel, is being used or threatened to be used in such a manner as to constitute a potential danger to the physical welfare of others.
5) A student shall not repeatedly fail to comply with directions of teachers, student
teachers, substitute teachers, teacher aides, administration, or other authorized
school personnel during any period of time when properly under the authority of
school personnel. This includes spectatorship at any school activity, function, or
event.
A staff member shall not repeatedly fail to comply with directions of the school administration or the School Board or other authorized personnel during any period of time when properly under the authority of the administration or school board. This includes spectatorship at any school activity, function, or event.
A member of the administration shall not repeatedly fail to comply with directions of the School Board or other authorized Spring Hills Baptist Church leadership during any period of time when properly under the authority of the school board or authorized church leadership. This includes spectatorship at any school activity, function, or event.
6) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall attend school
regularly and shall not be excessively absent, truant, or tardy as described in
this handbook.
7) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall abide by such
rules and policies as established by the School Board, Spring Hills Baptist
Church leadership, and the Granville Christian Academy handbook.
8) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not be permitted
to use profane, vulgar, inappropriate, or obscene language or jesters while in
school, on school property, or in school-related activities. This includes
spectatorship at any school activity, function, or event.
9) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not possess or
distribute any form of obscene or pornographic materials, materials of a libelous
nature or involving defamation of character, or materials advocating racial or
religious bigotry.
10) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not engage in
theft of school or church property or another person’s belongings while said
student, staff member, or member of the administration is attending school, is
on school property, or is engaged in school sponsored activities. This includes
spectatorship at any school activity, function, or event.
11) A student, staff member, or member of the administration shall not possess, use,
distribute, or be under the influence of any prescription or non-prescription
drug, unless prescribed by a doctor (students are required to have the
prescription on file in the Granville Christian Academy school nurse’s office),
tobacco products, alcohol, narcotic drugs, hallucinogenic drugs, amphetamine,
barbiturate, marijuana, or any other mind altering substances on any church or
school property at any school sponsored activities at any time.
The intent of this Code of Conduct is to identify expectations that assist Granville Christian Academy in functioning as a Christian school, and in achieving its goal as a chartered K-12 school operating in the State of Ohio. All employees of the school are responsible to abide by this Code of Conduct as long as they are under the employment of this school. All students of the school are likewise responsible to abide by this Code of Conduct as long as they are enrolled as students of this school. The administration of Granville Christian Academy or the School Board reserves the right to take any disciplinary actions they deem necessary for failure to abide by the Code of Conduct.
SCHOOL DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Granville Christian Academy is charged with the task of setting forth rules and regulations to help all students conduct themselves in a godly manner as citizens of the kingdom of God. A matter of discipline is understood as any violation of these rules and regulations. Throughout life we are continually learning personal discipline and self-control. Students are free to choose one form of behavior or another. In choosing to behave or misbehave they take upon themselves the consequences of that chosen behavior. Students are expected to follow school policies and will be held accountable. All staff and administration are expected to discipline with kindness, firmness, and love that looks toward the restoration of the student.
GCA must comply with local, state, and federal laws. In some cases, this would mean that the school is required by law to inform local law enforcement agencies of certain illegal activities.
TEACHER DISCIPLINE AUTHORITY
Teachers shall uphold the spirit of the school’s Code of Conduct. Consequences for
minor, daily, misbehavior situations rests with the classroom teachers and staff. All
forms of reasonable discipline have the full backing of the school administration. A
student’s failure or refusal to accept their responsibility in these situations will be
considered a serious offense.
SCHOOL DETENTIONS
Detentions serve to remind students that they have grown overly careless with the guidelines of which they are to abide. Students will receive a Communication Form for infractions that occur, and these forms as well as school detentions may be issued by the GCA staff or administration. Anyone receiving three of these forms in a single 9-week period (for the same or any combination of violations) will receive a detention. An additional detention will be assigned for each form received after the 3rd form in a 9-week period.
Communication Forms do not carry over to the next 9-week period, and instead students are given the opportunity to begin the new 9-weeks with a clear record. However, an overall excess of detentions or specific or repeated infractions will be considered when determining if a student may remain at GCA.
Students will be charged a fee of $10.00 for each detention they are assigned after the 1st detention in a school year. This fee does carry over in to each new 9-week period, i.e. if a student has had two detentions in the 1st 9-weeks of school, they will have paid $10.00. Should they receive a detention in the next 9-weeks, they will be charged an additional $10.00 fee as the fee carries over. All fees are due at the time the detention is served, and there will be a $1.00 charge for each day the fee is late. Should another detention occur before the late fee is paid, the student will receive an automatic in-school suspension. In addition, anyone not paying their detention fee will not receive their grade card until all fees are paid.
Three detentions within two consecutive 9-week periods indicate there is most likely an attitude or behavioral problem present. A third detention will be accompanied by a conference with the school administrator or principal to discuss the patterns of behavior that are precipitating the detentions. As a result of this conference, other disciplinary action such as suspension or permanent dismissal may be in order.
Communication forms may be given for the following infractions:
1) Infraction of classroom behavior guidelines as specified by the classroom teacher. Each infraction results in a Communication Form.
2) Infraction of the school Code of Conduct or policies as described in this handbook.
3) Tardy to school or class, whether excused or unexcused.
4) Infraction of the school dress code.
School detentions will be served according to the following guidelines:
1) All detentions must be served on the next detention day.
2) Detention will be held on each Monday from 3:20 to 4:00 p.m. and each Friday from 7:20 to 8:00 a.m.
3) Detention is an extension of the class day, thus all rules apply, (i.e. school dress code, silent study, no food/drink, etc.) as if school were in session.
4) Students are required to bring paper, and pen or pencil to detention.
5) Detention time is to be used to complete the work assigned by the detention supervisor.
6) Detention may include an assigned work detail.
7) Students who do not serve their detentions in the required time, or do not follow the previous guidelines for detention, will receive an additional detention.
If a student feels a Communication Form is unwarranted, they should use the following procedure:
1) Confer as soon as possible, showing restraint and respect, with the staff member who issued the form.
2) If this conference does not resolve the disagreement, parents should schedule a conference with the staff member who issued the form.
3) If this conference does not resolve the disagreement, the matter should be referred to the school administrator or principal.
Upon receiving a 6th detention in a semester, a student will receive an automatic out-of-school suspension. The school administration does reserve the right to void this suspension, or to impose other actions as they deem necessary such as probation or permanent dismissal. Consequences for the cases of voided suspensions will be determined by the school administrator or principal.
SEVERE BEHAVIOR CASES
At Granville Christian Academy, serious repeated misconduct is liable to suspension
and/or permanent dismissal. Conduct liable to suspension and permanent dismissal is that which disrupts the academic atmosphere of the school, endangers fellow students, teachers, or school officials, damages property, or flagrantly or repeatedly violates regulations or policies of the school or church. For such conduct the administration may immediately suspend or permanently dismiss the student from school. The parent or guardian will be notified immediately to come to the school to take their student home.
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
In-school suspension may be used at the discretion of the GCA school administration for behavioral situations or other violations of school policy. In-school suspension may extend from 1-5 school days, in addition to any intervening holidays and/or weekends. The following consequences accompany an in-school suspension:
1) Communication with parents or guardians and the student.
2) Prohibition from participating or attending, in any manner, all Granville Christian Academy activities, regardless of location, for the duration of the suspension.
3) The student may be on school property only during the school day and then, only during school hours.
4) The student is responsible for all material covered in class during the suspension, as missed material may be covered on tests.
5) Failure to change behavior could lead to an out-of-school suspension or permanent dismissal.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
Out-of-school suspension automatically occurs when a student receives 6 school detentions during one semester, or is the consequence for violations of school policies that the school administration considers serious. Out-of-school suspension may extend from 1-10 school days plus intervening holidays and/or weekends. The following consequences accompany an out-of-school suspension:
1) Communication with a parent or guardian and the student.
2) Prohibition from being on Granville Christian Academy property and from participating or attending, in any manner, all Granville Christian Academy activities, regardless of location, for the duration of the suspension.
3) 50% credit for all assignments, quizzes, tests, and examinations assigned and due during the suspension.
4) Completion of specific terms established by the administration, for the student’s continuation at Granville Christian Academy.
4) The student is responsible for all material covered in class during the suspension, as missed material may be covered on tests.
5) Notice that further violations of school regulations and/or failure to meet terms established for the student’s continuation at Granville Christian Academy could result in permanent dismissal.
6) Failure to change behavior could lead to permanent dismissal.
PROBATION
A student may be placed on academic or conduct probation. The discretion of the GCA
administrator or principal will determine if probation for conduct need occur, and
individual circumstances apply to each case in question. The following consequences
accompany a probation for conduct:
1) Communication with a parent or guardian and the student.
2) Completion of specific terms established by the administration for the student’s continuation at GCA. If these terms are not met and maintained, it may lead to immediate permanent dismissal of the student. Please see the “Academic Probation” paragraph for details on academic probation.
PERMANENT DISMISSAL/EXPULSION
Permanent dismissal may occur when the school administrator and principal deem it
necessary, or when a student’s behavior warrants a second school suspension of any
type. The school offers an appeals process to families in permanent dismissal situations.
See the “Due Process Procedure” paragraph for details.
DUE PROCESS PROCEDURE
Due process is a broad constitutional concept to protect students against arbitrary and capricious actions. Substantive due process demands that permanent dismissal from school be reasonable and fair. Procedural due process requires a just and orderly proceeding when a student is charged with a violation of a school rule which leads to permanent dismissal. A student and their family will:
1) Be informed of charges and evidence.
2) Be given the opportunity to present their case.
3) Have the right of appeal.
CHEATING
Cheating is a serious offense and undermines the value of academic honesty. Useful and lasting learning cannot occur unless the learning process which students go through is an honest one that reflects their true abilities, as measured by their own efforts.
Cheating is a breech of academic integrity and involves one or more of the following actions:
1) To use, copy, or submit another person’s work as if it were your own.
2) To copy information from another person’s classroom work, homework, quiz,
test, examination, theme, report, or term paper, whether the other person is
currently enrolled or not, at Granville Christian Academy.
3) To plagiarize as defined as, “to steal and use the ideas and writings of another
as one’s own, without giving credit to the original author.”
4) To prepare to cheat in advance by:
a) Having in your possession an unauthorized copy of a quiz, test, or
examination you will be taking.
b) Using any form of notes during a test or exam without teacher
permission.
c) Communicating in any way with another student during a quiz, test, or
examination.
d) Communicating in any way with another student advising them of
material that is on a quiz or test they have yet to take.
5) Assisting another student with cheating, according to the above definitions.
Cheating may be proven against a student by one or more of the following conditions:
1) A teacher or staff member personally observes or discovers an act or some
physical proof of cheating.
2) A student admits to a teacher or staff member that they have cheated.
3) The act of cheating is observed and reported to the teacher by at least two
independent witnesses.
The teacher will personally present the case to the administrator or principal with the student present. If it has been determined that an act of cheating has occurred, the administrator or principal will take appropriate disciplinary action.
Elementary teachers will handle each situation on a case by case basis. Middle and high school student’s consequences for cheating are as follows:
First Offense: The student will receive the grade of 0% for the assignment or test. The cheating will be notated in the student’s permanent cumulative file.
Second Offense: When a second offense occurs in any class during the current or any subsequent year, there will be loss of credit in that course for the grading period, with a possibility of permanent dismissal from GCA.
DRUGS & ALCOHOL
Drugs and alcoholic beverages may not be brought, purchased, possessed, distributed, or consumed by Granville Christian Academy students, staff members, members of the administration, or spectators at school or at school sponsored activities. Nor shall any student, staff member, member of the administration, or spectator under the influence of drugs or alcohol be permitted on school property or at any school sponsored activity. A student who violates any part of this rule (including being in the company of a group possessing and/or using drugs or alcohol) may be suspended or permanently dismissed from school. The distribution, sale, or offering of drugs or alcohol for sale, whether on or off school premises, is grounds for dismissal from GCA, and legal action may be taken.
First Violation - With due regard for the consequences allowed by the paragraph above, ordinarily, a student who violates this regulation for the first time shall participate in a conference with their parents and the administration. Other individuals may be included at the discretion of the school administration. Following the conference, the student may be suspended or permanently dismissed from school or, if found necessary, the student may be referred to a drug/alcohol treatment center. If the latter occurs, the administration should be informed by the parents as to whether or not the student will be participating in a drug/alcohol program, and also be informed periodically as to the students’ progress. A decision on the students’ continuation at GCA will result after a final conference with student and parents.
Subsequent Violations - All subsequent incidences will result in immediate permanent dismissal from GCA.
HARASSMENT & HATE CRIMES
Granville Christian Academy is firmly committed to providing an educational environment that is free from intimidation and harassment against any person because of their race, ethnic background, gender, religion, or handicap. This policy covers all students, staff, administration, or persons acting on behalf of Granville Christian Academy, including participants or spectators at any school sponsored activity.
It is the policy of Granville Christian Academy that hate crimes and harassment shall not be tolerated under any circumstances. We firmly believe that all persons are to be treated with respect and dignity. We shall respond to hate crimes and harassment in a manner that effectively deters future incidents.
1) DEFINITION OF HARASSMENT & HATE CRIMES
Harassment is unwelcome oral, written, or physical conduct directed at the characteristics of a person’s race, color, ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. Examples of harassment include but are not limited to unwelcoming patting, pinching, or physical contact, anti-gay comments, ethnic or racial slurs, or threats. Hate crimes are criminal acts or threatened acts in which the victims are targeted based on characteristics such as race, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, sexual orientation, and disability. Examples of hate crimes include, but are not limited to, threatening phone calls, hate mail, physical assault, threats of harm or violence, arson, vandalism, cross-burnings, bombings, and bomb threats.
2) REPORTING
If a student or staff member is the target of such conduct, he or she should contact the school administrator or principal. The student or staff member will be asked to complete a reporting form. The complaint will be promptly and confidentially investigated, and if determined to be valid, warranted disciplinary action will be taken at the discretion of the administrator or principal.
3) MANDATORY STAFF REPORTING
When any staff member in the course of his or her employment has reason to believe that: 1) a hate crime or harassment has been committed or is about to be committed on school property or by any student or staff member on or off school property; or 2) a student or staff member of the school has been or is about to become the victim of a hate crime or harassment, the student or staff member shall immediately notify the administrator or principal.
4) POLICE NOTIFICATION
The administrator or principal shall promptly notify the police department or the county prosecutor’s bias officer when there is any reason to believe that an act of violence has been or is about to be committed against a student or staff member, or there is otherwise reason to believe that a life has been or will be threatened.
ATTENDANCE
Ohio law requires all persons between the ages of 6 and 18 years of age to attend school until graduation from an accredited high school. It is essential that parents and students assume the obligation to attend school regularly and on time. Tardiness effects the overall education of not only the student who is tardy, but of all students. Regular and punctual attendance is an important habit contributing to success in school, college, and career.
At Granville Christian Academy, all students must reside with a parent or legal guardian who is responsible for seeing that the children attend school. GCA views parents or guardians as the legally responsible party for a student’s academic, behavioral, and financial commitments.
TARDY & ABSENCE POLICY
1) If a student is absent four or more consecutive days, a doctor’s excuse is
required to return to school.
2) If a student is absent five or more consecutive school days, seven or more
school days in one month, or twelve or more schools days in a school year,
without a doctor’s excuse, the family and student will be required to meet with
a county Truancy Mediation Specialist and assigned GCA school official to
compile an agreement as to how to have the student at school as necessary.
3) If a student is tardy to school five or more times in a 9-week period, whether
excused or unexcused, the family and student will be required to meet with a
county Truancy Mediation Specialist and assigned GCA school official
to compile an agreement as to how to have the student at school as necessary.
Therefore, it is recommended that students acquire dental, doctor, and eye
appointments throughout various times of the day in order to avoid continual
tardies at the same time of day or to the same class. (See the 10/20 Class
Period Rule for further information).
4) If a student is not at school as agreed upon with the GCA school official and
the mediator, the parents will be taken to truancy court with the possibility of
jail time. In addition, the student will be dismissed from Granville Christian
Academy.
PROCEDURE for REPORTING an ABSENCE
When a student is absent:
1) The parent or guardian is requested to call the school office at (740) 587-4423
to report the absence by 8:15 a.m. (It is not permissible for the student to call
in their absence themselves).
2) The following information is requested:
• Name of person calling
• Name of student who is absent
• Nature of illness or absence
3) If a student is absent for more than one consecutive day, the parent or
guardian must phone in each day of the absence, unless it is a planned and
previously notified absence.
4) On the first day the student returns to school, the parent or guardian must
send a signed note indicating the reason for the absence, even though the
absence was previously advised.
ABSENCE CREDIT
Absences are credited as follows:
1) ½ day = absent 2 to 4 periods
2) Full day = absent 5+ periods
A student must be in attendance at school a full day if they are to participate in a contest, performance, game, or school activity on that school day or evening. If the student has a doctor or dental appointment during the school day, they must return to school before the end of the school day with a doctor’s excuse. No exceptions will be made to this policy.
EXCUSED ABSENCES
Absence from school is legally permissible as written in the State Attendance Law for:
1) Personal illness
2) Recovery from an accident
3) Death in the family
4) Observance of religious holidays
5) Any emergency or set of circumstances which, in the judgment of the administrator or principal, constitutes good cause.
6) Approved field trips or school sponsored activities
7) Pre-approved planned absences (family trips, mission trips, college visitations, armed forces testing, etc.)
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
Any absence from school not meeting the requirements specified in the above Excused Absences section and any absence without the knowledge and/or consent of the school and/or parent will be construed as unexcused.
WORK MAKE-UP POLICY
When a student has been absent from school with an excused absence, they may use the Work Make-up Policy. The Work Make-up Policy may not be used for unexcused absences.
WORK MAKE-UP for EXCUSED ABSENCES
Elementary students or their parents are responsible for collecting missed assignments
in the event of an absence. Middle and high school students are responsible to collect missed assignments themselves. Completing and returning missed assignments following an absence is the responsibility of the student.
1) Upon the first day back to school the student or parent must contact each teacher for the missed assignments
2) Make-up work may consist of homework, quizzes, tests, and/or projects.
3) Upon returning to school, a student must complete the missed assignments within a period of time equal to the same number of days they were absent. The student has the possibility of earning 100% credit for the assignments, quizzes, tests, and examinations assigned and due during the excused absence.
4) If the missed work is not made up within the required time period, the student
will receive a 0% for the assignment.
5) Absences during a long-term project will not affect the date the project is due
for that particular student. The due date will remain the same as originally
given.
WORK MAKE-UP for UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
1) The student is responsible for all material covered in class during the unexcused absence, as missed material may be covered on tests.
2) Upon returning to school, a student must complete the missed assignments within a period of time equal to the same number of days they were absent.
3) The student has the possibility of earning 50% credit only for all assignments,
quizzes, tests, and examinations assigned and due during the unexcused
absence.
4) If the missed work is not made up within the required time period, the student
will receive a 0% for the assignment.
5) Absences during a long-term project will not affect the date the project is due
for that particular student. The due date will remain the same as originally
given.
TARDY
Students are tardy when they are not in the classroom in their seat ready to begin class promptly at 8:15 a.m., or when they are not in each scheduled class at the beginning of the scheduled class period. This applies to study halls as well as any other assigned area where the student is scheduled to be.
When a student is tardy to school or class, they must go directly to the school office to receive a pass to class. They will also receive a Communication Form for the class in which they were tardy. An “excused” or “unexcused” pass will be issued.
When a student has been tardy five times (whether excused, unexcused, or a combination thereof), the result will be a detention which must be served on the next detention day. A tardy slip for study hall will count toward the five tardies, just as a tardy to an academic class.
EXCUSED TARDY
Excused tardies are lateness to school which would be legally permissible absences as stated in the Excused Absences section of the handbook. Excused tardies must be verified by parent note, phone call, or personal visit to the school office.
UNEXCUSED TARDY
Unexcused tardies occur when a student is tardy for reasons other than those stated in the Excused Absences section of the handbook.
TRUANCY
Students are illegally absent from Granville Christian Academy when they are not in assigned classes, leave school without permission, falsify reasons for absence. A student seen out and about such as at the mall or at a restaurant, or similar type situation when they are absent from school for other reasons are considered truant and are subject to suspension. Truancy is considered an unexcused absence. Moreover, it is regarded as a serious violation of absence rules, incurring possible other disciplinary measures at the discretion of the school administration such as probation, suspension, or permanent dismissal.
Students are not permitted to leave the campus during the school day except in cases of emergency or a reason that has been previously noted in the Granville Christian Academy school office, and only then, with permission from a parent or guardian and the school.
10/20 CLASS PERIOD RULE
1) Students who miss more than 10 class periods of any particular class in a nine-week grading period will receive an “F” for that class in that grading period.
2) Students who miss more than 20 class periods or 13 blocked (double length)
periods, of any particular yearlong course will not receive credit for that course.
Students who miss more than 10 class periods in a semester class will not receive
credit for the course.
3) It is the responsibility of each teacher to notify the student and office regarding
individual class violations of the 10/20 class period rule. Teachers should give a
warning to the student and the office after the student has missed 6 class periods
in a nine week grading period, 6 class periods in a semester class, and 12 class
periods in a yearlong class.
4) Excused and unexcused absences are counted in the 10/20 class period policy.
School related absences such as field trips and class meetings are not counted in
the 10/20 class period rule. College visitations and out-of-school suspensions will
not be counted in the 10/20 class period rule.
EARLY RELEASE DAYS
Occasional requests for early dismissal may be allowed. Requests for early dismissal must be made with a note or phone call to the school office from the parent or guardian.
REQUEST for ABSENCE & VACATION DAYS
Requests from parents or guardians to take students on a family vacation during school time should be made five days in advance of the vacation, and should be made in writing to the school office. Requests for a family day should be made several days in advance of the day to be taken, if possible, and should also be made in writing.
For a planned excused absence, such as vacation or a medical situation, it would be in the best interest of the student to obtain their assignments ahead of time.
Family days are healthy and fulfilling, however, please consider your students’ current academic performance when deciding to take them out of school for the day or for a vacation. If a student is struggling academically, missed class time can result in further difficulties with school work.
ATTENDANCE at FUNERALS
Students will be granted an excused absence to attend a funeral when a parent or guardian relays the request.
STUDENT ILLNESS GUIDELINES
Parents should keep a child at home who:
1) Has a fever of 100 degrees or higher.
2) Has had vomiting, diarrhea, or fever within the past 24 hours. The child must be symptom free for the last 24 hours.
3) Has a chronic cough or rash. Skin rashes of unknown origin should be
evaluated by a physician before a child is sent to school.
Students must remain at home for the number of days indicated below if they have any of the following illnesses:
1) CHICKEN POX - a student should remain home until all blisters have scabbed over, usually 5-7 days after the appearance of the first crop of blisters.
2) COMMON COLD - a student should remain home if symptoms are serious enough to interfere with their ability to concentrate and learn. Medical attention should be obtained if symptoms persist beyond 10 days, fever develops, or discharge becomes yellow or green.
3) FEVER - if your student’s temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater (or 1-2 degrees above the child’s normal temperature), he or she should remain home until they have been without fever for a full 24 hours.
4) FLU - a student should remain home from school until symptoms are gone and they are without fever for a full 24 hours.
5) HEAD LICE - following lice infestation, your student may return to school after receiving treatment with a pediculicide shampoo, AND ALL NITS HAVE BEEN REMOVED.
6) IMPETIGO - your student should remain home from school until receiving 48 hours of antibiotic therapy and sores are no longer draining.
7) PAIN - if your student complains, or behavior indicates that he or she is experiencing persistent pain, they should be evaluated by a physician before being sent to school.
8) PINKEYE - your student should remain home from school until receiving 24 hours antibiotic therapy and discharge from the eye has stopped.
9) SKIN RASHES - skin rashes of unknown origin should be evaluated by a physician before your student to sent to school.
10) STREP THROAT AND SCARLET FEVER - a student should remain home
until receiving a full 24 hours of antibiotic therapy and until they have been
without fever or vomiting for 24 hours. Most physicians will advise rest at
home for 1-2 days after a strep infection.
11) VOMITING AND DIARRHEA (INTESTINAL VIRAL
INFECTIONS) - your student should remain at home until they are without vomiting, diarrhea, or fever for a full 24 hours. IF YOUR CHILD HAS HAD ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS DURING THE NIGHT, HE OR SHE MAY NOT BE SENT TO SCHOOL THE FOLLOWING DAY.
Students who have been absent with the following acute contagious diseases will be readmitted to school after 24 hours of adequate therapy with a note from their family physician. The note must indicate that the student is under adequate and effective therapy, or has been judged non-infective. A prescription is required for all of the following:
1) Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
2) Enterobius (Seat worm or Pinworm)
3) Impetigo Contagious
4) Pediculosis Capitis (Lice of Head)
5) Pediculosis Corporis (Lice of Body)
6) Scabies
7) Tinea Capitis (Ringworm of Scalp)
8) Tinea Corporis (Ringworm of Body)
ILLNESS at SCHOOL
In the event that a student becomes ill at school, they will remain in the nurse’s office while either the nurse or another school official notifies a parent or guardian. They will ask that the student be picked up by a responsible adult, or be allowed to drive home if of driving age. Students who are ill should report to the school nurse’s office and remain there until the nurse or school official contacts a parent as to their dismissal.
USING MEDICATION in SCHOOL
Granville Christian Academy school policy states that a student possessing or using prescribed medication during school hours must have a signed medical authorization form from the parent or guardian, and a properly completed physician’s statement on file in the school office. Authorization forms are available from the school nurse. The authorization must include the following:
1) Written permission from the parent or guardian for the student to take the
medication.
2) A physician’s verification of the necessity for medication, name of medication,
dosage, time or intervals at which it is to be taken, duration, and possible side
effects. All prescription and non-prescription medication will be kept in the
school nurse’s office.
3) A statement releasing and holding school personnel harmless from any and all
liability for damages or injuries resulting directly or indirectly from the
presence of the medication in the school or its use by the student. Medications
must be in the original containers and have an affixed label including the
student’s name. Accurate records of the medication given must be kept in the
student’s file.
4) While at school, students may not obtain aspirin, Tylenol, or other over-the-
counter medication from anyone other than the school nurse or assigned
employee acting on the nurse’s behalf. However, these items may be obtained
from the school nurse if there is a signed permission form from the student’s
parents or guardian on file in the Granville Christian Academy nurses office.
If a student is found to be dispensing any kind of over-the-counter or
prescription medication to other students, consequences will be at the discretion
of the school administration.
SCHOOL BUILDING HOURS
Students may enter the building beginning at 7:45 a.m. each day unless involved in a school function that meets before 7:45 a.m. Students involved in before school activities must report directly to the assigned area for the activity. The building must be vacated by Granville Christian Academy students no later than 3:45 p.m. each day. All students must be picked-up before that time. Only students involved in after school activities or those in after-school care should be in the building after 3:45 p.m., and they must report to the assigned area for the activity. Students involved in athletics, who need to remain at school until the start of an event such as practice or a game, must report to the Sanctasium. They must remain there until practice or games begin, or until the coach arrives, unless otherwise instructed. They are to use this time to study or practice. At no time should students be walking or sitting in the hallways after school, or be in classrooms unsupervised. These guidelines must be adhered to by all students. Any student not adhering to these guidelines will receive a Communication Form.
SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS
The Granville Christian Academy school office is open Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. during the school year. The office will close promptly at 3:45 p.m. each day. Hours of operation during the school year will follow the school calendar for breaks and holidays. Summer office hours are Wednesday’s from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
STUDENT ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
All students are to report directly to the Sanctasium when arriving at school in the morning. Any student not following this procedure will be given a Communication Form. Parents or guardians may drop off their students in the morning at the Spring Hills Baptist Church front entrance or may accompany them to the Sanctasium without a visitor pass and without signing in and out. It is preferable that parents do not accompany students to their classroom, except on the first day of school. Classes begin promptly at 8:15 a.m. for grades K-12. Therefore, 8:10 a.m. should be the final time that parents or guardians are on school premises without a visitor badge. Unless there is an emergency, parents should leave the building by 8:10 a.m. so that morning activities may begin promptly.
Students who are car riders will be dismissed at the end of the school day under the front awning of the church building. They will be escorted to that area by their classroom teacher, and will be put into their cars by assigned car duty teachers. Parents must wait in their vehicles in the car lines to pick up their students. Students may not be picked up in the rear of the building, and parents may not enter through the side doors. This policy must be adhered to for the safety of all students, staff, and parents. We will do our best to move through the lines quickly and efficiently. In using this process, there should be little reason for parents to enter the school at this busy time. If it is imperative that a parent or guardian enter the building at close of day, they must sign in and out and acquire a visitor badge.
All bus riders must remain in their classrooms until their bus is called. Any student not following this procedure will be given a Communication Form.
STUDENT VISITOR
Any student genuinely interested in GCA is welcome to visit and may attend classes for a day. If a current GCA student wishes to bring a visitor, they should receive permission from the school office. Student visits will not be permitted on the days immediately preceding and immediately following school vacations or on the last two days of a semester.
STUDENT PICK-UP ARRANGEMENT
A parent or guardian must inform the school via a phone call or written note if someone other than the parent or guardian will be picking up their student on any given day. Students will not be released to anyone but their parent or guardian unless the school has been notified. If arrangements have been made to have someone other than the parent or guardian pick-up a student for the entire school year, or for an extended period of time, the office need only to be notified one time of the dates this will occur.
VISITOR PARKING & PROCEDURES
Granville Christian Academy has been entrusted to take spiritual, academic, and physical care of all its students. The Visitor Policy has been designed to assist us in caring for the physical safety of all students and employees of our school. All visitors to GCA are to have permission of the school office in order to be in the building. All visitors must sign in and out at the school office and receive a visitor badge. (A visitor badge is not necessary if the visitor will only be in the school office, however, they must still sign in and out). This badge must be visibly worn at all times when a visitor is in our building for any reason, no matter how short or how long the visit. The badge must be returned to the office when signing out. If a visitor is in the building without a badge, they will be escorted to the school administrative offices for the proper visitor procedures.
Visitors must park in front of Granville Christian Academy in the designated parking section, or in front of the Spring Hills Baptist Church building. Parking is not permitted around the circle in front of the school or in the rear of the building. Cars will be unable to park in front of the school at the end of the day due to buses. When parking in front of SHBC, the front school entrance must be used. Visitors may not enter through the doors of the church.
All students, staff, and parent drivers should adhere to the following rules when driving in the Spring Hills Baptist Church and Granville Christian Academy parking lot:
1) Slow down when entering the driveway.
2) Drive slowly. A maximum of 5 mph must be observed.
3) Stay in the driving lanes.
4) Do not drive through the parking lanes.
5) Watch for children who may walk between cars.
ADMINISTRATION & FACULTY APPOINTMENTS
Under God’s direction and guidance the school administration and staff are here to serve the students and parents of Granville Christian Academy. We welcome parents to be a part of their students’ education and see the learning process in action. Therefore, in order to serve our students and parents in the best manner possible, it is important that administration and staff know when a parent might be coming by to visit the classroom or to talk with them about a concern.
Teachers are available to meet with parents during a planning period they may have during the day. Our teachers plan their day to give your students the best education possible. Without a planned visit, the entire classroom is affected by time constraints, and students are unable to receive the full benefits of the teachers’ scheduled activities. Please consider this when you need to see your student’s teacher, and call the school office to leave the teacher a voice mail. They will return your call during a time that will not interfere with classroom activities.
The Administration is available to meet with parents during the school day. Working with students and staff, school planning, scheduled events, and meetings can make it difficult for the administration to serve as effectively and efficiently as possible without knowing when a break might occur in their day. Please consider this when you need to see them, and call to schedule an appointment when you need to talk with one of them.
Family time is so very precious to you and your family, and hours spent after school are used to share special times and tend to family needs. We ask that you realize the employees of Granville Christian Academy cherish those same times with their families as well, and trust you will respect their time away from school:
• Please refrain from discussing school issues at sporting or other school events in which employees are there to watch their own children or their students.
• Please refrain from calling employees at home without their permission to do so, or unless there is an emergency. *Emergencies exist when conditions make it impractical or impossible to delay a message.* Emergencies are not questions regarding dress down days, test scores, or shopping trips for school events, etc.
• School questions or student issues should be discussed during regular school business days or during conferences.
GRIEVANCE PROTOCOL
Parents may sometimes have concerns with the GCA administration or staff. It is imperative that everyone remain biblical in the way in which these concerns are addressed. Matthew 18:15 & 16 tells us, “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”
Discussing concerns with the individual GCA employee with which you have the concern is productive and proper, and steers away from gossip. Discussing your concerns with individuals other than those with which you have a concern leads to gossip, slander, untruths, hurt feelings, and no solution. The following protocol should be used for grievances at GCA:
1) Confer with the individual with whom you have a concern, showing restraint and
respect.
2) If the conference does not resolve the concern, and the concern is with a staff
member, parents should confer with the principal or the administrator. A
conference will be scheduled with the administrator or principal, the parents,
and the staff member.
3) If this conference does not resolve the concern, the parents may confer with the
school board.
4) If the concern is originally with the principal, parents should proceed with step #1
and if not resolved, parents should confer with the administrator.
5) If the concern is originally with the administrator, parents should proceed with
step #1 and if not resolved, the parents should confer with the school board.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT AREAS
PARENT SERVICE HOURS
Funding and family involvement are important components that allow Granville Christian Academy the capacity to provide each student with a variety of opportunities for growth. Much of the success of the academic and extracurricular programs at GCA depends upon the personal involvement of individuals to get the job done. Successful Christian schools throughout the country share the common characteristic of a high level of parental involvement. Each family that enrolls a student in a Christian school has done so because they desire more for their child. This desire can only be attained when schools and parents work together as a team. GCA has a need for volunteers during school hours, as well as during evenings and weekends. Volunteers are needed for tutoring, lunchroom assistance, recess monitoring, room parents, assisting teachers, concession help at sporting events, and much more.
Each family at Granville Christian Academy is required to participate in a minimum of 25 hours of service work during each school year. Grand-parents are also welcome to assist parents in fulfilling these hours. If a minimum of 25 hours is not recorded for a family by the last day of the school year, the family must purchase their service hours at a rate of $20.00 per hour. Therefore, a family may choose to work their service hours, or to provide the funding for the school to hire others to carry out specific school needs. If neither option is exercised by the end of the school year, the student’s registration for the following school year becomes void. The student will be unable to return to GCA the following school year unless one of the service hour options is met. All families must abide by the following service hour guidelines:
• The 25 hour requirement must be fulfilled by May 1st of each school year, or
• The 25 hour requirement must actually be scheduled by May 1st of each school year, to be completed by the end of the school day on the last day of school.
• Any service hours fulfilled during summer break will apply to the upcoming school year.
Parents will either be notified of areas where help is needed, or they may call the PTF Service Hour Coordinator for information. Service hour forms can be found in the PTF mailbox outside the school office. When an increment of the required hours is fulfilled, a service hour form must be fully completed and returned to the PTF box outside the school office.
Granville Christian Academy believes that family and fellowship are essential ingredients to a Christian lifestyle. Children spend almost as much time at school during the school year as parents spend at their jobs. It is a place where they meet friends and create their own niche. GCA believes it is necessary to be in touch with your child by being a part of their world. We also believe that every parent and child will benefit from the time invested in this common family interest, that interest being our school. Parents will fellowship with other parents in an environment conducive to teaching their children godly characteristics, godly choices, and a godly lifestyle. Together, with servants’ hearts, we will grow stronger in the Lord.
CLASSROOM PARTIES
Classroom parties during school hours are a fun part of school days that students, parents, and teachers look forward to and enjoy. We encourage parents with students of all ages to join in these activities.
FIELD TRIPS
Teachers at Granville Christian Academy are encouraged to take their classes on field trips to enrich the learning process. Parents will receive advance notice of all activities that will take their students away from school property and regular classes. Signed permission slips must be returned to the classroom teacher in order for students to be a part of the trip. The cost of the field trip is a personal expense. The teacher must be informed if the parent does not want their student to participate.
Elementary students who are not participating in a field trip should not be sent to school during the designated hours for the field trip as their teacher will be on the field trip with the class.
High school and middle school students should be sent to school if they are not participating in the field trip.
Parents, guardians, or grandparents driving on field trips must submit a copy of their valid Ohio Driver’s License to the school office. Each passenger riding in a private vehicle to and from any school related event is required to wear a seat belt. In addition, all drivers on field trips must return to the school at the end of the field trip if they have any student passenger in their vehicle outside of their own child or grand-child. This procedure must be adhered to even if the field trip will cause a return to school at the close of the day. There can be no exceptions to this policy. We encourage parents and grandparents with students of all ages to join in field trip activities.
5th & 6th GRADE CAMP FIELD TRIP – In Spring of calendar years ending in an odd number, students in 5th and 6th grade attend Camp Patmos on Kelley’s Island. Teachers and parents chaperone this educational camp grounded in Christian values.
7th & 8th GRADE WASHINGTON D.C. FIELD TRIP – In Spring of calendar years ending in an even number, students in 7th and 8th grade visit Washington D.C. Teachers and parents chaperone this educational trip.
SENIOR TRIP – In Spring of each calendar year, senior students participate in a trip consisting of service work and site seeing before their graduation. Parents and a school staff member chaperone this trip.
FUNDRAISERS
Granville Christian Academy plans fundraisers throughout the school year to provide additional funding for various areas of the school. Some of these areas include purchasing items for classrooms and teachers to enrich the learning environment, and providing funding for special speakers and special events for students and Parent/ Teacher Fellowship.
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Granville Christian Academy schedules Parent/Teacher Conferences two times per school year to discuss academic, behavioral, and general issues relative to students’ school success. Parents or guardians will be notified of the conference dates and available time slots, and will be asked to select a time to meet with teachers. All high school and middle school students must attend conferences with their parents. Please make every effort to attend these conferences.
In addition, parents and teachers may schedule a conference any time throughout the school year to discuss concerns they may have.
PARENT/TEACHER FELLOWSHIP
The Granville Christian Academy Parent/Teacher Fellowship is an organization designed to build a network of prayer, support, and fellowship between families and teachers. A good parent/teacher relationship is necessary for maximum school success. PTF raises funds to purchase items requested by the teachers that will enrich student’s education. PTF also organizes events for teachers such as appreciation luncheons and meals on parent/teacher conference days, and provides many fun activities and special events for our students. Two ongoing fundraisers fully operated by the GCA PTF are Market Day and SCRIPT.
PTF meetings are held to develop strong school ties and new ideas for strengthening the support of GCA. Attendance at meetings will count toward required service hours. Membership is open to all families who wish to further academics and relationships at Granville Christian Academy. Cost of membership is $5.00 per family, and the membership fees are used to provide a PTF college scholarship for a graduating senior.
SCHOOL CLOSING AND DELAYS
Granville Christian Academy may cancel school or begin on a delay when weather conditions produce hazardous driving conditions or dangerously low temperatures. Please note that if a starting delay occurs on a Friday for Granville Christian Academy, there will be no Kindergarten classes.
Official notification of school closings and delays will be broadcast over the following media centers:
RADIO
FM Stations - WCLT 100.3 AM Stations - WHTH 790
WBNS 97.1 WBNS 1460
WCVZ 92.7 WCLT 1430
WNKO 101.7
TELEVISION
WCMH NBC - 4
WSYX ABC – 6
WTTE FOX – 28
WBNS CBS – 10
GCA students represent many public school districts. It is possible that GCA may have school on a day when your local school district may be cancelled or delayed. In this situation, parents should use discretion and determine if it is safe to transport their student to school. Please call the school office if you choose not to send your student. These situations would be considered an excused absence or tardy, and the student is responsible for completing all missed assignments. If both your local school district and GCA are open and not on a delay, your student is expected to attend school on time. An unexcused absence or tardy will be issued if students are not in school or on time under these circumstances.
If severe weather conditions strike unexpectedly during the school day, GCA may release students from school early. In this situation, the cancellation will be broadcast over the above media centers. Please be sure that your family has a well established plan for situations such as these, and be certain that the plan has been fully discussed with your student. Students must be picked up promptly if they will not be riding the bus, as GCA employees must leave early, as well, due to the weather conditions. Phone calls to and from the school should be kept to a minimum in these cases.
REGISTRATION, ADMITTANCE, & TUITION POLICIES
Granville Christian Academy is a chartered private Christian school financially operating on funds provided by registration, tuition, generous donations, and any fees that may be charged in various areas. Because GCA is chartered by the state of Ohio, we receive funding from the state that may be used to purchase specific items. This funding is a blessing to our school, however, what may purchase with those funds is extremely limited, and may not be used for operating costs. The operating budget for the school is based on enrollment tuition. Employee salaries, supplies, and monthly bills are paid from the tuition commitment that families have made. Granville Christian Academy has made a commitment, not only to its students and families, but also to its employees, who are those committed to educating and nurturing our students. GCA is devoted to operating under the Biblical principles of paying what is due to those who are owed, and keeping our school from debt. Romans 13:7 tells us, “Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; If you owe revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
In order to meet our commitments on a timely basis, Granville Christian Academy has adopted the following tuition policy:
REGISTRATION
Registration for the next school year begins in February of each year. A family must have all current school year tuition paid in full in order to receive a registration packet for the upcoming school year. Tuition from the previous school year must be paid in full, along with the August payment for the new school year, in order for a student to return the following year and to attend on the first day of school.
In order for a student to be registered, a registration packet must be fully completed and submitted by current and new students. The full registration fee is $200.00 per student, and $50.00 of that fee is due at registration and is non-refundable. The remaining $150.00 of the registration fee is due no later than the first Friday in June. A student’s position will not be held after that date, and absence of the full registration fee will create an opening for another student wishing to attend GCA. Any student enrolling once open enrollment has begun must pay the full $200.00 registration fee at the time of enrollment.
STUDENT ADMISSION
All new students and their families will be interviewed before final acceptance into GCA. Through prayer and obedience to God’s will, the GCA administration seeks to find the best environment for current students as well as those applying for admittance. The administration does reserve the right to accept or deny admittance to Granville Christian Academy according to what is seen, through God’s direction, as that which best accommodates all parties involved.
TUITION PAYMENT
In order to assist families with the ease of a “no hassle” tuition payment plan, and to aid our school in meeting its financial obligations on time, GCA has contracted with FACTS Management for tuition collection and management. All families attending GCA must pay tuition through FACTS Management, and no tuition payments are accepted in the school office. A family may choose to have tuition deducted from their checking or savings account, or may use Visa, MasterCard, or Discover for payment. Please note that GCA does not promote credit cards indebted-ness in any way. However, for those families who use their credit cards to receive frequent flyer miles, monetary “kick-backs,” free gifts, etc., we have permitted credit card payments, and these are handled through FACTS Management as well. You may receive full information on the FACTS Management payment process in the school office.
Tuition is paid on a ten month basis at Granville Christian Academy, August through May. If a family chooses to pay the full year’s tuition in advance, they will receive a $100.00 discount per student. Please note that when more than one student in a family is enrolled at GCA, there is a tuition price break. There is no price break for Kindergarten, regardless of the number of students a family has enrolled. August tuition must be paid in order for a student to begin school on the first day of the school year. The first tuition payment in August is due by the date you have designated on your FACTS Management form. Tuition must be paid in full each month in order for a student’s position as GCA to remain secured. If tuition is not paid before the last day of a month, parents will receive a tuition arrears letter indicating the amount owed. If payment for the previous month and the current month are not paid in full by the third week of the current month, parent’s will receive a letter indicating that their student’s last day of school will be the last school day of the current month.
FINANCIAL HARDSHIP
Should a family experience financial hardship that effects their ability to meet the tuition obligation agreement, they may submit in writing to the GCA Administrator, a request for a temporary change of the tuition policy explaining their situation, and a plan for payment. This information will be reviewed, and the possibility of special arrangements will be considered. If special arrangements are granted, both the parents and the administrator will sign an agreement to the specific arrangements made. If the arrangements are not adhered to, the student(s) will be dismissed from GCA.
DRESS CODE GUIDELINES
Granville Christian Academy has adopted an official school uniform as the basis for the K-12 dress code. This dress code is designed to reflect the seriousness of purpose which each student should bring to their studies. Furthermore, GCA believes that parents or guardians and their students are equally responsible to make dress and grooming choices appropriate to this code.
Uniforms must be purchased only at the following stores:
School Days School Days
73 N. Stygler Road 4507 N. High Street
Gahanna, Ohio 43230 Columbus, Ohio 43214
1(800) 627-2409 1(614) 846-1988
The administration of Granville Christian Academy reserves the right to make discretionary decisions concerning this code and individual cases. Students will receive a Communication Form for violations of the dress code. At the discretion of the administration, students wearing attire or accessories out of dress code may be sent home to change once a parent or guardian has been notified, or parents may bring proper attire to their student. It is the students’ responsibility to approach teachers for assignments, test, or quizzes that were missed due to dress code infractions. Time missed from class due to dress code infractions is considered unexcused. GCA students are to arrive at school in proper uniform attire, as defined by the following dress code guidelines, and are to remain in proper uniform attire until the end of the school day:
GENERAL GUIDELINES for ALL STUDENTS
1) The official school uniform is to be worn every day unless special dress down instructions have been approved by the school administrator.
2) Clothing must be in good condition, free of holes, tears, and frays.
3) Oversized clothing is not permitted.
4) Oxford cloth shirts must be buttoned from the second button from the top, down. Collar buttons must be buttoned down, and shirt cuffs must be buttoned unless they are rolled up. (If wearing a tie, the top button of the shirt must be buttoned).
5) Long-sleeved shirts may not be worn under short-sleeved shirts.
6) Shirts must always be tucked in pants, shorts, and skirts. Shirts hems may not be folded up and under to look as though they are tucked in.
7) Pants may not drag the ground, be frayed, or slit on the sides of the hems.
8) Pants and shorts may not be worn in a “low-riding” position, but must be worn as they are made to fit.
9) Shorts may be worn from the first day of school and continue to Thanksgiving Break. Students may resume wearing shorts on the first day after Spring Break and continue through the end of the school year.
10) Undergarments must be worn for assured modesty.
11) Plain white T-shirts are the only color permitted under uniform shirts.
12) A belt is required with uniform pants and shorts.
13) School uniform sweaters and vests are the only outerwear garments permitted
to be worn throughout the school day. Sweatshirts (pullover, zipped, hooded,
etc.), jackets, coats, vests, sweaters, or any non-uniform items are not
permitted.
14) Apparel at school related activities must be modest and appropriate and must
adhere to the dress code guidelines.
15) Hair should be of natural colors. Dyeing of unnatural hair colors (burgundy,
green, blue, etc.), bleaching, or styles that draw undue attention are not
permitted. Any hair coloring should only complement the existing color, thus
the natural color remains consistent throughout the entire school year.
16) Hair may not be spiked.
17) Hair must be kept out of the eyes.
18) Students must wear, with all shoes, a sock, footie, or type of hosiery, in a color
that coordinates with the school uniform.
19) Tennis shoes, dress, casual shoes, and clogs are permitted. (All students must
wear tennis shoes for physical education classes). Sandals, flip-flops, and
slipper type shoes are not permitted.
20) All shoe strings must be tied and not just “tucked in” the shoe.
21) Hats may not be worn in the school building during school hours.
22) Chains (choker chains, wallet chains, dog chains, etc.) are not permitted.
23) Black nail polish and black lipstick are not permitted.
24) No punk or gothic look is permitted in hair, make-up, jewelry, clothing, or
any other realm.
25) SENIORS ONLY – All seniors are permitted to dress down every Friday using the following guidelines:
• Only the official GCA approved senior shirt may be worn on Friday’s. If the senior shirt is not worn, the student must be in uniform.
• Seniors are permitted to wear flip-flops and sandals on Friday’s only if they are dressed down.
• There is no fee for seniors to dress down every Friday.
• All other dress down guidelines apply.
SPECIFIC GUIDELINES for FEMALES
1) School uniform shorts, skirts, and jumpers must be no more than two (2)
inches above the knee.
2) Skirts may not be rolled at the waistband.
3) Turtlenecks may be worn only under a dress code sweater, long-sleeved oxford
cloth shirt, or jumper.
4) Undergarments must be worn.
5) Earrings are the only pierced jewelry permitted. Any earrings must be actual
earrings and not items such as safety pins, paper-clips, etc. Earrings must be
worn only in the ear lobe.
6) Excessive or inappropriate jewelry will be addressed individually.
7) Hair accessories must coordinate with the uniform.
8) Extreme or eccentric hairstyles will be determined by the administration and
addressed individually.
SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR MALES
1) No earrings or other pierced jewelry of any kind are permitted at school or at
any school sponsored or sanctioned event.
2) Hair must be kept clean and well groomed.
a) Hair length must be cut and styled so that the hair does not fall into the eyes.
b) Hair may be no longer that the bottom of the ear on the sides, may not be
longer than the top of the collar in the back.
c) Hair may be no longer than the top of the eyebrows.
d) No design may be shaved into the hair, nor are partial or fully shaven heads
permitted.
e) Extreme or eccentric hairstyles will be addressed individually.
f) Sideburns may not extend below the bottom of the ear.
g) Boys must be clean shaven at all times. Facial hair or shadow look is not
permitted.
DRESS CODE VARIABLES
The following variations are part of the official Granville Christian Academy uniform dress code, and may be mixed and matched as the student chooses as long as they remain within the guidelines that follow this section:
PANTS: Khaki or Navy; pleated or flat front.
SHORTS: Khaki or Navy (girls may also choose the official uniform plaid shorts); pleated or flat front.
JUMPERS AND SKIRTS: Must be the official GCA uniform plaid; must be the official GCA style, i.e. fitted waist jumper and box pleat skirt.
OXFORD CLOTH SHIRTS: Short or Long Sleeved in Light Blue or White with a button down collar.
POLO SHIRTS: Short or Long Sleeved in Hunter Green, Navy, Red, White, or Yellow; hemmed or banded sleeves.
PETER PAN COLLAR SHIRTS: Girls may choose from either Short or Long Sleeved in Light Blue or White.
TURTLE NECKS: Navy, Red, White or Yellow.
DRESS CODE GUIDELINES FOR
SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS
DRESS DOWN DAYS
Throughout the school year, there will be Dress Down Days on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month. Students may dress down for the price of $1.00 per Dress Down Day. Dressing down is not required, and if a student chooses not to dress down they will need to be in proper school uniform attire. All money collected from Dress Down Days will go toward various school groups such as high school classes for funding toward Homecoming, Prom, and special events, Foreign Language Clubs, Student Council, Athletic Boosters, and causes such as Heartbeats, Salvation Army, etc.
PERMITTED ATTIRE
Students must wear a Granville Christian Academy logo T-shirt, hoodie, sweatshirt, jean shirt, or polo shirt. These items may be purchased from the school store. GCA athletic team T-shirts and jerseys may be worn as well. Jeans, jean shorts, cargo pants, cargo shorts, warm-up pants, etc. may be worn. Pants and shorts of any kind must be hemmed and in good condition, and pants may not drag the ground. No holes, ripped clothing, or cut-offs may be worn. The “time of year” guidelines and length of shorts for Dress Down Day shorts are the same as for uniform shorts. All other general dress code guidelines apply.
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
The Administration and staff of Granville Christian Academy expects that school standards of modesty and appropriate taste will be observed at school functions such as athletic events, school dances, fundraising events, special dress down days, etc. by both GCA students and their guests. Guests of students must follow the same guidelines as students. The school officials in charge of such events reserve the right to exclude any student and/or their guest who do not observe appropriate standards. A student and their visitor will be asked to leave the function or event if their attire and appearance do not strictly adhere to the GCA “Special Events Guidelines” set forth in this handbook. A school committee will approve dresses for formal and informal school dances.
Award events and school concerts require students to wear dress clothes. No shorts, jeans, T-shirts, warm-ups, etc. are permitted.
Field trips require students to be in proper school uniform code. However, teachers will advise parents if other attire is permitted. Students who arrive at school dressed inappropriately for the event or field trip will not be permitted to attend the event. They will not be permitted to leave, change, and return. When the student does not attend the scheduled field trip it will be considered an unexcused absence.
GCA does observe special dress down days throughout the school year. These days are meant to be fun, and not meant to dress in styles that we should not emulate in our Christian walk. It is expected that students will use discretion and uphold the values of young Christians when choosing their attire for these types of functions.
1) No “punk rock or gothic” type face painting is permitted. Only face painting
that would coincide with our mascot such as a lion or paw print is permitted.
2) Black nail polish and black lipstick are not permitted.
3) No punk or gothic look is permitted in hair, make-up, jewelry, clothing, or any
other realm.
4) No actual body piercing jewelry or imitation body piercing jewelry is
permitted. Earrings are permitted for females only and may be worn only in
the ear lobe.
5) T-shirts with inappropriate words or innuendos are not permitted.
6) All other special event guidelines apply.
SPECIAL EVENT GUIDELINES FOR FEMALES
1) Tight fitting and midriff exposing clothing is not permitted at any school
function. This includes both formal and informal dances.
2) Open back dresses should fall no lower that the small of the back.
3) Plunging or revealing front necklines are inappropriate.
4) Transparent fabrics may not be worn over the bodice area unless there is a
non-transparent fabric beneath it.
5) Dresses above the knee should be no shorter than two (2) inches above the knee
to assure modesty when lifting the arms or bending forward.
6) Dresses below the knee should be designed with a slit that is no higher than two
(2) inches above the knee.
7) Shorts should be no shorter than two (2) inches above the knee.
8) Undergarments must be worn.
9) Earrings are the only pierced jewelry permitted, and they must be worn only in
the ear lobe. Any earrings must be actual earrings and not items such as safety
pins, paper clips, etc.
10) Hair should be of natural colors. Dyeing of unnatural hair colors (burgundy,
green, blue, etc.), bleaching, or styles that draw undue attention are not
permitted. Any hair coloring should only highlight or complement your existing
color, thus the natural color remains consistent throughout the entire school
year.
11) Hair may not be spiked.
12) Chains (choker chains, wallet chains, dog chains, etc.) are not permitted.
13) All other special event guidelines apply.
SPECIAL EVENT GUIDELINES for MALES
1) Shirts are required.
2) Boys are to wear appropriate shirts and pants.
3) Ties must be worn at school dances unless otherwise specified.
4) No T-shirts are permitted to be worn at school dances unless otherwise
specified.
5) Undergarments must be worn.
6) No body piercing jewelry may be worn. This includes earrings.
7) Hair should be of natural colors. Dyeing of unnatural hair colors (burgundy,
green, blue, etc.), bleaching, or styles that draw undue attention are not
permitted. Any hair coloring should only highlight or complement your existing
color, thus the natural color remains consistent throughout the entire school
year.
9) Hair may not be spiked.
10) Chains (choker chains, wallet chains, dog chains, etc.) are not permitted.
CONSEQUENCES for DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS
When a Granville Christian Academy student arrives for the school day, and is not dressed according to the guidelines set forth in this handbook, the student will be informed of the violation, receive a Communication Form, and asked to correct the problem. As stated in the “Dress Code Guidelines” paragraph, the student will be sent home to change, or their parents or guardian may bring their clothing to the school. However, the student must remain in the school office until the proper clothing arrives. It is the student’s responsibility to approach their teacher for assignments, tests, or quizzes that were missed due to dress code infractions.
A Communication Form will be issued to students for violations of dress code at school functions or events. Guests of students must follow the same guidelines as students. The school officials in charge of such events reserve the right to exclude any student and/or their guest who does not observe appropriate standards. A student and their visitor will be asked to leave the function or event if their attire and appearance does not strictly adhere to the GCA “Special Event Guidelines” set forth in this handbook. They will not be permitted to leave, change, and return. There will be no re-entry to the same function from which the student was dismissed. The administration reserves the right to take action as they deem necessary for patterns of continual dress code infractions.
ACADEMIC AREAS
ACADEMIC AWARDS
High school students may earn academic awards for any given year by maintaining a 3.5 grade point average in any three of the four grading periods per school year. Awards are as follows:
1st year earned –Academic letter and pin
2nd year earned –Year bar
3rd year earned – Year bar
4th year earned – Year bar
ACADEMIC PROBATION
A student at GCA will be placed on academic probation for any of the following:
1) If their overall GPA or their current 9-week GPA is below a 2.00.
2) If they receive, on their grade card, the grade of “F” in one or more courses
for a 9-week grading period.
3) If they receive, on their grade card, the grade of “D” in two or more courses
for a 9-week grading period.
4) If they receive, on their grade card, the grade of “F” in two or more core
courses for a 9-week grading period. In addition, the student will be tested by
their school district for academic difficulties, and if found to have special
needs, will be transferred from GCA immediately for intervention.
The following conditions apply to students on academic probation:
1) The probationary period will be for the duration of the next 9-week grading period. (A student who receives academic probation as a result of the grades from the last 9 weeks of the school year will be on academic probation for the first 9-week grading period of the following school year).
2) Parents will be notified via letter that their student is on academic probation.
3) A student will be removed from academic probation when they no longer meet the academic probation requirements previously listed. Removal will occur only at the end of a 9-week grading period when grade cards have been reviewed and confirmed by the Guidance Counselor.
4) Parents will be notified via letter when their student is removed from
academic probation.
Throughout the probationary period, teachers and the Guidance Counselor will monitor the student’s progress. Repeated placement on academic probation is an indication that GCA may not be meeting the student’s academic needs. Should a student remain on academic probation for two consecutive grading periods, the administration will meet together with the student, parents, and Guidance Counselor to discuss possible alternative educational options. This may mean that the student will need to leave GCA to attend another educational facility that might improve their opportunities for academic success.
FAILING A COURSE
High school students must receive a passing grade in their courses in order to receive credits toward graduation. 8th grade students must pass Algebra I if enrolled in that class, in order to receive credit toward graduation. Required courses must be repeated if they are failed. If approved by the school Guidance Counselor, elective courses may be repeated to receive passing or higher grades. No course may be repeated without Guidance Counselor approval. If a course is repeated, the new grade will automatically be the final grade for that course, and will also be the grade recorded on the student’s