LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Faculty & Staff Handbook 2011-2012

LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Faculty & Staff Handbook 2011-2012

“Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Table of Contents

Title Page

Mission Statement …...... 2 Vision Statement …...... 2 Statement of Faith …...... 2 Academic Eligibility …...... 4 Accreditation …...... 5 ACSI Competitions …...... 5 ACSI Conferences …...... 5 Assemblies …...... 5 Attendance …...... 6 Communication …...... 9 Devotions …...... 11 Discipline Guidelines …...... 11 Dress code Guidelines …...... 12 Duty Times …...... 13 Emergency Procedures …...... 14 Electronic Usage Policy …...... 14 Extra Credit Policy …...... 15 Extra Curricular Activities …...... 16 Field Trips …...... 16 Homework Objectives …...... 17 Intervention period …...... 19 Mentoring & Buddy Program …...... 19 Non-Denomination Position …...... 19 Parent Interaction Guidelines …...... 19 Pledges …...... 20 PowerSchool & PowerTeacher…...... 21 Record Keeping …...... 22 Safety Procedures …...... 23 Sick Days and Personal Days …...... 23 Special Needs …...... 24 Staff Meetings …...... 24 Student Programs & School Activities…...... 25 Supply Monitoring …...... 25 Teacher Job Description …...... 25 Teacher & Staff Guidelines …...... 25 Non-Discriminatory Statement…...... 26 Walk with the Lord …...... 26

1 Mission Statement

The mission of Lighthouse Christian Academy is to partner with Christian parents to provide a biblically integrated and academically excellent education to develop each child’s Christ-like character, intellectual ability and physical health to the glory of God.

Vision Statement

LCA is an interdenominational school that glorifies God in supporting Christian families by providing a biblically integrated and academically excellent education. An LCA student will be equipped to impact his world by exhibiting strong, Christian character including service to God and to others, and by demonstrating academic achievement, biblical leadership, and the ability to articulate and defend a Christian world view in all areas of life.

Statement of Faith

 We believe the Bible, the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, to be the only infallible, inspired and authoritative Word of God.

 We believe there is only one God, eternally existent in three persons, God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

 We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His atoning death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory.

 We believe that God created man, male and female, in His own image.

 We believe that Adam and Eve’s disobedience to God brought sin into the world. Man thus alienated himself from God, his neighbor, and the world. All mankind except Jesus Christ are born sinners, have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.

 We believe Jesus Christ is the ONLY Savior of sinners, the ONLY way to the Father. Christ died as a substitute for sinners and was raised from the dead so that man could be reconciled to God.

 We believe that eternal life is a gift of God received personally through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. Eternal life is neither deserved by anyone nor can it be earned by good deeds.

 We believe that the true Church is composed of all persons who, through saving faith in Jesus Christ and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, are united together in the body of Christ. The Church finds her visible, yet imperfect, expression in local congregations where the Word of God is preached in its purity; where the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are administered in their integrity; where scriptural discipline is practiced; and where loving fellowship is maintained.

 We believe that God has charged parents with the responsibility of bringing up their children in the ‘nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4) Christian schools can be of great assistance to the parents in this crucial task.

2 Philosophy of Education

The Lighthouse Christian Academy (LCA) philosophy of education is based upon the biblical teaching that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge. God, being the only Creator and Sustainer of the Universe, and the only Savior of men otherwise hopelessly lost in sin, being infinite in contrast to the finite limitations of the human intellect, must be at the head and at the core of the educational process for that process to be valid. Since God has revealed Himself in the Incarnate Word (Jesus Christ the Eternal Son) and in the Written Word (the Bible), the knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Bible becomes the key and the coordinating principle of education that is Christian.

The ultimate goal of all education, according to 1 Corinthians 10:31, is to help man achieve life’s purpose: to glorify God and to serve Him in every area of life. The Word of God is the explicit revelation of God and is the primary means by which we pursue the goal of education. In light of this fact, emphasis must be placed on learning and applying the Scriptures during the school day. Christian education should also encourage the student to develop attitudes and behaviors consistent with biblical principles, including the teaching of absolutes that are necessary for making decisions that affect one's relationship to God and interactions with others.

The training and education of children and youth is primarily the responsibility of parents (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 78:1-7). LCA assists and supports parents in training up their children in the way they should go, so that when they are old they will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). LCA strongly encourages parents to be actively involved by being aware of the process, content, and progress of their children’s education. Since the Bible gives primary responsibility to parents to bring up their children in the “discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4), LCA does not replace parents but, rather, acts in cooperation with them. Parents are biblically responsible for the Christian character and behavioral development of their children.

According to Psalm 24:1, all of creation and all its aspects belong to God. In Genesis 1:27-28, we are told that man is created in God’s image and is given charge as a steward of this creation. Because of this, students are to be taught to understand the creation in all its aspects, not as an end in itself, but as a means to knowing and serving God. Hence, an effective education will expose them to the fullness of creation, help them develop fully in every part of their lives, and give them skills necessary to serve God as well as society. Since a true understanding of the world in which we live cannot be gained apart from knowledge of the Creator, all aspects of the curriculum should incorporate a distinctly Christian world and life view, taking into account God’s revelation of Himself.

A primary portion of our service to God as outlined in Exodus 20:1-17 and Mark 12:30-31 is to center around loving our neighbors. To this end, a full education must include an emphasis on acquiring and understanding the tools for communication and learning. In addition, students should understand the history and state of the culture within which they will serve God through their dealings with their neighbors. A Christian education should lead to the development of a strong, Christ-like character and a lifestyle of service, displaying the fruit of the Spirit through living in the truth of God’s Word and serving our neighbors and the broader society.

LCA takes seriously the responsibility to carefully choose teachers who will support the mission of the school by being exemplary in their craft and in their conduct. LCA is committed to supporting its faculty in carrying out the vision and mission of the school.

The Work and Ministry of the Educator

Educators are called by God to help raise up the young in the ways of faith. Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior, was also a teacher. He gathered His disciples and others around Him and taught with such conviction and truth that many who heard him were astonished, causing them to ask, “Where did this man get all this? What is the wisdom given to him? What mighty works are wrought by his hand?” (from Mark 6:2). His apostles, likewise, were teachers and gave witness with great power, through their words and their deeds, and gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all (from Acts 4:33). 3

The ministry of teaching obligates the LCA educator to assist his or her students in understanding not only mathematics or physics, but how the order and discipline of mathematics or physics reveals the person and mind of God. It obligates one not only to instruct in geography and history, but to inculcate the faith by helping the students know that God created the mountains, the sea, the rivers, the deserts, the forests, the plains, and all the creatures that inhabit them, and to learn that human discoveries, empires, conflicts, and social movements are measured by the divinely ordained order. The ministry of teaching requires one not only to help students acquire skill in spelling, reading, grammar, and writing, but also to understand that human language is a primary means by which students might explore the wonders of poetry and narrative and Sacred Scripture itself; all of which indirectly or directly disclose salvation history. Regardless of the subject, true teachers minister to their students by helping them follow Paul’s admonition:

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you. (Phil. 4:8-9)

Educators in a Christian school must be ever mindful that they instruct not only through rational explanation of formal subject material but even more powerfully through word, deed, example, and shared experience. Simply put, they teach the faith by modeling the faith and by modeling faithfulness. This is why all teachers, even before their first meeting with students, must subscribe to the school’s Statement of Faith. This is why teachers are required to give a godly example, both at school and away. Teachers must teach truth and avoid falsehood.

Therefore, putting away falsehood, let everyone speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. … Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for edifying, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4: 25, 29)

Educators minister to their students by providing them with faith experiences. They lead the youth in prayer, praise, and mercy. Paul urged Christians to, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander to be put away from you, with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32). Teachers also model the Christian life by being active in their own church community and by serving as an intermediary, assisting their students in becoming active in their respective church communities so that those students might be further nurtured in faith with their friends and family around them.

No better passage of Scripture might better articulate the character modeled by the LCA educator than that found in Matthew 5:3-16. What may be described as our theme verse is found in the last verse of this passage.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY OF ATHLETES

To be eligible to participate in school athletics, LCA student athletes must have an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher with no D’s or no F’s at the time eligibility is determined.

Eligibility will be based on:  Fall Sports-final grades at the end of the previous school year  Winter Sports-grades at the end of the first report period  Spring Sports-grades at the end of the first semester If student athletes are not eligible at this time, they are not eligible for that sport season.

4 Grades of eligible athletes will be checked at regular intervals. If an athlete has become ineligible, the athlete will have two weeks to raise the grades. During that time they may practice but not play in games. If the grades are not raised, the athlete will be ineligible for the rest of that sport season. Checkpoints: Fall Sports- Midterm progress report for first report period Winter Sports- Midterm progress report for second report period First semester grades Spring Sports- Third report period grades

Except for the initial eligibility for ninth graders playing fall sports, eligibility for high school students will be based only on high school grades. Eligibility for fall sports for elementary and junior high athletes will be based on the students’ grades at the end of the previous school year. Overall GPA will not apply.

Anytime a student is declared ineligible, they may appeal to the Administration for an exemption. An exemption may be granted for a student athlete who gives evidence that they are making a legitimate effort, but still struggling to maintain an eligible grade.

All eligibility and ineligibility determinations are subject to review and approval of the Administration.

Accreditation and Membership

LCA is accredited by the State of Indiana, having been accorded Freeway status by the Indiana State aboard of Education in April, 2007, and is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

ACSI Competitions

Each year LCA participates in a variety of competitions sponsored by ACSI. The competitions are usually during the second semester but often require preparation in advance during the first semester to ensure eligibility. Competitions we typically participate in and have participated in include Art Festival, Creative Writing, Spelling Bee, Math By Mail, Speech Meet, and Science Fair.

Besides ACSI competitions, we participate in other music programs and science fairs.

ACSI Conference

ACSI is moving to a new format for its conferences called NEXUS. Several ACSI districts have gone together to develop a program that will be broadcast live from Chicago to sites across the United States. The closest site for us will be Kingsway Christian school in Indianapolis. We will not be deciding about our participation until we receive more details.

Assemblies

We hope to develop a regular schedule of assemblies for both elementary and jr./sr. high school. For the jr./sr. high school, most assemblies would be on Wednesdays beginning during the Intervention Period. Afternoon classes would be shortened slightly depending on the assembly. Faculty may be asked to help in lead and or organize the programs.

5 Attendance

The following information about attendance is taken from the student handbook that is given to each LCA family:

Quality education requires regular, systematic instruction and consistent classroom participation. A priority of Lighthouse Christian Academy is to use instructional time productively. Regular attendance is critical if the results of the teaching and learning tasks are to be maximized. Because of the sequential nature of instruction, any unnecessary and/or excessive absence severely impedes the educational process. Therefore, attendance policies have been established with the best interests of students, parents, and LCA in mind.

We are required to report submit a weekly attendance report to the Indiana Department of Education. Attendance will be taken each period in junior/senior high classes. A student must be present for six periods to be counted as a full- day’s attendance. Attendance for two, three, four, or five periods will be counted as a half-day. Attendance for less than two periods will be counted as an absence. Times for elementary students will be based on the junior/senior high schedule. Students must be present for at least six periods to participate in extracurricular activities, athletic events, or practices.

Normal Elementary School Day

The normal school day is from 8:10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for Kindergarten through 6th grade students. Students may go to their classrooms at 8:00 a.m. Students should be picked up by 3:15 p.m. Students remaining at school after 3:15 p.m. will be checked into LCA’s After-Care program with appropriate fees assessed. Elementary students may wait with JH/SH siblings from 3:15 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

Normal Junior High and Senior High School Day

The normal school day is from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. for 7th through 12th grade students. Students may go to their classrooms at 7:45 a.m. and should be in their seats by 8:00 a.m. Students should be picked up by 3:30 p.m. Students who are involved in school-sponsored activities must report to the teacher or coach responsible for the activity immediately. Other students remaining at school after 3:30 p.m. will be checked into LCA’s After-Care program with appropriate fees assessed.

Notification of Absence

A parent must call the office between 7:45 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. to report an absence and must clearly specify the reason for the absence. This procedure must be followed each day that a student is absent. Any absence not reported before the start of the school day, or validated afterwards by a doctor’s note or note of family emergency, is considered an unexcused absence. Any contagious disease must be reported to the office staff as soon as the student’s illness has been diagnosed by a physician.

Partial-Day Absences

If a student arrives after the school day has started, he is to report to the office and sign-in before going to class. All students are expected to be present for six periods on days which they plan to attend or participate in a sports event, class event, or extra-curricular activity after school. Special circumstances will be evaluated by the Principal. In the case of illness, the student is to remain at home.

Early Departure Procedures for Students

A student should not be taken out of his classroom before the end of the school day (Elementary - 3:00 p.m. or Jr./Sr. High - 3:15 p.m.) unless it is for a previously scheduled appointment or due to an illness. This includes exam days. If a student must leave school early, the following procedures must be taken: 6

1. A written note or phone message is to be delivered to the office by the parent specifying the date, time, and reason for the early dismissal. The office will advise teachers of the departure time for the student. 2. When the parent arrives, he should notify the office that he is at the school to pick up the student and should sign-out the student. The office staff will call the student to meet the parent at the office. The parent should wait at the office. 3. If a student leaves school due to an illness or any reason, the parent must sign-out the student. 4. Students will only be released to an authorized parent or guardian.

Excused Absences

Please note the following reasons that qualify as excused absences.

General

1. Personal illness: Student absence for personal illness is considered excused. A doctor’s excuse may be requested. 2. Death within the family: A death within a student’s immediate or extended family will be considered an excused absence. 3. Family emergencies: Cases of family illness, hardship, or unexpected circumstances may be considered an excused absence.

Prior Notice Required: Sign-off forms must be completed 3-DAYS prior to absence

1. Family vacations: At the request of parents, students may be excused for family vacations. Parents should ask the teacher for make-up work before the vacation begins. Since the school calendar allows ample time for vacations in and around the holiday seasons, parents should make every effort to arrange vacations to coincide with the school vacation times. Please make every effort to not take vacations during examination weeks. 2. College days: Each high school junior and senior is allotted 3 days excused absence each year for college visitation. College days are not to be taken during examination weeks. 3. Professional appointments: Professional appointments (e.g., with doctors, dentists, etc.) provide reasons for an excused absence. Whenever possible, these appointments should be made after school hours. If it is absolutely necessary to schedule them during school hours, these appointments should be late in the afternoon. 4. Approved school activities: Students missing classes for athletic contests, music programs, academic events, etc., will be considered excused if such activity is sanctioned by the administration. 5. Miscellaneous: It is possible that occasions other than those listed in this section may arise and necessitate a student’s absence. The administration will make the determination as to whether the absence is excused or unexcused.

Unexcused Absences

All student absences not declared as excused absences will be recorded as unexcused absences. Declaring a student unexcused is an administrative decision, not a student/parent prerogative. Therefore, a student is not necessarily excused because a parent calls.

Examples of unexcused absences include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Not following proper absence declaration procedures 2. Missing class without proper notification 3. Leaving the LCA campus without proper school permission 7 4. Out of dress code 5. Not providing proper notice of absence when prior notice is required 6. In-school suspension 7. Out-of-school suspension 8. Truancy. Truancy is excessive absences as defined by the state or a student who is absent without parent’s consent. Law enforcement may be notified.

Athletes may not play or practice if absence is unexcused for that day.

Make-up Work - Excused Absence

When prior notice is not required, the student will have one (1) calendar day for every school day missed to complete make-up work. Some previously assigned work, such as research papers or special projects, is to be turned in by the due date required or the day the student returns. The student’s parent is responsible for asking for missed assignments. Parent’s of elementary students may call the office and request that homework be collected for his student. Homework will be available in the office at 3:30 p.m. or after. Parent’s of Jr./Sr. High students need to contact their student’s teachers (via email / phone) and by using the homework forum to obtain missed class work.

When prior notice is required because a student will be missing classes for a family vacation or school-sponsored activity, the student must be prepared to take all missed tests and quizzes as well as to turn in all missed work on the day that he returns to class. The student must also be ready for the current day’s assignments.

Pre-arranged excused absence work is due as scheduled with teachers. Research papers or special projects not turned in on the due date will be subject to a 10% grade reduction. Tests, quizzes, and missed work not completed and turned in on the day the student returns to class will also be subject to a 10% grade reduction. An additional 10% grade reduction will be made for each additional day the assignments are late. Teacher’s have the desecration to reschedule make-up work.

Make-up Work - Unexcused Absence

Class work, participation grades, and regular assignments due on the day or days of unexcused absences will receive no credit for each day of class missed. Missed tests and quizzes must be taken on the day the student returns to school, with a reduction of 10% per test and/or quiz. Special assignments (e.g., research paper, special project, etc.) due during the unexcused absence must be turned in the day the student returns to school and will be subject to a 10% grade reduction. If the special assignment is not turned in on the day the student returns, there will be an additional 10% grade reduction for each additional day the assignment is late.

Consequences of Excused Absences

To minimize the number of absences in a semester and to reinforce the concept of responsibility in regards to attendance, the following steps are used to address students’ absences.

1. After five absences in a semester, a letter will be sent to the parents alerting them to the situation. 2. After ten absences in a year, the school will formally contact the parents to remind them of the situation. 3. A student is allowed 15 total absences per year. After fifteen (15) total absences in a year, the student’s credit promotion is in jeopardy and is subject to administrative evaluation. If a student exceeds this number of absences, he/she could face the possibility of repeating the coursework for that year. The Administration will request a conference with the parents and will determine the proper course of action in such cases. Absences due to approved school activities are not counted toward the 15-day limit.

8 Cutting Class

Cutting class or school during any part of the day is defined as any absence from class or scheduled activity during school when it is the expectation of the student’s parent(s) and/or teacher(s) that the student is present. In other words, the student has decided to be absent without prior notification and permission. An absence may be classified as excused or unexcused, but in all cases, the parents should be aware of where their child is during the absence. Law enforcement may be notified. Please see the Discipline section for cutting classes.

Tardiness to School

Students should arrive at school in time to be ready to begin working at 8:00 a.m. for Junior High and Senior High and 8:10 a.m. for Elementary. Tardiness is detrimental to the student, disrespectful of the teacher, and disruptive to the others in the classroom. Late arrivals and early dismissals should be limited and when necessary, be arranged for in advance in the same manner as absences. Students must be present for at least five of the eight periods or the tardy/dismissal will count as a full-day absence. All students arriving late must sign-in at the school office. All students leaving early must sign-out at the school office. Failure to sign-in and out may result in the assignment of an unexcused absence or class cut for the time period in question.

Consequences of Tardiness: Elementary

It is the parents’ responsibility to have elementary students arrive at school on time. If an elementary student is tardy, the following steps will be taken.  On the third occasion, an electronic letter will be sent home notifying parents of the number of times the student was late for school.  After six unexcused late arrivals, will receive a written notification of the problem.  If an elementary student is tardy nine times, a conference will be scheduled with the parents and principal to discuss a solution to the problem.

Consequences of Tardiness: Junior/Senior High

To minimize the occurrence of tardiness and to reinforce the concept of responsibility for timely arrival, the following steps are used to address students’ late arrivals. This includes tardiness to each class.

 On the third occasion, the Administration warns the student and sends home an electronic letter stating the three late arrivals.  After six unexcused late arrivals, and for every third late arrival thereafter, the student will serve a fee- charged detention, 1-hour, after-school detention. 3:20 – 4:20 p.m., parent will be invoiced.

The Administration may choose to make repeated late arrivals or early dismissals a matter of more serious consequence at any time.

Communication

Positive Communication

Positive communication needs to be the hallmark of our school if we are to be in line with Biblical principles and be a pleasant place for all. We will always adhere to the Matthew 18 principle and to the Board-approved Matthew 18 communication procedure when dealing with others and with conflict. The purpose of this communication procedure is to assist our school in working respectfully through all issues for the good of all those involved. Please remember. . .

9  Encourage and pray for one another.  Understand that everyone is here for the same reason and that is to glorify God through our service in this ministry.  When there is a difficulty, go directly and privately only to the individual involved.  Do not gossip or involve other staff, parents, or others. Destructive criticism is to be avoided. Please help LCA and its personnel by loving and protecting them.  If the situation is not resolved, go to your principal and together you can use the Matthew 18 procedure to help resolve the issue.

Email and Mailboxes

Check your email and your mailbox regularly each day.

Teacher to Parent/Student Communication

Teachers will communicate with parents on a regular basis through newsletters or the homework forum as directed by their principal. These newsletters may be written or emailed. At the discretion of the principal, all written or emailed parent communications will go through the principal prior to being sent out to parents.

Consistent use of the website homework page is a positive and necessary tool in the success of our students. As weekly lesson plans are completed, teachers are to update their homework pages.

Direct Email, texting or social networking, (i.e. Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc.) with students is to be avoided. For your protection, copy parents and your principal should an email response be necessary.

Teacher to Principal

Weekly lesson plans are to be submitted to the principal each Friday for the following week and may be submitted by email or hard copy.

Telephones

 School Phones: The phone in your room is for staff use only. Students may not use them at any time. If a student does need to make a call, he can do so from the office with a note indicating your permission.

 Cell Phone – Students: Students may not use a cell phone at any time while in the building during school hours, unless they have permission to come to the office and make the call. They may have them in their backpacks or lockers if the phones are completely turned off and remain out of sight. Cell phones that are visible should be sent down to the office immediately. A parent will be asked to come to the office to retrieve the phone.

 Cell Phone – Staff: The personal cell phones of staff should remain in a desk, purse, or other out-of-sight place with the ringer off at all times. You will be notified of emergency calls. Other calls will be directed to your voice mail. Please see the Electronics Policy.

Office:

The office is a place of business and many activities are usually occurring simultaneously. As you need to communicate with office staff, please contact or see the Receptionist first. When sending students to the office, please have them report to the Receptionist who will handle their request.

Often parents, students, or vendors may be in the office. Please remember confidentiality when conversing about students or school business in this or any other open area. 10 Confidentiality:

All student reports, progress, and records are to be kept strictly confidential between only the staff members involved with the child and the child’s parents. We discuss a student and his need in school with only those staff members who have direct contact with the student. We do not discuss student issues in public.

Devotions

Teachers should begin each day with a short time of devotions including scripture reading and prayer.

Discipline Guidelines

1. All students are to be supervised at all times.

2. Discipline is the training and instruction of individuals in order for them to acquire responsibility, self-control, knowledge, and understanding.

3. The goal for any discipline process is reconciliation and restoration of a relationship (II Cor. 5:17-21).

4. Positive reinforcement should be a common practice for all staff members.

5. Any teacher, full-time staff, or aide has permission to discipline appropriately any child, regardless of grade, if warranted.

6. Yelling at a student is never appropriate.

7. Volunteers should refer discipline difficulties to a teacher or staff member.

8. General school rules are as follows:

Respect God. Respect all adults. Respect all students. Respect yourself. Respect property.

9. The general school-wide discipline policy for discipline infractions is as follows:

A. Verbally warn the student. B. Speak to the student’s teacher, so that he can follow his classroom management plan. C. Document the incident using the Discipline Notice and Record form. D. Notify the principal.

10. Teachers will have an age-appropriate classroom management plan in place for their students. Student discipline is the responsibility of the classroom teacher. The teacher will be with the student throughout the day and needs to be aware of any pertinent situations concerning that student.

11. The principal should be called into discipline situations only after all other avenues have been tried. Students should have respect for their teachers and for other staff members. Going to the principal too soon undermines this respect.

12. The Lord’s name will always be used respectfully and in an appropriate manner.

11 13. The principal should be called in immediately for serious offenses such as fighting, yelling at a staff member, inappropriate conduct, cheating, or stealing.

14. Basic rules for lunchroom discipline – Jr./Sr. High

Students are to remain in their assigned areas during the lunch period with appropriate staff oversight as outlined by the principal. Infractions of behavior or respect will follow the general Jr./Sr. High discipline procedures.

15. Basic rules for lunchroom and recess discipline – Elementary

If a student is not using correct behavior while in the lunchroom or at recess, the following procedures should be followed:

A. Give a verbal warning to the student.

B. Give the student a time out, either by moving him to another table or by having him sit out of recess for a reasonable amount of time due to the offense and with consideration for the age of the student. Complete the Behavior Notice.

C. Have the student walk at recess time for a reasonable amount of time due to the offense and with consideration for the age of the student.

D. Give the student an opportunity to rejoin his peers.

E. Speak to the student’s teacher so that he can follow his classroom management plan.

16. Classroom discipline suggestions:

A. Have only a few rules. Be sure all children understand the rules. Implement the discipline process with compassion.

B. Be consistent and impartial. It should not make any difference which student breaks the rule. What is done should concern us.

C. Do not argue with a student. Enforce the rules.

D. It is better to be strict with new groups at first and then be able to loosen up as the year progresses.

E. Follow through on all stated consequences.

F. Do not be afraid to acknowledge an error. We all make mistakes.

G. There is a difference between being friendly and being familiar. Please observe it.

H. Always speak respectfully to a child about himself, his family, his home, his training, etc.

Dress Code Guidelines - Staff

Since staff members serve as the primary role models in the school, they are expected to use good judgment and to dress modestly and neatly. Our standard of dress should be as high as or higher than what we expect of our students.

12 1. All dress is to be modest, reflect Christian values, and be neat and professional. 2. Clothing that is lewd/vulgar, revealing, tight, low-cut or see-through is not appropriate. 3. All attire will be in good condition with no rips, tears, holes, stains, or missing or broken fasteners. Faded clothing is only permitted if it is manufactured in such a manner. 4. Shorts are not permissible. 5. All shirts, tops, and dresses must have sleeves. 6. Staff members are permitted to wear colored denim pants (green, black, etc., but not blue jeans) if they conform to #1 – 3 above. Females may wear blue denim dresses, jumpers or skirts. 7. Dresses and skirts for females must come to the top of the knee or be longer. 8. Males are not permitted to wear dresses or skirts. 9. Shoes should be professional and activity-appropriate. 10. Staff members are permitted to wear task-appropriate attire that conforms to #1 – 3 above for their specifically assigned duties or field trips. (For example, nice jeans and a T-shirt would be appropriate when a field trip involves tramping through the woods.) If a field trip does not require any special attire, then the regular dress code should be followed. 11. Hair should be of reasonable length and style. 12. All of the above guidelines apply to all school events.

Duty Times

LCA is blessed to have dedicated staff members who are genuinely serving God through this ministry. Please be considerate of activities, planning, and other staff when reporting promptly for your duty times.

It is incumbent upon the faculty to be available after school ends for parent and student meetings. It is recommended that all appointments be scheduled after posted duty times.

All faculty will be assigned to help with lunchroom and recess duty. On days when an evening event is planned, please leave school as soon as your students are gone. Leave when your students are gone on the Friday following the event as well.

Elementary Faculty

7:30 a.m. Be in the building and prepared for morning staff devotions. 8:00 a.m. Students are allowed in the classrooms. 8:10 a.m. Classes begin promptly. Recess/lunch Teachers will be assigned to help with recess and/or lunchroom duty on a rotation basis. 3:00 p.m. Students are dismissed. 3:30 p.m. Teachers may leave the building.

Junior High and Senior High Faculty

7:30 a.m. Be in the building and prepared for morning staff devotions. 7:45 a.m. Students are allowed in the classrooms. 8:00 a.m. Classes begin promptly. 12:10 p.m. Teachers will be assigned to help with recess and/or lunchroom duty on a rotation basis. 3:15 p.m. Students are dismissed. 3:30 p.m. Teachers may leave the building.

13 Emergency Procedures and Closings

Procedures

Fire, tornado, and earthquake drills will be performed periodically to ensure that our children are prepared for emergencies.

Delayed Openings and Early Dismissals

Delayed openings and early dismissals due to inclement weather will be posted on the website at www.lighthouse- christian.com, and announced on multiple television and radio stations. Please specifically watch for “Lighthouse Christian Academy” postings.

 WVNI, Spirit 95 - FM 95.1 Radio, Bloomington  WGCL, AM 1370 ABC Radio Affiliate, Bloomington  WRTV 6 , ABC TV Affiliate, Indianapolis  WISH 8, CBS TV Affiliate, Indianapolis  WTHR 13, NBC TV Affiliate, Indianapolis

LCA will make weather related decisions independent of local school corporations.

Electronics Usage Policy

Electronic devices have become ubiquitous within our culture. Devices that assist the educational goals established by LCA may be used by students, in collaboration with the faculty and Administration. Unless there is a specific, class related purpose for the electronic device, the best practice is to leave electronics at home. Lighthouse Christian Academy is not responsible for loss, damage, or theft of any electronic device brought to campus or any school activity by a student, confiscated or otherwise.

Cell Phones

Any device that may be used to receive communication or to communicate with another person or device shall be considered a cell phone. If it is necessary to contact your child, or for your child to contact his or her parent(s), please coordinate your phone call through the school office. Cell phones are permitted on campus. Students who own the cell phone are responsible for the cell phone and its use. While on campus, and for all class activity, cell phones are to be turned off (not simply muted). Cell phones must be kept in the student’s locker or backpack. Texting, sending or receiving phone calls during the school day is prohibited. Cell phone photography and/or videography are strictly prohibited on campus, and at any school related activity. Cell phones not kept in lockers or book bags will be confiscated, and are subject to search by the Administration and, if deemed necessary, law enforcement. Confiscated cell phones will be returned to the student’s parent(s) at the end of the school day. Students violating the cell phone policy will be subject to established disciplinary procedures.

Music Devices

Any device used to play music, such as CD players, headphones, smart phones, iPods, and other similar devices shall be considered a music device. Music devices are permitted on campus. Students who own the music device are responsible for the device and its use. Music devices must be kept in the student’s locker or backpack. Use of the Music device during the school day, and for all class activity, is prohibited. Music deemed inappropriate and not in keeping with the Vision and Mission of the school is prohibited at all times during the school day and at all school related activities. Confiscated music devices will be returned to the student’s parent(s) at the end of the school day. Students violating the music device policy will be subject to established disciplinary procedures.

14 Personal Computing Devices

Personal computing devices (PCD), such as laptops, net-books, i-pads, e-book readers, etc., may be used in class for class purposes. Students who own the personal computing devices are responsible for their use. Student use of PCD’s is at the discretion of the Principal. A student may use his or her PCD for such things as class notes, assigned research, and class presentation. Activities not directly related to class work may not be performed on a PCD while on campus. Accessing social networks and personal e-mail accounts, and activities not directly related to class activity is strictly prohibited on campus and at all school related activities. Accessing the internet is permitted only if it is directly related to class work. PCD’s not used in accordance with these purposes will be confiscated, and are subject to search by the Administration and, if deemed necessary, law enforcement. Confiscated PCD’s will be returned to the student’s parent(s) at the end of the school day. Students violating the PCD policy will be subject to established disciplinary procedures.

Extra Credit Policy and Procedure For Junior High and Senior High

The following is the Jr./Sr. High extra credit policy and procedure:

The purpose of extra credit is as follows:

 Encourage further learning  Supplement classroom learning  Encourage students to pursue and area of interest

Extra credit is not to do the following:

 Enhance a grade  Remove the personal responsibility of a student  Provide a safety net for laziness or apathetic behavior

The total of extra points earned by a student can improve a 9-weeks’ grade no more than 1/3 of a grade. For example, by earning extra credit points, a student may raise a C- to a C, a B+ to an A-, etc.

Eligibility for extra credit points is as follows:

 Student must meet minimum classroom requirements.  All daily, weekly, and quarterly assignments must be completed and turned in before extra credit is earned.  Noticeable effort and class participation must be observed.

All extra credit work should pertain to the subject matter of the class. Points will not be awarded for services rendered to LCA, a teacher, or fellow students.

Methods of earning extra credit points include but are not limited to the following:

 Out-of-class project or report  In-class presentation  Additional homework or research

Test corrections are not considered extra credit.

15 Extra-Curricular Activities Guidelines

Lighthouse Christian Academy is able to offer a wide variety of after school activities for the enrichment of the students. Working together, these activities enhance the students’ development.

1. After school instructors will follow the school rules and guidelines for student discipline.

2. The instructor is fully responsible for the students once they are placed in his care. He must have all children under his direct supervision at all times.

3. Jr./Sr. High students must be either in an after-school activity or off of the school premises each day by 3:30 p.m.

4. The instructor will sign each student into elementary after-school care when he has completed his activity. If someone comes to pick up the student from the activity, the instructor must follow the check out and identification policies of the school.

5. If a child is in elementary after-school care before an activity is to begin, the instructor must sign the child out of after care and then follow #4 if necessary.

Fieldtrips

Fieldtrips are scheduled to relate to the curriculum and to enrich the subjects being studied by our students. On average, teachers schedule 3 or 4 fieldtrips per year.

In order to have a fieldtrip, please complete the Field Trip Request Form (light blue) available from the office. When completed, give to your principal for review and approval. Please give at least two weeks advance notice of a fieldtrip.

When a fieldtrip has been approved, parents need to be notified. Parents should have two weeks notice as well. Fieldtrips will fall within the following two categories:

 Fieldtrips Within Monroe County: Before school begins, parents will be asked to sign an Annual Field Trip Release for trips within Monroe County. You will not need to ask for permission to take a fieldtrip within our county, but you must still notify parents of the fieldtrip. If a parent chooses that his child not participate in a given fieldtrip, then the child will be placed in another classroom with work to do for the duration of the field trip.

If you plan a fieldtrip within Monroe County that will require parent drivers, there is a form to send home that requests drivers. If you plan a fieldtrip within Monroe County and will use Rural Transit, there is a form to send home giving that information. These forms are available from the principals.

If you plan a fieldtrip within walking distance of LCA, you may notify parents through newsletters or email. Of course, you will need to plan to have adequate supervision of all students.

If you want to use Rural Transit, complete the Rural Transit Request Form (salmon) and turn it into the office two weeks in advance of the fieldtrip.

 Fieldtrips Outside Monroe County: If the destination of your fieldtrip is outside Monroe County, you will need to have the written permission of a parent for each student who goes. There is a form that requests parents to give permission for a child to go and also permission for medical treatment in case of emergency. Rural Transit is not available for most out-of-county fieldtrips.

16 If there is a cost to the fieldtrip, please pick up a Fieldtrip Collection Form and a money envelope from the office. This will help you keep track of the money. This form and the money should be turned into the office every night. Please have money collected 2 or 3 days prior to the trip, so that a check can be cut. Be sure that the amount on the form and the cash/checks in the envelope are equal.

According to Indiana Law (I.C. 9-19-11) , children less than eight (8) years old are required to be properly fastened and restrained according to the child restraint system manufacturer's instructions by a child restraint system. An exception to this rule requires a certification, in writing, from a physician, stating that it would be impractical to require that a child be fastened and restrained by a child restraint system because of: a physical condition, including physical deformity; or a medical condition. Another exception is made for children weighing more than forty (40) pounds. As it is impractical for LCA to weigh children under the age of eight (8) for each field trip, it is our policy to require a physician’s certificate for all children under the age of eight (8) whose parents want an exception to the child restraint system. All children meeting the exception will be properly restrained by a lap and shoulder safety belt system. LCA prohibits children from riding in the front passenger seat where passenger side air bags are installed.

Children between the ages of eight (8) and sixteen (16) must be fastened and restrained according to the child restraint system manufacturer's instructions by a child restraint system; or lap and shoulder safety belt. If all the lap and shoulder safety belts are being used to properly restrain other children who are less than sixteen (16) years of age, then lap belts may be used for children weighing more than forty (40) pounds.

Fieldtrip Guidelines:

 Each child must have a permission form on file or with the teacher before the trip.  Each driver must have a Volunteer Driver Application Form, a copy of his current driver’s license, a copy of his current auto insurance card, and a criminal history background record on file in the office.  There must be a child restraint and/or a seat belt for each child. See the Indiana law effective July 1, 2005, in the paragraph above.  No elementary child should ride in the front seat.  Take the Emergency Information folder and the First Aid Kit with you on each fieldtrip.  If a child has a life-threatening allergy or takes daily medication, epipens, inhalers, and medication must be in the possession of a responsible adult during the fieldtrip.  The teacher is responsible for the class. Parents must abide by the teacher’s wishes.  Children assigned to a parent/chaperone remain with that adult during the entire field trip.  Each child, teacher, parent, and chaperone must wear a nametag.  Children, teachers, and parents are encouraged to wear LCA t-shirts for the trip.

Homework Objectives and Guidelines

Homework Philosophy

Homework is a valuable learning activity performed outside of the classroom that contributes to student achievement and is an essential part of the educational process. It enhances learning by providing opportunities for practice, enrichment, and extension of classroom learning. The assignment of homework is given by the teacher and completed by the student in order to reinforce skills and/or knowledge presented during classroom instruction and is used to assess student achievement. Students at LTHS are expected to be assigned and to complete purposeful homework on a regular and timely basis. By completing homework, students develop mastery by applying what they have learned; acquire effective habits of self-discipline and time management; learn to work independently and in groups; gain a sense of personal responsibility for learning; and develop research skills such as locating, organizing, and condensing information.

Responsibilities 17 Homework is a shared responsibility among the teacher, student and parents to encourage, provide and create an environment conducive to learning.

Teachers will assign homework that:

 is realistic in length, duration and difficulty.  extends and/or reinforces learning.  students have the necessary resources to complete.  is meaningful and purposeful.  corresponds to course content.  targets students’ needs, learning styles, and abilities through a wide variety of activities.  represents a variety of levels of understanding.  allows for flexibility in its completion to accommodate individual circumstances at the teacher's discretion and without sacrificing the integrity of the assignment.  complies with the Academic Ability Levels – Standards and Expectations as outlined in the Academic Program Guide.

Teachers will provide:

 clear explanations about what is expected.  sufficient time for completion of assignments.  feedback by checking and/or grading the assignment.

Teachers must:

 return homework in a timely manner.  never use homework as punishment.  communicate with both students and parents regarding any on-going homework concerns.  post assignments on the homework forum

Students will:  be responsible for completing their assigned homework (including make-up assignments).  take responsibility for their learning by seeking additional help when needed.  exhibit academic honesty when completing homework assignments.  communicate with both teacher and parents regarding any on-going homework concerns.

Parents will:

 monitor homework completion.  provide an environment conducive to studying.  offer guidance, not answers.  communicate with both teacher and student regarding any on-going homework concerns.

18 Intervention Period

The lunch period has been extended to provide a time for intervention. This will be a time for students to get extra help, complete assignments if they are behind, and makeup tests. This time will also be used for meetings and clubs. Students not involved in any of these activities study time, enrichment activities, or extended lunch time.

New Teacher Mentoring and Buddy Program

In order for our first-year teachers to have a successful year, we will provide them a Teacher-Mentor to give practical aid, advice, and encouragement. The mentor and new teacher will meet weekly and keep the principal informed of progress.

For teachers who are new to our staff, we will assign another teacher as a Buddy to answer questions and to help them with school procedures and policies.

Non-Denominational Position

The following Non-Denominational Position was adopted by the LCA Spiritual Life Committee:

The Statement of Faith is fundamental to basic Christian tenets and contains those doctrines to which Lighthouse Christian Academy unreservedly adheres and teaches. It is LCA’s desire to maintain this position. In order to do so in all fairness, it is necessary that we remind faculty, staff, parents, and students that certain areas are left primarily to the teaching of the home and church, including, but not limited to the following:

1. Church government, authority, manner of discipline 2. Time and mode of baptism 3. Predestination or security of the believer 4. Timing of future events 5. Second work of grace – baptism of the Holy Spirit 6. Sinless perfection 7. Gifts of the Spirit 8. Manner of Worship 9. Nature of Biblical history, application of Biblical law, and other doctrines commonly known as dispensationalism

In honoring this desire concerning the purpose and outreach of Lighthouse Christian Academy, there shall be no attempt by student, teacher, or parent to promote these denominational positions. This position is not intended to inhibit the vigorous discussion of denominational distinctives in a Christian and age-appropriate manner. LCA desires to remain united in the salvation and love of Jesus Christ, avoiding the dissension which may be caused by denominational distinctives. Problems and concerns regarding doctrinal and spiritual issues within the school should be referred to the Spiritual Life committee by the Board President or Administrator.

Parent-Interaction Guidelines

When teachers, staff, students, and parents all work together, learning and loving take place in a wonderful way. The following are ways that make these interactions positive and productive:

1. Be positive and proactive. 2. Always remain open minded. 3. Listen to parents. This is very important. Allow parents to talk, explain their points of view, and speak their minds before you calmly respond.

19 4. Give every opportunity for parents to interact. Extend an invitation to parents to visit, join in, and watch any area of interest that relates to their child. 5. Be approachable. 6. Be friendly yet maintain a professional relationship with the parents. 7. Be proactive with parents about any difficulties that their child may be experiencing, whether that difficulty is academic, social, or behavioral. 8. When discussing a student’s difficulty with the parent, always use the “Sandwich Method”: A. Positive comment B. Negative or difficulty C. Positive comment

9. When trying to resolve an issue with a student in class, using the IPI approach with the parents in a conference is very helpful: A. I – Identify the problem. B. P – Plan – Come up with a plan to help the situation. C. I – Implement the plan with the student and parents. 10. All parental notes, e-mails, and phone calls/messages should be responded to within a 24-hour window. This may be a short note or phone call in response to the concern, or simply to inform them of an alternate time to deal with the situation or to schedule a conference. 11. Maintain confidentiality for all students. 12. Keep all written correspondence and e-mails from parents for the entire school year. 13. Make a copy of your written notes and responses to parents if it deals with anything of a negative nature. Give the principal a copy of the original note and a copy of your response with a date on it. This will be placed in the student’s file. 14. Keep a written record of any difficult or negative conversations with a parent including the date and time of the conversation, and the areas discussed. 15. Notify the principal of any difficult or negative interactions with parents. She needs a ‘heads up’ on potentially continuing or explosive situations. 16. Keep the pink copy of the discipline or behavior form and send home the white and yellow copies. Parents should keep the yellow copy and sign and return the white copy. After you have seen the white copy, please give it to the principal. Pledges Students and staff say the following pledges:

American Flag

I pledge allegiance to the flag Of the United States of America And to the Republic for which it stands One nation, under God, indivisible, With liberty and justice for all.

Christian Flag

I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag And to the Savior for whose Kingdom it stands One Savior, crucified, risen, and coming again With life and liberty for all who believe. 20 Bible I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s holy word. I will make it a lamp unto my feet And a light unto my path. I will hide its words in my heart That I might not sin against God.

PowerSchool & PowerTeacher

PowerSchool is a web-based grade book and school information system that serves as a communication tool between parents and the school. PowerTeacher is the teacher’s actual grade book for each class. These are a few of the program’s benefits:

 Real-time grades and attendance  Secure and user friendly grade book  Rapid entry of assignments and scores  Comments about grades or progress for progress reports and report cards  Fully integrated parent portal for parent-teacher communication  Easily accessible student demographic information  Grading formulas and final grade set up to maintain uniformity and integrity  Fully integrated with school information system (SIS); grades and attendance are readily accessible.

Teachers (full-time and part-time) will keep accurate, up-to-date student records through PowerTeacher. PowerTeacher can be accessed from home. Grade books will be set up at the beginning of the school year and records will be stored on the following dates:

End of 1st Quarter October 6, 2011

PowerGrade stored.

No More Changes TBA

End of 2nd Quarter December 16, 2011

PowerGrade stored.

No More Changes TBA

End of 3rd Quarter March 22, 2012

PowerGrade stored.

No More Changes TBA

End of 4th Quarter May 30, 2012

PowerGrade stored & closed TBA

21 On-going training and technical assistance will be provided. PowerTeacher can be accessed at the LCA campus or off site via the LCA Web page http://lighthouse-christian.com/CMS/index.php or directly with this link: http://lcabloomington.powerschool.com/teachers/home.html .

Record Keeping

Attendance:

It is important that you close your classroom door at 8:00 a.m. (Jr./Sr. High) or 8:10 a.m. (Elementary). Teachers will complete an attendance slip each morning, Jr./Sr. High at 8:00 a.m. and Elementary at 8:10 a.m. The slips will be sent to the office by 8:20 a.m. to be entered in the PowerSchool attendance program. All adjustments to a student’s attendance after 8:00 a.m. or 8:10 a.m. will be noted on the student’s record by the office administration.

Note: The Indiana State Department of Education now requires us to do a weekly attendance report and to track period attendance for secondary students. We will discuss details during In-service Week.

Classroom Records:

Teachers (full-time and part-time) will keep accurate, up-to-date records of students’ grades in accordance with the principal’s recommendations.

Student’s Permanent Records:

A student’s permanent record will be kept in the office. These records may only be viewed by the student’s present teacher, the principal, or the student’s parent (while with the teacher or principal). Each principal will direct what should be added to this file each year.

Reports Sent Home:

All accidents, injuries, unusual circumstances, and discipline issues dealing with a child are to be reported that day on the appropriate report form. The original is sent home to be signed and returned by the parent. A copy is kept until the original is returned. When returned, the original is filed in the student’s record for the current school year. The report forms are as follows:

 Accident/Incident Report: This form is to be used to report any physical injury a child received at school or any accident a child may have had. It will also be used to report any unusual circumstance or incident that may have occurred.

 Discipline Notice and Record: This form is to be used to report behavior for which a child was disciplined and the action taken by the school.

Confidentiality: We will always be as confidential as possible with all of our students.

Room Housekeeping Guidelines

In order to create an atmosphere conducive to learning, adhere to safety regulations, allow for reasonable maintenance, and create attractive surroundings, we will all adhere to the following:

1. Teachers are responsible to remove their own trash and place it in the appropriate dumpster. Please do not simply place your trash in the hall or in the teacher’s workroom/kitchen.

22 2. All classrooms should be returned to proper order at the end of each school day. This includes picking up all trash from the floors, returning all furniture to its proper location, clearing off desks and counters, and generally presenting an ordered appearance.

3. Each day all tables/desks will be wiped down and trash taken to the appropriate receptacle. Elementary students should not be sent to the dumpster.

4. Rooms are to be swept daily. A dust mop, dustpan, and whisk broom will be provided for each classroom.

5. It is recommended that food not be kept in the classroom. If food is in the classroom, it should be kept in a sealed, plastic container.

6. Do not use extension cords in the classroom. Surge protectors may be used. Do not connect one surge protector to another surge protector.

7. Lock the door and turn off the lights at the end of the day.

8. Do not raise windows when the air conditioning is on. If the room temperature is uncomfortable, please notify the office.

9. Where applicable, chairs need to be placed on desks on Thursdays for weekly mopping.

10. Hallways are to remain clear of articles on the floor.

11. Bulletin boards in the rooms and in the hallways may be decorated neatly. Please do not attach anything directly to the walls or to the doors.

12. Teachers’ desks should be cleared of all loose papers and piles daily.

13. Coat areas should be kept tidy.

Safety Procedures

Please make sure to become familiar with the safety procedures for our building. The principals will review each of these procedures as necessary. All faculty and staff will be issued a SMART CARD which identifies them as an LCA employee and allows access through the security system to door #1. There will be one fire drill conducted each month and a tornado drill twice per semester.

A complete Safety Manual has been prepared and will be covered during the Faculty In-service week.

Sick/Personal Days

 If a staff member is to be absent for any reason, please give your principal as much advance notice as possible so that your duties are adequately covered and submit a PTO form to your principal.

 Full-time teachers are allotted 7 days (56 hours) of personal time off (PTO) with pay per year.

 If PTO hours are to be used for personal days, please give the principal as much advance notice as possible.

 If PTO hours are to be used for sick days, please consider the following:

. If you are feeling ill in the afternoon or evening, it is always better to inform your principal of your possible absence then. Plan ahead as necessary.

23 . If you are ill in the morning, please call your principal by 6:00 a.m.

. All lesson plans and daily work should be easily accessible for a substitute teacher. Plan ahead for unexpected absences. A prepared substitute folder or box will help in these situations.

. If you are ill more than 3 consecutive days, a written statement from a physician should be returned to the principal to be placed in your file.

 PTO hours that are left at the end of the year will be “saved” in a Sick Bank. These hours may be used for sick days in subsequent years. They may not be used for personal days. Teachers may accumulate up to 80 hours in the Sick Bank. If a teacher accumulates more than 80 hours, the teacher will be paid for the excess hours at a rate determined by the Finance Committee.

Special Needs

Lighthouse Christian Academy values each student and the relationship it shares with their parents. Students with special needs and accommodations may be eligible for admission. Special needs may include but are not limited to IEP’s, Section 504 Plans and medical and physical considerations.

Admission to LCA will be determined by the school’s ability to provide support and assistance in partnership with the student’s parents, and will be considered on a individual basis. Admissions eligibility and placement options will be determined by using the following criteria.

The parent(s)/student will:

1. Provide professional documentation of the student’s diagnosis/conditions. 2. Request for academic accommodations and/or modifications as well as providing scope and degree of same. 3. Request for medical/physical accommodations and provide scope and degree of same. 4. Establish and maintain effective time management skills and study habits. 5. Maintain required academic standards of progress. 6. Comply with standards of appropriate behavior and social interaction. 7. Commit to established communication processes. 8. Participate in annual conference evaluations.

The administration and the parents will meet prior to the beginning of the school year to review the agreed upon accommodations. The accommodations in place are to enable the student to meet or exceed the established behavioral and academic standards set forth by LCA. All accommodations agreed upon will be put in writing and used during the annual conference evaluation.

Staff Meetings

Faculty and staff meetings are conducted throughout the school year. The LCA calendar published to the faculty and staff contains dates and times for faculty and staff development dates and other required events for attendance.

All faculty and staff are required to attend each Wednesday for an All-Staff meeting. This meeting typically begins at 3:30 p.m. and ends by 4:30 p.m. These meetings may be used for professional development, smaller group meetings (elementary, secondary, subject area, etc.), or general school business.

24 Student Programs and School Activities

The LCA staff supports students, families and each other in their academic and spiritual growth by attending student programs and school activities. Mark your calendars now for these events! If you have a conflict with a program, please speak with your principal prior to the event.

Please see the Faculty and Staff Published Calendar!

Supply Monitoring

We are grateful for all of the supplies and books that LCA has been able to acquire for our students. In order to track and maintain these resources, please adhere to the following:

1. Carefully inventory your classroom books and supplies during the first week of school.

2. If you find that you are in need of an item, inform your principal.

3. All textbooks must be accounted for at the end of the year. Make a class tracking system for each book that you distribute to students.

4. Lost or damaged textbooks, workbooks, or LCA classroom library books will be billed to the student/parent. Teachers, please report these cases to the principal.

5. During the school year, if you need a supply or if you need some work done or a repair made, please complete a Work/Supply Request form and send it to the office. Please do not make a verbal request of a staff member.

Teacher Job Description

Each teacher has a copy of the of the Teacher’s Job Description, which is a part of their signed contract and a part of the Faculty In-service Manual.

Teacher & Staff Guidelines

LCA is dedicated to hiring a professional, godly staff. Listed below are some qualities we have seen in you and desire to see nurtured in you.

1. Staff members are committed to a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, regularly attend a Christian church of their choice, and seek to live godly, Christian lives.

2. Staff members genuinely love children and desire to lead them in Biblical truth and in the principles of God’s Word.

3. Staff members minister to the whole child, including his academic, spiritual, and social needs.

4. Staff members plan a program of study that, as much as possible, meets the individual needs, interests, and abilities of the students, challenging each to do his best work.

5. Staff members are careful and circumspect about what books, movies, music, art, and websites are presented in the classroom or recommended to a student. All books, movies, music, art, and websites must be previewed before presenting or recommending. In most cases, elementary students are only to be shown movies with a G rating. God calls us in Phil. 2:8 to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. 25 6. Staff members contribute to the general improvement of the school program.

7. As professionals, staff members work diligently as to the Lord.

8. Staff members grow by reading current professional literature, by continuing their education as needed, and by attending and contributing in a positive way to our staff meetings.

9. Staff members participate in the Parent/Teacher Fellowship activities, in fund raising, and in other outside school activities.

10. Staff members take the extra time to keep parents informed and updated as to their child’s progress.

11. Staff members desire to work here, promote a good atmosphere in the building, and speak positively about our school, administration, board, and education to students, parents, and friends.

Non-Discriminatory Statement

LCA admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded and made available to all students. LCA does not discriminate on the basis race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational and admissions policies, tuition assistance programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

Walk with the Lord

LCA requires that each staff member have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and live in obedience to God’s Word. We encourage each staff member to have a daily quiet time that includes Bible study and prayer. Each staff member should be a member of a biblically based church of his or her choice, attend regularly, and participate in the life of that church.