FVCA Family Handbook
FOX VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Family Handbook
Revised – August 2013
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Contents
A message from the Administrator...... 8 Mission statement...... 10 Goals...... 10 Statement of faith...... 10 School affiliation ...... 10 School history...... 10 School governing body ...... 10 Admission/Registration procedures...... 11 Non-discrimination policy...... 11 Registration/Activity fees ...... 12 Sponsorship ...... 12 Tuition policy...... 12 Family Fundraising Fee ...... 13 School hours...... 13 Arrival and dismissal ...... 14 Arrival...... 14 Dismissal...... 14 Kids’ Station...... 15 Attendance and absences ...... 15 Health issues...... 15 Fox Valley Christian Academy Wellness Policy...... 16 Standards of conduct ...... 17 Schoolwide rules ...... 17 Lunchroom procedures...... 18 Hallway procedures...... 18 Playground procedures ...... 18 Enforcement procedures (Grades K–5) ...... 18 Chronic or severe misbehaviors ...... 19 Harassment/sexual harassment policies...... 19 Definition of harassment ...... 19 Definition of sexual harassment ...... 19 Procedure for investigating a complaint ...... 20 Positive reinforcements ...... 20 Classroom behavior...... 20 Student behavior on buses...... 21 Items to leave at home ...... 21 Cell phones ...... 21 Readmission policy ...... 21 Standards of appearance ...... 21 Jeans/pants/capris/shorts...... 22
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Dresses/skirts...... 22 Shirts/blouses...... 22 Sweatshirts...... 22 Sweat pants/warm-up suits...... 23 Shoes...... 23 Hats...... 23 Personal grooming ...... 23 Hair...... 23 Make-up...... 23 Jewelry ...... 23 Tattoos...... 23 School appearance infractions ...... 23 Communication...... 23 FVCA website...... 23 FVCA Messenger ...... 23 RenWeb ...... 23 Progress reports...... 24 Report cards...... 24 Parent information meetings...... 24 Back-to-School Night...... 24 School-wide Parent/Teacher Conferences ...... 24 Parent-to-parent communication...... 24 Phone calls...... 24 Additional communication...... 25 Policy and procedures for students affected by divorced or separated parents ...... 25 Statement of intention and purpose...... 25 Governing values ...... 25 Policy ...... 25 Procedure...... 25 Conflict resolution ...... 26 Initial resolution procedures...... 27 Guiding principles for resolution...... 27 Legal claims ...... 27 Christian conciliation...... 27 Pets/Animals in the building ...... 28 Recess ...... 28 Lunch...... 28 Connections – A Parent Service Organization...... 28 Student birthdays...... 28 Holiday observances ...... 29 Halloween ...... 29 Thanksgiving ...... 29
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Christmas...... 29 Valentine’s Day ...... 29 Easter...... 29 Classroom visits ...... 29 Emergency/weather-related information ...... 29 Fire drills...... 29 Tornado emergency procedures...... 29 Intruder/hostage drills/bomb threat ...... 30 School cancellation and delays due to weather ...... 30 Cancellations ...... 30 Delays...... 30 Mid-day dismissals...... 30 Media announcements...... 30 Student growth opportunities ...... 30 Spiritual ...... 30 Salvation message ...... 30 Character development...... 30 Bible class ...... 31 Scripture memorization ...... 31 Devotions and chapel ...... 31 Missions...... 31 Pledges recited at school...... 31 Academics...... 31 Curriculum ...... 31 Class content overview ...... 34 Extracurricular activities ...... 35 Academic standards and reporting...... 36 Achievement testing...... 36 Competitions/Exhibitions...... 36 Awards...... 36 Graduation...... 37 Special events ...... 37 Middle School...... 38 Expectations and guidelines ...... 38 Goals...... 38 Instructional team ...... 38 Organizational procedures...... 39 Schedule...... 39 Assignment notebooks...... 39 Homework ...... 39 Study halls...... 39 Hallways...... 39
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Standards of Appearance...... 40 Jeans/pants/capris/shorts ...... 40 Dresses/skirts ...... 40 Shirts/blouses ...... 41 Sweatshirts ...... 41 Sweat pants and warm-up suits ...... 41 Shoes ...... 41 Hats ...... 41 Personal grooming...... 41 Hair...... 41 Make-up...... 41 Jewelry ...... 41 Tattoos...... 41 School appearance infractions...... 41 Standards of conduct...... 42 Harassment/sexual harassment policies...... 42 Discipline Policy ...... 43 Classroom Discipline ...... 43 Out of class...... 44 Tardiness...... 44 Chronic or severe misbehaviors...... 44 Detentions ...... 44 Suspension...... 44 Expulsion ...... 45 Homeroom ...... 45 Special activities...... 45 Field trips...... 45 Outdoor education ...... 45 Extracurricular activities ...... 45 Enrichment Opportunities ...... 46 Awards Ceremony ...... 46 Graduation...... 46 8th grade trip...... 46 Parent-Teacher conferences ...... 46 Middle School communication ...... 46 Progress reports ...... 46 Report cards ...... 46 Teacher contacts ...... 46 Absence policy...... 46 Doctor’s appointments ...... 47 Curriculum guide ...... 48 Required core courses...... 48
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Electives ...... 48 Athletics...... 49 Spiritual goals...... 49 Physical goals ...... 49 Emotional goals...... 49 Social goals...... 49 Athletic Director’s responsibilities ...... 50 Coaches’ responsibilities ...... 50 Athletes’ responsibilities ...... 51 Parents’ responsibilities...... 52 Athletes first, winning second ...... 52 Desired outcomes for athletes ...... 52 10 suggestions for parents of an athlete...... 53 Risks of athletic participation ...... 53 Homeschool participants ...... 53 Character traits ...... 54
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A message from the Administrator
Welcome to Fox Valley Christian Academy (FVCA)! We are glad to have your family as part of our school family. We ask that you carefully review the policies and procedures that are contained within this handbook. It is intended to make clear the school’s expectations with regard to important issues in the life of the school. Should you have any questions or need further clarification, please feel free to contact me.
FVCA is unique in that its staff views their responsibility first and foremost as a calling from God to have a positive impact on the lives of the students. That impact is not only through what is taught but also through modeling what it looks like to be a Christian adult living a life of service to our great God!
At FVCA we invite and encourage parent participation in the education process. Feel free to come and visit. Discuss with us your concerns, your insights, or your questions. We will strive to communicate with you in a meaningful way regarding the progress of your son/daughter.
We trust that you will find us a school in which Christian love and concern are woven into the task of learning. FVCA seeks to be a community which compliments the Christian home and church, seeking to daily unfold God’s will and God’s way for the lives of each of its students. The power of sin resides within each of our hearts. You will find the effects of sin at our school as well. Having God’s Word as our guide providing direction will enable us to teach our students all about confession, forgiveness, and restoration.
In Ephesians 4, Paul encourages the Church members to speak the truth in love so that in all things they would grow up in Christ. May that encouragement be our guide in our relationships as well. Praise God for the awesome responsibility of nurturing young minds and hearts for Him! May God daily equip all of us for this important task.
In Him,
Ron Halma
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Mission statement Fox Valley Christian Academy (FVCA) is a Christ-centered school devoted to training children for life and eternity.
Goals Fox Valley Christian Academy purposes to lead children to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Fox Valley Christian Academy strives to develop in children a Christ-like character and a biblical worldview. Fox Valley Christian Academy emphasizes academic excellence and life skills to develop life-long learners. Fox Valley Christian Academy exists as a ministry of Calvary Bible Church to support the Christian home. Fox Valley Christian Academy desires to develop spiritually, academically, emotionally, and physically strong students.
Statement of faith We believe in the inspiration of the Bible, equally in all parts and without error in its origin. We believe in the one God, eternally existent Father, Son and Holy Spirit, who created man by a direct, immediate act. We believe in the preexistence, incarnation, virgin birth, sinless life, miracles, substitutionary death, bodily resurrection, ascension to heaven, and the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe in the fall of man, the need of regeneration by the operation of the Holy Spirit on the basis of grace alone, and the resurrection of all to life or damnation.
School affiliation Fox Valley Christian Academy has been a continuous member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) since 1981.
School history FVCA is an interdenominational Christian day school offering programs for students in preschool, elementary school (grades K-5) and middle school (grades 6-8). The Academy was established in 1977 as a ministry of Calvary Bible Church. The elementary classrooms and gym on the current campus were constructed in 1989, with the Academy taking occupancy in January of 1990. Additional classrooms and offices were added in 1992. The worship center and Middle School classrooms were completed during the summer of 1999. In 2006, FVCA opened a preschool.
School governing body Fox Valley Christian Academy (FVCA) is supervised by a school board. Members are approved by the Calvary Bible Church Governing Elders and must be members of the church. In all matters the FVCA School Board is subject to the Governing Elders of Calvary Bible Church. School Board meetings are conducted once a month. With advance notice to the Administrator, parents and staff can be scheduled to address concerns to the School Board.
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Admission/Registration procedures The Academy recognizes that it cannot meet the educational needs of all children. The Academy’s academic program is not designed for children with severe learning difficulties or behavioral problems. Preschool 4/5 students must be 4 years of age by September 1st; Kindergarten students must be five and first graders six by September 1st to comply with Wisconsin regulations. Admissions process: 1. Schedule a visit of the Academy. 2. Request an admission packet. 3. Submit the application form, required documents and registration fee. Required documents: a. The non-refundable application/registration fee ($100 Preschool 4/5, $200 for half-day Kindergarten; $300 all other students) b. Copies of applicant’s report cards and academic achievement tests for at least the past year. (Applications will not be considered until achievement tests and report cards have been received.) c. Birth certificate for review by FVCA office staff d. Parent Cooperation Agreement e. If appropriate, a request for sponsorship. A separate application for sponsorship must be completed and submitted directly to the Sponsorship Committee in April. (NOTE: The student must be accepted before the Sponsorship Committee will review the request for sponsorship.) 4. Schedule student readiness test (K-1) or standardized assessment (2-8). 5. Review your student’s test results with the school administrator. 6. Receive notification of the student’s admission status. All incoming students in grades 1-8 are admitted on a 9-week probationary status. The registration fee (minus the testing charge of $75) is refundable only if a class position does not open or the student is declined. Non-discrimination policy Fox Valley Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to students at the school. FVCA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational and admissions policies, sponsorship program, or athletic and other school-administered programs.
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Registration/Activity fees Preschool 4/5 $100.00 Kindergarten, half-day $200.00 Kindergarten, full-day $300.00 Grades 1-8 $300.00 The registration/activity fee is paid yearly. It covers payment for student record processing, testing, membership fees, curriculum costs, and most student activities such as field trips and parties. The registration/activity fee is non-refundable, except when the results of testing or the family interview indicate the student will not be successful at FVCA. The registration/activity fee will be refunded if a class position does not open. In those situations, $75.00 will be withheld to cover testing and processing expenses.
Sponsorship FVCA is blessed to have a sponsorship program. The program is funded by donations made directly to the sponsorship fund. The Sponsorship Committee is able to allocate funds according to these donations. If a family is in need of sponsorship, an application form must be completed and submitted directly to the Sponsorship Committee. Applications are confidential and can be requested from the FVCA office. The sponsorship application must be forwarded to the committee in April. The Sponsorship Committee meets in May to allocate funds according to need. The sponsorship application will not be reviewed until the student has been accepted.
Tuition policy Tuition can be paid yearly or divided into ten installments. A payment booklet is provided for record keeping. A discount is given if tuition is paid in full by July 1. Tuition payments are due on the first day of the month from July through April. Payments are considered late after the tenth of the month, unless special arrangements are made with the school bookkeeper or Administrator. A $25.00 late fee will be assessed on the eleventh of each month. Financial statements will be sent to parents having overdue accounts. If payment is not received by the last day of the month, the matter will be referred to the School Board. Options will be reviewed with the parents before student withdrawal is requested. Please mail or personally deliver tuition payments to the school office. (Children's backpacks are unreliable.) There is a $25.00 charge for any NSF check. Programs not covered by tuition: hot lunch and milk fees, outdoor education, transportation, FIRST Lego League, sports, occasional field trips, and other minor items. All extra charges are paid in advance of receiving the service or item. Should a student leave FVCA after being accepted for admission, if tuition is paid by the month, there will be no refund of tuition or registration fees. If the annual tuition has been paid in full, the tuition refund will be prorated based on the month the student is withdrawn from FVCA.
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Example: 1. If a student withdraws November 20 and pays tuition by the month, then no tuition or registration fees will be refunded. 2. If a student withdraws November 20 and the annual tuition has been paid in full, the tuition will be prorated December-April. No registration fees will be refunded.
Family Fundraising Fee The Family Fundraising Fee of $550 is due in two installments. The first installment of $275 is due January 15 and the second installment of $275 is due May 1. If your earnings exceed $550, you may apply the surplus to registration fees or tuition costs. FVCA is required to issue a 1099 tax form when your earnings exceed $600. You may also donate the excess to sponsorship, library, athletics, computer, the General Fund, or another family account. Family fundraising proceeds are not refundable. There are various opportunities to earn money toward the Family Fundraising Fee. • Fall Fundraiser Packets of fundraising options are provided. Options include Christmas greens, magazines, gift wrap and chocolates. • Entertainment Books Entertainment Books are available each fall in the FVCA office. • Scrip Scrip includes gift cards or gift certificates issued by national and local retailers. The participating merchants discount their cards and certificates. The discount – 2% to 15% or more – is returned to FVCA and credited to each participating family’s annual fundraising fee. You may choose not to be involved in any fundraising efforts and simply pay the $550 Family Fundraising Fee in two $275 installments due January 15th and May 1st.
School hours Preschool 4/5 8:00 AM-11:00 AM Monday, Wednesday, Friday 12:15 PM-3:15 PM Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 AM-12:00 PM Tuesday, Thursday
Kindergarten, half-day 8:15 AM-11:45 AM Monday-Friday
Kindergarten, full-day 8:15 AM-3:15 PM Monday-Friday
Grades 1–8 8:15 AM-3:15 PM Monday–Friday
Office hours 7:45 AM-3:45 PM Monday-Friday
Kids’ Station 3:15 PM-5:30 PM Monday-Friday
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Arrival and dismissal Arrival Students should not arrive before 7:45 AM; staff supervision is not available prior to that time. All students should be dropped off by the Preschool doors when arriving at school before 8:05 AM and walk to the playground or main entrance. Middle School students arriving after 8:05 AM may enter the building through the Middle School wing doors. All students arriving after 8:15 AM must enter the building at the main entrance and report to the FVCA office. Parking is not permitted next to the building because the space is needed for buses and emergency vehicles. Parents must park vehicles in the parking lot if it is necessary to enter the building. If weather permits, students will remain on the playground until 8:05 AM, when they will be allowed to go to their respective classrooms. Preschool students are dismissed at 7:55 AM. Bus students are dropped off at the main entrance of the Academy between 7:55 and 8:10 AM. Dismissal Preschool 4/5: Prior to dismissal time, parents wait in the Preschool entrance hallway; parents sign students out from classroom Kindergarten, half-day: Students exit at the main school entrance Kindergarten, full-day and Grades 1-8: FVCA bus = Central doors Neenah bus = Central doors Carpool line = South hallway Parent pick-up inside = MP hallway Kids’ Station Middle School parent pick-up: Middle School entrance We insist that parents escort students to vehicles. The parking lot is busy and hazardous at dismissal time. Parents must be prompt in picking up children. Children who have not been picked up by 3:30 PM will automatically go into the Kids’ Station program. The charge will be prorated by the quarter-hour at the hourly rate of $4.00 per student. Parents are asked to notify the school office if delays occur so that we can make arrangements for your child to enter Kids’ Station. Please refer to the section on Kids’ Station for more information. At the end of the day parents should not walk through the main hallways. There are numerous instructions to be given, and students can be easily distracted. Parents are always welcome to visit in classrooms, but should make prior arrangements with the teacher. Students are not allowed to use the playground after school unless supervised by a parent on the playground premises. Students who ride bicycles or walk to school are expected to leave the school grounds immediately after dismissal. Your child’s teacher must be aware of your child’s transportation plans after school. By the first day of school, each child must have the transportation and emergency school closing form on file in the office. Your child’s teacher receives a transportation summary report and is informed of the transportation plan. Deviations from the filed transportation plan must be clarified on a daily basis by a note from a parent to the teacher or a call to the office by noon.
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Kids’ Station Kids’ Station provides a place for Academy students in grades K-8 needing regular or occasional after-school care. Students must be pre-registered in order to attend. This program will follow the school calendar year, opening the first day of school. After-school care will be available until 5:30 PM. Kids’ Station is closed when FVCA is closed. The charge for Kids’ Station is $4.00 per hour for each child. The fee is prorated each quarter hour. A registration form is mailed to parents at the beginning of each school year.
Attendance and absences Students are expected to attend all classes and to be punctual . While traffic and weather can be unpredictable, it is important to plan ahead for these eventualities. Late students disturb class routines and make the lunch count difficult. Tardy students also miss out on important instructions and announcements for the day. All K-8 students will need to check into the office if they will not be in the classroom by 8:15 AM. All middle school students will serve a tardy detention for each tardy beginning with their 5th tardy in a given marking period. An announcement from the office will be given to not record tardies if bus(es) are late or if traffic/weather conditions are adverse. When a student is absent, the parent or guardian must notify the office by 8:30 AM on the day of the absence. If calling before 7:45 AM, leave a message on the office voice mail. Music lessons and other appointments should be made after school hours. We strongly discourage family vacations during the school year because they interrupt a student’s academic progress. Students are asked to make up the school work within the time limits set by the teacher. For example, a student missing one week of school might be required to have all work completed one week after his or her return to school. • Advance arrangements should be made with the Administrator and teacher(s) at least one week in advance. • The Administrator and teacher(s) should be notified by the parent in writing. • Teachers will prepare work no sooner than one week in advance of the planned absence. Work will cover a maximum of five days.
Health issues A medical release form, which allows FVCA to secure medical attention in emergency situations, must be on file in the office by the first day of the school year. Parents should consider the following guidelines when determining whether a child is well enough to attend school. • Students with a fever, rash, nausea and/or vomiting, constant cough, or extreme nasal discharge should not be in school. • Students who have had a throat culture because of suspected strep throat should be kept home until the culture results are known. When strep is diagnosed, the student can return to school when he has been on medication for 24 hours AND is feeling well. • Chicken pox, measles, mumps, pertussis, and head lice must be reported to FVCA. Parents are also to notify the public health nurse in their community when their child has one of these conditions. The student’s immunization record must meet the stipulations of the Wisconsin Student Immunization Law. This is completed at the time of registration. If parents choose to waive immunizations, a waiver must be on file in the FVCA office.
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Parents will be notified if a child becomes ill at school. It might be necessary to come to school and take the child home. Emergency numbers should be kept current. Please include all mobile phone numbers on forms. If possible, students should take medications at home; however, FVCA staff will administer medications when necessary. Parents must complete an Over-The-Counter/Prescription Medication Administration form. The Prescription Medication portion of the form requires a physician’s signature (emergency inhalers are the exception). The form is available in the school office. With the exception of inhalers, students should not have medications in their possession. All prescription medicine must be in containers from the pharmacy. Over-the-counter medication must be provided by parents in the original container and be labeled with the student’s name and dosage level.
Fox Valley Christian Academy Wellness Policy Nutrition Education Goals Fox Valley Christian Academy (FVCA) promotes student wellness through good nutrition and regular physical activity as a part of the total learning environment. Healthy lifestyles optimize student performance. FVCA is committed to reinforcing nutrition concepts by all school personnel and is integrated across all areas of the curriculum. FVCA will utilize the services of qualified nutrition professionals as resources for nutrition education (e.g., UW- Green Bay Dietetic Internship program or a registered dietitian). Physical Activity Goals Physical education should include regular instructional physical education, co-curricular activities, and recess. Substituting any one of these components for others will not be encouraged. FVCA will provide supervised gymnasium/outside activity time whenever possible prior to the start of the school day and during lunch periods for all middle school students. Recess is provided for elementary students 2-3 times per day. All students, families and staff will be encouraged to participate in the Presidential Active Lifestyle program for physical fitness and sports. Nutrition Standards for All Foods Available on School Campus During the School Day Drinking water during class time and throughout the day shall be conveniently available for students at all times. Staff selecting inventory for vending machines shall support a healthy school environment by having items that are available for student purchases, ensuring these products contain valuable nutrients without excessive amounts of sugar and fat. Foods and beverages available during the day should include a variety of healthy choices that are appealing to students and served at proper temperatures. Classroom snacks should reinforce the importance of healthy choices.
Goals in the School Meal Program FVCA will offer quality school meals. Parents who choose to send cold lunches are strongly encouraged to send low-fat, nutrient dense foods. Students who bring lunches from home are encouraged to make healthy choices and bring water or 100% juice instead of sweetened drinks. Purchasing low-fat milk will also be an option.
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Staff is encouraged to utilize healthy and nutritious food choices. Staff will seek out good nutrition choices when curriculum and food experiences are planned for the classroom. Foodservice personnel will be ServSafe certified. Goals for Other School-Based Activities Designed to Promote Student Wellness Hand-washing facilities are conveniently available for all students at all times. Access to healthy food choices and 100% juice and water will be made available during after- school care programs. After-school care programs will provide recess or gymnasium time that encourages physical activity daily. Goals for Measurement and Evaluation The Wellness Policy will be updated and reviewed every 3 years or sooner, if indicated by the School Board of FVCA. The Wellness Policy will be published in the FVCA Family Handbook, the FVCA Preschool Handbook, the FVCA Staff Manual, and the FVCA School Board Policy Manual. The Wellness Policy will be introduced at New Parent Orientation yearly. The Wellness Policy will be reviewed at New Teacher Orientation yearly. Students will receive an orientation on the Wellness Policy each year.
Standards of conduct FVCA staff members are committed to loving each student and to providing the best possible atmosphere for academic and spiritual growth. The staff will pray for the students, show caring and understanding in dealing with students, and will confront misbehavior. We believe that students learn best in a safe, distraction-free environment. We know that when parents support the school guidelines and staff enforcement efforts, school discipline problems are minimized. • Students and staff will show respect for others including the school and church staff, FVCA parents and visitors, volunteers, classmates, and the community at large. • Students and staff will show reverence for the Lord, the Bible, and the American and Christian flags. • Students and staff will show respect for, and proper care of, the property of the school, church, students, staff, and the community. • Students and staff will demonstrate orderly, courteous conduct. • Students and staff will honor Christ in word and actions.
Schoolwide rules (These rules apply in all FVCA situations) • Follow instructions the first time they are given • Respect staff members and other students in speech and action • Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself • Stay in assigned areas • Use speech that is Christ-honoring
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Lunchroom procedures • Eat food brought from home or purchased through the hot lunch program • Do not throw food • Stay in seat until dismissed • Clean eating area and put trash in trash receptacle • Walk Carbonated beverages and candy are strongly discouraged as lunch items. Primary grades have a 5-10 minute period of no talking, as determined by the lunchroom supervisors. This no-talking period significantly helps the students to complete their lunches. Students listen to stories read by the lunchroom supervisors or recorded stories or music.
Hallway procedures • Walk • Elementary students observe a no-talking rule in hallways while school is in session. Talking is permitted before and after school. Middle School students may talk in hallways; quiet conversation is expected while in the elementary wing. • Keep the coat rack and locker areas neat Playground procedures • Follow instructions the first time they are given • Use equipment properly • Play games according to official rules • FVCA has a hands-off policy; no hitting, shoving, pushing, wrestling, karate, etc. • Students line up when the whistle blows Staff members instruct students in the proper use of the equipment. Enforcement procedures (Grades K–5) If a student chooses to break a school rule in an "out-of-class" situation (hallway, lunchroom, recess, music, P.E., computer, etc.), the following enforcement procedures will be used: • 1st time: The student will receive a verbal warning. • 2nd time: The student will receive a ticket. If the student receives two tickets in one week, the student will serve a noon-recess detention. Parents will be notified that a detention has been served. Staff members will use professional judgment when issuing tickets, considering the age of the child and the type of misbehavior. Staff members can issue an immediate detention if the infraction is serious. The process starts over each week.
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Chronic or severe misbehaviors Chronic misbehaviors or severe misbehaviors will result in one or more of the following consequences, as determined by FVCA staff: • Additional recess detentions • Student sent to the Administrator • Parent conference at school • Suspension • Expulsion (determined by the Administrator or the School Board) Parents are given the opportunity to appeal the decision. The appeal must be made before the School Board within 7 days of the expulsion notice.
Harassment/sexual harassment policies FVCA is committed to maintaining a learning environment in which all individuals treat each other with dignity and respect and that is free from all forms of intimidation, exploitation, and harassment, including sexual harassment. This school is prepared to take action to prevent and correct any violations of this policy. Anyone who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination or expulsion.
Definition of harassment It is essential that staff and students have a clear understanding of behaviors that fall within the definition of “harassment.” Bullying and harassment of students and staff by students, school officials, faculty, staff, parents, and volunteers who have direct contact with students and staff will not be tolerated at Fox Valley Christian Academy. FVCA prohibits harassment, bullying, or any other victimization based on real or perceived race, sex, creed, color, national origin, disability, physical appearance, and/or personality characteristics. Examples of conduct that are prohibited include: • Verbal, nonverbal, physical, written, or online harassment, bullying, or other victimization that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Repeated verbal, written, or online remarks of a demeaning nature that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Implied or explicit threats concerning one’s grades, achievements, property, etc. that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Demeaning verbal, written, or online jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Unreasonable interference with a student’s performance or creation of an intimidating, offensive, or hostile learning environment
Definition of sexual harassment It is essential that staff and students have a clear understanding of behaviors that fall within the definition of “sexual harassment.” Sexual harassment is engaging in any type of sexually-oriented conduct that would unreasonably interfere with another’s ability to learn or function in the school environment. Examples of conduct that creates such interference are as follows: • Unwanted sexual advances or propositions • Offering academic benefits in exchange for sexual favors
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• Making or threatening reprisals after a negative response to sexual advances • Making sexual gestures, displaying sexually suggestive objects or pictures, cartoons, or posters • Verbal, written, or online conduct such as making or using derogatory comments, epithets, slurs, and “dirty” jokes • Verbal, written, or online abuse of a sexual nature, graphic verbal commentaries about an individual’s body, sexually degrading words used to describe an individual, suggestive or obscene letters, notes, or invitations • Physical conduct such as touching, assaulting, impeding, or blocking movements Employee-student and student-student harassment of all kinds are prohibited. Students who feel that they have been subjected to conduct of a harassing nature or parents/guardians who believe their student has been subjected to harassment are encouraged to promptly report the matter to the Administrator. A complaint can also be made to a teacher with the understanding that all incidents must be reported to the Administrator for review and action. Students who observe conduct of a harassing nature are also encouraged to report the matter to the Administrator or to a teacher. All complaints will be promptly investigated. Every effort will be made to protect the privacy of the parties involved in any complaint. However, the school reserves the right to fully investigate every complaint, and to notify a student’s parent/guardian and appropriate law enforcement officials as the circumstances warrant. It is against the school’s policy to discriminate or retaliate against any person who has filed a complaint concerning harassment or has testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in any investigation proceeding or hearing concerning harassment.
Procedure for investigating a complaint When a complaint is received, the Administrator will direct the investigation. If the investigation confirms the allegations, prompt corrective actions shall be taken. The individual who suffered the harassing conduct will be informed of the corrective action taken. In addition, any employee or student found to be responsible for harassment in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion or termination. The severity of the disciplinary action will be based upon the circumstances of the infraction. The school is cognizant of the gravity of this situation; if an individual has been falsely accused, appropriate action will be taken, up to and including the expulsion or termination of the accuser. Positive reinforcements FVCA staff determine means of giving students positive reinforcement in the classroom and on a school-wide basis throughout the year. Classroom behavior The discipline system utilized in each classroom is as follows: 1st offense = Verbal warning 2nd offense = Teacher-determined consequence; lunch detention, letter of apology 3rd offense = After-school detention, parent call 4th offense = Removed from room, sent to the Administrator, parent call, possible suspension
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Offenses are monitored during day (elementary) or class period (middle school) and reported daily on a classroom spreadsheet. Cumulative misbehaviors in the same day will be tracked and reviewed by the Administrator. Student behavior on buses Students who ride buses are expected to uphold the behavioral standards of Fox Valley Christian Academy. Behavior that is not acceptable at school is not acceptable on the bus. Each bus company or school district issues its own guidelines and contracts. We expect students to follow those guidelines as well as the school’s standards of conduct. The Academy might impose behavioral consequences in addition to those administered by the bus company or school district, up to and including suspension of bus use for a specified period of time, suspension from school, or expulsion. Items to leave at home Some items are not appropriate for school. Any type of knife or firearm (including toys and reproductions) will be immediately confiscated. Parents and law enforcement authorities will be notified as necessary. Other items to leave at home include: matches, inappropriate reading materials, and electronic devices (e.g., Game Boys, CD and MP3 players, etc.). It is recommended that only items relating to school be brought to school. Staff will request that specific items stay at home if a problem develops. Confiscated items are retained in the FVCA office and placed in a locked room. A parent may retrieve the item from the Administrator.
Cell phones The school recognizes our families’ desire to be able to communicate with their children via cell phones. Cell phones may be brought to school but may not be used from the time of arrival in the morning to the end of the school day at 3:15 PM. Middle School students must leave their cell phones in their locker during the school day. If parents need to contact their child during the school day, they should call the school office to do so. Students at school will be allowed to use the office phones for emergency reasons only. If a student turns their cell phone on during the school day or if there is evidence of doing so, that cell phone will be brought to the office for storage. After the first offense, the student may pick up their cell phone at the end of the day. If the offense happens again, the parent will need to pick up the phone.
Readmission policy A student who leaves FVCA by dismissal or voluntary withdrawal due to conflicts with FVCA policy will not be considered for readmission until all issues have been satisfactorily resolved and parents agree to abide by the school’s policies. At that time, regular admission procedures will be followed, with the addition of School Board approval of the readmission.
Standards of appearance Apparel should be modest and Christ-honoring. Appearance standards have been developed with the goal of fostering in students a proper mind set for academic learning and Holy Living. (See I Peter 1:15–16 “...be holy in all your behaviors.”) We believe neat and properly attired students help create an atmosphere which is conducive to study and academic excellence.
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We believe holy living is shunning worldly influences that do not honor Christ. Fads, current fashions, and entertainment-industry promotions need to be evaluated with biblical discernment. (I Thessalonians 5:21–22) We believe modesty is an important component of both holy living and providing a non-distracting learning environment. (I Timothy 2:9) We believe parents are responsible to see that their children meet FVCA’s school appearance standards. These guidelines are applicable to students, parents, staff, and volunteers attending all school events unless waived by school personnel. All clothing: • Must be size-appropriate (not oversized, baggy, tight) • Must be in good repair (clean, no holes or rips, no frayed edges) • Must be modest (adhere to school-length requirements, not overly tight, modestly styled) • Logos on clothing must be Christ-honoring (avoid rock bands, violent characters, disrespectful slogans, etc.) • Teachers and administration reserve the right to determine the appropriateness of graphic tees.
Jeans/pants/capris/shorts All pants must be in good repair (no holes or rips, no frayed edges) and not tight. No low-riding pants or overly large/baggy pants allowed. Undergarments must not be visible at any time. Walking shorts and capris can be worn throughout the year. Shorts must be to the knee or cover 75% of the student’s thigh. We use the width of a hand above the knee to determine an appropriate length. Leggings are allowed but appropriate capris/shorts length must be maintained. Parents and students should be alert to possible changing weather conditions. Students will not be permitted to call home for a change of clothes unless directed to do so by the Administrator.
Dresses/skirts Dresses and skirts must be at the knee. Sun dresses must be worn with either a blouse underneath or a jacket on top. Slits in skirts/dresses are not permitted above the knee. Leggings are allowed but appropriate dress/skirt length must be maintained.
Shirts/blouses Shirts and blouses are to be properly sized and neatly styled. Shirts and blouses must cover the abdomen and back; no low cut necklines. No area of a student’s midsection is to be visible regardless of what the student is doing. If a student bends over and exposes any area of the midsection, it will be considered a violation of the dress code policy. A shirt must be long enough to cover the top of the pants when the arms are raised, but not longer than the top of the thigh when untucked. To ensure modesty, no sleeveless shirts may be worn. All graphic tees must be honoring to Christ and others. Athletic jerseys and tank tops are not allowed.
Sweatshirts Properly-sized, neat sweatshirts can be worn. Logos must be Christ-honoring.
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Sweat pants/warm-up suits Preschool 4/5 through 5th grade: Students can wear neatly styled sweat pants or warm-up (i.e., nylon wind) suits. Middle School students: Sweat pants, athletic wear, and windsuits are not acceptable, except during physical education classes.
Shoes Shoes must be neat, in good repair, safe for outdoor wear and non-distracting. Tennis shoes, non-slip dress shoes, clogs and sandals with heel straps are appropriate attire for preschool and elementary students. Middle school students may wear flip-flops and clogs.
Hats Hats are to be worn outdoors only. Logos must be Christ-honoring.
Personal grooming Hair Extreme hairstyles (unnatural color) are not appropriate. Hair is to be neat, clean, and kept out of the eyes.
Make-up Clear or lightly-tinted lip gloss/chapstick may be worn. Make-up may not be worn by elementary students. Glitter lotions and powders must not be worn to school.
Jewelry Jewelry that is a safety hazard is not permitted (e.g., long, dangling earrings). Body piercing is not acceptable. Jewelry that represents the occult culture or eastern religions is not acceptable.
Tattoos Permanent and non-permanent tattoos are not permitted.
School appearance infractions School appearance infractions that are easily corrected will result in the child being instructed to immediately improve his/her appearance. If the appearance issue cannot be corrected immediately, depending upon the infraction, either a note will be sent home to the parent or the parent might be asked to come to school. Repeated violations will be handled in accordance with FVCA’s school discipline system.
Communication FVCA website The FVCA website, www.fvcaneenah.org , contains extensive information concerning all aspects of Academy operations and is updated monthly.
FVCA Messenger This newsletter is posted on RenWeb and the FVCA website weekly. RenWeb The web-based portal offers parents an opportunity to view daily news, class websites, grade books, and assignments.
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Progress reports Parents can view the progress of their child(ren) on RenWeb at any time. Hard copies of progress reports will not be sent out unless requested. Report cards Report cards are sent home following each of the first three grading periods and are mailed 2-3 weeks after the end of the school year. Parent information meetings These meetings facilitate understanding between parents and faculty. Attendance is important!
Back-to-School Night Back-to-School Night serves an important role in establishing lines of communication between teachers and parents. It is critical that at least one parent attend from each family. Back-to-School Night is held approximately two weeks after school begins.
School-wide Parent/Teacher Conferences Conferences are scheduled following the first and third quarters for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. FVCA urges both parents to attend these conferences.
Parent-to-parent communication Parent-to-parent communication being sent home with any or all students must be submitted to the FVCA office at least 3 days in advance in order to be approved by the Administrator. Parents planning a classroom event or special activity for students should check with room parents first as not to duplicate efforts.
Phone calls FVCA staff will call parents when there are health and other significant concerns during the school day. Students must have written permission from their teacher before being allowed to make a phone call home. Students may not call home when they forget their lunch. We provide milk and crackers and other students share their lunches. Students may not call when they forget their homework. Whenever possible, be sure that your child(ren) is aware of any changes in transportation arrangements before the school day begins. Parents who wish to contact a teacher or other staff member concerning student issues should leave a message on the teacher’s voice mail or email the teacher. The teacher will return the call or respond to the email within 24 hours. Please refrain from calling staff members at their homes, as these calls intrude into the teacher’s family life and also prevent the teacher from getting “emotional space” from school. Please do not attempt to conference with a teacher before or after school without making an appointment. Phone messages regarding transportation changes for that day should be directed through the office. We desire to build good relationships and open communication channels between home and school. We want only the best for your child; teachers need to know they are encouraged and supported by the home. This helps the child to succeed in school and is more rewarding for the parents and teacher. Teachers are asked to be proactive in parent contacts and to return all messages promptly. Parents are asked to find out “the other side of the story” before assuming a scenario. We want to encourage teamwork between home and school, rather than create an adversarial relationship.
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Additional communication See the FVCA section in the Calvary Bible Church newsletter or the “OnTrack” Sunday bulletin.
Policy and procedures for students affected by divorced or separated parents Statement of intention and purpose In recognition of the fact that certain children enrolled at Fox Valley Christian Academy (FVCA) live with parents who find themselves in the position of being divorced or separated from their spouse, and because FVCA desires to, as much as is possible, reduce for enrolled students the often negative consequences seemingly inherent in school logistics for many such families, the FVCA Board and Administration have established the following policy and procedures that must be followed by each parent of students thus affected.
Governing values FVCA, consistent with biblical principles and within the spirit of the policies contained in the Family Handbook, will do all it can to reduce disruption of and interference with the best educational interests of each enrolled student affected by divorce or separation, but specifically as relates to: 1. Information dissemination and parent-school communication; 2. Parental decision making, as impacts the student and FVCA educational concerns; and 3. Physical care and control while the student is coming to, present at, or leaving the FVCA premises. Policy To the greatest extent possible, FVCA will: 1. Afford the same privilege with respect to the three values stated above (information/communication; decision making; and physical care/control) to each parent of a student affected by divorce or separation, unless or until the Administration of FVCA is notified of some legal action or court order lawfully limiting or restricting same in some way; 2. Expect and require that the parent primarily or solely responsible for enrolling the affected student(s) (“enrolling parent”), will inform the Administration of any applicable and controlling legal action or court order so impacting the rights or privileges of one parent over the other; 3. In the absence of any notification as here stated, assume and act upon the belief that neither parent has greater legal right or privilege than the other, as relates to above-stated three values for their student child(ren); 4. In no event permit the Administration, staff or faculty to serve as mediator, negotiator, referee or otherwise choose sides (between parents) or serve as “go between” either to support or discourage the exercise of parental privilege over the other, with respect to the above-mentioned three values.
Procedure In order to fulfill the aims of the policy, above stated, each enrolling parent and joint custodial parent of a student affected by divorce or separation, shall:
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1. If s/he is the enrolling parent , inform FVCA (on the provided form, “Regarding Children of Divorced or Separated Parents”) of the marital status of the couple and how that status is affecting the student and each parents’ rights or privileges thereto; 2. If s/he is the other parent (i.e., not the enrolling parent) and FVCA has not been timely notified of the matters referred to above, inform FVCA (on the provided form, “Regarding Children of Divorced or Separated Parents”) of the marital status of the couple and how that status is affecting the student; 3. If s/he is the enrolling parent, or if s/he is the other parent and the enrolling parent has not done so, timely inform FVCA of any changes in the status, custody or physical placement (i.e., visitation) that may affect a parent’s right or privilege with regard to access to the student or the three values stated herein; 4. If FVCA is not in possession of information (via photocopies of valid court documents) that indicates a legal basis for restricting same, each parent (whether they be the enrolling parent or not) will be afforded the same, identical privilege and access concerning the student, as to: a. School information and communication (including but not limited to mailings, progress and grade reports, notices, parent-teacher conferences and the like); b. Affect FVCA decisions made between Administration-and-parent or teacher-and- parent as regards the student’s best educational interests (including but not limited to homework, attendance, field trips, curriculum, extra helps, grade advancement, course selection, extracurricular activities involvement and the like); and c. The student’s physical person when he or she is coming to (i.e., transported by bus), present at (i.e., withdrawal for appointments or other parent-directed absences) and leaving from (i.e., transported for field trips or by bus or parent pick- up ride home) the Academy. 5. Acknowledge, in writing, receipt of the written Policy and Procedures for Students Affected by Divorced or Separated Parents, and indicate his/her willingness and intent to fully and faithfully abide by same during the entirety of the student’s enrollment at FVCA; 6. Understand that a failure by either parent to faithfully and fully comply with the policies and procedures herein stated may result in suspension or disenrollment of the student during the academic year of non-compliance, or non-enrollment of the student in any succeeding school year. Conflict resolution Fox Valley Christian Academy is a ministry of Calvary Bible Church and follows biblical procedures for conflict resolution as prescribed in the Calvary Bible Church Policy and Procedures Manual. FVCA desires to promote God-honoring cooperative resolution of disputes, divisions, feuds, conflicts, disagreements, and controversies.
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Initial resolution procedures Grievances and misunderstandings: From time to time, relational conflicts arise. The following process is recommended in resolving differences: • Step 1 : In all cases, attempts should be made by the individuals involved to resolve the conflict between them in a positive manner. Parents need to speak with teachers about problems with students before talking to the Administrator or the School Board members. Parents should always address the teacher with concerns directly. It is never appropriate to discuss concerns with other parents before addressing the concern with the teacher or staff member, the Administrator, and the School Board. • Step 2 : Should Step 1 fail, the individuals involved should submit the grievance and address their concerns to the Administrator. • Step 3 : If Step 2 does not bring resolution of the issue, then the FVCA School Board will address the issue and will determine what action is to be taken.
Guiding principles for resolution Six principles form the basis for how Fox Valley Christian Academy will deal with conflicts and offenses: Love, grace, restoration, holiness, unity, and confidentiality. Our goals are to: 1. Be sensitive to those who have been wronged or are innocent, while extending discipline to those who have erred or offended 2. Treat all, including accusers and offenders, with dignity and respect 3. Focus on restoration and healing rather than punishment and exacting revenge 4. Seek to enhance the ethical conduct and personal morality of believers who are being made holy through the indwelling Word 5. Advance unity through reconciliation of differences in belief, attitude and practice 6. Protect the privacy of those involved Legal claims Commitment to biblical justice Fox Valley Christian Academy staff, administration, parents, and students will seek to conduct all aspects of the ministry and business in a Christ-honoring way. Commitment to biblical peacemaking Fox Valley Christian Academy staff, administration, parents, and students will strive to be peacemakers, avoid civil litigation, seek to settle disputes quickly, and make the primary goal in any dispute the restoration of relationships rather than winning of a legal victory. (Matthew 5:9, 25; Proverbs 20:3; 1 Corinthians 6:14; Luke 12:57-58; Matthew 18:15)
Christian conciliation Christian conciliation is a process for reconciling people and resolving disputes out of court in a biblical manner. It encourages cooperation and may involve three steps – individual counseling on how to resolve a dispute personally; submission of the dispute for mediation to promote constructive dialogue and a voluntary settlement of differences; and if mediation isn’t successful, then arbitration where one or more arbitrators will hear the case and render a legally binding decision. Calvary Bible Church and Fox Valley Christian Academy have a conciliation administrator who can be contacted regarding dispute resolution.
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Pets/Animals in the building For health and safety precautions, students and parents may not bring pets and animals into the building, classrooms, or onto the playground. Service animals that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability are the only exceptions.
Recess Grades 1-5 have morning, noon, and afternoon recesses except when physical education class is scheduled. Grades 6-8 have a noon recess time. Students should be prepared to have outdoor recess every day. When temperatures are below zero (with wind-chill considerations), recesses might be moved to the classroom or abbreviated. As much as possible, we attempt to have outdoor recess.
Lunch Students can bring lunches from home or purchase hot lunch. Hot lunch cards can be purchased in increments of 10 or 20 lunches. Cards must be purchased through the school office in advance. A 20-carton milk card can be purchased for those students who bring lunch from home. (Milk is included in the hot lunch meal price.) A parent wishing to take a child out for lunch must notify the teacher and sign the student out in the school office. The student should return to school before the end of lunch recess, and the parent must sign the student back in at the school office. If a child forgets his/her lunch, the lunchroom supervisor will provide crackers and milk.
Connections – A Parent Service Organization Connections is responsible for developing and supporting the parent volunteer force at the Academy and developing and supporting relationships between parents and teachers, between parents, and between families. Connections hosts opportunities for fellowship between these groups. Parent volunteers assist the teachers, staff, and students by contributing abilities, services, and time. Opportunities include, but are not limited to art class helpers, computer class helpers, classroom Ready Readers, fundraising, after-school enrichment classes, hospitality, prayer coffee, teacher appreciation, and the room parent program.
Student birthdays Student birthdays can be recognized during the school day by sending a treat for each student and staff member in the class. Arrangements should be made ahead of time with the classroom teacher. Please check with the teacher regarding student allergies. In order to avoid hurt feelings of someone being "left out" of a birthday celebration that takes place off school property, please send invitations in the mail. If invitations are sent to school to be distributed, they must include all boys in the class if an all-boy party or all girls in the class if an all-girl party. Parents should be sensitive about pick-up arrangements for parties when not everyone in the class has been invited.
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Holiday observances Halloween Halloween is not observed at FVCA. Fall activities will center around harvest celebrations or other appropriate themes. Thanksgiving Thanksgiving is taught from the traditional historical perspective. Thanksgiving provides us with the opportunity to praise God for His goodness to us. Christmas All Christmas activities and teaching focus on Christ’s birth. Santa Claus is not a part of FVCA celebrations. Staff attempt to discreetly defer discussion on the existence of Santa Claus to parents. FVCA observes traditional festivities that honor Christ and make the holiday joyful.
Valentine’s Day On Valentine’s Day students in Preschool 4/5 through 5th grade share valentines with all classmates during a class Valentine’s Day party.
Easter Easter activities center on Christ’s death and resurrection. The Easter Bunny is not included in school celebrations.
Classroom visits Parents are welcome to visit FVCA classrooms. We request that advance arrangements be made with the Administrator and classroom teacher. We ask that there be no visits to Kindergarten the first month of school unless scheduled as a classroom helper. We also ask that 1st-8th grade parents don’t visit the first and last two weeks of school as these are critical periods when teachers cannot focus on visitors. We also ask that parents do not look into or enter their child’s or anyone else’s classroom during the school day, especially at the beginning and end of the day. There are numerous instructions to be given, and students can be easily distracted. If you wish to meet with your child’s teacher, please make an appointment. Due to staff meetings, previously scheduled conferences, and personal schedules, teachers are often not available to speak with parents on a walk-in basis. Scheduling a specific meeting time enables teachers to give you their undivided time and attention.
Emergency/weather-related information Fire drills A practice fire drill is held each month during the school year. At the sound of the fire alarm, students, staff, and any parents or visitors leave the building in an orderly manner and go to a designated location. Tornado emergency procedures Drills are held in which students report to a designated area and practice tornado emergency procedures. Students are not allowed on the buses if a tornado WARNING is in effect at dismissal. We recommend that parents not pick up children until the “all clear” is issued.
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Intruder/hostage drills/bomb threat Intruder, lock-down, and bomb threat procedures are drilled periodically during the school year.
School cancellation and delays due to weather Cancellations FVCA follows the lead of Neenah Joint School District in regard to weather cancellations and delays. If Neenah Joint School District is closed, FVCA is closed. Occasionally, FVCA might decide it is in the best interest of students and families to close when Neenah does not. In such cases, FVCA will be listed by name by the media outlets listed below.
Delays If Neenah delays the start of school, we will do likewise, as the buses run late. Please do not bring your child to school at the normal time. Preschool and morning Kindergarten classes will not meet on days when school starts late. Full-day Kindergarten students will report at the designated start time for school.
Mid-day dismissals Occasionally school must be dismissed during the day because of weather conditions. Parents will be contacted by phone or email.
Media announcements Cancellations and delays will be announced on the following television and radio stations:
WFRV-TV (CBS 5) WEMY-GB (91.5 FM) WBAY-TV (ABC 2) WEMI (91.9 FM) WLUK-TV (Fox 11) WWWX (96.9 FM) WGBA-TV (NBC 26) WPKR (99.5 FM) WHBY (1150 AM) WVBO (103.9 FM) WNAM (1280 AM) WAPL (105.7 FM) WOSH (1490 AM)
Student growth opportunities Spiritual Salvation message The Academy seeks to lead pupils into a personal, saving relationship with Christ as Lord and Savior. The Gospel is presented throughout the Academy’s programs.
Character development The emphasis on Christ-like character development permeates daily life at FVCA. The Bible curriculum, chapels, and instruction deal with the application of biblical principles to everyday situations. It is our goal to build in students a moral foundation with a biblical sense of right and wrong.
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Bible class Bible class is taught from a nondenominational perspective, stressing the salvation message, the essential doctrines of the Christian faith, and character development.
Scripture memorization Students in grades K-5 memorize one verse per week. Kindergarten students memorize verses that correlate with the alphabet. Elementary students who complete the memory work receive a Scripture trophy at the end of the year. Middle school students memorize verses and passages of God’s word in required Bible classes.
Devotions and chapel Following announcements and the pledges, each class begins the day with devotions. Students and teacher pray together and focus their attention on God. Students attend weekly chapel sessions. Special speakers, media presentations, skits, and worship present God’s Word from a nondenominational perspective.
Missions Students are exposed to missions by guest missionaries, classroom study, biographies, and school mission projects.
Pledges recited at school Pledge of Allegiance to the 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.
Pledge of Allegiance to the 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.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Bible I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s Holy Word. It is 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. Academics FVCA students will develop a strong foundation in academic basic skills, become life-long learners, form good study habits, and think creatively and critically, applying God's Word as a criteria for evaluation.
Curriculum FVCA adopts curriculum that will assist the classroom teacher in accomplishing the above academic goals. Christian publishers are selected whenever possible. Elementary Curriculum Kindergarten Bible Getting Started Bible Curriculum (ACSI*) Handwriting Writing with Phonics (A BEKA) Health Various resources
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Math Math K (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Phonics Letters and Sounds K5 (A BEKA); phonics charts and cards
Reading Little Owl books (A BEKA) I Can Read (ACSI) Guided reading series (National Geographic, Wright Group) Science Science K (CSI**); Einstein Project
First Grade Bible God and My World (ACSI) Handwriting Writing with Phonics, Grade 1 (A BEKA) Health Various resources Language Language Arts Grade 1 (MacMillan/McGraw-Hill) Math Math 1 (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
Reading/Literature A BEKA Reading Series (A BEKA) Reading 1-1, Reading 1-2 (Bob Jones) Trade books: Long Way to a New Land, Long Way Westward Guided reading series (National Geographic, Wright Group) Science Science 1 (CSI) Social Studies My America and My World (A BEKA) Spelling Spelling Connections (Zaner-Bloser)
Second Grade Bible God and My Actions (ACSI) Handwriting Transition (Concerned Communications) Health Various resources Language Language Arts Grade 2 (MacMillan/McGraw-Hill) Math Math 2 (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Reading/Literature A BEKA Readers (A BEKA) Guided reading series (National Geographic, Wright Group) If Skies Be Blue; When the Sun Rides High (Bob Jones) Circus; Rainbow Bridge; A Shiny Golden Path (McGraw-Hill) Trade books: Sarah Noble; The Treasure of Pelican Cove; Carolina’s Courage; Wagon Wheels; The Drinking Gourd; The Bears on Hemlock Mountain; The Josefina Story Quilt; The Cricket in Times Square; Frog and Toad are Friends; Charlotte’s Web Science Science 2 (CSI) Social Studies Our America (A BEKA)
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Spelling Spelling Connections (Zaner-Bloser)
Third Grade Bible Growing with God (Positive Action for Christ) Handwriting Cursive C (Concerned Communications) Health Various resources Language Language Arts Grade 3 (MacMillan/McGraw-Hill) Math Math 3 (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Reading/Literature Not So Very Long Ago; Once Upon an Open Book (Bob Jones) Moccasins (McGraw-Hill) Guided reading series (National Geographic, Wright Group) Trade books: The Minstrel in the Tower; Sarah, Plain and Tall; Ramona Quimby, Age 8; Stone Fox; The Chocolate Touch Science Science 3 (CSI) Social Studies Our American Heritage (A BEKA) Spelling Spelling Connections (Zaner-Bloser)
Fourth Grade Bible Building Life Castles (Positive Action for Christ) Handwriting Cursive D (Concerned Communications) Health Various resources Language Language Arts Grade 4 (MacMillan/McGraw-Hill) Math Math 4 (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley) Reading/Literature Guided reading series (National Geographic, Wright Group) Trade books: Little House in the Big Woods; Jackie Robinson and The Year of the Boar; The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe; The Sign of the Beaver; Caddie Woodlawn; Snow Treasures Science Science 4 (CSI) Social Studies Heritage Studies (Bob Jones); The Wisconsin Journey (Gibbs Smith) Spelling Spelling Connections (Zaner-Bloser)
Fifth Grade Bible Teacher-designed curriculum Health Various resources Language Language Arts Grade 5 (MacMillian/McGraw-Hill) Math Math 5 (Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley)
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Reading/Literature National Geographic Reading Expedition (National Geographic) Wright Group Readers (McGraw-Hill) Trade books: From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler; Mahalia Jackson; The Cay; Catherine Called Birdy; The Midwife’s Apprentice; Island of the Blue Dolphins; Bridge to Terabithia; Out of the Dust; Number the Stars; Guide; Tuck Everlasting; My Side of the Mountain; Holes; Sounder; Robin Hood of Sherwood Forest; Riding Freedom; The Talking Earth; Door in the Wall; White Fang; Flying with the Eagle; The Hermit of Mad River; The River; Where the Red Fern Grows Science Science 5 (CSI), Einstein Project Social Studies The History of Our United States (A BEKA) Spelling Spelling Connections (Zaner-Bloser) *ACSI = Association of Christian Schools International **CSI = Christian Schools International The Middle School curriculum is listed in the “Middle School expectations and guidelines” section.
Class content overview Kindergarten : Kindergarten students are taught phonics, and reading and mathematics readiness. Students are generally reading or beginning to read at the conclusion of Kindergarten. The reading program uses the guided reading instructional format and includes fiction and non- fiction reading. Students explore social studies and science through hands-on experiences. Grades 1 and 2 : Fundamentals are stressed, with most time given to phonics, reading, language arts, and mathematics. Math manipulatives are used extensively with the math program. Social studies and science are explored using texts and hands-on experiences. Grades 3 and 4 : Students use their reading skills to become independent learners. Literature studies, mathematics, and language arts are stressed; social studies and science are significant aspects of the academic program. Grade 5 : Student life is active in 5thgrade! Students are being prepared for the independence of Middle School. The curriculum is characterized by in-depth literature studies and challenging social studies and science classes. Teachers especially emphasize study skills and application of biblical principles. Grades 6-8: Students in grades 6-8 experience new responsibilities and independence. In addition to traditional subjects such as English, science, history, and math, Middle School students find increased emphasis on computer, Bible, and the arts. Electives are offered in technology, media, practical skills (e.g., cooking, money management), and the fine arts. Computer education: FVCA has a 25-workstation Apple computer lab as well as computers in the classrooms. Students receive formal technology literacy instruction beginning in Kindergarten. Academy students are given integrated computer instruction in academic subjects across the curriculum. FVCA’s students and staff access the Internet through the use of broadband cable. Students are trained to apply biblical principles to all areas of computer use. Music instruction: FVCA students receive instruction from a music teacher. Students have opportunities for involvement in performances throughout the school year. Elementary students in grades K-5 have two music classes each week. Music theory and appreciation are taught concurrently with choral music experiences.
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Students in 6th grade have general music. Students in grades 6-8 can choose choir as an elective. Spanish instruction: FVCA students in grades K-8 receive instruction from a Spanish teacher. Spanish meets two times per week. Art instruction: Elementary students receive instruction from an art teacher one time per week. Middle School students are given the opportunity to take an elective art class 2 times per week. Physical education: Grades K-8 have two physical education classes each week. Students in grades K-5 do not change clothes for P.E. unless special instructions are given to do so. Students are required to have a separate pair of gym shoes that remain at school. No black-soled shoes, please. Middle School students change for physical education classes. Each Middle School student has a P.E. locker. Outdoor education: Middle school students in grades 6 and 7 attend outdoor education at a regional camp for three days in fall or spring. There is an additional charge for this educational experience. Field trips: Field trips are designed to supplement the academic curriculum. Students participate in four to five field trips each year, including arts performances and visits to community businesses, nature preserves, museums, and government buildings. Permission for school sponsored field trips that occur during the regular school day are granted through signing the Field Trip Permission form at the beginning of the year. Students must wear a modest, one-piece swimsuit for all swimming and water activities. ONLY PARENTS may serve as chaperones—no grandparents or friends of the family, please. Other arrangements should be made for preschool siblings. This enables you to give your full attention to your student and his/her classmates. All students must ride the bus to the field trip destination. Students can be released to their parents if they are not returning to school after the field trip.
Extracurricular activities Students have opportunities for involvement in various activities during the year. Students should be careful to balance these extra responsibilities with classroom academic requirements. Sometimes students and parents must make difficult time-management choices. Activities include: • Soccer leagues (1st-6th grade students) • Basketball (4th-8th grade students) • Volleyball (4th-8th grade girls) • Lego League (4th-8th grade students) • Lego League Junior (Kindergarten-3rd grade students) • Drama Club • Ski Club
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Curriculum enrichment classes are occasionally offered after school hours on a first-come, first- serve basis. Classes can include languages, computer, or sign language. Sessions generally run four to six weeks. These classes might require payment of an extra fee. Forms for registration are distributed to all families well ahead of the beginning of classes. Homework: Homework enriches and reinforces classroom learning; parental assistance might be needed. The amount of time spent on homework will vary from student to student. Homework assignments average 10 minutes per grade level nightly (Grade 1 = 10 minutes, Grade 2 = 20 minutes, etc.). Kindergarten students might have an occasional homework assignment. Middle School homework policies are included in the “Middle School expectations and guidelines” section.
Academic standards and reporting Report cards are issued at the end of each nine-week grading period. Kindergarten and first graders receive non-letter grades; second graders through eighth graders receive letter grades. Parents can view the progress of their child(ren) on RenWeb at any time. Hard copies of progress reports will not be sent out unless requested. Grades 2-8 grading scale 100 = A+ 74-79 = C 94-99 = A 72-73 = C- 92-93 = A- 70-71 = D+ 90-91 = B+ 64-69 = D 84-89 = B 62-63 = D- 82-83 = B- 61 & below = F 80-81 = C+
Achievement testing FVCA students in grades 3-8 will participate in standardized testing on an every-other-year basis. The Terra Nova III test will be used in the spring of the year to measure academic growth. Additional standardized measurements may be taken if deemed necessary.
Competitions/Exhibitions FVCA students have opportunities to participate in various competitions during the year. These competitions can include ACSI Speech Meet and Math Olympics, National Geographic Bee, and other regional and national opportunities.
Awards Achievement certificates and trophies highlight annual award ceremonies. FVCA staff recognizes students for effort or achievement with the following awards:
• Scripture Memory Trophy for K-5th grades
• Speech Meet participation
• Math Olympics participation
• National Geographic Bee
• Outstanding Academic Achievement
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• Outstanding Academic Effort
• Presidential Active Lifestyle Award
• Participation in athletics
• Participation in extracurricular activities Students in grades K-7 are honored at special awards assemblies at the end of the year.
Graduation Eighth-grade graduation takes place during the last week of the school year. Awards are also given as part of the graduation ceremony .
Special events Classroom parties for Christmas and Valentine’s Day Special thematic days to culminate units of study Christmas programs (K-5) Concerts Spirit Week (K-8) School musical (Grades 1-5) ACSI competitions (eligibility varies) End-of-the-year field trips Awards ceremonies Eighth grade graduation and trip
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Middle School
Expectations and guidelines Note: All policies noted elsewhere in this handbook are applicable to middle school students and families. The following section contains additional information for middle school students and families or has been reiterated in this section for clarity and/or emphasis. Fox Valley Christian Academy employs a middle-school philosophy and structure for sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. This format is beneficial for the following reasons: • Teachers on staff have expertise in, and enthusiasm for, teaching specific subject areas. Students receive superior instruction with this format. • Students will be prepared for the transition to high school upon leaving FVCA. • Teachers involved in Middle School instruction work together and meet several times each week for team meetings. Teachers collaborate to meet student needs. • Each student is assigned to a homeroom. The homeroom teacher is responsible for attendance and announcements. Students participate in morning classroom devotions. Teachers and students form connections during the homeroom period. Goals Our goals are to: • Foster spiritual growth by providing an environment that will encourage and motivate students to a deeper relationship with Christ • Reinforce basic academic skills, but also begin to shift students from concrete to more abstract learning concepts (i.e., evaluate, analyze, reflect, create, etc.) • Develop servant leadership skills and provide opportunities to hone these skills • Strengthen organizational skills • Improve self-esteem and peer relationships • Prepare students for high school Instructional team Mrs. Schneider 6th & 7th grade Bible, History, 7th & 8th grade Health Mr. Borski Physical Education Mrs. Meyer English Mr. Hren Art, electives Mrs. Johnson Science Miss Matz Spanish Mrs. Matz Math Miss Schwarzenbart 8th grade Bible, Choir, General Music Mrs. Voland Computer, electives
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Organizational procedures Schedule Each student has a copy of his or her schedule. A copy is also on file in the FVCA office. Schedule determinations are made at the beginning of each semester; changes will be made only at the discretion of the Administrator. Parent permission to change courses is required.
Assignment notebooks Elementary students will receive an assignment notebook containing a daily assignment section, a calendar, and other organizational tools. Seventh and eighth grade students will not be required to have an assignment notebook. All middle school students will need to provide their own. Parents of students who use an assignment notebook should review them each evening. Homework Middle school students can expect homework each evening. The amount of time spent on homework will vary from student to student and depend on such factors as use of class time or use of study hall time. Teachers will attempt to coordinate projects and tests to avoid an overload of work on a given day. Be aware of projects that are assigned several days out as students may leave too much go to the end. Students will be required to complete assignments on time. Late assignments will generally be given a 10% grade reduction for each day late. When a student is absent, homework will generally be expected upon returning to school. Each teacher can arrange with students the schedule for making up missed work. Integrity is a vital characteristic of Christ-like discipleship. Cheating on assigned work will result in a zero for the assignment and a detention at a minimum. Other appropriate consequences will apply and the student will need to work at restoring a relationship of trust. Study halls Students work on homework quietly or bring a book to read when finished with all work. Silence will be observed in all study halls! Effective use of time during study halls greatly reduces the amount of schoolwork a student must complete at home. Hallways Students should not arrive before 7:45 AM. Middle School students should be dropped off by the Preschool doors when arriving at school before 8:05 AM and proceed to the Early Bird location. Students arriving after 8:05 AM may enter the building through the Middle School wing doors. Students arriving after 8:15 AM must enter the building at the main entrance and report to the FVCA office. Food and beverages may not be consumed in the hallways. Jackets and hats should be hung on the racks provided; boots must be placed under the benches. Backpacks can be used to bring books and materials back and forth to school. Books are to be stored in the lockers during the day and backpacks should be stored under or on the benches.
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Standards of Appearance Apparel should be modest and Christ-honoring. Appearance standards have been developed with the goal of fostering in students a proper mind set for academic learning and Holy Living. (See I Peter 1:15–16 “...be holy in all your behaviors.”) We believe neat and properly attired students help create an atmosphere which is conducive to study and academic excellence. We believe holy living is shunning worldly influences that do not honor Christ. Fads, current fashions, and entertainment-industry promotions need to be evaluated with biblical discernment. (I Thessalonians 5:21–22) We believe modesty is an important component of both holy living and providing a non-distracting learning environment. (I Timothy 2:9) We believe parents are responsible to see that their children meet FVCA’s school appearance standards. These guidelines are applicable to students, parents, staff, and volunteers attending all school events unless waived by school personnel. All clothing: • Must be size-appropriate (not oversized, baggy, tight) • Must be in good repair (clean, no holes or rips, no frayed edges) • Must be modest (adhere to school-length requirements, not overly tight, modestly styled) • Logos on clothing must be Christ-honoring (avoid rock bands, violent characters, disrespectful slogans, etc.) • Teachers and administration reserve the right to determine the appropriateness of graphic tees.
Jeans/pants/capris/shorts All pants must be in good repair (no holes or rips, no frayed edges) and not tight. No low-riding pants or overly large/baggy pants allowed. Undergarments must not be visible at any time. Walking shorts and capris can be worn throughout the year. Shorts must be to the knee or cover 75% of the student’s thigh. We use the width of a hand above the knee to determine an appropriate length. Leggings are allowed but appropriate capris/shorts length must be maintained. Parents and students should be alert to possible changing weather conditions. Students will not be permitted to call home for a change of clothes unless directed to do so by the Administrator.
Dresses/skirts Dresses and skirts must be at the knee. Sun dresses must be worn with either a blouse underneath or a jacket on top. Slits in dresses/skirts are not permitted above the knee. Leggings are allowed but appropriate dress/skirt length must be maintained.
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Shirts/blouses Shirts and blouses are to be properly sized and neatly styled. Shirts and blouses need to cover the abdomen and back; no low cut necklines. No area of a student’s midsection is to be visible regardless of what the students is doing. If a student bends over and exposes any area of the midsection, it will be considered a violation of the dress code policy. A shirt must be long enough to cover the top of the pants when the arms are raised, but not longer than the top of the thigh when untucked. To ensure modesty, no sleeveless shirts may be worn. All graphic tees must be honoring to Christ and others. Athletic jerseys and tank tops are not allowed.
Sweatshirts Properly-sized, neat sweatshirts can be worn. Logos must be Christ-honoring.
Sweat pants and warm-up suits Preschool 4/5 through 5th grade: Students can wear neatly styled sweat pants or warm-up (i.e., nylon wind) suits. Yoga pants are not acceptable. Middle School students: Neatly styled sweat pants, athletic shorts, and warm-up (i.e., nylon wind) suits are now acceptable. Yoga pants are not acceptable.
Shoes Shoes must be neat, in good repair, safe for outdoor wear and non-distracting. Tennis shoes, non-slip dress shoes, clogs and sandals with heel straps are appropriate attire for preschool and elementary students. Middle school students may wear flip-flops and clogs.
Hats Hats are to be worn outdoors only. Logos must be Christ-honoring.
Personal grooming Hair Extreme hairstyles (unnatural color) are not appropriate. Hair is to be neat, clean, and kept out of the eyes.
Make-up Clear or lightly-tinted lip gloss/chapstick may be worn. Make-up, appropriately used, may be worn. Glitter lotions and powders must not be worn to school.
Jewelry Jewelry that is a safety hazard is not permitted (e.g., long, dangling earrings). Body piercing is not acceptable. Jewelry that represents the occult culture or eastern religions is not acceptable.
Tattoos Permanent and non-permanent tattoos are not permitted.
School appearance infractions School appearance infractions that are easily corrected will result in the child being instructed to immediately improve his/her appearance. If the appearance issue cannot be corrected immediately, depending upon the infraction, either a note will be sent home to the parent or the parent might be asked to come to school. Repeated violations will be handled in accordance with FVCA’s school discipline system.
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Standards of conduct FVCA staff members are committed to loving each student and to providing the best possible atmosphere for academic and spiritual growth. The staff will pray for the students, show caring and understanding in dealing with students, and will confront misbehavior. We believe that students learn best in a safe, distraction-free environment. We know that when parents support the school guidelines and staff enforcement efforts, school discipline problems are minimized. • Students and staff will show respect for others including the school and church staff, FVCA parents and visitors, volunteers, classmates, and the community at large. • Students and staff will how reverence for the Lord, the Bible, and the American and Christian flags. • Students and staff will show respect for, and the proper care of, the property of the school, church, students, staff, and the community. • Students and staff will demonstrate orderly, courteous conduct. • Students and staff will honor Christ in word and actions.
Harassment/sexual harassment policies FVCA is committed to maintaining a learning environment in which all individuals treat each other with dignity and respect and that is free from all forms of intimidation, exploitation, and harassment, including sexual harassment. This school is prepared to take action to prevent and correct any violations of this policy. Anyone who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination or expulsion. Definition of harassment It is essential that staff and students have a clear understanding of behaviors that fall within the definition of “harassment.” Bullying and harassment of students and staff by students, school officials, faculty, staff, parents, and volunteers who have direct contact with students and staff will not be tolerated at Fox Valley Christian Academy. FVCA prohibits harassment, bullying, or any other victimization based on real or perceived race, sex, creed, color, national origin, disability, physical appearance, and/or personality characteristics. Examples of conduct that are prohibited include: • Verbal, nonverbal, physical, written, or online harassment, bullying, or other victimization that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Repeated verbal, written, or online remarks of a demeaning nature that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Implied or explicit threats concerning one’s grades, achievements, property, etc. that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Demeaning verbal, written, or online jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering • Unreasonable interference with a student’s performance or creation of an intimidating, offensive, or hostile learning environment Definition of sexual harassment It is essential that staff and students have a clear understanding of behaviors that fall within the definition of “sexual harassment.” Sexual harassment is engaging in any type of sexually-oriented conduct that would unreasonably interfere with another’s ability to learn or function in the school environment. Examples of conduct that creates such interference are as follows:
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• Unwanted sexual advances or propositions • Offering academic benefits in exchange for sexual favors • Making or threatening reprisals after a negative response to sexual advances • Making sexual gestures, displaying sexually suggestive objects or pictures, cartoons, or posters • Verbal, written, or online conduct such as making or using derogatory comments, epithets, slurs, and “dirty” jokes • Verbal, written, or online abuse of a sexual nature, graphic verbal commentaries about an individual’s body, sexually degrading words used to describe an individual, suggestive or obscene letters, notes, or invitations • Physical conduct such as touching, assaulting, impeding, or blocking movements Employee-student and student-student harassment of all kinds are prohibited. Students who feel that they have been subjected to conduct of a harassing nature or parents/guardians who believe their student has been subjected to harassment are encouraged to promptly report the matter to the Administrator. A complaint can also be made to a teacher with the understanding that all incidents must be reported to the Administrator for review and action. Students who observe conduct of a harassing nature are also encouraged to report the matter to the Administrator or to a teacher. All complaints will be promptly investigated. Every effort will be made to protect the privacy of the parties involved in any complaint. However, the school reserves the right to fully investigate every complaint, and to notify a student’s parent/guardian and appropriate law enforcement officials as the circumstances warrant. It is against the school’s policy to discriminate or retaliate against any person who has filed a complaint concerning harassment or has testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in any investigation proceeding or hearing concerning harassment. Procedure for investigating a complaint When a complaint is received, the Administrator will direct the investigation. If the investigation confirms the allegations, prompt corrective actions shall be taken. The individual who suffered the harassing conduct will be informed of the corrective action taken. In addition, any employee or student found to be responsible for harassment in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion or termination. The severity of the disciplinary action will be based upon the circumstances of the infraction. The school is cognizant of the gravity of this situation; if an individual has been falsely accused, appropriate action will be taken, up to and including the expulsion or termination of the accuser.
Discipline Policy Classroom Discipline The discipline system utilized in each classroom is as follows: 1st offense = Verbal warning 2nd offense = Teacher-determined consequence; lunch detention, letter of apology 3rd offense = After-school detention, parent call 4th offense = Removed from room, sent to the Administrator, parent call, possible suspension Offenses are monitored during day (elementary) or class period (middle school) and reported
43 FVCA Family Handbook daily on a classroom spreadsheet. Cumulative misbehaviors in the same day will be tracked and reviewed by the Administrator.
Out of class If a student chooses to break a school rule in an “out-of-class” situation (hallway, lunchroom, playground, specialty classes, athletic events, field trips, etc.), the following enforcement procedures will be used: • 1st time: The student will receive a warning. • 2nd time: The student will receive a ticket.
If the student receives two tickets in one week, the student will serve a noon-recess detention. Parents will be notified that a detention has been served. Staff members will use professional judgment when issuing tickets, considering the age of the child and the type of misbehavior. Staff members can issue an immediate detention ticket if the infraction is serious. The process starts over each week.
Tardiness Middle school students are expected to be on time at the beginning of the school day as well as on time for each of their classes. Students will serve a detention for each tardy beginning with the 5th one during a nine-week marking period.
Chronic or severe misbehaviors Chronic misbehaviors or severe misbehaviors will result in one or more of the following consequences, as determined by FVCA staff: • Additional detentions • Student removed from the classroom or activity • Student sent to the Administrator • Parent conference at school • Suspension • Expulsion
Detentions Lunch detentions are served with a teacher. After-school detentions are served with the Administrator. Multiple detentions at any time during the year can result in a suspension. Additional detentions may result in further suspensions or expulsion.
Suspension Suspensions may be issued for one, two, or three days at the discretion of the Administrator with input from teachers and/or other staff members. Parents are notified of a suspension in writing. A written record of the suspension is retained in the student’s cumulative behavioral file. Possession of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, knives, or firearms will result in immediate suspension and may lead to expulsion. Aggressive physical contact with another student or a staff member will result in immediate suspension and may lead to expulsion.
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Expulsion One or more suspensions may result in expulsion. The FVCA Administrator determines whether expulsion is warranted based upon the offense, the student’s behavioral record, willingness of the student and parents to actively follow a behavioral plan, and willingness of the student and parents to seek recommended counseling. Parents are notified of the expulsion in writing. A written record of the expulsion is retained in the student’s cumulative behavioral file. Parents are given the opportunity to appeal the decision. The appeal must be made before the FVCA School Board within 7 days of the date on the expulsion notice. A student who is expelled must wait until the following school year to reapply to FVCA. The FVCA School Board must approve the student for readmission. Homeroom Each homeroom meets in the morning from 8:15-8:30 AM. Announcements from the office are made at the beginning of homeroom. All homeroom meetings include devotions and prayer. Birthday treats can be given out during this period or at lunch in the MP. A treat should be provided for each student and staff member in the homeroom or grade.
Special activities Field trips Outdoor education for 6th and 7th grade and the 8th grade trip provide valuable learning experiences; Middle School classes take additional field trips relevant to curriculum and current events. NOTE: Students must wear a modest, one-piece swimsuit for all swimming and water activities.
Outdoor education Middle School students in 6th and 7th grade participate in an outdoor education experience each year for approximately 3 days. The fee varies from year to year. Students not attending this important curricular experience will be assigned an extensive independent research project to be completed during the period of the outdoor education. NOTE: Students must wear a modest, one- piece swimsuit for all swimming and water activities.
Extracurricular activities Middle School students have opportunities for involvement in various activities during the year. Students should be careful to balance these extra responsibilities with classroom academic requirements. Sometimes students and parents must make difficult time-management choices. Activities include: • Soccer leagues (6th grade students) • Lego League • Basketball (6th-8th grade students) • Worship Team • Volleyball (6th-8th grade girls) • Leadership opportunities • Drama Club • Ski Club • After-school enrichment classes • Group Bible studies
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Enrichment Opportunities Activities are offered after school on-site and off-site. FVCA makes students and parents aware of opportunities in the greater Fox Valley in the Monday Messenger and through flyers and brochures sent home in the student’s home/school communication envelope.
Awards Ceremony The Awards Ceremony for 6th and 7th grade students is held with the intermediate elementary grades at the end of the school year. The 8th grade awards are given out at graduation. Additional awards for the 8th grade class also include Christian Character, Christian Service, Perseverance, Fine Arts, and Sportsmanship.
Graduation A special evening ceremony for the 8th grade class is held at the end of the school year. The ceremony includes awards, graduation certificates, a special speaker, personal information about the graduates, and an overview of the history of the class at FVCA. The 7th grade students and parents traditionally decorate, set-up, serve cake, ice cream, punch, and clean-up after the ceremony.
8th grade trip Before graduation, the 8th grade class generally goes on a 3-day trip. Students raise their own money and help plan the itinerary with parents. The cost varies with the location and activities.
Parent-Teacher conferences Conferences are conducted in the fall and spring. Middle School parents meet with individual teachers to discuss student progress.
Middle School communication Progress reports Parents can view the progress of their child(ren) on RenWeb at any time. Hard copies of progress reports will not be sent out unless requested.
Report cards Middle School students are given a copy of their report cards at the end of each marking period to take home.
Teacher contacts Parents should contact the subject-area teacher with academic concerns; behavioral questions or concerns should be directed to the classroom homeroom teacher. You can leave a voicemail message at school or e-mail the teacher at school. Arrangements for a special conference might be necessary if dealing with difficult issues.
Absence policy Students are expected to attend all classes and to be punctual . While traffic and weather can be unpredictable, it is important to plan ahead for these eventualities. Late students disturb class routines and make the lunch count difficult. Tardy students also miss out on important instructions and announcements for the day. All K-8 students will need to check into the office if they will not be in the classroom by 8:15 AM. All middle school students will serve a tardy detention for each tardy beginning with their 5 th tardy in a given marking period. An announcement from the office will be given to not record tardies if bus(es) are late or if traffic/weather conditions are adverse.
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When a student is absent, the parent or guardian must notify the office by 8:30 AM on the day of the absence. If calling before 7:45 AM, leave a message on the office voice mail. Music lessons and other appointments should be made after school hours. We strongly discourage family vacations during the school year because they interrupt a student’s academic progress. Students are asked to make up the school work within the time limits set by the teacher. • Advance arrangements should be made with the Administrator and teacher(s) one week prior to the absence. • The Administrator and teacher(s) should be notified by the parent in writing. • Teachers will prepare work no sooner than one week in advance of the planned absence. Work will cover a maximum of five days. If a student is absent from school the teachers will work to compile the assignments that are being missed and send them home with a sibling if possible. Parents may come to school to pick up assignments. Calling ahead will help ensure that the work is compiled and ready for pick up.
Doctor’s appointments Please have the student give written notification of doctor’s appointments scheduled during the day to the homeroom teacher; the information is forwarded to the Academy office and will be placed on the daily attendance report for all staff. All students must go to the main office to check out and back in. Pick up must be at the main school entrance. While this may seem inconvenient, we must know where all students are at all times.
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Curriculum guide Required core courses History 6: Journey Across Time: The Early Ages (Glencoe) 7: Exploring Our World (Glencoe) 8: The American Journey (Glencoe) Math 6: McDougal Littell Middle School Math Course 1 or 2 (Houghton Mifflin) 7: McDougal Littell Middle School Math Course 2 or Course 3 (Houghton Mifflin) 8: McDougal Littell Middle School Math Course 3 (Houghton Mifflin) McDougal Algebra Structure and Method Book 1 (Houghton Mifflin) Science 6: Science 6 (CSI*) 7: Life Science (CSI) 8: Earth Science (CSI) Bible 6: Christ and My Life (ACSI)* 7: Daring Deliverers - Judges (ACSI) 8: Faith Search (Faith Studies International) English 6: Elements of Literature – Grade 6 (Holt, Rinehart, and Winston) 7: Elements of Literature – Grade 7 (Holt, Rinehart, and Winston) 8: Elements of Language – Grade 8 (Holt, Rinehart, and Winston) Computer 6-8: Microsoft Office, Internet, Keyboarding, Inspiration Health 8: Total Health: Choices For A Winning Lifestyle (River’s Edge) P.E. 6-8: Meets two times per week. Uniform required. General Music 6: Meets two times per week. Theory/music appreciation. Spanish 7: En Español 1A (McDougall Littell/Houghton Mifflin) 8: En Español 1B (McDougall Littell/Houghton Mifflin)
Electives Elective offerings vary from semester to semester and from year to year. Students and parents are given a description of the electives available. Preferences are indicated and parents sign the form to indicate they are aware of the choices being made.
*CSI = Christian Schools International **ACSI = Association of Christian Schools International Christian Schools International
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Athletics The sports program is designed to complement and enhance the academic and spiritual experience at Fox Valley Christian Academy. The opportunity to participate on a sports team promotes a healthy lifestyle, self-confidence, teamwork, good sportsmanship, commitment to a shared goal, and a sense of fairness. Coaches desire to instill high standards in student players by expecting that they give their best performance and handle themselves in a Christ-honoring manner. Athletic activities at FVCA reflect the school’s Christian philosophy of education. Students who participate should seek to conform their attitudes and behavior to this philosophy. In the fall season students in grades 1-6 can participate in soccer . Teams participate in a league comprised of both public and private schools. Volleyball is available to girls in grades 5-8. Basketball teams are organized for boys and girls in grades 5-8. These teams play during the winter months. An abbreviated season of skill and drill basketball is offered for boys and girls in 4th grade following the regular basketball season. All athletic programs are under direction of the Athletic Director. Most coaches are parent volunteers. The purpose of all athletic programs at FVCA is to provide an opportunity for maximum participation for all students under the guidance of knowledgeable Christian coaches. Our commitment includes the development of young athletes in four main areas: Spiritual goals Our main goal is to build the character qualities of Christ in our athletes. We want to encourage our students to consider themselves as Christ’s ambassadors as they give themselves totally to playing the game while releasing the results to God. “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.” (Colossians 3:17, 23–24) Physical goals We strive to correctly teach fundamental athletic skills, age-appropriate physical conditioning, the development of good health habits, and the avoidance of injuries. Emotional goals Athletes are challenged to control emotions so that they do not damage their Christian witness. Students are encouraged to accept responsibility for their actions. Students gain an understanding of teammates, coaches, the school, and ultimately God.
Social goals Our priority is to provide an atmosphere for students that promotes healthy life skills through participation in athletics. The sports program gives students an opportunity to learn how to cooperate in a competitive context with God’s standards of behavior which includes respect for coaches, referees, and other players. Sportsmanship in the context of Christian witness is a must. To make the appropriate moral judgment at the expense of victory is a test of discipline and self- control providing an opportunity to build character.
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Athletic Director’s responsibilities The Athletic Director is responsible for recruiting coaches, scheduling practices and games, hiring referees, and distributing uniforms and equipment. The Athletic Director will handle all scheduling. His/her responsibility is to keep a balance between academics, home, church, and sports. As part of maintaining this balance: • Coaches are not to switch practices. This causes confusion. It is better to cancel a practice, than to try and switch with another team. • Coaches are not to schedule scrimmages, games, or tournaments. • The Athletic Director will schedule no more than 3 athletic events per week per team (including practices, scrimmages, and games). The exception might be tournaments. The number of practices and the dates are determined by the coach and the Athletic Director. Coaches’ responsibilities Coaches will be consistent and fair to all players. Coaches will help athletes develop to their full potential. Coaches will not “cut” players. FVCA has a “no cut” policy. Each coach will define and communicate to the athlete and his/her parents how playing time is determined for the sport. Playing time might be lost or altered by the coach due to missed practices, poor attitude, poor behavior, or failing to meet academic expectations. Generally, playing time during practice and league play will be roughly equal for all participants except for the “A” teams. Coaches will establish clear and reasonable expectations and communicate the consequences for failing to meet those expectations. The coach will discuss issues regarding an athlete’s behavior with the parent if behavior results in frequent or drastic changes in playing time. Coaches will inform the Athletic Director of any serious behavior issues regarding athletes. Coaches will be an appropriate role model to children and adults. A coach is expected to remain Christ-like during competition. Coaches will serve to be an example of Christian love, morals, and sportsmanship. Coaches will show hospitality and respect to others who are visiting our campus. Coaches should understand the techniques and skills of the sport and be able to effectively communicate those skills to students. Coaches must know the rules of the game intimately. Coaches will be prepared for practice and games. Coaches will understand that each child is unique and special with different levels of physical and emotional maturity. FVCA coaches may not transport team members other than their own children.
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Athletes’ responsibilities Athletes must maintain academic diligence. The Athletic Director and/or the Administrator have the option of suspending a student from athletic participation who misses classroom assignments. A mid-quarter (progress report) or quarter grade of “F” in one or more subjects or a mid-quarter or quarter grade of “D” in two or more subjects shall result in ineligibility to participate in any athletic extracurricular activity for at least two weeks. Students under academic probation may not participate in any practices or games. A student can be reinstated after that time at the discretion of the Athletic Director and/or Administrator if consistent and significant improvement is evident. A student receiving one “D” will undergo academic review by the Athletic Director, Administrator, and teacher(s) to determine whether the student will be allowed to participate in sports. Criteria used to determine eligibility includes academic aptitude and effort put forth by the student in that particular subject as well as other mitigating circumstances that might be present. Athletes at FVCA must maintain a high standard of classroom behavior. The athlete is expected to demonstrate appropriate behavior including respect and courtesy for others, good sportsmanship, and age-appropriate control over their emotions and language. Students who do not meet these expectations will be placed on suspension from the team for a minimum of two weeks. Athletes must attend all practices and games or inform their coach if they are unable to do so. Frequently missed practices or unexcused absences might result in reduced playing time. Athletes are required to attend school the day of a practice or game in order to participate. A 10:00 AM arrival deadline is the rule FVCA follows to constitute sufficient attendance on a daily basis. Athletes are expected to respect and use facilities and equipment properly both home and away. Sports fees, the physical examination card, and the athletic emergency card must be turned in by the first day of practice in order to participate. The only exception is the physical examination card when the appointment is delayed. FVCA does not sanction any organized athletic activity on Sunday. The coach has the right to reduce an athlete’s playing time for failure to adhere to these rules. The coach can suspend a student indefinitely with the approval of the Athletic Director. It is the responsibility of the coach to inform the parent if a student’s playing time is repeatedly or significantly altered. The Athletic Director and/or the Administrator have the option of suspending a student indefinitely in the event of blatant or repeated inappropriate behavior. Use of illegal drugs, alcohol, or tobacco will result in suspension from the team for the remainder of the season. The athlete will make a serious commitment to maintaining a healthy body and a healthy lifestyle, keeping in mind that the body is Christ’s temple. The athlete understands that sports are extra-curricular and may not be used as an excuse for not completing homework or studying for a test.
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Parents’ responsibilities Parents will encourage athletes by attending games and helping when and where they are needed. Parents will arrange for travel to and from practices and games. FVCA coaches may not transport team members other than their own children. Parents will encourage and support coaches by taking concerns directly to the coach in Christian love. Parents will leave the coaching to the coaches. Parents will exercise good judgment on how, where, and when to bring issues to coaches. Parents will make a concerted effort to resolve all concerns and conflicts with the person(s) involved in accordance with principles of Matthew 18. Should a satisfactory resolution not occur, the parent should take concerns to the Athletic Director. Parents will be optimistic, encouraging, and supportive in dealing with their children. Parents will encourage and help their children to learn to the best of their ability the basic skills of their chosen sport. The coach can’t always spend sufficient time during practice to ensure that this will happen. Parents will be prompt in picking up the students after practices and games. Parents will make sure that their children understand responsibilities to their team, coach, and school as outlined in this handbook before they begin practice. Athletes first, winning second Competition is healthy, depending on how we compete and what significance we place on winning. Striving to win is essential to enjoyable competition as long as it is within the rules of the game and in Christian character. Desired outcomes for athletes FVCA desires that students have an opportunity to participate and excel in their chosen sport. FVCA desires that each student has the opportunity to participate at a level commensurate with his/her maturity, ability, and commitment level. FVCA desires that students have Christ-honoring adult leadership and role models. FVCA desires that each student has the opportunity to play as a child and not as an adult. FVCA desires for children to share in the leadership, decision-making, and responsibilities of their chosen sport to the extent their ability allows. FVCA desires for children to participate in a safe and healthy environment. FVCA desires for children to be given the opportunity to receive adequate preparation in their sport. FVCA desires for children to have a fair chance to strive for success. FVCA desires for children to be treated with dignity and respect. FVCA desires for children to have fun while striving to reach their athletic goals.
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10 suggestions for parents of an athlete Be sure that your child knows that—win or lose, scared or heroic—you love him/her, appreciate his/her efforts, and that you are not disappointed in him/her. Reinforce the things your child does correctly rather than criticize those he/she does not. Negative criticism when necessary, is often most effective when you bring to light a positive attribute or deed immediately after the criticism. Choose your words carefully! Try your best to be completely honest about your child’s athletic aptitude, competitive attitude, sportsmanship, and actual skill level. Teach your child to enjoy competition for competition’s sake, remembering that there are lessons to be learned in losing as well as winning. Try not to relive your athletic life or dreams through your child. Try not to create an athletic career to replace the one you never had. Remember, an extraordinarily small number will ever have a college career, much less a professional career. Do not undermine the authority of your child’s coach(es). Discuss your concerns with the coach, but do so in private. Please try not to compare the skill, courage, or attitudes of your child with that of other members of the team. Get to know the coaches so that you can be certain that their philosophies, ethics, attitudes, and knowledge are such that you are comfortable entrusting your child to their authority. The coach has a very difficult task. The job is voluntary and represents a labor of love. Please give coaches all the support and appreciation you possibly can. Remember that children might exaggerate both praise and criticism. Temper your reactions when your child brings home tales of woe or tales of heroics. Make a point of understanding courage and the fact that it is relative. Children must learn: courage is not the absence of fear, but rather, doing something in spite of fear. Risks of athletic participation Students and parents must understand that serious injury can occur during any athletic practice or competition. Soccer injuries include foot, ankle, knee, and head bruises, scrapes, and possible fractures. Volleyball and basketball injuries may include, but are not limited, to the ankle, knee, and the head. Students might need to limit their actions so that they do not endanger themselves, a teammate, opponent, or spectator. Students need to hustle, but stay in control of their bodies.
Homeschool participants Students who are homeschooled will be permitted to participate in FVCA’s extra curricular programs if there are openings. Openings will be determined by the coaches and athletic director and fees for doing so will be set by the administrator and school board.
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Character traits The following list is used by teaching staff when attributing a character trait to students on the end-of-the-year achievement certificate.
Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Accurate Ephesians 5:15 – “Be very careful, Conforming exactly to fact; errorless, then, how you live – not as unwise deviating only slightly or within acceptable but as wise.” limits from a standard.
Alert Hebrews 2:1 – “ We must pay more Vigilantly attentive; watchful: alert to danger; careful attention, therefore, to what mentally responsive and perceptive; quick. we have heard, so that we do not drift away.”
Ambitious Requiring or showing much effort. 2 Peter 3:14 – “So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.”
Appreciative Expressing in words, actions, and thoughts, I Thessalonians 5:18 – “Give thanks value to the actions of God and others for in all circumstances, for this is God’s the ways they have served me. will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Artistic Exhibiting an involvement in or appreciation Deuteronomy 33:11a – “Bless all his of art; showing skill or excellence in skills, O LORD, and be pleased with execution; showing imagination and skill. the work of his hands.”
Attentive Being intent; observant; regarding a Hebrews 2:1 – “ We must pay more situation or person with care. When a careful attention, therefore, to what person is attentive to the words, the we have heard, so that we do not manner, and matter of a speaker at the drift away.” same time. Demonstrating that the person is worthy by giving genuine attention and consideration to God’s Word or a person’s words.
Available Being accessible to others. Scheduling I Corinthians 9:19 – Though I am free priorities to serve others in need. and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.”
Believing Secure belief in God and a trusting 1 Timothy 4:12 – “ Don’t let anyone acceptance of God’s will; confident belief in look down on you because you are the truth. young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity .”
Bold Showing or requiring a fearless daring spirit. Hebrews 4:16 – Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
Careful Attentiveness and cautiousness in avoiding Hebrews 2:1 – “ We must pay more mistakes. careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.”
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Caring To feel interest and concern. I Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Cheerful Full of good spirits; likely to dispel gloom or Proverbs 15:13 – “A happy heart worry. makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.”
Committed To give in trust; to put into the hands or Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your ways to power of another. the LORD; trust in him and he will do this.”
Compassionate Giving of love and sorrow; at least some I Peter 3:8 – “Finally, all of you, live portion of love generally attends the pain or in harmony with one another; be regret, to meet another’s needs without sympathetic, love as brothers, be experiencing anything in return. compassionate and humble.”
Concerned Regarding another with care. Bearing one Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s another’s burdens with tenderness and burdens, and in this way you will respect. fulfill the law of Christ.”
Confident Having trust that whatever I say or do will Philippians 4:13 – “I can do benefit me and others. everything through him who gives me strength.”
Conscientious Sensitive regard for fairness or justice. Proverbs 1:3 – “For acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair.”
Considerate Being thoughtful of others and their feelings. Philippians 2:4 – “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Consistent Being fixed or firm in mind, purpose, I Corinthians 15:58 – “Therefore, my affection, or principle; unshaken; unmoved. dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing Being certain; steady; firm and adherent to move you. Always give yourselves God’s principles. Diligent to purpose or to fully to the work of the Lord, because duties. you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Content Having rest or quietness of mind in the Philippians 4:11 – “I am not saying present condition; satisfaction that holds the this because I am in need, for I have mind in peace. Not having opposition, or learned to be content whatever the further desire. Implying a degree of circumstances.” happiness in all situations because God will provide all our needs.
Cooperative Working with other Christians in harmony. Psalm 133:1 – “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!”
Courageous Realizing God is giving us strength to Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and endure any trial or danger. Being brave; courageous. Do not be afraid or having that quality of mind which enables terrified because of them, for the men to encounter danger and difficulties LORD your God goes with you; he with firmness, boldness, and resolution. will never leave you nor forsake you.” Courage arises from a sense of duty, acts in a uniform manner.
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Creative Being able to perform a necessity or task Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform any from a different point of view. longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Curious Desire to know; inquisitive interest in others’ Philippians 2:4 – “Each of you should concerns. look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Decisive Having the quality of determining a subject Joshua 24:15 – “But if serving the of deliberation or putting an end to a LORD seems undesirable to you, controversy by relying on the perfect will of then choose for yourselves this day God. whom you will serve…But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Deferent Respect and esteem due a superior or an 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – “Now we elder; affected or ingratiating regard for ask you, brothers, to respect those another’s wishes. who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.”
Deliberate Characterized by or resulting from careful Colossians 1:9 – “We have not and thorough consideration, awareness of stopped praying for you and asking the consequences; slow, unhurried, and God to fill you with the knowledge of steady as though allowing time for decision his will through all spiritual wisdom on each individual action involved. and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way.”
Dependable Being worthy of trust, to the point someone I Timothy 6:20 – “Timothy, guard can depend on you. Doing what I said I what has been entrusted to your would do even if it means self-denial. We care. Turn away from godless chatter depend on God for existence; we depend and the opposing ideas of what is on air for respiration; vegetation depends on falsely called knowledge.” heat and moisture; the peace of society depends on good laws and a faithful administration.
Determined Having a firm or fixed purpose, as a I Corinthians 2:2 – “For I resolved to determined man; or manifesting a firm know nothing while I was with you resolution, to accomplish God’s will. except Jesus Christ and him crucified.”
Diligent Not just a trait – a command from God. Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, Steady in application to business; not work at it with all your heart, as careless; constant in effort or exertion to working for the Lord, not for men.” accomplish what is undertaken; industrious; not idle or negligent; applied to persons.
Discerning Having power to discern; capable of seeing, Ezekiel 44:23 – “They are to teach discriminating, knowing, and judging a my people the difference between difficult situation and being able to make an the holy and the common and show accurate judgment. them how to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.”
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Disciplined Control gained by enforcing obedience or 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God did not give order; orderly or prescribed conduct or us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of pattern of behavior. power, of love and of self-discipline.”
Discreet Prudent; wise in avoiding errors or evil and Proverbs 2:11 – “Discretion will in selecting the best means to accomplish a protect you, and understanding will purpose; circumspect; cautious. It is the guard you.” discreet man, not the witty, nor the learned, nor the brave, who guides the conversation, and gives measures to society.
Eager Extremely zealous in performing assigned I Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether duties and in volunteering for more. you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Efficient Causing effects or producing; the efficient Ephesians 5:16 – “Make the most of cause is that which produces; the final every opportunity, because the days cause is that for which it is produced. are evil.” Preparing yourself to accomplish the greatest productiveness.
Encouraging To inspire with courage, spirit, or hope; to Hebrews 10:24 – “And let us spur on; to give help or patronage. consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
Enduring The ability to withstand hardship, adversity, Revelation 2:3 – “You have or stress. persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.”
Enthusiastic To be inspired; strong excitement of feeling. I Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Equitable Being equal in regard to the rights of others; Matthew 7:12 – “So in everything, do distributing equal justice; giving each his to others what you would have them due; being just and impartial according to do to you, for this sums up the Law God’s law. and the Prophets.”
Fair Honest; honorable; mild; opposed to Matthew 7:12 – “So in everything, do insidious and compulsory actions. To be to others what you would have them able to accomplish a thing by looking at do to you, for this sums up the Law everyone’s side. and the Prophets.”
Faith See Believing .
Faithful Firmly adhering to duty; of true fidelity; loyal; 1 Corinthians 4:2 – “Now it is true to allegiance; as a faithful subject. required that those who have been Being constant in the performance of duties given a trust must prove faithful.” or services and attending to commands of authority.
Fearless Facing danger boldly and with 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God did not give determination, for God gave us a spirit of us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power. power, of love and of self-discipline.”
Flexible Setting affections on things above, not on Colossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on earthly things that can be changed by things above, not on earthly things.” others.
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Forgiving Overlooking one another’s faults by means Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each of expressing to them Christ’s love other and forgive whatever (responding as if there were no faults.) grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Fortitudinous Having the strength or firmness of mind or Proverbs 18:24 – “A man of many soul that enables a person to encounter companions may come to ruin, but danger with coolness and courage, or to there is a friend who sticks closer bear pain or adversity without murmuring, than a brother.” depression, or despondency. Fortitude is the basis or source of genuine courage or intrepidity in danger, of patience in suffering, or forbearance under injuries, and of magnanimity in all conditions of life. Having patience to bear continued suffering.
Friendly Having the temper and disposition of a Acts 20:35 – “In everything I did, I friend; kind; favorable; disposed to showed you that by this kind of hard promoting the good of another. work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Generous Characterized by a noble or forebearing Philippians 2:4 – “Each of you should spirit; liberal in giving. look not only to your own interest, but also to the interests of others.”
Gentle Mild; meek; soft; bland; not rough, harsh or 2 Timothy 2:24 – “And the Lord’s severe; as a gentle nature, temper or servant must not quarrel; instead, he disposition; a gentle manner; a gentle must be kind to everyone, able to address; a gentle voice. teach, not resentful.”
Genuine Sincerely and honestly felt or experienced. I Peter 1:7 – “These have come so that your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”
Hardworking See diligent and industrious. Acts 20:35 – “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Helpful To be of use to; one who is in the service of Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, or assists another. work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
Honest Upright; just; fair in dealing with others; free 2 Corinthians 8:21 – “For we are from trickiness and fraud; acting and having taking pains to do what is right, not the disposition to act at all times according only in the eyes of the Lord but also to justice or correct moral principles; applied in the eyes of men.” to persons.
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Honoring Respect and esteem shown to another. Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Hopeful Desire accompanied by expectation of, or Romans 5:5 – “And hope does not belief in, fulfillment. disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.”
Hospitable Offering a pleasant or sustaining Romans 12:13 – “Share with God’s environment; readily receptive. people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
Humble Modest; meek; submissive; opposed to 1 Peter 5:5 – “Young men, in the proud, haughty, arrogant or assuming. In an same way be submissive to those evangelical sense, having a low opinion of who are older. All of you, clothe one’s self; and a deep sense of yourselves with humility toward one unworthiness in the sight of God. another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’”
Independent Not subject to control by others. Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
Industrious Skillful, ingenious; persistently active; Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, constantly, regularly, or habitually occupied; work at it with all your heart, as diligent. working for the Lord, not for men.”
Initiatory Energy or aptitude displayed in initiation of Philippians 3:13-14 – “Brothers, I do action. not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Inquisitive Given to examination or investigation. Jeremiah 17:10 – “I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.”
Insightful The power or act of seeing into a situation; Philippians 1:9-10 – “And this is my seeing intuitively. prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ.”
Integrity See Steadfast.
Intelligent Having or indicating a high or satisfactory Psalm 119:66 – “Teach me degree of intelligence and mental capacity; knowledge and good judgment for I revealing or reflecting good judgment or believe in your commands.” sound thought.
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Inventive Productive imagination; adept or prolific at I Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether producing inventions. you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Joyful Full of joy; very glad; exulting. Ephesians 5:19 – “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord.”
Just Faithful to an original; conforming to a Matthew 7:12 – “So in everything, do standard of correctness; acting or being in to others what you would have them conformity with what is morally upright or do to you, for this sums up the Law good. and the Prophets.”
Kind Disposed to do good to others and to make Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and them happy by granting their requests, compassionate to one another, supplying their wants, or assisting them in forgiving each other, just as in Christ distress; having tenderness or goodness of God forgave you.” nature; benevolent; benign.
Leading To guide the behavior or opinion of; play a Romans 12:6-8 – “We have different principal or guiding role in; direct, an gifts, according to the grace given us. example If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.”
Loving Unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for I John 4:7-8 – “Dear friends, let us the good of another. love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.””
Loyal Faithful to a friend or superior; true to John 15:13 – “Greater love has no plighted faith, duty, or love; not treacherous; one than this, that he lay down his used of subjects to their king, and of life for his friends.” husband, wife, children.
Meek Mild of temper; soft; gentle; not easily Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke provoked or irritated; yielding; given to upon you and learn from me, for I am forbearance under injuries. Appropriately gentle and humble in heart, and you humble, in an evangelical sense; will find rest for your souls.” submissive to the divine will; not proud, self- sufficient or refractory; not peevish and apt to complain.
Merciful Compassionate; tender; disposed to pity Luke 6:36 – “Be merciful, just as your offenders and to forgive their offenses; Father is merciful.” unwilling to punish for injuries; applied appropriately to the Supreme being.
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Obedient Submissive to the restraint or command of Proverbs 13:13 – “He who scorns authority; willing to obey; implies instruction will pay for it, but he who compliance with the demands or requests of respects a command is rewarded.” one in authority.
Observant Taking notice; attentively viewing or Mark 14:38 – “Watch and pray so noticing; as an observant spectator or that you will not fall into temptation. traveler. Obedient; adhering to in practice; The spirit is willing, but the body is with of (i.e., He is very observant of the weak.” rules of his order).
Optimistic Concentrating on the best conditions of any Romans 8:25 – “But if we hope for situation. what we do not yet have, we wait patiently.”
Orderly Tidy, regulated, methodical. Colossians 2:5 – “For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.”
Organized See orderly. Colossians 2:5 – “For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.”
Patient Having the quality of enduring evils without Hebrews 12:1 – “Therefore, since we murmuring or fretfulness; sustaining are surrounded by such a great cloud afflictions of body or mind with fortitude, of witnesses, let us throw off calmness or Christian submission to the everything that hinders and the sin divine will; as a patient person, or a person that so easily entangles, and let us of patient temper. run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
Peaceful Quiet; undisturbed; not in a state of John 16:33 – “I have told you these commotion; mild; calm; as peaceful words; things, so that in me you may have a peaceful temper. peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Persevering Persistence in any thing undertaken; Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become continued pursuit or prosecution of business weary in doing good, for at the or enterprise begun. proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Persistent To remain unchanged or fixed in a specified I Corinthians 15:58 – Therefore, my character, condition, or position. dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Pleasing One that pleases or gratifies; one that 1 Corinthians 10:33 – “Even as I try courts favor by humoring or flattering to please everybody in every way. compliance or a show of obedience. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.”
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Poetic Of, relating to, or characteristic of poets or Psalm 19:14 – “May the words of my poetry; given to writing poetry. mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Polite Marked by an appearance of consideration, Titus 3:1,2 – “Remind the people to tact, deference, or courtesy. be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.”
Prompt Being ready and quick to act as occasion Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become demands; performed readily or immediately. weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Prudent Cautious; circumspect; practically wise; Proverbs 14:15 – “A simple man careful of the consequences of enterprises, believes anything, but a prudent man measures, or actions. gives thought to his steps.”
Punctual Having scrupulous regard to time, Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time appointments, promises or rules; as, to for everything, and a season for attend a meeting punctually; to pay debts or every activity under heaven.” rent punctually; to observe punctually one’s engagements.
Purposeful By design; intentionally; with Psalm 119:2 – “Blessed are they who predetermination. keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart.”
Reliable Dependable. I John 4:16 – “And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is Love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.”
Resourceful Efficient and willing to take upon oneself 1 Thessalonians 4:11 – “Make it your projects that others might overlook. ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you.”
Respectful To view or consider others with a degree of 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – “Now we reverence; to esteem as possessed of ask you, brothers, to respect those worth. who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.”
Responsible Governed by reason; being under the Romans 14:12 – “So then, each of us influence of reason; thinking, speaking, or will give an account of himself to acting rationally or according to the dictates God.” of reason.
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Reverent Worshipful. Hebrews 12:28 – “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptable with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.’”
Secure Confident; not distrustful, having faith in Job 11:18 – “You will be secure, God that He will work all things to His glory. because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
Self-controlled To check; to restrain; to govern ones Proverbs 25:28 – “Like a city whose tongue, deeds, and actions. Having instant walls are broken down is a man who obedience to the Holy Spirit, developed lacks self-control.” through outward discipline.
Self-reliant Having confidence in and exercising one’s Philippians 4:13 – “I can do own powers or judgment. everything through him who gives me strength.”
Sensitive Delicately aware of the attitudes and I Peter 3:8 – “Finally, all of you, live feelings of others. in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.”
Serving Helpful act or acts; aid; conduct that is Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become useful to others weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Sincere Honestly; with real purity of heart; without Joshua 24:14 – “Now fear the LORD simulation or disguise. and serve him with all faithfulness.”
Steadfast Firmly fixed in place; not subject to change; 2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to moral. present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Submissive Cheerfully yielding to the will or power of Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders another; obedient. and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
Tactful Saying and doing the right things with Colossians 4:6 – “Let your concern for other’s feelings. conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Teachable Capable of being taught; apt and willing to 2 Timothy 3:14-15 – “But as for you, learn. continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”
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Trait Word Definition Scripture Reference
Tenderhearted Easily moved to love, pity, or sorrow. Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Thankful Conscious of benefit received ; expressive 2 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – “Be joyful of thanks; well pleased. always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Thorough Carried through to completion; marked by 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is full detail, complete in all respects. God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Thoughtful Given to heedful anticipation of the needs Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and and wants of others. compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Tolerant Sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and practices differing from or conflicting with compassionate to one another, one’s own; the act of allowing something. forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Trustworthy Worthy of confidence; dependable. 2 Corinthians 8:21 – “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.”
Truthful Telling or disposed to tell the truth. Proverbs 12:22 – “The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.”
Virtuous Having or exhibiting virtue; morally Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, brothers, excellent; righteous. whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praise worthy – think about such things.”
Wise Marked by deep understanding, keen Proverbs 19:20 – “Listen to advice discernment, and a capacity for sound and accept instruction, and in the judgment. end you will be wise.”
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