ELEMENTARY FAMILY HANDBOOK
Crucial Elements of
Parent-School Cooperation
The Home
The Church
The School
The Savior
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher/School
Problems
Parent-School Meetings
Parent Organizations
Non-Discriminatory Policy
Readmission
K4/K5 Programs
Elementary (Grades 1-5)
Report Cards
Special Programs Department
Academic Reports / Testing Programs
Achievement Testing
Remedial/Diagnostic Tests
Report Cards
Progress Reports
Promotion
Policies
Attendance
Honor Rolls
Homework
Late Work
Summer School
Academic Dismissal
Individual Help/Tutoring
Physical Education
Participation
and Non-Participation
Piano Lessons
Band
Chorus
All-Day Absence
Pre-arranged Absences
15-Day Rule
Partial Day Absence
Entering School During the
Day
Excused/Unexcused
Leaving School During the
Day
Field Trips
Returning to School After Absence
Make-up Work
Tardy
After School Supervision
Lunch Program
Insurance Coverage
Campus Visits (Adults)
Student Visitors
Policy on Disabilities
Medical Information Cards
Transcript Policy
Change of Residence
Withdrawal from School
Textbooks
Disciplinary Procedures at
LCS
School Computer
Usage
Implied Consent
Social Activities,
Entertainment
Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco
Student Drug Testing
Harassment /Bullying
Sexual Morality
Arrest and/or Conviction of
a Crime
Cheating
Dangerous Weapons/Items
Distractible Items
Chewing Gum
Inappropriate Reading
Material
Contact between Students
Elevator Usage
Transportation to School
Activities
Bus Guidelines
Dress After School and At
Extra Curricular Activities
Cellular Phones/Wireless
Communication Devices
Pay Telephones
Note
to Parents
Dress
Code Enforcement
Welcome to the LCS family! You have made an important decision for
your childÕs education and we are happy to be a part of that decision.
Lakeland Christian School was founded in 1954 by a
group of Christian businessmen who were convinced of the need for a
Bible-centered educational program.
The Board of Directors, then as now, focused on three crucial elements
for the school: one, that all subjects must be taught in conformity to the
standards and principles of the Bible; two, that every teacher must be a
born-again Christian with an on-going, mature walk with Christ; and three, that
the academic training provided by the school would be of a high quality.
The purpose of the school is to come alongside the
home and church and assist in teaching young people to think and behave in a
Christian manner. This approach
dictates a high level of expectation in every area of the schoolÕs program.
The school is very supportive of parents and
realizes that in the area of character, they are the major instructors. In order for the school to do its job
well, we select families that have the same goals for their children as the
school. In that way we can be
mutually supportive and hence effective.
We consider the supervision of your child and your involvement with the
school as essential ingredients in his/her success.
We look forward to a close and happy relationship
as we assist you in Òtraining up a child in the way he should goÓ. (Proverbs 22:6)
Crucial Elements of
Parent-School Cooperation
In order to help and guide your child, the school
has set some specific expectations of its parent community. Listed below are some of the most
important of these expectations:
á
That my child needs a strong Bible-centered home. Deuteronomy 6:7
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That our family is to be consistent in our attendance and involvement
with a Bible-preaching and teaching church. Hebrews 10:23-25
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That I am responsible for the education of my child. I will commit my child, including his
education, to the Lord. I will
faithfully pray for my childÕs teachers that they may be effective in teaching
him the whole truth. Ephesians 6:4
á
That I am expected to pay my tuition on time and, when possible,
cheerfully give to the expansion of the school and its program. II Corinthians 9:7
á
That I am expected to express my support for the school, its staff,
faculty, and administration, and I will withdraw from the school family rather
than spread criticism or be divisive.
Psalm 133:1
á
That if I have a problem with the school I will go directly to the staff
member involved and try to solve it, following the principles set forth in
Matthew 18 (see page 4).
á
That my child will be disciplined in accordance with Biblical methods,
and should his attitude remain uncooperative, the privilege of attending
Lakeland Christian School may be withdrawn. Proverbs 22:6
á
That if my child has a disability for which an accommodation is
necessary, it is my obligation to notify the school of the disability when
making application for enrollment.
I am expected to cooperate in the schoolÕs processes to confirm the
nature of the disability, the limitations it imposes, and the range of
appropriate accommodations.
TO STUDENTS:
Welcome to
Lakeland Christian! We are glad
that you are a part of the LCS student body. We want you to enjoy your education here. The school takes its responsibilities
to you very seriously and expects you to take your responsibilities as a
student seriously.
The
faculty members love you and are willing to give of their time and talents to
help you. They also love you enough
to discipline you. Each faculty
member has a personal walk with Jesus Christ and desires that this relationship
be evident in his or her teaching.
If
you have a need, whether spiritual, academic, or social, any faculty member
will be happy to try and be of help to you.
Your
membership in the student body entitles you to many privileges. Organizations, music groups, and
athletic teams are here for your involvement. You are important to us and we want you to experience
spiritual, academic, and social growth while you are here.
Your
major responsibility to the school is to cheerfully cooperate in the
educational process, including willing compliance with the schoolÕs rules and
standards.
We
are glad that you are a part of the LCS Viking Crew! Please avail yourself of all the opportunities that are here
for you.
The
mission of Lakeland Christian School is to serve as an extension of the
Christian home and as a partner with local evangelical churches in the
Christian education of young people. Students are encouraged to place their
faith in Christ as their personal Savior and to interpret all of life from a
biblical perspective.
The Home:
The
Christian home is one in which the knowledge of the Scriptures and application
of biblical principles are a priority. A commitment to Christ and to spiritual
growth are evidenced by personal Bible study and prayer and by faithful
participation in a local church.
Parents endeavor to apply biblical principles in the raising of their
children.
The Church:
Local,
evangelical churches are an essential part of the ChristianÕs spiritual growth.
They recognized the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the only
infallible and inerrant Word of God.
These churches demonstrate this commitment by placing a priority on the
preaching and teaching of the Bible.
Since a biblical commitment to Christ is always accompanied by a
commitment to His church, it is expected that every LCS family will faithfully
attend a church that will meet its spiritual needs. Students are expected to participate in childrenÕs and youth
activities.
The School:
Christian
education begins with the premise that all truth is GodÕs truth. God has
revealed the truth about Himself in the Scriptures. We discover truth about His creation as we diligently study
the natural world and the intangible truths within creation. A high quality, rigorous curriculum is
provided with a sense of high expectations, in order to encourage the students
to develop their God-given gifts to the fullest.
The Savior:
When
our students place their faith in Christ as their personal Savior, it conveys
their understanding that a relationship with God is established by GodÕs grace,
through personal faith in the work of Christ on the cross. The gospel shapes
our relationship with God and with our fellow man.
To
be a Christian school of influence, characterized by academic excellence and
caring community.
Lakeland
Christian School is fully accredited by the Association of Christian Schools
International (ACSI) and the Florida Council of Independent Schools
(FCIS). ACSI and FCIS are
accrediting members of the Florida Association of Academic Nonpublic Schools, a
group with liaison to the Florida Department of Education. There is no state accreditation program
for any school, public or private, in Florida. All accreditation is accomplished by private agencies such
as FCIS and ACSI. Lakeland
Christian is registered with the State of Florida and is listed in the State
Directory of Nonpublic Schools.
An
element of significant importance in the schooling of a child is the
communication between the teacher and the student. Communication is interpretative and it is important for
parents as well as the students to understand the work demands and expectations
of the teacher. For that reason we
urge parents to confer directly with the classroom teachers. Every teacher will make an effort to
return a parentÕs call on the same day.
If the situation is urgent, you may call the teacher at home. Conferences may be scheduled directly
with the teacher or through the administrative office. The schoolÕs voice mail message and
e-mail system provides an additional means of communication. The school also subscribes to an online
service called ÒRenWeb.Ó Families
are issued login codes and passwords to access current school and class
information including grade reports, assignments, lunch menus, extracurricular
activities, and the school calendar.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Conferences
may be arranged at any time during the school year with the teacher. All new school families are encouraged
to make a conference appointment with their childÕs teacher(s) during the first
quarter of the school year. A
Parent-Teacher conference night is scheduled after the first grading
period. It is noted on the school calendar.
Parent / Teacher / School Problems
Many
problems can be resolved with improved communication between the teacher and
parents. It is important that
parents be sensitive, not only to what is communicated, but also when it takes
place. For example, coming by the
teacherÕs room to discuss a problem in the morning before school is not an
appropriate time. To be most
effective, communication should be attempted when both parties can give the
situation their attention without undue distractions or time pressures.
If
a parent has a problem relating to the school staff or a teacher, it must be
resolved by following the biblical pattern established in Matthew 18.
First
Step: The parent(s) is to make an
appointment with the teacher and attempt to resolve the problem at the
classroom level. In most cases
this is successful.
(Administrators do not normally attend or sit in on these parent-teacher
conferences.)
Second
Step: If the issue remains
unresolved, an appointment should then be made with the appropriate
administrator. It may be necessary
for the teacher to participate in the conference.
Final
Step: If the school administration
cannot get the issue resolved, then and only then is it appropriate to contact
the school board.
Note: Parents who display hostility or lack
of self-discipline toward any school staff member will be asked to remove their
children from the school. The same
is true for parents who gossip or attempt to engender a spirit of strife in the
school.
Parent-School Meetings
Each
year there are a number of meetings planned to orient parents to the philosophy
of the school and to assist parents in the training of their children. These meetings are announced in the
annual and monthly school calendars.
Your attendance and participation are encouraged. These meetings include:
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ParentsÕ Back-to-School Night
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Grade level parentsÕ meetings
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Parent Orientations
Parent Organizations
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The Viking Booster Club is an organization of school parents, teachers,
and friends who are committed to the support of the athletic programs of the
school.
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Moms in Touch is a group of mothers who meet Monday mornings for
prayer. All mothers are welcome to
attend and pray for the needs of our school families.
á
Elementary Home Room Mothers provide assistance with a variety of
special events and projects throughout the year. Their support is of vital importance to LCS.
á
All-Pro DadÕs Day is a monthly breakfast for fathers and their children
held at a local restaurant.
A
detailed ÒAdmissions BrochureÓ is available upon request from the school
office. An achievement test,
interview, pastoral and teacher references and review by the admissions
committee are required of all families applying to the school. Entrance screenings are used upon
discretion of the principal.
Lakeland
Christian SchoolÕs biblical role is to work in conjunction with the home to
mold the students to be Christ-like.
On occasion, the atmosphere or conduct within a particular home may be
counter or in opposition to the biblical lifestyle the school teacher. This includes, but is not limited to,
sexual immorality, homosexual orientation, or inability to support the moral
principles of LCS. In such cases,
the school reserves the right, within its sole discretion, to refuse admission
of an applicant or to discontinue enrollment of a student.
Non-Discriminatory Policy
Lakeland
Christian School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin
to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or
made available to students at the school.
Lakeland Christian School does not discriminate on the basis of race,
color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
Readmission
Families
or students who have withdrawn from Lakeland Christian and then later apply to
be readmitted must have the approval of the school board. A letter requesting readmission,
including the reasons for leaving, must be sent to the Board at the school
address.
K4/K5
Programs
The
four and five year old programs are intended to provide a foundation in each
area of development: mental, social, physical, and spiritual. This full-day program is filled with
learning activities in Bible, math, and integrated reading. Phonemic awareness and phonics are
emphasized. Children have separate
P.E., Art, Library, Computer, Spanish, and Music classes.
Elementary
(Grades 1-5)
The
classroom program in the Elementary school emphasizes biblical values and
concepts in all subject areas. The
curriculum consists of classes in Bible, reading, language arts, math, history
and science. In addition, art,
music, library skills, computer instruction, and physical education are
provided.
Report Cards
Grades
are based on homework, in-class assignments, tests, quizzes, projects, and
other assignments appropriate for each grade level.
Special Programs Department
A
Special Programs Department is available to students with special learning
needs. Students are placed in the
program after being tested and evaluated by the SP staff and in consultation
with the parents.
Individualized
needs are addressed by a designed curriculum plan for each student. There is an additional charge for
students in the program. Class
sizes are limited. Basic-level
classes are also available in some secondary courses to assist SP students.
Lakeland
Christian School participates in the Florida Pride and John M. McKay
Scholarships Programs.
ACADEMIC REPORTS/TESTING PROGRAMS
Achievement Testing
Each
year the school administers a nationally standardized achievement test to all
students grade 1-11. These tests
provide insight into each studentÕs progress on a national scale and allow the
school to identify the degree of its academic effectiveness. A copy of the achievement test scores
is sent to each parent at the end of the school year.
Remedial/Diagnostic Tests
A
full battery of specialized diagnostic tests is available through the Special
Programs Department. There is a
fee for this testing, the conference, and the written report.
Report Cards
Report
cards are issued at the end of each nine-week grading period. The dates of issuance are included on
the annual calendar. Grades are
issued as noted on the report cards.
The grading scale for LCS is:
A: 100-90; B: 89-80; C: 79-70; D: 69-60; and F: 59 and below.
Progress
Reports
Lakeland
Christian School subscribes to an online service that enables families to
receive regular updates on a studentÕs progress in each subject area. Although families may access grades at
any time, teachers update student grades at the end of the third and sixth week
of each quarter. Families without
online services may contact their childÕs teacher for a progress report.
Promotion Policies
Attendance:
Students
must be in regular attendance to be promoted. Students who are absent in excess of 15 days
(excused or unexcused) during a semester or 30 days a year may not be
promoted.
Students
must demonstrate at least average achievement and grades to be promoted. Year-end grades and achievement test
scores are employed to determine adequate achievement. Students who do not demonstrate
adequate achievement are required to participate in intensive, remedial
instruction over the summer to be considered for promotion. Student achievement is assessed at the
end of the summer to determine promotion.
Honor Rolls
There
are two levels of academic honor rolls for grades 4-5. ÒHighest HonorsÓ is for students who
have grades between 94 -100% in academic subjects and ÒHonorsÓ is for students
who have grades between 85-93% in academic subjects. In grades 4-5, physical education, penmanship, music,
computer, and art are not computed in the grade average.
Homework
Homework
is an integral part of the educational process at LCS. It is given to extend the classroom
learning or for practice that will help internalize what has been taught. It is an essential part of independent
learning and for the formation of study skills.
Late Work
There
will be academic penalties for late work.
Specifics on this policy are discussed at Student Orientation Day and
Back-to-School Night.
In
the cases of illness, a student will receive 2 days to make up the work
missed. Adjustments will be made
by the teacher for extended illness.
Summer School
Summer school is required for students with
unsatisfactory progress (below 69%) in math, reading or English. Summer school
is offered at LCS during the months of June and July.
Academic Dismissal
Students
who have more than two (2) failing grades for the semester or year are reviewed
for academic dismissal. Students
who have low grades but whose efforts and attitudes are positive are permitted
to remain as long as the school can serve their academic needs.
Individual Help/Tutoring
Parents
and/or students may contact specific teachers to schedule individual help. The principal can be contacted for a
list of tutors to assist students.
Physical Education
Lakeland
Christian School strives to provide opportunity for the education of the total
child; physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Proper habits of physical conditioning
and recreation are essential to a well-balanced life style. Physical education is part of the
curriculum for all students in grades K4 through 5.
Participation and Non-Participation
Students
in grades K4 through 5 are expected to participate in all physical education
classes. If a student is ill or
injured and will not be participating, the student must bring the PE teacher a
note from his/her parent or guardian requesting that he be excused for that
day.
Students
who sustain a long-lasting illness or injury that prevents them from
participating in class activities will be handled in one of the following ways:
(1) No credit will be given for PE and Òmedically excusedÓ will be entered in
the records. (2) Special projects
or assignments will be given by the instructor in place of class activity. These must be completed as assigned and
by their due dates to receive credit.
Piano Lessons
Individual,
private piano lessons are available during the school day. Lessons are scheduled by the piano
teachers for the least amount of conflict with a studentÕs schedule. Information regarding openings in the
program is available in the Music Department.
Band
Several
levels of band program in the elementary school as well as individual. All
students in grade four participates in a Recorder program. In fifth grade students may participate
in band. Individual lessons are available. There is a registration fee for band
participation.
Chorus
Chorus
is available to fourth and fifth grade students. A hand-bell program is available in fifth grade.
There
is a direct relationship between attendance and learning. Missed classroom teaching and learning
activities can never truly be replaced.
Attitudes regarding the value of education and the importance of study
are shaped by parental priorities regarding school attendance. School attendance policies are designed
to encourage a high value on education.
It is imperative that parents support the importance of school
attendance by not asking for or supporting unnecessary absences.
All-Day Absence
Illnesses,
death in the family, dire family emergencies, or rare and unusual circumstances
as approved by the administration are excusable. All assignments are to be completed without penalty.
Reasons
not described above such as hair appointments or visits with relatives are
considered unexcused. All
assignments missed are to be completed, but with a late work penalty.
Pre-Arranged Absences
Parents
may request a pre-arranged absence for their child for church related
activities, out of town family trips, or other special circumstances approved
by the administration. Pre-arranged
absences must be arranged through Student Services at least one calendar week
in advance. If approved, an
excused absence will be granted.
Pre-arranged absences may not exceed five days per year. Absences that are not approved will be
considered unexcused and will result in an academic penalty. Pre-arranged absences count against the
total number of absences for the year.
15-Day
Rule
Absences
cannot exceed 15 days (excused or unexcused) during one semester. Cases
of extended medical absences or unusual circumstances must require
documentation to waive academic penalty.
Summer school may be required if academics are affected by extended
absences.
Partial-Day Absence:
Entering School During the Day
Students
coming to school after school begins must bring a note signed by a parent or
guardian giving date, specific reason for being late, parent signature, and
phone number where the parent can be reached during the day. Students must sign in at Student
Services when they report to school.
Excused/Unexcused
Students
are generally excused for doctor/dentist appointments, illness, and verified
family emergencies. The school
makes the final judgment on excused or unexcused absences.
Leaving School during the Day
Upon
arrival at school, students are not permitted to leave campus without parental
permission. A student who leaves
without permission is considered truant.
Parents who request their child leave school during the day must provide
a note signed by a parent, stating the time, specific reason for departure, and
phone number where the parent can be reached during the day. This note must be brought to Student
Services at the beginning of the school day. The administration makes the final determination whether the
absence is excused. Students must sign out at Student Services when leaving the
campus.
Field Trips
Attendance
at educational field trips is required.
Parent chaperones are often utilized for purposes of supervision. Pre-school age siblings may attend if
the trip may accommodate them.
Returning to School after Absence
Students
returning to school after an absence must provide a note signed by the parent
including date of absence, specific reason, and phone number where the parent
can be reached during the day.
Students must bring the note to Student Services at the beginning of the
school day. A parent note does not
mean an automatic excused absence.
The administration makes the final excused or unexcused determination.
Student Services will issue the appropriate pass to the student for readmission
to class.
Make-up Work
Make
up work assignments will be prepared by the teachers for students who will be
out of school for a number of days.
Parents are to call the office, and give the school at least 24 hours to
collect assignments and books.
Students
are permitted a maximum of twice the number of days absent to make up the
missed work. The teachers will
assign due dates for make-up work to be completed. Work assigned prior to the absence is due upon return to
school.
Tardy
Students are expected to be at school on time. Students who are tardy to school must
sign-in at Student Services and secure a pass to their classroom.
The
school provides additional services to school families, including after-school
supervision, a hot lunch program and insurance.
After-School
Supervision
After-school care is provided for students in grades
K4-5 from dismissal until 6:00 PM.
There is an additional charge for this service. If you are unable to pick- up your
elementary student at the time of their dismissal, please register for
supervision.
Registration must be done through the Business
Office.
Lunch Program
Lakeland
Christian School believes that proper nutrition plays a vital role in
supporting the learning environment as well as physical and spiritual
development. The lunch program is viewed as an extended classroom to teach and
support the fundamental importance of eating well-balanced meals.
A
traditional hot lunch, composed of the five food groups, is served daily with a
choice of two entrees. A soup and salad bar will be available for older
children as well as a number of a la carte items. It is our goal to provide meal options that offer a variety
of selections and support optimal nutrition in a cafeteria environment that is
both fun and exciting.
Lunch
money for your family may be deposited in an account through several options:
by using a credit card system, transferring funds electronically or sending a
check directly to the Business Office.
Each time a child makes a purchase, it will show on your personal
account on ParentsWeb. Please monitor your familyÕs balance regularly and
deposit funds when the account is low.
Insurance Coverage
While
in attendance at school or participating in a school-sponsored activity (field
trip, sporting event, etc.), students are covered by supplementary
insurance. Twenty-four hour
coverage may be purchased for an additional fee. Parents should acquaint themselves with the provisions of
the policy provided in a brochure mailed out each summer. All sports activities are covered at no
additional cost.
If
a child is injured during the school day, the teacher will send him/her to the
clinic in the Student Services area. Parents will be contacted if any injury
requires treatment. It is very
important that the school clinic has a current medical information card with
emergency numbers listed. The
clinic attendant will assist you in completing the required insurance
forms. Please notify Student
Services immediately if your child reports an injury that took place while at
school.
The
at-school insurance is ÒexcessÓ and will pay claims after filing on your
personal insurance first. Claims are
paid according to a schedule of benefits and normally do not cover all expenses
incurred in an accident. The
coverage provided is meant to supplement the personal insurance carried by each
family. All school activities are
covered at the limits published in the insurance brochure at no additional
cost.
Campus Visitors (Adults)
Any
visitor to the school campus during the school day must first sign in at the
Elementary Office/Student Services.
Please be prepared to present your driverÕs license each time. This includes school parents
visiting the campus during the day.
If there are items that need to be delivered to a student, they are to
be dropped off at Student Services.
Parents and visitors may not go directly to the classrooms.
Student Visitors
Student
visitors from other schools who are considering attendance at LCS are permitted
to visit. An LCS student may bring
a visitor only once during a school year.
The student must obtain a form from the office to request permission
from each classroom teacher to have a visitor. All visitors must abide by the dress code set for the
school.
Policy on Disabilities
If
a child has a disability for which an accommodation is necessary, it is the
parentÕs obligation to notify the school of the disability and to cooperate in
the schoolÕs processes to confirm the nature of the disability, the
restrictions or limitations it imposes, and the range of appropriate
accommodations.
Medical Information Cards
It
is important that each student has an emergency information card on
record. This card must be on file
before any first aid can be given to any child. These cards are kept in the school office.
Transcript Policy
Transcripts
of students will be sent to other educational institutions, when requested by a
parent. All financial obligations
to LCS must be met before any records or transcripts will be released.
Change of Residence
It
is essential that the school have accurate family information. Contact the Main Office of any change
in address or telephone numbers.
If a student changes residence to live with someone other than the
parent/guardian who enrolled the student in the school, written notification of
this arrangement must be submitted to the Main Office. Whenever possible, the school should be
notified prior to the change in guardianship. All students must be under the direct supervision of a
parent or guardian while they are enrolled at the school.
Withdrawal From School
Parents
must notify the school to initiate the withdrawal of a student. Each teacher must sign the withdrawal
form. Books are to be turned in to
the Main Office before the form will be completed. Parents are to see the Principal and Business Manager before
leaving school. No records will be
forwarded until all financial obligations to the school have been
fulfilled.
Students
are permitted to use various items of school property while attending LCS. These items include equipment,
textbooks, and lockers, all of which are to be kept in good condition
throughout the year. Because of
the high costs involved in replacing such items, fees will be assessed if they
are damaged or lost.
Textbooks
Students
are loaned textbooks and are supplied with workbooks for most of their
classes. Textbooks must always be
covered, and the student is responsible for the care and maintenance of his or
her books. A damage fee may be
assessed for excessive wear or damage.
Replacement costs are assessed to any student who loses a book or turns
in a book other than the one that was assigned to him. If books are written in or are
considered irreparable, the full price of the book will be charged. Book replacement and damage fees must
be paid prior to the release of the final grades or school records.
In
the training of children, it is necessary that guidelines be set up to
establish the limits of acceptable behavior. The atmosphere, in which most students learn best, is one
which is ordered, structured, and disciplined.
Each
student is expected to be familiar with the rules of the school and the
classroom and adhere to them. A
supportive, cooperative attitude on the part of the parents usually transfers
to the children.
If
your child is disciplined at school, we recommend:
á
Remain calm and objective and get all the facts from the teacher as well
as your child before judging either of them. Proverbs 18:12, 14:17
á
Remember the teacher is an experienced professional who loves your child
and uses good judgment in disciplining him. Proverbs 13:24 and 16:21
á
Understand that children do not like discipline and it is in their
nature to relate incidents in ways favorable to themselves. Proverbs 15:10
á
Discuss the disciplinary incident with the teacher, and remember that
you and the teacher are partners.
Proverbs 15:22
á
Remember your response is a model for your child(ren) to emulate. Support the teacher in attitude and
action.
Students
should understand that discipline is an act of love, and at LCS teachers and
administrators love students enough to discipline them. Infractions of the rules of the school
or classroom are dealt with by the classroom teacher. If the problem is serious or becomes repetitive, the school
administration may become involved.
Disciplinary
Procedures at LCS include:
á
Verbal Reprimand
á
Parent/teacher/student administration conferences
á
Dismissal from class (unexcused absence)
á
Assigned projects or contracts
á
Suspension (unexcused absence)
á
Expulsion
Students
are expected to exhibit a submissive and obedient spirit. Serious offense may result in
suspension, and/or expulsion.
These offenses include: defiance or disrespect to teachers, staff, or
fellow students, cutting classes, cheating, damaging school property,
profanity, vulgarity, or repeated violations of school or classroom
regulations. Each case will be
handled on an individual basis depending on the specific nature of the offense(s).
Students
who display a lack of cooperation, a negative attitude toward the school, a
teacher, or academic work will be reviewed for dismissal.
Students
will be placed on behavioral probation for a major violation of school code or
exceeding 5 office referrals in one semester. Four (4) weeks is the minimum probationary period.
Attending
Lakeland Christian School is a privilege, and that privilege is based on the
continued acceptance and support by students and parents of the school
regulations. Any student or
parent, who expresses an attitude of disregard for the school, its standards,
or teachers, may be asked to withdraw from the school. Parents and students are expected to acquaint
themselves with the schoolÕs rules and to abide willingly by them.
School Computer Usage
The
computers at Lakeland Christian School are to be used for educational purposes
only. Educational purposes include
academic research, completing class assignments, and software training. Use of computer systems for
entertainment (games, etc.) and commercial solicitation, chatting, posting to
Òthe boardsÓ, or other inappropriate activities is prohibited. The Computer Use Policy is posted in
computer labs and the media center.
Student use of any school computer constitutes an agreement with the
Computer Use Policy. Violations of
these policies may result in suspension or termination of computer use
privileges and other disciplinary action.
Implied Consent
When
a student enrolls at Lakeland Christian School, he/she waives the right of
privacy related to any personal property brought on campus. Refusal to comply with a request for
permission to search a studentÕs possessions may result in expulsion.
Social Activities, Entertainment
The Bible calls Christians to
exercise discernment and godly judgment in their activities and
affections. Though Scripture does
not specifically refer to every activity or entertainment available in our
culture, it does call us to holiness of life. Parents are encouraged to monitor the entertainment options
exercised by their students.
Lakeland Christian School
partners with a wide array of families and churches within the body of
Christ. Many differ on their view
of appropriate entertainment for teens.
One of those controversial issues relates to dancing. Although school families may sponsor
such activities it is the position of the school not to sponsor dances.
Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
Lakeland
Christian School endeavors to maintain a drug free environment. The school takes a serious view of drug
possession and abuse, both as a legal and spiritual issue. Students are not permitted to possess,
use, be under the influence of, or supply to another student any form of
alcohol, illegal drug, or tobacco product. In addition, students are expected to avoid situations in
which drugs/alcohol are being used.
Should students find themselves in such a situation, they are expected
to leave. These standards apply to
the student off-campus as well as on-campus. Any violation of this policy will result in suspension
pending action of the School Board regarding dismissal. Involvement with drugs or alcohol
normally results in expulsion. Law
enforcements agencies will be notified when appropriate.
Student Drug
Testing
LCS
is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment. In order to realize this goal, the school maintains the
right to require that parents have their student tested for drugs and the
results submitted to the administration.
A student may be suspended until the school receives the results. Negative test results can be used as
evidence to dispel rumors.
Positive findings will normally result in expulsion, though the school
will make an effort to assist the family in obtaining help for the
student. The response of the
family and the student in dealing with the problem will determine whether or
not the student will be considered for readmission at a later time. Failure to comply with a drug test
request may result in expulsion.
Harassment/Bullying
LCS
is committed to maintaining an environment in which all individuals treat each
other with dignity and respect and which is free from all forms of
intimidation, exploitation, hazing and harassment, including sexual
harassment. The school is prepared
to take action to prevent and correct any violations of this policy. A complete copy of this policy will be
made available to students and employees upon request.
Sexual
Morality
In
light of GodÕs Word (1Thess. 4:3, 1 Cor. 6:18-20) Lakeland Christian School
upholds a biblical view of morality.
Whenever there is clear evidence of willing participation in sexual
immorality (such as premarital sexual relations, unwed pregnancy,
homosexuality) a student will not be permitted to attend LCS. In addition,
since the Scriptures teach that life is sacred, a student who has an abortion
may not attend LCS. Parents of
students in violation of these policies will be asked to withdraw them from the
school. Should the parents choose
not to withdraw the student, a hearing by the Board of Directors will be
convened to rule on dismissal.
Arrest and/or
Conviction of a Crime
Lakeland
Christian School students are expected to obey the laws of the community,
state, and nation. Any student who
is arrested, charged with, or convicted of a crime, other than minor traffic
violations will be subject to school discipline which may include expulsion. Offenders are required to report such
incidents to the school administration for review. Failure to report an incident will result in immediate
suspension pending action by the School Board regarding dismissal.
Cheating
Cheating
includes any work that a student submits that has not been completed honestly
and fully by him or herself. The
exchanging of answers on homework, as well as plagiarism, is considered
cheating. Both the obtainer and
supplier of information are treated the same. For a first violation the student receives a grade of zero
for the assignment or test and a one-day suspension or Saturday School. In cases involving plagiarism, the work
must be redone. For a second
violation, the consequences are the same as the above. In addition the student will be placed
on behavioral probation. If the
second violation occurs in the same course, the student will receive a failing
grade (41% reduction) for the quarter and a three-day suspension.
Dangerous
Weapons/Items
Any
student who brings a dangerous weapon (firearms/knives) or any item that would
endanger the health, safety, and well-being of students or staff on school
property will immediately be suspended from school, pending a hearing with the
School Board.
Note:
The possession of a concealed weapon is a felony crime and requires that
the incident be reported to the authorities.
Any
student who is complicit in concealing the presence of a weapon will also be
suspended, pending a dismissal hearing before the Board of Directors. Neither pocket knives, lighters,
firecrackers, nor other types of dangerous objects are permitted at school or
on school buses.
Distractible Items
Laser
pointers, water guns, playing cards, cameras, listening devices, and most
electronic equipment are among items not permitted at school. Normally these items will be confiscated
and held until the last day of school or until the studentÕs parent comes to
the school to obtain them. If one
of these items is necessary for educational purposes, special permission may be
granted by the principal.
Chewing Gum
Gum is not permitted on campus.
Inappropriate
Reading Material
Comic
books, magazines, books, or other material inappropriate for the school setting
are not permitted. Inappropriate
materials will be confiscated.
Some may be returned at a parent conference. Any student who brings written or pictorial materials with
profane, obscene, or vulgar content, will be suspended from school and the
material destroyed.
Contact
Between Students
No
physical contact between boys and girls is permitted at school. Students are to ensure that, whether
they are in class, in the halls, or in chapel, there is some visible space
between them.
Elevators
Usage
Students
may not ride the elevators without an appropriate pass. Students who choose to
ride the elevator without appropriate passes will be subject to disciplinary
action. An elementary school student must be accompanied by an adult to ride
the elevator.
Transportation
for School Activities
Students
riding a bus to a school activity (i.e. field trip, sports event) will be
required to return by bus. The
only exception to this is when a student receives permission from the faculty
sponsor to return with his own parents.
Dress
for these activities is school dress code, unless another standard of dress has
been announced beforehand.
Bus
Guidelines
Students
are to conduct themselves in a manner that is conducive to the safe and
efficient operation of the bus. Students are to adhere to the seating
arrangement established by the driver or chaperone and remain seated at all
times when the bus is in motion. Students are to remain silent when the dome
light is on and when the bus stops as railroad crossings. Students are to
refrain from bringing food or drink on the bus unless instructed otherwise by
the chaperone who will establish responsibilities for trash and clean up. Students are to refrain from throwing
objects from the windows, sticking arms or heads out of the windows, or making
inappropriate gestures to a passerby. Students are expected to obey bus drivers
and chaperones at all times.
Dress After
School and At Extra Curricular Activities
Students
remaining after school for various activities are required to be in modest
attire. Students may not wear
shorts with less than a four-inch in-seam to any school activity. No clothing which exposes the midriff
is allowed. No visible tattoos or
body piercing jewelry (except for girlsÕ earrings) are permitted. Boys are to
wear shirt whenever they are on campus.
Cellular
Phones/Wireless Communication Devices
Cell
phones are not to be seen or heard during school hours (7:50-3:10). There are
to be no incoming or outgoing calls received or placed by students during the
course of the school day. Additionally, there is to be no text messaging during
the course of the school day.
Cellular
phones should be kept in a secure place.
The school cannot be responsible for theft or loss.
Dress
code is frequently a point of contention, frustration, and distraction in
Christian schools for students, parents, and faculty. This should not be the case. We hope the following
guidelines will help you understand and commit to the overall attitude we
desire.
The
Scriptures only touch the issue of dress through principles. A Christian school dress code can be
dealt with on a ÒspiritualÓ basis, only as it relates to biblical
principles. The underlying
principles are not usually a source of contention. They are more frequently related to institutional
preferences, which the school chooses.
Two different Christian schools that are equally committed to the
Scriptures may have different dress guidelines for their faculty and
students. Just as churches and
families also have varying perspectives.
Each school necessarily establishes boundaries that conform to its
mission.
The
principles found in I Timothy 2:9-10, 4:12 and Titus 2:6-8 teach:
á
Appropriateness – Òin harmony with the situationÓ
á
Modesty – Òmoral sensibility within the bounds of proprietyÓ
á
Humility – Ònot proud or self-assertiveÓ
In
addition, neatness, respect and gender distinction are basic to the code.
The
school established its rules of dress to meet these standards and also to
reasonably enforce them. Some
specific items of dress are not permitted at school because of the difficulty
in making fine distinctions between appropriate and inappropriate attire.
Judgments
of interpretation are always a part of dress code implementation. Students and parents with questions are
encouraged to check with the administration before purchasing clothing.
Note to
Parents
Parents
are encouraged to teach their children to live happily and submissively within
the codeÕs guidelines. Nitpicking
criticism, to which any set of rules is susceptible, creates a spirit of unrest
in children. We want to prevent
the dress code from becoming a major issue
at LCS. Even though we readily
acknowledge that much of the dress code is mere institutional preference, it is
not optional. Students are
expected to comply with the code and parents are expected to monitor compliance
before their children leave home. We are not here to be Òclothes police.Ó It is inappropriate that complying
students, teachers, or principals be distracted from the educational process,
due to someone failing in his or her commitment to follow the code.
The
ambiguities of many terms associated with the dress and the ongoing changes in
styles, necessitates that the school publish an annual dress code description
which can be obtained in the Elementary Office or found on the LCS
website.
Dress Code
Enforcement
If
a student is out of dress code, parents will be notified and asked to remedy
the situation. If the problem is
not taken care of in a timely manner, the student may be removed from class.
In
the case of boys needing haircuts, they will be given three (3) days (including
the day of the violation) to get it cut properly. If the violation involved an improper haircut or style, the
violation must be corrected.
In
the case of legitimate misunderstanding or other extenuating circumstances, the
Principal or Assistant Principal may excuse the student from any penalty. (The violation still must be
corrected). A perpetual lack of cooperation regarding dress code often indicated
an attitude incompatible with continued attendance at LCS.
Some
parental attitudes that would be helpful in regard to the dress code:
- Do not let your child
operate on the brink – keep hair and clothing well within the
limits. It is your
responsibility to see that your child stays within the limits set by the
school.
- DonÕt take it
personally. We do not wish to
make a big issue over it and hope you donÕt either.
- Explain to your child
the function of a dress code and the importance of children learning to
live within the limits.
- DonÕt let the
inconvenience of circumstances make you lose control of your
emotions. Please remind your
child that parents and the school are partners in this issue.