Handbook

“Equipping students to be leaders in the workplace, community, and church.”

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Table of ContentsOpportunity.............................................................................................4

Biblical principles.....................................................................................4

Core Values..............................................................................................5

Standard of Conduct................................................................................7

Admissions Policy.....................................................................................8

Admissions Procedure..........................................................................8

Parental involvement...............................................................................9

Christian Leadership training.................................................................10

Christian Americanism...........................................................................11

Pledge of Allegiance to the Bible........................................................11

Pledge of Allegiance to the Christian Flag..........................................11

Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.........................................11

Attendance.............................................................................................12

Absences............................................................................................12

Tardiness............................................................................................14

Early Dismissal....................................................................................14

Policies & Procedures.............................................................................16

Learning Center Rules............................................................................17

General...............................................................................................17

Student Offices...................................................................................17

PACE's................................................................................................18

Scoring Stations..................................................................................19

P a g e | 3Testing................................................................................................19

Homework.........................................................................................19

Discipline................................................................................................21

Demerits.............................................................................................23

Time-Out/Loss of recess.....................................................................24

Incentive Program..................................................................................26

Privilege Status...................................................................................26

Merits.................................................................................................29

Dress Code and Appearance..................................................................30

Proper Attire......................................................................................30

Physical Appearance..........................................................................31

Physical Education..............................................................................31

Monthly Scripture..................................................................................32

General Rules & Information.................................................................33

Books/Magazines/Music/Media/Misc. Items.....................................33

Cellular Phone Use.............................................................................34

Closed Campus Policy.........................................................................34

Finances.............................................................................................34

"Hands off" Rule.................................................................................35

Breakfast............................................................................................35

Lunch..................................................................................................35

Medical guidelines.............................................................................36

School Property..................................................................................37

Searches.............................................................................................37

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OpportunityThe objective of a private school is to teach children how to live and to equip them for success.

Shenango Valley Faith Academy should be an extension of the home in training young people. The school staff works closely with parents to train the whole child.

Attendance at this school is a privilege and not a right. The goal of this school is to train youth in the highest principles of biblical faith, individual responsibility, personal integrity, respectful attitude, and striving for excellence. This school stands without apology for high standards of morality and wisdom.

So I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil. (Rom. 16:19)

Biblical principlesOne of the basic reasons why parents enroll their children in a private school is to obtain an education grounded in moral values. This school uses the Biblically based School of Tomorrow curriculum, which includes scripture memory passage and references to God and Jesus Christ- all designed to help students develop moral character, a sense of accountability, and wisdom in their lives. Standards of

P a g e | 6personal conduct, school policies, and curriculum continue to build the students’ sense of responsibility and integrity.

Core ValuesThe following are the Core Values of Shenango Valley Faith Academy. Although there will be many moral character traits the students will learn, it is our goal that our students will learn and exemplify these specific traits during their education and throughout their lives. The values, tenets, and scripture verses will be memorized by the students during the first several weeks of school.

Faith – We will strive to honor God through our worship, our obedience to His Word, and our witness to others.

Hebrews 11:1-3 – “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.  This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.”

Kindness – We will accept others for who they are, tolerating their weaknesses, and in all ways, showing respect, empathy, compassion, and forgiveness when we are wronged.

Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Responsibility – We will accept responsibility for our actions. We will do our best to exhibit self-control, and when

P a g e | 7we fail, we will confess our sins, seek forgiveness from God, and make amends to those we have wronged.

1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Respect – We will obey and show respect for God and those He puts in authority.

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.”

Honesty – We will be truthful in everything we say and do.

Ephesians 4:25 – “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”

Excellence – As God has given His all for us, we will give our all for God.

Romans 12:1-2 – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform 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.”

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Standard of ConductStudents of this school are expected to refrain from talking about or engaging in cheating, stealing, swearing, smoking, gambling, drinking alcoholic beverages, sexual activity, and using narcotics. Students who participate in and discuss such activities at school are subject to suspension. Students are expected to act in an orderly and respectful manner,

maintaining Biblical standards of social courtesy, moral behavior, acceptable language, and honesty. Students must agree to strive towards unquestionable character in dress, conduct, and attitude.

Any student observing questionable activities or overhearing conversations which are contrary to the policies of this academy should immediately discuss the matter with a supervisor. This is not tattling. It has been said, “All it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.” “Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.”(James 4:17)

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Admissions Policy This school admits students of any race, color, and national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities, generally accorded or made available to the students at the school. It does not discriminate on the base of race, color, national and ethnic origin, or Christian denomination.

Admissions Procedure Parents/guardians and student must:

1. Visit the school and pick up a prospective student packet. It may include an application, handbook, and a Pastor Recommendation form.

2. Fill out forms and read through this handbook thoroughly.

3. Request that your pastor fill out Pastor's Recommendation form.

4. Submit the application accompanied by the application fee (non-refundable) and previous report card (exception a Kindergarten student).

Following fulfillment of these requirements, parents/guardians and student will be contacted to arrange an interview with the Principal and/or Pastor. Parents will subsequently be notified of acceptance and then must:

P a g e | 105. Schedule a day for Diagnostic testing.6. Submit a recent physical, birth certificate, and up-

to-date immunization record to the principal.7. Sign Record Release form for previous school.8. Attend a Parent Orientation program.

*To ensure the safety and well-being of both the students and staff, it is imperative to disclose and pertinent information concerning your child’s academics and behavior as soon as possible. This is important for the staff’s preparation and student’s success.

Parental involvement Parent orientation and conferences promote good understanding between parents/guardians and faculty/administration of the school. Every parent is expected to participate in these informative and helpful meetings. In addition, parents are welcome to visit the school at any time, by simply calling staff for admittance into the building. We also urge parents to commit to praying for the school every day.

 SVFA schedules Parent/Teacher conferences at the end of the first and third quarter. At this time, parents are encouraged to discuss the progress of their student with his/her Teacher. Parent conferences other than at this time will be set up on an individual basis, as deemed necessary by staff or parent.

P a g e | 11Enrollment into SVFA constitutes parental agreement to volunteer time and fundraising efforts. Volunteer

opportunities will be offered throughout the year on an as needed basis. Parents will be notified monthly on their current participation in fundraising and volunteering. Any parents failing to participate may be charged a fee accordingly.

SVFA is always open to new ideas and encourages parents to present any thoughts or activities that may enhance the school to the staff.

Christian Leadership trainingDevotions: Weekly devotions will be offered to the students. All high school students will be given the opportunity to be trained in leading devotions for the younger students.

Chapel: Regular chapel sessions are held during which the student identifies his education with Biblical principles and wisdom.

Students must bring Bibles to all devotions, chapels, and special meetings.

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Christian AmericanismChristian Americanism places emphasis upon the greatness of America's heritage and the sacrifices of her heroes. America's

constitution guaranties liberties to educate in order to preserve freedom. We unashamedly teach the Biblical doctrines of self-discipline, respect for those in authority, obedience to the law, and their natural outgrowth, which is love for our flag and our country.

 Pledge of Allegiance to the Bible I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word. I will make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I will hide its words in my heart that I might not sin against God.

Pledge of Allegiance to the Christian FlagI 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 American FlagI 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.

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 Attendance

AbsencesA written excuse signed by a parent or guardian must be presented to the Teacher when a student returns to school after an absence. If the absence is foreseeable, such as a vacation or family event, an Excused Absence Request Form must be submitted one week prior to absent day request. Non-emergency appointments should be scheduled after school hours.

Absences are not excused until the teacher receives a satisfactory explanation from the parent. Excuses should be brought in within two days of the absence. Absences are normally excused for illness, death in the family, hazardous driving conditions, or other emergencies. Absences for other reasons are not excused unless arrangements have been made in advance with the teacher, and the student is not behind in his/her school work. If the teacher is unsure as to whether the absence can be classified as excused, he/she will consult the Principal.

Since the goal of the school is to be an extension of the family, we understand that there will be occasions of family vacations during the school year. For such occasions, the school must be notified as far in advance as possible. If the student is on track with his/her schoolwork, they will be excused without required work. If the student is behind, pace

P a g e | 14work may be sent with the student and will be expected to be completed upon return to school.

Absences and tardiness, whether excused or unexcused, are an important part of each student's cumulative record, so accurate records are a must. Unusual absenteeism will be reported to the County Truancy Officer. Since more than ten unexcused absences may result in a student's expulsion, the teacher must alert both the parents and the Principal of the existence of each unexcused absence.

 A student will be counted absent who has not been in school at least 3.5 hours in a school day.

If a student accumulates 3 unlawful absences, the family will be required to attend a Truancy Elimination Plan meeting with teachers and administration. At this meeting, a plan will be put into place to try to avoid further absences by the student.

If the student accumulates a fourth absence following the Truancy Elimination Plan meeting, proceedings may be initiated against the parents before a magisterial district judge and a referral for general protective services may be made to the county children and youth agency.

Once a student has accumulated 10 absences, a doctor’s note is required for all future absences. If you are aware of any future absences, they must be preapproved by the principal.

P a g e | 15TardinessA student is considered tardy if he/she is not in the classroom, prepared to start morning exercises at 8:15 AM. A student who arrives after 8:15 AM or leaves before the end of the

school day must sign in/out at the principal’s office. Continued tardiness will necessitate a conference with parents and Principal, possibly leading to revocation of student privileges and/or to

suspension.

If the student accumulates five unexcused instances of tardiness, he/she will be considered one day absent.

On the rare occasion that tardiness is unavoidable, such as hazardous road condition or vehicle malfunction, the parent is requested to call the school and notify staff of the situation. In such circumstances, the tardiness may be excused, but may still result in an accumulative absence.  

Early DismissalStudents are permitted to leave early only with written permission from parent/guardian and must sign out at the teacher’s desk.

Employed high school juniors and seniors may be allowed to dismiss early for employment reasons. Student’s participation in early work dismissal program is subject to evaluation and may be revoked at any time by school staff or parent.

P a g e | 16Guidelines for early work dismissal:

1. Student must be on track for graduation... 2. Student must have parental permission.3. Student must provide verification of employment.4. Student must provide weekly work schedule in

advance.5. The earliest the student may leave is 1:00 PM

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Policies & ProceduresProper Procedures for PACE work (Packet of Accelerated Christian Education)

At the beginning of each work day, Daily Goals for Pace work are set and approved. Each student is typically required to complete 4-6 pages per subject per day, according to student’s academic plan and individual needs. Once daily goals are set, they may not be changed without approval from teacher.

The first portion of PACE work time is set aside for any required tests. Once tests are completed, the student should begin PACE work on any subjects in which the student will complete the PACE that day, so they may be prepared for the Self Test the following day.

Self Test – the practice test that determines student preparedness for PACE Test.

PACE Test – the final test which determines the student’s grade for the PACE. Students should study the Checkups and Self Test Thoroughly in preparation for PACE Test.

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Learning Center Rules

General

1. Students are not permitted to speak or be away from their office without permission, unless privilege status is earned. No turning sideways or around in office or tipping back in chair.

2. Activities not related to prescribe material are not to be conducted in office unless given permission.

3. The Christian flag should be raised for Teacher guidance in academic difficulties. The American flag is to be raised for teacher assistance in basic needs (scoring, getting checkup signed, sharpening pencil, etc.). Personal questions should be asked at break time.

4. All students will be required to work in PACEs until 1:00PM with the exception of those students who have earned “E” privilege. If daily goals are completed prior to 1:00PM additional pages or other academic work will be added accordingly.

5. School computers are primarily used for educational purposes, but personal computer time have be earned by the student

Student Offices

1. Offices are assigned and changed only by the Teacher and must be maintained in a tidy fashion.

2. Items placed in office must be pre-approved by the Teacher.

P a g e | 193. Students are not to sit on work surface of office nor

lean against dividers.4. Goal Card is to be posted at all times. Card must be

kept neat and up-to-date, using a blue pen. 5. The Progress (Star) Chart is to be posted at all times

and no marks are to be made on it.

PACE's

1. All curricula are the property of the school and are NOT to be shared among students.

2. Final tests will be taken the day following completion of the unit. Upon successful completion of the PACE test, a new unit will be issued.

3. Congratulations Slips should be taken home to parents the day it is received.

4. All work is to be done in pencil unless otherwise instructed.

5. Use of calculators is not permitted until Math PACE 1073.

6. If a student fails to pass a final test, he will be issued a new (repeat) unit and the family account will be charged accordingly. A failed PACE notice will be sent home for the parent to sign and should be returned to the school the next day.

Scoring Stations

1. Score Keys are to be handled carefully and returned to proper place. Score Key answers are for scoring work only.

P a g e | 202. Mark a red "X" beside each wrong answer. Red pens

are NEVER to be at student office.3. Correct wrong answers in pencil at office.4. When rescoring, circle each red "X" in red when

answer is correct. Mark the bottom of the page with a red “C” when all answers are correct on the page.

5. Repeat steps two and three until all answers are correct.

Testing After the PACE is completed, scored, and studied, the test is administered the next morning. Test will be administered at the testing area. Students are allowed only to have pencils or blank scrap paper at the testing area.

HomeworkThe responsibility for scholastic achievement is placed on the student. It should not be necessary for students to take academic work home. In most cases, daily goals set by the student and reviewed by the Teacher will be no more than the student is capable of completing during the school day. Should the student not complete his goals, he will be required to complete the work at home or after school in the Learning Center. Should the student need to take work home, it will be indicated in the student's Take Home Folder. The Homework Slip is to be signed by a parent and returned to the Teacher the following day.

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DisciplineSVFA is not a corrective institution! Consequently, we ask that a child not be enrolled with the idea that we will reform him. It is our goal to work with the home, but not to take the place of parents who have experienced difficulty in fulfilling their role.

All new students are admitted on probation for the first six weeks.

The student must conduct himself in a Christ-like manner at all times. Griping is not tolerated! If your child complains about a rule or about discipline, please follow this procedure -

1. Give the staff the benefit of the doubt. 2. Realize that your child's reporting is emotionally biased and may not include all the facts.3. Realize that the school has reasons for every rule and that rules are enforced without partiality.4. Support Administration and call school for information.

When a student's attitude is not in accord with school policies and principles, he/she may be placed on probation. Parents will be called for a conference. If Administration feels the situation has not changed with a designated time, parents may be asked to withdraw the student.

Because of their testimony before younger children, high school students in particular are trained to adhere to the

P a g e | 22school's philosophy and Christ-centered program. This philosophy is outlined in Philippians 4:8, which instructs Christians to be involved in only those things which glorify Christ. 

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (Phil 4:8 NIV) 

SVFA is dedicated to training children for life in a program of study and activities that are Christ-centered. We believe that "All things should be done decently and in order" and that our students should be taught to accept the responsibility to "Walk honorably before all men." 

Discipline is maintained by staff in a firm, consistent, and fair manner; tempered with love. We endeavor to use discernment and good judgment. The staff encourages high standards of conduct in the Learning Center through kindness, love and a genuine regard for each student. Students are taught that the Lord Jesus Christ expects us to be disciplined in all areas of life. 

Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. (Col 3:20 NIV) 

Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls,... (Heb 13:17a NIV) 

P a g e | 23Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death. (Prov. 19:18)

DemeritsThe paramount rule at SVFA is "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Demerits are earned for disturbances and broken rules according the following guidelines:

Offense ConsequenceHomework slip not signed 1 demeritHomework slip signed indicating completion, yet homework is unfinished or left at home

1 demerits

Each page of homework not completed

1 demerit with unfinished work being added to the next day’s goals

Take Home Folder left at school 2 demerits with guidelines for uncompleted homework applying

Individual Pace left at home Consequences for “Each page of homework not completed”, plus, the usual goals for that subject will be sent home as homework the following day.

Scoring Violations 1 demerit per pageAny notice being sent home requiring parent signature no returned (i.e. corrective action notice, failed pace notice)

1 demerit per day not returned

General rule violations (talking, out of seat without permission,

1 demerit per offense

P a g e | 24messy desk, tipping chair, etc.)

Time-Out/Loss of recessGrades K-8When a student begins accumulating demerits, they will be given a “time-out” during recess time after lunch. The consequences are as follows -

Offense Consequence2 demerits 5 minute time-out

4 demerits 10 minute time-out

6 demerits 15 minute time-out

8 demerits 20 minute time-out

Recess lasts between 25-30 minutes, so all students will receive at least 5-10 minutes of social time. Demerits are accumulated from immediately after recess one day to recess the next day. So if a child receives 2 demerits for talking one afternoon and 2 demerits for incomplete homework the next morning, he/she will receive the consequence for accumulating 4 demerits, a 10 minute time-out at the beginning of recess time.

When a student receives 8 or more demerits in one school day, a Corrective Action Notice is sent home with the student, notifying the parent of the student’s disruptive behavior. The notice must be signed by parents and returned to the Teacher

P a g e | 25the next day. Any recess time-out earned will be given, and the student may receive additional consequences.

Demerits are an indication that a student may need direction in developing principles of character. Conferences with the Teacher, Principal, and parents are sometimes necessary to encourage this character development. More serious offenses (i.e. hitting, swearing, smoking, breaking school property, etc) will result in disciplinary action deemed necessary by staff.

High SchoolHigh school students will have a higher expectation of maturity and will be treated as such. Accumulating demerits may result in a before or after school detention or another consequence deemed necessary by staff. If a student receives a before or after school detention, parent’s will be notified immediately and be given the option for a detention before or after school.

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Incentive Program

Privilege StatusAs an incentive to promote learning achievement, SVFA has established a privilege program. Each student may earn higher levels of privilege as he demonstrates greater levels of responsibility. The three levels of privileges are indicated by the initials of our school’s curriculum: "A-C-E”. The lowest level of privilege is "A" privilege, the highest privilege level is "E". Privilege Statuses are earned every quarter, and a student’s first quarter privilege will be based on the last quarter of the previous year. If a student is new or had no privilege during the last quarter, he/she will be given “A” privilege.Level "A" Responsibilities

1. Complete 18 PACE's during the previous quarter.

2. Maintain academic balance.

3. Maintain an overall PACE average of 80%.

4. Accumulate no more than 60 Demerits in the previous

quarter.

5. Memorize and recite monthly Scripture selection.

Level "A" Privileges

1. May listen to music privately after completing 4

PACEs each day.*

P a g e | 272. May participate in approved extra-curricular activities

at their desk, once Daily Goals are completed.

3. May be away from their desk to participate in

approved extra-curricular activities in the Activity

Center following 1:00 PM.

Level "C" Responsibilities

1. Complete 20 PACE's during previous quarter.

2. Maintain academic balance.

3. Maintain an overall average of 88%.

4. Accumulate no more than 45 Demerits in the previous

quarter.

5. Memorize and recite the monthly Scripture selection.

Level "C" Privileges

1. May listen to music privately after complete 2 PACEs

each day.*

2. May participate in approved extra-curricular activities

at their desk, once Daily Goals are completed.

3. May be away from their desk to participate in

approved extra-curricular activities in the Activity

Center beginning at 12:30 PM.

4. May complete their last PACE away from their desk in

Learning Center.

P a g e | 285. May participate in “C and E” privilege Field Trips.

Level "E" Responsibilities

1. Must be at Sixth Grade level in age and PACE work.

2. Complete 22 PACE's during previous quarter.

3. Maintain academic balance.

4. Maintain an overall average of 94%.

5. Accumulate no more than 30 Demerits in the previous

quarter.

6. Memorize and recite the monthly Scripture selections.

7. Must be involved in some form of Christian service

outside of school on a regular basis. (A signature is

needed by an adult supervisor to verify service)

8. Will be expected to do certain tasks as requested by

teachers.

Level "E" Privileges

1. May listen to music privately any time.*

2. May be away from their desk to participate in

approved extra-curricular activities following recess.

3. May leave office and Learning Center for approved

activity or projects under supervision of staff.

4. May complete final two PACEs away from desk in the

Learning or Activity Center.

P a g e | 295. May participate in “C and E” privilege Field Trips.

6. May participate in “Pastor Carl Lunch”, where Pastor

Carl takes the students to a restaurant for lunch.

Students who believe that they have fulfilled the responsibilities for a level of privilege should assume responsibility for filling out an Application for Privilege. The

privilege application must be completed and submitted by the last day of the quarter. A teacher will assign privilege status based on the

requirements the student has met. Student may not receive privilege level he/she applied for.

*Note – Music containing references to sex, drugs, alcohol, explicate language, and illicit activity is not appropriate for school. Music privileges may be revoked for inappropriate music.

MeritsStudents may earn merits for exceptionally good or responsible behavior. These merits may then be "spent" throughout the year. For example, students may use merits to purchase school supplies, time on the computers, and items from the Merit Store.

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Dress Code and Appearance

Proper Attire Student’s attire must be clean, discreet, and modest. Please adhere to the following guidelines -

Clothing should be CLEAN and neat, without stains, rips, or tears.

No tight or form-fitting clothing. No low-cut shirts. No spaghetti-straps or tank tops. Shirt sleeves must

reach the top of the arm. Shirts must also reach up to at least the armpit.

Skirts and/or shorts must reach fingertips when standing.

No offensive or vulgar designs or logos (i.e. skulls, alcoholic beverages, Non Christian music groups, etc.). Commonsense should prevail when determining if clothing is glorifying to God.

Undergarments must not be visible at any time. Students are required to wear properly fitting shoes at

all times.

If a student comes to school in violation of the dress-code guidelines, his or her parents will be called to provide a change of clothing or to take the student home in order to change.  Students who repeatedly violate the dress code may be issued a recess time-out or detention.

P a g e | 31Physical AppearanceStudents are also expected to be clean and neat in physical appearance.

Students are expected to follow basic rules of proper grooming and hygiene, including: bathing and washing hair regularly, hair should be combed and neat, and proper oral hygiene.

Age-appropriate students need to use deodorant on a regular basis.

Physical EducationP.E. classes meet weekly. All 1st-12th grade students are required to participate in P.E. Class; this is a graded course, necessary to advance to the next grade level. No student may be excused from the P.E. course without a doctor's written excuse. Students must be dressed appropriately for P.E. Class

Tennis shoes must be worn Loose T-Shirt Sweatpants or shorts

Students are not required to come to school in P.E. attire but should still bring a change of clothes.

Students who violate the P.E. dress code repeatedly may be issued a recess time-out or detention.

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Monthly Scripture “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11

As a school which strives to teach Biblical principles, we believe it is vital that the students be founded in the Word of God. Scripture tells us that we must have God’s Word in our hearts to follow His leading. Therefore, we believe monthly scripture memory is fundamental to your child’s success.

The following guidelines will apply to learning the monthly scripture:

The chosen passage will be distributed to the students at the beginning of each month.

To assist the students in memorizing, the passage will be recited aloud by the entire school at the beginning of each day, during Morning Exercises.

It is required that the passage be recited from memory to a teacher by the last day of the month.

As an incentive for learning the verse, the students have the opportunity to earn merits for saying the verse early. If the student recites the verse on or before the first day of the month, he/she will receive 300 Merits. If the student recites the verse from the second day of the month through the day preceding the due date, he/she will receive 5 Merits per day before it is due. For example, if student recites the March scripture on March 10th, he/she will receive 105 Merits.

P a g e | 33As previously stated, scripture MUST be recited on or before the last day of the month. As Christians, there is nothing more important for us than the Word of God; therefore, if a student fails to recite the verse by the appropriate time, consequences will be given.

Student will have no privilege status until verse is quoted.

Beginning the second day of the following month, student will receive a full recess time-out or detention every day until the verse is said. They will also be required to spend time writing the scripture verse.

General Rules & Information

Books/Magazines/Music/Media/Misc. ItemsBooks, magazines, music, and movies must be approved by

the Teacher upon arrival at school or they will be confiscated.

Students are not allowed to bring video games, personal computers, or any other electronic devices unless special permission is given. If

these items are brought to school without permission, they will be confiscated until the end of the day.

Guns, cigarettes, lighters, matches, knives, laser pointers, and fireworks are not permitted on school property. Such items will be confiscated and not returned to student. Students may

P a g e | 34be suspended for possession of above items on school property or at school functions.

Cellular Phone UseStudents are allowed to have cell phones under the following conditions only:

Phones are to be kept in the "OFF" position at all times.

Phones are to be kept on student’s desk, not on a student's person.

Phones may be used only in cases of extreme emergency (e.g. an accident) or when a student is given specific permission by a staff person.

Closed Campus Policy SVFA has a closed-campus policy. Students may not leave school grounds during school hours without permission. For courtesy’s sake, visitors are asked to call ahead for admittance into the building.

FinancesA Fee Schedule, which details all fees for the school year, is available from the school office.

A statement will be sent home in the Take Home Folder at the end of each month. Payment is due by the 15th.

If for any reason you are unable to make your monthly payment, please call the Administrator to make other arrangements for payment.

P a g e | 35If for any reason you should withdraw your child from school, or if we would ask you (for disciplinary reasons) to withdraw your child, all moneys paid, including curriculum fee, registration, and tuition are non-refundable. Parents will be responsible for tuition balance for remaining school year.

SVFA reserves the right to use funds generated by school fees in any way we deem appropriate or necessary.

Academic records will not be forwarded to another school until any outstanding balance on the account is paid in full.

"Hands off" RuleExcept for supervised contact sports, students should maintain an appropriate distance (usually a minimum of six inches) from other students at all times. No physical contact will be allowed between members of the opposite sex. Demerits may result, depending on the severity of the offense.

BreakfastBreakfast is available before the school day, from 7:45AM to 8:10 AM. Items include, but are not limited to, bagels, toast, cereal, fruit, pop tarts, cocoa, etc. The prices range from $.10 to $1.00. Hot breakfast is available to order once a week.

LunchIt is the parent’s responsibility to provide lunch for their child.

P a g e | 36As a courtesy to our students, SVFA offers Pizza Days (Tuesdays) and Hot Lunch (Fridays). This is optional and should be considered a privilege. Menus will be sent home by Friday of the preceding week.

Pizza Menu and payment should be turned in by Tuesday at 8:15AM. Any form not received with payment by Tuesday morning will not be counted for ordering, therefore, student should not expect to receive Pizza.

Hot Lunch is provided by the Salvation Army, so we ask that forms should be filled out and returned with payment by Tuesday, to give the Hot Lunch Coordinator an accurate count. Any form not received with payment by Tuesday will not be counted; therefore, student should not expect to receive Hot Lunch.

Medical guidelines No staff members will be allowed to administer any medicines without parent authorization in writing. All medicines must be kept and administered by staff. Any student taking daily prescribed medication that must be administered during the school day must bring the medication in the original prescription bottle with correct labeling and dosage. Such medications must be turned in to staff members to be distributed at appropriate time.

P a g e | 37School PropertyDefaced, missing, or broken property will be replaced at the offending student's expense. The charge will be added to family’s account, and payment is expected with the next monthly payment. Parents will be notified of charge immediately.

SearchesSVFA reserves the right to search a student's person and belongings when we have reason to suspect a student possesses an unapproved item. A search may be conducted without the student's or parent's permission. Registration of a student constitutes parental consent to such searches. Searches may be made of, but not limited to: automobiles, backpacks, purses, pockets, lockers, offices, cell phones, and persons. Searches will be done by staff and will not violate standards of Christian modesty.

If Administration suspects the use of illegal drugs by a student, parents will be contacted and may be asked to pay for a drug test. Refusal to submit to a test or failure to pass the test will result in immediate expulsion without refund of fees.