Algoma Christian School
Not to us, Oh Lord, not to us, but to your name be the glory. Psalm 115:1
Student Handbook
2014 – 2015
P O Box 220
14471 Sparta Avenue
Kent City MI 49330
Phone: (616) 678-7480 or 1-800-205-7411 Fax (616) 678-7484
Parent/Student Statement of Agreement
This Student Handbook is designed to provide guidance about the school’s standards and expectations for teachers, students, and parents. It is reviewed and approved annually by the Board and distributed to each family by email, and it is posted online at Each family is asked to review the standards with their children as is appropriate. The Table of Contents is hyperlinked to each section for easy navigation. The form below indicates your agreement to support these standards and should be signed by all parents and also by all students in grades six through twelve. Please return this signed page to the main office.
As partners in education with ACS, we, the parents pledge to:
- Understand the contents of this handbook and support the school’s policies and procedures.
- Assume full responsibility for faithfully praying for ACS and its personnel.
- Assume full responsibility for faithfully paying tuition and fees or making alternate arrangements in times of financial difficulty.
- Seek to biblically resolve all conflict that may arise between my family and the personnel of ACS (Matthew 18:15-17) and to avoid talking to others about the problem until speaking to those in authority.
PK-5 Students’ Names: ______
______
Parent/Guardian (Print) Parent/Guardian (Print)
______
Parent/Guardian (Sign) Date Parent/Guardian (Sign) Date
Secondary Student’s Name: ______
Secondary Student’s Signature: ______Date: ______
Secondary Student’s Name: ______
Secondary Student’s Signature: ______Date: ______
Secondary Student’s Name: ______
Secondary Student’s Signature: ______Date: ______
LIST OF CHANGES
p. 11 High School Graduation credit requirements
p.15 Determination of Valedictorian and Salutatorian
p. 16-17 Dual Enrollment (No tuition reimbursement—state funded)
p. 17 Plagiarism consequences
p. 23 Dress Code—holes in clothing
p. 28 Senior Trip participation requirement
*NOTE: All changes from the previous year’s handbook are in bold type
Student Handbook2014-15
Table of Contents
Handbook
I. HISTORY & PHILOSOPHY
1. Mission
2. Purpose
3. Statement of Faith:
4. Philosophy of Education
5. Founding Principles
6. Code of Ethics
II. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
1. Admissions
2. Visitors on Campus
3. Financial Policies
4. Emergencies
5. Communications
6. Health & Medical
7. Medications
8. Change in Marital Status
9. ACS Service Hours
10. Reporting Suspected Child Abuse
III. ACADEMICS
1. Elementary Curriculum PreK-5
2. Middle School Curriculum, 6-8
3. High School Graduation
4. Grading Scale
5. Student Supplies
6. Homework
7. Academic Honors
8. Promotion
9. Eligibility for Extra-curricular Activities
10. Work Release /Internship
11. Dual Enrollment
12. Plagiarism
IV. TRANSPORTATION
1. Driving to School
2. Riding the Bus
V. STUDENT LIFE
1. Conduct
2. Sports Spectators
3. Dress Code
4. Formal Dress Code
5. Library
6. Party Invitations (K-8)
7. Holiday Observances
8. Harassment
9. Violence and Threats
10. Use of Technology at School
11. Senior Participation on Senior Trip
VI. DISCIPLINE
1. Detention
2. Suspension
3. Expulsion
4. Probation
VII. ATTENDANCE
1. Loss of Credit
2. Excused Absence
3. Pre-arranged (planned) Absences
4. Unexcused Absences
5. Tardy
6. Hall Traffic
7. Leaving Early
8. Lost & Found
VIII. SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY
1. Purpose of the Policy
2. Scope of the Policy
3. Prohibited Substances
4. Prescription drugs and other medications
5. Implementation and enforcement
6. Refusal to submit to tests or searches
7. Consequences
IX. APPENDIX
I. HISTORY & PHILOSOPHY
Algoma Christian School (ACS) is an independent, non-profit corporation. It is non-denominational in structure and is not tied directly or indirectly to any church or denomination. It is governed by a self-perpetuating board of 6 to 12 members who serve for 3-year terms. The board chooses members for the board from those individuals who have shown an interest in the school and have been involved in its ministry. Some members are also elected by the parent body to a one year term of service. The board’s duties are to establish school policy and help in some areas of operation. This is accomplished by the use of committees. A board member acts as a liaison between these committees and the school board. School parents function as committee members. The daily operation of the school is the responsibility of the Administrator.
Algoma Christian School is unique in its dependence on volunteerism and receiving of financial gifts. The tuition charged covers only a portion of the costs involved in providing Christian education.
1. Mission
By God’s grace, ACS seeks to assist Christian families and churches in nurturing, training, and discipling their children. The summary version of this mission is, “Helping families make disciples.”
2. Purpose
ACS is an educational ministry that places God’s truth as central to all knowledge. It is also an institution that is committed to teaching children how to live for Jesus Christ. The school attempts to prepare young people for living in this complex society by using a balanced perspective of both biblical and academic knowledge. It is intended that students will become well rounded socially, mentally, physically, and spiritually.
3. Statement of Faith:
3-1We believe the Bible to be the only inspired, infallible, authoritative Word of God. (II Timothy 3:16, II Peter 1:20-21)
3-2We believe that there is one God (I Cor.8:6, Eph. 4:6), eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18, II Cor.13:14, Matt. 28:19.)
3-3We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:1-14), in His virgin birth (Matt. 1:18-25), in His sinless life (Heb. 4:15, II Cor. 5:21), in His miracles (John 2:11, 3:2), in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood (I Peter 2:24, 3:18), in His bodily resurrection (Acts 2:24, 10:40), in His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Matt. 16:19), and in His personal visible return in power and glory (Luke 21:27.)
3-4We believe that man was created by God in His own image (Gen. 1:27) , that he sinned and thereby incurred physical, spiritual, and eternal death (Rom. 3:12-20). Consequently, all human beings are born with a sinful nature and by choice are therefore under condemnation (Rom. 1:20, Eph. 3:22).
3-5We believe that those who repent and forsake sin and trust Jesus Christ as Savior are regenerated by the Holy Spirit (Acts 3:19, Col 2:13) and become new creatures, delivered from condemnation and receive eternal life (II Cor. 5:17.)
3-6We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (John 14:17, I John 2:27.)
3-7We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life, and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation (Acts 24:15, 3:8, Luke 16:22-26.)
3-8We believe that heaven and hell are definite places. (II Cor. 5:1; Mt. 10:28)
3-9We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (I Cor.1:10. John 17:21.)
3-10We believe in the literal interpretation of the Book of Genesis in the description of creation. We believe that the world and everything in it was created in six days. We further believe that these were literal 24-hour days, and that there were no evolutionary processes active. We believe that every species of plant, animal, bird, and fish were created in a complete form. While mutations and the environment have modified species over time, these species were complete in the original creation. We further believe that man was also created as a complete and perfect being unlike all other created beings. He is not a descendent of any other species that God created.
4. Philosophy of Education
Based on our doctrinal statement, we believe that the philosophy of education must contain these points:
4-1God is the creator and sustainer of all things and the source of all truth. Therefore, we believe the education process must base itself in God and the revelation of His Word (Romans 11:33-36).
4-2The Bible is the complete and final revelation of God concerning all matters of faith, truth, and practice, therefore, all teaching must consider the goals and commands of Scripture (John 17:17).
4-3The home is the God-given institution for the training of children. Therefore, the school must be an extension of that home to assist the parents in the awesome responsibility of raising Christian children in a godless society (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
4-4Man, created by God as good, has by deliberate choice gone into sin and as such is destined for Hell. God has intervened through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ to provide those who commit themselves by faith to Him with eternal life, therefore, the school should teach Christ as the only way to a personal relationship with God (Genesis 1:26 & 27, Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23).
4-5The Holy Spirit reveals truth through the Bible and enables the individual to understand it. Therefore, all those involved in the educational process must be dependent on Him (John 16:13).
5. Founding Principles
It is important for us to have some guiding principles as we build ACS. To insure that we always keep in mind the reasons for our existence, we have defined the following principles, which prompted our school to be formed:
5-1Christ and His truth must be central in all areas of education and student life.
5-2Christian education should be available to everyone and the school should strive to not exclude anyone who truly wants Christian education for their children.
5-3Quality education at the least possible cost should be available.
5-4Parents have the God-given right to determine what is best for their children. Therefore, the parents must have a choice as to where their children will be educated.
5-5A disciplined atmosphere is a key to effective teaching and a disciplined student is a key to effective education. Therefore, the discipline policy of the school will be strictly enforced.
5-6Christian education is not the right of any given denomination and therefore, the school must strive to be Christian in the truest biblical sense, but non-denominational in its approach to those doctrines that separate fundamental denominations.
5-7Patriotism is teaching our children the scriptural truth that government is established by God and that the believer is responsible to obey it (Romans 13:1-7, Titus 3:1, Peter 2:13, 14) except in extreme circumstances (Acts 5:29). This is best accomplished by emphasizing the positive aspects of our nation and the opportunities and freedoms it gives all believers.
6. Code of Ethics
6-1Submission to Authority: Recognizing God as the power by which all authority exists, we will be subject to the governing authorities of our land, as long as it does not conflict with God’s authority as revealed to us through the Bible.
6-2Dignity of Man: Since all are made in the image of God, we choose to respect and honor all people regardless of their age, race, sex, ethnicity, social status, or socio-economic condition. We, therefore, will be non-discriminatory and non-denominational in our practices, without compromising on biblical standards. We also choose to display the dignity of man through a spirit of service that considers others better than ourselves (Phil. 2:3).
6-3Family Values: Recognizing that God has established the institutions of marriage and family, we seek to follow biblical teaching in our ethical practices. Our teachings will promote God-centered, monogamous marriage as well as the biblical roles of husbands and wives. We seek to support, not usurp, the Christian family.
6-4Fiscal Responsibility: Knowing that God has called us to be faithful stewards of our resources, we will pay all creditors promptly, operate our finances with accountability and integrity, and not enter into frivolous lawsuits, but pledge ourselves to Christian arbitration. We expect the same from the families with whom we partner.
6-5Nurture: In our desire to make disciples for Christ, we will make our organization a place of nurture for students and staff. We will encourage all in godly, Christ-like living, hold them accountable for their actions, help them through their failures, and continue to encourage them to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.
II. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
1. Admissions
1-1ACS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin.
1-2The following age requirements must be met in order to enroll a child in Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten classes at ACS:
- For the 2014-2015 school year, a child may enroll in Pre-Kindergarten if the child is at least 4 years of age on September 1, 2014. A child may enroll in Kindergarten if the child is at least 5 years of age on October 1, 2014.
- For the 2015-2016 school year, a child may enroll in Pre-Kindergarten if the child is at least 4 years of age on September 1, 2015. A child may enroll in Kindergarten if the child is at least 5 years of age on September 1, 2015.
1-3ACS requires that children entering kindergarten have a medical examination before enrollment. These children should also have a vision test, hearing screening, and proof of proper immunizations. A copy of a county birth certificate is also necessary. Most of these requirements are met through a pre-school screening program.
1-4General achievement tests and/or intelligence tests will be given to all new applicants. Any student who does not meet the grade level achievement in major academic areas, such as reading and math, may be required to attend summer school or be tutored privately in order to be admitted. Students with critical academic needs can be admitted if it is felt that our L.R.C. program can meet their needs.
1-5The conduct record of students admitted from other schools must be average or above.
1-6Older children who have developed contempt for the Christian way of life will not be admitted.
1-7All students 6th grade and above are expected to demonstrate a submissive spirit to their parents in regard to attending ACS and sign the Student Statement of Cooperation.
1-8All parents are strongly encouraged to attend parental orientation sessions. They are also strongly encouraged to attend any conferences or special meetings called by the administrator and or teachers.
1-9All students entering ACS will begin under our Academic & Behavioral Probation.
2. Visitors on Campus
2-1ACS has a closed campus. Any person other than students, staff, faculty or administration are considered visitors and must come directly to the office for clearance before going to any part ofthe building. They need to sign-in in the Visitor Book and will be given a “Visitor” pass to wear.
2-2In order to bring a guest to school, a student must request a Visitor’s Pass at least two days prior to the visit. Visits are subject to approval by the administration. Visitors are expected to comply with school dress code and school conduct rules.
3. Financial Policies
3-1Tuition is due the 1st, 9th, 17th or 25th of the month beginning in August for 11 or 10 consecutive months or beginning in July for 12 consecutive months. (July/August through June.)
3-2Any payments received more than 10 days after the due date will be subject to 1.5% per month on the unpaid balance.
3-3The school will outsource its tuition billing and payment service to SMART Tuition. All fees associated with SMART Tuition will be paid by the families. All families who are unable to pay tuition in full by the first business day of September of the current school year must enroll in the SMART program.
3-4Any checks returned to the school for non-sufficient funds will incur an additional $35.00 fee.
3-5All tuition and fees are to be paid up to date by the end of the current school year. Any family who has a remaining balance of more than 25% of the total tuition may not be issued a contract for the coming school year. The Administrator has the authority to make exceptions. The terms and conditions of the exception must be in writing, and must be signed by the school administration and the family member whose signature is on the annual contract. It is the parent’s/guardian’s responsibility to contact the school to resolve any financial issues that negatively impact the family’s ability to meet its financial obligations to the school.
3-6Students may not be permitted to participate in graduation ceremonies until all tuition and fees are paid up to date. The Administrator has the authority to make exceptions. The terms and conditions of the exception must be in writing, and must be signed by the school administration and the family member whose signature is on the annual contract.
3-7Students who enroll late will begin paying tuition from the beginning of the month in which they enter. If a student leaves school for any reason, tuition is due through the month of enrollment.
3-8Application and Registration fees are non-refundable except in special cases.
3-9Student damage to school property will be billed to the parent.
3-10Sports fees are to be paid in advance to play.
3-11Payments received will be applied to the oldest account balance first.
4. Emergencies
4-1TORNADO WATCH: School will be dismissed at the discretion of the administrator. He/she will be kept apprised of the weather conditions and buses will be held if weather conditions are unsafe to have the students on the roads. Parents can pick their children up from school if they desire, however, they must sign their child out in the office.
4-2TORNADO WARNING: If a warning is issued, the children will be placed in as secure a location as we can provide. Please DO NOT attempt to pick up your children during a warning. If the warning is canceled, school will resume as normal. If the warning is lessened to a watch, the above stated policy will be in effect.
4-3SNOW, ICE & FOG DAYS: School closings or delays for snow, ice or fog days will be announced over WCSG, WOOD, and other radio stations that are part of the GRAIL Notification System, plus WOOD-TV, WZZM, and WXMI television stations. ACS will make its own decision regarding closure or delays.
4-4EARLY DISMISSAL: If we dismiss school early, we will make every attempt to contact parents/guardians.
4-5FIRE DRILLS: We will have a minimum of six per school year.
4-6TORNADO DRILLS: We will have a minimum of two per school year.
4-7LOCK DOWN DRILLS: At least two will be conducted each year.
5. Communications
5-1E-mail is probably the most efficient method of contacting teachers or staff members. Staff e-mail addresses are available in the directory or on the web page ( All phone calls for teachers are to be made to the main office. The teachers will return calls during their free time or after school Most of our staff members have voice mailboxes. These numbers will be published in the school phone directory. Our fax number is 678-7484.