Way of Faith Christian Academy Handbook

STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK

2011-2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

MISSION STATEMENT

HISTORY

STATEMENT OF FAITH

PURPOSE AND PHILOSOPHY

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

ACADEMY BOARD

SPIRITUAL LIFE

Chapel
Character Development
Faith in Action
Outreach
Student Retreats

ADMISSIONS AND FINANCIAL POLICIES

Non-Discriminatory Policy
Tuition Assistance
Academic and Health Records
Payment of Accounts
Fees and Tuition
Admission Procedures
Refund Policy
Delinquent Accounts
Withdrawals

ACADEMIC POLICIES

Promotion Policy
High School
Promotion Regulations
Grades 1 through 8
Grades 9 through 12
Diplomas
Grading Standards
Incomplete Grade
Honors
Valedictorian
Salutatorian
Achievement Tests
Curriculum
Homework
Makeup Work
Report Cards
School Term
What Happens After Graduation?

GENERAL POLICIES

Absences and Tardiness
Special Student Trips
Faith in Action
Tardy to Class
Emergency Closing
Fire Drills
Severe Weather Drills
Emergency Preparedness Procedures
Automobiles
Health
Illness at School
First Aid Procedures
Health and Medical Records
Medication
Child Abuse and Neglect
Lost and Found
Lunch
Re-Enrollment
School and Church Facilities
School Office
Telephones
Visitors
Early Pick-Up
Athletes Transportation
Withdrawals and Transfers
Parent Pledge
Custody

CONDUCT PROCEDURES

STUDENT CONDUCT

Classroom Expectations

STANDARDS

Mutual Respect Concerning Physical Bodies
Bullying
Fellow-Girl Relationships
School Property
Electronic Devices, etc.
Cellular Phones
Leaving Grounds
Marking Physical Body
Students' Possessions
Prohibited Items
Tobacco, Drugs, Alcohol, Inappropriate Language, etc.
Body Piercing
Tattooing the Body
After-School Supervision
Honesty
Uniforms
Grooming
Vehicles
Food
Areas and Items Off Limits

REWARD AND DISCIPLINE SYSTEM

Merits
Demerits

PARENT/GUARDIAN STATEMENT OF COOPERATION

GENERAL UNIFORM POLICY

Kindergarten 5 through 6^th Grade
Dress Standards Grades 7-12 (Girls)
Dress Standards Grades 7 through 12 (Boys)
Physical Education Dress Standards

INTRODUCTION

Way of Faith Christian Academy is accredited by ACTS (Association of Christian Teachers and Schools) and is a member of ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International). The Academy is also a member of the Virginia Council of Private Education (VCPE).

Way of Faith Christian Academy as an institution is part of the ministry conducted under the Way of Faith Christian Training Center. It has been launched with the purpose of providing quality education from a Christian prospective while preserving the concept of uniquely caring for each individual student.

With society and world conditions as they are, we realize that the students and their respective parents are challenged at levels not experienced in prior days. We are devoted to contributing the factors which strengthen the whole person as the student prepares for his/her role in life.

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MISSION STATEMENT

• To offer fundamental and required academics at an approved level.

• To take into consideration the potential in each life and to encourage

corresponding pursuits.

• To build up confidence and personal strengths in view of stress, due

both to present conditions as well as demands in the future.

• To provide, as much as possible, opportunities that project into the

public arena.

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HISTORY

Way of Faith Christian Academy was founded by concerned Christians. It's conception was in response to a desire of Christian young people for an alternative to the environment and atmosphere of the public school system. As early as 1971, God began to lay a prayer burden for a Christian school on many hearts in our Northern Virginia area. In January of 1975, the vision for such a school was actively pursued at a meeting of the Way of Faith Fellowship. Definite prayer was offered and preliminary steps were taken.

It is significant that, during these years of intercession, five different parties were directed to the building located at 8800 Arlington Boulevard as a possible site for a Christian school. No way to obtain the property was possible until May 20, 1975, when a series of events resulted in Way of Faith procuring the property. From that point on we watched in awe as, in God's timing, the way was opened for the Academy to begin operation. Through the diligent efforts of potential students and those upon whom God had placed the burden, the facilities at 8800 Arlington Boulevard were dedicated and opened for service to the public on August 20, 1976. The Way of Faith Christian Academy was born!

A need to expand the facilities led to the construction of the Center building, which was dedicated on December 16, 1984. This building provides expanded areas for instruction, activities, and assembly for chapel services. Since the Academy's inception, its graduates have successfully pursued varied activities and careers, including areas of Christian service. Many have completed their higher education in secular universities and Bible colleges.

We praise God for His faithfulness! Truly, "He hath made everything beautiful in His time." (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

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STATEMENT OF FAITH

The Scriptures Inspired: The Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, are verbally inspired of God and are the revelation of God to man, the infallible, authoritative rule of faith and conduct. (II Tim. 3:15-17; I Thess. 2:13; II Peter 1:21).

The One True God: The one true God has revealed Himself as the eternally self-existent “I AM,” the Creator of heaven and earth and the Redeemer of mankind. He has further revealed Himself as embodying the principles of relationship and association as Father, Son and Holy Ghost (Deut. 6:4; Isa. 43:10, 11; Matt. 28:19; Luke 3:22).

The Diety of the Lord Jesus Christ: The Lord Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. The Scriptures declare:

His virgin birth (Matt. 1:23; Luke 1:31, 35).

His sinless life (Heb. 7:26; 1 Peter 2:22).

His miracles (Acts 2:22; 10:38).

His substitutionary work on the cross (I Cor. 15:3; II Cor. 5:21).

His bodily resurrection from the dead (Matt. 28:6; Luke 24:39;

I Cor. 15:4).

His exaltation to the right hand of God (Acts 1:9, 11; 2;33;

Phil. 2:9-11; Heb. 1:3).

The Fall of Man: Man was created good and upright; for God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” However, man by voluntary transgression fell and thereby incurred not only physical death but also spiritual death, which is separation from God (Gen. 1:26, 27; 2:17; 3:6; Rom. 5:12-19).

The Salvation of Man: Man’s only hope of redemption is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Conditions of Salvation: Salvation is received through repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ. By the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, being justified by grace through faith, man becomes an heir of God according to the hope of eternal life (Luke 24:47; John 3:3; Rom. 10:13-15; Eph. 2:8; Tit. 2:11; 3:5-7).

The Evidence of Salvation: The inward evidence of salvation is the direct witness of the Spirit (Rom. 8:16). The outward evidence to all men is a life of righteousness and true holiness (Eph. 4:24; Tit. 2:12).

The Ordinances of the Church: Baptism in Water: The ordinance of baptism by immersion is commanded in the Scriptures. All who repent and believe on Christ as Savior and Lord are to be baptized. Thus they declare to the world that they have died with Christ and that they also have been raised with Him to walk in newness of life (Matt. 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 10:47, 48; Rom. 6:4).

Holy Communion: The Lord’s Supper, consisting of the elements–bread and the fruit of the vine–is the symbol expressing our sharing the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ (II Peter 1:4); a memorial of His suffering and death (I Cor. 11:26); and a prophecy of His second coming (I Cor. 11:26); and is enjoined on all believers “til He comes!”

The Baptism in the Holy Ghost: All believers are entitled to and should ardently expect and earnestly seek the promise of the Father, the baptism in the Holy Ghost and fire, according to the command of our Lord Jesus Christ. This was the normal experience of all in the early Christian Church. With it comes the enduement of power for life and service, the bestowment of the gifts and their uses in the work of the ministry (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4, 8; I Cor. 12:1-31). This experience is distinct from and subsequent to the experience of the new birth (Acts 8:12-17; 10:44-46; 15:7-9). With the baptism in the Holy Ghost come such experiences as an overflowing fullness of the Spirit (John 7:37-39; Acts 4:8), a deepened reverence for God (Acts 2:43; Heb. 12:28), an intensified consecration to God and dedication to His work (Acts 2:42), and a more active love for Christ, for His Word, and for the lost (Mark 16:20).

The Evidence of Baptism in the Holy Ghost: The baptism of believers in the Holy Ghost is witnessed by the initial physical sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit of God gives utterance (Acts 2:4). The spiritual evidence is manifested in the fruits of the life.

Sanctification: Sanctification is an act of separation from that which is evil, and of dedication unto God (Rom. 12:1, 2; I Thess. 5:23; Heb. 13:12). The Scriptures teach a life of “holiness without which no man shall see the Lord” (Heb. 12:14). By the power of the Holy Ghost we are able to obey the command: “Be ye holy, for I am holy” (I Pet. 1:15,16).

The Church and Its Mission: The Church is the Body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of her great commission. Each believer, born of the Spirit, is an integral part of the General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn, which are written in heaven (Eph. 1:22, 23; 2:22; Heb. 12:23). Since God’s purpose concerning man is to seek and to save that which is lost, to be worshipped by man, and to build a body of believers in the image of His Son, the priority reason-for-being of the Assemblies of God as part of the Church is:

To be an agency of God for evangelizing the world (Acts 1:8;

Matt. 28:19, 20; Mark 16:15, 16).

To be a corporate body in which man may worship God

(I Cor. 12:13); and

To be a channel of God’s purpose to build a body of saints being

perfected in the image of His Son (Eph. 4:11-16; I Cor. 12:28;

13:12).

The Assemblies of God exists expressly to give continuing emphasis to this reason-for-being in the New Testament apostolic pattern by teaching and encouraging believers to be baptized in the Holy Spirit. This experience enables them to evangelize in the power of the Spirit with accompanying supernatural signs (Mark 16:15-20; Acts 4:29-31; Heb. 2:3,4), adds a necessary dimension to worshipful relationship with God (I Cor. 2:10-16; 12:13, 14), and enables them to respond to the full working of the Holy Spirit in expression of fruit and gifts and ministries as in New Testament times for the edifying of the body of Christ (Gal. 5:22-26; I Cor. 14:12; Eph. 4:11, 12; I Cor. 12:28; Col. 1:29).

The Ministry: A divinely called and scripturally ordained ministry has been provided by our Lord for the threefold purpose of leading the Church in:

Evangelization of the world (Mark 16:15-20).

Worship of God (John 4:23, 24).

Building a body of saints being perfected in the image of His Son

(Eph. 4:11-16).

Divine Healing: Divine healing is an integral part of the gospel. Deliverance from sickness is provided for in the atonement, and is the privilege of all believers (Isa. 52:4, 5; Matt. 8:16, 17; Jam. 5:14-16).

The Blessed Hope: The resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ and their translation together with those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord is the imminent and blessed hope of the Church (I Thess. 4:16, 17; Rom. 8:23; Tit. 2:13; I Cor. 15:51, 52).

The Millenial Reign of Christ: The second coming of Christ includes the rapture of the saints, which is our blessed hope, followed by the visible return of Christ with His saints to reign on the earth for one thousand years (Zech. 14:5; Matt. 24:27, 30; Rev. 1:7; 19:11-14; 20:1-6). This millennium will bring the salvation of national Israel (Ezek. 37:21, 22; Zeph. 3:19, 20; Rom. 11:26, 27) and the establishment of universal peace (Isa. 11:6-9; Psalms 72:3-8; Mic. 4:3,4).

The Final Judgment: There will be a final judgment in which the wicked dead will be raised and judged according to their works. Whosoever is not found written in the Book of Life, together with the devil and his angels, the beast and the false prophet, will be consigned to everlasting punishment in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, which is the second death (Matt. 25:46; Mark 9:43-48; Rev. 19:20; 20:11-15; 21:8).

The New Heavens and the New Earth: “We, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness” (II Pet. 3:13; Rev. 21, 22).

We recognize that basic teachings are left to other church ministries and the home.

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PURPOSE AND PHILOSOPHY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

The purpose of Christian school education in our day is to light the torch of a Bible-centered, Christ-honoring education and to extend it to the next generation. Leaders of the past have supported this kind of training. George Washington is quoted as saying, "True religion affords government its surest support. The future of this nation depends on the Christian training of the youth. It is impossible to govern without the Bible." To this we add the words of Abraham Lincoln: "The philosophy of the classroom is the philosophy of the government in the next generation."
This Academy stands without apology for the Gospel and for the highest standards of morality and Christian behavior. The chief objective and motivation includes training youth in the highest responsibility, personal integrity, good citizenship, and Christian leadership. The primary purpose of Christian school education is to help parents fulfill the counsel of that wise and powerful proverb that says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6).
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GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

1	A Christian school supplements and continues the training initiated in the Christian home.
2	A Christian school’s atmosphere of love and respect between child and teacher will develop in the child an understanding of his value to God. Therefore, our aims are:
3		to provide a curriculum stressing basic skills which provide a foundation for further achievement,
4		to project the goal for each child to have a fulfilled life in Christ, and
5		to maintain a staff which is committed to work with parents in training the whole child--spiritually, academically, emotionally, and physically.

The Administration is eager to maintain communication with parents as we endeavor to achieve our goals and objectives.
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ACADEMY BOARD

The members of the Way of Faith Christian Academy Board have the responsibility for the establishment, guidance, and spiritual headship in the operation of the school. The Board is the policy-making body of the school, with the school Administrator and/or Principal having the responsibility for the implementation of the Board's policies.
The Board constitutes the authority for the Academy's policy, programs, and academic development. The policies established, the personnel employed, and the manner in which the Board functions affects the daily life of the staff, faculty, and students. Responsibility ultimately rests upon the Board for directing the growth and quality of the Way of Faith Christian Academy's programs.
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SPIRITUAL LIFE

CHAPEL

Chapel time is set aside each week for all students as a means of presenting the tenets of the Christian faith and to develop strong moral character based upon biblical preaching. Our intent is that this required activity would make each child aware of his/her personal accountability to God. Each chapel is designed for the age-appropriateness of the child. The chapel day for elementary school is Thursday; upper grades meet on Wednesday.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

“Sow an idea, and you reap an act, sow an act, and you reap a habit, sow a habit, and you reap a character, sow a character, and you reap a destiny.”
A vital part of our children’s lives is the school experience. This is where they spend most of their day. Along with the family, teachers, friends, parents, and principal all make a contribution to the ethical lives of our children. It is our goal to see God mold the lives of our children as He develops His character traits within their lives-character traits such as: Responsibility, Perseverance, Caring, Self-discipline, Citizenship, Honesty, Courage, Fairness, Respect, Integrity, and Patriotism.

FAITH IN ACTION

“Helping Students Develop A Heart For God’s Mission.”
The aim of Faith In Action is to help encourage and direct our student body to be selflessly involved in God’s mission to the world. God calls our students—no matter how young they are—to be His witnesses, to put faith in action. It is our desire to give our students frequent opportunities to minister to others in the name of Christ through community ministry programs and short-term mission trips.
Mission/Evangelism - Go Ye Into our Families, Community, and the World has been initiated in the Academy. Every Monday the student body prays collectively for a Family member, such as fathers and mothers; a Community organization, such as firemen, policemen, doctors; and the World, such as mission projects, missionaries, orphanages, and American soldiers overseas. It is a great blessing for the staff and students as we join our hearts and voices together in one accord in prayer.

OUTREACH

Outreach ministry is an integral part of the Academy life at Way of Faith. The choral groups have opportunity for presentations in public settings. Visitations are made to local nursing homes, retirement homes, area hospitals, and malls. These outings offer opportunities for sharing the word, music, and testimony to the residents.
Food Drives, Clothing Drives and Toy Drives are also important avenues of our outreach. Sharing food, clothing and toys with local ministries in the Washington, D.C. area has been a blessing to our Academy students. Such activities promote times for spiritual growth as students care for others.

STUDENT RETREATS

Located on the Shenandoah River, Mount Zion Retreat Center offers a beautiful facility for retreats. Students are afforded the opportunity to occasionally gather in this peaceful setting to seek the presence of God and to encourage one another in their growing relationship with Christ. Mature men and women of God present anointed teachings to the students at this critical time in their lives, enabling them to make positive decisions which will shape their future.
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ADMISSIONS & FINANCIAL POLICIES

NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY

The Academy has no rule, regulation, or policy established for the purpose of discriminating against any person because of gender, race, color, national or ethnic origin.

TUITION ASSISTANCE

Under certain circumstances tuition assistance may be awarded following the submission of a PSAS (Private School Aid Service) form.

ACADEMIC AND HEALTH RECORDS

Academic records and references from the school previously attended are required. All Way of Faith Christian Academy students must have on file in the school office, according to State Health Department requirements, a health record showing proof of immunization. Students participating in the sports program must also have a recent physical examination by a licensed physician before being allowed to participate in sports activities.

PAYMENT OF ACCOUNTS

All accounts must be paid in full before a student can receive a graduation diploma, report card, or transfer of any records to another school or individual. ALL FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS SHOULD BE MADE AT THE SCHOOL’S MAIN OFFICE TO INSURE PROPER CREDIT. However, accounts may be paid by mail to the following address:
Way of Faith Christian Academy 8800 Arlington Blvd. Fairfax, VA 22031

FEES AND TUITION

Registration Fee:			$125.00 1^st child
			$ 75.00 each additional child

Annual Tuition and Materials Fee:				K-5 thru 12^th Grade:
				$6,500 first child
				$6,250 second child
				$6,000 third child
				$5,750 fourth child

For your convenience, the annual tuition may be divided into ten (10) monthly payments. Monthly payments are due the first of each month (August 1 through May 1). A discount is offered for payment in full.

Stanford Achievement Tests requirement for all students - Cost $35.00 per student.

Sports Participation Fee: - $45.00 per sport

SCHOOL POLICY: Transcripts and report cards will not be released until all fees have been paid in full.

ADMISSION PROCEDURES

1	After reviewing the Enrollment Packet, call for an appointment if you are interested in enrolling your child(ren) in the Academy.

2	Preparation for the interview:
	a.	Bring student’s report card or transcript of grades, birth certificate, and medical records with you.
	b.	Allow 20-30 minutes for the interview and a tour of the facility.

3	Be sure student is in attendance with you.

4	Pay the registration fee.

5	Complete the other necessary forms (provided at the time of acceptance)

6	Make all necessary financial arrangements.

Students from Kindergarten through 12^th grade must have a physical exam and Immunization Record before admittance. A copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport is also required of all students. Proof of guardianship/custody may also be required.

REFUND POLICY

The policy of the school is not to refund the Registration Fee.

DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS

All tuition accounts must be paid in full on the first day of each month. If tuition payment has not been received, a grace period may be extended. If payment is still not received and no contact has been made to the Academy Office, this will result in the removal of the child(ren) from school.

WITHDRAWALS

After enrollment, arrangements for withdrawal must be made through the Academy Office. Tuition will be pro-rated; all other fees are non-refundable. Please notify the Academy Office of the withdrawal date at least one week in advance.
On the day of withdrawal, we would ask that the parent be present and stop by the Academy Office to be sure all fees are paid, and to return to the school: textbooks, library books, etc. Once all of these items are taken care of, scholastic records and any refunds will be authorized to be released.
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ACADEMIC POLICIES

	To receive a High School Diploma, 26 credits are required for graduation.

				Units of Credits
		English		4
		Mathematics		3
		Laboratory Science		3
		History and Social Sciences		4
		Health and Physical Education		2
		Fine Arts or Practical Arts		1
		Electives		5
		Bible		4

Electives: Art, Music, Life Skills, Public Speaking, Spanish, Student/Teacher’s Aide, Computer, Creative Writing, Nutrition, Current Events, and Distant Education courses to provide High School electives.

PROMOTION POLICY

High School

The minimum requirements for promotion in high school grades are as follows:

To be placed in grade :			The Student must :
	9		Be promoted from the 8^thgrade
	10		Earn 5 Credits
	11		Earn 10 Credits
	12		Have a planned program providing for sufficient credits to insure graduation the following June

PROMOTION REGULATIONS

Grades 1 through 8

(1)	If a student fails one or two of the Core Courses, he/she will have to go to summer school and pass before he/she is promoted to the next grade. (Core Courses: Math, English, History, Science, Bible)
(2)	If a student fails three major courses, he/she will have to repeat the grade he/she is currently in.
(3)	All major courses have to be passed before a student can be promoted to the next grade.

Grades 9 through 12

Any course required for graduation that is failed must be made up by a method approved by the Administration, or the course must be repeated to gain credit. Summer school and/or independent studies may substitute for courses required for a current student. All costs incurred in repeating a course are the responsibility of the parents.

DIPLOMAS

A diploma will be issued to students at graduation in accordance with the number of required credits accumulated from the ninth grade through the twelfth grade.

GRADING STANDARDS

The following lists state the grading standard to be used in the school program.
Grades Kindergarten thru 3^rd
		E	Excellent
		S+	Very Good
		S	Adequate Understanding
		S-	Less Than Adequate Understanding
		N	Has not Gained Understanding/ Mastery of the Subject
		NA	Not Applicable

Grades 4 thru 12
	A	Excellent	93-100	4.0
	A-	Excellent	90-92	3.7
	B+	Very Good	87-89	3.3
	B	Good	83-86	2.7
	B-	Good	80-82	2.7
	C+	Average	77-79	2.3
	C	Average	73-76	2.0
	C-	Average	70-72	1.7
	D+	Poor	67-69	1.3
	D	Poor	64-66	1.0
	F	Failing - Below	64	0
	I	Incomplete	0	0

INCOMPLETE GRADE

An "Incomplete" ("I") is given only when the teacher feels there are justifiable reasons for the work to be late. Such a grade changes to "F" if the work is not completed within two weeks.

HONORS

Way of Faith Christian Academy recognizes the outstanding achievement and effort of its students. An Honor Roll has been established to provide the appropriate reinforcement for the student whose work demonstrates superior achievement and/or effort.
Receiving honors is based on more than academics. Honor Students must be the role models in conduct, effort, ethics, good citizenship, responsibility, honesty, and character. The following awards are granted to our graduates at graduation:
(1) The Distinguished Christian High School Student Award, honors exemplary seniors from each of the following categories - Academics, Leadership, Fine Arts, Athletics, and Christian Service. These awards are granted from the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).
(2) The President’s Education Awards, recognizes seniors who have achieved high academic goals by their hard work and dedication to learning. Students are eligible for one of two honors: the President’s Award for Educational Excellence or the President’s Award of Educational Achievement. Certificates will be granted signed by the President of the United States and the Secretary of Education.
(3) Way of Faith Christian Academy Award for Academic Excellence, gives recognition to seniors who have maintained a 95 grade point average or higher at the completion of each High School academic year.

VALEDICTORIAN
A student receiving the highest accumulative grade point average from the 9^th thru 12^th grade in his/her graduation class – Grade Point Average of 95 or higher.

SALUTATORIAN
A student receiving next to the highest accumulative grade point average from 9^th thru12^th grade in his/her graduation class.

ACHIEVEMENT TESTS

Stanford Achievement Tests are administered to students in Kindergarten through the 12th grades each spring for a minimal cost to parents. Appointments may be arranged through the Academy Office for parents wishing to discuss achievement test scores.
The Stanford Achievement Tests are intended to assess the academic achievement of the students. The tests reveal possible academic strengths and weaknesses and appraise the student's ability to respond to questions measuring concepts and subject matter commonly taught at the grade level being tested.

CURRICULUM

Academic standards are maintained at or above the national norm. Offering Kindergarten through Grade 12 classes, the Academy respects the individuality of each student and realizes that God creates in them differing rates and varying means of learning. Competent, loving-experienced teachers work with students on a low student-teacher ratio to help them establish a strong foundation in a subject before moving to its more complicated concepts and precepts.
All subject matter is presented in harmony with the Bible. The A Beka Curriculum, a Bible-based program developed by Pensacola Christian School in Florida, with a heavy emphasis on English, reading and mathematics, is used with the supplemental aid of the Saxon Curriculum supplying the Math textbooks for 5^th grade through the 12^th grade Spelling books for some grade levels. Additionally, we employ Distant Education courses to provide High School Electives. Curriculum scheduling for grade level studies includes those specified by the Virginia Department of Higher Education.
The school provides an atmosphere conducive to learning that Jesus Christ is Lord of all, including our education. "For by Him were all things created . . . and by Him all things consist . . . that in all things He might have preeminence" (Colossians 1: 16-18).

HOMEWORK

Way of Faith Christian Academy believes that homework is a vehicle to teach good study habits, organizational skills, self discipline, and responsibility. Homework is an evaluation tool for teachers and is an indicator that materials may need to be re-taught. It is designed to provide reinforcement for material presented in class.
We believe homework is an integral part of the school program, which will aid students in advancing their studies. Students are expected to complete homework assigned. Parents are expected to monitor their child's homework activity.
If homework is not turned in on time, students will receive a zero unless there is a significant reason stated on a note and signed by parent/guardian. Nevertheless, parents will receive a call from the Administration and late homework will be required to be turned in.

MAKEUP WORK FOR EXCUSED AND UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

During a student's excused absence, parents may request homework assignments. Please be sure such requests are made before noon to allow the teacher time to gather the needed materials. If a request is made, the appropriate assignment will be left for pickup in the Academy Office. The individual teacher will work with the child and/or the parent as to what assignments have been missed and need to be made up. Unless unusual circumstances are involved, it is best to make up work within two days after returning to school. In the event of a longer illness or situation, the student will be given additional time to complete missed work if needed.
For unexcused absences (either full day or part of a day), students being allowed to make up work (including tests and quizzes) is at the discretion of the teacher.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are distributed at the end of each nine-week term.

SCHOOL TERM

The school operates on a nine-month basis divided into four terms of nine weeks each.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER GRADUATION

Having begun a good work in the heart of a Christian young person, it is our belief that God would desire that the work be continued in their training. Throughout their school years, students will be introduced to the opportunities and programs of Christian colleges and universities.
Way of Faith Christian Training Center is authorized as a Global University Study Center. Global University is a worldwide distance education provider bringing tools for evangelism, discipleship, and training to more than 160 countries around the world. Way of Faith Christian Training Center Study Center for Global University offers a unique opportunity for Christian students to prepare for a life of service to Christ in the modern world. Global University Study Center courses offer students the opportunity to: (1) Continue serving the local church, family, and community; (2) Complete the requirements for a Bachelor’s degree in less than four years and at a substantially reduced cost; and (3) Participate in ministry projects, trips, and outreach.
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GENERAL POLICIES

ABSENCES AND TARDINESS

A.M. Arrival

Way of Faith Christian Academy operates according to the regulations of Fairfax County and the State of Virginia in which a certain amount of actual teaching time is required. We meet this requirement by beginning our school day at 8:00 a.m. and continuing to 3:00 p.m. When repeated late arrivals occur, the result is the loss of actual teaching hours, the loss of attention due to the disturbance involved, and the need to repeat material presented. Due to these factors, habitual tardiness is unacceptable.
Students need to arrive at the Academy no later than 7:45 a.m. The bell will ring at 7:50 a.m. and students will be taken to their classrooms. Classes begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. When a student arrives after 7:45 a.m., he/she will proceed to the Academy Office to receive a pass to enter the classroom. When a student arrives after 8:00 a.m., he/she will receive a blue CLASS PASS marked either “tardy-excused” or “tardy-unexcused.” A note from the parent must accompany a “tardy” student if he/she is to be considered excused. To be “excused,” the student must have a note with a valid excuse (listed below). If a note does not accompany a “tardy” student or the reason is invalid, he/she will be considered “unexcused.”
Students in Junior High (7^th & 8^th) and High School (9^th thru 12^th) must have a certain number of classroom hours in a subject before credit will be granted. If tardiness continues and classroom hours are missed, credit may not be granted and the student may have to repeat the subject the following year. Younger children are equally in jeopardy of being held back when they miss crucial classroom teaching time.
When a student accumulates 3 unexcused tardy events or three unexcused absences, the Academy office will phone the student’s parents. If the tardiness continue, a letter will be sent to the home reminding parents that county and state laws require regular and timely school attendance. If the on-time attendance does not improve, an evaluation by the Adminis-tration will be made regarding the situation. The Administration will determine to what extent the attendance will affect the student’s grades and whether the student's promotion promotion to the next grade level will be affected.

Reasons for Excused Absences/Tardiness:

	Illness of Student			Death in family
	Medical/Dental Appointment			Religious Observances
	School-sponsored field trips			Suspension
	Approved pre-arranged absence			Major traffic incident

Reasons for Unexcused Absences/Tardiness:
	No note within 48 hours of absence/tardy
	Oversleeping
	Missing ride to school
	Babysitting
	Completing homework/project/studying at home
	Normal rush hour traffic

Excessive Absences

A secondary school (7^th-12^th) student missing 15 days or more of classes in major subject areas during a semester may not receive credit for that class unless unusual circumstances warrant permission.

Way of Faith reserves the right to require any student absent in excess of 30 days for the year to be retained in their current grade level the next year.

Special Student Trips

Students may be excused from school for special occasions such as the following: church-sponsored retreats or special trips taken with the family. These special family trips must be cleared in advance with the Administration. The student must do the following:

1	Bring a letter from home signed by the parent(s) explaining the trip. The Administration and staff will approve or disapprove. A copy of the signed letter will be placed in the student’s file and a copy returned to parents. Failure to go through this procedure will lead to unexcused absences for the days missed.

2	If absent for one (1) week or more, make-up assignment sheets will be provided for teachers to complete on a daily basis. Upon returning to school, the make-up assignment sheets will be given to the student. It is the responsibility of the student and his/her parents to get all makeup work to the teacher. Depending on the situation, the student may be asked to stay after school daily until all work is complete. If so, arrangements will be made through the Administration to the parents.

Faith in Action:

Periodically opportunities will arise for short-term mission trips in the United States and abroad. Students desiring to apply are requested to submit a letter from home signed by the parent(s) explaining the reason for their absence. The Administration and staff will approve or disapprove according to the academic and behavioral standing of the student.
During the trip, the student(s) may be requested to keep a journal giving a detailed description of his/her daily activities. In addition, the Administration may require additional work depending on the nature of the mission trip.
If absent for one (1) week or more, make-up assignment sheets will be provided for teachers to complete on a daily basis. Upon returning to school, the make-up assignment sheets will be given to the student. It is the responsibility of the student and his/her parents to get all makeup work to the teacher. Depending on the situation, the student may be asked to stay after school daily until all work is complete. If so, arrangements will be made through the Administration with the parents.

Tardy To Class

Students who change classes or who are on break are considered tardy to class if they are not seated in their classroom seat when the final bell sounds. Teachers are to send tardy students to the Academy Office for an unexcused tardy form before they re-enter class. Student will receive one demerit for each class he/she arrives late to. Three unexcused tardy demerits will result in after school detention.

Emergency Closing

Way of Faith Christian Academy will be following Fairfax County Public Schools in regards to inclement weather delays and closures.
This means that we will be closed when Fairfax County Public Schools are closed AND we will be on a 2-hour delay schedule when the county announces a delay. On 2-hour delay days, school will start at Way of Faith promptly at 10:00 a.m.
Inclement weather conditions for closings will be announced on radio station WTOP and on TV stations 4, 7, and 8.
There may be occasions when there will be no county statement broadcast because of the differences in Way of Faith and Fairfax County school calendars. On those occasions only, calls will be made to parents/guardians providing closing/delayed opening information.

Fire Drills
Fire drills are conducted monthly following the directives of the Fairfax County Fire Department.

Severe Weather Drills
All staff members have received an Emergency Planning Procedure Manual designed for the specific needs of the Academy. Severe weather drills are conducted periodically.

Emergency Preparedness Procedures

The Academy has adopted the procedures of an emergency preparedness program administered by the Fairfax County School Board Department of Regulations and by the Office of Homeland Security of the U.S. Government.

Automobiles

It is a privilege for a student to be able to bring a car to school. The following points are to be complied with:

1.	Each driver should be an example of courteous driving habits.

2.	Students with a driver’s license must register their car in the school office on the first day of school to receive an approved permit.

3.	No students are to be picked up en route going home or coming to school who are not on the permit.

4.	No students are permitted to ride with an approved student driver without written permission from parents of both students and initialed by the Administration.

5.	Cars are to remain parked in the school lot until students leave for the day.

6.	No students may arrive or leave at any time or in any manner that differs from his/her normal procedure without written permission from his/her parents and initialed by the Administration.

It is a rare exception when athletes are permitted to drive to away games or tournaments. If an athlete is to drive to a game, he/she must have written permission from his/her parents prior to departure. No other students may ride with the athletes, unless they have written permission from their parent/guardian and initialed by the Administration.
In any and all cases, the Academy has no responsibility after the automobile leaves the school premises.

7.	Cars are not to be occupied during school hours, nor are the students to sit in parked cars while waiting for school to begin or after school ends.

8.	Permission for any student driver to go to cars during the school day must be obtained from school Administration.

9.	Violation of school speed limits (about 5 mph), careless driving, or any of the above points will result in loss of driving privileges.

Health:

As a health precaution for all concerned, we must require that parents keep children at home if they are sick, have an elevated temperature, or have a contagious illness. Students must be fever-free, diarrhea-free, and vomit-free for 24 hours before returning to school.

Illness at School

Students who are either sick or injured should report to the school office where they will receive care. In case of more serious illness (head injury, bleeding wound, broken bone, fever over 100 degrees), the family will be contacted by the Academy office, and the parents will be required to come to the school to pick up the ill child. Parents need to give the Academy phone number changes as soon as they occur so that immediate contact can be made. Children who are sick must be picked up as soon as possible. While waiting for the parent to arrive, the sick child will remain in the designated area away from other children.

First Aid Procedures

First aid treatment will be administered to stop bleeding, restore breathing, or prevent shock or infection. Parents will then be notified. If they can be consulted immediately, efforts will be made to find out which physician is to be secured or where the child should be taken. This information will be on file on the “Emergency Treatment” form for each student in case the parents cannot be reached. A representative of the school faculty shall stay with the child until the parent assumes responsibility. Any medication taken by mouth will be given only by or on the order of a physician.

Health and Medical Records:

Parents are required to inform the school in writing of any existing condition which may cause a student to be unable to participate in our complete school program. The school should be informed at the beginning of the school year or at the onset of the condition if it occurs during the school year.

EXAMPLES:		Foods to which the student is allergic
		Health problems, making a limited physical education program necessary
		Sight or hearing problems affecting the student's classroom work and seating

Medication:

The school authorization form for taking medication must be filled out by the parent each time a medication needs to be administered at school. The medication and authorization form is kept in the Academy Office. Students are not allowed to take any form of medication at any time or to carry it on their person or in their book bag.
Medication must be kept in original containers for safety purposes
No medication (including aspirin) may be dispensed by school personnel without written parental permission.

Child Abuse or Neglect:

Way of Faith Academy follows state mandates in reporting suspected child abuse or neglect. If a teacher notices anything such as marks, bruises, cuts or neglect in regard to clothing, hair, etc. he/she will bring the matter to the attention of the school Principal. The teacher only observes and reports. They are asked not to question the child. The school Principal will review the situation and make a determination of the possibility of abuse or neglect. If there is evidence to report, the Principal will contact the Director and a report will be made to the appropriate Social Service Agency.

Lost and Found:

There is a lost and found box in the foyer at the entrance of the Academy.

Lunch:

Students are expected to bring a non-refrigerated lunch to school each day. Milk will be provided from the school for a yearly fee.

Re-Enrollment:

Early in the second semester, re-enrollment for fall term for current students is handled on a first-come, first-served basis. The appropriate forms and fees must be completed upon the date of re-enrollment. Re-enrollment may not be granted to students who have unpaid balances on tuition.

School and Church Facilities:

Students who are not involved in school-sponsored activities after school must not loiter around the school and church grounds after 3:45 p.m. Way of Faith will not be responsible for students remaining after 3:45 p.m. who are not involved in school-related activities. Way of Faith provides an After School Bible Club for students whose care-givers cannot pick up their children by 3:45 pm. A fee is charged daily and billed monthly based on actual time of departure. All families of students left at school after 3:45 pm are automatically enrolled as After School Bible Club participants and will be billed on a monthly basis for actual time on the premises.

School Office:

School office hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Telephones:

Students cannot be summoned to the telephone during school hours, but emergency messages will be taken at the office and forwarded to the student. Students are not permitted to use the school phone except in the case of an emergency and when given permission from the school office.

Visitors:

Parents are welcome in the school. When visiting a classroom for any reason, please come to the Academy office first and do not go directly to the classroom. If you wish to talk to your child's teacher, please arrange for a private conference by calling the office. Teachers are instructed to send parents/visitors to the office if prior arrangements have not been made for conferences.
No visiting students are allowed in or around the school during normal school hours of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. No student may bring visitors to school without gaining permission from the Principal, 24 hours in advance of the visit. Guests and visitors will need to come to the office first. If policy is not complied with, visitors will be asked to leave.

Early Pick-Up:

If any students are to be picked up prior to the closing of a school day, please notify Academy office by written note with signature or a phone call. Proper identification may be requested by Academy Administration for the release of any students. THE STUDENT MUST BE SIGNED OUT AT THE ACADEMY OFFICE BEFORE LEAVING THE SCHOOL. Academy staff will get the student(s) out of class and bring them to the waiting parent/guardian.
If any student is to ride home with someone other than the regular pickup person, a written permission slip or phone call from parent/guardian must be turned in to Academy Office prior to departure. NO STUDENT WILL BE RELEASED TO LEAVE THE ACADEMY GROUNDS WITHOUT THIS WRITTEN PERMISSION SLIP OR CALL FROM PARENT/GUARDIAN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO DISMISSAL.

Athletes Transportation:

Athletes are transported to and from all games and tournaments on a bus, or van, or cars owned by Way of Faith Christian Training Center or owned by staff/parents of students in the Academy. All drivers are insured by their own auto insurance company or by Way of Faith Christian Training Center, and all bus drivers have a commercial driver's license. It is a rare exception when athletes are permitted to drive to away games or tournaments.
If an athlete is to drive, he/she must have written permission from his/her parent/guardian prior to departure. No other students may ride with the athlete, unless there is written permission from parent/guardian of the student driving and the student riding.

Withdrawals and Transfers:

Parents wishing to withdraw their child(ren) from school must notify the school office two (2) weeks in advance. Upon withdrawing or transferring, each teacher on the student's schedule must sign the appropriate form (Withdrawal/Transfer), giving grades to date of withdrawal and listing any textbooks not returned, etc.
Upon completion, this form will be returned to the school office at which time the office will either clear or not clear the student's record. Records will not be released until the account is current.

Parent Pledge:

We pledge that, if, for any reason, our child does not respond favorably to the school, we will not try to change the school to fit his/her needs, but will withdraw him quietly and that without delay. (Six weeks are adequate for most students. The one who has not adjusted by the end of twelve weeks should be withdrawn.)

Custody:

Release or visitation of child/children follow carefully designated procedures according to the legality of the situation.
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CONDUCT PROCEDURE

The following list provides the system of discipline:

1.	Classroom Control

2.	Referral to Principal

3.	Referral to Administrator

4.	Referral to Parents

5.	Referral to Board and Administration
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STUDENT CONDUCT

Positive Christian concepts result in happiness in life's total experience. For this reason, the Academy endeavors to establish an atmosphere conducive to learning in a manner which is safe, orderly, and glorifying to God. The purpose of guidelines is not to create a regimented climate, but to avoid confusion concerning school policy. These guidelines insure that students can pursue a Christian education without disruption. Also, teachers' time and energies are freed for teaching the children without having to deal with misconduct. Standards are thus designed to guide the student with love and understanding in each situation. Violations will invoke disciplinary action.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

1.	During devotions, prayer, Bible class or Chapel, students shall maintain an attitude of reverence.

2.	Students must not show disrespect or insolence to a teacher. This includes mimicking or mocking teachers or other students, unsportsmanlike conduct, talking back to teachers, writing or passing personal notes, or whispering during a lesson presentation.

3.	Students should walk and not run in the building. The students should be quiet in the hallways so that other classes will not be unduly disturbed. Students must have a hall pass at all times if they are out of their classroom during class.

4.	Students are to be in their seats when classes begin and are to come prepared to begin work on time. Students may not leave their seat without permission.

5.	Students are to be neat and orderly in their classrooms (no papers dropped on floors, etc.)

6.	All students are expected to complete and turn in all assigned work on time.

7.	Talking without permission or interrupting in class is not allowed.
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STANDARDS

1.	Mutual Respect Concerning Physical Bodies:

	Students must keep their hands off others. This includes fighting, playing with or picking at other students, including social familiarity with the opposite gender. Fighting under any circumstance is not allowed. Horseplay can be injurious to others; it will not be tolerated.

2.	Bullying:

	Bullying is intentional harmful behavior initiated by one or more students and directed toward another student. &NBSP;Bullying exists when a student with more social and/or physical power deliberately dominates and harasses another who has less power. Bullying is unjustified and typically is repeated.

	Forms of Bullying
	A.	Physical: biting, kicking, pushing, hitting, tripping, pulling hair
	B.	Verbal: speaking to or about a person in an unkind or hurtful way.
			sarcasm, teasing, put-downs, name-calling, spreading rumors
	C.	Emotional: behaviors that upset, exclude, or embarrass a person
			nasty notes, exclusion from activities
	D.	Racial: rejection or isolation of a person because of ethnicity
			gestures, racial slurs or taunts, making fun of skin color, food, etc.

	Verbal or physical abuse is not tolerated. Strong disciplinary action will be enforced by the Administration.

3.	Boy-Girl Relationships:

	Admirable boy-girl relationships are encouraged. Students however, must refrain from improper display of physical affection at school and at all school functions.

4.	School Property:

	Student help is solicited in taking care of school property and willful destruction is to be avoided. The damage to or defacing of property will be covered at the offending student's expense.

5.	Electronic Devices, etc.:

	Radios, tape recorders, records, cassettes, iPods, MP3 players, CD players, walkman, computer games, etc. are not allowed in school. If such equipment is found among the student body, the Administration will give the student(s) an opportunity to take the equipment home. If it should reappear, the Administration will keep the equipment and return it to its owner at the close of the school year.

6.	Cellular Phones:

	The Way of Faith Christian Academy will adopt similar codes administered by the Fairfax County School Board concerning cellular phones on school campuses:
	- Cell phones may not be used and must be out of sight in book bags and turned off during the school hours and during after-school Bible Club.
	- Students using cell phones during the school hours or during after-school Bible Club will:
		First Offense:		Be given a warning
		Second Offense:		Phone will be taken and given to parents
	- Phone calls are to be made from the Academy Office. Permission will be granted with discretion.

7.	Leaving Grounds:

	Permission from the office must be secured to leave the school grounds during school hours. Students having permission to leave school grounds must sign out at the Academy Office before leaving.

8.	Marking Physical Body:

	There is to be no marking of any kind by pen, pencil, markers, etc. on anyone's own body or on anyone else. This is strictly prohibited.

9.	Students' Possessions:

	Students are to respect the property of other students. Taking of other students' possessions will not be tolerated, and students found stealing will be sent to the Principal's office for appropriate disciplinary action.

10.	Prohibited Items:

	Items not specifically required for classroom activity are prohibited on the premises, such as: chewing gum, squirt guns, play guns, matches, lighters, knives, playing cards, unauthorized books, magazines, musical instruments (except for orchestra), and the like.

11.	Tobacco, Drugs, Alcohol, Guns, Inappropriate or Foul Language, Obscene Act or Behavior:

	Strong and prompt disciplinary measures will be taken upon any occasion of the use of and/or possession of tobacco, drugs, alcohol, or guns, improper or foul language (written or spoken), obscene act or behavior. Depending on the offence, may it be the first offence or otherwise, the student(s) will be dealt with by suspension (the length of suspension will be determined by the Administration) or the student(s) may be asked to leave the school (this decision will be determined by the Administration and/or Academy Board.)

12.	Body Piercing:

	The piercing of any part of the body is prohibited with the exception of girls wearing pierced earrings (one earring per ear lobe). (No earrings are permitted on boys.)

13.	Tattooing the Body:

	Tattooing of any kind on the body is strictly prohibited.

14.	After-School Supervision:

	All students on school property after 3:45 p.m. must be under appropriate supervision (i.e. coach, teacher, tutor, administration). If students are waiting to attend a sporting event they must wait in the designated areas.

15.	Honesty:

	A character trait that we all admire in human interaction is honesty. To strengthen this principle among the students, disciplinary action will be taken in the event of all forms of academic dishonesty such as cheating on tests, quizzes, exams, homework, and other such assignments. Plagiarism and forgery are, of course, included.

16.	Uniforms:

	All students are to wear the regulation school uniform.

17.	Grooming:

	Hair styles of girls and boys are to be conservative with emphasis on cleanliness and neatness. Hair must not interfere with vision.

	Boys must keep hair neatly trimmed on the sides above the ears and in the back above the collar. Shaving the head or cutting hair close to the head is not appropriate. No earrings are permitted on boys.

	Girls hair color must be natural and the hair must not interfere with vision. Make-up and jewelry for girls are to be of the conservative type. Girls may wear one earring per ear in the lower lobe and one ring per hand.

	Any extreme behavior and appearance is not acceptable.

18.	Vehicles:

	Students' vehicles are to be registered with the Academy Office on the first day of school.

19.	Food:

	All foods and beverages are to be consumed only in the lunchroom and in areas designated at the time. No eating or drinking is allowed in halls or classroom.

19.	Areas and Items Off Limits:
	-Other students' possessions -Teachers' desks, files, cabinets, boxes -Non-Academy offices -Recording studio -Utility rooms; closets; P.E. room -Church Library -Teachers' supply room -Sanctuary and adjacent rooms -Church kitchen
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REWARD AND DISCIPLINE SYSTEM

MERITS

Teachers will implement a system of merit in their individual classrooms.

DEMERITS

1 demerit			Unnecessary talking, out of seat without permission during class teaching time, chewing gum on campus, not in seat when bell rings (tardy - must go to office to receive a pass).

2 demerits			Disturbing the class, unprepared for class (including homework), doing class work not related to the class in session, food taken outside cafeteria, inappropriate touching or offensive touching.

3 demerits			Horseplay, verbal fighting, failure to serve an assigned detention, writing; passing and/or reading notes; continued, deliberate disobedience; frequent argumentative or derogatory remarks; cutting class; repetitive uniform infractions.

5 demerits			Disrespect and insolence, profanity, improper or foul language (written or spoken), cheating, lying, bullying, destruction of property, stealing, disregarding areas and items off limits, writing on the physical body of another person or oneself, drinking, smoking, possession of tobacco, drugs, alcoholic beverages, and obscene act or behavior. (Depending on the offence, may it be the first offence or otherwise, the student(s) will be dealt with by suspension (length of suspension will be determined by the Administration) or the student(s) may be asked to leave the school (this decision will be determined by the Administration and/or Academy Board).

(1)		Demerits will be reported at least daily.

(2)		Depending on the reason for the demerits, a parent conference may be initiated by the Administration.

(3)		Five (5) demerits equal a detention or depending on the offences, the student may be suspended – length of suspension will be determined by the Administration or the student may be asked to leave the school – this decision will be determined by the Administration and/or Academy Board.

(4)		Detention will be after school from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

(5)		The Academy Office will notify the parents if a student has detention.

(6)		If a student exceeds four (4) detentions, a Saturday detention will be assigned. Parents will be responsible to take the student to and from school.

Suspension from school will be determined if an extreme offence has occurred. Suspension will be decided by Administration and/or Academy Board. A conference will be initiated by the Administration with parents, student, Administration and/or Academy Board to determine the length of time for the suspension. When the student returns to the Academy, he/she will be on probation and any subsequent misbehavior places in doubt whether the student can continue to attend the Academy.
It is the reserved right of the Administration and/or Academy Board to determine the necessary discipline of the above offences and to make any changes in the rules and regulations as it seems necessary.
A student may be expelled from the Academy for a serious breach of conduct, and/or repeated problems with behavior or academic performance. In the case of such an offence, the Administration and/or Academy Board will then make a decision as to the removal.
The Administration and/or Academy Board has the authority to ask that the student be removed from the school for non-compliance with the rules and regulations of the school.
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PARENT-GUARDIAN STATEMENT OF COOPERATION

There are two basic reasons for parents to choose a Christian Academy for their children:

(1) The obvious is the academic advantage of a private school with smaller classes and individual attention.

(2) The other is the desire to remove the child from the prevailing social environment of the public school system and provide a profitable atmosphere for the learning process.

Consequently, parents or guardians who elect to assume the tuition and other expenses do so to insure both academic privileges and environment of Judeo-Christian principles. A student who does not respond to this mode of operation, cannot continue in the Academy.

We, as parents (or guardians), who have accepted the challenge to "Train up a child in the way he should go. . ." (Prov. 22:6), affirm that this training is carried on in our home. We shall confidently expect the Way of Faith Christian Academy to confirm that same training.

We, as parents (or guardians), believe that all things should be done decently and in order as the Bible commands (I Cor. 14:40). Therefore, we pledge to have our child arrive on time, dressed in a proper manner, and instructed to cooperate with the standards and policies of the school.

We pledge our loyal support to the school by:

	(1) Praying for the staff and the program,

	(2) Paying the tuition on time, along with fees related to the After School Bible Club program and sports,

	(3) Supporting the spiritual training of chapel, devotions and scripture memory,

	(4) Following through with notices sent home, work to be signed, written explanations for absences or tardiness, since records are of maximum importance in proper operation of the school,

	(5) Paying for any damage our child causes to Academy property, and,

	(6) Attending parent functions, including the parent orientation program.

The ideal condition for any school would be that no dissatisfaction would occur. Until that ideal is reached, and should your child object to some action or circumstance, we will resolve difficulties in the following manner:

	(1) Realize there are reasons for all rules and administrative policies,

	(2) Call the Academy office to arrange for getting all facts,

	(3) Discuss the problem and our concern with school officials as soon as possible, and,

	(4) Exercise care and loving wisdom about discussions with those who are not directly involved.

We hereby invest authority in the school to discipline our child as it deems wise and expedient. This would include the issuing of detention, suspension, and expulsion from the school program. We further agree that we will cooperate and discipline our child in the home as needed. Proverbs 13:24; 19:18; 22:6; 29:15-17; Colossians 3:20; Hebrews 12:6.
There may be need for a decision to remove our child due to a lack of response to the school program. We will do so in a quiet manner. (Six weeks is adequate time for adjustment for most students.)
We do hereby state that we have a satisfactory understanding of the curriculum, equipment, methods, testing, statement of faith, discipline and motives of the school and do pledge to make them our glad-hearted choice.
We pledge our fullest cooperation to keep doctrinal controversy and denominationalism out of the school at all times. (Romans 13:8-10; I Corinthians 12:12-14; 13:1-13; Galatians 5:13, 25, 26; Ephesians 4:1-7).
By no means is the Student-Parent Handbook all-inclusive. Way of Faith Christian Academy retains the right to alter or vary the application of these rules. Every effort will be made by school employees to help students understand what is expected of them.
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PARENT-GUARDIAN GENERAL UNIFORM POLICY

A Christian school has a unique responsibility in the area of personal appearance. Modesty, neatness, and good grooming should characterize the students. Therefore, we maintain the following dress standard:

General Guidelines:
Grooming: Hair styles of girls and boys are to be conservative with emphasis on cleanliness and neatness. Hair color must be natural (no dyed/highlighted hair) and must not interfere with vision. Boys must keep hair neatly trimmed on the sides and back with the length above the collar. Shaving the head is not appropriate. Make-up and jewelry for girls are to be of the conservative type. No nail polish for grade K-5 & K-6; clear, light polish only for grades 7 through 12.
Uniforms: Uniforms should be purchased through the uniform company currently serving the Academy. Boys' slacks may be purchased in local stores (no blue jeans or jeans style or corduroy). Names should be placed on all wearing apparel.

KINDERGARTEN 5 THROUGH GRADE 6

Girls: Kindergarten 5 through 4^th Grades
	JUMPER		Navy/White Plaid below the knee
	BLOUSE		COTTON OXFORD, White, long or short sleeves, Peter Pan collar or button down collar
	SWEATER		Navy Blue Cardigan or Pull Over (V-Neck or Round Neck) (must be worn over white blouse)
	JACKET/COAT		To be consistent with school standards
	SHOES/SOCK		Black or Brown Oxfords (tie or strap)
			White or Black Athletic Shoes
			No Roller Shoes Permitted
			Knee Socks, Anklets, or Tights in navy or white

Girls: 5^th and 6^th Grades
	SKIRT		Navy/Green Plaid below the knee
	BLOUSE		KNIT GOLF SHIRT, White, long or short sleeves,
	SWEATER		Navy Blue Cardigan or Pull Over (V-Neck or Round Neck) (must be worn over white blouse)
	JACKET/COAT		To be consistent with school standards
	SHOES/SOCK		Black or Brown Oxfords (tie or strap) 1 inch heel ONLY
			White or Black Athletic Shoes 1 inch heel ONLY
			No Roller Shoes Permitted
			Knee Socks, Anklets, or Tights in navy or white

Boys: Kindergarten 5 through 6^th Grades
	SLACKS		Navy Blue, with belt (no blue jeans or corduroy)
	SHIRT		KNIT GOLF SHIRT, White, long or short sleeves,
			Shirts are to be worn over a WHITE t-shirt, buttoned, and tucked into pants
	SWEATER		Navy Blue Cardigan or Pull Over (V-Neck or Round Neck) (must be worn over white shirt)
	JACKET/COAT		To be consistent with school standards
	SHOES/SOCK		Black or Brown Tie Oxfords
			White or Black Athletic Shoes (No Roller Shoes Permitted)
			Black or Navy Socks

DRESS STANDARDS GRADES 7-12

Girls: 7^th - 12^th Grades:

Girls are expected to wear conservative hair styles with special emphasis on cleanliness and neatness. Hair color must be natural and must not interfere with vision. Make-up and jewelry are also to be of the conservative type.

	SKIRT		Navy/Green Plaid below the knee

	BLOUSE		KNIT GOLF SHIRT, Navy Blue, long or short sleeves,

	SWEATER		Navy Blue Cardigan or Pull Over (V-Neck or Round Neck) (must be worn over navy shirt)

	JACKET/COAT		To be consistent with school standards

	SHOES		Black or Brown Oxfords (tie or strap) 1 inch heel ONLY
			White or Black Athletic Shoes 1 inch heel ONLY
			No Roller Shoes Permitted
			Hose, Knee Socks, Anklets, or Tights in navy or white

Boys: 7^th - 12^th Grades:

Boys are expected to wear conservative hair styles with emphasis on cleanliness and neatness. Hair must not impair vision and must be kept neatly trimmed on the sides above the ears and back with the length above the collar. Boys are to be cleanly shaven at all times. Shaving the head is not appropriate. Beards, mustaches, and long sideburns are not acceptable.

	PANTS		Navy Blue with Belt (no blue jeans or corduroy)

	SHIRT		KNIT GOLF SHIRT, White, long or short sleeves, Shirts are to be worn over a WHITE t-shirt, buttoned and tucked into pants.

	SWEATERS		Navy Blue Cardigan or Pull Over (V-Neck or Round Neck) (must be worn over white shirt)

	JACKET/COAT		To be consistent with school standards

	SHOES/SOCKS		Black or Brown Tie Oxfords
			White or Black Athletic Shoes
			No Roller Shoes Permitted
			Hose, Black or Navy Socks

PHYSICAL EDUCATION DRESS STANDARDS GRADES 3 THROUGH 12

Students are requested to wear a Physical Education uniform which is listed below:

Spring and Fall
		Shorts (knee length) - Navy blue
		Light Blue T-Shirt with Way of Faith Academy Logo
		Shoes - Athlete or Tennis Shoes
			No Roller Shoes Permitted
Winter:

		Sweat Pants - Navy Blue
		T-Shirt with Way of Faith Academy Logo - Light Blue
		Sweat Shirt - Navy Blue
		Shoes - Athlete or Tennis Shoes
			No Roller Shoes Permitted

Modesty should be observed in all items. It should be noted that dress shirts, blouses, sweaters, vests, blue jeans, corduroy and regular pants are not permitted.

If a student has left his/her uniform home, he/she will not be able to participate in the activities of their gym class for that day. If a student is unable to participate in the activities of their gym class for medical reasons, please have them bring a note from home, signed by the parent.

Each student will be required to be in proper gym wear for their first class.

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As the Way of Faith Christian Academy Board or Administration develops new policies or procedures, additions and deletions will be made in this manual.


"Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily,
	as to the Lord, and not unto men."
		Colossians 3:23