RAGIN PREPARATORY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY CODE

Of Conduct

Dress Code

The school dress code was given to all parents prior to enrollment. All scholars are required to comply with the rules and regulations of our school’s Dress Code. The Dress Code will be strictly enforced. The only clothing allowed in the building is required uniform selections that are specified in the Dress Code. scholars are only allowed to dress down on Fridays, as outlined in the Dress Code, or if given permission from teachers approved by Administration. (See APPENDIX A - DRESS CODE)

**Parents will be notified immediately to bring proper uniforms if a student is not compliant. scholars may not enter class without the appropriate attire. Failure to follow the school dress code will result in being sent home, In-school suspension, or Out-of-school suspension, depending on the severity of the offense.

Disciplinary Code

The purpose of discipline in a Christian school is two-fold. First, it is to bring the student to a level of maturity in Christ. Second, it is to develop qualities of good citizenship. To help attain these goals, specific standards of conduct are established. The best form of discipline is self-discipline. The purpose of extrinsic discipline is intrinsic discipline. Instructors seek to help scholars achieve self-discipline by maintaining positive relationships with scholars.

As a general rule, classroom actions that display actions of disrespect, lack of courtesy, general disturbance, abuse of permission, incomplete homework, tardiness, and other offenses shall be handled by instructors. Situations labeled as chronic or flagrant by the instructor will be handled by the administration.

The following are prohibited in school, for which disciplinary penalties will be assessed. Items in bold and marked with an asterisk (*) are indications of required out-of-school suspension. While actions described below represent a cross-section of activities, no compilation can be all-inclusive, and scholars are expected to refrain from behavior that would be characteristic of the areas mentioned below.

1. Attendance Parameters

**According to the S.C. Code of Regulations, Chapter 43-274, scholars must attend a minimum of 180 days of school a year. Of these 180 days, scholars cannot miss more than ten days per year or five days per semester including lawful and unlawful absences. Written notes from the parent, guardian or attending physician must be submitted within three days after returning to school or the absence will be considered unlawful. An absence is considered lawful when it is the result of illness, death in the immediate family(parents, legal guardians, siblings, grandparents, uncles, aunts.), emergencies, and recognized religious holidays. Any student who accumulates five or more unlawful absences will, according to state law, be identified as truant and subject to a possible petition to Family Court and a student repeating the current grade. **

1a. Time of School Day

Scholars should arrive at school no earlier than 7:30 a.m. Faculty/staff members will be on duty at 7:45 a.m. in the parking lot and throughout the building. Classrooms open at 8 a.m. and close at 4 p.m. Classes begin at 8:10 a.m. and end at 2:25 p.m. (See APPENDIX C - BELL SCHEDULE)

Leaving Campus

Scholars are not permitted to leave campus during school hours without permission. Once a Scholar has arrived at school, the Scholar should stay at school until the completion of his or her classes that day unless circumstances require him or her to leave.

Scholars violating this policy should expect consequences up to a suspension for the first offense. When leaving campus during the school day, specific parental permission is required. A Scholar should present a note for early dismissal, written by a parent, BEFORE the start of the school day. Each note should include the scholar’s name, the reason for early dismissal, and the time to be dismissed. The scholar then will receive a pass that should be given to the teacher at the beginning of the class from which the student will be leaving. Upon leaving the class, the scholar MUST sign out with the school receptionist.

Absences

It is each student’s responsibility to attend class. Scholars may not exceed 5 unexcused absences per semester (10 total for the year-long course). An absence will be assessed if a student misses more than 20 minutes of an individual class period. If the absence limit is exceeded for an individual course, credit may not be given unless appropriate academic remediation (as determined by the administration) is successfully completed.

For medical appointments, a doctor’s note should be turned in to the school receptionist upon arrival back at school.

Definition of Absences Excused Absences

1. Scholar illness where attendance in school would endanger his/her health or the health of others (more than two consecutive days must have a doctor’s note)

2. Death or illness in scholars' family (Parents/Guardians, Siblings, Grandparents, others at the discretion of the Administration)

3. Medical or dental appointments (with a doctor’s note)

4. Other: court proceedings, religious observations, family emergencies

Excusing an absence does not mean it is erased. Excusing the absence means there is a valid reason for the absence and the absence will not be held against the scholar for loss of credit. However, the absence remains on the scholar’s record.

Tardies

Scholars arriving after 8:05 a.m., should go directly to the office and sign in before going to their first block class. Scholars arriving late to school or a block during the school day will not be allowed into class unless they have a pass from the office. A tardy is defined as missing up to the first 20 minutes of the class.

Continued tardiness is considered a disciplinary matter. Scholars can expect to receive a detention for every three unexcused tardies, per class, they accumulate in a semester. Additionally, one class absence will be assessed for every three tardies accumulated in a specific class in one semester.

2. Careless Behavior

Running in the halls or the classroom

Purposely holding the door to the classroom closed, or slamming doors

Horseplay

*Throwing or shooting objects in the building

*Improper behavior on the bus

3. Classroom/School Etiquette

Disruptive behavior that impedes the educational process

The use of cellular phones and other electronic devices not being used for classroom projects (Appendix D - CELL PHONE POLICY)

Eating food or candy during class, other than when approved by teacher

Any item that disrupts class will be taken to the office

● 1st offense, the Scholar will be allowed to pick up the item at the end of the day

● 2nd or more offenses, parents must pick up items (will be discarded in 1 month)

Unauthorized possession of electronic equipment

Misbehaving in class (including talking out of turn) or disturbing the class

*Serious disruption of class (will be determined by Administration)

4. Physical/Sexual Behavior

Inappropriate public displays of romantic affection (i.e., holding hands, kissing, and excessive hugging)

*The possession and/or distribution of pornographic materials and information, including the distribution of sexually suggestive material via cell phones and computers

*Possession of impure or suggestive literature, writing, symbols, drawings, CDs or tapes. Distribution of such will result in more severe penalties.

*Sexually harassing another individual

*Immoral sexual conduct

5. Harassment/Intimidation

*Sexual harassment, including all acts of a sexual nature, whether verbal or physical, which are unsolicited, unwelcome, inappropriate, and/or demeaning, which interfere with an individual’s performance, or which create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive atmosphere.

*Physical harassment, including threats or intimidation of any nature, or inappropriate verbal, virtual, or physical conduct which creates a hostile, offensive, or fearful environment. Examples of 16 threats include, but are not limited to provoking a fight, fighting, bullying, acts that inflict injury or damage, and/or acts intended to control by fear and/or intimidation.

6. Verbal Behavior

*Language and/or gestures, both in-person and virtually, that are vulgar, obscene, offensive, derogatory, or disrespectful will result in disciplinary action. The believer’s talk should build others up, not tear them down.

7. Dishonesty

*Dishonesty in any form, including lying, theft, cheating, and plagiarism (Note: indication of cheating on any assignment will result in zero for the assignment and an automatic suspension; this guidance applies to the person copying as well as to the person knowingly supplying the materials to be copied)

*Gambling

*Forging signatures or altering documents

*Sharing documents via Google Apps and other means of virtual programs for assignments.

*Altering grade reports

8. Disrespectful Behavior

*Rebellious or disrespectful attitude

*Flagrant disrespect and disobedience

*Littering

*Disturbance or rude behavior in Chapel (Devotion)

*Circumventing school procedures, including short-circuiting the school-home process

*Defacing of any kind of school, student, or faculty property

*Postering, rallies, sit-ins, sit-outs, and other similar forms of protest

*Direct disobedience to any teacher or Administrator

*Deliberate destruction or damage to school, student, and/or faculty property

*Disrespect by word or action toward any faculty, staff member, or student

*Display of any advertisements of items in whatever form (e.g., posters/stickers) that are in conflict with the values of the school as stated in our objectives on books, in lockers, or on any personal possessions brought into the school

9. Prohibited Items and Activities

*Use or possession of weapons and/or dangerous items [i.e., guns, knives (including pocket knives), explosive devices, etc.] A zero-tolerance policy is in place on bringing any type of weapons or explosives to school.

*The use and/or possession of vapes, e-cigarettes, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and the abuse of prescription medication. Violations of this policy may also result in random drug testing, per Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy procedures, at the expense of the student.

*The possession or use of any illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, etc. at school or any school function will be considered grounds for suspension and possible expulsion. Because of the harmful nature of these activities, the continuance in our school of any student involved in such activities in or out of school is in serious question.

Scholars involved in the use, possession, or selling of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco may also be turned over to the proper authorities.

10. Academic Expectations

*Not being prepared for class

*Failure to meet classroom responsibilities and Teacher expectations

*Failure to employ good study habits after repeated warnings (not keeping a notebook, not taking notes, not keeping an assignment notebook, etc.)

*Failure to return documents by the due date

Social Events

A variety of social events occur throughout the year. These events help to develop school spirit, build lasting friendships, and promote positive relationships. Some events are more formal, such as the Prom. For formal social events, dress approvals for female students are required. Other socials are planned for class fellowship, such as RPCA Homecoming and other school-sanctioned events.

Prom

The Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy Prom is for Middle and High School Students each spring. Attendance is expected. An RPCA Scholar may invite an RPCA or non-RPCA guest as long as he/she is at least a Middle or High School Student, is not over the age of 19, meets all standards established by RPCA, and has been approved by the Dean of Student Affairs office. All attendees must purchase tickets prior to the event. Modest dancing is allowed at some school functions and is monitored by faculty and parent chaperones. The song list for dancing at school functions must be pre-approved by the administration before the event, and deviation from the approved song list by the DJ is not allowed (i.e., any requests outside the pre-approved song list). The DJ must understand RPCA’s Christian mission and preferences in dance and music. Explicit songs in any genre (whether the explicit or “clean” version), or any songs that promote inappropriate dancing, are not allowed. Inappropriate behavior at a dance will result in appropriate consequences as determined by the administration

Media Standards

Media inconsistent with Christian living is not permitted on campus. The appropriateness of any media item is determined solely by faculty and administrative discretion.

Movie Guidelines

R and MA-rated movies are not allowed on campus or at any RPCA-sponsored activity unless approved by the administration. RPCA students are not permitted to view movies rated NC-17 or X.

Music/Podcast Guidelines Music and podcasts with inappropriate lyrics/themes are not allowed on campus or at school events.

Social Media Use

The exact expectations that apply to direct, face-to-face communication also apply to digital communication and social media. Misuse of digital communication by RPCA students will be addressed and any inappropriate actions stemming from non-school-owned technology use (for example demeaning statements on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram) could be disciplined.

Medication

Students may not have medication in their possession at school except their own Epi-Pens, insulin, or rescue inhalers unless approved by the school administration. All other medication(s) must be dispensed by the school nurse or her designee.

All medication administered at school must be in the original container. Prescription medication must be in a current, completely-labeled (date, pharmacy, physician, student, medication, full dosing instructions) prescription container. Over-the-counter medication must be in clearly labeled original packaging.

A prescription medication authorization form must be filled out by both the parent and the physician when the physician has ordered a medication (prescription or over-the-counter) that will require in-school administration for an indefinite period of time. However, a prescription medication authorization form is not needed if a medication is to be given for a limited number of days (up to two weeks), as long as the medication is brought to the nurse’s office in an approved container (see above) and accompanied by a parent note indicating the purpose of the medication and the time(s) it should be given to the student.

Vehicles and Road Safety

Permission to drive a vehicle or to have a vehicle at RPCA is a privilege. As such, vehicles should be handled with responsibility because the privilege may be withdrawn if regulations are violated. These regulations include the following:

Students who wish to drive to school must register with the office any vehicles they plan to drive. Decals must be placed on the driver’s side lower corner of the front and rear windows. Students who are temporarily driving another vehicle must register the vehicle with the main office and hang a temporary tag in the vehicle while it is parked on campus.

Student-driven vehicles lacking decals will be ticketed.

Students must park in their designated areas or in the RPCA overflow lot.

Student drivers may not: o Take another student off campus without written parental permission. o Leave the campus during the school day without written parental permission. o Lend their vehicles to other students. o Drive their vehicles on campus during the week to go to such places as the chapel, the athletic field, or meals. o Go to the parking area or sit in their cars during the day. o Allow students to ride in a potentially dangerous manner (e.g. riding on the hood of any vehicle, riding in the back of a truck, or hanging out of a vehicle).

School authorities or campus security officers have the right to check cars at any time.

Drivers are responsible for the actions of their passengers. Parking regulations are enforced seven days a week.

Students wishing to appeal a ticket must speak with the administration within 24 hours or pay the fine.

Conferences and Addressing Issues

Parents are encouraged to communicate directly with their child’s teachers, and email or phone is often an efficient way to do this. Parents who would like to arrange a conference with a teacher should make arrangements in advance. During school hours, teachers need their full attention directed toward their students. Please do not drop by class during school hours to talk with your child’s teacher(s).

When questions or issues arise, in keeping with the principle outlined in Matthew 18, please make arrangements to speak first with the teacher or responsible party. Please refrain from talking to other students, parents, or families about a problem; it can easily become divisive and destructive. If a problem persists after speaking to the responsible party, please make an appointment to speak with the Dean of Student Affairs with the teacher or responsible party present.

Makeup Work

If a student is absent from class, a one-class meeting extension on assignments will be given for each class meeting absent, if necessary. The student is responsible for scheduling a time to make up any missed assessment(s) with his/her teachers. If the student fails to make up the missed assessment(s) within 3 days, the student may not be permitted to take it; in which case, he or she will earn a “zero.”

An absent student is individually responsible to get the notes and/or announcements from other students and/or the teacher for missed work. The student is responsible for any material covered during the absence which may be on a future assessment. Additionally, the student is responsible for all homework, class work, and long-term projects, as well as for taking any assigned quizzes or tests on the assigned date.

Students must make up work missed during absences resulting from participation in any school-related academic, athletic, or co-curricular activity. Any assignment that is due on the day of a school-related absence must still be turned in on time. Students must contact the teacher prior to their absences to reschedule any missed assessments.

Late Work

Scholars are encouraged to practice consistent responsibility and diligence in their academic lives. Homework that is related to or will be applied to the daily classroom instruction will be assessed “as is” at the time it is due.

Dual Credit Courses

Dual credit courses are those courses for which the student has been granted permission by the guidance department and Dean of Student Affairs to earn both high school and college credit. Students taking dual credit courses are building two transcripts: the institution of higher education (IHE) transcript and the high school transcript.

Dual Credit Policy:

1. Students may only take Dual Credit courses through Central Carolina Technical College (CCTC), except with approval from the high school principal.

2. Students who wish to take Dual Credit classes must complete a Dual Credit Application (available in the Guidance Office) and obtain parental consent.

3. Students are responsible for applying for admission to CCTC and for all fees, books, and tuition incurred for the course(s) and for the transfer of grades to Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy.

4. College remediation and orientation courses are not considered dual credit courses.

5. Dual Credit courses may be taken only if the student’s Ragin Prep course schedule provides the needed flexibility. Required Ragin Prep courses are the priority and students may not miss a class at Ragin Prep to attend Dual Credit courses.

6. Students may not take college courses on their own time at an IHE with the expectation that the course will be transcribed back to Ragin Prep without first consulting the guidance department to determine if the course is part of the articulated agreement between Ragin Prep and the IHE.

Grades

1. Dual Credit courses receive one quality point above the CP weighting (equal to an AP course).

2. The student is responsible for providing Ragin Prep with a transcript from the IHE showing the grade earned in the Dual Credit course.

3. When possible, a numeric average will be used for the purpose of recording the grade on the Ragin Prep transcript. If a numeric grade is impossible, the UGP conversion rule for other grades will be applied.

Transcript Requests

Official Transcripts: Transcripts that must be signed, sealed, & mailed by Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy Official Transcript Request forms can be obtained from the guidance office and must be fully completed before any official transcript is released. A $10 fee per transcript is charged; however, the fee for the first ten transcripts is waived for current seniors. All transcripts mailed internationally incur an additional $45 fee per transcript. A minimum of a 48-hour processing time should be expected for all transcript requests.

Unofficial Transcripts: Transcripts that are unsigned and emailed or picked up by the student Unofficial transcript requests can be made to the Academic Counselor/Registrar via email. There is no fee for these requests, but a minimum of a 48-hour processing time should be expected.

Credit Recovery

Credit Recovery is defined as a course-specific, skill-based learning opportunity for students who have previously failed to master content or skills required to receive credit. The term “Credit Recovery” refers to a block of instruction that is less than the entirety of the course. Credit Recovery targets specific components or a subset of the objectives to address deficiencies necessary for student proficiency in the overall course.

Credit Recovery Policy:

1. Parents must complete a Credit Recovery Application and give consent.

2. Students must have earned a grade of 50 or above to be eligible for Credit Recovery. Students earning lower than 50 must retake the course.

3. Students may not take more than two courses for remediation Ragin Prep during their high school careers.

4. Credit Recovery is available through Virtual SC or an approved RPCA platform or instructor.

5. Credit Recovery courses must be completed prior to August 1 to be recorded during the current academic year. Courses completed after August 1 will be applied to the next academic year.

6. Credit Recovery Courses must have prior administrative approval.

Beta Club

Middle and High School Students are eligible for Beta Club if - they have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA or higher - no behavioral infractions and demonstrate exemplary leadership, service, and character.

- have strong recommendations from faculty and staff

Honor Roll

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy is honored to acknowledge Scholars for their academic achievements each semester. Students

Headmaster’s Award

The Headmaster Award stands as a beacon of excellence, bestowed upon individuals who display outstanding leadership, remarkable academic prowess, and significant contributions to the Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy community. This distinguished honor, personally presented by the Headmaster, celebrates those exceptional scholars who not only shine in their academic endeavors but also lead by example, consistently showcasing commendable conduct and engagement in extracurricular or community activities.

More than just an academic accolade, the Headmaster Award embodies the recognition of a scholar's holistic influence within their school environment. This involves demonstrating leadership capabilities through active roles in clubs or organizations, igniting positive transformations within the school, or serving as an inspiring figure for fellow students. The recipient of this honor is also known to portray a spirited passion for school life, contributing vibrantly to clubs, arts, or athletics.

Being crowned with the Headmaster Award is a monumental achievement that mirrors the recipient's unwavering dedication, strenuous efforts, and commitment to their scholastic journey and self-growth. It serves as a powerful incentive, spurring the recipient to persistently strive for excellence, enabling them to create an even greater positive ripple effect in their school and beyond.

Academic Probation

Academic probation is designed to assist students in becoming more responsible for their academic progress. Academic probation also promotes important communication among students, parents, and the school. Academic probation may be invoked throughout the school year and/or as a condition of admittance to the school. Students will be placed on academic probation if they fail two or more core courses in one quarter OR if their quarter GPA falls below 2.0 (70 average for students in grades 5-8).

Students on academic probation are required to have an initial meeting with a guidance counselor who will establish an accountability plan that must be implemented by the student and his/her family at home to ensure academic improvement. Students may be required to attend weekly study sessions before, during, or after school as part of the accountability plan. A tutor will be suggested to assist in deficient subject areas and the student will meet regularly with the teacher(s) of the failing class(es). Students remaining on academic probation for two consecutive quarters who do not raise their GPA above 2.0 by the end of the second quarter may be asked to withdraw from RPCA.

Students with a diagnosed learning difference or difficulty who have a GPA below 2.0 are placed on academic review. Provided these students are working up to their expected ability level and are not exhibiting behavioral problems, they may remain on academic review indefinitely.

Extracurricular Activities Eligibility

Academic Eligibility: Students must pass five (5) courses each quarter AND maintain a 2.0 quarter GPA (70 average for students in grades 5-8) to participate in athletics and/or extracurricular activities (fine arts and clubs).

Students who have a 2.0 GPA but have a failing grade in individual subjects will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the athletic director and the principal.

Students who are ineligible:

- may not play in any games or participate in any performances;

- may not miss class time to attend any athletic/extracurricular game, practice, or event.

Students who are ineligible are placed on suspension from extracurricular activities and re-evaluated five weeks from the first day of the quarter. If the athlete’s GPA is above a 2.0 and he/she is passing five courses after five weeks, the athlete is deemed eligible at that time.

- Students who were ineligible at the beginning of their sports/activities season, regained eligibility after re-evaluation, but then who fell below eligibility standards on their next report card will be evaluated by the Principal to determine whether they may continue to participate.

Any courses taken during the summer must be approved by the administration. A maximum of two summer school courses may be used for athletic eligibility purposes during a student’s high school career.

Standardized Testing

All students in grades 3-8 take the IOWA Tests both semesters. The purpose of this standardized test is to assess student growth and performance at the time of the test and allows the school to identify strengths and weaknesses at an individual and group level.

Also during the Fall semester, all 8th-graders, sophomores, and juniors take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) and freshmen take the Practice ACT. There are no makeups for the PSAT. These tests are administered at RPCA.

The SAT and ACT are administered to high school students throughout the school year according to the schedule provided by the College Board and ACT, respectively. Students are responsible for registering online and paying the registration fee before the deadline. Sophomores are strongly urged to take the SAT near the end of the academic year. Juniors are expected to take the SAT and/or ACT at least once during their junior year.

The RPCA school code for reporting scores is 410081. Scores must be reported to the guidance office for college guidance purposes.

Graduation Requirements/Awards

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy’s college preparatory academic program is designed to encompass a full four years of education. Students are required to complete all four years of high school. The following is a list of minimum course work required to receive a diploma of graduation from RPCA. A minimum of 24 credits is required for a diploma.

Graduation Honors

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy recognizes students at graduation with the following distinctions:

Valedictorian and Salutatorian - The valedictorian and salutatorian will be selected from among the students who have also been full time students. The valedictorian will be the student(s) with the highest GPA, and the salutatorian will be the student with the second highest GPA. The valedictorian and salutatorian will receive a medal for graduation. The valedictorian and salutatorian will speak at the Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy graduation ceremony.

Senior Community Service Hours

All seniors must complete 20 Senior Community Service Hours prior to May 1. Senior Community Service Hours can be completed in the summer following the junior year or during the senior year. Twenty community service hours during the senior year or summer following the junior year are a mandatory graduation requirement for all seniors.

The intent of community service hours are to reach out to the community beyond a student’s individual family, investing in the lives of others in a student’s larger community, school, church, and/or society. Students are encouraged to serve broadly and creatively in a number of different venues to use and develop their gifts, talents, and a passion and heart for service.

Participation as a volunteer at a Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy fundraising event that wholly benefits financial aid during the junior or senior year qualifies for community service hours.

Guidance Services

Guidance services seek to assist students and their parents in discovering the unique calling God has placed on each student.

The Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy student body is comprised of a rich diversity of students, including students with challenges to their learning, such as learning differences, emotional challenges, and medical conditions. We believe all of our students are created in the image of God and are called by Him to steward their education in a 26 manner that glorifies Christ. Our mission is to partner with parents in an effort to provide reasonable accommodations for students with documented needs and to help these students develop educational ownership.

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy is equipped to serve students with the following needs:

Learning Differences: A learning difference is defined as any learning condition that makes it particularly difficult for a student to complete his/her work or adequately demonstrate learning. Common learning differences among students at Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy include ADHD and mild to moderate Specific Learning Disorders (reading, writing, math).

Emotional Challenges: An emotional challenge is defined as a condition that affects the student’s ability to function well emotionally under normal circumstances at school or in school work. Common emotional challenges among students at Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy include depression and anxiety.

Medical Condition

A medical condition is defined as any medical condition that makes it difficult for a student to accurately demonstrate learning at school. Common medical conditions among Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy students include concussions, seizures, surgeries that require prolonged absence, diabetes, and some chronic illness.

School Counseling

The school counselor serves the Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy community by providing a safe setting for students to receive support and Biblical counsel for relational, emotional, and behavioral issues. Long-term counseling for students is not provided. When deemed necessary, families will be advised to provide professional counseling for their students. In crisis situations, Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy requires a professional evaluation for safety before a student can return to school. The Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy counselor also serves as a resource for families and teachers for consultations. The school counselor serves the student body at large by speaking with students on a variety of issues.

School Records

Change of Information

Please contact the school administrative assistant immediately upon any change in address, phone number, or any serious change in family situations.

Student Records

The school maintains a complete record, including a cumulative academic record, for each student. All materials in these files are treated as strictly confidential and are available only according to the following guidelines:

- Students who have withdrawn from RPCA may have their cumulative records sent directly to the new school upon the school’s request provided their RPCA tuition is paid in full.

- Administrative permission will be needed for parents wishing to “hand carry” a stamped sealed copy of their child’s cumulative record.

Withdrawal Procedures

Student withdrawals are to be initiated through the principal’s office and will be subject to the terms outlined in the Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy School Education Agreement.

Financial Policies and Procedures

Payment Plans

Day Students: Families may choose one of four payment plans available:

- Annual Tuition Payments: Full (100%) tuition is drafted through FACTS in Aug.

- Semester Tuition Payments: Sixty percent (60%) of tuition is drafted through FACTS in Aug. The remaining forty percent (40%) is drafted in December.

- 10-Month Payment Plan: Monthly drafts through FACTS are made Aug through May. Senior (12th grade) students’ tuition payments are drafted Aug through May. The payment plan fee for monthly payers is $125 per family, applied annually.

Continuing Enrollment Deposits (for Returning Families)

A $220 per student continuing enrollment deposit for the 2023-24 school year by the due date provided.

Delinquent Accounts - Tuition and/or Incidental Fees

- Students with delinquent accounts may be denied access to FACTS. Students and parents/guardians will not have access until a certified check or cash is rendered to Accounts Receivable.

- If your FACTS account has been deactivated due to delinquency, you must bring a certified check or cash to the Finance Office in order to have the account reactivated.

- Students with delinquent accounts may be suspended from school-sponsored activities, sports participation, field trips, and academic classes.

- Families will be charged any penalty fee assessed by the bank caused by NSF (nonsufficient funds) transfers.

- Students with an outstanding balance from the previous year will not be re-enrolled until the balance is paid in full.

- Grade reports, official transcripts, and diplomas for students with delinquent accounts will not be released until all accounts are cleared. This includes senior transcripts for college admission.

Financial Assistance

Families desiring to apply for financial assistance may do so as part of the application or re-enrollment process. Applications are accepted online through FACTS. (An application fee is assessed and payable to FACTS.) A link to FACTS is available on the Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy website.

Financial aid is offered on the basis of demonstrated financial need and is limited. The following are the conditions for financial aid:

- No family will be awarded financial assistance or need-based scholarships without applying through FACTS.

- Families may not receive financial assistance over and above the amount for which they have qualified.

- Only the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may apply for aid.

- Financial aid may not be applied to accounts that are in arrears.

Late Fees

A $35 late fee may be assessed on tuition payments more than 30 days past due.

Returned Checks (NSF)

A $30 service charge will be assessed on all returned checks and returned FACTS withdrawals. After two NSF, only cash, cashier’s check, or money orders will be accepted for all payments through the remainder of the school year.

Communication

Regular forms of communication include the school website (www.raginprep.org), FACTS, and Remind. Urgent communications such as school closures are sent to parents via text, email, and phone call using FACTS.

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy also communicates through the following social media platforms:

Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/raginprep

Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/

Twitter at https://twitter.com/

Additionally, Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy Athletics communicates through the following social media platforms:

Facebook at https://facebook.com

Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/

Twitter at https://twitter.com/

Visitors and Guests

RPCA permits volunteers and visitors on campus with the following guidelines: All visitors are required to report to the office upon arrival to receive an ID sticker. A valid driver’s license is required for the security check to be completed.

Before inviting or allowing anyone to be a guest to classes, students must get permission from the principal. Guests are expected to abide by the guidelines and regulations of the school while on campus.

If family members or friends are to eat with their Scholar, arrangements should be made one day in advance, if possible.

Disciplinary Process

Disciplinary action will be taken for infractions of school policy and rules. These may include detention, probation, suspension, or as a final resort, expulsion. Most disciplinary issues are managed by the teacher in the classroom and can involve any of the following, separately or in combination as appropriate.

● Personal conference with the teacher and/or school counselor

● A parent-teacher-student and/ or parent-teacher-Administrator conference

● In-school suspension and/or Saturday detention (8 am to 12 pm at the rate of $25 per hour)

(See Appendix E - SATURDAY DETENTION NOTICE)

● Probation, combined with appropriate application of consequences relevant to the offense

● Out-of-school suspension

● Withdrawal, temporary, until restitution, and restoration can be confirmed via visible student behavior and recommendation: reinstatement on probation

● Expulsion

During the suspension period the student must keep up with his or her school work. All assignments or tests missed during the period of suspension must be completed. scholars may not practice or participate in athletic events for the duration of the suspension, nor may they be involved in after-school activities during that time. In addition, scholars may not attend school activities on the days of suspension. A parent-student-Administrator conference will be held on the day the student returns to school and the student will be placed on probation for a period of six weeks or more.

Conferences and Addressing Issues

Parents are encouraged to communicate directly with their child’s teachers, and email or phone is often an efficient way to do this. Parents who would like to arrange a conference with a teacher should make arrangements in advance. During school hours, teachers need their full attention directed toward their students. Please do not drop by class during school hours to talk with your child’s teacher(s).

Additional Grounds for Dismissal

A rebellious spirit or negative attitude, which is unchanged after much effort by the faculty, can be a poor influence on other scholars. Continued deliberate disobedience to a school staff member or school rules has an adverse effect on the school’s testimony. The school reserves the right to dismiss or deny readmission to scholars for reasons in the following categories:

● Attitude incompatibility

● Uncooperative spirit

● Rebellion toward discipline

● Chronic complaining

● Sowing discord

● Chronic unexcused absences or tardiness

● Nonconformity to standards of conduct and grooming

● Lack of parental cooperation

**A formal report to record all infractions will be retained within the student’s school file outlining the nature of the infraction, how the issue was addressed and the action plan to address resolution. Follow-up steps will be amended to the initial report.

ForacompletelistofLevelOfOffenses,andtheappropriatediscipline,pleaserefertothechartatAppendix

Disciplinary Probation

Disciplinary probation is designed to alert the student and his or her parents to areas of his or her life that need special attention. scholars may be placed on disciplinary probation by the recommendation of the faculty and the approval of the Administrator for a specified period of time for actions that include, but are not limited to, continued deliberate disobedience, continued and persistent rebellious attitude, negative influence on other scholars, academic progress that is unacceptable because the student is not working up to his or her ability, committing a severe breach of conduct inside or outside the school, failure by scholars and parents to comply with school policies, or failure by the parents to get recommended professional help for scholars when needed.

A conference with the student and his or her parents is held at the beginning of the probation to discuss the reasons for the probation. Teachers who wish to participate in the conference may do so, or they may be requested by the Administrator to attend. A letter stating the results of the conference and the reasons for the probation will follow this conference.

During the probation period, the student will be restricted from participating in any activities outside the classroom. This will only be permitted at the discretion of the Headmaster.

In cases where the probation follows a severe breach of conduct, a second major incident of misconduct during the disciplinary probation period will result in the suspension or expulsion of the student. If the offense occurs during the second semester, the student may be admitted the following year only under disciplinary probation.

During the restriction, the instructors will periodically review the progress of the student. The Administrator will then decide whether the student shall be returned to the status of a regular student or will recommend expulsion from the school to the Board of Trustees.

Disciplinary probation is sincerely intended as an intermediate step for the student to “get his or her act together.” If there is no progress in attitude, behavior, or general academic achievement, the student will be asked to withdraw from the school or he or she will be expelled by action of the RPCA Board of Trustees.

Suspension and Expulsion

Suspension is the responsibility of the Administrator and may be used for repeated or severe violations of school rules. Examples of such conduct include cheating, smoking, drinking, illegal use of drugs or possession of drugs, sexually immoral behavior, etc.

Scholars involved in the service, possession, or sale of drugs or alcohol may be turned over to the proper authorities. A student may be suspended for a period of one to ten days at the discretion of the Administrator.

School Internet Policy

Student Computer and Internet Use Policy

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy uses computers as one way of enhancing its mission to teach the skills, knowledge, and behaviors scholars will need as successful and responsible adults in the community and as lifelong learners. Computers provide unequaled opportunities to explore and use a varied and exciting set of resources. In order to make these resources available to everyone, those who use the school’s available technology must do so in a way that is consistent with their educational mission.

These rules are intended to provide general guidelines and examples of prohibited computer internet uses, but do not attempt to state all required or prohibited activities by the user. Failure to comply with the RPCA Student Computer and Internet Use Policy and these rules may result in loss of computer and internet privileges, and/or legal and disciplinary action.

Faculty must identify 2 Scholars (1 Primary/1 Alternate) as the only persons to sign out Chromebooks for the school year. Additionally, the Chromebook log must be completed by the end of each class session before the Chromebooks are returned to their storage location.

A. Computer Use is a Privilege, Not a Right

Student use of the school unit’s computers, networks, and internet services is a privilege, not a right. No person will deliberately or willfully cause damage to computer equipment or assist another in doing the same. Unacceptable use/activity may result in suspension or cancellation of privileges as well as additional disciplinary action and/or legal action. The building principal shall have the final authority to decide whether a student’s privileges will be denied or revoked.

B. Acceptable Use

Student access to the school unit’s computers, networks, and internet services is provided for educational purposes and research consistent with the school unit’s educational mission, curriculum, and instructional goals.

The same rules and expectations govern student use of computers as apply to other student conduct and communication.

Scholars are further expected to comply with these rules and all specific instructions from the teacher or administrators when accessing the school computers, networks, and internet services.

C. Prohibited Use

The user is responsible for his/her actions and activities involving school unit computers, networks, and internet services, and for his/her computer files, passwords, and accounts.

Examples of unacceptable uses that are expressly prohibited include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Accessing Inappropriate Materials – Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, forwarding, downloading, scanning, or displaying materials that are defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing, and/or illegal

2. Illegal Activities – Using the school unit’s computers, networks, and internet services for any illegal activity or that violates other Board policies, procedures, and/or school rules.

3. Violating Copyrights – Copying or downloading copyrighted material without the owner’s permission

4. Plagiarism – Representing as one’s own work any material obtained online (such as term papers, articles, etc.). When internet sources are used in student work, the author, publisher, and website must be identified.

5. Copying Software/Media Files – Copying or downloading software without the express authorization of the system administrator; illegally downloading music, photos, movies, or other such files.

6. Non-School Related Uses – Using the school unit’s computers, networks, and internet services for non-school-related purposes, such as private financial gain; commercial, advertising, or solicitation purposes.

7. Misuse of Passwords/Unauthorized Access – Sharing passwords, using other users’ passwords without permission, and/or accessing other user accounts.

8. Malicious Use/Vandalism – Any malicious use, disruption, or harm to the school unit’s computers, networks, and internet services, including but not limited to hacking activities and creation/uploading of computer viruses.

9. Unauthorized access to Social Networking/Chat Rooms/Newsgroups – Accessing social networking sites or software, chat rooms, or newsgroups without specific authorization from the supervising teacher.

D. No Expectations of Privacy

The school unit retains control, custody, and supervision of all computers; networks, and internet services owned or leased by the school unit. The school unit reserves the right to monitor all computer and internet activity by scholars. scholars have no expectation of privacy in using school computers, including email and stored files. Each person will respect the rights of others to protect the files they store on a computer and will not alter or damage such files.

E. Compensation for Losses, Cost, and/or Damages

The school and/or the student’s parent/guardian shall be responsible for compensating the school unit for any losses, costs, or damages incurred by the school unit related to the violations of the RPCA Computer and Internet Use Policy and/or these rules, including investigation of violations.

F. School Unit Assumes No Responsibility for Unauthorized Charges, Costs, or Illegal Use

The school unit assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges made by scholars, including, but not limited to credit card charges, long-distance telephone charges, equipment, and line costs, or for any illegal use of its computers such as copyright violations.

Prior to using any School issued equipment, scholars must sign the Technology Policy. Scholars who do not sign the policy will not be permitted to use school technology. This may affect the scholar's grade. (See TECHNOLOGY POLICY at Appendix I)

Weapons of the Week:

TRANSITION/CLEAN SLATE/GRACE

Week 1 (August 7 - 11) – “From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessings be on your people.” – Psalm 3:8 (NIV)

Week 2 (August 14 - 18) –“I, even I, am the One Who takes away your sins because of Who I am. And I will not remember your sins.” - Isaiah 43:25 (NLV)

Week 3 (August 21 – 25) - “We are part of the same body. Stop lying and start telling each other the truth.” - Eph 4:25 (CEV)

Week 4 (August 28 - September 1) - “And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace.” - John 1:16 (NKJV)

Week 5 (September 5 – 8) - “The Lord has taken away your punishment, he has turned back on your enemy.” Zeph 3:15 (NIV)

Week 6 (September 11 - 15) - “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” - Isaiah 41:13 (NIV)

Week 7 (September 18 - 22) –“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2 Cor 5:17 (NIV)

Week 8 (September 25 - 29) –”Take away my sin, and I will be clean. Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:7 (NLV)

Week 9 (October 2 - 5) – “But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.” Psalms 13:5 (NIV)

ENDURANCE/OFFERING/CHARITY

Week 10 (October 11 - 13) “I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and to do good in one’s lifetime” - Ecc 3:12 (NASB)

Week 11 (October 16 – 20) - “Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” - Matt 19:26 (NIV)

Week 12 (October 23 – 27) - “They only asked us to remember the poor—the very thing I also was eager to do.” - Gal 2:10 (BSB)

Week 13 (October 30 – November 3) - “But if we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently." - Rom 8:25 (NLT)

Week 14 (November 6 – 9) - “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” - Luke 6:37 (NRSV)

Week 15 (November 13 - 17) - “Let all that you do be done with love.” - 1Cor 16:14 (ESV)

Week 16 (November 30 - December 1) - “Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” - 2 Cor 9:6 (NCB)

Week 17 (December 4 – 8) - “ Turn my heart to your laws, not to greedy gain.” Psa 119:36 (CEB)

Week 18 (December 11 – 15) -”Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” - Heb 13:2 (ESV)

NEW BEGINNINGS/HOPE/LIFE IN ABUNDANCE

Week 19 (January 9 - 13) – “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.” - Isa 65:17 (ESV)

Week 20 (January 16 - 20) – “I will give them a new heart and a new mind. I will take away their stubborn heart of stone and will give them an obedient heart.” - Ezk 11:19 (GNT)

Week 21 (January 23 - 27) – “Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be.” Job 8:7 - (ESV)

Week 22 (January 30 - February 3) – “The Lord will open to you his good treasury, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hands. And you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.” Deut 28:12 - (ESV)

Week 23 (February 6 - 10) – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Rom 15:14 (ESV)

Week 24 (February 13 - 17) – “As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.” Psl 71:14 (NIV)

Week 25 (February 20 - 24) –”Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” Rom 12:12 (ESV)

Week 26 (February 27 - March 3) – “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Phi 3:14 (NIV)

Week 27 (March 6 - 10) – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Col 3:2 (NIV)

PREPARATION/TRAINING/REMEMBRANCE

Week 28 (March 13 – 17) - “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 (ESV)

Week 29 (March 20 – 24) - “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psl 34:18 (ESV)

Week 30 (March 27 - 31) – “All Scripture is given by God. And all Scripture is useful for teaching and for showing people what is wrong in their lives. It is useful for correcting faults and teaching the right way to live.” 2 Tim 3:16 (ERV)

Week 31 (April 3 - 6) – “No discipline is fun while it lasts, but it seems painful at the time. Later, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness for those who have been trained by it.” Heb 12:11 (CEB)

Week 32 (April 17 - 21) – “Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.” 2 Timothy 2:5 (CSB)

Week 33 (April 24 – 28) - “The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.” Luke 6:40 (NIV)

Week 34 (May 1 - 5) – “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.” 1Tim 4:7 (NIV)

Week 35 (May 8 - 12) – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Josh 1:9 (ESV)

Week 36 (May 15 - 19) – “The horse may be prepared for the day of battle, but to the LORD goes the victory.” Prov 21:31 (ISV)

Week 37 (May 22 - 26) - “Be prepared, and prepare yourself, you and all your companies that are assembled about you, and be a guard for them.” Ezk 38:7 (NASV)

Week 38 (May 29 - June 1) - “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 1:4 (ESV)