Brookside Christian Academy - Teacher Handbook 2025-2026
Guiding Statements & Philosophies
The Mission
Our mission is to partner with parents endeavoring to shepherd their children in spiritual discipline, to coach them in mastering academic skills and to equip them to passionately pursue Truth, recognize beauty, and know good from evil.
The Vision
At Brookside Christian Academy, our greatest aim is to teach and reflect God's unfathomable love We desire a school culture that delights in His character, where joy is the ethos of our community We seek teachers who lay down their lives for their students, and students who learn to serve rather than take. These core tenets shape our vision, and we believe that sound doctrine must be the foundation for all of it why we love, why we serve, and why we see Jesus as the only way of salvation
Our Deep Hope
Our deep hope is for our students to place their trust in the Triune God and to glorify Him eternally. We pray that they humbly depend on God, fully submitting to His authority, and walk with assurance in their personal relationship with Him throughout their lives We hope our students show resilience, that even when they "walk through the valley of the shadow of death," they "fear no evil" (Psalm 23), and face trials with joy We pray they love the Lord, love their neighbors as themselves, and love their enemies, recognizing when they don’t and thereby confessing their sin. We pray that our students find their complete identity in Jesus Christ, enabling them to lay down their lives for others.
Philosophy of Education
Our philosophy of education is grounded in the belief that all knowledge and learning must begin with and be directed toward God, who is the source of all truth, goodness, and beauty. As Scripture commands, we seek to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37), teaching future generations to do the same with diligence and purpose (Deuteronomy 6:7) Education is not merely a means to an end but a pursuit worthy of humanity as image-bearers of God, reflecting His creativity, order, and rationality
Rooted in the classical tradition, we embrace the Liberal Arts as a proven framework for equipping students with the tools of learning through the trivium the art of words and the quadrivium the art of numbers This approach fosters discernment, cultivates virtue, and prepares students to seek understanding in all areas of life Our goal is to educate the whole child mind, body, and spirit in partnership with families, so that each student develops wisdom, virtue, and the capacity to glorify God and serve others in any vocation. Education, for us, is a generational stewardship, standing on the
hearts, thoughts, actions, and purposeful intentions and how they interact with one another By examining individuals and groups across time, students seek to understand human intention while recognizing God’s sovereignty interwoven through every moment. This perspective invites students to discern the complexities of humanity while grounding their understanding in the truth of Scripture, which is integrated into every aspect of study
Philosophy of Bible and Theological Teaching
At Brookside Christian Academy, we diligently teach the Word of God, ensuring it permeates every part of school life whether in classrooms, hallways, or daily interactions. Students are equipped to be Biblically fluent, learning to take every thought captive to the Word of God and rightly divide the truth We desire for students to see their lives as part of God’s grand narrative, understanding Scripture as God-breathed, inerrant, and central to all learning
We will incorporate historical church documents, such as the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Westminster Shorter Catechism, as foundational resources in theological instruction throughout the school
Philosophy of History
The study of history at Brookside Christian Academy reveals patterns of human behavior and serves as a testament to the truth of God’s Word By examining the past through original sources (when age appropriate), students are challenged to discern how to live faithfully in the present History demonstrates humanity’s need for a Savior and testifies to God’s faithfulness to redeem and transform those who trust in His promises. Through this lens, students gain a deeper understanding of the intersection of human choices and divine sovereignty. God is the author of history (Isaiah 46:10) and the Bible is the only source of infallible history
Philosophy of Literature
Literature provides a lens to recognize the human condition and understand our place in God’s grand story. By engaging with fiction, non-fiction, and source texts, students gain insight into the complexities of life and the omniscient perspective of the author Literature offers a space to experience the innocence of observation while exercising discernment in the face of tension and conflict At Brookside Christian Academy, all chosen literature is intentional, designed to cultivate a God-centered perspective and train students in wisdom and discernment
Philosophy of Language
At Brookside Christian Academy, students study Latin after mastering foundational English grammar, fostering a deep understanding of language Latin, a structured and logical language, strengthens critical thinking, reinforces grammar, and enriches vocabulary through its influence on legal, medical, and Romance languages. It connects students to the legacy of Western civilization, as the language of
Rome the culture into which Christ entered and the vehicle of foundational Christian texts This historical and theological significance equips students to engage with primary sources, broadening their grasp of Christian thought and the enduring truths of the faith.
Philosophy of Art
Art reflects the creativity of God, the ultimate Creator, and offers a window into other times and cultures At Brookside Christian Academy, students learn to see art as a means of glorifying God by imitating His creation. Recognizing that humans are made in God’s image, students are encouraged to create and appreciate beauty, understanding that artistic expression mirrors God’s creative nature. Through this process, they honor the Creator while developing their own God-given artistic abilities
Philosophy of Physical Education
We believe in whole child learning, which nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. The education of the child is not limited to academic instruction, but also includes their physical education. Formal physical education will take place on Fridays and will educate our students in both the primary sports of our culture and fitness activities In addition, our campus will promote free play during recess and intentional gross motor skill exercises into the classroom We aim for students to develop curiosity and confidence in their physical abilities, opening up a wide variety of opportunities as they progress toward adulthood Ultimately, we aim to equip students to honor God with their bodies and minds.
Doctrinal & Belief Statements
Brookside Christian Academy desires to attract families, students, and staff from across Orthodox Christian traditions The following statements of faith and beliefs shape the boundaries of our theological identity and Christian practice for the purpose of unity in Christ. These statements establish those primary doctrines taught with authority within our school community. We defer other secondary doctrines (e g church governance, the sacraments, gifts of the Spirit, etc ) to the families and their local churches for final authority
Statement of Faith
Each teacher and family must affirm or, when holding a different position, must provide a written statement of position
The Scriptures
The Bible is the inspired, inerrant, and authoritative Word of God. It is the final authority for all matters of faith and practice, revealing God’s will and the way of salvation The 66 books of the Old and New Testaments alone are divinely inspired, complete, and sufficient for life and godliness The Holy Spirit guides interpretation, and Scripture must be understood in light of itself God has preserved His Word through the ages, ensuring its purity and reliability. 2 Timothy 3:16–17; 2 Peter 1:20–21; Hebrews 4:12; Isaiah 40:8; Psalm 119:105 2 Revelation 22:18–19, Psalm 119:130, Matthew 24:35; 1 Peter 1:25
The Godhead
There is one true God, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit each fully and equally God, yet distinct in role Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14
The Father, God
We believe in God the Father, the creator and sustainer of all things. He is sovereign over all creation, and works all things according to His will In love, He planned and accomplished a plan for the redemption of humanity by sending His Son to save the world and His Spirit to dwell within those who believe. As Creator and Sustainer, He gives life and breath to everything, and it is in Him that we “live and move and have our being.” Genesis 1:1, Isaiah 46:9–10; Ephesians 1:11, John 6:44; Galatians 4:4–6, Acts 17:25 & 2
Resurrection & Eternal Life
We believe in the bodily return of Jesus Christ to earth as the Judge of all humankind; the bodily resurrection of the just to the eternal presence and joys of God; and the bodily resurrection of the unjust to everlasting punishment, banished from the presence of God. John 5:28, 29 2 Colossians 3:4
The Church
We believe in the spiritual unity of all believers in our Lord Jesus Christ as expressed through the church, the body of Christ The church is both universal (invisible), encompassing all believers across time, while also functioning through visible, organized assemblies. The Church exists to glorify God by growing in unity, maturity, and love and continuing the work of Christ in the world through the proclamation of the Good News of the Gospel John 17:20-23 2 Acts 2:42–47; Hebrews 10:24–25 3 Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 4:12-13
Secondary Doctrines
Secondary doctrines are those doctrines which reflect distinctive denominational differences in otherwise historically-orthodox Christians These differences include proper recipients of baptism (paedobaptism or credobaptism), expression of spiritual gifts (continuationism or cessationism), views of the end times (premillennialism, amillennialism, postmillennialism), age of the earth, etc Read here for more information pertaining to secondary issues.
These are not unimportant doctrines and may be discussed and even challenged as students progress in maturity In the secondary years, these discussions will be presented without bias from the instructor for the purpose of encouraging robust discussion and debate so that students learn to interrogate Scripture, seek truth, and debate in a manner that demonstrates love for their neighbor.
Statement of Beliefs
(those which the family and faculty must agree to uphold)
Brookside believes that all matters of faith and conduct must be evaluated on the basis of the Holy Scripture, the Old and New Testaments (“Holy Scripture”), which is our infallible guide Because Holy Scripture does speak to the nature of human beings and their sexuality, it is imperative that we correctly understand and articulate what Holy Scripture teaches on these matters We are committed to the home and family as set forth in Holy Scripture. 2 Timothy 3:16–17
On Gender
Brookside believes that God created mankind in His image: male (man) and female (woman), sexually different but with equal personal dignity Consequently, we believe that professing Christians should affirm their biological sex and refrain from any and all attempts to physically change, alter, or disagree with their predominant biological sex. Genesis 1:26-28, Romans 1:26-32, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
On Marriage
Brookside believes God has ordained and created marriage to exist between one man and one woman, with absolute life-long marital fidelity, including but not limited to premarital sexual relations, cohabitation etc It is our firm conviction that we uphold the dignity of each individual and their respective Biblical roles in marriage as we embrace the unchanging and long standing principles of scriptural truth. Genesis 1:27-28, Genesis 2:18-24, Matthew 19:4-9, Mark 10:5- 9, Ephesians 5:31-33
On Sexuality
Brookside believes that God created and ordered human sexuality to the permanent, exclusive, comprehensive, and conjugal “ one flesh” union of man and woman, ordered to procreation and biological family, and in furtherance of the moral, spiritual, and public good of binding father, mother, and child Consequently, we believe that professing Christians should resist and refrain from any and all same-sex romantic relationships, sexual acts, or lifestyles. Genesis 1:27, Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6, Mark 10:5-9, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Ephesians 5:25-27, Revelation 19:7-9, Revelation 21:2
On Sanctity of Human Life
We believe that all human life is sacred and created by God in his image Human life is of immeasurable worth in all its dimensions, including pre-born babies of all gestational ages, the aged, the physically or mentally challenged, and every other stage or condition from conception through physical death. We are therefore called to defend, protect, and value all human life. We believe this is the starting point for all discussions related to the sanctity of life and the imago Dei Genesis 9:6; Psalm 139; Proverbs 24:11-12; Matthew 6:26; Luke 12:6-7
Brookside’s Statement Of Faith and Statement of Beliefs outline what Brookside Christian Academy agrees to believe together in an effort to be unified as a Christ centered Academic community.
Teacher Responsibilities
Conditions of Employment
● Affirm personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior
● Model Christian virtues and maintain a biblical standard of conduct both in and out of school
● Actively involved in and financially support a local church aligned with the Apostles’ Creed
● Adhere to the school handbook, Statement of Faith, and governance.
● Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information (e.g., grades, finances, family matters).
● Exhibit professionalism and modesty in attire
● Address disputes using biblical principles
● Enroll eligible children at Brookside Christian Academy unless otherwise approved by leadership.
Above Reproach Statement
● Avoid behaviors or relationships that could appear improper
● Maintain professional interactions with students, parents, and staff
● Ensure private meetings occur in visible or public spaces
Planning & Teaching Expectations
● Map course objectives annually and submit weekly lesson plans to the Head of School
● Teach using a biblical worldview and the classical trivium framework.
● Tailor instruction to individual student needs while fostering order and discipline.
● Design assessments to measure mastery of grammar, logic, and rhetoric skills
● Use curriculum as a tool to inspire learning rather than as a rigid system
● Enter grades within 48 hours (unless for finals or papers longer than 2 pages)
● Give feedback to students immediately when practicing new concepts
Professional Conduct
Social Media
All teachers and faculty must use wisdom and discretion when engaging with social media. They must reflect Christian values and avoid divisive or controversial topics.
● Possession of weapons or illicit substances, substance abuse
● Vandalism, theft
● Inappropriate language or conduct
● Consequences may include suspension or expulsion pending a hearing
Grading & Homework
Grading Philosophy
Grades reflect work quality and serve to:
1. Encourage student improvement.
2 Assist with academic placement
3 Hold students accountable
Grading Scale
Primary Grading
Secondary & Secondary Prep Grading
Weighted Categories
● Practice Work: 30%
● Magnum Opus: 70%
Subject-Specific Protocols
● Humanities: Weekly graded Magnum Opus assignments; book-end assessments include grammar, logic, and rhetoric
● Math/Science/Latin/Music & Art: Weekly graded assignments and bi-weekly assessments
● Group Projects: Graded collectively to emphasize community and character development.
Parent Communication
Teacher Expectations:
● Notify parents of successes or struggles immediately.
● Document and address concerns via ClassReach.
● Follow the Matthew 18 principle for conflict resolution
General Educational Framework
Integrate a Biblical Worldview:
● Ensure that all lessons and activities align with the belief that God is the source of all truth, goodness, and beauty
● Incorporate relevant Scripture (e g , Matthew 22:37, Deuteronomy 6:7) into teaching and classroom discussions.
Teach for Whole-Child Development:
● Plan lessons that nurture students spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and physically.
● Foster an environment that encourages students to reflect God’s creativity, order, and rationality
Emphasize Generational Stewardship:
● Use teaching methods that honor past wisdom while preparing students to contribute to God’s kingdom in the future
Specific Philosophies & Implementation
Philosophy of Language
1 Prioritize Foundational Skills:
● Begin with strong English grammar instruction to build a foundation for learning Latin
1. Teach Latin:
● Use Latin to reinforce critical thinking, vocabulary, and grammar skills.
● Highlight its role in Western civilization and Christian texts, encouraging engagement with primary sources
Philosophy of the Quadrivium
1. Sequential Learning of Numbers:
● Teach arithmetic, progressing to geometry, music, and astronomy (numbers in space and time)
● Integrate concepts of divine order and harmony into lessons
2. Connect Mathematics and Creation:
● Emphasize the reflection of God’s design in mathematical patterns and structures.
Philosophy of Mathematics
1. Promote Logical Thinking:
● Design activities that develop critical and logical reasoning through problem-solving
2 Highlight Mathematics as Universal Language:
● Use real-world examples to show how mathematics reflects God’s order in creation
Philosophy of Science
1 Inspire Curiosity:
● Incorporate hands-on experiments and nature observations
● Foster reverence for God’s creation and its intricate design
2. Teach Foundational Skills: Guide students through forming hypotheses, observing, and drawing conclusions while affirming that all truth is God’s truth.
Philosophy of Humanities
1 Explore Human Intentions:
● Analyze the hearts, thoughts, and actions of historical figures to understand God’s sovereignty in human history.
2. Integrate Scripture:
● Use biblical principles to interpret historical events and literature
Philosophy of Bible
1 Ensure Biblical Fluency:
● Teach students to take every thought captive to Christ
● Integrate thematic Scripture studies into daily interactions and Chapel programs
2. Connect Students to God’s Story:
● Help students see their lives within the broader narrative of God’s redemptive plan.
Philosophy of History
1. Use Original Sources:
● Include age-appropriate original texts to deepen understanding of historical contexts
2 Demonstrate God’s Faithfulness:
● Teach patterns of human behavior and divine redemption
Philosophy of Literature
1 Encourage Discernment:
● Use selected fiction and non-fiction texts to explore the human condition and teach students to make wise, God-centered decisions.
2 Teach Through Stories:
● Emphasize the role of narrative in understanding God’s work in the world
Philosophy of Art
1 Cultivate Creativity:
● Encourage artistic expression that imitates God’s creation and reflects His beauty
2. Explore Cultural Contexts:
● Use art to provide insights into different times and cultures, fostering an appreciation for God’s work through humanity
● Encourage students to study Scripture diligently, with guidance from the Holy Spirit
3 Integrate the Canon: Use the 66 books of the Bible exclusively for instruction and avoid teaching from non-canonical texts except for historical context.
4. Preservation and Application: Highlight the historical reliability of Scripture and encourage memorization and application of key verses
The Godhead
1. Teach Unity and Distinction:
● Present the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) as co-equal and co-eternal, using biblical examples to explain their roles in creation, redemption, and sanctification
● Encourage student questions about the Trinity and address them with clarity, rooted in Scripture
2. Worship and Adoration: Model reverence for God in classroom prayers, discussions, and worship opportunities.
Salvation
1 Explain the Source of Salvation: Teach that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, based on biblical passages such as Ephesians 2:8-9.
2. Foster Assurance of Salvation: Encourage students to trust in God’s promises and discuss perseverance with a balance of hope and accountability
Cultural Issues
1. Affirm Biblical Sexuality and Gender Roles: Teach students to value and respect God’s design for humanity, reinforcing the biblical stance on gender, marriage, and sexuality with compassion.
2 Sanctity of Life: Integrate discussions on the value of life into lessons, particularly in science, literature, or history, to underscore God’s design and purpose for every person
3 Charitable Engagement: Encourage students to engage with cultural issues thoughtfully and respectfully, always pointing back to biblical truth.
Secondary Doctrine
1 Foster Discernment in Secondary Doctrine:
● Teach secondary doctrines such as baptism, eschatology, and spiritual gifts as non-salvific but valuable theological discussions.
● Present multiple perspectives fairly, guiding students to Scripture and their parents for deeper understanding
2 Respect Parental and Church Roles: Emphasize to students the importance of discussing secondary doctrines with their families and local church leaders