Firm Foundations Academy Northwest Handbook 2024-2025

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The Mission of Firm Foundations Academy Northwest

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EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY

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EDUCATION FOR THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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OUR DISTINCTIVE

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OUR CULTURE

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STATEMENT OF FAITH

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CULTURAL ISSUES

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OVERARCHING CULTURE

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UNIFORM POLICY

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DISCIPLINE POLICY

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ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY

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CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM

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UNIFORM VIOLATION

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PRIMARY STUDENT DISCIPLINE PLAN

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SECONDARY STUDENT DISCIPLINE PLAN

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OFFICE VISIT PROTOCOL

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EXCESSIVE OFFICE VISITS

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SERIOUS DISCIPLINE CASE

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OUR PROGRAM

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EDUCATION SCHEDULE

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OUR STRUCTURE - FOCAL POINT

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LIMITING SUBJECTS

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CURRICULUM

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HUMANITIES & LITERATURE

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ART & MUSIC

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SCIENCE

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MATHEMATICS

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PHILOSOPHY OF GRADING

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GRADING POLICY

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ELEMENTARY GRADING POLICY

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SECONDARY GRADING POLICY

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INDIVIDUAL GRADES

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GROUP PROJECT GRADES

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MATHEMATICAL GRADING POLICY

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HUMANITIES GRADING POLICY

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HUMANITIES GRADING SCALE

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FAILING AND RETAKES

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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

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ATTENDANCE

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TARDIES

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PARENT COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT

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PARENT HONOR CODE

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SECONDARY STUDENT HONOR CODE

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

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LUNCH

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SNACKS

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HEALTH RECORDS

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ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES

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ILLNESS POLICY

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ACADEMIC SCHEDULE

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CALENDAR

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DAILY SCHEDULE

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ENROLLMENT POLICY

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ENROLLMENT PROCESS

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PART-TIME STUDENTS

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ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND ADA STATEMENT

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TUITION

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FINANCIAL AID

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MAINTAINING EXCELLENCE

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EVALUATIONS

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SCHOOL GOVERNANCE AND ACCREDITATION

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THE Firm Foundations Academy Northwest BOARD OF ADVISORS

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The Mission of Firm Foundations Academy Northwest Mission Statement Firm Foundations exists to partner with families to provide an engaging Christ centered and classical education for all learners, for the purpose of developing wisdom and discernment through joyful learning for the Glory of God.

EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY Firm Foundations Academy will infuse all that it does with Scripture. We aim to feed the mind with truth, goodness, and beauty, and foster holy discernment and eloquence. We use the trivium to guide the student through this process and will move from concrete concepts to philosophically deep understanding, inspiring joyful and lifelong learning.

Christian * Compassionate * Classical Firm Foundations NW provides a holistic classical education. We take into account students’ spiritual health, cognitive abilities, social acumen, and emotional stability, to bring students to their full potential through individualizing learning. We teach children how to think, not what to think. The Joyful Learning Model (2021) outlines three pillars that define our educational practices: encouraging culture, individualized learning, and cognitive enhancement.

The first pillar is encouraging culture. At FFA we build community creating a sense of belonging through teamwork, practice, and a growth mindset. We nurture students as they navigate peer relationships, learn how to show kindness and compassion to their neighbors, and practice respect toward their elders.

The second pillar is individualized learning. Students learn best when they are working in their zone of proximal development (ZPD), the level where, if assisted, the student can master new skills and reach the next level. We practice direct clear instruction that is systematic. We believe that not all students need the same learning experience, and our teachers differentiate lessons to meet individual needs.

Students learn best through enjoyment, and we include lots of games, lively discussions, and hands-on experiences.

The third pillar, cognitive enhancement, is what sets us apart. We believe that to bring students to their full potential we should seek to increase cognitive processes through daily cognitive enhancement activities. Our teachers are trained to use games and thinking skill practices to help challenge the students to grow cognitively.

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At Firm Foundations Academy Northwest the Trivium (three classical stages), which moves from the concrete to the philosophical, is applied at every level and in every field of study, building skills in discernment. Academically strong and struggling learners are integrated into learning groups based on mastery of material rather than age. Curricula is a tool rather than a master. We synthesize fields of study in story centric or thematic lessons based on historic eras of time and build the important literary, mathematical and science skills necessary for interpreting God’s creation and the order of the world. Output expectations are varied, because student gifting is varied. Small classes foster discussion, speaking, and service while being given space to take academic risk - equipping them for responsibility and leadership in God’s Kingdom.

EDUCATION FOR THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Firm Foundations Academy Northwest aims to teach students of all ability levels through excellent Christian curriculum and direct teaching methods. Because we are able to enroll both conventional and unique learners, our program is very distinct. We offer classical teaching as input, but only expect classical output based on the gifting of each individual student. Our teaching is done in a multi-age group setting in which we implement the trivium and move from the concrete to the philosophical as the students are ready.

We believe that those diagnosed with a learning disability as well as those with developmental delays, or trauma, are not defined by their condition. They are first and foremost image bearers of the living God. These uniquely gifted, and sometimes hurting children, have a mind, a body and a soul that has the same needs and desires as other children. For some, the difference is in their hyper-sensory skills which can overload their minds. For others, they need added assistance in various behavior and academic areas. Because of this, our goal is to give these children a learning environment that helps them organize their sensory systems, see themselves as an integral part of God’s world, and invest the talent God has given them.

We do not use the child’s condition as an excuse for sin, but we may make academic and behavioral accommodations for children at the recommendation of the Education Council upon review of diagnostic information and or circumstances.. This decision will not be automatic as per the request of a parent, but will seek professional advice, pray, and consult with invested parties to come up with the best decision for the student and community.

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While our goal is straightforward, the way we accomplish this for each child is complex. Because each child is an image-bearer of God and is created with unique gifts and struggles, we believe it is important to individualize their instruction without compromising the community. We employ a variety of methods to help our students learn to focus their minds and calm their bodies, so they can grow in their love for God and neighbor.

Therefore we will: 1. Provide our students with a well-ordered, consistent, environment.

2. Help our students see who they are in the context of God’s world.

3. Teach our students clear communication and use clear communication in training.

4. Coach our students in loving their neighbors through structured actions.

5. Guide our students through as much academic material as they are capable.

We are not able to accommodate children with known overt behaviors that would morally or physically, intentionally harm other students.

OUR DISTINCTIVE 1. Very low student/teacher ratio, allowing true individualized learning plans 2. Integrated ages, where students move through milestones rather than age-related grades 3. Integrated subjects 4. Minimal homework in the younger years with this expanding over time 5. Classically-trained teachers, who individualize the learning experience

OUR CULTURE STATEMENT OF FAITH THE APOSTLES’ CREED "We believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord: Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. He descended into hell. The third day He arose again from the dead; He ascended

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into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy *catholic church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen." *catholic, is the universal Christian church (body of worldwide believers)

CULTURAL ISSUES Firm Foundations Academy Northwest believes that all human life is sacred and that we are created in the image of God and called to defend and protect that life. We believe there are two distinct genders, male and female, and together they reflect the image and nature of God and are essential in understanding the Biblical meaning of “marriage” described in Scripture. (Gen. 2:18-25).

OVERARCHING CULTURE Dilige Deum, Dilige Proximum- Love God, Love neighbor.

When God made humans, He made us in his own image, people reflective of His triune nature with the capacity to love, as He has loved. In the last century, schools have assumed a fragmented view that reduces a person to an individual in need of knowledge. At Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, we believe in discipling the whole person to love God and love and honor all people.

Augustine deals with this in “On Christian Teaching.”.... It is interesting to consider that to practice loving God and loving our neighbor might be a greater education than anything. To love our neighbor is to love the image of God. To love our neighbor we need to study and understand them. To know and love our neighbor is to know more about God and to learn more about God produces wisdom, and wisdom lives out sacrifices for our neighbor. In other words, the cycle of education has gone awry.

The subject of spelling is useless unless my spelling serves a greater purpose. The subject of science is useless unless I understand it in the context of God’s incredible world.

UNIFORM POLICY Click to see the Uniform Policy.

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DISCIPLINE POLICY We recognize that maintaining a well-disciplined classroom is key to learning. We believe that knowledge without virtue is dangerous. Therefore, encouraging virtuous behavior that stems from the heart is as important as encouraging excellence in math and grammar. A student’s behavior, attitude, and physical disposition should contribute positively to the classroom environment and Firm Foundations Academy Northwest’s value of shaping godly character. Our rule is simple for maintaining this disciplined atmosphere: “love your neighbor as yourself.”

Firm Foundations Academy Northwest uses a structured discipline plan for the classroom while varying the consequences based on the age of the child and the parent’s input. Although our method of helping them reach the standard of “loving God and loving our neighbor” may be different for each child, the standard remains.

ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY Use of personal electronic devices (i.e. phones, smart phones, portable gaming devices, smart watches etc.) by students is prohibited on campus. Such devices may be put on silent or turned off and left in bags or backpacks while a student is at school or on campus. Any use of phones must be approved by the administration. ● Use of laptops is permissible for secondary students for academic purposes only under the pre-approved direction and supervision of a teacher. ● A first violation of this policy will result in immediate confiscation of the device, to be released to a parent or guardian. ● A second violation of this policy will result in a parent conference with the administration. ● A third violation of this policy will result in a disciplinary hearing. ● Firm Foundations Academy Northwest accepts no responsibility for use, breakage, theft, or loss of phone or other personal items.

CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM Cheating is defined as looking at another’s work without the teacher’s permission, or communicating with another during an exam without the teacher’s permission.

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Plagiarism is defined as using another’s work without formally acknowledging the source. If either cheating or plagiarism is noticed, the assignment or exam will immediately receive a 0. Parents will be notified. A second cheating or plagiarism infraction will result in an education council review.

UNIFORM VIOLATION Parents will be notified of uniform violations through a form in ClassReach. After four uniform violations, the student will have an office visit and an email will be sent to parents. After five violations within a semester, the student will be sent home. Subsequent uniform violations will require the administration to treat the violations as office visits in accordance with the discipline policy.

PRIMARY STUDENT DISCIPLINE PLAN The principle is love God and love your neighbor.

1. If there is unloving behavior in the classroom during breaks or lunchtime, the teacher who observed the situation will give a warning and correct the behavior.

2. If a student is overtly disrespectful to authority, they will have an immediate office visit with administration.

3. If a second infraction occurs, the infraction will be documented.

4. If an infraction occurs during a break, the student’s lead teacher will be notified and the instance will be documented accordingly.

5. If a third infraction occurs, the teacher will send the child to the office with details about the issue. a. The administration will notify the parents through email of what occurred and the discipline given.

SECONDARY STUDENT DISCIPLINE PLAN The principle is love God and love your neighbor.

1. Students will respect the authority of all adults and the rights and property of others.

Disrespect toward fellow students, teachers or other staff in attitude, words or actions will not be tolerated. Blatant disrespect resulting in the student being dismissed from the classroom or a school activity will result in a parent phone call.

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2. If a student is overtly disrespectful there will be an immediate office visit.

3. If a student is speaking inappropriately there will be an immediate office visit.

4. If a student has a pattern of incomplete homework, the teacher will notify the parents and the administration.

5. HOMEWORK a. A missed assignment will be entered as a “0” until submitted. The following penalties will apply to unexcused late assignments: 10% for not being submitted by the due date, 20% if handed in two days late and 30% for three days or later. A standing “0” will mean the student never submitted the work (the “days” referred to above are calendar days).

OFFICE VISIT PROTOCOL 1. The administration may discipline in one of several ways: a. A composition explaining i.

What they did wrong

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What motivated them to do it

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What would have been a better choice

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What they will do to make compensation

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Follow up

b. Time to sit and think. Removal from the activity. c. Missing Recess d. If an office visit occurs, a discipline note will go home from administration to the parents.

EXCESSIVE OFFICE VISITS As noted above, the purpose of the discipline policy is to shape godly character in the student. If it becomes apparent to the administration that the student’s character is not improving over time and/or is becoming worse to the detriment of the school culture, an administrator will meet with the parents and they will come up with a plan to resolve the issue. Administration will also meet with the parents in cases where the student exhibits a lack of repentance or lacks interest in attending Firm Foundations Academy Northwest. To help the parents understand their child’s behavior, they may be required to sit with the student during a part or all of the school day. If the Education Council determines that the student’s behavioral issue still cannot be corrected through the discipline plan(s) 10

generated by the meeting(s) with the parents, then it will be considered a “Serious Discipline Case”.

SERIOUS DISCIPLINE CASE A Serious Discipline Case occurs when a student exhibits extreme ungodly behavior that impedes the culture of the school. Examples include (but are not limited to): 1. Excessive Office Visits (see section of the same name above) 2. Unrepentant, consistent, or serious disrespect of authority 3. Unsafe behavior–endangerment to themselves or others 4. Overt moral issues including (but not limited to): a. Inappropriate touching b. Substance abuse c. Illegal activity d. Inappropriate use of words If the administration or Education Council has determined that the student’s words or behavior constitute a Serious Discipline Case, the student will be sent home and be subject to a discipline hearing before the school board . The discipline hearing will include the student, the parent(s), the teacher (if applicable), an administrator, and school board members. Before returning to school, the school board will determine the necessary course of action, which may include suspension or expulsion of the student. Tuition will not be reimbursed for suspensions or expulsions.

OUR PROGRAM EDUCATION SCHEDULE Firm Foundations Academy Northwest offers a 3-day program. Students are placed in learning groups based on their reading ability. Students progress through these learning groups as they grow in their skills. Because each child is uniquely designed, some students may progress more quickly than others.

Our learning group model affords both delays and accelerations through the learning levels. Fields of study are offered across the school at the same time so that students can go to the class that fits their learning needs.

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OUR STRUCTURE - FOCAL POINT Fellowship between the ages Overlapping grades to accommodate unique learners Core classes that promote mastery Application of what is learned Loving God & loving neighbor as primary tenants Prayer & Scripture interwoven through each day Outpouring of love on students, families & community Integrated learning Nurturing education with teachers as mentors Thematic and or topical integration between learning groups ❖ Teachers need large blocks of flexible time rather than rigid class periods ❖ Subject integration needs to be intentional but organic. ❖ Teachers need to become master teachers through training. ❖ Foundational principles need to be instilled and, where necessary, memorized for future recall. ❖ Teachers need to be mentored so that they can mentor their students well. ❖ Daily classroom schedules will take into account community needs.

LIMITING SUBJECTS “…the greatest service we can do to education today is to teach fewer subjects. No one has time to do more than a very few things well before he is twenty, and when we force a boy to be a mediocrity in a dozen subjects, we destroy his standards, perhaps for life.” - CS Lewis

CURRICULUM At Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, we believe that curriculum is a tool, which is essential, but the teacher brings education to life through use of that tool. As such, in addition to using various curricula and a developed list of skills and objectives we will obtain the most qualified and dedicated teachers as possible: teachers who exemplify a love of learning and point young students to Jesus Christ through immersing their teaching in goodness, beauty and truth.

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The final aim of every subject taught: To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek him the greatest adventure; to find him, the greatest human achievement. - Augustine

HUMANITIES “The science of the image of God” Our Humanities block is at the core of our curriculum, and it is organized around two principles: worldview and integration. History, literature, Bible, geography, grammar, writing, and spelling are woven into an integrated whole and taught from a distinctively Christian perspective.

This block of time reflects our commitment to restoring not only the content but the structure of education. Rather than a rigid class schedule that hurriedly moves students from one subject-specific class to the next, interrupting great discussions or meaningful projects, we linger longer and go deeper through integration of material, allowing the student time to master learning.

We read stories, the stories of our world. It is stories that empower ideas, and it is ideas that spark innovation. We filter all of this in light of Biblical truth to create missional students.

The eras we engage with are Ancient Times, Middle Ages, Early Modern Times, The Modern Age, and American/Oregon History. We rotate through these eras as a whole community each year, learning the big ideas that have shaped the world within each era.

Objectives for the Humanities will be met relating to History, Literature, Bible, Art, Geography, Grammar, Writing, and Spelling.

LITERATURE Literature provides the opportunity to recognize the human condition through the power of story, and understand our role in God’s grand story. It enables us to look at good and evil and practice discernment from a position of innocence*. Fiction, non-fiction and source texts at Firm Foundations will have this aim while also incorporating a theme prevalent in the era of time being studied. We will intentionally choose literature that is eloquent whenever possible, but most importantly we will choose literature that provokes conversation with thematic underpinnings necessary for laying the foundation of God-centered wisdom. *While a story may discuss sin, the student gains understanding about sin without experiencing it, thus gaining discernment.

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ART & MUSIC Art and music should be interwoven to a robust study of the “image of God.” Therefore Firm Foundations Academy Northwest will incorporate these into the fiber of teaching humanities while also holding skill-based classes for technique.

SCIENCE "Some people, in order to discover God, read books. But there is a great book: the very appearance of created things. Look above you! Look below you! Read it. God, whom you want to discover, never wrote that book with ink. Instead, He set before your eyes the things that He had made. Can you ask for a louder voice than that?" — Augustine We teach that the Creator literally spoke the world into existence and therefore belief in God as Creator is foundational to all scientific studies.

We study various science topics within each blended grade level during the primary years and build the important scientific skills necessary for further discovering God’s beautiful earth. As students move into secondary education, we provide the foundational fields of study necessary for a post-secondary education.

MATHEMATICS “Mathematics is the language with which God wrote the universe.” — Galileo Mathematics takes mastery to understand. This means that both corporate instruction and individualized learning are important in mastering these skills. We use a combination of integrated methods, manipulatives, and the trivium to build important skills in the study of mathematics. Word problems, worked through as a group, help with puzzling skills and with our aim to go a mile deep rather than a mile wide in regard to our understanding of mathematics.

Math is offered school-wide at the same time each day. This allows students to be grouped in their appropriate skill level no matter their reading level. Both primary and secondary students advance as they master material rather than as they age.

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PHILOSOPHY OF GRADING GRADING POLICY Grades at Firm Foundations Academy Northwest do not in any way reflect the immeasurable worth and value of each child made in God’s image, but rather an accurate reflection of the quality of work in a given field of study at a given time. At Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, grades serve three basic purposes: 1. To help students learn in their zone of proximal development 2. To identify skills that are mastered 3. To provide a just and legitimate means of holding students accountable for the quality of their work. Grades provide a widely understood means of communicating progress and achievement to parents and other parties such as college entrance boards or other schools to which the young student may transfer.

We have established a balanced and objective grading system based on these values.

ELEMENTARY GRADING POLICY Our evaluation will go beyond grades. We will use a mastery based grading system. The purpose of our evaluations are to measure growth and rate of growth and clearly communicate progress to the parents.

SECONDARY GRADING POLICY INDIVIDUAL GRADES Firm Foundations Academy Northwest will use a unique method of grading that ensures students have time to “practice” before they receive a grade. Therefore regular “feedback” grades, or “soft grades” on new concepts will be internally kept while grades that affect overall standings will be recorded in our software for transcripts. Consistent with educating the whole child, both attitude and effort will be considered within our grading systems.

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GROUP PROJECT GRADES Group projects are a part of coursework and it should be expected that grading of these will not be individualized because we believe that character in community reveals the heart: I Thessalonians 5:14 “And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” Because Firm Foundations Academy Northwest cares even more about the heart than the academics, group projects allow teachers to see where character work is needed, and since we are preparing students for life, not just college, character in Christian community is integral to “Loving God and Loving Neighbor.”

MATHEMATICAL GRADING POLICY Because math problems are objectively right or wrong, grading will follow a simple number correct out of the number of problems. Exercises that are philosophically based will follow the humanities scale (see below).

Math examinations are 50% of the final grade Math homework completion and Math practicums/projects (groups or individual) is 50% of the final grade

HUMANITIES GRADING POLICY Vocabulary terms, spelling, grammar, and direct character names or dates will be objectively graded and will be on a points-based system. With mastery as our goal, students will be asked to correct the wrong answers.

Assignments that are more philosophical in nature will be graded on a scale. Within each assignment, grammatical and spelling mistakes will be clearly marked and students will be asked to review the word or grammatical rule and “edit” their writing. This promotes mastery in writing assignments.

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HUMANITIES GRADING SCALE 10 ● Very best work individually ● Zero mistakes grammatically ● Met every standard given for the work and then did more ● Excellent creative use of words/delivery/writing style/persuasion ● Solid Christian worldview (either explicit or implicit biblical backing) ● Christian character was present while working 9 ● Outstanding work individually ● Small mistakes grammatically ● Met the standard for the work in every way ● Solid use of words/delivery/writing style/persuasion ● Solid Christian worldview (either explicit or implicit biblical backing) ● Christian character was present while working 8 ● Good work individually ● Some grammatical mistakes ● Met the standard for the work well overall ● Used words/delivery/writing style/persuasion appropriately ● A Christian worldview was implicitly or explicitly behind the work ● Christian character was present while working 7 ● Decent work individually ● Quite a few grammatical mistakes but communication was not compromised ● Met the majority of the standards for the work ● Used words/delivery/writing style/persuasion in a sub-par way but it was sensible ● A Christian worldview was not as present as needed, but it wasn’t un-biblical 6 ● Limited effort individually ● Grammatical mistakes compromised communication

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● Standards for the work were not met ● Did not use words/delivery/writing style/ persuasion well ● A Christian worldview was not present 5 Assignment should be re-done 0 The assignment is not turned in Cheated on assignment Plagiarized

FAILING AND RETAKES Retakes will be left to the teacher’s discretion. A student who has simply failed for a lack of understanding may be given another opportunity to prove their understanding after further practice.

A student who neglected their studies and therefore failed, may not be given a retake opportunity.

If a student fails an entire course, the student, parents, and teacher will meet with the Education Council to determine the best course of action for the student. Circumstances, understanding of directions and effort will all be taken into consideration.

Parents will be notified within three weeks of the end of the grading period if their student is in jeopardy of failing.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL Students are able to arrive between 8:10 and 8:30 AM. Assembly will begin promptly at 8:30 AM each day. Students need to be picked up between 3:00 and 3:15 PM in the afternoons. There will be no supervision for students before 8:10 AM and after 3:15 PM, so please do not drop off students earlier, and please pick up students before 3:15 PM.

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ATTENDANCE Firm Foundations Academy Northwest has intentionally set its vacations, schedule, and structure to allow important time for families. By registering a child in Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, the parent or guardian is agreeing to this schedule and it is showing love to the community of students to be in attendance. Emergencies or important family times arise from time to time; therefore students have *6 academic days (the equivalent of 2 weeks) within each semester for school absences without consequence to their credits unless pre-approvals are arranged. We ask that teachers be notified as soon as possible for any absences.

For lower primary students who are absent, the teacher will send a clear assignment for math and reading, at the end of the day. Material will not be re-covered for the student.

For older students who are absent, the teacher will send the reading material and the homework assignments but the student is responsible for making up the learning by gathering notes from other students.

If a student exceeds their 6 absent days, the education council will evaluate student progress.

For sickness: please notify the teacher through the ClassReach form provided.

For family time (vacations, etc.): please use our pre-scheduled absence form to notify the appropriate teacher.

For prolonged periods of absence (to extend beyond the 6 academic days - the equivalent of 2 weeks): please get pre-approval from the Dean of Students. *Emergency situations will obviously be taken into consideration.

TARDIES A student who arrives later than 8:30 AM is considered tardy. Four unexcused tardies within a month will constitute a parent email. A fifth tardy will result in an office visit. Subsequent unexcused tardies will be treated as office visits in accordance with the discipline policy. For students who arrive after 8:30 AM, parents must park, walk children in and sign them in with administration.

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PARENT COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT At Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, we recognize that parents are ultimately responsible for the education and flourishing of their children. We believe that educators are facilitators and advisors as parents pursue this important work.

Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled as needed. We encourage teachers and parents to speak weekly about how the student is doing and to schedule formal meetings as needed. All teachers will meet with each family in October or November.

Teachers may be contacted through ClassReach outside of regular working hours. When addressing any concerns, parents should copy the administrator to keep the school informed of classroom circumstances. Teachers will do the same when addressing concerns via emails with parents.

If you have a concern about curriculum content, Firm Foundations Academy Northwest policy, or philosophy, communicate with the administrator. If you have questions about the weekly workings of a particular classroom (homework load, etc.), contact the Lead Teacher through ClassReach. At no time should an individual student’s problem be addressed to non-involved parties. In the great majority of cases, if you have worked patiently and in good faith, with the teacher and directors, you will find a satisfactory resolution.

Please follow Matthew 18:15 to determine the proper order of communication: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.”

PARENT HONOR CODE I am placing my child as a student at Firm Foundations Academy Northwest because I care about my child being educated both in character and in academics. I understand that my child will be educated under a Christian worldview and that loving God and neighbor are primary tenants of Firm Foundations Academy Northwest.

Part of loving God and neighbor means being on time, present and respectful. Firm Foundations Academy Northwest has been very thoughtful in developing a school schedule that allows for solid family time during summers, holidays and various breaks. For this reason, I understand that school attendance is a way of loving teachers and classmates and I will ensure that my child is present and on time unless an emergency arises. In cases of planned absences or important family time, I understand 20

that it is my responsibility to communicate with the teachers and make a plan for the class time my child will miss without putting an excessive burden on the teachers. I also understand that poor attendance may cause my child to fall behind.

I understand that the uniform is a way of loving those around us by respecting a unified and meaningful representation of our school culture, including professionalism, modesty and our distinct values. I will make sure that my child follows the uniform policy so that this culture is maintained.

I understand that my child will need to submit to the authority of Firm Foundations Academy Northwest faculty and staff during school events. I also understand that I will be ultimately responsible for my child’s behavior while at Firm Foundations Academy Northwest and thereby will follow the directives of the school as outlined below.

If a discipline note goes home from a teacher or head of school, I understand that I need to work with my child on changing their behavior through the heart, by encouraging them to seek forgiveness.

If my child continues to incur infractions, it will be clear to me that I need to deal more seriously and consistently with my child. I also understand that my child will be dealt with in accordance with the discipline policy outlined in this handbook and that I will need to meet with the Lead Teacher or administrator in cases of excessive disciplining issues to work out a plan designed to correct my child’s disruptive behavior.

If my child continues to remain unresponsive to correction, I understand that my child may be subject to a disciplinary hearing as outlined by the discipline policy of this handbook. I also agree that if my child is subject to a disciplinary hearing before the school board for excessive office visits or for any extreme ungodly behavior that impedes school culture, that I will abide by the board's decision. If the school board decides to suspend or expel my child, I understand that Tuition will not be reimbursed.

I understand that the teachers at Firm Foundations Academy Northwest aim to educate the whole person and will keep the wellbeing of the student in mind. Therefore, all efforts will be made to not impede grading as it may affect my child’s next steps.

By enrolling my child in Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, I understand that no matter the special needs of a student, behavior that falls into the category of “serious discipline case” including: unsafe behavior that endangers others, or overt moral issues will be addressed through a discipline hearing and not excused due to the special need. However, I understand the important mission to

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special needs children. I understand that Firm Foundations Academy Northwest will notify me if my child is exposed to unusual behavior(s).

SECONDARY STUDENT HONOR CODE As a secondary student at Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, I commit to the following: 1. I will do my best in my academics by a. Submitting homework on time b. Preparing for examinations c. Being prepared for class d. Taking notes e. Keeping an organized binder 2. I will be an example to younger students by a. Being respectful to those in authority b. Loving those around me in the way I dress, act, and speak c. Following the dress code and dressing modestly d. Aiding those around me who are struggling e. Being wise in my relationships with those of the opposite sex 3. I will honor God by a. Not gossiping b. Not lying c. Being a good steward of my time and the school’s resources

HEALTH & WELLNESS LUNCH Students will bring packed lunches to be eaten in our multipurpose room. Please pack lunches that do not have to be heated or refrigerated. Please also alert us of any allergies your child has so we can accommodate as needed and alert other families (if the allergy is very severe). At Firm Foundations Academy Northwest, we value health and wellness, so please keep this in mind when packing lunches, as your young students will be learning about nutrition, a balanced diet, etc. Water is the 22

only beverage allowed at lunch. When you sign up for FFA-NW you may be in a nut free class. You will be notified if your child’s classroom is nut free.

SNACKS Parents are welcome to send an easy to eat snack for mid-morning. Water is the only beverage allowed to accompany snacks.

HEALTH RECORDS Firm Foundations Academy Northwest does not require information regarding immunizations. Firm Foundations Academy Northwest should be notified of any severe allergies or health concerns.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES Firm Foundations Academy Northwest administration is willing to administer any over-the-counter medication to the children in their care only with authorization and written permission (form provided) from the child’s parent or guardian.

Prescription medication can be administered only when the following conditions are met: 1. The medicine is brought to Firm Foundations Academy Northwest in its original container by the parent and is delivered directly to the designated administrators. Under no circumstances should a child handle his or her medication.

2. A note from the prescribing doctor is provided that states dosage, frequency, and a list of possible side effects. Pharmacy-printed information may be accepted in lieu of a doctor’s note.

Firm Foundations Academy Northwest reserves the right to refuse the responsibility of prescription administration for any reason. If this occurs, we will be happy to accommodate parent visits during the day for the purpose of medication administration.

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ILLNESS POLICY In consideration of your young student’s wellness, and in preventing the spread of illness to your child’s classmates and teachers, a young student should be symptom-free a full 24 hours from the following before returning to onsite classes: ● Fever - Temperature of 100 degrees or above without the use of fever-reducing medication ● Vomiting/Diarrhea ● Rash ● Persistent Cough If your child has pink eye (aka conjunctivitis) or symptoms of pink eye please keep him/her home until symptoms have resolved. Symptoms include pink/red inflamed sclera (white area), milky discharge, crusted eyelids along the eyelash line and/or swollen areas around the eye. In the event that you have your child seen by a physician and it is determined that the infection is bacterial in nature and if your child is put on antibiotics, your child may return to school after being on antibiotics for 24 hours and no discharge is present. Pink eye is very contagious and can spread rapidly in a school environment.

ACADEMIC SCHEDULE CALENDAR The Academic Calendar is located on our website at https://firmfoundationsacademy-nw.com/ an in ClassReach.

DAILY SCHEDULE Drop off is between 8:10 and 8:30, school begins at 8:30.

School ends at 3:00 PM. Students must be picked up no later than 3:15 PM. School is held on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

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ENROLLMENT POLICY Regarding Candidates for Admissions

All children are welcome to apply for admissions; we do not discriminate on race, gender, or religion.

Our statement of faith, mission, and vision are clear. Our aim is to Disciple students: teaching them all that Jesus commanded.

Children diagnosed with a learning disability are welcome to be a part of Firm Foundations Academy Northwest so long as they can meet, or be assisted to meet, the discipline standards of the classroom, discussions, and daily routine.

Families applying for admissions should have a desire to receive this form of education. We do not mind assisting parents in fostering this desire, but the student needs to at the very least be “willing to be made willing” to be Discipled.

ENROLLMENT PROCESS 1. General Inquiry 2. Interview Request 3. Admissions Interview 4. Assessment of Student 5. Application 6. Enrollment 7. Tuition Agreement

PART-TIME STUDENTS Firm Foundations Academy Northwest desires to assist as many students as possible, but the structure of the school necessitates a community of students working together. For this reason, Firm Foundations Academy Northwest will not take part-time students unless unique circumstances are involved.

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ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND ADA STATEMENT Firm Foundations Academy Northwest admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin in all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

TUITION See our Tuition and Fee Schedule.

FINANCIAL AID Financial Aid may be requested but families are strongly urged to seek assistance from their family, churches, and friends prior to seeking financial aid. We are partnering in education with families and we are run solely on private funds, therefore every dollar not collected in tuition is a dollar that must be raised through donations. The best advocate for their child is the parent and family. But, we also don’t want finances to be the reason a family does not attend Firm Foundations Academy Northwest; therefore, financial aid may be offered under certain circumstances of extreme need. Multi -student aid may be available under specified circumstances. Families will need to apply for financial aid through a private shared link. Financial aid will be discussed through a committee appointed by the Board.

MAINTAINING EXCELLENCE Firm Foundations Academy Northwest will be seeking excellence by seeking consistent feedback on our teachers, our students, and our administration.

We want our teachers to become “master” teachers and as such will be investing in their further education through various classes, training, and enrichment. We will also be holding them to a high standard to ensure excellence in academics.

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1. Teachers will submit an academic mapping schedule by Sept. 1 of each year.

2. Teachers will submit a lesson plan with clear objectives by Friday of the week preceding. This will be reviewed by the lead teacher.

3. At the weekly meeting, teachers will explain how they met the objectives and discuss any struggling students or extra needs.

4. Every week the details of teaching these objectives and how they were met will be discussed; student progress is integral to this discussion.. This will be done for all core subjects and with all teachers.

5. The teacher will also need to present their plan on how to assess that students have learned and engaged with the objectives. This develops a very personalized education and holds teachers accountable for their instruction.

This outlined process keeps Firm Foundations Academy Northwest Board informed about all learning processes and the academic welfare of each student at the forefront of our objectives.

EVALUATIONS 1. Teachers will evaluate students regularly.

2. Teachers are evaluated unannounced throughout the year.

3. The administration will be assessed periodically by the staff.

4. Parents will evaluate the school annually.

SCHOOL GOVERNANCE AND ACCREDITATION Accreditation: While there is not an accrediting body for this model of school, we will seek excellence through constant assessment of our practices and pedagogy.

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The Firm Foundations Academy Northwest BOARD OF ADVISORS Because Firm Foundations Academy Northwest does not fall under a specific accrediting body, the Board of Advisors will consist of members whose function is to oversee that excellence is maintained.

Board Members, AYE 2025 Jennie Higgins Mark Hillenbrand Brittany Jeffries Tom Wiser Appendix A

Board of Advisors Policy Adapted from Robert’s Rules of Order – the Basics (https://www.pta.org/docs/default-source/files/training/course-tools/president/english/roberts-rules-o f-order-basics) Board Chairman (President): ● Calls meeting to order ● Clarifies the verbiage of a question ● Calls on members for discussion ● Must remain impartial: To remain impartial during debate – the presiding officer must relinquish the chair in order to debate the merits of a motion and may not chair the meeting again until after the motion has been voted on, tabled, or dismissed ● Votes only to create or break a tie (or 2/3 for matters requiring a 2/3 vote) – exception: the presiding officer may vote on any vote by ballot ● To introduce business in proper order per the agenda ● To recognize speakers ● To determine if a motion is in order ● To keep discussion germane to the pending motion ● To maintain order ● To put motions to a vote and announces results Vice-Chairman: functions in the chairman capacity if the Board Chairman is absent.

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Board Secretary: takes minutes at all board meetings and sends the minutes out to the board within one week following the board meeting.

Treasurer: reviews all financials prior to the meeting presents Proforma statement Order of the board meeting: Meeting is called to order by chair Minutes are read from prior meeting Minutes are approved or amended ( If corrections were made to the minutes, the minutes are then approved as corrected.)

Treasurer’s reports are read & discussed The Dean of Students and Teachers gives a statement on the “cultural pulse” of the school

• Recommendations, bylaws, rules, resolutions, budgets, and audits are adopted.

• Reports are filed.

• Resignations are accepted.

• Bills and minutes are approved.

• The treasurer's statement is neither approved nor adopted; but after questions are answered regarding any item as reported, it is placed on file for audit as stipulated in the bylaws.

• Motions are recorded as “adopted” or “lost.”

• Motions are put in writing and cannot be changed without discussion by at least ⅔ of the board that held the majority vote on the original decision.

The following principles will apply to all board meetings: • Justice and courtesy for all • Maintenance of order • Consideration of one item at a time • All sides get heard • Ability for each member to provide input • Majority rule • Scriptural truth must be foundational to all decisions • All members have equal rights, privileges and obligations The following method of discussion will apply to all board meetings: 29

• No person can speak until recognized by the chair • Personal remarks during debate are out of order • Only one question at a time may be considered, and only one person may have the floor at any one time • Members have a right to know what the immediately pending question is and to have it restated before a vote is taken • Full and free discussion of every main motion is a basic right • A quorum must be present for business to be conducted The following decision making process will apply to all board meetings: • A majority decides a question except when Scriptural truth is being compromised, if a member claims that Scriptural truth is in question, then an outside group of three pastors that are in alignment with our statement of faith must be brought in to examine the question.

• A 2/3 vote is required for any motion that deprives a member of right in any way (e.g., cutting off debate) • Silence gives consent. Those who do not vote allow the decision to be made by those who do vote.

• The Chair should always remain impartial: ●

A formal proposal made to bring a subject before amendment – Before the vote is taken on a motion, it may be amended by: • Striking out words • Inserting or adding words • Striking out words and inserting others in their place

The following will apply to all board meetings: Every board meeting must have formal minutes taken, recorded, submitted for record keeping and submitted to all board members within one week of the board meeting.

• A member must obtain the floor by being recognized by the chair • Member makes a main motion • A motion must be seconded by another member before it can be considered • If the motion is in order, the chair will restate the motion and open debate • The maker of a motion has the right to speak first in debate • The main motion is debated along with any secondary motions that are debatable.

• Debate on subsidiary, privileged and incidental motions (if debatable or amendable) take precedence over debate on the main motion and must be decided before debate on the main motion can continue.

• Debate is closed when a discussion has ended 30

• The chair restates the motion, and if necessary clarifies the consequences of affirmative and negative votes • The chair calls for a vote by asking “All in favor?” Those in favor say “Aye.” Then asking “All opposed?” Those opposed will say “no” • The chair announces the result The following will apply to all board members: • No member may speak until recognized by the chair • All discussion must be relevant to the immediately pending question • No member can speak more than twice to each debatable motion. The second time takes place after everyone wishing to debate the motion has had an opportunity to speak once • No member can speak more than ten minutes or as decided by members. Many PTAs limit debate to three (3) minutes per speaker by general consent at the beginning of the meeting.

• All remarks must be addressed to the chair – no cross debate is permitted • It is not permissible to speak against one’s own motion (but one can vote against one’s own motion) • Debate must address issues not personalities – no one is permitted to make personal attacks or question the motives of other speakers • The presiding officer must relinquish the chair in order to participate in debate and cannot reassume the chair until the pending main question is disposed of.

• When possible, the chair should let the floor alternate between those speaking in support and those speaking in opposition to the motion • Members may not disrupt the assembly • Obtain the floor – properly • Speak – clearly and concisely • Obey – the rules of debate and most of all, be courteous! That’s always in order!

In Making a Motion: Members make the motion. I move that…

Another member seconds the motion (without recognition). Second [or] I second the motion.

The chair states the motion and opens debate. It is moved and seconded that… Is there any debate? Or Are you ready for the question?

After the debate concludes, the Chair restates the motion and puts the question to a vote. The question is on the motion to…

Those in favor of the motion say “aye.” Those opposed say “no.”

The Chair announces the result of the vote and what action will be taken. The “ayes” have it, and the motion is adopted. We will [stating action to be taken]. The chair continues with the next business in 31

order. Common methods of taking a vote: General consent: "If there is no objection, we will…” (Pause) “Since there is no objection, we will…” Voice vote: “As many as are in favor, say “aye.” As many opposed, say “no.” The “ayes/noes” have it and the motion is adopted/lost.” Rising vote (not counted): “Those in favor will rise. Thank you, be seated. Those opposed will rise. Thank you, be seated. There is a majority (or 2/3) in the affirmative and the motion is adopted.” Or “There is less than a majority (or 2/3) in the affirmative and the motion is lost.” Methods of amending by striking out: “I move to amend the motion by striking out the word “Denver.” By inserting: “I move to amend the motion by inserting the word ‘Las Vegas’ after the word ‘Portland’ and before the period.” By striking out and inserting: “I move to amend the motion by striking out the word ‘$35’ and inserting the word ‘$50.’”

Appendix B

Administrative, Teacher Salaries & Qualifications Great teachers are not just educated. They are personable, command respect, engage students, and they are passionate about their subject and their pupils equally. Firm Foundations Academy Northwest is not only looking at these traits but copious knowledge as well as a deep relationship with Christ. This person is worthy of good wages. This said, Firm Foundations Academy Northwest will seek to provide a solid income for teachers they hire.

Disclaimer The reader should take notice that while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided herein, Firm Foundations Academy Northwest reserves the right to make changes at any time without prior notice. Parents will be notified of any changes to the handbook that occur during the current academic year. Firm Foundations Academy Northwest provides the information herein solely for the convenience of the reader and, to the extent permissible by law, expressly disclaims any liability which may otherwise be incurred.

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