KCA Handbook

Kingdom Christian Academy Handbook 2022-2023

18919 HWY 301 N. Starke Fl 32091 Ph. 904-964-4673 Fax.904-964-4624 admin@kcaknights.com

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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 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."

CULTURAL ISSUES Kingdom Christian Academy 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 the Biblical meaning of “marriage” described in Scripture. (Gen. 2:18-25).

Kingdom Christian Academy is committed to a healthy discussion of this issue in a way that values all those of other opinions, yet does not compromise our values. Our ultimate goal is Christian unity within the parameters of the Apostles’ Creed and the truth of Scripture.

OVERARCHING CULTURE When God made humans, He made us in his own image, a community 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 Kingdom Christian Academy, 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.

Mission The Mission of Kingdom Christian Academy School Kingdom Christian Academy serves families in the admonition of the Lord. Our integrated instruction accommodates various abilities, equipping students to discern and apply truth. ● We provide individualized learning within a school structure. ● We give families hope and support in the education of their unique learners, whether neurotypical, developmentally delayed, or on the autism spectrum. ● We provide rigor with mercy in the classroom through Christian and classical pedagogy.

EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY Christian • Compassionate • Classical Romans 15:1 states “We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.”

It is tempting, in the education world, to focus on academics to the extent that children have a limited experience outside of classroom walls. But if the apex of a Christian is to Love God and Love our neighbor, then we need to make sure that our education is not self-focused, but is instead a practice in humanity.

It is not that academics are unimportant, it is simply that we have created a sub-culture of small humans whose grade and grades become “who they are.” Aristotle spoke extensively of virtue. And although a pagan, he understood that a student who simply gained knowledge had not received an education.

At Kingdom Christian Academy, the Trivium, which pedagogically 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 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 an academic risk equipping them for responsibility and leadership in God’s Kingdom.

5 Distinctive terms Gifting

Relational

Integrated

Thematic

Trivium

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.

CONDUCT GUIDELINES To maintain the testimony of KCA, all teachers, staff members, and representatives of KCA are expected to conform to biblical standards of behavior at all times. . . . Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers tan example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity 1 Timothy 4.12 (ESV) We expect all students to conduct themselves in a manner that will produce the best educational environment for all students and teachers. All students enrolled in Kingdom Christian Academy should display good Christian conduct at all times.

OUR DISTINCTIVE

1. Very low student/teacher ratio, allowing truly individualized learning plans.

2. Integrated ages, where students move through milestones rather than age-related grades.

3. Fewer subjects 4. Minimal homework in the younger years with this expanding over time.

5. The teacher as the curriculum individualizing education

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 young student’s behavior, attitude, and physical disposition should contribute positively to the classroom environment and Kingdom Christian Academy’s value of shaping godly character. Our rule is simple for maintaining this disciplined atmosphere: “love your neighbor as yourself.”

Kingdom Christian Academy uses a structured discipline plan for the classroom while varying the consequences based on the frame 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, the standard remains.

ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY

Use of personal electronic devices (i.e. phones, smartphones, portable gaming devices, smartwatches etc.) by students is prohibited during school hours. 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. Teachers may ask that phones be put in a classroom basket. Any use of phones must be approved by the Dean of Students or the secretary.

● Use of laptops is permissible for secondary 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 Dean of Students. ● A third violation of this policy will result in a disciplinary hearing. ● Kingdom Christian Academy 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.

Plagiarism is defined as using another’s work without thanking them for the use.

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.

Dress Code & Violation

Modest apparel ● Shorts and Skirts four (3) inches above the knee ● No cleavage of bellies showing ● Pants are worn around the waist

● 3 fingers wide on tank tops ● No undergarments visible ● No tights or skin-tight leggings unless covered by long shirts ● No profanity, obscene pictures, no rebel flags, or anything offensive. ● No sheer clothing where undergarments can be seen. ● Holes in clothing above 4” must be patched or undergarment covering skin.

If any of the above are questionable, discretion will be determined by the administration. If the above guidelines are broken, alternative clothing will be provided.

If the secretary notices a dress code violation he will inform the Dean of Students, and the Dean of Students will notify parents through a ClassReach dress code violation form. After 4 dress code violations, an office visit will follow and an email will follow.

After the 5th within a semester, the student will be sent home. Subsequent dress code violations will require the Dean of Students to treat the violations as office visits in accordance with the discipline policy.

Drugs, Tobacco and Alcohol Policy & Violation

If the secretary notices Drugs, Tobacco and Alcohol violation he will inform the Dean of Students, and the Dean of Students will notify parents by phone form regarding any incident wherein a student is found using, possessing or selling ANY controlled substance, counterfeit controlled substance, or alcoholic beverage. After the first violations, the student will be sent home. Subsequent substance abuse violations will require the Dean of Students to treat the violations as office visits in accordance with the discipline policy.

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

1. If a student is overtly disrespectful to authority an immediate office visit will follow 2. 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.

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 documented accordingly.

5. If a third infraction occurs the teacher will send the child to the Dean of Students for an office visit with information specifying the issue. a. The Dean of Students will notify the parents through email of what occurred and the discipline given.

6. HOMEWORK a. Any missing homework will be entered as a “0” in ClassReach. After the third “0” or third poor grade, the parents will be notified. The late assignment policy is 10% grade reduction the first day, 20% reduction the second day, and 1 percentage point for any day thereafter. A standing “0” will mean the assignment was never submitted.

SECONDARY STUDENT DISCIPLINE PLAN

The rule is to love God and love your neighbor.

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

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

3. If a student has not completed homework the teacher will notify the parents and the Dean of Students.

4. HOMEWORK a. A missed assignment will be entered as a “0” until submitted, and the late percentages will apply: 10% for not being submitted, 20% for the 2nd day,

and “1” thereafter. A standing “0” will mean the student never submitted the work.

Office Visit Protocol The Dean of Students may discipline in one of several ways pending the student: Cleaning Picking up trash Cleaning bathrooms Vacuuming and or sweeping Cleaning desks, walls, whiteboards, etc.

Cleaning outside Physical endurance Wall sit Running laps Push-ups Writing A note on what the student did wrong A note asking forgiveness Other Loss of privilege(s) Repetition and practice of proper or expected behaviors Being sent home A consequence or discipline plan particularly suited to the student and situation as agreed upon with the parent(s) ● If an office visit occurs a discipline note will go home from the Dean of Students 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 Dean of Students that the student’s character is not improving over time and/or is becoming worse to the detriment of the school

culture, the Dean of Students will meet with the parents and they will come up with a plan to resolve the issue. The Dean of Students will also meet with the parents in cases where the student exhibits a lack of repentance or lacks interest in attending Kingdom Christian Academy. The Dean of Students may, at his discretion, allow for additional meetings with the parents if the previous discipline plan to help the student was unsuccessful. 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 Dean of Students determines that the student’s behavioral issue still cannot be corrected through the discipline plan(s) generated by the meeting(s) with the parents, then it will be considered a “Serious Discipline Case”.

Serious Discipline Cases

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): ● ● ● ●

Excessive Office Visits (see section of the same name above) Unrepentant, consistent, or serious disrespect of authority Unsafe behavior–endangerment to themselves or others Overt moral issues including (but not limited to): ○ Inappropriate touching ○ Substance abuse ○ Illegal activity

If the Dean of Students has determined that the student’s words or behavior constitute a Serious Discipline Case, the student will be subject to a discipline hearing before the school board. The discipline hearing will include the student, the parent(s), the teacher (if applicable), the Dean of Students, and school board members. At this point, 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.

Discipline Procedures

We desire that, as children are disciplined in our school, our criteria will be met and communicated in a loving way to the child. We also strive to maintain clear lines of communication with the parents to prevent serious problems from developing.

If parents have questions about a policy or disciplinary action, they should follow this procedure.

1. Give the staff the benefit of the doubt - realizing that your child's reporting may be emotionally biased and may not include all the information.

2. Realize that the school staff has reasons for rules and that we attempt to enforce them without partiality.

3. Call the school to get the facts straight and to offer your support.

4. If you have a question concerning a situation in the classroom, please contact the teacher first. Then, if there is no resolution, please contact the administration. All contacts should be courteous and respectful, and after school hours.

When a student interferes with the learning process of other students, it becomes necessary for the teacher to find effective ways to correct that student. These may be in-class discipline, student- teacher conferences or parent-teacher conferences. If the student continues to disturb others, the teacher will refer that student to the administration for disciplinary action. 9 The student will receive a discipline referral to take home for parents to sign and return.

This is the student's responsibility, and he/she has one day to return the referral. If it is not returned, parents will be called to confirm the referral was seen and discussed.

Every disciplinary situation is unique in nature. Consequences for misbehavior provide the best learning value when matched to the unique student and the unique situation.

Misbehavior will be handled with natural or logical consequences instead of punishment, whenever possible.

All discipline will be based on biblical principles, e.g. restitution, apologies, (public and private), restoration of fellowship, no lingering attitudes, etc.

1. Warning or utilization of teacher’s assertive discipline plan 2. Loss of Privileges

3. Detention table and work duty at recess 4. Parent conference with Teacher and/or Administration 5. In-school suspension (ISS): The student will be assigned to an isolated study area for the afternoon(s) 6. Out-of-school suspension: Any MAJOR violation of the school rules may result in a student being suspended from school for a period of time up to ten days.

Parents may be called to pick up their child. Students on suspension may not be on campus or at school-sponsored activities or field trips.

7. Expulsion: A student may be recommended for expulsion from KCA. This is the removal of the right of a student to attend our school for the remainder of the academic year. Any unused tuition is non-refundable.

School problems will be handled by school personnel. Criminal activity will be referred to the proper authorities.

OUR PROGRAM EDUCATION SCHEDULE

Kingdom Christian Academy 5-day option. Students are placed in learning groups based on their reading and math 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.

OUR STRUCTURE

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 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 ON CURRICULUM

At Kingdom Christian Academy, 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.

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, Modern times, and the United States Modern times. 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.

ART & MUSIC

Art and music should be interwoven into a robust study of the “image of God.” Therefore Kingdom Christian Academy 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 aim to 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, we provide the foundational fields of study necessary for 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 we aim to go a mile deep rather than a mile wide with mathematics understanding.

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.

PHILOSOPHY OF GRADING GRADING POLICY

Grades at Kingdom Christian Academy 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 Kingdom Christian Academy, grades serve three basic purposes: 1. To help students to improve 2. To determine the best placement level for a young student's academic ability 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.

INDIVIDUAL GRADES

Kingdom Christian Academy 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.

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 Kingdom Christian Academy 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 is 25% of the final grade Math practicums/projects are 25% of the final grade (group or individual) SCIENCE GRADING POLICY

Since science is taught through experiments, and discovery , this will be a participation and group project grade in the primary years and will move towards mastery grading through the various scientific fields of study in the secondary years.

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.

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

● ● ● ● ● ●

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

● ● ● ● ●

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

8

7

6 ● ● ● ● ● 5

0

Limited effort individually Grammatical mistakes compromised communication Standards for the work were not met Did not use words/delivery/writing style/ persuasion well A Christian worldview was not present

● Assignment should be re-done

● The assignment is not turned in ● Cheated on assignment ● Plagiarized

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.

Plagiarism is defined as using another’s work without thanking them for the use.

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.

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 7:30 and 7:55 AM. Students need to be picked up no later than 2:30 PM in the afternoons.

Earlier arrival or later pick up will incur an additional fee.

Self Drivers Self-driving on KCA campus is a privilege and must be approved by administration. ● Students are not allowed to loiter around their vehicles after arriving on campus. ● No other students are allowed to go to vehicles. ● After school hours students are to leave campus orderly. No fast driving and follow KCA entrance and exit outlet. ● No other students are to ride in a self drivers vehicle except when approved by parent and administration. ● A drivers license and insurance must be submitted.

The above privilege will be revoked if the above policy is not followed or if student tardiness is in excess.

Early Dismissal If it is necessary for a student to leave school during the day for an appointment, he/she must present a note, signed by a parent, at the start of the school day. The note should give an explanation of the circumstances and time of planned departure.

Any student leaving school grounds must sign out at the front office. If a student returns that same day, he/she must sign back in at the front office. All persons who come to pick up students during the school day must do so through the front office.

Release of Students We have a closed campus for the safety of our students and staff. No student is to leave the campus during the school day unless he/she has received special permission from the office.

Parents, please do not pick up your child early, except in extreme emergency situations, and at that time through the office only. A sign-out sheet must be signed by the parent listing the time, date and reason the child is being checked out.

All students must be picked up at the dismissal time of 2:30, and no later than 2:45.

Parents should wait in their vehicle for dismissal of students Emergency school cancellation In the event of a county or state wide emergency (etc. hurricane or flood) KCA will follow the instructions of Bradford County Management Services. This is only in the event of an emergency NOT the county scheduled days off or county closures due to incidents at county schools. Notification will be sent through Remind and posted on KCA’s Facebook Page.

ATTENDANCE

Kingdom Christian Academy has intentionally set its vacations, schedule, and structure to allow important time for families. By registering a child in Kingdom Christian Academy, the parent or guardian is agreeing to this schedule and it is loving to the community of students to be in attendance. Emergencies or important family time arise from time to time; therefore students have *10 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 of any absences.

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 10 academic days - the equivalent of 2 weeks): please get pre-approval from the Dean of Students.

● *There is no distinction between excused or unexcused absences because attendance for instruction is vital to the student’s progression. ● 1-10 Absences: No penalty. All assignments missed for excused absences will receive full credit as long as they are made up within the appropriate time limits as defined herein. ● 11-20 Absences: Student will be required to demonstrate mastery be earning a passing grade on the course exam in order to receive credit. If this is not completed, a grade of 59% (F) will be given with the comment, “Course credit withheld due to excessive absences.” ● 21+Absences: Students will not earn credit in the course. A grade of 59% (F) or the grade earned in the course (whichever is lower) will be given with the

*Emergency situations will obviously be taken into consideration.

TARDIES

A student who arrives later than 8:00 AM is considered tardy. 4 unexcused Tardies within a month will constitute a parent email. A 5th tardy will result in an office visit.

Subsequent unexcused Tardies will be treated as office visits in accordance with the discipline policy. ● If a student is not in his/her classroom at 8:00 he/she is considered tardy. ● If a student is tardy, he/she should not report to his/her classroom; a parent or guardian must escort him/her into the front office for admittance. If needed, office staff (not the parent or guardian) will escort him/her to class after issuing a tardy slip. ● The tardy slip given by the office will determine whether or not a tardy is excused or unexcused, not the teacher. A tardy will be excused if it is a situation that was completely out of the parent's control. Oversleeping and ‘running late’ are not an excused tardy. Loss of privileges will result after 3 unexcused tardies. ● Any school work missed as a result of an unexcused tardiness may be accepted for credit at the discretion of the staff.

PARENT COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT At Kingdom Christian Academy, 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.

Teachers may be contacted through ClassReach outside of regular working hours.

When addressing any concerns, parents should copy the Dean of Students 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, Kingdom Christian Academy policy, or philosophy, communicate with the Dean of Students. 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.”

Thursday Folders

Every Thursday, each student's "Thursday Folder" will be sent home to his/her parents.

It will contain tests for the week, noteworthy items, and newsletters. Parents are encouraged to read and go over with their children the work completed during the week and take notice of all information included in the folder. Folders should be returned empty the next school day. If a folder is lost, a fee will be charged to replace it.

News from the School

Each week a newsletter, the Round Table, will be sent home in the Thursday folders.

The newsletter will feature all the activities and upcoming events of our school and other pertinent information. It is very important that you read the Roundtable so that you are aware of all important activities at school.

Remind 101: Each parent will be required to sign up on the cell phone or e-mail site. In the event you don’t receive the Round Table communications, a text blast may be sent daily from the administration and teachers of important information. Information may also be viewed from Class Reach.

Visitors Visitors are welcome on our campus. However, to ensure the safety of our students and staff, visitors are required to sign in through the front office and be issued a visitor's badge.

Parents may not go to classrooms unannounced. By appointment, parents are encouraged to visit the school and any classrooms in which their child is served. We also cordially invite parents to meet their children for lunch. Whatever the reason for parents' visits, they must first sign in at the front office and be issued a visitor's badge.

Parents who visit during lunchtime may eat at the visitors' table with their child. We love such visits occasionally, but would discourage daily lunch visitations. It is important that your child get to eat with his/her classmates occasionally.

Volunteers You are invited to become a part of our volunteer program. Background check is required. Parents, senior citizens and high school students volunteer their time to help teachers and students in a variety of ways. Some areas of service include: tutoring students, reading to students, typing, computer data entry, lunchroom, art programs, filling Thursday folders, general classroom help, etc. Special skills are not always required. See the Head of School for more detailed information.

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 Kingdom Christian Academy, 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.

SNACKS

Children are encouraged to bring a healthy snack for mid-morning. KCA has a “Snack Shack” providing snacks, drinks, etc. for purchase if snacks or lunch are forgotten. You may set up a monthly account or send money daily for the time of purchase. Snack Shack accounts are to be paid every Friday and not to exceed $20.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES

Kingdom Christian Academy administration is willing to administer any over-the-counter medication to the children in their care only with authorization 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 Kingdom Christian Academy 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.

Kingdom Christian Academy 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.

ILLNESS POLICY

In consideration of your young student’s wellness, in addition, 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 ● Excessive nasal drainage NOTE: If your child has a contagious illness such as strep or pinkeye, you must provide the Dean of Students with a physician’s note upon returning to onsite classes.

Head Lice: Students who are found to have head lice (nits, eggs, etc,) must bring in either a doctor’s note stating that the child has been treated and is released to come back to school or proof of treatment done at home. An empty box from lice treatment is sufficient for proof.

Hygiene Parents are urged to assist children in practicing good hygiene, especially as it relates to bathing, brushing teeth, shampooing the hair, and the wearing of deodorant.

Due to the climate we live in, children's heads should be examined frequently and thoroughly in order to control the spread of head lice. Please notify the school office immediately if you discover your child has head lice. School-wide head lice checks are

conducted two to three times during the year. If head lice are discovered at any time, the child is sent home for treatment. Every effort is made to prevent embarrassment or ridicule to any child found having head lice.

Accident / Injury

We have a "clinic pass" procedure to facilitate communication with parents or guardians regarding children's accidents, injuries or illness. If we have knowledge of your child ever being hurt in some way or if he or she becomes ill, a multi-copy "clinic pass" will be filled out and a copy will be sent home to you in his/her backpack. Please keep your telephone number information updated at all times in case we need to reach you.

Student Health and Welfare

We realize that our effectiveness in teaching spiritual, academic, and emotional truths is largely dependent on the physical well-being of the child.

Teachers are required by law to report any suspicion of abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

Any information requested by verified DCF investigators will be given without consent from parents.

Hurricane Policy

In the event of hurricane/weather conditions, our school will consider the directive given to Bradford County Emergency Management Services. Notification will be sent through Remind and posted on KCA’s Facebook Page.

ACADEMIC SCHEDULE CALENDAR

The Academic Calendar is located on our website at www.kcaknights.com OR through ClassReach.

ENROLLMENT POLICY

Regarding Candidates for Admissions All children are welcome to apply for admissions; we do not discriminate on race, national, ethinc origins , gender, or religion. But 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 Kingdom Christian Academy so long as they can meet, or be assisted to meet, the discipline standards of the classroom, discussions, and daily routine.

Students 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.

Kingdom Christian Academy reserves the right to refuse admission of a student for academic reasons or behavioral tendencies that we believe would not be in the best interest of our student body.

ENROLLMENT PROCESS

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General Inquiry Interview Request Admissions Interview Assessment of student Application Enrollment Tuition Agreement

8. Withdrawal Procedures Families not completing the full school year must complete a Consent to Withdrawal form obtained from the school office. The administrative staff will inform you of the amount necessary for the final settlement of the tuition account. Grades will not be released to the parent(s) or to the receiving school until all financial obligations have been met and the signed withdrawal form has been returned to the KCA office.

If a student will not be returning the following year a parent needs to fill out the Consent to Withdrawal Form. This will assist the office with bookkeeping.

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND ADA STATEMENT

Kingdom Christian Academy 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.

School and Personal Property Each student is responsible for his/her desk area, books, etc. Students should take pride in their surroundings and pick up trash and deposit it in the trash can located in the classroom or outside area. Students shall not attempt to damage or steal private or school property. If a student is proven to have defaced school property, Administration will contact parents to discuss payment for damages.

Florida Statute 741 .24 states that parents of any minor, under the age of 18 and living with parents, may be liable for damage caused by said minor in any amount not in excess of $2,500.00.

Personal Items Students may bring cameras if approved by their teacher.

*Students who have cell phones must leave them turned off either in their backpack or lunchbox. Not in pockets.

Failure to follow this guideline would result in losing the privilege to bring a cell phone to school. Teachers may collect cell phones daily at their discretion. *Music playing devices must be left in the backpack and only used at the discretion of the teacher.

The school will not be held liable for any lost or stolen property.

NOTE: Smaller children may bring toys as permitted by the teacher. If teachers allow toys for special days, toys should remain in the student's backpack until the student is in his/her classroom.

Electronic Equipment: Students are not to bring to school any electronic equipment such as laser pointers.

TUITION

Please see our website for current tuition rates: www.kcaknights.com Enrollment is for the full academic year and no portion of the tuition paid or outstanding will be refunded or canceled due to absence, academic performance, accident, transfer, sickness, withdrawal, or dismissal from Kingdom Christian Academy, unless by express written consent by the director and board.

Tuition payments are due by July 1 or payable in 12 monthly installments beginning July 1.

A $25 returned-check fee will be added to any amount due should a check be returned.

Please alert us if there are any changes to your bank or account number during the academic year.

● Tuition amounts will be set by the board by February 1, of the preceding academic year. This amount will be announced to the families and posted on the website.

● Tuition will be an amount that is reasonable and attainable for the local Bradford and Union community. ● Tuition payment options: ○ Tuition will be payable in one lump sum with a discount offered. ○ Tuition will be payable monthly with a 12-month equal payment option beginning May 1st of the preceding year and continuing through to April of the registered academic year. ● Electives are optional at an additional cost.

Checks Paid to the School

All checks to the school should be made payable to Kingdom Christian Academy (KCA). If the name on the check does not match the name that you provided at registration time as the account holder's name please put the student's name in the memo line on the check, A $30 fee will be assessed for any check returned for any reason.

If more than three returned checks are received in an academic year, checks will no longer be accepted - payments will be required in cash or by money order.

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 Kingdom Christian Academy, therefore financial aid may be offered under certain circumstances of extreme need. Multi student aid may be available under specified circumstances.

1. Applicants will be categorized from the greatest financial need to the least financial need.

2. Financial need will be pre-designated based on a ratio of the number of family members to gross income (this will be done through the FACTS management software).

3. Financial aid will be discussed through a committee appointed by the Board.

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MAINTAINING EXCELLENCE

Kingdom Christian Academy 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.

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 Kingdom Christian Academy Board informed about all learning processes and the academic welfare of each student at the forefront of our objectives.

News from the School Each week a bulletin, the Round Table, will be emailed through ClassReach and sent home in the Thursday folders. The bulletin will feature all the activities and upcoming events of our school and other pertinent information. It is very important that you read the Round Table so that you are aware of all important activities at school.

EVALUATIONS

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Teachers will evaluate students regularly.

Teachers are evaluated unannounced throughout the year.

The administration will be assessed periodically by the staff.

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.

Disclaimer The reader should take notice that while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided herein, Kingdom Christian Academy 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. Kingdom Christian Academy 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.

PARENT HONOR CODE I am placing my child as a student at Kingdom Christian Academy 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 Kingdom Christian Academy.

Part of loving God and neighbor means being on time, present and respectful.

Kingdom Christian Academy 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 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 a dress code 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 Kingdom Christian Academy faculty and staff during school events. I also understand that I will be ultimately responsible for my child’s behavior while at Kingdom Christian Academy 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 Dean of Students in cases of excessive office visits 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 Kingdom Christian Academy aim to educate the whole person and will keep the well-being 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 Kingdom Christian Academy, I understand the important mission to special needs children. I know that with this may come exposure for my child to unique behaviors such as fits, undressing in inappropriate places (typical of autism), and or outbursts not common to most classrooms. I understand that Kingdom Christian Academy will notify me if my child is exposed to such a behavior, or if my child exhibits such a behavior. I also understand that, no matter the special need, 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. _______________________________________ Parent’s signature (guardian) Date ______________________________________ Printed name of parent (guardian) Date _______________________________________ Parent’s signature (guardian) Date ______________________________________ Printed name of parent (guardian) Date

STUDENT HONOR CODE As a student at Kingdom Christian Academy 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. _____________________________________________ Signature of student

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Parent/Student Signature Page Please sign and return this page to the office. By signing you are stating that you have read, understand, and will adhere to the content of the Kingdom Christian Academy Handbook. Please explain to your child their expectations covered in this handbook. If your specific question or circumstance is not covered in Handbook, please contact the office.

Date_______________ Parent Name_____________________________________ Parent Signature__________________________________

1. Student Name________________________________ Student Signature_______________________________

2. Student Name________________________________ Student Signature_______________________________

3. Student Name________________________________ Student Signature_______________________________

4. Student Name________________________________ Student Signature_______________________________