Christus Victor Handbook 2023-2024

Christus Victor Classical School Parent / Student Handbook 2023-2024

We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Romans 15:1

OUR MISSION

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EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY

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Our Educational Distinctive EDUCATION FOR THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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OUR DISTINCTIVE

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OUR CULTURE STATEMENT OF FAITH CULTURAL ISSUES UNIFORM POLICY LADIES GENTLEMEN CHRISTUS VICTOR PHILOSOPHY OF DISCIPLINE DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES *OFFICE VISIT PROTOCOL EXCESSIVE OFFICE VISITS SERIOUS TRANSGRESSIONS MISSED HOMEWORK ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM DRESS CODE VIOLATION

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EDUCATION SCHEDULE OUR STRUCTURE CORE DAYS: LIMITING SUBJECTS

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Methodology HUMANITIES ART MUSIC SCIENCE MATHEMATICS PHILOSOPHY OF GRADING GRADING POLICY INDIVIDUAL GRADES GROUP PROJECT GRADES MATHEMATICAL GRADING POLICY SCIENCE GRADING POLICY LATIN GRADING POLICY

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HUMANITIES GRADING POLICY HUMANITIES GRADING SCALE EXAMPLE FAILING AND RETAKES

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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL CORE DAY ATTENDANCE TARDIES

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PARENT COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT

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PARENT HONOR CODE (signed in ClassReach) 23 SECONDARY STUDENT HONOR CODE (secondary students will sign with head of school) 24 HEALTH & WELLNESS LUNCH SNACKS HEALTH RECORDS ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES ILLNESS POLICY CHILD SAFETY POLICY

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ACADEMIC SCHEDULE CALENDAR DAILY SCHEDULE

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ENROLLMENT POLICY

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ENROLLMENT PROCESS PART-TIME STUDENTS

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ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND ADA STATEMENT

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TUITION FINANCIAL AID

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MAINTAINING EXCELLENCE EVALUATIONS SCHOOL GOVERNANCE AND ACCREDITATION

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Christus Victor Classical Leadership Structure

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OUR MISSION Mission: In partnership with parents, we disciple students with rigor and mercy–for Christian thinking and living– through classical education where Christ is in all and above all.

Motto: Discipling souls that will never die, for a Kingdom that can never be destroyed.

Our Deep Hope: Our deep hope is that our students would embrace all of Christ for all of life in this age and the age to come all for the glory of God. Meaning, that God would use our students to build and expand his Church, disciple the nations, re-build and preserve institutions and culture for a godly society, and tear asunder Satan’s strongholds so that the whole earth is covered with the knowledge of the glory of God, and students receive God’s commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

OUR PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION God-centered Integration of All Things Because all things are from God, all things are through God, and all things are to God (Romans 11:36), our discipleship of students reflects that God is the one thing that integrates and unites every realm of knowledge and every human endeavor.

Praise is the Purpose of All Knowledge Jesus is the ultimate aim of our education because He is the ultimate aim of our life. (Psalm 73:25-26, 28; Philippians 4:4; Psalm 33:1) The Trivium as “how to think” While each stage in a child’s development presents unique opportunities, they ought to be trained how to think from an early age using the whole Trivium: Know truth (Grammar) Discern truth (Logic) Communicate truth (Rhetoric) Age

Trivium as ‘Stages’

Trivium as ‘How to Think’ - our view1

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Grammar 100% - Logic 0% - Rhetoric 0%

Grammar 60% - Logic 30% - Rhetoric 10%

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Grammar 0% - Logic 100% - Rhetoric 0%

Grammar 20% - Logic 60% - Rhetoric 20%

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These percentages are not meant to convey a rigid or precise ratio of the elements of the Trivium.

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Grammar 0% - Logic 0% - Rhetoric 100%

Grammar 10% - Logic 30% - Rhetoric 60%

Rigor with Mercy We hold high standards while at the same time understanding God has given unique abilities to each child. (Isaiah 64:8) Christ glorified and magnified in all of life The Lord must be enjoyed in secret and magnified in public for all to see. (Psalm 34:3; Psalm 37:4; Psalm 67:4) or The joy of the Lord is for private, family, church, and public life. (Psalm 34:3; Psalm 37:4; Psalm 67:4) Urgent pursuit of truth Our society is in bondage because truth has been muddled, obscured, or altogether lost. The urgent pursuit of truth is indispensable to recovering true freedom. (John 8:32; John 17:17) Rhetoric with a purpose Persuasion per se is not the goal, but the value of persuasion is found solely in the object of persuasion. We love the world by persuading them of the Truth. (2 Corinthians 5:11a) Wisdom that chooses the best end and the best means Wisdom concerns not only the end result, but also knowledge coupled with doing what the Lord desires and thereby the means to wisdom are just as important as the end result of wisdom. (Proverbs 4:5-7) Depth and Mastery over Breadth and Exposure Too often depth of study and mastery are the first casualty in the noble desire for students to study a wide breadth of disciplines. Our commitment is to depth and mastery in fewer endeavors, giving students the most vital tools to gain breadth over the course of a lifetime of learning.

EDUCATION FOR THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Christus Victor Classical School aims to teach students of all ability levels through solid Christian pedagogy and materials. Because we are able to take both conventional and unique learners (even those diagnosed with Autism) our program is very distinct. We offer classical teaching as input but only expect classical output baked on the gifting of each individual student. Our teaching is done in a

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one-room style, setting where we implement the trivium and move from the concrete to the abstract 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; we will seek professional advice, pray, and consult with invested parties to come up with the best decision for the student and community.

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.

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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. Fewer subjects which allows more depth and mastery.

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

5. The teacher as the curriculum.

OUR CULTURE STATEMENT OF FAITH The Bible We believe that The Bible is the inspired Word of God, absolutely sufficient and without error in all that it says, and the only final authority to guide the conscience of the Christian in all matters of faith and practice (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3; Psalm 12:6; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Isaiah 8:20; 40:8).

The Nature of God We believe that God is the only holy, self-sufficient, all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present, good, just, loving, wrathful, merciful, faithful, and kind Creator and Sustainer of all that is; that He perfectly ordains all of the affairs of history and that He does all for His own glory (cf. Isaiah 6:3; Psalm 50:12-15; 147:5; 139:7-10; Exodus 34:6-7; Genesis 1:1; Hebrews 1:2-3; Ephesians 1:11; Isaiah 48:11).

We believe that this God is the Trinity – one God in three co-eternal, simultaneous persons, equal in essence, yet distinct in role and relationship: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (cf. Matthew 3:16-17; 28:19; 2 Corinthian 13:14; John 1:14, 18; John 15:26; Galatians 4:6).

Sin We believe that the first man violated the law of God, and through this abuse of his will, plunged the entire human race into sin, death, and judgment, so that we are all born into a state of rebellion against God and helpless to make any move toward God apart from grace (cf. Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-24; Romans 3:10-12, 23; 6:23; Ephesians 2:1; Romans 8:7-18; 1 Corinthians 2:14).

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The Gospel We believe that the God-man, Jesus Christ, took on flesh, came into history to perfectly obey the law and perfectly pay the penalty for sin on behalf of His people, that He therefore lived a sinless life, died a death as a substitute for sinners, and rose bodily on the third day vindicating His deity and His work on the cross (cf. John 1:1-3, 14; Matthew 3:15; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:13; John 10:15; Hebrews 7:26; Isaiah 53:4-6; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Romans 4:25; Acts 2:24).

We believe that sinners are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in the merits of Christ alone. This means that the only way that spiritually dead enemies of God can be saved is if God does it as a gift, through our trusting in the Son’s finished work on the cross, at which point God imputes His righteousness over to our account (cf. Ephesians 2:8-9; Acts 4:12; Ezekiel 36:26; Philippians 2:13; Deuteronomy 30:6; Acts 16:31; John 5:24; Philippians 3:9; Romans 4:5).

We believe that the Holy Spirit alone causes sinners to be born again so that we repent and exercise saving faith, that He not only indwells every believer, but that He also empowers us for service, giving us gifts for building up the body, and that He transforms our desires and actions so that we are made more like Christ every day (cf. John 3:3-8; 6:63; 2 Timothy 2:25; Philippians 1:29; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 12:4-11; 2 Corinthians 3:18).

The Church We believe that there is one church – holy, apostolic, and universal across the world and throughout history. This church is the bride and body of Christ and it exists to glorify God through the uncompromising preaching of the gospel and passionate expansion of His kingdom in this age (cf. Ephesians 2:11-22; 4:4-6; Ephesians 5:22-32; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; 6:19-20; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8).

The Last Judgment We believe that Jesus is coming again in the glory of His Father and with His angels to bring the saints together with Him and judge the world. This is the consummation of all things in which this age passes away, and the age to come sees the wicked sentenced to everlasting judgment with the devil, and the righteous brought into everlasting fellowship and joy with God (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Acts 17:31; John 5:22, 28-29; Matthew 25:31-46).

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CULTURAL ISSUES Christus Victor Classical School 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 sexes, male and female. Both sexes reflect God’s image, and the proper enjoining of one man and one woman in marriage (Gen. 2:18-25) reflects Christ’s relationship to his Church (Ephesians 5:22-33).

Christus Victor Classical School will not compromise these truths no matter how maligned they are by culture. We know that it is possible to have healthy discussions of these issues in a way that respects the image of God in all people regardless of their opinion while not forsaking the truth.

UNIFORM POLICY Please CLICK HERE to see Uniform Policy

PHILOSOPHY OF DISCIPLINE The Bible gives parents, teachers, elders, etc. both the authority and mandate to discipline children. It also sets forth the purpose of discipline: the conformity of the disciple to the law and character of God (to the glory of God and the joy of the disciple). Morality, good behavior, and proper affections are objective and derived from God himself. The goal in both positive and negative discipline is to engage the whole student – his intellect, affections, and will – toward godliness. The grace of God is necessary to move a student from mere outward obedience to a delight in the law of God which is the essence of obedience. Therefore, discipleship is to be undertaken with great fear, trembling, and prayer: God alone can bring heart change and fruit from the efforts of parents, teachers, and authorities.

PRINCIPLES OF DISCIPLINE 1.

Biblical discipline will generally be received well by the student when the authority demonstrates: Love, Patience, Grace, Mercy, Dedication, Affection, Attention, Involvement.

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Biblical discipline is not administered in anger, but in love and self-control.

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Biblical discipline is aimed at the affections via the intellect. Aiming at the will alone can achieve behavior modification.

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Negative discipline should be as public or private as the offense.

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No amount of written rules could apply God’s moral law to the lives of students within the setting of Christus Victor; students are encouraged to learn how to apply God’s law themselves.

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Articulating rules as a framework for discipline to students helps them by example to apply God’s law themselves. It also helps them to see the gravity of their actions.

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Parents partnering with Christus Victor to positively discipline their child necessarily must also partner with Christus Victor to negatively discipline their child. For a parent to retain sole negative discipline of their child undermines the authority of Christus Victor to positively discipline.

PRACTICE OF DISCIPLINE ● First transgression observed within the same day/class by a faculty member: ○ The faculty member will explain why the behavior is unloving and encourage restitution and forgiveness between the parties involved. A public transgression will call for a public apology and a private transgression will call for a public apology. ● Second transgression observed within the same day/class by a faculty member: ○ The faculty member will help the student make their action right again through forgiveness or restitution and it will be noted that this was the second time for the same transgression. A public transgression will call for a public apology and a private transgression will call for a public apology. ● Third transgression observed within the same day/class by a faculty member: ○ The faculty member will send the child to the Dean of Students for an office visit with information specifying the issue. *Office visit protocol (see below) will be implemented. ○ The Dean of Students will notify the parents through ClassReach of what occurred and the discipling process that happened.

OFFICE VISIT PROTOCOL The Dean of Students, after discussion with the student may use one of the following consequences pending the student: 1. Cleaning a. Picking up trash b. Cleaning bathrooms c. Vacuuming and or sweeping

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d. Cleaning desks, walls, white boards, etc. e. Cleaning outside 2. Physical endurance a. Wall sit b. Running laps c. Push ups 3. Writing a. A note on what the student did wrong b. A note asking forgiveness 4. Other a. Loss of privilege(s) b. Repetition and practice of proper or expected behaviors c. Being sent home d. A consequence or discipline plan particularly suited to the student and situation as agreed upon with the parent(s)

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 The Christus Victor Classical School School. 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 TRANSGRESSIONS 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

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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 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.

MISSED HOMEWORK 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.

ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY Use and possession of personal electronic devices (i.e. phones, smart phones, portable gaming devices, smart watches etc.) by students is prohibited on campus.

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. ● Cristus Victor 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 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 If the secretary notices a dress code violation he will inform the Dean of Students, 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.

EDUCATION SCHEDULE Christus Victor Classical School offers a 3-day core course model (with an optional Monday/Friday add on pending interest). Students are placed in learning groups based on their reading, comprehension and writing 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 CORE DAYS: 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 Math Science Humanities (Language, History, Literature, Writing) Music & Art as a part of the culture

Methodology God is the Subject in every subject (field of study or realm of inquiry) 13

God did not design humans to learn about His universe divorced from Him. He is the main subject in every field of study. He is the greatest artist, astronomer, mathematician, logician, scientist, grammarian, historian, sociologist, philosopher etc.

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 A thorough understanding of the humanities enables a person to see both causes, correlation and conclusion. As we navigate history, literature and theology students discern good and evil, and truth from lies. The voices of the past speak wisdom and discernment into the future. Figures such as Socrates, Aquinas, or Screwtape, navigating their world, reveal how both good and bad philosophies impact civilization. Theologians, such as the apostle Paul, Augustine, or Schaeffer, show us “How Should We Then Live.” This is humanities at Christus Victor and the integrated approach that we take equips students to see Truth as a whole rather than in fragmented parts. We rotate through eras of time so that students dive deep into themes and ideas while comparing it to the world we live in today. To study the humanities is to study the image bearers of God and to study the image bearers of God is to know more about God and the story He is writing.

ART Visual art should both imitate God's beauty in creation and should make us long for a redeemed world.

Art is rhetoric, it is the outward expression of our worldview. Discernment in art as well as skill in drawing are an important part of Classical education. Art helps us "see" what is, and Scripture reveals what will be, these two combined lay the foundation for truth, goodness and beauty as students develop their competence and understanding through visual art.

MUSIC Christians should be a singing people, singing engages the soul and thereby transcends us beyond this world. Music is holistic. It involves rhythm, senses, the mind, memory, and community. Discernment in lyrics and training an ear for the beautiful will be integrated into our learning. Singing together, building skill in vocal technique, and fluency in music are foundational to our pedagogy and our theology.

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NATURAL SCIENCE What is *natural science? It is the discovery of God’s creation after Him. We aren’t discovering something unknown in our process of discovery but discovering what God has created. Therefore science is the process of uncovering truth in creation, the how, why and what of all of God’s creative order.

PSALM 19 The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.

Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.

There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard.

Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.

In them he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy.

Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat.

This is our ultimate Philosophy of Science, that the study of God’s creation reveals His handy work.

Science should instill wonder and curiosity at the “how” of nature while understanding the magic of creation. Ultimately, the purpose of studying science should help equip a Christian to fulfill the Genesis mandate of dominion. The true study of science informs our worldview and does not stand in opposition to faith but declares God’s eternal power. *Natural Sciences include (not an exhaustive list): the study of all living things (Biology, botany, zoology), geology, physics, astronomy, and chemistry.

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MATHEMATICS Take the most basic math problem: 2 + 2 = 4. Consider how this one problem puts on display the attributes of God! 2 + 2 = 4 is true. It is true by necessity.

2 + 2 = 4 is true at all times. It is eternal.

2 + 2 = 4 is true in all places. It is omnipresent.

2 + 2 = 4 never changes. It is immutable.

2 + 2 = 4 is understood only by persons. It is personal.

2 + 2 = 4 is in harmony with the created order. It is beautiful.

What are all of these qualities? They are attributes of God. In other words, when we do even the most basic math problem we are confronted by God!2 This doesn’t mean that the non-Christian can’t believe in 2 + 2. But the deep truth of mathematics cannot be fully understood without understanding who God IS. Math at Christus Victor will not only dive deeply into the art of mathematics but will urge students to see the attributes of God as they seek the truth of answers in the study of mathematics.

PHILOSOPHY OF GRADING GRADING POLICY Grades at Christus Victor Classical School 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 Christus Victor Classical School, 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.

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Cf. Vern S. Poythress, Redeeming Mathematics: A God-Centered Approach, (Wheaton, IL.,: Crossway, 2015)

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INDIVIDUAL GRADES Christus Victor Classical School 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 Christus Victor Classical School 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.

LATIN GRADING POLICY Latin is taught to build vocabulary and continue to grow English as well as Latin grammar skills.

Assessments will be based on these concepts and points awarded for the purpose of revealing mastery.

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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 EXAMPLE 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 18

● 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 ● 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 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.

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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL Students are able to arrive between 8:30 and 8:45 AM. Students are released at 3:00 PM. Students need to be picked up no later than 3:15 PM in the afternoons.

Earlier arrival or later pick up will incur an additional fee of $5.00 for every 15 minutes a parent is late.

CORE DAY ATTENDANCE Christus Victor Classical School has intentionally set its vacations, schedule, and structure to allow important time for families. By registering a child in Christus Victor Classical School, 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 *5 academic days 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. Cases, where absences go beyond 5 days, will be reviewed by the Education Council.

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 5 academic days - the equivalent of 2 weeks): please get pre-approval from the head of school. *Emergency situations will obviously be taken into consideration.

TARDIES A student who arrives later than 8:45 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.

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PARENT COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT At Christus Victor Classical School, 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 Headmaster 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, Christus Victor Classical School policy, or philosophy, communicate with the Headmaster. 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 (signed in ClassReach) I am placing my child as a student at Christus Victor Classical School 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 Christus Victor Classical School.

Part of loving God and neighbor means being on time, present and respectful. Christus Victor Classical School 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 21

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 Christus Victor Classical School faculty and staff during school events. I also understand that I will be ultimately responsible for my child’s behavior while at Christus Victor Classical School 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 Headmaster 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 Christus Victor Classical School 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 Christus Victor Classical School, 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 Christus Victor Classical School 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

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endangers others, or overt moral issues will be addressed through a discipline hearing and not excused due to the special need.

SECONDARY STUDENT HONOR CODE (secondary students will sign with head of school) As a secondary student at Christus Victor Classical School 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 are aware.

Please do not pack sugary and/or caffeinated drinks because of how difficult they are to clean up after as well as the negative impacts they have on the learning process.

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

HEALTH RECORDS Christus Victor Classical School does not require information regarding immunizations. Christus Victor Classical School should be notified of any severe allergies or health concerns.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES Christus Victor Classical School 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 Christus Victor Classical School 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.

Christus Victor Classical School 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 for 12 hours from the following before returning to onsite classes: • Fever - Temperature of 101 degrees or above without the use of fever-reducing medication • Vomiting/diarrhea 24

• Persistent Cough NOTE: If your child has a contagious illness such as strep or pinkeye, you must provide the Headmaster with a physician’s note upon returning to onsite classes.

CHILD SAFETY POLICY All faculty & staff receive criminal background checks every two years, and are required to participate in a Child Safety Course.

The “More Than Two Rule” of student/faculty gatherings is our standard protocol. During one-on-one pullouts, clear visibility will be maintained at all times through an open door or window.

Faculty may not initiate or facilitate any private or isolated types of communication with students that might be interpreted as unprofessional. All faculty communication with students shall be through the Messages system in ClassReach where parents are automatically copied.

ACADEMIC SCHEDULE CALENDAR The Academic Calendar is located on our website and can also be accessed through ClassReach.

DAILY SCHEDULE Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are our core academic days and an optional Monday/Friday program is available. We meet from 9:00-3:00 PM.

ENROLLMENT POLICY Regarding Candidates for Admissions All children are welcome to apply for admissions; we do not discriminate on race, 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.

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Children diagnosed with a learning disability are welcome to be a part of Christus Victor Classical School 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.

ENROLLMENT PROCESS 1. Interview Request (linked to website) 2. Admissions Interview 3. Assessment of student 4. Application 5. Tuition Agreement 6. Enrollment

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

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND ADA STATEMENT Christus Victor Classical School 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 Please see our TUITION GUIDE

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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 Christus Victor Classical School, 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 privately shared link. Financial aid will be discussed through a committee appointed by the Board.

MAINTAINING EXCELLENCE Christus Victor Classical School 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 Christus Victor Classical School Board informed about all learning processes and the academic welfare of each student at the forefront of our objectives.

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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 Governance: Christus Victor Classical School is a ministry of The Well Church. The Education Council governs most functions pertaining to the administration of the School. The session (elders) at The Well Church make appointments to the Education Council.

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, Christus Victor Classical School 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. Christus Victor Classical School 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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