15 16 student parent hbook

2015-2016 Student & Parent Handbook

GATEWOOD SCHOOLS Eatonton, Georgia Campus

Academic Excellence Built upon a Christian Foundation

Eatonton, Georgia www.gatewoodschool.com

SY 2015-2016 Dear Parents / Guardians: The purpose of the Gatewood Student and Parent Handbook is to ensure that each student and his or her family is fully informed of the policies, expectations, and privileges provided to Gatewood students. In doing so, it is our hope that parents, students, and faculty will each have a smooth, successful, enjoyable school year. When questions arise during the school year, please consult your handbook first. Of course, there is no way every situation can be anticipated and addressed. Questions left unanswered by the policies contained within will be left to the discretion of the administration.

If parents have a concern or issue, please contact the person or people closest to the situation. While it may be tempting to “go straight to the top” with a concern, the response from the top will usually be to return to the people who have the most knowledge of the situation. If an issue cannot be resolved at the lowest level (directly with teacher or coach), it may be brought to the attention of the appropriate school’s director, then the Assistant Headmaster and Headmaster.

Open communications and continuing dialogue between home and school are necessary in developing trusting relationships that are necessary for optimal education of our students. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. I look forward to an enriching and rewarding year at Gatewood!

Sincerely,

Christopher M. Charles Headmaster

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Gatewood Schools Administrative Staff 139 Phillips Drive Eatonton, Georgia 31024 (706)485-8231 Chris Charles Headmaster ccharles@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 11

Jeff Decker Assistant Headmaster jdecker@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 20

Buster Douglas Athletic Director bdouglas@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 16

Jan Dodson Business Manager jdodson@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 22

Melanie Walls Director of Girls’ Athletics mwalls@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 15

Troy Burner Athletic Trainer tburner@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 19

Libby Haley H.S. Director lhaley@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 25

Lisa Milo Registrar & School Secretary lmilo@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 10

Joe DeLoach Guidance Counselor jdeloach@gatewoodschool.com Ext.31

Cristi Sheppard Admissions Director cmcelhenney@gatewoodschool.com Ext.13

Libby Rainey Advancement/Development Director lrainey@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 12

Marcina Lee M.S. Director mlee@gatewoodschool.com Ext. 14

Jill Turner (K-2 Dir) jturner@gatewoodschool.com Lisa McElhannon (3-5 Dir) lmcelhannon@gatewoodschool.com 706-485-8231

Lisa Charles Pre-School Director lcharles@gatewoodschool.com 706-484-1238 Ext 3

Amy Ferman Public Relations & Media Specialist aferman@gatewoodschool.com 706-484-1238

Cathy Mize Media Specialist cmize@gatewoodschool.com Ext.23

School Website

School Numbers

www.gatewoodschool.com

Main: 706-485-8231 Field House: 706-485-5066 Preschool: 706-484-1238 4

ROLE OF THE BOARD Gatewood Schools is an independent school, owned and operated by Gatewood Schools, Inc., a nonprofit corporation. All governing authority resides with the Board of Directors.

The Board of Trustees exists to create plans, to set policies, and to make decisions that will best ensure the viability of the school’s mission for future generations.

The Board is not involved with day-to-day operations of the school as its authority exists only when a board meeting is in session and a quorum exists. It lives in the future, concerning itself with those issues that impact the future viability of the school. The Headmaster is the sole employee of the Board and is responsible for running the school and making operational decisions on a day-to-day basis.

By-laws state that there may be from seven to nine board members elected for three year terms that expire on a 2-2-3 rotating basis. Directors due to rotate off may be retained if they are willing to serve and are selected by the remaining body of directors. In accordance with Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) recommendations and governing by-laws, board members are selected from qualified candidates who are nominated by members (individuals/families with enrolled children at Gatewood Schools). The Board of Directors is self-sustaining and makes final selections from individuals nominated.

The Board meets regularly the second Monday of each month and follows an agenda set forth by the Headmaster. Board members for the upcoming year are listed on the school’s website.

The responsibilities for Gatewood’s Board of Directors include: 

Supporting the Headmaster

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Setting policies that guide Gatewood Schools

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Developing a long-range plan that describes the goals for Gatewood’s growth and development

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Ensuring adequate finances and the responsible expenditure of capital

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TABLE OF CONTENTS GATEWOOD’S VISION, BELIEFS & HISTORY.........................

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GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION........................................

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Emergency Procedures and Health Policies: 9 Parent Expectations - Activities & Organizations: 12 Supervision: After School Care: 14 ACADEMICS.............................................................................

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ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT (Awards & Honors) …………………

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Extracurricular Eligibility...............................................

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SUPPORT SERVICES................................................................

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ATTENDANCE POLICIES.......................................................... 24 BEHAVIORAL CODE OF CONDUCT........................................... 26 HS/MS : Pg 27

LS: Pg 30

PS: Pg 31

TOBACCO, ALCOHOL & DRUG POLICY…………………………………..32 GENERAL SCHOOL REGULATIONS.......................................... 37 Field Trips, Lunches, Social Activities, Bus Regs UNIFORM DRESS CODE............................................................ 39 OTHER GUIDELINES/POLICIES................................................ 41 APPLICATION PROCESS............................................................ 43 Financial Aid…………………………………………………………….. 44 BELL SCHEDULE ……….............................................................. 45 2015 – 2016 YEARLY CALENDAR................................................ 46 EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ............................................ 47 ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY AND STUDENT-ATHLETE POLICIES..48 TECHNOLOGY/INTERNET USE POLICY..................................... 50 ANTI-BULLYNG POLICY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT…………………… 53 DRUG TESTING STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING ……………. 54 STUDENT & PARENT HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT……. 55 Parents’ Statement of Support …………………………………….. 56 GATEWOOD CORPORAL PUNISHMENT PERMISSION FORM… 57 NOTES PAGE ……………………………………………………………………… 58

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GATEWOOD’S MISSION, VALUES, VISION & BELIEFS Mission Statement The mission of Gatewood Schools is to educate students in a nurturing, Christian environment while instilling life-long characteristics of faith, truth, honor, loyalty and pride. Gatewood Schools will provide an educational experience that prepares students for post-secondary education and lasting success.

Core Values Faith, truth, honor, loyalty, and pride Vision for the School Gatewood Schools will continue a legacy of academic excellence built upon a Christian foundation in order to ensure student success in future pursuits to include education, life’s challenges, and the passing of truths to future generations.

Vision for Students Be all that God created us to be spiritually, intellectually, physically, and socially.

Statement of Belief We believe students should be taught in a safe, Christian environment in which learning is paramount, critical thinking and creativity are encouraged and preparation is made for future success. Opportunities shall be provided to develop the whole child spiritually, intellectually, physically, and socially in an environment in which mutual respect and responsibility are modeled, encouraged and expected.

History In the spring of 1970, a private school was begun on land donated by Mr. Mell Sammons. The first Gatewood Schools, Inc. board of directors included Mr. Walt Rocker, Mr. Tom Thompson, Mr. Dallas Veal, Mr. Hammond Adams, Dr. Tom Brown, and Headmaster, Mr. Melvin Charles. Plans for the new school were developed, and the families began working to fulfill their dream of an exceptional educational opportunity for their children. The school physical plant was constructed in just ninety days and paid for in cash. The school opened in September 1970, and continues to provide a quality education for the children of Eatonton and the surrounding counties forty-two years later. Subsequent additions to the school include a gymnasium/kindergarten building, Sammons Field, a science laboratory/cafeteria wing, a middle school building, a library/classroom building, baseball and softball fields, a professionally planned playground, a track/soccer complex, and field houses for boys’ and girls’ athletic teams.

In January 2012, the Redeemer Episcopal Academy formally merged with Gatewood Schools. Gatewood operated a campus at Lake Oconee from Jan 2012 to June of 2014, but consolidated operations on the main campus for the 2014-15 school year.

Gatewood faculty, staff, and parents continue to work together to enhance the 7

development of the “whole” child. Our curriculum is presented with a Christian emphasis. Each student is encouraged to excel academically, physically, spiritually, and socially. Over the years, the Gators have been state and region leaders in football, basketball, cross country, softball, track, baseball, wrestling, golf, tennis, swimming, cheerleading, one-act play, debate, and literary events. Our success of Gatewood is due to the commitment and hard work of the teachers, coaches, students and their families, friends, and our community at large.

Non-Discriminatory Policy Gatewood Schools firmly supports the principle that the admission of students, the employment of staff, the operations of the program, and the governance of the school be open to all who are qualified, regardless of race, gender, creed, color or national origin.

General School Information Accident Insurance The school provides accident insurance for all students. This is a secondary insurance policy that supplements a family’s insurance plan. If you do not receive a form for filing student accident insurance within two weeks after the student’s injury at school or in a school sponsored activity, please call the school office.

Annual Fund As is the case with all independent schools, Gatewood’s tuition covers only a percentage of the school’s annual operating costs. Gifts to the Annual Fund provide a significant amount of what is required to keep tuition costs down, while maintaining competitive teachers’ salaries and maintaining a state-of-the-art classroom for all students. Gatewood seeks and receives contributions from current parents, alumni, parents of alumni, grandparents, faculty and staff, corporations and friends to meet the Annual Fund goal each year. There is no set amount per family. However, the school seeks 100% participation by all, pledging and giving according to their means.

Capital Campaign Capital Campaigns are conducted periodically to provide significant funds for growth such as endowment, construction, renovation or extensive capital equipment purchases. Contributions are generally pledged over a three-year period.

Cell Phones At Gatewood Schools, we fully understand that we live in the age of technology, and we enjoy the benefits of advancing technology. We also understand the importance of communication with your child. However, due to these advancements it is increasingly difficult to monitor the activities of cell phones and smart devices that enable the student to use text messaging, cameras, and social media platforms during the course of class. While we will continue to allow our students to employ the use of technology to enhance their learning and academic growth, that use must be under the supervision and direction of our faculty. Due to privacy issues, students are not allowed to take photographs or make video and/or audio recordings while on campus unless it is done under the supervision of a teacher. Gatewood prohibits the use of cell phones and smart devices for communication and recreational uses during the entire school day. Students may use cell phones 8

outside the buildings before homeroom period after 3:00 PM. For high school students, phones should be left at home, locked in vehicles, or in wall lockers and are not allowed to be carried during the school day. Violation of this policy results in disciplinary action as described in the Behavioral Code of Conduct portion of this handbook. Students are subject to disciplinary action for any violations of this guideline to include the prohibition of use by that student for a period as deemed appropriate by administration.

Any information contained on the phone may be viewed by the administration. When collected from the student for a violation, only a parent or guardian of the student may pick up the cell phone from administration. Students who have cell phones taken away will not be able to get them back until the next school day and only after detention has been served.

Emergency Procedures Emergency Situations Parents are encouraged to periodically review with their children the school’s procedures and the family’s procedures for possible emergencies.

Emergency Numbers Notification of Medical Emergency and Accidents Parents and guardians should always leave instructions for being reached in emergency situations. School officials will make every attempt to reach a parent or guardian in the event of an emergency. It is essential that the school office have a contact number on file where one or both parents can be reached. A cell phone number and a relative or nearby neighbor’s number is also helpful. The Personal Record and Medical Information form providing this information must be completed and returned by the third day of school.

If the parent or guardian cannot be reached, Gatewood will notify the person(s) designated on the Personal Record and Medical Information form. This information can also be entered into record via RenWeb’s Webforms in the custodial parent section of ParentWeb. The Personal Record and Medical Information forms contain authorization and consent for the school, through a qualified person, to administer such first aid or other minor medical treatment as deemed best under the circumstances. All physical injuries will be examined as soon as possible. In case of an emergency requiring immediate medical care, the school, if unable to notify the parents, is authorized to have the child treated by a qualified physician at the nearest emergency clinic.

In an attempt to continue improvement to our notification systems, we have added a texting, emailing, or Robo-calling RenWeb module called Parent Alert. Based upon your preferences in RenWeb, we will send all emergency messages and updates via Parent Alert so that you or your designee is notified expeditiously when required in emergency-related situations.

Emergencies During School The safety of our students, faculty and staff are of utmost importance. As such, the school will prepare for potential emergencies each month as mandated by the State Commissioner of Insurance by conducting the following drills:

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Fire and Tornado Drills All classes regularly practice exiting through planned fire drill routes. If a student is somewhere in the building other than with a teacher during a fire drill, he/she should leave via the nearest exit and join his class in the assigned area. There are designated safe areas inside the building for each class during a tornado drill. Designated safe areas are posted in each classroom. A buzzer signifies a fire alarm. Three short rings of the school alarm followed by a short pause before being repeated several times signifies a tornado alarm.

Other Emergency Procedures Other emergency situations may require different actions to ensure safety. These may include evacuation or lock down actions depending upon the threat to our school.

Students will accompany their teacher to the designated areas. All classes will report to the grassy area across the street from the Lower School building. If the emergency necessitates the dismissal of school, parents may be required to pick up their children on Crestview Drive if the Phillips Drive entrance is not accessible. Parents will be notified via RenWeb Parent Alert when alternate pick-up sites are necessary. School and/or public safety officials will direct parents to the proper location.

Emergency Closing of School Severe weather, utility problems, health emergencies, or other emergencies may necessitate the closing of the school. In case of inclement weather or other emergencies, the Headmaster may make the decision to cancel school. You are advised to tune your radio to DOCK 103.9 FM, StarStation 100.7 FM, or TV to WMAZ-TV Channel 13, and WSB-TV Channel 2. Parents and students are asked not to call the school or school personnel at these times. When such closings can be foreseen, an announcement will be made as early as possible via ParentAlert text message to those who possess the ability to receive such messages.

Forms and Other Mailings While we continually strive to eliminate paper documents and forms through the use of web-based data, certain forms are still required and may be inspected. Gatewood occasionally will send mail to families containing notices of special events and activities, as well as developmental needs. At times forms may be sent home with the students. If forms require signatures and/or pertinent family information, please return signed forms in a timely manner.

General Medication Guidelines Prescription Medicine Prescription medicines needed by students during the course of a school day must be submitted to the high school director or the administrative office for safekeeping. Under no circumstances will students be allowed to retain prescription or over the counter medication on their person while at school. The student must report to the High School Director (high school students) or office (Middle School students and below) for dispensing of medication at appropriate times designated by physicians. When possible, parents are urged to request prescription medications that do not have to be administered during the school day.  Parents must send a note indicating the exact dosage and time to be given.  All medications must be labeled with the student’s name, physician’s name, and 10

medication name.  Parents having children who use epinephrine injections to treat life-threatening allergic reactions caused by insect bites, foods, medications, latex, and other causes MUST provide an Epipen exclusively for use the school.

Students may never share any medication, including over the counter medication, with another student.

Non-prescription Medications Tylenol will be given only if authorized when authorized by checking the “Authorize Tylenol” under each student’s medical information in RenWeb. Health Physicals and Immunization Records Students who participate in any after-school activity or sport are required to have a current Gatewood Health Physical and Permission to Participate Form completed and on file before being allowed to participate. Blank forms may be obtained from the Athletic Director.

In compliance with Health Department guidelines, all students enrolled at Gatewood must have a Georgia Certificate of Immunization Form on file in the Main office.

Students will not be allowed to enter school without this form.

Students entering 6th grade must have documentation of a second MMR prior to attending the 6th grade, along with Varicella Vaccine or history of Chicken Pox. Health Policy To decrease the spread of illness among students, any student who is sent home sick, or has become ill at home cannot return to school until:  He/she has been fever-free for 24 hours  Physician has cleared the student for return to school  He/she has been on antibiotics for 24 hours when prescribed by the physician. This is especially important if the student is being treated for strep throat, conjunctivitis (pink eye), or any other highly contagious illness. Any student showing visible signs of pink eye, including crusting of the eyelids will be sent home until resolved.  He/she has been free of vomiting or diarrhea for 24 hours. The student should be able to tolerate food and drink without recurrence of vomiting/diarrhea.  Head lice have been treated and all nits have been removed. Students with nits will be sent home for their removal.  It is policy that ill students will be sent home if they have a fever over 99.6, have vomited, or have had diarrhea. Students will be sent home for persistent nausea or pain unrelieved by over-the-counter medications.

Helpful Guidelines Here are some helpful guidelines to consider in making home-life positive and constructive for success in school.

1. Encourage your child to be enthusiastic about his/her schoolwork.

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2. Be sure your child schedules sufficient time for home study. Provide your student a suitable, quiet place to study and help him/her to establish a regular study pattern or schedule.

3. Have family agreements that are enforced regarding the use of telephone, television, computer, and other technology.

4. Be open with the teacher, and let the teacher know he/she has your support. Call or email the school and have the teacher return your call if you have any questions regarding your child, assignments, or clarification of any communication in writing from the school.

5. Be sure your child is in bed each night at a proper hour to ensure sufficient rest.

Internet Use Policy Gatewood faculty and students must adhere to guidelines in using the internet for academic and business reasons only. See the appendix for our Technology/Internet use policy.

Messages Gatewood operates with a very small office staff. Therefore, please avoid requesting to have messages delivered at school unless there is an emergency. In non-emergency situations, immediate delivery of messages cannot be guaranteed. Please do not email the office or a teacher regarding change of plans for your child’s after school transportation arrangements. Depending on workload and other responsibilities, email messages may not be read in a timely manner. Rather, call the office if transportation plans change.

Flowers and gifts will be delivered at the end of the day addressed to a student, faculty or staff member. The exception to this rule involves Valentine’s Day when deliveries are not accepted due to the number and administrative burden involved.

Parent Expectations A unique aspect of Gatewood Schools is that the family, not just the student, becomes a part of the school community.

Parent Activities and Organizations Open House: This very important meeting is held for all parents prior to the beginning of the school year. This is the time to receive helpful and necessary information from administrators and teachers pertaining to the new school year.

The Gatewood Association of Parents (The GAP): The GAP exists to provide a framework in which parents, teachers, and administration may work together to develop students academically, physically, spiritually and socially.

The GAP serves as a non-partisan organization that makes a united effort to attract new families to Gatewood Schools. It also supports the activities of Gatewood students, administration and faculty through parent involvement. It promotes Gatewood through selected fundraising efforts for the benefit of the entire school. Members include parents or guardians of students enrolled at Gatewood Schools and teachers of your children. GAP meetings are posted on the school calendar.

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Athletic Booster Club: Parents of student athletes are required to be a member of the Gatewood Booster Club. Minimum dues are $75 per family. This one-time fee enables students from a family to participate in athletics throughout the entire school year. Information is available from the Athletic Director.

Special memberships are available which entitle the member to special privileges including admission to all regular season home athletic contests. Please see a Booster Club representative for more information.

Personal Property While we hope and expect all students to operate in an honorable and ethical manner, it is advisable that all Gatewood personnel safeguard valuables at all times. Students are not allowed to bring expensive toys or electronic devices, large sums of money, or headphones to school. If computers, tablets or other approved electronic devices are used during the school day, students are required to secure these items at all times.

Publications Gatewood publishes the Gatewood Yearbook and the Gatewood Football Program. A newsletter is emailed to all school families bi-monthly. It contains articles written by the Headmaster, Directors, Coaches, other school personnel, and volunteers from support organizations. It is very informational, highlights the major events as they occur at our school, and it is an effective way Gatewood communicates with parents and families.

Sexual Harassment The administration of Gatewood School will not tolerate sexual harassment, or harassment of any kind, based upon any aspect of a person's personality or sex. If a student feels that he or she is being harassed, or treated in a manner that is disrespectful, the matter should immediately be brought to the attention of a teacher, Director or the Assistant Headmaster.

Structure Gatewood is divided into the Pre-School, Lower School, Middle School, and the High School. The Pre-School consists of grades K2 through K-4. Lower School is grades kindergarten through fifth. The Middle School is sixth through eighth grades, and the High School includes ninth through twelfth grades.

The Director of Advancement and Development coordinates Annual and Capital Campaigns and related events. Charitable gifts to Gatewood are received and processed through the school business office. Generally, these tax-deductible gifts consist of cash, securities, tangible personal property, real estate, bequests, and insurance and charitable trust arrangements. In order to assure tax deductibility and proper gift recording and acknowledgement, all gifts should be coordinated with the business manager. All requests for gifts and solicitations by faculty, student and parent groups must be approved by and coordinated with the Headmaster. Gatewood asks all families to participate in the Annual Fund and to support the periodic capital campaigns necessary to facilitate growth, as tuition in and of itself constitutes less than 75% of the operational costs of the school.

Student Injury during the School Day Students who sustain an injury during the school day are to be seen by the 13

administration and the Athletic Trainer, when possible. The administration will determine the response to the injury. This includes on-site treatments, contacting parent/guardian, and referral to a medical provider or facility if needed. If a student has a life-threatening injury, 911 will be called.

Supervision After School Care Program: Gatewood offers this program focused on Pre-K through 5th grade that enables families to pick students up later than the normal dismissal time. This service is provided for a fee with the after school care running from 3:00 pm until the student can be picked up, but not exceeding 5:30 pm. This service costs $65 per week per family. To participate, families must complete state required information forms to be maintained by the staff caregivers and front office of school. Early drop off in the morning enables families to drop children off as early as 7:15. This service costs $20 per week per family. Use of both services is $80 per week per family.

All parents having children 5th Grade and below, regardless of whether they use the service routinely, must complete the above mentioned forms to expedite planning should emergency care be needed. Additionally, periodic users must have given 24 hour notice through the school office to ensure that the adequate staffing for the day of use.

The cost for periodic services shall be $6 per hour per child. Final cost will be rounded to the nearest quarter hour.

Costs for the program will be billed monthly with tuition, and must be paid in full each month before being allowed to continue in the program for the following month. For late pick up (after 5:30 pm), parents will be charged $1 per minute. This fee will be paid directly to the caregiver(s) in total for their inconvenience.

Regular Before School Drop Off: In the preschool and lower schools, there will be a teacher on duty in the multipurpose/activity rooms beginning at 7:30 am. Students shall not arrive at school before this time and be left unattended outside.

Middle and high school students should report to the cafeteria if they arrive on campus before 7:45 am. There will be a teacher on duty in the beginning at 7:30 am. Students shall not arrive on campus before 7:30 am unless prior arrangements have been made with a teacher or administrator.

Regular After School Dismissal: All preschool and lower school students shall be picked up at 2:45 pm in front of their respective school building, unless the teacher has been notified that a middle school or high school sibling will supervise the student’s pick-up at the gym. Parents may choose to wait until 3:00 pm to pick up their preschool or lower school children if they have older children. Any lower school student not picked up by 3:05 pm must be signed out in the office of the school they attend. It is imperative that students are picked up on time so teachers may meet their after-school obligations to tutoring, meetings, supervision of extracurricular activities, etc. If not known or recognized as a person authorized to pick-up a child, a photo ID may be requested. Those picking up Pre-K 2, 3 and 4 children will sign a daily roster maintained by their teacher per state requirements.

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Telephone Students are not allowed to use the office phone during the school day to make unnecessary calls. Every attempt should be made to arrive at school with all items that will be needed for the day. All after-school plans should be approved at home before the school day begins. Students must obtain written permission from a teacher to use the school phone. Parents should keep calls to school requesting delivery of messages to a minimum.

Traffic Flow Morning Drop Off All traffic will turn between the gymnasium parking lot and the media center in the morning and afternoon drop off and pick up times. Middle school and High School students will be dropped off and picked up in along the loop around the high school parking lot. Preschool and lower school children will be taken around to the rear of the lower school and proceed along the road between the preschool and track. Preschool cars will drop off and pick up in the loop alongside the covered waiting area. Lower school parents will proceed beside the track and back to the front of the lower school building. They will proceed along the loop to drop off or pick up lower school children.

Preschool parents not needing to enter the lower school loop may pass cars in line and proceed toward the Phillips Road gate. Phillips Road will be on way during these times so that both lanes may be used in front to the lower school. Do not park in drop-off zones. Keep the line of traffic moving. If you must park to go inside at the lower school, park across the street or in the parking lot behind the school (facing the baseball field, as the spaces facing the mobile units are reserved for faculty). Parking in the front of the lower school building is prohibited except in the lined “VISITOR� spaces. For safety purposes, students must be picked up along the sidewalks.

Afternoon Pick Up Follow the same parking procedures as in the morning. There are staggered dismissal times. K2 through 5th grades are dismissed at 2:45 pm; middle and high school are dismissed at 3:00 pm. Parents may choose to wait until 3:00 pm to pick up their children if they have older children. Any lower school student not picked up by 3:05 pm must be signed out from afterschool care. It is imperative that students are picked up on time so teachers may meet their after-school obligations of tutoring, meetings, supervision of extracurricular activities, etc.

Parents must park in the designated areas, keeping the traffic lane open. Parents must not leave their car parked and unattended when in a traffic circle. If you have business at the school, please use the parking lot in the rear of the school, at the gym, or in the field across the road. Parking along the curb in front of the lower school is NEVER allowed.

For the preschool, please drop your child off at the covered waiting area on the side of the school building. If you have business at the preschool, please enter through the front door across from the baseball field. All must sign in before conducting business in the preschool.

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Volunteers Parent volunteers are valuable assets to the success of the school program, and we invite the parents to become a part of the volunteer program. If you are interested, be sure to contact the Headmaster, Director, or an officer of the GAP, Booster Club, or the Alumni Association. Parent Volunteers must sign-in at the office upon arrival and at departure.

Visitors Visitors may not be on campus during the school day except with special administrative permission. Parents are not to go directly to the classrooms during the school day. Please sign in at the respective schools (Preschool in the preschool office; Lower and middle school in the main office, and high school in the high school director’s office. Parents visiting campus MUST sign-in in the office and wear the name tag provided unless attending a school program in the lower school assembly hall. Visiting any other part of campus requires signing in at the main office. Items for students may be left in the office. Students are not allowed to have lunch guests other than parents or grandparents except with special administrative permission.

Academics Accreditation Gatewood Schools is a member of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) and Accredited with Quality by three highly reputable accrediting organizations: Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC), Southern Association of Independent Schools, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SAIS/SACS)(Also known as AdvancED).

Classroom Size Gatewood maintains a very favorable student to teacher ratio throughout all schools on both campuses. Our average class size for high school is seventeen. The average class size for middle school is seventeen. The average class size for lower school is sixteen.

The average class size for preschool is thirteen.

Curriculum Gatewood Schools’ curriculum is college preparatory and age appropriate. Curriculum guides by grade are published at the Gatewood website: http://gatewoodschool.com.

Faculty Gatewood seeks to hire and retain a highly qualified faculty. The vast majority of teachers hold advanced graduate degrees and certifications. Teachers’ contact information and professional credentials are noted on the website and on RenWeb. Grading System and Procedures Grading Scale Letter A B C F S - Satisfactory

Numerical 90 - 100 80 - 89 70 - 79 Below 70

Quality Points 4.0 3.0 2.0 0.0 16

N - Needs Improvement U – Unsatisfactory Middle and High School Academic Honor Roll Highest Academic Honors: 90 and above in all subjects Academic Honors: 85 and above in all subjects Highest Academic Honor Roll and Academic Honor Roll are determined for quarter one and quarter three by the grade at the end of the quarter. Highest Academic Honor Roll and Academic Honor Roll are determined for semester one and semester two by the final semester grade, after exams.

Grading procedures for each school are as follows: High School Grades run continuously for each semester. The first nine weeks grade is a mid-point grade for the first semester, and the third nine weeks grade is a mid-point grade for the second semester. The final semester grade is calculated by the overall average at the end of the semester counting 80% and the final exam 20%. For year-long term classes, the two final semester grades are averaged to determine a yearly grade, which is posted on the transcript and granted 1.0 Carnegie unit if the grade is 70 or above. If the final grade is below 70, no credit is granted. In semester classes, the final semester grade is posted to the transcript and is granted 0.5 Carnegie unit if the grade is 70 or above. Approved summer school credit recovery classes may satisfy up to two Carnegie units for previously failed classes. Upon successful completion of summer school, a grade of 70 will be posted on the transcript if the recovery course is successfully passed. The grade does NOT replace the failing grade for grade point average. All courses taken in lieu of normal semester classes must be approved by the Headmaster before they are taken in order for credit to be given.

Minimum requirements at the end of each grade level to progress to the next level are: 9th grade - 6 units 10th grade - 12 units 11th grade - 18 units 12th grade - 24 units to graduate Middle School Grades run continuously for each semester. The first nine weeks grade is a mid-point grade for the first semester, and the third nine weeks grade is a mid-point grade for the second semester. The final semester grade is calculated by the overall average at the end of the semester counting 80% and the final exam 20%. For year term classes, the two final semester grades are averaged to determine a yearly grade, which is posted on the transcript. Middle School students failing two or more subjects for the year will be retained at grade level.

For elective classes, grades for each nine-week period or semester period are independent of each other.

Lower School Grades for each nine weeks are independent of each other. Learning in lower school is a sequential process and passing or retention is determined by sufficient progress or lack 17

of progress in each area. An unsatisfactory grade in Math or Language Arts will result in required summer work. If a student receives a failing grade in Language Arts or Math for the year, it is required that the student completes 35 hours of documented tutoring during the summer. Lower School students failing two or more subjects for the year may be retained at grade level.

Middle School Final Exam Exemption Policy (2nd Semester only): Grades 6-8 In order to exempt, a student must meet the following criteria: 1. Student must have maintained an 85 average in all numerically graded subjects during the second semester.

2. Student must have a 90 average in the class being considered for exemption.

3. Students may exempt up to 3 classes of which they have a 90 or greater average in each.

4. Students are exempt from any exam for which they have a 95 or above average.

5. Students who exempt all exams will bnot be required to attend school on exam review days.

6. Students must have no more than 5 unexcused tardies and 2 unexcused absences to be eligible for any exemptions from examinations during the semester.

7. If the student appears before the Disciplinary Council during the second semester, the exemption privileges may also be denied as a portion of a punishment. * Eligible students who would like to take the final exam to increase their yearly average in a particular subject will be allowed to do so.

High School Final Exam Exemption Policy (2nd semester only)*: Grades 9-11 1. Student must have maintained an 85 average in all classes for the semester.

2. Students may exempt up to 3 classes of which they have a 90 or greater average in each.

3. Students are exempt from any exam for which they have a 95 or above average.

In order to exempt, a student in grades 9-11 must also meet the following criteria: 4. Student must have not more than 2 unexcused absences during the semester.

5. Student must have no more than 5 tardies during the semester.

6. Student must have completed all disciplinary actions prior to the week of final exams.

(Exemption privileges may also be denied by the Disciplinary Committee as part of a punishment.) * Eligible students who would like to take the final exam to increase their yearly average in a particular subject will be allowed to do so.

Final Exam Exemption Policy for Seniors A senior who has not had more than 2 unexcused absences or 5 tardies or any disciplinary actions for which the punishment has not been totally completed, as outlined in the above paragraph (#4), may exempt up to three exams if he/she is not failing a class. Seniors may exempt any two exams with a semester grade of 90 or above.

Seniors may also exempt one exam with a semester grade of 70 or above. *Eligible students who would like to take the final exam to increase their yearly average in a particular subject will be allowed to do so.

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Graduation Requirements Graduation requirements for Gatewood are as follows: 1. Students must receive 24 Carnegie units.

2. Students must complete the SAT or ACT at least once prior to graduation.

3. Students must meet attendance and disciplinary requirements.

The following graduation requirements for Gatewood meet and exceed the minimum requirements set by the Georgia Board of Regents of the University System for a college preparatory diploma. o o o o o o o o

ENGLISH (4 units) SCIENCE (4 units) SOCIAL SCIENCE (4 units) MATH (4 units) FOREIGN LANGUAGE (2 units) HEALTH/PE (1 unit: .5 each) BIBLE (2 units: .5 credit per year) ELECTIVES (3+ units)

TOTAL REQUIRED UNITS FOR GRADUATION: 24 or More Report Cards For grades 1-12, report cards or progress reports are issued each nine weeks. Progress reports are issued mid-grading period via email or RenWeb mail. In addition to the report cards and progress reports, teachers often send notes home, make calls, and schedule conferences to keep parents informed. Pre-school progress reports are sent home each nine weeks noting progress toward mastering age/grade appropriate learning skills.

Parents’ Web Gatewood uses a web-based school management system called RenWeb. RenWeb enables parents to access their family information via the Parents’ Web portal. Parents and family members can access a “snap shot” of academic progress and other important information via the internet by visiting the Gatewood Website (www.gatewoodschool.com), and clicking on the Parents’ Web Link. This is a very useful communication tool and can be accessed from any computer that has internet access. Login for ParentWeb can also be achieved directly from RenWeb’s website www.renweb.com using the login tab for parents. An abbreviated ParentWeb program is also available in a mobile app RenWeb Home free for iPhone and Android cell phone or tablet users.

Academic Achievement Awards/Honors Dual Enrollment or Move On When Ready: Gatewood Schools has a Move On When Ready (MOWR) agreement (formally known as Dual Enrollment) with GMC and Georgia College. However, students may enter into agreements with other institutions if approved by Gatewood Schools. Students who have a minimum of a 3.0 academic grade point average calculated only on college preparatory curriculum courses and are on 19

track to complete a College Preparatory diploma may be allowed to take college courses in lieu of core courses at Gatewood. These students must have SAT scores of at least 510 Critical Reading and 450 Math (or 23 English ACT and 18 Math ACT) at Georgia College or GMC. Regardless of section scores, a score of 970 with no score lower than 450 may be accepted. Gatewood offers MOWR classes in biology, literature, mathematics, and religious studies on its campus. Classes must have at least 5 qualified students to be offered. The MOWR program provides Gatewood with some control although we do have to strictly abide by college policy. Students will be held to the same standards as those already in college during all MOWR enrolled classes. All Gatewood Schools tuition and fees are required to be paid up to date in order for students to participate in this program.

Hall of Fame - The Gatewood Hall of Fame is one of the highest honors a senior can achieve at Gatewood. Selection by the high school faculty is based upon academic achievement, total school involvement, contributions to school and society, positive attitude, and exemplary conduct. These students exemplify the ideal Gatewood student in that they are trustworthy, respectful, and have a high sense of personal integrity.

Honor Graduates - Honor Graduates are seniors who have a cumulative numerical average of 90 or above in grades 9-12.

Jointly Enrolled Student(s) – With recommendation from teachers, guidance counselor and high school director, and upon permission from the Headmaster, students with exceptional academic abilities may be allowed to attend college their final two years of high school. Students will be enrolled as a Gatewood Student, but take all courses as a full-time college student. High school credit toward graduation will be earned simultaneously to the student completing their first two years of college.

Gatewood’s guidance counselor must pre-approve all courses taken in college to ensure the high school graduation requirements are fulfilled.

Frequently jointly enrolled students are at the top of their Gatewood class. Should they be ranked one or two after final grades are calculated for valedictorian or salutatorian, the Headmaster may choose to recognize more than one selection for each of the honored positions at graduation. As with Dual Enrolled students, Gatewood Schools has no influence or control over issues and difficulties that may arise as a full-time college student working toward joint credit for high school graduation. Additionally, all fees and tuition must be up to date in order for Gatewood to release required records and documents to the jointly enrolled college or university. According to GISA policy, jointly enrolled students are not allowed to participate in high school competitive extracurricular activities. Students must be enrolled and seated in their high school classrooms for over half the school day or 4 classes in the case of Gatewood Schools.

Junior Marshals – Two Junior Marshals are selected each year to lead the graduates in the processional and the recessional at graduation. These are students with the highest academic averages within the junior year as determined at the same time as honor graduates are named. These students wear robes during the formal graduation ceremony and are recognized in the graduation program. Their purpose is to assist in the conduct of the graduation ceremony and work under the purview of the Graduation Director.

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Middle School Honor Society - In grades six, seven, and eight, students qualify as members of the Gatewood Middle School Honor Society by achieving an overall average of 90 in the first three grading periods. Membership is evaluated on a yearly basis after the third quarter. Students should exemplify desirable qualities of behavior; cooperate and comply with school rules, teachers and administrators; demonstrate high standards of honesty; and show courtesy and respect for others and school property. Students will be evaluated by the Middle School Faculty Council, which shall consist of all current middle school teachers. Their majority vote determines membership.

National Honor Society - To be inducted into the Phoenix Chapter of the National Honor Society, a student must have a cumulative numerical grade average of 90 or better and meet the criteria set forth by the National Honor Society in the areas of leadership, service, and character. Students may be inducted after the second semester of the sophomore year, or any time thereafter that they meet the induction criteria. A special induction is made at the high school honors night for graduates who reach the required grade point average by graduation and have previously applied for this honor, but did not meet the GPA standard. These graduates are entered into the NHS and allowed to wear the distinctive stole as part of their regalia. Requirements are strictly adhered to since this is a highly respected, reputable organization. The Phoenix Chapter By-Laws further explain disciplinary/probationary measures as they apply to members.

President’s Award for Educational Excellence – This award is given to students in the fifth, eighth and twelfth grades who have a 90 cumulative average and score in the 85th percentile or higher on a nationally-normed test for the elementary, middle, and high school years respectively.

Salutatorian - The salutatorian is the senior with the second highest numerical average in grades 9 - 12. Final numerical grades for Honors, Advanced Placement and MOWR classes will be weighted by 2.5 points each when calculating final standing for this honor. The majority of the Salutatorian’s classes must be in the honors tract. The salutatorian must have been enrolled and attended Gatewood Schools for a minimum of the final two years of high school.

Scholastic Leader Awards - Each year this award is given to the student in grades 6 - 12 with the highest numerical average for the first three nine weeks including approved transfer credits received during the first semester.

Senior Favorites - Senior favorites are chosen by members of the senior class. Categories are: Best All Around, Most Likely to Succeed, Best Personality, Wittiest, Most Dependable, Most Spirited, Most Athletic, and Most Attractive.

Senior Superlatives - The high school faculty votes for senior superlatives using the following criteria: outstanding contributions to several areas of school life, leadership in clubs, athletics, or academics, and good character. Seniors will be asked to submit a resume of their high school careers for consideration for this award. The number of Senior Superlatives may not exceed 1/3 of the senior class.

STAR Student - The STAR student is the senior with the highest SAT score in one sitting (by the November test date of the senior year), and is in the top 10% or top ten (if class is smaller than 40) of his or her class. The star student chooses the STAR teacher.

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Valedictorian - The valedictorian is the senior with the highest numerical average in grades 9 - 12. Final numerical grades for Honors, Advanced Placement and MOWR classes will be weighted by 2.5 points each when calculating final standing for this honor. The majority of the Valedictorian’s classes must be in the honors tract. The valedictorian must have attended Gatewood Schools for a minimum of the final two years of high school.

Virtual School – Georgia Virtual School courses may be taken in lieu of, or in addition to mandatory courses toward graduation under certain circumstances. Students may receive credit for courses taken in lieu of classes that Gatewood offers only when a scheduling conflict exists and when approved by the Headmaster. Additionally, students who have an overall average of 85 or above may take virtual school classes as electives, to include advanced placement (AP) classes. All students taking AP courses will be recommended by the guidance counselor and approved by the Headmaster.

Gatewood has no control over grades received when taking virtual school classes.

Students must demonstrate self-discipline and the ability to work independently to ensure success. All virtual school courses must be taken during regular school hours either on an assigned school computer or personal notebook computer via the school network.

Extracurricular Eligibility / Enrichment Activities Gatewood offers a wide assortment of extracurricular activities in order to enrich students’ school experience. Since social integration is a vital part of a child’s education, we encourage all students to participate in any of the athletic, academic or social activities available. In order to compete in interscholastic athletics and literary events, a student must pass a minimum of five subjects each semester. The second semester credits determine the following year’s eligibility unless credits can be recovered during the summer. In accordance with Georgia Independent School Association, no more than two credits may be recovered via summer school programs in high school. For academic eligibility policy, see pages 48-50. See a list of the activities available on campus on page 47.

Homework Homework is considered to be an important part of the curriculum at Gatewood.

Homework usually fits into three categories: practice on skills learned in class, preparation for participation in the next day’s work, or enrichment and extension learning. It is the responsibility of the student to have his homework ready for each class. Parents will be notified if there are problems in this area.

Summer Reading Summer reading is required for all students at Gatewood. Specific guidelines are given to each grade level. The student is expected to have his book assignments ready when school begins in August.

Standardized Testing The Iowa Test of Basic Skills is administered in the spring of each year in first through seventh grades. The Cognitive Abilities Test is administered in the spring to kindergarten, third, fifth, and eighth grade students. The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) is given in the fall juniors. The Fall PSAT doubles as the National 22

Merit Qualifying Scholarship Test. The PSAT 10 and PSAT 9/8 will be administered to those classes in the Spring of the school year. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is given in the fall to seniors. Students should register online for the ACT and/or SAT. Register for the ACT at www.actstudent.org. Register for the SAT at www.collegeboard.com. Taking the SAT or ACT is a graduation requirement as either test is required for college admissions nationwide.

The Educational Records Board (ERB) will be used to assess writing at the end of each year. Currently, this program and assessment is reserved for the 5th and 8th grades.

Results will be used by teachers to evaluate student writing preparedness as they move from lower to middle and middle to high schools. This program for instruction and assessment is associated with the College Board, and will benefit students as they once they take the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) prior to high school graduation.

Textbooks and Workbooks Textbooks and workbooks are provided to the students. Students should develop a sense of responsibility for taking proper care of the books that are issued to them. They are required to use book covers (preferably of a sturdy construction) on textbooks throughout the year. In the event that a student loses or damages a book, he is required to pay for the book. Final grades cannot be issued until textbooks are returned or fines are paid. Books left unsecured and/or outside in the weather after school hours will result in disciplinary actions being taken after one warning.

Support Services Academic Assistance Students are encouraged to attend Flex Period tutorial sessions as needed. This period, Monday through Friday is time to ask questions, to clarify ideas, to practice or reinforce skills, or to make up work or tests due to absences. It is a time to provide individualized help, although the number of students in attendance on any given day will necessarily affect the amount of individualized attention students can receive. Any student having difficulty scheduling extra help should see the grade level Director, counselor or the Headmaster for assistance.

Academic Support In addition to classroom and subject area teachers, Gatewood has an academic support team of three full-time teachers on staff for those students who have been screened and possess support plans recommending special assistance. The team is available not only to assist students who experience minor difficulties, but also the extremely gifted students who need to be challenged beyond routine subject requirements. This school year we will also have a fourth teacher trained in Lindamood-Bell techniques. These techniques help develop the sensory-cognitive processes that underlie reading and comprehension. For those possessing learning challenges for which comprehension is impacting learning, Gatewood will use this new approach to help individual students internalize strategies to overcome difficulties. Contact the school counselor, academic support, or the Headmaster for more information.

Conferences Parents are encouraged to contact the teacher by email to set up an appointment for a conference as needs arise. Additionally, parent-teacher conferences are scheduled twice per year for the pre-school and lower school. Conferences will be required for students 23

who are experiencing serious difficulties. Parents of students who are doing well and are on track to meet or master educational standards may opt out of conferences upon coordinating with the classroom teacher(s).

Counseling and Guidance Gatewood provides a comprehensive guidance program. The counselor is trained to work with students, parents, and teachers. Individual and group counseling is provided throughout the year covering such topics as post secondary school choices, career choices, and personal concerns. The counselor sees students by appointment, referrals from teachers, and in emergency situations.

Email Email can be a useful tool, but should never be used to replace a face-to-face conversation for matters of serious concern or controversy. Email is not an effective method of communication for matters which require attention on the day the message is sent. Email may not convey the intended tone and affect and may cause the message to seem abrupt or confrontational when used in haste or anger. Therefore, issues of significant concern are best left to a personal meeting. Please make an appointment with a teacher or coach when there is an issue so that the situation can be quickly and efficiently resolved.

Media Center The media center is available during the school day for student use. Any student failing to return books will be charged the replacement cost of the books. Students will not receive report cards until fines have been cleared. Parents may wish to place a “Birthday Book” in the media center in honor of their child’s birthday. Forms are sent home at the beginning of school. The media center is essentially self-sustaining, and usually sponsors two Book Fairs each year to support its work. Participation is encouraged.

Attendance Policies Absences and Tardiness In order that students receive the full benefit of the educational opportunities offered by Gatewood, no student should be absent more than 20 days from any class (or 10 days from a semester class) regardless of whether the absence is excused or unexcused. When a student reaches the limit, the student is ineligible to receive credit for the class. This injunction applies to absences for any single class and not just for the school day. The cut off number does not include classes missed due to field trips or other school activities, which are not counted as absences. The student may appeal to a review committee. When a student has been absent over 5 days in a semester, the RenWeb system will automatically generate a notification or reminder of this policy to parents or guardians. No action is required upon receipt of a reminder, it is a friendly reminder for those who are not keeping track of attendance.

School Absence Policy 1. Parents must send a note to school the day a child returns after the absence. The note should explain the reason for the absence. A doctor’s excuse is preferred documentation to justify an excused absence when sickness is involved.

2. A parent’s explanation is not automatically an excuse. Excusing absences is the domain of the school.

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3. An excused absence will be granted for personal illness, death of a relative, established religious holiday, emergencies, and for educational purposes or other justifiable reasons as approved by the appropriate school Director or the Headmaster.

4. Planned absences, such as family trips, require prior clearance from the Headmaster or appropriate school Director. These type absences, especially if they last more than two days, are not advisable. It is difficult for a child to recover from missing instruction and such absences place additional burden on the teacher. The request must be submitted at least one week before the absence. If the absence is approved, the student is responsible to make arrangements to make up work with each of his/her teachers.

5. Seniors are allowed three college visitation days during first semester of their senior year. The request to visit a college must be made to the counselor in writing, one week prior to the visit (The counselor will notify teachers at least two days prior to the student's absence.) An official from the college must sign appropriate forms which the student shall provide to the counselor upon return. By exception and under unusual circumstances, the HS Director or Headmaster may approve requests in the third quarter. The fourth quarter is short for seniors and therefore, no visits are allowed during this period.

6. For athletic participation and perfect attendance, a student must be present the entire day, unless a doctor's excuse is provided and the student is present for at least four periods or half of the school day.

7. The student is tardy if he arrives after the bell rings at 7:55 am. Lower school and middle school students must sign-in at the office. High school students must sign-in with the high school Director.

8. Every fifth tardy will be recorded as an unexcused absence.

9. Unexcused absences or tardies will result in students not being allowed to make up class work, quizzes or tests and zeroes will be given for missed work. Students with more than 2 unexcused absences (MS and HS) will not be eligible for exam exemption in the second semester even if all other criteria are met.

10. Students are expected to be at school on time following any extracurricular activity. Exceptions are approved only by the Headmaster. Failure to do so results in a penalty.

Early Dismissal The preschool grades PK2-PK4 will maintain a sign out roster in the preschool building.

Written notes for early dismissal must be given to the homeroom teacher.

In the lower school (K5-5th grades), a written note for early dismissal must be given to the homeroom teacher. Parents must pick up their children in the main office and sign them out.

In the middle and high school, a written note for early dismissal must be approved by the school Director and given to the homeroom teacher. Middle school students’ parent must sign their child out at the main office. High school students will sign out with the high school Director. Students returning to school must sign in at the place where they signed out.

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Make-up Work Students in the Middle School and High School will have 3 days to make-up work missed during an absence. When work is not completed during this period, the grade of zero will be assigned. At the discretion of the administration, extended or hardship absences may justify additional time being given beyond the 3 day make-up standard.

Parent Notification of Absences Parents will be notified in writing when their student has exceeded five absences or tardies for the semester or ten absences or tardies for the year. By state statute, students may have no more than 10 absences per semester or 20 for the year, whether excused or unexcused. This includes “absence by tardy” unexcused absences. Only the Headmaster may provide a waiver to policy when extreme circumstances exist and school work is satisfactorily completed. Without a waiver, students may not receive credit for their current grade level. Parents will automatically receive an alert message via RenWeb when absences are reaching the above listed thresholds.

These messages are provided to ensure all parties are aware of attendance records. No action is required.

Behavioral Code of Conduct Athletics Gatewood takes pride in its athletic teams and programs that encourage student participation, support, and total physical effort on the fields of play. For the Athletic Policy, see page 48.

Honor Code Gatewood expects its students to maintain high standards of behavior both in and out of school. Gatewood endeavors to instill in its students healthy habits of mind and body, a clear sense of values, and good moral judgment. Certain behaviors must be exhibited in order to achieve these objectives. Students are expected to be:

TRUSTWORTHY RESPECTFUL (of faculty, other students, and all personal and school property) APPROPRIATE (in dress and attitude) COURTEOUS KIND (in the classroom and during athletic events) Gatewood believes that honor and integrity are paramount in the educational process.

Therefore, all Gatewood students must sign a pledge prior to the start of school each year to adhere to the following code: “I will neither lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate any of these type acts. I will be academically honest in all of my work and will not tolerate academic dishonesty of others.”

Definitions:  Lying – falsifying the truth  Cheating - giving or receiving unauthorized information on graded material.  Stealing – taking another person’s property without their consent 26

 

Academic Honesty – performing all academic work without plagiarism, cheating, lying, stealing, altering or receiving unauthorized or illegitimate assistance from another.

The Honor Code is an integral part of the school. Students, faculty, and staff members are expected to strictly enforce its provisions. All honor code violations will be referred to the Head of School.

Disciplinary System for Grades 6-12 Class I offenses consist of minor violations that will be administered after repeated warnings. Points will accumulate for Class I offenses only, and only when consequences have not been completed.

Class II offenses carry set consequences for each offense listed. There are no demerits associated with this class, and no association with Class I offenses.

Class III offenses are the most severe of the various classes. Specific consequences are listed for each of these offenses as they are for Class II. Time spent on the school bus, field trips, and all school-sponsored activities is considered school time whether on Gatewood’s campus or not. Therefore, points may be accumulated during those times.

Teachers may also award merits for superb performance or exemplary actions observed at school. Merits cancel out demerits.

Demerits for Class I offenses are recorded by each nine-week grading period and will be assigned as follows: Class I Violations – assigned one demerit: Four offenses (Warnings) of any type result in the first disciplinary demerit and a demerit for every offense thereafter: o Repeatedly failing to comply to corrections by teachers or administration reference any of the following violations: o Actions with disregard to common manners or social graces o Chewing gum o Classroom disruptions o Failing to bring required materials and supplies to class o Dress code violations o Eating or drinking (other than water) in classrooms o Using vending machines other than break, lunch, or after 3:15PM o Out of class without a pass o Report card, progress report, or other papers sent home not signed on time o Unsecured textbooks/electronic equipment left outside after 6PM daily 

Consequences are as follows: o 4 demerits – After school detention o 5 demerits – 2nd after school detention o 6 demerits – Parent notification o 7 demerits – In School Suspension (ISS) o 8 demerits – Disciplinary Council meeting and 2nd ISS

Class II Offenses and Consequences:  Offenses: 27

o Having a Smart phone or cell phone on one’s person during school hours. o Using tablets or personal computers without permission and supervision o Using social media to communicate during school hours (tweeting, posting, reading, etc.) o Leaving computers, tablets or other high dollar value items unsecured/unattended. o Disrespect to peers (abusive language, etc.) o Insubordination or disrespect to teachers o Misbehavior with a substitute teacher in charge o Poor attitude/intentional failure to comply with directions o Public display of affection o Profanity o Skipping class o Character infractions: Dishonesty or failure to adhere to teacher instructions o Consequences o First offense = After School Detention o Second offense = 2nd After School Detention o Third offense = ISS o Fourth offense = Disciplinary council and Out of School Suspension Class III Offenses and Consequences:  Cheating – Automatic next day ISS  Bullying– Automatic ISS and hearing before Disciplinary Council  Fighting– Automatic ISS  Disrespect for the dignity, rights, safety and well being of others– Automatic ISS  Viewing inappropriate video content on school or personal computers– Automatic ISS  Gambling– Automatic ISS  Hazing– Automatic ISS  Reckless driving– Automatic ISS  Sexual harassment– Automatic ISS  Theft– Automatic OSS  Truancy of any nature– Automatic ISS  Vandalism of school or personal property – Automatic OSS  Substance abuse (alcohol, drugs, and tobacco) – See Pages 27-32  Weapons – Automatic OSS and possible Expulsion  Expulsion (in recurring or extremely serious cases) The Disciplinary Council consists of the Headmaster, Assistant Headmaster, Directors of the High School and Middle School, the School Counselor, an Athletic Department representative, and other individuals as selected by the administration. The student may choose an additional faculty member, as well. A minimum of five members of the Disciplinary Council must be present at each meeting.

It is not possible to anticipate, nor is it feasible to list all the infractions of discipline that may occur. The administration reserves the right and has implied authority to impose penalties for violations of policies stated herein 28

as well as for other behavior not prescribed in the handbook. Only the Headmaster or his/her designee may administer corporal punishment (see Corporal Punishment Authorization within this handbook).

Suspension In-School Suspension (ISS) may be utilized as deemed appropriate by the administration.

Students are not eligible to participate in any extracurricular activity on the day ISS is served. ISS will be served the day after the offense. An offense on Friday results in a Monday ISS. Students in ISS are expected to do all classwork and homework. If the work is a graded assignment, the maximum grade given shall be a 70. The student is responsible for getting notes and other information given in class from another student. Teachers are not expected to spend time during study hall or after school assisting a student to make up work missed due to ISS. The Administration (or designee thereof) shall administer tests and quizzes scheduled for the day the student is in ISS during the regular class period in which the student would normally take the test or quiz. The maximum grade that can be given on a test or quiz taken during ISS is 70.

Students who have served ISS will not be granted extra days to study before taking a test or quiz upon their return to class. (i.e., a student is in ISS on Monday and Tuesday and a test is given on Wednesday; the student must take the test on Wednesday.) It is the responsibility of the student to know what happened in each class while he was in ISS. A student-athlete who is assigned to ISS will miss his next scheduled extracurricular competition/game for each activity in which he is currently involved. (“Current� means that organized practices have begun for the season or literary event.)

Expulsion Expulsion is dismissal from Gatewood Schools. This punishment is reserved for conduct that the school considers an extreme violation of acceptable behavior. The following incidents will be considered by the administration of the school as meriting expulsion.

1. Possession of weapons, explosives, pyrotechnics, or other dangerous and potentially destructive items.

2. Destruction to property of students, faculty, and staff. (The student involved in destruction must make restitution and is responsible for all repairs.)

3. Violation of Bullying Policy (Any students who engages in harassing behavior toward another student or staff member at anytime, whether on campus or not, will be subject to immediate expulsion.)

4. Actions or behavior by students or parents that the administration deems unacceptable may result in student expulsion.

5. See Tobacco, Alcohol and Drug Policy Section in the appendix for violations that may lead to expulsion.

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6. Any terroristic threat made toward the school, staff member, or student which imposes a hostile school environment may lead to expulsion after a meeting before the disciplinary council.

7. Chronic violations of Gatewood School Conduct Code (excessive classroom disruption; flagrant disrespect of teachers; threat, etc.)

REPEATED VIOLATIONS OF ANY SCHOOL RULE MAY RESULT IN EXPULSION FROM GATEWOOD SCHOOL.

Disciplinary System for Grades 1-5 The below described disciplinary measures are designed to accommodate a broad list of behaviors not conducive to the learning environment or the climate of our school. May of these behaviors would not be expected of younger children in lower school. The system has been devised to cover any behavioral issues which might occur within the lower grades: Class I Violations:  Violations of posted classroom rules and expectations include: o Listening and following directions o Controlling excessive talking (classroom, restroom, lunchroom) o Being prepared for class o Being respectful of others and their property Penalty: Class I violations will be managed by classroom teachers. If Class I behaviors are persistent as documents by the teacher, consequences require one or more of the following: o One day of silent lunch o Walking at recess o Written notification to parents Note: Persistent Class I offenses may become Class II Class II Violations:  Violations include persistent Class I behaviors which may include: o Physical contact with another student (non-fighting) o Fighting o Profanity o Cheating o Disrespect of a teacher or peer to include bullying o Theft (severity considered)  Penalty: Class II violations require one or more of the following consequences: o Three days of silent lunch o Run or walk the track during recess o Loss of special activities o Consequences will include more than one from the list if behavior continues Note: Repeated Class II violations result in referral to the Headmaster (Class III) 30

Class III Violations:  Parent conference with teacher, director and Headmaster  Possible punishment resulting from conference: o After school detention on an assigned day of the week until 4PM performing tasks under the direction of the classroom teacher (vacuuming, dusting, etc.) o In or out-of –school suspension o Corporal punishment, per family agreement Disciplinary System for Pre-School (PK-Kindergarten) Biting

Immediate attention will be provided since this behavior is serious. 

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1st Offense – The incident will be documented via an “Incident Report” for the child that was bitten. The incident will be documented via the “Bite Report” for the child that was biting. Copies of these report will be provided to respective parents.

2nd Offense – Parent(s) must pick up the child immediately, as the child will be suspended from school for the remainder of the day and the following day.

Parents of the student who was biting and the student who was bitten will be provided copies of Bite & Incident Reports.

3rd Offense – Parents will be required to meet with the Preschool Director and Headmaster to determine appropriate punishment for future violations.

Spitting/Kicking/Bodily Harm

  

1st Offense – Incident will be documented in student’s Behavior Choice Card.

2nd Offense – Parent(s) must pick up the child immediately, as the child will be suspended from school for the remainder of the day and the following day.

3rd Offense – Parents will be required to meet with the Preschool Director and Headmaster to determine appropriate punishment for future violations.

Inappropriate Language

  

1st Offense – Incident will be documented in student’s Behavior Choice Card.

2nd Offense – Parent(s) must pick up the child immediately, as the child will be suspended from school for the remainder of the day and the following day.

3rd Offense - Parents will be required to meet with the Preschool Director and Headmaster to determine appropriate punishment for future violations.

Inappropriate Touching

All inappropriate touching that is observed by school personnel must be reported to the preschool director. Parents will be required to meet with the preschool director and the Headmaster.

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TOBACCO, ALCOHOL AND DRUG POLICY Students represent the school whether at school or not. As a Christian-based school, all students are expected to represent the school, its ideals and values at all times. As such, use of alcohol or illegal drugs is incompatible with the values of our school and is not acceptable at any time. Gatewood’s policy is a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week, 365day-a-year policy, including all vacations during the school year and the summer months. The ideal of our education includes the development of the whole person mind, body and spirit - but the use of alcohol and illegal drugs can endanger the realization of one’s potential for learning and for life.

Gatewood has developed a series of actions for the school, the student, and his/her family to take when a student has possessed, used, or distributed alcohol or illegal drugs. The purpose of the series of actions is to send a powerful message that the use of illegal substances is not tolerated at any level. Secondly, but certainly equally important, the policy and the disciplinary and guidance actions are intended to generate a school climate that will engage the broad school community in comprehensive and thoughtful efforts to stop the use of alcohol and illegal drugs by adolescents and to potentially save lives from life-threatening or life-alternating use of these substances.

See the appendix for the detailed drug and alcohol policy.

Tobacco & Smoking Policy Purpose The intent of this policy is to discourage young people from making inappropriate choices regarding the illegal use of tobacco and/or other chemicals inhaled through smoking or chewing products in any form. This includes cigarettes/cigars, e-cigarettes (vaping) or use of hookah devices to inhale and any chewable products. An offense is one where the student uses or possesses any form of tobacco.

Disciplinary Actions

Students that commit such actions have the choice to remain at Gatewood School under the following conditions or they may withdraw from Gatewood School:  First offense: Ten (10) hours of community service (not school-related).

Community service must be approved by Administration.  Second offense: Twenty (20) hours of community service (not school-related).

Community service must be approved by Administration.  Third offense: Thirty (30) hours of community service (not school-related).

Community service must be approved by Administration. Student will be suspended from 25% of the regular season GISA events for the activity in which he or she is currently scheduled, or the next season for which he or she is scheduled.  Fourth offense: The student will be expelled from Gatewood.

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Alcohol Policy Purpose The intent of this policy is to discourage young people from making inappropriate choices regarding the illegal use of alcohol. An offense is one where the student involved exhibits: Clear evidence of use:  Being caught in the act of using or consuming the illegal alcohol  Obviously under the influence of alcohol  Direct or circumstantial evidence of using, possessing, or supplying alcohol.

Disciplinary Actions Students who commit such actions have the choice to remain at Gatewood School under the following conditions or they may withdraw from Gatewood School: First offense:  One Year Probation  In-School Suspension for one (1) day  Twenty (20) hours of community service (not school-related). Community service must be approved by Administration.  Student must prepare a research paper relating to the effects of alcohol. This work is not to be done at school and the paper and presentation are due within 10 days of offense. The paper is to be submitted to the Headmaster, who will determine the suitability of the paper.  Ten school days suspension from any non-mandatory school-related activities, other than attending classes. This includes, but is not limited to: social events (i.e., Prom, Homecoming), a spectator at any home or away sporting events, drama, and chorus. The student-athlete may remain part of the team and will be expected to participate in team practices and/or conditioning sessions.  Student will be suspended from 25% of the regular season GISA events for the activity in which he or she is currently scheduled, or the next season for which he or she is scheduled.  Student’s on-campus driving and parking privileges will be suspended for ten (10) consecutive school days beginning with the next school day.

Second offense (drug- or alcohol-related) during probationary period: The student will be expelled from Gatewood School.

Second offense (after probationary period):  In-School Suspension for two (2) days  Forty (40) hours of community service (not school-related). Community service must be approved by Administration.  Student must receive an assessment at a licensed Alcohol Treatment Center and must adhere to the recommended counseling and treatment prescribed by the Center. This assessment must be within 30 days of offense and treatment must start immediately. This assessment and treatment is at the parents’/guardian’s expense.

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 

Three (3) months suspension from any non-mandatory school-related activities, other than attending classes. This includes, but is not limited to social events (i.e., Prom, Homecoming), a spectator at any home or away sporting events, drama, or chorus. The student-athlete may remain part of the team and will be expected to participate in team practices and/or conditioning sessions.

Student will be suspended from 50% of the regular season GISA events for the activity in which he or she is currently scheduled, or the next season for which he or she is scheduled.

Students on-campus driving and parking privileges will be suspended for twenty (20) consecutive school days beginning with the next school day.

Third offense: The student will be expelled from Gatewood School.

Drug Policy Drug Screening Purpose The purpose of the drug screening program is to aid and assist students. It is not intended to unduly interfere with the student’s private life or to bring hardship, but rather to protect the well being of all students. Specific goals of the program are as follows:        

To reassure students, parents and community that the health, safety and academic progress of each of its students is the primary goal of Gatewood School.

To develop a drug-free educational environment and produce students who can serve as role models to influence peers to lead healthy and responsible lives.

To prevent drug use and abuse by students of Gatewood School.

To identify any student who may be using or abusing drugs and to determine the identity of the drug or drugs.

To educate any student who may be using or abusing drugs as to the possible physical and psychological effects drug use may have, and its possible adverse effects on the team and its members.

To provide opportunities for treatment and counseling rehabilitation for any student who is determined to be using or abusing drugs.

To provide reasonable safeguards to help insure that every student in Gatewood Schools is mentally and physically competent to participate in school activities.

To remove the stigma of drug use and abuse from those students who do not use or abuse drugs.

Use For the purposes of this policy, student refers to any student in grades 6-12. The intent of this policy is to discourage young people from making inappropriate choices regarding the use of illicit drugs. The policy is also designed to reward those students who choose NOT to participate in drug use by allowing them to validate their commitment to a drug free lifestyle. A further positive outcome for the program is to identify those students who, having made a poor choice, need help in understanding the 34

dangers of using/abusing illegal substances and who need help in divesting themselves of a potentially serious problem. An offense as referenced in the Disciplinary Actions section is one where the student involved exhibits: Clear evidence of use:  Being caught in the act of using or consuming the illegal drugs  Obviously under the influence of drug use  Drugs or drug paraphernalia found on their person, in their car, or in their possession  Direct or circumstantial evidence of possessing, using or supplying drugs  Positive results from a random or directed drug screening test Screening Gatewood School uses a urine analysis method for drug testing. All students covered under this policy will be screened for drug usage as follows: Mandatory Screening: All students in grades 6-12 will be screened at the beginning of each school year.

Random Screening: Any student enrolled at Gatewood School is subject to screening for drug usage on a randomly selected basis in addition to the annual screening.

Consequently in a random test, some students may be tested more than once a year.

There is no cost to the parent for the random testing. The students will be randomly selected for subsequent screening by numerical sampling conducted by the drug testing agency. For school year 2015-16, Gatewood will use the Cornerstone Medical Staffing of Milledgeville to conduct testing. Parents will be informed as to results that are positive.

At that time a retest from Cornerstone or another reputable medical agency at the parents’ expense may be requested (see appeal process below).

Anonymity Students will be assigned a student identification number and those numbers will be used in contact with the selected testing service. The service will not be aware of any student identity during the initial testing procedure. Upon receipt of a positive result, the service will have to receive contact information from the school regarding the student to review the student’s medical history in order to insure that the result is not a “false” result.

Procedure The testing of students will be conducted by qualified trained team who will collect samples, maintain chain of custody, and provide to testing lab. Results of the tests shall be reported to Gatewood’s Headmaster who will notify students and parents of any positive results.

Disciplinary Actions Students that commit such actions as defined under the Drug Use Section and/or tested “positive” on a drug screening test have the choice to remain at Gatewood School under the following conditions or they may withdraw from enrollment: First offense: 35

     



 

One Year probation Counseling at the parents’/guardian’s expense Quarterly drug testing for one (1) year beginning within ninety (90) days of the offense. All costs associated with assessment, treatment and follow-up testing shall be borne by the student, the student’s parents or guardians.

In-School Suspension for 1 day Twenty (20) hours of community service (not school-related). Community service must be approved by Administration.

Student must prepare a research paper relating to the effects of the illegal drug.

This work is not to be done at school and the paper and presentation are due within 10 days of offense. The paper is to be submitted to the Headmaster who will determine the suitability of the paper.

Three (3) months suspension from any non-mandatory school-related activities, other than attending classes. This includes, but is not limited to: social events (i.e., Prom, Homecoming), a spectator at any home or away sporting events, drama, and chorus. The student-athlete may remain part of the team and will be expected to participate in team practices and/or conditioning sessions.

Student will be suspended from 50% of the regular season GISA events for the activity in which he or she is currently scheduled, or the next season for which he or she is scheduled.

Student’s on campus driving and parking privileges will be suspended for twenty (20) consecutive school days beginning with the next school day.

Second offense: The student will be expelled from Gatewood School.

Retention of Records No documentation pertaining to each student’s screening for drug usage will be made part of the student’s permanent record. All documentation will be kept in a separate confidential file with the Headmaster and will be destroyed upon the student’s graduation or departure from high school.

Completion of Conditions All conditions as stated in the above mentioned policies shall be completed in their entirety and within the established time frames. Failure to adhere to this requirement shall be grounds for immediate expulsion from Gatewood School.

Refusals Refusals to be tested will be deemed as a positive drug test and shall result in the student being expelled from Gatewood Schools.

Drug Screening Test Appeal Process If a student does test positive for drug use, the parent and/or guardian may request an additional drug-screening test be performed at their own expense. Because urine testing is only accurate within a short period of time, a hair analysis test shall be the only allowable second screening. Hair testing analyzes the hair shaft, rather than body fluids like urine or saliva, to determine whether illegal drugs are present. Compared to analysis of body fluids, hair testing is highly resistant to evasion by adulterating or 36

substituting samples, or by simply abstaining from drug use for a few days. Hair analysis is superior to urinalysis in that there is a wider window of detection with hair. Cocaine, methamphetamine, opiates and PCP are rapidly excreted and usually undetectable in urine seventy-two (72) hours after use. Rather than the hours or days covered by a body fluid test, a hair test covers a period of months, ensuring that a drug user cannot evade the test by simply abstaining for a few days. So that testing consistency and integrity is maintained, any additional test date shall be within a time frame set by the school headmaster. A copy of the results shall be submitted directly from the testing agency to the headmaster.

Additional Information Intervention If a student is intoxicated or impaired to the point where medical attention is critical, call 911 or report this to any adult immediately so the correct action can be taken.

Police Involvement If student activities involve police investigations, Gatewood will cooperate fully with the local authorities. Any student convicted of any alcohol or drug-related felony activities will be expelled.

Additional Actions It is not feasible to have every possible rule and consequence outlined in the Handbook.

Therefore, the Administration may invoke suspensions or other disciplinary action as it sees fit.

General School Regulations Field Trips Gatewood field trips are a vital part of the educational process. Students are expected to attend all field trips and must follow the school’s behavioral policies. To be excused from a field trip, parents must call the respective director prior to the field trip. Excuses will be provided only after personal contact with the director. Unexcused absences from a field trip will result in a penalty.

Students will wear school uniforms on class trips or field trips. The Headmaster must approve exceptions to required dress when requested by assigned faculty.

Each student must have a field trip permission slip completed, signed by the parent, and placed on file with the homeroom teacher. The homeroom teacher must ensure that all students have turned in a signed permission slip before departure. Except in extraordinary circumstances, the school will provide transportation, and the class is expected to travel with the class to and from the field location.

All regulations for student behavior apply while on field trips.

Chaperones must be approved by the administration. Parent chaperones bear a great responsibility in the supervision of students on field trips. For this reason, it is not permissible for children other than the students enrolled in the class to attend field trips. Chaperones shall follow the directions of the teacher. For safety 37

purposes, the fewest number of vehicles shall be used, the same route shall be taken, and drivers shall attempt to stay together. All traffic laws must be strictly observed.

Chaperones shall refrain from alcohol and tobacco use throughout the conduct of field trips, regardless of the number of days involved.

Lunches A catered lunch is available for all students. Menus for the lower school are available online and via Parents’ Web. Meals will be ordered and paid for in advance for the month. Checks are payable to Gatewood Schools. The school will pay vendors as services are rendered. Students may also bring their own lunches and purchase milk in the lunchroom from the vendor.

Middle and High School Students may purchase meals each day from the Gator Café.

Menus are also posted in the Middle School and High School. Sheets will be completed in homeroom and delivered to the concession area to assist vendors in preparing for lunch. All students may also bring their lunch. Drinks may be purchased in the lunchroom. Food vending machines in the lunchroom may be used by middle and high school students ONLY at lunch and after school. Lower school students are not allowed to purchase from vending machines.

Parties/Social Activities Parties are only held in the lower school. Parties are limited to Christmas, Easter, and the end-of-school. The teacher may plan other activities as they relate to special projects, programs, or learning activities. Parents will be assigned the responsibility for one party during the year. Several parents will share the event. Planning should be done in consultation with the teachers. All classes in the grade level will plan together and have their party together. Those parents responsible for that party should incur all expenses for the party. Class parties should be simple and not present a financial burden for any family. If the members of the class wish to purchase a collective gift for a teacher or coach at the end of the year, parents should request no more than $5.00 per student.

All social functions involving school organizations must be sponsored by a faculty advisor and approved by the Headmaster in writing prior to making any plans for the function. Students who leave the function are not allowed to return. Students are required to remain in the areas defined by the faculty advisor throughout the time they are in attendance. All guests of Gatewood students must conform to the school regulations. School conduct rules as stated in the handbook apply to all school functions both on and off the campus.

In the lower school, if a parent would like to provide a birthday treat for the class on their child’s special day, this may be brought and served during lunch or during snack time (pre-school). Please make arrangements in advance for approval by the teacher.

We ask that you consider the feelings of all students when planning parties for your children. Invitations to individual birthday parties, dances or other social activities may be issued at school only if all members of the class or all members of one gender in the class are included. Birthday parties may not be held during the school day and gifts should not be exchanged at school. Any special gifts such as flowers and balloons will be held in the office and delivered at the end of the day. The exception is Valentine’s Day when no flowers or gifts will be accepted by the school.

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School Bus Regulations The school bus is an extension of Gatewood Schools and all rules of conduct apply. It is absolutely necessary for each and every student to obey the bus driver. When a student does not follow the rules on the bus, the administration has the right to suspend him from riding the bus. It then becomes the obligation of the parent to transport the student to and from school.

To ensure the safety of students, seats may have to be assigned. The following rules must be observed. If a student fails to abide by the following, parents may have to provide their own transportation. Students will NOT:  Get up from their seats other than to exit the bus.  Push, throw objects, yell, whistle or make unkind remarks to other students or those outside of the vehicle.  Open the emergency door except in case of an accident.  Eat or drink on the bus or throw anything from the bus.  Place their book bag or personal items in the aisle or in any unauthorized area.  Have guests ride the bus with them without authority.

UNIFORM DRESS CODE Good habits are established early in life and grow out of an atmosphere of respect for self and for others. These good habits are established and maintained by a consistent application of basic rules of conduct, dress and courtesy that reflect the cooperative effort of home and school.

The uniform dress code applies while students are on campus or participating in school sponsored activities, regardless of location. Dress for athletic practices should be appropriately modest. Exposed midsections are not allowed. The administration and faculty will make all determinations in the appropriateness of apparel and grooming.

1. The dress code applies to students in grades Pre-kindergarten through 12.

2. Clothing should be labeled with the student's name to facilitate the return of lost items.

3. Every Gatewood student will wear the prescribed uniform Monday – Thursday each week.

Gatewood Uniform Standards Colors of shirts and outerwear are approved shades of green, maze, white, and gray.

Seniors have the option of also purchasing black.

Polo Style Shirts Land’s End or Buckhead Uniform polo-styled shirts (long or short sleeve) with Gatewood logo may be worn. These must be tucked. *Only seniors may wear black shirts.* Oxford Style Shirts 39

Land’s End or Buckhead Uniform oxford shirts with Gatewood logo may be worn.

Regular cut oxfords must be tucked. “Female cut” oxfords do not have to be tucked.

Sweaters/Vests Land’s End or Buckhead Uniform sweater and sweater vests in green, yellow, or white may be worn. A collared Gatewood shirt with the Gatewood logo must be worn underneath the sweater or vest.

Pants/Shorts/Capris/Skirts/Jumpers Khaki pants, shorts, capris, jumpers and skirts, being of a length measuring no more than a dollar bill width above the knee, may be purchased at a store of your choice.

Standard Gatewood Uniform colors only. *Buckhead Uniform is the only carrier of the approved Gatewood Plaid Design as of this school year.* Shoes  Boys must wear shoes with closed toes (Grades 6-12).  Girls must wear shoes with a solid back or a strap on the back. (Grades 6-12).  Lower/Pre-school students must wear shoes that fully cover the toes and heels for safety reasons on the playground.  Shoes or boots with laces must be fully laced up at all times.  Preferably, pre-school student shoes should meet the safety requirements as stated above, but should also be easily put on and taken off by the students themselves. Velcro fastened or slip on shoes are appropriate to meet this requirement.

Outerwear Inside any school building, students may wear jackets or pullovers purchased (no hoodies) from Land’s End, Buckhead, or the Gatewood Swamp Shop bearing the school logo. Students may wear team outerwear during the school week provided it is approved by the athletic department and/or administration. Outerwear must also be “current year” team wear.

Dress Code for Spirit Days (Fridays) Fridays are designated as “spirit days,” and students may wear Gatewood spirit wear bearing the name Gatewood or “the Gatewood G”. Sleeveless jerseys must be worn with a t-shirt underneath. Denim jeans, blue in color, (not “Jeggings” or any other tight fitting look-alike) may be worn if they have no holes or tears. Students may wear sweatshirts (no “hoodies”) as outerwear following the spirit wear requirements for Fridays.

As a privilege, seniors may wear a sweatshirt bearing the name of any university they have received an acceptance letter from as outerwear at a time agreed upon with the administration.

Dress code Violations/Consequences For High and Middle Schools, if a student is found in violation of the Gatewood dress code, one demerit will be assigned on the first violation. A second violation within the same quarter will result in a loss of Friday spirit wear for that week. Any additional 40

violation within the same week will result in a Level II offense for insubordination. For Lower and Pre-School infractions, teachers will remind parents of requirements the first time. Subsequently, you will be asked to bring clothing or footwear to correct the issue.

Grooming Haircut requirements apply to all Gatewood students (K-2 through 12). Hairstyles and/or color must not draw undue attention to an individual or interfere with the educational process. Examples of inappropriate cuts include Mohawk-style cuts or designs cut into the hair. Hair colors must be of a natural looking color, to include highlights. Boys' hair must not fall over the top of the ear, below the eyebrow, or over the collar. Students must be clean-shaven, and sideburns may not be longer than the bottom of the earlobe.

The following are prohibited at Gatewood Schools:  Earrings on boys  Hats, caps, bandanas, or sunglasses  Facial or body piercing  Visible tattoos.  Any clothing or accessory that the administration deems unsuitable.

Dress for P.E. and Athletic Teams 1. Students in grades 6-12 must wear modest green or black gym shorts and a Gatewood spirit wear T-shirt. These items are available through the Booster Club.

Failure to wear appropriate clothing will result in a reduction of the student's grade.

P.E. clothing must be labeled with the student’s name.

2. In an effort to reduce wear and tear on our gym floor, Elementary and Middle School students are required to maintain a pair of PE shoes in their homeroom exclusively for use when physical education is conducted on the gymnasium floor. These shoes will not be worn outside of the gym as grit and dirt greatly deteriorates the finish on the floor. Shoes may be either laced or Velcroclosed tennis shoes. Shoes do not have to be new, but should be clean and rubber bottomed.

3. Elementary and Pre-school girls should also refrain from wearing dresses or skirts on PE class days.

Other Guidelines Campus Searches Gatewood seeks to provide a safe and drug-free campus for our students. Accordingly, all areas of the campus, vehicles, and personal property are subject to search by the Gatewood administrators at any time. These areas of the campus include, but are not limited to classrooms, offices, locker rooms, student lockers, parking areas, and personally owned vehicles. The administration may authorize law enforcement officials to search any areas on campus as necessary.

Prohibited Area Certain areas are considered off limits unless supervised by a faculty member: football bleachers, press box, weight rooms, parking lots, locker rooms, faculty lounges, copy rooms, storage rooms, athletic offices, and construction zones. The lower school is off limits to middle and high school students not scheduled for classes there, except for 41

assemblies and by special permission. Students may not loiter in the parking lot before or after school. Students must have a pass from a teacher to go to the parking lot during the school day.

Lost and Found All clothing should be clearly marked with the student’s name. Found items are placed in the lost and found locker located in the lower school building and in the gym supply closet. Items that are not picked up within a reasonable time are donated to a charitable organization.

Change of Address Please notify the school of any change in address, email, or phone numbers during the school year. Changes are to be made also by the parents in ParentWeb ‘webforms’ tab under custodial demographics.

Fund Raising Under no circumstances will students or parents be allowed to sell items on campus unless the fund-raiser is sponsored by the school or a school-related organization and approved by the Director of Development.

Other High School Policies Registering Student Car/Parking Privileges Any student desiring to drive on campus must register his car with a valid driver’s license, insurance card, and parental permission form with the Director of the High School. Students must park in the assigned parking space. Cars must be locked, and no student may enter a vehicle during the school day except with permission. Fast driving on the road approaching the campus will not be tolerated. Student drivers who are reported in any incident of hazardous or reckless driving will not receive a warning.

They will immediately lose their driving privilege for a specified period of time and parents will be notified. This rule which involves the lives and safety of Gatewood students, neighbors, friends, and small children will be strictly enforced.

Certificate of Attendance To receive a Georgia Driving Permit or Driver’s License, a student must prove that he is currently enrolled in school. In order to receive this form from Gatewood, the student must file the request at least 7 days prior to going to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Only the student may request this form from the school office. The student needs to know the correct spelling of their entire name and their street address (a post office box is not acceptable).

Alcohol and Drug Awareness Certificate To receive a Georgia Driving Permit, a student must provide a copy of his Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) Certification. This course is part of Gatewood’s 9th Grade Health class. The certificate may be obtained from the course instructor once the student has passed the Alcohol and Drug Awareness exam. If a student has not taken the ADAP course, he or she should consult the Coach Burner to make arrangements.

Arrangements should be made a minimum of one month prior to the student's appointment with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

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Student Class Dues High school classes collect class dues from each student in order to fund the annual prom each spring. The dues are as follows: Ninth grade: $50.00 Tenth grade: $75.00 Eleventh grade: $100.00 Twelfth grade: None, unless need arises Juniors and Seniors are not permitted to attend the Junior-Senior Prom unless their class dues have been paid in full by January 1 of the student's Junior year.

Application Process 1. To begin the admissions process, the applicant submits the following information either by online application or paper application:  Completed application  $75.00 non-refundable application fee  Copy of the applicant’s birth certificate, social security card, immunization record and eye, ear and dental exam*  Signed Release of Records 2. Once an application has been received, the Admissions Director will set up an entrance exam for students applying to kindergarten through grade 12. Entrance exams are set up at the convenience of the applicant and administered at Gatewood.

3. The Admissions Director will fax the signed Release of Records to the appropriate institutions. Applicants must submit the Confidential Teacher Recommendation Forms to the appropriate instructors.

4. The Headmaster will review the applicant’s file when all of the following has been received in the Admissions Office:  Complete and up-to-date permanent record  Graded entrance exam  Copies of the applicant’s birth certificate, social security card, immunization record and eye, ear and dental exam*  Completed Teacher Recommendation Forms 5. If there is availability in the desired class, and the applicant is a qualified candidate for Gatewood Schools, based on the complete applicant file, the Admissions Office will extend a contract to the applicant. If there is no availability in the desired class, but the applicant is a qualified candidate for Gatewood Schools, based on the complete applicant file, the Admissions Office will notify the applicant of his placement in an applicant pool. *

Eye, ear and dental exam records are required only for applicants seeking admission into kindergarten through grade 12.

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6. If a contract has been extended to the applicant, it must be signed and returned with a full enrollment fee of $750 or a partial enrollment fee of $400. The balance of a partial enrollment fee is due at the start of the second semester in January. Once this has been completed, the applicant will be enrolled.

Financial Aid Gatewood Schools provides a number of partial scholarships to assist families that meet a financial shortfall to pay required tuition and fees. To access a family’s need for financial assistance, Gatewood Schools uses an independent agency called Financial Aid for School Tuition or FAST. FAST provides member schools with an objective methodology for calculating a family’s ability to contribute to educational expenses.

FAST does not make an award, but using the information provided by parents, suggests appropriate guidelines for the school to award based on a family’s particular situation and the school’s resources.

Upon acceptance to Gatewood Schools, the process for filing for financial assistance is as follows: Complete the online application at www.ismfast.com. Our website provides the link to the Gatewood Schools page. After completing the application, send 2014 W-2, federal and state tax returns and supporting schedules to: FAST Processing Idependent School Managment 1316 North Union Street Wilmington, DE 19806 

Awards will be made in a strictly confidential manner after all forms have been filed with FAST and the process as described above has been completed. Awards can be made only to those students who have applied to Gatewood, been accepted, and returned a signed contract and enrollment fee.

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The Financial Aid Committee reviews all requests for assistance and makes awards from available funding sources in an equitable manner, consistent with the mission and philosophy of Gatewood Schools. The Financial Aid Committee meets in May and again in August/September.

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New requests must be submitted annually as awards are made for only one year.

Gatewood fills partial scholarships from general donations and Georgia GOAL Scholarship dollars. Georgia GOAL money may be used to fund awards to qualified applicants who transfer from a public school system or who begin school for the first time in pre-school as 4 year olds. The regular financial aid process is required to file for this scholarship. Additional forms may be required. Most awards will be a combination of GOAL and general scholarship dollars depending upon need.

Bell Schedule 44

HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULE (2015-16)

8:05-9:00 9:05-10:00 10:05-11:00 11:05-12:00 12:05-1:00 1:00-1:30 1:35-2:30 2:35-3:00 K-2nd Lunch 3-5th Lunch MS Lunch HS Lunch

Mon 1 2 3 4 5

Tue Wed Thu Fri 1st Class 6 4 3 2 2nd Class 7 5 4 3 3rd Class 1 6 5 4 4th Class 2 7 6 5 5th Class 3 1 7 6 HS LUNCH 6th Class Bible Chapel 2 1 7 FLEX: Add'l help; Make-up Period; Academic Support 10:45

11:15

11:20

11:50

12:00

12:30

1:00

1:30

MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHEDULE (2015-16)

8:05-9:00 9:05-10:00 10:05-11:00 11:05-12:00 12:00-12:30 12:35-1:30 1:35-2:30 2:35-3:00

8:05-8:30 8:35-LUNCH 10:45-11:15 11:20-11:50 LUNCH-2:45

Mon 1 2 3 4

Tue Wed Thu Fri 1st Class 6 4 3 2 2nd Class 7 5 4 3 3rd Class 1 6 5 4 4th Class 2 7 6 5 MS LUNCH 5th Class 5 Chapel 1 7 6 6th Class Activity 3 2 1 7 FLEX: Add'l help; Make-up Period; Academic Support PRE/LOWER SCHOOL SCHEDULE (2015-16) Mon Tue Wed Thu Chapel

Fri

PK2-2ND GRADE LUNCH 3RD-5TH GRADE LUNCH

Gatewood Schools 2015-16 Key Calendar Dates Jun 29-Jul 2 Aug 10-13 Aug 12 Aug 14 Aug 26 Sep (TBD) Sep 7

School Office Closed (Independence Day Week) Teacher Preplanning Open House First Day of School (Abbreviated Schedule – ½ Day) Pre-school/Lower School Curriculum Night Middle/High School Curriculum Night Labor Day Holiday 45

Oct 9 Oct 12 Oct 16 Oct 20 Oct 28 Nov 2 Nov 23-27 Dec 16-18 Dec 21-Jan 4 Jan 4 Jan 5 Jan 6 Jan 18 Feb 15 Feb 24 Feb 25 Mar 16 Mar 14-16 Mar 18 Mar 18-19 Mar 21-24 Mar 24 Mar 25 Mar 27 Mar 28-Apr 1 May 16-18 May 22 May 23-25 May 24 May 25 May 26-27 May 30

Grandparents’ Day (½ Day) Mid-Term Break – Columbus Day End of First Quarter Virtual Progress Reports via RenWeb PSAT/NMQST 11th Grade Teacher Professional Development Day/No School Thanksgiving Holiday Semester 1 Exams (½ Days) Christmas Holiday Teacher/Staff Work Day Semester 2 Begins Semester 1 Report Cards US Holiday – MLK Day US Holiday – Presidents’ Day PSAT 10th Grade PSAT 9th/8th Grades End of Third Quarter Cognitive Aptitude Test (Grades K, 3, 5) Virtual Progress Reports via RenWeb Lake Oconee F&W Festival ITBS (Grades 1-7) Prom (½ Day) Good Friday (No School) Easter Spring Break Senior Exams Graduation at Rock Eagle Semester 2 Exams (½ Days) Kindergarten Graduation Last Day of School Teacher Post Planning Memorial Day Holiday

(Revised July 2015)

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Extra-curricular Activities Students may be involved in the following extracurricular activities while at Gatewood.

Academic & Athletic Activities Anchor Club Annual Staff (Selected) Band Baseball Basketball Boy Scouts Cheerleading Cheerleading (Competition) Chorus Cross Country Debate Fellowship of Christian Athletes Football Equestrian (IEA) Club Gators Gotta Run Girl Scouts Golf Literary National Honor Society One-Act Play Robotics Science Olympiad Shotgun Shooting Sports Soccer Softball (Girls) Spanish Club Student Government Assoc Swimming Tennis Track Volleyball (Girls) Wrestling (Boys)

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ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY AND STUDENT-ATHLETE POLICIES We believe that the principles and lessons learned in the classroom and at home can be put into practice through athletics. Because of the competition found in athletics, a student is surrounded with pressure. The athlete is then tested and the true character is revealed. Thus the character of a student/athlete has the chance to grow through the athletic competition.

Gatewood takes pride in its athletic teams and programs, which encourage student participation, support, and total physical effort on the fields of play. While we delight in a winning team, Gatewood does not place athletics as the cornerstone of our program.

Gatewood students are students first, then athletes who know the joy of participation, tough competition, and winning.

Role of Coaches Coaches are one of the significant components of our athletic program as we strive to achieve excellence. They have the responsibility of molding the attitudes, behaviors, and desires of our student athletes. In order to be considered an effective coach and role model, our coaches must be thoroughly knowledgeable in their sports, capable of detailed preparation, able to motivate athletes, to make adjustments during competition, and to provide positive situations for our student-athletes.

Programs We believe that each individual program at Gatewood should work to develop a wellrounded student-athlete. The head varsity coach shall be responsible for providing a consistent structure and ensuring that similar philosophies are implemented at all levels of the program. The programs shall develop pride among the participants and support among the student body. Parents should be supportive in the process of developing the student/athlete by supporting off season conditioning, camps and summer workouts.

All activities within an athletic program should exemplify Gatewood’s commitment to excellence and also reflect the school’s and athletic department’s policies, procedures, and philosophies. As a Christian-based institution, we expect parents and Gatewood supporters to set positive examples for our children and for other schools wherever we compete and regardless of game or event outcome.

Gatewood Athletes The Gatewood Athletes should work to prepare themselves to participate in the sport(s) of choice through effort, discipline, a respect for others, and a pursuit of excellence.

Through displaying these characteristics good things usually happen: teams are successful, players motivated, fans supportive and enthusiastic, parents are proud, and prospective athletes wish to participate.

Eligibility Student athletes and those who participate and compete in academic associated events throughout the school year must be in good academic standing in order to participate.

To compete in interscholastic athletics and literary events, a student must pass a minimum of five subjects each semester to retain eligibility. Students may not fail more than one academic core class per quarter. Any student failing more than one core class will be ineligible for the following quarter. Only two credits regained during summer school may be used to maintain eligibility while in high 48

school in accordance with GISA rules. Gatewood does not operate a summer school since it is expected that all students take advantage of aid and assistance throughout the year to prevent failure. Summer credit recovery through online classes or other venues must be approved by the Headmaster in order to count for recovery. The maximum grade for a recovery class will by 70 regardless of the grade received. Without credit recovery, students will not be eligible until the end of 1st Semester. Students who fail first semester may regain eligibility at the end of the 3rd Quarter (GISA Rules).

A student will be placed on academic probation if he or she has two or more class averages below 74. This status does not prevent the student from participating, but is an alert to the student, parents, and associated coaches or sponsors that remedial efforts may be warranted to ensure that eligibility is not lost. Coaches or sponsors will work with teachers and students to ensure the maximum opportunities are exploited to assist in the student’s recovery.

Parent Concerns All parent concerns should be addressed first to the coach and finally to the Athletic Director. If the Athletic Director feels the matter is unresolved or of significance, he will seek the guidance of the Headmaster or Assistant Headmaster.

Travel All travel to and from games will be with the team on the team bus or van with the following exceptions: 1. Traveling with parents back from a game with prior approval of a coach.

2. Return travel with parents of a friend with accompanying approval in writing from the parents.

3. Special situations which have prior approval from the coach, A. D., and the Headmaster.

Assistant Coaches 1. Any assistant coach, whether a school staff member or a volunteer, must be approved through the Headmaster, AD, and the head coach as a matter of routine.

2. Assistant coaches will subscribe to the same code of conduct as expected from the head coach.

3. If parents have volunteered or have been asked to help a coach, the duties of the parent must be clear and must not conflict with the coaching philosophy of the coach. Children and friends of volunteers will not be allowed to be in the dugout, sit on the sidelines, or be a part of the sideline activity unless cleared by the AD or Headmaster.

4. All volunteer coaches must fill out an application to be able to assist in any sport.

The head coach, AD and the Headmaster will evaluate each applicant.

Cheerleading Cheerleading is an important part of the athletic program at Gatewood. Cheerleaders are to serve as a positive example of leadership and school spirit in promoting athletic competitions throughout the year. Cheerleaders are athletes, and therefore abide by all rules for athletes. Sideline or courtside cheering and competitive cheering are one program at Gatewood Schools.

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Physical Examinations Athletes must have a physical examination form on file, which is signed by a physician stating that the athlete has been examined and has been physically approved for participation.

Code of Discipline 1. For athletic participation, a student must be present by 9:00 am or provide a doctor's excuse and the student is present for four periods. Only the Headmaster may make exception to this rule.

2. Each coach establishes a set of rules for his team to follow. The coach is responsible for reviewing rules at the beginning of the season and having a copy of the rules on file with the Athletic Director.

3. If an athlete sees a physician for an injury or illness he or she must have the physician complete a form provided by the school. The Physician’s Plan of Care form may be obtained from the athletic trainer, AD or head coach. The student must return the form completed by the physician and he or she will be allowed to participate based on the physician’s instructions on the form.

4. The drug, alcohol, and tobacco policy are stated in the student handbook.

5. For team travel athletic teams must wear khaki pants and a white or green collared shirt with the school logo on the left chest, or dress as directed by the coach.

Recognition Patches and Letters Gatewood provides embroidered letter slashes to athletes each year when they meet requirements for recognition. These items may be sown onto letters at personal cost.

Additionally, when region and state honors are earned, the AD will order patches for those wishing to affix them to their jackets. These items are not purchased by the school and will be passed to students as a personal expense.

Technology/Internet Use Policy Introduction Gatewood Schools provides its users with Internet access and electronic communications services as required for the performance and fulfillment of educational responsibilities.

Users must understand that this access is for the purpose of increased productivity and not for nonacademic activities. Users must also understand that any connection to the Internet offers an opportunity for unauthorized users to view or access their information. Therefore, it is important that all connections be secure, controlled, and monitored.

To this end, users at Gatewood should have no expectation of privacy while using school-owned or school-leased equipment. Information passing through or stored on school equipment can and will be monitored. Users should also understand that Gatewood maintains the right to monitor and review Internet use.

Permitted use The Internet connection and e-mail system of Gatewood is primarily for school and 50

business use. Users may use Gatewood’s internet services for academic assignments or school related business only. Personal e-mail shall not be read or sent at school.

Prohibited use Students shall never use the computer at a teacher’s desk without permission and direct supervision from the teacher. Users shall not use Gatewood’s internet or e-mail services to view, download, save, receive, or send material related to or including:             

Offensive content of any kind, including pornographic material.

Promoting discrimination on the basis of race, gender, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, or disability.

Threatening or violent behavior.

Illegal activities.

Commercial messages.

Messages of a political or racial nature.

Gambling.

Sports, entertainment, and job information and/or sites.

Personal financial gain.

Forwarding e-mail chain letters.

Spamming e-mail accounts from Gatewood’s machines.

Material protected under copyright laws.

Sending business-sensitive information by e-mail or over the Internet.

Middle and Lower Schools Students Unless specifically directed by a teacher or the director of a specific school level, electronic devices may not be brought to school to be used during he school day. This policy includes iPads, tablets, laptops, electronic readers (Nooks, Kindle, etc.) and other similar items. This policy in no way prevents use of technology to promote learning when appropriate, but does ensure that all such instruction and learning is conducted under the supervision of a teacher or qualified facilitator.

Responsibilities Gatewood’s users are responsible for:  Honoring acceptable use policies of networks accessed through Gatewood’s Internet and e-mail services.  Abiding by existing federal, state, and local telecommunications and networking laws and regulations.  Following copyright laws regarding protected commercial software or intellectual property.  Minimizing unnecessary network traffic that may interfere with the ability of others to make effective use of Gatewood’s network resources.  Not overloading networks with excessive data or wasting Gatewood’s other technical resources.

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Violations Violations will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. If it is determined that a user has violated one or more of the above use policies, the user will receive a reprimand by Administration and that user’s future use will be closely monitored. If a gross violation has occurred, Administration will take immediate action. Such action may result in losing Internet and/or e-mail privileges, severe reprimand, or expulsion.

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Gatewood Schools Anti-Bullying Policy All Gatewood students are expected to treat others with respect. Gatewood expressly prohibits bullying, bullying via electronic devices, harassment, intimidation, or any other conduct that is judged to make any student or staff member feel victimized, powerless, or marginalized.

Gatewood enforces an anti-bullying policy to ensure opportunities for student success.

Gatewood is committed to creating an environment of learning that is free from harassment, pestering, or other behaviors that negatively impact student achievement or well-being.

Students and staff members have an obligation to report bullying, or behaviors that can be perceived as bullying, to a teacher, coach, counselor, or administrator. In turn, the faculty, staff, and administration will be responsible for enforcing the school’s policy.

Any suspected case of bullying will be investigated by the staff and administrators.

Students in violation of Gatewood’s Anti-Bullying Policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions. The ultimate consequences of continuous bullying will be subject to a hearing before the Disciplinary Council and possible dismissal.

I (print name)_________________________ have read and understand the Gatewood School Bullying Policy.

Signature_____________________________________ Date____________

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Students in Grades 6th-12th ONLY Drug Testing Policy Understanding Form We, the undersigned, have read Gatewood’s Drug Testing Policy and understand the Policy, its procedures and fees, when applicable. We understand that enrollment in Gatewood School is contingent upon acceptance of and conformance to this policy. We agree to this policy and its procedures, including the initial test of all middle and high school students, and the potential for random drug testing of a student during the student’s enrollment at Gatewood Schools.

________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

In addition to the above statement, we the parents understand that our child may be drug tested, and we consent to any test given during the school year.

___________________________________________ Parent

__________ Date

____________________________________________ Parent

__________ Date

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Student & Parent Handbook Acknowledgement We, the undersigned, have read Gatewood’s Student Handbook and understand the rules and procedures for the upcoming school year.

As the student, I understand the Honor Code and pledge to adhere to the following code: “I will neither lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate any of these acts. I will be academically honest in all of my work and will not tolerate academic dishonesty of others.” ________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

________________________________ Student

__________ ____________ Grade Date

In addition to the above statement, we the parents, pledge to support and uphold the Honor Code and agree to follow the Statements of Support on the following page.

___________________________________________ Parent/Guardian

__________ Date

____________________________________________ Parent/Guardian

__________ Date

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Parents’ and Guardians’ Statements of Support 1. We will fully cooperate in the educational activities of Gatewood Schools by doing our best to make Christian-based education effective in the lives of our children.

2. We support the spiritually based activities required by the school to include weekly chapel, Bible classes, and other related activities.

3. We pledge to fulfill our financial obligations to Gatewood Schools on or before the due date each month. If we are ever unable to do so, we will immediately notify the business office to make arrangements for delinquent payments.

4. We provide the school with discretion regarding discipline of our children in accordance with the “dress code” and “discipline” policies set forth in this handbook.

5. We understand that the school reserves the right to place our children into the appropriate grade level, designate teacher(s), or subject levels to ensure their ability to learn and perform at the highest levels possible.

6. We support the school’s right to dismiss any student when either their parents/guardians, or the student fails to cooperate and behave in accordance with policies of the school.

7. We commit ourselves to volunteer for duties and responsibilities in support of Gatewood Schools as opportunities arise and God provides us the time, strength, and resources to do so.

8. We will be faithful to attend all Gatewood Schools parent functions, as best we can. These include open houses, parent-teacher organizational meetings, parentteacher conferences, informational nights, etc..

9. We will regularly and earnestly pray for Gatewood Schools.

10. If we become dissatisfied with Gatewood Schools in any way, we will strive to resolve the matter with the person(s) involved as privately and lovingly as possible, rather than spreading criticism and negativism verbally or through social media (Matt 18:15-17; 5:23-24).

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GATEWOOD SCHOOLS CORPORAL PUNISHMENT PERMISSION FORM Gatewood Schools, Inc. allows the use of corporal punishment. The policy reads as follows In determining whether to use corporal punishment, the following considerations should be taken into account: the seriousness of the offense, the attitude and past behavior of the student, the age and size of the student, and the availability of equally effective non-physical means of discipline.

Corporal punishment may not be administered for academic deficiency or conduct not related to the school, and shall be an option in lieu of misbehaviors described in this handbook. Corporal punishment must be approved by the Headmaster.

Corporal punishment may be administered by the Headmaster or designated, certified teacher with the Headmaster present. One adult employee of the school shall be present to witness the spanking in all cases, regardless of who administers the punishment.

There must be at least 15 minutes lapse time between the referral and the decision to administer corporal punishment.

Parental/Guardian permission slips approving corporal punishment must be on file prior to administering corporal punishment. A parent/guardian of the student shall be notified prior to administering corporal punishment and will be invited to witness the administration of the punishment if desired.

Corporal punishment will be administered by spanking the buttocks of a student no more than three (3) times with a flat-surfaced paddle causing no more than temporary pain and without inflicting permanent damage to the body. No other form of corporal punishment is authorized.

I have read the above policy and understand that I have the right to choose whether or not corporal punishment may be used in disciplining my child(ren). [ ] I hereby authorize the use of corporal punishment under the conditions outlined in above policy for the following children:

[ ] I do not wish for corporal punishment to be administered to the following children and understand that out of school suspension may be required in lieu of:

Signature of Parent/Guardian

Date

Daytime Phone

This authorization is valid as long as said child(ren) are attending Gatewood Schools, Inc. It may be revoked at any time by submitting a new form to the Headmaster.

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Notes: ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________

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