2018-19Student Handbook

www.highpointchristianacademy.com

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HighPoint Christian Academy is a ministry of HighPoint Community Church

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Welcome to HighPoint Christian Academy and the 2018-19 school year. In the upcoming year, we look forward to growing and preparing for college, life and ministry together.

My name is Renee’ Pleasant, as Head of School one of my roles is to “set you up for success.” The HPCA student handbook is a tool that will lay the foundation for an enjoyable year. Let us honor God together through our obedience, let us work through conflict with the intent of a positive resolution, and let us extend grace equally to one another daily. I look forward to making many memories with you this school year!

In Him,Mrs. P

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Table of Contents

Educational philosophy 7Mission 7Vision 7School scripture 7School colors 7Mascot 7Core values *(NEW) 8Academic honesty *(NEW) 9Accreditation 10Activities 10Admission policies *(NEW) 10Alcohol / drug use 11Arrival / departure *(NEW) 11Attendance 12Bullying 13Bus behavior 14Cars /vehicles 15Changes of address, e-mail or phone *(NEW) 16Chapel and Truth bomb panel 16Classwork / homework 17Clubs 17College visitation *(NEW) 17Community service *(NEW) 18Compliments / complaints / concern *(NEW) 18Conferences 19Counseling 19Courses / Credits *(NEW) 19Deliveries & gifts to students and staff *(NEW) 20Discipline 20Dress code *(NEW) 22Early dismissal / late arrival *(NEW) 24Emergency drills 25Finances *(NEW) 25

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Fundraising *(NEW) 26Grading system 26Graduation credit requirements *(NEW) 27Hall passes 27Health records 27Homeschool hybrid *(NEW) 28Honors and advanced placement courses *(NEW) 28Hours *(NEW) 29Illness *(NEW) 29Instructional Resources Center (IRC) *(NEW) 30Internet use *(NEW) 31Leaving campus 32Lice / nit control *(NEW) 33Lost or damaged property 33Lunch 33Medication *(NEW) 34National Honor Society 34Office hours *(NEW) 34Parent pick-up line 35Parent volunteers 35Prohibited items / contraband *(NEW) 36Probationary status *(NEW) 37Promotion to next grade level *(NEW) 38Public displays of affection *(NEW) 38Refund policy *(NEW) 38Report cards & interims *(NEW) 38Restrooms 38Retention *(NEW) 39Student schedules 39School closures *(NEW) 39Search & seizure 39Semester exams *(NEW) 39Smoking /tobacco *(NEW) 40Social media 40Student government 40Summer reading *(NEW) 41

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Supplies *(NEW) 41Telephone *(NEW) 41Testing assessment 41Textbook selection 42Transcripts/ records 42Tuition *(NEW) 42Visitors 44Withdrawals *(NEW) 44

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EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

Our educational philosophy at HPCA is based on a God-centered view that the Bible is the inspired and

authoritative Word of God. Our desire is that the Word of God permeate all areas of our curriculum and

activities. It is from a concern for the spiritual needs of our students that we approach the intellectual, social,

emotional, and physical aspects of the whole student. This philosophy is reflected in our goals:

1. To proclaim the Bible is the inspired, true, and authoritative Word of God which guides our faith and

practice. (II Timothy 3: 14-17, II Peter 2:20-21)

2. To understand that all of us are sinners, none deserve God’s grace (Romans 3: 10-12), and that faith in

Jesus Christ is the way to have fellowship with God and be assured of salvation. (John 6:40)

3. To encourage students to have Christ-like character traits. (Matthew 12:35)

4. To help students become transformed by accepting Christ and developing a personal relationship with

Jesus Christ. (Matthew 22:37, Romans 12:2)

5. To teach students to articulate and defend their faith, in the face of contrasting worldviews.

(Colossians 2:8 and I Timothy 6:20)

6. To foster cooperation and develop good relationships. (Romans 14:19, Romans 12:17-18,

I Peter 2:13-17)

7. To instill a heart for the world and for service. (John 15:12, Galatians 5:14)

8. To prepare students for higher learning and the pursuit of knowledge, truth, and wisdom.

(Proverbs 4:1-9)

MISSIONOur mission is for students to know Jesus Christ and make Him known.

VISIONOur vision is to prepare students for college, life, and ministry.

SCHOOL SCRIPTURE “For plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

SCHOOL COLORSGold & Gray

MASCOTJudah the Lion

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CORE VALUES

Recognizing that we teach the whole student we strive to build a student’s character as well as teach academic

content. The fruits of the spirit described in Galatians 5:22-23 are easily found in believers as they mature in

their faith. However, the same character traits will help the non-believing student leave a positive influence

wherever they go.

LOVE – Love God, love others, love yourself.

JOY- Joy is a choice and is not dependent upon your circumstance or environment.

PEACE – At all times, strive to maintain peace with God, others and ourselves.

FOREBEARANCE – Also known as patience or perseverance is the ability to keep trying when it’s easier to quit. In

so doing, you’re developing patience and endurance.

KINDNESS –It’s when the thought of others comes before the thought of self.

GOODNESS - Performing acts to benefit others ‘just because’; not seeking attention, recognition, or a personal

benefit.

FAITHFULNESS – Being known as someone people can trust consistently for help and encouragement.

GENTLENESS – Free of pride, easily caring for others, giving understanding to others, while developing a

servant’s heart.

SELF-CONTROL – Avoiding extreme behavior, exercising restraining in both actions and speech.

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This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-NDThis Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND

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ACADEMIC HONESTY *(NEW)Students of HighPoint Christian Academy are expected to maintain the highest standards of honesty and

integrity. As such, cheating is not tolerated. A student caught cheating will receive a zero for the academic grade

and a discipline referral. This could also result in expulsion from the school permanently.

Cheating is: (not inclusive list)

Giving/receiving unauthorized help on assignments for credit

Submitting someone else work as your own

Not using authorized materials (i.e. watching a movie rather than reading the novel)

Having another person do your work

Referencing your notes, or a “cheat sheet” during a test when the teacher has not authorized

Looking onto another person’s paper

Taking the teacher’s test (or looking at it before it was intended for you to see)

Looking up answers on the internet

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is when you intentionally, or unintentionally, take another person’s words, images, or ideas and pass

them along as your own without giving them the rightful credit. A student found to have plagiarized on an

assignment will receive a zero for the academic grade and a discipline referral. This could also result in expulsion

from the school permanently.

Common forms of plagiarism include: (not inclusive list)

Using direct quote without quotation marks

Misquoting sources

A quote or quotes without using quotation marks

A quote or quotes without immediately citing the source

Paraphrase incorrectly

Copy images/material without permission (or) citation

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ACCREDITATION

HighPoint Christian Academy is dedicated to maintaining high academic standards. Our teachers are carefully

selected as Christian leaders and only teach within areas that they have credentials. We are fully accredited

through Christian Schools of Florida (CSF) and National Council of Private School Accreditation (NCPA). CSF

provides a voice for Christian school at both the state and national level influencing legal decisions.

ACTIVITIES

HPCA uses a variety of activities to further enhance the educational experience which may include but are not

limited to educational field trips, recreational activities, seasonal parties, movies, mission trips, community

service activities, Christian entertainment, and guest speakers. Some of these activities will be considered an

extension of the classroom and an expectation for your student’s academics, while others are optional. As such,

there may be programs that will require small fees for admission and/or transportation or may have other

criteria associated, since they represent our Academy. In the event your student does not attend an off-campus

activity, they will be required to attend school as usual and may be required to complete an alternative

assignment.

ADMISSION POLICIES *(NEW)

Interested persons are encouraged to visit the school for a tour and to seek answers to their educational

questions. If interested in pursuing HighPoint Christian Academy (HPCA) as their educational choice, the

prospective family will work closely with the Head of School to determine if a student would benefit from our

Christian college preparatory program. If HPCA is not the best school for an interested family, we will do our

best to recommend local schools that best suit the educational needs of the student. HPCA does not

discriminate against any student or family due to race, color, religion, gender, nationality. Students are admitted

based upon:

Availability of space within a grade level (or) minimum student count for a grade level

Completed application packet - including payment of enrollment fees

Favorable recommendations from last school attended

Submission of standardized test scores (within the last 2 years),

Interview with administration

Upon acceptance, family will attend an intake meeting with administration and a returning

student and their family will agree to meet annually with Head of School for an invitation

meeting.

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The academy reserves the right to place a student in a lower grade if it is deemed necessary.

HPCA’s curriculum is embedded in the Word of God and rooted in biblical standards supportive of moral conduct

honoring of those standards. As such, we cite examples of moral misconduct to include, but not limited, to

supporting or condoning sexual immorality, homosexual activity, bisexual activity, sexual harassment, use or

viewing pornographic material, inappropriate cell phones or electronic transmissions. As such, HPCA reserves

the right, within its sole discretion, to refuse admission to an applicant or discontinue enrollment of a student

whose family, parent or student does not concur with the moral conduct, mission of our school, or respect the

rules and/or policies of HighPoint Christian Academy.

In the event parents wish to appeal decisions for discontinued enrollment made by Administration, a written

letter of appeal describing the situation should be drafted and addressed to the HighPoint Christian Academy’s

School Board. The letter will be added to the next regular scheduled meeting in which the Board will be issue the

final ruling on enrollment.

ALCOHOL/DRUG USE

Any student who is suspected of alcohol or drug use may be required to submit to an independent drug test. If a

student brings drugs, drug paraphernalia, or alcohol to school or to a school sponsored activity, parents will be

notified. The student may be suspended, expelled, and/or required to enroll in an alternative program, and/or

submit to counseling. Smoking/vaping and tobacco products of any kind are not permitted on campus or at off-

campus school events.

ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE *(NEW)

Supervision of the parent drop-off lane begins at 8:00 a.m. by an employee of HPCA. Students should

not be dropped off prior to 8:00 a.m. Students arriving before 8:00 a.m. will be charged $1.00/minute

per student before-school care fee to their tuition account. **EXCEPTION: Students who are enrolled

and participating in before/after school program, as available are excluded from this **

School hours are 8:30 a.m. – 2:50 p.m.

For the safety of all students, we cannot permit unsupervised siblings to wait for the dismissal of clubs

for family pickup. We do welcome siblings to join a club together.

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To ensure the safety of all students, all cars must load/unload in the designated areas. Parents are

encouraged to park in the grassy area of the parking lot to alleviate the long line backing up onto Knight

Boxx.

Students who drive themselves to school must provide proof of insurance and a copy of their driver’s

license. They are required to depart school property immediately after being dismissed.

ATTENDANCE

ALL school days are important – including early dismissal days, days surrounding holidays and the last week of

school. To fully accomplish their individual academic goals, students must attend each class, each day, for the

full class period. We will follow the Florida's Compulsory School Attendance laws, found in Florida State Statute

1003.26. The office will verify absences. Students who are late should report to the office to get an admit slip for

class.

Send in a note:

Following an absence, a handwritten note must be received from the guardian within 3 days of returning to

school. It is the discretion of the Head of School whether absences for family emergencies or extended absences

are considered excused or unexcused. Notes from medical offices will be excused. All notes should include the

date written, date of absence(s), reason for absence and authorizing signature.

Make-up Work:

Sometimes, families want to collect assignments for their student to complete while recovering at home to

minimize falling behind in their studies. We applaud your dedications. Parents wishing to collect work for

students on extended absences must give the school written notice and at least 24 hours’ preparation to collect

assignments. Please email Mrs. Pleasant at rpleasant@highpointccop.com and she will contact teachers to

collect assignments on your behalf.

Prior Leave Notice:

At other times, parents need to take students on planned trips. Incidents when a student knows that they will be

out of school for an extended period of 3 or more days, require approval from the Principal/Head of School prior

to leaving. Notify teachers, via email, a week in advance to prepare assignments during the approved absence;

all graded work is due upon the student’s return.

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Missed Work:

It is the student’s responsibility to gather work missed when they return. We cannot interrupt class time to

gather their missed work while they were absent. Students who are late to school are responsible to turn in

their work at the same time as other students. Students with an excused absence have 3 days to make up their

assignments. **1st and 6th periods are just as important as all other classes. Therefore, parents should make

every effort to get their student to school on time and not check them out early unless it is an important reason.

HPCA recognizes that instructional minutes matter! We protect the instructional setting to maximize the

learning within the classroom to prepare your student for the best future possible. The Head of School will

review attendance records monthly looking at each student’s absences and tardy records. Each quarter,

students’ attendance is reviewed. When a student has accumulated 3 absences/tardy, a letter will be sent to

parents notifying of the absences. For the remainder of the school year, the student’s attendance will be closely

monitored and sanctions such as requiring a doctor’s note may be required for each absence, a student may be

placed on academic probation for excessive absenteeism which may also be grounds for non-renewal at HPCA.

BULLYING:

HighPoint Christian Academy is designed to be an environment that promotes unity, equality and acceptance

through the love of Christ Jesus. All should feel welcomed and have the opportunity to feel valued, appreciated,

needed, loved, and that they belong.

Sexual harassment of students by other students or by employees of HighPoint Christian Academy is unlawful

and contrary to our commitment to provide a safe learning and working environment. There is a ZERO

tolerance policy for any type or form of sexual harassment, abuse or bullying here at HPCA.

Harassment includes, but is not limited to, slurs, jokes, and other verbal, graphic, or offensive conduct relating to

race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, or disability.

Bullying includes, but is not limited to, physical or verbal aggression (hitting, kicking, taunting, teasing,

threatening, ridiculing, etc.) relational aggression (harming or threatening to harm relationships or acceptance,

friendship, or group inclusion), emotional aggression (teasing, threatening, intimidating others).

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The school also prohibits cyber-bullying (creating websites, instant messaging, e-mails, using camera phones, or

other forms of technology to engage in harassment or bullying).

All students and school employees are expected to conduct themselves with respect and dignity for others. All

concerns relating to harassment, abuse, or bullying should be reported upon the knowledge of such event to the

administration and it will be immediately investigated. Anyone found to have violated this policy will be subject

to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the school if they are a student or termination of

employment if they are an employee. Criminal charges will be handled by civil authorities. Students and

employees are encouraged to report any conduct that makes them feel uncomfortable, is bothersome, or is

contrary to a stable learning environment.

BUS BEHAVIOR

The church bus/van is an extension of the school campus. The school reserves the right to remove students

from the bus/van either temporarily or permanently if their behavior warrants such action. Any act that impairs

the safety of the bus/van riders, students, other motorists, or in any way defaces or damages a bus/van is

unacceptable.

Students are expected to:

Enter and leave the bus/van in an orderly manner

Obey all the rules of the bus/van and bus/van driver

Select a seat and once seated, stay in that seat for the entire trip with seatbelt buckled

Deposit all trash in a proper receptacle and assist with cleaning bus interior at the end of all

events.

Students may not:

Put arms, head, or legs out of a window

Use any abusive or profane language or gestures

Stand on a moving bus/van.

Strike, push, tease, or otherwise abuse another student

Throw any objects inside or out of the bus/van

Leave their seat while the bus/van is in motion or without permission

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*Signing the permission form in the application packet indicates you are aware that your student may ride with

a pre-approved parent or HPCA employee.

FIELD TRIP PERMISSION: 2018-19

Student Name: _______________________________________________________

I give my permission for the above referenced student to attend field trips as a part of HighPoint Christian Academy’s program.  I agree to

release and discharge HighPoint Community Church and/or HighPoint Christian Academy, its officers, teachers, pre-approved parents, and

employees, exercising reasonable care within their scope of employment, from liability growing out of personal injuries resulting or occurring

during these activities, or in transit to and from said activities.

It is the sole responsibility of the student when bringing personal belongings on such trips, as such HighPoint Christian Academy staff may

request that such items be left behind so that there is no loss or damage to personal property.

____________________________________         _______________________          Parent’s Signature                       Date

CARS/VEHICLES

Driving is a privilege that comes with a responsibility. Student drivers are expected to use great caution always

while on campus. The following guidelines are in place for student drivers, failure to follow them will result in

disciplinary action including but not limited to temporary suspension of driving privilege, revocation of driving

privilege or expulsion.

Driving is a privilege and requires parent's written permission.

Student drivers must park in designated student parking area only.

Speed limit on campus is 10 mph.

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Parents of the driver and the passengers must notify the school in writing if they allow a student driver

to transport other students. Carpooling between parents is highly encouraged.

Students may not drive off campus during school hours without parental AND administrative permission.

Students may not go to their vehicles during school hours

Students are not permitted to sit or loiter in parking areas.

School officials have the right to search a student’s vehicle’s interior, exterior, or any compartment.

Driving and parking is at the student’s own risk. HighPoint Christian Academy will not be held

responsible for any damage.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS, EMAIL OR PHONE *(NEW)

Please notify the school office as soon as possible when your address, phone number or email changes. This is

vital information we need in the event of an emergency, for health information, school updates, or just to notify

you of your student’s most recent achievement!

CHAPEL AND TRUTH BOMB PANEL

Our chapel program is designed to give students a weekly worship and inspirational experience, encouraging

students to lead where appropriate. The chapel program is under the direction of the Pastors of HPCC and HPCA

staff.

Assemblies for character education are also held from time to time. A variety of programs will be scheduled,

often involving speakers from the community (including members of the clergy or youth ministers), videos,

activities, student presentations, and discussion. Students are always expected to participate in a respectful

manner always.

In addition to the weekly chapel, we also host the Truth Bomb Panel discussion. Students submit anonymous

questions in which a panel led by HighPoint Community Church’s Lead Pastor, Executive Pastor and Youth Pastor

answer the questions posed by the students from a biblical perspective combined with their life experience and

years of experience working with youth. Parents are provided a summary of the questions answered and

scripture references cited to further follow up at home for family discussion.

Parents/families are welcome to attend both Chapel and Truth Bomb Panel discussions.

CLASSWORK/HOMEWORK

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Students are expected to work for the entire period and to complete all assigned work. Students will have work

to complete at home. Parents are expected to encourage students in the completion of these assignments.

Parents and students are encouraged to go to our www.Gradelink.com site daily to access grades, current

assignments, upcoming assignments, and tests/quizzes. Parents are encouraged to check their email accounts

for messages from school staff daily.

Each course content differs from one another just as each teacher’s style and rule vary from classroom to

classroom. See each individual teacher’s syllabus at the end of this handbook for their policy on homework,

grading, and late work. However, please note there are some school-wide policies that span all classroom

settings:

Assignments with an assigned date that occurs during an absence are due upon return to school

Make-up work for excused absences are due within 3 school days of returning, unless the teacher has

offered an extended due date in email to parent and Principal.

Make-up work for unexcused absence is due upon student returning to school. Student is subject to late

work penalty deduction.

CLUBS

HPCA clubs are provided to enhance and enrich student lives. Clubs are created based upon student interests

and sponsor availability. Due to the nature of club activities, there may be an additional fees or fundraising

associated with these clubs. Only students in club activities are permitted to remain on campus while club is

meeting. For the safety of all students, siblings who are not enrolled in the club may not wait for shared

transportation; separate transportation plans will need to be made.

COLLEGE VISITATION *(NEW)

We encourage students to visit college campuses to determine which college best suits them. Therefore, we will

permit High School students two approved days per year for college tours, proof of the college visit needs to be

submitted. All policies regarding make-up work due to absence still apply.

COMMUNITY SERVICE *(NEW)

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Following the model and command of Jesus of serving one another, each HPCA student is required to log 25

hours of community service per academic year. Hours can be earned from July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019. Spread

over a course of a typical 36-week academic year, this is less than one hour of service per week. As community

service hours are earned, submit letters of verification of hours, or the completed HighPoint Christian Academy

volunteer log to Mrs. Pleasant, Head of School for documentation in Grade Link.

Community Service Checkpoints

End of Quarter 1 7 hours

End of Quarter 2 14 hours

End of Quarter 3 21 hours

June 30, 2019 (unless you are a Senior!) 25 hours

Completion of community service hours is a graduation requirement.

HPCA reserves the right to require a minimum number of community service hours to participate in activities

and events held during the school year.

COMPLIMENTS/COMPLAINTS/CONCERNS: *(NEW)

A biblical approach to conflict (Matthew 18) should occur, which includes the following chain of command.

Parent to Teacher:

Parents should first meet with teachers directly through a parent-conference to discuss any questions or

concerns before including the Head of School. Conferences can be conducted via phone, email or in-

person. When emailing teachers, be reminded that they are away from their computers teaching a

majority of the day; therefore, please allow 24 hours for a response.

Parent to Administrator:

If the teacher issue remains unresolved, the concerned person should then consult the Head of School.

If someone has concerns regarding the school’s operational organization, it’s achievement, or conduct,

the concerned individual should first contact the Head of School to satisfy this concern. If the concerned

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party remains unsatisfied with the results of the discussion, they are to contact the Board Chair, Jeff

Styron, for a conference. Head of School and the concerned individual will then meet to discuss the

issue collectively.

CONFERENCES

At any time, you feel the need to meet with a teacher, please reach out to the teacher via email to schedule a

conference. Conferences can occur in person or via phone to accommodate schedules. Students are encouraged

to be present at the conference as they are key stakeholders. If a conference must be cancelled, a 3-hour notice

will be given to all parties.

COUNSELING

Students may counsel with their teachers or any administrator. Students wishing to see an administrator during

class should prearrange for an appointment.

COURSES/CREDITS* (NEW)

Middle/ Junior High School (6-8)

1. Language Arts (Emphasis on grammatical mechanics, written, composition, vocabulary expansion and

various genres of literature)

2. Math (Emphasis on individualized basic math skills and real-world problem solving)

3. Science (General Science topics from life and earth science, applying problem solving, and skills the

scientific inquiry from a biblical perspective)

4. Social Studies (Civics: our roles, rights and responsibilities as good citizens and Christ’s

representatives. / Geography: physical maps, cultural characteristics and relationships between earth

and its population/ U.S. History: establishing our country from Exploration through Reconstruction)

5. Electives (may include: P.E., Health, Keyboarding, World Language, etc.)

High (9-12)

1. English (4 credits emphasis on grammar, composition, reading for information, and literature;

required every year)

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2. Math (4 credits individualized courses in either basic math or college prep math, two of which

should be Algebra 1, Geometry or their equivalent and the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace during the

student’s senior year; math is required every year)

3. Science (3 credits in science, one of which must be Biology)

4. Social Studies (3 credits in American Govt./Economics, World History, and American History.

Geography also may be taken if extra credits are needed.)

5. PE/Health (1 credit personal fitness/recreation, sports offered each year; 1 year or its equivalent is

required)

6. Electives (7 credits -The school, with the student, chooses the electives, which are offered on a

rotating basis.)

7. World Languages (2 credits are required for universities and Bright Futures in the same language.)

Extra course credits may be requested on an individual basis and earned after regular school hours through

independent study, work credits, virtual classes (FLVS), or dual enrollment at SJRSC.

DELIVERIES & GIFTS TO STUDENTS & STAFF *(NEW)

In order to protect the educational environment, we will hold all deliveries and gifts in the school office until the

end of day for the intended recipient to minimize classroom distractions. Likewise, classes will not be

interrupted to inform students they received a delivery/gift; they will be informed at lunch or end of day.

DISCIPLINE

Teachers are trained and equipped to manage behaviors within their classroom. If a situation is too disruptive,

or a student is not positively responding to the teacher’s redirection, Administration and/or Law Enforcement

may need to become involved.

When a referral is written by a teacher, it is after they have made multiple attempts to resolve the situation or

the situation was disruptive to the learning environment due to a student’s behavior or a classroom incident.

The responding administrator will collect information from all involved parties (teacher, witness(es), and

involved student(s), investigate the incident and impart corrective action (conferencing, counseling, reflective

time, parent contact, etc.). Disciplinary actions are recorded in GradeLink.

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Seeing the need for spiritual growth in the light of Biblical principles, HPCA has adopted standards of conduct

which are believed to be conducive to promote the spiritual, physical, and academic welfare of the students.

Mutual respect for teachers and fellow students reduces the need for disciplinary action. Should misconduct

occur and consequences become necessary, it will be accomplished as follows:

Warning

Student conferencing / student redirection

Counseling

Reflective Time

Contacting Parents

Parent Conference

Essay assignment

Grade of zero received on an assignment (Cheating / Plagiarism)

Work Detail

Lunch Detention

In-School Suspension

After-School Detention: Thursdays 2:50 to 3:50 p.m. may include work detail

Saturday School

Out-of-School Suspension (work assigned during OSS is not accepted for a grade)

Expulsion

Other action(s) as determined by the Administrator

**Although our goal is to keep the student at school and in class, at times it may be necessary to remove a

disruptive student from class or send the student home. If a parent conference is required to resolve the actions,

the student may be asked to stay home until parents can come in to develop a plan of action. **

Actions that threaten or harm a student's ability to function within a classroom or impede other student’s

education will require further corrective measures. Therefore, a parent conference must be held before a

student can return to school with an action plan that ensures the safety of all other students for stealing,

cursing, cheating, vandalism, bullying (anything that is perceived as intimidation), sexual harassment, or other

serious misconduct. Although this list of infractions is not exhaustive, it represents behavior that is not

acceptable.

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HPCA has a “zero tolerance” policy for violence, weapons (knives – including pocketknives, fireworks, lighters,

heavy chains, metal objects, etc.), fighting, and threats (including jokes which could be interpreted as a threat)

from students or parents. Bringing any weapon may result in immediate dismissal and/or police action.

All disciplinary infractions and correlating actions are logged into Gradelink.

DRESS CODE *(NEW)

Students are required to dress appropriately always. All attire should be modest and clean. Students are

required to wear HPCA uniform Monday through Thursday. Students who have complied with dress code

requirements Monday- Thursday, they earn a “DRESS DOWN FRIDAY” (see below for requirements). If a student

has failed to meet the dress code requirements Monday through Thursday, they may not participate in Dress

Down Friday.

HPCA UNIFORM:

BOTTOMS :

Solid color slacks (no prints or plaids),

Jeans, shorts, skirts, or capris without holes or rips worn at the waist with button and a

zipper

Sagging pants below the waist are not permitted.

Dresses, skirts, shorts, and capris must be of an appropriately modest length (no more

than 2” above the top of the kneecap).

No leggings, jeggings, or yoga pants unless worn under an appropriate length skirt.

TOPS :

Uniform shirt styles include: t-shirt, collar or button down. Females must have a modest

neckline or opt to wear layered shirts. All uniform tops are to be stitched with the school

logo and worn Monday through Thursdays. Approved vendors are:

(1) Logo Express 904-278-7774

(2) TLC Enterprises 904-861-8170 or order online at www.tlc-ent.com

(3) Neptune Embroidery 904-707-6074

Each year, a designated ‘off-campus’ shirt is declared and given to students at the start

of the year. This shirt is to be worn on all off-campus events such as field trips,

community service, etc.

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If a student has complied with dress code Monday – Thursday, they can “dress down”

on Friday.

GENERAL CLOTHING :

Undergarments should not be visible.

Clothing should not be transparent or see-through.

Clothing should be free of holes, frays or tears.

Shirt lengths should be long enough to cover midriff

OUTERWEAR: Monday through Thursday, all outerwear must have the school logo. Hoodies are

NOT permitted on campus.

SHOES:

Closed toe and closed heel shoes.

Shoes designed for shoelaces must be properly laced and tied.

Water shoes are prohibited unless prescribed attire for a select event/outing.

Any shoe, which is considered to have safety concerns, such as house slippers, may not

be worn.

Steel-toe shoes are not permitted at any time.

JEWELRY

Jewelry is meant to compliment and not distract and should be limited to:

1 watch that does not record, transmit, receive, or play back audio photographic, text or

video content

Earlobe gauges are NOT permitted.

TATTOOS & BODY PIERCINGS

Students are not permitted to have visible tattoos or body piercings.

MAKE-UP

Boys are not allowed to wear make-up

Girls are not permitted to wear heavy make-up.

HAIR:

Hair must be neatly groomed (clean, combed, tidy).

Dyed hair must be a traditional, natural color.

Facial hair on boys must also be neatly groomed (neat, clean, trim).

Hair must be styled to prevent covering of the eyes. (Males are not permitted to wear hair

accessories to tie back hair.)

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HATS /HEADGEAR:

During PE class, students are permitted to wear a ball cap and/or sunglass for sun

protection.

Hats, scarves, headgear are NOT considered part of the school uniform; nor are they

permitted to be worn inside the building.

P.E. ATTIRE:

Students must dress out every day – it is part of their participation grade! Students are given enough time to

change before and after PE.

A t-shirt and gym-type shorts need to be worn.

Tennis shoes are required for P.E.

Girls can wear sleeveless shirts or tank tops (straps must be at least two inches in width

and no spaghetti straps) and capri sweat pants or other pants typically worn for

exercising.

All gym shorts should be modest in length and loose fitting.

DRESS DOWN FRIDAY:

Shirts: appropriate decoration/language, no midriff showing, straps must be 2” wide

Pants: fit at the waist, solid in color, have a button & zipper

Shoes: closed toe, closed heel

Students should be neatly groomed and maintain proper hygiene. They should remain in dress code upon

arrival and remain until they leave the premises.

Students in school, at school functions, or wearing the school logo after school hours are representatives of the

school and are expected to conduct themselves appropriately.

EARLY DISMISSAL/LATE ARRIVAL *(NEW) Early release days end at 11:30 a.m.

We appreciate your cooperation in scheduling appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.

However, we know that this is not always possible. When a student must leave school early, or arrive late, a

student must sign the tardy/dismissal log located in the school office. Signing the tardy/dismissal log is

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mandatory and helps document excused absence and extends grace for make-up work in accordance to the

school policy. Failure to sign the log will forfeit the extended time for assignments.

We shall try to honor request of written notes for your student to be ready and waiting for pickup in the office at

a certain time. However, your note is a request and cannot be construed as a guarantee.

For the safety of our students, parents must enter the school office and retrieve their students, we are unable to

send them outside to your car. Parents, or those authorized to pick up students, will need to have a valid picture

identification to leave with a student; this is for the protection of the student.

**NO STUDENT MAY BE CHECKED OUT AFTER 2:25 p.m.**

EMERGENCY DRILLS

In the interest of student safety, it is necessary to conduct periodic fire and emergency drills. All fire exits are

clearly marked. When a drill is in progress, students are expected to follow these rules:

Leave as quickly and quietly as possible.

No talking is permitted except through the teacher’s communication.

Follow your teacher to the parking lot or other designated area and remain in line.

When all-clear signal is announced, return quickly and quietly to class.

Tampering with any fire safety equipment (alarms, sprinkler system, etc.) is a federal offense.

FINANCES* (NEW)

An application is to be made at the time of enrollment.

The non-refundable, non-transferrable admission fee of $200 is due at the time of registration.

Testing fee ($200) and textbook fee ($175 for returning and $350 for new students) are due

before start of school.

Tuition payment plans are available from the administrative office. We participate in the McKay

Scholarship, Gardiner/PLSA Scholarship program, and Step-Up for Students private corporate

scholarships. Academic scholarships are available to high performing students. while other

partial scholarships are sometimes available on a need basis.

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Monthly payments are due on the 1st of the month.

If payment is not received after 15 days, a $35 late fee will be charged.

If tuition is not paid in a timely manner, your GradeLink account will be locked.

If a student's tuition becomes seriously in arrears, the student will not be able to continue

classes until the tuition is paid in full.

Returned checks: Our bank will automatically redeposit a check at a fee of $12; this fee will

automatically be billed to your account. In the event a check is returned a second time, you will

need to submit payment via cash, cashier’s check or money order.

FUNDRAISING *(NEW)

Throughout the year we will host various ways that you can support HighPoint Christian Academy from our

larger fundraising efforts (fall fundraiser, spring fundraiser) to our small (in-house) efforts such as Penny Wars.

With each fundraiser we proclaim where the proceeds will benefit; so, that you know what we’re working

towards. All fundraisers impact all HPCA students! As such, we encourage you to support the fundraisers that

work best for your family. And when selling items, we ask that students do NOT go door to door to unfamiliar

homes, and always go with supervision.

GRADING SYSTEM

Report cards are issued quarterly. The quarter grade for each subject is determined by averaging grades for

weighted categories such as participation, classwork, tests, projects. Grades “A-F” are assigned based on

individual academic progress. See “Attendance” for making up assignments.

In a few cases, if students are working below grade level expectations; this will be noted on their report cards.

The school grading scale is:

A...90 - 100%

B...80 - 89%

C...70 - 79%

D...60 - 69%

F... 59% and below

I... Incomplete

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It is the parent’s responsibility to monitor their student’s grades/assignments via GradeLink

(www.gradelink.com), or via the school webpage at:

www.highpointchristianacademy.com . If you misplace your username/password,

call the academy office.

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**All classes are weighted on the 4.0 grading scale except dual enrollment classes which are weighted at 5.0.

GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS *(NEW)

For a student to graduate from HPCA, the student must complete their community service hours and have

completed 24 credits in grades 9-12. The 24 credits must be fulfilled as follows:

English 4

Mathematics 4

Science 3

Social Science 3

P.E./Health 1

Foreign Language* 2

Electives ** 7

Total: 24

* HPCA graduates are required to take a minimum of 2 years of Foreign Language.

** While we teach all subject through a biblical perspective, most of our biblical teaching comes through courses under the

elective course headings which are required for every HPCA student. The course names vary depending on Junior/Middle and High

School. There are 4 core biblical classes required at the High School level:

Course(s) Emphasis

Ethics (.5 credit)

Volunteer Public Service (.5 credit)

Character and traits of Christ

Serving others

Philosophy 1 (.5 credit)

Peer Counseling 1 (.5 credit)

Old Testament

Strong, Christian relationships in accordance to the Bible

Philosophy 2 Honors (1.0 credit) New Testament

World Religion (.5 credit)

Peer Counseling 2 (.5 credit)

Differing world religions

Strong, Christian relationships in accordance to the Bible

HALL PASSES

Students should leave class as seldom as possible and should always obtain the teacher’s permission and a hall

pass before leaving class. This year, the hall pass is within the student’s planner for teachers and parents alike

to see the ‘entire day at a glance’ for out-of-class needs.

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HEALTH RECORDS

Florida law requires all students attending school in Florida for the FIRST TIME to have a physical examination

within the 12-month period prior to entering a Florida school. NO STUDENT WILL BE ADMITTED TO CLASS UNTIL

THIS IS COMPLETED AS REQUIRED BY LAW.

Below is the checklist of requirements that must be presented to the school office by the first day of

attendance:

1. Documentation of physical examination

2. Florida Certificate of Immunization (if entering from out of state, the student’s immunization record

must be verified by a Florida physical or the Clay County Health Department. Either the physician or

health department will issue the certificate or issue a temporary certificate,

3. Every Florida student entering 7th grade or higher must have proof of these vaccinations:

a. Diphtheria-tetanus-acellular-pertussis [DtaP] (4 or 5 doses)

b. Inactivated polio vaccine [IPV] (4or 5 doses)

c. Measles -mumps-rubella [MMR] (2 doses)

d. Hepatitis B [HepB] (3 doses over 6 months)

e. Varicella (2 doses)

HOMESCHOOL HYBRID *(NEW)

Effective the 2018-19 school year we offer a limited number of slots for homeschool students desiring to

integrate and participate in a traditional, on-campus setting. Students may take up to 2 courses on campus per

academic year upon successfully completing the application process and approval. Homeschool Hybrid students

are expected to follow the same rules as HighPoint Christian Academy students.

FEES:

>Application Fee: $100

>Tuition: $1250/course

>Course Grade/Credit: Students and parents will receive access to Grade Link to track grades and

retrieve interim and report cards.

>Miscellaneous: Homeschool Hybrid students are eligible to attend/partake in field trips, class related

or school-wide events, yearbooks etc. at additional costs not included in above course fees.

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HONORS AND ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES * (NEW)

HONORS

The following criteria must be met for students registering for Honors courses:

Committed to the demands of the course.

Teacher recommendation in the last same-subject course.

Minimum of B in the last same-subject course. For English and History courses, must have earned a

minimum grade of B in last English course.

Students enrolled in Honors courses are automatically placed on probationary basis the first nine-weeks.

If it appears the student is unable to manage the workload or demands of the course, the student will be

moved to the subject course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

The following criteria must be met for students register for Advance Placement (AP) courses:

Committed to the demands of the course.

Teacher recommendation in the last same-subject course.

Minimum of B in the last same-subject course. For English and History courses, must have earned a

minimum grade of B in last English course

Students enrolled in AP courses are automatically placed on probationary basis the first nine-

weeks. If it appears the student is unable to manage the workload or demands of the course, the

student will be moved to Honors or the subject course. Students taking an AP class are required to

take the AP exam at their own expense.

HOURS *(NEW)

The school day is from 8:30 a.m. -2:50 p.m., please note that teacher’s hours vary, and appointments should be

scheduled in advance.

ILLNESS*(NEW)

Should a student become ill or incur a minor injury while at school the school will contact parents to make

arrangements for pickup.

If your student isn’t feeling well and has a communicable disease (see below) we ask that you help us minimize

spreading it to other students and keep your student at home until the evidence [ fever, rash, cough, diarrhea,

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headache, vomiting] disappears. **NO STUDENT WITH A FEVER OF 100 DEGREES OR HIGHER MAY BE IN

SCHOOL** Students may return to school once their temperature has been normal for 24 hours.

Communicable diseases:

Acquired Immune

Deficiency

Syndrome (AIDS)

Chancroid Hansen’s Disease

(Leprosy)

Malaria Poliomyelitis Schistosomiasis Typhoid Fever

Aids Related

Complex (ARC)

Dengue Hemorrhagic

Fevers

Measles

(rubeola)

Psittacosis Shigellosis Typhus

Amebiasis Diphtheria Hepatitis Meningitis Rabies Smallpox Vibrio Cholera

Animal bite of a

potentially rabid

animal

Encephalitis Histoplasmosis Meningococcal

Disease

Relapsing Fever Tetanus Vibrio

Infections

Anthrax Fifths Disease Human

Immunodeficiency

Virus

Paralytic

Shellfish

Poisoning

Rocky Mountain

Spotted Fever

Toxoplasmosis

(acute)

Yellow Fever

Botulism Giardiasis

(acute)

Legionnaires’

Disease

Pertussis Rubella

Rickettsia

(including

Congenital)

Trichinosis

Brucellosis Gonorrhea Leptospirosis Pesticide

poisoning

Salmonellosis Tuberculosis

Campylobacteriosis Granuloma

Inguinal

Lymphogranuloma Plague Scarlet Fever Tularemia

INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCE CENTER -IRC *(NEW)

Located in room 1, the HighPoint Christian Academy’s computer lab, students may check out printed materials

or peruse the list of online and audio books available. See the informational book for instructions on how to

access the checkout - return system.

Students may check out as many books as they choose for as long as they wish. We do ask that they be

courteous for their fellow readers.

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Classroom teachers may take classes to visit the IRC as needed for classroom projects and research.

The IRC is open during school hours and is monitored by the Computer Lab instructor and managed by our

Itinerant Media Specialist.

INTERNET USE *(NEW)

I understand that I must use HighPoint Christian Academy (HPCA) technology systems in a way, to ensure that

there is no risk to the safety and security of the school and other users. I fully recognize the usage of technology

and internet at school is a privilege and not a right. As a HPCA digital citizen, I agree to HPCA’s Acceptable Use

Policy conditions set forth below.

For my personal safety:

o Respect Yourself

o I will select online names that are appropriate.

o I will consider the information and images I select, use, and post.

o I will consider what personal information I share.

o I will not be obscene.

o Protect Yourself

o I will not disclose my username or password to anyone else, nor will I try to use any person’s

username and password.

o I will properly shut down computers and not leave any accounts open.

o I will ensure that the information, images, and materials I post online will not put me at risk.

o I will report any attacks or inappropriate behavior directed at me.

o I will not abuse my rights of access.

o Respect Others

o I will not use aggressive or inappropriate language.

o I will respect others and not use electronic mediums to bully, harass, threaten, or stalk others.

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o I will avoid websites, materials, or communications that are not honoring to God, degrading,

pornographic, inappropriate, or unrelated to a given educational assignment.

o Protect Others

o I will protect others by reporting abuse, not forwarding inappropriate materials /

communications.

o I will not open any hyperlinks or any attachments, unless the source is known and trusted. Nor

will I upload, download, or access any materials which are illegal.

o I will not install or attempt to install programs of any type on a machine or store programs on a

computer, nor will I try to alter computer settings.

o I will immediately report any damage or faults involving equipment or software, however it may

have happened.

o Respect Intellectual Property

o I will cite primary sources in all assignments, thus avoiding plagiarism.

o Protect Intellectual Property

o I will act with integrity and refrain from pirating or distributing software.

I will be honoring in my actions when using HPCA systems:

o I understand that HPCA will monitor my use of the school digital technology and communication

systems.

o I understand that the school digital technology systems are intended for educational use only.

o Personal technology devices are not permitted, outside of an Individualized Educational Plan

accommodation.

o I will refrain from sending or receiving personal email, instant messaging, or participating in chat rooms.

o If I fail to comply with this Acceptable Use Policy, I could be subject to disciplinary action or being barred

from usage of HPCA computer systems.

LEAVING CAMPUS

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Students are not permitted to leave campus at lunchtime, except on special occasions with adult supervision. If

students must leave early for doctor appointments or illness, they must be checked out from the office where

confirmation from a parent/guardian/pre-approved designee will be obtained.

LICE/NIT CONTROL *(NEW)

Occasionally we have cases of head lice. Anyone can get head lice and it has NOTHING to do with cleanliness and

does NOT reflect on parenting nor on the home environment! However, in the event of lice cases, any student

identified with head lice and/or nits (eggs) will be sent home for treatment of the lice and removal of nits from

the hair.

Students will not be permitted to return to school until all lice/nits are removed. Student and parent must report

to Head of School for inspection/clearance before being admitted back into school.

LOST OR DAMAGED PROPERTY

HighPoint Christian Academy is not responsible for any items lost or stolen. Located in the school office is a

basket of items that have been unclaimed on campus. Should a student misplace an item, they should check in

the office to see if the item has been located. At the end of each quarter, unclaimed items are donated to local

charitable agency.

The quickest way to have an item returned is to have it marked with the student’s name.

Damages to the building, fire sprinkler system, or any other property will be charged to the student’s accounts.

Students, who lean back in chairs bending or breaking them, will be required to pay for them. Payment will be

required for continued enrollment and/or the release of records.

Lost or damaged text or library books will result in replacement costs being charged to the student’s accounts.

LUNCH *(NEW)

Students may bring their lunch to school or order through vendors via our monthly calendar.

We are called to be good stewards of our property, therefore, eating and drinking should be limited to

the Fellowship Hall.

We do not provide paper products, plastic ware, or napkins.

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We are a closed campus for lunch, meaning students are not permitted to leave campus during their

lunch break.

Family members may be an honorary lunch guest on occasion, following the protocol for visitors

properly checking in at the office and obtaining proper identification; Head of School reserves the right

to limit visits if they are distracting to the student or others. However, you must remain in the

Fellowship Hall with your student.

School lunches are non-refundable.

MEDICATION *(NEW)

In compliance with FSS 1006.062, all medication, both prescription and over-the-counter, must be issued by a

nurse practitioner, a physician’s assistant or a physician and be accompanied by a prescription. Medication is to

be dispensed from its original container that has the pharmacy label with student name and dosage information

clearly noted.

At the end of the school year, parents are contacted to pick up any unused prescription or over-the-counter

medications specific to your student. Regrettably, we cannot send it home with your student.

Basic first aid supplies are provided.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

National Honor Society (NHS) is an organization recognizing outstanding high school students who excel both

academically and through service to their community. Membership in NHS helps to nurture leadership skills in

each of our students. The HPCA criteria for NHS is as follows:

3.75 weighted GPA

Teacher Recommendation

Students of good standing (no referrals)

Students with 1 or more “Incompletes” on a report card may be disqualified from participation in Honor Roll

activities.

OFFICE HOURS *(NEW)

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All guest must sign in at the Academy office and receive a Visitor’s Pass before visiting other areas of campus. All

visitors are subject to the approval of the Head of School.

SCHOOL YEAR: School office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. in accordance to the school calendar.

SUMMER HOURS: School office is open Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

PARENT PICK UP LINE:

You can help us keep our campus safe and reduce traffic on Knight Boxx by abiding by the following pick-up

procedures each afternoon. Students are dismissed at 2:50 p.m., so if you arrive early, please begin the pick-up

line by pulling up to the basketball hoops or parking in a designated parking spot.

We stagger student dismissal by various grade levels for safety reasons. As the students exit the building we

have staff to help guide students to the vehicle. You can help the line to move forward by:

Remain in your car. Please do not leave your car to go speak to another parent.

Stay alert, be looking for your student.

Keep moving forward. You do not need to stop in front of the school, we will send your student

to your car.

If you have your car loaded and can safely exit the line, we ask that you do so cautiously making

certain that no student or adult is crossing unexpectedly.

Students not picked up by 3:15 p.m. will be taken to the school office and parents will need to come to the

school office to collect students. Students not picked up by 3:15 p.m. will have an after-care fee charged to

their account at the following rate of $1.00/minute per student. **EXCEPTION: Students who are enrolled and

participating in before/after school program, as available are excluded from this **

NOTE: Parents who wish to park and walk up to collect their students may park in the student parking area

(grassy area near the Academy office). Please alert a staff member that you are collecting your student and use

the sidewalk to safely return to your car.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS

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At the time of renewal or registration, parents are extended the opportunity to volunteer for a variety of needs

and events at HighPoint Christian Academy. Based upon these responses, a database is kept, and parents are

contacted as needed (i.e. Spring fundraiser). However, HPCA may contact parents in the database as needs arise

and encourage parents to also reach out to the school if they see a way in which they can serve.

Due to the nature of some roles, volunteers may be required to undergo a background check, including

fingerprinting, which does incur a fee to be paid by the volunteer.

All guests on campus are required to check in at the school office and obtain a visitor’s pass, even when working

on campus as a volunteer.

PROHIBITED ITEMS / CONTRABAND *(NEW)

Certain specified items are not permitted on campus.

CONTRABAND: weapons, knives, drugs, alcohol, tobacco

The following items are not permitted to be used:

PROHIBITED ITEMS:

o Fidget spinners

o Electronic equipment (including radios/CD players, tablets, ipods/MP3 players, gaming

devices cameras, cell phones)

o Any device, including digital watches that can be used to record, transmit, receive, or

play back audio photographic, text or video content

o Gum/candy

o Any item that is a distraction to the learning environment

o Any over-the-counter medication (i.e. cough drops, etc.)

These items will be confiscated and returned at the discretion of the administration. Other items that are not

permitted are inappropriate reading materials or cards, trading cards or games cards that do not reflect

Christian values. HighPoint Administration reserves the right to determine what materials are inappropriate and

prohibited.

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Please note, that HPCA is not financially responsible for any prohibited item brought to school that is lost,

damaged or stolen; including cell phones.

Students must get permission from Head of School in advance, to bring any personal devices (including, but not

limited to: camera, computer, tablet, iPad, etc.)

PROBATIONARY STATUS *(NEW)

PROBATIONARY- ACADEMIC: Each quarter, the Head of School reviews report cards. Students who have

earned a failing grade in a core subject area will be placed on Probation- Academics for one quarter to

one semester. The student must earn passing grades or their enrollment at HighPoint Christian Academy

may be at risk. While on Probation-Academics, students may not be eligible to participate in events,

activities or privileges to all students.

PROBATIONARY – ATTENDANCE: Each quarter, attendance is reviewed. Once a student has earned 3

absences or tardies they will receive an attendance letter alerting of the absences. If additional absences

continue another letter will be sent requiring a doctor’s note required for all future absences to be

excused. Should the student continue to accumulate more absences thereafter, the student may be

placed on Probation -Attendance for the remainder of the school year. Students on Probation –

Attendance may not be eligible to participate in events, activities or privileges to all students.

PROBATIONARY- COMMUNITY SERVICE: Each quarter, community service is reviewed. Students who

did not meet the required community service hours ‘checkpoints’ will be placed on Probation-

Community Service for one semester. Checkpoints are at the end of each semester. Any student not

earning their community service hours is at risk of not being invited to return to HighPoint Christian

Academy the following year. While on Probation-Community Service, students may not be eligible to

participate in events, activities or privileges to all students.

Community Service Checkpoints

End of Quarter 1 7 hours

End of Quarter 2 14 hours

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End of Quarter 3 21 hours

June 30, 2019 (unless you are a Senior!) 25 hours

PROBATIONARY-ENROLLMENT: Students admitted or returning to HighPoint Christian Academy may be

done on a “Probationary Enrollment” status lasting one academic semester. Under such an

arrangement, the student or family, has specific factor(s) they are working towards whether it is

academics, attendance, behavior, financial or community service. At the end of the probationary period,

the student will either be released from probation and remain enrolled at HighPoint Christian Academy

(or) ineligible to remain enrolled for the upcoming semester.

PROMOTION TO NEXT GRADE LEVEL: *(NEW)

Middle/Junior High School: Passing grade in: Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies

High School: Earning full course credit in: Reading, Math, Science, Social Sciences (if enrolled that year)

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION *(NEW)

Yes, we are called to love one another and have wholesome friendships. Healthy, respectful male-female

relationships at HighPoint Christian Academy are encouraged. However, we ask that students refrain from public

displays of affection including, but not limited to, holding hands, pinky finger holding, sitting on laps,

leaning/resting on one another (shoulder to knee), kissing, and other forms of affection deemed inappropriate

by administration while on campus or off-campus when representing HighPoint Christian Academy.

REFUND POLICY *(NEW)

HighPoint Christian Academy will refund any tuition not incurred or any payments made towards a

fieldtrip/event that is cancelled by the school.

REPORT CARDS & INTERIMS *(NEW)

Students and parents have the ability, and are encouraged, to monitor grades at any time during the school

year. All report cards and interims are online and located through GradeLink. Parents who are delinquent on

tuition will be locked out of GradeLink. Parent-teacher conferences can be scheduled directly with individal

teachers as needed.

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RESTROOMS

Student restrooms are located on the 1st floor, convenient to classrooms. Since there is no break between

classes, teachers will give students time at the beginning and/or end of class to use the restroom. It is the

responsibility of each student for the upkeep of their restroom facilities and may on occasion be called upon to

do a quick clean up and empty the trash bins. Students must have a hall pass to use the restroom.

RETENTION *(NEW)

While it is our desire for every student to be successful, we believe that in certain cases retention is a necessary

and appropriate educational choice for a student. The Head of School will meet with the family, if this is the

case.

STUDENT SCHEDULES

Students will receive their daily schedule at orientation before the first day of school. Most classes count as one

credit for high school students. Two .5 credit classes, taught on a semester basis, may substitute for one of the

classes. High school students earn a minimum of 6 credits per year with the opportunity to earn extra credits

through independent study, virtual classes, or dual enrollment outside regularly scheduled school hours.

SCHOOL CLOSURE *(NEW)

HighPoint Christian Academy will determine to close or evacuate our school, independent of Clay County School

District, based upon the safety and needs of our families, employees and the property. We will only resume

classes when it has been determined to be safe for our location. This may be at a different time than the public

schools. Please check your email, Remind app, listen to your local TV/radio stations, or call the school at (904)

272-7949 for such information.

SEARCH & SEIZURE

All items brought onto campus (such as book bags, purses, pockets, notebooks, are subject to search by school

officials. This includes vehicles driven to school. Items that are deemed inappropriate, offensive, or illegal may

be confiscated. Return of these items will be made at the discretion of the administration. If such items are

found in a vehicle driven to school by a student, that student may lose the privilege of driving to school.

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SEMESTER EXAMS *(NEW)

All courses at HighPoint Christian Academy are subject to Semester Exams which are cumulative of

work covered during the semester. Semester exams are weighted greater than all other assignments

and assessments of the semester. See course syllabus for semester exam weight. Semester exams are

noted on the academic school year calendar.

SMOKING/TOBACCO *(NEW)

Parents, teachers, visitors, and students are not permitted to smoke, or use smokeless tobacco, or use any

vaping products on school grounds or during school functions, even when are held off-campus.

SOCIAL MEDIA

HPCA partners with parents in spiritual and academic growth of the students. Recognizing that we can achieve

both through relationships with our students and families, we must balance our inter-changing role as teacher,

mentor, and accountability partner with integrity. Parents, students, and staff will not be using social media for

communication it is the responsibility of parents to monitor students’ social media account closely.

The school will not monitor the accounts and alert you to any posts that are inappropriate. We will ask that

most of the issues that arise from social media be resolved by the parents through preventive and monitoring

efforts. On occasion, as incidents occur the school may be pulled into a scenario that involves social media. At

such a time, we appreciate your cooperation and swift response.

Effective June 1, 2017, HPCA staff may not follow students in any form of social media.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT *(NEW)

A student representative from grades 6-12 will make up our Student Government (SG) panel under the

supervision of a staff sponsor. The purpose of our SG is to provide leadership opportunities for our

students as they work together to address student concerns related to the school. Working together as

one voice, they bring about student inspired change to HighPoint Christian Academy. Student

Government student representatives will be selected by staff each spring and serve for one year. Those

students wishing to run for office (President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer) must campaign

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for the position and an election will be held for the entire school. Criteria for all representatives

includes:

3.0 GPA

No discipline referrals

Teacher Recommendation

SUMMER READING *(NEW)

We’ve worked hard all year and we don’t want all those skills to be lost. Therefore, students will have a summer

reading assignment that will count towards their 1st quarter reading grade for the upcoming school year.

“Students who do not read or read infrequently during their summer vacation see their reading abilities

stagnate or decline” (U.S. Department of Education, 2011, https://blog.ed.gov/2011/08/ ) .

SUPPLIES *(NEW)

Students are expected to bring the proper supplies to class and to provide supplies needed for assigned projects.

The school store is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 – 8:30 a.m. for students to make purchases.

TELEPHONE *(NEW)

Telephones are for business use only.

We cannot guarantee that messages left by you, for your student will be delivered by the end of the day.

Therefore, we encourage that, all arrangements for transportation should be made before school.

STUDENT CELL PHONES: We encourage leaving cell phones at home.

o Students must have their cell phones turned off and stowed in a designated area which is

determined by HPCA administrators and use a ticket exchange system.

o Cell phones may not be on their person during school hours or in the belongings.

If a student is found with their cell phone on their person or caught using their cell

phone without prior approval, they will receive a written referral.

TESTING/ASSESSMENT

Standardized testing is required for our accreditation. A nationally recognized standardized test is given to

students 2 times a year to measure their academic growth throughout the year. Assessments are typically

conducted in the fall as a baseline and late spring to measure overall growth for the year.

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Students are assessed on their grade level, to gain a more realistic understanding of their functioning level

compared to national norms. Results are kept on file and made part of each student’s permanent record. Copies

are made available to parents after each assessment window closes.

In the classrooms, teachers will regularly assess students through pop quizzes, announced quizzes vocabulary

quizzes, spelling tests and chapter/unit tests. Other means of assessment (oral quizzes, open book tests,

projects, written & oral reports, teacher observation) will also be used. Both Interim Progress Reports and

Report Cards are available online through www.Gradelink.com.

TEXTBOOK SELECTION

HPCA uses a variety of Christian curriculum and other nationally recognized curriculum for all grade levels and

supplemental materials such as the Dave Ramsey Personal Finance Curriculum. In addition, we utilize some

virtual courses and dual enrollment coursework at St. John’s River State College. (These are sometimes offered

at an additional cost). We take great care in the selection of textbooks and books assigned for reading.

It is not the aim of HPCA to isolate our students from materialism, violence, racial intolerance, war, hatred, etc.,

but rather to confront these issues within the truth of the Biblical perspective.

TRANSCRIPTS/RECORDS

Graduates’ transcripts will be sent out free of charge for the first request, each additional is at a cost of $5.

Transcripts will NOT be released if there is an outstanding balance on the student’s account.

TUITION*(NEW)

HighPoint Christian Academy offers a 0% financing program to our families that permits 10 monthly payments

beginning in September and ending in June for current students. All payments are due the 1st of the month.

Payments received after the 15th are subject to a $35.00 late fee.

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TUITION SCHEDULE2018-2019

Non-refundable Fees: Fees are paid in advance and are not combined with tuition payments.

Admission Processing Fee $200Testing Fee $200Instructional Materials (Returning Students)

$175

Instructional Materials (New Students) $350

**Before/After School clubs reserve the option to charge fees to cover operational costs.

College Preparatory TuitionTuition is offered interest-free monthly payments.

There is a $35.00 late fee for payments made after the 15th of the month.GRADE TUITION PAYMENT

6th $6000 10 months @ $600 per month

7th -8th $6500 10 months @ $650 per month

9th – 12th $7500 10 months @ $750 per month

*Graduation Fee (non-refundable)

$250

Annual Tuition Discounts (maximum of 2 discounts applied)

Active member of HighPoint Community Church

$175

Active Military $175

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First Responder $175Sibling (Taken from student in 2nd highest grade enrolled)

$175

VISITORS

Visitors are at the discretion of the Head of School. If the visit will be a disruption to the learning

environment, as deemed by the Head of school, the visitor may be redirected to an alternate time to

visit with staff/students.

All visitors must sign in at the school office upon arrival and check out from the office upon departure.

Visitors must present a valid form of picture identification to the school office for verification.

Visitor badge must be worn always.

No pets are permitted.

WITHDRAWALS *(NEW)

Students attending one day of any 9-week grading period will owe the full grading quarter’s tuition. No school

records will be released for any student when there is a balance owed on the student’s account.

Arrangements for a student withdrawal begin when the legal guardian enters the Academy office, a minimum of

24-hours of intended date of withdraw and completes the necessary paperwork to withdraw the student. This

process allows for an accurate return of textbooks, financial account checks, and for teachers to report final

grades.

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