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Berean Baptist Academy
Elementary Handbook (K5 - 5th Grade)
518 Glensford Drive
Fayetteville, NC 28314 910.868.2511 Fax: 910.868.1550
www.bbafnc.org
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Contents Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 6
Letter of Welcome from the Pastor and Head of Governors ................................................................... 6
Letter from the Head of School ................................................................................................................ 7
Letter from the Lower School Principal .................................................................................................... 8
History of Berean Baptist Academy .............................................................................................................. 9
Statement of Faith ........................................................................................................................................ 9
Purpose ......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Philosophy ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
Leadership ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
Pastor ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
School Advisory Board ............................................................................................................................ 10
Head of School ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Principals ................................................................................................................................................. 11
Director of School Advancement ............................................................................................................ 13
Director of Athletics ................................................................................................................................ 14
Business Office Manager ........................................................................................................................ 15
Director of College Guidance .................................................................................................................. 15
Administrative Staff ................................................................................................................................ 16
Servant Leadership ..................................................................................................................................... 17
Affiliation and Accreditation ....................................................................................................................... 18
Affiliation ................................................................................................................................................. 18
Accreditation ........................................................................................................................................... 18
Policy Amendment ...................................................................................................................................... 18
Admissions .................................................................................................................................................. 18
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Requirements ........................................................................................................................................ 18
Admission Guidelines ............................................................................................................................ 18
Non-Discrimination Policy ................................................................................................................... 19
Communicable Diseases ....................................................................................................................... 19
Procedures for Admission .................................................................................................................... 19
Reapplication Procedures ..................................................................................................................... 19
Transfer Students .................................................................................................................................. 20
Withdrawing Students .......................................................................................................................... 20
Enrolling in Other Schools ................................................................................................................ 20
Finances ...................................................................................................................................................... 21
Application Fee ....................................................................................................................................... 21
New Student Registration Fee ................................................................................................................ 21
Tuition Fees ............................................................................................................................................. 21
Book and Resource Fees ......................................................................................................................... 21
Extended Care Fees ................................................................................................................................. 21
Miscellaneous Fees ................................................................................................................................. 21
Delinquent Payments .............................................................................................................................. 22
Available Discounts ................................................................................................................................. 22
Tithing Discount ...................................................................................................................................... 22
Fundraising .............................................................................................................................................. 22
Academics ................................................................................................................................................... 23
Course Scope and Sequence ................................................................................................................... 23
Achievement Testing .............................................................................................................................. 23
Curriculum ............................................................................................................................................... 23
Deficiency Notices ................................................................................................................................... 23
Homework............................................................................................................................................... 23
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Music ....................................................................................................................................................... 23
Packets .................................................................................................................................................... 24
Penalties for Late Assignments ............................................................................................................... 24
Report Cards ........................................................................................................................................... 24
Summer School ....................................................................................................................................... 24
Conduct and Discipline ............................................................................................................................... 24
Proper Speech/Language ........................................................................................................................ 25
Courtesy .................................................................................................................................................. 25
Classroom Behavior ................................................................................................................................ 25
Physical Contact ...................................................................................................................................... 25
Corrective Discipline for K5-5th Grade .................................................................................................... 25
Corporal Punishment for K5-5th Grade ................................................................................................... 25
Dress and Appearance ................................................................................................................................ 26
All Students ............................................................................................................................................. 26
Boys ......................................................................................................................................................... 26
Girls ......................................................................................................................................................... 27
Financial Policies ......................................................................................................................................... 27
Application .............................................................................................................................................. 27
Books ....................................................................................................................................................... 27
Tuition ..................................................................................................................................................... 27
Discounts (Excluding children in K3-K4) .................................................................................................. 27
Delinquent Payments .............................................................................................................................. 27
Extended Care ......................................................................................................................................... 28
Fund Raising ............................................................................................................................................ 28
Other Fees ............................................................................................................................................... 28
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Returned Checks ..................................................................................................................................... 28
Uniform Fees ........................................................................................................................................... 28
Withdrawal Policy and Procedures ......................................................................................................... 28
Expelled Students .................................................................................................................................... 29
General Policies and Information ............................................................................................................... 29
Asbestos .................................................................................................................................................. 29
Attendance .............................................................................................................................................. 29
Awards .................................................................................................................................................... 30
Birthdays ................................................................................................................................................. 30
Book Covers ............................................................................................................................................ 30
Change of Address or Phone Number .................................................................................................... 30
Check-In and Check-Out Procedures ...................................................................................................... 30
Electronic Devices ................................................................................................................................... 30
School Dismissal or Delays ...................................................................................................................... 31
Enrollment at Other Schools ................................................................................................................... 31
Secular Movies, DVDs, and TV ................................................................................................................ 31
Illness at School ....................................................................................................................................... 31
Insurance ................................................................................................................................................. 31
Lost and Found ........................................................................................................................................ 32
Lunches ................................................................................................................................................... 32
Medical Requirements ............................................................................................................................ 32
Messages to Students ............................................................................................................................. 32
Parent-Teacher Conferences .................................................................................................................. 32
Personal Belongings ................................................................................................................................ 32
Phone Use ............................................................................................................................................... 32
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Religious Views ....................................................................................................................................... 33
School Hours ........................................................................................................................................... 33
Elementary Students ............................................................................................................................... 33
Special Meetings ..................................................................................................................................... 33
Sports ...................................................................................................................................................... 33
Transportation ........................................................................................................................................ 33
Toys ......................................................................................................................................................... 33
Visitors .................................................................................................................................................... 33
Volunteers ............................................................................................................................................... 34
Parent, Student, and Teacher Communication .......................................................................................... 34
RenWeb ................................................................................................................................................... 34
Parent Teacher Conferences ................................................................................................................... 34
Teacher Email .......................................................................................................................................... 34
Conflict Resolution Procedures ............................................................................................................... 34
Online Teacher Evaluations .................................................................................................................... 35
Parent Teacher Organization ...................................................................................................................... 35
Board Members and Purpose ................................................................................................................. 35
Parent Volunteers ................................................................................................................................... 35
Special Meetings ..................................................................................................................................... 35
Parent Orientation .............................................................................................................................. 35
All Other Programs .............................................................................................................................. 35
General Program Schedule ................................................................................................................. 35
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Introduction
Letter of Welcome from the Pastor and Head of Governors Dear Parents,
As the pastor of Berean Baptist Church, I want to thank you for allowing
us the privilege to minister to your child. The goal of our Academy is to prepare
our students intellectually and spiritually. We desire that our students will be
successful in the colleges and careers that they choose. We also desire that they
find success, as the Bible defines it, in their service of King Jesus.
Our priority is to provide an environment where your child can receive
an excellent education from a Biblical worldview. We make every effort to equip
our students with all that they need to do the will of God, by the grace of God, to
the glory of God.
It is imperative that every student who attends our Junior High or Senior High also faithfully attends our
church or one of like faith. It is a privilege to attend BBA, and students who refuse to embrace the
standards, values, and beliefs we hold to be true - will not be permitted to return.
The Bible states, “…a threefold cord is not easily broken.” When a home, church, and Christian
school are unified in their desire to “train up a child in the way he should go,” that child will be well
prepared for a future committed to glorifying God. We believe that the final years of high school are
critical and still formative; therefore, it is imperative that our students’ parents fully support the
objective of the church and school.
Regardless of whether or not you are a member of this church, I am available to you as a pastor
and want you to know that I think of everyone in the Academy as a part of our family. You are always
welcome to any worship service, Bible study, or special activity.
Proclaiming Christ,
Sean E. Harris
Pastor
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Letter from the Head of School Dear Parents,
Thank you for considering Berean Baptist Academy. BBA exists to
provide an excellent education firmly grounded in a Biblical Worldview that
challenges students to “Recognize” God in all academic pursuits, to
“Understand” the truths He reveals through learning, and to “Apply” those
lessons to their individual life. Our educational programs prepare students for
college, careers, and Christian living.
Your choice of Christian education is one of great importance. By your
choice alone, we understand that you desire the best for your student spiritually,
academically, and socially. The faculty and I realize there were many educational
opportunities in our community. We do not take your trust in us lightly. We dedicate ourselves to our
partnership and will always strive to create an environment that promotes learning spiritually,
academically, and socially. Dedicated to Pastor Sean’s “Threefold Cord Vision,” it is our desire to form a
partnership, which sees your student’s intellectual success and their lifelong dedication to Christ. Do
not hesitate to contact the faculty or me with questions or concerns. Only together can we achieve our
goals of college, career, and Christ-centered living.
I look forward to an exciting year of growth. God bless you as we learn and grow together in
Christ. Thank you again for your trust in Berean Baptist Academy.
Serving Christ through Education,
Jack Farmer
Head of School
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Letter from the Lower School Principal Dear Parents,
As the Lower School Principal, I have oversight responsibility of the
preschool and want to thank you for giving us the opportunity to be the first to
educate and train your child outside of the home.
We are delighted to have your child attending Berean Baptist Preschool
(BBA). The primary objective and purpose of Berean Baptist Preschool is to
provide a safe Christian environment where little boys and girls can begin to
prepare for Kindergarten. The teachers of BBA realize their solemn
responsibility before God in molding the life and character of each of their
students to give a good foundation for each child’s future.
The entire preschool team is absolutely committed to giving your student an outstanding
education. We will utilize all available time and resources to daily give your student a quality learning
experience.
The preschool strives to balance the fact that our students are still children and can learn but
also need to have fun. We use the A Beka curriculum to begin teaching our preschoolers how to read
and write and prepare for math. Everyday a fun interactive Bible lesson will be taught to begin
introducing your children to the awesomeness of God and His Son Jesus and the wonders of the Bible.
Thank you for the opportunity to minister to your children. Berean Baptist Academy thanks you
for your love and support. Continue to pray for us as we partner with you in training your treasure.
Teach…Jesus Christ,
Vonda K. Chapman
Lower School Principal
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History of Berean Baptist Academy
Steven Byrd, the former pastor of Berean Baptist Church, founded Berean Baptist Academy in
1975. The academy started with 38 students in limited facilities. Presently, Berean Baptist Academy
operates in the following three locations on the BBC campus: a stand-alone pre-school, an elementary
and middle school building, and modular classrooms for the high school. The academy has two
playgrounds, a multisport gym, and a multisport athletic field. The Academy maintains an enrollment of
approximately 400 students annually. In January of 2016, Berean Baptist Academy broke ground on a
new elementary building with a projected completion date of January 2017.
Statement of Faith
Berean Baptist Academy, as a ministry of Berean Baptist Church, believes and teaches the
doctrines of the Christian faith as embraced by the historic, Biblical, Baptist position.
We believe in the verbal inspiration and authority of the Scriptures. We believe the Bible reveals
God, the fall of man, the way of salvation, and God’s plan and purpose in the ages. We believe in the
Deity and virgin birth of Jesus Christ. We believe that God justifies by faith alone, and accounts
righteousness by the merit of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ’s substitutionary atonement. We believe
that salvation is “by grace” plus nothing and minus nothing. The conditions to salvation are repentance
and faith. We believe in the visible, personal, and pre-millennial return of Jesus. We believe in the
everlasting conscious punishment of the lost.
Berean Baptist Academy believes in the verbal, plenary inspiration of the Bible. The English
Standard Version is the official translation for the academy. However, Berean Baptist Academy will
honor any family who chooses to use the King James Bible as their preferred English translation.
Purpose
The goal of BBA is to produce growing disciples of Jesus Christ, who recognize God’s presence in
every aspect of life, are academically prepared for life after high school, are capable of discerning
godliness, and desire to serve Christ by serving others with their life.
Philosophy
The school is an extension of the Christian home and church, not a replacement for them. It is
important that children mature in a Christian home, faithfully attend a Bible-believing church, and
receive a Christian education. As such, Berean Baptist Academy operates in conjunction with the home
and church. Therefore, we require regular church attendance for the student and his family, which will
better prepare the student to excel in the academic setting.
Leadership
Pastor The pastor of Berean Baptist Church is the head of all ministries to include the academy, as a
ministry extension. He operates as the Chairman of the School Advisory Board. He is responsible for
ensuring that the School Advisory Board operates within their designated role as an advisory board and
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as the direct line supervisor for the Head of School. It is Pastor’s responsibility to cast the vision for the
academy and to approve the school’s mission and philosophy of operations.
School Advisory Board The role of our School Advisory Board is to safeguard the vision and mission of the school. The
Board provides the Pastor and the Head of School advice on the goals set for the school, and on the daily
operations of the school. The board is not responsible for the decisions that affect daily operation.
Head of School The Head of School is a direct employee of the Pastor of Berean Baptist Church. He shall be the
representative of the Pastor in relations with the faculty, staff, students and the patrons of the
Academy. The Head of School is directly responsible for the daily operations of the academy. The Head
of School shall select and hire appropriately qualified persons to serve as members of the faculty and
administration. The Head of School shall have direct supervision of the faculty and staff and shall
coordinate the activities of the entire organization. The Head of School shall hold regular meetings of
the faculty and staff and see that the general policies of the Pastor are understood and followed.
General duties of the Head of School include (but are not restricted to) the following:
• To embody, manifest, and advocate the mission of the school.
• To articulate the vision for the school and its future.
• To monitor and address all matters of school climate and culture.
• To manage the sometimes competing demands of the various constituencies of the school.
• To provide to the Pastor of Berean Baptist Church different scenarios and possibilities for the
board to consider as it does its work focusing on the future of the school.
• To work with the Pastor of Berean Baptist Church, its chair, and its committees in carrying
out established school policies; to review those policies and make recommendations for
changes; to attend meetings, prepare reports, maintain board records, and keep trustees
informed on all aspects of the school’s operation.
• To supervise all programs of the school (academic, athletic, ethical, and other extracurricular
programs); to monitor curriculum, grading, testing, and reporting to parents; to prepare for
and conduct periodic program evaluations; to submit reports to external agencies as
required; to establish disciplinary policies and standards of conduct.
• To supervise the business manager in the preparation of preliminary and final budgets; to
monitor income, expenditures, collections, and cash flow; to maintain appropriate financial
records; to oversee the employee benefits program.
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• To supervise the admissions director in determining programs for the recruitment of
students, including marketing and outreach, information dissemination, applicant testing
and interviews and acceptance and decisions.
• To represent the school to all of its constituents including neighborhood, parents, students,
alumni, business community, faculty, and staff.
• To supervise the development director and development efforts to cultivate and effect
generous support of the school.
• To handle all matters regarding employment, retention, and dismissal of personnel; salaries
and contracts; job assignments and performance evaluation; and orientation and training.
• To prepare employee handbooks, and maintain appropriate personnel records.
• To represent the school in its relations with state and federal agencies and with local, state,
regional, and national educational organizations and accrediting agencies.
• To supervise the college counselor in planning for an appropriate program for college
guidance and college admissions.
• To act as liaison with the other organizations to ensure fulfillment of the school's contractual
obligations; to coordinate schedules, arrange for rentals, and coordinate procedures where
the interests of both groups are involved.
• To supervise and/or assist with all other aspects of the school’s operation, including (but not
limited to) facilities maintenance and operation, food service, transportation, summer
programs, development and fund raising, and alumni affairs.
• To oversee school transportation, including transportation routes, schedules and contracts
and to assess the performance of the transportation companies.
• To oversee and coordinate the work of the secretarial staff and support staff.
Principals The lower and upper school principals report to the Head of School. Each principal is charged with
the comprehensive responsibility for all activities involving students and faculty in their respective
divisions (pre-school, elementary school, middle school, high school). Their specific responsibilities
include the following:
To maintain congruency between the school’s approved mission statement and all activities of that division.
To act as the educational leader of the school division, responsible for its day-to-day operation; to direct the activities of the faculty and, in conjunction with the business manager, the business staff in the performance of their duties.
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To function as the chief articulator of that division’s programs, expectations, behavioral guidelines, and other information necessary to ensure that all constituencies are fully informed consistent with their individual roles.
To observe, supervise, and help evaluate the faculty in the development and implementation of curriculum; to supervise the teaching process, and to review and evaluate the academic programs.
To lead the Academic Policies/Curriculum Committee in the articulation of the school mission, school goals, department goals, course objectives, materials, methods and means of assessment.
To provide an orderly, controlled environment in which learning can take place, a school climate which is supportive and which reflects high morale.
To be aware of the educational, physical, social, and psychological needs of the members of our school community and to develop plans for meeting these needs. •
To oversee and direct the activities of the department chairs, the sponsors of various student organizations and activities, and faculty committees.
To ensure compliance with legal requirements of government regulations and agencies; to maintain the educational standards established by the State of North Carolina and by those agencies that examine and accredit the school.
To make recommendations to the Head of School regarding the hiring and retention, and the assignment of faculty;
To establish programs for the orientation of new teachers, for in-service training of all teachers, and for the evaluation of classroom teachers, to ensure that teachers are familiar with and adhere to school policies in all areas of the school operation.
To strive for unity, harmony, and cooperation through tact, helpfulness, respect, and a recognition of individual differences and the special abilities and strengths of each teacher.
To conduct regular meetings with faculty which will deal both with routine school matters and with the stimulating exchange of ideas on issues of educational/philosophical interest and concern.
To oversee the coordination of the co-curricular and extra-curricular activity programs of the school; to assist in the planning and the presentation of school assemblies and programs; to assist in maintaining a comprehensive calendar of school events; to keep the entire school community informed of various school programs and activities.
To provide for the academic guidance of students; to maintain complete academic records on all students; to oversee the grading and the reporting of standards and methods used by teachers in measuring student achievement.
To be responsible for establishing guidelines for proper student conduct and dress; to maintain student discipline consonant with school policies; to monitor students’ adherence to established school rules; to maintain accurate records of student attendance and citizenship.
To be a visible presence in all areas of the school; to work toward a resolution of all problems - both routine and unique - as they arise; to keep the Head of School informed of the general programs, activities, and problems of the school.
To prepare a master school class schedule and to assign teachers and students to classes and other obligations.
To serve as a consultant to teachers in matters of classroom management, teaching methods, and general school procedures.
To assist in the admission process for the testing, interviewing, and evaluating of applicants for enrollment.
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To perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.
To support the school and its leadership.
Director of School Advancement
The director of school advancement reports to the Head of School. Responsibilities include the following:
To develop a wide variety of ways to communicate with all alumni, including via the Internet.
To plan, organize and implement receptions and reunions.
To research and profile the background of all alumni.
To create and oversee the school archives.
To plan and execute programs that enhances public perception of the school.
To initiate and lead activities intended to interest parents in sending students to independent schools: press releases on events, and day to day contact with the news media.
To identify emerging marketing strategies, test their effectiveness, and report on their results.
To oversee the program of admissions of new students to the school.
To present the school to prospective students and parents, which includes systematic and efficient handling of applications and communication with candidates and their parents; interview with candidate and their parents; arrangements for admissions testing; securing of necessary student credentials; and communicating final decisions to the appropriate individuals.
To evaluate continually and redesign where appropriate all aspects of the admissions and marketing program with the goal of maintaining a capacity enrollment of qualified students and a wait-list of qualified applicants which consist of at least 10% of the maximum class size for each grade.
To manage the re-enrollment of current students for the succeeding year.
To oversee the network of parents, former parents and alumni to assist in the admissions program.
To keep relevant statistics on all aspects of the admission and re-enrollment program.
To represent the school at various gatherings and conferences.
To devise and manage a program designed to attract the maximum gift support possible to the institution. This program will include annual fund solicitation; planned giving programs; corporate and foundation proposals; and planning for major capital gifts.
To keep the Head of School informed on a weekly basis of the fund-raising activities of this office.
To develop a plan to increase alumni and parental support of, and involvement in, the institution.
To develop and lead a volunteer staff to carry out the activities of this office.
To provide strategic leadership in the area of international students.
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To support and manage the activities of host parent, student, and faculty/staff groups whose purposes and goals are related to international students.
To act as a resource on international students issues for faculty and staff in their work with students and in their development of curriculum and programs.
To act as a liaison between the school and the various exchange programs in support of the school’s continued effort to serve these communities better and to support the school’s outreach and admissions marketing and recruitment programs.
To perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.
To support the school and its leadership.
Director of Athletics
The director of athletics is responsible to the Head of School. His responsibilities include the following:
To lead by activity and example, to develop, organize, supervise and evaluate the entire program of intramural and interscholastic athletics for the entire school.
To ensure that all coaches are performing their duties at the very highest level of professionalism.
To ensure that all coaching positions are filled with competent coaches who are properly trained in all organizational and philosophical aspects of the athletic program. In this connection he or she will participate with the Head of School and the administrative team in employment decisions and faculty assignments.
To ensure the proper maintenance and security of all athletic equipment and athletic facilities, fields and courts, working in coordination with the director of buildings and grounds.
To organize (and submit to the director of marketing) regular information of the various programs for public recognitions of athletic achievements.
To prepare, submit, and administer a budget each year to fund the athletic programs of the school.
To provide the scheduling of all athletic contests, arrange for athletic transportation, and hire all game officials.
To represent the school at various state, regional athletic associations.
To maintain records of team and individual athletic accomplishments and submit copies of same to the development office for historical purposes.
To maintain and revise the coaches’ manual each year and set up appropriate meetings with the coaches to review the information and standards in detail.
To help to organize and coordinate, with the principals of the divisions, the off-campus athletic programs.
To oversee the distributions, collection, cleaning, repair, and storage of all athletic uniforms and equipment.
To ensure the health and safety of all students in the athletic program, and to be responsible for it.
To perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.
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To support the school and its leadership.
Business Office Manager The Business Office Manager reports to the Head of School. Responsibilities include the following:
To work with Berean Baptist Church executive pastor and staff, to keep an accurate continuous record of the cash and financial position of the school and manage the financial operation of the school so that the institution remains financially stable.
To prepare a monthly operating statement for the Head of School and the Pastor of Berean Baptist Church.
To provide a monthly report of expenditures for use of each individual budget center within the school.
To establish a plan and schedule for the preparation of the annual budget that will permit the setting of the succeeding year’s tuition at a School Advisory Board meeting early in the calendar year.
To oversee all school purchasing, financial investments, banking activities, payroll and benefits program.
To provide staff support, in conjunction with the Head of School, and the Pastor of Berean Baptist Church.
To manage risk at the school to ensure the safety of personnel and students in their use of the facilities and to maintain appropriate levels of insurance to protect the property and to cover the liability of the school.
To ensure the effective management of the bookstore and the food-service operation and any other auxiliary enterprises of the school.
To assist the Head of School with decisions regarding salaries and benefits for all personnel, including the evaluation of support staff.
To represent the school at various regional, state, and national associations relative to the role of being the business manager.
To oversee processing of all gift income for the purpose of providing receipts and the maintaining of giving records of donors to the school.
To perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.
To support the school and its leadership.
Director of College Guidance The director of college counseling reports to the high school principal and serves as a liaison to the
student body. Responsibilities include the following:
To assume responsibility for counseling students in grades 9 through 12 (and their parents) in regard to the entire college selection, application and admission procedures.
To coordinate the program and calendar of all standardized testing for students including scheduling test dates, registering students, arranging for special “prep” sessions, administering the tests, and providing pre- and post-test counseling.
To oversee the various student award programs and ceremonies.
To help the registrar keep accurate permanent records of students’ testing and academic work.
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To develop the extensive summary reports on students’ progress on standardized testing to the school community as appropriate.
To conduct individual and group sessions in all areas of college counseling.
To write the school recommendation by the end of the junior year of upcoming seniors making application to college.
To oversee the faculty writing of the requested recommendations for students applying to college.
To maintain and expand an attractive, informative and up-to-date College Counseling Center.
To oversee visits to colleges and from college representatives.
To represent the school at relevant state and national conferences and workshops.
To perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.
To support the school and its leadership.
Administrative Staff Pastor of Berean Baptist Church: Pastor Sean Harris
Members of the School Advisory Board: Pastor Sean Harris
Dr. Steven Wilson
Joan Dayton
Jack Farmer
Angela Hylland
Brian Kiser
Florence McEachern
Mark Smith
Nate Torberson
Head of School: Jack Farmer
Administrative Assistant to the Head of School: Mary Stubbs
Principals: Jack Farmer (Upper School)
Vonda Chapman (Lower School)
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Deans: Jeff Woosley (MS Discipine)
Directors: Sandra Adams (Pre-School)
Don Adams (School Advancement)
Jeff Woosley (Athletics)
Business Office: Tamie Joiner (Finance)
Mary Stubbs (Upper School Records)
Briana Meyers (Lower School Records)
Linda Plain (Receptionist)
Faculty Leadership Jamie Stiles (College Advisor)
Robbie May (Student Government)
Sejung Ra (Upper School Fine Arts)
Debi Smith (Lower School Fine Arts)
Alicia Meads (Summer Day Camp)
Servant Leadership
BBA is dedicated to training servant-leaders for the Kingdom of God at the academy. Therefore,
we are just as committed to character development as intellectual learning—we believe both are
essential parts of God’s sanctifying work in the life of a disciple of Christ. For our example, the Lord
Jesus modeled the ultimate servant leadership when He washed the feet of the disciples. Moreover, He
modeled for us the truth that leaders lead by serving others (Mark 10:44). Students at the Academy will
be expected to serve in numerous ways. These acts of service are all designed to teach them the
importance of living to help others and the importance of a solid work ethic. Students will be expected
to help with a variety of age-appropriate, safe tasks to enhance and support the school. The tasks could
involve the setup and takedown of chairs, tables, and other things as needed. Tasks might include
helping other students with a newly taught concept or supporting teachers as aides. Students could also
be asked to vacuum, wipe down boards, desks, tables, or take out the trash. Other tasks may include
making copies, organizing bookshelves, answering the phone, filing documents, or working in the office.
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All of these tasks are similar to the chores children would be expected to do in their homes. Parents
who object to their children being in an atmosphere that stresses the biblical philosophy of servant-
leadership ideas may wish to consider another school. We believe that learning to do these tasks to the
glory of God is an essential part of the students’ character development and better prepares them for
what God has for them in the future. This volunteer work also helps reduce the cost of operating the
school and helps keeps tuition at a minimum.
Affiliation and Accreditation
Affiliation Berean Baptist Academy is registered and recognized by the North Carolina Department of Non-
Public Education (NCDNPE) and is authorized to issue high school diplomas by the State of North
Carolina. BBA is also a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), North
Carolina Christian Schools Association (NCCSA), and the American Association of Christian Schools
(AACS).
Accreditation Berean Baptist Academy is a pursuing accreditation with the Association of Christian Schools
International (ACSI).
Policy Amendment
These discipline guidelines may be amended during the year if the administration deems it necessary.
The BBA learning community will be notified of any changes with an effective date of when the policy
adjustment will take effect.
Admissions
Requirements In the elementary school, we adhere to an open enrollment policy; however, it is a privilege to
attend the elementary school. BBA makes no distinction in the admission of students based on race,
gender, nationality, or ethnic origin. As a private, Christian elementary school admission and attendance
at the Academy is a privilege rather than a right. This privilege may be forfeited should a student or his
parent(s) or guardian(s) fail to fully cooperate with school leadership decisions. Students and their
parent(s)/guardian(s) will be re-evaluated at the conclusion of each school year to determine their
eligibility for re-enrollment. Students may be dismissed at the discretion of school leadership should
they or a parent/guardian fail to cooperate with school decisions.
Admission Guidelines Students enrolling in our K3 program must be 3 years old and completely toilet-trained. Students enrolling in our K4 program will have to be 4 years old by August 31. Berean Baptist Elementary school is not equipped to offer special education services for and will not admit students with severe learning disabilities, behavioral issues, or medical conditions.
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Non-Discrimination Policy As a religious entity, Berean Baptist Academy is legally permitted to make enrollment decisions
based upon religious criteria, including doctrinal and lifestyle issues. It is the policy of BBA to enroll
students who subscribe without reservation to BBA’s Statement of Faith and Standards of Conduct and
who are living out these doctrines and standards in all areas of their lives, both at and away from
ministry functions. BBA does not discriminate in enrollment on the basis of race, color, sex (as
determined at birth and not subject to change), national origin, age, or any other characteristic
protected by law.
Communicable Diseases While it is not the intent of Berean Baptist to discriminate against any child, a safe learning
environment must be provided for the students. This includes protecting them from exposure to
communicable disease. In the best interest of both the sick and the well child, it is the policy of the BBA
not to accept students who have been diagnosed as carrying a communicable or potentially lethal
disease. This policy includes, but is not limited to, diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea, tuberculosis, and
acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This applies also to students known to be infected with
HTLV-III/LAV and to students testing positive for the presence of antibodies to the AIDS virus.
Procedures for Admission Berean Baptist Academy utilizes an application packet, placement exams, record reviews,
interviews, and administrative review before offering an opportunity for enrollment. Potential students
can be denied enrollment at any point during the enrollment process. Each potential student must
complete these steps before receiving an admissions decision.
Complete the enrollment packet received during the campus tour
Provide an unofficial copy of all disciplinary, attendance, and academic records from the previous schools attended
Pay the non-refundable application fee of $100 (Required for returning students)
Schedule a baseline assessment
Conduct an interview with the appropriate principal
Complete financial check-in
Register for classes
Acceptance is provisional until receipt and verification of unofficial records with official records from the previous school
If there are concerns, the student may be contacted for a follow-up interview or dismissed from the academy
The student course schedule is determined by comparing the student’s records with graduation
requirements and current course offerings.
Reapplication Procedures Berean Baptist Academy reviews all students annually for enrollment. Student records, behavior,
church attendance, and parental support are all factors in determining re-enrollment. Students desiring
to re-enroll at Berean Baptist Academy must:
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Complete the re-enrollment application
Pay the non-refundable application fee to reserve potential student roster spot
Provide a current Pastoral Reference Form
Have no outstanding debt to the academy Accepted students will receive an acceptance letter via email. The high school principal will
schedule a conference with any student potentially being denied re-enrollment. Upon acceptance, the
student’s book and resource fees are due.
Transfer Students All potential transfer students follow the same admissions process as potential new students.
Withdrawing Students
Parents may withdraw a student for any reason with a seven (7) day notice. The school also has
the right, to ask students to withdraw, giving a seven (7) day notice. This provision is separate and apart
from suspension or expulsion under the school’s disciplinary policies. If a child is withdrawn from school
and receives any funds from the school, that child or the children in that child’s family will not be
readmitted to the school.
When a child is withdrawn from school, either by the parents or guardians, or at the request of
the school administration, the following policies shall govern that withdrawal:
REGISTRATION FEES obligate the school to hold a place in the school for the student. These fees are non-refundable and are charged each year for new and returning students. These fees cover the school’s costs for paperwork, staff interviews, and record updates and changes. This fee is non-refundable in full or part whether the student fails to complete enrollment or withdraws before the end of the year.
TUITION is charged on an annual basis. BBA will refund tuition only if a notice of withdrawal is given to the school in writing, signed by the parent or guardian, two weeks before the child is withdrawn. If a child is withdrawn by the request of the school, one week’s tuition will be charged and the remainder refunded.
TRANSCRIPTS will not be released until all books are returned and bills are paid.
THERE is a withdrawal fee. BBA reserves the right to make exceptions to this policy on an individual basis.
Enrolling in Other Schools
When BBA receives a request for student records between school years, the student is
withdrawn from the academy, even if they were enrolled for the upcoming school year. The first
request to transfer a student’s record is free; however, there is a fee for subsequent requests. Academy
graduates who request additional transcripts will be charged a fee. Please see the financial section or
financial sheet for a schedule of fees.
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Finances Application Fee The annual application fee is $100. Parents may desire to take advantage of the early application discount of $25 by completing their application with all necessary forms and making their application payment before March 1. This fee is non-refundable.
New Student Registration Fee There is a $150 new student fee that covers records processing, standardized tests, and financial payment setup. This fee is collected following student acceptance to the academy and is due upon acceptance.
Tuition Fees The elementary tuition of $4,200 covers the costs of all classes offered at the academy. This does not cover fees associated with Advanced Placement tests, Fayetteville Technical Community College’s High School Connections, or competition fees associated with some fine arts courses. Accounts must be paid in full by August 1 or enrolled in the FACTS payment system. Accounts paid in full by July 1, via cash or check, receive a 2% discount. FACTS begins billing August 5 or August 20 and will bill monthly for 10 months.
Book and Resource Fees High school students are assessed an annual book and resource fee that ensures their class roster spot. The annual fee is $450. Students who pay their resource fee between the February 1 and May 31 will receive a $150 discount ($300 total cost). Students who pay their resource fee between June 1 and July 31 will receive a $75 discount ($375 total cost). Beginning August 1, the full amount is due. If the book fee is not paid by the first day of school, the student enters withdrawn status and must reapply as a new student (if within one calendar year, the new student fee is waived). Advanced Placement courses require students to rent textbooks at an additional cost of $85 per course.
Extended Care Fees Families who desire to utilize the academy’s extended care program may pay $12 daily for the morning or afternoon care, or $15 daily for both. The charge is per student, or the family may elect to be billed annually, according to the following schedule:
$1,800 ($180 monthly) for 1 child
$2,400 ($240 monthly) for 2 children
$3,300 ($330 monthly) for 3 children Any student on campus after 3:15 PM or before 8:00 AM will be directed to extended care.
Miscellaneous Fees
Delinquent Payments: $50
Athletic Fees: $100 per sport
Returned Checks: $30
Senior Graduation: $150
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Detentions: $12 per day, $40 per Saturday
Lost Report Card: $5
Lost/Damaged Book: Replacement Cost
Transcripts: $5
Records Transfer: free first copy, $20 each additional copy
In School Suspension: $75
Withdrawal Fee: $500
Technology Confiscation Fee: $25
Individual meal: rates vary – highest cost (hot entrée and drink) is $5 per day (Subs and Salads are available)
Delinquent Payments Tuition accounts that are 30-days past due will be withdrawn from the Academy. Incidental
accounts that are past due will have their extended care service suspended until the account is brought current.
Available Discounts
Tuition: 15% second child, 30% third child, 50% each additional child
Tuition: 2% payment in full, if before July 1
Books: $25 before May 31
Reapplication: $25 before March 1
Referral/New-Family Fee: 20% off the lowest tuition for the first year of the new family, and 10% off if that family returns the second year.
Tithing Discount BBA families that tithe to Berean Baptist Church may receive a tuition discount, provided the
following conditions are met:
The discount is available to any BBA family who contributes to the General Fund of BBC. Contributions given for a specific project are not included.
10% of one’s giving from July 1 to June 30 of the next year will be applied to the tuition. No cash rebates will be given for any reason. This includes, but is not limited to PCS, mid-year moves, expulsion, or withdrawal. This discount is strictly for those who have children that are returning to BBA.
Discounts will not be given unless an individual has a written record of having given a minimum of $3,000 to the General Fund of BBC from July 1 to June 30 of the next year.
A maximum of $1,000 per child enrolled will be given to a family. Example: $3,000 of contributions equals a $300 discount.
Tithes given to another ministry do not qualify.
Fundraising Fundraisers are held to benefit the school and our families. The school receives no federal assistance, nor is it endowed or supported by any organization. Students and parents are asked not to solicit outside fundraising campaigns for the academy.
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Academics
Berean Baptist Academy has two academic tracks: the advanced college preparatory track and the college preparatory track. The advanced track requires students to take the UNC required courses to enter the University of North Carolina (UNC) system of colleges, and may qualify students for valedictorian and salutatorian honors. The college preparatory track qualifies students to enter colleges outside the UNC system. Both tracks meet state requirements for graduation.
Course Scope and Sequence The course and sequence for BBA meets or exceeds the North Carolina Department of Education requirements.
Achievement Testing Berean Baptist Academy administers several achievement tests to various grades throughout
the year. Currently, all grades, first and above, take the Iowa Test each spring. This test satisfies the
state standard for demonstrable progression. The results are made available in the students’ end of
year reports.
Curriculum The curriculum for all grades has been structured so that the students will receive training in all
academic subjects required by the state of North Carolina. Subjects are taught from a Biblical viewpoint. Social development is encouraged through the teaching of good manners, high moral standards, respect for parents and authority, and patriotism.
Deficiency Notices If a student is failing or near failing, a notice will be sent home half-way through each quarter.
Homework Homework will be regularly assigned in each grade level. Assignments are designed to reinforce
classroom instruction, to provide additional enrichment, or to allow students to make up work that is missed due to absence from school. Homework is the responsibility of the student; however, parents are encouraged to be actively involved in every aspect of their child’s education. In elementary school, a homework planner will go home each evening to keep the parents informed of schoolwork. This should be signed and returned the following school day. All other students are encouraged to use a student planner for all assignments.
Music A graded music program is offered from K5-5th grade. Fine arts, choir, small and large vocal
ensembles, handchimes ensemble and beginning band are available to qualified students. A nominal monthly fee is charged in addition to regular tuition fees. The cost to purchase or to rent an instrument is the responsibility of the parent. These classes are a full year commitment and may not be dropped.
Piano and voice lessons are offered by independent teachers through the school. Fees for piano lessons are payable directly to the teacher. Call the school for additional information.
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Packets A collection of the student’s papers from the previous week and a weekly packet note from the
school will be sent home every Wednesday. Please sign and return by Friday morning. Parents may send a note requesting further review time; however, these packets should be turned in on Monday morning.
Penalties for Late Assignments
For major assignments, projects and reports – 3 points off for I day late, 4 points off for 2 days late, 5 points off for 3 days late, 6 points off for 4 days late, 7 points off for 5 days late… We want to encourage someone who has planned poorly to still do their best to get the highest score possible – positive correction to encourage success.
For daily homework assignments – 10 points off for every day late.
FOR EACH OF THESE PRECEDING DIRECTIVES, PARENTS MUST BE CALLED ON 1ST DAY LATE AS AN ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THEM TO WORK WITH THEIR CHILD FOR THE MOST SUCCESS POSSIBLE.
Report Cards Report cards are issued every 9 weeks. The grading scale is based on the following:
BBA utilizes the following grading scale: 100 – 90 = A 89 – 80 = B 79 – 70 = C 69 – 60 = D 59 – 0 = F
An “I” indicates that a student is missing work in the subject and that the work has to be
completed before a grade will be given. Work not completed in accordance with the make-up schedule will be given a grade of “0.” The “0” will be averaged in with the student’s grades for that quarter.
Report cards should be signed by a parent and returned to the school within 2 school days. A note stating that a parent needs further time to review the report card is sufficient for an extension. Report cards that are lost, mutilated, or defaced will be replaced for a nominal fee.
Summer School K5-5th Grade: Summer school is required if a student fails 2 or more subjects in the year.
Summer school is also required if a student fails any of the following subjects in either semester: Reading/Phonics/English or Numbers/Math. A student who is required to attend summer school and does not attend is subject to retention.
Conduct and Discipline
The desire of the administration and faculty is to develop and nurture an atmosphere of discipline and enjoyment in the Academy. The Bible clearly states in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go…” Discipline is not simply punishment for wrong attitudes or actions; it is the Biblical, loving correction that leads to a change in thought and behavior. Discipline is administered in an
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effort to instill in students a personal accountability to God for their attitudes and actions. Open communication between the teacher and the home is vital. Questions concerning discipline should be directed to the classroom teacher first. If the situation warrants, the administration is willing to assist in any matter. The following list is not meant to be exhaustive and BBA has the right to make exceptions to this policy as we deem necessary. Such exception will be made on a one-to-one basis only.
Proper Speech/Language “In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness,
gravity, sincerity, Sound speech that cannot be condemned…” Titus 2:7-8a
We expect all of our students to abstain from: ● Using God’s name or a substitute for expressions of emotions. (Leviticus 20:7) ● Using profanity, vulgarity, or slang terms. (I Peter 2:1) ● Using unkind, offensive, or hurtful words. (Ephesians 4:29) ● Mocking sins that God condemns. (Proverbs 14:9)
Courtesy Christians are supposed to treat everyone with the proper respect and are to show deference to
those in authority. Such conduct as talking-back, sarcasm, complaining, griping and gossiping will not be tolerated.
Classroom Behavior Students are to abide by the rules of their classroom. Cheating and stealing are not tolerated.
Physical Contact
No student shall intentionally engage in physical contact of any kind with any student unless directed to by a School Official for the purpose of a School recreational activity such as physical education.
Corrective Discipline for K5-5th Grade Our discipline may include, but is not limited to: counsel by the teacher, warnings, loss of certain privileges, change of seating, report to parents, written work, suspension, or other means as deemed necessary. Corporal punishment may also be used in K5-5th grade as described in the following paragraph. If, in the opinion of the administration, all reasonable disciplinary actions are exhausted, and the student continues his unacceptable behavior, the child will be dismissed.
Corporal Punishment for K5-5th Grade The administration, school board, and faculty strongly support the Scriptural admonition of
Biblical discipline, which sometimes includes corporal correction when a child’s behavior warrants it; however, none of our personnel will act in the place of the parent to administer corporal correction.
On occasion when discipline problems arise, either flagrant or on a continuing basis, and other methods of discipline are not effective, the parents of the students will be called to come to the school and administer corporal correction or if they prefer, take their child out for a day. In most cases, if the
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parent chooses to administer corporal correction, the child may return to class. If the parent chooses not to administer corporal correction or chooses not to respond, then the student may not return to school for at least one day. Some of the areas in which corporal correction may be required are disobedience, disrespect,
willful defiance or temper tantrums, fighting, destruction of property, and cursing or profanity.
These discipline guidelines may be amended during the year if the administration deems it necessary.
Dress and Appearance
We abide by the Biblical principle of modesty. Modesty applies not only to common decency, but to the matter of calling undue attention to oneself as well. An appearance that makes a person a public spectacle is inappropriate. Since fads and styles change frequently, the administration reserves the right to address the appropriateness of such style changes as they arise. These points of emphasis will be communicated to the students and parents by the administration. Inappropriate attire will be determined by the administration.
All students must be dressed in modest and appropriate clothing at all Academy sponsored activities.
Studies have been conducted that strongly indicate a correlation between dress and learning. A part of our discipline and orderly learning involves uniform dress. Inasmuch as we have proven its effectiveness for many years, we will maintain the following dress codes:
All Students
All students must arrive and depart from school in accordance to our uniform dress code.
Academy sweaters may be worn by any student. Students may wear a solid blue sweater. No sweatshirts, T-shirts, sweaters with writing, or hooded sweaters or jackets, or similar items may be worn over the uniform shirt or blouse while in the classroom.
Only Academy jackets may be worn during the school day.
Only the top button of a shirt or blouse may be unbuttoned.
No body piercing or tattoos are allowed.
Uniforms must have a proper fit. Shirts should be tucked in at all times.
Shoes that have laces must be laced and tied, and all footwear must have a proper fit.
Boys Haircuts are to be traditional and masculine in nature. Hair must not cover any portion of the
ear and must be worn above the eyebrows. Hair coloring or dyeing and extreme hairstyles are not permitted.
Boys may wear the black or khaki uniform pants with either the red or white school polo shirt or the white school oxford shirt with a button down collar. Specific uniform brand pants may be purchased through the uniform companies.
A solid color belt, socks, and t-shirt are required.
Athletic-type shoes may be worn.
Necklaces and/or earrings are never to be worn on the property at any Academy sponsored activity by any of the male students.
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Hats must be removed while indoors. All boys must be modest and appropriate in their dress at all school functions. If the sponsor
feels that the activity dictates shorts be worn, special permission may be given by the principal.
Girls
Hairstyles are to be traditional and feminine in nature. If hair is highlighted or dyed, only natural colors may be used in traditional styles as deemed by the administration.
Girls may wear the plaid uniform jumper with a white round-collared blouse. Jumpers must reach to at least the top of the knee. Girls may also wear a black or khaki skort with either the red or white school polo. Skort style # 2653GH from the BBC Bookstore or Rose Uniforms only. Socks, anklets, or tights that coordinate with the uniform must be worn. Shorts under the jumper are required. Young ladies who do not wear shorts under their jumpers may not use the playground equipment or participate in P.E.
Proper age appropriate undergarments must be worn at all times.
Athletic-type shoes may be worn by girls. Backless footwear is not acceptable.
Nail polish must be traditional in color – no black or other unusual colors or designs are allowed.
Excessive make-up or jewelry is not allowed.
Financial Policies
Application Application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Books Books are to be paid for by June 20. Books are distributed to the students as the curriculum
requires throughout the year.
If a student is withdrawn or expelled, they are responsible to take the textbooks issued to them when they leave. The only exception would be rental books or Saxon math sheets. No refunds can be given for books.
Tuition There are two options for making tuition payments. Monthly payments may be made through
our tuition management company, FACTS, or the yearly tuition may be paid in full according to our BBA Financial Information sheet. FACTS information and brochures may be picked up at the school office. Please refer to these for policies and due dates for monthly payments.
Discounts (Excluding children in K3-K4) Standard discounts are given for multiple child families. Please consult the current year’s
financial sheet for the proper discount amount. If tuition for the upcoming year is paid in full by July 1, a 2% discount will be given.
Delinquent Payments Students whose accounts are not paid by the end of the month may be withdrawn from the
Academy. No records or report cards will be given until a student’s account is paid in full.
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Extended Care An Extended Care Billing Preference Form must be filled out for each child in order to receive
the monthly extended care rate. This is a semester commitment and can be changed only once before the second semester begins.
Extended Care Monthly Rate is paid through FACTS, our tuition management company, according to the same policies and dates as school tuition.
Extended Care Daily Rate is paid to Berean Baptist Academy. Payment is due upon receipt of statement. If payment is not received by the 15th of each month, a late fee will be charged.
Extended Care opens at 6:00a.m. and closes at 6:00p.m. each school day. For safety reasons, students who arrive on campus more than 15 minutes prior to the start of school or 15 minutes after the stated pick-up time for each grade are required to be in Extended Care.
Fund Raising Fundraisers are held to benefit our school and our families. The school receives no federal
assistance nor is it endowed or supported by any organization.
Other Fees Periodically, there may be other fees assessed to your account. We will make every effort to
inform you before these fees are added; however, you will still be responsible for them.
Returned Checks There is a fee for returned checks. After two returned checks, bills must be paid on a “cash only”
basis.
Uniform Fees All money is paid directly to the BBC Bookstore. Information is available at the Bookstore.
Withdrawal Policy and Procedures Parents may withdraw a student for any reason after giving a 7-day notice. The school also has
the right, for any reason, to ask the students to withdraw, giving a 7-day notice. This provision is separate and apart from suspension or expulsion under the school’s disciplinary policies.
When a child is withdrawn from school, either by the parents or guardian, or at the request of the school administration, the following policies shall govern that withdrawal:
REGISTRATION FEES obligate the school to hold a place in the school for the student. These fees are non-refundable and are charged each year for new and returning students. These fees cover the school’s costs for paperwork, staff interviews, and record updates and changes. This fee is non-refundable in full or part whether the student fails to complete enrollment or withdraw before the end of the year.
TUITION is charged on an annual or monthly basis. We will refund tuition only if a notice of withdrawal is given to the school in writing, signed by the parent or guardian, two weeks before the child is withdrawn. If a child is withdrawn by the request of the school, one week’s tuition will be charged and the remainder refunded.
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TRANSCRIPTS will not be released until all books are returned and all bills paid.
THERE is a withdrawal fee. We reserve the right to make exceptions to this policy on an individual basis.
Expelled Students No monthly tuition refund will be given. Bills must be paid in full for transcripts to be released.
Financial responsibility for all debts is the parents’ or guardian’s obligation including any fees the school incurs while attempting to collect on a debt. All textbooks owned by the school must be returned.
General Policies and Information
Asbestos School buildings have been inspected by a licensed inspector and no “asbestos containing”
building materials were found.
Attendance Absence: Regular, punctual attendance is expected and required. In the case of an absence, the
Records Office should be contacted as early in the day as possible. Students who are absent from school must, upon their return, submit a note containing the following information:
Student’s Name Date and Reason of Absence Signature of Parent/Guardian
Requests for excused absences must be received in the Records Office on the day that the student returns to school before that student returns to class. Students with excused absences will be allowed to make up missed work for credit within the number of days absent. Students who fail to submit a note on the day of their return will be charged with an unexcused absence and may not receive credit for work that is missed.
Excused absences will be granted for the following reasons: Personal Illness Death in the Immediate Family Doctor or Dental Appointment (Please make appointments after school hours when possible.)
Local Disaster Family Day
Signing-Out for Appointments: A student who has a doctor or dental appointment is only excused for the time of transportation to and from the appointment itself. All students must have a note signed by a parent/guardian and turned in to the Records Office prior to school that morning. For their safety, students who leave for appointments must leave with their parents unless the excuse note specifically states otherwise. Students may not sign out or be signed out for any other reasons without permission from the principal even if they have parental permission.
A Family Day is an anticipated absence and should be used at the parent’s discretion. A maximum of four days per year will be considered. Requests must be made verbally or in writing to the Records
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Office by noon on the day before the date in question or it will not be excused. No requests will be granted during the last five days of any quarter, during achievement tests, or special meetings.
K5-5th grade students, arriving to school after 10:30a.m., are charged with a half-day absence. An accumulation of 30 or more absences during the year will jeopardize a student’s promotion to the next grade. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the administration in the case of an extended illness. Absences are recorded by half-days.
Days missed due to late registration or late financial payments are excused, but will be considered days absent and will be included in the total number of absences permitted for the semester.
An unexcused absence means that a student may not make up missed work for credit.
Make-up Work: Tests, quizzes, and homework missed during excused absences may be made up if completed during the allotted time which is the number of days absent.
Tardies: Each student is given five “Traffic Tardies” per quarter. The term, “Traffic Tardy,” refers to any reason a student is tardy excluding medical appointments with doctor’s note. On the sixth tardy, one unexcused absence is given. Each additional three tardies will result in an unexcused absence.
Awards Extraordinary achievement on behalf of the students is honored at awards ceremonies at the
conclusion of each school year.
Birthdays Students may celebrate birthdays by bringing simple, individually-wrapped treats for their classmates and teachers. Please notify the teacher one day in advance.
Book Covers All textbooks are provided through the Academy. All rental books must have book covers.
Students are responsible for lost or damaged textbooks.
Change of Address or Phone Number Please contact the school office with any address or phone number changes.
Check-In and Check-Out Procedures Students are to check in through the office if they come to school at any time after the school
day begins or if they leave the school at any time during the school day. Parents arriving on campus to pick up children during school hours must report to the office, and the office will send for the student. Messages and/or deliveries from home must be left at the office.
Electronic Devices Students are encouraged not to bring electronic devices to school.
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School Dismissal or Delays Berean Baptist Academy will make weather related decisions concerning the school day as the need arises. Official notifications will be sent via text message and email through the RenWeb program. In the event of an emergency on campus (fire, police, environmental, or a lockdown), parents will receive notification via text message and a detailed email with instructions for picking up children. Official notifications will be sent via the RenWeb program. Please do not call the school as phone lines may be required to communicate with emergency personnel.
Enrollment at Other Schools If we receive a request for a student’s records from another school in between school years, we
will automatically withdraw that student from the Academy even if they are enrolled for the following year. The first request to transfer a student’s record is free; however, there is a fee for subsequent requests. Academy graduates who request additional transcripts will also be charged a fee. Please see the Financial Information Sheet for details on fees.
Secular Movies, DVDs, and TV The “Hollywood” film industry promotes immorality, violence, blasphemy, vulgarity, indecency,
drug use, gambling, and an anti-Christian belief system. Realizing this, we question the wisdom of directly supporting such an industry by attendance at movie theatres. Also, to allow R-rated and/or PG13-rated films to be viewed in the home is spiritually and morally detrimental as is much of the current fare available on TV. The website www.pluggedinonline.com is a great resource to review movies prior to watching them.
Students attending Berean Baptist Academy are not allowed to attend R-rated movies at a movie theatre under any circumstance. Students are also not to watch R-rated movies at home. In very rare cases some PG-13 movies may be suitable for home viewing with a foul language filter device and parental supervision; however, we encourage parents to be extremely careful regarding the viewing habits of their children.
We also have a potential enemy in the Internet. Students must refrain from sites that contain inappropriate material.
Parents must closely monitor all media viewing. Students with entertainment practices contrary to the philosophy of Berean Baptist Academy may not be allowed to continue attending the Academy.
Illness at School Students must report to the office when they are ill. The office will contact the parents if the
child needs to go home. Children who have vomited, had diarrhea, or have a fever of 100 degrees or higher should not come to school for at least 24 hours. This will help prevent the spread of sickness to other students and teachers. Also, we request that a parent respond within one hour if contacted to pick up a sick student from school.
Insurance Accident insurance covering students while at school or while participating in an Academy
sponsored activity is provided by Berean Baptist Academy. This insurance is supplementary to personal
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medical insurance. The school does not accept financial responsibility for accidents occurring at the school or school functions as agreed to the liability release form. All questions regarding claims should be directed to the Financial Office.
Lost and Found Lost and found items may be discarded at the end of each week for health and sanitation
reasons. Please label all clothing, books, etc. to help avoid “lost” items.
Lunches Beverages, a full hot lunch menu, and snacks are available daily for purchase. A list of these
items is issued at Parent Orientation. A monthly menu is sent home with a packet note.
Medical Requirements All students must present and have on file in the Records Office evidence of proper
immunization. Students who lack proper immunizations will not be allowed to attend school until immunization records are brought up-to-date.
By law, Berean Baptist Academy will not administer over-the-counter medicine. With proper documentation, the teacher/staff member will administer prescribed medication.
Messages to Students The only time the office can guarantee they will relay a message to a student during class is in
the case of an extreme emergency. Any other messages and/or deliveries from home must be left at the office to avoid unnecessary disruption in the class.
Parent-Teacher Conferences It is often necessary for the parent/guardian and the teacher to meet and discuss certain
situations. Individual teachers may be contacted directly or they may be reached through the office. If a meeting with several teachers is desired, the office will work with the parent/guardian and the teachers that are involved to determine a time for the meeting. Any situation that is not adequately addressed through a parent/teacher conference should be referred to the Administration.
Personal Belongings We cannot be responsible for any personal items left at the school by a student. Personal items
should be clearly labeled to help them be returned to the owner. Personal items must not promote the personalities of rock music stars, super heroes with mystical powers, or scantily dressed characters. No themed or rolling book bags or lunch boxes.
Phone Use If a student is ill (fever, vomiting, etc.) and a phone call needs to be made to a parent, the office
personnel will make the call. No student is permitted to use the school phone without permission.
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Religious Views Those students with beliefs different from those of Berean Baptist Church and Academy are not
to discuss those views while on school or church property and may not be invited to return to the Academy in subsequent years of attendance.
School Hours All students that are brought to school more than 15 minutes prior to the start of school are
required to go to Extended Care.
Elementary Students
The school day begins at 8:15a.m. and ends at approximately 3:00p.m. Specific times will be announced for each grade on Orientation Night.
All Elementary students brought to school between 8:05a.m. and 8:15a.m. must use the South Lobby Entrance and go directly to class.
At the end of the school day, students who have not been picked up within 15 minutes of the scheduled pick-up time will be taken to Extended Care by the teacher.
Special Meetings Parents are expected to attend Parent Orientation Night, the Christmas Program, any other
Parent Meetings, and Parent/Teacher Conferences.
All students with parts in special programs (Speech, Band, Choir, etc.) are required to attend. Unexcused absences will be reflected in the student’s grade.
Sports Intermural basketball and cheerleading are offered to students in 3rd-5th grade. A nominal fee is
required for those who participate in our sports program. More information is provided to the students throughout the year.
Transportation Berean Baptist Academy does not provide bus transportation; however the Academy
encourages carpooling and desires to help in the matter.
Toys No toys or live animals are to be brought to school without permission. Some classes will have
planned “show and tell” or special days.
Visitors All visitors are to report to the school office before entering the lobby. Visitors, including
parents and friends of students, during school hours must have their visit approved by the principal. Please call at least one day in advance of the visit. All visitors must wear a badge identifying that they have checked in at the main school office. Visitors must comply with the dress code and standards of the school.
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Volunteers The Academy maintains a list of volunteers who are willing to help out from time to time. If you
are able to volunteer and would like to be added to the list, please contact the school office. We do require all volunteers to dress modestly and act in accordance with the Academy’s standards. All volunteers must give permission for a criminal background check to be conducted prior to volunteering at Berean Baptist Academy.
Parent, Student, and Teacher Communication
RenWeb Every BBA family is required to create a RenWeb Parent Account. This account provides the
school with an accurate email address for critical and routine communications. Furthermore, this
account allows the parent to view their child’s grades, homework assignments, attendance records, and
to receive information concerning upcoming events. A complete instructional guide on how to create
this account is available in the school office.
Parent Teacher Conferences Berean Baptist Academy hosts two parent teacher conferences each school year. They are
scheduled for the Friday following the close of the first and third quarters. Should a parent desire a
conference outside of these times, they may email the teacher or call the school office to request a
meeting.
Teacher Email BBA faculty has an official school email supported by Google. The faculty emails are
[email protected]. Teachers are expected to communicate periodically throughout the
quarter concerning special school events and major projects. Additionally, teachers are expected to
return any emails within 24 hours of receiving an email, provided the email is received on a weekday.
Any email sent on a weekend may have a delay in the response time. Should you not receive a
response, please call the school office requesting verification of receipt. If you feel that a teacher is not
communicating in an adequate manner as described above, you may contact the principal.
Conflict Resolution Procedures Berean Baptist Academy operates in alignment with the teachings of Jesus Christ concerning
conflict resolution. Parents are expected to speak with the teacher or appropriate administrative office
via email, phone, or in a personal conference to resolve all academic and discipline issues before seeking
the assistance of the principal. If a satisfactory resolution is not reached, parents may contact the
principal to mediate a meeting between the parent or administrative office and the teacher. If a
satisfactory resolution is not reached, the parent may request a meeting with the pastor or his
designated representative, the principal, and the teacher or administrative office.
Believing that scripture forbids Christians from seeking lawsuits against one another, all
members of BBC and those placing their children in BBA agree to submit to binding arbitration in the
event that any matter cannot be resolved, and expressly waive any and all rights in law and equity to
bringing any civil disagreement before a court of law, except that judgment upon the award rendered by
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the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. Notification of arbitration can
occur sixty days (60 days) after the initial meeting to resolve the conflict.
Online Teacher Evaluations Teacher evaluations are posted online for parents. Any parent may submit an evaluation of
their teacher’s performance.
Parent Teacher Organization
Board Members and Purpose Berean Baptist Academy has a voluntary PTO program. The PTO exists to provide support to the BBA faculty and administration. The PTO board consists of a president, vice-president, treasurer, secretary, parent liaison, and teacher liaisons. The PTO meets at least quarterly to plan and coordinate events that support the school and assist in fund raising.
Parent Volunteers In conjunction with the PTO board, the academy will maintain a list of volunteers who are willing to help the school. If you are able to volunteer, and would like to be added to the list, please contact a member of the PTO board or the school office. We do require all volunteers to dress accordingly and act in accordance with the academy’s standards. All volunteers must give permission for a criminal background check to be conducted before volunteering at BBA.
Special Meetings
Parent Orientation
Parents are required to attend a Parent Orientation night before the new school year begins.
All Other Programs
Parents are encouraged to attend the Christmas Program, the Spring Parent’s Meeting, sporting events, and other programs or conferences as they are scheduled.
General Program Schedule
Parent Orientation: The week before school starts
Parent and Teacher Conference: First and Third Quarter
Special Thanksgiving Service: Tuesday before Thanksgiving
Christmas Program: December
Open House: February
Homecoming: January – February
BBC Missions Conference: March
Spring Program: March-April
Graduations: May-June
*This handbook may be amended during the school year if the need arises. Revised 08/10/16
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