parent student handbookpotential. every student will be nurtured in a loving, safe christ centered...

Parent – Student Handbook

2017-2018

New Beginnings Christian Academy

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Table of Contents

Who We Are

Mission Statement 5

Vision Statement 5

Philosophy 5

Statement of Faith 6

What is a Christian education with classical influence? 7

Admissions and Enrollment Policies

Admissions Policy 8

Admissions Process 8

Registration 8

Re-Enrollment & Open Enrollment 9

Grade Level, Placement, and Retention 9

Financial Policies and Payment Procedures 10

Tuition Discounts and Scholarships 11

Military Transfer Policy 11

NBCA Daily Operations

School Hours 12

Student Attendance 12

School Uniform Policy 13

School Uniform Specification 13

Visitor Policy 15

Student Pick-Up 15

Personal Possessions Policy 15

Locker Policy 15

Student Technology Policy 15-16

Student Conduct

Student Behavior 17


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Student Discipline 17

Behaviors Not Tolerated 17-18

Bullying Policy 18

Sexual Harassment 19

Academics

Study Hall Policy 19

Grading/Evaluation 19

Academic Dishonesty Policy 19

Standardized Testing 20

Graduation Requirements 21

Health & Safety Policies

Illness/Fever Policy 21

Immunizations 21

Medication and First Aid 22

Fire/Weather/ Evacuation/Active Shooter Plans 22

Inclement Weather 23

Communications

Parent Communication 23

Parent – Teacher Communication 23

General Policies

School Building and Grounds 23


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Dear New Beginnings Christian Academy (or prospective NBCA) parents,

As a Christian school with a classical influence, New Beginnings Christian Academy

believes that partnering with parents will provide an excellent Christ-centered education for

our students.

While not everything relevant to our school is contained in this handbook, it is an

effective summary of information vital to understanding and navigating the NBCA system;

therefore, it is important to read, understand, and be prepared to abide by the policies and

procedures expressed. Most importantly, it is essential that the reader comprehend the

rationale for such a handbook – as a voluntary private educational institution we confidently

convey our Christian beliefs as well as the standards of conduct expected of students, parents,

faculty and staff at NBCA. This allows the reader to prayerfully count the cost of that education

(in terms of financial, spiritual and academic commitment) and to know that we desire

everyone at NBCA to grow in a way that will bring glory to Jesus Christ.

If you have any questions regarding the handbook, please feel free to contact the

Administrator.

Blessings,

NBCA Administration


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Who We Are

Our Mission Our children may only be one third of the population, but they are all of our future.

New Beginnings Christian Academy believes that each and every child has unlimited potential. Every student will be nurtured in a loving, safe Christ centered environment. It is the mission of NBCA to equip, educate, and empower students through a Christian worldview that integrates learning and faith in God. Our goal is to promote a body of

educated, well-rounded individuals, wholesomely prepared for a life of servitude.

Vision Statement New Beginnings Christian Academy is committed to the highest standards of academic

excellence and Christian values. This environment will serve to give the students a Biblical Christian worldview that will equip them to think clearly and listen carefully

with discernment and understanding, who reason persuasively and articulate precisely, who are capable of evaluating their entire range of experiences in the light of Scriptures,

and who do so with eagerness and humility in a joyful submission to the Lord. Students are strengthened for lives of purposes which will enhance the world we live in

in sustainable and meaningful ways.

Philosophy

“We are Professionals Specializing in Quality Education”

We believe each student is unique and special with the potential to grow and learn. Our classical and Christ centered curriculum provides our students an environment that is designed to expect, support and demonstrate at the highest of academic levels. In order for our students to attain a higher level of education our staff enhance and promote this opportunity through a rigorous teaching style. As educators, we understand the importance of the scriptural worldview as a foundation. The valuable classical model and our smaller class size, allow us to ensure individualized education based on the student’s strengths. It is our objective to create a fun, interactive and disciplined environment for our students. Therefore, we will strive to teach godly principles through manners, fairness, courtesy, and respect for others, while remaining constantly alert to the well-being of our students.


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Statement of Faith

We believe the Bible to be the inspired, infallible, authoritative Word of God that is

truth for all people. NBCA teaches straight from the Word of God, not putting denominational

doctrine into its students but that a true Christian school is known by engaging in the pure

preaching of the Gospel.

We shall endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit until we all come into the unity of the

faith, at the same time admonishing all brethren that they shall not contend for their different

views to the disunity of the body.

Godly living should characterize the life of every child of the Lord, and we should live by

the pattern and example given in the Word of God. “For the grace of God that bringeth

salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we

should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” (Titus 2:11-12). “For even

hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye

should follow his steps: who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: who, when he

was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to

him that judgeth righteously” (1 Peter 2:21-23). “Follow peace with all men, and holiness,

without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). “But as He which hath called you is

holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s

work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: forasmuch as ye know that ye were not

redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by

tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish

and without spot” (1 Peter 1:15-19).

We believe in the responsibility of parents to educate their children in the Lord. We are

the delegate of the parent assisting them in the education of their children but will not usurp

their God given parental right and responsibility.

We believe in biblical discipline, the correction and reproof of a disobedient child, is a

critical and necessary part of a Christian education. Under no circumstances will we permit the

bad behavior of one child to continuously affect the education of other children.


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What is Christian Education with a Classical Influence?

Classical education depends on a three-part process of training the mind called Trivium.

The first stage is the grammar stage for grades Kindergarten to 6th grade. These early years of

school are spent absorbing facts and systematically laying the foundations for advanced studies

through grammar, Latin and various other subjects. Much of the learning is done by

memorization and singing.

The dialectic stage is for grades 7th to 9th grade and this is where the student becomes more

inquisitive and enjoys learning. God made children to question the world around them and at

NBCA, we teach them how to question things rightly and righteously. The overarching discipline

of this stage is logic. Whereas the grammar stage students learn many facts without realizing

the logical connection between the facts, in the dialectic stage students work to see the logical

connections between facts that they learned in the grammar stage.

The third and final stage of the Trivium is the rhetoric stage for grades 10th-12th. Here, they

learn to express themselves through writing and speech. They learn to express the logical

relations between things in an understandable, convincing, and winsome manner to others.

Students will be well equipped and well rounded, knowing the logic of the truth they believe

and advocate.

The philosophy of education at NBCA is rooted in the biblical example set forth by Jesus, who

took ordinary people and did extraordinary things in and through them. NBCA provides a

challenging academic environment in the context of biblical values. The fundamental focus on

preserving and strengthening the God-ordained family relationships in which Christian faith and

education is most effective through our partnership with the student and the parent. NBCA

integrates a biblical worldview into the various subject areas offered, building up the Christian-

character and giving a solid academic foundation ideal for college.

NBCA is the only Christian school with a classical approach in the Big Country, providing a

Christian education for grades K – 12.


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Admissions and Enrollment Policies

Admissions Policy

New Beginnings Christian Academy shall admit students of any sex, race, color, religion

or national or ethnic origin, to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made

available to students at NBCA.

Students applying for acceptance into NBCA shall provide past scholastic records and

will be given a placement test to be administered by the NBCA staff. Each applicant will be

interviewed and evaluated to determine proper grade placement taking into account the

student’s level of achievement, their age, and other social, physiological, and developmental

considerations.

At NBCA we meet the student where their strengths are and come alongside them and

help them where they may be lacking. A student may be at a fourth grade level but reads at a

fifth-grade level; we provide the environment to move the child up (or down) to meet their

need for specific core classes.

NBCA observes the state- adopted cutoff date of five years of age on or before

September 1st of the school year for entrance into kindergarten.

Admissions Process

Parents wishing to enroll their child or children into New Beginnings Christian Academy

must first fill out an application for each child. The application must be signed and returned

with the nonrefundable application fee of $125 for each child. Upon receipt of this, a place will

be held for that child if there is a place open for them in the grade in which they are applying.

This does not mean that the student has been accepted or registered to NBCA.

If a place is not open in the grade applied for, the student will be placed on a waiting list

and will be eligible for admittance only when a spot opens for that grade.

For registration to be complete and accepted, three things must be completed: The

child must take a placement test, the parents and child must have an interview and tour with

the Administration, and finally, parents must complete all forms and provide all academic

records, immunizations and sign their parent tuition contract. NBCA has made budgetary

decisions including things like teacher salary and curriculum based upon the commitments that

parents make to the school, once signed, parents are committed to pay the tuition for the year.


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Registration

Registration is considered a first come, first serve basis upon receipt of all enrollment

forms and fees. After a period of pre-registration for current students, registration will be open

to the public.

Re-Enrollment and Open Enrollment

The re-enrollment registration date will be announced for the upcoming school year in

the spring semester of each year.

Re-enrollment registration has priority for saving a place in their grade. Siblings and

currently enrolled students may enroll at this time and will be on a first come, first serve basis.

Once the time of re-enrollment is up, open enrollment will begin and will be open to the public.

Open enrollment registration will be open to the public after the period of re-

enrollment, and the admissions process will begin for new and prospective students.

Grade Level Placement, Advancement, and Retention

Student placement is determined by a staffing process that takes into account the

student’s level of achievement, their chronological age, and other social, physiological, and

developmental considerations. On occasion, it may be the professional assessment of NBCA

that it is in the best interest of the student to repeat a grade. Before such a decision is made,

the following steps will be made to ensure the student’s best interest is being served:

When the teacher becomes aware that a student is having difficulty performing, the

teacher will inform Administration and will communicate with the parents.

The Administration shall be informed on a continuing basis as to the ongoing progress of

the student. Parents are encouraged to contact the teacher at any time to check the status of

their child. Parent-Teacher conferences are available upon request of parent or teacher at any

time.

Failure to participate in class, turn in homework or make corrections on teacher-

approved assignments or tests, can affect the grade of the student resulting in a failing grade.

Students who do not pass their core classes will not advance to the next grade.


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Financial Policies and Payment Procedures

Tuition payments, testing fees, textbook fees and science lab fees are to be paid in full

prior to student starting school. Tuition payments can be made in full or monthly in 10-month

increments. In the event of a mid-year or mid-semester transfer into the academy, tuition/fees

are prorated. Upon completion of all admission forms and receipt of all fees the student’s

enrollment will be secured.

Tuition is due on the first of every month and is considered late after the fifth. On the

6th, a late charge of $20 a week will be assessed until the account is current. Accounts past due

after the month are subject to student(s) dismissal at the discretion of the Administration.

Students that are withdrawn or suspended from school are responsible for tuition for the year.

If a tuition account remains delinquent for two or more months, or there is evidence of chronic

tardiness in making monthly payments, NBCA reserves the right to withdraw the student from

the academy, or deny re-enrollment for the following semester or year, and to withhold the

student’s grades, testing results, transcripts or diploma until the family account is paid in full.

Seniors whose account is not paid in full prior to graduation will not be allowed to participate in

graduation ceremonies, nor will they receive their diploma, until the account is paid in full.

By signing and returning an enrollment contract, we reserve a place for your child (as

class space is available) and you pledge to NBCA to honor the costs indicated in order that we

may meet the budget of the academy. We employ faculty, administrative staff, and coaches in

accordance with the number of students enrolled and must honor those staff contracts

whether, or not, a student withdraws from the academy. If you find it necessary to withdraw

your child after the enrollment contract is signed and returned to NBCA, please contact

administration as soon as possible. There are no tuition or fee refunds. Please note the

following, all tuition payments for any course which is cancelled by NBCA will be credited in full

to the existing family account.

Transcripts are available upon request for those that have fulfilled their financial

obligation to NBCA in accordance with NBCA policies. The first three requests are free for

students currently enrolled at NBCA with a $5 per transcript fee thereafter, and a $10 per

transcript fee for NBCA alumni or withdrawn students.

Graduating students will have a $250 fee assessed to their tuition to cover the cost of

diplomas, academic awards, cap and gown, and other items directly related to the graduation

ceremony.


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Tuition Discounts and Scholarships

NBCA is committed to keeping tuition as low as possible and offers several tuition

discount opportunities to students entering Kindergarten through twelfth grade. Discounts are

stackable; the maximum combined discount is not to exceed 50% of tuition per child. We offer

a third child in family discount at 30%, families with four or more children have a 50% discount

per student. We offer military discounts per student if the parent is active duty at 10%. Parents

that are in full time ministry and the majority of income is derived from the ministerial position

are offered a 20% discount.

Parents at NBCA should know that their tuition only covers a portion of the expenses of

the Academy each year. NBCA will have various fundraising opportunities throughout the year.

The school is working to promote an atmosphere of cheerful giving and wants to strive to be a

place that parents, grandparents, friends, and eventually alumni want to support. Generous

gifts are needed and appreciated as well.

Military Transfer Policy

NBCA understands that some of our enrolled families may be required to move by order

of the U.S. Armed Services. If a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is anticipated or issued, not

a TDY, then the affected family must immediately notify the Administration.

Should the entire family be required to relocate permanently, NBCA will coordinate to

set a reasonable date in which the student’s enrollment will discontinue. All fees are non-

refundable; however, the student’s tuition will be prorated on a weekly basis for the balance of

the tuition. For students who paid in full, their tuition will be refunded according to the

prorated amount, i.e. if a student paid in full for thirty-eight weeks but only attended ten

weeks, the twenty-eight weeks will be refunded. NBCA does not intend for a family to pay for

private education twice: once at NBCA and again at their new location.


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Daily Operations

School Hours

NBCA opens the doors at 7:30am Monday- Friday. Please do not drop off your children

prior to 7:30 as there is no staff or adult supervision available at that time.

School begins at 8am Monday – Friday and lets out at 3:10 Monday – Thursday.

On Fridays, our school has half days and dismisses at noon. All children need to be

picked up promptly after school. We do not offer after-school care at this time.

Student Attendance

To provide a quality education, attendance is highly valued and a key component in

ensuring a strong academic program. NBCA’s commitment to excellence in each child’s

education cannot occur if the student is chronically tardy or absent from the classroom.

Attendance is taken every day and is a contributing factor to a student’s grade promotability.

Students must attend 90% of the school days to be promoted. An unexcused absence

is any absence not excused by a doctor’s. If a student misses any exams, presentations, or any

classwork due to an unexcused absence, they will not be permitted to make up the work.

NBCA recognizes the authority of parents over their children and that there are

circumstances like family trips and events, ministry conferences, and mission’s trips where

parents would like their children with them. Any students that need to be excused from school

for more than three days, need to coordinate the absences with the teachers ahead of time and

collect the school work needed to keep the student on track. A student who is excused will not

be penalized for the absence. However, they are expected to make up all missed work within

the first few days they are back. Students are required to complete all requirements for every

course offered. A record for attendance is kept in the main office, the total number of days

absent, and present will be recorded on the student’s quarterly report card and on their high

school transcript.

If a student’s absences accumulate to the point that the teacher or administrator has a

concern that the student will not be able to adequately complete the work necessary to

advance to the next grade, a call or conference will be arranged with the parents.


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School Uniform Policy

Uniforms are required for all students that attend NBCA. Our school uniform supplier is Cookies

Kids and is available through their online catalog at www.cookieskids.com. Simply put NBCA in the

school source code and you can see the approved uniforms, colors and plaids for our school.

The formal dress uniform is worn by all students on Mondays and for Recitations. Regular dress

uniform is worn on all other class days except for Fridays, in which the school t-shirt is allowed to be

worn. For students that do not have the t-shirt, they must wear the regular uniform.

The navy cardigan, vest, sweater or blazer is the only indoor garment to be worn over uniforms

during class time. All other t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, or button-up shirts are not authorized. Heavier

outerwear should remain in the student’s lockers and worn only during outdoor activities.

Items such as belts, socks and tights can be purchased from any store. Belts need to be brown or

black. Socks for boys should be white or black, white or navy for girls.

No sandals, boots, or tennis shoes are allowed. Shoes need to be dress shoes or loafer style for

boys and girls. Tennis shoes are only allowed during PE class or with their Friday uniform.

Modest jewelry is permitted (i.e. simple stud earrings, watches, and tasteful necklaces or rings)

as long as it does not interfere with the learning environment or pose a safety hazard.

No hair of distracting color or cut. Boy’s hair may not be longer than their shirt collar and should

be trimmed.

Accessorizing or individualizing the uniform is not permitted.

Uniform Non-Compliance Rule

When a student is not in their uniform the parent will be called/note sent home and asked to

send appropriate attire. The student will receive a uniform policy reminder. After two uniform policy

reminders have been sent home a conference with Administration and parents will be scheduled.

Student conduct grades on their report card may be affected by uniform non-compliance.

School Uniform Specification

Monday Dress Uniform

Girls: Kindergarten-4th Grade:

Little/Big Kids slit neck jumper (green/gold Plaid #83)

Peter Pan lace trim blouse

Cable knit knee socks

Closed toe dress shoes (navy/brown/black)

http://www.cookieskids.com/


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Girls: 5th-12th

Pleated skirt to the knee (green/gold plaid #83)

White dress shirt

Cable knit knee socks


Crisscross necktie (green/gold plaid #83)

Navy Cardigan

Boys: Kindergarten -12th

White dress shirt – tucked in

Khaki pants

Belt (brown/black)

Green/gold plaid #83 tie


Navy blazer with gold buttons (For 5th-12th only)

Tuesday-Thursday Girls/Boys

Pleated skirt to the knee (green/gold plaid #83)

Hunter green, navy or white polo shirts


Navy or white tights or leggings

Friday Girls/Boys

Blue jeans or blue jean skirt (to the knee)

School T-shirt or Red, white, navy polo

Tennis Shoes

PE

Tennis shoes

Knights T-shirt

Boys: Plain Navy shorts (to the knee), or plain navy athletic pants

Girls: Navy MOD skirt/skort (to the knee)


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Visitor Policy

At NBCA, we love family. Family members are welcome to visit, tour, sit in class and have lunch

or join in special events. All visitors must sign in and out at the front office. This policy is for the safety

of all students and will help the staff and faculty keep track of persons on the campus in case of an

emergency.

NBCA reserves the right to not grant access to visitors.

Student Pick-up Policy

Students are only permitted to leave the property with people that have been authorized on the

Student Pick-Up Form. If there is a last-minute change, the school will only release the students if the

parent has called the front office (325-437-9499) or sent a note in advance and the individual shows

proper ID.

Personal Possessions

Students are not to bring anything to school that will distract them or other students in the

classroom except for show-and-tell days at the discretion of their teachers. This includes tablets,

cellphones, gaming devices, smart watches, and toys.

*Tablets, phones and laptops can be used for research with the permission of the student’s

teacher. See our Technology policy.

The school reserves the right to restrict items that a student may bring into the school. NBCA, its

employees and staff will not be held responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items.

Technology Policy

We are pleased to offer the NBCA students access to the World Wide Web and other electronic

networks. We believe that the advantage afforded by the rich, digital resources available today through

the World Wide Web outweigh any disadvantage. However, access is a privilege, not a right, and carries

with it responsibilities for all involved. Misuse means any violation of this agreement or any other use

that is not included in the agreement but has the effect of harming another or his/her property. ALL

computers will be MONITORED by our Administrator.

The school is providing access to its computers and the Internet for educational purposes only.

A user that violates the technology agreement shall at the very least, have their access terminated. The

school may also take other disciplinary actions.

Unacceptable uses may include: causing harm to others or their property (i.e. harming another

person’s reputation by lies); cyber bullying; using another person’s password, login or other identifier

that may mislead message recipients into believing that someone other than the owner of the account is


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communicating or otherwise using his/her access to the internet. Uploading a virus, trojan horse, time

bomb, or other harmful form of programming or vandalism is strictly prohibited. Participation in

hacking activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information

systems is strictly prohibited. Any use which violates state or federal law, or which violates any other

applicable law or public regulation relating to copyright, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or

pornographic materials, is strictly prohibited.

NBCA students may not sell or buy anything over the internet. No student shall give out private

information about themselves or others. Personally identifiable information concerning students may

not be disclosed or used in any way on the Internet without permission of parent or guardian; if the

student is 18 or over, personally identifiable information will not be permitted to be disclosed during

school hours. A supervising teacher or administrator may authorize the release of directory

information, as defined by law, for internal administrative purposes or approved educational projects or

activities.

NBCA uses student pictures on the website for promoting learning, collaboration, and provides

an opportunity to share the achievements of students. However, safety is a priority. The school website

will follow all procedures for content, copyright and appropriateness per Web Publishing Procedures.

Images of K-12 students may be included in the website without identifying captions or names.

Websites may include full names for student work/honors without accompanying images. Any

exceptions to this guideline will be communicated and signed-off by individual parents through NBCA

personnel. Parents may opt out of any use of image/student work by indicating their wishes on the

Photo Agreement. Despite every effort for supervision and filtering, all users and their

parents/guardians are advised that access to the internet may include the potential for access to

materials inappropriate for school-aged students. Every user must take responsibility for his or her use

of the Internet and avoid these sites.

In using the Internet, users shall not reveal personal information such as home address or

telephone number. Users shall never arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone they “met” on the

Internet without a parent’s permission if under 18 years of age.

NBCA utilizes filtering software to prevent students from accessing visual depictions that are (1)

obscene, (2) pornographic, or (3) harmful to minors. The school will also monitor the online activities of

students through direct observation and/or technical means.

Online communication is critical to our students’ learning of 21st century skills such as: blogging

and pod-casting these offer an authentic, real-world vehicle for student expression. Again, as educators,

our primary responsibility is safety. Hence, expectations for classroom blog, student protected e-mail,

podcasts projects or other web interactive use, must follow all established Internet safety guidelines.

Students using blogs, podcasts or other web tools are expected to act safely by keeping ALL personal

information out of their posts. Students using such tools agree not to share their username or password

with anyone besides their teacher and parents and treat blog-spaces as classroom spaces. Speech that

is inappropriate in the classroom is also inappropriate for a blog. Students who do not abide by these

terms and conditions may lose their opportunity to take part in the project and/or subject to

consequences.


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In regard to gaming, students are allowed to use their personal devices (smart phone, laptop, or

tablet) or school owned technology for chess only. Students that are caught gaming or are caught on

their phones during school hours will have their device confiscated for the day. The 1st time it may be

picked up by a parent in the front office after school, the 2nd time a parent may pick up the device

after paying a $25 fee. The 3rd time the students privilege of bringing their personal technology to

school will be revoked.

Students can access the World Wide Web on their smart phones, tablets or laptops only with

the permission and supervision of their teacher for research for projects they are assigned. Social

media, snap chat, lively, etc., is not allowed and will result in confiscation of such device.

Student Conduct

Student Behavior

The purpose of NBCA Student Code of Conduct is to promote a Christ-like attitude in the

learning environment and to encourage the development of positive Christian relationships among

students. Therefore, it is important that specific guidelines regarding behavior at NBCA be set. The

purpose of these guideline is to promote and maintain a community conducive to our mission. The

student who violates these guidelines will undergo corrective measures designed to eliminate the

behavior and ensure the student’s continued participation in the academy. The student who

demonstrates continued violation of these guidelines places his or her enrollment status in jeopardy.

NBCA operates on the honor system. Students are expected to be truthful, honest, and upright

in their words and actions as a matter of commitment to Christ. Violations of the honor system (i.e.

lying, academic dishonesty, and impure speech or behavior) in matters pertaining to any facet of school

life are not tolerated. Students must show respect to adults at all times. Students must treat others

with respect, kindness, purity and compassion. Bullying, intimidation, slander, verbal or physical abuse,

or harassment of another student, faculty or staff is not tolerated.

Public displays of affection between genders, such as but not limited to, hand-holding, kissing,

affectionate hugging, etc. are not permitted at any time. Boyfriend/girlfriend relationship is not allowed

at NBCA.

There will be no horseplay, running or rough play is prohibited during or between classes.

Fighting in any form is not tolerated and is grounds for immediate dismissal.

The use of profanity, worldly slang, or vulgar colloquialisms in spoken or written form, or the use

of offensive gestures is not permitted at any time.

Student Discipline

We strive for excellence in righteousness. Student who exhibit behaviors of disobedience,

anger, cruelty, teasing, troublemaking, insensitivity, etc. will be sent to the office to write scripture out

pertaining to those offenses.


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The second time the student exhibits such behavior a call to a parent is made and behavior is

documented in student file. Habitual unruly behavior may lead to suspension or expulsion at the

consent of the Administration.

Behaviors Not Tolerated

The following is a list of behavior offenses that may lead to detention, suspension, or expulsion

at the discretion of the Administration.

Extortion (obtained by force or threat of force)

False Alarms (setting off fire alarms or extinguishers)

Fighting (physical contact between two or more students)

Forgery or cheating

Verbal assault (including swearing or racial comments)

Physical assault (hitting another person, pushing or shoving)

Insubordination (refusing to comply with a reasonable request)

Stealing

Truancy

Vandalism

Dress code violations

Bullying

Sexual Harassment

Weapons (guns, knives and other weapons are not permitted on property)

Physical assault is defined as hitting, pushing, shoving, biting, or physically injuring another

person with malicious intent which includes the act of extortion that is either obtained by force or threat

of force.

If a student endangers himself/herself or another student or exhibits an extreme lack of self-

control, the student will be removed from class and remain in the Administration office for a period of

time or may be sent home. A parent, teacher and administrator meeting will follow.

Bullying Policy

Bullying is defined as "unwanted negative behavior, verbal, psychological or physical conduct by

an individual or group against another person (or persons) and which is repeated over time". Bullying of


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any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. If bullying does occur the following steps will be

taken:

Warning with a loss of classroom privileges

Conference with student and parents

In-school suspension / suspension for one or more days

Expelled from school

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment of students by other students, employees or volunteers of NBCA is unlawful

under both Texas and Federal law. This behavior will not be tolerated. Please contact the

Administration if there is any concern over this matter. All reports will be investigated and resolved

promptly.

Academics

Study Hall Policies

Study hall is for studying. It is to be used as a time for catching up on schoolwork, studying,

research and projects. It is not a free period. For students that have no work to do, additional duties

may be assigned (cleaning, office aid, or teacher aid).

Grading/ Evaluation

NBCA’s grading scale is:

90 – 100 = A 60 – 69 = D

80 – 89 = B 59 and below = F

70 – 79 = C

For students to advance to the next grade level, they must pass their classes with at least a C

average.

Academic Dishonesty Policy

Academic dishonesty in any form is a rejection of biblical values, a series breach of personal

integrity, and a severe hindrance to student learning. We view any instance of academic dishonesty as a

serious violation of academy policies and will respond accordingly to ensure the integrity of our

academic and Christ-centered mission.

Academic dishonesty is broadly defined as “Any attempt, whether successful or not, on the part

of a student or parent, whether realized or not, to falsely represent the student’s level of achievement


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or mastery in a given course, or with regard to any element of that course.” This definition includes, but

is not limited to, the following: claiming or indicating in any form or fashion that the student has fulfilled

any assignment or other academic responsibility, such as reading assigned texts or engaging in a study,

when in fact he/she has not done so.

Using any resources, including but not limited to cell phones, solution manuals, and teacher-

edition textbooks, other than those authorized by the course instructor in writing papers, preparing

reports, solving problems, or completing course assignments.

Obtaining quizzes, tests, examinations, or other academic materials or evaluation instruments,

in whole or part, created by or belonging to an instructor, other staff members, or the academy itself,

including but not limited to such materials improperly used and in the possession of students currently

or previously enrolled in the course.

Engaging in plagiarism, which includes but is not limited to “the knowing or negligent use by

paraphrase or direct quotation of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and

clear acknowledgment” and “the knowing or negligent unacknowledged use of materials prepared by

another person or agency” which customarily sells or offers free of charge term papers or other

academic materials.

Altering a graded paper or project for the purpose of disputing the accuracy of the grade.

Collaborating without explicit authorization with another student or students during any quiz,

test or examination or in the fulfillment of any other academic assignment or responsibility.

The use of any medium (paper, skin, clothing, walls, desk tops, etc.) to write in advance the

answers to questions found on the quiz, test, or examination.

The act of looking on another student’s paper, whether or not that results in a change of answer

or the obvious act of position one’s own paper so as to give access to information to another student(s).

The act of informing through any means (speech, cough, writing, body signals, mouthing, or electronic

devices) another student about the general or specific content of a quiz, test or examination.

The act of showing a completed or graded assignment to another student who has yet to

complete the assignment.

Standardized Testing

NBCA students will take the Iowa Standardized Test every April for grades 3rd -12th. Results will

be mailed back to the school and will show your student’s performance compared to a national level. It

is a good indicator to where your student is at academically.

Extra-Curricular Activities

For students to be able to participate in extracurricular activities like chess club, yearbook,

athletics, etc., they must be in good academic standing.


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Graduation Requirements

NBCA requires a minimum of 24 credits to graduate high school.

English Language Arts: Four Credits Science: Two Credits

Mathematics: Three Credits Social Studies: Three Credits

Bible: Two Credits Foreign Language: Two Credits

Physical Education: One Credit Fine Arts: One Credit

Electives: 6 Credit Hours

Health & Safety Policies

Illness/ Fever Policy

When a student is ill, parents must call the front office to inform them of the illness. Students should

not attend class if they:

Have or had a fever of 101 degrees within the past 24 hours.

Have experienced vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours.

Are experiencing uncontrolled coughing or an asthmatic episode.

Have been diagnosed with a contagious illness, such as strep throat, tonsillitis, bronchitis,

conjunctivitis, or influenza, within the past 24 hours (even with prescribed medication).

Students may return to class when:

Their temperature remains below 100 degrees without medication for 24 hours.

After it has been 24 hours after beginning an antibiotic treatment, providing the student is able

to participate in regular class activity.

24 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhea.

Once coughing or asthmatic episode has subsided.

With written permission from a physician, if applicable.

Students should have a note from home if they are not to participate in PE. If a child cannot participate

for more than two days in a row, then a physician’s note will be required.

If a student becomes ill during the day, the student should obtain permission from the teacher to go to

the front office. If the student is ill or injured at school, the student’s parents will be called. If neither

parent is available, the persons listed as emergency contacts will be notified. Students leaving campus

early must be signed out in the front office.


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Immunizations

Immunizations must be compliant with Texas State Law. A current copy of the records with the

student’s name and birthday must be remitted to the front office when you register for enrollment. If

your student is unable to receive immunizations due to a medical or religious reason, a notarized

exemption form is required. All exemption forms must be re-submitted, notarized and signed every two

years.

Medication

For any medication, either prescription or over the counter to be administered, the following

procedure needs to be followed:

Both prescription and non-prescription medication must be brought by a parent or legal

guardian to the school front office in its original container. No student shall have possession of or

transport any medication on campus except for authorized Epi-pens and rescue inhalers.

A Medication Authorization Form must be filled out prior to the first scheduled dose.

Prescription containers must be clearly labeled with the student’s name, medication name and strength,

instructions for use, prescription number and date, the prescribing physician or practitioner and the

name and address of the pharmacy.

If a parent/student violates this policy, and a Medication Authorization Form is not completed,

the school will not administer the medication. However, the parent may administer the medication.

The staff and teachers of NBCA are trained and qualified to provide CPR and basic first aid to

students. Injuries that are more serious will result in contact with parents and/or trained medical

personnel.

Fire/Weather/Evacuation/Active Shooter Plans

NBCA conducts monthly fire drills to prepare our staff and students on the safest way to exit the

building. A copy of each classroom’s fire evacuation plan is located in each classroom. All students and

teachers rally point is in the grass field by the shed in the back of the parking lot. All classes will line up

together with their grade and the teacher will take attendance. The Administrator will be the last

person to exit the building after checking all restrooms, sanctuary and classrooms for children. Once the

Administrator exits the building and meets at the designated area, teachers will hold up a green check

form if all their students are accounted for. Teachers will hold up a red X form if they are missing a

student at which time the Administrator will re-enter the building to make another attempt to locate

any missing students.

In the event of a tornado, our procedure is as follows: if a tornado WATCH is issued,

Administration and teachers will monitor the NOAA and local weather forecast, as well as a visual scan

of the sky. If/when the watch progresses to a warning, students will be calmly escorted to their

designated safe zone locations. Students should kneel with their heads down, cover the back of their

heads with their hands and arms and assume the position until the “All Clear” has been given.


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Due to an emergency requiring the school to be evacuated from the premises, our procedure is

to calmly escort the students out of the building and across the street to the parking lot of Holy Family

Catholic Church. Teachers will stop and block traffic for the students to safely cross. Parents will be

notified via the Remind App to pick their children up from that location.

In the event of an active shooter, our students will not evacuate the property. Teachers will lock

themselves and the students in their classrooms, turn off the lights, get under the desks and cover their

heads.

Inclement Weather

NBCA follows AISD for all school delays and cancellations. In the event of a delay or

cancellation, the information will be posted on TV and the administrator will text all parents via the

Remind App.

Communications

Parent Communication

NBCA will communicate with parents via telephone, text, email and handouts. The

administration and Teachers communicate via the Remind App. We ask that all parents download the

Remind App and join NBCA. Parents and students will be given class codes each year in order to stay

informed of class information, tests, quizzes, homework or special events will be announced. Teachers

will also send handouts, assignments and letters to parents via the Knight binder. Each student will be

able to log their homework, tests and quizzes daily to better track their assignments.

Parent-Teacher Communication

Teachers communicate with parents via handouts and the Remind App. Parents are welcome to

ask the teacher questions regarding their child through the app. All replies are private and between you

and the teacher only. We encourage parents to communicate with their students’ teachers for

homework clarification, student progress and any other concerns they may have. A parent-teacher

conference may be scheduled at any time.

General Policies

School Building & Grounds

The school facility and grounds must be kept clean and orderly, reflecting an attitude of

gratefulness and Biblical stewardship. Appropriate behavior is expected while in the Sanctuary.

Students are not permitted on the platform unless told by their teacher to do so for choir, recitation, or

speeches. No alteration may be made to the facility or equipment without approval from the

Administration. Equipment may not be removed from the grounds without consent of the

Administration. The use of the facilities and grounds may not conflict with regularly or previously

scheduled activities. All requests to use the facility or grounds must be made through the front office


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and approved by the Church Administrator. The Church Administration reserves the right to cancel any

activity deemed inappropriate.

Administration reserves the right to search the facilities at any time, including all lockers and

desks. Any lockers using locks must be by combination lock only and the combination must be given to

the front office.


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I have read and understand the policies that are set forth in this Handbook.

Parent Signature: ___________________________________________Date _______________________

Student Signature: __________________________________________Date_______________________

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