2007-08

Secondary Student and Parent Handbook

Philosophy and Foundations

Mission Statement

                NHCS is educating students from a  Biblical world view, equipping them to live a lifestyle that honors God.

Statement of Purpose

                Concise instructions for raising successful generations for the future are given in Deuteronomy 6. This clearly states that God’s Word, and accounts of how God works with people, must completely surround youth on a 24-hour basis. Our ministry is to assist the family and local, Bible-believing churches in fulfilling this command for the nurturing and training of children (see Deut. 6:1-9; Prov. 6:20; 22:6; 29:17; Eph. 6:4).

                Christian education is to teach all truth to our students, pointing them to Christ as the only Savior and Lord, and encouraging them to make a personal commitment to Him and to "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (II Peter 3:18).  The school upholds standards of appropriate behavior and academic excellence, with God's Word as the unchanging standard.

Statement of Philosophy

                New Hope Christian Schools is primarily a religious institution and secondarily, an educational institution.  The School's view of the nature of the student, truth, education, and the role of the teacher is integral to the School's statement of philosophy.

1.        The Nature of the Student: The student is created by God in His image to have fellowship with Him, but is born in sin and separated from God. The student may be reconciled to God through faith in Jesus Christ and enabled by grace to learn and grow in truth. Each individual has gifts and abilities that need to be developed for God's own purpose. (Gen. 1:26-27; Ps. 51:5; Rom. 5:12; Eph. 2: 8-10)

2.        The Nature of Truth: All truth is of God, and no truth exists apart from Him. The Bible is the God-given, unchanging standard by which all things are measured. Apart from spiritual regeneration, the student cannot fully know and understand truth. (Ps. 19:7-11; I Cor. 2:9-12)

3.        The Nature of Christian Education:   It is a process of presenting subject matter in a way that shows complete union with all of God's truth. It is a living demonstration of Biblical principles on the part of all personnel involved in the process.  It has applying the meaning and purpose found in Jesus Christ to all of life as its goal.

4.        The Role of the Teacher: The teacher is expected to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit in the fullest possible measure. The teacher is responsible to motivate each student according to his or her ability. The teacher should foster student effort and encourage the application of spiritual motives for learning. (Luke 6:40)

Statement of Faith

(In summary form; more detailed form available on our website or upon request)

1.        We believe the Bible to be inspired, the only infallible, authoritative Word of God.

2.        We believe in the historical reliability of the Bible, including the literal six-day creation, fall of man, and the global Genesis flood.

3.        We believe in the Trinity - God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. 

4.        We believe in the deity of Christ, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His miracles, His vicarious and atoning death, His resurrection from the dead, His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and His imminent, personal return in power and glory.

5.        We believe in the necessity of repentance and regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of the sinfulness of human nature, and that men are justified on the single ground of faith in the shed blood of Christ, and that only by God’s grace and through faith are we saved.     

6.        We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost - the saved to the resurrection of life and the lost to damnation.

7.        We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a Godly life.

Cooperation within the Body of Christ

                We have many denominations represented on our staff and in our student body, and we have experienced great unity at NHCS. We strive to place Jesus Christ as the focal point of all we do. We cannot compromise on the central doctrines of the Word of God.  We who belong to the body of believers have some differences that are peculiar to our churches or denominations.  When these issues are raised, we refer the student to his/her local church for guidance and for the answers.

Board of Directors
School Organization

                A Board of Directors governs New Hope Christian Schools, Inc., as set forth in its 1960 Articles of Incorporation. The Board of Directors, under God and in conformity to the Schools' Articles of Incorporation and to applicable civil law, is the determining body in all matters relating to itself and the Corporation. Its by-laws regulate all policies and ministries of the schools.

School Memberships

·   Association of Christian Schools  International (ACSI)

·   Oregon Federation of Independent Schools (OFIS)

·   Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA)

·   Several area sports leagues

·   Grants Pass/Josephine County Chamber of Commerce

 

We are registered with the Oregon Department of Education.

Admissions

Non-discrimination Policy

                NHCS admits without discrimi- nation, students of every race, sex, color, and national or ethnic origin, to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at this school.  NHCS reserves the right to select students on the basis of academic performance and personal qualifica- tions, including a willingness to cooperate with the goals of New Hope Christian Schools and to abide by its policies.

Parent Commitment/ Agreement

                Parents are asked to sign the following agreement upon registering their child(ren) in NHCS. This form is kept on file in the school office.

1.        We agree to cooperate fully with NHCS, with the Board of Directors, the Administration, and the Faculty, and to abide by NHCS's standards and guidelines.

2.        Payment of fees will be made according to the financial schedule, unless special arrangements were made beforehand. Whenever tuition payments become more than two months in arrears, parents may be requested to withdraw their child(ren) from school.

3.        We hereby invest authority in the school to discipline our child(ren) as necessary. We further agree that we will cooperate and discipline our child(ren) in the home as needed.

4.        We agree that if our child(ren) should become involved in a problem situation, we will in no case complain to other people not directly related to the problem, but with Christian love and prayer will register our concerns with the appropriate staff member.

5.        We agree to cooperate in keeping doctrine controversy and denominationalism out of the school at all times, "endeavoring to preserve the unity of the Spirit".

6.        We hereby give initial permission for our child(ren) to go on scheduled field trips and other school-sponsored activities.

7.        We will give our cooperation through

a.        practical volunteer help when possible

b.       prompt tuition and fee payments

c.        faithful prayer.

8.        We respect the school's right to dismiss any student who neither respects nor observes NHCS’s spiritual and/or behavioral standards, nor cooperates in its educational goals.

9.        We respect the school’s right to dismiss any student whose parent(s), as part of the essential contributing body, is not in cooperation with NHCS’s spiritual or educational goals, or who does not fully support the school.

10.     In case of emergency and we cannot be reached, we give the school our permission to call our family doctor or to seek other necessary medical help.

11.     I am in agreement with the school’s spiritual goals that each child be challenged to place his/her trust in, and obedience to, the Lord Jesus Christ: _____Yes    _____No

I am regular in church attendance:_____Yes    _____No

I will uphold the standards of the school: _____Yes    _____No

Handbook Change Policy

NHCS’s administration reserves the right to change the policies in this handbook without notification. All changes will be posted on our website.  Please check out our website for the most recent handbook updates.

Acceptance Guidelines

        Students applying to NHCS must be academically capable of being educated at NHCS. They must show through formal or informal tests, prior grades, and other recommendations that they can perform within the scope of our academic offerings.

Behavior

        Students who have had behavior problems in other schools must first give evidence of having solved the problems before admission into NHCS.  Success is attained only when students seek to maintain a positive attitude toward the school, their teachers, and fellow students.

Application Process

The enrollment process includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1.        Submission of completed application forms and application fee. Application fees are non-refundable.

2.        Entrance testing will be given to all applicants.

3.        Parent/student interview with a member of the administration committee to insure that:

a.        As a general rule, at least one parent expresses a clear testimony of Christian faith.  In the case of an older student, his/her testimony is sufficient.

b.       The parents desire a Christian education for their child.

c.        Family beliefs and practices are consistent with the standards, doctrine, and values of the school.

d.       The child expresses a desire to attend NHCS and agrees to live in harmony with school standards.

4.        The interview is a time for staff member, parents, and students to get acquainted and to ask and answer a multitude of questions.  With the interview, a tour of the school facilities may be conducted if the parents have not already seen the classrooms, gym, etc.

5.        The parents will be informed by letter or by phone of the administrative committee's decision on the applicant's acceptance. 

6.        Accepted students must have their files complete and accounts current in order to begin school. All students must have immunization forms submitted for school files.

Registration Fee

                Registration is finalized after acceptance and after the registration fee has been paid. This fee is nonrefundable after an acceptance agreement has been made.

Re-enrollment & Enrollment

                The first two weeks of the enrollment period (usually in February) are reserved for re-enrollment of current NHCS students. Students are not automatically re-enrolled for the next school year. A re-enrollment application form must be filled out and accompanied with registration payment.  ALL school debts must have been cleared, and account kept current through the end of the school year. The student must be approved by the school if there is any question regarding ability to be a growing and productive member of our school.

                Students who previously attended and are returning to NHCS must fill out the new student application forms. They will be interviewed and may be required to be tested.

Waiting List

                Once a maximum number of students have been enrolled for a class, a waiting list will be started. With parental and administrative agreement, students on the waiting list may be assigned to the SOT (School of Tomorrow) program.

Instructional Program

Bible Text

                Any conservative, evangelical-approved translation may be used; however, no paraphrases. Administra-tion has the final approval of the text.

Prayer

                Students are trained in the habit of prayer throughout the school day- before beginning the responsibilities of each day, before eating lunch, for special needs, and to give Him praise for all things. Students are encouraged to make their requests known before God.

Bible Memorization

                Bible memorization is another key to Christian strength; therefore, passages are assigned to students in all grade levels. 

Chapel

                The junior high and high school students will have chapel on alternating weeks. Guest speakers, including youth pastors, missionaries, singing and drama groups, pastors, other church personnel, school personnel, students, and Christian videos contribute to our chapel services.  We encourage parents to attend chapel services.

Curriculum

                The Scriptures are central to our curriculum. Our purpose is to direct young people to the Lord Jesus Christ and to His fulfilling style of life through the Scriptures and supporting materials.     We make extensive use of both

ABeka and Bob Jones texts. These enable teaching from a traditional method. The School Of Tomorrow (SOT) and Switched On Schoolhouse (SOS) curricula/programs supplement the traditional style NHCS program by offering individualized courses at levels designed to meet specific needs of individual students.

                In order to insure an adequate and credible academic program for all of our students, the following course requirements have been established:

Grades 7 & 8

Bible

Electives

                Keyboarding        

                Computer I

                Strings

                Band

                Choir

                Art

                Vocational Skills

English

                Spelling

                Composition

                Grammar

                Literature

                Handwriting

Mathematics

                Basic Math

                7th Grade Math

                Pre-Algebra

Remedial/advanced math classes also available through Math Lab

Physical Education

Science

                Life

                Earth

Social Studies

                World History and Geography

                American History and Geography

Grades 9-12

NHCS offers a Basic Skills Diploma, a General Diploma, and a College Prep Diploma. Subjects may be taken in either traditional classes or in equivalent SOT/SOS classes. Requirements for each of these are as follows:

Basic Skills Diploma

Most credits from non high school level courses

                                                         Credits

Bible................................................... 4 *1

English.............................................. 4 *

Math.................................................. 3 *

Social Studies................................... 4 *

Science...............................................2-4

Keyboarding..................................... 1 2

Word Building.................................. 2

Physical Education.......................... 1 5

Health................................................ 1

Elective Classes............................... 1-4

Minimum for Graduation…...…...26

General Diploma

Credits for core classes taken through our SOT/SOS programs must be at the 1073 level or above.

                                                           Credits

Bible...................................................... 4 1

English.................................................. 4

Math..................................................... 3

Social Studies…........………………...3-4

Science……………..………….......….2-4

Health................................................... 1

Keyboarding........................................ 1 2

Physical Education............................. 1 5

Foreign Language….......…………….1-2 3

Elective Classes………….......………3-4

Minimum for Graduation……..........26

College Prep Diploma

All required classes must be high school level.

                                                          Credits

Bible.................................................... 4 1

English................................................ 4

Math.................................................... 4

      Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II,

      and other math classes

Social Studies..................................... 3

      World History, U.S. History,

      and Geography

Science................................................3-4

      Physical Science, Biology,

      Chemistry, and/or Physics

Keyboarding..................................... 1 2

Physical Education.......................... 1 5

Foreign Language............................ 2 4

Elective Classes................................ 4

Minimum for Graduation…….......26

 

Notes:

* Credits at diagnosed level

1 One unit of Bible required for each year at NHCS

2 Keyboarding requirement may be met prior to the 9th grade w/o high school credit

3 Minimum of one year required; two years recommended

4 Two successive years in the same language required

5 Two sports in a school year will allow for one PE credit

NHCS Course Offerings

Courses may vary different years

Bible

                Apologetics

                Bible Study Methods

                Old Testament Survey

                New Testament Survey

                New Testament Church History

                Christian Growth

                Life of Christ

Science

                Physical Science

                Biology

                Chemistry

                Physics

English

                Word Building (Vocabulary)

                Basic English

                General English

                English I-IV

                American Literature

                British Literature

Mathematics

                Basic Math

                General Math

                Business Math

                Pre-Algebra

                Algebra I

                Geometry

                Algebra II

                Introduction to Trigonometry

                Pre-Calculus

Social Studies

                World Geography

                World History

                American Government

                Collectivism

                Constitution

                U.S. History

Health

Physical Education

Keyboarding

Electives

                Art I, II, III

                Band

                Beginning & Advanced Strings

                Choir

                Accounting

                Economics

                General Business

                Computer I, II

                Publications

                Spanish I, II, III

                French I, II

                Teacher Aide

                Technical Assistant

                Independent Study Classes

                Work Study Credit

                       ****

                Additional SOT Classes

                Additional SOS Classes

                Distance Education College Courses

Distance Education College Courses

                Distance education college courses are offered in cooperation with community colleges in the Oregon Community College Distance Education Consortium (OCCDEC). Courses are also available from Prairie Bible College and Moody Bible College. Students taking college courses also receive high school credit.

Scheduling For Grades 7-12

                Students, parents, and counselors will annually work out the students' schedule of classes for the school year.

Change of Schedule

                Changes to a student’s schedule need to be made within the first two weeks of a semester. To request a class change, the student should obtain a change of class form from Mrs. Wilkinson (junior high) or Mr. Main (high school), acquire all necessary signatures, and return the form to the office. After the first two weeks of a semester, class withdrawals (except by a teacher’s request) will result in a grade of WF (withdrawal fail).

 

Academic Standard

                NHCS is committed to offering an education to those students willing to commit themselves to responsible academic achievement. The school maintains that it is possible, with few exceptions, for all students to maintain a grade average of 2.0. A student receiving less than a 2.0 GPA is considered to be on academic probation for the following quarter. The faculty and administration will review a student on probation for two successive quarters to determine if further action is necessary. Remedial work during summer school may be required for re-enrollment in the next academic year.

Academic Eligibility for Participation in Extracurricular Activities

                Students must have had a 2.0 GPA during the previous quarter and must maintain a 2.0 GPA and be passing in all classes during the current quarter to participate in activities representing NHCS. It is also necessary to be enrolled in a minimum of 5 classes in order to participate in OSAA sponsored activities. Failure to meet the OSAA standards may also make a person ineligible for the following semester.

                Coaches are responsible for helping to monitor the eligibility status of each participant on their teams. For traditional classes, this eligibility status may be checked by looking at mid-quarter progress reports and at the 9-week grade reports. In the SOT classes, the student's meeting or exceeding test dates is a must.

                If a student's GPA drops below 2.0, or if he/she receives an F, the student will not be eligible to participate in the extracurricular activity until obvious academic improvement is evident.

                Teachers are strongly discouraged from giving special tests or projects to students who are failing, in order to make them become eligible. However, if a teacher does provide special consideration for a failing student by means of a test, project, or class work, each member of the class is to have the option of participating in the work to better his or her grade.

                Ordinarily, students participating in extracurricular activities must be at school the entire day of the activity to be eligible to participate in the scheduled activity.

                Rare exceptions to the NHCS eligibility policy may be made if the principal, the coach, and the parents agree that such an exception would be in the best interest of the student.

                Student Government leaders must maintain a 2.5 GPA with no failing grade. All students running for election to a student government position must have a 2.75 GPA for the two quarters preceding the election.

Target Test Dates for SOT & SOS

PACES must be completed and passed by the following in order to participate in extra-curricular activities:

          SOT                                                               

    Pace # -- Date         

      1....... Sept.  24

      2....... Oct.     15

      3....... Nov.     1

      4....... Nov.   29

      5....... Dec.    19

      6....... Jan.     24

      7....... Feb.    14

      8....... Mar.      6

      9....... Apr.      3

    10....... Apr.    24

    11....... May    13

    12....... June      5

Media Center/Library Guidelines

The library is available to all students throughout the week. Library hours are 7:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. We encourage all students and staff to make full use of the library. The library is a place for quiet selection of books, for study, or for reading. Limited conversation is allowed but must be quiet and non-disturbing.

Books may be checked out for two weeks and can be renewed for one additional week.

Overdue library/media items: If library/media items are not returned, the student will be unable to check out any other library/media item until the overdue item(s) are returned and fines are paid. Fines are 25 cents a day, up to the value of the item, beginning the day after the item is due.

The late fee for reference material and periodicals is 50 cents per day. If late the second day, the student will receive a CAN.

Books used in the library, but not checked out, must be returned to the designated location for replacement on the shelves.

                Books may only be checked out through the librarian or library assistant.

Achievement Tests

                The Stanford Achievement Test is administered to all students through the 11th grade. The PSAT, SAT, and ACT tests are college entrance tests which we encourage high school students to take.

Grading

                Grading is based on the following letter grades and corresponding percentages:

                A             90  - 100   Superior
                B             80  -   89   Above average
                C             70  -   79   Average
                D             60  -   69   Below average
                F                0  -   59   Failure

(Effort and conduct codes are also on the report cards.)

Honor Roll

                Students in grades 7-12, who achieve a grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher on all subjects at grade level or higher, will be on the Honor Roll. Students achieving a GPA of 3.0 to 3.49 will be on the Honorable Mention list if they have received no Ds, or Fs. A student's GPA is computed by adding his or her grade points (A = 4 points; B = 3 points; C = 2 points; D = 1 point; F & I = 0 points) for each subject and dividing by the number of subjects. The college preparatory high school courses (Chemistry, Physics, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry) and DECC courses are given additional weight when GPAs are calculated.

Principal’s List

                Students who are on the Honor Roll (3.5 or higher all 4 quarters of the school year with all subjects at grade level or higher) will be on the end-of-the-year Principal’s List.

Student Commendation Letters

                In order to encourage students, teachers are asked to write commendation letters.  

Student Planners

                Students will be given a one-year planner which will be used daily throughout the year. Replacement planners will incur a $6 charge.

Failing of Classes

7th and 8th graders earning an F in any subject must make up that subject either through SOT summer school OR by repeating the class the next year, while maintaining a regular schedule. If at the end of a quarter, a student may be moved into SOT to make up the failed class.

9th-12th graders earning an F in any subject must make up that subject to receive credit.

1.        If at end of the 1st semester, the student must be moved into SOT to make up the full semester of credit.

2.        If at end of the year, the student must take summer school to make up credit work. If the student cannot do summer school, he/she must take the class over again the next year, either in SOT or in traditional class.

Summer School

                Students who fail to meet the standards listed below may be expected to take summer school for entry or for re-entry into NHCS. Those who fail to meet the standards will be expected to participate in a student, parent, and staff conference to determine the need and workability of summer school.

1.        Over one year behind in a student's grade level

                     and/or

2.        GPA below 2.0 for a semester

Assignments

                Homework will be given in most classes to aid students to advance in their studies. Students are expected to have homework/assignments completed by the date due. When they are not turned in on time, a CAN will be given. Teachers may also require a student to spend extra time before school, at lunch, or after school to complete assignments. Late assignments are only accepted for prearranged absences such as athletic trips, dental/doctor appointments, family trips, retreats, etc., or for documented medical absence. Assignments will not be given to specifically be done during the Thanksgiving, Christmas, or spring break vacations.

Make-up Work

                Teachers will assist students in making up work. However, it is the student's responsibility to determine what work has been missed and to see that it is made up. They are to get assignments from EDLINE, classmates, or the office.

                When a student has obviously delayed or put off work in a traditional class, a grade of “0” will be given.

                Students are not permitted to miss regularly scheduled classes in order to do make-up work unless agreed to by both teachers. A student in SOT or the Math Lab will be required to attend extra study times either before school, during lunch, or after school.

                In traditional classes, no make-up will be accepted after the end of the quarter unless prior agreement was made between the student and teacher.

                Acceptable reasons will be unavoidable situations, such as extended illness.

                When feasible, make-up work must be done in advance of pre-planned absences. Scheduled tests and pre-assigned written projects shall be due on the date of the student's return to class. The teacher may grant added time when extenuating circumstances exist.

Report Cards

                Report cards are issued each 9-week quarter. Report cards may be withheld if school fees are not paid and proper arrangements have not been made.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

                We encourage frequent communica-tion between parents and teachers concerning students' school activities and progress. Appointments for special conferences with individual teachers are encouraged.

                Scheduled conferences with teachers are required following the end of the first and third quarters. Parents receive their children's report cards during these conferences. This time is set aside for sharing insights, encouragement, and for going over the report cards. This is also a time in which parents/teachers set some specific goals for the student.

Progress Reports

                Progress reports are available to all parents on EDLINE or from the office.  At mid-quarter, a print out of students’ progress will be sent home for parents to sign and return.

Transcript Request Policy

Requests for transcripts must be turned in at least three (3) days before they are needed.

The request must include the following information:

1.        Complete name and address of the school to which they are to be sent.

2.      The date that the transcript must be in your hand or at the school(s) to which they are being sent.

The first three (3) transcripts are free; after that they will cost $1.00 each.  The amount is to be paid at the time transcript is requested.

Written requests for overall accumulative GPAs or class rankings need to go to the Office Manager two days prior to the date needed.

Textbooks

                In most cases, textbooks are school property. They should be covered. Lost or excessively damaged books will result in a replacement fee charge.

            Students who withdraw from NHCS must check in all textbooks, both consumable and non-consumable. If, however, a parent wishes to purchase any of the consumable books, he/she may do so by making arrangements through the office. Depending on withdrawal date, consumable books will be sold to parents at the following rate:

1.        During the 1st quarter: total cost & handling charge for each book

2.        During the 2nd quarter: ¾ the cost & handling charge for each book

3.        During the 3rd quarter: ½ the cost & handling charge for each book

4.        During the 4th quarter: ¼ the cost & handling charge for each book

Student Record Files

                Records on each student are kept in the office. These permanent records include grades, health cards, testing results, school applications, and occasionally, examples of class work.  They may also include deficiency reports or disciplinary notices. These records are open to the parents of the individual student. Please call ahead if you wish to view these files.

Attendance

                Unless properly excused, students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and chapels. Punctuality and regularity in attendance are vital parts of education.

Class accountability for the traditional classes should be designed so that it is not possible to pass or to receive a high grade when excessive absences occur. On rare occasions when extenuating circumstances merit, the school may make modifications to our instructional program for the person with an extended absence.

Job Interviews

Students who interview for jobs during school hours will be allowed a maximum of two excused absences/ tardies per semester. These excused absences/tardies must be pre-arranged with an administrator and will be approved only after the administrator has received a written request from the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Excused Absences

                Parents should call the office early in the morning if a child will be absent.   Excused absences are granted for illness and for school-sponsored activities.

Unexcused Absences

                If it is determined that a student has been absent because of skipping school or cutting classes any time during school hours, the student will receive a “0” for all work missed. Skipping school may be sufficient reason for suspension or expulsion from New Hope Christian Schools.

Early Dismissals

                New Hope is a closed campus. No student will be permitted to leave the campus during school hours without first securing approval from the office and signing out properly. In the case of early dismissal, a written request signed by the parent or guardian must be brought. This note should include the time and reason and should be taken to the office before school begins on the day of dismissal. Whenever the student leaves school early, he/she must sign the Early Dismissal Log. If returning the same day, he/she must sign back in.

Tardiness

                A tardy student disrupts the teacher, his/her own learning, and that of the en- tire class. New Hope does not allow excused tardies unless accompanied with a note from a dentist/doctor. A student coming to school late is to go immediately to the office to sign in and receive a tardy pass before proceeding to class. Some teachers may not allow tardy students to make up quizzes or material missed. Therefore, it is essential that students be in their seats and prepared to work when the tardy bell rings.

A student not in the assigned seat with needed materials when the tardy bell rings will be sent to the office to receive a tardy pass. This policy applies to all classes throughout the day. Each student is allowed three unexcused tardies in a semester. For the fourth through the eighth tardies, the student will automatically serve community service. It will be served in the morning prior to school opening. If a Saturday community service is required, a $10 per hour service charge will be made to cover the expense of supervision. A “no show” earns serious discipline!

                 On the 9th tardy, the student will serve a two-day in-house suspension during which time the student will receive full credit for all assignments completed. Assignments are due at the end of the school day. A “0” will be earned for all assignments not completed.

                Students who are late to class because a staff member detained them will receive an excused tardy.

Hall Passes

                The student planner serves as a hall pass. Before leaving any classroom, the student must record his/her destination and time, and have it signed by the teacher.

Behavior and Conduct

  Christ-like character is the goal of Christian school education.

  Students are expected to keep boy/ girl relationships in good taste, on campus and at all school related events.  Students are allowed to hold hands on campus and at any school activity or function, EXCEPT during class and chapel, where attention needs to be         focused on the presenter.

  No harassment through physical contact between boys & girls is allowed, whether it is showing inappropriate affection, teasing or play.

  Radios, tape/CD/DVD players, beepers, electronic games, or any other distracting objects such as laser pointers are not permitted on the school buses, vans, or on campus, unless authorized by a teacher and an administrator.

  The music played on CDs and radios while on field trips or other school sponsored activities must be in compliance with the music policy of NHCS.

  For the safety of all at NHCS, the following objects are forbidden on campus and at school activities: knives, guns, matches, fireworks, and any other object that falls into the category of a weapon. Disregard for this rule will lead to serious discipline and could bring expulsion from NHCS.

In addition:

1.        Skateboards, inline skates, and roller blades are not to be used on campus.

2.        No running on the breezeway.

3.        Bicycles are not to be ridden on the breezeway or down the steps.  During the school day, bicycles should be parked in the bicycle stand. 

Further:           

1.    Students are to refrain from using language unbecoming to a Christian.

2.    Alcohol, tobacco, or any other non-prescribed drug is not permitted. As citizens, it is also understood that students are to submit to and obey all civil laws.

3.    No gum chewing is allowed at school.

  Authority for training and education is a parental responsibility. Parents enrolling their children in the school invest authority in the school to discipline their child(ren) whenever necessary (corporal punishments is not used). All staff and faculty members have authority to discipline any student when necessary.

  Do not take that which does not belong to you; any taking of any item that’s not yours without the permission of the owner will be regarded as stealing and will be dealt with accordingly.

Discipline Procedures

Corrective Action Notice

CAN’s are given for behavior such as talking without permission, incomplete assignments, gum chewing, etc. A CAN may require the student to report to SOT for lunch detention where the student can work on any deficient area of studies. The CAN must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the office before 1st period the next day. Students failing to come in for detention will be required to report for an additional lunch period and/or community service before school. Service not performed will be doubled or will result in more serious discipline.

Note: 4 CANs = 1 Conduct Referral

Conduct Referrals

Conduct referrals (pink slips) are given for behaviors such as willful defiance, foul language, attitude problems, repeated offenses, etc. Discipline for conduct referrals could include extra writing assignments, community service, suspension, etc.

                The original pink copy of a conduct referral is sent home with the student for the parent's acknowledgment of the infraction and for a parental signature.  The signed pink copy is returned to the office before first period the next day. Failure to return it on time will result in a CAN and more serious consequences.

Consequences

                Three conduct referrals within one quarter require a parent conference to discuss consequences of continued inappropriate behavior:

1.        Ineligibility for field trips and reward trips

2.        Ineligibility for sports

3.        Ineligibility to represent the school

4.        Ineligibility to be in student government

Five conduct referrals within one quarter will result in a 5-day at-home suspension. Credit will be given for assignments/tests missed and turned in on the day the student returns to school.  A zero will be given for work not turned in at that time.

                Seven conduct referrals within one quarter may result in expulsion.          Discipline, given in love and received with humility, does produce the "peaceable fruit of righteousness to them which are exercised thereby."

(Heb.12:11)

Suspension

                The school has, at all times, the authority to suspend a student. The reasons which could give cause for suspension are:

1.        Deliberate disobedience/disrespect

2.        A rebellious spirit which is unchanged after effort by the school staff

3.        A continued negative attitude and/or bad influence upon other students

4.        A serious breach of conduct on or off the school grounds, which may have an adverse effect upon fellow students or upon the purpose of the school

Expulsion

A student may be expelled from school for the following:

1.   A serious breach of conduct and/or repeated problems with behavior or academic performance.

2.   Failure of the parent to be in accord with the disciplinary procedures or policies and running of the school.

Procedure:

1.        In the case of such an offense, the matter will be referred to the administrative committee of NHCS, which makes determination of expulsion.

2.        An expelled student may request an appeal to the Board of Directors through the administration.

3.        During the time of review, the student(s) will be under suspension from school.

Sexual Harassment of Employees or Students

                NHCS is committed to maintaining an environment where all individuals treat each other with dignity and respect and which is free from all forms of intimidation, exploitation, and harassment, including sexual harassment. The school will take action to prevent and correct any violations of this policy. Anyone, staff or student, who violates this policy, will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination or expulsion. The school shall maintain a record of reported instances of sexual harassment.

                Sexual harassment is unwanted verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Examples of conduct that would violate this policy would include:

1.        Unwanted sexual advances or propositions

2.        Making or threatening reprisals after a negative response to sexual advance

3.        Visual conduct such as leering, making sexual gestures, displaying suggestive objects or pictures

4.        Verbal conduct such as making and using derogatory comments, slurs, and jokes

5.        Verbal abuse of a sexual nature, including suggestive or obscene letters, notes, or invitations

6.        Physical conduct such as touching, assaulting, or blocking movements

Students and staff who experience harassment are encouraged to promptly report the matter to the school administration. Students and staff who observe conduct of a sexually harassing nature must report the matter to school officials. All complaints must be promptly investigated.        

Complaints / Concerns

                 NHCS views parents as not only having the right to share concerns, but as having a responsibility to share them. We desire and encourage parents to give constructive feedback. We expect parents and students to follow the principle of Matthew 18:15-16. The appropriate levels of communication are as follows:

1.        Student and/or parent with person concerned

2.        Student, parent, and the person concerned with the vice principal

3.        The above people with the administrator

4.        The above people with the school board

Spectators at Sports Events

1.        Courtesy and thoughtfulness are always essential.

2.        Students, including elementary school children, must be in the gym or on the field supporting our teams. No loitering or playing around on the school grounds or in restrooms is allowed.

3.        The court is reserved for team players except when spectators take part in a half-time Pepsi shoot-out. (OSAA rules also require that the court be reserved for players.)

4.        Children should not play under the bleachers nor go into the locker rooms.

5.        Cars should be parked in the lower parking lot or on the hillside south of the school.

Dress Code and Grooming

                PARENTS are responsible to see that their student is appropriately dressed when leaving for school and for all school activities.

                Dress that draws attention to and/or accentuates physical features or distracts from the general learning environment may not be worn, regard-less of trends or fashion. As we train our young people, may their fashion reflect the Lord who is in their heart.

The intent of the following rules is to provide a guideline and to encourage students to develop modesty and neatness in personal appearance. We believe it is proper for girls to look feminine and boys to look masculine.

Guidelines for all Students

Please dress neatly and modestly.  “When in doubt, don’t” is a good rule of thumb to use when deciding if a particular outfit is acceptable for school. 

                Student dress at all school sponsored activities (including games, class fund-raisers, fair booths, Harvest Festival, auction, graduation, banquet, etc.) must comply with our school dress and grooming standards.

 It is essential that parents, students, and staff realize that, in any activity, the dress and behavior of a particular group represent not only that group but the entire New Hope school family as well.

 

    NO:   

1.        Body piercing jewelry other than earrings for young ladies

2.        Radical hair styles (dyed or bleached hair must remain within natural hair colors)

3.        Tight-fitting clothing

4.        Clothing that reveals the midriff or back

5.        Low necklines. Shirts unbuttoned past the second button

6.        Sloppy or oversized attire such as “dropped crotch”, pants worn below the waistline, untucked shirts that are intended to be tucked in

7.        Worn-out clothes with holes or ragged edges. All attire must be neat and clean and not patched, frayed, baggy, unhemmed, badly faded, painted, or have other permanent stains.

8.        Clothing that reveals the undergarments should not be worn.  Undergarments should not be exposed in any manner.

9.        Flannel/lounge-wear, pajama-type apparel, or camouflage (any color) shirts or pants

10.     Clothing or accessories with inappropriate logos, designs, letter and/or pictures not in keeping with school principles

The school reserves the right of final judgment regarding proper dress.

Guidelines for Young Ladies

Tops must be modest with no cleavage showing and no midriff or back showing in normal standing, sitting or walking positions. When top is in question, the girl will be referred to the Dean of Girls’ Dress for dress inspection. She will check to see if the student’s back or midriff is showing WHEN ARMS ARE RAISED ABOVE HEAD.

1.        Proper undergarments should be worn so that clothing cannot be “seen through”.

2.        Hemlines of skirts and dresses must come within 2 inches of knee cap.

3.        Makeup should be conservative, not extreme.

4.        Sleeveless tops must cover most of the shoulders (2-inch minimum).

5.        There should be no layering of tops with sport bra inappropriately showing.

6.        Banquet and other events where formal attire is worn: Modesty is very important. Absolutely NO cleavage showing; necklines must NOT be lower than one hand-breadth below the clavicle. NO strapless or single-strap dresses allowed. (Spaghetti straps over both shoulders are allowed.)

Guidelines for Young Men

1.        No tank tops or sleeveless shirts, except when worn as undershirts.  Shirts worn over tank tops must be buttoned up.

2.        No earrings at any school sponsored activity

3.        No radical hair styles such as braids or ponytails. Hair must be clean, neatly trimmed, well groomed (not scraggly-looking), not touching the collar nor covering the eyes. (If the hair has to be constantly pushed away from the eyes, it is too long in front.) Hair may cover the ears only if it looks neat and trim and is of appropriate length.

4.        No hats are to be worn in the class-rooms, offices, or during chapel.

5.        On dress-up occasions, ties must be worn properly, not loosely wrapped around the neck. Dress shirts are buttoned all the way down and are designed to be tucked in.

All School Sponsored Events

If a student is not in compliance with NH dress code, the teacher in charge will require the student to change or not allow him/her to participate.

Extracurricular Dress

Students participating in extra- curricular activities are to dress “a cut above the average.”

Walking Shorts

                Walking shorts (no sports shorts, swim shorts, board shorts, etc.) may be worn. Students may wear modest plaid walking shorts or any solid color except the bright neon colors. Walking shorts must come within 2 inches of the knee cap.

Inappropriate Attire

If a student’s attire is not appropriate, the student will be given a CAN for dress code violation and will be required to change into appropriate attire. The student will be sent to the office to remain there until acceptable clothing is available. Academic classes missed in such cases are counted as unexcused absences. Chronic offenders will be sent home to change. 

Body Tattooing

NHCS does not affirm the present trend of body tattooing. However, we also realize that tattoos are permanent fixtures that cannot be easily removed.  Therefore, any student or staff with a tattoo must have it covered at all times at school and at any school sponsored event. Athletes will be required to wear whatever clothing it takes to cover the tattoo during practice and competition.

Dress for Parent Helpers and Other Volunteers

                Helpers at any NH activity/event should be observant of the NHCS student code for dress and conduct. They should seek to be in compliance as much as possible, if not a “cut above”.

I Tim. 4:12, "... but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

Fire/Earthquake Drills

                Fire drills are conducted each month. Earthquake drills are required twice a year. From any area of the school facility, students will learn to quietly and safely evacuate when required. Evacuation plan drawings and guidelines are posted in every classroom.

Health Services

Health Care

                Oregon's Compulsory School Immunization Law requires that school children be immunized. The proper immunization forms must be on file in the school office.

Blood-borne Pathogens

                All body-fluid spills, such as blood, must always be treated as potential Hepatitis B or HIV contaminants. In no case is a student allowed to continue playing until all body-fluid spills have been eliminated.

                All body-fluid spills must be cleaned up using one of the blood-spill kits located in each classroom and in every school vehicle. The law mandates the use of gloves and following of all instructions in the kit.

Illness

                The control of communicable disease is imperative to the health and education of every child and family.  Illnesses most frequently found in schools are chicken pox, strep throat, colds, flu, measles, mumps.  Student should be kept at home if he/she:

1.        Lacks energy and appears overly tired or sleepy.

2.        Shows any symptom of a communicable disease, such as flu, measles, whooping cough, scarlet fever, pink eye, etc.

3.        Has a rash that has not been identified.

4.        Is running a fever.

Due to the danger of spreading an illness, your child may be sent home if he/she has a fever or displays any of the other symptoms listed above. The sick child who is recovering should remain home 24 hours after his/her temperature returns to normal.

Medicines

                Only medicines in the original containers with expiration dates and dosage instructions, and accompanied by a Request to Dispense form (available in the school office), will be dispensed to students. These must be brought by a parent to the office to be placed in the locked medicine file. No other medicines will be dispensed, even if requested by phone or written note from parents. No medicines can be kept with the students in lockers, backpacks, purses, etc., unless the student and parent have completed and signed the NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STUDENT SELF-MEDICATION AGREEMENT. The student is permitted to have a one-day-only dosage in hand. 

Medical Appointments

                If it is necessary for a child to leave early for a medical appointment, a written request should be sent to the office in advance. No child will be released to anyone other than a parent or someone authorized in writing by the parent.  

Insurance

Student Insurance

                NHCS carries limited medical coverage for all daytime activities, field trips, and sports. Additional student insurance is an option for parents to purchase.

Carpool Insurance

                Families cooperating in a carpool arrangement are encouraged to review their coverage on occupants. Signifi-cant increases in coverage might be made at a nominal cost.

AHERA - Asbestos

(AHERA refers to rules regarding asbestos located in school-building materials.)

                Our school seeks to be in compliance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act. During the normal business hours, you may view the school AHERA management plan located in our main office.

Miscellaneous

Communications Home

                The Envelope System is an effort to get communications home. A large envelope is used for each family.  Weekly newsletters, monthly statements, bulletins, and other notes will be sent home in this envelope on Thursdays. The oldest student in a family is responsible for taking the envelope home, seeing that parents note the contents and sign the envelope, and returning the empty envelope the next school day to his/her first period class. The school office will record that the envelope is back and will file the envelope for the next use. A $5 charge will be made to replace each envelope not properly returned.

Computer-use Policy

                Any use of the school network or internet is for school purposes only.  This includes all computers on campus as well as personal laptops. Using the school network or internet for personal or entertainment purposes without approval or permission is prohibited. A user of the network will be held accountable for the use of the computer, including any use of it by someone else using his/her password. Inappropriate use can result in restriction or cancellation of access privileges, in addition to disciplinary and possible legal action. The full policy can be viewed on the NHCS website.

2006-07 Graduation Director

Mrs. Natalie Reebel

Senior Class Responsibilities

                Available in a separate handout obtained from the Graduation Director.

Lockers

                Students will be issued a locker. Lockers are school property. A $10 clean-up fee will be charged to anyone who writes on, or places stickers, posters, etc., on his/her locker. Lockers may be checked periodically.

Lost and Found

                Massive amounts of lost and found articles accumulate. Parents are encouraged to label ALL items of clothing.

Lunch Program

                Most students bring sack lunches.  Mrs. Gretchen York is in charge of lunches prepared and served by the school.

Student Work Off Campus

                Employment outside of school is usually a BIG hindrance to academic excellence. Parents are encouraged to carefully monitor this area.

Social Activities

                All school sponsored activities must have school designated chaperones covering throughout the course of the event. The school assumes no responsibility for students after the activity is over. Transportation must be arranged by the home.

                At all school sponsored activities, students and chaperones must maintain the school dress standard.

Homecoming

                Nominees for Homecoming princes and princesses must be approved by the administration. Students who have been suspended during the school year are not eligible.

High School Banquet

                Student Government is responsible for planning a quality banquet program that lasts from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. and for cleanup after the program.

                All students, guests, and chaperones must sign a contract, available from the Student Government President, before attending the high school banquet. The contract includes dress guidelines for girls and women, hair styles for boys and men, no wearing of earrings for guys, etc. Students who have been expelled from NHCS or on suspension at the time of the banquet will not be allowed to attend, even as guests.

Eighth Grade Dinner

                An eighth grade dinner program may be held near the end of the year.  All parts of the program planning must go through review by an administrator. Parents are responsible for doing the organizing footwork. Additional aspects of the program:

1.        All NHCS eighth grade students invited

2.        Parents of eighth grade students invited - some usually attend

3.        Focus made on continuation of education at NHCS to the end of their high school career

An administrator and spouse (if married) must be present at the high school banquet and the eighth grade dinner.

Class Funds

                On occasion, classes are permitted to earn money for class projects and field study trips. For liability reasons, these class funds cannot be used for non-school sponsored events such as a post graduation trip that seniors often take. To avoid the school’s liability for non-school sponsored events, all fundraising must be done separately from the school.

                The class representative delivers all class funds to the school bookkeeper.  The class representative is also responsible for keeping good written records of receipts and expenditures.  Withdrawals should be requested in writing two days in advance of withdrawal. Purpose of withdrawal must be in written form.

Transportation

Bus

                The school buses are used for a daily route, field trips, and sports events.

Student Driver Policy

                For insurance reasons, we do not allow students to leave with other student drivers during school hours or to go with student drivers to school activities unless written permission from the parent is given (24 hrs. ahead of time), as well as approval by the administration. Student drivers are also required to observe state laws. 

Field Trips and Retreats

                Field trips and retreats are related to students' course of learning. In addition to the permission given on application forms, parents will be required to give their children written permission to participate in all individual field trip activities. Forms to be signed will be sent home to the parents.

                Parent volunteers are always welcome to assist with field trips. We appreciate the help of parents in supplying transportation when needed.

School Facilities

Closed Campus

                NHCS is a closed campus. Students are not permitted to leave the campus during school hours (for doctor appointments, etc.) without written permission (phone calls should rarely be used) from parents or guardians.                  Seniors may occasionally leave for lunch, with parent and office permis- sion.  They must return in time for 5th period class.

                Seniors who leave early due to less than 7 scheduled classes need to attend chapels and class meetings.

     After checking out and leaving campus, they may not return until after school hours (unless permission obtained from the office).

     The parking lots are off limits for students except for their arrival to and departure from school. Closed campus also means that students may not have friends visit them during school hours.  Exception:  Friends may come during lunch if he office has been given a 24-hour notice.

Visitors

                All visitors must obtain a pass from the school office before visiting students or classes.

Adult visitors are welcome at the school. We would appreciate a call ahead of time indicating which class you wish to visit.

Parents and youth pastors/church workers are encouraged to eat lunch with students on campus and within the normal lunchtime period.

                Student visitors may come with their parents or may come with NHCS students ONLY when permission has been granted ahead of time by parents and the school office (at least one day).  Acceptance of student visitors is usually only allowed when it is a legitimate inquiry into possible future attendance at NHCS. 

School Hours

Grades 7-12          8:00 – 3:10  

Safety Issues

                Students who arrive at school more than 30 minutes prior to their first class must report to SOT immediately.                

Use the Hidden Valley Road park-ing lots when bringing children to school/picking them up after school.

Keep breezeways and other exits/fire lanes clear of all bags and other obstructions.

Office

                The school office hours are from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please feel free to drop by if you have any questions.  We will be glad to arrange appoint-

ments for parents with a member of the administration or a teacher. If you need to get a message, PE clothes, lunch, etc., to your child, please contact the office. A secretary will assist in this matter.

                When picking up a student during school hours for the purpose of doctor’s appointments, etc., parents or guardians are asked to send a notice to the office.  At the time of pickup, the student may come to the office to sign out.

Business Office

                The business office, located at the edge of the upper parking lot, is open each day from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  The business manager will answer any of your finance questions. You may turn in fee payments at the main office or in the slot in the business office counter.

Pay/Office Phone

                The office phone may be used by students ONLY if school schedules are changed. If a student is sent to the office because of illness, a secretary will phone the parents.

                 If parents wish to talk with a teacher, please call the office and leave a message. The teacher will call the parent at his/her earliest convenience.  All teachers have e-mail addresses in the Family Directory—a quicker, easier way to communicate with them.

Cell Phones

            Cell phones are to be kept TURNED OFF in classrooms, offices, and chapel. Inappropriate use of cell phones on campus will result in phone being held in office until a parent comes to get it.

Weather - School Closing

                School is closed on occasion if the weather is extremely inclement. KAJO (AM-1270) will carry the announce-ment in the event of such closure.

School Improvement

Gifts

                NHCS functions financially as the Lord blesses. Each year a sizable portion of our operating budget is from freewill giving by parents, staff, and supporters of the school.

           &nbs