ST. STEPHENS LUTHERAN SCHOOL "Touching Lives Forever" 2304 SPRINGS ROAD HICKORY, NORTH CAROLINA 28601 PHONE: 828-256-2166 FAX: 828-256-7994 E-MAIL: sslsms@charter.net Web site: www.sslswarriors.org STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK 2008-2009 INTRODUCTION St. Stephens Lutheran School was started in 1943 in order to offer a Christian education to children of St. Stephens Lutheran Church. Over the years, many changes have occurred in curriculum, personnel, and the physical plant; however, the initial goal remains the same, to offer a quality, well-rounded, Christian education to the children of the congregation as well as to children of the Hickory community. St. Stephens Lutheran School is one of over 2500 Lutheran schools in the United States. Lutheran schools range from pre-school programs to colleges and seminaries. Many teachers in Lutheran schools, as well as here at St. Stephens, were trained in colleges operated by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The educational program at St. Stephens Lutheran School includes a North Carolina rated Five Star Preschool for children ages three and four. The school includes grades Kindergarten through grade eight. St. Stephens Lutheran School is accredited by the National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA) as well as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS-CASI). St. Stephens Lutheran School was named a Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education in 2003. St. Stephens Lutheran School is operated by St. Stephens Lutheran Church as an educational arm of the congregation. A School Board oversees the policies and personnel of the school. THE PHILOSOPHY OF ST. STEPHENS LUTHERAN SCHOOL God's word teaches us, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6. At St. Stephens Lutheran Church and School, we take very seriously God's command to "Go therefore and teach all nations..." Matthew 28:19. And “Feed my lambs." John 21:15. St. Stephens Lutheran Church and School believe that each person is justified by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. St. Stephens Lutheran School strives to foster in each child an understanding of being a redeemed and loved child of God. We believe that each child is blessed with specific abilities for personal growth, discipleship, and Christian leadership. The school, as a ministry of the congregation, seeks to assist families In Christian education. All education is Christ-centered with a strong commitment to the Lord, to academic excellence, and a value system grounded in Christian principles as defined by Lutheran doctrine. The school environment exemplifies a Christian community, which evidences the love of God. GOALS St. Stephens Lutheran School acknowledges the importance of children understanding the components of a quality life, including faith, integrity, truth, trust, and self-reliance. As such, the following goals are presented in evidence of the school's commitment in supporting each child's development. 1. The spiritual development of the child includes growth in knowledge and faith of the Triune God. Children will be exposed to and taught the history and heritage of the Christian Church and the Lutheran faith. 2. The intellectual development of the child includes growth in academic areas including the advancement of critical thinking skills, effective communication, and interpersonal skills. 3. The social development of the child Includes growth in one's ability to live in society as a responsible citizen, interacting positively with others, identifying and accepting responsibility, understanding peer pressure, and growing in the areas of discernment, leadership, and citizenship. 4. The physical development of a child includes the understanding of the human body, appropriate nutrition, physical activity, and maintenance of good health. 5. The emotional development of a child includes understanding feelings and emotions and developing self-control. 6. The aesthetic development of a child includes growth in the appreciation and application of the beauty in nature in the areas of art, music, and drama. Home-School Relationships The faculty wishes to work with children and parents who are willing to walk with us in ONENESS of spirit and purpose. The home is and always will be the chief agency for the Christian education of the child. The purpose of our school is to serve as an important aid to and extension of the home in the vital work of Christian education. If the home and school are both CHRIST-CENTERED, the child is receiving the best education he or she can receive anywhere. To maintain open communication and deal with concerns, parents and students are encouraged to: 1. First, contact the teacher to discuss the concerns. 2. If the concern is not resolved with the teacher, then contact the principal or assistant principal for assistance. 3. Should the previous steps fail; the principal or assistant principal and pastor will arrange a meeting of all persons involved. Medication Any student needing to take any type of medication during school hours must present a written note from their parents to the homeroom teacher requesting that the medication be administered. All medication is to be turned in to the school office personnel who will be responsible for distribution and records. SSLS Regulation for Classrooms Individual classroom teachers will have their own set of guidelines for their classroom. All of the teachers will be concerned with teaching self-control, responsibility, organization, time-management, and Christian attitudes. The following are guidelines for positive behavior for all students: 1. Use time wisely. 2. Raise hand for permission to speak or to leave seat. 3. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself. 4. Be courteous and respectful of others in all public areas. 5. Dress appropriately. 6. No gum chewing, eating, or drinking in class except for special occasions. 7. Be prepared. 8. Think positively. All of the teachers honor the Star Card Program whereby each student has a Star Card, which may be marked for rule infractions. STUDENT LIFE Appearance & Dress code ST. STEPHENS LUTHERAN SCHOOL STUDENT DRESS CODE (Revised 2005) Appearance and Dress Code As a Christian community, our school encourages and expects proper speech, dress and manners from its students. We strive to project a distinctive and positive image to each other and to the community. The purpose of these guidelines is to set a standard of acceptable dress and grooming for SSLS students. Our goal is to maintain an atmosphere conducive to serious educational pursuits. Within the limits of these guidelines, students have the opportunity to express themselves as unique creations of God through various styles of dress and grooming. Shirts Students are to wear short or long sleeved shirts that zip, button or snap at the neck with a turned down collar in solid colors only, no stripes. Shirts are to be tucked in at all times. The logo on the shirt can only be the size of a quarter. Turtlenecks are allowed, long or short sleeved-solid colored, with collars close to the neck. Pants Fitted, full elastic at the waist, or elastic at the back or tailored slacks with a plain waist in khaki, cotton twill, denim or corduroy material in tan or blue colors are allowed. Pants with belt loops must have a belt worn with them. Pants are to be worn at the natural waistline and should fit the person, not baggy or tight. Pants may have two side, back or waist pockets, but no pockets on the leg. Straight legged or boot cut jeans, evenly colored blue with no more than five pockets at the waist are acceptable. Pants are to have no decorations on them. Minimal single colored stitching, related to the maker's logo, is allowed on the back pockets of pants. All stitching is to be the same color as the main stitching for the pants. Capri pants are allowed and are to be worn at mid-calf. Cargo, carpenter or stretch pants are not acceptable. Shorts/Skorts Fitted, full elastic at the waist, or elastic at the back or tailored shorts with a plain waist in khaki, cotton twill, denim or corduroy material in tan or blue colors. Shorts or skorts with belt loops must have a belt worn with them. Shorts or skorts are to be worn at the natural waistline and should fit the person, not baggy or tight. The length of shorts or skorts should be mid-thigh. Shorts or skorts may have two side, back or waist pockets, but no pockets on the legs. Cargo, carpenter or stretch shorts/skorts are not acceptable. Skirts/Jumpers/Dresses Girls may choose skirts, jumpers or dresses in khaki or blue color made of khaki, cotton twill, denim or corduroy material. They may have two pockets in the front. The length of skirts, jumpers and dresses should be worn at mid-thigh. Dresses are to be a solid color only, with a collar, along with a zipper, snaps or buttons at the neck. A logo on a dress cannot be any larger than the size of a quarter. Sweatshirts, Sweaters and Jackets Cardigan sweaters, crewneck pullover sweaters, V-neck pullover sweaters and cardigan sweater vests, as wells as sweatshirts are permitted in solid colors only, no stripes. SSLS sweatshirts are allowed, both hooded and pullover. Lightweight jackets, unlined with sleeves, are permitted in solid colors only, no stripes or decorations. Leather and vinyl jackets are not to be worn in the classroom. Belts Belts must be worn with loop pants, shorts and skorts. Belts may be leather, woven or plastic in blue, khaki, brown, black or multi-colored. Belts must fit under the loops, with nothing hanging from the ends, or have any decoration. Shoes Shoes need to be safe protection for all types of school activities. Casual or athletic shoes must be worn with no more than a 2" heel. Socks or footies are to be worn with shoes. Shoes with laces or Velcro must be fastened at all times. Shoes are not to be open-toed or backless, with the entire heel of the foot being covered. Tights Girls can wear tights or pantyhose, which are solid, colored and coordinated with their outfit. Outerwear Outerwear, including heavyweight fleece coats and jackets, are not to be worn in the classroom. Dress code attire is to be worn under outerwear. Sports Teams At the beginning of each sports team's season, the Athletic Director, along with the team's coaches and the team members, will decide if the boy teams will wear either the team jersey with an *approved shirt worn under the jersey and *approved slacks or a solid colored dress shirt with a tie (that does not contain any graphics or wording) and *approved slacks on game days. All team members will wear *approved shoes. The Athletic Director, along with the team's coaches and the team members for the girls' teams will also decide at the beginning of the season if the girls will wear the team jersey with an *approved shirt worn under the jersey and *approved slacks or follow the regular dress code policy related to shirts, slacks and shoes on game days. *(Approved undershirts, slacks and shoes are outlined in other sections of this SSLS Dress Code Policy.) Cheerleaders Members of the cheerleading teams will wear their designated uniforms each game day. During the colder months of the sporting season, the Athletic Director, along with the teams' coaches may elect to require that team members wear a designated solid colored collared shirt, along with **approved slacks and shoes. The designated lightweight jacket for the cheerleading members can be worn in the classroom. **(Approved undershirts, slacks and shoes are outlined in other sections of this SSLS Dress Code Policy.) General Information Clothing should not be torn, frayed or dirty. Hats and sunglasses may not be worn in the building. Hair may not be colored in unnatural colors. Dress Down Days (formerly known as "Free Fridays") Dress Down Days will be at the discretion of the Principal and Assistant Principal. Attire should reflect an attitude of learning not playing outside. Denim jeans are not to have holes or frayed areas. The length of shorts should be at mid thigh. Clothing that is not acceptable for designated Dress Down Days includes: short shorts; short skirts/skorts, bicycle shorts or tight spandex shorts; tank tops, spaghetti-strap shirts, and crop tops that expose the midriff; any form of beach attire; t-shirts or sweatshirts with logos or sayings deemed by SSLS faculty and staff to be inappropriate, offensive, and/or suggestive. Sandals or flip flops are not acceptable. (Shoes are not to be open-toed or backless, with the entire heel of the foot being covered.) Consequences for Non-Compliance: First Offense: (Warning)A letter will be sent home alerting parents to the violation made by the student. Second Offense:Parents will be called, requesting that appropriate clothing be brought to the school for the child to change into. Third Offense:Parents will be called, requesting that appropriate clothing be brought to the school for the child to change into. The child will also receive a detention and a meeting between the parents and school personnel will be scheduled to review the dress code policies. Disclaimer The administration and faculty of SSLS reserve the right to make judgments concerning proper and improper dress for the school based on the guidelines outlined in this policy. If it becomes necessary, we will inform students and their parents of revisions to the dress code policy that need to be made during the school year. Failure of a faculty member to make a dress code correction does not mean the attire is acceptable the next time. ST. STEPHENS LUTHERAN SCHOOL DISCIPLINE CODE St. Stephens Lutheran School's (SSLS) discipline code and policy are based on the Scriptural admonition that we should "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6) The purpose of the code is to establish clear guidelines that encourage and require students to conduct themselves in a respectful manner at all times. All elements of the code apply to all school sponsoredactivities and to transportation to and from such events. In every event, the adult in charge is responsible for initiating the proper sequences of discipline procedure. This implies, however, that adults are expected to comply with the code and administer compliance with it. In applying this code, it is important to remember that Scripture tells us that, "Gossip separates the best of friends." (Proverbs 16:28) For this reason, no one, parents included, is to discuss discipline incidents casually. Should there be a reason to discuss or question the specifics of an incident, please arrange a conference with the staff members involved. MINOR OFFENSES Teachers and staff members of SSLS are encouraged to handle minor discipline infractions lovingly and quietly, making a record of them and referring them to the school office only if they become repetitive or seem deliberate. Parents are contacted only if the child is not able to contribute to its resolution or if the offense endangers other. Parents and non-parents helping in the school are asked to handle such problems similarly, but in every case to report them to the classroom teacher. Parents and non-parents are asked not to report the incident to anyone else -including the parents of the offender -except the classroom teacher. Parents and non-parents are to respect the decision of school personnel in handling such matters. The following are minor offenses: ! Interruption/disruption of instruction in any way ! Failure to perform assigned tasks ! Eating/drinking in class ! Reactionary/impulsive disrespect to any person ! Chewing gum on school property ! Disturbance or minor damage of another's property or possessions ! Inappropriate dress (all students shall comply with the SSLS dress code) ! Spontaneous or inappropriate language or gesture ! Failure to comply with any reasonable request made by the adult in charge ! Impulsive and inappropriate behavior ! Dishonesty ! In-school possession of any toy, object, or thing disallowed by the school The following are appropriate response(s): 1. The teacher/staff member will handle the minor infractions in the way she/he feels is most beneficial and loving, including in school and after school as well as detention from future school activities. 2. If the staff member is unable to resolve the problem by this means, she/he will contact the parents by phone {preferably) or written note. 3. When initial home contact is unsuccessful in changing the child's behavior, a conference will be conducted. 4. If the problem is not readily resolved or if disruption to instructions/activities is severe, the child will be sent to the Principal and the procedure for major offenses may be initiated. MAJOR OFFENSES A record of all major offenses will be kept on active file through June 30 of the year following the year on which the major offense occurs and usually will be handled as outlined below. However, in cases when violations consist of multiple infractions which violate the discipline code (especially repetitive violations) or where the offense jeopardizes the safety of any person or property, these procedures may be waived in favor of permanent inclusion in the file, immediate suspension and/or immediate suspension with possible consideration of expulsion. The decision for immediate suspension shall be left to the discretion of the Principal upon review of all known facts about the incident. Expulsion shall be made if the gravity of the situation warrants or if the problem is not resolved in other ways. The following are major offenses: ! Fighting-physically or verbally ! Theft/attempted theft ! Academic dishonesty (forgery/cheating) ! Smoking ! Repeated, unresolved or deliberate minor offenses ! Intentional or intended physical harm of any person ! Deliberate use of degrading or offensive language, profanity or irreverence ! Triggering of fire alarm ! Damaging/attempting to damage personal or school property ! Unauthorized presence in any area of the building or departure from the assigned area without permission ! Habitual disrespect for or challenge of school designated authority ! Refusal to respond to emergency directives ! Habitual disrespect for or conflict with any other person ! Unauthorized sale or distribution of any property ! Sexual misconduct The following are appropriate response(s): First Offense 1. Teacher or adult-in-charge shall send the child to the school office along with a written report. The Principal shall hear and review all known facts about the situation. 2. The teacher or Principal will attempt to contact a parent/guardian, reporting the incident and seek insight into its solution and discussing likely consequences. 3. Each student involved will take home a letter from the Principal describing the problem, requiring a parent signature and a conference before the child can return to class. 4. The Principal will restore child to class as soon as the above conditions are met and with instructions concerning any classroom disciplinary action required. 5. The incident is recorded in child's permanent record for the time as above referred. In cases of repeated, severe or dangerous infractions, the record may remain in the child's permanent file. Second Offense 1. 2. and 3. Same as above for First Offense. 4. A conference will be required. If the conference is not kept, the child may NOT return to school and parents must reschedule the conference. Suspension may result if the incident is severe or indicates a developing pattern. 5. Same as above. Record of both incidents kept in file for the period of time as set out above from the date of the second offense. Third Offense 1. 2. and 3. Same as above for First Offense. 4. In the child's presence, the Principal calls the parents, informing them that this constitutes a third violation. According to the discretion of the Principal, the student is then suspended for up to ten (10) school days. Parents must arrange for immediate removal from school. 5. During suspension, all assignments will receive a failing grade. Work assigned during but due after the suspension may be made up according to the discretion of the teacher. Records of suspension remain a part of a child's permanent record. 6. If a conference has not been conducted among all involved parties during the period of suspension then the suspension shall continue until a conference is conducted. Parents of the suspended student assume the responsibility of calling the school to schedule the conference. MAJOR OFFENSES RESULTING IN IMMEDIATE EXPULSION The following major offenses shall result in immediate expulsion: ! Possession of any weapon or use of any object as a weapon (a weapon shall be any ! Object or instrument which can reasonably cause injury to a person) ! Possession of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverage(s) It is a policy of this school that it will not tolerate any student who possesses any weapon, illegal drugs and/or alcoholic beverage(s) on the school campus or during a school related activity. Upon a finding by the Principal that the student possessed a weapon, drugs and/or alcohol, the principal shall immediately expel the student from the school campus and the student shall immediately remove all of his/her belongings. Expulsion for these offenses shall be for the remainder of the school year. The student or the parent/guardian of the student shall have a right of appeal as provided herein. Additional Offenses After a suspension has occurred, any additional violations may result in either immediate and additional suspension or consideration for expulsion. Suspension or expulsion (except as stated under Major Offenses Resulting in Immediate Expulsion) is left to the direction of the Principal and the Church Board of Directors as herein provided. A second suspension will follow the same procedure as the first. In no case, however, will more that two suspensions occur WITHOUT requiring consideration for expulsion. Any child re-enrolling at SSLS for a school year subsequent to an expulsion, returns with all rights and privileges restored, provided that, the administration of SSLS retains the right to deny re-enrollment privileges or to make re-enrollment acceptance "probationary" and/or impose ongoing enrollment conditions upon the child and/or parent or guardian. Such probationary or conditional requirements will be stated in writing and must be signed by the parents/guardians. Any re-application implies willingness to adhere to all school/church policies and/or procedures as they are interpreted and administered by the school. Failure to meet or maintain probationary or enrollment conditions may result in immediate removal from SSLS's school rolls. The expulsion is made a part of the child's permanent record and cannot be removed. Expulsion If expulsion (except as provided under Major Offenses Resulting in Immediate Expulsion) is deemed to be the appropriate punishment, then the student shall be expelled for a minimum of ten (10) school days up to the remainder of the school year. After a period of thirty (30) consecutive days that the student has been expelled then the parent/guardian of the student may petition the Church Board of Directors for reinstatement upon a showing of clear and convincing evidence that the student has reformed his/her conduct. It is entirely in the discretion of the Church Board of Directors to consider the petition for reinstatement, which may or may not require a hearing as determined solely by the Church Board of Directors. Any student that is suspended or expelled from SSLS is not entitled to any refund for any monies paid to SSLS. RIGHT OF APPEAL If a student or parent/guardian of the student who is disciplined, suspended or expelled from school does not accept the punishment for the offense, then the student or parent shall have a right to appeal the decision to the Church Board of Directors, which appeal must be filed with the Principal within seventy-two (72) hours of the decision and if not appealed within this period of time then all rights to appeal shall be forfeited. The appeal shall be scheduled for a hearing by the Church Board of Directors and written notice sent to the appropriate parties. During the appeal, the student and at least one parent/guardian shall be present and available to testify, answer questions and offer evidence. The pastor and/or attorney for the student may also be present, provided that, if the student or parent/guardian is to be represented by an attorney then the Church Board of Directors shall receive at least seventy-two (72) hours prior written notice before the hearing date. If the Church Board of Directors does not receive at least seventy-two (72) hours notice of attorney representation, then the hearing may be rescheduled by Church Board of Directors. At the hearing, the attorney for the student or parent/guardian of the student may provide counsel and advice to his/her client but may not speak for his client or offer testimony except for a closing argument of not greater than ten (10) minutes after all the evidence has been presented before the Church Board of Directors. The decision of the Church Board of Directors shall be final and binding upon all parties. Asbestos Notification In accordance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, (AHERA), the school has implemented an asbestos management plan, which was submitted to the authorities in Raleigh in spring 1989. The plan was approved in 1990, and is available for review by interested persons at the principal's office. As part of the management plan, the school removed or sealed off all friable asbestos in the school buildings during the summer of 1989. The remaining asbestos,within the original floor tiles whichhas been covered over with new non-asbestos containing tiles,is surveyed on a regular basis to insure that these materials do not pose a hazard to building occupants. Mr. Steve Flowers serves as the asbestos coordinator for St. Stephens Lutheran School. If there are any questions concerning the asbestos program at St. Stephens or about asbestos in general, please contact him at 327-3391. Birthdays Refreshments may be brought to celebrate a child's birthday. Please discuss this with the teacher in advance. A book may be donated to the library in your child's name. Do not send flowers, balloons, or other items to be delivered to the child at school for birthdays or other special occasions. Field Trips Field trips are planned by each teacher. Permission slips must be signed by the parent or guardian if a student is allowed to attend. All trips are approved by the principal or assistant principal. Holiday Parties Parties are conducted by the teachers if they feel that their classroom merits them. As privileges, these can be removed or individuals removed from participation. End of the year parties should be planned after school hours. Hot Lunch St. Stephens offers a hot lunch program every school day, unless school is dismissed before noon. Menus are published in our weekly school newsletter and on the website. Lunch money is to be paid in the school office. Children may bring bag lunches to school. Parents should not cater in lunch for individual students or small groups. Lunch must either be purchased in the cafeteria or brought by the student on an individual basis. By government standards, students takinghot lunch can takemilk as a part of the cost of the lunch. Students will have the option of purchasing juice or water. Children may bring a thermos with hot foods. Carbonated drinks or drinks in glass bottles or cans are not to be brought. Milk may be obtained by paying into the lunch account in the school office. Parents may eat lunch with their child. Adult lunches will be sold on an ala carte basis. Please notify the office by 9:30 a.m. so the kitchen can plan for visitors. Disclaimer In accordance with the Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Hours The school will open at 7:15 AM. Children in grades K-8 who arrive before 8:00 AM are to go to the lunchroom where a supervisor will be on duty. Children will be dismissed from the lunchroom at 8:00 to go to their classrooms. Classes begin at 8:15 AM. Dismissal for K-8 will be at 3:10 PM. At 3:30 PM, all children remaining will be taken to Extended Day Care. Pre-school children who arrive before 8:15 AM are to go to Room 2 (4-year preschool classroom). Pre-school classes begin at 8:30 and dismiss at 11:30. Those remaining for Extended Day Care will be going to lunch at 11:45 and then Extended Day Care in Room 2. Extended Day Care will run until 6:00 PM every day. Bills for this service will be billed monthly. Extended Day Care is subject to the same payment rules as tuition. School closings will be determined by the Principal. Announcements will be made on the following radio and TV stations: Radio Stations - WIRC (AM 630) WXRC (FM 95.7) WHKY (AM 1290) WNNC (Newton) TV Stations - WSOC/Charlotte (Channel 9; AM 93 Radio) WBTV/Charlotte (Channel 3) Announcements will also be on the school answering machine and the school website. SSLS will not be called off automatically on days called off by the Hickory Public Schools or Catawba County Schools. Library Our library is open for use by all of the students. The books, which the pupil checks out, are his/her responsibility and a charge will be made for the loss of books. Such charge will be paid before a report card is issued at the end of the school year. Individual classes have a scheduled library time each week. Students also work on their own on projects, which require the materials found in the library. Teachers will accompany their students to the library on their assigned period for the week. Our library is growing, thanks to the efforts and generosity of our LPTL and many donations. Books for the library may be purchased for special occasions or to honor a student, parent or friend. The chosen book will be appropriately inscribed and placed on the library shelf to be checked out by students. For further information, please contact the school office. Lost & Found Any articles of value, which are found, should be brought to the school office. These items may be claimed in the school office. If not claimed, they will be donated to charity monthly. Please write your child's name in sweatshirts, sweaters, jackets, etc., for easy return if found. School Attendance A. Regular attendance is vitally important to the progress of the child. If the child is absent from school, a written note from the parent is to be sent to the teacher on the day the child returns to class. Parents are asked to notify the school office (256-2166) by 9:00 AM on the day of absence stating the reason for the absence. A child's promotion is in danger after nine days of absence in a semester. Absence above nine days in a semester will be reviewed by the principal, parent, and teacher with student make-up time planned for after school and/or Saturdays. Arriving after 9:00 AM or leaving before 3:00 PM will constitute an absence for part of the day. Due to the heavy schedule commitments of teachers, homework cannot be given immediately for students who are absent. Homework assignments for absent children will be sent home with siblings or left in school office between 3:00 and 4:00 PM. Perfect attendance is awarded to students with no absences or unexcused tardies. B. Tardiness - This interferes with the child's progress in school and leads to the foundation of an undesirable character trait. When a child is late, a note must be sent by a parent or guardian to the teacher stating the cause of the tardiness. The child is to report to the office before going to the classroom. On the 4th unexcused tardy in a quarter, a child will be given a detention. Middle school students changing classes must be on time to class, otherwise they will be marked tardy and a detention given accordingly. C. Leaving During School Session - Pupils are excused to leave school before the regular dismissal time only in cases of illness, doctor's appointments, and emergency or planned school related activities. Parents needing to have their child dismissed from school are to notify the office or teacher and come to the office for the child in person to sign the child out. A designated person must provide proper identification, if requested. If a child is returned from a doctor's appointment, a doctor's excuse should be presented to the receptionist. D. After 4 unexcused tardies or early departures in a semester, a student will be disqualified for perfect attendance. E. Vacations should, if at all possible, be taken while school is not is session. Students who leave school for even short periods of time miss vital instruction, which puts them behind in sequential learning. The responsibility for the gaps in learning and making up missed assignments rest with the student and his/her parent(s). F. Make-up work: For every day a child is absent, two days will be given to make up work up to one week. For extended illness, the teacher and parents will need to coordinate their efforts. Students leaving school for a holiday will be given their missed assignments on their return. Sports All students who participate in extramural sports are expected to maintain at least a "C" average and no "F's". Grades will be checked at report card time and at three-week intervals. In order to participate in a practice or game, a student must be in school a full day of the practice or game. Supplies St. Stephens Lutheran School furnishes all basic textbooks and needed auxiliary materials. Students are asked to care for these books, as the textbooks will be used again. Children, however, may be asked to bring special materials for projects, experiments, etc. Children should have their own Bibles. Individual teachers will inform students of necessary supplies before school begins. Abused materials will be replaced by the student. Telephone Use Students must obtain permission and a telephone pass from their teacher or the principal to use the school telephone. The phones are to be used only for emergencies or urgent needs; plans for social get-togethers should be made away from school. Students are not allowed to use or carry cell phones or text messaging devices during the school day (8:15 - 3:10). Students are discouraged from using cell phones assoon as they walk out of the building. Cell phones and other electronic devicesbrought to school should be stored in the student's locker. Students found with cell phones or text-messaging devices will have them confiscated and stored in the school office where the parents can pick them up. Additional consequence will include 10 punches on the student's star card. If a student needs to have a cell phone for an after school activity, they are to check the phone in the office and pick it up before leaving. If the student does not turn in a cell phone and it is discovered by the teacher, it will be turned in to the office and the parents will be asked to pick it up. Worship Life Every school day begins and ends with an act of worship. A brief devotion, including Scripture and prayer is held in every classroom at the beginning of the day. Prayers are spoken before and after meals. Chapel services are held every Wednesday morning at 8:30 for the students in pre-school through grade 8. Through the chapel program, students are given the opportunity to worship their Lord in a formal setting with other members of the student body. Parents are always invited and encouraged to attend. These chapel services form a part of the school's religious instruction. Money received through chapel offerings is designated for charitable and religious institutions and organizations. ACADEMIC PROGRESS/REPORTING Awards Students will be recognized for special achievements. Awards will be given for perfect worship attendance, school attendance, participation in sports and various academic achievements. Grades three through eight may qualify for either the Honor or Merit Roll. Specific criteria for these awards will be explained during the first quarter conference. Grading Scales Kindergarten and Grade 1 will utilize their own scales to be explained during the first conference. Grades 2 - 4Grades 5 - 8 A 100 - 92 A 100 - 93 B 91 - 83 B 92 - 85 C 82 - 74 C 84 - 77 D 73 - 65 D 76 - 70 Formal report cards will be issued quarterly. Parents may access student academic progressthrough Edline. Homework An important aspect of any elementary educational program is to develop in the child good study habits and a sense of responsibility. One method of achieving these goals is through the assigning of homework. Children attending St. Stephens Lutheran School may expect to receive homework assignments. On the average, homework assignments will not exceed one hour in length per night. If they are consistently more than this, contact your child's teacher. From time to time, parents may need to assist their child with work. However, this does not mean that parents are to do their child's work. Should a question arise in any given area of schoolwork, parents are urged to consult with their child's teacher. Progression of Students Students will progress or be retained in each grade level dependent upon the following criteria: 1. Successful completion of the curriculum for the particular grade level based upon: a. Assigned work b. Teacher made and publisher-supplied tests c. Participation in classroom work 2. Results of standardized achievement tests. 3. Results of specialized testing, if deemed necessary. 4. Conference with the student's parents/guardians. Testing Students in the first through eighth grades will be given the Stanford Achievement Test, an achievement test with national norms, to determine their progress, as well as scholastic strengths and weaknesses. Ability tests will be given to students in grades three, five, and eight. Eighth grade students will participate in the North Carolina Computer Literacy Test as well as the North Carolina Algebra and Physical Science End of Course test. Students in grades four and seven will take the Stanford Writing Test. EDUCATIONAL COST St. Stephens Lutheran School was founded by members of the St. Stephens congregation and was and is subsidized through church contributions. We strive to keep all costs as reasonable as possible for families who desire a Christ-centered education for their children. In addition to congregational support, registration and tuition fees, we are thankful for the donations of our parent-teacher organization - the LPTL, fundraisers, and private donations. An endowment fund has been established with an eye toward the future. The endowment fund will help support the general operating costs of the school, thus keeping the tuition affordable for families. A second endowment fund was set up to help with financial assistance for families. Donations and gifts to either fund are welcomed and greatly appreciated. Please note below the financial policy for St. Stephens Lutheran School (revised March 18, 2003). Scholarships may be available for students needing assistance; contact the school office for information and forms. 1. Registration fees are due upon a child's acceptance to St. Stephens Lutheran School. Currently enrolled students registration will be from February 1st until March 31st. An additional fee will be added for late registration. School administration will seek to fill any vacant spots with a child from the waiting list. August tuition will be required by June 1st in order to guarantee a child's spot in the school year. All fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. The first tuition payment will be required by June 1st in order to guarantee a child's position in the new school year. Registration fees are non-refundable. Tuition is billed in 10 equal payments by the Business Office. All payments are due on the 1st of the month and are late after the 10th of the month. A late fee of $25.00 will be assessed to accounts not paid by the 10th. Bank charges will be assessed for all returned checks. Extended care fees are billed and due weekly unless other arrangements are made with the Business Office. Any extended care fees appearing on the monthly billing will be due by the 10 of the billing month. A late fee of $25.00 will be billed after the 10th of the month. If extended care bill is 45 days past the original weekly billing period, the student will unable to attend the extended care program. 2. All fees must be current for a child to be registered for the next school year. 3. All fees are due by the last day of each semester unless prior arrangements have been made. Should a student have outstanding financial obligations at the end of each semester, the student cannot return to school. Until all end of year fees are paid, the report card will not be issued to the student permanent records will not be transferred, and students will be unable to participate in extended class trips or eighth grade graduation. 4. In the event a student withdraws from school, there will be no registration refund. Tuition will not be refunded for the current month the student leaves. Advance payments will be refunded. All fees for a transferring student must be up to date and all textbooks and library books be returned in order to release a report card or permanent records. The tuition policy for members of St. Stephens Lutheran Church is: Any member, who has children in our school, must attend worship services in our church at least two Sundays per month on average, to qualify for member rates. The attendance of both parents is preferable, but one parent is acceptable. The requirement would apply for the child/children attending school. Be it further resolved that if their attendance record does not meet the requirements during the fall semester, they would be charged at the non-member throughout the spring semester. If poor attendance occurred during the spring semester, then non-member rates would apply for the fall semester. Extended Care In order to help working families, we have extended care available for both preschool and grades K-8.We will open at 7:15 a.m. for before school care and be open until 6:00 p.m. for after school care. Please note that we close at 6:00 p.m. In the event you are running late, please call ahead so arrangements can be made for the children. The additional charge of $1.oo per five minutes after 6:00 p.m. will be in effect. Parents of preschoolers must sign children both in the morning and when they are picked up. Students in K-8 may sign themselves in to extended care, however we ask that the parents sign them out when they are picked up. Students coming into extended care are under the supervision of the leaders and will be expected to follow the rules and procedures of the program, which are a continuation of the school rules. Students will receive a snack and be given free time to work on homework and play. Please fill out the information form for extended care in the folder. Billing for extended care will be done on a weekly basis, with bills being sent home on Tuesday for the preceding week. All bills must be kept up to date. Those wishing to pay on a monthly basis must contact the school office for monthly billing. Monthly billing must be paid by the 10th; otherwise a $25 late fee will be assessed. Lutheran Parent - Teacher League The Lutheran Parent-Teacher League (LPTL) is an organization designed to help parents and teachers work and learn together for the good of the children. The executive board of the LPTL will present programs of interest for parents and teachers, provide opportunities for families to interact socially, and provide funds for various projects designed to uplift God's people here at St. Stephens. Parents of students enrolled at St. Stephens Lutheran School are included in the LPTL membership and are encouraged to participate through attendance and input. Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures There will be two designated drop off and pick up areas for students. The tow areas were so designated for the safety of the students. The first area is at the end of the school walkway entering from the lower drive on Spencer Road. Drivers may drop off students, and then proceed around the next section of parking lot going out on Spencer Road. DO NOT COME IN OR GO OUT CIRCULAR DRIVE AREA BESIDE OF CHURCH - DO NOT LOAD OR UNLOAD CHILDREN ON THE CIRCULAR DRIVE AREA IN FRONT OF THE CHURCH. The second drop off and pick up area will be in the back of the school on the playground. Drivers may enter the driveway from Springs Road, bear right towards church and load or unload the children at back entrance of school. Circle back to left and go out Springs Road entrance. This area would be better for those going north on Springs Road. For those wishing to park and come into the building, please park on the Spencer roadside, being careful for the children as you cross traffic in the parking lot. Notice of Non-Discrimination St. Stephens Lutheran School admits students of any race to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at St. Stephens Lutheran School, and St. Stephens Lutheran School does not discriminate on the basis of race in the administration of its educational, admission, scholarship or other school administered programs.