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2009 – 2010
Elementary School Student/Pa=
rent
Handbook
Accredited by =
the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the
Dear Students and Parents,
&=
nbsp; We
are excited to begin another great school year at Prattville
&=
nbsp; Our
school can best be characterized as a community of learners. It is our goal to encourage studen=
ts to
become active thinkers in an environment where individual needs of students=
are
met and where instruction is differentiated to support student learning.
&=
nbsp; It
is critically important that you take the time to read this handbook in its
entirety. Many times, questions are asked or problems arise that could
have been avoided by a good understanding of the policies and procedures.&n=
bsp;
Please become part of the team that is striving to make P.C.A. the premier =
private
school in this area. I solicit your feedback and am always open to
suggestions. Our website continues to be an excellent primary source =
of
information. Please check it frequently for updates and schedules at =
www.4pca.com.
In
Him,
Mrs.
Leslie S. Cowell
Elementary
School Assistant Principal
Spiritu=
al
Theme 2009-2010:
“=
The
Lord is my strength and my might.”&n=
bsp;
–Psalm 118:14a (NRSV)
From the
=
It is
with great pleasure that we welcome you and your student(s) to
=
PCA is
in a time of great growth and is truly blessed. Plans to provide quality service t=
o your
student(s) reflect great planning and preparation. Please give our faculty and staff =
your
support.
=
Feel
free to contact our president with your suggestions or your concerns. We value your contributions.
PCA Board Members:
Don
Greer, Chairman
Rusty Adair
Mac Adkins
Keith Cantrell
Lane
Easterling
Randy
Grissett
Joe
Hamilton
Adam
Stephenson
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>
PCA
Administrators:
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>PCA
President/Elementary School Principal:&nbs=
p;
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Elementary
School Assistant Principal: <=
st1:PersonName
w:st=3D"on">Leslie Cowell
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Elementary
School Counselor:
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Education
Technology Director: Drew Ellis
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Spiritual
Director:
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Athletic
Director:
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Secondary
School Principal:
<=
st1:place
w:st=3D"on">
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Office
Director:
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>Admissions
Director:
<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
>
Table of Content=
s (not
all minor areas are listed)
Introduction.................=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
.. 5
=
<=
st1:place
w:st=3D"on">Mission Statement
=
V=
ision
Statement
=
P=
CA
Beliefs
=
S=
chool
Improvement Goals
=
P=
ortrait
of a Graduate
=
E=
nrollment
Policies
Parent Communication.........= ...........................................................................= ................................................................. 7<= o:p>
=
Student/Parent Complaint and
Grievances
=
=
R=
eturning
Student Registration
=
W=
ithdrawal
Policy
Attendance...................=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
. 11
&n=
bsp; Absences
=
M=
ake-Up
Work &nb=
sp;
=
T=
ardies/Check-In
=
C=
heck-Out
=
P=
asses
=
T=
ruancy
Code of Conduct..............=
...........................................................................=
....................................................................... 14
Behavior and Discipline......=
...........................................................................=
.................................................................... 16
=
Minor Offenses
=
I=
ntermediate
Offenses
=
M=
ajor
Offenses
=
C=
onduct
Probation
Sexual Harassment……=
…………………………̷=
0;….
…………………………̷=
0;…………………………=
230;……………………18
Dress Code...................=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
19
Spiritual Program............=
...........................................................................=
........................................................................ =
span>21
Academics....................=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
. 22 =
=
Grading Scales &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp;
=
H=
omework &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p;
=
L=
ate
Work
=
G=
raduation
Requirements
Dual Enrollment/AP Courses
Work Study
Exams
=
T=
extbooks
=
P=
romotions
=
A=
cademic
Probation
=
S=
ummer
School
=
A=
wards
and Honors
Athletics....................=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
..... 25
PCA Activities and Programs..=
...........................................................................=
............................................................. 26
=
A=
thletic
Booster Club
=
P=
artners
for Education
Before/After School Care &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p;
Health
Services….……………………=
230;…………………………&=
#8230;…………………………=
;…………………………R=
30;……..27
Searches.....................=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
... 30
Security.....................=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
..... 30
Visitor Procedures...........=
...........................................................................=
...................................................................... 31
Emergency Procedures.........= ...........................................................................= ................................................................ 31<= o:p>
=
S=
chool
Closing
Fire/Tornado/Emergency Procedur=
es
Student Records..............=
...........................................................................=
....................................................................... 32
Lunch Program................=
...........................................................................=
........................................................................ =
span>33
School Traffic...............=
...........................................................................=
...........................................................................=
. 34
Lost and Found...............=
...........................................................................=
......................................................................... <=
/span>36
General Policies Governing Student Events/Activities..........................................=
..................................................... 36
School/Office Hours and Tuition/Fees Payment.................................................................=
.......................................... 38 &=
nbsp;
PCA 2009-2010 Calendar.......=
...........................................................................=
.................................................................. 4=
0
"Train up a child in the way he should go, a=
nd
when he is old
he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6).=
This
handbook was written and adopted by the administration and Board of Directo=
rs
of Prattville Christian Academy.
The entire document is considered official board policy. The Academy reserves the right to =
alter,
amend, or delete portions of this document through the course of the year as
the board and administration deem necessary and proper without prior
notice. The student/parent ha=
ndbook
is reviewed and revised by a dedicated committee prior to the start of each
school year. Last revision da=
te: June 15, 2009.
PCA
is governed by a Board of Trustees made up of responsible Christians whose
function is to set policy for the operation of the Academy. The administration of the Academy =
is
delegated to the president who supervises the overall operation of the Acad=
emy.
The
students, parents,[1]<=
/span>
faculty, staff, and board of PCA are answerable to God, the Creator and Rul=
er
of all. Practicing His princi=
ples
as revealed in the Bible, we will work together to accomplish the common go=
al
of educating the students He has placed in our trust.
It is the mission of
VISION STATEMENT
Portrait of a Graduate
The
Graduate of Prattville Christian Academy ideally will show strength in the
following four areas developed by the school, home, and church.
The graduate of PCA will ha=
ve
begun the process of discerning Christ’s purpose for his/her life and
will understand how the Bible integrates into all aspects of learning and l=
ife.
The graduate will also have C=
hrist
as the central focus in his/her daily decision making.
The graduate of PCA will pe=
rform
effectively through progressive levels of education.
The graduate of PCA will mo=
del
traits of physical wellness and emotional stability to the degree that they=
are
able.
The graduate of PCA=
will understand
service and be an asset to the community in which they live.
PCA BELIEFS
1. =
A Christian school should be commi=
tted
to honoring Christ by inspiring students to reach their full spiritual,
intellectual, social, emotional, and physical potential.
2. =
Students need to demonstrate their
understanding of essential knowledge and skills and be actively involved in
solving problems and producing quality work in meaningful contexts.
3. =
Students learn best when they are
actively engaged in the learning process and have appropriate opportunities=
for
success.
4. =
A Christian school values
communication wherein parents and staff form a partnership for student succ=
ess.
5. =
Curriculum and instructional pract=
ices
should incorporate a variety of learning activities to accommodate different
learning styles.
6. =
Each student is a valued individual
with unique physical, social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual needs.=
7. =
A safe and physically comfortable
environment promotes student learning.
8. =
The faculty, staff, and parents of=
a
Christian school should model Christ-like behavior.
9. =
Students learn to make appropriate
decisions given a supportive, challenging, and Bible based environment.
10. =
The
commitment of continuous improvement by faculty, staff, and students is
imperative if students are to become confident, self-directed, and lifelong
learners.
11. =
A
Christian school should prepare qualified students for future success witho=
ut
preference to gender, race, or national origin.
&n=
bsp;  =
;
SCHOOL
IMPROVEMENT PLAN GOALS
The
following goals were established by the school community during the 2005-20=
06
school year. The goals were c=
reated
based upon school community input and are aligned with the school's mission
statement, PCA’s vision statement and beliefs. They focus on improving student
achievement in the areas of academics, spiritual life, and athletics. PCA continues to pursue these three
goals. Parents are encouraged=
to
participate in the school improvement process as much as possible.
&=
nbsp; Goal
1: Personal and Social
Responsibility- Students will demonstrate increased =
<=
span
style=3D'mso-spacerun:yes'> =
l &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; evels
of respect toward faculty, staff, and property.
&=
nbsp; Goal
2: Expanding and Integrati=
ng
Technology- Students will demonstrate
=
&nb=
sp;
integrated knowledge in applying research and presentation skills.
&=
nbsp; Goal
3: Thinking and Reasoning
Skills- Students will improve cognitive learning
=
&nb=
sp;
by applying higher-order thinking skills.
NOTICE O=
F NONDISCRIMINATORY
POLICY
"Do nothing out of
favoritism" (I Timothy 5:21)
PCA
admits students of any race, color, nationality, religion, or ethnic origin=
to
all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or =
made
available to students at the Academy.
It
does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nationality, religion, or
ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions
policies, scholarships and account payments, and athletic or other Academy-=
administered
programs.
=
As a private Christian school, Prattville
PARENT COMMUNICATION
E-mail
PCA considers electro=
nic
mail as an official form of communication to parents and utilizes e-mail as=
the
primary means of communication with parents.
Families
are required to have at least one working e-mail address on file with
the office. PCA will send mes=
sages
to three (3) e-mail addresses per family. The office must be made aware of =
any
changes that you have in your electronic mail address.
Internet
access and e-mail capability are required for effective communication with
PCA. Parents can be kept info=
rmed
concerning PCA activities and programs by frequently reviewing the PCA web =
site
at www.4p=
ca.com.
Divorced Parents
The
Code of Alabama 30-3-154 (2005) states: “Unless otherwise prohibited =
by
court order or statute, all records and information pertaining to the child,
including, but not limited to, medical, physiological, dental, scholastic,
athletic, extracurricular, and law enforcement, shall be equally available =
to
both parents, in all types of custody arrangements.”
Parents
who are divorced must provide legal documents to verify child custody and o=
ther
child/parent restrictions. Un=
less
there is legal documentation that nullifies the standard
custodial/non-custodial order in a divorce situation, PCA will abide by the
Code of Alabama as stated above. It
is the responsibility of the non-custodial parent to keep PCA fully informed
concerning expectations for school information pertaining to their child.
Ed Line
Ed
line is a web based resource that interfaces with the PCA database. Upon the beginning of the school y=
ear or
within two (2) weeks of enrollment at PCA, parents are issued an Ed Line
account. Accounts should be i=
mmediately
activated upon receipt. Ed Li=
ne
allows students/parents/guardians to remain up to date on academic
progress. Ed Line accounts ar=
e also
utilized to post assignments, quizzes, and tests at the discretion of each
individual teacher.
Grade Reports
Grade reports, on Ed Line, are for the
purpose of communicating evaluation of student progress to the student and
his/her parent/guardian. Teachers update these grade reports weekly and are
available for parent review on the student’s Ed Line account.
Report Cards
Due
to the accessibility of Ed Line, 9-week report cards and semester grade rep=
orts
will not be sent home. The 9-=
week
reporting periods are shown on the school calendar at the back of this
handbook.
=
&nb=
sp;
Conferences
Scheduled
conferences are encouraged between parents and teachers. If you would like =
to
schedule an appointment with your student's teacher, please e-mail the teac=
her
or call and leave a message for the teacher to return your call with the fr=
ont
office. The teacher will answer your e-mail or return your call and schedul=
e a
convenient meeting time.
Conferences are held prior to school hours and after school hours. Please provide at least a two (2) =
day
notification to your student's teacher.&nb=
sp;
Prior planning allows for the teacher to prepare and gather informat=
ion
to address concerns that you have regarding your student's academic
performance. Elementary teachers will hold one parent conference during the
school year in October. Teach=
ers
will contact parents regarding scheduling this conference.
PCA Meetings
Each
elementary grade level will present an after-school program during the scho=
ol
year as indicated on the elementary school calendar. These programs are used as an info=
rmal
way to have fellowship with one another and allow our students an opportuni=
ty
to showcase their talents. Pr=
ior to
these programs, short PCA Partners for Education (PFE) updates will be prov=
ided
to parents. PCA administratio=
n may
also use this time to disseminate pertinent information to parents.
Aggressive Parents
Code
of Alabama 1975 Section 16-28-A-1 states the following: “The school system shall prov=
ide
assistance for seeking the issuance of a warrant or warrants for any person=
or
persons threatening or assaulting an administrator or teacher, and timely
assistance with appropriate authorities in the prosecution of any person or
persons threatening or assaulting an administrator or teacher.”
Parents
that are verbally and/or physically aggressive and/or are overly argumentat=
ive
will be asked to withdraw their student immediately from PCA.
Student/Parent Compla=
int
and Grievances
The
primary purpose of this procedure is to provide prompt and equitable resolu=
tion
of student/parent complaints and grievances.
Level One =
- The student/parent =
should
practice the "Matthew 18 Principle." The resolution of a grievance thro=
ugh
free and informal communications as close as possible to the point of origi=
n is
encouraged. Students are enco=
uraged
to consult with counselors for conflict resolution.
Level Two - After the student/parent and teacher have met and ther=
e is
no resolution and both parties have been informed of further resolution
procedures, the aggrieved student/parent may consult with the principal.
Level Three - In the event the aggrieved student/parent is =
not
satisfied with the disposition of his/her grievance at Level Two, the
student/parent shall make an appointment for appeal with the president of P=
CA
within ten days of the occurrence. The president will render a decision wit=
hin
five days of the conference.
Level Four - In the event the
aggrieved student/parent is not satisfied with the disposition at Level Thr=
ee,
the student/parent may request in writing the matter be brought to the Board
Appeal
Elementary Counseling Services
The In such cases, a referral to the
appropriate community social service agency, social worker, licensed counse=
lor,
psychologist, or physician will be made in coordination with parents.
Following
referral of elementary students for individual counseling, parents will be
notified in writing when the referral occurred, the reason for the referral,
and the outcome of the counseling session. Parents will be given the opportuni=
ty to
meet with the counselor to discuss outcomes and follow-up actions that may =
be
required.
Petitions
The
circulation of petitions in any form is prohibited at PCA.
Returning Student Registration
Each
student’s record will be reviewed at the end of each academic year to
determine whether the student is eligible to return to PCA. The records used are those which h=
ave
been available to the parents throughout the school year (i.e., report card=
s, testing
results, conduct records, and formal correspondence with the parents concer=
ning
academic or disciplinary matters).
Parents will be notified by conference and follow-up letter if the
decision has been made that their student is not eligible to return to PCA.=
Withdrawal Policy
Parents should notify the PCA office as soon as they
know that a child will be withdrawing for any reason. All withdrawals
require 24-hours to process. Transcripts and/or student records will =
not
be forwarded to any school until all accounts are settled and PCA receives a
written request from the parent/guardian or receiving school. Several procedures must occur prio=
r to a
student's withdrawal from PCA:
1. A withdrawal clearance form stating the date and rea=
son
for the
withdrawal
must be completed.
2. All PCA property must be returned. PCA property
includes, but is not
limited
to, textbooks, lockers, lock, and library books.
3. Tuition will be prorated based on the number of days=
the
student was in
school and the activities and
facilities fees must be paid in full. Please note all fees are
non-refundable.
4. Exit
survey
5. Possible exit interview with =
the president
of PCA.
ATTENDANCE
School attendance is a requirement=
of
the State of
"…any
parent, guardian, or other person having control or custody of any child
required to attend school…who fails to have the child enrolled in sch=
ool
or fails to send the child to school or fails to compel the child to proper=
ly
conduct himself or herself as a pupil in accordance with a written policy on
school behavior adopted by the local board of education and documented by t=
he
appropriate school official which conduct may result in suspension of the
pupil, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined
not more than one hundred dollars ($100) and may also be sentenced to hard
labor for the county for not more than 90 days" (Section 16-28-40, Cod=
e of
Alabama, 1975).
Absences
An
absence is defined as non-attendance in a regularly scheduled class or
activity. To be counted prese=
nt for
a day, a student must be present more than 50% of the scheduled school
day.
Explanation for Absences:
Written Explanation
In
accordance with State Law, a parent/guardian must explain the cause of every
absence of students under his/her control or charge. Upon signing out a student, parent=
s will
provide a written excuse for each absence to the elementary school receptio=
nist. If a written excuse is not present=
ed to
the front office by two days after the student’s return, the absence =
in
question will be documented as unexcused.
All
absences shall be designated as excused or unexcused. In accordance with St=
ate
Law, a student shall be excused from school for the following reasons:
&n=
bsp; 1. Personal illness of the stude=
nt
&n=
bsp; 2. Death in the immediate family=
&n=
bsp; 3. Inclement weather or emergency
conditions which could be dangerous to &nbs=
p; the
life and health of the students as determined by the principal or parent.
&n=
bsp; 4. Legal quarantine and/or subpo=
ena to
court
&n=
bsp; 5. Medical appointments
The principal
may approve absences as excused for family reasons. Only two special requests for excu=
sed
absences are granted per year for a total of not more than five days. The student must be in good standi=
ng
academically in order for the request to be approved. Requests must be made by e-mail or=
in
written form to the president two weeks in advance of absence. If absences for family reasons =
are
not approved in advance by the president, they will be considered unexcused=
.
Documented Explanation
If a
student is sick for more than six (6) consecutive days, the parent/guardian
will be required to provide medical/legal documentation supporting absences=
for
the seventh (7th) day and beyond in order for these absences to =
be
excused.
Homebound Status
On
rare occasions, the administration may put a student on homebound status ba=
sed
on physician recommendation. =
This
status is reserved for prolonged illness or injury. Homebound student absences do not c=
ount
against the days missed, if assignments are completed as required. It is the student’s responsi=
bility
to collect and complete all assignments in the time stipulated by the
administration.
Make-Up Work (Excused Absences)
If a
student is absent for any excused reason as defined above, the student is
required to make up all major assignments and other work missed during said
absence(s) at a time agreeable to the teacher(s). Teachers shall not be required to
re-teach lessons.
A
student who is absent on the day of a test or assignment should be prepared=
to
make up the test or assignment on the day he/she returns to school. Exceptions may be made with indivi=
dual
teachers under extenuating circumstances.
At
the elementary school level, the parent or guardian is responsible for
arranging necessary make-up work. =
span>Make-up
work requested from teachers will be available for pick up in the office
between 3:30-4:00 pm.
Make-Up Work (Unexcused Absences)<= o:p>
Teachers
shall NOT provide make-up work or examinations for students absent for
unexcused reasons. Suspension=
and
expulsions are considered unexcused absences from school.
Tardies
A
school tardy is defined as a student
1st
through 6th grade students are counted as tardy if they arrive f=
rom
8:01-9:15; 8:16-9:15 for PreK3 though Kindergarten.
Please
note the following regarding school tardiness:
1. ALL non-driving students must be accompanied into the offi=
ce by
a parent or the older sibling that drove them to school to receive a pass to
class or the tardy is unexcused.
2. Excessive tardiness may
result in disciplinary action. (See
behavior and discipline policy within this handbook.)
3. See absences for EXCUSED explanatio=
ns for
tardiness.
Check In/Check Out Procedures
Students
are encouraged to remain at school the entire length of the school day. Doctor, dental, and other appointm=
ents
should be arranged after school hours.&nbs=
p;
However, if such arrangements cannot be made, the following procedur=
es
should be followed:
1. Any check-in or out from 9:15-11:00 is considered a =
half
day absence. Check-in or out =
from
11:01-2:30 is considered a half day absence. These require written documentatio=
n to
be excused.
2. No student will be checked out early between 2:45-3:=
15
pm.
Truancy
Truancy
is the habitual and unlawful absence from school. In accordance with Section 16-28-4=
0,
Code of Alabama, 1975, a child shall be deemed truant for any absence
determined by the principal to be unexcused. Truancy shall also include skippin=
g or
cutting class.
1. The FIRST truancy offense/une=
xcused
absence:
a. Parent/Guardian shall be notified by the school
administration that the student was truan=
t.
b. Parent/Guardian shall be provided a copy of
2. The SECOND truancy
offense/unexcused absence:
a. =
Parent/Guardian
will be notified by the school administration that the
&n=
bsp; Autauga
County Truancy Officer has been contacted.
CODE OF
CONDUCT
By enrolling at PCA, students and parents/guardians =
are
agreeing to adhere to a Code of Conduct. Parents must understand that
their family becomes part of the PCA family and represent that family by th=
eir
actions both on and off campus. Parents should strive to set a Christ=
ian
example at all times and assist children to follow the example of Christ in
their daily lives.
As a student at Prattville
Christian Academy, each student is expected to be a moral, law abiding citi=
zen
and represent the school and the name of Jesus at all times; therefore, stu=
dent
behavior on or off campus (during school or non-school hours) that is
illicit, immoral, illegal, or in any manner reflects adversely on PCA can c=
ause
immediate expulsion.
Prattv=
ille
Those students who choose to attend PCA will accept =
all
standards, regulations, and requirements. PCA feels strongly about
helping each student become a more responsible Christian leader, one who
understands the sincere need for respect for authority, property, governmen=
t,
peers, and self. PCA will work to strengthen every student in these
areas. Students must understand that although they have freedom of ch=
oice,
they do not have freedom from the consequences of their actions.
Guiding Biblical principles at PCA:
 =
; Matthew
7:12 &nb=
sp; "In
everything, do to others what you would have them do to you."
<=
i> =
Ephesians
4:32 &nb=
sp; "Be
kind and compassionate one to another."
<=
i> =
Philippians
1:27 &nb=
sp; "Whatever
happens, conduct yourselves in a
<=
i> =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; manner
worthy of the gospel of Christ."
1. &n=
bsp;  =
;
Responsibility to Others
Students are expected to
conduct themselves in a responsible manner at all times, always giving
consideration to others first. Both on and off PCA grounds, students =
are
to maintain the highest standards of respect for teachers, faculty, staff,
parents, other adults, and fellow students.
2. &n=
bsp;  =
;
Responsibility for Property
Students are expected to =
act
responsibly regarding property, whether it is property of PCA, others, or t=
heir
own. Any behavior which may damage or deface property is forbidden and
will be dealt with accordingly. Parents may be held financially
responsible for loss or damage to PCA property.
3.&n=
bsp;
Lying, Cheating, and Stealing
Students shall not lie, c=
heat,
or steal, nor shall they tolerate such conduct in any other student. =
4.&n=
bsp;
Fighting, Rough Play, Harassment
Physical contact and hara=
ssment
at PCA is strictly forbidden. Any student participating in physical
conduct and/or harassment on school grounds will receive prompt disciplinary
action, including suspension or expulsion. Students are to report
harassment and fights immediately. Any student failing to report
harassment or physical contact shall likewise be disciplined. Serious injur=
ies
may occur even in moments of "horseplay," when students are
"kidding" or "playing around." Any action which
jeopardizes the safety of another student, whether deliberate or not, will
receive immediate attention and disciplinary action.
5.&n=
bsp;
Profanity, Obscenity, and Vulgar Language or Conduct
 =
; "Do
not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths” (Ephesians 4:29=
)
Students must speak and a=
ct in
keeping with Christian standards, and must not interfere with the education=
al
process. Profane, obscene and vulgar language, gestures, conduct and
material are strictly prohibited.
6. Food and Dr=
ink
Except as otherwise provi=
ded
herein food and drink will only be consumed in designated areas (i.e.-
cafetorium and designated areas outside) during lunch and/or break time. &n=
bsp;Chewing
gum is forbidden on school grounds at any time.
7. PCA Functio=
ns
Students attending school
functions, both on and off campus, shall be governed by school rules and
regulations, and shall be subject to the authority of school personnel.
8. Student Att=
itudes
A student's attitude eith=
er
strengthens or hinders the educational process. Students are expected=
to
display an attitude that will create a stronger environment for learning and
development. Students displaying an inappropriate attitude will be
disciplined accordingly.
9. Student Eff=
ort
Students are expected to exert=
their
best effort in all areas of activities. PCA teachers often make
assignments which require students to invest out-of-school time to
complete. Students must complete and turn in these assignments in a
timely manner. Failure to do =
so
will affect the student’s academic standing and may result in
disciplinary action.
10. Public Displays of Affe=
ction
“No contact.”
Students are prohibited from all public displays of affection such as
kissing, hand holding, arms around the waist, arms around shoulders, etc., =
at
school, on school grounds and/or PCA events.
BEHAVIOR=
&n=
bsp;  =
; &n=
bsp;  =
; &n=
bsp;  =
;
“Do not withhold discipline =
from
a child" (Proverbs 23:13)
“Discipline your children, a=
nd
they will give you peace; they will bring delight to
your soul” (Proverbs 29:17)<= o:p>
“No discipline seems pleasan=
t at
the time, but painful. Later =
on,
however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have
been
trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:11)
Although PCA has no power to fo=
rce
thoughts or beliefs upon students, it must be able to control students
The faculty and administration =
of
PCA have the responsibility and authority to correct students’
inappropriate behavior in order to maintain a quality learning env=
ironment. At PCA discipline is designed to a=
chieve
appropriate behavior while teaching students character and self-discipline<=
/span>.
In order to prepare students fo=
r secondary
school and then college, PCA must establish and maintain an atmosphere that=
is
conducive to learning. The
establishment of such an atmosphere rests upon each student’s readine=
ss
to assume responsibility for his or her own actions and to meet the demands=
of a
productive educational environment.
In
grades Pre K through 6, the classroom teacher will handle routine disciplin=
ary
matters, and parents will receive timely communication concerning classroom
behavior. Teachers will provi=
de
parents with a detailed classroom management description for their classroo=
m at
orientation. If a counselor or
principal referral is considered appropriate, parents will be notified that=
the
referral has occurred and of the action that was taken.
When a st=
udent is
referred to the principal/assistant principal for disciplinary reasons, the
principal will hear the student’s explanation and may consult with ot=
her
involved parties and school personnel, if necessary, before determining the
classification of violation and appropriate disciplinary measure. A principal referral will result i=
n one
or more of the following actions being taken: conference with student,
conference with student and parents, behavioral warning, behavioral probati=
on, out-of-school
suspension, mandatory off-campus counseling or expulsion.
Out-of-School
Suspension (Grades PreK-6) is the removal of the student from
school for a specified time period.
Parents will be notified of out-of-school suspension determination in
writing to include the process for appeal to the board appeals committee. Suspension is considered an unexcu=
sed
absence from school. Teachers=
will
not provide make-up work or examinations for students who have been
suspended.
Teachers,
at their discretion, may require suspended students to make up homework, cl=
ass
work, etc. on a non-credit basis in order to help such students maintain
academic pace.
Mandatory Off-Campus
Assessment (Grades Pre K-6) may be required when determined by the principal or the=
school
counselor. When off-campus co=
unselor
assessment is determined as a necessary step following a principal referral,
parents will provide documentation of the assessment completed by a qualifi=
ed
mental health professional to the principal within the time frame
designated. Failure to comply=
with
counseling assessment requirements will result in expulsion.
Expulsion
(Grades Pre K-6) is the permanent removal of a student from
PCA. PCA reserves the righ=
t to
ask any student to leave at any time for any reason when the administration
believes it is in the best interest of the school. Parents
will be notified of expulsion determination in writing to include the proce=
ss
for appeal to the board appeals committee.=
Any student expelled from PCA may not attend any school functions.
Students
suspended more than 2 times during a school year will be considered for
expulsion.
Students
may be assigned behavior probation at the discretion of the principal due to
ongoing behavior problems. Wh=
en
students are assigned behavior probation, their parents will be notified by
letter after face-to-face conferences are conducted. Should behavioral difficulties con=
tinue,
expulsion will be considered.
Students
placed on behavior probation will remain on behavior probation for a minimu=
m of
one semester. During the
probationary period, parents will be kept informed regarding their
student’s status and/or progress.
School Grounds
Students
are not permitted on school grounds outside of normal school hours except f=
or
PCA sponsored instruction, training, and extracurricular events and
practices. Students discovere=
d on
campus in violation of this rule will be considered trespassing.
Cell
Phones/Electronic Devices
Cell phones or any other
electronic devices, to include iPods, game systems, or CD players, are not
authorized for elementary school students during school hours.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
While
all forms of teasing, ridicule, humiliation, bullying, and belittlement are
strongly discouraged and are improper for those who want to model the examp=
le
of Christ, sexual harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment is defined as
unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or
physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by one student to any another=
person. Conduct that is perceived by anoth=
er as
sexual harassment, whether or not the action was intended as such, may be
considered sexual harassment and will be dealt with as such. Any conduct which has the purpose or
effect of substantially interfering with another pupil’s academic
performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational
environment will be considered harassment.=
A complaint or report submitted in good faith will not affect the
complainant’s future grades or educational opportunity. False claims will be considered a
violation of this policy.
A person who feels t=
hey have
been a victim of sexual harassment is encouraged to take one or more of the
following actions:
(1)=
Parent <=
/span>
(2)=
Staff member
(3)=
Counselor
(4)=
Principal
A
report will result in a formal investigation of the incident. In determining what action will be=
taken
when sexual harassment occurs, PCA will consider the surrounding circumstan=
ces,
the nature of the advances, the relationships between the parties involved,=
the
ages of the parties involved, and the context in which the alleged incident=
(s)
occurred.
DRESS CODE
In order to maintain a positive Christian and
academic atmosphere at PCA, students are expected to be clean, neat, and
appropriately dressed. The PCA
dress code is intended to provide students with the minimum standards of
dress. Students are encourage=
d to
always exceed the dress code requirements.=
The president reserves the right to assess changing clothing styles =
and to
make changes to the dress code during the year as necessary.
One of the key goals of this dress code is promot=
ing
modesty. The Christian and academic environ=
ment
that characterizes PCA demands modesty in dress. In all cases, students are expecte=
d to
strive for modesty in the selection and wearing of all clothing items.
Dress code violations will be corrected immediate=
ly. If required, parents may be notifi=
ed to
correct the situation. Any ab=
sence
that results from correction of dress will be considered unexcused. =
PCA-app=
roved
school wear
as referenced in this code is clothing authorized for wear at PCA that is
purchased for the current school year or purchased for previous school year=
s to
include shirts that were purchased through PCA sponsored clubs or PCA
organizations such as the Booster Club.
PCA-approved school wear may be purchased from the
PCA front office or from Buckhead Uniforms,
PreK3-3=
rd
grade
4th-6th grad=
e
1. =
Students may wear any PCA-approved
polo shirt, button-down oxford shirt or blouse. PCA-approved sh=
irts
and blouses will not be altered for any reason.
2. =
Students may wear visible
undershirts/t-shirts under a PCA polo shirt as long as they are PCA colors
(solid purple, white, gray, black).
3. =
Students may wear PCA-approved
t-shirts, PCA-approved hooded sweatshirts, and non-hooded PCA sweatshirts t=
hat
meet dress code requirements on Friday of each week. These items are =
not
authorized Monday through Thursday.
4. =
Students are only authorized to we=
ar
PCA-approved outerwear purchased from the PCA office or Buckhead Uniforms.
Outerwear that is not approved by PCA will not be worn on school grou=
nds
between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
5. =
Pants will be hemmed with no holes=
or
frays and will be worn at the natural waistline. Athletic pants and
bathing suits are not appropriate for daily wear.
6. =
Shorts and skirts will be no short=
er
than three (3) inches above the knee, hemmed, and have no holes or frays.&n=
bsp;
7. =
Camouflaged clothing of any type i=
s not
authorized for wear at PCA except on announced casual days.
8. =
Students will wear khaki colored
pants, shorts, or skirts with a PCA approved polo shirt, oxford shirt, or
blouse on all field trips.
 =
;
Hair =
8211; Bizarre hairstyles or=
hair
colors are not permitted. Hair
length, color, and style must be maintained in a manner that does not distr=
act
others or disrupt learning.
Boys’ hair will not extend past the eyebrows or the bottom par=
t of
the shirt collar.
Shoes &=
#8211; Shoes must be worn a=
t all
times. Shoes designed for wea=
r in
the shower, foam bottom shoes or house slippers of any type are not
permitted. Students must have
appropriate shoes for physical education.
Jewelry
–
Jewelry and accessories that may distract others and disrupt learning are n=
ot
permitted. Males are not perm=
itted
to wear earrings. Body pierci=
ng
jewelry and accessories of any type except earrings for females are not
permitted for both males and females.
Tattoos
– No
visible tattoos are permitted at anytime.
Other &=
#8211;
Sung=
lasses
(unless required for a documented medical condition) are not to be worn ove=
r a
student’s eyes in the building or during physical education. Hats,
visors, beanies, and other headgear are not be on worn on school grounds
between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. except on designated casual
days. Hats, sunglasses, and n=
on-PCA
outerwear may be worn during PCA approved events that occur after school
hours.
Casual =
Days
– Casual
days will be granted based on the number of dress code violations during ea=
ch
month. Casual days will only be authorized by the president or principal. On
casual days, items worn must not be offensive or immodest.
THREE
PILLARS OF EXCELLENCE
Pr=
attville
SPIRITUAL
PCA is committed to biblical principles and seeks=
to
articulate those principles in ways that instill an active faith in God and=
a
desire to imitate the character of Jesus Christ as revealed in Scripture wi=
thin
each student. Every part of t=
he
student’s school day will reflect the purposeful discipline that is
necessary for Christ-likeness.
Daily Bible instruction is a part of each student=
’s
course of study from Pre K to 12th grade. Students will also attend chapel as
scheduled to reinforce biblical principles and provide life lessons for
success. The spiritual director will work closely with the student focus gr=
oups
to ensure that chapel meets the needs of the student body.
Christian education is an approach that carries w=
ith
it a Christian world view. Faculty and staff integrate faith in God and the
example of Christ throughout the curriculum.
PCA aspires to be non-sectarian in character, see=
king
always to be Christ-like, guided in relationships by gentleness and respect=
. Therefore, PCA welcomes all student=
s of
character and ability who share Christian values.
Throughout its existence, PCA has worked hard to
create a friendly and inclusive environment for students from a variety of
religious, ethnic, social, cultural, and geographic backgrounds. PCA feels a great responsibility to=
use
the God-given gift and knowledge of all students, faculty, staff, and alumn=
i as
each one seeks to show Christ to the world.
PCA promotes life-long learning and life-long
service. PCA will lend suppor=
t to
the growth, stability, and spiritual health of the body of Christ on earth =
as
Christian servants/leaders are trained to honor God and serve Christ in the=
ir
communities, the nation, and the world.&nb=
sp;
It is not our mission to introduce, propagate, or argue current
religious issues of the day. =
It is
not our mission to offend or judge anyone with regard to convictions and
practices. It is our mission =
to
nurture spiritual growth in each of our students, their families, and
ourselves.
ACADEMICS
Prattville
Grading Scale and Conduct
E =3D Excellent &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; A =3D 90-100
VS =3D Very
Satisfactory &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; B =3D 80-89
S =3D Satisfactory &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; &=
nbsp; &nbs=
p; C =3D 70-79
N =3D Needs Improvement &n=
bsp;  =
; &n=
bsp; D =3D 60-69
C =3D Consistency =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; F =3D 0-60
O =3D Often
U =3D Unsatisfactory
Textbooks
All
textbooks are furnished by PCA to all students and are the property of
PCA. The student and
parent/guardian are responsible for every textbook and any other materials
issued to his/her child.
Failur=
e to
pay PCA for a lost or damaged textbook will result in non-issuance of other
textbooks to the individual student for
the current school year. =
All
hardback textbooks must have a protective cover. Any student who has lost or excessi=
vely
damaged textbooks will pay the full replacement cost of the textbook or oth=
er
curricular material.
Computer
CD for Textbooks - If a student uses a CD for a textbook or burns a CD of t=
he
student textbook, the CD must be returned at the end of the year. If it is not returned, the student=
/parent
will be charged the full price of a new textbook.
Cheating
As sta=
ted
in the Code of Student Conduct within this handbook, cheating is not condon=
ed
at PCA. Students that are cau=
ght
cheating on an assignment, test, or an exam will receive NO CREDIT for the
assignment, test, or exam. A =
zero
will be given for the grade. =
In
addition, other disciplinary action may occur when deemed appropriate by the
principal.
Academic Curriculum
Books,
workbooks, and other materials required for class are issued to students at=
the
beginning of each applicable semester.&nbs=
p;
The cost to use these books is included in tuition. If a student damages any issued
materials so that they cannot be reissued or loses materials, parents will =
be
invoiced for the cost of purchasing new materials.
Promotions
There =
are
three important factors that are involved in student promotion: (1) academic progress, (2) the abi=
lity
of the child to handle the class work habits/expectations, and (3) the matu=
rity
level of the child. Some chil=
dren
may be able to complete grade level work or slightly below grade level work=
and
not be prepared for the next school year at PCA due to its challenging
expectations. PCA reserves the
right to retain a student in such circumstances even though he or she may n=
ot
be making failing grades.
Some
children may make satisfactory academic progress, but their maturity level =
may
not be commensurate with that of their peers. As a result, they may need to repe=
at a
grade. If such case occurs, t=
he parent/guardian
will be notified in writing.
PreK3-Kinderg=
arten promotions are based on academic, social, and/or emoti=
onal
maturity as determined by the school counselor, teacher, and administration=
. If
retention for any reason is recommended, parents/guardians will be notified=
in
writing. If a student is reta=
ined,
he/she will not be placed with the same teacher the following year.
Grades 1-6 promotions are based on the following criteria:
Students
who fail to meet three or more of the criteria listed above will be conside=
red
for retention in their current grade. If retention for any reason is
recommended, parents/guardians will be notified in writing. If a student is
retained, he/she will not be placed with the same homeroom teacher the
following year.
In Grades 1-6, individualized student needs will be tak=
en
into consideration for students that are not successful in phonics, reading=
, or
math. PCA administration may
recommend that the student be evaluated for hearing loss, visual deficits,
auditory processing deficit, learning disability, or other developmental
screening. The results of any
recommended testing will be taken into consideration prior to final retenti=
on
recommendation. Students are
allowed to repeat once in grades K-6.
Summer Tutoring
Studen=
ts
in grades 1-6 receiving a “D” or below in any CORE subject may =
be
required to seek 20 hours of summer tutoring by a PCA approved tutor in ord=
er
to continue on grade level the following school year. Parents are encouraged to seek sum=
mer
tutoring in any subject where a “D” is received regardless of P=
CA
recommendation.
Standardized Testing
A
standardized achievement test will be administered on an annual basis to gr=
ades
1-6.
School
ability tests are also administered to grades 2, 4 and 6 on an annual basis=
. Parents will be provided a copy of=
their
student’s test results at the end of the school year. Additional
Awards Ceremonies
In the spring, PCA will hold aw=
ards
ceremonies for PreK3 - 6th grade. Ceremonies will recognize students in
academics, citizenship, attendance, and subject area achievement. Grades for awards will be calculat=
ed
five (5) days prior to the scheduled awards ceremony. Perfect Attendance is defined as zero absences,=
zero
tardies, zero checking in, and zero checking out.
Honor Roll
Honor =
roll
will be compiled and sent to the Prattville Progress and/or Montgomery
Advertiser to print within one week of the ending date for all grading peri=
ods.
Names of students who make all “A’s” will be placed on
"All A" honor roll, and students who make no grade lower than a &=
#8220;B”
will be placed on the "A/B" honor roll.
Studen=
ts
with multiple discipline issues will not be placed on the honor roll.
Backpacks/Totebags
Students
PreK – 4th will use PCA totebags instead of backpacks. 5th-6th grad=
e will
use totebags or backpacks. Ro=
lling
backpacks are not allowed.
AT=
HLETICS
Athletic programs are
designed and conducted to promote teamwork and reinforce Christian leadersh=
ip
principles. Policies and rules governing the conduct of athletic prog=
rams
are contained in the PCA Athletic Handbook which parents are highly encoura=
ged
to review on the PCA web site, www.4pca.co=
m,
under the athletic tab.
PCA is a member of the
Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) and abides by its rules and
regulations. Students in grades PreK-6 are not eligible to play junior
varsity, junior high, or varsity sports at PCA. Elementary sports
programs available each year will be announced by e-mail in adequate time to
allow for registration.
=
=
Physical Education
=
Each student in grades PreK – 6 will rece=
ive
physical education daily.
=
PCA ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS
Student identification cards will be issued to all PCA
students and will be maintained by teachers in grades PreK-6. This card may be used for certain =
PCA
activities and will be required for daily lunch payment – see lunch
section for more details.
Before-school care<=
span
style=3D'mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial;letter-spacing:-.15pt'=
> will
be provided beginning at 7:00 a.m. for those students who must be dropped o=
ff
before 7:30 a.m. Any students
arriving before 7:30 a.m. will be sent to the before-school care program. Parents will be required to pay a =
daily
fee of $6.00 which will appear on the following month’s tuition
statement.
After-school care will
be provided for all elementary students who are not picked up by 3:30 p.m. =
to
ensure student safety and supervision. Parents will be required to pay a d=
aily
fee of $8.00 which will appear on the following month’s tuition
statement. Parents MUST proce=
ed to
the designated after-school program area and check the student out.
Late
fees for after-school care apply for all grades. A late fee of $3.00 per minute per=
child
will be assessed for every minute the student is in after-school care past =
5:45
p.m. After two occurrences of=
late
parental pick-up, the late fee increases to $5.00 per minute. Late fees will appear on the follo=
wing
month’s tuition statement.
Partners for Education (PFE)
The PFE works to improve the school through fundi=
ng
and organizing special events and organizing and funding special projects as
needed or requested.
The
The
Athletic Booster Club
The PCA Booster Club works to improve and support
athletic programs through funding and organizing special events and organiz=
ing
and funding special projects as needed or requested. The booster club is run in accorda=
nce
with established bylaws and is comprised of volunteers who give their time,
services, and talents.
The booster
club meets to organize and plan events throughout the year. The booster club is run by a board=
that
consists of officers and various committee chairpersons. Initial volunteer sign-up is done =
at the
initial meeting conducted at the beginning of the year and contacts are mad=
e as
needed during the year. The b=
ooster
club has been instrumental in providing needed funds and equipment to athle=
tic
programs and providing funding for projects not covered by athletic revenue=
. The booster club’s success in
contributing to the school is dependent upon the volunteers who sign up each
year. For additional informat=
ion,
please contact the booster club president through the school office.
=
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
=
&nb=
sp; =
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sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp; =
&nb=
sp;
HEALTH SERVICES
(Please also visit the Nurse=
217;s
page on the website for
additional health policies and
information.)
General Information
All
students will be required to fill out a Confidential Health Informat=
ion
form for the current school year. &nb=
sp;
This information will be kept in the student’s health file whi=
ch
will be located in the nurse’s station and used in the event of an
emergency. (All forms are ava=
ilable
through the website under Forms).
Medical Conditions
Parents
are welcomed and encouraged to discuss any medical conditions or health iss=
ues
concerning their child with the PCA school nurse. The school nurse will be hap=
py to
meet with you at any time to discuss your child’s health. All information will be kept
confidential. The school
nurse’s hours are 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. School nurse e-mail address is mgr=
imes@4PCA.com.
Medications
1. =
All
medication, with the exception of approved asthma or other breathing aerosol
treatments, must be delivered to the school by the parent or guardian. The medication will be stored in
nurse’s station. Failur=
e to
do so will result in disciplinary action.&=
nbsp;
As a protection to the student, the student WILL NOT be allowed to
transport medications to and from the school.
2. =
In
order for prescription medications to be given at school, an authorization =
form
must be completed by the prescriber and the parent. The authorization will be valid for=
the
current school year only. The
prescription medication must be delivered in a pharmacy labeled container w=
hich
includes the student’s name, prescriber’s name, name of medicat=
ion,
strength, dosage, time interval, route and date of medication discontinuati=
on
when applicable. Most pharmac=
ies
are happy to provide parents with duplicate prescription containers for sch=
ool
use.
3. =
Changes
in medication or medication dosage will require a new authorization form to=
be
completed. A written doctor=
8217;s
order will be required if the dosage changes from the dosage directions pri=
nted
on the prescription bottle. F=
or
example, if the bottle reads “1 tablet at lunch,” the school nu=
rse
will not be allowed to administer 1 ½ tablets without written author=
ization
from the physician.
4. =
For
a student to be approved to possess and self-medicate with an asthma inhale=
r or
asthma aerosol treatment, the parent or guardian, plus the student’s
physician, must complete the Asthma Self Administration Forms. The Asthma Self Administration For=
ms
must be renewed at the beginning of each new school year. We urge parents to keep an extra i=
nhaler
in the nurse’s station for back-up use. Please read “Requirements fo=
r Self
Administration of Asthma Medications or Other Breathing Medications by Stud=
ent” at the end of this section. (See website for asthma medication
forms)
5. =
The
first dose of new medications MUST be given at home, with the exception of
emergency medications; e.g., EpiPen injections.
6. =
Parents
are responsible for picking up any remaining medications at the end of the
school term or when medicine has been discontinued. A school official will dispose of
medications left at the school.
Over-the-Counter Medications
1. =
PCA
will no longer be stocking bottles of OTC medications in the nurse’s
station such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Neosporin, Cortisone Cream, Benadryl Cr=
eam,
etc. These medications must be
provided by the parent for their children, and a completed OTC authorization
with specific dosing instructions kept on file in the nurse’s station=
(forms
available on website). Parent=
s of
multiple children may bring one bottle as long as the medication is
age-appropriate for all children in that family.
2. =
For
storage reasons, please bring the smallest container of Tylenol, etc. to be
kept for your child(ren). All
medications brought in by parents for their child(ren) will be kept in a lo=
cked
cabinet in the nurse’s station, and will be used only for your child(=
ren). Small bottles, packets or tubes of
Tylenol or Ibuprofen sufficient for a 9-week period are recommended.
3. =
All
OTC medications must be age-appropriate and up-to-date. Please check the expiration date b=
efore
sending medications to school.
4. =
For
safety reasons, all OTC medications must be in the original, unopened
container, must show dosage directions by the manufacturer, and must be cle=
arly
marked with the child’s name.
For
example, if you bring in sinus medication for your child(ren), the medicati=
on
should be in the original box so that all the manufacturer’s directio=
ns
and warnings are visible. No =
pills
or tablets will be accepted or given if brought in loose in a Ziploc bag.
5. =
All
medications whether prescription or OTC, must be checked in at the front of=
fice
or nurse’s station.
6. =
The
nurse may not administer aspirin or any aspirin-containing product without
specific physician permission.
Aspirin usage by children and adolescents has been associated with t=
he
rare, but often fatal disorder, REYE’S SYNDROME. Even Pepto-Bismol, which contains
salicylate, an aspirin-like compound, must be given with caution. Children’s chewable Pepto do=
es not
contain any aspirin, but regular Pepto Bismol tablets (for ages 12 and up)
contain salicylate.
7. =
Absolutely
no Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or other OTC medication will be given if the child(r=
en)
does not have their own bottle in the nurse’s station and a completed
parent authorization on file.
Regular Benadryl and Benadryl cream will be kept in the nurse’s
station for emergency use only, and will not be given for allergy symptoms =
such
as runny noses, etc.
Parents
are to notify the school nurse or principal if, for any reason, the student=
has
been prescribed a narcotic medication that will be taken before school which
could alter the student’s ability to learn and/or concentrate on scho=
ol
work.
=
Immunizations
According
to Alabama Law (Section 16-30-4, Code of Alabama), each pupil shall
present an Alabama Certificate of Immunization upon enrollment. These certificates may be obtained=
from
your local physician or Health Department.=
All students entering kindergarten are required to have a Measles and
Chicken Pox Certificate of Immunization.&n=
bsp;
Immunizations will be checked periodically by the school nurse. Parents will be notified if any st=
udent
is found to have an expired immunization record. In the case of an expired immuniza=
tion
record, parents will have thirty (30) days to return a current immunization
record.
Requirements for Self-Administrat=
ion of
Asthma Medications or Other Breathing Medications by Students
The
self-administration of the asthma and other breathing related illness
medications by a student shall be permitted if the parent or legal guardian=
of
the student provides the following information:
1. =
Written
and signed authorization for the self-administration to the principal or sc=
hool
nurse. (Please see nurse or w=
ebsite
for this form).
2. =
Written
and signed acknowledgement that the school shall bear no liability and that=
the
parent or legal guardian shall indemnify and hold harmless the school and i=
ts
employees, representatives, directors, agents, or assignors of the school
against any claims that may arise relating to the self-administration of as=
thma
or other breathing related illness medications. Please see nurse or website for th=
is
form.
3. =
Written
medical authorization to the PCA office to confirm the following:
&=
nbsp; a. =
that
the student has been instructed in the proper self administration of the
medication.
&=
nbsp; b. =
the
name of the medication, purpose of the medication, dosage, frequency of use,
special instructions or circumstances under which the medication should be
administered, and the length of time for which the medication is prescribed
shall be identified. Please s=
ee
nurse or website for this form.
&=
nbsp; Once
all required documentation has been received by the school nurse and
acknowledged by the president, it shall be dated and permission shall be
granted for only the current school year in which permission was granted. Permission for subsequent years sh=
all be
granted provided all requirements and regulations are satisfied.
&=
nbsp; Upon
obtaining permission to self-administer asthma and other breathing related
medications pursuant to these guidelines, the student shall be permitted to
possess and self-administer approved asthma and other breathing related med=
ications.
Legal
reference: Section 16-1-29, <=
u>Code
of Alabama, as Amended.
In
order to maintain the most secure environment possible the following precau=
tions
will be enforced:
1. During
the school day (8:00 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.) the only open doors will be the
front entrances. All visitors=
must
enter through these doors.
2. All visitors must obtain a
“pass” in the office immediately upon entering the buildings. A visitor is anyone not recognized=
as an
employee of the school.
3. Classroom
doors will remain locked during the school day when children are in the
classroom. No visitors will be
admitted into the classroom without presentation of a “pass.”
4. Students
must become “brother’s keepers.” They must alert a teacher or other=
person
in authority when a fellow student is struggling and/or requires attention.=
SEARCHES
Student Lockers/Automobiles
Inspectio=
n of
student lockers and automobiles by school administrators will take place
whenever there is reasonable suspicion to believe illegal items which are
specifically prohibited by law, school policy, and regulations are present.=
The school
retains the authority to conduct routine patrols of student parking lots and
inspections of the exteriors of student automobiles on school property. The interiors of student vehicles =
may be
inspected whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe=
span> that illegal, unauthorized, and/or contraband materials are present.
Such patrols and inspections may be conducted without notice, without stude=
nt
consent, and without a search warrant.
Student searches
When poss=
ible,
parents will be contacted prior to a student being searched.
Principal=
s who
have reasonable suspicion to believe that a student is in possession of
weapons, illegal drugs, or items harmful to the student or the welfare of t=
he
student body have the authority to search the person and/or possessions of =
said
student.
Student searches involving outside personnel, d=
ogs,
and/or detection devices
Searches =
of
students, student lockers, and/or student automobiles which involve outside
(non-school) personnel, dogs, and/or detection devices will be conducted.
VISITORS=
Parents
are welcome at PCA at any time. All
meetings with administrators/teachers must be scheduled in advance. Parents will not attempt to meet w=
ith
teachers before or after school without an appointment as it disrupts their
daily schedule and affects classroom quality. Other visitors who wish to observe=
or
visit a classroom should notify the principal in advance. In
order to secure a safe environment,
EMERGENCIES
School Closing
In the ev=
ent of
school closing for any reason, PCA will notify all registered parents/guard=
ians
at all phone numbers and e-mail addresses listed in the SchoolCast system.<=
span
style=3D'mso-spacerun:yes'> This system will automatically sen=
d out
phone and e-mail messages to authorized parties as required.
PCA will =
also ask
media to broadcast or televise the details of the situation. Please listen to Mix 103, Montgome=
ry or
watch WSFA-Channel 12, Montgomery.
Updates may also be listed on the PCA website. Be aware that the decision to open/close sc=
hool
may differ from that of the area county schools.
Fire and
Weather Drills/Emergencies
There =
will
be both announced and unannounced fire, tornado, and emergency shutdown dri=
lls
during the year. Instructions=
for
evacuating the building, including the location to which teachers and stude=
nts
should go, will be posted in each classroom. During these drills (or in the eve=
nt of
an actual emergency), students must keep in line, stay together, walk (no
running), and remain silent. =
Students
are to remain with their classes throughout the drill.
Weather Watches/Warnings
In
the event a weather watch is issued, the president and principals will
closely monitor its location and will take action accordingly. If a weather watch is in effect at=
the
end of the regular school day, school will dismiss as usual.
In
the event a weather warning is issued, the president or designee will ta=
ke
action immediately following the school action plan. Under a tornado warning, students =
will
not be released via regular transportation plans (cars) provided the warnin=
g is
in effect at the time set for normal school activities, EXCEPT that students
may be released to student's parent/guardian, provided said parent/guardian
comes to the school to assume custody for his/her child.
School Lockdown
In
the case of any danger outside or inside the school, or when notified by law
enforcement agencies, a school-wide lockdown may be required. All staff mem=
bers
have been trained on detailed procedures that ensure the safety and securit=
y of
all students during a lockdown.
Once
the building is locked down, no one will be allowed to enter or leave the
school building for any reason until the all clear is given.
STUDENT
RECORDS
Student r=
ecords
are to be treated confidentially and should contain information that is
accurate, relevant, and appropriate.
The following applies to viewing these records: (Public Law 107-110)
1. Parent(s)/guardian(s) have the
right to inspect and review records, files, and data directly relating to t=
heir
children, including permanent record folder. A request to review such records m=
ust be
made in writing to the school principal.
2. Upon review of such records, =
the
parent/guardian, or eligible age student may request a hearing to challenge=
the
contents of such records if desired.
3. No personally identifiable
information regarding students will be released without the consent of
parent/guardian or eligible age student except to the following: a) school
personnel involved in the educational process, b) other schools in which the
student enrolls, or intends to enroll, or c) authorized administrative head=
of
an education agency.
4. Transcripts of permanent reco=
rds
will be sent to other schools in which a student enrolls or intends to enro=
ll
when requested by school officials or when requested by the parent/guardian=
or
eligible age student.
5. =
PCA will not release grades,
standardized test scores, or report cards until the account is paid in full=
.
**All oth=
er
requests for student records to be released must be accompanied by written
permission from the parent/guardian or eligible age student.
FUND RAISING
The president must approve all fund raising
projects regardless of the school organization sponsoring them. Students in elementary grades (Pre=
K-6)
are prohibited from door-to-door fund raising activities sponsored by the
school or by a school-related organization.
The PCA lunch program is provided to students and st=
aff
as a service to enhance the overall school program. Meals and snacks =
are
prepared by PCA staff in the PCA kitchen. Students may
purchase food from the lunchroom or bring their own lunches/snacks.
Parents should pack lunches for students that require a minimum of unpacking
time.
All vending machines will be turned off during the
period 10:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
There will be no microwaves provided for student use=
in
the lunchroom or school building. Students desiring hot lunches will =
need
to purchase food from the PCA lunchroom.
Lunch menus will be posted on the PCA web site, <=
/span>www.=
4pca.com, cafeteria tab.
Students may purchase meals daily by using their
student identification card. Parents will be billed for all lunch cha=
rges
at the end of each month, in arrears, by invoice that will be mailed with
tuition statements.
In emergenc=
ies
only, stude=
nts
may pay for lunch with cash in the PCA lunchroom. Buying lunch in this
way will be restricted to limit the amount of money transferred and kept in=
the
lunchroom.
Milk and fruit juices will be made available.
Students may also bring a thermos or individually packaged drink. Please do not send drinks with red =
dye or
carbonated drinks.
Parents are welcome to join their student(s) for lun=
ch.
Parents will be charged cash in the PCA lunchroom for lunch items they
purchase.
SCHOOL TRAFFIC
School Parking Lots
There
are three lots that service PCA parents:
§ Elementary east lot (closest to Interstate 65) for student drop off before school starts and visitor parking during the school day <= o:p>
§
Elementary building front lot only
AFTER school starts
§
The secondary building front lot o=
nly
AFTER school starts
There
are three lots that service staff and students:
§
Secondary school back lot for PCA
seniors only
§
Secondary west lot (closest to
§
PCA center lot (between the elemen=
tary
and secondary buildings) for faculty parking only. This lot will only be open before =
and
after school starts for safety
Before-School Care Drop Off (7:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.)
Enter the parking lot=
only
from the farthest west entrance (closest to
Morning Drop Off (7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.)
Enter the parking lot=
only
from the farthest east entrance (closest to I65). Two options are available for morn=
ing
drop off.
Express=
Drop
Off
The preferred method of drop off is to enter the
single lane directly adjacent the PCA sidewalk and proceed all the way to
the end of the lane. DO N=
OT
STOP UNTIL YOU HAVE GONE AS FAR AS POSSIBLE TO THE END OF THE LANE. When dropping off students in this=
lane
you MUST NOT exit your car for=
any
reason.
When using express drop off, remain in the right =
lane
of the center school exit and follow the directions of the traffic
coordinator.
Parent
Walk-In
For the safety of all concerned, parents MAY N=
OT
park and bring students in the building or drop students off in the lots
directly across from the elementary or secondary school between 7:30 a.=
m.
and 8:15 am. Parents that mus=
t exit
their car FOR ANY REASON to include walking students in the building,
must park in the elementary east lot (next to I65). When leaving from the elementary e=
ast
lot, do not drive in front of the school, proceed to the main school road a=
nd
exit left.
Afterno=
on
Pick-up
ALL parents are requested to pick up students in their car =
by
waiting in the car pick up lines described below.
If a condition exists that causes parents to exit
their car to pick up their students, they must park in the elementary east =
lot
and NOT in either lot across from the front doors of either building=
or
in the area between the two buildings for safety and traffic reasons. Paren=
ts
that must enter the building to pick up their students will not enter the f=
ront
office unless absolutely necessary.
They must show the number of their student to the counter staff thro=
ugh
the office window and then proceed directly outside to wait on their studen=
t.
Elementary students will not be checked out early after 2:30 p.m. (PreK and=
K
students) or 2:45 p.m. (1-6 students).
When picking up students in grades Pre K and K
beginning at 2:45 p.m., cars will form a line beginning at the front of the
elementary school building and going behind the school buildings on the road
provided. Cars must never be left unattended in the car line. Each car will have the student(s) =
number
that is provided by the office, clearly visible from the rear-view mirror.<=
span
style=3D'mso-spacerun:yes'> Students will be called individual=
ly out
of their classrooms, exit the school through the front entrance, and will be
loaded into cars under the direct supervision of assigned staff members.
When picking up students in grades 1-6 beginning =
at
3:15 p.m., cars will form a line on the road leading to the
Car pooling parents must have the car pick-up num=
bers
for all the students they are picking up.&=
nbsp;
If an elementary student has parental permission to ride with a
secondary student, the secondary student will be allowed, at 3:15 p.m., to =
walk
through the elementary halls to the child
Elementary students are not authorized to wait
outside the building for their ride.
If they are not called, they must proceed to after-school care. At 3:30 p.m., or when the car-pick=
-up
service is completed, ALL elementary students who are remaining will=
be
called to after-school care.
Parents picking up their student(s) from after-school care must park=
and
come inside the building to pick them up.
At 3:30 p.m., all elementary students in after-sc=
hool
care will be charged the set rate and are under the rules and regulations of
this program. See after-schoo=
l care
section for more information.
MOTORIZED VEHICLES
=
The speed limit on campus is 1=
5 mph
and will be strictly enforced.
Reckless driving will not be tolerated.
All
personal items must be marked.
Items found on campus should be turned in to the office. Lost articles that are not claimed
within a reasonable period of time will be discarded.
On
the first and the fifteenth school day of the month, all items in lost and
found will be given to charitable organizations.
GENERAL
POLICIES GOVERNING STUDENT EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
Parties
Teachers and room mothers m=
ay
at various times during the year schedule parties. It is acceptable and
appropriate for room mothers to plan parties in collaboration with classroom
teachers to celebrate holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, 100=
th
Day, End-of-School, etc.
PCA does=
not
celebrate Halloween.
PCA does=
not
sponsor dances.
PCA does=
not
sponsor pool/swimming parties at private residences or natural areas during=
the
school year for liability reasons.
Birthday Parties
With prior permission from the teacher, parents m=
ay
send food (e.g. - cookies or cupcakes) and drinks to school for their child=
's
birthday, as long as enough is provided for everyone in the class. Please do not send party favors or
"goody bags." The t=
eacher
must be notified in advance as to what items will be brought and will decid=
e on
the appropriate time to serve the food and drink.
Gifts During School Hours
PCA requests that special treats, gifts, or surpr=
ises
(e.g. balloon bouquets, flowers, etc.) for students not be sent to the scho=
ol
campus. If gifts or surprises=
are
delivered to PCA, they will remain in the office until the end of the school
day. The student is responsib=
le for
picking up the item(s) at the end of the school day.
Invitat=
ions
Invitations to parties outside of school may be g=
iven
out at school with the permission of the teacher and only if the entire cla=
ss
is invited or all of one gender. PCA is not responsible for any
non-sanctioned activities of any type.
Field trips form an important part of the learning
process for students at PCA. A
field trip release form will be provided for each field trip to be taken du=
ring
the school year. This form mu=
st be
signed and returned before a student will be permitted to participate in any
field trip. “Phone
permission” is not acceptable. In some cases, a field trip may be a
required assignment for a class grade.&nbs=
p;
Those students not participating may be required to complete an
alternate assignment. Parent participation in transporting and chaperoning
field trips is necessary and greatly appreciated. A “field trip chaperone
agreement” (available in the office) must be signed by each chaperone
participating in any field trip. A
copy of your current driver’s license and proof of insurance are also
needed in order to drive on the field trip. Funds =
will
not be collected using the PCA name, and meetings will not be held at school
for any trips planned by students that are not sanctioned by PCA.
Students are required to wear PCA shirts when on a
field trip. Grades Pre K R=
11; 3rd
will wear the purple PCA T-shirt. =
span>Grades
4-6 will adhere to the PCA dress code.&nbs=
p;
Teachers may require professional dress for certain field trips.
Student
trips will normally be no longer than one-day and will be organized with an
adequate number of adult chaperones to ensure management of students at all
times. Any field trips that a=
re
longer than one day will be presented to the principal for final approval by
the president before any action is taken to organize or conduct the trip.
Educational videos are often use=
d to
enhance and support curriculum.
These videos must be reviewed in advance by the teacher and deemed
appropriate for the class. Oc=
casionally,
videos are used for reward, motivation, etc., and are simply for entertainm=
ent
purposes. Again, these videos=
must
be reviewed by the teacher and must be appropriate for the class.
Any videos brought by a student m=
ust be
G-rated. Any
exceptions will be with the prior knowledge and approval of the president or
principal and parents of the involved students. Videos above G rating w=
ill
be reviewed by the teacher and approved by the administration, and a note w=
ill
be sent home to the parents allowing them to opt out of the video with an
alternative activity.
Student Activiti=
es
When considering all activities available to
students, PCA carefully safeguards the development and well-being of studen=
ts
by specifying age-appropriate activities.&=
nbsp;
This is accomplished through courses of study and lesson plans that
specify daily activities. Age
appropriate assessments and homework polices as stated in this handbook, are
also used to ensure this remains a carefully monitored priority.
&n=
bsp;  =
; &n=
bsp;  =
; &n=
bsp; Animals
Pets
(including dogs and other animals) may not be brought to school except when
pre-arranged with the president for a specific educational purpose. Animals are not allowed at school
functions on or off campus.
Student Picture/Name Use
PCA may use a student’s picture and/or name in
articles written for certain publications. If parents do not want stu=
dent
pictures/names used, they must notify the PCA Office in writing.  =
;
SCHOOL/OFFICE HOURS AND TUITION/FEES PAYMENT
School Hours of Operation
The
office is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Pre K
– Kindergarten classes begin at 8:15 a.m. and end at 2.45 p.m.
1
– 6 grade classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 3:15 p.m.
Each year parents will receive a Tuition/Fee Contract
that outlines their financial obligation for the school year regarding tuit=
ion
and fees. Monthly invoices and/or statements of account will be sent =
home
with students on the last school day of the month. Also, statements a=
re
posted on Edline on the first day of each month. Each family will nam=
e a
responsible party for their student’s account.
Financial transactions should normally be handled wi=
th
the office. Tuition payments are due on the first of each
month. Any payment received after the 10th of each month w=
ill
automatically be charged a late fee of $10.00. Please add this fee to
your payment if you know it will be late. If the late date falls on a
weekend or a holiday, the payment is due the Friday before. The school
cannot be responsible for the promptness of the U. S. Postal Service or any
checks sent with students through their teachers.
The safest way to have payments credited correctly a=
nd
on time is to drop them off personally in the office tuition box. Late
installment payments and/or charges incurred after the 25th of t=
he
month may not be reflected on the end-of-the-month statement, but will be
reflected on the following month’s statement. There is a $30.00=
NSF
charge for any check returned by the bank that is not covered by sufficient
funds. Excessive late fees or any returned checks will jeopardize a family's
standing with the school. The=
administration
reserves the right to place an account on a "cash only" basis. Any account delinquent more than one
payment may jeopardize a student's ability to return to PCA the following
month. If any account becomes delinquent, future attendance at PCA may
require an automatic draft be established as determined by the Office
Director.
In lieu of a school supply list, there will be a $10=
0 fee
for student classroom supplies.
2009-2010 Elemen=
tary
School Calendar
Aug. 3-5 =
Staff
In-service
Aug. 4 =
New
Student/Parent Open House
Aug. 6 =
First
Day of School
Aug. 10-14 Read=
ing/Math
Testing
Aug. 24-28 Grade
Level Parent Nights
Aug. 26-28 Scho=
ol
Pictures
Aug. 27  =
; Summer
Reading Party
Sept. 7  =
; NO
SCHOOL: Labor Day
Sept. 12 =
Bible
Bee
Sept. 21-25 Scholastic
Book Fair
Sept. 25 =
Spiritual
Emphasis Day
Oct. 2 =
NO
SCHOOL: Staff In-service
Oct. 5  =
; NO
SCHOOL: AISA Staff Conference
Oct. 8 =
End
1st Grading Period
Oct. 12  =
; NO
SCHOOL: Columbus Day
Oct. 14  =
; Reading
Counts Ribbon Awards
Oct. 19-23 Fall
Parent Conferences
Oct. 20  =
; 6th
Grade Program
Oct. 24  =
; Fall
Festival
Nov. 11  =
; Veteran’s
Day
Nov. 12  =
; National
Elementary Honor Society Induction
Nov. 16-20 1
Nov. 17  =
; 5th
Grade Program
Nov. 19  =
; AISA
Writing Contest Due
Nov. 23-27 NO
SCHOOL: Thanksgiving Holidays &n=
bsp;  =
;
Dec. 7-11 Reading/Math
Testing
Dec. 9 =
Reading
Counts Ribbon Awards
Dec. 14-17 PCA
Around The World Week
Dec. 18  =
; Spiritual
Emphasis Assembly
Dec. 18  =
; Last
Day of First Semester: noon dismissal
Dec. 19-Jan 4 NO SCHOOL: Christmas
Holidays
Jan. 4 =
NO
SCHOOL: Staff In-service
Jan. 5 =
School
Resumes for 2nd Semester
Jan. 5 =
Returning
Student Enrollment Begins  =
; &n=
bsp;
Jan. 18  =
; NO
SCHOOL: Martin Luther King Birthday
Jan. 26  =
; 4th
Grade Program
Jan. 26  =
; District
Spelling Bee
Jan. 27  =
; 100th
Day of School Celebration
Feb. 1 =
Current
Family Sibling Enrollment Begins
Feb. 9 =
3rd
Grade Program
Feb. 12-15 NO
SCHOOL: Staff In-service/President’s Day
Feb. 16  =
; New
Student Enrollment Begins
Feb. 16  =
; Science
Fair
Feb. 24  =
; District
Science Fair
Feb. 25  =
; Benefit
Dinner/Auction
Mar. 1-5 =
Scholastic
Book Fair
Mar. 1-5 =
Read
Across
Mar. 3 =
Reading
Counts Ribbon Awards
Mar. 9 =
2nd
Grade Program
Mar. 12 &n=
bsp; End
3rd Grading Period
Mar. 15-19 NO
SCHOOL: Spring Break
Apr. 2 =
Spiritual
Emphasis Day
Apr. 5 =
NO
SCHOOL: Weather Day
Apr. 6-9 =
SAT
Testing For Grades 1-6
Apr. 7 =
AISA
District
Apr. 16  =
; AISA
Elementary Choral Festival
Apr. 23-24 PCA
Drama Performance
Apr. 26  =
; NO
SCHOOL: Staff In-service
Apr. 29  =
; National
Elementary Honor Society Induction
&nb=
sp; =
May 3-7  =
; Spring
Parent Conferences
May 3-7  =
; Math/Reading
Testing
May 4 &=
nbsp; 1st
Grade Program
May 7 &=
nbsp; Field
Day – All Grades
May 13 =
Pre-K
3 Program/Awards
May 14 =
Pre-K
4 Program/Awards
May 18 =
Kindergarten
Program/Awards
May 19 =
Awards
Day Ceremony, gr. 1-6
May 20 =
Reading
Counts Ribbons
May 21 =
Last
Day of School Year: noon dismissal
May 24-25 Staff
In-service