Exception Clause

Admissions Procedure

Parents/guardians and student must:

         1. Visit the school and pick up application and handbook.

         2. Read through this handbook thoroughly.

         3. Request that your pastor fill out Pastor's Recommendation form (exception Pre-school student)

         4. Read and sign the Student Standard of Conduct, Corporal Release, and Medical Release forms provided with

             this handbook.

         5. Submit the application accompanied by the registration fee (non-refundable) and previous report card.

Following fulfillment of these requirements, parents/guardians and student will be contacted to arrange an interview with the Principle and/or Pastor. Parents will subsequently be notified of acceptance and then must:

         6. Schedule a day for Diagnostic testing.

         7. Submit a recent physical, birth certificate, and up-to-date immunization record to the office before school

             begins.

         8. Attend a Parent Orientation program at the beginning of school.

 Clearwater Christian College          Chipola College                                   University of West Florida

 Florida State University                 University of Alaska                             Warner-Southern College

 Troy State University                     University of Tampa                             University of Florida

 Liberty University                          Southeastern Bible College                   Houghton College

 LeTourneau University                   Tallahassee Community College

 Bryan College                               University of South Florida

VCA students have also qualified for some of the most difficult military technical training schools.

Standardized Achievement Tests

College Entrance Exams

          1. Give staff the benefit of the doubt.

          2. Realize that your child's reporting is emotionally biased and may not include all the facts.

          3. Realize that the school has reasons for every rule and that rules are enforced without partiality.

          4. Support Administration and call school for information.

When a student's attitude is not in accord with school policies and principles, he/she may be placed on probation. Parents will be called for a conference. If Administration feels student's attitude has not changed within two weeks, parents may be asked to withdraw the student.

Because of their testimony before younger children, high school students in particular are trained to adhere to the school's philosophy and Christ-centered program. This philosophy is outlined in Philippians 4:8, which instructs Christians to be involved in only those things which glorify Christ.

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (Phil 4:8 KJV)

VCA is dedicated to training children for life in a program of study and activities that are Christ-centered. We believe that "All things should be done decently and in order" and that our students should be taught to accept the responsibility to "Walk honorably before all men."

Discipline is maintained by staff in a firm, consistent, and fair manner; tempered with love. We endeavor to use discernment and good judgment. The staff encourages high standards of conduct in the Learning Center through kindness, love and a genuine regard for each student. Students are taught that the Lord Jesus Christ expects us to be discipline in all areas of life.

Children, obey your parents in all things; for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. (Col 3:20 KJV)

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves; for they watch for your souls,...(Heb 13:17a KJV)

Chasten they son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying. (Prov 19:18 KJV)

Demerits & Detention

The paramount rule at Victory is "do right; do not disturb." Demerits are earned for disturbances and broken rules. Three or more demerits in one day result in a detention after school:

                                     3 demerits = 15 minutes detention

                                     4 demerits = 30 minutes detention

                                     5 demerits = 45 minutes detention

                                     6 demerits = 60 minutes detention

                                     7 demerits or more may result in corporal correction

When a student receives a detention, a Corrective Action Notice is sent home with the student. The notice must be signed by parents and returned to the Teacher the next day. Detention time will be served that day.

Demerits are an indication that a student may need direction in developing principles of character. Conferences with the Teacher, Principal, and parents are sometimes necessary to encourage this character development.

In-School Suspension

If Administration feels that detentions are not achieving the desired result, a student may be placed on In-School Suspension for a specified period of time, not to exceed five days. Parents will be notified if this occurs. In-School Suspension means that the student will be separated from other students in the Learning Center. He/she will be assigned increased academic work and not allowed to participate in non-academic activities.

Corporal Discipline

1. The offense will be investigated and then thoroughly discussed with student.

2. A staff member will discuss spiritual applications with student.

3. A reasonable number of firm strokes, not to exceed 3, will be administered at school by a staff member using a

    simple, flat paddle. Students 7th Grade and above will be paddled by a member of the same sex.

4. A staff witness will be present.

5. Student will not be physically restrained.

6. After applying the strokes, the person administering the correction will pray with the student and assure

    him/her of their love.

7. A written report will be made of the date, offense, number of strokes, name of individual administering the

    correction, and name of staff witness. A copy of the report will be sent home to parent and one will be placed

    in the student's permanent record.

Note: When Corporal Correction is deemed necessary, it will be administered as soon as possible after the offense to ensure effectiveness. Parents are not notified prior to a paddling.

Suspension & Expulsion

If Administration determines that a student's misbehavior is serious enough to warrant suspension or expulsion, a conference will be called with the parents. Such misbehavior includes, but is not limited to, those listed in the Standard of Conduct section of this handbook. The student will be permitted to relate his account of a matter and an attempt will be made to follow Biblical guidelines in determining what course of action is best for the student, while maintaining the integrity of the school.

School Hours

School begins at 8:00 AM and dismisses at 3:00 PM. However, on Wednesdays school dismisses at 2:00 PM to allow time for staff meetings and church attendance.

Absences

A written excuse signed by a parent or guardian must be presented to the Teacher when a student returns to school after an absence. If the absence is foreseeable, a note should be sent in advance. Non-emergency appointments should be scheduled after school hours.

Absences are not excused until the teacher receives a satisfactory explanation for the parent. Absences are normally excused for illness, death in the family, hazardous driving conditions, or other emergencies. Absences for other reason are not excused unless arrangements have been made in advance with the teacher, and the student is not behind in his school work. If the teacher is unsure as to whether the absence can be classified as excused he/she should consult the Principal.

Absences and tardies, whether excused or unexcused, are an  important part of each student's cumulative record, so accurate records are a must. Unusual absenteeism will be reported to the County Truancy Officer. Since more than ten unexcused absences may result in a student's expulsion, the teacher must alert both the parents and the Principal of the existence of each unexcused absence.

A student will be counted absent who has not been in school at least 3.5 hours in a school day.

Tardiness

A student is considered tardy if he is not in class at 8:00 AM. A detention will be given for tardiness. A student who arrives after 8:00 AM or leaves before the end of the school day must sign in/out in the office. Continued tardiness will necessitate a conference with parents and Principle, possibly leading to revocation of student privileges and/or to suspension.

Early Dismissal

Students are permitted to leave early only with written permission from parent/guardian and must sign out in the office.

Students may be dropped off at 6:30a.m. and may remain until 4:00 PM. Children will be supervised by an adult or a responsible high school student. Children who are dropped off before 7:30 AM or picked up after 3:15 PM must be enrolled in the Before/After School Care program and pay a child care fee. Please contact the school office regarding cost.

Drop Off/Pick Up

Students should be dropped off and picked up behind the church building and must stay on cement pad or in picnic area until bell rings at 7:55 a.m. and until ride arrives after school. Please drive carefully and abide by the 15 mph speed limit on school property.

School Closings

A yearly schedule, which indicates holidays, early release days, etc., is provided with this handbook. Closings due to inclement weather will not necessarily follow the closings of the schools in the four county area we serve. Tune in to WJNF (88.3 FM) or WTYS (94.1 FM) in Marianna for information about school closings.

Victory Christian Academy students wear uniforms to school. All our uniforms are to be ordered from the VCA ofiicial uniform provider. For ordering information, please call the school office.  Uniforms ordered must meet the general school guidelines for modesty.  That is, they must be loose-fitting, properly hemmed, worn at the natural waistline, and so forth.

Students must arrive at school in uniform and are not permitted to change clothes after school unless permission is specifically granted by their teacher. Uniform shirts must be buttoned at all times, with the exception of the top collar button which may be left undone if the student desires.  VCA does not have a required uniform jacket. Students should not wear pull-over sweatshirts, jackets, or sweaters that cover their uniform.

Boys in Learning Centers 1-6 must tuck in their shirts and must wear belts.  If girls choose to tuck in their shirts, they must also wear belts.  Students in the Pre-K through Kindergarten are not required to tuck or wear belts.

Students in the lower grades who are allowed to wear jumpers may wear turtle-neck tops as well as the uniform shirts with those jumpers.  Turtlenecks must be in the prescribed uniform colors, that is, white navy, dark green, khaki, or burgundy.

Sweaters worn with uniforms must also be in uniform colors and must button or zip (no pullovers.)

Male:

Hair: Hair must be kept neat and trimmed at all times. Hair must be trimmed at the top of the ear, not touching the collar in back. Sideburns may be no longer that the middle of the ears. No facial hair is permitted. Hair color must be a natural-looking hair color.

Jewelry: No earrings, visible body piercing, or other body rings are permitted on male students. Other jewelry must be conservative and minimal. No more than one or two bracelets or necklaces may be worn at one time. No visible tattoos permitted.

Female:

Make-up and jewelry: Both should be conservative and minimal.

Jewelry, hair, and clothing styles suggestive of the counter-culture or the occult are unacceptable and may not be worn. Hair color must be a naturally-occurring color. One or two earrings may be worn in each earlobe, and no other visible body piercings or tattoos are allowed. No more than (2) bracelets or necklaces permitted to be worn at one time.

Pre-K through LC1 girls should wear shorts under their uniform jumpers to maintain modesty while playing in the playground or in the gym.

Shoes

Student's shoes should be such that a student is safe when walking on stairs, sidewalks, etc. Shoes with high heels are not safe. We also wanted shoes to look attractive with our school uniforms, as we want out students to look neat and tidy from "head to toe."

Therefore, we are permitting and encouraging students to wear tennis shoes or "Keds" style shoes. Tennis shoes that are acceptable are ones with the standard shoe colors (i.e. white, black, brown, blue, gray). Some examples of unacceptable colors are green, yellow, neon, purple, etc. Standard shoe colors will look nice with our uniforms while some of the wilder colors will not.  Shoes which "light up" are also not allowed.  Please be conscious of these considerations when shopping.

Boys:

• May wear tennis shoes, deck shoes, dress shoes and western-style boots in good repair.

• May NOT wear flip-flops, sandals, backless shoes.

• Must wear socks with shoes.

Girls:

• May wear tennis shoes, dress shoes, dress sandals (with straps)

• "Keds" style canvas shoes.

• May NOT wear flip-flops, beach shoes, sandals without strap across back or high-topped tennis shoes (with skirts.)

Dress Down Days:

Periodically, students will be permitted to "dress down" for a special day or for a reward. The first Friday of every month is a dress down day for Pre-K through Learning Center One.  Learning Centers 2 -  may "purchase" a dress down with merits (usually 500 merits.)

On Dress Down days, boys & girls may wear:

• Tennis shoes, slacks, jeans, T-shirts, and long shorts (within 2"-3" of knee).

• All must be neatly hemmed and have a professional appearance. Waist bands must be at natural waist (no hip-huggers).

• Apparel must be Modest, Conservative, and Loose-fitting.

• Shirts/tops must have inset sleeves. They should also be long enough so as not to show skin or undergarments with normal reaching, sitting, or bending.

• Dresses and blouses must be loose-fitting and must come to the neckline in front, (clavicle bone), and to the bottom of the neck in back, with no see-through material or trim.

• Dresses and skirts must be loose-fitting with hemlines no higher than the middle of the knee. Slits in dresses and skirts may open no higher than the middle of the knee.

• Shoes or sandals (as described in regular dress code) or tennis shoes may be worn. No flip-flops.

• Christian T-shirts with Godly messages may be worn.  No names of "Christian" rock groups may be displayed.

• Modest and reasonable sports team apparel may be worn.

Students may NOT wear the following:

• Any tight-fitting clothing

• Any clothing that is sheer or see-through in any way

• Cargo pants or shorts

• Camouflage shirts, slacks, or shorts

• Flip-flops

• Pants, slacks, or shorts with printing. (Logos addressed separately below.)

Any printing or brand logo must be tasteful, discreetly placed, and no more than 2-2 1/2 inches in diameter. Neither should any print or logo glorify un-Godly ideas or values.

A Dress Code Violation not will be issued on the first violation, providing the clothing worn is modest and guidelines were not properly understood. If a clear violation of dress code is evident, a detention will be issued. Detention time will double if the same area of dress code is violated again. If a student comes to school immodestly dressed, his or her parents will be called to provide a change of clothing or to take the student home in order to change.  Students who repeatedly violate the dress-down dress code may lose that privilege permanently.

Important Note: These guidelines are to be adhered to at school and at all school functions, including, but not limited to, field trips, fund-raisers, awards ceremonies and banquets, graduations, and all ball games. For certain special occasions, such as the Jr./Sr. banquet, administrations will provide specific written guidelines applicable to that particular event. Students who fail to meet all guidelines as stated here will not be allowed to participate in any of these events until the dress code guidelines are met.

As an incentive to promote learning achievement, VCA has established a privilege program. Each student may earn higher levels of privilege as he demonstrates greater levels of responsibility. The three levels of privileges are indicated by the initials of the school name: "V-C-A". The lowest level of privilege is "V" privilege, the highest privilege level is "A".

Level "V" Responsibilities

1. Complete 1.5 PACE's/units per week during current quarter

2. Maintain academic balance

3. Accumulate no more than 45 minutes of detention in the previous week

4. Memorize and recite monthly Scripture selection

Level "V" Privileges

1. Morning breaks of 15 minutes (instead of 10)

2. May read approved literature after lunch when goals are completed and engage in approved extra-curricular activities (eligible for sports).

Level "C" Responsibilities

1. Complete 2 PACE's/units per week during current quarter

2. Maintain academic balance

3. Accumulate no more than 35 minutes of detention in preceding week

4. Memorize and recite the monthly Scripture selection

5. Present a monthly oral report

Level "C" Privileges

1. Morning breaks of 25 minutes

2. May read approved literature in office

3. May ask Teacher's permission to go to "privilege room" after lunch

4. May be out of seat without permission for Learning Center functions

5. May participate in approved activities: errands, office aid, etc.

Level "A" Responsibilities

1. Same of Level "C" #1, 2, & 4

2. Accumulate NO minutes of detention in preceding week

3. Read an approved book and give both a written and an oral oral report

4. Memorize and recite the monthly Scripture selections

5. Must be involved in some form of Christian service on a regular basis at school.

Level "A" Privileges

1. Same as Level "C" PLUS

2. May leave office and Learning Center for approved activity or projects under supervision of staff

3. May attend approved off-campus functions of a spiritual, educational, or family nature with supervision.

Students who believe that they have fulfilled the responsibilities for a level of privilege should assume responsibility for filling out an Application for Privilege on the Friday preceding the anticipated week of privilege. The privilege application must be completed and submitted that Friday.

Merits

Students may earn merits for exceptionally good or responsible behavior. These merits may then be "spent" throughout the year. For example, students may use merits to purchase items from the Merit Store, buy a "dress down" day, or buy an occasional special treat.

General

1. Students are not permitted to speak or be away from their office without permission. No turning sideways or  around in office or tipping back in chair.

2. Activities not related to prescribed material are not to be conducted in office unless privilege has been earned.

3. The American flag should be raised for Teacher guidance in academic difficulties. The Christian flag is to be raised for teacher aide assistance in non-academic activities (scoring, getting checkup signed, sharpening pencil, etc.). Personal questions should be asked at break time.

4. No resource books may be taken home.

5. Gum is not allowed on school property.

Student Offices

1. Offices are assigned and changed only by the Teacher and must be maintained in a tidy fashion.

2. Items placed in office must be pre-approved by the Teacher.

3. Students are not to sit on work surface of office nor lean against dividers.

4. Goal Card is to be posted at all times. Card must be kept neat and up-to-date, using a blue pen. A fee of $1.00 will be charged for replacement of a defaced card.

5. The Progress (Star) Chart is to be posted at all times and no marks are to be made on it.

PACE's

1. All curricula are the property of the school and are NOT to be shared among students.

2. Final tests will be taken the day following completion of the unit. Results will be reported the next day and a new unit issued.

3. All work is to be done in pencil unless otherwise instructed.

4. Work in English and Word Building PACE's must be done in cursive beginning with PACE 1025 and in Social Studies and Science beginning with PACE 1031. Computation must be shown in Math and Science PACE's.

5. Use of calculators is not permitted until Math PACE 1073.

6. If a student fails to pass a final test, he will be issued a new (repeat) unit and the family account will be charged $5.00.

Scoring Stations

1. Score Keys are to be handled carefully and returned to proper place. Score Key answers are for scoring work only.

2. Mark a red "X" beside each wrong answer. Red pens are NEVER to be at student office.

3. Correct wrong answers in pencil at office.

4. When rescoring, circle each red "X" in red when answer is correct. Circle in red each page number when all answers are correct on the page.

5. Repeat steps two and three until all answers are correct.

Testing Table

After the PACE/LIFEPAC is completed, scored, restudied, and turned in, the test is administered the next morning. Tests are taken at the Testing Table.

The responsibility for scholastic achievement is placed on the student. It should not be necessary for most students to take academic work home. In most cases, daily goals set by the student and reviewed by the Teacher will be no more than the student is capable of completing during the school day. Should the student not complete his goals, he will be required to complete the work at home or after school in the Learning Center. Should the student need to take work home, it will be indicated in the student's Planner. The Planner page is to be signed by a parent and returned tot he Teacher the following day.

Each month the student body is assigned a Scripture passage to memorize. A predetermined number of verses from the passage must be recited to the student's Teacher each week with not more than five errors or prompts. The entire passage must be recited by the last Friday of the month. A minimum requirement for quarterly and yearly Honor Roll is that students recite weekly verses on time at least 5 out of nine weeks.

VCA's grading system is designed to give parents a true indication of the student's progress. Progress Reports are sent home with students on the Friday following the end of each nine week quarter. Parents should keep the Progress Report but sign the student's planner indicating that they were received.

Teachers will send home a three-week and six-week Progress Update. This will indicate what units a student has successfully completed and what he/she must complete in order to earn Honor Roll.

When a student begins the ninth grade, an Academic Projection for Graduation will be plotted with the student and his/her parents present. This projection will be reviewed annually. Student will be classified as Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior based on the number of core curriculum (4 core subjects plus Bible) credits remaining until graduation, not on the number of years they have been in school This will be determined at the annual conference with parents of high school students. Students may pass from one level to the next at any time during the year.

To be considered a:                                                                                    a student must have:         

Freshman                                                                   more than 16.5 core curriculum credits left

Sophomore                                                                 less than 16.5 core curriculum credits left

Junior                                                                        less than 11 curriculum credits left

Senior                                                                        less than 5.5 core curriculum credits left

Students who choose this category are those who have the ability to prepare for college. Careful consideration should be given to the entrance requirements of the type of colleges they plan to attend. Courses will vary among students. College catalogs should be referenced by candidates and parents to select specific courses that need to be completed in high school to meet specific college entrance requirements. College admission and financial aid applications should be obtained by the beginning of student's senior year. The following course of study is adequate to prepare most students for college studies.

Subject:                                                                                                                 Minimum Credits Required

Math

Algebra I (R), Geometry (R), Algebra II (R)                                                                                            3

English

English I (R), English II (R), English III (R), English IV (R)                                                                     4

Social Studies                                                                                                                                     4

World History (R), American History (R), World Geography (R),

Civics (1/2 credit) (R), Economics (1/2 credit) (R),

State History (1/2 credit) (R)

(Students will need to take state history if they

have not previously completed it.)

Science                                                                                                                                               3

Biology (R), Physical Science (R), Chemistry (R), Physics (O)

Etymology (O)

Bible                                                                                                                                                   3

New Testament Survey (R), Old Testament Survey (O),

Life of Christ (O), New Testament Church History (O),

Bible & Science (O), Proverbs (O), Foundations for Living (O)

Keyboard (R)                                                                                                                                      1/2

Computer Literacy (R)                                                                                                                        1/2

Health (Life Management Skills) (R)                                                                                                      1/2

Speech (R)                                                                                                                                         1/2

Music Theory (R)                                                                                                                                1/2

Foreign Language (O)                                                                                                                       1 or 2

Physical Education (R)                                                                                                                      2 or 3

Electives                                                                                                                                              ?

                                                                                                   Minimum Total Credits = 26

For the optional courses of Physics, and Spanish, the final course grade will be curved one letter grade because of the difficulty level of the course.

Math

General Math (up to 2), Algebra I (R)                                                                                                   3

Geometry (O), Business Math (O), Consumer Math (O)

English

General English (up to 2), English I (R), English II (R)                                                                          4

Social Studies                                                                                                                                   4

World History (R), American History (R),

Civics (1/2 credit) (O), Economics (1/2 credit) (O),

World Geography (O), State History (1/2 credit) (R)

(state history required if not previously completed)

Science                                                                                                                                             3

Earth Science (O), Biology (R),

Physical Science (O), Geographical Science (O)

Etymology (O)

Bible                                                                                                                                                                

New Testament Survey (R), Old Testament Survey (O),

Life of Christ (O), New Testament Church History (O),

Proverbs (O), Foundations for Living (O)

Keyboard (R)                                                                                                                                  1/2

Computer Literacy (R)                                                                                                                    1/2

Health (Life Management Skills) (R)                                                                                                   1/2

Physical Education (R)                                                                                                                   2 or 3

Electives                                                                                                                                           ?

                                                                                                             Minimum Total Credits = 24

Note: In Math and English, students should strive to complete as much work as possible above the minimum requirements. Conventionally taught classes such as choir, band, discipleship, etc., may earn elective credit.

Vocational Preparatory Diploma

VCA also offers a Vocational Preparatory Diploma. To earn this, a student must have completed at least through 8th grade in all subjects and have earned 24 credits. Students who graduate with this are also encouraged to take the GED test before entrance into college.

*Any two courses equals 1/2 credit

Opening Assembly

Students will participate in an opening assembly several times a week where pledges are recited, a devotional is presented, and announcements are made.

Devotions

Each day, students are given a minimum of 10 minutes to study the monthly Scripture passage and/or have a quiet time with the Lord.

Chapel

Weekly chapel services are held each Wednesday during which time students are challenged to discover how God's Word applies directly to his/her life. Local pastors, business men, and staff members preach and teach the Word of God.

Students must bring a Bible to all devotional, chapel, and special meetings.

Christian Americanism places emphasis upon the greatness of America's heritage and the sacrifices of her heroes. America's constitution guaranties liberties to educate in order to preserve freedom. We unashamedly teach the Biblical doctrines of self-discipline, respect for those in authority, obedience to the law, and their natural outgrowth, which is love for our flag and our country.

Pledge of Allegiance to the Bible

I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word. I will make it a lamp unto my fee and a light unto my path. I will hide its words in my heart, that I might not sin against God.

Pledge of Allegiance to the Christian Flag

I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag, and to the Savior for Whose kingdom it stands. One Savior, crucified, risen, and coming again, with life and liberty for all who believe.

Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Student Organizations

Several organizations and clubs for students provide opportunity for school spirit and Christian service. Student Government Association (SGA), Yearbook, Journalism, Athletics, Drama, Music, and others. All activities and student/parent notices must be approved by the Principal.

Music

VCA offers a quality music program which includes both vocal and instrumental music. The choir and the male quartet won first place in international competition in 1997, and the ensemble placed first in international competition in 1998. Mrs. Myra Pipping offers piano lessons during the school day.

Sports Teams

VCA is a member of the Panhandle Christian Conference. This is an organization of Christian Schools from the Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama. VCA participates in the following sports as schedule and personnel allow:

Boys: Soccer, Basketball, Baseball

Girls: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball

Eligibility to play on a sport team is open to 6-12th grade students and is based on a student's earning "V" privilege.

During the 1997-1998 season, VCA's varsity basketball team won the conference championship and placed seventh in the National Association of Christian Athletics finals held in Dayton, TN.

A most exciting and rewarding event for students each year is the annual A.C.E. Convention. Students who have reached the age of thirteen by December 31st are encouraged to prepare for competition in any of more than 130 events in the areas of academics, athletics, music, platform, and arts & crafts. Contestant guidelines are available to assist students in preparing for competition. Preparation begins in the fall.

General Rules & Information

Gifts, certificates, plaques, and trophies are awarded at the Annual Awards Banquet held at the end of each school year. An Athletic Awards ceremony is also held either at the end of the season or at the end of the year. Students work during the year to earn such awards as:

Christian Character Award - Upper level High School boy and girl

Student Values Award - Student chosen by teacher who show 7 ideal character traits of a student

Highest Subject Average - Students in each class who have the highest average in an individual subject.

"A" Honor Roll; "B" Honor Roll - Students who complete a year's work in all subjects with an "A" or "B" average

Scripture Memorization - Students who have recited the weekly Scripture on time every week

Outstanding Achievement - Students who have completed 120% of a year's work

Perfect Attendance - Students who have attended school every day

Individual Character Awards

NSDAR Good Citizenship Award - To a fifth grade student for good citizenship

Woodmen of the World American History Award - High School student for highest grade in American History.

Books/Magazines/Music/Misc. Items

Books and magazines must be approved by the Teacher upon arrival at school or they will be confiscated.

Students are not allowed to bring radios, cassette tapes, CD's, i-Pods, or any other electronics intended for music-listening to school or on the buses unless prior permission has been granted. Only music which glorifies the Lord is to be discussed or played while at school or at school functions.

Guns, matches, knives, laser pointers, and fireworks are not permitted on school property. Such items will be confiscated and not returned to student. Students may be suspended for possession of above items on school property or at school functions.

Cellular Phone Use

Students are allowed to have cell phones under the following conditions only:

• Phones are to be kept in the "OFF" position at all times, including while traveling on any VCA bus.

• Phones are to be kept in book bags, not on a student's person.

• Phones may be used only in cases of extreme emergency (e.g. an accident) or when a student traveling back after a ball game is given specific permission by a staff person to call ahead for his or her ride.

Closed Campus Policy

VCA has a closed-campus policy. Students may not leave school grounds during school hours without permission. Visitors are not permitted on school property without first checking in at school office.

Dual Enrollment

VCA has a dual enrollment policy with Chipola College. Students who have met the academic requirements may be eligible to attend Chipola during their senior year and earn high school and college credit for the course. Please check with office regarding courses that may be taken.

Emergency Drills

VCA will conduct emergency drills at least twice yearly.

Educational field trips will be scheduled periodically to enhance student education. A field trip is also scheduled at the end of each quarter for students who achieve Honor Roll.

A Fee Schedule, which details all fees for the school year, is available from the school office.

A statement will be sent home in the Communication Envelope or Student Planner at the beginning of each month. The envelope must be signed and returned the following day. Payment is due by the 10th, and a late fee will be assessed if not received by the 15th.

If for any reason you are unable to make your monthly payment, please call the Administrator or the Financial Secretary to make other arrangements for payment. Students whose accounts are not paid by the 15th will be dismissed.

If for any reason you should withdraw your child from school, or if we would ask you (for disciplinary reasons) to withdraw your child, all moneys paid, including curriculum fee, registration, and tuition are non-refundable.

VCA reserves the right to use funds generated by school fees in any way we deem appropriate or necessary.

Academic records will not be forwarded to another school until any outstanding balance on the account is paid in full.

Graduation

Seniors will be charged a graduation fee, which covers the cost of cap, gown, and diploma. An invitation will be selected by the senior class and approved by the Principal. Seniors will be responsible for the cost of invitations. Senior parents are responsible for planning and paying expenses for the reception. VCA, however, will furnish the cakes. All plans must be approved by the school Principal.

Valedictorian and Salutatorian are chosen two weeks prior to graduation. Students must have completed the College Preparatory course of study and must have completed at least 10 core curriculum credits at VCA. They also must have the highest GPA's in the senior class.

"Hands off" Rule

Except for supervised contact sports, students should maintain an appropriate distance (usually a minimum of six inches) from other students at all times. No physical contact will be allowed between members of the opposite sex. Demerits, paddling, and/or suspension will result, depending on the severity of the offense.

Insurance

Parents are responsible to provide accidental insurance coverage for school and school functions.

Lawsuits

We believe the Bible says that lawsuits between believers are wrong; thus VCA agrees not to sue believers, and parents agree not to sue VCA for any reason.

Lost & Found

The lost and found department is operated from the school office. A handling charge of 25 cents will be made for each article recovered through lost and found. At the end of each week, all items that have not been claimed will become the property of the school.

Lunch

Students may bring lunches or purchase pre-packaged food items from the concession stand. Microwaves are available for heating food. Students may also purchase sodas, milk, juices, chips, etc. Students 6th grade and younger are not permitted to eat snacks with high sugar content or drink caffeinated sodas until after school has been dismissed in the afternoons. Students should eat in assigned areas and properly dispose of trash before leaving area.

No staff member will be allowed to administer medications (including prescription) to any student for headaches, fever or other reasons without parental authorization in writing. All prescription medications must be kept and administered in the school office. Students are permitted to have one dose of non-prescription medication in their possession.

Staff is trained in First Aid and will treat minor injuries when necessary. Generally, parents will be called only in case of an emergency or when their child is vomiting and/or has a temperature.

No student who has a temperature, head lice, or other contagious condition or illness should attend school.

A Medical Release form for emergency medical treatment must be signed and submitted to school office.

Off-Limits

Other student offices or Learning Centers

School office (except for official business)

Automobiles and parking areas during school hours

Locker rooms unless specific permission has been granted

All Victory Baptist Church Buildings

P.E. classes meet twice weekly. No student may be excused from the required P.E. course without a doctor's written excuse.

The school P.E. uniforms must be worn for P.E. class and my be purchased in the school office. Detentions may be given if a student fails to be in a complete P.E. uniform each P.E. period. Uniforms should be taken home each day and washed.

Students are not to use school equipment except during planned or authorized activities.

Parent/School Relations

Parent orientation and conferences promote good understanding between parents/guardians and faculty/administration of the school. Every parent is expected to participate in these informative and helpful meetings. In addition, parents are welcome to visit the school at any time, provided they check in at the school office upon arrival. We also urge parents to commit to praying for the school every day.

VCA schedules a Parent Night Meeting at the beginning of the school term and at the end of each quarter. At these times, parents are encouraged to discuss the progress of their student with his/her Teacher. Parent conferences other than at these times will be set up on an individual basis as needed.

Parties

Off-campus parties are not school-sponsored unless parents receive a notification letter from the Principal.

Re-enrollment

Students must re-enroll in order to reserve seating for the next term. However, it should be understood that re-enrollment is a privilege and not a right.

School Photographs

School photographs are taken twice yearly. Students are required to be in dress code for school pictures. The fall picture will be entered in the yearbook. Picture packages are made available for parents to purchase.

School Property

Defaced, missing, or broken property will be replaced at the offending student's expense.

Scholarships

VCA participates in several scholarship/voucher programs. The McKay Scholarship for Students with Disabilities provides a scholarship for a student with a diagnosed disability to attend a participating private school. For more information, go to www.opportunityschool.org.

The Florida Corporate Tax Credit Scholarship program provides nee-based scholarships for certain students wishing to attend a private school. For more information, go to www.scholarshipfunding.org.

Searches

VCA reserves the right to search a student's person and belongings when we have reason to suspect a student possesses an unapproved item. A search may be conducted without the student's or parent's permission. Registration of a student constitutes parental consent to such searches. Searches may be made of, but not limited to: automobiles, backpacks, purses, pockets, lockers, offices, and persons. Searched by staff will not violate standards of Christian modesty.

If Administration suspects the use of illegal drugs by a student, parents will be contacted and may be asked to pay for a drug test. Refusal to submit to a test or failure to pass the test will result in immediate expulsion without refund of fees.

Student Drivers

Students of legal age may drive their vehicles to school only after providing current driver's license and insurance information to the school office.

No student is allowed to ride with another to or from school or any school activity without the written consent of both the driver's parents and the passenger's parents.

Students must park in the parking area next to the soccer field, near the gym entrance.  Students must arrive at school in uniform and ready for school.  Students must leave their vehicles immediately upon arrival and not return to their vehicles until after school, at which time they are to leave the premises immediately.  Loitering in and around vehicles before, during, or after school is forbidden.

Student Work Schedule

Due to the degree of difficulty of the high school academic program, we strongly suggest that high school students not work more than 20 hours per week outside the home. If a student demonstrates difficulty in academics, we advise discontinuing outside employment.

Telephone

School phones are for official school business. A pay phone is provided for students use. Permission must be obtained from Teacher to use pay phone. Calls are $0.25 and students should keep quarters handy for phone use. Students may receive phone calls from parents only; however, parents should call for students to be taken out of class only in the event of an emergency.

Transportation

Automobile:

Students driving on campus must provide to office a copy of current valid driver's license and insurance.

No student will be permitted to ride to/from school or any school activity with another student without the written consent of both the driver's and passenger's parents.

Buses:

For an additional fee, VCA provides bus transportation to/from the Blountstown, Marianna, Grand Ridge, and Chattahoochee areas. Buses arrive at school at approximately 7:50a.m. and leave school at approximately 3:10p.m. The pickup and drop-off schedule may be obtained by called the school office. If no one is at the drop-off point to pick up the student, the driver will come back to school or to his/her house and attempt to call you from there so you know where to come and pick your child up. Also, you will be expected to pay the drive $10/hour for his/her time watching the student.

This service is a courtesy, and bus privilege may be revoked in the even of flagrant and/or continued misbehavior. All school rules apply while riding bus, and seating is assigned.

Visitors

Visitors are welcome but must adhere to clothing standards of VCA and must obtain permission from the office before proceeding to other areas of school property.

Contact office for up-to-date school supply lists.