Greenwood Christian

Academy

EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN A

CHRIST-CENTERED COMMUNITY

HIGH SCHOOL

PARENT - STUDENT HANDBOOK

835 W. Worthsville Road

Greenwood, IN 46143

Phone (317) 215-5300

Fax (317) 535-1070

Greenwood Christian Academy reserves the right to change any policy or procedureat any time if deemed to be in the best interest of the school.

A Letter from the Administration Team

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to Greenwood Christian Academy. Greenwood Christian Academy High School

welcomes you as a new or returning student. The teachers, administration, and staff are

excited about helping you and your students grow in their educational endeavors this school

year. The purpose of Greenwood Christian Academy has always been to provide young people

with an opportunity to receive a high-quality Christian education within a Christ-centered

environment.

The curriculum used at Greenwood Christian Academy is intended to prepare students for

college and life to encourage them to become lifelong learners and lovers of God, His work,

and this world. We provide an academically rigorous curriculum. Students with a strong

desire to go on to college, or advanced degrees, will thrive in the demanding academic

program utilized at our school. Information, rules, procedures, and the like are simply an

attempt to help the community operate smoothly and fairly, allowing for “true freedom” and

“personal responsibility” to be expressed and enjoyed within these boundaries.

We are looking forward to a terrific year together here at Greenwood Christian Academy. This

handbook has been compiled to answer the many questions that arise at the beginning of

school and throughout the year. Please take a few minutes to read the information so you will

be acquainted with the policies, procedures, and expectations at our school. Although it is

impossible to provide published policies that anticipate every situation, the contents of this

handbook provide a basis for understanding day-to-day issues.

The rules that guide student behavior and life at school were made in the interest of

maintaining an orderly environment and a Christian atmosphere in the school. School

personnel will do their best to apply the rules fairly and consistently. We are all called to

remember the words of Ephesians 5:20, “Submit yourselves one to another in the fear of

God.” and I Peter 2:13a, “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake.”

The pursuit of these goals must be a cooperative effort of students, teachers, administrators,

parents, and the community of believers. We believe that an effort to work together in these

areas will help us to provide a proper environment for every one of us to be able to

accomplish our goals. We expect that both students and parents will read the handbook and

keep it for reference should any questions come up during the school year. We believe that

diligent and prayerful efforts will be met with the blessing of God.

In God’s grace and mercy,

Your Administration Team

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OUR SCHOOL TAGLINE

Educational Excellence in a Christ-Centered Community

OUR SCHOOL BIBLE VERSE

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from

it.  Proverbs 22:6

OUR CORE VALUES

Respect - We are committed to teaching and modeling respect for God, His Word, His

creation, and others so that students will come to salvation in Jesus Christ and treat

their fellow citizens and the world with dignity and honor. Romans 12:10, 13:1-2

Integrity - We are committed to teaching, and modeling honesty, truthfulness, and

Biblical morality so that students can be trustworthy, valued, and contribute

positively to society.  Psalm 106:3, II Corinthians 8:21

Compassion - We are committed to teaching and modeling compassion so that

students can effectively share the gospel, minister to those in need, and consider

others as more important than themselves.  Mark 10:45, Philippians 2:3

Excellence - We are committed to teaching and modeling the pursuit of excellence in

all things for the glory of God.  I Corinthians 10:31

SCHOOL THEME 2021-22

Growing for God’s Glory

“And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to

follow him. Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him.

Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow

with thankfulness.”

Colossians 2: 6-7 (NLT)

.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOTICE: for the purposes of this STUDENT HANDBOOK, the name “Greenwood Christian Academy

Central School Corporation” will be identified by GCA unless the entire name is needed for legal

purposes. Also, whenever the term “he,” “him,” “his,” “chairman,” “vice-chairman,” comparable words

or expressions are used, it shall not limit the application thereof to the masculine gender. They are

used as terms of convenience and may include the feminine gender.

MISSION AND PURPOSE

GCA Mission Statement 8

GCA Vision Statement 8

GCA Statement of Faith 8

Family/School Agreement 8-9

Parent Statement of Cooperation 9

Expected Student Outcomes 10

SPIRITUAL ACTIVITIES POLICIES

Bible Verse Memorization 11

Bible Version for Classroom Use 11

Chapel Policy 11

Christian Training 11

Church Attendance 11

Evangelism of Students 11

Prayer

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND SERVICES

Building Neatness and Cleanliness 11

Bullying Prevention 12

Child Abuse Prevention and Neglect Policy 13

Chromebooks 13

Closed Campus 13

Authorization to Leave Campus 13

Visitors 13

Phone Calls 14

Messages, Deliveries, and Invitations 14

Cumulative Records 14-15

Directory Information 15

Emergency Drills 16

Emergency Pick up Procedures 16

Emergency School Closing 16

Family Educational Rights and Privacy (FERPA) 16

Field Trips 17

Lockers 17

Lunches 17

Personal Electronic Devices 18

Pesticide Notification Registry 18

Reporting Serious Incidents Procedures 18

Seclusion and Restraint Policy 18-19

School Newspaper and Yearbook 19

Social Events/Dances 19

Student Electronic Acceptable Use Policy and Social Media Code of Conduct 19

Transportation Policy 19-20

Bus Transportation and Usage 20-21

Driving on School Grounds 21

Student Drivers 21

Weapons 21

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TUITION AND FEES

Philosophy 22

Current Year Tuition 22

Tuition and Fees for International Students 22

Partial Year enrollees 22

Financial Assistance and Scholarships 23

Parents’ Financial Commitment 23

Payment Options 23

Delinquencies 23

Student Withdrawal or Dismissal 23-24

Tuition Refunds 24

Registration Fees 24

Supply/Book/Activity/Technology Fee 25

Supplemental/Other fees for Services 25

ACADEMIC PHILOSOPHIES AND POLICIES

Achievement Testing 25

Academic Standards 26

Course of Study 26

Curriculum and Textbooks 27

Class Sizes 27

Student Class Schedule 28

Teaching of Literature 28

Sex Education 29

Physical Education 29

Grading/Reporting Periods 30

Grading Standards 30

Grade Recovery 30

Incomplete Grades 30

Advanced Placement Courses in High School 30

Course Credits for Transfers 30

Course Offerings 31

Course Credits for HS Courses Completed Before 9th

Grade 32

Courses Completed at Other Schools 32

Homework Policies 33

Homework Quantity 33

Honor Roll Recognition 34

National Honor Society 34

Yearly Student Awards 34-35

Cum Laude, Valedictorian & Salutatorian 35

Plagiarism/Cheating 35

Academic Probation 35-36

High School Credit 37

Transcripts/Report Cards 37

Guidance and College and Career Services 37

Tutorial Help 38

Response to Intervention (RtI) 38

Special Services and Resource Room 38

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ATTENDANCE POLICIES

Arrival Times 39

Before School Care 39

Departure Times 39

Early Release Wednesdays 39

Attendance Records 39

School Absences 39

Attendance Classification and Definitions 40

Attendance Reporting Procedures 41

School Interventions 41

Family Vacations 42

Make Up Work 42

Tardiness 43

Truancy 43

COMMUNICATION AND PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICIES

Biblical Principles of Communication 43

Parent Teacher Communication 44

SERVE Committee 44

Parent Volunteers 45

School and Community Relations 45

MEDICAL PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

Controlled Drugs 45

Emergency Medication 46

First Aid Procedures 46

Illness 46

Immunization Policy 46

Medical Appointment 48

Medical Emergency Procedures 48

Medication Policies for Prescribed and Non-prescribed Drugs 48

CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE POLICIES

HS Dress Code 49

Discipline Policy 50

Restoration Policy 51

Parent Code of Conduct 52

Organizational Structure 52

Student Correction and Discipline 53

Discipline Levels 1-5 53-56

Student Standard of Conduct 56

Substance Abuse Policy and Guidelines 57

Explanation of Consequences 58

Behavioral Probation Policy 58-59

Suspension Policy 59

Expulsion Policy 59

Disagreement over Disciplinary Action 59

COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM

Philosophy and Purpose 60

Community Service Graduation Requirements for High School 60

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES POLICIES

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Extra-curricular Activities 61

Requirements for Participation in extracurricular Activities 61-62

Christian Athletics 62

Student Athletic Eligibility 63

Standards of Student-Athletes' Coaches’ and Spectators’ Behavior 63

STUDENT ISSUED AGREEMENTS AND CONTRACTS (COPY)

Study Hall Acknowledgement Form 64

GCA Chromebook Contract 65

Student Electronic User Agreement 66-67

Student Electronic Acceptable Use Policy & Social Media Code of Conduct 68-71

Student and Parent Handbook Acknowledgement Form 72

Student Driving Contract 73-74

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MISSION STATEMENT

  To pursue academic, spiritual, and extra-curricular excellence in a Christ-Centered Community.

VISION STATEMENT

To equip students to be servant leaders, relevant in the world, pursuing God’s purpose and will for

their lives.

STATEMENT OF FAITH

The basis of GCA shall be the Word of God, as interpreted by the following Statement of Faith.

1. We believe the Bible to be the inspired and the only infallible, authoritative Word of God. (2

Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21)

2. We believe that there is only one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy

Spirit. (Genesis 1:1; Matthew 28:19; John 10:30)

3. We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:33); His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14,

Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:35); His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15, 7:26); His miracles (John 2:11); His

vicarious and atoning death (I Corinthians 15:3, Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 2:9); His resurrection

(John 11:25, 1 Corinthians 15:4); His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19);

and in His personal return in power and glory (Acts 1:11, Revelations 19:11).

4. We believe in the absolute necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of

the exceeding sinfulness of human nature, and that men are justified on the single ground of

faith in the shed blood of Christ and through God’s grace. (John 3:1618, Romans 3:23, 5:8-9,

Ephesians 2:9-10, Titus 3:5)

5. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the

resurrection of life, and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation. (John 5:28-29)

We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:9,

Corinthians 12:12-13, Galatians 3:26-28)

6. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is

enabled to live a godly life. (Romans 8:13-14, 1 Corinthians 3:16, 6:19- 20, Ephesians 4:30)

7. We believe in the creation of man by the direct act of God. (Genesis 1:26-28, Genesis 5:1-2).

8. We believe that God wonderfully and immutably creates each person as male or female. These

two distinct genders together reflect the image and nature of God. Rejection of one's biological

sex is a rejection of the image of God within that person. (Gen 1:2627).

9. We believe that the term "marriage" has only one meaning: the uniting of one man and one

woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in Scripture (Gen 2:18-25).

10. We believe that God intends sexual intimacy to occur only between a man and a woman who

are married to each other (1 Cor. 6:18; 7:2-5; Heb. 13:4).

11. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a

marriage between a man and a woman.

12. We believe that any form of sexual immorality (including adultery, fornication, homosexual

behavior, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, and use of pornography) is sinful and offensive to

God (Matt 15:18-20; 1 Cor. 6:910).

The statement of faith does not exhaust the extent of our beliefs. The Bible itself, as the inspired and

infallible Word of God that speaks with final authority concerning truth, morality, and the proper

conduct of mankind, is the sole and final source of all that we believe.

Expectation of Students

1. Greenwood Christian Academy is a school dedicated to the glory of God. It exists to help you

grow spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. It is expected that you will,

at all times, live in accord with what our school represents and believes and that in all things,

you will represent it well as an example of what its members are and do.

2. Students at Greenwood Christian Academy are expected to assume personal responsibility for

their actions, attitudes, and efforts. These would include carefully preparing for each class,

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coming to the classroom with needed materials, preparing to begin class and maintain focus in

classes, and showing respect for the faculty, staff, and administration in all instances.

3. As a Christian school, Greenwood Christian Academy is committed to the teachings of the

Bible. We are persuaded that there should be a direct relationship between what a Christian

student believes and how they behave. We acknowledge that it is impossible to create a school

community with behavioral standards that are acceptable to every student. We wish to clarify

that some of these rules are intended to help our community life and are not necessarily

regarded as absolutes for all Christians. We do, however, believe that it is essential to specify

certain specific principles found in the Bible. Therefore, we request that all students abstain

both on and off-campus, from the use of tobacco, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, profane

language, and immoral behavior.

Violations are considered the breaking of a firm commitment each student makes when voluntarily

choosing to attend the school. As a member of Greenwood Christian Academy, you will be expected to

exert a positive influence on your social relationships and be a responsible member of the Greenwood

Christian Academy school community.

PARENT STATEMENT OF COOPERATION

● I have read the Student Handbook and will cooperate with the school to see that my child

meets the standard of appearance and conduct outlined therein.

● I furthermore grant the school the authority to discipline my child as necessary (as outlined in

the Student Handbook) and agree to cooperate with the discipline of my child at home as

needed.

● I agree to bring any questions or criticisms regarding procedures or discipline directly to the

administration or teacher involved.

● I will not be a party to rumors.

● I will not spread discontent among my child or other parents.

● I understand that enrollment in Greenwood Christian Academy is not a right, but a privilege.

All parties must understand the expectations and standards we adhere to for all students’

safety and welfare. Complaints, criticisms, or adverse comments, regardless of venue (including

social media), will only be shared with the appropriate staff member while following the

Matthew 18 principle found in God’s Word for handling conflict and conflict resolution.

● I have read the school’s doctrinal statement, purpose, and objectives and am willing to have my

child trained following them.

● I give my child permission to participate in all school activities, including sports and

school-sponsored trips away from the school premises, and absolve the school from any

liability because of injury.

● I agree to pay the tuition according to arrangements that shall be made. If my account becomes

more than 30 days delinquent, my child may be temporarily suspended from school. If

financial problems arise, I understand that the school will work with us in making special

payment arrangements.

● I agree to support the school’s high academic standards by providing a place at home for my

child to study and by giving my child encouragement to complete homework and assignments.

● I realize that a Christian school is not a substitute for the local church. Christian education is

complete when a child receives instruction from the home, Christian school, and Bible-teaching

church.

● I agree to pray for the ministry of the school, staff members, school board, and fellow families

as we join in partnership with GCA in order to help me with our spiritual responsibility to our

child.

● I am aware that the infraction of at least one of these statements by my child or me could

result in my child being suspended, leading to expulsion.

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Expected Student Outcomes

GCA offers spiritual training to bring the student into a correct relationship with God

through Jesus Christ while maintaining a strong academic program.

Spiritually

● Understand and commit to a personal and energetic relationship with Jesus Christ, including

daily times of prayer and devotional reading

● Understand the worth of every human being as created in the image of God

● Can articulate and defend their Christian worldview thinking while having a basic

understanding of opposing worldviews

● Know, understand, and apply God’s Word in daily life

● Possess apologetic skills to defend their faith

● Are empowered by the Holy Spirit and pursue a life of faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control,

perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love

● Personally, respond to carry out the Great Commission locally and around the world in a

God-inspired way.

Intellectually

● Have achieved proficiency standards in core academic disciplines, i.e., Mathematics, Language

Arts, History, Science, and Bible, having utilized technological, critical thinking, and public

speaking skills, as well as biblical truths across all disciplines

● Have a knowledge and understanding of people, events, and movements in history (including

church history) and the cultures and religions of other people and places

● Know how to utilize resources, including technology, to find, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate

information.

● Are committed to life-long learning

● Have the skills to question, solve problems, make wise decisions, and demonstrate

higher-order thinking skills

● Value inquiry appreciate the arts and understanding of how they express and shape their

beliefs and values

● Demonstrate civic responsibilities and prepare for adult responsibility as a Christian citizen of

our nation.

Socially

● Are actively involved in a church community, serving God and others

● Have a critical appreciation of the languages and cultures of other people, promoting

inter-ethnic harmony, and encouraging biblical hospitality for the “alien,” “stranger.”

● Understand, value, and engage in appropriate social (community) and civic (political) activities

● Embrace and practice justice, mercy, and peacemaking in the family and society

● Respect and relate appropriately with integrity and confidence to the people with whom they

work, play, and live

● Have an appreciation for the natural environment and practice responsible stewardship of

God’s creation, as a result of careful decision-making

● Are good stewards of their finances, time (including discretionary time), and all other resources

Physically

● Are prepared to practice the principles of healthy, moral living

● Understand that work has dignity as an expression of the nature of God

● Allows students to be a witness for God’s Word (Joshua 1:9)

● Treat their bodies as the temple of the Holy Spirit.

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SPIRITUAL ACTIVITIES POLICIES

BIBLE VERSE MEMORIZATION

Each student will be involved in Bible memorization each year; these verses will be in accordance with

the Bible curriculum for each grade level. A periodic review will be given to each student to ensure the

continued memory of each Bible selection.

BIBLE VERSION FOR CLASSROOM USE

GCA encourages each student to have his own Bible and to bring it to school daily.

● In the classroom, the New International Version (NIV) will be used for instruction and memory

work. For those parents who prefer their child to use the King James Version (KJV) for

individual instruction and memory work, arrangements can be made.

CHAPEL POLICY

Chapels will be held on Thursday of each week. The Spiritual life team will work collaboratively to

plan all Chapels, spiritual retreats, service days, and Bible curriculum Students should feel a spirit

of reverence in all chapel services; thus, all programming shall contribute to that atmosphere.

Students shall have attentive, courteous conduct that honors the Lord at all chapels. During chapel,

all disciplinary policies will be observed and implemented in dealing with student misbehavior. Chapel

shall be an extension of the student’s Christian training, but not the extent of it.

CHURCH ATTENDANCE

Believing that GCA’s role is to assist the home and the church in training young people, we consider it

to be of utmost importance that students and their families regularly attend church. We do not believe

that we can work in harmony with the home if the family is not active in the church (Hebrews 10:25).

EVANGELISM OF STUDENTS

● GCA provides a Christ-centered learning environment that emphasizes man’s responsibility to

God, family, and the community of man. It is only with a healthy philosophy of life that a

student can adequately apply his academic skills.

● It shall be the policy that each student will be given a clear presentation of the Gospel during

the course of the year. GCA also desires that every student has a personal relationship with

Christ and that the Gospel be made a natural part of the process.

PRAYER

Prayer is a vital ingredient in the program of Christian training. Students at GCA are trained in the

importance of establishing a consistent daily prayer life. Teachers lead the students to understand

how God is central to all of life and that continual communications with Him are essential to Christian

living. Students are trained in the habit of prayer throughout the school day: before beginning the

responsibilities of each day, before eating lunch, for special needs, and for giving Him praise for all

things. Students are encouraged to make their requests known before God and are given

opportunities to pray and share their needs with others as they share their prayer requests with Him.

ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND SERVICES

BUILDING NEATNESS AND CLEANLINESS

The school encourages students to have a great deal of pride in the school and appreciate the fine

facilities that the Lord has provided. Care should be taken to properly dispose of any trash so that the

buildings and grounds do not become littered. Trash receptacles are provided. In order to reduce the

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possibility of pests, no food is allowed in the classroom unless prior authorization is obtained.

BULLYING PREVENTION

Greenwood Christian Academy desires to create an environment in which our students feel safe and

secure. A safe and secure atmosphere will help all of our students pursue their academic, physical,

and spiritual goals. It is the school’s intent to put in action a bullying policy to protect this sense of

safety and security.

 

Definition of Bullying:

1. Bullying is intentional, repeated hurtful acts, words, or other behavior, such as name-calling,

threatening, or shunning committed by one or more children against another to intimidate or

belittle. The victims do not intentionally provoke these negative acts, and for such actions to be

defined as bullying, an imbalance in real or perceived power must exist between the bully and

the victim.

A. Types of Bullying:

1. Physical bullying is using one's body and physical bodily acts to exert power over peers.

Punching, kicking and other physical attacks are all types of physical bullying.

2. Verbal bullying is a means of using words negatively, such as insults, teasing, put-downs, etc.

to gain power over someone else's life. 

3. Cyberbullying is the use of electronic information and communication devices to willfully and

repeatedly harm either a person or persons through the medium of text. Cyberbullying and

harassment deliberately threatens, harasses, or intimidates an individual or group of

individuals; or places an individual in reasonable fear of harm to self or damage to the

individual's property or reputation, or has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly

operation of the school.

4. Emotional bullying includes rejecting, terrorizing, extorting, defaming, humiliating,

blackmailing, and rating/ranking of personal characteristics such as race, disability, ethnicity,

or perceived sexual orientation, manipulating friendships, isolating, ostracizing, and peer

pressure.

5. Sexual bullying includes many of the actions listed above, as well as exhibitionism, voyeurism,

sexual propositioning, sexual harassment, and abuse involving actual physical contact and

sexual assault.

B. Reporting of Bullying:

1. Students should report incidents of bullying to a teacher or an administrator.  An incident

report should be completed and turned in to the administrator for follow-up. A student may

make an anonymous report by leaving a written, phone, or email message for a teacher or

administrator. All reports will be followed up!

2. GCA staff should report incidents of bullying to their immediate supervisor. If this immediate

supervisor is involved in the bullying, follow the Matthew 18 chain.

C. Consequences of Bullying - Student Violations:

● First offense – The administration will contact both the bully and victim’s parents in all

incidents of bullying and plan counseling by school staff.  Consequences will fit the type of

bullying, as stated in the Student Handbook.

● Second offense – Consequences can include loss of privileges, physical and Internet,

extra-curricular activities, and suspension for a period of time.

● Third offense – Consequences can include expulsion.

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CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION AND NEGLECT POLICY

It is the responsibility of Greenwood Christian Academy to provide a safe, supportive, and

responsive school environment for all students. The GCA Administration and Staff believe that

all students have the right to be protected from abuse and neglect; they acknowledge this

policy’s necessity to ensure school personnel can recognize and report suspected abuse and

neglect cases.

Under Indiana law, any individual who has a reason to believe a child is a victim of abuse or

neglect must make a report; thus, everyone in Indiana is considered a mandated reporter.

School professionals must immediately report to the Department of Child Services (DCS) or the

local law enforcement agency. After making the report, the school staff person must notify the

Head of School or the direct School administrator that the report was made.

CHROMEBOOKS

GCA provides each student with school-issued Chromebooks. The Chromebook agreement form is in

Appendix B.

CLOSED CAMPUS

For safety reasons, GCA operates a closed campus. A closed campus means no student will be

permitted to leave school during regular school hours without the parent present. Parents must notify

the school if their student needs to leave for a scheduled appointment. Students permitted to drive

must have parent approval to leave school premises for reasons stated below.

AUTHORIZATION TO LEAVE CAMPUS

No GCA student is to leave the campus with anyone other than a parent or immediate family member

during regular school time unless he has received proper approval.

Authorizations to leave the campus MAY be granted for:

� Pre-scheduled appointments

� Illness

� Family emergency

� Family events

� Pre-authorized internships, which do not interfere with academic class schedules

� Lunch with parent or guardian (must pick the student up from school).

Authorization to leave the campus shall NOT be granted for any other reason, including but not

limited to: Returning home for forgotten homework, projects, supplies, or sports uniforms.

VISITORS

● Pastors, parents, grandparents, and alumni are the only visitors who are permitted to join

students at the lunch hour without prior approval.

● When you come to have lunch with your student, you and your student will sit out in the

student lobby and be able to enjoy your lunchtime together.

● All visitors to see either a student or a staff member must report to the front desk and obtain a

name tag as soon as they arrive to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students. Visitors

must meet all behavioral regulations of GCA. No visiting students are allowed in or around the

school during normal school hours without prior approval of the Administrator. Arrangements

to have a visitor in school should be made.

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PHONE CALLS

Neither teachers nor students will be available to leave classes to receive phone calls during

instruction time (except in cases of extreme emergency). Messages may be given to have the

calls returned during break or lunch hour. Students are to use the phone only when

necessary and WITH PERMISSION.

Student Phone Use

1. Students may use the phone at the specific request of a teacher to make arrangements,

deal with emergencies, etc.

2. Students will not be permitted to make calls requesting clothing, money, books,

homework, etc.

3. Exceptions to this rule would be ripped or stained clothing needing replacement, a

student who is outside the dress code, or a student with a health problem.

4. Students may not use the phone to request personal plans and arrangements (i.e., go to

another student’s house, ride in another vehicle, go to lunch with a friend, etc.). Such

arrangements should be made prior to a student’s arrival at school.

5. Students may use the phone if there has been a school scheduling change of which

parents may not have been previously aware.

6. Students are not permitted to leave a class to receive a phone call. In cases of

emergencies, the school staff should be contacted, and the message will be conveyed to

the student.

MESSAGES, DELIVERIES, AND INVITATIONS

Messages and deliveries are to be relayed through the school office. If you have items to give to

your student (i.e., lunch boxes, books, Grubhub, doordash, etc.), please leave them with the

front desk staff, and they will notify students to pick them up during the passing period. This

format avoids disruptions that could disturb the flow of teaching.

1. Any type of deliveries such as floral or balloon arrangements, gifts, candy, etc. on behalf of

students will be kept until after school. The importance of families celebrating special

occasions with their children is understood. However, due to these celebrations’ personal

nature, it is respectfully requested that these deliveries do not take place at school.

2. Invitations to birthday parties and special events or activities should be mailed from your

home.

CUMULATIVE RECORDS

Cumulative records shall be kept on each student enrolled in GCA. They shall be available in the

main office for teachers/administrators. Parents may request to review their child’s cumulative

records, and GCA will, at a reasonable time, review the cumulative records with the parents.

Subjective information (such as discipline information) may be removed from the cumulative record

after graduation.

1. Provisions of the Indiana Education Code (IC 20-33-7) have authorized parents, in consultation

with school personnel, to inspect the school records of their children. Federal legislation

further emphasizes the parents’ right to review their children’s school records. GCA maintains

the following type of school records: Individual student demographic information, admissions

papers, grades, immunization records, date of graduation, standardized test results, and

transcripts.

2. The administration is responsible for maintaining these records. Parents or legal guardians of

students who wish to review any of their children’s records shall make an appointment through

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the school office. Parents who desire a copy of the items in their child’s records may request

such through the administration.

3. When inspecting the student’s records, any authorized person may question the content of the

record. If it is agreed to by both parties, the person may place a rebuttal with the materials in

question.

4. If, after review, it is felt that any information contained in the record is inaccurate,

misleading, or otherwise inappropriate as defined by the federal and state laws, the

parent shall be given an opportunity to file a written request with the administration for

removal or correction of the objectionable information and, if necessary, a conference

shall be scheduled to consider the records or any record of disciplinary action taken by

the school.

5. Other federal and state law provisions protect parents’ rights by restricting the release

of information from student records. Only specified individuals and agencies have

access to such information under the law, and such persons reviewing the records

must sign a statement indicating the purpose of the review and restricting any further

release of information. Other persons may be permitted to review the records with the

written consent of the parents or of the student, if 18 years old or older.

DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The law classifies certain student records information as “Directory Information,” which may be

released without prior parental consent, provided the parent does not direct an objection, in writing, to

the respective Administrative Assistant within 15 days of the receipt of this notice. Directory

information may include the student’s name, parent’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place

of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of the student as

a member of an athletic team, date of attendance, degrees, and awards received individual, team or

group pictures, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the

student. Individual, team, or group pictures may be released to newspapers or magazines for

newsworthy events or may be shown on the school’s web pages.

Examples of Directory Information: honor roll, citizenship ratings, student directory (name, address, and

telephone number), and items in school publications.

A written letter should be sent to the school office if the parent does not want the child’s information

used in the manner stated above.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

At least once a month, fire drills will be held. According to the plan designated near each classroom

door, students and teachers are to immediately leave the building during fire drills. At least twice a

year, tornado/emergency drills will be conducted. These include tornado (shelter In) and school crisis

and intruder lockdown drills (ALICE).

EMERGENCY PICK UP PROCEDURES

In the case of an actual emergency, parents are requested to NOT come to the school until the first

responders have given the “all clear.” If the building is compromised, the emergency student pick up

will be at the soccer field, unless another location is otherwise designated

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EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

In cases of inclement weather or other emergencies, the school may be canceled, delayed, or closed

early.

1. To determine whether the school is going to be closed, please consult the school website or

listen to the following television stations: Television--CBS, NBC, ABC, and FOX affiliates.

Parents will also receive a message from FACTS SIS through either a text alert or a

recorded phone message.

2. Much consideration goes into closing school. Our foremost concern is the safety of our

students; however, the school’s families come from several different communities, and weather

and road conditions can be different. If, in your area, the weather is bad or the roads are

hazardous, and school is still in session, do not hesitate to keep your children home.

The absence shall be considered excused with parent notification.

3. GCA does not follow public school closing. Please check the local listings. The administration

will notify stations by 6:15 a.m.

4. There may be times when the opening of school is delayed for two hours. This is done when

school officials think (or hope) that the weather conditions will clear up later in the morning.

To be on the safe side, however, it is suggested that parents listen to their TV again on these

mornings at around 9:00 a. m. or 9:30 a.m. to see if the school has changed its “delayed

opening” to being “closed all day.”

5. Whether or other emergencies could cause the school to be closed early in the day. Again, TV

and our website are your best communication tools. School officials check weather reports

carefully during the school day. When closing school early, GCA may need to call the people

designated as “emergency contacts” on the student’s emergency card to get the student a ride

home. BE SURE THE OFFICE HAS AN UPDATED EMERGENCY NUMBER TO CALL IF

STUDENTS ARE DISMISSED EARLY.

6. Do not confuse Greenwood Christian “Academy” with Greenwood Christian “School.”

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY (FERPA)

GCA provides for limited access to the student’s records by the person who has legal responsibility for

the student:

1. For the right to challenge any misleading or inaccurate information contained in the student’s

record.

2. For the right to provide written permission from the “eligible student,” if eighteen (18) years of

age or older, or from the person who has legal responsibility before revealing the contents of the

student’s records to other parties.

3. For the right of the “eligible student” and those legally responsible for the student to be notified

of his rights under the law’s prescriptions.

GCA adheres to the following policies:

1. To secure the student’s and family’s right of privacy within the school, only the administration

and designated school personnel, in fulfillment of their respective functions, may have access

to student records.

2. Outside the school community, only the person(s) who have legal responsibility for the student

may have access to the student’s records. Any parent or adult student desiring to inspect his

records shall address the request to the administration in writing. Such a request must be

honored within 15 calendar days. All tests and evaluations shall be translated into meaningful

terms, and the emphasis is to be placed upon the relationship of all known factors influencing

the educational development of the student.

3. According to the law, the school is authorized to release the information contained in the

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student’s records without permission to certain federal, state, and local authorities in the

performance of their functions and to the court or law enforcement officials upon issuance of a

subpoena or court order.

FIELD TRIPS

The educational program shall include excursions and trips by students under the supervision and

instruction of teachers to museums, art galleries, places of historical nature, industrial and civic

interest, fields and woods for nature study, and institutions and places of a similar character which, in

the opinion of the administration, may promote the education of such students, as authorized to take

such a trip. The place to be visited and the method of transportation will be approved by the

administration. All such trips shall require the prior written consent of the parents of each student

participating. Beginning in grade 6, students will begin to take trips lasting more than the school day

and possibly overnight.

Refunds:  If a student signs up for a field trip and cannot participate for any reason, a refund MAY be

authorized for up to the full amount, less any non-refundable out-of-pocket expenses for prepaid

tickets, housing, etc. and/or allocated costs not covered by others. If GCA is unable to retrieve a

refund from the vendor, we will be unable to refund the parent.

Any person wishing to volunteer for any school activity MUST have a background check

completed, and it MUST be returned to GCA in advance of any volunteering in the classroom, a

field trip, or activity, and the cost will be incurred by the person completing the background

check. If the volunteer does not have a background check on file with the school, they will not

be permitted to participate.

LOCKERS

At the beginning of the school year, students will be assigned a locker in which they may keep their

personal items. Locker assignments are permanent, and no student may trade lockers with another.

Lockers are the property of the school and can be opened and inspected by the administration

when it is deemed necessary. Misuse of lockers will result in the loss of the privilege.

1. Nothing immoral, illegal, or unchristian may be placed in or hung on the lockers.

2. The school is not responsible for valuables stored or left in lockers. Our recommendation is

that nothing of great value be brought to school or left in lockers.

3. Students are responsible for the care of the locker. The student must pay for any damage to

the lockers beyond normal wear.

LUNCHES

GCA does not have its own hot lunch program. However, lunches are catered in from several local

restaurants. Students may bring their own lunches to school or order from the weekly menu provided

through the vendors. Through FACTS SIS, the school provides a secure, fast, and easy-to-use online

ordering and payment system. All orders must be placed one week in advance in order to be properly

processed. Parents are advised to provide their child with a balanced lunch, which is essential for the

child’s best physical and mental health.

Should lunch be forgotten, parents are urged to bring lunch before the start of the lunch period. If a

parent is not able to bring lunch, then students can receive cheese & crackers, fruit/pudding cups,

and milk or juice for the same lunch price. Students are able to order lunch through the many delivery

companies such as GrubHub, doordash, but all food and tip must be prepaid. Students may pick up

all deliveries at the student’s assigned lunchtime.

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PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES (cell phones, ipods, e-readers, tablets, etc.)

HS students may ONLY use their Personal Electronic devices during school hours with faculty

permission and under the following provisions:

● Personal electronics are the responsibility of the students. The school is not responsible for loss

due to theft or damage.

● A laptop may be brought to school and used in an appropriate classroom manner.

● Cell phones and earbuds may only be used:

o before the 8:15 am bell and after the 3:00 pm dismissal bell

o during their lunch period and during passing periods only.

● Any phone used for texting and calls, without permission from a staff member, at times other

than stated above, may be confiscated and held for return to the parent. After the third offense,

students will be required to drop off their cell phones in the principal’s office from 8:15

to 3:00 pm.

● Cell phones and usage are subject to the Student Electronic Acceptable Use Policy and Social

Media Code of Conduct.

PESTICIDE NOTIFICATION REGISTRY

At least 48 hours prior to a pesticide application, the school corporation will provide planned pesticide

application details to parents, guardians, and staff members requesting to be notified. Parents,

guardians, and staff must be registered with the school to receive such advance notice. To receive

advance notification, contact the school office and request the Pesticide Notification Form.

REPORTING SERIOUS INCIDENTS PROCEDURES

As GCA continues to grow, there is an increasing potential that incidents might occur that could

threaten the health, safety, or the financial well-being of students, faculty, staff, or the entire school.

It is therefore important that GCA has a policy in place prior to any such incident occurring that

would protect not only parties directly involved, but also the school, in case any question of procedure,

chronology, or propriety of actions is evaluated later.

In the event you or your student witnesses or is victim to a serious incident, the following reporting

procedures should take place.

1. Contact the appropriate administration, superintendent, or a trusted staff member.

2. To simplify and optimize the reporting process, the Serious Incident Report Form must be

submitted as a part of this report. Additional documents may be attached if needed.

3. If the incident is not resolved within 48 hours after the first discovery, an additional

written explanation shall be submitted to the Board Chairman until resolution.

4. If the incident is severe enough, legal authorities will be contacted.

SECLUSION AND RESTRAINT POLICY

Greenwood Christian Academy believes a safe and healthy environment should be provided in which

all children can learn, develop, and participate in instructional programs that promote high levels of

academic achievement. As an Indiana accredited non-public school, state law requires that our school

has a Seclusion and Restraint Plan. The purpose of the plan is to ensure that all students and staff

are safe in school and that students who may have behavior crises are free from inappropriate use of

seclusion or restraint.

Seclusion or restraint shall not be used as routine school safety measures; that is, they shall not be

implemented except in situations where a child’s behavior or action poses an imminent danger of

physical harm to self or others and not as a routine strategy implemented to address instructional

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problems or inappropriate behavior (e.g., disrespect, noncompliance, insubordination, out of the seat),

as a means of coercion or retaliation, or as a convenience. Any use of either seclusion or restraint shall

be supervised, short in duration, and used only for the purposes of de-escalating the behavior.

Parents can access a full copy of our school’s plan by request in the school office or by visiting our

school’s website www.gcak12.org

SCHOOL NEWSPAPER AND YEARBOOK

The creation and implementation of both the school year book and periodical newspaper, Cougar

Chronicles, are subject to a specific school course and are under the HS course selections. The

yearbook will be available for purchase each school year.

SOCIAL EVENTS/DANCES/PROM

As a co-educational institution, GCA seeks to provide many wholesome activities for the development

of Christian values and character in a Christian environment. A receptive attitude toward this

emphasis is an essential qualification for enrollment.

STUDENT ELECTRONIC ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY AND SOCIAL MEDIA CODE OF CONDUCT

Greenwood Christian Academy ("GCA") is providing computer networks and Internet access for its

students and employees. This service allows employees and students to share information, learn new

concepts, and research diverse subjects.

GCA has adopted this Acceptable Use Policy ("Policy") to set guidelines for accessing the computer

network or the Internet service provided by GCA. Every year, students who want computer networks

and Internet access for that upcoming school year need to sign and submit a copy of the Policy to

GCA. Students also must have their parents or guardians sign this Policy. By signing this agreement,

the student and parent or guardian agree to follow the rules set forth in this Policy and to report any

misuse of the computer network or the Internet to a teacher or supervisor. Parties agreeing to this

policy also understand that GCA may revise the Acceptable Use Policy, as it deems necessary. GCA

will provide notice of any changes either by posting such a revised version of the Policy on its website

or by providing written notice to the students and parents or guardians. The complete policy and

procedure guidelines are in the Acceptable Use Policy form located in Appendix C.

TRANSPORTATION POLICY

Transportation to and from school shall be the responsibility of the parents or guardians. GCA makes

bus transport available from designated locations.

Bus Students

At the beginning of the school year, there will be designated places and times where students will

be picked up for school. It is important for students to be at their designated stop on time. The

bus is not permitted to pick up or drop off at any area that has not been designated. Please be

prompt in picking up your student in the afternoon.

School Bus Pass

Bus passes are available to purchase on FACTS SIS or the school office during the school year.

Students MUST purchase a bus pass prior to the beginning of school if they plan to take the bus

as transportation.

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School Bus Transportation Rules and Regulations

Greenwood Christian Academy takes the responsibility of safely transporting students very

seriously. The following information is for all students who ride Greenwood Christian Academy’s

bus, whether on daily regular runs or on field trips and athletic events. These policies were

developed as a guide so that all stakeholders understand the policies, procedures, rules, and

regulations that have been established to ensure that experience is a positive one.

Riding Rules:

● Students shall be seated immediately upon entering the bus.

● Students shall not stand or move from place to place while the bus is in motion.

● Any loud, boisterous, or profane language shall not be tolerated. Indecent conduct, verbal

abuse, use of racial/ethnic remarks, or derogatory names is also not acceptable.

● Students shall not tease, scuffle, trip, hold, hit, or use their hands, feet, or body in any

objectionable way.

● Students should stay in their seats until the bus has come to a full stop and the door is

opened by the driver.

● Students need permission to open the windows and doors. The window will only be opened

halfway.

● Students shall not throw anything out of the windows, including food. There are trash

cans on the bus… Please use them.

● Upon the recommendation of the bus driver, school authorities may deny privileges of

riding the school bus to students who refuse to conduct themselves in a courteous manner.

● The school bus driver has the same authority and responsibility as a teacher.

● Safety is the primary concern in student transportation; thus, the driver and school

authorities shall maintain discipline on the school bus. Students disobeying safety rules

will be denied riding privileges.

● The aisle of a school bus must be kept free of objects that could obstruct an emergency

evacuation of the bus. Any large object that cannot be held on a student’s lap or placed

safely in the back of the bus, is not permitted.

● Students are not allowed to bring food, drinks, or chewing gum on the school buses unless

given permission by their driver.

● Students must keep their head, hands, and feet inside the bus at all times.

● Smoking, vaping, or the use of any tobacco product is not allowed at any time.

● Bus drivers will prepare and practice emergency unloading with the students at least two

times per school year.

Bus Discipline Process:

● Students must follow the bus and safety rules to maintain bus privileges.

● Drivers will work with students to ensure safe and courteous behavior.

● If a student’s behavior warrants a bus conduct form, the driver will submit the form to the

Transportation office. They will then forward it on to the Principal or Dean of Students.

They will decide the discipline outcome.

● If removed from riding the bus, the student may not ride a Greenwood Christian Academy

bus during the time of the bus suspension. This includes all extracurricular activities and

field trips. Students who cannot ride the bus to events may not participate in the events,

including sporting events.

Bus Consequences:

● 1st

Bus Conduct form – Verbal reprimand/warning

● 2nd

Bus Conduct form – *Probation

● 3rd

Bus Conduct form – One Day Suspension (from bus)

● 4th

Bus Conduct form – Three Day Suspension (from bus)

● 5th

Bus Conduct form – Five Day Suspension (from bus)

● 6th

Bus Conduct form – Suspension for Semester (from bus)

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● In case of suspension, the principal or designee, will contact parents to notify them of the

suspension and determine the date of suspension. Unless there is a vacation, the student

will serve the suspension the day after the write-up. If the infraction is serious enough, the

principal can determine a suspension schedule at their discretion.

Emergency Procedures:

● All drivers are trained in emergency procedures.

● All buses are assigned 4-5 student emergency helpers.

● Bus evacuation drills are conducted once each semester on school grounds.

● All students are trained in emergency procedures each school year.

● Parents: In the event of an emergency, contact the school or transportation office for

direction as to where to meet your child. For your own safety, do not go to the scene of an

accident.

● In the event of an emergency, students will only be released to parents after proper

documentation and approval by school administration and/or police.

DRIVING ON SCHOOL GROUNDS

(Parents and Guests)

● Parents and guests are asked to follow the following guidelines when driving on school

property:

○ Drive SLOWLY and watch for children.

○ Enter the school property as directed. Elementary parents during drop-off and pick-up

should use the west entrance. MS parents during drop-off and pick-up should use the

north entrance.

○ DO NOT PARK in the driving lanes or fire lanes. If you need to come into the building,

please park in the designated parking areas.

○ Our parking lots are busy places. All drivers should be on full alert, not using their cell

phones, and obeying the 10 MPH speed limit.

○ Do not drive around traffic cones and obey all directions as given by staff members

when directing traffic.

STUDENT DRIVERS

Licensed students may drive to school. There are a few rules a student must follow, however.

1. All automobiles parked on the school grounds must be registered with the school, purchase

a YEARLY $5 parking pass, and must display a valid decal inside the front window in the

upper corner, driver’s side.

2. Parking decals must be properly displayed at all times.

3. Decals are valid only for the student to whom it was issued. You cannot give, sell or in any

way transfer your decal or driving privilege to another student. (30 Day Parking Suspended

for violation)

4. Students must be licensed and covered by insurance.

5. The school is not responsible for the automobile or its contents.

6. There will be NO speeding or any form of reckless driving on the school grounds.

7. The maximum speed is 10 miles per hour.

8. Student vehicles may be subject to search if there are reasonable grounds to believe that

drugs, alcohol, stolen property, or other contraband might be present in that vehicle.

9. Parking regulations are strictly enforced. Please park only in labeled student parking

sections.

10. Understand that being issued a parking decal provides you with permission to park the

registered vehicle if space is available and that you are not guaranteed a parking space.

Students are to drive with extreme caution to prevent an accident, and not to exceed 5 mph

on school property.

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11. Students are not to be in or near their cars during school hours without permission.

12. Students should not transport other students to and from school without parental

permission.

13. Students must park in designated areas only.

14. Seniors will have the opportunity to purchase a parking spot for the school year which can

be painted and used solely by the individual student. Information will be given out to

students during Back to School night.

WEAPONS

All weapons (students/adults) are forbidden on school grounds or at any school function. If a student

is found to have a weapon deemed dangerous by the school administration either on his person or in

his locker, he will be subjected to suspension and/or expulsion. The Superintendent’s decision will be

final.

TUITION AND FEES

PHILOSOPHY

Tuition and fees are calculated to cover the annual expenses (including GCA financial assistance

grants and scholarships) and debt service supporting a high-value Christian education and are based

on expected enrollment and PAID tuition and fees for the coming year. So it is imperative that all

families adhere to the payment schedules that are tailored to their individual needs.

Payment of tuition by parents is not the complete discharge of their responsibility to the school, its

families, and teachers; but parents are also involved with transportation help; attendance at school

meetings and services on committees; cooperation with the faculty in the training and discipline of

children; and fellowship in giving as God enables--all of which help to meet the financial needs of the

school.

CURRENT YEAR TUITION

Tuition and fees for each academic year are established by the Superintendent and Leadership Team

during the budget-setting process. The tuition, fee, and financial assistance information for the

current year is published on the GCA website (www.gcak12.org) under the Admissions tab. All billing

and payments are processed through the FACTS Tuition Management System.

TUITION AND FEES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Tuition and fees for international students for each academic year are established by the

Superintendent during the budget setting process and are communicated no later than January of

each year. The tuition, fees, and financial assistance information for the current year is published on

the GCA website (www.gcak12.org) under the Admissions tab. All billing and payments will be

processed through the FACTS Tuition Management System.

In addition, parents of international students are responsible for all GCA-assessed fees and service

charges. They are also responsible for travel, room and board, and personal expenses for their

students.

PARTIAL YEAR ENROLLEES

Tuition for a partial year will be calculated based on the month of enrollment and a ten-month school

year; no partial month calculations will apply. All fees will apply in full.

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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND SCHOLARSHIPS

It is recognized that many families have to weigh the financial impacts along with the potential

life-changing value of providing a Christian education at Greenwood Christian Academy (GCA). It is

the desire of the administration to strive to work with each family to create such an opportunity for

each student.

All GCA grants of financial assistance and scholarships are funded by the budgeted gross tuition and

contributions and fund-raising activities. These are summarized on the GCA website

(www.gcak12.org) on the current year tuition page under the Admissions tab.

PARENTS’ FINANCIAL COMMITMENT

Each year, parents shall sign a Parents’ Financial Commitment, which stipulates the total obligation,

less any tuition assistance to arrive at the net tuition obligation for the school year. In the FACTS

Tuition Management System, a number of pay timing options are displayed for the parents to choose.

This financial commitment form MUST be completed as part of the registration process to use this

system.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Through the FACTS Tuition Management System, GCA will bill all tuition, fees, and service charges.

All parents will utilize the payment options in the FACTS Tuition Management System, as it is more

secure than using checks, and less subject to abuse than paying in cash or by check.

Fees and charges for services will be billed with specific due dates for payment through automatic

withdrawal (ACH) through the FACTS Tuition Management System.

The FACTS Tuition Management System offers a number of options for payment of tuition – annual,

semi-annual, or monthly. Methods of payment supported include check, cash, wire transfer, credit

card, or automatic withdrawal (ACH) from checking, savings, investment, and/or Education Savings

(Section 529) Plan accounts. Those wishing to pay by credit card will be assessed a fee to cover

charges by credit card issuers.

DELINQUENCIES

If financial problems arise, GCA encourages the family to communicate the cause of the issue and

possible alternatives for payment plan PRIOR TO becoming late for any scheduled payment. GCA is

willing to work with parents in making special arrangements.

STUDENT WITHDRAWAL POLICY

1. The annual re-enrollment fee per student is billed each February. When paid, the annual

student commitment fee reserves the seat for the upcoming school year for each student

currently enrolled, and obligates the family to the withdrawal policy should their enrollment

plans change.

2. Students who will not be returning for the next school year must notify the Admissions

department by completing the withdrawal notification form by March 31.

3. Students who withdraw for the upcoming school year after March 31 will be subject to the

withdrawal policy below. The annual commitment fee (re-enrollment fee) is non-refundable.

This also applies to new families who have paid the enrollment fees upon application to

Greenwood Christian Academy.

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Withdraw Policy and Enrollment/Re-Enrollment Fees

● It is our desire to remain fiscally responsible and to be good stewards of the financial

blessing God has provided us. It is also our goal to be good stewards of the financial

commitment our families have made to their children’s education. In our striving for

such, and in order to maintain a sound operating budget, Greenwood Christian

Academy has authorized a schedule for payment of tuition in the event a student

withdraws after they have enrolled. The authorization of this payment schedule allows

us to maintain the highest level of sound fiscal management as GCA bases its

employment decisions and availability on enrollment commitments.

● *Please note: All student billing accounts must be paid in full before Greenwood

Christian Academy will release academic records/transcripts to another school. Official

transcripts and diplomas will be withheld if a senior’s account has not been paid in full

by the last day of their academic year.

Withdrawals After Enrollment

○ Parents withdrawing their student(s) from Greenwood Christian Academy for the

upcoming school year or during the current school year will be assessed a portion of the

tuition based on the date that the admissions department receives the withdrawal

notice following the schedule below.

Withdrawal Fees for the 2021-22 School Year

Date of Notification of Withdrawal Amount Due to GCA

● June 1 - August 31, 2020, 25% of annual tuition

● September 1 - October 31, 2020, 50% of annual tuition

● November 1 - December 31, 2020, 75% of annual tuition

● After January 1, 2021, 100% of annual tuition*

REGISTRATION FEES

GCA has three classes of registration fees:

1. New Student Application Fee: this NON-REFUNDABLE fee must be paid and submitted with

the new enrollment admissions form to the administrative office before a new enrollment

procedure can start.

2. New Admissions Enrollment Fee: upon acceptance, this NON-REFUNDABLE fee must be

paid and submitted to the administrative office to hold a position for the new student in the

next school year, even if placed on the waiting list. It is refundable only if the family is notified

that no position in the class is available on September 1 and they decide to remove the student

from the waiting list.

3. Re-enrollment Registration Fee: this NON-REFUNDABLE fee. All current families will

automatically be re-enrolled (rolling enrollment) on February 1st and charged a re-enrollment

fee through FACTS unless the finance office is notified prior to the February 1st deadline.

Amount of Fees: Each January, the Superintendent will establish the registration fees for the

upcoming school year. Fee information for the current year is published on the GCA website

(www.gcak12.org) as of current tuition and fees under the Admissions tab. No registration will be

processed until the enrollment fee is received.

24Updated 7/31/2021

SUPPLY/BOOK/ACTIVITY/TECHNOLOGY FEE

Amount of Fees: Each January, the Superintendent will establish the fee for the upcoming school

year. The fee is based on the cost of textbooks purchased, classroom supplies, and technology used in

the classroom. Fee information for the current year is published on the GCA website

(www.gcak12.org) under the Admissions tab.

The NON-REFUNDABLE book/activity/technology fee is due June 30 for all returning and new

students.

No student will be allowed to attend classes after September 1st if a fee has not been received.

SUPPLEMENTAL/OTHER FEES AND CHARGES FOR SERVICES

Certain optional services, courses, or activities may require additional costs for supplies or materials.

These may include but are not limited to:

o Bus transportation

o Elective Art classes

o Elective Culinary Arts classes

o Music participation/band

o Gone Boarding Elective class

o Advanced Elective Science Courses/lab fees

o Advanced Placement (AP) Courses/textbooks

o Dual Credit Courses /textbooks

o AP Testing

o PE Uniforms

o Athletic team participation

o Summer sports camp

o Clubs (cheerleading, bowling, etc.)

o National Honor Society

o Yearbook

o Field trips

o Laptop repair

o Homecoming events and dances

o Yearly Class Trips

o Prom

o Parking Permit

o Senior parking spaces

Fees and charges are billed through the FACTS Tuition Management System. All fees are

payable at the time stipulated at billing and are considered late if not paid on the due date.

ACADEMIC PHILOSOPHIES & POLICIES

ACHIEVEMENT TESTING

According to the Indiana Code Sec. 4, (a) A nonpublic school seeking accreditation must participate in

the Indiana Assessment testing program (Formerly ISTEP, now ILEARN) under IC 20-32-5 and 511 IAC

5-2.

The school will either administer or provide necessary information for students to apply for and take

specific required tests for future education or career planning. Such tests are the Preliminary

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Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT)—generally taken in the 10th and 11th grades at the GCA campus or

an off-site facility; the Scholastic Aptitude Test I (SAT-I) and the American College Test (ACT)--either or

both generally taken at the end of the 11th grade or during the 12th grade, with applications being on

collegeboard.com.

ACADEMIC STANDARDS

PHILOSOPHY

“Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not act rightly because we have virtue or

excellence, but we rather have those because we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do.

Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” -Aristotle

It is the belief of GCA that quality education is the result of (1) a curriculum that integrates God’s

Truth into all courses and adequately prepares the student for further educational endeavors; (2)

teachers that are Christian in philosophy; (3) class sizes which enable a student to derive the

maximum benefits from their academic exposure: and (4) prepares students for college or career

readiness based on both the Indiana Academic Standards, as well the National college and career

readiness standards.

Each student is expected to use all available school and home resources to perform at his highest level

in order to take full advantage of the educational program provided by GCA. Originality and creativity

are encouraged within the organized framework of the classroom.

STANDARDS

It is the belief of GCA that quality education is a result of (1) a curriculum that integrates God’s Truth

into all courses and adequately prepares the student for further educational endeavors; (2) teachers

that are Christian in philosophy; and (3) class sizes that derive the maximum benefits of academic

exposure.

Each student is expected to use all available school and home resources to perform at his highest level

in order to take full advantage of the educational program. His originality and creativity are

encouraged within the organized framework of the classroom.

COURSE OF STUDY

PHILOSOPHY

“I became all things to all men that I might by some means, win some.” 1 Corinthians 9.22

GCA provides a graded Course of Study for all disciplines. Provisions are made for periodic evaluations

and revisions of courses of study in order to remain aligned with the cultural and educational

changes. Curriculum development reflects GCA’s overall purpose and is based on sound research

dealing with child and adolescent growth, development, and cognitive learning abilities. The methods

of instruction promote outcome-based learning through experiential activities, teacher-directed

motivation and higher-order thinking skills. GCA’s goal is to meet appropriate cognitive growth and

development requirements in academic, spiritual, social, and physical performance.

Additionally, the Course of Study is enriched with all aspects of the fine arts, foreign language,

technology, career exploration, and physical education.

STANDARDS

The high school Course of Study is designed to meet the requirements for both the Indiana Core 40

high school diploma and the Core 40 Advanced Honors Diploma which prepares college-bound

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students for the high standards and academic demands of college life. College-bound students will

have the ability to take both Advanced Placement and/or Dual credit courses in various subjects

through either Grace College or Vincennes University

CURRICULUM AND TEXTBOOKS

PHILOSOPHY

“Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.”

Proverbs 10:17

The curriculum includes not only the textbooks used in the classroom but also the lessons and

additional academic content taught in any specific course. Both textbooks and curriculum content are

important factors within the GCA educational framework and must be carefully formulated. In order

to create the best learning environment for all students, curriculum committees shall be composed of

teachers, administrators, Board of Education Committee members, and selected parents. The

committees shall screen potential textbook adoptions to determine how closely they align with GCA’s

philosophy and objectives, as well as with the Indiana Academic Standards. It is also expected that all

instructors would keep to the specific learning standards, lessons, assignments, and materials

approved by the curriculum committee. It is recognized that Christian publishers provide a Christian

perspective especially needed in the social and physical science areas that have been so strongly

influenced by humanistic philosophy. Christian publishers provide an emphasis on Christian values

and thinking. Therefore, when deemed appropriate for the particular class, specific Christian

textbooks are selected. In other areas, secular textbooks may be used, but the curriculum is infused

with the fundamental Christian values expressed in the GCA philosophy.

STANDARDS

It is GCA’s aim to provide a Christian education that excels in academic, spiritual, and

extra-curricular excellence. It realizes that parents desire their children to be spiritually and

academically qualified to assume their proper roles in society. Because this is a step-by-step

progression, GCA tries to offer instruction at each cognitive level that motivates growth, but

instruction that is not beyond the students’ cognitive understanding. The following standards are

assumed for GCA students:

STUDENTS: Academically, the students will be provided with instruction on their cognitive level with

the opportunity to excel. All instruction will be geared toward college and career-ready students.

GOAL: The primary goal of GCA is to academically equip students to be able to reason, reflect, and

make sound decisions on their own. In order to reach this goal, GCA is giving students critical

thinking tools to prepare for a college and career-ready future. Through directed instruction and

employing the use of higher-order thinking skills, greater student achievement is gained.

CLASS SIZES

The ideal and maximum class sizes are defined by many factors, such as age and maturity of

students, size of classroom facility, type of curriculum being used, etc. Therefore, the policy for class

size is to consider all the related factors given and to implement the optimum size.

STUDENT CLASS SCHEDULES

The high school class schedule shall be designed by the Administrator to effectively meet the needs of

the majority of enrolled students. The schedule of all classes shall provide for the time necessary to

meet State of Indiana credit requirements

Note: School doors open at 7:30 a.m. All students shall remain in assigned areas until 8:00 am.

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Cougar Time will consist of the following: Monday and Tuesday will be clubs or resource times for

students to get assistance from a teacher as needed. Thursday will be Chapel, and Friday will be

Cougar Den meetings (our mentor groups). No Cougar Time on Wednesdays.

BLOCK Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

BLOCK ONE- Blue/White 8:15-9:35

BLOCK TWO- Blue/White 9:40-11:00

COUGAR TIME 11:05-11:35

LUNCH 11:40-12:10

BLOCK THREE- Blue/White 12:15- 1:35

BLOCK FOUR- Blue/White 1:40-3:00

Modified Schedule: Wednesdays Early Release HS @ 2:00 pm

HS Times Blocks

8:15- 8:50 Blue One

8:55 - 9:30 White One

9:35 - 10:10 Blue Two

10:15 - 10:50 White Two

10:55 - 11:30 Blue Three

11:35 - 12:05 LUNCH

12:10 - 12:45 White Three

12:50 - 1:20 Blue Four

1:25 - 2:00 White Four

TEACHING OF LITERATURE

The educational program at GCA helps the students develop a Biblical worldview which will equip

them with a consistent value system. This value system will serve as a grid through which they will

learn to evaluate all that they see and hear.

Without this grid, an individual is in danger of being manipulated into lifestyles characterized by the

world’s philosophies. A person is constantly bombarded with worldly inputs that tell him how to live.

GCA strongly believes that the Biblical worldview is the correct one--the only one valid for faith and

life! An individual with a framework for Biblical thinking is equipped to make a proper judgment in all

areas of life. While this kind of decision-making comes later in life, students at GCA will be building

this grid--even beginning at a young age.

The teaching of literature fits into this scheme of grid development. Using good literature (American,

English, as well as other cultural and traditional) can help develop this process. Literature must be

taught with analysis and evaluation. Selected and approved literature that is not in total agreement

with Christian values may be taught to encourage students to evaluate and analyze the written word

on the basis of Scriptural Truth!

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SEX EDUCATION

This area of the HS curriculum is addressed by a “cross-discipline” approach. The spiritual dimension

is studied in Bible classes The physical aspects are studied in the Health and Science classes. Even

the cultural aspects of this issue are addressed in the history and humanity classes. It is the intent of

GCA to make the child aware of this area in his life and how he is to properly incorporate it into his

Christian lifestyle. Appropriate materials for “sex education” are also available from the classroom

instructors for parent’s use.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical education is important to the development of good physical and mental health. GCA’s

physical education curriculum has been developed and is implemented by the P.E. teachers. All

activities are planned in the best interest of a student’s safety.

Every student is required to participate during P.E. unless there is a note from a physician indicating

that a student is not to participate. If such a note is received, the student will be excused from P.E.

class until a note from a physician indicates otherwise. A student may be excused for not more than

three (3) days at a time with a note from a parent. This may be done in the case of a minor injury

and/or sickness from which the student is recovering. No student will be excused for more than three

(3) consecutive days unless there is a note from an attending physician.

HS students must dress out daily in a GCA issued P.E. shirt and shorts. These uniforms will be

available for purchase at Parent Orientation night and/or the main school office, as well as online

at https://www.bsnteamsports.com/shop/tGLfQVRjpm Students, who tear, cut, or write

anything other than their names on their P.E. clothes will not be allowed to wear the altered

clothing and will be required to buy new clothing. P.E. Teachers will review these requirements

during P.E. classes.

Implementation:

First Violation: Students will not be able to participate in P.E. for that day

Subsequent Violations: Students will not be able to participate in P.E. for that day and

will be docked (based on the PE teacher’s discretion) in the participation grade.

NOTE: If the required P.E. dress is in conflict with a family’s religious position, the family may

discuss alternative options with the school administration.

GRADING/REPORTING PERIODS

● Each semester shall be divided into two (2) nine-week grading and reporting periods.

● With HS students, in computing the final semester grade for the course, all grades will be

determined in the following manner:

� The first nine-week grade (value of 45%), the second nine-week grade (value of 45%) and

a cumulative semester assessment (final exam value of 10%) for each subject shall be

averaged to get the first-semester grade. This shall be repeated for the second semester.

� The first semester and the second-semester grades shall become a part of the student’s

permanent record.

Senior Final Exam Exemptions

During the first and second semester, seniors may be exempt from finals in individual courses

if they received no lower than a 93% in both grading periods that semester and received no

more than three tardies and no unexcused absences per semester.

GRADING STANDARDS

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The following chart lists the grading standards to be used in GCA academic program:

LETTER PERCENTAGE NUMERICAL

GRADE RANGE EQUIVALENT

A+ 100 4.00

A 93.00–99.99 4.00

A- 90.00-92.99 3.67

B+ 87.00-89.99 3.33

B 83.00-86.99 3.00

B- 80.00-82.99 2.67

C+ 77.00-79.99 2.33

C 73.00-76.99 2.00

C- 70.00-72.99 1.67

D+ 67.00-69.99 1.33

D 63.00-66.99 1.00

D- 60.00-62.99 0.67

F 00.00-59.99 0.00

I 00.00-00.00 0.00

AU 00.00-00.00 0.00

GRADE RECOVERY

In the event, an HS student fails a required class; a student must retake the course and the two

courses’ grades will be averaged together into the student’s GPA. However, both grades will appear on

the permanent transcripts.

INCOMPLETE GRADE

An “incomplete” (I) grade is given only when the teacher determines there are justifiable reasons for

the work to be late (i.e. illness). An “incomplete” (I) grade shall be changed to reflect the earned grade

with the zero’s if the work is not completed in ten (10) school days after the grading period is

completed.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES IN HIGH SCHOOL

Advanced Placement (AP) courses may be offered as HS electives in certain disciplines. As there are

additional instructional requirements required to be able to offer such college-level courses, a fee may

be assessed. Credits earned count toward the graduation requirement.

Grades will be computed and included in calculating the Grade Point Average (GPA) earned at GCA.

There is no premium for grades earned in AP courses.

If a student withdraws prior to completing the course, there will be no refund of fees paid.

COURSE CREDITS FOR TRANSFERS AFTER 1st

SEMESTER OF 9TH

GRADE

GCA grants credit for classes from other public, private and home schools. A semester course receives

1 credit; a year-long course receives 2 credits. Written evidence of proficiency must be received by the

guidance office before such credits will be entered into the student’s transcript. Students eligible for

graduation from GCA will have all credits on one transcript showing total credits earned toward

graduation. Semester notations will designate the school in which the credits were earned.

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GCA HIGH SCHOOL COURSE OFFERINGS

Core Disciplines ^CORE 40 DIPLOMA

(40 credits required)

*HONORS DIPLOMA

(47 credits required)

OFFERED

COURSES

English 8 credits 8 credits English 9^*

English 10^*

English 11^*

English 11 Honors

English 12^*

American Literature +(Dual Credit)

Composition 101 +(Dual Credit)

Composition 102 +(Dual Credit)

Mathematics 6 credits of High

School Math

Students must take a math

or quantitative reasoning

course in each year of HS.

8 credits Algebra I^*

Geometry^*

Applied Algebra 2^*

Algebra II^*

Pre-Calculus +

AP® Calculus +

AP® Statistics +

Probability and Statistics

Social Studies 6 credits 6 credits World History^*

Ethnic Studies#/Indiana History #

U.S. History^*

AP® U.S. History +

Current Events

Government ^*

Economics ^*

Science 6 credits

2 credits in Biology

2 Credits in

Chem/Physics/ICP

2 credits in any other

Core 40 Science

6 credits Biology^*

ICP Integrated Chem/Phys#

Chemistry#

AP®Chemistry

Earth Science

Physics#

Forensics

Anatomy & Physiology#

Bible 8 credits

(GCA REQUIREMENT)

8 credits

(GCA REQUIREMENT)

Freshmen Bible (Life of Christ/Spiritual Formation)

Understanding the Faith

Understanding the Times

Senior Bible (Understanding the Culture)

Physical

Education

2 credits 2 credits Physical Education 9^*

Physical Education 10^*

Health and

Wellness

1 credit 1 credit Health 10^*

Interpersonal Relationships (IPR)

Health and Wellness

Foreign

Language

4 credits in the

same language

6 credits in the

same language or

4 of one and 4 of

another

Spanish I ^*

Spanish II ^*

Spanish III *

Spanish IV/V

College & Career

Readiness

4 credits

(GCA REQUIREMENT)

4 credits

(GCA REQUIREMENT)

Preparing for College and Careers (9)

College Assessment (SAT/ACT) Prep (11)

College and Career Prep (12)

Adulting 101 (12)

General/

Directed

Electives

6 additional

credits of either a

science elective,

math elective,

social studies

elective, or

general elective

See below for

specific

requirements of

the Academic

Honors Diploma

Some fine arts

classes are

offered on a

bi-yearly rotation

Drawing 1,2,3/Painting 1,2,3

3D Art/Fiber Art/Studio Art

Intro to Film & Broadcast Video

Choir

Band/Chapel Band

AP® Music Theory

Cadet Teaching/Career Internship

Culinary Arts/ADV CA

Visual Journalism/Yearbook

Early Childhood Education I/II

Performance Theater/Choreography

Tech Theatre/SEAL

DC Criminal Justice

Psychology/Sociology

Speech and Communications

Political Science

Weight Training and Conditioning

Gone Boarding

Advanced PE

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CREDITS FOR HIGH SCHOOL COURSES PRIOR TO 9TH

GRADE

The principal of GCA may grant credits for high-school equivalent courses completed prior to 9th

grade. Such requests are most often for courses in mathematics, science, and foreign language.

Credits for such courses may be granted if the following criteria are met:

1. The parents of the student for whom the credits are requested must submit a written petition,

with the appropriate documentation.

a. The courses were presented through interaction with a teacher or through an accredited

correspondence school.

2. No more than six-semester credits (three year-long courses) for high school equivalent courses

completed prior to 9th

grade may be granted to any student.

GCA reserves the right to reject such a petition if the course is not deemed to be equivalent to the GCA

course or to rescind the credits initially granted if the student struggles in the advanced level of the

same subject, and must be rescheduled into the course for which the credit was initially sought.

Though these credits reduce the number of credits required in a particular subject area, they do not

reduce the number of credits that must be earned at GCA to receive a diploma.

Grades earned in high school equivalent courses are neither entered on the transcript nor included in

the calculations of the GPA earned at GCA.

COURSES COMPLETED IN OTHER SCHOOLS

High school courses completed in other high schools

1. Credits for courses completed in other public or private high schools will be accepted with

appropriate transcripts.

College courses

1. Dual credit for courses completed in colleges or universities will be granted if approved in

writing in advance of class registration.

HOMEWORK POLICIES

ASSIGNMENT AND RESPONSIBILITIES

GCA recognizes the educational value and importance of homework for students. GCA believes that

meaningful home study is a necessary part of each student’s educational program and that it should

be related to the educational philosophy and goals of the school. Homework should be a purposeful

extension of the school day which provides the student additional opportunities for the development

and reinforcement of the school’s instructional objectives.

The assignment of homework shall be regular and reasonable and is encouraged when it contributes

to the student’s education through individual work, responsibility, completion of projects, and the

establishment of good study habits. The completion of homework assignments shall be recorded by

the teacher and included in the evaluation of the student’s progress. Christ-like character qualities of

responsibility, initiative, orderliness, and thoroughness are developed as a result of homework. Care

will be taken, though, not to take away from the family unit by requiring excessive homework. Family

communication and togetherness must be a priority.

1. Definition--homework is defined as out-of-class preparation in a given subject area which is

assigned by a student’s teacher. This assignment is of such a nature that the student must

complete all or part of the assignment during non-class time. Each assignment may further be

defined as one or more of the following four types:

a. Practice--most common; given to help students to master specific skills; limited to material

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presented in class.

b. Preparation--given to prepare students to gain maximum benefit from subsequent lessons.

c. Extension--given to determine if students can transfer a skill or concept to another

situation.

d. Creative--requires a student to integrate skills and concepts in the process in producing a

response or product.

2. Teacher’s Responsibilities:

a. Teachers should plan meaningful homework assignments in conjunction with their daily

lesson plans.

b. Homework assignments should clearly lead to the accomplishment of instructional

objectives.

c. Students should know exactly what is expected and receive all necessary clarification

pertinent to the assignment.

d. The timely and complete response to the student’s homework assignment by the teacher is

essential. Homework should be received, recorded, and included as a part of the student’s

progress evaluation.

e. Teachers should make sure homework assignments are coordinated--to increase

communication and cooperation among teachers so that students are not overburdened

with heavy workloads from all their teachers at the same time.

3. Students' Responsibilities:

a. It is the responsibility of the student to complete assigned homework.

b. In order to accomplish this task, the student must plan and budget the necessary study

time.

c. It is the student’s responsibility to seek additional clarification and assistance from the

teacher as soon as the need for such assistance is realized.

d. The assignment of homework helps students understand that learning is not just

classroom activity.

4. Parent/Home Responsibilities:

a. Parents should recognize the important role of homework to the total instructional program

of their child.

b. Parents should make themselves aware of the assignments and the expectations of the

school and of the individual teacher.

c. Parents should provide a suitable place and environment in the home for the completion of

homework assignments.

d. Parents should help their child plan and budget the appropriate amount of study time for

the completion of the homework assignments.

e. Parents should feel free to consult with the teacher about any questions pertaining to

homework assignments.

HOMEWORK QUANTITY

Homework serves two purposes: (1) it reinforces classwork; and (2) it allows enrichment and

creativity. The amount of time students need to do homework varies from day to day and from

student to student. The faculty attempts to assign a reasonable amount of homework in light of the

subject matter and the abilities and needs of the students.

The faculty urges that each student plan out-of-school activities wisely so that adequate time is

provided for homework. Wise planning of time will allow for completed homework assignments as well

as for the development of personal responsibility.

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Teachers are expected to give reasonable homework assignments with consideration being given to

Wednesday-night church meetings and special church activities. At these times, the homework load

should be lighter.

Extra Work Requests

Students often ask for extra work in order to improve their grades. There is a fallacy in this request.

If the student is not doing well with regular work, how can the student do better with a greater

quantity of work? Therefore, extra work is not permitted for the purpose of improving grades.

Teachers may, at their discretion, allow a student to repeat an assignment, do an assignment

in a different format, or otherwise individualize a previous assignment in order to replace a low

grade. The repetition of an assignment, however, must be completed within a short time of the

original assignment. This is not permissible at the end of the semester as a desperate effort to

improve a low

grade in a subject.

During a nine-week grading period, the teacher may assign an “extra credit” project to all

students with a specific date due for submission. Such a project is above and beyond the

regular classroom work and is intended to provide for those students with an interest in the

subject additional opportunities for an educational experience. If such an assignment is

submitted by the due date, the student shall receive “extra credit” to the regular classroom

work based on the value of the work submitted.

HONOR ROLL RECOGNITION

In order to give appropriate recognition, students who do well in the area of academics are qualified to

be a part of the Honor Roll system. Honor roll recognition is awarded during each grading period by

recognizing those students who have received an A or B in all of their classes. An “A” Honor Roll has

also been established in each grading period for those students who have received an A in all academic

courses.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

The National Honor Society (NHS) is an organization established to recognize outstanding high school

students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to recognize and honor those students who have

demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Selection for

membership is by a faculty council and is based on outstanding scholarship, character, leadership,

and service. Requirements to be a part of the NHS can be found on the website.

YEARLY AWARDS

An awards ceremony will be held at the end of each school year. The following three awards will be

given to one student per grade level per academic discipline. The awards are rooted in Matthew 22:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the

first and greatest commandment.”

1) The Heart Award - A student who consistently works hard, is self-motivated, pursues their

maximum potential, puts forth their best effort, and perseveres through hardship from start to

finish in their study of a subject area.

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2) The Soul Award - A student who consistently engages with teachers and peers in class,

displays curiosity, takes joy in learning, pursues the deep foundational truths in a subject

area, and produces top quality work and creative expression in response to their studies.

3) The Mind Award - A student who consistently displays discipline, is attentive to details, is

punctual, thinks critically, solves problems, relishes challenges, seizes opportunities to expand

learning, and pursues true excellence in a subject area.

CUM LAUDE SOCIETY

The high school Cum Laude Society is composed of high-achieving students in academics.

Students receive recognition for their academic achievements at the end of the year based on

their GPA as calculated after the 3rd Quarter. Cumulative GPAs will be used to determine

special recognition at graduation.

The following thresholds are observed:

Cum Laude 3.65 - 3.99

Magna Cum Laude 3.99

Summa Cum Laude 4.0

VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN

The valedictorian and salutatorian will be determined by an alternate 12-point scale for all 8

semesters as follows:

o 12 = A+

o 11 = A

o 10 = A-

o 9 = B+

o 8 = B

o 7 = B-

o 6 = C+

o 5 = C

o 4 = C-

o 3 = D+

o 2 = D

o 1 = D-

o 0 = F

● To be considered as a valedictorian/salutatorian, you may not retake a course for

grade recovery.

● To be considered for Valedictorian, a student must have at least three Dual credit

or AP courses (one more than required for the honors diploma).

● A candidate must have acceptable citizenship behavior.

● A candidate must have attended GCA for at least 6 semesters.

CHEATING & PLAGIARISM

While plagiarism is a form of cheating, it will have its own set of consequences separate from cheating.

CHEATING

ACCORDING TO THE MERRIAM-WEBSTER ONLINE DICTIONARY, TO "CHEAT ACADEMICALLY"

MEANS

● Obtaining or attempting to obtain, or aiding another to obtain credit for work, or any

improvement in evaluation of performance, by any dishonest or deceptive means.

Teachers are required to take precautions in terms of test security and the structure of the

classroom-testing environment in order to protect the students from unnecessary temptations.

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Classes should always be reminded by the teacher of the consequences of cheating. Cheating

includes, but is not limited to, copying homework, making your homework or other assignment

available to another student for copying, informing another student what is on a test that you have

already taken, using answer keys on any assessment from any outside source (including online

versions), and unauthorized assistance on tests and quizzes.

If it is determined that a student has indeed cheated, the following actions shall be taken:

1. The student, parents, and administration shall be notified in all cases.

2. For the first offense (cumulative in all classes*), the student shall lose full credit on the

assignment and serve a lunch detention.

3. For the second offense (cumulative in all classes*), the student shall lose one full letter grade

on the nine-week grading period in the class that the offense occurred. A conference with the

parents, student, teacher, and administration may be held and the student will serve

after-school detention. If the student holds any sort of leadership position in a club, class,

and/or athletic team, the student shall lose the position.

4. For the third offense (cumulative in all classes*), the student shall automatically fail the

nine-week grading period in the class that the offense occurred. A conference with the

parents, student, teacher, and administration shall be held and disciplinary action will be given

as appropriate.

*Offenses accumulate per school year, cumulative in all classes. The academic consequences will

occur in the courses for which each specific offense occurred. For example, if two offenses occur but in

different classes, the student would lose full credit in the assignment in Class #1 (first offense) and

one full letter grade in Class #2 (second offense).

PLAGIARISM

Plagiarism is an act of fraud. It involves both stealing someone else's work and passing it off as your

own. It may include:

● copying words or ideas without giving credit

● failing to put a quotation in quotation marks

● giving incorrect information about the source of a quotation

● changing words but copying the sentence structure of a source without giving credit

● recycling your own paper or large parts of your own paper for a different class without

permission

● including information in your paper without documentation that your audience does not

know (common knowledge)

When dealing with acts of plagiarism, teachers may use discretion based upon the circumstances and

the following aspects of the incident: the form of the plagiarism (e.g., a grammatical citation error vs.

a deliberate failure to cite), the grade level of the student (e.g., a 6th grader vs. a senior), and the

intent behind the plagiarism, if that can be determined (e.g., deliberate and premeditated vs.

accidental oversight).

If it is determined that a student has made an error as opposed to a deliberate effort to plagiarize, the

teacher may remove credit for that portion of the assignment as deemed appropriate by that teacher.

The teacher may encourage the student to fix the error and give partial credit if deemed appropriate.

The incident will be logged in FACTS but will have no behavioral consequences.

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If it is determined that a student has deliberately plagiarized, the following actions shall be taken:

1. The student, parents, and administration shall be notified in all cases.

2. For the first offense (cumulative in all classes*), the student will lose at least 50% off of

the final grade of the plagiarized assignment, need to redo the assignment, and serve

lunch detention.

3. For the second offense (cumulative in all classes*), the student will lose full credit on

the assignment and serve after-school detention.

4. For the third offense (cumulative in all classes*), the student will lose a letter grade in

the class and be subject to suspension or further disciplinary action as deemed

appropriate by the administration.

*Offenses accumulate per school year, cumulative in all classes. The academic consequences will

occur in the courses for which each specific offense occurred. For example, if two offenses occur but in

different classes, the student would lose 50% of the points in Class #1 (first offense) and full credit in

Class #2 (second offense).

PROBATION (Academic)

Each student must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (a “C” average based on a 4.0

scale) for the last semester of academic studies. Students who fall below a 2.0 GPA or receive two (2) or

more “F” grades by a semester’s end will be placed on academic probation for the following semester.

Following the conclusion of the probation period, students who have not raised their GPA to a 2.0 with

no more than one “F” shall not be permitted to remain enrolled in GCA. In the case of extenuating

circumstances, the administrators and parents could form a contract providing the student with a

second chance.

SECONDARY/HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT (GRADES 9 - 12)

Once a student enters the ninth grade, no longer is he subject to promotion or retention procedures.

In order to meet graduation requirements, a high school student must pass specific courses and earn

a specific number of credits to be eligible for a high school Core 40 diploma. If a student fails a

required course for graduation, he must retake the course (as often as is necessary) until he passes it.

Please see the course description handbook for detailed information on Core 40 and Honors Diploma

requirements.

TRANSCRIPTS/REPORT CARDS

Student’s progress can be accessed anytime by computer through FACT-SIS. Parents/guardians will

be given login information at the beginning of the school year. This information will stay the same for

the student the entire time they are enrolled at GCA.

Grades 9 through 12th grade will receive a progress report midway through the nine-week grading

period. This information will be sent home via email.

Official grade cards will be emailed to parents/guardians at the end of each nine weeks grading period.

Final report cards will be emailed at the end of the school year.

If your bill is not current, your student(s) grade card will be withheld until your bill is made current.

Should you need a transcript of your student’s records at Greenwood Christian Academy keep in mind

all bills must be made current in order to release that information.

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GUIDANCE AND COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS

GCA maintains a guidance program comprising individual and group services designed to give

systematic assistance to all students in achieving optimal development in spiritual, educational, and

vocational concerns. Out-of-school programs, with prior approval of the head of school, shall be used

to supplement the school’s guidance capabilities. The following is a non-inclusive listing of student

services available through the guidance office:

Academic assistance: Diploma requirements tracking

Student class schedules

Transcript control and preparation

Tutors database

Standardized Testing:

PSAT (offered at GCA)

SAT (offered at GCA)

ACT (offered at GCA)

Accuplacer

NWEA

College assistance: Information files

Representative visits

Parent information meetings

Application assistance (Senior Year)

Scholarship information and application assistance

Career assistance: Work permit processing

Preparing for College and Careers Course

TUTORIAL HELP

Students will sometimes need additional help in a subject. The first place to turn for help is to the

teacher of the course. Most teachers at GCA are willing to give extra time to students who are

conscientiously trying to improve. This time can only be before school, after school, during the

planning period, and with the final approval of the teacher before tutorial work begins. Students may

also be paired with peers who understand the material and can help. Most students who are

struggling need only a little extra time to bring them to an understanding of the material. For students

with severe learning difficulties, an outside tutor may be needed.

The school faculty and Administrator may be able to provide names of qualified tutors. An outside

tutor should confer with the teacher of the class in order to coordinate objectives and methods. It is

imperative that the administration be aware of all students receiving outside tutorial help.

Response to Intervention (RTI)

Response to Intervention (RTI) is a multi-tier approach to the early identification and support of

students with mild learning needs. The RTI process begins with high-quality instruction and universal

screening of all children in the general education classroom. This intervention allows GCA to

determine how best to meet the needs of all learners. However, GCA has limited resources and will

determine if our program is the best academic fit for your child.

Special Services and Resources

GCA North works in congruence with Center Grove to provide essential educational services for

students with ISPs (IEP). Gca services all 504 plans and ELP (English- Learner plans) in house.

Determination for these services are subject to educational testing or a medical disability.

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ATTENDANCE POLICIES

ARRIVAL TIME

High School (grades 9-12) begins promptly at 8:15 a.m. Students arriving prior to 8:00 a.m. must stay

in the student lobby.

DEPARTURE TIME: Afternoon Procedures on HS Campus

A student will only be released to a parent or other adult on the student’s approved list. If a person on

the student’s approved list is to pick up the child, that person will need to sign him/her out. Proof of

identity should be available. If a person who is not on a student's approved list is to pick up a

student, the office must be notified in writing or by phone of this fact. Students will be dismissed at

3:00 (2:00 on early release Wednesdays). There will be no staff responsible for being on site after 4:00,

so all students must be picked up by 4:00 (includes early release days) unless they have a club or

other activity meeting onsite

Early Departure

If a student must leave school early the following procedures should be followed:

1. A written note, a phone call, or email to the front desk is necessary stating the date,

time, and reason for the early dismissal. The student is to remain in class until the

person designated to transport the student has arrived.

2. If an emergency develops during the day, parents may request an early dismissal by

telephone.

3. All students must be signed out at the front desk before leaving the school grounds if

leaving before regular dismissal time.

EARLY RELEASE WEDNESDAYS

On every Wednesday except the FIRST AND LAST Wednesday of each semester, students will be

dismissed one hour early. We will be dismissing all students at 2:00 pm.  The purpose of this early

one-hour dismissal every Wednesday is to allow Faculty & Staff to receive required training mandated

by the Indiana Department of Education, as well as additional professional development

opportunities.  Please make arrangements for early pickup each Wednesday.

ATTENDANCE RECORDS

Daily records will be kept and entered on each student’s permanent record.

SCHOOL ABSENCE

Regular attendance is essential for a student’s success in school. Attendance at school provides

the student with essential classroom experiences. These experiences are composed of not only

direct instruction, but class participation as well. The instructional program is a progressive and

sequential experience. It is generally impossible for that experience to be “made up.” For this

reason, excessive absences will not be permitted.

Greenwood Christian Academy is accredited by the State of Indiana; thus, students are expected

to comply with the Indiana State Law regarding attendance. Students are expected to attend

school daily. This is essential for maximum student progress to be realized in the instructional

program. There is a close correlation between attendance and achievement in school. A day lost

in the classroom group environment can never be effectively duplicated. Regular daily

attendance is the responsibility of the parent and the student. We realize that some absences

are unavoidable such as sickness or a death in the family; however, we expect parents to

cooperate in helping to keep absences at the lowest possible minimum.

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ATTENDANCE CLASSIFICATIONS AND DEFINITIONS

● Absence - An absence is declared when a student is not in class. A student who misses

more than 30 minutes of a class, or a student found to be truant for any part of the period

shall be considered absent. Attendance will be recorded each period by the classroom

teacher. This record will serve as the official documentation of classroom attendance.

● Excused Absence – All absences verified by a parent/guardian within 48 hours of the

student’s return to school shall be excused. Excused absences count toward the attendance

limit imposed by GCA.

● Educationally Related Non-Classroom Activity. The governing body of a school corporation may

authorize the absence and excuse of a student who attends any educationally related

non-classroom activity. Any educationally related non-classroom activity must meet all the

following conditions: (1) Is consistent with and promotes the educational philosophy and goals of

the school corporation and the state board. (2) Facilitates the attainment of specific educational

objectives. (3) Is a part of the goals and objectives of an approved course or curriculum.

(4) Represents a unique educational opportunity. (5) Cannot reasonably occur without

interrupting the school day. (6) Is approved in writing by the school principal.

● Excused Absences – Excused absences still count toward a student’s total number of allowed

days missed per year.

● Death in the Immediate Family and Funeral Attendance.

● Suspensions.

● College Visits within Prescribed Limits.

● Physical or Mental Incapacitation. Documentation from a physician stating the student was

either physically or mentally incapable of attending is required. This classification includes

professional appointments.

● Professional Appointments (Medical). Documentation from a physician stating seen/treated in

their office. Only the time required for travel and the actual appointment time will be exempted.

Exempt by Statute - In accordance with the Indiana Compulsory Attendance Law, a student

excused from school attendance under this section may not be recorded as being absent on any

date for which the excuse is operative and may not be penalized by the school in any manner (I.C.

20-33-2-(14- 17.5)).

● Service as a Page or as an Honoree of the General Assembly. Must be verified by a certificate

from the secretary of the senate or the chief clerk of the House of Representatives.

● Service on Precinct Election Board or for Political Candidates or Parties. Before the date of the

election, the student must submit a document signed by one (1) of the student's parents giving

permission to participate in the election as provided in this section, and the student must

verify to school authorities the performance of services by submitting a document signed by the

candidate, political party chairman, campaign manager, or precinct officer generally describing

the duties of the student on the date of the election.

● Witness in Judicial Proceeding. Submit the subpoena or documentation to the appropriate

school authority for verification.

● Duty with Indiana National Guard. The governing body of a school corporation shall authorize

the absence and excuse of each secondary school student who is ordered to active duty with

the Indiana National Guard for not more than ten (10) days in a school year. For verification,

the student must submit to school authorities a copy of the orders to active duty and a copy of

the orders releasing the student from active duty.

● Duty with Indiana Wing of Civil Air Patrol. The governing body of a school corporation shall

authorize the absence and excuse of each secondary school student who is a member of the

Indiana wing of the civil air patrol and who is participating in a civil air patrol for not more

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than five (5) days in a school year if the student submits to school authorities’ appropriate

documentation from the Indiana wing of the civil air patrol detailing the reason for the

student's absence.

● Participation in the Indiana State Fair.

● Unexcused Absence – Any absence not verified with proper documentation within 48 hours of

the student returning to school. Unexcused absences count toward the attendance limit

imposed by GCA.

ATTENDANCE REPORTING PROCEDURES

When a student is absent from school, the following procedure must be followed:

1. A parent or guardian calls the Attendance Line at 317-215-5300 or sends an email to

attendance@gcak12.org before 10:00 AM of the day the absence occurs to notify the school

of the absence. After 10:00 AM absences may still be reported via the attendance voicemail.

The following should be included in the message:

a. The student’s name and grade

b. The name of the person making the call and the relationship to the student

c. The reason for the absence

d. The date(s) of the absence(s) and periods if not for the entire day.

e. A telephone number so the call can be verified

f. If a parent does not have access to a phone, a note from the parent/legal guardian

will be accepted on the day the student returns to school. If the absence is due to

medical, dental, or other professional appointments, a note of verification from the

place of business is required. The note should include the date, time, and length of

the appointment on a professional letterhead with phone number and address.

2. All phone calls and verification notes must be received by the Attendance Office within 48

hours of the student’s return to school in order for an absence to be excused. If this

deadline is not met, the absence will be permanently recorded as UNEXCUSED. The

attendance voicemail is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is the responsibility

of the student and parents to report absences to the school promptly.

SCHOOL INTERVENTIONS

Attendance at school is imperative for a student’s academic achievement and success. The maximum

number of absences (not including exemption by statute) is seven (7) per semester or ten days

per school calendar year. After seven days of absence from school in a semester, the student’s

circumstances will be reviewed by the administration to determine, among other things, whether the

student will receive credit for the semester. All absences, after the maximum number of absences, will

require official documentation in order to be considered excused. A telephone call will be made for any

unverified absence.

Per Indiana law, any student who is enrolled at a public or nonpublic school and accumulates at least

ten (10) unexcused absences during a school year is considered habitually truant. Any student who

accumulates at least ten (10) absences, excused or unexcused, during a school year is considered

chronically absent.

When a student has accumulated the set number of absences counted against the GCA

attendance limit, the following procedures will be followed:

1. Day Five – a letter will be emailed home to parents/guardians documenting the days

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missed through FACTS SIS.

2. Day Seven – a letter will be emailed home to parents/guardians

documenting the days missed and informing them that the attendance limit has been

reached for the current semester through FACTS SIS.

3. Day Ten- a call will be made to the parents/guardians that the student has

exceeded the limit. A meeting will be set with an administrator to discuss the next steps.

4. For students who have 10 or more unexcused absences, including class periods for high

school, a notice will be sent to the Johnson County Department of Child Services and

Bureau of Motor Vehicles in accordance with Indiana law.

According to Indiana State Code, Habitual Absence under I.C. 20-33-2-25 states, “Superintendent or an attendance officer having

jurisdiction shall report a child who is habitually absent from school in violation of this chapter to an intake officer of the juvenile

court or the department of child services. The intake officer or the department of child services shall proceed in accord with IC

31-30- through IC 30-40.”

FAMILY VACATIONS

When students miss school for several consecutive days, it creates a hardship on them as well as the

teacher and the parents, too. Since parents receive the school calendar in February preceding the

school year, it is expected that parents will do everything possible to avoid planning family vacations

during school time. Therefore, we discourage family vacations during the school year. However,

if a student is to miss classes, for this reason, he is responsible for completing homework and taking

any quizzes/tests designated by the teacher(s). These days will count as unexcused absences.

These absences will still fall under the limit of seven occurrences per semester and/or ten occurrences

per year.

Teacher(s) may choose to have the student complete the work after the absence. Arrangements may

be made by contacting the student’s teacher(s) several weeks in advance. Work missed must be made

up in the time allowed by the teacher(s). It is completely the student’s and family’s responsibility to

contact teachers for “make-up work” arrangements and to implement those arrangements. However,

the athletic department is subject to IHSAA rules and guidelines pertaining to practice and

contests.

MAKE-UP WORK POLICY

Students will be allowed to make up work within a reasonable length of time. A reasonable length of

time will be one (1) additional day of make-up time for each day absent. Students should not expect

teachers to delay tests, or allow them extra time simply because they missed a day of school just

before the test. Consideration will be given to students missing several days in a row or those

obviously too ill to prepare for school. For normal three-day illnesses, all work must be made up

within five (5) class days after returning to school. If a student receives an Incomplete (I) grade on his

report card, the work must be completed within ten (10) class days after returning to school.

Teachers will assist students in making up work. However, it is the student’s responsibility to

determine what work has been missed and to see that it is made up. When a student has obviously

delayed or put off work, the teacher is no longer technically obligated to assist the student in making

up the work and a grade of “0” will be given for the work not made up. Students are not permitted to

miss regularly scheduled classes in order to make up work.

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TARDINESS

Students are considered tardy after the 8:15 bell. The prompt arrival of students prepares them for

success the entire day. It is the duty of a parent or guardian, and state law, for children to be in school

and on time. When a student is tardy to school, he or she shall report to the front desk to obtain a

pass before being admitted to class. Excessive tardiness for school arrival will result in a phone call

home by an administrator to determine the cause and any follow-up action that is needed.

PENALTIES FOR TARDIES

1. Third- tardy – One (1) lunch detention. Parental contact by an

administrator.

2. Sixth tardy – One (1) after school detention for 45 minutes. Parental

contact by an administrator

3. Ninth to Twelfth tardy – After school detention for 45 minutes for each additional tardy.

Parental contact by an administrator.

4. Anything above twelve tardies will result in Saturday school given by the Principal.

All tardies reset each quarter.

TRUANCY

Truancy is an absence without the knowledge and consent of parents and/or school staff. This

includes leaving school without permission before the end of the school day or staying out of

scheduled classes or activities without permission. Such action will not be tolerated.

According to IC 20-20-8-8 habitual truancy includes students absent ten (10) days or more from school

within a school year without being excused or without being absent under a parental request filed with

the school. Chronic absenteeism includes students absent from school for ten percent (10 percent) or

more of a school year for any reason. At the High School level, this includes each class period.

COMMUNICATION AND PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICIES

BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES OF COMMUNICATION

Matthew 18 Principle

The Administration believes that Christians should live in harmony with one another and give a clear

testimony of love and patience to those outside the community of believers. It is the intention of this

policy to give a procedure by which school personnel follow Scriptural principles in handling

complaints, concerns, and other interpersonal conflicts at Greenwood Christian Academy.

Scripture outlines clear guidelines for Christians to follow in the event that one party has offended or

been offended by another. Matthew 18 and Galatians 6 give clear instructions as to the process that

needs to be followed in such situations. Clearly, this policy must be firmly built upon God’s pattern

for grievance resolution.

Grievance Procedures

In the event that a GCA employee, parent, or student has a complaint pertaining to school policy or

action of a school employee, the party with the grievance should follow the steps of this policy with the

goal being the God-honoring resolution of the issue at hand. The steps to be followed in sequential

order are as follows:

1. Personal soul-searching, bringing personal motivations and interests in line with God’s perfect

will. (Galatians 6:1)

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2. A one-on-one personal conversation of the parties involved in the issue at hand. (Matthew

18:15)

3. If the matter is still unresolved, a witness or two may be brought into the confrontation

process. This witness could be a spouse, a teacher, a student, or another party interested in

helping to resolve the issue at hand.

4. If the issue is still unresolved in matters pertaining directly to the ministry of the school, then

they are to take their case to the appropriate principal.

5. If the issue remains unresolved, it is to be taken to the school Superintendent.

PARENT/TEACHER COMMUNICATION

GCA believes it is critical for the school and the home to work together. Even as God communicates

with us through His Word and we communicate with Him through prayer, communication is

fundamental to the effectiveness of education. Parents should feel free to call or email the teachers

when they have a question or an issue that needs to be resolved. Teachers will use Behavior Reports,

email, and the telephone in communicating issues pertaining to students and will respond to your

communication within 24 hours of receiving your correspondence.

In order to promote effective communication and understanding, parents are asked to cooperate with

the following guidelines:

1. Parents will have the opportunity to schedule parent/teacher conference(s) with their child’s

teacher (s) at the end of the first nine-week grading period.

2. Teachers will also use letters, phone calls, emails, and regular progress reports as needed to

communicate with parents.

3. It is important that each parent schedule a conference with a teacher whenever a need or

concern is evident. Parents should not feel limited to the personal conference. Many needs can

be met through a simple conference between parents and teachers. Concerns need to be

shared first between the parent and the teacher. The administration is interested in all areas

concerning students and the school and will be available for parent-teacher conferences.

4. Please do not attempt to discuss a concern with a teacher either while they are

welcoming the students in the morning or dismissing them in the afternoon or during

carpool. The teacher needs to be focused on their students at this time.

5. Some teachers and staff have been gracious to give out the cell phone numbers. Please be

respectful of our teachers and staff and do not call teachers during the school day for messages

or after hours at home.

SERVE

GCA provides a framework in which parents, teachers, and staff may work together for the best

interest of the student in developing spiritual, academic, social, emotional, and physical growth.

SERVE is a volunteer program led by the GCA Events and Volunteer Coordinator and parent

representatives in P-12. This format gives parents the opportunity to volunteer and serve the GCA

family in a plethora of ways. More information can be found on the website and through the

Development Department. This is a good way for our school families to get acquainted and contribute

to the GCA program.

A strong volunteer force is crucial in controlling school costs and meeting the needs of the students. It

is hoped that at least one member from each family will volunteer in one or more capacities during the

year. The SERVE committee has a detailed list of the volunteer opportunities available in the school.

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PARENT VOLUNTEERS

Any person volunteering in any capacity or wishing to go on a field trip MUST have a background

check completed and it MUST be returned to GCA in advance of any volunteering in the classroom, a

field trip, or activity. If the volunteer does not have a background check on file with the school, they

will not be permitted to participate. A new background check will need to be done every school year.

A parent is responsible for paying the fee for the background check.

PARENT RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

GCA’s goal is to keep the school community fully informed about the educational programs, the

strengths and needs of the school, and the services which are available to families and students. An

informed school community is essential for complete cooperation and support.

Core Components

1. GCA believes that:

a) Students are gifts from the Lord and entrusted to their parents, not to the State, nor to GCA.

b) Parents are responsible for the conduct of their children.

c) GCA derives its educational authority from parents and stands in “loco parentis” during the

school day.

2. GCA encourages parental participation in as many programs and activities as possible by:

a) Attending/participating in special programs and activities of the school.

b) Aiding teachers on field trips, etc.

3. GCA provides a Dean of Students and Family Care to encourage this relationship between school

and family. Families can contact the Dean with any concerns using help@gcak12.org or his school

email address.

4. GCA makes student files open to the person who has legal responsibility for the student.

5. GCA shall undertake special ministry opportunities of prayer and assistance in the areas of:

a) Bereavement.

b) Class letters to ill students.

c) Flowers and cards for those in the hospital.

d) Other areas as deemed appropriate by the Administration.

MEDICAL PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

CONTROLLED DRUGS:

Parents assume responsibility for sending controlled substances (i.e. Ritalin, certain pain medications)

to school with their children; however, these drugs may not be sent home with the student by school

personnel. A parent or guardian is required to pick up all medication in person.

Note: In accordance with the law, the school will not send home any medication that it has been given to

administer during school hours or school functions with any student in grade 8 or below. These

medications will only be released to the student’s parent or to an individual at least eighteen (18) years

old who has been designated in writing by the student’s parent to receive the medication. Students in

grades 9-12 need a parent’s written permission for the student to take the medication home.

EMERGENCY MEDICATIONS (INHALERS, EPI-PENS)

Students in grades 5-12, who require the immediate availability of medication such as Inhalers and

Epi-Pens, may be allowed to keep such medications with them with the written permission from the

prescribing physician. For students with severe asthma, the school nurse will need an Asthma

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Treatment Plan filled out by the physician. For students with allergies that require an Epi-Pen, the

school nurse will need a Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan on file.

All parents/guardians of students carrying such medications assume responsibility for assuring that

backup medication is provided to the School Nurse and that the carried medication is neither expired

nor empty.

If your student needs to take medication from school on field trips, please make the nurse or

teacher aware of that prior to the field trip. All medication will be dispensed by a school official.

FIRST AID PROCEDURES

The following process shall be used for first aid procedures:

1. First aid treatment will be administered to stop the bleeding, restore breathing, or to prevent

shock.

2. In the event that medical care is necessary, parents shall be immediately notified. A Medical

Release Form including doctor and insurance information will be filled out for each student and

shall be kept on file, in case the parents cannot be reached and emergency medical care is

needed.

3. A representative of the school faculty/staff shall stay with the student until the parent

assumes responsibility. If the situation warrants, a local ambulance shall be called.

ILLNESS

Students with suspected contagious conditions (flu, strep throat, pink eye, ringworm, rashes, etc.)

may be sent home, even if they do not have a fever at the time, and may require a written excuse from

the doctor in order to return to school.

Students with elevated temperature (100.5 or more) or symptoms of illness must be picked up by a

parent/guardian as soon as possible.  In addition, students must be fever-free (without the use of

fever-reducing medicine) for a period of 24 hours before being allowed to return to school. Students

with active vomiting and/or diarrhea will need to be free of those symptoms for 24 hours before

returning to school. Students with undiagnosed and/or untreated skin rashes or other potentially

contagious conditions are not to attend school until the condition is treated (as documented by a

physician).

Returning to School after an Illness

1. Students must be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

2. Students must be vomiting/diarrhea-free for 24 hours.

3. Students must be well enough to have a successful day of learning.

IMMUNIZATION POLICY

TITLE 410 IAC 1-1-1

Immunization Requirements:

For those diseases listed in IS 20-8.17 (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough, Poliomyelitis, Measles,

Mumps, Rubella, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Meningitis), the adequately immunizing doses and the

child's age for administering each vaccine shall be those recommended in the current Report of the

Committee on Infectious Diseases of the American Academy of Pediatrics (“Red Book”) or those currently

recommended by the United States Public Health Service Advisory Committee on Immunization

Practices.

Religious Objection (20-8.1-7-2):

Except as otherwise provided, a student may not be required to undergo any testing,

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examination, or treatment required under this chapter when the student’s parents object on

religious grounds. A religious objection does not exempt a student from any testing,

examination, immunization, or treatment required under this chapter unless the objection is:

1. Made in writing

2. Signed by the student’s parent

3. Delivered to the school office every year

Exception for Child’s Health (20-8.7-2.5):

If any physician certifies that a particular immunization required by this chapter is or may be

detrimental to the student’s health, the requirements of this chapter for that particular

immunization is inapplicable for that student until it is found no longer detrimental to the

child’s health. As added by Acts 1976, P.L. 103, SEC.2.

Immunizations Required (IC.20-8.1-7-9.5):

1. Every student residing in Indiana who enters K-4 thru grade 5 shall be immunized against

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and

Varicella (or show proof of the disease-chicken pox).

2. Every 6th-grade student residing in Indiana shall be immunized against Diphtheria, Tetanus,

Pertussis, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella (or show

proof of the disease-chicken pox), and receive a Tdap and Meningococcal Vaccine.

3. Every student residing in Indiana who enters grades 7 thru 12 shall be immunized against the

above diseases as well. Those students entering grade 12 will require a second Meningococcal

Vaccine unless they received the first dose on or after their 16th birthday.

Enforcement through IC 20-8.1-7-10.1 (c) (1)

When a student enrolls for the first time in a school corporation, the parents shall furnish to the

governing body of that corporation an adequately documented statement of the student’s

immunizations which shall show that the student has received at least the minimum number of

doses for his age as recommended by the official bodies named in Section 1 [410 IAC 1-1-1].

A student may not be permitted to attend school beyond 10 days after the start of school without

furnishing this written statement unless:

1. the school gives the parents of the student a waiver

2. Or the local health department or a physician determines that the student’s immunization

schedule has been delayed due to extreme circumstances and that the required immunizations

will not be completed before the first day of school.

The waiver referred to in subdivision (1) may not be granted for a period that exceeds twenty (20)

days. If subdivision (2) applies, the parent of the student shall furnish a written statement and a

time schedule, approved by a physician or the local health department for the completion of the

remainder of the immunizations.

Record of Examination furnished upon Student Transfer (20-8.17-9):

1. GCA shall keep an immunization record on each of its students. These records shall be kept

uniformly, according to procedures prescribed by the State Department of Health.

2. When a student transfers to another school, GCA will provide his record to the new school

within twenty (20) days after the transfer.

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MEDICAL APPOINTMENT

If it is absolutely necessary for a student to leave school for a medical appointment, a written request

in advance and/or a phone call to the office or front desk is requested. At the time of pick up, the

student will be called from class by the front desk. No student should leave class without notification

from school personnel. No student will be released to anyone other than those authorized by parents

or guardians. Parents will need to sign the student out unless the student is driving himself. A signed

doctor’s slip will be required in order for the student to receive a “certified medical absence.”

MEDICAL EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

At the beginning of each school year, all parents are required to fill out an EMERGENCY MEDICAL

RELEASE AND FIELD TRIP form. In case of serious illness or injury, this information may be used

before consultation with the family, if deemed necessary.

In the case of minor illness, the student will be sent to the nurse’s office, where he shall be cared for.

In case of more serious illness, the family will be contacted by phone, and the parents will be asked to

come to the school to pick up the ill student. In no case will a student (driving herself/himself) be

allowed to return home unless there is permission from a parent.

MEDICATION POLICIES FOR PRESCRIBED AND NON-PRESCRIBED DRUGS

Greenwood Christian Academy complies with Indiana State Codes and State Law Health policies as

related to education.

Medications must be brought from home in the original container, package, or prescription bottle. The

“Authorization for Medication in School” form must be filed with the school BEFORE the student will

be allowed to take any medications.

Medications MUST be in the original container, package, or prescription bottle. We cannot

accept medication in baggies.

1. Non-Prescription Medications (OTC) can be dispensed by the school nurse or office personnel

with written permission from the parent or legal guardian. This includes Tylenol, Ibuprofen,

cold medicine, etc. Over the counter medications and non-prescription medications need to be

FDA approved. Herbal medications will be dispensed with written permission, in accordance

with the parent's wishes, and/or the instructions provided on the bottle, and with the parent's

written acknowledgment that, not being FDA approved, the school and individual dispensing

the herb(s) do not accept responsibility for the outcome of the student. In the case of adding

an OTC medication during the school year, a parent's note must accompany each medication.

2. Prescription Medications can be dispensed by the school nurse or office personnel with

written permission from the parent or legal guardian. All medications prescribed by the

physician are to be brought to the nurse in the original prescription bottle, with the label

clearly attached, and with a note from the parent or guardian. When no longer needed the

medication will be returned to the parents or destroyed. Written permission must also be given

for students in grades 6 – 12 to carry medication home.

3. No student is at any time to give or sell another student medication. If a student does give or

sell medication to another student, all privileges to take any medication at school on his own

will be forfeited plus further disciplinary action shall be taken.

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CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE POLICIES

“If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the

truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the

blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” I John 1:6&7

GCA Dress Code

Dress Code Principles

#1 Parents are the authority over their children. (Exodus 12, Colossians 3, Ephesians 6)

#2 GCA must do its best to have a biblical, safe, and thriving school community that avoids exposing

students to anything that might cause them to sin. (1 Cor 8, Luke 17; Philippians 4)

#3 GCA will do its best to balance Principle #1 and Principle #2.

Teachers may alert the administration of any dress code concerns. The administration reserves the

right to interpret all dress code policies and make final decisions regarding student attire. The

ultimate goal of this policy is to create a school atmosphere that both honors the Lord and provides an

excellent atmosphere for learning.

Dress Code Education

Part of each student’s education in Bible classes will be a discussion on what is appropriate to wear

from a biblical standpoint, focusing on the responsibility of both genders to discipline themselves

when it comes to peer influence, negative influences, and lustful thoughts or actions. This discipline

will be necessary outside the walls of GCA, so parents and staff must work together to teach students

how to handle themselves in the world.

Dress Code Guidelines

Student appearance should be: ARM

1) Appropriate (safe; no promotion of sinful, evil, dark, illegal, or negative ideas)

2) Respectful (honoring to the Christian faith and conducive to a Christian learning environment)

3) Modest (avoiding undue attention and tight-fitting clothing, no undergarments, stomach, or

cleavage showing, no spaghetti or strapless tops)

FAQ’s

1. Are athletic shorts and sweatpants permitted? YES, as long as the ARM guidelines are

followed.

2. Are leggings/yoga pants permitted? YES, as long as a top/shirt is worn that reaches

mid-thigh.

3. Can boys wear earrings or have body piercings? No

4. Can girls have body piercings other than ears? No

5. Can jeans have holes and frays? Yes, as long as the ARM guidelines are followed.

Dress Code Applied

Here are some sample scenarios to help you understand how we will approach how we will make

decisions under the dress code.

Example 1: Mia can’t decide whether or not to dye her hair lime green and spike it into a

mohawk or to wear her new full-size purple sombrero to school. She realizes that both would

be considered inappropriate (distracting in class). Instead, she decides to dye it gray and

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spike it. ALL HAIR SHOULD BE NEAT AND NATURAL LOOKING.

Example 2: Nicole wants to wear her new flip-flops to school. But she’s only in 2nd grade

and has recess twice a day; it would be inappropriate to try to climb the slide ladder or play

soccer in them. She decides to wait until 6th grade to wear them when she no longer has a

recess.

Example 3: Evander is really into the 80s, especially the Bowflex, spandex (leggings), and

short shorts. He wants to show off his sculpted body but can’t decide which to wear on the

first day of school. Spandex/leggings are form-fitting and leave little to the imagination; short

shorts don’t even require imagination. He decides that either would be disrespectful to people

who would have to look at him and immodest. Instead, he decides to wear athletic shorts that

reach at least mid-thigh.

Example 4: Grace is obsessed with music. She gets a new Guns ‘n’ Roses shirt and wants to

wear it on the first day of school. It has 5 skulls hanging on a cross and says Appetite for

Destruction. She reads the new dress code guidelines and decides that the visual message of

the shirt is not really respectful to her Christian faith and might inappropriately scare the

elementary kids. She opts instead to wear her new Pink Floyd shirt. The shirt is appropriate

visually because it is just a prism with a beam of light going through it.

Example 5: Danielle gets some new back-to-school jeans that have holes in them. She reads

the dress code guidelines and realizes that she shouldn’t wear the ones with the big hole up on

her thigh that shows her pockets because it leads everyone’s eyes into her personal space.

That would be immodest, inappropriate, and disrespectful; 3 for 3! Instead, she decides to

wear a pair that has holes in the knees. Nothing immodest, inappropriate, or disrespectful

there!

NOTE: If a student is found to be in inappropriate dress, they will be required to sit out of class until

appropriate clothing can be brought to the school.

DISCIPLINE POLICY

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is

good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone”

(Titus 3: 1-2, NIV).

The student has a right to develop his/her abilities to the fullest, to feel safe, to be respected as an

individual, to expect rules to be reasonable and consistently applied, and to receive the benefits of all

school services. The student is responsible for knowing and complying with school rules, for

respecting and submitting to the authority of the school staff, and for being diligent in his/her studies.

The basic purpose of discipline is to help the student benefit from the learning activities presented by

the school. The goal of GCA shall be for the student to effectively discipline himself/herself so as to

reach his/her potential. Every effort shall be made to influence the student through example, prayer,

scripture, and counseling.

Your conduct away from school is just as important as your conduct while at school. Remember

that you are a representative of GCA both on and off-campus. As a GCA student, you are accountable

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to the school’s behavior policies even when off-campus. Inappropriate behavior, on or off-campus, is

subject to the same consequences.

When a matter requires discipline, the following will occur:

● The problem will be discussed with the student by the teacher, staff, or administrator who

observed the offense.

● The next step may require that the teacher inform the Principal or Dean of the problem, and

the Principal/Dean will then assume a key role in the process.

● An appropriate plan for any discipline and restoration will be worked out. This could include

requiring counseling, mentoring by a youth leader, home accountability, detention, in-school or

out-of-school suspension, or extracurricular ineligibility, probation, and in some extreme

cases, expulsion.

● Based upon the offense, parents will be contacted to inform them of the action taken. If there is

disagreement with the disciplinary action, the Appeals Procedure printed in this document

must be followed.

Factors such as previous offenses, responses to previous discipline, confession versus “being caught”

are all taken into consideration when deciding on disciplinary action. The goal is to see a heart

changed by an encounter with the Word of God ministered by the people of God.

RESTORATION POLICY

Greenwood Christian Academy will provide a restoration plan for students as an integral part of any

disciplinary process. The purpose of the restoration plan is to restore the student back to his or her

place in the GCA community, whether the disciplinary offense is minor or major.

In minor offenses, the restoration plan may simply include counsel, prayer, encouragement, and

restitution when appropriate. In major offenses, (suspensions or expulsions) the restoration plan

should be a more formal written plan and include aspects that help the students.

The following is the expected conduct of students and staff at Greenwood Christian Academy. These

principles apply to conduct on school premises, property, and buses. It also applies at any time, to

conduct off school premises that affect students, staff, or the Christian testimony of the school and to

conduct at all school activities regardless of location. As the Bible is the foundation of all academic

courses at GCA, the same is the standard for student and staff behavior. For this reason, the

following principles are adopted for students and staff (James 1:22; I John 1:6,7; 2Cor. 3:2,3).

1. We will pattern our conduct after that of the Lord Jesus.

(I Peter 2:21; I John 2:16)

2. We will regard our physical bodies as temples of God, dedicated to Him.

(1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 1 Peter 2:5)

3. We will be careful to make the best use of the time available

(Colossians. 4:5; Ephesians. 5:15; Matthew 12:36; Philemon 2:3&4)

4. We will consider others first, rather than ourselves

(Romans 14:13&21; I Corinthians. 8:8-13; Romans 15:1; Philemon 2:3&4)

5. We will avoid deliberate confrontation with temptation.

(James 1:14, Philemon. 2:5; 4:8)

6. We will engage only in activities that are of positive benefit.

(I Corinthians.10:23; I Thessalonians. 5:21)

7. We will avoid activities that are offensive to others.

(I Corinthians. 10: 31-33)

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8. We will do only those things which we know honor Christ.

(Colossians. 3:17; Romans 14:23)

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT

As parents and legal guardians, we are in support of GCA’s educational philosophy, objectives, and

standards of conduct. We will cooperate with the teachers in a spirit of partnership in the training of

our child(ren).

● We will pray for the school and the faculty/staff and for our child(ren)’s spiritual and

educational development.

● We will maintain active fellowship in a Bible-believing church.

● We will practice the “Matthew 18 principle” when resolving conflicts, remembering that God’s

Word instructs us to first go to the person with whom we have a disagreement.

● We will not post or speak ill of or represent the school in any disparaging way to individuals or

on any type of social media. When we have concerns about a teacher or administration, we will

follow the appropriate procedures in addressing the concern.

● We will attend parent/teacher conferences when requested to do so, as well as required parent

orientations.

● We will monitor our child(ren)’s grades and attendance on a regular basis, encouraging our

child(ren) to strive for excellence in learning the school’s curriculum.

● We will monitor our child(ren)’s assignment and short- and long-term projects on a regular

basis. We will not complete work for them, circumventing the learning process.

● We will pick up our child(ren) from school on time and when requested to do so by

the administration or school nurse. We will attend all required parental orientations.

● We have read and understood the financial information and pledge to fulfill our responsibilities

in a timely manner.

● We understand that tuition rates do not cover the cost of operating the school and thus our

participation is needed through other ways such as regular prayer efforts, volunteer

involvement, and fundraisers.

● We understand that if at any time during the education of our child(ren), we can no longer

work with the school in a spirit of unity, and all reasonable avenues of reconciliation are

exhausted, we will withdraw our child (ren) from Greenwood Christian Academy.

● We understand that willful disobedience by us or our child(ren) of the principles and guidelines

of the code of conduct and handbook may result in dismissal from Greenwood Christian

Academy.

● We agree to support the student handbook regardless of our own agreement with any given

principle.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The first line of responsibility for discipline in the school rests with the classroom teacher, who is

expected to motivate the student and plan classes so as to minimize behavioral problems. Classroom

teachers shall work closely with the dean of students, principal, and parents to promote desirable

student conduct. When disciplinary action is required to ensure desirable student conduct, the

teacher, principal, parent, and student will work together in order to bring about desirable behavior.

STUDENT CORRECTION AND DISCIPLINE

“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of

righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11

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Because we exist as an extension of the Christian home, GCA believes that working with the parents is

very important in helping children develop Christ-like qualities. We make a daily effort to instill

Christ-likeness through prayer and Bible teachings.

Greenwood Christian Academy school discipline is guided by the broad concepts of:

Choices => Conflict => Confession => Forgiveness => Consequence => Restoration

Discipline should not be confused with punishment. The goal of discipline is self-controlled behavior,

behavior that is acceptable and good for the school community. Discipline trains a student how to act

justly and morally. It makes sense and is applicable to unacceptable behavior. Restorative discipline

can exhibit grace and mercy at times. Discipline allows a student to evaluate the action and correct

the behavior in the future. It gives the student the ability to make amends for the wrong choices. It

puts him in charge of his actions.

If a student exhibits an attitude or behavior that is not in harmony with the principles in this code,

one or a combination of the following approaches may be utilized as the situation warrants:

1. Prayer with the student

2. Counseling, utilizing principles from the Bible

3. Conference with Teacher

4. Conference with Dean/ Administration

5. Parent notification/conference

6. Biblical Counseling and restoration

7. Removal of privileges

8. Lunch detention

9. Detention (after school)

10. Removal from class for a period of time

11. Community service to the school

12. Saturday School with service to GCA

13. In-school suspension

14. Out of School Suspension

15. Expulsion

16. Other appropriate actions at the administration's discretion.

DISCIPLINE LEVELS

It is imperative to keep the following points in mind as the remainder of GCA’s Discipline Policy is

read:

1. To promote and maintain consistency, most discipline matters at GCA have been organized

into five general levels.

2. Each level includes the usual progression in the steps of discipline. A level One infraction will

begin earlier in the progression than a level two or three. A level Four infraction may include

multiple consequences on the discipline progression chart.

3. Depending upon the severity of the infraction/violation, disciplinary measures may be handled

on a case-by-case basis AND MAY NOT FOLLOW THE USUAL PROGRESSION.

LEVEL ONE “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to

do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle

toward everyone” (Titus 3: 1-2, NIV).

All of these items fall under normal classroom discipline and should be addressed immediately by the

classroom teacher within appropriate classroom consequences that do not include administration

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unless the occurrences become habitual. These include failure to follow the teacher’s classroom

procedures, such as late work, not being prepared for class, throwing things, disruption of class, etc.

The classroom consequence should fit the infraction.

LEVEL TWO The following is a list of inappropriate behaviors or attitudes that would require

correction accompanied by a warning and/or some type of disciplinary action at the discretion of the

teacher and or principal. This list is not meant to be all-inclusive.

o Failure to follow School Policies and Procedures

o Disorder in the Lunchroom

o Dress Code Violation: Any violation of the school appointed dress code as outlined in the Student

Handbook

o Horseplay: One or more students making non-malicious physical contact with another student

that risks the safety of others.

o Excessive Tardiness

o Inappropriate Language; spoken or written

o Interfering with other people's property without permission

o Disrespect: An occurrence where a student regards or treats an authority figure with contempt

or rudeness

o Unauthorized Use of Electronic Devices

o Public Display of Affection “PDA”

o Property Misuse: using a textbook or school property in a manner other than its intended use

o On-campus driving violation

LEVEL THREE Any violation of these or similar offenses may result in detentions, Saturday School or

suspension from school. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list.

o Insubordination: Willful and deliberate defiance of authority

o Acts of rebellion against school norms

o Personal Dishonesty Lying or intentionally withholding facts

o Academic Dishonesty; cheating or plagiarism

o Misuse of Technology

o Physical Aggression of any Kind

LEVEL FOUR Any violation of these or similar offenses may result in Saturday School or suspension

(ISS or OSS) from school. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list

o Gross Profanity, Obscene Gestures

o Stealing or borrowing items without permission

o Destruction or defacing (vandalism) of school property or any vehicle while on school property

o Inappropriate social media use which interferes with the school day or students

o Fighting or threatening; assault

o Deliberate Truancy

o Aiding or abetting any of the above

o Failure to follow through on any consequences

LEVEL FIVE Any violation of these or similar offenses occurring at any time (24 hrs. a day, 7 days a

week), while the student is enrolled at GCA, may result in immediate expulsion from school. This is

not intended to be an all-inclusive list.

1. Use or possession of a weapon or look-alike weapon

2. Bullying and/or intimidation (in person or online)

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3. Sexual misconduct including “sexting”

4. Sexual Harassment (verbal or physical)

5. Immoral behavior

6. Forgery

7. Extortion

8. Setting fires or false alarms

9. Being in possession of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vapes`, or drug paraphernalia

10. Any type of threat of violence toward individuals or the school either in person,

electronically, or on social media, regardless of intent.

*SUBSEQUENT OCCURRENCES of any infraction may result in BEHAVIORAL PROBATION as well

as expulsion from GCA.

STANDARD OF CONDUCT

GCA was founded upon the conviction that young people should be able to gain an excellent academic

education in an environment conducive to spiritual growth. The school holds that the Bible is the sole

authority on all spiritual matters and that spiritual growth begins with the initial act of saving faith

and continues throughout life.

As a part of its basic Philosophy of Education, GCA recognizes that the home is primarily responsible

for the development of Christian character and conscience in the child. Both the church and the

school are responsible for building on this foundation.

In order to build on this foundational set of partnerships (home, church, and school), GCA must

provide an environment conducive to the spiritual growth and development of young people who are

not yet mature Christians. We believe a Standard of Conduct is necessary to provide such an

environment. (I Corinthians 8:9, 12-13; 10:32)

In light of these principles, GCA has adopted the following standards.

● The school expects each student to maintain Christian standards of respect, integrity,

compassion, and excellence.

● The school requires each student to refrain from the following, including but not limited to:

profanity and indecent language (Eph. 5:4), racist taunting or racial slurs (Eph. 5:4), gambling

(II Thess. 3:10; I Tim. 5:8, 6:9-10), cheating (Prov. 20:23), stealing (Mark 10:19; Eph. 4:28); the

use of any type of tobacco, including vaping and e-cigs, drugs, alcohol (I Cor. 6:19-20; Eph.

5:18), or pornographic materials (I Cor. 6:18; II Tim. 2:22), participation in unlawful (Romans

13:1), violent (I Tim. 3:3; Titus 1:7), or destructive acts; involvement in sexual immorality (I

Thess. 4:3-7); involvement in homosexuality (Romans 1:26-28; I Cor. 6:9; I Tim. 1:10),

including professing or practicing homosexuality, bisexuality, or other gender identity

associations apart from those established in the Bible as expressed in GCA’s Statement of

Faith.

● Students must refrain from condoning, supporting, or otherwise promoting any of the

above-listed practices.

Students are expected to abide by these standards throughout their enrollment at Greenwood

Christian Academy. This includes both in-term and out-of-term times — at school, home, on cell

phones or computers, on social media, or any other place. Students found to be out of harmony with

the GCA ideals may be asked to withdraw whenever the general welfare of the student body makes it

appropriate.

The partnership between the family, the church, and the school contains many overlapping areas. It

should be understood that enrolling at GCA creates a joint agreement between the school, the parent,

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and the student. Any student or parent who takes the position that the “off-campus” life of the

student is “none of the school's business” is out of step with GCA’s Philosophy of Education. Our

desire is not to displace parental authority or responsibility, but to cooperate in maintaining a

Christian testimony for our school and a safe learning environment.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY AND GUIDELINES

Drug abuse is a serious problem in today’s society, and Christian schools are not immune to this

problem. It is statistically predictable and is within our experience, that some students have used

alcohol and have experimented with drugs or may do so during their junior high and high school

years. Indiana Code 20-34-3 sets health measures to be governed by school officials. Most

specifically, Indiana Code 20-34-3-9 establishes the responsibility of schools to assist children found

to be ill or in need of treatment.

Greenwood Christian Academy recognizes the hardship created by drugs, smoking, vaping, and

alcohol at the individual, school, and community levels. In doing so, our goal is to provide a drug,

cigarette, vape, and alcohol-free environment, safe for student growth and learning.

● Total abstinence and absence (i.e. use or possession) from tobacco, vapes, marijuana, any

controlled substance, alcoholic beverages, and non-prescribed use of drugs is expected of all

students at all times (i.e., twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week). (1

Corinthians 6: 19-20; 1 Corinthians 8:9)

● The Administration believes that any non-medical involvement (i.e., consumption,

procurement, or provision) with controlled substances or materials generally acknowledged as

being harmful to an individual’s physical, spiritual, or psychological health is inconsistent with

the Christian lifestyle.

● Although the Scriptures do not speak directly to the problem of drug abuse, they do instruct

individuals in the maintenance of healthy lifestyles and avoidance of harmful indulgences and

excesses.

● Furthermore, since drug involvement is specifically defined and prohibited under Indiana and

Federal criminal laws, its avoidance is implied by the Biblical injunction to be subject to the

governmental authorities.

● As a matter of policy, GCA will investigate fully any incident suggesting drug involvement on

the part of students, faculty, or staff. Confirmation of drug abuse as defined above will be

reported to the appropriate legal authorities and will subject the individual(s) involved to an

immediate disciplinary review by the school.

● In order to try and help ensure the safety of our students, students can be tested at any time

based on reasonable suspicion. Reasonable suspicion means a suspicion based on specific

personal observations of a student and reasonable inferences drawn from those observations in

the light of experience. Information provided by a reliable source, if based on personal

first-hand knowledge, shall constitute reasonable suspicion.

● While GCA recognizes the need for compassionate treatment of those involved in any manner

with drug or alcohol-related issues (including addiction), we also uphold the policy of not using

drugs or alcohol at any time. This especially includes while on campus or at any off-campus

GCA event.

● In accordance with this, we will maintain a NO TOLERANCE policy toward drug and alcohol

use. The GCA school administration has approved the use of drug dogs as a deterrent to the

use of drugs and alcohol.

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DISCIPLINARY ACTION for Use and/or Possession First Offense:

● When a student is found for the first time, in possession of, under the influence of, using

drugs, cigarettes, vapes, alcohol, or paraphernalia on the way to or from school, before, during,

or after school or a school-sponsored event, the unauthorized substance or paraphernalia will

be taken away from the student. The police may be contacted whenever any individual is

found in possession of illegal substances or is in violation of the law. Parents will be contacted

to take the student home. If emergency services are needed, such services will be contacted at

the expense of the student and their family.

● Students who are tested based on reasonable suspicion of drug use will be addressed under

the following discipline code: First-time offenders may at the discretion of the principal be

permitted to pursue the following course of action:

1. The parent(s) and the student accept FIVE TO TEN DAY OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION.

Student-Athletes will abide by IHSAA rules for drug use and playing time.

2. The parent(s) and the student agree to seek drug/alcohol counseling for the student and to

provide documented proof the student did attend such counseling for no less than six

sessions. The cost of such counseling will be the responsibility of the student and his/her

family.

3. The parent(s) and student agree to provide the school with verified proof the student is

drug-free upon his/her return to school. The cost of such verification will be the

responsibility of the student and his/her family.

4. The school is bound by law, as are the individuals and families, and it will act in

compliance with the law when circumstances indicate certain actions are necessary.

Note: Should a family refuse professional treatment or counseling (including random drug/alcohol

testing) the school may expel the student from Greenwood Christian Academy.

Disciplinary Action for Use and/or Possession of Subsequent Offenses:

● Any repeated violation of the school's drug/alcohol policy will result in an automatic

expulsion from Greenwood Christian Academy.

Search and Seizure of Personal Property

● Inspection of personal property including (but not limited to) lockers and their contents,

clothing pockets, shoes, backpacks and cars may be conducted by the Principal, Dean of

Students, or their designee for any reason, at any time, without notice and without student or

parent consent.

● This includes the use of drug dogs.

Trafficking/Buying/Selling

● If a student is found to be trafficking, buying, giving away, offering to trade, or selling

alcohol/tobacco/drugs (or anything passed off as drugs/alcohol) on the way to or from school,

at school, before, during, or after a school-sponsored event, the student will be expelled from

GCA immediately. The parents will be notified and the police may be contacted.

● While we recognize the need for compassion, it is our goal and duty to keep all of our students

safe and in a drug/alcohol-free environment. We will uphold and maintain a NO TOLERANCE

policy toward drug and alcohol use.

EXPLANATION OF CONSEQUENCES: Depending on the age and grade of the student, some

consequences will differ.

1. Lunch Detention – The student is separated from his peers during lunch. The student shall be

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confined to a specific room during the normal lunch break. The student will be allowed to eat

or study. The student will not be allowed to talk.

2. Detention— 45 minutes after school.

3. Saturday School – Students are required to attend school on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 12

noon. During this time a student may be asked to complete service around the school building.

These hours will not count towards community service hours.

4. In-School Suspension-removal of the student from the classroom. All work assignments are to

be completed. During an in-school suspension, the student will remain in a designated area

for a period of time that the administration determines appropriate. The student is allowed to

do school work for credit, but teachers are not responsible to give instruction. However, the

student is responsible for the material given while they have been in School Suspension. A

student serving an in-school suspension may not participate or attend any extracurricular

school activities on the day(s) of the in-school suspension (including field trips, class parties,

athletics, or special events, which occur during the suspension period.)

5. Out of School Suspension - a student may be suspended from school with

parent-administration communication. Very specific changes in attitudes and actions will be

expected prior to re-admission. At re-admission, a parent-administration conference shall be

necessary prior to return to school.

o The student is allowed to do school work for credit, but teachers are not responsible to

give instruction. There is no academic penalty associated with a suspension for

behavior.

o Students are responsible for obtaining all missed assignments, completing all missed

work, submitting all completed work to teachers upon the day following the

suspension.

o Disciplinary probation is invoked when a student is suspended from school.

o During an out-of-school suspension, the student is not permitted in school, or to

participate in or attend any extracurricular activities on the day of the suspension.

Teachers are not responsible for giving instruction.

o Suspensions may vary depending on the offense.

o The student may return to school at the close of the suspension period.

o When a student is suspended, he or she may not participate or attend any

extracurricular school activities on the day(s) of the in-school suspension (including

field trips, class parties, athletics, or special events, which occur during the suspension

period.)

6. Expulsion- shall be recommended if it becomes apparent that the school will not be able to

meet the needs of the student or the student’s behavior is disrupting classroom instruction.

Expulsion may also be recommended for violations of major offenses, unresolved academic or

disciplinary probation, a blatant disregard for a Christian lifestyle, or failure to correct the

deficiencies specified in probationary admission. When expulsion is recommended, the date of

withdrawal will be set and the withdrawal procedures followed. The expulsion date may be

immediate.

BEHAVIORAL PROBATION POLICY

DEFINITION: Probation is invoked when a student has a serious problem. It gives the student an

opportunity to correct the problem. If the student does not improve to a satisfactory level, he shall be

dismissed and be asked to withdraw from GCA.

REASONS FOR PROBATION:

1. Disciplinary

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a) A rebellious spirit that is unchanged after much effort by the teachers

b) A continued negative attitude and a bad influence on other students

c) Continued deliberate disobedience

d) Committing a serious breach of conduct inside or outside the school that has an

adverse effect upon the school’s testimony

e) Failure of parents to comply with disciplinary procedures of the school

2. Invoking probation: this will be done by the administration with teacher feedback at the end of

each quarter.

3. The probation periods

a) Probation will last for the semester following the administration’s conference with the

parents and the student.

b) Student activities will be limited and all positions of trust and responsibility will be

relinquished during this time.

c) If the student has been on probation for two (2) consecutive semesters, the student will

need to withdraw or will be withdrawn from GCA.

4. Students will participate in Restorative Discipleship.

SUSPENSION POLICY (ISS or OSS)

A student may be suspended from school for a period of time because he or his parents are found to

be out of harmony with the rules and policies of the school. Decisions in these matters are the full

responsibility of the administration.

Suspension shall lead to expulsion if the student continues to be out of harmony with the rules and

policies of GCA. Because expulsion of a student is a serious matter, much consideration is given to all

circumstances before a student is expelled.

SUSPENSION PROCEDURES:

1. The administration has at all times the authority to suspend a student.

2. The length of suspension shall be one (1) to ten (10) days, as determined by the administration.

3. All classwork must be completed and turned in for ISS.

4. The student will not be permitted to receive credit on classwork given during the time of OSS

suspension.

5. The student will not be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities or athletic events

during the time of the OSS suspension.

6. The reasons which would give cause for suspension are as follows:

a. Continued deliberate disobedience/disrespect displayed.

b. A rebellious spirit is unchanged after much effort by the school staff.

c. A continued negative attitude and bad influence upon other students.

d. A serious breach of conduct inside or outside of the school has an adverse effect on the

image of GCA (as stated in the Student Handbook).

e. Failure of the student to comply with disciplinary action of the school.

EXPULSION POLICY

A student may be expelled from school for a serious breach of conduct and/or repeated problems with

behavior or academic performance. Recommendations for expulsion shall require approval of the

Superintendent.

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COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM (GRADES 9-12)

PHILOSOPHY AND PURPOSE

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s

grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10

Many public and private high schools now require community service or service-learning as a

component of a student’s high school education. Colleges and universities encourage and/or expect

incoming students to have some type of community service experience as part of their requirement for

admission. The goal of institutions implementing a service component in the curriculum is to

encourage a well-rounded student, a student who demonstrates commitment, leadership, and

initiative. Service to others, whether on the local, national, or global level, helps equip a student to

think critically about problems and issues faced by others. Developing a well-rounded, civic-minded,

responsible student who contributes to the needs of the community is an admirable goal.

While growing a student in civic responsibility in order to meet the needs of the community is a

commendable goal, our desire at Greenwood Christian Academy is to develop in our students a mind

for community service grounded in a Biblical worldview. A good starting point for addressing

community service from a Biblical worldview is Micah 6:8:“He has told you, O man, what is good; and

what does the LORD requires of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with

your God?” This verse addresses three important qualities of community service: “Do justice, love

kindness, and walk humbly with your God.” As we “do justice,” our goal is to help our students think

critically and biblically about how to fairly and with integrity address the problems and needs in our

community, our nation, and our world. In other words, how do we treat those in need with dignity

and respect? “Love kindness”: how do we show compassion and sympathy for those suffering and

for those less fortunate? The objective as we “love kindness” is to encourage students to demonstrate

compassion and sympathy for their fellow students as well as for those outside the walls of a home,

school, and church. To “walk humbly with your God” is to focus vertically on the Lord while practicing

justice and loving-kindness. The ultimate goal of Biblically-based community service is a changed

heart dependent on God for guidance, not just a civic-minded person.

Implementing a community service requirement for GCA students may have many benefits: developing

character, growing in leadership, and increasing in the initiative. While important, these virtues are

not the definitive goal. Our aspiration for requiring community service is that students become “doers

of the word.” James 1:22: “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”

When students perform community service by doing justice, loving kindness by humbly walking with

the Lord, and reflecting Christ to the community through thoughtful acts of service and mercy, Jesus’

words in Matthew 7:12 are practiced: "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to

them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

COMMUNITY SERVICE REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL

Students in high school grades will be required to serve twenty hours of community service each

academic year. The academic year will begin on June 1 and will end on May 31. However, all service

hours must be completed by May 15th of the current school year. Hours earned over the summer will

apply to the new academic year. No more than twenty hours will be recognized during an academic

year. To be credited with your service hours, the student must complete the Community Service Form

and obtain all appropriate signatures. The supervising adult may not be a relative, and the student

cannot be paid for the service.

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Students must accumulate 20 service hours per year to graduate from GCA. For students who

matriculate into GCA after the first semester of their freshman year, adjustments to the eighty-hour

requirement will be made at a rate of ten hours subtracted per full semester of non-GCA attendance.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES POLICIES

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/CLUBS

In order for GCA to provide a well-rounded program of academics, leadership development, and

meaningful experiences, it provides the following extra-curricular activities/CLUBS program.

Student Government Drama National Honor Society

Journalism/Yearbook Athletics Chess Club

Right to Life Club FCA Ping Pong Club

STEM Club Spanish Club Math Pentathlon

Madrigals ASL Club Foosball

Classic Car Club Art Club Spanish Club

If a group of students and/or parents desires to form an extra-curricular activity or club for GCA

students, they must complete the following procedure and submit it to the school administration:

● Define the extra-curricular activity or club:

� Its intended name; its primary activity and purpose;

� Its educational value;

� Its intended objectives and goals;

� The logistics of how it will be operated;

� The method of adult sponsorship and supervision;

� Related costs to the student and/or school;

� Its time impact on the total school program;

� Any other pertinent information to help determine that the activity is in agreement

with GCA’s overall philosophy, mission, and purpose.

● The administration will evaluate the request and determine if it is an appropriate activity for

the school at this time.

● The administration will give its decision to the responsible adult(s) making the request.

� If the response is positive, the responsible adult supervisor(s) will work with the

administration to implement the program.

� If the response is negative, the responsible adult supervisor(s) may ask the

Superintendent to review the request.

The activity may be canceled if it is determined by the administration that the activity no longer

provides a positive and Christian experience for the student or if the activity is placing undue

hardship on finances and/or time.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION IN ALL EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

1. Eligibility applies to all students who participate in any and all extracurricular activities.

a. Academics

i. Students may not receive a D- (62.9) or an F on any midterm progress report or

quarterly report card and must maintain an overall 2.0 average in all subjects in order

to participate in the sport or extracurricular event.   (See Athletic Handbook for details

on athletic eligibility).

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ii. Eligibility is determined at both the midterm report of grades and at the completion of

each quarter grading period.

iii. If a student-athlete is ineligible, he/she will not be allowed to participate in events or

contests until the next eligibility check. However, the student is expected to attend all

practices and games to remain part of the team.

b. School Attendance

i. A student must attend school on the days of an extra-curricular practice and contest in

order to participate in that practice or contest. The minimum attendance for a

student-athlete to participate in at least ½ (a minimum of 4 of the 8 class periods) of

the instructional time of the school day.

ii. Students must be in attendance in school the day after any extra-curricular activity

unless a viable (the excuse “I was too tired” is NOT an excused absence) excused notice,

signed by the parents, is given to the office.

iii. Any absence that would be categorized as unexcused will render a student unable to

participate in the day’s events.

c.    Suspensions

i. Any student-athlete that is suspended from school (in-school or out of school) is

ineligible for practice and/or athletic competition for the duration of the suspension.

ii. The principal and athletic director reserve the right to extend the athletic suspension

beyond the duration of the school suspension.

2. There may be circumstances concerning a student’s eligibility that are not covered by the above

stipulations; therefore, the school administration and Athletic Director will make the final

decision concerning eligibility.

CHRISTIAN ATHLETICS

The Christian philosophy of athletics must stem directly from the school’s Christian philosophy of

education. The ultimate goal must be “to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ” (Romans 8:29) and

to “develop the spiritual part of the athlete so that the Holy Spirit is in control and directing his/her mind

and body.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

Our Goals

1. Integrity: Honoring God with Christ-like behavior in all areas of life (Proverbs 11:3).

2. Respect: If you expect respect, be the first to show it (Philippians 2:3).

3. Servant Leadership: As a servant leader, is a "servant first" – they focus on the needs of others,

especially their team members before they consider their own (Mark 10:43-45).

4. Teamwork: Willingness to put your individual goals behind the goals of the team (Romans

14:19)

5. Performance: Develop student-athletes who are playing to glorify and honor God as well as

develop discipline and self-controlled attitudes (Colossians 3: 23-24).

(1 Corinthians 9:24-27): “Do you know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize?

Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown of laurel that will

not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore, I do not run like a man running

aimlessly, I do not fight like a man shadow boxing. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that

after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”

STUDENT ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

Greenwood Christian Academy considers the student-athlete to be a student first and an athlete

second. This means that academic achievement takes precedence over athletic participation.

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Therefore, GCA holds its student-athletes to a higher standard. The following policy is also outlined in

the Athletic Handbook for Students & Parents. (If IHSAA eligibility requirements are more restrictive,

IHSAA requirements are followed.

 

The following policy shall govern student athletic eligibility:

1. No student may participate in a practice or scheduled game unless he has submitted a

physical exam form from his physician.  

2. No student may participate in scheduled games unless the participation fees have been paid.

3. Eligibility applies to all students who participate in any extracurricular activities.

a. Students may not receive a D- or an F on any midterm progress report or quarterly report

card” and must maintain an overall 2.0 average in all subjects in order to participate in the

sport.   (See Athletic Handbook for details on specific athletic eligibility.)

b. Eligibility is determined at both the midterm report of grades and at the completion of each

quarter grading period.

c. If a student-athlete is ineligible in any subject, he/she will not be allowed to participate in

events or contests until the next eligibility check.

d. However, the student is expected to attend all practices and games to remain part of the

team.

e. A student’s fourth-quarter grades will determine eligibility for the upcoming fall season.

f. School Attendance

i. A student-athlete must attend school on the days of athletic practice and contest in

order to participate in that practice or contest. The minimum attendance for a

student-athlete to participate in at least ½ (a minimum of 4 of the 8 class periods) of

the instructional time of the school day.

ii. The principal and athletic director may grant student-athlete permission to

participate because of extenuating circumstances.

iii. Any absence that would be categorized as unexcused will render an athlete unable

to participate in the day’s events.

g. Suspensions

i. Any student-athlete that is suspended from school (in-school or out of school) is

ineligible for practice and/or athletic competition for the duration of the suspension.

ii. The principal and athletic director reserve the right to extend the athletic

suspension beyond the duration of the school suspension.

STANDARDS OF STUDENT-ATHLETES, COACHES, AND SPECTATORS’ BEHAVIOR

GCA conducts an interscholastic sports program in the belief that competitive team experiences

contribute significantly to the development of character, mutual support, and school spirit.

Sportsmanship is an important part of this training.

The school expects its coaches, its players, and its students to represent the school in a manner that

is respectful of others on and off the field of play. It also encourages and endorses the enthusiastic

support of constituents and friends. In the process, the school expects all such constituents and

friends to uphold the same high standards that are expected of its students. Opposing teams and their

fans are to be treated as honored guests.

The administration is directed to implement these policies and those established by the league at all

levels of competition.

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Study Hall Acknowledgement Form (copy) Appendix A

Please sign below after you have read and discussed the MS/HS GCA Study Hall guidelines.

It is very important that you understand your signatures below indicate your agreement to

abide by these expectations for the 2017-2018 school year.

Expectations:

Study Hall Rules and Regulations

1. BE ON TIME: all students must be in the classroom when the tardy bell rings

or students are counted tardy.

2. BE PREPARED: all your books, notebooks, writing utensils available and ready.

3. ALL STUDENTS MUST bring work to study hall and WORK until the bell rings.

4. NO talking without permission.

5. A student may use a tablet, computer, or Chromebook as an academic tool.

6. ONLY ONE STUDENT will be given permission to leave the study hall at any

one time to go to the restroom or locker.

7. Use Your Time Wisely and Do Your Best as though you are working for Christ.

Study Hall is a gift of time to be used wisely!

Failure to follow these expectations will result in removal from Study Hall.

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Appendix B

GCA Chromebook Contract

Google Chromebook Rules, Regulations, & Agreements Grades 3-12 (copy)

Please read over the information below and sign the following agreement. In order to use the

Google Chromebook for required class activities, you must be responsible for adhering to

these rules and policies at all times. Remember, the device is at all times the property of

Greenwood Christian Academy, not your personal device.  Violation of these regulations can

result in loss of the device &/or void the warranty.  Thank you.

● Only use the device that is assigned specifically to you; do not let other students use or borrow

your device.

● Do not place books or other items on top of the device.

● Never leave your device unattended.

● Shutdown the device completely before charging the device for the next day. This should occur

at the end of every school day; do not plug in the device to charge between classes or during

class without teacher permission.

● Students should not personalize their devices in any way. This includes decals, screensavers,

and downloading any software, application or short cuts that have not been explicitly allowed

by the teacher (devices will be periodically checked for illicit downloads).

● Only use the device for school work.

● If you notice that something is wrong with the device, report to your teacher immediately.

● No food or drinks allowed around the devices.

E-mail Usage

● The primary purpose of the student electronic mail system is for students to communicate with

school staff, outside resources related to school assignments, and fellow students to

collaborate on school activities.

● Students are responsible for good behavior while using school email, just as they are in a

classroom or a school hallway.

● Access to email is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner.

Access is a privilege – not a right. Access entails responsibility.

● Students are responsible for messages sent from their accounts.

● Students should not share their passwords.

● Students should not give out personal information over email, including home telephone

numbers or home addresses.

● Students will not use email to bully, harass, or threaten other students or individuals

● Students will report any unusual activities such as "spam" communications, obscene email,

and attempts by adults to lure them into dangerous behaviors to the school's technology

specialist.

● Students will not use email to send chain letters, viruses, or hoaxes to other students or staff.

● Email accounts are filtered and messages written containing inappropriate language or content

will be flagged.

● Student email is provided by GCA and GCA property. Greenwood Christian Academy reserves

the right to archive, monitor and/or review all use of its email system, and users should not

have any expectation of privacy in any electronic message created, sent or received on the

school’s email system.

● Student email accounts will be removed from the system after graduation, leaving the school

district, or disciplinary actions. If necessary, Greenwood Christian Academy, at its discretion,

may close the accounts at any time.

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This Greenwood Christian Academy Student Chromebook Contract is made effective as of

__________________ between GCA and its student, ____________________________________, and states the

agreement of the parties as follows:

Equipment Subject to Agreement: The equipment subject to this Agreement (“Contract”) includes

one Chromebook.

Ownership: The equipment is the property of the GCA.

Term Equipment Use: The school may require the student to return the equipment at any time and

for any reason.

Equipment Storage and Use at School: The equipment must be on the school’s premises during each

of the student’s normal school days.

Use of Equipment: The primary use of the equipment by the student is for the student’s educational

programs. The student shall abide by the school’s Student Electronic Acceptable Use Policy and Social

Media Conduct.

Care of Equipment: The Equipment may only be used in a careful and proper manner. Chromebooks

must be carried and transported appropriately. Otherwise, they should be closed and carefully carried.

Failure to close the lid of the Chromebook before transporting it could damage it. No food or beverages

should be in the vicinity of the Chromebook. Chromebooks may not be used in the Auditorium during

lunch. The student shall keep the equipment in good operating condition, allowing for reasonable wear

and tear. The student shall immediately notify the school’s IT director if the equipment is not in good

operating condition or is in need of repair. The student shall be financially responsible for repairs due

to negligence.

Batteries/Charging: The Chromebook will be returned to the charging station at the end of each

school day when appropriate or should be charged by the student at home.

Loss: The student assumes all risks of loss of the equipment and agrees to return it to the school in

the condition received from the school, with the exception of normal wear and tear.

Indemnity of School for Loss or Damage: If the equipment is damaged or lost due to negligence,

GCA shall have the option of requiring the student to pay the cost of repair of the equipment to a state

of good working order or to reimburse the school for the replacement cost of such equipment.

Entire Agreement and Modification: This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the

parties. No modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be effective unless in writing and

signed by both parties. This Agreement replaces any and all prior computer use agreements between

the parties.

Disclosures: The student and his/her guardian hereby agree to these policies and regulations.

_____ I accept the above.

_____ I decline this device and will ensure that my child brings to school a device that is capable of

using Wi-Fi and can operate the Google Application for Education system.

Student Grade: _______

Student Name (printed): __________________________Student Signature: _________________________ Date:

Parent/Guardian Name (printed): __________________ Parent/Guardian Signature _________________ Date:

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

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Appendix C

Greenwood Christian Academy

Student Electronic Acceptable Use Policy and Social Media Code of Conduct

(copy)

Reasons for This Policy

Greenwood Christian Academy ("GCA") is providing computer networks and Internet access for its

students and employees. This service allows employees and students to share information, learn new

concepts, and research diverse subjects.

GCA has adopted this Acceptable Use Policy ("Policy") to set guidelines for accessing the computer

network or the Internet service provided by GCA. Every year, students who want computer networks

and Internet access for that upcoming school year need to sign and submit a copy of the Policy to

GCA. Students also must have their parents or guardians sign this Policy. By signing this agreement,

the student and parent or guardian agree to follow the rules set forth in this Policy and to report any

misuse of the computer network or the Internet to a teacher or supervisor. Parties agreeing to this

policy also understand that GCA may revise the Acceptable Use Policy, as it deems necessary. GCA

will provide notice of any changes either by posting such a revised version of the Policy on its website

or by providing written notice to the students and parents or guardians.

Computer & Internet Uses

Use of the electronic information resources in the school shall be to improve and support the

educational process by providing access to global information and improving communication between

students, employees of Greenwood Christian Academy, parents, and community members. The use of

the Internet and computer equipment within GCA is a privilege. Violation of this policy can result in

the loss of computer access privileges.

Acceptable Uses

All Internet or computer equipment use shall be consistent with the purposes and goals of GCA. It is

imperative that users of the Internet or computer equipment conduct themselves in a responsible,

ethical, moral, and polite manner. All users must abide by all local, state, and federal laws. The

Internet user accepts the responsibility of adhering to high standards of conduct and the terms and

conditions set forth in all parts of this policy.

Impermissible Internet & Computer Equipment Uses

The following uses of the Internet & computer equipment are prohibited:

1. Any violation of posted computer lab rules, applicable school policy, or public law by such use;

2. Any activity that is immoral or contrary to the high moral standards which must be maintained

in an educational setting;

3. Any attempt to bypass school security, including Internet filters, is forbidden;

4. Accessing or transmitting of immoral, obscene, pornographic, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude,

defaming, harassing, bullying, threatening, disrespectful, or otherwise inappropriate images or

information, or receiving such information from others by means of e-mail, instant messages,

and material posted on Web pages or Weblogs (“blogs”);

5. Any commercial use, product advertisement, display of personal information, or promotion of

political candidates;

6. Any violation of copyright, trade secret or trademark laws;

7. Any attempt to damage, disrupt or interfere with the use of any computer or electronic

information resource;

8. Any attempt to access information beyond the users authorized access to any electronic

information resources;

9. Any destruction, defacement, theft, or altering of school equipment;

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10. Any storing of illegal, inappropriate, or obscene material on school-owned electronic equipment;

Monitoring

GCA reserves the right to monitor and review any material on any electronic device at any time in

order for the school to determine any inappropriate use of computer resources. GCA utilizes the Bark

for Schools Monitoring systems that detects potential issues like cyberbullying, sexting, suicidal

ideation, threats of violence, and more. Parents may also sign up for alerts utilizing the parent portal

link. The staff will make a reasonable attempt to supervise student use of computers, in a manner that

is appropriate to the students’ age and the circumstances of use.

Disclaimer of All Warranties

GCA makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the services provided in

connection with the use of the Internet or computer equipment. Neither GCA nor any supporting

Internet services will be responsible for any damages that an Internet user suffers. GCA expressly

disclaims any liability in connection with the loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, failure

to deliver, mistaken deliveries, viruses, backup device failure, service interruptions, or other

unforeseen reasons caused by GCA or the Internet server or by the users’ errors or omissions. Use of

any information obtained via the Internet is at the user's own risk. GCA expressly denies any

responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through any Internet service. All

users must consider the source of any information they obtain and evaluate the validity of that

information.

Security

GCA will implement security procedures on Internet access to protect against unacceptable use.

Computer users are responsible for the security of their files and passwords. Sharing of any

usernames or passwords to anyone is not permissible and may result in the loss of account privileges.

Computer users will be held accountable for any activity under their account. Any security problems

should be reported immediately to the school/site administrator.

An Encounter of Controversial Material

Internet users may encounter material that is controversial which the user or administrator may

consider inappropriate or offensive. The school has taken precautions to restrict access to

inappropriate materials through a filtering and monitoring system. However, it is impossible on a

global Internet, to control access to all data that a user may discover. It is the user's responsibility not

to initiate access to such material. Any site or material that is deemed controversial should be

reported immediately to the appropriate administrator. GCA expressly disclaims any obligation to

discover all violations of inappropriate Internet access.

The filtering software may not at any time be disabled when students are using the Internet if such

disabling will cease to protect against access to inappropriate materials. Authorized staff may

temporarily or permanently unblock access to sites containing appropriate material if the filtering

software has inappropriately blocked access to such sites.

Terms of Use

1. Only registered students of GCA qualify for computer use under this policy.

2. Only the authorized users who have signed the user agreement shall have computer access.

Users are ultimately responsible for all activities while using the Internet.

3. The superintendent and/or school principal may suspend or terminate any computer user's

access for any reason.

4. All Internet or computer equipment access of a student is automatically terminated at the

moment of withdrawal, graduation, or expulsion of the student from GCA.

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PERSONAL INTERNET USE

Students’ home and personal Internet use can have an impact on the school, staff, and other

students. If students’ personal Internet expression – such as a threatening message to another

student or a violent Web site – creates a likelihood of material disruption of the school’s operations,

students may face school discipline and if applicable the proper authorities will be notified.

SOCIAL MEDIA CONTRACT

Guidelines: Social media such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, LinkedIn, Instagram,

Pinterest, personal texting, and others, are powerful tools of communication that have a significant

impact on an individual's personal reputation as well as the reputation of Greenwood Christian

Academy. The parent/guardian and student must read and sign this contract acknowledging the

student's responsibility to use social media responsibly as a member of Greenwood Christian

Academy.

CYBERBULLYING

● Definition: The use of electronic information and communication devices to willfully and

repeatedly harm either a person or persons through the medium of text.

● Cyberbullying and harassment deliberately threatens, harasses, or intimidates an individual or

group of individuals; or places an individual in reasonable fear of harm to self or damage to the

individual's property or reputation; or has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly

operation of the school.

● This can be a violation of a student's right to be safe and secure on campus. This type of

harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying done in or out of school will be dealt with at school

and receive disciplinary action.

● Students who misuse technology on campus (including cell phones, laptops, Chromebooks,

iPods and iPads) for cheating, bullying, and other inappropriate activities may receive

additional discipline.

SEXTING

● Definition: Sexting is the act of sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit or suggestive

messages, photos, or images via cell phone, computer, or another digital device.

● “Sexting” between students is subject to school discipline, regardless of the time it occurs.

● The Child Abuse/Neglect Law requires school personnel to report to law enforcement or child

protective services whenever a reason to believe that any person/student is involved with “child

exploitation” or “child pornography” as defined by Indiana Criminal Statutes exists. This would

include information found on cell phones. In addition to taking any disciplinary action, phones

will be confiscated and students should be aware that any images suspected to violate criminal

laws will be referred to law enforcement officials.

● The school considers sending, sharing, possessing, or even viewing pictures, text messages, or

e-mails that contain a sexual message or image a violation of this policy, a violation that will

result in school discipline, up to and including expulsion, and in the notification of local law

enforcement.

● Students are required to immediately report any such activities to a teacher or a school

administrator.

Please use the following guidelines when posting on Social Media Sites.

1. Always be authentic. Be honest about your identity. If you post personally, or as a student of

Greenwood Christian Academy, make sure you are aware of the Standards of the Contract.

2. Don't be a mole but protect your identity. Never pretend to be someone else when you post

personal or as a student of Greenwood Christian Academy.

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3. Think twice before posting, it is digitally permanent. Privacy does not exist in the world of

Social Media.

4. Be respectful and thoughtful. As a student of Greenwood Christian Academy, be mindful of the

school's commitment to a Christian Worldview showing respect and dignity for all people.

5. Know the rules.

6. Follow a code of ethics.

7. Always remember that Cyberbullying is the willful and repeated bullying or harassment of

another person or persons through the medium of Social Media which includes electronic text.

8. Students who engage in Cyberbullying on Social Media sites, including electronic text, can be

disciplined by Greenwood Christian Academy administrators as needed.

Penalties for Improper Use

● Any user violating this policy or applicable state and federal laws will be restricted from

Internet use or use of any or all computers (in addition to other disciplinary options). Such

additional options may include detention, suspension, expulsion, and/or referral to legal

authorities.

● The minimum penalty for a first violation will be detention and the loss of Internet privileges for

a period of 4 weeks of school.

● The minimum penalty for a second violation will be a Saturday detention and the loss of

Internet privileges for a period of 18 weeks of school.

The minimum penalty for a third violation or any violation in which a user willfully abuses the

Internet privilege for an immoral or malicious activity will be a suspension and the loss of

Internet privileges for a period of 36 weeks of school.

● Penalties will carry over to the next school year if applicable.

It is to be understood that Internet access for students is a privilege, not a right. All users of the

Internet will agree to adhere to the following Code of Ethics:

I will strive to act in all situations with honesty, integrity, and respect for the rights of others and to help

others to behave in a similar fashion. I will make a conscious effort to be a good testimony to my fellow

students, faculty members, and others I communicate with on the Internet. I agree to follow GCA’s basic

rules for Internet use. I will strive to apply Philippians 4:8 to my electronic communications: “Finally

brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,

whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

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Student Electronic Acceptable Use Policy and Social Media Code of Conduct

User Agreement (copy)

It is to be understood that Internet access for students is a privilege, not a right. All users of the

Internet will agree to adhere to the following Code of Ethics:

I will strive to act in all situations with honesty, integrity, and respect for the rights of others and to help

others to behave in a similar fashion. I will make a conscious effort to be a good testimony to my fellow

students, faculty members, and others I communicate with on the Internet. I agree to follow GCA’s basic

rules for Internet use. I will strive to apply Philippians 4:8 to my electronic communications: “Finally

brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,

whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Student:

I have read, understand, and will abide by the Greenwood Christian Academy Student Electronic

Acceptable Use Policy and Social Media Code of Conduct as outlined on pages 63-66 in the

Parent-Student Handbook. I agree that I will keep my unique login and password information private

and not allow others to have access using my account. Should I commit any violation, I realize that

my access privileges may be revoked and other disciplinary action may be taken (which could

include appropriate legal action).

Student Name (please print):_____________________________________________ Grade: ____________

Student Signature: ______________________________________________________ Date: _____________

Parent/Guardian:

As the parent or guardian of the above-signed student, I have read the Student Computer Acceptable

Use Policy. I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. I understand that

every attempt will be made to filter objectionable material; however, no filter system is perfect.

Please initial the appropriate line below. No internet access will be given unless an option is

initialed.

____ I hereby give permission for my student to have access to the internet at GCA.

____ I DO NOT give permission for my student to have access to the internet.

Parent/Guardian (print): _______________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature _______________________________________________Date: __________

Appendix D

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Student and Parent Handbook Acknowledgement Form

(copy)

Please review carefully this edition of the Greenwood Christian Academy

PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK, sign the statement below and return this form to the Main

School Office.

o I acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Greenwood Christian Academy

Student-Parent Handbook including the Student Acceptable Use Policy and Social

Media Code of Conduct located in Appendix C.

o I understand that it contains important information on policies and procedures related

to student safety, student learning, expectations, student behavior, and other

information related to student and parent rights.

o I realize this handbook is not intended to cover every situation which may arise but is

simply a general guide to refer to.

o I understand that it is my responsibility to familiarize myself with the information and

that I agree with the policies and rules of the school.

o I further understand and acknowledge that GCA may change, add or delete any

policies or provisions in this handbook as it sees fit in its sole judgment and

discretion.

o I acknowledge and understand that this Student-Parent Handbook supersedes and

replaces any and all prior handbooks or materials previously distributed.

o I recognize that a copy of this agreement will be in effect and kept on file until a time

when/if any policies are changed.

o I/we have read the entire contents of the Parent/Student Handbook, including the

school’s policy on student learning expectations, student behavior, both school and

extra- curricular dress code as well as other information related to student and parent

rights, and agree to abide by the rules, regulations, and policies of Greenwood

Christian Academy.

Student Name (please print): _____________________________________________ Grade: ____________

Student Signature: ______________________________________________________ Date: _____________

Parent/Legal Guardian (please print): _______________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature _______________________________________________Date: __________

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GCA HIGH SCHOOL PARKING PERMIT APPLICATION (Copy)

Any GCA student who wishes to park a vehicle on school grounds during school hours must completean application, have it approved by the school administration and purchase a parking decal for $5.

The student must present a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration when purchasing the decal.

Student Information (Large print please)

Student Name __________________________________ Student Cell# ______________

Grade _______

Vehicle Information Vehicle Make/Model _________________________________

Vehicle Year ________ Vehicle Color __________________

License Plate # ___________________________Insurance company ____________________

PURCHASING A DECAL DOES NOT GUARANTEE YOU A SPECIFIC PARKING SPACE

Parental Authorization: I hereby grant permission for my son/daughter to drive the above –identifiedvehicle to school. I have read and understand the parking regulations listed on the reverse side of thisapplication and agree that my son/daughter, and I will accept and abide by these regulations or besubject to the penalty (loss of parking privileges) associated with any violation.

Parent/Guardian Signature (required here and on the back of this form)

___________________________________________________________ Date _____________

Date __________ Decal # ______________ (Office use only)

APPENDIX E

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Rules Regarding Student’s Driving, Parking and Use of Parking Lots.

❏ All automobiles parked on the school grounds must be registered with the school and must

display a valid decal inside the front window in the upper corner, driver’s side.

❏ Parking decals must be properly displayed at all times.

❏ Decals are valid only for the student to whom it was issued. You cannot give, sell or in any way

transfer your decal or driving privilege to another student. (30 Day Parking Suspended for

violation)

❏ Students must be licensed and covered by insurance.

❏ The school is not responsible for the automobile or its contents.

❏ There will be NO speeding or any form of reckless driving on the school grounds.

❏ Maximum speed is 10 miles per hour.

❏ Student vehicles may be subject to search if there are reasonable grounds to believe that drugs,

alcohol, stolen property, or other contraband might be present in that vehicle.

❏ Parking regulations are strictly enforced.

❏ Understand that being issued a parking decal provides you with permission to park the registered

vehicle if space is available and that you are not guaranteed a parking space.

SIGN THIS FORM ONLY IF YOU HAVE READ ALL THE RULES AND AGREE TO ABIDE BYTHEM.

I, _________________________________ have read all of the parking rules and regulations, fullyunderstand them and agree to abide by them.

Student Signature ____________________________________Date____________

Parent Signature _____________________________________ Date ____________

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