Student Handbook
Download pdfTABLE OF CONTENTS
Vision and Mission Statement
Goals
Student Information
Admission and Scholastic Requirements
Attendance, Absences (Excused & Unexcused)
Class Size
Conferences, Visits to Classrooms
Curriculum
Discipline
Dress Code
Drug Policy
Early Release, Off Campus Lunch
Evaluation
Food Services
Homework Policy
Medications
Orientation
Parties
Safety Programs
Special Programs
Standardized Testing Program
Study Trips/Field Trips
Tardy Policy
Traffic and Parking
Day Care
Honor Choirs & Computers
Financial Information
Change of Address, Telephone & Calls
Fundraisers
Insurance
Operation Expenses
Tuition Discounts & Late Fees
Personnel Policies
Accreditation
PTO
School Committee
Teacher Qualifications & Employment
Volunteer 19
SCHOOL POLICIES FOR FIRST BAPTIST SCHOOL
First Baptist School, a model of Christian and academic excellence, will provide a challenging and creative curriculum based on Biblical truths. Christian education goes beyond physical, intellectual, and emotional development to encourage spiritual growth of students and families that leads to a lifetime walk with Christ.
MISSION STATEMENT
First Baptist School is a ministry and cooperating part of First Baptist Church.
The mission of FBS is:
Every child is challenged to achieve their academic excellence and their spiritual awareness through the opportunity to know Jesus Christ as Lord.
All FBS Staff are vital team members in developing the whole child.
All FBS Team Members are encouraged to continually grow as a Christian role model through:
A devotional life,
A prayer life, and
An active member in their local church.
First Baptist School is an advocate of the family:
Families are the center of faith development for their child.
FBS partners with families in the child’s faith and
Intellectual development.
First Baptist School: Distinctly Christian ~ Academically Excellent.
GOALS top
First Baptist School admits qualified students without regard to race, color, ethnic background or national origin and promotes an atmosphere of acceptance among all people.
First Baptist School will provide the best professional staff that is committed to Christ and seeks to live by Christian principles, demonstrates Godly conduct, and has a deep love for all God’s children.
First Baptist School will provide a high level of academic excellence which is provided through a challenging and creative curriculum based on Biblical truths and exceeds the T.E.A. Standards.
First Baptist School will foster active mission involvement that enhances the quality of education provided for the student.
First Baptist School will assist students in developing and accepting responsibilities for learning decisions and actions.
First Baptist School’s goal is for every child to achieve success. To that end, placement of grade level through an interviewing process, student testing, and/or assessment by educators will be administered prior to enrollment.
First Baptist School will provide a meaningful learning experience giving students the opportunity to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and self motivated creative individuals striving for physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual growth.
First Baptist School will provide and support the continuous professional development of the faculty and staff.
First Baptist School will meet the criteria for both a quality accredited academic school program and a quality licensed day care program.
First Baptist School will seek to provide Biblical discipleship and a nurturing relationship with Christ by integrating God’s word with academic curriculum and structured Bible classes.
First Baptist School will form caring relationships with parents to enhance the continuation of academic and spiritual growth of the students.
First Baptist School will remain an active, vital part of the ministry of First Baptist Church and will cooperate with the Sunday School and other church programs in the dual use of facilities. The school programs allow opportunities for families who are not affiliated with another church, to take part in worship, spiritual growth, and church activities.
First Baptist School will strive to attract and hold qualified teachers, administrators, and staff members by continuously upgrading staff salary scales, and providing opportunities for continued training to advance their skills and knowledge.
ADMISSION AND SCHOLASTIC REQUIREMENTS top
Although First Baptist School has something special to offer in the field of education, it cannot meet the needs of all students. The curriculum is geared to the average and above average student.
Admission to First Baptist School must be preceded by the following:
Registration forms must be completed, including the signing of the parent contract, and must be turned into the office along with the non-refundable registration fee.
Applicants, beginning in grade one, must present a report card and scores from a nationally recognized achievement test, if available, and previous school records. Scores must be at grade level or above to be eligible for admission to that grade level.
Applicants new to the school must have:
Passing grades from previous school.
No major discipline infractions from previous school.
A conference with the principal. .
The Texas Education Agency policy of enrolling only those first grade students, who are six by September 1, will be followed. In order to facilitate proper placement, a child entering preschool must be two by September 1, and totally potty trained; a child entering pre-kindergarten must be four by September 1; and a child entering kindergarten must be five by September 1. Children entering grade school must also demonstrate appropriate grade level performance on a standard achievement test.
Careful consideration will be used in an honest effort to enroll those who desire an education in a Christian atmosphere. Priority of acceptance for admission to First Baptist School is determined by the applicant’s status as follows:
Pupils continuing in First Baptist School
Siblings in families who already have one or more children in the school
Children of members of First Baptist Church
Children of parents who are not members of First Baptist Church in the order applications are received
First Baptist School does not discriminate on the basis of race or religious creed in administration of its educational or admission policies. In order that we may comply with state licensing requirements, all children from pre-school and up, must have current health information, which includes an up-to-date immunization record, on file in the office upon entering school.
ATTENDANCE top
School hours for preschool and pre-kinder are half day from 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and
full school day (not including afternoon day care) from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
School hours for kindergarten through fifth grades are from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Sixth through eighth grades are from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Attendance is vital to the success of a student. Students are required by state law to be in school, unless they are ill, for 94%, (164.5 days) of each academic year; the year is 175 days. The school can grant an early dismissal for emergencies and for medical and dental appointments when those appointments cannot be scheduled outside of school hours. All other activities should be scheduled for after school hours. No student may leave for illness unless they have first been to the school office. A sick child does not need to be in school. If a child has a fever, (99.4 or higher) he/she may not return to school for 24 hours after his/her fever has abated. If a child becomes sick at school, (such as vomiting or diarrhea) the parent will be called to come for the child.
A student, kindergarten through eighth grade, must be present 2 ½ hours in the morning (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon) and 2 hours in the afternoon (12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m.) to be considered present. A student, missing more than 1½ hours in the morning, or more than 1 hour in the afternoon, will be considered absent for ½ day. Anyone, parent or other, picking up a child before class time is over, or anyone picking up a child, other than a parent or guardian, MUST sign the child out in the school office and present a note from the office to the teacher. Students in daycare will be signed out through the day care teacher.
ABSENCES
When a student is absent from school, the parent/guardian should call the office before 9:00 a. m. to verify the student’s absence at (361) 884-8931. If a call is not received, the office/teacher may contact the parent/guardian. It is imperative that we have updated work numbers of both parents in the office. A call should be made for each day a student is absent. If the parent wishes to pick up any assignments for a student who is ill, all requests should be made to the school before noon to be picked up at the end of the school day. Upon returning to school, the student/parent should bring a note from the parent explaining the absence to the office before reporting to his/her class. A note from the Dr. is required for any student who is absent more than 2 days. If a student needs to be excused for a medical appointment, written or verbal permission from a parent/guardian must be given. We request that if possible all medical appointments be made after school hours.
EXCUSED ABSENCES:
Absences because of personal illness, medical/dental appointments that cannot be scheduled after school, death in the family, school activities, or with prior approval from the principal are excused absences. Make-up work (with credit) will be given. If a student’s work was clearly assigned before the absence, the student should be prepared to turn in/take tests the day he/she returns. A student has the same number of days to make up an assignment as the number of days he/she was absent (i.e., absent three days, three days to make up the work and hand it in). It is the student’s responsibility to make up missed work.
Students are responsible for turning in all assignments missed because of absence from class. This requirement also applies when students are in school but have missed class because of a special activity. In either case, the student should confer with his/her teacher and clearly understand the due date of each assignment.
When a student is hospitalized, absences from school must be excused by a doctor’s note with instructions for the release back to school.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES:
Absence without permission from school authorities is considered unexcused. The student will be held responsible for making up all work.
Students will be allowed a maximum of ten days excused absence per year for such things as family and/or educational trips, but only at the discretion of the administration.
Any days taken beyond the ten days will be considered unexcused, which may result in grades being lowered.
CLASS SIZE top
First Baptist School classes are organized and structured on the following teacher-pupil ratio; however, there may be exceptions depending on grade level, teacher assistants, and room size. These numbers are in accordance with those stated in the standards of the Department of Protective and Regulatory Services.
2 years and potty trained . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/12 with an assistant
3 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9/17 with an assistant
3 ½ years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10/17 with an assistant
4 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12/18 with an assistant
5 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13/18 with an assistant
Grades 1 - 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 ~ no assistant
CONFERENCES top
Parents may ask for a conference at any time. Please make an effort to find a mutually convenient time. Should there be a problem finding such a time, please contact the office. The principal will attend any conference if invited by the teacher or parent. Conferences will not be held during classroom time with students present or during any special events (including open house).
VISITS TO CLASSROOMS
Parents, or other visitors, are always encouraged to visit the classrooms. However, we do limit the visit to not more than 30 minutes on a scheduled basis. (This is not to be considered time for parent-teacher conferences. Conferences should be scheduled with the teacher for a time that is convenient for both parents and teacher.) All visitors MUST check in with the office and obtain a visitor pass before going to the classroom. This will help minimize interruptions and help insure a safe environment for the children.
CURRICULUM top
First Baptist School seeks to be both student and Christian centered in every area of its operation.
We believe spiritual resources must be used in order to develop the whole child. This makes Christian education different from all other education; it includes, yet goes beyond, mere intellectual development and activity. The school offers a variety of classes for children from age two through grade eight. The standards of the Texas Education Agency shall be used as guidelines for the grade school academic curriculum; however, we will reach higher than these minimum standards, challenging our students to reach their greatest potential. We attempt to satisfy the child’s urge to create and express ideas and feelings through special programs and to encourage growth, appreciation, and understanding of the creative efforts of others. It is intended that the curriculum will help each student reach his or her potential as a resourceful, productive, and creative Christian citizen. A detailed school curriculum is available in the school office.
FIRST BAPTIST SCHOOL DISCIPLINE PLAN: top
The First Baptist school-wide discipline plan applies to all children, at all times, in all situations: classroom, library, playground and lunchtime. The entire staff will be implementing this plan including principal, teachers, lunch supervisors, secretaries, custodians and volunteers.
Our Philosophy is:
Anything that stops learning is unacceptable.
Anything that stops teaching is unacceptable.
Anything that endangers another is unacceptable.
Our School RULES are as follows:
I will be in the right place at the right time, that means:
On time to school.
In my seat on time.
Ready to work with books and homework.
I will show respect for all people and property, that means:
Keep hands/feet/objects to self.
Speak to others in an appropriate manner.
Keep school looking attractive and clean of litter.
I will use common sense in the classroom and outside, that means:
I will follow the 4 –step rule if someone is bothering me:
Tell person to stop.
Walk away.
Ask an adult for help if needed.
Ask myself: Will I get hurt or hurt someone else – if the answer is yes, do not do it.
I will leave gum, candy, toys, all electronics, including cell phones, and other valuables at home unless approved by the teacher and/or principal.
Students Who Behave Appropriately Will Earn:
Personal and positive recognition from staff.
Positive written recognition from staff through notes or certificates of commendation.
Class level recognition activities.
School-wide recognition.
If a Student Chooses to Break a Rule:
The rules of our classrooms are posted. These rules are based on Job 1:8 A man who fears God and shuns evil. If a problem arises the following procedures will be followed:
Warning
Warning
Warning recorded; parent/guardian contacted; brief student/teacher conference.
Warning recorded; student assigned to detention on a designated day and at a designated time; written contact to parents.
Warning recorded; office discipline referral.
Warning recorded; behavior probation/behavior will be reviewed by principal, teacher, parents, and expulsion may be recommended.
For students who are chronically disrupting or show repetitive misconduct, the following will occur:
Suspension: OR
An Individual Behavioral Contract between student-home-staff regarding expectations and sequential consequences; OR
Recommendation for expulsion.
In cases of permanent expulsion, the parent has the right of appeal before the School Committee. In cases of suspension or expulsion, there will be no adjustment on the monthly tuition.
Parents and students should be aware that:
Causing bodily injury to another person or other severe disruptions can result in
immediate suspension or expulsion.
Authority to suspend or expel rests with the principal.
THE DRESS CODE WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED!!!! top
Dress Code:
Clothing Items Acceptable Dress Special Comments
Shirts Shirts Shirts
Grades K through 5 Shirt length – 4 inches below beltline and tucked in at all times Shirts – No form fitting, over-sized or tight shirts.
Monday – Any FBS T-Shirt or Polo Shirt may be worn – Spirit, Science Fair, Accelerated Reading, Summer Joy or Christian T-Shirt. Shirts – No rips/slashes or holes.
Tuesday through Friday (except Chapel Day) – School Polo Shirt – Mandatory. Solid color Polo shirt – Green, Gold, Blue, Pink, Red, White or Grey Shirts – No emblem or logo not affiliated with FBS.
Chapel Day – only Dark Green Polo shirt with FBS logo.
Field Trips – only Dark Green Polo shirt with FBS logo
Pants/Slacks/Capri’s Pants/Slacks/Capri’s Pants/Slacks/Capri’s
Grades K through 5 Pants – must be Denim, Black, Navy or Khaki. Pants – no other colors or materials accepted
Pants – must be belted, neatly hemmed. Pants – standard slacks or 5 pocket jeans. No carpenter style, baggy, oversized, fringed or conspicuous holes.
Pants – must be fitted at the waist, crotch, legs and ankles. Pants – must not have sequins or designs, spandex or other form-fitting materials.
*Waist is determined by placing hands above the hip bone or the navel area. Pants – no athletic apparel – basketball shorts or wind pants except on game day. No cut-offs
Skorts/Shorts/Skirts Skorts/Shorts/Skirts Skorts/Shorts/Skirts
Grades K through 5 Skorts, skirts and shorts – must be only Denim, Black, Navy or Khaki. Skorts, skirts and shorts – no highly slashed, baggy or oversized. Solid colors, no sequins or designs.
Skorts, skirts and shorts must be belted, neatly hemmed and fitted at the waist, crotch, legs and modest in appearance. Skorts, skirts and shorts – no immodestly split at the hem or seams.
Skorts, skirts and shorts – shall be no more than 2 inches above the knee. No athletic apparel – basketball shorts
Except on game day.
Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters
Grades K through 5 Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters –only solid Green, Gold, Blue, Pink, Red, White or Grey with or without FBS logo. Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters – no rips, slashes or holes. No emblem or logo not affiliated with FBS.
Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters – must be properly sized.
Belts/Shoes Belts/Shoes Belts/Shoes
Grades 2 through 5 Belts – plain belts – everyday Must not have any embellishments or oversized buckles.
Grades PS through 5 Shoes – athletic shoes only; laces must be properly tied. Shoes – no sandals or backless shoes, cleats or roller shoes.
Shoes – must be worn at all times for safety and health reasons.
Hair Hair Hair
Grades K through 5 Hair – be well groomed, non-distracting, away from the face and eyes. Hair – boys hair cannot touch the bottom of the shirt collar.
The Principal has the final authority to determine whether a student’s attire is within the requirements of the FBS dress code. The Principal’s judgment will determine whether any item(s) of attire, mentioned or not mentioned in the FBS dress code, will be considered inappropriate school attire.
FIRST BAPTIST SCHOOL
DRUG POLICY top
First Baptist School strives to maintain a nurturing environment conducive to a Christian-based education with high academic standards. In order to meet these goals, it is necessary to maintain a facility free of illegal drugs and alcohol. Parents and students should have a clear understanding of this policy.
Possession/Under Influence
A student in possession of or under the influence of tobacco, an illegal drug or alcohol will be removed from the school. Re-admittance may be allowed only on a probationary status and will be monitored and evaluated on a continuum.
A second offense will result in expulsion. .
Distribution/Possession with Intent to Distribute
A student found distributing or in possession with intent to distribute an illegal drug will be immediately and permanently suspended.
All prescription or over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, PMS formula, cold/allergy, cough syrup, throat lozenges, cough drops, topical cream, nose spray, eye drops, chap stick, sun screen, aspirin, etc., must be kept in the office. Parents must sign for all medications in the office.
EARLY RELEASES: top
All parental requests for an early dismissal of a student must be made verbally or in writing. Requests for early dismissals should be made no later than 9:00 a. m. To pick up a student, the parent must report to the school office. For the safety of our students and so the school can fulfill its responsibility to parents in caring for students’ safety, students are required to report to the office where they will meet their parents or the parents’ designated representative.
Students excused for a medical or dental appointment are expected to return to school at the end of the appointment, if time permits, and are to check in at the office immediately on returning to school.
OFF CAMPUS LUNCHES:
Students must provide a written note or a parental phone call to request to be off campus for lunch with an approved adult. The request should be turned in to the office; however, the school reserves the right to refuse the request. All students must return before the end of the lunch period which is 30 minutes. Excessive tardiness will be given a disciplinary warning.
EVALUATION top
Each reporting period is approximately nine weeks in length. Report cards are given out at the end of each grading period. Grades given are as follows: A= 90-100; B= 80-89; C= 70-79; F= 0-69. Social and Personal Development are graded by: S= Satisfactory; I= Improvement Needed;
U= Unsatisfactory.
FOOD SERVICES top
Children should have breakfast before coming to school; we do not serve breakfast, and we do not have a place for them to eat it here at school. Mid-morning snacks are served to preschool and pre-kinder children. Afternoon snacks are served to day care children in all sections. The charges for these snacks are included in the tuition fees. Lunch is served to all half day and full day children. Lunch tickets are purchased in the school office. Lunch menus are sent home each month. Children are encouraged to eat hot meals at school but are allowed to bring their lunch if desired. Milk, juice, and water are furnished free. Soft drinks are not allowed at school. Preschool – 2nd grade – NO MICROWAVEABLE FOOD ALLOWED, DUE TO TIME CONTRAINTS AND SAFETY.
HOMEWORK POLICY top
First Baptist School (FBS) teaches children to evaluate themselves and all their experiences according to God’s word. We help them integrate all aspects of their life into a lifestyle of faith: school learning, family activities, social experiences, hobbies, sports, service activities, and church experiences.
Consequently, our students and their families often have a full schedule of important activities. Even though schedules can become very busy, FBS believes homework is one of the important activities of the week.
GOALS FOR HOMEWORK
At FBS, homework promotes three important keys for student success: academic learning, character development, and family involvement.
To further academic learning, homework:
Helps students retain knowledge and practice skills
Stimulates creativity, communication, and thinking skills
Allows access to resources not available in classroom
Motivates or prepares students for later assignments.
Homework also provides the opportunity for students to develop:
Efficient management of time and materials
Concentration and task-oriented behavior
A sense of responsibility
Finally, homework involves parents by:
Communicating classroom activities
Providing positive family learning experiences
TYPES OF HOMEWORK
Teachers assign different types of homework to accomplish specific purposes. Practice homework
helps students master specific knowledge and skills that have been presented in class. This type of homework includes completing worksheets, playing learning games, writing short papers or sentences, reading together, and studying for tests.
Sometimes students need to communicate their mastery of knowledge and skills by using different media. To provide such opportunities, teachers assign extension homework such as writing compositions, preparing a demonstration, and making dioramas, maps, models, or other visual displays.
Other times teachers want students to complete projects that combine many skills and require a depth of knowledge. They assign projects, called integrative homework, such as preparing oral reports, written reports, science projects, class newspapers, or artistic productions.
Preparation homework, on the other hand, is designed to motivate or prepare students for knowledge and skills which they have not yet mastered. Teachers may assign students to read text, take notes on reading, work on solving a problem that will illustrate the need to learn upcoming material, or gather information from resources outside of class.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of assignments.
The student will organize his/her time to work on assignments.
The student will turn assignments in on time.
The student will have high standards regarding quality and completeness of work.
WHAT PARENTS CAN DO
While the pupil should assume the major responsibility for completing homework assignments, parents are encouraged to take an active interest in the pupil’s homework by the following:
Provide a study area that is quiet, comfortable and free from major disturbances.
Provide a definite time for study or other home activities.
Make available, if possible, such resource materials as reference books, magazines, newspapers, dictionary, computer, internet etc.
Assist pupils with mastery of specific skills (i.e., math facts).
Check the pupil’s work for neatness and legibility. (Primary children should use pencils for written work.)
Arrange with the teacher for limited homework assignments when the child’s physical condition necessitates it.
Monitor your child’s daily and/or weekly assignment sheets/books and long-range assignments.
Arrange with the school to secure assignments during a period of absence.
Parents are permitted and encouraged to assist their child with homework. If a child’s homework is consistently too difficult or exceeding the recommended time allotment, the child’s teacher should be notified.
Ensure that your child places his/her completed homework in his/her homework folder and backpack as soon as it is completed.
Assist your child with obtaining a “study buddy” or classmate who he/she can call if homework assignments are unclear.
A carefully planned program for homework assignments is an effective means of increasing student learning. A well-planned program of homework activities provides another opportunity for the home and school to work together.
TIME ALLOTMENTS
The time allotted to homework should increase gradually from grade to grade. The following is a list of approximate daily time allotments (may vary according to the child):
Guidelines
Grades K-2 - 10-30 minutes
Grades 3-4 - 30-45 minutes
Grade 5 - Up to 60 minutes
Grade 6-8 - 60-90 minutes
Students should also read for 20 or more minutes per night, in addition to their homework assignments.
*These times are approximate. Individual student needs must be taken into consideration. We request that problems/concerns be communicated to the teacher.
Wednesday – no homework will be assigned on Wednesday to allow for family and church activities.
No homework will be assigned on the night of Open House or other school wide evening events.
MEDICATIONS top
Parents must fill out a medicine form in the school office when it becomes necessary for the child to receive medication during school hours. The student may NOT keep ANY medicine in the classroom whether it is prescription or over-the-counter (this includes sunscreen and cough drops.) The Student will be required to go to the school office to take the medicine. Medications will be administered at 12:00 noon and 3:00 P. M.
ORIENTATION top
First Baptist School will hold a parent orientation at the beginning of the school year to assist parents with policies and procedures of the school and classroom. At this time parents will meet with the individual teachers without students present.
PARTIES top
Birthdays may be acknowledged at school if the parent makes prior arrangements with the teacher. Presents will not be allowed. Invitations to parties may be passed out only if all children in the class are included. Summer birthdays may be acknowledged as well.
Birthdays are celebrated monthly by the school in the birthday room for Kindergarten through 5th grade students.
SAFETY PROGRAMS top
These programs are in place to help ensure the safety of our students:
Parents of preschool, pre-k, and kindergarten are required to walk their children to the classroom each morning. Parents will pick up these students at their classroom or Day Care.
Parents of School Only students will be required to pick up their children outside the classroom or at a designated Parent-Pickup location. For the safety of all First Baptist School students it is imperative that students are picked up in the assigned locations promptly. After 15 minutes your child will be taken to a Day Care room. A Day Care fee will be assessed after 3:15.
A fire drill is conducted regularly.
A “suspicious” stranger drill takes place when scheduled. The teacher locks the classroom door, and the children assemble in the corner of the room away from the window in the door and await the all-clear signal.
A “bad-weather” drill includes filing into the hall where there is no glass, sitting quietly with backs against the wall until the all clear is sounded. The teacher may be instructed to take the students to Elmore Hall. Parents will be required to pick up their child in Elmore Hall. In the case of “bad weather” emergencies, parent pick up will not take place. When picking up your child be sure to check him/her out with the teacher.
Shelter in Place lock down for chemical emergency. The school would be locked; windows shut and air conditioners turned off. Parents would not be allowed in the building until the all clear is given. This would only occur under an extreme condition and we ask for your full cooperation and understanding.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS top
Special programs will be presented throughout the academic year. These programs may include Award Assemblies, special Chapel presentations, Christmas Program, Science Fair, Sports Events, Spelling Bee and many others. Notices of these programs will be announced in the newsletters, monthly calendars and on the school website.
STANDARDIZED TESTING PROGRAM top
Students in first through fifth grades will be given a standardized achievement test each year in an effort to reveal progress or lack of progress. The results of these tests will be filed in the student’s individual permanent record files and copies of the evaluation are given to the parents.
STUDY TRIPS/FIELD TRIPS top
Study trips/field trips that enhance the curriculum will be scheduled by the teacher and cleared through the office. Signed permission notes will be required. Transportation will be provided by parent volunteers. Any parent who is driving must present a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance in the office. All volunteers must have a background check completed and on file at the school.
TARDY POLICY: top
The school day has a full schedule of classes for all children. The school day begins at 8:00 a. m. It is essential for students to arrive on time to begin their day. A student will be marked tardy at 8:05 a. m. Perfect attendance will be awarded to students who have been present every day and be tardy no more than 3 times in a grading period.
Consequences for unexcused tardiness (Student)
1st tardy – A note is sent to the parent from the teacher informing them of their child’s tardiness.
2nd tardy – Student will meet with principal to review the school rules and the need to be on time. A note is sent home to parents.
3rd tardy – A phone call from school to parent(s) to help resolve the problem.
Consequences for unexcused tardiness (Parent)
1st tardy – No consequence.
2nd tardy – Letter to parent(s) explaining tardy policy and importance of being on time.
3rd tardy – Phone call from school to parent(s) to help resolve the problem.
4th tardy – Conference with the principal.
5th tardy – Referral to School Attendance and Conduct Board.
TRAFFIC AND PARKING top
Please observe the “Handicapped Parking” areas. If you are ticketed by the police for a violation, there is a $$ fine assessed. DO NOT LEAVE VALUABLES, SUCH AS PURSES, IN YOUR VEHICLE OR YOUR ENGINE RUNNING WHILE YOU ENTER THE SCHOOL BUILDING. DO NOT LEAVE CHILDREN UNATTENDED IN VEHICLES IN THE PARKING LOT. Observe all safety rules. Follow the pattern for drop off and pick up as per the map. Refer back to Safety Programs sections A and B.
DAY CARE
State licensed day care is available from 7:00 to 6:00 p. m., Monday through Friday to all children enrolled in First Baptist School. A yearly calendar will be printed and available showing all school and day care holidays. Anyone, other than a parent or guardian, must sign the child out in the school office and present a note from the office to the day care teacher.
FIRST BAPTIST SCHOOL HONOR CHOIRS top
To be selected as a member of the Elementary or Middle School Choir, a student must be able to sing on pitch. Honor Choir students are expected to have exemplary behavior both during rehearsals and at performances, and to attend all rehearsals and performances. Behavior unbecoming of a student and/or one absence which is not excused will result in dismissal from the Choir.
All students must maintain passing grades of 70 or above to participate in any performances.
COMPUTERS
We are fortunate to provide the most current electronic resources for our students. With your permission, our class will be exploring the Internet to gather valuable information related to various topics throughout the year. Please note that we will not be visiting “chat rooms.” All of the Internet sites have been previewed and deemed suitable for young learners. Each Internet activity will be supervised by an adult. At no time will the students be allowed to have free access to the Internet. Signing the form at the front of this booklet signifies that you affirm this statement. Thank you for supporting our efforts to provide the most exciting educational opportunity for our students!
FINANCIAL INFORMATION top
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER
Change of address or telephone number must be reported to the office as soon as the change is made. It is important that the office records contain the correct information at all times. A school directory is available during the school year through the office.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Phone use is restricted to important situations such as canceled practice, missed rides, etc.
Students must have a pass from their teacher and permission from office staff in order to use the phone.
Pagers and cell phones will not be used in school at all.
PLEASE NOTE: Calling your child at school should be reserved for emergencies or matters of extreme importance.
FIRST BAPTIST SCHOOL
FUNDRAISER REPLACEMENT FEE top
First Baptist School collects a Fundraiser Replacement Fee in lieu of requiring families to participate in fundraisers. The Fundraiser Replacement Fee is collected on a monthly basis as part of tuition with sibling discounts given in the same manner that discounts are given for tuition. In an effort to provide monetary relief to families that cannot afford an extra $25.00 per month in addition to tuition or for families that would prefer to provide support for the school through volunteering, a sliding scale with volunteer hours versus the Fundraiser Replacement Fee is being implemented as follows:
For families with one child:
O $25 per month per child, 0 volunteer hours per month
O $15 per month per child, 1 ½ hours volunteer time per month
O $10 per month per child, 2 hours volunteer time per month
O $5 per month per child, 2 ½ hours volunteer time per month
O $0 per month per child, 3 hours volunteer time per month
For families with two children:
O $48.75 per month for 2 children, 0 volunteer hours per month
O $29.25 per month for 2 children, 2 hours, 45 minutes volunteer time per month
O $19.50 per month for 2 children, 3 hours, 45 minutes volunteer time per month
O $9.75 per month for 2 children, 4 hours, 45 minutes volunteer time per month
O $0 per month for 2 children, 5 hours, 45 minutes volunteer time per month
For families with three children:
O $72.50 per month for 3 children, 0 volunteer hours per month
O $43.50 per month for 3 children, 4 hours volunteer time per month
O $29.00 per month for 3 children, 5 ½ hours volunteer time per month
O $14.50 per month for 3 children, 7 hours volunteer time per month
O $0 per month for 3 children, 8 ½ hours volunteer time per month
For families with four children:
O $96.25 per month for 4 children, 0 volunteer hours per month
O $57.75 per month for 4 children, 5 ½ hours volunteer time per month
O $38.50 per month for 4 children, 7 ½ hours volunteer time per month
O $19.25 per month for 4 children, 9 ½ hours volunteer time per month
O $0 per month for 4 children, 11 ½ hours volunteer time per month
You must commit to the level of support that you will provide each month based on the sliding scale between the Fundraiser Replacement Fee and the volunteer hours described above. This level of support cannot be modified until enrollment the following academic year. An individualized volunteer orientation will be required of each family choosing a volunteer path in order to establish the volunteer plan for the upcoming year. Once your enrollment forms are received and processed, you will be contacted to set up a volunteer orientation. You will not be able to serve as a volunteer unless an approved First Baptist Church/School Volunteer Background Investigation Consent has been completed, which will be provided for completion at the time your volunteer plan is established.
Choose your level of support by marking the appropriate circle above. In addition, please complete the form below. If volunteer hours are selected in lieu of the fee, please provide contact information.
Name(s) of Responsible Party(ies): ________________________________________________
Signature of Responsible Party(ies): ________________________________________________
Date: __________________
Contact Information if volunteer hours are chosen above: Preferred Phone Number: ________________
Email Address (if you wish to be contacted by email): ________________________________
For additional details concerning the Fundraiser Replacement Fee, please refer to the Policies and Procedures Handbook.
INSURANCE top
All employees and children enrolled in First Baptist School are covered with accident insurance. The school pays for this insurance coverage.
OPERATION EXPENSES
Tuition, fees, and gifts shall defray all of the operating expenses of the school. A monthly fee is paid to the church to help defray overhead expenses such as custodial services and utilities. This fee is currently $8,850 per month, but is subject to change on a yearly basis. The church also charges the following expenses:
$75 per day for use of church van
The school’s portion of workman’s compensation
$550 monthly for use of the Recreation Center
Regular accounting services are rendered by an independent C.P.A. The school’s entire financial records are studied on an annual basis and these reports are on file in the school office.
TUITION (PUBLISHED IN THE BROCHURE)
TUITION DISCOUNTS top
Discounts will be available to First Baptist Church Professional Staff Members
Discounts will be given to First Baptist School full time employees
Discounts will be given to First Baptist Church members (child, parent/parents, who are members; this does NOT include members of Sunday School only).
Discounts for multiple children.
First child – full rate
Each child after the first receives a 5% discount
Neither credit nor refund is granted for a child’s absence from school. In every case of withdrawal, tuition is payable to the end of the month in which the child is withdrawn. Tuition is due on the first of every month. If tuition is not paid by 6:00 p. m on the 10th of the month, a $20 late fee will be assessed. If the balance of the tuition is not paid by the 20th of the month, the parent will be called and the child will have to be picked up and cannot attend school until the balance has been paid. Balances not paid within two months will be turned over to a collection agency. There will be a $20.00 returned check fee as well as any late fees that occur.
LATE FEES
A late charge of $1.00 per minute is charged for children who are not picked up from the day care by 6:00 p. m. according to the school clock. In the event the child is not picked up by 7:00 p. m., the school has not been contacted by anyone eligible to pick up the child, and the school has been unable to contact anyone on the “emergency call” list, the police will be called and Child Welfare will be contacted.
PERSONNEL POLICIES top
FIRST BAPTIST SCHOOL IS ACCREDITED UNDER THE ACCREDITATOIN COMMISSION OF THE TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BAPTIST SCHOOLS AND IS ON THE APPROVED LIST OF THE TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY.
Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) top
The PTO is a parent teacher organization designed to enhance the operation of the school. All parents and teachers are encouraged to become members of this organization. Membership for the PTO is open to all.
Teacher Appreciation Day: This is a day set aside to say thanks to the faculty and staff. A sit-down luncheon is served and volunteers are needed to bake desserts, proctor classes, setup, serve and clean up.
Teacher Birthdays: Once per month, breakfast, snack or dessert items are provided in the teacher lounge for all staff (to serve approx. 50). Examples: donuts, cookies, Chex Mix, Fruit Tray, etc.
After School/Day Care: Assist in after school/day care by volunteering time; sponsor a reading time, math activity, art project, etc. with approval of Day Care Director
School Publicity under the Direction of School Administration
It is important to keep our school's name and excellent reputation in the public through press releases and phone calls to the media. We can always use help from parent volunteers who are familiar with public relations or who are simply outgoing and willing to fax press releases and make telephone calls.
Classroom Teachers Substitution and Assistance
We are always looking for qualified, caring parents to volunteer to spend time in the classroom assisting the teachers or, in some cases, substituting for a limited period of time.
WHAT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE APPROPRIATE VOLUNTEER HOURS?
Class Parties, Watching Your Student Play a Sport, etc.
CAN A PARENT EARN THEIR VOLUNTEER HOURS IN ADVANCE?
Yes, the parent does not have to provide the set hours each month. The hours can be provided in advance based on the family’s volunteer plan that will be established at the beginning of the academic school year.
WHAT ABOUT EMERGENCIES AND UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES?
If at times, due to extenuating circumstances a parent cannot meet the required volunteer hours in any given month, this time will be forwarded to the next month and must be fulfilled. These arrangements must be made in advance with the PTO with the exception of immediate emergencies which should be communicated as soon as possible.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE top
The School Committee is nominated by the church nominating committee and elected by the church membership. The School committee shall consist of nine members and operate on a three year rotation basis. The school principal shall be an ex-officio member of the School Committee. The committee shall follow the policies of the church in the administration of the school. In discharging its responsibilities, the School committee shall perform the following duties:
Determine policies and procedures for operating and administering the program
See that the school program complies with legal and licensing requirements
Organize efforts to inform church members about school program activities
Review reports and records to insure proper operation
Make regular reports to the church or approval and awareness.
Coordinate and work with other committees and groups in managing the activities and affairs of the weekday program.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS top
First Baptist School recognizes that the very heart of its instructional program can be found in the teacher. The teacher must be a professing Christian dedicated to the task of Christian education. It is understood that all kindergarten and grade teachers will have an appropriate degree and certification.
EMPLOYMENT OF PERSONNEL
The school personnel will be hired by the principal; with the approval of the School Committee. Applicants will be screened by a personal interview with the Principal and Day Care Director. Upon the completion of a written application form an applicant will be considered for employment. The School Principal will recommend the faculty and staff to the School committee.
IF I DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER, WHERE AM I NEEDED? top
Hot Lunch Server (if Food Handler’s permit has been obtained)
Lunchroom Monitors (2 needed each day year round – when school is in session and when just daycare is open)
Student drop off/student pick up/parking lot safety patrol
Library Assistance
Book Fair Assistant
Assistance with Student Field Days
Eye and Hearing Tests
Maintaining Garden Areas Around School (weeding, planting, mulching)
Assist with Ministries and Service Projects for Children including Coat Drives, Book Drive, Visiting a Retirement Facility, Food Pantry or create a service project for your child’s grade level with approval from school administration
Playground Maintenance as needed
Box Tops Prize Patrol
Christmas Program
Sporting Events: Scorekeepers, timers, ticket takers and concession workers are needed.
Sharing special interests or talents with a class when these relate to units being studied
(must be approved by teacher and principal)
Production of the annual yearbook
Assisting with Sponsoring After-school Clubs including, but not limited to Spanish Club, Math Club, Science Club, Cheerleading, Kids for Christ, etc.
Various Office Help