2017-2018
BONNEY LAKE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
8201 Locust Avenue East, Bonney Lake, WA 98391
Phone: (253) 863-3076; (253) 507-0235
Parent / Student Handbook
(Last updated April 2017)
Table of Contents
2017-2018 Welcome 1
Susan Kobes, Ph.D.Introduction 1
Vision 2
Mission 2
Statement of Faith 3
Affiliations 4
Board of Directors 5
Administration 5
Policies and Procedures 6
School Hours 6
Emergency Procedures 6
Inclement Weather 6
Disaster Plan 6
Transportation 7
Visitors 7
Lunch 8
Finances 8
Tuition 8
Fundraising 9
Admissions 9
Kindergarten 10
Learning Disabilities 10
Promotion 10
Non-Discrimination Statement 11
Attendance Policy 11
Medications 12
Immunizations 12
Behavioral Expectations 12
General Guidelines 12
Discipline 13
Grievance Procedures 15
Uniform Standards 15
Academics 17
Acceptable Use Policy 18
Philosophy of Education 18
Homework Expectations 21
2017-2018 School Calendar 22
Shop online 24
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2017-2018 Welcome
Welcome to Bonney Lake Christian Academy in its third year of educating and training children to the glory of God. We praise God for the academic successes we have seen and the students we have nurtured in the Truth of God’s word.
We are approved by Washington State Department of Education. While we meet the requirements of such things as safety, certification, and clock hours, our vision and mission emerge from a classical and Christian worldview. Our vision of academic excellence is a familiar term used often by many educational organizations, but much less often achieved. Our staff and Board are dedicated to excellence, and are committed to serving Jesus Christ in bringing all Truth to our students. Also essential is maintaining affordable tuition and scholarships. This has been a priority in planning and decision-making from the beginning. It is not just a start-up strategy, but a long-term objective. In fact, our tuition will remain the same for 2017-2018 as it has been for the past two years.
We enthusiastically encourage you to participate in the educational process throughout the year. We greatly value the participation and contributions of time, talent, and treasure of parents, grandparents, and communities. Thank you for trusting us with your children, as we teach and train them to the glory of God.
Susan Kobes, Ph.D.
Introduction
Bonney Lake Christian Academy partners with families in the sacred task of training children in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6). We adhere to the truth that it is the family which has the primary responsibility for the training and raising of children, and we consider it a privilege to join you in this mission.
This handbook is a guide to the rules and procedures that are important to a quality educational environment. We seek to teach every child in the best way we know how each day, providing them a strong educational background, doing all to the glory of God. We proclaim Jesus Christ in all aspects and instruction at BLCA, emphasizing academic excellence from a Christian worldview perspective, where we take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Vision
The ultimate goal of Bonney Lake Christian Academy is not the mere transfer of ideas but the training up of godly young men and women with renewed minds who think clearly with discernment (Romans 12:1-2), and who possess servant hearts (Philippians 2:5-8).
Mission
We partner with parents and churches in educating and training children in the knowledge, understanding, and wisdom that come from God, in a safe, loving, and rigorous teaching environment that is:
B Biblically-based: students and staff think and act Biblically, viewing all of life from the perspective of a Christian worldview,
L Lovingly-shared: in joyful submission to the Lord Jesus Christ, developing disciples with a focus on Christian character
C Christ-centered: and for his glory,
A Academic-excellence: excellence is pursued by everyone in the BLCA community, in all activities and circumstances.
Statement of Faith
About God: God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three personalities: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God.
About Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return someday to earth to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
About the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, we seek to live under His control daily.
About the Bible: The Bible is God’s Word to us. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the only source of absolute truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture of error.
About human beings: People are made in the spiritual image of God to be like Him in character. People are the supreme object of God’s creation. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by the attitude of disobedience toward God called sin. This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life.
About salvation: Salvation is God’s free gift to us, but we must accept it. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God’s offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin’s penalty. When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith, we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into one’s life by faith.
Affiliations
Bonney Lake Christian Academy has been approved by the Washington State Board of Education, and is involved with the process of applying for accreditation through the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). We coordinate with the Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS) for professional development and curricular enrichment.
Board of Directors
Anthony Cathey (Director) 253.863.3076
Kelly Ghormley (President) 253.222.4428
Susan Kobes (Secretary) 253.507.0235
Dwain Mountford (Treasurer) 253.551.6594
Meetings are held at 7:30 AM on the second Saturday of the month. Meetings are open to visitors. As a courtesy, please let a board member know if you plan to attend. If a visitor has an item for the agenda, please advise a board member in advance. Due to the sensitive nature of some agenda items, an executive session may be scheduled following and is closed to visitors.
Administration
Susan Kobes 253.507.0235
Policies and Procedures
School Hours
Kindergarten 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM
1st through 8th 8:30 AM to 2:45 PM
Extended Day Care can be made available 6:45 to 8:15 AM and 2:45 to 5 PM.
Students may enter their classrooms at 8:15 to prepare for their day, complete homework, or read. Please do not leave your student unsupervised.
Emergency Procedures
Inclement Weather
BLCA will close for inclement weather when Sumner School District closes its’ schools. If special circumstances warrant closing the school, each parent will personally receive a text message. If parents believe road conditions are too hazardous, they should keep their children home, and an excused absence will be recorded.
Disaster Plan
We recognize that the spiritual, emotional, and physical safety of our students is our most important responsibility. We have outlined specific procedures in our Emergency and Disaster Plan that include possible emergency scenarios. Our plan is a cooperative effort between the on-site response team and local governmental authorities. The Principal, or his designee, is the Site emergency Coordinator. We practice emergency protocols during drills to teach the students to be prepared. In the event of an emergency, parents will be contacted by text and email with basic information regarding where to go and what to do. Parents are urged to keep contact information updated with the office.
Students should not bring cell phones to school. For routine issues, parents may call the office to relay a message to a student in class. (253) 863-3076 or (253) 507-0235
Transportation
When dropping off students, please enter the parking lot through the entrance farthest from Veteran’s Memorial Drive, and exit out the other end of the parking lot, observing a 5 mph speed limit. Please do not drop students on the far side of the road. In the event that someone other than those designated on the Safety Form needs to pick up a child, a note from the parent should be sent to the office, or a call should be made to the office by the parent/guardian of record.
Visitors
All individuals, other than registered students and church/school staff, must check-in at the school office. Arrangements can be made to observe a classroom in session. We strive to teach the best way we know how every day and welcome your interest and participation. Additionally, we desire to honor the work of the classroom teacher in providing notice of changes to the routine.
Lunch
Students will bring a lunch to school. A microwave will be available. Special commercial, hot-lunch options will be provided at a reasonable price throughout the year, such as for Pizza Friday.
Finances
Tuition
The vision of BLCA is to provide an excellent educational experience for the most affordable tuition. Tuition may be paid in advance for the year, or paid monthly, August through May. Registration and Curriculum fees are due by July 1, 2017 or at the time of enrollment.
2016-2017 Tuition (1-7) $5,400 (Kindergarten $2,700)
Registration (non-refundable) $150.* (due at registration)
Elementary Curriculum $345. (K $238)
Middle Grades Curriculum $745.
(Curriculum fee due by June 30, 2017)
Accounts more than 45 days past due may result in the student being suspended from school. Report cards will be held and requests for transcripts/transfer of records will not be honored until the account is paid. Students will not be re-enrolled if tuition is past due.
It is crucial and right for staff to receive their salary at the promised time. Retaining qualified teachers and meeting monthly expenses requires attention to this task of fiscal responsibility. Your understanding of this and that BLCA has no financial reserves at this point is greatly appreciated.
July 14, 2017 is the last day to register. The arrival of curriculum cannot be guaranteed after that date. We are pleased to continue to enroll students after that time if there is room in the classroom; Additional copy expenses ($.25/page) while waiting for the student’s curriculum will be added to the cost of curriculum
* If a student’s enrollment is not accepted, the registration fee will be refunded, and curriculum will be returned if possible, and if not, it will be given to the student.
Fundraising
BLCA conducts one fund raising event. Your support is needed and greatly appreciated. Our fundraisers have been in support of developing a playground for the first two years. Contact the principal if you have any questions about fundraising.
Admissions
BLCA is open to every family who feels called here; is willing to abide by the expectations and rules; and desires an education where Truth is taught through a Christian worldview in all classes. We believe that the power of God changes lives, and we teach and guide children in light of God’s Word to the glory of His Son, Jesus Christ.
Because BLCA is a partner with the family in the training and education of children, clear communication is essential. This process begins with the submission of the application and includes an interview with the student and family. The child must qualify academically and agree to abide by the school’s rules. Behavior contrary to this will forfeit the student’s privilege to attend.
Kindergarten
Ø Mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual maturity consistent with the program.
Ø Attention span
Ø Self-control
Ø Ability to work in a classroom setting
Ø Ability to learn from a non-parent
Ø Parental support for student training.
The minimum age for Kindergarten is 5-years-old by September 1 of the enrollment year.
Learning Disabilities
BLCA does not have adequate staff, funding, or facilities to enroll children with severe learning disabilities. Children with a learning disability will be required to meet the same academic standards as all other children in their grade level and be given as much individual instruction and encouragement as their classmates.
Promotion
It is the promotion policy of BLCA to promote students after they have mastered the key elements of their current grade level. The student must earn at least a C (70%) grade in each subject in at least three out of four quarters of the current school year. A student failing any of the core courses in two or more quarters of the current school year will generally be retained at the current grade level.
Non-Discrimination Statement
BLCA admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate of the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
It is required that all administration, staff, and board members subscribe to the statement of faith.
Attendance Policy
All students are expected to be regular and punctual in attendance. Absences will be excused for illness, medical/dental needs, bereavement, emergency, or if the parent has advised the administration of a planned absence. Students will not receive participation credit for planned or unexcused absences. Missing work from excused absences will not be accepted after the last day of the quarter.