TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome_______________________________________________________________________2
Philosophy_____________________________________________________________________3
Board of Directors______________________________________________________________3
PAT CLUB_____________________________________________________________________4
School Attendance______________________________________________________________4
Exused vs. Unexcused Absences_________________________________________________4
Make-up Work__________________________________________________________________5
Tardies________________________________________________________________________5
Early Check-out_________________________________________________________________5
Academics Awards_______________________________________________________________6
Promotions and Retention________________________________________________________6
Afterschool Program_____________________________________________________________6
Christian Activities_______________________________________________________________7
Citizenship and Conduct__________________________________________________________7
Parent Teacher Conferences______________________________________________________7
Discipline_______________________________________________________________________8
Dress Code_____________________________________________________________________9
Electronic Devices_______________________________________________________________10
Gum____________________________________________________________________________10
Field Trips_______________________________________________________________________10
Homework_______________________________________________________________________10
Illness and Injury__________________________________________________________________10
Library___________________________________________________________________________11
Lost and Found___________________________________________________________________11
Lunch___________________________________________________________________________11
Office and Telephone Use__________________________________________________________11
Student Drop-off and Pick-up_______________________________________________________12
School Hours/Early Arrivals_________________________________________________________12
Physical Education_________________________________________________________________13
General Information________________________________________________________________13
Middle School Sponsored Social Activities____________________________________________14
Sports___________________________________________________________________________15
Scheduling of Athletic Games_______________________________________________________16
Reserved Right___________________________________________________________________16
Conflict Resolution________________________________________________________________16
Internet Acceptable Use Agreement__________________________________________________17
School Calendar___________________________________________________________________18
Lunch Menu_______________________________________________________________________19
Madison Academy Volunteer Drive Agreement _________________________________________20,21
Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form/Spanking Form______________________________22
Page 1
Madison Academy
2009-2010
Student Handbook
Dear Parents,
As Head of MADISON ACADEMY, welcome to all of you. By selecting MADISON ACADEMY and independent education, you are providing your child with an academic environment that is geared to achievement and success, one that has been providing outstanding education since 1968.
Our primary goal is to provide for the continual development of all facets of the child: academic, emotional, spiritual, physical, and social. Small group instruction by dedicated, highly qualified, loving teachers allows each student to achieve his/her full potential in a secure, Christian atmosphere.
We appreciate your entrusting your child to our care; however, it is our belief that a three-way responsibility exists among the school, the parent(s), and the student, if the student is to experience maximum success. Please carefully read this handbook that describes our policies and activities. Read it with your child to make it a family learning experience. We ask that you assume the following responsibilities:
1. Have a thorough knowledge of MADISON ACADEMY'S philosophy and policies.
2. Support and abide by the philosophy and policies.
3. Provide motivation at home by establishing a quiet area for study and regular study time (students can help plan this), by showing an interest in school and class activities, and by talking regularly with your child about interests, problems, and assignments.
4. Participate as much as possible in class and school activities. This will give him/her a good attitude toward school. Because you show your interest, it will stimulate your child's interest and enthusiasm.
5. Confer periodically with your child's teachers concerning academic progress and conduct.
6. Speak positively about teachers and the school in the presence of your child. Negative remarks affect children!
7. Communicate directly with the teacher if there are problelms concerning your child. If necessary, then you may consult the Head.
8. Become involved in the Parents' and Teachers' Club (PAT) as a means of becoming acquainted with other parents and teachers in the common support of MADISON ACADEMY, take the Panther Pride Challenge and volunteer.
Thank you, again, for sharing your child and being a part of our MADISON ACADEMY family. We welcome your suggestions, comments, and concerns at any time.
Sincerely,
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Student Handbook
Janna Barrs -Head of School
PHILOSOPHY OF MADISON ACADEMY
The purpose of MADISON ACADEMY is to provide an academic program in a Christian atmosphere that fosters a feeling of personal worth in each child. It considers each student as an individual personality and attempts to develop that student mentally, morally, culturally, and physically in accordance with his individual abilities and limitations. It is our aim to encourage an attitude in students that exemplifies self-discipline, respect of authority, and consideration of others, thus creating an environment conductive to learning and good citizenship.
OBJECTIVES
PROVIDE the curriculum, faculty, and physical environment, that will stimulate and promote learning;
DEVELOP a consciousness of moral and ethical values as a basis for making choices and decisions;
STIMULATE and develop the ability to read and listen with understanding and discrimination;
DEVELOP the ability to think critically and logically, to define problems, to interpret information, and to execute wise decisions;
PROMOTE the use of technology in today's changing world;
FOSTER a positive attitude in students which will help them to see themselves as valuable citizens of their school, their country, and their world and to accept the responsibilities of citizenship; and
ENCOURAGE deep genuine religious attitudes in keeping with the American traditions of respect for religious values and freedom of religion.
NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY AND ACCREDITATION - MADISON ACADEMY admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies or any other school-administered programs. MADISON ACADEMY is fully accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors is the policy-making body of MADISON ACADEMY and no other individual or group has the authority to set or change any policy. The Head has the responsibility of carrying out Board policies.
The Board of Directors retains the privilege to make changes, amendments, and corrections as they see the need, of the rules and policies of the school, at any time with or without prior notice.
Any parent who feels there is a problem or concern that needs to be addressed, should present his/her views to the teacher, the Head, and then a Board member, in that order.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS - 2009-2010
Justin Davis - President
Gina Rutherford Mark Browning
Tracey Platt Carmen Vasquez
Roderick Shaw Melanie Crosby
Glenn Frith
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Student Handbook
PARENTS' AND TEACHERS' (P.A.T.) CLUB
An important part of Madison Academy is the "family" environment that enables the students to feel secure while they are learning. This includes the involvement of parents, teachers, and students. The P.A.T. Club provides an opportunity to participate in school acitivities and projects to achieve this goal. All parents are strongly encouraged to participate. Participation in fundraising activities is necessary to help cover the general operating expenses, to keep tuition at the lowest possible rate, and to provide amenities that we would otherwise not be able to afford. All families are automatically members of the P.A.T. Club.
P.A.T. CLUB OFFICERS
The new PAT Club officers for the upcoming year are Annette Johnson, Chandra Smith, Brenda Nitchke, and Jennifer Browning.
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
A student's academic progress is directly impacted by school attendance. Determination of whether an absence is excused or unexcused is made using the criteria outlined in this Handbook. Parents will be notified when a student has accumulated 10 absences. When the student reaches 15 absences, the parent will again be contacted and asked to schedule a conference with the School Head.
Students, in grades 1st thru 8th grade, missing more than 20 days are in jeopardy of being retained. If a parent/student feels that their child should be promoted, they will need to make a formal written appeal to the Head of school within 5 days of the end of the school year. The Head of school will meet with the parents and team of teachers for that grade level; together they will make a decision regarding the promotion or retention of the student. If a parent is still not in agreement with the decision, the parent can appeal the decision to the Board of Directors. When a student is absent, a note of explanation is to be sent to the student's teachers the first day following the absence.
EXCUSED vs UNEXCUSED
Excused absences are automatically granted for illness, death in the family, or unavoidable medical or dental appointments. Work covered during the absence may be made up by arrangement with the teacher. This excused absence will still be marked as an absence for attendance purposes. Medical or dental appointments require a note from the parent prior to the day of the appointment.
When a student is absent for unavoidable reasons (an excused absence), the teacher will take the responsibility for helping the student and will make every effort to help the student learn the material. Full responsibility for getting work made up will rest upon the student, but the teacher will work with him/her as needed. Parents may call the school to arrange to pick up the schoolwork while their child is sick; however, teachers will not be able to have the work ready until 2:35. Usually, it is left in the front office.
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GUIDELINES FOR MAKE-UP WORK FOR UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
1. All already announced tests and quizzes will be made up immediately upon return. The student should be prepared on the first day back unless the teacher indicates otherwise in advance.
2. All projects and reports already assigned are due as assigned. If due during time of absence they will be turned in immediately upon return unless the teacher indicates otherwise in advance.
3. Other work missed will be assigned upon return with time limits determined by the teacher.
4. The student will be expected to keep up with current assignments while making up missed work.
5. The teacher will decide when missed tests, quizzes, reports, etc. will be made up, whether during school hours of after school.
6. Work assigned will be graded. If no note is sent, work may not be made up, and O's will be given.
When a student is absent for avoidable reasons (unexcused absence), the responsibility for helping the student learn and complete the work missed will rest solely upon the parents and student. The teacher will not be obligated to give additional help or to make special effordts to help the student catch up with work missed. Such absences, expecially those of several days often put a buden upon the teacher and upon her plans for the whole class. They also jeopardize the progress of the student, often adding great stress upon the return to class.
Make-up work is the student's responsibility. Teachers have many assignments to check and cannot be expected to remind students to hand in make-up work. After an absence, it is helpful for the parent to remind the student about the work to be made up. Do not hesitate to ask the teacher if all has been turned. Time limits for making up work will be left to the discretion of the teacher.
TARDINESS
Punctuality is essential. Since the regular school day begins promptly at 8:00 a.m., students should arrive no later than 8:00. Anyone arriving after 8:00 will be considered tardy. Students who receive more than 3 unexcused tardies in a six week period shall be sent home for the day with zeros given in each subject area. Few tardies will be considered excused. Car trouble and unavoidable appointments will be excused.
FOR ATTENDANCE AWARDS:
Two unexcused tardies will be counted as one day absent and prevent the student from receiving the perfect attendance award.
EARLY CHECKOUTS
At times, students must have appointments, which make leaving school necessary. Please keep these to a minimum. At such times, the student must bring a note stating the time he will leave. Students must check out in the office so our records can be kept accurate. If a student returns
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before the end of school, he/she must check in at the office. A notebook is kept on the desk for signing out and signing in.
ACADEMICS AWARDS
HONOR ROLL - Grades 4- 8: All students who have no grade lower than a B and a citizenship mark not lower than S- will be on the Honor Roll each six weeks. Students with all A's and a citizenship mark not lower than an S- will be on the All "A" Honor Roll.
Year End Academic Honors: Grade 4 8: Students with year-end averages of A or B in each subject will receive and award.
Valedictorian will be the graduating student with the highest overall average for grades 6- 8. The Student must have attended Madison Academy for grades 7 and 8.
Salutatorian will be the graduating student with the second highest overall average for grades 6-8. The student must have attended Madison Academy for grades 7 and 8.
Honor Graduates will be all graduating students who meet both of the following criteria:
1. All A's and/or B's for grades 6-8 (year-end avg.)
2. An overall 90 average for grades 6-8.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
Students are promoted or retained on the basis of their overall performance and standardized test scores during the school year. The decision to retain is never made hastily and is always made in the best interest of the student. The general policy is as follows; Students in grades K-3 who are not on a satisfactory level in reading and/or math will be retained. For a student in grades 4-8 to be promoted to the next grade, he/she must have a 1.5 GPA and no grade lower than D (65) for the yearly average.
All promotions and retentions are subject to administrative approval. Students needing to be retained may attend Madison Academy if the administration feels that another year in the same grade at Madison Academy would be beneficial to that student and the upcoming class is not full. Students who have already been retained, whether at Madison Academy or another school, may not be retained again and remain at Madison Academy. At times, by mutual consent of parents, teachers, and the Head, the decision to retain a child may be made even if the child is doing passable work.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM / LATE PICK UP
The school does provide an After School Program for the convenience of parents who cannot pick up students at the 2:35 p.m. bell. For those who need to pick up their children regularly after 2:50, arrangements need to be made with the school. Those students will go directly to the Art room or the 4K classroom, depending upon the age of the child, at 2:35. They may participate in After School activities.
All persons picking up students from the After School Program must tell the person in charge when the student leaves. This is essential. Students participating in the After School Program must be picked up by 5:30. Parents picking up students after 5:30 will be charged $5.00 for every ten (10) minutes (or portion thereof) that they are late.
Students who usually are picked up in the front of the school at the 2:35 dismissal will be sent to the age appropriate after school room after 2:50 to wait for their rides. Any of these students
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not picked up by 3:00 will be charged the hourly rate with a $5.00 minimum charge. The person picking up must tell the After School Director when the student leaves.
All After School Program fees are considered Child Care and can be used for the Child Care Deduction on tax returns.
CHRISTIAN ACTIVITIES
In keeping with the school philosophy and objectives, the school provides regular Christian activities. Each class has daily Bible readinsgs and devotions; music includes Christian songs. Other activities include chapel programs each six weeks and other special occasions.
CITIZENSHIP AND CONDUCT
Good conduct and citizenship will be expected at all times of all students in classrooms, on the playground, on field trips, and at all events sponsored by the school. Every effort will be made to teach students proper citizenship and conduct. Citizenship will be evaluated each grading period on the report card. Parents are urged to talk with teachers whenever they wish to discuss their child's conduct or about any problems relating to the conduct or citizenship in class.
For students in grades 6-8, an overall General Citizenship mark will be earned in addition to one in each academic and non-academic class. Each student will earn a mark between S and U, which will incorporate a combination of class and non-class citizenship. Non-class times are considered before school, between classes, lunch, after school, homeroom, etc. This mark will include serious class offenses as determined by all of his/her teachers. For violations of rules, teachers will keep a journal of student offenses, which will be used in determining the overall General Citizenship mark. At the discretion of a teacher and/or the Head, greater penalty can be given for serious offenses.
PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES AND TELEPHONE CALLS
Should you need to contact your child's teacher for any reason, please call the school any time during the day and your message will be given to that teacher. The teacher will return your call as soon as possible. Please avoid calling teachers at home since the records are kept at school, and she may not have the information you need. Also, she needs the time at home with her family.
If you need a conference, please call the office and one will be scheduled. Teachers have playground duty, faculty meetings, and other conferences after school and are not available for conferences each day. By calling, you and the teacher can arrange a time convenient for both of you.
School begins promptly at 8:00. Please do not plan to visit with a teacher before school, as his/her class will be waiting for him/her when the bell rings. Prior to the bell, he/she needs time to prepare for his/her busy day.
Do not hesitate to talk with your child's teacher whenever you become aware of a problem. A delay can make the problem more difficult to solve. Please call to schedule a conference.
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DISCIPLINARY MEASURES
As stated before, good conduct is expected of all students. Students who display inappropriate behavior will be disciplined by their teacher or the Head/Assistant Head (a///a Administration). Major violations will be handled by the Administration and suitable punishment will be administered. If a student fails to comply with the school policies and standards at school or at any school activity, the following measures will be taken:
A. If the student is in grades 3K-4, he/she will be sent to the Head/Assistant Head for fighting, bad language, or repeated misbehavior. The Administration will deal with each situation on an individual basis in an effort to help the student learn responsibility for his/her actions and to control those actions acceptable. In cases of frequent visits to the office, spankings may be given (with consent of parents) and/or parents called.
B. If the student is in grades 5-8, he/she will be sent to the Head/Assistant Head for the same reasons as stated before. Every effort will be made to help the student learn to behave responsibly. However, less leniency will be given for those older students. Generally, the following guidelines will prevail:
1st offense - Warning from office and call the parent.
2nd offense- Parents called for conference and student paddled or suspended.
3rd offense- Student suspended for a set number of days.
Use of tobacco or other unacceptable practices will result in 3 days suspensions followed by afternoon detentions fro 5 days.
The Student will receive zeros (0's) on all work missed durintg the time of suspension.
C. CHEATING - Because one of our goals is to instill and uphold Christian values and morals, cheating in any form will not be tolerated. The following policy will be followed:
1st offense - student will receive a zero (0) on the work, a note will be sent home asking the parent(s) to call or see the teacher before class the next day; the Head will be notified.
2nd offense - student will receive a zero (0) on work, will be sent to the Head, and the Head will call parent(s).
3rd offense - student will receive a zero (0) on the work, parent(s) will be called to come get the student from school for a two-day suspension with zeros (0's) in every class every day. No work will be made up.
DISMISSAL OF STUDENT
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In accordance with the philosophy and objectives of Madison Academy, a student may be asked to withdraw from school due to academic and/or behavioral problems. Dismissal may also occur due to non-payment.
DRESS CODE
Elementary School 3K-3rd Boys and Girls: Children in these grades should dress for comfort during play. Shorts and pants with an elastic waistband are recommended for children in 3K through 3rd grade. No cut-off shorts and no holes in pants or shorts. No slogan across the seat of pants is permitted. Form-fitting clothing is not permitted. Mid-riff area and undergarments will be covered at all times. No spaghetti straps or tank tops. Shorts under dresses and full shorts under skorts are required. Properly fastened tennis shoes are required at all times. Shirt shall not have offensive slogans, phrases, pictures or symbols.
Middle School 4th-8th Boys and Girls: As with lower grades, 4th through 8th grade students will not wear form-fitting clothing that exposes the mid-riff area or exposes undergarments.
Acceptable clothing is listed below.
Shirts: Students will wear polo or t-shsirts of uniform length (see Madison Academy t-shirt for reference). No slogans, pictures, or phrases. Shirts must remain tucked into the pants at all times.
Pants and Shorts: Students will wear jeans, pants, or capris that fasten with a button or zipper and/or buttons. Jean or Bermuda length shorts (7" or less from the floor when kneeling) that fasten with a button or zipper and/or buttons are acceptable. Pants and shorts must fit properly and be neither oversized nor form fitting. Pants or shorts with elastic waistbands, such as sports shorts or jogging pants, are not permitted. No cut-off shorts and no holes in pants or shorts. Belts must be worn at all times.
Shoes: Students are required to wear properly fastened tennis shoes at all times.
Hair: Hair color and/or style should not be a distraction to the student or others. Hair should be neat, clean, and out of eyes.
Dress Code Violations 3K-8th Boys and Girls: Any student that is in violation of the Madison Academy Dress Code will be disciplined.
First violation, student will be sent to the office and issued a dress code violation form that must be signed by the parent and returned.
Second violation, the parents will be contacted and required to bring appropriate clothing for the student to change and forewarned of the consequence of the third offense.
Third dress code violation, the student will be sent home for the day and a zero will be given in each subject area.
The administration will make the final decision on any questionable garments or styles including those worn at all school functions, activities and school sanctioned athletic events.
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ELECTRONIC DEVICES;
IPODS, Cell phones, and electronic games, etc. Students should not have electronic devises during school hours.
1. First offense - parent call
2. Student loss of device for 10 days (kept by office)
3. Student loss of device 20 days (kept by office)
GUM
There will be no gum chewing by students or adults at Madison Academy or at school sponsored events.
FIELD TRIPS
All grade levels take advantage of the numerous intellectual, cultural, and historical opportunities in the North Florida/South Georgia area. Field trips are planned to coincide with and enhance the regular curriculum and are an important part of the class program. For this reason, students are expected to attend. When a student does not attend a field trip, the teacher may assign activities in lieu of the field trip. Students are required to submit a permission slip signed by a parent before being allowed to go on a field trip. Only the students who are in the class will be allowed to attend the field trip (no siblings even if the parent drives).
HOMEWORK
Homework is an important part of each student's educational progress. All homework is checked. Students are required to hand in all homework promptly in order that they can receive the full benefit of the day's lesson. Each teacher has his/her own policy concerning homework. Parents should certainly help when necessary, especially to help understand directions, but the student should be made aware that homework is his responsibility. It is advisable to set up a regular homework time and place to study. Students can help in these decisions.
ILLNESS / INJURY
Students must stay home when ill. If a student becomes ill while as school, the parents will be called. If a student becomes seriously injured at school, he/she will be taken immediately to the emergency room of the Madison Hospital. Parents will be notified immediately.
If the student has a health problem which does not require absence from school, the school must be notified. The school may not administer medication to a student without the written approval of the parent. If your child needs to take medicine during the school day, the medicineand the written permission must be given to the teacher immediately upon arrival at school. A form may be kept on file allowing topical ointments, etc., to be applied to your child.
If your child has a fever exceeding 100 degrees, he/she must remain at home until the fever has been down for at least 24 hours. Sending a child to school not only puts the child at a disadvantage in her health and school work, but often spreads an illness to others. When
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checking your child's temperature to determine if he has 100 degrees of fever, make sure he has not taken any medication such as Aspirin, Tylenol or Motrin, which reduces fever.
LIBRARY
All students in grades 1st-8th will be encouraged to check out books from our library. Parents of students in 3K-5K may check out books for their children.
Notices will be sent to students with overdue books. Report cards will not be issued to any student who has an overdue book unless he has made arrangements with the Librarian.
In order to keep reference books available for all students, special rules have been set for their use and will be explained to students each year. Failure to follow the rules may result in fines.
LOST AND FOUND
A box is kept in the Activity Building for personal items found on the grounds. If a name is on the item, it will be returned to the owner. All unclaimed items that are not picked up by the end of the school year will be given to a charitable organization. Parents and students may check the Lost and Found box any time.
LUNCHES
Students may either bring a lunch from home or purchase one of the items offered each day at school. Students bringing lunches from home should have them when they arrive in the morning. In cases when the lunch has been left at home, parents may bring it to the office where the student will get it at lunchtime. Students should not have lunches from fast food restaurants delivered to school. A list of lunch items and prices will be sent home the first day of school each year. Items ordered will be recorded and billed monthly. If a student forgets to order lunch, that student will be served a lunch bucket and drink from the office. The charged lunch will be billed at the end of the month.
Milk or orange juice may be purchased at school. Students in grades 3K-3rd will receive white milk. Students in grades 4-8 may have a choice of white or chocolate milk. Beverages brought from home should be nutritious. Do not send carbonated drinks or tea.
Planning with the student should result in a nutritious lunch that he/she will eat. Avoid sending too much as sharing is not permitted except in very special cases when a child brings something for the whole class. The rules against sharing food are for health reasons.
OFFICE AND TELEPHONE USE
Students may use the office for official business only. Students are to walk around the outside of the building to get to the classroom.
The office telephone may be used only with permission and in case of necessity. Calling for forgotten homework or to make plans for after school friends to come over are not necessities. Students must have a permission slip from the teacher before using the phone.
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STUDENT DROP OFF AND PICK-UP
Safety is a top priority at Madison Academy. Safety is more important than the driver's need to hurry and leave. The following arrival and departure rules are a must for all drivers to follow. Please share this information with everyone (grandparents, older siblings, neighbors, etc.) responsible for driving your child to and from school.
Morning arrival is from 7:30 until 8:00. Drivers who do not follow the morning arrival guidelines as specified in this handbook may receive written warnings from the administration.
Afternoon departure is more congested as all students are dismissed at 2:35 p.m. Teachers and teachers' assistants will be on duty each afternoon.
Always turn off your unattended car.
MORNING DROP OFF
If you need to get out of your car to go into the office or go to your child's room, please park your car in the Grassy Area. Do not leave your car in Lanes 1, 2, or 3, the No Through Lane or the No Parking Area. If you are walking your child to class please walk with your child using one of the crosswalks. Teachers and teacher assistants will set a good example and use the crosswalk.
If you are dropping off your child, please pull up into Lane 1 as far as you can. This allows your child to safely leave your car on the passenger side without having to cross in front of another car. Then, looking carefully, you may pull into Lane 2 to leave.
AFTERNOON PICK-UP
Please use Lanes 1, 2, or 3. Three lanes of traffic narrow down to one lane thus creating a very congested area. Therefore, please do not use the No Through Lane or the No Parking Area, which will only add to the problem. Be patient; most days the parking lot is empty by 2:47 p.m. If you come around 2:45, you will find the parking lot relatively empty. Please remind your child to keep a lookout for your car. It is difficult for the teachers to remember all cars for all students.
If your child will be leaving school with someone other than those persons with permission listed on the Madison Academy Student Health/General Information form, you must send a dated note with this information to your child's teacher. Your child's teacher will return the note to your child, and your child will present this note to the teachers on duty. Students may not get into their cars without checking with the teachers on duty.
Parking at Tri-County - During the year there are special times (Fall Festival, Christmas Program, Spring Program, Field Day, and some out of town ball games) when parking at Tri-County is permissible. Tri-County has asked that we do not block the mailbox or the gate to their warehouse, nor park on their grass.
We realize that if your child has a doctor or dentist's appointment and must leave school between 2:00 and 2:30, the parking lot is impassable. Therefore, you may park in the Tri-County parking lot, walk around the fence, and come to the office. After you sign your child out, the gate will be unlocked, and you and your child may go through the gate locking it behind you. At no time may your child walk around the end of the fence.
REMEMBER COURTESY, PATIENCE, ALERTNESS, AND SAFETY ARE ESSENTIAL
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SCHOOL HOURS / EARLY ARRIVAL
School hours for 3K-8th are 8:00 until 2:35. Unless absolutely necessary, students should not arrive before 7:30 a.m.
Students in 3K who arrive before 7:50 shall report to the 4K room. 4th grade students who arrive prior to 7:50 are to stand in the breezeway between the 5th grade classroom and the Activity Building. 5th Grade students who arrive prior to 7:50 are to sit on the benches in front of their classroom. Students in grades 6th-8th are to remain in the breezeway that is located between the eighth grade classroom and the office until 7:50, at which time they will report to their homeroom classrooms. At 7:50 all students are to report to their classes.
While waiting for teachers to arrive after school or for rides after school, students may not play ball, chase, or play other games. They are to wait calmly in front of the school. Students are to be picked up by 2:50 p.m.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Students must obtain a certain amount of physical exercise and fresh air in order to remain physically and mentally healthy. Therefore, all students will be required to participate in the activities planned for Physical Education unless a written excuse from the student's parents or doctor is presented to the teacher. After a week, a doctor's excuse is required. Please notify the Physical Education teacher and the classroom teacher of any physical problems and/or limitations, which would restrict physical activity.
GENERAL INFORMATION
A. School Store - The school store will be opened each school morning from 7:30 to 8:00. The school sells supplies such as paper, notebooks, pencils, pens, erasers, steno pads, and poster paper. Prices are competitive with stores.
B. Snack - Students may bring a snack from home.
C. Enrichment for all Classes - A wide variety of experiences are available for each student - art, music, physical education, public speaking, computer skills, library and study skills are taught to each class.
D. Sportswear - Madison Academy "T" shirts and sweatshirts may be purchased through the school office.
E. Gifts, Invitations, Treats - Students should not bring gifts, invitations, treats, etc. to school for classmates unless they have one for everyone in the class. For example, if a student is planning to invite only a few classmates to a party, then those invitations should be sent through the mail or plans made by phone, not at school. Special gifts (not those that are part of a planned school party) for Christmas, Valentine's Day, birthday, etc., should be given privately, not at school.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL SPONSORED SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Madison Academy was established as a private school independent of public funding. Madison Academy has never discriminated in admission according to race, religion, or national orgin. However, the initial intention of the founders was to make available the opportunity for open Bible reading and prayer. Hence, Madison Academy has always tried to maintain a true sense of Christian values. In Keeping with this philosophy the Board has established guidelines as to school sponsored activites involving dancing and contemporary music.
All social activities, involving primarily students, must be approved by the Board prior to advertisement. The request for approval must include:
1. Type of event
2. Theme of the event
3. Representative list of music to be played
4. Classes to be invited
5. List of chaperons
This request shall be turned in to the Head as early as possible but no later than two weeks prior to the event. The responsibility of approval or disapproval shall lie with the Board which may, at its discretion, delegate that responsibility to the Head. The following guidelines will be maintained in determing approval for the event.
1. Music to be played will only be from pre-recorded media (records, tapes, CD's, etc.). Radios will not be allowed.
2. Music generally prohibited will be that type of music, which is considered obscene, racially biased, sexist, violent, and considered by the majority of the parent body to be offensive to anyone or any group.
3. There will be at least one chaperon for every ten students.
4. Attendance will be voluntary. Madison Academy students may bring one guest from outside the school in 5th-8th grades. All students and guests must conform to our dress code.
Once the event is underway the chaperons are totally responsible for assuring that each student maintains appropriate behavior and that the following guidelines are observed at all times.
1. Neither alcoholic beverages nor anyone appearing intoxicated will be allowed on school property.
2. Only that music included in the initial request shall be played.
3. Only that music included in the initial request shall be played.
Complete authority is given to any chaperon, administrator, or board member to expel anyone from the event at any time for any reason.
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SPORTS
There shall be no grade below S- on General Citizenship or below C- in any academic area on the three week report or the report card, if this occurs, then that student is on probation and will not be allowed to paricipate (dress out or play) in the next three scheduled games that are played. While on probation, the student may practice with the team. The student will be evaluated at the end of the 3 game suspension or the three week report, whichever comes first. Grades must be brought up to acceptable levels to return and be able to play.
ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT
The Madison Academy athletic program plays an important role in promoting the physical, social, and emotional development of each student. It is therefore essential for parents, coaches, and officials to encourage student athletes to embrace the values of good sportmanship. The best way this can be done is if all involved be models of good sportsmanship. We should, at all times, lead by example by demonstrating fairness, respect, and self-control.
STUDENT, PARENT, COACH PLEDGE
I acknowledge that I play a vital part in the development of student athletes and the success of the athletic program at Madison Academy. I therefore pledge to be responsible for my words and actions while attending, coaching, officiating or participating in a Madison Academy sports event and shall pattern my behavior to reflect the following code of conduct:
1. I will not engage or encourage any other person to engage in unsportsmanlike conduct with my coach, parent, player, participant, official or any other attendee.
2. I (and my guests) will be a positive role model and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice, or other sporting event.
3. I will emphasize skill development and practices over winning and playing time.
4. I will not instruct my child before, during, or after a game, because it may conflict with the coach's plans and strategies.
5. I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or confront coaches at the game field. If there is a concern, I will follow the designated chain of command. (Coach, Athletic Director, Principal).
6. I will not engage in the use of profanity or encourage any other person, to engage in the use of profanity.
7. I will not engage in verbal or physical threats or abuse aimed at any coach, parent, player, participant, official or any other attendee.
8. I will not initiate or encourage any other person to fight or scuffle with any coach, parent, player, participate, or any other attendee.
I agree that if I fail to pattern my conduct to the foregoing while attending, coaching, officiating or participating in a Madison Academy sports event I will be subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to the following in any order or combination:
1. Verbal warning issued by coach and athletic director.
2. Written warning issued by coach and athletic director.
3. Suspension or immediate ejection from a Madison Academy sports event issued by Principal.
4. Season suspension or multiple season suspension issued by Principal.
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Student Handbook
SCHEDULING OF ATHELTIC GAMES
The Athletic Director is responsible for scheduling all athletic games. Coaches should not schedule any games without the prior approval of the athletic Director. Games should be scheduled to minimize the disruption in the class. Students should not have to leave before 2:30 p.m. to go to either practice or play a game.
COACHES
All coaches will be assigned by the Athletic Director with the approval of the Head of School. Once the first practice has started, the coach will set his/her practice schedule. The Coach makes the calls on and off the field regarding who is to play and the strategy of the game. If there is a concern, parents and students will follow the designated chain of command. (Coach, Athletic Director, Principal).
RESERVED RIGHT
The foregoing provisions are general guidelines, and notwithstanding anything to the contrary stated or implied in this handbook, Madison Academy reserves the absolute and unconditional right to suspend and/or expel any student whose conduct, influence, spirit, industry, progress, or academic standing is deemed undesirable or unsatisfactory.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Any parent, student, or interested group who has a concern should attempt to resolve the concern through the channel of the faculty member and then the administration. As a final option, the concerned party may submit a written request to the administration to appear before the Board of Directors.
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Student Handbook
Madison Academy
Student Handbook
Acknowledgement
Please complete the following information:
Student's Name:____________________________________________Grade____________________
Address:_____________________________________________________________________________
Mother:____________________________________Father:____________________________________
Address:___________________________________Father:____________________________________
Phone:_____________________________________Phone:____________________________________
Cell Phone:_________________________________Cell Phone:________________________________
Email Address:______________________________Email Address:______________________________
SCHOOL HANDBOOK
This form is our documentation that you have received a copy of the Madison Academy Student Handbook. This handbook has been reviewed at school, and each stucent, parent and staff member is responsible for knowledge of its content.
___________"I have read and I accept the policies set forth in the Madison Academy Student Handbook. The Head and/or Assistant Head of School have my permission to spank my child whenever his/her behavior makes such discipline necessary, according to the guidelines set forth in the Student Handbook of Policies.
___________"I have read and I accept the policies set forth in the Madison Academy Student Handbook. I do not want my child spanked at school. I understand that if my child's behavior is such that a spanking would normally be given, I will be called and will have to go to the school to discipline my child."
ACCEPTABLE USE AND INTERNET SAFETY GUIDELINES
By signing this form you agree that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by the terms of the Madison Academy Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Guidelines. Should any violation or misuse of access to the school's computer network and the Internet occur, I understand and agree that my access privileges may be revoked and school disciplinary action may be taken.
As the parent or guardian of the above student, I have read, understand, and agree that my child or ward shall comply with the terms of the School Acceptable Use Internet Safety Guidelines for the student's access to the School's computer network and the Internet.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
___________________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature Date
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Student Handbook
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