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1. Introduction
2. A word from the Pastor
3. Administrator's message
4. History of VCA
5. Strengths of A.C.E.
8. Accreditation
9. Education Affiliations
10. Enrollment
12. Funding of VCA
13 Attendance
17. On-Campus & Home School Strengths
19. Awards Requirements
21. Guidelines for on-campus and Home School
21. Christian Americanism
22. Uniforms and Appearance
25. Decorative Items
26. Standard of Conduct
27. Social Networking and the Internet
28. Medical Guidelines
29. Communicable Diseases
30. Graduation Requirements
31. Christian Leadership
32. Prohibited Items and Areas
33. Student Pace Progress
34. Motivation and Controls
35. Privileges and Responsibilities
36. Learning Center Guidelines
37. Physical Education and Athletics
38. Home School Student Progress
39. Weather, Fire, and Tornado
40. School Closings
41. In-School Crisis
42. First Aid and Medicines
43. Personal property
44. Student Pick-up
45. Student Drivers
46. Student contacts and visitors
47. Parent Involvement
48. Arbitration
49. Limitations on Arbitration Decisions
Introduction
Vinemont Christian Academy is a necessary and integral part
of Soul’s Harbor Free Will Baptist Church and offers childcare
and educational training from infant – 12th grade.
Vinemont Christian Academy consists of:
Vinemont Christian Academy Daycare (infant – 12 years old)
Vinemont Christian Academy On Campus (Pre K – 12)
Vinemont Christian Academy Home School (K-12)
We appreciate the opportunity to present this ministry to
you and hope and pray that this is the beginning or
continuation of a wonderful relationship. We ask that you
prayerfully consider your child’s educational needs and
remember God’s mandate to teach and train our children the
Word of God and to provide them with an education from a
Biblical perspective. That is why Vinemont Christian
Academy exists. May God’s blessings be upon you as you
seek His will in raising the next generation of Godly leaders.
“And these words which I command you this day shall be in
thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy
children. . .” Deuteronomy 6:6-7a
A Word from the Pastor
Home of Vinemont Christian Academy
The objective in operating a church school is to obey the
scriptural imperatives of Deuteronomy 6:5-7a, "And thou
shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy
soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I have
commanded thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou
shalt teach them diligently unto thy children.", and Proverbs
22:6 “To train up a child in the way he should go; and when
he is old, he will not depart from it."
Teaching is training. Training for life must include
training for eternity. A Christian school is an extension of
the Christian home in training young people for time and
eternity in a Christian environment. Therefore, the school
staff works closely with the parents to train the whole child.
Attendance at V.C.A. is a privilege and not a right. The
goals of this school are not to reform but to train Christian
youth of any ability, in the highest principles of Christian
leadership, self-discipline, individual responsibility, personal
integrity, and good citizenship. V.C.A. stands without
apology for the old-time Gospel and the highest standards of
morality and Christian behavior.
Soul’s Harbor Pastor,
Pastor/Administrator
Mrs. Kori Dawson
Principal / Administrator
A Word from the Administrator Of
Vinemont Christian Academy
Dear Fellow-Stewards,
Whether you and I are parents, grandparents, aunts or
uncles, if we are responsible for the upbringing of a child, we
have been given a stewardship by Almighty God. It is,
therefore, your responsibility before God to ensure that
these children are given the best education that we can
provide. This education is extremely important because it
provides the filter through which they will process the events
of the rest of their lives.
An often ignored principle is that a person’s world view
is determined by their education. Every person should be
equipped with a Biblical world view because it is only when
you or I am in a right relationship with God that we will heed
His Word and be blessed because of our obedience. That is
why God said in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way
he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
We as the staff of Vinemont Christian Academy are
here to assist you in fulfilling your God-given role of
equipping your child for life, both in this world and for
eternity. We believe that we are equipped with the best
Christian program and curriculum available to prepare your
children for what God has in their future. We cherish the
opportunity to come alongside you and assist you in bringing
up your stewardships in the nurture and admonition of the
Lord.
To the glory of Christ,
Dr. Aaron Dawson
Administrator
“Call unto me and I will show thee great and mighty things
which thou knowest not." Jeremiah 33:3
History of VCA
A brief history of the work at Vinemont Christian Academy
Soul’s Harbor Ministries, which consist of Soul’s Harbor
Church and Vinemont Christian Academy
and Daycare, are the result of a vision God gave to a group
of people, led by Bro. Dennis Reeves, in 1973 to found a
work that could equip individuals for the work of God from
infancy to the end of their life. In 1974 the church was
begun and grew as the congregation set out to accomplish
the task that God had set before them.
In the fall of 1975 Vinemont Christian Academy began
its first year of school. Students have continued to learn at
V.C.A. every year since then. The attendance has varied
over the years, but God has always seen fit to ensure that
the needs have been provided. Most of the years that
V.C.A. has been in operation, it has received Model Status
from its curriculum provider, Accelerated Christian
Education, which is the highest honor that can be awarded
for outstanding performance in academic standards and
achievement. In the fall of 1976, the Soul's Harbor Daycare
was opened to provide childcare services with a loving,
Christian environment and is still providing that same quality
care today.
We, as the staff of Vinemont Christian Academy, are
still striving to fulfill the God-given call of the original
founders to meet each student’s needs in four basic areas.
The first area in which we strive to train is spiritual. Our
primary desire is for every student to have a personal
relationship with Jesus Christ. Once they have developed
that relationship we want them to be equipped to grow in
their knowledge of Him. The second area in which we desire
each student to be equipped is academically. We believe
that we are providing the most complete education that can
be provided for our students. Our third objective is to train
our students physically. Each person has a specific task
that God wants them to complete and we must be physically
capable of completing it. God also desires for His people to
live healthy lives, and that requires some physical training.
Our last focus area is to develop our students socially. We
need to be able to relate and communicate with people
wherever we may be. We attempt to provide many
opportunities for our students to come in contact with a
variety of people so that they are able to act comfortably in
whatever capacity God calls them to. God-allowing, we
desire to provide a complete and quality education for every
student.
Strengths of the ace curriculum and program
Since its beginning, V.C.A. has used the A.C.E.
curriculum and program. A.C.E. was started in 1969 and
has been providing quality academic material with a
Christian theme since then. The A.C.E. program is the best
available because it meets each student right where they are
at in their education. The educational philosophy of A.C.E. is
based upon the 5 Laws of Learning which state:
The student must be placed on a level of the curriculum
where he can best perform.
The student must set reasonable and appropriate goals
that he can be expected to achieve in a reasonable and
prescribed period of time.
The student must receive motivation through
encouragement and support and achieve control
through guidance and discipline in order to assimilate,
use, and experience the educational material.
The student’s learning must have appropriate
measurement applied to the results.
The student’s learning must receive recognition and
reward for its value, effort, and significance.
Based upon this philosophy A.C.E. has set out to better help
students learn the material. Learning is constant, not time.
The A.C.E. program has certain distinctives and they are:
Individualization
Each student that is enrolled at V.C.A. will be given a
diagnostic test to identify their academic performance level.
This test will also identify any learning gaps that a student
may have developed in their academic career. When the
student has completed their diagnostic testing they will be
assigned curriculum to first fill their learning gaps and then
they will proceed from their learning level. Each student
progresses through the curriculum at their own rate and
ability.
Goal Setting
Students at V.C.A. are taught to set achievable goals
that they can complete within the time that they have
available.
These goals are both short-term ( quarterly and yearly) and
long-term ( daily and weekly). The ability to set and achieve
personal goals prepares students for college and to succeed
in life.
Motivation and Control
Every student must be motivated to accomplish the
task before them with privileges that they will enjoy. We
attempt to provide these motivations through a variety of
positive events and opportunities for the student to
participate in. Students must also be controlled. It has
been wisely stated that “you cannot teach a child that you
cannot control.” The staff of V.C.A. attempts to guide and
discipline their students as needed to help them learn. We
have more information concerning the motivations and
controls that V.C.A. implements in a later section.
Measurement
How do you or I know what a student has learned
unless their learning is measured? The measurement begins
with a proper diagnosis of a student’s learning. This
measurement continues as the students work through the
curriculum with Checkups, Self Tests, and PACE Tests.
V.C.A. also participates in the standardized testing provided
by the Iowa Achievement Test which the students will take
in the spring of each school year.
Self-instructional and Mastery-based
Students work through the curriculum independently
under supervision in the Learning Center. The staff of
V.C.A. is not responsible to teach. The staff provides the
academic assistance that is necessary to facilitate student
learning. Students must demonstrate mastery of the
material before they are permitted to proceed.
Learning must take place before a student can advance.
Accreditation
The Question May Arise as to whether VCA or ACE is
Accredited
Accreditation in secular education is a standard
developed by a public education agency to attempt to
maintain academic equality in public schools. Those schools
may be held to a different standard than a Christian\Church
School would employ. Therefore V.C.A. has not sought
accreditation from a public accrediting agency. In contrast to
public\government education, V.C.A. still believes and
practices the Word of God as the foundation and heart of
education. God is welcome, His word is practiced, and prayer
is an inseparable, daily practice of our school. If we do
decide to seek accreditation, we will not compromise our
Christian distinctives to gain such approval.
V.C.A. does undergo a yearly evaluation to apply for
Model or Quality School Status through our Curriculum
Producer, Accelerated Christian Education. The standards
academically and otherwise, are rigid and high. We have
achieved Model Status or Quality Status most of the years
that we have been in service. Receiving Model Status is one
of our main objectives as a school every year.
The ACE Model School in Hendersonville, TN,
Lighthouse Christian School, which uses the same curricula
and program as V.C.A., has undergone evaluation by SACS
and CITA and has received accreditation.
Students who enroll in V.C.A. may apply for dual enrollment
through V.C.A. and Lighthouse Christian Academy, the
home-schooling program of A.C.E., and receive an
accredited diploma by meeting all graduation requirements.
Any student wishing to enter the dual enrollment program
must pay any additional fees that are charged by A.C.E. and
must be enrolled for an entire academic year and complete a
minimum of 6 credits.
Accreditation of a Christian school is not always
necessary for a graduate who wishes to enroll in a public or
private college or university. Registrars of such institutions
are interested in the academic merits of individual students,
not in the name of the school of graduation. Thus, they
evaluate each applicant's academic aptitude through a
nationally standardized test.
The instructional program of V.C.A. is designed and implemented to properly train students who wish to continue their education beyond high school. For more information on accreditation and student
acceptance in post-secondary education talk with the school
administrator for updates and clarifications. Ask about SB38
passed in 2014.
Vinemont Christian Academy
educational affiiations
V.C.A. is a member of the Alabama Christian Education
Association (ACEA) and the American Association of
Christian Schools (AACS). V.C.A. is recognized in the
community of public, private, and government school
organizations and has a reputation of having a quality
educational program. This recognition has been earned over
the years. V.C.A. has had students who have attended,
graduated, and gone on to college and a variety of careers and
have succeeded in life.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Enrollment
Enrollment and Admission Procedures and requirements
Vinemont Christian Academy is a uniquely religious, educational institution that seeks to provide quality education in a distinctly Christian
environment. One of the goals of Vinemont Christian Academy is to work
with parents and guardians to train Christian young men and women to be salt and light in their communities. Vinemont Christian Academy believes that the Bible (KJV) is the inspired Word of God and sets forth absolute truth by which Christians are to live. Vinemont Christian Academy expects and requires that both students and parents will support the school in its distinct mission and in its Biblical beliefs.
In relying on the teachings of Scripture, Vinemont Christian Academy believes that the Bible(KJV) prohibits sexual immorality of any type, including but not limited to pornography, homosexuality, or any other sexual activity outside the marriage of one man and one woman. On those occasions in which a particular home or student is acting counter to or in opposition to the Biblical beliefs and lifestyle that the school teaches, the school reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to refuse admission to any applicant or to discontinue enrollment of a current student. This includes, but is not limited to, living in, condoning, or supporting any form of sexual immorality; practicing or promoting a homosexual lifestyle or alternative gender identity, or otherwise having the inability to support the moral principles of the school as stated throughout this handbook.
We strive to provide a Christian environment conducive
to student learning and growth. Our desire is not to reform
anyone, but to mold and train young people to be all that
God has for them to be. To accomplish this purpose, it is of
a necessity that the students, as well as their family, be
faithful members of a Bible-believing church and in total agreement
with our statement of faith and practices. V.C.A. reserves the right
to refuse admission to anyone whose practices and beliefs
are not in agreement with our stated beliefs and practices.
Our complete statement of faith is stated in detail in our
church Constitution & By-Laws. We believe:
∙ The inspiration of the Bible, equally, in all parts, and
without error in its origin and entirety.
∙ The one God: eternally existent Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit, who created man by a direct immediate act.
∙ The pre-existence, incarnation, virgin birth, sinless life,
miracles, substitutionary death, bodily resurrection,
ascension to Heaven, and the second coming of the
Lord Jesus Christ.
∙ The fall of man and his subsequent need of
regeneration by the operation of the Holy Spirit on the
basis of grace alone, and the resurrection of all, to life
or damnation.
∙ The spiritual relationship of all believers in the Lord
Jesus Christ, living a life of righteous works, separated
from the world, and witnessing of His saving grace
through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Any family who wishes to enroll their child with V.C.A.
must complete the following activities:
∙ Come to the school for an interview and information
about the school and the programs that are offered.
∙ Read the handbook and fill out enrollment forms.
∙ Submit the completed application forms, accompanied
by the registration fee and previous school records with
immunization records.
∙ Upon acceptance, complete parent orientation.
∙ Parents must be in agreement with school policies,
academics, disciplines, and personal practice, and
support our Biblical morals and standards.
∙ Parents must pledge to support the school in word,
finances, and prayer for the school staff and program.
Before a student can be enrolled the following
forms must be filled out and returned to V.C.A.:
∙
Student Application, Prospective Parent and Student Agreement
∙ Medical History
∙ Church-School or Home-School Enrollment Form
∙ Signed Student Withdrawal
∙ Student Record Release
∙ Parent/Student Information Sheet
∙ Signed Media Permission Release
∙ Standard of Conduct (needs to be filled out by the
student)
∙ Method of Tuition Payment agreement
Vinemont Christian Academy
Funding of vca
The funding that allows V.C.A. to exist and function
are provided by the tuition that the families pay. It is
therefore absolutely necessary for each family to keep their
account current. If we do not have the funds that we need
to operate we cannot provide the services that we do. This
requires that every family stay current or we cannot allow
their child to continue their enrollment at V.C.A. No payment
will be permitted to be past due for a period of greater than
30 days. We provide the services that we do at a rate that
is considerably lower than any in the area and we have tried
to make it as reasonable as possible. We understand that
Christian education costs, and requires that sacrifices are
made, and we are grateful that many have seen the benefits
in spite of the required sacrifices.
Please see the Registration and Tuition Information Sheet
that is enclosed with the Enrollment Forms for information
concerning your specific situation. Payment is accepted in
the school office by cash, check, or cards. The
administration of V.C.A. reserves the right to make any
decisions concerning initial or continued enrollment based
upon any financial situation.
If at any time a parent/guardian decides to withdraw
their children from V.C.A. they must come to the school
office to get the Withdrawal Form and a current transcript to
be presented to the next school. All payments due must be
paid at the time of withdrawal. Though we do not desire to
lose a student we understand that situations arise which
necessitate a change of schools.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Attendance
Attendance Requirements:
Godly character requires a person is where they are
supposed to be when they are supposed to be there. When
parents insist on consistency in attendance; absences and
tardiness will be at a minimum. Please support the
attendance guidelines.
VCA complies with established Alabama laws for school
attendance and reporting. you may find information online
for more details.
A written excuse, signed by the parent\guardian, must
be presented to the supervisor when the student returns to
school after an absence. Only absences for sickness or an
emergency are excusable unless arrangements have been
made in advance. Students who are below their appropriate
level will not be excused for reasons other than sickness or
an emergency. All appointments should be made after
school hours to keep a child's progress from being inhibited.
If the student does not return with a written excusable note
signed by the parent\guardian, the absence will be recorded
as unexcused. The administration reserves the right to
define an excusable absence.
Six unexcused absences in one semester will
necessitate an in-school suspension of three days. All daily
PACE work must be completed during suspensions and
absences. A doctor’s written excuse or verifiable proof of an
emergency is required for absences to be considered
excused after 10 cumulative days, or 7 consecutive days in
one semester. Any students requiring more than one
suspension, because of absenteeism, will forfeit their
privilege to attend classes at V.C.A.
Any student not at his appointed place, at 8:00 A.M.
will be considered tardy and may receive 15 minutes of
detention time. Tardiness is neither permitted nor excused.
Three hours of cumulative tardiness (in late\or out early) in
one week are considered as an unexcused absence and will
cause a loss of any earned privileges for the following week.
Continued tardiness will result in a 3-day suspension and
loss of privileges to participate in field trips, sports, and
other extra-curricular activities for a period of time to be
determined by the principal.
Any PACE work missed because of an absence or tardiness must be completed. The only exception that would be considered is that the student is already advanced in their work and would not be inhibited
by the absence or tardiness.
If a parent knows in advance of an upcoming absence,
please send a note to inform the student's supervisor of the
upcoming absence or tardiness. V.C.A. reserves the right to
verify any questionable absences. Students missing 10
consecutive or 15 cumulative days of unexcused absences
during a single semester risk dis-enrollment from Vinemont
Christian Academy.
Dis-enrollment, of a student who has a drivers permit
or license, can result in the loss of driving privileges, by
state law, if a student does not immediately enroll in another
secondary school.
When a student misses seven consecutive or ten
cumulative days of unexcused absences, he and his parents
will be notified by the principal, or his designee, by
mail/e-mail, or text message that the student risks
dis-enrollment. A copy of the guidelines herein stated will
accompany the afore-mentioned notification. When ten
consecutive, or fifteen cumulative, days with unexcused
absences have been reached, the principal or his designee
will notify the student and his parents by mail to appear
before him within five days of the postmarked date on the
letter, to fully explain the absences. If an agreement is
reached between the student, his parents, and the principal,
no appeal will be necessary. If there is disagreement, the
student will not be dis-enrolled, but the School
Board\Attendance Appeals Committee will conduct a hearing
within five days following the meeting with the principal, and
render a decision within two days after the hearing.
Each absence will be judged based upon that which has
been determined by the school administration and published
in the school handbook as excusable or inexcusable.
Absences caused by circumstances beyond the control of the
student will be deemed excused and will not result in
dis-enrollment. Suspensions, expulsion from school, or
imprisonment are not circumstances that qualify as excused
absences. Excused absences include, but are not limited to,
the following:
∙ Illness, as verified by a licensed physician.
∙ Illness in the immediate family that prevented
attendance. (i.e., transportation was not available)
∙ Death of immediate or close family members
According to Senate Bill 334, all children ages 6 to
17 are required to be enrolled in school unless they meet
certain exemptions or have completed the requirements for
graduation. They are only permitted to discontinue their
education after they turn 17, obtain written permission from
their parent/guardian, and participate in an exit interview
where the ramifications of the decision will be discussed.
Attendance Policy Pursuant to Act 93-368 ( Divers
License)
The purpose of Act 93-368 is to require school
attendance standards as a pre-requisite for a driver's license
or learner's permit for the operation of a motor vehicle.
Enrollment in a Church-School meets the requirements
necessary to obtain a driver's license or learner's permit as
stated in Act 93-368.
By law, students six to seventeen years of age must file
a Church-School enrollment form with the local public school
superintendent. Students wishing to have driving privileges
must file this form until age 19 or until they earn a diploma.
When a student reaches age 15, he/she is eligible, by law, to
attempt to qualify for a learner's permit to operate a motor
vehicle. It is the student's responsibility to obtain a copy of
the previously filed Church-School enrollment form from the
local public school superintendent's office or Church-School
office, for presentation to the Department of Public Safety
verifying enrollment in the Church-School. The student
should write his social security number on the form before
presenting it to the driver’s license examiner, as instructed
by the State Department of Public Safety.
Senate Bill 57 / House Bill 464 (Behavior of 12 years
old or older)
States that any child 12 years old or older can delay the age
that they can acquire a driver's license based on school
behavior. This bill provides a point system that can be used
to determine the time a student must wait to get their
driver's license. If a student is in danger of coming under the
conditions of this bill the parents will be notified.
Vinemont Christian Academy
On-campus and Home school strengths
Since its beginning in 1975 V.C.A. has offered a quality
on-campus program and has been able to minister to
hundreds of children and families through that school
design. As time has gone by the interest in home-schooling
has grown. In 2005 we began the home-school ministry of
V.C.A. to meet the demand for this aspect of Christian
education. Each aspect, on-campus or home-school, have
their own individual strengths and benefits and depending
on the needs of the family, provide an option to meet those
specific needs. We will share the benefits that are specific to
each individually and then those that apply to both.
God makes it very plain in His Word that He has given
the responsibility of teaching and training children to their
parents. Many years ago, the children stayed at home and
learned the skills that were necessary directly from their
parents. As time went on and schools were started some of
the formal training was done in the school building, but
much was still taught at home. As society has continued to
change and has become more industry and career-minded,
much more time of a student’s life is spent in school
buildings rather than at home. By teaching your child at
home, you have the opportunity to oversee your child’s
education personally. Home-schooling allows the parent to
spend all day with their own child rather than simply at the
beginning or end of the day. V.C.A. provides parents
training, curriculum, record-keeping, and assistance in many
other capacities. If a parent has the opportunity and time to
home-school their child it can be a rewarding experience.
Though home-schooling can be a positive experience,
we realize that it is not the answer for every family. To
meet the needs of these families we offer an on-campus
program. The students in the on-campus program complete
their learning experience at the campus of V.C.A. Monday
through Friday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Our experienced and
caring staff provides the supervision, training, and molding
necessary to give each child the education they need. The
Learning Centers at V.C.A. are designed to maximize the
learning experience for each child by removing as many
distractions as possible and providing the motivation and
control that is necessary for learning to take place. The
schedule allows for ample academic time as well as sufficient
breaks and time for physical activity each day. Our desire is
to provide the educational fit for whatever each family’s
needs are, be it home-schooling or on-campus.
There are some exciting benefits that are available to
all our students regardless of whether they are home-school
or on-campus. Our extracurricular activities which include
field trips, athletics, student conferences, competitions, and
conventions are available to any and all students that meet
the criteria to participate. Also, each student can receive
awards for their academic, athletic, or leadership
accomplishments in our year-end Awards Ceremony.
Students can earn the following awards:
Vinemont Christian Academy
Awards & their requirements
Awards and their requirements
∙ Highest PACE Average
∙ Must have attended V.C.A. for the full year
∙ Must have the highest overall PACE average
∙ Most PACEs
∙ Must have passed each test
∙ Must have completed the most PACEs
∙ Most 100%s
∙ Perfect/Outstanding Attendance
∙ “A” Honor Roll
∙ Complete and pass the required number of PACEs for
each quarter
∙ Achieve a 94% or higher PACE average for each
quarter
∙ Memorize all monthly Scriptures in the prescribed time
limits
∙ “B” Honor Roll
∙ Complete and pass the required number of PACEs for
each quarter
∙ Achieve an 88% or higher PACE average for each
quarter
∙ Memorize all monthly Scriptures in the prescribed time
limits
∙ School Spirit
∙ Must be at least 13 years of age
∙ Must enjoy school
∙ Must participate in school functions
∙ Must not grumble or complain
∙ Must promote a positive school attitude
∙ Must exemplify the character of a Christian person
∙ Good Citizenship
∙ Must be at least 13 years of age
∙ Must be courteous, respectful, obedient, dependable,
and punctual
∙ Must have received few demerits and detentions
∙ Christian Character
∙ Must be at least 13 years of age
∙ Must be a saved student
∙ Must be faithful in church attendance
∙ Must be active in Christian service
∙ Must have a good Christian testimony in and out of
their church family must be a leader in Christian
conduct, attitude, conversation, and influence on others
∙ Scripture Memorization
∙ Memorize all monthly Scriptures by the last school day
of each month
∙ Recite each Scripture to your Supervisor or another
staff member
∙ Golden Lamb
∙ Must memorize and recite the entire book of John, one
chapter at a time
∙ Golden Harp
∙ Must memorize and recite the entire book of Psalms
one chapter at a time
∙ Golden Apple
∙ Must memorize and recite the entire book of Proverbs
one chapter at a time
Vinemont Christian Academy
guidelines for on-campus and home school
Guidelines Applicable to All Students
(On-Campus/Home)
Christian Americanism
V.C.A. places great emphasis upon the uniqueness of
America's heritage and the sacrifices of its heroes. America
is a republic which guarantees liberties to educate and to
preserve freedom. We unashamedly teach the Biblical
doctrines of self-discipline, respect for those in authority,
obedience to the law, and love for flag and country.
Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag;
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of
America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Christian Flag;
I pledge allegiance to the Christian Flag, and to the Savior
for whose kingdom it stands, one Savior, crucified, risen,
and coming again, with life and liberty for all who believe.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Bible;
I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word, I will
make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path, and
will hide its words in my heart, that I might not sin against
God.
Vinemont Christian Academy
student uniforms and personal appearance
V.C.A. is unashamedly a school of Godly standards in
appearance and dress. We believe that we should not only
be Christians in word and in action, but also in appearance.
We believe our appearance reflects our inward spiritual
condition and our esteem for others. Therefore, we choose
to have a standard of dress that is Scriptural and above
reproach, which will be a godly testimony.
We have chosen a school uniform for our students that has
many benefits and will give in return many dividends. Listed
below are some of the benefits of having a school uniform.
∙ Uniforms standardize the dress code. They will help
eliminate having to repeat requirements of what
students can and cannot wear.
∙ Uniforms prevent students from immodest apparel and
having a slovenly appearance. Modest uniforms help
students learn what is modest. They provide sharpness
as opposed to a sloppy, untidy appearance.
∙ Sharp uniforms command the respect of others. They
relay a message to others, especially those outside the
school, that you have a quality school and program.
∙ Uniforms help to improve the students' self-image.
Students can improve their self-image by being
well-groomed.
∙ Uniforms build greater self-control in students.
Behavior actually improves. When a student looks
sharp and neat, he will tend to act that way; a sloppy
appearance tends to foster undisciplined character.
∙ Uniforms do affect academics. As a result of feeling
well-dressed and without competition, students tend to
focus more on academics.
∙ Uniforms actually help reduce clothing costs. Uniforms
can often be worn from one to three years (or more),
meaning further savings. Instead of a wardrobe of
clothes for school, two or three uniforms are sufficient.
∙ Uniforms build school spirit. Enthusiasm is kindled
when others not in the church-school comment on how
nice the students look. When a student likes the
uniform, he usually will have a greater appreciation for
the school.
∙ Uniforms eliminate competition in dress. Peer-pressure
between students is minimized.
∙ Uniforms make it easy for students to know what to
wear each day.
∙ Uniforms portray a clear Christian witness to the
community.
∙ Uniforms help establish a pattern of modesty whereby
students may select other appropriate clothing
throughout life. They help build strong convictions on
what kind of clothing is modest, appropriate, and
Christian.
The school uniform must be worn each day to all
classes as well as to any school activities, field trips, ball
games, and programs whether on or off-campus, that are
school-sponsored. All students must wear their shirt or
blouse tails tucked in with all buttons fastened. Boy’s pants
legs must touch the top of the shoe. Girls dress length can
be no higher than the middle of the knee. Boys must wear a
black conservative belt. Boys and girls must wear black
shoes, well kept and clean (no athletic footwear, open toes
or heels or platform heels of more than one inch).
Gentlemen are permitted to wear dress boots as long as
they are worn under their pants leg. Boys and girls must
wear a V.C.A. uniform tie to all Church services and all day
on chapel day. (A 30-minute detention is issued for not
wearing ties on the chapel day) Boys must wear khaki socks
to match their pants and girls must wear either natural
colored hose, khaki socks, or they may wear black full length
tights that complement their skirts. In the winter months (
exact times will be determined to be the administration) girls
may wear the thicker hosiery with feet, (example: tights from
Zoghby's)
A male student’s hair must be cut so that it will meet
the following requirements: conservative, no fads, no
artificial coloring, no perms, cut off and above the ears,
eyebrows and shirt collar, tapered, never excessively full nor
long. Young men must be clean-shaven (no beards,
mustaches, or long sideburns).
A female student’s hair should not be so short that she
looks masculine. It should cover the ears. It should
also be kept clean and combed. The natural color must
not be changed. V.C.A. will provide the specific requirements
to satisfy the dress code each school year as needed.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Decorative items
Male students at V.C.A. are not permitted to wear
necklaces, earrings, bracelets or anklets, nor will they be
permitted to wear articles or items of clothing pertaining to a
female.
Neither male nor female is allowed to obtain tattoos (body
art) or body piercings. Boys and young men are to appear
masculine.
Female students are permitted to wear one small
earring no larger than a dime in each ear lobe, modest,
Christ-honoring necklaces or bracelets, and one modest
finger ring on each hand is permitted. High school girls (13
years & older) may wear a modest color and amount of
makeup including soft tones of nail polishes that are not
unbecoming a Christian lady or associated with gangs or cult
groups. Females are to appear feminine.
Students who fail to comply with the appearance codes
will forfeit their privilege to attend V.C.A. If a student arrives
at school in violation of the appearance and dress code the
parents will be called and the student will be sent home to
correct the violation. Detentions may be issued and repeated
offenses will result in expulsion. Complaining will not be
permitted.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Standard of conduct
All students of Vinemont Christian Academy are
expected to refrain from talking about or engaging in
cheating, swearing, smoking, gambling, rock music,
dancing, drinking alcoholic beverages, pornography, and
using or talking about narcotics\illegal drugs. No
homosexuality or immoral behavior will be tolerated.
Students who participate in such activities are subject to
suspension or expulsion at the discretion of the
administration. Students are expected to act in an orderly
and respectful manner, maintaining Christian standards in
courtesy, kindness, language, morality, and honesty. Neither
disrespect nor disobedience will be permitted. Students must
agree to strive toward an unquestionable character in dress,
conduct, and attitude.
Vinemont Christian Academy is a uniquely religious,
educational institution that seeks to provide quality
education in a distinctly Christian environment. One of the
goals of Vinemont Christian Academy is to work with parents
and guardians to train Christian young men and women to
be salt and light in their communities. Vinemont Christian
Academy believes that the Bible is the inspired Word of God
and sets forth absolute truth by which Christians are to live.
Vinemont Christian academy expects and requires that both
parents and students will support the school in its distinct
mission and in its Biblical beliefs. In relying on the
teachings of scripture, Vinemont Christian Academy believes
that the Bible prohibits sexual immorality of any type,
including but not limited to pornography, homosexuality, or
any other sexual activity outside the marriage of one man
and one woman.
On those occasions in which a particular home or student is
acting counter to or in opposition to the Biblical beliefs and
lifestyle that the school teaches, the school reserves
the right, in its sole discretion, to refuse admission to or to
discontinue enrollment of a current student.
This includes, but is not limited to, living in, condoning,
or supporting any form of sexual immorality;
practicing or promoting a homosexual lifestyle or alternative
gender identity, or otherwise having the inability to support
the moral principles of the school as stated throughout this
handbook.
Heb. 13:4, Gen. 3:6, 19:4-11, 24-28, Exodus 20:14, Deut.
5:18, Ps. 101:3, Matt. 19:18, Romans 13:9, I Cor. 6:13, 18,
7:2, 10:8, Gal. 5:19, Col. 3:5, I Thess. 4:3, Jude 1:7,
Vinemont Christian Academy
social networking and the internet
The availability of resources provided by the internet
can be used as a benefit, but can also lead to problems if left
unmonitored in a child’s life. One of the benefits provided
online is the increased opportunity to communicate with
others through social networking sites (Facebook, My Space,
Twitter, Plaxo, etc.) It is neither the intention nor the desire
of the administration to forbid students from participating in
social networking, but we do require that students refrain
from questionable behavior and communication, as defined
by Scripture and the Standard of Conduct, while
participating in social networking. The administration
reserves the right to request login and password information
concerning any social networking sites used by a student,
and the student will be required to turn over the requested
information. Any student who refuses to turn over the
requested information faces possible suspension or expulsion
as deemed necessary by the administration.
Parents will be notified prior to a request for information
concerning their child’s social networking site.
Parents would be wise to monitor all digital devices and set
limits on use, use filters, parental controls, and set time limits
and hours of the day to block predators and ungodly behavior.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Medical guidelines
A medical report must be filled out and submitted to the
school office. All students must have their blue, and/or pink
slips at the time of enrollment, and update them as required
by law; according to state Health Dept. The immunization
record must be an Alabama record. These may be updated
and acquired from the county Health Dept.
In instances where a student needs medical attention,
the school principal\staff will contact those listed on the
emergency contact list, the parent first, than those listed in
the order that they are listed. If a student must be
transported to the ER, a staff person will accompany them.
No staff member will be allowed to administer any
medicines, to any student for headache, fevers, or other
reasons, without parental permission. All medications
(prescription or OTC) must be left in the school office upon
arrival at school. Medicines must be taken in the office in the
presence of school staff. Please observe this rule for the
protection of all our students. Medicines can only be
administered as prescribed on the medicine container. No
amounts above the listed amount can be administered
without a doctor’s permission at the time of administering
the medicine.
Medicines must be in their original containers.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Communicable diseases
V.C.A. is acutely aware that there may be
communicable diseases that may prohibit a student from
attending regular classes at V.C.A. We regret that such
situations exist. V.C.A. has an obligation to protect our
students, school, and church staff from students who may
be carrying AIDS, Syphilis, Gonorrhea or other
communicable diseases.
A student, who wishes to enroll at V.C.A., carrying the
above-mentioned diseases or other communicable diseases
for which there is no known cure, will be permitted to
enroll in our home-school program. This policy applies
to students already enrolled, or who may wish
to enroll, who are carrying or test positive for the presence
of antibodies to the AIDS virus, (HTLV-111/LAV) or other
non-curable diseases. Due to our obligation to protect our
students, church and school staff, we cannot accept these
students who are afflicted with these diseases nor retain
them in our on-campus program. Home school may be an
option.
Any information concerning students having AIDS or
other communicable diseases will be kept in the strictest
confidence by school administration personnel. Any
information to be released will be done so only at the
direction of the pastor of Soul's Harbor Free Will Baptist
Church.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Honor roll and Graduation requirements
At the beginning of each quarter, the supervisor will
assign a certain amount of work for each student to
complete to earn the Honor Roll. The standard amount is 3
PACEs in each subject for a total of 15-18 PACEs per each
9-week quarter. The supervisor may adjust the amount
required based upon the needs of an individual student. The
student and their parents will be notified by the 6
th week of each quarter what amount of work the student has remained
to earn Honor Roll. Regardless of the number of PACEs required each student must maintain a minimum of 88% to earn Honor Roll. Those students who maintain 88%-93% earn “B” Honor Roll. Those who maintain a 94%-100% earn “A” Honor Roll. Those students who maintain any level of Honor Roll all four quarters of the school year will earn an
Honor Roll award.
Graduation Requirements
A minimum of twenty-four units of credit is required for
graduation. A prescribed course of study will be determined
through a conference with the staff, parents, and student.
Transfer students must complete at least sixty paces in this
school before receiving a diploma, and that must include a
minimum of two courses in Bible electives. (New & Old
Testament Survey, Life of Christ, or New Testament Church
History). We do not encourage early graduation but do
encourage a student to expand their education by earning
additional credits until they are a late 17 or 18 years old. We
encourage all students to obtain the most they can
according to their ability while they are still young and have
the opportunity and time. There probably will not be a
better, nor easier time to do so than now.
We offer four different diploma programs (Honors,
College Preparatory, General, and Vocational) and a
certificate of attendance for rare circumstances. Following
are the programs and their requirements:
∙ Honors Diploma (27 credits)
∙ Math – 4 credits (Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2,
Trigonometry)
∙ English – 4 credits (English 1-4)
∙ Social Studies – 4 credits (World History, American
History, World Geography, Civics/Economics)
∙ Science – 4 credits (Biology, Physical Science,
Chemistry, Physics)
∙ Bible Electives – 3 credits (New Testament Survey, Life
of Christ, New Testament Church History, other Bible
courses may be substituted or added)
∙ General Electives – 8 credits (Etymology, Health,
Nutrition Science, 2 Languages, Music, Speech,
Computer Science, 2 credits of Physical Education,
other courses may be added)
∙ A student wanting to achieve an Honors Diploma must
have an overall high school average of 94% or higher
and attain a 22 on the ACT or 1000 on the SAT
∙ College Preparatory (26 credits)
∙ Math – 4 credits (Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2,
additional credit can be chosen from our other math
courses)
∙ English – 4 credits (English 1-4)
∙ Social Studies – 4 credits (World History, American
History, World Geography, Civics/Economics)
∙ Science – 4 credits (Biology, Physical Science,
Chemistry, additional credit can be chosen from our
other science courses)
∙ Bible Electives – 3 credits (New Testament Survey, Life
of Christ, New Testament Church History, other Bible
courses may be substituted or added)
∙ General Electives – 7 credits (Etymology, Health,
Nutrition Science, Computer Science, Language, Music,
Speech, 2 credits of Physical Education, other courses
may be added)
∙ General Diploma (25 credits)
∙ Math – 4 credits (Algebra 1, Geometry, 3
rd and 4 th credits can be chosen from our other math courses)
∙ English – 4 credits (English 1-4)
∙ Social Studies – 4 credits (World History, American
History, World Geography, Civics/Economics)
∙ Science – 4 credits (Biology, Physical Science,
Chemistry, 4
th credit can be chosen from our other
science courses)
∙ Bible Electives – 3 credits (New Testament, Life of
Christ, New Testament Church History, other Bible
courses may be substituted or added)
31
∙ General Electives – 6 credits (Etymology, Health,
Nutrition Science, Computer Science, Music, Speech,
2 credits of Physical Education)
∙ Vocational Diploma (24 credits)
∙ Math – 4 credits (4 courses through the 9th level)
∙ English – 4 credits (4 courses through the 9th level)
∙ Social Studies – 4 credits (4 courses through the 9th level)
∙ Science – 4 credits (4 courses through the 9th level)
∙ Bible Electives – 2 credits (New Testament Survey, Life
of Christ, other Bible courses may be substituted or
added)
∙ General Electives – 6 credits (Etymology, Health,
Nutrition Science, Computer Science, 2 credits of
Physical Education, ∙ 6th credit can be chosen from our other elective
courses)
∙ Work experience credits may be earned with proper
verification.
∙ No Vocational diplomas will be awarded to students less
than 18 years old.
V.C.A. makes or sets no age or date of graduation.
Some students may need to remain in school longer than
others to complete their prescribed course of study.
Diplomas will not be awarded until the prescribed course of
study has been completed for graduation. Students who are
within 5 paces of finishing may be included in the graduation
ceremony, but will not receive a diploma nor be considered a
graduate until all course work is complete.
A certificate of attendance, on rare occasions, may be
given a student who is at least 19 years old and for special
circumstances beyond their control, are not able to obtain
any of the four afore-described diplomas, having reached his
or her 19th birthday.
V.C.A. maintains high spiritual, academic, moral, and
social standards, and does not compromise these to
accommodate those who would attempt to lower these
standards. It is needful that students and parents, who are
entering the ninth level, meet with the student’s supervisor
or administrator to help prescribe the course of study for
graduation. Often, state graduation requirements change,
and with the development of new courses and updates for
existing ones, adjustments to a prescribed course of study
may be necessary. Please keep up to date on these items by
regular contact with the school.
We reserve the right to alter these graduation
requirements as necessary because of revised educational
requirements by the government, college preparations,
curriculum updates and additions of new or revised courses,
or according to individual student ability substantiated by
student aptitude and achievement test results. Please stay
informed about your child's progress by talking often to your
child's supervisor.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Christian leadership
Students are assigned to, and meet in, devotional
periods Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Biblical teaching
and principles of life are organized, outlined, illustrated, and
discussed, in meaningful sessions with life applications.
Weekly institutional sessions are held where the student
identifies his education with the ministry of the Church.
Local pastors and staff preach the Word of God. For one
week during the fall and again during the spring, the
students plan and assist in implementing a series of revival
and evangelistic meetings to which attendance is required.
Students must bring Bibles to all devotions, chapels, classes,
and special meetings.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Prohibited items and areas
Students attending V.C.A. are prohibited from
possessing on the school campus the following articles. Any
of these items could result in the expulsion\suspension of
the possessor\owner of such items.
∙
Guns, weapons, or destructive devices of any
description. Any student found in possession of any of
these items will be reported to the appropriate law
enforcement agency.
∙ Matches and lighter
Electronic / digital devices without prior approval
∙ Media Devices are prohibited on the campus or in
vehicles. Students who drive to school may leave their
cellular phones in their car or with the school staff with
prior permission. Students are permitted to take them
when driving to school events for security purposes.
∙ Illegal Drugs and Paraphernalia. Zero tolerance for all
such items. Any person found or suspected of
possession of illegal items will be reported immediately
to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
∙ Any books, magazines, games, videos, toys, etc. must
be approved by a staff member before a student is
permitted to have them on campus.
∙ No threats of violence or harm of any type, verbal,
physical, in personal communication, nor by any digital
media are permitted, severe and appropriate action will
take.
Students are prohibited from being in or interfering
with the following areas:
∙ Other Students’ offices In a Learning Center without a staff person or permission
∙ Any teachers’ desk and cabinets
∙ All church equipment, such as musical instruments and
P.A. equipment without prior permission.
∙ All unsupervised areas
∙ The Business office and Pastor’s office
Vinemont Christian Academy
Student pace progress
Each student is enrolled in school to increase their
knowledge and understanding. If learning is taking place it
will be measured. As each student completes their PACEs
they will be tested to verify that they have mastered the
material covered and if they have not they will be given the
opportunity to master the material by repeating that PACE.
This is the process that a student will go through in
completing their academic work:
A PACE is assigned to the student.
The student reads and works through the PACE writing
in pencil and if he has difficulty with a concept the staff
is available to assist him with whatever help is
required.
∙ When a student score strip appears at the end of a
concept or at the bottom of some pages in the PACE,
the student raises his flag for permission to score.
Taking only his PACE to the scoring station he scores
his PACE according to proper scoring procedures.
As the student completes his goals in each subject,
including scoring and correcting, he sets new goals
each day.
Once the PACE has been completed, it is turned in to
the supervisor and the student will take the test the
following school day.
∙ Upon obtaining the necessary score (88% on all but a
few high school electives) the student is issued the next
PACE in sequence the following school day.
The staff encourages the students to complete enough
work for them to stay on level or to get back on level if
necessary. Each student is challenged to do their best and
is not permitted to be lazy or to give a half-hearted effort.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Motivation and controls
A student who believes that others, especially his
parents and teachers, believe in him—his worth, his
capability, his efforts, and his ability to achieve—will be
motivated in his work and play. The staff utilizes motivation
to inspire achievement. Each supervisor will strive to use
consistency, love, encouragement, support, and interest to
build each student’s self-image and confidence and inspire
him to greater success. We intend to motivate the students
of V.C.A. by:
∙ Showing love to each student
∙ Responding positively to student needs and requests
∙ Praising Godly character
∙ Presenting Congratulations Slips upon the passing of
PACE Tests
∙ Rewarding academic achievement with privilege levels,
awards and field trips
∙ Recognizing any 100% as well as multiple 100%s
Control is exercised to facilitate learning for every
student. It has been wisely said that you cannot teach a
student that you cannot control. Just as God has rules,
laws, and standards that He expects His children to obey
that are a blessing and help to us, the rules and guidelines
that the students of V.C.A. are expected to abide by are for
their benefit. The disciplinary procedures that we use are
designed to train students to exercise self-control,
self-discipline, and self-responsibility. The procedures that
we use are:
∙ Demerits are issued for infractions of Learning Center
guidelines.
∙ Detentions are issued if a student accumulates the
required demerits in a single day (3 demerits-15 minutes, 4
demerits-30 minutes, 5 demerits-45 minutes, 6
demerits-60 minutes) and the detention is served the
following school day.
∙ Suspension, whether in-school or home
∙ A Disciplinary Ultimatum may be issued. Scripture
makes it very plain that the disciplinary procedure that
is the most effective in teaching children is corporal
correction being applied by a loving parent. We believe
and support discipline being administered according to
Scriptural guidelines, but the command to administer
corporal correction was given by God to the parents.
The staff makes every effort to administer correction
through verbal corrections and warnings, detentions,
and prayerful conferences, and in most cases these
efforts are successful. In the event that these
disciplinary procedures have been found to be
ineffective in correcting the disciplinary problem of a
student, the following process will be followed:
A conference will be called including the parents,
student, and staff to discuss the problem and possible
solutions.
∙ The problem will be clearly discussed, and any
applicable Scriptural principles will be brought out, and
a recommended course of action may be offered by the
staff.
∙ The desire of the staff is that the offensive and/or
unacceptable behavior or action be corrected by the
parents, and the result of the conference will be that an
agreement is reached to that end. The signed
agreement will be placed in the student’s file for
reference, and a copy will be given to the parents.
∙ A failure of the student to comply with the agreed-upon
course of action and all applicable policies contained in
the Parent/Student Handbook in action and attitude
will result in the expulsion of the student.
∙
There are some actions that require that the usual
disciplinary procedures be bypassed as a result of the
severity of the infraction at the discretion of the
administration. These actions include but are not limited to:
∙ Using profanity
∙ Fighting (physical, violent contact or blows)
∙ Flagrant disobedience
∙ Cheating
∙ Unscriptural or improper sexual conduct
∙ More than six demerits in one day
∙ Intentional destructiveness of property or facilities
∙ Stealing
∙ Lying
∙ threats of violence
∙ Continuously refusing to meet academic progress
standards
∙ Expulsion
Discipline is not what is done to a child, but for a child. It is
imperative that the parents support the school in any
discipline that is necessary. If there are any questions or
anything that needs to be discussed please do so. The more
communication that the staff and parents can have the more
likely there is to be a positive resolution.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Privileges and responsibilities
Privilege Levels and Responsibilities
Level "A" Responsibilities:
1. Complete required number of PACEs each week
2. Maintain academic balance.
3. No more than 45 minutes of detention in the preceding
week.
4. Memorize all monthly Bible selections.
Level "A" Privileges:
1. One additional 15-minute break at the designated time.
2. May read approved literature.
3. May engage in extracurricular activities with supervisor’s
permission (art, inspirational tapes, sports, field trips, etc.).
Level "C" Responsibilities:
1. Complete required number of PACEs each week.
2. Maintain academic balance.
3. No more than 30 minutes of detention in the preceding
week.
4. Memorize all monthly Bible selections.
5. Present a special 5-minute oral report on select and
approved topics.
Level "C" Privileges:
1. May read approved literature, listen to inspirational tapes,
etc., with supervisor’s permission.
2. May engage in extracurricular activities in the office or
39
other assignments outside of the classroom with permission.
3. May engage in classroom functions and be out of the seat
without permission.
4. May work at the reading table with supervisor permission.
Level "E" Responsibilities:
1. Complete at least 2 PACEs per week.
2. Maintain academic balance.
3. No detention time during the previous week.
4. Memorize all the previous month's Scriptures.
5. Read, and report on a literature book or a book selected
from a prepared list (both oral and written report monthly).
6. Must be engaged in some form of Christian service in
their local church on a regular basis (bus ministry, play
piano, nursery, puppet team, visitation, teach class, choir
member, solos or group, etc.).
Level "E" Privileges:
1. May leave their student office and Learning Center at will,
when not committed to other responsibilities or functions
with the supervisor’s knowledge.
2. May attend approved off-campus functions of a spiritual
or educational nature during school days.
Other motivational privileges may be awarded, as the
administration and staff deem appropriate.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Learning center guidelines
The Learning Center is designed to be a place of
learning, and as such, must provide an atmosphere
conducive to learning. The staff works to minimize
distractions and disturbances to allow each student the
opportunity to give their complete attention to their
academics. Each student must abide by the Learning Center
Guidelines and any infraction of the guidelines earns the
student the appropriate discipline. Listed are the guidelines.
Each student is to do their work in their PACE's in their
own student office facing into their office without
looking around the classroom.
PACE work is done in pencil in accordance with the
instructions contained in the PACE.
∙ Any academic assistance, questions, or any needed
permission that is required the student signifies this by
raising their flag.
∙ At the appropriate time, each student must obtain
permission to score and score according to proper
scoring procedures.
∙ Permission must be obtained before a student proceeds
with a Checkup or Self Test.
∙ Students are not permitted to communicate with other
students during academic time.
∙ Students are to refrain from participating in activities
that will serve as a distraction to the other students.
∙ Goals are set each morning and the student is required
to finish the assigned goals in that school day and any
that is not completed must be taken home as
homework.
∙ Any correspondence that is sent home (homework slip,
detention slip, parent correspondence envelope) must
be signed by the parent/guardian and returned the
following school day.
Vinemont Christian Academy
physical education and athletics
It is the policy at V.C.A that no student is excused from
Physical Education without a written doctor's excuse.
Students who do not participate in P.E. class 80% of the
time will receive an incomplete for a grade. Students are
required to wear their school P.E. uniforms. Disciplinary
action could be enacted if a student continually fails to be in
complete P.E. uniform. Repeated offenses double the
penalty. P.E. clothes must be taken home at least once each
week for cleaning. No sleeveless blouses or tank tops
permitted for boys or girls.
Boys P.E. uniform:
∙ Athletic shoes and socks. Shoe colors may very.
∙ P.E. shirt as ordered through the school uniform
supplier. (currently Zoghby's)
∙ Navy blue sweat/athletic pants (Navy blue athletic
shorts of mid-knee length or longer may be worn in
warm weather)
∙ P.E. Bags must be plain with no logos, or decals from
other institutions or organizations.
Girls P.E. uniform:
∙ Athletic shoes and socks. Shoe colors may vary.
∙ P.E. shirt as ordered through the school uniform
supplier. (Currently Zoghby's)
∙ Navy blue culottes (must touch the floor when in the
kneeling position)
∙ P.E. Bag must be plain with no logos, or decals from
other institutions or organizations.
V.C.A. participates in athletic events with other
Christian schools. Events are available for both boys and
girls, with written consent from the parents or guardian of
each student. Parents are to provide written evidence of the
fitness of their child to participate in physical activities and
sports. The information concerning athletic uniforms will be
given to those involved when needed. All students are
eligible for sports and extracurricular activities for the first
two weeks. After that time "A" privilege or higher privilege
status must be maintained for eligibility. A student will
forfeit participation in athletics for any un-Christian behavior
or attitudes or any violations of school standards.
Vinemont Christian Academy
homeschool student progress
Motivating students to complete academic work can be
a difficult task at times, and if certain precautions are not
taken learning will slow and possibly cease. This takes on a
more important role in home-schooling. When students are
on-campus there is not much for them to do but their
schoolwork because the distractions have been limited
considerably. A student that is in the home-school program
can be easily distracted since they are at home. Effort must
be taken by the supervising parent to reduce all the possible
distractions. It is recommended that a specific work area be
set aside to ensure an area conducive to academics. A
student who does not comply with the required amount of
work will be notified, and if the habit continues the student
will, at the discretion of the administration, be asked to
withdraw from the home-school program of V.C.A.
Students enrolled in the home-school program of
V.C.A. are assigned to one of two programs based upon the
distance from their home to the campus. If the family lives
within 20 miles of V.C.A.’s campus they will report and test
weekly on campus. If the distance is greater than 20 miles
they will report quarterly. Those who live within 20 miles
abide by the following procedures:
∙ PACEs and Score Keys are assigned and given by the
supervisor.
∙ Students set goals, complete their work and parents
score the Paces throughout the week.
∙ Each student is assigned a specific time to come to the
campus of V.C.A. for testing and the issuing of more
curriculum.
∙ Score Keys of finished paces must be brought to each
testing session to allow for the supervisor to switch for
the next Score Keys.
∙ Home-school students are required to complete and
test in a minimum of 2 PACEs each week for those on
the level, and at least 3 for those below grade level or
are completing gap material. Any amount less than
this will result in that student falling behind in their
academics. Home school students must complete a
minimum of 15 paces with passed test each quarter.
Exceptions will be considered for students with
learnings dis-orders or handicaps.
Those students who live a distance of greater than 20 miles
from the campus of V.C.A. have the following procedures:
∙ PACEs and Score Keys are assigned and given by the
supervisor.
∙ Parents & Students set daily goals, complete their
work, Parents score, the Paces, and test throughout the
week.
∙ The parent/guardian is responsible to score all
completed tests and to ensure that all tests, Test Keys,
and Score Keys are kept under strict supervision.
∙ Students must not have access to score keys or test
keys, they are for parent use only.
∙ At the end of each quarter the parent/guardian and
student report to the campus for the test scores to be
recorded and new curriculum to be issued.
∙ Home-school students are encouraged to complete and
test in a minimum of 2 PACEs a week for those on the
level, and at least 3 for those below grade level or are
completing gap material. Any amount less than this
will result in that student falling behind in their
academics.
∙ A minimum of 15 passed pace test is required each
quarter. To do less puts a student at risk of
dis-enrollment.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Weather, fire, and tornado
The safety of our students is a matter of foremost
concern to the staff and we take whatever precautions
necessary to ensure they are safe. Any time a parent is
concerned with the safety of their child we encourage them
to contact us to determine the situation and the precautions
taken. In the event of a fire in the facilities, all of the
students and staff are evacuated to the back yard of the
property, where they gather under the trees until a word is
given of the next appropriate action. In the event that a
Tornado Warning is issued, all of the students and staff
gather in a safe location in the interior of the buildings until
it has been declared that the danger is passed.
Parents are allowed to come and pick up their children
at any time that threatening weather occurs with no penalty
for attendance guidelines or awards. We do recommend
that in the case of dangerously inclement weather that they
allow their child to stay in the safety of our facilities. We will
permit any parent the opportunity to seek shelter in our
facilities if they are caught out in any inclement weather.
Periodically, the school and daycare facilities undergo fire
and tornado drills to ensure that all of the staff and students
are adequately prepared to take safety precautions.
Vinemont Christian Academy
school closings
There are times where weather conditions prohibit the
school from opening and doing business as normal. If it is
known that school will be closed we will notify the parents as
soon as possible. To find out about a possible closing,
contact the school office or Administrator.
Be sure to keep your contact information up to date.
Vinemont Christian Academy
in-school crisis
Though we may not like to think that the violence that
has occurred in schools around the country could take place
at V.C.A., prudence dictates that we must plan for such an
event. We have taken some precautionary measures to
prevent anyone from entering the Learning Centers who is
not authorized to do so. Also, by having each family list
those who do and do not have permission to pick up their
child from school we virtually ensure the safety of our
students when they leave. All other entrances are locked
which allows the staff to screen those who may or may not
enter the classrooms. In the event of an emergency, we
would immediately contact the appropriate authorities and
do all that is within our ability to ensure the safety of our
students. If a parent hears something that concerns them
about V.C.A., we strongly recommend that you call the
school office before coming to the campus. God has seen fit
to bless and protect our campus, staff, and students, and we
are trusting in His protection as well as exercising the
common sense that He has provided to make our facilities as
safe as possible.
Vinemont Christian Academy
First aid and medicines
The students at V.C.A. are under constant supervision
which provides that ability of the staff to respond
immediately to any injuries or incidents that require medical
attention. We are prepared to administer basic first aid as
needed and if it is deemed necessary, the staff will contact
the parents and medical personnel to treat an injured
student. If your child requires daily medication or if a doctor
has issued a prescription, give it to the school office with the
dosage instructions when you bring your child to school. In
the event of an injury, the staff will notify the parent of the
events surrounding, and the nature of the injury to allow
them to make the proper decision about the next step in
providing the care necessary for their child.
Vinemont Christian Academy
personal property
The staff and administration of V.C.A. respect the
privacy and rights of those on our campus, and our desire is
to make each day as pleasant an experience as possible.
However, we do reserve the right in any situation we deem
necessary to search any individual’s person, property, and
vehicle that is on the campus of V.C.A. We must provide as
safe an atmosphere as possible and we will not hesitate to
remove any threatening objects, substances, or persons to
ensure the safety of those on our campus.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Student pick-up
We understand that the safety of your children is
foremost in your mind as it is in ours. To help ensure that
each child goes home with whom they are supposed to we
ask the parents to keep their “Approved Pick-up” list current
with all those individuals who have the parent’s permission
to pick up their child from school. In the event that a
person that is not on the list arrives to pick up a child, the
parents will be notified immediately to find out what their
desire is concerning the situation. If the parents do not give
their permission or the staff is unable to contact the parents
we will not permit the child to leave with the individual. If it
is the parent’s desire for a person that is not on the list to
pick up their child they must contact the school office to
notify us of their desire and permission. We appreciate the
family’s cooperation with this matter.
Vinemont Christian Academy
student drivers
Students driving vehicles must be licensed by D.O.T.
and approved by a parent or guardian in writing. Written
permission must be on file in the school office. Vehicles must
be parked in the student parking area. All students must
stay out of and off vehicles from the time of arrival until
time to depart. Students must obey all school zone laws
while on the school campus. Violations will result in the
student losing their privilege to operate a vehicle on the
school campus. Students who drive to school must have
parent\guardian permission to leave school during school
hours. Boys and girls (except brother and sister) will not be
permitted to leave school together without written
permission from parents and school approval for each
occasion.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Student contacts and visitors
The school office phone is reserved for church\school
business and emergencies. Students desiring to place
necessary\needful calls must have permission from a
supervisor. He\she must give the name and number to
school staff who in turn will place the call. Students are not
permitted to receive calls or make calls to or from peers
during school hours. Parents are asked to give their
messages to the secretary to prevent a disruption in the
learning center. The message will be given to the student.
Students are not permitted to have cellular phones, pagers,
or other communication devices during school hours unless
specific permission is obtained from the school. (See
prohibited items).
Students may bring friends who are interested in V.C.A.
to school with school approval. Visitors must keep clothing
standards and get approval from the office before entering
any student areas. V.C.A. has a closed campus policy.
Non-students are not permitted to come on campus, to visit
students at V.C.A. without permission. All visitors must
check-in at the school office when entering the school
buildings.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Parent involvement
The Christian School is an extension of the home. We
are acting in your stead in the education of your children;
therefore, we are a team. It is the desire of the staff of
V.C.A. to be involved with the parents beyond
Parent/Teacher Conferences and the Awards Ceremony at
the end of the year. To facilitate more interaction we
schedule Parent/Teacher Fellowships to allow the staff and
parents to spend time together that is not focused on
education but interaction. Also, it is our desire for each
parent to be as involved as they can with field trips, special
events, and athletics. At times, we want to allow parents
who have skills in certain areas to discuss their area of
expertise with the students to impart knowledge that they
may not be able to obtain otherwise. Contact the school
office to discuss what areas you may specifically like to be
involved. In most areas of involvement, it is necessary by
law for parents to have a background check done before
they can participate with the students. The administration
reserves the right to approve or disapprove any parental
involvement that requires parents to interact with children
other than their own.
Vinemont Christian Academy
arbitration
Binding Arbitration
Submission to Arbitration
Believing that lawsuits between believers are prohibited
by Scripture, all members of this church and/or those who
place their children in the church’s Christian school or
daycare ministry agree to submit to binding arbitration any
matters which cannot otherwise be resolved, and expressly
waive any and all rights in law and equity of bringing any
civil disagreement before a court of law, except that
judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be
entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof.
In the event of any dispute, claim, question, or
disagreement arising out of or relating to this
Parent/Student Handbook or other school matter, the parties
shall use their best efforts to settle such disputes, claims,
questions, or disagreements as befits Christians. To this
effect, they shall consult and negotiate with each other in
good faith and, recognizing their mutual interests not to
disgrace the name of Christ, seek to reach a just and
equitable solution. If they do not reach such solution within
a period of sixty days, then upon notice by either party to
the other, disputes, claims, questions or differences shall be
finally settled by arbitration as described in the above
section, and such Procedures for Arbitration as are adopted
pursuant to the section below.
Vinemont Christian Academy
Limitations on arbitration decisions
Limitations on Arbitration Decisions
The Procedures for Arbitration shall be as adopted by
the pastor and advisory board.
Please read the following statement and sign where
designated if you agree with the statement. If you
have not signed this statement and returned it to the
school it is accepted that you agree to these terms
and conditions.
Please sign and send in this Student Handbook Acknowledge Letter (.pdf Online)