Membership

FACCS

Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools

NACS

National Association of Christian Schools

400 Lakeview Drive

Coral Springs, Florida 33071

954-755-6405

www.gladeschristian.com

Email: gca@gladeschristian.com

MISSION STATEMENT

Glades Christian Academy offers a premier education emphasizing spiritual, academic, physical and social training that will prepare students to enjoy success in life and help them to commit fully to the adventure of following Christ.

PURPOSE

Glades Christian Academy is established to provide an educational experience in a warm and friendly atmosphere for children Kindergarten to 8th grade.  Recognizing the importance of balanced growth, our staff provides many opportunities for the social, mental, physical and spiritual development of the child.  Our program is also established as a service to the families and children of the community.  More specifically, our program is:

•   To teach students that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe and that the Lord Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God who came to earth to die for our sins

•   To teach students that God has spoken through His infallible word, the Bible, therefore, to help students apply study skills, understand and apply its principles to every part of daily life

•   To inspire and motivate students to receive Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior and to commit to live their lives to serving Him

•   To help students love, obey, respect and serve others as God desires, thereby accepting responsibility for their behavior and treatment towards others

•   To help students develop the ability to assume responsibility for the tasks they are given

•   To provide an excellent education by providing outstanding, professional teachers who are well trained and demonstrate a strong commitment to their Christian faith

•   To help students become thankful and responsible citizens of our nation and to appreciate our diverse world

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

Glades Christian Academy, 400 Lakeview Drive, Coral Springs, FL, 33071, admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the organization.  Glades Christian Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and other organization-administered programs.

ABUSE POLICY

In accordance with Florida law, GCA is obligated under penalty of prosecution to report reasonable suspicion of physical, emotional and sexual abuse or physical neglect to the Florida Department of Children and Families. In this very serious matter, the school cannot contact parents before making a report to the appropriate authorities. The one exception to this occurs when the victimizer is other than the immediate family. (Ex.—daycare worker, teacher). It is clearly intended by law, based on the gravity of said crimes, that this institution is mandated to report reasonable suspicion of these abuses. The school will file such reports, considering what is in the best interest of the affected student. There is no legal alternative except to give the report to the proper authorities for investigation and review.   Our staff is training to recognize signs of neglect and abuse.

ACADEMICS

The distinctive perspective Glades Christian Academy provides for the student is the emphasis on a biblical view towards academic subjects.  Since we believe that all truth is God’s truth and the world is a part of God’s creation and that He is sovereign over all things, every academic subject must be taught from a Biblical perspective.  Science is the study of God’s creation reflecting the laws and order He ordained to govern its existence.  Mathematics reflects the orderly nature and structure of the creation.  History is a study of the events God has ordained and orchestrated as part of His sovereign plan for His world.  Language Arts illustrates the desire of God for man to communicate and express his thoughts and ideas to Him and other men.  Every subject provides a special perspective on God’s desire for an intimate relationship with His created world.  

ACCIDENTS

We maintain a fully equipped First Aid box in the school office and classrooms.  The staff is trained in CPR and First Aid procedures.  If the accident needs further medical attention the parents will be notified immediately.  If it is life threatening, 911 will be contacted. In the event that the parent cannot be reached the school will follow transport instruction given by the first responders. If the parent is unable to reach the school prior to transport a member of the school office will accompany the student to the hospital. All minor and major accidents are documented, and signed by parents within 24 hours of the accident; copies are available for parents.  

ACCREDITATION

Glades Christian Academy is a member of the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS) and members of the National Association of Christian Schools (NACS). There is no accreditation program or requirement for any school, public or private, K-8 in Florida. Accreditation is required for all 9-12 programs.  Accreditation is accomplished by private agencies.  GCA is currently seeking accreditation through NACS.

ADMISSIONS

"And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up." (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, NKJV)

Glades Christian Academy is called to serve those parents who take to heart the command of the Lord in Deuteronomy 6:6–7.  Therefore, in order to be considered for admission, the student’s family must be willing to abide and maintain the following biblical standards:

•   A belief in Jesus Christ and His teachings

•   A life that reflects Christ-like moral purity

•   Participate in school activities and events

•   Abide by school rules and policies

•   Is actively involved in disciplining and educating their children at home

AMENDMENTS OR CHANGES

Church by the Glades or Glades Christian Academy reserves the right to amend, revise, supplement, delete, alter or rescind any policies or portion of the handbook from time to time as it deems appropriate, in its sole and absolute discretion. Parents will be notified of such changes to the handbook as they occur. Parents agree to accept and abide by any such subsequent additions, changes, modifications or deletions. 

ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL

School hours (including Pre-Care and After-Care):  7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Academic school hours, Kindergarten through 8th grade: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Aftercare

Aftercare for Kindergarten through 8th grade students is available on all full days of school. There is no Aftercare on half day noon dismissal.  Fees for Aftercare are assessed beginning at 3:21 P.M. for Kindergarten through 8th grade students. Attendance is taken daily and the family is billed at the end of the month for the days in attendance. 

After-Care Pick-Up

Parents retrieving Aftercare students must enter the school Administrative Office through the main entrance and a staff member will call the student for dismissal.  Students may not be picked up from any other area on campus.

Car Pick-Up

Parents wishing to pick up their child by car will follow the same procedure as drop-off.  Parents will follow the path and wait for a teacher to escort their child to his/her automobile.  Parents choosing this method of pick-up must use the red identification card and place it on the dashboard of each vehicle on the passenger side.  In the event that you need additional cards, please contact the school office and we will gladly provide as many as you need.

Parents may also choose to park on the side of the building and retrieve their child from the outside waiting area.  Please do not park in the pick-up area during arrival and dismissal times as this causes congestion and is a potential safety hazard.

In the event of severe weather conditions (lightening, strong winds), we will delay dismissing the students by at least five minutes or until conditions improve for a safe dismissal.

Carline for Kindergarten through 8th grade is 3:00-3:20 P.M. Any student not picked up by the end of carline will be taken to Aftercare.  

Early Arrival 

Pre-Care students will be supervised in one of the classrooms. Attendance is taken and the family is billed at the end of the month for the days in attendance. Due to all school doors remaining locked at all times, students are to be brought through the playground on the southwest end of the building to the back door of the Pre-Care room.  

Early Dismissal

We ask that you please refrain from picking your child up early as our teachers utilize every minute of the day in order to maximize learning. All students are expected to be in attendance for the entire school day. Early dismissals should be for emergencies only. In the event that a child must leave prior to the end of the day, the child must be picked up and signed out through the office no later 2:30 pm. There will be no early releases after this time as per school policy.  Students with a scheduled appointment during that time need to be picked up prior to 2:30 p.m. If you are planning to pick up your child early, please notify your child’s teacher at least one day in advance.

Morning Drop-Off

From 8:10-8:30, school personnel will escort all students into the building.  Morning carline drop-off is available to students arriving between 8:10 and 8:30 a.m.  Students will be escorted from their automobiles into the North entrance of the building from the rear of North parking lot.  Parents may choose to park and walk their child to the main entrance. With the exception of the first day of school, all students will be escorted into the building by school staff.

Any student arriving after 8:30 a.m. must be escorted by a parent to the main entrance and directly into the Administration Office.  Office personnel will then escort the student to his/her classroom.  Students arriving after 8:30 a.m. will receive a tardy slip. 

Release of Students

All families will be assigned a carpool placard. For student safety, children will only be placed with a driver showing an official carpool placard issued by the school. If you are in the carpool line and do not have your placard, you will be required to park and come into the building. The receptionist will be able to identify you as a person on the official student Pick-Up and Release Form and you will be allowed to take the student.

A child will be dismissed only to a parent or legal guardian unless prior arrangements have been made and permission is given in writing or by phone for someone else to take your child home. A photo ID will be required to sign a student out of school. Although this procedure requires time, please remember it is designed to protect your child. No teacher is authorized to dismiss any child from the classroom prior to the final bell. Students are signed out and dismissed only through the front office and only to authorized individuals. Please carefully follow these procedures, which we establish for your child's safety.

Attendance

Any student who participates in the School Choice scholarship programs has attendance reported on a quarterly basis.  If a scholarship student has 10 or more absences in a 90-day period are subject to losing their scholarship opportunity.

Regular attendance is essential to the academic progress of the student.  Classroom instruction, social interaction and the learning experiences are vital parts of the educational process. The potential lessons missed through absences can never be replaced.  It is imperative that parents reinforce the importance of regular attendance by encouraging your child to be present each day school is in session.

Glades Christian Academy provides the following guidelines regarding absences. 

1.       The only excused reasons for absences/tardies are:

A.   Illness of the student

B.    Bereavements

C.    Family trips (with written notice provided at least one week prior)

D.   Special skills and hobbies requiring competition on school days

E.    Church retreats

F.    Verifiable medical, dental or optical appointments (appointments should be scheduled after school hours whenever possible) 

G.   School sponsored activities

H.   Civic or community involvement

2.       Improper reasons for absences/tardies

A.   Trip with other than own family

B.    Personal business of a non-emergency nature

C.    Over sleeping

D.   Out-of-town guest

E.    Not prepared for class

Glades Christian Academy follows Florida Statues regarding Attendance and Tardies   Florida Code 1002.42

Non-attendance for instructional activities is established by tardiness, early-release or absences from school.

1. Each principal must make the necessary provisions to ensure that all school attendance reports are accurate and timely and must provide the necessary training opportunities for staff to accurately report attendance (F.S.1003.23 (1)). Principals are required to maintain an attendance record which shows the absence or attendance of each child enrolled for each school day of the year. (F.S.1003.23 (2))

2. When a student accumulates five (5) absences during a grading period, other than out-of-school suspensions, whether excused or unexcused, school personnel shall make a good faith effort to contact the parent by telephone to discuss the reasons for the absences and shall document such contact.

3. A letter shall be sent to the parent or guardian and a referral will be made to the school’s Child Study Team for a student who has had at least five unexcused absences, or absences for which the reasons are unknown, within a calendar month, or 10 unexcused absences or absences for which the reasons are unknown, within a 90-calendar-day period.

4. If the parent or guardian of a child who has been identified as exhibiting a pattern of non-attendance enrolls the child in a home education program, the Superintendent shall refer the parent to a home education review committee composed of the district contact person for home education and at least two home educators selected by the parent from a district list of all home educators who have conducted a home education program for at least three years and have indicated a willingness to serve on the committee.

5. If a child subject to compulsory school attendance will not comply with attempts to enforce school attendance, the Superintendent may file a truancy petition pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section §984.12, Florida Statutes. The Superintendent may also refer the case to the case staffing committee which may file a child-in-need of-services petition. The Superintendent may also take such steps as are necessary to bring criminal prosecution against the parent. (F.S. §1003.26)

6. Students 14-18 years of age who have 15 unexcused absences within 90 calendar days and have a driver’s license will have their driver’s license suspended by the Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles or will not be issued a license if they apply for one.

 CODE OF CONDUCT

Code of Conduct Action Legend

A.      Parent Contact/Conference (Required for each offense)

B.      Collaborative Problem-Solving Team

C.     Confiscation (when applicable)

D.     Restitution (when applicable)

E.      Attendance / Behavior Contract

F.      Verbal Warning

G.     Detention (1-5)

H.     Loss of privilege

I.       In-School Suspension (1/2 day – 3days)

J.      Loss of Extra-Curricular Activities (1-30 days)

K.      Out-of-School Suspension (1-5 days)

L.      Out-of-School Suspension (6-10 days)

M.     Expulsion or Administrative Withdraw

CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCEDURES

During the course of the year, occasional misunderstandings or problems may arise between a student and teacher, parent and teacher, parent and the school or in any other relationship.  Generally, this results from a lack of clear communication between those involved in the conflict.  Our goal is to resolve all conflicts at the direct level without involving those who are not necessarily part of the problem or solution.  However, in accordance with the principles outlined in Matthew 18:15 – 22 and Galatians 6:1, we will strive to resolve any situation in a manner that satisfies all parties.  If that is not possible, we have two options:  one is to choose to disagree and remain friends; the other is to recognize the issue is divisive and therefore it may be in the best interests of all parties to sever the relationship between the school and the offended family.  

•   All questions, problems or complaints should first be discussed directly with the person involved in the issue.

•   If the situation is not resolved at this level of direct contact, it should then be addressed by appointment with the school principal.

•   If the problem is still not resolved, it should be presented in writing to the principal.  

Parents must agree to follow these steps and attempt a positive resolution to problems and disagreements within the school community.  Please do not involve yourselves in such negative and divisive activities as gossip or spreading hearsay.  Remember the good reputations of other people and/or the school is to be honored, protected and promoted.

CHANGE OF RESIDENCE

The school office is to be notified in writing of any change in a student’s residence.  Written notification must be submitted notifying the school of any changes in residence to live with someone other than the parent/guardian who enrolled the student in the school.

DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES

"We are careful to be honorable before the Lord, but we also want everyone else to see that we are honorable." - 2 Corinthians 8:21 (NLT)

A fundamental ingredient necessary to help students master self-discipline is HONOR. Therefore, GCA has adopted a behavior code rooted in this principle. Students are to demonstrate genuine HONOR for

•   God and His Word

•   Parents, teachers and other adults

•   Classmates and other peers

•   School and church property, policies and procedures

Each teacher will develop a creative record keeping system unique to his or her classroom that will include both positive techniques for encouraging honorable behavior as well as a system for reproving dishonorable behavior. The system will be utilized school-wide to encourage fair, easily understandable penalties for all students and parents.

Warning System for Kindergarten - 5th Grade

·      Warning one through three will result in a warning or other penalty the teacher deems appropriate

·      Warning four will result in a written note sent home to parents

·      Warning five will result in a visit to the office and phone call to parents

·      The 2nd visit to the office will result in 1 lunch detention

·      The 3rd visit to the office will result in a 1 day in school suspension

·      The 4th visit to the office will result in a 1 day out of school suspension

·      Office visits reset each quarter, but expulsion may be appropriate for excessive visits to the office

Warning System for 6th-8th Grade

·      Warning one will result in a verbal warning from the teacher

·      Warning two will result in removal from the classroom, new seating assignment or student intervention at the teacher's discretion

·      Warning three will result in a parent conference/parent phone call

·      Warning four will result in a detention

·      Warning five will result in an internal/external suspension at the school administration's discretion

A missed detention will result in a rescheduled detention and another detention will be issued. If the rescheduled detentions are not served, the student will face more severe penalties such as internal/eternal suspension based upon the student's disciplinary history.  School work missed due to external suspension may result in zeros.

GCA Anti-Bullying Policy

Glades Christian Academy is committed to protecting its students, visitors, and employees from bullying, harassment or discrimination for any reason and of any type. Failure to do so compromises GCA’s commitment to Jesus and His Word and to offering a premiere educational experience. Therefore, GCA believes that all students and employees are entitled to a safe, harassment-free school experience. Bullying, harassment, or discrimination will not be tolerated and shall be just cause for disciplinary action.  Bullying is defined as repeated acts or written or spoken words intended to intimidate or harass a person or to cause physical harm to a person or his or her property.

***Please see the separate document “Glades Christian Academy Anti-Bullying Policy” for complete guidelines, procedures and disciplinary measures pertaining to bullying*** 

Cheating and Lying

Cheating on schoolwork is a serious offense and is dealt with accordingly.  Cheating includes any form of work submitted which has not been completed honestly and fully by the student.  

The exchanging of answers on homework, as well as plagiarism, is considered cheating.  Both the person obtaining information and supplier are treated the same. A grade of zero (0) is generally given for an assignment on which cheating took place.  In cases of plagiarism (copying from a source without crediting the author), the work must be redone. 

Guidelines Regarding Detention, Suspension and Expulsion 

After school detention is at the discretion of school administration.  Suspension may be recommended for any first-time offense or recurring offenses. If the same offense occurs following a suspension, it may result in expulsion from school.  Privileges and extra-curricular activities will be denied during any suspension. Expulsion may be recommended for any serious first-time offense or recurring offense.  Any student expelled from Glades Christian Academy will not be considered for readmission. 

Student Conflicts

Glades Christian Academy is committed to encouraging positive behavior in our students.    Children who have conflicts or problems with others while at our school will be encouraged to verbalize their angers and concerns.  If a student exhibits disruptive behavior in the classroom, the teacher will attempt to help the student correct the inappropriate behavior. Children whose behavior endangers others will be removed from the other children.  The child will then process the problem with the teacher, principal or any other concerned parties. If the student refuses to correct the disruptive behavior, the child will be removed from the classroom and the parents may be asked to pick up their child.  Discipline and guidance will always be positive, productive and immediate when behavior is inappropriate.  

The role of the teacher at school is to be a helper in positive problem solving.  Our staff members guide rather than punish. No child will be humiliated, shamed, frightened or subjected to verbal or physical abuse by staff or by parents on our campus. 

The heart of discipline must resound with love for the student who needs instruction, rebuke, correction or further training.  The motivation behind any discipline is to produce a change that results in a transformed life that reflects conformity to the truth of God’s Word. 

At Glades Christian Academy, the purpose of discipline is rooted in the following principles:

•   Discipline procedures should be biblical and rooted in love (John 13:34 & 35).

•   Discipline procedures should be corrective, producing a change in 

•   thinking - renewed mind (Romans 12:12a);

•   attitude - Christ likeness (Philippians 2:5);

•   behavior - transformed life (Romans 12:12b).

•   Discipline procedures should focus on the positive; emphasizing the lifestyle students should develop.   

DIVORCED PARENTS

Families who are in legal dispute over child custody or who are divorced are required to submit to the office an original of any legal documentation which details custody issues. These documents will be placed in the child’s file. If mailings need to be sent to more than one home, parents must provide the office with this information. Both parents are responsible for the student’s financial obligations, unless court documents state otherwise. 

Any request by the custodial parent to limit or restrict a non-custodial parent’s access to the student or the student’s information must be accompanied by an original final judgment, court order, and/or settlement agreement. 

ELECTRONICS

Tablets and personal laptops brought to school with parental consent may not be used during the academic day. They may be used in aftercare. The school is not responsible for any lost, damaged or stolen personal electronics.

Cell phones cannot be used as a phone during school hours. In a true emergency, parents should call the school office so both the school and the student can be informed of the situation.

Students are to keep all cells phones turned off and either kept in their book-bag or locker for the duration of the school day.  Students are not allowed to call parents from their cell phones. Students may come to the office if a need should arise where they desire to talk with their parent or guardian or to plan for alternative pick-ups

Inappropriate or unauthorized use of any electronic device may result in confiscation for the remainder of the day as well as other disciplinary action under the GCA Discipline Guidelines.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Monthly emergency drills are held at varying times and documented by the principal.   The teachers are trained and respond to a series of codes used with our intercom system.  The codes cover procedures to be used in the case of fire, tornado, hurricane, and intruder.

Fire 

Teachers remain calm and reassure the children.  The children are taken to their designated locations outside as posted in the classroom.  Teachers will do attendance checks using their roll books.  Office staff will check bathrooms, playground and kitchen areas.

Weather Alert 

In the event of a tornado, the children will sit under their desk or table inside the room for safety.  They will be instructed to take emergency positions until the danger has passed.

Hurricanes 

If we are under a hurricane watch, Glades Christian Academy will follow the same closing procedures as the Broward County School System.  This information will be available through the local news media, radio or television.

Intruder 

If a lockdown is needed, 911 will be called first.  Teachers will verify that the hallway and outside doors are locked and window shades will be closed.  Students will be moved to a safe area of the classroom. Please note: The safety and security of the students is our top priority. You may not receive a parent alert notification as quickly as you would like. However, an alert will be sent out once the school is secure and there is information for the parents.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Glades Christian Academy offers after-school programs. Information on these programs is available in the school office.  If a fee-based activity is not paid by the due date each month, the student will be withdrawn from the activity. 

FIELD TRIPS

In-house field trips are included in the Activity/Materials fee. Off campus field trips are discontinued due to the following: van rental increases, security and COVID-19. Students earn the right to participate in field trips by displaying appropriate classroom behavior and are in good academic standing.

GCA PROPERTY

Students are permitted to use various items belonging to GCA, including textbooks, Chromebooks, iPads and resource materials.  They are expected to treat them with care and to keep them in good condition.  Any items that are lost, damaged or that exhibit excessive wear will result in the parents of the student being assessed a fee to replace those items.

Middle School has the privilege of using lockers to hold their books and supplies.  If a student takes advantage of the use of lockers, they will then lose the privilege. All lockers and back packs, purses and sports bags are subject to search and seizure at any time the administration deems it necessary for the protection and welfare of the school. 

HEALTH and SAFETY

Glades Christian Academy is a nut-free, drug, alcohol, and smoke-free facility.

Medication Procedures

All medications to be administered at school will be kept in the school office and will be administered by office personnel only. Parents must fill out the Authorization for Medication form.  Please do not ask the teacher to administer medication.  

•   No medications should be sent with a student in his/her lunchbox or book bag.

•   All medications must be in original containers and state the proper dosage.

Self-Carry Medications and Emergency Medications 

Florida State Law allows students to carry their own medications for the following reasons: 

·  Diabetic student: May carry blood glucose monitoring equipment and insulin as determined by the attending physician. 

·  Allergic student: May carry an EpiPen as deemed necessary by the attending physician. 

·  Asthmatic student: May carry a metered dose inhaler as deemed necessary by the attending physician. 

Florida Statue 232.032 requires that students enrolling in a Florida school must present tangible documentation that immunization and health requirements have been met.  The documentation includes the HRS FORM 3040 health examination and HRS FORM 680 certificate of immunization (Part A, B, or C.).  A Florida physician must complete the forms within 12 months prior to the entry date.  They are transferable within the State of Florida.

Additionally, State of Florida regulations mandate that students entering Kindergarten and 7th grade meet additional immunization requirements and submit documentation to the school showing compliance with the requirements.

No student will be permitted to attend school without current documentation.

HOMEWORK

Generally, homework will be assigned to students Monday through Friday.  Possible weekend assignments may include make-up work or long-range assignments such as book reports, special projects or research papers.  

For the purpose of allowing time for our students who attend church activities, there is no homework on Wednesdays.

Homework objectives

•   To stimulate voluntary effort, initiative, independence, responsibility and self-direction

•   To reinforce school learning by providing the necessary practice, integration and application

•   To enrich the school experience through related home activities

•   To encourage the carry-over of school interests into leisure interests  

Parental responsibilities

•   Schedule a consistent homework time each day

•   Provide a quiet, well-equipped place for the student to work uninterrupted

•   Provide supervision and help as needed

•   Provide oral drill practice for memory work and review content material

•   Check to see that assignments are completed and assist in the development of good organizational skills

ILLNESS POLICIES

In order to maintain a healthy classroom environment, the following guidelines will be followed:

We will not admit children with:

·       A fever of 100 F or above

·       A skin rash that has not been identified by a phone call or in writing from a physician who has seen the rash

·       Diarrhea and/or vomiting two or more times in a day

·       Severe coughing

·       Rapid or difficult breathing

·       Yellowish skin or eyes

·       Conjunctivitis/pink eye

·       Sore throat or difficulty swallowing

·       Stiff neck

·       Infected skin patches

·       Pain of which the child complains and interferes with normal activity

·       Evidence of infection

·       Excessive fatigue

·       A moist or open cold sore

·       Evidence of head lice or other parasites

·       GCA follows Health Department procedures regarding lice. Parents are expected to accompany students to school for re-inspection by GCA before a student may return to school. If live lice and/or nits are found, the student will not be permitted to return to school.

Readmittance for children:

·       With a physician’s statement that the child is free from communicable disease and that returning poses no risk to the child or others

·       If visibly free from communicable disease; fever free without benefit of fever reducing medication for twenty-four hours; no vomiting or diarrhea for a period of twenty-four hours while on a normal diet.

Once office personnel notify you that your child is ill, you are expected to pick up your child in an expedient manner.

INTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS

We offer students the following intra-curricular enrichment courses:  Art Appreciation, Chapel and physical education 

IMPLIED CONSENT

When a student enrolls at Glades Christian Academy he/she waives the right of privacy related to any personal property brought on campus.  Refusal to comply with a request for permission to search a student’s possessions or locker may result in disciplinary action.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

While in attendance at school or participating in a school-sponsored activity, students are covered by insurance through the school’s supplemental insurance. The supplemental insurance generally begins after the student’s personal medical insurance has paid their portion which includes deductibles. If a child is injured during the school day, the teacher will send him/her to the office. Parents will be contacted if any injury requires treatment to the student.  It is very important that the school office has a current medical information card with emergency numbers listed.  Please notify the school office within 48 hours, if your child reports an injury that took place while at school. 

LOST AND FOUND

All articles belonging to your child should be labeled with his/her first and last name.  Lost articles will be brought to the school office.  Articles remaining at the end of the quarter will be donated to a charitable organization.

LUNCH AND SNACKS

All students are to bring a healthy morning snack and lunch to school each day.  After-care students must also bring a healthy afternoon snack. Please provide a well-balanced lunch; no soda, coffee, or energy drinks (i.e.: Red Bull, Monster…) or candy.  Due to the fact that there is no cafeteria, heating or refrigeration is not available to students.  Please use an ice-pack or hot/cold thermos as needed.  If your child develops any food allergies, please notify the school office immediately.  GCA is a NUT FREE school.

Catered Lunch (optional):

On specified days, our school provides Subway, pizza, Moe’s, Chick-fil-A, and CharHut. All lunch orders must be pre-ordered and paid for the month ahead. Calendars and reminders will be sent throughout the year.  If a student is absent on a catered lunch day, parents have until 3 pm to pick up their child’s lunch for that day.

MAKE UP ASSIGNMENTS

Make up work assignments will be prepared by the teacher for any student who is absent.  A general rule will permit the same number of days he/she was absent to complete the missed work. Example One (1) day absent: student absent on Monday, make up work will be given upon return on Tuesday and all make up work will be due on Wednesday. Example Two (2) days absent: student absent on Tuesday and Wednesday, missed work will be given upon return on Thursday and make up work will be due on Monday. Unusual cases resulting in extended absences due to an accident or serious illness will be evaluated by the administration.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

We strongly encourage parents to be involved in their child’s education.   However, please notify the school office in advance of your visit. Any parent who volunteers or visits must pass a level 2 background check.**Due to the COVID-19 pandemic at this time all parent volunteers have been discontinued until restrictions have been lifted.

Parent and School Relationship:

In order for the school and home to enjoy the highest degree of cooperation, we believe it is essential that both parties understand basic expectations designed to foster cooperation. 

1.     We recognize that parents are the foundational influencers of a child’s character and moral standards. Therefore, it is your responsibility to teach, model and encourage the moral principles you want your child to develop.  (Ephesians 6:4)

2.     We encourage each family to be actively involved in a local church that will provide your family with Biblical teaching and instruction regarding the importance of developing a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.  (2 Timothy 3:16, 17)

3.     Glades Christian Academy is charged with being good stewards of our resources and to maintain a good reputation in the community.  Therefore, it is important that we meet our financial obligations in a timely manner.  This requires each family to faithfully remit their tuition payment each month.  We also encourage each family to prayerfully consider how they can offer a financial gift to GCA to enable us to add programs to our school. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

4.     We need to mutually support one another.  If a disagreement arises, we commit to handle it in a manner that is positive and solution oriented, rather than critical and divisive.  (Psalm 133:1; Matthew 18: 15 – 22)

5.     We believe that discipline is a necessary part of the teaching process rooted in our love for the child and we are committed to exercising appropriate measures to help the child understand how to change thinking, attitudes and behavior.  (Proverbs 22:6; Romans 12:2)

Each family is reviewed annually by Glades Christian Academy relative to these standards. Families whose lives are not characterized by these standards receive ministerial support and are held accountable. Meetings with the parents occur to address each situation in a manner consistent with the Word of God. If, after ministering to the parents, it becomes clear that one or both parents persists in failing to maintain the standards identified above, ministry toward the family could continue, but the enrollment of their child(ren)enrollment would be subject to termination.

Parent-Teacher Conferences:

Teachers will request conferences as necessary for each student throughout the school year. All school families are encouraged to schedule a conference with their child’s teacher during the first quarter of the school year.  Parents requesting conferences with homeroom teachers, intra-curricular teachers or the school principal may be scheduled through the school office. 

**Due to COVID-19 most conferences will be held via Zoom meetings.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

In order to foster an atmosphere that is conducive to excellence in learning, GCA has decided that certain items will not be permitted on our campus.  Items prohibited are:  skateboards, matches, fireworks or any item, which is dangerous or could be perceived as a dangerous item.  If a student brings any of these items to school, the item will be confiscated and returned only to the parents.  The student may face disciplinary action.

PROMOTION/RETENTION

Promotion or retention of students in grades K – 8 is an educational decision made by the school principal and teacher(s) after careful examination of academic progress and contributing factors.  Parents will be consulted in an effort to add input to the decision.  Retention should not be viewed as failure, but rather as an alteration in the learning pattern to meet a particular need of the student.  The following will serve as reasons for this decision:

1.     Excessive absenteeism – Any child with more than twenty (20) unexcused absences or twenty (20) absences total per year may be retained.

2.     Not Meeting Standards for Promotion – A student who earns a D or an F on the report card (Reading, Math, Social Studies, Science or Language Arts) will be marked not meeting standards for promotion. If the report card reflects an F average for the year in Reading/Language Arts or Math the student will be subject to retention. A student who is retained is not allowed to repeat the grade at GCA.

3.     Test scores near one year below the present grade level will also be a reason for intervention program enrollment and/or retention. A student who is retained is not allowed to repeat the grade at GCA.

4.     Other – Mutual agreement of parent, teacher and administrator to retain the child at the current grade level due to emotional, social or academic reasons may also be cause for retention.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued at the end of each nine-week grading period via FACTS.  It is suggested that in reviewing your child’s report card you (1) look for the areas in which he/she has improved, (2) look at the trend in each subject area (whether it is up or down or constant) and (3) indicate your pleasure in the areas of improvement, make suggestions and determine a procedure to monitor those subjects in which the grade is less than satisfactory.  

Kindergarten-8th Grade Grading Scale:

97 – 100       A+                  77 – 79          C+

    94 – 96        A                    73 – 76           C

90 – 93        A-                  70 – 72           C-

87 – 89        B+                  67 – 69           D+

    83 – 86        B                    63 – 66           D

80 – 82         B-                  60 – 62          D-

59 and below F

SECURITY

All staff will maintain security measures to create a safe and secure learning environment for students. These measures are implemented for the sole purpose of protecting your children.

Main Entrance

The school’s main entrance is on the south end of the building parallel to the Sawgrass Expressway.  This is the only accessible entrance and exit.  All doors will be locked at all times.  School personnel will permit entrance after camera identification.  The North entrance will only be used for morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up and will only be opened by school staff.

Classroom Doors

Individual classroom doors will remain locked at all times.  Students will only be allowed in the hallways with a pass and will always be accompanied by another student or teacher.

STANDARDIZED TESTING

A national norm-referenced achievement test will be administered to students during the spring of each year.  This achievement test is a tool to help parents, teachers and the administration evaluate the progress of each student.  The tests also permit the school to evaluate the effectiveness of our academic program.  Individual student test results will be distributed to parents with the last report card.  The IOWA test is currently being used.

TARDINESS

Punctuality promotes good habits and allows the school to function in an orderly manner.  Therefore, the family is encouraged to see that the student arrives 15 minutes before the class day begins.  Students will be considered tardy after the tardy bell rings to begin the day at 8:30 a.m.  Students who are tardy must report to the office to receive a tardy slip.  

To receive an excused tardy for a medical appointment, a doctor’s note must be provided to the office upon arrival.

 More than 5 tardies in a quarter will result in detention. Tardies will reset quarterly.

To receive an excused tardy for a medical appointment, a doctor’s note must be provided to the

office upon arrival.

• 11:00am is the cut off with a doctors note.

• 9:30am is the cut off without a doctors note. 

UNIFORMS

Uniform orders will take place twice a year. The beginning of the year and again mid-way through the year. If uniforms are needed in between these times parents can visit the CBG online merch-shop.

Students are required to wear the following GCA approved uniform items:

Shirts

·      GCA/CBG short or long-sleeved T-shirts in (any colors)

·      CBG Camp United or CBG KIDZ shirts 

Bottoms

·      Navy or khaki shorts (including cargo shorts) skorts, capris, or pants purchased in the uniform section of any major store

·      Girls’ shorts or skorts must be mid-to-knee length

·      No jeans

·      Girls in Kindergarten – 2nd grade may wear jeggings provided the T-shirt covers their bottom

PE Days

·      GCA uniform shorts or GCA uniform joggers

Shoes

·      Closed shoes (heel & toe) must be worn every day

·      No high-heeled shoes or heeled boots (heels present a safety hazard)

·      Flat rubber soled boots are permissible

Outerwear

·      GCA/CBG jackets, hoodies, and sweatshirts (any color)

·      No hats or hoods are allowed in the classroom

·      Solid-colored, long-sleeved t-shirts may be worn under uniform shirts

On special, non-uniform days, jeans can be worn with an acceptable shirt. Please make sure there is no inappropriate language or graphic on the shirt.  No sleeveless, strappy or cold-shoulder shirts will be permitted. Jeans must not have rips, holes or any skin showing.

No jackets, tops, bottoms or clothing of any kind with writing or pictures, other than official CBG/GCA apparel, will be allowed to be worn on campus during school hours.

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

Parents must notify the school within thirty days to initiate the withdrawal of a student.  The parent is requested to have an exit interview with the principal before the student is withdrawn from Glades Christian Academy.  Transcripts of students will be sent to other institutions when requested by the institution, assuming all account balances are current. 

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**This handbook is subject to change as needed with or without notice.