Parent/Student Handbook & Directory2016-2017

Houston Christian School Box 237, Houston, BC V0J 1Z0

PHONE (250) 845-7736

www.houstonchristianschool.ca

A school with “trees planted by streams of water,

yielding fruit in season.” (Psalm 1:3)

1Home of the Wildcats

Table of Contents

Vision Statement………………………………………………………………………………..3

Gratitude Code…..……………………………………………………………………………..4

Elementary School …………………………………………………………………………….8

50 Things parents can do……………………………………………………………………...10

High School…………………………………………………………………………………….12

Discipline……………………………………………………………………………………….18

Athletics………………………………………………………………………………………...27

Tuition………………………………………………………………………………………….31

Calendar………………………………………………………………………………………..32

School Directory……………………………………………………………………………….33

“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree

planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does

prospers.

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Mission Statement:

Educating, Engaging, Equiping....to the Glory of God.

We are committed, in faith, to a world and life view which is Reformed in emphasis and character, solidly rooted in God’s infallible Word.

We especially recognize the need for home, church, and school to work together in enabling students to apply Biblical values to all areas of life.

We aim to provide a secure environment in which students are able to develop academically, spiritually, physically, socially, artistically and emotionally.

We recognize the uniqueness of each student and encourage them to develop their varied gifts to the glory of God.

We want our children to be equipped with discernment and confidence, to be committed to stewardship, and to increase their desire to imitate Christ, so that through the power of the Holy Spirit they will work towards transforming society rather than conforming to it.

God’s Calling for Students:

to become followers of Jesus in every area of their lives, both at home and in school, in their learning and in their play, in their private and public lives.

to explore, understand, and celebrate knowledge about God’s creation and His norms for living and, in this way, to know more about God.

to develop their God-given abilities in order to extend the “kingdom of God.” The will of God is for a kingdom of righteousness and love, a place where shalom, joy and delight reign.

HOUSTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

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GRATITUDE CODEAs I learn about God and His world, I will begin to see myself as having the following roles in being a Follower of Jesus in His world: Artist:

In God’s image, I will seek pattern and design, will create and enjoy beauty.

Athlete:

Using my body, I will enjoy what it can do.

Builder:

By loving others, I will build community.

Caretaker:

Everything I have, including myself, is a gift. I will take care of it.

Detective:

I will understand what desires and temptations keep me from loving God.

Learner:

I will learn about, discover and celebrate God’s creation.

Seeker:

I will seek to make sure things are fair for everyone, not just myself.

Servant Leader:

I will want to do good for others.

Storyteller:

I will hear and tell stories of the good news of God’s kingdom.

Worshipper:

I will accept Jesus as God or choose myself as god.

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Out of gratitude to God for who I am and what He has done, I want to learn and discover how to live this out in the HCS community. With the help of the Spirit of Jesus and others, I can perform the listed behaviours, attitudes and habits in the following areas:

1. Academic: I will . . . be honest. finish my assignments on time. work neatly where appropriate. work to the best of my abilities. learn and apply skills of organization. participate appropriately.

2. Use of Time: I will . . . use class time well. avoid last minute finishing of assignments. schedule out work for long term projects. allow others to work undisturbed. help others when appropriate. practice study skills at home.

3. Relationships: I can expect the staff to:

help me academically, socially, emotionally, spiritually. respect, encourage me and listen to me. be kind and patient with me. have reasonable rules for us. understand that students have different learning styles. display a sense of humour and fun. ask me for forgiveness when wrong. confront me gently when wronged. pray for me.

In my relationships to staff, I will: give staff proper respect. voice disagreement with proper voice tone. voice disagreement at the proper time. listen appropriately. show courtesy. ask forgiveness when wrong. confront others properly when wronged. help when asked or see a need. pray for my teachers.

In my relationship to other students, I will:

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respect others with the same respect I want. use others’ belongings only with permission. listen appropriately. befriend others younger or different than me. befriend new students. ask for forgiveness when wrong. confront others properly when wronged. serve where I can. help make this school a safe place. show respect for other gender, other races and cultures. physically touch in encouraging ways. (High School students: no PDA please ) pray for my friends and enemies.

4. Language: I will . . . greet visitors and newcomers with hospitality. seek help in conflicts I cannot resolve. respect other languages and races. respect new ideas. listen when others speak. speak kindly to and about others. encourage others. use God’s name with respect. avoid name calling. avoid vulgar or rude words. not put others down. not put myself down.

5. Treatment of school grounds, buildings, furniture: I will . . . respect God’s world: trees, shrubs, facilities. dispose of garbage properly. treat books, desks and chairs with care. recycle when possible.

6. Care of my body: I will . . . see my body as God’s temple. accept physical fitness as important. maintain proper sleeping habits. practice good hygiene. eat nutritiously.

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7. Clothing: I will . . . wear clean, neat clothes. avoid extremes in clothing that call attention to myself. avoid shirts with inappropriate slogans. avoid revealing clothing. wear proper footwear. only wear hats outside.

8. Public Assemblies: I will …

“cheer for, not against” in competitive games. give my full attention to presenters. watch performances with dignity. leave a place cleaner than when I arrived. use electronic devices only with teacher approval.

Online safety:

Realities and Responsibilities: Online Etiquette and Dangers

You are polite and respectful in school...be polite and respectful online. If you join Facebook, read the rules: you are not allowed to say or show anything that is

mean to others. Don't lie.  For example: you are not allowed to join Facebook until you are 13. Report meanness online to your parent, trusted friend or an adult, or to Facebook (if that

is where it is happening).  Do not respond online to a mean comment or photo.  Instead, get a paper copy of it to log the incident.

Delete or do not use hurtful or mean comments. Delete or do not use inappropriate pictures. Delete unknown "friends".  Limit site to only your real friends. Delete personal information that unknown people might use. Remember, the internet has a long memory: do not use it to do anything that will come

back to haunt you in one, two, five or ten years from now. Do not take or share inappropriate photos online. Do not share your passwords with friends. Teacher computers must not be used by students. Access to the computer room or wireless system (for students with laptops) is available

only by direct permission from a teacher. Remember school computers (and yours) may not be used to create, transmit, or receive

any offensive or disruptive messages. Offensive messages contain sexual implications or jokes; or, comment offensively on a person’s race, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or religion; defame others; or intrude on another’s privacy or social conditions.

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Elementary School: Kindergarten – Grade SixWelcome to Houston Christian School! It’s our prayer that your years in Grades K-6 will be pleasant, that the days and weeks will be filled with the satisfaction of learning things, with the growth of friendship, with the sounds of singing and that you will sense how much God loves you.

Report CardsStudent progress through the school subjects will be formally reported to parents three times on report cards. Telephone calls will be made and other notes will be sent as necessary. The learning assistance teacher is available to help students experiencing difficulties. Students, teachers and parents will work carefully and cooperatively so that each student can make effective progress.

Daily Schedule8:20 a.m. Doors open8:30 a.m. Classes begin10:00-10:20 a.m. Recess12:00 p.m. Lunch12:45 p.m. Afternoon classes begin3:00 p.m. Dismissal1:55 p.m. Thursday early dismissal

Students are required to attend school except for illness or other legitimate reasons as determined by parents. Parents are asked to call the school when students are to be kept at home. The secretary keeps attendance records on the computer.

Entering the SchoolThe doors will be opened for students to come in to school at 8:20 a.m. Students are to remain on the playground until teachers invite students to enter the school. On cold winter days when the temperature is less than -15°, the principal or a teacher will open the doors so that students can wait in the entrance for school to begin. It should be noted that the playground is not officially supervised before school.

On the PlaygroundRecess and noon-hour are fine times for most students. Playing together is easy and fun but it needs lots of respect for each other. It’s especially important for young Christians to watch out for weaker students, for those who are shy and for those who find it hard to make friends. Always treat others with kindness and friendliness. Don’t make fun of them; don’t call them names; don’t push or hurt them.

Once at school, students must not leave the school grounds until it is time to go home. Students are not permitted to go to nearby stores at recess, noon-hour or while waiting for the bus or ride home.

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Noon-HourLunch is to be eaten in the classroom within a 15 minute time limit. Any remaining food is to be eaten outside. Teachers will maintain a presence in the room during eating period.

TelephoneStudents are not to make arrangements to visit friends with the office telephone. Teachers will give students a pass to use the office telephone when appropriate. Elementary students are not to use the telephone in the foyer without permission of a teacher as this telephone is there for the convenience of high school students and for those who rent the gymnasium.

MedicationsNo medications will be administered to students without permission from parents. Written directions for any long term medications to be administered under the instructions of a medical doctor need to be provided for the school and will be placed in the student file.

Field TripsField trips may be arranged by teachers as part of the regular course work or for class outings. Skating at the arena requires skates and either a bicycle or hockey helmet. For field trips, parents will be given the appropriate information as needed.

Classroom Routines:Your teacher will let you know of routines in your classroom so that you have a great learning environment.Electronic devices need to be turned off and put away before entering the classroom (including 10 min break), otherwise a teacher will take care of it for you during the day.

ShoesPlease put outside shoes on the shelf in the boot room.Outside/Dirty shoes must come off.

Kitchen and Computer RoomBoth the computer room and the kitchen and all its supplies are completely off limits without specific permission. Please ask the office staff if you would like to borrow items.

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50…Houston Christian School believes that home and school work together to educate children. It is the God given task of parents to raise and educate their child. So we offer here a limited list of 50 things parents can do to encourage their children in Christian education:

1. Read to your child.2. Pray with your child.3. Recognize that you are the most important factors in your child’s education.4. You are your child’s biggest advocate. 5. You are your child’s best cheerleader. Be enthusiastic about your child’s

progress. This encourages children to take their education seriously.6. Children of all ages need attention, affection, appreciation and acceptance.7. Ask more specific questions about what your child did in school. This not only tells your

child you are interested, but you are more informed as well. Example: “What did you do in math today?” is a better question than “How was your day?”

8. Be aware of how children learn. 9. Be aware of how your child learns. Pass this knowledge on to their teacher.10. Read an age or language appropriate Bible with your child.11. Pray with and for your child.12. Be realistic about your goals for your child. 13. Get involved with your child’s homework and talk about it.14. Be aware of your child’s behaviour changes.15. Participate in school events.16. Attend parent teacher conferences. 17. Volunteer at school activities.18. Keep asking about what your child is learning, even when they are in high school.19. At home, set routines that are consistent. For example, set times for homework, chores,

play time, and dinner together.20. Read to your child.21. Pray with your child for your child’s teachers.22. Be involved in the decisions of your child’s education.23. Use driving-in-the-car time to talk to your child about school activities.24. Give books as gifts.25. Model reading: read too.

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26. Celebrate your family roots. This helps build self-esteem.27. Tell your kids you love them and tell them what you like about them.28. Encourage your child to learn from problems.29. Discipline your kids in a quiet voice.30. Read to your child.31. Have your child pray with and for others.32. Remember that report cards are only a small piece of the assessment puzzle.33. Study for tests with your child.34. Remember that your attitudes affect your child. Example: You may have hated French in

school, but it is possible that your child may love it. Don’t jaundice them. 35. Estimation is an important skill you can help teach your child: estimate cost, or distance,

or volume in every day events.36. Have your child teach you the concepts…a teacher always learns more.37. Show your child how to break down a big job into small steps.38. Encourage responsibility and working independently.39. Encourage your children to ask questions.40. Read to your children.41. Let your child lead in prayer at family devotions.42. Homework time:

a. Have a regular place for them to do it.b. Have a regular time.c. Don’t have a tv around. A good rule is…no screen time until all homework is

done.d. Help your child plan how they will use their homework time.e. Do the hardest homework first.f. Do the most important homework first.g. Review their homework when they are done.

43. Don’t do the homework for your child.44. After reading with your child, interact with them about what you read together.45. Practice math facts with your child.46. Learn the Bible memory verses with your child.47. Visit the public library or bookstore together.48. Review sights words or vocabulary together.49. Read to your child.50. Pray for your child’s future and future spouse.

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High School: Grade Seven – Grade TwelveSchool Schedule: 8:30-8:50 Homeroom8:55-10:10 Block 110:10-10:20 Morning Break10:25-11:40 Block 211:40-12:20 Lunch Break12:25-1:40 Period 31:40-1:45 Afternoon Break1:45-3:00 Period 4

Thursday Schedule:

8:30-9:00 HS/All sing9:00- 10:00 Block 110:00-10:20 1st Break10:25-11:25 Block 211:25-12:05 Lunch12:05-1:05 Block 31:10-2:10 Block 4

Courses and Course SelectionStudents in grades 7-10 must take the classes presented in the course schedule.

Students in Gr. 7 and 8 are required to take French and fine arts by provincial policy unless an Individual Education Plan is on file in the principal’s office.

Gr. 11 & 12 students will be asked to make course selections for the following school year from a list of choices presented in the spring. The course list will vary from year to year as student interests and teacher expertise change. Of the courses offered, only those with sufficient student enrolment for the following year will be taught.

It is possible for a student to become a Secondary School Apprentice. A student accepted to that program is able to have his or her hours at work count for both credit towards high school graduation and credit towards the completion of apprenticeship requirements. To gain the benefit of the program, the student needs a job under the supervision of a journeyman apprentice. Ask the principal for further information.

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Graduation RequirementsIn order to meet graduation requirements and be awarded a British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood), students must earn a minimum of 80 credits to graduate. These must include 48 credits for required courses, a minimum of 28 elective credits, and 4 credits for Graduation Transitions—16 credits must be at the Grade 12 level.

Required Courses: Credits must be earned in the following subject areas:

• a Language Arts 10 (4 credits) • a Language Arts 11 (4 credits) • a Language Arts 12 (4 credits) • a Social Studies 10 (4 credits) • a Social Studies 11 (4 credits) • a Mathematics 10 (4 credits) • a Mathematics 11 or 12 (4 credits) • a Science 10 (4 credits) • a Science 11 or 12 (4 credits) • a Physical Education 10 (4 credits) • a Fine Arts and/or an Applied Skills 10, 11, or 12 (4 credits) • Planning 10 (4 credits) • 28 elective credits• Graduation Transition (4 credits)In addition the board of Houston Christian school requires all students to earn credits in the Bible 10, Bible 11 and Bible 12.

Instructional ServicesThe goal of the secondary teachers is to provide students sufficient instruction, help and encouragement for passing the courses and successfully completing the school year. Students, of course, must take responsibility for using the resources and services available at HCS.

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Distance Education CoursesThere are no longer any additional costs to taking distance education courses. It does require the approval of the principal and parents, and the student needs to make a “promise of performance” about completing the course.

TextbooksThe school will lend students the required textbooks for each course but expects students to take good care of them since a text can cost up to $80. A textbook is normally expected to last at least five years.1. Excessive ink markings in a book (5 pages or more) will result in the student being charged 25% of the cost of replacing the book.2. Lost books will be charged using the following formula: 100% of replacement cost of a new text, 80% of a one-year old text, 60% of a two-year old text, and so on.3. Students will be expected to pay for damaged books. For each additional year of wear undergone by the text, the student will be charged 20% of the original cost.

SuppliesRegular supplies (paper, pens, pencils, rulers, etc.) are not provided by the school for high school students. Certain courses have certain requirements. Check with the teacher as to specific supplies for that course.

Good Schooling–Four Routines1. Be on Time

Missing classes and coming late disrupts learning and classroom procedures. Miss school only as a last resort. Arrive well ahead of the bell, not five or more seconds after. If easily late in the morning, get up earlier to be on time. Secondary students must be sitting in their desks before the bell sounds to avoid being assigned a “U” for being unprepared. A set of three U’s means a detention during noon-hour for secondary students.

2. Bring the Right ThingsBring the correct materials–textbooks, notebooks and writing instruments–for each subject area. Keep careful track of textbooks; many are worth $50 or more. Get good notebooks, take good notes, bring everything you need–pens, pencils, compasses, gym clothes.

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3. Do the Right ActivitiesDo the schoolwork and complete assignments on time. Do homework…without fail. Students with incomplete homework will be given detentions. Effective learning also needs class participation. Give the class discussions a lot of energy. In the evenings, study, review and make additional notes on the topics covered. Use wise study skills.

Students must do the school activities assigned by each teacher–it’s the law of British Columbia (A student must comply with the school rules authorized by the principal of the school or provincial school attended by the student. Section 6) For example, students must participate in the lesson, do the quiz, and complete the assignment. There are no automatic releases from that obligation because of arriving late, being absent or any other reason. Only the teacher can release students from their academic (legal) obligations. An absent student should check with a classmate by telephone about the academic obligations for the next day.

In general, students need to keep good records of assignments and upcoming tests. School Agendas can help do that. We encourage parents to get one for their students a stationery store.

4. Develop the Right AttitudeRespect teachers and students. Ensure that class members are allowed to work and learn in a quiet and orderly environment free of interruptions. Offer up-building comments to your classmates, both about them as young Christians and about the course work they do. Don’t ridicule school events or make sarcastic comments about people. Help dignify all of your associates, i.e., love one another in the name of Jesus. This is comes out of an attitude of gratitude for Him.

Other Essentials for HS Students

MedicationsNo medications will be administered to students without permission from parents. A written directive to be placed on file in the office must accompany long term medications that are to be administered under the instructions of a medical doctor.

School FunctionsAll of the school rules, and punishments associated with those rules, will apply to all school functions, including school sponsored extracurricular activities, and school activities held off school property.

Admission to BuildingExcept in inclement weather, students in grades 7-8 may only enter the building after 8:20 am and students in grades 9-12 may enter only after 8:00 am.

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Student VisitorsNon-school visitors are generally not welcome to visit with our students during noon-hours or spares. The school is not a public area like a mall. Students with out-of-town guests may seek permission to have their guest attend classes for a day. Ask the principal and teachers for permission. The student who invites the visitor will be responsible for his or her guest’s behaviour. Should the guest not comply with school rules and etiquette, he or she will be asked to leave the school and grounds.

CarsStudents bringing cars or trucks to school must park them on the north side of the secondary entrance. Please back into the parking area so that departures are safer at the end of the school day. Avoid parking on the opposite side of the road. Drive slowly when exiting or entering the parking area–young children are around–and don’t spin the wheels on the gravel.

Lunch BreakGr. 7- 10 students should generally remain on the school grounds during noon hour, but may go to either store next to the school. Please stay on the west side of Mountainview Road. Students in Gr. 11 & 12, however, may leave the school grounds at noon or spare periods.

AttendanceStudents are required to attend school regularly. Funding for our school’s operations from the Ministry of Ed. requires an absentee’s excuse to be recorded. Our school’s funding may be affected depending on the number of days a student has unexcused absences. In some extreme cases of unexcused absenteeism, we have and will ask families to make up the difference in the funding we lose. Students are expected to catch up with missed work. It is polite to ask teachers for assignments before being absent—but note that teachers are not required to provide such work and the responsibility to catch up on missed work belongs to the students. Students that do not complete missed work may be sent to lunch Study Hall or receive a zero on the assignment at the end of the term—this will affect their overall scores.

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Shoes on the ShelvesPut your shoes on the shelves – there is room for 120 pairs. Put on your inside shoes in the foyer. Shoes left lying on the floor in the boot room will be taken away.

Lockers/LocksStudents will be assigned lockers at the beginning of the school year. Lockers need to be closed and the administration recommends that students lock their lockers with a combination lock—as the school is not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen items. The combination must be submitted to the office. Lockers are the property of the school and the school administration reserves the right to inspect a locker without notice.

Fire Drills/Emergency ProceduresFire drills and other emergency drills will be practiced regularly. When signaled to do so, students are to exit the room and building in a calm and orderly manner and obey the instructions provided by the teacher. If required to evacuate the premises, students will walk to the Christian Reformed Church.

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Discipline Procedures1. Respect

a. This is a learning community. Students and teachers are to treat each other with respect. How do we treat each other with respect?

Saying please and thank you Offering apologies when you have inconvenienced or hurt someone Allow others to speak without interrupting Use words that do not antagonize. It has been said: “You have to earn my respect.” This is an error of thinking—if

you give respect, you will also receive it.

2. Preparednessa. You are expected to come to class prepared. Bring the correct materials:

textbooks, notebooks (computers) and writing instruments, and gym clothes for Physical Education.

b. You are required to take care of your textbooks—some of them can cost in excess of $50.00. Students are responsible for loss and damage.

c. Continual lack of preparedness will result in a detention for defiance to teacher expectations.

3. Latenessa. Missing classes and coming late disrupts learning and classroom procedures.

Arrive ahead of the bell. If you are late, students must check in at the office and receive a late slip that will be marked either excused or unexcused (late slip must be handed to the teacher—the teacher must destroy it upon reading it).

4. Classroom expectationsa. Teachers must create and enforce classroom expectations. Create a list of

expectations that is posted or accessible for students to reference. These expectations must be consistent, realistic, and remedial.

b. Teachers are expected to adapt and utilize Servant Led Discipline in an effort to effectively prevent discipline issues through: Preventative Measures, Relational Response, and Restorative Practice.

5. Shoesa. Please remove outdoor shoes. Students that continually refuse to wear proper

indoor footwear may find themselves mopping the floor to the Principal’s satisfaction.

b. Escalation of this misbehavior will result in detentions for defiance.

6. Microwave (High School only)a. Please keep the microwave clean or students will lose the privilege.

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7. Gym use:a. Only indoor/athletic shoes are allowed in the gym. A Detention (High School

only) will be given to any student that demonstrates defiance to this expectation.b. Students must have specific permission to use the gym and equipment and all

equipment must be put away.c. There is to be no rough play, forceful contact, or other dangerous activity—

students that do not follow this expectations will find themselves without the privilege,

8. Academic Offenses: Students are expected to present their own ideas and work. This does not mean that students cannot reference other sources—however, in ALL cases, students must use either a bibliography or works cited page to demonstrate where they got all ideas not their own. PLAGERISM is a form of cheating.

a. HIGH SCHOOLi. If a student is found cheating, the student will receive an automatic zero

on that assignment or test. ii. A second instance of cheating will result in the student meeting with the

principal and receive an automatic zero on that assignment.iii. A third instance of cheating will result in the student meeting with parents

and the principal. The student will receive an automatic zero for the assignment and an in-school suspension.

iv. Further instances will result in suspension and possibly expulsion.b. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL—Teachers will have a conversation with the student

about cheating. Progressive actions for repeated academic offenses include: meeting the principal and calls home to parents. Elementary School students must redo the assignment.

9. Failing a Course & Extensions:a. HIGH SCHOOL

i. It is possible for students to fail a course and they will be required to either (a) complete the course over the summer via correspondence or Distance Learning or (b) retake the course when it is offered again—but note that some courses are only offered every other year.

ii. Students may receive extensions on courses for certain legitimate reasons—however, the extension must be a written agreement between the teacher and the student and when the deadline passes, the student will be considered failed in the course. However, in reporting the students will be marked as Incomplete.

b. At both ELEMENTARY and HIGH SCHOOL levels, if a student is failing a course, there is a potential of that student going on a Learning Assistance Plan the next Academic Year and continue until they have achieved the needed level of success.

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10. Language Offenses: Language that is used to demean others is not permitted—this can take the form of coarse language, degrading language and even demeaning tone.

a. Students will be required to apologize and make amends in such instances that language offenses occur.

b. Continual language offenses will likely result in a detention (High School only) and/or a meeting with parents and/or the Principal.

11. Inappropriate Clothing: Clothing that sexualizes men and/or women are degrading to our Christian worldview; or clothing that in other ways is inappropriate such as containing vulgar and blatant un-Christian sentiment are not permitted. As well, all High School students are expected to wear gym clothes during Physical Education class.

a. Student will be asked to change into P.E. clothes. b. If clothing offenses continue to occur, the student will receive a detention (High

School only) for defiance. c. Further instances will result in suspension and possibly expulsion.d. Elementary School students’ parents will be called on first offense.

12. Treatment of school groundsa. If a student litters, they will be asked to pick up garbage.b. If a student destroys or defaces property, the student will be required to pay for

the damage. The parent will be notified.

13. Fightinga. If a student is involved in a physical altercation with another student, the teacher

on duty or the nearest supervision person on duty will deal with the incident. If a further discussion is needed students may be sent to the Principal.

b. Students will be expected to make amends by apologizing and shaking hands.c. If the physical altercations continue between the same students, progressive

discipline will happen, including phone calls home to parents.d. If there is injury during a physical altercation, whether the first offense or not, the

Principal must be involved and phone calls home to both sets of parents.e. The Principal may give other suitable consequences, up-to and/or including

suspension or expulsion.

14. Illegal Substances & Weapons: HCS opposes any involvement with illegal drugs, alcohol or weapons on school property or at school functions off school property. The school and property are smoke free zones and the use of tobacco is prohibited.

a. These items will be confiscated immediately and destroyed. Parents will be contacted. If a student continues to bring illegal substances and/or weapons, the Principal and Board will consider expulsion.

b. Depending on the severity of the illegal substance or weapon the RCMP may be contacted and involved.

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15. Technology & Social Mediaa. Students are permitted to possess and access personal technological devices, such

as cell phones, iPods or MP3 players, tablets and computers—during breaks.b. However, misuse or inappropriate use of such devices will result in confiscation

for the duration of the rest of the day and may be collected in the office.c. Teachers have the authority to determine what technology access in their

classroom looks like—whether that is a no cell phone zone, or more permissive. Students are expected to know and follow teacher expectations and must not compare technology access between teachers as different classes have different uses for technology.

d. Teachers have the authority to take any device that is causing a distraction—but they are to return it at the end of the class.

e. Cameras are never to be used in change rooms—this is an ILLEGAL activity and the RCMP may become involved if it is found that a student has taken pictures in the change rooms while other students are changing.

16. Acts of Unkindness: An Act of Unkindness is any action of a student who deliberately behaves in a mean-spirited way. This does not necessarily mean bullying or fighting; but it causes distress, either emotional or physical to another person.

a. Students will be expected to make amends for any Act of Unkindness, by offering an apology and/or offering to intentionally act in a way of kindness towards the distressed student.

b. Continued acts of unkindness towards the same or other students will result in progressive consequences such as detentions, suspension and even expulsion.

17. Defiance: Defiance takes different forms, but it amounts to intentional disrespect of a person in authority, either repeated or a one-off instance. All defiant behaviors will receive a detention (High School only). Repeated defiance will involve a call to parents, meeting with parents & principal, suspension and even expulsion.

a. It is expected that students seek to heal relationships where they have acted in a defiant manner. Teachers in turn will also seek to heal that relationship by forgiving when reconciliation has been determined.

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18. Detentionable Offenses—HIGH SCHOOL ONLYa. Students will receive detentions primarily in instances of defiance and/or acts of

aggression.b. Students that receive and/or serve 5 detentions will move into a double detention

status, for every earned detention, the student will have to serve 2.c. Students may not earn a detention for missing assignments or homework (see

Study Hall section below).d. Teachers will determine in their classes, where the line between student

forgetfulness and coming to class unprepared and when actual defiance occur.

Detentions will be served on Wednesday afterschool from 3:10-4:00. Detentions are meant to be times of reflection. There is to be no talking, no working on homework, or listening to music. Failure to attend a Detention will immediately result in a double detention given—unless arrangements have been made ahead of time.

19. Homework—This is a heated issue in some schools and families. Homework assignments have potential of creating unjust and unfair situations as far as assessments are concerned.

a. ELEMENTARY SCHOOLi. Homework must NOT be used to determine a grade. For example,

incomplete homework cannot equate to a failing grade.ii. Homework can only be an extension of learning. For example, teachers

may develop a reading program that involves students practicing what they have already learned in class. There cannot be any marks attributed to completion of the reading program.

iii. A good guideline for time spent on homework in Grades 1-3: take the grade level and multiply by 10 minutes, 2 or 3 times per week.

iv. A good guideline for time spent on homework in Grades 4-6: 30-40 minutes maximum, 2 or 3 times per week.

b. HIGH SCHOOLi. Homework must only be an extension of learning already completed in the

classroom.ii. Students cannot be penalized academically for incomplete homework.

iii. A good guideline for time spent on homework at the High School level is 50-60 minutes for all subjects.

Study Hall will be served on Monday, Wednesday & Friday at lunch recess. Study Hall is not a Detention and will not be tracked as such. Skipping of Study Hall may result in a Detention because it becomes an act of defiance.Study Hall is NOT cumulative as Study Hall is seen as time for students to catch up on missed assignments and incomplete homework. For example, a student that fails to complete homework on Tuesday and Wednesday morning will only have to serve the one Study Hall on Wednesday, at lunch.Students may also GET OUT of Study Hall if they show, to the satisfaction of the assigning teacher, that the homework or assignment has been completed.

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Sexual Harassment All students and all school employees are expected to conduct themselves with respect

for the dignity of others. Sexual harassment includes making unwelcome sexual advances, engaging in improper

physical contact, making improper sexual comments or otherwise creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive school environment.

Students should report inappropriate student conduct or contact to a staff member, principal or parent.

If there are concerns about the conduct or physical contact of an adult employed by the school or by a member of the public, students should immediately report this concern to a trusted staff member, principal or parents.

HCS Bullying PolicyBullying is currently a volatile issue in our society.  Bullying is in the headlines and many experts have given quick fix solutions to this issue.  However, bullying is a very complex social interaction and occurs at every level of life and in every culture. We do not want to be blind to the fact that it can happen in our school and in our families and, often, even in our churches.

It is important to be able to clarify terms what we mean when use the word bullying.  Bullying is usually defined as (1) verbal or physical aggression that is (2) repeated over time and (3) involves a power difference - where one individual has more power than another.  

Power differential is the most important element in bullying incidents. A student that has more power than another often uses it to elevate their own social status.  Bullying comes in all forms: verbal taunting, physical violence, excluding the "other" in a social relationship, online comments putting another down, talking negatively about another's behavior, clothing, etc.  

The Bible speaks much about the misuse of power.  In the Old Testament God continually shows his concern for the alien and stranger (bullies often pick on those who are "strange", different from us...), the widow, the outcast, the downtrodden, the poor.  Justice for the victim is a huge theme in God's story.

 Jesus recognized the bullies in his culture: those who had physical and social and spiritual power and how they used it to put down and keep others down.  Jesus resisted the temptations of Satan and even of his disciples to use his power to accomplish his purposes.  Jesus is God and yet laid aside power to bring redemption: "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus; Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made

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himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant...he humbled himself and became obedient to death- even death on a cross!"  Phil. 2.5-8

We need to recognize that not every altercation between students is bullying.  A fight or a one-time aggressive verbal or physical altercation or some "drama" between students is not considered bullying.  Children can do mean things to each other that may not be bullying.  AT HCS, if we see a child being mean, we will intervene. ("If it's mean, we will intervene.")  But let us be slow to label every negative incident as bullying or every mean incident as perpetrated by a bully.  

Bullies can be categorized into five categories:

(1) the physical brute acting out of malice (we often seen characterized in cartoons or movies);

(2) a student who tries to act tough but is a bit clueless and may not do it out of malice;

(3) bully-victims- those who bully others and but are also victims of other bullies;

(4) the socially popular student who uses their power to put and keep others down (kids often bully when they can gain social status- they will bully for social gain...);

(5) the Facebook bully - a person who is mean online but not in person.

There are some who demand zero tolerance for bullying and want automatic banishment for bullies.  Yet we recognize that power is present in all of our relationships and that brokenness in our relationships means that we can expect brokenness in the use of power.  Mean words and conflicts will happen in our school. But we will not bully, or use our power to exclude bullies from our community. There will be consequences to negative behavior, but we will offer opportunities for healing and restitution and restoration.

In summary, bullying can be present in Christian schools, communities, and relationships.  We are broken people in need of grace, but often we do not offer grace to those weaker than us.   However, let us be cautious in labeling others and in immediately seeking vengeance and punishment.  Ultimately, we want the grace of Jesus to allow for restitution and healing in our brokenness.

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What can students do?

Respect others: "Treat others as you want to be treated."

Recognize that you have power.  Don't use your social or physical power to put others down.

Realize that most meanness is not bullying.

If you see someone being mean or being bullied, safely intervene. Try to safely stop it. Or find someone you trust who can stop it.  Remember that most bullying is done in front of other kids, not adults.  You don't have to be a bystander.

Don't label anyone as a bully.  They may not be. If you think you are being bullied, talk to a trusted adult. If you are being bullied online, you can ask the website to take down the offensive

material.  Get a copy of the offensive material. Talk to a trusted adult. If you think you are being bullied, get witnesses and/or copies of the offensive material

and give it to a trusted adult.

What can parents do?

Recognize that many times kids will not report things to their parents out of fear that the parents will overreact which will create even more problems.

Recognize that it is our responsibility to raise our children but that kids need freedom to figure out their own troubles.  Not every altercation your child has is bullying.

Recognize that bullying is complex and not clear cut so gather information if you suspect your child is being bullied or may be bullying.

Recognize that your child may be a bully or perhaps a bully-victim or perhaps even a "Facebook bully".  Our children are sinful.

Don't label any other child as a bully. Don't jump to conclusions.  Childhood and teenage conflict may be just that - a conflict, a

drama, and not bullying.   Listen.  Ask lots of questions.  Document behavior and incidents that show this may not

be a one-time event but a bullying behavior. Don't jump to conclusions: it is imperative that you and the school take its time in

gathering all the information of what is usually a complex issue in which denial and accusations are common.

Monitor online behaviour...you need to talk with your child about online security and know what is going on online.

Recognize that most students would rather be suspended from school than have their Facebook account suspended.

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What can staff do?

See parent section above.  Apply the same.  We are working with parents in educating their child.

Listen. Encourage positive behaviours. Make school a safe and happy place for students. Don't label any child as a bully.

What can administration do?

Listen to students and parents and staff. Encourage school routine that reduces drama and power abuse. Take seriously any complaint about mean conflict or drama. Seek restitution and restoration of relationships. Involve students, staff and parents in the process as appropriate. Create awareness of the issue of bullying and keeping the school a safe place to learn and

grow.

Sources: NIV Bible; Sticks and Stones by Emily Bazlon; The Bully, The Bullied, and The Bystander by Barbara Colorossa

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Physical Education and Athletic ProgramThe Physical Education program aims to have students develop and maintain physical fitness and good health. As well, students will be taught to learn and enjoy a variety of games and sports. Physical Education courses focus on physical health and fitness;skill development; and understanding, participating in and enjoying games.

The largest part of a student’s mark is derived from attitude, effort and understanding the activities. (A few written tests are involved in measuring the level of understanding in older grades.) A small portion of the mark is derived from individual skill levels.Students must have proper clothes for active participation: good athletic shoes for indoor use, athletic style shorts (no cutoffs) or sweat pants/tear aways and a t-shirt/sweat shirt (not sleeveless).

Failure to have these clothes for class will result in a “U” for being unprepared. Students must change before and after PE classes-the same clothes may not be worn for both PE class and other classes. HCS athletic uniforms are not to be worn except for games.

Students unable to participate in a specific class due to injury or illness need to bring a note from a parent prior to class. Alternate activities or a written

assignment will be given.

Athletic ProgramThe HCS athletic program is available to students in Gr. 7-12. The governance of the Northwest Zone Athletic Association (NWZAA) and British Columbia School Sports (BCSS) apply to the sports. Our school is a member of each organization and we abide by its rules for competition, eligibility and other matters.

Students are encouraged to participate in school sports-the discipline and pleasure are wonderful benefits to Christian growth. Participation in team sports do have fees to offset the cost of travel, officiating, and Tim Hortons’ coffee.

Gym UseStudent activities in the gym require teacher permission and supervision. Proper footwear is required at all times. The four emergency exit doors are for emergencies, not for cooling the gym or for leaving the building. An alarm will go off if they are opened.

Both elementary and secondary students use the gymnasium during regular school time, during noon-hours and after school. Schedules are made to ensure a reasonable equity. Students must not assume any rights for using the gym, especially during noon hours and after school. Common courtesy, respectfulness and generous spirits help maintain a good atmosphere for everyone.

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Athletic Participation PolicyThe goals and guidelines of the inter-school athletic program are• To provide opportunities to develop and practice athletic skills in competitive situations.• To provide opportunities for advanced skill development.• To provide opportunities to develop as “team players.”• To provide opportunities to develop and practice Christian witnessing in competitive situations.

To participate in our athletic program a student must:1. Be registered and attend Houston Christian School. Players must join teams at the beginning of the season and be committed to practicing and playing the entire season. (Quitting requires parental consent and may result in the loss of future athletic privileges. 2. Respect the referees and officials... even if calls are wrong.3. Respect the coach. (He or she volunteers a lot of time and intensity.)4. Respect team-mates during practices and games.5. Attend all practices and games and participate fully in all parts of practice, both exercise and skill building.6. To participate in games and practices, students must be in school for at least the afternoon, unless excused by the coach.

7. Wear a complete school uniform to all games. Lost or damaged uniforms will be replaced at the student’s expense.8. Practice and play with enthusiasm, earnestness and intensity.9. Maintain an adequate academic standing.10. Accept playing time assignment with grace. (cf., Playing Time Policy)

Disciplinary MeasuresCoaches aim to help players develop principles of good sportsmanship and Christian behaviour. Positive instruction and encouragement will be provided and, when necessary, admonitions will be given or punishments assigned.

Coaches may reprimand players orally, suspend them from practice or play, discuss the issue with parents or use other measures appropriate to the situation.

Disciplinary difficulties may be categorized in three levels: minor, serious, severe.

Minor offences (e.g., not paying attention, improper gym strip, poor use of language, improper physical contact) A coach may:• Orally reprimand a player.• Instruct the player to leave a practice or sit on the bench during a game.• Issue other directives for developing improved behaviours.

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Serious offences (e.g., defiance of a coach or referee, swearing) A coach will:

• Immediately suspend a player from further athletic participation and advise the principal of the offence.• In consultation with the coach, the principal will investigate the incident as needed and usually suspend the offending player from practices and games for two weeks or two games on the first offence. To return to the team, a player must make an appropriate resolution (apologies, restitution, plans for avoiding similar behaviours) of the offence with the coach, possibly the players, possibly his or her parents or, in certain cases, with the board.• Penalties for offences committed toward the end of a sport’s season will either carry over into school time or into the next sport’s season.• A player will be removed from that athletic team for a second serious offence. A serious offence on the next team will automatically result in the removal from that team for the rest of the school year.

Severe offences (e.g., disobedience of a coach’s or referee’s direct and explicit instruction, severe swearing, brawling, use of illegal drugs, alcohol or tobacco according to the board’s Drugs, Alcohol and Weapons Policy.) A coach will

• Immediately suspend a player and advise the principal of the offence. The principal will suspend the offending player from further participation in athletics for the academic year and from school for an appropriate length of time. The principal will also recommend or require the player to make an appropriate resolution of the offence.

Coaches• Arrange and lead practices.• Help players to develop their skills.• Provide appropriate playing time for players.• Arrange at least five games per season.• Help players develop good team behaviour and sportsmanship: respectfulness, proper language, proper body language, travelling, staying overnight.• Anticipate disciplinary situations and take action to help students avoid the difficulties.

Expectation of Parents• Be a good fan and attend your children’s games frequently• Encourage your children to develop their skills to the best of their abilities.• Respect the coach’s decisions.• Model proper sportsmanship when cheering or discussing games, officials or coaches (cheer; don’t jeer).• Help drive players to games when necessary.

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Transportation1. The school’s insurance policy includes a $3,000,000 liability clause covering parents and children in any private vehicle designated by the school as a “vehicle for school use.”2. The law requires that each child travelling in a vehicle must wear a seat belt. Students who do not buckle up will not be permitted to ride in the school van.3. Travel expenses will be paid by the participants.4. Volunteer drivers will have their fuel expenses paid.

Good Fans, Gym & Equipment Use1. Being a proper fan involves encouraging a favourite team, clapping and shouting, but not making disrespectful remarks about the referees or opposing team. Cheering, not jeering, is the appropriate principle.2. Cheer for the sport as a whole too. Applaud good plays by either team.

3. In gymnasiums, maintain the decorum proper to gymnasiums. A gymnasium is not a playground for fans. Fans, children and adults, should be in the stands, on the bleachers or in the designated areas-not in other spaces, even if seemingly available. Children should be seated near those responsible for them. Children should not run up and down the aisles or around the courts. Running and chasing are not proper activities for spectators. Do not play with balls on the court at half-time during the game or after the game. Playing courts are designated for the athletes.

4. Always present yourself as an enthusiastic, Christian supporter of the game.5. Adults with keys to the gym should open it and the equipment room only if intending to supervise the use of the room and equipment. That is, the gym is not a place to leave children with an open equipment room.6. The gymnasium and its equipment are to be used by students only when appropriate adult supervision has been arranged. The supervision is to ensure a restrained use of the equipment, not any wild, careless use.7. Gym users must always wear non-marking sport shoes.8. Indoor gym equipment (basketball, volleyball, badminton, floor hockey, foam gatorskin balls) is to be used only in the gymnasium, not in the foyer or outside.9. Basketballs, volleyballs and foam gatorskin balls must not be kicked or slammed against walls. Players must not hang from basketball rims or backboard supports.10. Badminton equipment should be used only when the nets are set up and floor hockey players must not use excessive slapshots or bang sticks on the floor.

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