121 Cavender Castle Drive
Dahlonega, GA 30533
(706) 867-9393
Student-Parent Handbook
2002-2003
PURPOSE and STRUCTURE | STATEMENTS | ADMISSIONS POLICY | FINANCIAL POLICY | STUDENT DRESS CODE | ATTENDANCE POLICY | GENERAL GUIDELINES | SCHOOL PLEDGES
The mission of Castle Creek Christian Academy (CCCA) is to prepare its students spiritually, academically, artistically, physically, and socially to live effective, productive lives. CCCA is intentionally composed of students from a broad range of economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds in order to enable them to live peacefully and productively in a diverse world. Our mission is to instill a deep Christian commitment to the Kingdom of God and Jesus Christ in their personal lives.
CCCA serves as an extension of the Christian home and exists as a ministry of Truth and Harvest International Ministries (THIM). The unity of the home, school, and church is essential to the life and progress of CCCA. Students are trained academically, physically, and spiritually, which involves the mind, soul, and spirit.
CCCA provides a Christian environment in many ways. Our children are required to maintain discipline and a Christian attitude on a daily basis while learning how to maintain that Christian attitude toward their peers and authorities. Students must learn how to work with peers and faculty of different cultures, ethnicity, and economic background in order to be prepared for the real world.
This philosophy reflects the mission of THIM. The central focus of the church declares that "whosoever will" is welcome to its congregation. CCCA believes "that every child deserves a chance." Luke 5:52 reads, "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." Likewise, our children are cultivated to grow in knowledge and wisdom in order to influence their world by the expression and demonstration of the Kingdom of God.
The following statement is presented in order to demonstrate our connection to the historically orthodox and Biblical faith of Christians who have preceded us, while also stating our belief that Christians today should maintain an on-going open spirit to His Kingdom.
We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative Word of God.
We believe there is only one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit.
We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory.
We believe that for the salvation of the lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential.
We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a Godly life.
We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost: them that are saved unto the resurrection, and of them that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation.
We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ.
CCCA admits students of any race, creed, or national origin. The academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, or national/ethnic origin in the administration of its education policies or school-administered programs.
Reservations are given to students already enrolled in CCCA in the admissions process. A completed Enrollment Packet must be submitted in order to maintain a spot in the academy.
Fees and tuition must be paid up-to-date in order to attend the first day of class.
NOTICE: The Administration and Board of CCCA reserves the right to dismiss a student after re-enrollment registration is completed. This may include immediate dismissal during the school year or at the end of the school year. Notification usually is given within two weeks after the end of the present school year.
Selection of students depends on openings in grade levels as well as prior school records in behavior, academics, and recommendations. CCCA is a college preparatory school intended to prepare young people for effective Christian leadership in society. CCCA is not a reform school.
First preference is given to returning students. There shall be a re-enrollment period (March 1 - April 30). Currently enrolled students who do not enroll during this period are not guaranteed acceptance for the upcoming school year.
Second preference is given to students who are transferring from another ACE school or another Christian school.
When applications exceed the number of available places, Administration will give preference to those applicants who can demonstrate the greatest Christian commitment (through activities such as church attendance and participation, family relationships, etc.) and also giving consideration to test scores and past academic achievement.
The Administration reserves the right to make exceptions to this selection policy and an exception for one is not meant to mean an exception for any other. All exceptions will be agreed on by Administration and brought to the attention of the Board.
The Admissions Commission consists of the Senior Administrator and the Principal. The decision for denied admission will be brought to the attention of the Board.
Parents must be in agreement with the purpose, philosophy, and policies as written in this manual or related information that pertains to the guidelines for CCCA.
Parents and students must understand and agree that the Bible will be taught as the authoritative Word of God.
A child entering K-3 must be three years of age by September 1.
A child entering K-4 must be four years of age by September 1.
A non-reading child entering K-5 must be five years of age by September 1.
A reading child entering Kindergarten must be five years of age by September 1.
A child entering 1st grade must be six years of age by September 1.
Every family is required to sign a tuition-and-related-fees contract for the upcoming school year in the admissions process. Families have the option of paying for tuition in monthly payments, or a payment for full tuition up front.
Students transferring to CCCA from home school are required to submit all requested information and records before the student may be admitted to class. Students may be required to take standardized testing to ensure proper grade placement. Please note it is possible that high school work may not transfer for credit towards a diploma from CCCA.
Withdrawal from CCCA requires the following procedures:
The withdrawal must be conducted in person, by a parent, or legal guardian and can never be processed over the telephone or via FAX.
Once the school year has begun, parents are responsible for the entire school year tuition. Exceptions to this policy include: death of a parent, or the entire family moving more than 50 miles from the location of the academy. All accounts must be current in order for the withdrawal to be processed.
A brief meeting with the Senior Administrator is recommended to discuss the withdrawal.
Any necessary documents concerning report cards or transcripts will be issued within two to three days after the withdrawal appointment and full payment of account.
CCCA is a non-profit organization in conjunction with Truth and Harvest International Ministries. Consistent and dependable tuition and fees are important in maintaining a strong organization. In order to maintain a sound financial operation, the following guidelines must be followed.
Those accounts that pay for tuition in one lump sum have their payment due on July 17, 2002 and are given a five percent (5%) discount off tuition.
The tuition amount will be spread out on a monthly payment schedule. Once the application process is completed, payments will be made by the first of each month for an eleven (11) month payment period. Payment made after the first (1st) of each month are considered delinquent.
Payment received on the first (1st) of the month will include a $25.00 discount. Payment received after the first (1st) of the month will incur a $10.00 per day charge thereafter until the payment is received. Returned checks will be charged a $28.50 return fee.
Report cards, records, or transcripts will not be released until all financial obligations have been paid.
Students are not allowed to start a new school year if there is an outstanding balance from the previous school year.
CCCA employs a dress code for its students. Compliance with the dress code is mandatory and begins the first day of school. All shirts, jackets, and gym attire must be purchased through the school. Any students who do not comply with the uniform policy will be dismissed from class and will report to the office. All parents will be required to pick their children up immediately or bring the appropriate attire to satisfy the uniform policy.
Research has demonstrated that a correlation exists between a student's dress and their behavior. When a student dresses in a very casual manner, he/she tends to be more uninhibited in his/her behavior. Since the intensity of the teaching/learning transaction requires a seriousness of purpose, it is more conducive to learning when a student's dress reflects the Learning Center atmosphere.
When administration decides to allow dress out days, or when the students have earned the dress out day due to no demerits in a week, the following guidelines will apply:
If shorts are worn, they must be no shorter than one (1) inch above the knee.
Length of shirt must be able to be tucked in. (NO midriff or tank top shirts.)
No T-shirts with secular advertisements or bands will be permitted. Christian T-shirts only.
Rules under the "Dress Code Guidelines" also apply to dress out days.
All shirts, jackets, and gym attire must be purchased through the school.
All tennis shoes permitted must be conservative. No neon colors or "light-up" tennis shoes.
Jewelry must be conservative and kept to a minimum.
If an undershirt is worn, it must be a solid color. Writing on undershirts is not permitted.
Earrings are not permitted for young men.
Earrings for young ladies are limited to double piercing.
All slacks must be worn with a leather belt. All pants must be worn at the level of the waist and NOT below. Oversized or baggy slacks will not be permitted.
Young men must be clean shaven at all times - no facial hair.
Upon arrival at school, all outdoor jackets and coats must be removed unless needed for outside activities, etc.
Hats are not allowed for use on the school grounds at any time. If a school activity requires a hat to be worn, the hat must be worn with the bill straight forward or straight backward.
Attendance and punctuality are important factors in a quality education. It is imperative that both parent and student understand the importance of attending school on a regular basis. Family vacations and trips should be scheduled during school vacations. Parents must especially understand the need to bring your child(ren) to school by 7:45 a.m. in order to provide adequate time to prepare for the beginning of the school day at 8:00 a.m.
If a student is absent from school, one of the parents must contact the office to inform the school the student will be out. The student must bring in a written excuse from one of their parents upon return to school. A student may have up to five (5) excused absences. Between five (5) and fifteen (15) excused absences requires a Doctor's written excuse. Greater than fifteen (15) absences will result in Saturday school, 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, at the rate of $15.00 per hour. If Saturday school is not attended, this will result in automatic failure.
Early dismissals are allowed for emergencies only.
Reasons for valid absences may include the following:
Personal illness, injury, or doctors/dentist appointments that cannot be scheduled after school hours.
Illness in the immediate family that requires the student's presence.
Death in the family.
Deadlines for extended periods of absence are up to the individual supervisor. Students are encouraged to receive their school work before extended absences. We ask that you allow the supervisors adequate time to gather assignments.
Truancy is defined by an absence without the knowledge and/or consent of parents and/or school administration. Absences of this nature include skipping class, going off of the school grounds, leaving early from school, etc. These absences will result in a written discipline report and academic penalties when applicable.
Arriving or departing early from school is strongly discouraged. If a student is checking in or out of school during the school day, he/she MUST have a note from home to validate the absence. PARENTS MUST PERSONALLY SIGN THEIR CHILD(REN) IN OR OUT ON THE OFFICIAL RECORD IN THE SCHOOL OFFICE. A tardy pass will be issued for the student to admit him/her to class.
Parents must instill the importance of being self-disciplined and responsible. Prompt attendance is necessary every day. Students who are late to school are considered tardy and can be subject to disciplinary action or academic penalties.
Tardy to School - Students who are late to school must have a parent note to clarify the tardy. When a student has received three excused tardies during a grading period, it will be recorded as one absence. Tardies can result in a discipline report, administrative disciplinary action, or academic penalties.
Tardy to Class - Students who are tardy to class interrupt the learning process in the Learning Center. When the class begins, students are expected to be at their offices. If a student receives three tardies during a grading period, it will be recorded as one absence. Tardies can result in a discipline report, administrative disciplinary action, or academic penalties.
This Student-Parent Handbook has been approved by the Senior Administrator and Principal. They reserve the right to amend, change, and interpret the content of the Handbook at any time.
Information is sent home to the parent via the Communication Envelope. The information is to be read by both parents, who should then sign the outside of the envelope in the appropriate place, and have the student return the envelope the next school day.
It is the desire of CCCA to develop discipline and encourage positive attributes in the spirit and character of every young person.
Students are encouraged to bear the fruit of the Spirit as outlined by Galatians 5:22. That includes love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, and faith. These qualities are important in the everyday life of a Christian.
Students must maintain a Godly view towards authority. This includes cheerful obedience and respect towards the faculty/staff of CCCA.
Students must show courtesy and respect to one another at all times in the Academy. This cooperation builds a positive atmosphere where every child can be effective in and out of the classroom.
Students must develop responsibility on a daily basis. This includes being punctual, completing assignments, and taking accountability for one's actions.
Students are expected to uphold strong Christian character in all areas of scholastic life. This relates to having proper relationships, appropriate language, appropriate music, movies, and television programs which are acceptable to Christian morals and conduct.
Students need to respect the property of both CCCA and that of their peers.
If a student's violation of the guidelines or conduct is such that corporal discipline is recommended, the Supervisor or individual recommending such discipline shall discuss the situation with the Principal.
With agreement of the need for corporal discipline, the Principal or Senior Administrator will contact the appropriate parent or legal guardian indicating that there has been a serious violation of the guidelines or conduct that warrants application of a paddling. The parent or legal guardian will be required to come to the school and to spank the child in the presence of the Principal or Senior Administrator or a staff member of the same sex as the child.
School staff will NOT administer corporal discipline (paddling), but if such is needed, the appropriate parent will be called in to administer the discipline.
Failure of a parent or legal guardian to cooperate in the correction and discipline of a child may result in the expulsion of that child.
Students enrolled in CCCA are expected to maintain Christian standards of conduct at school, as well as in the community and at home. Students who violate the guidelines off-campus are subject to the same disciplinary measures as those that are committed on campus.
A variety of disciplinary methods shall be utilized, which provide both positive and negative incentive.
MERITS: Merits are given for a variety of accomplishments and behaviors that the staff wish to reward. These are redeemed at "merit sales" when students may make purchases of a variety of items with their merits.
OTHER INCENTIVES: A variety of other incentives are used, such as praise, trophies, ribbons, membership in the ONE THOUSAND Club, TWO THOUSAND Club, field trips, time off, special class treats, "dress out" day.
DEMERITS: Demerits are given to correct unacceptable acts or behaviors as follows. (Four or more demerits in a day results in detention.)
| One Demerit is given for the following: | |
|---|---|
| Turning around in office Running in Learning Center Violating off limits Trespassing Talking in Learning Center Tardy Writing or passing notes Goal card not posted Uniform violation Homework slip not returned Homework slip not signed Homework incomplete Crying (if not hurt) |
Making a disturbance Chewing gum Out of seat without permission Messy office Leaving chair out Leaning back in chair Eating/drinking in off limit areas Red pen at office Horseplaying Failure to return Communication Envelope Homework not done |
| Two Demerits are given for the following: | |
|---|---|
| PACE(s) left at home Unauthorized goal change Talking at testing table Pencil at scoring station Unauthorized use of a red or green pen |
Goals not set Insufficient goals Repeated offenses after warning Correction Action slip not returned Sleeping during class or chapel |
| Three Demerits are given for the following. Subsequent offense will result in corporal discipline or suspension from the Academy. | |
|---|---|
| Arguing Negative attitude Throwing dangerous objects Cheating Fighting Inappropriate conversation Disrespect Defiance |
In the Learning Center without a Supervisor Major scoring violation Lying Filthy language Inappropriate actions Talking back |
Administration and staff shall not be limited by the list of offenses in the above demerit system. Any un-Biblical conduct is subject to correction in a manner that is appropriate for correction.
When a student receives eight (8) or more demerits in one (1) day, the student's parents will be notified. The student will not be permitted to return to class until a conference is held with the student's father (if single parent home, then the mother will be contacted). Subsequent violations of eight (8) or more demerits will result in suspension. The above also applies if the student accumulates twenty-four (24) or more demerits in one week.
All students are required to attend Chapel. Students must be attentive and respectful at all times during chapel sessions. Students are expected to participate in the worship activities and show respect to speakers. Chapels usually include announcements, praise and worship, a Bible message, and prayer.
Any student who is ill must be kept home from school. The parent/guardian must call the office to confirm the absence with the school. Please notify the school as soon as possible if your child has a contagious disease. Control and management of communicable diseases is a dual responsibility of parents and staff.
We ask parents NOT to bring their child if he/she has had any of the symptoms listed below in the past 24 hours:
Should a child become ill during school hours, the student will be directed to report to the office and notify the office staff. Contact will be made with the parent/guardian to make arrangements to have the student picked up from school. Children should not have to wait in the school office for more than an hour after notification. Please note, if you are a parent that works a long distance from the school or is not available to pick up your child, please work out an alternate plan for sick child pickup.
Any student who defaces, damages, or destroys any property of CCCA, Truth and Harvest International Ministries, or others will assume total responsibility and liability for repairs and/or replacement. These actions will be followed with disciplinary action from the Administration of CCCA.
Field trips are planned to support the academic program of CCCA. Information will be sent home prior to the date in order to prepare for the field trip. Students must have signed parent permission slips in order to attend the field trips.
CCCA practices fire drills on a regular basis. Students are instructed to line up and listen to the directions of the Supervisor. Students must file out to the assigned area in a neat and orderly fashion. Students must stay together with their Supervisor and wait for further instructions for the drill.
During tornado drills, students are instructed to move into the hallway away from any glass or entryway of the building. Students will sit on the floor, with their backs up to the wall, with their heads covered.
CCCA grades on the basis of academic evaluation, student effort, behavior, and leadership dynamics. These grades are assessed four times during the year on a four-quarter grading system. The grading scale is listed below.
Numeric System
A = 94% to 100% B = 88% to 93% C = 80% to 87% F = 0% to 79% |
Another important tool in the grading system is the "conduct" grades. These grades are given as an assessment of the student's overall behavior and exhibition of character in class.
This grade evaluates the student's ability to respond to instructions, attitude, utilization of time, and relationship with faculty, staff and fellow students. These grades are given in the following categories.
E - Excellent N - Needs Improvement |
S - Satisfactory U - Unsatisfactory |
CCCA is a private, Christian, preparatory school. We do, however, work to meet and exceed the standards set in the public school sector. A student graduating from CCCA must earn 24 credits (General Diploma), 25 credits (College Preparatory Diploma), and/or 27 credits (Honors Diploma).
Each student of high school age will be given an Academic Projection toward graduation sheet. The projection will be drawn up at the time of the student's entering high school, or at the time of enrollment, if the student has already attained high school age or rank academically.
The projection will be signed by the parent/legal guardian and school staff, and will be updated on a regular basis. A diploma will be awarded upon the completion of ALL required work according to the Academic Projection sheet and the State of Georgia.
Every senior must submit a senior term paper on "Christian Education and What It Means To Me," and present a speech before an appropriate audience.
The 12-inch rule will apply to all students. Young men and young ladies found to be touching each other (even in jest) will be given demerits, detention, and/or suspension.
Homework will be given as needed. If a student shows irresponsibility in the completion of homework, he/she will lose the privilege of taking homework home. They will then be required to complete all work at school. The parent will be charged a $10.00 per hour or part of an hour after 3:15 p.m. for work that is being completed at school.
Each student will be assigned a specific place in which to eat lunch. Microwaves will be available to heat appropriate items. A refrigerator is available for "small" items and drinks that must be refrigerated. Items are to be removed from the refrigerator on a daily basis. The school will have available snacks and soft drinks for purchase during breaks and at lunch time.
School closings due to inclement weather shall be determined according to decisions made by the public school system for Lumpkin County. If the county announces that schools will be closed due to weather conditions, then CCCA will also be closed.
The school requires that each student have coverage under a medical accident policy. This insurance is supplemental to any family plan that is in existence and it will cover accidents that take place at school. The school will accept no financial responsibility for accidental injuries occuring at school or while attending school functions.
Student drivers must understand that it is a privilege to use a personal vehicle on school property. If students practice fast, reckless, or irresponsible driving, privileges can and will be taken away from one week to one month. If a driver has been warned several times and continues to drive irresponsibly, the student driver will be revoked of his/her privileges on campus.
NO STUDENT IS EVER TO ALLOW ANOTHER STUDENT IN HIS/HER VEHICLE, FOR ANY REASON, WHILE ON CAMPUS OR FOR SCHOOL RELATED ACTIVITIES AT CCCA.
Students must have written permission or verbal confirmation from both parents involved or school personnel.
All visitors are required to register at the school's office and are only permitted in the learning areas with approval by the administration.
All students at CCCA are full-time students. To insure that everyone receives maximum spiritual, academic, and social benefit from school activities, no student is permitted to leave campus before the normal end of the school day. Students who are employed should arrange with their employer to begin work no earlier than 5:00 p.m. It must be remembered that if a student earns a detention, serving that detention takes priority over after-school jobs.
If a student fails to meet academic obligations, parents may be asked to consider fewer work hours for the student. Seniors who have finished all their requirements for graduation may be granded special hours for attendance.
Every school day will begin with prayer and the school pledges. The following are the three pledges used on a daily basis.