School Handbook

Philosophy and Purpose

Calvary Christian School stands without apology for the Bible, and its principles are an integral part of our regulations. It is understood that attendance at Calvary Christian School is a privilege and not a right. Any student who does not conform to the standards and regulations of this school may forfeit this privilege. The administration may at any time request the withdrawal of any student who in the opinion of the administration, does not fit into the school philosophy or refuses to conform to the rules and regulations. It is the hope and desire of the administration that each student will have a strong respect for the philosophies and aims of Calvary Christian School.

HISTORY

Calvary Christian School was established in 1974 as a ministry of Calvary Bible Church. Under the leadership of Pastor Tom Harper, CCS boasted twelve students and two teachers that first year. Robert S. Weeks, a deacon and member of the school board, was called to be the school’s administrator before the year was out.

Mr. Weeks served as principal (and pastor of Calvary Bible Church from 1980) until his retirement in 2000. Assisted by many dear people, he oversaw Calvary’s greatest period of expansion. Classroom facilities were added in 1976, 1977, 1979, 1982, 1983, and 1995. The school campus grew from .6 acre to more than 12 acres. Enrollment multiplied from the initial twelve students to more than 300. Calvary became a member of both the South Carolina Association of Christian Schools and the American Association of Christian Schools.

Upon Mr. Weeks’ retirement, John A. Gregory assumed the office of administrator of Calvary Christian School. Mr. Gregory, who holds a master’s degree in educational administration from Pensacola Christian College, first came to Calvary in the mid-1970s when he was stationed at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. After completing his enlistment and studies at PCC, he returned to Calvary in 1982 as a teacher and assistant administrator. His tenure of office as school administrator witnessed significant improvements to the Calvary campus and academic program. In 2002, the Robert S. Weeks Activity Center was completed. In 2004, Calvary became a Passport Learning^® Center. In 2005, Calvary began the process of securing accreditation from the South Carolina Association of Christian Schools.

In the second semester of the 2006-2007 year, Danny Martin, the pastor of Calvary Bible Church and teacher of eight years, assumed the position of principal. In March of 2008, Danny resigned as both pastor and principal.

It was at this time that Heritage Bible Church, under the leadership of pastors Burton Bosworth and Mark Roland, made the decision to merge ministries with Calvary Bible Church. Mr. Roland has served as principal ever since. The 2021-2022 school year saw an enrollment increase to 350 students coinciding with an expansion to the second floor of the lunchroom, adding three classrooms and a music room.

Since it opened 50 years ago, Calvary has ministered to thousands of young people and graduated more than 250. Its alumni have earned degrees from Bob Jones University, Charleston Southern University, The Citadel, Clemson University, Coastal Carolina University, Northwestern University, Pensacola Christian College, the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of South Carolina. Many of its former students are now involved in full-time Christian ministry, while others excel in careers as diverse as nursing and journalism.

PHILOSOPHY

We believe there are three essential components for the successful education of the child. These three components are listed in order of responsibility to God for the training of godly men and women.

1. Parents – The God-given primary responsibility for the training and education of children is that of the parents. The success of a student at Calvary will be directly correlated with his parents’ faith in Christ as personal Savior and their commitment to honoring God’s Word in separating from the sinful practices and lifestyles of the unsaved world.
2. Church – Next in importance is the ministry of the local church in the life of the family. We strongly encourage every family to be committed, through attendance and participation, to a Biblical church. A Biblical church is a church that adheres to the fundamentals of the Christian faith and endeavors to keep itself pure from worldly practices and ecumenical movements (toleration of unbiblical teaching and practice).
3. School – Finally, and in proper order, is the school that the parents have chosen to help them with the education of their children. The school will never be able to stand in place of the parents or church. However, in proper order, these three components play a stabilizing and strengthening role in the education and development of a child.

When these three are in agreement in philosophy, standards, and convictions, the outcome will be the development of men and women who are firmly grounded in Truth and able to function faithfully in the world around them. When there is inconsistency and disagreement in these three, there is a propensity toward disrespect for one of these authorities and may result in rebellion to authority in the life of the child.

Calvary Christian School is a ministry of Calvary Bible Church and is the extension of the Christian home. We believe there is a Biblical perspective for every academic discipline. We believe that true knowledge can be gained only as each discipline is taught and learned from the perspective of the principles of God’s Word.

PURPOSE STATEMENT

The purpose of Calvary Christian School is to give each student the maximum knowledge of the various subjects and the essentials of culture in the light of God’s Word, “That in all things He might have the preeminence” (Col. 1:18). Even though knowledge is factually the same for the believer and unbeliever, no subject can be taught in its truth if the Originator is ignored. Recognizing that spiritual truths are spiritually discerned, only teachers who have personally accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord can possibly teach in a way pleasing to God. Consequently, only a Christian school with born-again teachers can give a child the education God expects in keeping with His instruction in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Our entire school program is designed to help parents fulfill this command of God. Any parent with different educational and spiritual expectations for his child is likely to be dissatisfied with Calvary Christian School.

At Calvary, we will accomplish this purpose by achieving these goals:

• To proclaim the Gospel of Christ to each student
• For each student to come to trust Christ as Lord and Savior
• For each student to read, reason from, and understand God’s Word and relate its truths to the daily aspects of life
• For each student to understand and live according to Biblical principles of righteous living
• To provide excellent academic training, stressing core curriculum
• That each student has a Biblical basis for social and physical development so that they can function as godly influences in our society and nation

Calvary Christian School is a ministry of Calvary Bible Church, a fundamental, independent, Bible-believing church. Because the church practices separation from worldliness and ecumenism, Calvary Christian School does not have an open enrollment policy. Each student entering the school must be approved by our Administrative Board.

As a ministry of Calvary Bible Church, we set standards that are consistent for the families within the ministry. We wish to offer a place of refuge and security from the philosophies and deeds of the world. We consider it a sacred trust that we hold for these families. We extend invitation to those outside our church only as long as they are willing to maintain these standards in word and action.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION

Calvary Christian School admits students of any race, national or ethnic origin, to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to the students at the school. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, in its administration of educational policies, admissions policies, and athletic or other school administered programs.

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ADMISSION

KINDERGARTEN DIVISION REQUIREMENTS

GENERAL ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE

Families considering enrolling their children at Calvary Christian School should follow these steps:

• Obtain an information package and take a tour of our school.
• Complete and submit an application with the nonrefundable application fee.
• Schedule an assessment to determine placement if entering grades 1-12.(Refer to “Entrance Examination” below.)

• Schedule an time with the principal to review assessment, behavior record, and to discuss the policies and procedures handbook.

Following the above steps:

• The principal will meet with the Administrative Board to make his recommendation regarding enrollment.
• The Administrative Board will make a decision regarding enrollment.
• The school will send a formal communication informing the family of the decision. If the student is accepted, the family will receive information on the steps required to complete enrollment. The family will be required to pay the enrollment fee and provide a copy of the student’s birth certificate, a South Carolina Certificate of Immunization (or religious exemption form), and the previous school transcripts (as applicable).

ENTRANCE EXAMINATION

To maintain the excellence of our academics and ensure that each class can fulfill its potential, Calvary Christian School requires that students enrolling into grades 4-12 take our entrance/placement examination.  This test is a web-based test designed specifically for Christian schools and is an accurate representation of the demands of our curriculum. We use the results of this test to determine the student’s academic suitability and placement.

READMISSION AFTER DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Please refer to the “Readmission After Disciplinary Action” section of the handbook under the “Discipline” heading of the handbook.

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ATTENDANCE

In order to gain the most from Calvary Christian School, it is important that each student attend school faithfully. We recognize that certain absences are unavoidable, and that parents may take their children out of school when they consider it necessary. Such absences, however, do place an extra burden upon both the student and the teacher to complete missed work and may jeopardize the student’s opportunity to receive credit for a given subject.

Please note: A student must be present at least half of the school day to be counted present:

• K5 and elementary — 3.5 consecutive hours
• Junior and senior high — 4 consecutive class periods

EXCUSED ABSENCES

Following any absence, the parent must send a written excuse (not a text message) to the front office on the day the student returns. Secondary students will receive an Absence Make-Up Form from the attendance secretary when they have a written excuse. This will be their admittance back to each class after an absence that is considered excused.

An absence is considered excused when it meets one of the following circumstances AND does not fall under the “no pre-excused absence” days as listed on the school calendar:

• Personal illness as indicated by doctor’s note
• Medical/dental appointments that cannot be scheduled so as not to interfere with classes as indicated by a doctor’s note
• Serious family emergencies or death in the family

Please note: Family or church activities are NOT considered excused unless the following has taken place:

• The office has received written notice at least one week in advance and the student has filled out a Pre-Excused Absence Form.
• All available work that will be missed is provided to the student in advance on the form.

Students will be assigned make-up work using the Absence Make-Up Form when a note from the parent or the doctor stating one of the above reasons is the excuse for the absence. This form is given to the student by the attendance secretary after the written excuse has been turned in and approved.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

Absences that do not fall under the excused absences circumstances are considered unexcused. Work that is turned in late because of an unexcused absence will be considered late work and may receive an academic penalty according to the section of the handbook entitled Late Work found under the Academics heading. Homework, tests, and previously assigned projects will be due on the day the student returns without make-up privileges. Students with an unexcused absence on the day of an exam will not be allowed to make-up that exam.

If a student misses a spiritual emphasis trip or the senior trip, it will result in a suspension, and will meet the penalty of skipping school. These trips are mandatory as communicated at the beginning of the school year.

ACCUMULATED ABSENCES

If a K5-12 student has more than ten absences, excused or unexcused, during a semester, the student will be retained. If a secondary student (7-12) has more than ten absences, excused or unexcused, during a semester in any given class, no credit will be given for that class.

An absence from class for a school-sanctioned activity will be excused and will not be counted toward a student’s total absences. (Example: Spiritual Emphasis trips, senior trips, field trips, CCS athletic away games, etc.)

Juniors are allowed two (2) days for college visits, and seniors are allowed three (3) days. These are not included in the ten-day absence limit if the following conditions are met:

1. The student is passing each class.
2. The student or parent clears the visit with the principal at least five (5) days
   before the absence.
3. The student makes suitable arrangements with each of his/her teachers regarding missed work, tests, and other assignments at least two (2) school days prior to the absence.
4. The student brings a letter or note from the college admissions department or similar note, and turns it in to the front office no more than two (2) days following the absence. All four of these conditions must be met for the absence to be excused.

Parents will be notified by automatic-generated emails when their student has accumulated 5, 7, 9, and 10 accumulated absences per semester.

PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE

Fine Arts performances are an integral part of the education provided at CCS. Attendance at scheduled performances is a requirement for the class. Any student absent from a performance will receive a failing grade for that performance.

Students who are tardy or absent to the performance must provide a written explanation from a parent explaining the nature of the tardy or absence. Please note that it is the student’s responsibility to turn in a note explaining the reason for an absence or tardy.

SENIOR TRIP ATTENDANCE

This trip represents the culmination of a student’s time at Calvary. This is not only a time of fun but also a time of spiritual growth and reflection as we consider what we’ve accomplished  and what the future holds. This is a required trip, and absence will not be excused and will incur an academic penalty and face suspension.

PARTICIPATION IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AFTER AN ABSENCE

Students participating in elective extracurricular activities such as sports, banquets, etc., will be expected to be in attendance at school for the full day (more than 4 hours) on which the activity occurs. If the activity is on a Saturday, the student should attend school the full day on Friday.

Absences excused due to doctor appointments, emergencies, and administrative exceptions are excluded in this policy.

MAKE-UP WORK

A student who is absent, with either an excused or unexcused absence, will be responsible to make up all work missed during the absence(s).

If a student is absent one day, he should be prepared for all tests and homework upon returning to school.

Students with multiple excused absences will be given the number of days absent, plus one additional day, to make up the missed work. (An exception to this policy may be made for a long-term assignment due during the absence and tests assigned before the absence. That work or test may be due the day a student returns to school.) If the work is not turned in upon arrival at school or not made up on time, it will be handled as explained in the section of the handbook entitled “Late Work” found under the “Academics” heading of the handbook.

Secondary students should use the forms available from the office to expedite the make-up work process.

1. The Admit Slip– This slip is used when a student is tardy to homeroom (after 8:10 a.m.). This slip must be picked up from the office and is required to get into class.
2. The Absence Make-Up Form– This form is used to record assignments to be completed for each class missed during an excused It is obtained from the attendance secretary the day the student returns to school with a written excuse for the absence(s) to be filled out and signed/initialed by each teacher as the make-up work is assigned. This form is the student’s readmission slip back into each class following the absence and will be required by the teacher upon his return.
3. The Pre-Excused Absence Form– This form is used to record assignments to be made up by a student who knows he is going to be absent in the near future. Teachers fill out and sign/initial the form to indicate that the assignments listed are correct. Upon returning from a pre-excused absence, the student will secure the Absence Make-Up Form (described above) to be readmitted to class and to get an update on covered material.

K5 and elementary teachers work with their absentees on an individual basis to get make-up work completed.

TARDINESS

Promptness is an important aspect of character and a measure of school citizenship. Secondary students will be counted as absent unexcused for any given class if they have an unexcused tardy of twenty minutes or more. Secondary students will be considered tardy to class if they are not in the classroom and prepared for class when the bell finishes ringing.

Students who are tardy to homeroom should have a written explanation from a parent explaining the nature of the tardy. Consideration for excused tardies will be given to students who arrive late due to inclement weather, unavoidable transportation difficulties, and medical appointments. (Students who travel through dense traffic areas should plan extra travel time in order to arrive at school on time.)

Every unexcused tardy in grades 7-12 equals one demerit. (For more information, please refer to the “Secondary Discipline Policy” section under the “Discipline” heading of the handbook.)

We understand that from time to time, unavoidable circumstances arise which cause tardiness; however, habitual tardiness will not be tolerated. Excessive tardiness will result in further disciplinary action and eventual suspension. Every four tardies (excused or unexcused) will result in one unexcused absence.

When arriving to school after 8:10 a.m., the student MUST sign in at the office so as not to be counted absent for the day. Parents should not take their students to the classroom, but should bring them by the office. Students must receive an Admit Slip from the attendance secretary in order to be admitted to class when they are tardy to homeroom.

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ACADEMICS

Calvary Christian School is an accredited member of the South Carolina Association of Christian Schools (SCACS) and a member of the American Association of Christian Schools (AACS). The administrative staff and the instructional staff of Calvary Christian school are well qualified to perform their work. Achievement tests administered annually show our student body to be performing above the national average. Students who have done well at CCS move easily into other private and public schools and colleges locally and across the nation.

EXCELLENCE

Based on the biblical mandate in I Corinthians 10:31, that in whatever we do we are to do all to the glory of God, our goal is to strive for excellence in every academic subject as well as in our extracurricular activities. The Christian should always strive to excel for the purpose of glorifying the Lord.

CURRICULUM

At Calvary Christian School we recognize that Jesus Christ is the source of all knowledge and that according to Proverbs 10:14, “Wise men lay up knowledge.” The Bible is the guide for life; therefore, Bible study is a recognized part of the curriculum of Calvary Christian School. All students have a Bible class which includes Bible study, Bible memorization and practical Christian training. In our elementary, junior high, and high school we use the Bible programs developed by Bob Jones University and Abeka Books. In the Bible classes and chapel, students are required to use the King James Version of the Bible. This is for the purpose of uniformity and memorization.

In the elementary school, the Abeka curriculum (developed by Pensacola Christian College) and the BJU Press curriculum (developed by Bob Jones University) are used. These curricula place a strong emphasis on phonics, reading comprehension, and mathematics. They are superior academic programs enhanced by the Christian philosophy we believe to be necessary for our students.

The high school program is a college preparatory curriculum with textbooks selected to best enhance each subject area. Where possible, we use textbooks by the above-mentioned Christian publishers. Music, speech, and computer skills along with a variety of electives are available to our high school students. A well-rounded sports program for students is also offered with competition in soccer, volleyball, archery, basketball, and baseball.

FACTS SIS

Parent-teacher communication is key to keeping students accountable for their grades. Calvary Christian School uses a secure student information system called FACTS SIS to post student assignments and grades. The system is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from any computer with internet access. Access to the system is available via a link on our website. Each parent sets up a “parent” username that will provide access to each of his students and can set up a “student” username for his students that will provide access only to his own classes/grades. We encourage parents to check grades frequently. If parents or students have a question about a grade posted on FACTS SIS, they should contact the teacher directly. Parents may also download the FACTS SIS app for a small fee to their mobile device for access to grades, lesson plans, assignments, behavior reports, lunch orders, attendance records, and more.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an integral part of the school program at CCS, so each teacher is at liberty to give homework to aid each student in advancing work. Therefore, each student is expected to successfully complete his homework assignments each day. We request the full cooperation and support from parents to see that homework is completed. Homework may be given for the following purposes: drill, practice, remedial reasons, and individual projects relating to school studies. Continued failure to complete homework assignments will result in academic penalty and disciplinary action.

LATE WORK

Assignments, quizzes, and tests not submitted according to the schedule provided by the teacher may receive an academic penalty. Late work penalties for students are at the discretion of the teacher, who may enforce a standard 15-point grade reduction per day that the assignment is late and may choose not to accept late work after the third day. The teacher should communicate his/her late-work policy at the beginning of the school year. It is not the responsibility of the teacher to seek out students who have work that is late. Students should be faithful in recording their assignments and due dates in their assignment planners.

EXAMS

Semester exams will be administered during the formally scheduled exam week. During these weeks, there will be no pre-excused absences allowed. Seniors who have maintained an A (90-100) average for each quarter in a class will have the option to be exempted from the final semester exam in that class.

CHEATING

Also see “PLAGIARISM.” Cheating is defined as any unauthorized communication before or during a grading event or any attempt to receive unauthorized assistance (including from artificial intelligence apps) before or during a test, quiz, homework assignment, or project.  In general, a good rule of thumb to determine if something is “cheating” is to ask yourself, “Do I want my parents and my teacher to know what I am doing?” If you would not want to voluntarily tell your parents or your teacher about the help you are receiving, then it is likely you are cheating. If you are considering getting or receiving help on your work, it is always a good idea to ask your teacher first. Cheating is a violation of the ninth commandment (against bearing false witness), in that the student is implicitly stating that the work is his/her own, when it actually is not. Cheating will result in a zero for the assignment/test and may be cause for immediate suspension.  Additional cheating incidents will result in longer term suspensions and/or expulsion.

PLAGIARISM

Plagiarism is treated as a serious offense at CCS, because it is a denial of two key purposes of the school:

1. Plagiarism is fundamentally a matter of dishonesty and a violation of integrity. It is a combination of stealing, lying, cheating, and laziness. Thus, it violates the distinctively Christian perspective upon which CCS is based.
2. Plagiarism is an attack on academic integrity, in that the student is seeking to circumvent the learning process and receive grades which he/she has not earned.

With readily available internet access, it is very easy for students to  plagiarize. They need only copy information from websites, or access one of the various “cheat” sites or AI apps that offer pre-written research papers.

But ease of access does not justify violation of scholarly standards, nor does it legitimize violation of the ninth commandment.

Therefore, CCS imposes stiff penalties for plagiarism. These penalties involve both academic and disciplinary consequences. These will apply for both minor plagiarism (use of non-attributed quotations occasionally in a paper), and more extensive plagiarism (such as copying an entire paper wholesale from another source, with only minor editing).

EXTRA CREDIT

Some teachers may give opportunities throughout the year for students to gain extra credit. These extra credit points will be made available to all students. We encourage students to take advantage of these opportunities. However, extra credit will not be given at the end of the year for the purpose of bringing an undeserving student’s grades up to a passing average. Extra credit will only be available to students who have turned in all of their assignments.

GRADING

The grading key is as follows:

A+   100-98    B+ 89-87      C+ 79-77       D+ 69-67

A      97-94      B 86-84        C 76-74         D 66-60

A-    93-90      B- 83-80       C- 73-70        F 59 or below

PROGRESS REPORTS

In the elementary department, each student’s weekly papers are sent home for a parent’s signature each Monday. Signed papers should be returned each Tuesday.

Secondary progress reports are available through FACTS and will be emailed to parents/guardians every three weeks before the end of each quarter. 

REPORT CARDS

Quarterly report cards are sent to all parents to give an accurate indication of the progress, or lack of progress, being made. Each student is evaluated academically and may also be scored in the area of self-government. The academic grade is based upon the average for daily work, quizzes, and tests. Exams are calculated into the semester averages. Additional marks on secondary reports are used to reflect effort and conduct. Report cards must be signed by a parent and returned each quarter (except the fourth quarter).

In the elementary, self-government marks are aimed at the development of Christian character. We emphasize the following qualities in the lives of the students:

• Attentiveness – Pays attention to instructions and listens closely
• Attitude – Portrays respectful sentiments toward others
• Industry – Has diligent habits of attention to homework and study
• Initiative – Begins work on one’s own
• Conduct – Exhibits positive behavior
• Reliability – Accepts responsibilities and is dependable
• Thrift – Learns to make use of all the things God gives

Teachers use S (satisfactory), N (needs improvement), and U (unsatisfactory) to evaluate the student in these self-government  qualities.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

We believe that any student who truly desires to succeed will do so if he is willing to work diligently. Any student who receives a grade of “F” in any subject or who has a cumulative average below 70 on his report card will be placed on academic probation for the following  quarter. Under academic probation a student will be ineligible for extracurricular activities and will be required to meet with the teacher of any class he is failing on a weekly basis.

All new students need to demonstrate their ability to handle the school’s curriculum and expectations. This means that if a newly enrolled student cannot maintain a cumulative average of 70 for the first quarter he is enrolled, he may be asked to withdraw. We find that students who repeatedly fail classes are often wasting their time and their parents’ money. They may not be academically superior; however, we do expect them to be diligent in their work.

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY (BETWEEN GRADING PERIODS) FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

All students who participate in extra-curricular athletics are first and foremost students. Maintaining academic excellence is required and expected of all CCS students.

CCS has the following athletic eligibility requirements. A student will lose athletic eligibility if he/she falls into either one of these categories, based on the eligibility checks for the year. Eligibility checks will take place throughout the year.

Eligibility will be broken down into two categories: Away game ineligibility and Full ineligibility.

Away game ineligibility:

• A student is considered ineligible for any game that is not a home game if the student has two (2) D’s in core subjects for current quarter averages in his/her classes.

Full ineligibility:

• A student who has three (3) D’s in core subjects or one (1) F as the current quarter average in any class for the semester will not be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities including practices until his/her grades are acceptable.

Students who fall below the academic requirements will be ineligible, as of the date of the eligibility check. Ineligible students may be allowed to continue to attend practices at the discretion of the athletic director. Ineligible students will not be allowed to dress out for games, travel with the team to away games, or be dismissed early from classes.

Eligibility checkpoint dates occur approximately every two weeks. It is our hope that student academic performance would be enhanced during the sport season rather than hindered. Athletes who maintain academic eligibility for a minimum of half of the sport’s season will be allow to participate in the post-season play.

Athletes who leave school early for competition are responsible for contacting in advance the teachers whose classes they will miss, and making arrangements for missed work. Tests are to be taken no later than the next school day, unless other arrangements have been made with the teacher ahead of time. It is not the teacher’s responsibility to go to the student-athlete, either to arrange make-up work or to collect assignments; it is the student-athlete’s responsibility to initiate these arrangements.

Students arriving to school late or leaving school early may not participate in any athletic activity that day if they have missed four or more full class periods.

This policy applies to other extracurricular activities and classes, including yearbook and Student Government.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Students who desire to be involved in student government must have attended Calvary Christian School for at least one semester and maintained a minimum academic average of 80 percent for the previous semester. Students nominated for student government must also have two faculty recommendations.

AMERICAN CHRISTIAN HONOR SOCIETY (NOT ACTIVE)

Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors may qualify for Honor Society when they achieve (and maintain) a cumulative 3.0 GPA for the semester in which they are being inducted. Qualifying students must also receive a faculty recommendation and an administrative recommendation.

PROMOTION OR RETENTION

Students in grades one and two must pass reading and mathematics in order to be promoted to the next grade.

Any student in grades one through eight who earns two failing grades for the year will be retained. If a student fails a grade twice, he will not be allowed to re-enroll.

Any student in grades nine through twelve who fails a core subject or non-elective (see following sections) will be required to obtain a passing grade in order to graduate.

SUMMER SCHOOL

Summer school is a requirement for students in grades seven through twelve who fail a subject that is a prerequisite for promotion to the next grade. Any student participating in Summer School must be registered at CCS for the coming school year.

RANK IN CLASS

CCS ranks its students in accordance with the Uniform Grading Scale policy as designed and approved by the Commission on Higher Education. Parents may access the rank of their student from the records office at any time following the completion of their student’s ninth-grade year.

CALCULATING GRADE-POINT AVERAGE

The grade-point average is calculated according to the South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy. The grade-point average is figured from the conversion table (available in office). This conversion table assigns quality points to each numerical grade depending on the grade earned and the category of weight assigned to the course taken, i.e., Honors, CP, Advanced Placement). Units (also Credits) are based on the Carnegie Unit, which is a minimum of 120 hours of class or contact time with an instructor over the course of a year at the secondary level.

GRADUATION

To receive a diploma, a student must be enrolled at Calvary Christian School for at least one full semester and must be presently carrying enough credits to finish the senior year.

Graduates must demonstrate computer literacy before graduation. All students receiving a South Carolina Public High School Diploma must pass an Exit Exam in Mathematics, Reading, and Writing. SCACS recommends that graduates of Calvary Christian School, and all Christian schools in its association, take either the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT) in lieu of the Exit Exam before graduation.

Students are reminded that it is their responsibility to see that sufficient credits are earned for graduation. Students must complete all requirements for graduation in order to participate in commencement exercises. In addition, each family’s financial responsibilities must be paid, and all disciplinary concerns, such as detentions, must be addressed.

RELEASE OF TRANSCRIPTS

Report cards, transcripts, and diplomas will not be issued at the end of the year, or released to a new school during the year, unless all tuition and school fees are paid and all scholastic requirements have been met. Official transcripts will not be released directly to students or parents, but unofficial transcripts are available upon request. Seniors desiring to apply to colleges and universities should provide a written request to have their transcripts sent to the specific college or university.

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CONDUCT

STANDARDS OF CHRISTIAN CONDUCT

The following items exemplify the standards of Christian conduct, which will help us have a school that is Godly and orderly:

1. Whether at school or away from school, the Christian student’s goal should be to “let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). Christians should desire to honor the Lord and to maintain a testimony of love for the Lord. Therefore, we should be alert to do things that please the Lord (Eph. 2:8-10, I Thess. 4:1-9) and desire to think like Christ (Phil. 2:5). Typical of this standard is faithfulness in attendance at a local Bible-preaching church (Heb. 10:25).
2. Christian students will show respect for those in authority over them (Eph. 6:5-8; I Tim. 5:1; 13:17).
3. The student, as a Christian, will show respect for the feelings and property of others (Phil. 2:3).
4. Every Christian student should allow the Holy Spirit to rule his tongue. He will strive to avoid offending and hurting others by careless and thoughtless words, words that may be a stumbling block, gossip, backbiting, or slander (Prov. 10:1, 25:9; Rom. 1:28-32).
5. Students should recognize that using the tongue for cursing, vulgarity, profanity, euphemisms, and lying has no place in the life of a Christian. The use of slang is discouraged (Matt. 5:37; Eph. 4:29; Col. 4:6). Students are encouraged to address teachers with “Yes Ma’am/Sir” or “No Ma’am/Sir.”
6. Stealing and cheating are condemned by God’s Word and therefore should not be accepted in the life of a Christian (Exo. 20:15; Eph. 4:28). Calvary Christian students should refrain from activities that are not glorifying to God. Immorality, drinking, drug use, dressing immodestly, and reading or viewing pornography are typical of such activities (I Co. 6:19, 20; II Co. 6:17; I Thess. 5:22; I Jn. 2:15). Two other areas of special concern involve media and music.
7. Christian students should follow biblical standards of conduct toward members of the opposite sex. We strongly discourage “steady” dating among our students. Any student getting married or who becomes engaged to be married will be asked to transfer from Calvary Christian School.
8. Christian students should practice sexual purity in word and deed. Sexual intimacy should be reserved for a faithful, life-long marriage of one man and one woman. Christians should oppose all forms of sexual immorality, including premarital sex, adultery, homosexuality, and pornography. Failure to remain sexually pure could result in discipline, including suspension or dismissal (Gen. 1:27-28, 2:18-24, 19:1-7; Lev. 18:22, 20:13; Prov. 5; Matt. 5:27-32, 19: -9, Mark 10:6-9; Rom. 1:24-32; I Cor. 6:9-10, 7:1-5).
9. No student will use, have in his possession, or make pretense of using, possessing, or encouraging others to use illegal drugs, tobacco of any kind, smoking paraphernalia of any kind, beer, or other alcoholic beverages at or away from school. Violations of this nature will result in automatic suspension or dismissal from school.
10. No student will get a tattoo (permanent or temporary i.e., henna) while enrolled at CCS. 
11. Students are expected to maintain Christian standards of courtesy and kindness as well as a pleasant spirit and a constructive attitude (Num. 11:1; John 16:33).
12. A disagreement with a faculty or staff member should be approached in a scriptural manner. These disagreements should be handled privately, respectfully, and humbly. The offended party should attempt to reconcile the difference with the other party before bringing in a higher authority (Matt. 18:15-17).
13. Fighting between students will not be tolerated. Any type of physical altercation between students will be thoroughly investigated and dealt with promptly. The minimum disciplinary action for physical fighting will be suspension. Retaliation is not acceptable. We seek to follow the example of Christ and will not excuse retaliation. (Luke 6:27-36)

High standards of conduct are required of all those associated with Calvary Christian School. Calvary Christian School expects that its students live above reproach showing respect to God, country, family, faculty, and fellow students. Therefore, lying, cheating, theft, and profanity will not be tolerated. Constructive suggestions are welcome, but griping will not be tolerated. Anyone who will not cooperate spiritually, morally, or scholastically will be required to withdraw. The administration has the right to withdraw any student who they do not think is in a “spirit of cooperation” with the school’s philosophy and practices.

Calvary Christian School does not accept nor retain faculty, staff, or students who profess or practice a homosexual lifestyle.

A student living in violation of one of the aforementioned standards displays an area of need in his life. A teacher or administrator aware of the need may therefore point out the problem to the student and communicate the sphere of concern to the parents. At that time, those involved in counseling may consider it necessary to employ some form of discipline to help the student mature in the given area. If the problem persists, more severe discipline may be in order.

CLASSROOM RULES

Although each teacher will have specific classroom procedures that he expects to have followed in the room, as a school-wide standard, we expect adherence to these basic rules:

1. The student should not speak out in class without first securing permission from the teacher.
2. The student should not leave his seat without permission.
3. The student should always give the teacher his full attention while he is teaching.
4. The student should always address and reply to the teacher with respect. All students are to address adults as Mr., Mrs., or Miss; never by first name. Out of respect for the administration and faculty, we ask the parents to set the example in this regard when speaking with or about the school personnel.
5. Negative attitudes and responses will not be tolerated.
6. The student should not engage in running, shoving, yelling, and other boisterous behavior or “horse-play” inside the buildings or during inappropriate times outdoors.
7. No “bullying” (physical, social, or verbal) or mistreatment of fellow classmates.
8. No gum chewing allowed on campus at any time.

Any student not complying with the above standards is subject to immediate removal from class, and any student consistently in conflict with any policy of the school will be asked to withdraw.

Calvary Christian School uses both positive and negative discipline to instill in students behavior patterns and attitudes that will produce self-disciplined lives. Discipline is administered in love as a preventive or corrective measure, and each student is dealt with according to his grade level. Please refer to the “Discipline” heading of the handbook for complete details.

COMPUTER LAB POLICIES

Classes in the computer lab are restricted to using the computers for that specific classwork only. Students are instructed on the proper use of computer lab equipment and should respect it at all times. Students may never use another student’s login information to access a school computer, and students should never share their login information with others. Misuse of computer lab equipment in any way will result in disciplinary action. Absolutely no food or open drink containers are permitted in the computer lab at any time.

Students may not use the printer for any purpose other than printing assigned schoolwork, and students should not ask teachers at the beginning of class to print assignments that are due that day. If students need to print assigned school work, they should follow these guidelines:

• Printing should happen before the class period in which the assignment is due.
• A student can only print with a teacher’s permission AND supervision.
• Students should secure permission and supervision from the assigning teacher.

Students may not be in the computer lab without supervision or permission from a teacher. Permission may only be given for students of the same gender to be in the computer lab at the same time for a specific purpose for a specific amount of time. Students in the computer lab with permission must have a hall pass from a teacher or else face disciplinary action.

PLAYGROUND GUIDELINES

These are general playground guidelines for teachers to follow and enforce as they see fit and as the situation deems necessary.

1. Students should use all the playground equipment safely and appropriately.
   1. Safety is paramount for all grades. What is safe for an older student may not be safe for a younger student, i.e., climbing the monkey bars, or pushing others on the swing set.
   2. Teachers on playground duty should watch for unsafe behavior and help students play safely.
2. Students should share the playground equipment and toys with others.
   1. Students should not exclude others in games or use of equipment, i.e., monopoly of playhouses so other students can’t play there, blocking a slide, or cutting in front so others can’t use a slide or swing. Taking turns and waiting for a turn are life skills.
   2. Teachers should watch and listen for exclusion and coach turn-taking skills.
3. Students and teachers should be where they are supposed to be when they are supposed to be there.
   1. The playground should only be used under teacher supervision during designated times.
   2. Secondary students should not be playing between classes, and students should not be playing before school or at undesignated times.
   3. If there are students playing unsupervised, remind them to be where they’re supposed to be and don’t leave until they have left.

MEDIA

Most of the material that is portrayed in movies and on television is completely opposed to the truths of Scripture. Viewing wickedness and/or worldliness in movies at theaters or at home should not be a part of the life of a Christian. Media that overtly or inadvertently portrays and/or promotes sexuality, sensuality, corrupt language, lying, adultery, immorality, disrespect, rebellion, stealing, deception, drug use, disobedience, and other anti-biblical themes will have a corrupting influence. The Bible commands us not to put any wickedness before our eyes (Ps. 101:3) and therefore we urge our students and parents to carefully set biblical viewing standards.

MUSIC

The purpose of a Christian school is to build into a young person the proper spiritual and academic direction for life. We are concerned about the detrimental impact (physically, emotionally, and spiritually) that worldly music is having upon our youth. In the school, we use a conservative standard in all our music both from the secular realm and from the sacred. Musically, Calvary Christian School reflects the music philosophy of Calvary Bible Church. We summarize it here in a few sentences:

At salvation, the believer becomes a “new creature” (creation) in Christ; “old things” including his worldly music are to pass away (II Co. 5:17). He has a “new song” in his heart (Ps. 40:1-3). We are now to be holy in “all manner of conversation” (I Pet. 1:14-16), which includes our music. The emphasis of Christian music should be to exalt Christ, not the performer; to exalt the unchanging God, not the changing world; to promote excellence, but not merely for human appeal (Phil 1:10). Therefore, Christian music is music in which the text (lyrics), music, performers, and performances are conformed to the image of Christ (Rom 8:29). Christian music that sounds like the sensual music of the world still has a sensual message which cancels out the message that might be in the “good Christian words” of the song. The Christian young person should not follow a style of Christian music that creates feelings, ideas, or values of an “unchanged” life, nor should he follow the musician whose performance practices are just like those of the current popular worldly musician. We ask that each student carefully evaluate the music in his life and seek godly counsel concerning that which may be questionable. Understanding that there is disagreement on this, CCS takes precaution not to offend families and churches that do not hold the same standard.

CCS does not allow students to bring any music playing devices (iPods, MP3 players, etc., or the use of cell phones for the use of playing music, etc. and headphones/earbuds) on campus at any time for any reason.

IN SUMMARY

If at school we determine that a student is involved in using these kinds of media and is seeking to influence others in these areas, disciplinary action will result. We recognize that our school has no authority to set viewing or listening standards for families. We do, however, hold a sacred trust for all who attend. Many families have chosen our school as a place of refuge and security from the philosophies and deeds of the world. They do not want their children influenced by these things. For their protection, therefore, we wish to establish minimal standards in these important areas of concern. A difference in standards between what the school allows and what parents allow will be seen as an inconsistency by the student and will, inevitably, produce problems for the parents and students.

In an effort to be blameless, CCS may at times err on the side of caution on this issue. CCS will not allow music based on questionable style, lyrics, and artists.

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DRESS CODE

Calvary Christian School’s dress standards are based on biblical principles and on appropriateness and neatness. Clothing must be modest (I Tim. 2:9), reflect separation from worldliness (II Cor. 6:17), and must be appropriate for school. A disheveled and unkempt appearance is unacceptable, even in regards to standards for both girls’ and boys’ hairstyles.

Failure to follow these guidelines will result in disciplinary action. (Please refer to the “Discipline” heading of the handbook for complete details.) Students wearing inappropriate apparel will be sent to the office and be required to change into the appropriate attire. If the office does not have the necessary clothing, students must phone a parent to bring a change of clothing. Missed work must be made up through arrangement with the teacher.

Calvary Christian School realizes that personal tastes and standards vary and we respect that; however, in order to have our students display an acceptable Christian appearance, we feel that the following standards are necessary.

In a desire to create an environment that is focused on learning and to train students to learn professionalism in the way they dress themselves, we have decided on the following guidelines for our students’ dress code.

REGULAR SCHOOL DRESS

GENERAL INFORMATION FOR ALL STUDENTS (K3-12)

1. Uniform pants are khaki or navy Docker-style pants. No other colors are permitted. Khaki or navy shorts are only an option for students in K3 through fourth grade.
2. Uniform skirts are khaki, navy, or maroon plaid and must come to the knee.
3. Uniform shirts are white, light blue, or maroon collared polos with the school logo embroidered in the left front pocket area. No other colors (including navy) are permitted.
4. Uniform outerwear are navy or maroon fleeces or sweaters. No other colors are permitted. Styles are limited to those available from Lands’ End or French Toast. Similar styles from other retailers should be approved by the front office prior to purchase.
5. Students may not wear “flip-flops” or shoes without backs (including Crocs). 
6. Regular school dress should be worn for all activities unless otherwise announced by the administration. The exception is for student-athletes on game days may wear the appropriate jersey.
7. Since room temperatures are carefully monitored, coats and heavy outerwear may not be worn in the classroom. The exception is uniform outerwear described above. 
8. Uniforms are required for students in all grades, including preschool and kindergarten. Calvary Christian School has selected Lands’ End and French Toast as our uniform providers. Uniform pieces must be chosen from the items selected with the providers (refer to the providers’ websites). All uniforms must comply with the dress standards for boys and girls. There are enough options in our uniform selection that outerwear such as “hoodies,” long-sleeved T-shirts, and sweatshirts are not permitted if they are visible either over or under the uniform.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES ONE THROUGH TWELVE

Boys

1. Boys must wear socks with their shoes.
2. All uniform clothing should be neat, clean, and in good repair. Tight clothing or overly loose/baggy clothing is not allowed. Undergarments are not to be visible. All shirt buttons except the top button must be secured. All shirts must be tucked in for boys in grades 4 through 12.
3. Boys are not to wear any type of jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, earrings, etc.) with the exception of watches on wrists or rings worn on the fingers.
4. Pants designed for use with a belt must be worn with a belt. If parents choose to purchase pants from a retailer other than Lands’ End, they must be identical in style, color, and appearance. No cargo pants will be allowed. Pants must be worn on or above the waistline. Pants should not have an inseam that is too short for the pants to be worn on or above the waistline. Pants that are torn, cut, or frayed may not be worn. Shorts are not an option for students in grades five through twelve.
5. Boys are to have their hair cut regularly, not allowing it to become long. Hair is to be kept off the eyebrows and neatly tapered off the collar and off the ears. Hair should not be “unkempt” in appearance. Boys are not permitted to completely shave their heads. No extreme hair styles or unusual colors are permitted. The terms “extreme” and “unusual” will be interpreted by the administration. Facial hair (beards, goatees, mustaches) must be shaved. Sideburns are not to be below the bottom of the ear.

Girls

1. Girls in grades five through twelve should wear uniform skirts or uniform pants. Skirts should cover the knees (reach to the bottom of the knee) when standing or sitting. Pants should be khaki or navy Docker-style uniform pants. These may be purchased anywhere but must be within the following guidelines.
   
   1. Loose fit, relaxed style
   2. No bell bottoms, low-rider, or cargo-type styles
   3. No skinny fit or pencil-fit styles
2. Girls in grades K3 through four must wear uniform dresses, shorts, or skirts that are no shorter than one inch above the knee or uniform pants.
3. All uniform clothing should be neat, clean, and in good repair. Tight clothing or overly loose/baggy clothing is not allowed. Undergarments are not to be visible.
4. Earrings may be worn only in the lobe of the ear (maximum of two matched sets).
5. No extreme hairstyles and no unusual hair coloring are permitted. The terms “extreme” and “unusual” will be interpreted by the administration.
6. Makeup should not be worn by students in grades four and below. Fake nails (including press-ons) cause a distraction and should not be worn by students in grades four and below.

The administration will be the final judge on any item in question concerning dress and hair requirements.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORMS

Physical education students in grades five through nine must be “dressed out” in the approved Calvary Christian School P.E. uniform. Uniform includes proper athletic shoes. Students who are not dressed out for P.E., including not having proper athletic shoes, will receive disciplinary action. Those actively participating in field day events may also wear these uniforms for field day. Students who have P.E. for the last period of the day may wear their P.E. uniform home if they are leaving before 3:30 p.m. Students should dress out for P.E. on special dress-down days (Spirit Week, character dress-up days, etc.).

EXTRACURRICULAR DRESS

The following relaxed and activity dress requirements are privileges that are meant to be followed just as closely as the regular school day dress code. These privileges can be withdrawn by the administration if students do not comply.

BALL GAME ATTIRE

Girls —

• Non-uniform skirts  may be worn if they come to the top of the knees when the girl is standing and sitting.
• Denim skirts may be worn if they are loose-fitting and come to the top of the knee when standing and sitting.
• Docker-style or cargo-style pants to the knee, or capri pants. Pajama pants and leggings are not acceptable.
• Non-athletic shorts that come to the knee while standing or sitting may be worn to spring and fall sporting events.  Shorts and pants must be loose-fitting. Any student in violation will be asked to change into her school uniform.
• Non-uniform tops may be worn but cannot be low-cut, tight, revealing, immodest, or sloppy in appearance. Low-cut necklines and crop tops are not appropriate. All tops should be long enough to permit a lady to raise her arms above her head without exposing her abdomen. (To measure a low cut, the neckline should not exceed the hand’s width from the collarbone.)
• Designer T-shirts may be worn if they are modest, neat, and without writing. CCS Spirit T-shirts may be worn as well if they are CCS-approved spirit wear.

Boys —

• Docker-style or cargo-style pants, or jeans.
• Shorts that come to the knee while standing or sitting may be worn to spring and fall sporting events. Pajama pants are not acceptable.
• Collared shirts must be tucked in. Clothing may not be torn or “shabby” in appearance. Belts and shoes are to be worn as well. T-shirts may be worn if they are CCS-approved spirit wear.

In an effort to keep from being offensive to schools that hold a different dress code, shorts will not be allowed for any away games.

The administration holds the prerogative to revoke this aspect of the dress code if there is continual conflict or violation.

SPECIAL EVENTS

From time to time, there will be exception made to the dress code for special events (i.e., field trips, Field Day, Beach Sweep, Spirit Week, etc.) The specific dress code will be announced for each event. Calvary-approved dress-down attire in general means no pajama pants, no leggings or jeggings, no pants with holes, no shorts, and shirts should follow the guidelines described in the “ball game attire” section above.

SPIRIT FRIDAY

Fridays are “Spirit days” unless otherwise announced. Students may wear uniform pants or skirts with their CCS spirit shirt or CCS hoodies. Boys’ spirit shirts do not need to be tucked in on spirit days.

FORMAL DRESS STANDARDS (Secondary Students)

Throughout the year, students will have the opportunity to take part in special formal banquets. All dresses must be checked by the faculty member in charge of dress check prior to the banquet. Each banquet is on the school calendar, and dress purchases should be planned accordingly to allow plenty of time for dress check and any alterations that need to be made.

• Ladies’ dresses should be loose so that the outlines of undergarments are not seen.
• The length must come to the bottom of the knee.
• Slits should be no higher than the bend of the knee, even when seated.
• The neckline cannot be any lower than the girl’s “hand-width” with the first finger on the collar bone.
• The backs should be no lower than the “armpit line.”
• Sleeveless dresses are permitted if the width of the shoulder strap is at least 2 inches and all sleeveless dresses are subject to approval.
• Spaghetti strap dresses and strapless dresses may be worn only with an opaque jacket. Shawls and wraps are not allowed in place of a jacket. If a dress requires a jacket, that jacket must be worn for the entire evening.
• Men should wear dress coats and ties.

If anyone shows up to a formal event in unapproved dress, or wearing an approved dress in an unapproved way, they will be asked to leave or will have to wait for someone to bring them appropriate dress.

PERFORMANCE ATTIRE STANDARDS

CCS has a standard “performance attire” students wear for all concerts and fine arts competitions, allowing us to present a more formal appearance. The clothing that has been selected is the culturally expected standard for concert attire. Our desire is to introduce our students to classical performance etiquette and to ensure that CCS meets these expectations.

All students in 1-8 grades are required to participate in Fine Arts performances and wear approved performance attire. Students in grades 9-12 may also elect to participate in choir activities. Secondary students not in proper performance attire will receive a penalty to their grade.

Performance attire for students in grades 1-6 is available through French Toast and TuxGear Inc. Grades 7-12 will purchase their performance attire from Formalwear  Outlet.

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DISCIPLINE

The purpose of discipline is to encourage students to develop biblical self-discipline in their lives (Prov. 25:28) and to aid young people in the development of Christian character. We want to help each student understand his responsibilities and to accept the consequences for his actions. Discipline of the student is the joint responsibility of parents, teachers, and the administration. We believe that parents and school personnel must cooperate fully with one another. Anything that tears down respect and confidence for either will harm the student.

The Bible gives several admonitions and principles regarding orderliness. Thus, at Calvary Christian School, firm and consistent discipline is maintained and tempered with love. Teachers maintain standards of behavior in the classroom through kindness, love, and a genuine concern for their students. Likewise, misbehavior is dealt with firmly and consistently.

The teacher handles most discipline problems in the classroom. If the teacher has to correct the student for multiple infractions, he may contact the parents of the student to inform them of the recurring problem and to seek parental correction of the difficulty. If parental involvement with the situation proves to be an ineffective remedy, the problem may be referred to the administration (supervisor and/or principal), who will counsel and perhaps impose some further form of discipline (Ps. 94:12; Heb. 12:10-11).

If a parent has a concern or question regarding student discipline, or some discipline-related situation occurs that is not understood, the parent should discuss it with the teacher. If the situation remains unresolved, the parent may then consult the administration.

PRESCHOOL DISCIPLINE POLICY

Each preschool child is expected to follow the directions and instructions of his teacher. To encourage proper behavior, teachers employ a variety of positive rewards (verbal praise, notes and phone calls home for good behavior, and class rewards). Likewise, teachers may also use a variety of methods to deter students from improper behavior. These methods will vary depending on the classroom, but their ultimate goal is to encourage students toward right and proper Christian behavior. These disciplinary actions may include, but are not limited to, loss of recess, loss of rewards, verbal rebuke, notes or phone calls to the parents, or discussion with the principal.

Preschool Disciplinary Offenses

The following examples are designed to help parents understand the Preschool Department’s general remediation of situations. Each situation will be reviewed and dealt with biblically in the wisdom and discretion of the teachers and administrators.

Disciplinary Probation

From time to time, it is necessary to put a student on disciplinary probation as the last resort before dismissal from school. The school’s Administrative Committee will review probation situations periodically. Students who have long-term behavioral probations will be asked to withdraw from the school.

Readmission After Disciplinary Action

To be considered for re-enrollment after being dismissed from the school (or for enrollment after dismissal from any other school), the student and his parent(s) or guardian must meet with the school administrator to determine if the discipline has accomplished the desired development in spiritual maturity. Normally, the school’s Administrative Committee will only consider a student for re-enrollment after one year has elapsed.

Additional Reasons For Dismissal

• Parent(s) will not cooperate with the administration of the school.
• A student’s negative influence makes it inadvisable for the student to remain at Calvary Christian School.
• Continual failure to achieve academically or continual lack of effort.
• Threats to a teacher or staff member.
• Destruction of school property.
• Forcible entry into any building after school hours (includes entering any unlocked window or bus).
• Obscene gestures and language directed at the faculty or staff.

These policies have been established in an effort to help protect children.

ELEMENTARY DISCIPLINE POLICY

Each elementary child is expected to follow the directions and instructions of his teacher. To encourage proper behavior, teachers employ a variety of positive rewards (verbal praise, notes and phone calls home for good behavior, and class rewards). Likewise, teachers may also use a variety of methods to deter students from improper behavior. These methods will vary depending on the classroom, but their ultimate goal is to encourage students toward right and proper Christian behavior. These disciplinary actions may include, but are not limited to, loss of recess, loss of rewards, verbal rebuke, notes or phone calls to the parents, or discussion with the principal. Fifth- and sixth-graders will be subject to the secondary disciplinary policy on a limited basis.

The disciplinary process for elementary students is as follows: 

1. Verbal warning from the classroom teacher.
2. Teacher consequence / referral.
3. Visit to the principal’s office.
4. Sending the student home for correction.

SECONDARY DISCIPLINE POLICY

With increased independence for secondary students, some actions requiring disciplinary actions are character development issues, while others are issues of the heart. Character development issues tend to be accidental and indicate the student’s need for self-discipline. On the other hand, more severe disciplinary issues are those actions that are deliberate and reveal a heart issue. The resulting discipline policy shows Calvary’s efforts to encourage students toward self-discipline while providing consequences for deliberate behaviors of insubordination.

Demerit System

Level 1 offenses = 1 demerit

Level 1 offenses are seen as a self-discipline issue. However, repeated offenses may indicate a heart issue. Level 1 offenses include things such as:

• Tardiness
• Unprepared for class
• Dress code violation
• Disturbing class
• Other procedure-like infractions

Level 2 offenses = 3 demerits

Level 2 offenses may indicate a heart issue that needs to be discussed and dealt with. Level 2 offenses include actions such as:

• Inappropriate use of technology
• Deliberate disobedience
• Deceitfulness
• Disrespect
• Destruction of property
• Inappropriate physical contact

The Detention Funnel

Each detention will be served for 1 hour.

• 1st Detention = 5 demerits (5 total)
• 2nd Detention = 4 demerits (9 total)
• 3rd Detention = 3 demerits (12 total)
• 4th Detention = 2 demerits (14 total)
• 5th Detention = 1 demerit (15 total)

Upon the 6th detention (17 total demerits), a student will also receive an OSS (see below) and be placed on disciplinary probation (see below).

• 6th Detention = 2 demerits (17 total)
• 7th Detention = 1 demerit (18 total)

If a student receives seven detentions within one semester (18 total demerits) or ten detentions in one year, the student has met grounds for expulsion.

Some violations of the student code of conduct or other school policies are grave enough to merit immediate, serious discipline. The school reserves the right to discipline a student, up to and including suspension or expulsion, for a more serious offense, such as stealing, cheating, forgery, fighting, vandalism, leaving campus without permission, skipping school, threats, harassment, sexual misconduct (heterosexual or homosexual), violation of viewing or music standards, repeated suspensions, the use of any illegal substance (including alcohol and tobacco in any amount), vaping, inappropriate posting on social media, or promotion of any such conduct by word or deed.

Students who have been so dismissed from the school will not be allowed on campus (during school hours or for after-school events) without the specific permission of the school administration. They may lose all credit for all courses in that semester and will not be allowed to take final exams or turn in course work for credit.

Detention Hall

Serving time in detention hall is the primary penalty for routine rule infractions among students in the secondary school and for those in the upper elementary school on a somewhat limited basis. The detention hall will be maintained after school from 3:20 p.m. until 4:20 p.m. on specified days. During detention, students may be required to do light janitorial duties.

Detention hall attendance is mandatory after the receipt of the detention form. It will take precedence over athletic practices, games, and work. Once in the detention hall, the student will be seated quietly, will not talk to other students, and will follow explicitly the directions of the detention hall supervisor. Some students may be asked to assist the school janitorial personnel during this time.

It is important that the student report to detention hall on time. A student reporting late (up to five minutes) receives a penalty amounting to twice the amount of time (number of minutes) that he was late. He will serve it after the other students are dismissed at 4:20 p.m. For example: a student who is four minutes late serves an additional eight minutes. A student who is over five minutes late, however, will serve out the remaining time on the original detention and is issued an additional penalty detention to be served at the next detention.

An additional penalty detention may be given if the student fails to report to detention hall when it has been assigned. As a result, this student will serve two consecutive detentions (one for the original hour plus the penalty hour).

Communication and Conversation

It is our goal as a school to partner with families in the training of their children. As such, we want to maintain constant communication regarding the discipline of students. Therefore, when a staff member issues demerits of any kind, the student will be notified during or after class by the teacher. In addition, the teacher will also send a behavior report to the parent(s) via FACTS SIS explaining the infraction and situation. Disagreements with disciplinary action should be first with the assigning teacher.

When a student has earned a detention, the high school supervisor will email the parent(s) explaining the reason and date of the detention. If at any time a parent would like to see the behavior record for their child, they should look in their FACTS SIS account for details.

In some cases, the student will meet with a staff member prior to serving detention. This meeting will be used to discuss the student’s reason for the behavior and come up with a plan for meeting the school expectation throughout the semester. We want to see students improve and grow, and we hope these conversations will aid them in that.

Suspensions and Disciplinary Probation

Suspension from school is a very serious matter. Parents will be contacted before the suspension is to be served. When a student is suspended, he must complete all missed work and take all tests and quizzes missed according to the unexcused absence policy. There will be academic consequences for suspension. Suspension may result in a revoking of privileges and positions of responsibility and trust.

Suspensions will be served as an Out of School Suspension (OSS). The student will be suspended from school for one day.

After a student is suspended, it is necessary to put a student on disciplinary probation as the last resort before dismissal from school. The school’s Administrative Committee will review probation situations periodically. Students will be expected to commit to school policies and procedures and if they continue to fail to do so they will be asked to withdraw from the school.

Readmission After Disciplinary Action

To be considered for re-enrollment after being dismissed from the school (or for enrollment after dismissal from any other school), the student and his parent(s) or guardian must meet with the school administrator to determine if the discipline has accomplished the desired development in spiritual maturity. Normally, the school’s Administrative Committee will only consider a student for re-enrollment after one year has elapsed.

Additional Reasons for Dismissal 

• Parent(s) will not cooperate with the administration of the school.
• A student’s negative influence makes it inadvisable for the student to remain in Calvary Christian School.
• Continual failure to achieve academically or continual lack of effort.
• Threats to teacher or staff member.
• Destruction of school property.
• Forcible entry into any building after school hours (includes entering any unlocked window or bus).
• Obscene gestures and language directed at the faculty or staff.

These policies have been established in an effort to help protect the students.

CORPORAL DISCIPLINE

Corporal correction is a biblical method of discipline in the home as noted in Proverbs (Prov. 13:24, 22:15, 23:13-14, 29:15). We do not practice it at school; notwithstanding, we believe it to be the best method of correction in many situations. Thus, though we may recommend it to parents as the solution for a particular disciplinary need, its implementation will remain solely their responsibility. Discipline and self-government are paramount to a student’s ability to learn. The school’s ability to nurture and develop biblical self-government in a student’s life will only be effective if biblical discipline is practiced in the home.

BIBLICAL RESPONSE TO QUESTIONABLE SITUATIONS

We understand that students are frequently faced with the dilemma of how to confront situations that are morally questionable. In addition, students are frequently faced with the conflict of how to deal with friends who have broken or are breaking stated school rules. It is our desire that students learn to confront one another in the spirit and instruction of Matthew 18. Therefore, a student should confront other students who are involved in actions contrary to biblical principles and institutional standards. If repentance is not achieved, the Gospel of Matthew instructs us to take another Christian to confront again. We suggest that students invite a teacher with whom they have a positive relationship to intercede with them. If repentance is still not achieved, the student, along with the one he has invited to intercede, should go to the administration. In this way, we seek to encourage students to stand for righteousness.

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FINANCIAL

Below is the financial policy of Calvary Christian School. Each parent is asked to read and sign the policy each year to indicate his understanding of and agreement with the policy.

1. Calvary Christian School does not request nor accept government funding; therefore it is necessary that fees and tuition be paid on a timely basis. No monthly statements will be mailed.
2. Unpaid balances of tuition and Patriots Club cannot be carried over from month to month. Parents who do not pay by the second overdue month will be notified that their children are not to attend classes on the first day of the coming month.
3. Lunch accounts that reach $100 past due will not be able to charge the account. 
4. All fees other than tuition are non-refundable and non-transferable.
5. Tuition is non-refundable if the student has been to school any day during the month, or if the student drops out without proper notification. Exception will be made if the account has been paid in full for the school year.
6. Registration for the Patriots Club (after school care program) is arranged through the front office. Fees may be paid in full or in nine monthly payments (September 1—May 1). It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the business office if after school care is discontinued. Please note: Monthly payments have been calculated based upon an annual rate and are due in full regardless of the number of school days in any given month.
7. Parents of all children not picked up by 6:00 p.m. will have a charge of $2.00 per minute added to their school bill.
8. There will be a $20 “Emergency Drop-In” fee charged to the account of a student who is not picked up by noon (K3 and K4) or 3:30 p.m. (Grades K5-12).
9. There will be a financial hold on report cards, transcripts, and other school records if payment is not current at the end of each grading period. This financial hold will remain in effect until the account is current. Students whose accounts are not up to date by the end of each semester will not be allowed to take their final exams for that semester. Students who do not take final exams will receive no credit for that semester’s work.
10. Students may not enroll in CCS Summer Day Camp unless the previous year’s account is current.
11. Parents are ultimately responsible for all payments.
12. Any special financial or payment arrangements must be requested in writing and approved by the administration.

NON-PAYMENT OF TUITION OR OTHER SCHOOL FEES

In the event of withdrawal, transfer, or expulsion, the parents are responsible for full payment of tuition and other fees. Full payment of tuition and other fees must be made through the end of the calendar month. The school reserves the right to withhold report cards and student records until tuition and other fees have been paid in full. By signing either the student handbook agreement, the initial application for enrollment, or an application for re-enrollment, you are authorizing the school to withhold report cards and other records until tuition and other fees have been paid in full.

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GENERAL POLICIES

AFTER-SCHOOL CARE

Calvary Christian School offers an after-school care program, called Patriots Club, for students in K3 through 6th grade. Students in preschool (K3 and K4) may choose to stay in Patriots Club (after-care) from 11:45 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. or from 11:45 a.m. until 6 p.m. Students in grades 1-6 may stay from the time their class is dismissed (around 3 p.m.) until 6 p.m. Registrations for Patriots Club are accepted in the school office on a first-come, first-served basis, and space is limited. There is a $75 registration fee to register for Patriots Club. Late pick-up charges are $2 per minute after 6 p.m. billed to your account. Additional details regarding Patriots Club can be obtained from a registration form via the front office.

Drop-in daycare can be used as needed. A registration fee is not required for periodical drop-ins. Please contact the front office to pre-arrange when drop-in care is needed on each occurrence. The cost is $10 per hour with arrangements. Unscheduled drop-ins will be charged $20 plus the hourly rate. 

BUS TRIPS

Throughout the year, there will be many opportunities to ride the bus. Guidelines for these trips include.

1. The bus driver is in charge and must be obeyed.
2. Cell phones are allowed for communication purposes only with permission. Cell phones are collected before departure and given back upon return. Students can ask permission to use them while away for communication purposes. No music, video, or gaming devices are allowed on the bus, including earphones or Airpods.
3. Sports teams are to ride together to away games unless otherwise announced.
4. Students are only allowed to ride home with their immediate family with verbal permission by the bus driver.

CLOSED CAMPUS

Calvary Christian School operates as a “closed campus.” This means that attendance at school is required from 8:10 a.m. until 3:10 p.m. Prior to 3:10 p.m., a student may not leave the school grounds without permission. A written note or parental call and office approval are required to leave during the day. When permission is given to leave campus, the student must report to the school office when departing and returning to sign the Check In/Out Register. A “closed campus” also means that non-students are not allowed on campus without permission. All visitors should register with the school office to receive a visitor’s badge. This policy is for the protection of our students.

DIVORCE AND SEPARATION

Divorced and separated families are realities of contemporary life which affect the school’s responsibilities to its students. The following policies have been adopted to assist the school in situations where a non-custodial parent wishes to become involved in school-related activities of a student, or wishes to have contact with or take custody of the student while at school.

1. Ordinarily, the school will not resist or interfere with a non-custodial parent’s involvement in school-related affairs, or access to the student’s records, unless the school is presented with a court order or comparable legal document which restricts such involvement or access. The school will not otherwise “choose sides” between parents.
2. In cases where legal documents restricting access have been presented, the school will not permit the non-custodial parent to take custody of a student or remove the student from school premises unless the parent presents either a written court order or a written authorization signed by the custodial parent permitting such custody.
3. If the actions of parent(s), custodial or non-custodial, become disruptive to the operations of the school, the school has the right to restrict access by such parent(s), and to take other reasonable necessary action.
4. Concerning student activities which require parental consent, the school will accept consent only from the custodial parent, unless authority to grant consent is given to the non-custodial parent by a court order or comparable legal document.
5. Copies of school work, certificates, awards, progress reports, report cards, and other communications from the school will be provided to the primary custodial parent only. Parents who have been awarded joint custody of their student must identify a primary custodial parent as the single point of contact for the school. The school will not be responsible for the duplication and distribution burden for divorced or separated families. It is expected that the custodial and non-custodial parents make their own arrangements for the sharing and distribution of school materials.

DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP PROCEDURES

Drop-off and pick-up is a complex process as we move students in and out of their vehicles in the safest and most efficient manner possible. The following procedures have been established for this process. We ask for your complete cooperation with these procedures, as those who disrupt the process slow things down and create safety hazards for everyone.

DROP-OFF PROCEDURES

Students K3-4th grade

Please drive around the circle in back of the school (turn into the Hidden Woods community beside the car dealership) and stop under the covered sidewalk by the opening in the gate. Staff members will supervise Back Parent Pick-up from 7:30-8:10 a.m. Students should walk to the lunchroom where staff members supervise them. Elementary students will be met by their teacher at 7:45 a.m. and taken to the classroom. (Elementary students arriving after 7:45 a.m. should report directly to the classroom.) High school students will be dismissed at 8:00 a.m. to go to their lockers and their homeroom classes.

Students 5th grade and up (and their siblings)

Drop off students at the front entrance of the school under the awning. A staff member supervises front office drop-off. Students should walk through the front office to the lunchroom/gymnasium where a staff member supervises them. Elementary students will be met by their teacher at 7:45 a.m. and taken to the classroom. (Elementary students arriving after 7:45 a.m. should report directly to the classroom.) High school students will be dismissed at 8:00 a.m. to go to their lockers and their homeroom classes.

Important Notes

• Please wait in a single line to drop off your child at the designated point. If it is necessary for you to pull over to the side for any reason, always pull back out and go through the line to drop off your child. Do not allow your child to “cut through” the line of cars — there is too great a risk that a child could be hit by a car!
• Parents should remain in their cars during drop-off.
• If you have children in both age groups, please use the front drop-off area for all children.
• We thank you in advance for NOT walking your children into the building. The separation is easier for your child at the car.
• We also thank you for not dropping in to talk to the teachers as school is beginning. Each of the teachers is responsible for watching his/her students and cannot effectively do so when trying to hold conversations with parents.
• When a student is dropped off after 8:10 a.m., parents must bring the student to the office to sign in. Students in 7th-12th grades who are late to homeroom (after 8:10 a.m.) receive an automatic tardy and demerit.

PICK-UP PROCEDURES

11:50 a.m. Pick-Up (K3—K4)

Please turn in at the driveway to Hidden Woods neighborhood and turn into the gated area behind the gymnasium. Please drive around the circle in back of the school and stop under the covered sidewalk by the opening in the gate. A staff member will be there to help each child open the car door and get in the car.

2:30 p.m. Pick-Up (K3—K4)

Please use the same procedure as the 11:50 a.m. Pick-Up.

Important Notes

• Please pull forward two car lengths if you need to secure your child in a car seat in order to allow the next car in line to pick up their child.
• In order to assist the staff workers, please place the provided 6” by 8” card with your child’s name clearly printed on it in the right-hand side of the windshield of your car. Please leave this in place all year.

2:45-3:00 p.m. Pick-Up (1st-3rd grades) / 3:00-3:10 p.m. 4th-6th grades / 3:10-3:30 p.m. 7th-12th grades

Please drive around the circle in back of the school and stop under the covered sidewalk by the opening in the gate. A staff member will be there to ensure each child gets safely into his car. Students in grades three through twelve will be dismissed in a sequential basis beginning at 2:45 p.m. and continuing until 3:30 p.m.

Younger siblings should wait in the lunchroom for their older sibling to be dismissed and walk them out to back parent pick-up. Parents should pick up all their children at the oldest sibling’s dismissal time.

ETEXTBOOKS

CCS students  in grades 6-12 have the opportunity to use eTextbooks. Students will bring their own tablet. The school will not be responsible for broken, lost, or stolen equipment or “dead” batteries. Teachers are not responsible to train students in the use of eTextbooks. Smart phones may not be used as eReaders at school, as the screen area is too small for classroom textbook use.

The temptation to misuse the equipment is real. Our goal is to provide an environment for students to learn responsible use of digital technology and mobile devices. Our Acceptable Use Policy will establish a “2 strikes – you’re out” standard. Consequences of inappropriate use are 1st offense: warning, demerit, notify parent; 2nd offense: confiscate equipment which will be returned at end of the school day, and the privilege not allowed at school anymore that year. (Offenses are counted schoolwide, yearlong. Acceptable use is defined as TEXTBOOK use only. No games, apps, photography, social media- Facebook, email, X, Instagram, music, movies, YouTube, research, etc.) If parents think that their student cannot be trusted, apps should be removed. Any “adult” themed material will be grounds for immediate suspension, permanent loss of privilege, and possible expulsion.

If a device has a “dead” battery, it will be up to the teacher whether or not to allow the student to plug the device in. Under no circumstance may students leave their device charging in classrooms or hallways. For liability reasons, students may not share or borrow another student’s device.

Students will not be able to connect to the school’s wireless network while on campus. Mobile “hot spots” are not allowed and any use on campus will be grounds for permanent confiscation and suspension.

LOCKERS

Student lockers are the property of the school and are provided as a service for students to secure their belongings. Any locker may be opened and its contents may be searched or examined by school authorities without the permission of the student at any time when deemed, at the sole discretion of the school authorities, necessary to do so.
Students must understand clearly the following guidelines:

1. Students should not switch lockers with another student. If a student uses a locker, it must be the one to which that student was assigned. Students who violate this rule will be subject to discipline.
2. Combination locks are available by specific request. Please note that if a student chooses to use a combination lock they are still required to make it to class on time. Only school-issued combination locks may be used.
3. Lockers will not be propped open with any object to circumvent the combination lock.
4. Lockers may be inspected and searched at any time by the administration.
5. Lockers must be kept clean inside and out.
6. Stickers are not allowed on any part of the lockers, inside or outside.
7. Magnetic items are not allowed on exterior surfaces.
8. Students must not place anything on the lockers that they cannot easily remove without affecting the surface of the locker.
9. Writing or painting on any part of the lockers is not allowed.
10. It is unwise to leave valuable items in a locker. Students should carry the items with them or check with the office if the items need special security.
11. Students will use lockers to store the items brought to school each day. Backpacks may not be carried from room to room (this includes book bags and large handbags or tote bags). Students are expected to visit their lockers between classes and bring only course materials into the classroom.
12. Students, including siblings, should not open any other student’s locker for any reason, regardless of whether or not another student has given permission. Unauthorized entry into any locker is grounds for expulsion. A staff member must be present to open the locker.
13. Students are responsible to pay for any locker damage they do in violation of the above rules.
14. Any problems with a locker should be reported to the office or to a designated staff member.

The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged goods belonging to students.

LUNCHES AND LUNCHROOM

Daily specials and regular menu items are available for purchase each day in our lunchroom for students in grades K3-12. Lunch orders should be placed in advance using FACTS SIS. Students may pay daily in the lunchroom or parents may open a lunch “account” from which daily purchases will be deducted.

FUNDRAISERS

Calvary uses fundraisers for two primary purposes. School-wide fundraisers are used to make improvements to our campus. Individual classes may also use fundraisers to raise monies for their trips and activities. Your support of and involvement in these fundraisers is greatly appreciated. All fundraisers must be pre-approved by the administration.

SCRIP

CCS introduced its SCRIP program to families in the fall of 2006 as a way to help the school and its families raise thousands of dollars — without costing anyone one extra cent. The program utilizes scrip (a Latin term that means anything used instead of money). We have partnered with an organization called UnitedScrip to offer a unique program that maximizes our collective purchasing power and turns normal spending dollars into profit. Literally thousands of dollars are spent monthly by families for their normal purchases. The goal is to turn those dollars into profit for CCS and for YOU!

The program works like this: UnitedScrip purchases gift cards (scrip), locally and nationally, from grocery, restaurant, retail, and department stores in large quantities, at a discount. Families purchase the gift cards at face value from CCS. CCS earns a percentage (2 – 20%) on each purchase — which we share with you!

After withholding a small amount to cover expenses, we share all profits of the program with our families — 50% to the school and 50% back to the family to pay toward the next year’s tuition expense. Our tracking program keeps up with each family’s individual purchases. This means that each family earns 50% of the profits generated by their own purchases. Only those families that participate will benefit — and they will benefit at the level at which they participate.

Additional bonus: In order to help families with uniform expenses, Lands’ End gift cards (currently a 14% profit level), will pay 100% of the profit back to families!

Please contact the school office for more information.

HOURS

School is in session from 8:10 a.m. until 3:10 p.m.

Elementary students arriving on campus before 7:50 a.m. should report directly to the lunchroom for supervised before school care. Elementary teachers will meet their students in the lunchroom at 7:50 a.m. and walk them to class. Elementary students arriving on campus after this time should report directly to their classroom.

High school students arriving on campus before 8 a.m. should report directly to the gym for supervised before-school care. At 8 a.m., high school students are dismissed to visit their lockers and report to homeroom.

No student should arrive on campus before 7:30 a.m. Our staff does not arrive for duty until 7:30 a.m. and we cannot provide supervision before this time.

All students on campus after 3:30 p.m., except for those in official extracurricular activities under the direct supervision of coaches/teachers, must report to after-school care. The fee for after-school care is the responsibility of the parents and begins at 3:30 p.m. The after-school care worker will keep track of who is on campus after 3:30 p.m. and the business office will charge parents monthly according to the time the child spent in after-school care. (Note: This information is intended to cover students not enrolled in Patriots Club. Attendance times for Patriots Club students are covered in detail in the “After School Care” section of the handbook under the “General Policies” heading of the handbook.)

ILLNESS, INJURY, AND MEDICATION

MEDICAL NOTE

The South Carolina Code of Laws, 1976 and Regulation 61-8, states that no child shall be admitted to any public, private, or parochial school, grades kindergarten through twelve (K-12), or any child development program under the control of the Department of Education without first presenting a valid South Carolina Certificate of Immunization or religious exemption form issued by SCDHEC. To be valid, the South Carolina Certificate of Immunization must be signed by an individual licensed to practice medicine, surgery, or osteopathy or his/her authorized representative (Health Department or family doctor).

GENERAL INFORMATION

 For the welfare of your child and others in the school, all children who are sick must be kept at home. Parents will be called to pick up a child if his temperature is 100 degrees or higher or if he is vomiting. Students sent home with a fever or vomiting may not return to school for 24 hours from the last symptom. Assignments may be sent home to help the student keep up with his work while recovering.

If a student is injured, the school will try immediately to reach the parent or guardian. In the meantime, the school will take the necessary steps that seem reasonable to care for the injury. In the case of an injury that requires medical treatment, the school will provide a supplemental student accident insurance form at the request of the parent.

When at all possible, we encourage parents to schedule their student’s medication so that it may be given at home under his direct supervision. However, we realize that this is not always possible. Prescription medicine is given at parental request if it is in a prescription bottle with a prescription label identifying the student to receive the medication and accompanied by a specific time for administration. Over-the-counter medication is given at parental request if it is in a sealed container and accompanied by the name of the medication and a specific time for administration. All such requests must be made in writing, signed by a parent. All medications will be kept locked in a medicine cabinet within the administration area. No student will be allowed to take any medication on his own while at school.

Unforeseen need for ibuprofen/acetaminophen and cough drops during the school day will be handled as follows:

Students will be given, at their request, ibuprofen/acetaminophen and cough drops in accordance with package dosage guidelines, as needed when parents have so indicated in FACTS SIS. A record of medications dispensed is maintained in the office.

OFFICES

The school office is open for business each day, Monday through Friday, between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. during the school year unless otherwise indicated on school calendars. Anyone who has questions or needs information concerning school policies and activities may call or visit the school office during these hours. If a parent must bring homework, books, or other materials to his child during the school day, he must stop at the office to arrange for delivery. A parent desiring to visit a classroom during the day should make prior arrangements and must check in at the office.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Conferences to discuss the student’s progress and needs will be scheduled with parents periodically throughout the school year. Parents are always welcome to ask for extra conferences. We do ask, however, that parents call or send a written request for a conference with the teacher before coming. Teachers are on campus until 3:30 p.m. on school days and are willing to work with parents in scheduling conferences at mutually convenient times. If parents have questions or concerns about a teacher or a student’s homework, grade, or conduct, please arrange to speak with the teacher before coming to the administration. As a general rule, the administration will require this before taking action.

An orientation is scheduled to start in the school year for parents to meet teachers and visit the classrooms, and conferences are optional throughout the year for parents to check their children’s progress. Parents are encouraged to attend all meetings.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical education uniforms are required for all 5th-9th grade students participating in physical education classes. This uniform is available through Lands’ End, and proper athletic shoes are a required part of the uniform. All uniforms and shoes should be labeled. Students who are not dressed out will receive disciplinary action. If a student is not dressed out for three consecutive classes, the student will be asked to order a new P.E. uniform. P.E. uniforms should be washed frequently. P.E. uniforms should be worn on special dress-down days (Spirit Week, character dress-up days, etc.).

If a student is physically unable to participate in physical education class, a doctor’s note should be provided to the attendance secretary in the front office, who will relay that information to the coaches.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

Music devices, video and electronic games, skateboards, illegal drugs, tobacco of any kind, smoking paraphernalia of any kind, beer, or other alcoholic beverages at or away from school, narcotic drugs, knives, guns, matches, and explosives of any kind are not permitted on school property. Books, catalogs, or any other materials not directly related to a course of study or in violation of Calvary’s media content philosophy are not to be brought to school. These items will be taken away and in some cases not returned.

All policies apply to students attending school-sponsored functions.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION

If school is to be canceled due to inclement weather, or if the school day is to be adjusted in any way, you will be advised by way of text through Parent Alert, the school website and Facebook page. Please note that CCS does not operate on Horry County Schools closure schedules or procedures. Administration follows weather events and makes the best decision possible using the information available at that time that takes into consideration the safety of our students and staff. Families should do the same.

Refer to the Important Dates Calendar sent at the beginning of the year and posted online for days school will be closed for holidays or other events.

STUDENT DRIVERS

Students who plan to drive to school must obtain permission from the high school office in advance. Driving to school is a privilege that may be revoked at any time that the student demonstrates an unwillingness to assume the responsibility of that privilege. The following regulations must be observed:

1. All student driven cars are to be registered in the high school office.
2. Students are to park in the student parking lot, and the cars are not to be moved until the student leaves for the day unless otherwise instructed.
3. Cars are to be locked while parked on school grounds and may not be occupied during school hours.
4. As soon as the student arrives at school, he (and all riders) must leave the car and go to their designated waiting area.
5. Students may not go to their cars during the school day without a pass from the faculty or administration.

STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS

Students should be above reproach in their relationships in and out of school. This is particularly important in boy-girl relationships. Holding hands, embracing, kissing, or any other form of physical contact is not allowed anywhere on campus or at any school-related function. Students are not permitted to be alone in an unobserved location. Any infraction of these policies will result in a conference with the students and parents involved. Appropriate disciplinary action will result, including suspension or expulsion.

USE OF CELLULAR PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Students may not use cell phones on campus between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Students may use the phone in the office lobby if they need to contact a parent or guardian during the school day. It is recognized that parents may choose to provide their students with cell phones for safety and coordination issues. However, to avoid temptation and distraction in the classrooms, if students choose to bring their cell phones on campus, the cell phones must remain turned off during school hours and be stored in the secure cell phone storage area in the front office during school hours. Student cell phones are not permitted in any school building other than the office between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:10 p.m. Students must pick up their cell phones from the storage area after 3:10 p.m. and before 3:30 p.m.; the office is locked after 3:30 p.m. Students remaining on campus until 4:30 p.m. should not use their phone without permission from a teacher.

If a cell phone is seen or heard during the school day in an unauthorized location, it will be confiscated and turned into the principal’s office. Only a parent may retrieve the confiscated phone. Students who have their cell phone confiscated for unauthorized use waive their right to privacy. Confiscated phones may be examined, including numbers called, pictures, texts, etc. On the third infraction of this policy, the student will not be allowed to bring a cell phone on campus for the remainder of the year. Continued infractions will result in OSS. Students may request special permission to use their cell phone from a teacher when the office phone is not available.

When cell phone use is approved, it should be used for communication purposes only (talk/text). Cell phones may not be used for gaming, video (watching or taking), taking pictures, listening to music, internet, social media, etc. Students should never post pictures or videos of other students on any public platform without their parental permission.

SOCIAL NETWORKING

CCS depends upon parents to monitor social networking (i.e., Facebook, X, Instagram, etc.). However, if anything is brought to the administrations’ attention that directly affects, mentions, and/or portrays CCS negatively, it will be addressed as the administration deems appropriate. If ungodly behavior is displayed (such as drinking, smoking, drug use, sexuality, profanity, etc.), the administration reserves the right to administer discipline, including suspension and expulsion.

Students will be allowed to use cell phones on bus trips for the purpose of communication with their families at arrival and departure times. Cell phones will be collected by the accompanying chaperone or driver and kept until approved use.

Electronic devices, including but not limited to, PDAs, iPods, cameras, Airpods, and video cameras, are not allowed on campus. If an electronic device is seen on campus it will be confiscated and held in the principal’s office. Only a parent of the student may retrieve the device from the principal’s office.

Tablets and laptops may be used at school only for academic-related tasks. They should not be used for games or internet surfing during classes or breaks. Any student who uses his laptop for any reason other than an approved academic-related task will lose his privilege for the remainder of the semester. All laptops must have internet capabilities disabled unless specifically allowed by the supervising teacher.

VISITORS

All visitors, including parents, are to check in at the office. Students must obtain permission from the administration before bringing a visitor to school. Visitors should abide by the same standards of dress and conduct as Calvary students. Generally, a student visitor will not be allowed to attend on special school days or on exam days.

CEASE OPERATION CLAUSE

In the event of the permanent closure of Calvary Christian School, lifetime maintenance of school and student records transfers to the South Carolina Association of Christian Schools.

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STUDENT/PARENT AGREEMENT CLAUSE

It is the policy of Calvary Christian School that each student and parent read carefully and sign the statement of cooperation before enrollment for the school year is complete. By signing this statement, full cooperation with the rules and regulations of the school is expected.

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Updated 7/23/2024