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School Handbook

"Unless the Lord builds the house, its builder labors in vain" Ps. 127. We at HCS praise God for the opportunity to use God's Word as a blueprint for our lives and the lives of our children.  In this handbook are school policies and regulations that reflect our commitment to God and His Word.  Because HCS professes to follow Christ, students are expected to conduct themselves in a Christ-like manner, both on and off campus.

Education is the responsibility of the home.  Cooperation between home and school is extremely important.  Please read and study this handbook carefully so that both home and school can be consistent in the educational process.

Table of Contents


INTRODUCTION


 Philosophy

  1. All children are created in the image of God and placed on earth to serve God and man.  Christian schools recognize the true nature and purpose of man.  No child shall be denied entrance on the basis of race, national origin, sex or color.
  2. Hanford Christian School is a society owned and operated organization.  The society is designed to educate the children of Christian parents.  It is not a part of any denomination, but it is supported by the 1st CRC.  Membership in the Hanford Christian School Society shall be open to Christian parents of currently enrolled students, or it could be those members eighteen years of age who are of recognized supporting churches who agree with the basis and principles of the Hanford Christian School Society. Those members must have given a formal declaration of their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and acknowledgment of the Word of God as the only infallible rule of faith and practice. Membership includes the privilege of voting at the meetings of this society as well as readiness to participate in activities in behalf of the school entered into by the organization.
  3. Hanford Christian School Society uses the following basic principles as the foundation upon which the organization is operated:
  • The basis of all meaningful life is the belief in God and in Jesus Christ as the only way to personal salvation.
  • The Bible is the only inspired, inerrant, authoritative Word of God.
  • The Bible is the main avenue by which we can come to know God and His rule for our lives.
  • We need this Word in order to correctly understand God's general revelation which includes creation and life around us. All of life needs to be interpreted in the light of God's Word.
  • Christian education's aim is to relate the Christian faith and Biblical teachings directly to all of knowledge and the practical application of that knowledge in daily life.
  • Christian education seeks the complete development of each child: his intellectual, physical, spiritual, emotional, and social growth (Luke 2:52).
  • The Reformed Standards with their emphasis upon the all-embracing Calvinistic world and life view are helpful in an understanding of Christian education. This emphasis is reflected in the statements of the Heidelberg Catechism, The Canons of Dort, and The Belgic Confession which assist in the interpretation of God's Word.
  • The primary authority and responsibility of educating children rests with the parents (Deuteronomy 6 and Ephesians 6). The authority of the teacher in discipline and character training is derived from the fact that he stands in loco parentis, and the teacher derives authority in subject matter from faithfulness to the laws of God in special and general revelation.
  • The Christian community is responsible for supporting and encouraging Christian education for its children. It is because of these principles that Hanford Christian School was established. It is the society's desire to provide a high quality Christian education for children from Christian homes.
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ABSENTEEISM


Absenteeism causes a variety of problems for the student, teacher, and class. We encourage parents to be supportive of consistent school attendance. Obviously, some absences will take place. The policy that will be used regarding absence is as follows:

A. Unforeseen absences

  1. If a child is sick and the absence is unforeseen, a parent should notify the school by telephone the morning of the absence. A note should accompany the child when he/she returns to school explaining the nature of the absence, if the parent was unable to contact the school by phone. Students in grades 6th-8th will use the following procedure when returning after being absent:
    • The student must come to the school office when he or she arrives at school.
    • A note must be presented to the secretary, or the parent should call the school office, explaining the nature of the student’s absence.
    • The student will then receive a pass in order to re enter the class.
  2. Unforeseen absences which are acceptable are those related to sickness, death in the family, or an emergency. In these cases the child will be given due consideration in making up work.
  • The child is responsible to get all missed assignments.
  • This work will be due in complete form after one day for each day of absence which has elapsed. For example: Absent Monday and Tuesday - the child has Wednesday and Thursday to complete the work which must be handed in on Friday at the beginning of class.

B. Foreseen absences

  1. If the absence is foreseen, the parents are to contact the teacher before the date the child is to be absent. This is to be done preferably in person, although if this is not possible, then by phone. This should not be done by means of a written note.
  2. If the absence is for part of the day, such as for a doctor or dentist appointment, please call or send a written note the day prior to the appointment.
  3. The following pre-planned absences are discouraged- vacations, skiing trips, working, shopping, any type of lessons, etc. These absences can cause attitudes that are detrimental to good learning habits. Absences also take away time from teachers being able to instruct the class, when they have to help the student make up the gaps in the learning process. The following procedure will be used for make up work for these types of absences:

a. K-4 POLICY

  1. Assignments will be gathered during the time of the child’s absence.
  2. The day the child returns, the parent must meet with the teacher after school to pick up and receive instructions on missed assignments.
  3. A child will have one day for each day of absence to make up the work missed, but not to exceed 5 school days.

b. 5-8 POLICY

  1. Assignments will be gathered during the time of the child’s absence.
  2. The day the child returns the parent must meet with the teacher after school to pick up and receive instructions on missed assignments.
  3. Parents are responsible to schedule a time to give tests at school and assist in correcting and reteaching any work.
  4. A child will have one day for each day of absence to make up the work missed.
  5. If parents do not comply with these learning opportunities for their children by eliminating step B, no daily work will be given to students and missed daily work will be recorded as an F.
  6. If a test was missed during a planned absence, it must be taken on the first day the student returns to school. If a regularly scheduled test is given on the day the student returns, the test must be taken on that day with the rest of the class. No modification of the test will be made because of missed learning opportunities. Delayed testing affects the quality of learning for other students since tests cannot be returned and discussed. Book reports and major projects which carry the same weight as a test are due on the second day after the student returns.

NOTE: It is our hope that together parents and teachers will communicate by their actions to the students that they have a common, shared goal of providing a faithful, Christ-centered education to each covenant child.

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ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

Students are not expected to arrive before 8:15 a.m. unless they have permission from the school or they are dependents of the HCS staff. Students not riding a bus are expected to be picked up by 3:10 p.m. Please be prompt in picking up your child(ren).

If a foggy day schedule is called, arrival for a 2 hour delay is 10:15, and for a 3 hour delay 11:15.

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BICYCLES

Bicycles may be ridden to school by 5th through 8th graders and parked in a designated area. Those arriving by bicycle must not arrive earlier than 8:15 a.m. unless they have permission. Bicycles are not to be ridden on the school grounds during the school day.

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BUS CODE OF CONDUCT

  • A. Bus transportation is available to all students who reside in the bus service area. While on the bus, the students are required to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner. This is necessary for two reasons:
    1. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a Christian manner. Any activity that disobeys rules, shows disrespect for the driver and his/her authority, or downgrades and harms a fellow student is not God-honoring. This behavior is definitely not to be expected of a Christian school student.
    2. Inappropriate activity on the bus becomes distracting to the bus driver and could create a safety hazard for all who are on the bus.
  • B. The following is a set of behavior requirements for the students.
    1. Respect the rights of other students while on the bus and while waiting for the bus.
    2. Obey the directions and orders of the driver. The bus driver will assign seats and bring disobedient students to the attention of the principal.
    3. Keep arms and head inside the bus at all times.
    4. Do not call out the window or make gestures in any way towards any one outside the bus.
    5. Keep feet and belongings out of the aisles while seated.
    6. Remain properly seated in the assigned seat while the bus is moving.
    7. Board and leave the bus only at designated stops. If a student has a note from a parent, he or she will need to get a bus pass from the office. This bus pass must be presented to the driver when the student boards the bus. It may not be possible to process phoned requests for bus passes before departure time.
    8. Do not drink or eat food or candy (including gum) on the bus.
    9. No animals may be transported on the bus.
    10. No glass or breakable items are allowed on the bus.
    11. No cell phones, radios, CD’s or headphones are allowed on the bus.(or at school)
    12. Shoes must be worn at all times.
    13. Students shall not apply makeup while on the bus.
    14. No laser lights or pen lights are allowed.
  • C. Bus service must be considered a privilege and any student who fails to abide by this code may lose that privilege. The following procedure for discipline is to be followed by the bus driver:
    1. The students will receive one verbal warning when an infraction is observed.
    2. On the second offense, whether it be of the same nature or different, the student will be moved to a newly assigned seat for one week.
    3. If the student continues to remain disobedient, he or she will receive a citation which the student will bring home to have signed by the parent and brought back to the principal's office the next day. If the citation is not signed or brought back, the principal will contact the parents. The bus driver will notify the principal.
      • If a second citation is issued, the principal will contact the parents and bus privileges may be taken away.
      • If a third citation is issued, bus privileges will be taken away for at least five days.
    4. It should be understood that serious and dangerous behavior on the part of a student may warrant the above procedure to be omitted for appropriate immediate correction. Any damage to the bus caused by a student will result in a fine according to the cost of the repair.

NOTE: Students should be at their designated stop five minutes before their scheduled pick-up time in the morning.

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DISCIPLINE

A. Objective of biblical discipline

  1. Discipline is administered to provide structure and support to enable a student to perform his work in such a manner that learning takes place.
  2. Discipline is administered to teach the student to be submissive to God and the authorities God has placed over the student.  Discipline helps the student recognize how man's natural tendency to hate God and his neighbor influences his behavior.
  3. Discipline is administered to help the student learn the blessed state of living a God-glorifying life. Discipline is used to help the student learn that obedience results in happiness whereas "the way of the transgressor (unfaithful) is hard." (Proverbs 13:15)
  4. Discipline is administered in such a manner that the child will be able to make the choice to avoid further corrective action.

B. Philosophy and procedures for biblical discipline

Discipline is an integral part of any educational program. Because every aspect of the program is to be seen in the light of Scripture in Christian education, the objectives and methods used in carrying out discipline also must develop from the teachings of God's Word. Discipline is discipling children to grow as followers of Jesus Christ. Biblically, corporal punishment as an aspect of discipline is not a negative matter in correcting children nor is it to be seen as a last resort.  When one studies the book of Proverbs, a book especially given to help us in raising children, one finds repeated instruction to children to listen to their parents. In the school’s understanding of education, Christian teachers are representatives of the parents, so that what Scripture says about a child’s relationship to his parents is also true of the child's relationship to his teacher.

In Proverbs 1:8 is written: "Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching."  To listen is to gain wisdom; to not listen is foolish and when "foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child", using some form of the Biblical rod principle "will drive it far from him."(Proverbs 22:15) When this Biblical principle of discipline is carried out in a loving attitude as directed in Ephesians 6:4 ("Fathers do not exasperate your children; instead bring them  up in the training and instruction of the Lord.") and Colossians 3:21 ("Fathers do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged."), it works so effectively. A wonderful promise is given in Proverbs 29:15 and 17:"The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself        disgraces his mother. Discipline your son, and he will give you peace; he will bring delight to your soul."

As extensions of the home, the staff believes that parents who send their children to Hanford Christian School want Biblical discipline. It is not promoting  self-esteem that is needed for our covenant children, as many expressions of humanistically based positions on discipline promote. It is promoting submission to Jesus Christ's lordship and carrying out a disciplined life of servanthood toward our fellow man that is needed. The latter will  prepare our children for a meaningful role as adults in Christ's Kingdom. Some people would purport that there are legal risks in following a Biblical position on discipline, but why would a child be enrolled in a Christian school unless the parents wanted their child educated Biblically?

C. Methods used in carrying out biblical discipline

  1. For any general misbehavior a student will be instructed to stop his/her misbehavior by the teacher. The student will be told specifically what behavior is expected of him or her for the specific situation.
    2.  
  2. For repeated misbehavior of the same nature the student will be admonished consistently by the teacher. Also included with the verbal admonitions may be disciplinary instructional activities related to the misbehavior such as staying in to finish work, "time out" on the bench during recess, removal from class until the teacher can talk to the child, etc.
  3. If the teacher determines the verbal discipline or other disciplinary instructional activities are not effecting a positive change, the student will be told that on the next similar offense he or she will be placed on warning for a specified period of time. If there is a more general class problem, the whole class may be placed on warning.
  4. The teacher will explain to the students that to be on warning means that on a subsequent similar offense, they will receive some form of the biblical rod principle as discipline.

    • For grades K-4 the first administration of corporal punishment will be a firm slap on the back of the child’s hand administered by an adult of the same sex as the child, while encouraging the child that it is hoped he or she will not need to be punished this way again.  All hand slaps will be witnessed by another adult.  The student will receive another slap on the back of the hand if he or she repeats the offense within a specified period of time.  For younger children the specified period of time will be short, ordinarily the length of time for the learning activity in process.  For older students the specified time may be "the rest of the morning" or "the remainder of the day." With a few exceptions the warning will not be extended overnight to the next day.

      For repeated offenses where the child is not responding positively to a slap on the back of the hand, in cooperation with the decision of the administrator, a swat on the buttocks with a paddle will be administered by an adult of the same sex as the child and will be witnessed by another adult.    Records will be kept for all such incidents. All swats will be administered with a paddle, according to and after a clearly laid out plan about which the child has been instructed. The child will be told that a subsequent offense that merits a paddle will result in two swats. An additional swat will be applied for each added offense. If the above measures do not effect the desired change, the parents of the child will be involved in further planning of action to help the child grow in becoming submissive to the school's authority.

    • For grades 5-8, because of the vulnerability of most junior high students, the teacher will hold an individual session with the student before proceeding with the following plan. The teacher will show the student a passage like Ephesians 6:1-3, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother-which is the first commandment with a promise- that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth", or Proverbs 22:15, "Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it from him." If a child appears belligerent or otherwise non-responsive to the Biblical instruction, it will be indicated to the child that the teacher personally believes the above biblical principles are right. Because of that belief the teacher is under obligation before God to carry out the school's policy. The teacher will also specifically indicate to the student what behavior he is to stop and what positive behavior should replace the undesirable behavior using Scripture, if at all possible. After explaining the following procedure, the teacher will close the session with prayer. Documentation of the problem will be made by the teacher.
      1. At the first occurrence after the counseling session of the specific undesirable behavior of concern, the teacher will warn the student once, reminding the student of the Scripture verses discussed. The administrator will be informed of the problem and action taken thus far.
      2. The second occurrence after the counseling session will result in the student being sent to the office for consultation with the administrator.
      3. The third offense after the counseling session will result in the child being sent to the office and receiving a swat on the buttocks. The swat will be administered by an adult of the same sex as the child and will be witnessed by another adult. Records will be kept for all such incidents.  All swats will be administered with a paddle. This will be administered as soon as possible after the offense. An added swat will be applied for each added offense.
      4. At this point the parent will be called by the administrator and asked to come in for a staffing to plan out further action. The home and school will develop a specific plan to help the student overcome his or her undesirable behavior. The established school staffing process will be followed.

      D. Specific misbehavior in grades K-8

      1. Fighting: All students will be informed at the beginning of the school year and periodically during the year that any fighting where physical blows are given will result in a swat on the buttocks with a paddle to both fighters administered by an adult of the same sex as the child and will be witnessed by  another adult. Records will be kept for all such incidents. All swats will be administered with a paddle. If one child strikes another and the other does not retaliate physically, only the child doing the striking will receive the swat.
        • Before the swat is administered, the child will be counseled as to how conflicts are to be resolved.
        • Only fights actually observed by staff personnel will result in swats.  If a fight is reported by other students, the students involved will be counseled on the proper manner to resolve conflicts and what the consequences will be.
        • After one swat is given the child's name will be recorded in the discipline card file.  The student will be told a subsequent offense will result with two swats. An added swat will be applied for each added offense.
      2. Tussling in the bathroom. All students will be informed at the beginning of the school year that any tussling in the bathroom, if observed by a teacher, will result in a swat on the buttocks with a paddle administered by an adult of the same sex as the child and will be witnessed by another adult. Records will be kept for all such incidents. All swats will be administered with a paddle.
        • Before the swat is administered, the child will be counseled about the dangers of tussling in the bathrooms.  The student will also be reminded that because restrooms are difficult to supervise, the consequence of tussling is a swat.
        • The child will be told that a subsequent offense that merits a paddling will result in two swats.  An added swat will be applied for each added offense.
      3. Language
        • Any profane use of God’s holy name will result in a swat.
          1. Before the swat is administered, the child will be counseled as to how important it is to speak in a godly way, and especially how holy God’s name is.
          2. After a swat is given, the child’s name will be recorded in the discipline card file, and the child will be told that a subsequent offense which merits paddling will result in two swats. An added swat will be applied for each offense.
        • No crude language will be tolerated and will be subject to discipline as determined by the principal. Jesus said men shall give an account to God in the Day of Judgment for every idle or careless word they speak.(Matthew 12:36)
        • Bullying is not tolerated at HCS. Discipline will follow program steps as outlined in C. 4 a or b.
        • Other behavior besides fighting, tussling, and profane use of God’s holy name which may result in a swat include blatant disrespect to teachers or anyone else in the school, vandalism, dangerous actions, illegal acts, lewdness, chronic disobedience, crude language, slander, malicious gossip,   dishonesty, stealing, fits of rage, cruelty, blasphemy, and            encouraging others to do wrong.

NOTE: Before a swat is administered, an attempt to notify the parents  will be made. All swats and hand slaps will be administered by an adult of the same sex as the child and witnessed by another adult. All swats are administered with a wooden paddle, which is 18"(long) X 3" (wide) X 3/4" (thickness), with a 5" handle. Records will be kept by the administrator for all swats and hand slaps administered.

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DRESS CODE

A. A neat and properly attired student will have a positive influence on the attitudes and study habit he or she exhibits. "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight." I Peter 3:3 & 4. Everyone is expected to dress in Christian modesty. Areas requiring specific attention:

1. GIRLS

  • a. Dresses, shorts and coordinated outfits which are modest and of reasonable length may be worn. Shorts must have a minimum inseam of five inches. Dresses and skirts with hemlines above the fingertips with arms extended along the sides are not permitted. Blue jeans may be worn if they are neat, not tattered, or excessively worn. Tops and bottoms must not be oversized, undersized, sloppy, nor revealing. Underwear should not be showing. No bare midriffs or tank tops are allowed. Lettering on shirts should be consistent with our school philosophy. Shirts should cover the midriff, even when arms are raised over the head. If there is a violation of this rule, proper clothing will be provided for the girl (for example, a PE shirt) and the parents will be called to inform them of this rule infraction. On the second offense, or any further offense, the parents will have to come to school to bring proper attire for the student. Students will wait in the office until proper attire arrives.
  • b. No body piercing jewelry is to be worn by girls, but there is an exception for earrings.
  • c. Students are encouraged to keep the natural look in make up and hairstyles. There will be no dyeing or bleaching of hair of any kind.
    1. Parents will be called of any grooming infractions.
    2. Hair must be re-dyed to its natural color, if the hair has been colored.
    3. The Administrator will send the student home, if the problem is not fixed after 2 days.
  • d. Open sandals are discouraged for student's safety. Shoes and sandals must have a heel strap for safety. Closed toe and low heels are recommended.
  • e. Roller skates, shoes with rollers, or roller blades are not allowed at school.

2. Boys

  • a. Blue jeans may be worn, if they are neat and not noticeably worn or tattered. Shirts and pants must not be oversized, sloppy, or revealing. Underwear will not be showing. Tank tops, muscle shirts, and plain white T shirts are not permitted. Lettering on T shirts should be consistent with our school philosophy.
  • b. Boy’s hair must be neat, clean and well-groomed to a reasonable length. There will be no dyeing or bleaching of hair of any kind. Hair fads, spiked hair, pony tails or braids will not be permitted.
    1. Parents will be called of any grooming infractions.
    2. Hair must be re-dyed to its natural color, if the hair has been colored.
    3. The Administrator will send the student home, if the problem is not fixed in 2 days.
  • c. Earrings or other body piercing jewelry may not be worn at school by boys.
  • d. No hats may be worn inside.
  • e. Open sandals are discouraged for student's safety. Shoes and sandals must have a heel strap for safety. Closed toe and low heels are recommended.
  • f. Roller skates, shoes with rollers, or roller blades are not allowed at school.

B. The school reserves the right to judge the appropriateness of any child’s grooming or any clothing that a child is wearing to school. If, in the judgment of the administrator, a student's clothing is not appropriate, he will determine whether correction should be made immediately or whether the child will be reprimanded and told not to wear that clothing again. If the clothing is of the nature that it should be corrected immediately, the parents will be notified to either pick up the child or bring a change of clothes. The school strongly encourages the parents to be involved in deciding proper dress for their children.

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EIGHT GRADE CLASS TRIP

Each year the eighth graders have a class trip prior to graduation. Money to help pay for this outing is generally raised by various money-raising activities sponsored by parents of eighth grade students. The eighth grade parents will meet at the end of the 7th grade year or the beginning of the 8th grade school year to determine the fund raising activities for the year. A kingdom cause gift is set apart first of all to demonstrate that we are giving from our "first fruits." Another of the goals the eighth graders strive for is to give a gift to the school at graduation.

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ELIGIBILITY- SPORTS

Students who participate  in an athletic program must maintain a C- in their school work and must display a Christian attitude, good sportsmanship, and good citizenship. Their daily work must also be completed to the satisfaction of the teaching staff or the student will not be able to participate in that week's game. All students who have a missing book report, term paper, or science project are automatically ineligible. Students who are not eligible the week from Monday to Friday will miss the next game provided they have been given one day's notice. The end of a quarter does not mean a clean slate to start the next quarter. All the subjects are not averaged together but the cumulative average of each subject is counted separately. If the quarter grade is below a C-, they are ineligible for two weeks. Then the student’s grade will be reevaluated for any further ineligibility. Those who are not allowed to participate have supervised study hall and then ride the bus home.

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DETENTION POLICY(5-8)

When a student becomes negligent in his/her task, a teacher will use a sequential step system leading to a detention. All of the following pertain to a time frame of one week per teacher. At the beginning of a new week the policy starts over. The steps for delinquent work are as follows:

  1. First Time - loss of recess for 10 minutes. If a student fails to report, 5 minutes is added to the time. No lunch will be allowed to be eaten when detention begins.
  2. Second Time - loss of 20 minutes during noon recess during which time the student may be counseled by the principal and a parent notified.
  3. Third Time - detention after school until 4:00 P.M.; served on the earliest day possible (coordinated with the parents).

Note: The above steps pertain to assignments which are not complete or are not brought to class. For being unprepared for class (not having necessary materials, assignment booklet, etc.), the penalty is loss of recess for 10 minutes the first time and 20 minutes for each successive time for that week per teacher.

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FINANCE

  • A. All families are expected to pay the tuition rate as established at the annual society meeting. If a family feels that the tuition rate would create a financial burden, there may be financial assistance available. Application must be made through the Finance Committee to receive consideration.
  • B. Tuition covers approximately 65% of the full cost of education. Parents are encouraged and solicited to contribute over and above tuition costs to make up the 35% difference in the budget.
  • C. The Board conducts projects during the year to raise money to help defray the cost of education. These projects include the Fall Drive, Cattle Sale and the Spring Festival.
  1. In the fall of the year all society members are contacted and encouraged to make a contribution to the school. The proceeds from this Fall Drive are used for the general operation of the school.
  2. There is an annual Cattle Sale in February to raise money for the general fund.
  3. The annual Spring Festival is a project which is carried out at Hanford Christian School. There are food, games, and a silent and live auction of donated items, the profits of which go to the general fund.
  4. The Mothers' Club supports the school by buying materials or doing projects with money raised by their own fund raisers. Much of our audio-visual equipment, library books, and refurbishing have been provided by the Mothers' Club.
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FINE ARTS FESTIVAL

  • A. Each spring, students in grades 5 8 have the opportunity to use their talents in the areas of vocal and instrumental music, speech, art, and creative writing.
  • B. Grades 5 and 6 participate in the categories of speech, poetry and biblical memorization, instrumental, vocal, and small group participation. Grades 7 and 8, in addition, may participate in memorized oratory, dramatic oratory, and original oratory or poetry.
  • C. The Fine Arts Festival includes Christian schools from Alameda, Ripon, San Jose, Walnut Creek and Visalia. The responsibility of being the host school is rotated.
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FIRE DRILLS

Monthly fire drills are scheduled during the school year. All students are expected to exhibit strict obedience during drills. Students are expected to use exits as directed. They must walk briskly in single file with no talking.

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HCS EMPLOYEE AND STUDENT DIGNITY POLICY

Hanford Christian School intends to provide its employees and students an environment that is free of offensive kinds of behavior. Conduct, whether intentional or unintentional, that subjects another person to unwanted attention, comments or actions because of race, national origin, age, sex, physical characteristic or disability, robs the person of dignity, and is not permitted.

Hanford Christian School does not condone or allow harassment of others, whether engaged in by employees, supervisors, students, or other persons who may be present in our facilities.

Any person who believes he or she has been subjected to harassment should report it immediately to an appropriate superior. Students may report to a teacher or administrator. Employees may report to the administrator or to the board president if the administrator is involved. Each report will be given serious consideration and investigated thoroughly. Appropriate action will be taken to eliminate such harassment. All reports of harassment and subsequent investigations will be handled discreetly to avoid embarrassment of the person making the report.

Any person who is determined to have violated this policy will be subject to corrective action and discipline, including the possibility of termination (for employees) or expulsion (for students).

Forms of sexual harassment prohibited by this policy are defined as follows:

  1. Making submission to unwelcome sexual advances, submission to requests for sexual favors, or submission to other verbal or physical conduct of sexual nature, a condition of any employee’s continued employment or any student’s status or progress.
  2. Making submission to or rejection of, such conduct the basis for employment or educational decisions affecting any person.
  3. Creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational environment.
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HOMEWORK

  • A. It is the policy of Hanford Christian School not to have excessive amounts of homework at the lower grade levels. However, there are students on occasion who need to do extra work because of certain academic difficulties.
  • B. At the upper grade levels, 5 8, homework can be expected on a more regular basis, although even at these levels it is hoped that it will not become burdensome for the child. Parents are asked to cooperate with the teachers and the child in attempting to complete the work that has been assigned. If there are some difficulties which arise in the area of homework, the parents are encouraged to contact the teacher. (For assignments and music that are lost and require a new copy to be made, students will be charged $0.25 per copy and be required to stay in at recess to complete the work. An assignment will be considered lost if it is not handed in after the student has had one night to look for it.)
  • C. The policy which applies to unfinished work or late papers is as follows:

    If an assignment is due on a specific day and is late, it will automatically be marked down to a "C", the third day it is late, it becomes an "F". All assigned work must be turned in for the student to avoid receiving an incomplete on his/her report card. (Example: The assignment due Tuesday is not finished, so it is an automatic "C". By Thursday the grade is an "F" but the assignment still must be completed and turned into the teacher.)

  • D. The policy for 2nd through 4th grade for late work is as follows:
    1. The first two times the student has late work in a week, he/she will be required to stay in at recess to complete the work.
    2. If the student exceeds two "lates" in a week, the parents will be notified.
    3. If there are more than two phone calls in a month, parents will be asked to come in after school to assist the child in completing late work. Incomplete work could effect a student’s grade.
  • E. The policy for 2nd through 4th grade for lost papers is as follows:
    1. If a student comes to school without an assignment, he/she will stay in at recess for five minutes per assignment. Parents will receive a note listing missing assignments.
    2. For assignments that are lost and require a new copy to be made, students will be charged $0.25 per copy and be required to stay in at recess to complete the work. An assignment will be considered lost if it is not handed in after the student has had one night to look for it.
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LIBRARY

Mothers volunteer to help once a week with the centralized library. Students are responsible for the proper care and prompt return of all books they check out. Students will be permitted to check out two books which may be renewed for one week. Fines of $.25 per week per book will be charged for overdue books. Books which are damaged or lost must be replaced by the student.

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LOCKERS

  1. Students in grades 6 through 8 are totally responsible for the care, upkeep, and cleanliness of their lockers.
  2. Any damage caused by a student will be charged to the student at the cost of repair or replacement.
  3. Students are also responsible to keep their lockers locked, remember their combinations, and pay for anything lost from unlocked lockers.
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MEDICAL INFORMATION

In the event your child becomes sick at school, the school will call the parents to inform them of the illness. If the parents cannot be reached, the school will call the people you have listed on the Emergency Form. No medicine will be dispensed at school without written permission from the parent. (This includes non-aspirin pain reliever). If a child is on a doctor’s prescription medication and this medication needs to be dispensed at school, the medication needs to be brought to the office for safekeeping and dispensing.

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MONEY

Excessive amounts of money should not be taken to school. Students may request that money be kept in the office for safe keeping during school hours. The school is not responsible for lost money or articles.

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MOTHERS' CLUB

The Mothers' Club is an organization under the jurisdiction of the Board of Hanford Christian School Society. The purpose of the organization is twofold: to give financial aid to the school and to provide closer cooperation between the home and school by staying informed of educational issues. Mothers' Club meets once a month. All mothers are considered members of Mothers' Club regardless of meeting attendance and expected to assist in the fund raising projects that are undertaken during the year.

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MUSIC

  • A. Band is available to students in grades 5 - 8. We have some instruments that can be borrowed for the year. If the situation arises, in which more children ask to borrow an instrument than we own, the determination will be by lot. This will be done after the second band period of the year. Any child that uses our instruments will have to pay a $100.00 refundable deposit (depending on the condition in which the instrument was returned).
  • B. Choir is required for students in grades 5 - 8.
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PARENT PARKING

Parents may park anywhere on a first come first serve basis where space is available except in front of bus doors, near the mail box and the south side of Flint Avenue.

All students not riding the bus will be picked up at the east gate entering into the parking lot.

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PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent Teacher conferences are held after the first marking period in November. They are arranged by the office. Parents are encouraged to make arrangements with the teacher any time they feel a conference is desirable. Parent teacher conferences are valuable in three areas: reporting, gaining information, and improving home school rapport.

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PHILOSOPHY FOR GRADING SYSTEM

  • A = 100-99
  • A- = 98-95
  • B+ = 94-92
  • B = 91-89
  • B- = 88-86
  • C+ = 85-83
  • C = 82-80
  • C- = 79-77
  • D+ = 76-74
  • D = 73-71
  • D- = 70-68
  • F = 67 and below.

    • A catechism used to teach children the truths of Scripture begins with the question, "What is man's primary purpose?" The answer reflects what is taught in I Cor. 10:31 "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." The catechism answer expands on this biblical truth with, "Man's primary purpose is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever." This is a most difficult principle to teach in an age where there is a great deal of focus on promoting and glorifying one’s self. In both Romans 12:3 and Philippians 2:3 we are taught to be careful as to how we think about ourselves in comparison to others. Thinking highly of ourselves, the Bible teaches, leads to pride which is warned against again and again in Proverbs and throughout Scripture. (Proverbs 8:13; 13:10; 16:18; 25:27b; 27:2) It is difficult to teach the concept that in all our living we are to find joy in bringing glory to God and not ourselves.

    The grading system used by Hanford Christian attempts to help our students understand that to glorify God in one's school life is to do one's very best using the varied gifts that God has given each child (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). The Bible says that God distributes His gifts to each one individually as He wills. And in the parables dealing with the giving of talents found in Matthew 25:14-30 and in Luke 19:12-27, the principle is taught that God gives each of us, including our students, differing responsibilities and abilities. The recognition each receives is also different. The servant who is able to increase his "mina" by another ten is given ten cities to rule over.

    This school believes its grading system motivates our students to strive for excellence. In an elementary school, excellence includes mastery of the basics for the different academic subject areas.

    In our school we have many highly gifted students enrolled. We have found that most of our students, consistent with our sinful human nature, will not work any harder than they believe is necessary. If a child receives a straight “A” for less than full mastery, he will seldom work harder to achieve mastery. We are aware that many schools consider 95-100 as "A" grade level work. However, would we be satisfied if our pharmacist was content to be accurate in filling our prescriptions 95% of the time? Would we be concerned if hospitals correctly matched wrist name bands and new born babies 95% of the time? We believe our students need to be taught to strive to be correct 100% of the time. At the same time we recognize that we have students who work very hard and yet are not able to achieve A's or B's. However, we believe it a mistake to give a child the false sense that he deserves an A or a B because of his hard work even though his mastery of the subject area is limited.

    We deliberately do not use a "bell curve" grading system. "Bell curve" grading only compares one student to the others in the group and does not reflect a level of mastery. Related to this, we need to remember what God teaches us in Colossians 3:22-25. We are not working to compare ourselves to others or to first of all please men. Our work is to be done "as working for the Lord."

    Our children should never be given the impression that the grade they receive is a reflection of their worth. A grade is merely the level of their mastery of the subject matter. A teacher's notes on daily papers and report cards are where a teacher will try to give the child and the parent an evaluation of the child's character development. Teachers and parents need to be careful not to engage in comparing children by their grades.

    In an issue of Education Week, it was reported that almost two-thirds of children in urban public schools in America are failing to reach minimal standards in reading, math, and science. In that picture, California students rate at the bottom in both the areas of math and science. We believe the lowered grade standards of recent years have contributed to the decline of mastery in these important subject areas.

    Grades are certainly important; however, there are many other wonderful things happening at Hanford Christian that are not graded but are important to the character development of our students. Every student participates in the sports program where the emphasis is on good sportsmanship. Any child in grades five through eight can enroll in the band program. Every child is included in the service projects of the school.

    In society, there has been a strong emphasis on the importance of building self-esteem, of making certain students feel good about themselves. We have observed again and again that when our students do their best and use the gifts God has given them to be of service to others, they not only are glorifying God, but they are also experiencing the deep joy which results in their feeling good about life.

    "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." (I Peter 5:5) "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6).

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    PHYSICAL EDUCATION

    All students in grades 5 8 are required to take physical education unless excused by a doctor, parent, or teacher. Proper attire for P.E. is required. P.E. clothes can be purchased at the school from Mothers' Club. It is helpful to mark each article of clothing with the student's name. P.E. clothes are to be kept neatly in place when not in use. They are to be taken home every Friday for washing.

    Competition in sports is a part of the P.E. curriculum. Students lead busy lives, and so certain guidelines should govern when games are scheduled.

    The following guidelines to be followed for scheduling of games (which will be followed as closely as possible):

    1. 5 - 6 POLICY
      • a. No more than two games will be scheduled per sport.
      • b. If possible, games will be scheduled during the regularly scheduled P.E. period.
    2. 7 - 8 POLICY
      • a. No more than two after-school activities per week will be scheduled, not counting Saturday tournaments.
      • b. No more than one activity will be scheduled per week on a day when there will be school the next day.
      • c. No after-school activities will be scheduled when a school activity for parents is planned for that night.
      • d. No after-school activities will be scheduled on traditional church nights, such as Monday and Wednesday.
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    PICKING UP STUDENTS

    All students not riding the bus will be picked up at the east gate entering into the parking lot.

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    RETENTION

    1. The question as to whether or not a child should be retained is a very serious one. Most teachers feel the burden of such a decision and appreciate all the help and support they can get.
    2. The parents will be made aware that the child is having difficulties. This should be done by personal contact, not by phone or a letter (you would not necessarily have to discuss retention at this time).
    3. Throughout the year the teacher should be keeping a written record of the child's behavior, development, and performance in any other area that would support or deny these suspicions.
    4. The teacher should, throughout the year, remain in close contact with parents and principal, keeping them informed of the child's behavior and development.
    5. Once the teacher has concluded that there are some strong indications that a student should be retained, he shall submit to the principal, in writing, a retention form listing his observations and conclusions. Also to be included, in writing, is any other information or test results that may be helpful in deciding the matter. The deadline date by which these shall be submitted is May 1. (Exceptions could be made in special cases). This report will be made a part of the child’s cumulative record, and the parents will receive a copy.
    6. In the event of disagreements, the parents will then meet with the teacher, principal, and an Education Committee member to discuss the matter.
    7. If the parents cannot come to an agreement with the teacher, principal, and an Education Committee member, then the decision will be made by the Board.
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    RECESS AND BREAKS

    Students will remain on the school grounds at all times. Care is to be taken that other classes in session are not disturbed. The play areas are to be kept free of litter. Waste baskets are provided outside of the classrooms for trash. The physical appearance of the grounds reflects on the students in attendance.

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    REPORT CARDS

    Report cards will be distributed by the homeroom teacher on the Wednesday following the close of the marking period. Cards should be signed by a parent and returned within one week of issuance. A fee will be charged for lost report cards. Progress reports for 5th-8th grades are sent home in the middle of each quarter to those parents where the teacher determines there is information to be shared.

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    SCHOOL LUNCHES AND MILK

    The school does not have a hot lunch program. Students supply their own lunches. Milk is available at an annual fee. On Wednesday hot lunch is provided by the Mothers' Club for fund raising purposes.

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    SCHOOL SOCIETY MEETINGS

    • A. A school society meeting is held each spring. The budget is adopted and school board members of supporting churches are elected. Membership is open to those individuals who have children attending HCS and/or are members of a supporting church.
    • B. Special meetings of the society can be called, if issues of importance need to be decided between the annual meetings.
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    SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS

    • A. In case of an official disaster warning (Civil Defense) the children will be sent home as soon as possible.
    • B. In case school is canceled or is delayed in starting because of weather (fog) conditions, announcements will be made over channel 18 TV and KMJ Radio, or the Hanford Christian School Website starting at 6:00 a.m.
    • Plan A - Two Hour Delay -School starts at 10:30, buses running.
    • Plan B - Three Hour Delay -School starts at 11:30, buses running.
    • Plan C - Three Hour Delay - School starts at 11:30, no buses in the morning, parents bring in students, buses run in the afternoon.
    • Plan D- School is canceled.

    If a foggy day schedule is called, arrival for a 2 hour delay is 10:15, and for a 3 hour delay 11:15.

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    STAFFINGS

    When a student's performance indicates there is a serious problem, (whether academic, behavioral, or spiritual,) HCS employs a process of "staffing." Staffing involves meetings between parents, teachers, principal, and sometimes the student. This staffing process has shown to be effective in solving problems from a Biblical perspective. If a problem develops, the teacher, administrator, or parent should request that the staffing process begin.

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    TARDINESS

    Students are expected to be in their seats when the tardy bell rings. If a students receives 5 tardies in a quarter, he or she will get detention, and a phone call will be made to the parents. For every tardy after 5 there will be detention.

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    TELEPHONE

    1. The telephones in the school are maintained for office use, not student convenience. Only in special cases may a student request permission to use the phone. If it is not a local call, the call must be placed collect. Only the phone in the office is to be used if permission is granted.
    2. A signed pass from the homeroom teacher must be obtained before permission to use the phone will be granted. Only the student using the phone will be allowed in the office.
    3. The use of cell phones is not permitted at school.
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    TEXTBOOKS AND SCHOOL EQUIPMENT

    1. Textbooks are supplied at no charge. They are distributed by the classroom teacher and must be returned at the end of the year. It is the duty of the student to keep his/her books in good condition. Lost or damaged books must be paid for by the student. If books are in need of repair, the homeroom teacher should be notified so repairs can be made before damage becomes irreparable.
    2. Students will be expected to pay for repair of school property and equipment, if damage was deliberately caused by the student. Students must provide for their own materials over and above the basics provided by the school.
    3. Personal property should be labeled.
    4. All students in grades 4 8 are given an assignment notebook to be used all year. If it is lost, the student will be responsible to pay for a replacement.
    5. A "Lost and Found" department is handled through the office. Unclaimed items are given to charity.
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    USE AND CARE OF BOOKS

    1. All books are required to have a school stamp.
    2. If book covers are available, students should use them.
    3. At school books are to be kept only in lockers, desks, or other designated places.
    4. All books will be evaluated by the teacher when school starts, and a record kept of their condition. Books will be reevaluated at the end of the school year with damage recorded and fines assessed. Missing books require the full cost of replacement, as do damaged books that cannot be used again.
    5. At no time should students throw, tear, or otherwise abuse their own or someone else's books. Books should be kept out of the aisles and off the cement.
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