Welcome!
Cook Inlet Academy is a family oriented school. We are committed to the health and well being of your family. Our staff, faculty, and board are faithful in holding families up in prayer. We believe this to be a vital part of effective education here at Cook Inlet Academy.
For over 30 years, Cook Inlet Academy has been meeting the need for Christ-centered, Kingdom education here on the Kenai Peninsula. In a Christ-centered education, students encounter God’s redemptive love for them and witness to the power of this encounter in changed lives. Our board, faculty and staff are committed to this very special and humble calling. It is our desire to join your family in experiencing this kind of education for eternity.
As you carefully read through the following pages, you will learn a great deal about our school. Many of your initial questions and concerns will be answered here. We are happy to answer any additional questions you might have. Your visits are always welcome at Cook Inlet Academy.
In His grip,
Mary Rowley
Principal/Administrator
Cook Inlet Academy
INTRODUCTION
A Brief History
Founded by committed peninsula families in 1972, Cook Inlet Academy first opened its doors for classes in the fall of 1973 with one teacher and 36 students in five grades. The school met that year in the basement of a church building just outside of Soldotna.
As the years went by, Cook Inlet grew to accommodate Kindergarten through 12th grade and added faculty and staff to meet the growing demands of the school. By the late 1970s, Cook Inlet Academy was meeting in four church buildings in Soldotna and Kenai and enrollment had passed the 100 mark.
In 1984, the school built a seven-classroom facility on Kalifornsky Beach Road where it is now permanently located. Since then, enrollment has grown to almost 250 students, including preschool. Additions to the original facility were made in the form of a new gymnasium, commons area and additional classrooms. Currently, we are planning more additions in the form of a science lab, commons area and still more classrooms; God is continuing to lead the school campus into the future with these and other projects.
School Background
Cook Inlet Academy (CIA) is a private Christian school recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c(3) non-profit corporation. The school is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges. CIA is recognized by the Alaska Department of Education and meets all federal and state academic requirements. Cook Inlet Academy is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International, the largest association of its kind in the world. Cook Inlet Academy does not discriminate in its admission policy on the basis of a student’s sex, race, or national origin.
Cook Inlet Academy is operated through a self-perpetuating school board consisting of up to twelve members, a majority of whom are parents of currently enrolled students. The school operates independently of any church or other parent organization, and has educated students from over 30 church denominations and from many families who do not attend church. Because of the school’s independence, responsibility of the school ultimately rests with the school board. All decisions of the board are final and appeal is only possible back to the board.
Our full time teachers are all fully certified and have many decades of teaching experience between them. Part time teachers are also added to the staff to help round out the offerings of the school. We consider the teaching staff our greatest resource and are thankful that they are letting God use them to show students His love and life-changing power.
The school’s statement of faith, mission, and purpose statement, and philosophy of education are foundational to this institution and all board members, faculty, and staff personally subscribe to these statements. Copies of the mission and purpose statement, statement of faith and philosophy of education are an integral component of this manual and can be found on page 5.
As a participating parent, you may or may not find yourself in complete agreement with these statements. However, it is important that you understand the orientation of our curriculum and methodology because by enrolling here, we assume you are willing to have these principles operate in the school life of your child.
We welcome the opportunity to serve you and your family by being an important element in the training of your child, and we depend on your participation and feedback. Rather than assuming complete responsibility for the education of your children, we desire to become partners with you in this demanding task.
SCHOOL PERSONNEL
School Board
Chuck Kopp, President
Mark Cialek, Vice President
Dianna Taplin, Secretary
J.R. Dailey, Treasurer
Dan Michel
Karen McGahan
Karrie Yarnes
Administration
Mary Rowley – Principal
Gary Leiter – Vice Principal
Office & Support Staff
Lisa Linegar – Bookkeeper
Jill Leiter – Receptionist/Secretary/Guidance Counselor
Cheryl Beeson – Librarian
Elementary Teachers
Becky Dwinnell – Preschool
Annette Smith – Kindergarten
Patti Ireland - First Grade
Angie Lyons – Second Grade
Kerri Nelson – Third Grade
Deborah Bird– Fourth/ Fifth Grade
Don Shields- Fifth/Sixth Grade
Secondary Teachers
MISSION STATEMENT
Cook Inlet Academy joins with parents in leading children to know the fullness of God's love and to experience the life change that only God can produce.
THE COOK INLET ACADEMY STATEMENT OF FAITH
The Word of God, the Holy Bible, is the only written authority for the faith and practice of this institution. The statement that follows is our interpretation of fundamental biblical principles.
1. We believe the Bible to be the only inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God (II Timothy 3:16).
2. We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (I John 5:4-6).
3. We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, His sinless life, His miracles, His vicarious and atoning death, His bodily resurrection, His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and His personal return in power and glory (I Corinthians 15:3; I Peter 2:21-24).
4. We believe that for salvation of lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential (Romans 3:21-30; Galatians 4:4-7; John 3:16).
5. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (Galatians 5:22-25).
6. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; the saved to the resurrection of life, and the lost to the resurrection of damnation (John 5:24, 28-29).
7. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (John 17:21-23).
Non-denominational position statement
Our statement of faith is fundamental to orthodox Christianity down through the centuries and we teach and uphold these doctrines without apology. We want to inform new families, and remind our current school family and staff, that our school does not promote denominational distinctives. These areas are left to the families and their churches. The school desires to emphasize our shared beliefs and our unity in Christ and avoid those controversies that tend to bring dissension.
PHILOSOPHY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
An educational system is an extension of a philosophy of life. The Christian’s philosophy of education centers in Jesus Christ. All the truth of religion, history, language, science, mathematics, and fine & practical arts are an expression of the One who said, “I am the Truth” (John 14:6). Hence all true education is a pursuit of Him who created all things (Ephesians 3:9, Colossians 1:16) and who holds the entire creation (Colossians 1:17) and the destiny of man (Romans 2:16) in His hands.
God’s Word, the Bible, is the central text for Christian education. It brings salvation (John 5:24), enlightens the mind (Psalm 119:130), and reveals Jesus Christ, whom to know is life eternal. The Bible states that a man’s actions are an extension of his thoughts; a man is what he thinks (Proverbs 23:7). Therefore, every effort must be made to fill his mind with Truth so that his decisions and actions can result in God’s blessing.
Reality is not necessarily what man determines. Reality is the viewing of all of life from God’s perspective (Isaiah 55:7-9). All knowledge and wisdom derive from what God has revealed of Himself in His creation, in His word, and in Jesus Christ His Son.
Only through salvation offered by Jesus Christ can man be restored and experience a personal relationship with God. The Holy Spirit is given to indwell every believer, enabling him to understand the Truth and grow into the full maturity of Christ (John 16:13-15).
Parents are God’s means of creating and nurturing children. They are the key in shaping their child’s future. The awesome responsibility of training a child cannot be yielded to another. A Christian school can only join with the home to supplement and enrich the training process, which is designed to present to God a young life prepared for royal service in His eternal kingdom.
A teacher is one who communicates Truth. So first, he must personally know the Truth, so that he can honestly and persuasively represent the Truth to his students. Students emulate those who teach them (Luke 6:40), and Christ’s greatest condemnation lay with those who would lead a child astray (Mark 9:42).
School Verse
Cook Inlet Academy’s school verse is Colossians 2:3 - “In Christ Jesus lie hidden all treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” At Cook Inlet Academy, we are educating for eternity.
STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
Basic to an accurate understanding of our educational objectives at Cook Inlet Academy is our philosophy that our primary objective as educators is to facilitate life change, as well as transfer to each student a thorough knowledge of the fullness of God's love which He brings to our school family. We maintain that such life change is only brought about through the empowering activity of the Holy Spirit, and we join with parents in seeking to lead students to that end.
With this understanding, we offer the following educational objectives:
To lead students into awareness that God is their reason for living.
To guide every student to the understanding that each is in need of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, and that such a relationship will be evidenced by a commitment and obedience to the teachings of Christ.
To ground students in the living and Written Word of Truth, and to help them understand and apply the principles of the Word to their daily lives.
To integrate a well-rounded academic curriculum with the Truth of God's Word; believing that "in Christ Jesus lie all treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Col. 2:3).
To instill within students an increasing desire to reach out to their world with the message of life and hope that comes through a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus.
To exist as an extension of the home, uniting with parents in meeting the individual educational needs of their children, this with the understanding that the parent is ultimately responsible for the education of the child.
To encourage students to develop their God-given gifts and abilities in such areas as music, art, drama, etc.; believing that God is the source of all beauty and creativity in the heart of man, and that when we use these gifts to glorify the Father, His pleasure is made manifest within us.
Academic Goals
1. To develop the student's potential academic abilities by promoting high academic standards
2. To develop in each student a mastery of language, math and reading skills
3. To develop in each student proper study and research skills
4. To develop independent critical thinking and logical reasoning skills
5. To promote a God-centered worldview and develop responsible citizenship
6. To encourage the adoption of God's Word as the basis of moral and value judgments
7. To foster a deep appreciation of the classical arts and our cultural heritage
8. To help students discover and develop their interests and God-given talents
9. To teach students the value of both individual and team efforts
Personal & Physical Goals
1. To help each student to see themselves as a special creation of God, dearly loved, and in turn capable of responding to and sharing that love
2. To teach that our bodies are temples of God's Spirit requiring discipline and self-control
3. To teach the proper stewardship of time and possessions
4. To teach the value of wholesome relationships including the value of a Christian marriage and home
5. To teach the value of personal convictions and the process of Christian character development
CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT
From time to time there will be a need for student counseling and/or discipline. To promote a healthy atmosphere for this ministry, parents and students must understand there are ethical and legal issues that need to be understood.
1. A student needs to know that what is shared in confidence will be held in confidence.
2. Students and families need to know that personal issues will be protected from others.
EXCEPTION TO THE CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT
Our school is required to direct to proper authorities the following issues:
1. Suspicion of physical or sexual abuse
2. Serious evidences of suicidal tendencies
3. Serious evidences of possible harm to others
4. Instances where local, state or federal laws have been broken
STUDENT RECORDS
Student records are maintained for the benefit of the student and are used for instruction, career development, guidance and educational placement.
Records include:
1. All academic and testing records including: transcripts of grades (9-12) and quarterly and annual report cards.
2. Health records
3. Psychological and Behavior records to include any evaluations which have been included with the records of incoming students. Formal administrative actions will also be on record.
4. International students will also have records of their legal documents supporting their status in America.
Release of Records
1. All records will be available for inspection by the students or their parents/guardians in the presence of a school official.
2. Student records will only be forwarded to a receiving school upon written request of that school.
3. The Administration may withhold report cards, diplomas, or other records if fees remain unpaid or student damaged property remains unreplaced. Enrollment in Cook Inlet Academy assumes the good faith of parents to pay all fees when due.
4. In the case of #3 above, only immunization records will be forwarded to a receiving school.
Permanent File
Records will be kept indefinitely of student's name, birth date, subjects taken and grades, attendance and date of graduation or withdrawal.
STUDENT ATTENDANCE
Alaska State law requires children of school age to be in attendance at school. Parents are legally responsible to insure that their children are in regular attendance. Here are some important attendance policies that must be followed in order to receive the greatest benefit from Cook Inlet Academy.
Be sure your child is dropped off and picked up on time. School begins at 8:30 a.m. and dismisses at 2:55 p.m.(10 minutes earlier for elementary students) Elementary students who wander into school late often miss or disrupt the Bible Class, the most important lesson of the day which is usually scheduled for first hour. This is the one hour of the day that has the most life-changing potential, and to miss it is to miss the most important issue that Cook Inlet Academy has to offer. For this reason, frequent tardiness is deemed reason for disciplinary action. All students late to school must check in at the office for a tardy slip. Because we want children to be good stewards of their time, secondary students who are frequently tardy may also face disciplinary action. This injunction includes being on-time for every class every period of the school day.
Students who are not picked up on time are more prone to get into trouble or are in the way as the school empties out. Because we have a small facility, there is no place for a child to conveniently wait inside for a ride. Please do not assume that there is someone available to supervise your child outside school hours - make arrangements for someone else to drop off or pick up your child if you are going to be early or late.
Ensure regular attendance. Attempt to arrange doctor and dental appointments so as not to interfere with classroom time. Early dismissal may mean missed assignments and creates havoc with the school’s end-of-the-day cleanup program.
Make sure your student never misses a day at school without a good reason. It creates an extra burden for the student to make up past assignments and try to catch up with what the rest of the class has learned. If your child is absent, a signed and dated excuse from home must be sent with the returning student to consider that absence excused. Assignments missed must be made up and students will be responsible for asking for the missed assignments. An absence is considered excused for: illness, prearranged activities or family emergencies such as death of a family member. Family vacations fall under prearranged activities and are considered excused absences as long as the school is notified beforehand of such. Without a note stating the above reasons, the absence will be considered unexcused. A pattern of unexcused absences will make the student subject to disciplinary review and possible action.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES AND DRILLS
Fire Drills
•The school will hold monthly fire drills.
•Proper exiting procedure will be explained to and followed by each student
•Attendance will be taken outside of school by each teacher & report for any absence
•Students must remain quietly outside until the "all clear" has been given
Earthquakes
•In the event of an earthquake students will duck for cover and hold position
•Students must be clear of windows, bookcases and falling debris
•Students must remain quiet so that they can receive further instructions
Power Failure
•In the event of a power failure students are to remain quiet until given instructions by a staff member.
School Closure
If school will be closed before the beginning of classes, this information will be broadcast over KSRM Radio (920 AM). If there is an emergency that requires school to be closed after school has started, you will be contacted by phone. If there is an incident that requires the school to be evacuated, the Food Bank is our emergency meeting location and pick-up point.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
1. Parents need to submit a notice to the school of a student's withdrawal.
2. Students will be given a form to be presented to each teacher and librarian to confirm that school property has been returned.
3. Records will be withheld if proper withdrawal has not been completed
TUITION AND FEES
There are two levels of involvement in the school (associate and member) and there is a separate tuition schedule for each level.
Associate
An associate family enrolls its children in the school but either does not wish to or cannot make the commitment of personal involvement required of members. Associate families pay a higher tuition than do members.
Member
A family participating on the membership level will be highly involved in the school program by volunteering a specified number of hours. Member families will pay a lower tuition rate than associate families.
Annual membership fee is $50 and is non-refundable. If membership duties are not fulfilled by the tuition deadline each month, associate rates will be paid for that month. The service of board members and contracted staff fulfills their requirements for membership status.
Contact the office for information on volunteer duties. Some of these include recess duty, reading & math tutoring, room Mom, field trips, PTF meetings, school committees, Basketball-timer, scorekeeper, ticket sales, etc...
Tuition Scale
Tuition rates are determined annually by the school board. Tuition for the 2007-2008 school year is as follows:
AssociateMember
Preschooltwo-day$254/mo$229/mo
Kindergarten $3160/yr$2820/yr
Associate Member
Elementary1 student $4970/yr$4350/yr
2 students $7910/yr$7110/yr
3 students $9760/yr$8880/yr
Students in 7th-12th add $5470/yr $4790/yr
Matriculation Fee
This fee pays for student insurance, books, educational supplies, etc. This fee is the same for Associate and Member families.
Registration Fee
This is for first-time students only: $25
- NOTE: ALL FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE -
As a courtesy, tuition is divided into 10 monthly payments (starting in August) for all families whose students begin on the first day of school. Families are expected to pay the entire tuition amount unless extenuating circumstances arise. Families whose students enroll after August will pay the yearly tuition rate divided by 9.
Please note: Maximum tuition for any family will in no case exceed the price of three secondary students. This does not include Preschool or Kindergarten students. The price of tuition changes every year and is made by the school board, which considers the federal annual cost of living increase (or decrease) for Alaska, when setting the annual tuition amount.
Tuition Payment
Because the efficient operation of the school depends on timely payment of all tuition and matriculation fees it is imperative that you as a family make these payments on time. The annual tuition is divided into 10 monthly payments regardless of the number of school days in that particular month. (Preschool tuition may be prorated for August.) Tuition is due on the first of the month for the 10 months of the school year (August through May). Tuition not paid by the 10th of the month will be assessed a $10 late fee, and after the 20th there will be a $25 late fee.
If a tuition payment is more than a month late, the child will not be allowed to attend classes until the situation is rectified or special arrangements have been made with the school. If this happens more than two times during a school year, that family will appear at a hearing before the school board to determine their future status with the school.
Activity Fees
Many teachable moments occur outside the classroom setting. Field trips, sporting events, class parties and other special events are part of the fun of being a child and are part of going to school. To pay for the expenses of these outings, the school requires an activity fee from each student’s family. Like matriculation, there is no discount for families who have more than one child enrolled at Cook Inlet Academy. For the school year, the annual fee is due by January 1st. The fee amount for 2007-2008 is:
Pre-school – 6th Grade$125
Where the Money Goes
Tuition payments cover basic school operating costs and teacher salaries. Although teachers and staff are on a salary schedule, they do not receive full pay if tuition income has not been adequate. This is the school’s way of ensuring that our budget is always in the black. Withholding of staff salaries can occur when many family accounts are delinquent or when enrollment is down.
Matriculation fees fund the purchase of texts, workbooks, and other curriculum-related materials as well as various one-time purchases, such as school equipment, student insurance and school memberships in various organizations. The registration fee helps cover the cost of completing new student paperwork.
The activity fee, which includes all sports programs and other extra-curricular activities, is funded separately by the annual Work-a-thon (conducted by high school and junior high students), the Bike-a-thon and Jog-a-thon (conducted by elementary students). Students are encouraged to put a wholehearted effort into obtaining sponsorship to make these events successful so that there will not be a continual demand for funding.
Donations are an important part in developing our school. We have no other program to expand our facility to meet the ever growing need other than asking God to lay this ministry on the hearts of people who have a vision for training our youth in the wisdom of the Lord. Cook Inlet Academy tries to be very efficient in its operation. We try to use our money wisely, and God miraculously provides for the school’s expenses year after year. We welcome and cherish your participation in our school’s future growth.
GRADES AND REPORT CARDS
Besides grading the regular academic subjects, all Cook Inlet Academy students also receive grades in behavior and attitude. These grades are very important because they are a reflection of what is going on the in the heart of the student, where life change happens – ‘By their fruits you shall know them” (Matt. 7:20) was the council of our Lord. In addition, when a student has good behavior and attitude grades, he or she will make rapid progress and benefit from what the school has to offer. Conversely, when behavior and attitude are poor, little progress can be made academically and the child will not benefit from the school experience. For these reasons, it is important that each parent first be concerned with grades in these areas before trying to improve academic grades.
Guidelines for Grading Behavior & Attitude
One or more of the following principles may apply in the grading of behavior and attitude:
Behavior Grades
ASelf-disciplined, obeys rules, shows exemplary behavior. Outstanding.
B Generally responsible, does not interfere with others. Above average.
CIs an occasional problem but usually responds well to correction. Average.
DIs often a nuisance, disruptive, demanding more than his/her share of attention.
Below average and if continued will result in probationary status.
FDisregards rules, unresponsive to correction. Well below average. This behavior cannot be tolerated because it degrades the quality of the school for others. For
this reason prolonged poor behavior is cause for dismissal from school.
Attitude Grades
AEager to learn, looks for ways to help, shows genuine spiritual interest, displays Christian character, shows concern for others.
BWilling to learn, responds well to discipline and correction, is friendly and cooperative.
CDoes what is necessary, is not negative or critical of school or others, gets along
acceptably with others.
DIs reluctant to assume responsibility for self and assignments, has a tendency to complain or criticize, tends to disrespect authority, is somewhat of a negative influence and if continued will result in probationary status.
FArrogant and disrespectful, little or no spiritual interest, is a bad influence on classmates. Prolonged poor attitude is cause for dismissal from school.
Academic Grading
Cook Inlet Academy sets high standards for its students. Most students who transfer from another school may find that the work at Cook Inlet Academy is more rigorous, often much more so.
Testing results have shown that our students tend to score well above the national average on national standardized tests, often two or three years higher. Seniors who do well at Cook Inlet have scored very high on SAT and ACT college entrance exams, and many have been offered academic scholarships to numerous colleges.
Cook Inlet Academy uses a traditional curriculum involving materials from a wide variety of sources. Our goal is to provide the highest-quality educational materials available. Many of our texts come from Christian sources, and all our courses are taught from a biblical perspective. This helps students integrate their faith into their entire world view.
The grading system at Cook Inlet Academy is based on the traditional letter grade system. Below is a general guideline for grading that is often used by teachers at Cook Inlet.
GradeScore Description
A+100
A93-99 Exemplary, superior work
A- 92
B+ 91
B84-90 Above average work
B- 83
C+ 82
D+ 69
D61-68 Below average work
D- 60
F 0-59 Not passing. No credit given
I 0Incomplete. No credit given
OVERVIEW OF HOMEWORK POLICY
Elementary
There is a progression throughout the elementary grades towards more independent study. In the primary grades, guided practice is best done in the classroom with teacher supervision. In grades K-3, work not completed in school with the class will be sent home for parental follow-through. However, students will be expected to learn their Bible verse and spelling words for the week at home. Students repeatedly required to do additional homework at these grades should be carefully followed up to determine the reason.
Students in grades 4-6 will become increasingly independent; however, the school recognizes the importance of family activities in the nurturing process during these developmental years. Lessons will be designed to be completed in class with work remaining incomplete to be done at home. Normally, homework will consist of special projects such as science fairs, book reports etc. At this level also, students will be expected to learn their Bible verse and spelling words for the week at home. As stated above, students regularly needing to do a lot of homework at these grades should be carefully followed up to determine the reason.
Balance in a student’s schedule is very important in avoiding ‘burn-out’ later on. If a student finds time at home for additional activities it is recommended that music, gymnastics, swimming, boys/girls club sports etc. be used to further enrich the child’s experience.
Junior High
In preparation for high school, it is necessary to develop independent study skills. One hour of homework each night should be anticipated for the average student. Some students will need more time to keep up with assignments. Parents are asked to help children schedule their time. Weekly lesson plans help students anticipate time demands and the decision to do no homework one night may necessitate a doubling up the next evening. Many assignments are repeated weekly and students may work ahead to lessen the midweek load. Stress in this area usually centers around the procrastination of an assignment which has been given plenty of lead time but was not attempted until the “last minute”.
High school
The average high school student should plan on two hours of homework a night. This depends on the specific subjects taken and whether or not a study hall is taken in the class schedule. There is an ever widening range of abilities and personal goals by the time a student reaches high school.
Students who do not plan to go to college tend to choose a less rigorous schedule. (Parents are reminded that a student often changes his/her mind and later regrets missing the courses which are needed for college) There are, of course, courses with little or no homework such as PE, keyboarding, teacher’s aide etc.
College bound students, especially those taking advanced courses for college credit, must expect a rigorous study schedule. Three to four hours a night will not be uncommon. Here again, stress in this area usually centers on the procrastination of an assignment which has been given plenty of lead time but was not attempted until the “last minute”. Students on the college track should have an additional credit in advanced math and science, and 2 foreign language credits above the normal graduation requirements - (four additional credits overall). The best return for the tuition investment comes when students avail themselves of all the school has to offer.
CLOTHING GUIDELINES
Modesty and Neatness
As a school, we have tried to minimize rules on acceptable clothing. Since what one wears is a sign of what is happening on the inside of the person (Matt. 7:16, Rom. 12:2), we would rather see this ‘fruit’ from their lives, and work and pray to change their hearts accordingly if there is a problem. The alternative – legalistic conformity to a random, rigid standard – was severely condemned by Christ and should be avoided.
We have found, however, that letting children, especially secondary students, wear whatever they wish is usually not beneficial to themselves or their classmates. Specifically, many young ladies (unintentionally) wear clothing that are manufactured to sensually stimulate guys. Men, who are wired to be visually stimulated, will be sexually aroused when they see a women wearing tight-fitting tops, high hems, bare midriffs, low-cut blouses, exposed skin, etc. Many young ladies are unaware of their impact and affect on their male classmates and are simply trying to look cute and fashionable. Young men are not immune from the trend to be fashionable; the baggy jeans and sloppy attire popular today are the guys’ way of fitting in with their peers.
At Cook Inlet Academy, we have sought to formulate modesty and neatness guidelines that are reasonable, respectable and most importantly, biblical and honoring to our Lord Jesus Christ. Scripture does not mandate hem length or tucked-in shirts. In these areas where we have put in specific guidelines, we have done so to train up youngsters as to what is appropriate dress in certain situations so they can respect themselves and their peers. This is true during the entire school day (from walking in the door to leaving at the end of the day) as well as all school related events, including athletic practices and games.
Guidelines
Students are to dress in modest, well-maintained and clean apparel. No tank tops are allowed (shirts must have sleeves). Shirts and blouses should be loose-fitting and have a high-neckline. Skirts and shorts must reach down to the knee. Pants must be worn at the waist. Neither bare midriffs nor undergarments shall be showing at any time. Hats, hoods, and sunglasses are not allowed to be worn in the classroom except for special days that will be announced in advance. Parents are encouraged to use discretion concerning objectionable T-shirt slogans and different styles of clothing (gangster, gothic, etc.) that reflect a rebellious attitude. The school reserves the right to make judgments in all these matters.
Wednesday is Chapel Day and all students are asked to dress up on this day. All girls must wear dresses or skirts that are no shorter than the knee and should wear an appropriate blouse instead of a T-shirt. All boys must wear slacks (no denim jeans!) and a collared shirt or dress sweaters--but no sweatshirts. These chapel rules apply for the entire day; students may not change out of these clothes except for physical education classes. Elementary girls may bring tights or other pants to pull on under their dresses for recess, and elementary boys may bring jeans so that nice pants are not ruined during recess activity.
In recognition of Christ's call to modesty and humility, the school's position is that students must avoid the ‘avant-garde fads’ that are typical of any society. Hairstyles, ornaments, decorations, body piercing, and clothing which the administration considers to be distracting or startlingly unconventional will not be allowed. If in doubt, please consult with the administration before trying something that may fall into this category.
A Final Word
The goal of these guidelines is not to humiliate or embarrass any student. Rather, we want to promote and encourage neat and modest attire. We realize, however, that modesty begins at home. We are asking all families to please work with us to insist that these guidelines be followed. While it may not be an area that you as a parent place a high priority upon, it is something that we take seriously. Modesty and neatness never go out of style and reflect values – purity and holiness –that are worthy of emulating and maintaining.
STUDENT REGULATIONS
There are certain behavioral standards that the school expects all students to follow, and we have included some of these here. In addition, each teacher may have other rules that are needed for classroom management; students are expected to follow those rules as if they were included in the handbook.
Respect for school property
Property that belongs to the school and other students is expected to be treated with utmost respect. These items include books, materials, lockers, desks, bathrooms, and other parts of the building. Others will use these facilities in the future, and it is important to leave behind as good a facility as possible. Lockers will be inspected at the close of the school year. Fines will be issued for undue wear on textbooks and other school property.
Unnecessary items
MP3 players, Radios, tape recorders, magazines and other personal items from home which do not benefit the educational process should not be brought to school. These kinds of items tend to serve as distractions to both the owner and others during the school day. Cell phones are to be turned off during school hours. Cell phones being used during school hours without express permission will be taken away and returned to the parents. Students may use their cell phones after school hours as needed. Books brought from home for reading at school must be approved by the teacher.
Behavior away from school
Even away from school or attending a school event that is not part of the normal school day (sporting events, etc.), it must be remembered that all students represent the school they attend, and Cook Inlet Academy students also represent Jesus Christ to the community. For these reasons, behavior of students should always reflect the same wholesome, disciplined lifestyle which is expected at school and which brings honor to Christ.
Student vehicles
It must be understood that driving is not a right, but a privilege and responsibility which can be permanently or temporarily revoked by the school if sufficient cause is given.
Vehicles used by students for transportation to and from school may not by used for any other purpose during the day unless the school office has received written permission from home granting such use beforehand. Due to the proximity of dangerous intersections, children and other foot traffic, the speed limit of the parking lot is 5 mph. Vehicles may not be used as a place for student visiting, resting or studying.
School visitors
Permission to have visitors must be granted by the school before bringing visitors to school. Visitors to the school are required to check in at the school office at the beginning of the day. Students may not host visitors at school on a regular basis, and are responsible for the behavior of their guests while at school. For the safety of all, visitors may be asked to wear a visitor’s badge.
Time management
Students are encouraged to plan their days wisely so an unreasonable amount of schoolwork is not done at home, thus disrupting the family schedule. Students who make wise use of class time and do not wait until the last minute to complete assignments typically score very well and are not overwhelmed by their schedules. It is very hard to make up incomplete work and also try to keep up with the current class load. The best way to avoid this vicious cycle is to do work right the first time, avoiding incompletes.
Boy-Girl relationships
Romance is a wonderful part of life, but boyfriends and girlfriends, for their own personal morality and for academic focus, must conduct their relationship to meet the highest moral standards. At school and school-related functions, this means that no physical contact is allowed.
Prohibited items
No tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, knives, or firearms are permitted on the school campus. Discovery of such items will result in immediate suspension until investigation into the matter is completed. Any student who brings a firearm or destructive device to school or to any school sponsored event shall be expelled for no less than one year unless a modification is warranted. When student conduct violates State or Federal law the appropriate authorities will be called to exercise their jurisdiction.
School Lockers
Assigned lockers are to be kept clean and free from any permanent stickers. Lockers are the property of the school and are for the convenience of the student. They may be searched (without prior notice) at any time at the discretion of the administration. Any items found which are stolen or prohibited (a partial list is in the section above this) will be held by the administration and parents will be notified.
Cheating
Copying answers or plagiarizing will not be tolerated. For the first offense students will receive a failing grade in the subject for the week and a failing grade in behavior and attitude. Parents will be notified. For a second offense a student will be suspended.
DISCIPLINE
Because Cook Inlet Academy seeks to involve the parent as much as possible in the education process, school faculty are available for conferences with parents at any time during the year when questions or problems arise with their student. The school has plans and procedures for discipline because we are for your child (Rev. 3:19). The first goal of school discipline is to help the student develop a Biblical world and life view and to make choices consistent with God's Word. Our second goal is to create a climate that facilitates the maximum learning for each student. Our third goal is to help each student to learn to move from external control to self-control and Spirit-control. Regular parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for all parents at the end of the first and third quarters as a way for both parties to monitor the life and progress of your child.
It is expected that students will:
Behave appropriately and accept responsibility for their behavior
Respect others and obey those in authority including substitute teachers
Steps of classroom discipline are as follows:
1. Principal/student conference identifying offending behavior and parents notified
2. Student will be given work detention and parents notified
3. Student will be given suspension and parents notified
Without resolution the matter will be referred to the administration for appropriate action.
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
The Bible clearly indicates that corporal punishment is a means of godly discipline (Proverbs 22:15, 23:13, 29:15 are good examples) and we at Cook Inlet Academy believe that corporal punishment is a very positive disciplinary measure when done in a correct manner.
Because of this, Cook Inlet Academy occasionally uses corporal punishment in its disciplinary procedure when it is deemed appropriate. Parents are asked to sign a corporal punishment acceptance form upon enrolling their student in the school. Salaried staff members are the only persons authorized to administer corporal punishment; whenever possible, the Principal will mete out corporal punishment. Corporal punishment will be limited to no more than three swats by paddle to the bottom. This discipline will be done in private with one witness. Parents will be notified whenever corporal punishment is being considered as a discipline.
Those who do not wish to sign the form must submit an alternative plan of disciplinary action which will be reviewed by the school administration. Corporal punishment will not be administered to a student whose parents have not previously granted permission to the school to do so. Corporal punishment will not be admitted to a secondary student against that student’s will. However, in both these cases, it must be realized that not using corporal punishment forces the school administration to go to the next disciplinary step, usually suspension or expulsion. Questions about the school’s corporal discipline policy may be directed to the school administration.
PROBATION
Students are placed on academic probation by failing to complete their weekly assignments for three consecutive weeks or by receiving failing grades for three consecutive weeks. If a student is not removed from probationary status at the end of three weeks, he/she may be suspended until all incomplete work is completed.
Students are place on behavioral probation by receiving a D or F in behavior or attitude for three weeks in a row, or by extreme misbehavior at any given time, as determined by the student’s teacher and the school administration.
The continued enrollment of probationary students is brought under consideration by the school board until the situation is rectified. An extended period of probation is grounds for dismissal from the school.
To get off academic probation, a student must make up all incomplete assignments or have three consecutive weeks of complete work. To get off behavioral probation, a student must receive a grade of C or higher in both behavior and attitude for three consecutive weeks.
SUSPENSION
Students may be placed on suspension at any time for severe misbehavior, as judged by the faculty and administration. Length of suspension will usually be from one day to one week, depending on the severity of the problem. All suspensions will be accompanied by a conference with the parents of the suspended student.
Typical behaviors that would result in suspension are cheating, fighting, severe class disruption, cutting class, excessive unexcused tardiness, extreme lack of respect for staff and/or faculty, rebellion, leaving the campus without permission, stealing, lying, swearing or using obscenities, willful abuse or destruction of school property, sexual immorality, drinking, smoking, or use of drugs. This is by no means intended to be an exhaustive list. It is simply placed in this manual as a list of examples of what may cause a student to be suspended or expelled from Cook Inlet Academy.
EXPULSION
Students may be expelled from school when problems that have previously caused probation or suspension are not resolved. A student may also be expelled for any behavior that causes the school administration to believe that continued enrollment at Cook Inlet Academy will have little benefit to the student, or will cause great damage to the quality of education or to the student body.
