Welcome to

Okeechobee Christian Academy . . .

The faculty and staff of Okeechobee Christian Academy welcome you to our family. We are honored and excited that you have chosen to place your child in Christian education. It is our desire that your child will find Okeechobee Christian Academy a rewarding experience spiritually, academically, and socially. The school does not exist to replace parents, but to assist them in carrying out their God-given responsibility of training their children. In keeping with this commitment, the faculty and staff of Okeechobee Christian Academy are dedicated to teaching, training, and nurturing the students that God has brought into our lives. We share a common trait of love and devotion to the students, school, and especially God.

The following Parent-Student Handbook contains valuable information for navigating through life at Okeechobee Christian Academy. Although it is lengthy, please review it carefully as we ask all parents who wish to enroll their child to sign a document stating they’ve read and understand this handbook. We also ask that all students from 6^th through 12^th grades read and sign as well. Of course, no handbook can answer every question concerning all details so the Board reserves the final decision in all matters concerning the Academy. 

Please refer to your handbook often, as the Board, administration, faculty, and staff uses it as a measure for almost every decision. Your cooperation with following these policies will create an environment of stability and consistency for you, your child and our school ministry. This handbook will give you an overview of what you can expect from Okeechobee Christian Academy and what is expected from our parents and students. Realize though, that OCA is more than courses, text books and rules. Equipping students involves people…and it is the personal interaction among faculty and students-in class, in chapel, in prayer and in fellowship-that develops a passion for God and a desire to please Him in all that we do. We welcome any questions you may have regarding the policies stated herein. Feel free to call or e-mail us, we will do our best to respond to your questions in a timely manner. 

Respectfully Yours,

Mr. Nick Reynolds

Principal

Okeechobee Christian Academy

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTORY MATTERS   PG   3

OFFICE INFORMATION    7

ADMISSIONS    7

ACADEMIC PROGRAM    9

FINANCIAL MATTERS    17

ATTENDANCE    19

UNIFORM CODE    24

STUDENT CONDUCT AND CAMPUS RULES   25

DISCIPLINE     27

MEDICIAL NEEDS AND ILLNESS   29

CAFETERIA, PARTY, AND HOLIDAY GUIDELINES  31

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION   33

Introductory Matters

Academy History

Okeechobee Christian Academy (OCA) is an inter-denominational school that exists to serve all in the Okeechobee area by providing an education that is Christ-centered, Bible-based, and Academically-distinguished. 

Okeechobee Christian Academy began as Grace Christian Schools, a ministry of the Grace Brethren Church of Okeechobee in August of 1976 with a student body of eighteen. The school has come a long way from its humble beginning in 1976, with three grades and two teachers. We now have programs from K3 to 12^th grade and students participating in dual enrollment at Indian River State College. 

In 2007, the Grace Brethren Church desired to see the expansion of the school’s ministry and began the process. Since the 2008 academic year the instruction for all grades has been in a traditional teaching format with our teachers for the upper grades (6^th-12^th) all being degreed and state certified.

Educational Philosophy

At the very heart of our educational philosophy, is the conviction that God is the author of all truth. We believe and teach that He has chosen to reveal this truth through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through His Word, the Judeo-Christian Scriptures.

The Ministry of Christian Education is About Obeying the Commandment of God. 

· A Christian education is one that is based on Biblical values and principles, where the Word of God is held up as the standard of Truth and the shaper of our worldview. (Deuteronomy 29:29)

· We are to Love the Lord our God with our entire Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength. (Matthew 22:36-38)

· God has ordained Parents as the Educators of their Children. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7) Parents, who choose to delegate this task to a school, do so as an act of partnership. At no time does the school take the place of the parents in terms of their responsibility for the education of their children. Rather the school comes along side of the parents, working in unison with them to fulfill God’s command.

Ø The Ministry of Christian Education is about Nurturing. 

· The cultivation of those qualities, which are desirable in a student, arise first and foremost out of an environment which acknowledges the beautiful uniqueness of each student. (Proverbs 22:6) 

· A Christian education must be Holistic; it must engage every facet of the student: the physical, the emotional, the intellectual, the spiritual, and the social. (Luke 2:5-22)

o Physically every person is an Image-Bearer of the Divine King, formed by His hands to be unique and beautiful in their own way. (Jeremiah 1:5) Students should be encouraged to see themselves as God does, precious and valuable. They should be taught to see their strengths and weaknesses as either God-given, or God-allowed. Good health; the development of a healthy body, of a healthy lifestyle, and of a healthy self-image are all a

o part of a Holistic Christian Education. 

o Emotionally each student possesses a unique personality. That personality must be

o recognized, affirmed, and loved while stressing the positive elements and redirecting the negative ones (i.e. guiding stubbornness towards perseverance). Educators must endeavor to cultivate a safe, secure, and inviting environment that is conducive to learning.

o Intellectually each student has his or her own unique learning style and abilities. As much as it is possible, those learning styles and abilities should be taken into account when planning lessons and teaching. Similarly, teaching techniques and equipment should be age-appropriate for the students involved.

o Spiritually each student was created for connection to God and the lack of that connection is the source of all pain and fear. One can only understand life within the context of the Spiritual realities of God’s Holy Scripture. Therefore each student should be introduced to God’s self-revealed Word and His desire for His creation. The development of this facet of the student lays the foundation for the wisdom that comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ and a Biblical worldview.

o Socially each student has a unique environmental background that must be taken into account. Teachers must recognize and be sensitive to these backgrounds while encouraging students to become all that God intended them to be. Along these lines students must be taught how to conduct themselves appropriately in society, and how to relate to others according to God’s will and design.

Ø The Ministry of Christian Education is about Preparation. 

· A Christian Education must be a truly quality education, classical in content and existential context.  (Philippians 4:9)

o It is Classical in that it prepares students for a lifetime of learning by giving them the tools they need to obtain, evaluate, and synthesize information. This cultivation of the God-given faculty of reason allows students to observe all of the information regarding a given subject, and having done so ascertain what is in fact true and what is false. A quality education includes a well-rounded instruction in English, Science, Social Studies, Mathematics, and the Arts. 

o It is Existential in that it seeks to integrate the apprehending of knowledge with the exercise of that knowledge in such a way so as to create a dynamic and transformational environment.

· A Christian education facilitates an environment of learning, spiritual awareness and an opportunity for maturity.

o While distinct from Discipleship, a Christian Education lays the foundation for discipleship by an active exchange between the teacher and the student wherein the teacher lives before the student and the student learns how to live with in the context of the educational environment.

o Furthermore, a godly teacher models the character of Christ to his/her students and thereby provides a framework for understanding God and how He wishes to relate to them. 

A Christian Education seeks to do more than prepare a student for a job, it also includes helping them to discover God’s call on their lives and giving them what they need to walk in that call: a foundational understanding of God’s Word and the Christian Faith, as well as a Biblical worldview which reflects God’s value system. 

A Christian Education should bring about a hunger for God and a commitment to Christian growth that will be seen in the formation of the student’s character. 

Purpose and Mission Statement

Okeechobee Christian Academy exists to support parents and the church in the common goal of “raising up a child in the way he/she should go.” Our mission is to equip the minds and nurture the hearts of these young people, preparing them to be Christian leaders who love Christ with their whole heart, soul, mind and strength and who seek to be a transforming influence in their world.

School Verse: Philippians 3:14

2011/2012 Scripture Verse:

Philippians 3:12-14… “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

2011/2012 Theme: “Onward and Upward”

School Motto: Christo et Doctrinate (For Christ and Learning)

School Colors: Royal Blue and Yellow

Mascot: Lion

Our Objectives:

We set out to accomplish the following objectives with any student that attends OCA.

A. For the student’s spiritual and moral growth. This is one of the distinguished differences about our school. We care primarily about a student’s salvation and coming into a right relationship with Christ. We desire that they move into this relationship and recognize Christ as Lord by following His authority through obedience. Also, that they develop a deep, passionate love for Him and His Word and recognize the Bible as God’s revealed and inspired Word. We want to create opportunities for a student to recognize their unique gifts and utilize them in service (service projects, chapel services, in the church) to benefit the Christian community.

B. For the student’s personal and social development. The school aims to lead students to love God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength and to lead them in knowing God’s specific will for their lives. This could include character, vocational choices, marriage, stewardship, financial perspectives and commitment to a task. Also, that they learn the principle of loving his neighbor as himself in all relationships, included but not limited to friendships, family, working relationships and the love of self (keeping their body clean and pure).

C. For the student’s academic development. The items in this category are listed below:

a. To have high standards of teaching which lead to mastery of necessary skills.

b. To encourage the student to think logically, clearly, and independently.

c. To develop a strong work ethic.

d. To develop patriotism for the country and community.

e. To develop good stewardship of the environment.

f. To gain skills in setting and accomplishing goals.

g. To train students to think outside the box and expect great things for their lives.

h. To ascertain a Biblical Worldview.

i. To develop an understanding and appreciation of our Christian and American heritage of responsible freedom, human dignity, and acceptance of authority.

j. To take ownership and become responsible, mature adults assuming their place in the Kingdom.

Affiliations

Okeechobee Christian Academy is an Inter-Denominational Christian ministry and a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (A.C.S.I.) since 1979. We are also a member of the Florida Coalition of Christian Private Schools Association (FCCPSA) since the 2010/2011 school year.

Statement of Faith

¨ We believe the Bible to be the inspired, infallible, authoritative, unerring Word of God (II Timothy 3:15, II Peter 1:21).

¨ We believe there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:1, Matthew 28:19, John 10:30).

¨ We believe in the deity of Christ (John 10:33); His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:35); His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 7:26); His miracles (John 2:11); His vicarious and atoning death (I Corinthians 15:3, Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 2:9); His resurrection (John 11:25, I Corinthians 15:4); His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19); His personal return in power and glory (Acts 1:11, Revelation 19:11).

¨ We believe in the absolute necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of the exceeding sinfulness of human nature; and that men are justified on the single ground of faith in the shed blood of Christ and that only by God's grace and through faith alone we are saved (John 3:16-19, John 5:24, Romans 3:23, Romans 5:8-9, Ephesians 2:8-10, Titus 3:5).

¨ We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life, and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation (John 5:28-29).

¨ We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 8:9, I Corinthians 12:12-13, Galatians 3:26-28).

¨ We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (Romans 8:13-14, I Corinthians 3:16, I Corinthians 6:19-20, Ephesians 4:30, 5:18).

As an Inter-Denominational Christian Academy we acknowledge that there are certain Doctrines which are non-essential to Salvation and which have at times caused division in the Body of Christ. Since it is our sincere desire to make a quality Christian education available to all students, we ask that there would be no undue emphasis placed on these other doctrines. 

Clarification

Within this document, whenever the word “Board” or “board” appears it refers to the Okeechobee Christian Academy school board. Where “Parent”, “parent”, “Parents” or “parents” appears it refers to the legal parent or legal guardian. Wherever “Administration” or “administration” appears, it refers to either the Principal, Board and/or both. 

Office Information

Academy Offices

For your convenience, Okeechobee Christian Academy employs a full time Office Manager and an Administrative Assistant. Office hours are from 7:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. 

Please Note: The office is closed on all Academy holidays, however you may leave a message at 763-3072 or e-mail us at oca.offices@gmail.com

When in the office, please be considerate of the staff’s duties as they are dealing with many children and their families and may not be able to give you immediate attention. If the intercom is being used, you may be asked to wait outside the office as any surrounding voices are picked up and transmitted by the sensitive microphone. 

Academy Hours

PreK-3 to 12^th grade 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Classroom doors and entrance doors to all buildings (except the front entrance) will be locked at 8 am. All students need to be in their classrooms, and sitting in their assigned seats by 8 am or they will be considered tardy. The front entrance to our main office will remained locked until 7:30 a.m. Parents can use the front entrance beginning at 7:30 am for student drop off.

When coming to the academy for any reason, the front entrance to the main office must be used. The office staff will help you or will direct you to the person who is able to assist you. Once instruction begins, do not go directly to the classroom. No parent, guardian, or visitor should be on campus without signing in and receiving a Visitor Pass. No parent or student is to enter the Teacher’s Lounge unless specifically directed to by the office staff.

Quality Control

Any incoming or outgoing telephone communications may be monitored or recorded. The Board reserves the right to change the policies stated in this handbook without notice if necessary.

Admissions

Notice of Non-Discrimination Policy 

Okeechobee Christian Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national or ethnic origin in determining eligibility for student admission, in the administration of its educational policies, or in any of its programs.

Admission Requirements

Okeechobee Christian Academy was established to provide a quality Christian education for students. Students who are enrolled and those applying for admission to OCA are evaluated on the basis of their:

§ Desire to attend OCA.

§ Attitude toward Christian standards and principles.

§ Desire to excel academically and the capacity to become self-disciplined.

§ Previous school records (academic and behavioral).

§ Results of pre-admissions and placement testing.

§ Reputation for moral character and respect for authority.

Five-year-old Kindergarten and First Grade applicants must be five and six years of age respectively before September 1^st of the school year for which they are applying. Exceptions will be made at the discretion of the Principal and upon the parents’ signed agreement of the Premature Age Enrollment Disclaimer.

All students must be fully toilet-trained. Your child must be toilet trained for a classroom environment. Due to supervisory and health concerns, the OCA staff will not be responsible for changing soiled clothing. If a child has an accident (i.e. urinating, defecating, etc.), the parent will be called and expected to immediately send someone to change their child’s clothing and clean up. If accidents occur in excess of three times, then the child may be withdrawn from the school. 

Registration

Registration packets may be obtained from the school office during normal operating hours. Submitting a completed registration packet and/or any payment does not guarantee enrollment, it merely notifies OCA of the parent’s desire for their child’s candidacy. For those presently attending and re-registering their child, all accounts must be current in order to re-enroll. 

Enrollment Requirements

In order for a child to be considered as a candidate to attend OCA, a current registration packet must be completely filled out, signed by the parents, notarized and returned to our office. A $400.00 registration fee is necessary to secure the child’s space in the class. This fee is only refundable if the child’s academic or behavioral ability is not acceptable during the testing process.

Parents are required to set up the following appointments:

1.  With the child’s proposed teacher (1^st grade and higher) to test the child’s academic level and ability.

2.  With our Office Manager to discuss financial obligations.

If necessary, the Principal may request a meeting to discuss whether or not the student is accepted and the conditions of their acceptance. 

Along with the current registration packet and fee, OCA must have the following forms to consider a student officially enrolled:

· Copy of birth certificate (new student).

· Copy of Social Security Card (new for all students)

· Receipt of student health examination (new student).

· Original Florida Certificate of Immunization – or Religious Exemption Certificate.

· Parent-Student Handbook Contract signed and notarized by both parents or custodial guardians.

· Any other documents of a special nature that are required by the Principal that have been previously discussed with the parents.

Students are not officially enrolled at OCA if they are missing any of these documents from their file. Parents are urged to make certain all required documents are submitted and updated. Transcripts of student's grades must be received within four (4) weeks of enrollment. OCA reserves the right to make the final decision as to which students are admitted to the school.

Pre-Admission and Placement Testing

Each new 1^st grade and higher student must schedule a time for pre-admission and placement testing. Students in grades 1^st and higher must bring in current Stanford Achievement Test, FCAT, or other state testing results, as well as a current report card in order to be eligible for testing. K5 students do not have to test unless they are entering after the first quarter or if academy personnel feel the student may do poorly due to immaturity or lack of academic preparation. Testing will determine developmental readiness. 

Conditional Acceptance/Conditional Promotion

Every student enrolled at OCA is admitted on a probationary basis for the first academic quarter. This probationary period may be extended if deemed necessary by the academy administration. Removal from probationary status hinges on a satisfactory academic and behavioral record.

Special Needs

Due to the advanced nature of our curriculum, OCA requires testing for students with special needs (emotionally, mentally, behaviorally or physically impaired, etc.). Test results will only be considered if administered through the Okeechobee County School Board. All tests, OCA or otherwise, must have been administered within 6 months of registration at OCA. Please notify our office of any special needs your student has so that we can take the proper steps necessary to consider your child for enrollment. Note: If any testing or professional recommendations indicate a need beyond the scope of OCA, the child will not be allowed to enroll and will be encouraged to consider a school that is more beneficial to the child’s learning and development. 

Annual Re-Enrollment

Re-enrollment for present students will begin on the first working day of March. Registration will be open to new students on the first working day of April. If present students are not re-enrolled during their registration time, we cannot assure them a place for the following year. What is more, previous enrollment does not automatically guarantee re-enrollment.

Academic Program

This section of the Parent-Student Handbook provides an overview of the course of study established for each grade level or division at OCA, outlines methods of measuring and reporting student progress to parents, outlines methods of accessing student achievement at the end of each school year (including determination of eligibility for re-enrollment and/or promotion) and communicates other information specific to individual classes and/or divisions. Parents wishing to obtain a more detailed overview of the course of study established for a specific grade may request a conference with the teacher or Principal.

OCA uses the internationally acclaimed ABeka curriculum and other curriculum that meets all state requirements for grades PreK-3 through 12^th. 

Achievement Testing

In the spring of each year, students in the five-year-old kindergarten will take the Stanford Early School Achievement Test (SESAT), and students in grades 1^st and higher will take the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT). The results of this test, coupled with the student’s observed and reported progress throughout the school year, will be weighed in determining student’s readiness to advance to the next grade level. Student scores will be anonymously compared to those of other students in the same grade throughout the nation, as well as to those in other A.C.S.I. Schools. All score reports remain property of OCA. A copy of your child’s report is mailed along with their final report card. No score report or report card or other school records will be released unless account balances are paid in full.

PreK Program

Students in the three and four-year-old kindergarten receive instruction in the following courses: Bible, Phonics, Reading, Numbers, and Writing. They participate in a variety of activities designed to improve motor skills, to encourage and prepare them for reading. They are also taught to appreciate: Art, Music, and Poetry, assisting them in their development of good work, play, and social skills. 

K-5 Program

Students in the five year old kindergarten receive instruction in Bible, Phonics, Reading, Science, Numbers, Social Studies, Writing, Language, and Health. They also learn good work, and social skills. They are taught to appreciate Art, Music, Poetry, and Drama. Students in the Five-Year-Old kindergarten will regularly participate in physical education (P.E.) activities and Chapel.

1^st through 5^th Grade Program 

Students in the Primary grade levels receive instruction and numeric grades in the following academic courses:

Bible   Phonics

Reading  Spelling and Vocabulary

Language Arts   History & Geography

Science  Mathematics

Penmanship  Health and Safety

Manners  P.E.   Enrichment

Student grades will be formulated on the basis of their daily work (class participation, seatwork, homework, etc.) quizzes, tests, and special assignments or projects. 

All students will receive an O (outstanding), S (Satisfactory) or U (unsatisfactory) in the non-academic subjects.

6^th through 12^th grade Program

Students in the secondary program receive instruction and numeric grades in a variety of the following academic courses based on grade level and credits needed.

 Bible   History & Geography

 Language Arts  Mathematics

 The Sciences   Health and Nutrition

 Foreign Language  P.E.

 Composition  Leadership

 Varied electives

The secondary program has been developed to promote higher learning and critical thinking skills in correlation with the Florida State Department of Education standards.

Student grades will be formulated on the basis of their daily work (class participation, seatwork, homework, etc.) quizzes, tests and special assignments or projects. 

Secondary Program Disclaimer

All parents of 9^th grade students and higher are required to be aware the disclaimer below. Academic credits are recorded in an official transcript that begins with 9^th grade and continues through 12^th grade. As a result, certain requirements are necessary concerning the transfer of credits between schools. This disclaimer helps parents to understand certain difficulties that can arise when a student is transferred during their 9^th through 12^th grade years. Parents of 6^th through 8^th graders are urged to read the disclaimer and understand its contents, as well. We desire that all parents fully understand the commitment needed for their child’s tenure at OCA. If for any reason the student is withdrawn (academic failure, expulsion, dissatisfaction with the school or program, moving away, etc.), it becomes the student’s burden to retrieve credits according to the rules of the school they are entering. OCA will not be held liable for any consequence resulting from the transfer of a student to another school or from another school.

The 9^th – 12^th grade disclaimer states the following: 

I, the undersigned, have read and understand the section concerning the transfer of high school credits in the Okeechobee County School District Pupil Progression Plan. I realize that if my child transfers either through voluntary withdrawal or is expelled from Okeechobee Christian Academy, the enrolling school may require the student’s work to be validated by subject area semester examinations for all semesters and subjects from 9^th grade until their present grade. Furthermore, I realize these examinations will contain material from an unrelated curriculum and may not be representative of my child’s knowledge and experience. 

Furthermore, I realize that:

Ó  Okeechobee Christian Academy is not an accredited institution. I am aware that most colleges and universities do not require a diploma from an accredited institution; However it is still my responsibility to research college or university entrance requirements concerning diplomas from non-accredited schools. 

Ó Indian River State College allows Okeechobee Christian Academy students to dual enroll, allowing them the opportunity to take college courses at their campus and get credit for those courses at Okeechobee Christian Academy. I realize it is my responsibility to research this program with Indian River State College and abide by any stipulations or rules they may have concerning dual enrollment. 

Ó Okeechobee Christian Academy does not have the resources for a guidance counselor and therefore it is my responsibility to research college or university grants, scholarships or other financial aid options.

Ó Okeechobee Christian Academy does not have the resources or staff to offer the same extra-curricular opportunities as other public or private institutions. In addition, there is no legal provision for Okeechobee Christian Academy students to participate in public school programs, extra-curricular or otherwise.

Physical Education (P.E.)

Students will be instructed in physical education, as well as health and nutrition. Students are expected to dress in the Academy P.E. Uniform shorts and t-shirts that may be purchased through the Office. Also required on P.E. days are socks and athletic shoes. P.E. is mandatory unless excused for medical reasons (a note to the P.E. teacher from a parent or doctor's excuse if for an extended period of time must be submitted prior to the activity).

Health

Grades 1^st through 12^th will be taught Health with a grade based on the O, S, or U scale.

Enrichment

Students K5 through 5^th grade will receive weekly instruction designed to enrich their academic and social lives. This instruction may be in the following areas: music, art, computer science, outdoor games, citizenship/etiquette, and library. A grade of O, S or U will be assigned based on the following criteria:

· participation in activity

· attitude toward activity & others

· cooperation with teacher

Chapel

Chapel is held every Friday morning in the Church where parents are welcome and encouraged to attend. PreK-3 through 12^th grade students and teachers meet from 8:20 to 9:10 am for assembly services. Chapel Services may consist of a visit and lecture from someone in the community, performances by various classes, award ceremonies, etc.

Pledges

All students are required to learn and recite the three pledges, which reflect the dual nature of our Christian-American citizenship. All adults on campus are asked to participate in the pledges as well.

Pledge of Allegiance to the Christian Flag

“I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag and to the Savior for whose Kingdom it stands: one Savior, crucified, risen and coming again, with life eternal to all who believe.”

Pledge of Allegiance to the Bible

“I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s Holy Word. I will make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I will hide its words in my heart that I might not sin against God.”

Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America’s Flag

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands: one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Reporting Progress to Parents & Grading Scale

Parents of students in all grades will receive a quarterly Report Card, which enables the parents to chart the student’s progress from one reporting period to the next. Numeric grades equating to a letter grade will be provided in the appropriate courses (see section on Curriculum) and non-numeric grades will be provided in other appropriate subject areas. Students will receive an evaluation of their attentiveness, cooperation, effort, obedience and responsibility during the marking period. Attendance records and teacher comments will be provided. To maintain our high academic standard, courses that receive numeric grades will be reported utilizing the following grading scale:

A = 90 – 100 

B = 80 – 89 

C = 70 – 79 

D = 60 – 69 

F = 0 – 59 

I = Incomplete

An "I" in the place of any numeric grade indicates that the student's work was INCOMPLETE. Under normal circumstances, a student must make-up any work incomplete at the end of the grading period within one week to avoid receiving a "D" or failing grade for the course. Students may not make-up any work from days of unexcused absences or tardies, including suspensions. 

Those subject areas receiving non-numeric grades or character trait evaluations will utilize the following symbols to communicate student progress:

O Outstanding  (above average, 90-100)

S Satisfactory  (average, 60-89)

U Unsatisfactory (below average, 0-59)

At the midpoint of each quarterly grading period, parents will receive a STUDENT PROGRESS REPORT. All progress reports must be signed and returned to the teacher.

Promotion and Graduation Requirements

In order for a student (K5 to 8^th grade) to be promoted to the next grade, they must achieve a yearly average of “C” or above in all academic subjects (Bible, Reading, Language-Phonics, Arithmetic, History-Geography and Science).

Students in grades 9th-12th must achieve a "C" or above in a course to earn credit for that course.

After careful review of the student’s academic, behavior and attendance record, the Board may or may not decide, due to special circumstances, to promote a student who has not met the above criteria.

9^th-12^th grade students earn credits for completed coursework. Promotion for these students delineates as follows:

To be promoted to 10^th grade – 5 credits

To be promoted to 11^th grade – 11 credits

To be promoted to 12^th grade – 17 credits

Seniors who successfully complete their tenure at Okeechobee Christian Academy will receive a high school diploma and transcripts reflecting their work and achievement. Graduating students must have the following credits:

Subject   Credits

English   4.00

Mathematics    4.00

Science   3.00

History   3.00

Physical Education  1.00

Foreign Language   2.00

Bible Electives   4.00

Open Electives   3.00

Total Needed   24.0

Honor Roll

Students receiving an “A” in each academic course and no lower than an “S” in each non-academic course, will have their names placed on the “A” Honor Roll. Students receiving an “A” or “B” in each academic course and no lower than an “S” in each non-academic course, will have their names placed on the “A-B” Honor Roll. Honor Roll lists may be published in the local newspapers.

Textbooks and Supplies

Part of the registration fee covers the cost of student workbooks and certain supplies. Teachers frequently remove the pages from student workbooks and issue them daily as needed to ensure that the student always has the necessary assignments at hand. When this is not done, the student is admonished to take proper care of their workbooks throughout the year. These fees cover a portion of the cost of re-useable books issued to the student as well. Normal wear is to be expected. Reusable books that have been lost or abused by a student, however, must be replaced at the student's expense.

Computers and Accessories

All students are expected to take care of the computers and any accessories involved in their classroom. Students are forbidden to alter any software programs, configurations or hardware without the permission of the teacher. Any damage or loss of software or hardware as a result of abuse or neglect will be the financial responsibility of the parent. 

Remedial Help & After School Tutoring

If a student is struggling academically, OCA may make personnel available from time to time to provide remedial assistance. Parents who desire trained tutorial assistance for their child are encouraged to make this desire known to the office staff, who will try to assist you in the location and selection of a competent tutor. 

Homework

Homework is assigned at every grade level at OCA.

At the Kindergarten level, homework generally involves reviewing Bible Verses, Reading, and reviewing Phonics and Arithmetic skills. Homework should not exceed 30 minutes on a nightly basis. 

At the Elementary level, homework generally involves Reading, review of Spelling and Vocabulary words, review of Bible verses, and the completion of unfinished seatwork, generally not to exceed 1 hour for lower elementary (1^st-2^nd) to 1 ½ hours for the upper grades (3^rd - higher). Homework basically involves any extra time necessary to complete student-required goals. This should not exceed 1 ½ hours nightly if a student is using time wisely during the school day. 

Extra-Curricular Activities

Okeechobee Christian Academy endeavors to offer the following activities or opportunities:

· Parent-Student Orientation Day(s) or Open House

· Special Student Programs

· Fall and Spring Days of Prayer

· Spelling Bee

· Science Fair

· Field Days (mini-Olympics)

· Parent-Teacher Meetings

· Award Ceremonies

· Chapel Performances

· Fund Raisers

Details will be provided well in advance of each activity or opportunity. As always, parents are invited and encouraged to be involved in their child’s school life.

Field Trips
All classes will generally schedule one field trip each semester. Field trips are designed to broaden the student's educational experience, provide a break from the normal academic routine, and bond the class together through the enjoyment of a shared experience.

To preserve the purpose for which they are designed and guard against liability risks to Okeechobee Christian Academy, field trips may only be attended by the classroom teacher, class members and their parent or legal guardian chaperones. We do not allow siblings to attend field trips due to supervision conflicts with the parent/chaperone. If the parent cannot comply with the Field Trip policies, they will not be permitted to chaperone.

The teacher sponsoring the field trip will set the number of chaperones needed for each trip. Parents will be selected on a first come-first served basis. The teacher will determine chaperones, arrange schedules, organize drivers, and make any arrangements concerning the entire trip. Your full support during this special learning time is greatly appreciated. Students not attending a field trip should be kept at home, as there is no one to supervise the student in the classroom. In these instances, homebound students may be asked to complete a research paper on a topic related to the field trip.

OCA must frequently rely on parent vehicles and parent drivers to transport students on field trips and other class outings. It is to be understood that when parents give their child permission to participate in such an activity, they are releasing OCA and designated parent drivers from the liability associated with the transporting of their child. Note: Parents using their vehicles for school events are not covered by the school's liability coverage. Prior to transporting any students, all parent drivers must furnish a copy of a valid Florida Driver License and current automobile insurance card to the teacher (the office will make copies for you).

All chaperones must:

· Be a parent or legal guardian of the student attending . . . grandparents or other family members over the age of 21 may be permitted upon prior approval of the Headmaster.

· Attend a mandatory chaperone meeting prior to the trip; if both parents are going, both must attend the meeting; Holding a chaperone meeting is at the discretion of the teacher.

· Abide by the OCA Campus Atmosphere Policy (see index).

· Dress conservatively and modestly as you are representing our school and community; do not wear any tight or revealing clothing that may bring attention to private body parts.

· If the trip involves a water activity, chaperones are not permitted to wear bikinis, thongs, Speedos or any revealing bathing suit or clothing that brings attention to private body parts.

· Use appropriate language and display appropriate attitudes towards all students and adults.

· Refrain from the use of tobacco (including cigarettes) or alcohol products for the ENTIRE duration of the trip.

· Stay with the students who are assigned to them for the entire duration of the trip.

· Stay together in a caravan with the teacher’s vehicle at all times while driving.

· Follow all instructions of the teacher or authorized leader.

· Participate in all planned activities.

· Familiarize themselves with the A.C.S.I. Statement of Faith (see index) and limit their responses to spiritual questions or comments of students and parents to this Statement for the ENTIRE duration of the trip.

Any parent, guardian, chaperone, or volunteer who chooses to create problems by not following all of the teacher’s directions or school policies during a field trip will put their child’s enrollment status in jeopardy or may be denied approval to chaperone future events. 

Student Eligibility for Field Trips & Activities

Since field trips and activities are rewards, students must be eligible to participate. If a student is suspended on the day of a trip or activity, they will not be permitted to attend and any monies paid will be non-refundable. In addition, all monies paid will be non-refundable for students who have become disqualified to attend a field trip or activity from failure to meet the conditions listed below.

The following conditions must be met in order for a student to be eligible for field trips or activities…no exceptions:

· officially enrolled at OCA on the day/s of the trip

· academically responsible 

· behaviorally responsible

· teacher recommendation

· no communicable illnesses

· notarized medical form on file

· signed permission slip returned to the teacher

· no account in serious breach of financial contract (see bookkeeper)

Volunteers

OCA welcomes volunteers (parent or otherwise) and factors volunteerism into its reenrollment decisions. We ask that all volunteers sign in to the office upon arrival to receive a Volunteer badge and sign out upon departure. Any keys that are distributed must be turned back in before 3:00 p.m. on the day of service. We also require volunteers to adhere strictly to the above rules for chaperones follow the Campus Atmosphere Policy. All those who volunteer regularly will also need to be finger printed. To better coordinate volunteer opportunities please fill out a Resource Network Questionnaire on the website.

Parent/ Teacher Communication

OCA is on an electronic format for its parent/ teacher communication. Parents are required to give an email contact address where all academy information can be sent. This email account should be checked regularly for it will be the primary mode of communication for the academy.

Financial Matters

Tuition, Fees and Other Expenses

For parents, the primary expenses associated with enrollment at OCA are registration and tuition fees. Registration fees pay for consumable books and supplies as well as for a portion of the cost of reusable books. Registration fees also cover the cost of A.C.S.I. organizational fees, supplemental student accident insurance, achievement testing as well as other related expenses. The non-refundable registration fee applies to both new and returning children and must be paid before a child is considered enrolled. Tuition alone cannot pay for all of the costs that our private school generates. As a result, we use a few fundraisers to keep tuition low and help defray operational expenses. Your help in doing the best job possible with our fundraisers directly benefits your family by keeping tuition lower than comparable private schools.

Graduation Fee

Kindergartners and high school seniors are assessed an additional graduation fee to cover cost of graduating supplies, cap & gown, and refreshments for the evening’s event. This fee is due at the time of enrollment.

Tuition Payment

To meet the needs of various families, our school has developed payment plans from which parents can choose: ten monthly installments, two biannual payments with a discount, or a one-time payment with a discount. Extended Care and other services are extra and not reflected in the tuition price. Please direct all questions concerning this to our Office Administrator. 

Payment Policies

1. Monthly tuition payments are due on the 1st day of each month and are delinquent after the 10th of that month. 

2. There is a $25.00 late fee added onto the unpaid balance after the 10th of the month. Statements are placed in your child’s backpack within the first week of the month. If for whatever reason you do not receive a statement, contact the office immediately to avoid receiving a late fee.

3. Accounts that remain delinquent after 2^nd week of the month shall be scheduled for a meeting with the Principal to set up payment arrangements. If an account is not current by the end of the month and if there are no arrangements with the Office on file, this will result in automatic withdrawal of the student and the delinquent account being submitted to a collections agency, or small claims court. The cost of which will be assumed by the delinquent party. Exemptions to this must be approved by the School Board.

4. If an account is past due without prior arrangements, the student may not be permitted to attend field trips (see Office Manager).

5. There is a $20.00 charge for all returned checks. After the 2^nd returned check, payments must be made in the form of cash or money order for the remainder of the year.

Each department credits payments in separate accounts (Tuition and Extended Care are billed together). To save resources and time, please do not combine payments. All payments to OCA for tuition, lunch, fundraisers, field trips, etc. must be separate from all other payments. Please make checks out to O.C.A. or Okeechobee Christian Academy, and write what the payment is for on the memo line.

All tuition is calculated on a monthly basis. If for any reason a child is enrolled or withdrawn after the school year begins, tuition will be due in full for the entire month of enrollment or withdrawal.

Tuition Rates

1. Tuition rates are listed in the current registration packet, which may be obtained from the office.

2. Inflation, cost of living increases, and enrollment directly affect the school's operational costs and that is reflected in an annual rate increase.

3. To insure a quality program, the school reserves the right to increase tuition rates or to change financial policies upon a 30-day written notice to parents.

Extended Care Rates, Times, & Terms

Extended Care is available from 3:10 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

All students who participate in Extended Care are permitted to change into play clothes. Shorts may be worn as long as they are fingertip length and loose fitting. No tank, halter, or tube tops are permitted. Children who are not appropriately attired will be asked to change back into their uniform. After three (3) subsequent warnings concerning inappropriate dress, students will forfeit the privilege of changing into play clothes for the remainder of the quarter.

Extended Care Rates:

PreK  12:00-5:30  $5.00 per day

K-5 and up 3:10-5:30 p.m.  $4.00 per day

Parents will forfeit eligibility to utilize extended care services if charges are not promptly paid. Extended Care balances that are past due will be added and billed to the monthly statement along with a late fee, if applicable. 

Extended Care Late Pickup Charge

Our Extended Care hours end at 5:30 p.m. If your child is not picked up by the authorized person indicated on the Emergency Card by 5:30 p.m., a flat rate of $25.00 will be charged and an additional rate of $2.00 per minute thereafter. Please respect our staff’s time and arrange to have your child picked up by 5:30 p.m.

Federal Income Tax ID Number

The federal tax reform requires parents to include the tax ID number on their tax forms if claiming a childcare deduction (elementary after school child care service). This is only for childcare costs and not tuition. Please see the Office Manger for the number or more information.

Voluntary Contributions

OCA encourages and relies upon voluntary contributions to do the following:

¨ Help close the operational gap between income from tuition and fees and actual school operating expenses.

¨ Help provide scholarship assistance for truly needy students.

¨ Help finance special projects benefiting the students of OCA.

Your gifts above and beyond normally assessed fees are tax deductible and are greatly appreciated!

Fund Raising

Tuition alone cannot meet the costs of payroll, utilities, building expenses, supplies, insurance, etc. Since families at OCA enjoy some of the lowest tuition rates in South Florida, we appreciate any time and effort you put forth in helping your child raise much needed funds for the school. When appropriate, we will provide incentives for the students either individually or by class. These incentives may take the place of prizes, awards, trips, etc. Please be aware that your participation and support during these critical events is a mandatory part of your child’s enrollment here at OCA. If you are unable to participate in these fundraising endeavors, a flat rate fundraising fee will be assessed to your account. We ask all parents to pray and be as involved and supportive as possible in our fundraising efforts.

Withdrawal

A STUDENT WITHDRAWAL/TRANSFER FORM must be completed for any student terminating their enrollment prior to the end of the academic year at OCA. All financial obligations need to be made current at that time. Fees will continue to be assessed to the account of any student who has not been officially withdrawn. No records (medical being exempt by law) will be released if any unpaid balance remains. Since OCA runs on a tight budget, if an account becomes delinquent past 30 days, it will be turned over to a credit reporting and collection agency or a judgment or lien may be filed against the family at the county courthouse for not fulfilling their signed financial contract. The cost of this will be assumed by the delinquent party. Any student who is withdrawn or expelled will forfeit all rewards (i.e. trips, prizes, awards, etc.) not yet awarded for fundraisers, attendance, grades, or other activities.

Attendance

Morning Arrival

7:30 a.m. – Students may begin arriving and go to their classrooms; no students are allowed to be outside without adult supervision.

8:00 a.m. – Drive Through & Drive Around closed. All outside & inside doors will be locked-except for the front doors of the Academy. Parents must escort their children to the front office and must sign students in to obtain tardy slip.(Students in 6^th through 12^th grades may sign themselves in only.)

For safety due to the close proximity of the highway, an adult must accompany all elementary students entering through the front doors of A-Building. 

It is the parent’s responsibility to escort their child to the school office, check their child in, and obtain a tardy slip for admission into the classroom. No student will be admitted to class without a tardy slip. OCA is not liable for children who are dropped off, apart from their class without the official supervision of the staff. Please do not drop your child off and expect them to obtain a tardy slip by themselves.

When tardy, students who drive themselves to school will be responsible for signing in at the main office before reporting to class.

Student Drop Off

To insure the safety of our students, all traffic arriving before 8:00 a.m. must use the following route:

DRIVE THROUGH (located between A & B-Buildings)

If a parent chooses to drive around through the back parking lot, the vehicle must stop at the bleachers and the child must be let out of the passenger side, parallel to the fence line. The child must then walk along the fence to enter their classroom building. Please drop off children only parallel to the fence line (3rd-12th) or in the drive-through walkway (PreK-2nd). Please plan ahead and never be in a rushed situation where your child’s safety is at stake. When walking your child from the parking lot to their classroom, they must walk, remaining at your side at all times. A vehicle may strike your child if you do not follow this traffic policy. Also, please make sure never to walk through traffic, and stay alert for moving vehicles.

As a courtesy, we will do our best to have staff help your child during drop off or pick up. However, at times we may be shorthanded. When this occurs, parents are to take the responsibility of getting their child in and out of their own vehicle in a timely manner. Due to legal restrictions, our staff cannot undo a child’s seatbelt or lift them out of a vehicle. Parents of young children will need to park and walk their child in or take care of unbuckling their child prior to pulling up to the door.

Parking & Traffic

If the main parking lot spaces are filled, DO NOT double-park or park in the Back Lot. The Back Lot is reserved for flowing traffic during drop off and pick up, as well as for P.E. activities. In the Main Lot, vehicles may only be parked within the lined spaces. The fire and safety code maintains that any vehicles that are blocking ingress, egress, or another vehicle’s right of way must be towed to provide safe passage for emergency and police vehicles or sudden evacuation.

Parents may only park in the following areas:

· Main Lot within lined spaces (area between the Grace Brethren Sanctuary and the OCA Main Office)

· Along Parrott Avenue (area next to the road; please do not block the Main Lot entrance)

· Athletic Field across from N.E. 2^nd Avenue (area next to both roads)

Please drive SLOWLY and CAREFULLY on or around our campus, as children may not be watching for vehicles. 

Tardiness

OCA expects students to be on time to school and to class.

It is paramount for students to be on time for class and in their seat by 8:00 am, as it promotes good work habits and helps the students to begin their day on solid ground. When a student has three (3) unexcused tardies, they will be converted into one (1) unexcused absence. For example: 15 unexcused tardies = 5 unexcused absences. Students who are habitually tardy will have their enrollment status reviewed by the Board. If a test is missed due to an unexcused tardy or unexcused absence, the student may receive a “0” (zero) for that test. 

To avoid disrupting learning, tardy students may be asked to wait in the office until the teacher grants permission for them to enter the classroom. If your child’s class is in B-Building, E-Building, or the chapel, the parent will be asked to escort their child to the classroom.

Sign In & Sign Out

Any parent wanting to remove a child from the premises for any reason (doctor appointments, personal reasons, etc.) must first come into the office to sign the child out. Please see the section titled “Early Checkout” for more details. If a child is returning to school, again the parent must first come to the office and sign the child in before bringing the child back to their class.

To prevent students from missing necessary class instruction, they will not be brought to the office to wait for the parent in advance. Please arrange to have all make-up work, study materials, etc. delivered to the main office. In the event the child is ill and needs to be removed from the classroom, the child is expected to be picked up within 20 minutes. OCA is not equipped with clinical services and will not hold a child in the office for any reason. The parent is required to have the child picked up within 20 minutes by someone listed on the pick-up card when a call from our office requests this action. 

In the event that your child needs to be picked up, the parent should send only those people who are indicated on the Emergency Information card as authorized to pick up your child. A person is considered as “authorized” when their name is listed on the Emergency Information card. Please be careful whom you indicate on the pick-up authorization. Due to legal constraints, OCA will not get involved in personal matters and only releases children to those who have been listed as authorized. Because the Emergency Information card is a notarized legal document, any changes to it must be made by the parent; office staff cannot make changes to the card based on a phone call or a written notice from the parent.

For your child’s safety, a handwritten note signed by the parent or guardian must be submitted to the office at least 30 (thirty) minutes before the child is to be picked up (on the date of pick up) in order for someone who is not listed on the Emergency Information card to pick up a child. This gives our office enough time to compare signatures and notify all staff involved with dismissing your child. The note must include the following:

a. Pick up person’s name (no nicknames)

b. Permission for them to pick up

c. Date and approximate time of pick up

d. Parent/ guardian signature.

For your child’s safety, signatures will be compared to the Emergency Information card. Please notify the pick up person that they must come into the office and present their driver’s license to validate their identification.

All students who have obtained permission to leave campus for lunch, dual enrollment courses, etc. are to sign out and back in with the main office. 

Absences

For a student to gain the most from their academic experience at OCA, they must be consistent in their attendance. Although occasional absences occur, frequent absences, except for reasons of prolonged illness or recurring health difficulties, must be avoided for the sake of the individual child, the class and teacher. For this reason, parents will receive a phone call from the office each day to check up on absent students. Generally, the only absences that will be excused are for:

· Student illness

· Death in the immediate family

· Emergencies of a one-time nature

· Doctor appointments which must be scheduled during school hours. For doctor appointments, a note from the doctor’s office must follow and be submitted to the main office upon return.

Students who stay home or are checked out early, due to out-of-town family members who are visiting or another non-excused reason will not be considered excused unless approval has been granted by the teacher (3 days or less) or administration (4 days or more) in advance. Parents must submit a letter to the office explaining the reason for the absence or early check out. 

When a student is absent for any reason, a note from the parent is required to be turned into the office on the day of the student’s return. This note will help us determine whether or not the absence was excused. The note in and of itself does not constitute an excuse, but is kept in our files for attendance purposes. If a test is missed due to an unexcused tardy or absence, the student may receive a “0” (zero) for that test. 

If a student has missed three (3) consecutive days due to illness, a doctor's note will be required in order to be considered an excused absence. If a doctor's note is not provided upon return, it will be considered an unexcused absence.

When requesting make-up work, please allow time for the teacher to properly prepare. When absent or removing your child early from school, please make arrangements with the teacher 24 hours in advance for any make-up work, if possible. Make-up work may be picked up at 3:00 p.m. in the office that day, if notice was given prior to 10:00 a.m. The student will have a period of time, determined by the teacher, in which to complete missed assignments. Exceeding the time frame given will normally result in lowering of the student's grade and ultimately in a grade of zero for the work missed. 

To promote the student’s success at OCA, the maximum number of days that any student may be absent during each semester is seven (7). Any student whose absences exceed this number during the academic year may be asked to appear before the Board and may not be promoted to the next grade in the following academic year except by special action of the Board. This action will generally follow in a situation where long term illness coupled with homebound instruction has substantially contributed to the student’s academic growth. For your benefit, please keep detailed records of all absences and tardies. The Board also requires that the student be tested by the next grade’s teacher to assess whether or not the student is academically prepared for promotion. Those students on scholarships may jeopardize their scholarship with attendance issues.

Early Checkout

A parent needing to remove a student from class early must first come to the school office and sign the student out. The parent must then wait while school staff retrieves the student or authorizes the parent to do so. If the parent is authorized to retrieve the student, a visitor pass will be given to the parent to gain entry into the building and classroom. If you know in advance that you are signing your child out early, please notify the teacher in advance by writing a note and submitting it before 9:00 a.m. on the day of early checkout. It is understood that situations arise, such as a sudden emergency or an unscheduled doctor’s visit, where it is necessary to check the student out early.  In instances where a doctor or dentist appointment is involved, please submit a note from their office for our attendance records.

We will not dismiss students after 2:30 pm as we are getting prepared for the entire student body dismissal.

In order for the student to stay abreast of all information in the classroom, we will not take a child out of class to sit in the front office. Students will either be called down to the office once parents arrive or the parent will be sent to retrieve the student. 

Student Dismissal & Pickup

All students will be dismissed to the bleachers at 2:55 p.m. Please use the drive around to pick up your child, stopping just beyond the basketball net so as to fit the most cars in our lot as possible. Our staff will assist you in student pickup. Please be patient and respectful with our traffic staff as they work to keep a safe environment during this time. On inclement weather days, students will gather inside their designated areas; parents will pull through the drive-through for pick-up. Please be patient on these occasions, as this process is quite a bit slower than using the bleachers and drive-around.

If you are picking up a child other than your own and you are not on that family’s Authorized Pick-Up List, the parent must submit a signed and dated note giving you permission to take their child from our campus. For your child’s safety, the note must be in the office 30 (thirty) minutes before the child is going to be picked up (on the date of pick up) in order to give our staff time to compare signatures and notify all staff involved. Please review the above “Sign In & Sign Out” policy.

We ask all parents and those authorized to pickup not to get into a conversation with the staff or parents as others are waiting in line to pick up their own child. If you need to talk to a staff member assisting in pick up or drop off, please feel free to schedule an appointment through the office. We thank everyone in advance for being respectful of one another’s time.

Uniform Code

To promote an orderly appearance throughout our student body, OCA maintains a uniform policy for PreK through 12^th grade. All uniform parts must be the required color shade and style as outlined below. To prevent any violation of policy, please retain any receipts to return inappropriate merchandise. All grades must adhere to the below uniform policy. 

Monday-Thursday: 

Boys - Khaki or Navy pants or shorts and an OCA polo (navy, red, white, and/ or gray).

Girls - Khaki or Navy pants, shorts, skorts, skirts, jumpers, or capris and an OCA polo (navy, red, white and/or gray).

Students must always wear closed toed and closed heeled shoes with socks.

Fridays: 

All students may wear nice jeans (See below for specifics) with OCA polo -color of their choice.

P.E. Uniform:

All students are required to dress in the OCA P.E. Uniform on P.E. days. The OCA shorts and t-shirt can be purchased from the Academy office for $14. Students will need to provide and wear socks and sneakers.

Special Occasions:

On certain occasions such as picture day, specific color polo may be mandated.

· ALL uniform parts must be labeled with student’s first initial and last name (i.e. “J. Doe”). Local department stores carry a “Rub-A-Dub” laundry marker that works well for this purpose. OCA and its personnel are not liable for lost or stolen uniform parts.

· Students must wear closed toe and closed heel shoes at all times to prevent injury and protect their feet.

· Socks or hosiery must be worn with shoes to prevent sweat or odor problems.

· It is recommended that younger children (PreK and K5) wear elastic waist items, making bathroom trips easier.

· All skirts must be no more than 1” above the knee. To test proper length, kneel on both knees…the skirt should be touching the floor.

· No student is to wear tight-fitting, revealing clothing that draws attention to private body parts. All underwear parts must be completely hidden at all times.

· Shorts and Skorts must be loose-fitting and fingertip length.

· Girls wearing skirts must maintain modesty when seated. It is recommended that they wear bicycle shorts under their skirts, especially in the younger grades.

· All students must have their hair fixed neatly, not hanging in their eyes and not dyed or prepared in any unnatural colors or styles. Male students’ hair cannot be longer than their OCA polo shirt collar. All boys should be clean-shaven.

· The wearing of any body piercing jewelry, other than ear lobes, is prohibited.

· For security and modesty, excessive jewelry (expensive or costume) is not permitted.

· All uniform parts must be in good condition (no holes, stains, etc.) and the proper size so as to bring glory to our Lord and pride for our school. Please replace or repair uniform parts immediately when its condition warrants. 

· Hats and sunglasses are not permitted to be worn inside any buildings.

· 6^th through 12^th grade girls are to wear bras at all times. Some upper elementary girls may need to begin wearing them also; please be sensitive to your own child’s needs in this area.

· Students are not permitted to wear tattoos, temporary or permanent. If a student already has a tattoo from a time prior to enrollment at OCA, it must remain covered at all times and a parent letter documenting the time of tattooing must be on file in the office. Under no circumstances is a student permitted to have themselves tattooed while enrolled at OCA.

· Whenever a bathing suit is necessary (i.e. field trip or approved fun day):

§ Girls - one-piece suits only, no French-cut bottoms or low tops (modesty is the key!). Two-piece tankinis are only allowed if the entire midriff is covered when arms are raised above the head. No two-piece swimsuits that show the midriff are allowed. 

§ Boys – loose fitting swim trunk-style shorts (no speedos!). No bathing suits are permitted that draw attention to private body parts (get approval beforehand, if in doubt).

· During P.E., students must wear the official OCA P.E. uniform, athletic shoes and socks.

The Uniform Policy shall be strictly enforced. In the event of any dress code violation, the student will be sent to the office, and the parent will be contacted and asked to bring a proper uniform for his/ her child within thirty minutes. After thirty minutes, the office will contact a person on the student’s emergency contact list to pick up the child who will be waiting for him/ her in the office. If violations become habitual, a meeting with the Board will be required to determine the ongoing status of enrollment for the student. 

Dollar Dress-Down Day

Generally, the last Wednesday of each month will be a Dollar Dress Down Day (please see the calendar for exact dates). Each student that chooses to dress-down must bring in $1.00, which will be due upon arrival. This money is used as a mini-fundraiser and will be applied to a need the school has. During a Dollar Dress Down Day (or other non-uniform days), students may not wear the following:

§ Tank, halter or tube top shirts, or shirts that show any of the stomach area when hands are raised.

§ Shirts or other articles which are inappropriate or have an inappropriate message in a Christian environment (please check beforehand with your teacher, if in doubt).

§ Shoes that are not closed heel or closed toe.

§ Clothing that is tattered, ripped, has holes or is in need of repair.

§ Inappropriate accessories (i.e. temporary tattoos, excessive jewelry or jewelry with a poor message, etc.).

§ Shorts that are ultra-baggy or hang down below the crotch.

§ Unnaturally dyed hair colors or styles.

§ Any clothing that is tight fitting or reveals private body parts.

Student Conduct & Campus Rules

Character Expectations

1. Humility – Students are expected to demonstrate respect for and submission to the authority vested in the faculty, staff, administration, parents, and volunteers of OCA at all times.

2. Integrity - Students are expected to maintain a high standard of kindness, courtesy and honesty in their relationships and dealings with fellow students, faculty, staff, volunteers and parents. Students must refrain from the use of inappropriate language, suggestive talk, tattling or gossip.

3. Purity - Students are expected to maintain a high standard of morality at OCA and in the community. Student couples are expected to refrain from public displays of affection while on campus and at school sponsored trips and activities (kissing, hand-holding, hugging, etc.).

4. Maturity - Students are expected not to use physical force (pushing, wrestling, slapping, hitting, etc.) in any of their dealings with other students, faculty or staff, or encourage other students to do so.

General Campus Conduct Expectations

Students are expected to:

 respect the rights and property of others

be silent (speaking in hushed tones only when necessary) while in the hallways

not abuse school equipment or property or use it in ways that it was not intended to be used

clean up after themselves and to keep their personal areas tidy

not litter

not sit or crawl on the floor in the restrooms or hallways

not engage in rowdiness or horseplay

beware of vehicles and traffic throughways

walk on sidewalks and pavement as well as designated playground areas, not on the grass (except playground & athletic field)

not be anywhere on campus without a supervising adult

Classroom Conduct Expectations

Students are expected to:

address the teacher and other staff members with proper terms of respect: Mr., Mrs., Miss, "yes, Sir", "no, Sir", "yes, Ma'am", "no, Ma'am", etc.

raise their hand to gain permission to speak or get out of their seat and must wait until permission is granted before speaking or leaving their seat

be attentive, focused on the teacher or the teacher’s directions. Students may not write or pass notes, throw objects or play with irrelevant objects during class time

regard the teacher's desk and other students’ desks and any items therein or thereon as off limits to them

regard the personal belongings of others (teacher, students, staff, etc.) with respect

not leave the classroom or other area of supervision without permission from their teacher

Leaving Campus

A student may not leave the boundaries of the OCA campus from the moment of initial arrival in the morning until the moment of final departure in the afternoon unless accompanied by their teacher, parent, or authorized adult. A Parent or parent's authorized adult removing a student from campus prior to the end of the school day must sign the student out in the school office. The only exceptions to this policy are:

· For the student whose parent is employed by OCA, who may come and go at the instructions and risk of their own parent, when that parent is free to exercise oversight of their whereabouts.

· For the student whose parent has signed & had notarized the Student Walk-Bicycle or Drive release.

Campus Atmosphere

We request that parents, relatives, friends and all others who have occasion to visit the OCA campus, attend school events, or participate in any other activities sponsored by OCA conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the standards and policies of OCA. Tobacco, drug, and alcohol are not permitted on the campus or at any activities sponsored by OCA.

Parent Visits to Classrooms

Each teacher welcomes the visit of a parent to the classroom. However, any visitor to the campus or classroom must sign in and obtain a pass in the office. The teacher should be notified in advance of any visit so that schedule conflicts may be resolved. The visitor should not use school time for conference activity, but rather observation. If you need a conference, please make an advance appointment through the office for a convenient after-school time. All children who accompany their parents to the classroom must remain under the control and the direct supervision of the parent at all times.

School Visitors

Classroom visits by non-OCA students are not allowed unless the non-OCA student is considering enrollment at the school and is accompanied by their parent and OCA office personnel.

ALL visitors must register immediately with the office to receive a Visitor Pass in exchange for their Driver’s License. The Visitor Pass must be displayed in plain sight on the chest of the visitor. No one will be admitted inside any buildings without this pass properly displayed. All visitors are expected to dress and act according to OCA standards. Please refer to the above Campus Atmosphere policy.

Electronic Devices

Cell phones, Ipods, Gameboys, DS’s, or any other electronic devices cannot be used during school hours. If a student is caught using one of these devices during school hours, the device will be taken away and turned over to the school administrator. We will hold the item for 24 hours at which time the parent will need to come to the office during regular school hours and pick it up. If a student brings an electronic device to school to play with during Extended Care, the item is to remain turned off and in their backpack during school hours. 6^th-12^th graders are allowed to use cell phones only during AT time.

Discipline

Romans 13:1-2

 One of the chief components of discipline at OCA is the understanding that the school is not the primary disciplinarian of any student. The parents are the primary discipline providers for their own children. However, by attending OCA and agreeing to uphold the philosophy, mission, and policies of this academy, each student has placed himself under the school’s authority, rules and policies.

When students enroll at OCA, they agree to abide by the standards of the academy on and off campus year round. Should a situation arise that calls for disciplinary action, the administration, faculty and staff will evaluate the circumstances and take into consideration the “heart attitude” of the individual.

Overview

God's Word tells us that "the Lord disciplines those He loves" (Hebrews 12:6). All teachers will communicate with Parents/ Guardians through email regarding student’s behavior. If you ever have any questions you may contact them through email as well. 

The teachers at OCA love the children and are insightful and understanding of their developmental needs. They seek to identify and eliminate causes of misbehavior, recognizing that students have bad days or fall into bad habits. When it becomes necessary to discipline a child, the teacher will strive to do so with consistency and impartiality and not with sarcasm, in anger, or such a way as to invite or tolerate the ridicule of other students. 

Under normal conditions classroom discipline will go as follows:

1. Warning.

2. 5 minutes of Reflection. (eg. Time out)

3. 30 minutes of Isolation. (eg. Lunch detention)

When a student repeatedly commits the same offense and is unresponsive to discipline measures taken by their teacher or who commits an offense of a serious nature (see Student Conduct: Character Expectations), He or She will be written up on an Incident Referral Report stating the nature of the issue and showing what interventions have already been attempted by the teacher. (Examples of intervention are Removal of privileges; Assignment of a scripture study dealing with the principle(s) the student has violated, generally involving post-assignment discussions with parents and teacher; Requiring restitution, confession, forgiveness or apology to person(s) offended; etc.) This referral will be sent to the main office where it will be reviewed for the necessary disciplinary actions. A copy of this form along with a statement of the consequential administrative discipline will then be sent home with the student, and an email notification will be sent to the parent’s contact email. 

Consequences for Referrals (Per semester) will be as follows:

1. Detention.

2. Suspension will follow the third (3^rd) Detention.

3. Recommendation for Expulsion will follow the second (2^nd) Suspension.

Detention

If a Student receives detention their parent will be called, and the student will speak to the parent on the office phone. Detention will be served after school from 3:10 pm – 4 pm. Students will sit silently during detention. Any students failing to report for detention will have the original detention rescheduled and will receive another detention. Since Detention is served during Extended care hours, the student’s account will be charged the $4 Extended care fee.

Suspension

On rare occasions, suspension of a student is necessary. Any student, who shows blatant disregard for the rules or who, by repeated offenses of lesser severity, demonstrates unresponsiveness to lesser forms of discipline may be suspended. Suspension is a strong statement by OCA to the student, their peers, and parents that the behavior, which warranted the suspension, is unacceptable. If a student is suspended their parents will be called to pick them up immediately.

The Principal of OCA has the authority to suspend a student for a period of one to five school days, depending upon the severity of the offense. The Board, after reviewing any suspension, may lengthen a student's suspension or expel a student, as warranted by the circumstances. 

Please Note: When a student is suspended, if there is graded work done strictly in the classroom on the day(s) of suspension, they may not be allowed to make-up the work and will receive a “0” (zero). If a student is suspended on a day of a field trip, the student is not permitted to attend. In addition, any monies paid toward the field trip are non-refundable. 

Expulsion

Expulsion of a student will take place if the Board believes that the attitudes and actions of a student are contrary to the aims and ideals of OCA. The Board reserves the right to deny enrollment of any student who has been expelled from OCA or any other school.

Zero Tolerance

OCA maintains a Zero Tolerance policy for drugs, alcohol, weapons, dangerous objects (i.e. ammunition), sexual or racial harassment, fights, threats, coercion, insurrection, exclusionary cliques, vandalism, or other objects or acts that pose a security or safety risk to those in our school and community. Possession or action of the above may result in immediate expulsion from OCA.

Please do not bring any toys to school! Toys include, but are not limited to any electronic devices, such as games, radios, tape/CD players, Ipods, DS’s, etc.

If the item is brought for Extended care, it must remain off and secured until that time in the student’s backpack. 

The office will hold all cell phones and toys that are seen during the school day (8:00 am until 3:00 pm). Parents may make arrangements to pick these up after 24 hours. They must be picked up during regular school hours.

Medical Needs and Illness

Illness

A student should be retained at home if their body temperature exceeds one degree or more above normal, or if other symptoms (nausea, severe cough, etc.) indicate that the child is becoming ill. We realize that detection of such is not an exact science, but please use sound judgment in matters of illness, being sensitive to the needs of your child and the health of their classmates and teacher. The Academy policy is that students remain at home for 24 hours following the end of their sickness/illness episode.

Emergency Information Updates

It is absolutely essential that parents keep all emergency information completely current so they can be quickly contacted in the event of illness or injury. The school cannot be held responsible for any health problems aggravated or caused by its inability to contact parents due to inadequate or outdated emergency information. Please indicate on the Emergency Information card who you want specifically called in an emergency situation to pick up your child or for notification. Because it is a notarized legal document, changes to the Emergency Information card may only be made in person by the custodial parents. Due to legal constraints, OCA will not get involved in custodial issues. If a parent or family attempts to involve OCA in any custodial issues, the Board reserves the right to immediately withdraw the student. 

No Facilities for a Clinic

OCA does not have the facilities for a clinic. When a parent is contacted to pick-up their ill or injured child, the child should be picked up immediately. An authorized person listed on the Emergency Information card must pick up any child with a temperature reading of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or more. 

Becoming Ill at School

If a student becomes ill during the school day they will be sent to the school office. The student's parent will be contacted and urged to sign out and pick up the student as quickly as possible. If either parent is not available, we will contact the authorized people on the Emergency Information card. OCA does not have a clinic for the care of sick students. We request that you provide a sufficient backup network of relatives, neighbors, etc. who can come for your child in the event that you cannot be reached. Please understand only the persons the parent has listed on the Emergency Information card are authorized to pick up a child from our school. Please note: for our staff’s health and well-being, no child that is ill will be permitted to speak to a parent on the telephone. Our staff will be glad to assist you in relaying a conversation, but due to contagious germs, we will not allow a student to use the telephone. If you must speak to your child, please come to the school immediately. 

Dispensing Medicine to Students

If the child has a life-threatening allergy or condition (insect bites, asthma, diabetes, etc.), an official physician’s note must be provided to the school stating permission for school personnel to administer the specific medication for treatment of the allergy or condition. This physician’s note must include the child’s name, allergy or condition, specific name of medication and proper dosage. The child will be unable to attend OCA until the physician’s note and medication, both provided by the parent, is submitted and filed in the main office. This is strictly for a life-threatening allergy or condition and does not apply to normal illnesses such as flu, fever, headache, colds, etc. OCA does not have a clinic and cannot be responsible for administering any medication or treatment.

All medications, including vitamins and cough drops, taken by students must be stored in the school office. No medicines will be accepted from or returned to a minor. Parents must bring medicine to the main office and physically hand it over to the office staff. The office staff will then administer the medication as indicated on the official pharmacy label.

Please note that the school will only administer medication if:

1.  The medication is in the official pharmacy container complete with the official pharmacy label, if prescribed or is in the original package, if over-the-counter.

2.  The parent has, on file, a signed and notarized “Notarized Medical Treatment Form” included in the registration packet.

3.  The parent has, on file, a signed and filled out “Authorization for Medical Administration” form.

4.  The parent has advised the teacher in writing of the time to send the student to the office for dispensing of the medication.

The above forms are available in the school office and will be used to provide your standing instructions to us regarding any request by your child for non-aspirin pain relief, flu/cold symptom relief, etc. These pain relievers will not be given without signed parental instructions. Since a school nurse is not available, there will be no administering non-oral medicines (i.e. eye drops, creams, ointments, shots, inhalers, etc.) by OCA personnel.

Asbestos Notice

All parents and staff members are hereby notified that the bathroom floor of A-Building, plumbing, bathroom of D-Building, and entrance to the church auditorium includes some asbestos containing materials. This asbestos is presently being safely maintained in accordance with Federal guidelines and represents no hazard to students or staff. The facility's asbestos management plan is available in the Church office for your study, as required by law.

Pediculosis: Head Lice Infestation

In the event of pediculosis (head lice infestation), the parent is asked to retain their child at home until the problem is fully resolved and treatment can be proven (box top, receipt, empty bottle, etc.). Please be respectful of others’ health and notify the school immediately if you have detected lice or nits. Due to its contagious nature, no child will be permitted on campus with lice or nits. If a case of pediculosis occurs, our staff will inspect the entire class for infestation and notify parents if anything is found.

Communicable Disease Policy

Students admitted to OCA shall be protected from influences negatively affecting their wellbeing. Children with communicable diseases (chicken pox, measles, etc.) could affect classmates and teachers adversely, if such pupils were allowed to attend classes. Therefore, the school will exclude student applicants who are currently infected with live (active) viruses or illnesses of a communicable nature. Any students currently enrolled who have a communicable disease are encouraged to stay at home until a physician releases the child to return to school. OCA reserves the right to deny enrollment or withdraw any child who has contracted a communicable disease that the Board deems threatening to the health of other students, faculty, or staff.

Cafeteria, Party & Holiday Guidelines

Lunch

OCA has re-instated a lunch program, so students may order from the cafeteria on the lunch forms or pack a lunch for school. The Academy does not provide napkins or silverware for lunches not provided from our cafeteria. Please make sure that you provide them from home. While microwaves are available, we are only able to allow lunches that require 2 minutes or less to heat. Parents are welcome to bring their child a lunch from a local restaurant; however, it is the parent’s responsibility to make sure it arrives on time. Homeroom teachers will be checking to make sure that every child has a lunch. In the event that your child does not have a lunch, the office will call you and ask you to provide lunch for your child as policy dictates that no students go without a lunch.

If a child does not have a lunch by the time the class starts lunch, we will provide them one at the regular menu price.

With the exception of irregularly short weeks, Pizza is served from a local restaurant on Friday. Pizza is $1.00 per slice. A drink and ice cream may be purchased for $.50 each. Pizza orders must be placed on the regular menu form. No drinks with caffeine will be permitted until after school during Extended care. Sodas without caffeine are permitted. Parents are urged to avoid sending in drinks that are heavily sugared or have red food coloring as this has been shown to cause hyperactivity in children. Parents are also encouraged not to allow their children to consume “energy drinks” before school since these drinks are known to cause severe hyperactivity and lack of focus.

Snacks

Each class provides its own guidelines for a morning snack break, what type of food items might be brought for student consumption and where and when these items might be consumed. Each student is expected to abide by the guidelines established by their classroom teacher. Candied or sugared snacks and sodas will be available for students to purchase only after dismissal time (for those staying at aftercare). All snacks will be provided from home during the school day (8:00 am– 3:00 pm) or may be purchased from our machine before school begins or during lunch as long as they are not candied or sugared. After the normal school day, students may use the snack and soda machines in the Fellowship Hall. 

If your child mistakenly or intentionally purchases a candied or sugared snack to eat during school, they will not be allowed to consume it until after dismissal.

Recreation
 All students have a scheduled recess period during the day. This privilege may be withheld, in part or whole, depending on the student’s behavior in the classroom or on campus. 

Parties

Your child's birthday is a very special day, and we are happy to help you celebrate it with them. We request that you give your child's teacher at least one week’s advance notice of your desire to have a classroom birthday party. Birthday parties will be held during a convenient time for the teacher and should be kept simple. No birthday parties that are off campus are to be held during school hours. From time to time your child's teacher may call upon you to provide assistance with a class party, celebrating some other special occasion or holiday. Your assistance, when you are able to provide it, is greatly appreciated. To be consistent with our Christian values, please check with the office staff when planning a theme or purchasing decorations or food for a party. Also, please have enough treats for all the children in the classroom. With the exception of ice, no utensils, napkins, cups, condiments, etc. used for classroom parties will be distributed by the cafeteria. All party items must come from home to keep costs down.  

Invitations to a birthday party outside of school may be handed out in class; however, please be sensitive to the feelings of all students in the class. Every student in the class should be included (or every student of the same gender in the case of a slumber party or “all girls” or “all boys” party). The teacher may deny a student the opportunity to pass out invitations if anyone is being excluded; this would then be the responsibility of the parent and student to issue those invitations outside of school.

Holidays

Here at OCA an emphasis is placed upon the Scriptural truth concerning Christian holidays. At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus and exclude Santa Claus. At Easter we celebrate Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, omitting the Easter Bunny. Non-Christian symbols associated with these special times are discouraged. Instead of celebrating Halloween, we emphasize God's bountiful provision by celebrating with Harvest parties and remembering All Saints Day (Saints = anyone who has given their life to Jesus Christ). Witches, goblins and other pagan symbols associated with death, luck, and the occult are not permitted at OCA. All parents and volunteers should check with the office if any item, decoration or celebration is approved according to our Christian values and standards.

Please also be aware that Harry Potter, Goosebumps, Pokemon, and other types of items that deal with witchcraft or occult practices are not allowed at school. 

Miscellaneous Information

Marital/Parental/ Guardianship Status Changes

In the event indication has been made for unauthorized pick-up on the Emergency Information card in your registration packet, OCA requires a copy of the Final Disposition or Divorce Decree or other legal documents indicating such an order to have the capability to legitimately enforce this request. This is the responsibility of the parent to immediately execute this. If this is not properly executed, OCA will not be held accountable or liable and will not honor such a request.

When a parent is divorced, separated, etc., it is the custodial parent or guardian’s responsibility to share any information (i.e. handbooks, newsletters, office memos, classroom information, teacher communications, etc.) with the other parent or guardian. This helps our school to reduce paper waste, resources and time. Please understand the burden that is placed on the teachers and office staff when you request a copy of all information be sent to two separate parents. In terms of tuition and aftercare payments, uniform parts, lunch menus, or other time-sensitive items, it is the responsibility of both parents to execute the policies in this Handbook without drawing our school, faculty, staff, volunteers, or others into the middle of any relational problems. 

As a policy, OCA shall not be involved in the personal affairs of a family in regards to custodial or marital issues. This includes being placed in the middle of two parties who are in disagreement or refuse to fulfill their duty as a parent in relation to our school policies. 

Parent-School Relations

As a Christian ministry, we ask parents to be loyal to the mission and vision of OCA and bring any and all questions and criticisms to the appropriate staff and/or administration so that they may be thoughtfully considered.

In dealing with any problems or concerns, the following Biblical policy should be followed:

1.  Talk privately first to the person with whom the problem or concern exists; do not to talk to their superiors or others about the problem or concern (Matthew 18:15).

2.  However, if no solution is made, then present the problem or concern to the supervisor of the person or group involved; e.g. if teacher - go to the administrator, if administrator - go to the Chairman of the Board (Matthew 18:16).

3.  However, if the problem or concern is still not resolved satisfactorily, submit it in writing to the Board; then request a meeting with the entire Board for resolution of the problem or concern (Matthew 18:17).

Since parents are the best role models for their children, it is expected that all parent-school relations should be of a polite and respectful nature. If a parent does not conduct themselves in a polite or respectful manner towards the OCA faculty, staff, students and/or other parents, the Board reserves the right to permanently remove their child from the school.

Cumulative File Review Rights

State law gives parents full right to review the contents of their children's academic cumulative files by means of written request to the school 24 hours in advance. Parents may also request that any non-academic derogatory material be removed from their child’s file.

Personal Property

All personal belongings of any value should be clearly labeled with the student’s full name and grade. OCA reserves the right to inspect or search the personal property of any student when, in the judgment of its representatives, such an inspection or search is deemed appropriate. No involuntary search of a student’s person (pockets, etc.) will be conducted by OCA personnel without the student's permission. The parent will be contacted if such a search is necessary.

Student possession of valuables on campus is not encouraged, as OCA and its employees and volunteers are not financially or otherwise responsible for the theft, damage, or loss of any student/parent valuables.

Lost and Found

Abandoned items of personal property, for which the ownership cannot be readily determined, will be deposited in Lost And Found located in the Cafeteria windowsill. Parents and students are encouraged to inspect Lost And Found, whenever they suspect their child has misplaced something. All items not reclaimed within a reasonable period of time will be sold, given away, or otherwise disposed of.

Telephone Use by Students

Students will not be permitted to use the school telephone except in cases of emergency, and then, only with the permission of office personnel. If it is absolutely necessary to get a message to the student, the office will relay it. Since the school uses only one line for incoming business calls, please do not ask to speak with your child on the telephone when they are ill, injured, etc. If you feel it is necessary to communicate with your child, please come to the school’s main office. Under no circumstances will an ill child be allowed to use the telephone. Our staff will be glad to assist you in relaying a conversation. No cell phones may be used by students during the school day, except during the Middle/High School Activity Time or extended care. All cell phones must be turned off and kept hidden in book-bags or pockets. Failure to follow this policy will result in the confiscation of the phone, requiring the parent to come to the office after 24 hours to pick it up.

Okeechobee Christian Academy 2011-2012 Parent/Student Handbook