Family Handbook - Southwest Christian School

Southwest Christian School, Inc.
Policies and Procedures
Family Handbook
2016-2017
Established 1969
First Graduating Senior Class 1993
ACCREDITATION
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools through AdvancED – 1999, 2007,
2012
MEMBERSHIP
Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS)
Texas Association of Non-Public Schools (TANS)
Texas Private Schools Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC)
Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
Texas Independent School Consortium (TISC)
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)
Southwest Christian School admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all
the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to
students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic
origin in administration of its educational policies, scholarships and loan programs, and
athletic and other school-administered programs.
1
Dear SCS Families,
At Southwest Christian School we value every member of our community. From the new
student to the veteran parent who has guided multiple children through SCS graduations,
from the teacher leading a class to the spectator cheering on the sidelines of a game,
everyone here deserves our care and respect. For nearly half a century, SCS has tried to
create a learning community that reflects and honors Christ, a safe place that challenges
and motivates students to run the race to which they are called. Over the years, the school
has developed policies, protocols, traditions, and processes to help us achieve that goal.
That’s why it’s important to read through this handbook.
SCS is committed to its mission to graduate young men and women equipped as Christian
leaders in the world…and you play a central role in that effort. How we work together, how
we celebrate, disciple, counsel and—yes, sometimes—correct each other, truly matters. We
aspire to mentor students and partner with families in a safe, structured, environment
where students can maximize their opportunities and God-given talents. As you review the
handbook and then experience life at SCS, please let us know your questions or concerns.
At a recent dinner welcoming families new to SCS, the student council president spoke with
heartfelt emotion about the supportive relationships that she believes make SCS special.
We hope you find the same kind of welcoming and supportive community. Thus, the
principles and details outlined in this handbook are designed to help us nurture
relationships with each other and with our Heavenly Father. I pray that He will continue to
bless and guide our efforts to learn, grow, and serve together at Southwest Christian
School.
Brian Johnson
Head of School
2
Table of Contents
Organization and Mission ......................................................................................................................................................... 8
School Spirit Information ........................................................................................................................................................ 11
School Leadership ................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Parent Participation ................................................................................................................................................................ 15
SCS Annual Fund ................................................................................................................................................................. 15
Auction ............................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Parent Teacher Organization .............................................................................................................................................. 15
Parent Booster Club............................................................................................................................................................ 16
General Policies ...................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Admissions, Application, and Fees .......................................................................................................................................... 19
Interdenominational Statement ......................................................................................................................................... 19
Spiritual Philosophy ............................................................................................................................................................ 19
Admission Criteria .............................................................................................................................................................. 19
Parental Expectation and Support ...................................................................................................................................... 19
Student Expectations .......................................................................................................................................................... 20
Admission Testing ............................................................................................................................................................... 20
Recommendations.............................................................................................................................................................. 20
School Records ................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Interview ............................................................................................................................................................................ 21
Notification of Results ........................................................................................................................................................ 21
Probation ............................................................................................................................................................................ 21
Health Requirements .......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Late Entry ........................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Late Charge Fees................................................................................................................................................................. 21
Insufficient/Return Checks ................................................................................................................................................. 21
Business Procedures ........................................................................................................................................................... 21
Refund Policy on Withdrawals ............................................................................................................................................ 22
Financial Aid ....................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Re-enrollment Criteria ........................................................................................................................................................ 23
Tuition Schedule ................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Tuition Deposit Amounts .................................................................................................................................................... 24
Extended Day Program: Elementary Campus ..................................................................................................................... 25
Before Care ......................................................................................................................................................................... 25
After Care ........................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Early Release Days .............................................................................................................................................................. 25
Fees .................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
General Information ............................................................................................................................................................... 27
Field Trips ........................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Travel .................................................................................................................................................................................. 27
3
Scheduled Trips .................................................................................................................................................................. 27
School Closings – Inclement Weather Procedure ............................................................................................................... 28
School Facilities and Property ............................................................................................................................................ 28
Activities and Events (Master) Calendar ............................................................................................................................. 28
Telephone Usage ................................................................................................................................................................ 28
Messages and Parent Communication ............................................................................................................................... 29
Telephone/Texting & Email Communication with Students ...........................................................................29
Social Networking Policy .................................................................................................................................................... 29
Written Communication ..................................................................................................................................................... 30
Campus Visitors .................................................................................................................................................................. 30
Conferences and School Visitation ..................................................................................................................................... 30
Parent-Teacher Conferences .............................................................................................................................................. 30
Principal Administrative Conferences................................................................................................................................. 30
Volunteer Policy ................................................................................................................................................................. 30
Emergency Information ...................................................................................................................................................... 31
Medical Guidelines ............................................................................................................................................................. 31
Immunization Requirements .................................................................................................................................................. 32
Food/Drink/Gum ................................................................................................................................................................ 36
Concessions ........................................................................................................................................................................ 36
Pets ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
School Pictures ................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Liability ............................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Fire and other Safety Drills ................................................................................................................................................. 37
Lockers................................................................................................................................................................................ 37
Backpacks ........................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Lost and Found ................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Academic Program .................................................................................................................................................................. 38
Curriculum .......................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Student Performance Evaluation and Grading System ....................................................................................................... 38
Progress Reports/Work Ethic (Elementary) Reports .......................................................................................................... 38
Report Cards ....................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Academic Probation ........................................................................................................................................................... 38
Learning Lab ....................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Elementary Campus………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..... 39
General Information ........................................................................................................................................................... 39
School Supplies ................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Lunch Program ................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Attendance ............................................................................................................................................................................. 40
Tardies ................................................................................................................................................................................ 40
Notes for Absences ............................................................................................................................................................. 40
School Notification of Parents Regarding Absences ........................................................................................................... 41
Behavior Standards and Expectations..................................................................................................................................... 41
4
Discipline Practices ............................................................................................................................................................. 41
General Rules of Conduct ................................................................................................................................................... 41
Student Harassment and Hazing Policy .............................................................................................................................. 42
Electronic Devices ............................................................................................................................................................... 43
Elementary School Uniform Policy .......................................................................................................................................... 43
Safety Patrol ....................................................................................................................................................................... 45
Parties (Student Birthday) - Elementary Campus ............................................................................................................... 46
Elementary Campus Student Council ................................................................................................................................. 46
Other Clubs ......................................................................................................................................................................... 46
Academics ............................................................................................................................................................................... 46
Elementary Evaluation Code ................................................................................................................................................... 46
Academic Testing................................................................................................................................................................ 46
Class Assignments and Scheduling of Elementary School Students ................................................................................... 47
Homework .......................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Learning Lab ....................................................................................................................................................................... 48
Home Reading .................................................................................................................................................................... 48
Library - Elementary Campus.............................................................................................................................................. 49
Honor Roll........................................................................................................................................................................... 50
End of Year Awards: ........................................................................................................................................................... 50
Elementary Graduation Ceremonies .................................................................................................................................. 50
Preparatory Campus ............................................................................................................................................................... 51
General Information ........................................................................................................................................................... 51
Building Entry and Exit ........................................................................................................................................................ 51
Parent Parking and Traffic Regulations............................................................................................................................... 51
Student Driver/Vehicle Policy ............................................................................................................................................. 51
Lunch Program ................................................................................................................................................................... 52
Extended Hours for Preparatory Campus (Grades 7-12) .................................................................................................... 52
After School Supervision..................................................................................................................................................... 52
Attendance ............................................................................................................................................................................. 53
Preparatory Campus ........................................................................................................................................................... 53
Attendance ......................................................................................................................................................................... 53
Tardies ................................................................................................................................................................................ 53
Absences............................................................................................................................................................................. 53
Unexcused Absences .......................................................................................................................................................... 54
Reporting Absences and Requesting Make-up Work ......................................................................................................... 54
Notes for Absences ............................................................................................................................................................. 55
Loss of Credit ...................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Student Check Out Policy (Early Dismissal) ........................................................................................................................ 56
School Notification of Parents Regarding Absences (Excused and Unexcused) ................................................................. 56
Family Trips......................................................................................................................................................................... 56
Make-up Work .................................................................................................................................................................... 56
th
Late Work -7 Grade .......................................................................................................................................................... 57
5
Late Work – Grades 8-12 .................................................................................................................................................... 57
Guidance and Academic Services ............................................................................................................................................ 57
Guidance Office .................................................................................................................................................................. 57
Learning Lab ....................................................................................................................................................................... 58
College Counseling ............................................................................................................................................................. 58
Registrar ............................................................................................................................................................................. 58
College Representative Visits ............................................................................................................................................. 58
College Visits....................................................................................................................................................................... 58
Academic Testing................................................................................................................................................................ 58
College Test Dates .............................................................................................................................................................. 59
Homework .......................................................................................................................................................................... 59
Grading System................................................................................................................................................................... 59
Middle School/High School Credits .................................................................................................................................... 60
Middle School Promotion Policy......................................................................................................................................... 60
Graduation Requirements ...................................................................................................................................................... 62
High School Course Offerings.................................................................................................................................................. 64
Honors and Advanced Level Courses .................................................................................................................................. 65
Dropping and Adding Courses ............................................................................................................................................ 65
Correspondence Courses/Online Courses .......................................................................................................................... 65
Credit by Exam .................................................................................................................................................................... 66
Commencement Ceremony ................................................................................................................................................ 66
Graduation with Honors ..................................................................................................................................................... 66
Class Rank ........................................................................................................................................................................... 66
Christian Service Requirements .......................................................................................................................................... 66
Academic Recognition ............................................................................................................................................................ 71
st
1 Semester Awards ........................................................................................................................................................... 71
nd
2 Semester Awards .......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Student Achievement Awards ............................................................................................................................................ 71
National Honor Society ....................................................................................................................................................... 71
National Junior Honor Society ............................................................................................................................................ 72
General Information – NHS & NJHS .................................................................................................................................... 72
Library – Prep Campus ........................................................................................................................................................ 73
Textbooks................................................................................................................................................................................ 74
Required Purchase Textbooks ............................................................................................................................................ 74
Southwest Christian Textbooks .......................................................................................................................................... 74
Uniform Policy........................................................................................................................................................................ 75
Uniform or Dress Code Violations ........................................................................................................................................... 80
Discipline and Student Behavior ............................................................................................................................................. 81
Classroom Conduct-Preparatory Campus........................................................................................................................... 82
Plagiarism ........................................................................................................................................................................... 86
Discipline- Demerit System ................................................................................................................................................. 86
Demerits ............................................................................................................................................................................. 87
6
Classroom Discipline ........................................................................................................................................................... 87
Merits-Middle School ......................................................................................................................................................... 88
Potential Disciplinary Actions ................................................................................................................................................. 88
Disciplinary Conference ...................................................................................................................................................... 88
Probation ............................................................................................................................................................................ 88
Saturday School .................................................................................................................................................................. 88
School Suspension .............................................................................................................................................................. 88
In-School Suspension .......................................................................................................................................................... 89
Out-of-School Suspension .................................................................................................................................................. 89
Dismissal Policy................................................................................................................................................................... 89
Grievance/Appeals Procedure ................................................................................................................................................ 90
Acceptable Use Policy and Agreement ................................................................................................................................... 90
School Activities................................................................................................................................................................ 101
Student Council ................................................................................................................................................................ 101
High School Student Council ............................................................................................................................................. 101
Middle School Service Council .......................................................................................................................................... 101
Other Clubs ....................................................................................................................................................................... 102
Yearbook .......................................................................................................................................................................... 102
Athletics and Spirit Groups ................................................................................................................................................... 103
Statement of Philosophy .................................................................................................................................................. 103
Objectives ......................................................................................................................................................................... 103
Parent and Fan Support .................................................................................................................................................... 104
Spirit Groups – Cheerleading and Dance Team ................................................................................................................ 104
General Eligibility Requirements ...................................................................................................................................... 105
Incompletes ...................................................................................................................................................................... 105
Athletics Guidelines .............................................................................................................................................................. 105
SCS Heritage & Beliefs........................................................................................................................................................... 125
Index ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 126
7
Organization and Mission
Mission Statement
The mission of Southwest Christian School is
to provide a Christ-centered, college-preparatory education
that graduates young adults equipped as Christian leaders in the world.
CORE VALUES
Christian Education
Southwest Christian School values a comprehensive curriculum that is fused with a biblical worldview
whereby students study the world from a Christ-centered perspective, fostering enduring wisdom,
discipline and faith.
Christian Leadership
Southwest Christian School values school administrators and faculty who model and inspire excellence
through their Christ-like example, intellectual curiosity, lifelong learning, and disciplined leadership.
Christian Stewardship
Southwest Christian School values responsible corporate leadership that consistently provides a valuable
education, offering a return on investment that meets or exceeds the expectations of its stakeholders.
Christian Diversity
Southwest Christian School values being an independent, interdenominational Christian school that is
available to families regardless of their race, faith, ethnicity, or socio-economic status.
Christian Maturity
Southwest Christian School values a maturing faith in and walk with Jesus Christ, developing spiritual
disciplines that include prayer, Bible study, worship, evangelism, stewardship, and service.
Christian Family Culture
Southwest Christian School values a family culture that encourages everyone to identify and use their
God-given gifts to the best of their ability, helping them to grow to their full potential.
Christian Partnerships
Southwest Christian School values the biblical responsibility entrusted to the parent to educate their child
and holds in trust the partnership between families, churches, and the community in the educational
process.
Maximum Learning Opportunities
Southwest Christian School values policies and procedures that promote the best atmosphere for
scholarly learning, including class size, class schedule, after-school activities, homework, and tutoring.
Focus on Learning
Southwest Christian School values high expectations for student learning with visible and continuous
efforts to measure and improve, enabling them to competitively pursue colleges of their choosing.
Safe and Orderly Environment
Southwest Christian School values a discipline program that treats all students as God’s children and that
teaches and expects behavior that is proper for ladies and gentlemen of honor.
Quality People
Southwest Christian School values an exceptional professional staff that is compensated, educated,
committed, and equipped to be rated among the best.
Quality Curriculum
Southwest Christian School values a curriculum program where students are encouraged to develop all of
their abilities—intellectual, artistic, athletic, spiritual—using the best strategies, tools, and technology
available.
Quality Facilities
Southwest Christian School values the development and responsible maintenance of facilities that
support and reflect the school’s vision and mission.
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IDEAL FACULTY PROFILE
Christian Minister
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ
and to model Christian values, pursuing the best reputation for faith, integrity, spiritual
leadership, unity, humility, ministry, and grace at school and in the community.
Loyal Partner
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to be personally committed and loyal to achieving
the vision, mission, core values, and graduate profile of the school.
Inspiring Professional
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to be a well-qualified professional, who has a
passion for learning and uses innovative and creative methods to inspire students to greatness.
Genuine Leader
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to genuinely love students, appreciating their
unique God-given gifts and learning styles, holding them accountable to high standards, and
challenging them to think.
Relationship Builder
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to be an effective communicator with students,
parents, and peers, building relationships of trust and consistency.
Protector of Unity
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to be honest, refrain from gossip, and to protect
the intellectual and physical property of others.
Encourager
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to create and contribute to a culture where
academic, artistic, and athletic achievements are esteemed.
Teacher of Truth
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to fuse a biblical worldview with every subject
matter, using a variety of methods without compromising the truth of God’s Word.
Teacher of Respect
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to demonstrate the utmost in manners and
respect, and to require the same in return.
Teacher of Discipline
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to maintain a safe and orderly classroom, applying
discipline in a reasonable and consistent manner.
Teacher of Preparation
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to be prepared each day, responding to
unforeseen challenges or situations with the proper attitude and action.
Teacher of All
Southwest Christian School expects a teacher to respect the diversity of students, including their
race, faith, ethnicity, and socio-economic status.
9
IDEAL GRADUATE PROFILE
Christian Servant-Leader
The Southwest Christian School graduate is a committed Christ-like servant and leader in his or
her family, church, community, college and adult life able to define, enhance and articulate his
or her faith.
Christian Worldview
The Southwest Christian School graduate has a Christian worldview and understands his or her
responsibility to lead a life that reflects Christian values and principles.
Christian Character
The Southwest Christian School graduate enjoys a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and is
equipped to deal with real-life situations as a person of faith, character, humility, and integrity
demonstrating Christ-like love for everyone.
Christian Steward
The Southwest Christian School graduate has a thorough knowledge and understanding of the
Bible, is able to apply its absolute truth in everyday life, submits to accountability with fellow
believers, and responsibly gives back to God.
Intelligent
The Southwest Christian School graduate is an effective oral and written communicator applying
critical thinking skills and thoughtful problem solving in a confident, persuasive, and respectful
manner.
Focused
The Southwest Christian School graduate has identified and developed his or her intellectual,
artistic, athletic gifts from God and chooses to use them for His glory.
Equipped
The Southwest Christian School graduate is prepared for higher education with a strong
academic and spiritual foundation enabling him or her to compete at the college of his or her
choosing.
Enabled
The Southwest Christian School graduate is knowledgeable in the use of technology exhibiting
superior skills in its applications.
Learner
The Southwest Christian School graduate is committed to the lifelong pursuit of wisdom and
knowledge, understanding the commitment and skills required to gain them.
10
School Spirit Information
Alma Mater
(To the tune of “My Country ‘Tis of Thee”)
Our Father, will Thou bless
And lead in righteousness
Our Christian school.
Grant that each one may be
Striving continuously
To praise and honor Thee.
God bless our school.
Fight Song
E-A-G-L-E-S
Go Eagles
Blue –Black –White
Eagles Victory Tonight
Fight- Fight- Fight
Repeat
School Colors
Black, Blue, and White
School Flower
Carnation
Mascot
Eagle
Motto
“Train up a child in the way he should go
and when he is old, he will not
depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6
11
School Leadership
Board of Trustees
Dr. Sandra Callaghan
Mr. Michael Cawood-Board Vice Chair
Mr. Mark Creighton
Mrs. Debbie Daniel
Mrs. Carey Geesbreght
Mr. Wes Hamilton
Mr. Matt Holster-Board Vice Chair
Mrs. Sherilyn Jones-Board Chair
Mr. Stuart Lumpkins, Jr.
Mrs. Elizabeth McCarthy
Mr. Michael Sharpe
Mrs. Staci Strickland
Mr. Paul Stumbo
Mr. Jace Thompson
Mrs. Beth Warner
Board Member Emeritus:
Mr. David Amend
Mr. Robert Bullock
Mr. Garner Roberts
Mr. C. W. Stocker, III
Administration and Support Staff
Head of School
Assistant to the Head of School
Advancement Specialist
Database Coordinator
Director of Finance
Finance Assistant
Finance Assistant
Director of Human Resources
Assistant to Human Resources Director
Admissions Director – Elementary
Admissions Associate – Elementary
Admissions Director - Preparatory
Admissions Associate-Preparatory
Director of Technology – Preparatory
Technology Manager
817-294-9596 x 203
817-294-9596 x 203
817-294-9596 x 219
817-294-9596 x 216
817-294-0350 x 138
817-294-0350 x 126
817-294-0350 x 132
817-294-0350 x 120
817-294-0350 x 156
817-294-0350 x 104
817-294-0350 x 117
817-294-9596 x 252
817-294-9596 x 242
817-294-9596 x 429
817-294-9596 x 221
Lesley Hamilton
Dana Sellers
Randall Hatley
Tiffany Gonzalez
Paige Taff
Kim Bentley
Libby Madison
Emily Wardlaw
Dr. Matt Winn
Shane Mann
Elementary Campus:
Principal
Assistant to the Principal
Assistant Principal EC-6th grades
Curriculum Coordinator
Guidance Counselor
Nurse
Data Services Specialist
Office Assistant/Receptionist
Facilities Manager
Technology Director
817-294-0350
Ext. 137
Ext. 129
Ext. 110
Ext. 124
Ext. 142
Ext. 127
Ext. 141
Ext. 101
Ext. 116
Ext. 113
Justin Kirk
Priscilla Silva
Tammy Johnston
Cassie Poore
Karen Pitre
Sara Stokes
Jennifer Stavenhagen
Kelly Swinney
John deMeyere
Jennifer Harnish
12
Brian E.M. Johnson
Cindy Grinstead
Krissy Comer
Marian Frymire
Preparatory Campus:
High School Principal
High School Assistant Principal
High School Administrative Assistant
Middle School Principal
Middle School Administrative Assistant
Attendance/Administrative Assistant
Dean of Guidance and Academic Services
Student Services Coordinator
Assistant to Counselors/Registrar
Director of Technology
College Counselor
College Counselor
Athletics Director
Athletics Coordinator
Facilities Manager
Facilities Assistant
817-294-9596
Ext. 224
Ext. 293
Ext. 201
Ext. 214
Ext. 230
Ext. 200
Ext. 207
Ext. 260
Ext. 254
Ext. 429
Ext. 206
Ext. 256
Ext. 228
Ext. 227
Ext. 250
Ext. 225
Dr. Shane Naterman
Coby Bird
Nancy Cason
Dr. Joey Richards
Linda Peterson
Sharon Pippin
Travis Crow
Lori Massey
Kristin Pope
Dr. Matthew Winn
Kathy Neill
Kim Hoffman
Tracy Howard
Jamie Pritchett
Steve Jones
Geoffrey Gray
Whom to Call for What:
Elementary Campus:
Priscilla Silva
Jennifer Stavenhagen
Tammy Johnston
Cassie Poore
Karen Pitre
Kelly Swinney
Dana Sellers
Lesley Hamilton
Paige Taff
John deMeyere
Molly Stavenhagen
Sara Stokes
Amy Wilson
Nancy Posey
817-294-0350
Assistant to the Principal: Appointments for Justin
Kirk, questions on school procedures, handbook, main
office contact, and after-school/facility usage, uniforms
Data Services Specialist: attendance, report cards,
cumulative records, Summer at SCS, RenWeb, lunch
count
Assistant Principal Grades EC-6th: discipline, teachers,
general information, Love and Logic training, textbooks
Curriculum, alignment, general information
Guidance Counselor- part-time (M,T,W,F)
Field trips, general information, tardies, early dismissal,
visitor registration, lunch payments, Receptionist,
Eagle Notes, fall and spring school pictures, general
information
Tuition accounts
Accounts Payable
Admissions, school tours
Facilities Manager
Before/After Care, Lunchroom Supervisor
Elementary Nurse
Chapel Coordinator, PE and Elementary Athletics Asst.
Elementary Academy of Arts
13
Preparatory Campus:
Tracy Howard
Lori Massey
Nancy Cason
Travis Crow
Principals
Kathy Neill
Kristin Pope
Sharon Pippin
Linda Peterson
Libby Madison
Cindy Grinstead
Carrie Auten
Steve Jones
817-294-9596
Athletics
Guidance/scheduling questions for girls
Eagle Notes, High School Administrative Assistant,
appointments with Shane Naterman or Coby Bird
Guidance/scheduling questions for boys
Discipline matters
Questions about college entrance or acceptance
Transcripts, school records
General office information, lunch information, tardies,
attendance
Appointments with Joey Richards
Admissions, school tours
Appointments with the Head of School
Medicine, illnesses, healthcare questions, health
screening, Appointment of Agent forms
Facilities
14
Parent Participation
SCS Annual Fund
The future for SCS is a path of continued advancement. With wise stewardship and
effective budgeting of our resources, we are able to use charitable donations to fund the
future for our children and grandchildren by using those gifts to complete capital projects,
to continue to increase faculty opportunities, and to expand and enhance our co-curricular
programs.
Gifts to the school are vital to support the mission and traditions that make Southwest
Christian School exceptional. The generosity of parents, grandparents, faculty, alumni and
friends provides the means for the continued pursuit of excellence in academics, the arts,
athletics and faculty development. You can be confident that you will find no better
investment than Christian education.
Auction
The SCS Auction is the social event of the season and an important fundraiser for the
school. Every year, volunteers work to produce an evening of fun and excitement for SCS
friends and families that raises thousands of dollars for the school through a silent and live
auction and dinner held in the Snelson Building Gymnasium on the preparatory campus.
Items offered include class projects designed and decorated by the students, tickets to
sporting events, jewelry, services, furniture, electronics, exotic trips, and much, much more.
The SCS Auction is always a sell out; make plans early to attend. Invitations will go out to all
families in February.
Parent Teacher Organization
The PTO of our school is strictly a charitable organization with one special interest: our
children. The goals of the PTO are to:
 Promote the welfare of each child in the home, school, church, and community.
 Promote a closer relationship between the home and the school.
 Develop a united effort among teachers, administrators, and parents to secure the best
possible education in a Christian environment.
Membership is not limited to parents and school staff. We welcome all grandparents,
relatives, friends, and anyone who shares our “special interests.” PTO raises and uses its
funds to purchase equipment and supplies that are of immediate necessity to the school,
either in the classroom or in our extra-curricular programs. All monies from membership
dues are used for these purposes. We need your help and support and would be honored
with your membership. If you have any questions, or would like more detailed information,
please contact Priscilla Silva at 817-294-0350. She will direct you to a PTO representative.
15
Types of PTO Membership
Annual Membership
Grandparent Membership
Faculty Membership w/o students
Faculty with students
Life Membership (Any terms)
Patron Life Membership
$25.00 per family
$20.00
$ 5.00 per teacher
$15.00 per teacher
$200.00 contribution per family
$500.00 contribution per family
2016-2017 PTO Executive Board
President
Sue Iwanski
1st VP-Membership
Sheree Gallagher
nd
2 VP-Ways & Means
Cindy Hayes
rd
3 VP Programs
Amanada Pastusek
4th VP-Information
Katrina Martin
Secretary
Nicole DeBlois
Treasurer
Cari Walker
Parliamentarian
Daley Miller
Devotional
Dawn Holt
Parent Booster Club
The SCS administration and coaching staff prides itself on the school’s outstanding Eagle
athletic programs. We strive to maintain a quality, yet varied, athletic program that
provides unlimited opportunities for young men and women to excel on the playing field. It
is our belief that SCS can maximize the student’s athletic performance and enjoyment
through the provisions of competent and caring coaching staff, updated and extensive
playing facilities and training, and a competitive schedule designed to meet the students’
needs. The Booster Club of our school is an organization whose main purpose is to help
fund and support all athletics sponsored by SCS.
Membership is available for parents, grandparents, relatives, friends, and anyone who
wishes to be a part of the athletic program of the school. The Booster Club raises funds to
purchase equipment and supplies that are of immediate necessity to the athletic program
of the school. All monies from membership dues are used for these purposes. We need your
help and support and would be honored with your membership. If you have any questions,
or would like more detailed information, please contact Jamie Pritchett at 817-294-9596 x
227.
(For more information regarding corporate sponsorship, please contact any of the Booster
Club Officers.)
16
2016-2017 Booster Club Officers
President: Kathy Gear
Vice President: Rod Nelson
Secretary/Treasurer: Mike Holley
Merchandise Co-Chair: Cristal Galvan
Merchandise Co-Chair: Steve Tenery
Concessions: Doug Holman / Jennifer Buckner
Volunteer Co-Chair: Ryan Cowley
Volunteer Co-Chair: Ron Lott
Basic Membership
$ 100.00 (includes 2 All Sports passes for all home SCS
sporting events)
400.00 (front row reserved parking at field side tailgating
section and 2 All Sports passes for all home SCS sporting events)
100 .00 *Available on a “first come-first served” basis, does not
include all sports passes
Front Row Tailgate Crew
$
Reserved Parking Place*
$
Eagle Sponsorship
Family
Blue Eagle Sponsor
Gold Eagle Sponsor
Platinum Sponsor
Platinum Plus Sponsor
Eagle Game Changer
$ 500.00
$ 1,000.00
$ 1,500.00
$ 2,500.00
$ 5,000.00
$ 8,000.00
Contact Booster Club or see brochure for details regarding different sponsorship levels.
17
18
General Policies
Admissions, Application, and Fees
Interdenominational Statement
Southwest Christian School is an independent, interdenominational institution. We hold to
the inerrancy of scripture and believe that all who have placed their faith and trust in Jesus
Christ are saved. Southwest Christian teaches from a Biblical worldview. We are committed
to the educational process being a Christian partnership between families, churches and the
community. During the admission process, applicants and parents are asked to share
information regarding church affiliation as well as their faith traditions. This very important
information supports our efforts to get to know the applicants. It also assists parents in
understanding the Biblical framework of our programming.
Spiritual Philosophy
The focus of spiritual teaching and biblical integration centers upon major beliefs obtained
from the Bible as the Holy Scriptures and Word of God. We believe in the triune God
existing as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is the creator of the universe and all that
inhabits it. Humanity was uniquely created in the image of God giving them the ability to
create, communicate and evaluate. We believe that salvation comes through a faith in
Jesus as the Son of God and leads to a life of sacrificial love and service.
Admission Criteria
Southwest Christian School is committed to diversity and actively seeks students who can
contribute to the activities of the school and who will profit from a Christ-centered, college
preparatory education. Enrollment is open to all college bound students of any race, color,
nationality or ethnic origin who meet the entrance requirements, who agree to support the
mission statement of the school, and who strive both in conduct and achievement to
maintain satisfactory progress. Admission to SCS shall be determined by an entrance exam,
previous school records, recommendations, visit day (grades K-12 required), and a school
interview that includes parent(s) and the applicant.
Parental Expectations and Support
Student safety is a top priority at Southwest Christian School. We ask that parental actions,
while on campus or at school sponsored events, reflect and support the SCS Parent/Student
Handbook guidelines and core values. These guidelines include honoring restrictions on
alcohol and drug consumption, fire arms possession, inappropriate displays of affection and
fans behavior.
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Student Expectations
Students admitted to SCS must meet the following behavior standards: No expulsion,
suspension, or serious discipline problems in another school. Students should have no
history of behavior problems with law enforcement agencies, church youth groups or other
similar organizations. Failure to furnish information concerning behavior problems of any
kind is considered grounds for rejection or dismissal from school.
Students transferring to the school in grades 9-12 are required to have units of credit
corresponding to those offered at SCS. Applications may be filed throughout the year, but a
limited number of spaces per class make it advisable to apply during first round placements
in the spring prior to fall admission. Students who demonstrate academic ability,
preparation, acceptable conduct, and maturity consistent with the standards and purpose
of the school will be invited on an annual basis to continue their enrollment at Southwest
Christian School. All inquiries about admission should be directed to Paige Taff for
elementary campus and Libby Madison for preparatory campus.
Application Fee
Application to Southwest Christian School can be processed through the online portal on
our website, www.southwestchristian.org. Application Fee: $50.00 (non-refundable)
Admission Testing
Southwest Christian School requires that all applicants in grades K-12 be tested for
admission. Group testing dates are scheduled in February and March. Tests taken after
March must be scheduled with the Admissions Office. Testing Fee: $100.00 (nonrefundable)
Recommendations
Southwest Christian School requires the following recommendations from current teachers
be submitted for students applying:
Early Childhood 5 Day through 3rd grade
 One teacher evaluation from current core teacher.
Grades 4 through 12
 Two teacher evaluations required from English and Mathematics teachers.
 One Principal/Counselor evaluation required from the most appropriate
administrator.
School Records
All applicants grades 1-12 must arrange for an official copy of the student’s school records
to be sent directly to the Admissions Office. Also, the school requires a copy of the following
for all applicants:
1. Birth Certificate
2. Updated Immunization Record
3. Most recent report card (grades 1-12 applicants only)
4. Standardized test scores
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Interview
For grades K-6, parents and students interview with the elementary principal or appointed
representative.
Grades 7-12 parents and students interview with the grade level appointed representative.
Notification of Results
Applicants will be notified by mail of the results once the above criteria have been met.
Admission will be based on the criteria and space available.
Probation
All new students are admitted on a probationary status the first year of enrollment at
Southwest Christian School. They will then be re-evaluated each subsequent year for
continuing enrollment (see Re-enrollment criteria, pg. 23).
Health Requirements
Before a student may attend classes at SCS, he/she must submit a medically validated
Immunization Record verifying immunization history. Current guidelines used are
“Immunization Requirements for Children and Students in Texas Public and Private Schools,
2016-17”. All medications and dosages must be kept current with the school office.
Late Entry
Students enrolling after the beginning of the school year will be assessed tuition on a daily
pro-rata basis. Evaluation fees will be assessed in full (regardless of entry date).
Late Charge Fees
Accounts must be current at the end of each nine week grading period for grades to be
issued. In addition, accounts are subject to a $50.00 late fee if not paid on or before the
due date.
Insufficient/Returned Checks
A fee of $25.00 in addition to the amount of the check will be assessed for each returned
check.
Business Procedures
Tuition and fee payments are structured so that all balances should be paid in full by May
20th.
Procedures regarding unpaid financial obligations after this date are as follows:
1. Senior students may not be allowed to participate in graduation or receive their diploma.
2. Students will not be allowed to re-enroll for the next school year until outstanding tuition
is paid.
3. Student transcripts will be held until the tuition is paid in full.
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Withdrawal Procedure
The withdrawal process must begin by notification to Paige Taff at the elementary campus
or Libby Madison at the preparatory campus. Information will then be forwarded to the
Finance Office and a Statement of Account will be prepared. Before the withdrawal process
can be completed the following is required:
 Any tuition balance must be paid to the Finance Office. Withdrawals after June 1st will
be expected to honor the full contractual obligation for the entire school year.
 All textbooks must be returned to admissions in good condition.
 Any outstanding library books must be returned and late fees paid.
 Any other delinquent fees must be paid.
 All work must be up to date to receive current grades in each subject.
 Credit is given on a semester basis. Withdrawal during a semester will forfeit credit for
that semester.
An official withdrawal form must be completed and turned into the appropriate admissions
director before a request for records can be approved. The student withdrawing must have
been present at least four weeks of the current nine weeks to have a grade recorded for
those nine weeks. The signature of the Admissions Director will indicate approval to
withdraw upon completion of the above. Any family who does not comply with the above
procedures when attempting to withdraw from SCS will not receive school records.
Likewise, these records cannot be released to the next school in the event of noncompliance with the above. It will take two to three working days for school officials to
complete the withdrawal procedures. It is best to notify the school in writing of any plan to
withdraw well in advance (at least two weeks) of the anticipated date of withdrawal and
complete the required withdrawal form.
Note: Official school records and report cards will be issued only after all charges have been
paid in full and the student is released by the Finance Office and the Admissions Office.
Refund Policy on Withdrawals
If a student withdraws during the school year for any reason, parents are obligated for the
full amount of tuition and fees through the end of the school year. Contracts are binding
as of June 1st each year, and tuition will not be refunded. Registration fees are nonrefundable and any unpaid balances are due upon withdrawal.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available at SCS to qualified students on an as needed basis. Determination
of need is processed by FACTS Management: Grant and Aid Assessment. Monies awarded
come from the school operating budget. Current salary, net worth, and circumstances of
the parents or guardian are considered in determining the amount of financial aid. Financial
aid is granted on a one-year basis and all applicants must be evaluated each school year.
The student’s character, leadership, and academic potential are carefully considered. Any
student who receives financial aid must maintain a minimum 2.0 grade average and
exemplary behavioral standing.
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Parents interested in making applications for financial aid should apply no later than
November 1 for current families and April 1 for new families using the website link given on
the financial aid tab on the Southwest Christian website.
Re-enrollment Criteria
Once enrolled, students will be reviewed or evaluated by the following criteria before
approval of re-enrollment for the next school year:
1. Academic performance
2. Behavior and attitude
3. Attendance
4. Financial Status
A tuition deposit of 10% of tuition is required when applying for re-enrollment.
Re-enrollment applications cannot be processed until the tuition deposit is paid in full.
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Tuition Schedule
2016-2017 School Year
GRADE LEVEL
*TUITION
(DUE 6/1/16)
EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM
Three year-old Two Day Program (T/Thurs 8:15-2:45)
Four year-old Three Day Program (M/W/F 8:15-2:45)
Four/Five year-old Five Day Program (M-F 8:15-2:45)
$2,995
$4,510
$7,500
KINDERGARTEN
$11,800
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Grades 1-4
Grades 5-6
$13,200
$13,900
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Grades 7-8
$15,900
HIGH SCHOOL
Grades 9-12
$16,750
*Tuition amount listed is for payment in full by June 1.
Alternate payment options are semi-annual or monthly:
1.
Semi-annual payments will be assessed a 10% finance charge on the second
installment balance. Payments are due on June 1 and December 1.
2.
Monthly payments will be assessed a 10% finance charge on the entire balance.
Payments will be made by monthly automatic withdrawals through the FACTS
system.
Tuition Deposit
A tuition deposit is due at the time of acceptance and is non-refundable. This deposit will
be subtracted from the overall tuition amount and is not a separate fee. Tuition deposits
can be made by cash or check and are due with the original contract in order to guarantee
placement.
Tuition Deposit Amounts:
Early Childhood 2, 3 or 5 day program:
Grades Kindergarten through 12:
10% of tuition
10% of tuition
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Extended Day Program: Elementary Campus
The Extended Day Program has been designed to meet the needs of parents who require
childcare beyond normal school hours. This program is available to all full-day students at
the elementary campus from Early Childhood through sixth grade for an additional fee.
Before Care
Before care is available from 7:00 until 8:00 a.m. A light breakfast is available.
After Care
The Early-After Care Program begins at 2:45 p.m. for Early Childhood. After Care is available
from 3:45-6:00 p.m. for all full day students. Snacks are provided.
Early Release Days
Extended Care is available from Early Dismissal at 11:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. on most Early
Release days. Exceptions include the following days: Grandparents’ Day, the day before
Christmas break, and the last day of school.
Fees
The Extended Day Program is set up as a pre-paid system and are billed per semester. Fees
are based on an average rate per month. Using the existing fee structure, short months and
vacations are figured in.
A registration fee is not required; however, your student must have a registration form on
file and payment arrangements made in advance. As with tuition, these fees may be paid
annually, semi-annually or monthly. If paying monthly, fees will be paid through FACTS
Tuition Management, Inc.
All students should be picked up no later than 6:00 p.m. The last pick up time without
penalty is 6:00 p.m. Please call 817-294-0350, Ext. 125, if you are running late. A fee of $10
for the first 5 minutes and $1 per minute thereafter will be assessed for late pickups. Each
family will receive a one-time “Grace Card” at the beginning of the school year.
Extended Day Rates
Before Care ONLY (7:00-8:00 a.m.)
* 5 days per week - $1,200 per year
* 3 days per week (EC only) - $750 per year
Early After Care ONLY (2:45-3:45 p.m.)
* 5 day EC - $500 per year
* 3 day EC - $300 per year
After Care ONLY (3:45-6:00)
* 5 days per week - $1,800 per year
* 3 days (EC only) - $1,100 per year
Combo Package (includes Before and After Care)
* 5 days per week - $3,000 per year
* 3 days (EC only) - $1,850 per year
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Drop-Ins
Pre-paid drop-in rate: $10/hour (pre-paid in $100 increments)
Drop-ins are required to pay a minimum of $100 by August 1st to register. This $100 will go
toward the first 10 hours. Payments must be made in advance. Any student with an
overdue balance will be asked to find alternative arrangements until payments are current.
Please give at least 24 hours notice in attending or cancellations by emailing
[email protected] or by calling 817-294-0350, Ext. 125.
Contact: Molly Stavenhagen
[email protected] or 817-294-0350, Ext. 125
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General Information
Field Trips
A parent must sign a Consent Form and an Appointment of Agent form before any SCS
student may participate in a field trip. Parents must supply names of three persons to
contact in case of an emergency situation. One (1) of each form per child per year will be
required; advance notice with information specific to each trip will be sent home prior to
any school travel. Trips that require students to drive or ride with another student will
require specific parental permission.
Prep: Due to the logistical problems inherent in planning, scheduling, and supervising field
trips, extra people (parents, siblings, and visitors) will not be permitted to accompany the
school groups on these trips. Please do not request exceptions.
Elem: Students will ride school buses for all field trips. Parents are invited to come on many
field trips; however, due to supervision responsibilities, siblings are not allowed. Parents
attending elementary field trips must drive their own cars due to space issues on the buses.
You may transport your own child to and from field trips if you prefer. You may not
transport any child other than your own, unless that child’s parent is riding with you.
Travel
Any student who travels while representing Southwest Christian School competitively or
while participating in a field trip will be subject to the following regulations and procedures:
 Written parental permission must be granted for such travel. (See section entitled “Field
Trips” for additional information.)
 The purchase of all meals will be the responsibility of each individual student.
 School personnel will arrange housing for overnight trips. In the event that housing in
homes is not available or practical, hotel/lodging expenses will be the responsibility of
each student.
 The school will arrange transportation for class field trips.
 Parent volunteers may be required for student transportation to athletic competitions.
Whenever possible, all vehicles will be driven by school personnel, parent volunteers or
drivers appointed by a selected transportation company.
 Students must return with the group unless advance arrangements are made with the
sponsor for the student to return with his/her parents.
 All policies relating to student conduct are applicable while traveling with the school.
Scheduled Trips
Scheduled trips are planned to coincide with academic studies. Additional funds are
needed to cover expenses for such events and are not included in the regular tuition or
fees. The parents of those students involved must supply these funds. Classes will not be
held for students who do not participate in these events. Students or their parents must
27
make an appointment with the principal well in advance to review any request for being
excused from a school trip.
 4 graders are scheduled for a one-day trip to Camp Thurman and a 1 day trip to Austin,
6:00 a.m.-8:30 p.m..
 5 graders are scheduled to go for a 3-day science trip to Allasso Ranch
 6 graders are scheduled to go to Sky Ranch in Van, Texas for 3 days of leadership
training
 7th graders go to Williamsburg, Virginia and Washington, D.C.
 8th graders go to Orlando, Florida
 High school students may participate in optional minimester trips
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th
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School Closings – Inclement Weather Procedure
In the event of inclement weather, SCS families and personnel will be notified via text
message regarding campus closings or delayed openings. The home page of the SCS website
will also provide details regarding campus closings or delayed openings. Notification will be
made in a timely fashion after road and campus safety assessments have been made.
As always, the well-being of our families and employees is paramount.
School Facilities and Property
The school’s physical facilities and property (buildings, grounds, equipment, and vehicles)
are private property controlled by the school and acquired solely to further the school
mission and objectives of SCS. Use of the physical facilities and property for purposes not
consistent with the mission is not authorized and exposes the school to liability and expense
not contemplated.
School facilities may be available for rent by outside groups on a selective basis. All users
must meet certain requirements as outlined in SCS’s Facilities Use Policy and complete a
Facilities Use Agreement. For information, please contact the Middle School Principal’s
office at the preparatory campus or the Finance Office at the elementary campus.
Activities and Events (Master) Calendar
The official school Activities and Events Calendar will be maintained in the administrative
office at the appropriate campus. All requests for calendar reservations should be
addressed through the proper supervisor (Principal, PTO President, Athletic Director, etc.).
This will ensure that activities are not scheduled in conflict.
Telephone Usage
The SCS phone system is for business purposes only. It is not for student use except in cases
of extreme emergency and then by permission only. A student must obtain permission from
his or her teacher before requesting to use the school telephone. School phones should not
be used for long-distance calls except for operational purposes by authorized school
personnel.
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Messages and Parent Communication
Only urgent or emergency messages may be relayed to students or staff through the school
office. Students will not be permitted to leave classes for a message unless it is a genuine
emergency. Students may not use the telephone without a pass from their teacher and use
of the telephone is limited to emergencies only.
Telephone/Texting & Email Communication with Students
Employees are prohibited from sending or responding to private text messages from
students. Employees who coach athletics or lead organized groups that meet outside
of regular school hours may text student groups with the following guidelines:
 Text messages must be sent to a group of students (3 or more) and never to
an individual.
 Employees will always include an assistant, supervisor, or a colleague on the
message.
 When possible, a student assistant such as a team captain will send the
message to the group.
 Under no circumstances should a student expect an employee to respond to
a private text message or a voice mail from a student.
Employees must use an SCS email address when sending an email to a student.
Generally, parents, along with a supervisor or a colleague, will be copied on emails
to students. Emails between employees and students must always be related to
school business and should never be personal in nature. Employees who do not have
a southwestchristian.org email account must send email messages using RenWeb.
Social Networking Policy
Social networking is allowed between teachers and students only on SCS approved
networking sites that have been set up for the classroom or school organization with a
specific, academic purpose in mind. All sites must be approved and reviewed by the
teacher’s supervising administrator. All exchanges on the site will be academic in nature,
content and in use of language. Teachers are responsible for monitoring students’ use of
the site and for teaching concepts of digital citizenship to their students. All SCS approved
networking sites will be designated as private and will not be available for open public view.
Employees are prohibited from friending and/or accepting friend requests from current
students. Employees are prohibited from posting anything on a social site of a current
student unless the employee is the parent or guardian of that student. Employees are
allowed to accept social network friend requests from alumnae who are 18 years of age or
older.
29
Written Communication
Written communication from school, such as notes, newsletters, certificates, report cards,
progress reports, etc., will be sent home with the student to his/her legal guardian. The
school does not assume responsibility for duplicate or additional copies for other interested
parties. Such information must be obtained from the student’s legal guardian. Prep
campus communication with parents will be via e-mail.
Campus Visitors
All visitors must go to the office on either campus and present a driver’s license to receive a
visitor’s badge. SCS campuses are considered “closed” campuses to visitors; however, the
following exceptions apply once a visitor badge has been obtained:
 Students may be visited by parents during the day. Parents must visit the office first to
obtain a visitor’s badge.
 Lunchtime visitors on the prep campus may include SCS graduates, parents or siblings of
current students, and youth ministers; however, these visitors are not allowed in the
hallways or classrooms during the school day.
For liability and security reasons, no other visitors will be allowed on campus. Please
contact the principal if you have a visitor request outside of these guidelines.
Conferences and School Visitation
We are delighted to have parents and patrons visit the school. Arrangements can be made
through the office. All visitors must sign in at the reception desk and receive a name tag
generated by the school’s visitor security database.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences are encouraged. Parents may arrange for conferences on an
individual basis by either contacting the teacher or coach with whom they wish to meet or
by group conferences which may by arranged by the principal or counselor. Additionally,
parent-teacher conferences are built into the school calendar twice during the academic
year. Conferences can include such topics as work habits, potential, achievement, class
expectations, grade level adjustment, and social adjustment.
Principal Administrative Conferences
The school administrators fulfill a vital role in the daily operations of the school including
the support of and supervision of students and teachers. At the same time, administrators
want to be available to parents as needed. Please feel free to schedule conferences with
administrators through the office assistants. Please see Page 85 for grievance process.
Volunteer Policy
SCS enjoys an extremely committed volunteer base with a large majority of the parents
representing their children in service to various school programs. New parents may refer to
the Volunteer Information Form found in the Parent Orientation folder. You will be given a
chance to serve in the area in which you express an interest on this form. We also request
that SCS volunteers sign in at the school office each day and receive a background clearance
and volunteer badge to wear while serving our school. For the protection of our students,
30
every volunteer is required to undergo a criminal background check prior to volunteering.
These screenings must be repeated every year.
Emergency Information
Because the school must occasionally contact parents due to an emergency or illness, it is
imperative that parents maintain up-to-date information in ParentsWeb with any family
information changes (name, address, home, cell, or office phone number, email addresses
etc.). Parents must provide the school with emergency contact information, input via
ParentsWeb, for emergency situations, should a parent be unavailable.
The first priority in an emergency situation, such as injury to a student, is to address the
medical and/or emotional needs of the student. The school will promptly notify parents (or
those listed as Emergency Contacts) to be advised of the situation.
Southwest Christian School Medical Guidelines
The SCS Nurses’ Clinic supports the school’s mission statement by promoting the physical
and emotional health of students and staff. The clinic promotes health through education,
disease prevention, early case findings, referral for intervention, and remediation of specific
health problems. School health services are vital to the provision of first aid and triage for
illness and injuries, direct services for students with special needs, and health counseling
and education for students, staff, and parents.
The Nurses’ Clinic is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (elementary) 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
on regular school days. As discussed below, students should not be sent to school ill or
expected to take morning medication dosages at school. For illnesses and accidents that
occur outside of school hours or off campus, students should see their primary care doctor.
Immunizations
Students are required to have the immunization record on file and up-to-date by the
beginning of each school year. Students whose records remain missing or incomplete four
weeks after the start of school or after they enroll will not be allowed to continue attending
classes until the record is complete and on file. Students who need updated immunizations
during the school year will have four weeks to receive them. The student will not be
allowed to attend classes until the record is updated and on file. Please consult with the
school nurse or your doctor if you are unaware of your child’s immunization due dates.
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Texas Minimum Vaccine Requirements for Students
Grades K - 12
The following summarizes the vaccine requirements incorporated in Title 25 Health
Services, §§97.61-97.72 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC).
Health Requirements GRADES K-12
Before a student may attend classes at Southwest Christian School, he/she must submit a
medically validated Immunization Record verifying immunization history as follows:
2016-17 Texas Minimum State Vaccine Requirements for Students
This chart summarizes the vaccine requirements incorporated in Title 25 Health Services,
§§97.61-97.72 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC).
This chart is not intended as a substitute for consulting the TAC, which has other provisions
and details. The Department of State Health Services is granted authority to set
immunization requirements by the Education Code, Chapter 38, Health & Safety,
Subchapter A, General Provisions.
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IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS
A student shall show acceptable evidence of vaccination prior to entry, attendance, or transfer to a
childcare facility or public Elementary or Secondary school in Texas.
Vaccine
Kindergarten
7th grade
8th-12th grade
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and
Pertussis1
(DTaP/DTP/DT/Td/Tdap)
5 doses or 4
doses2
3 doses3 1
Tdap/Td
booster4
Polio1, 6
4 doses or 3
doses
2 doses
4 doses or 3
doses
2 doses7
3 doses3 1
Tdap/Td
booster within
last 10 years5
4 doses or 3
doses
2 doses7
3 doses
2 doses
3 doses
2 doses
1 dose
3 doses
1 dose9
1 does
Measles, Mumps, and
Rubella1, 7, 11 (MMR)
Hepatitis B1, 8, 11
Varicella1, 9, 11, 12
Meningococcal1
Hepatitis A1, 10, 11
2 doses
Footnotes 1 Receipt of the dose up to (and including) 4 days before the birthday will satisfy the
school entry immunization requirement. 2 Five doses of a diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis containing
vaccine, one of which must have been received on or after the 4th birthday; however, 4 doses meet
the requirement if the 4th dose was given on or after the 4th birthday. 3 Three doses, including one
dose on or after the 4th birthday. 4 Students will be required to have a booster dose of Tdap only if
it has been five years since their last dose of tetanus-containing vaccine. Td is acceptable in lieu of
Tdap if a contraindication to pertussis exists. 5 Students will be required to have a booster dose of
Tdap if it has been ten years since their previous dose of tetanus-containing vaccine. Td is
acceptable in lieu of Tdap if a contraindication to pertussis exists. 6 Four doses of polio vaccine one
of which must have been received on or after the 4th birthday; however, 3 doses meet the
requirement if the 3rd dose was given on or after the 4th birthday. 7 Two doses of MMR vaccine
with the 1st dose on or after the 1st birthday. For the 2009 - 2010 school year, 7th - 12th grade
students are required to have two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, and one dose each of
mumps and rubella vaccine. Refer to the phase-in schedule to determine when the 2-dose MMR
requirement goes into effect for 7th - 12th grade. 8 Two doses of adult hepatitis B vaccine
(Recombivax®) are acceptable for individuals 11 - 15 years of age. Dosage and type of vaccine must
be clearly documented. (Two 10 mcg/1.0 ml of Recombivax®) 9 Two doses received on or after the
1st birthday. Refer to the phase-in schedule to determine when the 2-dose varicella requirement
goes into effect for 8th-12th grade. 10 Two doses with the 1st dose received on or after the 1st
birthday. 11 Serologic confirmation of immunity to measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, hepatitis A,
or varicella or serologic evidence of infection is acceptable in lieu of vaccine. 12 Previous illness may
be documented with a written statement from a physician, school nurse, or the child’s parent or
guardian containing wording such as: “This is to verify that (name of student) had varicella disease
(chickenpox) on or about (date) and does not need varicella vaccine.”
33
Illness
Keep your student at home when he or she:
 has a temperature of 100 degrees or higher.
 is vomiting or has diarrhea.
 has a rash of unknown origin.
 have red, runny eyes or wakes with eyes matted shut.
 has thick yellow or green discharge from nose.
Your student may return when he or she:
 is fever free for 24 hours without the use of Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
 is free of diarrhea and vomiting for 24 hours.
 has been treated by a health care professional regarding rashes, ear pain, nasal
discharge or eyes.
Note:
 Students with fever greater than 100, rash or red eyes will be sent home from
school.
 Please be alert to such symptoms as upset stomach, runny nose, fever, or sore
throat as they may indicate serious illness.
 A student who acquires head lice may not return to school until he or she has
received treatment.
If a child is sent home with symptoms of a possible contagious condition and the child’s
physician states that the condition is not of a contagious nature, the child may return to
school with a written statement from the doctor.
Medication Administration Policy
“Medication” is defined as prescription or non-prescription drugs and includes but is not
limited to analgesics, antipyretics, antacids, antibiotic ointment, antihistamines,
decongestants, and cough/cold preparations.
The school nurse or other designated personnel shall administer all medication to the
student as in a manner compliant with current legislation guidelines. If the school nurse is
not available to administer medication, an authorized person who has been trained
according to state guidelines may administer medication to students, provided they have
been trained.
Employees authorized by the Nurse’s Clinic Policy to administer medication to students shall
include principals, classroom teachers, educational assistants, secretaries or any classified
personnel employed by the school.
Whenever possible, it is best for all medication to be given at home. Usually, medication
dosages can be arranged so that a child will not need to take more than one dose during
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school hours. The initial dose of a medication is to be administered at home, doctor’s office
or hospital. Sample prescription medication must be labeled with the child’s name and
accompanied by a signed physician’s order.
Herbal substances or dietary supplements provided by the parent will not be administered
by school personnel. However, the parent may administer herbal medication if needed.
Medications will not be supplied by the school and will only be administered if brought from
home with specific written directions from the parent or doctor (see Medication Permit
Form.) A few standard, over-the-counter medications will be available (Tylenol, Advil,
Tums) in the rare occurrence that a student might need medication not provided by home
and will be given at the school nurse’s discretion. Medicine not taken home at the end of
the school year will be discarded.
It is the basic responsibility of the child to remember his or her medication. The child’s
teacher or the nurse can remind the child until a routine can be established. If the child
misses two (2) or more scheduled doses of medication, the parents will be notified and
appropriate action taken as directed.
Parents of students with special circumstances or chronic illnesses should discuss the child’s
health routine with the school nurse so that the school can provide sufficient support for
the child’s health and well-being.
Medication Permit/Physician Orders
All medication should be given outside of school hours, if possible. Only medication that is
required to enable a student to stay in school may be given at school. The initial dose of
medication must be administered at home, doctor’s office, or hospital. If necessary,
medication can be given at school under the following conditions:
1. All medication (prescription and over-the-counter) must be:
a. provided by the parent.
b. transported by an adult if it is a controlled substance such as Ritalin. The
medicine will be counted upon its arrival in the nurse’s office.
c. in its original, properly labeled container. The pharmacy can supply two labeled
bottles for this purpose – one for school and one for home. An extra bottle is
required if medication is to be administered on a field trip. Medication sent in
baggies on non-properly labeled containers will not be accepted or given.
d. accompanied by a specific written request signed by the parent/guardian (see
below). The prescription medication form must be complete with a physician
signature. (A copy of the prescription with the physician signature may also be
used.)
e. placed in a locked cabinet in the nurse’s office
(Exception: a student whose doctor considers them sufficiently responsible
and has signed a request for them to carry an inhaler or anaphylaxis
medication on their person. In either case, the student must demonstrate to
the nurse competent use of the devices. For asthma medication, it is
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recommended that another inhaler be kept locked in the nurse’s office. The
school nurse will inform the principal and other appropriate staff members. If
a student allows another person to use his or her medication, the privilege
will be revoked.
f. administered by a school nurse or by a non-health professional designated by the
principal or school nurse.
2. Sample prescription must be labeled with the child’s name and accompanied by a signed
Texas Board Certified physician’s order.
Herbal substances or dietary supplements will not be administered by school personnel.
3. Southwest Christian School can assume no responsibility for loss or negligent behavior
when the student carries his/her conventional or alternative medication or dietary
supplement without the knowledge of the nurse. Non-compliance may subject the student
to disciplinary action.
4. Only authorized school personnel may administer topical medication to a student as part
of first aid protocol.
5. The school nurse must be consulted if the student requires long-term medication
(including asthma and anaphylactic allergy), any health care procedure, or monitoring. In
the event of a life-threatening allergic reaction, emergency procedures will be followed as
outlined in SCS Anaphylaxis Protocol.
Food/Drink/Gum
Students are not permitted to bring food or drink into the classroom except on designated
days during lunch. Gum or candy is not permitted in academic buildings. Small pieces of
hard candy, such as peppermints, are allowed if the teacher permits them.
Concessions
The principal will appoint (when needed) concessionaires for all SCS activities. The principal
must approve all concession products to be sold, and holds the authority to prohibit the
sale of items he/she feels are detrimental to the good of the school. Under no
circumstances will the sale of tobacco or alcoholic beverages be allowed on school
property.
Pets
No pets may be brought to school property unless permission has been granted in advance.
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School Pictures
Individual school pictures are taken each year for high school students at the back-to-school
fair. Elementary students’ pictures will be taken at the beginning of the school year.
Students are in uniform for their pictures. The purchase of these pictures is optional.
Liability
SCS assumes no liability for accidental injury, which may occur during the normal conduct of
school activities or during the transportation of students to and from these activities.
Responsibility for medical payments will rest with the parent or legal guardian. Southwest
Christian School is not responsible for any items belonging to students that are lost or
damaged while at SCS or during school trips.
Fire and other Safety Drills
Fire drills, lock-down drills, and severe weather drills will be conducted periodically.
Students setting off false alarms (regardless of reason and/or result) will be assessed a
minimum charge of $200.
Lockers
All elementary students in grades 1-6 will be given a locker. No locks are permitted. Contact
paper, tape, foam tape and/or other adhesives are prohibited. Lockers, in 1 st-6th grades,
are to be used for daily storage of lunch kits, coats and backpacks and some books. They
are not to become a distraction for a student or others and must be organized, neat and
void of food not eaten. Rolling backpacks are not a good fit. A student’s locker privilege
may be removed at the discretion of the teacher or other school administration.
Each preparatory school student at SCS will be assigned a locker for his/her use only.
Students at the prep campus may request a lock to be furnished by the school for use on
their locker. No other type of lock will be permitted. Only the student and the
administration know the combination of the lock. The administration reserves the right to
examine the contents of any student’s locker at any time. Lockers should be kept neat and
clean at all times. Any damage which occurs to the locker will be assessed to the assigned
student unless resolutions of the problem can be found. Students have no cause for
complaint if items are lost from an unlocked locker.
Note: Lost locks must be replaced at a cost of $15 each.
Backpacks
Due to fire safety regulations, students are required to keep their backpacks in their lockers
during the school day. Students are encouraged to consider the size of their lockers when
making backpack selections, and rolling backpacks do not fit in lockers. Students may carry
a small book satchel into class.
Lost and Found
Lost and found items may be located by the gym. Unclaimed items will be discarded,
donated to charity, or sold.
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Academic Program
Curriculum
All students completing the Southwest Christian School balanced curriculum will have
mastered the skills of effective oral and written English communication, college preparatory
training in science, mathematics, social studies, biblical studies, fine arts and in a language
other than English. Students will have acquired practice in analyzing issues and ideas from a
Christian world view in order to reach conclusions and build a solid foundation for
understanding the social, political, economic, and physiological issues of their lives.
High school classes offer advanced levels of study in each of the major content areas.
Students are encouraged to select courses that will support their goals and best prepare
them for the colleges of their choice. The Southwest Christian School Curriculum Guide
provides detailed course descriptions. The Department of Guidance and Student Services
provides personal counseling to students as they select and complete their degree plans.
Student Performance Evaluation and Grading System
Southwest Christian School recognizes and supports the essential role of parents in the
academic progress and success of their children. Parents are provided with formal
academic and behavior reports and conferencing opportunities throughout the year.
Progress Reports/Work Ethic (Elementary) Reports
Progress Reports are emailed on the preparatory campus at the mid-point of each quarter.
Students on the elementary campus, who are experiencing difficulty, will receive
Progress/Work Ethic Reports at the mid-point of each quarter via e-mail. The purpose of
Progress Reports/Work Ethic Reports is to provide parents with updates on student
academic and behavior performance.
Report Cards
Report cards are issued quarterly. They are sent out one week after grades close. Prep
campus report cards will be emailed and posted on RenWeb. Elementary report cards will
be emailed; a hard copy may also be sent home. All financial accounts must be current at
the end of each reporting period for grades to be received.
Academic Probation
A student who receives two or more failing grades at the end of the semester is placed on
academic probation. Parents will receive notification and a conference with the classroom
teachers is recommended. Continued failure will result in a review by administration,
teachers, and parents to determine the next steps and interventions for the student.
Learning Lab
The Learning Lab is available for students with diagnosed learning differences and/or ADHD
who require extra support for successful completion of the curriculum. An additional fee
applies for Learning Lab services. Interested parents should contact their child’s guidance
counselor.
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Elementary Campus
General Information
Hours of Operation
Early Childhood Hours
Kindergarten Hours
Elementary School Hours-1st-6th
Preparatory Middle School Hours
Preparatory High School Hours
8:15 a.m. –
8:15 a.m. –
8:15 a.m. –
8:35 a.m. –
8:35 a.m. –
2:45 p.m.
3:45 p.m.
3:45 p.m.
4:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m.
Building Entry and Exit
Students, parents, and visitors should enter and exit the school building through the main
entrance in the front of the buildings. The administrative offices are immediately inside the
front doors. All visitors must go to the office on either campus and present a driver’s
license to receive a visitor’s badge.
Parking and Traffic Regulations
Drop off and pick up are located at the back of the campus; therefore, cars can enter the
campus through the north gate (stone entrance) and exit through the south gate (black iron
gate). The automatic exit gate closes at 8:45 a.m. Early childhood, kindergarten, 1st and 2nd
grade students are dropped off at the second drop off point (behind the Owen Building and
playground), and cars will need to be in the right lane.
Students in grades 3 through 6 will be dropped off behind the cafeteria on the north side of
the elementary building (at the blue square). Therefore, cars will need to be in the right
traffic lane. Approaching the back of the cafeteria, the right lane will be used for student
drop off, and the left lane will be for continuing to the back of the campus for EC,
kindergarten, first and second grade drop-off and exiting the campus.
If parents prefer to walk their children in, many parking spots will be available at the back of
the building and at the front main entrance. Crosswalks will be clearly marked. If you park
at the back of the campus, you may reach the front foyer through the Cervas Veranda. After
the tardy bell rings at 8:15 a.m., the only entrance to the building is through the front
entrance or from the back of the campus through the veranda.
School Supplies
The PTO offers an opportunity to currently enrolled elementary students to obtain their
school supplies prepackaged for the following year. Orders and payments for these supplies
are taken April through May for delivery in August.
Official school supply lists for each grade are supplied to all students before Parent
Orientation and the beginning of school. If you did not order your school supplies through
PTO, a list of supplies is available in the school office. The school does not stock school
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supplies for resale; therefore, each student must have all of the supplies on the official list
before the first day of school.
Lunch Program
Menus are published weekly in the SCS Eagle Notes, and are provided by the catering
company monthly. Students may bring lunches or purchase lunches from the lunchroom.
Payment for lunches is made through ParentsWeb. Elementary students order lunches a
day in advance and cannot change the order the following day.
Attendance
Early Childhood and elementary students should not be left at school earlier than 8:00
a.m. unless enrolled in the Before School Care Program. The doors will be locked until 8:00
a.m. The teachers on duty will open doors at 8:00 a.m. Students are not to be in locker
areas or classrooms before that time. Doors will be locked at 8:15 a.m. Any students
arriving after that time will need to enter through the front entrance. (See Tardies) Note:
Students may NOT be dropped off at the front entrance. This entrance is for parking and
walking in only.
Students in grades K-6 are dismissed at 3:45 p.m. School policy requires that dismissed
students not enrolled in after school programs are to be picked up by 4:15 p.m., no later
than 30 minutes after their class is out. Our faculty and secretarial workloads do not allow
us to insure proper care of your child outside of school hours. At 4:15 p.m., the student will
be sent/taken to after school care and charged at the drop-in rate.
Tardies
The school regards punctuality as essential to the successful operation of the learning
environment. Tardiness causes distractions and interruptions for students and teachers.
Persistent tardiness either to school or to individual classes will be addressed. Tardiness to
school for any reason requires a tardy pass to class. Parents are encouraged to avoid
subjecting students to discipline which results from tardiness.
Any student arriving for school after 8:15 a.m. should be accompanied by parent or bring a
written excuse signed by the parent explaining the tardiness. If the student does not have a
note from a parent, a parent will be contacted. The note must include the following
information: date of tardiness, reason for tardiness, and the signature of the parent or
guardian. Note: After 8:15 a.m. only the main front entrance will be open.
Notes for Absences
When a student cannot attend school, it is the parent’s responsibility to notify the office to
report an absence. Notification by email is preferred.
Elementary: [email protected]
Preparatory: [email protected]
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On returning to school, the student must bring a note signed by his/her parent. This excuse
needs to state the number of days missed, the dates, the reason for absence, and signature
of parent or physician. If the absence is five (5) consecutive days due to illness, the student
is required to bring a doctor’s release to return to school. On the elementary campus this
written excuse is presented to the classroom teacher who in turn submits it with the
attendance records to the school office. For grades 7–12 the excuses are turned in to the
office prior to the beginning of school. The student will be issued an admit slip back to class.
School Notification of Parents Regarding Absences
1. Parents will be notified of each absence via RenWeb.
2. Elementary Campus: Eight absences per semester is the maximum number allowed. If
a student exceeds the allowed absences, the parents must meet with administration to
determine the best placement for the following year.
Behavior Standards and Expectations
Discipline Practices
The elementary campus uses the Love and Logic Program, a philosophy that emphasizes
student personal responsibility, fairness, consistency, and Christian principles.
A clearly defined set of classroom rules is established at the beginning of school for each
classroom. Students are an integral part of establishing the class plan. The disciplinary
consequences and positive reinforcements are determined. These are all clearly posted in
the classroom and sent home to parents. Parents return a portion of the form
acknowledging that the plan has been read. Discipline plans are reviewed periodically for
effectiveness and adjusted as needed. When it becomes necessary for a student to be
referred to the principal’s office for disciplinary consideration, a parent will receive a copy
of the disciplinary referral notice, a telephone call or an e-mail notification sent through
RenWeb. Written referral notices are to be signed by the parent and returned to the
school.
General Rules of Conduct
1.
Attending SCS should be considered a privilege. Every attempt to take advantage of
all its benefits should be the priority of every student and to do that, general rules of
good conduct and social behavior must be followed. Good behavior is a must, both
at school and at any school-sponsored function. Young people are expected to act as
ladies and gentlemen.
2.
All school rules apply on all field trips and on all school-sponsored events on the
school campus and away from the campus.
3.
Knives, firearms, or any other implements designed to be used as weapons are
strictly prohibited from SCS buildings, grounds, and vehicles parked on campus.
Possession of such implements can result in student suspension or expulsion and
possible criminal prosecution.
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4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
The use of tobacco, intoxicants, and drugs is prohibited. The use or the possession of
any of these can result in suspension or dismissal from school.
Chewing gum will not be allowed at SCS. Food and drinks are not allowed in
classrooms without special permission. A $3.00 fine will be assessed to a student not
following this policy. Some teachers may permit hard candy.
The use of obscenities, profanity or vulgarity will require disciplinary action.
Gambling in any form is prohibited.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly and respectful manner in
the halls and on school grounds.
Public display of affection on campus will not be allowed. Students will follow a strict
“keep your hands to yourself” policy, which includes: no rough housing, no public
display of affection, no tripping, pushing, etc.
Proper care of all school property is the responsibility of everyone. We must all do
our part to keep the buildings attractive and make the utmost use of all the facilities.
Any students known to deface or destroy property will be assessed the full cost of
repairs and be subject to possible severe disciplinary action.
It is expected that students will adhere to general standards of order by cleaning up
all areas (i.e., classrooms, grounds, gymnasium, lunch table, buses, etc.) following
student activities. Failure to do so could result in loss of privileges. Sponsors are to
supervise clean-up.
Since safety is of utmost importance, students are required to be accompanied and
supervised by an administrator, teacher, coach, or school endorsed sponsor when
utilizing SCS facilities. Students not authorized to be on campus before or after
regular school hours will be in violation of school regulations and will be considered
trespassing.
Student Harassment and Hazing Policy
SCS at all times is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment free of
harassment and intimidation; therefore, harassment of or by a board member, parent,
volunteer, administrator, faculty member, staff member, student or guest is strictly
forbidden. Harassment can include, but is not limited to the following:
 An unwanted physical advance or verbal approach.
 Unwanted reference to one’s physical appearance, religion, race, color, creed, sex, or
ethnic origin.
 Unwanted physical contact.
 Implicit or explicit threats against one’s academic safety or security.
 Unsolicited gestures or comments.
Registering a Complaint: Any student who believes he or she has been the victim of
harassment is encouraged to report and discuss the alleged act immediately to the principal
and to a parent. A conference will be scheduled immediately to determine the best course
of action.
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Cell Phones/Electronic Devices
Using, displaying, or having in audible operational mode, a cell phone, paging device, mp3
player, handheld gaming device or other telecommunications device at school during the
school day is prohibited. Such devices, unless sanctioned by the teacher for academic use,
are distracting and disruptive in the learning environment. Electronic devices are not
allowed in Before or After Care at the elementary campus. They are also prohibited on class
trips. Elementary-Special rules concerning cell phones: Cell phones must remain in
backpacks and in lockers, turned off, until dismissal time. After 3:45 p.m., students may use
cell phones if necessary to make arrangements for pick-up. Students are not allowed to
display or use them during school hours on either campus. Items will be confiscated and
sent to the Dean of Students on the prep campus and charged a $25 fine to retrieve each
item. On the elementary campus, no fee is charged; however, a parent must retrieve each
confiscated item from the assistant principal.
Elementary School Uniform Policy
Uniforms must be purchased and monogrammed at Academy Uniforms UTW at
5917 Helmick, 817-292-5437, or Parker School Uniforms at1125 Oakland Blvd, 817-429-9969
Campus
ELEMENTARY - Girls
Tops
Bottoms
In-School Outerwear
Uniform
2016-2017
Oxford style shirt (blue or white; short
or long sleeved)
Piped blouse (white with navy piping;
short or long sleeved)
White long or short sleeved polo
Poplin blouse (white, ¾ length sleeve) All
white Peter Pan collared blouse. White
polo shirt, short or long sleeve, logo
required.
Pants (navy; flat or pleated)
Shorts (navy; flat or pleated)
Jumper (plaid)*
Skort (plaid)
Skirt (plaid) Grades 4-6 only*
*Dark modesty shorts required
underneath
Sweatshirt (gray) Logo required.
V-neck long sleeved sweater (navy; SCS
logo)
V-neck sweater vest (navy; SCS logo)
Cardigan sweater (navy; SCS logo)
Micro-fiber fleece (navy; SCS logo)
Charles River jacket (navy, SCS logo)
Solid Navy jacket or coat (may be any
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Campus
Leggings/socks/shoes
accessories
ELEMENTARY
Boys
Tops
Uniform
2016-2017
brand; may not have any logos or
markings larger than 2” x 2”
Ankle or knee high socks, or no-show,
tights, or leggings (SOLID ONLY navy,
black, gray ,or white) no accent markings
or logos on socks or tights
Shoes predominately black, white, navy
or gray (no boots) OR Athletic Tennis
shoes (no lights, glitter, sounds)
(required on PE days)
Leather belt (brown or black; braided or
flat)
Oxford Shirt (light blue or white) *
Polo (light blue or white)* Logo required
on Polo shirts
*Long or short sleeved
Bottoms
Pants (navy; flat or pleated)
Shorts (navy; flat or pleated)
In-School Outerwear
Sweatshirt (gray) Logo required
V-neck long sleeved sweater (navy; SCS
logo)
V-neck sweater vest (navy; SCS logo)
Cardigan sweater (navy; SCS logo)
Micro-fiber fleece (navy; SCS logo)
Charles River jacket (navy, SCS logo)
Solid Navy jacket or coat (may be any
brand; may not have any logos or
markings larger than 2” x 2”)
Socks (solid navy, black, or white)ankle
or no-show
Shoes predominately black, white, navy
or gray. Laces-solid black, white, gray, or
navy. Athletic Tennis shoes (no lights,
glitter, sounds) (required on PE days)
Solid brown or black leather/leather-like
on non PE days (no boots)
Leather belt (brown or black; braided or
flat)
Belt/socks/shoes/tie
ELEMENTARY
Boys and Girls
Embroidery
School Logo
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General Guidelines for Elementary Campus

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
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






Dresses and skirts should not exceed 3” above the knee.
No excessively tight clothing.
No torn or frayed edges or holes.
Solid white, navy, gray, or black socks are required when appropriate. Multi colored,
patterned or socks with logos are not allowed.
Shirts with tails must be long enough to tuck in front and back and must remain tucked
in at all times.
Hair must be neatly groomed and naturally colored.
Boys’ hair must be above the collar, no facial hair, no sideburns below the ears, and hair
should not hang in eyes.
Jewelry and makeup should not be distracting, ear piercing allowed for girls only.
Nail polish, if worn, must be clear or in a light shade of pink.
Undershirts may be worn under uniform shirts in cold weather. Undershirts must be
white, crew-necked shirts.
Girls’ hair accessories (bows, headbands, etc.) should be solid white, navy, black or
school plaid. No other colors or adornments allowed.
Appearance
SHOES
Black, White, Gray, Navy Athletic Shoes – NO OTHER COLORS
(Primarily solid color & shoe laces must be white or match shoe color)
* No Neon, No Lights, No Sounds, No Hi-Tops, No Glitter
Solid Brown or Black Leather / Leather-Like Shoes on non PE days are acceptable
(Closed toe and heel required with NO adornments.)
ANKLE OR KNEE-HIGH SOCKS, TIGHTS & LEGGINGS
Navy, White, or black only (No Gray; No Buttons, Zippers or Bows)
Elementary Outerwear
 Only the SCS navy blue fleece jacket or gray sweatshirt may be worn inside the building.
 All other outerwear: jackets, hooded sweatshirts, etc., may be worn outdoors only.
Co-curricular Activities
Academic Meet-Elementary Campus
Students in grades 4 through 6 will be given the opportunity to participate in the annual
academic competitions. Expenses to participate or attend this event must be met by the
students’ parents.
Safety Patrol
The Safety Patrol Organization on the elementary campus is manned with 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th
grade students. They serve SCS by working short periods of time each morning and
45
afternoon to protect students arriving and departing the campus. With parental approval,
students who have good citizenship and good grades are invited to participate. Work habits
and attendance history are also taken into consideration. The Safety Patrol sponsor will
review assignments, responsibilities, and schedule at the beginning of the school year. No
student will be allowed to serve without his or her parent’s permission.
Parties (Student Birthday) - Elementary Campus
Students may celebrate their birthdays at school with cupcakes or cookies to be served by a
parent during lunch in the cafeteria. Arrangements must be made through the teacher one
week prior to the celebration. When treats are brought to the school, there must be
enough to share with the whole class. The homeroom teacher will inform parents if a
classroom is a “peanut-free” zone.
Elementary Campus Student Council
Elementary Student Council will participate in service and leadership projects for the school
and community. Eligible members must have good citizenship.
Other Clubs
Other clubs are chartered to provide additional student service to the school. A club list is
available from the school office. School-sponsored clubs are formed through petition and
through formation and presentation of a club charter with final approval by the principal.
Academics
Elementary Evaluation Code
Grades 2 through 6
ACADEMICS Code I
ACADEMICS Code II
BEHAVIOR/WORK ETHIC Code III
A – Superior (90- 100)
E – Exceeds Standards
E - Exceeds Standards
B – Very good (80-89)
S – Meets Standards
S - Meets Standards
C - Average; good (70- 79)
N – Needs Improvement N – Needs Improvement to
F – Unsatisfactory (0 –69)
to meet standards
meet standards
Note: Early Childhood, kindergarten, and first grade students will be evaluated using a
different instrument that is more developmentally appropriate. Their respective teachers
will discuss these systems.
Academic Testing
Assessment
InView
Terra Nova
Grade Level(s)
3&5
1-6
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Type
Date
Aptitude
Achievement
Spring
Class Assignments and Scheduling of Elementary School Students
The assignment of students to classes and/or teacher will be at the discretion of the
professional staff of Southwest Christian School. Parents are not allowed to request class or
teacher assignments for their children. The administration must have the authority to
balance classes based on gender, academic ability, age (in younger students), number of
students new to SCS, and facility requirements (size of room, for example). Every effort will
be made to place each student in the setting that is best for that student. Our goal is
excellence for ALL students.
Homework
Homework is “work assigned to be completed at home”. It is an extension of work
completed in class. Therefore, the student should be able to complete the homework at an
independent, non-frustration level. Daily work not finished in class, studying for tests, or
working on assigned projects is NOT considered homework.
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May be assigned on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays for 1st - 4th grade students.
Some Friday’s may intermittently have assigned homework.
Can be assigned on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays for 5th-6th grade
students.
The amount of time considered acceptable for a student to complete homework is
equivalent to the number of the grade level multiplied by 10 minutes.
Daily Work
Students will be given the opportunity to “re-do” failing assignments within 5 instructional
days for a maximum of a 70 so student can demonstrate learned concepts and skills. Failing
assignments, due to late work point deductions, will not be eligible for “re-dos”. Students
will not be able to “re-do” failing quizzes or tests.
Late Work
Late work is considered “assigned work that is not turned in on the day it is due”.
For 2nd grade:
 1 day late: 5 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 2 days late: 10 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 3 days late: 15 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 4 or more days late: a 60 will be entered in grade book.
For 3rd-4th grades:
 1 day late: 10 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 2 days late: 20 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 3 days late: 30 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 4 or more days late: a zero (0) will be entered in the grade book.
For 5th-6th grades:
 1 day late: 15 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 2 days late: 30 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 3 days late: 45 points will be deducted from total score of assignment.
 4 or more days late: a zero (0) will be entered in the grade book.
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Teachers may choose to use good judgment and grade for extenuating circumstances.
Make-up Work for Absences and Extra-Curricular Activities
Make-up work is work a student needs to complete due to being absent.
 A student has the same number of days he/she was absent to complete
assignments. For example, if a student is absent on Monday and Tuesday, the
student must turn in make-up work by Friday morning; if a student is absent on
Wednesday and Thursday, the student must turn in make-up work by Tuesday
morning.
 If a student is absent due to an extra-curricular activity, work is due the following
day. The student will be responsible for attending tutorials the next morning to
receive instruction if a class was missed.
 5th and 6th grade students will be expected to access RenWeb to get the
assignments they missed while absent.
Grading Guidelines
2nd Grade is to be classified as follows:
 Major Grades
 Daily Work
3rd-6th grades will be classified as follows:
 Tests, Quizzes, Major Projects
 Daily Work (done in class)
 Homework, Participation
55%
45%
50%
35%
15%
Learning Lab
The Learning Lab is available for students with diagnosed learning differences and/or ADHD
who require extra support for successful completion of the curriculum. An additional fee
applies for learning lab services. Interested parents should contact their student’s guidance
counselor.
Level 2 students enrolled and receiving accommodations through the Learning Lab will have
individualized grading procedures based on student needs determined cooperatively by the
Learning Lab and Classroom teacher.
 Students will have the opportunity to be re-taught and re-assessed on failing daily
work, quizzes, and tests for a maximum grade of a 70.
 Grades will reflect that the student is receiving assistance and accommodations
through learning support program. The teacher will note this in the comments
section of the report card.
Home Reading
In addition to homework assignments, all students in grades kindergarten through six will
have required reading assignments per the teacher’s instructions.
48
Library - Elementary Campus
The SCS Elementary Library is open from 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. each day. Literature
appreciation and library science skills are taught in weekly scheduled classes in the library.
A full time librarian is available to assist students in selecting literature, conducting
research, and checking out books or other media.
Students in grades one through six have a flexible check out system and can check out up to
five books at a time. The books are due two weeks from the day they were checked out.
Kindergarten students check out two books weekly on a scheduled day. Students receive a
reminder notice the day before their books are due. The late fee for an overdue book is $.10
a day per book excluding weekends and holidays. The fee for a lost book is the price of the
book that was lost and a $5 handling fee. If a student, parent, or teacher has a question
about the contents of a library book, guidelines for challenging a book are explained in the
Southwest Christian Library Collection policy. This policy also explains the sections and
purchasing guidelines for the school library.
At the start of each year, every student is given a reading assessment called The
Standardized Test for Assessment of Reading (S.T.A.R.) to determine his/her level of reading
development. This information is used to determine the student’s yearly goal in the
Accelerated Reader program. From the A.R. list, which contains hundreds of book titles,
students select books on their reading level to read. They then take a computerized test to
measure reading comprehension and accuracy. They are awarded points based on reading
difficulty and percentages correct, and use their points for prizes and awards. The student’s
progress is monitored throughout the year until he/she reaches his/her yearly goal.
Academic Integrity Policy
Southwest Christian School is dedicated to graduating young adults who are prepared for
college level study and Christian leadership. Students are expected to produce work that
reflects honorable behavior and ethical standards. Work that does not meet these criteria
is not acceptable. Plagiarism and cheating are considered serious offenses in our behavior
code and will be handled according to the guidelines listed below.
At the elementary campus, cheating is taken seriously; however, teachers and
administrators desire to treat each incident as a teachable moment and ensure that
consequences are appropriate to the situation and the age of the child. Consequences
which may occur:
 Parents are contacted
 Student re-does the assignment for less than full credit
 Student receives a zero on the assignment
 Student meets with the teacher and principal
 Student’s behavior/work ethic grade drops one level
 In-school suspension
49
Academic Recognition
Honor Roll
Academic Honor Roll: All As or As and Bs in the academic areas of the report card and E or S
in all enrichment subjects.
End of Year Awards:
Special recognition will be given to qualified students at the end of each school year.
Elementary Graduation Ceremonies
Graduation ceremonies are held for kindergarten and sixth grade students on the
elementary campus.
50
Preparatory Campus
General Information
Hours of Operation
Preparatory Middle School Hours
Preparatory High School Hours
8:35 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
8:35 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Building Entry and Exit
Students, parents, and visitors should enter and exit the school building through the main
entrance in the front of the buildings. The administrative offices are immediately inside the
front doors. All visitors must go to the office on either campus and present a driver’s license
to receive a visitor’s badge.
Parent Parking and Traffic Regulations
Drivers should enter and exit the prep campus from Altamesa Blvd. through the gates
marked with the SCS sign. Follow that street to the front of the building and go through the
appropriate turnaround to drop off your students at the front door. The turnaround is for
dropping off and picking up only. If you have business to conduct at the school, please park
in visitor parking. Do not park in fire lanes or in reserved parking. All parents are asked to
display our SCS Fast Pass decal on their car to enable security personnel to distinguish visitor
vehicles. Vehicles that do not have an SCS Fast Pass will be stopped by security guard and
occupants will be asked to state the nature of their visit to the campus. Use of cell phones
while operating a vehicle on Southwest Christian School campuses is prohibited.
Student Driver/Vehicle Policy
Students with an authorized driver’s license will be permitted to drive vehicles on campus
once they have obtained an SCS permit. Obtaining a permit includes registering your vehicle
with the Dean of Students and having your school issued registration sticker placed on your
windshield at all times. Student drivers are to observe safe driving practices and rules of
courtesy. SCS makes it a common practice to contract the services of a canine safety unit for
random inspections of parking lots and lockers. By registering a vehicle and utilizing school
parking lots, students are subject to such vehicle searches. If the canine unit identifies a
concern with a vehicle, the student will be called to his/her vehicle where an inspection will
take place by the unit’s professionally trained personnel with both the student and school
administrator present. Any concerns resulting from the search will be communicated from
administration to parents and, if needed, will conference to determine appropriate next
steps. Refusal to cooperate with a requested search will be respected by the administration,
but will result in consequences consistent with a handbook violation.
 Under no circumstances are students to park in spaces designated as faculty or staff
parking.
 No students will be permitted to drive on campus or leave campus during school hours
without authorization from the Attendance Clerk, Dean of Students or Principal.
51










Regardless of the circumstances, the Attendance Clerk must be notified when a student
is leaving campus during school hours.
No student may return to his car during the day without permission. Students who
create disturbances, drive carelessly, or violate rules regarding vehicles on campus will
lose the right to bring a vehicle on campus. Drivers must have their car registered with
the school and have a parking decal.
Drivers will not exceed 15 miles per hour in the parking lot or 20 mph north of the
football field.
Drivers must never “peel out” or drive in any unsafe manner.
Drivers are not to drive onto grassy areas.
Student drivers will park only in parking spaces designated for students.
Drivers will be responsible for any damage done to other vehicles or the facility.
No student is to touch another car without permission. (This includes sitting on, leaning
on, standing on, sitting in, window painting, etc.)
Students are not to stand in front of, play ball or roughhouse near vehicles.
Students should exercise caution when in and around parking lots, driveways, and any
other areas where vehicles are present.
Damage to vehicles, even if incidental, must be reported to the school administration.
Lunch Program
The foyer located in the Snelson Gymnasium serves as the prep campus lunchroom.
Students may either bring their lunches from home or purchase lunches from the
lunchroom. Hot lunches are provided by a catering service. All students are asked to remove
their lunch items from the table and to clean up when they finish their meal. Student
lunches are paid for through ParentsWeb.
SCS is a closed campus. Parents that wish to feed a group of students are asked to seek
approval through the administration. Lunches are to be eaten within the lunchroom. The
only exception will be when meetings of student organizations are held with the faculty
advisor present. Students are not allowed to order food and have it delivered to the school
without administrative approval. Students who leave campus without permission will be
subject to disciplinary action for skipping classes.
Extended Hours for Preparatory Campus (Grades 7-12)
School doors open at 8:00 a.m. Students are invited to wait in the cafeteria until the bell
rings at 8:00 a.m. The library is open until 4:20 p.m. On Wednesdays, students may enter the
building when the bell rings at 8:20 a.m. Tutoring is not offered on Wednesday mornings.
After School Supervision
All students are expected to be picked up at the end of the school day unless they are in
after-school programs and are under the supervision of staff or faculty. Students should be
picked up by 4:20 p.m. In the event that a student is waiting for a ride home he or she may
wait under supervision in the cafeteria for pickup.
52
Attendance
Preparatory Campus
School buildings will be open at 8:00 a.m. for tutoring and for general entry (open campus)
each school day and students are expected to remain in authorized spaces during the school
day. Visitors, other than parents and other authorized personnel, are not allowed on campus
during the school day. All visitors must report to the office as soon as they arrive on campus.
Attendance
In order to ensure success in school, each student must be regular in their attendance.
Students who arrive late for school or leave early must check in/out through the office with
proper authority and verified by note or phone. No student is to leave the campus unless
given permission by the office. Any student doing so is subject to suspension.
Tardies
The school regards punctuality as essential to the successful operation of the learning
environment. Tardiness causes distractions and interruptions for students and teachers.
Persistent tardiness either to school or to individual classes will not be tolerated.
Tardiness to school for any reason must be cleared by the student in the school office before
a tardy permit will be issued to admit her/him to class. Parents are encouraged to avoid
subjecting students to discipline which results from parental tardiness. If a student is
detained in class or by other school personnel, he/she should secure a written statement
from that person to give to the teacher of the next class.
Any student arriving late for school must go to the office for an admit slip. The student
should bring an excuse written and signed by the parent or be accompanied by a parent. The
note must include the following information: date of tardiness, reason for tardiness, and the
signature of the parent or guardian. A third tardy (in any class) in the same semester equals
one (1) daily absence for high school students. (See Loss of Credit, page 55). Students
receive a demerit for each unexcused tardy. Students who are late to class by more than 15
minutes due to an unexcused tardy will be counted absent unexcused. Students missing
more than half of a class, regardless of whether or not it is excused, will be counted absent.
Absences
Note: When your child is absent, we must have a note of explanation for our attendance
files.
There are times when it is necessary for a student to miss classes due to personal illness,
serious illness, death in the family, or school related events. These absences will be
considered excused and the student will be given an opportunity to make up any class work
missed; however, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain assignments and make up
work must be completed and turned in whether the student’s absence is excused or
unexcused. As a general guideline, students will have one (1) day to make up daily
assignments for each day absent.
Students will be responsible for long-term
53
projects/assignments as originally assigned. Teachers will make every effort to facilitate a
student’s successful return to class while encouraging student self-responsibility.
The following will constitute excused absences:
1. Medical appointments and illness verified by a physician or parent, (absences due to
being in the nurse’s office will be counted as excused absences only if the illness is
verified in writing by the proper office authorities.) Parents are requested not to arrange
appointments with doctors, dentists, etc., during school hours unless absolutely
necessary.
2. Serious illness in the family.
3. Death in the family.
4. Official school related events as approved by the principal. NOTE: Students are
expected to report to school at the regular time on the morning following the school
event, unless the arrival back to campus is after 1:00 a.m. When it is necessary for
students to have an early dismissal in order to travel out of town to a school event, all
early dismissals will be restricted to participating students and their siblings and must
receive prior approval by coaches, teachers, sponsors, or the principal.
5. Activities that are deemed educationally beneficial to the student as approved by the
principal prior to the absences (one week for a trip). Parents are asked to personally
contact the principal regarding family trips. Note: Excused absences are still counted
towards a student’s total absence count.
Unexcused Absences
Any reason other than those listed above must be approved by the administration in
advance if possible. Exceptions may be made for unusual circumstances beyond the
student’s control.
An unexcused absence will result in an assigned demerit. The Late Work Policy (see page
57) applies to unexcused absences and for suspensions. For more information on
suspensions, see page 88.
Reporting Absences and Requesting Make-up Work
Parents should call the school at the beginning of the school day, 817-294-9596, and press 2
to report an absence. Parents may also notify the school of absences via email at
[email protected].
Note: When your child is absent, we must have a note of explanation for our attendance files
before the absence can be considered excused. The emailed absence report will
accommodate that requirement.
Students may check RenWeb first for assignments missed, then, if there are questions,
contact the teacher via voicemail or email for any missing work. Students have one day for
each excused absence to turn in homework, but long-term projects and other major
assignments are due on the assigned due date. Students are responsible to schedule a makeup date for tests missed on the day they return to class.
54
Make-up work must be completed and turned in whether the student’s absence is excused
or unexcused.
For prolonged absences, students or parents are to e-mail, call or send a note to the
Guidance Office to request homework/make-up assignments. All assignment requests
(make-up work, etc.) must be received in the Guidance Office by 9:00 a.m. in order to be
available by 4:00 p.m. that day.
NEW: Additionally, students should remember that missing more than ten percent (10%) of
the instructional days in any given course in a semester, regardless of whether the absence
is excused or unexcused, may result in loss of credit for the course. See Loss of Credit, page
55.
Notes for Absences
When a student cannot attend school, it is the parent’s responsibility to notify the office to
report an absence. Notification by email is preferred.
Elementary: [email protected]
Preparatory: [email protected]
Upon returning to school, the student must bring a note signed by his/her parent. This
excuse needs to state the number of days missed, the dates, the reason for absence, and
signature of parent or physician. If the absence is five (5) consecutive days due to illness, the
student is required to bring a doctor’s release to return to school. On the elementary
campus this written excuse is presented to the classroom teacher who in turn submits it with
the attendance records to the school office. For grades 7 –12 the excuses are turned in to
the office prior to the beginning of school. The student will be issued an admit slip back to
class.
Loss of Credit
If a student misses more than ten percent (10%) of the instructional days in any given
course in a semester, regardless of whether the absence is excused or unexcused, no credit
will be received for the course unless the student makes up the seat time. All absences,
excused or unexcused, count toward the total number of days of allowed absences per
semester. The only exception in which an absence is not counted is when students are
participating in school activities.
The principal should be notified of extenuating circumstances that could result in an
extended absence. Examples can include a prolonged illness which is documented by a
physician or a lengthy family crisis. In these cases, every attempt will be made to send study
assignments home to help the student progress academically and be eligible to take the final
exam in each course. These arrangements, once approved by the principal, will be facilitated
through the Guidance Office. In extreme circumstances guidance personnel may suggest to
administration that a student become a non-traditional student.
55
Non-traditional Student
Non-traditional students have the opportunity to continue academically with SCS by taking
advantage of the school’s curriculum, guidance services, and tutorial time before and after
school in an effort to expedite graduation requirements and receive a diploma. Unlike
traditional students, non-traditional students do not have access to instructors during the
school day or to extra-curricular activities.
Student Check Out Policy (Early Dismissal)
Any student leaving school during the regular school day must check out through the
appropriate school office. All students must have a written parental permission slip before
an early dismissal will be allowed. This written permission slip should be submitted to the
office before school begins.
School Notification of Parents Regarding Absences (Excused and Unexcused)
1. Parents will be notified of each absence via RenWeb.
2. Elementary Campus: Eight absences per semester is the maximum number allowed.
If a student exceeds the allowed absences, the parents must meet with
administration to determine the best placement for the following year.
Family Trips
We request that trips of any kind while school is in session be limited since any absence
affects the learning process. However, when trips are necessary, we require the following
action:
1. Notify school principal and obtain permission at least one week prior to leaving town.
2. Make arrangements for make-up work as approved by the teacher(s) involved.
3. Any major assignments due during the absence must be turned in prior to leaving on the
trip.
Note: Non-emergency trips will result in an unexcused absence and will not be approved
during major testing periods. SCS suggests that families plan ahead and attempt to schedule
trips during student holidays. See section entitled “Loss of Credit” for additional information.
Make-up Work
Make-up work applies to students who have an excused absence from school. Parents of
absent students are to call or send a note to request homework/make-up assignments that
are not posted on RenWeb. All assignment requests not posted on RenWeb (make-up work,
etc.) must be received in the Guidance Office by 9:00 a.m. in order to be available by 4:00
p.m. that day.
Students with an excused absence will be allowed time equal to that of the absence, (one
school day for each day absent) to complete daily assignments. For prolonged or chronic
illness or injury, special arrangements may be made with the Guidance Department and
principal.
56
Any written assignment or test not completed within the prescribed period of time will
count as a zero in the student’s grade record. Students must take the initiative in making up
and turning in missed class work.
Late Work -7th Grade
ZAP (Zero Alternative Program) is for 7th grade students and is designed to assist them with
their academic transition to middle school. ZAP allows students the opportunity to make up
work for reduced credit (up to 70 percent) that would otherwise be a zero for not being
turned in on time. When a 7th grade student fails to turn in an assignment he or she is given
a ZAP slip allowing the student to make one of three choices:
1. The student can disregard the slip and take a zero.
2. The student can make up the assignment during the same school day, attach the
ZAP slip and turn it in to Mrs. Pippin who will forward it to the appropriate
teacher. The assignment will then be graded and recorded accordingly.
th
While all 7 grade teachers participate in the ZAP Program, it is important to recognize the
autonomy of each classroom and respect that a teacher can deem an assignment ineligible
for ZAP. ZAP privileges can also be terminated by the principal in cases where it is
determined the program is no longer a benefit to a student’s long term academic success.
Late Work – Grades 8-12
For high school classes, late work policies are set by each academic department, but the
maximum credit for students who are in attendance but fail to turn in homework
assignments is 60 percent if the work is turned in no more than one day, not one class
period, late. After that, the assignment will receive a grade of zero. All work must be turned
in regardless of whether credit is awarded. Teachers may require assignments to be turned
in even if no credit is awarded, and failure to turn in late work may result in disciplinary
action.
Students with unexcused absences must follow the late work policy. Late work is not
accepted for dual credit courses.
Guidance and Academic Services
Guidance Office
The Guidance Office strives to aid each student to utilize his or her abilities to the fullest, to
make sound choices, and to develop self-understanding. Counselors will provide academic
support and planning, testing information and services. Parents and students are
encouraged to meet with the advisor on a regular basis during the high school years. The
Guidance Office is also available to operate in a referral capacity for personal or family
counseling.
57
Learning Lab
The Learning Lab is available for students with diagnosed learning differences and/or ADHD
who require extra support for successful completion of the curriculum. An additional fee
applies for Learning Lab services. Interested parents should contact their child’s guidance
counselor.
College Counseling
The college counseling office serves as a resource for students and families in helping
students explore college options, scholarship opportunities, and work through the college
application experience.
Registrar
The registrar maintains academic records and high school transcripts, and is responsible for
the distribution of progress reports and report cards.
College Representative Visits
As a college preparatory school, SCS encourages interaction between students and the
officials at the college or university students may choose to attend. For this reason, college
representatives are invited to visit SCS to meet and talk with students regarding college
opportunities. Every effort is made by the counselors and advisor to arrange these visits so
that interruption of class time is minimal. Visits will primarily be at lunch or during Advisory.
College Visits
All students are encouraged to visit colleges before making final application or enrollment
decisions. Prior arrangements with the school to be visited and approval of absences from
the Guidance Office should be made at least one week in advance. All school work must be
completed prior to the visit. Students are encouraged to meet with the college counselor for
assistance in planning the college visit.
Academic Testing
Standardized testing is part of the college entrance requirements. For this reason, SCS Board
of Trustees policy suggests students take the SAT examination (college entrance exam) at
least once prior to the completion of the junior year and then retake the test once as a
senior. It is recommended students also take the ACT examination. To assess their progress
and help students prepare for these important college entrance tests all students take
achievement tests as follows:
58
Fall (College Board)
Grade
Instrument
7
N/A
8
PSAT 8/9
9
PSAT 8/9
10
PSAT
11
PSAT
Grade
7
8
9
10
11
Spring (ACT)
Instrument
Aspire
Aspire
Aspire
Aspire
SAT and ACT (off site)
College Test Dates
For SAT and ACT testing dates, please visit www.collegeboard.org and www.act.org or
contact the Guidance Office for details on these test dates.
Homework
Homework may be assigned at any grade level, kindergarten through grade twelve.
Homework assignments reflect the aims and goals of instruction. Homework is not “busy
work” nor used as a means of punishment. In general, the amount of work assigned to a
student to be prepared outside of class increases as the student grows in self-direction and
independence. Parents should supervise student’s homework, but each student must do
his/her own work.
Homework is designed to serve one or more of the following purposes:
 Opportunity to practice skills learned at school or for remedial purposes.
 Preparation for upcoming lessons.
 Development of study and research skills.
 Pursuit of a special interest acquired at school.
 As enrichment and securing of additional information.
Our desire to work with the home in the achievement of educational excellence is an ongoing commitment by each staff member at SCS.
In grades 7-12, students will have a minimum of two daily or homework grades per week
(this does not apply to dual credit courses.)
Grading System
Grades 7 through 12
ACADEMICS
A- Superior (90- 100)
B – Very good (80-89)
C- Average; good (70 –79)
F – Unsatisfactory (0 –69)
CONDUCT
E- Excellent
S – Satisfactory
N – Needs Improvement
U – Unsatisfactory
59
Middle School Credits
 Students in grades 7 and 8 will receive credit yearly. The semester final test or final
paper will count 10 percent of the semester grade. The yearly average will be computed
by adding the two semester grades and dividing by two (2).
 Middle school students taking classes which receive high school credit will have semester
finals which count twenty (20) percent of the semester grade, and will receive credits by
semester average. Each semester of work satisfactorily completed will count ½ unit or
credit. These units will be recorded on report cards and transcripts by semester. Each
semester of work failed in a required course must be repeated prior to the next
academic year. Students enrolled in courses that are also offered in high school must
successfully complete the class with an average of 80 or better. Students earning less
than 80 will repeat the course in high school.
High School Credits
 Students in grades 9-12 will receive credits and grade points by semester average. Each
semester of work satisfactorily completed will count ½ unit or credit. These units will be
recorded on report cards and transcripts by semester. Semester finals count twenty (20)
percent of the semester grade. Each semester of work failed in a required course must
be repeated prior to the next academic year.

An overall grade point average (G.P.A.) is calculated at the end of each semester. Based
on the average of grades earned in all SCS subjects, the overall G.P.A. will determine
student privileges and exam exemptions.
Middle School Promotion Policy
 A student fails if he fails two (2) core subjects.
 A student fails if he fails one (1) core subject and two (2) elective subjects.
 The principal, guidance counselor, and the teacher(s) concerned will review all failures.
It is not always possible to determine retention for a subject in grades 7 and 8 until the
final grades are calculated. A middle school student who fails a subject will be required to
make up the subject in summer school.
60
GPA Calculation
GPA Calculation for High School
College Prep
AP, Honors, DC (+1)
4.00
5.00
3.95
4.95
3.90
4.90
3.85
4.85
3.80
4.80
3.75
4.75
3.70
4.70
3.65
4.65
3.60
4.60
3.55
4.55
3.50
4.50
3.45
4.45
3.40
4.40
3.35
4.35
3.30
4.30
3.25
4.25
3.20
4.20
3.15
4.15
3.10
4.10
3.05
4.05
3.00
4.00
2.95
3.95
2.90
3.90
2.85
3.85
2.80
3.80
2.70
3.70
2.60
3.60
2.50
3.50
2.40
3.40
2.20
3.20
2.00
3.00
0
0
Number Grade
100
99
98
97
96
95
94
93
92
91
90
89
88
87
86
85
84
83
82
81
80
79
78
77
76
75
74
73
72
71
70
69 or Below
Letter Grade
A+
A
A-
B+
B
B-
C+
C
CF
Since the 2010-2011 school year, high school grade point averages have been calculated
using the above table. Advanced level classes, including Honors, Dual Credit, and AP, receive
one quality point in the G.P.A. calculation. Grade point averages are cumulative and are
recalculated at the end of each semester.
61
Graduation Requirements
Classes of 2017
Subject Area
Bible:
Recommended College Prep
Plan
(30.5 credits)
Distinguished Plan*
(30.5 credits)
4
4
4**
4**
4**
4**
4.5**
4.5**
4
4
Bible I, II, III, IV (or equivalent)
English:
English I, II, III, IV (or equivalent)
Mathematics:
Algebra I, II, Geometry, plus one
additional
Social Studies:
World History I* , II, US History,
Government*, Economics*, Advanced
World Cultures (or equivalent)
*-one semester
Science:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, plus one
additional
World Language
Physical Education
Fine Arts
Speech
Elective Courses
TOTAL
3
3
(at least two in the same language)
(same language)
1
2
.5‡
3.5
30.5
1
2
.5‡
3.5
30.5
* Distinguished Plan requirements also include student achievement of four advanced measures,
which include:
 A score of three or above on a College Board Advanced Placement examination;
 A score on the PSAT that qualifies a student for recognition as a Commended Scholar or
higher by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation; as part of the National Hispanic Scholar
Program of the College Board; or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship program for
Outstanding Negro Students of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation; and
 College courses: college academic courses and tech-prep articulated college courses with a
grade of 3.0 or higher.
Students must earn at least four advanced measures and may do so in any combination.
** Students must complete these credits during High School. These requirements began with the class
of 2012.
‡ Speech credit is satisfied through successful completion of the second semester of Bible II
(Leadership). For students enrolling after their sophomore year, the credit can be satisfied through
enrollment in Bible II-B, or through an approved classroom course or online course in Speech.
62
Graduation Requirements
Beginning with the Class of 2018
Subject Area
Bible:
Recommended College Prep
Plan
(30.5 credits)
Distinguished Plan*
(30.5 credits)
4
4
4**
4**
4**
4**
5**
5**
4
4
Bible I, II, III, IV (or equivalent)
English:
English I, II, III, IV (or equivalent)
Mathematics:
Algebra I, II, Geometry, plus one
additional
Social Studies:
World History I , II, US History,
Government*, Economics*, Advanced
World Cultures
*-one semester
Science:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, plus one
additional
World Language
Physical Education
Fine Arts
Speech
Elective Courses
TOTAL
3
3
(at least two in the same language)
(same language)
1
2
.5‡
3
30.5
1
2
.5‡
3
30.5
* Distinguished Plan requirements also include student achievement of four advanced measures,
which include:
 A score of three or above on a College Board Advanced Placement examination;
 A score on the PSAT that qualifies a student for recognition as a Commended Scholar or
higher by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation; as part of the National Hispanic Scholar
Program of the College Board; or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship program for
Outstanding Negro Students of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation; and
 College courses: college academic courses and tech-prep articulated college courses with a
grade of 3.0 or higher.
Students must earn at least four advanced measures and may do so in any combination.
** Students must complete these credits during High School.
‡ Speech credit is satisfied through successful completion of the second semester of Bible II
(Leadership). For students enrolling after their sophomore year, the credit can be satisfied through
enrollment in Bible II-B, or through an approved classroom course or online course in Speech.
63
High School Course Offerings
2016-17
BIBLE:
Bible I
Bible II
Bible III
DC/H Bible III
Bible IV
DC/H Bible IV
Service Learning
SCIENCE:
Biology I
Honors Biology I
Chemistry I
Honors Chemistry I
Physics
Honors Physics
Engineering Design
Microbiology
Environmental Science
DC/H Environmental Science
DC/H Life Science
AP Biology I
Forensics
Immunology
Experimental Design
FINE ARTS:
Art I
Art II
Art III
AP Art
Theatre Arts I
Theatre Production
Honors Advanced Acting
Choir
Honor Choir
Band
Honor Band
Praise Band
Drum Line
Dance
ENGLISH:
English I
Honors English I
English II
Honors English II
English III
Honors English III
English IV
DC/H Composition & Rhetoric
DC/H Composition & Literature
DC/H Exploring American Literature
DC/H Exploring British Literature
DC/H World Literature
AP English Language
AP English Literature
SOCIAL STUDIES:
World Geography (8th grade)
Ancient History
Honors Ancient History
U.S. Government
World History
Honors World History
U.S. History
DC/H U.S. History
Advanced World Cultures
DC/H Advanced World Cultures
Economics
DC/H Study Abroad – France
TECHNOLOGY:
Web Design & Video Editing
Multimedia Design
Robotics I
Robotics II
Technology Applications
Yearbook
Newspaper
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MATHEMATICS:
Algebra I
Geometry
Honors Geometry
Algebra II
Honors Algebra II
DC/H College Algebra
Pre-Calculus
DC/H Pre-Calculus
DC/H Calculus
AP Calculus AB
AB Calculus BC
WORLD LANGUAGES:
Spanish I
Spanish II
Honors Spanish II
Spanish III
Honors Spanish III
DC/H Spanish IV
DC/H Spanish V
Chinese I
Chinese II
Honors Chinese II
Chinese III
Honors Chinese III
DC/H Chinese IV
DC/H Chinese V
PHYSICAL EDUCATION:
Athletics
Cheerleading
To count toward graduation, all course credits must be earned while a student is at
Southwest Christian School or another approved institution. Any high school courses taken
during the eighth grade year (such as Algebra I) will be considered as high school credits.
These courses will be included on the high school transcript; however, the grades earned will
not be included in the cumulative high school grade point average.
Honors and Advanced Level Courses
These courses permit students to explore a given subject in greater depth than in regular
college-prep courses. The workload is heavier, the course material is dealt with on a more
sophisticated level, and the pace is brisk. Students are expected to bring to advanced level
courses a strong record in the subject area and a high level of commitment. In most cases,
students are required to purchase their own textbooks and are taught to use these materials
in the same manner that will be expected in college. Because more is expected of students, a
quality point will be added to the G.P.A. in all advanced level courses.
Advanced Placement courses are designed to help qualified students acquire the skills and
habits they will need to be successful in college. Students will improve their writing skills,
sharpen problem-solving abilities, and develop time management skills, discipline, and study
habits.
Southwest Christian School offers college credit in classes designated as “dual credit” to
qualified students. This option is offered in partnership with Texas Wesleyan University,
Indiana Wesleyan University, and LeTourneau University. Students who register for dual
credit classes are officially registered as students at each respective university. It is
recommended that students request official transcripts at the close of each semester to
ensure grades are accurately reported. Students who meet the dual credit requirements can
earn college credits for each class while meeting the high school requirements for
graduation. A quality point will be added to the G.P.A. for all dual credit courses. There is
an additional charge for these classes. Students should research their target colleges and
universities to verify the schools’ policies regarding dual credit.
Dropping and Adding Courses
During the registration process, every effort is made to place students in courses and
sections that are appropriate for them. In unusual situations, a student may not be properly
placed or may change his or her academic plans thus necessitating a change of courses. A
student who wishes to drop or add a course must consult with the counselor. A course
dropped after the tenth week of the fall or spring semester will be marked on the transcript
as a withdraw passing or withdraw failing based on the official grade at the date of
withdrawal. Withdraw failing will be calculated in the GPA.
Correspondence Courses/Online Courses
When the school schedule does not accommodate a student’s need to take a required
course in the regular school day, he/she may have the option of completing the course
through an alternative source. Information regarding alternative credit courses is available
65
through the Guidance Office. Alternative credit courses must be approved prior to
enrollment. Students may not take online or correspondence courses to advance their
academic record.
Credit by Exam
Credit by Exam is available for credit recovery ONLY. Information regarding this option is
available through the Guidance Office.
Summer School
SCS may offer select courses during summer school for the purpose of credit recovery.
Students may attend summer school at an approved institution for credit recovery only.
Students may not take courses through summer school to advance their academic record.
Semester Exam Exemption Policy
Those seniors with a semester class average of 90 or above with no more than two absences
may be exempt from the second semester exam, subject to the teacher’s discretion. The
final exam will be determined by averaging the third and fourth quarter grades. All other
students will be required to take both semester exams. Semester exams will count one-fifth
of the total semester grade. Dual credit courses require a final, even if the student is taking
the class as Honors only. A final exam is also given in all one semester courses.
Commencement Ceremony
Southwest Christian School conducts a commencement ceremony at the close of the school
year honoring high school graduates.
Graduation with Honors
Grade point averages to determine the valedictorian and salutatorian will be calculated
based on grades earned in required core courses taken at Southwest Christian School in
grades 9 through 12. Fine Arts and P.E., athletics, or other elective courses are not included
in the calculation. Grades are averaged to the thousandths place. If the top two graduates
tie to the thousandths place, two valedictorians will be named and the third place student
will be named salutatorian. The cut-off for grades to be included in the calculation is the end
of the second semester of the senior year. Students must have attended Southwest Christian
School from their sophomore through their senior years to be considered for valedictorian
or salutatorian.
Class Rank
Because of its selective admissions practices and highly competitive program, Southwest
Christian School does not rank its students academically. Given the size and makeup of the
student body, slight variations in G.P.A. can make significant differences in class rank.
Christian Service Requirements
The Christian Service graduation requirement recognizes the efforts of our students and
meets the standards set to support Christian leadership and service in our youth. Students
must earn a minimum requirement of ten (10) hours of service each year in grades 9-12.
66
Service hours can be earned for each academic school year between June 1 and April 30.
Hours earned after April 30 will apply to the next academic year. Deadlines for submitting
service hours are listed below in this section. Certificates of recognition at the awards
ceremony given in May will count hours between June 1 and April 15.
Southwest Christian School provides a variety of experiences for students to obtain the
Christian service requirement. Students are given the opportunity to determine which
method he or she would like to complete to meet this requirement. One method is through
the SCS Minimester experience. The purpose of the Minimester is to expand and enrich
Southwest Christian’s curriculum by providing our students the opportunity to learn and
serve in ways a traditional classroom cannot offer. We feel strongly that equipping our
students to be Christian leaders in the world includes hands-on, real world service and
learning opportunities.
Minimester is a required one-week program complete with local, national, and
international experiences, and is scheduled for the week of March 6-10, 2017 (though some
trips may depart and/or arrive before or after these dates). Minimester is a component of
each high school student’s Bible credit and supports the academic and spiritual mission of
Southwest Christian School. While there is great diversity in our annual Minimester
opportunities, experiences can generally be categorized as: service oriented, educationally
focused, or cultural emersion.
Another way to reach this requirement is through various service projects with our
community partners throughout the year. A benefit of community involvement is the
accumulation of volunteer hours that are important on college and scholarship applications.
SCS partners with the President's Volunteer Service Award. This national award recognizes
individuals that have achieved a standard of service with specific organizations over a 12month period. To receive credit for the President’s Volunteer Service projects, each student
must establish an account at the website and provide SCS as the Certifying Organization.
Students will need to list the ROS Key for SCS as MBX-28553 in order to receive credit.
Information for the President’s Volunteer Service projects may be found at their website
(www.presidentialserviceawards.gov/).
Bronze President’s Volunteer Service Award (All Students)
Silver President’s Volunteer Service Award (All Students)
Gold President’s Volunteer Service Award (All Students)
100-174 hours
175-249 hours
250+ hours
In addition the President’s Volunteer Service award, SCS has created several awards to
recognize community service activities. Please note that SCS criteria differ from Presidential
Service qualifications. It is the responsibility of the student to confirm that the criteria for
SCS are met to receive credit. Activities do not need to be pre-approved, but questions
regarding whether activities meet SCS criteria should be directed to the Christian Service
67
Board, consisting of Bible teachers, the college counselor, the Guidance Department
director, and the principal. Requirements for the awards are listed below.
Seniors with exceptional service are honored during graduation exercises. Students need to
accrue 50 or more hours for each year they are at SCS. Students will be recognized as
follows:
Ephesians 2:10 Christian Service Award
50+ hours each year at SCS
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God
prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
During the Academic Awards Assembly each spring, students are honored for their service
according to the following criteria: Honor recognition will be based upon the information
recorded as of April 15, 2017. Final report card will show all hours earned for that year.
Matthew 5:16 Joyful Servant Award (All students)
25-74 hours
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds
and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16
II Corinthian 9:12 Thankful Servant Award (All students)
75+ hours
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is
also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. II Corinthians 9:12
Achievement in Christian Service will be recognized and honored during the Spring Awards
Ceremony. Students will be honored for their service based upon the information recorded
as of April 15, 2016. Certificates will be printed for the awards ceremony only. The final
report card will show all hours earned for the year and the final recognition award will be
indicated on the report card but certificates will not be reprinted.
Christian service hours are accepted from churches and/or non-profit community
organizations ONLY. A myriad of avenues are available for students to perform community
service. A few examples include organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Red
Cross, Special Olympics, hospitals, food banks, and Habitat for Humanity. Opportunities will
also be available through class projects, Student Council, and National Honor Society. Lists
of organizations who allow teenage volunteers will be available through the Bible
Department chair.
Activities for which a student will not receive approval include, but are not limited to:
 Services performed for monetary reward
 Services performed for a family member
 Court or school appointed service hours
 Political campaigning
 Activities which are primarily social rather than service oriented
68
Cultural Exchange programs (including mission trips) will be given up to 8 hours of credit per
diem of service (no credit will be given for sleeping, travel, or mere touring activities).
Service Verification forms will be available to the students in their Bible classes or on the
SCS website. As soon as a project is completed, the verification form should be properly
completed, signed and returned to the student’s Bible teacher. Please make a copy for your
records. The SCS Christian Service Board will make decisions regarding the acceptance of
hours. The completed forms will be kept on file for each current year of service.
In the event that the minimum hours for the year are not met, the student will receive an
incomplete for his/her Bible course and have two (2) weeks to complete the hours.
Following the extended two weeks, a failing grade for the Bible course will be given. This
failure will impact the student’s grade point average and will remain on the student’s
transcript until the hours have been completed and the service verification form has been
returned. After the two weeks extended time, the highest grade a student can receive will
be a 70 percent.
Please note that all deadlines are firm. In order for the community service hours to count,
the hours must be submitted by the deadline:
Hours served June 1-August 31 must be turned in by September 9.
Hours served September 1-November 30 must be turned in by December 9.
Hours served December 1 – February 19 must be turned in by March 3.
Hours served February 20-April 30 must be turned in by May 5.
**All seniors must have their service hours turned in prior to April 14th to receive credit.**
Recognition for award ceremony will be based upon information recorded as of April 14, 2017.
May 5 is the final day to turn in Christian Service Hours
All deadlines are firm!
69
OFFICE USE ONLY
FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2016-2017
Approved_____________
Committee____________
Signature_____________
Date ________________
Christian Service Verification Record
A. STUDENT PORTION
______________________ __________________________
Last Name
First Name
_____________________
Grade
School Year
Name of Event: ________________________________________________________________________
Date of Event:____________________________________________________________
Number of Hours Served:______________________________________________________________
How I served at this event:_____________________________________________________________
What I found rewarding about this experience:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
B. AGENCY PORTION:
The student successfully completed the volunteer service as stated above.
Supervisor’s Signature:__________________________________________ Date:___________________
Agency:________________________________________________ Telephone:____________________
C. General Information
Christian Service Hours are accepted from churches or non-profit community organizations ONLY.
Activities for which a student will not receive approval include, but are not limited to:
 Services performed for monetary reward.
 Services performed for a family member.
 Court or school appointed service hours.
 Political campaigning.
 Activities which are primarily social rather than service oriented.
Hours served June 1-August 31 must be turned in by September 11.
Hours served September 1-November 30 must be turned in by December 7.
Hours served December 1 – February 22 must be turned in by March 4.
Hours served February 23-April 30 must be turned in by May 6.
**All seniors must have their service hours turned in prior to April 14th to receive credit.**
Honor recognition for award ceremony will be based upon information recorded as of April 14, 2016.
May 6 is the final day to turn in Christian Service Hours
All deadlines are firm!
70
Academic Recognition
Southwest Christian School recognizes student achievement at each quarter and at each
semester. The President’s List and Principal’s List are awarded each semester and are
determined using the semester average, which is calculated using quarterly grades and final
exams. Students on the President’s and Principal’s Lists will receive a certificate, a letter
home, and notation on the report card. Honor rolls reflect quarter grades only and are noted
on the report card.
1st Semester Awards
President’s List for students who earned all As for the first semester.
Principal’s List for students who earned all As and Bs for the first semester.
A Honor Roll for students who earned all As for their first and second quarters.
A/B Honor Roll for students who earned all As and Bs for the first and second quarters.
2nd Semester Awards
President’s List for students who earned all As for the second semester.
Principal’s List for students who earned all As and Bs for the second semester.
A Honor Roll for students who earned all As for the 3rd and 4th quarters.
A/B Honor Roll for students who earned all As and Bs for the 3rd and 4th quarters.
Student Achievement Awards
Students from each class are selected by teachers each year for demonstrating high
academic average and exceptional class participation. These students are recognized at a
special ceremony at the close of the school year.
National Honor Society
The purpose of this organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, promote leadership,
develop character, stimulate a desire to render service, and encourage exemplary
citizenship. To be eligible for membership, the candidate must be a member of the
sophomore, junior, or senior class. He or she must have been in attendance at the school
the equivalent of one semester and must have at least a weighted 3.70 G.P.A. (excluding P.E.
& athletics) and an outstanding discipline record. Selection for membership in the National
Honor Society is by a majority vote of the Faculty Council and is based on the four tenets of
the National Honor Society: leadership, scholarship, character, and service. Students
nominated to NHS will be provided with an application that must be completed entirely
within the time frames. Incomplete applications will be seen as disinterest in membership
and will be disqualified from final consideration. Membership is NEVER considered on the
basis of scholarship alone. Induction takes place during the second semester. Once
selected, members have the responsibility to continue to demonstrate the above-mentioned
qualities. Further, members will be provided opportunities to participate in various service
projects throughout the year. Members who resign or are dismissed for failing to maintain
71
the NHS standards to which they were initially selected are never again eligible for
membership or its benefits. The decision of the Faculty Council is final.
National Junior Honor Society
The purpose of this organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, promote leadership,
develop character, stimulate a desire to render service, and encourage exemplary
citizenship. To be eligible for membership, the candidate must be a member of the 7 th, 8th,
or 9th grade class, been enrolled in the school the equivalent of one semester, and have a
cumulative scholastic average of at least 94 percent (excluding athletics). Students taking
elected high school courses will receive an additional point per elected course after the
cumulative scores are calculated. Selection for membership in the NJHS is by majority vote
of the Faculty Council and is based on the five tenets of the National Junior Honor Society.
Induction takes place during the second semester. Once selected, members have the
responsibility to continue to demonstrate the above-mentioned qualities. Members who
resign or are dismissed for failing to maintain the NJHS standards to which they were initially
selected are never again eligible for membership or its benefits. The decision of the Faculty
Council is final.
General Information – NHS & NJHS
 Selection for membership is by a Faculty Council appointed annually by the principal.
Membership is an honor accorded by the faculty. Students may not apply for
membership without a nomination from the NHS Advisory Board.
 Induction and ongoing membership are based upon first semester grades.
 Students selected for membership are expected to continue to demonstrate the qualities
of scholarship, leadership, character, and service. A member who fails to maintain the
academic standard, earns an N or U in citizenship, fails to attend the monthly meetings,
or in any other way discredits his/her membership, will be subject to a probationary
status of at least one grading period. During this time, the member must make up any
deficiencies stipulated in the terms of probation. A student placed on probation for any
reason receives a hand-delivered letter and a copy is mailed to the parents.
 While on probation for any reason, the NHS/NJHS member may attend meetings.
Participation in chapter activities is at the advisor’s discretion. If the terms of the
probation are fulfilled, the member is then returned to membership in good standing. A
letter to this effect is hand-delivered to the student and a copy is mailed to the parents.
For further information regarding probation and dismissal procedures, please contact
the chapter advisor.
 A member of the NHS or NJHS who transfers to this school will automatically be accepted
for membership in this chapter upon presentation of a letter signed by his/her principal
certifying membership. The responsibility lies with the student to initiate this procedure.
In order to maintain membership, a transfer student must meet the requirements set by
the SCS chapter.
 The selection process, criteria, and requirements of the SCS NHS/NJHS are governed by
and are in direct compliance with the constitution set forth by the National Council.
72
Fincher Library & Media Center – Prep Campus
The SCS Prep Campus Library is open from 8:00 a.m. – 4:20 p.m. each school day including all
lunch periods. Students are encouraged to use this resource for academic purposes as well
as recreational reading. Prep campus students have access to the library at “point of need”
when a valid pass by a teacher is issued as well as when teachers schedule their classes for
unit research in the library. Students will be allowed to check out up to five books for a twoweek period. Items may be renewed as long as no other library user has placed a “hold” on
the item. Reference materials such as encyclopedias may not be checked out, but are
provided for in-library use only. Students may check out certain types of reference materials
for a 24-hour period. Faculty members also have limited check-out privileges for some types
of reference materials. Ask the librarian for further clarification. Use of the library
constitutes an agreement to abide by these and all other library policies.
Lost library materials will be subject to the replacement cost of the item plus a $5.00
processing fee. Lost items returned before the replacement is purchased will be eligible for
a full refund.
To be able to use the computers in the library – or any computer on campus – a student
must have a valid Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) on file. Forms are available from the Campus
Technologist. Upon completion of the form with signatures of the student and
parent/guardian, the AUP should be turned in to the Campus Technologist who will then
activate the account and provide a user name and password. The school may require
additional documentation for use of technology.
This year we are continuing the policy of 50 free copies (printouts as well as photocopies)
each semester for each student. After the 50 free copies, a nominal fee of $.10 per page will
apply. A photocopier is available in the FLMC. The library assumes no responsibility for the
quality of the photocopies. Patrons using the photocopier are liable for any copyright
infringement. The library assumes no responsibility in this area.
Challenged Materials
Any faculty or staff member, parent, or student may challenge library resource materials on
the basis of appropriateness. The challenge form may be obtained from the librarian.
Upon receipt of a signed formal request for reconsideration, the principal shall appoint a
Reconsideration Committee of five persons consisting of the librarian and four other
members who will review the challenged item(s). The decision of the Committee is binding.
Additional information on “challenged materials” may be found in the Board-approved
“Collection Development Policy” of the Southwest Christian School Library.
For further information concerning library policies or services, please refer to the “Library
Information Guide” for the current school year. A copy of this document, as well as other
relevant library information, can be found on the SCS web site at
http://www.southwestchristian.org. Under the Student portal, click on Library. A print copy
of both documents is on file in the SCS Prep Campus Library.
73
Textbooks
Required Purchase Textbooks
As a service to parents, Southwest Christian School has contracted with MBS Direct for all
books that parents are required to purchase. Families also have the option to buy or sell
used books at our Book Swap site. The link may be found on the SCS website.
Southwest Christian School is committed to preparing students for the rigors and
expectations of the college experience. In this effort, students registering for Advanced
Placement (AP) classes or dual credit classes are required to purchase their own textbooks
which are used in the same manner as textbooks in college.
As we prepare our students to be Christian leaders, we recognize the importance of students
developing personal libraries of Christian books and resource materials. Through the course
of Bible study, students will be required to buy some textbooks that can be used for personal
notation, reflective study, and future reference. These books are noted on MBS Direct as
well as in the course syllabi. The ESV Student Study Bible from Crossway Publishers will be
used in each Bible class.
Southwest Christian Textbooks
Most textbooks are issued to all students as a part of the tuition structure. In some cases,
fees may be assessed. It is the responsibility of each student to properly care for these
materials. Students must provide their own book covers (NO ADHESIVE COVERS or STRETCH
FABRIC COVERS ALLOWED) and are expected to keep books covered at all times. Students
must not write in books or turn down the pages. Any student who loses or abuses a textbook
or workbook will be required to pay for diamond and/or replacement.
Textbooks issued by the school are considered New, Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor.
Textbook adoptions generally follow a five-year cycle, and some degeneration of a book’s
condition is expected through normal wear-and-tear. However, if a book degenerates more
than one level per year because of student misuse, the student should pay a fine for the
book. Students who lose books must pay for them before they received a report card or
transcript from the school.
Assessment Guidelines
Condition
Criteria
New
First year of use, new from publisher
Excellent
Slight signs of wear on corners and edges, but pages are
crisp with no stray marks. All books should go from “New”
to “Excellent” during the first year of use.
Good
More signs of wear, with some marks on cover, more
damage to edges. Some pages may have crumpling, a few
marks, and may be slightly dirty.
Fair
Book has a “used” appearance with marks on pages and
cover, corners probably bent and pages are beginning to
fray at the edges. The spine may be showing some
weakness.
74
Fine Guidelines
None
None
 25 percent of book cost if student
received the book in new
condition.
 25 percent if student received the
book in Excellent condition
 50 percent of book cost if student
received the book in new
condition.
Poor
The book is barely usable. The covers will have lost their
firmness and the book may be “rubbery.” Pages may be
torn and book may appear to be dirty. Spine may be
broken and pages or cover may be coming loose from the
binding.
 25 percent if student received the
book in Good condition
 50 percent of book cost if student
received the book in excellent
condition.
 75 percent of book cost if student
received the book in new
condition.
A-List for students
 Always cover books and make sure covers wrap around the edges.
 Avoid stretchable book covers – they break the spine faster.
 Avoid using the book as a homework filing system; this also breaks the book’s spine.
 Avoid putting the book open and pages down. This also breaks the book’s spine.
 Although it sounds silly, don’t throw the book, even a short distance.
 All books may be bought from the school if you like to highlight and make notes on
pages.
Middle School/High School Uniform Policy
Our uniform suppliers, Academy Uniforms or Parker School Uniforms, will have items in
stock as you go to replace worn or outgrown items.
Campus
MIDDLE
SCHOOL
Girls
Tops
Uniform
2016-2017
Oxford Shirt (white; short or long
sleeved)
Poplin Blouse (white; ¾ length sleeved)
Polo (white; short or long sleeved)
Bottoms
Skirts (plaid or khaki)
Pants (khaki; flat or pleated)
Jumper (khaki) Logo required
In-School
Outerwear
V-neck long sleeved sweater (navy; SCS
logo)
V-neck sweater vest (navy; SCS logo)
Cardigan sweater (navy; SCS logo)
Micro-fiber fleece (navy; SCS logo)
Charles River jacket (navy, SCS logo)
Solid navy jacket or coat with no accent
colors (may be any brand; may not have
75
Campus
Leggings/
socks/
shoes/
accessories
Campus
MIDDLE
SCHOOL
Boys
Tops
Bottoms
Uniform
2016-2017
any logos or markings larger than 2”x
2”)
Any SCS branded outwear sold or
distributed by the school or Booster
Club or PTO
Ankle or knee high socks, tights, or
leggings with no pattern or accent
colors (navy, gray, black, or white)
Leather belt (brown or black; braided or
flat)
SCS tie (optional)
Shoe options: black or brown leather or
leather-type shoes, or solid black,
brown, navy, gray or white canvas shoes
with no ripped, torn, or frayed edges,
no colored laces, soles or accent colors.
Black, white, or gray running shoes with
no accent colors.
Leather shoes only on formal dress
days-see page 78
Students who present medical
documentation to the Dean of Students
or Principal are allowed to wear black,
white, or gray running shoes as long as
the problem persists.
Black or brown leather or leather-type
sandals with a back-strap and no
excessive accents or ornamentation
Uniform
2016-2017
Oxford Shirt (light blue or white) *
Polo (light blue or white)*
*Long or short sleeved
Rugby style shirt (navy and white;
short sleeved only)
Pants (khaki; flat or pleated)
Shorts (khaki; flat or pleated) Required
on Thursdays:
NO Shorts
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Campus
In-School
Outerwear
Tie/socks/
shoes/belt
MIDDLE
SCHOOL
Boys and
Girls
Embroidery
Campus
Uniform
2016-2017
V-neck long sleeved sweater (navy; SCS
logo)
V-neck sweater vest (navy; SCS logo)
Cardigan sweater (navy; SCS logo)
Micro-fiber fleece (navy; SCS logo)
Charles River jacket (navy, SCS logo)
Solid navy jacket or coat with no
accent colors (may be any brand; may
not have any logos or markings larger
than 2”x 2”)
Any SCS branded outwear sold or
distributed by the school or Booster
Club or PTO
Required on Thursdays:
SCS Tie
Socks (solid navy, gray, tan, black or
white-no accent colors on socks)
Leather belt (brown or black; braided
or flat)
Shoe options: black or brown leather
or leather-type shoes, or solid black,
brown, navy, gray or white canvas
shoes with no ripped, torn, or frayed
edges, no colored laces, soles or accent
colors.
Black, white, or gray running shoes
with no accent colors.
Leather shoes only on formal dress
days-see page 79
Students who present medical
documentation to the Dean of
Students or Principal are allowed to
wear black, white, or gray running
shoes as long as the problem persists
School Logo
Uniform
2016-2017
HIGH SCHOOL
Girls
Oxford Shirt (white; short or long
Tops
sleeved)
Poplin Blouse (white; ¾ length
sleeved)
Polo (white; short or long sleeved)
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Campus
Uniform
2016-2017
Bottoms
Skirts (plaid or khaki)
Pants (khaki; flat or pleated)
Jumper (khaki)-Logo required
In-School
Outerwear
V-neck long sleeved sweater (navy; SCS
logo)
V-neck sweater vest (navy; SCS logo)
Cardigan sweater (navy; SCS logo)
Micro-fiber fleece (navy; SCS logo)
Charles River jacket (navy, SCS logo)
Solid navy jacket or coat with no
accent colors (may be any brand; may
not have any logos or markings larger
than 2”x 2”)
Blazer (navy; SCS logo)
Any SCS branded outwear sold or
distributed by the school or Booster
Club or PTO
Shoe options: black or brown leather
or leather-type shoes, or solid black,
brown, navy, gray or white canvas
shoes with no ripped, torn, or frayed
edges, no colored laces, soles or accent
colors.
Black, white, or gray running shoes
with no accent colors.
Leather shoes only on formal dress
days-see page 79
Leather belt (brown or black; braided
or flat)
Black or brown leather or leather-type
sandals with a back-strap and no
excessive accents or ornamentation
SCS tie (optional)
Leggings/
socks/shoes
HIGH SCHOOL
Boys
Oxford Shirt (white) *
Tops
Polo (white)*
*Long or short sleeved
Rugby style shirt (navy and white;
short sleeved only)
Bottoms
Pants (khaki; flat or pleated)
Shorts (khaki; flat or pleated)
Required on Thursdays: NO Shorts
In-School
Outerwear
V-neck long sleeved sweater (navy; SCS
patch)
V-neck sweater vest (navy; SCS logo)
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Campus
Tie/socks/
shoes/tie
Formal Dress
HIGH SCHOOL
Boys and
Girls
Embroidery
Uniform
2016-2017
Cardigan sweater (navy; SCS logo)
Micro-fiber fleece (navy; SCS logo)
Charles River jacket (navy, SCS logo)
Solid navy, black, or gray jacket or coat
with no accent colors (may be any
brand; may not have any logos or
markings larger than 2”x 2”)
Any SCS branded outwear sold or
distributed by the school or Booster
Club or PTO
Blazer (navy)
Required on Thursdays:
SCS Tie
Socks (navy, gray, tan, black or whiteno accent colors on socks)
Leather belt (brown or black; braided
or flat)
Shoes (black or brown leather or
leather-like)
Tops: White oxford for boys and girls.
Ties required for boys, optional for
girls.
Bottoms: Khaki pants for boys or girls;
skirt or jumper for girls
Shoes: Black or brown leather or
leather like only.
School logo
All Prep Campus Students
Outerwear:



All SCS issued outerwear (athletic, booster club, fine arts, etc.)
Monogrammed SCS sweatshirts or SCS fleece jackets (not hooded sweatshirt)
Students must have standard SCS dress under any outerwear.
Spirit Day:




Blue jeans without tears or holes
Any SCS issued t-shirt – may be worn untucked
Any SCS issued sweatshirt, hooded sweatshirt, or jacket
Girls may wear UGG boots, riding boots or comparable boots – any color, year round
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General Rules Applying to All Prep Campus Students
Appearance:
 No flip flops, athletic sandals, or house shoes. Western boots are acceptable only with pants.
 Dresses and skirts cannot exceed three inches above the knee.
 No excessively tight clothing.
 No torn or frayed edges.
 No revealing necklines or open backs.
 Undergarments or non-uniform clothing layers must not be visible at any time.
 No bare midriffs.
 Solid white, black or gray socks are required when appropriate.
 Belts are required with looped pants/shorts.
 Boys’ shirts other than the striped rugby shirt must be tucked in at all times. Girls’ blouses or
knit shirts may be worn untucked. Shirts with tails must be tucked in at all times.
 Jewelry and makeup should not be distracting; earrings are allowed for girls only.
 No visible tattoos.
 Caps are not allowed except during athletic events and practices at coach’s discretion.
 No body piercings.
 “Ugg”-style boots, riding boots or comparable boots may be worn on Spirit Days only, no
color restrictions.
Grooming:
 Hair must be neatly groomed and naturally colored.
 Boys’ hair must be above the collar.
 Boys must be clean shaven. No beards or mustaches are allowed and sideburns must not
extend below the ears.
 Boys are not allowed to wear make-up or nail polish.
When Uniforms are Worn
All SCS students are required to wear the designated uniform to school each day unless it is a
designated “Out of Uniform” or “Spirit Day.” Uniforms will be worn on all school field trips
and/or other school trips where SCS students travel away from the SCS campus. If a student
does not have on the appropriate dress for a field trip, he or she will not be allowed to
participate.
Uniform or Dress Code Violations
Middle and High School
A uniform or dress code infraction is defined as any item(s), style, or type of apparel that
does not appear in the section describing SCS required uniforms or dress code. Anyone who
violates the rules will be handled on an individual basis and in the following manner:
 When a student is out of uniform, the parents will be notified and will be required to
bring the appropriate clothing in order for the student to return to class.
 Subsequent violations can result in suspension.
 If a student does not have on the appropriate dress for a scheduled field trip, he or she
forfeits the right to go on the field trip.
 Dress code violations result in demerits. (See demerit policy, page 86.)
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Game Day Dress Code Athletes may wear attire approved in advance by sponsors working
in concert with the school principal.
Dress Code- shoes
In the event that a student needs to wear a pair of athletic shoes because of a medical
condition they should bring the doctor’s note to the Dean of Students or Middle School
Principal within one school day of the doctor’s visit. If the need for alternate footwear is for
fewer than three days they may wear any reasonable athletic shoe. If the condition will
require them to be in athletic shoes for more than three days the shoes must be a dominant
color of black, white, or gray with no significant alternate color.
SENIOR FRIDAY DRESS CODE – 2nd SEMESTER
(ALSO USED FOR OTHER GRADES WHEN APPROVED TO BE OUT OF UNIFORM)
Senior dress code is an option for seniors on Friday. This option is available in addition to
the regular Friday spirit day dress code. The dress code follows business casual guidelines
and is consistent with regular SCS dress code guidelines regarding skirt length, necklines, and
sleeves on shirts.
 Dress pants with a belt, if there are belt loops
 Denim jeans without holes, tears or fringes (belts required/appropriate fit)
 Business casual shirts or blouses with sleeves
 Business casual skirts or dresses no shorter than 3” above the front and back of the
knee
 Guys can wear dress shorts.
 Shirts with a ribbed straight hem do not need to be tucked in. All other shirts must be
tucked in.
 No big lettering or logos/no inappropriate sayings
 College shirts and small logos (such as Polo) are acceptable.
 Please note that Senior Friday dress code does not include leisure wear.
Discipline and Student Behavior
All students are to understand clearly that in order to maintain high standards of behavior,
the school reserves the right to take appropriate disciplinary action in the case of any
student guilty of misconduct, whether occurring on or off the school campus. A student who
enters SCS becomes identified with the school – the school is judged by the way students
conduct themselves. A student’s conduct must reflect favorably on the student and on the
school at all times.
One of the most important lessons education should teach is discipline. While discipline
does not appear as a subject, it underlines the whole educational structure and is the
training that develops self-control, character, orderliness, and efficiency. The ultimate
objective of school discipline is to help prepare and support young people in establishing
acceptable standards of self-discipline.
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Students are trained to take responsibility for their own conduct. However, there are times
when direction and enforcement in the area of school policy are necessary. School
administration is charged with the final responsibility to see that students abide by the
school’s standards. Minor infractions are to be handled by the teacher. School
administration handles more serious violations or repeated violations. Before final decisions
are made in regard to serious violations, the administration may counsel with those people
who have a close relationship with the student such as teachers, counselor, advisor,
coaches, and parents. He/she may also consider the opinions of student leaders who have
been elected to represent the student body.
Disciplinary action will be administered as uniformly and consistently as possible, while at
the same time recognizing that each student and each incident must be assessed
individually in regard to background, attitude, and repetition. In cases where a student is
responsible for the destruction of materials, equipment, etc., belonging to SCS, replacement
cost will be assessed.
Above all other factors, it must be stressed that any student requested to appear before the
administration should be prepared to offer, without hesitation, the fullest possible
completely truthful statement.
Classroom Conduct-Preparatory Campus
Students are expected to work with faculty in maintaining a classroom atmosphere
conducive to learning. A student shall not disrupt a class by making unnecessary noise,
talking without permission, keeping others from doing assigned class work, sleeping,
refusing to keep his/her head up off the desk top, refusing to pay proper attention to the
teacher, eating food, chewing gum, or being a participant in any action that will distract from
a learning atmosphere. A student will be in class on time and have the materials needed for
class including the proper textbook, paper, pencil and other items designated by the teacher.
When necessary, teachers will refer students to an administrator for disciplinary action.
General Rules of Conduct
1.
Attending SCS should be considered a privilege and students’ behavior, both on and
off campus, should be consistent with the school’s mission and values. Any illegal or
inappropriate behavior on or off campus may result in disciplinary action.
2.
All school rules apply on all field trips and on all school-sponsored events on the
school campus and away from the campus.
3.
Knives, firearms, or any other implements designed to be used as weapons are
strictly prohibited from SCS buildings, grounds, and vehicles parked on campus.
Possession of such implements can result in student suspension or expulsion and
possible criminal prosecution.
4.
The use of tobacco, intoxicants, and drugs is prohibited. The use or the possession of
any of these can result in suspension or dismissal from school.
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5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Chewing gum will not be allowed at SCS. Food and drinks are not allowed in
classrooms without special permission. A $3.00 fine will be assessed to a student not
following this policy. Hard candy may be permitted by some teachers.
The use of obscenities, profanity or vulgarity will not be allowed.
Gambling in any form is prohibited.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly and respectful manner in
the halls and on school grounds.
Public display of affection on campus will not be allowed. Students will follow a strict
“keep your hands to yourself” policy, which includes: no rough housing, no public
display of affection, no tripping, pushing, etc.
Proper care of all school property is the responsibility of everyone. All students must
do their part to keep the buildings attractive and make the utmost use of all the
facilities. Any students known to deface or destroy property will be assessed the full
cost of repairs and be subject to disciplinary action.
It is expected that students will adhere to general standards of order by cleaning up
all areas (i.e., classrooms, grounds, gymnasium, buses, etc.) following student
activities. Failure to do so could result in loss of privileges.
Since safety is of utmost importance, students are required to be accompanied and
supervised by an administrator, teacher, coach, or school endorsed sponsor when
utilizing SCS facilities. Students not authorized to be on campus before or after
regular school hours will be in violation of school regulations and will be considered
trespassing.
Student Harassment and Hazing Policy
SCS at all times is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment free of
harassment and intimidation; therefore, harassment of or by a board member, parent,
volunteer, administrator, faculty member, staff member, student or guest is strictly
forbidden. Harassment can include, but is not limited to the following:
 An unwanted physical advance or verbal approach.
 Unwanted reference to one’s physical appearance, religion, race, color, creed, sex, or
ethnic origin.
 Unwanted physical contact.
 Implicit or explicit threats against one’s academic safety or security.
 Unsolicited gestures or comments.
Registering a Complaint: Any student who believes he or she has been the victim of
harassment is encouraged to report and discuss the alleged act immediately to the principal
and to a parent. A conference will be scheduled immediately to determine the best course
of action.
Sexual Conduct
Southwest Christian School subscribes to the scripturally based teaching that sexual intimacy
is one of God’s gifts which is intended to be enjoyed within the bounds of marriage between
a man and a woman. Outside of marriage, such intimacy is a lapse of Christian conduct.
Violation of this policy can result in disciplinary action including dismissal from school.
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Conception and Parenthood
We believe that life, both before and after birth, is a gift from God. Parenthood requires
mature understandings of self-sacrifice and commitment while placing the new life as a
priority. These understandings apply to both the mother and the father. Active parenting
involves, but is not limited to, the legal responsibility for a child’s life from the time of
conception.
Student Pregnancy
1) Families are asked to contact school administration immediately. Our administration
will work directly with families as next steps are determined. In this process,
communications between the prospective parents, grandparents, pastors, counselors
and any outside social agencies deemed appropriate by the families involved will be
reviewed.
2) Following these discussions, it will be determined if it is in the best interests of the
student to withdraw from SCS or if it is in the best interests of the student to remain
at SCS as a non-traditional student.
3) Non-traditional students have the opportunity to continue academic studies at SCS
while transitioning to the responsibilities of parenthood. Support services can
include continuing monitored academic programming, academic guidance services,
Bible faculty support, and tutorial time before and after school. Graduation
requirement can be expedited and an SCS diploma can be earned. Please note that
non-traditional students do not have access to instructors during the traditional
school day or extra-curricular activities. (For more details on “non-traditional” status
please see page 56 in this handbook.
Locker Room Conduct Policy
SCS understands the necessity for limited supervision in locker rooms in order to provide
appropriate privacy for students; therefore, a considerable amount of trust and selfgovernance must be extended to, and practiced by, students using such facilities. Locker
rooms are for the exclusive purposes of storing personal and school-issued belongings (of
which the student is solely responsible) essential to school activities, and for changing
clothes associated with school sponsored activities. Socializing, studying, waiting for classes
to begin or end, making phone calls, loitering, or any other activity unrelated to the explicit
purposes listed above are forbidden.
Students utilizing locker rooms are subject to the following guidelines in addition to the
code of conduct outlined on page 82 of this handbook:
 Using any device to take a photo or video of any kind is strictly prohibited.
 Bullying, aggressive behavior, unwanted/unsolicited physical contact or advances,
crude or lewd language, or derogatory comments towards others will not be
tolerated. As detailed in the handbook, such acts are contrary to the school’s code of
conduct, however, more stringent expectations of conduct will be applied to locker
rooms.
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Lockers and Personal Belongings
 Locks are to be secured on lockers anytime a student is not physically present with
his or her personal belongings.
 Tampering with or attempting to gain access to another student’s locker or personal
belongings, regardless as to whether or not they are secured, is strictly prohibited.
Violation of the above-mentioned conduct agreements will result in disciplinary action
including the possibility of:
 Termination of locker room access/utilization
 Removal from athletics/PE
 Suspension from school for up to 10 days
 Expulsion from SCS
Reporting Procedure:
In the event a student witnesses the violation of the Locker Room Conduct Policy, or any
other activity that causes a concern, it is expected that the student report it immediately to
a school official such as a principal, coach or teacher, as well as to his or her parent. When
appropriate, a conference will then be held to determine the best course of action to
address the concern.
Cell Phones – Middle School
Using, displaying, or having in audible operational mode, a cell phone, paging device, mp3
player, handheld gaming device or other telecommunications device at school during the
school day without teacher permission is prohibited. Such devices are distracting and
disruptive in the learning environment. They are also prohibited on class trips. Cell phones
must remain in backpacks, turned off, until dismissal time. Students who do not adhere to
this policy will have their electronic devices confiscated. Devices may be retrieved from the
200 office following payment of a $25 fine. Additional infractions will result in an
assignment of Saturday School and a fine. We ask that parents refrain from calling or
sending text messages to students during the school day. Important messages can be
forwarded to students through the office.
Cell Phones-High School
Cell phones are permitted to be used by students while outside of school buildings and in
the lunch room. Students are not allowed to display or use cell phones during school hours
while inside a school building (other than the lunch room) unless authorized by school
personnel. If a phone is displayed while in a school building, it will be confiscated and sent
to the Dean of Students’ designee. Students will pay a $25 fine in order to retrieve the item.
On a second offense, and each thereafter, a $25 fine will be issued along with a Saturday
School Detention.
Academic Integrity Policy
Southwest Christian School is dedicated to graduating young adults who are prepared for
college level study and Christian leadership. Students are expected to produce work that
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reflects honorable behavior and ethical standards. Work that does not meet these criteria is
not acceptable. Plagiarism and cheating are considered serious offenses in our behavior
code and will be handled according to the guidelines listed below.
Middle School






Parents are contacted by teacher
Student receives a zero on the assignment
Student will submit an alternative assignment at the discretion of the teacher
Student meets with the teacher and principal
Student is assigned at least one Saturday School
Student’s citizenship grade drops one level for the affected class
High School
 Parents are contacted by teacher
 Student receives a zero on the assignment
 Student will submit an alternative assignment at the discretion of the teacher
 Student meets with the teacher and principal
 Student is assigned one day of In-School Suspension or two Saturday Schools
 Student’s citizenship grade drops one level for the affected class
Additionally, incidents of academic dishonesty may result in a student’s probation for
membership in the National Honor Society or service on the Student or Class Council.
Plagiarism
Instances of plagiarism are taken seriously. To plagiarize is to use the words or ideas of
another person as if they were your own words or ideas. Administrators will work with
faculty and students to determine appropriate disciplinary measures which may include loss
of credit, additional assignments, and suspension. For incidents of plagiarism, students must
complete a three-page writing assignment on academic dishonesty.
Important Note: Students registered for dual credit classes will lose eligibility for college
credit in the event plagiarism occurs.
Repeated incidences of academic dishonesty may result in expulsion.
Discipline- Demerit System
We recognize that students will make mistakes. The Demerit system establishes procedures
to curb inappropriate behavior and to avoid undue punishment of occasional mistakes.
Students are afforded the opportunity to serve up to two detentions each 9 weeks. Each 20
minute detention will take away one demerit. The demerit system is not intended to replace
or alter a teacher’s authority. Serious or chronic behavior infractions are punishable by
immediate consequences, such as suspensions, and therefore are not subject to the Demerit
system.
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Demerits
Students found to be in violation of school rules will be assigned demerits for their
misbehavior. The number of demerits assigned for infractions ranges from one (1) to five
(5). Demerits are cumulative. Parents are notified about demerits via RenWeb. Five
demerits result in one day of Saturday School.
Demerit slips will be filled out and submitted to the 200 building office for the following
infractions:
 Unexcused tardy to class
 Dress code violations
 Gum chewing
 Inappropriate behavior
 Unauthorized electronic device usage
Demerits are cumulative and will be reset to zero at the beginning of each quarter. Parents
are notified by email each time a demerit is received. The following actions are taken as
demerits accumulate within a quarter grading period:
Demerit
1-4
5
Action
Email notification to Parent
Completion of Saturday School results in three demerits
removed for HS and four for MS
It should be noted that dress code infractions significant enough to prevent classroom
attendance will require parents to immediately bring the appropriate school attire needed
to attend class.
Demerit Management
It is the student’s responsibility to monitor and manage demerits to avoid consequences
such as Saturday School. Students may self-report to lunch detention for middle school or
morning detention for high school to have a demerit removed. Twenty minutes of detention
will remove one demerit. This option can be utilized twice each nine weeks. Students with
four or fewer demerits may request a service opportunity rather than detention. Such
requests should be submitted to administration.
Classroom Discipline
 The teacher maintains normal classroom discipline by giving conduct lowering
infractions when necessary: 0-2=E, 3-5=S, 6-8=N, 9 or more=U.
 All infractions are entered into RenWeb under student discipline. On the third
classroom infraction and each one thereafter, the teacher will issue a demerit.
Students are notified when they receive a demerit. After a student receives five
demerits, he/she will be scheduled for Saturday School. Students start with a clean
slate each nine weeks. In the case of a severe or frequent disruption, the teacher
may bypass the order of consequences and issue a demerit or send a discipline writeup to the principal.
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
Other causes for demerits:
1.
Gum ($3 fine sent to office)
2.
Out of dress code
3.
Tardy
4.
Cell phone or other electronic device on or out during
the school day ($25 fine and phone sent to office,
Saturday School added on subsequent offenses).
Merits-Middle School
Merit points are assigned to reward improved student behavior and/or academic standing.
Merits do not offset a demerit; rather they are simply a more formal form of acknowledging
a student’s extra effort. Students may accumulate merits by being nominated by a
classroom teacher or staff member for exemplary behavior.
Potential Disciplinary Actions
Disciplinary Conference
The student will meet with the principal to discuss the violated school policy. The purpose of
this meeting is to determine consequences for the behavior and establish a behavior plan for
improved behavior.
Probation
A student who does not demonstrate improved behavior will be placed on probation with an
individualized conduct plan. This plan will be designed by administration, parents, and the
student. If probation is broken, suspension or dismissal from school will result.
Saturday School
Saturday School will be served on designated Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Students who are required to attend will be notified in advance, by referral, as to the
appropriate room location to report. A parent signed referral is required for admittance and
a $10 fee will be billed through RenWeb. Students who are tardy will not be admitted and
will be reassigned an additional Saturday School assignment after the current one is made
up. Students are required to bring study materials and homework to work on during this
time. In the event a student does not bring something to work on, the teacher on duty will
assign work to be completed by the conclusion of the detention. During the assigned time of
detention, students are ineligible for all SCS co-curricular events. Students are required to
wear their SCS uniforms to Saturday School.
School Suspension
It is the responsibility of students to acquire, complete, and turn in assignments on time
during assigned school suspensions to avoid late work consequences. Assignments turned in
late will be subject to the late work policy. Please refer to page 58 for the late work policies
for grades 7-12.
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In-School Suspension
In-school suspension will result in the assignment of two hours of community service per day
suspended for middle school students and four hours of community service per day
suspended for high school students. The student is required to have administration preapprove fulfillment of the community service requirement prior to service, assign a
completion date, and approve documentation upon completion. Failure to complete
community service requirements may result in additional suspension. Community service
completed to satisfy disciplinary consequences may not be used to fulfill Christian Service
requirements. During the hours of in-school suspension, the student is ineligible for
extracurricular activities. Students may resume extracurricular activities upon completion of
in-school suspension.
Out-of-School Suspension
Out-of-school suspension will result in the assignment of two hours of community service
per day suspended for middle school students and four hours of community service per day
suspended for high school students. The student is required to have administration preapprove fulfillment of the community service requirement prior to service, assign a
completion date, and approve documentation upon completion. Community service
completed to satisfy disciplinary consequences may not be used to fulfill Christian Service
requirements. Failure to complete community service requirements may result in additional
suspension.
The principal or his/her designee is authorized to suspend a student for up to ten days.
When a student is suspended, parents may be required to attend a conference before the
student is admitted back in school. During the assigned time of detention, students are
ineligible for all SCS extracurricular events for the entire 24-hour period of the assigned
day(s). Students may resume extracurricular activities upon completion of out-of-school
suspension.
Disclosure Policy
As a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling, Southwest
Christian School, upon request, will report to colleges and universities all disciplinary actions
taken during grades 9 – 12 that result in a student’s out-of-school suspension or dismissal
from the school. This includes, but is not limited to, schools which use the Common
Application. Should senior students be subject to disciplinary action(s) after they have
applied or been admitted to college(s), both the student and the college counseling office
will notify the colleges in writing when required.
Dismissal Policy
The President may dismiss or refuse re-admission of any student whose attitude or general
deportment seems detrimental to the best interests of the students or the school.
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Grievance/Appeals Procedure
It is important that everyone involved with our school understand the flow of information
and authority. This understanding is critical to our ability to solve problems and speak
concerns as they develop. If a problem cannot be resolved at the source, the appropriate
levels of authority are as follows:
 Teacher
 Principal
 President
 If the matter cannot be resolved it should then be brought to the Board in the following
way:
o The matter should be submitted in writing to the Chairman of the Board for
review.
o The matter will be considered and a response issued as soon as possible.
Acceptable Use Policy & Agreement
Southwest Christian School provides an exciting opportunity to enhance, support, and
expand learning through the use of electronic information resources. With this opportunity
comes the requirement for students to use technology appropriately and responsibly.
Electronic information resources are defined as computers or other hardware owned by SCS,
the computer network, privately owned computers or mobile devices that access the
school’s network, e-mail accounts, any computer software licensed to SCS, and stored data.
This policy governs the use of SCS computers and electronic information resources and
defines students’ proper conduct and responsibilities while using this technology.
SCS strives to provide excellent technology resources that meet the following four
technology values.




Communication: Collaboration and communication between students, teachers,
administration and parents.
Digital Citizenship: Ethics and etiquette for appropriate, responsible behavior with
regard to technology use.
Productivity: Creation, consumption, and organization of various media, documents
and data.
Innovation: Keeping pace with technology by introducing new methods, ideas and
products and using technology for new purposes.
We request that you and your student carefully read this document prior to signing.
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Digital Citizenship
Digital Access
Digital access is defined as full electronic participation in society.
Acceptable Use. Students may have access to the school’s resources for academic
related activity. Students, parents, teachers, and staff will have access to:
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Computers, printers, and other peripheral hardware.
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Video cameras and iPads
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Information and news on websites from universities, government institutions,
museums, schools, technology, non-profit organizations, and commercial sites.
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Newsgroups on a variety of topics, including science, history, math, and literature.
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Databases providing thousands of periodicals and other publications.
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Public domain software and shareware
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Licensed software.
Student Accounts. Each student will be given an individual network account upon
the return of this Acceptable Use Policy and Agreement signed by the student and
parent. No student will be permitted to use an SCS computer until an Acceptable Use
Policy and Agreement is on file. Students may occasionally be required to update
account information and/or password to continue network access. Parents must
notify the school of any changes in your account information. Students who believe
their password has been compromised should notify a teacher or school
administrator and request a password reset.
Students are responsible at all times for the proper use of their SCS network user
account.
Unacceptable Use. Sharing usernames and passwords with other students.
Consequences for Sharing Student Usernames and passwords.
1st offense: Demerits are issued to both parties and accounts are disabled until
meeting with the Campus Technologist. Warning agreement issued and signed by
student.
2nd offense: Meeting with Dean of Students and/or Principal. Saturday school issued.
Accounts are disabled until meeting with the Campus Technologist.
3rd and subsequent offenses: Meet with the Dean of Students and/or Principal for
appropriate discipline. Accounts are disabled until a term determined by the Dean of
Students and/or Principal.
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Digital Commerce
Digital Commerce is defined as the buying and selling of goods online.
Acceptable Use. Students should know how to protect their identity and avoid scams
online.
Unacceptable Use. Students should not use SCS computers for non-SCS product
advertisement or commercial activities, including the buying or selling of goods.
Digital Communication
Digital communication is defined as the electronic exchange of information.
Acceptable Use. Students may use SCS technology to communicate with others at
the direction of the instructor. Students may email instructors at their SCS email only.
Students may also use web 2.0 technology such as blogs, wikis or EagleSpace at the
direction of the instructor.
E-Mail. Students may use Southwest Christian School’s network or computer
resources to access and check personal e-mail accounts (example: @yahoo.com,
@aol.com, @gmail.com, etc.) only for school-related purposes. Students in grades 812 will be issued a SCS Gmail account to use for school communications.
Unacceptable Use. Students should not use SCS computers for political lobbying or
for posting false or defamatory information about a person or organization. Students
may not use SCS technology for non-SCS related chat room discussions or instant
messaging.
Texting. Students are not to text inside of the buildings during the school day, with
exception of HS students in the lunch room. Students who are out of class or who are
off campus because of early release may not contact their peers during the class day.
In addition, parents should direct communication to students through the school
office rather than texting students. Text communications that originate outside the
boundaries of the school and outside school hours but which affect the reputation of
other students or reflect behavior that is not keeping with the Student Code of
Conduct may be subject to disciplinary sanctions. Every effort will be made to
reconcile parties through parent/teacher/administrator conferences.
Social network postings. The school does not seek out social network postings, but
when they are brought to the attention of administration, students will be held to
the code of conduct they signed and agreed to upon becoming students at Southwest
Christian School. Images or words depicting illegal or immoral behavior will result in a
parent conference and may lead to sanctions being imposed by the school.
Cell Phones – Middle School
Using, displaying, or having in audible operational mode, a cell phone, paging device,
mp3 player, handheld gaming device or other telecommunications device at school
during the school day without teacher permission is prohibited. Such devices are
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distracting and disruptive in the learning environment. They are also prohibited on
class trips. Cell phones must remain in backpacks, turned off, until dismissal time.
Students who do not adhere to this policy will have their electronic devices
confiscated. Devices may be retrieved from the 200 office following payment of a
$25 fine. Additional infractions will result in an assignment of Saturday School and a
fine. We ask that parents refrain from calling or sending text messages to students
during the school day. Important messages can be forwarded to students through
the office.
Cell Phones-High School
Cell phones are permitted to be used by students while outside of school buildings
and in the lunch room. Students are not allowed to display or use cell phones during
school hours while inside a school building (other than the lunch room) unless
authorized by school personnel. If a phone is displayed, without permission, while in
a school building, it will be confiscated and sent to the Dean of Students’ designee.
Students will pay a $25 fine in order to retrieve the item. On a second offense, and
each thereafter, a $25 fine will be issued along with a Saturday School Detention.
Digital literacy
Digital literacy is defined as knowing when and how to use digital technology to obtain and
share information.
Acceptable Use. Students may use online resources, such as databases, videos,
online courses, and informational sites to aid their learning efforts. Care should be
taken to ensure the accuracy of any online content.
Unacceptable Use. Students should not consider basic Internet searches or
undocumented web postings as factual, reliable resources for research.
Digital Etiquette
Digital etiquette is defined as the standards of conduct that are respectful toward other
digital technology users.
Acceptable Use. Students should practice e-mail etiquette by being polite, not
using obscene or vulgar language and should choose words carefully to avoid
misunderstandings. Students should keep in mind that electronic text is devoid of
any context clues which convey irony, sarcasm, or harmful humor.
Unacceptable Use. Students should not use SCS technology to communicate in
class about non-class related issues. Students should not act in any way that results
in any harm to others.
Cyberbullying. Cyberbullying involves the use of technology to create communication
of words or images that cause harm to others. This includes, but is not limited to, the
use of the Internet, social networking, or cell phones to intimidate, harm or ridicule
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another student. The board, administration, and faculty at SCS considers
cyberbullying, regardless of whether the communication is created or occurs on or
off campus, to be a direct violation of our Student Code of Conduct. Consequently,
any student who supports or participates in any form of cyberbullying of another
student will be subject to disciplinary actions at school, up to and including
withdrawal from Southwest Christian School.
Digital law
Digital law is defined as the legal rights and restrictions governing technology use.
Acceptable Use. At the discretion of the teacher, students may download free and
non-copyrighted material. If students are unsure about whether material is
copyrighted, they should seek help from their teacher to ensure that they are in in
compliance with fair use practices. Students may make copies of purchased
copyrighted material only to have a duplicate for themselves.
Unacceptable Use. Students should not download copyrighted music from filesharing sites such as Kazaa. Students also may not create copies of copyrighted
materials to distribute to anyone other than the original owner. Copying copyrighted
material for the sake of purchase or free sharing is illegal. Students should also not
post information that could be disruptive, cause damage, or endanger students or
staff.
Digital Rights and Responsibilities
Digital rights and responsibilities are defined as the privileges and freedoms extended to all
digital technology users and the behavioral expectations that come with them.
Acceptable Use. Students should take care to cite appropriate sources when using
information for class assignments. If the students are unsure about whether or not to
cite a source, they should consult their instructor.
Internet Use. Southwest Christian School offers Internet access for student use. Users
of the Internet are expected to abide by the network guidelines and policy. Each
student is automatically given access to the Internet when they receive their network
account. The use of the Internet at SCS is not a right, but a privilege, and
inappropriate use can result in the suspension of that privilege. Transmission of any
material in violation of any national or state regulation is prohibited. This includes,
but is not limited to, copyrighted materials, threatening or obscene material, or
material protected by trade secret. In addition, consumption of inappropriate media
(photos, videos, and / or audio, etc.) is prohibited. Violators will be subject to
disciplinary action. SCS administration holds the right to judge the appropriateness of
all media consumed at school.
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Unacceptable Use. Students may not use SCS computer technology to download or
stream music or video files unless under the direction of an instructor. Students also
may not use SCS technology to access non-school based social networking websites,
including, but not limited to Facebook, Xanga, or MySpace.
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Note: Uploading photos and/or video to the Internet of individuals (students or staff)
without their permission is strictly prohibited. Any student found to be in violation
will be referred to his or her administrator for appropriate discipline. The student will
be responsible for taking down the original image and communicating with the
student or staff member whose privacy has been violated. Using any device to take a
photo or video of any kind in the locker room is strictly prohibited.
Personal Entertainment Devices (PEDs). Students are not allowed to use iPods or
other PEDs in class unless the teacher has approved such use for classroom
instruction. Media players may be used during study hall and during art class at the
discretion of the supervising teacher. PEDs may be used during classroom study
times at the discretion of administration. Media players and earbuds should not be
visible in the hallways and common areas during school hours. If a student is seen
with any type of PED while school is in session, other than at the discretion of a
teacher in the classroom, the device will be confiscated and the student will be
required to pay a fine of $25 to retrieve it. On subsequent offenses, students will be
fined $25 and be assigned to Saturday School.
Privacy Laws: Right of privacy laws do not protect users of the school network. SCS
reserves the right to monitor all use of all information technology.
Digital Health and Wellness
Digital health and wellness is defined as the elements of physical and psychological wellbeing related to digital technology use.
Acceptable Use. When using SCS technology, students should use proper ergonomics
and avoid repetitive motions which can cause injury. Students should set limits with
regards to time spent using technology, and stick to those limits.
Unacceptable Use. Students should not use technology in positions that can cause
bodily harm. Repetitive use of technology can cause injury if proper ergonomics are
not used. Students also should not use technology for extended periods of time to
avoid injury, and/or potential behavior that can lead to Internet addiction.
Internet Addiction. Internet addiction is a serious problem, and if left unattended can
lead to serious personal, professional, and family related problems now or later in
life. Students who believe they may be addicted to the Internet or other technology
should consult the school’s guidance counselors or talk with their parents
themselves.
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Digital Security
Digital security is defined as the precautions all technology users must take to guarantee
their personal safety and security of their network.
Acceptable Use. Security is a high priority. Students who identify a security problem
must notify a teacher or school administrator immediately. They should not identify
the problem to other students. Students should change passwords frequently and
use passwords that contain at least eight characters using a combination of numbers,
alpha characters, and symbols. Avoid the use of personal identifiers when creating
passwords.
Unacceptable Use. Students are to keep their network account and password
confidential; sharing account information and/or password is prohibited. Under no
circumstances is a student allowed to use another student’s computer account.
Students should avoid sharing too much personal information, which can lead to
fraud or personal danger.
Network use. Use of the network to access proxy servers to circumvent systems set
in place by SCS to prevent misuse of computers resources is prohibited. Students
who violate this policy are subject to suspension of their computer privileges.
Attempts to log onto the network as a system administrator will result in cancellation
of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the
school’s computer systems.
School Owned Technology Hardware and Software
The heavy usage of school computers increases the challenge of maintaining them in the
best possible condition. Students must be good stewards of the equipment they use and will
be responsible for breakage or tampering of any kind. Students should observe the following
policies:
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Computers are to be used for school related purposes only.
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Video cameras, still cameras, iPads or other PED's must be checked out and may not
be loaned to others.
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Students should save files and their personal file on the server, online storage such as
Dropbox or on a portable storage device such as a flash drive.
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Students should not make unnecessary printouts.
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Students are not to misuse or abuse hardware and will be responsible for repairs or
replacements result from mishandling.
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Students are not to change or manipulate software or operating environments.
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Storage devices used at home must be scanned for viruses before use on any
computer in the SCS system.
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Neither parents nor students are to try to repair computer malfunctions or
breakdowns. Such situations should be immediately reported to a supervising
teacher, the IT Director, or the Campus Technologist.
Privately Owned Technology Hardware and Software
Students may bring their own computers or mobile devices to SCS for academic use. As with
any use of technology on campus, the frequency and extent that the device may be used in
class is determined by the instructor. At this time only approved SCS students may log onto
the SCS wireless networking using their approved login access only. SCS is not responsible for
maintenance, repairs or support of privately owned devices. Students must agree to the
installation of applications that protect the network from intrusion of harmful virus, or
malware. Once a student has accessed the network from a private device, all policies in this
AUP are in full force.
Students are responsible for preventing loss or damage to their own privately owned
devices. SCS is not responsible for any loss, theft, or accidental damage of a privately owned
device, unless it results from direct negligence by a Southwest Christian School employee.
Any reports of loss or damage should be reported to the appropriate grade-level principal.
Mobile or Shared WiFi Hotspots
The use of cellular data such as 3G or 4G mobile devices is prohibited unless approved by the
instructor. In addition, using cellular data to create mobile or shared WIFI hotspots is
prohibited at all times.
eBooks
Students may use eBooks as an alternative to traditional books for personal and some
academic reading purposes. At this time, eBooks are not allowed to be used during openbook assessments, unless specifically allowed by the instructor. Students who have created
annotations on an eBook should make arrangements to print those notes for use on an open
book assessment. The instructor, in advance of the assessment, must approve these notes.
As with any use of technology at SCS, the classroom teacher has the discretion to determine
when, how, and to what extent technology may be used for instructional purposes.
Questions regarding the use of eBooks in a specific course should be directed to the
respective instructor.
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Internet Warning
With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of
material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school
setting. While Southwest Christian School uses a content filtering device, there may be some
material or individual communications which are not suitable for school-aged children.
Southwest Christian School views information gathered from the Internet in the same
manner as the reference materials identified by the school. Specifically, the school supports
the resources that will enhance the learning environment with directed guidance from the
faculty and staff. However, it is impossible to control all material on a global network and an
industrious user may discover inappropriate information. At school, student access to and
use of the Internet will be under teacher direction and will be monitored as any other
classroom activity. The school, however, cannot prevent the possibility that some users may
access material that is not consistent with the educational mission, goals and policies of the
school.
Southwest Christian School makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or
implied, for the service it is providing. The school will not be responsible for the accuracy or
quality of information obtained through the Internet connection.
COPPA Compliance Notice
The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act was created to protect children under the age
of 13 years old with regard to their personal information online. SCS will obtain personal
information (ex. Name of student) from students for online academic purposes. The student
can give additional personal information, but the school cannot require information in
addition to what is reasonably necessary. For children under the age of 13, parental consent
is required. Parents of children under the age of 13 have the right to refuse any personal
information be collected online. In addition, if the parent does consent to allow SCS to
collect personal information online, the parent has the right to request that any information
pertaining to their student be deleted from the site at any time. SCS does not share a
student’s personal information with any third parties, and the personal information is not
visible to anyone outside of authorized users of the SCS sites. Examples of such sites would
include EagleSpace, Moodle, or WikiSpaces. By signing the AUP you are consenting to SCS
collecting personal information for school related online purposes. If you do not wish for
your student’s personal information to be collected by such SCS sites, please contact Dr.
Matthew Winn, Campus Technologist at [email protected] or 817.294.9596,
Ext. 429.
Monitoring
Students should be advised that computer activity is monitored and recorded while the
student is on campus at SCS. (It is worth noting that such monitoring cannot happen outside
of our wireless network while students are off campus.) This includes websites visited and
applications used. This is done to protect student safety, to keep students on task, and to
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establish an environment of accountability and integrity in keeping with the mission and
values of Southwest Christian School.
Examples of Misuse: Examples would include, but are not limited to, any violation to the
Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), sharing of any privilege granted to the student with other
students who are not a part of the enrichment opportunity, or refusal to follow the
directions given by SCS faculty and administration as it pertains to the use of a student’s
personal device.
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PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN TO SCS PREP CAMPUS
STUDENT AGREEMENT: I understand and will abide by the Acceptable Use Policy and
Agreement through Southwest Christian School. I further understand that any violation of
the terms and conditions of the Agreement or school policies may constitute a criminal
offense. Violations may result in losing my access privileges and school disciplinary action
may be initiated against me.
Student signature:
Date:
Student name (PRINTED):
PARENT OR GUARDIAN (Also required even if applicant is over the age of 18) As the parent
or guardian of this student, I have read the Acceptable Use Policy and Agreement for use of
the computer network and computers, including the Internet at Southwest Christian School.
I understand that this access is designed solely for educational purposes and Southwest
Christian School has taken reasonable precautions to supervise Internet usage. However, I
also recognize that it is impossible for the school to restrict unsupervised access to all
information or materials and I will not hold them responsible for materials acquired on the
network. I also accept full responsibility for supervision of my child or ward outside of the
school setting and at home. I hereby give permission to establish a network account and an
internet based e-mail account for my child and certify that the information contained on this
application is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
I have read the above and discussed with my student:
Parent/Guardian Signature:
Date:
Parent/Guardian Names (Please Print):
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Co-curricular Activities
School Activities
Student service organizations comprise a vital part of the total education program at SCS.
These organizations provide a needed opportunity for students to exercise leadership,
responsibility, and initiative in a setting designed to encourage independence and mature
judgment. Each organization has a faculty advisor who is responsible for working with the
students in a manner designed to encourage proper growth in these important areas of
development. All activities conducted by students, student organizations, or parents in the
name of SCS must have permission granted by the principal. Any fundraising activity must be
approved by the President of SCS.
Student Council
SCS students value their participation in the government of the school. Through elected
representatives a constitution has been adopted which defines student duties within the
total SCS community. The Student Council has responsibilities in many areas of student life,
including conducting service projects, sponsoring social functions and coordinating club and
grade activities, and meeting with the principal on matters of school policy as it affects
students. The Student Council is comprised of students from the elementary, middle and
high school levels.
For the current academic year, SCS will have a High School Student Council (grades 9 through
12) and a Middle School Service Council (grades 7 and 8). Officers and representatives will be
elected as follows:
 All officer and representative members must maintain a “C” average or above in all
subjects.
 All officers and representatives must maintain an “E” or “S” in Citizenship. An “N” or “U”
will result in probation.
 Policies governing campaign and election procedures will be reviewed and
communicated annually in the Student Council Constitution.
High School Student Council
PRESIDENT
VICE-PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
TREASURER
REPRESENTATIVES
CHAPLAIN
Grade 12
Grade 11 or 12
Grade 11 or 12
Grade 11 or 12
2 from each class
Grade 9-12
Middle School Service Council
Each class chooses one student with a heart of service to represent their class in the decision
making process for the year. They also lead their class in any service projects we are
conducting, as every student has the opportunity to offer their hands and feet to the Lord in
a servant's role.
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Other Clubs
Other clubs are chartered to provide additional student service to the school. Schoolsponsored clubs are formed through formation and presentation of a club charter with final
approval by the principal.
Yearbook
The yearbook staff is composed of high school students in grades 10-12. Students on the
yearbook staff are dedicated to producing a superior product and devote many after school
hours to this end. Applications for yearbook staff are accepted each spring.
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Athletics and Spirit Groups
Statement of Philosophy
SCS takes pride in its athletic teams and programs and encourages student participation,
support and total physical effort on the fields of play. While it encourages winning, our
ultimate goal for our Athletic program is create an atmosphere where our athletes can
learn, grow, and be challenged in ways to help cultivate a healthy work ethic while instilling
Christian values that they will carry with them long past the field of athletic competition.
“…let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the
author and perfecter of faith…” Hebrews 12:1-2
SCS coaches, players, and parents seek jointly to train and develop themselves to be
conformed to the image of Jesus Christ, as revealed in His Word.
Objectives
 SCS seeks Godly coaches who know and teach Christian goals.
 They lead by example, teach humility in winning, growth in losing, affirm each player’s
worth not related to his/her ability, instill respect for authority and the ability to receive
instruction, encouragement, and criticism, communicate the athletic goals and
objectives to both students and parents.
 The SCS athletic program strives to build a strong tradition aspiring to excellence
through seeking and encouraging involvement and valuing the participation of every
student; focusing on the students’ total development: spiritual, academic, social, and
physical; applying consistent corrective discipline and instilling the desire to be selfdisciplined; keeping competition and winning in a Biblical perspective; encouraging
team unity and the building of Christian relationships.
 Through implementation of its goals and objectives, the SCS Athletic Department strives
to continually foster a spirit of sportsmanship, encouraging athletes to make a
commitment, take responsibility for themselves and be accountable to others, while
exhibiting a Christ-like example and attitude.
Coaches’ Authority
Participation in organized athletics requires commitment that extends beyond the normal
school day. Teams will practice and play both before and after regular school hours.
Coaches will communicate these schedules to parents and attempt to avoid last minute
changes. The coach will set rules, practice, and game policies for all athletic teams. Please
understand that a certain degree of change is a normal part of these kinds of activities.
During home competition, a game administrator will be appointed to assist and supervise
officials, spectators, and visiting teams. In the event an administrator is unable to attend,
the head coach will act as the chief administrator.
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Parent and Fan Support
The greatest asset each SCS athlete has is parental support. We encourage ALL parents to
ENTHUSIASTICALLY support our student athletes throughout the year. Students are
encouraged to attend as many athletic events as possible and should display good school
spirit. Both players and fans should exhibit appropriate behavior and show respect to the
opponents and their fans. No negative comments should be directed toward
officials/umpires/referees, opposing players, coaches, or fans. Younger students should not
be “dropped off” at games and left unsupervised. All SCS athletes grades 9-12 will be
honored at an annual Athletic Banquet.
Athletic General Eligibility Requirements
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Any student participating in interscholastic athletic competition for SCS must be
enrolled in school and meet the course requirements for his/her respective grade.
Any student participating in varsity interscholastic athletic competition must be enrolled
in grades 9 through 12.
Any students participating in middle school interscholastic athletic competition must be
enrolled in grades 7 or 8.
Any students participating in varsity or middle school athletic competition may receive
no more than one “N” and no “Us” in citizenship on his or her report card.
No student may fail more than one course and remain eligible. A student failing two or
more classes will be ineligible the Monday following report card issuance. *Eligibility
may be reinstated by a progress report or report card with no failing grades and a
satisfactory report of citizenship in all courses.
Grade checks will take place when progress and report cards are issued.
For additional eligibility requirements, please refer to page 89 “Saturday School” and
page 89 “School Suspension.”
Spirit Groups – Cheerleading and Dance Team
The SCS Spirit Groups are service organizations consisting of a group of girl students
selected to represent SCS as student leaders. Spirit group members are to act as role
models at all times both at school and in the community. Spirit group members must be a
good example and positively represent Christ in word and deed in all phases of school and
personal life. Spirit group members will be called upon to serve at a variety of school
functions and will be expected to participate in all activities as assigned by the sponsor
throughout the entire athletic season and school year.
Spirit group members are one of the most visible and most important groups that represent
SCS. Because of this high visibility, it is imperative that students desiring to be spirit group
members meet and maintain high standards of academic and personal excellence.
 Members with an “N” or “U” in conduct may, at the discretion of the sponsor and
principal, be dismissed from the cheerleading/dance squad.
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General Eligibility Requirements
 Only girls currently enrolled and registered to attend SCS the following year are eligible
to try out for middle school or varsity cheerleading or dance team. New students trying
out must be enrolled and registered to attend SCS the following year prior to tryout.
 Girls in grades 6 and 7 may try out for middle school cheerleading.
 Girls in grades 8 through 11 may try out for junior varsity/varsity cheerleading or dance
team.
 Rules and regulations for all spirit groups will be set by the sponsor and will be given to
the participants at the first meeting. Students must observe all rules established by the
sponsor. Any spirit group member not complying with these rules will be placed on
probation and subject to dismissal from the squad.
 Attendance at all practice sessions is mandatory unless excused by the sponsor.
 All spirit group members will be expected to purchase uniforms and accessories each
year. The sponsor will select uniforms.
 No student may fail more than one course and remain eligible for extra-curricular
activities. A student failing two or more classes will be ineligible the Monday following
report card issuance. *Eligibility may be reinstated by a progress report or report card
with no failing grades and a satisfactory report of citizenship in all courses.
Incompletes
A student with an incomplete grade remains eligible for seven days from the time the
report card is issued unless the incomplete is replaced with a failing grade prior to the end
of the seven-day grace period. Students with an incomplete grade past the grace period
become ineligible until work is made up in accordance with applicable eligibility policies. In
the event the incomplete is caused by extraordinary circumstances, administration may
reinstate eligibility temporarily.
Athletic Guidelines
Please refer to the Athletic Guidelines document for more detailed information regarding
athletic policies and procedures. This document can be located at
https://southwestchristian.rankonesport.com under Southwest Christian online forms.
Please also note that an electronic signature is required by both the student and parent
before
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2016-2017
Athletic Guidelines
Southwest Christian School
The purpose of these guidelines are to help athletes and their
parents understand the commitment that they are making by
being a part of the Southwest Christian School Athletic
Program. The expectations set before each athlete are not to
restrict the athlete, but to merely provide limits and
boundaries so that the team concept is respected. You should
never doubt that the desire of this program is to win games.
However, our ultimate goal for our Athletic program is create
an atmosphere where our athletes can learn, grow, and be
challenged in ways to help cultivate a healthy work ethic
while instilling Christian values that they will carry with them
long past the field of athletic competition.
“…let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our
eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith…” Hebrews 12:1-2
PLEASE READ THESE GUIDELINES
CAREFULLY
WITH YOUR CHILD.
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Commitment to Athletics
Southwest Christian School believes that the experiences to which an athlete is exposed from a quality
athletic program will play a key role in molding the character of each young athlete. The school understands
that, in order to produce and maintain a quality athletic program, many commitments must be made by the
school, student body, parents, and community. The following information is the foundation for Southwest
Christian School building and maintaining its athletic program.
This program’s desire is to have all its athletes well rounded and engaged in athletic competition yearround. The Southwest Christian School Athletic Program is committed to the benefits of strength, speed, agility,
and endurance as essential qualities that will make every athlete more competitive in all sports. The program
will prepare the athletes for both the college and career levels by making them accustomed to hard work and
discipline. To do this, a priority will be placed on a year-round strength and conditioning program for both the
in-season and off-season athlete. The athletes of Southwest Christian School will be coached to outwork their
opponents. It is necessary for you to understand that the program will expect all athletes to conform to its
system.
The Southwest Christian Athletic Program is focused on the team concept. The program will expect its
athletes to be dedicated, committed, devoted, and well disciplined to every aspect of the program. Athletes will
be encouraged to compete any time they can contribute to the success of the team. The program will not tolerate
individualism or selfish behavior by any athlete. Parents are also expected to be supportive, positive, and
committed to the decisions that are made by the Athletic Program.
The Southwest Christian Athletic Program is committed to winning. Every aspect of the program will
be to prepare our athletes to become champions in every sport they play. Any behavior that hinders this
commitment will not be tolerated. However, the program will not place winning above the need to discipline its
athletes. Every athlete in our program will be disciplined and treated equally. You must understand that being a
part of the Southwest Christian Athletic Program is a privilege, not a right. Therefore, the program may remove
any athlete at any time.
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Table of Contents
Cover Page (Purpose Statement) .............................................................. 107
Commitment to Athletics Statement ......................................................... 108
Contact Information .................................................................................. 110
Sports Offered in the Southwest Athletic Program .................................. 111
Athletic Code of Conduct ......................................................................... 112
Rules and Regulations
Conduct and Expectations .................................................................................................. 113
On the Field
In the Classroom
On and Off Campus
On Trips
Hazing
Bullying
Selection of Team Sports .................................................................................................... 115
Select/Club Sports .............................................................................................................. 115
School Equipment .............................................................................................................. 115
Quitting/Dismissal from a Team/Sport .............................................................................. 115
Dismissal from the Team/Program .................................................................................... 116
Re-instatement to Athletics after being Dismissed/Quitting .............................................. 116
Eligibility/Tutorials ............................................................................................................ 116
Grading-Dressing Out Policy/Credits ................................................................................ 117
Practice Regulations ........................................................................................................... 117
Locker Room Conduct ....................................................................................................... 117
Team Functions – Games/Practices ................................................................................... 118
Lettering/Awards ............................................................................................................... 118
Parent Conferences/Interference ........................................................................................ 119
Athletics as a Personal Tool for Punishment ..................................................................... 119
Vacation Time/Family Trips During In Season Athletics .................................................. 119
Strength and Conditioning Program/Single and Multiple Sport Athletes .......................... 120
Sports Banquet ................................................................................................................... 120
Booster Club ...................................................................................................................... 120
Donations ........................................................................................................................... 120
Cheerleading/Dance/Rockin’ Eagles ................................................................................. 120
Wednesday/Sunday Athletics ............................................................................................ 121
Parent/Guardian Consent for Early Release Consent on Game Days ............................... 121
Absentee /Grading Policy ......................................................................... 122
Sportsman’s Creed .................................................................................... 123
Athletic Guidelines Acknowledgement/Student Contact Form ............... 124
Student Travel Release Form (Tennis/Golf)................................................125
108
Southwest Christian Contact Information
Athletic Office Tracy Howard – Athletic Director
[email protected]
Jamie Pritchett – Athletic Coordinator
[email protected]
High School Dr. Shane Naterman – Principal
[email protected]
Middle School Dr. Joey Richards – Principal
[email protected]
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Sports Offered
Southwest Christian School offers participation in the following sports
programs under the auspices of the Texas Association of Private and Parochial
School (TAPPS) in Salado, Texas:
Middle School
Cross Country – Boys and Girls
Volleyball – Girls
Football – Boys
Basketball – Boys and Girls
Soccer – Boys and Girls
Baseball – Boys
Softball - Girls
Track – Boys and Girls
Cheerleading - Girls
High School
Cross Country – Boys and Girls
Volleyball – Girls
Football – Boys
Basketball – Boys and Girls
Soccer – Boys and Girls
Baseball – Boys
Softball – Girls
Tennis – Boys and Girls
Track – Boys and Girls
Golf – Boys and Girls
Swimming – Boys and Girls
Cheerleading - Girls
Dance - Girls
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Southwest Christian Athletic Code of Conduct
Statements of Expectations
Southwest Christian School believes that being involved in athletic activities is an honor
demanding many responsibilities. Being a member of a team or athletic organization is a
privilege, not a right.
The following are expectations for our athletic students:
 Aspire to represent Christ well in all you do on or off the field of play.
 Strive to obtain a quality education, keeping this the primary reason for attending
school.
 Be intense competitors during the contest while exhibiting good sportsmanship and
courteous behavior.
 Display positive leadership.
 Conduct yourselves as ladies and gentlemen.
 Show respect for others (faculty, students, opponents, and officials).
 Develop and demonstrate school pride.
Standards for SCS Athletic Activities
All students are expected to adhere to the Southwest Christian Student Code of Conduct as it
pertains to school-related or school-sponsored activities. Prior to participation in any SCS
athletic activity, the student and parent must read and sign the Athletic Guidelines Addendum
section in the Southwest Christian Family Handbook. As previously stated, students involved
in athletic activities are expected to exhibit the highest standards of ethics and conduct.
Participation in any athletic activities is viewed as a privilege. Therefore, coaches and
directors of these activities may develop and enforce codes of conduct that will take into
consideration conduct that is outside of the school’s usual jurisdiction regardless of date, time
or location. This would include any misconduct that would reflect negatively on Southwest
Christian School. Students involved in a major disciplinary infraction (including but not
limited to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violent behavior and any other illegal offense) or who
violate the Athletic Guidelines section in the Southwest Christian Family Handbook will be
disciplined or suspended from participation in athletic activities for a specified length of
time.
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ATHLETIC CODE of CONDUCT
(This Code Applies to all Sports)
I. Conduct and Expectations
o On the Field
 No profanity or illegal tactics.
 Humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
 Displays good sportsmanship to opposing team.
 Always be respectful of coaches and officials.
 Violation may result in removal from team.
o In the Classroom
 Must meet standards set by Southwest Christian.
 Always be courteous to teachers and other students.
 Anyone who misses more than a half-day of school on the day of
the game is not eligible to play unless he/she has administrative
approval.
 Grade checks will be conducted throughout the year to assist with
successful academic progress.
o On and Off Campus
 No tobacco use (to include smokeless e-cigarettes). Consequences
can include, suspension and/or removal from athletics.
 No underage drinking. Consequences can include, suspension and/or
removal from athletics.
 No illegal drugs. Consequences can include, suspension and/or
removal from athletics.
 Violations of these rules will be handled by the individual coach and
athletic director in partnership with SCS administration.
 Use appropriate language. Profanity is never acceptable.
 Haircut neatly trimmed on top, sides, and back – in compliance
with school dress code regulations.
 Clean shaven, with no mustache or beard. No form of pierced
jewelry (boys) worn on school grounds or school related
functions.
 Tattoos are highly discouraged. If they are present, they are to be
covered at all times during games and workouts. If they do not
exist prior to entering athletics, avoid getting one.
o On Trips
 Dress in an accepted manner, as directed by coach.
 Conduct yourself in a manner consistent with SCS handbook.
 Players/Participants are expected to ride the team bus to and from
competition unless a parent makes special arrangements with the
coach and/or athletic administration.
o Hazing
 Hazing is defined as any action taken against another individual or
group of individuals which results in abuse, harassment, intimidation,
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or any form of degradation. The action taken can be physical, mental,
emotional, or psychological and the effects may be intended or
unintended. It does not matter if participation by victim(s) is
voluntary or involuntary. The following are some examples of
prohibited actions that constitute hazing:
 Forcing, requiring or pressuring the ingestion of a substance
 Forcing, requiring or pressuring the shaving of a body part
 Forcing, requiring or pressuring the participation of any
activity that is illegal
 Paddling, whipping, beating or physical abuse of any kind
 Forcing, encouraging, or pressuring the wearing of apparel in
public which is not normally in good taste or designed to
humiliate the individual
 Hazing, as defined above, will not be tolerated. The Athletic
Department requires administrators, staff and students to report any
behavior that resembles hazing. Reports can be made directly to the
Athletics Director or to any adult in authority.
o Bullying
 What is Bullying?
Generally, bullying is the use of aggression, whether intentional or
not, which hurts another person. Bullying results in pain and distress.
 Bullying is an intentional, persistent and repeated pattern of
committing or willfully tolerating physical and non-physical behaviors
that are intended, or have the reasonable potential, to cause fear,
humiliation or physical harm in an attempt to socially exclude,
diminish or isolate the targeted student athlete or create a hostile
environment for the targeted student athlete.
 Bullying can involve the use of verbal statements, written statements,
electronic expressions, physical acts or gestures, or any combination
thereof.
 Bullying does not include group or team behaviors that are meant to
establish normative team behaviors or promote team cohesion. For
example, bullying does not include verbal admonitions to encourage
team members to train harder and to push through a difficult training
regimen. Coaches, however, should understand that certain activities
or admonitions can be perceived by student athletes and/or parents
as bullying.
 Students Desiring to Report Bullying
If a student athlete feels that he or she has been bullied, that student
should be encouraged to do one or more of the following things:
 Talk to the student athlete’s parents;
 Communicate (verbal visit or in writing) to an SCS coach,
Athletics Director, faculty or staff member.
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
There is no express time limit for initiating a complaint under this
procedure, but every effort should be made to bring the complaint to
the attention of SCS leadership as soon as possible to make sure that
memories are fresh and behavior can be accurately recalled and the
bullying behavior can be stopped as soon as possible.
II. Selection of Team Sports
o
The head coach of each sport will determine the players on the
team. The selection of teams will include, but is not limited to, skill level,
knowledge of sport, attitude, and experience in the sport.
o
Middle school and high school sub-varsity team members will
receive playing time based upon performance and meeting expectations.
o
Members of varsity teams are not guaranteed playing time.
III. Select/Club Sports
o In the case of a non-school sponsored athletic event conflicting with a
school sponsored athletic event, athletes should give priority to the schoolsponsored athletic event.
o Missing a school sponsored athletic practice or game for a non-school
athletic activity is unacceptable and could result in suspension or dismissal
from the team. (Exceptions must be approved by the athletic director and
head coach.)
IV. School Equipment
o Athletic equipment abuse will not be tolerated.
o Athletes are financially responsible for all equipment checked out to them.
V. Quitting/Dismissal from a Team/Sport
o Any athlete that quits or is dismissed from a sport or team, unless by special
permission from the Athletic Director, will:
 Forfeit any award from that team.
 Be ineligible for any athletic participation (games or practices)
outside of the athletic period for the duration of that sport’s
season (including playoffs).
o Athletes will be given a 2-week “trial” window or 10 practices (whichever
comes first) at the beginning of each sport. During this time if the athlete
chooses not to participate in the given sport, and it is agreed upon by the
coach, he/she will be allowed to drop without punishment.
o Senior Athletes may be allowed to be withdrawn from the athletic period at
the conclusion of their sport(s). Arrangements must be made with guidance
and athletic administration.
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VI. Dismissal from the Team/Program
o An athlete may be dismissed from the team at the discretion of the coaching
staff for any serious violation of the Athletic Code and/or:
o Poor attitude in general.
o Lack of effort in practice or games.
o Lack of respect for the coach.
o Improper conduct at school or on trips.
o Violation of the athletic code of conduct.
VII. Re-instatement to Athletics after Being Dismissed/Quitting
Any athlete who wants to return to athletics after being dismissed or quitting the
program may:
o Be allowed back in the program upon consent of the Athletic Director.
o Be required to participate in off-season workouts for a semester before
being allowed to represent the school in athletic competition (summer also
counts as one semester).
o Be placed on probation for a semester (terms of probation will be outlined
individually by the athletic director).
VIII. Eligibility/Tutorials
o The Southwest Christian School coaches and administration shall determine
each student’s eligibility according to the academic boundaries set by
Southwest Christian and TAPPS. Southwest Christian strictly adheres to
these rules and regulations.
o To remain eligible to participate in athletic competition, a student may
receive no more than one “N” and no “Us” on his or her report card.
o No student may fail more than one course on his or her report card and
remain eligible for athletic competition. A student failing two or more
classes will be ineligible the Monday following report card issuance. A
student may regain eligibility by a progress report with no failing grades
and a satisfactory report of citizenship in all courses.
o A student with an incomplete grade remains eligible for seven days from the
time the report card is issued unless the incomplete is replaced with a
failing grade prior to the end of the seven-day grace period. Students with
an incomplete grade past the grace period become ineligible until work is
made up in accordance with applicable eligibility policies. In the event the
incomplete is caused by extraordinary circumstances, administration may
reinstate eligibility temporarily.
o Athletes who do not maintain passing grades or who are habitually missing
assignments may be subject to suspension from athletic competition at any
time.
o Athletes may be required to attend tutorials if their grades are not
acceptable.
o Grade checks will be performed and monitored throughout the school year.
o Athletes who become academically ineligible must complete the remainder
of the season to stay in good standing.
o Athletes who are academically ineligible may not travel or suit up with their
team during their ineligibility.
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IX. Grading-Dressing Out Policy/Credits
o Athletes will receive ½ credit per semester.
o Athletes are considered excused if they have a parent or doctor’s note, or are
excused by our athletic trainer.
o Parent notes are good for 2 days; after this, our athletic trainer will evaluate
the athlete and determine whether or not he/she needs to see the doctor or
return to participating in athletics (our trainer will communicate with the
parents of the athlete regarding the situation). The athlete will be
considered excused or unexcused based on the athletic trainer’s evaluation.
o A Medical Doctor’s note will be honored and athletes will be excused for
the duration of the time listed on the note.
o All athletes will be required to dress out whether participating or not (unless
athletes are too ill to be at practice or are rehabbing with the athletic
trainer).
o Athletes that become injured or ill the day of athletics will be considered
excused/unexcused based on the evaluation of our athletic trainer.
o Consequences will be given to any athlete receiving an unexcused absence
for the day.
X. Practice Regulations
o If an athlete misses practice for any reason, he/she must email the head
coach of their sport.
o If the athlete is at school but not well enough to work out, he/she must have
a note from the doctor or from his/her parent(s); otherwise, the athlete will
be expected to suit up in full uniform and watch the practice.
o Those who have injuries are responsible for seeing that their injuries get an
proper treatment. Treatment should be scheduled before or after practice
or before school on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If the athlete does not seek
treatment, he/she should not expect to miss practice because of injuries.
o An athlete who misses several days workout during the week should not
expect to play the day of the game.
o Anyone who misses workout (excused) will be expected to make up what
was missed to the satisfaction of the coaches.
o Anyone who misses workout for classroom reasons (excused) – such as
make-up work, testing, tutorials, etc. – will be expected to make up what
was missed to the satisfaction of the coaches.
o Anyone who misses workout without an excuse will be subject to
consequences deemed appropriate by his/her coach.
XI. Locker Room Conduct
o The locker rooms are intended to be safe areas for all students in athletics
where personal property is respected and where one’s dignity is protected.
While it is the policy for staff to regularly supervise and monitor student
behavior, we recognize the unique environment of locker rooms and the
reality of limited adult supervision at all times. Therefore, students using
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locker rooms are expected to adhere to the following strict standards of
conduct:
 Students will treat one another with respect both physically and
verbally.
 Physical contact (wrestling, fighting, horseplay) is unacceptable.
 Language should be appropriate and consistent with expectations for
students anywhere on campus.
 Cell phones and other mobile devices with recording capabilities are
never permitted to be used in a locker room or bathroom.
 Students who see or hear others failing to comply with the above
standards are strongly encouraged to redirect and report the
inappropriate behavior to a coach or any other adult in authority.
Being a good teammate does not mean you ignore inappropriate
behavior!
 Place trash in the appropriate receptacles.
 Secure personal belongings in a locked locker at all times.
XII. Team Functions – Games/Practices
o Every player is expected to attend all team functions. This includes squad
meetings, pep rallies, and banquets. Anyone who does not attend must
notify a coach and have an approved cause for not attending.
o Each player is responsible for knowing the time, place, and date of all
practice sessions, games, banquets, and team meetings.
XIII. Lettering/Awards
o Varsity athletes are eligible for a letter per sport once they participate in a
high school sport at Southwest Christian as a player for the entire season.
The coach will outline the requirements to be eligible to receive a letter at
the beginning of each sport.
o A player may receive an award whether or not he/she plays.
o All letter jacket purchases must be approved through our Athletic
Coordinator. Letter jacket purchases will take place either in the late fall or
spring, through Meca Sportswear.
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XIV.
Parent Conferences/Interference
o There will be no parent-coach meetings before, during, or after a game or
practice. If parents desire a meeting to address concerns with a coach, they
should seek an appointment with the coach when convenient for both
parties.
o The proper chain of command expected to be followed (Parent  Head
Coach  Athletic Director  Principal Headmaster).
o A parent, relative, or other spectators should not coach or give playing
advice to their children during practices or games.
o No one should ever interfere with the coaches while they are coaching.
o Parents and spectators are to remain off the playing and practice areas
unless permission has been granted by the head coach (however, parents
and family are always welcome to all practices and athletic events – we
strongly encourage this).
o The coaching staff will not engage in a debate with a parent over playing
time, strategy, or philosophical issues.
XV. Athletics as a Personal Tool for Punishment
o Parents are strongly discouraged from punishing their children by taking
them out of their team sport (ex: not allowing your child to play during a
game because he/she did not do all his chores that day, or because he/she
made a bad grade on a daily assignment at school). This hurts not only
the child, but also his/her teammates that are counting on him.
XVI. Vacation Time/Family Trips During In Season Athletics
o Planned trips during in-season athletics are strongly discouraged because of
the commitment obligations to one’s team, and will be considered
unexcused.
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XVII. Strength and Conditioning Program/Single and Multiple Sport Athletes
o The purpose of the strength and conditioning program is to improve
the athletic program by enhancing each athlete’s abilities. Drills and
activities to improve speed, strength, endurance, and agility will be utilized
throughout the year.
o It is mandatory for all student-athletes to participate in the strength and
conditioning program if they wish to participate in Athletics. Exceptions:
for students who wish to participate in Tennis, Golf, and Swim only,
participating in 8th period Athletics is not required. Tennis and Golf
practices will take place after school.
o Off-season athletes will be required to participate in strength and
conditioning workouts during the athletic period.
o In-season athletes will participate in strength and conditioning/agility
workouts as directed by their respective coaches.
o Athletes will be encouraged to compete in multiple sports.
o Specialization of Sports – All sports will be considered equally important,
and the sport that is in season will take precedence over all sports that
are not in season.
XVIII. Sports Banquet
o In the spring, the Athletic Department will host a high school banquet
honoring all athletes who participated in athletics during the competition
seasons. Athletes are expected to attend the banquet to honor their
sport(s) and dress appropriately.
XIX. Booster Club
o The Southwest Christian Athletic Booster Club meets periodically
throughout the year to promote parent and citizen involvement in the
Southwest Christian Athletic Program. The Booster Club serves in a
support capacity to raise funds, awareness, and community spirit. The
Booster Club also provides 100% of game day volunteers. They are under
the auspices of the SCS Board of Trustees, Headmaster and Athletic
Director. TAPPS has set forth strict guidelines for the proper management
of any organizations supporting student activities.
XX. Donations
o Any family interested in making a donation must contact the appropriate
coach or the Athletic Director. Upon approval by the Athletic Director,
donations will be made to the SCS Booster Club and placed in an
appropriate designated account. The athletic director is responsible for
notifying the SCS Advancement office of any donations received.
XXI. Cheerleading/Dance/Rockin’ Eagles
o All spirit groups (cheer squads, dance teams and Rockin’ Eagles) will be under
the SCS Athletic Program and report to the Spirit Coordinator. These groups
will be expected to abide by all rules in the athletic guidelines of the family
handbook and their respective constitutions.
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XXII. Wednesday/Sunday Athletics
o All SCS practices should conclude before 6:00 PM on Wed nights, and no
organized practices are allowed on Sunday without special consent from the
athletic director.
XXIII. Parent/Guardian Consent for Early Release on Game Days
o Parents/Guardians agree to allow their student-athletes to be dismissed on
the day of a game if their coach releases them. Parents/Guardians
understand that by granting this permission that their student-athletes will
be considered dismissed from school.
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Absentee/Grading Policy
The athletic period is an academic course reflected on a student’s transcript by
pass (P)/fail (F) rather than a numeric grade. Therefore attendance for the
athletic period will adhere to the same standards of all other courses. A student
missing more than 10% of the instructional days may not receive credit. (see
Loss of Credit in the Family Handbook)
*Athletes must email the head coach if absent. If head coach is not notified
by email, then the absence will be unexcused.
Excused Absence:
Upon return, complete conditioning from previous workout missed plus
the current days conditioning.
Unexcused Absence:
1st unexcused – complete a “Reminder”
2nd unexcused – 3 days of a “Reminder”
3rd unexcused – 6 days of a “Reminder”
4th unexcused – dismissed from current sport
“Reminder”
Boys
4 lap jog
100 yd Yo-Yo
200 yd Lunge Walk
50 Sit-ups
50 Push-ups
100 Line Jumps
25 Up Downs
Girls
4 lap jog
100 yd Yo-Yo
200 yd Lunge Walk
75 Sit-ups
25 Push-ups
100 Line Jumps
50 Mtn. Climbers
Note: Each Spirit Group will abide by the attendance policy listed in their respective
constitutions.
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The Sportsman’s Creed
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O
Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalm 19:14
The SPECTATOR…never boos a player or official. He appreciates a good play no matter
who makes it. He knows the school gets the blame or praise for his conduct. He recognizes
the need to be a good sport and a good example to those around him.
The PLAYER…lives clean, plays hard, wins without boasting, loses without excuses and
never quits. He strives to exemplify Christ in all of his actions and undertakings.
The COACH…inspires in his team a love for the game and a desire to win. He contends that
it is better to lose fairly than to win unfairly. He leads his players and the spectators to
respect the officials and opposing players. He is the kind of Godly example he wants his
players to be.
The OFFICIAL…knows the rules, is fair and firm in all decisions and calls them as he sees
them. He treats players and coaches courteously and demands the same treatment in return.
He knows the game is for the players and lets them have the spotlight.
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Athletic Guidelines Acknowledgement/Student Contact Form
Student’s Name (print) ________________________________ Grade ____
Parent’s Name (print) ___________________________________________
Current Mailing Address ________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Home Phone __________________________________________________
Work Phone __________________________________________________
Cell Phone ____________________________________________________
Email Address _________________________________________________
Acknowledgement of Receipt to the Procedures and Policies of the
Southwest Christian School Athletic Guidelines
I have received and understand the responsibilities outlined in the Athletic Guidelines section of the Southwest
Christian Family Handbook. I agree to respect and follow all the procedures and policies of the handbook. This
includes the Southwest Christian Athletic Code of Conduct. I also understand that participation in TAPPS’
athletics is a privilege and not a right.
Please Sign
Student ______________________________________ Date ____________
Parent/Guardian _______________________________ Date ____________
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STUDENT TRAVEL RELEASE FORM
(FOR OFF CAMPUS LOCATIONS)
In consideration of the Southwest Christian School allowing my child to
participate in this off campus activity, I, the undersigned, assume full and
complete responsibility for any injury or accident, which may occur to my
son/daughter or the vehicle in which he/she is driving or riding. I fully
understand and my son/daughter fully understands that driving or riding in an
automobile may result in serious injury, illness, or death. Although my
son/daughter and I fully understand these risks, I desire that my son/daughter be
allowed to drive his/her car or ride with another student as provided above
without regard to the consequences. I hereby release and waive any and all
claims that I or my son/daughter may have against the Southwest Christian
School, its Board of Trustees, employees, agents, and representatives resulting
in whole or in part, for my son/daughter driving his/her car or riding with
someone else. This release and waiver shall be binding on my heirs, legatees,
administrators, and assigns.
____________________________
______________________________
Student’s Name
Activity
________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
__________________________
Date
________________________
Coach’s Signature
___________________________
Date
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SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
HERITAGE & BELIEFS
Southwest Christian School exists today as the result of God’s blessings and the loving sacrifice of many. It
began in 1969 with a few Christian ladies at the West Berry (now University) Church of Christ who gave of
their time to provide a “mother’s day out”. Additional grades were added each year until a complete
elementary program was available. The school grew larger creating the need for more classrooms and space.
As God provided the opportunity to further the ministry of SCS, members of the Altamesa Church of Christ
agreed to allow the school to move to their campus.
The demand for Christian education was rising, so junior high and, later, high school grades were added. With
space becoming tighter, the Board of Trustees began the move to an independent facility by buying several
acres of undeveloped property on Benbrook Lake. Upon completion of a classroom building in 1994, the high
school moved to this new campus, while the elementary school remained at Altamesa.
The master plan at that time was to move the entire school to the new campus, but a new opportunity
emerged when property on Dan Danciger Road became available for purchase. In 1999, this beautiful campus
became the home of the Southwest Christian Elementary and Early Childhood programs.
Today SCS is a fully accredited interdenominational institution with a clear mission: to provide a Christcentered college preparatory education equipping young adults as Christian leaders in the world. Faith and
learning are fused in the curriculum to reflect a biblical worldview. SCS continues its rich heritage and
tradition by requiring ALL members of the Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff to be actively involved in
his/her Christian church and to unequivocally support SCS’s vision, mission and core values.
The Christian education that we provide is grounded in core Christian vaues and biblical principles. The
affirmations that follow are not intended to be comprehensive, but do illustrate certain distinctive beliefs that
are reflected at SCS. The basis for these Christian values and biblical principles is the Word of God as affirmed
in the following belief statement:
WE BELIEVE,
…the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative, inerrant Word of God. (2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter
1:21)
…there is one God, eternally existent in three persons-Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Genesis 1:1, Matthew
28:19, John 10:30)
…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 (1 Corinthians 15:3,
Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 2:9), His resurrection (John 11:25, 1 Corinthians 15:4), His ascension to the right hand
of God (Mark 16:19), His personal return in power and glory. (Acts 1:11, Revelation 19:11)
…in the absolute necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of the exceeding sinfulness
of human nature; and that we 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)
…in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost-the saved to the resurrection of life, and the lost to the
resurrection of condemnation. (John 5:28-29)
…in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, Galatians 3:2628), who is the way, the truth, and the life. (John 14:6)
…in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life.
(Romans 8:13-14, 1 Corinthians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Ephesians 4:30, Ephesians 5:18)
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Index
2016-2017 Test Dates, 59
Absences, 53
Academic Meet, 43
Academic Probation, 38
Academic Testing, 46, 58
Accreditation, 1
Activities And Events Calendar, 28
Admission Criteria, 19
Admission Testing, 20
After School Supervision, 52
Alma Mater, 11
Appeals Procedure, 90
Athletic General Eligibility Requirements, 104
Athletics Addendum 105
Athletics And Spirit Groups, 103
Attendance, 53
Auction, 15
Backpacks, 37
Board Of Trustees, 12
Building Entry And Exit, 39, 51
Business Procedures, 21
Campus Visitors, 30
Chewing Gum, 42, 83
Class Assignments And Scheduling Of Elementary School
Students, 47
Class Rank, 66
Classroom Conduct-Elementary Campus, 41
Classroom Conduct-Preparatory Campus, 82
Co-Curricular Activities, 45,101
College Counseling, 58
College Representative Visits, 58
College Visits, 58
Concessions, 36
Conferences And School Visitation, 30
Core Values, 8
Demerits, 86
Disciplinary Conference, 87
Discipline-Merit/Demerit System, 86
Dismissal Policy, 89
Dropping And Adding Courses, 65
Electronic Devices, 43, 85, 93
Elementary Campus, 12
Elementary Graduation Ceremonies, 50
Emergency Information, 31
End Of Year Awards, 50
Extended Hours For Preparatory School (Grades 7-12),
52
Family Trips, 56
Field Trips, 27
Fight Song, 11
Financial Aid, 22
Fire Drills, 37
Food/Drink/Gum, 36
Game Day Dress Code, 81
General Administration, 12
General Eligibility Requirements, 104
General Rules Of Conduct, 41 82
Graduation Ceremony, 66
Graduation With Honors, 66
Guidance Office, 57
Health Requirements, 21, 32
Homework, 47, 59
Honor roll, 50
Honors/Advanced Level Courses, 65
Ideal Graduate Profile, 10
Ideal Teacher Profile, 9
Insufficient/Return Checks, 21
Interview, 21
Knives, Firearms, 41, 82
Late Charge Fees, 21
Late Entry, 21
Liability, 37
Library – Prep Campus, 73
Library- Elementary Campus, 49
Lockers, 37,85
Loss Of Credit, 57
Lost And Found, 37
Lunch Program – Preparatory Campus, 52
Lunch Program- Elementary Campus, 40
Make-Up Work/Late Papers, 56
Mascot, 11
Membership, 1
Merits, 88
Messages And Parent Communication, 29
Middle School Promotion Policy, 60
Motto, 11
Notes For Absences, 39, 54
Notification Of Absences (Excused And Unexcused), 41,
55
Objectives:, 103
Out-Of-School Suspension, 89
Parent And Fan Support, 104
Parent Booster Club, 16
Parent Teacher Organization, 15
Parent-Teacher Conferences, 30
Parking And Traffic Regulations- Preparatory Campus,
51
Parties (Student Birthday)- Elementary School, 46
Pets, 36
Preparatory Campus, 13
Principal Conferences, 30
Probation, 21, 88
Progress Reports, 38
Recommendations, 20
Re-Enrollment Criteria, 23
Refund Policy On Withdrawals, 22
Report Cards, 38
Safety Patrol, 45
Saturday School, 88
Scheduled Trips, 27
School Closings – Inclement Weather Procedure, 28
School Colors, 11
School Facilities And Property, 28
School Flower, 11
126
School Pictures, 37
School Records, 20
School Spirit Information, 11
Senior Friday Dress Code, 81
Spirit Groups – Cheerleading, 104
Statement Of Philosophy, 103
Student Check Out Policy (Early Dismissal), 56
Student Council, 101
Student Driver/Vehicle Policy, 51
Student Evaluation And Grading System, 38
Student Harassment And Hazing Policy, 42, 83
Telephone Usage, 28
Textbook Purchases, 74
The Sportsman’s Creed, 122
Tobacco, Intoxicants, And Drugs, 42, 82
Travel, 27
Tuition Schedule, 24
Unexcused Absences, 54
Uniform Or Dress Code Violations –Middle And High
School, 80
Volunteer Policy, 30
When Uniforms Are Worn, 80
Whom To Call For What, 13
Withdrawal Procedure, 22
Written Communication, 30
127