handbook - Westminster Christian Academy

STUDENT-PARENT
HANDBOOK
2013-14
MISSION STATEMENT
Westminster Christian Academy is a Christian high school distinguished by a
clear mission: Westminster Christian Academy honors Jesus Christ by providing
an excellent education, rooted in biblical truth as interpreted by the Westminster
Confession of Faith, for the children of Christian parents. Faculty and staff
enable students to discover and embrace a biblical view of the world and integrate
that view into every area of life.
Contents
Mission/Philosophy
Mission Statement/Philosophy.......................................................................4
Organization
Accreditation/Recognition...................................................................5
The Association......................................................................................5
The Board of Directors...........................................................................5
Faculty & Staff.........................................................................................6
Parent Organization (PAW)......................................................................6
Directory................................................................................7
General Policies
Attendance & Absences........................................................................8
Bookstore................................................................................10
Building & Grounds.............................................................................10
Cafeteria.....................................................................................10
Change of Address................................................................................10
Complaint or Problem Procedures......................................................10
Students with Disabilities....................................................................11
Discipline...........................................................................................11
Discipline Procedures...........................................................................12
Pregnancy Policy..................................................................................14
Standardized Dress Code..........................................................................15
Student Drivers & Student Parking.....................................................16
Student Transportation.............................................................................16
Hall Passes..............................................................................................17
School Hours/After-School Supervision...............................................17
Lockers...............................................................................................17
Lost & Found.........................................................................................17
Restrooms........................................................................................18
Snow Announcements..........................................................................18
Social Events.......................................................................................18
Telephones................................................................................18
Textbooks.......................................................................................18
Campus Visitors.....................................................................................19
Withdrawing from Westminster...........................................................19
Student Search & Seizure.....................................................................19
Junior/Senior Privileges.............................................................................20
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Program of Instruction
Chapel............................................................................21
Parent-Teacher Conferences................................................................21
Academic Distinctions..........................................................................21
Promotion.............................................................................................23
Dropping or Adding a Course...............................................................23
Plagiarism.............................................................................................23
Guidance & Counseling......................................................................24
Academic Hub.........................................................................................24
Physical Education..............................................................................25
Classroom Procedures...........................................................................26
Material Selection Guidelines..............................................................27
Cocurricular Music Selection Guidelines..............................................28
Student Leadership..............................................................................30
Student Council..................................................................................30
Student Records....................................................................................30
Upper School Academic Policies.........................................................30
Advanced Placement Courses.................................................................30
Grade Reporting & Grading Procedure...............................................31
National Junior Honor Society/National Honor Society...................32
Standardized Testing............................................................................32
Summer School Academic Policy........................................................33
Summer School Enrollment.................................................................33
Tutoring Policy......................................................................................33
Health & Safety
Health Records.....................................................................................34
Physicals...................................................................................34
Immunizations......................................................................................35
Medication...........................................................................................35
Illness....................................................................................................36
Accidents/Injuries................................................................................37
Student Insurance.................................................................................37
Business & Finance
Fees...................................................................................................38
Financial Policies/Payment Plans.........................................................38
Returned Checks.......................................................................................39
Athletic Policies
Ten Pillars for Wildcat Athletics...........................................................40
Purpose of Athletic Program.................................................................40
Upper School Athletic Eligibility Standards......................................41
Middle School Athletic Eligibility Standards......................................42
Guidelines for Team Selection & Playing Time....................................42
Communication with Coaches ............................ .................................43
Index............................................................................................................44
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Dear Students and Parents:
Welcome to the 2013-14 school year at Westminster Christian
Academy. This year, we anticipate the student body at
Westminster Christian Academy to reach 1,000 students from
more than 700 families. Wow! That is big community, and we
are pleased that you are a part of it. Whenever you have groups of people working together for
a common purpose, it is important to have clearly stated
policies to help the organization operate smoothly and
efficiently. Athletic teams have playbooks; bands and orchestras Tom Stoner, EdD
have the musical score; and schools have Student/Parent
Head of School
Handbooks. The purpose of this handbook is to guide our daily
life together in the school community.
We are responsible for communicating expectations clearly and
ensuring that they are accurate. For this reason, we constantly
reflect upon these policies and update this handbook each
year. In addition to communicating these policies, the faculty,
staff, and administration give their best to implement them as
consistently as possible in order to enable our community to
flourish. We ask two things of you with regard to this handbook. First,
we ask you and your student(s) to read it so that you will all
become familiar with the policies and procedures that will guide
our year together. After reading it, if you have any questions,
please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to
find the answer for you. Second, we ask that you follow and support these policies as a
practical expression of the essential partnership between your
home and the school in your child’s education. In a community
like ours, challenging situations occasionally arise. When they
do, a strong partnership between the home and school will help
us to work through them together. It is going to be a great year!
Love to you in Christ,
Tom Stoner, EdD
Head of School 3
Mission/Philosophy
IN THIS SECTION
• Mission Statement
• Philosophy
Mission Statement
Westminster Christian Academy honors Jesus Christ by providing an excellent education,
rooted in biblical truth as interpreted by the Westminster Confession of Faith, for the
children of Christian parents. Faculty and staff enable students to discover and embrace a
biblical view of the world and integrate that view into every area of life.
Philosophy
Westminster is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory school serving students
in grades 7-12. It is founded on the following:
We believe that God is the creator and sustainer of all things and that Jesus Christ is the
only redeemer of our fallen world. As a covenantal school, we are committed, in partnership with home and church, to a quality education based on these truths.
We believe that our curriculum provides an academically diverse student body with
knowledge in the traditional liberal arts and the skills and wisdom to apply that knowledge.
Teachers are committed to designing and employing creative teaching strategies to meet this
goal.
We believe that a complete education transforms knowledge into practical action.
The development and application of Christian character through leadership training,
community service, cocurricular programs, and the building of relationships, are essential
outgrowths of our educational perspective.
We believe that trust, respect, and open communication are the foundations of the school
program and the community atmosphere. We expect staff and students to exemplify
biblical standards in their attitudes and lifestyles, and to take personal responsibility for the
growth and development of others.
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Organization
IN THIS SECTION
• Accreditation/Recognition
• The Association
• The Board of Directors
• Faculty & Staff
• Parent Organizations
• Assistance Directory
Accreditation/Recognition
The Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS) accredits Westminster
Christian Academy. ISACS is comprised of over 200 accredited schools in 15 Midwestern
states. In 1991, the United States Department of Education recognized Westminster as a
“National School of Excellence.”
The Association
Westminster Christian Academy was established and is run by a parent association that
has a constitutional role in the ongoing ministry of the school. Association members must
be supportive of the Constitution and Bylaws (copies are available in the Business Office),
and must sign the Association membership form on an annual basis. The Association
meets in November and March of each year for the purpose of electing Board members,
approving the annual budget and curriculum, and receiving financial, academic, and other
appropriate reports.
Membership in the Westminster Association is considered both a privilege and a
responsibility for Christian parents dedicated to providing a Christ-centered education for
their children. Association members are encouraged to attend both regular meetings and
any special meetings in order to effectively participate in the successful operation of our
school.
The Board of Directors
The Westminster Board of Directors is the chief policy-making body of the school,
consisting of no fewer than nine and no more than eighteen members. At the March
meeting of the Association, one-third of the directors are elected for a three-year term of
office. Board members are nominated on the basis of their prior interest and service to
Westminster.
In order to effectively govern Westminster, the Board is organized into five standing
committees and several special committees. Board members and parents outside of the
Board serve on these committees to provide leadership and direction for our school.
The standing committees are enrollment, finance, building and grounds, education, and
development.
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Wesminster Board of Directors, 2013-2014
Mr. Jeffrey G. Alldredge
Mr. Jeffrey X. Clay
Mr. Thomas C. Drury
Mr. Joseph M. Gruneisen
Mr. Peter B. Harre
Mr. Robert H. Johnson (Secretary)
Mr. Christopher M. Kehr (Vice President)
Mr. Michael H. Koby
Mr. Steven A. Linton (Past President)
Mr. Robert E. Mark
Mr. Bret Mehlhouse Rev. Jeffrey J. Meyers
Mr. Joel A. Montgomery, Jr.
Mr. Michael Ottsen (Treasurer)
Mr. Michael Stanfill (President)
Mr. Robert F. Wilkinson
Mr. Peter J. Zandstra
Faculty & Staff
The administrators and teachers at Westminster are appointed by the Board after careful
consideration of their spiritual, academic, and physical qualifications. All teachers and
administrators possess the minimum of a bachelor’s degree, but many hold a master’s
degree and beyond.
All members of the teaching staff must also declare their unconditional agreement with the
Constitution and Bylaws of Westminster Christian Academy. They must be members of a
church whose doctrine is in agreement with the Bylaws, must be scripturally sound in their
teaching, and must lead exemplary Christian lives.
The administrators and teachers are committed to serving our Lord and the families
of Westminster. If you have questions or concerns about a specific area of our school’s
curriculum or program, please contact the teachers and/or administrators who can help
you. As a school family, we must utilize effective communication to best achieve the goals
and objectives we have established for our school.
Parents Advancing Westminster
The mission of Parents Advancing Westminster (PAW) is to encourage all parents to come
alongside the administration, faculty and staff in taking an active role in their children’s
education and extracurricular activities. PAW is designed to bring together parents and
grandparents as we encourage Westminster students, as well as faculty and staff, to use
their gifts and talents to glorify Jesus. We ask that you prayerfully consider how you can
participate as a Westminster parent.
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Who Should I Call in Regard to........?
The following directory lists the person you need to speak with about that particular topic.
Absences/Tardiness:
Upper School: Ms. Betty Richardson
Middle School: Ms.Teri Haxel
Academic Hub: Ms.Diane Miller/Ms. Marjan Kempen
Admissions: Ms. Peggy Johnson
Athletics:
Upper School: Mr. Todd Zell
Middle School: Mr. J.D. Perona
Bookstore: Ms. Diane Miller
Business: Mr. Todd Fuller
Classroom Concerns: Contact classroom teacher first; then contact:
Upper School: Dr. Scott Holley
Middle School: Mr. Steve Hall
College Information: Ms. Kate Kindbom or Ms. Karen Aaberg
Curriculum Concerns:
Upper School: Dr. Scott Holley, Academic Dean
Middle School: Steve Hall, Head of Middle School
Discipline:
Upper School: Mr. Tim Hall, Upper School Dean of Students
Middle School: Mr. Steve Hall, Head of Middle School
Drop Course and/or Schedule Change:
Upper School: Mr. Cory Snyder, Registrar
Middle School: Mr. Steve Hall, Head of Middle School
Financial Aid: Ms. Eileen Goebel, Director of Student Accounts and Financial Aid
Illness of Student: Ms. Susan Haverstick, School Nurse
Personal Problems of Students:
Upper School: Ms. Kathy Karigan
Middle School: Mr. Craig Walseth
Teacher Conference
Upper School: Teacher or Ms. Kathy Karigan
Middle School: Teacher or Mr. Craig Walseth
Transcripts/Report Cards
Upper School: Ms. Betty Richardson
Middle School: Ms. Teri Haxel
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SECTION 3
General Policies
IN THIS SECTION
• Lockers
• Lost & Found
• Restrooms
• Snow Announcements
• Social Events
• Telephones
• Text Books
• Campus Visitors
• Facility Use
• Withdrawing from Westminster
• Student Search & Seizure
• Junior/Senior Privileges
• Attendance & Absences
• Bookstore
• Building & Grounds
• Cafeteria
• Change of Address/Telephone Number
• Complaint or Problem Procedures
• Students with Disabilities
• Discipline
• Discipline Procedures
• Pregnancy Policy
• Dress Code
• Student Drivers
• Hall Passes
• School Hours/After School Supervision
Attendance & Absences
Westminster is committed to the philosophy and practice of classroom academic
instruction. Each school day provides new learning experiences and opportunities to grow.
In addition, the social and relational aspects of the learning process are as significant as the
content and subject matter. While some elements of a missed classroom experience may be
repeated or recovered, certain other facets are lost, to the student’s detriment. Therefore, it
is expected that students attend and participate in all classes. Some absences, however, are
inevitable and unavoidable. The following attendance policy will be utilized to encourage
faithful attendance and ensure student performance:
Excused Absences
If a student must be absent on a school day, a parent must notify the appropriate school
office before 9 a.m. This is considered an “excused absence.” All students will be limited to
5 excused absences (EA) per class per quarter without penalty. For each EA in excess of 5,
a 1% quarter grade reduction/class will be applied.
In the case of severe and/or prolonged illness (for example, when hospitalization is
required), exceptions to the maximum absence policy may be made at the discretion of
the school administration. A doctor’s note is required within one week of any extended
absences. Classroom work will be made up at the discretion of the appropriate teacher,
department head or administrator.
Unexcused Absences
When a parent fails to contact the appropriate school office to excuse his/her student’s absence,
it is considered an “unexcused absence.” Additionally, organized “skip days” by classes or groups
of students are considered unexcused absences. Any unexcused absences (UA) will result in a 1%
reduction in his/her quarter grade per UA. Students will be required to make up missed work
according to the direction of the appropriate teacher. Appeals of unexcused absences must be made
within one week of the absence.
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Family Trips
Students who desire to go on a family or college trip causing them to be absent from
school for more than two days must make prior arrangements with the appropriate school
office. A Trip Form can be obtained by sending a note from home indicating the dates and
purpose of the trip. The completed form must be returned to the appropriate school office
in advance of the trip (5 school days prior to the trip is recommended). After reviewing the
reason for the requested absence, the input from the teachers, and the current academic
status of the student, a decision will be made as to the advisability of the absence.
Students who are absent are required to hand in all missed assignments and take all missed
tests/quizzes within the number of days equal to the number of days absent.
Leaving Campus
• If a student becomes ill, he/she must report to the school nurse to telephone his/
her parents for permission to leave campus. Students should not use pay phones or
personal cell phones for this purpose. Parents must give permission to the school
nurse before a student leaves campus.
•If a student must leave campus during the school day, a parental note must be
presented to the appropriate school office at the beginning of the school day, at
which time the student will be given a pass for dismissal from class. In the event of
something unforeseen, a parent must call the appropriate office with permission
before a student will be allowed to leave campus.
•Prior to leaving campus, the student must sign out in the appropriate school office.
Students must report to the office when returning to be issued an admittance pass.
•Students who leave school without permission or who do not sign out in the office
before leaving will receive an unexcused absence for all class time missed. Additionally,
a conduct detention may be issued by the Head of Middle School/Upper School
Dean of Students if deemed appropriate.
Tardiness
In order to best develop and utilize their God-given talents, students must be wise stewards
of their class time each day. Punctual arrival to class and school each day is crucial to the
effective operation of our school and the enhancement of individual self-discipline. It
is therefore important to fully understand and support the following tardy policies and
expectations.
•Students who arrive after 7:55 a.m. (9:30 a.m. on Thursdays) must report to the office
for a pass.
•Students are expected to be in their classroom and seated when the bell rings.
•All tardies to the first hour of the day will be unexcused. This includes 2nd or 3rd
periods when they are the first block on upper school block schedule.
•A tardy becomes an unexcused absence fifteen (15) minutes after classes begin if the
appropriate school office does not receive a note or telephone call.
Tardiness to individual classes/study hall/Advisory will be treated on a quarterly basis in the
following manner:
1st: No consequence.
2nd: No consequence.
3rd: (4th for 1st period): Teacher contacts parents.
4th (5th for 1st period): 30-minute detention with teacher
5th (6th for 1st period) and any additional: Conduct detention
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Bookstore
The bookstore operates as a service to families. It is open daily. P.E. uniforms, a variety of
school supplies, and school spirit items are available for purchase and may be paid for by
cash, check or through a bookstore debit account.
Building & Grounds
Through the generous contributions of prayer, energy, and financial resources of many
parents and friends of Westminster, we are blessed with a beautiful facility. All of us must
assume a personal responsibility for the care and upkeep of the buildings and grounds of
our school.
Any damage to the buildings, grounds, or furnishings of Westminster must be repaired
and/or replaced at the expense of those causing the damage. Students may also be subject
to disciplinary action if they willfully or negligently cause the destruction of school
property.
Café
The school Café offers students a variety of hot and cold foods each day. Students may
bring their lunches from home or purchase items from the Café. Students are expected to
display good manners, to assist in keeping the Café clean by removing items from the table
when finished, and to clean up the area where they eat.
Students will be permitted in the kitchen only with a school pass or when doing volunteer
work. Access to the kitchen facilities for use by students or parents will be available when
necessary.
Parents have the option to deposit funds into a prepaid meal account. The students are
then issued a debit card that is used for purchases in the Café. In order to open a prepaid
meal account, write a check payable to Westminster Christian Academy and send to the
Westminster Business Office. Please include your child’s name and grade on the memo
line of your check. The initial deposit is $75. Funds may be added to your child’s account
at any time.
Change of Address/Telephone Number
Please notify the Business Office as soon as possible regarding any change in a student’s
address or telephone number. This information is imperative for our financial, emergency,
and health records.
Complaint or Problem Procedures
During the course of the year, misunderstandings or problems can arise. This is often the
result of lack of communication between those involved. Westminster’s policy for dealing
with these situations and complaints is consistent with the teachings found in Matthew 18:
•All questions, problems or complaints should be brought to the teacher first before
anyone else is involved.
•If the situation is not cleared up at this level through direct contact, it should then be
brought to the appropriate administrator.
•If the situation is not solved at this level, it should then be presented in writing to the
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chairman of the Education Committee of the Board for inclusion in the agenda of the
regular monthly meeting of the Education Committee.
•Finally, but only when all of the above three steps have been taken, the problem is
submitted to the Board of Directors through written appeal from the Education
Committee or the parent or teacher. It will then be placed on the agenda of the entire
Board of Directors at its regular monthly meeting.
Students with Disabilities
Westminster requires the parent or guardian of any student with a diagnosed disability who
desires accommodations to provide the school with a request for the accommodations and
evidence establishing the disability. Parents or guardians must notify both the Director of
Special Services and the Guidance Counselor (Middle or Upper School) of any requests
for accommodations based on disability. Students with a current school year ISP meet this
notification requirement through the ISP process.
Discipline
Since Westminster Christian Academy is dedicated to honoring Jesus Christ, all of us must
represent our school with behavior and attitudes that are pleasing to Christ and further
the cause of His kingdom. Our conduct and speech should always seek to follow God’s
directive to “love Him above all and our neighbor as ourselves.”
In order to direct our behavior down the path our Lord sets before us in the Bible, the
following guidelines have been established:
Respect: Act in such a way that you demonstrate proper respect for God, school
authorities, school rules and policies, school property, the feelings and rights of other
students, and yourself.
Honesty: Be honest in all school situations, including the taking of tests, the completion
of homework, and in the interrelationships that are a part of daily school life.
Integrity: Use language and display character that is properly moral and Christ-like.
Cooperation: Cooperate with the faculty and staff in achieving the goals of
Westminster regarding conduct, performance, and attitude.
Effort: Use the gifts God has given you to the best of your ability in accordance with
God’s will for your life and proper Christian stewardship.
Student misconduct at Westminster is divided into two categories: Type A Behavior, which
is considered serious, and Type B Behavior, which is less serious but still inappropriate and
unacceptable. Students who violate standards in either category will be subject to discipline
as deemed appropriate by the administration.
Type A Behaviors
These may result in suspension and/or expulsion. Type A Behavior infractions include but
are not limited to the following:
•Possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and tobacco products on
campus or at school-sponsored activities.
•Possession and/or use of dangerous or potentially dangerous items such as guns,
knives, matches or lighters and fireworks.
•Spoken or written threats made towards anyone.
•Fighting.
•Honesty infractions such as lying, stealing, forgery, plagiarism, or cheating. If
students are found cheating on homework, tests, or quizzes, they will also receive a
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zero for that work.
•Skipping school (all work missed will be given a zero).
•Setting a fire or pulling the fire alarm.
•Excessive detentions and/or behavioral problems.
•Participation in pranks against the school or school property.
•Racial or ethnic slurs, discrimination, hazing, intimidating others, or engaging in hate
acts/remarks and all other verbal or physical conduct of a racial, ethnic, or otherwise
offensive nature.
•Sexual harassment: meaning unwelcome sexual advances and all other verbal (e.g.
sexually offensive jokes, innuendoes, and other sexually oriented statements or
behavior) or physical conduct of a sexual or otherwise offensive nature.
•Bullying: meaning any systematic or chronic conduct that physically, emotionally
or mentally harms a student or creates an intimidating or hostile environment that
interferes with a student’s educational opportunities.
Type B Behaviors
These may result in reprimand, pink slip, work assignment, conduct detention, suspension,
or other forms of disciplinary action. Type B Behavior infractions include, but are not
limited to the following:
•Profanity, obscenity, and/or vulgar speech.
•Insubordination or disrespect.
•Classroom disruptions.
•Inappropriate access to the Westminster computer network, misuse of school
technology, or violation of the Westminster iPad-use/Internet-use policy.
•Use of cell phones during class or chapel times for upper school students, and during
school hours for middle school students.
•Use of personal technology for playing video games, watching movies or music videos
at any time during school day.
•Possession and/or use of skateboards, scooters, roller blades, or roller shoes on
campus.
•Running and/or horseplay in the building.
•Sending out for food during the school day without teacher permission.
•Public displays of affection and/or inappropriate physical contact between students.
•Entry into certain “off limits” areas of the building or grounds: kitchen, maintenance
areas, closets, storage areas, and busses.
•Skipping a class. (Note: Any work that is missed—tests, quizzes, and/or homework may
receive a zero when skipping is involved.)
•Reckless driving on the school parking lot or parking violations.
Students who engage in other serious misconduct in or outside of school not expressly
covered by the foregoing standards (e.g. Facebook or other Internet abuse), but which
is disruptive to school operations and detrimental to good order and discipline, may be
subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension and/or expulsion.
Discipline Procedures
Student Responsibility
As members of a Christian community who are concerned for one another, students are
expected to follow the guidelines of our Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:15-17) when aware
of violations of the school standards. This will usually mean the following:
First: Personally confront the person and encourage him to stop the violation and
to make known his problem to those in authority. The problem should not be
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communicated to other students who are not immediately involved.
Second: Others who are aware of the problem should be encouraged to talk to the
person if the first step is unsuccessful.
Third: It is the responsibility of the student, in obedience to the Lord’s command,
to report a violation to school authorities so that the one who has committed the
violation can be helped. Inability or failure to follow the first two steps should not
keep a student from following the last.
Teacher Responsibility
Individual teachers will handle inappropriate behavior in their own classrooms. It is
expected that most disciplinary problems will hopefully be resolved between the student
and teacher.
Pink Slips
Pink slips can be issued for minor infractions (e.g. leaving bags in the hall or dress code
violations). A Conduct Detention is assigned for every two pink slips issued per term.
Detention Hall
After-school detention will be held each Tuesday and Thursday from 3:15–4:15 p.m. in
Room B121. The following is the quarterly progression for Conduct Detentions:
First: One-hour detention.
Second: One-hour detention.
Third: One-day suspension (1 percent reduction in quarter/semester grades).
Fourth: Two-day suspension (2 percent reduction in quarter/semester grades) and
possibly a Behavior Contract instituted.
Fifth: Consideration of withdrawal.
Students will be issued detentions by the Head of Middle School, Head of Upper School,
Dean of Students or teachers. The student will have two dates from which to choose to
serve the detention. The student is to take the detention notice home to inform his parents
and make transportation arrangements. The signed detention form must be turned in at
the beginning of the detention time (3:15 p.m.).
No detention may be served without a parent’s signature on the detention form. Failure to
serve a detention on one of the two dates assigned on the form will result in an additional
one-hour detention.
Detentions are considered a form of disciplinary punishment and should be regarded as
such by students in the detention hall. Students will be expected to complete a written
assignment or work detail as assigned by the detention hall monitor. Homework or other
study may be done after the written assignment has been successfully completed. Talking,
sleeping, eating, drinking, chewing gum, or causing any kind of disturbance will not be
tolerated. Any violations will result in a five-minute extension of the detention time per
offense.
Severe and/or Chronic Behavior
If a student is involved in behavior inconsistent with the mission of the school, or has
reached the limit of the classroom teacher’s discipline plan, he/she will be subject to
appropriate disciplinary action.
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Suspension
A student may be suspended for Type A or Type B Behavior violations. When possible, inschool suspensions will be used. On the day of an in-school suspension, the student must
report to the office by 7:30 a.m. with enough academic work to occupy his/her time for
the day. Students suspended from school are not permitted to participate in after-school
practices, rehearsals, performances, or athletic contests on the day(s) of their suspensions.
The student is released at 3:30 p.m. A reentry meeting with parents, administrators, and/or
teachers may be required.
Behavior Contract
A student who consistently displays behavior or attitudes in opposition to the standards
and requirements of Westminster could be placed on a Behavior Contract. The following
conditions will define this procedure:
•Students will be placed on a Behavior Contract at the discretion of the school
administration and teachers after careful evaluation, prayer, and consultation with
parents.
•The probation period will last for at least one semester.
•The Behavior Contract must be signed by the student, a parent, and an administrator.
•The contract will describe the behavior problem and the conditions for improvement.
•A Behavior Contract may specify that the student on probation will not represent
Westminster as a member of any team, organization, activity, or group.
Expulsion
Students who do not respond to corrective measures and continue to exhibit negative
behavior and/or attitudes, who are involved in very serious misconduct, or who bring
discredit to Westminster Christian Academy, may be expelled or asked to immediately
withdraw. Parents may appeal the expulsion of their child to the Board of Directors.
Pregnancy Policy
When the administration becomes aware of a pregnancy, the students involved will
be suspended for an indefinite period of time (not less than 5 days) to allow for an
investigation of the facts, discernment of the spiritual condition of the students involved,
and the appropriate response of the school. Continued enrollment at Westminster
will be conditional upon the approval of the Head of School, with the support of the
Education Committee and the Board of Directors. Such approval will include the following
stipulations:
•The students must reside with parents or legal guardian under ordinary circumstances.
Married students will not be permitted to continue enrollment at Westminster.
•The students and parents must be willing under ordinary circumstances to enter into
a working relationship with the school and their church. The administration will
make contact with the student’s pastor to assess the spiritual condition of the student
and his/ her parent, and to form a cooperative plan with the intention of bringing the
student back into a proper relationship with the Lord and encouraging appropriate
behavior.
•Students involved in a pregnancy and their parents must support open, timely, factual
communication with the Westminster student body and parent community.
•If the indefinite suspension of Westminster students continues beyond one week,
Westminster will under ordinary circumstances help students fulfill their academic
responsibilities.
•In addition, students involved in a pregnancy may later be asked to pursue
home-bound instruction and/or be suspended from the privilege of representing
Westminster in school-sponsored performances, including athletics, music, drama,
and leadership positions. Normally, those students will be permitted to participate in
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graduation and receive all appropriate academic honors.
•In order to be considered for continued enrollment, the students and parents must
fully cooperate with the school’s attempts to fulfill these conditions.
Standardized Dress Code
• Lands’ End is our official clothing provider. Purchasing from this vendor is required
to ensure
compliance with Westminster’s standardized dress code policy.
• Lands’ End Information
oo Shop online using Westminster’s standardized dress website at www.landsend.
com/school. Click on “Find Your School’s Dress Code,” then “Look Up
Your School.” Enter our state, city and school name OR our preferred school
number (900145103) to enter Westminster’s online store. This site will provide
you with information on all approved dress code styles and colors.
oo Styles and colors not listed should not be purchased for school dress. Please
follow the approved color key.
oo Lands’ End will embroider the Westminster logo on select items for an
additional charge of $5.50 per item. Please note that the school logo is
mandatory on all Land’s End shirts/tops.
Fit Guidelines
• Shorts and skirts may not be more than 3 inches above the top of the knee.
• In addition to Land’s End fleece jackets or button-up sweaters, students may wear
WCA team/organization/bookstore outerwear, specifically sweatshirts, jackets or
pullovers. Students must dress so that if they chose to remove their team, organization
or bookstore outerwear that they are still in compliance with the WCA standardized
dress code (i.e. Land’s End shirts/tops are worn underneath)
• All shirts should extend below the waist of the student and the waistband of the slacks
or skirt. If a student’s midsection can be seen at any time, the shirt should not be
worn to school. Here are two good tests:
1. When you raise one hand above your head, if your midsection can be seen, the
shirt is too short.
2. When you bend or sit, if your shirt is too short or tight and rides up to expose
your midsection, your shirt is too short.
• Girls: No bra straps, cleavage, or midriff should show at any time (including when
bending over).
• Clothing should not be too tight or too loose (pants must stay up at your waist).
Additional Guidelines
•Shoes may be athletic or dress-type. Sandals must have a strap across the heel.
• Hair (for boys) must not hang in the eyes or be longer than collar length.
• Distracting or inappropriate hairstyles and unnatural colors are not allowed.
• Hats, caps, bandanas, head scarves and other headwear are not permitted during the
school day.
• Visible tattoos and body piercing, with the exception of girls’ earrings, are prohibited
for both genders. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings.
There may be special days when the dress code is modified.
•This includes casual days when students may wear Westminster spirit wear tops (either
Westminster Spirit T-shirts or T-shirts/tops purchased from the Westminster
Bookstore) and jeans. Jeans must be free of holes and tears.
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• Dress during spirit week is expected to be modest at all times.
• Students are expected to dress appropriately for school-sponsored social events. Girls’
formal dresses should be modest with necklines revealing absolutely no cleavage.
Midriffs must be covered.
A student who is observed to be in violation of these guidelines will be liable
for disciplinary action; a parent may be notified via phone or email for dress
code infractions. Students are issued a pink slip for dress code violations, and an
accumulation of two pink slips per quarter results in a conduct detention.
In addition, the administration may immediately do one of the following: (1) send
individual students home for violations; (2) require parents to bring appropriate clothing
from home. Parents are urged to carefully monitor the clothing worn by their students
when they leave for school and school functions.
Westminster reserves the right to request that students refrain from wearing or displaying a
particular style of dress, makeup, or hairstyle that calls undue attention to them and/or is
judged inconsistent with the standards that define the rules and policies of Westminster.
Students are expected to conform to the dress code during exam week. The administration
retains the right to monitor the dress of Westminster students during school functions
both on and off campus, and to request compliance from students when necessary.
Student Drivers & Student Parking
Students who park on campus are required to purchase a parking permit and park only in
the areas designated for student parking immediately upon arrival on campus. Once cars
have been parked, they may not be removed during the school day without permission.
Westminster reserves the right to search any vehicle parked on school property for
prohibited items outlined in the Discipline section of this handbook. The driver of the
vehicle will be considered the responsible party if a prohibited item is found. No loitering
in the parking lot is permitted.
Extreme caution is to be exercised at all times when driving in the parking lot. Drive slowly
and carefully and always give pedestrians the right-of-way. Students who are in violation of
these guidelines will be disciplined and could lose their driving privilege.
Carpool
Please reference the carpool diagram.
Student Transportation
Transportation of students to school-related events occurring during the school day
or immediately after school will be provided by a school bus whenever practical.
Transportation of smaller groups may be accommodated by vehicles (owned or rented)
driven by students or adults.
Whenever student transportation will be accommodated by a means other than a school
bus (e.g., students driving themselves or riding with another student or adult), the student
and parent will be required to sign a travel authorization form acknowledging their
approval of the method of transportation.
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Hall Passes
Students in the halls during class periods are required to have a pass signed by a teacher or
staff member when going from one teacher to another.
School Hours/After-School Supervision
School hours are from 7:55 a.m. to 3 p.m. (9:25 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursdays). Students
should not be in the hallways before 7 a.m. (or 8:30 a.m. on Thursdays) or after 3:45 p.m.
unless under the direct supervision of a faculty or staff member.
Lockers
A locker is assigned to each student at the beginning of the school year. Because important
school communications are frequently placed in lockers, it is important that each student
use only the locker assigned to him/her.
Students are encouraged to lock their school lockers. Only combination locks provided
by the school may be used. These are available for a $5 fee ($10 deposit, $5 refund upon
return) from the Upper and Middle School Administrative Assistants.
Students should keep their lockers clean and neat with no open containers of food or
drink in them. Decorating the inside of lockers is permissible if tastefully done. Pictures
that are not offensive to the Westminster community may be posted with removable tape.
Outside decorations are limited to Westminster teams and organizations only.
Students must not remove or deface their name/ID stickers on the outside of lockers.
Special locker stickers recognizing a student’s participation as a member of a Westminster
athletic team, school club/organization or special activity (such as musical or fall play)
may be tastefully added to a student’s name/ID sticker on the outside of his or her locker.
These stickers must be no larger than 1.5” x 1.5”.
Outside locker decorations for birthdays, special recognition or sports events will be
removed the next day. Any exceptions must be approved by the Head of Middle School or
Upper School Dean of Students.
Although a locker is for the private use of the individual student, the faculty and
administration reserve the right to search student lockers and contents if necessary.
Lost & Found
Unclaimed articles will be placed in the lost and found. Students may check in the
following locations for lost or missing personal items and textbooks.:
• Jewelry, money, or other items of value should be brought to the Middle School
Office or the Student Services Office.
• Unclaimed Land’s End clothing items will be located in the Student Services Office
or Middle School Office.
• All other clothing or personal items will be located in marked lost and found mobile
storage units located in the hallway outside the Maintenance Office (near the Café’
food line entrances).
At the end of each semester, unclaimed items will be donated to a charity.
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Restrooms
Students may use the restrooms before and after school, between class periods, and during
lunchtime. Loitering in restrooms is not permitted. Students who are ill should report to
the school nurse and not go to and/or remain in a restroom.
Snow Announcements
In case the school is closed or operating on the snow schedule because of inclement
weather and poor traveling conditions, Westminster will inform local media as early as
possible. Parents are advised to watch/listen to broadcasts early in the morning and during
the day if a storm develops during school hours. Starting time for the snow schedule is 9:30
a.m. All households may also be contacted by the school’s automated voice message system.
Social Events
The scriptural standard for social activities can be summarized in God’s directive in 1
Corinthians 10:31: “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of
God.” Wholesome activities are heartily commended as examples of ways in which we may
glorify God and delight in His world and one another.
Dancing (with the exception of square dancing) is not permitted at school or school
sponsored events. While not making a moral judgment regarding social dancing, the
Westminster Board of Directors has formulated this policy on the basis of two arguments:
1) the difficult task of setting and monitoring limits to ensure that social dancing would be
truly honoring to the Lord and edifying to a holy life; and 2) the fact that social dancing
would create an offense for some of our Westminster family.
The following should guide school-sponsored social activities:
•Teachers and parent chaperones involved in the planning of social activities with
classes and student groups should make sure that students are properly chaperoned
at all times, and should assume the responsibility of holding students accountable
to conduct them- selves in a manner consistent with Westminster’s standards and
expectations.
•Modest attire should be worn at all social activities. Modest swimwear (preferably onepiece suits for ladies and boxer shorts for men) is required.
•School activities will not be held on Sunday (with the exception of musical
performances that constitute all or part of worship services).
Telephones
Office phones are not for student use in the Upper School. Please handle family
communication prior to the school day. Office personnel should not be expected to deliver
messages regarding appointments, transportation, and other business. Emergency messages
from parents will be placed in students’ assigned lockers during designated periods of the
school day. Students will not be called to the office to answer telephone calls. No messages
will be communicated after 2:30 p.m.
Textbooks
Most textbooks are loaned to students and therefore remain the property of Westminster.
Students are responsible for the care and protection of textbooks and will be charged for
any that are lost or unreasonably worn or damaged. All hardbound textbooks are to be
covered by the beginning of the second week of school. Some classes may require special
supplies, materials, or books that are not furnished by the school. Teachers will provide
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ample instructions regarding the acquisition of these required classroom materials.
Campus Visitors
Westminster has established the following guidelines regarding campus visitors:
•No visitors are allowed to attend classes without permission from the Admissions
Office.
•Non-Westminster students seeking enrollment are permitted to visit the campus and
attend classes only upon prior approval of the Director of Admissions. Parents of the
visitor or host student must make arrangements with the Director of Admissions at
least one day in advance. All visitors will be issued a visitor’s pass from the school
receptionist on the morning of their visit.
•A friend visiting a Westminster student from out of town may only attend classes for
one day per year after making prior arrangements with the Admissions Office.
•All other campus visitors should sign in at the school receptionist desk to receive a
visitor’s pass.
•With the exception of family members, alumni and youth pastors, lunch visitors
are not permitted. Visitors must sign in at the school receptionist desk to receive a
visitor’s pass.
•Parents, grandparents and alumni are always welcome at chapel, assemblies, and all
cocurricular activities.
Withdrawing from Westminster
If during the school year it becomes necessary for a student to withdraw from Westminster,
the following steps are to be completed:
1. A written notification from the parents or guardians requesting the withdrawal must
be presented to the Director of Admissions.
2.A withdrawal form will be sent to each teacher, along with the librarian, bookkeeper,
and coaches, to initial, indicating that all books have been collected, fines paid,
tuition and fees paid in full, and any other items have been returned.
3.The withdrawal form will then be submitted to the appropriate principal. If all
obligations have been met and there are no outstanding financial responsibilities,
transcripts will be forwarded at the request of the receiving school.
4.Parents will be asked to complete a withdrawal questionnaire that will assist the
administrative staff and School Board in evaluating school curriculum and programs.
Student Search & Seizure
The administration recognizes that incidents may occur which jeopardize the health,
safety, and welfare of students and staff and which necessitate the search and seizure of
students, their property, cars, or their lockers by school officials. Students shall be free
from unreasonable searches and seizures by school officials. School officials may search a
student’s outer clothing, pockets, or property by establishing a reasonable cause or securing
the student’s voluntary consent.
The search is reasonable if it meets both of the following criteria:
1.The action is justified at the inception, i.e. the school official has reasonable grounds
for suspecting that the search will uncover evidence of a rule and/or criminal
violation.
2.The scope of the search is reasonably related to the circumstances that justified the
search in the first place, i.e., the measures adopted are reasonably related to the
objectives of the search and are not excessively intrusive in light of the age and gender
of the student and the nature of the infraction.
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Junior Privileges
Juniors with no incomplete grades or semester/4th quarter grades below a C average for
any course in the second semester of their sophomore year are eligible to exercise “junior
privilege,” provided they have first submitted a signed junior privilege form to Mrs. Brown
in the Student Services Office. This privilege allows juniors to report to either the Cafe or
the 11th and 12th Grade Commons instead of the academic hub during their study hall
period only. The administration reserves the right to suspend or revoke junior privileges for
disciplinary or academic reasons.
Senior Privileges
Seniors with no incomplete grades or semester/4th quarter grades below a C average for
any course in the second semester of their junior year are allowed to leave campus during
their study hall period, provided they have first submitted a signed senior privilege form
to Mrs. Richardson in the Upper School Office. Seniors who abuse this privilege in any
way may have their senior privileges temporarily suspended or permanently revoked. The
administration reserves the right to suspend or revoke senior privileges for disciplinary or
academic reasons.
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SECTION 4
Program of Instruction
IN THIS SECTION
• Chapel
• Parent–Teacher Conferences
• Academic Distinctions
• Plagiarism
• Guidance & Counseling
• Classroom Procedures
• Materials Selection Guidelines
• Student Leadership
• Student Records
•Upper School Academic Policies
• Grade Reporting (Schoolmaster) & Grading Procedure
• National Junior Honor Society/
National Honor Society
• Standardized Testing
• Summer School
• Tutoring Policy
Chapel
Weekly chapel service is a key component of community life at Westminster. Chapel is
intended to promote spiritual growth and to provide students and staff the opportunity
to worship God together. Guest speakers, musical groups, drama presentations, as well as
Westminster students and faculty members, lead these services. Parents are always welcome
to attend chapel.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-teacher conferences will be held on the dates indicated on the annual school
calendar. Both evening and daytime conferences will be scheduled to make conferences
available to all parents. Parents are encouraged to utilize these conferences to communicate
directly with their student’s teachers.
Conferences with a teacher at any time of the school year are both welcomed and
encouraged. It is only through close home and school cooperation and communication
that the true educational ideals of Westminster can be achieved. Please contact the teacher
directly or a guidance counselor if you desire a conference with a teacher.
Academic Distinctions
Students who distinguish themselves through outstanding academic achievement will be
placed on one of the following honor rolls at the conclusion of each semester: President’s
List: Students with a GPA of 4.0 or above.
Honor Roll: Students with at least a 3.5 GPA.
Honorable Mention: Students with at least a 3.333 GPA.
At graduation, senior academic achievement will be honored as follows:
High Honors: Students with a four-year GPA of 3.667 or above.
Honors: Students with a four-year GPA of 3.333 and up to 3.666.
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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (Grades 9–12)
(Units required for each diploma.)
SUBJECT
HIGH SCHOOL
COLLEGE PREP
SCHOLARS
Bible 33
3
Business, Comm. and
1b1b1b
Technology
English3d
4 4
Fine Arts
1 d
11
World Language
02
2f
g
History2 33
Math2d3a4a
Physical Education
11
1
Science2 3c3c
Electives7d
34
TOTAL
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24 26e
The High School Diploma is available by administrative approval only.
a. Some colleges and universities require Algebra 1 as a fourth unit of mathematics.
Westminster offers Algebra 1 in 8th grade; therefore it does not count as a high school
unit.
b. Two half units of Business, Communications and Technology are required.
c. Physics, Biology, and Chemistry are the three sciences required for the College
Preparatory and Scholars Diplomas.
d. Elective Recommendation: a fourth year of English and a third year of math are
strongly recommended. The Missouri State High School Diploma requires two units
of fine arts.
e. At least four of these units must be AP classes. No semester grade less than a C- in an
AP
class is allowed. A minimum overall GPA of 3.5 is required.
f. In order to take an AP exam in a language, a student needs four years of that language.
g. History of Global Conflicts (1 semester), Western Civilization, Government (1
semester) and U.S. History are required courses.
Note: Seniors must fulfill all graduation requirements,including those for the senior
service program, by the end of the senior examination period in order to participate in the
graduation ceremony and receive a diploma.
Seniors who fail to meet these requirements will be placed on a contract specifying what
work is to be completed for graduation. The student will have until the first Monday in
August to complete the work or permanently forfeit the right to graduate.
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Promotion
In order for a student in the Upper School to be promoted to the next grade, the following
total number of credits must be earned prior to the start of the school year:
CUMULATIVE NUMBER OF
GRADE LEVEL
EARNED CREDITS
Entering Grade 8*2.5
Entering Grade 9*5
Entering Grade 10
6
Entering Grade 11
12
Entering Grade 12
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*Students must pass both math and English to be promoted.
Dropping or Adding a Course (Upper School)
Courses may be dropped or added only during the first two weeks of a semester, except in
emergency situations. Courses added after the two-week guideline may require adequate
tutoring, which will be the responsibility of the student and parents. Any student who is
removed from a class for disciplinary reasons after the first two weeks may receive an “F”
for the entire semester.
The following procedure should be followed to add or drop a course: (1) Student consults
with a guidance counselor and they fill out forms together; (2) Parent’s signature is required
first; (3) Teachers sign both the class-dropped and the class-added spaces; (4) the form is
returned to the guidance counselor for final signature and authorization.
Plagiarism
There are two distinct types of plagiarism: intentional plagiarism and unintentional
plagiarism. The intentional type can be identified by the following behaviors:
1. A student copies another’s paper completely or in part.
2. A student purchases or steals from the Internet an essay and claims it as his or
her own.
3. A student copies passages, ideas, statistics or wording from a book, periodical,
Web site or other source and claims it as his own without either parenthetical
citations or a listing on a works cited page. Intentional plagiarism is tantamount
to cheating. In such cases, students may receive the full punishment of
cheating—a zero and suspension.
However, on occasion students make inadvertent mistakes on papers because of
a failure to understand the breadth of plagiarism. Accordingly, we recognize that
sometimes students unintentionally plagiarize. Whether or not suspect wording
is merely a mistake in documentation or truly egregious plagiarism should be left
to teachers and administrators. Since this issue is not simply black or white,
fairness and clear judgment should prevail. Thus, the following shall serve as
examples of unintentional plagiarism:
1. A student lists a source on his works cited page but fails to include it
as an in-text citation.
2. A student does the reverse: he fails to put a parenthetical citation
cross-reference on the works cited.
3. A student unintentionally fails to put quotation marks around a
passage he paraphrases or summarizes.
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In such cases the teacher should deduct points for manuscript errors and use
the occasion to clarify what plagiarism is rather than imposing the full penalty for
outright plagiarism.
Guidance & Counseling
The Guidance and Counseling Department is committed to helping students recognize
their God-given talents and gifts and to develop them to their maximum potential.
Because they are God’s image bearers, we recognize that He has given each student unique
abilities and gifts that they are to use for Him. The guidance counselors, teachers, and
administrators are always available to help students understand themselves better, overcome
obstacles, and see God’s plan for their lives.
Personal Counseling: The disciplines of learning, growing, and living for Christ can
often confront students with significant challenges. They sometimes need help in their
relationships with God, with themselves, and with others. The guidance counselors,
administrators, teachers, and peer counselors are available to give them the love,
understanding, and direction that will help them work through difficulties.
Academic Counseling: Often, students will face decisions regarding courses and their
schedule. Difficulties with particular courses, misunderstandings with teachers, and
problems with studying or test taking may crop up on occasion, impeding academic
progress. The guidance counselors, teachers, and administrators can help students achieve
their academic goals.
College and Vocational Counseling: As students progress through the upper school
program, they will face important decisions regarding what college to attend or vocation
to pursue. The Guidance Department is trained to help students with the testing and
application process and will provide information about colleges and jobs.
Parent Support: Parenting adolescents in a godly manner is a task full of joy and challenges.
Questions about adolescent development, academic concerns and personal, social/
emotional issues often trouble parents. The guidance counselor(s) is available to schedule
meetings with parents or guardians to discuss any questions that might arise in this area.
The Guidance Department at Westminster exists for students. Students are encouraged to
ask for help when problems, questions, or concerns are bothering them.
Academic Hub
All students are invited and encouraged to make full use of the Academic Hub for research,
study, and reading. The library is open from 7 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday - Thursday and 7 a.m.–
4 p.m. on Friday.
In order to best utilize our Academic Hub, the following guidelines will be observed:
•No books, magazines, or reserve materials may be taken from the Academic Hub
unless checked out.
•Please respect others who are using the Academic Hub by working quietly.
•Students must pay for the replacement of any Academic Hub materials checked out in
their name that are damaged or lost.
•Students may have no more than five (5) books checked out of the Academic Hub at
one time.
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Failure to return the books will result in a fine that will be charged according to the
following:
a) Books: Five cents per day per book.
b) Magazines and Reserve Books: Ten cents per item per hour, not to exceed 80 cents
per day per item (due before school starts the following morning).
•Middle school students with outstanding fines at the end of the year will not receive
their grades. Upper school students will not be able to take semester exams unless all
fines are paid.
Physical Education
Physical education is an important part of each student’s total development at Westminster
and an integral part of our curriculum. The following guidelines will be in effect:
Attendance/Tardy
Attendance and tardiness to P.E. class will be treated the same as in any other Westminster
class. Students are to be in the locker room by the late bell and dressed and in their
designated spot five (5) minutes after the late bell.
Excuse Policy
A written excuse must be submitted to the P.E. teacher prior to class on the day of nonparticipation. The parental excuse should contain the reason for not participating and be
signed by the parent. All students not participating are given a written assignment that
is due at the end of the class period and is averaged into the daily grade. Students with
extended excuses (more than three days) will need written verification from both their
parents and a medical doctor stating the cause, duration, and possible moderate exercises.
Any unexcused non-participation will be averaged into the student’s final daily grade.
Uniform Policy
Students will be required to wear the Westminster t-shirts and shorts, white socks, and
athletic shoes. Clothing must be marked for identification.
General Physical Education Rules and Policies
General rules and policies for Physical Education (P.E.) classes are as follows:
•Jewelry must not be worn during the P.E. class.
•Glass containers are not permitted in the locker rooms.
•P.E. students are encouraged to take showers at the end of class.
•Students should bring a towel from home since towels are not supplied by
Westminster. Towels are to be taken home and laundered at least every other day.
•Students are expected to use provided P.E. lockers and locks to lock up all valuables
during P.E. class.
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Classroom Procedures
In order for students to have the freedom to make the most of every class period, certain
basic requirements and understandings have been established. As a community dedicated
to glorifying God and growing in Him, it is vital that each student contributes to each
learning activity and opportunity in a positive way.
Classroom Expectations
In order to promote a quality learning environment in each classroom and the
development of good manners, students are expected to follow the guidelines below:
Students should not speak out or express disapproval when another student or teacher has
the floor. Our attitude and manners should reflect our desire to follow Christ’s command
to love one another.
•Students should come to class with the proper supplies: textbooks, notebook,
homework, paper, pen or pencil.
•The teacher and not the bell will dismiss class. Students are not to leave their desks
before they are dismissed.
•Students should knock before entering a class that is in session.
•Students should wait to be recognized by the teacher before making a request.
•Windows, lights, heat, and blinds should be adjusted by the teacher or at the teacher’s
direction only.
•No dishes, utensils, or trays may be taken from the Cafe without permission or
supervision.
The following guidelines are to assist students:
Homework
Homework is considered to be an essential part of the academic program of Westminster.
Students can expect a reasonable amount of homework in each class every school day in
order to enhance classroom learning, prepare for the next day’s class, and establish traits
such as self-discipline and responsibility.
Homework assignments are expected to be handed in on time. Late assignments will
receive a lowered grade or might not be accepted at all, depending upon the discretion of
the individual teacher.
Students who miss class time to participate in cocurricular activities are expected to obtain
the assignments from the teacher or a classmate and come to the next class fully prepared.
Standards for Written Work
Proper spelling, punctuation, penmanship, and sentence structure are required. Written
work done poorly or sloppily may be returned to the student to be redone.
Tests and Examinations
Tests are an important part of each class, and exams are administered to students in 26
grades 9-12 at the conclusion of the second semester. Exams do not count more than 20
percent of the final semester grade. They may count less than 20 percent depending upon
the discretion of the teacher.
When tests or exams are missed due to an absence, they are to be taken at the teacher’s
convenience. The student is responsible to make the necessary arrangements.
26
Material Selection Guidelines
The Westminster Christian Academy community includes families that represent the broad
evangelical community, which means that different perspectives relating to biblical understanding and interpretation surface periodically. Therefore, it is important to understand
the criteria by which Westminster teachers choose curricular materials, including films and
texts, to be used in their classes. The following basic principles inherent in Westminster’s
Philosophy of Education guide decision making in this area:
Principle #1
We believe that all that we do must be designed to clarify the person and work of Jesus
Christ and to help Westminster students wrestle with the implications of living in a world
that seems terribly out of line with God’s design for mankind. Therefore, teachers must
choose materials for their classes that not only point to the beauty of God’s creation and
the wonder of His work on our behalf but to the impact of the Fall as well so that their
students can understand the world in which they live and how they can seek to have an
impact upon it under God’s direction for their lives.
Principle #2
We believe that Westminster teachers bear a great responsibility as partners with the home
and the church in the intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual development of the
children of Christian parents. Therefore, it is important that Westminster teachers carefully
consider the standards and expectations of parents when choosing materials to be used in
class.
Principle #3
We believe that much of the material produced by secular writers and directors must
be rejected out of hand because it is not designed to enlighten or instruct but merely to
titillate or appeal to the prurient interests of those who read or view their work. Material
that does not help students better understand the person and work of Christ, the desperate
condition of humanity apart from His sacrifice on the cross, and the bankruptcy of
worldviews that fail to embrace those truths should be avoided.
Principle #4
We believe that all truth-whether it comes from the pen of a Christian or a pagan-reflects
the wisdom that can come only from God. The implications of this statement help to
determine the materials teachers choose for their classes since the works of secular writers
can offer great insight into the nature of mankind and our estrangement from God.
Though the philosophies and worldviews of some writers run counter to the truths of
scripture, Christian teachers can use their works to show how the world thinks so that
students may wrestle with the implications of a life apart from God and are better able
communicate with those who do not embrace the truths of Christianity.
Principle #5
We believe that God has placed His people as agents of transformation in a fallen world.
With that end in mind, Westminster teachers must challenge students to understand how
the world thinks and acts so that those students will leave this school committed to that
task. Our goal is not to protect Christian students from the world; it is to prepare them to
change the world through service to God.
Given all of the above, teachers at Westminster Christian Academy are encouraged to
choose curricular materials that will enable students to discover who they are in the light
of God’s truth, embrace the implications of His work on their behalf, and accept their
27
role in carrying out that which God has called them to do. Whether they enter into work
that is typically considered secular or sacred, Westminster students should understand that
all work is to be done to the glory of God and that all work committed to Him is holy.
As Donovan Graham writes in Teaching Redemptively, “God has not created a split-level
world in which some dimensions are to be considered sacred and holy while others are
relegated to second-class status.” It is the goal of this school to work with the home and the
church to prepare the next generation to be Christ’s ambassadors in whatever arena He
chooses to place them, and because of that, the materials Westminster teachers use must be
geared toward that end.
Cocurricular Music and Film Selection Guidelines and Procedures
Westminster Christian Academy is blessed with many opportunities to broaden the scope
of the Christian education of students through special events and cocurricular activities.
Our school culture is marked by an understanding of the responsible freedoms we
are provided through the work of our Savior Jesus Christ. While we strive to focus
on relationship before rules, we also seek to encourage each other with the truth of I
Corinthians 10:23- 24: “All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable All things are
lawful, but not all things edify. Let no one seek his own good, but that of his neighbor.”
During events and cocurricular activities, we must seek the good of our guests and larger
community. Each event is an opportunity to be a positive example, holding to what is good,
true, and beautiful. Each event is also an opportunity to be a negative example– to confuse,
agitate, be a stumbling block, or appear inconsistent with the expectations of a distinctively
Christian school that has a positive reputation in the community.
In choosing music for such events, we do not try to determine if a song represents good or
bad music or if it is appropriate for students to listen to outside the classroom. What we are
trying to determine is if a song is appropriate to share with the public (inside and outside
our school) and is representative of Westminster Christian Academy.
This guide does not apply to the classroom/instructional use of music. The Material
Selection Guide (pages 18-19 in the Faculty Handbook) outlines how to purposefully
choose items for class discussion. Music of many kinds can be useful when it can be
explored in an educational setting. In a public setting, however, music is presented without
any discussion possible. If we are unable to give our audience a lens through which to view
a song, then the song must stand on its own.
Procedure for Helping Students Select Music for Events and Cocurricular Activities
Advisors, please exercise excellent leadership and positive communication by following the
procedures outlined below:
1. Have students submit song titles, band names, and lyrics to you for review in advance
of the function. If the music will be used for a performance, students should submit these
before they begin rehearsing. If a teacher, advisor, or coach is selecting music, please follow
the remaining steps in this procedure and the guidelines outlined in the General Guidelines
section below.
2. Read the lyrics of the entire song(s) –even if only a short instrumental section or version of
the song will be played– to determine its appropriateness for visitors, students, parents, grandparents, and younger children. Instrumental popular music with inappropriate lyrics, even if
not sung, is still considered inappropriate for events and cocurricular activities.
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3. Seek out an administrator (e.g. Athletic Director, Head of School, Dean of Students) if
you are uncertain about the decision or uncomfortable making it on your own.
4. Give your approval to the song selection, or suggest a change. If a change of music is
required, students must submit only the new portion for review.
5. Students should give the advisor a copy of the final song or mix of songs, in the event
there is a need to check against the actual music played.
General Guidelines
Teachers, advisors, coaches, and student leaders planning to use music in any function
outside the classroom should follow these general guidelines:
1. Generally, any music by Christian bands, those bands promoted as “Christian,”
may be played, unless specific portions of the song wouldn’t meet the other criteria
outlined within these guidelines.
2. Music by bands not professing to be Christian may be played but must be reviewed
care- fully. References (implicit or explicit) to violence, drugs, or sex will disqualify a
song.
3. Any profanity will disqualify the song for consideration.
4. A song that repeatedly or prominently uses questionable language or words with a
great deal of “shock value” for some younger audiences should also be avoided.
5. Bands with a general reputation for music about violence, drugs, or sex should not be
approved.
Procedures to Follow in Film Selection
Teachers in any grade planning to show an R-rated movie (or an unrated movie with an agespecific warning) to their classes or teachers planning to show a PG-13 film in grades 7-9
should follow the procedures outlined below:
1. Consult the Department Chair concerning the film to be shown to gain his/her
approval. It is important that the Department Chair view the potentially offensive
parts of the movie to understand what the possible objections might be and to
understand the rationale for showing the movie.
2. The teacher should send a letter home to parents two weeks before the viewing
date informing them of that fact, explaining the rationale for showing the film and
requesting a parent’s signature permitting his/her child to view the movie. If a parent
declines to allow his/her child to view the film, the teacher should be prepared to
offer an alternative assignment.
3. Remember that all letters sent home to parents should be routed through the
appropriate principal for approval.
4. In deciding whether to use a film in class, teachers should be ruled more by
discernment and an understanding of this community’s values than by the movie’s
rating alone in judging a movie’s appropriateness for the age level of their students.
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Student Leadership
Many leadership positions are open to Westminster students each year. Elections are held
each spring for the following school year. All students who meet the following criteria are
eligible to run for office:
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
• Faculty approval based on contact with the student in the areas of leadership,
character, behavior and attitude.
• Signing the Leadership Contract after election, which commits the student to: (1)
full participation in all functions; (2) execution of all necessary duties; (3) no
behavioral suspensions for the year; and (4) maintaining a minimum semester GPA of
2.0.
Student Council
Both a Middle School Leadership Council (grades 7-8) and a Student Council (grades 9-12)
have an integral role in the administration of school life and activities at Westminster.
The student councils also share in the supervision of student life as an advisory body to
the school administration and faculty. In addition to its advisory functions, the student
councils promote projects and social events that are beneficial to the overall development
of the students and Westminster.
Student Records
• Cumulative files for current students are kept in the Middle School or Upper School
Office and include grades, scores from standardized tests, teacher evaluations, interim
reports, special achievements, discipline records, and other pertinent information.
• Information from the cumulative files is not released outside the school without
parental permission.
Upper School Academic Policies
Unexcused Late Work
• Students will receive a 10 percent reduction per day for any major assignments (as
defined by the teacher) for the first five school days after the initial due date. After those
five days, the assignment will receive a zero.
• Major assignments submitted late on the actual due date(a student in second hour turns
in a paper after school, for example) will receive a five percent reduction.
Extra Credit
• Extra credit may be given at the discretion of the teacher but cannot raise a quarter
grade more than five percent.
• Extra credit assignments must receive prior approval by the teacher and must be relevant
to the course curriculum.
• Extra credit must be turned in/completed at least one week prior to the end of the
quarter.
Advanced Placement Courses
Advanced Placement classes play an important role in the curriculum of Westminster
Christian Academy in that they push students and teachers alike to strive for academic
excellence as defined by a nationally recognized standard. Because AP tests are difficult
and comprehensive, they challenge students both to master complex information and
demanding concepts and analyze and reflect upon that knowledge in sophisticated ways.
That students seeking to earn the Scholar’s Diploma must pass at least four AP courses
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with a grade of C- or better indicates the importance Westminster places upon Advanced
Placement work as a measure of academic rigor.
However, Advanced Placement tests should not be allowed to define or limit the
curriculum of an AP course. Both Westminster’s Philosophy of Curriculum and Philosophy
of Pedagogy encourage teachers to dig deeply into the ideas and concepts of each course to
ensure that students not only have a thorough knowledge base of important core concepts
but also the ability to understand the relevance of that information to their lives and to
God’s world at large. That means that in the interest of deeper student understanding,
teachers in each AP course have the freedom to adjust their curriculum to focus on that information most vital to that field of study at the expense of total coverage of every concept
or idea that might appear on an AP test. While Westminster believes that scores on an AP
test matter, a life-long love for a specific discipline matters more, so teachers should not
sacrifice the search for deeper understanding and a sense of wonder about God’s creation
to the urgency of covering material that may or may not appear on the AP exam.
Advanced Placement Test Policy
Students who fail to show up to take an Advanced Placement exam will be required to pay the return fee to the College Board for the unused AP test and will also be
required to take a final exam in that class.
Grade Reporting & Grading Procedure
• Grading Scale:
CreditPercent
GradePoints Range
A+
4.333
98–100
A
4.000
93–97
A-
3.667
90–92
B+
3.333
87–89
B
3.000
83–86
B-
2.667
80–82
C+
2.333
77–79
C
2.000
73–76
C-
1.667
70–72
D+
1.333
67–69
D
1.000
63–66
D-
0.667
60–62
F
0
Below 60
• myWestminster Access: Students and parents can access myWestminster at https://
portals.veracross.com/wca. Students and parents will gain access to myWestminster by
using their login and password provided by the school.
• Incompletes (“I”): If students fail to make up daily work or tests due to recent or
extended illness, they will receive an incomplete (“I”) on their grade report. They must
make up this work or make special arrangements with their teacher within one week
after the last day of the grading period to prevent the incomplete from becoming an
“F.” Students assume responsibility for initiating contact with teachers regarding
incompletes.
• A course is completed on the final day of the semester (US) or term (MS). No makeup
work may be submitted after the exam day for that course.
• Honors Credits: Students enrolled in courses designated as “Honors Courses” will
receive an additional 0.5 point added to grade of “C-” or above in that course (i.e.
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a student receiving a grade of “B” in an honors course will receive a 3.5 instead of a
3.0). All AP courses receive an additional 1.0 point. Please refer to the Online Course
Selection Guide for a complete listing of all Honors, Excel, and AP courses offered at
Westminster.
• When a student retakes a class for which he or she has already received a grade, both
the original grade and the second grade will be reported on the student’s transcript.
The second grade – not the first – will be used to compute the student’s GPA,
whether the second is an improvement or not.
National Junior Honor Society/National Honor Society
A National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) chapter (Grades 7–8) and the John B. Prentis III
National Honor Society (NHS) chapter (Grades 10-12) are sponsored by Westminster. Both
organizations are governed by the Constitution of the National Junior and National Honor
Societies. In order to be eligible for consideration for membership in both the NJHS and
NHS, students must have an unweighted cumulative grade point average of 3.500 or above
for NHS and 3.750 or above for NJHS and be enrolled at Westminster for at least one
semester. After meeting the scholarship requirement, candidates will also be evaluated in
regard to leadership, character, service (and citizenship for NJHS), as per the requirements
of the national constitution.
The following process will be utilized to review NJHS and NHS candidates:
• Students with a qualifying GPA and attendance are eligible for NJHS and NHS
membership. Students who wish to be considered for membership are requested to
write a letter of interest and complete an activity form.
• All teachers will be given the opportunity to evaluate the students they have contact
with in the areas of leadership, character, and service for the NHS, and leadership,
character, service, and citizenship for the NJHS.
• The appointed advisor for the NJHS and NHS will read and review each candidate’s
application and the faculty evaluations of leadership, character, service, and
citizenship. NHS candidates are required to have held an elected or appointed
leadership position in school, church or community organization prior to application.
• A faculty council makes final determination regarding acceptance for membership in
both the NJHS and NHS.
Members of both the NJHS and NHS are reviewed and evaluated each semester by the
faculty advisor of each organization. Students who are not maintaining the standards of the
NJHS or NHS in the areas of scholarship, leadership, character, service, or citizenship will
be placed on probation for one semester. Students may be dismissed from membership in
the NJHS and NHS if they do not improve their performance to minimum standards over
a specified period of time.
Standardized Testing
The standardized testing program for students in grades 7-12 provides for annual testing of
each student. Tests administered at Westminster include the following:
• Math and Language Arts placement testing for students entering grade 7.
•ERB Comprehensive Testing Program (CTP) —grades 7,8 and 9.
•The PLAN Test (Preliminary ACT)—grade 10.
•The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Qualifying
Test)—grade 11.
•Advanced Placement Exams—administered in May.
•Individual testing as needed for career counseling purposes.
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The Guidance Department administers all testing, communicates test scores to students
and parents, and keeps permanent records current.
The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) and the ACT (American College Test) are administered
at various test sites in the St. Louis area. Applications for these tests are available at
Westminster in the Guidance Department
The Westminster school code (CEEB code) required for ACT and SAT applications is 263121.
Summer School Academic Policy
• Teachers wishing to offer a summer school course for academic credit must receive
approval from their Department Chair before the proposal is sent on to the
Administrative team via the Academic Dean for final approval.
• Summer school courses offered for credit at Westminster are typically open only to
Extended Learning Center-The Learning Center students, and students who need to
make up a credit because of academic failure. Students facing unusual circumstances
may be allowed to take a summer school course for credit with permission of the
Academic Dean and the Upper School Counselor.
• To receive credit in any academic course, students must attend class for 20 hours and
complete 15 hours of work outside of class. All written work — tests, essays, projects,
etc. — must be collected in a portfolio to be graded by the Summer School teacher
and turned in to the Upper School Counselor and Academic Dean for review before
credit will be granted.
• Financial arrangements for summer school classes must be approved by the Director
of Finance.
• Only one credit can be earned per student per summer.
Summer School Enrollment
Requests for credit granted by summer school programs outside of Westminster must be
approved by the US Counselor and the Academic Dean in advance. Students are not
permitted to take summer classes for credit except for credit recovery or for enrichment.
Enrichment courses may be taken to earn elective credit only. Completion of a summer
enrichment class does not excuse students from fulfilling all of the credit demands
mandated by Westminster’s graduation requirements, nor does it allow a student to attend
Westminster part-time once credits sufficient for graduation have been earned. Only one
high school credit can be earned per student per summer.
Tutoring Policy
Upper School students seeking credit through a one-on-one tutorial must receive
permission from the Academic Dean and Upper School counselor. Middle School
students seeking credit through a one-on-one tutorial must receive permission from the
Middle School counselor. To receive credit, students must spend at least 20 hours in
direct contact with the tutor and complete 15 hours of work outside of class. All written
work (tests, essays, projects, etc.) must be collected in a portfolio to be graded by the
tutor and turned in to the Upper School or Middle School Counselor for review before
credit will be granted. Tutors must submit a copy of their teaching certificate or letter of
recommendation and a resume before being approved to tutor a Westminster student for
credit.
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SECTION 5
Health & Safety
IN THIS SECTION
• Health Records
• Physicals
• Immunizations
• Medication
• Illness
• Accidents/Injuries
• Student Insurance
The Westminster School Board will provide for the health and physical well-being of
students through the establishment of a Student Health Service Program in the school. The
purpose of the health program is to help each student attend school in optimum health
and to benefit from the school experience.
Registered nurses will be employed to staff the health service program. The school nurse
will serve under the direction of the Head of Middle School and Upper School Dean of
Students. The School Nurse, Head of Middle School, Upper School Dean of Students,
or designee, will make all contacts with parents/guardians regarding health services.
The student health services program shall not include diagnosis of illness, treatment
or administration of medications without written physician and parental/guardian
authorization.
Health Records
Student health information is confidential and disclosed only on a need-to-know basis.
The school nurse and/or designee maintains student health records and will contact
parents, as needed, for clarification of a health concern. Parents are encouraged to
contact the school nurse when any significant changes occur in their student’s health
during the course of the school year. The school nurse, on occasion, may find it
necessary to contact the student’s physician or health care provider to clarify a diagnosis,
immunization date, medication order or instruction regarding health-related school
accommodations.
Physicals
New Students: Westminster requires that all new students have a physical examination
and proof of immunization record submitted before June 15, 2013. The physical must
be done on or after February 1, 2013. New students will not be permitted to try out or
participate in sports/P.E. until cleared by his or her physician.
Middle School Students: As noted above, Westminster requires all new 7th and 8th grade
students to have a physical examination dated on or after February 1, 2013.
Returning 8th grade students are not required to have a physical. However, physicals
are strongly recommended for 8th grade students participating in sports and physical
education.
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Upper School Students: Westminster and MSHSAA (Missouri State High School
Activities Association) require that all upper school student athletes have a physical
examination submitted before August 1, 2013 for fall sports or the tryout date of a winter/
spring sport. The physical must be done on or after February 1, 2013. Students will not
be permitted to tryout or participate until cleared by his or her physician. Please use the
MSHSAA Pre-Participation form. It contains vital information and the required signatures
that are needed for upper school student athletic participation.
All Students: Westminster requires all students/parents to complete the Student Health
Inventory and Emergency Field Trip Permission Form annually. The 2013-14 forms will be
available online in late summer 2013.
Immunizations
It is the policy of Westminster that all students attending the school be in compliance with
state laws and regulations relative to required immunizations. The parents or guardians of
each student entering the school shall furnish satisfactory proof that the student has been
adequately immunized or that the immunization process has begun. Documentation must
include month, day, and year from a recognized health care provider. It is unlawful for any
student to attend school unless the student has been satisfactorily immunized or unless
the parents/guardians have signed and placed on file with the School Nurse a statement
of exemption. Failure to comply with this legal requirement may result in the student’s
exclusion from school until proof of compliance has been met.
The 2013-14 Missouri School Immunization Requirements are as follows:
• DTaP/DTP/DT: Minimum of 4 doses; last dose on or after fourth (4th) birthday and
last dose of pediatric pertussis before seventh (7th) birthday.
• Tdap: Contains pertussis vaccine, is required for students enrolled in eighth (8th),
ninth (9th), tenth (10th), and eleventh (11th) grades who have completed the
recommended child hood DTP/DTaP/DT series and who have not received a Td
booster within the past two (2) years. Grade 12 requires a Tdap or Td booster ten (10)
years after the last dose of DTaP, DTP or DT. Tdap may be given at any time in the
event of a pertussis outbreak situation.
• Polio (OPV/IPV): Minimum of 3 doses; last dose on or after fourth (4th) birthday.
• MMR- 2 doses on or after first (1st) birthday; minimum 28 days between doses.
• Hepatitis B: 3 doses
• Varicella: One dose required for seventh (7th) and eighth (8th) grades or satisfactory
evidence of disease (written statement of month and year).
Medication
Pursuant to Westminster policy, the giving of prescription and nonprescription medicine
by the school nurse or designee shall be restricted to necessary medication that cannot be
given on an alternative schedule. Students are not permitted to keep medication in their
lockers or on their person. This includes vitamins and nutritional supplements. However,
students who have written physician orders for MDI’s (metered dose inhalers), EpiPens,
and Insulin and whose parents authorize and acknowledge their students demonstrated
proficiency in administration, may self medicate.
All medication to be administered at school requires written orders from the prescribing physician
along with written authorization from the parent/guardian for the current school year. Parents should
contact the School Nurse to obtain a Westminster medication form, which details this policy. This
authorization is effective for the school year for which it is granted and must be renewed annually.
35
In addition, no prescription medication will be given from an improperly labeled or
outdated container. Changes to any prescription during the school year, requires written
orders from the physician clearly stating the change. The container must match the written
order. Your pharmacist will gladly provide a duplicate labeled container specifically for the
medication that is to be administered at school.
As a courtesy, the School Nurse keeps acetaminophen, ibuprofen and TUMS in stock for
treatment of minor complaints of discomfort. Written permission to administer these
medications must be granted by the parent or guardian on the Student Health Inventory
and Field Trip Permission Form at the beginning of each school year. This courtesy is
limited. Parents will be asked to provide medication if their student’s needs dictate. Overthe-counter cough, cold and allergy medications are not available to students. Parents are
encouraged to consult the School Nurse if these are needed during the school day.
The School Nurse reserves the right to determine whether medication requested by a
student or parent, is necessary, and assess each need accordingly. The School Nurse shall
not administer the first dose of any new medication ordered by a physician.
Illness
Per the American Academy of Pediatrics, an oral temperature of 100.4 is considered a
fever. Therefore, a student should not attend school or school-sponsored event with this
temperature or above. In addition, students should remain home until they are fever
free for 24 hours without the use of acetaminophen, ibuprofen or other fever reducing
medication. Students with acute gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting and/or diarrhea),
persistent cough/respiratory distress or rash of unknown origin should also remain home
until symptoms subside. At the discretion of the School Nurse, students may be sent home
when there is evidence of illness and reason to believe the student is potentially contagious.
Students who become ill during the school day should be seen by the School Nurse.
Students who wish to go home may contact their parents from the nurse’s office to make
arrangements for dismissal. At her discretion, the School Nurse may send a student home
based on presenting symptoms. Parents will be contacted by the nurse so arrangements can
be made. In the event of a medical emergency, EMS (911) will be called for any student
experiencing life threatening symptoms.
If your student will be absent due to illness, please contact the appropriate school office
(Upper School – 997-2901, Ext. 6121; Middle School - 997-2901, Ext. 6150) to report the
absence. If your student is hospitalized, has an extended illness (three or more days), or is
diagnosed with a potentially contagious/infectious disease (influenza, mono, strep throat,
shingles, chicken pox, etc.), contact the School Nurse (997-2901, Ext. 6180) in addition
to the attendance hotline. A physician’s note is requested upon student’s return, which
states the diagnosis, any classroom accommodations needed and/or the anticipated date
of return. Parents of upper school students are encouraged to contact the Upper School
Administrative Assistant to make arrangements for assignments when there is prolonged
absence due to health reasons.
Westminster will implement reporting and disease outbreak control measures in accordance
with the provisions of Missouri Department of Health publication PACH-16, “Prevention
and Control of Communicable Diseases: A Guide for School Administrators, 36 Nurses,
Teachers and Day Care Operators,” a copy of which is kept on file in the nurse’s office.
36
Accidents/Injuries
The School Nurse, Athletic Trainer or designee will notify a parent or guardian when a
student sustains a significant injury during the normal school day. Lacerations, soft tissue
injuries, minor head injuries, etc., will be initially treated by the school nurse, athletic
trainer or designee and when necessary, a recommendation or referral for physician care
will be made. It is at the parent/guardian’s discretion whether or not to seek additional
medical care for their student.
If a student requires classroom accommodations (wheelchair, crutches, splint, ice/heat
application, medication, etc.) or has P.E. restrictions for more than three (3) days, a
physician’s note is required stating such and the duration for which it will be needed. The
school nurse will communicate these accommodations to the student’s respective teachers
and the appropriate school personnel.
Students enrolled in physical education class are expected to dress out and participate daily.
Parents must provide a written note to the P.E. teacher/coach, the day of, if their child is
unable to participate due to illness or injury.
An athletic trainer is available each day after school to address the needs of Upper School
student athletes. The athletic trainer and school nurse collaborate daily to provide for the
safety and well-being of each student athlete. Injuries or illness, which sideline a student
from practice or competition, must be communicated to the athletic trainer (Upper School)
or School Nurse (Middle School) and coach. When appropriate, a return to competition/
participation form, completed by the student’s physician, may be necessary before the
student athlete is permitted to resume activity.
Please note the Westminster athletic policy regarding concussions (see Athletic
Handbook) and pertaining changes to the MSHSAA Pre-Participation Form. These
guidelines and protocols will apply to any upper or middle school student who is
suspected of or has been diagnosed with a concussion. In either case, Westminster
requires a physician’s note stating when the student may return to competition or
physical activity.
Student Insurance
Students participating in MSHSAA sports, cocurricular sports, field trip events, summer
camps, summer seminar or other school-related trips will be required to have proof of
health and/or basic accident insurance coverage.
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SECTION 6
Business & Finance
IN THIS SECTION
• Fees
• Financial Policies/Payment Plans
Fees
The fee and tuition schedule will be established annually by the School Board and will be
communicated along with tuition information. Westminster fees include:
• Application Fee—$50 (new students only): This fee must accompany the application
form of all new students and is nonrefundable.
• Registration Deposit—$250 (returning families)/$500 (new families): The registration
deposit is required for each student and must accompany the registration form. This
deposit is part of the total tuition and is nonrefundable after May 1.
• Student Activity Fee—$100 (all students): This fee covers the cost of the school
newspaper, the school yearbook, and field trip transportation for each student.
• Graduation Fee—$100 (seniors only): The graduation fee helps cover the costs
involved in graduation.
• Parking Fee—$50: All students who drive to school and park on school property are
required to purchase and display a Westminster parking permit. Failure to do so will
result in fines and/or loss of parking privileges on campus.
• Lock Fee—$10: Students who wish to lock their lockers must use a combination lock
provided by the Upper or Middle School Office. This fee must be paid upon receipt
of the lock. At the end of the school year, $5 will be refunded if the lock is returned to
the Upper or Middle School Office.
Financial Policies/Payment Plans
By signing a financial commitment with Westminster Christian Academy, families enter
into a covenant with the school and are expected to follow through with payments
on a timely, consistent basis. Prepaid full and semester payments are most helpful to
Westminster. Tuition statements will be mailed in June. A family can choose from one of
the following three payment plans:
• Prepaid Tuition: Tuition may be paid in full in a single payment. Families that pay
their tuition in full by June 30 will receive a $350 discount. Families that pay their
tuition in full on or before the first day of school will receive a $175 discount.
• Semester Payments: Two equal payments due July 1 and January 1.
• Ten Payments: Ten equal payments due the first of each month. The first payment
will be due July 1, with the final payment due April 1. A $25 late fee will be assessed
if payment is not received during the month that payment is due. Late fees will not be
waived.
If a student withdraws after June 1, 2013, but before school begins, the parents will be
responsible for paying the full tuition for the first quarter ($3,475). If a student leaves for
any reason after classes have begun, parents are still responsible for paying the full tuition
for that quarter.
38
The following conditions will apply to families whose parents/guardians have an
outstanding financial obligation (tuition, fees or fines) that is more than 30 days
delinquent:
• No transcripts will be provided on behalf of their student(s).
• Their students will not be permitted to sign-up for any school sponsored trip that is
not a part of a class in which they are currently enrolled (e.g., summer seminar, foreign
language immersion trip, baseball team spring break trip).
• Their students will not be permitted to attend Westminster Christian Academy
beginning on the first day of the next semester.
• These families will only be able to re-enroll existing students and/or enroll new
students on a provisional basis until the account is brought current.
• Financial aid for future school years will not be awarded until account is brought
current.
These conditions will remain in effect until the account is brought up to date, or until
special arrangements are made with the Finance Committee. Payment to release transcripts
must be made in cash, money order or cashier’s check. Otherwise, a 14-day hold will be
placed on your student’s transcript.
Families with outstanding financial obligations (including tuition, fees, or other bills) to
Westminster Christian Academy on the last day of school will not receive final grades,
transcripts or a diploma (in the case of graduating seniors) until balances are paid in full.
On June 1, a five percent (5%) late fee will be assessed on any outstanding balance and
your child will be withdrawn from Westminster. A one percent (1%) late fee will be assessed
on the 1st of each month thereafter.
The Board of Westminster Christian Academy is committed to helping make Christian
education affordable for families who lack the financial ability to afford such schooling.
The Board has established a significant, though limited, financial aid budget for this
purpose. Recognizing that it is the responsibility of a student’s family to finance private
school education, we ask that applicants examine their budget and lifestyle to determine
areas in which funds may be available to meet this obligation before applying for financial
aid. Financial aid is awarded on the basis of demonstrated financial need.
You may apply online at www.wcastl.org/admissions/financial.php. All financial aid
applications must be submitted by January 1. Award decisions are mailed to applicants with
completed applications in April. Financial aid is awarded on a nondiscriminatory basis
without regard to race, color, creed or gender.
Returned Checks
If your bank account has insufficient funds to cover a draft or check written to Westminster
Christian Academy, your account will be charged $35 to cover the cost of the return
item processing. If the school experiences multiple returned checks for payments on your
account (more than three return items in any school year), the school may require all future
payments to be made with official checks, certified checks or money orders.
39
SECTION 7
Athletic Policies
IN THIS SECTION
• Ten Pillars for Wildcat Athletics
• Purpose
• Eligibility Standards
• General Athletic Policies
• Guidelines for Team Selection
Ten Pillars for Wildcat Athletics
All members of the Westminster Christian Academy athletic program will be committed to
upholding the following pillars for athletic success:
• Honor Jesus Christ in all things. This is the most important measure of our success.
• Christian character defines who we are. God-honoring behavior, good sportsmanship,
and avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are required.
• Good grades and conduct lead the way. Successful athletes must be successful
students.
• “We” before “me.” What is best for the team always comes first.
• We will run the race to win. Competing at the highest possible level is the goal.
• We are in this together. Student athletes, coaches, and parents are all on the same page.
• Commitments are paramount. Showing up and honoring your word is the norm.
• We will grow and improve in and out of season. Getting better demands hard work.
• Supporting other players and teams is expected. We all share Wildcat pride.
• Positive attitudes will influence outcomes. Passion, enthusiasm, and energy will drive us.
Purpose of Athletic Program
We believe that interscholastic athletics at Westminster Christian Academy are an integral
part of the total curriculum offered to students. Westminster is dedicated to providing a
Christ-centered education that enables students to discover and embrace a biblical view of
the world and integrate that view into every area of life. Our athletic program supports the
mission of the school by teaching the Christian way of competing and the Christian way of
life. Our teams must participate in such a way that we honor our God and convey a positive
witness to those around us. The ideals of sportsmanship, fair play, teamwork, positive
attitudes, and dedication should be exemplified by our teams, and will hopefully be carried
on throughout the life of the participants.
Westminster is committed to athletics that develop a perspective on both winning and
losing consistent with the will of God. We need athletes who will dedicate themselves to
this challenge. The challenge is very great in a sports world that all too often emphasizes
winning at any cost. Winning should be one of our goals, but losing can often provide
beneficial learning. To this end, Westminster strives for excellence in all athletic endeavors
but the win-loss record will not be the primary barometer of excellence. Successful
Christian education results in the development of a balanced lifestyle in the physical,
mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of our total being.
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“In everything you do, put God first and He will direct you and crown your efforts with
success.” Proverbs 3:16
Upper School
The upper school interscholastic athletic program provides opportunities for students to
participate at a high level of play in the Missouri State High School Activities Association
(MSHSAA). The most qualified students are selected in order to field highly competitive
sports teams. Students are required to demonstrate a willingness to sacrifice time, give an
intense effort, and place the team above self-interest. When appropriate, alternatives in
sports education will be emphasized, such as physical education, sports clubs, or other cocurricular activities.
Middle School
Middle school interscholastic athletics provides a program that allows students to
participate in various sports at developmentally appropriate levels.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not men, since
you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord
Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24)
In essence, athletics is a form of worship, a celebration of life in Christ. Participants are
accountable to God for their attitude and actions.
Upper School Athletic Eligibility Standards
Westminster is mandated by the MSHSAA to follow certain standards. Schools have the
freedom to add to these minimum standards:
• Students must be credible upper school students enrolled in courses that offer 3.0
units of credit and must have earned 3.0 units of credit the preceding semester
(MSHSAA standard for athletes, cheerleaders and dance.)
• Students cannot compete in any sport for more than four seasons or in any but the
first eight semesters they are enrolled in upper school.
• Students must enter school within the first 11 days of the semester to be eligible to
play that semester.
• Students must not accept an award for competing in any sport except the awards
approved by Westminster.
• Upper School students who reach their 19th birthday prior to July 1 will be ineligible
for further competition the succeeding year.
• During the sport season in which students represent their school by competing in
an interscholastic athletic contest, they cannot compete as a member of a non-school
team or competition in that same sport.
• Students may not practice or compete in a non-school competition of a different sport
on the same date they practice or compete for the school without approval in advance
by the athletic director.
• If students transfer schools, they are ineligible for varsity play for 365 days from the
date of transfer unless there is a corresponding parental change of residence out of the
present school’s boundary or unless they meet other exceptions to this rule. In such
cases, a student may be eligible to participate on a sub-varsity team. Hardship cases
will be considered by the MSHSAA.
• Transferring from one school to another because of the influence by any person to
play sports will cause the student to be ineligible for one full year.
• Students shall not attend a specialized athletic camp involving a fall season sport
after July 31 of that school year. There is no restriction on the number of non-school
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summer specialized athletic camps. There are restrictions for non-school sponsored
clinics and tryouts during the school year. Consult the athletic director for specific
information.
• Students are required to have the following before they can practice for a sports team,
cheerleading, or dance squads:
a. Positive physical exam dated on or after February 1 of the previous school year.
b. Insurance and medical doctor information.
c. Parental permission to participate and parental authorization of medical treatment.
Middle School Athletic Eligibility Standards
The Middle School is not regulated by the Missouri State High School Activities
Association. The following standards apply to determining eligibility for middle school
athletics:
• Students must be credible middle school students currently enrolled and regularly
attending the normal courses for their grade level.
• Students must maintain a 1.5 grade point average (Westminster standard).
• Students are required to have the following before they can practice for any
Westminster team, cheerleading, or dance squads:
a. Positive physical exam dated on or after February 1 of the previous school year.
b. Insurance and medical doctor information.
c. Parental permission for participation and parental authorization to obtain medical
treatment.
All of the above requirements are satisfied by completion of the MSHSAA Participation
Certificate prior to the first day of practice. These are available in the Middle School Office
or the Athletic Director’s office.
This is only a partial list of standards and represents the most common questions asked
by parents. The athletic director or Head of School will interpret the standards for special
cases.
Guidelines for Team Selection & Playing Time
It is the responsibility of each coach to set and communicate criteria for selection of players
for their teams. Such criteria may include the following.
• Christ-like attitudes.
• Team relationships and sportsmanship.
• Coachability.
• Fundamental skills.
• Knowledge of the game.
• Statistics from past seasons.
• Height and weight.
• Physical fitness level.
• Enthusiasm and willingness to work hard.
• Dedication and responsibility to the team.
• Academic progress.
• Year in school.
Coaches have the freedom to add criteria that would be helpful in choosing players for
their team. Again, these should be communicated to those trying out for the team.
It is the responsibility of athletes and parents to respect and support the final selection of
a team. This is an emotional and difficult time for all involved. The coaches spend a great
deal of time observing, evaluating, and prayerfully selecting their teams. Athletes should do
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their very best and accept the decisions of the coaches.
Athletes should note that playing time varies for each level of competition. There is a
progression that coaches follow to help build a successful athletic program. Generally,
playing time for middle school athletics is more equal among all athletes because the
primary focus here is to develop skill. Playing time becomes less equal as one moves from
sub-varsity to varsity upper school teams, due primarily to the competitive nature of these
activities. As with team selection, it is the athletes’ and parents’ responsibility to respect
and support the decisions the coaches make as to playing time.
Communication with Coaches
Proper communication with coaches is vital in maintaining a positive atmosphere on
our sports teams. Problems and complaints should be handled in keeping with Christ’s
teaching in Matthew 18: 15-17: “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his
fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But
if he will not listen, take one or two others along so that every matter may be established
by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the
church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or
a tax collector.” Student athletes are encouraged to speak to their coach as the first step
in resolving problems. Parents who perceive that their son or daughter is being treated
unfairly should communicate with the coach directly before anyone else is involved. Below
is a Communication Ladder that outlines the proper channel to follow when lodging a
complaint:
Board
Head of School
Head of Upper School
Athletic Director
Coach
Parents and/or Student
Athlete
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A
Academic Distinctions 21
Academic Hub 24
Accreditation/Recognition 5
Accidents/Injuries 37
Adding a Course 23
Assistance Directory 7
Association 5
Athletic Eligibility 41
Attendance & Absences 8
B
Behavior Contract 14
Board of Directors 5
Bookstore 10
Building & Grounds 10
C
Café 10
Change of Address 10
Chapel 21
Chronic Behavior 13
Classroom Expectations 26
College Counseling 24
Communication Ladder 43
Complaint 10
Counseling 24
D
Detention Hall 13
Discipline 11
Discipline Procedures 12
Dress Code 15
Dropping a Course 23
E
Excused Absences 8
Expulsion 14
F
Faculty & Staff 6
Family Trips 9
Fees 38
Financial Policies 38
G
Grading 31
Graduation Requirements 22
I
Illness 36
Immunizations 35
L
Leaving Campus 20
Library (see Academic Hub)
Lockers 17
Lost & Found 17
M
Medication 35
Mission Statement 4
Music Selection Guidelines 28
N
National Honor Society 32
P
Parent Organization (PAW) 6
Parent/Teacher Conferences 21
Payment Plans 38
Philosophy 4
Physical Education 25
Pillars of Wildcat Athletics 40
Pink Slips 13
Plagiarism 23
Pregnancy Policy 14
Promotion 23
R
Restrooms 18
Returned Checks 39
S
School Hours 17
Snow Announcements 18
Social Events 18
Standardized Dress Code 15
Standardized Testing 32
Student Council 30
Student Drivers 16
Student Insurance 37
Student Leadership 30
Student Parking 16
Student Records 30
Student Search & Seizure 19
Student Transportation 16
Suspension 14
H
Hall Passes 17
Health Records 34
Homework 26
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T
Tardiness 9
Telephones 19
Ten Pillars of Wildcat Athl. 40
Tests 26
Textbooks 18
Type A Behavior 11
Type B Behavior 12
U
Unexcused Absences 8
V
Visitors 19
W
Withdrawing 19