Parent Student Handbook

Quick Reference Guide for Parents


📅 Schedule

  • School Days: Monday–Thursday
  • Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Drop-off: 7:45–8:00 AM
  • Pick-up: by 3:15 PM

👕 Dress Code 

  • School t-shirt required
  • Clean jeans or pants
  • No inappropriate graphics
  • Shorts: fingertip length
  • Skirts/dresses:
    • With shorts underneath OR
    • Knee-length if worn alone

👉 Proper attire required for gym participation


🏃 Daily Gym Time

  • Approximately 1 hour daily
  • Shoes removed in gym
  • Safety rules must be followed

📱 Communication

  • All parents added to Signal group
  • Used for announcements and updates
  • Contact staff directly for personal concerns

📸 Photos & Communication

  • Photos shared in parent group chats
  • No public use without permission

🛡️ Safety

  • Incidents are documented
  • Parents notified as needed
  • Cameras used for safety review

📚 Attendance & Participation

  • Regular attendance expected
  • Participation is part of grading
  • Excessive absences may affect grades

💰 Tuition

  • Annual tuition: $7,500
  • Payment plans available
  • See full policy for details

🤝 Parent Partnership

  • Support school values
  • Reinforce expectations at home
  • Maintain respectful communication

Student Agreement


I understand that being a student at Foundation Christian Academy means I am part of a learning community built on respect, responsibility, and growth.

I agree to:

  • Show respect to teachers and classmates
  • Participate actively in class and discussions
  • Engage honestly in my work and interactions
  • Follow instructions from staff

I understand that:

  • My participation affects my learning and my grades
  • My behavior affects the learning environment for others
  • I am expected to take responsibility for my actions

I understand that I am not expected to be perfect, but I am expected to:
👉 Be teachable
👉 Be accountable
👉 Be willing to grow


Student Name: ___________________________

Student Signature: _______________________

Date: ___________________

Parent & Student Handbook – Full Text


1. Mission Statement

Partnering with parents to cultivate students rooted in Jesus, committed to justice, loving kindness, and prepared to walk humbly with their God.


2. Statement of Faith & Educational Philosophy

At Foundation Christian Academy, our teaching is grounded in the authority of Scripture and the core beliefs of historic evangelical Christianity. Biblical truth forms the foundation of all instruction. We seek to partner with families and ask that the home environment not be in direct opposition to the principles taught at school.


3. Academic Structure

  • Grades: 7–12
  • Schedule: Monday–Thursday
  • Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Focus:
    • Critical thinking
    • Writing and discussion
    • Christ-centered worldview

4. Daily Schedule & Attendance

  • Drop-off: 7:45–8:00 AM
  • School begins: 8:00 AM
  • Dismissal: 3:00 PM
  • Pick-up: by 3:15 PM

Students should not arrive early or be picked up late without prior arrangement.

5. Dress Code

Students are expected to dress in a way that is modest, appropriate, and practical for both classroom learning and physical activity. Because our program includes daily movement and gym participation, clothing should allow students to move safely and comfortably.

General Requirements

  • Students must wear a Foundation Christian Academy t-shirt during the school day
    • Four shirts will be provided
    • Additional shirts may be purchased
  • Students must wear jeans or pants that are:
    • Clean
    • In good repair (no excessive rips or tears)
  • Clothing, jackets, hats, and accessories must not display:
    • Vulgar, obscene, or offensive language or imagery

Shorts, Skirts, and Dresses

Because of the active nature of the school environment:

  • Shorts must be at least fingertip length
  • Skirts and dresses:
    • Are acceptable if worn with shorts underneath, OR
    • Must reach at least knee length if worn without shorts

Gym Participation Requirement

👉 Students who are not dressed appropriately for movement and activity will not be permitted to use gym equipment

This is both:

  • A modesty standard, and
  • A safety requirement

Final Discretion

The school reserves the right to determine whether attire is appropriate and may require students to adjust or change clothing if necessary.

6. Gym Use & Physical Activity

Foundation Christian Academy incorporates daily physical activity as part of the school experience. Students will typically have approximately one hour of open gym time each day.


Available Activities Include:

  • Trampolines
  • Gymnastics equipment
  • Foam pit
  • Ninja warrior course
  • Climbing ropes

All areas are equipped with appropriate safety mats and padding.


Safety Expectations

Students are expected to:

  • Remove shoes before entering the gym area
  • Follow all instructions given by staff
  • Use equipment only as directed
  • Act responsibly and avoid reckless behavior
  • Respect the safety of others at all times

Supervision

  • All gym activity will be supervised by staff
  • Students must remain within supervised areas
  • Failure to follow safety expectations may result in loss of gym privileges

Risk Acknowledgment

While all reasonable precautions are taken:

👉 Physical activity carries inherent risk

This includes:

  • Falls
  • Collisions
  • Equipment-related injuries

Participation in gym activities is understood to involve normal physical risk.


Parent Responsibilities

Parents are responsible for:

  • Informing the school of any medical conditions, injuries, or physical limitations
  • Providing guidance on any restrictions or accommodations needed
  • Updating the school if a student’s condition changes

Incident Reporting

  • Any injury or significant incident will be documented
  • Parents will be notified when appropriate

7. Health & Medication Policy

The health and safety of students is a priority, and clear communication between parents and staff is essential.


Medication

  • Students may take prescribed medication during the school day
  • If a student requires assistance or supervision:
    • Parents must notify staff in advance
    • Instructions for administration must be clearly provided

Medical Disclosure

Parents must inform the school of any:

  • Medical conditions
  • Allergies
  • Physical limitations
  • Ongoing treatments or concerns

This ensures that staff can respond appropriately in both routine and emergency situations.


Responsibility

  • The school will make reasonable efforts to support student health needs
  • However, primary responsibility for medical management remains with the parent

Emergency Situations

In the event of a medical emergency:

  • Staff will take appropriate immediate action
  • Parents will be contacted as soon as possible
  • Emergency services will be used when necessary

⚠️ Liability Waiver & Assumption of Risk


Participation in the programs and activities of Foundation Christian Academy includes involvement in physical activity within a gym facility. These activities may include, but are not limited to, the use of trampolines, gymnastics equipment, climbing structures, foam pits, and other physical training areas.

While the school takes reasonable precautions to provide a safe environment, parents and students acknowledge that participation in physical activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to falls, collisions, and other injuries.

By enrolling a student in Foundation Christian Academy, parents/guardians acknowledge and agree to the following:

  • They understand the nature of the physical activities offered and the risks involved
  • They accept that injuries may occur despite reasonable supervision and safety measures
  • They release Foundation Christian Academy, its staff, and the facility owners from liability for injuries resulting from normal participation in school activities, except in cases of gross negligence

Medical Responsibility

Parents/guardians affirm that:

  • They have disclosed all known medical conditions, injuries, or physical limitations that may affect participation
  • They will update the school if any medical condition changes
  • Their student is physically able to participate in school activities unless otherwise noted

Emergency Care

In the event of an injury or medical emergency:

  • School staff may take reasonable action to secure medical assistance
  • Emergency services may be contacted if necessary
  • Parents/guardians will be notified as soon as possible

Student Responsibility

Students are expected to:

  • Follow all safety instructions
  • Use equipment appropriately
  • Act in a manner that does not endanger themselves or others

Failure to follow safety expectations may result in restricted participation in physical activities.


Acknowledgment

By enrolling a student at Foundation Christian Academy, parents/guardians acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to this Liability Waiver and Assumption of Risk.


Parent/Guardian Signature: ___________________________


Date: ___________________


8. Discipline Policy

Philosophy of Discipline

At Foundation Christian Academy, discipline is not primarily punitive—it is formative.

Our goal is to:

  • Develop self-control and responsibility
  • Encourage truthful, respectful communication
  • Strengthen character consistent with Christian values

We believe students are capable of growth and should be guided toward maturity, not simply corrected for behavior.

Discipline is handled with:

  • Consistency
  • Clarity
  • Respect
  • A desire for restoration whenever possible

Role of Authority

Teachers and staff are responsible for maintaining a safe, focused, and respectful learning environment.

Students are expected to:

  • Respond appropriately to correction
  • Accept redirection without argument
  • Recognize that authority is exercised for the good of the whole class

Repeated resistance to authority is treated as a serious concern, as it undermines both learning and community.

Categories of Behavior

While each situation is handled individually, behaviors generally fall into the following categories:

Minor Disruptions

  • Talking out of turn
  • Lack of focus or engagement
  • Minor disrespect or inattentiveness

Moderate Concerns

  • Repeated disruption after correction
  • Refusal to participate
  • Disrespectful communication
  • Failure to follow instructions

Serious Concerns

  • Defiance of authority
  • Dishonesty
  • Behavior that disrupts the learning environment
  • Actions that put others at risk

Progressive Discipline Process

Discipline is typically handled in the following progression, though serious issues may move directly to higher levels.


Level 1: Redirection

  • Verbal correction or reminder
  • Clarification of expectations
  • Opportunity for immediate self-correction

Level 2: Student Conference

  • Private conversation with the student
  • Identification of the issue and expectations moving forward
  • Opportunity for the student to take ownership

Level 3: Parent Communication

  • Parent/guardian is notified
  • Concern is explained clearly
  • A plan for improvement may be established

Level 4: Formal Action

  • Written behavior notice
  • Required parent meeting
  • Possible temporary removal from class or activities

Level 5: Dismissal

In cases of:

  • Repeated or escalating behavior
  • Ongoing defiance or disruption
  • Behavior that compromises the integrity of the learning environment

The school reserves the right to dismiss a student.

Dismissal decisions are made carefully and with the goal of protecting the broader student body.


Participation and Engagement

Because participation is central to learning at Foundation Christian Academy:

  • Students who refuse to participate may face disciplinary consequences
  • Ongoing disengagement will impact both grades and standing in the program

Restoration and Growth

Whenever possible, discipline will aim to:

  • Restore relationships
  • Reinforce expectations
  • Encourage personal responsibility

Students will be given opportunities to:

  • Reflect on their behavior
  • Make corrections
  • Demonstrate growth

Parent Partnership in Discipline

Parents play a critical role in reinforcing expectations.

Parents are expected to:

  • Support school decisions regarding discipline
  • Reinforce expectations at home
  • Communicate openly and respectfully with staff

A unified approach between school and home is essential for student growth.

Final Authority

Foundation Christian Academy reserves the right to make final decisions regarding student discipline in order to preserve:

  • A safe environment
  • A respectful culture
  • A productive academic setting

9. Behavior Expectations

Students at Foundation Christian Academy are expected to contribute to a learning environment that is respectful, focused, and engaged. The following expectations help ensure that all students are able to learn and grow effectively.


Show Respect

Students must treat others with dignity and consideration in both words and actions.

This includes:

  • Speaking respectfully to teachers and classmates
  • Listening without interrupting
  • Disagreeing without being dismissive or unkind
  • Treating the facility and materials with care

Respect is not only about behavior, but also about attitude—students are expected to approach others with humility and a willingness to understand.


Participate Actively

Learning at Foundation Christian Academy is not passive. Students are expected to be active participants in their education.

This includes:

  • Contributing to class discussions
  • Asking thoughtful questions
  • Engaging with the material during lessons
  • Being mentally present and attentive

Students who are consistently disengaged limit not only their own growth, but also the learning environment for others.


Engage Honestly

Students are expected to approach their work and interactions with integrity.

This includes:

  • Completing their own work
  • Being truthful in discussions and assignments
  • Taking responsibility for mistakes
  • Avoiding shortcuts or dishonest practices

Honesty builds trust and is essential to both academic and personal growth.


Follow Instructions

Students must respond appropriately to direction from teachers and staff.

This includes:

  • Listening carefully to instructions
  • Beginning work promptly
  • Following classroom procedures
  • Responding respectfully when corrected

Following instructions is essential for maintaining order, safety, and a productive learning environment.


Guiding Principle

Students are not expected to be perfect, but they are expected to:
👉 Be teachable
👉 Be accountable
👉 Be willing to grow


10. Safety & Incident Reporting

The safety of students is a priority at Foundation Christian Academy. While every effort is made to maintain a safe environment, incidents may occur during the course of normal school activities.

  • Any incident resulting in injury or significant concern will be documented by school staff
  • Parents/guardians will be notified in a timely manner, depending on the nature and severity of the incident
  • Documentation will include a brief description of the event and any actions taken

This process helps ensure clear communication and appropriate follow-up when needed.


11. Video Monitoring

For the safety and accountability of students and staff, video cameras are present throughout the facility, including classroom and common areas.

  • Footage may be reviewed in the event of serious incidents, behavioral concerns, or safety questions
  • Recordings are typically retained for approximately three weeks, after which they may no longer be available
  • Requests to review footage will be handled at the discretion of the school

Video monitoring is used to support a safe and transparent environment, not for routine observation of student activity.


12. Communication

Clear and consistent communication is essential to the success of the school community.

  • All parents will be added to a Signal group communication thread
  • This platform will be used for:
    • General announcements
    • Schedule updates
    • Reminders and important information

Parents are expected to:

  • Monitor messages regularly
  • Stay informed about school communication

Direct or individual concerns should be addressed through personal communication with staff.


13. Media Permission

To help keep families connected to the school day, teachers may share photos and updates within the parent communication group.

By enrolling a student, parents grant permission for:

  • Student photographs to be shared in parent group communications
  • Classroom highlights and general school activities to be shared within that group

👉 These images will be used only for internal communication with families

  • No public use (such as website or social media) will occur without additional, explicit parental permission

14. Tuition & Refund Policy

Foundation Christian Academy operates on a tuition-based model that allows for consistent staffing, programming, and facility use.

  • Tuition rates and payment options are established annually.
  • Families are responsible for fulfilling tuition obligations as outlined in the Tuition Agreement.
  • A detailed Refund and Reimbursement Policy governs withdrawals, prorated tuition, and the handling of funds.

Parents are expected to review and understand these policies prior to enrollment. Full policy details are provided upon enrollment and are considered part of the contractual agreement between the school and the family.

15. Non-Discrimination Policy

Foundation Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, or other school-administered programs. 


16. Liability Statement

Participation in school activities at Foundation Christian Academy includes both classroom instruction and physical activity. While the school takes reasonable precautions to provide a safe and well-supervised environment, it is not possible to eliminate all risk.

Students may participate in activities that involve movement, physical exertion, and interaction with equipment or other students. As a result, there is an inherent risk of injury, including but not limited to falls, collisions, or other accidents.

By enrolling a student, parents/guardians acknowledge and accept that:

  • Participation in school activities involves normal and foreseeable risks
  • The school will exercise reasonable care and supervision, but cannot guarantee the prevention of all injuries
  • Students are expected to follow instructions and safety guidelines at all times

This statement is not intended to discourage participation, but to ensure that all families understand the nature of a school environment that includes active learning and physical activity.


17. Parent Partnership

At Foundation Christian Academy, we believe that education is most effective when there is a strong partnership between school and home. Students benefit most when expectations are consistent and communication is open and respectful.

Parents are expected to:

  • Support school values
    Encourage attitudes and behaviors at home that align with the school’s mission, including respect, responsibility, and integrity
  • Maintain communication
    Stay informed through school communication channels, respond when needed, and address questions or concerns directly with staff in a timely and respectful manner
  • Reinforce expectations at home
    Support academic effort, participation, and behavioral expectations, helping students take responsibility for their actions and growth

This partnership is not about perfection, but about shared commitment. When school and home work together, students are better equipped to grow both academically and personally.


18. Attendance Policy

At Foundation Christian Academy, we recognize the importance of both consistent instruction and strong family life. We seek to support families while also maintaining an environment where students can grow through regular participation in the classroom.

Regular attendance is essential for meaningful learning, particularly in a discussion-based environment where students benefit from daily interaction and engagement.

Families are encouraged to:

  • Schedule appointments and travel in a way that minimizes disruption to learning when possible
  • Communicate in advance regarding known absences, especially extended ones

When a student will be absent:

  • Planned absences (such as family travel) should be communicated ahead of time, and arrangements for schoolwork should be made in advance whenever possible
  • Unplanned absences should be communicated promptly, and missed work must be completed in a timely manner

While we understand that absences will occur, excessive or avoidable absences may result in a reduction in grades, particularly where participation and continuity of learning are affected.

Our goal is not to penalize families, but to ensure that students remain engaged and are able to fully benefit from the educational experience.


19. Grading Philosophy

At Foundation Christian Academy, grades are intended to reflect not only academic performance, but also engagement in the learning process.

Because our classrooms are built around discussion, critical thinking, and interaction, daily participation is a significant component of each student’s grade.

Students are expected to:

  • Engage thoughtfully in class discussions
  • Contribute ideas respectfully
  • Listen actively and respond appropriately
  • Complete assigned work with effort and integrity

Students who consistently choose not to participate will find it difficult to maintain strong grades, regardless of performance on written assignments or assessments.

Our goal is to encourage students to:

  • Take ownership of their learning
  • Develop confidence in expressing ideas
  • Engage meaningfully with both content and classmates

Learning is not passive, and our grading reflects that belief.

20. Amendments

The school reserves the right to update policies as needed.

Parent Agreement


By enrolling a student at Foundation Christian Academy, I acknowledge that I am entering into a partnership with the school and agree to support its mission, expectations, and policies.


1. Mission & Biblical Alignment

I understand that Foundation Christian Academy is a Christ-centered school grounded in the authority of Scripture and historic evangelical Christian teaching.

I recognize that all instruction will be presented through a biblical worldview and that spiritual and moral topics will be addressed as part of the learning process. I agree to support the mission of the school and will not knowingly place my student in opposition to the teachings and values presented in the classroom.


2. Partnership in Student Growth

I understand that the school seeks to develop students both academically and in character.

I agree to:

  • Support expectations for respectful behavior, effort, and participation
  • Encourage my student to take ownership of their learning
  • Work in cooperation with staff when concerns arise

I understand that student growth is most effective when school and home are aligned in expectations and support.


3. Discipline Support

I understand that discipline at Foundation Christian Academy is handled in a structured and thoughtful manner, with the goal of growth and restoration.

I agree to:

  • Support school decisions regarding discipline
  • Address concerns respectfully and directly with staff
  • Reinforce expectations at home

I understand that a unified approach between school and home is essential to maintaining a healthy learning environment.


4. Attendance & Participation

I understand that:

  • Regular attendance is essential for consistent learning
  • Classroom participation is a significant part of student success

I agree to:

  • Communicate absences in a timely manner
  • Avoid unnecessary absences when possible
  • Ensure my student completes missed work

I understand that excessive or avoidable absences may impact my student’s academic progress and grades.


5. Dress Code & Daily Expectations

I understand that students are expected to follow the school dress code and daily expectations in order to maintain a focused and appropriate learning environment.

I agree to:

  • Ensure my student arrives appropriately dressed
  • Support the school’s standards for modesty, safety, and practicality
  • Address concerns regarding attire promptly if notified by staff

6. Gym Participation & Physical Activity

I understand that:

  • Students will participate in daily physical activity
  • Activities include the use of gym equipment such as trampolines, climbing structures, and other athletic equipment
  • Physical activity involves inherent risk

I agree to:

  • Inform the school of any medical or physical limitations
  • Provide guidance regarding safe participation
  • Accept the risks associated with normal participation

7. Health & Medical Responsibility

I agree to:

  • Disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or physical limitations that may affect my student
  • Provide clear instructions if medication or supervision is required
  • Keep the school informed of any changes in my student’s health

I understand that clear communication is essential for ensuring student safety and well-being.


8. Communication

I understand that:

  • Communication will primarily take place through a Signal group
  • This will include announcements, updates, and important reminders

I agree to:

  • Monitor school communication regularly
  • Stay informed about school expectations and events
  • Communicate directly with staff regarding individual concerns rather than using group communication channels

9. Media & Communication Permission

I grant permission for:

  • My student’s photographs to be shared within parent communication groups
  • Classroom highlights and general school activities to be shared internally

I understand that:

  • These images are used to keep families informed and connected
  • No public use will occur without additional, explicit permission

10. Financial Commitment

I understand that enrollment represents a financial commitment for the academic year.

I agree to:

  • Fulfill tuition obligations as outlined in the Tuition Agreement
  • Abide by the Tuition, Refund, and Reimbursement Policy
  • Communicate promptly if financial concerns arise

11. Safety, Incident Reporting & Video Monitoring

I understand that:

  • Incidents involving injury or significant concern will be documented
  • Parents will be notified as appropriate
  • Video monitoring is used to support safety and accountability

I agree to:

  • Trust the school’s process in handling incidents
  • Communicate concerns in a timely manner when questions arise

12. Final Authority

I understand that Foundation Christian Academy reserves the right to make final decisions regarding:

  • Student discipline
  • Safety procedures
  • School operations

These decisions are made in order to preserve a safe, respectful, and effective learning environment for all students.


13. Agreement

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to the policies and expectations outlined in the Parent & Student Handbook and this Parent Agreement.


Parent/Guardian Name: ___________________________

Signature: _____________________________________

Date: ___________________